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 areaContinueSituated at Mount Ganghat the repeater will provide a much-needed vital community communication service to the region Funding for the project was provided through the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) Prepare and Recover - Flood Recovery grant The repeater is now operational and can be accessed via UHF CB channel 1 in duplex mode the repeater could be a critical part of the communications network in times of natural disaster Picture suppliedThe amateur radio club has been involved in the project from inception completing the grant process as well as providing the technical input to supply the club will be providing ongoing oversight and maintenance along with covering the associated annual licensing fees A radio repeater is a combination of a radio receiver and a radio transmitter that receives a signal and re-transmits it so that two-way radio signals can cover longer distances A repeater sited at a high elevation can allow two mobile stations, otherwise out of line-of-sight propagation range of each other, to communicate and government mobile radio systems and also in amateur radio The new UHF CB Repeater greatly increases the range of local UHF CB communications re-transmitting with higher power any signal from CB Radio equipment that can reach the repeater input channel This means that where a UHF CB radio signal may normally reach only a handful of kilometres, that signal can now potentially cover hundreds of kilometres when using the repeater While the repeater will be a useful addition for amateur radio enthusiasts and the like its true value resides in times of emergency where other means of communication it will form a vital link when other systems fail," Taree and District Amateur Radio club publicity officer "The CB can provide a good bridge between the general public and emergency services." 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Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. 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." Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Today's top stories curated by our news team Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your digital replica of Today's Paper Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over City of Newcastle (CN) has signed off on the purchase of a commercial landholding in Taree as a strategic investment for future financial return in a bid to establish long-term economic plans to ensure it can meet the need for infrastructure and services across the LGA The 3.82-hectare site is currently home to a Bunnings Warehouse operating under a 10-year-lease It is the first property acquired under CN’s Future Fund strategy which was established in 2023 to seek better financial returns through a range of strategic investments The purchase secured a lease extension of the Bunnings until 2035 with the real estate agency stating the business offers investors “a defensive income stream of $1.42 million per annum and fixed annual rent reviews” Executive director of corporate services and chief financial officer David Clarke said the Future Fund allowed council to diversify its revenue base to cater for both the growing population and aging assets “We’re continuing to think outside the square when it comes to how we deliver for our city,” he explained “City of Newcastle manages $2.7 billion worth of infrastructure assets on behalf of the community they do need greater levels of investment over time as they age which is why we put aside funds each year to ensure we are able to cover the cost of their future renewal “The Future Fund enables us to increase investment of our cash reserves into a diverse portfolio of land “This will provide the growth we need as we balance financial stewardship with innovation ensuring that every decision we make today contributes to a thriving city for generations to come.” The Bunnings purchase was vetted by the Future Fund Governance Committee in line with its adopted investment strategy and follows the review of more than 20 properties during the past 12 months The committee’s membership includes representatives of City of Newcastle and the elected council as well as two independent members with appropriate professional capabilities and an independent chairperson Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here Click through to read our latest Issue of Newcastle Weekly Subscribe to Newcastle Weekly. News, Community, Lifestyle, Property delivered direct to your inbox! 100% Local, 100% Free. 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 areaContinueUPDATED 05/05/2025 5:00pm:After announcing pricing for the entry-level Pro variant on February 28 Volkswagen Australia has now confirmed pricing for the all-wheel drive ID.4 GTX flagship Volkswagen launched the ID.4 overseas in December 2020 with first Australian deliveries initially due in late 2023 then March 2025 and now finally "around mid-2025" Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsIn that time Australia's electric vehicle (EV) market has gone through a significant period of growth but has now slowed down despite more affordable models being introduced to local buyers The ID.4 will arrive priced from $59,990 before on-road costs That sees it undercut the upcoming, updated Tesla Model Y Launch Series by about $3400 with Volkswagen's EV boasting a better driving range to the tune of about 80km 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsThe ID.4 Pro is also $1000 more affordable than the related Cupra Tavascan Endurance which has identical outputs but a slightly shorter driving range and lower DC fast-charging rate the Cupra is produced in China while the ID.4 comes from Germany priced exactly $10,000 higher than the base Pro but bringing more power and AWD There's just one variant available at launch 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsDimensions2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsWarranty and ServicingThe Volkswagen ID.4 is backed by a five-year Service intervals and pricing are yet to be announced The Volkswagen ID.4 has not yet been issued an Australian safety rating by ANCAP however it achieved a five-star result in New Zealand and Europe after testing conducted in 2021 by Euro NCAP 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsStandard safety equipment includes: The local Volkswagen ID.4 lineup will consist of two variants 2025 Volkswagen ID.4 price and specsThe ID.4 Pro features: An Exterior Style package is available on the Pro for an extra $900 Volkswagen hasn't yet detailed the exterior paint colour choices for the ID.4 Pro it's confirmed metallic paint will be a $1000 option while premium metallic finishes will cost $1300 on the GTX MORE: Everything Volkswagen ID.4 Content originally sourced from: CarExpert.com.au Error: no decision tree source folder detected which he says are harmful to many neurodivergent children 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 areaContinueCharlie said the practice of "whole body listening" made school difficult for him leading to anxiety and not wanting to go to school leaves neurodivergent kids feeling distressed and emotionally exhausted The practice also requires students to keep "quiet hands" and make eye contact was once told he was being rude when he was looking away from the teacher "I knew [whole body listening] was not good and not many people knew it was affecting them and the teachers didn't know they were doing it," Charlie said "For a while I was thinking of a way of how you could stop it and then I thought the idea to send a letter to the principals Charlie wrote a letter addressed to principals and decision makers kickstarting his student-led Forced4Good campaign "We're writing to let you know that many students have been struggling with whole body listening expectations in schools," the letter says "These expectations are hurting our well-being and making it harder to learn our brains and bodies don't all work the same way - and that's okay "We need accessible listening practices that help us learn not ones that leave us out or make us feel wrong." Charlie said schools can make learning more accessible for neurodivergent students through inclusive learning That includes fidgeting or using sensory stimulation tools standing or moving around and taking breaks when needed Charlie believes he can be a force for good Picture by Enzo Tomasiello'Learn in the way that works for them'About 15 to 20 per cent of Australia's population is diagnosed as neurodivergent 38 per cent of students in Grades 1 to 10 were chronically absent "Every student deserves to learn in the way that works for them," Charlie wrote in the letter "When we're trusted and supported to manage our own bodies and attention we can truly engage and get the education we deserve - because learning is a basic human right "But being told how to listen makes us choose between blending in and actually learning "That's a choice no student should ever have to make." The campaign wasn't about blaming teachers it's just more something that hasn't been covered," Charlie said Charlie and his mum said the support they've received has been overwhelming the campaign has been viewed more than 10,000 times A petition on Change.org has more than 1200 signatures The campaign is named in reference to Star Wars He used "Star Wars Day" - May 4 - as a day to encourage neurodivergent students to write to their schools to call for change and share their experiences Charlie said he wanted his campaign to reach politicians including federal education minister Jason Clare "It's not the kind of thing you change in two months," he said it'll probably keep going until we can get that full goal "We're hoping that we can get a few more schools on board we'll probably try and start doing some stuff at the state level." To read Charlie's letter visit brilliantlittlegems.com.au/charliesletter Jonathon has been living and working in Bendigo since March 2021, currently working as a general reporter. Contact him on jonathon.magrath@austcommunitymedia.com.au. their latest win a convincing victory over the Gold Coast Suns Photo: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSThe Brisbane Lions' premiership defence is hitting somewhere near top gear and there's plenty in reserve for Chris Fagan who is forecasting selection headaches for the table-toppers 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 areaContinueA 12th win from the last 13 encounters with Gold Coast on Sunday at the Gabba followed the Lions' dominance of St Kilda a week earlier They're now 7-1 and back on top of the AFL ladder despite acknowledging struggles with team defence and consistency around the stoppages Fagan's side were ominously dominant in those two areas on a wet night in Brisbane on Sunday a ruthless third term setting up a comfortable 9.12 (62) to 7.7 (49) scoreline that flattered the Suns Brisbane's Will Ashcroft had a huge impact in the Lions' win over the Suns at the Gabba (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)Midfielders Will Ashcroft Lachie Neale and Josh Dunkley put on a clinic as the Lions won clearances 47-28 Charlie Cameron ended a three-game goal drought with a trio of majors the small forward also missing two set-shot snaps he would normally swallow up And Jack Payne returned from illness to put the clamps on Coleman Medal leader Ben King who didn't touch the ball until the third term Suns coach Damien Hardwick tipped his cap to the "humming" Lions Brisbane coach Chris Fagan says the table-topping Lions still have plenty in reserve (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)"The past two weeks we're getting back to somewhere near what we look like when we play our best footy," the coach said "The boys have embraced the pressure stuff and team defence side of things and we've got good results on the back of that." That effort came hours after Keiden Coleman's impressive return from a knee reconstruction in a two-point VFL win against the Suns 10 marks and five tackles in his first game since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in round one last year Keidean Coleman made an impressive return to the Lions' VFL side 14 months after an ACL rupture (Darren England/AAP PHOTOS)Fellow defender Tom Doedee also starred the Adelaide recruit playing his fourth game since overcoming back-to-back knee reconstructions Doedee had initially been reluctant to put his name forward for AFL selection but has told Fagan he is ready for a recall Sam Day (hamstring) will likely be sidelined but the coach said forwards Kai Lohmann (shoulder) and Logan Morris (calf) should both be available to face North Melbourne in Hobart next week It creates a selection headache for the coach who took his side to the flag with Coleman Darcy Gardiner and Lincoln McCarthy all sidelined by knee injuries last year "We've got a few coming at us," Fagan said "He (Coleman) has got to push his way into the side .. I'm reluctant to change a group that's doing a good job and sometimes it's good to get a second game 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: Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOSDamien Hardwick has called for better "protection" of Matt Rowell after the Gold Coast midfielder's quiet night against Brisbane and argued the result wasn't indicative of the gap between his Suns and the best 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 areaContinueGold Coast looked up for the fight at the Gabba on Sunday when they finished the first half with some momentum and trailing by just 11 points the third quarter one-way traffic as the Lions shot clear for a 12th win from the last 13 encounters Three late goals papered some cracks for the Suns in a 9.12 (62) to 7.7 (49) loss in wet conditions Hardwick's side falling to 5-2 while the reigning champions (7-1) regained top spot on the ladder Rowell and Lachie Neale having a not so friendly conversation in the QClash (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS)"We were hoping to be better," the coach said "We saw the demolition of the Saints (by the Lions) last week and similar today "We've got some things we can get to work on and we know the answers." Lachie Neale (25 and 10) and Hugh McCluggage (30 and eight) showed their class while Josh Dunkley (26 disposals) kept Suns stoppage king Rowell to just 16 touches and one clearance off contract beyond this year and in demand began the season brilliantly but was also kept relatively quiet in a 16-disposal game against Sydney last week He'd had at least 10 clearances in three of his previous six games and averages 6.4 in his 91-game career "He does battle and he doesn't get a lot of protection (from officials) I'm not going to lie," Hardwick said of the 23-year-old The coach believes his midfield bull could be appealing for more free kicks given the man-handling he receives around the contest I'm talking throughout the course of the year,' he said "He doesn't get enough protection for a ball player did some stuff up there as well (to try to get into the contest) Suns players took the field with plenty of hope before the reality check came very good year and a couple of quieter weeks." will play sixth-placed Western Bulldogs and third-placed Hawthorn at home-away-from-home Darwin in the next fortnight "That's the best place to be," Hardwick said of the challenge ahead "Instead of running away from it you step straight into it." He didn't agree that the one-sided loss to the Lions you don't give yourself a chance," he said but when they absolutely destroy you in that part of the ground .. 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 Zahlie Durran Section 2 - Restricted Vocal Solo: 1st: Archie Slack Section 8 - Folk or Traditional Song: 1st: Archie Slack Isabella Howard from Taree performing at a previous Eisteddfod File pictureSection 14 - Song by Australian Composer (not pop or folk): 1st: Dominic Randle Section 20 - Vocal Solo: 1st: Dominic Randle Section 31- Song in Costume: 1st: Archie Slack Section 37 - Music theatre amplified: 1st: Archie Slack Section 49 - Pop Song - Australian songwriter: Adjudication Only 12 Years and under Section 3 - Restricted Vocal Solo: 1st: Addison Jordan Section 9 - Folk or Traditional Song: 1st: Asta Van Vliet Section 15 - Song by Australian Composer (not pop or folk): 1st: Ashley Cowan Section 21 - Vocal Art Song From Elizabethan to 21st Century Classical Repertoire: 1st: Neve Baker Section 32- Song in Costume: 1st: Serenity Blatch Section 38 - Music Theatre Amplified: 1st: Kailani Tavares Section 44 - Pop Song: 1st: Kailani Tavares Section 50 - Pop Song Australian Songwriter: 1st: Asta Van Vliet Section 27 - Ensembles - Duo/Trio/Quartet: Adjudication Only Section 39 - Music Theatre Amplified: 1st: Milla Loretan Section 51 - Pop Song Australian Songwriter: 1st: Tasha Reynolds Section 4 - Restricted Vocal Solo: 1st: Milly Read Section 10 - Folk or Traditional Song: 1st: Ella Abbott Section 16 - Song by Australian Composer (not pop or folk): 1st: Oscar Slack Section 22 - Vocal Art Song From Elizabethan to 21st Century Classical Repertoire: 1st: Ella Abbott Section 33- Song in Costume: 1st: Oscar Slack 16 Years and under Section 5 - Restricted Vocal Solo: 1st: Aurora Dent Section 11 - Folk or Traditional Song: 1st: Amarni Francis Section 17 - Song by Australian Composer (not pop or folk): 1st: Lily Szabo Section 23 - Vocal Art Song From Elizabethan to 21st Century Classical Repertoire: 1st: Molly Murphy Section 28 - Ensembles - Duo/Trio/Quartet: Adjudication Only Section 40- Song in Costume: 1st: Amarni Francis Section 40 - Music Theatre Amplified: 1st: Amarni Francis Section 52 - Pop Song Australian Songwriter: 1st: Aurora Dent Section 41 - Music Theatre Amplified - Own Choice: 1st: Elizabeth Archinal Section 53 - Pop Song Australian Songwriter: 1st: Elizabeth Archinal Section 6 - Restricted Vocal Solo: 1st: Sophie Abrams Section 12 - Folk or Traditional Song: 1st: Kelahrni Mobbs Section 18 - Song by Australian Composer (not pop or folk): 1st: Sophie Abrams Section 24 - Vocal Art Song From Elizabethan to 21st Century Classical Repertoire: 1st: Sophie Abrams Cantata or Oratorio: 1st: Cassandra Stefani Section 29 - Ensembles - Duo/Trio/Quartet: Adjudication only Section 35- Song in Costume: 1st: Cassandra Stefani Section 56 - Restricted Vocal Solo: 1st: Dale Schilling Section 57 - Folk or Traditional Song: 1st: Dale Schilling Section 58 - Art Song by Australian Composer: 1st: Jordan Russell Section 59 - Vocal Solo From Elizabethan to 21st Century Classical Repertoire: 1st: Jordan Russell Cantata or Oratorio Aria: 1st: Dale Schilling Music Theatre or Television: 1st: Jordan Russell Section 63 - Music Theatre Amplified: 1st: Mick Dean Section 64 - Pop Song Australian Songwriter: 1st: Kathleen Fisher Section 54 - Junior Championship - 16 Years and Under: 1st: Molly Murphy Section 55 - Junior Championship - 20 Years and Under: 1st: Sophie Abrams Section 67 - Open Vocal Championship: 1st: Jordan Russell Section 66 - Open Age Musical Theatre Championship: 1st: Mick Dean 10 Years and Under Aggregate Award - $100 donated by Margaret Thomas: Dominic Randle 12 Years and Under Aggregate Award - $100 donated by Songlines Music Studio Taree: Ashley Cowan Eunice White Award - 14 Years Song in Costume - $50 donated by Gina Douglas and Kerry White: Oscar Slack 14 Years and Under Aggregate Award - $100 donated by Graham Earl: Ella Abbott Mary Saad Award - 16 Years Song in Costume - $100 donated by May Ambour: Armarni Francis 16 Years and Under Amplified Aggregate Award - $100 donated by Midcoast Singing Studio: Isabella Howard 20 Years and Under Amplified Aggregate Award - $100 donated by Health Hub Taree and Health Hub Harrington: Elizabeth Archinal Marieke Dan Award Classical Art Song Open Age - $200 donated by Dans' Ladies Wear: Jordan Russell 16 Years Championship 1st Place - $300 donated by MVCS: Molly Murphy 20 Years Championship 1st Place - $300 donated by Margaret Thomas: Sophie Abrams Open Age Championship 1st Place - $1,000 donated by Tim Stack OAM and Taree and District Eisteddfod Society: Jordan Russell Taree Arts Council Open Age Music Theatre Championship 1st Place - $500 donated by Taree Arts Council: Mick Dean Stage Door/Canteen Scholarship - $300: Delaney Todd Best Local Female High School Student (within MidCoast LGA) Kevin Dodd Memorial Perpetual Award - $100: Ella Abbott Denva Bird Memorial Trophy for most promising competitor 16 or 20 years - $250: Elizabeth Archinal Smile Scholarships - $1,000 each: Sophie Abrams MidCoast Council Encouragement Award - $50 Bass & Blues Voucher: Photo: James Ross/AAP PHOTOSErin Patterson had shared with true crime fans her love of mushrooms excitement over buying a food dehydrator and plans to cook beef Wellington 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 50-year-old mother of two has pleaded not guilty to all counts against her including three murder charges for killing her estranged husband's family after feeding them lunch at her Leongatha home Don and Gail Patterson and Heather Wilkinson all died in hospital from death cap mushroom poisoning after eating a beef Wellington Patterson had prepared for them on July 2023 Heather Wilkinson and Don and Gail Patterson died after eating lunch at Erin Patterson's home (HANDOUT/INTRAWORK BUSINESS SERVICES)Patterson claims it was "a terrible accident" Three members of a true crime Facebook group Patterson was part of gave evidence on day five of her Supreme Court trial in Morwell The group was created to go over the case of convicted baby killer Keli Lane she was a really good researcher," group member Christine Hunt said about Patterson's online reputation said in 2023 Patterson had shared photos of a black dehydrator with mushrooms inside "She was a bit excited that she'd purchased a food dehydrator," Ms Barkley said via video link Screenshots of Patterson's messages to the group were also shown to the jury "I've been hiding powdered mushrooms in everything the kids had no idea," she wrote in one post Simon Patterson finished his evidence to the jury after almost three days in the witness box said Patterson "seemed to really like mushrooms" In the weeks before the deadly mushroom meal Patterson asked the group if anyone had cooked a beef Wellington and if they had advice Erin said she was making beef Wellington," Ms Hay said "I think she was at the supermarket and she messaged us something about the beef that she was buying." She said Patterson had told them the mushrooms came from an Asian grocer Ms Hay said Patterson asked her for tips on how to make sure the beef Wellington pastry did not go "soggy" as it was one of Ms Hay's favourite dishes said she joked: "I'd make a tofu Wellington" so we had a good laugh about that," she said Patterson's estranged husband Simon finished his evidence to the jury after almost three days in the witness box Simon Patterson said his mother stopped reading messages from Erin after trying to solve a dispute (Diego Fedele/AAP PHOTOS)Defence barrister Colin Mandy SC put it to Simon that he had asked Erin - two days after the lunch - "is that what you used to poison them?" "I did not say that to Erin," Simon responded The jury of 15 people were shown messages from a family group Signal chat between Simon his former wife and his parents - in December 2022 - after he last week claimed she had sent "extremely aggressive" messages to his mother and father which he said were from a few months later having a crack at me and accusing me of some things in response to what I'd messaged her about," he said After his parents tried to help Erin and Simon resolve a dispute over his child support payments his mother Gail took a step back and stopped reading messages from Erin in the group chat "Mum really struggled with anxiety," he said The trial before Justice Christopher Beale will continue on Tuesday Photo: AP PHOTOJapan and China have accused each other of violating the airspace around the Japanese-controlled East China Sea islands 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 latest territorial flap came as both appeared to have warmer ties while seeking to mitigate damages from the US tariff war Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement it lodged a "very severe protest" with Beijing after a Chinese helicopter took off from one of China's four coast guard boats which had entered Japan's territorial waters around the Senkaku islands The ministry said the helicopter violated Japanese airspace for about 15 minutes on Saturday The statement called the incident an: "intrusion .. into Japan's territorial airspace" and urged the Chinese government to ensure preventive measures Japan's Self-Defence Force scrambled fighter jets in response China also protested to Tokyo over a Japanese civilian aircraft violating its airspace around the islands saying it was "strongly dissatisfied" about Japan's "severe violation of China's sovereignty," according to a statement by the Chinese embassy in Japan late Saturday China Coast Guard said it "immediately took necessary control measures against it in accordance with the law" and dispatched a ship-borne helicopter to warn and drive away the Japanese aircraft Japanese officials are investigating a possible connection between the Chinese coast guard helicopter's airspace intrusion and the small Japanese civilian aircraft flying in the area around the same time The intrusion was the first by China since a Chinese aircraft violated Japanese airspace in August (AP PHOTO)China routinely sends coast guard vessels and aircraft into waters and airspace surrounding the islands forcing Japan to quickly mobilise its jets Saturday's intrusion was the first by China since a Chinese reconnaissance aircraft violated the Japanese airspace off the southern prefecture of Nagasaki in August Chinese aircraft have also violated the Japanese airspace around the Senkaku twice in the past offered 90 fullblood bulls at Tamworth Regional Livestock Exchange on the night of Wednesday 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 areaContinueWith no reserve on offer the 90 bulls - all clear of genetic conditions - reached a top of $28,000 Gateway United U0020 by Arubial United P0342 presented with top one per cent of the breed for marble score at +3.7 fineness at +0.79 and Breeder Feeder Index at $602 Other estimated breeding values included top 10pc for eye muscle area at +8.4 Top selling full blood Wagyu bull Gateway United U0020 sold for $28,000 during the final dispersal of the Gateway Wagyu herd Picture supplied.Equal-priced Gateway United V0135 presented with a top 1pc Self Replacing Index at $398 and top 5pc Breeder Feeder Index at $488 with top 5pc EBVs that included a marble score of +2.8 and fineness percentage of +0.54 His carcase weight EBV of +44 was in the top 25pc for the breed 45pc went to Queensland including the top selling lots Another Queensland volume buyer came away with seven bulls to average $14,000 and up to $24,000 for the top 1pc sire Gateway United V0133 also by Arubial United from a Gateway G113 dam He presented with leading index figures that included $599 for Breeder Feeder $424 for Self Replacing and top 1pc terminal indexes for both fullblood ($449) and F1 ($399) His top 5pc marble score EBV presented at 3.2 and fineness Selling for $26,000 was Gateway G113 U0049 by Coates Itoshigenami G113 from Sumo Cattle Co Fuku K136 His top 5pc Breeder Feeder Index came in at $527 Another United calf from a G113 dam with top 1pc figures was Gateway United V0144 which sold for $22,000 with +3.5 marble score a Breeder Feeder Index of $657 - the highest of the draft - and a top 5pc carcase weight figure of +66 Gateway Wagyu also offered a line of Fullblood females that met strong demand with full clearance and continued interest in maternal lines from the same breeding foundation," he said The sale was hosted by Premium Bovine Solutions with assistance from Australian Property and Livestock in conjunction with Purtle Plevey Agencies Courtesy UON Special Collections.HIDDEN far up the Karuah River is a strange sight 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 areaContinueTowering over the river below Booral a massive stone wall can be glimpsed by boat amid undergrowth at the water's edge Sydney archaeologist Damaris Bairstow once described it as "an outstanding is what's left of the historic Booral Wharf It's claimed locally that when first built the wharf could have been about 30ft (nine metres) high and 60ft (18m) long The site was selected because of the depth of water allowed ships of up to 30 tons to visit the Karuah River was navigable to within 1.6 kilometres from Booral itself to allow goods to be transported further by horse and cart Booral Wharf was crucial for the export of wool bales But it probably served its owner for only 22 years the site was also the scene of a still-unsolved double murder is a largely unknown reminder of when the Australian Agricultural Company (or A.A.Co) the nation's powerful pioneering pastoral giant The A.A.Co's proposed vast sheep empire began on the shores of northern Port Stephens at Tahlee in 1826 it was obvious the company's coastal operation was unsuitable for sheep The focus moved inland to create the 'English' village of Stroud along the present road route to Gloucester That's why picturesque Stroud is today regarded as Australia's oldest surviving 'company town' with many buildings from the 1800s still visible the A.A.Co's attention shifted to the former convict outpost of Coal River to kick-start the re-named Newcastle by undertaking a major coal mining venture here The company had received a Crown grant of 2000 acres (810 hectares) in the heart of old Newcastle this land would become suburbs such as Cooks Hill the company began subdividing its surface land for houses One striking example was the company's model suburb with wide streets This 1914 showpiece was Newcastle's original 'Garden Suburb' operating probably the nation's largest beef cattle herds instead of merinos Occupying about seven million hectares across Queensland and the Northern Territory this represents about 1 per cent of Australia's land mass Company's seal showing a sheep and the British royal crown.The A.A.Co formed initially by an act of British Parliament but now publicly listed is today hailed as Australia's oldest continuously operating company The impetus for its ambitious project came in 1819 with the British textile industry demanding wool from a source controlled solely by Britain According to a report from archaeologist Bairstow the limitless lands of NSW seemed the answer with convicts tending fine-wool sheep under the control of free settlers the (then colonial) government would be rid of the burden of housing clothing and feeding its convict population while the convicts would be removed from the rum-soaked towns All that was needed was capital," she wrote The A.A.Co was incorporated in 1824 with a nominal capital of one million pounds to obtain a land grant in NSW of one million acres including eight directors of the Bank of England The idea of the 'deep' Booral Wharf originated from company commissioner Lieut-Colonel Henry Dumaresq probably the best wharf picture ever taken was during a visit by boat by Hunter naturalist Athel D'Ombrain in August 1976 a group of volunteers from Newcastle WEA under the guidance of archaeologist Damaris Bairstow hacked their way through the lantana-covered site to record the wharf's surviving features Bairstow later wrote a book in 2003 about the A.A.Co's pioneering role is contained in her earlier unpublished PhD thesis kindly made available from Hunter historian Rosemary Melville recently a permanent goods receiving store was erected on Booral Wharf in 1837 about the same time as a one-ton crane was installed and the wharf was used by free settlers in 1850 the wharf buildings burned down in a bush fire was soon being developed as a port capable of handling larger ocean-going vessels after which the A.A.Co stopped operating from Booral who soon took over the flour mill at Stroud Booral Wharf seems to have finally closed in the late 1870s Bairstow's on-site investigations in 1984 revealed that the "massive stone structure" of the now overgrown wharf was built in two sections The stone walls rose 5.3 metres above low-water level but may have once been higher much-quoted 18 metre length of the stone walls is incorrect being 13 metres in total with a gap of 10 metres between them to allow ships to berth alongside in a widened Steps still lead up from the water on the south-west wall other tangible reminders today of the A.A.Co's earliest days are in Stroud with its historic buildings and Silo Hill above it two cannons circa-1850 stand guard over unusual underground grain storage silos Another hidden reminder is from Hamilton's 'Garden Suburb' a 1914 gateway memorial plinth contains a tarnished plaque with a rare public outing of the A.A.Co's insignia Photo: AP PHOTOBrazil's former president Jair Bolsonaro says he expects to be discharged from hospital soon and may attend a rally backing a proposed amnesty for 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 areaContinue"After three weeks at 10am (1300 GMT)," the 70-year-old wrote in a post on social media platform X his medical team had said his release was expected "in the coming days" after major abdominal surgery in April to treat an intestinal obstruction My next challenge: joining the Peaceful March for Humanitarian Amnesty on Wednesday Bolsonaro was hospitalised for his sixth surgery related to a 2018 stabbing that left lasting injuries He was admitted to a hospital in Brasilia after experiencing severe abdominal pain during a political event in Brazil's northeast That cut short a tour aimed at drumming up support for the amnesty initiative targeting those convicted over the January 2023 riots after his narrow election loss to leftist President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in 2022 Brazil's Supreme Court ruled that Bolsonaro should stand trial for allegedly plotting to overturn the election result Photo: AP PHOTOUNESCO has announced Nicaragua is withdrawing from the UN cultural and educational body because the organisation awarded a prize celebrating press freedom to Nicaraguan newspaper 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 areaContinueUNESCO's director general announced that she had received a letter on Sunday morning from the Nicaraguan government announcing its withdrawal because of the attribution of the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize which will deprive the people of Nicaragua of the benefits of cooperation particularly in the fields of education and culture," Azoulay said in a statement "UNESCO is fully within its mandate when it defends freedom of expression and press freedom around the world."  Nicaragua was one of 194 member states in UNESCO The body's members set up the press freedom prize in 1997 and the 2025 award was attributed on Saturday to La Prensa on the recommendation of an international jury of media professionals "The newspaper La Prensa has made valiant efforts to bring the truth to the people of Nicaragua," President of the international jury of media professionals Yasuomi Sawa said this newspaper bravely maintains the flame of press freedom." La Prensa is Nicaragua's oldest newspaper and was founded in 1926 It has confronted and survived three dictatorships according to the Inter American Press Association Authorities in Nicaragua tried to financially suffocate the newspaper by blocking the importation of paper since 2018 It was forced to focus on digital news and suspend its print edition in August 2021 after "it was subjected to a violent police raid resulting in the confiscation of its assets and the unjust imprisonment of its general manager," the association said "La Prensa has never ceased reporting for a single day Its editorial team crossed into Costa Rica under emergency conditions and continues its work in exile today," the association said The awards ceremony will take place in Brussels on the sidelines of the World Press Freedom Conference on Wednesday this prize reminds us of the importance of standing by those who protect and bring information to life," Azoulay said Nicaraguan authorities accused La Prensa of promoting "military and political interventions by the United States in Nicaragua" and denounced the award of the prize as the "diabolical expression of a traitorous anti-patriotic sentiment," UNESCO said Nicaragua's angry departure is a blow for the organisation that is also in the crosshairs of US President Donald Trump Trump called for a review of American involvement in UNESCO the Trump administration in 2017 announced that the US would withdraw from UNESCO The United States formally rejoined UNESCO in 2023 after a five-year absence Photo: Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOSAnthony Albanese has pledged unity in his second term as more Labor MPs are elected to parliament in a decisive victory for his government 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 areaContinueLabor stormed home to victory in the federal election in an emphatic landslide reducing the coalition to one of their worst performances at the polls and losing their own leader in the process Spending the day after the election in his inner-western Sydney electorate of Grayndler Mr Albanese pledged he would lead a unified government The prime minister has promised to 'work hard each and every day' serving the nation (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)"The Australian people voted for unity rather than division," he told reporters on Sunday He later spent time with party volunteers at a brewery alongside his fiancee Jodie Haydon and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles Labor won 86 seats in the 150-seat House of Representatives claiming a larger majority than their first term in office The coalition has been consigned to just 39 seats with its lowest primary vote on record since the party's formation The Greens are also yet to claim any seats teal independents held on to claim a second term with the potential of more to join their ranks including Nicolette Boele in the Sydney seat of Bradfield Labor picked up several coalition seats in QLD including Dickson (Jono Searle/AAP PHOTOS)Labor has increased its majority through substantial swings across all states picking up marginal seats and formerly coalition strongholds Among the significant wins for Labor was Peter Dutton's electorate of Dickson as he became the first opposition leader to lose his seat at an election Labor's Ali France won the seat in her third time contesting the electorate booting Mr Dutton out of parliament after a 24-year career Mr Albanese expressed sympathy for Mr Dutton following the election outcome and it would have been a tough night for Peter." The outgoing Liberal leader said he would take full responsibility for the election loss as the coalition looks to rebuild "We didn't do well enough during this campaign that much is obvious," Mr Dutton told party supporters in Brisbane on Saturday Peter Dutton lost his seat and his job after a strong swing away from the coalition (Mick Tsikas/AAP PHOTOS)Liberal Deputy Leader Sussan Ley said last night was a very difficult night for her party and it was reflecting on the results with humility our thoughts are also with many Liberal colleagues who have lost their seats indeed all 150 candidates who ran for the Liberal and National parties across the country," Ms Ley said Treasurer Jim Chalmers said Mr Albanese will go down in history as a Labor hero following the result Dr Chalmers says Labor's historic election win was beyond 'our most optimistic expectations' (Lukas Coch/AAP PHOTOS)"This was beyond even our most optimistic expectations," he told ABC's Insiders program on Sunday Soul searching would soon begin for the coalition as they begin the process of electing a new leader who is on track to lose his Victorian seat of Menzies after one term "It was clear our party has an issue in urban Australia so we need to turn our mind to that like we have never done before," he said "We need to really dig deep and think about who we are and who we fight for and who makes up Australia." Nationals leader David Littleproud said Labor had run the stronger campaign which made it hard to prosecute the case for a coalition government AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Photo: AP PHOTOLeeds have pipped Burnley to the title while Coventry and Bristol City secured the final two play-off places and Luton and Plymouth got relegated on an eventful final day in the England's second-tier Championship 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 areaContinueUnited needed to match Burnley's result to be crowned champions on Saturday due to their superior goal difference and they eventually did just that following an afternoon of toil beating Plymouth 2-1 courtesy of a last-gasp strike from Manor Solomon Daniel Farke's side equalised through Wilfried Gnonto's third effort in as many games shortly after half-time Burnley players celebrated too after finishing second (AP PHOTO)After Mihailo Ivanovic's early opener for play-off hopefuls Millwall at Turf Moor Josh Brownhill took his goal tally for the season to 18 and Jaidon Anthony struck to give Burnley a 3-1 triumph and leave them second with 100 points Millwall and Middlesbrough were left disappointed in their hunt for a top-six spot alongside Sheffield United Jack Rudoni's brace took Frank Lampard's Coventry to a 2-0 home win over Middlesbrough and Ross McCrorie scored twice as Bristol City fought back to secure a 2-2 draw against relegation-threatened Preston at Ashton Gate Blackburn were heading into the top six at the Bristol City's expense when Yuki Ohashi gave Rovers the lead at Bramall Lane but they were pegged back by Anel Ahmedhodzic's equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Sheffield United Luton's second successive relegation was confirmed after a 5-3 defeat at West Brom Callum Styles and Millenic Alli all scoring twice at the Hawthorns The Hatters therefore needed a big favour at Fratton Park but Hull survived to hang on for a 1-1 draw at Portsmouth after Christian Saydee equalised for the hosts in the 55th minute Derby and Stoke played out a goalless draw to retain their second-tier spots Sunderland will go into their play-off semi-final against Coventry on the back of five consecutive losses with assistant coaches Kevin Betsy and Xavi Calm in charge after Marti Cifuentes was placed on gardening leave claimed a 1-0 victory at the Stadium of Light after Nicolas Madsen's early finish but we don't want to lose you.\"}],[\"$\",\"div\",null,{\"className\":\"notfound-page__text-block\",\"children\":\"We recently updated the way we organise our articles 'div-gpt-ad-1511396693346-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/728x90_Leaderboard_Position_1' 'div-gpt-ad-1511394032333-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/970x90_bottom_leaderboard' 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googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/728x90_leaderboard_position_2' 'div-gpt-ad-1510792120057-0').addService(googletag.pubads());\n googletag.defineSlot('/34178149/300x250_Article-page_Position01' initial-scale=1\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"1\",{\"charSet\":\"utf-8\"}],[\"$\",\"title\",\"2\",{\"children\":\"Bushland Proposes 200-Duplex Seniors Village for Taree | The Urban Developer\"}],[\"$\",\"meta\",\"3\",{\"name\":\"description\",\"content\":\"Planned for a regional centre on the NSW Mid North Coast is before the Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is seeking concept approval for the overall development masterplan as well as detailed consent for the Stage One development \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe site is to the west of Taree’s centre at 494 Wingham Road.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt abuts a general residential area and another retirement village also operated by the Bushland Health group.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe group has several such facilities in the region including Bushland Place at Taree (pictured at top) and Banyula Village at Old Bar.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proposal comprises 207 seniors ‘self-care dwellings’ in duplex typologies of two or three bedrooms.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRecreation and support services such as 24-hour support and emergency response nursing-care arrangement and home-delivered meals as well as lifestyle and wellness programs and facilities.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe village would include parks for each cluster of homes communal sheds and barbecue shelters.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe staged masterplan would deliver the homes in tranches and also includes an area in the south-eastern corner next to the properties on Wingham Road identified for future development use but not subject to the current DA.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRetirement living has been in the spotlight this year as a means to diversify housing types but there have been concerns that retirement planning assessment times are blowing out Lendlease’s third residential building in the Collins Wharf precinct of Victoria Harbour.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 28-storey building at 971 Collins Street in Melbourne’s Docklands will deliver 312 homes in a mix of one two and three-bedroom apartments as well as townhouses and penthouses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Lendlease the project has already secured more than 50 per cent in presales.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHickory is the construction contractor—it completed the precinct’s first development in 2019 and is also working on LendLease’s second tower Regatta.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor Ancora Hickory is implementing several technical construction methods including various piling techniques and precast concrete solutions that enable a parallel-track construction program.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe building’s facade designed by architect Warren and Mahoney uses a three-stage design incorporating double-glazed glass and textured precast concrete with Reckli and brick finishes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe structural design transitions from a solid podium base to lighter upper levels “reflecting a maritime theme” aligned with the Collins Wharf design objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAncora will connect to the neighbouring Regatta development via a podium allowing resident access to shared amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as an all-electric building that includes electric vehicle infrastructure the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star certification Completion is expected in 2027.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRegatta including build-to-rent and build-to-sell units.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtensive wharf works including remediation of pre-existing wharf piles installation of raker piles and construction of the extension to Australia Walk are also part of the project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTechnical challenges include constructing on the finger wharf and co-ordinating extensive above-wharf road reserve and public parkland works.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Collins Wharf precinct will ultimately comprise six residential buildings of more than 1800 homes surrounded by over 5000sq m of parks and community space.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease is developing the parkland concurrently with the residential components including the extension of Australian Walk that forms part of the City of Melbourne’s Greenline project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease executive director of development Adam Williams said Collins Wharf “is fast becoming a sought-after address .. which took just a handful of hours to emerge on Saturday night the Coalition’s failure to sway voters has come under intense scrutiny.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts lack of policies around property that resonated with voters has been a large part of that criticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong those policies was a $5-billion infrastructure program to unlock up to 500,000 new homes was greeted with no small amount of scepticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Coalition also campaigned on its previously revealed plan to allow first home buyers to draw down on their superannuation giving access to up to $50,000 to help fund mortgage deposits.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile that proposal had won some support it got the thumbs down from many of Australia’s top economists who said the measure could prove highly inflationary among other issues.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly its plan to allow mortgage interest for first home buyers to be tax-deductible was roundly criticised for its likely inflationary and regressive effects.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has also been pointed out that the Coalition’s rejection of the Green’s policies around housing supply affordable housing and help for renters did it no favours.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe ALP went to the polls spruiking an extension of schemes introduced during its previous term including a $10-billion promise for its first-home buyers’ scheme to encourage 100,000 more homes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt also had its Help to Buy shared equity scheme under which the Government pays up to 40 per cent of the house price to point to.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf it was these policies per se or the lack of detail and depth to the Coalition’s the nation's ready for the Albanese government to act.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is clear been endorsed to follow through on its policies and fix the crisis that is crippling the Australian property sector.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs Urban Taskforce Australia chief executive\u0026nbsp;Tom\u0026nbsp;Forrest has pointed out it is time for the Federal Government to get back to work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Housing affordability and housing supply featured large during the campaign,” Forrest said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The key now is for the Government to strike while the iron’s hot.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“If legislation is needed to support the delivery of Labor’s $10-billion 100,000 new homes commitment—then pass it through the parliament now and get on with it.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe states have made many changes to how they enable home development The Federal Government’s support of that is crucial to its success material supply assistance or any other factor that affects getting homes out of the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis has been a pivotal election Then Cities for Total Fan Immersion\",\"slug\":\"billionaire-arsenal-rams-denver-nuggets-sports-anchored-precincts\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-30T00:00+10:00\",\"tags\":[],\"summary\":\"Why your next home might be stadium-adjacent; sports are the hook is before the Hunter and Central Coast Regional Planning Panel It is seeking concept approval for the overall development masterplan is to the west of Taree’s centre at 494 Wingham Road It abuts a general residential area and another retirement village also operated by the Bushland Health group The group has several such facilities in the region The proposal comprises 207 seniors ‘self-care dwellings’ in duplex typologies of two or three bedrooms would be provided with Bushland’s Warrana Place village It would also be able to offer help with house and garden work as well as lifestyle and wellness programs and facilities The village would include parks for each cluster of homes The staged masterplan would deliver the homes in tranches and also includes an area in the south-eastern corner next to the properties on Wingham Road identified for future development use but not subject to the current DA Retirement living has been in the spotlight this year as a means to diversify housing types but there have been concerns that retirement planning assessment times are blowing out, particularly in New South Wales.  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 8pm Tuesday police were called to a home on Coolabah Drive On arrival police were told three unknown males had broken into the home and threatened the residents with knives before fleeing with a small amount of cash A short time later police were called to a home on Patricia Avenue following reports a group of unknown males had also broken into that home and threatened the resident with a knife before fleeing No injuries were reported at either incident A crime scene was established at both homes and detectives launched an investigation into both incidents October 24 police were called to a home on Burrawong Drive following reports of another home invasion File picturePolice arrived and were told a group of unknown males had broken into the home stealing several personal items and a small amount of cash before fleeing the scene and detectives also launched an investigation into this incident Police are treating all three incidents as linked detectives are hoping to speak with a group of five males seen at the time of the incidents The males are described as being of Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander appearance and were last seen wearing dark clothing Anyone with information about these males or CCTV vision, dashcam footage or information about the incident are urged to contact Taree Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or NSW.crimestoppers.com.au Photo: AP PHOTOArsenal have warmed up for their Champions League semi-final second-leg showdown at Paris St Germain with another deflating home defeat this time 2-1 to Bournemouth in the Premier League 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 areaContinueDeclan Rice had fired the Gunners ahead after 34 minutes but Andoni Iraola's visitors staged a spirited second-half comeback at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday Dean Huijsen equalised in the 67th minute and eight minutes later Evanilson bundled in the winner to help Bournemouth complete a league double over the Gunners and boost their own faint European qualification prospects Bournemouth's Evanilson celebrates with teammates after scoring his side's second (AP PHOTO)It was hardly the way coach Mikel Arteta would have wanted to go into Wednesday's crucial second leg in Paris after his side had been beaten 1-0 at the Emirates in midweek While Arsenal's title hopes were ended last week their bid to be runners-up for the third year in a row is now also under threat from Manchester City and Newcastle and even Champions League qualification is not yet completely nailed on It's been an alarming domestic slump in the second half of the season for the Gunners who've won only three of their last 10 league games and just one of the last five Blowing the lead against Bournemouth was the fourth time in five league games that Arsenal have dropped points from a winning position Arsenal are now three points ahead of City with three rounds to go with fourth-placed Newcastle five behind the Gunners with a game in hand Youri Tielemans had earlier helped keep Aston Villa in the hunt for Champions League qualification the midfielder's first-half header sealing a 1-0 win over Fulham that moved them to seventh level on points with Chelsea in fifth and Nottingham Forest in sixth Leicester veteran Jamie Vardy (L) got on the scoresheet against Southampton (AP PHOTO)In a battle between relegated sides Leicester won for the first time since January by beating last-placed Southampton 2-0 Leicester gave their fans some rare cheer with only their fifth league win as club great Jamie Vardy — leaving at the end of the season — scored in the 17th minute and Jordan Ayew added the second from a free kick just before halftime Relegated Ipswich also had a decent afternoon as they fought back from 2-0 down to draw with Everton 2-2 Beto and Dwight McNeil put Everton in control in the Merseyside club's penultimate game at their venerable Goodison Park home before they move to a new stadium But Julio Enciso's stunning long-range effort before the break sparked a comeback for Ipswich Substitute George Hirst levelled with a far post header Photo: AP PHOTOPrince Harry's claim that he's the victim of a "stitch-up" after losing a legal challenge over his UK security is "really offensive" 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 areaContinueKen Wharfe who was a royal protection officer to Harry believes the duke has "played the wrong card" regarding his security Harry can't expect the "all-singing-and-dancing protection" he had in the United Kingdom" when he was a working member of the royal family Ken Wharfe says Harry's allegation of a "stitch-up" is "really offensive" (AP PHOTO)Harry now needs to show some "humility" if he wants to begin talks with his UK family Harry has called for the Home Secretary to review the body that authorises protection for senior royals after he lost a Court of Appeal challenge last week over his security arrangements while in the UK He told the BBC he "can't see a world in which I would be bringing my wife and children back to the UK" But Wharfe says Harry "has really played the wrong card" "I don't see how he can expect to get full protection when he arrived back in the UK when he is no longer a member working the royal family when he knows that the actual security package comes at the expense of the British taxpayer," he told the PA news agency The police have seen it - so where's the problem?" Harry failed in his appeal against the dismissal of his High Court claim against the Home Office over the decision of the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures that he should receive a different degree of protection when in the UK He told the BBC he can only come to the UK safely if he is invited and King Charles could help resolve the situation by "stepping aside and allowing the experts to do what is necessary" that this is a good old-fashioned establishment stitch-up Harry says the decision "is knowingly putting me and my family in harm's way" Wharfe said: "With regards to the stitch-up I think what he should be doing now is actually showing some humility "If a reconciliation is part of what he wants then this is hardly the way to go about reconciling the differences that exist within your family." Harry's level of security changed in 2020 when he and his wife Meghan stepped down as working royals and moved to Canada but the closure of No.1 Sportsground has put a dampener on Newcastle City's plans to mark a special AFL milestone 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 areaContinueCity of Newcastle (CN) advised local sporting clubs on Friday afternoon of assessments at 152 grounds saying "due to surface water and forecast conditions Among those ruled out of action for the weekend was No.1 Sportsground where Luke Rawnsley was poised to chalk up his 250th senior game for Newcastle City against Port Stephens in Hunter Central Coast AFL The club's life member and widely regarded City "spiritual leader" is instead likely to mark the milestone on the road next round No.1 Sportsground was listed as open on Thursday afternoon but council confirmed to the Newcastle Herald on Friday afternoon that the cricket wicket in the middle of the field had been deemed unplayable and no AFL would proceed there over the weekend All other Hunter Central Coast AFL senior fixtures "Please be advised that if a sportsground has been assessed by CN as closed today it will remain closed over the weekend until CN staff reassess it on Monday 5 May 2025," a council update to sports clubs on Friday afternoon read "Open sportsgrounds require assessment before any play today and over the weekend with clubs being responsible for ongoing inspections to monitor conditions over the weekend inspections must be conducted throughout the licensed period to determine any deterioration and suitability for play." Many Newcastle sportsgrounds remain closed after flash flooding this week Hamilton's Smith Park is among a few grounds still open Newcastle City's Luke Rawnsley will need to wait another week to mark his 250th AFL game for the club Pictures by Marina Neil and suppliedNo.2 Sportsground was listed as closed on Friday afternoon but the Hunter Wildfires will assess the surface on Saturday morning and decide whether play will proceed who play New Zealand at McDonald Jones Stadium on Saturday week (3pm) hit town next week and will use No.2 Sportsground for training One venue cleared for sporting action over the weekend was Hamilton's Smith Park which has undergone a multimillion-dollar spruce up The playing surface at Smith Park has been significantly improved with new drainage and irrigation Oztag and football have been realigned and three synthetic cricket wickets moved City of Newcastle delivered the upgrade with the help of a $2.56 million grant was secured by Newcastle Junior Cricket Association from the state government Rain wreaked havoc across the city this week. National Park netball courts and adjacent soccer fields were submerged Newcastle Netball competition is set to resume after a three-week hiatus on Saturday six-time defending champions West Leagues Balance face off with Souths BNC take on Kotara South and Nova battle Waratah Only two NPLM Northern NSW fixtures set down for this weekend are still scheduled to go ahead Valentine host Broadmeadow at Croudace Bay on Saturday (5pm) and Lambton are home to Cooks Hill on Sunday (2pm) the clash between Lake Macquarie and Charlestown on Friday night was moved to a synthetic surface at Lake Macquarie Regional Football Facility Adamstown host Olympic at the same venue on Saturday night (7pm) and Maitland are scheduled to play Broadmeadow at Cooks Square Park at 4pm that day All Newcastle Rugby League games have been postponed Newcastle sportsground closures can be accessed through council's website Renee Valentine is a sports journalist with more than 20 years of experience in Newcastle. She is passionate about increasing the visibility of sportswomen in the media. Got a sports story, email Renee at r.valentine@newcastleherald.com.au Photo: HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOSComeback kings Canberra have stunned Melbourne to win 20-18 in golden point in one of the most controversial finishes in NRL history 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 areaContinueRaiders captain Jamal Fogarty landed the match-clinching 85th minute penalty after Storm forward Trent Loiero was pinged for a high shot on Hudson Young in front of the posts. The Storm looked set for a Magic Round victory in regulation time their fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen appeared to have sealed the win with a 75th-minute field goal in his 100th NRL game The one-point was disallowed due to Loiero being penalised while in possession for an elbow to the head of Raiders prop Joe Topine in a previous play after referee Gerard Sutton appeared to ask the Bunker for a review It's a pretty hard one to take," Storm coach Craig Bellamy said Three minutes later Raiders fullback Kaeo Weekes scored a stunning individual try regathered and scored to send the match to golden point "Special," Raiders coach Ricky Stuart said of the play The skill to catch the ball in those conditions was probably the most outstanding part." The drama escalated when Storm prop Stefano Utoikamanu was penalised and sin-binned while in possession for stomping on Raiders hooker Tom Starling when his team was in front of the sticks It was the second time the front-rower had conceded a penalty while in possession "I'm not exactly sure what happened," Bellamy said "If he was in the wrong he needs to pick his discipline up You show me a bloke that gives away two penalties when you've got the ball in a game Fogarty then stepped up to win it with a pressure penalty Scintillating Storm winger Sua Fa'alogo earlier shone The final Magic Round clash lived up to its billing as the match of the round with both sides inside the top four There was plenty of heat in the clash between two top-four teams (HANDOUT/NRL PHOTOS)Pocket rocket Fa'alogo set up two tries scored one and made three line breaks in a dazzling display They had come back from an 18-point deficit to win their previous clash with the Dolphins They were behind 14-0 after 25 minutes against the Storm and again rallied to narrow the margin to two at halftime Fa'alogo's 59th-minute try restored a six-point advantage Cameron Munster's  left-foot kick was precision personified Fa'alogo set up a try for Papenhuyzen with a play of pure audacity.The speedy winger broke down the right from 70m out and at full speed hooked an inch-perfect kick onto a flying Papenhuyzen's chest Their hulking winger Savelio Tamale got the better of Fa'alogo with brute strength to score in the corner Raiders centre Matt Timoko was too strong and determined for three Storm defenders as he scored and it was game on at the break There was plenty of feeling between two rivals with a history of titanic battles Two skirmishes between multiple players broke out before Utoikamanu and  Tapine exchanged open-handed shoves with the Storm giant penalised while in possession  Papalii was also put on report for foul play after he gave Papenhuyzen a facial 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 areaContinueBlue skies and warm weather made the autumn festival feel more like late summer as crowds basked in the sunshine or took respite in the available shade The event drew a wide cross-section of the community with families and couples making the most of the festive atmosphere while mixing with the more serious power boat aficionados As well as being an exciting spectator event the Easter Classic is a boon for local businesses with the influx of visitors providing a substantial injection of cash into the local economy View +7 PhotosThere's sure to be plenty of cafes restaurants and petrol stations wishing the event could be run every weekend of the year If you have a story you'd like to share, contact me on rick.kernick@austcommunitymedia.com.au or on 0448 179 544 As the race for Lyne heats up – the National’s candidate has pledged a new urgent care clinic in Taree – to take the pressure off Manning Base Hospital. Local GPs agree access to urgent care is needed, but say the focus should instead be on attracting and retaining more staff. but Knights coach Adam O'Brien said there would be a time and place for the Cessnock junior to let his hair down 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 areaContinueLike the rest of the team after Newcastle's 30-4 win over South Sydney on Saturday O'Brien wanted his players' focus on the next contest The dominant six-try showing at Magic Round in Brisbane was their best performance this year but O'Brien was adamant the victory would count for little if they didn't back it up "It is one game," the coach said immediately after the win Newcastle's third in eight games this season "I'm very mindful that we need to stick at this and the opposition had a few out - let's be honest - we need to stick at this and not get carried away so I think we got back to the hotel and enjoy one or two beers together but our focus now is to make - without being a Grinch - we need to make sure we're building on this." Fletcher Sharpe celebrates a try in Brisbane making his 20th NRL appearance and playing his eighth game at five-eighth He scored twice in the opening 10 minutes and then bagged a hat-trick midway through the second half to ice the result His display came after he had a few quiet games amid Newcastle's collective attacking form slump in recent rounds and I think we're all sort of forgetting that as well," Knights skipper Kalyn Ponga said of Sharpe and it's not a position he is familiar with He puts himself in good positions through effort both on the defence side and the attack side The more opportunities he gets in that position After losing the yardage battle in each of their five prior losses Newcastle rolled through a South Sydney side missing several big names who was returning from a three-game injury layoff Fellow forwards Dylan Lucas and Tyson Frizell chimed in with about 150m each Newcastle's wingers and centres all also ran for more than 200m each "We were always confident if we could just lay a platform give ourselves a chance with both possession and completions," O'Brien said "I think we went 10 from 11 [completed sets] to set the game up I was really proud of their defensive resolve "I've felt like we've been a team that's very resilient defensively and then naturally getting some personnel back to win that middle-third of the field will help [our playmakers] The win improved Newcastle's record to 3-5 and their ladder position to 12th They now have back-to-back home games over the next two rounds against teams placed below them starting with the Gold Coast at home on Friday night before facing the Eels a week later in the same 6pm time slot A Fletcher Sharpe hat-trick on his 21st birthday has helped Newcastle end a five-game losing streak the Knights powering past a depleted South Sydney 30-4 at Magic Round in Brisbane on Saturday After a horror six weeks, falling from fourth on the NRL ladder to 15th amid an attacking form slump Newcastle produced their best performance this year to stun Wayne Bennett's Rabbitohs at Suncop Stadium The Knights had barely struck a blow on the scoreboard in their past five games but it took just five minutes for them to find their first points when five-eighth Sharpe raced onto a Kalyn Ponga grubber to score behind the goalposts The Cessnock ace bagged his second five minutes later before halfback Jack Cogger crossed to help make it 18-0 after just 13 minutes Fletcher Sharpe crosses for a try on Saturday Picture by Getty ImagesA few mistakes helped South Sydney get back into the contest midway through the first half before consistent heavy rain for the last 10 minutes before the break Newcastle extended their lead after half-time via a Bradman Best try in the 46th minute and Sharpe's third in the 61st which sealed a crucial win heading into back-to-back home games over the next two rounds The victory was Newcastle's first since round two and their third this season in eight games It lifted them to 12th on the competition ladder moving ahead of the Rabbitohs who are now 13th Souths, who were missing a host of stars including Latrell Mitchell and Cody Walker Sharpe's two tries in the space of five minutes set Newcastle's victory up but it was their improved go-forward that allowed the playmakers to work their magic Newcastle hadn't won a yardage battle in their past five games but by half-time they had made 1126 run-metres to South Sydney's 833m Rain set in over the ground about the 30th minute Sharpe produced another all-effort play seconds before the break he used the waterlogged field to his advantage pushing Souths fullback Jye Gray back into the in-goal area Ponga and Best combined down the left flank with the centre finishing off a 70-metre play to make it 22-0 Sharpe bagged his hat-trick from some broken play on the same side of the field 15 minutes later Souths winger Isaiah Tass crossed on the right edge in the 65th minute Newcastle had a couple of chances go begging late in the game and while they had a line-break count of 11 to South Sydney's 0 their completion rate - which only just topped 70 per cent - still remains a concern from the field five minutes before full-time Max McKinney is a sports reporter with the Newcastle Herald. He previously worked in news, covering mainly local government and transport. Max mostly reports on the Newcastle Knights, but also covers a mix of local sport. 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."  Photo: James Ross/AAP PHOTOSWhen Geelong coach Chris Scott looks at Collingwood - and he examines them intensely - he can't find flaws 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 areaContinueScott is renowned as a master tactician but has trouble picking apart the Pies ahead of their mouth-watering Saturday night clash at the MCG "The teams that are towards the top end of the ladder these days you can't have too many flaws," Scott told reporters on Friday "So it's easy to highlight their strengths but I can think of a few teams who are really strong in one area that maybe because of their evolution in their list build they are quite weak in another - that makes them really vulnerable good system - that is more the way I look at Collingwood their experienced players are playing well." Master tactician Chris Scott is talking up Collingwood ahead of Geelong's MCG clash with them (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)Scott added: "When you try and assess where the competition is Collingwood are going through a patch where things are going well for them "I wouldn't isolate it just to (Nick) Daicos going well in the middle or (Scott) Pendlebury and (Steele) Sidebottom at the peak of their powers in their mid 30s Craig McRae's ladder-leading Magpies boast a six-one record entering the blockbuster against the seventh-placed Cats (4-3) And imposing Geelong defender Tom Stewart will miss the encounter after aggravating a knee injury in last week's 18-point loss to Carlton "He had a slight injury where he missed a week about a month ago and he fell on that same knee early again in the Carlton game," Scott said "Our medical staff say there's no serious structural damage it was just one where he was going to be limited." Mitch Duncan is back for his first game of the season for the Cats (Joel Carrett/AAP PHOTOS)Veteran Mitch Duncan has been summoned for his first AFL game this season "It was in the back of our minds that this was a possibility," Scott said "The Stewart thing probably helped it a little bit but I suspect that we would have done it anyway." Collingwood have been strengthened by the returns of captain Darcy Moore Stalwart Jeremy Howe has been managed while Dan McStay (knee) and Lachie Sullivan (omitted) will also miss Photo: AP PHOTOA power outage has hit several regions of Indonesia's resort island of Bali with efforts underway to restore services to those affected state utility Perusahaan Listrik Negara says 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 island's airport was also affected but inbound and outbound flight traffic continued the airport's operator said on its Instagram page State utility PLN said it was investigating the cause of the outage and working on restoring the power connection "The recovery process is currently being carried out gradually," its spokesperson in Bali I Wayan Eka Susana said in a statement Images shared on social media showed road traffic delays in Bali as a result of the outage and long lines at airport check-in counters Friday's blackout comes days after a massive outage hit Spain and Portugal plunging tens of millions of people into darkness on the Iberian peninsula Taree businesses have spent the day cleaning up after a severe thunderstorm lashed the region yesterday afternoon. It’s made for a busy 24 hours for the SES, with crews responding to more than 40 calls for help. 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 old fan favourites have gone either killed in action like Scarlett Johansson's Black Widow character or off to other worlds like Chris Hemsworth's Thor is who are we to expect might have the super-humanly powers to save the planet from other comic-book bad guys if The Avengers and their like are no more Thunderbolts* could be enjoyed on its own merit That question and its answer have been teased out over the last dozen or so Marvel movies and television series but if you're not already a hardcore initiate into all this fun pop-culture nonsense is it even worthwhile jumping in at this point Well Thunderbolts* can absolutely stand on its own and as the Disney-owned juggernaut isn't stopping any time soon Julia Louis-Dreyfus's Valentina Allegra de Fontaine is a Marvel version of her Veep Selena Meyer character She's a billionaire dipping her toes in government efficiencies (sound familiar?) recently appointed head of the CIA and getting grilled by a House Oversight Committee about her murky past Valentina needs to exorcise her past indiscretions if she wants to keep her job including torching mutant genetics research laboratories she has funded It also includes getting together the mercenaries she has been paying to clean things up and have them all eliminate each other Thunderbolts* is a decent standalone Marvel interludeBut these individuals realise they've been played by Valentina and decide to team up and pay her back the former Russian superhero Alexei Shostakov (David Harbour) retired former Avenger Bucky Barnes (Sebastian Stan) one of Valentina's human genetic experiments There's an asterisk on that title deliberately because "Thunderbolts" is just a working name for this group of anti-heroes and by the end of the film they'll have another moniker Thunderbolts* is thematically quite dark for a Marvel film a film about existential crisis and the redemptive path back from moral corruption to goodness or at least to not hating yourself and having purpose There are strong emotionally-driven performances particularly for Florence Pugh and Wyatt Russell Russell's John Walker was the short-lived successor to the Captain America job after Steve Rogers retired at the end of Avengers: Endgame but in one of the Marvel TV series he accidentally executed an innocent civilian Pugh's Yelena is the younger sister of Johannson's Black Widow an enhanced Russian assassin who wants to be good like her sister was but can't escape the pull of her training you can appreciate this is a group of broken people acting out but looking for some kind of lifeline and it is their strong performances that hook you emotionally Joanna Call and Kurt Busiek is also full of laughs and for a film that appears to be full of violence Director Jake Schreier has done a bunch of TV notably the Ali Wong Netflix series Beef that was the awards season darling of 2023 He keeps a tight hand on the reins of this behemoth that apparently cost $200M but it's not over-bloated.The CGI is well done with production houses in Victoria and South Australia listed in the credits (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 despite mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid options being available in overseas markets 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 areaContinueSpeaking with CarExpert at the launch of the new Mk8.5 Golf range head of product for Volkswagen Australia – Arjun Nidigallu – said arguing the business case with the company's global parent remains the biggest hurdle "We continually investigate alternative powertrains as a general thing not just for [the] Golf but for every model wherever there's an opportunity," Mr Nidigallu said "The challenges tend to be around creating a business case for it particularly in segments that are smaller in volume." Hundreds of new car deals are available through CarExpert right now. Get the experts on your side and score a great deal. Browse now Volkswagen Golf: PHEV power no closer to AustraliaVolkswagen Golf: PHEV power no closer to Australia"We continue to investigate these things but for the current Golf if we look at what the customers are after very clear that they want the quality and practicality aspects of it in the lower end and of course they want the performance and acceleration in the GTI and R," Mr Nidigallu continued "We haven't seen a clear marker in our data sets for hybridisation as a priority for [Golf] customers but it's not top of the list at the moment for this segment "There are other segments – [like] medium SUV – where electrification is very much desired, and that's why the ID.4 and ID.5 were such a big priority for us and it's the first step we're taking in that direction while it is a general interest for customers it's not on top of the list for Golf buyers at the moment." In the Golf alone there are two different variations offered abroad: a 150kW in the standard Golf and a 200kW tune in the GTE with both quoting over 130km of WLTP-certified electric driving range in their latest forms PHEVs have been a struggle for all of the VW Group in Australia, particularly in the smaller segments, though Cupra offers the Leon and Formentor with plug-in tech These use the older 1.4-litre PHEV powertrain with less range – in the 50-60km realm – though both models and the incoming Terramar will move to the Golf GTE's 200kW eHybrid system with double the EV range this year Volkswagen Passenger Vehicles in Australia has made a number of attempts to bring the Golf PHEV Down Under, starting with the Mk7 GTE last decade before backflipping due to high global demand, and more recently the Mk8.5 GTE which was likewise abandoned Skoda Australia recently confirmed it's planning to bring the mild-hybrid 1.5 eTSI powertrain to the Octavia before the end of this year as a running change to the lineup the Skoda runs the same 1.4 TSI and eight-speed auto transmission as the Golf Likewise the aforementioned Cupra Leon and Formentor will offer the 1.5 eTSI and 1.5 TSI eHybrid drivetrains with their incoming facelifts, joined by the larger Terramar SUV which will also get MHEV and PHEV options unlike the related VW Tiguan Volkswagen Golf: PHEV power no closer to AustraliaDespite VW's stance on demand for electrified small vehicles the Golf is being outpaced by rivals with varying degrees of electrification on the Australian sales charts The Hyundai i30 and Toyota Corolla currently outsell the Golf by quite some margin with the Hyundai offering 48V mild-hybrid and full-hybrid options across its i30 Hatch and Sedan respectively while the entire Corolla range is hybrid-only as of mid-2024 Further, the all-electric MG 4 hatchback is likewise beating out the Golf in year-to-date volume (1335 v 853) as of March 31 Elsewhere in the small passenger segment, the Mazda 3 has previously offered 24V mild-hybrid tech, though has reverted to ICE-only; and the Honda Civic has gone hybrid-only Down Under Stay tuned to CarExpert for our Australian launch drive review of the new Mk8.5 Volkswagen Golf and Golf GTI on May 8 Volkswagen Golf: PHEV power no closer to AustraliaAre you holding out for an electrified VW Golf MORE: Everything Volkswagen Golf providing a sparkling backdrop for all the colour and pageantry of the traditional parade and ceremony 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 areaContinueHundreds of people lined Victoria Street to cheer on the parade which culminated in the commemorative service held in Fotheringham Park by the memorial clock tower Paul Allan acted as Master of Ceremonies for the service which featured addresses from Taree RSL-Sub branch president who spoke of the gallantry of the men and women who have served in the armed forces Darcy also spoke about the history of the memorial clock tower - the construction of which was funded by residents and businesses of Taree and the surrounding areas The commemorative service adjacent to the memorial clock tower drew a large crowd for Anzac Day 2025. Picture by Rick KernickCommunity SpiritAlso speaking at the ceremony was MidCoast councillor, Jeremy Miller, who talked of the strong community spirit within the Taree area Local musician Brianna Xuereb delivered a stirring rendition of the Lee Kernaghan song I will always be with you - a song written as a tribute to our Afghan Veterans and the nation's younger diggers A host of local schools and community organisations laid wreaths at the memorial site before Darcy Elbourne presented local RSL and community identity marking the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War View +21 PhotosAt 99-years-old and a WWII RAAF enlisted personnel Dulcie accepted the award with the grace and kind heartedness she is so well known for It was a morning displaying the collective spirit of the greater Taree community "It's always a wonder service here in Taree and incredible it is to see how good the turnout every single year including the school kids and the teachers on their holidays it's a real community celebration," Cr Miller said "There's something special about this community I thought all communities turned out like this I've been to other towns on the south coast and they just don't get the turnout like this "There's something about these services here locally that the whole community comes together to show our respect and remembrance." Specialised counselling services and resources for veterans are available through Open Arms Veterans and Families Counselling Service This service offers free and confidential counselling and support for current and former ADF members and their families Photo: Steven Markham/AAP PHOTOSLachlan Ilias is low on confidence after some poor performances but coach Shane Flanagan says the axed St George Illawarra halfback is too good to not wear the No.7 again 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 areaContinueIlias was not the only one to blame for the Dragons' damaging 46-18 loss to Sydney Roosters on Anzac Day but a change needed to be made to allow him to find some form A shortened pre-season was one of the reasons Flanagan gave for Ilias being short on belief to start the year; Ilias was still recovering from a serious leg fracture when he signed for the Dragons But the coach is confident we haven't seen the last of Ilias in the Red V's first-grade team adding the former South Sydney playmaker's positive approach will boost his quest to return to the starting side and he just needs to go and find a little bit of form and a bit of confidence," Flanagan said ahead of the Dragons' Magic Round clash with Wests Tigers on Saturday night no one wants to get dropped but he'll go back and work hard and we'll see him again." Multiple Dragons underperformed in the Anzac Day thumping; Flanagan hinted some of Ilias' teammates could consider themselves lucky to have held their spots Lachlan Ilias will need to regain form and confidence to earn a recall (Mark Evans/AAP PHOTOS)"He (Ilias) was one of many that didn't turn up that day I just felt that we needed a change," he said whether it's the right way or the wrong way Ilias' replacement at halfback is 19-year-old Lyhkan King-Togia whom Flanagan backed to show composure beyond his years in his return to first grade who played four NRL games at the end of 2024 announced a two-year contract extension with the Dragons on Tuesday Flanagan said the new deal would not put any more pressure on the young half than he faced when called up late last year doesn't get over-excited or show any frustration and he'll handle it really well," Flanagan said "We had to win footy games to make the finals last year and you wouldn't have seen any change in Lyhkan's temperament or demeanour going into those games The coach has big plans for the incoming halfback and believes he could be the young playmaker of the future the Dragons have been searching for and we've got one we think can take us a little bit further," he said but the motorsport has been linked to cruising for decades is a popular part of luxury cruise itineraries Windstar pioneered Grand Prix cruises in the 1990s 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 areaContinueFor the big event this month Explora Journeys' 922-guest Explora II will be docked in Monte Carlo for six days I cannot fathom the costs for this glamorous vessel to be used as a floating hotel during such an expensive week in such an expensive place but those lucky revheads will be soaking in the fumes and excitement Fares include grandstand tickets opposite the pits with upgrades available for behind-the-scenes experiences Paddock Club hospitality includes tours of the pit lane and team garages The Monaco Triple Crown fare adds an exclusive lunch by Gordon Ramsay and premium seats at La Rascasse corner Celestyal Journey will be in Abu Dhabi for the Grand Prix.Boarding on May 21 a five-night stay starts at $18,500 per person but three-night is the title sponsor of this year's Austrian Sao Paulo and United States F1 World Championship grands prix MSC has also become a premium partner of one of the racing teams so you will see its logo all over the cars and racetracks Windstar is still operating its Prix du Monde of Monaco voyages aboard the 324-passenger Wind Surf in 2025 and 2026 both including an overnight stay in Monte Carlo Packages include tickets to the time trials with a racing expert guest speaker on board Silversea's Silver Ray is sailing a 12-night cruise via Monte Carlo during race weekend Passengers can purchase its shore excursions with grandstand seating or viewing from a private apartment terrace or rooftop Azamara Quest's five-night cruise from Barcelona will dock in nearby Nice A nine-hour excursion takes guests across the border to the race The Middle East is the other hotspot for motor racing and Celestyal Cruises has the most affordable F1 trip the 1260-passenger Celestyal Journey will be in Abu Dhabi for the Grand Prix The seven-night cruise is priced from only $899 per person plus grandstand packages starting at $1132 Young people are consuming less alcohol than previous generations so cruise lines may need to get more creative than selling unlimited drinks packages was held in Florida to share the latest food and beverage trends on cruises Ready-to-drink options are growing in popularity such as canned prosecco and espresso martinis on tap Unicorn Distillery demonstrated colour-changing cocktails which are a popular way to delight passengers French Bloom introduced the art of pairing meals with premium non-alcoholic sparkling wine According to California winery Josh Cellars which is why we just had "the summer of spritz" 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 areaContinueMackenzie Anderson was murdered by her former partner Tyrone Thompson young mother Mackenzie Anderson had predicted her own tragic ending unable to escape a controlling and violent ex Mackenzie's fate seemed almost predestined her horrific death "no surprise" but something that occurred in "slow motion" an extremely violent and deeply troubled young man had finished serving a non-parole period for domestic violence offences against Mackenzie just two weeks before he took her life on bail and there was an apprehended violence order in place prohibiting any contact with Mackenzie Thompson breached the order as soon as he was released, calling Mackenzie to tell her he was "coming for her and that he loved her". told friends she was scared Thompson was going to kill her Her family say she lived in constant fear and was "convinced" Thompson would murder her upon his release "My ex Tyrone just got out of jail from what he did to me and is still being weird and harassing me.. he couldn't last 24 hours," Mackenzie messaged a friend A domestic violence-related death in those circumstances is repugnant enough Tyrone Thompson this week faced a sentence hearing in Newcastle Supreme Court after he pleaded guilty to murdering Mackenzie Anderson at Mayfield in 2022 Picture: FacebookHe had tried to break her spirit isolate her and thought he had control over her But when he felt that control slipping on the night of March 25 he twice broke back into Mackenzie's unit at Mayfield before he stabbed her more than 78 times with two knives a tale of fear and violence with a tragic ending predicted by its protagonist From the moment she took her last breath up until earlier this week Thompson had shown no remorse and no insight into Mackenzie's murder and the number of lives he had ruined A letter of apology handed up to Justice Richard Weinstein on Tuesday touched on the "guilt and shame" he now felt but also focused on what prosecutors labelled "victim blaming". "Mackenzie received a life sentence of death and so did we as her family and friends," Ms Acret had said in her victim impact statement Thompson avoided receiving a life sentence of his own Justice Weinstein finding Thompson's moral culpability for the murder was not so extreme that it called for the dangerous killer to spend the rest of his natural life behind bars Thompson was jailed for a maximum of 22 years and six months with a non-parole period of 15 years and six months He will first become eligible for parole in 2038 Justice Weinstein had found Thompson was not psychotic at the time of the murder had intended to kill Mackenzie and had used his apology letter to try to shift some of the blame to the victim He also said the murder was "objectively serious" and was aggravated by a number of factors the AVO and the fact Mackenzie was murdered in her own home But Justice Weinstein said he had to weigh all of that against Thompson's youth background of deprivation and diagnoses of complex PTSD and severe personality disorder that reduced his moral culpability and would make his time in jail - where he is considered so dangerous and unpredictable that he has never had contact with another inmate - more onerous And so Justice Weinstein spared him life in jail and instead imposed a sentence that could see him released before his 40th birthday The sentence is said to have shocked and devastated Mackenzie's family who were present in Newcastle Supreme Court on Friday Thompson was emotionless throughout Friday's judgment as he watched the proceedings via audio visual link from jail read a heartbreaking victim impact statement in Newcastle Supreme Court on Monday Main picture by Marina NeilAccording to an agreed statement of facts Thompson and Mackenzie started dating in late 2019 and had an on-and-off relationship until October 2021 that was marred by domestic violence Thompson pleaded guilty to assaulting and intimidating Mackenzie and damaging her property on October 24 2021 and was ultimately jailed for a maximum of nine months with a non-parole period of four months and two weeks despite an AVO being in place to protect Mackenzie which had an order that he not have any contact with her or approach her home Thompson began trying to reconnect with her He called her "as soon as he was released" telling her "that he was coming for her and that he loved her" He reached out to her on social media from multiple accounts and contacted people who knew Mackenzie's new partner Mackenzie and Thompson were in communication and the pair spent much of the next six days together walking into NSW Supreme Court earlier this month where he would plead guilty to murdering Mackenzie Anderson the pair were at Mackenzie's unit with one of Mackenzie's friends and drank alcohol and socialised during the afternoon Thompson became emotional and told Mackenzie "how much he loved her and that she didn't appreciate the things he did for her" She asked him to leave and messaged her friend who was at the unit with them "don't leave me alone with him" Thompson began moving knives in the kitchen pulling a large blade out of a drawer and putting it on a bench but he didn't say anything or threaten anyone at that stage Mackenzie's friend had convinced Thompson to leave and intended to walk him to the nearest train station But he lost sight of him and Thompson doubled back to Mackenzie's unit climbed a ladder onto her second floor balcony and she awoke to him in a bedroom The friend again convinced Thompson to leave and Mackenzie called triple-zero telling police: "my ex-boyfriend's broken in She also said "he came at me with a knife" and "[he may have a knife still] because there was two that he had out [and] only one of them is here" Thompson returned to the unit and murdered Mackenzie The details of the killing are too graphic to publish A number of residents in neighbouring units heard the attack and called police or came outside to try to assist When police arrived they had to tell Thompson to be quiet and stop screaming about his bleeding hand so they could check whether Mackenzie was breathing She died at the scene and Thompson later told police a rambling story about using the knife to defend himself from Mackenzie and then I've just literally grabbed the knife "It took as many times to stab her till she fucken stopped Before his guilty plea, Thompson had intended to claim he was acting in self-defence a suggestion Ms Acret said was unbelievable "There was no way that anyone would think this was self-defence," she said in her victim impact statement on Monday Mackenzie Anderson with her mum Tabitha Acret (left) Picture: InstagramDuring their victim impact statements Mackenzie's step-father and her three best friends had attempted to put into words the profound and wide-reaching effects of her senseless murder They talked about the cruelty, control fear and violence before Mackenzie's death and then the despair, hopelessness, trauma and grief that came afterwards. And they talked about a system that had let Mackenzie down The 21-year-old had sent emails to domestic violence services asking for support and assistance only to receive a reply after her death that Ms Acret said read: "we are closing your request for support because you are now dead" Mackenzie's three best friends compiled a single victim impact statement and spoke eloquently and profoundly about the scourge of domestic violence and the 21-year-old's battle to be free of Thompson's control to isolate her and to take her voice," they said "Like many women caught in cycles of abuse he thought that by taking her life he could erase her strength Because even in death she is stronger than he ever will be." Anna FalkenmirePolice and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald. Email: afalkenmire@austcommunitymedia.com.au Police and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald. Email: afalkenmire@austcommunitymedia.com.au Trenton Jones and Amaya Cross are gearing up to represent the Taree Torpedoes on the national stage at the Australian Age Swimming Championships this weekend. The competition in Brisbane seeing hundreds of swimmers from across the country go head to head. Photo: AP PHOTORomanians will vote in the first round of a presidential election that could propel hard-right Eurosceptic George Simion to power in a ballot that will test the rise of Donald-Trump-style nationalism in the European Union 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 areaContinueSimion opposes military aid to neighbouring Ukraine is critical of the EU leadership and says he is aligned with the US president's Make America Great Again movement Five months after a first attempt to hold the election was cancelled after the first round because of alleged Russian interference in favour of far-right frontrunner Calin Georgescu his heir apparent Simion leads opinion polls Calin Georgescu was banned from running again (AP PHOTO)Voting starts at 7am on Sunday and ends at 9pm (4am Monday AEST) with the early turnout more than twice that of November's cancelled first round a comfortable lead but well short of the 50 per cent he needs to avoid a run-off on May 18 Political analysts said an ultimate victory for Simion could isolate the country erode private investment and destabilise NATO's eastern flank where Romania's neighbour Ukraine is fighting a Russian invasion backed by the three parties in the current pro-Western government running as an independent on an anti-corruption platform Both are pro-EU and pro-NATO and back Ukraine a former leftist prime minister who has turned conservative nationalist is ranked fourth but could prove a dark horse Simion is not the only MAGA-style politician seeking election in central Europe the presidential candidate backed by Poland's main nationalist opposition party in a presidential election on May 18 they would expand a cohort of Eurosceptic leaders that already includes the Hungarian and Slovak prime ministers "Romania and Poland are two important countries for the United States," Simion told Reuters on Friday "We represent partners and we represent allies This is why it is important for MAGA presidents to be in charge in Bucharest and Warsaw." The Trump administration has accused Romania of suppressing political opposition and lacking democratic values after November's election was cancelled A team of US observers were in Bucharest for Sunday's vote Photo: AP PHOTOUS job growth slowed marginally in April but the outlook for the labour market is increasingly darkening as President Donald Trump's aggressive tariff policy heightens economic uncertainty 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 areaContinueNon-farm payrolls increased by 177,000 jobs last month after rising by a downwardly revised 185,000 in March the Labor Department's Bureau of Labor Statistics said in its employment report on Friday Economists polled by Reuters had forecast 130,000 jobs added last month after a previously reported 228,000 advance in March Estimates ranged from 25,000 to 195,000 jobs added The US economy needs to create roughly 100,000 jobs per month to keep up with growth in the working-age population The unemployment rate held steady at 4.2 per cent The latest labour market figures are too early to gauge the impact of Donald Trump's tariffs (AP PHOTO)The report is backward-looking and it is too early for the labour market to show the impact of Trump's on-and-off again tariffs policy A flood of imports as businesses tried to get ahead of tariffs weighed on the economy in the first quarter Trump's "Liberation Day" tariff announcement ushered in sweeping duties on most imports from the United States' trade partners including boosting duties on Chinese goods to 145 per cent sparking a trade war with Beijing and tightening financial conditions Trump later delayed higher reciprocal tariffs for 90 days which economists said was essentially a pause on the whole economy as it left businesses in a state of paralysis and risked a recession if there was no clarity soon The labour market continues to show resilience amid a reluctance by employers to let go of workers after struggling to find labour during and after the COVID-19 pandemic which economists expect will at some point give way to layoffs airlines have pulled their 2025 financial forecasts citing uncertainty over spending on non-essential travel because of tariffs the Federal Reserve is expected to keep its benchmark overnight interest rate in the 4.25 per cent to 4.50 per cent range next week Economists expect companies will reduce hours before resorting to mass layoffs Most economists anticipate the tariff drag could become evident by summer in the so-called hard data including employment and inflation reports 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 areaContinueHowever, council has allocated $14,200 towards events being held by Gloucester Worimi First People's Aboriginal Corporation ($4000) Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Aboriginal Reference Group ($4000) Forster Local Aboriginal Land Council ($4000) and Taree Universities Campus ($2200) With the exception of Libertarian councillor Mick Graham the recommendation was carried unopposed at the April monthly council meeting last Wednesday The NAIDOC funding policy was approved in December 2023 following a pilot program earlier that year Mia Mills (15) and Grace Storch (13) were part of the impressive dance troupe who performed at last year's celebrations in Forster Picture by Jeanene DuncanCr Nicole Turnbull commended the applicants on their proposals but urged them to in future to look at the criteria "There is a reason why we have the criteria so that we can select the right applicants and to make sure that t goes to the right places that we support," she said "But it's really great to give the money to these four organisations." Cr Peter Howard echoed her comments and took the opportunity to remind all community groups to submit a report following the event This strikes me as very good use of ratepayer money It's important we see how funds are spent and to account for ratepayer money that's allocated for events "All of these events look like good fun," Cr Peter Beazley said "They seem to be for all the community and the only one that was not approved seemed to be an expensive event," he said "But this strikes me as very good use of ratepayer money." In Forster the money will be put towards the long standing Cabarita Community Day a celebration which will be attended by childcare centres government agencies and the broader community The gala event will celebrate local Aboriginal history and culture with a traditional opening ceremony Taree Universities Campus (TUC) will use its $2000 funding to conduct two cultural walking tours co-presented by local Elder Uncle Russell Saunders and historian Tea Gardens Hawks Nest community members will gather on Marine Drive and accompanied by Manning Great Lakes Police District officers March to Tea Gardens Public School where a team indigenous educators from the LALC and Murrook will provide cultural activities such as Boomerang and spear education and throwing Manning Great Lakes National Parks and Wildlife Service rangers serve morning tea while the Lions Club will cook up a sausage and fish barbecue lunch She also worked for Stock Journal Newspaper (SA) Jeanene has more than 40 years experience as a regional and rural journalist starting at The Land Newspaper the Hon Dr David Gillespie and Tanya Thompson have taken part in a sod-turning ceremony to mark the beginning of construction of Taree’s long-planned Iron Arena project announced funding under the Bushfire local Economic Recovery Fund to deliver the new project replacing the Taree Indoor Sports Stadium “Initially we announced $8.251 million towards the project however due to several delays with the planning process and access to building materials and resources the project cost has escalated,” Dr Gillespie said “I’m delighted the funding has increased to $12.9 million to ensure the project can now proceed,” Dr Gillespie said the Iron Arena would provide a transformative change for the region’s economy attracting a range of high-profile events at the local “Iron Arena will cater for a range of activities meeting latent demand especially in basketball and futsal as well as a range of new sports such as volleyball and indoor hockey while also hosting trade shows and concerts “This new regional facility will not only deliver significant sporting and social benefits but also broader economic benefits to the Manning Valley.” said she’s so excited to see the project moving ahead because it’s something Stephen Bromhead was so passionate about “The Iron Arena will be a huge asset for our region not only supporting local sporting opportunities but also attracting major events and boosting our local economy,” said Mrs Thompson “I can’t wait to see this facility come together and to see our sporting athletes enjoy this facility for years to come.” Completion of the project is expected in 2025 Privacy Policy 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 championships were held at the Chandler Aquatic Centre bringing together some of the best young swimmers in the country Representing the Torpedoes at the championships were Ryan Brown Ryan competed in the 16-years boys 50 metre breaststroke going into the event ranked 54th in Australia for this event Ryan Brown had a great swim and took 0.82 seconds off his personal best time, in the process gaining a qualifying time for the Swimming Australia World Championship trials to be held in Adelaide in June of this year Ryan Brown. Picture suppliedAmaya Cross contested the 14-years girls ' 50 metre breaststroke and freestyle on Monday and Tuesday and was close to her qualifying times for both events Trenton Jones swam in the 18-years boys 100 metre butterfly going into the event hoping for a personal best time and possibly a top 20 finish that would qualify him for the B finals Picture suppliedTrenton swam his heats on Friday April 18 ranked 23rd for his event and ended up swimming a personal best time Trenton had another great swim with another personal best time of 57.02 seconds taking another 0.28 seconds off his time which sees him now ranked at 15th in Australia for this event 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 areaContinueAt around 3pm the Westpac Rescue Helicopter was tasked by NSW Ambulance on an urgent inter-hospital transfer from Manning Base Hospital in Taree to Newcastle's John Hunter Hospital was suffering from a serious medical condition was stabilised by hospital staff and the NSW Ambulance critical care paramedic and a NSW Health doctor from the helicopter's critical care medical team before being airlifted to Newcastle A man has been shot dead by police in a hospital car park on the NSW Mid North Coast. Police were called to Rouse Street in Wingham, around 10km from Taree, following reports a man was firing shots in the air. While hunting the alleged gunman in the area, police found the man in the car park of Manning Base Hospital at about 12.55pm today. He allegedly pointed a gun at the officers, police said in a statement. The man was then shot by police at the scene. He was immediately treated by officers and paramedics, however died in hospital a short time later. The man, who is yet to be identified, is believed to be aged in his 30s. A critical incident investigation team is now looking into the matter and an independent review will take place. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced