Mid North News

Lifeguards searching for two young backpackers at Port Macquarie, today found themselves helping three German tourists, in trouble at the same beach. The missing men, Englishman Hugo Palmer and French national Erwan Ferrieux, haven’t been seen since Sunday the operation to find them has been scaled back.

Old Bar Road has received a major upgrade with construction works completed this week. The surface between Berady Lane and Warwiba Road has been resealed, widened and straightened, making the route safer for motorists. The stretch of road is part of the $100-million state government funding announced in May last year. (VISION ONLY)

The Greens were in town today launching their newest candidate’s state election campaign. Eleanor Spence says she’ll focus on climate change and renewable energy in the Myall Lakes region.

North Coast Indigenous youths spent the day developing and refining their dance skills, under the guidance of some of the best in the business. The Bangarra Dance team stopped in Nambucca Heads, as part of its regional tour… a collaboration with the Department of Education.

Deputy premier, John Barilaro, has brushed off an online poll in Coffs Harbour, which has Nationals candidate Gurmesh Singh trailing independent Sally Townley. The Nationals leader had a busy day on the campaign trail, promising five new pallitive care nurses for the region.

Hopes are fading in the search for two young tourists, missing at Port Macquarie. Personal items belonging to the pair were found at Shelly Beach yesterday morning, prompting police to launch a full-scale land and sea operation.

It’s a one-of-a-kind exchange program designed to improve the lives of indigenous people in remote communities, and today, “Bush to Beach” was launched in Port Macquarie. Three Olympians have signed on to visit the region next month, to help raise funds.

The boat ramp at Harrington is about to receive a major upgrade. As part of the New South Wales Boating Now program, the wharf will be extended nearly six metres so bigger boats can use it. Both the boat ramp and jetty are closed to the public, with work expected to be completed by next week. (VISION ONLY)

After 16 years in the one building, a Taree craft centre has been forced to relocate due to issues with its lease. Handmade on the Manning has moved to Cundletown and staff are encouraging the community to check out the new digs.  

Everything inside Coffs Harbour’s old W-E Smith factory is going under the hammer. Once empty, it’s unclear what will happen to the new building, but there are whispers of another company taking over the space.