resident Lorraine Hanlon celebrated her 100th birthday on 9 November with friends and family.
The incredible milestone reflects a life filled with love, joy and remarkable resilience.
Born in Warwick, Queensland, in 1924, Lorraine grew up in Brisbane and Nambour as one of six siblings.
She left school at just fourteen to begin her life’s journey.
In 1945, Lorraine welcomed her first child with her husband Francis, before moving from Mackay to Melbourne where they added three more sons and a daughter.
Lorraine worked tirelessly, balancing family responsibilities along with a 20-year career at Vulcan Industries.
Despite personal hardships, including the loss of her eldest son in 1968 and her husband’s passing in 1970, Lorraine's strength and determination never wavered. In 1987, Lorraine
CONTINUED Page 3
AND STRONG
q Lorraine Hanlon cuts her birthday cake.
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION UPDATE
APPLICATIONS LODGED FROM 17/11/2024 AND 24/11/2024
Information is correct at time of printing. For up-to-date information visit Council’s DA Tracker at datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au or contact us on 4988 0255.
ADDRESS DA NO. PROPOSAL
ANNA BAY
23 Port Stephens Dr 16-2023-178-2 S4.55 1(A) modification to approved caravan parkamend conditions BOBS FARM
16 Trotter Rd 16-2007-15-10 S4.55 1(A) Modification to approved Caravan ParkModify or delete Condition 91, 97 and 98 BUTTERWICK
15 Green Wattle Creek Rd 16-2024-569-1 Single storey dwellingSITE 24 CORLETTE
S4.55 1(A) to Residential Dwelling, Demolition of Shed and Associated Works - alterations and additions FULLERTON COVE
6 The Cove Dr 16-2003-210516 S4.55 1(A) 169 Unit Seniors Housing - modify condition 95 HEATHERBRAE
2209 Pacific Hwy 16-2024-613-1 Earthworks - ancillary to existing rural and residential use HINTON
10 Old Punt Rd 16-2024-600-1 Alteration and addition to dwelling KARUAH
3 Tall Trees Rd 16-2024-610-1 Dual occupancy (attached) and one into two lot strata subdivision MEDOWIE
5B Waropara Rd 16-2024-597-1 Modify Building Envelope
2 Federation Dr 16-2024-593-1 Single storey dwelling and swimming pool
4 Sweet Nectar Cl 16-2024-606-1 Construction of an attached dual occupancy and strata subdivision
5C Waropara Rd 16-2024-612-1 Single storey dwelling
5B Ferodale Rd 16-2024-596-1 Modify Building Envelope NELSON BAY
19 Gymea Way 16-2021-760-2
S4.55 1(A) modification to two storey dwelling and retaining wallsmodification to floor height
VOLUNTEERS WANTED
BECOME A KOALA SANCTUARY AMBASSADOR
We’re looking for volunteer Koala Sanctuary Ambassadors to help make our guest experience even more memorable by providing a warm welcome, delivering our Koala Experience tours and lending a helping hand to our guests. Our volunteers will gain new skills, knowledge and experience as well as a sense of satisfaction from doing something for their community and the future of our Koala population.
Applications close 11:59pm Sunday 8 December 2024. For more information visit: portstephens. nsw.gov.au/koalasanctuary
SLOW STITCH WORKSHOP
2 HOURS FOR BEGINNERS
In this small-group workshop, learn simple stitching techniques, and become familiar with the needle, thread and fabrics. Tomaree Library on 7 December from 10am to 12pm. Bookings are essential. Please contact us to secure your place. Tomaree Library 4988 0670.
ADDRESS DA NO. PROPOSAL
NELSON BAY
111E Wallawa Rd 16-2023-514-4
S4.55 (1) modification to two storey dwellingremoval of condition 24
8/102 Magnus St 16-2024-522-1 Change of use from a commercial premises to a restricted premise (tobacconist and gift shop)
3 Parkes Street 16-2024-594-1 Single storey dwelling
NELSONS PLAINS
186 Seaham Rd 16-2020-757-3
S4.55(1A) Modification to Construction of dwelling, earth mound and shed, and demolition of existing dairy, shed and dwellingrelocation of flood refuge
OYSTER COVE
20 Frederick Dr 16-2024-351-2 S4.11 (1) modification to single storey dwelling
RAYMOND TERRACE
11 Kanwary Cl 16-2024-577-1 Alterations and additions to dwelling and new carport
SALAMANDER BAY
140 Soldiers Point Rd 16-2024-609-1
Demolition of existing structures, construction of Dual Occupancy (attached), pool and one into 2 torrens title subdivision
Multi-dwelling housing (32 new townhouses), alterations and additions to existing cabins, change of use of existing tourist accommodation to dwellings, community title subdivision, and construction of civil and landscaping works.
1 Recluse Pl 16-2024-604-1 Swimming Pool SHOAL BAY
39 Shoal Bay Rd; 1/1 Tomaree Rd 16-2024-602-1
Alterations and additions to existing commercial premises - demolish existing courtyard roof and construction of new adjustable fabric roof
PORT STEPHENS COUNCIL
2023 TO 2024 ANNUAL REPORT LOOKING AHEAD
Our 2023 to 2024 Annual Report is all about ‘Looking Ahead’, with a focus on community priorities, investing in infrastructure, and protecting our environment. It outlines our highlights, challenges, and performance between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024, and what’s next in implementing our delivery Program.
To read the report and supporting documents visit: portstephens.nsw.gov.au/annual-report
ROAD CLOSURE
CAROLS AT THE BAY
Council advises the temporary closure of Victoria Parade, Nelson Bay, from Fly Point to Dixon Drive (one-way section only) for Carols at the Bay 2024 to be staged at Fly Point on Sunday 8 December, 2024. This section of Victoria Parade will be closed to traffic between 5:30pm and 9:30pm
Further enquiries may be made by contacting the event organiser on 0413 177 257 or Council’s Engineering Services Section on 4988 0255.
NOTICE OF NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT
Council has received the following Development Applications (DA):
DA NO: 16-2024-587 1
DEVELOPMENT SITE: LOT: 781 DP: 802108, LOT: 782 DP: 802108 38 Stockton Street NELSON BAY, 8A Tomaree Street NELSON BAY
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: Residential Flat Building (50 Units), two commercial premises, associated parking and landscaping, and strata subdivision
APPLICANT: PERCEPTION PLANNING PTY LTD
CONSENT AUTHORITY: Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel
NOMINATED INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT APPROVAL: TYPE OF APPROVAL: Section 90 Water management work approval
APPROVAL AGENCY: Water NSW
ASSESSING OFFICER: Courtney Sargent – phone 4988 0263 or email Courtney.Sargent@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 28 Days (3 December 2024 to 22 January 2025)
SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 22 January 2025
NOTICE OF ADVERTISED DEVELOPMENT
Council has received the following Development Applications (DA):
DA NO: 16-2024-542 1
DEVELOPMENT SITE: LOTS: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11 &12 DP: 285191 4 Fleet Street SALAMANDER BAY, 11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19 & 20 Inlet Close SALAMANDER BAY, 21 Ridgeview Drive SALAMANDER BAY
PROPOSAL DESCRIPTION: Multi-dwelling housing (32 new townhouses), alterations and additions to existing cabins, change of use of existing tourist accommodation to dwellings, community title subdivision, and construction of civil and landscaping works.
APPLICANT: PERCEPTION PLANNING PTY LTD
CONSENT AUTHORITY: Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel
ASSESSING OFFICER: Courtney Sargent – phone 4988 0263 or email Courtney.Sargent@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
NOTIFICATION PERIOD: 28 Days (3 December 2024 to 22 January 2025)
SUBMISSION DUE DATE: 22 January 2025
Where to view information: Online portstephens.nsw.gov.au or datracker.portstephens.nsw.gov.au
Council’s Administration Building 116 Adelaide Street, Raymond Terrace (between 9am and 5pm weekdays)
To make a submission: Anyone can make a submission to Council during the exhibition period. If the submission is an objection, then the grounds of the objection must be clearly specified. Submissions can be made in any format (including video or audio), which can be sent via email and is less than 10mb in size. Mail PO BOX 42 Raymond Terrace NSW 2324 Email council@portstephens.nsw.gov.au
Bin collection
Bootscooter celebrates century of love, joy and resilience
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retired to Port Stephens, where she embraced an active lifestyle.
She was a passionate dancer and a proud member of the Bay Bootscooters line-dancing group, cherishing the friendships she made along the way.
Even into her later years, Lorraine remained independent, driving and dancing until 2020 when a mild stroke slowed her down but couldn’t diminish her spirit.
Lorraine marked her centenary with a family gathering in Narooma, with her children, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild travelling from across NSW and Victoria.
Upon returning home, a belated birthday party at Sandy Shores, Salamander Bay, brought together over 80 friends and family members to honour her incredible journey.
Guests enjoyed delicious food, stunning floral arrangements, chocolates and heartfelt gifts, making
it a celebration as vibrant as Lorraine herself, who can now boast a total of nine grandchildren and sixteen great grandchildren.
Daughter Christine said: “Lorraine attributes her longevity to staying active, never smoking or drinking and keeping a good sense of humour.
“Her century-long story is one of perseverance, love, and an indomitable zest for life, a true inspiration to all who know her.”
Happy 100th birthday, Lorraine.
Award for Council and Hume Housing
By Lindsay HALL
PORT Stephens Council has received an award for “making an outstanding contribution to community housing outcomes through organisational collaboration”.
The award was
presented by PowerHousing Australia at a recent conference.
The organisation is an independent, not-for-profit group that represents 38 registered community housing providers across the country, which collectively provide homes for more than 90,000 Australians.
Council Community Futures Director Steven
Peart, used the recent council meeting to announce the award and present it to Mayor Leah Anderson.
“The award is in recognition of the great achievements that have been delivered,” he said.
“[These include] the development of the Raymond Terrace subprecinct master plan; the formation and ongoing support of the Port Stephens
Homelessness Stakeholder Advocacy Group; and the recent lodgement of a development application for the redevelopment of three government owned sites into thirteen new mixed tenure homes in Raymond Terrace - one of the largest investments in Port Stephens in community housing in over a decade.”
The award is shared with Hume Community
Housing Association, an organisation that is partnering with the Council to address the needs of the region.
“The partnership truly highlights the key role that local governments can play in coordinating and facilitating initiatives that have real community impact.”
Join
Tour - 28 to 31 March
Join us on this all inclusive, fully guided tour of the Blue Mountains.
Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, New Norfolk, Hobart, Mt Wellington, Bruny Island, Port Arthur, Mona, Richmond, Ross, Freycinet, Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston
Join us on this allinclusive, fully guided adventure of Kangaroo Island via Coonawarra & The Great Ocean Road. Get up close and personal with Australian Sea Lions at Seal Bay Contact Travelwise for the full itinerary or go to our website for tour inclusions and options.
COACH DEPARTS: Kew - Harrington - Taree INCLUDES:
Join us on this most ambitious, fully
Staying 3 nights at the palatial Carrington Hotel highlights of our Heritage Area.
The Three Sisters - Newly Reopened Zig Zag Railway - Hydro Majestic High Tea & Tour - Scenic World - Everglades House & Gardens Tour - Bygone Beauty’s Treasured Teapot Museum Devonshire
Burnie, Wynyard, Cradle Mountain, Strahan, Queenstown, Derwent Bridge, New Norfolk, Hobart, Mt Wellington, Bruny Island, Port Arthur, Mona, Richmond, Ross, Freycinet, Bicheno, St Helens, Bay of Fires, Pyengana, Bridestowe Estate, Launceston
COACH DEPARTS: Kew - Harrington - Taree
Transport, Accommodation, Meals, Tours
q Lorraine surrounded by family at Salamander Bay.
Simon EKINS 0434 890 157 simon@newsofthearea.com.au
Lindsay HALL 0430 048 398 lindsay@newsofthearea.com.au
Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au
Email us the exact wording and we will email back a proof and price ads@newsofthearea.com.au
Phone us: (02) 4981 8882
Support for Aboriginal victims of family violence
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support following the roll-out of the NSW Government’s Safe and Strong program in Port Stephens.
“Safe and Strong” is funded through a $13 million investment under the National Partnership Agreement with the Commonwealth Government.
It uses a dual model of early intervention support for both victim-survivors and their children who are experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, family violence.
Service providers will deliver specialist early support such as counselling, family capacity building, and supported playgroups.
Caseworkers will help families to identify early signs of violence in their homes, and deliver therapeutic, trauma-informed and culturally safe support focusing on the needs and experiences of victim-survivors and their
children.
Eleven Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) will deliver Safe and Strong in ten priority locations across NSW, including the Warlga Ngurra Women and Children’s Refuge in Port Stephens.
Warlga Ngurra is a specialist early intervention and homelessness service for women and their children operating throughout the Hunter including Raymond Terrace and Karuah.
Minister for Families and Communities and Member for Port Stephens, Kate Washington said, “Evidence shows that early intervention supports can have a direct
impact in building resilience for children and young people who are experiencing family violence.
“Any child experiencing family violence is one child too many.
“We are doing all we can to tackle this abhorrent horror in the Port Stephens and Hunter community by delivering supports that are aimed to help victims heal and recover.
“This is an important program to help Aboriginal families and communities in the Hunter stay safe and end the cycle of abuse in their homes.”
Warlga Ngurra Women and Children’s Refuge manager Belinda Reed said the organisation is “deeply honoured and excited” to receive the Safe and Strong
funding.
“This support will enable Warlga Ngurra to strengthen our vital work with Aboriginal women and their children, providing early intervention and support for victimsurvivors of domestic and family violence.
“Our community faces unique challenges, and this funding will help us deliver culturally safe, responsive services that empower women, children, and families to heal, thrive, and break the cycle of violence.
“Together, we can create stronger, safer futures for our people.”
The Safe and Strong project is funded for 12 months and will be independently evaluated to measure its impact and effectiveness.
The Man Walk comes to Raymond Terrace
By Lindsay HALL
THE Man Walk, an international movement started to encourage men to support one another in dealing with mental health issues, has established a chapter in Raymond Terrace.
The group’s local founder “Stephen”, saw the value of the initiative in other places he has lived.
“In Kempsey a friend made me aware of it,” he said.
“It hadn’t really gone anywhere so I
offered to take it on.
“We changed to a time and day that worked for more men, we advertised and it grew from there.”
Stephen led The Man Walk in Kempsey for nearly two years, during which time the regular group grew to almost 20.
“We’d meet at eight o’clock, take a few photos, go for a walk and then grab a coffee at one of the local cafes.”
The movement, which currently hosts 71 regular walking groups across the country, was started in Kiama by Mark
Burns, whose idea was to “provide a platform for men to connect with other men in their local community, which assists in combating social isolation and loneliness, as well as providing an opportunity to exercise in a social environment with low barriers to entry.”
The Man Walk is also hosted at Shoal Bay, but Stephen felt there was “a ready market” and a need for more men’s groups in Raymond Terrace.
“I came to the Men’s Shed and suggested the idea at a meeting there.”
KMYC will be closed as of 14th December 2024 and will reopen on 31st January 2025.
The committee would like to wish all their members a very Merry
After launching on 19 November, International Men’s Day, Stephen has continued to promote The Man Walk.
“We want to make it okay to talk, and we want to make it okay for men to ask for help if they need it.”
The Man Walk is on in Raymond Terrace every Wednesday at 8am, commencing at the Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed.
Meet Your Council: Mark Watson
By Lindsay HALL
THIS week, News Of The Area speaks to recently elected Port Stephens councillor, Mark Watson.
Who are you and where do you come from?
I moved to Port Stephens ten years ago with my wife Kaila, to be closer to her family and to raise our daughter. Since then, we have been involved in the community through our local RFS brigade and Kaila through the PTF at St Philip’s Christian College.
I have had 20 years experience in the hospitality industry. My last port of call in the kitchen was at The Deck in Soldiers Point for seven years. But I have long given up the chef’s knives and am currently working at Good Food Distributors.
Was there a particular impetus for your involvement in local government? Has it been a natural extension of your career and other community involvement?
Doing right for the
community is important.
Many people were raising issues with me, which encouraged me to take action.
Working in the hospitality sector and then in the supply chain [side of the industry] really put me in a position [of] dealing with a lot of businesses that are struggling, or people who had concerns that were falling on deaf ears.
What do you believe is the key to an effective local Council?
Hard work and dedication but importantly, communication.
So far, this council term, I believe, is off to a good start.
There will always be differences, and we will not always see eye to eye, but so far, we are able to communicate and deliver effective outcomes, which is beneficial for wider parts of the community.
The staff have been brilliant and very supportive of the elected body.
What unique qualities and/or perspective do you bring to Port Stephens
Council?
Through my years of work, it provided me the ability of working under pressure and being a leader.
I will not be afraid to ask the challenging questions given the opportunity. We have a very important role to deliver the best outcomes, not only in East Ward but all of Port Stephens.
Do you feel there have been any particular demographics of the Port Stephens community that have been underrepresented, or issues that have gone unaddressed, to which you would like to draw attention?
The reality is there is always room for improvement. Through community engagement and consultation this term of council plans to reach wider and further than before.
It's important we get a variety of feedback from all parts of our community to help shape future decisions.
My saying around this circle is “How can we do
better?" and this is the approach I will be taking forward.
What feeds your soul, or fuels your passion?
I would like to see a community that my daughter plus the young families of Port Stephens can grow up in and thrive; this fuels my passion.
Is there anything you would like the wider community to better understand about their Council?
I think there is a good mix of councillors elected with intentions of working hard for their community.
We have a lot of work to do on many levels, but rest assured we are backed by many hard-working staff.
We won't always get it right and your respectful input would be appreciated moving forward to find ways to do better. An engaged community providing input from many aspects will help shape a clear path forward benefiting the wider community.
Region shines bright at 2024 NSW Tourism Awards
FOUR exceptional local tourism operators were celebrated at the prestigious
2024 NSW Tourism Awards, held at The Star Sydney on Thursday, 28 November.
This annual event, hosted by the NSW Tourism Association, honours
excellence in the state’s tourism industry.
The NSW Tourism Awards recognise businesses and operators delivering world-class visitor experiences, showcasing the passion, innovation, and resilience driving NSW’s tourism sector.
The awards also serve as the gateway for NSW businesses to compete nationally at the Australian Tourism Awards, set to take place in Adelaide, SA early 2025.
Moonshadow TQC Cruises took out a Silver in the Major Tour & Transport Operator category, while Aquamarine Adventures was a finalist in the Tour & Transport Operator category.
4WD Tours R Us won two Silver awards, in the Major Tourist Attraction and
Tour & Transport Operator categories, and the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary won Silver in the Tourism Attraction category.
“We are absolutely thrilled to see our local operators recognised on such a prestigious stage,” said Jo Thomas, CEO of Destination Port Stephens.
“Port Stephens is more than a destination; it’s a community of passionate and innovative tourism professionals dedicated to delivering unforgettable experiences.
“These accolades reflect the hard work, creativity, and commitment to sustainability that make our region truly special.”
Council’s Director of Community Futures, Steve Peart, attended the ceremony to accept the award on behalf
of the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary.
“It’s an honour to accept this award on behalf of our beloved Port Stephens Koalas,” Mr Peart said.
“This prestigious award recognises the relentless dedication of our passionate Koala Sanctuary staff to conservation and preservation efforts”, he added.
The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is a partnership between Port Stephens Council, the NSW Government, and a local volunteer care group known as Port Stephens Koala Hospital.
The Sanctuary’s focus is on conservation and protecting the threatened species so that future generations can enjoy witnessing koalas in the wild.
q Councillor Mark Watson.
q The Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. Photo: Destination NSW.
Locals share Christmas favourites
By Jacie WHITFIELD
PORT Stephens locals were asked about their favourite Christmas traditions, here is what they're looking forward to.
Maryanne M, Salamander Bay:
“Christmas Eve family cocktail night.”
Indi B Nelson Bay: “When the surrounding jacaranda trees, Christmas bush and yellow coreopsis bloom, we take it as a sign to put up our tree, choosing a different theme or colour each year.
“All the snow globes, reindeers, trinkets and glittery ornaments get unpacked and strewn around the house, making it Christmasified in every room.
“We do an advent calendar of activities with visiting family which always includes a Christmas lights tour in Medowie, festive singing at the carols in Fly Point, mandatory movie binges on The Grinch, Love Actually and The Holiday, gingerbread house
decorating, snow globe art, bon bon filled crackers made from toilet rolls, and wreath making.
“Santa gets his annual staple of milk and cookies while Rudolph gets a juicy carrot in anticipation of the floor load of presents.
“The actual day starts after a dawn gift exchange and Santa sacks for everyone; the floor disappears under a sea of crumpled paper, kid’s toys, books, toiletries and a few high-ticket items.
“After a beach walk, BBQ breakfast and ocean swim, we lay a beautifully festive table and cook a baked dinner with all the trimmings.
“Dessert has to be a buffet of pavlova with tropical fruits, Christmas pudding and custard and trifle that only gets better by Boxing Day.
“Poppy’s Irish cream recipe remake often gets sipped on over ice with a shortbread biscuit, a fruit mince pie or a wedge of Nanny’s milk-soaked bread fruit cake while playing board games, Mahjong or cards.”
Kim S, Anna Bay: “Christmas dinner of pork, turkey, chicken, veg and salad, followed by trifle
and Christmas pudding a week before Christmas for family who can't join us on Christmas Day.
“On Christmas Day we open presents followed by breakfast of scrambled eggs with salmon and ham, with maybe a mimosa on the side.
“Lunch is again pork, turkey, chicken, veg and salad followed by trifle and Christmas pudding with custard/ice cream/ cream.
“This finds us all in a food coma.”
Liane G, Corlette:
“My stuffed moist turkey has been a big winner for years, so I dare not deviate from the recipe.
“Singing Christmas carols around the table from carol books by candlelight... and not one person in the family in tune.”
Kerri R, Soldiers Point: “All the cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies baby!”
Zet S, Shoal Bay: “We swap Santa's sleigh for a surfboard.
“As I am an atrocious cook, it's always seafoodmostly grilled prawns.
“A family tradition is firmly becoming a cricket game at Boxy Beach in the late afternoon.
“Christmas for us is a sandy affair.
“After Christmas the SUVs are packed with bikes, boards and presents as they hit the highway.
“For me it's a ham sandwich, aircon and cricket on the TV... quiet and peaceful, until a week later when we do it all again to ring in the NY.”
Margaret F, Nelson Bay: “Christmas tree and decorations put up 14 days before Christmas and back down 14 days after - not before or after those dates.
“Presents opened on Christmas morning and a huge, cooked breakfast to 'line the stomach' and with
champagne of course.
“Christmas dinner with family and friends and a catnap to let it digest before the next lot of food and drink appears.
“Making special memories with whomever is still up for more drinks on Christmas night.
“All very exhausting but definitely my favourite time of year too!”
Margaret H, Little Beach: “I love having traditional Christmas lunch with my hubby.
“All our families live elsewhere so we always set a place each for our mums.
“Easy, because they didn’t eat anyway!”
Jean B, Nelson Bay: “Being with my husband, our son and friends.
“Always celebrate on Christmas Eve as that's when we had it when I was young.
“Way too much food and always good conversation and lots of
Have Your Say
love and simply... family time.”
Sue I, Shoal Bay: “Being with my husband, boys and their partners.
“Lots of decorations and lights fill the house.
This year there is a grandbaby!
“It’s a food fest.
“They love, as soon as they arrive, my cheese and bacon bread heated up in the oven (recipe passed down from my Mum).
“Pork and crackling with salad and veggies.
“Then Toblerone mousse, rocky road, Mars Bar slice and Tim Tam balls.
“One person puts on the Santa hat and distributes the presents from under the tree.
“In the background Bing Crosby is singing Christmas carols.
“Jenga played all day.
“That's my Christmas and I can't wait.”
News Of The Area would love to hear your OPINION and VIEWS on issues and topics affecting our area. Keep Letters to the Editor under 250 words for its best chance of publication. Please be aware that there is no guarantee or of publication from your submission to us. Publication will be determined by the editor around available space, relevance and appropriatenessmedia@newsofthearea.com.au
Medowie-Williamtown
DV on the rise as Yacaaba funding falls
By Simon EKINS
NELSON Bay and Salamander Bay Rotary clubs have united to voice their stance against domestic violence (DV).
November was named Domestic Violence Awareness Month and street marches were staged in Newcastle, Maitland and the Port Stephens area to stress Rotary’s stance against DV.
Guest speakers at the gathering were Jill Pretty, President of the Yacaaba Centre and Matt Zimmerman, Acting Superintendent of the Port Stephens Area Command.
They relayed the impact that domestic violence is having on the local community.
They elaborated on the many forms of DV such as
physical, sexual, financial and coercive control.
“This is basically the desire for the perpetrator to maintain control over another person," explained Acting Superintendent Zimmerman.
“This has also been reported in cases where pets are mistreated in order to control their owner, and RSPCA and PAWS have indicated that this occurs in over 70 percent of cases."
Domestic violence is a growing problem within our communities and is largely unreported, suggesting that the problem is far greater than statistics indicate.
There are many reasons for DV to occur, mainly poor mental health, poverty, drug and alcohol problems
as well as the current economic situation leading to homelessness.
The Yacaaba Centre reported that their funding has fallen in recent times, resulting in a loss of key personnel.
Jill Pretty said: “In an age when DV is increasing, this highly valued service cannot exist and we desperately need the support of the entire community."
For further information on the Yacaaba Centre and to help with donations, visit yacaabacentre.com.au.
q Acting Superintendent Matt Zimmerman with Ella Clarke, President of Nelson Bay Rotary, Jill Pretty, President of the Yacaaba Centre and Harry Parker, President of Salamander Rotary.
Entries open for art award
THE Anderson Art Award, organised by Tea Gardens’ Galleries in the Gardens, is now open for entries.
Entries are invited from artists and sculptors from all over New South Wales.
First prize awards of $4,000 are offered in two categories as well as two highly commended ($1,000) awards.
submitted on a 2D or 3D entry form and must include quality photographs of the entry.
Entries must be received online by 5pm on 27 March 2025.
Entries should be
There is a twodimensional (2D) category for paintings, drawings or prints on paper or canvas and a three-dimensional (3D) category for ceramic, metal, wood or other material sculptures.
“Our curatorial committee will select 150 artworks for final judging and display in The Gallery from the
entries received, using the photographs supplied,” said Anderson Art Award coordinator Ian Morphett.
Selected artists will be asked to deliver their artworks to The Gallery by 4pm on 4 April.
The finally selected entries will be judged by eminent independent experts and announced at an opening event on Saturday 12 April 2025.
The Anderson Art Award acknowledges the magnificent contributions that locals Rob and Lee Anderson have made to the arts on the Myall Coast over many years.
“Their most significant [contribution] has been
establishing ‘The Gallery’ on the Tea Gardens waterfront,” said Mr Morphett.
“The Andersons purchased the historic cottage at 81 Marine Drive in 2017 and offered it to Galleries in the Gardens to operate as an art gallery.
“The Gallery has been hugely successful generating high visitation rates and excellent sales.
“Galleries in the Gardens Inc is a not-for-profit cooperative of more than 50 local artists.”
Competition details and entry forms can be found at www.galleriesinthegardens. com.au/andersonartaward
q Crowds at the Anderson Art Award opening event in 2023.
Power plants warning as mass blackout scare loses heat
By Alex MITCHELL and BRISSENDEN, AAP
SWELTERING workers and residents were spared mass blackouts after being asked to go easy on airconditioning and turn off lights and appliances during a heatwave.
The energy regulator forecasted a shortfall in electricity supplies in NSW between 3.30pm and 5pm on Wednesday, 25 November, brought on by high demand and outages at key coal-fired power plants.
Hundreds of thousands of public servants across the state were asked to lift thermostat settings on air-
conditioners and take other energy-saving measures.
But by 6pm the energy warnings were downgraded as a cool front moved in and mass blackouts were avoided.
The risk of power supply shortage was significantly reduced on Wednesday afternoon, Energy Minister Penny Sharpe said.
"We thank the households, business and employees who have taken the steps to reduce demand on the system this evening," she said.
Major energy users such as water providers and the City of Sydney lowered their power demands
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between 3pm and 8pm, shifting electricity usage outside the peak window.
Earlier, Ms Sharpe stressed if people needed to use power they should do so.
"But what we are trying to do is reduce demand across the system by large energy users, by the government as well, and we now ask households and businesses to see what they can do… a lot of small activities actually really help demand across the network," she said.
The Australian Energy Market Operator's declaration urged industry to generate as much power as possible and restore all available powerlines across the grid to meet rocketing demand.
The Bureau of Meteorology issued severe heatwave warnings for large swathes of the NSW coast, including the Sydney metropolitan area, the Hunter region and the south coast.
Warnings were also in place for parts of ACT and Queensland, including an extreme heatwave for
units are offline in NSW for maintenance before the summer peak in demand.
But climate change had extended the hot season, which should prompt a rethink on when maintenance takes place while renewable energy sources were rolled out, Premier Chris Minns said.
"Increasingly, you'll see heatwave conditions earlier and earlier in the year and obviously we have to manage that, but at the
VACANCIES
same time, we're seeing more solar come on and more battery technology that can fill the gap," he said.
Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen earlier insisted there was enough electricity in reserve to get through the day, adding the system was acting as intended.
Sydney's city centre recorded a peak temperature of nearly 33C late on Wednesday morning, while by early afternoon the mercury had
Western Sydney peak temperature forecasts were more than 10C above November average maximums, weather bureau senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury said.
"While anomalously high, these temperatures are not expected to break any records (but) it's more the duration of the warm conditions, including those warm nights, that is more significant," she said.
Retirement Living: Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay and Salamander
Home Care Services - Privately Funded
Day Centre - Fingal Bay
Meals on Wheels
Australia's far-north tip. Four coal-plant
risen to nearly 39C across a swathe of suburbs from the southwest to northwest.
q A cool change helped NSW avoid power blackouts as hot conditions lifted power demand.
Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Rosemary’s winning senior’s story
By Lindsay HALL
THIS year marks a decade of the NSW Seniors Card
“Senior’s Stories”, an annual writing competition celebrating the lives of Australia’s older citizens by encouraging them to share personal stories.
From those stories submitted, 100 are chosen to be included in a publication that is made freely available through the NSW Government website.
In 2025, three of those stories will come from Port Stephens.
Rosemary Osborne is one of the contributors selected after submitting a story inspired by this year's competition theme, “What
Made Me?”
“I thought ‘I’ve got a story there’,” she said.
Rosemary’s story is “Hall’s Brown Leather LaceUp Shoes” and may well strike a chord with many other women of her generation that shared her profession.
“I did have a very extensive career,” she said of her more than 50 years in nursing.
“I worked in lots of different areas.”
Though Rosemary spent the bulk of her working life in the city, she describes herself as essentially “a country girl”, originally hailing from the NSW central west.
“I think that comes through in all my stories.”
Her winning entry this year fixates on the titular
shoes that were a constant companion throughout her many years of nursing.
“I wore those shoes nearly my whole career, so they were in quite a state by the end.”
A brief memoir that is equal parts melancholy and pride, Rosemary’s story touches on a myriad of her experiences in emergency departments, operating theatres, saving lives, delivering babies and walking endless hospital corridors.
“Senior’s Stories” was introduced in 2013 “as a way of recognising and valuing the experiences of NSW seniors and building connections between the young and old.”
Printed editions of the collections can be found at public libraries, and can be
downloaded from nsw.gov.au.
Rosemary believes the competition is a wonderful opportunity for people to share their life experiences.
“Anyone can do it.”
One of her fellow winners this year “had never written anything at all, but he saw it and it struck a chord with him as well, and he ended up being selected.
“Until you sit down and have a go, you don’t really know. It’s such a thrill.”
The winners are invited to attend a launch event at Parliament House each year which Rosemary describes as very exciting for everyone.
The “Senior’s Stories” competition is conducted each year by the Fellowship of Australian Writers.
Boat Harbour residents get free CPR training
By Simon EKINS
BOAT Harbour residents have been the recipients of free training by a local non-profit organisation, learning the basics of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) operation.
Instructor Shaun Hicks
is a registered nurse in Emergency at John Hunter Hospital, and a volunteer with Hunter Heart Safe, an organisation of approximately 40 volunteer frontline workers such as nurses, doctors and paramedics.
As Shaun began his instruction, he said: “We see all too often what
happens when we don’t have good quality CPR in the community, so we’re here to share knowledge and ensure you know how to deal with cardiac arrest should the need arise.
“Two months ago, Megan Chippindale called me and said someone had crashed into her front yard and was displaying signs of a cardiac arrest.
“Luckily for Anna Bay’s
David Robinson, Megan is also a Registered Nurse and administered CPR, while still in her pyjamas.
“She was assisted by local, Sarah, and tradie, Patrick, who was working close by and heard shouts for help.
“David is sitting here today because of the bystanders' response.
“About a week later, a seventeen-year-old cricketer was training at his local club when he also suffered a cardiac arrest.
“He was saved by his coach who was trained in CPR.”
David met first responder Patrick at the free training event for the first time since the incident eight weeks ago.
He was emotional as he thanked Patrick for helping to save his life.
“It’s been a long road and I’m still sore from broken ribs from the actions that saved my life,” he said.
“I’m on medication and I have my own personal defib fitted, which has saved my life again - at least once”.
David was about to take his boat out for a fishing trip when he blacked out.
“I don’t remember much, but thanks to these guys I’m here today.”
He was joined by his daughter Claire who took the opportunity to practice CPR on a dummy provided, following instruction from Shaun.
Boat Harbour Tennis Club Secretary Stephen Hopkin said: “We have our own AED here in the clubhouse thanks to Port Stephens Council and together with this training we’re aiming to help keep our community safe”.
The free event was a success with Shaun aiming to provide further training at other Port Stephens locations in the future.
For more information, visit hunterheartsafe.com.
q Rosemary in her Hall’s Brown Leather lace-up shoes in 1967.
Photo: supplied.
q Megan Chippindale, Patrick from Salamander Bay, David Robinson and daughter Claire.
q Claire practises CPR while Dad, David, and Patrick watch.
AROUND 60 members of the Probus Club of Port Stephens enjoyed perfect weather last Thursday for their annual “Xmas Nibbles in the Park” event at Bagnalls Beach Reserve.
The club’s publicity officer, Ann Gibson said attendees were “dressed to the nines” in seasonal finery.
“Tables were set up, nibbles were produced and some Christmas cheer was poured with the anticipation that Santa would find time to visit,” Ann said.
“As usual, he didn’t disappoint and came striding out of the carpark ringing his silver bell.
“Rudolph and the team
q Carol Gracey and Doreen Stephenson won ‘Best Dressed’.
Overhaul pledge for 'shocking' failures in foster care
By Samantha LOCK, AAP
MAJOR reform has been promised to fix a $2 billion out-of-home care system after a review found it fails to meet the needs of vulnerable children or show that taxpayer funds are being properly spent.
The analysis of NSW's outsourced foster-care system included an investigation into how funds were being used by nongovernment providers.
It found it was often not possible to work out if public funds were being used to meaningfully support vulnerable children and young people.
The report, presented to the state government in October and released on Monday, described NSW's out-of-home care system as not fit for purpose and "characterised by a profound lack of accountability and ineffective oversight".
The review also found poor data management and the failure to share crucial information about children in care created unnecessary administrative burdens and inconsistent delivery of services.
The $2 billion system, overseen by the Department of Communities and Justice, was described as "overly complex, fragmented and slow to respond in the best interests of children and young people".
"We could not follow the dollar on the actual delivery of services to children and young people," the authors said.
The review was led by former NSW Police assistant commissioner Gelina Talbot and a former senior departmental official. They made 13 recommendations, including greater financial transparency between providers and foster carers as well as boosting accountability with more regular audits.
Carers should also expect more timely access to funding and support services.
Premier Chris Minns said the report was sobering to read.
"In out-of-home care, we're dealing with the most vulnerable people in our community, those that are in a desperate situation and need the very best care," he said.
Families and
Communities Minister Kate Washington said the report laid out a roadmap to rebuild accountability and oversight in the system.
"It's shocking that some out-of-home care providers are failing to provide basic supports to children, despite being paid hundreds of thousands, and in some cases, millions, of taxpayer
dollars to do so," she said.
The NSW government will review the report's findings and recommendations before formally responding within months.
It moved to ban socalled "alternative care" arrangements from February, putting an end to the use of unaccredited emergency accommodation
such as hotels and motels to house children at a cost of up to $2 million per person each year.
Public Service Association general secretary Stewart Little said the child-protection system needed to be returned to state hands.
"Kids deserve to be in family-like environments,
Christmas support for Legacy
By Simon EKINS
AFFECTIONALLY known as
“Australia's largest family”, Legacy was founded in 1923 by a group of WWI veterans who took up a “legacy of care” for the welfare of deceased mates' families.
Dedicated to caring for the families of deceased or seriously injured veterans, Legacy has steadfastly advocated for the entitlements, rights and benefits of individuals and families for more than 100 years.
To support this ongoing work, Nelson Bay Torchbearers - the fundraising arm of Legacy Port Stephens - are holding a Christmas stocking raffle.
like with foster parents, not placed with for-profit entities which spend their whole time trying to wring as much cash as they can out of each child," he said.
Hundreds of child protection workers walked off the job in May calling for NSW to recruit an additional 500 staff to help fix the embattled sector.
barbeque and various gift vouchers and baskets.
The huge first prize stocking has been made by volunteers from the Salamander Bay Men's Shed with material provided by Bunnings, stuffed with a vast array of perfect gifts for all ages.
Other prizes include an assortment of liquor and Christmas nibbles, a deluxe
“The raffle will be drawn at Soldiers Point Bowling Club on Friday, 20 December from 5.30pm,” said Barbara Williams AO from Port Stephens Legacy. For ticket enquiries ahead of the draw, contact Barbara Williams on 0421 420 880.
must have been left in the bushes having a graze.”
Club President Rob Buchanan thanked Annette Howitt for organising the
event, while Santa was presented with a thank you gift for his appearance.
Carol Gracey and Doreen Stephenson won
“Best Dressed” and Janette McAndrew won a Christmas hamper.
The club will wind up the year with a Christmas lunch
before taking a break over the school holidays. Members will reconvene for a general meeting in January 2025.
q Probus members at Bagnalls Beach Reserve.
q Families and Communities Minister Kate Washington says the report will help rebuild the care system. Photo. Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Coastal forest regeneration
AN intrepid group of volunteers will gather this weekend to regenerate and improve the resilience of coastal forest on One Mile Headland.
On Saturday morning, 7 December, the Friends of Tomaree National Park, in partnership with Escape Eco Adventures, will join forces with community participants at the site along Tomaree’s Coastal Walk.
“We will learn about the native vegetation here, and find out how to deal with some of the invasive weeds,” said Sue Olsson, Friends of Tomaree National Park.
“We’ll be removing weeds and preparing the site for future native planting next Autumn.”
For more information visit the EcoNetwork Port Stephens website.
q Bush care in action on One Mile Headland.
Australia urged to follow Middle East on nuclear power
By Jennifer DUDLEYNICHOLSON, AAP
NUCLEAR power reactors could be operating in Australia within 10 to 12 years, an inquiry has heard, if the government follows the example of the United Arab Emirates rather than Europe.
Two international nuclear consultants laid out that timetable at the Nuclear Power Generation inquiry in Canberra last Thursday, saying Australia's existing nuclear safety authority could prepare laws to allow the technology within three years.
But their account contradicted earlier evidence from the Australian Energy Regulator, which warned it could take as long as 10 years just to create a regulatory framework for the technology.
The inquiry, in its 10th public hearing, was called in October after coalition leader Peter Dutton announced plans to establish nuclear power plants in seven Australian locations if the party won the next federal election.
But details of a switch to nuclear power generation remained unclear, including a timeline for nuclear plant development, the cost to establish facilities, and how many would be required to meet Australia's energy needs.
Port Stephens pentathlete training for LA Olympics
By Jacie WHITFIELD
NEWLY inducted Obstacle Course Racing (OCR) competitor Amos Vagg has been laser pistol shooting, running, show jumping, epee fencing and swimming his way around the world.
He’s participated in Modern Pentathlons in China, Bali and Lithuania since 2019.
The dedicated athlete’s training includes, “swimming up to four times weekly before or after work as a lifeguard and swim teacher”.
He fences two nights a week in Newcastle and commutes most weekends to Sydney for additional training.
“I run and shoot up to three times a week whenever and wherever I can, [practice] ninja skills at local parks twice a week and visit a Ninja gym on the Central Coast fortnightly.
“I [also] horse ride twothree days a week courtesy of the awesome people around Anna Bay who let me ride their
SPORT
horses in a mutually beneficial arrangement.
“Their horses get training and care, and I get to hang out with the adorable guys whenever I want without the cost and challenges that presents.”
As a teenager, Amos was drawn into Tetrathlon competitions through his involvement with Pony Club Victoria.
The cool appeal of shooting only amplified his progression into Tetrathlon where he quickly achieved Reserve Champion at the nationals in 2019; champion in 2021; and reserve champion again in 2023.
The only fencing coach in Amos’ hometown was coincidentally a teacher at his high school who also coached the Pentathlon team for the Athens Olympics.
“I had a great head start there,” he said.
Amos has continued competing in the Pony Club tetrathlon, and recently
Nuclear consultant Ian Grant told the committee Australia could have plants established within 10 to 12 years of making a clear decision about its energy
returned from a month of travelling Ireland and the UK, competing against other Pony Club members from across the world in the international exchange.
“It was one of the best experiences of my life. Just spending time in incredible places with the kindest community of people, all with a passion for horses and a willingness to try a bit of anything else, was incredible.”
Amos’ primary goal is to keep improving.
“There is nothing more satisfying than pushing yourself physically and mentally… and watching your limits expand.”
Amos was originally aiming to compete in the 2028 LA Olympics in the Modern Pentathlon, but his favourite discipline of horse riding was dropped after the Paris Games.
Although disappointed that riding has been eliminated, Amos appreciates the opportunity for a new demographic of athletes to master new feats of athleticism.
Instead, he has picked
a model of getting nuclear power up quickly. Photo: AP PHOTO.
future.
The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) already had a legal framework in place the nation could update and use, Mr Grant said, shortening the time for a nuclear rollout.
"We submit it would be feasible for ARPANSA to be ready to review and initiate... a formal construction licence application in less than three years from the day of a policy announcement," he said.
"A nuclear power plant based on proven designs, in our opinion, could be operational within 10 to 12 years of a government policy decision."
The timeline, he said, was based on his experience in the United Arab Emirates, which had established its first nuclear power plant in 2020 after announcing plans
up the new sport of Obstacle Racing, and is training and studying diligently to perfect his abilities across all disciplines.
If he can afford it, he will head into 2026 working to become a fulltime athlete in the lead-up to the LA Olympics.
Amos is keen to see a Pentathlon community develop in Newcastle and across NSW.
He has been running small “come and try days“ across the state, ranging from a handful of people shooting after a parkrun to a more formal event in Canberra where there were over 40 people running, shooting and fencing for the first time.
He is organising the first events the state has held in several years, starting with a triathle (a sub-sport of modern pentathlon) and a laser run at Lakeside Leisure Centre on 8 December between 10am4pm.
If you’d like to explore the possibility of participating in Pentathlon, or any combination of sports, reach out to Amos on the day.
in 2008.
Despite questions about differences in workplace safety standards between the two countries, Mr Grant said Australia should follow the UAE example rather than look to Europe or Britain.
"I would say the keys to rapid progress in the UAE were, first, clear government policy leadership combined with very effective program management and, most importantly, the selection of a supplier who was already experienced," he said.
"Some of the wellpublicised delays that have taken place in plants in Europe have really been due to the fact that they've been started with incomplete designs, temporary constructions organisations put together with no prior experience, and rather weak project management."
Energy production from UK's Hinkley Point C nuclear reactor, for example, has been delayed from 2017 to as late as 2031, and Finland's Olkiluoto reactor began operating last year, 14 years after its intended launch date.
The latest nuclear projections contradict earlier statements at the inquiry from Australian Energy Regulator Claire Savage, who told MPs nuclear guidelines could be ready within 12 to 18 months and it could take "eight to 10 years for a regulatory framework".
Construction on a nuclear power plant, she said, could not begin until the framework had been established, potentially pushing out development to 2047 when existing coal-fired power stations would be beyond their working lives.
q A consultant says Australia should look to the UAE for
q Amos Vagg in training and in competition ahead of his 2028 Olympics bid.
Superb tons by Moxey and Socha lift Pythons to victory
By Chris KARAS
UNBEATEN centuries from club legend Jarrod Moxey and valuable all-rounder Luke Socha were a feature of Port Stephens Pythons’ rousing one day victories in Newcastle District Senior Cricket action.
The gifted Moxey was at his classy best in the Pythons’ first grade victory over Wests Journeymen at King Park –smashing 108 not out in a successful run chase.
He faced 101 balls and demonstrated his power hitting with six towering sixes and nine boundaries as he shared a vital unbroken eighth wicket partnership of 34 with Jason Eveleigh (10 not out) to guide Port Stephens (7-178) to a three wicket triumph.
It capped a best on ground performance for Moxey, who earlier grabbed the figures of 2-23 to help skittle Wests for a total of 176 with support from spinner Tyran Eveleigh (342 off eight overs) and quick Harry Kean (2-54).
The Journeymen were best served by Chris Diebert (31), Cameron Wells (30), Dylan
Barnes (30), skipper Paul Gauci (23) and Harry Cornford (20 not out) with the bat, while Mik Osgood (2-23) and Alex Scott (2-24) shone with the ball.
Port Stephens skipper Josh Moxey told News Of The Area that his brother’s ton “proved the difference between winning and losing.”
“Jarrod struck the ball well and showed why he is regarded as a genuine matchwinner on his day.”
It was the Pythons’ third win of the season in Division One and lifts the club into second spot on sixteen points – one behind competition
leaders Wests Waterboard (17 points).
Meanwhile a superb ton by the prolific Socha lifted the Port Stephens second grade X1 into top spot in the Division Two series.
The talented number three compiled a valuable 100 not out in the Pythons’ thirteen run victory over Wests Waterboard at Blackley Oval.
Socha faced 103 balls and hammered fourteen boundaries as the Pythons posted 4-180 off their 35 overs.
He shared a 54-run union with skipper Marty Blenman (23) for the third wicket and
70 run partnership with Luke Cooper (30) before an unbroken stand of 50 with Paul Le Mottee (11 not out).
Wests fell short at 8-167 despite top knocks from number six Simon Page (53 not out off 31 balls) with three sixes and six boundaries, and Ben Woodman (32 not out).
Jake Ross (2-14), Will Kirby (2-22 off seven overs), Jordan Hurst (1-21 off seven) and Stephen Ling (1-17 off six) were the pick of the Pythons bowlers.
After seven rounds, Port Stephens on seventeen points leads the Division Two table from Adamstown (sixteen)
and Warners Bay Maroon (sixteen).
Competition leaders Adamstown registered a five wicket victory over Port Stephens in a Division Six fixture at King Park.
Grant Hutchings hit an unbeaten 37 with five boundaries and a six, and together with openers Tim Kendall (27) and Jack Jordan (21) saw the visitors’ (5-103) eclipse the Pythons tally of 98 in the 20th over.
Tristan Polglase (2-8 off five), Stephen Oxford (2-23 off seven) and Daniel Lawlor (232 off seven) shone with the ball.
Nelson Bay FC U13s cap ‘almost’ magic season
By Chris KARAS
IT may have been a bittersweet finish to their Newcastle Football Community inter-district juniors campaign, but the Nelson Bay FC Under 13s girls can reflect on a season of monumental achievements.
Dan Hackett’s newlyformed squad dominated the division two competition until the final day.
They were only fifteen minutes away from championship double glory when Lake Macquarie City broke their hearts with a late match-winner at King Park, Raymond Terrace.
The Roosters may have finished the season as champions but Hackett’s golden girls were the real success story of 2024.
Lining up together for the first time, with five of the girls aged only twelve, the Bay blitzed their rivals to remain undefeated in fifteen fixtures and claim the Division Two minor premiership title.
Coach Hackett and assistant Jay Grogan quickly stumbled on a winning recipe with their rookie charges.
A proud Hackett told News Of The Area that the team’s success “was built on a solid foundation of teamwork, determination and a passion for the game.”
“It was a bitter pill to swallow losing 1-0 in the trophy decider after we beat the Roosters 2-1 in the final round,” he said.
Throughout the season the team demonstrated exceptional skill, strategy and sportsmanship.
Promising goalkeeper Zara Wilson was cool as ice, saving crucial penalties and helping her team secure vital wins while talented skipper Elodie Hackett led by example, providing rock-solid defence alongside Charlotte Drake whose determination was unwavering.
Dixi Lawson’s “heart and hustle” earned her a welldeserved award while Coco Cobb-Hamilton showed great
improvement throughout the campaign.
Nelson Bay’s midfield was anchored by all rounder Indy Chapman, unsung hero Aaliyah Grover and Eva Santich who produced an impressive debut season with the club.
Mika Grogan and Ebony Grover were a dynamic duo, posing a constant threat to opponents from each side of the pitch.
Up front, the skilful Mac Chapman shone bright, terrorising defenders and earning the Supporters’ Star Award.
Ruby Burchell gained her first assist, Aubury Manning played strongly in her first season after transferring from the United States while Mia Palmer deserves special mention for her valuable contributions in the finals series.
The team’s success was not limited to their onfield performance. They demonstrated remarkable bravery, energy and team
spirit throughout the season.
The parent group, assistant coach Jay Grogan, manager Jo Drake and Nelson Bay FC Coaching Director Steve Punshon, provided invaluable support, creating a positive and encouraging
Medal success for pickleballers
By Chris KARAS
WHEN Port Stephens pickleball rookie Gary Wilson was searching for a playing partner for the Barrington Coast Regional Doubles tournament in Taree, he didn’t have to look far.
The Boat Harbour native turned to club legend Tony Mayers who suggested
Oatley’s Hamish Robertson as a potential candidate.
Pairing up for the first time, Wilson and Robertson stole the show by claiming gold in the 60yrs plus Mens Doubles event for players with a skill level of 2.99 and under.
It was a case of instant success for the capable duo who defeated the crack
Diamond Beach combination of Rob Cormack and Chris Tilt in the final.
Seasoned campaigners
John Grace (One Mile Beach) and Stuart Johnston (Nelson Bay) picked up bronze in the category.
Wilson, Grace and Johnston were three of a 20 player Port Stephens contingent that brought home nine medals from the prestigious Taree tournament.
Outstanding duo Kim Fletcher (Nelson Bay) and Trudie Paton (Salamander Bay) also struck gold in the 49yrs and under Women's Doubles event.
The national medalists toppled Port Macquarie’s Tana MacQueen and Robyn Wilson (Lake Cathie) in the final with Grafton duo Jane Jackson and Leigh Predo snaring bronze.
Club stalwart Mayers of Fingal Bay returned home with two bronze medals –teaming up with Anna Bay’s John McDonald in the 60yrs
plus Mens Doubles for 3.0 skill level before partnering Hallidays Point Pickleball
Club president Sheila Capperauld for a podium finish in the 65yrs plus Mixed Doubles (2.99 skill).
Rainbow Flat’s Leigh Thatcher and Dennis Reeves (Diamond Beach) claimed
environment for the players to thrive.
“This amazing group of young ladies is a true representation of everything that is brilliant in our community club and sport,”
Dan said.
gold in the 60yrs plus Mens Doubles from silver medalists
Geoff Mortimer (Old Bar) and Phil Dawson (Diamond Beach) while Nabiac’s Jenny Stockdale and Black Head’s Greg Fletcher won the 65yrs plus Mixed Doubles from Leonie Woolnough (Tallwoods) and Chris Tilt (Diamond Beach).
The skilful Grace and Kim Fletcher combined to earn
“The girls’ achievements this season will be remembered for years to come and is a testament to their hard work, dedication and love for the game.”
silver in the 50yrs plus Mixed Doubles final for 2.99 under skill level – succumbing to Grafton’s husband and wife duo of Jane and Paul Jackson with Susan Douglas (Woy Woy) and Stewart Robinson (Sydney South) finishing third.
Any person interested in playing the sport of pickleball can view the Port Stephens Pickleball Club website.
q Nelson Bay FC’s outstanding Under 13 Girls squad dominated this year’s Division Two competition, finishing undefeated minor premiers and grand finalists.
q Fingal Bay’s Tony Mayers and Sheila Capperauld (Hallidays Point) claimed bronze in the 65yrs plus mixed doubles.
q Boat Harbour’s Gary Wilson and Oatley’s Hamish Robertson won the 60yrs plus event. Port Stephens duo John Grace and Stuart Johnston were third.
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• Stunning second-floor apartment in the iconic Art Decoinspired Louisa Courts
• Two surprisingly large bedrooms
• Expansive open plan living and dining area with characterful high ceilings
• Beautiful period features including ornate cornices throughout
• Desirable north-facing aspect flooding the apartment with natural light
• Just 350m stroll to the prestigious D’Albora Marina
• Perfectly positioned within footsteps of vibrant cafes and restaurants
• Easy walking distance to shops, beaches and public transport
• Low maintenance living with plumbing ready for internal laundry installation
• Open-plan 3-bedroom duplex with water glimpses, minutes from Nelson Bay CBD
• Spacious north-facing living area flowing to entertainer’s balcony
• Modern kitchen featuring new cabinetry and stone benchtops
• Master bedroom with private bathroom plus 2 large bedrooms and 2nd bathroom
• Double garage with side access and fully fenced yard
• Newly installed shutters and split system air conditioning
• Location, location
• Ideal first home, investment opportunity or low maintenance retirees home
• Three bedrooms
• Family bathroom with additional WC
• Large, tiled lounge and dining
• Gas cooking, heating and hot water
• Close to shopping, restaurants, medical and transport
• Level walk to the waterfront
Timeless elegance
stylish and functional.
unwind in the spa.
half-acre block.
The inviting bullnose verandah sets the tone, offering a perfect spot to relax while taking in the landscaped gardens.
Inside, high ceilings and a wide hallway enhance the sense of space and welcome you into a home that’s both
The versatile floorplan begins with a formal lounge near the entrance, perfect for quiet moments or entertaining guests, and at the heart of the home a spacious open-plan living and dining area, complete with a cozy wood-burning fireplace is ideal for gathering with family.
The stunning kitchen showcases a 4m Caesarstone island, AEG appliances, and a Bosch dishwasher, making it a true entertainer’s delight.
Step outside to a paved alfresco area, where you can enjoy garden views or
The half-acre block offers a peaceful semi-rural lifestyle, featuring a double garage and a massive 11m x 6.5m shed with air-conditioningperfect as a workshop, studio, or potential granny flat.
Located in the thriving Medowie area, this home offers easy access to local schools, the expanding shopping centre, Port Stephens’ famous beaches, and the Newcastle Airport.
Inspections by appointment.
Contact Tilligerry Real Estate seven days a week on 02 4039 9800.
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Nelson Bay Golf Club
24 NOVEMBER 2024 – 30 November 2024
Sunday 24 November 2024
Women’s Stableford Brushbox Course
Grade A: C Beattie 40, P Kennedy 40
Grade B: T Jeggo 38, R Birss 36
Mens Stableford Brushbox Course
Grade A: M Hoare 38, D Warder 37
Grade B: G Brown 38, M Stockenhuber 37
Grade C: N Simpson 39, P Barwell 37
Monday 25 November 2024
Vets Stableford
Division 1
1 Stephen Laming 22
2 Mike Coglan 19
3 Neil Edwards 19
Division 2
1 Leslie Mann 27
2 Peter Bowen 22
3 Gavin Thom 21
Tuesday 26 November 2024
Ladies 9-hole Stableford
Overall winners
A Lakeman 22, S Conrades 16, J Frost 14
Stableford Ladies
Grade A: J Newsham 37, C Beattie 37, F Giudes 35
Grade B: P Bowden 39, A Rumble 39, K Flatt 38
Grade C: M Garvey 41, L Frost 38, R Derrick 37
Wednesday 27 November 2024
Men's Stableford: Brushbox Course
Grade A P Elliott 39, G Hogan 36, P Sutton 36
Grade B D Unthank 42, M French (Russell Vale Golf Club) 37, P Burgess 37
Grade C P Kelly 40, T Poole 38, I Millett 36.
Men’s Stableford: Gymea Lily Course
Grade A J Rowland 41, C Tognon 38, J Nardi 38
Grade B T Thornton 43, B Leathem 40, D FLATT 39
Grade C D Cooke (Horizons Golf Resort) 38, P Lakeman 38, N Goudge 35. PCC: 0.0
Thursday 28 November 2024
Men’s Teams 1.2 Stableford: Gymea Lily Course
Overall Winners
1 John Townsend (25) 37
2 Bill Shepard (20) 34
Ladies Stableford: Xmas Bush Course
Overall Winners
1 Karen Flatt (25) 43
2 Judy McTaggart (40) 40
3 Dianne Moon (21) 39
4 Doreen Sutcliffe (37) 38
VETS : Stableford
1 Barry Lindsay 25
2 Laurie Sellers 20
Friday 29 November 2024
Ladies Stableford: Xmas Bush
Course
Overall Winners
1 Marie Garvey (49) 40
and notch up a half century in the process.”
2 Sharan King (31) 39
3 Beth MacDuff (26) 38
Men’s Stableford: Xmas Bush
Course
Grade A Don Thornton (18) 42, Peter Sutton (9) 41, Phil Murray (16) 40, Dany Plimmer (15) 39
Grade B Rod Daniels (24) 43, Frank Mahoney (24) 41, Glenn Sutton (29) 39c/b, Peter Page (30) 39
Saturday 30 November 2024
Mens C2 4bbb Stableford: Gymea Course
1. G Eaton & B Bisset 48
2. F O'Malley & M Hoare 45
Mens Stableford Brushbox Course
Grade A: J Ball 41, J Shaw 39, G Luke 37.
Grade B: R McLean 44, S Rapson 41, N RUSSELL 39.
Grade C: P Lakeman 37, W Noble 36, S Ryan 34.
Mens C1 4bbb Stableford
Overall Winners
1. Rober McLean & Peter Lakeman
2. Vinko Komadina & Neil Russell
Mens Stableford 4bbb: Gymea
Course
Grade A: G Eaton 39, T Rossi 37, M Thornber 37, M Hoare 36.
Grade B: A State 37, S Parrott 37, B Bisset 36, S Jones 35.
Grade C: R Bates 39, D Dufour 38, P Osborne 36
Crackerjack Causley clouts 62 not out in Makos victory
By Chris KARAS
NELSON Bay Cricket Club stalwart Bryce Causley was a wicket keeper-batsman on a mission recently, at Don Waring Oval.
The experienced Makos leader inspired his side’s Newcastle Senior Cricket Division 2 one-day triumph over competition leaders Warners Bay Maroon on home turf, with a dashing 62 not out.
Chasing the Maroons tally of 136, the flamboyant
Causley turned the match with a blazing knock that included eight sixes and a boundary as Nelson Bay (4-141) reached their target inside the 28th over.
Skipper Andrew Knox (25) and opening partner Ben Lynas (20) gave the Makos a flying start before Warners Bay ace Andrew Vickery kept his side in the hunt with a three wicket haul.
An elated Causley told News Of The Area that he was determined “to rack up a big score against a strong team like Warners Bay.
“It was a satisfying moment to bring down the competition leaders
The six wicket victory lifts Nelson Bay into fifth spot on fourteen points behind leaders Port Stephens (17), Adamstown, Warners Bay Maroon and The Gardens Falcons (16).
Merewether’s Mary Ellen Mudrats (6-116) rolled Nelson Bay (7-113) in a Division Six fixture at Alder Park.
Logan Williams was the pick of the Makos bowlers, snaring 2-19 off four overs after Tom McCoy (39 with three sixes and two boundaries), Joseph Connor (21 not out), Dean Gibson (18) and Riley Gibson (18 not out) had earlier made contributions with the bat.
Nelson Bay moved into the
State success for Croquet Club
By David WILSON
NELSON Bay Croquet Club has enjoyed success at the State level in recent weeks.
Pamela Barnwell won the Club’s Thompson Trophy A Grade competition in August 2024 to qualify for the NSW 2024 GC Champion of Champions on behalf of Nelson Bay.
The competition was played Friday 29 November to Sunday 1 December at Tempe, Croquet NSW headquarters.
13 clubs were represented: Canberra, Chatswood, Coogee, Cooks River, Coutts Crossing, Maitland, Marrickville, Newcastle NP, Queanbeyan, Port Macquarie, Royal Sydney Golf Club, Sutherland and Wagga Wagga.
The 13 players played a qualifying round-robin block of 13-point games with a 1-hour time limit,
the top 6 qualifying for the knockout play-offs.
Pamela won 10 of 12 games to finish 2nd in the qualifying block to Derek Bull (Newcastle National Park) also with 10 wins but a slightly better hoop difference +28 to +22.
Finishing 1st and 2nd meant they moved straight to the best-of-three semi-finals. Derek beat Peter Freer (Canberra) 7-6 7-4 and Pamela beat Darren McLoughlin (Wagga Wagga)
7-3 7-3 before Pamela beat Derek 7-6 4-7 7-5 in the final.
A great result for Pamela, winning the Champion of Champions for the 2nd year running.
Peter Gordon was one of 10 players contesting the Ricochet Handicap Singles State Championship played at Toronto Croquet Club Saturday 23 – Monday 25 November 2024.
The competition was played in
q Pamela Barnwell, NSW Champion of Champions.
top six after a decisive one day victory over the Club Charlestown Bin Chickens at Tomaree Sports Complex.
A superb 65 not out by number four Bradley Thomson and stylish knocks by young gun Hunter Chappell (36) and father Simon Chappell (27) helped the Makos register 7-165 in the 35 overs per side encounter.
Thomson was in solid touch, cracking two sixes and eight boundaries.
In reply, Charlestown were bundled out for 103 with number five Colin Ward top scoring with 39 runs in an innings that featured eight boundaries.
two blocks of 5 players, 26-point games with a 2-hour time limit. Peter topped his block with 3 wins from 4 games, just ahead of Ken Green (Maitland) on hoop difference (+37 to +30). The top 2 from each block played a best-ofthree semi-final and final. Peter lost to David Scott (Ballina Cherry Street) 12-15 8-21 before losing to Maurice Aplin (Orange City) 2012 15-17 14-17 to finish 4th in the State Championship. Ken Green won the Championship beating David Scott 18-11 14-13 in the final.
q Peter Gordon, 4th NSW Ricochet Handicap Championship.
A Christmas wish list
DEAR News Of The Area,
REMEMBER as a child, making a list of presents you wanted for Christmas?
Or maybe your children or grandchildren are in the process of making such a list now.
As adults, we could make a Christmas wish list too – naming ways to make our society kinder, fairer, more joyous.
Reducing domestic violence should be on the list – violence against women is an epidemic.
Considering that more than one third of Australian marriages end in divorce (44 percent based on ABS figures of 2,275,690 marriages and 994,918 divorces between 2003 and 2022), providing effective pre-marital counselling may help keep families together - especially counselling young men on how to truly love a woman.
This should also be for de facto couples, whose failure rate is much higher (ABC Fact Check 2014).
Related to this is homelessness, especially of single mothers from broken relationships, and of older women too. Safe refuges and lowcost housing are essential.
We all want peace, but in our world, conflict abounds - Ukraine and the Middle East are horrifying war zones.
And there are plenty of potential conflicts too, not least between China and Taiwan.
Dorin’s Draws By Paul DORIN
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
MY husband's hearing is getting progressively worse and yet he refuses to get hearing aids fitted. How can I encourage him to do so?
Rowena K
Dear Rowena,
Truly mind boggling. We have one friend who speaks in a low tone that he can hear with absolute clarity.
Since we are lucky to see this friend twice a year, I'm not sure what help this is.
“I can hear Linda perfectly,” he tells me (often).
Who can fix these things? Can the government stop domestic violence?
The root cause is much deeper.
Our society has turned away from God.
The message of Christmas is that God so cared about us that he sent his son Jesus Christ to save us.
What if Australia turned back to God?
Our list could include poverty, racism, online bullying, sexualisation of our children, on-line pornography, child-abuse, unwanted babies and destruction of our natural environment.
The Big Screen
By Lindsay HALL
TO avoid filling a whole page with the veritable avalanche of films being released, this week we present “Cinema in a Sentence”.
Piece By Piece is a biopic of superstar singer/songwriter Pharell Williams featuring interviews with Gwen Stefani, Kendrick Lamar, Timbaland, Justin Timberlake, Busta Rhymes, Jay-Z, and Snoop Dogg… entirely animated - in LEGO.
Bad Genius is a remake of the 2017 Thai film of the same name, based on the true story of a promising scholarship student at a prestigious prep school who develops a system to help her wealthy peers cheat on exams for a fee.
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens Dragon Boat Club has jagged a joint venture with Central Coast Sea Dragons for major interstate competition regattas.
The partnership enabled both clubs to compete at the recent Pan Pacific Masters Games on the Gold Coast under the moniker of Port Central - Two Tribes.
A strong contingent of 42 paddlers across both clubs, including sixteen from Port Stephens, lined up for the prestigious dragon boating event staged at Lake Orr on Varsity Lakes.
The team competed in both the 40yrs plus and 55yrs plus categories and capped a successful campaign by claiming medals in elite company.
Port Central clinched a silver medal in the 40yrs plus Open 200 metres with local paddlers Karyn Price, Brendan Jones, Jodie Blake, Shane Ford and Kate Stenhouse producing the goods in a stout-hearted performance.
Just as impressive was the bronze medalwinning heroics by the Port Central paddlers in the 55yrs plus Open 500m final.
These included water warriors such as Janine Noonan, Ali Parker, Sandra Lyons, Judy Nisbet, Troy Vingerhoed, Cliff Quinlivan, Kerry Agland, David Truswell, Peter Mullen and Stephen Thomas.
Events for each age group consisted of Open 20s (full boat), Mixed 20s (full boat) and
Heir to the action schlock throne Frank Grillo stars in action/horror schlock Werewolves, where he prepares to defend his family on a night when half the world’s population are going to turn into… you probably figured it out.
Cate Blanchett, Charles Dance, Roy Dupuis, Denis Ménochet, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Rolando Ravello, Takehiro Hira, Zlatko Burić, and Alicia Vikander star alongside a giant brain as the abandoned G7 World Leaders fighting to survive an absurd apocalypse in Rumours
From the foreign film market comes My Favourite Cake, a tale about an elderly Iranian widow who finds love again but must contend with the
With Christ as our foundation, maybe less women would suffer domestic violence, and maybe less people would be homeless too.
We can’t post our Christmas wishlist to Santa, but even better - we could send it to our Heavenly Father, aka God, through our prayers.
Regards, Ross FERRIER, Fingal Bay.
The Bible says that those who truly believe in Christ would become new men and women, loving their neighbours, forgiving enemies, and their sins forgiven.
reality of living in a country where she does not have the freedom she desires.
Solo Levelling – ReAwakening is a feature film continuation of a Korean animated series that focuses on a monster-fighting warrior who seems to actually be part of a computer gamepossibly.
Out from France is Out of Season, a romantic comedy about two middleaged creatives who attempt to reignite a romance they both abandoned decades ago.
Finally comes Ghost Cat Anzu, an animated feature from Japan that adapts a comic series about an anthropomorphic cat who meets a young girl and attempts to make her life better.
Medals for Port Stephens paddlers
Women’s 10s (only ten paddlers in a large boat).
Thursday consisted of all 500m distance races; Friday was 200m distance races and Saturday was a 4.8km around the island race with some team members completing the course two or three times.
Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club
president Karyn Price told News Of The Area that the Pan Pacific Masters regatta was a “fascinating experience.”
“The team held four joint training sessions in the months leading into the event and also attended a regional regatta together in Taree.
I HEAR you. A hearing specialist said to me recently that people don't get hearing aids for themselves, they get them for family members who have contended for years with the television volume at an unbearable level, the constant need to repeat every sentence five times, and the sometimes hilarious but often frustrating situations when those hard of hearing have misheard what you are trying to say.
Tolstoy said, historians are like deaf people who go on answering questions that no one has asked them.
I've never thought of my husband as an historian, but he comes out with all sorts of gems due to being deaf in one ear (the other ear isn't doing so well either).
Last night I said, “Would you like a glass of wine or is it for a special occasion?”
He thought I said “broccoli”.
Out of the entire sentence, that was the only word he heard.
“Bully for Linda,” I reply, which he probably mishears as “put it on Tinder”.
There is, I think, a bit of vanity involved with hearing aids, but they are now so discreet that no one except the wearer would know they are there. Even with a hearing aid, there can be issues. My dad has hearing aids, but it is amazing how many times he still can't hear, because he doesn't turn them on.
He tells me he's trying to conserve the batteries. I think conserving our sanity is more important. If your husband is being as stubborn as a hearingimpaired mule, perhaps show him how frustrating it is by wearing noisecancelling headphones for a few days.
When his questions fall (literally) on deaf ears, he may feel compelled to act.
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Earthquake risk? Wrong!
DEAR News Of The Area,
AS much as I believe in freedom of speech I was really taken aback by the letter from a
Mr K Higgs in Thursday’s 21 November issue of the News Of The Area.
The gentleman's letter was full of falsehoods and showed his total lack of knowledge and ignorance on how a modern nuclear reactor works, not to mention the safety systems they employ.
Just one of his many wrong statements intimated that a magnitude 4.1
“We finished third in the Women’s 20s and third in the Open 20s and competed together in a Dragon Boat NSW (DBNSW) event at the Sydney International Regatta Centre.”
If you are interested in trying dragon boating, contact the Port Stephens Dragon Boat Club via Facebook or email portstephensdragons@gmail. com.
earthquake would result in an “uncontrolled power outage” which would lead to a “lossof-coolant incident affecting the highly radioactive nuclear reactor core”.
Modern reactors are independently powered by onsite generators, they are not connected to the general grid, they generate their own power by whatever means. Please sir do a little reading and research otherwise you risk making a fool of yourself.
Yours sincerely, Robert HARDING, Boat Harbour.
The club conducts training sessions on Tuesday (daylight saving only) and Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings with a second session on Saturday morning for social paddling. The social paddling is for those who prefer a less physically intense workout, All are welcome at any session.
q The medal-winning Port Stephens paddlers (l-r) Brendan Jones, Peter Mullen, Karyn Price, Kate Stenhouse, Kerry Agland, Cliff Quinlivan, Sandra Lyons and Jodie Blake. Absent: Shane Ford, Janine Noonan, Ali Parker, Judy Nisbet, Troy Vingerhoed, David Truswell and Stephen Thomas.
SPORT
READING by Lynne Miles: Isaiah 7:4 "Therefore, the Lord Himself will give you a sign. The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a Son and will call Him Immanuel." (Immanuel means God with us.)
SPORT Futsal honour for coach Punshon
By Chris KARAS
RESPECTED Nelson Bay Football Club Coaching Director Steve Punshon, spent much of his life shaping the careers of budding soccer players in the United Kingdom.
Since emigrating “down under”, the astute Englishman has proved to be a coach to be reckoned with in the Port Stephens region, with Nelson Bay FC.
Whether it be in the community inter-district arena or five per side indoor Futsal format, the experienced Punshon has fostered a host of talent in the junior and senior ranks.
Officials have recognised his ability to educate footballers of all ages by appointing him coach of the Northern NSW boys Under-16 squad to compete at Football Australia’s National Futsal
Championships in Melbourne next month.
It is a huge honour for the accomplished mentor, who is an accredited European Futsal UEFA B Licence coach.
Steve is connected with Nelson Bay Futsal, which hosts a ten week summer competition at Nelson Bay PCYC, enabling junior and senior players from across Port Stephens the opportunity to participate in the official FIFA format of the indoor five v five game.
Competition organiser and Futsal fanatic Nat Vogtmann has brought Futsal to the Bay.
Nelson Bay Futsal currently hosts sixteen fixtures each Saturday with the prominent Punshon supporting operations and refereeing on each match day.
This year’s series culminates in a Futsal finals weekend over 14-15
December.
Participating in local events has allowed local players and coaches the opportunity to trial for the upcoming State Futsal Championships.
This is a big move for Northern NSW Football (NNSWF), which recently announced the return of Futsal to the NNSWF player, coach and match official talent pathways.
Punshon told News Of The Area that NNSWF “has renewed their focus to growing and supporting Futsal in the region as well as streamlining the pathway between grassroots and elite competitions.”
“The national tournament will welcome the best Futsal players from across Australia to compete and showcase their talent on the big stage.
“This is the official pathway to the Australian
national set-up.”
Outstanding Nelson Bay Futsal competition players Charli Vogtmann and Annika Driscoll will proudly represent Northern NSW in the Under-15 Girls squad with Punshon signing up as Head Coach of the Under-16 Boys.
"It has been a long absence from the national Futsal stage at state level, but the players and coaching staff are relishing the prospect of testing themselves against the best the nation has to offer.
“I am delighted to represent Nelson Bay as one of four head coaches picked from across the State working under the tutelage of NNSW Futsal Development Manager and former Solomon Islands national head coach Damon Shaw.
“This is a massive
opportunity for Charli and Anni to showcase their talent at a national level and enjoy the experience.”
NNSWF will send Under14s and Under-16s boys teams
as well as Under-15s and Under-17s girls squads to the tournament to be staged from 8-12 January at Melbourne Sports Centres in Parkville.
Record six Nelson Bay teams in rugby sevens finals
By Chris KARAS
NELSON Bay Junior Rugby Club will field a record six teams in this Friday’s (6 December) Hunter Spring Rugby Sevens finals at Ernie Calland Fields in Gateshead.
The Gropers topped their group in both the Under-17 Boys and Under-13 Girls divisions and will be joined by the club’s two Under-15
Girls sides, Under 15 Boys combination, and the Under-13 Boys outfit.
It is the highest number of Nelson Bay teams to qualify for the finals since the competition’s inception, with the Under-15 Boys team posting exhilarating victories over the top two sides to snatch a top four berth.
An ecstatic Nelson Bay club secretary Matthew
Findlay told News Of The Area that the 2024 Junior Sevens series had proved “a resounding success.”
“Sevens rugby is thriving in the Port Stephens region and we can vouch for that after the club registered a record 110 players for this campaign,” he said.
“To have six teams featured in the finals is a huge achievement with
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Gary WATT
RESULTS from a stableford competition played at Tanilba Bay GC on Monday 25th November with 36 players.
Nett Winner : Fred Rimoni, 41pts.
Nett Runner Up : Michael Moussa, 37pts.
Bonus Point Winner : Bob McKeand, 40pts.
Bonus Point Runner Up :
Peter Toth, 39pts. Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole : Div 1 : Lester Lake. Div 2 : Jim Gill. Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole, : Div 1 : John Clayton. Div 2 : Peter Martyn. Drive & Chip, 7th Hole, Div 1 : Michael Moussa, (birdie) Div 2 : Jim Gill. Drive & Chip, 18th Hole, Div 1 : Fred Rimoni. Div 2 : Dave Hurley.
Ball Winners : Peter Martyn 39pts, Ian Dean 38pts, Dave Hurley 38pts, Jim Gill 38pts, Lester Lake 37pts, Danny Clark 36pts, Ralph Brown 36pts, Kel Dorney 35pts, Gary Watt 34pts and Graham Woolley 34pts. Lucky Door Prize Winner : Ray Stubbs.
encouraging signs for the future.”
Nelson Bay’s crack Under-17 Boys squad extended their unbeaten streak with strong performances by Kye Nichol, Darcy Lawson, Billy Leung, Preston Scully and Bastiaan Osborne-Zorbas in final round action last Friday night at Tomaree Sports Complex.
They finished the series with twelve wins from as many games on 57 points, with skipper Nash Campbell and Osborne-Zorbas the standouts in a mighty team effort.
The club’s talented Under-13 Boys line-ups stood tall.
Nelson Bay Whites rolled Merewether 32-19 and Maitland 17-5 with Logan Jarvis proving a workhorse around the rucks to engineer both victories.
Jarvis created opportunities with his strong running as the Whites backline trio of Jaylan Nettle, Jack Costello and Isaac Seehusen capitalised, along with Rhys Fisher.
Nelson Bay Under-13 Blacks blitzed the previously undefeated Hamilton Hawks Blue team by 31 points.
Holding the Hawks scoreless, the Gropers’ rugged defence proved a highlight.
Strong running from Leon Calder, Elvis Nathan and Ollie Hoffman made for some great entertainment with the Blacks’ superior team work securing victory.
The second game of the night resulted in a resounding 50 points plus victory for the Gropers for the first time this spring competition.
Halves Clancy Buckley and Baelin Scully led the way while big forwards Costa Lazarou, Axel Kelman and Ryder Grogan were dominant in the middle.
Both Nelson Bay Under-13 Girls sides also posted wins.
Standouts were Rahf Kareem, Narlu Jackson and eleven-year-old Cleo Kerapa.
Nelson Bay’s courageous Under-15 Boys squad pulled off superb wins over title favourites Wanderers (26-24) and second ranked Southern Beaches (12-10) to book a finals spot.
Fourteen-year-old Harrison Stone, Levi Findlay,
Muree Golf Results
By Lee RANKIN
SATURDAY 23rd Nov.
2BBB Brandon Reed/ Oliver Stuart-Bennett49
Pro Pin Mark Taylor Wednesday 27th Nov.
Medley Stableford. A Grade
Kelvin Daniel 39
Jon Martin 37 3. Brian Marsh 36
Marc Newman 36C/B
John Kelly 36
David Clark 35
2BBBJon Martin/ Raymond Winsor 45
Pro Pin Steven Shearer
Kai Morris-Maher and Abdul Kareem notched tries for the Gropers with Max Peachey, Rhyder Pirini and Lachlan Dunning potting conversions. It followed the team’s 24all draw with Medowie the previous week.
Outstanding play by local Medowie product Xavier Powell proved a feature. Powell, who plays 15s at Nelson Bay, put in a top performance against winter season teammates such as Dunning and Zac Martin. Medowie Under-15s finished a creditable sixth after trouncing Newcastle West Wildcats 34-0.
Nelson Bay’s Under-15 girls squads impressed with strong performances from Isla Forster, Charli Vogtmann, Inez Low, Daisy Clark, Kobi Dunn and Milly Cashen. Findlay stated that this year’s success has come off the back of the highest-ever level of participation in the fast paced rugby format with 110 players across five age groups.
Having a team represented in all age groups the club entered, is also a record.
q Nelson Bay FC Coaching Director Steve Punshon will coach the Northern NSW Boys U16 squad at the 2025 national championships.
q The U13 girls are among six Nelson Bay junior teams in the Spring Sevens Rugby finals at Gateshead.
Stinker’s History: Arthur on the island
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
IN the history of the Outer Light Arthur Murdoch has become somewhat of a legendary character.
His book "Sheer Grit" is an outstanding record of his achievements, lifestyle and experiences written in a style which is a reflection of the man - uncomplicated, informative and fascinating.
I have read the book on more than one occasion and each time more of the jigsaw pieces, that make up the final picture of life in the time, fall into place.
A former miner from Kurri Kurri and a more than capable boxer, Arthur's history and pathway to the Outer Light is a fascinating journey.
Reading media reports of the running aground of the 518 ton steamship Pappinbarra off Fingal Island in 1929, Arthur noted that there was continual mention of a small bay, near the wreck, referred to as Shelley.
Out of work and searching for some means of support in tough times, Arthur knew that there was money to be made shovelling shell grit.
He was already aware that bagging shell grit was an industry of the times, particularly during the Depression years when a steady but meagre income could be made by shovelling crushed shell into bags to sell to chicken sheds.
Arthur's prior knowledge of the value of shell grit was
gathered during a previous experience in Sydney shovelling shell grit in the Port Hacking River.
Returning to his home in Newcastle and looking out for any work available he started searching for payable quantities of shell grit deposits on the coast nearer to home.
During the Depression he noted that many "turned to poultry farming to keep the wolf from the door”.
“Then, poor as they were, they still had to buy shell grit or their eggs would be too
fragile to sell."
Bagging shell grit was considered a "sure thing" because, Depression or no Depression, chooks need shell grit.
Based on what he had learned in Port Hacking he assumed that "Shelley" may be a site where shell grit could be found.
After having ridden his bicycle from Newcastle, Arthur arrived on Fingal Island where he searched for the wreck of the Pappinbarra and discovered, to his delight, an ample supply of shell
This
was referred to by the
as
or in later years - the Grit Hole.
On 16 September 1930 Arthur and his brother Bill arrived at Nelson Bay by hired lorry with all the gear necessary to make a start digging grit.
Stinker’s Fishin’: Muddies dancing
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
OVER the years I have come face to face with many mudcrabs. From the warm, weedy, mangrove waters of the Ukerebah Passage off the Tweed River, to the muddy creeks in Port Stephens.
Mud crabs, regardless of where they come from,
q This muddy weighed about 2.8kg. It is hard to believe that mud crabs in Port Stephens have been weighed at over 4kg.
have one thing in common.
They are all cranky!
I don’t know why muddies have developed such an antisocial attitude.
If you are in the presence of a mud crab, be aware of the mighty claws that will immediately be stretched wide apart and then clatter closed, if you go too close.
There isn’t great joy in being a muddy - being so angry all the time must be difficult.
I suppose when you consider it, they have very little reason not to be cranky.
There really isn’t a great deal for a mud crab to do from sunrise to sunset.
Spending all day,
every day, in the soft mud searching for scraps of food or digging deep down building an underground tunnel to call home, all the time avoiding the crab traps set throughout the system by commercial and recreational fishers who are planning to introduce the crab to the cooking pot! Their daily diet is far from exciting, consisting
Arthur was fortunate, on the wharf in Nelson Bay, to have met with local fisherman Jack Lund.
of worms, oysters, mussels and decaying vegetation.
Looking more closely you will find that mud crabs are far more interesting than you first thought.
Ranging from Shark Bay in Western Australia across the Northern Territory, down into Queensland and as far south in NSW as the Bega River - if you can find a mangrove tree you will probably find a mud crab.
Rarely will you find a female mud in the estuary
Jack was very knowledgeable of local conditions and had a launch which was soon loaded with bags, shovels and camping gear and within an hour Arthur was on his way to his new home.
crab carrying eggs. The reason is that part of their breeding cycle is completed way out at sea.
Hard to believe that Port Stephens mud crabs swim out through the heads and have been found in underwater caves some 80 metres underwater.
In some parts of the world female muddies have been reported as travelling 50 kilometres offshore sinking to a depth of 300 metres.
grit in the small secluded bay mentioned in the media reports.
bay
fishermen
Shelley
q Arthur Murdoch spent the years 1930-1947 on Fingal Island.
q Nothing has changed in Shelley since this photograph was taken in 1929.
q A young Arthur Murdoch (in singlet) shovelling shell grit with Jack Lund.
Another successful year for Run/Swim
FROM Page 28
As the morning’s outside air temperature climbed towards a sticky 30 degrees, swim events were simultaneously taking place in perfect calm water conditions at Shoal Bay, where 5km, 2.5km, 1km and 500m events were on offer.
Local surf life saving club members helped keep the swimmers safe in the water, while the runners were similarly looked after by an army of volunteers.
They helped with marshalling and provided water and aid at stations along the route.
At both the swim and running hubs, tents provided post race massages and much needed sustenance for the exhausted but elated athletes.
Results were still being collated at the submission of this report, but can be found by searching The Swim / The Run Port Stephens 2024 (past events) at results.raceroster.com.
q Volunteers provided refreshments at crucial race points.
q Athletes completing the 1km swim event.
q Birubi SLSC volunteers kept the swimmers safe.
q Swim events were held in perfect conditions.
q Young volunteers get the finishers’ medals ready.
q Marathoners enjoy the crowd’s encouragement.
q They’re off! Half Marathon runners get going.
SUDOKU
Public Notices
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment
Input sought from Local Aboriginal Groups or Individuals.
East Coast Heritage and Archaeology is proposing to undertake an Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment for a planning proposal at 31-33 Ferodale Rd Medowie NSW 2318.
As such, ECHA is required to establish an Aboriginal Stakeholder register.
Local Aboriginal groups or individuals who wish to be consulted on the Aboriginal heritage investigation are invited to register their interest in writing, outlining skill and experience in cultural knowledge and ability to communicate results of assessments to the wider Aboriginal community.
Groups and individuals listed on the Register will then be invited to contribute to and comment on the Cultural Heritage Assessment methodology to be undertaken and on the draft final report.
Closing date for registration of interest: 20/12/24
To register your interest, please contact: Suzanne at info@echa.com.au
Garage Sale
LOTS of books, DVDs bric a brac, household goods. SAT 14/12 8am start. Moving sale. 90 Tanilba Ave Tanilba Bay
BOOKS, suit H/School or Uni. student to read and accept messages therein for a better future. 4982 9942 F171024
GUITAR & Bass tuition Theory muscianship
Graduate of Aust Institute of Music Course details www.guitarstudio.net.au Salamander Bay 4984 4731 e051224 FREE clean fill, pool excavation in thornton, must be within 5km radius for delivery. Ph 0476 789 721
QUEEN Bed base Timber bedhead. 2 x bedside chests. Dressing table. New queen bed mattress. $500ono 0432 058 522 Items for Sale
Classifieds 4981 8882 ads@ newsofthearea. com.au
ELEGANT wrought iron table with glass top and 5 chairs
Please call for photos pickup Thornton $100. 0412783707
FILING Cabinet, 3 drawers,
31 dinner plates & 11 bowls. Buy all together or separate. $60. 0493
FISH fern for ponds or aquariums, from $5 0466 880 639
and Silver Top prices for scrap and coins paid by local dealer. SHIMANO fishing reels for sale. Phone for details. 0419985601
HAIRDYE, ash blonde $5 each. 0493 777 707
HEATERS, electric, from $10, free local delivery 49829225
much more. e061224 KAYAKS x 2. Riot Enduro. 14ft Kayak + paddles. In good cond $600 each or $1000 pair 0458 288 159.
seat leather sofa $100. Nelson Bay 0410 492 885 COFFEE table and wall unit, walnut stain $40 each or both for $50. 0423 545 331
HOMEMAKER mini blender with 4 cups and lids, new. $12. Ph 4982 8628
CHILDREN’S & baby’s clothes, new, winter & summer, make an offer 0493 777 707
joggers, new size 10, worth $40 will sell for $10. 0493
MUSIC CD’s, 50s to 90s hard to finds & rarities Large quantity. $100 4966
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
LUCA
TEN, 7.30pm
This adorable addition from Pixar about the power of friendship is sure to become a family favourite. Luca (voice of Jacob Tremblay) is a sea monster with the ability to transform into a human on land. When he meets fellow monster Alberto (Jack Dylan Grazer), who lives on the surface, Luca is emboldened to step out of the water and into the bright Italian city of Portorosso. As the pair explore the world together, they discover a love of pasta, cycling and best of all: Vespas! Set on the Italian Riviera, it’s a sumptuous visual feast that will draw viewers in to its magical world.
FRIDAY,
December 6
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Back Roads. (R) 10.25 I Was Actually There. (PG, R)
MONDAY
FIVE BEDROOMS
TEN, 9.30pm
Life, love and work are becoming more complicated than ever for the close-knit co-owners as this stellar Aussie dramedy inches closer to its conclusion. Doctor Harry (Roy Joseph) is usually the voice of reason for his housemates, but in “Seventy-Two Hours” he finds himself in need of their help after an indiscretion comes to light. Lawyer Liz (Kat Stewart) jumps in with a solution, but it requires both a little “creative” testimony from Anton (Matthew Backer) and keeping Harry’s mum Manju (Kumud Merani) at arm’s length. Meanwhile, Ben (Stephen Peacocke) and Heather (Doris Younane) intervene when Ainsley (Katie Robertson, pictured) hurts Simmo’s (Johnny Carr) feelings.
TUESDAY CHRISTMAS WITH AUSTRALIAN WOMEN’S WEEKLY
TEN, 7.30pm
Get set to “sleigh” this Christmas with a little help from The ’s Sarah Harris (pictured) and the talented team at The Australian Women’s Weekly
An annual guide to surviving the silly season in style, there’s a wealth of tips on food, fashion and creating Yuletide magic in your own home. Narelda Jacobs catches up with Olympic gold medallist Noemie Fox and her family ahead of the holidays, while The Weekly’s food director Fran Abdallaoui is in fine company with Warren Mendes, Kirsten Tibballs and MasterChef faves Poh Ling Yeow, Julie Goodwin and Khanh Ong in the kitchen, with tasty tricks and hacks galore.
2.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
Rage. (PG)
ABC FAMILY (22)
R) 10.05 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGl, R) 11.00 World’s Greatest Sporting Arenas. 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Exploring Northern Ireland. (PGl, R) 3.10 Dishing It Up. (PGls, R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The Supervet. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 News. 12.00 MOVIE: Fatal Frenemies. (2021, Mav, R) 2.00 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Afternoon session. 5.00 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 5.40 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Every Family Has A Secret. (Ma, R) 8.30 Nicole Kidman, Eyes Wide Open. (Malns, R) 9.35 Kennedy. 10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Elvira. (PGa)
12.30 The Wall: The Orchard. (Malsv, R)
2.05 Employable Me (UK) (PGal, R)
3.10 Love Your Home And Garden With Alan Titchmarsh. (PGa, R)
4.05 Peer To Peer. (R)
4.35 Bamay. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars: Battle Of The Stars. 9.55 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Late afternoon session.
7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far in the Second Test Match between Australia and India.
8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 1. Evening session.
10.30 The Boy From Macksville. (Ml) Celebrates the career of Phillip Hughes. 12.00 GetOn Extra.
12.30 Taken. (Mav, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. (Return) Hosted by Shelley Craft.
8.30 MOVIE: The Accountant. (2016, MA15+alv, R) A maths genius who works as an accountant for high-rolling criminals is pursued by authorities. Ben Affleck, Anna Kendrick.
11.00 MOVIE: Triple 9. (2016, MA15+lv, R)
1.00 Our State On A Plate. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Postcards Summer. (PG, R)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.
7.30 MOVIE: Luca. (2021, G) On the Italian Riviera, a young boy experiences an unforgettable summer with a new best friend. Jacob Tremblay, Jack Dylan Grazer. 9.30 Matlock. (PGad, R) A big class-action case against the prison system hits close to home. Matty plays matchmaker with Sarah and a girl from IT. 10.30 10’s Late News. 10.55 The Project. (R) 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping.
Tilligerry Social Golf Club
29/11/24
OUTRIGHT winners. Ed Martin & John McDonald 42 c/b Runners up. Grahame Glover & Kel Dorney. 42 Ball winners.
Sean Brennan &. Ed Martin. 41 Peter Couvaras & Wendy Couvaras. 41 Bill McMaster & Ron Dews. 40 Bob West & Chris Cody. 40 Ntp4th.
A. Matt Baldwin. B. Ed Martin D&C7th.
A. John McDonald. B. Bob west D&C18th. A. Matt Baldwin.
6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie. 2.30 Bewitched. 3.00 The Golden Girls. 3.30 The Nanny. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: The Lord Of The Rings: The Fellowship Of The Ring. (2001, M) 11.05 MOVIE: A Walk Among The Tombstones. (2014, MA15+) 1.10am
B. Sean Brennan Money hole. A. John McDonald. B. Grahame Glover Lucky number 12. Bill McMaster There were 15 starters. Congratulations to all the winners. Next game 6/12/24. Single Stableford.
Advertising within the News Of The Area reaches your local customers. Connect with them from the next edition. Print media has never been as affordable for your business. (02) 4981 8882 ads@newsofthearea.com.au
SATURDAY, December 7
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 All Creatures Great And Small. (PG, R) 1.15 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. (Ml, R) 1.55 Question Everything. (R) 2.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.15 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.45 Solar System With Brian Cox. (R) 4.45 Headliners. (PG, R) 5.35 Landline. (Final, R)
(Mlv, R) 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Kiri And Lou. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.05 Interstellar Ella. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Ben And Holly. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 The Crystal Maze. 8.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.30 Speechless. 9.50 Officially Amazing. 10.20 Teen Titans Go! 10.40 Late Programs.
12.00 WorldWatch. 1.55 Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix 6. H’lights. 4.25 The Maestro & The European Pop Orchestra. (Premiere) 5.35 Weeks Of War. (PGav, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Secrets Of The Royal Palaces. 8.25 The Jury: Death On The Staircase. (M, R) 9.30 The Great House Revival. 10.30 So Long, Marianne. (Mals)
11.25 Paris Paris. (PGl, R)
11.55 All Those Things We Never Said. (Ms, R)
2.20 Employable Me (UK) (PGa, R) 3.25 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R)
4.20 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Morning Programs. 12.00 Horse Racing. Country Classic Day, Ballarat Cup and Gateway Raceday. 2.00 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Afternoon session. 5.00 Test Cricket: The Lunch Break. 5.40 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Late afternoon session.
7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day of play so far in the Second Test Match between Australia and India. 8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 2. Evening session. 10.30 Heroes And Legends: Hall Of Fame. (PGl) The Sport Australia Hall of Fame special.
12.00 Taken. (Mav, R)
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R) 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz. 10.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 Harry’s Practice. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Noon Escape To The Country.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 MOVIE: Bohemian Rhapsody. (2018, Ml, R) Charts the life of Freddie Mercury. Rami Malek, Lucy Boynton.
10.20 My Life As A Rolling Stone: Keith Richards. (Madl, R)
11.35 MOVIE: Truth. (2015, Ml, R) Cate Blanchett.
1.35 Drive Safer. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 Bondi Rescue. (PGlm, R) A surfer suffers a serious fin chop. Will attempts to run for 48 hours with no sleep. 7.00 Soccer. Women’s international friendly. Australia v Chinese Taipei. 10.15 MOVIE: Kate & Leopold. (2001, PGhls, R) A New York City advertising executive meets a man who has been mysteriously transported from the 19th century. Meg Ryan, Hugh Jackman. 12.45 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) A head-on collision leaves a driver trapped. 1.45 Ambulance UK. (Ml, R) An 81-yearold falls off his mobility scooter.
6am Morning
SUNDAY, December 8
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Nigella’s Cook, Eat, Repeat: Christmas Special. (R) 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.45 Nigella’s Christmas Kitchen. (R) 3.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 4.00 Restoration Australia. (Final) 5.00
6.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs: Where Are They Now.
8.00 Miniseries: Douglas Is Cancelled. (Ml) 8.40 Love Me. (Ml) 9.25 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (Mals, R)
12.40 New Leash On Life. (R) 1.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.05 Australia Remastered: Forces Of Nature. (R)
4.00 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.00 Pilgrimage: The Road Through North Wales. (PG, R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 10.00 MOVIE: Thomas And Friends: The Mystery Of Lookout Mountain. (2022) 10.55 Children’s Programs. 6.40pm Pfffirates. 6.55 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 7.00 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.15 Bluey Minisodes. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 MOVIE: Get Santa. (2014, PG) 9.10 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.55 Speechless. 10.15 Doctor Who. 11.00 Late Programs.
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00
Eco Show. (R) 10.00
Matches. 11.30
With Julia Bradbury. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 12.30
Washington Week. 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Cycling. Cape to Cape MTB. 4.00 Wonders Of Scotland. (R) 4.25 The Maestro & The European Pop Orchestra. 5.35 Weeks Of War. (PGavw, R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Great Stink Of 1858. (PG) 9.20 Jonathan Ross’ Myths And Legends. (PGa, R)
10.15 Curse Of The Ancients. (PG, R) 11.10 Looby. (Mln, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera.
1.55pm Jeopardy! 4.00 WorldWatch. 4.30 PBS Washington Week. 4.55 Shane Smith Has Questions. 5.50 The Engineering That Built The World. 6.40 Mysteries From Above. 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 World’s Most Dangerous Airports. 9.35 WWE Legends. (Return) 11.10 Late Programs.
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Programs. 9.00 Young Girls Of Rochefort. (1967, PG, French) 11.20 Misery. (1990) 1.20pm Vampire Seeking Consenting Person. (2023, French) 3.00 The Man Who Invented Christmas. (2017, PG) 4.55 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 6.30 Barefoot In The Park. (1967, PG) 8.30 Living. (2022, PG) 10.25 Easy Love. (2019, MA15+, German) 12.10am Late Programs. 6am A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 7.35 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (2002) 9.20 Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 11.00 What’s Eating Gilbert Grape. (1993, PG) 1.10pm What We Did On Our Holiday. (2014, PG) 2.55 Living. (2022, PG) 4.50 Stolen Kisses. (1968, PG, French) 6.30 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012) 8.30 Aftersun. (2022, M) 10.25 La Jauria. (2022, M, Spanish) Midnight Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30
6.00 Morning Programs. 10.30 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 2. 2.00 Test Cricket: Pre-Game Show. 3.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 3. Afternoon session. 5.00 Test Cricket: The
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 3. Late afternoon session. 7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. 8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 3. Evening session. 10.30 7NEWS Spotlight. (M, R)
11.30 The Force: Behind The Line. (PG, R) 12.00 Miniseries: Patrick Melrose. (MA15+a, R) 1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Tsunami: 20 Years On. (PG) Presented by Ray Martin. 9.00 A Remarkable Place To Die. (Mlv) Anais investigates when a flamboyant pyrotechnician gets more bang for his buck than he expects.
11.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries. (Mv) A night market takes a twist.
1.00 Drive TV. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
Nine Perth Presents: Christmas In WA.
6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm MOVIE: Barbie Skipper And The Big Babysitting Adventure. (2023) 1.45 MOVIE: Pokémon: Volcanion And The Mechanical Marvel. (2016) 3.40 World Endurance Championship: Season Review. 4.45 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 5.45 MOVIE: Show Dogs. (2018, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix. (2007, M) 10.15 Late Programs. 6am Children’s Programs. 6.15 MOVIE: L.O.L. Surprise! Winter
MONDAY, December 9
6.00
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.50 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.20 Poh’s Kitchen. 9.45 Doctor Who. 10.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Pretty Woman: A Fairytale In Hollywood.
8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown.
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M)
10.05 Madame Tussauds: The Full Wax. (Mav, R)
11.05 SBS News. 11.35 Dead Mountain: The Dyatlov Pass Incident. (Mahlv) 1.25 Greatest Railway Journeys. (PG, R) 2.20 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 3.10 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (R) 4.05 Heritage Rescue. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The UnBelievable With Dan Aykroyd. 9.20 Misadventures Of Romesh. 10.20 Late Programs.
6am Morning
Programs. 7.00 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012) 9.00 Living. (2022, PG) 10.55 Barefoot In The Park. (1967, PG) 12.55pm Another World. (2021, M, French) 2.40 A Hard Day’s Night. (1964, PG) 4.20 Binti. (2019, PG, Dutch) 6.00 RBG. (2018, PG) 7.50
Aspromonte: Land Of The Forgotten. (2019, M, Italian) 9.30 Margrete: Queen Of The North. (2021, MA15+) 11.45 Late Programs.
TUESDAY, December 10
6.00
6.00
Believing In Australia. (PGa, R) 10.50 News. 11.05 The Business. (R) 11.20 The Kingdom: The World’s Most Powerful Prince. (Final, Ma, R) 12.20 Our Dementia Choir Sings Again. (Final, PG, R) 1.25 Grand Designs: The Streets. (R) 2.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 3.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Deadly 60. 8.50 Croc Watch With Steve Backshall. 9.35 Doctor Who. 10.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys.
8.30 Who Do You Think You Are?
9.40 Greatest Train Journeys From Above. (R)
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+asv)
12.55 Miniseries: Safe Home. (Mal, R)
2.50 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 3.40 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R)
4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
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6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Bamay.
Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 The UnXplained Mysteries Of The Universe. 9.20 Hoarders. 11.00 Two Weeks To Live. 11.30 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am RBG. Continued. (2018, PG) 6.50 Stolen Kisses. (1968, PG, French) 8.30 My Best Friend’s Wedding. (2016, PG, Mandarin) 10.15 La Jauria. (2022, M, Spanish) 11.50 Aftersun. (2022, M) 1.40pm The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012) 3.40 Leave No Trace. (2018, PG) 5.45 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 7.30 Waiting For Anya. (2020, M) 9.30 Corsage. (2022, M) 11.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 4. Late afternoon session.
7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day’s play.
8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 4. Evening session.
10.30 Murder In A Small Town. (Mav) Cassandra’s childhood friend investigates. 11.30 Armed And Dangerous: Stickups. (Mav, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RBT. (Mdl, R) 8.30 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators. (Mlv, R) 9.40 A Killer Makes A Call. (Mav) 10.40 Chicago Med. (MA15+amv)
11.30 First On Scene. (Mad) 11.55 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.50 GolfBarons.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 5. Late afternoon session. 7.40 Test Cricket: Tea Break. Takes a look at the day’s play. 8.00 Cricket. Second Test. Australia v India. Day 5. Evening session.
10.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG) 11.00 Highway Cops. (PGl) 11.30 Ambulance: Code Red. (Ma, R) 12.30 Satisfaction. (MA15+as, R) 1.30 Your Money & Your Life. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00
WEDNESDAY, December 11
6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Bitesize. (R) 9.20 For The Love
It Up. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.00 Austn Fashion Past, Present, Future. (PGln) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 IKEA: How Do They Really Do It? (Ml, R)
8.30 Pan Am: Rise And Fall Of An Aviation Icon. (PG, R)
3.45 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Octonauts. 6.05 Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Doctor Who. 9.50 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.15 Horrible Histories. 10.35 Late Programs.
VICELAND (31)
WorldWatch. 10.00 Bamay. 10.30 It’s Suppertime! Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Hudson & Rex. 2.10 Vegan Vigilantes. 2.25 Queer Sports. 3.20 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: Gremlins. (1984, M) 10.30 MOVIE: Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 12.40am Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am Leave No
Trace. Continued. (2018, PG) 7.55 Time Bandits. (1981, PG) 10.00 Aspromonte: Land Of The Forgotten. (2019, M, Italian) 11.45 20th Century Women. (2016, M) 1.55pm RBG. (2018, PG) 3.45 My Best Friend’s Wedding. (2016, PG, Mandarin) 5.25 The Bookshop. (2017, PG) 7.30 Thelma & Louise. (1991, M) 9.55 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 11.55 Emily. (2022, M) 2.20am Late Programs.
THURSDAY, December 12
6.00
(R) 3.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 4.15 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
11.00 The Business. (Final, R)
11.20 Grand Designs: The Streets. (PG, R) 12.05 Killing Eve. (MA15+v, R) 12.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.30 AI vs Human: The Creativity Experiment. (R) 4.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm Kangaroo Beach. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Paddington. 6.40 Pfffirates. 6.50 Ginger And The Vegesaurs. 6.55 Hey Duggee. 7.05 Andy And The Band. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 The Inbestigators. 7.50 Operation Ouch! 8.20 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.05 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.35 Doctor Who. 10.20 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00 Morning Programs. 9.20 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.20 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGadlv, R) 11.10 The Bridges That Built London. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.05 Such Was Life. (PG, R) 2.15 Lost For Words. (PG, R) 3.25 The Cook Up. (R) 3.55 Austn Fashion Past, Present, Future. (PGa) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG)
8.30 Gods Of Tennis. (Ml, R)
9.30 Miniseries: Steeltown Murders. (Mal)
10.40 SBS News. 11.10 DNA. (Return, MA15+a)
12.05 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Malv, R) 1.00 Miniseries: The Night Logan Woke Up. (MA15+ns, R) 2.00 Portillo’s Greatest Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 2.55 Employable Me (USA) (Ma, R) 3.45 Fantastical Factory Of Curious Craft. (PG, R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
VICELAND (31)
6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Bamay. 10.35 It’s Suppertime! 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Who Gets To Stay In Australia? 1.40 The Swiping Game. 2.00 Planet A. 2.50 Earthworks. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Joy Of Painting. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Holy Marvels With Dennis Quaid. 10.05 The Last Overland: Singapore To London. 11.55 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The
Bookshop. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.05 The Wild Duck. (1983, PG) 8.55 An Ideal Husband. (1999, PG) 10.45 Corsage. (2022, M) 12.50pm Waiting For Anya. (2020, M) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 The Young Victoria. (2009, PG) 5.25 I Capture The Castle. (2003, PG) 7.30 Risky Business. (1983, M) 9.25 The Lost King. (2022, M) 11.25 Dead Man Down. (2013, MA15+) 1.35am Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Sweet Navidad. (2021, PGa) 2.00 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 3. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Women’s One Day International Series. Australia v India. Game 3. 10.30 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. (Return) A deep dive into the world of cricket. 11.15 Unbelievable Moments
Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.
12.15 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (MA15+av) Harry investigates a spate of drownings.
3.00 TV Shop. (R) 3.30 World Aquatics Championships. Budapest 2024. Day 2. Finals. 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Contestants
in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize. 6.30 The Project. 7.30 Shark Tank. (Final, PGa) A mum pitches her solution to untangling kids’ hair. 8.40 NCIS. (Mv) 9.40
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6am Children’s Programs.
Gossip Girl. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 Love Island Australia. 10.00 MOVIE: National Lampoon’s Vacation. (1983, M) Midnight Seinfeld. 1.00 The Nanny. 2.00 Life After Lockup. 3.00 Bakugan. 3.30
6am TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Left Off The Map. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Left Off The Map. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am TBA. 6.30
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Great Getaways. (PG) 8.30 Emergency. (Mm) 9.30 A+E After Dark. (Mlm) 10.30 Casualty 24/7.
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9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
SPORT
Endurance challenge
By Simon EKINS
Nelson Bay was host to “The Run Port Stephens” on Sunday, while Shoal Bay staged its partner event