THE National Party’s Alison Penfold will be the next Federal Member for Lyne, succeeding the long-serving Dr David Gillespie. As of Monday morning, Ms Penfold held 60.55 percent of the Two candidate preferred count over Labor’s Digby Wilson (39.45 percent) after Saturday’s federal election. Ms Penfold took 37.20 percent of first preference votes, with Mr […]
Virtual Reality training puts Port Stephens carers in the shoes of dementia patients
DEMENTIA Australia has visited Harbourside Port Stephens to provide care staff with simulation training using virtual reality (VR). By using this cutting-edge technology along with traditional interactive methods, staff gained deep insights and practical knowledge in a balanced and dynamic learning environment. The first immersive workshop, “Enabling EDIE”, allowed participants to see the world through […]
Tomaree Peninsula students can now apply for tertiary scholarships
APPLICATIONS are now open for the Rotary Club of Nelson Bay’s Centenary Scholarship, which assists tertiary students from the Tomaree Peninsula. This scholarship provides financial support to students commencing or completing existing studies. “This could include certificate, diploma or degree courses including postgraduate study or any additional courses which will enhance their qualifications in their […]

Photo Album: Medowie Dawn Service
Bridgett Sainsbury and Eleanor Green from Irrawang High School at the Medowie Dawn Service. Photo: Amanda Green. The Catafalque Party at the Medowie Dawn Service. Photo: Amanda Green. Declan Felsch was a member of the Catafalque Party. Photo: Amanda Green. Luke Turner stands in solemn reflection as a member of the Catafalque Party. Photo: Amanda […]
Photo Album: Anzac Day in Raymond Terrace
Irrawang High School captain Daniel Cobby and vice captain Jack Skaines. Photo: Amanda Green. Grahamstown Public School students in quiet contemplation. Photo: Amanda Green. The Salvation Army Hope Community Choir in full voice. Photo: Amanda Green. The community lined the streets for the procession. Photo: Amanda Green. The Irrawang High School Drum Corps. Photo: Amanda […]

Raymond Terrace Lions Club’s Easter fundraiser a success
RAYMOND Terrace Lions Club continues to make an impact in the local community. The Club’s Easter fundraiser proved a huge success, fetching over $5500 to assist with community projects. These include the placing of a shade cover over the children’s play equipment at Riverside Park. Raymond Terrace Lions Membership Chair Annette Clark, thanked the local […]
Paterson hopefuls give final pitches to NOTA readers
AUSTRALIANS head to the polls on Saturday to determine the political direction of the region and nation. A spirited election campaign is coming to an end locally, where 10 hopefuls have entered the race to become the Paterson electorate’s next Federal representative. With days to go until voting closes, News Of The Area offered each […]
Newcastle Airport expansion to boost Sail Port Stephens regatta
STATE Government, Council and sailing enthusiasts are predicting the expansion of Newcastle Airport will further propel the Sail Port Stephens regatta in future years. The Sail Port Stephens Performance Series took place from 25-27 April, with thousands of spectators flocking to catch the regatta in action. The Sail Port Stephens Bay Series follows from 2-4 […]
Community invited to join bush regeneration on One Mile Beach headland
THE Friends of Tomaree National Park group is continuing work to regenerate bush and improve the resilience of coastal forest on One Mile Beach headland. The community is invited to join the effort on Saturday morning, 10 May, when volunteers will tackle invasive Bitou Bush and undertake planting in bare areas. “[The] community have already […]
Man charged following alleged hammer assault in Shoal Bay
A MAN has been charged following an alleged assault with a hammer at Shoal Bay on Anzac Day. About 6pm on Friday 25 April 2025, police were called to Shoal Bay Road following reports a man had been assaulted with a hammer. A 23-year-old man was treated at the scene for a head injury by […]