THE state government launched the $20 million Aquaculture Industry Development Program on Monday, aiming to strengthen and expand the seafood industry’s economic contribution to NSW. The program is designed to boost productivity and increase sustainability across farming operations for oysters, mussels, kelp, and algae, plus freshwater and marine fish hatcheries and bioproducts. “By investing in […]
GALLERIES in the Gardens, Tea Gardens is hosting the “Mambo on the Myall, from Mombassa to Cuba” art exhibition from 6 December to 31 January 2026. The exhibition has multiple themes including artist and musician Reg Mombassa (real name Cristopher O’Doherty), Mambo surf wear, mambo music and dancing, Cuba and South American art. The exhibition […]
The workshops form part of a broader project, which supports the recovery and resilience of the Hunter Estuary Wetlands and Myall Lakes Ramsar sites.
THE NSW Government’s Local Land Services recently teamed up with BirdLife Australia and the Hunter Bird Observers Club to deliver a series of shorebird workshops aimed at inspiring greater understanding and protection of these remarkable migratory species. The ‘Securing the Sanctuaries of Ramsar and Priority Wetlands for Migratory and Marine Species’ project is funded by […]
Newly elected NSW Nationals leader Gurmesh Singh addresses the media.
COFFS HARBOUR MP Gurmesh Singh has been elected as the new leader of the NSW Nationals, following the shock resignation of Dugald Saunders last week. It is the latest promotion for Mr Singh, a former macadamia and blueberry farmer from Woolgoolga, who was named Deputy Leader of the NSW National Party in June 2024. Mr […]
Locally-produced renewable energy, like solar power, benefits communities.
ALL sectors have weighed in on the Federal Coalition’s decision to abandon Net Zero by 2050. This major tool for combatting climate change involves balancing the amount of greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere with the amount removed. Patrick Leyland, Chief Digital Officer at Populares and former Director of Digital Campaigns for the Australian Labor […]
The annual Seniors Festival will have an expanded arts focus in 2026.
THE Hawks Nest Tea Gardens Progress Association (HNTGPA) elected a new committee at its annual general meeting (AGM) on 17 November, appointing long-time local resident Sandra Bourke as President. The executive team for 2026 includes Vice President Thomas O’Keefe, Treasurer Kay Jones, and Secretary Bruce Murray. Returning committee members Leigh Allen (Life Member) and Sherrie […]
Politicians, Jetstar and Airport representatives announce the new route.
IN A boost for the region’s global connectivity, Jetstar has introduced a new flight service from Newcastle to Singapore, via Bali. From 29 March 2026, Jetstar will operate direct services between Newcastle and Bali on Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, with all four weekly Jetstar flights to continue on to Singapore, via a 90-minute stop […]
THE Hunter New England Local Health District team has been recognised for its outstanding contribution to health care at the 2025 NSW Health Awards. The annual event celebrates the dedication, kindness, innovation and achievements of those who make a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of their communities. “I’m incredibly proud to celebrate the […]
Supermoons are the closest to earth. Photo Greg Higgins.
Supermoons are the closest to earth. Photo Greg Higgins. The moon was 30 percent brighter than normal. Photo: Sis Higgins. SKYWATCHERS across the region looked to the heavens last Tuesday night as the biggest and brightest moon of 2025 rose over the horizon. Amateur astronomer Dennis Hughes explained to News Of The Area why the […]
A NEW program has been launched to support local recovery efforts after the devastating May 2025 floods. Funded by the NSW Reconstruction Authority, the program aims to strengthen the region’s ability to recover through community-led action, partnerships, practical support and the funding of a Community Recovery Officer at MidCoast Council. MidCoast Council’s Director of Liveable […]
