were in the dark until earlier this week, as Ausgrid staff worked around the clock to restore power.
Communication was effectively cut off for the first 24 hours as mobile communications networks were also affected by the storm damage and power loss, leaving residents, workers and businesses without phones or access to email or messaging services.
Some areas were without water, with some of Hunter Water’s pump stations offline. By the following morning, the SES unit for Port Stephens had received more than 100 calls for aid - which increased to 320 by Saturday evening.
CONTINUED Pages 4-5
HUNTER’S HEROES
By Thomas O’KEEFE
q Ausgrid staff work to restore power to Port Stephens homes. Photo: supplied.
YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED PORT STEPHENS NEWSPAPER
Emergency services stretched thin with storm response
FROM Page 1
While many enjoyed a spectacular lighting show during the power blackouts on the night of Wednesday 16 January, trees fell to block the only road in and out of several towns, while floodwaters inundated many other roads, keeping State Emergency Service (SES), Rural Fire Service (RFS), Police and Ambulance workers very busy for several days.
In Stroud, farm owners were forced to leave their vehicles on the far side of creeks or rivers, and seek more sturdy assistance to make the crossing home, while the town itself suffered flooding from the Karuah River breaching its banks.
Along the Lower Myall, particularly high tides coincided with the storm surge to flood the Tea Gardens riverfront.
Bulahdelah suffered
water over roads in numerous spots, made more dangerous by fallen power lines, with further flooding around Stroud, Booral, Girvan, Washpool and virtually everywhere in between.
The Pacific Highway was host to several motor vehicle accidents in the pounding rain and flash flooding.
Pindimar, Bundabah and North Arm Cove residents were left in the dark for days, while their resident RFS brigades did their best to
clear fallen trees all over the villages.
Karuah and Raymond Terrace were also left without power for extended periods, on top of failed telecommunications infrastructure.
“Many motorists were diverting off the highway before Bulahdelah, following outdated information on otherwise trusted traffic apps, many ended up in trouble on a flooded Booral Rd, or Bucketts Way, and SES was caused to go up those roads, too,” Stroud SES Deputy Commander Greg Snape informed NOTA.
“The message is simple: drive for the conditions, and think about what you have to do, and do you have to do it?
“Also, if you see debris in the water, don’t walk or drive through it.
“Over 10 days the [Stroud] SES received 36 calls for incidents, and two road crash rescue activations with one extrication performed.
“One medical evacuation of an injured camper from Coachwood Campground, which became a fivehour drive for two teams commencing at 8.30pm, saw multiple trees down blocking roads, roads cut by flooding, torrential rain and thick fog hampering access to the site.”
There was another recovery of a mother and son a week previously in the same area, with trees down blocking roads; their vehicle had become stuck in a dish drain, presenting a very challenging nighttime operation for the SES team.
“Thanks to the MidCoast Council crews for their help along Bucketts and Myall Ways, Booral Road, and with trees down and roof damage on properties in North Arm Cove, Hawks Nest and other areas,” Deputy Commander Snape said.
“During this event we delivered a two day training course to four of our members and their new skills were immediately used to assist in delivery of service to our community.”
Alterations/additions to dwelling TANILBA BAY
DA NO: 16-2024-611 1
DEVELOPMENT SITE: LOT: 14 DP: 1177850 1107 Swan Bay Road SWAN BAY
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: Tourist and visitor accommodation (34 cabins)
APPLICANT: MATILDA MUNN
CONSENT AUTHORITY: Port Stephens Council
1 Peace Pde; 3 Peace Pde 16-2021-665-3 S4.55(1A) Modification to 1 into 2 lot Torrens Title subdivision, construct dwelling – amend building design, remove right of carriageway
NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 14 Days (16/01/2025 – 30/01/2025)
SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 30/01/2025
in any format (including video or audio), which can be sent via email and is less than 10mb in size. PO BOX 42 Raymond Terrace NSW 2324 Email council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
q This uprooted tree (left) had fallen across the Myall Way, blocking traffic in both directions on the only road in and out of Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest.
q One of many flooded roads blocking a medical evacuation, this one at Main Creek Road, Carowiry Creek, Monkerai. Photo: Stroud SES.
q SES Water Rescue Operators negotiate fallen limbs and sunken obstacles to save those in distress. Photo: Stroud SES.
Disaster support for Port Stephens after storms
SUPPORT is available in the Port Stephens local government area (LGA) following severe thunderstorms and intense rainfall that impacted the region last week.
Assistance measures that may be provided to communities through the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) include:
• Support for eligible residents to help meet immediate needs like emergency accommodation.
• Grants for low income, uninsured residents to replace lost essential household items to maintain basic standard of living.
• Grants for low income, uninsured residents to undertake essential structural repairs to restore their homes to a safe and habitable condition.
• Support for affected local councils and other agencies to help with the costs of cleaning up, keeping the community safe and restoring damaged essential public assets.
• Concessional interest rate loans for small businesses, primary producers, and nonprofit organisations and grants to sporting and recreation clubs to repair or replace damaged or destroyed property.
• Freight subsidies for primary producers to help transport livestock and fodder.
Further information on disaster assistance can be found on the Australian Government’s Disaster Assist website at www. disasterassist.gov.au.
Residents in stormaffected areas across the Hunter can also now dispose of damaged items and storm
debris at the tip without paying the waste levy.
The NSW Government has waived the waste levy fee for six weeks to support communities impacted by recent severe thunderstorms as they rebuild and recover.
The Natural Disaster Waste Levy Exemption now applies to the following additional Local Government Areas: Upper Hunter; MidCoast, Muswellbrook, Dungog, Singleton, Cessnock, Maitland and Port Stephens.
This assistance aims to speed up recovery efforts and reduce financial pressures on households and businesses.
The exemption is backdated to 15 January 2025 and will remain in place until 28 February 2025.
Requests for extensions will be considered on a caseby-case basis.
The waiver covers stormrelated waste on public and private land, including damaged building materials, furniture, carpet, garden
debris, food waste and other items.
Landfill operators may still charge their landfill operation charge also known as the gate fee or tip fee.
Cabana compliance crackdown
PORT Stephens Council is running an educational compliance campaign over the Australia Day long weekend from 25 to 27 January, targeting unattended items such as cabanas being used to reserve spots at popular beaches.
Mayor Leah Anderson acknowledged the significant community feedback about cabanas being left on Port Stephens beaches for days at a time during the holiday period.
“Our beaches are one of our greatest assets, available
q Unattended items left in public places can be reported to Council Rangers who will investigate and may take enforcement action if needed.
for everyone to enjoy, but over the past few weeks it’s been disappointing to hear that families and locals are finding it impossible to secure a spot due to unattended cabanas being left overnight or for multiple days,” Mayor Anderson said.
“Personal items, especially large items like cabanas, shouldn’t be left unattended in public spaces for extended periods.”
Unattended items left in public places can be reported to Council Rangers who will investigate and may take
Ausgrid is also offering a $250 payout to cover costs of spoilage related to power outages.
enforcement action if needed.
“In response to this feedback, our Rangers will be increasing their presence at Fly Point, Little Beach and Shoal Bay over the Australia Day weekend, trialling an educational and compliance initiative,” Mayor Anderson said.
“With a busy Australia Day long weekend expected in Port Stephens, we want everyone to enjoy our stunning beaches fairly.”
Unattended property compliance action
As part of the trial, signage will be installed at key locations, posters will be displayed at key tourist attractions and accommodation providers, and surrounding businesses will be notified via email.
During this trial, obvious unattended items such as cabanas will be packed down by Council Rangers and moved to a general nearby location and marked as “unattended” under the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021.
“While most people respectfully share our public spaces, we’re listening to community concerns,” Mayor Anderson added.
Delegated Rangers will place a sticker on the item notifying the owner of the items as being “unattended” as required under the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act 2021. If Council were to “take possession” of the item, it would need to be notified. This is done via an “Unattended Items” sticker.
Legislation allows the notification of “unattended items” and following a period of seven days and be taken into possession and disposed of if the value is under $200. Items that are left in a position that may be in a position causing health and safety risk to those within the vicinity may be moved, to mitigate the health and safety risks.
Authorised by the Australian Government, Canberra
q Water over Glenelg Street, Raymond Terrace. Photo: Joseph Richards.
q Cabanas erected at Fly Point in early January.
Simon EKINS 0434 890 157 simon@newsofthearea.com.au
Lindsay HALL 0430 048 398 lindsay@newsofthearea.com.au
Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au
The NSW Government officially declared Port Stephens a disaster zone, given the high number of people adversely affected by the storms.
Fire and Rescue NSW teams along with Rural Fire Service teams were also deployed to assist with the emergency response.
On Sunday, locations were set up across the region for storm-affected residents to access a free hot meal, BBQ or hot shower.
Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson highlighted the involvement of community-based groups of volunteers.
“It's been heartwarming to see the community come together to help those affected by power outages and disrupted services,” she said.
“I'd like to thank local community groups including the Salvation Army, New Life Community Relief, Medowie and Tilligerry Peninsula Lion Clubs and the Raymond Terrace Community Church.
”These groups and volunteers provided hot meals and phones and device charging stations over the weekend, making a difference for so many.
“A special thanks goes to the SES and Ausgrid crews who worked tirelessly to respond to community needs and restore power across our towns and villages.
“I'd also like to
acknowledge the hard work of Council staff who have supported emergency teams, cleaning up public spaces, organising free green waste and food disposal days and keeping our community informed with up to date information.”
Councillors Mark Watson, Chris Doohan and Ben Niland joined the volunteers from New Life Community
Relief - a church based group committed to providing housing, food and essential services for families in need - at Karuah on Saturday, 18 January.
Cr Nathan Errington was delighted by accounts of community members taking care of one another.
“As we have seen over the last few days, our community has demonstrated incredible resilience and solidarity,” he said.
“Neighbors are coming
Cr Watson was quick to praise the efforts of the community along with council staff, in particular General Manager Tim Crosdale, for his persistent efforts to keep councillors and staff up-to-date with information as it was released.
q Port Stephens Councillors Chris Doohan, Ben Niland and Mark Watson with volunteers from the New Life Community Relief Group at Karuah on Saturday
q Dunmore Bridge, Woodville.
Photo: Joseph Richards.
q Ausgrid staff work to restore power to Port Stephens homes. Photo: supplied.
thousands in the dark
together, hosting BBQs, providing charging stations for phones, and offering showers to those in need.
“These acts of kindness truly highlight the strength of our community spirit during challenging times.
“While it is reassuring that the government has officially declared this a National Disaster, I firmly believe that more relief and support should be forthcoming to help those affected.
“Our community has done its part, but further assistance is critical to ensuring a swift and comprehensive recovery.”
Reflecting on the work done by specialist teams, Cr Giacomo Arnott said, "I want to thank all of the emergency services who have been out there for days now, keeping people safe and helping return our community to normal. From our professional firies at
Fire and Rescue NSW, NSW Police and NSW Ambulance, to the volunteers at the RFS and SES, to the hard-working Ausgrid employees - thank you.
“These kinds of storm events test us all, and our ability to come together as a community and get each other to the other side of it is admirable.”
Cr Ben Niland also offered his gratitude while appealing to the community for patience.
“It makes me proud to see the community spirit out there - people, businesses, community organisations and the Council - helping others in their time of need with showers, hot meals, charging devices and so on.”
Cr Paul Le Mottee, who is currently holidaying in Europe, has been kept appraised of the situation and has likewise offered his thanks to local emergency services.
q The Port Stephens SES crew had a busy few days. Photo: supplied.
q Flooding on Newline Road, which runs from Raymond Terrace to Seaham. Photo: Joseph Richards.
q Williams River at Seaham.
Photo: Joseph Richards.
q The Hunter River at Raymond Terrace. Photo: Joseph Richards.
q Water height at Seaham Bridge.
Photo: Joseph Richards.
q Lightning over Tomaree Peninsula. Photo: Stephen Keating.
Green light for shopping centre
THE Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel has given approval for a shopping centre development application (DA) at Fullerton Cove. The development involves the construction of a supermarket, liquor store, commercial tenancies, medical centre and car parking.
Mayor Leah Anderson said the new mixed-use shopping centre would be an excellent benefit for the growing community.
“This type of development is a priority for Council, highlighting housing, open space, the environment, community facilities, and town centres,” Mayor
Anderson stated.
“The approval of this development aligns with our 20-year Fern Bay and North Stockton Strategy plan to help guide development in the area,” she added.
When approving the development, the Regional Planning Panel considered the development to be in the public interest.
Councillor Giacomo Arnott said the development will have positive social and economic benefits for the local community.
"I've been advocating, alongside the community of Fern Bay and Fullerton Cove, for a supermarket and local retail in the area since I was first elected in 2017 – from
the implementation of the Fern Bay and North Stockton Strategy, to the rezoning of the land, to a letter being sent to the Planning Panel late 2024 encouraging them to speed up this development approval," Cr Arnott said.
"This approval has been a long time coming and I'm thrilled at all the local jobs that will be created, and that one of our fastest growing areas will have access to groceries and services nearby.
"I believe in building well serviced neighbourhoods, and the rapid growth of this area without local retail options is a decades-old error that I am pleased to see fixed, but also committed to preventing occurring again," he added.
Support for Port Stephens builders
By Lindsay HALL
A HOME under construction in Anna Bay was host to visiting politicians on Wednesday, 15 January.
Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party Sussan Ley was joined by NSW Senator Maria Kovacic and the Liberal candidate for Paterson, Laurence Antcliff.
It was an opportunity for Mr Antcliff, who has worked in the building industry, to voice his support of local construction companies
and the need to train more apprentices.
Sussan Ley, who also serves as the Shadow Minister for Industry, Skills and Training, Small and Family Business, and Women, said Mr Antcliff’s background meant he was equipped to understand the issues surrounding the construction of new homes.
“I know how challenging it is for businesses across Australia right now,” Ms Ley said, noting that she had spoken to a number of
operators who don’t have enough confidence in the future of their businesses to take on new apprentices or trainees.
When asked about the Liberal Party’s plan to address these issues, she said it would involve partnering with Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the construction of new homes.
Mr Antcliff said the school system needed to be better equipped to steer students towards apprenticeships, suggesting that “driving all Australian students to University” was not a good strategy for the future.
Before concluding the media conference, Mr Antcliff was asked for the Liberal Party's opinion on the proposed offshore wind farms.
“I’m yet to meet one person across the entire electorate of Paterson who is for this offshore experiment across our pristine coastline,” he said.
“This is not only a bad project, but it is an insult to the people and businesses of Port Stephens.”
Mr Antcliff suggested that a “balanced mix” of renewable energy projects alongside nuclear energy would be a more sustainable plan.
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The site at 42 Fullerton Cove Road, Fullerton, was rezoned in 2022 to be a shopping centre as part of the Fern Bay and North Stockton Strategy plan.
q Concept design of the proposed development at 42 Fullerton Cove Road, Fullerton.
q Senator Maria Kovacic, Liberal Candidate for Patterson Lawrence Antcliff and Susan Ley MP
Aluminium sector to share in billions to help go green
By Andrew BROWN, AAP
AUSTRALIA’S aluminium industry is set to share in billions of dollars of investment to help it convert to renewable energy.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was in Tomago on Monday to unveil a green aluminium production credit scheme that will provide financial support to smelters changing their energy source before 2036.
As part of the $2 billion program, facilities will be eligible for support for every tonne of clean, Australian aluminium they make over a decade.
The production credits form part of the federal government's signature manufacturing program, set to cost $22.7 billion.
Mr Albanese said the production credits for aluminium would allow for more products to be manufactured locally.
"Investing in the Australian-made aluminium industry is a massive opportunity – to create wellpaid jobs in our regions and suburbs, and set Australia up for the future," he said.
"We've got the resources, the workers, and the knowhow – the only thing we don't have is time to waste.
"We are building Australia's future, not taking Australia backwards."
Its estimated revenue to GDP for the Australian aluminium industry will increase from $5.1 billion per year to $6 billion annually by 2050.
Australia is the sixthlargest producer of aluminium globally.
Industry Minister Ed Husic said the production credit scheme would help to boost aluminium jobs while also reducing emissions.
"With an entire aluminium supply chain uniquely located right here in Australia, we're
well positioned to capture the rewards of the global green energy transition," he said.
"Communities and businesses rely on aluminium smelters, and we have an opportunity to partner with the private sector to support these secure well-paying jobs into the future."
Australian Aluminium Council chief executive Marghanita Johnson said the industry would be able to transition to renewable energy to make the sector sustainable for coming years.
"The natural advantages of our mineral reserves, renewable energy resources, and highly skilled workforce can give us a competitive edge, but only if supported by the right policy framework, over the right timeframe," she said.
"The announcement of $2 billion in production credits for the sector represents a substantial step forward in the journey for Australia to
position itself as a leader in the global aluminium market."
Following the announcement, NSW Nationals Senator Ross Cadell said Labor’s all-renewable approach to energy will “decimate Australian industry, and drive aluminium production offshore”.
“For Albo to be turning up with $2 billion of taxpayer funds for the aluminium industry tells us everything there is to know about Labor’s green dream.
“Weather dependent renewables are not the cheapest, and will never sustain industry in this country,” Cadell said.
“Tomago Aluminium is the single largest user of power in Australia, consuming more than 10 percent of NSW energy supply.
“Recently, the smelter went to market seeking more than three times their current energy use because
q A new aluminium production credit scheme will support smelters to go green.
renewables can’t be trusted to deliver reliable power.
“Now, Labor is throwing your money at the industry to compensate for Albo and Bowen’s disastrous renewables only policy.”
Liberal candidate for Paterson Laurence Antcliff, said the Tomago smelter needs “certainty and reliable energy, not a political visit
Jetskiers reminded to ‘cool their jets’
By Simon EKINS
NSW Maritime officers have hit the water to remind jetskiers of their responsibilities as part of “Operation Cool Your Jets”.
This first education and safety blitz of 2025 saw officers conduct nearly 2000 vessel safety checks statewide, including around 600 jetskis.
Port Stephens, Forster, Botany Bay, Lake Illawarra, Jervis Bay and the Murray River are among the jetski hotspots targeted by patrols.
Officers issued 95 penalty notices and 256 official warnings last weekend, with jetskis accounting for a quarter of those.
The breaches related to licensing and registration (32 percent), lifejackets (26 percent) and safety equipment (15 percent).
q Jetskis at Little Beach last Sunday.
The top locations for offences were along the Murray River around Mulwala (43 offences), Forster (25 offences), around Tuggerah (22), and Brisbane Waters on the Central Coast and near Moama (20 each).
Campaign Coordinator Jay Ruming said while the vast majority of riders are doing the right thing, there are some who continue to be a danger and a nuisance to swimmers, boaters, residents and marine life.
“It’s the school holidays, the weather is hot, and we’re seeing huge volumes of jetski riders right across the state,” Mr Ruming said.
“Most of these riders are behaving in a manner that doesn’t put lives at risk or discourages people from enjoying our waterways.
“Unfortunately, a small minority of these riders continue to do the wrong thing on our waterways through aggression, recklessness or
inexperience.”
The operation comes at a time when the popularity of jetskis is booming, with more than 92,000 riders currently licensed in NSW – a 43 percent increase from the same time five years ago.
Maritime officers are reminding riders to look out for their mates and family members following a spate of crashes involving riders known to one another.
“Our data tells us that jetskis are heavily overrepresented in serious injury incidents.
“People involved in an accident on a jetski have a 50 percent likelihood they’ll suffer a serious injury.”
Since the start of summer there have been ten jet-ski related incidents, with one of those crashes leaving a jetskier with a double pelvic fracture, another with broken limbs and a third rider with serious facial and spinal injuries after he was knocked
when it’s convenient ahead of an election”.
“The future of the smelter and its 1000 workers are threatened under this Labor Government’s irresponsible energy policy.
“Only the Dutton Liberal team has the right policy mix to guarantee the future of Tomago and the jobs our region relies on.”
unconscious.
Key safety advice for new and experienced operators includes making sure riders and their passengers are always wearing a lifejacket, that their licence and registration is up to date, and that they are maintaining a safe distance from other waterway users.
Mr Ruming said it is crucial jetskiers know the rules and abide by them to avoid a potentially hefty fine, licence suspension, or worse, a serious crash.
“It’s important that jetskiers know they need to stay at least 30 metres away from other vessels, objects or the shore when travelling six knots (11km/h) or more.
“They also, where possible, need to stay at least 60 metres away from people or dive flags.”
The rules around riding jetskis and the use of other personal watercraft (PWCs) can be found on the NSW Government website, nsw. gov.au, by searching “Personal Watercraft” and “Water Safety and Rules.”
Marine Rescue completes another demanding year
FOR the fourth straight year, more than 1100 missions were completed in a 12 -month period by NSW Marine Rescue volunteers across the Hunter and Central Coast.
A total of 1,393 search and rescue missions (including 321 emergency responses) were undertaken in 2024, with 2,794 people safely returned to shore across all eight Hunter/Central Coast units Marine Rescue units –Port Stephens, Lemon Tree Passage, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Norah Head, Tuggerah Lakes, Central Coast and Terrigal.
The locations of highest demand were Lake Macquarie (652), Port Stephens (265)
and the Central Coast (240).
In 2024, Marine Rescue NSW volunteers dealt with everything from capsized vessels to groundings.
Across NSW crews performed a total of 4,735 search and rescue missions, including 1,364 emergency responses, safely returning 10,539 people to shore.
Demand on the service in 2024 was just below the record 4,786 search and rescue missions conducted in 2023.
Following the release of the statistics, Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell urged boaters to complete life-saving safety checks.
“Whether heading out on enclosed or open waters, it’s vitally important for boaters to carry the correct safety equipment, always wear a lifejacket, ensure their vessel is in good working order, carry enough fuel, and continually monitor the weather,” Commissioner Barrell said.
“A sudden change in conditions can lead to lifethreatening incidents.
“Engine and battery failure and running out of fuel are preventable issues, and boaters need to ensure their vessel is in good working order before heading out.
“Marine Rescue NSW radio operators are the link between the land and the sea.
"They are often the first voice heard by a boater in distress.
“They play a crucial role in search and rescue responses, and boaters should feel assured that Marine Rescue NSW volunteers are available around the clock.”
q Marine Rescue NSW vessel Lake Macquarie 31 during an offshore mission.
Photo: Dean Lewins/AAP
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Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
GENEROSITY - "Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely, who conducts his
No nuclear in the Hunter
DEAR News Of The Area,
THERE have been more than 100 nuclear reactor accidents recorded worldwide since 1952. These include two accidents classified as ‘major’, Chernobyl and Fukushima, and eight others classified as either ‘Serious’, or ‘Accident with wide (or local) consequences’.
It is well documented
that these ten accidents have resulted in significant, and in some cases catastrophic, long term impacts on surrounding living and natural environments.
Impacts such as a radioactive cloud covering hundreds of kilometres around the nuclear power plant, poisoning people, flora, fauna, domestic stock and marine life; exclusion zones around the nuclear
power plant that could be uninhabitable for decades and radioactive particles in the surrounding area and waterways that could take a thousand years to decay.
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
There has been a lot of angst about people setting up their cabanas on beaches lately. A good friend of mine thinks they ruin the beach, but we got one for Christmas which makes going to the beach with her a bit uncomfortable.
How do I handle this?
Karen Q.
Ah, summer on the beach.
The deafening trill of cicadas, sand in every orifice of the car, (and body) children screaming out from beyond the flags on flimsy inflatable rings, the marcasite glint coming off the ocean.
It is such an evocative time, and one that can make us nostalgic for the good
The proposal to build a nuclear power plant in an earthquake prone part of the Hunter Valley creates the real possibility of a catastrophic nuclear accident which could put the lives and livelihoods of your children and future generations at risk.
At the upcoming Federal election, voters will have a clear choice:
1. Vote for a Party that will not support the building of a nuclear power plant in the Hunter.
old days when there was an unencumbered view of the ocean and we cooked ourselves like well-done steaks, encouraging the baking process by smearing baby oil over every body part not covered by an itsy-bitsy teeny-weeny yellow polka dot bikini (and that was just the men).
Thankfully we have evolved in many ways and people are now far more sun safe than they were. Unfortunately, those of us who were sun worshippers in the 80s and 90s, are now getting basal cell carcinomas chopped out of our bodies and there is nothing sexy about that.
Cabanas and umbrellas are one way to mitigate the impact of the sun and some families don't have the luxury of living a short drive from
2. Or vote for the Party that will build a nuclear power plant at an earthquake prone location in the Hunter ignoring all of the proven inherent dangers and potentially catastrophic damage that could result from a nuclear accident.
Nuclear power is an expensive fantasy
DEAR News Of The Area,
I AM amused that Bruce Murray (NOTA 16 January 2025) is again spouting nuclear power fantasies, claiming that Australia could build 6 GW of nuclear power for only $A 60 billion ($A 10,000/kW).
Meanwhile, back in the real world, nuclear construction costs are 200 percent higher.
In America two Westinghouse AP1000 nuclear reactors - the kind favoured by Mr Dutton - cost $US 35 billion ($A 53.7 billion) for a total 2.2 GW of capacity or $A 24,400/kW. Vogtle 3
and 4 were $US 23 billion over budget and seven years late, driving Westinghouse into bankruptcy.
It gets worse in Britain, where two unfinished EPR nuclear reactors are 7 years behind schedule and way over budget.
Construction costs for Hinkley Point C soared to £48 billion ($A 92.6 billion) for 3.2 GW of capacity or $A 28,400/kW.
The builder, Electricité de France (EDF), collapsed in 2022 and had to be bailed out by the French government.
EDF is now 100 percent government owned.
These two countries, with 70 years of experience building and operating nuclear plants, could not build a new reactor for less than
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
A QUIET week for cinemas seems in order given the recent weather, but if you need a break from clearing up after the storms, you can check out a few new tales.
The Brutalist is a period drama film following the harrowing life journey of a Hungarian-born Jewish architect who tries to build a new life for his family in America.
From writer/director Brady Corbet, the film
stars Adrien Brody, who reminds us all exactly why he was once the youngest Oscar winner working in Hollywood, alongside Felicity Jones and Guy Pearce.
The Holocaust, racism, poverty, classism, abuse, injustice - it’s all explored here as we watch a gifted but downtrodden man try to build a better legacy.
Far from light-hearted, this may not be the top pick if you need a laugh this week, but it is a film that
$A 24,000/kW, so, how on earth could an inexperienced country like Australia do it for $A 10,000/kW? It's just a deluded fantasy.
Real world data also debunks the claim that nuclear reactors operate for 60 to 80 years.
The average age of operating reactors is only 32.1 years, and no reactor has operated longer than 55 years.
Beznau-1 in Switzerland, opened in 1969 and suffered several outages and "incidents" during its operating life, including when two workers were exposed to “inadmissible” levels of radiation in 2009.
The plant is scheduled to close permanently in a few years, due to rising
challenges us to examine our prejudice.
Not necessarily heartwarming but certain to have broader appeal is
A Complete Unknown, the much anticipated biopic of the early career of the legendary Bob Dylan.
Starring Timothée Chalamet as the folk singer/songwriter, the film charts the artist’s introduction to his own idol, Woody Guthrie, his gradual rise and growing respect among the folk music scene, and how it all nearly fell apart when he chose to use an electric
maintenance costs and poor economic performance.
Globally, the average age of the 213 permanently closed reactors is just 28.3 years.
In the USA, 41 nuclear reactors have permanently closed, with a mean age of 22.8 years. Although licensed to operate for 40 years, only 9 reactors reached that age. 32 were closed early for mainly economic reasons.
The reality is that nuclear fission is the most expensive, most dangerous, radioactive way of generating electricity. Australia does not need these nuclear fantasies.
Regards, Kenneth HIGGS, Raymond Terrace.
guitar at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival.
Director James Mangold (Logan) puts substance over style in this wellcrafted but “un-showy” movie, while the cast all turn in solid performances as some of the all-time greats in music.
Sure, it’s no substitute for catching the man himself at a live show… but whatever could be?
Finally for big, dumb fun, a new film by Mel Gibson, Flight Risk, premieres this week.
An intriguing thriller starring Mark Wahlberg,
the beach, so they have to come prepared for the day.
After being told my my dermatologist to only sunbake at night, I avoid the heat of the day and usually only go to the beach when most of the crowds have left, but if I was there at midday with delicate-skinned children in tow, I'd be putting up everything I could to offer a bit more protection from the sun (of course a cabana isn't enoughhats, rashies and SPF50+ sunscreen are mandatory too in our harsh climate). If the view upsets your friend, get her to move down to the shoreline where she will have a clear view of the ocean, or suggest to her that she swim first thing in the morning or last thing in the afternoon.
Then all she will have to worry about is an unpatrolled beach, rips and sharks.
Consider the risks and make your choice carefully, the future of the Hunter may depend on it.
Corlette.
Nuclear support oxymoronic
DEAR
News Of The Area,
I FIND it interesting that the pro-nuclear lobby continues to periodically and repeatedly spruik their wares regarding “clean, safe nuclear power” whilst giving wind turbines a drubbing without application of factual information.
As the phrase goes, often attributed to Mark Twain, “Lies, damned lies, and statistics”.
It is a phrase that describes how statistics can be used to support weak arguments or to mislead people.
It's often used to cast doubt on statistics that someone doesn't agree with.
Let’s begin with “clean, safe nuclear power”.
Clean – adverb - so as to be free from dirt, marks, or unwanted matter.
Safe – adjective - used to refer to things that do not involve any risk.
Like radioactive waste for example, the mention of which was omitted Mr Murray’s opinion piece, probably for costing reasons,
given its longevity. Free from or producing relatively little radioactive contamination? LOL. Not so with wind turbines and the creation of significant waste by them. I guess My Murray has not “surfed the net” and read up on efforts being undertaken to recycle or repurpose turbine blades and other components without that radioactive glow, which will last for a very long time.
As to the “pristine marine ecosystems”, maybe you would be so kind to show me more than one in and around the environs of Port Stephens.
The Mesopelagic Zone (Google it) off shore from Hawks Nest?
Also referred to as the Twilight Zone, like the dissertation of your opinion, as published.
Regards, Mervyn MCCONNOCHIE, Karuah.
Michelle Dockery and Topher Grace, the idea here is that a US Marshall hires a private plane to escort a Mob witness, only to discover that their pilot is a hitman who has been hired to ensure he never makes it to court. Whether or not this is worth checking out depends on how much you may enjoy Wahlberg, and your tolerance for Gibson’s capacity for filming violence and action.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Regards, Grant KENNETT,
READING by Lynne Miles: Psalm 112: 5
affairs with justice."
Stinker’s Fishin’: Protecting our turtles
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
AROUND this time last year, it was reported that over 40 turtles had died in Port Stephens between October and December as a result of boat and jet ski strike, ingestion of plastics and entanglement in fishing line and crab traps.
This was an alarming figure as we, as a community, had made a real effort to protect turtles by changing state crabbing laws governing the use of witches hats nets and traps with an entrance
over 32cm.
Further investigation revealed that the 2024 figure and certain reasons for the high death toll were misleading.
As a result, it has since been organised that all turtle incidences be reported to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) as the central agency and keeper of records.
‘Sea Shelter’ based at the Irukandji Shark and Ray Centre at Bobs Farm, an organisation dedicated to protecting our marine population, continues to carry
out exceptional work with reporting and rehabilitation.
As reported to NPWS by Sea Shelter, over the October 2024 to January 2025 period, we have lost a total of six turtles.
Four Green turtles died as a result of fishing line entanglement (one), boat strike (two) and crab trap entanglement (one).
One Loggerhead was found on Jimmys Beach with fishing line and one Hawksbill found on Stockton Beach, reason for death unknown.
Over the same period,
local commercial and recreational fishers reported one Green turtle death in North Arm Cove due to crab trap entanglement.
These figures are far removed from the hysteria that was generated back in 2024.
We still can improve our level of care for all marine creatures that call Port Stephens home by imposing a speed limit on all watercraft and by being more aware of the damage caused by plastic and fishing line.
Stinker’s Fishin’: Much to learn
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
I TOOK the opportunity over the past couple of weeks to return to my hometown of Tweed Heads where unsurprisingly I found plenty of time to go fishing.
The old family home is situated on the Terranora Lakes, fed by the Tweed River, some five kilometres (km) from the river mouth.
A pontoon in the back yard is perfect to tie up my boat, drop a crab pot or set a line.
Big Sydney Rock oysters and an assortment of tropical fruit trees grow along the riverbank.
Living on the river, the day’s activities are determined by one overriding
factor - the tide. Since Christmas the tides have been very high, which pushes crystal clear water into the lakes providing ideal conditions to snorkel among
the mangroves. Swimming among the trees it is like an aquarium with big bream, luderick and, the one I am looking for, Mangrove Jack.
Storm scams warning
By Thomas O’KEEFE
SCAMMERS are attempting to take advantage of the recent storms and the community’s increased vulnerability.
The National Broadband Network (nbn) is one of the companies urging everyone to remain vigilant for unsolicited phone calls or messages.
“nbn has been made aware… that some residents have received phone calls from scammers impersonating nbn and asking for funds to expedite the restoration of their service,” a representative told News Of The Area.
“It is unthinkable that scammers would use this as an opportunity to target people and communities.
“Please be aware [that] nbn will never contact customers asking for payment or any other financial information, and we urge anyone who receives one of these calls to hang up and report it to ScamWatch immediately at scamwatch. gov.au.”
The nbn website - nbnco. com.au/learn/protectyourself-from-scams - is loaded with alert information and a list of red flags to look out for, advising that
immediate action be taken if anyone believes they have been scammed.
“Do not share your bank or personal details with an unsolicited caller or with people who door-knock claiming to be from nbn trying to sell you an nbn service or seeking payment for related services, and never give an unsolicited caller remote access to your computer or mobile phone.
“Be aware that your devices can be accessed by people externally through the installation of Remote Desktop Access websites, programs or applications including, but not limited to, TeamViewer, AnyDesk, QuickSupport, Ultra Viewer, Splashtop Streamer, Chrome Remote Desktop, Microsoft Remote Desktop, Windows Quick Assist, Supremo, AnyConnect, or Anyplace control.”
A common scammer technique is simple, yet horrifyingly effective: they call during a time of distress, heighten their victim’s panic by telling them they have a significant problem, then offer a quick and easy way to solve it.
These “quick fixes” usually involve the handing over of personal information,
such as credit/debit card numbers, bank access details, personal login information.
“And scammers will happily employ high-pressure tactics to force people into a state of panic to cloud their judgement.”
The ACCC’s ScamWatch, the Federal Government’s main body for dealing with scammer activity, has an easy, three-word slogan that helps citizens remember what to do - “Stop. Check. Protect.”
If, for example, you receive an unsolicited call from someone claiming to work for NBNCo, or any other telco company, “Stop. Check. Protect.” would look like this:
- Stop by hanging up the call immediately, and do not give any personal information.
- Check by locating the supposed company’s official contact details, either from a known website, or from your household’s original sign-up paperwork. Call them directly to ask if they have tried to contact you.
- Protect yourself, and others, by reporting any suspected scam action to the relevant bank or financial institution, the Police, or to the Australian Cyber Security Centre.
Schools of mullet on the surface and the odd whiting nosing through the sand.
Although still beautiful, the Terranora Lake system has changed greatly from my earliest recollections.
An inundation of sand over the years has formed many spits and bars and the depth of the water has been significantly reduced to an average of around two metres.
The sea grass meadows, once so extensive, have all but disappeared with one of the reasons for the depletion
being the huge number of swans.
The big birds spend all day feasting on the tender sea grass shoots denuding areas, as big as a tennis court, in less than a week.
This problem is increasing in Port Stephens and needs to be confronted.
The greatest change is the on-water traffic which has increased to the degree where a peaceful day on the water is a thing of the past.
Power boats and jet skis roaring through the waterway have turned the Tweed into a
race track.
Progress - I am told.
I can’t help but compare and contrast the Tweed to Port Stephens.
Although very different in many ways I feel we have similar issues to consider moving forward.
With the increasing popularity of both regions I think the major issue is infrastructure.
Streets, parking, garbage, toilets and boatramps.
We cannot continue to encourage visitors if we cannot provide the basics while remaining fully aware of the environment, natural resources and wildlife.
q An array of fish can be found among the mangroves.
q Mangrove forests provide ideal fish habitat for bream and luderick.
q As reported to NPWS by Sea Shelter, over the October 2024 to January 2025 period, we have lost a total of six turtles in Port Stephens.
Nelson Bay swim club’s medal haul
By Chris KARAS
MEMBER for Port
Stephens Kate Washington demonstrated her timekeeping skills at the annual Nelson Bay Swimming Club Carnival at Tomaree Aquatic Centre.
Ms Washington helped clock the personal best times of the strong contingent while also inspecting the new lane ropes funded by the NSW Government’s Local Sports Grant Program.
“I would like to thank Minister for Sport Steve Kamper for backing community sport, and the Nelson Bay Swim Club committee and members for all their hard work,” she told News Of The Area.
Three hundred elite competitors from across 49 swimming clubs throughout NSW participated in the twoday meet, with the Nelson Bay club collecting a swag of medals.
The small club continues to produce outstanding results under the expert coaching of Tom Davies.
Corlette’s rising state champion Ebony Nix was a standout in the Under 17
Girls division.
The talented prospect won seven of her eight events, capturing gold medals in the 50m freestyle, 50m butterfly, 50m backstroke, 100m freestyle, 100m breaststroke, 100m butterfly and 100m backstroke - plus a silver medal in the 50m breaststroke final.
Promising all rounder Lachlan Parker dominated the Under 14 Boys category with five gold medals from his seven swimming disciplines.
Parker won the 50m freestyle, 50m butterfly, 50m breaststroke, 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly finals and picked up a silver medal in the 200m individual medley and bronze in the 50m backstroke.
Emerging swimmer Rafe Grant produced five personal best times in his six events, which included winning gold in the Under 12 Boys 200m freestyle final and a bronze medal in the 100m freestyle.
His older brother Stefan performed strongly in the Under 13 Boys section, acquiring silver medals in the 100m butterfly and 200m freestyle finals plus bronze in the 50m butterfly, 400m
freestyle and 1500m freestyle events.
Top prospect Isabella Hol showed her credentials in the Under 15 Girls division with three silver medals in the 50m freestyle, 50m butterfly and 100m butterfly finals as well as earning bronze in the 50m backstroke and 100m freestyle.
Outstanding breaststroke prospect Lara Budd was rewarded for her intensive training by picking up two silver medals in the Under 14 Girls 50m and 100m finals and a bronze medal in the 200m event.
Beau Gardiner posted seven personal best times from his seven events in the Under 12 Boys ranks –earning silver medals in the 50m breaststroke and 100m breaststroke finals while Anekah Macklin collected a bronze medal in the Under 18 Girls 200m individual medley.
Promising ten-year-old swimmer Scarlett Connor achieved five personal best times from her eight events in the Under 10 Girls category and was rewarded with a bronze medal in the 100m butterfly final.
Other Nelson Bay club
swimmers to impress were Evie Burns who recorded five personal best times from six events in the Under 12 Girls; Jacinta Scott, four PBs from five events in the Under 10 Girls; Alexis Scott, two PBs from four events in the Under
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Len GOUGH
RESULTS from a Stableford competition played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 13th January with 52 players.
Nett Winner : Ian Dean, 40pts.
Nett Runner Up : Ian Langdon, 38pts.
Bonus Point Winner : Phil Rogan, 40pts.
Bonus Pt. Runner Up : Mary Kay, 38pts on c/b. Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole, Div. 1 : No Winner. Div 2 : Brian Marshall. Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole, Div 1 : Bill Osborne.
Div 2 : Bob Sellick. Drive & Chip, 7th Hole, Div 1 : Mark Thormber, (v) Div 2 : Brian Marshall. Drive & Chip, 18th Hole,
Div 1 : Frank Vandruten (birdie)
Div 2 : Greg Garvin. Ball Winners :
Christine Osborne 38pts, Shayne Mullarvey 37pts, Brian Marshall 37pts, Peter Toth 37pts, Peter Hawkins 36pts, Alan Stark 35pts, Kel Dorney 35pts, Frank Vandruten 35pts, John Howlett 35pts, Greg Hinton 34pts, Alan Foster 34pts,
Bill Osborne 34pts, Bryan Porter 34pts, Bronwyn Smith 33pts, Tony Care 33pts, and Col Kerrison 33pts.
Lucky Prize Draw Winner : Jayne Berriman.
Next weeks game is at Tanilba Bay GC with a 7:30am start, visitors are welcome any Monday, please ring Gary Watt on 49814536 for starting times.
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Gary WATT
RESULTS from a Stableford competition played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 13th January with 52 players.
Nett Winner : Ian Dean, 40pts.
Nett Runner Up : Ian Langdon, 38pts.
Bonus Point Winner :
Phil Rogan, 40pts.
Bonus Pt. Runner Up :
Mary Kay, 38pts on c/b.
Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole, Div. 1 : No Winner.
Div 2 : Brian Marshall. Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole, Div 1 : Bill Osborne. Div 2 : Bob Sellick. Drive & Chip, 7th Hole, Div 1 : Mark Thormber, (v) Div 2 : Brian Marshall.
Drive & Chip, 18th Hole, Div 1 : Frank Vandruten (birdie)
Div 2 : Greg Garvin. Ball Winners :
Christine Osborne 38pts, Shayne Mullarvey 37pts, Brian Marshall 37pts, Peter Toth 37pts, Peter Hawkins 36pts, Alan Stark 35pts, Kel Dorney 35pts, Frank Vandruten 35pts, John Howlett 35pts, Greg Hinton 34pts,
Alan Foster 34pts, Bill Osborne 34pts, Bryan Porter 34pts, Bronwyn Smith 33pts, Tony Care 33pts, and Col Kerrison 33pts.
Lucky Prize Draw Winner : Jayne Berriman.
Next weeks game is at Tanilba Bay GC with a 7:30am start, visitors are welcome any Monday, please ring Gary Watt on 49814536 for starting times.
Paddling a way of life for Fingal Bay
national champ Sandra Lyons
FROM Page 20
championship gold medallist in the Over 60 Seniors ranks.
The Melbourne-native has developed into one of the sport’s fiercest competitors since moving to the Port
Stephens region in 2020. If not on the water, you’ll find her clocking up the kilometres on her personal rowing machine to maintain peak fitness and her competitive edge.
Sandra played basketball
in her youth but has acquired a deep passion for paddling since attending a club “Come and Try Day” at Soldiers Point, five years ago.
“I loved paddling out on the water with dolphins and turtles and the camaraderie
q Port Stephens MP Kate Washington was guest timekeeper at Nelson Bay
with my Dragon Boat Racing colleagues," she told News Of The Area.
“The sport is ideal for my mental health and has enabled me to form many friendships over the years.”
Sandra competed at her
13 Girls; Thomas Colbert, three PBs from eight events in the Under 11 Boys and sevenyear-old debutant Oceana Xie, who claimed three PBs from three events in the Under 7 Girls division in her first ever swimming competition.
Another exciting sevenyear-old rookie Keana Macklin shaved a huge 21 seconds off her previous best time in the Under 7 Girls 50m freestyle event.
Muree Golf Results
By Vicki RANKIN
SATURDAY 11th Jan.
Stableford. A Grade
1.Gregory Harding 39C/B
2.Kelvin Daniel 39
3.Steven Shearer 38
B Grade
1. Lancelot Slade 38C/B
2. William Wylie 38C/B
3. Peter Botha 38
C Grade
1. Peter Waters 38
first national titles in Perth last year, winning a gold medal with the NSW Over 60s Senior C crew in the onekilometre Turn Back final, and earning a silver medal in the 500m event.
Each Tuesday and Thursday, you’ll find the endurance ace paddling with club crews at Soldiers Point before travelling to Sydney for a weekend training session.
Sandra along with club mate Janine Noonan from Anna Bay will represent NSW at this year’s National Dragon Boat Championships at the State Regatta Centre at Penrith during April.
Janine will line up for the NSW Senior B 50 plus squad with Sandra to spearhead the NSW Senior C 60 plus crew.
At the Pan Pacific Masters Championships late last year on the Gold Coast, a determined Sandra brought home bronze with
2. John Backes 37C/B
3. James Hutton 37
2BBB James Hutton Mark Elkin 48 Pro Pin Gregory Harding Wedneswday 15th Jan. Medley Stableford. A Grade 1. Eric Sanders 41
2. Daran Emmett 38 B Grade
1. Wendy Cotton 38C/B
2. David Carroll 38
2BBB Wendy Cotton Betty Ritchie 45 Pro Pin Mark Sullivan
a combined Port Stephens/ Central Coast squad in the 500m sprint final.
She showed her durability and skill on the water against international crews and was rewarded with a medal.
“Mark is my rock and greatest supporter and always there to offer tips and encouragement,” she said of her husband.
“I am lucky to be involved with a great Dragon Boat racing club here at Port Stephens with amazing colleagues and friends,” she added.
Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club trains Tuesday and Thursdays from 5.30pm to 7pm; Saturdays 7.30am to 9am and Saturday Social 9.30am to 11am.
Anyone interested in joining can phone 0493 612 044 or email portstephensdragons@gmail. com.
Swimming Club’s annual carnival at Tomaree Aquatic Centre.
SUDOKU
Kids Boot Camp 029
MYALL COAST PORT STEPHENS
LOCALClassifieds
Death Notices
Bruce William Everitt
D.O.D 19 Jan 25
Known for his Fish and Chips and Bacon and Egg Rolls from the old waterfront takeaway, Bruce passed away after his battle with cancer. His wife, Chris and children Steven, Anthony and Jillian wish to thank all who shared their friendship with dad in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest over the years.
Wanted to Buy
Top prices paid by local collector. Call Jim 0400 060 215
COFFEE Table / TV table, black with glass top, 1200 × 600 x 440 high, $60. 0433 210 187
TWO outdoor chairs near new. $20 for both 0493 777 707
timber Mimosa (Bunnings) folding indoor/outdoor chairs As new cond. $99.00 Call 0493 078
f281124 WALKER, new, unused med wt,
WORK boots, new, size 10, Blacksmith. $20 0493 777 707
WOMENS winter clothing size 10-12 quality, near new, nothing over $20. Ph 49385923 for address
ALLY craft 4.75m Yamaha 60hp 4 stroke 70 hrs, drive on trailer heaps of gear, great unit $12,000 ono. NY932N TK17JZ. 49841202
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SUZUKI Grand Vitara 2001, 3 door 4 x 4 manual, Hi/low range 203,000 klm’s, VGC many extra’s, always serviced. Reg: YDB27S $7,800. 0415 678 687
Classifieds 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea .com.au
7310mm (24 Foot) length, Rock and roll suspension off road with electric brakes and shock absorbers to all wheels, 2 x single beds with 3 x doonas for each bed, covers and sheets, Large Ensuite with shower/Ceramic toilet and vanity/washing machine/Hoover vacuum –shower doubles as a bath, 4 burner gas cooktop/oven/grill, 3 way fridge/freezer, Gas/240V hot water system, Microwave, Slide out food pantry – two basket drawers for food storage + wine glass storage + plate storage, Portable table located in wardrobe for eating inside the van on overnight trips, Lounge converts to another single bed, 2 x wine storage lockers + fresh water pump under the lounge, 40″ flat screen TV with DVD/radio, Slide out computer desk with 12/240v connections, Explorer plug to computer desk for aerial connections + printer drawer under desk, Dometic B3000 air conditioner, 20 KVA diesel heater under lounge with electronic controls, All windows have fly screens and block out blinds, 4.5KVA remote start generator which will run the air conditioning and other services where 240v power is not available, ¾ Tunnel containing: full annex together with plastic windows and 3meter BBQ annex extending out to the tow ball, Sunshade awning and awning struts, Front Boot Locker containing 2 new 160 AH long life Gel batteries with 5-year warranty, bag of steel stakes, bag of tension ropes, tools and hose fittings and Caravan Jack, A Frame mesh containing fresh water hoses, Under Chassis tool box containing wood blocks, caravan ramps and chocks, 8-meter sullage hose in pipe container under the caravan access from the rear, 3 x fresh water tanks, with independent valve system to enable pumping from specific water tanks, 2 x 100L and 1 x 60L tanks, 2 x external LED lights and BBQ light and LED handle at entrance, Lifestyle picnic table - folds out from side of the van, External speakers and TV connections for running a portable TV outside in the annex area, Gas bayonet at the front of the van for the BBQ, Reversing camera, New caravan cover, New awning Note: Landcruiser also available as a package deal. POA. Phone 0412 081 950 Re270625
SPONSOR A DISADVANTAGED AUSTRALIAN CHILD TODAY. The Smith Family 1800 318 238 Billy doesn’t have what he needs for school.
WOK, new with glass lid, $20. 0493 777 707
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
SILENT WITNESS
ABC TV, 8.30pm
Debuting all the way back in 1996, this venerable British crime drama returns with its 27th edition tonight. Longtime star Emilia Fox (pictuted), who has now been with the show for 20 seasons, is back as forensic pathologist Dr Nikki Alexander. This week, Nikki and colleague Jack Hodgson (David Caves, pictured with Fox) are called in when a body is found with all the hallmarks of being an infamous serial killer’s latest victim. Along for the ride in this two-part episode is the superb John Hannah, who steals the show as a former coroner whose wife believed to be a victim of the same killer.
FRIDAY, January 24
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Monty Don’s History Of The British Garden: The 19th Century. (R)
Silent Witness. (Return, Mal) Nikki and Jack investigate a murder.
You Can’t Ask That: Short-Statured. (Mls, R) An insight into people’s lives. 10.35 Live At The Malthouse. (Mal, R)
11.40 ABC Late News.
11.55 Grand Designs: Wyre Forest. (R)
12.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R)
1.30 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
SATURDAY
GUY MONTGOMERY’S GUY MONT SPELLING BEE (NZ)
ABC ENTERTAINS, 8pm
Loosely based on a classic spelling bee format, and wholly an excuse for Kiwi stand-up Guy Montgomery (pictured) to rib, taunt and infuriate his comedian pals on television, the Australian edition of this comedy panel show created quite the buzz for the ABC when it premiered last year. However, what some might not know is that there’s plenty more where that came from. It’s a red-letter day for fans: Montgomery’s homegrown seasons of the Spelling Bee are here, where he’s assisted by the delightfully deadpan
Sanjay Patel. Tonight’s premiere sees Hayley Sproull, Abby Howells, Matt Heath and Josh Thomson prove their spelling prowess (or lack thereof).
WEDNESDAY
OPTICS
ABC TV, 8.30pm It’s a match made in Australian satire heaven: this biting new sitcom combines the talents of ’s Jenna Owen (pictured) and Vic Zerbst
minds behind Stan Christmas
Nugget is Dead) with the brilliance of The ’s Charles Firth. It’s set in the offices of public relations firm Fritz & Randell, where colleagues Greta (Zerbst) and Nicole (Owen) are trying spin a disgraced AFL player’s antics while their heir-apparent colleague Ian (Firth) sits in an all-male corporate strategy meeting. When the CEO suddenly passes away, the company’s billionaire owner (Claude Jabbour, Last King of the Cross) suggests two surprising successors.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 MOVIE: The Goldfinch. (2019, Madlv, R) 10.10 The Day The Rock Star Died: Michael Hutchence. (Ma)
10.40 SBS World News Late.
11.10 De Gaulle. (PG)
12.10 Kin. (MA15+l, R)
2.55 Home Is Where The Art Is. (PG, R)
3.45 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. The Challenger. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of The Challenger. 11.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) Johanna Griggs learns pickling.
12.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 4. Highlights. 1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Hosted by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Reviews, previews, interviews, highlights and opinions from the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 13.
11.00 MOVIE: Those Who Wish Me Dead. (2021, MA15+lv, R) A survival expert tries to save a teenage boy. Angelina Jolie.
1.00 Customs. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Mark rides in a horse race.
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Drive TV. (R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: Catch Me If You Can. (2002, Mls, R) An FBI agent chases a young con man. Leonardo DiCaprio, Tom Hanks. 10.20 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather.
10.45 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 11.50 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 6am Morning Programs. Noon NewsDay. 12.30 National Press Club: PM Albanese. 1.30 NewsDay. 2.00
Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey. (2012, M) 11.05
6.00
SATURDAY, January 25
6.30 Back Roads: Theodore, Queensland. (PG, R) Guest presented by Anna Daniels.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Australian Of The Year 2025. (PG) Hosted by Leigh Sales.
8.45 Beyond Paradise. (PG) Humphrey investigates the death of an unidentified man found in the centre of a crop circle.
9.45 Vera. (Mv, R) Vera investigates a daring robbery, but uncovers a web of intrigue when it turns out to be an inside job.
11.15 Miniseries: Until I Kill You. (Malv, R) 12.50 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.55 MOVIE: Gangsta Granny. (2013) 9.00 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.45 Speechless. 10.05 Officially Amazing. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland.
8.30 Cotswolds And Beyond
With Pam Ayres. (PGa, R)
9.20 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PGa, R)
10.15 Ruby Wax: Castaway. (Mal, R)
11.10 Ralph And Katie. (PGal, R)
2.30 Home Is Where The Art Is. (PG, R)
3.25 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)
4.20 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Twenty20 International Series. Australia v England. Game 3.
10.30 MOVIE: Dracula Untold. (2014, Mh, R) After his kingdom is threatened by invaders, a young prince becomes a monster to protect his people. Luke Evans, Dominic Cooper.
12.30 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 5. Highlights.
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News.
6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Reviews, previews, interviews, highlights and opinions from the Australian Open at Melbourne Park.
7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 14.
12.00 MOVIE: Red Dog. (2011, PGals, R)
A dog unites a remote outback community. Josh Lucas.
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG) Religious program.
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG, R)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 8.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) A spaniel may have founds its soul sister. An excitable lurcher puppy meets a husky. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) Follows NSW Ambulance on the longest night of the year, the end of daylight saving, as they deal with a diabetic coma, a rescue from a burning car, a child in anaphylaxis and an explosion in Chinatown. 10.30 Ambulance UK. (Ma, R) Ambulance crews attend a number of emotionally charged category one emergencies. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
SUNDAY, January 26
6.55 Governor-General’s Australia Day Message. An address to the nation.
7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.
7.30 Australia Day Live. A celebration of music, lights and fireworks.
9.30 MOVIE: Shine. (1996, PGav, R) An eccentric pianist suffers a nervous breakdown as he pursues a career in music. Geoffrey Rush, Sonia Todd. 11.15 To Be Advised.
10.40 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Jordan. (PGa, R)
11.35 Splice Here: A Projected Odyssey.
2.00 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R)
2.55 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R)
3.50 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.40 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
6am I Capture The Castle. (2003, PG) 7.05 All Roads Lead To Rome. (2015, PG) 8.45 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 10.25 Haywire. (2011, M) 12.05pm Infinite Storm. (2022, M) 1.55 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 3.55 The Cup. (2011, PG) 5.55 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 8.30 Harry Brown. (2009, MA15+) 10.25 The Handmaiden. (2016, MA15+, Korean) 1.05am Late Programs. 6am The Scarlet And The Black. Continued. (1983, PG) 8.10 The Farewell. (2019, PG) 10.00 Man Up. (2015, M) 11.40 Mother Couch. (2023) 1.40pm Skies Of Lebanon. (2020, PG, Italian) 3.25 All Roads Lead To
(2015, PG) 5.05 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 6.55 Wide Open Sky. (2015) 8.30 Sweet As. (2022) 10.05 Tobacco Barns. (2022, M, Spanish) Midnight The Comeback Trail. (2020, MA15+) 1.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG)
7.30 John Farnham: Finding The Voice. (Mal, R)
9.30 An Audience With Kylie Minogue. (PG, R)
10.45 The British Airways Killer. (Mav, R)
12.50 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. Men’s. Stage 6. Highlights.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
(64) SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets Of Dumbledore. (2022, M) 10.35 MOVIE: The Mechanic. (2011, MA15+) 12.30am The Originals. 2.30 Surfing Aust. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Beyblade X. 4.00
6.00 NBN News.
6.30 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 7.30 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 15. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 12.00 The First 48: Inside The Tape Special #9. (MA15+a)
A body is discovered in a bridge. 1.00 Customs. (PG, R) Follows customs officers at work. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
The Road To The Open: A New Chapter. (R)
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 8.30 MOVIE: Gemini Man. (2019, Mlv, R) An aging assassin finds himself being chased by someone with the ability to predict his moves. Will Smith, Clive Owen, Mary Elizabeth Winstead. 10.40 FBI. (Mv, R)
MONDAY, January 27
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. 8.35 Hard Quiz Kids. 9.05 The Wonderful World Of Puppies. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Hunt For Truth: Tasmanian Tiger. (Final, Ml, R)
8.35 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (M)
9.30 Inside Sydney Airport. (PGal, R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Clean Sweep. (MA15+s)
11.55 Wisting. (Madlv, R)
12.50 You Shall Not Lie. (MA15+als, R)
2.45 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.35 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.25 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Final. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the Big Bash League Final. 11.00 Motorway Patrol. (Ma) A good samaritan helps out at a crash.
11.30 Highway Cops. (PGa) A truckie’s seatbelt saves his neck.
12.00 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
A gridiron team strives for victory.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News. The latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.
7TWO
6.00 Deal
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Return, Mls) The social experiment begins. 9.30 To Be Advised. 10.30 9News Late. 11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv)
11.50 Casualty 24/7. (Mm, R)
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R)
Today Early News.
6am The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 7.40 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 9.30 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 11.35 Zama. (2017, M, Spanish) 1.50pm The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 4.25 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 6.35 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 8.30 Drunken Tai Chi. (1984, M, Cantonese) 10.10 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 12.30am Late Programs.
TUESDAY, January 28
9.50 Ningaloo Nyinggulu. (R)
ABC Late News. 11.00 The Business. (R)
Prosecuting Evil. (Ma, R)
Grand Designs. (R) 1.30 Long
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? (PGa, R)
8.35 Stock Aitken Waterman: Legends Of Pop. (Final, Ml, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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Blood Treasure. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Great Wall With Ash Dykes. (Premiere) 10.30 Leguizamo Does America. 12.20am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Animal
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Farewell. (2019, PG) 7.55 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 10.05 Sweet As. (2022) 11.45 The Emigrants. (2021, M, Swedish) 2.25pm Wide Open Sky. (2015) 4.00 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 6.10 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 8.30 Hero. (2002, M, Mandarin) 10.25 Wet Season. (2019, MA15+) 12.20am Hunt. (2022, MA15+, Korean) 2.40 Broker. (2022, M, Korean) 5.00 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG)
7.30 The 1% Club. (PGls) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.
8.35 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+v, R) A retired CIA black ops operative is forced back into action when his friend is murdered. Denzel Washington, Pedro Pascal. 11.05 MOVIE: Skyscraper. (2018, lv, R) Dwayne Johnson.
1.00 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) 9.15 Barbie Uncovered: A Dream House Divided. (Ma) Explores
WEDNESDAY, January 29
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 The Way We Wore. (Final, PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.50 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.00 Forever Summer With Nigella. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
Amazing Railway Adventures. (PGav, R) 3.00 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Who The Bloody Hell Are We? (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Aust. (PG, R) 6.30 News.
7.35 The Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor. (PG, R)
8.30 Wonders Of The Moon With Dara Ó Briain. (PGa)
9.25 Miniseries: Playing Nice. (Premiere, M)
10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Pagan Peak. (Mav) 11.40 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+v, R) 12.50 Agent Hamilton. (Mav, R) 2.30 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R) 3.20 22 Kids And Counting. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Doctor Who. 10.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Murder, She Baked: Just Desserts. (2017, PGav) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Kirby holds a strategy meeting.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (Return, PG) Hosted by Lee Mack. 8.30 Ludwig. (Premiere, Ma) A man investigates his twin’s disappearance. 9.45 Breathtaking. (Premiere, Ma)
10.45 The Suspects: True Australian Thrillers. (M, R)
9.00 MOVIE: Unbreakable: Jelena Dokic Story. (2024, Mal) The story of Jelena Dokic. Jelena Dokic, Pam Shriver.
11.15 9News Late.
11.45 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)
12.35 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6am TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Surf Patrol. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To
6am Morning
THURSDAY, January 30
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Australian Of The Year 2025. (PG, R) 2.15 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To
Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 72 Cutest Animals. 9.45 Doctor Who. 10.45 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Matrix Resurrections. (2021, M) 11.30 Seinfeld. 12.30am The Nanny. 1.30 Love After Lockup. 3.00 Teen Titans Go! 3.30 Late Programs.
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Programs. 9.15 Where Is Anne Frank. (2021, PG) 11.10 Drunken Tai Chi. (1984, M, Cantonese) 12.50pm The Way Way Back. (2013, M) 2.45 Minari. (2020, PG, Korean) 4.55 Sissi: The Fateful Years. (1957, PG, German) 6.55 The Eagle Huntress. (2016, PG, Kazakh) 8.30 The Big Boss. (1971, M, Cantonese) 10.30 Too Cool To Kill. (2022, M, Mandarin) 12.30am Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.25 Confucius Was A Foodie. (R) 11.05 China On Stage. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Hold Up. (Mv, R) 2.10 Amazing Railway Adventures. (PGa, R) 3.00 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Australia Uncovered: Our African Roots. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots. (Return)
8.30 Silk Road From Above. (PG, R) The aerial journey concludes.
9.30 The Darkness. (MA15+a)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Divided We Stand. (Mal)
12.50 Blanca. (Malv, R)
2.45 Home Is Where The Art Is. (R)
3.35 22 Kids And Counting. (PGl, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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& Rex. 2.20 Unknown Amazon. 3.15 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 6.10 Loot: Blood Treasure. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: The Flowers Of War. (2011, MA15+) 11.05 MOVIE: So Close. (2002, MA15+) 1.05am Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up 1998. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 MOVIE: The New Corporation. (2020, M) 2.40 Insight. 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.40 Alone: The Skills Challenge. 6.05 Loot: Blood Treasure. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. 12.55am Criminal Planet. 2.40 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 8.35 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 10.55 Hero. (2002, M, Mandarin) 12.50pm Stage Mother. (2020, M) 2.30 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.25 Much Ado About Nothing. (1993, PG) 6.30 Kung Fu Yoga. (2017, PG) 8.30 Ip Man: Kung Fu Master. (2019, MA15+, Mandarin) 10.05 Noryang: Deadly Sea. (2023, MA15+, Korean) 12.50am Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Air Crash Investigations: The Accident Files. (PGa, R) 2.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 2.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. Test Match. Australia v England. Day 1. Afternoon session. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Uptown Girls. (2003, PGl, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Eden wants answers from Cash.
7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGa)
8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones’s Diary. (2001, Mlv, R) A woman documents a year of her life through her diary. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth.
10.35 Pam & Tommy. (Final, MA15+alns)
11.35 Autopsy USA. (Ma, R)
12.30 Black-ish. (PGa, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
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6am Children’s Programs.
Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream
2.00
2.30 The Nanny. 3.30
4.30 The
5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Wolf Of Wall Street. (2013, MA15+) 12.10am Seinfeld. 1.10 The Nanny. 2.05 Surfing Aust. 2.30 Bakugan: Legends. 3.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 American Pickers. Noon Pawn Stars. 1.00 Outback Truckers. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Counting Cars. 4.30 Storage
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9GO! (83)
PORT STEPHENS
23 January 2025
SPORT
Community News ~ Proudly Independent
By Chris KARAS
Chasing gold
By Chris KARAS
WHEN it comes to endurance training there are plenty of options for accomplished Fingal Bay paddler Sandra Lyons. The 62-year-old “late bloomer” only
to turn to husband Mark, a former top notch iron man triathlete, for any fitness or technical advice. Sandra is one of the elite paddlers at Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club and a national
celebrating Australia Day
MAITLAND
Maitland City Council have some fantastic events planned for Sunday 26th of January including a free BBQ breakfast at Maitland Park, free entry to local swimming pools for the day and a “Dive In” Cinema at Maitland Aquatic Centre
PORT STEPHENS
Port Stephens Council also have an incredible line up for Australia Day ranging from live music, food stalls, RAAF flyover and 9pm fireworks!
Check your local council website for events near you.
q Outstanding Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club paddlers Sandra Lyons and Janine Noonan will represent NSW at the National Championships at Penrith.
