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18 MARCH 2022 ISSUE 013

OVONEWS ISSUE 013 18 MARCH 2022

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Novocastrians dig deep for flooded communities

Advocate for the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Thomas Mayor, visited Newcastle on March 10, seeking the community’s support for a First Nations Voice to Parliament to give Indigenous Australians constitutional recognition.

See page 7

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A staggering 105 students from Merewether High School are participating in the World’s Greatest Shave, hoping to raise $80,000 to help researchers find a cure for leukaemia.

The finest of Novocastrian spirit has emerged in the wake of the devastating floods in northern NSW, as local Hunter businesses and residents pull together to help the states most vulnerable.

See pages 4-5 Newcastle Permanent’s Paul Juergens and Lifeline’s Melissa Sams sort donated clothing.

Photo: Hunter Lifeline

See page 13

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Asbestos contamination still a major concern for community

The Newcastle community is invited to join Piano Day 2022 celebrations by attending a free live music event featuring an intimate and immersive musical experience by some talented local artists.

See page 20

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Hunter kids will have the chance to meet and play with their cricketing heroes when the Sydney Sixers visit on April 1.

See page 23

Despite Islington Park reopening to the public, nearby residents have expressed concerns about what they believe is an “inadequate” response from authorities to ongoing asbestos contamination.

After the devastating fire at the Wickham woolsheds on March 1, City of Newcastle closed Islington Park to enable specialist asbestos crews to remove fragments of asbestoscontaining materials (ACM) with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate arrestance) vacuums.

City of Newcastle said an independent Licenced Asbestos Assessor inspected all areas of the park afterwards and found no visible asbestos remaining.

A clearance certificate was issued on March 13, and the park reopened.

“Air monitoring was undertaken during the clean-up and as part of the clearance inspection with all results coming back clear of airborne asbestos fibres,” a City of Newcastle statement read.

City of Newcastle warned that vehicles or falling trees could introduce the occasional fragment into the area.

However, some residents have said that the clean-up effort was still not good enough.

One Islington resident, who wishes to remain anonymous, has refused to visit the park with her young children despite its reopening.

“Everyone agrees that Islington Park isn’t being dealt with properly … it’s definitely not a thorough job,” she said.

“The school is being dug up and thoroughly cleaned, but that’s not the case for Islington Park, which is situated closer to the fire.”

The woman said her neighbours had encountered numerous asbestos pieces following the park reopening.

She said users were worried that when City of Newcastle resumed mowing and park maintenance services it would disturb dormant fibres.

When asbestos is disturbed, either in its natural form or in an asbestos-

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containing product, fibres can become airborne and easily inhaled.

Asbestos fibres may become trapped in the lungs causing many lifethreatening diseases such as cancer.

“Parents particularly are really worried about it… people are really upset that not enough is being done for the health and safety of local people,” the Islington resident said.

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Continued page 6

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First-of-its-kind cancer hub opens in Kotara A ground-breaking new cancer support facility has officially opened its doors in Kotara providing information and services for families and individuals impacted by cancer.

Eight cancer organisations and charities collaborated to deliver the integrated Hunter Cancer Hub facility, made possible by a $90,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation.

The organisations include Canteen Australia, Camp Quality, Hunter Melanoma Foundation, Sleapy’s Foundation, Leukemia Foundation, Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation, Cancer Council and Little Wings.

Canteen Australia CEO and founding partner, Peter Orchard, said the hub was a one-stop-shop for cancer patients of all ages as well as their families, friends and carers.

“The Hunter Cancer Hub will make what is a challenging time a little easier by having access and connection to Newcastle based cancer services under one roof,” Orchard said.

The hub is conveniently located next to Westfield Kotara.

“Dealing with your own or a loved one’s cancer diagnosis can be one of the most devastating times in a person’s life, and cancer presents an overwhelming set of challenges from accommodation and financial hardship to mental health.”

Orchard said the Hunter Cancer Hub provided simple and accessible support to patients going through an already difficult time.

“This will be a great starting point for individuals, family and friends touched by cancer,” Orchard said.

“If people do not know where to start looking for support, they start with us, and we will help them access the many services that are available.”

Camp Quality CEO, Deborah Thomas, said cancer impacted every family member and that a range of support

was needed at every stage of the experience.

“Families often tell us how overwhelming it is navigating different services, so we are very proud to be part of the Hunter Cancer Hub, a collaborative space that makes life easier for families dealing with cancer,” Thomas said.

Starting in April, the hub will offer a monthly open day for people, families or carers impacted by cancer.

Chair of the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, Jennifer Leslie, said the hub was set to support around 600 people in the first 12 months through on-site appointments, resources and events.

“We’re confident it will make a big difference to a lot of local people,” Leslie said.

“At its simplest, this amazing hub aims to relieve some of the stress families and individuals experience by providing concurrent appointments and a supportive environment.”

More information on the Hunter Cancer Hub can be found on its website.

Maia O’Connor

EOI opens for Summerhill recycling contract City of Newcastle is inviting expressions of interest to collect and process its recyclable waste as it plans to construct a Materials Recovery Facility at Summerhill Waste Management Facility.

A Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) is a local factory where recyclable materials collected from homes and businesses are sorted into different waste streams.

Recycling from Newcastle residents’ yellow-lid bins is currently collected by Solo Waste Pty Ltd and taken to the Summerhill site before being transferred to iQ Renew’s processing facility on the Central Coast.

With both contracts due to expire in November, City of Newcastle opened expressions of interest (EOI) for the services on March 12 ahead of a selective tender process set to take place in mid-2022.

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Construction of the MRF, in addition to the planned organics recycling facility, would allow all of Newcastle’s domestic waste to be processed at the one location.

Photo: City of Newcastle

City of Newcastle said it was conscious about the need to cater to additional growth in the future of the recyclables market and publishing an EOI ensured all processing options were given due consideration.

Council is seeking to ensure facilitation, development and support of the local circular economy as well as maximising the economic benefit from recyclable materials.

The EOI seeks to provide options to consider the processing of recyclable waste from the Newcastle community and across the Hunter, including a separable portion allocated to the design, construction and operation of a new Materials Recycling Facility at Summerhill.

The project received a $5 million boost from the Federal and NSW Governments in August last year, and City of Newcastle had prepared concept designs in conjunction with site master planning

to ensure the optimal location of the facility.

The MRF is planned to be scalable and designed to allow for flexibility to cater to changes in the way we recycle and the growth in recycling efforts.

Construction of the MRF, in addition to the planned advanced organics recycling facility, would allow Newcastle’s red, yellow and green-bin domestic waste to be processed at one location.

City of Newcastle said it was committed to increasing its capabilities for the recycling and reusing of waste products under its new Sustainable Waste Strategy, which is currently being drafted.

Council revealed plans for the Summerhill Waste Management Facility to play a key role in the region’s move towards a circular economy and its ability to address future NSW and Federal Government targets on waste diversion and recycling.

Information source: City of Newcastle

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Discord over nuclear sub-base in Newcastle

The Department of Defence identified Newcastle, Port Kembla and Brisbane as the most suitable location to house the country’s future nuclear-powered fleet.

Photo: Australian Navy/POIS Yuri Ramsey

Newcastle has been announced as one of three cities shortlisted for a new nuclear-powered submarine base, provoking some mixed reactions from the community.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced plans on March 7 to construct a new nuclear submarine base off the Australian east coast.

The Department of Defence identified Newcastle, Port Kembla and Brisbane as the most suitable location to house the country’s future nuclear-powered fleet with more than $10 billion needed for infrastructure requirements.

The fleet would be acquired under AUKUS, the trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, which aims to assist Australia in acquiring nuclearpowered submarines.

Prime Minister Morrison said in a national security speech on March 7 that the decision would not be rushed, which included discussions around pursuing a US or UK design.

“We don’t anticipate that decision will be made before the election … and noone should expect it to,” Morrison said.

“This is a trilateral partnership, not a procurement contest … this is a partnership where the decisions are made together.”

Newcastle Liberal leader and councillor, Callum Pull, submitted a notice of motion to the Federal Government conveying the support for constructing the base in Newcastle.

Cr Pull said Newcastle needed to make a strong show of support to secure the project and not risk it falling into the hands of Port Kembla or Brisbane.

“This isn’t some fantasy project, this project is happening, so we need to be ready to reach out and seize the opportunity,” Cr Pull said.

“This is our chance to develop new industries, secure the future of our region and once again become a hub for industry & innovation.

“It’s all about jobs and the future prosperity of our city … Projects and huge investments like this don’t arrive every day.”

Cr Pull said the project would lead to high-paid and high-skilled jobs providing a new industrial base for Newcastle and the Hunter.

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“We’re competing against two other major cities, we need to make clear that we want the base, we want the jobs, and that we’re ready to do what is necessary to secure the project,” Cr Pull said.

However, Federal Greens candidate for Newcastle and councillor Charlotte McCabe said a nuclear submarine base in Newcastle was an “absurd and dangerous choice”.

“It’s clear that no due diligence has been done in suggesting Newcastle as a location,” Cr McCabe said.

“Newcastle has been a declared nuclear-free zone since 1982, and our port has serious existing hazards with huge ammonium nitrate stockpiles and diesel storage colocated in an earthquake zone.

“Our port is now 50 per cent owned

by China merchants presenting serious sovereignty risks for any defence facility.

“As the threat of nuclear war is escalating, this facility would clearly make Newcastle a nuclear target.”

She said Newcastle didn’t need weapons manufacturing to diversify and grow the local economy and instead suggested the government invest in clean technologies and industries of the future.

Around 40 unionists and community members gathered in Newcastle on March 11 in protest against the proposed submarine base, where Hunter Peace Group secretary Lynda Forbes addressed the crowd.

“The amount of money that is being

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spent on these submarines is rather disgusting, when there are people out there coping with bushfires and floods and struggling just to put food on the table and keep a roof over their heads,” Forbes said.

Additionally, March 16 saw a community network meeting organised

by Climate Action Newcastle where local community members and groups were able to voice their concerns.

The Newcastle City Council first declared Newcastle as a nuclear-free zone under Lord Mayor Joy Cummings AM in 1982.

On August 6, 2021, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes reaffirmed this long-held commitment during Hiroshima Day and the 76th anniversary of the devastating bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by US forces.

“The City of Newcastle has a long and proud history of activism against nuclear weapons, particularly as a city with a large working port,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Former Newcastle Lord Mayor Joy Cummings was a passionate advocate for the peace movement, inspiring strong community support and joining with Hunter Peace Group, trade unionists and activists to hold demonstrations on the importance of nuclear disarmament and protecting Newcastle as a Nuclear Free City and port.

“I am honoured to uphold that mission on behalf of the city, in which there is no place for nuclear weapons in modern society.”

Hayley McMahon

Around 40 unionists and community members gathered on March 11 in protest against the proposed submarine base in Newcastle.

Photo: Kathy Fairfax, GreenLeft

Spirit Super works hard for Newcastle

Consider the PDS and TMD available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. Issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (AFSL 238718, ABN 14 008 650 628).

Liam, Teterin Engineering Hardworking Novocastrian

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Novocastrians dig deep

The finest of Novocastrian spirit has emerged in the wake of the devastating floods in northern NSW, as local Hunter businesses and residents pull together to help the states most vulnerable.

The major flooding event, which saw the Wilsons River rise two metres above previous flood records, inundated residents in Lismore and surrounding areas, destroying homes and businesses in its path.

Hunter residents Chris Arnold, Paul Neal and Martin Rotolo were among Novocastrians who rolled up their sleeves to assist devastated communities.

“Seeing what’s happening up there, you feel so fortunate in your current position—we’ve got a roof over our head, food to eat and somewhere to sleep… then you’ve got people up north who have lost everything,” Arnold said.

Arnold, Neal and Rotolo loaded a vehicle up on March 14 with donations they had received from the community, including gift cards and household items.

The trio landed in Coraki, a town destroyed by the floods due to its unfortunate position between three different river systems.

“The place was like a war zone – we were driving down streets past rubble piles taller than us,” Arnold said.

“The people there have nothing… they have no power and must start from scratch. So they’re mentally exhausted.”

Along with distributing donations, Arnold’s group dedicated most of their time to a 60-year-old Coraki woman whose home was devastated in the floods.

As well as the trauma of losing her home, the woman’s elderly husband was in hospital after suffering a heart attack during the event.

“She had been through so much, and there was no way she could physically be able to do the work herself,” Arnold said.

“Her walls were full of mud up to three feet high, and all the floors were covered in a mixture of sewerage overflow and mud …you could even smell decaying animals.”

Arnold said they ripped up the masonite and linoleum flooring and mopped and pressure cleaned the woman’s entire house—a task which saw their generator run solidly for two and a half days.

“When we first met her, she was in this state of trauma and shock, she couldn’t think straight, and she didn’t know where to start,” he said.

“By the end of our time there, her spirits had been lifted…it’s a good feeling to know that we made some difference.”

Arnold proposed a trip in the future for businesses and individuals in the Hunter wanting to get involved.

“It’d be great to pull together with some larger organisations and hire a couple of coaches to bring people to assist with the recovery,” Arnold said.

The donations of clothing, shoes and linen have filled more than 120 pallets and weighed around 20,000 kilograms.

Photo by: Hunter Lifeline

143 backpacks for schoolchildren have been delivered to flood-affected regions thanks to The Backpack Venture.

Photo: The Backpack Venture

“If we get a busload of 50 people who slog it out for 24 hours – it would be incredibly helpful to affected communities and is a minuscule effort in the big scheme of things.”

He said someone’s donation of time outweighed what someone could give.

“They need volunteers on the ground to clear and clean people’s houses and to help sort through these donations … they can’t take on donations like furniture yet because it takes up so much space,” Arnold said.

“We were three blokes in only one home, and there were hundreds of homes in Coraki.

“They need a lot of help on the ground and thousands of volunteers to devote some time to make a difference, especially skilled tradies.”

Among others stepping up to the cause were Dayne and Miki Poole from Hunter Area Plumbing in Cessnock, who travelled to Mullumbimby for four days after the disaster personally impacted their family.

They issued a call for donations on their business social media account, and Dayne said the response from the Cessnock community had “been incredible”.

“We initially were going to take a trailer load up, but with all the donations, we had to hire an extra van … the support has been overwhelming.”

Poole said the vehicles were packed full of donations, including drinking water, nappies, pet food and cleaning products, so much so that they had to turn generous locals away as they couldn’t fit anymore in.

Schoolchildren front of mind for one charity The Backpack Venture is urging the community to give anything they can and has liaised directly with local school principals who have requested over 2,000 backpacks for flood-affected children.

While 302 backpacks have already been delivered to affected areas, a further 746 backpacks will be delivered to flood affected children on March 21.

There have also been 28 local businesses that have reached out to become drop-off locations to continue the cause, including Wilton Electrical in Cooks Hill, Coles Medowie and Nova Air and Electrical in Tighes Hill.

Founder Catherine Woodbine said that “it’s not only the community who are donating the items, but it’s also the businesses who are opening their doors to the community and providing space to store the backpacks until we can collect them.”

Local Hunter Valley company Require Services offered the organisation unlimited free transport to fulfil all backpack delivery requests.

“I just cried – everybody is jumping on board and doing what they can, and I’m so overwhelmed by how supportive everyone is,” Woodbine said.

Woodbine said that 1369 backpacks were still required to go further north, and the initiative would continue until all requests were filled.

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for flooded communities

Paul Neal, Chris Arnold and Martin Rotolo dedicated most of their time to a 60-year-old Coraki woman whose home was devastated in the floods.

Overwhelming response to Lifeline clothing appeal Non-profit organisation Lifeline said it was overwhelmed with the community’s response to its clothing appeal issued only last week.

Lifeline Hunter’s people and capability manager Melissa Sams said the donations of clothing, shoes and linen to its Hamilton North warehouse have filled more than 120 pallets and weighed around 20,000 kilograms.

Sams described the response of locals and businesses as “overwhelming, heart-warming but not unexpected” and revealed that Newcastle Permanent would fund transport and distribution costs for the donated items.

Newcastle Permanent executives and staff recently volunteered to sort items at the warehouse prior to transportation.

Owner of Warners Bay lingerie store, Penny Dudding, offered 20 boxes of new bras to the Lifeline Appeal, and Carrington based manufacturer Thales

is providing extra storage space to cope with the volume of donations.

“As people drop off items, they’re telling us they are devastated for people, including their own family members, who have lost everything in the floods and want to do something to help and show their support,” Sams said.

Sams said the donated items would likely leave Newcastle in a week or so when they were needed the most and could be effectively distributed.

“We’re working with other charities and agencies in a co-ordinated way as there will be an ongoing need for support.”

Lifeline is still accepting donations at 27/54 Clyde Street, Hamilton North, from 8 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday.

While all donations are welcome, men’s clothing, kids clothing and quality shoes are particularly needed.

Lifeline is also urging anyone who is struggling to cope with the flooding emergency and other world events taking place, whether they live in a flood-affected community or not, to call 13 11 14.

Maia O’Connor

Penny Dudding, owner of Warners Bay lingerie store You Really Are Beautiful, donated around 500 new bras to flood-affected women.

Photo: Hunter Lifeline

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Asbestos contamination still a major concern for community

Islington Park was reopened on March 14 after an independent asbestos assessor cleared it.

Photo: Andrew Owens

From page 1

She said residents held fears for potential recontamination of the park due to neighbouring roofs, roads and public spaces not being cleaned because of insufficient funding allocations.

“Residents want a removal of contaminated soil from the park and everybody’s roofs cleaned to stop recontamination, especially anytime the wind picks up.”

As for the neighbouring community, there have been calls for free testing of samples and the provision of social services such as counselling for impacted residents.

“It’s an environmental disaster.

Residents want it to be declared a disaster zone so continuity of care can be applied across the whole affected area,” the resident said.

She said locals had taken it upon themselves to clean the area up by using domestic hoses and personally financing independent assessors to inspect homes.

“We’re all anxious about it, and people are really suffering,” she said.

“Instead of reaching out to authorities when we find something, the authorities should be more proactive in the cleanup and in asbestos education efforts.

“It was a couple of days before I knew the material was asbestos – I cleaned up

what I thought was ash, then I heard about the asbestos.

“It was really upsetting – I’m not sure if I’ve exposed my family.”

She added that a lack of proactive or empathetic response had made the Islington and neighbouring community feel “isolated”.

After the community raised concerns, she said an EPA officer told residents it would “build resilience”.

“We’re just renting in Islington, and my husband and I have considered moving to another suburb,” she said.

“Not enough is being done, and the response has been inadequate.”

Conrad Curry Lawyers solicitor and fellow Islington resident, Katherine Fielden, said she had personally met with neighbours at Islington Park and found asbestos pieces between Morgan Street and the edge of the cricket ground.

“This is not safe or acceptable. Please call Newcastle Council, the EPA and DPWS to get our park cleaned up properly,” she said.

“My concern is also about the Department of Public Works and Services cost-cutting.

They are responsible for the clean-up of homes and properties not owned by Council.”

She said that while the authorities were doing their best, an unprecedented asbestos contamination disaster

required an appropriate response from City of Newcastle and other authorities.

“A response I would like to see is for authorities to close Islington Park and remove the topsoil and rubber soft fall mats in play areas and the mulch in garden beds.”

Fielden is pushing for a clean-up of property interiors within the affected zone and for authorities to conduct regular swab tests.

She said continual air monitoring and audits to track asbestos levels on the ground, within stormwater drains and in waterways was important.

“I want this to occur so if there are missed fragments in the clean-up that start recontamination, we can identify the source and contain the asbestos before it causes health injuries,” she said.

Fielden said she is also seeking further action and may explore the option of filing a civil negligence claim against the Wickam woolsheds developer, Investec.

“I think if it weren’t for the floods in the Northern Rivers, we would have seen the insides of our homes cleaned, our roofs cleaned and a commitment to ongoing monitoring via air quality monitors and random swabs,” she said.

“Instead, the best disaster response teams from the DPWS are in Lismore.”

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes responded to concerns on social media on March 15, assuring residents that the park would be reassessed.

“I’ve raised community concerns regarding reports of material still present at Islington Park with the Emergency Operations Centre team this morning,” she said.

“I’m advised crews are on site this morning to re-inspect and re-clean.”

City of Newcastle has urged community members to report further findings of fragments to the EPA’s environment line on 131 555.

Maia O’Connor

Residents say they are still finding persisting asbestos pieces within their neighbourhood.

Photo: Katherine Fielden

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Uluru Statement from the Heart comes to Newcastle

The Uluru Statement represents a historic consensus of Indigenous leaders who seek constitutional change and structural reforms.

Advocate for the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Thomas Mayor, visited Newcastle on March 10, seeking the community’s support for a First Nations Voice to Parliament to give Indigenous Australians constitutional recognition.

Mayor is a National Indigenous Officer of the Maritime Union of Australia and author of Finding The Heart of The Nation: The journey of the Uluru Statement towards Voice, Treaty and Truth.

The Torres Strait Islander man born in Larrakia Country in Darwin has been travelling for 18 months around Australia with the sacred canvas of the Uluru Statement garnering support for a constitutionally enshrined First Nations Voice to Parliament and a Makarrata Commission for truth-telling and treaty-making.

Newcastle community members, council representatives, trade union representatives and community organisations gathered on March 10 to hear Mayor speak at Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon’s office.

“It was such an hour to be able to host Thomas – we had a packed room full of people from a vast range of community organisations, networks and just genuinely interested individuals,” Claydon said.

“The Uluru Statement is a generous gift to the nation – inviting us to walk together with First Nations people in a movement to build a better future.”

In May 2017, over 250 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Delegates from across Australia gathered in Mutitjulu, in the Northern Territory and put their

signatures on the historic Uluru Statement.

Mayor said the statement represented a historic consensus of Indigenous leaders who sought constitutional change and structural reforms.

“The Uluru Statement is a culmination of many lessons throughout the history of colonisation about how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples can be recognised and empowered in this country,” Mayor said.

“It’s a statement that covers this history in a really eloquent and powerful way and describes what is ultimately the torment of our powerlessness, our structural exclusion and the decisions that are made for us.

“The Uluru Statement invites the Australian people to walk with us and help us enshrine a First Nations Voice to Parliament and establish a Makarrata Constitution for truth-telling and agreement making.”

Mayor said a constitutionally enshrined Voice to Parliament would enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to advise the Parliament on policies and projects that affected them.

“Symbolically, constitutional recognition for all Indigenous Australians would produce a unified and mature country where First Nations people could finally take their rightful place,” Mayor said.

“It would mean First Nations people would be a part of decision-making at all levels of government.

“We have rich knowledge and have been custodians of this land for over 60,000 years—our contribution to decision-making would have a very beneficial effect.

“I think all sides of government could agree that when it comes to decisions concerning Indigenous Australians, the best decisions are made when we are involved, so this structural reform would help amplify our voice and guarantee that we are heard.”

Claydon said if Labor formed government at the next federal election, a referendum on a First Nations voice would be a priority.

“Forty-five years ago, the nation backed in the 1967 Referendum to

change the Constitution so that the Commonwealth could make laws in respect of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and included them in the census,” Claydon said.

“Now we have the chance to make good on the unfinished business that remains.

“I’m calling on the Newcastle community to get involved with the campaign to support the Uluru Statement from the Heart. It’s been a long journey, and there is still much work to be done.”

Mayor said that polling by Crosby Textor indicated that almost 60 per cent of Australians would vote ‘yes’ in a referendum.

“There’s over 20 per cent of Australians who are still undecided, so if we share the Uluru Statement and encourage others to read it, we could really turn those undecided votes into ‘yes’ votes and push this forward.”

Mayor said another important action that community members could take was writing to local politicians and representatives.

“We will work with whoever wins the federal election towards a referendum, and we think that we can move it along quickly because most Australians already support this,” Mayor said.

“With the right political leadership and support in our communities, we can certainly win a historic referendum, just like we did in 1967 when we were counted in the census, so … be ready, I say.”

To read the full Uluru Statement from the Heart, visit ulurustatement.org.

Hayley McMahon

Advocate for the Uluru Statement from the Heart, Thomas Mayor, met and spoke with Newcastle community organisations on March 10.

Photo: Sharon Claydon MP

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Newcastle’s iconic Tower Cinemas sold The Tower Cinemas operated for 42 years.

Photo: Iconic Cinemas

The Tower Cinemas in Newcastle’s CBD has been quietly sold, which comes as a shock to many in the community who wished for a cinema to remain in the King Street location.

Owned by Event Hospitality and Entertainment Limited, the Tower Cinemas first opened its doors in April 1976, providing much-loved entertainment to the Newcastle community until its closure in December 2018.

The iconic Tower Cinemas was the last remaining operating cinema in Newcastle’s inner city and an iconic venue in the local community.

A half-yearly results report released by Event revealed the company had sold the Newcastle venue in late 2021 along with a number of other ‘non-core assets’ including Bankstown, Canberra Civic and QT Falls Creek.

The details of the sale, the buyer, the price, or the plans for the building remain unknown.

Community advocate, Sinead FrancisCoan, initiated the Save the Tower Cinemas campaign following the announcement of its closure in 2018— her online petition garnered more than 7000 signatures.

Francis-Coan said she was disappointed and frustrated with the quiet sale of the building considering the community’s continued interest in keeping the cinema open.

“The two main requests of this campaign have been for the Tower Cinemas to remain as a cinema under different management and for Event to inform the community of their intentions,” Francis-Coan said.

“At every step of the way I have attempted to communicate directly with Event.

“I sent them the petition and an open letter and invited them to address a public meeting held in June 2019 which was declined.

“Given the interest we have expressed it was highly disappointing to learn of

this news from an online report.”

Francis-Coan said the campaign also predicted an increased necessity for a cinema in the CBD as the number of inner-city residents increased.

“To my knowledge, the Tower Cinemas are the last cinema of their era that remain structurally intact without significant changes. The building is part of our built and social heritage,” she said.

“Since learning of this half-yearly report, I have again contacted Event directly by phone and subsequently via email in an attempt to gain further information about the reported sale.

“I have received no response to my enquiry. It is high time Event inform the community and demonstrate transparency given the significance of the Towers.”

According to the Newcastle Herald, Event confirmed the sale and stated that finalisation procedures would occur within the next few months.

“The decision to close the cinema was based on our strong commitment to keep reinvesting in our other venues in the region,” the statement read.

Director of Iconic Cinemas, Steven Pritchard, said the establishment of his company came off the back of a negotiation with Event to lease the premises.

“In 2019, I decided to contact Event and ask them if they would be prepared to lease the premises to a locally owned company to re-open the cinemas,” Pritchard said.

“Event, through their agent, subsequently indicated that they would consider leasing the building for use as a cinema.

“This was what led to the establishment of Iconic Cinemas, whose object was to

negotiate a lease of the premises from Event and engage various consultants and tradespeople to provide advice on what was required to re-open the cinemas.”

Pritchard said despite their early negotiations and engagement of tradespeople to do initial works, Event decided that it was not their preferred option to lease the Tower Cinemas as a cinema.

“They didn’t tell us that they were selling. I expected that they would sell though, considering that they have been selling a number of properties around Australia,” Pritchard said.

“The ones they have sold have restrictions on the future use of those buildings.

“I would expect that the Tower Cinemas has restrictions as well, stopping it from re-opening as a cinema in the future.”

Pritchard said Iconic Cinemas was now looking at alternative venues that might be used to bring a cinema back to Newcastle.

“I think the only way we will get a cinema back in the city is a locally funded one, with community support and fundraising. So we want to work towards that over the next couple of months,” Pritchard said.

“They did this in Sawtell, NSW, where the local cinema shut, and the people got together and raised $2 million and bought the premises. They refitted it and leased it out to Majestic Cinemas.

“We would need a lot more money if we were to do that in Newcastle. We would also need to find a large enough space that didn’t have columns, that had a relatively high ceiling and adequate parking— so it will be difficult, but it’s worth trying.”

Hayley McMahon

Futureproofing the Hunter business sector An innovative business and employment festival has promised to inspire business owners and job seekers from March 21, shedding light on the region’s future economy and creating new work opportunities for locals.

The inaugural Futureproof festival will bring together nine key events held across the Hunter region from March 21 and 25.

The festival coincides with small business month and is organised by Hunter’s entrepreneurship facilitator, Cheryl Royle, and employment facilitator, Karla Notman.

Royle said the festival would showcase emerging and innovative growth industries and offer attendees insight into how the Hunter region could adapt and change.

She said the action-packed festival covers everything from employment opportunities in the disability sector to tips for setting up a small business.

“The Futureproof Festival will bridge the information deficit gap and provide the region’s industries, businesses,

parents and job seekers a chance to see the opportunities in our backyard as we pivot, pioneer and prosper,” Royle said.

Notman said another important outcome of the festival was to highlight skills of the future and pathways to employment.

“With innovation, automation and emerging technology shaping the

future of work, the reputation of the Hunter as a hub for future jobs continues to grow,” Notman said.

“Already home to a thriving defence precinct, world-class advanced manufacturing and a flourishing tourism sector, the Hunter continually shows itself to be an adaptable and resilient region.”

This year’s event organisers are the Hunter region’s entrepreneurship facilitator Cheryl Royle and employment facilitator, Karla Notman.

A trade fair hosted by the Scone Chamber of Commerce is set to kick the festival off before experts in the energy, health and defence field host a seminar to discuss the region’s future in those industries.

A workshop will be on offer on March 23 for small businesses interested in providing services to people living with disabilities but who do not want to become a registered NDIS provider.

The event organisers boast impressive experience in the business world, with Royle among 23 government-funded entrepreneurship facilitators in the country, and runs the Australian Government funded Hunter Futurepreurship program.

Co-organiser Notman is currently the chair of the Hunter Local Jobs and Skills Taskforce and one of 25 governmentfunded employment facilitators supporting the delivery of the $62.8 million Local Jobs Program in 51 regions across Australia.

For more information or the event schedule, visit the Futureproof festival website.

Maia O’Connor

novonews.com.au

@novonewsau

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New jobs created at Williamtown base Australia’s largest defence and security company will create 55 new skilled engineering jobs in the Hunter through expanding its Williamtown base.

Through support provided by the NSW Government’s $250 million Jobs Plus Program, BAE Systems Australia will expand the Williamtown base, providing jobs and helping to strengthen the region’s export capability.

The government funding will support the creation of an additional set of

regionally focused bays at the aircraft sustainment hub, complementing the new bays planned to be built by BAE Systems.

Minister for Enterprise, Investment and Trade Stuart Ayres said the Jobs Plus Program support would create 55 maintenance and engineering jobs by 2030 and support 147 indirect jobs by 2024.

Additionally, as part of the hub, BAE Systems will manage an F-35 SouthAsia Pacific Regional Depot.

BAE Systems Australia CEO Gabby

The Hunter region is set to receive 55 new engineering jobs due to the expansion of the Williamtown base.

Photo: Australian Airforce

Costigan said the Jobs Plus Program was vital in maximising the sovereign capability being developed in Williamtown, which would help sustain the Australian F-35 fleet.

“The facilities developed here will be a beacon for global F-35 fleets operating within and near our region,” Costigan said.

“BAE Systems Australia will continue working with our supply chain partners in the Hunter Valley to identify and secure new opportunities that build on the solid foundation of leading-edge aircraft support we have developed over two decades at Williamtown.”

She said the regional bays would be export-focused, attracting overseas aircraft and sustainment contracts.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the investment would promote the growth of skilled jobs in regional NSW. “This Australian-first facility will increase the number of international aircraft that can be maintained at Williamtown and make regional NSW more competitive for future defence export opportunities,” Toole said.

“The NSW Government has already invested more than $16 million to develop infrastructure and skills in the Hunter region to strengthen its defence and aerospace industry, through the

Astra Aerolab Defence Aviation Technology Precinct and the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct.”

Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Taylor Martin, said the size of BAE’s supply chain meant more opportunities for local businesses.

“BAE Systems has more than 1,600 businesses as part of its supply chain.

This investment will increase the number of workers and businesses operating here in the Williamtown Special Activation Precinct and drive benefits for the entire supply chain through enhanced networking, information exchange and skills development,” Martin said.

The NSW Government’s Jobs Plus Program supports eligible companies to establish and expand their footprint in NSW, including payroll tax relief, streamlined planning approvals and subsidised training programs, along with rebates for enabling infrastructure.

Australian businesses that currently employ 20 or more staff and international companies with at least 80 current employees looking to establish a minimum of 30 new jobs in NSW before June 2024 are eligible to apply for the Jobs Plus Program.

Hayley McMahon Information source: Stuart Ayres MP

Stage two upgrade plans revealed for No.1 Sportsground A major refurbishment of Newcastle’s No.1 Sportsground grandstand has been proposed transforming the facility into an elite level sporting venue.

City of Newcastle has applied for a $5 million grant from the NSW Government to complete the project.

The staged works include an increase in the footprint of the existing grandstand with a two-storey addition at the rear of the building providing upgraded amenities for players, officials and spectators.

Other upgrades include increasing the size of the playing field to achieve the minimum standard required for a first grade AFL match, constructing seven new cricket wickets and re-building the entire playing surface with a new subsoil irrigation and drainage system.

New sight screens, player dug-out benches and oval fencing will also improve the playing experience.

The current proposed construction is the second stage of the overall redevelopment of No.1 Sportsground, which began with a major upgrade of the playing facilities, lighting and seating capacity.

Stage one included the installation of

six new 40 metre light poles and upgraded lighting to 750 lux.

The increased electrical conduit allows for a further increase in lux level if required for televised night-time fixtures.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said a refurbished grandstand would be the icing on the cake to attract first-class cricket and AFL matches to Newcastle’s inner-city sportsground.

“With the first stage of the redevelopment approaching its end, City of Newcastle is turning its attention to the design and funding arrangements for the next phase, which will deliver premium-level facilities that will not only benefit local users but allow Newcastle to attract even more major sporting events to the city,” Cr Nelmes said.

She said City of Newcastle was committed to the future of the facility and the wider National Park recreational precinct.

“We have already invested more than $7 million into the redevelopment of No.1 Sportsground and have recently submitted a $5 million grant application to the Multi-Sport Facility Fund through the NSW Government to complete the works,” Cr Nelmes said.

Upgraded amenities seek to attract sporting fixtures such as trial Big Bash League and trial AFL fixtures.

Photo: City of Newcastle

“If successful, that funding will allow us to deliver the regional sporting facility our community deserves, which is capable of hosting elite-level AFL and cricket matches.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Infrastructure Advisory Committee Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz said the concept designs included a range of benefits for both spectators and players.

“Concept designs prepared for City of Newcastle with input from both Cricket NSW and AFL NSW/ACT illustrate our grand plans for this site, with the ground floor featuring new universal player facilities, dedicated spaces for team doctors and medical staff and upgraded rooms for match officials,” Cr WinneyBaartz said “The building’s new second storey will provide a panoramic view over the sportsground, with floor-to-ceiling windows running the entire length of a multipurpose community function room and team viewing areas, while commercial kitchen facilities will open

up a range of opportunities never previously available at this venue.

“Upgraded public toilets will also improve the amenity for spectators, complementing the extended concrete bleacher seating constructed during the first phase of the redevelopment, which has almost doubled the ground’s current seated capacity.”

While wet La Niña weather conditions and COVID-19 supply chain issues have extended the stage one construction phase, work is now nearing completion with sporting teams expected to be back on the pitch following a final growing-in period for the existing turf.

The facility’s last significant upgrade was in 1989 after the original timber grandstand sustained major structural damage in the Newcastle Earthquake.

The sportsground was officially opened on September 16 1922, with the proposed upgrade coinciding with its centenary.

Information source: City of Newcastle

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Local MP’s and cabbies wage fare fight with government

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said licence owners deserved fair compensation.

Photo: Sonia Hornery MP

Over 50 state and federal members of parliament have signed the NSW Taxi Industry pledge, seeking to secure a better operating environment and compensation for taxi license owners impacted by state government reforms.

The NSW Taxi Council said taxi licence owners lost the value of their licences after the NSW Government changed the rules governing the point-to-point transport industry in 2016 and legalised rideshare operations.

The NSW Taxi Industry pledge supports the continuation of the Passenger Service Levy to ensure taxi licence owners receive “fair and proper compensation” for their losses on all licences and demands a “viable, affordable, regulated and reliable taxi industry that is available to all passengers in all areas of NSW”.

Some local members who have signed the NSW Taxi Industry pledge include State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery, State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp and State Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison.

State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery lamented the loss of the licence value that NSW operators had experienced and said many licence holders were people who had come to Australia to build a better life for their families.

“They planned on using the value of their licences to fund their retirement after a lifetime of hard work,” Hornery said.

Craig Richards from the Taxi Owners Small Business Association explained that taxi businesses first encountered difficulty when rideshare companies entered the market in 2014 before the state government “pretty much deregulated the industry overnight”.

“All business models in the point–to– point transport industry should have the same rules and regulations, and the legislation to date hasn’t provided for that,” Richards said.

An independent report commissioned by the NSW Taxi Council and the Taxi Owners Small Business Association concluded that over $1.5 billion was decimated from the value of licences across NSW due to the government’s 2015/2016 deregulation reform process.

He said the solution to repay operators and “restore the financial dignity for 5,000 small businesses” within the industry was simple.

“We’ve created a funding model of how that money can be paid to the industry through the government over the next 15 to 20 years without any net cost, and that’s through the Passenger Service Levy,” Richards said.

The Berejiklian Government introduced the Passenger Service Levy in 2018 that adds one dollar to every taxi and rideshare fare across NSW. “In a good year that brings in 75 to 80 billion dollars to the NSW Government,” Richards said.

Hunter cabbies describe disappointment Richards said rideshare companies entering the market saw some plates in Newcastle worth $225,000 to $250,000 reduced to zero.

“We’ve had locals in the business who eight years ago were looking to retire, however now some of those people are still working 50 to 60 hours a week in a business that they can’t compete in due to the rideshare model,” Richards said.

“They’re still trying to pay that debt off.

“Sadly, I’m aware of instances in the Hunter where some of those people have passed away, and their taxis are sitting out the front of houses with a family left with a business now worth zero, nobody to operate the licence for them … some families still have a debt on that business.”

Selena Harp, who owns two licences and has operated in the industry for

over a decade, said government decision-making had caused “nothing but heartache” for local cabbies.

“Overnight it went from a brilliant business to something that was losing money … licence values dropped immediately, and our takings halved,” Harp said.

“For two plates, I paid $380,000, and overnight some people were offering me $30,000 for one and $10,000 for another.”

Harp lamented the painful process to access compensation so far and explained that it was too difficult for local drivers where English wasn’t their first language to fill out basic forms.

For some licence holders, the process had proved too overwhelming.

“Taxi owners have taken their lives, people have lost their homes … everyone is in so much debt over the reforms,” Harp said.

She said that when owners initially bought licences, they were under the impression that their investment was secure.

“You looked at licences like superannuation or an investment property – when you retire, you can lease the plates out,” she said.

“We know there’s no guarantee when you buy a property, but when we bought the plates, we signed a contract with the government that said we would be the only point–to–point service provider.”

She said the worst part of the mental anguish was the “betrayal” of the state government, which heavily regulated the taxi industry while giving the green light for rideshare competitors to operate freely.

A fellow plate owner, who only wishes to be known as Rod, urged Novocastrians to support local taxi services.

“You’ve got to consider that all those fees that rideshare charges, like their 25 per cent surcharge, all that money is going overseas whereas when you catch a taxi, that money is staying in Australia,” Rod said.

Licence owners reject newest reform proposals Richards said Harp and Rod were among 5,000 small business owners impacted across NSW. “These businesses employ drivers, operators, and if you include their families, we’re looking at this poor policy setting affecting more than 100,000 people across NSW,” he said.

He criticised recent reform proposals and said one of the latest examples the government had offered was the cancellation and compensation of $50,000 per cancelled licence, capped at two licences.

“It’s akin to the government saying to the people of NSW we’re going to take your house off you, but we’re going to offer you less than 15 per cent of the market value of that property, but if you want to, you can lease it back off us for an annual fee.”

Among other proposals is the removal of the current cap on taxi licences statewide and the elimination of current regulations restricting taxi movements throughout areas.

If adopted, Richards said many small businesses would fail, and the impacts would come full circle.

“And once those small taxi businesses collapse, who will be providing and funding transport in those areas?”

Richards said.

“The government will have to step in and pay the bill.

“If the taxi business model collapses, or the reform process isn’t right, and people walk away from the industry, the rideshare business model will have the monopoly, and prices could triple if there’s no competition in the marketplace.

“We need to get the reform process right to create a viable and sustainable taxi business model that can compete over the next 80 years.”

Maia O’Connor

novonews.com.au

@novonewsau

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Newcastle Ocean Baths saga continues Friends of Newcastle Ocean Baths (FONOB) has requested the NSW Minister for Local Government Wendy Tuckerman investigate what the group say are “a number of serious community concerns” relating to the Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrades.

The announcement comes two days after the City of Newcastle closed the baths for extensive renovation works on March 14.

While FONOB said that it welcomed the long-overdue works to enhance the pool’s pumping system and make the dilapidated pool area safe, it said there was a pattern of “apparent inconsistencies” with the NSW Government Tendering Guidelines.

It also expressed concerns for potential additional costs arising from “an apparent rushed tendering process”.

“We understand the NSW Government has invested $3 million into this project… Minister Tuckerman and the regional community must be confident that City of Newcastle has followed the government’s Tendering Guidelines to avoid serious cost-blowouts, substantial delays and derive value for money,” a FONOB statement read.

“We understand Minister Tuckerman highly values NSW local councils’ full openness, transparency, accountability and genuine public consultation … and our evidence suggests City of Newcastle may have been deficient in these critical areas of the $14.5 million Newcastle Ocean Baths Stage 1 project.”

City of Newcastle rejected the claims and said they had “comprehensively and repeatedly responded to questions regarding Stage 1 works at Newcastle Ocean Baths”.

“The claim of tendering irregularities

by FONOB is the latest in a long line of stunts designed to prevent the restoration of the Baths,” a spokesperson said.

“Each and every claim they make is made directly to the media and without any communication to City of Newcastle engineers.”

Stage 1 works on the baths commenced on March 14.

Photo: City of Newcastle

FONOB voiced additional concerns regarding City of Newcastle’s relationships with community groups such as their own, and other stakeholders who held “alternative views on similar contentious planning and related issues”.

“There has been insufficient public consultation on key changes at the baths, including the new proposed concrete floor and belated public disclosure of the REF – apparently undertaken by GHD, the project’s chief design consultant,” a FONOB statement said.

“We encourage City of Newcastle to act in good faith to protect and preserve the existing natural rock shelf from the imposition of a new, unwelcomed, massive $1.5 million concrete floor until Heritage NSW and Minister Tuckerman have completed an independent expert review process.”

FONOB spokesperson Tony Brown

said the proposed concrete base would “seriously detract from the priceless benefits” of the existing natural rock shelf and the stabilised layer of soft sand was “invaluable” to the baths experience.

City of Newcastle has maintained that engagement with the wider community was sufficient and that “the design was heavily shaped through the iterative feedback provided through the Community Reference Group (CRG) design review process including FONOB feedback”.

The CRG was formed in March 2020 and included representatives from FONOB, Hunter Regional Committee of the National Trust, Newcastle East Residents Group, Pirates Swimming Club, nine community representatives, and representatives from Access and Guraki Aboriginal advisory committees.

“City of Newcastle has received many letters and feedback from community

members in support of restoration of this iconic site,” a City of Newcastle spokesperson said.

A spokesperson from the Office of Local Government said correspondence had been received from FONOB and that it would be reviewed.

However, the spokesperson said that tendering decisions were a matter for individual councils, subject to their own tendering provisions and those of the Local Government Act 1993 and the Local Government (General) Regulation.

The request to Minister Tuckerman is a second attempt by FONOB to halt intended works at the site.

On March 4, the group announced that it had applied to Heritage NSW for urgent interim heritage protection to prevent the installation of a concrete cap on the natural rock shelf bottom.

Maia O’Connor

Every bequest brings us closer to defeating cancer in her lifetime.

For more information contact Mella Moore today.

T: 1300 780 113 • W: cancercouncil.com.au

MARCH 2022 OVOFORUM 18 ISSUE 013 P12 novonews.com.au

Thread: Henry Lawson and the Wickham School of Arts Thank you, F.Whitaker for your letter regarding a new function for the former Wickham School of Arts.

Its proximity to the Newcastle Interchange would be ideal as a Heritage Centre and an introduction to our city’s history for visitors.

Newcastle is the second settlement in Australia after Sydney/Parramatta from 1804.

OVOFORUM There are so many photos and films on our history, e.g., Stories of Our Town and surely a great opportunity for the National Trust to also become involved.

We really must save this historical building and ensure that it has an appropriate use equal to its heritage and the heritage of Newcastle.

S.Martin, Newcastle

Join the Merewether Seaside Probus Club Are you looking for friendship, fellowship and fun in retirement?

Merewether Seaside Probus Club are looking for new members to join.

Now that Covid-19 restrictions have eased, the club are finding that people are seeking to join social community groups once again. They would love to welcome new members to join the club over 2022!

OVOFORUM Merewether Seaside Probus Club meet on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 10.30 am at Souths Merewether Leagues Club, 46 Llewellyn St, Merewether NSW 2291.

For further information email: merewetherseasideprobus@gmail.com or Phone 02 4963 6093

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OVOFORUM

A voice for all Novocastrians Do you have an opinion about something in the Newcastle community? A compliment? A concern? A rebuttal? Or simply an observation that you believe serves the public interest.

NovoForum is here to provide an outlet for Novocastrians to discuss, offer insight, share knowledge, and have their say about local issues that matter to them.

NovoNews encourages all groups and individuals in Newcastle to contribute their news, opinions, community comments, notices and items of interest for publication.

Please send your entries to editorial@novonews.com.au and include a full name and suburb to be published. All entries are subject to our final editorial discretion.

All content must be readable and coherent and must not be offensive or defamatory – the Editor reserves the right to truncate, amend or not to publish any material sent to us.

Discover pictures from the past A picture really thousand words.

is

worth

a

The Miss Porter’s House Museum collection includes family snaps, prints and commercial photographs, painting a vivid portrait of Newcastle life in the early years of the twentieth century.

The special display of Pictures from the Past will include examples from courting postcards and holiday snaps to street scenes and local landmarks.

OVOFORUM Visitors can also help identify several mystery photographs.

Visit the display on Sunday, April 10, from 1 pm to 4 pm at Miss Porter’s House Museum, 434 King Street, Newcastle West.

For ticket enquiries, call 4927 0202 or visit nationaltrust.org.au.

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Merewether students approach ambitious 80k fundraising target A staggering 105 students from Merewether High School are participating in the World’s Greatest Shave, hoping to raise $80,000 to help researchers find a cure for the devastating disease.

The World’s Greatest Shave fundraising event will occur at the Merewether High School campus on March 24.

Year 12 prefect and shave participant Thusanda Dewamitta said the school was just $13,000 off reaching their ambitious target.

“We’re currently sitting at around $67,000 in total raised,” Dewamitta said.

“We were definitely worried about our target at the start… we were thinking ‘wow that’s such a big goal’, and we calculated that we’d have to raise $10,000 per week … but everyone has been really supportive so far, so it’s been great to see.”

If not participating in hair shaving, cutting or colouring activities on shave day, students have supported the cause through the school’s fundraiser and helped to spread awareness within the wider community.

The leading prefect body, which comprises of 20 students, has initiated multiple internal events to engage

Internal fundraising has helped the students fundraise $67,000 of their $80,000 target.

Photo: Merewether High School

students, including a weekly Friday Fundraiser.

Some Friday Fundraisers include crazy sock day, a sausage sizzle, a bake sale, superhero day and a pizza day.

“Our Friday Fundraisers have raised a fair bit of money and it gets the school spirit up,” Dewamitta said.

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“Every year, the goal is to beat the previous year’s amount raised – this year, we have a goal of $80,000 to beat $78,000 from 2021.”

The school is currently ranked number three in Australia for team donations, and Dewamitta said the student body hoped to land a spot in the top two by next week.

Dewamitta said the initiative was something the school did annually, and according to one staff member, the Greatest Shave had been a fixture on the school’s calendar for more than 10 years.

“The first Year 12’s to begin this tradition knew someone in the school community impacted by leukaemia,” Dewamitta said.

He said 2022’s Year 12 student body had been touched by Leukemia, with one student’s family member passing away from the disease.

“While anyone can be diagnosed with Leukemia at any age, most people diagnosed are between the ages of zero and 14.”

Every day, fifty people are diagnosed with blood cancer and another 15 lose their battle with the disease.

It’s a statistic the students are looking to change.

OVOSOCIETY

“World’s Greatest Shave is a good way for us to give back to the community in our final year of high school and to generate a support network via the Leukemia Foundation to provide resources and assistance for those impacted,” Dewamitta said.

Funds raised via the Leukemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave initiative provide information for newly diagnosed patients, and relief accommodation for families going through life-saving treatment.

“Our biggest fundraising focus at the moment is the upcoming Raffle for a Remedy which we’re counting on generating the rest of the money needed to hit our goal,” Dewamitta said.

“It’s an online raffle that anyone in the community can get involved in, and our prefect body has secured a variety of prizes valued at $6,000 through contacting a huge range of businesses locally.

“It’s a fun way to keep the fundraising momentum going up to our shave day on the 24th, which is when we’re going to draw the raffle too.”

Among prizes available in the raffle is a signed Newcastle Knights jersey, Sanbah surfing lessons, Newcastle Golf Club vouchers and a four-person reservation for Cheval’s Restaurant at the Newcastle Jockey Club, valued at $600.

“We want to build as much hype as we can in the community, so the more people that know about it, the better,” he said.

Maia O’Connor

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Rallying for women’s rights

The International Women’s Day March was the first event of its kind in decades.

In the wake of International Women’s Day, over 100 Hunter allies came together on March 12 to protest women’s rights in the workplace, demanding change and gender equality for all.

Organised by the Hunter Workers Women’s Committee, the protest started at 10 am and heard speeches in Birdwood Park, followed by a march along King Street towards Civic Park, where more speeches were held.

The Women’s Militant Movement organised the first-ever International Women’s Day March in 1931 and continued the tradition every year until the Newcastle Earthquake in 1989.

Hunter Workers Women’s Committee revived the event this year, calling on the government to prioritise gender equality and women’s rights in the workplace.

The Saturday morning event was accompanied by prominent local leaders, including Federal Member for

State Member for Charlestown and Shadow Minister for Women Jodie Harrison.

Newcastle Sharon Claydon, State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen, and State Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison.

Hunter Workers Women’s Committee Leanne Holmes said the event was not only about celebrating the achievements of women but giving them a voice.

“It’s not good enough that we still have one woman a week being murdered by her partner,” Holmes said.

“It’s not good enough that we don’t have paid domestic violence leave.

“And it’s not good enough that we (still) have these same battles about pay equity and being taken seriously.”

Some other key speakers included Worimi elder Aunty Therese, Vice President of the Australian Labor Party Mich-Elle Myers, disability advocate Suzy Trindall and activist and educator Arden Cassie.

As well as being the Vice President of the ALP, Mich-Elle Myers is also the National Divisional Women’s Representative of the Maritime Union of Australia.

Myers said the day was about drawing attention to inequality, discrimination, and mistreatment in society.

“Almost a year ago we were on the lawns of Parliament House with the March4Justice, hundreds of thousands of us around the country marched because of what was going on in the highest workplace in the land—on that hill in Canberra, the treatment of women was an absolute disgrace,” Myers said.

“What happened to Brittany Higgins shouldn’t happen to anyone, but it certainly shouldn’t happen in Parliament House—so women marched, and they were angry, but disgracefully we were ignored and dismissed.

“If you’re not angry about the gender pay gap, if you’re not angry about an alleged rape in Parliament House, if you’re not angry that the Federal Government has failed to implement the whole 55 recommendations from the Respect@Work Report, which includes 10 days paid domestic violence leave … then your simply not paying attention.”

State Member for Charlestown and Shadow Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said workplace discrimination was prevalent in many workplaces, even in her own.

“We don’t have equal representation of men and women in governments. We don’t have safety for women in positions of power, in places of power, let alone along the streets we walk,” Harrison said.

“In my own workplace during question time, there are women who are called ‘witches’, there are women who are told that they should ‘go home and stir their cauldron’ and there are women who are catcalled—and what’s even worse, is when other women are doing that.”

“We need to stand together and say that we’ve had enough – we have been sitting around waiting for change to happen for too long.”

Hayley McMahon

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@novonewsau

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Authors descend on Lake Mac for annual writing festival Hunter’s budding authors and book worms can look forward to this year’s Write Here Festival, where 30 local and visiting authors will share new reads, tips, tricks and tales across the three-day event.

Hosted at Lake Mac libraries between March 18 and March 20, the writing festival will include writing workshops, author talks and presentations.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the diversity of talent secured for the event was exciting.

“In just a few short years, Write Here has established itself as one of the best literary events in regional NSW,” she said.

“Not just for budding authors and illustrators, but for everyone who loves books and reading.”

This year’s festival includes an Afternoon of Crime and Thrillers at Warners Bay Theatre, featuring authors Chris Hammer, Barry Maitland and the Walkley Award-winning Jane Caro.

The ticketed admission includes inconversation sessions with all three authors, as well as refreshments and snacks.

Meanwhile, fiction and memoir-writing workshops, author talks and a screening of Dead Poet’s Society at Rathmines Theatre are among the other highlights.

Nationally recognised author and illustrator Sami Bayly will be in attendance

sharing her journey on how she got her first break in the publishing world.

The former University of Newcastle Bachelor of Natural History Illustration honours student said she received a call from a children’s book publisher in 2018 after entering a portrait of the Australian White Ibis into an art competition.

“In my third year of university, I was finding myself being inspired by the more unusual or ‘ugly’ animals in life, wanting to draw the stranger-looking creatures instead of the beautiful or cute ones,” Bayly said.

What followed was The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals, a compendium of 60 of the world’s most unusual animals, exploring their appearance, habitat, diet and conservation status.

The book’s incredibly detailed watercolour illustrations helped earn Bayly a plethora of awards, including the 2020 Children’s Indie Book of the Year, and paved the way for two further non-fiction publications.

Bayly’s books have been published in many different countries, including the UK, the US and Russia.

Bayly will provide an insight into her writing and illustrating techniques at Toronto Library on March 19 before hosting a children’s story-time and illustration session at Warners Bay Theatre the following day.

“I hope that kids and adults joining in with my sessions learn that nature is

Sami Bayly with her book, The Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Ugly Animals.

Photo: Sami Bayly

incredible, and there are endless amounts of facts to be learnt about it,” Bayly said.

“It’s so important that we instil a love of the planet in upcoming generations because right now, we need to take care of it more than ever.”

Bayly will also join fellow authors Sandie Docker, Chris Hammer, Fiona McArthur and Tobias Madden on the evening of March 19, offering a sneak peek into their new and unpublished works.

Bookings for each session at Write Here Festival are essential, and costs range from gold coin entry to $40 for some workshops.

Lake Macquarie City has advised that Dine and Discover vouchers can be utilised at the event.

More information on what’s on offer at the festival can be found on the Lake Mac Libraries website.

Maia O’Connor

Newcastle Writers Festival makes a comeback Newcastle Writers Festival was launched officially at a special event in Newcastle City Hall with special guest Costa Georgiadis.

Photo: Newcastle Writers Festival

Newcastle Writers Festival is finally back after a two-year COVID-19 hiatus, with some of Australia’s most respected and loved writers visiting Newcastle for the three-day festival.

After its cancellation in 2020, the festival has since been repeatedly postponed due to recurrent COVID-19 outbreaks in the community.

The 2022 program was officially launched at a special event at the

Newcastle City Hall on March 3, celebrating the festival’s first year back since 2019.

Starring special guest Costa Georgiadis and hosted by Paul West, guests were filled in on the fun writer activities and events that the Newcastle Writers Festival would bring.

The festival will be held in the Civic precinct from April 1 to 3, featuring 70 free and ticketed events.

Some activities will include a fundraising literary trivia night, a

historical walking tour of Stockton, a winery event with popular writer Todd Alexander, as well as panel discussions, readings, one-on-one interviews, and book launches.

Founding director Rosemarie Milsom said there was no overarching theme for this year’s festival, but the opening and closing night events would reflect the program’s tone.

“Our opening night gala centres on love in all its forms, and six writers, including Trent Dalton and Hannah Kent, will speak about its impact,” Milsom said.

“On the final evening, Sarah Wilson will discuss her most recent book, This One Wild and Precious Life: A hopeful path forward in a fractured world.

“I realise there is a lot to despair about, whether it’s the ongoing impact of the pandemic, record-breaking floods, and the war in Ukraine.

I don’t want to sugar-coat the hardship or avoid tough conversations, but I also want to celebrate the comfort provided by books and powerful writing.”

She said session topics would include gender politics in parliament, identity, history, the environment, family, and the impact of the pandemic.

“The festival has also collaborated with the annual Margaret Henry

Memorial Lecture, which will be presented as part of the program by disability advocate Graeme Innes.”

Milsom said this year’s program included some of Australia’s most respected fiction and nonfiction writers, including journalists Van Badham, Justine Cullen, Kate McClymont, and Amy Remeikis, Aboriginal writers and activists Chelsea Watego and Thomas Mayor, academic and former Griffith Review editor Julianne Schultz and leading feminists Clementine Ford and Wendy McCarthy.

Best-selling authors Kelli Hutchins, Michael Robotham, and Jane Caro will also make an appearance as well as Tom Keneally, Amani Haydar, Brendan Cowell, Jessie Stephens, Laura Elizabeth Woollett, and international guest Simon Winchester who will be appearing live from the US via video link.

Some talented local Hunter writers will also be attending the festival, including Lee Christine and Wendy James.

Some events will also be live-streamed across the three-day festival, opening accessibility for all.

For the full program and bookings, visit the Newcastle Writers Festival website.

Hayley McMahon

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Inspiring 2022 Women of the Year To coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8, local women were recognised for their inspiring commitment and compassion towards their community.

As part of the annual NSW Women of the Year Awards, each state electorate selects a local woman who has inspired others and gone above and beyond for their community.

Midwife, trauma survivor, mental health and LGBTQIA+ advocate Oceane Campbell was named the 2022 Newcastle Woman of the Year by State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp on March 6.

“I feel like I’m only one small part of this incredible community who have helped me grow and achieve these things,” the Maryville mother said.

Campbell was nominated for her work in health care and midwifery, her advocacy for the LGBTQIA+ community and her efforts towards removing the stigma around mental health.

Along with being a midwife during the height of the pandemic, Campbell was behind a Hunter New England Health initiative, improving maternity care for LGBTQIA+ people and training other health care workers on how to ensure safe access for all.

The University of Newcastle also recognised Campbell in 2017 for her

Oceane Campbell (holding the award) and Newcastle State Member Tim Crakanthorp with Oceane’s friends and family.

Photo: Tim Crakanthorp MP

role in developing a virtual reality program teaching students how to resuscitate a newborn.

“I hope that I can continue to show women accessing maternity services that they deserve the most respectful and compassionate care through pregnancy and birth,” Campbell said.

“I want to do everything in my power to make people feel that mental health issues are not something to be ashamed of and that it’s okay to speak up and seek support.”

Working towards removing mental health stigmas, Campbell and her mother, Cécile Barral, published The Silence Between Us in 2021.

The acclaimed double memoir confronts the intergenerational trauma that placed a chasm in her and her mother’s relationship, as well as Campbell’s sexual assault and suicide attempt.

State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said Campbell deserved the recognition.

“There were many amazing women nominated this year, but I was just blown away reading Ms Campbell’s story,” he said.

“I felt inspired by her courage and compassion and can see that she is making a huge difference to the wellbeing of so many others.

“Ms Campbell has achieved so much already, but I just know there is more to come.”

Charlestown’s Woman of the Year, Rosalynd O’Shannassy, was announced

by State Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison.

After experiencing an aneurysm seven years ago, O’Shannassy has since worked to show her gratitude to the Westpac Lifesaver Rescue Helicopter Service.

The service swiftly transported her from the John Hunter Hospital to the Royal North Shore and was an integral key in saving her life.

Since her recovery, O’Shannassy has helped raise funds for its operations by creating and selling silk flower angels—a process both time consuming and complicated.

Harrison said everyone in the community could learn something from O’Shannassy’s experience.

“Rosalynd has chosen to take what was potentially a terrible experience for her and turn it into something positive,” Harrison said.

“Her actions to give something back to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter shows what kind of woman she is, and she more than deserves recognition for her efforts.

“Westpac Rescue Helicopter has touched the lives of so many people in times of need, and it is heartening to see Rosalynd, a beneficiary of their essential assistance, giving back in this way.”

Hayley McMahon

Novocastrians urged to help end period poverty Newcastle businesses and community organisations are accepting donations for this month’s Dignity Drive, seeking to support those in need and put an end to period poverty.

Organised by national charity Share the Dignity, the Dignity Drive collects menstrual product donations during March to give to people in need.

Locations in Newcastle accepting donations include the offices of State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp, Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon, State Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison and State Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery.

Crakanthorp said it was an important initiative to support and urged the local community to get involved.

“We’re all feeling the rise in the cost of living at the moment, but this is hitting some people harder than others,” Crakanthorp said.

“Sanitary items are necessities, not luxuries, and donating to this drive is a small gesture that can make a big difference to someone in need.”

Founder of Share the Dignity, Rochelle Courtenay, said that while a magnitude of donations had been received, they were still in desperate need of support.

This year, 30 registered charities have requested 3,265 products, but only 950 products have been collected from 64 registered collection points.

“We have seen quite a slow uptake this March campaign, and we suspect it’s due to all that is going on across the country and world right now,” Courtenay said.

“Last year, we had 35 charities request 4037 products, and we were blessed enough to collect 6862 products.

“Menstruating isn’t a choice, but those experiencing period poverty often have to choose between purchasing period products or other essential items just to get by.”

Courtenay said they were on a mission to ensure all who menstruated had

access to period products when they needed them.

The drive accepts all products in original packaging, including pads, tampons, maternity pads, period undies, menstrual cups and incontinence products.

Share the Dignity’s bi-annual Dignity Drive is an initiative delivered in partnership with Woolworths and is currently in its fourth year running.

Since the charity was founded in 2015, it has donated over 3 million period products to those who menstruate.

Courtenay said the support of

Share the Dignity founder Rochelle Courtenay urged residents to visit their local Woolworths to donate products.

Federal Member for Newcastle Sharon Claydon with previous donations for the Share the Dignity charity.

Photo: Share the Dignity

Photo: Sharon Claydon MP

Woolworths stores across the country had been essential in the fight to end period poverty.

“When I first started Share the Dignity, I wanted to forever change the way that people walked the sanitary aisles,” she said.

“Woolworths has played a significant role in this, in breaking down the shame and stigma surrounding periods, and in ensuring that no women or girl goes without the basic essentials.”

Courtenay said that when people were struggling financially, pads and tampons were often the first to be taken off the shopping list.

“We’ve heard so many stories of mothers who have chosen to go without so they can buy pads for their daughter, or university students having to choose between filling up their car or buying tampons,” Courtenay said.

“So, when shopping at your local Woolworths this month, please consider adding an extra pack to your trolley for someone who may be doing it tough.”

Supporters can drop off donations at all local Woolworths stores and a number of nominated businesses nationwide until the end of March.

Alternatively, community members can purchase a virtual pack of pads for $5 via the Share the Dignity website or locate donation drop off points via Share the Dignity’s virtual map.

Maia O’Connor

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Seniors Festival aims to reconnect over 55s

Free yoga, art classes and coffee catch-ups are among the activities on offer at Lake Macquarie City Council’s Seniors Festival, which is set to take place from March 25 to April 3.

The festival aims to reconnect seniors throughout the region and encourage human connection after many struggled with social isolation during COVID-19 and its associated lockdowns.

Lake Macquarie City Manager Community Partnerships Andrew Bryant said this year’s program encouraged seniors to enjoy new experiences, continue learning, stay active and connect to their community.

“We’ve chosen a range of locations and activities where participants can get together safely and socialise,” he said.

Painting workshops at the Museum of Art and Culture and an Art of Ageing photo exhibition at SEEN@Swansea aim to appeal to art lovers.

Also, free yoga sessions at Morisset and exercise sessions at Belmont South and Cameron Park will help get the blood pumping.

Other free activities include history talks, coffee catch-ups, smartphone photography workshops, a nature treasure trail at Rathmines and a seagrass walk and talk at Belmont.

Belmont 94-year-old Reg Kerslake welcomed the upcoming program and said staying connected to prevent physical and mental isolation was important.

“When you become isolated, you start to think only within yourself, rather than thinking outwardly,” Kerslake said.

“Particularly when you get old like me.”

Despite his years, Kerslake said he remained active in his community through gardening, walking, and daily visits to the shops to buy the paper and a coffee.

“And I’ve got excellent neighbours – that’s a big thing,” he said.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the Seniors Festival was an extension of the Council’s monthly Over 55s Program, which focused on health, safety and wellbeing.

“The activities we host as part of the festival and the wider Over-55s program

help enrich and empower our seniors,” Cr Fraser said.

“They are such an important part of our community and contribute so much to who we are as a city.”

Bookings are essential to attend Seniors Festival activities.

Locals can find more information on Lake Macquarie City’s website.

Maia O’Connor

94-year-old Reg Kerslake from Belmont welcomed the festival idea after enduring ongoing isolation in recent times.

Photo source: Lake Macquarie City

Gifting Day supports important community initiatives

Gifting Day campus activities included live music, an obstacle course, a photo booth, guest speakers and a free barbecue.

Photo: University of Newcastle

The University of Newcastle rallied the community’s support for its inaugural Gifting Day, a social impact campaign that promoted the culture of kindness and raised funds for vital lifechanging projects.

Gifting Day was held on March 9 and raised more than $300,000 for nine important initiatives that endeavour to create positive change.

The day was dedicated to fundraising via celebratory events and activities at

the University’s Callaghan campus, Ourimbah campus, NUspace and online for over 24 hours.

More than 700 donors from around the world and over 300 dedicated ambassadors and volunteers came together to make a collective impact.

Donations were made through the Gifting Day website to one of the nine initiatives, and community members celebrated the power of generosity by participating in on-campus and online events.

The nine priority initiatives Gifting Day

supported included 2NURFM radio station, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Research, Alumni House, Excellence Scholarships, Human and Social Futures Shaping Futures Scholarships, HunterWiSE, Science and Engineering Challenge, Shaping Futures Scholarships and other project areas of greatest need.

In particular, the priority initiative of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Research endeavours to forge a fairer future for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

The community informed health research addresses unfair health challenges and delivers life-changing outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

Australia’s first Indigenous surgeon and Associate Professor Dr Kelvin Kong’s essential research is an example of what donations could do for the important initiatives.

Dr Kong has been spearheading the use of telehealth to treat patients in regional and remote communities.

He is trialling a process where Indigenous health workers take down a patient’s history and supplement this with photos to share with a city-based specialist.

“The health workers are on the ground, and you’re helping to build capacity and leadership in the community,” he said.

“I just become the conduit to providing health care.”

He believes this model could help improve outcomes for Indigenous communities in remote areas.

Dr Kong said Gifting Day boosted the University of Newcastle’s efforts to support greater numbers of Indigenous researchers.

“This isn’t just about funding my research,” Dr Kong said.

“We’re talking about transformative change across the University – senior positions of leadership for Aboriginal people, recruiting and supporting Aboriginal academics.”

Gifting Day campus activities included live music, thank you stalls, an obstacle course challenge, a photo booth, guest speakers and a free barbecue.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky said Gifting Day was devoted to addressing big challenges with even bigger ideas.

“We are excited about building a powerful movement to create positive change in our communities and beyond,” Professor Zelinsky said.

“I’m sure at times over the past two years people have felt helpless and uncertain about their future and for the future of generations to come.

“Gifting Day was an opportunity for us to all work together to shape a better tomorrow by building more connected communities, championing opportunities for all through equity, diversity and inclusion, supporting lifechanging research and creating a sustainable tomorrow.”

“The heart of our work is local, but its reach is global.”

Hayley McMahon

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Largest clean up in the Hunter

Tyres, car seats and wooden pallets were among the 2.9 tonnes of rubbish collected across Lake Macquarie for Clean Up Australia Day on March 6.

The mammoth effort saw thousands of volunteers work across more than 75 sites in the area, the highest number registered in any local government area in the Hunter region.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser, who joined clean-up efforts at Redhead on March 6, said she was thrilled to see the community rallying together to help the environment, despite the wet weather.

“It’s fantastic to see people of all ages and walks of life helping to beautify and preserve our landscape,” Cr Fraser said.

“Unfortunately, littering and illegal dumping is still an issue across Lake

Mac, and we’re calling on all residents to do the right thing by putting their rubbish in the bin and taking larger items to our Awaba Waste Management Facility.”

The 75 sites were registered across the city’s foreshore, bushland, beaches and parks; however, a number of scheduled activities were postponed due to wet weather, including those at Warners Bay, Rathmines and Cameron Park.

Dudley Public School Parents and Citizens spokesperson Robin Simpson said around 30 volunteers braved the weather to clean a 1.4 kilometre stretch in the neighbourhood.

“We were able to collect six bags of rubbish which was mainly plastic wrapping, cigarette butts and polystyrene,” Simpson said.

“The little ones really loved the handson experience, and we hope that it teaches them healthy habits for life.”

@novonewsau Redhead Sustainable Neighbourhood Group site leader Paul Hubbard led a dedicated team around Redhead Beach.

“There’s a lot less rubbish here than previous years, which is good to see,” Hubbard said.

“However, we are finding a lot of microplastics which are small bits of plastic bottles and that type of thing which isn’t healthy for the marine life.”

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager

Community Partnerships Andrew Bryant congratulated the community on its efforts and encouraged local volunteers to help preserve the environment year-round.

“I urge residents to take a look at the amazing sustainability programs on offer here at Lake Mac to help build on the weekend’s efforts,” Bryant said.

Information source: Lake Macquarie City

Volunteers worked across more than 75 sites in Lake Macquarie.

Photo: Lake Macquarie City

Lake Mac City’s dog strategy attracts questions from locals While Lake Macquarie residents have welcomed the council’s new Dogs in Open Space Plan, they have warned that effective implementation is key to ensuring beneficial outcomes for park users and their canine companions.

Last month, Lake Macquarie City announced the launch of its Dogs in Open Space Strategy after new figures revealed canine companionship had soared across the city since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Section Manager Community Assets Brendan Callander said the number of dogs registered in Lake Macquarie had risen by more than 10,000 since 2018.

“We’re now home to more than 93,000 registered dogs – the second-highest number of any local government area in NSW,” Callander said.

“Growing numbers coupled with the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing urban density and smaller backyards have led to a surge in demand for open spaces where people can exercise and socialise their dogs.”

While the Dogs in Open Space Plan addresses the provision of on-leash and off-leash areas, fenced parks, and greater community education on ownership, some locals believe that education is the priority in ensuring the plan meets its objective in delivering safer facilities for pets.

Local social group Doggie Dates NSW has seen a surge in participants due to locals not feeling comfortable walking on their own.

Photo: Doggie Dates NSW

TJ Melrose from Doggie Dates NSW Ltd expressed concerns about the current lack of responsibility by some dog owners not only in Lake Macquarie but Newcastle, Central Coast and surrounding areas.

Doggie Dates NSW Ltd is a social walking group comprised of dog owners, and Melrose said one of the reasons it had become so successful was due to residents being too anxious to walk their pets alone.

“There are members of the community who believe their ‘well behaved’ dogs are exempt from on leash regulations and the other aspects of dog ownership,” Melrose said.

“This creates fear and distress, especially from our older locals who are too afraid to walk their dogs due to the risk of attack from roaming dogs.

“People are under the illusion that because their dog is friendly, it is fine to approach on-leash dogs, many dogs will react to this, and it is not usual for dogs to have anxiety.

“There needs to be further education in this area.”

Former Lake Macquarie local Margeret Keast from Jigsaw Dogs has a Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training and supports calls for council-funded education.

“As a professional dog trainer, I often get clients who have had issues with offleash dogs attacking on-leash dogs and have to deal with the fallout,” Keast said.

“Owner education is key and involves understanding what their dog’s own play style is and understanding if their dog is becoming a nuisance to other dogs.

“I’d like to see council become more proactive in owner education, whether its signposts, handouts or educational seminars where people can learn.”

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser welcomed feedback from both dog and non-dog owners to determine what was best for the area.

“The strategy will aim to provide safe and inviting spaces for dogs and owners while balancing the recreational needs of the wider community,” Cr Fraser said.

“Companion animals are an important part of their family’s lives, and we need to provide facilities for them to be exercised freely where possible, practical and safe to do so.”

However, local woman Kerrie Maree is not convinced that additional breed inclusive spaces will be sufficient in ensuring dog safety after experiencing first-hand the dangers of dog intermingling.

Maree, who lives with a disability, was with her five-year-old grandson and carer at Speers Point Dog Park when her 3kg Moodle was crowded by five larger breeds, and the rough play resulted in a puncture wound to her dog’s chest and a $425 vet bill.

“Smaller dogs shouldn’t be with larger dogs,” she said.

Maree has lobbied the council for the past six months for segregated dog parks, and while Lake Macquarie City’s Deputy Mayor Jason Pauling has voiced his support for the cause, her latest request remains before the council.

“If council continues to ignore and reject requests to install separate areas, and a little dog is maimed or mauled, or a person is injured, how liable are they?” she asked.

Maia O’Connor

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50 years since Newcastle’s green ban movement

May Day march along Hunter Street, Newcastle, in the mid-1970s, with Jack Mundey (pictured to the right of the Power to the People sign) Photo: Dave Marley

A new exhibition at Newcastle Library is celebrating the 1970’s community protest movement that helped stop Blackbutt Reserve from being cut in two by a new highway.

Power to the People, 50+ Years of Union and Community Green Ban Action celebrates the 50th anniversary of the green ban movement.

Green bans were conceived by Builders Labourers’ Federation (BLF) NSW secretary Jack Mundey and were instigated at the request of, and in support of, residents’ groups.

The movement saw union members refuse to work on construction projects deemed environmentally or socially undesirable.

While many of the green bans in the early 1970s were focused on Sydney, the protest movement also made its way to Newcastle through the Newcastle Trades Hall Council.

A Newcastle green ban was enforced to help community groups stop an NSW Government plan to bulldoze more than 15 acres of Blackbutt Reserve for a 1.2 km section of Highway 23.

The road, which was being built to link the Sydney-Newcastle Expressway near Windale to the Pacific Highway at Sandgate, would have also effectively separated an additional 40 hectares of land from the main Blackbutt Reserve site.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the exhibition showcased an important time in history through the story of Jack Mundey and the green ban movement.

“Historical green bans demonstrate the value and impact that Newcastle’s communities can have when their passion and drive to protect our city’s rich natural and build environment is mobilised,” Cr Nelmes said.

Cr Nelmes said that along with the strike action to save Blackbutt Reserve, the green ban movement also helped protect historic houses in the East End.

“Power to the People 50+ years of Union and Community Green Ban Action explores green bans to save Blackbutt Reserve and Newcastle’s East End, both initiated by the BLF, Newcastle Trades Hall Council and over 25 community groups in the 1970s, which protected two extremely important features of Newcastle,” she said.

“Newcastle green bans were born in parallel with the Sydney bans from 1971 onwards, and the legacy of the movement cannot be underestimated as it led a shift towards ensuring heritage and conservation were central to planning and policy.”

Power to the People, 50+ years of Union and Community Green Ban Action has been curated by Newcastle

Libraries in partnership with Cross Arts Projects, University of Newcastle and Newcastle Trades Hall Council.

The exhibition draws on archival material preserved in collections held

by Newcastle Libraries, the University of Newcastle, the Hunter Living Histories, and Newcastle Trades Hall.

It features an eclectic mix of stories that depict community uprising over unequal planning, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island heritage, social housing justice, heritage buildings, land rights and conservation.

The exhibition will be on display at Newcastle Library’s Lovett Gallery until April 14.

Information source: City of Newcastle

Celebrating the launch of the Power to the People exhibition were (rear L-R) Leigh Shears, Secretary of Hunter Workers (Newcastle Trades Hall Council), Suzie Gately, City of Newcastle Manager Libraries and Learning, Jo Holder, Manager CrossArts and exhibition curator, Sam Dagg, Newcastle Trades Hall Council and exhibition researcher, Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Diane Barrack, union activist and (front L-R) Judy Mundey, activist, and wife of the late Jack Mundey, Cathy Claydon and Kevin Claydon.

Photo: City of Newcastle

Immersive musical event to celebrate Piano Day The Newcastle community is invited to join Piano Day 2022 celebrations by attending a free live music event featuring an intimate and immersive musical experience by some talented local artists.

Newcastle based pianist, composer and recording artist Emily Mirla Harrison has teamed up with vegetarian café Momo Wholefood to bring Momo Piano Sessions to the community on March 29.

Neo-classical pianist, musician and screen composer Emily Mirla Harrison.

Photo: Nicole Norelli

Performing under her stage name ‘Mirla’, Harrison said the event would feature “bite-sized” solo piano performances from her debut album Solitaire: The Virtue of Patience as well as original, melodic compositions from special guests No-kë and Hunter Brown.

“Momo Piano Sessions is about creating a welcoming, inclusive space for people to rest, slow down, and escape into quiet music,” Harrison said.

“The concept behind Momo Piano Sessions is to break down the perceived barriers associated with classical music events.

“That means hosting affordable events in quirky, cool spaces and curating a programme of young, experimental artists who create engaging and accessible music that cross-over popular genres.”

In a first for Newcastle, the Momo Piano Sessions will join other piano events worldwide to celebrate Piano Day 2022, which is held annually on the 88th day of the year because the piano has 88 keys.

Harrison said tickets were free, but there was a ‘pay what you feel’ ticket option for those wanting to support local live music and Australian musicians.

The audience will also be invited to donate to the Hush Foundation, which

Sydney composer No-kë (Cassie To) will be performing at the Momo Piano Sessions.

transforms healthcare culture through music and the arts.

Donations will contribute to Hush’s music therapy work with Hunter Children’s Hospital and Kaleidoscope Community Health Services in Newcastle.

Hosted by Momo Wholefood at their space on Hunter Street, the event starts from 7 pm, but attendees are invited to come earlier from 6 pm to enjoy food and drinks.

Owner of Momo Wholefood Linda Lodue said she was excited to host the event as their light-filled space was perfect for the melodic sounds of the piano.

“We have a pretty incredible space at Momo Wholefood, right in the heart of Newcastle,” Lodue said.

“Our heritage building was once a bank – its light, peaceful and rather grand perfect for these sessions of meditative, slow piano music.

“The idea behind Momo Piano Sessions is to support Newcastle’s live music scene and give something back to the community.”

Momo Wholefood is located at 227 Hunter Street, Newcastle, with Momo Piano Sessions, held on March 29 from 7 to 9.30 pm.

Hayley McMahon

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OVOCASTRIAN

Merewether couple bring laundry into 21st century When Merewether couple James Barratt and Teri Waite left the corporate world to tackle James’ family business, they did so intending to innovate the local laundry industry.

Barratt’s Laundry on Llewelyn Street, Merewether, has been owned by James’ parents for over 40 years, and in that time, has seen little change.

“It’s always just been a self-service coin-operated laundromat,” Waite explained.

“We decided to buy it last year and bring laundry into the 21st century by developing an app which is like Uber for your laundry.

“That’s how Laundrily came about.”

Waite said that during COVID-19, the small Merewether laundromat had experienced a significant downturn in business, so the app was also an attempt to keep their business viable.

“These days, there are so many different online delivery services, yet no app-specific ones for laundry,” Waite said.

“Getting someone to pick up and deliver your washing isn’t new, but using an app is.

“We saw a gap in the market to bring laundry service into the 21st century …

Laundrily is a way to give the people of Newcastle, Maitland, Lake Mac and surrounds that big city convenience that’s commonplace in places like New York.”

Waite said the app process was simple.

Before selecting a pickup date and time, clientele download the app and choose a laundry option, including anything from a wash, dry, iron, or bulk item service.

“Once people have ordered in the app, some people leave it at the door for us to collect,” Waite said.

For most services, this is done within a 24-hour turnaround time.

Waite said the response from the Hunter community had been overwhelming.

She said among the regular app users were a plethora of local businesses, including hairdressers, beauticians and Airbnb hosts, as well as new parents who work full time.

“There’s even one young woman who orders our service to her grandmother’s house, and ever since, her grandmother has referred to us as the ‘laundry fairies’,” Waite laughed.

“We’ve got another customer in her late 60s who has done her brother’s laundry for the past six years; now she just uses the app.”

Waite said that whilst laundry was a simple task, outsourcing the job alleviated pressure from local households.

“I know it’s just laundry, but it’s really rewarding to see that it’s making a difference,” she said.

Waite said they were currently in the midst of the NDIS application process, which will open the service for people in need in the Hunter community.

“We have a few NDIS customers and support workers who use the selfservice option, although we saw a need to make the delivery service available to them as well,” she said.

“We have to go through the same application process as other NDIS providers, such as physiotherapists, so it’s been difficult.”

While it has been a long process to gain approval, Waite hopes Laundrily will be available for NDIS participants within the next six weeks.

Waite said that the initial research and development for the app itself wasn’t easy and that they had encountered a few “false starts” in the process.

“It took about six months to develop the app because, in the middle of that, we were home-schooling our three kids in lockdown, running the laundromat and running our marketing agency,” she said.

While the couple initially explored the process of developing their own app, they eventually outsourced it to a UK company with experience in Laundry services.

Husband and wife duo James Barratt and Teri Waite quit their jobs in the corporate world to take on the family Laundry business.

“When building apps, there are so many things you have to take into account, in not only entering products but ensuring what features are available,” Waite said.

“We just didn’t have the tech skills to do this kind of thing on our own.

And while the couple has big plans for the Laundrily app, Waite said they wouldn’t forget the laundromat’s humble beginnings and would always provide the coin machine option.

Maia O’Connor

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CREATING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

Checklist for buying a property off the plan WITH

Michelle BALTAZAR Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine What’s not to like about buying property off the plan? You can buy tomorrow’s apartment at today’s price – a no-brainer because residential property prices always rise across the board. NOT! Money’s not a problem – you need only 10% of the price tag as a deposit. And if you’re an owner-occupier, you might qualify for some stamp duty concessions depending on which state your apartment is in. The icing on the cake is a visit to a display apartment on which no expense has been spared – it’s sleek, beautifully finished, minimally furnished and you fall in love!

But before you sign any contract or pay any money, take a deep breath and prepare yourself to do a lot of hard work to make sure you’re not making a big mistake.

Sure, you can make money buying off the plan, which

means buying an apartment before construction has been completed or maybe even started, but it’s no sure thing. Especially now with many experts tipping much more modest – or no – growth in residential prices in many areas for some time after the big rises in 2021.

While it would be nice to chalk up a capital gain on your apartment before settlement, and maybe even sell it on at a profit after only outlaying a 10% deposit, most buyers are in for the longer haul. Most plan to use it as either a home or an investment and so will proceed to settlement.

Of course, if your apartment is worth less than the agreed price at settlement you may experience difficulties in getting a mortgage for the full amount you need. Be cautious and use the period between paying your 10% deposit and settling to build a contingency fund to cover any shortfall.

The other major problem is that when your apartment is completed it’s not what you expected. Maybe floor sizes or layouts have changed, and/ or the fittings and finishes are nowhere near as glam as those that seduced you in the display apartment. Even worse, it could have structural issues.

So how can you make sure the apartment you are buying without seeing or touching will be to your liking and free of major hassles? While you can’t ever be 100% certain, you can take steps to make this a more likely outcome.

1. Choose a reputable developer and builder. Do some background research on the developer and builder of the complex you plan to buy into and only proceed if you find these are established companies with good reputations.

That way the risk will lower, plus you’re more likely to be approved for finance, as banks prefer to lend on off-the-plan properties constructed by reputable builders. Also check the companies have plans to rectify any defects as quickly as they can. Don’t be afraid to ask builders and developers to

provide the names of previous clients as references and follow these up.

2. Have the contract thoroughly reviewed. Off-the-plan contracts are often more complex than those for established homes, so make sure yours is thoroughly checked by an expert. Double-check yourself for clauses that favour the developer, such as those that enable them to change the plan, particularly finishes and floor sizes. With fittings and fixtures, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting upfront, including brand and model.

Ensure there is a deadline for completion. Also be wary of sunset clauses as some developers have cancelled contracts due to construction running past the sunset date and then on-sold the property at a much higher price. In some states, including NSW, recent legislation means if a developer wants to rescind your contract on the sunset date, it must have your permission to do so. Ensure that, in the worst case, if you are pushed out of the contract, you will receive your full deposit.

3. Pay attention to the strata fees. These ongoing costs of owning an apartment can be hefty. While a development with a big pool and gym may seem appealing, the maintenance of these amenities will lift the cost of your strata fees.

4. Conduct a thorough pre-settlement inspection.

Enlist an expert to help and make sure you check room sizes and all fixtures and fittings. Other checks you should undertake include a flood test on the balcony to ensure water drains away from the apartment and does not pool. And test all power points and the hot water pressure. PAM WALKLEY

Make sure you get value when you pay for advice Money magazine’s Paul Clitheroe recently received a letter from someone who was paying $9000 in financial advice fees to have their super managed (in a retail fund). This was 1.1% of their super ... most industry funds charge well below 1%. .

Marisa Broome, chair of the Financial Planning Association,

has some useful tips on what advice should cost.

An adviser may charge per hour, a flat fee, a percentage of funds involved or a combination of all of them. “What is important is that you as a client have to be told this upfront, and if you are not seeing value then you need to meet with your adviser and discuss either how you will get more value or how you

will pay for their services in the future,” says Broome.

She says price is not an issue if people see value in what they get in return. So long as the adviser can demonstrate that they are operating in the best interest of the client, that the fees they charge are justified in the strategy they deliver and over time the goals are achieved, then there is rarely a

comment on the cost.

A good adviser can help with budgeting and financial planning for the future, can recommend and implement an investment strategy, can establish your insurance needs and put that into place and can also look at your estate planning.

They may also help you plan, and perhaps secure, finance for your home or investments, and

help you plan for life moments like marriage, children, divorce, redundancy and retirement.

Costs might vary from a commission only (paid by the insurer) for insurance advice, to a strategy fee of as little as $2000, to much more for complex advice.

“We do know from core data research that it costs, on average, a financial planner

over $3500 to provide compliant initial advice primarily due to the regulatory regime, but some may be happy to discount this for the benefit of a longterm relationship with a client,” says Broome.

If you don’t know anyone who can recommend an adviser, the FPA has a “Find A Planner” area on its website (fpa.com.au).

JULIA NEWBOULD

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OVOSPORT

Super cricket clinic for Hunter kids “We invite kids of all abilities to come down and give it a go–cricket is a sport for all.”

McDonald said the sessions would provide information on how to get involved in cricket during the winter or next summer.

“People think that cricket is just a summer sport, but there are cricket programs that are indoors or in different terms of the school year, so we want to

highlight all of the opportunities for people to play and get involved,” he said.

The Sydney Sixers Junior Super Clinic will be held at the Feighan Oval in Warners Bay on April 1 from 4.30 pm to 6 pm—spaces are limited, and participants must register to attend.

To register or for more information, visit cricketnsw.com.au.

Hayley McMahon

Previous super clinics have been held in Newcastle and the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Photo: Mark Metcalfe, CA/Cricket Australia

Hunter kids will have the chance to meet and play with their cricketing heroes when the Sydney Sixers visit on April 1.

The free Sydney Sixers Junior Super Clinic is open to kids aged 5 to 12, where they will meet members of the Sydney Sixers Women Big Bash League and Big Bash League squads.

The after school session will also give kids the chance to enhance their skills through 90 minutes of action-packed bowling, fielding, and batting.

Area Manager for Cricket NSW Neil

McDonald said the clinic was usually held leading into the cricket season, but the event was postponed due to wet weather and COVID-19 difficulties.

“Any boys or girls playing Woolworths Cricket Blast or junior cricket (to U12’s) or not currently playing, who would like to have fun, learn a few skills and meet some of the Sixers are invited to come along,” McDonald said.

“My team will have practical skills and games for the kids to play during the session, and the Sixers will bring a couple of fun activities.

Jay Lenton of the Sixers celebrates with teammates during the Men’s Big Bash League match between the Perth Scorchers and the Sydney Sixers at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.

Photo: Kelly Defina/Getty Images

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Future stars shine bright at Lake Mac Women’s Sport Fest

Sam Poolman and netball masterclass participants.

Photo: Lake Macquarie City

Hundreds of budding female athletes gathered at the Charlestown sporting precinct on the weekend of March 12 and 13 for the inaugural Lake Mac Women’s Sport Festival.

The festival kicked off with two’ Lunch with the Sports Stars’ events on March 11 and 12, before women from across the Hunter trialled and participated in more than 20 different sports on March 13.

The festival’s final day included a netball masterclass with locally bred Aussie representative Sam Poolman, who took dozens of young participants through their paces on the Whitebridge Netball Courts.

The event rounded out three days of festival activities to celebrate women’s sport, shine a light on issues for women pursuing sporting dreams, and provide pathways for young athletes to embrace different sports.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the festival demonstrated the growing role sport played for girls and women in the community.

“Sport has so many benefits, whether it’s in terms of promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing motivation and coordination or building strong and supportive social groups,” she said.

“I’m so proud that Lake Macquarie is championing women’s sport and giving it the recognition it deserves.”

The festival featured talks and appearances by 2000 Olympics beach volleyball gold medallist Kerri Pottharst, Lake Mac cliff-diving world champion Rhiannan Iffland and a host of other athletes and experts.

Rhiannan Iffland said sport helped teach kids valuable life lessons, encouraged a healthy lifestyle and increased confidence and self-esteem.

“I’m a strong believer that it’s important to have sporting venues and groups that create a safe haven for young women and girls to connect and grow with other like-minded individuals,” she said.

“It can offer a sense of community like no other. I have seen first-hand how this can offer opportunities for young females to reach their full potential on and off the sporting field.”

Iffland applauded the recent development of women’s sport gaining greater coverage and recognition in the community.

“I think one of the main differences I’m seeing now is that we’re recognising more and more of what women are capable of, and many new role models have been given the opportunity to pave the way for younger athletes.

“Growing up in Lake Macquarie presented me with so many great opportunities, some of which I would never have expected to help me so much in my career today.

12-year-old Lilly Bartley from the Central Coast Sharks Gridiron Club.

Photo: Lake Macquarie City

“The sense of community I felt within the sports of trampoline and diving is something I will always be extremely grateful for.”

The event showcased a range of sports matches, workshops, clinics and live entertainment, as well as hands-on activities for girls and women of all ages.

The NSW Government contributed $50,000 towards the festival through its $500 million Stronger Country Communities Fund.

Maia O’Connor

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