January 18, 2026
Extreme weather increasing health risks in rural and remote Australia ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin. Photo: @ACRRM4ruralhealth
Community, Health

Extreme weather increasing health risks in rural and remote Australia

THE Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) says extreme weather across Australia is increasing health risks for rural, remote and First Nations communities and placing growing pressure on local health services. ACRRM President Dr Rod Martin says prolonged and severe weather events are affecting the health of rural communities and will continue to […]

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Bonny Hills Art Prize firmly ensconced as an institution
Community

Bonny Hills Art Prize firmly ensconced as an institution

The ‘Top Shop’ by Jan Wilson. Bonny Hills Art Prize display. AFTER five years the Bonny Hills Art Prize is firmly ensconced as an institution on the summer calendar for the Camden Haven region. This year saw 1000 locals and 200 tourists through the doors enjoying the incredible range of work on display. “Top Shop” […]

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Donation to RFS Lorne to help volunteers during bushfire season Martin Newell with members of Lorne RFS.
Community

Donation to RFS Lorne to help volunteers during bushfire season

PORT Macquarie-based Real Estate Agent Martin Newell loves Lorne. “I have been a real estate agent in the area for more than 23 years. I lived in Lorne for many years and have had family living there; it is quite simply one of my favourite places in Australia,” he told News Of The Area. To […]

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Free dog-friendly camping from coast to high country Free camping is available at Chichester State Forest, near Dungog. Photo: NSW State Forests.
Community

Free dog-friendly camping from coast to high country

NSW State Forests are open for free, pet‑friendly camping from the coast to the high country. There are almost 500 State Forests and many offer camping facilities where dogs, under their owner’s control, are welcome. Campfires are also permitted, outside of fire bans. “State Forests are a fabulous resource for the community,” Manager Tourism and […]

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Indigenous artist Bryce Moran joins CHL exhibition to promote mental health awareness Bryce Moran and his sea life-inspired artworks on display at the Port Macquarie Library. Photograph: supplied.
Community

Indigenous artist Bryce Moran joins CHL exhibition to promote mental health awareness

A PICTURE can tell a thousand words, but for 76-year-old Bryce Moran, a paintbrush can also tell a story of culture, healing and hope. The proud Indigenous artist, Elder, and Community Housing Limited (CHL) tenant, has exhibited his work across Australia. Yet, it’s a local art show that holds the deepest meaning for him. This […]

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Hastings community reminded to review bushfire plan Robert Dwyer MP with Johns River Brigade Captain Chris Bawn.
Community

Hastings community reminded to review bushfire plan

WITH the summer season well underway, emergency services are urging the community to prioritise safety and take simple steps to prepare for extreme weather and potential emergencies. Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer said, “Summer is one of the busiest periods for emergency responders, with increased risks of bushfires, storms, floods and water-related incidents. “Agencies […]

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SES interns pass with flying colours The Camden Haven SES Unit with graduating interns.
Community

SES interns pass with flying colours

The Camden Haven SES Unit with graduating interns. Caz Dobson and Katie Green. The Baptist Church choir in full voice. SES units at the church function. NOVEMBER was a busy month for the Camden Haven State Emergency Service (SES), with key management appointments, community outings and the finalisation of an intern program. The unit’s leadership […]

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Long-standing FAWNA member Meredith Ryan recognised with prestigious Wildlife Rehabilitator Award Meredith Ryan is awarded the NSW Wildlife Council’s Inaugural Wildlife Rehabilitator Award.
Community

Long-standing FAWNA member Meredith Ryan recognised with prestigious Wildlife Rehabilitator Award

AFTER 34 years of dedicated service, Meredith Ryan has been recognised for her incredible work with FAWNA. Meredith received the NSW Wildlife Council’s “Wildlife Rehabilitator Award”, during the council’s 20th anniversary event on Friday 28 November. NSW Minister for Climate Change, Energy, Heritage and the Environment Penny Sharpe, presented the inaugural award to Meredith, for […]

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New committee elected for community radio station Kevin Carter, Shaz Salter and Mal Salter.
Community

New committee elected for community radio station

Jean White has joined the volunteer team at 2Way FM. Outgoing Secretary Ross Cutrupi, Treasurer Greg Hayward, Vice President Ken Lindsay and President Dennis Owen. Kevin Carter, Shaz Salter and Mal Salter. Liz Faassen was awarded life membership. HASTINGS Community Radio (2Way FM) held its annual general meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, 25 November at the […]

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