YOUR ONLY LOCALLY OWNED PORT STEPHENS NEWSPAPER
Where and how to vote early
By Sue STEPHENSON
PRE-POLL voting in the Port Stephens Council election opens on Saturday, 7 September.
There are only two places residents can cast an early vote.
One is the Raymond Terrace Community Church at 10 Richardson Road, Raymond Terrace.
It is fully wheelchair accessible.
The second pre-poll location is All Saints Anglican Church at 25 Church Street, Nelson Bay.
Assisted access may be required at this site as the path of travel can be dangerous and the ramp is not to standard.
With the exception of Sunday, both centres will be open at the following times.
• Monday to Wednesday: 8:30am - 5:30pm
• Thursday: 8:30am8:00pm
• Friday: 8:30am6:00pm
Telephone voting may be available to those unable to visit a polling centre while electoral officers can visit nursing and aged care homes if they are considered “Declared Facilities”.
There is no absentee voting in local government elections.
Anyone living away from their registered council area has until Monday, 9 September, to apply for a postal vote.
Completed ballot papers and postal vote certificates must then be received by the NSW Electoral Commission no later than 6pm, on 27 September.
Nine councillors and the Mayor are to be chosen from across three wards, East, Central and West.
Ward boundaries have changed and come into effect for the first time this
Residents close to the edge of the accompanying maps are advised to check the NSW Electoral Commission website by searching “Find my Electorate”.
Have Your Say
A full list of election day polling stations will appear in next week’s paper. In the meantime, further
at elections.nsw. gov.au/elections.
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 appropriateness. media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION UPDATE APPLICATIONS LODGED FROM 18/08/2024 TO 25/08/2024 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.
33
13A
137 Norfolk St 16-2024-412-1
8 William Cl 16-2020-558-2
36
South Esk Dr 16-2024-416-1
ROAD NAMING
SECTION 162 ROADS ACT 1993
Pursuant to section 162 Council proposes to name the road described below:
Proposed Names: Hancock Close
Locality: HEATHERBRAE Council Ref: PSC2022-01576-0015
Description: The new road “Hancock Close” will be accessed off Camfield Drive generally south west, in stage 4A of the Kinross Estate within Lot 619 DP 1297995.
Submissions should be received at Council within 28 days of the date of this notice by post or email property.services@portstephens.nsw.gov.au. For more information please contact Michelle McNeil on 4988 0283.
q The new boundaries for West, Central and East wards. Image: NSW Electoral Commission.
Port Stephens paddler aims to raise $20k for cancer support
FROM Page 1
preparation was one small way he could emulate the “daily challenge” being experienced by his mate.
Dave’s longest paddle to date was 30km (four hours), so it is sobering to envision traversing the Murray through Victoria from Yarrawonga to
Koondrook, particularly considering the unpredictability of the river.
Since commencing his training, Dave has lost 35 kilograms, all his hair and any chance of backing out.
Now two kayaks deep, Dave is “all in” in the pursuit of charity fundraising.
His endurance paddle
will raise funds for the Peace Of Mind Foundation (POMF), a nationwide not-for-profit organisation providing support to brain cancer patients and their families.
Aiming to raise $20,000, Dave hopes his journey will increase awareness of brain cancer in Port Stephens.
“Every dollar makes
a difference, especially behind closed doors where POMF makes its most crucial and important impact,” he said.
To learn more or to donate, visit https://celebration. peaceofmindfoundation. org.au/page/ DavidsMassiveMurray
Paddle
Follow Dave’s journey at www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=584377587.
Gold and bronze medals for Deguara at World Junior Athletics Championships
FROM Page 1
the World Junior Under 20 Athletics Championships in Peru last week when he helped Australia win the 4 x 400m Mixed Relay title in record fashion.
The reigning NSW 400m junior champion combined with rising Victorian sprint stars Jordan Gilbert, 2023 women’s Stawell Gift winner Bella Pasquali and Sophia Gregorevic to secure the nation’s first relay gold medal in 26 years –smashing the Australian and Oceania Under 20 record twice in the one day.
In an incredible feat, the gifted quartet sent shockwaves through the Peruvian capital of Lima when they clocked the third fastest time in history in 3:19.27 seconds to be crowned world champions.
Gilbert won the opening leg by more than one second with Pasquali and Deguara keeping the Australians on record pace with powerful contributions.
Anchor runner Gregorevic showed her class with a cracking
finish as the young Aussies claimed international glory - staving off challenges from silver medallists Poland and bronze recipients China.
Eighteen-year-old Jack’s jubilant parents Holly and Peter Deguara both witnessed the magic moment at the Estadio Atletico in Villa Deportiva Nacional.
“We are just so proud of Jack and what he has achieved with the relay team,” an elated Peter told News Of The Area.
“All the family are still in disbelief with the gold medal win at such a major international athletics event but are so in awe of him,” he exclaimed.
Jack added a bronze to his medal haul when he later teamed with Victorians Gilbert and Caleb Kilpatrick and Queenslander Jett Grundy to finish third in the 4 x 400m Men's Relay final on the last day of competition.
The quartet clocked an impressive time of 3:05.53 to lock in a podium spot.
It raised Australia’s tally to four medals – their
best ever haul at a World Junior Championship –and confirmed the squad’s status as the nation’s best crop of emerging young talent.
Jack, a product of Medowie Little Athletics, moved to the Maitland Senior Athletics Club at the age of seventeen.
His other major 2024 achievements include winning the NSW 400m junior sprint title and claiming a bronze medal in the Men's 400m final at the Australian Athletics Under 20 Championships in Adelaide earlier this year.
Emerging seventeenyear-old Queenslander Terrell Thorne won the national title in a personal best time of 46.80 seconds from Gilbert (47.08 PB) and Deguara (47.69).
Jack also anchored the NSW 4 x 400m Relay team that collected silver in the final.
He prepared for the World Championships by participating in training camps on the Gold Coast and spent two weeks in Peru to acclimatise.
It all paid dividends with the Medowie teenager now perched on top of the athletics world.
Investigation underway after crash
AN investigation is ongoing following a crash near Newcastle Airport last Wednesday.
Emergency services were called to Nelson Bay Road, Williamtown at about 4.35am following reports of a car fire.
Officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District attended the scene
and were told a vehicle had crashed into a utility pole before igniting. It is believed the driver of the vehicle left the scene prior to the arrival of police. As inquiries continue, anyone with information or dashcam footage is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
q Australia’s triumphant Mixed 4 x 400m Relay team comprising Stawell Gift winner Bella Pasquali, Jack Deguara, Sophia Gregorevic and Jordan Gilbert celebrate their gold medal win at the World Junior Athletics Championships in Peru.
Lindsay HALL 0430 048 398 lindsay@newsofthearea.com.au
Marian SAMPSON 0414 521 180 marian@newsofthearea.com.au
Chris KARAS 0400 819 153 chris@newsofthearea.com.au
Simon EKINS 0434 890 157 simon@newsofthearea.com.au
Jacie WHITFIELD 0411 556 079 jacie@newsofthearea.com.au
Doug CONNOR 0431 487 679 doug@newsofthearea.com.au
Tracey BENNETT 0484 263 558 tracey@newsofthearea.com.au
Shoal Bay access road an ‘urgent priority’
By Marian SAMPSON
THE Tomaree Headland and Heritage Group (THHG) are urgently calling for an additional access and egress road to Shoal Bay.
“This need has recently been accentuated by beach erosion episodes and subsidence of Shoal Bay Beach particularly during extreme weather conditions,” said THHG President Peter Clough.
“This is not a new phenomenon for Shoal Bay Beach but it has again highlighted the vulnerability and concerns of Shoal Bay and Fingal Bay residents.”
The THHG say an additional access road would also address vehicle congestion during busy periods, cater for residential and visitor growth, and enhance the appeal of the Tomaree Headland and the Shoal Bay business precinct.
At a Meet the Candidates session held by the Tomaree Ratepayers and Residents Association last Thursday, all mayoral candidates were asked if they would “provide a commitment to immediately commence the planning for an alternate road into Shoal Bay”.
Mr Clough told NOTA said the responses did not reflect the urgency of the situation.
“The responses did not demonstrate that there was any urgency to start and give priority to commencement of the investigation and planning of an alternate road,” he said.
“The community and the Tomaree Headland Heritage Group have a completely different view.
“The responses mainly revolved around how to address the immediate problem, which we of course also support, but longterm planning is equally important,” he
said.
Port Stephens Council adopted a ‘Place Plan’ for Shoal Bay in April.
Earlier this month, Port Stephens Council Asset
Section Manager John Maretich said the “ongoing threat to the [Shoal Bay] road from future erosion remains a serious concern for Council and the
community”. Council’s Coastal Management Program is currently awaiting sign-off from the NSW Government.
Reduced speed limit on Italia Road
TRANSPORT for NSW has completed a road safety review on Italia Road, resulting in a speed limit reduction from 90km/h to 80km/h.
A speed zone review is a comprehensive process that includes site inspections, analysis of the current road environment and road condition, consideration of crash data and traffic
volumes.
The review was in response to a request from Port Stephens Council and the NSW Police.
Installation of the new speed zone signage will commence from Tuesday 10 September.
Work will be carried out on Italia Road between the Pacific Highway and East Seaham Road.
Motorists are advised to drive to the conditions and follow the directions of signs and traffic control.
“Electronic message signs will be installed on Italia Road four weeks before the changes come into effect to advise motorists of the new speed limit and will remain in place for a number of weeks after the speed zone change occurs,” Member for Port Stephens Kate Washington said.
Counting the dolphin population
By Thomas O'KEEFE
VOLUNTEERS around Port Stephens Bay stood vigilant to count the local and active dolphin population on Sunday 18 August.
Under the auspices of ORRCA, the Organisation for the Rescue and Research of Cetaceans in Australia, the volunteer army of spotters were stationed at 62 registered sites on beaches,
bridges and boats. Vessels from Marine Rescue, Imagine Cruises and Moonshadow Cruises also took part.
“With the help of community volunteers, we are able to observe the dolphins around the Bay and collect valuable information for conservation and research, and this helps shape our understanding of the local dolphin population,” said ORRCA’s Dolphin Census organiser, Sherelyn Overson.
“We are currently analysing the data to check
the number of dolphins, to ensure we don't double count.
“We are looking at the number of dolphins observed, start and end times, locations, directions of travel and sighting notes.
“The community volunteers’ participation in this event is much
appreciated and we hope you will join us again when we conduct the next census.”
Of the preliminary results available, the largest group sighted had 20 individuals.
Forty percent of dolphins were travelling, 20 percent were feeding, and 40 percent were involved in multiple activities.
ORRCA, now in its 35th year, is an entirely volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation with a primary focus on the protection of whales, dolphins, seals and dugongs in Australian waters
The organisation aims to protect and educate about
the cetaceans of the sea, often working hand-in-flipper with the NSW Parks and Wildlife services, but funded mostly through donations and grants.
The Dolphin Census is the longest-running community dolphin count in Australia, operating for over 20 years.
q Annie Post and Sherelyn Overson from ORRCA with Paul Radford, Andy Wilson and Brad Polak from Marine Rescue at Nelson Bay Marina. Photo: ORRCA.
q The dolphin census sites around Port Stephens Bay, from the mouth of the Myall River to Anna Bay, and all around the shorelines, Yacaaba to Tanilba. Photo: ORRCA.
Lions fundraise for cancer research
By Marian SAMPSON
THE Lions Club of Raymond Terrace hold an annual Biggest High Tea event to raise funds for the Lions Childhood Cancer Research Foundation (LCCRF).
This year, a ‘Quilt for a Cure’ is also being raffled, with profits going to the LCCRF.
Annette Clark of the Raymond Terrace Lions Club told News Of The Area, “At last year's event, two ladies were so very moved by the guest speaker’s presentation and
the cause… that they went home, recruited some more willing workers, and created a wonderful handmade quilt.”
Local Lions members will be selling tickets from 5-7 September at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace.
“Our Lions will be located at the bottom of the travelator,” Annette said.
The annual fundraiser has grown year to year and is heavily supported by the local community and businesses.
“We are on target for a record year,” Annette said.
“A visit to the Lions
Childhood Cancer Research Foundation website will highlight some of the amazing stories of children whose health journey has been affected and greatly improved by the relationship between LCCRF and the health professionals.”
This year's Biggest High Tea is being held on Saturday 28 September at St John's Church in Raymond Terrace.
“The high quality of homemade food, raffles, silent auctions and great company will again be the focus for the event,” Annette said.
Positive Behaviour for Learning
By Marian SAMPSON
THE Raymond Terrace Community
Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) program is supporting local students to shine.
Each school that participates in PBL has dedicated coordinators who ensure students learn the values of the program.
The PBL coordinators for Grahamstown Public School are teachers Megan and Katrina.
“Grahamstown Public School is an enthusiastic PBL school,” they said.
“We uphold our values of respect, personal best and safety in all settings.
“We are always on the lookout for students who are doing their best and love to get together and celebrate our wonderful kids with reward activities,” they said.
Last week’s PBL award nominees
• Irrawang Public School student Xaviar was nominated for the outstanding sportsmanship he displays at football on the weekends.
“We have a lot of new staff and we have been revamping and reinvigorating our expectations and processes for PBL in our school community.
He demonstrates the school and community value of respect to everyone, everywhere, every time.
• Eli from Raymond Terrace Public School was nominated by visitors to the school who admired his respect to them and his peers during their activities.
• Amleanah of Grahamstown Public School was recognised for being hardworking, kind and caring.
• Irrawang High School student Wayne was recognised for giving assistance to young students at Irrawang Public School during their NAIDOC Day celebrations and his participation in the Write it Right Program.
• Hunter River High School’s Lacie was nominated for supporting a young member of the community who needed assistance.
• Tasman from Salt Ash Public School was nominated for being a respectful and supportive competitor while representing his school at Zone Athletics.
• Medowie Public School’s Ellison was nominated for independently offering to train the school’s relay teams.
During training, he was supportive of younger students, including those who needed extra time to master the concept.
• Lilly from Seaham Public School was nominated for being a respectful and responsible member of the local community.
Lilly recently represented her school at the Hunter Primary Gymnastics Initiative, showing outstanding effort and sportsmanship and achieving fantastic results.
• Charlotte from Karuah Public School was nominated for consistently exemplifying school and community PBL values and expectations.
Charlotte always does the right thing at the right time, being a true asset to her school and community.
q PBL award nominees at the presentation ceremony at MarketPlace Raymond Terrace last Thursday night.
Community called on to support koalas
By Marian SAMPSON
KOALAS are more active and mobile during the warmer months, prompting a call for Port Stephens and Myall Coast motorists to be extra careful on the road.
Koalas are considered an endangered species in NSW, with road strikes a considerable threat to their safety.
Port Stephens is home to one of the last surviving colonies of wild koalas in New South Wales.
WWF Australia estimated in 2021 that there are “no more than 250 koalas left in the Port Stephens colony”.
“Koala breeding season is usually from August to February, but mating started as early as July this year,” said MidCoast Council’s Acting Manager Natural Systems,
Prue Tucker.
“Koalas are more likely to cross roads and other open areas as they search for a mate or new territory.
“Please slow down on tree-lined roads, especially in low-light conditions, including dusk, dawn and at night.”
Community members are also encouraged to report all koala sightings.
For residents in the MidCoast LGA, visit www. midcoast.nsw.gov.au/ koalasafespaces.
Port Stephens sightings can be recorded at https:// psk.net.au/sighting/.
This data helps ecologists know more about koala locations and movements.
If your vehicle hits and injures a koala, or if you see a road-injured koala, please call your local koala rescue
organisation immediately.
With koalas more often on the ground, dog attacks and livestock trampling also escalate during koala breeding season.
“We can all help by reporting stray dogs and keeping pet dogs secured at night and under effective control,” explained Ms Tucker.
“Those with livestock can also consider planting more koala feed trees in paddocks.
“Trees not only provide shade and wind breaks, but can also serve as refuge sites for koalas.”
How you can support local koalas
For the second year running, Port Stephens Koala Hospital (PSKH) is holding a ‘Cooking For Koalas’ fundraiser throughout the month of September.
PSKH responds to
Have Your Say
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 appropriateness media@newsofthearea.com.au
koala rescue calls 24/7, and provides veterinary treatment and year-round care at the purpose-built hospital at One Mile.
PSKH aims to raise awareness of the plight of koalas, and key funds to give koalas in their care the best opportunity to be returned to
the wild.
Participating food and drink venues displaying the Cooking for Koalas poster have pledged to make a oneoff donation to PSKH.
"To help generate interest, venues might dedicate the sale, or percentage of a menu item, or create a koala-
inspired item or drink – or even hold an event," said Christine Johnson, PSKH’s promotions volunteer.
“PSKH is incredibly grateful to the food and drink venues that have already come on board to support the campaign,” she said.
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q A beautiful Port Stephens koala.
Photo: Marian Sampson.
Spotlight on threatened species
By Marian SAMPSON
THREATENED Species Day will be observed around the country on September 7, raising awareness of plants and animals at risk of extinction.
According to the NSW Department of Environment, Australia is home to more than 500,000 animal and plant species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.
Over the last 200 years, more than 100 of our animal and plant species have become extinct.
In New South Wales alone there are close to 1,000 animal and plant species at risk of extinction.
While Port Stephens is famous for its endangered koalas, a host of other flora and fauna are also considered to be at risk.
The Port Stephens Great Lakes Marine Park is home to important areas for the critically endangered Grey Nurse Shark, with critical habitats at The Pinnacle, Big/ Little Seal Rocks and Little Broughton Island.
The Black Rockcod, which belongs to the cod
and Grouper family, can be found hiding along rocky reef crevices.
Black Rockcod populations have been significantly reduced over time due to a number of factors including: overharvesting by line, net and spearfishers; hooking and handling injuries; and loss or degradation of estuarine and intertidal nursery habitats.
The park is also home to green, loggerhead and hawksbill turtles, with juvenile green turtles the most abundant within Port Stephens estuary.
Occasionally, leatherback turtles are spotted offshore.
Australia’s rarest endemic seabird - the vulnerable Gould's petrel - breeds only on Cabbage Tree and Boondelbah Islands, immediately off the heads of Port Stephens.
The species feeds surface fish, small squid and krill in oceanic waters over a wide area.
Back on the mainland, work has been underway to protect the threatened Villous Mintbush, which is susceptible to extinction because of development pressures, its small
population size and restricted distribution.
In June, a collaboration between conservation groups sought to protect the species locally.
“The collaboration
between the NSW Government’s Saving Our Species program (SOS), the Hunter Region Botanic Gardens and the Friends of Tomaree National Park came together this year on World
Environment Day (5 June) to boost the population of the threatened Villous Mintbush - Prostanthera densa - in Tomaree National Park,” Sue Olsen of EcoNetwork Port Stephens told News Of The Area.
“The Villous Mintbush was once widespread in the broader Nelson Bay area, but prior to the SOS program, very few plants remained in only two locations too close to urban development,” she said.
q A Black Cockatoo. Photo: Marian Sampson.
q A Green Sea Turtle. Photo: Marian Sampson.
Readynow! Readynow!
Nurses take industrial action
By Simon EKINS
NURSING staff at Tomaree Community Hospital conducted an hour of industrial action on Thursday 29 August.
The walkout was undertaken by on and off duty union members, with a skeleton crew of nonunion staff covering the care of patients.
Megan Chippindale organised the action, following similar events at Maitland and the John Hunter in recent days.
“We’re conducting this action because we care about our community,” Ms Chippindale said.
“The NSW public health system is in a staffing crisis, with experienced senior nurses and midwives leaving due to poor pay and conditions, and the sector is failing to attract the new recruits needed to fill the gaps.”
Registered nurse Tracey Richardson told NOTA
nurses and midwives are “burnt out and exhausted”.
“We are asking the NSW Government to fix our pay so we can afford to stay in the profession we love,” she said.
The action being taken by nursing staff is not solely related to pay however, with hospital staff also calling for improved conditions.
Union members indicated future stop work actions could last four or eight hours if staff feel they are not being heard.
Potential ‘Work to Rule’ action was also discussed, when workers take industrial action by only doing what is defined by their role description, policies or procedures.
Under this action health workers would refuse to perform extra duties such as cleaning and administrative tasks.
“We want to be recognised for the profession we have, not the vocation we have,” said Ms Richardson, a 25-year nursing veteran.
“The time and effort it takes to get a nursing
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degree, many of us have post-grad qualifications and Masters in order to be at the very top of our skill levels.
“However, because of the lack of staff, we are exhausted and recovering by taking sick days will affect our patients.
“We are looking at the longevity of where we are going because nobody wants a family member sitting in a ward of fourteen beds with one tired nurse on night shift handling all of these duties.
“What we want is for our health service to improve for the sake of the entire community.”
Innovative social and affordable home project
HUME Housing has lodged a development application (DA) to build thirteen homes in Phillip Street, Raymond Terrace through a partnership with Homes NSW.
Homes NSW will contribute land where three ageing dwellings currently sit, while Hume Housing will manage the project, transforming the site into six two-bedroom social homes, and seven new affordable townhouses.
If approved, Hume Housing will manage both the affordable and social homes, with the social homes to remain owned by Homes NSW.
The Federal Government’s Social and Affordable Accelerator Fund (SHAF) will provide a $1.5 million grant to support the project's delivery.
NELSON BAY CANCER PATIENT TRANSPORT GROUP
Is a volunteer group providing the following services to our local community
Volunteer drivers who transport patients to the Newcastle Metropolitan area for cancer treatment and related Doctors’ appointments. It is an ancillary service for when cancer patients cannot access any other reliable form of personal transport for treatments and appointments.
Our services are subject to available resources.
This service is provided free of charge to patients and continues due to the generosity of our volunteer drivers, financial grants and donations received from the local community.
Phone: 0407 252 566
Email:secretary@nbcptg.com.au www.nbcptg.com.au
Hume Housing Chief Executive Officer Brad Braithwaite said, “Although Hume is a non-profit community housing provider, we are investing in
this pilot project using our cherished reserves because we see it as a model with great potential for providing more significant and diverse housing solutions at scale for this region in the future.
“This is a relatively small pilot project, but we are very hopeful that from little things big things come.
“This collaboration demonstrates the impact of councils, state government and community housing providers working together to tackle the housing crisis."
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said the partnership marks a “significant milestone in addressing housing needs in the Hunter region”.
"Through strategic
collaborations like this, Homes NSW is proud to facilitate the transformation of underutilised spaces into vibrant communities.
“This project alone is growing the supply of homes in Raymond Terrace with the number of households who will benefit with a new place to call home increasing from three to thirteen.”
State MP Kate Washington said the project will be the “biggest investment in social housing in Port Stephens for more than a decade”.
Hume Housing worked losely with Port Stephens Council on their DA.
q Registered nurses Tracey Richardson and Megan Chippindale.
q Nursing staff demonstrate outside Tomaree Community Hospital on Thursday.
Schools focus on bird migration
By Simon EKINS
LAST week, Bobs Farm Public School was the first cab off the rank in a program to educate students in Port Stephens about the amazing annual migration of birds from the northern hemisphere to the Hunter wetlands.
Members of the Ports Stephens Sister Cities Committee, the Hunter Bird Observers Club and local artists have collaborated to provide practical hands-on activities to create awareness of the birds’ journeys and the importance of protecting local wetlands.
Other primary schools that have agreed to participate are Soldiers Point, St Michael’s, Tomaree and St Philip's Christian College.
Migratory birds they’ll check out include the Bartailed Godwit, Eastern Curlew, and Latham’s Snipe, which travels 8000 kilometres from Japan to Australia, including the Hunter region.
The students will be supplied with resources including teacher notes and picture books supplied with funding by Port Stephens Council.
Student artwork about the birds and the wetlands will be displayed in an
exhibition to be held at Port Stephens Community Arts Centre.
The program is part of events to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Sister Wetlands Agreement by the councils of Port Stephens, Newcastle and Kushiro, Japan.
Within each
municipality are wetlands recognised under the Ramsar Convention as internationally significant.
As well as the school program, a community-based education program will be held in November to coincide with a visit by a Kushiro delegation, including mayor Hiroya Ebina, for a formal resigning of the agreement with Newcastle and Port Stephens mayors.
For further information, contact Elaine Fereday on 0438 841 932.
A walk of remembrance
By Simon EKINS
BOAT Harbour will be the location of a Remembrance Walk held by the Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network (PSSPN) on Sunday 8 September.
Each year PSSPN holds
the walk at Iluka Reserve to enable members of the Port Stephens community who have lost loved ones to suicide to come together to remember those they have lost and support each other.
“Our network has been working for sixteen
years, helping to build awareness of suicide and its impacts and strengthen community resilience and wellbeing,”
PSSPN President David Creenaune said.
“Our primary focus area in supporting our community is the provision of high quality training on suicide and its impacts and building practical skills and the confidence to take action when the need arises.”
PSSPN’s efforts over the years have not gone unnoticed, with the Mental Health Commission of New South Wales handing them a Mental Health Promotion and Wellbeing award, and Port Stephens Council entering into a partnership program with the group championed by State MP Kate Washington.
“We’ve also had massive support from the local community over the years such as Rotary organisations and Anna Bay Fishing Club to name a few,” said the network’s Secretary, Suzanne Creenaune.
“We additionally work closely with other like-minded organisations such as Beyond Blue, Lifeline and MensLine.
“All our volunteers are professionally trained via the Wesley Mission, and we provide free education and training to other groups such as a recent session at the Murrook Culture Centre on Nelson Bay Road.
“We have a donation tin at LJ’s Takeaway shop at Anna Bay which helps the organisation hugely, but people can also donate via our website or by
contacting us on Facebook.”
PSSPN have been developing a new team to build on the successes of the organisation, meeting once a month to work together on community initiatives.
One such initiative in the making is the use of ‘Labyrinths’, which have been used for many years across different cultures.
“We are now actively fundraising to build a labyrinth at Fly Point in Nelson Bay,” explained David.
“A labyrinth is a space where communities can gather together for meditation and reflection and other practical exercises used in health and wellbeing.
“The Remembrance Walk is an example of the community coming together to support one another through various activities.
“From 9am on Sunday 8 September, we will be meeting at Iluka Reserve, Boat Harbour where there will be a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, a guest speaker, wellbeing activities, coffee, barbeque and refreshments, as well as the walk itself, and everyone is welcome to attend.”
For more details on the walk or queries about volunteering with PSSPN, contact david.creenaune@ psspn.org.au.
q Hunter Bird Observers Club member
Ross Zimmerman shows a Bobs Farm student how to identify birds. .
q Students learn about eggs and nesting habits.
q Bobs Farm students enjoying the informative session.
q Suzanne and David Creenaune from the Port Stephens Suicide Prevention Network.
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The home is solid and original and the potential is only limited to your imagination, and council approval of course.
Imagine stepping out your back door and strolling down the path that leads straight to the beach.
Whether you're looking to create your perfect family home, a serene holiday escape or an investment property this is an exciting opportunity you won’t want to miss.
Stay tuned - this beachside beauty is coming to market soon!
Register your interest now by calling Nelson Bay Real Estate on 02 49812655.
There are so many possibilities to explore with this exceptional opportunity.
Open seven days.
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Anna Bay Tavern
Anna Bay Bakery
BYO Cellars Anna Bay
Ingenia Holiday Park
Middle Rock Retirement Village
Anna Bay Village
Seawinds Village
Nelson Bay Bowling Club
Nelson Bay Golf Club
Woolworths Nelson Bay
Nelson Bay Newsagent
Nelson Bay Real Estate
Coles Express Servo Nelson Bay
Seabreeze Hotel
Port Stephens Visitor Info Centre
Tackleword Port Stephens
Essence Cafe
Dolphin Watch Cafe
West Diggers
Harbourside Haven
Bernie Thompson Village
Shoal Bay Pharmacy
IGA Shoal Bay
John Patterson
Bill King Aged Care
Friendly Grocer Fingal Bay
Kreative Space Studio Fingal Bay
Regis Aged Care
Corlette Store
Uniting Care
Homestead Village
Sandy Shores
Big4 Soldiers Point
Soldiers Point Bowling Club
Foodworks Salamander Bay
Wanda Beach Pharmacy
Mobil Salamander Bay
Caltex Salamander Bay
Coles Salamander Bay
Natural Tucker
Woolworths Salamander Bay
Horizons Golf Club
Sunrise Lifestyle Resort
Seaham General Store
Opal Aged Care
Red Eye Café Raymond Terrace
Angeez Takeaway Raymond Terrace
Pet Parlour Raymond Terrace
Terrace Central Plaza Post Office
Newsagent Terrace Central Plaza
Woolworths Terrace Central Plaza
MarketPlace Woolworths
Raymond Terrace Shell
Raymond Terrace Library
Lakeside Newsagent
R&R Property
Foodworks Lakeside
Lakeside Leisure Centre
Muree Golf Club
Saxby's Bakery Salt Ash
Tanilba Bay Nursing Home
Tanilba Bay Retirement Units
Coles Tanilba Bay
Endevour Servo Tanilba Bay
Tanilba Newsagent
Post Office Tanilba Bay
Blue Marine Services
Chemist Lemon Tree
Club Lemon Tree
Tilligerry RSL
Tilligerry Real Estate
Coles Medowie
7-Eleven Medowie
Medowie Newsagent
Medowie Pharmacy
Woolworths Medowie
Medowie Social
Medowie Football Club
BP Servo Medowie
Pacific Dunes Golf Club
Metro Servo (Airport Side)
Metro Servo (Lavis Lane)
Stargazing: Is space worth the money OPINION
By Dave RENEKE, Astronomer
AH, the age-old question: is the space program a colossal waste of money?
Do you think the money could be better spent here on planet Earth?
You may not be aware of it, but the space program has developed over a thousand spinoffs that directly, or indirectly, benefit humanity.
In fact, you probably used a dozen of them today!
Take Teflon, for example.
While not directly a result of space research, Teflon became a household name thanks to its use in spacecraft.
The same goes for memory foam - the stuff that makes your Tempur-Pedic mattress so irresistibly comfortable was originally designed to cushion astronauts during launch.
So, next time you sink into your bed, thank a rocket scientist.
Let’s not forget about the tiny gadgets we can’t live without - our smartphones.
The satellites orbiting Earth, ensuring we can send selfies across the globe in an instant, wouldn’t be there without space exploration.
GPS? A gift from space technology.
Satellite TV? Yup, that too.
Basically, every time you use your phone to navigate to the nearest coffee shop or stream cat videos, you’re reaping the benefits of decades of space research.
And what about the internet itself?
While Al Gore may not have actually invented it, the global network we depend on owes a lot to space-based communication advancements.
Without NASA's early work in satellite technology, we’d be stuck with dial-up or, even worse, having actual face-to-face conversations.
Terrifying, right?
But space exploration isn’t just about convenience and comfort.
It’s about saving lives.
Many of the medical technologies we rely on today have their roots in space research.
Take the heart pump, for instance.
NASA engineers developed a device based on space shuttle fuel
pumps that has since saved countless lives.
And let’s not forget about advanced imaging technologies like MRI and CAT scans, which have their origins in space-related research.
Then there’s the little matter of climate change.
Ever heard of Landsat?
It’s the longest-running enterprise for acquiring satellite images of Earth.
Launched by NASA in 1972, this program has been crucial in monitoring deforestation, urban sprawl, and the effects of natural disasters.
If you care about the future of our planet (and you should), then you’ve got to give a nod to the space program for helping us keep an eye on things down here.
And let’s not forget about solar power.
NASA’s research into harnessing the sun’s energy for space missions has paved the way for the solar panels now adorning rooftops across
the world.
So, while you’re feeling all eco-friendly, charging your devices with solar power, remember that it’s space exploration that made it possible.
Want a better weather forecast? Thank a satellite.
Want to order a pizza with your phone? Thank you, satellite.
Want to use GPS to find that elusive parking spot?
You guessed it, thank a satellite!
Remember that scratchresistant watch you wear? Yep, space tech.
The tiny cameras in your phone?
Thank NASA, spacederived technology, all the way.
Finally, on the Space Station, NASA has developed technology that converts human urine and grey washing water into safe drinking water.
True! The spinoffs for developing countries with polluted streams and rivers are enormous!
So, is space a waste of money?
Sure, if you consider modern medicine, global communication, environmental monitoring, and technological innovation to be frivolous expenditures. But if you’re like most people - who enjoy living longer, being more connected, and sleeping on a comfy mattress - then maybe, just maybe, the space program is worth every penny.
In fact, this might just be one of the best investments we’ve ever made.
Because while the stars may be out of reach for most of us, the benefits of exploring them are right here in our hands. So, let’s keep looking up - who knows what wonders we’ll discover next and what earthly delights they’ll bring.
Are you a NASA convert now?
Remember, for every one dollar spent on the space program, $7 to $14 is returned back into the economy. That’s not a bad investment.
Visit Dave’s website: www.davereeneke.com.
Stop the misinformation
DEAR News Of The Area,
CONGRATULATIONS to Kate Washington for attempting to educate your readers about the deliberate spread of misinformation concerning Hunter offshore energy generation.
I am distressed and appalled at the billboards that I see as I drive to Nelson Bay.
They are deceitful misinformation and should be taken down.
There are considerable benefits for offshore wind turbine energy generation in terms of helping to limit
global warming and the acidification of our oceans.
There are also benefits to the local fishing and tourism industry because the turbine infrastructure generates reefs that create fish nurseries that attract bigger fish whereas the acidification of the oceans limits the supply of small crustaceans that act as a food source for larger marine mammals and fish.
Turbines are not a hazard to whales; whales are more than capable of avoiding the turbine infrastructure.
How many whales hit
bulk carriers?
With regard to the billboard posters displaying turbines within Port Stephens, this is a deceit - they are 20 kilometres offshore and virtually invisible from shoreline.
We have to close down CO2 generation by fossil fuels.
Let us go ahead informed as to the reasons why renewables will help us provide energy to the planet without creating chaos.
Regards, Eugenie LUMBERS, Medowie.
Questions for candidates
DEAR News Of The Area,
I CONGRATULATE the three members of our community who are wanting the vote of the Port Stephens community
to be the next mayor.
I have a couple simple questions:
1. What is their view on the proposed offshore wind farm project? Yes or no.
2. As mayor, would they put a motion to council to rescind the almost 30 percent rate increase imposed on us by the last Council due to the
On theCouch
Email Jasminda: media@newsofthearea.com.au
DEAR Jasminda,
CLOSE friends have recently put in an offer on a house that we told them about.
They've said it's strictly a business decision and nothing to do with our friendship.
We are now considering putting in a higher offer.
What do you think?
Fiona W.
Dear Fiona,
Real estate decisions are brutal.
It's not a game for the faint of heart, or, in
this market, for the light of wallet.
I can see this situation regressing into a War of the Roses saga with both couples pitted against each other until the bitter end, one of you falling from the chandelier in the foyer, the other planting prawn shells in the curtain rods for revenge.
The only winners will be the current owners and the real estate agent. Is it your dream home? The one you've spent your entire life looking for?
If so, push ahead with your best offer. If it's just one of many possibilities, still put in your best offer to jack the price up.
When your so-called
"close friends" gloat that they've secured the property, you could, (if you're feeling particularly unforgiving, and let's face it, who wouldn't) mutter something about the building defects, the westerly sun that makes the kitchen feel like a sauna, the inevitable downward trend in property prices, the strange axe-wielding neighbour named Norman.
Have some fun with it, at their expense, since it's clear, from their actions, that the friendship is expendable.
In future, you have to go about property purchases as though you are a secret squirrel. Say nothing to anyone until the sale has been secured.
Dutton cartoon ‘offensive’
DEAR News Of The Area,
I BELIEVE Dorin's socalled ‘cartoon’ last week depicting Peter Dutton as “unwelcoming” would be seen as offensive to many of your readers.
I for one would prefer someone like Peter Dutton
inability of the paid executive to present a balanced budget?
3. What is their view on proposed high rise developments in the Nelson Bay CBD area that will lead to increased traffic problems that ultimately deter tourists and interrupt the passive population growth when
deciding who comes to our country and on what basis than Albanese, who will do whatever any particular minority tells him to do if he thinks it will win a vote or two.
Your paper once again shows an obvious leaning to the left on political issues and
other services are not keeping up with demand.
4. While a State Government issue, how will these mayoral candidates promote the need for an increased number of Police allocated to the Port Stephens sector of the Hunter Port Stephens Police District.
The Big Screen with Lindsay Hall
By Lindsay HALL
NOSTALGIA calls the GenXers to the movies again this week, with Beetlejuice Beetlejuice commencing in early September in the hopes of driving costume sales for Halloween.
A “legacy sequel” to Tim Burton’s 1988 film Beetlejuice, this film sees the return of Michael Keaton to the role that launched his career - the titular, chaos causing ‘bio-exorcist’ and “ghost with the most” - along with Winona Ryder as Lydia,
now a mother herself who must help her own angsty teenage daughter contend with haunted houses, pesky poltergeists and the afterlife.
While he has roped in a number of big stars, the appeal of this film will depend entirely on one’s affection for the original, and how much you can tolerate Burton’s visual aesthetic.
A revenge movie that the whole family can get behind, Thelma premieres this week and scammers should start locking their doors.
When a kindly
grandmother (June Squibb) falls victim to phone scammers posing as her grandson (Fred Hechinger), she recruits the aid of a nursing home companion (Richard Roundtree), intent on recovering her lost money.
A comedy with heart, Thelma explores not just the challenges of ageing, but the frustrations faced by senior citizens whose families assume they are far less capable in life than they may actually be.
This week's homegrown
offering is another sports documentary, A Horse Named Winx.
Purporting to be the ‘behind-the-scenes’ telling of the real life fairytale of “The People’s Horse”, television footage and interviews are woven into the narrative of possibly the greatest Australian racehorse of all time (sorry Phar Lap).
Charting the few lows and constant highs of her career, as well as health challenges along the way, this is gearing up to be an inspiring tale that won’t
have a tragic end, since the horse is still alive and well in retirement.
Hopping across the pond once more - only this time heading up to South Korea - Land of Happiness makes its debut in Australian theatres.
A courtroom drama inspired by the true-to-life assassination of President Park Chung Hee in 1979, the film focuses on the efforts of defence attorney Jung In-hoo to bring the truth to light and save his client, a high ranking Intelligence
maybe Dorin should look for a job with the ABC, although I think even they would find it hard to see him as funny.
Regards, Daryl RYAN, One Mile.
One car crew at Raymond Terrace and one at Nelson Bay is simply not acceptable as the demand for police response increases, as does the complexity of that response.
Regards, Doug BELL, Raymond Terrace.
official who has been made a scapegoat.
The real history of the case is a fascinating onePark Chung Hee had been a popular leader who later became a dictator, and his assassination arguably led to the democratisation of South Korea.
The motivation behind his death, however, was not likely so noble, as many government agencies vied for control of the nation.
Those hoping for a true history lesson may find themselves a little embarrassed later, as the filmmakers have taken significant liberties with the story.
READING by Lynne Miles: Psalm 103: 13"As a Father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him."
Carpe diem, Jasminda.
Warning for national housing target after approval data
By Andrew BROWN, AAP
STRONGER-THAN-
EXPECTED figures for building approvals have not dispelled concerns national housing targets might not be able to be reached.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed a 10.4 per cent increase in the number of dwelling approvals during July; a sharp turn-around from a 6.4 per cent drop in June.
There were almost 15,000 new dwellings approved in July, driven by a 32 percent spike in new apartments being given the green light.
But peak construction bodies have warned the uptick would still not be enough for jurisdictions to attain targets under the
national housing accords.
The housing accord, which came into effect from the middle of 2024, demands that 1.2 million new homes be built by the end of the decade.
Master Builders Australia chief executive Denita Wawn said while housing approval figures were welcome, more needed to be done.
"If we remain at this pace, we're looking at creating about 831,000 new homes over the next five years," she said.
"We cannot take the foot off the pedal when it comes to boosting housing supply and improving the investment environment for new projects."
The housing approval figures showed that despite the more than 10 per cent increase, it was still 5.1 per
q There was a 10.4 percent increase in the number of dwelling approvals during July.
cent lower than the five-year average.
Property Council of Australia executive Matthew Kandelaars said a goal of 1.2 million new homes was still achievable.
"While it's pleasing to see the number of housing approvals rise in July, we are still building at levels below what we were building five years ago," Mr Kandelaars said.
"We simply won't hit our housing targets if we don't continue to increase the number of homes approved. We need to see results like this, month after month."
But Urban Development Institute of Australia national director Col Dutton said one month was not enough time to see how housing trends would lead to the accord targets being met.
"Just focusing on monthto-month figures does not provide the full picture.
“We need to look at the trend over the year to truly understand the
circumstances we are in and continuing low building approvals," he said.
"These results show some positive ground for apartments but the overall
picture shows that we are building less than we did five years ago which has material impact on our ability to achieve anywhere close to the 1.2 million homes target."
Kids no longer fostered in hotels after 'cage' report
By Luke COSTIN, AAP
SHUTTLING vulnerable children through motels, hotels and caravan parks at huge cost to the taxpayer will finally end under a new ban.
The use of unaccredited emergency accommodation in NSW's state care system has been slammed in multiple reports including in August by a children's advocate. Criticisms include costs
of up to $2 million per child per year, many staff lacking therapeutic trauma-informed approaches and instances of children not being properly fed or clothed.
Describing it as a "long
overdue" move, Families
Minister Kate Washington said so-called alternative care arrangements will be prohibited by February.
That time will allow for 39 children still in the system to be relocated into suitable settings, such as a safe return to their parents or going to an intensive therapeutic care environment
A dedicated team inside government has already shifted another 100 children out of alternative care arrangements since November.
Ms Washington said the use of third-party emergency accommodation providers for vulnerable children skyrocketed under the previous government.
Government oversight was limited while providers were not required to meet the NSW Child Safe Standards for Permanent Care.
"Since I became minister, I've made it very clear that
vulnerable children do not belong in hotels, motels or caravan parks with shift workers instead of foster carers," she said on Tuesday.
"We acted early, and we're already seeing meaningful results, with the number of children in unaccredited alternative care arrangements falling by 72 per cent in just eight months."
The Advocate for Children and Young People in August found children felt unsafe, unsupported and disconnected in the temporary arrangements, with health and schooling often affected.
One boy likened himself to "a doggy in the pound ... moving from cage to cage" while girls raised concern about their risk of abuse.
The boy's comments were picked up in the title of the advocate's interim report: "Moving Cage to Cage".
In a case highlighted by a court in 2022, two brothers
watched their near-perfect school attendance plummet after a care agency receiving $2600 a day regularly dropped them off late and failed to properly feed and clothe them.
"There's been no evidence that has come to me that these arrangements are good for children and young people," NSW Advocate for Children and Young People Zoe Robinson said in May.
The "last resort" placements have cost about $500 million in the past six years.
Using hotels and motels for out-of-home-care placements has also been used in Victoria, where a children's advocate in 2019 found such instability harms children and young people.
It has also drawn criticism for its use in New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, where young people sued the state of Oregon to curtail the practice.
PM criticised for walking back from environment pledge
By Tracey FERRIER, AAP
THE Albanese government has been accused of gutting Australia's new environmental watchdog to get it through parliament before the election.
Legislation to establish Environment Protection Australia is before the Senate.
Voters have long been told the independent umpire for nature - rather than the environment minister - would have primary responsibility for deciding if developments proceeded or not.
But the prime minister now says he's open to scrapping the new body's decision-making
powers amid talks with the Coalition, in order to get it across the line this term.
"One of the things that we're considering is whether the new EPA would be compliance-only, that is, (it) would examine compliance with the act, the EPBC act," Anthony Albanese has told The West Australian.
Conservation groups are horrified, having praised those powers as a way to remove the risk of political interference from nature protection.
But Professor Graeme Samuel, who led a sweeping review that found existing environmental laws are not fit
for purpose, is not concerned.
He told AAP it did not much matter who made such decisions.
The crucial thing was that they stick to new national standards that will articulate, in detail, what the environmental outcomes must be.
WWF-Australia fears any such change will leave Australia with a weak watchdog at a time of unprecedented environmental decline.
"It's heartbreaking to hear the government talk about gutting the EPA that has been at the heart of its reforms," said
Quinton Clements, the group's head of policy.
"Without this, the government will have failed to put in place meaningful reform and will have missed a once-ina-decade chance to reverse our extinction crisis."
The Australian Conservation Foundation said the government should be working with Senate crossbenchers to ensure the nation did not end up with a dud.
"A strong, independent and well-resourced regulator is critical for Australia to move beyond the situation where vested interests influence
decision-making, undermining nature protection," says nature policy adviser Brendan Sydes.
Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said the changes were about achieving a situation that was good for business, as well as nature.
Talks are ongoing with the Coalition, the Greens and other crossbenchers, she said, but opposition environment spokesman Jonathan Duniam is claiming a win.
"The Coalition has proposed a very wide-ranging series of amendments to the government's three EPArelated Bills to better protect
the environment and to make it easier to do business in Australia," he said.
"That included a request that the government honour its clear 2022 election promise that its EPA would serve purely as a data and compliance body, rather than unaccountably be handed a series of far-reaching powers.
"We are glad that the government has now agreed to that."
Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young accused the government of lacking courage and said it could expect some heat when parliament resumed.
Photo: Bianca De Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
q Families Minister Kate Washington said so-called alternative care arrangements will be prohibited by February. Photo: Bianca de Marchi/AAP PHOTOS.
Energy investment off track for 2030 renewables target
By Marion RAE, AAP
AUSTRALIA could miss its renewable energy target without a big acceleration in financial commitments for new electricity generation in coming months.
The investment readout from the Clean Energy Council, released on Tuesday, showed financially committed renewable generation projects at 1.6 gigawatts so far in 2024,
surpassing 2023's woeful total of 1.3GW when solar and wind farms flatlined.
But a pick-up in financial sign-offs in the remaining months of the year is needed to reach the required run rate of 6-7GW per year to achieve 82 per cent renewable energy generation by the end of 2030.
Some 215 generation and storage projects have been commissioned since
2017, providing more than 16 gigawatts of installed electricity generation capacity and 1.8GW of storage, according to industry data.
But proponents are facing higher financing and supply chain costs, a tangle of red and green tape delaying approvals, and a transmission network that can't cope after a decade of under-investment.
Investors are also
Stinker’s Fishin’: Time to catch a bream
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
THE most common fish in our waterways - inside and outside the harbour, around all the islands and on all the beaches - is the bream.
They are relatively easy to catch and they can be targeted
all year round.
The best spots to catch a bream would be the Grit Hole on Fingal Island, the breakwall in Nelson Bay and Tomaree Headland.
It would be difficult for me to tell you where you can’t catch a bream.
Targeting bream around the old oyster racks behind Soldiers Point takes a skill that not all of us possess.
Casting and retrieving with specialist gear requires that talent and there is no better than Lemon Tree champion Wayne
q A priceless photo of 144 dozen lobsters on board the 'Iris A' with the Chalkley and Asquith families.
‘Colesy’ Coles.
awaiting the result of the first tenders under the extended federal Capacity Investment scheme that is meant to support an additional 32GW of capacity by 2030.
The scheme underwrites successful projects with an agreed revenue "floor and ceiling" to reduce financial risks and encourage more investment, particularly in states such as NSW with a reliability gap.
Colesy takes bream fishing to a higher level as he calculates where the biggest bream will gather at a certain time of day and tidal cycle.
Karuah and Tilligerry Creek hold cracker bream at this time of year as does North Arm Cove and Jimmys Beach.
On a recent outing off Bull Island Colesy tossed a soft prawn lure which attracted a 42cm bream.
The best beaches are Stockton and Fingal.
Find a deep hole, toss out a worm, pipi or fresh mullet cubed bait and hang on!
q Lemon Tree Passage champ Wayne Coles with a cracker 42cm bream.
Some 577 megawatts of onshore wind reached financial commitment in the three months to June 30, after no onshore wind projects reached the milestone in 2023.
Big batteries continued their "remarkable run" in the most recent quarter, the peak body's chief executive Kane Thornton said, demonstrating that a record-breaking 2023 was not a one-off.
The largest of the six projects - totalling 573MW of capacity and 2047MW hours of energy outputwas the four-hour Stanwell
Big Battery in Queensland at 300MW/1200MWh.
Construction commenced on 1.1GW of generation projects and five big battery projects, while two projects were connected to the grid at Kathleen Valley in Western Australia and Broken Hill in NSW.
Mr Thornton welcomed the recovery in investment in large-scale generation. But he warned Australia was "not yet at the levels we need to see" to drive down power prices and have energy security.
Stinker’s History: Any old photos?
By John ‘Stinker’ CLARKE
AS you would know, I am particularly fascinated by the history of recreational and commercial fishing, boat building and the oyster industry in Port Stephens - from the Worimi people through to the mid-1800s and on to modern day methods.
Over the years I have
collected hundreds of old black and white photographs that give an insight into the wonderful local history.
With your help I hope to expand on my collection which will eventually become a valued part of the Tomaree Museum to be constructed on the Tomaree Peninsula at a venue to be decided.
My vote goes to Tomaree Headland.
I would appreciate a copy of any old photos that you are willing to share, documents or artefacts which tell the story of this wonderful place in which we live. The museum will focus on the Worimi folk, pioneering families, timber, tourism and the war years.
Please forward any item of interest to stinkerfishing@ yahoo.com.
Homecoming for Cornucopia Lodge
By Lindsay HALL
AFTER sharing space with another lodge
for several years, the members of Masonic Lodge Cornucopia have celebrated a homecoming
of sorts, as they returned to hosting their meetings at the Tomaree Community Centre.
“We had met in that location for some time,” said Stephen Laws, the Worshipful Master of Lodge
Smith chasing AFL premiership flag
By Chris KARAS
NELSON Bay schoolgirl
Taylor Smith dreams of pulling on a Sydney Swans jumper in the AFL Womens cauldron.
The seventeen-year-old Tomaree High student is well on the way to realising that goal as one of the state’s brightest centre half forward prospects.
For the past four seasons the dedicated Smith has endured the three hours plus trek from her Port Stephens home to participate in Swans Academy training sessions at the Moore Park sporting precinct and is relishing the task.
Taylor looks up to the likes of star Swans utility Brenna Tarrant and midfielder/forward ace Brooke Lochland, one of her mentors at the Academy program and a former Women’s All Australian representative.
“Brooke has helped develop my game as a friend and as an assistant coach and brings her game plan into our training sessions,” quipped Taylor.
“She is an experienced Swans leader and top goalkicker and has proved a major influence on my career to date,” added the boom forward who cut her AFL teeth with the Nelson Bay Marlins and Port
SPORT
Stephens Power clubs in the Central Coast Hunter AFL junior competitions.
Taylor was named skipper of this year’s Allies team that competed in the Marsh AFL National Under 18 Girls Championships at Blacktown International Sportspark, Ipswich and Adelaide.
She turned in skilful displays for the Allies that comprised players from Tasmania, Northern Territory and NSW/ACT and led the side to an 8.3 (51) to 5.6 (36) victory over a powerful Queensland outfit.
Victoria Metro won all three games against the Allies, Victoria Country and
South Australia to clinch the title.
To broaden her AFL education, Taylor linked with the Cardiff Hawks club for this season’s Black Diamond Cup senior women's competition.
She will line up for the Hawks in this Saturday’s Grand Final showdown with Killarney Vale Bombers at the Newcastle No 1 Sportsground.
Taylor was on target with two goals in Cardiff’s rousing 7.10 (52) to 0.2 (2) semi-final win over Terrigal-Avoca Panthers last weekend at Max McMahon Oval while the Bombers edged out Newcastle City 5.3 (33) to 4.6 (30).
A premiership flag will look good alongside her Central Coast Hunter AFL Black Diamond Player of the Year and Rising Star awards she earned last season.
Tanilba Bay Veteran Golf Club
By Ian WILLIAMS
DAY/DATE: TUESDAY 27th August '24
TIME, 8.30 Tee Time. 22 players enjoyed a wonderful warm and sunny winters day.
Welcome to local Belmont visitor Geoff Wade EVENT: Individual Stableford. 2nd Round of the Tom McBride Scotch Whiskey tournament sponsored by BYO Cellars Tanilba Bay.
FRONT NINE:
NETT WINNER: Steve Robards nett 20 pts
RUNNER UP: Ray Stubbs nett 18 pts
BALL WINNERS: Barry Gerhagty nett 17 pts
Barry Disch nett 17 pts
Grahame Glover nett 15 pts
Rob Mc Kinney nett 12 pts
NTP WINNERS:
A B & C grades not won.
DRIVE & CHIP WINNERS:
A Grade: Barry Disch
B Grade: not won
C Grade: Barry Gerhagty
BACK NINE:
NETT WINNER:
Laurie Northy nett 19 pts
RUNNER UP:
Gary Payseno nett17pts c/b
BALL WINNERS: Len Hardes nett 17 pts
Bib Foster nett13 pts
Kim Miller nett12 pts
Joe Croci nett 12 pts
Peter Beesley nett 12 pts
NTP WINNERS:
A Grade: Laurie Northy
B Grade: not won
C Grade: Joe Croci
DRIVE & CHIP WINNERS:
A Grade: Andrew Corbett
B Grade: John Sreet
C Grade: Steve Enderby. Next week, 3rd September: Individual Stroke event, 1st Round of the TBVGC Club
Championships tournament sponsored by:
[ ] Tanilba Bay Tyres & Mechanical. Lemontree Passage.
[ ] Portside Real Estate. Tanilba Bayl
[ ] Oyster Shack. Tanilba Bay.
[ ] BYO Cellars. Tanilba Bay.
[ ] Lemon Tree Funeral Services. Lemontree passage.
We thank and appreciate all our much valued sponsors.
Cornucopia.
“We relocated to another venue in Nelson Bay which we shared with another lodge.
“It is a better fit for us to be able to have a space of our own.”
Nearly all current members of the lodge, along with a few visitors, were on hand for the reinstallation.
“Most of our meetings involve gathering together, spending about fifteen minutes doing our Masons business, and then going out for a meal together.”
Many Masonic groups
devote significant efforts to charity, which is reflected in Lodge Cornucopia’s core value that such work begins at home.
New members and even interested seekers are always welcome, and men are encouraged to get in contact if they are curious about the organisation.
Lodge Cornucopia holds regular quarterly meetings with social gatherings in between.
For more information you can contact Worshipful Master Stephen Laws on 0414 812 136.
Noel Cartwright, our Patron. RSL Sports Club, Tanilba Bay.
BYO Cellars, Tanilba Bay. Steak & Chops Butchery, Tanilba Bay
Ray White Real Estate, Tanilba Bay
Portside Real Estate, Tanilba Bay
Tanilba Bay Tyres & Mechanical, Lemon Tree
Passage
Lemon Tree Passage Funerals, Lemon Tree Passage
The Oyster Shack, Tanilba Bay
Terry White Chemist, Tanilba Bay
Tanilba Bay Automotive, Tanilba Bay.
Port Stephens Veteran Golfers Association
By Gary WATT
RESULTS from a Stableford competition played on Monday 26th August 2024 with 42 players at Tanilba Bay GC.
Nett Winner : Robert Paul, 38pts. Nett Runner Up : Roger Groves, 36pts. Bonus Point Winner : Denis Christie, 38pts. Bonus Point Runner Up : John Jefferson, 37pts on c/b.
Nearest the Pin, 4th Hole :
Div 1 : Gary Watt.
Div 2 : Bill Jones, (Muree) Nearest the Pin, 11th Hole, Div 1 : Bob McKeand.
Div 2 : Marc Newman, (Muree)
Drive & Chip, 7th Hole, Div 1 : Ron McKay.
Div 2 : John Jefferson. Drive & Chip, 18th Hole, Div 1 : Ron McKay.
Div 2 : Ann Redman. Ball Winners : Dave Hurley 37pts, Gary Watt 36pts, Bob Sellick 35pts, Ross Dobson 35pts, Fred Rimoni 35pts, Ron McKay 35pts, David Middlebrook 34pts, Gary Chapman 34pts, John Hogan 34pts, and Phil Rogan 34pts.
Lucky Draw Prize : Lester Lake.
Next weeks game is at Tanilba Bay GC and is a 7:30am start.
Visitors are welcome any Monday, please ring Gary Watt on 49814536 for starting times.
q
Sydney Swans Academy ace and Tomaree High School student Taylor Smith in action for the Cardiff Hawks.
q Members of Masonic Lodge Cornucopia.
Yacht Club launches season
By Marian SAMPSON
THE launch of the 2024/25 Port Stephens Yacht Club sailing season was held on Saturday.
Worimi Elder Uncle John Ridgeway started the proceedings with a heartwarming Welcome to Country and a rendition of ‘Worimi Man’.
Uncle John is a passionate custodian of the Worimi language and advocate for the conservation of the Stockton sand dunes.
He spent much of his working life on Port Stephens in the oyster industry.
The season launch event included a sail past of the fleet, a mini expo and a BBQ, serving as a social occasion for sailing enthusiasts of all ages.
Club Commodore Rick Pacey welcomed everyone
to the season launch, highlighting that he was “keen to see the [club’s] membership grow”.
Mr Pacey went on to thank club secretary Cherylle Stone for her role in organising the event.
Deputy Mayor Leah Anderson, attending the event on behalf of Port Stephens Council, said, “It is wonderful to be here again.
“I have attended several of the season launches for the club and look forward to accepting the club’s invitation to participate in an upcoming race.”
The event saw challenging conditions with strong winds gusting to 67 kilometres per hour at Williamtown, making it impossible for some of the fleet to participate in the traditional sail past.
In all only seven vessels ventured out in the blustery
conditions.
all the local
businesses and organisations who contributed to a “highly successful” launch event.
Magpies chase back-to-back titles
By Chris KARAS
RAYMOND Terrace Magpies will turn the clock back twelve months when they contest another NewcastleHunter Rugby League Men’s trophy decider this weekend.
The famous Magpies tasted Grand Final glory in 2023 when they captured the B Grade premiership with a 14-6 victory over Abermain
Hawks on their home base at Lakeside Sporting Complex.
Club legend Luke Handsaker lifted the trophy that day as a triumphant skipper and has a golden opportunity to repeat the feat when the Magpies square off for a fifth time with rivals Waratah-Mayfield.
The Raymond Terrace club have won all four fixtures against the Cheetahs this
season including the Grand Final qualifier 26-12 just a fortnight back.
Nine members of the premiership-winning 2023 squad will line up against Waratah-Mayfield in pursuit of more silverware.
Dashing fullback Montell Kuru, winger Bailey Steed, experienced centre Robert Chaffey and classy halves Kyle Handford and general
Bomboras bow out
By Chris KARAS
THE Kotara Bears have spoiled the Grand Final hopes of Fingal Bay in this year’s Newcastle Hunter Rugby League B Grade men’s competition.
Michael Morrison’s rampaging charges are through to this Saturday’s title decider against East Maitland Griffins after slamming the Bomboras 32-0
in last weekend’s preliminary final at Lakeside Sporting Complex.
The Bears piled on six tries in a classic ambush against a shell-shocked Fingal Bay combination, still reeling from their heartbreaking 1716 loss to the Griffins in an epic major semi final.
Kotara centre Nic Altmann (two), number seven Gavin Nicholas, fullback Patrick Jones, interchange player
Thursday, 5 September 2024
Cash Ward and winger Jacob Ellis all crossed for tries, with five eighth Harry Sorby booting four conversions to complete the rout.
The scars from that devastating loss to East Maitland were still evident for Alex Watkins’ capable Bomboras squad that struggled to hit their straps against the Bears.
Fingal Bay claimed this year’s minor premiership title
Handsaker, prop Zac Jones, hooker Jack Beverley plus key forwards Jackson Macintyre and Cooper Pitt are chasing back-to-back titles with the Magpies and have produced strong displays all season.
The Cheetahs booked a Grand Final spot after eliminating the Cardiff Cobras 44-34 in a high scoring preliminary final last Saturday at Lakeside Sporting
in one of the closest finishes on record and can still reflect on a successful campaign.
Coach Watkins would be proud of his talented line up that featured Steven Whitehead, Jayden Huxtable,
Complex.
Skilful five eighth Jacob Payne and wingers Jai Hartin and Jordan Stanton each grabbed try doubles for Waratah-Mayfield with half back Travis Lowe booting six conversions.
Magpies coach Riki Tupou told News Of The Area that the team “has swept the Cheetahs during this year’s campaign with hard fought wins”.
Mitch Burcher, Drew Watkins, Nathan Barnes, Denver Perfrement, Noah Gibbons, Kane Chester, Lee Preston, Isaac Kneipp, Aaron Cocco,
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“But the Grand Final is the only game that counts and we anticipate another tough tussle with Waratah-Mayfield who stand between us and another senior title,” revealed Tupou.
Shortland Devils set up a Grand Final showdown with Dungog Warriors in the NHRL Womens C Grade division after sinking the Raymond Terrace Magpies 14-4 in a keenly-contested preliminary final.
Alex Sharp, Ayden McCarty, Ki McClelland, Lazarus Brown, Billy Clark, Blake Fuller, Jayden Barnes and Bobby Baker.
Club Secretary Cherylle Stone thanked
q Uncle John Ridgeway performing the Welcome To Country. Photo: Marian Sampson.
q Deputy Mayor Leah Anderson with Port Stephens Yacht Club volunteer Heather Atkins. Photo: Marian Sampson.
q Adios in the sail past. Photo: Marian Sampson.
q Subzero is one of the fleet’s multihull vessels. Photo: Marian Sampson.
q Yacht club fleet vessels Bellamy, Boot n Scoot and She’s the One. Photo: Marian Sampson.
Oceania experience stokes competitive flames for Medowie athlete
By Chris KARAS
AN opportunity to don the green and gold colours of Australia overseas has given rising Medowie schoolgirl athlete Dixie Conlon a new lease on life.
Sixteen-year-old Dixie gained valuable international experience when she represented the Australian Under 18 Track & Field team at the Oceania Athletics Championships in Fiji back in June.
The gifted triple jumper performed strongly in her pet event alongside top class competitors under the age of eighteen plus Australian Open Team athletes building their points and looking for qualifiers for the Paris Olympics.
Dixie narrowly missed out on a podium spot with Australian team mate Dakota Ritchie snaring the gold and two of her New Zealand rivals registering personal best jumps to collect the minor medals.
Port Stephens Power collect major awards at Central Coast Hunter AFL Awards Night
to this year’s Under 13 Mixed finals.
Other promising Port Stephens juniors to stamp their mark were Jaxon McNamara (Under 9s), Riley Ashpole (Under 11s), Ryan Poole (Under 13s) and Under 17 Girls ace Ella Burggraaff, who were all recipients of Team Achievement Awards.
Ella lined up for the Nelson Bay Marlins Under 17s this season when the Power couldn’t field a girls side in that age group with NSW Schoolgirls representative Maddi Marsh, another Sydney Swans Academy inductee, linking up with Cardiff.
“It was an amazing trip and exciting chapter in my athletics journey,” the Catherine McAuley College student told News Of The Area.
“Competing for my country against top calibre athletes can only be beneficial and I just soaked up the experience,” revealed Dixie, who is the reigning NSW Junior Under 17 triple jump and long jump champion.
The Raymond Terrace Athletics Club product dreams of jumping in the green and gold one day at a Commonwealth or Olympic Games.
A dedicated Conlon has drawn
inspiration from the Australian team’s heroics on the track and field at the recent Paris Olympics, plus the gold medal winning feats of our emerging athletes at the World Junior Championships in Peru.
“I grew up with sprinter Jack Deguara here in Medowie and was so proud and excited when he helped Australia win the Mixed 4 x 400m Relay gold at the World Junior Under 20 titles last week,” quipped Dixie.
“We are close friends with Jack’s family and cheered him all the way,” she added.
Young gun Dixie showed her versatility and skill set at the recent Maitland-Newcastle Diocesan Catholic Secondary Schools
Nelson Bay Golf Club
25 AUGUST – 31 August 2024
26th August
1 1 Bob Beverley 21 2 Rod Daniels 20
Peter Backe-Hansen 22 2 Peter Bowen 22
27th August 2024 Women’s Par Brush Course
Winners. 1 Joan Frost (34) 17
2 Sue Conrades (32) 14 Women’s Stableford Xmas Bush Course
Winners 2 Person Ambrose.
Julie Newsham & Linda drake 71.25 2 Norma Smith & Jenny Frost 72.5 3 Mary Conway & Peri Kennedy 72.75 4 Carmel Walsh & Kerrie Raper 73.5 Wednesday 28th August 2024
Men’s Stableford 19-9: Brush Box Course
Overall Winners
A1 Peter Kent (10) 38
A2 Scott Quinn (6) 37
A3 Neil Edwards (11) 35
B1 Micheal Day (19) 37 c/b
B2 Glen Arndell (20) 37
B3 Mark Twomey (21) 36 c/b
C1 Christopher Dunn (26) 41
The club’s tireless Vice President, Tracey Harley was also recognised on the night as a finalist in the Volunteer of the Year Award category. Port Stephens Power enjoyed a fruitful 2024 campaign by reaching the Under 11 and Under 13 Mixed preliminary finals as well as the Black Diamond Plate Senior Women's finals series.
The Power bowed out of the Under 11 Mixed title race after a 31-2 loss to eventual champions Warners Bay Black at Pasterfield Sports Complex and were beaten 5725 by Saratoga Hawks in the Under 13 Mixed division at Northlakes Oval.
Warners Bay Black defeated Warners Bay White in last Sunday’s Under 11s title decider at Feighan Oval after the Whites had earlier tipped out Nelson Bay Marlins 32-8.
C2 David Hurley (31) 39
C3 Mick Henneberger (24) 36
Men’s Stableford 1-9 Gymea Course
Overall Winners
A1 Ryan Palmer (12) 39
A2 Chris Mawson (11) 38
A3 Graham Luke (11) 37 Cc/b
B1 Peter Burgess (17) 38 c/b
B2 Mark Galloway (16) 38 c/b
B3 Laurence Van Niekerk (17) 38
C1 Peter Johnston (27) 38
C2 Steve Jones ( 24) 36
C3 Yuri Suska (35) 35
Thursday 29th August 2024
Men’s Stableford
Gymea Course
Overall winners:
1 Steven Brown (13) 39
2 John Townsend (25) 36 Women’s 4bbb
Gymea Course:
Overall winners
1 Elaine Jackson & Liz Kalousek 51
2 Helen James & Lorraine Parker 49
3 Ruth Buchanan & Doreen Sutcliff 48
4 Laraine Frost & Olga Bush-Otten 47
5 Carmel Parry & Cathy Johnston 45
Vets Results
1 Barry Lindsay 21
2 Kennett Grant 20
Friday 30th August 2024
Ladies Stableford: Xmas bush Course
Muree Golf Results
By Lee Rankin
Athletics Championships at Hunter Sports Centre where she won all her four events – 100m and 200m sprints, long jump and triple jump. In a productive season opener, the talented teenager capped a memorable meet by jumping 11.09 to clinch the triple jump gold medal and set a new championship record – eclipsing the previous mark of 10.58.
It was an ideal tune up for the NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Athletics Championships on September 16 and the NSW All Schools Championships from September 28 to October 2 at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre at Homebush – two major carnivals on Dixie’s shortlist.
Overall Winners:
1 Janelle Tolhurst (25) 37
2 Jan Bell (37) 35c/b
3 Robyn Kennett (16) 35
Men’s Stableford: Brush box Course
A1 David McGowan (17) 39
A2 Bob Kew (16) 38
A3 Barry Leo (18) 37c/b
A4 Chris Mawson (11) 37c/b
B1 John Elsworth (24) 40
B2 Nick Dyce-McGowan (33) 39
B3 Craig Tucker (26) 38c/b
B4 Ken Scamell (33) 38 Saturday 31st August 2024 Men’s Stableford: Brush Course
A1 Guy Jennings (12) 39
A2 Craig Mackenzie (10) 38 c/b
A3
q Australian Under 18 representative Dixie Conlon broke the triple jump record at the recent MaitlandNewcastle Diocesan Catholic Secondary Schools Athletics Championships at Hunter Sports Centre.
SUDOKU
Boot Camp
PAUL ANTHONY SAUNDERS 10.06.1978 - 05.09.2020
The heartache we feel will last forever we miss your presence and your cheeky smile everyday. Loving you forever and always Mum, Dad, Ben and Annaleise
FREE clean fill, pool excavation in thornton, must be within 5km radius for delivery. Ph 0476 789 721
BEDROOM setting
Charming Queen bed, untarnishable brass detail, dressing table 6 drawers, 2 bedside tables 2 drawers. All GC $150. Pick up only. Text 0411 049 339 F090824
For Sale
DINNER Set Noritake Vintage Issabella, 40 piece in GC $120. Ph 0458 257 676
MEN’S joggers, new size 10, worth $40 will sell for $10. 0493 777 707
SOFA three seat with chase & two cushions, brown fabric easily cleaned, covers removable. $100 0433 210 187
STESSEL Mako runabout, 5.3m alum Mercury OptiMax motor 115hp, GC, low hours, always garaged $25,000. 0418 295 653
MALTESE Shih Tzu puppies. 2 boys, 4 girls. Available from 24/9. Located in Port Stephens BIN# B000616552
Call or text 0474 378 452
Items
7 1/4” Ozita elect saw $20. Alum fold up long ladder, $20. 0499 433 937
GARDEN Tools spades and forks & other assorted. $5 each Workbench, make an offer. 4982 2335
2 x King single beds inc mattresses, rarely used by grandchildren, exc cond. $50. 0417 161 038 Funeral Notices
2 seat leather sofa $100. Nelson Bay 0410 492 885
Notices
GUITAR & Bass tuition Theory muscianship Graduate of Aust Institute of Music Course details www.guitarstudio.net.au Salamander Bay 4984 4731 e101024
3 new womens leather jackets worth $400 each will sell for $100 each Small - medium. 0493 777 707
3 WHEEL mobile cart forward and reverse gears, 2 speeds, 4 lights, canopy, suitable for golf and shopping, ex cond $800. 49972345
Billy doesn’t have what he needs for school. Classifieds 4981 8882
BABY carrier, BabyBjorn new price is over $300 selling for $90 ono. Ph 0412 783 707
BALINESE Chess set as new $70. 4997 0611 F250724
BED, king single GC, no stains, $60 0433 210 187 F040724
BED single, GC, no stains. $60. 0433210187
Courtenay from $1 - $2 each, 3 x Colleen McCullough $1 - $2 each, 2 x Wilbur Smith $2 each. 0404969257
CASUAL 4 seater table setting. GC $50. Pick up only Text only 0411 049 339
CEILING Fan, Lucci Future Eco 48 inch, T5 with 22 watt lite, bedroom size, have two, $60. 0433 210 187 F040724
CHILDREN’S & baby’s clothes, new, winter & summer, make an offer 0493 777 707
DOONAS single x 2, $30 each. Mattress protectors x 2, $10 each. New in packaging. 0408431488 F230524
ELEGANT wrought iron table with glass top and 5 chairs
Please call for photos pickup Thornton $100. 0412783707 F080824
TV hardly used, TCL Smart TV. Unwanted gift. $350. 4982 3521
MOBILE phone, new with sim, never been used. $20. 0493777707
MOBILITY scooters second hand, all good cond, can deliver for details phone 0418 430 643 e050924
CD’s, 50s to 90s hard to finds & rarities Large quantity. $100 49665000 F250724
GOLF cart and new batteries plus golf trailer (TD16HE). $6,750 4997 0435 Re311024
HEATERS, Delongi oil heater $40. Rinnai convection heater $40 Tambrook radiant heater $40. 0487 015 730
HEATERS, electric, from $10, free local delivery 49829225
HELMET, RXT metro small ladies motorbike helmet with shield. $60 0466 880 639
JANOMI sewing machine, ex cond. $50 4997 0611
NEW ladies wool coat cost $120, will sell for $50. Medium. 0493 777 707
WALL mirror, 75cm x 60cm, wood surround $10. 4997 9313 F280324
& 2
WOMENS vanity bedroom chair, gold velveteen cover with back and round seat with a pleated skirt on wheels, retro 1970s, exc cond. $100 ono 49817523 F140324
WOMENS winter clothing size 10-12 quality, near new, nothing over $20. Ph 49385923 for address F200624
PVC pipes, different lengths and widths. $20 for the lot. 4982 2335 F250424
RAYMOND Terrace Cemetery, 2 plots methodist section $1,000 each. 0419 487 038
RECORDS, Scottish and Pipe bands, Irish singers and bands & 4 box sets of classics, call for details. 0487 015 730
12 months rego, 63,600 kms, Rego DHZ61Z exc cond. $30,000 ono Ph 0439 759 616
MAZDA BT50, 3.2L 4X4 King Cab 2018 Many extras, Exc service history, DTV79D $34,500. 0448 835 635
COFFEE table and wall unit, walnut stain $40 each or both for $50. 0423 545 331
COFFEE Table / TV table, black with glass top, 1200 × 600 x 440 high, $60. 0433 210 187
KAYAK suction roller assist to roof rack . $25 Tea Gardens. 0439 870 665 F060624
LARGE quantity “O” gauge model trains Predominately USA prototype, locos, st/die (brass), freight dariours pass. rtr and kit. Make reasonable offer. Ph 0402 583 096 Harry Anna Bay
LAWN roller, $50 ono Raymond Terrace. 0412 585 156
RISOTTO and rice maker, 10 cup. $169 on special, brand new. $69.95 0427 307 580
ROUND table, white 1600cm - 6 beige upholstered chairs. Absolute bargain. Immaculate Modern. Cost $2,000 Freedom . Asking $350. Pick up only Text 0411 049 339
WORK boots, new, size 10, Blacksmith. $40 0493 777 707
TOYOTA Rav4 Cruiser 2007, 214,000 klms, log books, rego 9/5/2025 EXW29N, exc cond $12,000. 0415 678 687
STACER Seaway 435 boat, IBP617N, Honda 40hp 4 stroke motor, low hours, gal trailer R43321 Bimini boat cover, life jackets plus extras. Exc cond. $13,000 ono. Ph 0428 865 938 Re260924
4981 8882
MILLARD Horizon 2001. Rollout awning 12 months rego. Annex N65160. $10,000 Ph 0438 020 040
DINING table with 1500 x 900 x 10 thick black tinted glass top and crome metal frame $100. 0433 210 187
MAKITA hammer drill keyless chuck $35. 49872392
BEST ON THE BOX
FRIDAY
VAN DER VALK
ABC TV, 8.35pm
Glinting with dry wit, the colour and culture of Amsterdam and Marc Warren’s (pictured) hypnotic turn as the wide-eyed detective, this darkly engrossing crime thriller returns with its fourth season of three movie-length episodes. Following the titular, vintage boat-dwelling lawman as he almost single-handedly disrupts the Dutch capital’s criminal underworld, tonight’s compelling stand-alone instalment goes down a winding path, with perhaps the only assurance being the detective’s trademark black get-up.
FRIDAY, September 6
6.00
SUNDAY
RETURN TO PARADISE
ABC TV, 7.30pm
We’ve got some of world’s most beautiful beaches, but it’s still a thrilling surprise that the British-French crime comedy in Paradise has set sail with this Aussie spin-off. After 13 seasons, the delightful whodunit following a fish-out-of-water detective begrudgingly taking up a new post in a sunny Caribbean town has a sparkling new cast and setting for this six-parter. Set in the fictional Dolphin Cove, it’s a starring role for Home and Away’s Anna Samson (pictured) as intriguingly awkward London detective Mackenzie Clarke, who is forced home after being framed.
WEDNESDAY HUMAN ERROR
NBN, 8.40pm Set in Melbourne and inspired by real events, this fast-paced crime series will inevitably draw comparisons to , which is a compliment,
really a
showcase for a compelling female detective and star turn from Wentworth’s Leeanna Walsman (pictured). From an ensemble writing crew responsible for Underbelly, Love My Way and Bump, and with crime reporter John Sylvester as consultant, this six-part series feels fresh and satisfyingly gritty. Dogged detective Holly Rourke (Walsman) is pushed to her limit trying to solve the gangland-style murder of a suburban mother.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.35 Gardening Australia. Tammy Huynh meets a foliage fashionista. 8.35 Van Der Valk. (Mv) Part 2 of 3. A suspect in a murder case appears to be a famous missing, presumed dead, singer. 10.05 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee. (PG, R)
10.55 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG, R) 11.30 ABC Late News.
11.45 Grand Designs. (R) 12.35 We Hunt Together. (Final, Malv, R)
1.20 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
WorldWatch. 7.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour.
Vuelta.
18. H’lights. 8.00 WorldWatch. 9.50
2026
Qualifier.
WorldWatch. 2.00
Was Life. (PG, R) 2.10 World’s Greatest Hotels. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.35 The Cook 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: You May Now Kill The Bride. (2016, Mav, R) 2.00 House Of Wellness. (PG) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great British Landmark Fixers. (Final)
8.30 Ancient Superstructures. (Final)
9.30 Lost Treasures Of Ancient Rome. (R)
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Agent Hamilton. (MA15+v)
12.35 My Brilliant Friend. (Mls, R)
3.30 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.20 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens. Johanna Griggs visits Lang House.
7.20 Football. AFL. Second elimination final. Western Bulldogs v Hawthorn. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.15 Armchair Experts. (M) A panel discusses all things AFL.
12.00 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing.
12.30 Taken. (Mav, R)
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. South Sydney Rabbitohs v Sydney Roosters. From Accor Stadium, Sydney.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the South Sydney Rabbitohs versus Sydney Roosters match, with news and analysis.
10.30 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 9: Late night. Events may include: wheelchair tennis; wheelchair basketball; para equestrian.
12.00 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 9: Post midnight. Events may include: wheelchair tennis; para powerlifting; para swimming finals, para athletics.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa) Hosted by Stacey Solomon. 8.45 MOVIE: The Lost City. (2022, Masv, R) A reclusive romance novelist on a book tour with her cover model gets kidnapped by an eccentric billionaire. Sandra Bullock, Channing Tatum, Daniel Radcliffe. 10.45 10’s Late News. 11.10 The Project. (R) 12.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
(2013, MA15+) 10.45 Late Programs.
6.00
SATURDAY, September 7
6.00 Australian Story: This Is How It Goes – Missy Higgins. (R)
6.30 Back Roads: Kurri Kurri,
(MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Children’s Programs. 7.20pm Bluey. 7.30
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Cumbria: The Lakes & The Coast.
8.25 Secrets Of A Royal Estate: Clarence House. (PGs)
9.20 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (R)
10.15 Scotland’s Extreme Medics. (Mal, R) 11.10 Nordland 99. (Mal) 12.05 Rex In Rome. (PGv, R)
3.30 Billy Connolly: Made In Scotland. (Mal, R)
4.30 Bamay. (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 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. First elimination final. Brisbane Lions v Carlton. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game. 11.00 The Voice. (PGl, R) Hosted by Sonia Kruger. 12.35 Taken. (Mav, R) Bryan gets his first chance in the field. 1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 Drop Dead Weird. (R) Three siblings move to Ireland.
5.00 House Of Wellness. (PG, R)
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. Round 27. Penrith Panthers v Gold Coast Titans. From BlueBet Stadium, NSW. 9.25 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage and analysis of the game between Penrith Panthers and Gold Coast Titans. 10.00 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 10: Night. 10.30 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 10: Late night. Events may include: para cycling road; wheelchair tennis; wheelchair basketball; para equestrian. 12.00 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 10: Post midnight.
6.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) Proud parents are hoping that a lurcher will help their introverted son lose his fear of people.
7.30 Thank God You’re Here. (PGdls, R) Hosted by Celia Pacquola. 8.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Follows the staff at the Animal Welfare League as it tries to find the right fit for a nervous rottweiler. 9.30 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R)
6am The Movie
Show. 6.20 Charade. (1963, PG) 8.25 The Ipcress File. (1965, PG) 10.25 On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, M) 12.40pm La La Land. (2016, M) 3.00 The Importance Of Being Earnest. (1952) 4.50 Dan In Real Life. (2007, PG) 6.40 Clue. (1985, PG) 8.30 There Will Be Blood. (2007) 11.25 Room In Rome. (2010, MA15+) 1.25am Late Programs.
SUNDAY, September 8
6.00
Return To Paradise. (Premiere, Mv)
Unforgotten. (Return, Madl) Human remains are discovered in a newly renovated period property in west London.
9.20 The Queen And Us. (PG, R) A look at the legacy of Queen Elizabeth II.
10.20 Fisk. (PG, R)
10.50 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
12.25 Endeavour. (Mav, R)
1.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Australia Remastered. (R)
4.00 Outback Ringer. (PG, R)
4.30 Art Works. (R)
5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Ottoman Empire By Train.
8.30 9/11: Four Flights. (PGa, R) The stories of four flights on 9/11. 10.05 America After 9/11. (Mav, R) 12.10 Thatcher & Reagan. (PGav, R)
2.10 24 Hours In Emergency. (Mal, R)
3.00 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (Mals, R)
3.55 Hell On Earth: WWII. (Mav, R)
4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) 8.35 7NEWS Spotlight. An exclusive special investigation. 9.35 The Latest: Seven News. 10.05 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Kimberley Killer. (Mav, R) 11.10 Autopsy USA. (Ma) 12.10 Lipstick Jungle. (Mds, R) 1.10 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) Keith is back. Grant enjoys his birthday. Jesse and Paige are not happy.
8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.15 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 11: Late night. Events may include: wheelchair basketball, women’s gold medal match.
12.00 Paralympics Paris 2024. Day 11: Post midnight.
4.00 Paralympics Paris 2024: Pre-Show.
4.30 Paralympics Paris 2024: Closing Ceremony.
6am Dan In Real Life. Continued. (2007, PG) 7.30 Clue. (1985, PG) 9.20 The Kid. (1921, PG) 10.25 The Report. (2019, M) 12.35pm American Pastoral. (2016, M) 2.35 Charade. (1963, PG) 4.40 The Ipcress File. (1965, PG) 6.40 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 8.30 The Way Back. (2010, M) 10.55 Playground. (2021, M, French) 12.20am 13 Assassins. (2010, MA15+, Japanese) 2.40 Late Programs.
MONDAY, September 9
TUESDAY, September 10 6.00
Suspect. (Mal)
House Of Promises. (Msv)
La Jauria. (MA15+dv, R) 3.10 Make Me A Dealer. (PG, R) 4.00 Grayson Perry: Divided Britain. (Ml, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)
My Kitchen Rules. (Return, PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.
The Rookie. (Mv) Nolan and Bailey’s honeymoon is more of a nightmare than dream when it turns into an active crime scene. 10.15 S.W.A.T. (Mav)
The Latest: Seven News.
Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGals)
The Event. (Mav, R)
Home Shopping.
NBC Today.
Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (Mal) Hosted by Scott Cam and Shelley Craft. 8.45 Paralympics Paris 2024: Closing Ceremony. (R) Coverage of the Closing Ceremony. 11.45 La Brea. (Mav) 12.40 Transplant. (MA15+m)
Tipping Point. (PG, R)
Global Shop. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
6am The Ipcress File. Continued. (1965, PG) 7.00 Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 8.50 Jean De Florette. (1986, PG, French) 11.10 There Will Be Blood. (2007) 2.05pm The Kid. (1921, PG) 3.05 Clue. (1985, PG) 4.55 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 7.35 The Last Emperor. (1987, M) 10.35 A Walk In The Woods. (2015, M) 12.30am Salvation Boulevard. (2011, M) 2.25 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys.
8.30 Insight.
9.30 Dateline. 10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 The Point: Road Trip. (R) 11.30 Babylon Berlin. (Mav)
1.20 Illegals. (Malv, R)
3.20 Make Me A Dealer. (R)
4.10 Bamay. (R)
4.40 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
(32) SBS MOVIES (32)
6am The Scarlet And The Black. Continued. (1983, PG) 7.55 Diana. (2013, PG) 10.00 Playground. (2021, M, French) 11.20 The Way Back. (2010, M) 1.45pm Weekend At Bernie’s. (1989, PG) 3.35 Jean De Florette. (1986, PG, French) 5.50 On A Clear Day. (2005, PG) 7.40 Joyride. (2022, M) 9.30 An Unfinished Life. (2005, M) 11.35 Kodachrome. (2017, M) 1.35am The Last Emperor. (1987, M) 4.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.05 Made In Bondi. (Ml) Charlie organises a romantic country sojourn without revealing who else is invited.
First Dates UK. (Ma) Singles experience the thrills of dating.
The Latest: Seven News.
Extended Family. (Final, PGa) 12.10 Holey Moley Australia. (PGl, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
WEDNESDAY, September 11
6am Children’s Programs. 7.20pm
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Secrets Of Our Universe With Tim Peake. 8.30 Dan Snow’s Greatest Discoveries. (R) 9.25 Miniseries: The Sixth Commandment. (Mal)
10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (Premiere, MA15+av) 1.05 Good People. (Mal, R) 3.55 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGl) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.10 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL.
10.10 Air Crash Investigations: Lost Star Footballer. (PGa)
11.10 The Latest: Seven News. 11.40 Talking Footy.
12.40 Stan Lee’s Lucky Man. (Premiere, MA15+av)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 NBN News.
7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (PGl)
8.40 Human Error. (Premiere, Mlv) 9.40 To Be Advised. 10.40 9News Late.
11.10 Ski Rescue Down Under. (PGa)
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 2.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
A Current Affair. (R)
6am Shopping. 6.30 I Escaped To The Country. 7.30 ICU. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 I Escaped To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 ICU. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 I Escaped To The Country. 6.30
6am The 400 Blows. Continued. (1959, PG, French) 6.30 On A Clear Day. (2005, PG) 8.20 Eat Wheaties! (2020, PG) 10.00 Salvation Boulevard. (2011, M) 11.50 A Walk In The Woods. (2015, M) 1.45pm The Mole Agent. (2020, Spanish) 3.25 Diana. (2013, PG) 5.30 Breaker Morant. (1980, PG) 7.30 White Tiger. (2012, M, Russian) 9.30 The Last Castle. (2001, M) 11.55 Late Programs.
September 12
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Great Australian Walks. (PG)
8.25 Junior Doctors Down Under. (M)
9.20 Rebus. (MA15+lv)
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av) 12.20 Devils. (MA15+a, R)
2.20 Miniseries: The Dark Heart. (Mals, R) 3.10 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PGa, R)
One Armed Chef. 2.55 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.25 WorldWatch. 5.20 Forged In Fire: Best Of. 6.05 Letters And Numbers. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: The Iceman. (2012, MA15+) 10.25 Late Programs. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Planet A. 1.30 The Story Of. 1.55 Unknown Amazon. 2.50 The Wine Lovers’ Guide To Australia. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.15 Forged In Fire. 6.05 Letters And Numbers. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 United Gangs Of America. (Premiere) 10.20 Stormy. 12.25am Jesy Nelson: Odd One Out. 1.30 Late Programs.
SBS MOVIES (32) SBS MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
8.30 Abused By Mum: The Ruby Franke Scandal. (M) Charts the rise and fall of Ruby Franke, a “momfluencer” who amassed millions of followers for her parenting tips.
10.00 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop: Michelle Buckingham. (Malsv, R) Ron Iddles revisits notable cases.
11.05 Air Crash Investigations. (PGa, R)
12.05 Magnum P.I. (Mav)
2.00 Home Shopping.
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
Today Early News. 5.30 Today. 6.00 NBN News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Round 8. Wests Tigers v St George
7MATE (64)
6am The Movie
3.50 Eat Wheaties! (2020, PG) 5.30 The Man Who Knew Infinity. (2015, PG) 7.30 In The Heat Of The Night. (1967, M) 9.35 Lions For Lambs. (2007, M) 11.15 Late Programs. 5.45am The Movie Show.
Send News Of The Area your sports club’s results each week by Friday evening for publication on a Thursday. Bowls, golf, tennis, kayaking, cycling, cross country, athletics, fishing etc - you name it, we can publish it in our dedicated weekly Sports Results section. Email your results, relevant photos and captions to
9GO! (83)
9GO! (83)
Powering On
By Chris KARAS
PORT Stephens Power has taken out the prestigious Central Coast Hunter AFL Junior Club of the Year Award for 2024. The progressive Power club received the honour at a special AFL Awards Dinner held recently at the Belmont 16 Footers.
It is a huge achievement by the Port Stephens-based organisation that fielded six teams in the Central CoastHunter Giants Conference junior competitions this season.
Power midfield tyro Jake Marsh was also named the Central Coast Hunter AFL Under 13s Player of the Year.
The Medowie youngster was judged the best and fairest player by the
q Port Stephens Power Coaching Coordinator Aaron Marsh, Secretary Jacquie Ruhl, Vice President Tracey Harley and Technology Officer Peter Harley.