Kayaking on the Wilson River was a popular activity. For some, it was all about balance. CANOEING, rock climbing and camel riding were just some of the sporting activities enjoyed by 436 Scouts and their leaders at Dungog Corroboree 2026. Converging on the town were groups from across the Hunter and Upper Hunter, as well […]
Gloucester’s Brenda McDonald keeps giving despite the odds
BRENDA McDonald has had to contend with ill health for most of her life. When she was five, she contracted polio, though she recalls her symptoms were mild. At 13, she spent three months in hospital with thyroid problems, and at 22, was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Since then, Brenda has faced cancer in various […]
Barrington Hall in Gloucester to host Australia Day markets
BARRINGTON Hall will host the markets on Australia Day, bringing locals and visitors together for a morning of community, food and handmade goods. The Australia Day markets will run from 8.30am until 12.30pm at Barrington Hall, offering a wide range of stalls including cakes, woodwork, pickles, jams, candles, handicrafts and jewellery. Visitors can enjoy a […]
Even if parked in the shade with the windows partially down, dogs can die in a car in less than six minutes. Photo: GabesDotPhotos/Pexels.
Government flags tougher penalties for animal cruelty including jail time for leaving dogs in hot cars
DOG owners tempted to leave their pet in the car when they run to the shops, will soon risk tougher penalties. The State Government is delivering on its election promise to review the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act 1979 (POCTAA), flagging heavier fines and longer jail sentences. Minister for Agriculture, Regional and Western NSW, […]
Still no fix for dangerous Bucketts Way intersection
THERE is still no relief in sight for long-suffering motorists trying to turn right from Bucketts Way onto the Pacific Highway during busy periods. On 8 January 2025, News Of The Area reported that “those travelling south from Gloucester will, for the foreseeable future at least, continue experiencing the often-long delays, and significant risks associated […]
Gloucester Australia Day Committee selects local legend Murray Bowden as Australia Day Ambassador
GLOUCESTER’S Australia Day Committee has selected Murray Bowden as the 2026 Ambassador. This honour is bestowed on local individuals who provide inspiration and promote the celebration of the spirit of Australia Day across various communities. Ambassadors are typically high achieving individuals from diverse backgrounds Including sports people, business leaders, scientists and community workers. By sharing […]
School captain inspired to help end polio
WHEN young Gloucester Rotarian Brodie Taylor heard a talk by visiting Rotarian Ken Hall from Tamworth on polio eradication, his heart stirred. He had some knowledge of polio and hearing that it is almost being eradicated was exciting. The Gloucester High School Year 12 student and Captain immediately knew that he wanted to be part […]
Hundreds of Scouts setting up camp at Dungog Showground
DUNGOG Showground is hosting the Hunter and Coastal Regional Scout Corroboree camp this week. More than 250 Scouts are attending the event, representing the Hunter and Coastal Region as well as Sydney, the Blue Mountains and other areas of NSW. In addition, around 100 Scout leaders will be busy organising and keeping an eye on […]
CEO Doug Taylor talked to school students ahead of the launch of the Smith Family appeal. Photo: The Smith Family.
The Smith Family’s 2026 Back to School Appeal launched
AS families across the Hunter prepare for the return to school, new research has revealed the growing pressure many households face simply trying to meet the basic costs of education. The latest Pulse Survey of families supported by The Smith Family shows that more than four out of five parents and carers are worried about […]
Report seeks more corporate transparency
“THERE are currently no disclosure standards for Australian companies’ charitable spending’” said a spokesperson for the Australia Institute when recently releasing a report titled “Bringing transparency to corporate charity.” “This means claims of corporate giving are hard to verify and frequently dubious.” The report, which called for clear and consistent disclosure standards that would help […]
