Kevin and Judy Baker with Mark Vaille. Kevin Baker playing Captain Cook in the bi-centenary celebrations. Kevin Baker. PROMINENT former local pharmacist Kevin Baker was laid to rest by family last month. Kevin was born on 6 January 1935 at Abbotsford, Sydney to John and Edna Baker. He was the youngest of seven children. Educated […]
Government funding to fast-track more than 1800 new homes in Port Macquarie
MORE than 1800 new homes are to be fast-tracked in Port Macquarie following a major investment in housing and planning by the Minns Government. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council will receive $200,000 through round three of the NSW Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund for its “Port Macquarie planning control review to unlock housing”. The funding will support […]

Organisers of Mother’s Day Classic ‘blown away’ by support
ORGANISERS of this year’s Mother’s Day Classic in Port Macquarie say they were “blown away” by the number of participants in Sunday’s charity walk and run event. The fundraising leaderboard is still being tallied, with donations accepted until 30 June. The extent of participants’ efforts in raising money for breast and ovarian cancer research could […]
‘The Swell’ returns to the Glasshouse due to popular demand
Stacey and Kirsty Napper of Snappy Productions. Photo: Tegan Jade Photography. The Swell cast in action. Photo: Glitterbug Photography. The story comes to life during the cast’s table read. Photo: Tegan Jade Photography. FOLLOWING sell-out performances earlier this year, the Glasshouse is set to host the return of Snappy Productions’ rendition of Isley Lynne’s play […]
Vandals taunt Port Macquarie family over memorial seat
The cruel taunt left behind by the memorial vandal. Photo: supplied. Kenn Brown with his late son Andrew. Photo: supplied. The Brown family’s plaques, before they were removed by vandals. Photo: supplied. IN what many are calling “disgusting”, “distressing”, and “downright disrespectful”, vandals have left a Port Macquarie family heartbroken after a memorial seat honouring […]
Local businesses urged to nominate for a place in the tourism spotlight
TOURISM operators across the Mid North Coast are encouraged to put themselves forward for one of the industry’s highest honours, with nominations now open for the 2025 NSW Tourism Awards. This year marks a new era for the awards program, which has undergone a national review to streamline the entry process. With new categories, simplified […]
Photos: Democracy sausages a hit on Port Macquarie’s soggy election day
Richelle and Susan served up democracy sausages near the PCYC. All photos: Bill Harrow. Voter Judy Campbell was impressed by the PCYC. Richelle and Susan served up democracy sausages near the PCYC. Arriving to join the queue to vote. New locals Ros Winchester and David Lawrence. Sausage king, Andrew. Sarah, Tracey, Brian and William raised […]
Council divided over $500k Tuffins Lane drainage plan
A PROPOSAL to investigate drainage options at Tuffins Lane sports fields has sparked debate at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, with councillors split over whether to commit $500,000 for an environmental assessment and development application. At the 17 April meeting, Council voted 6-3 to consider funding the works in a future Operational Plan or Long-Term Financial Plan. […]

Free independent newspaper launches in Port Macquarie
The Port Macquarie News Of The Area team: (L-R back row) Sue Stephenson, Luke Hadfield, Rikki Waller, Sis Higgins, Group Editor Douglas Connor, (front row) Bill Harrow, Lilly McCloskey, Client Account Manager Chan Ansell and Pauline Cain. News Of The Area Group Editor Douglas Connor and Client Account Manager Chantelle Ansell. The family behind News […]
Efforts to ensure the future of Port Macquarie Museum shortlisted for Heritage Award
Curator Debbie Sommers and Port Macquarie MP Rob Dwyer following the museum’s recent Tourism Awards win. Photo: supplied. The opening of the Port Macquarie Museum in 1960. Photo: supplied. The Conservation Management Strategy shows how the ‘Store’ building has changed since 1836. Image: supplied. THE accolades keep coming for the Port […]