THE emotional, economic and environmental impact of wild dogs is in the spotlight as the National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) calls for a Government commitment to fund the National Wild Dog action plan and the role of National Wild Dog management coordinator. The Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Darren Chester, is championing the cause […]
Prepare now for hotter, drier weather ahead
PREPARATIONS are ramping up across NSW as the bushfire season approaches, with a strong focus on protecting local homes, properties and communities. Senior leaders from emergency services, land managers and community groups are meeting this week at the NSW Hazard Reduction Roundtable to fine-tune plans before the official danger period begins for most of the […]
Man charged over alleged $11k Port Stephens shoplifting spree
A MAN has been charged over numerous alleged shoplifting incidents in the Port Stephens area. Last month, officers attached to Port Stephens-Hunter Police District began an investigation into a number of reported shoplifting incidents that affected retailers in the Salamander and Nelson Bay areas. Around 8;30pm on Saturday, 8 August 2026, police arrested a 27-year-old […]
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 […]
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 […]
Dungog Shire Council seeks feedback on Draft Business Improvement Strategy
RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on Dungog Shire Council’s Draft Business Improvement Strategy, which outlines a roadmap for how Council intends to improve its operations over the next decade. The draft strategy is currently on public exhibition and will remain open for community feedback until 17 July. Deputy Mayor Liam Ley said […]
NSW Government introduces legislation for drivers using prescribed medicinal cannabis
THE NSW Government has introduced legislation aimed at creating a fairer approach for drivers who legally use prescribed medicinal cannabis while maintaining strong road safety protections. The proposed Road Transport Amendment (Medical Cannabis and Driving Offences) Bill 2026 would allow eligible medicinal cannabis patients to avoid automatic penalties for the presence of THC in their […]
Dungog Shire Council seeks feedback on Draft Business Improvement Strategy
RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on Dungog Shire Council’s Draft Business Improvement Strategy, which outlines a roadmap for how Council intends to improve its operations over the next decade. The draft strategy is currently on public exhibition and will remain open for community feedback until 17 July. Deputy Mayor Liam Ley said […]
Minns Government to help ease cost of living pressures for patients in regional, rural, and remote areas with $71.7 million additional support
THE Minns Labor Government has committed an additional $71.7 million in the 2026-27 NSW Budget to help regional, rural and remote patients access specialist healthcare through the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS). The funding boost aims to ease cost-of-living pressures for patients and families who must travel long distances for medical treatment […]
Men’s Health Week now on
IT’S Men’s Health Week and this year Australian men are being reminded that there are ‘101 Reasons to See Your GP’ and urges men to just get on with it. The event’s website, https://www.menshealthweek.com.au/, looks crafted with straightforward, no-drama sensibilities; a brown background, beige writing, and no-nonsense text. “There are 101 reasons to see your […]
