The Local - February 2019

Live Loc Buy Loc al Love Lo al cal

Like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram for community news and info Issue No 58• A community newspaper for Newcastle’s suburbs • February 2019

Mobile ban in schools Mobile devices will be banned during school hours in NSW public primary schools and high schools will have the choice to opt in to a ban or introduce measures to more tightly restrict the use of devices during school hours.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Education Minister Rob Stokes announced the new measures in December. They are in response to an expert review which shows rising cases of online bullying, inappropriate sharing of explicit images between students, predatory behaviour from strangers and unnecessary distraction for students.

High schools will consider a range of options to manage devices, ranging (continued on page 4)

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LOCAL

Matters All editorial, advertising and distribution enquiries to Mark Brooker by email: mark@ hunterlocal.com.au or ph 0455 210 000 Mail: PO Box 130 Lambton, 2299 Office: Suite 8/12 Alma Rd New Lambton Founder & publisher: Mark Brooker

Ad bookings for March issue will close on Friday 15th February The Local is lovingly produced and carefully hand delivered each and every month to more than 21,000 residential letterboxes and businesses in Adamstown, Adamstown Heights (parts of), Broadmeadow, Hamilton, Hamilton East, Hamilton North, Hamilton South, Jesmond (parts of), Merewether (parts of), Lambton, North Lambton, New Lambton & New Lambton Heights. You can find back issues of previous editions and check out the latest community news and information at: www. hunterlocal.com.au or on our Facebook page @ thelocalnewcastle. If you enjoy receiving The Local in your letterbox each month please support with the businesses you see advertising on these pages.

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Readers, advertisers and community groups are encouraged to contribute to The Local with news items, community events and any matter of general interest to residents of the area. In contributing news items the contributor accepts that such information may or may not be published in print and/or online using websites and social media channels at the sole discretion of the publisher. No guarantee of publication is ever implied by this invitation to contribute.

Except where otherwise noted herein, all information, photographs, text and images, within The Local is subject to copyright. Material may not be reproduced and/or distributed in whole or part in any form without prior and explicit consent of the publisher.

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Page 2 > The Local > February 2019

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

Scream time

I was staggered to read recently that expert advice suggests just one or two hours a day as a limit on screen time for children.

Screen time is the time spent each day using devices with screens, like TVs, video games, smartphones and tablets.

For kids aged between two and five years the recommended maximum screen time is just one hour per day. For kids six to17 years old it is but two hours per day.

I’m not staggered by the expert opinion itself. I’m in no way qualified to question it. My jaw drops though when I realise just how far outside this guideline a typical day is for each of my kids.

I haven’t surveyed other families so we might be the outliers. But I can’t help thinking that we are closer to being a typical family than being the exception.

I’m sure that the vast majority of households do not apply these screen time limits.

Tell me I’m not the only one that thrusts an ipad and a phone into the arms of warring three and six year olds simply to stop the screaming?

In an effort to reduce or at least become more conscious of our screen time we’ve recently instituted the ‘first and last hour’ rule. For the first hour after you wake up and for the last hour before you go to sleep no devices are to be used. It applies equally to the big and little people in the house and so far it’s going well.

It’s been an adjustment for all of us. It’s been eye opening for the adults in particular to realise just how often you instinctively reach for a device, especially your phone, in any one hour period. We’ve made a list of all the non-digital things we can do, like walk the dog, read a book, load/unload the dishwasher or simply get organised for the day. And we even talk to each other a bit too!

194 new locals welcomed Nine years ago Sierra Leone man John Sandy was living in a Guinea refugee camp with 6,000 other men from war-torn countries like his own - seemingly with no future to look forward to.

He was separated from his wife, torn from his family and living in third-world squalour yearning for a better life.

That came in 2011 when he fled to Australia and was reunited in Newcastle with wife Isata after 12 years apart.

Fast forward eight years to Australia Day 2019 and Mr Sandy rejoiced when he and 193 other men and women from more than 46 different countries were officially welcomed by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes as new Australians.

“When I heard the news I was becoming an Australian Citizen, I was just so grateful and proud,” Mr Sandy said.

“It gives hope that people like me who have fled another country in fear of their life can find a new place elsewhere.”

The citizenship ceremony held at City Hall marked 70 years since the Australian Government first introduced Citizenship into Commonwealth law.

John Sandy and his wife Isata reunited in Newcastle after 12 years apart “In 1949, just seven men made history when they were sworn in as the nation’s first official Australians recognised under Commonwealth law,” Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.

“This year just in Newcastle

alone, that number was 194 people from 46 different birthplaces.

This shows just how far we have come as a multicultural inclusive community that welcomes people of all ethnicities and backgrounds.” the Lord Mayor said.

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Mobile phone ban in schools (continued from page 1) from complete restriction to promotion of safe, responsible and informed use. The decision will be made by individual schools in consultation with their communities.

“Distraction and bullying have always been issues for schools to deal with but mobile phones present a new challenge for schools, teachers, parents and students,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We want to ensure mobile phones and other smart devices complement students’ learning, and are handled at school in an age-appropriate way.”

“These changes will provide clear boundaries in our schools to ensure technology remains an enabler, not a detractor.”

Mr Stokes said the review stopped

short of recommending a ban on smart devices in high schools, but offered several approaches that schools could adopt based on their circumstances.

“We’ll work with schools to implement the changes recommended in the report, helping them manage the risks and rewards of using mobile phones inside the school gates,” Mr Stokes said.

“These changes are about keeping our schools safe and protecting the welfare of our students when they’re in our care.”

The reforms are in response to the independent Review into the noneducational use of mobile devices in NSW schools report, which the NSW Government commissioned last year.

The review was led by renowned

child psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, whose team considered input from almost 14,000 survey responses and 80 written submissions.

“I’d like to particularly thank the many thousands of young people and their families who took the time and effort to make submissions, as well as the many experts in mental health, technology and cybersafety who contributed to this report,” Dr Carr-Gregg said.

The review examined the impact of devices in schools on students of different ages in terms of educational outcomes and child development, as well as their potential benefits when used to complement teaching, particularly for students in the latter years of high school.

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State poll looms $

Are your voting enrollment details up to date?

On March 23 we’ll be going to the polls to elect the next state government, so now is the time to make sure all your details are correct.

If you’re unable to make it to a polling place on election day, from February 11 you will be able to apply for a postal vote or to use the electronic iVote system. iVote allows you to cast your vote in a similar way to the postal vote, but can be conducted online or over the phone.

The early voting period opens on March 11. Postal vote applications close on March 18, and iVote applications close on election day.

For more information about the NSW Election, visit www.elections.nsw.gov.au or call 9290 5999.

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Busy Brunker intersection improved City of Newcastle is upgrading the existing pedestrian crossing on Brunker Road at Mandalong Road, Adamstown, to increase driver awareness and improve safety for school children and other pedestrians.

Work commenced in mid-January 2019 during the school holidays and is expected to be completed in March.

The crossing is being raised and kerb extensions constructed on both sides to reduce the width of the crossing and to slow approaching traffic.

The lighting at the crossing will also be improved and tactile ground surface indicators installed to help pedestrians cross the road safely.

Traffic movements will be temporarily disrupted, with short-

The intersection of Brunker and Mandalong Roads is receiving an upgrade to improve driver awareness and pedestrian safety term detours in place as required.

Pedestrian movement is being

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'Fighting for our fair share'

Tim Crakanthorp MP State Member for Newcastle

Office: 1 Hunter Street, Newcastle Phone: 2 112 Email: newcastle@parliament.nsw.gov.au Tim Crakanthorp MP @crakanthorp Authorised by Isobel Marshall Australian Labor Party NS Branch) 123 Bruce St Cooks Hill NS 23

Mikado with a twist at YPT

It’s Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado, but not as you know it.

A collaboration between Young People’s Theatre and Lindsay Street Players will see Hot Mikado staged in Hamilton through February, taking the plot of the operetta and adding a jazz twist.

Despite the story’s life or death stakes, characters still find time to tap their toes and do their fair share of scatting. The 22-strong cast will be joined on stage by a live band for the eight performances.

Hot Mikado will play at the YPT Theatre on the corner of Lindsay and Lawson Streets Hamilton from February 8 to 23. Tickets can be purchased at www.ypt.org. au/bookings or by phoning 4961 The Local has a double pass to preferred performance day/time to 4895 between 9am and 1pm on give away to the production. To 0455 210 000 by February 5. enter text Mikado, your name and Saturdays.

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I will continue to stand up for the issues that are important to you.

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 7

Is your letterbox feeling lucky?

If one of the letterboxes pictured above is yours, you’ve won a $30 shopping voucher from one of three great local retailers.

Phone us at The Local on 0455 210 000 before Friday 15 February to confirm your address and choose your prize.

There’s a $30 voucher for Jarrett’s Quality Meats at Lambton, a $30 voucher for Q’s Books at Hamilton and a $30 voucher for Spar Express Lambton.

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First in best dressed with the choice of vouchers.

The vouchers must be claimed by 15 February then redeemed at your chosen retailer by 28 February.

All three lucky letterboxes were claimed last month.

Congratulations to the residents of 5 Belmore St Adamstown, 67a Gordon Ave Hamilton and 107 Hobart Rd New Lambton who each received a $30 voucher.

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Honours graduate shares with budding artists Newcastle’s youngest budding artists have the opportunity to explore the art-making process with a University of Newcastle Faculty Medal recipient who is now offering classes in Adamstown.

Alysha Fewster received the medal in 2017 when graduating with First Class Honours in Fine Arts, and has undertaken residencies and exhibitions in Newcastle and Sydney. She is also a member of Newcastle Art Gallery’s youth reference group.

To share her enjoyment of the creating process, Alysha will be running classes that explore a variety of mediums and ways to make art.

The classes are on Monday afternoons and are offered in the 5 to 7 and 8 to 12 age groups. For more information visit www.afewster.com/art

University of Newcastle Fine Arts graduate Alysha Fewster

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Art Society exhibition at Charlestown

“Summer on Nobby’s Beach”

by Rod Bathgate The Newcastle Art Society will be holding an exhibition at Charlestown Square until February 10.

It is an exhibition of the original work of the group’s members, and will see around 40 artists display work from a variety of mediums

including oil, watercolor, acrylic, pastel, pencil and mixed media.

“A feature of this year’s exhibition is the raffle prize, a soft pastel painting titled Summer on Nobby’s Beach, by internationally renowned local artist Rod Bathgate,” Newcastle Art Society

President Kate Belton said.

“He painted it at one of our recent meetings, as a demonstration, and donated it to the Society.”

The exhibition can be found in the centre court on Level 1, opposite H&M and Myer.

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The Beat Goes on

The complete Rebus Short Stories

By Ian Rankin Reviewed by John Ramsland

In this readable generous omnibus of stories, Scottish crime writer Ian Rankin continues, in my mind, to be unsurpassed among living British detective writers – as well as many who are now dead!

Included are some of his earliest stories. His writing is taunt, compulsive and highly satisfying for the reader. Influenced by Robert Louis Stevenson’s dualist character Doctor Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Rankin understands the division between the rational mind and the darker fantasies we keep hidden from view. He understands the criminal mind and how it works.

The stories contain puzzles and word plays with Detective Inspector John Rebus as the cipher who soon becomes a three-dimensional flawed human being dominating every page while solving crime. The author sees ‘a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma’ as something only Rebus can solve. He is the tough laconic loner, a brilliant cop who obsessively solves difficult crimes, like Javert in Hugo’s Les Miserables, but with a keen sense of humour, while his personal life sometimes lies in ruins. Apart from the brilliant evocation of the splendours and mean streets of Edinburgh, the stories progressively reveal the professional career of Rebus from a young raw policeman to a burnt-out inspector on the verge of retirement, still wishing to solve just one last case.

Rankin’s criminals are fascinating characters – from corrupt upper-ranked coppers to crime bosses, to petty thieves, to Santa Clauses in Department stores, to homeless men, to car dealers, to high-ranking powerful gentlemen and to neglected revengeful wives.

Occasionally, Rebus shows sympathy to some, but not all!

Is there a book you would like to review? Please get in touch with us at Q’s Books email: info@qsbooks. com.au

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The Big Quiz...

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner Alison Llewellyn of Young Rd Lambton. We will be in contact regarding your prize. The mystery photo was the AA Company’s monument at Learmonth Park in Hamilton.

This month’s quiz questions are below. You’ll find the answers, except for the mystery photo, within the pages of this issue.

Question 1 What does BAOC stand for?

Question 2 Where is Newcastle Art Society holding its current exhibition?

Question 3 Where was EJ & J Pearson’s Firebrick Works?

Question 4 Who led the independent review of non-educational mobile device use in NSW schools?

Question 5 Where was Saif Kabir born?

Question 6 In which local park would you find the brightly painted structure below?

Send your quiz answers by email to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au with ‘The Local Quiz’ in the subject line or post them to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by Friday 15 February for a chance to win a $50 open order to spend at any one local business advertising in this issue.

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Local > February 2019 > Page 17 • office@walllegal.com.au • 9 Alma Road, The New Lambton •

LOCAL

History with Phil Warren

Shale oil refinery

Nowadays oil from tar sands is a big industry in Alberta, Canada. Around 110 years ago a similar industry was established in the Hunter Valley – but ours was about obtaining oil from shale. The Maitland Weekly Mercury reported on 21 January 1911 that “All seems to be going well with the affairs of the British-Australian Oil Company”. The newspaper describes site works at Murrurundi that will mine shale and transport it by an aerial ropeway to the rail-side plant where the crude oil will be extracted and then transported to the purpose-built refinery at Hamilton that is connected to the main northern line by a railway siding.

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The Hamilton refinery was located near the corner of present-day Donald St and Chatham Road (more recently The Shell Depot). It was a substantial complex with four benches of ‘stills’ with the necessary charging, condensing and receiving tanks, and separators and connections, together with ancillary functions such as steel drum manufacturing and a chemistry laboratory to monitor product quality.

It was October 1911 before the first crude shale oil arrived at Hamilton for refining into a range of grades of oil and fuel.

The former site of the BAOC Refinery at Chatham Rd Hamilton today shows little evidence of the earlier enterprise.

It was an ambitious project, and the venture was a financial failure as the BAOC never paid any dividend. Business must have been tough as a shutdown was reported in 1913. Then the company re-opened in 1914 with a final closure and sale by tender of assets at both sites in June 1916. Factors impacting upon the viability of the company were the difficult geology, which had an impact on the cost of production, together with increasing competition from oil imports from the USA. In 2019 there is little physical evidence of the enterprise at either location with the Hamilton site being later developed as a fuel depot that ultimately closed in 2014. At Murrurundi an Australian Railways Historical Society report of a site visit from recent years found some rubble and debris, that was largely screened by scrub, and some large concrete foundations that supported the pylons for the mine to plant aerial ropeway.

BAOC Refinery construction at Hamilton (1911). Picture: Ralph Snowball, UoN Cultural Collections.

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Hamilton chamber is your business...

Hamilton Chamber of Commerce is a membershipbased organisation that promotes opportunities for people to live, work, dine, shop and play in the suburb.

We represent the rich multicultural heritage of our community while helping to showcase the modern flavour of cosmopolitan Hamilton.

As a part of the City of Newcastle, the Chamber advocates on behalf of our suburb to make our streetscapes beautiful, safe, accessible and a desirable destination for living and investment.

With other chambers and government, we work to create innovative ways to enjoy the inner-city suburbs of Newcastle, including community events such as Beaumont Street Carnivale, Christmas in Hamilton and China Week Festival.

For just $25 you can become a member of Newcastle’s most progressive and active Chamber.

Member benefits include: • Have a voice in what’s happening • Access priority benefits at major events • Be part of local marketing activities • Receive discounts on monthly and special events

If you’d like join the Chamber or find out more about what we do, go to www.hamiltonchamber.com.au or email: info@hamilton.com.au

Page 20 > The Local > February 2019

CHAMBER

Chat

by Nathan Errington President of Hamilton Chamber of Commerce

Join your Chamber

On behalf of Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, I would like to invite you to become a member of our chamber, as we work towards ensuring Hamilton is a vibrant, safe place to live, work and play.

Over the past 12 months, the not-for-profit membership organisation has been dedicated to creating a new flavour of cosmopolitan for the suburb while attracting opportunities for it to shine. Carnivale was hugely successful, while the installation of bus services following the Newcastle Jets’ and Matilda’s games was praised, after bringing more people into the suburb to experience the nightlife and cuisine on offer.

The Supercars meet and greet also drew thousands into Hamilton while putting the suburb on the map thanks to a live, national broadcast of the FOX program Trackside. Media coverage of this event also highlighted Hamilton’s offerings.

However, the Chamber is still facing its biggest challenge to date - Newcastle City Council’s decision to abolish the current framework of Business Improvement Associations. As President, I am concerned the new model will see a significant loss of funding for Hamilton while taking away the independence of local businesses and their ability to ask the tough questions of council. It will involve council creating or employing specialist skills to manage the activities we currently undertake at a cost to ratepayers.

That’s why we need your help. We need you to consider becoming a member to show your support for Hamilton Chamber and make a stand, to show council you want to be part of the decision making process.

Once you’re a chamber member, we will work towards promoting your business and ensuring Hamilton thrives. To sign up, simply visit the Hamilton Chamber website, www.hamiltonchamber.com.au I look forward to seeing you in cosmopolitan Hamilton.

Humans of Newcastle

by Melissah Comber

Bangladesh born Saif Kabir came to Newcastle in 2004 following a life’s journey that took him to Iraq, Kuwait, Jordan then Campbelltown and Grafton

Saif Kabir

Saif Kabir has taken the scenic route to get here, but he considers himself a Novocastrian.

The Bangalesh-born engineer grew up in the Middle East during the rise of Saddam Hussein, moving to Iraq at only a few months old, in 1977, which made living in a war zone his norm.

“I was very young,” he said.

“They dug a trench beside our house, but it for me it was very fun because I would play in there.”

In Iraq he was educated at a French school, but switched to an Arabic education when the family moved to Kuwait in 1983. His father’s job was the reason the family left Bangladesh, but it also became the reason the family had to return after the Hussein regime invaded the country in 1990.

An engineer, his father was working in the country’s power and water desalination plant, an essential service. Fearing the plant’s employees would flee the country, thereby shutting down the plant, Hussein threatened to lock everyone inside.

With assistance from their embassy, and via a UN refugee camp in Jordan, the family returned to Bangladesh where Saif completed his education, living with his extended family when his parents returned to Kuwait following the ceasefire.

He studied to be an engineer and then looked to obtain his Masters overseas, which was the done thing. Doing this in America was standard, however, Saif reached this step in his journey in 2002, when entering America had become more difficult.

From the suggestion of a friend Australia became an appealing option and after looking a several universities he elected to

study at UTS while living near Campbelltown, eventually gaining his first engineering job in Grafton.

“That’s where the real Australia is,” he said.

“You see the simplicity of normal people, they use the words ‘mate’, ‘bugger’, ‘bloke’.

“It was a very interesting time.”

Finally, in 2004, Saif made it to Newcastle where he now works on a coal loader, and has no intention of leaving. He joins parkrunners on Saturday mornings, and is currently the President of the Port Hunter Toastmasters.

“When you stay in a place these people become familiar faces,” he said.

“I’m a true Novocastrian” ---------------------------------------If you know a ‘Human of Newcastle’ whose story we should tell please email mel@hunterlocal. com.au The Local > February 2019 > Page 21

THAT WAS THEN

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This is now

with Lachlan Wetherall

The well-travelled brick

The Jesmond bushland may be a nature reserve, but it also contains a fair amount of rubbish from 200 years of European settlement. However, the garbage of one generation can become the historical artefacts for a later generation.

A few years ago, amongst the discarded soft drink bottles and cans of this age, I found half a brick bearing a partial inscription “EJ & J PE… LTD STOU…” With a bit of guesswork as to what the missing letters might be, an internet search revealed that it was from the EJ & J Pearson Firebrick Works in Stourbridge, in the West Midlands district of England.

Firebricks are a specialised kind of brick that can withstand high temperatures, and are used in the inner linings of furnaces or kilns. Although they were being made in Australia in the 19th century, they were considered inferior to those from the ‘mother country’.

Stourbridge in England was the celebrated hub of firebrick manufacturing. The Sydney Morning Herald reported in 1879 that “the Stourbridge fire bricks are known all over the world for their durability; indeed the clay used for this purpose cannot be surpassed.”

The “EJ & J Pearson” company was one of many brick makers in Stourbridge, and was founded in 1860 by Edward Jewkes Pearson and John Pearson.

By 1903 the company operated three sites and were producing approximately three-quarters of a million firebricks per week, to be used in England and around the world.

The brick that lies in the Jesmond bushland would probably have been used in a furnace, perhaps to provide air ventilation for the Lambton Colliery, or possibly to heat a boiler that powered a steam engine.

It is impossible now to know its exact purpose, or what year it arrived on our shores. But this welltravelled brick is a reminder that Newcastle with its port and industries has been from the beginning, and remains to this day, a globally connected city.

You can view these photos and more details at www. lachlanwetherall.com

Above: A firebrick from the EJ & J Pearson Company lies in the Jesmond bushland.

Below: One of the three EJ & J Pearson works in Stourbridge UK. Photo courtesy of www. stourbridge.com

At Elder Street, Lambton ates ■ Wills and Deceased Est l Disputes Wil ■ ■ Powers of Attorney ■ Criminal Law ion vis ■ Probate ■ Family Pro or we Appointments at our office urs offer mobile and out-of-ho . you t sui to s appointment -Smith, Principal solicitor, Chris Hill in list cia Accredited Spe Wills & Estates.

122 Elder Street Lambton 700 ph: 4956 1902 or 0422 113 .com.au email: admin@appletonlaw m.au web: www.appletonlaw.co The Local > February 2019 > Page 23

GETTING TO KNOW YOUR PIGGOTT’S PHARMACIST NICK NEWTON Nick has a passion for Africa!

Nick grew up in the Hunter Region and moved to Sydney to study pharmacy at the University of Sydney. Since graduating in 2002, Nick has worked in a number of roles in hospital and community pharmacy across the region as well as in the UK. He has lived in Newcastle for the last 12 years and in May 2018 began working as the managing pharmacist at Piggotts Pharmacy Blackbutt. With a keen interest in therapeutics and optimising medication management, Nick was accredited as a consultant Pharmacist in 2004 and continues to perform home medication review services on days that he is not in the Pharmacy.

Nick has an adventurous spirit, is a keen traveller and takes any opportunity to be active and enjoy the outdoors. Activities such as hiking, canyoning, kayaking, cycling and yoga are a few of his active interests.

Nick enjoys a challenge and often combines adventure travel with the opportunity to give back to charitable causes. In 2019, Nick has signed up to be a fourth time participant in the Camp Quality 1000Ks 4 Kids charity bike ride. The Piggotts Pharmacy group are sponsoring Nick on the ride, which will see a group of 60+ cyclists make the journey from the Gold Coast to Newcastle over a 10 day period in September, helping to raise funds for Camp Quality, this vital charity supports Children affected by Cancer and their families.

Pop in and say hello to Nick next time you are in the Blackbutt area.

Nick enjoys a challenge

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Page 24 > The Local > February 2019

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Do you require a specific medical dose or mixture, not available in pre-packaged medicines? Has your medication line been discontinued?

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 25

PROPERTY

Matters with Sue Odgers of Elders Real Estate, Lambton

To style or not to style This is one of those much discussed topics relating to presentation and marketing of residential real estate on which most people have an opinion, one way or the other.

Like it or not, styling definitely has an effect on the appeal of a variety of properties by adding finishing touches, to either partially or fully style any home or apartment so that it has more interest to the market.

It is becoming more affordable because of the number of businesses offering styling services, and also because they offer a variety of styles and setups

which are available to suit clients requirements or requests.

They offer what is called a soft style, which is just titivating the home with throw rugs, colourful cushions, paintings and general decorating items, while using your own furniture. This can be fairly cost effective and most stylists offer an obligation free on site quote to discuss your specific needs.

You may prefer a full style which includes furniture and decorator items throughout the property with prices varying depending on the size of the property and the amount of styling required.

Basically it depends on your preferences and the kind of property to be styled. The styling helps create an atmosphere by presenting a pleasing colour pallet to potential buyers.

It is also helpful for potential buyers to give them a good idea of the best use of the available floor space by setting up each area in an attractive and user friendly way.

We are finding that the appeal of having a property styled is becoming more affordable and therefore something more sellers are considering in an effort to add interest which in turn will hopefully tempt buyers to purchase their property.

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Page 26 > The Local > February 2019

MONEY

Matters

by Margaret Glenn CPA of Pritchard Partners

Why it’s important to track your super It’s our hard-earned money – so why do so many of us not pay attention to our super? Super is immeasurably important to our financial future, but it can be tricky to keep track of, particularly if you’ve changed jobs, worked casually or moved addresses. According to the latest figures from the Australian Taxation Office, nationwide, it’s identified as $14.12 billion of lost super, with a further $3.75 billion of unclaimed super.

Rees Pritchard

Here are some tips to making sure your super doesn’t get added to the tally.

1. Your employer must pay contributions into your super account - at least 9.5 percent of what you earn.

Sometimes this doesn’t happen, so it’s important you check your payslip and super statements.

2. Make sure your superfund has your current contact details including your tax file number. If your superfund can’t contact you for an extended period of time it might transfer your super to an eligible rollover fund.

3. Read statements sent from your fund. It should detail the amount in your account at the start and end of the period, along with how much you and your employer have contributed, any fees and how much you have earned on your super investments.

4. Keep all paperwork, including your product disclosure statement. This can help if you need to sort out a problem in the future.

5. If you change jobs, consolidate your super into one account. It will be easier to keep track of and you’ll avoid your hard-earned money becoming part of lost or unclaimed super. It also means you won’t be paying multiple management fees instead of just one.

6. If you’re unsure on whether all your super is accounted for, visit the Australian Taxation Office’s online service at www.my.gov.au.

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 27

PET

low frequency rumbles way before we can. These triggers can cause behavioural changes such as heightened anxiety and extreme stress. Watch your dog closely for symptoms like trembling, panting, drooling, pacing, whining, barking and being over clingy. Some dogs will hide away and not come out, others are so panicked that they become destructive or even aggressive.

Dogs often copy behaviour and will pick up fear from dogs and humans that they live with. Even if we are with Cheryl Shaw scared of storms, we must watch our own behaviour of Dogoverboard and show no signs of anxiety. Dogs are exceptionally intuitive at sensing our emotions. We need to try and stay calm, cool and collected. Never sook the dog, always act normally; do not pick up the dog or fuss over it. Replace fear with something positive. Maybe try playing some music, play a game with your dog or any usual activity that will distract your dog from focusing on the storm.

I’m a real fan of Queen and love Bohemian Rhapsody. There are special garments that may assist.

The words of that famous song are so true for many dogs. Thunderjackets are a compression garment which acts Storm phobia in dogs is quite common and many dogs like a cuddle, applying gentle constant pressure on the suffer real fear and are absolutely terrified even before body. Thundercaps are a see-through cap fitted to change the storm begins. The extreme fear can make them scale visual stimulation and can help in stressful situations. high fences, jump through glass windows, destroy doors Various wraps can also assist. and run long distances to escape the thunderstorm.

Sometimes without treatment the anxiety will worsen Dogs are quite clever and perceptive; they appear to and if left unchecked could lead to injury. You will then have their own kind of weather app, letting them know need professional help from your vet. well before us that a storm is on its way. Dogs can sense If you find a dog in a storm, please give it refuge to avoid the change in barometric pressure and static electricity. injury.

Because they have such acute hearing, they can hear the

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LAW

Matters

by Katherine Guilfoyle of Newcastle Legal

Property settlement following separation

One of the most frequent questions asked by family law clients is: “How can I finalise a property settlement with my ex?”.

There are three possible processes.

1. Consent Orders: When you can negotiate with your partner (often with the assistance of a lawyer) and agree on the proper division of property, Consent Orders are an inexpensive way to have the agreement formally approved by the Court.

A Judge or Registrar will review the proposed division of property “on the papers” to ensure the terms of settlement are not unreasonable. Usually no Court hearing is required.

2. Binding Financial Agreement (“BFA”): A BFA is a contract between you and your ex on the division of property.

Unlike Consent Orders the Court is not involved in a BFA at all. You and your ex are instead each required to have your own lawyer advise you on the fairness of the proposed division of property.

3. Going to Court: If you and your ex are unable to negotiate a division of property you can ask the Court to make the decision for you based on established principles, subject to the evidence in your particular case. Going to court is the longest and most expensive process. It should be avoided wherever reasonably possible.

Parties may also reach an informal agreement.

However, this may not be a final resolution as it provides you with very little protection if your ex later decides that he or she wants more.

If you have a family law issue seek advice from an experienced family lawyer.

Making Legal Easy FAMILY LAW MATTERS ➤ Explain Court processes and the laws that relate to Family Law. ➤ Negotiate with your ex-partner or their lawyer. ➤ Represent you in Court. ➤ Assist you through your family law matter.

Call 1800 003 004 for an appointment 17 Beaumont St, Hamilton T: 1800 003 004 E: mail@nlegal.com.au W: www.nlegal.com.au The Local > February 2019 > Page 29

AGE Matters with Joseph McCarthy CEO of NovaCare Community Services

Friendships, food and fun

Staying connected with our local community is critically important as we age. Thanks to our understanding of how we age, and access to better nutrition, healthcare and technology, we can all aspire to continue to embracing new things and the world around us.

sporting and health events. With more people living longer than ever before, it’s a great opportunity to explore new experiences.

NovaCare’s Day of Friendships, Food and Fun on Wednesday 20th February has a host of activities at Speers Point Park.

Discover Walking Football where the game is focused on passing rather that run-ning. In association with Northern NSW Football we are planning a demonstration and an opportunity for men and women over 50 to join in.

‘Moove & Groove Silent Disco’ is good for your brain and coordination. Move to your own rhythm as you dance in the park with us! As one groover said, “I’m just dancing with my headphones on, like nobody is watching, with a big smile on my face, lost in the music and movement.”

Or perhaps ‘Art in the Park ‘or a class of ‘Strength, Balance, Relax’ seem more your thing?

Plus, we’ll have our two Danish Cycling Without Age triobikes available to take you for a ride. to feel the wind in your hair.

There will be Devonshire Tea and a BBQ lunch, so In February, New South Wales Seniors Festival invites ring NovaCare on 1300 363 654 if you are interested. communities to celebrate ageing with music, art, Transport can be arranged.

Page 30 > The Local > February 2019

FITNESS Matters with Ali & Dan Marshall of Corefit Newcastle

Flexibility & mobility: what’s the difference?

One of the more common goals for the majority of our clients is that they want to be able to move better, with less discomfort.

We all want to do things with more ease and rightly so.

There are two key areas that will help you achieve this – mobility and flexibility.

So what’s the difference between mobility and flexibility? Or are they kind of the same thing?

The answer is they are both different AND both important when it comes to managing the function of your body.

• Flexibility is a muscle’s ability to move through its full range of motion.

• Mobility is a joint’s ability to move through its full range of motion.

For example, creating big circles through your shoulders is considered mobility, as you are working the shoulder joint through its full range of motion.

In contrast, reaching down to touch your toes is considered a stretch, as you are now working the muscles of the hamstrings through their full range of motion.

We are all born with optimal mobility however as we get older, our mobility gradually declines as things such as wear and tear, poor postural habits and poor movement patterns set in.

The good news is that you can help restore better mobility by setting a side just a few minutes each week to work on common tight spots such as the shoulders, pecs, hips and back.

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 31

GUT HEALTH

Matters with Sara Knight of The Gut Clinic

HAVE YOU GOT THE GUT TO BE HEALTHY?

● IBS ● SIBO ● Intolerance Testing

Adult Acne Workshop 5 March 2019 @ 6:30pm Call to book in!

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Page 32 > The Local > February 2019

Adult acne

A recent theme in my clinic has been adult acne. Whether it has simply been going on too long or an upcoming wedding, both men and women have been coming in to fix their gut in order to clear their skin. Although the skin itself and the potential scarring are key considerations, the main issue driving my clients to seek help is the effect acne has on their mood and self-esteem.

When looking at adult acne, the following two factors need to be considered first: 1) Pattern - is it cyclical (usually due to hormones or stress) or constant (best to consider food or stress)? It is important to note that stress has a major effect on our skin as well as our gut.

2) Is it straightforward acne or cystic acne? Cystic acne requires consideration of the bacteria balance in the body overall.

From here, we look at: a) Food - especially refined sugar, dairy and intolerances as these may be contributing to the acne, and also looking at healing foods that are high in zinc, protein and Vitamin C b) Stress resilience practices c) Fermented foods and probiotics d) Hormone balancing herbs and nutrients as needed In some cases, we need to do a “weed and feed” treatment using natural antibiotics to kill off the overgrowth of bacteria and yeast whilst promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. A significant benefit of natural antibiotics is that many also heal the gut whilst creating a healthy balance of bacteria.

For most people, it a combination of these factors, hence why working with a professional is best to make sure all factors are considered. Equally, supporting the mood through nutrients and herbs can also be helpful for my clients. Especially as results can take up to 3 months.

Results are enhanced and sustainable when simultaneously working with a skin therapist to better understand the role of oil production (not always too much oil) and the integrity of the skin barrier. Working both inside and out gets the best results for clearer skin.

Adult acne can be treated using food, nutrition and herbs which means avoiding the side effects of products some pharmaceutical treatments.

HEALTH Matters

by Trent Watson

CEO of Ethos Health

Tips for a good night’s sleep

Like oxygen, water and food, sleep is essential for life, as well as for health and wellbeing.

There are several things you can do to make sure you’re getting the best sleep possible.

1. Stick to a bedtime routine: It’s important for our bodies to obtain around 7-8 hours of sleep each night after a 16-17 hour period of wakefulness. This amount of sleep allows us to feel alert the following day.

2. Relax and avoid stimulating activities before going to bed: It’s recommended to do something relaxing (e.g. reading a book, taking a warm bath) to guide our thoughts in a positive direction before sleep.

Social media and screens can fuel the desire for more

information and socialising. Further, gazing at the blue/white light of screens can inhibit the release of melatonin, making it harder to get to sleep.

3. Avoid caffeine and nicotine close to bed: Caffeine and nicotine are both stimulants which can reduce your ability to get to sleep. Limiting caffeine to 3-4 drinks during the day and avoiding caffeine 3-4 hours prior to attempting to sleep may help.

4. Avoid alcoholic drinks before bed: A lot of people report that a ‘few’ drinks helps them go to sleep.

Alcohol is a depressant and can relax us, however, whilst alcohol puts you to sleep, it robs you of your vital REM sleep.

5. Don’t lie in bed awake and worry about getting to sleep: We usually make time for self-reflection when our head hits the pillow. One way to help yourself nod-off is to write a list of thoughts so you can relax, knowing you can resume your train of thought in the morning.

There are no known recommendations that work for everyone. Issues relating to sleep are often complex and often require multidimensional and personalised responses. If you find your sleep pattern concerning, the team at Ethos Health can help.

Ethos Health provides expert physiotherapy, dietician, exercise physiology and health and wellbeing programs for the individual and workplace.

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 33

VET Chat

by Dr Fiona Wallace of New Lambton Veterinary Clinic

Vet shortage?

I worked in a mixed practice up in Cessnock in the eighties. There were a lot of one-man practices around then and vets commonly used to work all day and take their phone home at night to cover emergencies. There was a general expectation that once you had your BVSc you were an expert on all things, and since evidence-based medicine had not yet been thought of we relied entirely on remembering what the old medicine professor had thought, or what had been demonstrated to us by the boss or in our surgery practicals.

Veterinary practice was about being innovative, making do and finding a way. And usually we did! We worked in practices without even a gaseous anaesthetic machine, let alone the intricate monitoring devices that we use today.

We strived to find the best outcome in the most hopeless of

cases, often working late nights and not charging for extra pain relief or the extra procedures we performed, or being forced to skimp on the diagnostic or therapeutic needs of the pet because we knew the bill was sky-rocketing.

Luckily the bad old days are over and today we have the support of overnight emergency centres and highly qualified specialists, modern gadgetry, highly trained veterinary nurses, and internet access to ensure the very best care for your pet. There is readily available credit for pet owners meaning that we do not have to skimp, and with the appearance of emergency clinics there is a general acceptance that we (like the rest of the world!) should work a 38 hour week and be compensated for the overtime that we do.

A recent article on ABC highlighted the poor mental health of the current crop of vets, reporting the difficulties to be had in finding vet assistance in many practices, the high rate of antidepressant usage in graduating classes (30%!), and most unsettling, the fact that vets have a suicide rate four times higher than that of our peers in other professions.

With everything going so well, what is going wrong??

My theory, for what it’s worth, is that the industry has changed immeasurably in a very short time – vets are still a soft-hearted bunch who get very attached to their patients, and while responding to the high expectations of owners feel responsible for both cost and outcome. Many blame themselves unjustly when things go wrong. It’s a brave new world out there. Be kind to your local vets, guys! We are re-inventing ourselves – and sometimes it’s not so easy!

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Page 34 > The Local > February 2019

ENVIRONMENT

Matters with Jono Allan

Nature’s own Snapchat

If you don’t know what Snapchat is, don’t find out; you can thank me later. For hostages of technology, it’s a messaging service for mobile phones, made unique because a message is available for a small number of seconds before disappearing and leaving us in a withering state ranging from low self-esteem to passionate envy.

The thing is, long before staring at our phones became a vocation, ecologists and birdos have engaged in nature’s version of Snapchat. It’s occurring in your backyard this minute. What’s better is there are no trolls or dislikes, just potential for curiosity and wonderment.

How does nature’s own Snapchat work? Stand still in your backyard and it will happen around you. A bird will land on a branch for a moment, it’s sure to be saying: ‘Hey look at me, check out my plumage and listen to my song’. Then it’s gone. Write down the characteristics of

the bird and repeat.

I caught up with local ecologist and passionate ‘birdo’ Allison Riley and asked her what’s trending in our backyards. Allison told me the social media equivalent of the Kardashians are the summer migrants, the dollarbird and sacred kingfisher.

The dollarbird usually arrives in our suburbs during September, returning to PNG and surrounding islands in autumn. It has a high number of ‘likes’ at this time of year due to the pretty, coin-shaped patches near the tips of their wings.

Birds in our backyard are important because urban areas are becoming homogenous and hostile to native birds.

Creating gardens and public spaces that encourage birds will help ensure we don’t lose any more species and in the case of the dollarbird will mean it’s able to continue the annual migration back to PNG. Allison recommends having a bird guide on hand to identify birds landing in your backyard and suggests the ‘Aussie Backyard Bird Count’ app is a great place to start. So, give the kids a challenge to spot a different bird each week for a month.

I’ll contact Allison later in the year to get the results of a night time, infra-red nature survey in our neighbourhood to see what lurks in our backyards when we’re asleep.

So next time you’re in the backyard or thinking about how to entertain the tin lids, participate in nature’s own Snapchat. I guarantee it will leave you feeling better because you’ll be observing nature and the beauty it brings, now that matters!

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 35

TRAVEL Matters

by Ian and Sue Roberts

of Memorable Destination www.memorabledestination.com

How Instagram is changing the way we travel

An important development in travel happened quietly over recent weeks.

‘Worldwide Community’, a leading international Instagram group, opened its first ‘hub’ in Australia @ww_australia - providing a whole new field of destination inspiration for travellers.

The extroadinary growth of Instagram - the fastest of any social platform - has changed the face of travel and has inherently altered the way travellers experience new things Research shows almost 70% of travel enthusiasts worldwide now rely on Instagram to find inspiration

for new journeys.

The impact of ‘Insta-tourism’ has forced the tourism sector to re-think strategies; directing marketing away from advertising toward the use of ‘instagram influencers’.

This is where Instagram hubs like @ww_australia come in. There are thousands of them, containing hundreds of thousands of artists, photographers and influencers who feature travel, landscape, nature, wildlife, portraiture, cityscape and street images.

People considering a holiday can easily see pictures of the most idyllic, traditional, cultural and exciting attractions - so it’s little surprise that travel behavior is changing as a result.

Because people engage with Instagram 10 times more than with Facebook, for example, travel and accommodation brands have moved onboard in huge numbers, providing more visual content that connects to our innate desire to discover and experience.

Attractions, increasingly, are also providing destinations with strong image potential, with the need for few, if any, words.

Follow Ian and Sue’s travels on www. memorabledestination.com or on Instagram at @ memorable_destination, @memorable_travels or @ memorable-hotels.

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Page 36 > The Local > February 2019

GP

Chat

by Dr Ben Seckold of Hamilton Doctors

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects the colon, or large bowel, which is the part of the digestive tract that stores stool (poo). People with IBS appear to have sensitive bowels that are easily ‘upset’.

IBS is a very common problem. One in five Australians have the unpleasant symptoms of IBS at some time. It is more common in women, often comes on in the late teens or early twenties and may come and go over a person’s life.

The main symptoms of IBS are: • Abdominal pain or discomfort that is often relieved by passing wind or faeces • Stomach bloating • Chronic diarrhoea or constipation, or alternating between the two What symptoms are not due to IBS? Bleeding from the back passage, weight loss, fever or

severe diarrhoea at night are not due to IBS. If you have these problems, further tests will be necessary.

What causes IBS? No one knows the exact underlying cause of IBS. Certain factors can ‘trigger’ attacks including • Infection • Food intolerances • General diet – low in fibre • Stress • Medications – antibiotics, antacids and painkillers How is IBS diagnosed?

If your symptoms are typical, you may not need any tests at all. Diagnostic tests will be required if you are over 40 years old when you develop symptoms, if you have a family history of bowel cancer or if it is suspected that your symptoms are caused by other illness such as coeliac disease inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis or polyps.

These tests may include: • Full medical check-up • Blood tests, including blood tests for coeliac disease • Simple stool/poo test • Investigation of the bowel lining by inserting a small tube (sigmoidoscopy) • Investigation of the bowel under sedation (colonoscopy) or barium enema, if necessary.

How do you treat IBS? • Anti-diarrhoeal agents eg Gastrostop • Pain-relieving medications • Constipation treatments (fibre supplements or laxatives) • Antispasmodic agents (buscopan or peppermint oil capsules) • Tricyclic antidepressants • Establishing eating routines and avoiding sudden changes of routine.

4961 3017

GOT GAS?

One in five Australians have the unpleasant symptoms of IBS at some time, but you don’t have to suffer in silence.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY & GET SOME RELIEF!

On the day appointments available Accepting new patients!

46 James Street Hamilton 2303 | 62 Denison Street Hamilton 2303 |office@hamiltondoctors.com.au The Local > February 2019 > Page 37

Local & Live entertainment this month The Duke

Fri 1 Sat 2 Fri 8 Sat 9 Fri 15 Sat 16

Dave Carter Redline Duo Matt Scullion Dean Kyrwood Duo Jamie Martens Zane Penn Duo

Hamilton Station Hotel

Lizotte’s

Sat 2 Mid City + Guests Wed 13 Sunscreen, NTL

Landmarks, Underlay Fri 15 Muncie Girls (UK),

Ben David [The Hard

Aches], The Lazy Susans Sun 17 Ruby Gill, Demi

Mitchell, Edda Srey Wed 20 Bin Lids Throw a

Christmas Party Fri 22 Dande And The Lion

Fri 1 8 Ball Aitken Sun 3 Bad Moon Rising -

Creedence Clearwater

Revival Show Wed 6 Live N Local Thu 7 Irish Mythen Fri 8 Unlocking the Doors Sat 9 Bloom Sings The Linda

Ronstadt Songbook Sun 10 The Legendary Brian

Cadd & Russell Morris Wed 13 Live N Local Thu 14 Valentines Day with

Andy Firth and Rodric White Fri 15 Grant Walmsley

Freebird Blues Band

Hotel Jesmond Fri 7 Fri 17 Fri 21 Fri 28 Fri 22 Sat 23

Brien McVernon Phonic Duo

Exchange Hotel Fri 9

Fri 15

FABBA (ABBA Tribute Band) Californication (Red Hot Chilli Peppers Tribute Band)

Gallipoli Legion Sun 2

Shivoo

Sun 9

Marriah

Chad Shuttleworth Duo Crawfish Stew Shivoo Michael Mills

Lambton Park Hotel Sat 2 Fri 8 Sun 10 Fri 15 Sat 16 Fri 22 Sat 23 Sun 24

Sound of Sunday TK Stylez Truman Smith Madelyn Ryan Daley 2 Shades Duo Dean Krywood Brien McVernon

Sat 16 Benny O Circus Of Illusion Wed 20 Live N Local Fri 22 Songs Of The Sixties Sat 23 Christine Anu

Sun 16 Mustang Sun 23 Pam & Les Gully +

John Bond

The information on this page was correct at time of printing. Please check all details with the respective venues.

Page 38 > The Local > February 2019

Local & Live entertainment this month Wed 27 Live N Local Thu 28 Think Rock n Food Trivia

Nags Head

Northumberland Hotel

Fri 1

Brien McVernon

Sat 2

Michael Peter

Fri 8

Dean Kyrwood

Fri 1

Anthony Lee

Fri 15

The Instigators

Sat 2

Kevin O’Hara

Fri 22

Jim Overend

Fri 8

Reg Sinclair

Sat 9

Joel Rocter

Fri 15

Zane Penn

Sat 16

Phil McKnight

Fri 22

Mike Vee

Sat 23

Pap & That

Newcastle Theatre Co. Fri 1 Sat 2

Quartet Quartet

Guy Richards

Sat 2

Allon, Codi Kaye

Fri 8

Holly Mae

Sat 9 Jayde Corner, Greg McKew Fri 15

Mark Wood

Sat 16

Nano, Chris Saxby

Fri 22

Dean Kyrwood

The Big Bang

Wickham Park Hotel Fri 1

Milestones

Sat 2

Holly Mae Trio, Marshall & The Fro

Sun 3

Tim Rossington, The Blues Bombers

Sun 10 Mark Wells, Ron

Knight & The

Daze Band

Wests New Lambton Fri 1

Iguana

Sat 2

Mark Wells Duo

Fri 8

The Years

Northern Star Hotel Fri 1

Misbehave

Sat 23

Sat 9 Sunhill Drive, Soul Movers

Newcastle Ent. Centre Thu 21 Daniel O’Donnell

Fri 22

Thu 14 Centre Stage Show

with Brien McVernon

and Dai Pritchard Sat 16

Karl The Bartender, Georgie + Helena Kitley Duo + Little Cents + More TBA

Sun 17 Steve Edmonds Fri 22

One World

Sat 23

Rickabilly Festival

Sun 24 Greg Bryce Solo, Fish Fry

Sat 9

Gen-R-8

Fri 15

Cruzers

Sat 16

2GoodReasons

Sat 23 Brent Murphy, Brandan Murphy

Venues: would you like your local and live entertainment listed here for free? Email grace@hunterlocal.com.au The Local > February 2019 > Page 39

Local news from another time...

From Newcastle Morning Herald & Miners’ Advocate, Friday 8 February 1889

From The Newcastle Sun, Thursday 2 February 1928

From Newcastle Morning Herald, Saturday 14 February 1953

Page 40 > The Local > February 2019

Local Community Group Notices CHILDREN & FAMILIES MAINLY MUSIC Mainly Music is a music program for 0-5 yr olds and their caregivers. It runs Wednesdays 9:3011:30 am during school terms at the Anglican Church Hall, cnr Oxford & Cromwell Street, New Lambton Cost is $5 per family. Call Beck Bishop 0416149633 for more info.

PLAYGROUP MULTICULTURAL NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE Operates in partnership with KU Childrens Services, Northern Settlement Services and Mission Australia. A playgroup that is held for children aged 0-5 years accompanied by a parent or guardian each Tuesday during school term. A second playgroup is held on Fridays. Both operate from 10am to 12 noon and places are currently available. Each playgroup follows normal playgroup practices with a range of childrens activities including craft, painting, storeytelling, singing and free play. The playgroups are nondenominational and appreciate cultural diversity.

Come along and enjoy the Playgroup experience in a safe and friendly environment- no cost. Ph 4965 5291 for more information.

HOME-START FAMILY SERVICES Home-Start is a voluntary service offering support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under 5 where the parents are experiencing difficulty in their parenting roles or are under stress. For information about volunteering or Home-Start services ph 4952 9488 or go to: www.homestartaustralia.org/

ATTENTION COMMUNITY GROUPS Please email your notice to: admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or post it to PO Box 130, Lambton by 15th of the month. Note that submissions may be edited or omitted to fit available space.

COMMUNITY GROUPS NEW LAMBTON COMMUNITY FRIENDSHIP CLUB We have been operating for 41 years helping the elderly with their lonely days, get out of those four walls and enjoy life come join us every Tuesday at Trinity Church Hall corner Regent St and Portland Place New Lambton 10 am till 2 pm with musical entertainment from 1 pm till 2 pm. For further information ring Joy Loas Ph 4952 2664 –Margaret Amm 4962 1058 or Jack Lawson 4968 9442.

LAMBTON RESIDENTS GROUP Residents of Lambton area are welcome to come along to our monthly meeting. You too can be a part of some exciting and worthwhile initiatives and projects for our local area. Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of each month (excluding January) commencing at 5.30pm at Lambton Bowling Club. No RSVP needed. For more information email: lambtonresidents@gmail. com or call Nicola on 0402 949 854.

THE COMMUNITY KITCHEN MEREWETHER Provides a free 3 course meal each Tuesday at 6pm, from February to December to all who are in need of food and companionship. Orange Sky Laundry provide a washing service and food is available to take away. Merewether Uniting Church Hall 178 Glebe Rd, Merewether.

Everyone Welcome. Enquiries 0411 133 679 jennifer.burns51@gmail.com

KNIT & NATTER Meet new people, make new friends at knit & natter every Monday. Meet at Mayfield Church of Christ, cnr Werribi St & Gregson Avenue at 9.30am. All ladies welcome. Phone Lyn for information. 4952 9324

The Local > February 2019 > Page 41

Local Community Group Notices COMMUNITY GROUPS

HOBBIES & INTERESTS

MEREWETHER ALL - SORTS Is a volunteer led group for people who have lost abilities from adverse health events or accident providing a space for friendship, fun and strengthening skills. The program includes exercises, games, activities, entertainment by local groups and occasional lunch outings.

Morning tea is provided and BYO lunch.

Merewether All-Sorts is a place where everyone is offered acceptance, encouragement and belonging. Held every Tuesday 10am - 2pm from February to December at Merewether Uniting Church Hall 178 Glebe Rd, Merewether. New members and Volunteers welcome. Enquiries Jennifer Burns Ph 0411 133 679, jennifer. burns51@gmail.com

JANE AUSTEN SOCIETY HUNTER meets every two months for talks by members and guests, discussion and special events. Presenting Fanny Palmer, Jane Austens Transatlantic sister.

Fanny Palmer, wife of Charles Austen, led an extraordinary roving navel life for a genteel young woman during the Napoleonic Wars.

She also deveoped an amicable relationship with Charles’s sister, Jane, through which she appears to have influenced Austens creation of female naval characters in Persuasion. Next meeting Wednesday 20 February 2019. Ethnic Communities Council John Gebhardt Centre, 2a Platt St Waratah, Entry $5, afternoon tea included. Find us on Facebook, contact 4929 1353 or margste@wix.com.au

HOBBIES & INTERESTS ANTIQUE BOTTLE AND COLLECTORS CLUB If you would like to know more about our club, please come along to one of our meetings, held on the second Wednesday of each month February to November, at the Minmi Progress Hall in Woodford Street Minmi 7.30pm. to see what we do members collect a varied lot of items. Phone Tom 0418 403 910 or 4957 5220.

EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD NSW INC. NEWCASTLE BRANCH Meets each Monday at New Lambton Community Centre, Cnr Alma Road and Cromwell Street.

9.30am –-9pm. Visitors and beginners very welcome. Email : newcastleembroiderersguild@ gmail.com Community groups & not-for-profit organisations can submit notices for publication free of charge.

Email to: admin@hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of month

Page 42 > The Local > February 2019

SENIORS GROUPS NEW LAMBTON/HONEYSUCKLE PROBUS CLUB Is a mixed club enjoying monthly meetings with a Guest Speaker and regular monthly outings.

The aim of Probus is for retired or semi retired people looking for friendship, fellowship and fun. We meet at Kotara Bowling Club at 10am on the 4th Friday of each month. Please contact the Secretary, Andrew Wilson, on 0412 016 515

RSL COFFEE POT DAY CLUB MEREWETHER Looking for something to do on a Friday? RSL Coffee Pot Day Club Merewether meets at St Augustine’s Church Hall, Windor St Merewether between 10am and 2pm. We offer morning tea, luncheon, guest speakers, games, entertainment, light exercise, mental stimulation, bus trips and a general all round good time. Transport can be arranged if needed. For further information contact Bev Bennett on 4963 7540 or Carole Seymour on 4957 8495. All welcome.

Local Community Group Notices SENIORS GROUPS LAMBTON SENIORS GROUP Offering friendship and support for over 55’s.

Meet at the Anglican Church Hall, Morehead St, Lambton every Thursday 9 am for canasta, or other card and board games to 12.30 pm. Ph Don on 4952 8590 or Nola on 4952 3685 for further details. New people always welcome.

ACTIVEMOVES Friendly group exercise classes for seniors in Adamstown Uniting Church, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9.30am to 10.15am.

The classes are designed to improve strength, cardio health and focus on falls prevention. Run by accredited exercise professionals trained in managing safe, low impact programs. Exercises are modified to suit the individual who can excercise at own pace in a social environment.

Everyone welcome. More information at www. activemoves.com.au or phone Jess 0402 931 226.

NEW LAMBTON SENIOR CITIZENS & PENSIONERS ASSOCIATION Make new friends while enjoying a warm and caring fellowship as well as to partake in the fun games of bingo and chats over a cuppa. Where?

The New Lambton Seniors Assocation, located at the New Lambton Community Centre, 14 Alma Road, New Lambton. Handy to bus stops!

Contact Ph 4963 4631.

COMPUTERPALS FOR SENIORS NEWCASTLE Located at 15 Hubbard Street, Islington ComputerPals Newcastle offers lessons and activities to help seniors with their mobile phones, tablets and computers in a friendly environment.

Free classes are available through the ‘Be Connected’ network at our clubroom. Ph: 4961 6576 (during business hours). Email contact@ computerpals.org.au or web computerpals.org.au

SPORTING CLUBS LAMBTON PARK TENNIS CLUB It is easy to book and pay for a court at our club.

1. Just Google “lambton park tennis” and click on “Lambton Park Tennis Club-NSW-Australia” (www.tennis.com.au/lambtonpark). 2. Fill in the date and time you want to book. 3. Click on “Register”, fill in your details and create an account. 4. Click on “Sign up”. 5. Book and pay for your court - and you are all set. Next time you book it will be just a few keystrokes.We even have complimentary racquets and balls which any hirer can use if you don’t have your own.

Any problems phone 0401 193 411.

NEWCASTLE PETANQUE CLUB Do you have a set of Boules and rarely play with them? Then come along to Newcastle Petanque Club and enjoy the game under expert tuition.

Come and try days are held on second Sunday of each month at the Club based in Nesca Park Cooks Hill (Corner Brooks St & Nesca Parade) commencing 9.30am and running for 2-3 hours.

Newcomers and experienced players welcome.

Other playing days are Wednesday afternoon from midday and Saturday afternoon from midday. Contact Jim for further details 4960 0945.

SENTOKI ALLIANCE MARTIAL ARTS With over 25 years experience, we teach Taekwondo, Muay Thai, Karate, Kick Boxing, Boxing and Self Defence. We are family friendly and welcome you to our all ages classes, from school age and up. We are a not for profit Inc. Association, fully insured, Working with Children clearance and providers of NSW Active Kids. One month free training, Wednesday and Friday nights 6.00-7.30pm, Lambton/Waratah Scout Hall 8 Elder St Lambton. For more info sentokialliance@gmail.com or Facebook @ sentokiAlliance.

Community groups and not-for-profit organisations are welocome to submit notices by email to: admin@ hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of month The Local > February 2019 > Page 43

Specialists in property sales and management, commercial sales and residential rentals.

NEW LAMBTON

1/6 Alma Road, New Lambton Phone: 4956 3033 • daltonpartners.com.au

DALTON PARTNERS Page 44 > The Local > February 2019

Dalton P A R T N E R S

DOG GROOMING

JHB

Dogoverboard

Concrete garden & driveway edging Concrete resurfacing with a range of colours and stencils available

The fun and healthy place for dogs

The most comprehensive dog care centre in NSW!

Recolouring and repairs to existing edging

FIND US ON

@ JHB Kerbing

LAWN MOWING

SAFE FRIENDLY

Minor landscaping jobs Other odd jobs at reasonable rates

FREE QUOTE CALL 0411 542 395

YOUR LOCAL ELECTRICIAN

TIDY Phone 4957 8500 Open 7 Days 10 William Street Adamstown dogoverboard.com.au Follow us on /Dogoverboard

PLUMBER

ON TIME

Lic #: 94942C

KERBING & SPRAY

ELECTRICIAN

PHONE: 0467 682 017 djcelectrician@gmail.com

PLUMBER

DAVE DOES LAWNS NO JOB TOO SMALL!

Dave is the owner of a local lawn mowing business, who has an intellectual disability.

His goal is to achieve financial independence.

Dave has friendly service and very competitive rates!

Ph: 0429 052 995 or email dave.prince@bigpond.com

ADVERTISE HERE

PETER DEDMAN PLUMBING • ROOFING • GUTTERING • • GASFITTING • DRAINAGE • • WATER SERVICES •

24HR

BREAKDOWN SERVICE

M: 0434 359 855

E: peterdedman.plumbing@hotmail.com Lic. No. L14074

ADVERTISE HERE

Your Local Plumber Servicing New Lambton, Lambton and surrounding suburbs… ➤ Plumbing ➤ Drainage ➤ Gas Fitting ➤ Blocked Drains ➤ CCTV pipe inspections ➤ Friendly and Reliable Service 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE, ALL WORK GUARANTEED

CALL FOR A FREE COMPETITIVE QUOTE

Phone Jon on 0400 603 545 www.olsenplumbing.com.au

ADVERTISE HERE

Attention local trades & services businesses

Advertising in The Local is cost-effective and it works.

Generate more business for your business in your local area by reaching out to more than 21,000 homes each and every month.

Readers of The Local love using local services, services they know and trust. Do the locals know about your business? If not, why not?

Call Mark on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal.com.au today to see how cost-effective it is to have your business included in this local trades and services directory.

Local Trades and Service Directory

CONCRETE KERB

The Local > February 2019 > Page 45

Local Classifieds...

FOR SALE

HONEY 100% pure raw organic honey $13 per kg Ph 0423 050 778 KAWAI PIANO Good condition, CE-7, chestnut colour, stool and some sheet music $1200. Ph:0420 855 511.

SEA KAYAK VFT 3 4.6m long 15kg Kevlar construction. Includes spray covers, back rest and paddle, in good condition. Good touring boat, suit lady paddler, colour pink. $750 ono Ph 4952 4064 TOY GORILLA Black stuffed soft toy gorilla 1000 mm tall $50 Ph: 0418 509 002.

WALKER 4 wheel walker, hand brakes, wire basket, good cond $50 Ph: 4957 1747.

WANTED

NEW CENTURY CAPTAIN JUSTICE COMICS Looking to buy Numbers 5,7,14,15,16 Ph 4952 7459 CARD PLAYERS Looking for 2 card players to play cards on Thursday nights. If you are over 60 and interested, New Lambton or Georgetown area ladies or gents welcome Ph: 0418 509 002.

DRESSMAKER Wanted: dressmaker to make simple dresses. Ph 0419 295 150 GARAGE WANTED TO RENT Hamilton South/ Hamilton area For great family’s overflow!

References available. Will pay $15 per week. Ph 0416 608 364 ROWING MACHINE Rowing machine wanted to modify slightly for disabled man.

Phone Colin Ph 0459 093 925

FREE

PINE WOOD PALLETS Ideal for kindling, garden or woodwork projects. Pick up Lambton. 2 or 3 available each month.

Ph 0455 210 000

NOTICES

ASTROLOGY Teacher of Astrology qualified with 32 years experince. Classes in my home, private tuition, personal charts, childrens charts and gift vouchers. Cheryl Ph 0403 750 943.

CPTG ESSENTIAL OILS Learn how to use oils for natural health solutions in your day to day life. No tox your home, classes available Ph: 0434 110 771.

DAY COACH TRIPS Lunch on the Lake cruise 27/2, trip to Morpeth Sat 23/2, details and bookings phone Don Ph 4952 8590.

Something to sell or to tell? Try our FREE Local Community Classifieds. They work!

Name _____________________________ Address ________________________________ _____________________________________________ Phone ________________________ Email_______________________________________________________________________ Write the wording of your advertisement below. (Max. 25 words please) Text: _______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Classification ( ie For Sales, Notices, Garage Sales, Wanted etc):__________________ Complete this form and post it to: ‘Local Classifieds’ PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 or email: admin@ hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of the month. We reserve the right to not publish advertising considered inappropriate or not in the spirit of the free classifieds offer. Private party ads only. For business classifieds advertising please email admin@hunterlocal.com.au Page 46 > The Local > February 2019

Local Classifieds...

NOTICES

HALLS FOR HIRE AT LAMBTON Morehead Street Lambton, Main Hall and smaller hall called the Green Room, which has separate entrance, kitchen and toilets, off street parking.

Available for permanent and casual bookings. Very reasonable rates. Contact Rev Maree Armstrong at St John’s Anglican Church, Lambton.

Ph 4957 1073 HOUSE CLEANING Reasonable rates with insurance.

Reliable and eco friendly products used.

Weekly, fortnightly, monthly or one off jobs. Shannon Ph 0404 087 475.

IRONING Need help with ironing? Drop off my house New Lambton in morning, pick it up in afternoon. $25.00 level basket. Call Lyn

Ph 0432 174 618 KELLIE’S AT HOME BEAUTY SERVICES ADAMSTOWN Females only please. Massages 30 mins $25. 60 mins $50, facials 30 min $25 - 60 mins $50. Other services available. for appointment Ph 0439 448 588.

RODDO’S LAWN & GARDEN MAINTENANCE Services provided include mowing, residential, commercial, body corporates, weed eradication programs, gardening etc. We cover all your lawn & garden maintenance needs.

Fully insured, For your free quote call Rod on 0427 608 792 or email: Musicman4u@bigpond.com

THEATRE TRIPS Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Sydney. Peter Pan Goes Wrong Sunday 17/2/2019 Sydney Ph Don 4952 8590.

NOTICES

NOTICES

PEST CONTROL Guaranteed. Average home $150, units/town houses $80, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Hunter Valley areas. German Cockroaches a specialty.

Ph 0418 637 990

Eric Loi

GGUITAR UITAR & BAS BASS TUITION

RELAX AND MEDITATE For everyone over 15. New Lambton Community Centre, 14 Alma Road New Lambton. Every Sunday from 8.30 to 9.30am.

Sessions are free of charge, sessions. Not run on Public Holidays. Ph 0416 193 005 TUTORING $30/HR Mature female science/ engineering graduate available for HSC maths, physics, chemistry tutoring, and grades 3 - 10 general tutoring. Will travel within ‘The Local’ distribution area. Email ljspooner8@gmail.com or

Ph 0491 142 129 YOGA OPTIONS FOR EVERYONE! For ladies, for gents, for those restricted in movement after injury or illness, new to yoga or simply seeking a healthier life choice. Chair Classes, Beginners Classes & General Balanced Classes, focussing on optimal alignment with gentle stretching, strengthening, breath awareness, relaxation & more! Diploma qualified teacher (IYTA).

Express your interest for upcoming classes in your local area. I invite you to experience the benefits of regular yoga practice & feel the difference.

Gift vouchers available - a worthwhile gift for someone you love.

Phone Michelle Pirie 0400 790 479

AAllll sstyles & levels Studio in New Lambton Phone: 00419 642 096 Email: ericloimusic@bigpond.com LOST PARROT REWARD OFFERED Please help us find our Princess Parrot. Her name is Allie. She is 2 years old and house trained so you may see her in your garden. She has a leg band and her number is 003. She loves food and will come to you if you offer it. Please phone Nicole on the number below or post on Newcastle Lost Pets on Facebook Ph 0413 120 168 Solution to crossword on page 44 W A K

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N E M A O W E S

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The Local > February 2019 > Page 47

Saving you money on your Scripts!

The Pharmaceutical Benefit Safety Net Scheme is a way of ensuring that you do not pay too much for your prescription medicines. If you spend more than a certain amount in a year (the Safety Net threshold), you become entitled to cheaper or FREE pharmaceutical medicines for the remainder of that calendar year.

Piggott’s Pharmacy will keep a record of how much you have spent on prescription medicines and process the paperwork for you to make sure that YOU get the maximum SAVINGS and discounts which you are eligible for. If you happen to visit another Pharmacy, we can contact them for you and add those scripts to your record. If you have family, all of your prescriptions can be included on the one Safety Net Record Form.

Ask Piggott’s Pharmacy about the many services we provide: ♥ Personalised Piggott Pill Pouches ♥ Home Medication Reviews ♥ ♥ Keep your Scripts on file ♥ Free local delivery ♥ Pop into any Piggott’s Pharmacy or call us today to see how we can make your life easier and save you money.

Like @piggotts to keep informed with health topics, promotions and getting to know our staff.

If it’s about your Health?

PIGGOTT’S BLACKBUTT PHARMACY 58 Orchardtown Rd, New Lambton Phone: 4957 2474

PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY HAMILTON 83 Beaumont Street, Hamilton Phone: 4961 3179

PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY ON GLEBE 400 Glebe Road, Hamilton South Phone: 4969 1978

PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY LAMBTON 117 Elder Street, Lambton Phone: 4957 3630

Page 48 > The Local > February 2019

♥ www.piggottspharmacy.com.au ♥