IT is not always easy to find a place where your voice is heard and you can hear from others with similar experience. The National Disability Insurance Scheme can be a confusing and complicated system for those navigating it…
WE all know and are aware of guide dogs and the benefits that they bring to the vision impaired. However, not all of us are aware of the other service dogs in our community making real differences to the lives…
THE koala is iconic both here in Australia and internationally. The bear, that isn’t a bear, is rare and hard to spot. Its population has been decimated by recent bushfires. Add to this the high incidence of illness and…
FOR almost four decades, Tea Gardens Hawks Nest Meals on Wheels (MOW) has been providing a much-needed service to the older residents in the area. The organization has grown considerably from its humble beginnings in the Uniting Church Hall…
THIS year is different, however we are still being asked to dig in, don our gloves and pick up rubbish while participating in the grass roots movement Clean Up Australia Day. The question is “How Will You Step Up?”…
NATHALIE Craig is a name that would bring back fond memories for many readers of the NOTA. They will remember Nathalie – a young, vibrant woman fresh out of University beginning her journalism career writing the NOTA almost single…
FOR many getting their affairs in order is something that can be put off for another day. However, during Wills Week we are reminded that having a valid will can save a great deal of difficulty for those left…
LOCAL community fundraising group, the Pearls of Port Stephen, donated $3000 towards Hunter Medical Research following their very successful ‘Buy my Wardrobe’ fundraising event held on 23 January. Member, Kerry Patterson, told News Of The Area, “Thanks to the…
IN our community there are many people who are quietly making very real differences to the lives of others. They are our carers. They are literally performing an ultimate act of love, for a partner, a parent, a child…
PORT Stephens Council has this week committed to the completion of the shared pathway in Fern Bay, the biggest project planned for the Port town that borders Newcastle. Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer said while part of the path…