DEAR Jasminda, Now that the flood waters are starting to subside, I have a new problem - swarms of blood-sucking mosquitoes. What earthly purpose do they serve and what can I do to avoid the bites and potentially Ross River Fever? Mrs Tina W. Dear Tina, It is quite hard to love the humble mosquito,

  ONE of the first indications to the general public that the lighthouse had been completed was a newspaper notification that the temporary light, used since 13 August 1878, was to cease operating and the permanent light displayed from 13 March 1880. After the permanent light was established, the remaining workmen left

  DEAR Jasminda, I am trying to settle a score. Is the word bullsh-t offensive or just vernacular? Ditto for other commonly used swear words. Miss Wendy P. Dear Miss Wendy, I am having trouble imagining a Miss Wendy saying anything offensive. The name reminds me of that lovely lady from Romper Room, although I think that was

  JOHN lives alone in rental accommodation. He has a relatively small bank account and apart from his car and household effects, his only other significant asset is a substantial superannuation fund that he conscientiously contributed to during his working career. Since his wife passed-away several years ago, he has not heard from

  DEAR News Of The Area, DR Jan Strom’s comments of 12 Mar 2021 NOTA re representative democracy as it relates to the casting vote of the Chair, is unarguably correct. Nevertheless, there is an additional relevant fact not included: voters elected nine councillors, an uneven number, the purpose of which is to

  DEAR News Of The Area, WHO will pay for the massive and extensive flooding on our east coast over the past week? And who is paying for the most extensive bushfire event in memory only a year earlier? The economic burden to taxpayers is enormous and don't forget the heartache and trauma these

  DEAR Jasminda, I recently made a negative comment about someone jet skiing in the duck pond during the floods and now I'm apparently a whinger. I was concerned about the safety aspect and flood water whooshing into houses, but instead I am one of those people who can't have a bit of

  WE’VE experienced some heavy rain and downpours this month with severe weather lashing our coast and inland areas. The damage across our region has been substantial and I thank everyone for your patience while we restore damaged roads, drainage and other infrastructure across Port Stephens. We are committed to rebuilding what we’ve