Port Adelaide and the Western Bulldogs have looked into a message sent by Willie Rioli
Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSWillie Rioli has apologised for a private message sent to a Western Bulldogs player that caused a stir and was referred to the AFL
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe league will take no further action after the Port Adelaide forward contacted a teammate of Bulldogs opponent Bailey Dale
It's an unwelcome distraction for the Power ahead of next Saturday night's Showdown against Adelaide
"Port Adelaide is aware of a private message sent by Willie Rioli to a Western Bulldogs player following Saturday afternoon's game between the two clubs," the Power said in a statement on Monday evening
"The matter has now been resolved privately after Willie contacted Bailey Dale from the Bulldogs."
saying it had "reminded both clubs to ensure any communications remain respectful"
Port are coming off a 90-point thrashing from the Bulldogs on Saturday in Ballarat
which featured an on-field skirmish between Rioli and Dale
Rioli can accept a $1000 fine for striking Dale off the ball in the third term
Once the Bulldogs became aware of the text
The Bulldogs will head to Darwin to play Gold Coast on Saturday night
Rioli posted on Instagram after Port's emotion-charged win over Hawthorn
and the backlash prompted him to briefly take leave from the club
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Despite the swim leg being canned this year, organisers say it’s been a successful Ironman event.
Over ten thousand supporters also part of the action – cheering on loved ones as it came down to the wire in both the pros and full race.
retaining the seat of Cowper for the Nationals after a tightly contested race
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAs of 3pm on May 4
the Australian Electoral Commission's two-party preferred count showed Mr Conaghan with 53,624 votes (53.13 per cent)
who narrowly lost to Mr Conaghan in the 2022 election
campaigning on a platform focused on community needs and regional change
Mr Conaghan said he was grateful for the ongoing support
Picture by Mardi Borg"With the poll results now locked and the last of the postal vote counts trickling in
it's time to declare Cowper as 'Nat Retained' and accept the role of your local MP in the 48th Parliament of Australia."
He reflected on the privilege of representing Cowper over the past six years
"Representing Cowper in the halls of Parliament has been an honour and a privilege..
and I am extremely humbled to have been given the opportunity to continue to fight for what we need and deserve on the Mid North Coast."
Mr Conaghan also acknowledged the large number of candidates in this election
with a record 11 candidates vying for the seat
Independent candidate Caz Heise concedes defeat in Cowper
thanking her team and community for their "tireless commitment to the campaign"
Picture supplied"Democracy is alive and well in Australia and particularly in our electorate
with so many willing to put up their hand and say
'I would like to represent our communities and work to improve our region,'" he said
"Your support and guidance [are] invaluable," Mr Conaghan said
he vowed to continue working for the region's future
"I vow to keep shining a spotlight on the real needs of regional families and communities and continue to keep pushing for the changes we need for our electorate to thrive
Caz Heise congratulated Pat Conaghan on his re-election
I'm so proud of the campaign we've run," she said
listening to the needs and hopes of our communities
and showing that a different way of politics is possible."
Ms Heise commended the efforts of her large volunteer team
who knocked on 16,000 doors and ran more than 300 community events throughout the campaign
built a platform of 25 community-backed politics representing a shared vision for our future
and believed in the possibility of change," she said
my family and friends for your unwavering support
and for your tireless commitment to the campaign
Ms Heise said she remains optimistic about the future
acknowledging the momentum gained from the campaign
"What this community has built together over the past eight months is something special," she said
Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily
KULAKAUSKAS (Nee Hassan) - 18/1/1945 - 31/3/2025
Funeral Service Tuesday 8th April at 10am
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLet's talk about end-of-life planning
with the support of community services that assist with aging
Join a free Community Conversation led by Palliative Care NSW in partnership with CWA Wauchope
Healthy North Coast Primary Health Network
and Mid North Coast NSW Local Health District
Free afternoon tea and resource kits for all participants
if you have a serious illness or are currently caring for someone with a serious illness; if you are starting to realise your parents are getting older and you need to start thinking about what supports are available for them or if you just want to be better informed to support your community
May 12 from 1.30pm-3pm at the Wauchope CWA Hall (behind the clock tower)
The next dinner meeting for Port Macquarie Lighthouse VIEW Club is at the Port Macquarie Golf Club on Wednesday
Bookings to Lois 0405 192 490 prior to 5pm Sunday
who is an executive sales manager for Nutrimetics
Guests warmly welcomed to join us for friendship and connect with a supportive network of women
VIEW (Voice Interests and Education of Women) Clubs offer friendship, inspiring guest speakers, social events and promotes the recognition of women as valued community members. Exclusively supporting the education of Australian children experiencing disadvantage through The Smith Family. For further information on VIEW clubs, visit www.view.org.au
Port Macquarie Lighthouse VIEW Club extends an invitation to a Fashion Show and morning tea
May 17 from 10am-12pm at the Tenison Woods Centre
contact Karen on 0409 836 711 or Lorraine 0410 423 406 prior to Friday
Bring your friends and join us for an enjoyable morning of fashion and friendship
The Mid North Coast community is invited to come together to celebrate difference and diversity on Saturday
May 17 with a 2.5km walk from Town Beach (8am) and then coffee (and rainbow cupcakes) at Salty Crew (9am)
People are invited to wear their brightest rainbow gear
to bring their family and friends and show up for inclusion
The event will coincide with the International Day Against Homophobia
After three decades of animal-loving supporters coming together to fight animal cruelty
the RSPCA Million Paws Walk will be held for the final time ever on Sunday
Enjoy a stylish afternoon of high tea at Port City Bowling Club on Sunday, May 25 from 2pm. There will be fashion from Donna Donna and Portofino stores, featuring exotic teas and accessories from World Par-Tea. The event helps to raise funds for the Hastings Cancer Trust. Tickets are $50 per person and includes a donation. To book a ticket, visit https://hastingscancertrust.org.au
Rainbow Bricks is excited to announce the return of Port Macquarie Brickfest: A LEGO Fan Event on Sunday
The Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival celebrates the wonderful variety of food
wine and beer offered by the region's farmers
as well as local retailers and restaurants
The event also provides a brilliant opportunity to talk with local foodies and taste their delicious fare
which will be available from 10am to 4pm on Sunday
Indigenous voices are being featured in a Port Macquarie Museum exhibition for the first time
Barayal Bila (River Song) tells the story of Dungang 'Hastings River'
acknowledging the beautiful waterways from the mountains to the sea
Aunty Rhonda Radley worked with the local museum and the Powerhouse Museum
as part of the Extending Storyplace project with Museums and Galleries of NSW to help create the exhibit
The exhibition is now showing at the Port Macquarie Museum
Exhibition and NSW Seniors Festival Open House
opened at the Port Macquarie Museum on Monday
]'Fibre Flair!' features newly created artworks by Port Macquarie U3A textile and fibre artists inspired by items from the Port Macquarie Museum collection
exhibition now showing at Port Macquarie Museum
Picture supplied by Port Macquarie Museum.Lake Cathie Community Hub
Looking for something to do on a Thursday afternoon
Bring your friends or come and make new ones
The event is on every Thursday from 3.30-5.30pm at the Lake Cathie Community Hall
There are many local markets on the Mid North Coast. Just go to the following online guide to visit one near you: Markets around our region
If you have a community event or activity to share, please submit the details via our online form or send an email to portnews@austcommunitymedia.com.au
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLake Cathie's Brad Collins
Port Macquarie's Damon Moroney and Sydney's Patrick Hunter have been working hard on bringing their creations to life at Phillips Lane
The location is set to become a vibrant youth precinct on Friday, June 6, as part of ArtWalk.
The youth space is being supported by The Cage (home of all ages gigs and live music) with epic staging
Port Macquarie's Damon Moroney (bottom right) and Sydney's Patrick Hunter (top right) have been working hard on bringing their creations to life at Phillips Lane
Pictures by Liz Langdale.It's Brad Collins' first time to use spray cans for a mural but said he's been grateful to connect with other artists to gain skills and experience
but he said using the spray can was a "necessary leap to take"
Mr Collins said he's grateful for the opportunity to showcase his art in a prominent place in town
The weather has posed a challenge for the artists
as they've had to contend with strong winds and rainfall while trying to paint
"You have to adapt to the landscape and change your plans as you go," he said
Port Macquarie's Damon Moroney said it's always an honour to create murals
The whale mural coming to life at Phillips Lane
Picture by Liz Langdale.He said the transformation of laneways is amazing and it has flow-on benefits to help deter graffiti and boost tourism
Mr Moroney turned his painting hobby into a business called Iknograffix in 2014 after breaking his neck.
His murals have become well-known across the Port Macquarie-Hastings including those at Herons Creek
Kendall Public School and Hastings Public School
Mr Moroney's mural at Phillips Lane incorporates features of the town which have become famous such as its wild koala population and historical lighthouse
Sydney's Patrick Hunter (Inkhunter) has been creating large-scale mural projects in Australia and overseas for around a decade
Mr Hunter is passionate about the environment and said he hopes the image is uplifting and positive for people who view it
The artwork's colours also reflect and change across the day and at night
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has allocated $110,000 for Artwalk from its budget and is looking at other innovative ways
Council was also successful in obtaining NSW Government grant funding via the Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program for the transformation of Phillips Lane
A council spokesperson said ArtWalk is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the town's creative spirit
and support the growth of the local arts scene
April 27 was the next step in the career of Port Macquarie Magpies junior Tom Ryan
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueRyan
made his debut for the Sydney Swans reserves against the Gold Coast Suns in round five of the competition at People First Stadium
Ryan said it was great to get the opportunity to pull on the red and white
It's definitely a big step up from being in the [Sydney Swans] academy each week," he said
"To go and represent the Swans reserves is a whole new level."
Ryan was one of two debutants from the academy on the Gold Coast against a Suns side littered with talent
Port Macquarie Magpies junior Tom Ryan after his Sydney Swans VFL debut on Sunday
Picture suppliedDespite the 14.9 (93) to 6.10 (46) score line in which he had 10 disposals and two tackles
Ryan was impressed with the organisation that went into the away match
"It was a real professional environment from the flight up there until the flight home," he said
"To step up was a really good experience to see what the next level is about."
the speed was an element that stood out to Ryan
"The game is a lot faster [than the academy matches]," he said
so it's their bigger bodies and they've got more experience."
The majority of the Suns' squad also had AFL contracts
while about half of the Swans' side was listed in the top grade
Ryan spent the first half of the contest in defence
It's a starting position that Ryan has been moved to at the start of the season
"I've been a key forward pretty well for as long as I've been playing footy with the academy
I've been switched as a key defender and I've really liked that," he said
"The coach from the academy has been really happy with how I've been going down back
So I think I'm going to be down there for the rest of the year."
Ryan has been involved in the northern academy series and played his first match for the Swans in the Coates Talent League on May 3
Ryan is also tied to his club side Sydney University in AFL Sydney
Ryan's goal is to make the Allies (NSW/ACT
QLD and TAS) as an over-age player for the upcoming national championships
Ryan was not part of the 2024 squad that won the carnival for the first time
"It comes down to just playing good footy and seeing if I can make the squad or not," Ryan said
get the game in the national championships."
Lucas is a journalist with the Port Macquarie News. He completed his Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree through Charles Sturt University and previously worked with the Wimmera Mail-Times. Lucas is originally from Newcastle, New South Wales.
Photo: AP PHOTOUS President Donald Trump's tariffs are increasingly clogging up the wheels of a world economy that for decades were greased by predictable and relatively free trade
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBig-name multinationals right down to niche e-commerce players last week cut sales targets
warned of job cuts and reviewed their business plans
while major economies revised down growth prospects amid bleak data read-outs
While financial markets are betting the US and China will pull back from an all-out trade war and that Trump will cut deals to avert higher tariffs on others
the sheer uncertainty of where this ends has become a major drag factor in itself
"US tariff policy is a serious negative shock for the world in the near term," said Isabelle Mateos y Lago
group chief economist at French bank BNP Paribas
The uncertainty created by US tariffs has become a major drag on financial markets
(AP PHOTO)"The US tariffs end-game may be further away and at a higher level than previously thought," she said of blanket US tariffs currently set at a baseline of 10 per cent alongside higher
sector-specific charges on products such as steel
Beijing said on Friday it was evaluating an offer from Washington to hold talks over 145 per cent US tariffs
to which it has responded with 125 per cent levies
Trump's administration has also suggested it is close to deals with nations including India
South Korea and Japan to avert more tariffs in weeks to come
companies such as Swedish appliances maker Electrolux slashed its outlook while Volvo Cars
computer gadget maker Logitech and drinks giant Diageo abandoned their targets on the uncertainty
The tariff outlook prompted the Bank of Japan to cut its growth forecasts last week
while trade tensions were cited by forecasters in growth outlook downgrades for the Netherlands and the Middle East and North Africa region
China's factory activity contracted at the fastest pace in 16 months in April
while a similar UK readout showed British factory exports in April shrinking at their sharpest pace in almost five years
Strong economic data from Germany could be down to a spike in activity before tariffs take effect
(AP PHOTO)Economists were quick to caution that a stronger-looking read-out from export-focused Germany might largely be due to factories front-loading business to get it out of the door before the tariffs took effect
while front-loading may also have helped India to a 10-month high in manufacturing growth in April
analysts noted the nation - which faces lower tariffs than China and towards which Apple has shifted some output - could end up a genuine winner
"India is well positioned to be an alternative to China as a supplier of goods to the US in the immediate term," emerging markets economist Shilan Shah at Capital Economics said
predicting punitive tariffs on China were "here to stay"
Photo: AP PHOTOYemen's Houthi rebels say they will impose a "comprehensive" aerial blockade on Israel by repeatedly targeting its airports
in response to Israel expanding its operations in Gaza
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Iran-aligned Houthis claimed responsibility for a missile strike that hit near Israel's Ben Gurion Airport
saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to retaliate
Most attacks from Yemen have been intercepted by Israel's missile defence systems
though a drone strike hit Tel Aviv in 2024
Sunday's missile was the only one of a series launched since March that was not intercepted
The Houthis' Humanitarian Operations Coordination Centre
a body set up in 2024 to liaise between Houthi forces and commercial shipping operators
issued the warning about targeting Israeli airports
saying Ben Gurion Airport would be the top target
The statement attached an email it said was sent to the International Air Transport Association
and the United Nations' International Civil Aviation Organisation
Houthi forces called "upon all international airlines to take this announcement into serious consideration ..
and to cancel all their flights to the airports of the criminal Israeli enemy
in order to safeguard the safety of their aircraft and passengers"
A ceasefire between Hamas and Israel collapsed in March and air and ground attacks have resumed
(AP PHOTO)Israel's security cabinet approved plans for an expanded operation in the Gaza Strip
adding to signs that attempts to stop the fighting and return hostages held by Palestinian militant group Hamas have made no progress
Since the collapse of an earlier ceasefire agreement in March
Israeli troops have been carving out wide buffer zones in Gaza
squeezing the 2.3 million population into an ever narrower zone in the centre of the enclave and along the coast and shutting off the entry of aid trucks
Aid groups have warned the Israeli blockade risks a humanitarian disaster
Israel's campaign on Gaza has laid waste to much of the enclave and so far killed more than 52,000 people
That Hamas offensive killed 1200 people and led to 251 people being taken hostage
Photo: AP PHOTORussia continues to press its offensive in eastern Ukraine with high intensity
with more than 200 clashes in a single day
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueUkraine's General Staff said on Facebook fighting had intensified particularly around the strategic city of Pokrovsk in the Donetsk region
where Ukrainian forces said they repelled 70 attacks over the course of Sunday
The town serves as a key transport hub and Russian forces are reportedly approaching from the east
The information could initially not be independently verified
Attempts by Russia to break through to the west into the neighbouring industrial area of Dnipropetrovsk have so far been repelled by Ukraine
Russia's air defence systems destroyed 26 Ukrainian drones overnight
TASS news agency reported on Monday citing Russia's defence ministry data
The attacks come despite ongoing diplomatic efforts by the United States to broker a ceasefire between Moscow and Kiev
US President Donald Trump recently proposed an unconditional 30-day truce
a plan Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy accepted
Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected the offer
Putin has declared a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire to coincide with the annual Victory Parade on Moscow's Red Square to mark the end of World War II
The ceasefire is scheduled to start at midnight Wednesday-Thursday in Moscow and end at midnight Saturday-Sunday
Kiev has rejected the limited pause and demanded that the ceasefire be extended to 30 days
"The Russians are asking for a ceasefire on May 9 and are themselves firing at Ukraine every day
This is cynicism of the highest order," Zelenskiy wrote on Telegram on Sunday
Photo: Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOSYears after his wife died while kayaking
a man has been accused of murder and trying to claim more than $1 million in life insurance
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueGraeme Davidson
has been charged over the death of his wife Jacqueline
drowned while kayaking with her husband at Lake Samsonvale
She could not be revived when they returned to shore and died at the scene despite onlookers and emergency services performing CPR
Her death was considered an accidental drowning
But police investigations for a report to the coroner uncovered further evidence and a homicide probe was launched "18 months to two years" after her death
"Police are alleging the male person was involved in the drowning in the lake," Detective Acting Inspector Steve Windsor told reporters on Monday
Graeme Davidson was charged with murder and fraud after a 'complex and lengthy' investigation
(HANDOUT/QUEENSLAND POLICE SERVICE)Under Operation Victor Harlow
detectives gathered witness and expert statements including information about the lake's conditions at the time of Ms Davidson's death
The "complex and lengthy" probe led to Davidson being charged with murder
fraud and attempted fraud following his arrest in Brisbane on Sunday
"The cause of death was drowning but it was a case of talking to witnesses and gaining further evidence that the matter appeared suspicious," Insp Windsor said
"Incidents are not always what they initially seem
so I thank the detectives for their diligent work in this lengthy and arduous investigation."
Insp Windsor said the married couple were living together but police would allege there was "some form of breakdown in the relationship" at the time of Ms Davidson's death
He said police would allege Davidson made a life insurance claim and attempted to make another after his wife's death
confirming they related to the fraud charges
"The combined life insurance was in excess of $1 million," Insp Windsor said
Police evidence included the lake's conditions at the time of the woman's death
(Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)He said Davidson had been living in Thailand for a "number of years"
But Insp Windsor said police chose "not to go down that path" and instead charged Davidson when he visited Brisbane for family reasons
Davidson was refused police bail and his matter went before Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday
He did not appear in court and was remanded in custody after his matter was adjourned until May 19
Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSA state Liberal leader has brushed off his party's federal election thumping and dismissed concerns its brand has become "toxic"
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueVictoria's opposition leader Brad Battin and his state party were riding high in the polls before being delivered a brutal reality check on Saturday
Voters took a hatchet to the party in Melbourne
with his federal colleagues in Deakin and Menzies to the city's east projected to lose their seats
The Liberals also failed to reclaim Aston after losing the federal seat to Labor in a 2023 by-election
and a quest to claim others in Melbourne's outer suburbs looks set to fall short
Liberal leader Brad Battin says he's confident of an election platform Victorians can have faith in
(Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)Peter Dutton pitched a national policy to build nuclear reactors at ageing coal-fired power stations
including to the state's east in Gippsland
Mr Battin sought to distance himself from the plan during the campaign and claims he was not stunned by voters' repudiation of the Liberals
"I don't believe the Liberal brand is toxic at all," he told reporters at Morwell in Victoria's east
"By the time we get to the next (state) election ..
I am confident that we can go with a policy platform that people can have faith in."
Victorian voters head to the state polls in November 2026
seen as a drag on the federal party's support
was only invited to appear once with Anthony Albanese on the campaign trail
But she crowed about the result being vindication of Labor's management of the state
where it has spent all but four years in power since 1999
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made only one campaign appearance with Premier Jacinta Allan
(Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)Another issue to cross federal and state lines over the course of the campaign was Melbourne's controversial Suburban Rail Loop
a planned 90km orbital rail line from Cheltenham to Werribee via the airport
The mega rail project was in the gun when Mr Dutton threatened to pull Labor's $2.2 billion in committed federal funding if he won government
Ms Allan suggested the election result provided a renewed mandate to build the $34.5 billion project
particularly in seats where the line's eastern section is slated to pass through
"This project has the support of the Victorian community," she said at a tunnel boring machine launch site in Clarinda on Monday
Photo: Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOSKEY NARRATIVES TO WATCH FOR IN ROUND 10 OF THE NRL
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueARE PENRITH BACK TO THEIR BEST
The Panthers' 32-8 defeat of Brisbane at Magic Round was their most complete performance of a poor season to date
Nathan Cleary was at his creative best playing off the back of his physical and defensively enthusiastic teammates
but coach Ivan Cleary shrugged at suggestions the four-time reigning premiers were back to their best
The Panthers face North Queensland this Saturday
Jye Gray and Peter Mamouzelos joined a South Sydney casualty ward now bursting at the seams
Wayne Bennett tipped only Latrell Mitchell (suspension) would return for this weekend's clash against Brisbane
meaning they'll be without more than 1,000 games of NRL experience
Brisbane five-eighth Ezra Mam has cleared the nine-game suspension he incurred for drug driving so is available for selection in Friday night's clash against Souths
The severely understrength Rabbitohs loom as an easy kill to help Mam get his eye in
but coach Michael Maguire has not yet made a decision as to whether the five-eighth will return via reserve grade
Canberra's golden point win over top-four hopefuls Melbourne improved their record to 7-2 and lifted the Raiders to second place on the ladder
they'll face the only side higher on the ladder - Canterbury - for a test of their heavyweight status and could finish the round atop the ladder with a win
There's two rounds left for players to push their cases for State of Origin
Mitch Moses and Jarome Luai were both strong at Magic Round in pursuit of a NSW halves spot
while Tom Dearden and Cam Munster are jostling for the five-eighth position next to Queensland captain Daly Cherry-Evans
Jacob Kiraz and Terrell May are leading contenders for NSW debuts as well
specifically same-sex marriage and partnerships
Picture by Gabriel FowlerHAMILTON Baptist Church has been kicked out of the NSW & ACT Baptist Association because of its stance on same-sex marriage
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe decision was made at the Baptist Assembly held over the weekend and also impacts Canberra Baptist Church
which has also been expelled from the association
A statement from the association said it was governed by its churches
They also have a shared identity and an agreed basis for associating together
including a "long-established statement on marriage that was reviewed and reaffirmed in 2022"
"Marriage is a covenant relationship ordained by God as a lifelong faithful union of one man and one woman
Sexual intimacy outside such a marriage relationship is incompatible with God's intention for us as his people."
In stark contrast to that, the following message appears on the Hamilton Baptist Church website: "We welcome people who are LGBTQI and celebrate the formation of lifelong intimate partnerships whether same-gender or opposite-gender".
Lead pastor Andrew Dodd took up his post at the Hamilton Baptist church in 2003, and describes the church as embracing LGBTQI+ affirming theology.
He has known for some years that his church was in a somewhat precarious position within the NSW Baptist denomination and was also aware the issue was being put to a vote at the weekend.
"It's been coming for a long time," Mr Dodd said on Monday (May 5).
There were some mixed feelings about the expulsion, but Mr Dodd said the congregation was feeling confident in their identity and was moving ahead with optimism and enthusiasm.
"We could have withdrawn from the process anytime in the past six years but we wanted the organisation to have some accountability as to who they were removing," Mr Dodd said.
The church was already going down the path of creating a new association known as the 'Open Baptists', he said, along with Canberra and five others.
"We didn't want to be lone rangers," Mr Dodd said.
Members of the church have expressed their disappointment in the move in a video posted on the church's website.
One woman said she was heartbroken that the church couldn't now be a part of the broader association.
Another member asked whether he was really being Christian, if he wasn't loving towards members of the "rainbow community", while a mother of four, with two gender non-conforming children, spoke about the value of acceptance she'd experienced at the church.
The Association said the decision was the outcome of a clear process previously agreed by the Assembly, and included significant engagement with both churches.
"We don't hold any animosity toward Canberra Baptist and Hamilton Baptist churches," the statement said.
"We still respect and love them as churches and as people. We have processes and resources in place to continue to support them throughout this transition and into the future. This has been a challenging process, but many friendships remain and we wish both churches well."
2GB SydneyA MAN accused of repeatedly firing a gun into the air from a moving vehicle in three separate incidents at Toronto and Tenambit has been sent for a mental health assessment
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBrandon Rogan
is accused of filming himself driving through Toronto about 4pm on Sunday when he held a firearm out of the window
was then posted online and later passed onto police
Police said the firearm was allegedly fired again from the vehicle at Tenambit about 9.35pm on Sunday
Port Stephens-Hunter police were notified and launched an investigation into the shootings and at 2.35am on Monday were making inquires into a vehicle on Burley Street at Tenambit when the 26-year-old again allegedly fired a shot into the air from the parked vehicle
Police said they were assisted by PolAir in tracking the vehicle from Tenambit to a home on Coal Point Road at Coal Point where police and specialist officers from the Tactical Operations Unit arrested Mr Rogan about 5.15am
was also arrested at the home and the pair were taken to Toronto police station
A search of the home allegedly revealed a firearm
Police said investigations revealed Mr Rogan was disqualified from driving
subject to a Firearms Prohibition Order and did not have permission to drive the vehicle
including three counts of firing a firearm in a public place and refused bail by police
His matter was mentioned in Toronto Local Court on Monday afternoon when Mr Rogan was sent for a mental health assessment
He did not enter any pleas or apply for bail
Ms O'Connor was charged with concealing a serious indictable offence when she appeared in Toronto Local Court on Monday
She did not enter a plea and was refused bail overnight until Tuesday
Police have said there were no reports of any person being injured or any property being damaged
Sage Swinton is a news reporter who was born and bred in the Hunter. She has been with the Newcastle Herald since June 2020.
Photo: Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOSTeal independents Monique Ryan and Zoe Daniel are clinging on in their election races after strong postal returns for the Liberals
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueDr Ryan's margin over Liberal candidate Amelia Hamer in the high-profile seat in Melbourne's leafy inner east has shrunk to 1891 votes following postal returns
The former paediatric neurologist declared victory on Saturday night
with her husband holding up a "Kooyong we did it!" sign before she addressed supporters
But Dr Ryan said she no longer felt safe in the contest
declaring the outcome was a "50-50" proposition
in (election analyst) Antony Green we trusted," she told ABC Radio Melbourne on Monday morning
"But postal votes have been very much pro the conservative side so I think at this point Kooyong is very much in the air
Independent candidate Zoe Daniel is fighting to retain her seat as postal votes are counted
(Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)Ms Daniel's lead over Liberal candidate Tim Wilson has dwindled to fewer than 100 votes after postal returns
The former journalist said on Sunday it would take days for the result to be confirmed
If Mr Wilson or Ms Hamer are able to turn the tables on the teals
they're likely to be the Liberal's only federal representatives in metropolitan Melbourne
Liberal frontbencher Michael Sukkar has lost his ultra marginal seat of Deakin
with Menzies too close to call as up-and-coming MP Keith Wolahan narrows Labor's lead
Aaron Violi is projected to hold onto the neighbouring seat of Casey after trailing Labor's Naomi Oakley on the night but fellow Liberal Zoe McKenzie's battle with independent Ben Smith is too close to call
who survived a primary vote swing of five per cent against him
said the Liberals "double trouble" attack on Anthony Albanese and Premier Jacinta Allan failed to land with voters
"It just didn't cut through at all," he said
Labor's Sarah Whitty is ahead of Greens leader Adam Bandt in Melbourne and long-time Labor MP Peter Khalil leads Wills over the Greens former state leader Samantha Ratnam
But Lisa Chester's race with Nationals candidate Andrew Lethlean in Bendigo
Ms Allan claimed credit for Labor's stunning result in Victoria when speaking to reporters on Sunday
declaring it wasn't in spite of her government's work but because of it
Deputy Prime Minster Richard Marles wasn't so sure
suggesting people voted on federal issues and the choice between Mr Albanese and Peter Dutton
"I was confident in the context of Victoria ..
that as we got closer to the election people would ultimately see that that was the choice," he said
Former Liberal strategist turned pollster Tony Barry led off recriminations of the party on election night
calling the state branch a "broken institution"
He noted state Liberal leader Brad Battin promoted outspoken MP Moira Deeming to become his "representative to the western suburbs" during the campaign as she continues to pursue former leader John Pesutto for legal costs following her defamation trial win
Link copiedShareShare resultsBy chief election analyst Antony Green
posted Fri at 2:00pmFriday 2 May 2025 at 2:00pmFri 2 May 2025 at 2:00pm
Updated 1h ago1 hours agoMon 5 May 2025 at 12:05pm
updated 7h ago7 hours agoMon 5 May 2025 at 6:04am
Cowan | Cunningham
On the mid-north coast of NSW, Cowper covers 7,271 square kilometres and runs from Port Macquarie to Coffs Harbour, including Kempsey, South West Rocks, Bellingen and Dorrigo in between. The population and economics of the electorate are dominated by tourism and retirement services in Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie, but with significant rural industries in the rest of the electorate.
Loses 2,400 voters in northern Coffs Harbour to Page which nudges the National margin versus an Independent up a point from 2.3% to an estimated 2.4%. See polling place result map below for detail of the boundary change.
(Victories by a party of government are indicated by thick coloured underlining.)
Based on 2022 results, Cowper has a National Party two-candidate preferred margin of 2.4% versus Independent Caz Heise. Based on an alternate two-party preferred count, the National margin would be 9.8% versus Labor.
Vigors has worked as an Operating Room Assistant and in government community services, helping people deal with government and get needed support. He has been involved in surf lifesaving, the union movement and helping people with a disability. In 2017 Vigors was awarded an Australian Services Medal by the Australian Government for services to surf life-saving. He was the Labor candidate for Oxley at the 2023 NSW election.
Jackel has been married for 36 years and raised a family of 5 adult children with his wife. He has had a varied work background which includes the operation of an IT consultancy, event management for charities, pastoral work with a number of churches and most recently operating a new small business.
Firefly has been a social worker for 15 years working with homelessness, mental health, drug and alcohol, youth, and aged care.
FUSION | Planet Rescue | Whistleblower Protection | Innovation
Born and raised one of 12 children in Port Macquarie, Walsh has built a diverse career that spans labouring, operating his own landscaping business, and serving as Campus Manager and Building Project Manager at Kempsey Adventist School. He later worked as a school chaplain, where he supported the next generation with guidance and care
AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time)
Picture by Marina NeilAn aborted police pursuit
and a stolen vehicle were part of a three-day police operation across the Hunter
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAbout 10.40pm on Saturday
Port Stephens-Hunter police were patrolling Charles Street
when they tried to stop an SUV for a random drug test
police followed the car along Seaham Road before stopping because of safety concerns
Traffic and Highway Patrol officers saw the vehicle on Hinton Road
before it was later found abandoned on Phoenix Park Road
Police arrested a 28-year-old man nearby and seized what was alleged to be methylamphetamine and a knife
Officers also found the car was reported stolen from Adamstown on Thursday
The man was arrested as part of Operation Soteria with help from Northern Region
Port Stephens-Hunter and Hunter Valley police as well as Traffic and Highway Patrol
He was taken to Maitland Police Station where he was charged with not stopping for a police pursuit
He was refused bail at Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday and will appear at Maitland Local Court on Monday
Eleven people were arrested during the operation
and 18 people and nine vehicles were searched
More than 140 roadside breath tests were conducted
with nine returning positive results for drugs
Police arrested a 26-year-old man on Millfield Street
south of Kurri Kurri on Friday May 2 on alleged domestic violence charges
He was wanted on an outstanding warrant and a breach of apprehended violence order (AVO)
The man was taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with contravening an AVO
prohibited drug and hinder or resist police officers in the execution of duty
He was refused bail to appear at Cessnock Local Court on Friday
where he was refused bail to appear at Newcastle Local Court on Wednesday
Journalist at the Newcastle Herald. Email me at jessica.belzycki@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Photo: Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOSKEY STORYLINES TO WATCH FOR IN ROUND NINE OF THE AFL SEASON
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueCROWS HOT
They say form goes out the proverbial window when it comes to clashes between South Australia's bitter rivals Adelaide and Port Adelaide
The Power will hope so after suffering a 90-point loss to the Bulldogs
which joins their 91-point drubbing from Collingwood in round one as the two heaviest defeats of coach Ken Hinkley's 13-year tenure
PRESSURE ON JUSTIN LONGMUIR AHEAD OF HUGE PIES CLASH
Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir is a man under pressure after a humiliating 61-point loss to St Kilda and the spotlight will be firmly on the underperforming Dockers on Thursday night when they host Collingwood at Optus Stadium
The Magpies will come off a five-day break for the Perth trip and coach Craig McRae says "watch this space" about team changes
If the Magpies take a depleted line-up west and still win
West Coast are 0-8 in a disastrous start to Andrew McQualter's tenure as coach
but Sunday's clash with fellow strugglers Richmond (2-6) at the MCG gives the Eagles a chance to get off the mark
Co-captain Oscar Allen is set to play in defence for a third straight game
and the responsibility on him will be huge after Jeremy McGovern was ruled out with concussion
Former Western Bulldogs player Bailey Smith has had a dig at his old club
saying he'd rather be playing for Geelong in front of a huge MCG crowd than at the Ballarat construction site
It sparked a cheeky war of words with Marcus Bontempelli
three weeks out from red-hot midfielder Smith's first game against the Dogs since his high-profile switch
HOW DO THE BOMBERS HANDLE THEIR INJURY CARNAGE
Essendon looked all at sea against North Melbourne when defensive chief Jordan Ridley went down with a hamstring injury
The Bombers will have to take on rejuvenated Sydney - and face several weeks - without key interceptor Ridley
while Harry Jones and Jade Gresham are also injured
Melbourne's revival from a horror 0-5 start has so far included wins over Fremantle
Richmond and West Coast - all sides who sit outside the top eight
But the challenges quickly get far more difficult
starting with red-hot Hawthorn at the MCG in round nine
That test is followed by a tough trip to the Gabba to face reigning premiers Brisbane
Picture by Marina NeilI AM beyond tired of the ongoing violence towards women
Australian Femicide Map reports 24 Australian women have been killed this year between January 13 and April 25
and why are our politicians virtually silent on this
Our basic right to exist freely in public is being ripped away
Most recently it has been on the Fernleigh Track
a place that should offer peace and freedom
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueHow have we allowed this to become normal
Where our presence in public spaces is treated like a risk we are taking
and live without being blamed for the violence committed against us
We are done being told to be careful or stay quiet and alert
This is not about individual men's feelings
this is about a culture that protects perpetrators and burdens women with the cost of survival
until it's none you do not get to tell us how to feel
we have the right to be loud and we absolutely have the right to be safe
OVER Easter I travelled to a small town on the northwest slopes and plains called Bingara
A huge number of people were free camping in the district on the Gwydir
Come Saturday I noticed the local IGA had people lined up almost out the doors trying to buy their Easter supplies
The reason for the queue was internet wasn't working in the town
I'm told the Telstra repeater station was either down for maintenance or just down
Double Bay or Merewether without internet every week
How does the 12th richest country in the world ignore this all-too-common bush problem
Telstra says if you're not happy use another provider
During this visit a local developed a medical issue
But they do have a multi-purpose centre (small hospital) well equipped to deal with medical problems
Easy - just teleconference a big city hospital for guidance
ten hours had passed before access could be established
The staff at MPS are amazing like all medical professionals
I believe it's a Hunter area health facility and problem
stump up the funds for a better internet link to the centre
more expensive than the non-existing service
Politicians should hang their heads in shame
I find that I still have so many questions that remain unanswered
Why has no maternity wear company designed clothing for the elderly males whose chest has slipped to waist level
Whose idea was it to make so many grocery items difficult to open and double sealed
unscrewed the cone-shaped top but no sauce came out
I then discovered that as well as the screw on top
there was a cap under it; a cap with a pull-out tab the size of an atom
Why do government departments continually issue new complicated forms for the elderly to fill in
internet connection and a degree in computer science
How did Noah get over a million species of animals onto his boat
was the ark a convertible to enable headroom for the giraffes
Perhaps others of the elderly brigade could add questions of their own
I WAS interested in Colin Rowlatt's letter ("Sydney can't keep getting cash at our expense"
It is a major engineering project (not yet completed)
A couple of friends and I rode the Metro when it terminated at Chatswood in about 2019
The Metro will ultimately be extended to Bankstown
I learned that the Metro cars are made by the French multinational engineering firm Alstom and built in Andhra Pradesh
where they are loaded onto lorries to be delivered to the service centre at Tallawong
Of course Sydney isn't the only place where state government money is being spent
One has only to look at the Newcastle Inner-City Bypass
which is nearing completion for $450 million
and the extension of the M1 Motorway from Blackhill to Raymond Terrace for $2.1 billion
We here in the Hunter are not being left behind
THE attitude of both major political parties towards gambling advertising is appalling
Despite the damning figures revealed in Garry Linnell's column ("Hey Albo
the fact that they have refused to take any action in my opinion borders on corruption
Handouts from gambling companies are staggering
Surely the time for drastic action has arrived and it should be immediately on the agenda of our newly elected parliament
the NRL is finally doing something about high tackles
Many are tackles just using the shoulder with no arms
and coaches and so-called greats are complaining
Ask the older players now going through all their concussions and consequences what they think
Congratulations Chelsea Thomson on your opinion piece ("Young people: it's a privilege to vote
I found your contribution to be refreshing and inspiring
Keep contributing opinion pieces with your thoughts as many will welcome your opinion and ideas
Matt Ophir ("Offshore wind is no paradise"
opines that offshore wind farms are a blight on the horizon
The ones I've seen are rather gracefully hypnotic
They are certainly a better view than open cut coal mines
He frets that an exclusion zone will prevent fishers from catching any fish that grow around them
There are also exclusion zones at Chernobyl and Fukushima
Offshore wind farms will be an asset for our region
perhaps they could be combined with tidal power
Photo: Con Chronis/AAP PHOTOSWestpac shares have sold off after posting weaker than expected first-half profit
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAustralia's oldest bank was the worst performer of the big four
down more than three per cent per cent to $32.40 around 1pm AEST on Monday after it first half profit dipped to $3.3 billion
Chief executive Anthony Miller touted the group's balance sheet as it navigates an economically uncertain backdrop and volatile market conditions
"The foundations of the bank have strengthened materially over the last two decades," he said
A common tier T1 equity ratio of 12.6 per cent was more than six percentage points higher than pre-global financial crisis levels
while the bank's deposit-to-loan ratio was at a record high of 84.5 per cent
"These foundations will support us to navigate increasingly volatile and uncertain conditions stemming from trade and geopolitical tensions," Mr Miller said
Westpac CEO Anthony Miller (right) says he is looking forward to working with a Labor government
(Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Recent instability due to US President Donald Trump's trade tariffs has also impacted global credit markets
particularly over those last couple of months
has increased the cost of credit in the International and wholesale markets," Mr Miller said
will mean that as and when we need to access the markets for incremental funding
Westpac also said there was welcome relief on the way
now that the Reserve Bank of Australia appeared to be turning into an interest rate easing cycle
"The resilience of customers who have navigated significant cost-of-living challenges over the past few years is impressive," Mr Miller said
"This resilience is reflected in the improvement in credit quality metrics
indicating we may have passed the low point in the cycle."
The bank's mortgage delinquencies and impairment charges remain low
Westpac was the worst performer of the big four banks
(Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Miller congratulated federal Labor on its landslide win after the weekend election
noting the clear result would be a boon for the nation
the consistencies and certainty that that re-election delivers is quite profound," he said
"It certainly sets us aside and sets us apart from many other countries around the world
and given the inconsistency of the volatility that we're seeing."
including those flagged in Westpac's most recent consumer survey
"Business confidence has also weakened; this could lead to softer consumer spending and business activity," Mr Miller said
Westpac announced an interim dividend of 76 cents per share
one cent higher than the previous corresponding period
Photo: Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOSStar New Zealand goalshooter Grace Nweke has produced yet another dazzling display to help lead the NSW Swifts to a 71-63 win over the Queensland Thunderbirds at Ken Rosewall Arena
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueScores were level at half-time of Sunday's Super Netball match
but the Swifts broke the contest open with a 23-13 third quarter to improve their season record to a perfect 4-0
The 23-year-old shot 148 goals across her first three games for the Swifts
"I'm learning on the job and really enjoying it," Nweke told Fox Sports
I think it's a pretty standard game for me
Just wanting to be a bit better in that regard
"I feel like I was available to the ball and pretty accurate with my shots
Nweke has been working on her movement in order to become a more complete player
"I'm not wanting to be a one-trick pony," she said
"I want to be able to diversify my skill sets
and know that in moments where I need to change up what I'm doing
Swifts wing attack Paige Hadley was also a powerhouse
earning player of the match honours for her 32 feeds and just one turnover
"I was just so in the moment," Hadley said
I'm really proud of the girls in that third quarter
Firebirds goalshooter Mary Cholhok led the way for the visitors with 42 goals from 50 attempts
Picture by Jonathan CarrollIn her 50 years as a midwife
Helen Thornton has helped people through the best and worst moments in their lives
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"It can be very
very happy but then you have periods of intense sadness for the families that lose babies," she said
The almost retired 75-year-old began as a nurse before moving to the Calvary Mater Hospital in 1971 as a midwife
then Maitland Public Hospital and the old Christo Road Private Hospital and finally
she worked mainly in doctor's offices in antenatal care
Ms Thorton organised bereavement keepsakes such as collecting babies' footprints
"It's much better than when I first started
quite often ladies didn't see their babies if they died
so things have really changed in the last 50 years," she said
But while her career had seen the lowest of lows
she felt it was still the best job in the world
the wonder on their faces and their partner's
With International Day of the Midwife on Monday
Ms Thornton said midwives needed more recognition for the work they do
and people need them to help them birth," she said
there was no choice for how or where women gave birth
some women have had horrible things like sexual assault
Ms Thorton said there were different models of care today
such as home births with a registered midwife
midwifery care from pregnancy through to postnatal and care through private obstetricians
"50 years ago you just went into a hospital and had a baby," she said
While much had changed for the better over the years
staffing shortages continued to worsen over the last ten years
"I think midwives are leaving the profession because they don't feel that they're getting enough out of it or they're giving women the care they deserve," she said
She felt that the biggest cause of staffing shortages was the lack of funds in hospital budgets
NSW Nurses and Midwives' Association president O'Bray Smith said she knew of a unit where there were 14 women to one midwife on the post-natal ward compared to the preferred ratio of one to three
you wouldn't want to stay in work where you can see that women and newborns aren't getting safe care," she said
She said they were also seeing the destruction of maternity services, such as in Muswellbrook and Gosford, largely due to staffing issues
"Many of our nurses and midwives can't afford to live in the communities that they look after
some of our members are living in cars," she said
For the past year, the union has been campaigning for a 15 per cent pay increase in public hospitals
with the deal before the Industrial Relations Commission currently
Workers at Newcastle Private Hospital held a 26-hour strike in March for a pay rise and better working conditions
and I loved every single day of being a midwife
"I pay for the fact that I couldn't get a living wage
that I couldn't live in Sydney comfortably."
Midwives and nurses were continuously putting others ahead of themselves
Executive director of nursing and midwifery for Hunter New England Local Health District Elizabeth Grist said they were the "backbone" of the health service
director of nursing and midwifery at Hunter New England Local Health District
Picture by Marina Neil"They bring life into the world
they are with people at the end of their life and all those moments in between," she said
"There wouldn't be a health service if it wasn't for nurses and midwives."
Ms Grist said nurses and midwives continued to show immense strength and resilience during challenging and uncertain times
"I think today and every single day we celebrate their compassion and their extraordinary commitment to the care they give," she said
"I'd like to see nurses and midwives look after themselves."
Ms Smith agreed that there was a significant emotional toll on workers in the medical field
and she'd want to see more support for midwives grappling with birth trauma
As Ms Thornton's long career drew to a close
she felt fortunate to have worked with women and families across the region
"Sometimes people will tap me on the shoulder and say
you won't remember me but you delivered my baby'," she said
"There's been some families that I've delivered all their babies
Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts has invited NSW Premier The Hon Chris Minns to personally visit Port Macquarie to view first-hand the region's greatest traffic bottleneck, the Wrights Road to Lake Road segment of the Oxley Highway.
The Wrights Road to Lake Road segment of the Oxley Highway is owned and managed by the NSW Government, through Transport for NSW (TfNSW). Mayor Roberts wrote to Premier Minns on Monday 17 February requesting a face-to-face meeting on site to discuss the matter.
Mayor Roberts said that since taking office in late 2024, he has already taken face-to-face meetings with representatives from TfNSW and the Regional Transport and Roads Minister, The Hon Jenny Aitchison, to push a case for urgent planning and funding support to remedy the areas most congested traffic bottleneck.
“Having met with all of the people responsible for this road corridor to this point, it is clear to me that no urgency in addressing this well-known congestion and infrastructure issue is being applied by the NSW Government,” Mayor Roberts said.
“If there was a critical issue that our Council organisation wasn’t addressing as a matter of urgency, then as Mayor, I would reasonably be asked to step in and provide detailed commentary, or to push a matter forward.
“As such, Premier Minns is ultimately responsible for the current situation at Wrights Road and Lake Road and it is therefore reasonable for me to request a face-to-face meeting on site, particularly given that there appears to be no appetite to add urgency to addressing this well-known issue."
Mayor Roberts said the Port Macquarie Hastings region is one of the largest and fastest growing regional areas of the Mid North Coast of NSW and with that comes pressures on Council to deliver the infrastructure required.
“The reality is, this road corridor is a NSW Government segment which is getting progressively worse, in an area that they already know has reached functional capacity a number of years ago. I hope that through a face-to-face meeting with the Premier on site, that we can discuss and progress immediate improvements whilst laying down a timeline for longer-term solutions to improve the traffic flow and remedy the congestion in this area.”
We acknowledge the Birpai people, the traditional owners of the land in which we work and live, and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We extend our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who choose to call Port Macquarie Hastings home.
No.3) celebrates one of her two goals as Victory beat Adelaide 3-1 away
Photo: Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOSMelbourne Victory have one foot in the A-League Women grand final after defender Claudia Bunge delivered a 3-1 win over Adelaide United in their away semi-final leg
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut coach Jeff Hopkins insists the job is only half-done
The Victory will host Adelaide at the Home of the Matildas in Bundoora next Saturday with a two-goal advantage after Bunge struck twice in the second half in front of 4372 fans at Coopers Stadium on Sunday
The winner will face either Melbourne City or Central Coast
who play at Casey Fields next Sunday after drawing 2-2 in Gosford
"Really happy with the performance and the result as well," Hopkins told Network Ten
"But the job's only half-done and you can see by how close the game was for most of the game that the tie's not over
"Got a huge amount of respect for Adelaide
Erin Healy scored Adelaide's goal to make it 1-1 (Matt Turner/AAP PHOTOS)Adelaide will have to beat Victory in Melbourne for the first time in nine years to reach the decider
attack," Adelaide coach Adrian Stenta told Network Ten
"So I think that's what we need to do because we've gotta chase a two-goal deficit."
Sunday's game burst into life when Victory goalkeeper Courtney Newbon found Emily Gielnik with a wonderful defence-splitting pass
Gielnik let rip with a wonderful left foot strike that clattered home
Fiona Worts won the ball in midfield and worked it out wide to Emily Hodgson
Emily Condon forced a good save from Newbon but Victory's defence were unable to clear it quickly enough and an unmarked Erin Healy nipped in to score
Reds goalkeeper Claudia Jenkins pulled out a world-class save to turn a ripping free kick from Alana Jancevski over the bar
Adelaide defender Tiarna Karambasis was replaced by Chelsie Dawber after a head knock in the 62nd minute
which Hopkins said was precautionary due to cramp
Victory's winner came after Jenkins denied Sara D'Appolonia in the 76th minute
Alana Murphy whipped in a flat delivery to the back post and Bunge powered home a bullet header
"The deliveries today on our set pieces were good
Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) announces that Dr Clare Allen will not be seeking reappointment at the conclusion of her contract on 31 January 2026 and will vacate her role as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) on 21 March 2025 to allow the Council to commence the recruitment process for a new CEO.
Dr Allen has served as CEO for 4.5 years, leading the organisation through a period of significant transformation, innovation, and resilience. During her tenure, PMHC has strengthened its strategic direction, improved financial sustainability, and delivered key infrastructure projects that will benefit the region for generations to come.
Reflecting on her time at PMHC, Dr Allen said: “It has been an honour to serve as CEO, work with incredible staff, and help transform the organisation for the betterment of our community. I am grateful for the opportunity to have worked with former Mayor Peta Pinson and current Mayor Adam Roberts, who have always had the best interests of the community at heart. With the senior leadership currently in place, I know that the strong progress we have made will continue.”
Under Dr Allen’s leadership, PMHC has navigated some of the most challenging periods in recent history, including flood recovery efforts, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the remediation of Rawdon Island Bridge. Her strategic vision has driven record levels of infrastructure investment and a commitment to sustainable growth, laying the foundation for the next seven generations.
“We have delivered on the ground, enacted key plans for future infrastructure, and worked to build a stronger, more connected, and resilient region. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together, and I want to express my deepest gratitude to our community, Council, and, most importantly, the dedicated staff who make PMHC what it is today.”
Mayor Adam Roberts acknowledged Dr Allen’s contributions, stating: “Dr Allen’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping a progressive, community-focused Council. Her passion and dedication have left a legacy, and on behalf of the Council, I thank her for her service and commitment to our region.”
PMHC will now commence the transition process, with further details to be provided in due course.
Photo: Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOSFour-time premiership coach Alastair Clarkson returned to the fold as Hawthorn celebrated their AFL/VFL centenary in style with a 65-point drubbing of Richmond
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueClarkson was one of the dozens of club greats among the 62,321 spectators on hand to see fan favourite Jack Gunston kick his 500th career goal in the Hawks' 16.13 (109) to 6.8 (44) triumph at the MCG on Sunday
Clarkson figured prominently in the pre-match ceremony
back in brown-and-gold for the day after being estranged from the club since his 2021 exit
The 57-year-old joined retired greats Luke Hodge and Jordan Lewis
to present the spoils of last decade's three-peat when the Hawks' 13 premiership cups were paraded for the crowd
Alastair Clarkson (centre) was back in Hawks colours as the club celebrated 100 years
(Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOS)Hawks coach Sam Mitchell
who took the reins from Clarkson in a messy handover
admitted it had been daunting to have so many greats around the club during the build-up
"He's a four-time premiership coach of the club and hasn't been around for a while
so it's great that he was able to go out and spend some time with the guys that he coached from Hawthorn," Mitchell said
"Then on the other side he's coaching an opposition team
so there's always going to be some complexities around that side of things."
Sunday's scrappy win won't be remembered as fondly as any of those grand final triumphs
but was another box ticked on the path to a possible 14th flag
The Hawks are 6-2 ahead of a clash with Melbourne in round nine
while Richmond (2-6) will look to bounce back against winless West Coast
Hawthorn's superior class and dominance at the contest meant they proved far too strong for the Tigers
pulling away after halftime to post their biggest win of the season to date
tempers flared in the second term when James Sicily caught Maurice Rioli holding the ball and threw the Tiger to the ground
Tim Taranto flew the flag for Rioli - gifting Sicily a 50-metre penalty and goal by shoving him over - while most players were involved in the ensuing melee
Sicily's goal helped Hawthorn to a 34-point lead before Richmond kicked their first major through Seth Campbell after more than 52 minutes of action
Gunston reached his milestone in the third quarter
snapping his second goal for the day as the margin grew to 49 by the final change
It blew out when Hawthorn finished full of running
kicking five goals to two in the last quarter
Noah Balta rose above recent off-field controversies to take this mark for the Tigers
(Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOS)Gunston and Hawks cult hero Nick Watson were the best of the goalkickers with three each and Jack Ginnivan added two from 14 disposals
"Five hundred goals for Jack is phenomenal," Mitchell said
five) were Richmond's busiest on a tough day
The Tigers were beaten 117-84 in contested possession and kicked their lowest score of the season
but it was just our polish (that let us down)," Richmond coach Adem Yze said
Tigers defender Noah Balta returned to the sound of boos from Hawthorn fans after a week on the sidelines because of his court-imposed curfew
It was Balta's first match since being sentenced last month for assaulting another man on December 30 last year
and he limped off in the final few minutes after appearing to roll his right ankle
Photo: Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOSRichmond coach Adem Yze will wrap his arms around Noah Balta in the face of ongoing jeers from opposition supporters
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBalta returned to the sound of boos from Hawthorn fans in the Tigers' 16.13 (109) to 6.8 (44) loss at the MCG on Sunday
after spending a week on the sidelines because of his court-imposed curfew
It was his first match since being sentenced last month for assaulting a man on December 30 last year
Balta was also targeted during a win over Gold Coast - his only other appearance this season after serving a four-match suspension related to the assault - three days before he was sentenced
"Every supporter group can do what they want
but what we can do is put our arms around him and support him," Yze said after Sunday's match
"We've just got to make sure that doesn't tip over the edge and create any anxiety and pressure for him
"We've got to support him as best we can throughout the week and he knows how much we love him
every supporter group can do what they want
but I would be hoping the Tiger Army don't do that to other players."
Balta had a solid game with eight marks and 14 disposals before being subbed out in the last term
who is free to play against winless West Coast next Sunday
limped off in the final minutes against Hawthorn after appearing to roll his ankle
"He was trying his best to get our ball movement going from our back half
Yze also backed Tim Taranto despite the experienced midfielder gifting Hawthorn a goal by shoving James Sicily over and giving away a 50-metre penalty
Sicily had thrown Maurice Rioli to the ground after catching the Tiger holding the ball
Most players on the ground became involved in the ensuing melee
"Sicily's a fiery character and he got into one of our younger players
so for our vice-captain to step in and fly the flag ..
when one of your players is going in to help one of your younger players and fly the flag and lead by example ..
he might have overstepped it but I'd rather him do that than not go in there at all."
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Port Macquarie Hastings Council is proud to present ArtWalk 2025 – with Expressions of Interest closing soon for artists and performers to apply to be a part of the event
With a new theme of ‘Out of this World’ - ArtWalk will makes its way back to the Port Macquarie CBD with a galactic-style display of creativity and wonder which will illuminate the night sky on Friday 6 June
“We’re on the lookout for local artists and creatives who are proud to partner with us for yet another big year celebrating our premiere festival
Artwalk,” Group Manager Liveable Communities Lucilla Marshall said
“This event is a community favourite and celebrates the incredible creatives
musicians and performers in the Hastings region - while showcasing the vibrant Port Macquarie Town Centre
“Help us make this another night to remember by being a part of this fantastic event.”
To be part of the premier cultural event for our region
visit our website to submit your details on the ‘Expression of Interest’ form before midnight
This round of EOIs are only open to artists and creatives
with applications for interested stallholders and food vendors opening in April
Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts said the growth and popularity of Artwalk has quickly seen it become one of the most prized and celebrated events on the Port Macquarie calendar
“ArtWalk is quickly cementing its place as one of the biggest events our region has to offer,” he said
“It’s growth and popularity is not only a testament to its continued innovation and planning
but it is a measure of the incredible display of local creative talent that our region has to offer
“I look forward to welcoming you all back for another year when ArtWalk kicks off the long weekend on Friday 6 June.”
To apply to be part of the action, visit ArtWalk 2025 Port Macquarie Hastings Council.
Photo: Jason O'BRIEN/AAP PHOTOSRising star Darcy Jones is drawing inspiration from reigning premiers Brisbane as GWS look to end their early-season form slump with a derby win
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Giants are 4-3 and risk damaging their top-four ambitions if they again give up bragging rights to Sydney at the SCG on Sunday
While Jones admits back-to-back defeats have sent his sixth-placed side slightly spiralling
the small forward says pointing to Brisbane's run to the 2024 AFL flag has helped them refocus
The Lions were 13th (2-5) heading into round eight last year and only made it into the top eight in round 16 after overcoming a spate of injuries
Darcy Jones can't wait to tackle the Swans
(Dan Himbrechts/AAP PHOTOS)"It's not the end of the world - in our minds
so we just need to stay positive," Jones told AAP
"I look back at Brisbane last year - they were not in a very good stage this time of year
I said as soon as I got on the bus in Canberra after the Bulldogs game ..
"And what better game to win than against the Swans
We'll be ready to get one on the board again."
Sydney defender Lewis Melican says it's the same story across the city
with last year's beaten grand finalists also bent on resuscitating their season
are 14th (2-5) and on a three-game losing streak
Sydney at least have recent derby history on their side
having won their past four meetings with GWS
we'll reach a stage where it might be too far to come back from
so we've got to start playing the footy we want to play soon," Melican told AAP
"I wouldn't really say there's much of a grace period (adjusting under Cox)
"We just need to really knuckle down because he's (Cox) had a pretty clear mindset that he wants to be a defence-first team
we probably haven't been able to do that the way we want to and the scoreboard's been showing it."
dropping forward Tom Hanily and back-up ruck Peter Ladhams
while defender Ben Paton is out with a calf injury
Fellow defender Sam Wicks returns from his own calf injury
alongside midfielder Angus Sheldrick and defender Joel Hamling
Josh Kelly (hip) and Conor Stone (omitted) out of the side
Giants rookie and Western Sydney local Josaia Delana will make his AFL debut
joined by fellow forward Callum Brown and defender Joe Fonti
Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts met with NSW Local Government Minister Ron Hoenig on Thursday to discuss regional priority issues and Local Government reform
The roundtable meeting with the Minister at Grafton included North Coast Regional Council Mayors and General Managers
as well as State MP’s Michael Kemp and Ritchie Williamson
Mayor Roberts highlighted the need for the State Government to give greater consideration to creating a stable and reliable funding model that would allow regional councils like those on the North Coast of NSW to adequately deliver the key and critical infrastructure needed to keep pace with their rapid growth
“I fundamentally believe that the current funding model for NSW Council’s is broken and is in dire need of State Government intervention,” Mayor Roberts said
“It is becoming increasingly more difficult for regional councils in particular to fund major infrastructure projects to simply keep up with the population growth
let alone trying to provide anything in the nice-to-have column
“Without the NSW Government stepping in to provide significant funding support to rapid growth areas such as the Port Macquarie Hastings and broader Mid North Coast
our region’s infrastructure backlog will continue to place pressure on our economic development
limit jobs growth and further exacerbate issues such as the significant traffic congestion we are already experiencing here in Port Macquarie
I thank the Minister for Local Government for visiting our region to hear our concerns and to also explain the package of potential and upcoming Local Government reforms.”
the traditional owners of the land in which we work and live
We extend our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who choose to call Port Macquarie Hastings home
Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts is helping drive a renewed focus on regional collaboration
ensuring our councils work together to address key challenges and seize opportunities for their communities
“Proactive engagement across all levels of government is a priority for me this term (2024-2028)
Strengthening collaboration will help deliver real outcomes on the critical issues facing our region,” Mayor Roberts said
Mayor Roberts joined fellow Mid North Coast mayors
along with State and Federal representatives
“With growing pressure on councils to deliver essential infrastructure
it’s vital that all levels of government work together in a way that drives tangible results
even more so in our rapidly growing region,” he said
“Regular face-to-face meetings build relationships
and ensure our shared priorities remain front of mind.”
Mayor Roberts has called on NSW Premier Chris Minns to escalate discussions on solutions for Port Macquarie’s well-known Wrights Road traffic congestion
following meetings with State Government representatives that have yet to produce a clear plan
Mayor Roberts has joined the Country Mayors’ Association
a key forum for regional leaders to influence policy and engage directly with State Government Ministers on shared challenges
Port Macquarie Hastings Council has also reaffirmed its commitment to the Mid North Coast Joint Organisation of Councils (JO)
with Mayor Roberts serving as Deputy Chair
councils will continue to collaborate on strategic planning and deliver practical solutions that benefit the entire region
There were dramatic scenes at Port Macquarie this afternoon
with an alleged armed robbery at a service station
and drivers caught up in the chaos are counting their lucky stars
An application to the Australian Government to provide a multimillion-dollar boost to support the delivery of a brand-new aquatic facility in Port Macquarie has been unsuccessful
Port Macquarie Hastings Mayor Adam Roberts said while the decision was a “disappointing outcome” for the community
it would not deter his and Council’s efforts to continue to pursue funding for the Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility
“We were unfortunately advised last week that a significant portion of funding we applied for to progress the delivery of the aquatic centre - one of the highest-priority strategic projects for our region - has been denied,” Mayor Roberts said
“The application for $13.6 million in Federal funding detailed the significant benefits this project would bring to the region and was very much in line with the grant funding guidelines criteria provided under the Department of Infrastructure
Communications and the Arts Growing Regions Program Round 2.”
"When you consider the extensive community engagement process undertaken, and community support for the project, as well as the due diligence done to obtain all relevant building, environmental and development assessment approvals - including at a State Government level - it is an extremely disappointing outcome.
“Since the notification of our application being unsuccessful, I have spoken with our Federal Member for Cowper, the Hon Pat Conaghan MP, who has committed to working with myself and our Council to continue to seek future funding support for this critical project.”
Port Macquarie Hastings Council submitted the application to the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and Arts for its support to progress Stage 1 of the Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility, in October 2024.
Stage 1 of the project includes scope for a 50-metre outdoor pool, a 25-metre pool with transparent roof, a 20-metre indoor pool, gym, amenities, kiosk and 128 parking spots.
The $13.6 million in funding needed to be contingent on Council matching it dollar for dollar. The matched amount was to be budgeted via developer contributions.
The Growing Regions Round 2 Fund supports capital works projects that will enhance liveability, bolster social cohesion and support local amenity throughout Australia's regions.
The Department advised that whilst the nominated project was regarded as suitable, it was ultimately unsuccessful in receiving funding.
“A successful application had to rate highly against each assessment criterion as outlined in the Program Guidelines, and against other applications, in order to be found suitable for funding,” the outcome letter stated.
“Unfortunately, on this occasion whilst found to be suitable, your application was not successful. The decision considered factors including project size, complexity, funding requested, value for relevant money, risks associated with the project, and available program funds.”
Further funding options will now be explored by Council, to allow the best possible chance for future planning and development of the facility to continue.
Photo: Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOSStar goalshooter Sophie Garbin has produced a match-winning display to ensure the Melbourne Vixens maintained full bragging rights over the Melbourne Mavericks with a 67-59 Super Netball win
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueGarbin nailed 45 goals from 52 shots and Kiera Austin chipped in with 16 goals and three Super Shots to ensure the Vixens improved their head-to-head record against the Mavericks to 3-0
it squared up the Vixens' season record at 2-2
helping to make up for last week's 10-goal home loss to the West Coast Fever
"I thought everyone did an amazing job," Garbin told Fox Sports after Sunday's match at John Cain Arena
we've probably been focusing a bit too much on trying to change and have a bit of variety
and we got to the grand final last year doing that
having our own individual strengths and working to them
"We know we've got a really tough month coming up with the Swifts
but getting the win today was the start of it."
(Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOS)Vixens coach Simone McKinnis said a win over the team's cross-town rivals was always significant
"It's a rivalry that's growing," McKinnis said
"We don't want to get beaten by the Mavericks
You know that's something they really want
"They fought really hard and they were going for it out there today."
"That's Sophie at her best - when she's demanding that ball in that circle
and sometimes you'll hear her screaming for it," McKinnis said
and when she's positioned and takes that on
The Mavericks are now 1-3 and face a battle to work their way back into the finals mix
The Mavericks' Shimona Jok was a handful for her rivals
(Morgan Hancock/AAP PHOTOS)The opening quarter was an even affair
with the Vixens just doing enough to take a 16-15 lead into the first break
It was late in the second quarter when the Vixens flexed their muscles
The Mavericks trailed by just three goals entering the five-minute Super Shot period
but two long-range bombs from Austin helped inspire a 9-3 run to give the Vixens a 35-26 lead at half-time
Although star Mavericks goalshooter Shimona Jok (43 goals from 47 attempts) was proving hard to stop
Vixens duo Garbin and Austin were just as lethal at the other end
The lead swelled to 13 by late in the third quarter
with the Mavericks unable to launch any meaningful fightback
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe premier sporting event has returned to Port Macquarie for its 38th year in 2025
Ironman Australia head of operations Rebecca van Pooss said the decision took into consideration the event's global calendar
and the half-distance in Port Macquarie fitted in better for professional athletes
The race has attracted a mix of experienced campaigners and up-and-coming talent
Ironman Australia head of operations Rebecca van Pooss with professional athletes Australia's Mitch Kibby and New Zealand's Rebecca Clarke
Picture by Liz Langdale.Ms van Pooss said some rainfall is expected across the weekend but nothing "too significant"
Athletes on the bike course have to maintain a minimum of 12 metres distance under the event's rules
"We just encourage people to take it easy out there
"Take it a little bit easy on wet roads as you would if you were driving your car."
The women's race is headlined by Australia's Paris 2024 Olympic Games representative Natalie Van Coevorden
who will be racing in Port Macquarie for the first time
New Zealand's Rebecca Clarke has also returned to Port Macquarie for the first time since finishing second at Ironman Australia in 2022
She's known for being a strong swimmer and is planning to be one of the first out of the water
to ensure she's in a leading position as she heads out on the bike leg
Clarke placed first in the Ironman 70.3 Sunshine Coast event in 2023 but said she doesn't have a preference for racing either the full course or half distance
"I kind of flick between but I'm super happy to be racing the 70.3 this weekend," she said
Clarke hasn't been able to do a lot of run training after coming back from an injury
She said she wouldn't be confident doing a full marathon but her body is in good condition for doing a half marathon
Clarke said it's her goal to race in Kona's Ironman World Championship this year and hopefully in 2026 too
The top seed in the men's race is New Zealand's Sam Osborne off the back of a strong 2024
which included his first professional win at Ironman 70.3 Geelong
as well as podium finishes in the Philippines
professional athlete Mitch Kibby said that he and others are not daunted by the distance
"It's more about the intensity of the race and how well we're prepared to be able to race at our threshold for basically the three or four hours," he said
Kibby said he's been able to prepare well for the event
despite having some difficulty sleeping at times due to a new addition to his family
I haven't had many races since then," he said
"We're just getting used to the new normal at home."
Recent rainfall has created a murky discolouration to the Hastings River
but Kibby said he's not concerned about the visibility
"Half the time in Port Phillip Bay at home we can't see the hand in front of our face," he said
Kibby said he's hoping to race strongly and secure a spot to compete in the world event
There will be one athlete in the field who was on the start line the last time the professional race was a part of Ironman 70.3 Port Macquarie back in 2015
with Brisbanes Josh Amberger returning to the race
Amberger was sixth the last time the Ironman 70.3 was a professional race
Ironman Australia and Ironman 70.3 Port Macquarie are supported proudly by the NSW Government
through its tourism and major events agency
Photo: Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOSCome down for air
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueLong admired for its fresh air
the island state has been officially recognised for its sustainability credentials
The city of Launceston has been named the national winner of Keep Australia Beautiful's Tidy Towns Award
The honour recognises sustainability efforts in regional and rural Australia
environmental innovation and community engagement
Launceston has been lauded for its environmental and social works
(Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOS)Launceston was announced the winner at a ceremony in Beechworth
"This award isn't just about one town - it's a celebration of every community working to build a cleaner
kinder future and we're proud to support that mission," Keep Australia Beautiful's chief executive Val Southam said
the Tidy Towns Awards show the best of regional Australia - not just in sustainability but in spirit
"These winners show that when locals come together with purpose
Ikuntji in the Northern Territory and the Pilbara towns of Port Hedland and South Hedland in Western Australia were the other finalists
Launceston's Rocherlea Action Project was singled out for its community work
1.7 tonnes of waste and three tonnes of scrap metal from the region
The volunteer group brings residents together for regular clean-up days
barbecue breakfasts and children's activities to foster connection
Launceston has previously been named Australia's town of the year and most livable regional city
(Sarah Rhodes/AAP PHOTOS)More than 4000 volunteers were involved in community environmental
heritage and cultural projects across the six finalist cities and towns
"Regional towns are stepping up in powerful ways," Ms Southam said
"They're not just protecting their environments - they're showing what's possible when resilience
purpose and local leadership come together for a better future."
During earlier rounds of Tidy Towns voting
mayor Matthew Garwood hailed the recognition of Launceston's environmental and social initiatives as an "incredible honour"
"This Council is committed to doing whatever we can to help ensure our beautiful region is protected now and into the future," he said
"I'd like to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated staff who've worked so hard to make these projects what they are and Keep Australia Beautiful for recognising us in this way."
it was left for Anna Roper to come from the second half of the field and storm home aboard Rathoran in the final event on Interline Race Day at Port Macquarie on Sunday
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe popular young apprentice is enjoying a wonderful run of success in recent times with a riding treble at the Kensington track on Anzac Day resulting in a reduction in her metropolitan claim and taking her season tally towards the half century mark
After assessing the track conditions with earlier rides throughout the afternoon
Roper partnered Rathoran in the last race and was presented with the interesting conundrum regarding the consistent gelding's placement in transit
The son of Shalaa was confidently supported in betting but hasn't displayed barrier speed in recent placings at Muswellbrook
Taree and Grafton which could prove a disadvantage with the heavy track conditions prevailing
So Roper was content to settle the Jake Hulltrained galloper near the rear of the field and well behind the pace being set by Wilderness Star and Wolf Dancer before slowly improving her position at the halfway part of the event
With the pacemakers coming back to the pack quickly approaching the home turn
Rathoran weaved a passage underneath Wilderness Star and burst through the centre to strike the front
Jockey Anna Roper rode to victory in the last race of the day at Port Macquarie on Sunday
Picture suppliedThe flashy bay gelding raced clear over the concluding stages to score a comprehensive victory over Golden Honour with Quinky Deel completing a good day for Jake Hull as the Gosford trainer filled first and third placings
Angel's Cloud put the writing on the wall with a second behind Sagaponack last week and the appointment of Aaron Bullock resulted in confident support in the opening race but connections had to be satisfied with second place as What a Rush led throughout to claim victory
Ben Osmond is one of the state's most talented apprentices and approached the meeting with great confidence as evidenced by another metropolitan win at Randwick on Saturday and was engaged to pilot What a Rush in the event
The Neil Godbolt trained filly showed blistering speed at her first run from a three-month break and maintained a dominant lead before accounting for Angel's Cloud by a length margin
This pattern of racing was replicated in the following race when Jett Newman allowed Imarealamerican to dictate tempo in the lead before withstanding the late charge by Smart Lily to claim victory by just under two lengths
Kris Lees seems to have found the key with the problematic son of Astern while the late effort of Smart Lily provided strong confidence for the future after the daughter of Smart Missile was trapped in the second half of the field approaching the final bend before making up good ground in the latter stages
Another day and another riding double for Luke Rolls when the prominent local hoop scored a dominant win on Solar Power for Colt Prosser before piloting Seymour Stars to her second win later in the day
The same reward eventuated for Ben Looker as success on Punch One Out and Via Vegas continued his impressive strike rate over the past month resulting in nine wins since the middle of April
Followers of the Glen Milligan stable were again rewarded with Punch One Out providing the first pin of a training double with success by new arrival
providing another great day for the Taree mentor
Zoom Outcome was given no peace by Forbidden Gemstone for the majority of the fifth event
but the Joseph Burgess trained gelding burst away down the home running to land a comprehensive win while the effort from Sheila's Fanta Sea to make up many lengths from the back of the field was full of merit
Despite around one hundred and fifty millimetres of rain drenching the course proper over the past week and most falling in the days leading up to the meeting
racing was conducted under overcast skies and on unform heavy ground
With most other racetracks in the district being unable to conduct meetings due to the continued inclement weather conditions
Craig Rice and his track staff have done a remarkable job with the Port surface and the recent reconstruction of the course proper has been a wonderful investment
The Port Macquarie Race Club welcomed Interline to the afternoon festivities and were delighted to continue their association with this fine local organisation with many of the staff and supporters enjoying the thoroughbred action
The curtain has now come down on a very successful April carnival of racing and a reminder for the next meeting to be conducted at the complex on Monday
Details regarding general admission tickets together with reserved seating in the Ivan Livermore Stand are available by contacting the Port Macquarie Race Club office on 02 6581 1964 or email on admin@portmacquarieraceclub.com.au
Photo: AP PHOTOLady Gaga has given a free concert in front of at least a million fans who poured onto Copacabana Beach for the biggest show of her career
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinue"Thank you for making history with me," Lady Gaga told a screaming crowd on Saturday night
kicked off the show with her 2011 song Bloody Mary
Cries of joy rose from the tightly-packed fans who sang and danced shoulder-to-shoulder on the vast stretch of sand
Some fans arrived on the beach at the crack of dawn to secure a good spot
(AP PHOTO)Lady Gaga performed her classic hits
switching between an array of dresses including one with the colours of the Brazilian flag
Some fans - many of them young - arrived on the beach at the crack of dawn to secure a good spot
Madonna also turned Copacabana Beach into a massive dance floor last year
The large-scale performances are part of an effort led by City Hall to boost economic activity after Carnival and New Years' Eve festivities and the upcoming month-long Saint John's Day celebrations in June
Rio's City Hall said in a recent report that around 1.6 million people were expected to attend Lady Gaga's concert and that the show should inject at least 600 million reais ($A164 million) into Rio's economy
Rio officials have a history of organising huge concerts on Copacabana Beach
Madonna's show drew an estimated 1.6 million fans last year
while four million people flooded onto the beach for a 1994 New Year's Eve show by Rod Stewart in 1994
that was the biggest free rock concert in history
(file) Photo: AP PHOTOAt least six people are dead and dozens injured after a stampede at a religious gathering in the western Indian state of Goa
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe stampede broke out as thousands of devotees thronged narrow lanes leading to a temple in Shirgao village on Saturday
the Press Trust of India news agency reported
Tens of thousands of devotees from Goa and neighbouring states of Maharashtra and Karnataka attended the annual Hindu festival at Sree Lairai Devi temple
The stampede was caused as people standing on a slope near the temple fell over
pushing more people to fall onto each other
director-general of Police Alok Kumar said
The injured were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment
Authorities ordered a probe into the incident
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was saddened by the loss of lives and expressed condolences to the victims' families
"The local administration is assisting those affected," Modi said on social media
Deadly stampedes are relatively common around Indian religious festivals
where large crowds often gather in small areas
at least 30 people died and many more were injured in a stampede as tens of thousands of Hindus rushed to bathe in a sacred river at India's massive Maha Kumbh festival
when thousands at a religious gathering in northern India stampeded at a tent camp in Hathras town
Thankfully our local area emerged from the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred relatively unscathed, with only minor flooding impacting parts to our rural and riverside communities.
Whilst the event has so far passed our area without major incident, it is still a time for our community to remain vigilant.
I urge our community to continue to be across the official advice, updates and warnings as and when they arise. Be mindful that there are still a number of dangers that are present including significant water flows through the river system, beach debris and coastal erosion as well as continued weather impacts as the ex-cyclone dissipates.
Please do not drive through flood waters, avoid swimming in rivers or beaches and please keep continuing to support each other, particularly those who have been impacted.
For now, It is encouraged for residents and businesses in possession of sandbags to hold onto those for the time being until it is very clear they are not needed for this event.
Finally, I would just like to take this opportunity on behalf of our community to thank our Emergency Services, Council staff and many volunteers who have diligently prepared for what may have been a significant impact to our region and community. Your efforts are very much appreciated
NOTE: For up-to-date advice, please see Council’s Facebook Page, BOM App, Hazards Near Me App, ABC Radio, SES Advice and Live Traffic NSW.
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe full-distance event will consist of a 3.8km swim
with those racing Ironman 70.3 Port Macquarie facing a 1.9km swim
the 2025 event will mark her 14th entry into the event
"The atmosphere in town [from the Thursday before the event] is amazing
it's a chance to relax and take it in," Franklin said
"Being surrounded by people who are doing the same event as you
[and you] all have the same goals means that can kind of bounce off each other
"The whole day I'm just thinking I'm just going to have the best day ever."
Kimberlee Franklin completing the 35th edition of Ironman Australia in Port Macquarie
Picture suppliedFranklin's introduction to the event came when her partner Brent brought her as a spectator in 2008
"He was heavily [involved in] the triathlon scene..
The first year that he bought me up here to watch it
I was blown away with what they were doing," she said
having also competed in three Ironman Western Australia events
The Port Macquarie Triathlon Club member places more of an emphasis on her mindset
and I think that's trying to do what my body feels like it's able to do without falling apart," she said
"I've got that confidence in the back of my mind that I know I can do it
so it's enough volume to know I can get through the day
"But there is more focus on mindset to be able to enjoy the day as well and not get bogged down in any of the negatives that might come up."
A highlight for Franklin across her involvement is having earned legend status
An athlete becomes a legend of the event when they have completed 10 events in the one location
"When that happened I was super happy and proud of course
it's almost like I've got the legend status
I've ticked off that and initial goal," she said
"Ten years is a bit of a slog to get there
"The worst part for me is just at the swim start
because I just want to get started," she said
[and] on the day you've got to keep going and trust in your training that you can get it done."
Franklin also acknowledge the work and support of the events volunteers which "make the day."
Competitors prepare for the swim leg during the 2024 event
Picture fileThe home of Ironman racingRegional director of Ironman Australia Carl Smith
is thrilled to return to the region for 2025
"It only seems like yesterday we were in Port Macquarie delivering last year's event," he said
"It bookmarks the end of what's been quite a long summer for a lot of the team delivering events
but we're really excited to be back at the home of Ironman racing in Australia."
Smith was also pleased with the increased participation and the influx of volunteers that will assist during the event
"We're really happy with the response from the athlete community again this year
we've got great numbers in the Ironman race and the Ironman 70.3," he said
"We have over 1000 volunteers that registered to be part of it in all different facets of the event
access and support all of the athletes on their journey
"We're incredibly grateful for that support from the Port Macquarie and surrounding community."
The 2025 event has seen no change to the course which has allowed the organising committee more time to refine the swim
Port Macquarie-Hastings mayor Adam Roberts welcomed the event back for its 38th year of completion
"Major events such as Ironman are central to the growth and development of regional economies
and we are blessed to have such a large-scale event right here in the Port Macquarie Hastings," Cr Roberts said
"I have no doubt we'll see yet another huge event this year with participation likely to reach more than 2700 entrants."
"Best of luck to all the passionate and determined competitors
and thank you to the volunteers and event organisers for the major contributions you make to showcase this major sporting spectacle to the world."
You can view the road closures as well as other information HERE
Find out how to vote
Liberal Robert Dwyer has claimed victory in the Port Macquarie by-election.
the Liberals have won 53% of the two-party preferred vote
It marks the first time a non-incumbent Liberal has won the seat of Port Macquarie.
Mr Dwyer said that he’s honoured to have been elected as the next member for Port Macquarie.
“I’d like to thank our community for their support and for their trust in allowing me to continue Leslie Williams’ hard work for our region,” Mr Dwyer said
I’m determined to get straight to work and deliver funding to upgrade Wrights Road roundabout
tackle crime in our community and preserve and enhance our environment.”
I’ll share details on how you can reach me and my office
please feel free to reach out via my Facebook and Instagram
or by email at Robert.Dwyer@nswliberal.org.au
Donations by individuals to registered political parties of between $2 and $1,500 in a financial year are tax deductible. Phone: 02 8356 0300
Privacy Policy
Authorised by Chris StoneLiberal Party of Australia
131 Macquarie StreetSydney NSW 2000Phone: (02) 8356 0300
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Photo: HANDOUT/INCATPowered by more than 250 tonnes of batteries and with the ability to carry 2100 passengers
Hull 096 has been hailed as one of Australia's greatest exports
All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe 130m-long vessel
officially launched in Hobart by shipbuilder Incat on Friday
is the world's largest battery-electric ship
It was commissioned by South American ferry operator Buquebus and will take people
"I've been in the marine business for nearly 70 years
This is the biggest moment in that 70-year history," Incat chairman and founder Bob Clifford said
which will sail under the name China Zorrilla - a Uruguayan actress - was "one of the most significant export achievements in Australian history"
it will feature the largest retail shopping space on any ferry
It carries a 40-megawatt energy storage system and will charge via ports on each side of the River Pate
The ferry will operate in South America and carry the name of Uruguayan actress China Zorrilla
(Ethan James/AAP PHOTOS)Mr Clifford said it could charge as quickly as 40 minutes
depending on the availability of electricity
This technology is good for 50-100 miles," he said
Construction of Hull 096 was made possible by a $60 million low-interest commercial loan provided through the Tasmanian Development Board
The vessel will have the biggest retail space of any ferry and enough room for 225 vehicles
(Ethan James/AAP PHOTOS)It will undergo further fit outs and is expected to be put through sea trials in Hobart's River Derwent by the end of 2025
Premier Jeremy Rockliff said Tasmania had long been a leader in maritime innovation
"Incat's latest achievement is a testament to our state's world-class shipbuilding capabilities and proud seafaring heritage," he said
Mr Clifton said Incat had expansion plans and companies
the China Zorrilla will have sea trials at the end of 2025
(HANDOUT/INCAT)There were 10 larger ships "in the works"
"Within five years I would seriously hope to be building four ships a year
I think that's only the beginning," he said
we are leading the world with this type of lightweight ship."
Sean Gleeson has been preselected as The Nationals’ candidate for the upcoming Port Macquarie by-election on March 15
Sean and his wife Jody have lived in the Hannam Vale area for over 15 years
He runs beef cattle farms which have been in the family for generations
The pair is heavily involved in Ag Shows NSW and Sean was President of the Camden Haven Pastoral
Horticultural and Industrial Society for six years
and businesses in and around Port Macquarie need
He is committed to working tirelessly as a voice for the region on key issues including crime
and the much-needed traffic improvements required for a booming city and region
the electorate has been represented by National Party MPs between 1988-2002 and 2011-2020 and we are determined to continue that long and proud history
The NSW Nationals always fight for the best interests of the regions and Port Macquarie remains a crucial part of that
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