it did not stop people flocking to the 'Royal of the North' 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 Wauchope Show hosted its 113th annual event on Friday the Wauchope Show Society thanked the community for its attendance "The Wauchope Show isn't just an event - it's the heart and soul of our community," the statement read and the spirit of rural Australia truly shines." 2025.Showgoers made the most of the competitions food and activities on display as children made the most of their last full week of school holidays "Thank you for showing up with your boots on and your smiles shining through the rain," the statement said and your support breathe life into the Wauchope Show every year Lucas is a journalist with the Port Macquarie News. He completed his Bachelor of Communications (Journalism) degree through Charles Sturt University and previously worked with the Wimmera Mail-Times. Lucas is originally from Newcastle, New South Wales. Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Today's top stories curated by our news team. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Get news, reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert, ACM's exclusive motoring partner. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over. Your digital replica of Today's Paper. Ready to read from 5am! CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Council is upgrading Beechwood Road between Waugh Street and Glenview Drive (Stage 6) including replacing the existing timber bridge (named Steels Bridge) at Yippin Creek.  The upgrade of Beechwood Road was identified by Council as an infrastructure priority and resolved at its March 2013 Ordinary Meeting in relation to Roads Infrastructure Projects.   This project is critical to cater for the region’s growth particularly in and around Wauchope through this part of Beechwood Road and will see the replacement of an ageing timber bridge structure that has required regular maintenance.  The reconstruction of Beechwood Road was divided into six stages – with stages 1-4 (Western extent) already constructed and complete Timing for Stage 5 (final stage adjacent Yippin Creek Road) will be determined once further funding has been secured.   Beechwood Road Upgrade Stage 6 will provide improved flood resilience to allow future residential development in Yippin Creek and subsequently prioritised ahead of Stage 5 The project has received $5 million funding via the Australian Government’s Bridges Renewal Program $6 million proudly funded by the NSW Government Accelerated Infrastructure Fund and a Council contribution up to $3 million Beechwood Rd Stage 6 Glenview Dr Intersection Beechwood Rd Stage 6 Steelsville Rd intersection Beechwood Rd Stage 6 Waugh St Intersection Council is committed to improving local infrastructure and addressing community needs is a critical step in upgrading Beechwood Road to cater for the region's growth The reconstruction of Beechwood Road was divided into six stages – with stages 1-4 (western extent) already complete Due to the importance of replacing Steels Bridge Stage 6 has been prioritised ahead of Stage 5 and we are currently working on the design and obtaining environmental approvals $6 million funding from the NSW Government’s Accelerated Infrastructure Fund and a Council contribution of up to $3 million reduce ongoing maintenance costs and ensure Beechwood Road can cater to future growth particularly in the Yippin Creek area.  While formal consultation processes may not be required for all landholders Council is committed to keeping the community informed We will provide regular updates through local media letterbox drops and direct communication with immediately affected residents a Review of Environmental Factors will be undertaken as part of the design process and the project will adhere to all relevant environmental regulations and guidelines While investigations will primarily occur within the road reserve landholders will receive prior notification if access to their property is required.  geotechnical investigations and environmental assessments have minimal impact on traffic flow there might be brief periods of lane closures or traffic control during site visits or surveys You can stay informed about the project's progress through: Phone Customer Service (02) 6581 8111 or email council@pmhc.nsw.gov.au or you can report most issues online, via our report an issue page. Watch the video below to cruise along a virtual tour and flyover of Beechwood Road Stage 6 the traditional owners of the land in which we work and live We extend our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who choose to call Port Macquarie Hastings home "The replay" is of Tony's grand sprinter Weffalee Shield (Sennachie-Tweety) which made history of his own when on Wednesday night he won his third consecutive Wauchope Cup. This year's running, over 525m at Taree, followed his two wins in the race at the Wauchope track. Weffalee Shield swept to the front in the back straight and then held off a determined Party Mode to win by a length and a quarter in the fast time of 30.35 with Bandit Chloe in third. "By the time I got home (to Quorrobolong near Cessnock), did the dogs, it was 2am before I could get to bed," said Tony. "But, I had to watch the replay … 20 times." Tony said today there would be no thought of attempting a fourth Wauchope Cup. "I'm not even going to think about it," he said. "At the moment, the plan is to take on a few Masters races around Maitland and The Gardens." Tony was still smarting today a painful hand the legacy of it being shaken so often after the victory. "And I will need a nap this afternoon," he said. Weffalee Shield followed Tony's race plan to the letter. "I reckoned the five (She's A Bumpy) is desperate to get to the fence and I thought she might cause a bit of a problem inside her and then given him a bit of a hole to get through early," he said. "He has great second section pace and when he raced to Party Mode in the back straight and got to the front, I knew he would win. "That's a really good dog, Party Mode, so for him to beat him is really something. "But it was easily one of my dog's best wins. He was so dominant." Tony was quick to point out that his grand campaigner, winner now of 31 races and $126,000, was easily the oldest dog in the race, older than some by a year and others by two. "It's an unreal feeling," said Tony of the victory. "Easy pickings" in Masters racing are his only target from now. "I'll just poke along with him, play it by ear what we do with him," said Tony. Weffalee Shield's pedigree is a tribute to the Wheeler family bloodlines, with his pedigree carrying Fernando Bale, Barcia Bale and Bekim Bale 2x2x3. PETER Akers' Physicality (Aston Rupee-Agnetha) led virtually throughout to win the time-honoured Butch Monkley Maiden final (300m). He ran 17.22 to down Cash The Lot by two and a half lengths with favourite Offenbach in third. The project has been awarded $350,000 from the Federal Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program. The courts will be located in front of the car park, at the southern end of Andrews Park on Cameron Street. Stage 1 of the Landrigan and Andrews Parks masterplan is for the construction of two multi-use hard courts. “This project will I know be welcomed by not only players, coaches and parents involved in netball in Wauchope, but also the broader community,” said Member for Lyne Dr David Gillespie. “There is a great deal of demand for sporting facilities in Wauchope, particularly at the stadium adjacent to the field area. “The local netball community will now have access to their own designated space for competition, and this will help free up some capacity at the stadium,” Dr Gillespie said. Dr Gillespie congratulated Port Macquarie-Hastings Council on the project. “I’d particularly like to thank not only Mayor Pinson and the staff for their work in developing the masterplan, but in particular I’d like to congratulate Councillor Josh Slade on the enormous work he has done with the community on this project,” Dr Gillespie said. Mayor Peta Pinson said Council was committed to investing in the upgrade of Landrigan and Andrews Parks. “In April this year, Council adopted the Master Plan for both parks to better plan for our community’s growing reliance on this important sporting precinct,” Mayor Pinson said. “Located in the heart of Wauchope, these parks will play a major role in the provision of accessible sport for a variety of user groups well into the future.” Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked * Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); 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 areaContinueCameron John Van der Linden was due to appear before the magistrate Georgina Darcy at Port Macquarie Local Court on Thursday a search of a vehicle occupied by Van der Linden on December 30 found 13 tobacco pouches containing tobacco and shopping bags with 3400 tax-free cigarettes a further 16 tobacco pouches with a total weight of 2.7 kilograms of tobacco leaf An arrest warrant has been issued for Cameron John Van der Linden after he failed to appear in Port Macquarie Local Court Picture by Emily Walker/ Google MapsAll were later confirmed to be products stolen during the various break and enters Police also found several tools like sledgehammers and items that matched the tools depicted being used to break into the CP Tobacconist Van der Linden has pleaded guilty to a string of charges The court heard that Van der Linden broke into CP Tobacconist on Brandson Street on at least three occasions between December 24 and 29 Van der Linden stole a safe from the business Police came across Van der Linden on December 30 when officers patrolling Telegraph Point spotted him as the passenger in a blue/silver-coloured Hyundai The car was revealed to have stolen plates and police stopped it at Haydon's Wharf Road in Cooperabung where they carried out a search of the vehicle police attended an address in Cooperabung to execute a search warrant police spotted Van der Linden leaving the gazebo and driving towards police in an unregistered black Holden ute with someone in the passenger seat with the ute travelling onto the Old Pacific Highway before driving onto a fire trail and crashing into a fallen tree Van de Linden escaped on foot into dense bushland and evaded police another pursuit on January 9 saw Van der Linden narrowly avoid arrest again but his days of freedom came to an end when police arrested him at a Wauchope address on January 10 Reporter at Macleay Argus and Port Macquarie News. 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 reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over Your digital replica of Today's Paper The Wauchope Blues are this year being led by a Manly Sea Eagles legend The new president hopes to mentor some of the region’s best up and coming players in this year’s Group 3 season Tony and his grand campaigner head into their third Wauchope Cup Final next Wednesday night having won the previous two runnings in 2023 and 2024 when both were held on the Wauchope track. Weffalee Shield (Sennachie-Tweety) ran 30.44 to win his Wauchope Cup heat (525m) on Wednesday night at Taree and has come up with box six in the final in his bid for three straight Cup victories. "But," said Tony. "In his 100 race starts, he has never won out of box six." Weffalee Shield has won 30 races, been placed 33 times, and earned $116,000. "He's just turned four and he absolutely loves to race. "Every time we arrive at a racetrack, he hops out of the car wagging his tail, ready to go. "He's been a terrific dog, so easy to do anything with, very few injuries. "He will keep racing while he is going so well." Tony pointed out that Weffalee Shield had run 22.40 at his previous start at Maitland against top graders. "He ran 22.40 there when he was a pup, so he's going as good as ever," said Tony. The Wauchope Cup final will be run next Wednesday night worth $10,000 to the winner. Wefallee Shield got a start as a reserve in both previous Wauchope Cup finals and won both. Tony is well aware that wide boxes at Taree are tough to overcome. "But, if he can get a bit of clear air early they will know they have been in a race," he said. Hardest to beat, says Tony, is Lottie Ellie from the Charlie Lamb kennel who won its heat in 30.61. 2025 Wauchope Cup (525m) at Taree: 1 Bandit Chloe, 2 Flying Goddess, 3 No Shares, 4 Lottie Ellie, 6 She's A Bumpy, 6 Weffalee Shield, 7 Party Mode, 8 Kiarni Black Ace. Res: 9 Ali Tango, 10 Stockton Slap. Watch 22sAbout 76,000 flying foxes have established a camp at Wauchope. Officers responding to concern for welfare reports attended Rollover Road, which is on the way to Bago Bluff, just after 7am on Sunday, 17 November. They found a 32-year-old man suffering gunshot wounds to his arms and legs. He was treated at the scene by NSW Ambulance paramedics and taken to hospital in a serious condition. Police were told three people allegedly kidnapped the man from Port Macquarie and took him to Bago State Forest, where he was shot. Specialist officers recovered bullet casings during their search of the crime scene. Strike Force Parham was launched to investigate, which led police to Western Australia. On Thursday, 21 November, Western Australia Police arrested 38-year-old Nykeeta Ashley Jones and 25-year-old Matthew Campbell McDonald at Barradonia, south of Kalgoorlie. A loaded sawn-off rifle was allegedly seized during a search of their vehicle. Jones was extradited to Sydney on Monday morning, 25 November, and charged at Mascot Police Station with: – kidnap in company with intent serious indictable occasion actual bodily harm – possess shortened firearm (not pistol) without authority – possess ammunition without holding licence/permit/authority She appeared in Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday where she was formally refused bail and ordered to appear in Port Macquarie Local Court next Thursday, 5 December. McDonald was extradited from Perth Airport on Tuesday and also charged at Mascot. He appeared in Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, 27 November, and was formally refused bail. His case is listed for a Brief Status in Port Macquarie Local Court on 22 January, 2025. 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 Port Macquarie Wauchope RSL pipes and drums band led those marching to the cenotaph which included former service men and women school children along with guide and scout groups Wauchope RSL sub-branch president Mick Brownlow was the master of ceremonies and offered the following in his prologue "We're here today to honour those before us .. If we found ourselves in future conflict we will too act in honour of our country," Mr Brownlow said Speeches were also by the captains of St Joseph's Primary School Wauchope High School captains Lucy Collins and Lucas Phillips spoke to ensuring the Anzac spirit lives on through future generations April 25.Ms Collins provided insight into the meaning of two fig tress planted on a relatives farm to honour two family members lost while serving their country national president of the national motorcycle club made a point of supporting those who have and continue to serve our country "It is vital to support our veterans to ensure they know that they're not alone," Mr Tonkin said Mr Brownlow read "The Ode" while young bugler Charlotte Cliffe displayed her talent in performing the 'Last Post' and 'Rouse' The Wauchope Tennis Club Championships have officially wrapped up – the three day competition returning after a 40 year hiatus. More than a hundred locals hit the courts, with the competition set to become a regular event on the Mid North Coast calendar. THE Camden Haven Eagles Under 15s Girls Tackle team will do battle with Wauchope in sudden death finals action on Sunday. The Eagles defeated the Taree Red Rovers 10-4 in their first round of “do or die” finals at Foster on Sunday 11 August. Going into their match with only one on the bench the girls knew they would be in for a tough battle. Led by inspiring captain Chloe Gaskin-Hogan, the Eagles displayed a relentless spirit throughout. An exceptional Gaskin-Hogan try – where she powered through five Taree defenders – symbolised the team’s never-say-die attitude. ‘Player of the Day’ Matilda Hammond turned in an outstanding performance, with her tackling prowess a crucial factor in securing her team’s victory. Coach Peter Bird expressed immense pride in his team’s performance. “The girls were exceptional on the weekend,” he said. “They were a credit to themselves, their parents and to all of their supporters who made the trip to watch them play.” Bird told NOTA his players were starting to “reap the rewards” of exhaustive early season training. He also praised the invaluable contribution of co-coach Jamie Averillo. The Stingrays women’s player is credited as being a “driving force” behind the team’s success. Sunday’s win has propelled the Eagles girls into the next round of sudden death finals. They face off against Wauchope at Port Stadium this Sunday at 11am. The start of the Port Macquarie Hastings Cricket competition is just two weeks away and players are in the thick of pre-season. Wauchope Cricket Club welcoming a new coach this season – which they hope will create a stronger culture at the club. 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 areaContinueEmergency services were called to Comboyne Road Mid North Coast Police District officers found a Subaru sedan had crashed into a tree before catching alight who is believed to be a woman aged in her 70s A woman has died after a single-vehicle crash and car fire at Byabarra.A crime scene was established by Mid North Coast Police District officers and an investigation into the cause of the crash has commenced A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner A fire-training camp has encouraged unity on the Mid North Coast, this week. Members of two Indigenous communities – banding forces with government agencies – to talk fire knowledge… and safety. 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 areaContinueIn her sentencing on Thursday October 24 Magistrate Georgina Darcy had advice for the 20-year-old Lansdowne woman was sentenced at Port Macquarie Local Court on charges relating to an alleged shooting at Trade Circuit Pictures by Emily Walker"You really need to reflect on the choices you are making in life," she said officers from Mid North Coast Police District were called to a property on Trade Circuit Wauchope following reports of shots being fired about 10.55pm on August 23 Three people were arrested in relation to the shootings a month after police released CCTV footage including Wares Co-offenders Brett Ryan and Damian Lee Hammond are still before the courts then 19-years-old at the time of the alleged shooting had been charge with a number of offences that have since been withdrawn when Wares attended Taree Police station to be interviewed as a suspect not under arrest she told police she had heard Hammond allegedly discharge a firearm at Wauchope she said that Hammond took the car and that she didn't leave with him Wares was then shown the image captured by an RMS camera on the Pacific Highway that showed her holding the gun whilst in a car after the shots had been fired the interview was suspended and Wares was arrested She later told police that she was not aware of the firearm in the vehicle initially and after the shots were allegedly fired Wares told police she did not want to hold it and the gun was passed on to someone else She told police she was shocked it had happened and didn't come forward as it would have put her in a "shit situation" In Wares sentencing on Thursday October 24 Magistrate Darcy noted the offenders age and said that jail was a last resort "You also need to be held accountable for your actions and be adequately punished for the offence," she said Magistrate Darcy noted the Wares' concealing information was a serious offence "There was a firearm that was left in the community for a period of time with someone who was willing to fire it without regard for public safety," she said Magistrate Darcy noted that Ware only had momentary possession of the firearm and that the offence was in the low range of seriousness Wares was convicted and sentenced to a community corrections order for a period of two years where she is subject to the supervisions of a community corrections officer and must not commit any offence She is also required to perform 150 hours of community service work Wares had previously been charged in 2023 with assault occasioning actual bodily harm in the company of others She had been given a conditional release order without conviction with the condition of being of good behaviour The Wauchope Blues have defended their top 4 position after defeating the Taree City Bulls in Group 3 Rugby League. The side came away with the win, and is now vying for a spot in the semi finals. including fatalities at Wauchope and South Kempsey 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 areaContinueOperation Anzac Day 2025 ran from Thursday during which double demerits were in force the number of lives lost during the period was two more than the same time last year Among the seven fatalities, a woman in her 70s died after her car hit a tree and caught fire near Wauchope, while a man aged in his 60s lost his life when his 4WD crashed and rolled in South Kempsey. the state's total road toll for the year has reached 117 Police have issued a plea to Mid North Coast drivers after a horror Anzac Day long weekend saw seven people killed in crashes across NSW fileThe deaths have prompted police to urge drivers to take greater responsibility for their behaviour on the roads after what authorities described as a devastating holiday period Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said this weekend is a tragic reminder that lives can irreversibly change in an instant on the road "We've seen a horror long weekend with seven lives lost on our roads These are seven people who are not coming home and families dealing with terrible grief," she said responsible choices every time you operate a motor vehicle "I want to thank our hardworking police [officers] who are out there 365 days a year doing everything they can to keep the roads safe risky and illegal behaviours because we want everyone to arrive to their destination safely." said police had seen too many fatal crashes these school holidays "This should not be acceptable in our community "Drivers have to understand that momentary inattention can have disastrous consequences we will continue to plead with drivers to travel safely obey the road rules and reflect on how their bad decisions can impact every single road user." Police said specialist areas supported the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command over the long weekend with increased patrols across regional and metropolitan areas They also carried out 5,232 roadside drug tests and detected 313 mobile phone offences and 186 restraint-related offences Authorities are pleading for Mid North Coast residents to remain vigilant with police continuing to target dangerous behaviours even after the conclusion of the double demerit period The club finished on top after rounds one and two in Yamba on 26-27 October. The rowers took home the overall club point score in the weekend double-header with competitors shining across five divisions. Crews were entered in the men’s and women’s U/19s, U/23s and Opens divisions, as well as the reserve men’s. Grace Monaghan, who shares the role of Boat Captain with Jack Sheaves, said several crew members doubled-up and rowed across two divisions. “This meant they competed in ten races both Saturday and Sunday,” she told the News Of The Area. “They did not complain once, which was amazing to see. “We also welcomed five new rowers, some experiencing their first carnival with us.” Grace said it was the first time the club has finished on top of a round. Normally that’s a spot reserved for Woolgoolga due to the size of the club and number of teams. This weekend’s competition will be at the Macksville-Scotts Head Surf Life Saving Club. Departing from its usual July schedule, the change to a spring show was met with approval by organisers and participants alike. Boasting an impressive display of vintage vehicles and machinery, the show featured everything from historic woodcutters to trucks, semi-trailers to prime movers, tractors to dozers, crawlers, motorbikes, and stationary engines. The event also featured displays by community groups in the showground pavilions. Other highlights included working steam engines, a post-ripping demonstration, tractor challenges and a show parade. At the heart of the event’s success is the Wauchope Yesteryear Truck and Machinery Club, which has played a central role in organising the annual show for many years. The club was originally known as the Timbertown Steam and Oil Engine Club Inc and founded in 1989 at Timbertown, Wauchope. Former club secretary Greg Cavanagh expressed his satisfaction with this year’s show. “This year’s event has been a huge success,” he said. “There has been an increase in the number of entrants which supports the club’s tradition of helping local organisations.” Picture supplied A 40 hectare (100 acre) grazing block on NSW's Mid North Coast with a building entitlement is on the market All articles from our website & appThe digital version of This Week's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxAll articles from the other agricultural news sites in your areaContinueSituated on Weismantle Street handy to Wauchope the property with strong historic ties to the settlement of the region comprises of gentle slopes running down to rich alluvial flats The pasture improved property was once part of the estate on the western side of King Creek owned by Robert Wauch Captain Wauch arrived in Australia with his family from England in 1836 The productive lifestyle property is said to be able to comfortably run 40 breeders Picture supplied Following his discharge from the military he bought more than 310ha (767 acres) of quality farmland Following his death in 1866 the Government Gazette published the deeds of the properties The productive lifestyle property is said to be able to comfortably run 40 breeders and is presented with steel cattle yards Both power and town water are also connected The property offers expansive views to the north and east Wauchope is about a five minute drive from Wauchope and about 20 minutes from Port Macquarie Expressions of interest close with Rural and Regional Realty on November 22 Our twice weekly wrap of the latest in rural property sales Our twice weekly wrap of the big news in the red meat sector Industry news from Australia's dairy sector The week's top stories curated by our news team Six pre-polling places will be open across the local government area Those requiring full wheelchair access may have to go to the CWA Hall in Port Macquarie The addresses of all six centres and their accessibility details are: – North Haven Community Hall at 595 Ocean Drive There is no designated accessible toilet at this location and the path of travel from the car park into the centre may require assistance The path of travel into the centre may require assistance – Port Macquarie CWA Hall at 11 Horton Street Port Macquarie – Port Macquarie Guide Hall at 54 Hollingworth Street There is no designated accessible parking spot and the path of travel from the car park into the centre may require assistance – The office of the Port Macquarie-Hastings Returning Officer at 216 Hastings River Drive There is no designated accessible toilet and the path of travel may require assistance – Wauchope CWA Hall at 49-51 High Street The path of travel may require assistance as the venue has a step and lip at the entrance all centres will be open at the following times – Monday to Wednesday: 8:30am – 5:30pm There is no absentee voting in local government elections Anyone living away from their registered council area has until Monday Completed ballot papers and postal vote certificates must then be received by the NSW Electoral Commission no later than 6pm Telephone voting may be available to those unable to visit a polling centre Electoral officers can also visit nursing and aged care homes if they are considered “Declared Facilities” A full list of election day polling stations will appear in next week’s paper In the meantime, further details can be found on the NSW Electoral Commission website at elections.nsw.gov.au/elections. It’s in the lead after the first two rounds of competition in Yamba on 26-27 October. The rowers took home the overall club point score in the weekend double-header with competitors shining across five divisions; men’s and women’s crews U/19s, U/23s and Opens, and the reserve men’s. “This meant they competed in ten races both Saturday and Sunday. Grace said it was the first time the club has finished on top. The next round of competition will be at the Macksville-Scotts Head Surf Life Saving Club on 9-10 November. 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 areaContinueADRA Soupervan has been operating for the past three years to provide free meals and connection for those in the community who are doing it tough ADRA Community Connect manager Troy Eggleton said other areas in Wauchope are not suitable because traffic safety issues have been raised Mr Eggleton said the Bain Park location is the most suitable place to host the community service as it's a flat area ADRA Community Connect manager Troy Eggleton with ADRA Soupervan volunteers Tiane Mison and Demi Magnus Picture supplied by ADRA.The location of the service is set to be discussed at the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council meeting on Thursday March 20 at Wauchope Country Club from 2pm According to the council agenda discussion paper staff said "Bain Park presents challenges due to its high-profile nature of the site planned activation for events and limited amenity access" Staff recommended Andrews Park as an alternative because it "has better surveillance 24-hour amenities and proximity to adjacent services" the discussion also outlines staff remain committed to working with ADRA "...Should council approve the use of Bain Park it is recommended that this initially be for a trial period of six months to allow staff to monitor its impacts and address any emerging issues as needed," the discussion paper states The ADRA Soupervan is set up off High Street which is opposite the Australia Post Office council advised the group they would no longer be able to set up at the Bain Park location The location has since undergone a Traffic Management Plan and Mr Eggleton said it has shown no issues The group launched a petition to gather community support Mr Eggleton thanked the Wauchope RSL Club which has been hosting the service in the interim Mr Eggleton said the service supports around 80 and 120 people each week It runs from Wednesdays from 5.30pm until 7pm One resident wrote about the difference the service had made to her life after she was given some laundry powder to wash her clothes Mr Eggleton said the service is crucial for people who are struggling with a high cost of living "We've got a lot of elderly people who come that are paying their bills but in order to pay their bills they've had to go without food," Mr Eggleton said Residents who access the service are given an evening meal offered food support and other items to help them The upgraded $2.3 million playground at Bain Park was officially opened in May, 2024. 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 Tigers will now meet either Old Bar Pirates or Macleay Valley in the minor semi next Saturday While the scoreline indicates a fairly comfortable win for the home side The match was in the balance when Wauchope winger Manning Lawrie scored his second try after out-jumping the Wingham players to field a kick from halfback Tristan Scott to make it 20-18 Owen Blair missed the conversion from the sideline Twelve minutes remained and the Blues appeared to be getting on top The Tigers finally sealed the win five minutes from fulltime when hard working second rower Blake Fraser took a pass close to the line to plunge over for just his second try in first grade from 90 plus appearances. Centre Ethan Ferguson kicked the goal and just before time he piloted over a penalty goal Wingham fullback Tim Bridge is taken by Wauchope defenders during the elimination semi-final at Wingham Picture Scott Calvin "We were a bit scrappy in the second half but I was super happy to get the win,'' injured Wingham captain-coach Mitch Collins said "At halftime we said the biggest thing was to hold the ball and not give back-to-back penalties "But in the first 10 minutes (of the second half) we made too many errors In the last 15 minutes we were back to our clinical selves rolling through the middle and that's what got there in the end.'' Collins said he won't be playing next weekend They're going better without me anyway,'' he said It was a typically tough forward-orientated semi-final with both sides keen to get into the grind Wingham dominated the opening stages and jumped to a 6-0 lead after fullback Tim Bridge pounced on a kick to score after seven minutes Centre Joel Kleindienst then crashed over from dummy half for the first of his two tries and at 12-0 the Tigers looked in control There was some conjecture as to whether the conversion was successful referee Landon Blissett ruled in Wingham's favour Wingham fumbled the re-start and Wauchope mounted pressure that resulted in veteran centre Sam Watts crossing The goal was astray and soon after the Tigers went further ahead when Kleindienst pushed his way over for his second try A try to Wauchope hooker Wycliff Tuiaki and a conversion to winger Reuben Trick reduced Wingham's lead to 12-10 at halftime The Tigers opened the second half in positive fashion when diminutive winger Braithe Tubnor managed to score out wide and even though the conversion was astray the Tigers had a 10 point cushion at 20-10 But the Blues fought back aided by some silly penalties conceded by the Tigers - one when they were in possession Lawrie scored twice for the Blues to get them within two points although they were having no success kicking conversions Wauchope captain-coach Beau White said it was a disappointing end to what otherwise was a fruitful season Last year the Blues finished second last and struggled for player numbers "It was a tough game - it always is down here against Wingham,'' White said But it was good to make the finals after where the club was last year White said he'll be back "bigger and better next year." "We going through a re-building stage and we're looking forward to next season,'' he said E Ferguson 4 goals) defeated Wauchope 18 (M Lawrie 2 It was a successful day for southern clubs in the minor grades Taree City accounted for Macleay Valley 26-16 in an entertaining reserve grade fixture while Old Bar overwhelmed Port City 40-4 in under 18s Forster-Tuncurry scored a comfortable 30-0 win over Wingham in the women's league tag Senior journalist dealing mainly with sports reports. Journalist for 40 years will have five new members following the next induction to be held at Club Old Bar on Friday 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 Hall of Fame was introduced in 2013 when Kevin Hardy (Taree United) Warren Kimberley (Wauchope) and Tony Paskins (Forster-Tuncurry) were inducted Hector Bolt (Forster-Tuncurry), John McKeough (Taree United/Wingham), Brian Wilson (Wingham), Tim Welsh (Wingham) and John Fisher (Port Macquarie) were last year's inductees. Taree Old Bar's Gary Warwick is tackled by Taree United's Ross Hallidays during the 1978 grand final Rod McDonald and John Kidd are also pictured.Taylor was rated by former Country Rugby League chairman and Wauchope life member Warren Kimberley as the best Wauchope player he'd seen Taylor's career started in the late 1950s and went through to the mid-1970s was a North Coast representative in the era when the division took in clubs from Gloucester to Tweed Heads while he also won premierships with Wauchope Eason was a premiership winning representative lock with the Hawks in the 1980s while Warwick was also a regular in Group Three and North Coast representative teams in the 1970s and 80s Warwick was a member of the Taree Old Bar sides that won a record five consecutive premierships from 1978-82 Lewis was the top halfback in Group Three before Wauchope made the move to Group Two in 1995 The Blues returned in 2004 and Lewis captain-coached Wauchope to the grand final in 2006 The Hall of Fame function will be held at Club Old Bar - Group Three's major sponsor - for the first time Senior journalist dealing mainly with sports reports « Back 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 areaContinueRitchies Stores Pty Ltd has offered to purchase from the Hastings Co-op Wauchope IGA + Liqour Sovereign Place IGA + Liquor and Port Macquarie IGA Hastings Co-op Chief Executive Officer Nick de Groot in Wauchope IGA one of the stores being sold to Ritchies Stores Pty Ltd Picture by Hastings Co-opAn announcement from the Hastings Co-op described the situation as an 'ideal outcome' for the Co-op and 'would restore the Co-op's financial sustainability protect members' interest and secure IGA staff jobs' Hastings Co-Op Chief Executive Officer Nick de Groot said member feedback had clearly indicated that resolving the issue of financial losses relating to Sovereign Place IGA + Liquor was the Co-op's number one priority "Ritchies has the quality supply chain to deliver a great range and value at the checkout and the capacity to really enhance the IGA stores," Mr de Groot said this proposal would stop the ongoing losses and secure the Co-op's future which is conditional on the sale of all four stores The two organisations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and are in the process of due diligence The proposed $15 million is subject to adjustments and the sale also needs 75 per cent of active shareholders to vote in favour of the transaction Voting material will be distributed to active shareholders from September 17 and must be returned by October 11 the sale will fall through and the Co-op directors would consider entering into voluntary administration The Co-Op has offered more information regarding the sale on its website A meeting for shareholders and co-op 100 members will allow them to hear from Mr de Groot and chair Gary Humphreys at the Wauchope RSL Club at 5.30pm on July 31 Ritchies Chief Executive Officer Fred Harrison said the two organisations may differ in size and scale they share common values in regard to member discounts community support and showcasing local producers "This is an amazing opportunity for us to expand on the Mid North Coast and deliver the Ritchies experience to the Hastings community," he said "We are committed to offering all existing staff employment contracts being part of the local community and continuing the customer service experience to which you're accustomed." Under the signed MoU between Ritchies and Hastings Co-op the independent supermarket chain will offer all 300 current casual and permanent IGA staff employment contracts with Ritchies All employees will retain their tenure of service retain their entitlement to existing long service leave and sick leave and will be paid all other accrued and approved leave entitlements by Hastings Co-op before commencing with Ritchies The Hastings Co-op has agreed to underwrite some of Sovereign Place IGA + Liquor leasing costs over 10 years but Ritchies will take on assignment of leases at Timbertown and Port Macquarie IGA Hastings Co-op will retain ownership of Wauchope IGA + Liquor's land and buildings which will be leased to Ritchies Hastings Co-op chair Gary Humphreys said that Ritchies offer to purchase the four supermarkets is a pivotal point in the Co-op's history the local community and the future of the Co-op," he said "It would put us in a strong financial position and pave the way for our 2024-27 Strategic Plan which is all about enhancing member benefits and forging new alliances." Financial sustainability has been an ongoing issue for the Hastings Co-op Earlier this year the organisation announced the closure of four stores including the beloved Wauchope Department Store The announcement came after the Co-op considered the sale of the Cedar Service Station and Wauchope IGA + Liquor Ritchies is Australia's largest independent supermarket chain and owns a number of IGAs across Australia, including the IGA store located in the Port Central Shopping Centre. The Carnival of the Pines festival was in full swing. Clarence Street was alive as Easter holiday makers joined locals in celebration. And in Wauchope special guests from the town’s sister city Canisteo arrived, an exchange visit for the Americans from New York State, to experience country life Australian Style proudly covered by NBN News in 1971. The Wauchope Giants defeated the Middle Rock Mariners 7-4 in their second round clash of the Hastings Valley Baseball league. The local association proud to be going from strength to strength – with a number of its players getting ready to represent the region in next month’s Country Championships. Featured image: Barunga West Council CEO Maree Wauchope accepting the 2024 Joy Baluch Award from LGA South Australia's Immediate Past President, Mayor Dean Johnson. Image credit: LGA South Australia.   The Local Government Association of South Australia (LGASA) has announced the winner of the 2024 Joy Baluch Award, recognising outstanding community leadership and efforts to get more women involved in local decision-making.   Barunga West Council CEO, Maree Wauchope, has received the award, which honours the late former Port Augusta Mayor, Joy Baluch, and acknowledges senior female leaders working in South Australian councils who demonstrate leadership and innovation, and support the role of women in local government.  As the council’s first female CEO, Ms Wauchope has overseen transformative projects including the completion of the $22 million infrastructure works at Fisherman Bay, as well as a $1.5 million redevelopment of Civic Square in Port Broughton.  She has also been a tireless advocate for the inclusion of more women in local government and community leadership roles, with her tenure as CEO coinciding with a shift in the makeup of her council’s workforce and elected body.  LGASA President, Mayor Heather Holmes-Ross, said that Ms Wauchope had been a driving force for positive change within the Barunga West community and was a worthy winner of the Joy Baluch Award.  “In her four years as CEO at Barunga West Council, Maree already has a long list of achievements to be proud of that have delivered real outcomes for her region,” Mayor Holmes-Ross said.  “Importantly, she has been a champion for women in local government, leading initiatives which have fostered more female involvement and representation within her own council, but also in her community.  “Councils function best when diverse views are considered and it’s critical we encourage more women to lend their voices to the conversation and create a space where they feel supported to get involved with local government.  “I congratulate Maree for her ongoing leadership and vision at Barunga West Council and for being our 2024 Joy Baluch Award recipient.”  Ms Wauchope said that she was honoured to receive the award and reflected on the importance of getting more women involved with local government.  “As a council, we’ve seen a positive shift in how women in our region are engaging and helping shape decision-making that determines our community’s future,” Ms Wauchope said.  “Whether it’s through participating in local projects, involvement in volunteer groups, or seeking positions on council, more and more women in the Barunga West area are getting active and having their say, which is so pleasing to see.  “We want women in our community to feel supported and heard, and I’m proud to have played a part and seen our council leading the way and creating an environment where this can occur.”  Disaster recovery support is now available to flood impacted communities in Bourke, Brewarrina and Walgett in northern New South Wales.... Australia’s 537 councils have called on the next Federal Government to ensure that the financial sustainability of local government is... With the federal election approaching fast and renewables still a critical issue for government, the Local Government Association of Queenland... © 2025 All Rights Reserved. All content published on this site is the property of Prime Creative Media. Unauthorised reproduction is prohibited © 2025 All Rights Reserved. All content published on this site is the property of Prime Creative Media. Unauthorised reproduction is prohibited 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 home team came into the second half leading against the Rats at 11-7 with Logan Eggleton scoring his first try of the season within minutes in the next match View +10 Photos"He's a hard working man so it was very well deserved," Wauchope Thunder first grade coach Tinus Wagner said Thunder novice Jack Digby also scored his first try of the season as well in the second half Wagner said his team didn't play a full 80 minutes of rugby "I think that bit of cold weather played a role but that allowed them to come back with a few late points." The visiting players knocked back against Wauchope but the home team was able to finish on top with 23 to 21 This season the team has continued to have close games against the Rats, who they beat in the historic 2023 grand final Wagner said it felt good to have a win on home grounds "It's always interesting this type of competition where you play each other three or even four times," he said "...the guys get to know each other and get to know each other's game plans and strengths and so on "I guess it's like a chess game- we just have to come up with new moves." Thunder has a bye this week but Wagner is positive for the weeks ahead as the season comes to a close "[Thunder] is gaining confidence," Wagner said "It looked like we are ramping up and getting to a peak towards the correct part of the season some other teams are still playing but all the indications are that we are into the semi finals." A former Wauchope local is making a name for himself in the world of lawn bowls Jack Lewis has been selected for the Australian development team ahead of the Oceania Tournament The charity walk is part of PanKind’s Remember September campaign to honour and remember the 71 Australians who die each week from pancreatic cancer The cause is a personal one for Ms Penfold who lost her mother to pancreatic cancer in 2013 with symptoms often coming far too late for effective treatment,” she said “If you are diagnosed with pancreatic cancer tomorrow there is only a 12.5 percent chance you will be alive in five years “My mum was part of the 87.5 percent with just a year between her diagnosis and her passing “The whole experience was traumatic and gut wrenching for Dad and I so by taking on this walking challenge to raise funds for more research into the disease I hope to help other families by saving lives through better treatments and even a cure.” Ms Penfold said the start and end points of her walk hold special meaning too “Mum lived in both Harrington and Port Macquarie at different times in her life and loved both places very much so it makes sense for me to cover the 71 kilometre challenge by walking between both,” Ms Penfold said “I will start my walk from Minnamurra Drive in Harrington on Friday 20 September and I hope to complete the walk in three stages finishing in River Park Road in Port Macquarie on Sunday it will be a very enjoyable physical challenge and at the same time raising much needed funds for live-saving pancreatic cancer research “I will be capturing my journey on my Instagram page @pennifold363.” To donate, visit www.rememberseptember.org.au/fundraisers/alisonpenfold/move-it-in-september-2024. Both teams came out fast and furious and ready to play, but it was the Redbacks who turned up the heat first, taking control early in the match. Led by the attacking skills of Ben Blanch and Hunter Wynd the Redbacks went into halftime with a 4-0 lead. Despite Wauchope coming out in the second half with increased intensity, the Redbacks proved too strong, with the visitors unable to reduce the scoreline deficit. The game finished 5-0 in favour of Camden Haven. Goal scorers for the Redbacks were Hayden Byrnes (two), Hunter Wynd, Ben Blanch and Beau Letherbarrow. Redbacks coach William Howard told News Of The Area his team “played well tonight” and the win was “well deserved”. “I thought Ben Blanch, our left midfielder, had a brilliant game tonight and I can’t wait to see more of him in our upcoming matches,” Howard told NOTA. Wauchope coach Daniel Jenkins expressed pride at how his team played despite the loss. “They didn’t give up or drop their heads regardless of the score,” he said. At the moment we are still learning how each of us play and how we work together as a team.” Jenkins reserved special praise for Dylan Fowler, who played out of his usual position, and for Caeley Purdy, who led the way for Wauchope with a tough defensive display. “Despite being the shortest player on the field she was by far the most impressive,” Jenkins said. Redbacks Vice President Lisa Murie said the side’s win was a great result for the club. “It was our first win of the season and will be a great confidence booster for the team,” she said. 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 areaContinueTroy James McCleery pleaded guilty to aggravated break and enter dwelling in company - steal and aggravated break and enter in company - intend to steal Court documents show about 3.45am on December 24 2023 McCleery and his alleged co-accused in the matter attended a tobacconist shop in Wauchope The two men exited a vehicle with "crowbars Picture by Ruby PascoeCCTV obtained from nearby businesses show the two men approaching the tobacconist The pair were captured on CCTV using the tools to force entry to the business they "steal a considerable amount" of tobacco The pair then left the store and drove away 2023 about 4.12am the pair re-attended the tobacconist CCTV depicts them walking along the footpath outside the shop before they once again break into the business with the "intention of stealing" a safe inside the store according to documents tendered to the court They left the store unsuccessful in their efforts 2023 the vehicle captured in CCTV at the time of the break and enter offences was stopped and searched by police Officers located "multiple pouches" of tobacco that were later confirmed to have been stolen during the break and enter on December 24 2024 police attended a Cooperabung address in relation to executing a search warrant Police stopped McCleery after he attempted to flee and arrested him The 47-year-old was taken to Port Macquarie Police Station and charged with the break and enter offences McCleery appeared via AVL from custody before Magistrate Georgina Darcy in Port Macquarie Local Court for sentencing on June 13 Magistrate Darcy described the offences as "serious" and a sentence of imprisonment was "required" "I don't know if you're brazen or simply stupid or both You went back to the same property where CCTV captured the entire incident Magistrate Darcy said McCleery "needs to be held accountable" for his actions "There was a degree of planning on both occasions You took all of the equipment you would need to break-in," she said McCleery was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment for the two break and enter offences His sentence has been backdated to January 3 and he will be eligible for release on October 2 The co-accused's case remains before the courts The event, which drew visitors from across the region, proved to be a resounding success with lines of eager ticket holders stretching up the street, all waiting to pass through the gates. The festivities kicked off with pre-show entertainment from singer Teak Fairfull, setting a lively tone for the evening. Families enjoyed a variety of attractions, including jumping castles for kids and an array of food and drink options from food trucks and the event’s licensed bar, providing something for everyone. Local Camden Haven resident Jake Thrash, who attended the event with his family and friends, shared his enthusiasm with News Of The Area. “We saw the event advertised on Facebook and thought it would be a great night out with the kids and it didn’t disappoint,” Jake said. As the feature event was due to begin, attendees stood proudly for the National Anthem, marking the official start of the show. The crowd’s anticipation was palpable as the daredevil motocross riders were introduced. These skilled performers thrilled the audience with spectacular jumps, earning cheers and applause with each daring leap. The crowd roared in support of the courageous riders, each one risking it all in the ring. The bulls themselves were a sight to behold, with one particularly cheeky bull flicking sand into the crowd, much to their delight. Overall, the feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, solidifying the Bull Throttle show as a highlight on the local event calendar. A representative from the Bull Throttle team told News Of The Area, “The event was a huge success, and we had all round positive feedback from the community. “Based on the overwhelming response we will be making plans to come back next year.” The combination of high-octane entertainment, family-friendly activities, and a welcoming atmosphere ensured that everyone had a night to remember. The Wauchope Riverside Bicentenary Sculptural Trail, located at Rocks Ferry Reserve was severely impacted in the March 2021 flood events, destroying some of the project sites. Yapang Bila Yapun.yapun is the Birpai name given to the new Wauchope Bicentenary Riverside Sculptural Trail, set on the Hastings River, winding its way along Rocks Ferry Road and Reserve. The project was funded with a $196,140 grant from the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund. The Trail encompasses four art installations that were inspired by cultural, environmental and historical aspects of the Wauchope region. The Trail presents a unique opportunity to tell community stories in a creative, respectful manner, resulting in a legacy to the Wauchope community.  We have received an overwhelming number of responses from local and interstate artists through a formal Expression of Interest (EOI) process. A panel of local community representatives reviewed the EOI submissions against pre-determined selection criteria, through which the artwork for each project site was selected. This project, like much of the region, was severely affected by the flood events of March 2021. Two of the projects installations were destroyed, information on these works are referenced below. Marine Intersection - bridge pylons mural by Manning Daly Art Meeting at the River - sculpture installation by Antone Bruinsma The Fishing Tale - fishing table and light pole by Francessca O’Donnell, assisted by Gaye White & Nick Juric This work was lost in the flood event. The Waymarker - sculpture installation by John Van Der Kolk Zoetrope - sculpture installation by Stephen Gale Dhoongong - sculpture under construction. Designed by Jo Davidson. This work was lost in the floods. A Reference Group of local stakeholders informed project delivery and included representatives of the: We acknowledge the artist and project teams whose art was destroyed in the floods and the many hours of work to deliver such a wonderful project. We acknowledge the Birpai people, the traditional owners of the land in which we work and live, and pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We extend our respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who choose to call Port Macquarie Hastings home. Pictures by Mardi BorgThe Wauchope Blues have celebrated Sam Watts' 150th game in style defeating the Macleay Valley Mustangs 30-18 in front of a home crowd on May 18 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 Blues took control early the Mustangs fought back with tries from Mal Webster with a try from captain-coach Beau White sealing their victory Other notable contributors for Wauchope included Owen Blair White said it was a "scrappy game" at home "I think we led pretty well at the start of the game and we probably should've gone on with it." White also commended Watts' game on the weekend he's a top bloke and a really good clubman as well." White said he was impressed with how his team came back from behind in the dying minutes of the game and went back to our structure which got us the necessary points to win." Macleay Valley Mustangs coach Beau Champion said the game "could've gone either way" "I've got to give Wauchope a lot of credit; I think they played really well," he said but we unfortunately couldn't close it out." Champion said the loss provided a good "learning experience" "There's a lot of positives we can take out of that game moving forward," he said "I really liked our intent and how we attacked the game and I think we gave ourselves enough opportunities to score." "I left the game feeling proud of their effort and their performance we were right there and couldn't ice the game That's something we need to fix moving forward." Champion said he remained optimistic about the team's future this season as he looks ahead to their next clash against Taree City at Taree "I'm confident that we can beat any team if we stick to our processes," he said "They're going to be desperate to win like us but we need to go there and put in a really good performance." Wauchope will now play the in-form Wingham Tigers at Wingham this weekend League Tag: Wauchope Blues 60 - Macleay Valley Mustangs 0 Under 18's: Macleay Valley Mustangs 18 - Wauchope Blues 6 Women's Tackle: Wauchope Blues 44 - Macleay Valley Mustangs 6 Reserve Grade: Wauchope Blues 22 - Macleay Valley Mustangs 6 All articles from our websiteThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueBut the opportunity to establish and run his own 'micro dairy' under the guidance of his father proved to be a winning combination for this young farming entrepreneur So in January 2023 he began Hastings Riverlands ,a business that produces organic pure Jersey milk and yogurt on a property at Huntingdon near Wauchope Jimmy is now a fifth generation dairyfarmer and proud of his family's commitment not only to the industry but also as leaders and innovators in the field of organics and regenerative farming practices Today he is milking his 30 Jersey cows in a walk-through-dairy that is also home to his milk processing and distribution centre where Jimmy's Milk and Jimmy's Yogurt starts its life before heading off to farmers markets and retailers including Sydney's Feather and Bone as well as an online outlet He is renting his 90 acre Hasting River property from his father along with the Jersey milking herd especially when it comes to the organics on the farm He has been a leader in this field so its great I can tap into his knowledge," he said Chris is best known for his farm Oxhill Organics His innovative farming practices have been recognised in particular his production and use of compost on the farm "Dad bought the property where I work a number of years ago with a plan to produce and market his own organic milk as currently he supplies Norco with all his production," said Jimmy "But he never got around to doing that project so when I finished school he suggested I could take it on and start my own business - which I did and it has been great to see it grow and prove popular with our customers to processing then distribution and marketing has been a challenge but well worthwhile Hearing back from customers about how good our products taste is what keeps you going." Jimmy described his milk as being minimally processed with the aim to produce the best tasting milk and yogurt We pasteurise the milk but we do not homogenise it and because the cows are grazed and managed using organic principles the end product has the best taste "Our business is all about the taste and marketing a single herd product," he said Jimmy's Yogurt is 'pot-set' for six to eight hours and does not require any additives and according to the maker comes out 'really good' The size of the business allows Jimmy time to work on each area which has its own attractions for a young farmer "You get to meet a variety of people when you are selling direct which you wouldn't if you sell all your milk to a processor," he said "It is extra rewarding as a farmer to have control of the product from the farm to the customer and in my case the processing - it works for me and I think Dad is happy to see his life's work in organics finally delivering that home brand product." One other passion for Jimmy is his Jersey cattle which he considers to be the best breed for his enterprise "They are efficient milk producers and they produce the best milk everyday Jerseys absolutely suit this business," he said From cattle to coal. Once a specialist agriculture writer today its about community, in particular, the Upper Hunter. I have lived and worked in the region for more than 30 years. Land use issues and the future direction of our region. But you cannot take ag out of the picture - our food and how we grow it is the basis of all life. Covering the Hunter and Mid North Coast rural issues is now part of my role with ACM. Sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date We care about the protection of your data. Read our 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 areaContinueMacleay Valley opened the scoring and took a narrow lead in the first half before the Blues levelled the game at 4-all at halftime The Mustangs powered through in the second half scoring five tries in total thanks to Viliame Tobesewa Wauchope crossed the line three times with tries from Manning Lawrie Shane Davis-Caldwell three of his team's tries while Wauchope managed one successful conversion by Sam Watts View +20 PhotosMacleay Valley Mustangs defeat Wauchope Blues Pictures by Penny Tamblyn Mustangs coach Beau Champion said he was happy with his team's ability to "find a way to win"after they made it hard for themselves with their low completion rate "I think we may have completed at 50 per cent if we're lucky "If you're not competing at at least 75 per cent most teams wouldn't be able to find a way to win from there as fatigue starts to set in because of the amount of defending you have to do "It's good that we're finding different ways to win games; that will keep us in good form for the back end of the year and give us an opportunity to address a few things we need to tidy up this week." "What I was very proud of was [that,] during the amount of defence and tackling that we had to do at our end of the field The Mustangs now sit in second place on the Group Three Rugby League ladder Champion said the team's resilience has been clear in the second half of the season "If we had turned over that much ball when we played Wauchope earlier in the year I don't think we could have kept them to just 14 points," he said "It shows that we're growing as a team and beginning to come out on top in tough clashes." The Mustangs will enjoy the bye this weekend before they face Taree City and the current ladder-leaders Port Macquarie Sharks in successive weeks The upgrade to Wauchope Station has been delivered as part of the Transport Access Program a NSW Government initiative to provide a better experience for public transport customers by delivering accessible secure and integrated transport infrastructure across the state The Wauchope Station Upgrade is now complete Customers are able to use the station's new and improved accessibility features Please visit the Wauchope Station webpage for information on station facilities and transport services *Estimated project completion times are subject to change.  Wauchope Station Upgrade - Notification - February 2020  (PDF, 6.42 MB) Transport for NSW recognise and celebrate the diversity of Aboriginal peoples and their ongoing cultures and care of Country. We pay respect to traditional custodians and Elders past and present. Stage one of the new Bain Park has officially been unveiled, part of plans to revitalise Wauchope’s town centre. Kids and locals were invited to try out the new playground… after having a hand in its design. 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 general consensus of opinion going into the season was there were four top five certainties Macleay Valley and Wingham while the other four would battle it out for the remaining spot in the playoffs In the space of a fortnight Wauchope has beaten Macleay and Wingham and looks capable of going deep in the finals series this year The Blues walloped a lethargic Wingham side 38-10 with fullback Owen Blair running in three brilliant tries Blair is the best broken field runner in Group Three and the Tigers struggled to contain him all game kicked over the fullback to regather at pace and planted the ball over the tryline The conversion by veteran centre Sam Watts increased the lead to 30-10 and ended whatever faint hope the Tigers had of rescuing the game Wauchope outclassed Wingham Tigers in the Group Three Rugby League clash.The only blot on the day for the Blues was an injury to captain-coach Beau White at the midpoint of the second half He left the field and didn't return but said later it was not a great concern Wingham forward Nathan Campbell was placed on report following the incident with prop Jacob McGrath outstanding against the physical Wingham pack Half Tristan Scott menaced the Wingham defence all game either with his kicking or pinpoint passes that put supports into space Not only did he score three tries but he also landed a conversion from the sideline "It was a good all-round effort and I'm really impressed with the team today,'' White said at fulltime He described Blair as 'unreal - he gives us that bit of spark.'' White was always confident the Blues would be a competitive outfit this year "We have a heap of young fellas and they're all showing up for each other,'' he said Wingham captain-coach Mitch Collins agreed the Tigers were rusty after a two week break caused by wet weather "When you give away as many penalties as we did and turn over so much ball you're not going to win many games,'' Collins said "In the first two games our line speed and effort areas were unreal But we were slow getting out of the blocks today and we gave away multiple errors and back-to-back penalties and they capitalised,'' he said The Tigers had second rower Kyran Bubb sent off midway through the second half and also have Campbell - who was their best - on report On a positive note Collins said the club is close to signing an outside back "We should know by early next week,'' he said Wingham started well and led 6-0 after Bubb was first two a kick from five-eighth Nash Atkins inside two minutes Fletcher Lewis converted to put Wingham up by six That was one of the few times the Tigers made it into Wauchope territory in the first half Blair gave winger Manning Lawrie room out wide and he crossed for an unconverted try Blair then fielded a Wingham kick over his line on the full took the tap and raced into space to score a quick thinking try regathered and sent second rower Josh Caruana over and the Blues were in control A try to Scott that was converted by Sam Watts made it 20-6 at the break The Blues were in via a try to centre Nathan Carroll soon after the resumption and even though Atkins scored for Wingham the Tigers never looked likely to haul the Blues in Blair scored his third just before fulltime and winger Rueben Trick celebrated his 100th first grade game for the club by kicking the conversion R Trick goals) defeated Wingham 10 (K Bubb Port Macquarie thrashed Port City 36-0 in the other Group Three game played today Pictures by Mardi BorgIn a heated Group 3 Rugby League clash the Wauchope Blues overpowered Port City Breakers to win 40-12 at Port Regional Stadium on Saturday 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 areaContinueDespite a promising start Port City faced a challenging second half when one of their players was sent off early on two players from each team were sent to the bin with Nick Smith crossing the line at the 30th minute and Jesse Douglas shortly after Smith also converted both tries successfully Wauchope's relentless attack proved too much to handle Wauchope's scoring spree began with a try by Reuben Trick in the opening minutes of the game followed by Owen Blair's double in the 21st and 23rd minutes Mathew Bird added to the lead with a try just before halftime Beau White and Blair scored back-to-back tries in the 63rd and 64th minutes and Sam Watts sealed the victory with a try shortly after Wauchope's conversion efforts saw Watts successfully converting three of their seven tries and Blair adding another conversion in the 78th minute Blair also kicked two penalty goals in the closing minutes of the game Port City Breakers coach Tim Donovan said he was disappointed with the outcome Donovan pointed out the game's early promise but acknowledged the pivotal moment with the send-off "I thought we started okay; we tried to weather the storm as we knew they would come out firing which we need to review on the video to find out why the player was sent off so we will just leave that up to the Group to investigate." Donovan said the team will be looking to regroup and plan for their next game against Taree City "All we can do as a playing group is re-group wait for the outcome from the judiciary in regards to the player being sent off and then come up with a plan for this week's game." 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 areaContinueFrom Friday November 30 the new address will be Shop 6 at 243 High Street in the Timbertown shopping centre.  Opening hours will be 9am to 4pm The new centre will replace the existing Wauchope Motor Registry at the corner of Young Street and Hastings Street.  It will close at 4pm on Thursday November 29 In the meantime, you can complete many transactions online at www.service.nsw.gov.au or via the Service NSW app The move in Wauchope is part of Service NSW’s $20 million expansion of the network into rural and regional areas and when open will provide access to more than 1000 government transactions The Motor Registry will close on Thursday November 29 at 4pm and the new service centre will open the next day.Service NSW is a one stop shop for vital services The final stages of the building and technical fit-out are under way And a Service NSW spokesman said the community will be kept informed about the opening of the Wauchope Service Centre The spokesperson declined to comment on whether or not all the existing staff in Wauchope will be kept on Worked as a journalist and assistant producer for BBC news and current affairs in the UK, Ulster Television, Q Radio and the Irish News in Northern Ireland. Moved to Australia and joined Fairfax Media in 2016. Won a Rotary Paul Harris Fellowship award in 2018 for reporting the Pappinbarra bushfires and the subsequent Rotary appeal which raised $30,000.