WHEN Bay local Helen Dykes retired she knew she wanted to use her skills and experience to give back to the community. She has now been recognised for her “always awesome, incredible volunteer work” by the Tomaree Neighbourhood Centre (TNC). Helen was named Volunteer of the Month “in recognition of her tireless work, dedication in […]
Thermal drones to map koala habitats in Port Stephens Council project
KOALA habitats across Port Stephens will be mapped using drones as part of a council project taking place over the next few months. The current Port Stephens koala habitat map was created over 20 years ago. Advancements in mapping technology and survey methods mean a more detailed and comprehensive map can be produced. “Koalas can […]

Lions Club of Soldiers Point funds storage and retrieval facility at Tomaree Community Hospital
THE Lions Club of Soldiers Point, in collaboration with the Lions Foundation of Australia and Tomaree Community Hospital Auxiliary, has provided a much-needed storage and retrieval facility. Lions Club president James Enraght-Moony and Lions Club Director Brad Rostron, reviewed the recently installed facility with Health Service Manager/Director of Nursing Hari Nair and Nurse Unit Manager […]
Council replants trees at Shoal Bay foreshore following vandalism
Council signs warn of the fines for tree vandalism. More vandalised trees in Port Stephens. FIVE trees have been planted along the Shoal Bay foreshore to replace recently vandalised trees. Eleven trees were originally planted at the site back in 2021, but were subject to repeated acts of vandalism. “The trees had been cut at […]
Stinker’s History: Shipwreck Stories part 1
FROM the very beginning shipping has been a hazardous means of transport. Port Stephens with all the surrounding reefs and islands has experienced more than its share of wrecks. Between 1800-1950 tragedy struck 110 ships between Broughton Island in the north, out to sea for about 100 kilometres, and south past Morna Point along the […]
Last week’s Community PBL award winners
THE Term 3 Week 2 winners of Raymond Terrace Community Positive Behaviour for Leaning (PBL) awards have been announced. Irrawang PS: Liam is a dedicated PBL representative who independently goes out of his way to assist teachers and students. Liam regularly runs morning assemblies where he discusses the weekly focus, important messages and daily reminders. […]
Port Stephens students shine in their debut roles with Young People’s Theatre
Georgia takes on the role of the mouse, Nibbles. Camille plays the mother cat, Esther. TWO Port Stephens students have scored roles in The Shoemaker’s Secret, an original production by the renowned Young People’s Theatre Newcastle. Despite having no previous drama experience, Year 4 students Camille and Georgia impressed during the audition and have since […]
Tea Gardens’ Original Ferry steams ahead into new season
The Original Ferry Crew for 2025. Photos: Original Tea Gardens Ferry. Deckhand Monika with Kerrie. Christmas in July cruise guests wait to get onboard. WINTER wet and chill have not dampened the spirits of the Original Tea Gardens Ferry, with the owner and crew finalists for two major regional business awards. The Original Tea Gardens […]
High tea with heart: community joins forces for George and Duchenne awareness
GEORGE Stalley is a little superhero living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. While the muscle wasting disease affects his entire little body, it hasn’t robbed him of his spirit and ability to find and spread hope and joy. George’s prognosis will likely see him lose the ability to walk in his early teens, progressing to serious […]
Have your say on the draft Salamander Bay Town Centre Place Plan
RESIDENTS can now have their say on the draft Salamander Bay Town Centre Place Plan. According to Council, the actions in the draft place plan have been designed to prioritise people, improve public spaces, manage traffic and support diverse housing and retail options. Mayor Leah Anderson said the Salamander Bay Town Centre is one of […]