September 7, 2026
LETTER: Tomago deal is an investment, not a bailout
Letter to the Editor

LETTER: Tomago deal is an investment, not a bailout

DEAR News Of The Area, IN his recent letter (Tomago Aluminium bailout is a crisis of Government policy, NOTA, 27/8/26), Troy Radford describes the Tomago Aluminium agreement as a bailout caused by government energy policy. He’s right about one thing: Tomago is enormously important to the Hunter. But blaming renewable energy for Tomago’s challenges ignores […]

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LETTER: Priorities, not pet projects
Letter to the Editor

LETTER: Priorities, not pet projects

THE most-recent edition of Port Stephens News of the Area pointed to just how far governments have become isolated from the wishes and needs of the local community. Your front-page article ‘Troubled Path’, and Anne Ronan’s Letter to the Editor, both expressed frustration and dismay at the funds being spent on an unwanted pathway. This […]

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‘On The Couch’ With Jasminda:
Jasminda's Advice

‘On The Couch’ With Jasminda:

DEAR Jasminda, I’VE just been told of my success in getting a new job. While I’m thrilled, part of it involves networking. Not only do I hate large social gatherings, I also have trouble remembering people’s names. I’m considering declining the job offer. Larry C. DEAR Larry, SOCIAL anxiety can be debilitating and can result […]

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ON THE COUCH WITH JASMINDA: Keep it short and sweet
Jasminda's Advice

ON THE COUCH WITH JASMINDA: Keep it short and sweet

DEAR Jasminda, WHEN I am asked, “How are you”, at the supermarket, I always ask the same question back and continue with some friendly smalltalk. My wife tells me the cashier has no interest in how I am, nor are they interested in extending the conversation, and it’s just a platitude. What do you think? […]

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