SSS Salamander. Photo: State Library Victoria. Just imagine what the Worimi thought as the ‘Salamander’ sailed into the port. STUDYING local history, one of the most fascinating events was the sailing of the ship “Salamander” through the heads into the calm waters of Port Stephens late in 1791, becoming the first ship to enter the […]
New grants to help bush connectivity
THE Regional Tech Hub has announced a new grants program, offering up to $3000 to community groups across rural, regional and remote Australia. The Connect Grants are open to grassroots projects that help people navigate the complex world of phone and internet connectivity. Regional Tech Hub General Manager, Jennifer Medway, said the program is about […]
Local featured in Nelson Bay Artisan Collective’s July exhibition
Robyn Bailey with her bonsai collection. Ocean pastel by Robyn Bailey. The Robyn Bailey exhibition. Another of Robyn’s ocean views. LOCAL artist Robyn Bailey is featured in the latest exhibition being hosted by Nelson Bay Artisan Collective during July. Robyn’s multiple talents include being an award winning artist, Tai Chi instructor, and bonsai creator. Her […]
Medowie Christian School celebrates 100 days of learning in style
Students and teachers join in the fun. Students dressed up in wigs, glasses and pearls. MEDOWIE Christian School’s kindergarten students have just celebrated 100 days of learning. To mark the milestone, students dressed as though they were 100-years-old. The cohort could be seen sporting glasses, walking sticks and grey wigs, with some students even drawing […]
EXPLAINER – The Eastern Blue Groper: A NSW coastal icon
THE eastern blue groper (Achoerodus viridis) is endemic and one of the most iconic fish species found in New South Wales coastal waters. Recognised for its striking cobalt blue colouration and curious nature, this fish holds ecological, cultural, and conservation significance. Its visibility and frequent non-aggressive interactions with snorkelers and divers have made it an […]
Petition calls for return of Discovery train passes
LIBERAL MLC Aileen MacDonald OAM has sponsored a petition to the NSW Legislative Council demanding the reinstatement of three-month and six-month NSW TrainLink Discovery Passes. The six-month Discovery Pass, previously available for $420, offered unlimited travel across NSW TrainLink’s regional train and coach network. The longer term passes have recently been paused by the state […]
Stinker’s Fishin’: Bream off the beach
Bundabah champions Hazel and Audrey with a couple of thumping bream caught just behind the shore break. Hazel Sweeny with a monster bream caught along Hawks Nest Beach. AFTER writing as many fishing articles as I have over the years it could be expected that nothing much would surprise me. Well, I must say I […]
Regional buses get real-time travel technology
Bus users can use websites and apps to plan their journeys with up-to-date service information. All buses are now fitted out with GPS and automatic passenger counting technology. FOR the first time, all NSW regional bus passengers can access real-time bus travel information from their smart devices. All 3,010 contracted buses across rural and regional […]

Stinker’s History: The war years
DURING the early years of the Second World War, when there was a large Army presence in the Nelson Bay area, US army engineers constructed a sealed road, which was to form part of the Nelson Bay Road. In the 1940s wartime era there was an army camp for Australian troops (Far North Coast 2/2nd […]
Category D support for primary producers
ADDITIONAL support has been announced for primary producers in New South Wales affected by the extreme flooding event from 18 May 2025. This funding is provided under Category D of the Commonwealth-State Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments. The package will be available through grants administered by the NSW […]