September 11, 2025
Drones provide eyes in the sky for Fisheries Officers
Local News

Drones provide eyes in the sky for Fisheries Officers

THE NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is harnessing the power of drones to enhance fisheries compliance operations. DPIRD Director Fisheries Compliance Mika Malkki said fisheries officers are responsible for monitoring the vast coastline and inland lakes and rivers across NSW and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are proving to be a game […]

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‘Floral Fantasia’ for Port Stephens Community Arts Centre
Local News

‘Floral Fantasia’ for Port Stephens Community Arts Centre

Local artists have used the theme “Floral Fantasia” to create an exciting array of works for a new exhibition at the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre. Flowers and gardens bring delight to the exhibition, from a single elegant bloom, to a profusion of colour, shape and perfume. The featured artist for this exhibition is Marianne […]

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Marine Rescue complete late-night assist in challenging offshore conditions The 11-metre sailing catamaran had suffered engine failure.
Local News

Marine Rescue complete late-night assist in challenging offshore conditions

A VOLUNTEER crew from Marine Rescue Newcastle navigated darkness and a fast-flowing run-out tide overnight to rescue a stranded sailor four nautical miles (7.4 km) south of Nobbys Head. Unit Commander Lyn Van Homrigh said the skipper of a 11-metre sailing catamaran called radio operators at the Marine Rescue Sydney State Communications Centre at 10 […]

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Little terns continue remarkable comeback Little terns have had a strong breeding season. Photos: Andrew Robinson.
Local News

Little terns continue remarkable comeback

LITTLE terns in NSW have experienced another strong breeding season, with more than 900 nests counted across the state, the second-highest number in 24 years. Each spring, these tiny seabirds migrate thousands of kilometres across the ocean to nest on Australian shores, including on the beaches and islands of Port Stephens. NSW National Parks and […]

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Emergency services reminder after wet weather rescues SES flood-boat operators and trained rescuers along a flooded street near Emu. Photo: Forster FRNSW.
Local News

Emergency services reminder after wet weather rescues

SES flood-boat operators and trained rescuers along a flooded street near Emu. Photo: Forster FRNSW. Humans and pets rescued from flooded residences. Photo: Forster FRNSW. Tea Gardens Fire & Rescue’s Alex Sinclair with one of the lucky people rescued from the recent floods.Photo: Forster FRNSW. Multi-agency responders, including SES and Fire & Rescue NSW, descended […]

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Virtual Reality training puts Port Stephens carers in the shoes of dementia patients The Dementia Australia training included a video, VR and classroom learning.
Local News

Virtual Reality training puts Port Stephens carers in the shoes of dementia patients

DEMENTIA Australia has visited Harbourside Port Stephens to provide care staff with simulation training using virtual reality (VR). By using this cutting-edge technology along with traditional interactive methods, staff gained deep insights and practical knowledge in a balanced and dynamic learning environment. The first immersive workshop, “Enabling EDIE”, allowed participants to see the world through […]

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Council trialling hot coal bin at Little Beach Council encourages all visitors to Little Beach during the trial period to use the new hot coal bin and remain responsible for their waste.
Local News

Council trialling hot coal bin at Little Beach

PORT Stephens Council is addressing the issue of discarded hot coals in popular public spaces with the launch of a hot coal bin trial at Little Beach. The dedicated bin is being trialled during the busy Easter and Anzac Day long weekends, a period known for increased BBQ activity in the area. “This hot coal […]

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Police conducting bail checks on ‘weak’ legal basis
Local News

Police conducting bail checks on ‘weak’ legal basis

POLICE in Australia’s largest state have been slammed for regularly entering the private property of former inmates out on bail to conduct compliance checks, without a court order. A damning report from the NSW Law Enforcement Conduct Commission says police have been stretching their authority and powers by relying on a weak legal principle to […]

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Grant funding vital to koala protection in Port Stephens Council was awarded over $160,000 under the Federal Government’s Koala Community Grants Round 1.
Local News

Grant funding vital to koala protection in Port Stephens

A THREE-YEAR Federal grant continues to support Port Stephens Council to deliver proactive koala conservation initiatives. In 2023, Council was awarded over $160,000 under the Federal Government’s Koala Community Grants Round 1, focusing on collaboration between researchers and land managers to deliver outcomes for koalas. Council’s Environmental Strategy Team Leader Kimberly Baker emphasised the significance […]

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Volunteers Jo Cliftton and Sue Ismay behind the Yacaaba Centre’s morning teas Volunteers Sue Ismay and Jo Clifton Port Stephens serve a delicious morning tea at The Yacaaba Centre.
Local News

Volunteers Jo Cliftton and Sue Ismay behind the Yacaaba Centre’s morning teas

NELSON Bay locals Sue Ismay and Jo Clifton are the volunteers behind the drop-in morning teas at the Yacaaba Centre. You’ll find them serving tea and iced cakes between 10am -11.30am on Thursdays. Advertise with News of The Area today. It’s worth it for your business. Message us. Phone  – (02) 4981 8882. Email – media@newsofthearea.com.au […]

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