May 9, 2025
‘On the couch’ with Jasminda
Jasminda's Advice

‘On the couch’ with Jasminda

DEAR Jasminda, I AM someone who likes a firm handshake but some people in my social circle, and even at work seem to think it is acceptable to give me a hug or even a kiss. How do I make my position clear without causing offence? Alena P Dear Alena, There is nothing offensive about […]

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NRAR to step up water usage compliance check ups NRAR officers inspect a pump.
Regional

NRAR to step up water usage compliance check ups

THE Natural Resources Access Regulator (NRAR) will step up water compliance checks along regulated sections of the Hunter River catchment during May to improve water law compliance. NRAR will visit properties across the Hunter region in the coming weeks to speak with water licence holders about their water take conditions. The visits follow a review […]

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The Big Screen
Film

The Big Screen

LAST Breath is really going to test the limits for those of you who suffer from claustrophobia, but this survival thriller, based on a true story, is well worth checking out. A fictional retelling of the same story that director Alex Parkinson had already covered in his 2019 documentary of the same name, the story […]

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Is it down? Strict rules for telcos that suffer outages Telcos will need to provide users with more info about outages under stricter new rules. Photo: Jack Atley/AAP
Regional

Is it down? Strict rules for telcos that suffer outages

CONSUMERS must be told why their phone or internet service has been disconnected during major outages and when they can expect it to return under stricter telecommunication rules. Providers will also have to improve the way they deal with triple-zero outages under the regulations and issue detailed plans to prevent recurrences. The Australian Communications and […]

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Stinker’s History: Little road, big problems Marsh Road was nothing more than a bush track.
Fishing

Stinker’s History: Little road, big problems

MARSH Road has displayed a real character over the years that makes it unique. I chose to write about the road in my latest book because, in my opinion, it has a personality all of its own. Running through the Port Stephens village of Bobs Farm, there are few roads which have gained as well-earned […]

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Have your say on the future of Salamander Bay Town Centre Council is creating a Place Plan for Salamander Bay.
Community

Have your say on the future of Salamander Bay Town Centre

PORT Stephens Council is inviting the community to help shape the future of Salamander Bay Town Centre. Port Stephens Mayor Leah Anderson described Salamander Bay Town Centre as one of the key commercial and community hubs in Port Stephens. “Salamander Bay has grown over time without a clear plan – but that’s changing,” Mayor Anderson […]

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Overseas rates decision to dominate domestic chatter Australian investors will be closely eyeing the US Federal Reserve's moves on interest rates. Photo: Steven Saphore/AAP PHOTOS.
National

Overseas rates decision to dominate domestic chatter

WHEN the United States speaks, Australian investors listen. And they will be doing so very closely as the much-anticipated US rates decision is handed down on Thursday. Federal Reserve chair Jerome Powell has previously indicated there will be no changes to the cash rate in May, while the bank waits for more information on the […]

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In the can: school student’s goal to raise $10k for Vanuatu school
Community

In the can: school student’s goal to raise $10k for Vanuatu school

DURING COVID-19, nine-year-old Georgia Jontulovic set up a driveway stall selling handmade bookmarks and jewellery to raise money for a cause she felt was important. It was the Life Changer Christian College in Vanuatu, a school that Georgia had visited on a school excursion. The school was built by Port Stephens residents Steve and Helen […]

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Twelve new police officers hit the ground across the Hunter
Police

Twelve new police officers hit the ground across the Hunter

TWELVE new Probationary Constables are beginning work in the Hunter region, allocated to Hunter Valley, Manning-Great Lakes, Mid North Coast and Port Stephens-Hunter Police Districts. NSW Police Force’s Class 365 officially attested at the Goulburn Police Academy on Friday, 2 May. The new recruits have now commenced duties at their new home stations across the […]

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