The New South Wales State Life Saving Championships are back at Blacksmiths Beach, and Swansea Belmont Surf Life Saving Club is at the heart of the action! Join us as we chat with Brad Fox, club president, about the four-day junior championships kicking off tomorrow, the Masters and Open events to follow, and how volunteers are making it all happen. From beach barbecues and live entertainment to drones and jet skis keeping competitors safe, this is your guide to a massive celebration of surf life saving. Plus, hear about the club’s Nippers program, fundraising efforts, and how the community comes together to keep everyone safe in the water.

Whether you’re a competitor, parent, or local, get the inside scoop on one of Lake Macquarie’s biggest surf events.

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Technology expert Stephen Fenech from Tech Guide joins Richard to break down the biggest tech stories of the week.

The conversation begins with the unusual police search for the mother of Savannah Guthrie, where authorities are reportedly using Bluetooth signals from a pacemaker and low-flying helicopters to assist in the investigation.

Stephen also discusses new research from Norton revealing how artificial intelligence is reshaping dating and relationships, including the rise of AI chatbots as companions and the growing risks of romance scams powered by AI.

The episode wraps up with a deep dive into the intensifying rumours around a foldable iPhone from Apple, how it could change the smartphone market, and why Samsung is pushing ahead with foldable and tri-fold devices that may soon reach Australia.

A wide-ranging discussion covering cutting-edge tech, AI, cybersecurity, and the future of smartphones.

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Mark Milligan, coach of the Newcastle Jets, sits down to discuss the team's journey this season, the challenges of developing young talent, and the lessons learned from tough matches against teams like Brisbane and Perth Glory. From implementing a new playing system to building confidence in young players, Mark shares insights on leadership, physicality in Australian football, and the importance of fan support. Plus, we preview the Jets’ upcoming clash with Perth Glory and celebrate their recent six-game winning streak and growing crowds at McDonald Jones Stadium.

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Craig Johnston, former Liverpool star, shares his thoughts on the Newcastle Jets’ remarkable rise this season. Drawing on his experience winning league titles and the European Cup, Craig compares the Jets’ journey to Leicester City’s incredible Premier League triumph. He highlights the energy, trust, and teamwork that are driving the young squad to perform beyond expectations. Plus, he reflects on the magic of sport in the community, the turning points that build confidence, and his favorite coffee spots in Newcastle’s East End. A must-listen for football fans and anyone inspired by underdog success stories.

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Housing density is back in the spotlight as New South Wales pushes the message that “the only way to go is up”.
But where, how high, and at what cost to local character?

In this episode, we take a closer look at a controversial apartment proposal for the corner of Darby and Tyrrell Streets in Cook’s Hill, directly opposite the soon-to-open Newcastle Art Gallery. The plan includes two towers of up to 13 and eight storeys and has been declared state significant development.

Community campaigner Jane Dickinson joins the conversation to explain why residents are pushing back. While supportive of more housing and higher density, she argues this site sits in a sensitive cultural precinct and needs a more balanced approach.

The discussion covers building height, planning laws, reduced community consultation timeframes, and concerns about what this development could mean for the future of Derby Street and inner Newcastle.

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Yesterday, the High Court of Australia delivered a landmark ruling finding the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle legally responsible for the sexual abuse of a 13-year-old boy by Father Ronald Picken in Wallsend. The decision overturns an earlier Court of Appeal ruling and establishes a significant precedent for survivor claims across Australia.

In this episode, Richard speaks with Bob O’Toole, founder of the Clergy Abused Network and abuse survivor, about the case, its implications, and what this ruling could mean for other institutional abuse survivors. They discuss vicarious liability, the challenges faced by survivors in seeking justice, and how this decision may influence legal changes in other states.

Bob also shares his perspective on the ongoing support for survivors and the importance of recognition and accountability within institutions. This episode sheds light on a pivotal moment in Australian legal history and the fight for justice for abuse survivors.

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Get the inside scoop on the 2026 NRL season with Laurie Daley. In this episode, we discuss the Newcastle Knights’ upcoming trial against the Bulldogs, their exciting backline, and challenges with squad depth. Laurie also shares his thoughts on the globalization of rugby league, the NRL’s first match in Las Vegas, and fan watch parties across New South Wales. Plus, he gives advice for getting the most out of local club fan hubs and shares hopes for the Raiders this season.

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Join Richard as he chats with IT and gadget expert Stephen Fenech from TechGuide.com.au. This episode covers a wide range of topics from the latest in AI and the alarming rise of students using ChatGPT to complete assignments, to Optus network outages, and new NSW laws cracking down on speeding E-bikes and electric scooters. Stephen also shares his thoughts on sports highlights, including Payne Haas joining the Rabbitohs and Adam Reynolds’ retirement. A lively discussion for tech enthusiasts, sports fans, and anyone curious about how technology is shaping our daily lives.

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In this episode, we explore the ongoing crisis in New Lambton, where 16 families were forced from their homes last May due to a major landslip. Laura Jackel, one of the affected residents, shares the challenges she and her neighbours face, including looting, unsafe properties, and the lack of meaningful support from the New South Wales government.

City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath joins the conversation to discuss the council’s response, including $1.3 million spent on emergency measures, weekly land surveys, and security for the properties. We dive into the geotechnical report that will determine the future of these homes, the hurdles residents face with insurance and rental costs, and the pressing need for government intervention.

This episode highlights the human impact of natural disasters, the complexities of disaster recovery, and the responsibility of local and state authorities.

Key Points:

• 16 families evacuated due to landslip in New Lambton

• NSW government yet to provide meaningful support

• Council has spent over $1.3 million to aid residents

• Geotechnical report underway, determining land safety

• Looting and security challenges in danger zone

• Potential demolition of affected homes

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Laura Jackal opens up about the ongoing struggles faced by her family and 15 others displaced by Newcastle’s floods last May. Looters continue to target their properties, police cannot access the danger zones, and insurance support is nearing its 12-month limit. We explore the tension between residents, council, and the state government, and what the future may hold as demolition looms and hope rests on a key geotechnical report.

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