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 […]
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 […]
‘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 […]
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 […]
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 […]

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 […]
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 […]