RESEARCHERS are attempting to develop a device capable of degrading a carcinogenic form of the so-called “forever chemicals” PFAS in water in as little as six minutes using low-wavelength ultraviolet light. PFAS – used in firefighting foam, products such as non-stick pans, and by many industries – repel oil, grease and water, but persist in […]
Youth crime committee tables first report
THE first report of an inquiry into community safety has been tabled, highlighting an urgent need for early intervention to deal with the complex social drivers of youth crime in regional and rural NSW. Since adopting the inquiry on 20 March 2024, the Committee of Law and Safety received almost 200 submissions and conducted hearings […]
Review launched into ‘doli incapax’
A NEW study by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has found a significant decline in the number of young people aged 10 to 13 years found guilty of a criminal offence in NSW, following a landmark High Court of Australia decision in 2016. The decision in the case of RP v […]
Port Stephens Council says ‘no’ to Anna Bay rezoning
A CONTROVERSIAL planning proposal was on the agenda at Port Stephens Council’s most recent meeting. The proposal, from the development firm AB Rise Pty Ltd, sought to have 125 hectares of land in Anna Bay rezoned to allow for the creation of 584 new homes. The developer put forward the proposal as a potentially significant […]
Regional consultation guide released by NSW Government
A NEW guide has been released which aims to strengthen NSW Government consultation practices with regional, rural and remote communities across the state. The “Regional Communities Consultation Guide” outlines the Government’s approach to consulting with regional, rural and remote communities, including Aboriginal communities. The release of the guide follows the introduction of the Regional Communities […]

Stinker’s History: More than farmers on Marsh Road
LAST October I released my final local history book, “Marsh Road”. The book told of the endeavours of the dairy farming community which branched out to grow and sell vegetables of the highest quality. Not all residents along Marsh Road were dependent on the land however. The rich waters of Tilligerry Creek, which flow adjacent […]