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Sydney, NSW – The Parliamentary Workplace Support Service has revealed a troubling surge in complaints of sexual misconduct within federal parliament, handling 30 cases of sexual assault, harassment, stalking, and assault in its first nine months of operation. The annual report from the support service, established following the landmark Set the Standard report, shows a total of 339 complaints managed between October 2023 and June 2024. This includes 33 cases of bullying and 62 cases involving family or domestic violence, substance abuse, or mental health issues. Health Minister Mark Butler expressed concern over the findings, acknowledging the need for improved workplace conduct at Parliament House. “It’s really concerning, but as many who have worked in parliament or around parliament for a long time perhaps have said, it’s not entirely surprising,” Butler told Sky News. He emphasized the importance of accountability and the need for continued efforts to raise standards. Earlier this year, MPs passed laws to establish an Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission, tasked with investigating workplace conduct and enforcing a behavioural code. Nationals Leader David Littleproud highlighted the progress made but stressed that more work is needed. “What these numbers today demonstrate is that after 12 months of reforms, it shows that we’ve created an environment where people feel comfortable to come forward,” Littleproud said on Nine’s Today program. The report underscores the ongoing challenges in creating a safe and respectful workplace within federal parliament. As reforms continue, the focus remains on ensuring that all individuals feel supported and protected. For those in need of support, the National Sexual Abuse and Redress Support Service can be reached at 1800 211 028, 1800 RESPECT at 1800 737 732, and Lifeline at 13 11 14. Stay tuned to 90.1 NBC FM for further updates on this critical issue.

Sydney, NSW – With Donald Trump back in the White House, questions have arisen about the future of the AUKUS deal, a multibillion-dollar agreement that would see Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines from the US. Despite initial concerns, experts believe the deal will remain intact. Charles Edel , Australia chair at the Washington-based Center for Strategic and International Studies, reassures that Trump is likely to support AUKUS. “AUKUS looks like a deal Trump should be able to get behind. Not only is Australia investing in the United States, but this is a classic example of allies doing more for themselves and alongside the United States,” Edel explained on ABC’s Insiders program. AUKUS was a key topic in the first conversation between Trump and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese following the US election. Under the deal, the US will sell three Virginia-class submarines to Australia starting in the early 2030s, with new submarines to be built subsequently. Health Minister Mark Butler emphasized that Trump’s election does not signal a shift in Australia’s commitment to net-zero emissions, despite Trump’s stance on the Paris climate agreement. “It won’t stop the global investment shift towards net zero technology,” Butler told Sky News. Butler also noted that Trump’s victory highlights voters’ demand for governments to prioritize cost-of-living issues. “Households want their governments focused on them and doing everything they responsibly can to help,” he said. The relationship between Australia and the US is expected to endure, regardless of who is in the White House. However, Butler warned that Trump’s plans to impose tariffs could indirectly impact Australia’s economy by slowing global growth and increasing inflationary pressures. Opposition housing spokesman Michael Sukkar pointed out that Australia’s cost-of-living crisis is more severe than that in the US, urging the government to focus on domestic issues. “The US election result sends a strong message to this government. This government has been very distracted,” Sukkar said. As the political landscape shifts, Australians are encouraged to stay informed and engaged. Tune in to 90.1 NBC FM for the latest updates on how these developments will affect our nation.

Kogarah, NSW – The Albanese government’s plan to ban children under 16 from social media and gaming platforms has sparked significant opposition among local parents and teens. The proposed legislation, intended to protect young Australians from online harms, is facing backlash for potentially limiting freedom of expression and causing more harm than good. Human Rights Commissioner Lorraine Finlay has raised alarms about the rushed nature of the laws, emphasizing the need for careful implementation. “It’s crucial that we don’t rush into creating laws that haven’t been properly consulted with the children who will be most affected,” Finlay stated. She warned that the legislation could negatively impact how children engage online. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has sought input from state and territory leaders, highlighting the urgency of addressing online harms while ensuring practical and beneficial laws. Local Kogarah parents are voicing their concerns. James Nguyen , a father of three, worries about the broader implications: “Banning social media could isolate kids and prevent them from learning essential digital skills.” Emma Roberts , a local teacher, added, “We need to find a balance that protects children without stifling their ability to communicate and learn online.” The debate intensifies as the Albanese government also tackles online misinformation and disinformation, privacy reforms, and new doxxing offences. Critics argue that these measures, while well-intentioned, might stifle free speech and public debate. With the legislation still in the works, Kogarah residents are encouraged to voice their opinions and stay tuned to 90.1 NBC FM for the latest updates on this developing story. Will this crackdown protect our children or limit their freedoms? The community awaits the outcome with bated breath.

In an era dominated by digital media, radio continues to serve as a powerful, personal, and trusted platform for connecting with local communities. For the Kogarah community, NBC FM is more than just a station; it’s a key piece of the social fabric, bridging businesses with residents and fostering a sense of shared identity. Here’s why radio advertising on NBC FM is not only relevant but essential for strengthening community bonds and supporting local growth. 1. Building Local Connections Radio remains one of the few mediums that is both personal and local. Unlike national broadcasts or global social media, NBC FM’s advertising can target Kogarah’s unique audience with local content. Businesses, community events, and services get a platform tailored specifically to reach Kogarah residents. This hyper-local approach builds trust with listeners who recognize NBC FM as a voice of their own community. 2. Cost-Effective Reach with High Impact Radio advertising provides an affordable marketing solution, especially for small and local businesses that may not have the budget for large-scale digital campaigns. With NBC FM, businesses can reach thousands of Kogarah residents multiple times a day. Repeated exposure increases brand recall, meaning listeners are more likely to remember and engage with local businesses when they need a product or service. 3. A Platform to Showcase Local Businesses For businesses in Kogarah, advertising on NBC FM helps level the playing field. Rather than competing with larger businesses on big-name platforms, local enterprises can reach their target audience without the distraction of global brands. This boosts the visibility of small businesses and encourages residents to shop local, which in turn supports the local economy and creates more jobs within the community. 4. Supporting Community Events and Initiatives NBC FM doesn’t just promote businesses; it’s a voice for community events, local issues, and causes. Advertising on NBC FM allows organizations, schools, and nonprofits to publicize community events, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns directly to Kogarah residents. From charity drives to festivals, radio ads can increase turnout and engagement by connecting with people who care about making a positive impact right where they live. 5. Creating a Sense of Belonging and Shared Identity Community radio stations like NBC FM foster a sense of pride and belonging within Kogarah. By advertising with NBC FM, businesses become part of that story. They’re not just promoting a product or service—they’re contributing to the shared experience of what it means to live in Kogarah. When residents hear local voices and local businesses, it reinforces their connection to the community and strengthens the bond between businesses and the people they serve. 6. Reaching a Committed, Engaged Audience Radio listeners are often loyal to their favorite stations, and NBC FM’s audience is no exception. Residents tune in not just for entertainment, but for news and updates relevant to their lives. Ads on NBC FM can be timed to reach specific audiences during peak listening hours, ensuring businesses capture the attention of Kogarah’s residents when they’re most engaged and attentive. 7. An Effective, Trusted Medium People trust radio. Studies consistently show that radio is one of the most trusted media forms, especially in local markets. In Kogarah, where NBC FM has established itself as a credible, reliable voice, businesses advertising on the station benefit from this trust. When an ad airs on NBC FM, it’s more than just an endorsement—it’s a vote of confidence in the product or service being advertised. Investing in a Stronger, More Connected Kogarah By advertising on NBC FM, businesses aren’t just investing in their own growth; they’re investing in the vibrancy and resilience of the entire Kogarah community. Every ad supports the station that keeps residents informed, entertained, and engaged. NBC FM has been a staple of the Kogarah area for years, and with community-minded businesses at its side, it can continue to thrive, providing value for listeners and helping local businesses succeed. Let’s keep our community strong, connected, and flourishing—tune in, support local, and make radio advertising a key part of Kogarah’s future.

As the year winds down, it’s hard to believe how quickly 2024 has flown by, with 2025 just around the corner! This year brought a mix of exciting developments and some technical hurdles, but overall, it’s been a productive and rewarding journey for 90.1 NBC FM. Here’s a roundup of what’s been happening and what’s in store for the future. Technical Updates We’ve had a relatively smooth ride with technical issues this year, with only a few minor hiccups that were swiftly resolved. Early in 2024, we faced some transmitter issues that briefly took us off the air. Fortunately, our technical consultant, Darryl Smith, stepped in to tackle the problem, even managing to resolve some issues remotely. In the coming months, Darryl will be implementing upgrades, including a new security system with advanced alarms and CCTV, and a seven-second profanity delay unit. Additionally, we’re excited about new Outside Broadcast (OB) equipment that will let us bring live broadcasts from community events and even listeners’ homes. Our two studios are also getting a major soundproofing upgrade, made possible by a grant from the NSW Premier’s Department. This project, expected to wrap up before Christmas, will add soundproofing to ceilings, windows, walls, and doors, reducing external noise for a smoother, higher-quality broadcast experience. Sponsorship News While securing sponsorship remains challenging, we’re grateful to have three valued sponsors: Club Rivers, Australian Unity, and Greg Huggett & Co. To continue operating at full capacity, however, we need to attract at least two or three more sponsors. Our revenue relies on a blend of government grants, fundraising events, donations, and sponsorships. We’re fortunate to have steady grant support, but we also host events to boost funds. This past July, we hosted a successful “Christmas in July” celebration at Rashays in Beverly Hills. And on December 1st, we’ll be gathering for our annual Christmas function with a festive lunch cruise on Sydney Harbour. With our tax-deductible status, now is a great time for supporters and local businesses to consider making a donation or sponsoring the station. Every contribution goes a long way in supporting community radio, and we welcome anyone interested in learning more to get in touch. Community Events and Promotions Our annual Christmas function on December 1st, held on the beautiful Vagabond Spirit, is more than just a fundraiser—it’s an opportunity for our listeners to connect with us in person. We call these “friendraisers” because they’re a chance for us to foster strong relationships with our listeners and volunteers. Beyond our annual events, we stay active in the local community. In September, we participated in the Lugarno Lions Community Fair, a beloved tradition for our station, and we also regularly attend the Hurstville Collectables and Record Fair, held four times a year. Events like these allow us to connect with the community and boost our visibility, a priority for us as a local radio station. Programming and Team Updates This year brought both losses and new beginnings within our presenter team. We were deeply saddened by the passing of Marty Morton, who continued to bring his voice to the airwaves despite a prolonged illness. Additionally, we bid farewell to John Graska and John Atkinson, both of whom had to step down due to health reasons. John Atkinson remains active in spirit, and we’re pleased that he is mobile and communicative. Geoff Jones also left to dedicate more time to his family. On a brighter note, we welcomed new members to the team. Peter Grey and Michael Andon joined us with permanent shifts, and Maddy Graham became a vital part of the “Women in the Room” team. Two of the show’s regular presenters, Vivi and Marilyn, have taken on extra shifts, while journalism students Marcus and Noah are contributing to our community news segment. Their involvement not only brings fresh energy but also enhances our focus on local news, a commitment we look forward to expanding. Season’s Greetings As we wrap up the year, we extend our warmest wishes to our listeners and supporters. May you have a safe and joyful Christmas season, and may 2025 bring health, happiness, and new adventures. From all of us at 90.1 NBC FM, we look forward to staying connected with you in the new year! You can read the full report here. Warm regards, Paul McGrath OAM CEO

During His Majesty King Charles III's visit to the NSW Parliament on Sunday, Oatley MP Mark Coure took the opportunity to extend a personal invitation to the monarch, encouraging him to visit the St George area on his next trip to Australia and enjoy a classic Aussie BBQ. Mr. Coure expressed his pride in sharing the vibrant and multicultural community of St George with the King. He highlighted the region's rich diversity, which plays a significant role in shaping its inclusive and dynamic character. "The multicultural heritage of St George is something we are incredibly proud of," Mr. Coure said. "It’s home to many cultural groups, all contributing to the unique spirit of our community." During their conversation, Mr. Coure also took the chance to mention some of the beautiful parks and green spaces that the St George area has to offer, such as Oatley Park, Gannons Park, and Carss Park. He noted that these natural spots are essential to the community, providing residents with spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors. In a warm gesture, Mr. Coure suggested that when King Charles returns to Australia, he would be more than welcome to visit the St George area and experience its cultural richness firsthand. "It would be an honour for us to showcase our parks, open spaces, and even offer a walk through St George Hospital to see the top-notch health care and wonderful medical staff," Mr. Coure added. The invitation serves as a reflection of the pride the local community feels for its diverse heritage and beautiful environment, and Mr. Coure believes a royal visit would be a fantastic opportunity to showcase the heart and soul of the region. Stay tuned to 90.1 NBC FM  for more local news updates and stories about the St George community!

Oatley local Ben Armstrong has been awarded the prestigious Rising Star Award at the Australian Game Developer Awards, a top accolade in the Australian games industry. This award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the gaming sector over the past five years, spotlighting their talent, innovation, and commitment to advancing the industry. As an Indigenous game developer, Armstrong has become a key figure in the gaming community, not only for his creativity but for his passionate advocacy for First Nations representation in the gaming world. The judges praised him as an unwavering champion of Indigenous involvement both on-screen and in the game development process, highlighting his tireless work in creating pathways for Indigenous people to build careers in this growing industry. Armstrong’s influence extends beyond game development. His active participation in the broader Australian gaming community and his mentorship of emerging developers have been instrumental in shaping a more inclusive and diverse industry. By helping to ensure that Indigenous voices are heard and their stories told, both in front of and behind the screen, Armstrong has left a lasting impact. The Australian Game Developer Awards, held annually, celebrate the creative achievements of developers across the country. Armstrong’s Rising Star Award places him among the industry’s most promising talents, recognizing not just his technical expertise, but also his leadership in promoting a more representative gaming landscape. His recognition adds to the growing list of achievements from Australian developers, proving the country’s reputation as a rising powerhouse in the global gaming scene. Armstrong’s work serves as an inspiration to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous developers, encouraging a more inclusive and creative future for the industry. Stay tuned to 90.1 NBC FM for more updates on local successes and the latest in gaming and technology news! 4o

Mortdale local Nicolas Remy has been recognized with a highly commended award in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Often referred to as the "Oscars" of wildlife photography, the awards are presented annually by London’s Natural History Museum. Nicolas traveled to the UK to attend the event and celebrate his achievement. His award-winning image features a crested hornshark feasting on a Port Jackson shark egg, captured during one of his regular dives at Cabbage Tree Bay, Manly. The image beautifully highlights the hornshark extracting the egg's nutritious yolk from its unique corkscrew-shaped casing. Nicolas shared his thoughts on the recognition, stating, "I've been entering the Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards since 2016, and each year I see more of my images progressing to the finals. Receiving this highly commended award means a lot—it's a great honor." Nicolas’s journey in underwater photography began at Bass Point near Wollongong. After returning to his native France and diving across the Mediterranean, Red Sea, South Africa, and Southeast Asia, he settled back in Australia seven years ago. He now teaches underwater photography and has been recognized in other international competitions, including winning the Conservation Hope category in the 2022 Ocean Photographer of the Year (OPY) awards. In addition to his own photography, Nicolas and his wife Lena have launched the Underwater Club, an online underwater photography school with members from 18 countries. For more on Nicolas and Lena's stunning underwater work, visit nicolaslenaremy.com . Stay tuned to 90.1 NBC FM for more inspiring local stories!

In a rare partnership, a leading business group and unions are joining forces to tackle Australia’s ongoing housing crisis. The Business Council of Australia (BCA) is calling for urgent reforms, including rezoning land and establishing a national fund to boost housing construction. In its newly launched housing report, the BCA highlighted the need for a national reform fund, similar to one from the 1990s, to encourage states to address regulatory and planning bottlenecks that delay housing developments. Bran Black, the BCA’s chief executive, emphasized the critical nature of the issue, stating, "We need all levels of government to act now. This crisis requires immediate solutions." Key recommendations from the BCA include addressing labor and material shortages by attracting skilled migrants and better-trained workers. The council also proposed harmonizing tradie licensing across states, allowing easier mobility for workers. In an unusual alliance, Business NSW and Unions NSW are backing a proposal to build affordable housing on unused Crown land, giving essential workers a chance to secure homes without bearing land costs. Sydney’s soaring rent prices—up nearly 60% since 2020—are adding pressure to families across the region. David Harding, executive director of Business NSW, called the plan a "practical pathway" to ensure long-term housing security for the workers who form the backbone of the community. With Sydney’s housing affordability at crisis levels, the proposal aims to make significant headway in providing homes for those most in need. Meanwhile, the federal opposition has also thrown its hat into the ring, with Michael Sukkar, the opposition housing spokesperson, expressing cautious support for parts of the BCA's plan. However, he stressed the need to focus on reducing migration to free up homes for Australians. This ongoing debate around housing reform, labor shortages, and infrastructure investment is shaping up to be a key issue in the next federal election. Both the government and opposition are under pressure to deliver tangible solutions as housing becomes an increasingly critical issue for communities like ours. For more local news and updates, keep tuning in to 90.1 NBC FM, your voice in the community.

Putt Planet, Miranda's cherished mini-golf centre, officially closed its doors on Sunday night after 14 years of bringing joy to families across the Shire. The African-themed mini-golf course, located on Port Hacking Road, was a unique and inclusive entertainment hub, fully wheelchair accessible, and welcoming to players of all ages and abilities. The centre, designed and built by Wayne and Genelle Griffin along with their three sons, hosted a farewell party on Friday night for over 100 staff, former employees, and volunteers, marking the end of an era. While Putt Planet remained open through the weekend, its final round of mini-golf ended at 10 p.m. on Sunday. Reflecting on the closure, Wayne Griffin shared, "It feels like the right time to finish up. We've loved every moment, but after 14 years, it’s time for a new chapter." The Griffins, who have been there every weekend and school holiday for over a decade, are now looking forward to becoming grandparents and spending more time with family. The couple has secured a tenant for the building, allowing them to move on to new ventures while cherishing the memories they’ve created at Putt Planet. Wayne and Genelle, both teachers, saw a need for a family-friendly recreational facility in the Sutherland Shire. They were inspired by their own mini-golf experiences during holidays and wanted to bring that joy to the local community. Wayne, with his background in designing commercial layouts, mapped out the 18-hole course, while Genelle, drawing on her experience working in Africa, created the vibrant theme that defined the centre. Putt Planet stood out not only for its theme but also for its commitment to accessibility. From the very beginning, it was fully wheelchair accessible, making it one of the few mini-golf courses in Australia—and possibly the world—to offer this level of inclusion. "We wanted to make sure everyone could enjoy the experience together, rather than having some family members left out," Genelle said. This dedication earned the centre recognition, including a Local Business Award from Sutherland Shire Council for Access and Inclusion in 2019. As the Griffins look forward to the future, the Shire says goodbye to a local icon that provided entertainment, joy, and inclusivity for over a decade. For more local stories like this, keep tuning in to 90.1 NBC FM and visit The Leader  for in-depth coverage of community events. 4o

Women are making impressive strides in the $411 million redevelopment of St George Hospital, with over 15% of construction hours contributed by women. This significant project is part of the NSW Government's Infrastructure Skills Legacy Program, focusing on increasing female participation in the construction industry. The program, which embeds officers on-site to attract and up-skill women, has been praised by the National Association of Women in Construction. Women working on the hospital redevelopment hold various roles, from project management to carpentry, showcasing a diverse and talented workforce. The new hospital building is expected to be completed by late 2025, with full refurbishment and landscaping done by 2026. NSW Premier Chris Minns highlighted the importance of such initiatives, saying, "The St George Hospital redevelopment is a model for supporting women in trades." Health Minister Ryan Park echoed the sentiment, noting how vital the contributions of these skilled women are to the success of the project and the community's benefit from a world-class health facility. Emily Taylor, a site engineer who started in the industry at 18, shared her inspiring journey, emphasizing the importance of a supportive work environment. She noted how working alongside a strong female team has been empowering, creating a positive and encouraging atmosphere on-site. Stay tuned to 90.1 NBC FM for more updates on this transformative project and other local news.

With Brisbane on the clock for the 2032 Olympics, the pressure is mounting for whoever wins Queensland’s upcoming election. In 2021, Brisbane became the host city with the longest lead time to prepare for the Games, but three years later, critics argue that the Queensland government may have squandered much of this head start. In March, Premier Steven Miles finally unveiled a highly anticipated infrastructure plan for the Olympics and Paralympics, nearly 1,000 days after Brisbane was awarded the Games. Now, as the October 26 election approaches, there’s a chance that the entire plan may be revised from the ground up. Liberal National Party (LNP) leader David Crisafulli, a frontrunner in the polls, has pledged a 100-day review of the current 2032 Olympic infrastructure plan if elected, criticizing Labor’s decision to host track and field at the aging Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC). Crisafulli’s review could delay the planning process, putting Brisbane on a tighter timeline to finalize a new Olympic blueprint. University of Queensland’s Associate Professor Judith Mair points out that while time is technically on Brisbane’s side, it won’t be for much longer. “We’re nearing the end of the period where major changes can be made,” she says. “Decisions need to happen soon if the Games are going to be a success.” The Miles government has faced backlash for choosing to refurbish existing facilities rather than constructing a new $3.4 billion stadium in Victoria Park. Infrastructure Minister Grace Grace defended this decision, arguing that a new stadium wouldn’t fit within the $7.1 billion Olympic budget. The government has committed to working within the International Olympic Committee’s “new norm,” which emphasizes using existing venues to create more affordable, sustainable Games. Nevertheless, critics have questioned plans to update venues like the Gabba and Suncorp Stadium, which will host the opening and closing ceremonies. An independent review advised that upgrading QSAC would require $1.6 billion but deemed it difficult to justify, especially with substantial transport issues. Brisbane’s Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner estimates an additional $500 million may be needed to improve transport links to the venue, which is located 20 kilometers from the Olympic Village. The current plan would bring QSAC’s seating to 40,000, making it the smallest Olympic track and field stadium since the 1928 Games. The only confirmed new venue for 2032 is the $2.5 billion Brisbane Arena, which will host swimming events thanks to federal funding. The LNP has criticized the QSAC upgrade, saying locals are “embarrassed” by the idea. Crisafulli, however, has yet to clarify his alternative approach, committing only to the 100-day review. LNP sport spokesman Tim Mander has hinted at the possibility of building a new venue, but Crisafulli has suggested that a Gabba upgrade or rebuild could also be part of his plan. Initially, the Miles government planned to demolish and rebuild the Gabba at a cost of $2.7 billion. However, in the face of rising costs of living, they scrapped this plan in favor of refurbishments. Curtin University’s Professor Kirsten Holmes believes that refurbishing existing infrastructure aligns with the IOC’s sustainable approach. “The current proposal to upgrade is in line with the IOC’s ‘new norm,’ which emphasizes cost-effective and sustainable Games,” she explains. Meanwhile, significant transport improvements are also on the agenda. The Brisbane Metro bus service will expand, with 22 new stations proposed as part of a joint initiative by southeast mayors and the state government. Additionally, a direct rail line is being developed to connect Brisbane with the Sunshine Coast, which will host several Olympic events. The first phase of the project, however, is expected to reach only as far as Caloundra by 2032. As the Queensland election draws near, Brisbane’s Olympic future is at a pivotal point. Whether it’s Labor’s vision of revitalized infrastructure or the LNP’s promise of a fresh review, the race is on to ensure the city is ready to shine on the global stage in 2032.