Port Stephens News Of The Area 25 July 2024

By Simon EKINS

q The spectacular Human Whale on Fingal Bay Beach. Photo: Brent Mail.

YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED PORT STEPHENS NEWSPAPER

Sub-Branch celebrates 100-year-old war veteran

FROM Page 1

After basic training in Queensland, Eric was sent to the Pacific Command engaged in fighting the Japanese forces who at the time occupied many Pacific islands, and were threatening the security of Australia’s land and territories.

In May of that year, United States forces had invaded the enemy-held Aleutian Islands, and a Japanese submarine sank the Australian hospital ship 'Centaur' with the loss of 299 lives.

At the same time, in Shoal Bay (where Eric now lives) and Little Beach, huge beach landing exercises were taking place with US Marines, Royal Australian Navy and Commandos all training together with the specific goal of defeating the invading Japanese forces.

Eric was sent to the island of Morotai, part of a peninsula of Western New Guinea, in what is now Indonesia’s Maluku Island group.

On 15 September 1944, United States and Australian forces landed on the southwest corner of Morotai, which the Allies needed as a base to support the liberation of the Philippines later that year.

Fighting for the island continued until the end of the war in 1945, however Eric and his comrades not only held off a very determined and aggressive enemy, but also managed to build two airfields and associated defences, further strengthening the Allied effort.

On Tuesday, Eric was presented

q (Back row) Nelson Bay RSL subBranch Welfare Officers John Collins and Sam Gardner, with (front row) veterans Harry ‘Norm’ Cason, Eric Brae and sub Branch President Mark Balsarini.

q Eric’s medals on display in the Nelson Bay RSL museum.

with gifts and a framed letter from Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Chipman, part of which read: “Air Force’s current aviators draw great inspiration from the efforts of our veterans.

“Your distinguished service in Air Force as a Leading Aircraftsman Fitter Driver whilst stationed at Morotai is a true reflection of your values and sacrifice, which we try to echo each day.

“On behalf of all Aviators of the Royal Australian Air Force, thank you for your valuable service to Australia, and congratulations on achieving your 100th Birthday.”

Stanley St 16-2024-328-1 Alterations/additions to existing dwelling

Blanch St 16-2024-308-1 Detached dwelling and 1 into 2 lot subdivision 51 Johnson Pde; 1 Ward St; 3 Ward St 16-2024-251-1 Single storey dwelling, construct 2 storey dwelling, attached secondary dwelling, attached dual occupancy, 2 lot Strata Title subdivision, demolition works, boundary adjustment, lot consolidation

89 South St 16-2024-330-1 Carport

Macadamia Cct 16-2024-340-1 Single storey dwelling 26 Gardenia Dr 16-2024-321-1 Single storey dwelling 44 Grey Gum St 16-2024-332-1 Addition to existing dwelling and deck

68 Macadamia Cct 16-2024-320-1 2 storey dwelling 84 Macadamia Cct 16-2024-329-1 Retaining wall NELSON BAY

22 Bourne Bvde 16-2018-256-3

S4.55(2) Modification alterations/additions 2nd storey deck – flame zone rating downgrade to 1 door

26 Grafton St 16-2023-334-2

S4.55(1A) Modification 2 storey dual occupancy with attached garages, retaining walls, removal of vegetation, 1 into 2 lot Strata subdivision –amend from Strata to Torrens title subdivision

3 Bayview St 16-2024-341-1

q Landing Ship, Tanks (LSTs) beaching at Morotai in September 1944.

Human Whale highlights importance of conservation

FROM Page 1

groups.

“This Human Whale event not only produces a day filled with fun and excitement but also underscores the importance of Australian conservation,” Sean Andrews from Moonshadow-TQC Cruises said.

“Fingal residents and visitors alike have an opportunity to explore a variety of captivating, interactive, and educational displays presented by esteemed local organisations such as Port Stephens Council,

Moonshadow-TQC Cruises, NSW

National Parks and Wildlife Service and many others.”

Adding to the festivities, Fingal Bay Surf Life Saving Club once again delighted visitors with their popular sausage sizzle.

Live musical entertainment was provided by local musician Mick Jones, with a special appearance by Port Stephens’ own Sea Shanty Singalong Group.

After exploring the local displays and activities on offer, the human whale was formed and then captured from the air via a drone

local

A contingent of local youngsters even formed a human ‘blowhole’ which was filmed in an impressive animation of a water spout from an imagined giant sperm whale.

Footage and pictures of the activities can be seen on the Facebook event page at https://www.facebook.com/ HumanWhalePortStephens.

For more of this and Brent’s other Australian adventures, follow him at https://www.instagram.com. brentmailman.

If you are unwell or injured call healthdirect for free on 1800 022 222. A registered nurse will help you access the health care you need from anywhere, day or night. health.nsw.gov.au/anywhere

q The Human Whale is formed on Fingal Bay beach. Photo: Brent Mail.

q Mick Jones providing live entertainment.

operated by

entrepreneur Brent Mail.

q The Nelson Bay ‘Gateguard’ Sperm Whale.

q ‘Dale the Whale’ entertaining visitors.

Lindsay HALL 0430 048 398 lindsay@newsofthearea.com.au

Marian SAMPSON 0414 521 180 marian@newsofthearea.com.au

Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au

Simon EKINS 0434 890 157 simon@newsofthearea.com.au

Jacie WHITFIELD 0411 556 079 jacie@newsofthearea.com.au

Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au

EDITOR

BUSINESS ADVERTISING

Tracey BENNETT 0484 263 558 tracey@newsofthearea.com.au

Independents launch campaign

A TEAM of independent candidates officially launched their council election campaign on 20 July at the Newcastle and Port Stephens Game Fish Club.

The group is led by Port Stephens Mayoral and East Ward candidate Mark Watson, who claimed 12.9 percent of first preference votes for the seat of Port Stephens in the 2023 state election.

Joining Mr Watson in contesting the September local government elections is Neil Turner in West Ward and Scott Leech in Central Ward.

“There is no room for big party politics in council,” said Mr Watson.

“We need a true independent movement in council asking the right questions and not being influenced by party politics.”

Ahead of the campaign launch, Mr Watson called for a “thorough independent investigation into funding from unions like the CFMEU into Labor campaigns”.

“You only have to look at the role in which unions are playing in the Hunter offshore wind farm and how they are trying to influence decisions.

“The biggest question I put forward is: can Labor be trusted?”

Mr Watson has a history of engaging in spats with Labor representatives, clashing publicly with Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington during last year’s NSW election.

While Mr Watson’s campaign has featured discussion on union funding and offshore wind projects, he stressed the importance of council getting its key responsibilities correct.

“We need to return to the basics within council, the ‘Three Rs’ - rates, roads and rubbish.

“This should be the main focus before feel-good projects.

“I find it no coincidence

that the outgoing council have voted for doubling the expenditure on road repairs and upgrades for the next

budget, the year they are up for election.

“Where was the focus every other budget?”

q Mayoral and East Ward candidate Mark Watson speaks at the Game Fish Club on Saturday night.

Clean energy sector rallies against nuclear 'mistruths'

By Marion RAE, AAP

THE clean energy industry has accused nuclear energy proponents of threatening the nation's fragile hold on vital economic reform with "mistruths and outright disinformation".

The Australian public are being confused and misled," Clean Energy Council chief executive Kane Thornton told the industry's annual summit in Sydney last Tuesday.

"We need to remember the vast majority want wind and solar and hydro to be central to our energy future," he told business leaders and investors.

He accused "bad faith actors" of preying on anxious communities who feared uncertainty after an energy crisis and amid ongoing costof-living pressures, which could be alleviated by cheaper renewable power.

"Vested interests are stepping up to tell their story and peppering it with mistruths and outright disinformation," Mr Thornton said.

Nuclear power was the "battering ram of bad faith actors" despite it being more expensive and two decades away at best, he said.

Australia has doubled its amount of renewable energy in the past five years and must

again by 2030, as coal-fired power plants are phased out and new electrified industries grow.

Coalition energy spokesman Keith Pitt, who says nuclear is the "only option" to achieve net zero emissions and keep the lights on, was due to address the summit on Wednesday.

Dismissing the nuclear debate as a "distraction", Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Jenny McAllister said it would leave "a pretty big gap" if the coalition pressed pause on renewables now to install nuclear power in the 2040s.

Announcing the fasttracking of a certification scheme for new exports, Senator McAllister said it would become increasingly important for businesses to be able to account for their products' emissions intensity to retain access to major markets.

"The guarantee of origin scheme will give Australian companies a competitive advantage by providing governmentbacked certification of the carbon intensity of key green products," she said.

A crucial component of the $22.7 billion Future Made in Australia program, the scheme begins with renewable hydrogen in 2025 before

expanding to sustainable aviation fuel, green steel and aluminium, and biomethane and biogas.

As the climate-accounting backbone of new green industries, it is designed to allow producers, exporters and users to prove where a product was made and the emissions associated with its production and transport.

Digital certificates, backed by proof of renewable energy use, will be used to establish eligibility for tax credits under the $6.7 billion Hydrogen Production Tax Credit announced in the May budget, and trigger the development of other new industries.

As almost all of Australia's trading partners have netzero commitments, official proof of emissions could avoid costly tariffs or trade bans on hydrogen or ammonia production that relies on coal or gas-fired electricity rather than renewable energy.

"Guarantee of origin is a key to new market opportunities for Australian energy exporters in the race to net-zero," Senator McAllister said.

The first Australia-India renewable energy dialogue was held alongside the Australian Clean Energy Summit, with India aiming for 50 percent renewable energy by 2030.

Despite being big coal and gas exporters and users, the two countries say they share a net zero commitment.

q Clean Energy Council CEO Kane Thornton is worried that bad faith actors are preying on the anxious. Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.

From MERYL’S DESK

G’day Paterson! I am excited to share with you some of the ways the Albanese Labor Government is supporting everyday Australians. From July 1 we’re giving every Australian a tax cut. Beyond that, you’ll see a $300 energy bill relief direct to your household (and another $325 for eligible small businesses). We are freezing the cost of PBS medications and giving a third consecutive pay rise for 2.6 million workers.

I am also pleased to provide updated information on the progress of the Hunter Offshore Renewable Energy Zone. Minister Chris Bowen has announced that Novocastrian Wind Pty Ltd has progressed to the next stage of the feasibility licensing process. This means that, if the license is issued, they will engage in consultation with First Nations groups, marine users, unions, and local communities to make sure that this major infrastructure project is developed and managed in a way that mitigates the impact towards all stakeholders. Only after all feasibility approvals and environmental assessments are conducted, can construction begin. Should the project go ahead, it would employ around 3,000 workers during construction and create around 200-300 permanent local jobs. It would inject development expenditure worth hundreds of millions of dollars into the Hunter region and leverage existing heavy industry. It could generate over 2 GW of electricity, equivalent to powering 1.2 million homes

As Chair of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Agriculture, I recently travelled to Western Australia to discuss our election promise to introduce legislation to end live sheep exports. I am grateful to have had this opportunity to listen to the lived experiences of those who attended and evaluate them alongside the 13,000 written submissions. Now, that the legislation has passed through Parliament we will continue to work to ensure the smooth transition away from live sheep export. To assist in this transition, we plan to invest $107 million to assist farmers to innovate their sustainable practises and prepare for the future of Australian agriculture. This is the responsible thing to do.

Listening to the community and looking towards the future. That is how we deliver meaningful change. As always, you can contact my office for support or advice on any federal issues. My Raymond Terrace office is open five days a week, where a member of my team can provide you with support or advice.

Together, we are building an economy that works for all Australians, not just some. Together, we are investing in a Future Made in Australia; a future for all Australians.

Check phones before 3G shutdown

By Thomas O'KEEFE

SHUTTING down of the 3G mobile network was postponed by the major telcos from 30 June to 31 August, but the new deadline is rapidly approaching.

After the recent CrowdStrike IT update error caused global chaos affecting many communications systems, local businesses and services were forced to rely upon personal mobile coverage.

“We had to return customer calls on our private phones, and don’t know if 3G is still an option or not,” Gaye from Mema’s Bakery in Tea Gardens told NOTA, echoing the concerns of many individuals and businesses around town.

Such concerns are justified, as several smartphone manufacturers pre-program even the latest phones to use 3G for 000 and other emergency calls.

Especially vulnerable are those from areas with the worst mobile signals, such as Pindimar, Bundabah and North Arm Cove.

Reacting to the outcry at their original announcement of intention to cease 3G mobile services, the major telecommunications providers, Telstra and Optus,

opted to give customers two extra months to sort out their handsets, but the end is still nigh.

All mobile phone users must be plainly aware: the full 3G shutdown is inevitable, as the radio spectrum it uses has already been earmarked for future telecommunications generation development, and must be cleared of all current users to be repurposed.

Vodafone/TPG has already closed their 3G services on the original 30 June deadline.

Telstra and Optus have made available a few relatively simple and free tools that customers can use to check if their current phone is going to have any problems when 3G is finally switched off, and Federal Minister for Communications, Michelle Rowland, urges every Australian to make sure.

“The Australian Mobile Telecommunications Association (AMTA) tool allows consumers to enter their device’s unique IMEI number to see if their handset will no longer have access Triple Zero after both Telstra and Optus plan to switchover to 4G and 5G from 1 September 2024.

“All Australians should

be aware that some 4G phones are configured by their manufacturer to default to 3G for Triple Zero calls, which means these devices will appear to work normally after the switchover, until Australians can least afford to realise there is an issue.

“If you have been contacted by your mobile phone provider alerting you of impact to your service, it is important you respond and take action.”

The easiest option is to simply text the digit ‘3’ to the special number ‘3498’, which will instantly return a message telling them whether or not they need to take action.

The website www.3gclosure.com.au has also been named by the Minister as a tool for users to check.

Importantly, customers will not be required to enter any personal information when using the tool, as it will simply check the handset’s configuration.

This situation is, however, ripe for scammers to take advantage, so all mobile phone users must remain vigilant, and never give out any personal information unless they are crystal-clear who they are giving it to.

q Texting the single digit ‘3’ to the number ‘3498’ will give Telstra and Optus users a clear response.

Network outage strikes close to home

By Thomas O’KEEFE

CASH became king again as another IT network outage hit on Friday 19 July.

This time the impacts were global.

CrowdStrike, a multibillion-dollar cybersecurity firm, had released an erroneous update to its worldwide customers, including Microsoft Windows, which failed to gel with the latter’s operating systems, resulting in widespread ‘Blue Screens of Death’ (BSOD).

The BSOD occurs when Windows systems cease to

function for no clear reason, and were witnessed across all sectors of the economy, from airport check-ins to supermarkets, bank ATMs and the TAB, to emergency services.

Locally, the worst-affected were organisations reliant upon long-distance networks, typically connections to Sydney headquarters, including anything with digital payment systems.

Supermarkets were thrown into temporary pandemonium, as shoppers without cash left unable to buy the basics.

Local businesses’ supply lines and customer interfacing also suffered.

“The phones would ring, but we couldn't hear the other end, so we had to jot down numbers and call them back on personal mobiles just to take their orders,” said Gaye from Mema’s Bakery on the Tea Gardens riverfront.

Tea Gardens Fire and Rescue staff, having lost the use of special personal pagers to the crash, kept one person in-station throughout Friday night.

“We were using our own private mobile phones to

communicate, after the person at the station received any calls over the landline,” Captain Jim Wisemantel explained.

The only backup option was the mobile networks, which are notoriously poor in many regional areas, especially the Myall Coast, and have suffered their own catastrophic failures recently too.

Many smaller businesses, however, were able to pull through, mainly due to their use of different systems, proving the value of diversity in technology, like any other field.

PM, Dutton struggling as preferred leaders

By AAP

ANTHONY Albanese

and Peter Dutton are struggling to attract a majority of voters to back them as the preferred leader of the respective parties, according to Newspoll.

The latest survey for The Australian showed only 28 percent of voters nominated Mr Albanese and Mr Dutton as their preferred leaders of their respective Labor and

coalition parties, ahead of five other chosen candidates.

For Labor, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek was backed by thirteen percent of voters while former leader Bill Shorten was the third pick among voters with ten percent support averaged across all demographics.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers enjoyed only eight percent support.

For the coalition, opposition Indigenous affairs spokeswoman Jacinta Nampijinpa Price was the next most favoured behind

Mr Dutton on fourteen percent followed by deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley at six percent.

The poll showed the coalition's primary vote lifted two points to 38 percent while Labor's also rose a point to 33 percent during a difficult fortnight for the government, which included the defection of Senator Fatima Payman to the crossbenches over her support of a Palestinian state.

Support for the Greens remained unchanged at thirteen percent while backing for those in the

"others" category - minority parties and independents - dipped two points to ten percent.

The survey showed One Nation was down one point to six percent.

On a two-party-preferred basis, Labor continues to lead the coalition by 51 percent to 49 percent - unchanged from the previous poll.

The Newspoll was conducted between July 15 and July 19 and interviewed 1258 voters throughout Australia.

q The infamous Blue Screen of Death haunted computers around the world, including this one at one Myall Coast emergency services office.

q A poll suggests 28 percent of voters back Peter Dutton and Anthony Albanese as preferred leaders. Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS.

In uenza is a common ailment at this time of year, but this year we need to be even more careful!

Avian in uenza (bird u) has been diagnosed near Sydney, and NSW is on high alert for cases in domestic or wild birds outside of this area. ankfully no cases have yet been identi ed in Port Stephens, but wild birds can transmit the virus.

For owners of pet birds and poultry we recommend:

1. Keeping birds indoors where possible and preventing access of wild birds to outdoor aviaries and enclosures.

2. Monitor birds for signs of avian in uenza including lethargy, sudden death, breathing di culties, diarrhoea, neurological signs

3. Maintaining excellent personal hygiene, and wearing protective equipment including gloves, face mask, eye shield for handling and cleaning

4. Notify the Emergency Animal Disease (EAD) Hotline by calling 1800 675 888 if you suspect a bird may have avian in uenza

5. Seek immediate medical attention if u-like symptoms develop following contact with wild or domestic birds.

All locals should be aware of the signs and notify the EAD Hotline if they observe potentially a ected wild birds. Attempts to handle these birds should not be made to limit personal risk.

Weed warriors want better regulation

PORT Stephens bushcare and landcare groups have welcomed the decision by the states and territories to support Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek's announcement of a national plan to tackle escaped garden plants and aquatic weeds.

In a statement released last week, EcoNetwork Port Stephens called out garden centres for contributing to the nation’s weed issue.

“Relying on garden centres such as Bunnings, and plant nurseries to do the right thing has not worked, despite available listings of garden plants most prone to becoming weeds,” an EcoNetwork spokesperson told NOTA.

“Regulation is urgently overdue and essential to protect our local biodiversity.

“In addition, it is frustrating and unfair for hardworking volunteers who give up their time to remove weeds from their neighbourhood parks and reserves to see these same plants on sale.”

Friends of Tomaree - Fishermans Bay coordinator Josephine O'Brien said garden centres continuing to sell these plants continues to create “extra work” for volunteers.

"Just look at the gazanias covering the headland at Fishermans Bay," she said.

"There are so many other invasive species that Bunnings sells that our local landcare groups remove - Dietes, Mother-in-Law's Tongue, non-local wattles, Fishbone fern, asparagus sp, Canna Lily.

“The list goes on."

"It's very disheartening seeing them for sale," she said.

q Removing Mother-in-Law's Tongue and Canna Lily from Fishermans Bay beach.

Port Stephens is now home to a huge number of weed species.

A few priority species are being targeted by Council's Invasive Species unit, such as Chinese Violet, which started off as garden escapee in Boat Harbour.

“However, there are many more that continue to thrive and disperse, or be dumped, from private gardens causing not only a direct threat to our local biodiversity, but creating extra work for our volunteer bushcare groups,” the EcoNetwork spokesperson said.

Sue Johnson, a volunteer bushcarer from the Salamander Bay/Soldiers Point Landcare group, said, "Gazanias pop up at all our sites - Wanda Headland, Sunset Beach, Seaview Crescent (Bannisters), Sandpiper Reserve and Wanda Wetlands."

Friends of Tomaree coordinator Sue Olsson said, “We are working hard to eradicate myrtleleaf milkwort (Polygala myrtifolia) in Tomaree National Park, from Zenith Beach, Box Beach and Tomaree summit, though it’s

prevalent on the adjacent Tomaree Lodge land."

Bushcare groups do not point blame at customers or residents who purchase these plants unwittingly, but they are keen to support any moves to regulate the garden industry to ensure they don't sell seeds or potted plants of many invasive varieties.

“For every plant sold that

has weed potential, there are many other similar options that people can choose,” the EcoNetwork spokesperson said.

“For instance, if you look up gazania on the 'Grow Me Instead' website, you will find delightful alternatives such as native cut-leafed daisies or fanflowers.”

q Gazanias growing on the Fishermans Bay-Anna Bay Headland.

Power Trip on offer to regional youth

YOUNG rural women and non-binary people from across regional New South Wales will have the opportunity to win a once-in-alifetime 'Power Trip' to the nation's capital.

Celebrating its tenth year, Country to Canberra’s prestigious Leadership Competition launched this week, opening the door for young rural leaders to embark on a five-day leadership experience designed to help them reach their leadership potential.

Successful entrants will meet with CEOs and politicians, undertake leadership training, tour Parliament House and have access to ongoing support and community as Country to Canberra alumni.

This year, entrants will draw from their own lived experiences in regional Australia as they answer the 2024 Leadership Competition question: ‘You can’t be what you can’t see. How do women and non-binary leaders in your community inspire you to make change?’.

Country to Canberra CEO Pauline Siteaud says ten years on, the Power Trip remains focussed on empowering young rural women and non-binary people to see and realise their leadership potential.

“At Country to Canberra, we view a rural upbringing as a strength, not a liability,” Ms Siteaud said.

“We know regional Australia is filled with inspiring and legacy-building leaders.

“We want entrants to reflect on how the leaders who have paved the way have inspired them in their leadership journey.”

2023 winner Milly McGrath, who grew up in Port Macquarie, says Country to Canberra’s Leadership Competition was transformative.

“The Power Trip was not only a chance to make

incredible friends, but also an opportunity to learn from inspiring women, empower my own development and push against the boundaries that try to tell me 'you can't',” Milly said.

For 2023 Dungog winner Gwen Rumbel, the Leadership Competition was an empowering experience.

“The Power Trip changed me by opening my eyes to

what leadership means in practice and on a larger scale than I had experienced,” Gwen said.

Country to Canberra is encouraging all eligible rural students in Grades 10-12 to take part.

For further details visit www.countrytocanberra. com.au.

Entries close 11.59 PM AEST, Friday 16 August 2024.

q The 2023 NSW competition winners.

q Friends of Tomaree NP volunteers removing Canna Lily at Fishermans Bay beach.

Dirty Dick's live theatre show

DIRTY Dick’s live theatre restaurant show comes to the Hawks Nest Golf Club on August 8.

Australia’s most popular themed event and theatre restaurant, Dirty Dick’s has presented its distinctive nights of medieval Old English fun and feasting to more than five million people over 50 years Australia-wide.

With its unique entertainment and two course dining set in a totally themed environment with a highly comical stage show, magnificent feasting and costumed serving staff, you will enjoy non-stop interactive fun in true olden day tradition.

Sing along, clap along and laugh along as you experience the hilarious antics, madcap merrymaking and "funtastic" festivities of this unforgettable night.

Join the fun at Hawks Nest Golf Club on Thursday, August 8.

Doors open at 5:45 pm.

Secure your tickets online or at reception for $85 per person, which includes a delicious two-course dinner and an evening filled with laughter!

q The Dirty Dick’s live theatre show is headed for Hawks Nest.

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Vacant land: Build

Not too far away you’ll find the local bowling club and marina, perfect for socialising and recreational activities.

Perched atop a scenic hill, you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding hinterland, providing a stunning natural backdrop for your future oasis.

Embrace the tranquillity and privacy this land affords, as it backs onto lush bushland, creating a serene environment.

Plus, the Nelson Bay town centre is only 1.5 kilometres away, seamlessly blending peaceful living with convenient access to shops, schools, and parks.

Thoughtfully designed house plans are able to be viewed , prioritising the northern orientation, maximising sunlight and natural breezes - ideal for sustainable living.

There certainly is ample space to create a home

that reflects your vision or an attractive investment property.

Nelson Bay is celebrated for its vibrant community and stunning landscapes, making it an ideal choice for first-time buyers and savvy investors.

This unique parcel ticks all the boxes for affordability, convenience, and lifestyle.

Don't miss out on the opportunity to secure a piece of Nelson Bay's charm at an unbeatable price.

Call Nelson Bay and Tilligerry Real Estate on 02 49 812655 seven days.

dream

Earthquake risks

A RISK assessment has found that Grahamstown Dam could be damaged in the event of an earthquake, prompting Hunter Water to immediately reduce the amount of water stored in the dam.

The risk assessment, undertaken with expert consultants and an independent expert panel, was submitted to the regulator Dams Safety NSW in early July.

The assessment found the largest risk to the dam walls, or embankments, is an earthquake, or a series of smaller ones close to the dam.

The review estimates that the risk of this occurring to the main embankment is calculated to be a 1 in 3,500year event, or a 0.03 percent chance of occurring in a single year.

Hunter Water Managing

Director Darren Cleary said while the review found that Grahamstown Dam continues to operate safely in both normal and flood conditions, it was critical to take decisive action to reduce the immediate risk to people and nearby properties, while longer-term solutions for the dam were developed.

“In response to the report findings, we’ll be slowly reducing the amount of water in the dam over the coming weeks to lower its overall storage to around 90 percent capacity.

“This means we reduce the amount of water that could potentially be released to low-lying areas downstream of the dam’s embankments (walls) if they are damaged in the unlikely event of an earthquake.

“We’ll maintain this water level, while we

proactively work through the report recommendations for additional short-term mitigation measures such as reviewing our emergency response plan, as well as developing longer-term, permanent upgrades to strengthen the dam walls.

“The safety of our community is paramount.

“I’d like to reassure our community that the dam continues to operate safely under normal conditions,” said Mr Cleary.

The assessment also found that the risks associated with earthquakes have existed since Grahamstown Dam was constructed 60 years ago.

“A detailed letter is in the mail today to residents and community members who live around Grahamstown Dam to inform them about the report findings and invite

Community walk for Leo the Lion

By Jacie WHITFIELD

A MOTHER’S intuition is fierce and undeniable.

q Constructed between 1956 and 1965, Grahamstown Dam is the Hunter’s largest drinking water supply dam.

them to attend one of the drop-in information sessions we’ll be holding.

“I encourage community members to attend if they would like to find out more

equivalent to his three-yearold peers”.

about the report or ask questions from our dam safety experts. We’ve also made available on our website a summary report of the findings, as well as

the full version of the risk assessment,” said Mr Cleary. For more information or to view the reports, visit www.hunterwater.com.au/ grahamstown

When Jacquie Cooper sensed there was something more complex behind her son Leo’s developmental mobility delays, the Soldiers Point registered nurse heeded her instincts, seeking help from her local maternal health centre.

Known as ‘Leo the Lion’ from birth, Jacquie noticed her brave hearted little boy was “slow to walk, and that he couldn’t climb stairs or run

It took referrals through a number of specialists before a blood test confirmed that Leo had a rare muscular disorder called Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD).

DMD is described as having a “fault” affecting the biggest gene in the human genome, the dystrophin gene.

Dystrophin is a protein found in all muscles, providing them with essential shock absorbing functions, stability and repair.

Without functional dystrophin, Leo will experience progressive muscle damage and decreased function and strength in his limbs and also his heart, lungs, diaphragm and the smooth muscles used for digestion and swallowing.

Jacquie and Chris have been processing the grief associated with envisioning a different and significantly shortened future for Leo.

Dreams of watching Leo

Friendship group thrives

By Marian SAMPSON

ENJOYING a recent membership boost which group veterans put down to people wanting to engage socially more post-Covid, the Port Stephens Friendship Group has been taking on some adventurous outings.

The local Friendship Group, whose ethos is all about getting out and socialising, recently took members on a six-day trip to the Jindabyne area.

The pristine scenery and company more than made up for the lack of snow.

“Highlights of the trip

included riding the chairlift at Thredbo, visiting Dead Horse Gap, Cooma with its murals and gaol, great evenings over dinner where the laughter was constant, and the wonderful organisation and drivers from Port Stephens Coaches,” said group president Keith Hobbs.

The group has also been enjoying a range of day trips.

“[This includes] visiting the barramundi farm at Salt Ash, whale watching where we saw over 30 whales and many breaches, and a cruise around Newcastle Harbour.

“Our planned future trips include Miss Porter’s house in Newcastle, and a visit to an open-cut coal mine.

“Others are all in the early

stages of planning,” Keith said.

These trips are coupled with monthly events such as

“do normal things like ride a bike, trampoline, travel the world, and play football competitively” have been reimagined and for now, Leo enjoys “exploring rock pools, playing mini golf, building towers and watching Paw Patrol”.

Admitting to a “head in the sand” response following Leo’s initial diagnosis, Chris and Jacquie are grateful to have been coaxed along by the community’s support and the learning, awareness and treatment options being developed through association with the Duchenne community.

Jacquie told News Of The Area that within the daily “feeling of helplessness” she felt an impulse to walk for her son, literally.

Jacquie’s impetus initiated a fundraising and awareness event called Lions Walk, which will roll out over the wilds of the Tomaree Coastal Walk on Saturday, 31 August.

Participants may walk

bowls sessions, happy hours and coffee days.

“The group has been in existence for 29 years in Port Stephens and is an avenue for

the entire 26 kilometres (km) for Leo and others in the Duchenne community, or opt for alternative entry points, completing as little as three km before convening for celebratory drinks at the Shoal Bay Country Club from 4pm.

Leo’s preschool friends have been making unisex sized t-shirts if you are unable to attend the walk.

Direct donations are also possible via the links in the ‘lions.walk’ bios on Instagram and Facebook.

Jacquie hopes to encourage others to follow the intuition and alertness that’s amplified when it comes to protecting and raising children.

Jacquie, Chris, Bobby and Leo look forward to seeing all proceeds raised going directly towards finding a cure for this irreversible, degenerative disease.

They thank the Port Stephens community for their generosity.

people over the age of 50 to meet, mix, socialise, laugh and look forward to the tours and activities on a weekly and monthly basis,” Keith said.

q Port Stephens Friendship Group members on the recent trip to Jindabyne.

q Chris, Leo, Jacquie and Bobby.

Forest regeneration at One Mile

ON Saturday morning, 27 July, the Friends of Tomaree National Park will engage in bush regeneration on the One Mile/Morna headland.

“The Tomaree Coastal Walk provides so many locals and visitors with wonderful experiences exploring our dramatic coastline, and one

of the most spectacular is the One Mile/Morna headland,” said coordinator Sue Olsson.

“The Friends of Tomaree National Park are inviting you to a terrific morning of bush care as we give a helping hand to regenerate the bush and improve the resilience of the coastal forest on this

spectacular headland.

“Through the morning we will learn about the native vegetation here, and find out how to deal with some of the invasive weeds.

“We’ll be removing weeds and preparing the site for some future native planting.”

More information and registration is available at https://events.humanitix. com/regen-one-mile

Op shop celebrates fifteen years

TUCKED away in the far corner of the Kooinda Centre in Tanilba Bay is a hidden trove of treasures.

Celebrating fifteen years of operation, Tilligerry locals affectionately call it ‘The Church Shop’.

In 2009 Church 4 Life had a weekly community dinner, Sunday church services and a thriving kids and youth program running in Tanilba Bay, so opening an op shop to serve locals seemed a natural next step.

On 27 July, in a much smaller space than today, Pastor Richard and Lesley Nash opened the doors to a brand new op shop and invited the community in.

Over the last fifteen years a beautiful shop has grown to become a place where customers find more than affordable groceries, clothes and household items.

They find someone who cares, a helping hand when needed, a place to give back, new friends and real

community. Thousands of people have found practical help, connection and new hope.

People like Chloe, who was so desperate financially that she was using dish washing liquid as body soap until she came into the op shop.

There she was helped with a hamper and an encouraging chat.

And Violeta, a single Mum, who came looking for part time local work and found friendship, purpose and new confidence.

“When we opened the doors, we had no idea how big an impact we’d have on the Tilligerry, or how big an impact they would have on our lives.

“Only God knew the amazing gifts this op shop

would bring so many people,”

Pastor Richard shared.

Gail Taylor, Managing Director of Church 4 Life Charities, said, “We wouldn’t be here without the fantastic ongoing local support.

“Our 15th Birthday Celebration and a fifteen percent storewide sale this Saturday 27 July is our way of celebrating and saying thanks to our community.”

If you come and peek

Halogen phase-out: light bulb moment for energy savings

By Marion RAE, AAP

AUSTRALIANS could cut their power bills - and carbon emissions - one light bulb at a time as halogen lighting is switched off in homes and offices.

Halogen will be phased out and new standards set for digital signage displays under tougher national standards agreed with industry and announced on Monday.

Longer-lasting LED bulbs use significantly less electricity, won't burn your fingers like traditional light bulbs, and are widely used for Christmas displays and smart lighting kits.

Since the early 2000s, Australia has replaced about half of its traditional incandescent tubes and bulbs with LED lights.

Swapping the final half could save $8 billion a year and avoid nearly eight million tonnes of emissions, according to Assistant Minister for Climate Change

and Energy Jenny McAllister.

"Calculations show that by switching ten halogen lamps to LED lamps, Australian families could benefit up to $229 a year," she said.

Over ten years, the average household would be $2138 better off from greater energy efficiency and bulb replacement costs, and avoid an estimated three tonnes of carbon emissions.

The Sydney Opera House uses over 15,500 light bulbs each year and in 2014 replaced hundreds of incandescent light bulbs with 355 custom-made LED lights that each have a life-span of 50,000 hours.

This slashed the power bill by around three quarters for an estimated savings of around $75,000 a year, according to data released by the federal energy department.

Lighting Council Australia commended the federal government for what it said was a "commonsense

approach" on phasing out inefficient halogens where there was an LED alternative available on the market.

"Customers are becoming more and more aware of what light bulbs provide them both the best bang for their buck and are the most environmentally friendly," the industry body's chief executive Malcolm Richards said.

LED lighting is ten times more efficient than halogen or incandescent lights and up to four times more efficient than compact fluorescent bulbs.

"This is even more important at a time when all Australians are keeping a close eye on their energy bills," he said.

New minimum energy performance standards will be set for washing machines and dishwashers and increased for computer monitors and television screens.

inside the shop, it only takes a moment to see the real treasures are the team members like Debbie, Zeljka and Violeta, and regular customers like Paul, Liz, Greg, Len and Lisa.

q Katrina, Gail and Zeljka.

q Gail Taylor, Managing Director of Church 4 Life Charities.

q Australia has replaced about half its traditional incandescent tubes and bulbs with LED lights. Photo: Steven Saphore/AAP PHOTOS.

OUTLETS

Where you can pick up your paper

If your business stocks the paper and you are not listed here, please email us.

media@newsofthearea.com.au

Anna Bay Tavern

Anna Bay Bakery

BYO Cellars Anna Bay

Ingenia Holiday Park

Middle Rock Retirement Village

Anna Bay Village

Seawinds Village

Nelson Bay Bowling Club

Nelson Bay Golf Club

Woolworths Nelson Bay

Nelson Bay Newsagent

Nelson Bay Real Estate

Coles Express Servo Nelson Bay

Seabreeze Hotel

Port Stephens Visitor Info Centre

Tackleword Port Stephens

Essence Cafe

Dolphin Watch Cafe

West Diggers

Harbourside Haven

Bernie Thompson Village

Shoal Bay Pharmacy

IGA Shoal Bay

John Patterson

Bill King Aged Care

Friendly Grocer Fingal Bay

Kreative Space Studio Fingal Bay

Regis Aged Care

Corlette Store

Uniting Care

Homestead Village

Sandy Shores

Big4 Soldiers Point

Soldiers Point Bowling Club

Foodworks Salamander Bay

Wanda Beach Pharmacy

Mobil Salamander Bay

Caltex Salamander Bay

Coles Salamander Bay

Natural Tucker

Woolworths Salamander Bay

Horizons Golf Club

Sunrise Lifestyle Resort

Seaham General Store

Opal Aged Care

Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace

Angeez Takeaway Raymond Terrace

Pet Parlour Raymond Terrace

Terrace Central Plaza Post Office

Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza

Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza

MarketPlace Woolworths

Raymond Terrace Shell

Raymond Terrace Library

Lakeside Newsagent

R&R Property

Foodworks Lakeside

Lakeside Leisure Centre

Muree Golf Club

Saxby's Bakery Salt Ash

Tanilba Bay Nursing Home

Tanilba Bay Retirement Units

Coles Tanilba Bay

Endevour Servo Tanilba Bay

Tanilba Newsagent

Post Office Tanilba Bay

Blue Marine Services

Chemist Lemon Tree

Club Lemon Tree

Tilligerry RSL

Tilligerry Real Estate

Coles Medowie

7-Eleven Medowie

Medowie Newsagent

Medowie Pharmacy

Woolworths Medowie

Medowie Social

Medowie Football Club

BP Servo Medowie

Pacific Dunes Golf Club

Metro Servo (Airport Side)

Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)

Stargazing: Kids ask the best space questions

By Dave RENEKE, Astronomer

KIDS have a natural curiosity about the world around them, and space is no exception!

Here are some interesting questions kids often ask in my school outreach programs:

Why is the sky dark at night?

Ah, the answer has to do with the vastness of space.

The stars are very far away, and their light is spread out over a huge area. By the time it reaches Earth, it's too faint for our eyes to see all the stars at once.

However, if you travel to a place with very little light pollution, you can see many more stars, and the night sky can appear quite bright!

Are there aliens out there?

This is perhaps the most famous astronomy question of all!

Scientists don't know the answer yet, but they are looking for signs of life elsewhere in the universe.

There are billions of galaxies out there, each with billions of stars, so it seems statistically likely that there must be other planets that could support life

Can I touch a star?

No, you definitely cannot touch a star!

Stars are giant balls of burning gas that are incredibly hot.

Even if you could somehow travel through space without getting burned up, stars are so far away that it would take us millions of years

to get to one with our current technology.

What is a black hole?

Black holes are some of the most mysterious objects in the universe.

They are regions of space where gravity is so strong that not even light can escape.

Scientists are still learning about how black holes work, but they believe that they are formed when massive stars collapse in on themselves.

What is the sun made of?

Our sun is a giant ball of hot plasma, which is a state of matter made up of charged particles.

The sun's gravity pulls these particles together, and the pressure and heat in the core cause nuclear fusion to take place.

This is the process that releases the light and energy that we receive here on Earth.

Why are all the planets round?

Planets are mostly made up of loose material, like rock and gas.

Gravity pulls this material inward from all directions, causing it to clump together into a sphere, which is the most efficient way to distribute mass with the least amount of surface area.

Why do some planets have rings?

Rings are made up of dust and ice particles orbiting a planet.

They might come from leftover debris from the planet's formation or collisions with moons or asteroids.

Saturn's rings are the most famous, but Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune also have rings, though they're fainter.

What are constellations?

Constellations are patterns of stars that people have imagined to look like animals, people, or objects.

They were used for navigation by ancient cultures and are still fun to find in the night sky today.

Is there an end to space?

This is a mind-boggling question that scientists are still trying to understand.

Our current knowledge suggests the universe keeps

going on forever, but it might be infinitely curved in on itself!

Could we ever travel to other planets?

Space travel is getting more advanced all the time!

We've already sent probes to explore other planets, and one day, who knows, maybe humans will be able to travel to them too.

It would take a very long time though, because of the vast distances involved.

What are asteroids and comets?

Asteroids are rocky leftovers from the formation of our solar system. Comets are icy objects that orbit the sun and develop tails made of gas and dust when they get close.

Both can sometimes hit planets, but thankfully, this is very rare.

These are just a few of the many interesting questions that kids ask about astronomy.

By encouraging their curiosity, we can help them develop a lifelong love of learning about the universe.

The Big Screen with Lindsay Hall

By Lindsay HALL

THIS week is expected to be completely dominated by a single blockbuster release, meaning that international distributors are taking the opportunity to filter in some much delayed foreign fare, while Aussie families will have the chance to (hopefully) enjoy a home grown offering.

Tótem is a Spanish language film that first saw release in early 2023, hitting festivals around the world to garner almost unanimous praise.

From the perspective of seven-year-old Sol (Naíma Sentíes), the film depicts a day spent with the family preparing for what is likely to be the last birthday party for her terminally ill father.

Writer and director Lila Avilés clearly crafts stories from a deeply personal and emotional reserve, but that does not mean the film stumbles into overly saccharine sentimentality.

As the characters reflect on their relationships to one another, and confront the reality of death before them, the celebrations seem to become

something kind of profound. It’s not the kind of film that generally “competes” at the box office, but if you’d like to think, and feel, a bit more deeply, just make sure you pack some tissues.

Coming even later after it was first released in 2022 is the French comedy Wilderness Therapy

Sharing a similar attitude to films like The Full Monty, this adventurous farce sees loveable losers Richard and Ludo (Philippe Rebbot and Pio Marmaï) pose as guides for a horseback tour of the Pyrénées, only to lead their “guests” into one disaster after another.

French comedies tend to be fairly close in sensibility to the English-speaking world, and this one contains plenty of laughs, along with genuinely impressive cinematography that shows off the immense beauty of an untamed part of the world that at some points makes Wilderness Therapy feel like a Western flick.

Hoping to make an impact on its home turf is an animated feature from Australian company Like A Photon Creative, The Sloth Lane

When a massive storm forces a family of Sloths to relocate their lives, they try to make ends meet by turning their beat-up van into a food truck, where they operate using the sacred family recipe book.

When they start building a measure of success, they become the target of a cheetah who owns a failing chain of fastfood restaurants.

Australian animation has had more opportunity to thrive in recent years thanks to the incredible international success of Bluey.

This film, while not quite hitting the poignance that the family of Blue Heelers seem to manage on a daily basis, is still full of wit and charm, and most importantly it has enough to engage the parents when they accompany their kids.

To be honest, though, there’s little chance of it making much of a splash as most families will likely be reserving their cinema outing for this year's sole release from Marvel Studios, Deadpool & Wolverine

Audiences are well past the point where they’re either on board with the whole Marvel juggernaut or are done

completely.

This third entry in the more esoteric, action-comedy series has nothing that will change anyone’s minds.

More over-the-top violence with an unceasingly flippant lead character (Ryan Reynolds); more set-ups that will allow characters from one film to appear in this one (or viceversa); more breaking of the fourth-wall to address the audience directly.

The whole appeal of this one is based entirely on the online ‘rivalry’ between the two stars, Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.

Played for laughs for a number of years as the pair took turns sledging each other in support of good causes, it seems to have culminated in Reynolds convincing Jackman to appear once more as the character that launched him to superstardom.

If their buddy-comedy routine appeals, then you’ll enjoy what’s on display.

Just go in forewarned: you will be expected to then watch about 30 hours of Disney Plus shows in order to understand who most of the background characters are.

OPINION & LETTERS

From the Mayor’s desk

By Ryan PALMER Mayor, Port Stephens Council

JUST a few weeks ago, the NSW Government released the latest data on Development Application processing times for Councils across the State.

Last financial year, Port Stephens Council assessed 587 DAs with a total value of over $297.5 million.

These DAs were assessed in an average time of 61 days, well below the State average of 115 days, and faster than that of our neighbours in Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Macquarie and Cessnock.

Improving our DA assessment timeframes has been a key priority for Council for a number of years.

We’ve put together a dedicated team to fast-track DA lodgements and are working to integrate our systems with the NSW Planning Portal – this means things are more efficient, speeding up the whole process.

This investment in improving DA assessment time frames have been part of a bigger focus for Council - housing supply, affordability and diversity is impacting many in our community.

As house prices continue to rise, more people have been forced to look outside of Port Stephens for a place to live.

We want to ensure everyone has a place to call home - whether they are health, aged care or hospitality workers wanting to live close to work, a family raising young children or residents looking to downsize as they grow older.

With all this in mind, we know there is still work to be done.

We have recently secured a Federal Government grant to help us further reduce red tape to make it easier, quicker and more affordable to lodge a DA.

We’ll be looking to fast track assessments for single houses, granny flats and subdivisions and simplify the application process.

We’ll also be working to attract investment to more housing types around our town centres by promoting the advantages of investing in Port Stephens.

We want everyone to know how much Port Stephens has to offer and that we’ll be doing everything we can to create new opportunities for a more inclusive community where everyone can find a place to call home.

Together, our efforts will attract new residents and investors, driving economic growth and setting Port Stephens up for a bright and prosperous future.

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN

Help needed

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

ANYONE who takes an interest in local history would know exactly what I mean when I say that it is very frustrating when a photograph lands on your desk and you have no idea of its origin.

Such is the case with the photos on display.

I have absolutely no leads as to who took the photos, where they were taken and who are those featured.

I am hoping that you can help identify the subjects and untangle the mysteries that these photos present.

Please contact me if you have any information at stinkerfishing@yahoo.com.

DEAR Jasminda,

MY husband Glenn enjoys making spontaneous arrangements whereas I am someone who needs to plan.

An example would be, 'I just had a call from Pete and Jude. They're dropping in sometime today.'

He thinks I should be more easy going. What do you think?

Ursula R.

Dear Ursula,

I'M going to deviate from stereotypical male/ female roles, because I'm sure there are many men out there who also need to feel organised before guests arrive, but from my experience, there is usually one person in a couple who runs around like a lunatic, dusting cobwebs, plumping cushions, lighting scented candles, whipping together grazing plates, and ensuring the bathroom is open-heart-surgery sterile.

Then, there's the other party who says, 'Sure Pete, come on over, I think there's a six-pack in the fridge. We'll rustle up a feed. Hey Ursula, Pete's coming over. Pete, bring Jude. Are your kids home? We'd love to see them. How are Johnny's tennis lessons going? Maybe we could have a friendly volley in the backyard. Ursula, have you seen my tennis racket?'

This is often thrown on Ursula (or her equivalent) when she's just emptied the entire contents of the pantry for its annual spring clean, or she's plonked herself on the lounge to binge on Bridgeton and Pete and Jude are not on her radar.

Now they are.

She's wondering if Jude is still lactoseintolerant and whether they'll end up staying the night, which will require changing the sheets in the spare bedroom.

She's wondering if the ladder is handy so she can get to the mezzanine, which is where she last saw the tennis rackets.

She's wondering whether she can throw together a meal, get to the bottle shop, shave her legs and/or feign a migraine.

There is really only one answer here, and that's to have an adult conversation about your different personalities and how you can both adjust to make socialising a pleasure for all those involved (including Pete and Jude, who are certain to sense tension in the air when you aim for Glenn's head during the social game of tennis).

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Community not pleased with pathway

DEAR News Of The Area,

I REFER to the article in the Port Stephens News Of The Area dated 18/7/2024 which referred to Brandy Hill Drive 'Shared Pathway Works'.

Just a few words from a very unhappy resident.

I am sure if you actually

asked all the residents and not just the Mayor, on their views, you would get a better idea of how they feel about a pathway that goes nowhere.

Also speak to those who will be losing some of their property through compulsory acquisition so the pathway can be constructed and

receiving very little compensation. No problem with proper bus stops.

One of the long outstanding problems is the actual road itself, it has needed upgrading for many years and numerous requests have, how can I put it, been ignored, with only an email acknowledging receipt from Council.

Regards, Larry GREENFIELD, Brandy Hill.

READING by Lynne Miles: 2 Corinthians 9: 6 "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, but whoever sows generously will also reap generously."

Walker rescued after fall

A WALKER was winched to safety from Yacaaba by helicopter on Monday, following a heavy fall on an isolated trail.

Local ambulance paramedics and emergency services attended the location and commenced treatment of the patient prior to the arrival of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter and critical care medical team.

Due to the terrain in the area the helicopter's critical care medical team were winch inserted into the scene.

The patient was stabilised by the helicopter's critical care medical team before stretcher winched from the location and flown direct to the John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle in a stable condition suffering from multiple injuries.

Fingal loses a legend

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

THIS week the Fingal community celebrated and mourned the life and passing of its oldest resident, Kenny Barry. Ken arrived in Fingal in 1930 as an eighteen-month child with his parents Jack and Phyllis.

Fingal’s first family built a shack near

the freshwater creek that flows into the sea and it was no surprise when sixteen-yearold Ken became a commercial fisherman.

It was he who brought the first motorised boat into Fingal. ‘Clatterbang’ made a noise that no one, bird or animal had ever heard.

Respected by all, Ken will forever remain the face of Fingal Bay.

Gift card scams

By Thomas O’KEEFE

SCAMS come in many forms, and the latest to be spotlighted by major supermarkets is the ‘gift card scam’, prompting active awareness campaigns by Coles and Woolworths.

DISTRIBUTING TO: Nelson Bay, Salamander Bay, Raymond Terrace, Shoal Bay, Tilligerry Peninsula, Fingal Bay, Medowie, Williamtown, Seaham, Anna Bay, Salt Ash, Soldiers Point, and everywhere in between!

Gift card scams involve an initial ‘phishing’ stage, in which victims receive a vaguely worded, yet urgentlytoned email, ‘alerting’ them to pay off a debt by purchasing gift cards and handing over their activation codes.

Targets are instructed to purchase a relatively high dollar-value in gift cards (often hundreds of dollars) from a local supermarket, or to visit several locations to buy smaller quantities.

The simple truth is that gift cards are not a form of legal currency, and can never be used to pay off a debt.

No legitimate government nor corporate organisation will ever ask nor accept gift cards as a debt-payment option.

Coles’ and Woolworths’

official websites contain very clear and specific information on how to easily detect and avoid all manner of scams, complete with visual examples.

“Coles advises customers to be aware of text messages, phone calls, websites, competitions and other unsolicited contact that use the Coles brand without Coles’ permission or which promote Coles Gift Cards or other gift cards in an attempt to appear legitimate,” said a Coles spokesperson.

“Coles will never request personal or banking details in unsolicited communications and legitimate businesses or government agencies will never request payment in gift cards.”

Other scam tactics include, but are not limited to: unsolicited customer satisfaction surveys that promise a reward at completion; sharing/liking a Facebook post in exchange for a gift card/voucher; calling a specific phone number and providing personal

q Coles supermarkets feature this clear warning amongst their myriad gift cards for sale.

information; clicking on an email that links with a malicious website; requesting access to your computer when you have not reported an issue.

Everyone should be intelligently vigilant, and reject any ‘prize’, offer or survey that they did not explicitly request, and always verify the sender of any suspicious or unsolicited correspondence via an alternate method.

For example, if contacted via email, call them back; if messaged, check the official website; and never use links within the message itself.

Just Googling it is not enough, as Google takes no responsibility for any search results, and scammers can manipulate their content to appear at the top of some Google searches, thus preying on unsuspecting internet users’ innate desire to use the first result.

Remaining silent is only making the scammers' job easier, so if you have a concern, you should tell someone, and ask for help.

q There are many, many gift cards these days, but none of them can be used to pay off debts.

q Young Ken Barry became a highly respected commercial fisherman.

q VALE Kenny Barry.

Stinker’s History: The Boat Harbour crew

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

BOAT Harbour is a special place.

A naturally protected cove ideal for mooring with a small sandy beach suitable for launching fishing boats.

Historically these included the ‘Imp’, ‘Star’, ‘Snapper’ and ‘Garfish’ owned by the Richardson and Pain families.

The working boats were winched out of the water when the swell rose in big seas.

Although considered an outpost, distance was never a problem for the residents of the tiny community, who would ride horses or walk along the sandy tracks to Nelson Bay to attend dances or to collect supplies.

The Richardsons from Telarah were like many families during the Depression years; they simply tried to survive by making a living as best they could.

It was 1931 when Alfred ‘Gaff’ Richardson, an out of work miner, and his young wife Mary Annie, packed all their camping gear into their T Model Ford and headed for the tiny fishing village of Boat Harbour.

That was it for Mary Annie.

“I’m not going back,” she said.

As far as she was concerned, she could feed her growing family off the sea and enjoy a better life.

It was nothing for her to walk the ten miles to Harry Blanch’s Nelson Bay store to collect her food

coupons and gather the basics and head home to lay a wooden floor in their “humpy”.

To pay for the basic provisions ‘Gaff’, like many at the time, shovelled shell grit off the beach for 2/6 pence a bag.

The couple had four sons.

Joe, a carrier with Neville Blanch and Tommy, Bill and George - all fishermen.

The boys worked the rich reefs from Fishermans Bay to Birubi in their Simplex-driven putt-putt, ‘Imp’, setting traps for lobsters and handlining for fish, mainly snapper.

During the travelling season, when huge schools of fish, particularly mullet, moved north along the beaches, the Richardsons joined with the Pain family to form what was known as the ‘Boat Harbour Crew’.

Others in the crew during the early years included Vic Skilton, who arrived in 1917, Tommy Bagnall, and occasionally Tom’s sister Myrtle Taylor, one of the very few women to hold a professional fishing licence.

Professional fishing was difficult as there was no ice available to keep the fish in good condition and no fisherman’s co-op to market their catch.

The fish were sold locally in wooden boxes covered with sawdust to keep them cool.

The Pain connection to Boat Harbour commenced when William Skilton from Stockton purchased the “ridge”, a 50 acre block of land back

Fredrick Ralph Pain from Maitland married one of William’s daughters, Florry, and their family settled in Boat Harbour, raising three sons and two daughters.

Son George, born in 1916, began fishing early and was later joined by brothers Ab and Jim who spent some years growing vegetables for the Army.

The Pain’s boats included the ‘Garfish’, ‘Butterbox’, referred to by many of the fishermen as ‘Norco’, and the ‘Kon Tiki’ built at Anna Bay.

Like all fishing families they

recall the humour of the day.

On this occasion George was perched high up on the lookout tower, a flimsy structure, waiting for mullet to move around the rocky headland and enter the harbour.

Because of the sun’s glare on the water George couldn’t see the school of fish moving, so he climbed down from the lookout and climbed up a nearby banksia tree which offered a better, more shaded, view of the fish.

Unfortunately for George the branch on which he was standing snapped and he fell heavily onto the rocks below, breaking his wrist

Stinker’s Fishin’: It’s a funny old game

By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE

IT never ceases to amaze me just how fishing becomes an obsession for some.

It seems that what I call recreational fishing is to others a life challenge.

As a result of this incredible desire to catch fish, fishing has become a huge industry evident by the size of tackle stores and the extent of items on display.

My family worked in a sports and tackle store in Tweed Heads back in the 1960s when fishing was very different to what it is today.

All fishing rods were rangoon cane, runners were porcelain and all reels were side cast Alveys.

All hooks were what we called French and I never saw a silver hook until a fellow named Len Thompson, who had an engineering works in Currumbin (QLD), linked three hooks together to catch tailor.

Tweed Heads Fishing Club, which had a hundred active members, boasted many Australian champions. Recreational fishing was a very big part of life growing up.

No one had much money so recreational fishermen went fishing to catch fish for the table, to give a few to friends or in some cases sell a few on the side; never did I hear the term ‘catch and release’.

The only fish that were released were those too small for the pan.

I can’t recall ‘bag limits’ of ‘size limits’ being enforced to a great degree as most would keep fishing until the bait ran out.

Yabbies and mullet gut for bream, poddy mullet for flathead, worms for whiting and sea gar and pilchards for tailor and mulloway.

Never did I see a plastic or hard bodied lure, although ‘spinning’ for tailor with a silver spoon was popular off Snapper Rocks or Currumbin Rock.

Everyone I knew had one rod and one reel which served to catch everything from whiting in the estuary to mulloway off the beach.

A cane creel was slung off the hip and no one wore shoes.

Old shorts, a footy jumper and

a baggy hat was the outfit of choice.

A damp, ready rubbed cigarette dangled out of the corner of most lips.

How very different!

Today many who go fishing have more rods than golfers have clubs, one for every occasion.

Lures of all shapes and sizes are becoming more popular than bait and the rods and reels are masterpieces of science.

One variable remains constant and that is the desire to go fishing for whatever reason.

Through the week I met a young fellow, Byron Yell, and his family from Lake Macquarie holidaying in Fingal Bay over the school holidays.

His dad had no interest in fishing however Byron could think of nothing else.

and dislocating fingers and severely bruising ribs and his back.

On arrival at the hospital, in a sad and sorry state, the matron quizzed George: “How did this happen?”

“I fell out of a tree,” George groaned.

“What were you doing up a tree Mr Pain? You’re a bit too old to be climbing trees,” continued the matron.

“I was looking for fish,” replied George in considerable pain.

“How many beers have you had sir?” she said.

His greatest desire was to catch a salmon but he didn’t know where to start.

Every time I saw him he had a knapsack and landing net strapped to his back and a rod in his left hand.

This kid was on a mission.

“Try Fingal Beach between the surf club and the spit, early morning on sunrise.

“Toss a strip of mullet or a silver spoon and – hang on!” These were my words of wisdom.

Next morning I received a thankyou and a photo of a successful outing.

Funny game fishing.

behind the old sand dunes.

q The Pain and Richardson families hauling mullet off Boat Harbour Beach.

q Young Byron Yell eventually caught his salmon.

Medowie thump Singleton

By Chris KARAS

MEDOWIE Rugby Club are celebrating one of their finest victories in the 2024 Hunter Suburban Mens Rugby competition.

Josh Murphy’s fastimproving Marauders

trounced fifth ranked Singleton Black Bulls 50-17 last weekend at Boyd Oval to chalk up their third win of the season.

In an entertaining tussle, the Medowie side crossed for eight tries with interchange utility James Newall bagging

a hat-trick to cap a strong display.

Classy fly half Brayden Braley scored a try and five goals and spearheaded the Marauders attack with his astute kicking game, clever passing and sharp running.

Dashing Medowie

fullback Jacob Montgomery was another player to impress – menacing the Singleton defence with his pace and footwork to notch a try double.

Other try scorers for the Marauders were experienced centre and skipper Roland Tydd and dynamic number seven Niko Vakawaidomo, who was never far from

$1300 raised for Bears Of Hope

By Chris KARAS

THEY may have lost on the scoreboard but Port Stephens Power AFL senior womens team came away winners after the Joey Potter Round at Ferodale Oval.

On a day that perpetuates the memory of Joey Potter – the stillborn son of original Power vice captain and star ruck Rose Potter and husband Steve – the Port Stephens club helped raise over $1300 for the Stillbirth Australia and Bears of Hope movements.

All-conquering Lake Macquarie, the undefeated leaders in the AFL Hunter Central Coast Black Diamond Plate competition, had too many big guns for

Josie Johnson’s Power side but were quick to donate to the cause.

“The Port Stephens club would like to thank the local sporting public for their generous contributions to such an important day,” an emotional Josie told News Of The Area.

“Rose and Steve still have strong connections to our club and are wonderful ambassadors that have remained close to our team.

“They still volunteer their services throughout the year with Steve umpiring the clash against Lake Macquarie and Rose taking on the role of first aid officer,” she added.

Joey Potter would have turned five this year.

q Rose

the action with his robust tackling and power running.

The Medowie forwards paved the way with Vakawaidomo, props Jake Lightbody and Daniel Carmody, hooker Carl Newson, back rowers Jonathon Abel, Eric Tolhurst, flanker Cooper Stone and number eight Sam Ellul turning in non-stop

performances.

Smart half back Samuel Stokes combined well with Braley and Montgomery – enabling wingers Lucas Morgan and Luke Stokes and centres Tydd and Kyron Wood to make an impact out wide. Medowie Marauders lock horns with the Pokolbin Reds this Saturday at Drain Oval from 3pm.

Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association

By Gary WATT

RESULTS from a Stableford competition played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 15th July 2024 with 34 players.

Nett Winner : Warren Deuis, 35pts c/b

Nett Runner Up : Ian Dean, 35pts.

Bonus Point Winner : Ray Stubbs, 37pts.

Bonus Point Runner Up : Col Kerrison, 35pts.

Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole : Div 1 : Gary Watt. Div 2 : Bob Sellick. Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole, : Div 1 : Gary Watt. Div 2 : Ian Dean.

Drive & Chip, 7th Hole, Div 1 : Ron McKay.

& Chip, 18th Hole,

1 : Gary Watt.

Div 2 : Ian Dean.

Ball Winners : Gary Watt 32pts, Robert Paul 32pts, Steve Robards 32pts, Alan Stark 31pts, Ron McKay 31pts, Brian Marshall 31pts, Michael Best 31pts, Bob McKeand 29pts, Graham Woolley 29pts, Michael Day 28pts, and Bill McMaster 28pts.

Lucky Prize Draw Winner Steve Robards. Next weeks game is at Tanilba Bay GC and is a 8:00am start.

Visitors are welcome any Monday, please ring Gary Watt on 49814536 for starting times.

Tanilba Bay Tuesday Veterans Golfers 50+

By Ian WILLIAMS

SORRY for the lateness of this announcement.

Its with great sadness that tell you of the passing of long time member Max Harrison. Max is survived by his wife Carol and two daughters, we pass on our condolences to them and their families.

Max's funeral was held last Friday at Petigrew Funerals of Mayfield West.

Vale Max, you are truly missed.

DAY/DATE: TUESDAY 16th JULY '24

TIME, 8.30 Tee Time.

22 players braved the near freezing westerly wind for an interesting round of golf. At least it didn't rain this week. EVENT: STROKE FRONT NINE: NETT WINNER: Joe Croci ... nett 34 RUNNER UP:

Tilligerry Social Golf Club

19/7/24

OUTRIGHT winner.

John McDonald. 72 c/b

Runner up.

Matt Baldwin. 72 Bonus points winner.

Ed Martin. 75 Runner up.

John Clayton.

Adam Cowie ... nett 35

BALL WINNERS:

Barry Disch ... nett 37

Steve Enderby ... nett 43

Grahame Glover ... nett 45

NTP WINNER:

A not won

B not won C not won

DRIVE & CHIP WINNER:

A Barry Disch

B not won

C Joe Croci

BACK NINE:

NETT WINNER:

Kim Miller ... nett 39 c/b

RUNNER UP:

Barry Geraghty ... nett 39

BALL WINNERS: Garry Payseno ... nett 40

Tony Hodskiss... nett 40

Greg Garvin ... nett 40

Len Hardes ... nett 41

NTP WINNER:

A not won

B not won

C not won

DRIVE & CHIP WINNER

A Andrew Corbett B Greg Garvin C not won

Next week, 23 rd July will be a 9 hole Ambrose event.

Members are reminded next week will be our 41st Anniversary Ambrose event followed by our anniversary lunch at the Golf Club. Lunch will be served at 12 noon.

COME ALONG AND ENJOY A RELAXING 9 HOLE

WANT TO

COMPETITION, ALL MEMBERS AND VISITORS ARE VERY WELCOME. THE TANILBA VETS RECOGNISE AND ACKNOWLEDGE THE SERVICE OF CURRENT AND EX MEMBERS OF THE AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCES (ADF) AND AS SUCH, DO NOT CHARGE JOINING FEES FOR ADF VETERANS.

and Steve Potter continue their volunteer work for Port Stephens Power AFL Club – five years after the loss of their stillborn son Joey.

Magpies bounce back

By Chris KARAS

RAYMOND Terrace Magpies

have a genuine trump card in skilful utility halfback Kyle Handford.

With his ability to bust the line and create opportunities in attack the talented number seven remains one of the finest playmakers in the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League A Grade Mens competition.

Handford is an experienced campaigner and crafty ball player and one of the architects of the club’s premiership success in recent years.

The maestro half was at his scheming best last Saturday when he guided the Magpies to a 23-0 victory over Lakes United Seagulls at Cahill Oval.

Still reeling from their

first loss of the season against Cardiff Cobras just seven days prior, the Raymond Terrace big guns responded with a committed team effort to post their eleventh victory after twelve rounds.

Handford nabbed a try and three goals and created opportunities with his sound kicking game and clever passing to cap a superb display.

Club legend Luke Handsaker told News Of The Area that the talented playmaker was “an integral part of the Magpies line up”.

“Kyle is a fierce competitor with vast experience and knowledge and will be one of our key players for the big matches down the track,” revealed Handsaker.

Dashing centre Bailey Steed and winger Antwone Ryan also scored tries against the Seagulls to seal a

comprehensive win.

The Raymond Terrace warriors remain on top of the ladder on 22 points, three clear of second placed Waratah-Mayfield Cheetahs (19).

They are freely tipped to bring home minor premiership honours.

Gloucester whipped the Raymond Terrace Under 19s side 48-16 in a NHRL Mens Northern D Grade fixture last Saturday at Bert Gallagher Oval.

Talented five eighth Darcy Allardice was one of four Gloucester players to notch try doubles and booted six conversions for a personal contribution of twenty points.

Second rowers Hayden Berry and Blake Standen and hooker Craig Murray also scored doubles in the eight try romp.

Karuah Roos push finals claims

By Chris KARAS

KARUAH Roos have continued their charge towards the Newcastle Hunter Rugby League Mens D Grade Northern finals series.

Hayden Thompson’s rejuvenated Roos slammed the Mallabula Panthers 3418 last Saturday at Mallabula Sporting Complex to climb into second spot on the ladder.

twelve matches and lifts the club to fourteen competition points.

It was the Karuah team’s sixth win of the season from

Paterson Rivers lead the D Grade Northern series on twenty points with ten victories from their eleven fixtures to date.

Zion the mentor

By Chris KARAS

FEARLESS forward Zion

Takarua is big in stature and big on courage and regarded

as one of the toughest players to ever lace on a boot with the Nelson Bay Rugby Club. With his blockbusting runs and leadership

qualities, the giant prop has proved a valuable member of the Gropers’ champion top grade mens squad that continues to dominate the

The Roos dominated from the outset and managed to run in six tries, with flying winger and try scoring machine Adam Crampton bagging another double.

Other try scorers for Karuah were interchange

Hunter Suburban Rugby competition.

At the age of 36, the veteran forward still has so much to offer.

Local rugby enthusiasts have marvelled at Zion’s no-nonsense style of play, punishing defence and surprising turn of speed that has inspired many a Gropers victory in the Presidents Cup series.

An uncompromising figure, Takarua adds plenty of power and starch to a youthful Nelson Bay forward pack that have made an impact in Suburban rugby.

He is also proving his worth as a club mentor, assisting Head Coach Michael Wiringi with scrummaging and passing on the dark art of the front row to the young Gropers prop forwards.

Takarua hails from Shannon - a small sheep and dairy farming town in the Honowhenua district near Palmerston North in the North Island of New Zealand - where he grew up playing for Shannon Community Rugby Club.

The Shannon Club was formed in 1899 and is part of the Horowhenua Kapati Rugby Provence.

player Cooper Collins, lock forward Josh White, legendary fullback Mitchell O’Bryan and rugged prop Simi Asomua.

Roos skipper and five eighth Sam Croese potted five conversions.

Strong running hooker Mitchell Barr, lock forward Jack O’Neill and second rower

A young Zion moved to Australia in 2012 after being enticed by a friend to continue his rugby career in the Newcastle region.

After a few seasons with the Wanderers and Hamilton Rugby Clubs in Newcastle, Zion made his way up the road to the blue water paradise of Nelson Bay where he joined the Gropers in 2016.

During the COVID years, Zion had a stint with Medowie Rugby Club and guided them to a Divisional Major premiership triumph in 2020 before taking on the player coach role in 2022 and leading the club to the Divisional Minor Premiership.

Takarua returned to the Gropers in 2023 and played a key role in the club’s Hunter Suburban Presidents Cup championship success.

Nelson Bay is blessed with talented and seasoned front rowers in Nathan ‘Nugget’ McLeay (28), Nathan ‘Baz’ Perry (24), and young guns Riley Byfield (20) and Beau Mason (19).

Kayle Gordon scored tries for the Panthers with O’Neill booting three goals. Karuah forwards Asomua and White, prop Tim Crowther, hooker Daniel Evans, back rower Dylon Maher and Bailey Hepplewhite also turned in strong performances for the visitors.

McLeay has chalked up 77 grade appearances, Perry (62) and Byfield (35) with the trio representing the club at all levels of Premier One, Two and Three plus Suburban.

Mason is just starting his career in grade with six games under his belt after starring with the premiership winning Nelson Bay Under 18s team in 2023.

Along with being adept in the art of scrummaging, McLeay and Byfield have become try scoring machines when they get close to the opposition line.

Zion has proved a top scout for Nelson Bay Rugby over the years, recruiting players locally from around Medowie as well as encouraging his cousins Isaac Laracy, Ilisoni Vonomatairu and Danien Bryant, along with their good mates Niwa Wilson and Khace Petera, to cross the Tasman.

All five have played or are currently turning out for the Gropers.

If Nelson Bay can retain their premiership title in coming weeks then the popular Takarua will have made his mark.

All four props are local juniors who have come through the thriving Nelson Bay Junior Rugby nursery before entering the grade ranks.

q Experienced Raymond Terrace Magpies utility half Kyle Handford holds the key to another title.

q Nelson Bay Rugby Club’s stalwart prop Zion Takarua is mentoring the Gropers’ next generation of forward talent.

Mighty Marshall spurs Gropers to big win

By Chris KARAS

POWERHOUSE flanker

Ryan

Marshall is the latest young gun off Nelson Bay Rugby Club’s forward production line to make an impact in the Hunter Suburban Mens rugby series.

The talented back rower showed why the Gropers are favoured to secure this year’s President’s Cup premiership trophy after producing another non-stop performance in the club’s 55-0 drubbing of Pokolbin Reds at Bill Strong Oval last weekend.

Marshall proved a dynamo in attack and defence as the premiers ran in nine tries to chalk up an eleventh successive win and maintain top spot on the competition ladder.

The industrious number six capped a mighty game by scoring two determined tries and tackled himself to a standstill as the Nelson Bay forward pack laid the foundations for a resounding victory in blustery conditions.

Marshall was supported by hard working locks Lewis Affleck and Adam Edwards, half back Jake Langsford, young centre Jack Ballard, and inspirational number eight Sam Rocher, who was stand-in captain for the day.

The Gropers led 26-0 at the

interval and outclassed the Reds with sheer power and skill in a showing that pleased head coach Michael Wiringi.

Promising fly half Khace Petera, front rowers Nathan McLeay and Nathan Perry, centre Michael Hotene, utility ace Ilisoni Vonomatairatu, winger Danien Bryant and the ever-present Rocher also scored five pointers, with Vonomatairatu booting five conversions.

A highlight was the explosive running of wily hooker Ross Buchan, who stepped through tackles with fleet footwork and turned on the pace to leave Reds defenders in his wake.

One bulldozing run nearly led to a try for winger Taj Turner – only for the crafty Buchan to throw a dummy and get barreled over in the process.

“As the season unfolds we have plenty of youngsters pushing their claims for a regular spot in the top grade,” an excited Wiringi told News Of The Area.

Meanwhile the Nelson Bay women's rugby team were gallant in a 38-14 loss to third placed Merewether Carlton last Saturday at Townson Oval.

The Greens led 14-0 at the break and had to battle hard to overcome a tenacious Gropers line up in the second stanza.

Muree Golf Results

By Lee RANKIN

SATURDAY 13th July. Stableford. A Grade 1. Harry G Marshall 2. Daran Emmett 38C/B

Inspired by a half time speech from injured forward Jordan Byfield, the Nelson Bay girls held their own against the much-vaunted Merewether side.

3. Jaxon Brookes 38 B Grade 1. Steven Davakis 38 2. Michael Turner 37 3. Jonathon Martin 36 C Grade 1. Bruce Somerville 40

2. Benjamin Mayton 39

3. Greg Sainsbury 37 Pro Pin Matthew Foley Wednesday 17th July. Medley Stableford. A Grade

Outstanding fly half Sophia Collins led the way for the Gropers with two second half tries and was supported by lock Sierra Nowlan,

1. Steven Shearer 37 2. Tim Messenger 33 3. Kelvin Daniel 32 B Grade 1. Steven Davakis 37 2. Liam McCarthy 36

lynch and winger Ash Vetter. Nelson Bay host Muswellbrook Heelers this Saturday at Bill Strong Oval from 3pm.

3. Jose Garcia-Caravante 34 C Grade

1. Lee Rankin 33C/B

2. John Waanders 33

3. Jack Purcel 32

Revved up Northern Hawks too strong for Bulldogs in Denton Cup rugby league showdown

STORY STARTS on BACK COVER Page 28

points.

Kurri back rower Tyran Stevenson made an early impact by crashing through tackles to score a try double before winger Liam Dalibozek added a third and converted for a handy lead.

Northern responded with tries by centre Timanu Alexander, five eighth Taimana Elers and winger Ryan Weatherall before dominating the second stanza.

The elusive Alexander demonstrated his attacking prowess - bagging a hat trick of tries for the match with prop Quincy Ross and winger Danny

Vale also stamping their names on the Hawks’ try scoring list.

A try and conversion by Dalibozek shortly after the interval gave the Bulldogs a 20-14 lead before Northern finished strongly to slam their rivals.

Talented fullback Ngangarra Barker, workhorse utility Jack Langdon, skilful forward Lachlan Williams and powerhouse prop Jarred Williams also turned in superb displays for the Hawks.

The long awaited win lifts the Hawks off the bottom of the ladder and helps restore some lost pride for the Port Stephensbased club.

Northern Hawks host Lakes United Seagulls in their Indigenous Round clash this Saturday at Tomaree Sports Ground from 5pm.

Nelson Bay Golf Club

14 JULY – 20 July 2024

Sunday 14 July 2024

4bbb Stableford + Ind Stableford

1. Graeme Luke (10) 36

2. Andy State (19) 35 c/b

Ladies 4bbb Stableford + Ind

Stableford

1. Lesley Pickup (24) 44 c/b

2. Nicola Bethwaite (25) 44

Mixed 4bbb Stableford

1. John McCaw + Glenda McCaw 47

2. Keith Le Compte + Nicola

Bethwaite 45 c/b

Monday 15 July 2024

Vets Results

Div 1

1 Peter Hensley

2 Ted Williams

Div 2

1 Leslie Mann

2 Gavin Thom

Tuesday 16 July 2024

9 Hole Stableford

Overall, Winners

1 Helen Conran (54) 18

2 Helen James (49) 17 c/b

Ladies Golde Ball + 3bbb

Overall, Winners

1 Ros Kelly & Barbara Frost & Heather Crutch 46 c/b

2 Gwenda Bates & Janet Petith & Stephanie McKay 46

3 Mary Conway & Susan Hogan & Sharon Stevenson 45 c/b

Wednesday 17 July 2024

Stableford: Gymea Course

A1 John Morgan (15) 39

A2 Murray Atkins (9) 34c/b

A3 David Warder (8) 34

B1 Peter Schoonhoven (18) 37c/b

B2 Alan Mundey (16) 37c/b

B3 Michael Day (20) 37

C1 John Ambrose (30) 41

C2 Tony Jongerden (26) 39c/b

C3 Robert Henderson (24) 39

Men’s Stableford: Christmas Courses

A1 Steve Conrades (14) 37c/b

A2 Bob Kew (15) 37c/b

A3 Graham Kerslake (15) 37

B1 Peter Jackson (23) 38

B2 John Linton (20) 37c/b

B3 Ross Lalor (16) 37

C1 Jeffrey Warton (24) 41

C2 William Morley (30) 37

C3 Ken Scamell (32) 35c/b

Thursday 18 July 2024

Women’s Stableford: Gymea Course

A1 Mary Conway (29) 35

A2 Elsie Flanagan (32) 33

A3 Maggie Coggans (28) 32

B1 Lesley Palagy (41) 37

B2 Suzy Davis (38) 34

B3 Vicki Melrose (39) 32

Men’s Stableford Xmas Bush

Overall, winners

1 Peter Campbell (15) 31

2 Bill Shepard (21) 30

Vets Results

1 Richard Thomas 18

2 Terry Gannon 17

Friday 19 July 2024

Ladies Stableford:

Brushbox Course

Overall, Winners

1Lynda Le Bas (37) 34c/b

2 Robyn Kennett (16) 34

3 Diane McLean (28) 33c/b

Men’s Stableford:

Brushbox Course

A1 Peter Sutton (12) 37c/b

A2 Nikhil Pillay (15) 37

A3 Robert Paul 21) 35

A4 David Palmer (15) 34c/b

B1 John Elsworth (25) 39

B2 Richard Bennett (28) 35

B3 Frank Vandruten (26) 33c/b

B4 Ted Smith (26) 33c/b

Saturday 20th July

Men’s Par: Brush box Course

A1 David hogan (5) 35 c/b

A2 Peter Sutton (11) 35

B1 Kevin Hitchen (16) 37 c/b

B2 Keith Bryars (20) 37

C1 Flynn O’Malley (27) 35

C2 John Keane (24) 32 c/b

Men’s Stableford Christmas Bush

A1 Dennis Knight (15) 37 c/b

A2 Allan Daubaras (11) 37

A3 David Kirby (6) 36 c/b

B1 John McCaw (16) 38 c/b

B2 Darren Hancock (19) 38

B3 Nev Stanfield (19) 37

C1 David Affleck (24) 43

C2 David Hurley (28) 42

C3 Max Stocker (25) 34

Women’s Stableford Brush Course.

Overall, winners

1 Sharon Dunn (19) 36

2 Jeannie Punshon (24) 32 c/b

3 Barbara Frost (18) 32c/b

Ellyse

q Nelson Bay Gropers chalked up an eleventh successive victory after toppling Pokolbin Reds last weekend in Hunter Suburban Rugby action at Bill Strong Oval.

SUDOKU

Kids Boot Camp

Public Notices

Public Notice of Precipe, Tacit Acceptance and Reconveyance

Brian Malcolm Tucker© of the State of New South Wales, is not a voluntary transactor in commerce, and is the irrefutable Holder in Due Course of my properties and all associated copyright protected Trade Names since unrebutted lawful Reconveyance to the Land and Soil jurisdiction of Terra Australis also known as the Commonwealth of Australia, Public Recording Number RPP44 63900 05100 32195 21609, Proclamation Date 2nd May 2024, thus severing usufruct subjugation ties with the occupying corporate government of Australia in its entirety. Immediately cease and desist any further infringement upon these, copyright protected financial instruments and cease and desist misaddressing Brian Malcolm Tucker© in fraudulent debased Dog-Latin, Glossa.

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FRIDAY

LOVE YOUR GARDEN

ABC TV, 10.45pm

In this long-running and wonderfully feel-good British series, gardener Alan Titchmarsh surprises homeowners with one of life’s greatest joys: a beautiful garden. With an eye for detail and a dedicated team that expertly makes the most out of every plot, the series showcases transformations that change lives with the magic of plants. You could call it real-life flower power. Tonight, Titchmarsh is in Thornton Heath at an aged care centre ready to breathe new life into its uninspiring outdoor area.

FRIDAY, July 26

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30

5.00 Rage. (PG)

MONDAY

WE’RE ALL GONNA DIE (EVEN JAY BARUCHEL)

SBS VICELAND, 8.30pm

As bleak and eye-opening as this sassy series gets, Jay Baruchel’s wide-eyed, boyish inquisitiveness sprinkles some welcome sweetness. In this second series, the Blackberry openly admits dying is “something I’m obsessed with”, is back to meticulously cover the sorts of topics most of us try to avoid thinking about or haven’t had the displeasure of considering yet. These six episodes include the catastrophic elements of space, the extinction of insects, the dangers of nano technology and whether our perceived reality is merely a computer simulation.

(R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 The Point. (R) 3.35 Bitesize. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Tony Robinson: Britain’s Greatest River. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Freddie Mercury: The Great Pretender. (Mls, R) 9.05 MOVIE: Duran Duran: A Hollywood High. (2022, G, R)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 The Shelter. (Ma)

12.35 My Brilliant Friend. (Mav, R)

3.50 Make Me A Dealer. (R)

4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

THURSDAY JUNIOR DOCTORS DOWN UNDER

SBS, 8.25pm

As if surveying

injuries wasn’t raising trauma

series has the added emotional turbulence of following young doctors from Britain who have jumped head-first into the complexities and turmoil of the dreaded hospital emergency department. Far from home and their loved ones, these junior medicos steadfastly draw on their knowledge and expertise with utmost professionalism, but the occasional deer-in-headlights expression is hard to miss.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs catches up with Josh Niland.

8.30 MOVIE: Fifty Shades Of Grey. (2015, MA15+as, R) After her roommate falls ill, an English literature major agrees to interview a powerful businessman, who harbours long-buried secrets from his past, for the university newspaper. Dakota Johnson, Jamie Dornan, Jennifer Ehle.

11.05 Dancing With The Stars. (PG, R) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown and Sonia Kruger.

1.10 Boy To Man. (PGa, R)

2.30 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair: Paris Edition.

7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 21. Parramatta Eels v Melbourne Storm.

9.55 Golden Point.

10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Women’s Soccer. Australia v Germany. Replay.

12.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Women’s Soccer. Includes: France v Colombia. Men’s Rugby Sevens. Quarter-final. Replay.

3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024: Pre-Show.

3.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Hosted by Tom Gleisner. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mdl, R) Celebrity guests include Paul Mescal, Andrew Scott, Kingsley Ben-Adir and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. 9.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presented by Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald. 10.30 10’s Late News.

10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

SATURDAY, July 27

6.00

(Mav, R)

(MA15+adhlnsv)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (PGal)

8.25 Princess Anne: The Plot To Kidnap A Royal. (PGa, R)

9.20 Westminster Abbey: Behind Closed Doors. (PG, R)

10.10 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Mal, R)

11.05 Paris Paris. (PGal)

12.05 MOVIE: Radioactive. (2019, Mav, R)

2.05 Life Drawing Live. (Mn, R)

4.05 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.35 Bamay. (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 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Designer goods have officers suspicious.

7.30 MOVIE: Sister Act. (1992, PGv, R) A singer on the run takes refuge in a convent. Whoopi Goldberg, Maggie Smith.

9.35 MOVIE: Sleepless In Seattle. (1993, PGal, R) A boy tries to find a girlfriend for his dad. Tom Hanks.

11.50 Autopsy USA: Gregg Allman. (MA15+ad, R)

12.50 Criminal Confessions. (Madlv, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Drop Dead Weird. (R)

5.00 House Of Wellness. (PGa, R)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 1: Night. Events may include: swimming heats; diving; men’s hockey, Australia v Argentina. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 1: Late night. 12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 1: Post midnight.

3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 1: Overnight. Events may include: swimming finals, women’s and men’s 400m freestyle, women’s and men’s 4x100m freestyle relays; men’s rugby sevens, medal matches; surfing, round 1.

5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 1: Early morning.

6.00 The Dog House Australia. (PG, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.00 The Dog House. (R) A family looks for a pet. 8.00 To Be Advised. 9.00 Ambulance UK. (Mad, R) It is a busy weekend night shift as North West Ambulance Service crews attend to patients with mental health issues. An advanced paramedic is dispatched to a baby born in the passenger seat of a car.

11.30 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presented by Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald.

6am The Movie Show. 6.30 Steel Magnolias. (1989, PG) 8.40 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 10.50 Juliet, Naked. (2018, M) 12.40pm Eiffel. (2021, M, French) 2.40 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.35 Hacker. (2019, PG, Danish) 6.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 8.30 The Trust. (2016, MA15+) 10.10 Leaving. (2009, MA15+, French) 11.45 Late

SUNDAY, July 28

6.00 Antiques Roadshow.

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Spicks And Specks. (Final, PG)

8.00 Austin. (Final, PG)

8.30 Fifteen-Love. (Premiere, Mal) A tennis prodigy’s life is rocked by tragedy.

9.20 Unforgotten. (Mal, R)

10.10 The Beast Must Die. (Mal, R)

10.55 Annika. (Mav, R)

11.45 Frayed. (MA15+l, R) 12.30 Noughts + Crosses. (Mlv, R) 1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.00 Classic Countdown. (PG, R) 4.00 Landline. (R) 4.30 Art Works. (PG, R)

5.00 Insiders. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings. (PGav)

9.20 Lost Treasure Tombs Of The Ancient Maya. (PGav, R) 11.05 Attila’s Forbidden Tomb. (Mav, R)

12.40 24 Hours In Emergency. (Ma, R)

1.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mls, R)

2.25 Hell On Earth: WWII. (Mav, R) 3.20 The Woman Who Wasn’t There. (Mal, R)

4.30 Peer To Peer. (PG, R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Dancing With The Stars. (PG) Hosted by Dr Chris Brown and Sonia Kruger.

9.00 Miniseries: Malpractice. (Premiere, Malv) Part 1 of 5. A doctor finds her actions at the centre of a medical investigation.

11.00 Air Crash Investigations: Pitch Black. (PGa, R) A look at the crash of Air Illinois Flight 710.

12.00 Lipstick Jungle. (Mds, R) Nico deals with the new CEO.

2.00 Home Shopping.

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 2: Night. Events may include: swimming; skateboarding; women’s hockey, Australia v South Africa; equestrian; rowing. 10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 2: Late night. Events may include: canoe slalom, women’s K1 semi-finals; women’s artistic gymnastics; women’s cycling, mountain bike.

12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 2: Post midnight.

3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 2: Overnight.

5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 2: Early morning.

MONDAY, July 29

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes.

8.40 Into The Gobi Desert With Nick Knowles. (PG)

9.30 24 Hours In Emergency. (Return, Ma)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

11.00 Forest Of The Missing. (Premiere, MA15+asv)

1.00 Tokyo Vice. (MA15+s, R)

3.00 The Autistic Gardener. (R) 3.55 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) (Return) 9.40 Duelling Daredevils. 10.30 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am The Movie Show. 6.25 Diana. (2013, PG) 8.30 Jean De Florette. (1986, PG, French) 10.45 Manon Des Sources. (1986, M, French) 12.50pm Shirley. (2020, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.20 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 5.30 Oka! (2012, PG) 7.30 Running Against The Wind. (2019, M, Amharic) 9.45 Tigers. (2020, MA15+, Swedish) 11.55 The Mask Of Zorro. (1998, M) 2.25am Late Programs.

TUESDAY, July 30

3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Landline. (R) 5.00 Art Works. (PGs, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Great British Railway Journeys.

8.30 Insight. Presented by Kumi Taguchi.

9.30 Dateline: Cambodia’s Surrogacy Crackdown.

10.00 SBS World News Late.

10.30 The Point: Road Trip. (R)

11.30 The Man Who Died. (Mas)

1.15 Christian. (MA15+d, R)

4.00 Peer To Peer. (R)

4.30 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up 1999. 11.00 Marry Me, Marry My Family. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Molly And Cara. 12.45 Stacey Dooley: Back On The Psych Ward. 1.55 The Bee Whisperer. 2.55 Kickin’ Back. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.25 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Alone. 9.40 Hoarders. 11.20 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Oka! (2012, PG) 8.00 Oliver! (1968, PG) 10.40 The Mask Of Zorro. (1998, M) 1.10pm The Medallion. (2003, M) 2.45 The Movie Show. 3.15 Diana. (2013, PG) 5.20 Goal! (2005, PG) 7.30 Ping Pong: The Triumph. (2023, M, Mandarin) 10.00 Marinette. (2023, M) 11.50 Disco. (2019, MA15+) 1.40am Tigers. (2020, MA15+, Swedish) 3.50 The Goddess Of Fortune. (2019, M, Italian)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG) Two men keep changing their stories.

8.30 Alert: Missing Persons Unit. (Mav) Jason and Mike search for a couple who have gone missing in the Allegheny Mountains.

10.30 S.W.A.T. (Mav)

12.30 The Event. (Mav, R)

1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 3: Night. Events may include: rowing; men’s hockey, Australia v Ireland; swimming; diving; women’s rugby sevens; cycling mountain bike; equestrian.

10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 3: Late night. Events may include: canoe slalom; equestrian, eventing jumping; women’s rugby sevens.

12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 3: Post midnight.

3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 3: Overnight.

5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 3: Early morning.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. (PGls) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 Ghosts. (PGs) Sam and Jay’s restaurant is in jeopardy.

10.25 10’s Late News.

10.50 The Project. (R) 11.55 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

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6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) Harper is faced with a tough choice.

7.30 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Hosted by Ant and Dec.

9.30 First Dates UK. (Return, Mls) Follows singles, including a cake-maker and self-confessed princess, as they embark on first dates.

11.35 Extended Family. (Premiere, PGa)

12.35 MOVIE: Slam. (2018, MA15+alv, R) Adam Bakri.

3.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 4: Night. Events may include: men’s triathlon; rowing; swimming; men’s basketball, Australia v Canada.

10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 4: Late night. Events may include: men’s basketball, Australia v Canada; canoe slalom; shooting; women’s rugby sevens, semi-finals.

12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 4: Post midnight.

3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 4: Overnight.

5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 4: Early morning.

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6.00

WEDNESDAY, July 31

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.15 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.15 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 11.10 Inside Oxford Street. (Final, PG) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Point. (R) 3.35 Destination Flavour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Britain’s Greatest River. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R)

6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Stormy. (Malns)

9.30 DI Ray. (Malv)

10.25 SBS World News Late.

10.55 Headhunters. (Malv)

12.35 Faking Hitler. (Mln, R)

3.20 Grayson Perry’s Big American Road Trip. (PG, R)

4.15 Bamay. (R)

4.50 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up 1999. 11.00 Marry Me, Marry My Family. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Forsaken Places. 2.45 The Inside Story. 3.15 Deafinition. 3.25 WorldWatch. 5.25 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: 2001: A Space Odyssey. (1968) 11.10 MOVIE: Foxcatcher. (2014, M) 1.40am Alone. 4.00 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Jean De

Florette. (1986, PG, French) 8.15 Funny Lady. (1975, PG) 10.45 Running Against The Wind. (2019, M, Amharic) 1pm Marinette. (2023, M) 2.45 The Movie Show. 3.20 Oka! (2012, PG) 5.20 Goal! 2: Living The Dream. (2007, PG) 7.30 Studs. (2006, M) 9.15 Piece Of My Heart. (2022, MA15+, Dutch) 11.20 Raging Bull. (1980, MA15+) 1.40am You Came Back. (2020, M, Italian) 3.30 Late Programs.

THURSDAY, August 1

6.00

R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Morning Programs. 9.05 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 11.00 Living In A Postcard. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Bitesize. (R) 2.10 The Point. (R) 2.15 Animal Einsteins. (PGs, R) 3.10 Trail Towns. (PG, R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Britain’s Greatest River. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Sue Perkins: Lost In Thailand. (PG)

8.25 Junior Doctors Down Under. (Premiere)

9.20 Treasures Of India With Bettany Hughes. (PG, R)

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 The Head. (Malv)

12.25 Blanca. (MA15+ad, R)

3.15 Grayson Perry’s Big American Road Trip. (Ml, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up 1999. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Reclaiming Amy. 1.30 Love Me As I Am: Untold Australia. 2.35 Queer Sports. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.25 Curse Of Oak Island. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The Playboy Bunny Murder. 10.20 The UnXplained. Midnight The World’s Toughest Prisons. 1.00 Late Programs.

SBS MOVIES (32)

6am Oliver! Continued. (1968, PG) 7.50 Goal! (2005, PG) 10.00 Ping Pong: The Triumph. (2023, M, Mandarin) 12.30pm Annie Hall. (1977, M) 2.15 Good Night, And Good Luck. (2005, PG) 3.55 Arthur And The Two Worlds War. (2010, PG) 5.50 Skating To New York. (2013, PG) 7.30 Ali. (2001) 10.25 Southpaw. (2015) 12.45am Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: A Daughter’s Deception. (2019, Mav, R) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R) 2.15 Catch Phrase. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Kitchen Nightmares Australia. (MA15+l, R) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge.

10.45 Autopsy USA. (Ma)

11.45 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa, R)

12.45 Holey Moley Australia. (PGs, R)

2.30 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. 11.30 Medical Emergency. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Slow Train Through Africa. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30

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6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 5: Night. Events may include: swimming heats; women’s triathlon; women’s hockey, Australia v USA; cycling BMX freestyle.

10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 5: Late night. Events may include: cycling BMX freestyle, men’s final; canoe slalom, women’s C1 semi-final.

12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Day 5: Post midnight.

3.00 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 5: Overnight.

5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 5: Early morning.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGdl) A surfer is treated for a spinal injury. 8.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mlm) Sydney Call Centre is receiving a higher than average number of unusual calls.

2024. Day 5: Night. 7.00 Young Sheldon. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Creed. (2015, M) 11.10 Seinfeld. 12.10am Below Deck. 1.05 Made In Chelsea. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.30

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Mali is racked with guilt.

8.30 Homicide: With Ron Iddles: Erwin Kastenberger. (Mav, R) Ron Iddles takes a look at the investigation into the murder of Erwin Kastenberger.

9.30 Starstruck. (PG) Hosted by Olly Murs.

10.50 Air Crash Investigations: Deadly Departure. (PGa) Examines the crash of a cargo plane.

12.50 The Goldbergs. (PGal, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

5.00 Sunrise 5am News.

5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 6: Night.

7.50 Rugby League. NRL. Round 22. Wests Tigers v North Queensland Cowboys. From Leichhardt Oval, Sydney.

9.45 Olympic Games

Paris 2024. Day 6: Night.

10.30 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 6: Late night.

12.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 6: Post midnight.

3.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 6: Overnight.

5.00 Olympic Games Paris 2024. Day 6: Early morning.

9GO! (83)

By Chris KARAS

AFTER a prolonged period of match day heartbreak the Northern Hawks first grade rugby league team have returned to the winners circle.

In a huge fillip for the Port Stephens league community, Brad Tighe’s youthful warriors are celebrating their first win in the 2024 Newcastle Rugby League Denton Engineering Cup series.

The Hawks toppled cellar dwellers Kurri Kurri Bulldogs 36-20 recently at Kurri Kurri Sportsground to snap a twelve week drought.

Power running lock forward Liam Walsh was best on ground – menacing the Bulldogs with his bustling runs and rugged

defence to spearhead Northern to a much-needed victory and earn the official Player of the Match award.

A jubilant Walsh told News Of The Area the Hawks had been building for their first win of the season with encouraging performances in recent rounds.

“We are so relieved to break our duck and pick up our first win after a tough three month schedule,” revealed the industrious forward who has proved a model of consistency for the Northern club this year.

“It is a real confidence boost moving forward as the team continues to improve,” added Walsh.

Trailing 14-0, the Hawks rallied to level the scores at half time before producing a four try blitz after the interval to secure two valuable competition

CONTINUED Page 20

Meryl Swanson MP - Federal Member for Paterson

q Outstanding Northern Hawks lock forward Liam Walsh was best on ground in the club’s 36-20 victory over Kurri Kurri Bulldogs.