January 9, 2026
Drawing clouds and coconuts: Why cartoonists never tire of the Pearly Gates and the Desert Island The Pearly Gates and the Desert Island are two of the most symbolic settings in the cartoon world.
Opinion

Drawing clouds and coconuts: Why cartoonists never tire of the Pearly Gates and the Desert Island

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 […]

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OPINION: Where are all our beaches going?
Opinion

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 […]

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On the couch with Jasminda
Jasminda's Advice

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 […]

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From the Mayor’s Desk: Our Incredible Place Strategy
From The Mayor's Desk

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 […]

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Letter to the Editor: Protection for marine life
Letter to the Editor

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 […]

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‘On the couch’ with Jasminda
Jasminda's Advice

‘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 […]

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Stargazing: How long would it take to get to the nearest star?
Opinion

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 […]

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