Port Stephens News Of The Area 29 September 2022

By Tara CAMPBELL

By Marian SAMPSON

front of Tomaree Lodge.

Photo: Tara Kirby-Campbell.

Tara CAMPBELL 0457 425 414 tara@newsofthearea.com.au

Marian SAMPSON 0414 521

marian@newsofthearea.com.au

Anna Bay man to face court

By Tara CAMPBELL

AN Anna Bay man has pleaded guilty to holding up two Subway stores and an attempted knifepoint robbery that turned into a dramatic citizen's arrest during a twoweek crime spree earlier this year.

He allegedly lifted up his shirt to reveal the large knife down his pants and threatened the employee before being handed an amount of cash and was last seen heading towards the Cameron Park industrial estate.

Jane CROCKER 0434 852 011

jane@newsofthearea.com.au

Alice HENNEN 0486 031 579 alice@newsofthearea.com.au

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

EDITOR

NEWS: media@newsofthearea.com.au

ADVERTISING: ads@newsofthearea.com.au

FLIPBOOK ONLINE: www.newsofthearea.com.au

SOCIAL: facebook.com/bayNOTA

POST: PO Box 1000, Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

CLASSIFIEDS

Email

a

ads@newsofthearea.com.au

Phone us : Mon, Tue

Wed

Phone line Open 10am -12noon (02) 4981 8882

www.newsofthearea.com.au

Bradley Stephen Close, aged 23, appeared in Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday via audio visual link from John Morony Correctional Centre where he pleaded guilty to two counts of armed robbery and a charge of assault with intent to rob while armed with an offensive weapon.

Detectives had been looking for Mr Close since 14 March after he walked into the Subway store in Cameron Park armed with a hunting knife about 7.35pm.

Lake Macquarie detectives launched an investigation and six days later Mr Close committed a similar robbery at a Subway store at Heatherbrae, this time while holding a knife sheath.

On 28 March, eight days after the Heatherbrae armed robbery, Mr Close was again armed with a knife when he attempted to rob a man, aged 39, while he was walking home along Gan Gan Road at Anna Bay about 10.40pm with his two teenage daughters, aged thirteen and fourteen.

Police allege that Close threatened the man with the knife before the pair struggled

Emergency Services update

By Tara CAMPBELL

RFS Scam

It has been brought to the attention of the Medowie Rural Fire Brigade that scammers are at it again.

A member of the community received a text message claiming they were from ‘Bush Fire Safe’ and would be deducting money from their account.

A representative from the Brigade says thankfully the receiver of the message recognised what it was and deleted the message straight away.

“It is a timely reminder that scammers will use anything to get money off people and coming into fire season, this seems to be the path they are taking.”

The Brigade says the Rural Fire Service (and other emergency services) may fundraise from time to time, but they do not call or text the community requesting money or deducting money from bank accounts.

Williamtown/Salt Ash Training

This Saturday’s training session for Williamtown/Salt Ash Fire Brigade involved members working on arrivals and setting up procedures when attending incidents.

Each crew member got the chance to perform different roles within the crew and work with new people in the Brigade.

AIDER Program

Did you know the NSW Rural Fire Service offers a one-off service to support some of our most at-risk community members in preparing their property?

The AIDER program is designed to assist elderly and disabled residents living in bush fire prone land in preparing their homes ahead of the fire season.

AIDER services can involve clearing the gutters, removing debris or thinning vegetation.

For more information or to register, visit the RFS website: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/planand-prepare/aider

Fire Season Begins

The Bush Fire Danger Period begins this weekend, running from 1 October to 31 March.

If you are planning to light a fire in the open during this time, you will need a Fire Permit.

Fire Permits help ensure fire is used safely

and the man managed to knock the blade out of Close's hands.

The man and his two daughters restrained Close, holding him down while contacting police, who arrived a few minutes later and arrested the 23-year-old.

Police say the man was taken to hospital with a hand injury, but the teenagers were not injured during the ordeal.

Mr Close was charged by Lake Macquarie Police with armed robbery.

He was also charged by Port Stephens Hunter Police over the two other armed robberies.

Close will next appear in Newcastle District Court next month to get a sentence date.

He faces a maximum of twenty years in jail on the armed robbery offences and a maximum of fourteen years in jail for the assault with intent to rob.

during the Bush Fire Danger Period by imposing conditions on the way a fire is lit and maintained, and can only be issued by authorised Permit Issuing Officers.

The permit system ensures agencies like the NSW RFS know when and where landholders intend to burn, to ensure adequate and appropriate measures are in place, and so that fires remain under control.

To obtain a permit, contact your local Brigade for more information.

Young Mallabula driver charged

By Tara CAMPBELL

A TWENTY-YEAR-OLD learner driver from Mallabula who led police on a twenty-minute car chase around the streets of Tanilba Bay has had his license disqualified for twelve months.

At approximately 5.30pm on 17 July at Salt Ash, the young man was driving a silver-coloured Hyundai i30 when police ran a license check and found he had been disqualified from driving for three months two days earlier.

Police began to pursue the man, who they thought was going to pull over, however he sped away instead.

He drove along Lemon Tree Passage Road at between 95 and 104 kilometres

per hour in a 90 zone, and along Peace Parade at Tanilba Bay at 95km in a 50km zone, sometimes swerving onto the other side of the road, before eventually pulling over in a car park and running into nearby bushland, police alleged in Raymond Terrace Local Court this week.

The young man was later arrested at a house where he told police he'd "panicked", because he thought if he got caught he would go to jail.

Magistrate Ian Cheetham told him that he'd hoped he'd learned a good lesson in life.

"If you find yourself in trouble the best thing to do is to put your hand up because if you run away things just get worse for you,” Magistrate Cheetham said.

The young man was convicted, disqualified from driving for twelve months and placed on a twelve-month community correction order.

q Members from the Williamtown/Salt Ash Brigade at their training session. Photo: Williamtown/Salt Ash Fire Brigade.

"Pathetic and heartless": Community members rally against NSW Government’s lack of support for temporary accommodation at Tomaree Lodge

FROM Page 1

Lodge that can provide a roof over the heads of those sleeping rough and I believe that there is nothing stopping us from sitting down with the Government to come up with reasonable solutions to Port Stephens homelessness crisis,” Melissa said.

In July this year, State MP Kate Washington, alongside the Shadow Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson, held a roundtable discussion

to tackle the growing issue of homelessness in Port Stephens.

One of the solutions put forward from the round table was the possibility of reopening Tomaree Lodge and the Stockton Centre as temporary accommodation to assist people who have found themselves without a roof over their head.

Ms Washington has since repeatedly written to the NSW Government and to the Minister for Families and Communities Natasha

Maclaren-Jones seeking a response to her request to reopen Tomaree Lodge and the Stockton Centre as temporary accommodation.

Her response from the Government was a rejection of the idea due to “issues with plumbing on site”.

This isn’t stopping Kate Washington, or other locals who are fighting for action on this important issue.

“It’s simple,” Melissa said.

“We’ve got to put enough pressure and highlight the issue as much as we

possibly can, so that the NSW Government takes us and our State Member seriously.”

Kate Washington addressed the rally, stating that Port Stephens has no shelters for women and children fleeing domestic violence, very little emergency housing and no public housing built in the region for over a decade.

“This rally once again demonstrates how much our community cares which is a stark contrast to the

government’s lack of heart and lack of conscience when they don’t even allow us access to this place (Tomaree Lodge) to provide shelter for those who have none right now,” Ms Washington said.

“Rent is going up and there is nowhere else where people can go and stay.

“All the while, we have properties here that we know are habitable; places that are sitting vacant that could provide safety and shelter to people who are facing homelessness right now."

Ms Washington said that the NSW Government’s excuses are “pathetic” and sites such as the Stockton Centre and Tomaree Lodge need to be considered for temporary emergency housing.

“Whilst these places stand

there vacant, they stand as an emblem of this government’s heartlessness and lack of conscience,” Ms Washington said.

Councillor Leah Anderson says all levels of government need to be working together to find solutions.

“I did bring a motion to Council to address this issue and Council staff are currently investigating what options we have in terms of emergency accommodation.”

Cr Anderson said she will continue to work with the Member for Port Stephens, Member for Paterson Meryl Swanson and all levels of government and anyone who is interested in contributing to help find a solution to this pressing issue.

9am - 12pm.

q Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington addressed the rally. Photo: Tara Kirby-Campbell.

q Community members are demanding the NSW Government to take action. Photo: Tara Kirby-Campbell.

q “Port Stephens Cares”, the community declared. Photo: Tara KirbyCampbell.

$5.7 Million Boost For Port Stephens Fisheries Institute

FROM Page 1

table locally and around the world.

Oyster growing is also a big part of the Port Stephens identity and our Sydney Rock Oysters are considered some of the best oysters in the world.

Now the industry will benefit from the production of more local seafood, thanks to a multi-million dollar upgrade to one of Australia’s largest

specialised fisheries and aquaculture research facilities.

Minister for Agriculture Dugald Saunders said the $5.7 million investment in the Port Stephens Fisheries Institute includes a new Marine Fish Hatchery and major upgrades to the Fisheries Nutrition research facility and Mollusc Hatchery, forming part of the NSW Government’s $100 million research infrastructure package to support our world-

class food and fibre industries.

“This investment in aquaculture research helps our industry put more NSW-grown seafood on Australian plates,” Mr Saunders said.

“Investing in research and the necessary infrastructure to undertake industry-specific research projects is one of the most effective ways to ensure our seafood producers have profitable and sustainable businesses.

“The Institute conducts marine and freshwater ecosystems research, aquaculture research, threatened species research, fisheries resource assessments and aquatic biosecurity and aquatic environment protection and management.

“Previously, fisheries and aquaculture research and development took place in ageing infrastructure, so this investment has been welcomed

by seafood producers locally and across NSW.”

Research at the improved facilities is anticipated to achieve doubling of numbers of marine finfish fingerling production capacity over the next five years; supporting the oyster industry with continued selective breeding, while assisting the emergence of new industries based on seaweeds and microalgae; attracting an additional three new research partnerships in the next three years; and, ensuring

the continuity of spat and fingerling supply for existing and developing aquaculture, and for marine fish stocking exercises, including Mulloway and Dusky Flathead.

Investments under this program will help deliver a new generation of scientific breakthroughs like droughttolerant crop varieties, datadriven on-farm decision making, fast-tracked genetic improvements in cattle and sheep and improved biological control of pests.

Locals say it’s time to remediate Corlette Beach

By Marian SAMPSON

WHILE the grant to assist Council in preparation of Coastal Management Plans has been welcomed by some, others are somewhat sceptical.

Many believe that it is time to stop writing plans and act - spending money where it is needed now rather than putting the funds into reports and plans.

Corlette Beach has long been the site of severe coastal erosion and some homeowners along the prime real estate of the foreshore have intervened with nature and created incursions into the foreshore.

There are now several deep holes that have appeared on the Council managed land adjacent to man made unapproved boat ramps and the like.

Sandy Point is stunningly beautiful and it was once just that, a Sandy Point, but no

more.

The location was once considered the ‘higher ground’ along the waterfront between Bagnalls Beach and Corlette Beach, and safer from erosion than other lower lying foreshore properties.

Now this higher ground is being eroded.

Margaret Wilkinson has long been advocating for the foreshore to be remediated.

She told News Of The Area, “I am absolutely delighted to hear of more funding coming our way.

“I and others have watched Conroy Park erosion since the Pasha Bulka weekend.

“Now Council may be able to fund more stages of the Sandy Point/Conroy Park Foreshore erosion and management plan which was approved way back in 2016, with little funding directed for implementation of the plan since then.

“We've had a plan for years, we should just get on with it now,” she said.

Medowie raises funds for Children’s Hospital

By Tara CAMPBELL

THE Medowie Community has been busy raising funds for John Hunter Hospital.

From 31 August to 20 September, 51 Coles stores across the Hunter New England district sold $2 donation cards to raise funds for the John Hunter Children’s Hospital in Newcastle and its regional paediatric services at Tamworth and Taree.

With eleven stores in the region, Coles Medowie came in third place, with $5,000 of donations.

A representative from the store thanked the community for their support.

“Thank you to the Medowie Community for their help and generosity.

“We thank everyone that donated, and in some cases every time they came into the store.

Coles’ customers for their donations.

“We appreciate your kindness and patience when the team may have asked you 100 times.”

The funds raised will

support the John Hunter Children’s Hospital Community Service, HNEKidsRehab, and be directly allocated to the local area in which they were raised.

HNEKidsRehab provides specialist paediatric rehabilitation care for children and young people living with a range of disabilities resulting from injury, illness or disease.

This includes acquired conditions such as acquired brain injury, spinal cord injury and disease, and congenital conditions, including cerebral palsy and spina bifida.

John Hunter Children’s Hospital Executive Director Dr Paul Craven thanked

Serving Port Stephens, Raymond Terrace and the Myall Region Serving Raymond Terrace and the Myall Region

“The money raised by Coles stores will go directly towards the paediatric departments in their local area,” he said.

“Our partnership with Coles has grown from strength to strength over the past two years and through the support of Coles’ customers and team members in the Hunter New England region, we’re able to help to change the lives of sick children.”

Dr Craven said as a result of the funds raised last year, the Hospital was able to purchase a brand-new Echo Machine, which allows paediatric cardiologists to offer diagnostics both antenatally and during childhood.

q Locals are calling on Council to remediate the foreshore. Photo: Marian Sampson.

q Medowie Coles is one of the smaller stores in the region, but the community’s efforts have shone through. Photo: supplied.

Richard Retires

By Geoff WALKER

AFTER 40 years of service with Port Stephens Coast Guard (now renamed Marine Rescue), Richard Osborne is weighing the anchor.

He has served in various roles, including two terms as Commander.

On top of this he put in 34 years as an unpaid volunteer with the bushfire movement.

For this they honoured him with Life Membership.

This extensive community service over such a long time saw him awarded an Order of Australia Medal.

Reflecting on his time with the service, he said that he had worked with a great bunch of like minded people who put the community needs before their own interests.

“Both my partner Di, who also clocked up 26 years service and I have developed long lasting friendships through our volunteer work,” he said.

“These days, with the electronic

Parklets Find New Home In Karuah

By Marian SAMPSON

THE parklets which caused such angst at Shoal Bay are being welcomed at Karuah.

The local community is repurposing the structures which, along with planters, are hoped will become a highlight of a renewed and vibrant town centre.

The project has been made possible through a small grant from Port Stephens Council.

Port Stephens Councillor Jason Wells told News Of The Area, "It's great to see the community work so well with Council staff to repurpose these resources to benefit the Karuah main street, the impact is set to be amazing.

"The project really helps to set the tone of Karuah as a vibrant and welcoming town.

"This is only the start of community-led projects in Karuah.

“I am a strong advocate for the current place making processes that were implemented in Karuah by Council and which have led to the Karuah Place Plan.

“It gives the community guidance and direction and it gives the council a clear picture of what the community needs and desires.

"The success of the Karuah Place Plan is reliant on an active and passionate community - and this great town has plenty of this!

"The hard work of the community should be applauded and I trust this passion for the community will flow through to future projects in the town."

In a true community effort, volunteers have helped to get things happening already and the parklets

will be refreshed in the colours selected for the future look and feel for Karuah.

The local team at NSW Rural Fire Service also got behind the effort to make the town shine by pressure cleaning the pavements.

The team at Albert Johnson Mining Timber Specialists are also working hard, and the Link and Lock timbers they create for the mining industry will be used as planter boxes.

Wild Weedz are currently storing the parklets and it is hoped that they will be refurbished and installed by mid-October in time for the Karuah Timber and Oyster Festival.

More volunteers are needed for painting and planting and to help show the pride that Karuah has in its town centre.

Surf Life Saving Patrols Return

By Marian SAMPSON

SUMMERTIME is swimming time and in Australia that means it is time for the volunteer Surf Life Savers to patrol our beaches.

The red and yellow is back on NSW beaches with more than 20,000 surf life saving volunteers ready to welcome beachgoers as the official patrol season begins.

Premier Dominic Perrottet joined Minister for Emergency Services and Resilience Steph Cooke, Surf Life Saving NSW (SLSNSW) President George Shales and volunteer lifesavers at Bondi Beach last week to raise the red and yellow flags for the first time this season.

“The raising of the flags is a significant occasion for the people of NSW because it means we can get back out after a cold winter and safely enjoy all the beautiful coastline our great State has to offer,” Mr Perrottet said.

age upon us, things are much more complex and the equipment more demanding and expensive.

“The training has to be more thorough but the advent of GPS and even the humble mobile phone have made communications far easier and streamlined,“ he added.

Richard and Di plan to travel and in their extra spare time they will become more involved in the local and district radio club for which Richard has developed an enduring passion.

A formal farewell at a date to be fixed is currently being organised by Marine Rescue.

“Please listen to the advice of our Surf Life Saving experts, don’t take unnecessary risks and always swim between the red and yellow flags to make sure you and your family enjoy the water safely.”

Ms Cooke said $1 million worth of SLSNSW jet skis and support operations vehicles will be rolled out across the State to better support the work of volunteers.

“The addition of eleven jet skis and eleven fully kitted out support vehicles will further enhance the ability of our lifesavers to respond to emergencies in the water and help people when they get into trouble,” Ms Cooke said.

“Our lifesavers from the 129 clubs up and down the NSW coastline are looking forward to being on patrol every weekend and public holiday between now and

Anzac Day in April.”

Mr Shales said despite a third consecutive La Nina being declared, large crowds are expected at beaches throughout spring and summer.

“We had a very wet year last season but beachgoers need to remain vigilant after a record 55 lives were lost in the 12 months to June 2022,” Mr Shales said.

“We’re ready to help if you get into trouble but we need to work together to keep our beaches and coastal waterways safe for all to enjoy.”

Patrolled beach locations, patrol times and live weather updates are available on the BeachSafe app or the beachsafe.org.au website.

There are patrolled beaches from Stockon through Salt Ash, Birubi Point, One Mile Beach, Fingal Bay and at Bennetts Beach in Hawks Nest.

Four new F-35A Lightning II Aircraft for No

81 Wing

A FURTHER four F-35A Lightning II aircraft touched down at RAAF Base Williamtown between 30 August and 2 September 2022.

It brings the total of F-35As based in Australia to 54 of the total planned fleet of 72 aircraft.

The newest aircraft to join the fleet have been accepted by No 77 Squadron, on behalf of No 81 Wing in Air Combat Group.

Commanding Officer No 77 Squadron, Wing Commander Tim Ireland, said it was another important step forward in the stand-up of Australia’s F-35A combat capability.

“These new jets represent a ten

percent increase in training and combat capacity for our growing F 35A fighting Wing,” Wing Commander Ireland said.

The latest aircraft were ferried across the Pacific Ocean as part of Exercise Lightning Ferry 22-3, the third delivery task of this year.

The four F-35As made the journey from Luke Air Force Base in Arizona, United States, with a trans-Pacific stops made at Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii, and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam.

They were supported by Air Mobility Group elements, including a KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport from No 33 Squadron and a C-17A Globemaster from No 36 Squadron.

Wing Commander Ireland said the success of Exercise Lightning

Ferry 22-3 was the result of detailed planning and coordination across Air Force.

“All ferries are complex events requiring synchronisation and flexibility from across Air Combat Group, Air Mobility Group, Air Combat Systems Program Office, Aerospace Combat Systems Branch and the Air Operations Centre,” Wing Commander Ireland said.

“These four aircraft represent a quarter of a fighter squadron in capability. Australia now has threequarters of its F-35As at home,” Wing Commander Ireland said.

“No 77 Squadron celebrated 80 years of service this year.

“We all feel very honoured to be advancing our F 35A capability rapidly forward.”

q Mayor Ryan Palmer toasting the parklets at their launch in Shoal Bay. Photo: Marian Sampson.

q Volunteers getting ready for a day of Surf Life Saving. Photo: Marian Sampson.

q Australia's newest F-35A Lightning II aircraft A35-053 and A35054 arrive at RAAF Base Williamtown in New South Wales, at the end of their journey during exercise Lightning Ferry 22-3.

q Richard on his last shift at Marine Rescue.

Return and Earn for Koalas

By Tara CAMPBELL

PORT Stephens Koala Hospital has raised $6,000 through community donations in the Return and Earn program.

The charity is a local donation partner of the NSW container deposit scheme, and currently features on two reverse vending machines in the local area meaning that customers can return their empty bottles, cans and cartons, and can directly donate their 10c refunds.

To raise $6,000, residents returned 60,000 cans and bottles

which go towards veterinary medications and tests for the koalas, as well as intensive care and rehabilitation facilities where needed.

Donations also help fund education campaigns, support scientific research, in addition to buying and planting koala food tree plantations.

As the Guest Services Team Leader at the Sanctuary and a parttime University Student, Tracy Doyle said she doesn’t have a lot of spare time to volunteer at the Koala Hospital.

Single Use Plastics Killing Marine Life

By Marian SAMPSON

NSW is getting ready to stop the use of single use plastics.

To drive home the message on why it is so important to ‘Stop It and Swap It', a new campaign will highlight the impact of single use plastics on marine life.

Shocking images of plastic pollution in the ocean and a turtle choking on a plastic bag feature in a thought-provoking new advertising campaign released ahead of the NSW Government’s November single-use plastic ban.

Minister for Environment James Griffin said the confronting images are an important reminder about why the state is banning certain single-use plastics.

“Our new Stop it and Swap it campaign is a stark reminder about why the NSW single-use plastic bans are critical for our environment – as consumers we must all change our behaviour,” Mr Griffin said.

“About 95 percent of the litter on beaches and waterways comes from suburban streets, and the vast majority of that litter is single-use plastic.

“The amount of plastic in our oceans is predicted to outweigh the amount of fish by 2050.

“That is a horrifying prediction and a call to action to ensure our wildlife, like the turtle featured in the campaign, can have a brighter future.

“The NSW plastic bans are just the beginning of our massive shift away from single-use plastic, and they’ll prevent 2.7 billion items of plastic litter from entering the environment

TACE Calls it a Day

By Geoff WALKER

AFTER serving the citizens of Tilligerry in one form or another for around forty years, Tilligerry Adult and Community Education (TACE) has called it a day.

It all began in 1983 when the Lemon Tree Passage School moved to its current site at Tanilba Bay.

This left the main administrative block, three classrooms and a shelter shed unoccupied.

Various groups took up residence in the old wooden buildings and these included a library, baby health centre and seniors' workshop.

The ownership was transferred from the Education Department to Port Stephens Council with strict conditions regarding the land use.

“By collecting the cans and bottles from the café and guests who visit the Sanctuary, and recycling through the Return and Earn program, is my way of giving back to the Koala Hospital in my spare time,” Ms Doyle said.

“The ‘Return and Earn’ scheme is not only a great way to donate to the Port Stephens Koala Hospital, whilst ensuring these items don’t go to landfill.

To register, download the Return and Earn app, select Port Stephens Koala Hospital as your preferred payout, then scan the barcode when recycling at any machine in NSW.

over the next 20 years.”

Plastic packaging and single-use plastic items make up around 60 percent of all litter in NSW, which is why the NSW Government is banning more single-use items from November.

Lightweight single-use plastic bags were banned from 1 June, and from 1 November, the NSW Government is banning single-use items including: plastic straws, stirrers, cutlery, plates, bowls and cotton buds, food ware and cups made from expanded polystyrene, and rinse-off personal care products containing plastic microbeads.

Taronga Wildlife Hospital Rescue and Rehabilitation Coordinator Libby Hall said they treat an array of wildlife cases each year, and sadly, many of these arrive at Taronga suffering the impacts of having ingested plastic.

“Just recently, we admitted a Green Turtle hatchling that was only a few weeks old and excreted plastics for several days after it arrived,” Ms Hall said.

“While thankfully this little hatchling is still with us, sadly many

have not been so lucky and it’s a sobering reminder of how our actions can have devastating impacts on endangered wildlife.

“Nearly every marine turtle we’ve had in has been impacted by plastic in some way – either through ingestion or entanglement.

“Many of these animals come in deceased, and there are only a few that survive.

“So if you have the choice not to use plastic, please don’t use it.”

The easy-to-understand messaging of the Stop it and Swap It campaign aims to raise awareness about the single-use plastic bans and will be translated into multiple languages to reach diverse communities across the

An expanded function of the now officially named TACE came when they set up an office in the old Plaza at Tanilba Bay.

This provided an ideal place to offer computer access and lessons in their use for the general public as this new technology started to take over our everyday lives.

Financial support for TACE came from the NSW State Government, Council, Club Lemon Tree, Tilligerry RSL, Tomago Aluminium, Tilligerry Lions and others.

The closure of Tilligerry Plaza saw a final move to the Lemon Tree Passage Library which itself had relocated to the old RSL hall on the main road.

Co-ordinators of TACE over the years included Robyn Jeffery, Leanne Sullivan, Angella Follick, Mary Kay and

The speeches are judged and the Stage 2 and 3 winners receive their own trophy to keep.

Local students take on Lions public speaking contest

q Neil Goldthorpe presenting the trophy to Stage 2 winner Fergus Green.

By Marian SAMPSON

MEMBERS of the Lions Club Of Raymond Terrace are passionate about opportunities for local youth.

As a part of fostering opportunities the Lions started a Public Speaking event for local schools in 2014.

The schools involved are Raymond Terrace Public School, Irrawang Public School, Grahamstown Public School and St Brigid’s Primary School with recent addition Mt Kanwary School participating.

The event is split into two categories with Stage 2 for 9-10 year olds and Stage 3, for 11–12 year olds.

Each year two students from each

school are invited to participate in the event.

Lion Neil Goldthorpe told News Of The Area, “Our Lions Junior Public Speaking was a great success with five Stage 2 speakers and seven Stage 3 speakers from three local public schools in Raymond Terrace.”

The two winners were Fergus Green, who is in Stage 2 of Irrawang Public School, and Alana Naicker, who is in Stage 3 at Grahamstown Public School.

“In 2019, after our sixth annual event, we had to delay it due to Covid, but in 2022, our seventh event returned with strong interest from teachers and parents.”

“Apart from one long term judge we have a variety of adult judges,” said Neil.

Last week the trophies were

state.

As a destination where turtles can be seen in the port it is vitally important that Port Stephens is clean and green and that everyone of us focuses on ensuring plastic doesn’t end up in our waterways.

Earlier this year Sea Shelter released a Green Sea Turtle at Fly Point that had been entangled in a fishing line and subsequently lost one flipper.

Sea Shelter is located at Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters and the charity led by a Marine Biologist works with the team at Taronga Zoo and the Port Stephens Koala Hospital to assist and care for injured and sick turtles in our region.

Sue Hamilton. They were backed up by other community volunteers.

Administrative issues, funding and a lesser need for people to become computer literate saw the decision made to cease operation in its present form.

In future, the individual groups which formerly operated under the umbrella of TACE will now be responsible for their own operation and accountable to Port Stephens Council.

TACE is currently writing up a detailed history of its community function over such a long time and will lodge the document with the Port Stephens Family History Society.

This will be freely available to members of the general public who seek a greater insight.

presented to the students by Neil Goldthorpe and long term judge Marcia Smith.

The Lions wish to congratulate all the students who participated and look forward to delivering the event again next year.

q Tracy Doyle from the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.

q Lions Club representatives Lynley Keers and Heather Hargreaves handing over a donation to co-ordinators Mary Kay and Sue Hamilton outside the Plaza office in the 1980s. Volunteer Carole Walker looks on.

q Neil Goldthorpe presenting the trophy to Stage 3 winner Alana Naicker.

Dorin’s Draws

Dear Jasminda,

It is so hard to get into a local GP, that by the time my appointment has come around, my symptoms have changed or gone altogether.

What's the answer?

Dear Gina,

Storm drama in Singles

Final

By Peter SMITH

THE Men's Major Singles Final was played at Soldiers Point Bowling Club last Saturday.

Commencing in sunny conditions on a medium paced green, Matt Johnston and Paul Russel entertained spectators with a fine exhibition of lawn bowls.

Scores were very close

when lightening scattered spectators and delayed play at about the halfway mark.

On resumption, on a slower green, Matt went to a 18 shots to 11 lead to be within sight of victory.

However, Paul had other ideas and, playing sublime bowls, went to a one shot lead all broadcast live on Facebook. The game's climax came when, down 24 shots to 23, Matt

needed to move the Jack to win.

His bowl missed by millimetres, so Paul won 25 to 23.

So, congratulations go to Paul Russel as the new Club champion.

New bowlers are welcome at the club when free lessons are available.

Please contact Mark Watt, Bowls Director on 49827173.

Anderson (21) +1.

You can also try out a telehealth appointment. I used this service when my son and I had Covid, since if you have a runny nose, a cough, a sore throat or myriad other symptoms these days, you may as well have the plague.

Only well people can sit in GP waiting rooms (remember the good old days when waiting rooms were full of coughing people and the kiddies were left to play with a sad lot of mucuscovered toys while the adults flicked through germy magazines).

With online doctor services, you enter a virtual waiting room and then have a phone or Zoom conversation with a GP.

Ms Gina R.

In regional communities it can be very challenging to get appointments, and some doctors close their books to new patients, making the pool of available doctors even smaller.

On the positive side, if your symptoms have cleared up by the time you get an appointment, it sounds as though you don't have anything too troublesome going on.

You can always refer to the symptom you had when you made the appointment, and your GP can no doubt diagnose based on that.

You can even send photos of the symptoms and get a script emailed to you. Worth keeping in mind.

Of course, for very serious symptoms, don't hesitate to attend your local hospital.

Again, the waiting times can be challenging, but at least you're in the right place if things go really pear shaped (metaphorically speaking -- if things are really going pear shaped, you probably just need to eat less and move more).

(29) 36c/b.

+4, Jenny Frost (9) +2; Susie

B Grade: Mary Conway (27) +5 c/b; Arja Levonpera (24) +5; Elizabeth Pfenningwerth (29) +3 c/b.

C Grade: Ruth Buchanan (42) +4 c/b; Robyn Hemburg (35) +4; Anne Morley (35) +1.

Wednesday 21 September

Men’s Stableford: Gymea Lily: A Grade: Ben Dunn (13) 43; Jim Ball (14) 39, Pk Kennedy (14) 36.

B Grade: Bruce Scott (23) 48c/b, Greg Durie (21) 38, Leigh Wakeling (22) 37c/b.

C Grade: John Geoghegan (33) 41,

(17)

C Grade: Kent Williams (28) 38, Les Williams (27) 37.

Men’s Stableford Four Ball

C1:

Hamshaw (19)

Christopher Dunn (28)

Walker (24)

Stableford:

Courses:

Grade: Stephen Spillane (14) 40, Ivan Skoda (15) 38.

Gymea Course: Overall Winners: Allan Daubaras and Ross Skinner 45c/b, Roger Gander and John Geoghegan 45.

Men’s Stableford Fourball

C2: Christmas Course: Overall winners: Kent Williams and Glen Arndell 47, Neil Russell and Darren Hancock 46c/b.

B Grade: Mark Twomey (19) 43, Darren Hancock (18) 40.

with Jasminda Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au

READING by Lynne Miles: Psalm 111: 10 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow His laws have good understanding."

q Matt delivers as the storm approaches.

Carpe diem, Jasminda

THE RIGHT TABLE SHOW TIDAL VARIATIONS AT SEVERAL LOCATIONS

The time variation should be added to the corresponding Fort Denison time.

In view of the variations caused by local conditions and meteorological effects, these times are approximate and must be considered as a guide only.

They are not to be relied on for critical depth calculations for safe navigation. Actual times of High and Low Water may occur before or after the times indicated.

SUDOKU

Sudoku is an 81 square number grid with nine blocks each containing nine cells. To solve the puzzle, all the blank cells must be filled in using numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and in the nine 3x3 blocks.

Created:DavidStickley

CreatorCopyNo.3164

Qxpress:Carole Checked:Barbara

Junior Puzzler

In Memory

For Sweet & Lovely Julie

You have passed 2 years, but remain in my heart and memory. Love as always, Robert

Funeral Notice

COOPER

BERT

Aged 86 Years

of Hawks Nest formerly of Botany Much loved husband of Pat, father of Steven and Sue, father in law of Charlotte and Millie.

Adored Pop of Matthew, Genevieve and Megan.

Loved brother of Lindsay, Joan, Joy and Peter, brother in law and uncle of Margaret, Bart, Kay and Phil, Coralie and families.

Loving son of George and Melva and son in law of Perc and Eve.

Family and friends are warmly invited to a Celebration of Bert’s life at Hawks Nest Golf Club on FRIDAY 7th October, 2022 at 12pm.

Karuah Motor Yacht

Facebook

Sale

BOOKS large hard covers with dust covers Explore Aust 10 year edition 1992 and Explore Aust 2006. Recipe books Boating manual, World Atlas and Gardening + more. $3 and $5 each Ph: 4981 7523 f290922

BOUGHT and made in the UK, Burberry, water proof, man’s coat, suit 90cm chest. $99. Call 0419 932 992.

Tea Gardens Car Rentals

Positions Vacant

Taxi

check,driving record Please call Brendan 0415 478 827

Work Wanted

2 x 255/60 x 17

Bridgestone Dueller HP tyres $100 ea ono 0404 094 028

25

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

4 x 17”x 6” Steel rims, fitted with 255/65x17 Dunlop AT23 tyres. Suit current Nissan Navara $130ea ono. Ph 0404 094 028

BRAND new, unused porcelain toilet bowl and seat. $95. Nerong 0419932992. F130521

COFFEE table rosewood Queen Anne style excellent condition Make an Offer Ph: 0457 087 178

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

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

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

For SaleFor Sale

GAS heater Rinnai. Exc cond. $100. 0422641710

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

HALL glass table wrought iron legs, 3ft long, 16 inch wide $15. 4982 2335 F260522

HIGH vis brand new work vest. Fluro green with silver bands. Zippered front XL good brand $15 Ph: 4981 7523

PORTABLE clothesline GC, $25. 0413 023 296

ROUND wooden dining table 90 cm with unfolding centre extension, and 4 chairs very good condition $75 Ph: 0476 241 165

ROUND blue pool cover above ground 10ft (300cm) round. Excellent cond. $10. 4981 7523 F070722

SKI boots. Suit male size 7 foot. $99. Tecnica brand. Only one season’s use. Phone Tea Gardens 0419 932 992

SNOOPY collector

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

WESTINGHOUSE twin door fridge/freezer, 606L. Exc cond, as new. $550 0412

WOK new arcosteel non stick with glass lid $30 Ph: 0457 087 178

WOMENS Levi jeans new with tag size 8/10 $50. Medium ladies coats new with tag worth $119 sell for $50 Ph: 0457 087 178 F280422

WORK bench 136cm L $100 Ph: 4938 5923 F050522

LAMP shades x 2 with paintings $100. 1 new Homer Simpson modern art in frame. $100 Ph: 0457 087 178 F170322

LEATHER jacket new ladies worth $400 will sell $100 Ph: 0457 087 178

LOUNGE suite fabric 3 seater lounge plus 2x manual recliners, beige colour with wooden arms Very good cond. $200 Ph: 0410 275 495 Pick up Fern Bay

3 sets - The many lives of Snoopy. $25 each. Also connectors Ph: 4997 9660 f290922

SNOW boarder helmet size 6 and 7/8 inches $80. Call 0419 932 992 F270122

SNOW skis and stocks

Only one season’s use Suit 65 kg person, 1.6 m tall skier. GS team Head brand. Length 1.6m radius 17.5, Tyrolia foot setting fasteners. $99 Phone Tea Gardens 0419 932 992

SUNBEAM food saver VAC420 with bags, half price $55. 49826443 F060521

McMAHON

Robert Baird

Aged 77 years

Late of Tea Gardens Formerly of Penrith Born in Scotland

Dearly loved husband of Myra. Loving father of Alan (dec) and Carol. Much loved Pa of Joel, Cassie, Jack and Rosey.

Family and friends are warmly invitied to attend the celebration of ROBERT’s life to be held in the North Chapel, Newcastle Memorial Park, Anderson Drive, Beresfield next THURSDAY 6th October 2022 commencing at 12pm.

For those who are unable to attend personally, the service will be live streamed. Please contact David Lloyd Funerals for details.

BERESFIELD 02 4966

Wanted to Buy

Antique China & Silver Fountain Pens, Jewellery Old Watches, Collectables.

Please phone: Annie 0419 219 634 Ron 0408 967 747

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

ELECTRIC Heaters

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

FRIDGE

Terrace.

Items

JIM BEAM logo brand new short sleeved collared mens shirt XL Jim Beam metal sign 30cm x 15cm. $15 each Ph: 4981 7523

BLOWER Ozito Elec Good cond. $30 ono 0422 641 710

BONANZA

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

GOOD

MOBILITY 4 wheel scooter 2019 model as new cond. Front basket and rear bag. Can bring to you for inspection $2200. 0418 430 643

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

SWEDISH road skis stocks and boots , size 7 as used in the offseason by professional, cross country skiers. SwedSki brand. $99. Phone Tea Gardens 0419 932 992

NINJA “Master Prep” Professional Triple Play food processor as new, used maybe 15 times. complete with Mas ter Pod, all blade sets, splash guard, bowl, and pitchers. It’s very quick and easy to use. $40 Call Michael 4997 2735

PARRAMATTA

TIMBER entertainment unit Storage space for DVD CD 3 x shelving glass door. Cupboard space H: 700mm L: 1360mm D: 550mm $250 ph: 0409 812 884e201022

Caravans

2017 Jayco Starcraft, ex cond, reg until May 2023 many features. Ph 0402 148 381.

CUB camper 2013 $12,000 ono 0407 093 997

Boats

26ft 2003 model Caribbean cabin cruiser. Lockup cabin 2 x 4.3litre Mercruisers

Both engines have recently been replaced with the later models + new port leg. New flushing toilet with holding tank. New fresh water pump -marine radioblack water pump

Antifouled August 22 Bathroom shower -toiletbasin. Single burner gas stove + sink. Large fridge under seat.All work completed by shipwrights & marine mechanics $65,000 call owner after 4pm mob 0412 657 895

ATTN: Boat-carscaravans! Cut and polish, all paint work, Mag wheels and headlights polished or repaint, small sandblast and repaint parts. For Quote: 0484 137 580

TIMBER 14ft putt putt boat. 1934 provenance Chapman Pup 3HP motor. Quality reg trailer $7,500 ono. 0402 054 207 leave msg. Re241122

Of The

your local customers.

with them from next edition.

Print media has never been as affordable for your business.

Call (02) 4981 8882 or email

Well done Chris!

By Tara CAMPBELL

MYALL Masters swimmer Chris Lock has been recognised in the NSW Parliament.

Chris is 80 years young and a dedicated community member, volunteering in several community groups and organisations, but is best known for his swimming successes.

Recently Chris represented the

Myall Masters Swimming Club at the Masters Swimming Australia National Championship where he walked away with five gold medals and four silver medals, breaking two State records.

Chris broke the record for the 25 metres backstroke and his own State record for the 100 metres backstroke, taking two seconds off his own time.

Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington recently recognised Chris’ success in the NSW

Parliament where she provided a Community Recognition Statement to the House, allowing her to speak for a minute about the good work being undertaken by local residents and organisations.

“Where others may see retirement as a time to relax and take on a slower-paced lifestyle, Chris Lock from my electorate of Port Stephens saw it as a challenge,” Ms Washington said.

“Chris recently represented his Myall Club at the National

Championships, and he came away with an impressive haul of medals.”

Ms Washington said she was so impressed by Chris’ recent medal haul that she had to share his successes with the House.

“I congratulate Chris who is an inspiring and young-at-heart man,” Ms Washington said.

Tanilba Bay Tennis Stars

FORESHORE tennis had a successful day hosting the Todd Woodbridge Cup on 16 September at the Tilligerry Tennis Club.

This prestigious primary school tennis event was, for the very first time, played today here in Port Stephens.

It is junior tennis at a grass roots level and students from Years Three and Four contest the event using modified equipment and play a mixed doubles format.

Tanilba Bay hosted two teams in the event with Team A coming away

with the narrow win (After three rounds 80 points to 67 over runners up (Team B ) close second with 67 points).

The kids had a ball.

There were lots of prize giveaways throughout the day from Tennis NSW and generous local businesses donating major prize vouchers.

A lot of kids playing on the day were trying their hand at tennis for the very first time which was great to see.

Tanilba Bay Public School

(Winners on Zone Day) students will go off to contest regional playoffs with the top two schools heading to Sydney Olympic Park on November 14 2022 Boys: Kye Spence Nixon Cross Finn Duckett Leo Kirby Girls: Mila McIntosh Latia Harvey Harmony Antoine Aysha Wilson

Ambrose.

Local Community News ~ Proudly Independent

q Chris representing the Myall Masters at the Masters Swimming Australia National Championship.

q Chris Lock with his medals at the National Championships, which earned him recognition in the NSW Parliament.