WENDY Haynes writes picture books and contemporary, historical, and fantasy fiction for young readers. She is also an inaugural member and current President of Port Writers, which was formed in 2014. Wendy started writing in 2002 after completing some online courses. “At 50 I decided I was still not a proper writer and did a […]
RILEY Cone, the creative local behind Mid North Coast drag sensation Planchette, uses art and performance to connect with others, spark conversation and advocate for the queer community. Starting on a drag journey in 2021, Riley has been working closely with local LGBTQIA+ advocacy groups ever since, helping to create safe, inclusive spaces along the […]
A MORNING dog walk turned into a wildlife emergency on Friday 27 June, when a local spotted a distressed flying fox suspended from a tree near the Lake Cathie foreshore. It was entangled in a fishing line with a hook lodged through its mouth and nose. The witness quickly called Wildlife Rescue. A concerned FAWNA […]
Local dairy farmer Tim Bale at the launch with Robert Dwyer MP and Panthers General Manager John Fearnley. Photo: supplied.
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 […]
CHECK the mics and tune up the vocal chords – Australian Idol wants to hear from you Port Macquarie. The much-loved reality singing TV show has been uncovering some of the country’s most formidable musical geniuses since 2003 and, for the first time ever, Channel 7 wants to hear the incredible talent this region has […]
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 […]
Deputy Local Commander Garry Whitaker, Port Macquarie. Photos: supplied. Acting Deputy Operations Manager Natalie Boyd, Taree. Volunteer Lifesaver Georgia Gaddes, South West Rocks. Volunteer Lifesaver Taylah Moffitt, Crescent Head. Deputy Director Member Services Nicole Crowe, Camden Haven. FIVE Mid North Coast rescuers have been named as finalists in the 2025 NSW Rotary Emergency Services Community […]
ŽAŽA Semchyshyn, 15, recently competed at the Elevate Eisteddfod in Sydney, winning the Most Outstanding Performance in her age category (15-18yrs). It was for her contemporary vocal performance of Sarah Bareilles’ song, “She Used to Be Mine” from the musical “Waitress”. The eisteddfod focuses on self improvement and growth, offering workshops and industry support to […]
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 […]
Elsa and Dave on the airwaves.
BORN and raised in the Portuguese capital of Lisbon, Elsa Barbosa arrived on Australian shores in 1983 aged just 17. “I cried all the way on the plane,” she said. “I was leaving my friends behind and it was so hard.” Despite that tough start in Australia, Elsa always had a strong desire to help […]
