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NovoNews

ISSUE 003 MAY 2021

School Strike 4 Climate

Schematic designs for the $780M expansion of the John Hunter Hospital and John Hunter Children’s Hospital were revealed by Health Minister Brad Hazzard on May 25... See page 3

NovoCulture

In celebration of World Bee Day on Thursday, May 20, passionate bee advocates came together and raised money and awareness for one of the most important pollinators on the planet.

See page 9

School students protest at School Strike 4 Climate

NovoBusiness

Newcastle City Budget to fund over 300 local projects The Hunter Disability Expo was in Newcastle from Friday, May 21, where 130 exhibitors helped to connect people with disabilities to much-needed services. See page 8

NovoSociety

A part of the City’s 2021/2022 Budget, Newcastle will see an investment of $330M over the next 12 months, with more than 300 projects and $90.4M in upgrades and community infrastructure. Improved footpaths, new cycleways, and stormwater upgrades to reduce flooding are among the projects under the Budget which has received strong support from the community. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Budget focused on providing real benefits for the community in their everyday lives. “Whether it’s more shade on our streets and parks with $1 million to maintain and plant new trees or making it easier for people to get around Newcastle with $2.8 million for new cycleways,” Cr Nelmes said. “We’re investing $13.7 million to improve and maintain our roads, bridges and pathways we manage on behalf of the community, while $7.7 million will be invested into projects to address

localised flooding and improve stormwater systems.” Cr Nelmes said there was $9.1M for parks, playgrounds, sporting, and aquatic facilities, which included $4M towards the Newcastle Ocean Baths Stage 1 upgrades. “City of Newcastle’s 2021/22 Budget is a commitment to providing the services that make our city an attractive and inclusive place to live and work, now and into the future.” City of Newcastle CEO Jeremy Bath said a vital focus of the Budget was to continue on the path of financial sustainability and deliver the essential services expected of local government. “We’re building on six years of stable and consistent Budgets that have protected services and local jobs, and we will continue to carefully balance the needs of our community with the demands of good financial governance,” Bath said. “This is so we can continue to support Newcastle as it prepares for its population to hit 200,000 over the next 20 years.”

Other highlights of the Budget include $11M for waste management, $10.5M for environmental and sustainability projects, $2M towards the expansion of the Newcastle Art Gallery, $5M on transport and $8.1M for urban centre renewals. Some of those urban developments include the East End Public Domain Plan, Wallsend and Orchardtown Road (New Lambton) local centre upgrades, and the Wickham Masterplan.

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Newcastle Airport goes international

$66M has been committed to the Newcastle Airport’s runway upgrade, which will accommodate wide-bodied aircrafts and bring the airport’s runway to international standards, directly connecting the Hunter region to countries worldwide. Prime Minister Scott Morrison visited the Newcastle Airport on Friday, May 7, to announce the funding and upgrades which are a part of the Federal Budget. “Here in Newcastle, it’s an exciting day, $66 million will be announced in the budget on Tuesday night by the Treasurer to invest in widening the runway here, and various other works at Newcastle Airport,” Morrison said. “This will ensure that we can take larger flights and can back the future of the Hunter and its considerable potential that it has.

“It’s a 7.5-metre extension on either side of the runway, which will allow twinaisle planes to land, such as the Boeing 787, Boeing 777 and Airbus 8350; these aircrafts can carry between 251 and 382 people.” The upgrade works will allow widebodied, long-haul aircrafts to fly in and out of Williamtown, connecting the rest of the world to the people and businesses of the Hunter, Central Coast and northern NSW. Newcastle Airport CEO Dr Peter Cock said the upgrade was a game-changer for the region. “I want to thank the Prime Minister and the Federal Government for the confidence and trust they have shown in our airport and the region more generally,” Cock said. “Now we can focus on the potential that this infrastructure upgrade will unleash; it will permanently change our

Novo News is published monthly by Community News Partners Pty Ltd (CNP), an independent, family-owned business. CNP aims to serve the interests of the community in three important ways: 1. To fulfill the ultimate purpose of the free press in a democracy, that is, to hold powerful interests to account through high-quality, independent journalism without fear or prejudice; 2. To provide an affordable medium for local businesses to advertise their products and services, including discounted rates for eligible not-for-profit organisations; and, 3. To keep the community informed about local issues and ensure important public notices are available to ALL members of the community irrespective of their socio-economic circumstances. Our content is originated through both our own team of local journalists as well as external sources, including media releases, websites and public notices. All our news content is subject to strict editorial standards which are available on our website. Wherever possible, our news includes source lines that provide information about where information was sourced so that readers can judge for themselves the veracity of what they are reading. All requests for advertising should be directed to editorial@novonews.com.au. Advertising rates are impacted by three key things: – the size of the advertisement, e.g. a halfpage or a one-quarter page; the number of editions that the advertisement runs; and the number of newspapers (one, two or three) in which the advertisement is run. NovoNnews offers significant discounts for advertisements that run over multiple editions and across multiple newspapers – see novonews.com.au We also offer discounts for not-for-profit organisations and other community groups. Advertisers are invited to talk to us about becoming a DIGITAL PARTNER, which provides exclusive opportunities to promote your product, services or events on our digital platform as well. If you would like to be a DIGITAL PARTNER please email us at editorial@novonews.com.au

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region for the better in so many ways. “Of course, it will offer convenience for travellers from our region who want to fly internationally, but more importantly, it will drive huge, sustainable economic benefits into the whole of northern NSW. “It is truly a nation-building project.” The airport project is expected to create 4500 jobs and generate an estimated $12.7B in economic benefits through international airfreight, industrial expansion, and stimulation of the visitor economy. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the project would provide a vital boost for Newcastle and the wider region during the next two decades. “Today’s announcement is fantastic news for the City of Newcastle and the broader region, following ongoing advocacy to bring our airport’s runway

up to international standard,” Cr Nelmes said. “Newcastle Airport plays a key role in our city’s ongoing transition from a great regional centre to an emerging global city, connecting our local communities with family, friends and colleagues across the nation and around the globe. “Upgrading the runway to international standard will allow us to build on the attractiveness of this region as an international destination, while also providing direct connections around the world for local travellers.” Newcastle Airport is jointly owned by the City of Newcastle and Port Stephens Council, with the runway upgrades due to commence in June 2021 and will be completed in early 2023. Hayley McMahon

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P3 Designs unveiled for $780M John Hunter Hospital upgrade novonews.com.au

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Schematic designs for the $780M expansion of the John Hunter Hospital and John Hunter Children’s Hospital were revealed by Health Minister Brad Hazzard on May 25, with a new seven-storey Acute Services Building to completely transform health care for the entire region. The NSW Government’s John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct project will deliver a broad range of services with a 60 per cent increase in Intensive Care Unit capacity and almost 50 per cent more theatres. Hazzard visited the John Hunter Hospital on Tuesday to unveil the completed plans and thanked health service staff, clinical experts, community members and local groups for their contribution to the designs. “This world-class health precinct will not only significantly enhance capacity for clinical care and collaboration between the health, research and education sectors but be a key driver of economic growth in the region,” Hazzard said. “The cleverly designed Acute

Photo: John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct

Services Building will house cuttingedge technology, enabling John Hunter’s incredible staff to continue to deliver exemplary health care to the greater Newcastle, Hunter New England and northern NSW regions.” The schematic designs show the upgrades in greater detail, displaying each clinical service area’s internal and external layouts, providing staff, clinicians, and stakeholders a better understanding of what the new precinct will look like and how departments will connect.

Putting the patients front and centre, the designs show large windows for more natural light, green spaces, and quiet zones, making hospital stays as comfortable as possible. The new Acute Services Building will include a new Emergency Department, critical care services (adult and paediatric), operating theatres, interventional suites, imaging services, a birthing suite, an inpatient maternity unit, neonatal intensive care and a special care

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nursery. Other upgrades include a new entrance canopy, improved drop off zones, a rooftop helipad, increased car parking capacity, improvements to the internal road network, and a link bridge to connect the new building to Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI). The project is part of the NSW Government’s $10.7B investment in health infrastructure to 2024, with a third of the funding going towards regional and rural health facilities. Redevelopments of the John Hunter Hospital campus joins other projects in surrounding regions, including the $470M new Maitland Hospital, $60M Inverell Hospital Redevelopment, and the $100M Manning Hospital Redevelopment. The designs have been lodged with the Department of Planning Industry and Environment and will soon be exhibited on the Department’s website for public feedback. Works will commence next year, with a completion date expected in 2026. Information source: Media releases, May 25, NSW Government

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School Strike 4 Climate

Rain, hail or shine; hundreds of local school students and other community members battled the cold pouring rain and demanded climate justice at the ‘School Strike 4 Climate’ at Civic Park on Friday, May 21. The strike was the fourth one held in Newcastle and joined thousands of other climate school strikes across Australia. School Strike 4 Climate Australia organised the protest in response to “the Morrison Governments continued supported of a gasfuelled economy”. Many youth representatives from local schools, climate change groups and community organisations spoke to the cheering crowd, including Save our Coast Student Representative Asha Niddrie and Newcastle East Public School student Heath Bailey-Hepburn. “I am here today because our politicians are destroying our future,” Heath said. “I may only be 11, but I have already seen our skies turn red from bushfires last summer. “I have already seen my favourite river turn bone dry, and there is much worse to come if we don’t stop burning fossil fuels.” Amongst the students was also NSW Teachers Federation representative Jack Galvin Waight, who said he was truly inspired and proud of the student’s efforts. “I would like to acknowledge all of you, for this amazing work you are truly inspiring, you should be really proud of yourselves—I want to make one point really clear, on behalf of the NSW Teachers Federation, on behalf of 60,000 teachers across the

state, we support the students right to strike,” Waight said. “We stand with you today, and we will stand with you in the future until we achieve climate justice. “Enough is enough; every year our government does not take action on climate change, every year our government subsidies the fossil fuel industry, we should be investing in renewables, for our future, for your future.” Co-convenor of the Maitland Greens and youngest candidate to run for a seat on Maitland City Council, Campbell Knox, focused his speech on the proposed gasfired power station planned for Kurri Kurri. “A report by the Sydney Morning Herald found that the gas plant in Kurri Kurri will only employ ten fulltime workers and operate for only 2% of the year,” Knox said. “Locals are staunchly opposed to this plant because they’ve realised it’s a reckless waste of public money, providing a push up of power prices, damaging farmland and worsening the impacts of climate change. “There is no future, job opportunity or community growth in the fossil fuel industry.” The Federal Budget, which was revealed in early May, saw a controversial plan to build a $600M new gas-fired power station in Kurri Kurri, located in the Hunter Valley. According to Political Editor Phillip Coorey at the Financial Review, the power station would be built by the government-owned corporation Snowy Hydro Limited and be listed as a cash-for-asset transfer, having no impact on the budget bottom line.

The idea was first mentioned last year by Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who said that NSW power prices could rise by 30 per cent if energy companies did not fill the gap left by the 2023 closure of the Liddell Power Station in Muswellbrook. The government also said the new project would create 600 jobs in the region and secure reliable and affordable energy for NSW. With a focus on gas-led recoveries and low emission technologies, a Federal Budget loser this year was renewable energy with no new direct funding in place, except for a $30M battery and microgrid project between Katherine and Darwin in the Northern Territory. According to ABC News, “...the government’s putting $643.4 million over the next four years into low emissions technologies, including $539 million in funding for two ‘clean’ energy schemes...”. These schemes include $275M funded towards four more hydrogen hubs and $237M for carbon capture and storage projects. Commenting on both projects, the Climate Council and The Australia Institute are concerned that hydrogen will still contribute to emissions if it is not produced using entirely renewable power. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), to achieve global net-zero emissions by 2050, a complete transformation of energy systems that underpin our economy is required immediately. IEA released a world-first comprehensive energy roadmap that shows the required government actions needed to boost clean energy, reduce fossil fuels, create

jobs, lift economic growth, and keep the net-zero emission goal in reach. Along with funding for low emission technologies revealed in the Federal Budget, a $100M ocean protection package was announced. The investment would help to manage ocean habitats and coastal environments, contributing to the global task of reducing emissions and “...target ‘blue carbon’ ecosystems that involve seagrass and mangroves playing a key role in drawing carbon out of the atmosphere...”. “This investment is a major contribution to domestic and international efforts to build healthier oceans and combat climate change,” Prime Minister Scott Morrison said. “Our oceans are part of our national identity and critical to the daily lives of millions of Australians. “Around 85 per cent of our population lives within 50 kilometres of the coast, so every Australian understands the vital role our oceans play. “This investment will boost the seagrass and mangroves that will help cut emissions, and it’ll mean cleaner beaches, lower fisheries bycatch, more fish stocks, better protection for turtles and seabirds, and help for coastal and Indigenous communities reliant on the ocean for their livelihoods.” This ocean protection package comes as the contentiously debated PEP 11 proposal still continues, which sees a plan for an established gas and oil industry off the NSW coast. Hayley McMahon

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MAY 2021 ISSUE 003

500 locals say “PEP OFF!” to PEP11

In protest against oil and gas exploration along the Newcastle coast, a 500 strong crowd paddled out at Nobbys Beach on May 1 and told PEP11 to “PEP OFF”. Surfrider Foundation and Save Our Coast organised the ‘Stop PEP11 Paddle Out’ in response to the Federal Government’s plans to establish a gas and oil industry stretching 4500 square kilometres from Port Stephens to Sydney. After hosting two successful paddle outs at the Northern Beaches and Central Coast, National Campaign Director for Surfrider Foundation, Damien Cole was ecstatic with the Newcastle turn out. “It was incredible to be a part of such an electrifying paddle out, with hundreds of locals from all walks of life standing together in opposition to this ridiculous and potentially disastrous project off the coast of NSW,” Cole said. “It has been a challenging issue to get into the community; many people are still unaware of it, so this is a significant awareness-raising exercise. “We are asking people to spread this news, let their friends know that this issue is an imminent threat and is right on their doorstep. “We are also hoping as this campaign gains momentum that it starts to put pressure on Minister Pitt and the entire Morrison Government, letting them know that our coastal community will not stand for this.” Save Our Coast Student Representative Asha Niddrie said it was essential that the community’s universal plea was heard. “I speak for myself and for the youth of today—we want leaders who are in charge of our future, and our children’s future to make sure

that industrialisation of our coast does not happen,” Niddrie said. “We need our leaders to look after our environment and the places that we love, like our beaches and our beautiful coastline.” Community organisations have been campaigning against the PEP11 proposal since 2018 and saw the Federal Parliament debate over the renewal of the licence in February this year. The licence held by Advent Energy, which is now expired, remains in place until a formal decision has been made by Federal Minister for Resources Keith Pitt, sparking concerns amongst the community that the potential for gas exploration was still on the cards. Campaigners cautiously celebrated the Prime Minister’s opposition to PEP11 in March, who then reaffirmed his position on April 21. “I think I made it pretty clear what my Government’s view was about that (PEP11),” Morrison said. “I mean, that will go through processes, but I’ve made it absolutely crystal clear that that’s not something I support, and you can expect my

Photo: Nicholas Klynsmith @hyperventilating_eyes

view on that to be rock solid.” State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said many local, state, and federal members were against the PEP11 exploration licence, including Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon and Federal Member for Shortland Pat Conroy. “The Prime Minister confirmed that he does not support the renewal of the PEP-11 exploration licence along the coast from Newcastle to Sydney,” Crakanthorp said. “He joins…tens of thousands of community members who have made it clear that we do not want gas exploration off our coast. “I’m not sure how much more feedback Minister Pitt needs to be able to deny an extension of PEP-11. “Our oceans are precious, and I find it extraordinary that this proposal is even on the table.” Cole said it was a step in the right direction to have many stand against the issue, but words meant nothing if actions were not to follow. “Until we see this in black and white that PEP11 has been cancelled, we will keep these paddle outs going

and keep raising awareness within our community,” Cole said. “Unfortunately, as we have seen in politics time and time again, words can sometimes lead to nothing; we really want to see action on what has been said. “Our campaign strategy will change depending on what happens with the PEP11 decision in the next coming months. “But man, are we ready to roll; we can keep doing these paddle outs week in and week out until PEP11 has been cancelled for good.” During an ABC Q+A discussion on April 22, Minister Pitt said he was cautious with commenting on PEP11 as it directly impacted the share prices of ASX (Australian Stock Exchange) listed companies. Pitt said the petroleum exploration permit was managed through the regulator he was responsible for called NOPTA (National Offshore Petroleum Titles Administrator). “This is a proposal that is longstanding for an extension of an existing permit off the NSW coast, the area is about 4000 kilometres, and if there was to be an exploration well, it’s about the size of a kitchen table,” Pitt said. “This is an industry which has been in place in Australia for more than five decades; I make decisions on petroleum exploration permits regularly, two, three, four times a year, right around the country. “It’s an important part not only of our economy but for fuel security. “For me, when I make a decision, it will be balanced, based on the facts provided, the advice that I have, what is in the application, and what the law says.” Hayley McMahon

Photo: Shane Blue

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Newcastle City Budget to fund over 300 local projects

From page 1 An Economic Development Strategy will also be adopted with programs designed to upskill residents and help create local innovation ecosystems attracting people with new ideas to the city and helping grow new and existing businesses. Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said a skilled and diverse labour supply is critical for Newcastle to be economically competitive. “The announcement of funding

for the upgrade of Newcastle Airport for international flights is just the beginning, as a region, we need to invest in developing our businesses and people to create services and products that we can export to international markets,” Cr Clausen said. “We’ve taken a comprehensive evidence-driven approach to developing our Economic Development Strategy, which tells us that by investing in people, their skills, and networks, we can drive innovation and creativity, which leads to increased confidence, new

businesses and importantly, new jobs.” The new strategy will complement recent training and talent attraction programs, including New Skills, which provides subsidised training opportunities, and the New Move relocation program, which incentivises 30 new communityminded entrepreneurs to move to Newcastle. Independent Councillor for Ward 1 John Church expressed some frustration with the Budget, with a forecast deficit of more than $20M

and drawing down on the council’s reserves. “Costs such as the $60,000 per week rent on the administration building in Newcastle West remain locked in, as do escalating staffing costs,” Clr Church said. “It is good to see next year’s budget return to a modest surplus, achieved by cutting about $25M out of the capital works budget.” For readers interested in the detailed Budget overview, visit the City of Newcastle’s website. Hayley McMahon

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What does the Federal Budget mean for Newcastle? Record levels of debt-funded public spending is the singular standout feature of this year’s Federal Budget. Federal government debt is fast approaching a staggering one trillion dollars (that’s one million million or $1,000,000,000,000). For Newcastle, the previously announced airport infrastructure upgrade and a brand new gas-fired power plant are the big-ticket items. Yet, it is the plethora of programs that seek to plug the holes emerging from our COVID era society that will likely affect Novocastrians the most. Big budget posts for aged care, mental health, childcare, and tax cuts for income earners have been slated by Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Economics professor Bill Mitchell from the University of Newcastle praised the social program spending to assist the population adjust, although pointed to a lost opportunity saying to ABC radio: “I would have much preferred them to make some big structural changes rather than going back to relying on

Photo: Newcastle Airport

us just spending more than we can afford and running up more household debt.” Federal Shortland MP Pat Conroy (Labor) also welcomed the additional social spending though lamented the shotgun nature of the budget. “It really is a hodgepodge of

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announcements rather than a coherent plan on how to build a better Australia,” he said. Federal Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon (Labor) criticised the lack of action on social housing. “This budget does nothing to address the housing crisis Australia

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is facing and the fundamental lack of affordable homes,” Claydon said. “There are announcements like the Family Home Guarantee to help single parents buy a house, but this will only help 2500 of the 1 million single parents each year, with the government only investing a measly $300,000. “There are more than 1,200 applications just for social housing in Newcastle—that’s just public housing. “We then have the private rental markets which showed last year that there were zero properties available in the Newcastle area for anybody on unemployment benefits. “The level of unmet need is enormous, and this is what’s so unforgivable for the federal government; their COVID-19 Recovery Response did not include the building of new social housing stock.” With 2021 becoming a likely election year, we can expect a raft of spending announcements soon as the big parties’ wrestle for parliamentary power. NN Editor

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Hunter Disability Expo

Hunter Disability Expo 2021 Photo: Nextt - Disability & Mental Health Support Services

The Hunter Disability Expo was in Newcastle from Friday, May 21, where 130 exhibitors helped to connect people with disabilities to much-needed services. Organised by Social Impact Institute and held at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, the free expo ran from Friday, May 21 to Saturday, May 22, with several thousand people attending over the two days. Social Impact Institute Senior Adviser Kathryn Carey said the expo was a one-stop shop where vital providers met with clients and talked through services available under the NDIS. “This is a very important event; when people come to a disability expo, they need to be talking to service providers and product providers that are local to their area, so they know what services are available to them,” Carey said. “Attendance this year was double what we had in 2018, so it just goes to show the demand for an expo like this is really high. She said over the two days; the schedule was jam-packed with different disability services and exhibitors as well as stage presentations, performances, roving entertainers and even a horse therapy group. Attendees saw a vast range of exhibitors, including equipment and assistive technology providers, allied health providers, financial and legal services, employment services, housing experts, social and leisure activities, transport services, government agencies, and advocacy groups. The main presentation stage had a complete program of speakers and entertainment, including a performance by visually impaired

classical singer Kirsten Busby. Other presentations included speakers from NDIS, autism support groups, specialist disability accommodation and occupational therapy providers. The expo also had guest appearances from State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon, and Hunter Disability Expo Ambassador Nathan Basha. Nathan Basha said he loved using his passion for societal change to help raise awareness for disability

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Hunter Disability Expo Ambassador Nathan Basha, and Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon Photo: State MP Tim Crakanthorp Facebook

along and see what’s out there and what could help them achieve their goals. “It also provides a platform for conversation and discussion into the industry itself and the role employment plays for people with disabilities—a topic I touched on in my opening address. “People had the opportunity to speak to people face-to-face, to ask questions and to have different options with who they engage and interact with.” Basha said it was important that

Photo: Newcastle and Hunter Community Health

inclusion and equal opportunity for all. “The ultimate goal for humanity, of course, is that one day the word inclusion will not need to be used in the context of people because everyone should be seen as equal,” Basha said. “Events like these are good opportunities for people to come

society did not put people in boxes and that everyone was recognised for their unique potential and strengths. “We need to look at the strengths in people with disability in the same way you would look at the strengths of a non-disabled person,” he said. “I can’t think of anything more valuable than the experience that

the Hunter Disability Expo offers. “It provides a platform and an opportunity for people just like myself to be educated and celebrated.” Basha said that he might happen to have Down syndrome, but that did not define him or who he was. As a motivational speaker, actor, filmmaker, and for the past 11 years office assistant at NOVA 96.9 and Smooth FM, Basha said he was living the dream. “My childhood was pretty ordinary and typical of any other child, but it didn’t start that way,” he said. “Can you believe when I was born, there were low expectations of me? “The delivery doctor said to my parents, ‘I think your baby has Down syndrome, you have three options, you can institutionalise him, adopt him out, or take him home’, how can someone categorise a life like that?” Basha said his parents did everything they could to make his life as ordinary as possible. “The vision that was held for me by my family from birth was to live a life full of the same opportunities as my two younger brothers,” he said. “So, growing up, I did ordinary typical things such as attending a mainstream primary and high school, having a job, attending university, being a filmmaker, travelling the world, having friends and living in my own home.” Basha’s motivational speaking and advocacy for inclusion has taken him across the world, where he’s spoken at international conferences, political forums, universities, and community groups, sharing his insights into what happens when people live their lives to the fullest. Hayley McMahon

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Buzzing for World Bee Day

(L-R) Patrice Newell and Dani Lloyd-Prichard at the World Bee Day Honey Experience and Bee Therapy Podcast Launch

In celebration of World Bee Day on Thursday, May 20, passionate bee advocates came together and raised money and awareness for one of the most important pollinators on the planet. Community members were invited to celebrate the bees and attend the World Bee Day Honey Experience and Bee Therapy Podcast Launch at The Beehive Honeysuckle on Thursday, May 20. The new Bee Therapy podcast is co-hosted by bee-buddies Dani Lloyd-Prichard and Patrice Newell, who decided to launch their podcast in perfect time for World Bee Day. The pair are both Australian registered beekeepers and have over 50 years of bee knowledge and experience between them. Podcast co-host and professional beekeeper Dani Lloyd-Prichard is also a bee advocate, educator, researcher, and business owner of Time to Bee, a beekeeping and beecology guidance consultancy. Lloyd-Prichard said the event was organised to help officially launch

their podcast but to also inform and inspire other locals over the importance of bees. “We have world days for everything, so why not the bees,” she said. “They are just so unique and one of the most important pollinators on the planet; we need them if we are going to survive, we need bees! “If we all did a small part in helping the bees, it would make such a difference; raising awareness over the significance of bees to our ecosystem, our health, our food, and our biodiversity is so critical.” Food and honey themed treats were all supplied by The Beehive Honeysuckle café, which LloydPrichard said was not entirely vegan, but was what she liked to call ‘beegan’. The event consisted of lots of beethemed activities, including games, bee trivia and a honey tasting competition which saw participants guess which region of the Hunter Valley the honey was from. The honey experience also raised funds to support Bee Day Australia’s ‘Plant Three for the Bees’ program, encouraging people to order bee-

Dani Lloyd-Prichard with an open hive

friendly seeds when planting flowers in gardens and pots. Lloyd-Prichard said many factors affected the richness and diversity of bees, including mass land clearing, pesticides, and insecticides. “If people can connect on any level with this little insect, it’s going to show them the much bigger picture and the impacts they are having on the planet,” she said. “As we have seen with the pandemic, mother earth is constantly slapping us, trying to get us to wake up and show us that we are not immune to these problems.” Lloyd-Prichard met author and biodynamic farmer Patrice Newell at the University of Newcastle, where they instantly became friends. “We are long time beekeepers of European Honeybees, and for me in particular, I have a background in education where I ran the Tocal College Certificate III in Beekeeping up until the end of 2019, and before that, I conducted and published bee research at the University of Newcastle. “That aside, Patrice and I have been bee-buddies for years after

meeting at the university while Patrice was studying her PhD.” Talking for hours, the two would share their experiences and stories over bees, beehives, and the delicious recipes they had created using their honey produce. At the end of last year, Newell suggested that the pair record their conversations and start a beethemed podcast. “When Patrice suggested the podcast, I was a little nervous because it was something that I had never done before, but, thankfully, it has worked out really well,” LloydPrichard said. “We are finding it easy to create episodes using our combined general knowledge, experience and interests. “The episodes have a little bit of everything from fact and fun to some good recipes, stories, and even book and film reviews!” Bee Therapy is now available on all streaming platforms, including Spotify, Audible and Google Podcasts. Hayley McMahon

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Newy welcomes 150 new Novocastrians The City of Newcastle welcomed 150 new citizens from 39 different countries in a COVID-19 safe ceremony at the Civic Theatre on April 28.

Sahlee Cook and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes

From the United Kingdom to the USA, India and Afghanistan, the newest Novocastrians pledged to Australia in the first face-to-face ceremony since the Department of Home Affairs moved to online ceremonies due to the pandemic. Newest Newcastle citizen, Sahlee Cook, met her now-husband, Adam, in the Philippines, where they chose to move to his hometown of Newcastle to build a life together. “Aside from the beautiful beaches, lots of cafes to choose from and different variety of restaurants, what I like most is the people,” Cook said. “The people here in Newcastle are nice, helpful, and pretty laid back. “I am grateful and beyond happy

to finally be an Australian citizen. “Australia is such a beautiful and amazing country, so I am honoured to be part of this great nation and to live in Newcastle.” Presiding over the ceremony was Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen. Cr Nelmes said she had looked forward to welcoming Australia’s newest citizens in person once again. “City of Newcastle has worked closely with the Department of Home Affairs to safely resume faceto-face ceremonies to allow conferees to come together and celebrate one of the most special days in their lives,” she said. “As Novocastrians, we are proud to be part of such a culturally diverse, inclusive community, and we welcome people of all backgrounds.” Information source: Media release, Apr 29, City of Newcastle

DigiLab to preserve and share Newcastle’s stories A high tech digitisation lab (DigiLab) has been officially launched at Newcastle Library, where rare and fragile items dating back to the early 1800s can now be digitally preserved for future generations. The $400,000 DigiLab will feature cutting-edge equipment, 3D scanning instruments, and robotic page turners, converting 2,500 pages an hour into digital information. Co-funded through the City of Newcastle’s works program and an $85,000 Metropolitan Public Library Grant from the State Library of NSW, the DigiLab will enable the City to preserve thousands of rare and ageing items. Councillor Carol Duncan said the DigiLab was able to preserve archival records, photographs, maps, pictures, newspapers, and rare books which documented the story of Newcastle and the Hunter Region. “Collecting, preserving, and sharing our local history and cultural identity is a key pillar for our Library Service and aligns with the objectives of our Community Strategic Plan 2030,” Cr Duncan said. “The Library History and Heritage Collection encompasses more than 440,000 items, with some of these collections dating back to the early 1800s and featuring rare, unique

City of Newcastle Manager Libraries and Learning Suzie Gately, City of Newcastle Heritage Collections Digitisation Specialist Kerrie Shaw, State Library of NSW Manager of Public Library Services Cameron Morley and Councillor Carol Duncan in the newly opened DigiLab

and notable items. “As the custodians of the City’s archives, we look forward to being able to preserve the many ageing records we look after thanks to the assistance of the State Library of NSW grant and our own significant investment.” Cr Duncan said they looked forward to opening the service to customers after successfully digitising the City’s records. One part of the DigiLab available for community use is the MemoryLab, which allows people to preserve

their histories by converting family items on VHS, VHS-C cassette, and 8mm video camera tapes into digital files for free. Manager Libraries and Learning, Suzie Gately, said the DigiLab supported researchers and inspired local creatives to present local history differently. “The DigiLab will provide rich, high-quality content for both physical exhibitions as well as augmented and virtual reality, allowing us to tell Newcastle’s stories in new and innovative ways,” Ms

Gately said. “We will also be able to integrate this output with the technologies on offer at our Digital Library at 12 Stewart Avenue, including the eight metre-wide Digital Storywall and the digital multimedia ‘Magic Box’, which is only the second of its kind in Australia.” To make a booking for the MemoryLab, contact Newcastle Library or visit their website for more details. Information source: Media release, May 14, City of Newcastle

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Hunter’s Innovation Festival Novocastrians put their thinking caps on for the Hunter Innovation Festival which ran from May 3 to May 16, with more than 40 events inspiring, educating, and promoting a culture of innovation within the community. Organised by Hunter iF, in collaboration with the City of Newcastle, the innovation festival had a range of activities, including interactive workshops, information sessions, tech play, tours of local businesses, and inspirational talks. Long-time supporter of the festival is the University of Newcastle which has played an integral role in connecting emerging and experienced innovators through events and ‘Startup Stories’. Senior Manager of I2N (University of Newcastle’s Integrated Innovation Network), Siobhan Curran, said innovation was the key to solving today’s current challenges. “The best kind of innovation brings people together for a common good—which is exactly what we’ll need to overcome some of the most pressing challenges of our time.” With the theme ‘Innovate to Regenerate’, the festival brought some top academics, scientists, and well-known figures to the city, including a free IQ Talk with Dr Karl

The Four Winds

Author: Kristin Hannah Publisher: Macmillan

Elsa Wolcott, grew up with health problems and as such was confined to her room with books being her only friends. She was not as attractive as her other two sisters; she was plain and too tall. Her mother made it known that she didn’t fit in. She grew up knowing she didn’t fit in. She grew up unloved. But here it is, her 25th birthday, and after her idea of going to college has been rejected by her parents, she is going to do something different. It is 1921 in Texas and things are booming. Her father owns a profitable tractor supply company and the family are well respected

Hunter Innovation Festival 2019 -Building Blocks for Innovative Inclusive Design Photo: Hunter Innovation Festival

Kruszelnicki at the Civic Theatre, on May 8. Famous for his weekly radio shows,

television appearances, and 45 published books, Dr Karl discussed his career and the value of

demonstrating applied innovation when convincing people of what is possible. A panel of local innovators joined Dr Karl as they explored the importance of applied innovation across a broad spectrum of fields, the barriers of participating in innovation, and why Newcastle was chosen to base their innovation practice. Festival Coordinator Claire Quigley said they were happy to deliver a festival that made innovation accessible and created connectivity across the community, business, industry, government, and education. “The Hunter is the leading regional economy in Australia, and in order to maintain that position, we need opportunities to connect people, ideas and capabilities to continue fostering innovation,” she said. “With such a passionate, dedicated team of sponsors and volunteers, we are confident that the Innovation Festival brought short and longterm gains to the entire Hunter Region.” Quigley said the live events reached communities across a large part of the Hunter, including Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Cessnock and even Scone. Hayley McMahon

Book Review members of town. Elsa comes across some red silk and makes herself a dress. She looks pretty good, even she must admit that, but her father forbids her to leave the house looking like a “harlot”. Elsa runs out before they can catch her. While wondering into town, searching for the speak easy she meets up with the handsome, Raffaello “Rafe” Martinelli, who is a few years younger than her. They have fun – first time fun for both of them. The two continue to meet secretly, until Elsa gets in trouble. Elsa’s family disown her and send her to live with the Rafe and his parents on their sprawling farm. Elsa ends up having two children and works hard on the farm. She works hard to be a good wife. she works hard to be a good mother. Rafe has dreams, big dreams

that have nothing to do with being a farmer. He was set for college but had to give that up to help raise his family. He shares these dreams with his daughter, Loreda and she starts to feel that it is Elsa that is holding the family back from living a bigger life. The years go by and times on the land get tough. The Martinelli’s farm was thriving but drought and a recession have put a stop to that. No rain means no crops which mean no money.

The government blames the farmers for the state of the land. The constant dust storms affect the health of Elsa’s young son. California, on the other hand, is the land of Milk and Honey. So, after years of hoping and praying for rain the family gives in and joins the convoy of the other thousands of families that hope life will be better in California. But dreams are dashed when they find out that California doesn’t want them. Labour is cheap, and it is impossible for a person to earn a liveable wage. The Four Winds is a story about hope and strength and love. Anyone familiar with Grapes of Wrath will recognise the hardships experienced by the Martinelli’s. At times it is downright depressing. Big businesses rule and are in the pockets of the government.

No one stands up for the little man. The American dream is truly dead. It is the fourth book by Kristin Hannah I have read, the other three being The Nightingale, The Great Alone and Winter Garden. The Nightingale and The Great Alone were excellent, Winter Garden less so. The Four Winds in my view is right up there, and definitely worth a read. Kim Reardon The Reluctant Book Critic

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CREATING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Plug into the power of extra mortgage payments WITH

Julia NEWBOULD Editor-at-large • Money magazine There is nothing more rewarding than knowing you are on top of your mortgage. Your home, for most people, is likely the biggest purchase you’ll make in your life, next to your car. This has become even more so in recent years. When I bought my first property, the ratio of the cost of my house relative to my junior salary then was five to one. Today, my niece has to contend with an almost 12 to 1 ratio for an average unit in a suburb in northern Sydney ($920,000) versus her salary as a primary school teacher. With average property prices likely to hover around $1 million in the capital cities, it’s become even more compelling to pay off your home loan sooner. Everyone knows that making extra repayments can save you money, but when it’s an abstract idea it kind of floats in the ether and you don’t really do anything about it.

But if you play with the numbers, the transformative effect of setting extra money aside each week towards your home loan becomes real. For example, if my niece were to save up 10% to buy her dream unit worth $920,000, she would have to borrow $828,000 from the bank. Assuming she pays it off over 30 years, her weekly repayment would be $820 (at 3.13%pa for principal and interest repayments). Imagine if she finds a way to set aside $50 each week as an extra repayment. She’d be able to pay off her loan two years and nine months sooner and save $47,056 in interest. Many first-time buyers, or even someone who has yet to take the plunge into property investing, could benefit from a few tips on how to pay their home loan faster. Here are three to get you started. 1. Shop around. No, really, shop around. The big four banks – CBA,

Westpac, ANZ and NAB – all have a great section on their websites for prospective home loan borrowers. You can play various lending scenarios through their easy-to-use calculators. The repayment calculator can tell you how much you need to set aside each week if you want to borrow, say, $800,000 or $820,000. You’d be surprised at how different the interest rate offers are. If the borrower is a professional, like a lawyer or a doctor, they could sit down with the lender to negotiate

a better deal. Alternatively, if you’re working with a mortgage broker, the broker could request a discount. Banks might also offer a lower price for any business they are trying to attract to balance their portfolios. For example, if they want to increase the size of their investment lending portfolio, they could offer more competitive rates for customers who qualify. But you won’t know what is really on offer until you do some legwork, which, unfortunately, not everyone does.

2. When a “comparison rate” does not apply to your personal situation. When you compare home loans, it seems logical to think that you calculate the cost of borrowing based on the interest rate the institution is offering. But have you ever wondered why there’s a larger percentage value quoted along with the “comparison rate”? That’s because the real cost of the loan isn’t just the interest but other fees and charges, including the application fee and ongoing fees.

3. Do you need an offset account or redraw facility? “Generally speaking, it is cheaper to get a home loan that isn’t packaged,” says Mitchell. But this also means the borrower will not be able to access features such as an offset account or redraw facility. So, you have to assess if you need those features. Of course, you can always refinance or switch loans when your situation changes and you need the extra flexibility provided by a package. MICHELLE BALTAZAR

FOMO is the big danger in a hot property market Property has been dominating investment conversations. While prices have risen in many places, the market is especially hot (some say too hot) in the capital cities and Byron Bay, the new Hollywood favourite. According to CoreLogic, capital city average dwelling prices

rose 1.8% in April, which means they are 5.4% above their September 2017 record high. Darwin was the strongest performer at 2.7%, followed by Sydney at 2.4% and Adelaide at 2%. Darwin has yet to fully recover from its 33% fall between 2014 and 2020, and Perth is similarly recovering from its 22% drop in the same period.

The four smallest capitals recorded strong annual growth: Adelaide (10.3%), Hobart (13.8%), Darwin (15.3%) and Canberra (14.2%). For Melbourne, it was only 2.2%. While house prices have soared, the unit rental market in Sydney and Melbourne has been weak, although there has been some improvement since

the pandemic moratoriums were lifted in recent months. Shane Oliver, AMP Capital chief economist, says housing finance commitments remain at record highs, suggesting there is more demand to come. Auction clearance rates in Sydney and Melbourne remain high and at levels consistent with strong home price growth.

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However, CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless says there is already evidence of fewer first-time buyers in the market, with the Bureau of Statistics reporting a 4% fall in the value of first-home buyer home loans in February, the first drop since May last year. Meanwhile, Michelle May, principal of Michelle May

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Buyers Agents, says fear of missing out (FOMO) is buyers’ biggest enemy as it can easily lead to many years of regret. Her tips are: don’t panic; stick to your list of must-haves; don’t believe the hype; wait rather than over-commit; do your own research; and get a second opinion, ideally from someone who isn’t emotionally involved.

BUILD VERSUS BUY: INSIDE HOUSE-AND-LAND PACKAG THE E

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Visitor economy returns to pre-COVID levels After an action-packed April full of events, festivals and sport, Newcastle’s visitor economy has seen a significant increase, with the accommodation sector returning to pre-COVID19 occupancy levels. City of Newcastle’s ‘Event Packed April’ was led by the World Surf League (WSL) Newcastle Cup along with SailFest Newcastle Regatta, Newcastle Seafood Festival, Newcastle Food Month, AoN Women’s University Rugby 7s and NewRun. According to the Australian Accommodation Monitor Reports, the first fortnight in April saw occupancy levels sit between 80 to 90%. The average daily room rate increased by $52 per night, showing a 29% uplift in room revenue compared to the same period in 2019. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the newly released data portrayed Newcastle’s significant opportunity for event-led economic recovery and long-term growth. “City of Newcastle’s April events calendar returned impressive results for Newcastle’s tourism and

hospitality businesses still on the road to recovery,” Cr Nelmes said. “Pre-COVID, our city’s hotels, once filled mid-week with corporate business travellers, saw their occupancy levels sitting at 80-90% again most days, thanks to the WSL Newcastle Cup and the City’s bumper April events calendar.” New hotels are currently under construction including, Doma’s Little National Hotel, Iris Capital’s QT Hotel and the five-star Kingsley in

the former City Administration Centre The historic Newcastle Post Office will also receive upgrades with plans underway to develop it into a conference and function space. “With a fresh injection of new hotel supply, the City’s ability to pitch for major events will only boost its appeal as a host city and position Newcastle ahead of other destinations,” Cr Nelmes said. “We are in the early stages of rolling

out Newcastle’s newly adopted Destination Management Plan, designed to reposition the city as a premier tourism destination with a strong focus on events, natural assets and cultural heritage, with a raft of initiatives and projects designed to grow our visitor economy and increase visitor spend.” Information source: Media release, May 5, City of Newcastle

Potential new residents introduced to Newcastle More than 70 creatives and talented entrepreneurs from across metropolitan Australia were recently introduced to Newcastle, as the City of Newcastle narrows down the final 30 people receiving a relocation grant. The New Move relocation grant is a part of an Australian first economic stimulus program where 30 people moving to Newcastle will receive a $10,000 grant to be spent within the Local Government Area. Out of the 460 applicants, 70 travelled to Newcastle and enjoyed a curated ‘Famil’ weekend itinerary showcasing the city’s lifestyle and economic advantages. The weekend consisted of walking tours, dining experiences, and an IQ Talk from Dr Karl Kruszelnicki at the Civic Theatre. Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the visitors had gained valuable insight into Newcastle and why it was a prime location. “We welcomed more than 70 creative and talented professionals who are seriously looking at relocating to Newcastle,” Cr Clausen said. “We acquainted them with our

Sydney based New Move applicant Majed Traboulsi with Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen in Newcastle during the curated ‘Famil’ weekend

landmarks, showcased our arts and cultural scene, and most importantly connected them with like-minded individuals already relocated to Newcastle from Australian capital cities. “For many, they saw for the first time that Newcastle is an economic hub driven by innovation and entrepreneurial community, with diverse economic opportunities.” Cr Clausen said there was no shortage of opportunities in

Newcastle with world-class education, healthcare, aerospace hubs, and an innovation ecosystem that supported start ups. “We know that this program will deliver an excellent return on investment, with independent economic assessment showing that 30 skilled, community-minded individuals relocating to Newcastle expected to create 75 local jobs and see $25 million in economic output.” In return for receiving the relocation

grant, successful applicants will commit to working with the community, develop local skills and help create future economic opportunities. Recipients will also gain access to co-working spaces and networking events to build local business and community connections. Information source: Media release, May 9, City of Newcastle

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Call to fund Hunter Park All eyes are on the NSW State Budget and the likely funding of suburban stadium redevelopment in Sydney; meanwhile, Newcastle awaits an update on the proposed ‘Hunter Park’ in Broadmeadow. The Broadmeadow sports and entertainment precinct is currently home to the historic Newcastle Showground, the McDonald Jones Stadium, and the Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Redevelopments would see 63 hectares of land transformed into an international sporting, residential and entertainment precinct called Hunter Park. Earlier this year, Infrastructure Australia listed the project as a regional priority, while local stakeholders, including Business Hunter, the Urban Development Institute of Australia – Hunter Chapter and the Property Council, agree that Broadmeadow is Newcastle’s next major renewal precinct. However, after the cancellation of the $810M ANZ Stadium redevelopment, the NSW Government is expected to redirect funding into its boutique stadiums strategy

with significant upgrades proposed for Penrith, Kogarah and Brookvale stadiums. State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp urged the NSW Government to look north of the Hawkesbury River and consider injecting funds into the Hunter region. Crakanthorp said it was outrageous if

another major Sydney sports project received a cash injection while the Hunter was left with nothing. “In 2017 the Sports Minister arrived in Newcastle with some pretty pictures and big plans, but four years down the track we have little to show for it,” he said. “This government has spent over $1 billion

on the Sydney Football Stadium and Bankwest Stadium, and now they’re looking at throwing more cash at Sydney. “The government needs to fulfil its languishing commitments in the Hunter before it funds more new Sydney projects. “The precinct would deliver a huge boost to the local economy and jobs, both during construction and as part of its ongoing operations – it’s time for the government to provide Newcastle with its fair share and fund this project.” The call for funding comes as Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a $66M commitment to the Newcastle Airport, upgrading the runway to international standards. “This will ensure that we can take larger flights, and we can back the future of the Hunter and its considerable potential that it has,” Morrison said. The funding, which is a part of the Federal Budget, would see the runway widen by 7.5 metres on both sides, accommodating widebodied, long haul aircrafts to fly in and out of Williamtown. The 2021-22 NSW Budget will be handed down on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. Hayley McMahon

Supporting local veterans A program aimed at supporting veterans to pursue careers in local government has been launched in Newcastle, focusing on providing dedicated advice, guidance, and feedback to ex-service personnel. The City of Newcastle Veterans Employment Program, developed in collaboration with the NSW Office for Veteran Affairs and the United Services Union, is a dedicated program helping veterans and employers discover matching skill sets and provide support through recruitment processing. Some parts of the program include a detailed ‘Rank to Grade Guide’ aimed at helping veterans and employers understand how Australian Defence Force experience can be aligned with government jobs. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City of Newcastle was proud to support veterans who considered pursuing a career in the local government sector. “City of Newcastle has an enormously diverse workforce, catering to a wide range of skills and backgrounds, making local government a great career opportunity for ex-service personnel, no matter their rank or experience,” Cr Nelmes said. City of Newcastle Director Ken Liddell has 20 years of service in the Royal Australian Air Force and said the skills he learned enabled him to have a successful state and local government career. “Strong and decisive decision making, collaboration and teamwork as well as leadership and mentoring are all skills encouraged in the services that readily transfer into local council jobs,” Liddell said. “The ability to continue to serve your community is just one reason why I would strongly encourage any veteran to consider a career in local government as a great postservice career choice.” Office for Veterans Affairs Manager Craig Delaney welcomed the City of Newcastle’s support in assisting ex-servicemen and women find employment. “The Veterans Employment Program aims to support our ex-service personnel into public sector jobs across NSW, and City of

HMC- Lillian Tiddy Senior Industrial Officer at LGNSW, Lieutenant Colonel (Retired) Craig Delaney from the Office for Veterans Affairs and Stephen Hughes, Northern Region Manager, United Services Union Newcastle’s commitment to this program hearings, and compel the production of will be warmly welcomed by the men and documents and witness statements. women of our veteran community,” Delaney “This will be an important process for the said. families, I think, and I hope it will be a healing “The Office for Veterans Affairs, working process,” Morrison said. closely with City of Newcastle, can provide “Veterans who return from Iraq and strong support and assistance throughout Afghanistan were dealing with a very the entire recruitment process.” different set of challenges to previous The program comes as Prime Minister generations of diggers—we need to take Scott Morrison announced a Royal action to support them. Commission into Defence and Veteran “We see the number of presentations Suicide. increasing, the demand for veteran support Some obligations of the royal commission increasing, of course, it is a function of the include examining the systemic issues and deployments over the last 20 years.” common themes in past deaths by suicide of The inquiry will be led by Veteran Affairs Australian Defence Force veterans. Minister Darren Chester, who believes the Morrison said the royal commission would royal commission will help restore hope for not delve into civil or criminal wrongdoing veterans and families suffering. or the causes of death concerning suicide On March 22, Federal Member for cases. Newcastle Sharon Claydon met with veterans “We want this to be comprehensive,” he and their families at Parliament House to call on the government to launch the royal said. “And I have no doubt that that will get commission. The day was also met with a petition supported.” The commission, which is expected to take containing more than 400,000 signatures led between 18 months and two years to by families of veterans who had lost their complete, will have a full range of compulsory lives to suicide. Claydon met with Julie-Ann Finney, who powers, including the ability to summon witnesses, take evidence, hold public lost her son David Stafford Finney to suicide

after he had served 20 years in the Australian Defence Force. After he discharged, David reached out for help from the Department of Veteran Affairs but was told he had to wait for six months, which was tragically too long. Claydon said she was relieved the government had finally listened to the calls of the veterans and their families who had campaigned for a royal commission since 2019. “I’m pleased that the government has finally listened to the calls for a Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide,” Claydon said. “We need to get this right—unfortunately, the inquiry Morrison has announced will not cover the role of departments like Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, previous reviews and inquiries like the 2019 Productivity Commission report, veteran homelessness, or the impact of antimalarial drug trials on veterans’ mental health. “These are all important issues that families and veterans have continuously raised with the government.” Claydon said Labor was pushing for the royal commission to have strong and broad powers and terms of reference. “The government must learn from their past mistakes and put the voices of veterans and grieving families at the very centre of their decision-making about this royal commission,” Claydon said. “I encourage current and former ADF members and their families to have their say about the royal commission’s scope and draft terms of reference.” A study conducted by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare found that there were 419 known suicides of serving, ex-serving, and reserve defence personnel between 2001 and 2017. On average, this is one death by suicide every two weeks, with already thirteen veterans tragically taking their lives this year alone. The commission will begin mid-2021, after terms of reference are established. To have your say about the commission’s scope, visit: royalcommission@dva.gov.au Hayley McMahon

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$20M flood commitment at Wallsend

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To help alleviate flooding in the Wallsend area, the City of Newcastle is delivering a $20.7M flood mitigation plan which will help Ironbark Creek better manage heavy rain events. The planned upgrade includes installing a stormwater bypass across from Cowper St Bridge and widening and realigning the upstream section of the creek—flanked by sandstone to renew the existing concrete-walled channel. Improvements at Cowper Street will follow the recently commenced demolition of a vacant building next to the Nelson St bridge. The City of Newcastle acquired this in 2018 to facilitate the future widening of Hunter Water Corporation’s Ironbark Creek stormwater channel. Widening the Hunter Water channel and replacing the Tyrrell St, Nelson St and Boscawen St bridges are key elements of the Ironbark Creek Flood Mitigation Plan. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City was committed to improving Wallsend for current and future generations. “We’re getting on with our $20.7 million, Council-endorsed work as part of the Ironbark Creek Flood Mitigation Plan along with traffic improvements

WallsendP-NN003a- HMC- Ward 4 Councillor Matthew Byrne and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes in Wallsend.

and public amenity upgrades to Wallsend Town Centre, which will support businesses and residents,” Cr Nelmes said. “The installation of the Cowper Street Bridge bypass culvert is a critical first step before the City can proceed with upgrades to the nearby intersection of Cowper and Kokera Street, replacing the roundabout with traffic signals.

“Further traffic improvements in Wallsend are planned under the Wallsend Local Centres Program, with detailed design for the upgrade of existing traffic signals at the intersection of Cowper and Nelson Streets to commence later in 2021, including blackspot funding from Transport for NSW.” The new Tyrrell St Bridge was opened

in April last year following the City’s $3.3 million replacement of the original 1930 built structure. Detailed design of the replacement and raising of the Nelson and Boscawen St bridges are scheduled to commence later this year.  Information source: Media release, Apr 27, City of Newcastle

East End upgrades underway

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes at the official start of construction on phase one of the East End upgrade with City of Newcastle’s project team and representatives and works crew from Statewide Civil

A $5M project, a part of the East End Public Domain Plan, is underway with wider footpaths, cycleways, street trees, and amenity improvements in and around Hunter St Mall. The first phase will target the block bound by Wolfe and Perkins St, which will help position the precinct as a traditional high street and an attractive destination for locals and visitors. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City of Newcastle was committed to delivering well-planned infrastructure

for a growing city. “Phase 1 includes upgrades which will reinstate Hunter Street as a traditional main street, improve accessibility, give cyclists dedicated space, and significantly improve lighting and smart city infrastructure,” Cr Nelmes said. “Public amenities will also be improved, and street trees and landscaping upgrades will create a greener city centre.” She said the central location to Newcastle Beach, the Harbour, and restaurants boosted nearby businesses. “City of Newcastle’s East End Public

Domain Plan will ensure that our urban amenity in and around East End Village complements the positive changes underway in the CBD,” Cr Nelmes said. Other improvements will see a complete road renewal, upgrade to stormwater infrastructure, Public Wi-Fi, electric vehicle charging points, smart lighting and added street furniture. East End Public Domain Plan was endorsed by Council in 2018 and was followed by community engagement workshops and detailed design drafts throughout 2019. The start date for the first stage

upgrades was confirmed on April 27, with the Councillors awarding Statewide Civil with the construction contract. Construction will occur on Wolfe Street between May and August, Hunter Street between August and October, and Perkins Street between October and December. Works are staged to minimise the impact on the community and local businesses, with construction expected to be finished next year. Information source: Media release, May 24, City of Newcastle

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Next stage for Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrades The concept designs for Stage 1 of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrades have been finalised, with the designs focused on improving the ageing pools and lower promenades. Changes made in response to feedback from the Newcastle Ocean Baths Community Reference Group include replacing the shade structure with a rainproof shade textile with the potential to be removed during the winter season, the colour scheme of extended bleachers and reducing the visual impact of the new lifeguard tower. The iconic bleacher seating will be retained, the boardwalk will be renewed, and a new pump station with more effective pool cleaning will be installed. The concept design also addresses the undulating rock bottom while retaining the sand floor to facilitate cleaning the pools and increase user safety when sand levels are low. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Newcastle Ocean Baths Community Reference Group (CRG) was integral in refining the concept design for Stage 1. “We’ve heard valuable feedback from the Community Reference Group, which represents our broader community and Newcastle Ocean

Finalised concept designs for Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrades

Baths users, and adjusted the design to ensure the Baths meets the needs of our community and visitors,” Cr Nelmes said. “The big winner has been accessibility improvements, with fitfor-purpose ramps for people with a disability or mobility issue to easily get to and from the pools. “We’ve carefully considered the location of the ramp access into the pools and, following advice from the CRG and in consultation with disability advocates, have realigned the new ramp to the western edge of the pool to allow long lap swimming.

“We’ve heard our community values the existing rounded central stairs, and they’ll be incorporated in the new design within upgraded seating and improvements to ensure they meet modern standards.” Co-chair, Hunter Regional Committee of the National Trust, Mark Metrikas, said the City of Newcastle had consulted on concept elements such as the rounded stairs. “National Trust was concerned to see the rounded heritage stairs missing from an earlier design of the Newcastle Ocean Baths Stage 1 upgrade,” Metrikas said. “City of Newcastle has worked

closely with National Trust on seeking advice as to how the stairs can be incorporated into the new design, as well as sharing additional information about the engineering and safety considerations, so as we can get a better outcome for this cherished facility.” The Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade Stage 2 will focus on the upper concourse and pavilion building. Construction on Stage 1 of the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade is expected to commence mid-year. Information source: Media release, May 19, City of Newcastle

James St Plaza receives a makeover The popular James St Plaza along Beaumont St, Hamilton, is receiving a much-needed makeover with the space transforming into a revitalised and more attractive hub for shoppers and families to visit. The City of Newcastle is happy to announce the Hamilton community will enjoy the revitalised space sooner than first planned, with works already started. Upgrades include new paving, street furniture, landscaping, artworks and ground etchings acknowledging Hamilton’s rich history. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the upgrade would transform the plaza into a more safe, inclusive, and inviting place for local businesses and the community. “James Street Plaza is an important space in the Beaumont Street shopping area, and this upgrade will improve the look and feel of the plaza as well as create a safer space for the community to enjoy,” Cr Nelmes said. “Throughout our community engagement and regular discussions

The planned upgrades of James St Plaza

with business owners, we have heard lots of ideas of how to improve the space, and in particular address concerns about safety at night.” Designed to improve activity in the space and celebrate Hamilton’s unique character, the new upgrades will include an interactive lighting display created in collaboration with the University of Newcastle. Councillor Carol Duncan said the design reflected broad feedback from the community and contributions from local historian Ruth Cotton, author of Hidden

Hamilton. “Etchings on ground paving and signage in the plaza have been informed by Ruth’s extensive research of Hamilton’s history – from its traditional owners, through the suburb’s history as a mining settlement, its rich European influence from the Lettopalena Italian migrant community, and the impact of the 1989 earthquake,” Cr Duncan said. “Upgrades to seating, paving and landscaping will better facilitate activation of the space for markets

and live music. “Once this valuable upgrade is complete, the design of James Street Plaza will reflect the rich culture of the suburb of Hamilton and will be an attractive central meeting place for people.” Community feedback on the lighting concept options will be gathered towards the end of construction with completion date expected by mid-2021. Information source: Media release, Apr 18, City of Newcastle

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9 Photograph taken at very short range (5-2) 10 Kind of illusion (7) 11 Relating to sound reproduction (5) 12 Holy Communion (9) 13 Dog with wavy silky hair (6,7) 20 Leg joint (4) 21 Graded (5) 22 Wife of one’s uncle (4) 23 Reflection (13) 32 Doctor (9) 33 Cost (5) 34 Typical (7) 35 Petite (3-4)

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5 Steel boot reinforcement (6) 6 Filter (6) 7 Operational (6) 8 Vigorous attack (5) 13 Sarcastic doubter of sincerity and merit (5) 14 Unsoiled (5) 15 Strange and mysterious (5) 16 Organisation (3-2) 17 Per --- ad astra (R A F motto) (5) 18 Resident of e.g. Basra (5) 19 Russian revolutionary leader (5) 24 One-fifth of the atmosphere (6) 25 Ethnic (6) 26 Posted (6) 27 Yearner (6) 28 Warning (3-3) 29 Source (6) 30 Atomize (5) 31 Conical tent (5)

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Winter woolly callout With the winter months approaching and Newcastle in the grips of a housing crisis, homelessness services are asking for donations of winter woollies and warm clothing for those in need.

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp with donated winter woollies

All community donations will be distributed to Nova for Women and Children, Jenny’s Place, Domestic Violence and Homelessness Service, and the Matthew Talbot Homeless service. Along with the blankets, beanies, gloves and other winter woollies, Matthew Talbot Homeless service is also seeking donations of men’s shoes. State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said his office had become a donation collection point after he was approached by community members who had looked for ways to help. “I’ve had quite a few enquiries about

what people can do to help, and after speaking with the services, they’ve expressed that they will find these winter items useful,” Crakanthorp said. “It may seem like a small gesture in the big scheme of things, but these items will help both people without housing and those who have secured properties but find them poorly-insulated or draughty.” Donations can be taken to Crakanthorp’s office at 414 Hunter St, Newcastle, between 9 am and 4.30 pm on weekdays until the end of May. According to the Real Estate Institute of NSW’s latest survey, Newcastle’s residential rental vacancy is currently the lowest of the state’s major cities at just 0.7 per cent. Local homelessness services have also described the situation as the worst they have ever seen. Information source: Media release, May 10, State MP Tim Crakanthorp

Family Fun at Foreshore Park

A convoy of colourful cars made their way through Foreshore Park on Saturday May 22, as families and community members welcomed the 2021 Variety Bash cars back from their outback adventure. Organised by children’s charity Variety the cars were one of many highlights on the family fun day, with hundreds of Novocastrians enjoying fun activities and family-friendly entertainment. Variety Acting General Manager, David Small, said 100 Bash cars arrived at

Foreshore Park at noon, where the crowds were encouraged to take photos of their favourite teams. “It really is something special to see not only the convoy of cars arrive back— all covered in red outback dust—but also the grins of our Bashers having just completed their adventure raising much-needed funds for kids in NSW and the ACT,” Small said. “It was a great chance for everyone to share in the fun of the Variety Bash, especially for local kids who love the incredible cars that are all decked out with some iconic characters—from Paw

Patrol, Star Wars, Minions, Bob the Builder, Lightning McQueen, ScoobyDoo and The Flintstones. “We are so proud of the exceptional hard work of every single Basher to raise an extraordinary $1.2M for kids in need. “That’s a lot of money and Variety will get busy spending on the kids ... as soon as we have a nap.” Starting at 11 am, the fun day featured roving characters, live entertainment, food stalls, and a live radio broadcast from 2NUR FM. Live entertainment included classic

rock musician Darren Rolling Keys and a 9D cinema experience where audience members could feel what they were watching from rain, wind, snow, and bubbles. Families also purchased $5 wristbands so they could enjoy unlimited inflatables, face painting, airbrush tattoos, and balloon twisting. Food stalls included Crafty Street Eats as well as the Variety BBQ trailer which served sausage sandwiches and Lulu’s Gelato. Hayley McMahon

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Upgrades for Islington Park off-leash dog area The off-leash dog area at Islington Park will soon receive upgrades to its fencing and facilities, helping to increase safety for local pets and enhance the park’s usability. The planned work includes improvements to fencing, new seating, shade, landscaping, dog drinking water facilities, garbage bins and new park signage. These upgrades were identified in the Dogs in Open Space Plan, a 10-year strategy for improving and managing off-leash dog areas throughout Newcastle. City of Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the improvements would make visiting the off-leash area in Islington Park a safer and more comfortable experience for pets and owners. “The people of Newcastle are passionate about their dogs, which is

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen and his Cavoodle, Toby, at Islington Park off-leash area, where improvement works will soon commence

why the City is committed to improving our off-leash areas, with Islington Park our next focus area,” Cr Nelmes said. “With over 84,000 dogs registered in

our City, it’s important that there are a variety of safe off-leash options for our furry friends to run free and socialise with other pets.”

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said the City of Newcastle had delivered a fully fenced off-leash area in North Lambton and was looking at further opportunities to upgrade off-leash areas. “In addition to the works planned for the Islington Park off-leash area, we are currently undertaking planning work for a fully-fenced off-leash area in Maryland,” Cr Clausen said. “We’re also exploring the potential for a fenced dog park in the Adamstown area.” The upgrade works in Islington Park are due for completion by June 2021, and during construction, the off-leash area will be unavailable for use. A full list of the City’s off leash areas is available online at newcastle.nsw.gov. au Information source: Media release, May 17, City of Newcastle

Guide Dog ‘petiquette’ reminder Letter to the Editor: For International Guide Dog Day on April 28, CEO of Guide Dogs NSW and ACT, Dale Cleaver, reminded the community of ‘petiquette’ and the importance of respecting Guide Dogs and their Handlers. It has been revealed that over 40 per cent of Guide Dog Handlers across Australia have reported an increase in their Guide Dogs having to deal with distractions from pet dogs and owners in the past 12 months. At Guide Dogs Australia, we are focusing on what the community can do to help Guide Dogs carry on their important work safely and undistracted. International Guide Dog Day recognises the important role Guide Dogs play in supporting people worldwide with low vision or blindness to achieve their goals and live independently. The past year has thrown everyone challenges, and while pets brought so

Photo: Guide Dogs Australia

much joy to Australian homes during the pandemic, reduced socialisation and training of pets during lockdowns can lead to poor ‘petiquette’. Pet dogs that are off-lead or uncontrolled even when on leads are a

common distraction for Guide Dog Handlers. Also, people with dogs not making themselves known before approaching a Handler and their Guide Dog can be a ‘petiquette’ issue – with 40 per cent

of Handlers telling us they experience this weekly. This can lead to situations where the safety of Guide Dog Handlers and Guide Dogs are put at risk due to disorientation and other factors and also causes much anxiety. While you or your pet dog may not intend any harm, a distracted Guide Dog can be hazardous for someone with low vision or blindness. We are asking everyone to keep their pet dog on a leash in the presence of Guide Dogs. By keeping control of your own dog, you can help create a safe community, not just for Guide Dogs and their Handlers but also for everyone. If you see a working Guide Dog in public while you are with your dog, give the Handler space and never pat, feed, whistle or otherwise try to distract a working Guide Dog. Dale Cleaver, CEO of Guide Dogs NSW/ACT

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Candlelight vigil for women killed by violence

A crowd gathered under the tram sheds at Foreshore Park to take a stand against domestic violence

Women who have suffered or been killed at the hands of violence were honoured in a candlelight vigil on May 5, where Newcastle locals took a stand against domestic violence and remembered loved ones lost. Underneath the tram sheds in Foreshore Park hung 150 dresses representing the women killed by violence; some dresses carried names, ages and stories, some were unnamed, and others represented children. The Newcastle vigil was one of many held across Australia in line with Domestic Violence Prevention Month. The Newcastle event was supported by Nova for Women and Children, the Newcastle Domestic Violence Committee, Warlga Ngurra Women and Children’s Refuge, Jenny’s Place, and the Gender Research Network (GRN) at the University of Newcastle. GRN Project Officer Rachel Bond said 11 women in Australia had been killed by violence this year, with 10 of those women murdered by men they had known. Their names were read aloud at the vigil, including baby Kobi Shepherdson, tragically killed by her father in a murdersuicide last month. “Domestic abuse impacts everyone in the community; I think with the current figures, it’s less and less likely that there isn’t somebody in your life that has suffered from domestic abuse—or violence against women,” Bond said. “We want everyone to take a stand and say this violence has to stop; this violence is not okay.” Bond said more than 100 people attended the vigil, including poem reading, speakers from frontline services, and an indigenous smoking ceremony that cleansed the dresses— reigniting them with a new spirit. Newcastle feminist collective AWE initially created the white dresses for the “Remember the women” installation in 2016. The dresses were displayed in public

spaces, symbolising women killed that year, which eventually evolved into a yearly campaign led by different groups, including Hunter TAFE in 2017, Walk A Mile Koori Style in 2018, and the Gender Research Network in 2019. GRN Director and vigil emcee Trisha Pender said the dresses individualised each woman and ensured that their life was not reduced to a statistic. “The dresses you see around you were made to remember the life of an individual woman, and as you can see, there are far, far, far too many of them,” Pender said. “This event came about because we are sick and tired of mourning the women who die in domestic and family violence each year—it’s not just those lives which are lost, but those who are still fighting and those who have survived. “Staff at Warlga Ngurra suggested taking these dresses to Canberra and making this project national. “So that’s what we are going to do; on May the 24th, we will be taking these dresses to Parliament House and making our government listen; we invite everyone to join us.”

On May 24, Parliament House heard the voices of frontline domestic and family violence workers alongside allies and other community members from Newcastle. Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon helped present the 150 white dresses and relayed an important message to Prime Minister Scott Morrison. “No more excuses; it’s time to fund DV (domestic violence) services properly, tackle the national housing crisis and address gendered poverty in Australia,” Claydon said. “These dresses, that have been lovingly made by Novocastrians were gifted to the Prime Minister as a potent reminder of the human cost of violence against women and children, and the need for urgent and enduring action.” The three main asks of the Prime Minister are to dramatically increase funding to domestic violence and homelessness refuges, immediately address the national housing catastrophe, and address gendered poverty as a barrier for women fleeing violence. Rachel Bond said the first step to reducing domestic violence was

criminalising coercive control and educating the police, the judiciary, and the community on these behaviours. “Some instances women think because they aren’t physically abused, then they aren’t experiencing domestic abuse, but coercive control is just as damaging and can be a red flag for domestic homicide,” Bond said. “So, in Hannah Clarke’s case, from what we know, there was no history of physical violence, so that first act of violence was the horrendous final act. “Criminalising coercive control is a step in the right direction, to help protect women and to educate the public.” She said more housing was needed as well as funding to women’s refuges and frontline domestic violence services. “All the services here in Newcastle are at full capacity, they are screaming out for longer-term funding, they shouldn’t have to keep applying for money on a short time basis, if they had secure funding, they would be able to help more women,” Bond said. “We are also in a housing crisis; after these women have initially fled, and there is nothing available on the rental market or in public housing, where are these women meant to go? “It’s devastating to think we can live in Australia, which is such a wealthy nation, but we cannot provide something as basic as housing—both federal and state governments need to step up and address this.” For the past three years, the University of Newcastle’s Gender Research Network has held public talks, candlelight vigils and hosted webinars to help raise awareness for domestic violence. Additionally, they also organise the Newcastle event for the global campaign ‘16 Days of Activism to End Violence Against Women’, which runs annually from November 25 to December 10. Hayley McMahon

The dresses hung outside Parliament House, delivered to Prime Minister Scott Morrison

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The untold benefits of homebirth: part 1 Few people are aware of the fact that for low-risk women in developed nations, homebirth is statistically as safe as birthing in a hospital. In fact, if we look beyond the paradigm that considers perinatal deaths to be the only measure of a safe, successful birth (regardless of whether the mother is permanently injured or severely traumatised), it could even be argued that homebirth is safer!

GEORGIA LIENEMANN We’re midway through a series on birth and this week I’m addressing the topic of homebirth. As someone who was lucky enough to birth two children at home, this is the information – or at least a small portion of it – that I wish I’d had access to before embarking on my journey. You may remember Noni Hazelhurst’s 2016 Logies hall of fame induction speech where she mentioned that the greatest joy in her life were the homebirths of her two sons. I watched that speech having had my first taste of homebirth only a few months prior and was happy to see a moment of public recognition of such a misunderstood and sadly, taboo topic. Understanding homebirth Due to our cultural bias towards medicalised birth in this country, the decision to birth at home with a private midwife was not one I could take lightly at the outset. Approximately 0.3% of births take place this way in Australia and only 0.1% in New South Wales. Whilst the rates are climbing steadily in this country (we saw a rise of 54% in 2010, for example), these are still low figures compared with other parts of the world – our closest neighbour New Zealand has over ten times this rate (3.4%) and in some of the Scandinavian countries it’s a hundred times higher. So, to arrive at a place of genuine comfort with the idea of homebirth, I had to embark on a long, intensive period of research that thankfully led me to the firm conclusion that homebirth was not only a safe choice, but one that could offer an exhaustive list of benefits I hadn’t considered previously. One thing that quickly became apparent in my research was that positive birth experiences tend to flourish wherever a woman feels safest. For many women this will indeed be in a hospital setting – for others like myself, and especially those who have had a traumatic hospital experience previously, it may be at home. This piece is by no means a critique of

the former, it’s simply an attempt to give some airtime to the relatively unknown benefits of the latter – a brief distillation of my understanding, for anyone considering this option. What is homebirth Homebirth is a planned event where a woman chooses to give birth at home, with care provided by a qualified midwife. In Australia, there are essentially two options of achieving this: through a homebirth program linked to a public hospital or engaging a privately practising midwife. Unfortunately, for the majority of women, there are significant hurdles to accessing either of these options: homebirth programs often have a long list of eligibility requirements that exclude many otherwise low-risk women and the cost of engaging a midwife in private practice will set you back around six thousand dollars. Thankfully, most midwives offer reasonable payment plans and according to surveys undertaken in large homebirth forums and social media groups, it’s nearly impossible to find anyone who regrets investing the money – even though many have struggled to do so. Why do women choose homebirth? There are countless reasons to birth at home. In fact, too many for one article, so I’ll be expanding on this area – including some of the more obscure benefits I wish I’d known about – in part two. However, to have an informed discussion around safety, we need to understand the primary differences offered by homebirth. They include: • Automatic access to the ‘continuity of care’ model • Lower rates of medical intervention and associated complications • Much higher rates of normal, physiological birth What is continuity of care? The continuity of care model refers to the process of receiving support from the same midwife or midwives throughout pregnancy and labour and

in the weeks following birth. This model is not unique to homebirth as some hospitals and birthing centres offer programs in this vein, however homebirths offer this model by default. According to the literature, continuity of care is the ‘gold standard’ for birthing women and the fact that the large majority of women in Australia are unable to access this model is a travesty. This is the central issue addressed so eloquently in the recently released, multi-award-winning film, ‘Birth Time’ – a must-watch for anyone interested in the topic of birth. It is well established in the literature that women who receive continuity of care are more likely to have a normal physiological birth, a more positive birth experience with far greater satisfaction and are more likely to successfully breastfeed. Babies born to mothers receiving this type of care are more likely to be born at term and healthy. (To put it a little more bluntly, less babies die, in this model of care.) Instead of short sessions with different care providers, women in this model receive longer, in-depth visits of up to an hour, over the course of their pregnancy. The relationship that builds between woman and midwife over this period allows a much quicker and more accurate recognition of when things deviate from normal – not only during labour, but also in the postpartum period, when mental health becomes a concern. This brings us to the issue of safety and wellbeing. Is homebirth safe? The most common objection from those who are unfamiliar with the literature (and unfortunately this includes many GPs who are often the first port of call for parents in early pregnancy) are concerns relating to the safety of women and their babies. There is now ample evidence, including large population-based studies, systematic reviews and metanalyses, which consistently show that homebirth is a safe option for low-risk women.

Homebirth under these circumstances is not associated with increased rates of perinatal death but does result in lower rates of obstetric interventions and maternal morbidity, including severe perineal trauma, postpartum haemorrhage, birth trauma and postpartum depression. Why are homebirth complications so rare? Due to the lack of interventions and other factors that we’ll elaborate upon next week, homebirth complications are extremely rare. Unlike a hospital situation, midwives are a constant presence in the room, calmly observing the labouring woman with undivided attention. They are therefore better equipped to accurately decide when management or intervention might be warranted and will often suggest a hospital transfer long before any niggling issue becomes an urgent situation. That said, midwives are trained and fully capable of taking care of the majority of complications that can arise and bring a full range of equipment to enable resuscitation, suturing, catheterisation, management of bleeding and IV delivery – just as they would have access to in a hospital. It’s not necessarily an either / or situation The beauty of homebirth is that the option to transfer to hospital is always available. Hospital transfers usually take place for pain relief, fatigue or slow or stalled labour. The average transfer rate is 37% for first-time mothers and 7% for subsequent births. Whilst there’s a significant difference in these transfer rates, there’s no difference in the rates of adverse outcomes. Urgent transfers are rarer than one might think – only 4% of planned homebirths according to one review and studies have shown that there is no higher risk for mother or baby upon being transferred. Stay tuned for part two of this article where we’ll expand on some of the remarkable and unique benefits of homebirth, as well as the surprising discovery I made throughout this process: that birth isn’t just about pain, it can also be one of the most profoundly pleasurable experiences of a woman’s life.

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DOWN IN THE GARDEN: MARVELLOUS MUSHROOMS will need to do is place it in the suggested spot and then water it. They tend to be a lot more expensive than buying the spores and spawn but if you are limited on space and want a very tidy solution, they would be suitable for you.

Mushroom Compost This is the stuff left behind after growing mushrooms. It is the fruiting substrate and soil or the entire mushroom kit once it stops producing. Use in the rest of your garden for a rich boost and perhaps a couple of baby mushrooms might even surprise you.

Beginner Mushroom Growers

CHERALYN DARCEY

Just as gardening has had a huge jump in popularity of late, so have other plant-based interests including mushroom foraging and growing. Autumn is the time for this peaceful nature-based activity for all ages and as well as getting out into the forests, you can end up with a basket of yummy goodness or at least photos. However, unless you are trained and experienced in the identification of wild mushrooms, this expedition can be dangerous and deadly, so we are not suggesting you do this on your own. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt and as you would with unusual flowers, take photos and memories instead. There are a few mushrooms hunting experiences that include identification lessons that appear from time to time, and you will be able to take mushrooms home to eat. A great resource to find people, courses and events is: facebook.com/groups/ AustralianWildMushroomHunters There are well over 10,000 species of fungi that we would identify as mushrooms and of these only around 25 are poisonous but many of these will cause death. While that may seem like a small risk, every year dozens of people in Australia are poisoned by mushrooms they forage and some even die so you need to be careful. Only about thirty of the 10,000 make their way onto the commercially available list in most of the world so growing your own could be just the thing for those looking for a new culinary experience. Like everything you grow, even the humble white button mushroom tastes amazing fresh from your own garden.

Grow Your Own Mushrooms These delicious treats that are bursting with goodness are not a plant but are fungi. What we harvest and eat is the fruiting body of the fungi that lives underground or within other things. Mushrooms begin their life as spores that then develop into mycelium which colonises and then nourishes itself with what they find around them if conditions and available food source is right. They will then, under further favourable

conditions, fruit and become mushrooms. At home, mushrooms are usually most successfully grown from ‘spawn’. This is a medium that contains the spores of the mushroom you are wanting to grow. It looks sometimes like little pebbles and is a mixture of grain and occasionally other materials. This spawn is added to a ‘fruiting substrate’. This is the growing medium that will provide the place for the developing mycelium to develop. Different mushrooms will grow on different fruiting substrates so be guided by the directions of your supplier. Think of this like the soil type that various plants prefer or need. After that? All mushrooms grow pretty much the same way. They will need a cool, damp and dark place so under your home, a basement, garage or created area like a cupboard. Generally, temperature needs to be around 21c for the spores to produce filaments and take hold. Depending on conditions this will take around three weeks. To achieve this heating pads or a warm position can be used. The temperature then needs to be dropped to between around 13 – 16c for successful fruiting to produce your

mushrooms. At this point, a layer of about 2cm of damp potting mix can be spread over the top. Very lightly mist the soil when needed to prevent drying out. Mushrooms will fruit in around a month and are ready to harvest as per species. Growing mushrooms at home in coffee grounds collected from local cafes is also a popular method. It does work but you need to make sure that the coffee grounds are very fresh and haven’t been contaminated or you run the risk of growing other things like bacteria along with your mushrooms. The best way would be to give the café a sterilised bucket to collect the grounds in for you.

Local Mushroom Farm NABIA is a local fungi success story operated by the Kim family. NABIA farm is located roughly 2 hours away from Sydney in the NSW Hunter Valley wine and dairy region. Nabia Mushrooms is a staple at markets around Newcastle and the Hunter. See nabia.com.au for details.

Mushroom Box Kits These are also offered by some local nurseries and most larger stores with nursery sections. A good solution for first timers as all you

Like plants, some mushrooms can be a little more challenging than others. These three are all relatively simple. Pearl Oyster (Pleurotus ostereatus) This is a very easy mushroom to grow and with results for our dinner plate appearing in only a few weeks, a great one for the kids to grow, or those of us who are impatient. These will grow indoors on straw and sawdust and hardwood logs outdoors. Garden Giant (Stropharia rugosoannulata) Needing more moisture than most and having a fruiting time of up to 6 months, these are none the less a popular and easy mushroom to try. They can be grown indoors on sawdust blocks or straw but also can make an amazing feature outdoors when grown on hardwood chips. They can be grown upon a pile, a layer or a feature garden of these chips. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes) Want to take it a step up and start growing mushrooms in your garden? The Shiitake love growing on hardwood logs, but the downside is that they take a long time to fruit on logs, up to 12 months. Mushrooms growing on logs in your garden!? Worth it, right? The log can be reinoculated (seeded with spawn) every season to keep your yields coming though once established. If you simply cannot wait, they will fruit in only a couple of months on a sawdust block indoors.

TIME TO GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY Camelias should be starting to flower, time to prune cumquats, plant lilies and deadhead those autumn bulbs. You could plant: broad beans, broccoli, cress, cabbage, carrot, English spinach, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, mid and late season onions, parsnip, peas, radish, snow peas, spring onion, turnip, forget-me-nots, lobelia, gypsophila, honesty, nemesia, nigella, pansy, poppy, snapdragon, statice, stock, sweet pea, viola, wallflower Cheralyn Darcey is a gardening author and community garden coordinator Send your gardening questions, events and news to: cheralyndarcey@gmail.com

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Art exhibition showcases iconic city landscapes An art exhibition at the Newcastle Art Gallery is showcasing intimate paintings of everyday objects and iconic landscapes of Newcastle. Local artist Rachel Milne is featuring her first major solo exhibition, ‘RACHEL MILNE: Nest’, with portraits and paintings set in her home and studio. Milne’s exhibition also includes a series of plein air landscapes and paintings of the former David Jones building in Hunter St Mall. Milne was the artist in residence at the time of the building’s abandonment and created artworks that captured the iconic history of the former department store. “I want people to see these places and that massive contrast between a building when it’s full of flashy people and lights, until the point where it’s changed, and it’s empty, like an empty escalator,” Milne said. “I suppose it’s an honesty that I’m trying to put across; this is how things really are; for me, these spaces are so important, but I feel like they often get overlooked, but for me, they are just fundamental.” The English-born artist moved to Newcastle in 2013 and made her mark on the local art scene as the winner of the Singleton Portraiture Prize. Milne is also a three-time finalist in the Kilgour Prize at Newcastle Art Gallery. She has also made the shortlist twice in the Wynne Prize at the Art Gallery of

Photo: City of Newcastle

NSW and has work in the collections of Bathurst and Maitland Regional Art Galleries. “This show is called Nest, which started when I got access to the Creator Incubator in Hamilton North, which is a huge couple of warehouses full of artists,” Milne said. “This was an incredibly important space for them, each area was so individual, and the things they were making were so beautiful, there was so much humanity—it just occurred to me that people nest. “And it’s quite strange because people

are never in my paintings…I feel like they pull the eye too much, and I’m more interested in the objects and the space itself. “But I just thought what if I can paint all these different places which are so important to the people of Newcastle... but maybe we don’t necessarily see, or value as much as we should.” Newcastle Art Gallery Director Lauretta Morton said Milne’s observational works were an example of Intimism’s artistic genre, which captured the beauty of everyday objects and scenes. “Milne’s observational paintings

depict ordinary objects like a child’s pram, a chair from her studio or food she has prepared,” Morton said. “Paintings of local public swimming pools depict nostalgic scenes that have remained unchanged for years, the exhibition also includes recently created works of art by Milne on display for the first time.” Nest is on display from May 15 to August 1 at Newcastle Art Gallery; for more information, visit the galleries website. Information source: Media release, May 12, City of Newcastle

Artwork blooms at SMAC Studio Artworks full of florals and botanical colours were on display from April 23 to May 2 at the SMAC Studio in Tighes Hill, with the Wall Garden exhibition capturing the beautiful and intricate details of nature. Artist and owner of SMAC Studio Sally McDonald said the exhibition displayed a collection of abstract floral paintings and mixed media by local artist Jo Dyer, and woven wall hangings created by Adelaide based fibre artist Clare Burton. “Both artists drew inspiration from the natural environment around them, which was celebrated in the vibrant and texturally rich collection,” McDonald said. “Their collaborative work showed their collective love of nature and in particular gardens. “It was such a beautiful show with abstract floral pieces which were very detailed—and to have the paintings alongside the tactile weaving was nice. “A lot of people who came to the show commented that it was important to see the artworks up close because it was quite detailed.” Artist Jo Dyer said she draws inspiration for her artwork from the intricate textures and details of nature. “My art practice provides a means of deepening this process of observation and my appreciation for plants by exploring techniques that evoke a sense of the intricacies that captivate me in the garden,” Dyer said.

Local artist Jo Dyer with her Wall Garden collection

“I use mixed media—primarily acrylic paint, chalk pastel, collage and oil stick to create recurring elements such as vein-like leaf and petal textures and sprig-like botanical sketches. “These elements are the essence of my work, and the challenge I set myself is to create compositions that feature these details in a harmonious yet interesting way.” Works in the exhibition were purchased in an online auction with 10% of the proceeds donated to Global Gardens of Peace, an Australian charity that plans, designs, and delivers gardens to support vulnerable communities worldwide. After opening last year amidst the

worst of COVID-19, McDonald said the studio had started to gather traction and was now booked out for the rest of 2021. “I signed the lease just before COVID-19 hit, and I was crying into my pillow, but now it’s really starting to move along,” McDonald said. “The studio is this big, beautiful, lightfilled warehouse, which is just heaven for an artist; I have divided it into a gallery space and four artist studios, now occupied by a few painters, a textile artist, a silversmith, and an oil landscape painter. “It’s got a high warehouse ceiling so the artists can hang things from the roof

as well, and the area we are in has a light industrial vibe, so it’s a little edgy and has a certain appeal to artists.” Artists exhibiting at SMAC Studio this year include Carly Brett, Bridie Watt, Lyndal Campbell, Jen Denzin, Sarah Davy, and Ahn Wells. McDonald said it was important to support local artists and provide the community with a place to unwind and view inspired pieces. “We’ve had a couple of open studio days where people can actually view the artist’s studio and watch the artistic processes unfold,” she said. “People are interested in how artists make and create; when buying a piece of art, they want to know about the artist, how they made the piece, what the inspiration was—they want that connection.” She said some galleries could be intimidating and disconnected, where the art, the artist and the viewer were separate. “I really wanted an accessible and comfortable space where people can talk to the artists,” she said. “It’s a kid-friendly, dog-friendly, familyfriendly space, where everyone is just on the same level and can appreciate and enjoy the art together.” SMAC Studio is located at 73A Elizabeth St, Tighes Hill, for more information, visit SMAC Studio’s website or their Instagram @smac_space_studio. Hayley McMahon

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Girls will be Girls

Laura-Louanne Morgan ‘Louannella’, Founder of Got Your Back Sista Melissa Histon, Artistic Director of Vexel Creations Monique Humphreys

A new local platform is launching this Saturday, May 29, opening opportunities for underrepresented artists while simultaneously raising money for a local domestic violence charity. ‘Girls Will Be Girls’ will launch this Saturday at The Rogue Scholar from 4 pm until midnight, with all proceeds going towards Got Your Back Sista, a charity offering benevolent relief and

support to women and children escaping domestic violence. Organised in collaboration with Vexel Creations and Louannella, the night will showcase local and genre diverse performances with a new musician every hour. Artistic Director of Vexel Creations Monique Humphreys said they had become enraged, awakened, and inspired after attending Newcastle’s March4Justice.

“Laura and I came together after being at the march and found ourselves asking, okay, what’s next?” Humphreys said. “How can we actively contribute to the change we wish to see?” Laura-Louanne Morgan ‘Louannella’ said they both decided to try and enact change through their shared passions. “In a mutual passion for women’s rights and live music, we decided there’s no better way than to hold a festival

highlighting exactly that!” Morgan said. The local duo emphasised that the event was a safe, encouraging, and positive space for anyone over 18 to attend. Tickets are available via the Eventbrite website and are selling fast. For more information or to donate to the benefit event, contact vexelcreations1@gmail.com. Hayley McMahon

F3 derby: Jets downed by Mariners The Newcastle Jets have found their first loss in seven games against their F3 derby rivals, the Central Coast Mariners, at McDonald Stadium on Saturday evening, May 15. The F3 derby is the original local derby in the A-league, and passions between the two teams remain as high as ever. The Mariners’ surprise return to form this season continued with another clean sheet after a single goal to veteran Mariner Matt Simon to see the boys from the Coast defeat an unlucky Jets squad 0-1. An early chance was presented to the Jets from a mistimed header by Kye Rowles, but Jason Hoffman’s initial strike found Mariner’s keeper, Mark Birighitti, in the way before a second shot from Angus Thurgate was deflected by defender Ruon Tongyik. A third attempt from the ensuing corner by Nigel Boogaard was also thwarted as his header skimmed wide past the post. The momentum stayed with the Jets for most of the opening 20 minutes, with the Mariners succumbing to the pressure conceding several fouls and

Another chance for the Jets came in the 87th minute via a lobbed through ball by Ramy Najjarine for Valentino Yuel to chase. The ball trickled forward dangerously to the edge of the penalty area, forcing Birighitti out of the box to cut down Yuel’s space and forcing the youngster into an errant shot. The next F3 derby will be next season after the Jets have sunk to the bottom of the table, rendering them out of finals contention. Haakon Barry

giving to the Jets multiple chances to attack. But the home side was unable to make the most of them, and throughout the second quarter, the Mariners were able to find more possession and control in the midfield space. In the second half, the Mariners found more energy, with Joshua Nisbet posting a shot on target within the first 60 seconds. Eventually, a questionable foul on Daniel Bouman in the box, one which somehow survived the VAR review, gave away the most crucial set piece of the

game. The Mariners leading goalscorer, Matt Simon, stepped up and nonchalantly drove the ball hard and low into the back left corner, giving Jets keeper Italiano no chance. The trademark shakas from the Mariners’ skipper roused the large cohort of Mariners fans who made their way up the F3(M1). Jet’s maestro, Roy O’Donovan, came close to an equaliser in the 59th minute with a shot curling under the top crossbar forcing the dive save from Birighitti.

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