The Pearly Gates and the Desert Island are two of the most symbolic settings in the cartoon world. The Pearly Gates and the Desert Island are two of the most symbolic settings in the cartoon world. YOU would think that after decades, cartoonists would have wrung out every last drop of humour from two of […]
OPINION: Where are all our beaches going?
PORT Stephens beaches are vital for tourism and recreation, but sea level rise is causing beach narrowing, increasing erosion, and threatening local coastal infrastructure and recreational amenity. Beaches are defined as sandy areas that extend over 20 metres in length, with their upper sections remaining dry at high tide, forming a natural barrier against wave […]
On the couch with Jasminda
DEAR Jasminda, OUR home was adorned with beautifully framed photographic memories of our travels and adventures. Over the past few visits from in-laws, these memories have all been replaced with watercolours. Is this something to embrace or something to mourn? Brett P. Dear Brett, What an unusual conundrum. Are you suggesting your in-laws are perhaps […]
From the Mayor’s Desk: Our Incredible Place Strategy
INVESTING in events, the arts, and culture is about more than just entertainment, it’s about creating better spaces and stronger communities. When we invest in vibrant spaces, we help foster a sense of community and security, while boosting the health and wellbeing of residents. Our Incredible Place Strategy, adopted in 2021, has been a vital […]
Letter to the Editor: Protection for marine life
DEAR News Of The Area, RESTRICTING powered vessel access to and speeds in swimming areas is an excellent move that will ensure much higher levels of safety for swimmers. Unfortunately marine life such as dolphins and turtles further offshore will still have to run the gauntlet of high speed lethal machines. The Port Stephens community […]
‘On the couch’ with Jasminda
DEAR Jasminda, A mutual friend often offers me job opportunities during social gatherings, but doesn’t mention the subject again until the next time we catch up. Should I take these offers seriously and seek further information, or brush them off? Katie L. Dear Katie, Social situations often involve social lubricants. Is your mutual friend half-tanked […]
Stargazing: How long would it take to get to the nearest star?
EVERY night, the stars wink down at us like ancient storytellers, daring us to come closer. They’ve been hanging there for billions of years, teasing us with the possibility that someone – or something – might be staring back. The great cosmic question is simple yet maddening: will we ever actually visit another star? The […]
Scheme
Letter to the Editor: Will AUKUS nuclear subs leak radioactivity?
DEAR News Of The Area, SERIOUS questions need to be asked about AUKUS nuclear subs and the secret plan for a nuclear submarine base in the Port of Newcastle. The UK has experienced several issues with their nuclear subs, including fabrication defects; “signs of flaw” in their reactors; serious cracking to reactor cooling circuits; coolant […]
From the Mayor’s Desk: New International Terminal a game-changer for Port Stephens
LAST week I had the privilege of officially opening the new international terminal at Newcastle Airport, a proud moment for Port Stephens and the entire Hunter region. This new terminal is a gateway, not just to the rest of Australia, but to the world. With year-round international flights now possible, we’re more connected than ever. […]
