LOCAL “bookie” Jo Borger has been fielding at the local horses for the past two years. Bookmaking is in her blood. Her Mum Kerrie was a bookie for 30 years and was the first female to be registered with the NSW Bookmakers’ Co-op. Jo remembers going to the races from the age of five. When […]
Landcarers restore key habitats in Crowdy Bay National Park
A DEDICATED team of local landcare groups and volunteers has contributed more than $240,000 worth of labour towards the restoration of key habitats in Crowdy Bay National Park. Eighteen volunteers attended the National Parks Association’s (NPA) annual bush regeneration camp in June, coinciding with the conclusion of a four-year $127,000 grant from the NSW Environmental […]
‘Spirit of the Bush’ competition returns to celebrate life on the land
RURAL Aid has launched the sixth annual Spirit of the Bush Photo Competition, inviting Upper Hunter residents to share striking images that capture the strength, resilience, and beauty of life on the land. Running from 14 July to 31 August 2025, the much-loved competition provides a powerful platform for rural and regional Australians to tell […]
Heart of the Haven: Graham Lee
DISINTERESTED in the limelight, Camden Haven’s Graham Lee spends his days quietly helping out his community. “I just want to get on with helping where I can,” he said humbly. Telling NOTA about his life’s journey, Graham reflects on an upbringing typical of the era. “I grew up in a family of six,” Graham said. […]
Paddle and Pedal: Kendall Boatshed’s winter escape to Moonee Beach
MEMBERS of the Kendall Boatshed kayaking group set off on their latest multi-day “away” paddle last month, this time heading north to the tranquil surrounds of Moonee Beach near Coffs Harbour. With kayaks, bikes, caravans and camping gear in tow, 20 paddlers set up base camp and gathered around the fire pit beneath a vivid […]
Samaritan’s Purse clocks up 9000 hours of hands-on help for flood-hit Mid North Coast communities
Ray Vasukinausori, Tarai Kubukawa and Semi Kubunavanua rolled up their sleeves to help rebuild lives and communities. Photo: supplied. Ray Vasukinausori and Tarai Kubukawa install new windows as they rebuild homes one frame at a time. Photo: supplied. SAMARITAN’S Purse officially wrapped-up more than 9000 hours of hands-on flood disaster response, on Tuesday 1 July. […]
Mid North Coast finalists named in Emergency Services Awards
FIVE Mid North Coast rescuers have been named as finalists in the 2025 NSW Rotary Emergency Services Community Awards (RESCA), honouring their outstanding service and commitment to community safety. Announced by Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib at a special event at Parliament House, the awards recognise 28 finalists across NSW. The local finalists are: […]

Local clubs fundraising to help dairy farmers’ flood recovery
A GRASSROOTS fundraising campaign to support local dairy farmers devastated by recent floods, was launched on Monday 30 June by Member for Port Macquarie Robert Dwyer. “The recent severe flooding has had a devastating impact on our local communities, including the dairy farmers in the Manning and Hastings region,” he said. “These hardworking families are […]
‘We won’t be forgotten’: Kempsey rally calls out flood recovery delays
FLOOD-AFFECTED communities of the Mid North Coast came together to rally for Category D disaster funding at Kempsey Racecourse on Sunday 29 June. Residents, farmers and business owners united in a call for urgent recovery support, including increased flood relief payments for primary producers from $25,000 to the maximum $75,000. A free community BBQ, provided […]
Grants up for grabs to boost community projects
NOT-FOR-PROFITS schools and councils are being encouraged to apply for the NSW Government’s Infrastructure Grants program, which is now open and offering between $50,000 and $300,000 to fund community-focused projects. Member for Oxley Michael Kemp said the Clubgrants Category 3 Fund is an excellent opportunity to secure funding for projects that make a lasting impact […]