AN experimental holiday shuttle bus service trialled over the Christmas and New Year period in the Tomaree Headland area has proven an overwhelming success, with organisers reporting demand well beyond expectations. The free Tomaree Shuttle, operated in partnership with Port Stephens Coaches and ran from 24 December to 6 January. Looping between Nelson Bay, Shoal […]

Spearow, in December 2025 on the road to a healthy recovery and her subsequent release. Photo: Sea Shelter. Spearow on the day of her rescue in Tanilba Bay, September 2025. Photo: Sea Shelter. BEHIND the walls of Irukandji Shark and Ray Centre, the team at Sea Shelter are quietly continuing to write the rescue tales […]

Mayor Leah Anderson, Kate Washington MP, MRPS Unit Commander Ben van der Wijngaart and other members and guests at the anniversary event. MRPS Volunteers Laurie Nolan and Colin Cahil being interviewed by host Matt Coleborne. Photo: Jacie Whitfield. THE air was emotionally charged with reminiscence, gratitude, and awe at the “10 Years On Bravery and […]

THE spirit of generosity, community and music was on full display on Sunday 7 December, as Port Stephens locals and friends gathered at Soldiers Point Bowling Club for a special fundraising concert in support of Ovarian Cancer Australia (OCA). The concert, titled Peace, Joy and Harmony, drew an enthusiastic crowd of around 200 people, filling […]

THE Fingal Bay Community Association has been putting a Port Stephens Council environmental grant to good use. The group is completing important restoration works along the foreshore at Kiddies Corner, which is located at the southern end of Fingal Bay beach. The project is focused on improving the health and resilience of the coastal environment […]

CHRISTMAS may be over for another year but as several wise locals can attest, some gifts and memories will bring joy for a lifetime. For Valda Wright, for instance, “Teddy” was never just a toy. He was a miracle. Growing up in the difficult years after the war, money was tight and gifts were practical […]

Trinity Catholic College Students working on the Sensory Trail. Sharon Claydon MP talks with Trinity Catholic College Students. Opening Ceremony of the Sensory Trail. Sensory Trail signage. The Sensory Trail. THE Hunter Wetlands Centre has officially opened the first stage of its upgraded Sensory Trail after a year-long restoration program supported by local students, volunteers […]

Attending the Tomaree Friendship Group 30th anniversary gala dinner. With fellow Queens of Heart at The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party fundraiser. Sailing in the season opening ceremony with the Port Stephens Yacht Club. High Tea Spring Fling at Port Stephens Community Arts Centre. BEING a freelance contributor for News Of The Area has delivered far […]