AUSTRALIA loses more than $21 billion in productivity every year due to absenteeism but providing workers with one day of reproductive leave a month would significantly mitigate this economic cost. A report into the costs and benefits of implementing a universal reproductive health leave entitlement has found the policy would improve mental health and workforce […]

AFTER 40 years away, Jenny Akers has come full circle, trading the bustle of Sydney for the soul of Dungog – and she’s never looked back. Born at Newcastle’s Mater Hospital and schooled at Lochinvar, Jenny always dreamed of returning to the region. But it wasn’t until her retirement in 2018 that she made the […]

FORMER state election candidate Keys Manley will contest the 2025 federal election for the Legalise Cannabis Party in the seat of Lyne. Mr Manley, who took about nine percent of the Myall Lakes vote in the 2023 NSW election, told NOTA he is a “passionate advocate for cannabis legalisation”. Advertise with News of The Area […]

THE 2025 Stroud Show is set to bring a whirlwind of family fun to the region from 25-27 April. This three-day event celebrates country life, showcasing agriculture, horse and split post competitions, and a variety of eccentric contests, along with products and produce from the Stroud Valley and beyond. Advertise with News of The Area […]

THE community has an opportunity to celebrate the incredible women who volunteer their time to make a difference, by nominating them for the 2025 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll. The Honour Roll, an initiative by the NSW Government, highlights the vital contributions of female volunteers across rural, regional and remote New South Wales. Since its inception […]

BREAKING the cycle of domestic and family violence requires further commitment to early intervention and programs that support men, anti-violence advocates say. Men’s behaviour change programs have been used in Australia to work with perpetrators of domestic and family violence to reduce or prevent abuse towards a partner or family member. Advertise with News of […]