THE State Government has launched a “Name and Shame” list of real estate agents, property managers and strata managing agents who have faced enforcement action. Available through the NSW Fair Trading website, it allows homeowners, buyers and renters to check if an agent has been fined, suspended or had their licence cancelled. It also includes […]
$4.2m to improve shark detection
NEW research, real-time tracking and expanded drone surveillance lead a $4.2 million NSW Government initiative to keep people safer in the water this summer. The investment follows an unprecedented number of attacks in recent weeks and the need for better education and community messaging on shark behaviour – particularly before and after weather events. Surf […]
Crews have driven the final pile to complete foundation works for 11 new bridges between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace. Photos: TfNSW.
Major milestone reached with final bridge pilings installed on M1 extension
Crews have driven the final pile to complete foundation works for 11 new bridges between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace. Photos: TfNSW. Crews have driven the final pile to complete foundation works for 11 new bridges between Black Hill and Raymond Terrace. Photos: TfNSW. CREWS working on the M1 Pacific Motorway extension to Raymond Terrace […]
From paddock to pantry: the local producers powering Dungog Wholefood Co-op
Baker Simon Brownbridge. Dave and Robanne Morris with some of their garlic crop. Maxwell Wood with eggs from his rescued hens. DUNGOG Wholefood Co-op has long championed the idea that good food starts with strong local relationships, and nowhere is that more evident than in the diverse producers who supply its shelves. A cornerstone producer […]
Even if parked in the shade with the windows partially down, dogs can die in a car in less than six minutes. Photo: GabesDotPhotos/Pexels.
Government flags tougher penalties for animal cruelty including jail time for leaving dogs in hot cars
DOG owners tempted to leave their pet in the car when they run to the shops, will soon risk tougher penalties. The State Government is delivering on its election promise to review the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTAA), flagging heavier fines and longer jail sentences. Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, […]
Still no fix for dangerous Bucketts Way intersection
THERE is still no relief in sight for long-suffering motorists trying to turn right from Bucketts Way onto the Pacific Highway during busy periods. On 8 January 2025, News Of The Area reported that “those travelling south from Gloucester will, for the foreseeable future at least, continue experiencing the often-long delays, and significant risks associated […]
Rescue, recovery and hope: Inside Sea Shelter’s fight to save Port Stephens’ green sea turtles
Spearow on the day of her rescue in Tanilba Bay, September 2025. Photo: Sea Shelter. Spearow, in December 2025 on the road to a healthy recovery and her subsequent release. Photo: Sea Shelter. BEHIND the walls of Irukandji Shark and Ray Centre, the team at Sea Shelter are quietly continuing to write the rescue tales […]
Hundreds of Scouts set up camp at Dungog Showground
DUNGOG Showground is hosting the Hunter and Coastal Regional Scout Corroboree camp this week. More than 250 Scouts are attending the event, representing the Hunter and Coastal Region as well as Sydney, the Blue Mountains and other areas of NSW. In addition, around 100 Scout leaders will be busy organising and keeping an eye on […]
Push for accessibility improvements at Paterson Station
Photos of the station from every angle highlight the lack of accessibility. Photos of the station from every angle highlight the lack of accessibility. Photos of the station from every angle highlight the lack of accessibility. Photos of the station from every angle highlight the lack of accessibility. Photos of the station from every angle […]
CEO Doug Taylor talked to school students ahead of the launch of the Smith Family appeal. Photo: The Smith Family.
The Smith Family’s 2026 Back to School Appeal launched
AS families across the Hunter prepare for the return to school, new research has revealed the growing pressure many households face simply trying to meet the basic costs of education. The latest Pulse Survey of families supported by The Smith Family shows that more than four out of five parents and carers are worried about […]
