Port Stephens News Of The Area 29 December 2022

Mayoral Academic Scholarships open for 2023

FROM Page 1

Port Stephens Mayoral Academic Scholarships.

This is the fourteenth year that local students can apply for a $2,000 scholarship to help cover the cost of their studies thanks to the joint initiative by Port Stephens Council and local Port Stephens businesses.

This year, sixteen local businesses have collectively contributed $40,000 to the scholarship pool creating 20 scholarships.

This year’s generous sponsors include Ampcontrol, BAE Systems, Business Port Stephens, Club Lemon Tree (x2), Destination Port Stephens, Hunter Land, Hunter Readymixed Concrete, McDonald Jones Homes, MOJO Homes, Newcastle Airport (2), Raymond Terrace Bowling Club, Salamander

Bay Recycling (2), Soldiers Point Bowling Club, The Wests Group (x2), Tomago Aluminium and Weathertex.

Mayor Ryan Palmer says the program continues to grow and help local students on their way to further education.

“Every year, I’m increasingly impressed with the calibre of applications we receive for this program,” Mayor Palmer said.

“Recipients use the scholarship to help pay for textbooks, buying a laptop or helping with rising living costs.

“We know these

scholarships go a long way to helping students pursue their passions and achieve their goals through further education.

“I encourage students to apply for a scholarship and give yourself a head start in your academic career,” he said.

Mayor Palmer also recognises the generosity of local businesses in supporting this important initiative.

“Over the last thirteen years, we’ve helped over 150 students reach their academic goals with scholarships totalling over $300,000.

M1 Pacific Motorway extensions shifts up a gear

FROM Page 1

out the design and build for the southern and northern sections.

John Holland/ Gamuda Joint Venture will build the ten-kilometre southern section that extends from Black Hill to Tomago, and Seymour Whyte Constructions will build the five-kilometre northern section that bypasses Heatherbrae.

The project is being delivered using two collaborative design and construct contracts to ensure innovation, efficiency and value for money in bringing this extension to life.

The Australian and NSW governments are jointly funding the $2.1 billion M1 Pacific Motorway Extension to Raymond Terrace

project on an 80:20 basis.

The extension is expected to be open to traffic in mid2028.

Federal Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Minister Catherine King said, “The Australian Government is partnering with states and territories across the country to deliver the projects that matter.

“This project will deliver local jobs in construction while ensuring a safer, faster

commute for locals.

“I look forward to seeing major works getting underway and the benefits flowing.”

Federal Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson said, “The M1 at Hexham is the last bottle neck on the Pacific highway between Sydney and Brisbane.

“This critical work will ensure thousands of vehicles keep moving, not only North/South but also locals travelling back and forth from Maitland and Newcastle

“Our local businesses remain committed to supporting and investing in our future leaders because they know its importance in the long term.

“I want to thank all of our amazing business sponsors. Many of which have been with us since the start and recognise the value of investing in this program,” he said.

The 2023 Mayoral Academic Scholarships are open from now until Friday 15 January 2023.

For more information and to apply, visit pscouncil.info/ mayoralacademicscholarships

“I'm glad this project will streamline the flow of traffic for both daily and seasonal motorists.

“This has been a key priority for me since my election in 2016, and I'm delighted that both Federal and State Governments are working with me to complete the job so locals across the Hunter can see an end to the chaos and daily delays.”

For more information and to sign up for regular updates on the progress of the M1 extension, visit caportal.com. au/tfnsw/m1rt.

Hexham Straight widening project steps forward

MAJOR construction work to widen Hexham Straight will start soon, with the contractors to deliver the project now on board.

It was announced last week that Georgiou Group Pty Ltd, Daracon Contractors Pty Ltd and SMEC Australia Pty Ltd would collaborate closely to deliver the major project, which will improve safety and traffic flow for the 50,000 motorists and heavy vehicles who use this route every day.

“The work will be delivered as part of a collaborative alliance contract to ensure innovation, efficiency and value for money in bringing the plan to life,” Transport for NSW Regional Director North Anna Zycki said.

“The Hexham project is part of one of the biggest infrastructure projects for the region, which also includes extending the M1 to Raymond Terrace.

“The Australian Government and NSW Government have worked together to provide $2.1 billion to deliver the M1 extension and the Hexham Straight widening projects – with $1.68 billion from the Australian Government and $420 million from NSW.”

Ms Zycki said this project would improve traffic flow along the Pacific Highway (Maitland Road) between Newcastle Inner City Bypass and Hexham Bridge, which is known as Hexham Straight.

“It will also support economic growth at key employment areas such as the Port of Newcastle and Greater Newcastle and is estimated to

Seniors

By Marian SAMPSON

SENIORS

Minister

provide about 750 jobs over its life cycle,” Ms Zycki said.

“Early works are well and truly underway with Transport for NSW carrying out field investigations to assist with the future detailed design and construction.

“This is an exciting time for the Hunter and NSW as this project, together with the Coffs Harbour bypass,

will provide the remaining major upgrades to complete a free-flowing route between Sydney and Brisbane with no traffic lights.”

Work is expected to start mid next year, with the project expected to be open to traffic in 2026.

For more information visit nswroads.work/hexham

On

products

“This

“The

in Australia, and has been helping keep more money in seniors' pockets and easing the cost of living for 30 years.”

Seniors Cards are available for permanent NSW residents who are 60 years of age or over and are working no more than 20 hours per week in paid employment.

For more information visit www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au.

Development Applications: When do I need one?

By Marian SAMPSON

THE demolition of a cottage at 140 Gan Gan Road, which included the removal of one of the largest trees in the street, was completed without proper approval, Council have confirmed.

On Monday 12 December, a Port Stephens Council spokesperson advised News Of The Area that Council’s Compliance team attended the Gan Gan Road site the week prior, but by that time the home had already been demolished.

According to Council’s website, you need a Development Application (DA) to knock down a structure that would have required a DA to build.

Given the age of the home, concerns were held about the amount of asbestos contained within the dwelling.

“From our subsequent conversations with the contractor, it’s understood that the home contained very little asbestos, and was not required to be reported to Safe Work,” the spokesperson said.

Contractors/ homeowners can remove up to 10m2 of Friable Asbestos without approval.

“At request of the investigating officer, a site fence has been installed at the site to prevent public access.”

An investigation as to why the home was demolished without approval is ongoing, and Council staff advise that the property owner is cooperating with Council compliance staff on this matter.

Why do I need a DA?

According to Port Stephens Council, “A development consent permits a new building that will change our environment, and may affect our amenity or the amenity of those around us.”

A DA is required to:

1. Manage change to ensure that the cumulative impacts of developments do not negatively affect the environment.

2. Balance public and private interests by ensuring new development fits the character of the area and sits comfortably within the ‘public domain’ (e.g. streets, laneways or public reserves).

3. Provide an impartial process which allows interested members of the community to raise issues, to ensure a balanced and considered outcome for all.

4. Ensure that the hard infrastructure (e.g.

stormwater drainage, car parking and power supply) and soft infrastructure (e.g. trees and landscaping) needed for your development is provided.

5. Ensure that your building is structurally safe, protected from fire and has appropriate access to sunlight and ventilation.

Asbestos Concerns

In Australia, asbestos cement materials were first manufactured in the 1920's.

These were commonly used in the manufacture of residential and commercial building materials from the mid-1940's until the late 1980's.

During the 1980's,

asbestos cement materials were phased out in favour of asbestos-free products

Australia banned the use and import of blue asbestos, brown asbestos and asbestos-containing products in the mid-1980s.

The manufacture and import of white asbestos products was banned in

December 2003.

From 31 December 2003, the total ban on manufacture, supply, use, reuse, import, transport, storage and sale of all forms of asbestos came into force.

Asbestos causes lung disease and deadly cancer, Mesothelioma, for which there is no cure.

Most buildings in Australia built before 1981 have asbestos used in their construction.

“For DA’s where asbestos is likely to be encountered during works or demolition, Council would impose conditions on the DA requiring a Hazardous Building Materials Report (HBMR) be prepared prior to the works occurring,” a Council spokesperson told News Of The Area.

“The HBMR will identify any asbestos containing material within the building and provide recommendations for its safe removal in accordance with the requirements of Safe Work NSW.

“A condition would also be included requiring that the asbestos waste be disposed of at an appropriately licenced waste facility,” they said.

www.newsofthearea.com.au

q At 140 Gan Gan Road, Anna Bay is now a cleared block where there was once a cottage and a large shade tree. Photo: Marian Sampson.

Arriving alive is your responsibility this holiday season

ALL ROAD users are being reminded that everyone’s safety is their responsibility as the NSW Police Force launch this year’s New Year holiday enforcement operation.

Operation Christmas/ New Year 2022 commenced at 12.01am on Friday 23 December 2022 and will conclude at 11.59pm on Monday 2 January 2023.

Double demerit points will apply for the duration of the operation for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt, and motorcycle helmet offences.

Traffic and Highway Patrol Command officers, together with local police across NSW, will be enforcing all road-related legislation, including drink and drug driving, distractions, driving tired, and any dangerous driving behaviours which put the safety of road users at risk.

Acting Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole said everyone has a role to play on the roads these holidays.

“Unfortunately, some people still think they’re above the law, whether it’s quickly checking a text, driving too fast because the road is familiar, or getting behind the wheel when tired, but we have road rules for a reason because we want everyone to arrive

safely at their destination this holiday period,” Mr Toole said.

“While police will be out in force, please remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

“You don’t want to get a fine in the mail or lose your licence, but worse still, you don’t want to be the reason someone can’t celebrate with all their loved ones this Christmas, so I’m calling on drivers to do the right thing every time they get behind the wheel.”

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden, said the holiday period is traditionally the busiest time of year on NSW roads, which can potentially make it the most dangerous.

“Police maintain a highly visible presence on our roads but the key to reducing road trauma lies in taking responsibility – for yourself, your family, your passengers, and every other road user,” Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said.

“Whenever a person gets behind the wheel, we need to consider that as entering a social contract with those people: you agree to do right thing and make sure we all reach our destinations safe and sound.

“You don’t want to be the person whose irresponsible behaviour changes a life – or lives – forever.

“The most important gift you can give this festive season is being responsible.

Be the motorist who obeys the road rules and drives to the conditions, not the motorist who drives recklessly and kills someone,” Assistant Commissioner McFadden said.

The NSW road toll for 2022 currently stands at 280, which is sixteen more than the same time last year.

Head of Safety at Transport for NSW Peter Dunphy said we want everyone to make it to their destination safely –whether it’s a trip to the local shops or a longer road trip.

“Five people lost their lives during the Christmas and New Year double demerit period last year,” Mr Dunphy said.

“That’s five too many. Three of those people were killed in crashes where alcohol was involved.

“Even a drink or two increases your blood alcohol concentration, and as it rises so does you risk of being involved in a crash.”

Mr Dunphy reminded everyone to remember their common sense this holiday season.

“Always have a Plan B in place before their first drink, and never drink or drug drive.

“If you are getting behind the wheel – even if it’s a short trip, never drive if you’re tired, buckle up, stay under the speed limit, and put the phone away.

To help plan your trip anywhere in NSW, up-to-the minute traffic conditions can be found at https://www. livetraffic.com.

Girl arrested after Police chase

A YOUNG person was arrested after a Port Stephens pursuit last week.

At about 3.45pm last Thursday 22 December, officers attached to the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were patrolling the Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae, when they signalled for a driver to stop for an RBT.

The driver failed to

stop and officers initiated a pursuit; however, it was terminated due to safety concerns over the manner of driving.

Shortly after, police detected the same vehicle in the East Seaham area and followed the vehicle to Clarence Town.

Road spikes were deployed by officers attached to Port Stephens Police District and the vehicle came to a stop on Limeburners Creek Road, Clarence Town.

The driver, a 15-yearold female, was arrested at the scene along with four passengers, a 15-year-old female, 16-year-old male, and two 18-year-old females.

The five teens were taken to Raymond Terrace Police Station where the four passengers were released.

The driver was charged with driving in a dangerous manner and breach of bail.

She was refused bail and appeared before Children's Court Friday 23 December.

NSW Groundwater Strategy Released

THE NSW Groundwater Strategy has been released, with Kaia Hodge, Executive Director of Regional Water Strategies for the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, describing the strategy as a major milestone in groundwater management.

“The strategy went on public exhibition earlier this year, and we heard from residents, local governments, researchers, academics, and industry, agriculture and environmental groups,” Ms Hodge said.

“There was strong support for the strategy

and its key priorities across a diverse range of stakeholders, and we’re confident the final strategy reflects community sentiment and local knowledge and is informed by the best possible scientific evidence.

“It means the solutions we’re implementing now, and in the years to come, will ensure NSW has the groundwater resources it needs, despite future challenges.”

In NSW, groundwater is critical to town water supply, including in the regions where more than 250 towns

rely on it daily.

Across the state, it makes up ten percent of the drinking supply.

It also underpins the economy, injecting nearly $1 billion each year by supporting industry and agriculture.

Groundwater is also crucial for the environment.

Many wetlands, springs and lakes depend on groundwater, as do other valuable assets.

Groundwater-dependent ecosystems span up to 6.5 million hectares, or about eight percent of NSW’s land

Bringing People Together

By Geoff WALKER

IF we turn to the Bible, Luke 9:10 - 17, it relates how Jesus fed some five thousand people with just five loaves of bread and two fish.

Taniba's Baptist Church has not exactly done this but

it has fed many more mouths over a much longer period of time.

To find out how, we must backtrack to 2007 when 'Pete's Kitchen' served an evening meal to anybody who was alone or needed social contact.

That changed in about

2017 when it was decided that a lunchtime sit down meal would better suit the elderly who do not like venturing out after dark.

Another change came during Covid when the church kitchen provided a no-contact drive in service and a free

surface, and support many unique and native plant and animal species.

“It's never been more important to protect groundwater, so it’s managed smartly and sustainably into the future, which is why we’re acting now," Ms Hodge said.

The strategy includes actions to:

• Support towns and cities that use groundwater improve their urban water planning

• Support Aboriginal people’s rights, values and uses of groundwater

delivery for those in need.

Christmas is a particularly important time for Christians who celebrate the birth of Jesus and a special slap-up dinner is put on for those who

• Support resilient groundwater-dependent industries in NSW

• Better share and integrate groundwater information

• Improve our understanding of groundwater resources

• Expand and target our groundwater data collection

• Refresh, consolidate and expand our groundwater policy framework

• Improve protection of groundwater-dependent ecosystems and baseflows to streams

• Review and update approaches to sustainable

attend the Thursday lunches.

A $2 donation to defray costs is welcome but unlike Mary and Joseph, nobody in need will be turned away.

To refresh your memory,

groundwater extraction

• Protect groundwater quality within natural limits

• Better integrate groundwater management with other land and water management processes

• Develop the groundwater components of a water knowledge plan

The first implementation plan will chart how actions are delivered over the next two years.

It will be published early in 2023.

To read the strategy, visit: https://www.dpie.nsw.gov. au/groundwater-strategy

it is worth once again turning to Luke: 2.7 for the Christmas story which tells why the Saviour was born in a stable.

The church still has its own vegetable gardens and the fresh produce helps to supply the kitchen with nutritional greens.

Want to do some calculating?

The meal service has been running for some fifteen years.

Multiply that by 50 to give the number of weeks it has been operating and again multiply it by 30, which is a rough estimate of the attendance each time.

This adds up to a lot more mouths fed since Jesus performed his miracle by the Sea of Galilee all those years ago, doesn't it?

Member for Port Stephens

Your local voice in NSW Parliament

q The recent Baptist Church Christmas party.

q The Church’s vegetable garden.

q Rev. Anthony Gentle: “Nobody turned away”.

School Holiday Fun At The Library

By Marian SAMPSON

FOR kids the summer holiday break is an endless adventure, however for parents filling the days with unique and different activities can be hard.

The Port Stephens Libraries are offering a series of activities for kids over the summer which may make summer fun easier for parents to serve up.

Best of all, many of the activities are free!

Parents will need to book in for the activities by contacting Raymond Terrace Library on 4988 0111 or Tomaree Library

on 4988 0670.

- Harry Potter fans will be delighted at the Hogwarts Happenings trivia and magical mischief events on 10-11 January for children over the age of eight.

Dressing up for this event is optional, however the best dressed Harry Potter Inspired attendee will receive a prize.

- For the environmentally curious, there is an Ocean & Coastal Care Initiative Touch Table at Tomaree Library on 10-11 January at Tomaree Library and on 17-18 January 2023 at Raymond Terrace Library from 10am to 2pm.

- The Rock Pool Rambles talks are great for the whole family - they educate about rock pool rambling, seagrass beds and ocean and coastal care.

This hour-long session is being held on 11 January 2023 at Tomaree Library from 10:30am to 11:30am and at Raymond Terrace Library on 18 January from 10:30am to 11:30am.

- For the dancer within you there is the Vesta Kids Disco, offering a variety of games, dance challenges and interactive activities on Friday 13 January 2023 at Raymond

Terrace Library from 10am to 12pm and at Tomaree Library from 2pm to 4pm.

A representative from Port Stephens Council told News Of The Area, “Depending on the program or activity, we can have anywhere between ten to 40 or more participants.

“The programs we run in-house tend to be for smaller groups, and outside performers are usually bigger events attracting more participants.

“Most of our children’s holiday programs are booked out with a waiting list, so it’s best to book in early!”

‘Shutterbugs’ descend on NSW National Parks for new photography competition

A SPECIAL breed of shutterbug will be spotted in NSW national parks this summer, vying for the title of best photograph in the first ever NSW National Parks Photo Competition.

Head of NSW National Parks Atticus Fleming said all shutterbugs, whether professional or amateur, could snap up a chance to win one of four national park holidays.

“Our national parks protect spectacular landscapes and threatened wildlife, offering exceptional photo opportunities across the State, from brilliant beaches to majestic tall forests

and our unique outback,” Mr Fleming said.

“If you are in a national park this summer, pull out your camera or your phone and take that special photo of a stunning view, a beautiful bird or your friends exploring our parks.

“Your photos will be showcased on a new webpage, helping to promote awareness of our national parks and support for conservation. Plus, there are some great prizes!

“There are four competition categories: Landscapes and Vistas, Animals and Plants, Enjoying Nature and Remote

Country.

“Category winners will receive their choice of a unique holiday in selected national park accommodation ranging from lighthouse keepers’ cottages to bush cabins to beachfront houses.

“We’re particularly excited to see photos in the ‘Remote Country’ category, as more people find their path to lesserknown gems in our regional and remote areas,” Mr Fleming said.

‘Find your Path’ is the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s largest visitor campaign run in partnership with Destination NSW. The campaign establishes NSW as the national parks state offering a range of experiences from snowy summits to secluded beaches.

The inaugural NSW National Parks Photo Competition runs

q The teams at Port Stephens Libraries are ready to welcome children and families along to some great summer fun.

from 13 December 2022 to 31 January 2023.

Terms and conditions are on the NPWS website at https://www.nationalparks. nsw.gov.au/photo-competition.

All photography must be undertaken in a safe manner, keeping distance from animals, respecting cultural heritage and causing no damage to the environment.

Summer is a busy time in our parks and some popular visitor areas may be closed on short notice if they reach capacity.

Check NPWS Alerts before visiting.

Winners will be announced on NSW National Parks Facebook in February 2023, follow at https:// www.facebook.com/ NSWNationalParks/.

To submit a photograph, go to nswparks.info/photocomp

q Photographers have the chance to snap up one of four national park holidays.

Committee completes its review of aspects of the ICAC Act

THE Committee on the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has released its report reviewing aspects of the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988 (the Act).

As part of the inquiry the Committee considered the time standards in place for the ICAC to finalise reports,

the existing mechanism of judicial review, and the role and powers of the Inspector of the ICAC.

The Committee has made three recommendations.

The Chair of the Committee, The Hon. Leslie Williams MP, advised that "these recommendations seek to improve transparency,

facilitate greater accountability and strengthen existing checks and balances".

"The Committee is recommending that the Government amend the Independent Commission Against Corruption Act 1988 to require the ICAC to develop and publish realistic timeframes for publishing investigation reports, and to report against them," said Mrs Williams MP.

"The timeliness of ICAC

reporting is of ongoing interest to the Committee and the wider community. “The Committee has recommended that in its next annual report, the ICAC provide an update on whether the increased funding made available in the 2022-23 annual budget has shortened the time in which investigations are undertaken and reports finalised," said Mrs Williams MP.

"Lastly, the Committee

recommends that the Government consider amending the ICAC Act to provide the Inspector of the ICAC with similar powers to those currently held by the Inspector of the Law Enforcement Conduct Commission.

“These include powers to investigate certain kinds of maladministration and the ability to require the Commission to formally

respond to the Inspector's reports," said Mrs Williams MP.

The Committee received eighteen submissions and heard from a range of stakeholders, including the ICAC, the current former Inspectors of the ICAC, and members of the legal profession at the public hearing held on 4 November 2022.

This report is available on the Committee's webpage.

Lemon Tree Passage to be Home Base for the Queen

By Geoff WALKER

AFTER recent refurbishment, the Wangi Queen will be using Lemon Tree Passage as a home base for future operations in Port Stephens.

As details emerge we will keep you up to date.

One hundred years ago at Empire Bay on the Central Coast, the 'Ettalong' was launched and then began the service of a vessel which has plied the waters of Sydney and Lake Macquarie over so many years.

The craft was based in Sydney from the 1940s through to the 1970s and recently was popular for its 'Convict, Castles and Champagne' outings to Goat Island.

For some 40 years she functioned as a party boat on Lake Macquarie after being renamed the 'Wangi Queen'.

Her owner at the time said she had hosted over 900 weddings and around one million tourists had boarded her.

To stay 'in survey', commercial vessels must undergo an annual inspection and the 'Wangi Queen' was slipped at Albatross Marina Lemon Tree Passage as part of this requirement.

Marina Manager Mike Colecliffe said that their slipway was the largest between Sydney and Port Macquarie.

“We also pride ourselves in being the most competitive slipway in Port Stephens

offering a wide range of services to mariners,” he stated.

Over the years, the marina has hosted some famous sailors and their boats.

These included the 'Winston Churchill' which foundered in the 1998 Hobart yacht race with the loss of three lives.

David Lewis also sought refuge at the marina after a southerly gale blew him off course.

His legendary solo voyage to Antarctica in his 'Ice Bird' remains as one of the greatest navigational feats of all time.

NEW rent bidding regulations came into place on Saturday December 17, banning the practice of solicited rent bidding. .

Minister for Fair Trade Victor Dominello said reforms to regulations under the Property and Stock Agents Regulation announced earlier this week required real estate agents to advertise a rental property with a fixed price –not with a price range or “by negotiation”.

Real estate agents are now prohibited from inviting, suggesting or inducing a prospective tenant to offer an amount higher than the advertised rent for the property.

“No longer will tenants waste countless hours applying for rental properties they think they can afford only to be told to increase their offer to improve their prospects,” Mr Dominello said.

“I encourage real estate agents to familiarise themselves with the new regulations and ensure they comply with them in their

dealings with renters.”

Those who breach the new regulations may be issued an on-the-spot penalty infringement notice of $1,100 for a corporation and $550 for an individual.

The maximum penalties a court can award for noncompliance with the ban on solicited rent bidding are $11,000 for a corporation and $550 for an individual.

“NSW Fair Trading will work with real estate agents to make sure they understand the new regulations” Mr Dominello said.

“While the initial focus of NSW Fair Trading is on

educating the industry, there will also be regular compliance campaigns and strict enforcement action.

New rent bidding rules now in place

“Anyone who believes they have been asked by a real estate agent to increase their offer is encouraged to contact NSW Fair Trading.”

NSW Fair Trading can be contacted by phone on 13 32 20 or online at www. fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ contact-us.

Advice for renters is available on the NSW Fair Trading website at www. fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/ housing-and-property/ renting.

Community encouraged to check devices for emergency alert feature

POLICE are encouraging the public to be mindful on our waterways when carrying mobile phones and smart watches with automated crash detection feature after several false activations.

The default feature on smart mobile phones and watches is designed to alert emergency services via Triple Zero ‘000’ when the device holder has been involved in a crash, in most cases, detecting the rapid

deceleration of a motor vehicle.

Recent marine responses have highlighted that the device can be triggered when it is on board a vessel that is travelling over choppy water or bouncing over waves.

Whilst recognising the effectiveness of the alert feature, officers attached to the Marine Area Command have seen an increase in false activations as the community returns to our waters.

Marine Area Command Commander, Superintendent Murray Reynolds, has urged the community to check their mobile devices for the feature and be aware of its capabilities before getting on the water.

“The feature is becoming increasingly prominent as people update their devices and I encourage the community to check their setting as it may have become a default,” Superintendent

Reynolds said.

“It is just as important to know how to cancel an alert when an emergency response is not required.

“An unintentional activation of this feature when on the water can trigger an extensive response not only from Police, but also Marine Rescue and Surf Life Saving, utilising valuable resources and time,” Superintendent Reynolds said.

www.newsofthearea.com.au

Tips to keep pets happy and healthy this holiday season

RSPCA NSW encourages pet owners to keep the welfare of their furry friends front of mind this festive season.

The holidays are a wonderful time to spend with family and friends, but for our pets, it can be a stressful time of change.

If you decorated your home with festive cheer, try to keep baubles and tinsel out of reach of your pets as they can pose a risk to their health if ingested.

Flashing or shiny ornaments can be mistaken by pets as fun new toys, so please be mindful of where decorations are placed.

Avoid having candy canes or chocolate on display and securely attach larger decorations, such as Christmas trees, to the wall to prevent them from tipping over and injuring your pet.

Exercise your pet before any guests arrive to help prevent any anxiety.

Also ensure that your pets have a calm and quiet spot to go to away from the noise, complete with their own water and food source.

This advice also applies to fireworks displays as animals can be injured by trying to flee from the loud noises.

Stay at home with your pet if you can and before the fireworks do some training, play or exercise, as an animal that has had its needs for enrichment met will able to cope better.

The holidays may be the time of giving but please resist the puppy dog eyes at the dinner table as many foods we consume at this time can be toxic, or even fatal, to the pets we love.

“Small quantities of some lean cooked meat can be given as a treat if your pet has no dietary sensitivities but always avoid feeding cooked bones as they can easily splinter and cause injury to your pet,” said RSPCA NSW Chief Veterinarian Dr. Liz Arnott.

“No holiday is complete without having a holiday emergency plan, this includes knowing your veterinarian’s holiday hours, the location of your nearest emergency clinic and keeping a first-aid kit for your pet on hand, and the security of knowing your pets microchip details are up to date should they manage to stray.”

Visit the RSPCA NSW website for more healthy pet tips and for RSPCA NSW holiday opening hours.

q The 'Wangi Queen' hove to at Lemon Tree Passage, which will become its home base for future operations.

media@newsofthearea.com.au

Anna Bay Tavern

Anna Bay Bakery

BYO Cellars Anna Bay

Anna Bay Surf & Skate

Ingenia Hol Park

Middle Rock Retirement Village

Anna Bay Village

Seawinds Village

Nelson Bay Bowling Club

Nelson Bay Golf Club

Woolworths Nelson Bay

Nelson BayNewsagent

Coles Express Servo Nelson Bay

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

Regis Aged Care

Corlette Store

Uniting Care

Homestead Village

Sandy Shores

Big4 Soldiers Point

Soldiers Point Bowling Club

Foodworks Salamander Bay

Wanda Bch Pharmacy

Mobil Salamander Bay

Caltex Salamander Bay

Coles Salamander Bay

Natural Tucker

Woolworths Salamander Bay

Horizons Golf Club

Taylors Bch Industrial Cafe

Seaham General Store

Opal Aged Care

Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace

Angiez Takeaway Raymond Terrace

Terrace Central Plaza Post Office

Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza

Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza

MarketPlace Woolworths

Raymond Terrace Shell

Lakeside Newsagent

R&R Property

Foodworks Lakeside

Lakeside Leisure Centre

Muree Golf Club

Saxby's Baker Salt Ash

Tanilba Bay Nursing Home

Tanilba Bay Retirement units

Coles Tanilba Bay

Endevour ervo Tanilba Bay

Tanilba Newsagent

Post Office Tanilba Bay

Blue Marine Services

Chemist Lemon Tree Club Lemon Tree

Tilligerry RSL

Bull n Bush Medowie

Coles Medowie

Medowie Newsagent

Medowie Pharmacy

Woolworths Medowie

Medowie Social

BP Servo Medowie

Pacific Dunes Golf Club

Metro Servo (airport side)

Metro Servo (lavis lane)

Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN On theCouch

Dear Jasminda,

MY daughter is a vegetarian and now every time we sit down to a meal that includes meat, she makes the sound of that particular animal. Mealtimes are so unenjoyable.

Mr Luke K.

Dear Luke,

“I love writing your stories” - An end of year message from NOTA reporter Jewell Drury

OPINION

By Jewell DRURY

THURSDAY October 6 2016 saw the official launch of News Of The Area in the Bay, and I was very honoured to be one of the original reporters for the newspaper.

Since those humble beginnings I have seen the News Of The Area increase in size and popularity.

Our newspaper is like no other, with a love of our Port Stephens community and a heart to share the lives and legacy of so many amazing people.

I have had the pleasure of meeting many of our readers and have been truly touched by your kindness, love and community spirit.

I love writing your stories, as I try to share the heart behind your determination, strength, goals and commitment to build and support our community, thank you for being you.

I have lived on the Tomaree Peninsula for more than 26 years, raising my eight children here in our beautiful blue water wonderland.

I love that our newspaper was born out of the passionate hearts of local couple

Mick and Rochelle Wright, who live in Port Stephens with their three beautiful children.

Locally owned and operated with local reporters, each of us passionate about bringing to you a balanced and informative community newspaper, sharing the highs and lows of each other's lives, as we support one another throughout the year.

YOU know sometimes when I seek solutions I turn to philosophy or case law or a thesis written by a student having an existential crisis, and sometimes I need to look no further than Kermit, who made a very valid point when he sang, ‘It’s not easy being green.’ Despite all the information out there on the benefits to ourselves and our planet when we cut down or even cut out meat, vegetarians get a bad rap. Vegans are for some akin to the anti-Christ, such is the level of hatred and taunting they receive for making what is often an ethical decision based on being kind to other creatures who have no say in their destiny.

q Jewell Drury.

I would like to leave you all with a blessing for Christmas and for the coming year.

"May the Lord bless you and keep you, make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

May he turn his face toward you and give you peace.

May his favour be upon you and a thousand generations and your family and your children and their children and their children.

May his presence go before you and behind you and beside you, all around you and within you, and may he keep us all safe until we meet again."

Still, your daughter’s approach is a bit inyour-face, and that is part of the issue. Some vegans and vegos happily go about their lives without discussing their choices and others, like the militant vegan, chain themselves to abattoirs and post videos of pigs squealing and chickens being boiled alive, which is a bit unpalatable when you’re sitting down to your Sunday bacon and egg roll.

Dinners must be a rollicking affair at your place, Mr LK. I can imagine your wife bringing her casserole to the table and your daughter warming up her vocal chords before starting a plaintive rendition of Old MacDonald Had a Farm. It is enough to put anyone off their meal. May I suggest you serve fish? Then you will just have to sit there and watch her silently gulping, which, although distracting, is certainly quieter.

Carpe diem, Jasminda.

Nelson Bay Golf Club Results

TUESDAY

20 DECEMBER 2022

Womens Stableford: Xmas Bush Course

A1 Barbara Frost (17) 42

A2 Rhondda Shaw (17) 40c/b

B1 Anne Milne (33) 40

B2 Sharon Stevenson (27) 39c/b

C2 Peter Dee (36) 39

C2 Mark Baker (30) 40 C3 Stephen Barrett (29) 39

Women’s Stableford: Gymea Lily course

A1 Sharon Stevenson (26) 39 A2 Linda Drake (22) 38

SATURDAY

24 DECEMBER 2022

Harvey Payne (15) 37 C/B

Chris Hani (21) 38

Chris Drake (7) 37

Ian Edmunds (22) 36 C/B

Margaret Stalgis (30) 36; 2 Anita Hutchinson (31) 35 C/

MONDAY 19 DECEMBER 2022 VETS STABLEFORD: 1 David Diemar 23 2 Geoffrey Brown 22

WEDNESDAY

21 DECEMBER 2022

MENS STABLEFORD:

Xmas Bush Course

A1 Zach Semmens (14) 40

A2 Brian Pobje (14) 37 c/b

B1 Lochlan Stewart (21) 43

B2 Paul Wheatley (19) 40

C1 John Delaney (24) 39

C2 Elio Rigon (26) 38 c/b

MENS STABLEFORD:

Brushbox Course

A1 Geoffrey Wardle (14) 38

A2 Phillipe Donoso (9) 37 c/b

B1 John Mudie (16) 39 c/b

B2 Trevor Plane (19) 39

C1 Michael Wojko (26) 39 c/b

media@newsofthearea.com.au

Hemberg (36) 39

Jenny Frost (9) 38

FRIDAY 23 DECEMBER 2022 Mens Stableford: Xmas bush course A1 Neil Edwards (12) 38

Lachlan Lawson (0) 37 c/b

Nick Matwijow (1) 37 B1 Col Herring (19) 43 B2 Stephen Rapson (17) 42 B3 Warren Andrews (22) 40 C1 Neil Edwards #2 (25) 40 c/b

Mens Stableford: Gymea Lily Course

A1 Will Semmems (3)38c/b A2: Zach Semmens (13)38.

B1: Tim Maher (18) 39

B2: Peter Fagan (17) 36

C1: Penton Sutcliffe (28) 35 C2: Robert Henderson (24) 34 Mens Stableford:

Brush Course

A Grade:

1. Cameron Goodwin (14) 40c/b

A2: Stuart Phegan (7) 40

B1: Ryan Payne (18) 38c/b

B2: Chris Brunt (16) 38

C1: Richard Graystone (26) 35

C2: Ian Sandy (24) 33c/b

READING by Lynne Miles: Luke 2: 8 - 11 "There were shepherds in the fields keeping watch over their flocks by night. An angel of the LORD suddenly appeared before them and the glory of the LORD shone all around them and they were afraid. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid for I bring good tidings of great joy which will be for all people. Today in the city of David, a Saviour has been born for you, who is Christ the LORD.""

Four decades of random breath testing marked by decline in road fatalities

DEPUTY Premier and Minister for Police, Paul Toole has joined Transport for NSW and NSW Police Force to mark four decades of random breath testing on NSW roads, ahead of the Christmas/New Year holiday period.

Saturday 17 December 2022 marked the 40th anniversary of the introduction of random breath testing across NSW roads.

Prior to random breath testing, the state’s annual road toll regularly surpassed 1,200 fatalities, and authorities recognised that measures needed to be introduced to address the issue.

In 1982 NSW became one of the first jurisdictions in the world and the first in Australia to introduce random breath testing.

Prior to the introduction

of random breath testing police could only stop a motorist due to their manner of driving.

In the first five years following the introduction of random breath testing across the state, road fatalities fell from 1,303 in 1980 to 1,067 in 1985.

In 1980, the percentage of road fatalities linked to drink driving was 30 percent.

Of the 275 road fatalities recorded in NSW last year (2021), seventeen percent were attributed to drink driving – cutting the percentage by almost half and reducing the number of alcohol related fatalities by 88 percent.

In January 2007 NSW Police also commenced testing motorists for drug driving.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Police Paul Toole

said community attitudes have shifted over the last four decades.

“Today, drivers are well aware that they could be stopped for a random drug or breath test anywhere and at any time,” Minister Toole said.

“The statistics speak for themselves - since RBTs were introduced, thousands of lives have been saved.

“We all want to ensure everyone gets home safely to their loved ones this Christmas period – and no one should rob a family of that with a selfish decision to get behind the wheel after they’ve been drinking.

“If you are planning to have a few drinks over the festive season, leave the car at home and have a Plan B.”

Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner Brett

Another Year Gone

OPINION

By Marian SAMPSON

AS we bid farewell to 2022 I can’t help but think about the year and the important issues that I have shared with my local community through the NOTA.

I can say with some pride that I write for a growing, sustainable publication which shares local news from Port Stephens to north of the Coffs Coast.

For me the highlight of the year has to be seeing the Green Sea Turtles being released back into the wild by the incredible team at Sea Shelter - Beryl, the last release, literally created a bow wave in her rush to freedom.

However, for me this has created deeper awareness of the problems associated with pollution in our marine environment.

One of the turtles released lost a flipper due to a fishing line tangle.

These creatures are categorised as vulnerable and they are particularly at risk from pollution including fishing line tangles, plastic bags and balloons abandoned in the

environment.

In the Myall Coast NOTA, I have written extensively about the local dingo population and I hope that the articles, based strongly on University research and input from ecologists, will help to preserve our five local packs of dingoes and see a change in the way the community views what a dingo is and what a wild dog is.

In sharing information about this ancient species I hope to break some of the stereotypes and potentially help to change the management of dingoes in our state - something which I have become very passionate about.

The key message for these wonderful animals is “Please Don’t Feed The Dingoes!”.

For those that aren’t aware, the dingoes around Hawks Nest and the Myall Coast need protection, and one of their greatest threats is human interaction.

Again in the animal kingdom, writing about our local koala population and the work of the Port Stephens Koala Hospital has been a rewarding experience.

From the responses to the stories that I have written about these beautiful creatures and the dedicated volunteers that care for those in need, I know their tales have brought joy and hope to our readers.

Writing about citizen scientists and environmental groups like Landcare has also been a wonderful experience.

Of course there have also been stories about politics, and COVID.

The year has also seen the ongoing fight to save vulnerable land from development and sale including the now infamous 109 Foreshore Drive at Salamander Bay and another plot of foreshore land at Anna Bay.

Our community also came together to fight what it saw as the inappropriate development of a heliport adjacent to the Anna Bay Cemetery - an issue which incensed locals who wish to be able to take time to reflect at the graves of their loved ones in peace.

This issue is now going before the Land and Environment Court.

The community is on notice in relation to the Tomaree Lodge site and sharing the potential future that this site offers as a tourism hub inspires me to remind everyone to get online and have your say - you only have

McFadden said alcohol and drug driving was still a major concern for police.

“Despite road fatalities having dropped since the introduction of RBT, it is still disturbing that many drivers can’t see an issue with having a few drinks, or consuming illicit drugs, before getting behind the wheel,” Assistant Commissioner McFadden said.

“Getting behind the wheel of a car under the influence – no matter how much you consume – is not a sign of someone who is in control, it’s a sign of someone who can be up to 25 times more likely to be involved in a crash because of their state of intoxication.

“Our aim is to bring alcohol and drug-related fatalities to zero.

“Alcohol and drug-related fatalities are 100 percent avoidable.

“The message is simple –

don’t drink or take drugs and drive, have a plan ‘B’ if you’re planning on having a few, and speak up if you see someone getting behind the wheel under the influence.

“We all have a part to play in keeping our roads safe.”

Minister for Metropolitan Roads Natalie Ward said since the introduction of RBT, we have seen alcohol related road deaths fall from 389 in 1980 to 47 in 2021.

“RBT has been key in driving down drink driving, saving an estimated 9,100 lives in NSW since it began and preventing the trauma those deaths would have caused to many more,” Mrs Ward said.

“Drink driving still contributes to about fifteen to 20 percent of deaths on NSW roads each year, so I’m urging all drivers to help us reduce that to zero.”

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads

until 6 January to let the powers that be know what you want to see on this site!

The controversial issues that I have written about this year include the incursion on to the public domain by foreshore residents, the Council’s proposed SRV, the proposed development of Bannisters, roaming of goats on environmentally sensitive land at Anna Bay, the now iconic “Anna Bay Eyesore” and the issue of Port Stephens councillors going missing from council action.

I have been privileged to share stories of strength and courage and of our community coming together to support those in need.

To all the amazing charities and for all the wonderful work you do that I have been able to share, it has been an honour to share your work and selflessness - I find the selfless acts of our community’s volunteers humbling.

On a slightly different note, sharing the milestones of the PBL award winners throughout the year is one of the things which I feel is important - not because of the individual actsbut because these awards recognise the good in our youth.

The students who win these awards are not necessarily the fastest or the smartest, but they are the kindest, the most caring and honest and as a parent I know how important awards like these are.

I have connected with local groups and associations like Probus, the CWA, the RSL subBranches, Emergency Services, Rotary, Lions Clubs, schools, arts, sporting groups and morethere are simply too many to name.

All of these connections have been an enriching experience.

All of these groups provide wonderful benefits to our community; from keeping us safe to keeping us connected, the spirit of our local community is strong.

I would like to also thank all the contributors that share ideas, stories and images for the reading pleasure of our community.

I have shared the highs and the lows - and while not everyone will agree with all of the stories that the NOTA has shared, I have faith in the process and balance which the NOTA brings to local issues.

My message to family and friends and community for the holiday season is to stay safe, be happy, tell those who matter to you that you love them and take the time to stop and smell the roses.

Sam Farraway said the introduction of RBT laws was a watershed moment for NSW in helping reduce the road toll.

“It also marked a change in community attitudes and driver behaviour towards drink driving from being almost socially acceptable – to now being generally regarded as reckless behaviour that puts lives at risk.

“We also know from attitudinal research of NSW drivers, that drink and drug driving enforcement has high levels of community support.” Mr Farraway said.

“Throughout its 40 years, RBT has been well supported by large scale public education campaigns to further deter drink driving, from our ‘Will you be under .05 or under arrest?’ in the 1980s through to our ‘Plan B’ and ‘Stop it. Or Cop it’ campaigns today.”

SPORT

Tilligerry Social Golf Club Results

Tilligerry Social Golf Club results for 23/12/22

Outright winner.

Hugh Potts. 47 Runner up. Bill McMaster. 46 Bonus points winner. Ron McKay 45 c/b Runner up.

Wendy Couvaras. 45 Ball winners. Adam Cowie. 44, Colin Marsden. 43, John Clayton. 41, Matt Baldwin. 41, Kel Dorney. 40 Bradman Award.

Brian Riddell D&C4th.

A Ron McKay.

B. Adam Cowie D&C7th.

A. John Clayton.

B. Adam Cowie NTP18th.

A Matt Baldwin Money hole

A. Jack Johnstone. Lucky number 14. Brian Baldwin

There were 15 starters today. Congratulations to all the winners.

A fun mufty day with Kel Dorney and Hugh Potts taking out the Mulligans prize money. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas especially our members who are experiencing health issues, we wish you a speedy recovery.

Next game Friday 30/12/22.

q Marian Sampson is a local that has written for News Of The Area for over 6 years - sharing what is important to our community. Photo by Marian Sampson.

NEWS OF THE AREA

How do you talk to a giant?

Use big words.

What animal is always at a baseball game?

A bat.

What falls in winter but never gets hurt?

Snow.

What did the Dalmatian say after lunch?

That hit the spot.

Why did the kid cross the playground?

To get to the other slide.

What do you call a droid that takes the long way around?

R2 detour.

Why did the cookie go to the hospital?

Because he felt crummy.

Why was the baby strawberry crying?

Because her mom and dad were in a jam.

What did the little corn say to the mama corn? Where is pop corn?

YOU'RE JOKIN'

How do you make a lemon drop?

Just let it fall.

What did the limestone say to the geologist?

Don’t take me for granite.

Why does a seagull fly over the sea?

Because if it flew over the bay, it would be a baygull.

My return to print journalismJohn Sayhoun

The perfect entry level home or investment!

28 Alton Close, Raymond Terrace

Price: $565,000 - $620,000

EMILY Abela from R&R Property would like to present to the market 28 Alton Close, Raymond Terrace!

This neat and tidy brick home has a tile roof and features three generous bedrooms, one three-way bathroom and will be provided with vacant possession!

Whether you are an investor looking to build your portfolio or a first home buyer this one will tick all the boxes!

By John SAHYOUN

QUITE out of the blue the publisher contacts me and asks if I’d be interested in reporting for the News Of The Area.

It’s been a number of years since I’d last been involved in print journalism so I was a bit hesitant at first but I thought it would be a great opportunity to inform the public on what is going on in our area.

I was contacted by the editor and would you believe it I was on a train at the time returning from Sydney where I was attending an award presentation for being published in an anthology.

In recent years besides a couple of short stories I’ve been involved mainly in academic writing and business papers which are totally different to weekly news stories but there was a challenge there.

The home has an open plan kitchen and dining area, and the living area off this space, which is separated by double cavity frame doors, with large windows that let in lots of natural light, a great sized kitchen with electric cooking and oven and a three-way main bathroom with separate toilet, bath, and shower.

There are cypress pine floorboards throughout the home and a reverse-cycle airconditioning system in the living area which cools or heats the whole home perfectly!

All three bedrooms are spacious in size and feature cypress pine floorboards with the main bedroom having a built-in robe.

The home is on an approximately 556sqm block which has low maintenance grounds, side access down to the single garage and workshop and a Colourbond fenced backyard.

The property is located only a five minutes drive to sporting facilities, parks, the Hunter and Williams River boat ramp, and local shopping centres.

Approximate rental return is $550 - $580 per week Council rates are approximately $393 per quarter and the property is on town services.

Recently I had got up at the crack of dawn to finish off a couple of stories and while I was working away the power unit of my computer went snap, crackle and pop and I was left looking at a blank screen.

My response is of course unprintable!

With the deadline fast approaching and the editor wanting something for this week's paper it was a matter of firing up another computer and getting it going and rapidly putting something together.

It turned out all good.

To pick out my favourite story in the past few weeks is like picking out your favoured child in your family.

I’ve been fortunate in that I’m involved with many community organisations so there have been many great yarns that I’ve looked at.

I want to say that all of them are my favourites as every story is worth telling.

I would encourage all of you who have something to tell to consider joining our team and sharing the items that are newsworthy in our area.

For Further Information please call Emily Abela on 0476 551 276.

Sometimes it is the backstory which is interesting and never sees the light of day.

Free

TWO drawer metal filing cabinet, Outdoor heater on stand, Microwave in working condition Black computer chair reasonable cond Ph: 0438 565 841

For Sale

DVD movies incl. drama and westerns, mainly last 5-20 years. Incl 1 TV series 10x10 disks $60 Ph: 02 4966 5000 F180822

ELECTRIC Heaters 1 Electric 700mm x 360mm 2000 watts 1 Oil filled 2400 watts $40 for both. Please ring 0404 724 347

MOBILITY Scooter 4 wheel. Good cond. with front basket, rear bag and charger. $1400 Free delivery Ph: 0418 430 643

For Sale

25 CD compilations Newcastle Top 40 classics 50s-70s. $90 Ph: 02 4966 5000 F180822

EUROPEAN Single adjust slatted bedframes & 2 latex mattresses VGC $350 each PH: 49979797

WASHING machine Fisher Paykell, limited use, VGC. $250. 4982 9942 Re050123

WASHING Machine Westinghouse Top loader, 8KG bowl, used 4 times. Bought $1020 early December, will sell $700. Ph: 4997 0331 Tea Gardens pickup

4 x 17”x 6” Steel rims, fitted with 255/65x17 Dunlop AT23 tyres. Suit current Nissan Navara $130ea ono. Ph 0404 094 028 WORK bench 136cm L $100 Ph: 4938 5923

BEDSIDE Chest 3 drawer $20. 4982 2335

RAIL Corp Wall telephones and desktop push buttom phone 90’s Nokia Mobile 6300 in box, charger and manual 00’s. Samsung mobile and charger 00’s. 2 x Motorola units, chargers with info 90’s. Cheap best offers 4981 7523

RECLINER Lay-Z-Boy Jason $250 4982 3521

BICYCLES 1 x mens 1 x womens $50 each Ph: 0427 879 025

BLACK glass-top electric stove 60cm 4 burners $45 Ph: 0476 241 165

SUNBEAM food saver VAC420 with bags, half price $55. 49826443

SWEDISH, Salomon road skis & stocks. $99 Call 0419 932 992.

BRAND new, unused porcelain toilet bowl and seat. $95. Nerong 0419932992.

GOLF set leather bag, Slazenger cart woods steels extras. $250. Ph 0476 789 721

GOOD antique Queen Anne dressing table with mirror $60 Ph 0429 601 039

GUITAR left-handed Redding as new never played with soft case $230 Ph: 4981 9939 ReS281222

HALL

edges Needs legs, strong and sturdy top. 110x60cm $20 Ph: 4981 7523

Boats

10.5mtr Crowther Trimaran. 1double 3singles, all rigging sails, 40ltrs water stove, sink. $10,000ono Call 0427 497 245

DARK timber four draw desk with optional upper hood three shelves also slide out laptop desk shelf. $40. Desk chair. $30 Swivel large adjustable comfortable chair. Good used Ph: 0401 546 848 Sandy, Tanilba Bay

COSMOPOLITAN Travelling port, half price, $85 used once 4982 6443 F110822

HOME Office, Solid wood Lockable Computer shelving $60.00 Phone Sam

PORT STEPHENS C O L O U R I N G in Competition

Prizes:

• Main prize is to become a Koala Crusader with the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.

The Prize includes a 12 month Annual Entry Pass, a pledge certificate, plush Koala, baseball cap, lapel pin, sticker and writing pen. Prize value is $129.

• 6 Runner up prizes of a Family pass to the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. Entry is for 2 adults and 2 children (aged 4-13 years). Prize is valued at $72.

The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary Hospital cares for koalas from Port Stephens and the Myall Coast Regions as well as from further afield when there is an animal in need so please get behind our local heroes and plan a visit to the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary this school holidays. www.

portstephenskoalas. com.au.

Winners will be announced on 13 January 2023 by phone.

Please post entries to: PO Box 1000, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324.

Take part in the News Of The Area colouring in competition this school holidays to be in with the chance to win one of 7 great prizes.

FRIDAY ISLE OF DOGS

7FLIX, 5.15pm

Say this comedy’s title quickly enough and you’ll hear the adorable hidden meaning behind Wes Anderson’s canine caper: “I love dogs”. The stylish affair follows 12-year-old Atari (voice of Koyu Rankin) and his dog Spots (Liev Schreiber), who have been separated after an outbreak of dog flu, saw the mayor deport all dogs to an island of landfill. This quickly gives way to a heartfelt tale as Atari teams up with five pups (Bryan Cranston, Edward Norton, Jeff Goldblum, Bob Balaban and Bill Murray) to scour the island for his friend.

SUNDAY BIG FAT QUIZ OF THE YEAR 2022

SBS, 7.30pm

So you stayed up past your bedtime and overindulged on New Year’s Eve? Whether you’re tired, headachy or run down after the season’s festivities, this special British treat is a side-splitting way to welcome in the New Year and unwind. It’s a festive stalwart that has tickled audiences’ funny bones for almost 20 years, with it’s pub-style quiz format a laid-back antidote to the hectic time of year. Acidic host, comedian Jimmy Carr (right), is a pro at baiting his guests. This time, Jonathan Ross, Rose Matafeo, Katherine Ryan, Stephen Merchant, Richard Ayoade and Maisie Adam are behind the buzzers to see who has the best memory about the events of 2022.

MONDAY BACK ROADS

ABC, 8pm

Heather Ewart’s

series’ 100th episode than by honouring a dead-set Aussie icon: the pub. Season nine kicks off with a one-off exposé of some of Ewart’s favourite “locals” and their fascinating stories. The universal destination for sporting triumphs, meat raffles and friendly catch-ups alike, Ewart traces the history of our watering holes and how they have evolved from male-dominated spaces to a place where families, politicians – and sometimes even horses – love to gather.

A political journalist researches the story of a Catholic woman who gave birth out of wedlock in ‘50s Ireland. Judi Dench, Steve Coogan.

10.40 Troppo. (Malv, R)

11.40 Adam Hills: The Last Leg Christmas Bash. (Mal, R) 12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Engineering Reborn. (PG) 8.30 Inside Central Station: Man Falls In Train. (Ma, R) Narrated by Shane Jacobson. 9.25 Why Buildings Collapse. (PGa, R) 10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Gomorrah. (MA15+v, R) 1.45 The Kimberley Cruise: The Full Journey. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 5. Morning session. (Please note: alternative schedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 12.30 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 5. Afternoon session. 3.10 Test Cricket: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. Second Test. Aust v South Africa. Late afternoon session.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Johanna Griggs checks out Thread Together.

8.30 MOVIE: The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring. (2001, Mhv, R) In a mythic land, a young hobbit discovers that a ring, owned by his eccentric uncle, is a source of ultimate evil. Together with his friends, they set off on a journey to deliver the cursed item to an Elven outpost. Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Sean Astin.

12.00 MOVIE: An American Affair. (1997, Msv, R) Corbin Bernsen. 2.00 Home Shopping.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) Highlights from the year in review. 10.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 2. Group stage. 4.30 Afternoon News. 5.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (R) Hosted by Eddie McGuire.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 2. Group stage. From Pat Rafter Arena, Brisbane. From RAC Arena, Perth. From Ken Rosewall Arena, Sydney.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Take Two. (R) Home shopping.

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Mark and the gang organise a surprise birthday party for Clancy only to have him become stranded in the park.

6.30 The Project. Special guests include Channing Tatum.

7.30 MOVIE: Transformers. (2007, Mv, R) A teen becomes entangled in a battle between two groups of robots after they land on Earth. Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel.

6.00 Morning Programs. 7.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 8.00 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 8.30 Studio 10. (PG) 11.00 Wildlife Rescue. (PGm, R) 12.00 Dr Phil. (PGa, R) 1.00 Living Room. (R) 2.00 Ent. Tonight. 2.30 GCBC. (R) 3.00 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 3.30 My Market Kitchen. (R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Jamie’s Easy Meals For Every Day. (R) 5.00 News. 6.10 Grand Designs Revisited. (R) Hosted by Kevin McCloud. 7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at today’s top stories. 7.30 Death In Paradise: Christmas Special. (Ma) Selwyn’s past comes back to haunt him. 9.05 MOVIE: Philomena. (2013, Mal, R)

10.20 MOVIE: Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen. (2009, Mdsv, R) In the wake of his previous encounter with the Decepticons and the Autobots, a teenager heads to university. Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox.

1.15 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Late-night talk show.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Yearly With Charlie Pickering 2022. (PG, R)

8.30 NYE 2022: The Early Night Show. A big night of entertainment and music.

9.00 NYE 2022: 9pm Fireworks. Coverage of the pre-midnight fireworks.

9.15 NYE 2022: Happy New Year Concert. (PG) An all-star concert.

11.35 NYE 2022: Countdown To Midnight. (PG)

12.00 NYE 2022: Midnight Fireworks. (PG)

12.10 NYE 2022: Auld Lang Syne.

12.20 Rage NYE Special. (MA15+adhlnsv)

Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 11.05 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00

Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix. Final. H’lights.

3.35 Rovers: Return To Country. (PG, R) 4.15

The Truth Tellers: 10 Years Of NITV News. (R) 5.10 Europe’s Greatest Train Journeys.

6.10 Dinner For One. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Lucille Ball: We Love Lucy. (PGal, R)

9.10 Adele: 30 Greatest Moments.

10.40 Willie Nelson: Life & Songs Of An American Outlaw.

12.15 Big Fat Quiz Of Everything. (Mls, R)

1.55 The Indian Pacific: The Full Journey. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Shopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 12.00 Jabba’s School Holiday Movies. (PGv, R) 12.30 MOVIE: Doc Hollywood. (1991, PGalns, R) 2.45 Surveillance Oz Dashcam. (PGl, R) 3.00 Beach Cops. (PG, R) 3.30 Border Security: Int. (PG, R) 4.00 Better Homes. (R) 5.00 News. 5.30 Border Security. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 MOVIE: A Dog’s Purpose. (2017, PGa) A dog finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he comes into contact with. Dennis Quaid, Josh Gad, Britt Robertson.

9.05 MOVIE: New Year’s Eve. (2011, Ml, R) Intertwining stories of couples and singles set on New Year’s Eve in New York, which celebrate the opportunities the special day offers for love, hope, forgiveness, second chances and fresh starts.

Michelle Pfeiffer, Zac Efron, Ashton Kutcher. 11.30 ABBA: The Missing 40 Years. (PGs, R)

12.30 Home Shopping.

Country House Hunters Australia. Hosted by Catriona Rowntree.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 MOVIE: Mamma Mia! (2008, PGls, R)

A young woman prepares for her wedding.

Amanda Seyfried, Meryl Streep.

9.40 MOVIE: Xanadu. (1980, G, R)

A beautiful Greek muse incarnates herself on Earth and inspires a man to build a gigantic disco roller-rink. Olivia Newton-John, Gene Kelly.

11.35 MOVIE: Can’t Stop The Music. (1980, PGdls, R) Valerie Perrine. 2.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.00 The Graham Norton Show. (PGlsv, R) Guests include Jessica Chastain.

7.30 MOVIE: Top Gun. (1986, Ms, R) Students at an elite US flying school for advanced fighter pilots compete against each other to be the best in the class. Tom Cruise, Kelly McGillis.

9.45 MOVIE: Ocean’s 8. (2018, Ml, R) The estranged sister of notorious thief Danny Ocean sets out to pull off a heist of her own. Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett. 11.55 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlsv, R) Guests include Jessica Chastain. 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Authentic. (PG) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

Gala.

6am

Staged.

6.10 NYE 2022: Midnight Fireworks. (PG, R)

6.20 NYE 2022: Auld Lang Syne. (R)

6.30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 MOVIE: Strictly Ballroom. (1992, PG, R) Paul Mercurio.

9.05 Wreck. (MA15+v, R) A young man goes to work on a cruise ship.

9.50 Mystify: Michael Hutchence. (Mal, R)

11.30 Mystery Road. (Mdlv, R)

2.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.00 Classic Countdown. (PG, R)

5.00 Think Tank. (PG, R)

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 Movie Show. Noon Dave Gorman: Terms And Conditions. 12.55 Wellington Paranormal. 1.25 American Song Contest. 3.05 WorldWatch. 4.30 Mastermind Aust. 5.35 Fashionista. 5.45 Vs Arashi. 6.40 Fast History Of Toys. 7.30 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 Taskmaster’s New Year’s Treat. 9.25 Taskmaster. 10.20 Late Programs.

Selkie.

Continued. (2000, PG) 6.25 The Final Countdown. (1980, M) 8.20 Ramen Shop. (2018, PG) 10.00 Lean On Me. (1989, M) Noon Molly’s Game. (2017, M) 2.35 Emu Runner. (2018, PG) 4.25 Tenderness. (2013, PG, French) 5.55 2001: A Space Odyssey. (1968) 8.30 The Truth. (2019, PG, French) 10.30 Viva. (2015, Spanish) 12.45am Curiosa.

6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 10.00 Creek To Coast. 10.30 Weekender. 11.00 House Of Wellness. Noon Horse Racing. From Rosehill, The Valley and Doomben. 6.00 Border Security: International. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 9.30 Escape To The Perfect Town. 10.30 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 12.30am Escape To The Country. 1.30 Late Programs.

6am Turning Point. 6.30 TV Shop. 7.00 Leading The Way. 7.30 TV Shop. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 TV Shop. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 Destination Australia. 11.00 MOVIE: The Blue Lamp. (1950, PG) 12.45pm MOVIE: The Oracle. (1953) 2.30 MOVIE: The Jazz Singer. (1980) 5.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 3. Group stage. 10.00 MOVIE: Mona Lisa Smile. (2003, PG) 12.25am Late Programs.

6am Shopping. 9.00 Healthy Homes Aust. 9.30 Australia By Design: Innovations. 10.00 4x4 Adventures. 11.00 Roads Less Travelled. Noon The Love Boat. 1.00 ST: Next Gen. 2.00 Waltzing Jimeoin. 2.30 Stories Of Bikes. 3.00 MacGyver. 5.00 Scorpion. 6.00 Reel Action. 6.30 Soccer. A-League Men. Matchweek 10. Central Coast Mariners v Melbourne Victory. 9.30 MacGyver. 10.25 NCIS: Los Angeles. 11.20 Late Programs.

4.00 Storage Wars. 5.00 Leepu

Last Stop Garage. 6.30

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.10 Blue Water Safari. 10.10 Love Your Garden. (R) 11.05 Paul O’Grady For The Love Of Dogs Xmas. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix. NHK Trophy. H’lights. 4.05 Sensei: Australia’s Karate Master. (PG, R) 4.55 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 5.30 Europe’s Greatest Train Journeys.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Big Fat Quiz Of The Year 2022. Presented by Jimmy Carr.

9.10 MOVIE: The Father. (2020) An ageing man suffering from dementia tries to make sense of his changing circumstances. Anthony Hopkins, Olivia Colman.

11.00 MOVIE: La Belle Époque. (2019, MA15+ans, R) Daniel Auteuil.

1.10 The Indian Pacific: The Full Journey. (R)

4.10 Bamay. (R)

5.00 NHK World English News Morning.

5.15 France 24 Feature.

7TWO ABC TV PLUS (22) ABC TV PLUS (22)

(62) 7TWO (62) VICELAND (31) VICELAND

Secrets Of The Supercars.

6.00 Shopping. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 12.00 Surveillance Oz Dashcam. (PG, R) 12.30 Beach Cops. (PG, R) 1.00 Border Security: Int. (PG, R) 1.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 24. Melbourne Renegades v Perth Scorchers. 5.00 News. 5.30 Sydney Weekender.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 25. Brisbane Heat v Sydney Sixers. From the Gabba, Brisbane. 11.00 7NEWS Spotlight: The Confession. (R) Documents the homecoming of Cassandra Sainsbury, who was caught with drugs in Colombia. 12.00 The Good Doctor. (Ma, R) Shaun proposes a radical surgery to save a newlywed woman’s life.

1.00 Home Shopping.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 60 Minutes.

8.00 RBT. (PGal) Follows the activities of police units.

8.30 MOVIE: Deep Impact. (1998, Mal, R) A comet is on a collision course with Earth. Morgan Freeman, Robert Duvall.

11.00 The First 48. (Mal)

5.30 Al Jazeera News.

7.20am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon The Beach. 2.50 The Jeff Bezos Empire: The Rise And Reign Of Amazon. 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.30 Insight. 5.30 The Bee Whisperer. 6.35 Dynamo: Top Ten Greatest Moments. 7.30 RocKwiz Salutes The Legends. 9.30 50 Years Of Star Trek. 11.10 WWE Legends. 12.40am Detective Chinatown. 2.20 Dark Side Of The ‘90s. 3.10 Late Programs.

5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. Takes a look at the latest news, sport and weather, with business and finance updates.

6am Morning Programs. 1pm The Yorkshire Vet. 2.00 DVine Living. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 3.30 One Road: Great Australian Road Trips. 4.00 Penelope Keith’s Hidden Villages. 5.00 Escape To The Perfect Town. 6.00 Air Crash Investigation: Special Report. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 Heathrow. 9.30 Air Crash Investigation. (Return) 11.30 Late Programs.

(PGa)

Osteen.

My Market Kitchen. (R) 9.00 Destination Dessert. 9.30 The Savoy. (PGl, R) 11.40 MOVIE: Poms. (2019, PGls, R) 1.35 MOVIE: Paris Can Wait. (2016, PGal, R) 3.30 Exploring Off The Grid. (Premiere, PGl) 4.00 All 4 Adventure. (PGal) 5.00 News.

(R)

6.30 The Dog House. Dogs are matched with companions.

7.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls) Graham Norton is joined by Olivia Colman, Romesh Ranganathan, Hugh Laurie and Leah Williamson.

9.00 MOVIE: The Gentlemen.

(2019, MA15+lv) An American criminal kingpin is looking to cash out of a highly profitable empire. Matthew McConaughey, Charlie Hunnam, Hugh Grant.

11.20 MOVIE: A Quiet Place. (2018, Mhv, R) A family struggles to survive in a post-apocalyptic world. John Krasinski. 1.10 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

6am Home Shopping. 7.30 Key Of David. 8.00 All 4 Adventure. 9.00 Pat Callinan’s 4x4 Adventures. 10.00 Reel Action. 11.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 11.30 Buy To Build. Noon Roads Less Travelled. 12.30 Scorpion. 1.30 Pooches At Play. 2.00 Destination Dessert. 2.30 Soccer. A-League Men. Matchweek 10. Newcastle Jets v Sydney FC. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 NCIS. 10.20 48 Hours. 11.15 Late Programs.

5.00 Think Tank. (PG, R)

Lost Family.

9.00 Cook Up Bitesize. (R) 9.10 Peer To Peer. (PG) 10.10 Legacy List. (PGa, R) 11.15 Great Canal Journeys. (PG, R) 12.10 WorldWatch. 2.10 Saving Lives At Sea. (PGa, R) 3.20 The Wonderful World Of Chocolate. (PGa, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 1. H’lights.

6.00 Seven News.

6am

6.00

Old People’s Home

For 4 Year Olds. (R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R)

8.00 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R)

8.30 Love On The Spectrum. (PG, R)

9.25 Miriam’s Big Fat Adventure. (Ml, R)

10.25 The Truth About Getting Fit At Home. (PG, R) 11.25 Mystery Road. (Malv, R) 2.10 The Detectives. (Mal, R) 3.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.35 One Plus One. (R) 5.00 Think Tank. (PG, R)

7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 26. Hobart Hurricanes v Adelaide Strikers. From Blundstone Arena, Hobart. 11.00 The Spin. Lisa Sthalekar, Brad Hodge and Jason Richardson take a look into the world of cricket.

11.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments captured on camera by members of the public. 12.30 Home Shopping. 5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. Takes a look at the latest news, sport and weather, with business and finance updates.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG)

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 5. Group stage. From Pat Rafter Arena, Brisbane, RAC Arena, Perth and Ken Rosewall Arena, Sydney.

12.30 Almost Family. (Mas) Edie finds herself at a crossroads.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.

4.30 Hello SA. (PG, R) The team rediscovers two favourite hotels.

5.00 News Early Edition.

5.30 Today.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R)

7.30 MOVIE: Raiders Of The Lost Ark. (1981, Mv, R) An archaeologist and adventurer sets out on a quest to recover the fabled Ark of the Covenant. Harrison Ford, Karen Allen.

9.55 MOVIE: Transformers: Dark Of The Moon. (2011, Mlv, R) The Autobots discover humans have been hiding the existence of a crashed spacecraft on the Moon. Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Tyrese Gibson.

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

SKY NEWS (53)

6am Sky News Breakfast. 7.00 Sky News Breakfast. 8.00 Sky News Breakfast. 9.00 First Edition. 10.00 NewsDay. 11.00 NewsDay. Noon NewsDay. 1.00 NewsDay. 2.00 Afternoon Agenda. 3.00 Afternoon Agenda. 4.00 Afternoon Agenda. 5.00 NewsNight. 6.00 Inside The News. 7.00 The Evening Update. 8.00 China Rising. 9.00 NewsNight. 10.00 NewsNight. 11.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Michael Mosley’s Health Intervention. (R) 8.30 Heritage Rescue: Oxburgh Hall. (PG) Part 1 of 5. 9.30 Secrets Of Playboy: The Bunnies And The Clean Up Crew. (MA15+) 10.20 Battle Of Alcatraz. (Mav, R) 11.10 Reunions. (Mals, R) 12.10 The A Word. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight. 6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? US. (R) 8.30 Lies, Politics And Democracy. 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Cheyenne & Lola. (Malnsv) 12.00 Unit One. (Mlv, R) 4.15 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

(31)

6am WorldWatch. 6.50 The 77 Percent. 7.20 WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Dave Gorman: Modern Life Is Goodish. 2.45 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 3.00 Bizarre Foods. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’s Castle. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Taskmaster. 9.25 Hypothetical. 10.20 WWE Legends. 11.55 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 11.00 Better Homes. Noon Emmerdale. 12.30 Coronation Street. 1.00 Air Crash Investigation. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Million Dollar Minute. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Inspector Morse. 10.50 Late Programs.

6am TV Shop. 7.00 Creflo.

7.30 TV Shop. 9.30 Newstyle Direct. 10.00 Danoz. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon The Young And The Restless. 12.55 GB Sewing Bee. (Final) 2.15 Antiques Roadshow. 2.45 MOVIE: The Moonraker. (1958) 4.30 Tennis. United Cup. Day 5. Group stage. 7.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 10.40 Late Programs.

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Buy To Build. 9.00 iFish. 9.30 Reel Action. 10.00 All 4 Adventure. 11.00 The Offroad Adventure Show. Noon MacGyver. 1.00 Diagnosis Murder. 3.00 Bondi Rescue. 3.30 The Love Boat. 4.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 5.30 JAG. 6.30 Scorpion. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 10.20 In The Dark. 11.15 48 Hours. 12.15am Shopping. 2.15 Late Programs.

7TWO (62) 7TWO (62) VICELAND

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Wheelburn. 2.00 Motor Racing. ANDRA Drag Racing. Top Doorslammer. Replay. 3.00 Motor Racing. 2022 Austn Rally C’ship. Coffs Coast Rally. 4.00 Billy The Exterminator. 4.30 Hustle & Tow. 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 American Pickers. 8.30 MOVIE: Blood Father. (2016, MA15+) 10.20 The Cleveland Show. 10.50 Late Programs.

11.30 Morning News. 12.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 5. Group stage. 4.30 Afternoon News. 5.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (R) Hosted by Eddie McGuire. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) Highlights from the year in review. 10.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 6. Group stage. 4.30 Afternoon News. 5.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (R) Hosted by Eddie McGuire. 6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 7.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 8.00 Bold. (PG, R) 8.30 Studio 10. (PG) 11.00 Wildlife Rescue. (PGal, R) 12.00 Dr Phil. (PGalv, R) 1.00 Rhys Darby: Big In Japan. (PGa, R) 2.00 Ent. Tonight. 2.30 GCBC. (R) 3.00 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 3.30 My Market Kitchen. (R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News. 6.00 Morning Programs. 7.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 7.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 8.00 Bold. (PG, R) 8.30 Studio 10. (PG) 11.00 Wildlife Rescue. (PGa, R) 12.00 Dr Phil. (PGal, R) 1.00 Rhys Darby: Big In Japan. (PGa, R) 2.00 Ent. Tonight. 2.30 GCBC. (R) 3.00 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 3.30 My Market Kitchen. (R) 4.00 Farm To Fork. 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer. (PGa) 10.00 Legacy List. (PGav, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGas, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The World’s Greatest Palaces. (PGav, R) 2.55 Great Asian Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 2. H’lights.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 27. Melbourne Stars v Melbourne Renegades. From the MCG. 11.00 Death Row: Countdown To Execution. (MA15+av, R) Part 1 of 4. Susanna Reid travels to Huntsville, Texas, to interview death row inmate Patrick Murphy. 12.00 The Real Dirty Dancing. (PG, R) Celebrities recreate moments from Dirty Dancing

1.00 Home Shopping.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise. Takes a look at the latest news, sport and weather, with business and finance updates.

6.00 NBN News.

7.00 Tennis. United Cup. Day 6. Group stage. From Pat Rafter Arena, Brisbane, RAC Arena, Perth and Ken Rosewall Arena, Sydney.

12.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (Mv, R) Stabler and Bell team up to investigate a major lead. Wheatley makes moves to elevate his business.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 Hello SA. (PG, R) The team heads back to Fine Food Cucina.

5.00 News Early Edition.

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Spirit Talker. 2.00 Shortland St. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Bushwhacked! 3.25 Red Dirt Riders. 3.40 Wolf Joe. 3.55 Tales Of The Moana. 4.00 Thalu. 4.30 Spartakus And The Sun Beneath The Sea. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 Bamay. 6.50 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.40 Hip Hop Evolution. 8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.10 MOVIE: Gurrumul. (2017, MA15+) 11.05 Late Programs.

VICELAND

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Dave Gorman: Modern Life Is Goodish. 2.45 Unknown Amazon. 3.40 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’s Castle. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Billy Connolly: Great American Trail. 9.30 Forbidden History. 10.25 Why Does Everyone Hate The English? 11.20 Late Programs.

PG, Hindi) 8.00 Tenderness. (2013, 7MATE (64) 7MATE (64)

6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Our Town. 8.00 Harry’s Practice. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Emmerdale. 12.30 Coronation Street. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Million Dollar Minute. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.45 Miniseries: Manhunt. 10.45 Late Programs.

CONSUMER ADVICE (P) Pre-school (C) Children (PG) Parental Guidance Recommended (M) Mature Audiences (MA15+) Mature Audiences Only (AV15+) Extreme Adult Violence (R) Repeat 6am Sky News Breakfast. 7.00 Sky News Breakfast. 8.00 Sky News Breakfast. 9.00 First Edition. 10.00 NewsDay. 11.00 NewsDay. Noon NewsDay. 1.00 NewsDay. 2.00 Afternoon Agenda. 3.00 Afternoon Agenda. 4.00 Afternoon Agenda. 5.00 NewsNight. 6.00 Inside The News. 7.00 The Evening Update. 8.00 The State We’re In. 9.00 NewsNight. 10.00 NewsNight. 11.00 Late Programs.

9GO! (83) 9GO! (83) PG, French) 9.30 The Movie Show. 10.00 Canola. (2016, M, Korean) 12.10pm Still Here. (2020, M) 1.55 Polina. (2016, PG, French) 3.55 The Truth. (2019, PG, French) 5.55 Little Men. (2016, PG) 7.30 The Keeper. (2018, M) 9.40 Golden Voices. (2019, M, Hebrew) 11.15 Beatriz At Dinner. (2017, M) 12.45am Late Programs. 6am Little Men. (2016, PG) 7.35 Polina. (2016, PG, French) 9.35 Courted. (2015, PG, French) 11.25 The Spy. (2019, M, Swedish) 1.30pm Beatriz At Dinner. (2017, M) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.30 The Lunchbox. (2013, PG, Hindi) 5.30 Broken Hill. (2009, PG) 7.30 Captain Fantastic. (2016, M) 9.40 Tuesday Club. (2022, Swedish) 11.35 Family. (2018, M) 1.10am The Keeper. (2018, M) 3.20 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 11.00 American Restoration. 11.30 Pawn Stars. Noon American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars Sth Africa. 1.30 Pawn Stars UK. 2.00 Down East Dickering. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Scrap Kings. 4.30 Hustle & Tow. 5.30 American Restoration. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Truckers. 9.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 10.30 Train Truckers. 11.30 Late Programs.

6am TV Shop. 7.00 Creflo.

7.30 TV Shop. 9.30 Newstyle Direct. 10.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian.

Noon The Young And The Restless. 12.55 Explore. 1.00 Full Bloom. 2.00 Antiques Roadshow. 2.30

6am The Lunchbox. (2013, NITV (34) NITV (34)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown.

7.30 MOVIE: Indiana Jones And The Temple Of Doom. (1984, PGv, R) Archaeologist Indiana Jones searches for a mystical stone stolen from an Indian community. Harrison Ford, Kate Capshaw.

10.00 MOVIE: Transformers: Age Of Extinction. (2014, Mav, R) An inventor and his family are forced to go on the run after discovering a giant alien robot. Mark Wahlberg, Stanley Tucci.

1.15 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Buy To Build. 9.00 iFish. 9.30 Reel Action. 10.00 The Love Boat. 11.00 Star Trek: The Next Generation. Noon MacGyver. 2.00 Diagnosis Murder. 3.00 Bondi Rescue. 3.30 The Love Boat. 4.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 5.30 JAG. 6.30 Scorpion. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 My Life Is Murder. 9.25 Bull. 10.20 48 Hours. 12.15am Shopping. 2.15 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Characters Of Broome. 2.00 Shortland St. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 3.55 Tales Of The Moana. 4.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 Treaty. 6.40 Undiscovered Vistas. 7.30 Moko. 8.00 The Beach. 8.30 The Last Land: Gespe’gewa’gi. 9.00 Hunting Aotearoa. 9.30 Atlanta. 10.35 Late Programs.

ON THE Box NEWS OF THE AREA PORT STEPHENS Send Us Your Sports Results Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Monday evening for publication on a Friday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to media@newsofthearea.com.au. media@newsofthearea.com.au 18 PORT STEPHENS NEWS OF THE AREA Thursday, 29 December 2022

12.45 Silent Witness. (Mav, R) 2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.35 One Plus One. (R) 5.05 Think Tank. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer. (PGa) 10.00 Legacy List. (PGav, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGan, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The World’s Greatest Palaces. (PG, R) 2.55 Great Asian Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 3. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Britain’s Beautiful Rivers. (PGa, R) 8.30 Britain’s Secret Islands. (R) 9.25 Tokyo Vice. (MA15+) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Dignity. (Malv) 11.55 The Night Manager. (MA15+s, R) 12.45 Shadow Lines. (MA15+d, R) 3.25 The Late Session. (PG, R) 4.20 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm Dave Gorman: Modern Life Is Goodish. 2.55 Unknown Amazon. 3.50 Lee Lin Chin’s Fashionista. 4.00 WorldWatch. 5.25 Takeshi’s Castle. 5.55 Joy Of Painting. 6.25 Forged In Fire. 7.15 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: The Untouchables. (1987, MA15+) 10.40 MOVIE: What We Do In The Shadows. (2014, M) 12.15am Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. Third Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 1. Morning session. 12.30 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Third Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 1. Afternoon session. 3.10 Test Cricket: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. Third Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 1. Late afternoon session.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 28. Sydney Sixers v Brisbane Heat. From North Sydney Oval. 9.10 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 29. Perth Scorchers v Sydney Thunder. From Optus Stadium, Perth. 12.30 Home Shopping. 5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. Takes a look at the latest news, sport and weather, with business and finance updates.

6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Our Town. 8.00 Harry’s Practice. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Emmerdale. 12.30 Coronation Street. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Million Dollar Minute. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Lewis. 10.45 Late Programs.

5.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

6.00 Old People’s Home For 4 Year Olds. (R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 8.00 You Can’t Ask That. (Mals, R) 8.30 Grand Designs: House Of The Year. (R) 9.20 MOVIE: Palazzo Di Cozzo. (2021, PG, R) 10.20 Movin’ To The Country. (R) 10.50 Love On The Spectrum. (PG, R) 11.45 EXPOSED: The Case Of Keli Lane. (Mal, R) 12.50 Top Of The Lake: China Girl. (Mals, R) 2.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.30 One Plus One. (R) 5.00 Think Tank. (PG, R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Peer To Peer. (PGa) 10.00 Legacy List. (PG, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 The World’s Greatest Palaces. (PGa, R) 2.55 Great Asian Railway Journeys. (PGaw, R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 4. H’lights.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 8.30 Our Law. (Premiere) 9.40 War Of The Worlds. (MA15+av) 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 L’Opera. (Ml) 11.55 An Ordinary Woman. (Malv, R) 3.30 Filthy Rich And Homeless. (Madl, R) 4.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch. 9.30 Shortland St. 11.00 The Movie Show. Noon Dave Gorman: Modern Life Is Goodish. 12.55 After The Virus. 1.50 The Story Of A Thousand Miles. 2.20 The Story Of Who Let The Dogs Out. 2.50 Life After People. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.15 Takeshi’s Castle. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Forged In Fire. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Curse Of Oak Island Specials. 10.10 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.30 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. Third Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 2. Morning session. 12.30 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 1.10 Cricket. Third Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 2. Afternoon session. 3.10 Test Cricket: Tea Break. 3.30 Cricket. Third Test. Australia v South Africa. Day 2. Late afternoon session.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Game 30. Adelaide Strikers v Hobart Hurricanes. From Adelaide Oval. 11.00 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma, R) A desperate 999 call comes in from a woman who is seriously injured after being thrown out of a vehicle when it careered off the road and smashed into trees. 12.00 Fantasy Island. (Ma, R) A businesswoman’s fantasy of a perfect Christmas and meeting Mr Right tests Roarke in unexpected ways. 1.00 Home Shopping. 5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.

6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Million Dollar Minute. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Emmerdale. 12.30 Coronation Street. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Million Dollar Minute. 3.30 Medical Emergency. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Kavanagh QC. 10.15 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.15 Late Programs.

6am TV Shop: Home Shopping. 7.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. 7.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon The Young And The Restless. 12.55 Explore. 1.00 Full Bloom. 2.00 Antiques Roadshow. 2.30 MOVIE: Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None. (1974, PG) 4.30 Tennis. United Cup. Day 7. City finals. 1.30am Take Two. 2.30 TV Shop. 4.30 Joyce Meyer. 5.00 TV Shop.

6am Children’s Programs. 11.30 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 1. Day 4. Day session. 6pm Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 1. Day 4. Night session 11.00 To Be Advised. 1am Satisfaction. 2.00 Keeping Up With The Kardashians. 3.00 Bakugan: Evolutions. 3.30 Ninjago. 4.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 5.00 Pokémon Journeys. 5.30 Yu-GiOh! Sevens.

6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Escape To The Chateau. (Return) 8.30 Dream Listings Byron Bay. (PGl) 9.30 Secrets Of The Superyachts. (PG) 10.30 Family Law. (Ma) 11.20 The Thing About Pam. (Mas, R) 12.10 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.00 Our State On A Plate. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 News Early Edition. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Great Getaways. (PG)

Paramedics. (M, R)

Police After Dark. (Mlv)

Emergency Call. (Ma)

Pure Genius. (Mm)

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

Our State On A Plate. (PG, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Global Shop. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.30 MOVIE: Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade. (1989, PGv, R) Indiana Jones tries to find his missing father, who was on a lifelong quest to obtain the legendary Holy Grail. Harrison Ford, Sean Connery. 10.10 MOVIE: Angel Has Fallen. (2019, MA15+v, R) A secret service agent tries to save the president. Gerard Butler, Morgan Freeman.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.30 Home Shopping. 4.30 CBS Mornings.

6am TV Shop: Home Shopping. 7.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. 7.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 1. Day 5. Day session. 5pm Murder, She Wrote. 6.00 Antiques Roadshow. 7.00 Tennis. Adelaide International. Tournament 1. Day 5. Night session. 11.00 Snapped. Midnight House. 1.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 4.30 Joyce Meyer. 5.00 TV Shop.

Programs.

Brady Bunch Movie.

BOLD (51)

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Buy To Build. 9.00 iFish. 9.30 Reel Action. 10.00 The Love Boat. 11.00 Star Trek: The Next Generation. Noon MacGyver. 2.00 Diagnosis Murder. 3.00 Bondi Rescue. 3.30 The Love Boat. 4.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 5.30 JAG. 6.30 Scorpion. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.25 Hawaii Five-0. 11.15 In The Dark. 12.15am Shopping. 2.15 Late Programs.

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Emily hopes bringing a dog into their home will offer a calming influence to her son.

7.30 MOVIE: Indiana Jones And The Kingdom Of The Crystal Skull. (2008, Mv, R) Indiana Jones is reunited with a woman from his past when he searches for a mysterious crystal skull. Harrison Ford, Shia LaBeouf, Cate Blanchett.

10.05 MOVIE: The Bank Job. (2008, MA15+ls) A group of thieves plans a heist. Jason Statham, Saffron Burrows.

12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

BOLD (51)

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Buy To Build. 9.00 iFish. 9.30 Reel Action. 10.00 The Love Boat. 11.00 Star Trek: The Next Generation. Noon MacGyver. 2.00 Diagnosis Murder. 3.00 Bondi Rescue. 3.30 The Love Boat. 4.30 Star Trek: The Next Generation. 5.30 JAG. 6.30 Scorpion. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.30 NCIS: New Orleans. 10.30 SEAL Team. 11.30 Late Programs.

Bush Blues

STOCKTON and Northern Districts veteran Nick Foster will lead a strong Bush Blues team to the Toyota Australian Country Championships in the ACT from January 13 to 20.

The fourteen-player squad, to be coached by the experienced Anthony Kershler, will take on teams from Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, ACT, Queensland and East Asia Pacific.

The team includes six Bush Blues debutants and also seven players from the Newcastle zone.

Kershler said Foster was the perfect choice to lead the Bush Blues as the tournament returns for the first time in several seasons.

“We are really looking forward to having a full national championship after missing two years with COVID,” Kershler said.

“This is a very strong squad, based on two really good championship weekends with some really strong performances that saw plenty of guys score lots of runs and take big wickets to earn selection.

“Nick’s a great captain and leader and his ability to take the sting out of the game and remain calm is something this group will really benefit from.”