THE NSW Government says it is “working around the clock” to help flood-affected communities get back on their feet following the recent severe weather event on the east coast. Service NSW Centres that were closed due to dangerous conditions, including in Taree, Wauchope, Kempsey and Port Macquarie, have now reopened, with the last centre resuming […]
Stinker’s Fishin’: A Marine Park for the future
WITH the Marine Park Advisory Committee soon to be announced it is time for all of us in the community to consider the best possible outcome for the Port Stephens-Great Lakes Marine Park (PS-GLMP). The largest by area of the six Marine Parks in NSW, the PS-GLMP stretches from Forster in the north along the […]
King tides add to coastal flooding
KING tides flooded the coastlines and estuaries around Port Stephens from Thursday 29 May, coinciding with the riverine flooding that rocked the hinterland and Mid North Coast. Masses of seaweed and sand were lifted by the tides over the roads at Pindimar North and South, leaving salty flooding, seaweed and debris in its wake. This […]
Rehab director faces court after allegedly falsifying client drug-use reports
THE former director of the Connect Global drug and alcohol rehabilitation facility has been granted bail after being charged with allegedly perverting the course of justice by falsifying reports about client drug use. Ross Pene, 68, was arrested last Wednesday at the controversial Swan Bay facility, following a year-long investigation. Strike Force Toopuntul was established […]

Scamming behaviour tipped to spike following natural disaster
PREDATORY scammer activity is predicted to skyrocket in the wake of the recent rains and flood disasters. In the aftermath of severe flooding, the State Government is urging people to remain vigilant when donating to recovery efforts. As communities recover and rebuild, authorities are warning that scammers may attempt to exploit the situation through fake […]
Disaster assistance activated for flood affected local government areas
THE Albanese and Minns Governments have activated disaster assistance to communities in Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the Hunter and Mid North Coast following severe weather, including heavy rainfall. The NSW Government’s Natural Disaster Declaration applies to the LGAs of Bellingen, Central Coast, Cessnock, Clarence Valley, Coffs Harbour, Dungog, Kempsey, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, MidCoast, Nambucca, […]
Six-year-old Port Stephens boardrider a natural in the surf
Surfing champion and local coach Eden Hasson with star pupil Phenix Ashby-Shaw of Corlette. Phenix charging in the surf. SIX-year old Corlette surfing sensation Phenix Ashby-Shaw has taken the Port Stephens boardriding scene by storm. After picking up his first surfboard five months ago, the Year One St Phillip’s Christian College student at Salamander Bay […]
Eight new paramedics for the Hunter
NSW AMBULANCE has welcomed eight new paramedics to the Hunter, following their official induction into the service. The new paramedics will be based across Hunter Zones 1 and 2, where they will begin 12-month on-road placements to consolidate their training. “We’re thrilled to welcome eight new paramedics to the Hunter – a boost that will […]

Motorcycle safety workshop held during National Road Safety Week
COUNCIL hosted a free motorcycling safety workshop for riders of all experience levels during National Road Safety Week (11-18 May). The workshop, facilitated by the Survive the Ride Association of NSW, aided motorcyclists in managing risks when riding and encouraged adjustments to riding habits that significantly enhance personal safety. Motorcyclists in the Hunter region were […]
Council prioritising pothole patching as wet weather continues
COUNCIL has increased pothole patching crews across Port Stephens in response to ongoing wet weather. While permanent road network improvements remain the priority for Council and the community, Mayor Leah Anderson said recent heavy rainfall has forced a temporary shift towards critical pothole patching and driver safety. “After a month or more of rain, potholes […]