Humelife Summer 2025 by Hume Community Housing Association

3 Celebrating our 30th anniversary

We hosted a business luncheon in November with over 170 attendees to celebrate our milestone 30th anniversary and discuss future partnerships.

5 Partnering to provide more homes for people in need

Through our partnership with Port Stephens Council, key local players are working together to reduce homelessness in the Port Stephens region.

6 Why housing essential workers matters

Hume is proud to support key workers like Em, a customer in her 50s who has lived in our Telopea community for over a decade.

Making it easier for you to reach us

We’re introducing some exciting upgrades designed to make your chats with us faster and easier than ever.

10 Our 2024 Hume in Bloom winners

Check out the well-deserved winners and runners-up of our 2024 Hume in Bloom gardening competition!

12 Community Notice Board

See what community events and activities are happening in your area

18 DIY holiday decorations

These creative and eco-friendly decorating ideas will give your home the festive feel on a budget.

20 SDA rental properties now available

Specialist disability accommodation (SDA) are properties that have been approved for some people funded under the NDIS.

26 Budget buster recipes

This holiday double edition of our budget buster recipe section will have you whipping up festive treats in a flash.

10 18 20 5 12

Welcome to our Summer issue

From Hume’s CEO Brad Braithwaite

Wishing you a happy holiday season.

It’s been a whirlwind of a year, and I am pleased to share that Hume have delivered one of our most successful years on record. Our 2024 Annual Report is now available on our website, and I welcome you to read about what we have achieved.

Success to me includes Hume being able to build new homes to help even more people experience the safety and security a home provides. While we continue to battle a housing crisis, every affordable home we can add to our portfolio means another household has a place to call home.

We are constructing a domestic violence refuge in Raymond Terrace, new townhouses in Wyong, redeveloping a site in Port Stephens to add thirteen new townhouses, and will soon announce a largescale development in Sydney’s west.

Success also means being able to showcase the impact of our work. We demonstrate that having a home and wrap around support services have a profound impact on a person’s wellbeing. We can measure how our services and support opens opportunities to

engage in work, education, social and volunteering activities. I am really pleased to share with you our first Impact Report which explains how we measure the impact we are having on customers lives. You can read it on Hume’s website and copies will be available in our offices.

As we count down to the end of 2024, we wind up our 30th anniversary celebrations. In November, we invited business and housing leaders to join us for a business luncheon to mark the occasion. It was an important opportunity to highlight Hume with the goal of positioning us a partner of choice for future developments and programs. You can see photos from the event in this issue.

We are hosting end of year customer celebrations across metro and regional locations. I love our customer parties and urge you to come along, bring the family and make a day of it. Not only is it a fun opportunity to meet others in your community – it is a wonderful way to meet us and get to know one another.

Have a safe and happy holiday season!

Brad Braithwaite Chief Executive Officer

30TH ANNIVERSARY

Celebrating our 30th Anniversary

In 1994, three passionate women saw a need for affordable and social housing in Western Sydney and formed Hume Community Housing. What began as a portfolio of 125 homes in 1994 has grown to 5,000 homes serving 9,000 customers across New South Wales in 2024.

We hosted a business luncheon at Parramatta Town Hall in November with over 170 attendees – including a wide range of government, industry, and community leaders – to celebrate our milestone 30th anniversary and discuss future partnerships.

The luncheon was, without a doubt, Hume’s most high-profile stakeholder event ever staged, and was an opportunity to show why we are considered one of the most trusted Tier 1 community housing providers in Australia.

We hosted an impressive lineup of speakers, including former NSW Minister and Chair of Faith Housing Alliance Professor Rob Stokes, CEO of Homes NSW Rebecca Pinkstone, Charlie Doud, Traders in Purple and placemaking guru Andrew Hoyne. We also heard from our Chair True Swain, Patron Bob Vine, and CEO Brad Braithwaite.

As the housing crisis deepens, it has never been more important to build social and affordable housing. At Hume, we are ready for the next 30 years

Hume Social launches in Telopea

Hume is proud to announce the launch of Hume Social in Telopea, a weekly program dedicated to addressing two critical issues identified by our community: cost of living and food security.

In partnership with Foodbank Australia and Plate it Forward, this initiative provides a free weekly lunch, pantry access, and a community gathering space that fosters connection and wellbeing.

Hume Social’s official launch in October saw an incredible turnout, with State Member for Parramatta Donna Davis and members of our Board joining us to celebrate this wonderful milestone.

More than 35 customers were able to access essential items like food, cleaning products, and hygiene supplies while also benefiting from fresh produce donated by Foodbank. The program also includes a pop-up op shop supported by donations from Hume employees. Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient Telopea community.

Partnering to provide homes for people in need

We were honoured to be announced as the winner of the Business Partner Award at the 2024 PowerHousing Member Exchange Awards in recognition of our important partnership with Port Stephens Council.

In April 2023, we reached out to Port Stephens Council to form the Port Stephens Homelessness Stakeholder Advocacy Group. The Group, the first of its kind in the region, was established to address the impacts of homelessness in Port Stephens.

The Group consists of 18 core members, including local MPs, the NSW Police, the Department of Communities and Justice, key community organisations, Local Aboriginal Land Councils, and community representatives.

In partnership with Port Stephens Council, we also founded ‘Dignity in Crisis’, a program aimed at providing safe emergency housing by using existing properties.

A set of holiday park villas that were set to be refurbished were brought forward to the Port Stephens Homelessness Stakeholder Advisory Group as a concept for emergency housing due to their highquality build and private location.

Once the concept was approved, Hume, Port Stephens Council, and Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services collaborated to set up the program. These villas now serve as a vital stepping stone for families, including those escaping domestic violence, providing a safe and stable environment as they transition to longer-term housing.

Through our valuable partnership with Port Stephens Council, key local players are working together to reduce homelessness and support people experiencing homelessness in the Port Stephens region.

We would like to acknowledge Port Stephens Council, Port Stephens Family and Neighbourhood Services, Mayor Leah Anderson, Kate Washington MP, and PowerHousing.

Why housing essential workers matters

One key group relying on affordable housing is essential workers—those working in childcare, nursing, the police force, public transport, local councils, and similar sectors. These workers keep communities running and provide vital services, and without them, everyone suffers.

However, rising rents combined with modest salaries have led to workforce shortages in many areas. High rents push essential workers far from their workplaces, which means longer commutes, higher transport costs, and more stress.

Hume is proud to support key workers like Em, a customer in her 50s who has lived in our Telopea community for over a decade. Em moved from Jordan to Australia in her twenties with her husband, where she worked hard to support her family and raise their son. After divorcing in her 40s, Em faced financial struggles as she started afresh, supporting herself on one income.

Before finding Hume and applying for affordable housing, Em lived in an old bedsit in Dundas. “The place was awful, badly maintained, and I never felt safe… but it was all I could afford,” she said. At that time, she was working in a local aged care facility and living week to week. Eventually, she secured a better-paying job in the catering team of a major hospital, which allowed her to consider finding safer housing.

When we visited Em, she proudly showed off her beautiful apartment—a modern, sun-filled unit decorated in her favourite white-and-blue colour scheme. “I had never heard of community housing or affordable housing until someone at work told me I might be eligible and should look into it,” she said.

Em appreciates the sense of community in her apartment block. “My neighbours are good people. We all come from different countries and religions, different ages and circumstances, but we all look out for one another,” she shared. Unlike traditional market rentals, Hume customers receive visits from their Neighbourhood Officer, who checks in, addresses issues, and connects customers with resources. These efforts create safer, friendlier, and healthier communities.

Em’s job at the hospital is just a short distance away, and by 6am, she is already in uniform, ready to help prepare the thousands of meals patients need each day. “I love my work and my team. We’re not doctors or nurses, but without us, the hospital wouldn’t function,” she said.

MY NEIGHBOURS ARE GOOD PEOPLE. WE ALL COME FROM DIFFERENT COUNTRIES AND RELIGIONS, DIFFERENT AGES AND CIRCUMSTANCES, BUT WE ALL LOOK OUT FOR ONE ANOTHER.

However, Em has noticed it’s becoming harder to find new team members to fill vacant roles. “People can’t afford the rent and must live further away. It’s expensive to travel, and it’s tough on families, so fewer people are applying.”

While affordable rentals like hers are still subject to market rent reviews, Em’s rent remains manageable—a significant benefit of community housing. “I consider myself very fortunate to be a Hume customer,” she added.

At Hume, we believe it’s a matter of social equity to ensure those in critical roles have access to safe, affordable housing. We are always seeking opportunities to build more homes to help reduce socio-economic inequalities and to foster fairness and inclusivity.

As NSW faces a rental housing crisis, Hume is taking steps to address it with two new affordable housing developments recently announced for western Sydney and the Hunter region. These projects will provide a much-needed mix of social and affordable rental housing.

Making it easier for you to reach us

We’re introducing some exciting upgrades designed to make your chats with us faster and easier than ever.

A new phone system: Support at your fingertips

Early next year, we are introducing a new phone system that has been designed to improve call quality and cut waiting times. This new system also supports different communication channels, which means you can talk to us through voice calls, video calls, or text messages.

These improvements mean that the Hume team will be able to communicate with you over your preferred channel and answer your questions quicker than ever before.

A new website: All the answers with one click

Next year, we are launching a new Hume website that has been designed to make it easier for you to navigate and find important information.

The new website will put information at your fingertips, the first step in making it easier than ever to manage your tenancy. With easy-to-use online tools, you can view your account, make payments on HumePAY, request a repair, or give us feedback — all in one place.

A new tenancy management system: Stay connected your way

From July 2025, we are launching a new tenancy management system which will allow our team to better understand and cater to your needs.

With this new system, you will be able to tell us how you prefer to receive Hume updates and information: email, text message, or traditional letters. Asking about your preferred communication channel means that we can stay connected with you in the way that best suits your needs.

Whether online, on the phone, or via text message, our upgraded systems put control in your hands – making it easier than ever to connect with us.

Save big these holidays

The holidays are a joyous time of year but can also be very expensive. Follow these tips to host a holiday to remember without breaking the bank.

Host a ‘bring a plate’ event

Sharing the load over the holidays is a great idea to reduce the stress of preparing a huge meal on your own and allows you to share the food costs. Ask your guests if they have a specialty dish they’d like to bring to the feast, such as a side salad or a dessert.

Shop around for specials

Shopping around and not restricting yourself to one supermarket can also help you make great savings. Be sure to keep track of discounts and special offers, and be prepared to switch supermarkets to follow the bargains.

Swap pricey presents for experiences

Giving experiences can be a cheaper alternative to presents and creates opportunities to make new

memories with your loved ones. You could gift a trip to the movies (especially on a discount day), an indoor play centre, or a trip to your local cafe for breakfast.

Get creative with babysitting options

Save on nights out by shipping the kids to a friend’s house for the night and creating a roster so you can return the favour later. The children will love all the extra sleepovers and playdates at their friends’ houses!

Give homemade gifts

Gift a painting, drawing, hand-baked good, or handwritten story as a gift – that personal touch can really go a long way over the holidays. You can also propagate plants you already own by taking cuttings and replanting them as gifts.

Our 2024 Hume in Bloom winners

OVERALL INDIVIDUAL COMPETITION WINNER

Belinda G from Tenambit

OVERALL COMMUNITY GARDEN COMPETITION WINNER

Angelo Ave Community Garden

The members of this community garden have won a $750 Bunnings voucher. A Community Development (Cohesion) Officer will work with this community to use the prize to enhance their garden in the way of their choosing.

Belinda has won a $500 Bunnings voucher based on our judges’ overwhelmingly positive response to this impressive garden. Her level of skill and passion for gardening stood out as exceptional.

“Fabulous to see a Hume resident creating such a therapeutic and beautiful garden space of quality for all its nurturing variety and growth… this garden and its story could be featured in a national gardening magazine” – Phil, Judge from Community Greening.

“This garden is pretty spectacular, it looks like the perfect spot to enjoy a on a warm afternoon”

– Wilson, Judge from Programmed.

“The Angelo Ave Community Garden captured the hearts of all the judges, not only because of its beautiful garden beds overflowing with flowers and foliage, but also because it is an example of how gardening is good for your mind, body, and soul… well done to the gardeners, you’re an inspiration” – Marcelle, Judge from The Diggers Club.

BEST COMMUNITY GARDEN

– Sponsored by Community Greening

BEST GENERAL GARDEN

– Sponsored by Willowdene

HIGHLY COMMENDED

BEST BALCONY GARDEN – Sponsored by Vegepod

BEST EDIBLE GARDEN

– Sponsored by The Diggers Club

Faafoi

Sturt St Community Garden

Kelly from Rutherford

from Peakhurst

Emma, Brenda, and Sandy from Telarah

Joanne from East Maitland

Vanny Kem from Liverpool

1st Angelo Ave Community Garden

2nd Alexandra Ave Community Garden

3rd Cumberland St Community Garden

4th Angelwing St Community Garden

1st Margaret from Rutherford

2nd Sunny from Telopea

3rd Kathleen from Telopea

1st William from Tenambit

2nd Pam from East Maitland

3rd Kate from Raymond Terrace

1st Shane from Raymond Terrace

2nd Fares from Fairfield

3rd Judith from Telarah

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

SYDNEY

SYDNEY SYMPHONY UNDER THE STARS

Saturday January 18 | 7:30pm – 10:30pm

Parramatta Park

Soak in a magical summer evening featuring some of our nation’s most talented musicians.

Sydney Symphony Orchestra brings you one of Tchaikovsky’s showstopping symphonies topped off with a rousing fireworks finale. Round up your friends and family and take your park picnic to soaring new heights at this free concert open to all.

For more information, please contact Sydney Festival at access@sydneyfestival.org.au

WHITLAM LIBRARY SMART BAR

ILLUMINATE NYE

Tuesday December 31 | 5pm – 10pm | Fairfield Showground

Here’s a family friendly and cost-effective way to bring in the New Year. Celebrate with a picnic under the stars on New Year’s Eve at Fairfield Showground.

Get ready for a magical night filled with live entertainment, free rides, roving acts, and food trucks as we countdown to a spectacular fireworks finale at 9:30pm. Tickets are $5 per person.

For more information, please contact Fairfield City Council at (02) 9725 0126.

Mondays – Thursdays | Various times | Whitlam Library, Cabramatta

Need help using library apps and online services? Find out how at Whitlam Library’s one-on-one Smart Bar sessions. A library expert will help you setup library apps on your phone or tablet. Hourly sessions run between 10am –4pm.

For more information, please contact Whitlam Library at (02) 9725 0333.

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

STORYTIME AT THE MUSEUM

11 December, 15 January, 12 February | 10:30am –11:30am | Fairfield City Museum

Visit Fairfield City Museum for some special storytime sessions followed by art and craft activities. Children aged 3-5 and their families can explore the Vintage Village, immerse themselves in stories, and express themselves with creative activities.

Bookings are essential – to secure your place, please visit bitly.cx/zu5XU

CONVERSATION CAFÉ

Various dates | 10am – 12pm | Various locations

Conversation Café is a lively social group for anyone who would like to practice or improve their English speaking skills. Practice and build your confidence as you discuss the topic of the week in a group chat and work together to discuss a topic. The sessions run during school terms, dates and times are as follows:

• Mondays: Green Valley Library

• Wednesdays: Yellamundie room at Liverpool City Library

• Thursdays: Carnes Hill Library

For more information, please contact Liverpool City Library at (02) 8711 7177.

BICYCLE EDUCATION CENTRE OPEN DAYS

Every Sunday | 10am – 3pm |King Street, Campbelltown

Gear up for a wheelie good time and grab your bicycle, scooter, and helmet!

The Campbelltown Bicycle Education Centre has free open days on every Sunday plus Monday to Friday during school holidays. These are great days for some family fun – pack a picnic lunch or use the powered barbeque facilities.

For more information, please contact the Bicycle Education Centre at (02) 4645 4376.

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

HUNTER

TJURKURPA: HANDLE IT

Now until March 9 | 9am – 4pm | Maitland Regional Art Gallery

Robert Fielding is an artist, a storyteller and a keeper of Tjukurpa (ceremony and culture). Over the past decade, he has built an eclectic and vast catalogue of works spanning and expanding the fields of paint, print, photography, poetry, drawing, film and sculpture.

This exhibition brings together threads of Fielding’s past and present to create a new conversation between times, places and cultures.

For more information, please contact Maitland Regional Art Gallery at (02) 4934 9859.

FREE ART SUNDAY

Every Sunday | 10am – 12pm | Maitland Regional Art Gallery

Free Art Sunday activities are designed for kids of all ages, and as a family, you can all join in and get creative. Each activity takes around half an hour to complete and are staffed by art tutors with all materials provided.

Bookings are essential – to secure your place, please visit mrag.org.au

NELSON BAY LEGACY MARKETS

1st, 3rd, and 5th Sunday each month | 9am –3pm | Neil Carroll Park, Nelson Bay

The Nelson Bay Legacy Markets are the longest running markets in the region, gong strong after 35 years. You can find a wide range of products at all price points and all money paid by vendors for the stall spaces is donated to Legacy, who then put the money back into the community.

For more information, please contact Nelson Bay Legacy Markets at 0419 492 009

COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD

PORT STEPHENS COMMUNITY ARTS CENTRE

Various dates | Various times

Cultural Close, Nelson Bay

The Port Stephens Community Arts Centre boasts a beautiful art gallery, a café, and a space where regular arts and crafts groups get together to create. These classes include bonsai, embroidery, painting, sketching, pottery, and much more.

Anyone of any age and experience level can become a member of PSCAC and its groups with a small annual fee.

For more information on classes and their dates and times, please visit pscac.org.au

NYE IN MAITLAND

Tuesday December 31 | 5pm – 9pm | Riverside Carpark, Maitland

To end of the year with a bang, Maitland City Council have put together a whole range of activities for the whole family to enjoy! The Riverside Carpark will turn into bustling hive of activity with a range of free activities, amusements and yard games.

Enjoy free popcorn, dance with your little ones at the family disco, listen to live music at the Riverside Stage, take part in some face painting, and make sure you don’t miss the spectacular fireworks display at 9pm!

For more information, please contact Maitland City Council at (02) 4931 2801.

LIBRARY LOVERS DAY

Friday February 14 | 2pm –4pm | Raymond Terrace and Tomaree Libraries

Celebrate your love of libraries and books on Valentines Day with this adult craft class. The class, which costs $10 per person, will teach you how to create a ’book nook’ and provide refreshments.

Bookings are essential – to secure your place, please contact Raymond Terrace Library at (02) 4988 0111 or Tomaree Library at (02) 4988 0670.

Are you finding it hard to successfully secure a rental?

Are you at risk of losing your rental because of property care issues?

Are you struggling with budgeting and paying your rent?

No matter your age, if you are a current tenant or looking for your first rental – this program will help everyone.

Learn how to be a good tenant, understand your rights, and responsibilities of renting in the private rental market (or in public and community housing) and increase your chances of successfully securing a rental tenancy.

If you are struggling to secure a tenancy, or think your tenancy is at risk we encourage you to sign up today! Register at Eventbrite or call Hume on 1800 004 300.

BOOK AT EVENTBRITE

Sessions available in both Regional Maitland NSW & Metro Fairfield NSW – scan the QR Code to find a session near you.

• The 4-hour program is FREE and includes a light lunch.

• Enjoy a welcoming, relaxed non-judgemental setting.

• Attend on your own or bring a support person.

• Gain a recognised Certificate of Completion to add to your customer record or use to apply for a private rental.

• You can improve your rental housing journey, moving from temporary accommodation into long term rental in the private market.

Sessions fill up fast so don’t miss out.

DIY holiday decorations

If you don’t have lots of decorations at the ready, we’ve got you covered with these creative and eco-friendly decorating ideas that will still give your home the festive feel.

Homemade garland

Here’s a fantastic alternative to plastic tinsel. Simply peg homemade decorations cut from paper or cardboard, leave on a string, and wrap around your tree or hang them along your walls.

Eco-friendly tree

Skip the plastic tree and make your own unique, rustic tree using things around the house. All you need are some sticks from the backyard, string and some homemade decorations.

Paper star decorations

Create paper star decorations for your tree or garland by cutting out star shapes from newspapers, leftover wrapping paper. Super crafty people can try folding origami stars!

Tealight lanterns

Create your own beautiful tealight lanterns by cutting out festive shapes in old wrapping paper or pages from an old book. Then wrap the cut-out paper around old jars, light a candle, and watch the room become illuminated!

Want more DIY decorating ideas? Check out pinterest.com or youtube.com for more inspiration!

Make the most out of rebates

Did you know that the NSW Government is helping cut the cost of living with over 70 rebates, vouchers, and discounts?

The Savings Finder tool on the Service NSW website is the easiest way to find out what savings and your family are eligible for.

Support is available across a wide range of household bills and activities, including:

Energy rebates Toll relief

Bill assistance

Travel allowance

Concession cards Medical equipment discounts

No interest loans

Childrens’ activity vouchers

Rental assistance

Use the Savings Finder at service.nsw.gov.au/campaign/savings-finder

Specialist Disability Accommodation

Rental Properties now available

What is SDA?

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) are properties that have been approved for some people funded under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to live in.

IMPORTANT

Hume cannot assess your eligibility for SDA. You will need to contact your NDIS Support Coordinator to see if you are eligible for SDA funding and/or request a review of your NDIS plan if it is not included.

THE PONDS

This well-located home has five bedrooms, two open living spaces, and two bathrooms with wide door frames and level access. The single-storey home is located very close to modern community facilities like local shopping centres, medical centres, and village markets.

CABRAMATTA

This friendly home holds five bedrooms, two spacious living areas, and two bathrooms. The well-maintained home is wheelchair-friendly, with ramp access to the back entrance, a level driveway area, and an accessible backyard with a courtyard and covered barbeque.

Rental Properties now available Specialist Disability Accommodation

This self-contained villa with a secured private yard is suited to a person who requires minimal support, enjoys participating in their own activities outside the home, and relishes their own space. The villa is attached to a shared barbeque space and is monitored by a security system.

This bright home has five bedrooms, a large living and dining area, and a smaller living area. This pet-friendly home is wheelchair-accessible, located close to local amenities, and features a covered entertaining area with a barbeque as well as a level driveway.

This spacious home surrounded by nature holds four bedrooms, two large living spaces, and ensuite bathrooms. The wheelchair-accessible home is located in a charming neighbourhood on the Central Coast and features an outdoor spa, ceiling hoists, and a shared laundry.

NORTH GOSFORD

MOUNT DRUITT

TUMBI UMBI

New Hume partnerships with SIL providers

We would like to welcome two new partnerships, brought on as a result of Hume customers electing a new SIL Provider through our Change of Provider process:

Riverlink Disability Services is a community-based not-for-profit organisation that is dedicated to working closely with individuals with disabilities (participants), their carers, and families. Riverlink’s goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where participants can socialise, have fun, and develop valuable skills.

Allara Support Services is on a mission to help as many people as possible find the home they deserve, with the support they need to live an inspired, joyful and independent life. Allara’s main goal is to help you to find a home you feel comfortable in and match you with a team of support workers who’ll inspire you to do great things.

Have your say for a chance to win!

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Complete a short online survey (see QR code below)

• Get interviewed in person or over the phone

• Drop by at an upcoming community event and share your feedback

We will use the feedback from these activities to shape Hume’s next 5-year strategy.

Customers who complete the survey or take part in a community event will go into the draw to win some prizes.

Customers who agree to be interviewed in person or over the phone will receive a $50 voucher.

If you have any questions or if you want to be involved, please contact 1800 004 300.

CROSS WORD

Summer is here

Discovering Australia

2. The big burning ball in the sky

5. A toy on a string you can fly on a windy day

6. An activity where you can sleep in tent

7. Something you use to dry after swimming

8. The shortened word for ‘barbeque’

9. A drink made with citrus and sugar

1. A place where you can have picnics and play

2. A loud bird seen at the seaside

3. The first month of summer in Australia

A frozen dairy treat

A place with waves and sand

FIND A WORD

Happy Holidays

Find and circle all of the words that are hidden in the grid.

Budget buster recipes for Summer

Greek-style lamb leg roast

This delicious lamb leg roast with Greek salad is ready in three easy steps, making it a perfect recipe for any festive occasion.

Ingredients

12 cloves garlic

1 bunch oregano

1 lemon, zested and cut into wedges

¼ cup extra virgin olive oil

2kg lamb leg roast

2 packets Woolworths Greek-style salad kit

Crush 4 garlic cloves, leaving remaining garlic cloves intact. Remove leaves from half of the oregano and finely chop.

Combine chopped oregano, lemon zest, crushed garlic and 2 tbs oil in a small bowl and season.

Place lamb in a baking dish and rub oregano mixture over lamb. Cover loosely with foil and place in the refrigerator to rest for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fanforced). Roast lamb for 1 hour or until lamb is browned. Add lemon wedges and remaining garlic to the pan. Roast for a further 30 minutes for medium or until lamb is cooked to your liking.

Baked feta with honey and thyme

This sweet and gooey baked feta is a perfect starter for any holiday gathering and can be whipped up in 20 minutes.

Ingredients

200g Greek-style feta

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 ½ tablespoons honey

2 sprigs thyme

Crackers, to serve

Preheat oven to 200°C (180°C fanforced). Pat feta dry with paper towel.

Place feta in a small oven-proof frying pan. Brush all over with oil. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until soft but not melted.

Remove feta from the oven and heat the oven grill to high. Brush feta all over with 1 tbs honey. Grill for 2 minutes or until golden around the edges and feta is just starting to bubble.

A special holiday double edition of our budget buster recipe section will have you whipping up festive treats in a flash.

Prepare salad kits according to packet instructions and sprinkle remaining oregano over lamb. Serve lamb with Greek-style salad.

Recipe from woolworths.com.au

Drizzle with remaining honey. Top with thyme and season with pepper. Serve with crackers.

Recipe from woolworths.com.au

Amazing roast potatoes

Golden and crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these are the roast potatoes that dreams are made of.

Ingredients

1kg medium brushed potatoes

10g butter

1 tablespoon virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sea salt flakes

Peel and quarter potatoes. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced) and grease a large baking tray.

Place potatoes in a saucepan of cold water and bring to the boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain water and return potatoes to pan.

Shake potatoes over low heat for 30 seconds to create a crust, then leave to cool for 10 minutes. Place butter and oil in a small microwave-safe bowl and microwave on HIGH for 20 seconds or until butter melts.

Place potatoes in a single layer on the baking tray and brush with the melted butter mixture. Sprinkle sea salt flakes on top and season with pepper.

Doughnut tree

End your festive feast on a high with this easy dessert, which is ready in 15 minutes and delivers maximum wow-factor.

Ingredients

24 cinnamon donuts

250g softened unsalted butter

500g icing sugar

2 teaspoons vanilla paste

Toppings of your choice

To make vanilla buttercream, stir butter at medium speed in a large bowl until pale and creamy. Stir slower and gradually add icing sugar, beating well between additions. Add vanilla paste and stir quickly for 2 minutes or until light and creamy.

Using the picture as a guide, assemble your tree by layering donuts and vanilla buttercream.

Roast potatoes for 45-50 minutes or until potatoes are light gold. Increase heat to 220°C (200°C fan-forced) for a further 15 minutes or until potatoes are golden and crispy.

Recipe from taste.com.au