The Local - February 2022 by The Local - a community newspaper for suburbs in Newcastle (NSW)

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Like us on Facebook or go to www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au for community news • Issue No 94 • Newcastle’s favourite community newspaper • February 2022 •

Record demand for Lifeline Local Lifeline crisis supporters worked tirelessly over the summer holiday period on the 13 11 14 service to meet record community demand for support. In October last year, 35 new recruits – up from the usual 24 - started on the phones at Lifeline’s Newcastle and Central Coast call centres. Lifeline Hunter and Central Coast now has 134 crisis supporters. Lifeline Hunter Central Coast’s senior crisis support team leader and trainer, Jen Hillis, said New Years Day was the services’ busiest ever, with Lifeline taking more than 3700 calls nationally. “Calls to 13 11 14 are up 25 per cent since the start of the pandemic and this continued through the Christmas period,” Ms Hillis said. “Christmas can be a difficult time for many but this year it was made worse by increased anxiety surrounding COVID 19,” she said. (continued on page 4)

New Lifeline recruit Tammii Suprano in training with Hunter Central Coast senior crisis support team leader Jen Hillis

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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 Founder & publisher: Mark Brooker

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

Advertising bookings for March issue will close Monday 14 February The Local is lovingly produced then carefully hand delivered each and every month to more than 11,000 residential letterboxes and businesses in Lambton, North Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, Broadmeadow, Hamilton North, Jesmond and Kotara. You can find back issues of The Local and check out the latest community news and information at: www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au or on our Facebook page @thelocalnewcastle. If you enjoy receiving The Local in your letterbox each month please support the businesses you see advertising on these pages. Without their support your local paper could not and would not happen. Pretty simple really...

....and here’s some fine print 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 noted otherwise, 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 the prior, explicit consent of the publisher. The Local is printed on Australian-made paper using up to 55% recycled fibre. The Local is 100% recyclable. Please recycle it, but of course only after you’ve read it!

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Oh my, Omicron Put your hand up if you’re tired of COVID-19 and everything about it (* imagines every reader’s hand go up in unison). You’re tired of hearing about it; tired of the evergrowing statistics for case numbers, hospitalisations and deaths; tired of the ever-changing public health orders; tired of chasing your tail looking for RATs. Tired of politicians scrambling to deal with the crisis and seemingly unable to accept any responsibility for their shortcomings. We’re all tired, and rightly so. It’s no wonder then, as reported on our front page, that crisis support services like Lifeline have received a record number of calls for help in recent months. With the surge in case numbers putting immense strain on both the health system and the economy levels of despair right cross the poulation have increased. What can we each do? If it’s you in despair, please ask for help. It may be a family member, a neighbour or even a stranger that you reach out to. Help is at hand if you ask for it. At the top left of this page you’ll find my phone number. If you have no one else to reach out to please call me. If you encounter someone in need of help, whether it’s a family member, a friend a neighbour or even a stranger please be there for them. Refer them to support services if that’s appropriate. Some experts (the epidemiological experts rather than the political experts) are starting to say that the Omicron wave may have peaked for us locally. Let’s hope so! Times will be better soon. www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Blood donors needed now The head of Lifeblood’s donor centre network, Cath Stone, said this year’s holiday season had been like no other as the number of appointments not being attended reached record highs. “Donor numbers have plummeted due to a perfect storm of people waiting on COVID-19 test results or quarantining, many being away with the reopening of borders, and donors wanting to spend more time with family and friends. “More than half of all appointments are not being attended, which means we need more donors to roll up their sleeves and take the place of those who can’t donate,” Cath said. She said it was critically important that people donate blood between now and the new year, with donor centres open every day. “In particular we are looking for people with O and A blood types to donate blood. These blood groups make up nearly 90 per cent of patients in hospital and we need donors of these blood types to donate this week to maintain our supply. “With one in three of us needing donated blood in our lifetime, the life you save could be that of a friend or family member.”

She said maintaining supplies during the festive period was always a seasonal challenge for Lifeblood, but the nation’s largest blood donor centres in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne were being particularly affected this season. “We know that current circumstances can make it difficult for people to give blood, with donors who are waiting

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on COVID-19 test results or quarantining unable to donate. Right now, we need others – in this case people with O and A blood types – to take the place of those who can’t donate.” The Newcastle Donor Centre is located at unit 1, 165 Lambton Rd, (corner of Bridges Rd) Broadmeadow. To book a donation call 13 14 95 or go to www.lifeblood.com.au/

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Record demand for Lifeline (continued from page 1)

listening and less talking.”

“Lifeline is there for people 24/7 - to listen without judgement, acknowledge their pain, and offer hope.”

“We are crisis supporters, not counsellors. Our role is to walk alongside people in their moment of crisis, to sit with them in the mud, not necessarily solve their problems there and then.”

Local resident Tammii Suprano is one of the new crisis supporters. The mum of three is volunteering as a way of doing something to help her community that also supports her new career as a paramedic. She is going into her third year of Bachelor of Paramedicine at Charles Sturt University. “COVID-19 has affected a lot of people so much, and there are a lot of mental health issues in the community generally,” Ms Suprano said. “I have lots of life experience that I thought I could bring to the role and enjoy helping people,” she said. “The Lifeline training is very in depth, but a simple lesson has been the importance of doing more

“I didn’t appreciate how valuable that can be for someone who is grieving, lonely and can’t see a way forward and doesn’t have someone they can talk to.” “The fact that we are anonymous makes it easier for some people to be open and share their problems and feelings.” Ms Hillis said while crisis supporters are largely volunteers, it costs Lifeline $3,500 to equip, train and support each person. She and others provide extensive training and ongoing supervision and debriefing for crisis supporters Lifeline centres have seen a fall in revenue to operate the 13 11

14 service. Its retail shops and fundraising events were significantly impacted by COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions. People can support the life-saving work of Lifeline Hunter Central Coast by making a donation via lifeline-hunter-centralcoast.raisely.com or lifelinehunter. org.au. “Each call to 13 11 14 costs around $39. So any contribution people can spare will make a difference to someone in the community who is in crisis. “You never know when you or someone you love will need to talk to one of our caring crisis supporters.” The Newcastle centre is one of 40 nationally that are staffed by 4,000 crisis supporters. Lifeline answers a call for help every 30 seconds and expects to respond to more than one million requests for support this year.

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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 by Friday 11 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 to

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choose from. First in best dressed with the choice of vouchers. The vouchers must be claimed by 11 February and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 28 February. Congratulations to the residents of 5 Melbourne Rd Broadmeadow and 12 Dorothy St Hamilton North claimed a prize last month by correctly identifying their letterboxes last month.

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Back to school road safety With kids returning to school this month it’s timely to revisit school road safety. Here are a few things you can do to help keep your children and others safer during drop-off and pick-up times during the school week: • Make sure your children are fastened in the correct child car seat for their age and size and that it is fitted correctly. • Stick to the 40km/h speed limit in a school zone and look out for children who may be about. • Watch for flashing lights on buses. They let you know that there may be children crossing or about to cross the road. A 40km/h limit applies when school bus lights flash. • Always give way to pedestrians particularly when entering and leaving driveways. • Always park and turn legally around schools. Manoeuvres such as U-turns and three-point turns are dangerous during busy school drop-off and pick-up times. • Drop your children off and pick them up on the school side of the road in your school’s designated drop-off and pick-up area. Never call out to them from across the road – they may run to you without checking for traffic. • It’s safest for children to get out of the car through the Safety Door, away from passing traffic. This is the rear footpath side door of the car.

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The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Sue Wilson of New Lambton. Sue has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy. Last month’s mystery photo was the recently refurbished Lambton Branch Library building. This month’s quiz questions are below. You’ll find the answers within the pages of this issue, except of course the mystery photo. Question 1 How long has the Newcastle Permanent Building Society Primary School Maths Competition been running? Question 2 How many calls for support did Lifeline receive nationally on New Years Day? Question 3 What speed limit applies when a school bus displays flashing lights? Question 4 Where is the Newcastle Blood Donor Centre located? Question 5 At which major local intersection would you find the

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Have your say on 2040 plan Newcastle will be a liveable, sustainable and inclusive global city in 2040 under an ambitious long-term vision developed with the community. City of Newcastle engaged with more than 5000 people during the development of the draft Community Strategic Plan, Newcastle 2040. Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it was important to understand the community’s vision for the future of Newcastle and how it relates to the policies and projects being delivered during the next decade and beyond. “Newcastle 2040 has been developed in consultation with the community over a period of 12 months and represents the collaboration of thousands of interactions, including face-to-face conversations, workshops, surveys, online feedback, advisory

committees and stakeholder engagement,” Cr Nelmes said. “Through this extensive community consultation, we have developed four key themes that reflect the aspirations and values of our community, which are underpinned by our commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. “The priorities and objectives contained within this plan will enable us to celebrate our unique city, protect our natural assets, optimise opportunities, build resilience, champion inclusion and encourage innovation and creativity. “The next decade is set to be an exciting and rewarding time for all of us as Newcastle grows from a great regional city to an emerging global city. “Newcastle 2040 represents the highest level of strategic planning carried out by Local Government.

It will guide our project delivery plans and annual budgets over the next decade and beyond as we work together to help make Newcastle a better place to live, work and enjoy.” The draft plan’s four key themes are: Liveable Newcastle, Sustainable Newcastle, Creative Newcastle and Achieving Together – each of which have been expanded to include a range of priorities and objectives. Cr Nelmes said the delivery of Newcastle 2040 will require shared decision-making and collaborative partnerships with government agencies, non-government organisations, business and the local community. The community are being invited to provide feedback on the draft plan until 15 February. Visit www. newcastle.nsw.gov.au/yoursay to comment on the draft plan.

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Local students shine in maths comp New Lambton Public School students Elvis Blyth and Shankhin Kesarwani took out District Awards in the latest Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition. The Year 6 students were presented with their awards at Newcastle Permanent’s New Lambton branch manager Kathryn Tasevski late last year. They were two of 19 Hunter students to receive awards. Three of the top seven students (first, second and third in both Year 6 and Year 5) hailed from the Hunter. Charlie Drew of year 6 at Newcastle East Public School, was first place winner. Henry Riddell from Newcastle Grammar and Amelia McCallum from Jewells Primary School came equal third out of all Year 5 students. For the first time in its 41 year history, in response to COVID-19,

the exam was held online. Students test their numeracy and problem-solving skills without help from calculators, rulers or other mathematical instruments. First place winners received a $250 Newcastle Permanent account, second place winners $150, and third place $100. District Award winners received $50. CEO Bernadette Inglis congratulated all entrants for challenging themselves and embracing the importance of mathematics in daily life. “Numeracy skills are so important well beyond school, in fact, they’re life skills,” Ms Inglis said. “Numeracy plays a part in getting a job, in managing your household budget and in buying your first home, not to mention the daily problems we solve using maths,”

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she said. “Seeing our Hunter-based students perform at such a high level demonstrates the high number of talented young people we have within our younger generations. Despite the challenges that lockdowns, restrictions and home schooling presented families, the resilience of our young people shone through.” The Newcastle Permanent Primary School Mathematics Competition is the largest and longest running competition of its kind in Australia. 10,000 Year 5 and 6 students from 250 Central Coast, Hunter, mid North Coast, North Coast, Northern Rivers, Central West, and New England North West primary schools sat the 2021 exam. More than half a million students have participated since it started in 1981.

Facing page: New Lambton Public School Year 6 students Shankhin Kesarwani (top) and Elvis Blyth (below) receive their Newcastle Permanent Maths Competition awards from New Lambton branch manager Kathryn Tasevski

Are you smarter than a primary school kid? Check your knowledge against questions from this year’s Maths Competition exam. Remember, no calculators, rulers or other instruments. Q. One ice-cream costs $4.50. How much for 7 icecreams? (A) $32.50 (B) $31.50 (C) $29.05 (D) $28.00 Q. After spending 0.6 of her money, Melissa has $20 left. How much has she spent? (A) $8 (B) $12 (C) $30 (D) $50 Q. A triangle has one angle of 60°. We know that one of the other angles is 4 times the size of the third angle. The triangle is: (A) obtuse angled (B) equilateral (C) isosceles (D) right angled www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

BE A JAFFA IN 2022! REGISTRATION INFORMATION FOR LAMBTON JAFFAS JUNIOR FC

Persons wishing to play football (soccer) in 2022 can register online commencing from Friday 7th January. We are a community-based Club catering for players of all age groups from Over 35’s, Ladies, All Age and players 5 to 18 years of age. HOW TO REGISTER:

1. Log into Services NSW to apply for the Active Kids Voucher (per child) for 5-18 years of age.

2. Once you have a voucher number follow the link to register with Lambton Jaffas Junior Soccer Club and follow the prompts at www.playfootball.com.au

For further enquiries please email lambtonjaffasjuniors@gmail.com, contact Registrar Aaron on 0407 270 082 or Secretary Jenny 0402 734 604 To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2022 > Page 11

Here to

HELP with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape

Covid confusion

Dear Here to Help, I tested positive for covid a few days ago and received a letter from the NSW government, which says “this notice confirms that you were required to self-isolate from 11-01-2022 to 19-01-2022… You may leave isolation if you do not have a sore throat, runny nose, cough for shortness of breath…” I am confused and rang my doctor and tried to ring the NSW government, but nobody seems able to help me. My questions are: • Is the 19th January my last day of isolation, or first day of not needing to self-isolate? • What if I have a regular cough or shortness of breath from asthma or another health condition? I just wish the government would communicate clearly! It’s stressful enough at this time already! Thank you for your query. There have been numerous complaints about the clarity of covid communications from Australian governments, including different documents or web pages saying different things. Let’s see if we can work through your letter and the associated Health Order.

The Health Order states: medically cleared, in relation to a diagnosed person, means— (a) the diagnosed person has self-isolated for 7 days from the day the person undertook the test that resulted in the person becoming a diagnosed person… The Order does not state whether the date you tested counts as day 0 or day 1, so let’s look at the NSW government’s website. The NSW government website at https://www.health. nsw.gov.au/Infectious/factsheets/Pages/advice-forconfirmed.aspx states: You must self-isolate for 7 days from the day you were tested. You can only leave self-isolation after 7 days if you do not have a sore throat, runny nose, cough or shortness of breath... For example, if you were tested at 10am on Tuesday, you can leave isolation at 10am on the following Tuesday if you do not have any of these symptoms. You do not need to test before leaving self-isolation in NSW. From this example, it seems that the eighth day is the final date provided in the letter (19th Jan) and the day you can leave self-isolation. There does not seem to be any information or guidance on what to do if you have a chronic condition, such as asthma or allergies, that means you have one of the listed symptoms often. It seems that it could be interpreted that you might be permanently in isolation! That said, you are allowed to leave the place you are self-isolating “for the purposes of obtaining medical care…” (cl 5(a)(i)) and/or have someone enter the place where you are self-isolating “for medical or emergency purposes” (cl 5(b)(ii)). So it seems that if you have had covid and suffer the listed symptoms as a result of another health condition, obtaining a negative test and/or visiting your doctor or hospital might be the best way to exit self-isolation.

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Letter to

Tim Crakanthorp MP

Beauty on display It’s been a year of sorrow and loss for all. We miss Mr Peacock’s call. His magnificent colours displayed God’s perfect creation. But a new year is starting, hope for all is what were asking. A new call has come to our door, a bird, pretty but not so beautifully arrogant. A pea-hen I think she’s called. Not all has been taken away, if we can be thankful in every way seeing beauty displayed.

A New Lambton resident

State Member for Newcastle

“Fighting

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Office: 414 Hunter Street, Newcastle Phone: 4926 1126 Email: newcastle@parliament.nsw.gov.au Authorised by Tim Crakanthorp MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

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Book Review sponsored by Q’s Books

Pelican Blood by Cris Freddi

Bird-watching, romance and murder. Pelican Blood is one of the most absurd novels I have ever read and it left me different. Twitching- the quaint pastime of collecting sightings of birds both common and unbelievably rare- doesn’t seem an appropriate backdrop or drive for a story that abounds with nihilism and spiralling selfdestruction but Cris Freddi not only weaves these factors together- he cements them with a protagonist so relentlessly dour and fatalistic that the act of birdwatching becomes a meandering stroll toward that final breath. The language is dark, foul, down to earth and evocative. The situations both mundane and wildly illogical. Our unnamed protagonist and his two best friends; beautiful, irreverent Stevie Red Bus and passionate, abrasive Bish, flavour the story with their stodgy yet vibrant, melancholic ways and the relationships between them are painted with such broad strokes that you don’t realise you know them until they surprise you. Threads of rekindled romance, art, culture, bird watching and cleaning supplies are underlined by vigilante-style murders of egg-collectors to create a novel that makes you chuckle as it slugs you in the gut. Review by Ceris Ball Is there a book you would like to review? Please get in touch with us at Q’s Books email: info@qsbooks. com.au com .au To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

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THAT WAS THEN This is now

with Lachlan Wetherall

Lambton Central collieries

motorists by showing the location of suburban collieries. In spite of the utter dominance of coal mining, suburban development has progressively removed almost every trace of old collieries. But some artefacts survived if they were sufficiently hidden away. I recently discovered in the heart of Blackbutt Reserve a rusting iron chimney. This was a furnace air shaft of the Lambton Central colliery, who mined a seam of coal in the middle of Blackbutt from 1936 to 1942. Around 1945 they commenced mining a different seam in the same area, naming the workings Lambton Central No. 2. Coal extracted from this seam was hauled in trucks to the old Lambton colliery railway (near present day Lewis Oval) to be loaded into rail wagons. In 1947 coal from Lambton Central was being sent to Zara St power station in Newcastle East.

Lambton Central No. 3 (Rankin Park) and Lambton Central No. 4 (Cardiff) commenced around 1951, and somewhat Seven years ago, in my first article for The Local, I remarked paradoxically Lambton Central No. 1 was the last of the on how little evidence of coal mining remains in our town. company’s workings to be opened, in 1953 at Kotara. The gulf between the prevalence of mining and the scarcity This site is now the Carnley Ave picnic area of Blackbutt of surviving artefacts continues to surprise me. Reserve. The pre-eminence of mining is starkly seen in historical While much used and loved facilities in Blackbutt have land title records. For example, looking at the first purchaser replaced the mines, hidden parts of the Reserve still of blocks of land in the township of Lambton we find a preserve a few relics of our coal mining history. staggering 67% are listed as miners. There is a cavernous You can view these photos and more details at gap to the second most common occupations, carpenters lachlanwetherall.com and storekeepers at just 3% each. Mines were everywhere in Newcastle. Even into the 1950s road maps orientated

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Above: a 1950s roadmap showing suburban collieries, including Lambton Central No.2 in Blackbutt Reserve, and the coal rail line in Lambton. Right: an iron chimney from a furnace air shaft at Lambton Central Colliery (1936-42), hidden in the bush of Blackbutt Reserve

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PHARMACY

Matters

person has any life‑threatening conditions and what first aid is needed. Danger – Response – Send for HELP – Airways – Breathing -- CPR – Defibrillation If you are not familiar with DRSABCD Action Plan please book into a First Aid course ASAP.

Minor cuts and grazes

• Clean the wound well with clean water or saline solution. of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, • Apply a sterile dressing; put pressure on the wound Hamilton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether to stop bleeding and raise the area. • A pharmacist can advise on dressings. Seek medical help if: • a cut is longer than 1 cm – it may need stitches First aid is one of the most important skills anyone • the wound is very dirty can learn. It may save a life of a family member, • something is trapped in the wound friend or another Community member and/or prevent • there is severe bleeding. lasting injury. Below I will outline some basic first aid advice for a few common events, however, I cannot • Remove the person from danger. emphasise strongly enough the need to learn more • Cool burnt area with cool running water for 20 about first aid by enrolling in a first aid course with a minutes. If cool running water is not available, a registered training organisation. hydrogel may be used.

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First aid

Burns and scalds

DRSABCD Action Plan

• Remove clothing and jewellery from burnt area, St John Ambulance recommends using the unless stuck to the burn. • Prevent infection by covering wound with a loose DRSABCD Action Plan to help decide if an injured and light non‑stick dressing, preferably clean, dry, lint‑free (non-fluffy) material e.g. plastic cling film. • A pharmacist can advise on dressings. Do not: • apply fat, or any lotions, ointments or oily dressings • apply ice • use towels, cotton wool or blankets directly on a burn • cool large burn wounds for prolonged periods of time as it can cause the development of hypothermia, especially in elderly or young children. Hydrogel, exposed to air and left in place for long periods, can Servicing New Lambton, be associated with hypothermia Lambton and surrounding suburbs… • remove anything stuck to a burn ➤ Plumbing ➤ Drainage • touch burnt areas or burst any blisters. ➤ Gas Fitting ➤ Blocked Drains ➤ CCTV pipe inspections • Follow DRSABCD Action Plan. ➤ Friendly and Reliable Service • Phone 000 for an ambulance (and a fire brigade if 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE, atmosphere is filled with gas or smoke). ALL WORK GUARANTEED • Listen to the casualty – provide reassurance but not advice. CALL FOR A FREE COMPETITIVE QUOTE • Try to find out the type, amount and time of Phone Jon on poisoning. • Phone the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26. Do not induce vomiting or give any food or drink.

Your Local Plumber

Poisoning

0400 603 545

Page 18 > The Local > February 2022

www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

VET Chat by Dr Fiona Wallace of New Lambton Veterinary Clinic

Cats who don’t eat

Cats stop eating for a number of different reasons but it is not a widely recognised that inappetence in cats can be quite serious. Cats are likely to develop a liver condition called hepatic lididosis if they lose weight quickly. This condition is reversible if it has not progressed too far. Most cats who develop lipidosis are middle aged and at some time in their life they have been overweight. Usually they have lost over a kilogram, they have stopped being interested in food, and maybe they are vomiting or have diarrhoea. Owners are sometimes unaware and may be happy that they are trimming down, but in fact they may be quite sick and developing liver disease. Why do we see hepatic lipidosis commonly in cats but not in other species? The answer lies in the way cats have evolved, which was as predators of small birds and

rodents, eating multiple small meals through the day. Their physiology is geared towards a completely carnivorous diet and they are designed to live lean and mean and never have the opportunity to develop extensive fat stores. This has all changed now cats have become domesticated. Modern housecats have every opportunity to become overweight and although this is not too dangerous on a day to day basis, if they get sick or lost and stop eating, it can be a big problem. First, their fat stores mobilize. Normally, in starvation, fat is moved from the body’s storage depots to the liver for processing into lipoproteins but cat’s livers were never intended to handle huge amounts of mobilized fat. Their livers become infiltrated with fat. Another complication is that cats have a very high dietary protein requirement; protein malnutrition develops very fast. Treatment of hepatitis lipidosis is based on what we call aggressive nutritional support. It is very difficult (and not advisable) to force a cat to eat if he doesn’t want to, so commonly we stitch an oesophageal feeding tube into place and feed high protein liquid food directly to the stomach. This sounds alarming but it is tolerated quite well by most cats and feeding can be done at home. The tube stays in place for approximately a fortnight and is then removed without complication. Almost all cats who are treated in this way survive but would have died without treatment. Obviously it is important to work out the reason for why your cat stopped eating in the first place, and treat this as well. Common reasons for cats stopping eating are pancreatitis, IBD, cancer, or behavioural problems (eg a new cat in the house).

NEW LAMBTON VETERINARY CLINIC

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Happy new year all our fur to ry friends! 126 Lambton Rd, Broadmeadow • 4952 8809 • www.newlambtonvets.com.au Enter from Perth Rd (rear of Rovert Lighting) • Follow us on

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2022 > Page 19

PARENTING

Matters with Mel Burgess of Love Parenting

Alongside you in ‘22

Weirdly there isn’t any stigma attached to reaching out and attending prenatal birth classes or the Child and Family Health Clinic when our kids are tiny. Yet, once they hit around 2-3 years of age many parents speak of having a sense of shame about needing to link in for support to better understand their child’s behaviour and options for supporting them. Which is really crappy timing. That is when they are developmentally wired to start checking (often with great gusto) where boundaries sit and whether they can count on us to meet their needs. It is when they most benefit from having us alongside them with capacity

Page 20 > The Local > February 2022

and competence for empathy, realistic expectation, coregulation and limit-holding. All really hard in the throes of all else that life inevitably deals us. The goalposts keep moving. They age-up. Each sibling is their own unique self. We carry massive mental load trying to ‘successfully’ raise them. There are often tricky co-parent differences. Or one child we find harder to connect with. Extended family angst often also jumps in there too. It’s no wonder we get so tired, overwhelmed and yellyyelly. My focus this year is to powerfully put my expertise alongside yours and that of other parents. A geared-up community keen to take parenting through 2022 by the horns. If you are a mum with a child aged 3-8, and have an hour a week, and $50 a month to give to enjoying being a parent more than you have been, I have decade and a half of working in the parenting space and I am just dying to share a key learning each fortnight that I’ll support you to implement. Send me an email hello@loveparenting.com.au and I’ll shoot you across more info and the process to sign up. Be sure to mention you are a reader of The Local.

www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

MIND

Matters by Dr Stuart Edser

Principal Psychologist at Newcastle Psychology & Health

Disappointment

Now that we are in the third year of Covid-19 interrupting our lives, I want to say a few things about disappointment. Why? Because all of us, to a greater or lesser degree, has been left disappointed at some point during this pandemic. In psychology, disappointment theory talks about disappointment being a combination of surprise and sorrow, ie disappointment occurs when people experience unpleasant surprises or when outcomes do not meet expectations. In fact, three factors have been identified as being predictive of disappointment: 1. expectation of a desired outcome, 2. emotional

investment in that outcome and 3. identification with something - an event, a group etc. I could reel off the disappointments that I have experienced over the last two years. I’m sure you could too. We’ve missed cherished gatherings, holidays have been cancelled, plans put on hold or abandoned, even weddings and funerals have been altered. It’s been disappointing. For some, disappointment after disappointment. So, what do we do with disappointment? What do we do when we’ve expected something, we’re invested in it, we identify with it, and it doesn’t come off? There is no perfect solution. It is life. Some things we have a degree of power or control over and some things little to none. We change what we can and learn to accept what we can’t. The emotional response will be disappointment in the latter, but in my experience, the emotion fades in intensity after some time (I am not talking about bereavement here). We tend to process these things mentally and emotionally and then just get on. That’s what we do. We can also consciously remind ourselves that things will change, there will be other days, other times. We look ahead to brighter days and maybe resurrect our ‘special thing’ for those days. In the meantime, we soldier on, continuing to take care of ourselves and our loved ones.

DON’T LET IT STEAL YOUR LIFE • Counselling • Psychotherapy • Hypnotherapy • Education • Expert care for all of life’s challenges, including: depression – relationships – sexual problems – LGBT issues – illness – grief – smoking cessation, including the dedicated NPH Anxiety Clinic

Dr Stuart Edser

PhD. MAPS. FCCOUNP. MIAAN. MASCH.

Counselling Psychologist T: 4952 9777 A: 20 Kendall Street Lambton E: admin@nph.net.au W: nph.net.au Medicare Rebates available through GP

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2022 > Page 21

PHYSIO

Matters with Ben Hutton of Brightside Physio

My big mistake

It started with me. I just followed what everyone else was doing. The first 4 of my 20 year physio career I treated patients with a variety of machines that went ‘bing’ and flashy lights. All the physios I knew did it. It was easy. Patients didn’t complain. It looked like these contraptions were doing something. Machines like ultrasound, TENS, shortwave and even heat lamps. I followed blindly and expected everyone to be right. My mistake was to not challenge the status quo, the old-school thinking and the ‘its-always-been-donethat-way-so-shush’.

On a bright sunny March morning in London, I presented my review of the evidence around using machines in treatment to a group of 20 colleagues. I wasn’t feeling great about it - change is hard and challenging change is harder still. With a slightly knotty gut I stepped up to the plate and in 30 minutes explained why I thought most of the use of machines was complete bunkum. What happened? My goal was a ‘come-to-Jesus’ moment of collective light bulbs for all my colleagues. The outcome was decidedly not, it was more an unanimous yawn, sigh and barely-concealed annoyance. I marked myself a 2/10, ate a whole humble pie and stepped off the soapbox. In hindsight - I think the experience was more about me changing my own thinking and taking responsibility for my mistakes and feeling excited about progressing as a physio. So, I haven’t used machines in the 16 years hence. I only use treatments that work. Hands on therapy, exercise and listening properly. It’s the best way of helping as many people as possible get out of pain and expand their lives. To start the journey of getting out of pain with physio that actually works, book online at brightsidephysio. com.au or call 4062 8862.

BRIGHTSIDE PHYSIO

NO KNEE TO FEAR BOOK ONLINE brightsidephysio.com.au info@brightsidephysio.com.au // 92 Elder St, Lambton NSW

Page 22 > The Local > February 2022

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LAW

Matters by Eddie Matthews Licensed Conveyancer, Newcastle Legal

Always use conveyancer with experience

For the majority of people the property they own or lease is their most valuable asset. It is worth ensuring that the person you engage to act on a sale, purchase or lease is not only economical and efficient but someone who also knows the applicable law intimately, has an eye for detail and can pick tricky contract clauses that may cause you grief down the track. Not all conveyancers are equal in their knowledge and experience or have ready access to legal advice when needed. Best results are achieved for you when your conveyancer communicates effectively with you and provides appropriate advice as needed. Increasingly we are finding that contract terms need to be negotiated with the other party. It is also becoming more common for a bank or building society to not be ready to complete the sale and purchase on the day specified in the contract because of Covid related delays, which can have expensive consequences. Questions and disputes can arise regarding pest and building inspections, stormwater and services connected, easements and covenants registered on title, fences and boundaries, town planning and consent for improvements to the property, home warranty insurance, trees, valuation, state of repair or disrepair, inclusions and exclusions, land tax liability, interest for late completion, possession including potentially before completion and adjustments on the purchase price. All these considerations are capable of becoming thorny issues that require experienced, skilful handling. Quality conveyancing starts with your conveyancer ensuring that you understand the key points of the contract and can make informed choices. If the other side acts in a manner contrary to their contractual obligations, you will benefit if your conveyancer has easy access to legal advice on the steps then available and that are most appropriate in your particular circumstances. To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

Making Legal Easy WHY CHOOSE EDDIE MATHEWS FOR YOUR PROPERTY CONVEYANCING? ➤ Specialist licensed conveyancer ➤ Fixed fee conveyancing for standard residential transactions ➤ Written advice provided on purchases ➤ Ready access to a property lawyer when necessary ➤ Friendly, efficient service.

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 2022 > Page 23

K C A B E M O C R U O MAKE Y E H T N A H T R E G N O STR ! K C A B T SE THE TIME IS RIGHT TO MARKET YOUR BUSINESS TO YOUR LOCAL MARKET…

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Page 24 > The Local > February 2022

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Local Community Group Notices CHILDREN & FAMILIES HOME-START FAMILY SERVICES Home-Start is a voluntary service offering support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under five 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/ MAINLY MUSIC How much fun can you have? Mainly Music is a fun music group for 0-5 year olds and their parents or primary care givers to enjoy together. Throughout the session, children develop gross and fine motor skills, language, imagination, mathematical and pre-reading skills as well as socialise with others. Each Mainly Music is associated with and is run by volunteers from a local church. $5 a family. Starting back first Wednesday in February. Mainly Music is held at New Lambton Church Hall, cnr Oxford and Cromwell Streets, every Wednesday from 9:30am to 12:00pm. For information on how to join in, contact Beck Bishop on 0416 149 633. NEWCASTLE & HUNTER TOY LIBRARY Newcastle and Hunter Toy Library is calling all ‘kids at heart’ to become regular volunteers to assist with the running of the Toy Library sessions on Saturday mornings. The Toy Library is a terrific service based at New Lambton Library and run entirely by volunteers. We are also seeking new members to join our committee. Contact newcastletoylibrary@gmail. com for more information about joining our enthusiastic team. For more information search @newcastleandhuntertoylibrary on Facebook.

CHILDREN & FAMILIES FAMILY SUPPORT NEWCASTLE MEN’S PROJECT The Men’s Project is a free service for fathers who want to enrich their relationships with their children. We have two male workers who can assist and support fathers who have children aged between 0-18 years and may be experiencing some difficulties with parenting. These difficulties may include adjusting to co-parenting after separation. We can provide individual family support to fathers and we also offer a variety of group programs. For more information about the services we offer to fathers please call 0249263577 or go to: www.nfss.org.au

COMMUNITY GROUPS NEIGHBOUR AID VOLUNTEERS Hunter Multicultural Communities is seeking volunteers to assist seniors with transport to medical appointments or shopping. If you would like to help call Gayle Grayson on 0425 090 670.

NEWCASTLE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Are you interested in knowing more about your family history or history in general? The NFHS is a vibrant, active group which runs courses, events, workshops & excursions as well as offering expert assistance with researching your family history. Visit our website www.nfhs.org. au or drop in to the Mechanics’ Institute at 68 Elder Street, Lambton, which is open Saturdays from 10am until 3pm & Thursdays 1-3pm. You will be made very welcome.

Readers are encouraged to check with organisers that events/meetings are proceeding as advertised here. Public Health Orders may force events to be postponed or cancelled. To have a free community notice published in next month’s issue of The Local email your details to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2022 > Page 25

Local Community Group Notices COMMUNITY GROUPS NEWCASTLE MEN’S SHED Newcastle Men’s Shed is now open at 99 Beaumont Street Hamilton, next door to Westpac. The shop front is open weekdays 9am to 2pm. New members are welcome. For more information phone 0498 365 207 or email newcastleshed@gmail.com

JESMOND LlONS CLUB Needs new members to assist in fund raising and BBQ’s for the many community projects that remain in constant need, like: food for the poor and homeless * school kids breakfasts help maintain our famous Hunter Wetlands bird sanctuary at Shortland, drug awareness * research into diabetes and kids cancer help those with loss of hearing, vision or mobility, farmers’ stock & victims of flood, storm and fire. All funds are spent in Lions communities - o wages or commissions! Phone Alan on 0412 414751 for details. Come and meet us at our self-catered dinner meeting and see if we can help one another. Or email: jesmondlions@gmail.com and we’ll contact you.

LAMBTON RESIDENTS GROUP All 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 the local area. Meetings are held at 5.30pm on the 2nd Monday of each month. No RSVP needed. For more information email: lambtonresidents@gmail. com or call Kate on 0438 247 684.

HOBBIES & INTERESTS GREEN EARTH PEERS Green Earth peers aims to give people with disability a voice and have their say about environmental issues and climate change. People with disability deserve to be at the table when it comes to decisions about the environment. This group aims to educate ourselves on environment issues and engage in environmental projects and actions. This is a peer group, meaning it is run for and by people with a disability. We aim to break down the barriers of access when it comes to environmental action and discussion as well as build a peer movement! We meet on the first Monday of every month, 2-3pm via Zoom. Anyone who identifies as having a disability and is interested in the environment and its protection is welcome to join. If you are interested or know someone who is please contact leigh@cdah.org. au or sinead@cdah.org.au or by mobile on 0427 905 702.

HUNTER REGION FIELD NATURALISTS & NATURE JOURNALING CLUB A local club started in Lambton almost two years ago offers free outdoor nature journaling sessions to anyone interested in trying their hand at drawing and painting whilst exploring nature. The club meet outdoors on the 4th Saturday of each month and offer online sessions on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Find out more on Instagram and Facebook: @naturejournalclub. hunterregion

www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Community Group Notices HOBBIES & INTERESTS NEWCASTLE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY Are you interested in knowing more about your family history or history in general? The NFHS is a vibrant, active group which runs courses, events, workshops & excursions as well as offering expert assistance with researching your family history. Visit our website www.nfhs.org. au or drop in to the Mechanics’ Institute at 68 Elder Street, Lambton, which is open Saturdays from 10am until 3pm & Thursdays 1-3pm. You will be made very welcome.

SENIORS GROUPS WARATAH COMBINED PROBUS CLUB This is an invitation to join Waratah Combined Probus Club, where fun, friendship and fellowship are important. For further information please phone Robert Budden president on 4967 2290 LADIES PROBUS CLUB OF NEW LAMBTON Are you recently retired or semi-retired and looking for a friendly group of ladies to share activities and social outings with? Our Club has vacancies for new members. Our monthly activities include active and interesting Walks, Book Club, Movies/Theatre/Shows, Day Trips, Birthday Lunches and a monthly meeting with Guest Speaker on the fourth Monday at Central Charlestown Leagues Club. If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of please contact Eileen at eileencampbell46@yahoo.com. au or on 0428 991 184.

SENIORS GROUPS LAMBTON SENIORS GROUP Interested in playing cards? Canasta is a great social game and is played every Thursday from 9.00 am to 12.30 pm at 18 Morehead St, Lambton. You’ll be most welcome and we’ll happily teach you, either from scratch or just refresh your knowledge. Free off street parking. Phone Nola 4952 3685 or Des 4955 5052.

BEL AIR VIEW CLUB Bel Air View Club meets on the third Monday of each month at South Leagues Club 46 Llewellyn St Merewether at 10.30 am. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed to join us for friendship and interesting guest speakers and to help us support the Smith Family’s Learning for Life program helping young Australians to succeed at school. For further information please phone Gillian on 4963 5655.

SPORTS CLUBS NEWCASTLE DIGGERS SWIMMING CLUB Newcastle Diggers Swimming Club is a recreational swimming club meeting at Lambton Pool from 8am to 10am every Sunday from September to April each year. New swimmers of all ages and all abilities are welcome. We are a social club promoting fun and fitness. For further information contact our club secretary Helen 0n 0439 559 919 or see our Facebook page @newcastlediggersswimmingclub

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2022 > Page 27

Page 28 > The Local > February 2022

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Local Trades and Service Directory

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To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

Phone Jon on

0400 603 545

(02) 4951 1570 3/13 Carbine Cl, Maryland www.kevspoolshop.com.au

The Local > February 2022 > Page 29

Local Classifieds... FOR SALE

GOLF BAG ‘Revolver’ golf bag in excellent condition, makes clubs easy to reach. Locked in place at top and bottom. Top spins for easy club selection $200 Ph 0415 675 171 HIGH CHAIR Ingenuity Trio 3-in-1 deluxe high chair, in excellent condition $50. Ph 0412 195 614 HONEY Local honey 100% pure unprocessed, no heating or sugar syrup, raw and natural from our backyard hives. pick up New Lambton. $13 per kg. Ph 0423 050 778 LADDER Bailey 3 leg extension ladder, as new condition $120 o.n.o. Ph 0424 224 098

FOR SALE

LP RECORDS Collection of 33, 45 and 78 records. Music from the 60s, 70s etc. Large selection including Elvis. Come and have a look to make your selection. Ph 4952 9817 PLAYSTATION PS2 console with 2 controllers, memory card, attachments, plus 20 odd games. $250 neg. Ph 0424 224 098 TABLE Table wooden round pedestal, very solid, 4 wooden padded chairs $50. Ph 0481 714 690 TOOLS ETC. Tools, garden tools, toolboxes, rod and reel combos, fishing gear and various items. Prices start from $5 Ph 0421 003 693 LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Are free and they work!

Solution to crossword on page 28

E N

H A

Page 30 > The Local > February 2022

Z F

O A T

H E

Z H

D S

T U

A A

G H

L O

NOTICES

ANIMAL TRANSPORT Fetch Pet Transportation and Dog Walking will take small and medium size animals to vets, groomers, kennels etc and home again. Also dog walking. Ph 0479 042 656 COMPANION WANTED Mature lady (prefer 60+) to be a companion one day per week to a 60+ female. Please list hobbies. $127.50 /day. Contact by email to: rockorchid@gmail.com EDITING & WRITING INSTRUCTION Editing services and academic writing instruction for students of BA, & Post-Graduate Studies, including PhD level, in a wide variety of disciplines. Tuition via zoom & Google docs. Fees from $60 per hour. Contact Chris by email chrisausspeak@gmail.com or text to 0416 624 710 IELTS TUTORING Experienced university lecturer. Lessons via zoom & Google docs. Suitable for persons applying for Permanent Residency Visa and/or university applications. Offering writing instruction for all academic levels. From $60 per hour. Contact Chris by email chrisausspeak@ gmail.com or text 0416 624 710 JAZZ YOUR GARDEN GARDEN CARE & WEEDING We specialise in garden, path and driveway weeding, garden mulching and plantings, general garden tidying. General liability insurance to $10M. Call or text Nathan for a Ph 0448 173 084 quick quote LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Are free and they work! MATHS TUTORING Get a head start before the new school year begins again. Face-to-face Maths lessons provided from home. $60 per session. Contact Ian by Email: MindPathtutoring@gmail.com www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Classifieds... NOTICES

NOTICES

PEST CONTROL Guaranteed. Average home $150, units and town houses $80, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Hunter Valley areas. German Cockroaches a specialty. Ph 0418 637 990

PLANT SALES Australian Plants Newcastle Branch. We are back! Every Thursday morning only, 8.30 - 11am at Shortland Wetlands Centre. All plants in tubes $4 each.

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS They’re free and they work. We reach 11,000+ letterboxes each and every month. Whether you’ve got something to sell or something to tell send it to us by email to: admin@hunterlocal. com.au or post to PO Box 130 Lambton 2299 by 15th of month.

WEDDING & FUNCTIONS ENTERTAINMENT Jake Jon King is a local Established solo musician who is well suited for weddings, pub gigs as well as any outdoor events. He knows many hit songs from the past 70 years plus many traditional wedding songs. Email jakejonking@gmail.com or Ph 0410 308 523 LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Are free and they work! Send us yours by 15th of the month.

Practise self discipline and enjoy its many perks! Join us at

Gentle Flow Yoga

classes, inviting weekly self care and relaxation. Prioritise time out to enhance wellbeing, connection & contentment. Welcome seniors and beginners of all ages. Try it out yourself and feel the benefits. Various class options available, including chair class. Commence with others starting out in the new beginners class commencing soon! Inquiries & bookings: Michelle Pirie Dip. Yoga Teaching IYTA

0400 790 479

Something to sell or to tell? Try these FREE Local Community Classifieds. They work! Name _____________________________ Address ________________________________ ____________________________________________ Phone ________________________ Email______________________________________________________________________

Write the wording of your advertisement below. (Max. 25 words please) Text: _______________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Classification (eg. 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

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2022 > Page 31

February COVID update: hard to procure. We understand that supply should get better and better during February.

Wow! Locals, isn’t there a lot of information and updates? Even as I write this in mid-January, this information could be superceded, so please forgive me if anything below no longer applies. It’s no surprise our two biggest requests in recent weeks have been for Rapid Antigen Tests, nicknamed ‘RATs’, and Covid vaccinations. February will bring us some significant new opportunities for both: RATs: from February to April the Government is offering FREE RATs to people who qualify. Who qualifies, you ask? Concession card holders (Pension, Healthcare and Low-income). These often have a card number like 123 456 789V, nine digits followed by one letter. Not a general Seniors Card, and DVA card holder (Dept of Veteran Affairs) HOW MANY RATS DO YOU GET? Up to five tests per month, to a maximum of 10 tests across the three months. WHERE DO YOU GET THEM? They are only available from pharmacies. Please be patient. All pharmacies are trying to locate stock. At the time of writing, RATs are very

COVID VACCINATION – BOOSTERS From February, you can have your 3rd (aka ‘Booster’) vaccination any time three months after your 2nd Covid vaccination. So if you had your 2nd vaccination in October last year, please book online to get your extra vaccination. Book at www.piggottspharmacy.com.au/covid-bookings as we are unable to take bookings over the phone. Please note: “Boosters” are the same as the regular Covid Vaccination. You have a choice of Pfizer or Moderna. Both are great choices, so don’t feel like you are making the wrong choice for you. No need to clarify you want a Booster when booking online as pharmacist will know and check which dose you need. PAEDIATRIC VACCINATIONS Children 5-11 years old now qualify for a Covid Vaccination. At time of writing, we are NOT vaccinating this age group. I would recommend just walking into the Belmont Vaccination Hub or finding another pharmacy/clinic that is offering this service. Yours in health,

Anthony Piggott

To keep healthy and safe in 2022, PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY BLACKBUTT 58 Orchardtown Rd, New Lambton Phone: 4957 2474

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

PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY MEREWETHER 400 Glebe Road, Merewether Phone: 4969 1978

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

Page 32 > The Local > February 2022

♥ www.piggottspharmacy.com.au ♥