February 19, 2026
FISHING: Lizards, pelagics, and a missing FAD
Fishing

FISHING: Lizards, pelagics, and a missing FAD

IF you’re looking for calmer waters this week, the local wharfs and river mouths are the go-to spots for bream. However, the real standout has been the flathead fishing, it’s been nothing short of exceptional. Local anglers are landing impressive catches near Pelican Island and the Limeburners Creek entrance. For the best results, try using […]

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Motorcyclists and riders ready for charity Dice Run The ‘Open to all Motorcyclists and Riders, Charity Dice Run’ takes place on Saturday 21 February.
Event

Motorcyclists and riders ready for charity Dice Run

The ‘Open to all Motorcyclists and Riders, Charity Dice Run’ takes place on Saturday 21 February. The ‘Open to all Motorcyclists and Riders, Charity Dice Run’ takes place on Saturday 21 February. WITH dozens of motorcyclists riding in the Mid North Coast Charity Dice Run on Saturday 21 February, organisers are hoping for clement weather. […]

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Fishing: Cobia surge at Plomer Bay as sharks challenge anglers
Fishing

Fishing: Cobia surge at Plomer Bay as sharks challenge anglers

ANGLERS are currently enjoying a productive run in the Hastings River, where bream catches remain consistently high. Prawns and yabbies have been the standout baits while those heading further upstream are finding plenty of flathead eager to strike both surface and diving lures. The crabbing scene is equally active. Pelican Island is producing a run […]

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Marlin Mania and Mid North Coast forecast
Fishing

Marlin Mania and Mid North Coast forecast

ANGLERS have plenty to look forward to this long weekend, with the weather forecast looking fantastic for fishing. We are expecting light north-east winds, providing a great window for those looking to get out on the water. In the Camden Haven region, anglers have been finding success with bream and whiting. Beach worms and pipis […]

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Golden Lures and coastal catches: celebrating 42 years of tournament fishing Mick Lee (right) celebrates his first striped marlin, landed off Plomer on live bait. He’s pictured with crew member Will Campagnolo.
Fishing

Golden Lures and coastal catches: celebrating 42 years of tournament fishing

CELEBRATING its 42nd year, the Garmin Golden Lure Tournament is back with an exciting line-up for competing anglers. Weather permitting, it promises to be a fantastic event for everyone involved. Spectators are encouraged to head down to the Hastings River waterfront this Saturday morning at 7:45am to witness the traditional sail-past as the fleet heads […]

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3/68 Lord Street, Laurieton is on the market with Harcourts Laurieton
Property

3/68 Lord Street, Laurieton is on the market with Harcourts Laurieton

3/68 Lord Street, Laurieton JUST one street back from Laurieton’s vibrant main street, this generously sized villa offers convenience and lifestyle in one. At only 350 metres to the town centre, you’ll enjoy easy walking access to shops, cafes, medical facilities, and everything this charming coastal town has to offer. If you’re looking to downsize […]

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Channelling my mother’s festive spirit through her Christmas cake Ladies in black: Jean Ball, Ann Cain and Duna Miranda with Miss McGregor in her shop in 1958.
Food

Channelling my mother’s festive spirit through her Christmas cake

The recipe written in Mum’s hand in 1958. Photos: Pauline Cain. Ladies in black: Jean Ball, Ann Cain and Duna Miranda with Miss McGregor in her shop in 1958. Soaking the fruit in Grandma Cain’s bowl. Mum wrote the recipe in the back of this well worn Presbyterian Women’s Missionary Union cookbook, which I suspect […]

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Jane Austen’s 250th birthday celebrated at Port Macquarie Hastings Library Some of those who dressed for the occasion, admiring the afternoon tea. Photo: Pauline Cain.
Event

Jane Austen’s 250th birthday celebrated at Port Macquarie Hastings Library

Some of those who dressed for the occasion, admiring the afternoon tea. Photo: Pauline Cain. Jeannie Bennett (best costume), Claire from Bookface (who donated prizes) and Angela Frimberger (quiz winner). Photo: Pauline Cain. IT’S been 250 years since celebrated writer Jane Austen was born in the village of Steventon in North Hampshire, England. Port Macquarie […]

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Peter FitzSimons ‘works the crowd’ at Port Macquarie Library
Entertainment, Event

Peter FitzSimons ‘works the crowd’ at Port Macquarie Library

Peter FitzSimons at the Port Macquarie Library. Photo: supplied. Karen Bale with Peter FitzSimons. Photo: Pauline Cain. AUTHOR, journalist and former Australian rugby player Peter FitzSimons charmed a crowd of around 100 people at the Port Macquarie Library on Monday, 24 November. FitzSimons is one of Australia’s best selling non-fiction writers, and was in town […]

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