DEAR Jasminda, WE are organising a large birthday function and there are relatives that don’t get along with each other. How do we ensure no one feels left out while still making it an enjoyable experience for everyone? Harriet P. Dear Harriet, If your large family events traditionally look like an episode of Dr Phil, […]
ONE of my biggest priorities as Mayor, and something our whole Council is committed to, is making Port Stephens a place where everyone feels they belong and can live a happy, healthy life. Our Community Wellbeing Strategy is our roadmap for this, and a really important part of that is making sure people with disability […]
DEAR News Of The Area, Labor’s political opportunism, environmental hypocrisy, and bullying continues. Justin Page’s letter (8 May 2025) is yet another example of Labor-funded political hypocrisy. A union and Labor operative now posing as a “local community advocate” at the Hunter Jobs Alliance, Page has the audacity to accuse everyday Australians of “opportunism” and […]
DEAR News Of The Area, “It is time to move forward with a proper, fact-based assessment of the environmental and economic impacts of the Hunter offshore wind industry, ensuring the region can seize the opportunities of a clean energy future and it is time to put an end to the misinformation surrounding offshore wind.” Hear, […]
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 […]
DEAR News Of The Area, I WANT to call out the blatant hypocrisy and political opportunism driving the aggressive campaign against offshore wind projects in Port Stephens. Opponents of offshore wind made alarmist claims about its potential impact on the marine environment, while at the same time aligning themselves with the Liberal Party, a party […]
DEAR News Of The Area, PETER Dutton blames “Hate Media” such as the ABC and The Guardian for contributing to his defeat in the election. The fact is that most media in Australia favours the conservative side of politics. The Murdoch-owned The Australian, Daily Telegraph and Herald Sun consistently favour the Coalition. Dutton generously shared […]
PORT Stephens is a vibrant region, with each town and village offering something special. Salamander Bay Town Centre is one of our key commercial and community hubs. Over time, it’s grown without a clear plan, but that’s changing. With your help, we’re creating a Salamander Bay Town Centre Place Plan to shape a vision for […]
DEAR Jasminda, YET again I have destroyed my healthy eating plan over Easter. The couple of kilos I lost following my New Year’s resolution are back on the scales. It all feels like a waste of time trying to get fit and healthy. Do I just give in and give up? Tina P. Dear Tina, […]
