The Port Macquarie Surf Life Saving Club's carnival last weekend was held in top class surfing weather with the sea marred only by an influx of red weed.

The carnival was of a high standard and was the biggest seen in the area for some time.

Spectators were treated to a day of many spills.

The most outstanding performance was that registered by club captain Fred Middleton, who was successful in the iron man, open ski, beach relay and medley events, with a second in the marathon ski, and a third in Malibu board.

Port Macquarie was successful in the "A" boat race, and the junior team was second in the junior race after being involved in a bad collision which holed the boat.

Port Macquarie's Observatory

A sanctuary from earthly cares and frustrations is the town's unique observatory which at present opens its doors to visitors on three evenings a week.

Within its dome and walls is a world apart - a veritable feast of astronomical information which virtually helps to "open the heavens" to inquiring minds.

The observatory's 10 inch and five inch telescopes are also capable of carrying one's thoughts countless thousands of light years away to stars and planets which one never knew existed.

After watching the spirit of pioneering activities of the Historical Society and the Players' Club, one can only but come to the conclusion that Port Macquarie bred a particular type of person who cares about the good things in life and is prepared to work hard for them.

One such person is 82 year-old Albert York, Port Macquarie's own self-made "astronomer royal" who, from humble beginnings, has managed to build an association of stargazers, moon watchers and planet probers with all the facilities of a sophisticated city.

In spite of his octogenarian years, he is now as sprightly in thought as a teenage student, particularly when it comes to explaining the intricacies of earth's space launches and their bearing on our galaxy.

Hibbard Progress Association

The Hibbard Progress Association now has its own headquarters which it shares with the local arts society.

Situated on Hastings River Drive, the building is known as Hamilton House.

The former school has been turned over to the two organisations. The Progress Association is seeking construction of more culverts to drain the flood-prone area.

Recently it took the only culvert on Hastings River Drive 22 hours to clear floodwaters from the southern side of the road.

Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can continue to access our trusted content: