15th FEBRUARY, 2026 In Wednesday Social Bowls, Ray Pantlin, Jeff Wylie and Neil Verner were the top dogs, claiming first prize. The Runners Up were Rocky Davis, Darren “Rooster” Darcy and Nick Cooke. Voucher winners were Neil Verner, Cliff Kerr, Barrie Isaac and Lyndsay Moran. Viv Gunter missed out this time. In the Friday Cashpot […]
Legal Hypothetical: Probe into late-life transfers
ALAN makes a will, leaving the whole of his estate to his three daughters. However, shortly before he passes away, he makes a new will, leaving the whole of his estate to his neighbour, Henry. When Alan passes away, his daughters seek legal advice and soon commence proceedings. Henry says that he had formed a […]
FISHING: Shootouts, mackerel, and local legends
I SPENT the weekend down at Nelson Bay for the 2026 Garmin Billfish Shootout, and man, what an event. With over 100 boats hitting the water, the atmosphere was unreal and it was easily one of the best tournaments I’ve seen in a while. It was also great to see some of our local Port […]
‘On the couch’ with Jasminda
DEAR Jasminda, My wife recently picked every green mango off our tree because she was worried about possums and bats. Now we have green mangoes all over the house and they don’t seem to be ripening. Has she made a fatal mistake? George F. Dear George, Since I’m not a mango expert, I was tempted […]
Molly Croft, the 2025 NSW Volunteer of the Year, with Minister Jodie Harrison (left), her mother Ange, and Minister Jihad Dib. Photo: Salty Dingo.
Nominations open for 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards
NOMINATIONS for the 2026 NSW Volunteer of the Year Awards are now open, with family, friends and work mates urged to help celebrate the enormous positive impact of volunteers across the state. The awards are in their 20th year and are run by The Centre for Volunteering to recognise the outstanding work of volunteers in […]
L925I significantly reduces the efficacy of pyrethroid miticides in managing affected mite populations.
Varroa mite showing resistance to chemical treatments
THE NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) has confirmed the first case of Varroa mite pyrethroid resistance in the state. Laboratory testing at the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute identified a known genetic mutation, L925I, which causes pyrethroid resistance in Varroa mites. DPIRD Honey Bee Technical Specialist, Elizabeth Frost, said L925I significantly reduces […]
Kendall’s Sunday Swap is growing more than veggies
Veggie growers meet every Sunday at Kendall Oval. Photo: Cathy Cloran. No money is exchanged, just fresh produce. Photo: Cathy Cloran. The swap is a way of dealing with the gardener’s dilemma of growing too much. Photo: Cathy Cloran. The swap is a way of dealing with the gardener’s dilemma of growing too much. Photo: […]
MAFS Coalition
Police appeal for missing teenager last seen at Lighthouse Beach
POLICE are appealing for public assistance to locate a missing woman who is known to frequent Bonny Hills. Jade Blyth, 19, was last seen at Lighthouse Beach in early December 2025. Unable to be located since, police were notified on Monday 16 February and commenced inquiries into her whereabouts. Police and her family have concerns […]
Mid North Coast’s emerging Indigenous storytellers invited to apply for scholarship
INDIGENOUS creatives across the Mid North Coast are being encouraged to apply for the fourth annual Indigenous Storytellers Scholarship, with applications now open for the 2026 program. The initiative offers meaningful financial backing and professional mentorship, creating a pathway for Indigenous creatives to develop their work and confidence while remaining connected to culture and community. […]
