July 15, 2026
STARGAZING: Space travel no longer the stuff of Star Trek
Opinion

STARGAZING: Space travel no longer the stuff of Star Trek

THE dream of space travel, once confined to the realms of science fiction, is rapidly becoming a tangible reality. In 2025, the space tourism industry is experiencing unprecedented growth, with companies like Blue Origin leading the charge. The recent Katy Perry all-girl mission has not only captivated the public’s imagination but also paved the way […]

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‘On The Couch’ With Jasminda:
Jasminda's Advice

‘On The Couch’ With Jasminda:

DEAR Jasminda, I am a Doctor of Philosophy. When my husband and I recently travelled interstate, he put my title down as Doctor for our booking. I was unaware of this until the boarding staff greeted me as Doctor Ronstad, wishing me a good flight and thanking me for being on board. I was also […]

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Mobile Service NSW Centres hit the road The new fleet of Service NSW vehicles offers “branch in a box” technology. Photo: Supplied by Service NSW.
Government, Regional

Mobile Service NSW Centres hit the road

REGIONAL and remote communities across NSW are set to benefit from a major boost in access to government services, with new Service NSW Mobile Service Centres hitting the road this month. Four tough new four-wheel-drive single-cab utes will replace the existing Mobile Service Centres, which have reached their end of life after covering more than […]

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LETTER: Most farmers support renewable energy
Letter to the Editor

LETTER: Most farmers support renewable energy

DEAR News Of The Area, The media narrative suggesting regional people oppose renewable energy projects when the data unarguably shows the opposite is now the subject of a published academic paper (“Growing discontent on data centres as farmers fear renewable rollout repeat, The Land, 7/6). Poll after poll after poll, from Porter Novelli, 89 Degrees […]

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Dungog Under 12s netball finish state titles as runners-up Dungog Under 12s.
Sport Results

Dungog Under 12s netball finish state titles as runners-up

Dungog Under 12s. Dungog Under 12s. DUNGOG Netball Association’s Under 12 representative team has capped off an exceptional 2026 season with a second-place finish at the Netball NSW Junior State Titles in Camden, held from 4–6 July.  The talented young side delivered an incredible performance across the three-day tournament, finishing equal on competition points at […]

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Penfold seeks community feedback on gambling advertising
Dungog Shire

Penfold seeks community feedback on gambling advertising

FEDERAL Member for Lyne Alison Penfold is calling on local Lyne residents to have their say on proposed gambling advertising reforms with legislation now before the Federal Parliament. “Many Australians enjoy a punt on the races, a bet on the footy or a flutter with friends. For most people, gambling is a form of entertainment […]

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Dungog Shire Council opens Community Small Grants Program applications
Dungog Shire

Dungog Shire Council opens Community Small Grants Program applications

COMMUNITY groups, sporting clubs and local organisations are being encouraged to apply for funding through Dungog Shire Council’s Community Small Grants Program. The program offers grants of up to $2,500 to support projects, events and initiatives that strengthen the local community. Deputy Mayor Liam Ley said the funding was available to help community organisations turn […]

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