April 6, 2026
Technology transforming fire responses in rural NSW Drones provide volunteers with live vision of firegrounds.
Local News

Technology transforming fire responses in rural NSW

Footage captured by an AI-powered camera system on a watch tower. Photos: supplied. RFS volunteers now have improved access to real-time imagery, particularly in remote and high-risk areas. Drones provide volunteers with live vision of firegrounds. RURAL firefighters in NSW are utilising new technology helping to detect fires earlier, improve situational awareness and strengthen communications […]

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Essential Grants applications closing soon The Repurposing for Resilience volunteers with Kate Haynes from Essential Energy.
Community

Essential Grants applications closing soon

CHARITIES, community groups and not‑for‑profit organisations delivering community‑led projects across Essential Energy’s network area are encouraged to submit their applications for the 2026 Essential Grants program before the end of March. The program is offering grants of up to $15,000 to help eligible organisations bring their initiatives to life and deliver real benefits for people, […]

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Three recognised in inaugural Bonny Hills Community Awards Inaugural award recipients Bill Howell, Melinda Robinson and Brian Barker with BHPA Vice President, Roger Barlow. Photo: NHPA.
Community

Three recognised in inaugural Bonny Hills Community Awards

BONNY Hills residents Bill Howell, Melinda Robinson and Brian Barker, have been recognised for their service to the local community. They are the recipients of the inaugural Bonny Hills Progress Association’s Community Awards, which were presented on 17 March following the association’s annual general meeting. The meeting included updates on key projects. Re-elected Vice-President Kathy […]

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Letter to the Editor: Plenty of problems
Letter to the Editor

Letter to the Editor: Plenty of problems

DEAR News Of The Area, WE are living in dangerous times. We are facing multiple challenges and many crises. The Iran war, fossil fuel shortages, climate change, destruction of our precious planet, Russian aggression and our major ally now gone feral. In Australia we have our own problems. Inequality, an unfair tax system, unaffordable housing, […]

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Home stretch for Beach to Beach pathway Section D5 of the B2B pathway. Photo: PMHC.
Local News

Home stretch for Beach to Beach pathway

THE 11km Beach to Beach Shared Pathway is now in the home stretch with only three sections left to be completed. Once done, this will result in a continuous off-road route from North Haven to Pilot Beach via Laurieton and Dunbogan. Port Macquarie Hastings Council acts as the custodian and technical advisor on the project, […]

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Laurieton draft master plan approved for public exhibition One of the concept drawings in the 2021 draft master plan. Image: PMHC.
Local News

Laurieton draft master plan approved for public exhibition

PORT Macquarie Hastings Council has endorsed the public exhibition of the draft Laurieton Town Centre Master Plan, describing it as an important step forward in shaping the town’s future. First drafted in 2021, the plan has remained unratified despite its significance as a long-term blueprint for the commercial and civic heart of Laurieton. Camden Haven […]

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No new mines but coal expansions given green light Minister for Natural Resources Courtney Houssos (left) talks through the coal industry outlook for 2026-2050. Photo: Courtney Houssos MP.
Local News

No new mines but coal expansions given green light

COAL mine expansions are on the cards for at least another 25 years under NSW’s new mining road map at odds with its environment commission. The NSW government announced its coal industry outlook for 2026-2050 on Thursday, saying it will no longer consider new coal mines but applications to extend existing mines will be assessed. […]

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Charity Feature: Heart Health NSW Heart Health NSW volunteers.
Charity Feature

Charity Feature: Heart Health NSW

HEART Health NSW’s volunteer group provides vital support to patients and families within the cardiac unit at Port Base Hospital. “We visit patients and their loved ones, offering reassurance, emotional support and encouragement – helping them understand there is life after heart surgery and recovery is possible,” the group said. “Our volunteers also assist the […]

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Comboyne mountain biker Luke Meier-Smith wins record fourth Australian downhill title Comboyne’s Luke Meier-Smith has won his fourth Australian downhill title. Photo: Giant Bicycles.
Local News

Comboyne mountain biker Luke Meier-Smith wins record fourth Australian downhill title

COMBOYNE mountain biker Luke Meier-Smith has won his fourth back-to-back Australian downhill title. It means the 23-year-old has equalled the national record held by Troy Brosnan and Tracey Hannah. Described as one of the most exciting downhill racers to watch this season, Meier-Smith completed the 1.8km slippery track at Mt Buller last weekend in a […]

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Laurieton athlete Lachlan Wilson wins NSW U14 hammer throw title Hammer throw gold medalist Lachlan Wilson at the state titles. Photo: supplied.
Sport

Laurieton athlete Lachlan Wilson wins NSW U14 hammer throw title

A YOUNG Hastings athlete has claimed a state title after an impressive rise in hammer throwing over the past two years. Lachlan Wilson, a Camden Haven resident and student at St Joseph’s Regional, picked up a hammer just two years ago and has quickly become a regular presence at Laurieton fields, training and competing each […]

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