The Local - July 2020 by The Local - a community newspaper for suburbs in Newcastle (NSW)

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Issue No 75• A community newspaper for Newcastle’s suburbs • July 2020

Help decide new dog park A second dedicated fenced off-leash dog area is a step closer to reality with City of Newcastle inviting the community to have their say on the next potential site. Residents and community groups can provide feedback on dedicated offleash spaces in Lambton, with areas at Lambton Park and Armstrong Park flagged as potential locations. Community feedback received on the Dogs in Open Space Plan showed high demand around the suburb. Council is also exploring opportunities to improve dog infrastructure in Islington, Adamstown and Maryland. Council has identified the need for additional fenced dog parks across the city under the City’s Dogs in Open Space Plan. Consultation has opened for site selection of the next park and if a suitable site

(L to R) Publisher of The Local Mark Brooker with Wesley, deputy lord mayor Declan Clausen with his dog Toby, and Mary Webster from Lambton Residents Group with Jem and Scout at Lambton Park is determined, a more detailed dog Declan Clausen said City of park design will be available for Newcastle was committed to community feedback. providing open spaces where the Deputy lord mayor, Councillor city’s 45,000 (continued on page 3)

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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

Advertising bookings for August will issue close on Wednesday 15 July The Local is lovingly produced then carefully hand delivered each and every month to more than 10,000 residential letterboxes and businesses in Lambton, North Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, Broadmeadow, Hamilton North and Jesmond. You can find back issues of previous editions and check out the latest community news and information at: www.issuu.com/hunterlocal 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 only after you’ve read it!

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Page 2 > The Local > July 2020

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

When online is off

I recently contacted some local website designers to get some ideas and costs on improving The Local’s digital offering. (Over the years our website has been an afterthought at best and completely ignored at worst. It’s high time that changed. But that’s not the topic of this article.) The topic is an observation that no amount of fancy web enquiry software replaces the human touch of getting a swift response. Seeing as I was looking to enhance what The Local does online I thought it would be best to enquire online. I found three firms that are located within a suburb or two of here, checked out their websites, the work they had done for others, the testimonials etc. Then, as prompted, I filled out their web enquiry forms. My thinking was “These people live and breathe websites. Filling out their enquiry form will be the best way to get in touch”. I invited each of them to get in touch by phone or email if they had any questions. Of the three firms I contacted, one called me within an hour. I chatted with their sales consultant for a good half hour, filling in the gaps not answered by my web enquiry. He gave me some ideas, shared his obvious experience with me and walked me through the process involved. 24 hours later a thorough and detailed quotation for the work we had discussed appeared in my inbox. What about the other two firms? I’ve heard nothing. Not even the ubiquitous automated message along the lines of ‘Thanks for your enquiry. We’re busy right now and will get back to you as soon as we can’. It’s one thing to have a slick online enquiry form which asks the pertinent questions, which filters the sales opportunities and which perhaps even prioritises the follow up. It’s another thing entirely for a human to pick up the phone in response to that enquiry and make the sale.

Above: the options for a fenced off-leash dog exercise area in Lambton include Armstrong Park behind Lambton Public School and the south western corner of Lambton Park. Go to newcastle.nsw.gov.au/YourSay by 6 August to share your thoughts. (continued from front page) dogs, large and small, could safely run free. “We know that Novocastrians are passionate about their dogs and having dedicated spaces for their canine companions to exercise and socialise safely with other dogs is important to them,” Cr Clausen said. “A Council survey found 60% of people want more fenced, offleash dog areas in Newcastle and provided valuable insights on

desired features such as shade, seating, signage and designated areas for small and large dogs. “This is reflected in the overwhelming success and popularity of the City’s first fenced, off-leash dog park at Acacia Avenue, North Lambton, which opened last October and is enjoyed by countless two and fourlegged friends on any given day. “City of Newcastle will incorporate the lessons learned from the success of the Acacia Avenue dog

park along with the community’s feedback to continue to deliver on the outcomes of the Dogs in Open Space Plan to provide, improve and manage off-leash dog areas over the next decade.” Community views are welcome to help select the location of our next fenced off-leash dog area and can be made via newcastle.nsw.gov. au/YourSay until 5pm Thursday 6 August 2020.

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Sports precinct go-slow slammed

Shadow Minister for Sport Lynda Voltz and State Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp have slammed the Berejiklian Government’s go-slow on the development of the Hunter Sports and Entertainment Precinct, with little progress made three years after the precinct was announced. In July 2017 the then-Sports Minister Stuart Ayres unveiled a draft concept plan for the redevelopment of the 63-hectare site which included a multi-purpose area, multi-purpose fields and a consolidated sports facility, calling the area “a precinct of global significance”. Despite repeated calls for the Government to get moving on the project and requests for updates from both the Opposition and the media little information has been provided. With Australia learning in late June that it was successful in its bid for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Club, Ms Voltz said that Newcastle deserves the upgraded facilities to support these international events. “Newcastle is in line to host round matches and a quarter-final, which is fantastic for the entire Hunter region,” she said. “However world-class events need world-class facilities, and with the World Cup coming the Government

Member for Newcastle Tim Crakenthorp MP and Shadow Sports Minister Lynda Voltz at McDonald Jones Stadium needs to get moving. “It will be disappointing if these upgrades are not finished before the Women’s World Cup, which would showcase Newcastle to the world events market and secure badlyneeded jobs for the future.” Member for Newcastle Tim Crakanthorp said that the state’s second largest city deserved premier sports and entertainment facilities. “It has been a staggering three years since the then-Sports Minister waltzed into Newcastle with some

pretty pictures and a draft concept plan for the site, but since then the silence has been deafening,” he said. “There’s no time like the present to move this forward, particularly with the World Cup on its way and large infrastructure projects critical to post-COVID recovery. “It’s not good enough to say ‘we’re working on it’ – show us what you’ve done, because having so little to show for three years of work does not instil much faith.”

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Donate unused computers and sewing machines

Newcastle Men’s Shed has joined in an appeal from their fellow Men’s Shed in Dubbo. They are appealing for members of the community to pass on unused computers and sewing machines. The computers will be wiped clean of all data, if not already done so. The sewing machines will be repaired and or maintained to a usable order. The computers will be sent to the Philippines for use by school children in their homes as their schools are shut down. The sewing machines are used by their parents for making clothes. Please contact Newcastle Men’s Shed by email on newcastleshed@ gmail.com or phone 0421 249 836 to arrange drop off at the Men’s Shed or pick up by Men’s Shed members.

Newcastle Men’s Shed is calling for computers and sewing machine that will be refurbished and donated to families in need in the Philippines

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New off-leash dog park We know the people of Newcastle are passionate about their dogs and want places for their dogs to safely run free.

Since adopting the Dogs in Open Spaces Plan in 2018, City of Newcastle created our first fenced off‑leash dog park at Acacia Avenue and we’d now like to hear your thoughts about a new off‑leash area in Lambton.

Let us know your views by 6 August 2020 Visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/YourSay

The Local > July 2020 > Page 7

The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner Indishe Senanayake of New Lambton. Your prize is on its way. Last month’s mystery photo was the timber footbridge over Lambton Ker-ai at Lambton Park. This month’s quiz questions are below. You’ll find the answers within the pages of this issue, except of course for the mystery photo answer. Question 1 In what year was New Lambton’s first Post Office built? Question 2 Newcastle is set to host round matches and a quarter final of which major sports tournament in 2023? Question 3 Lambton Park and which other open space are being considered as the location of Lambton’s new fenced off-leash area for dogs? Question 4 What is the name of the new restaurant at Alder Park Sports Club? Question 5 Where would you find the building picture at right?

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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 Wednesday 15 July 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 choose from. First in best dressed with choice of vouchers. The vouchers must be claimed by 15 July and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 31 July. Congratulations to the residents of 27 Howe Street who received a $30 voucher last month.

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The Local > July 2020 > Page 11

SMART PEOPLE READ

Each month we hand deliver more than 10,000 copies of The Local to homes and businesses in Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, North Lambton, Hamilton North and parts of Broadmeadow and Jesmond.

Lean in Newy rewards local people for supporting local charities with discounts and incentives at local businesses

You can also pick up a copy from one of the following outlets: Beaumont Street Newsagency Blackbutt Newsagency Corner Lane Espresso, New Lambton Dog Overboard, Adamstown Elders Real Estate, Lambton Jarrett’s Quality Meats, Lambton Lambton Nextra Newsagency New Lambton Vet Clinic, Broadmeadow Piggott’s Pharmacy - Blackbutt, Hamilton, Lambton & Merewether

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It’s time to Lean In Newy

An app that allows everyday people to help local businesses struggling through the COVID-19 pandemic was launched last month. ‘Lean In Newy’ connects organisations that need support, with people wanting to help, while providing added encouragement through $50,000 in vouchers and discounts redeemable at local businesses. Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Novocastrians have been brimming with community spirit in response to COVID-19 and Lean In Newy would direct people’s desire to help where it’s most needed. “COVID-19 has had an unprecedented effect on our community, with older people experiencing increased isolation and businesses suffering a downturn in trade, while other people have found themselves suddenly with more time

on their hands,” the Lord Mayor said. “We have been hearing from many people in the community wanting to help but not knowing how. Lean In Newy is the answer to those asking, ‘How can I help?’. “Charitable organisations like OzHarvest, Dog Rescue Newcastle and Take 3 For The Sea have registered with Lean In Newy to put out a call for volunteering opportunities, and those who put their hand up will be rewarded with incentives like a free coffee at a local café. “There are 24 businesses and 11 not-for-profits signed up, with more in talks, and City of Newcastle is funding the discounts or incentives offered through businesses during the COVID-19 recovery phase. “Lean In Newy is a fantastic way for us to play our part in helping

local businesses and community organisations get back on their feet.” Family Support Newcastle is one of those community organisations. CEO Sue Hellier said the organisation’s role in promoting the wellbeing of children and their families, individuals and communities was more vital than ever in light of recent hardship caused by COVID-19. “Many of our activity groups and face-to-face support services have been impacted by COVID-19, but our mission remains the same. There are still ways the community can assist, like purchasing items and assembling kid’s activity or sanitisation packs at home and dropping them off at our Waratah centre,” Ms Hellier said. You can download ‘Lean In Newy’ from the App Store or Google Play or visit newcastle.nsw.gov.au/ LeaninNewy.

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The Local > July 2020 > Page 13

Gregson Park to get masterplan

The future use for one of Newcastle’s oldest parks, Gregson Park, is set for further community consultation. Situated in the heart of Hamilton, the 131-year-old park will be the subject of a masterplan process, including a community-wide engagement program that will help guide recreation opportunities and identify key uses for its future. City of Newcastle has commenced a site analysis of the former Hamilton Bowling Club, investigating options for it to be converted into a temporary shade structure. Long term, through the development of the masterplan, this area will provide a space for re-adaptive use for community purposes. The masterplan will include design options and concepts captured during the initial consultation phase and will include community priorities for other facilities such as the playground, tennis courts, memorial, gardens and pathways, greenhouse and amenities block. Opportunities for further feedback will be available to the community once detailed plans are developed. Newcastle Councillor Carol Duncan said she was thrilled to see an important parcel of our City’s past being recognised as an integral asset for the future. “I’ve met with many Hamilton residents at Gregson Park and I’ve

been heartened by their passionate calls for the City to reinvigorate this wonderful community asset that dates back to the late 1880s when it was gifted to the community by the then Hamilton Council,” Councillor Duncan said. “Their ideas and input will be used as a catalyst to drive engagement on the park’s future, the importance of which stretches beyond Hamilton and across the City. “We hope that by working together with the community, Gregson Park will remain a wonderful community asset for all of Newcastle for many decades to come.” Chair of Hamilton Business Association Janice Musumeci welcomed the opportunity for the community to participate in developing a masterplan for the park.

“Gregson Park is an integral part of Hamilton and the wider city landscape. It is important that local businesses have the opportunity to assist in creating a space that will meet our community’s needs now and into the future,” she said The aim of the masterplan is to develop a flexible, multi-use space that retains important botanical and heritage elements. This includes the park’s large fig trees and entrance gates that commemorate the first councillors of the historic Hamilton Council. Other upgrades to be considered will be safety improvements – such as increased lighting – and better accessibly such as improved pedestrian and cycleway connectivity.

Volunteers needed!

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What’s NEW at

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alderparkbowlingclub.com.au The Local > July 2020 > Page 15

THAT WAS THEN This is now

with Lachlan Wetherall

New Lambton Post Office

The nature of our postal and communication services has changed radically over the years, but our dependence on them remains undiminished. While the delivery of handwritten letters from family and friends has been largely replaced by online messaging, the delivery to our door of goods we order online is ever increasing.

NEED A JP?

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In June 1869 when New Lambton was but a year old, the residents recognised the importance of communication services, and petitioned the government for a post office for their growing town. Their request was denied, but every year another request was patiently forwarded to Sydney, until finally in 1872 a licence was granted to Mrs Hutchinson to conduct Post Office business from her general store in Regent St, opposite the public school. This arrangement continued until August 1880 when the post office facility closed, and was replaced by a letter receiver installed on the street. Calls for the return of a post office continued over the next decade. In 1892, on land purchased from the New Lambton Coal Company on the corner of Regent and Victoria Streets, a small weatherboard building was erected to serve as New Lambton’s first dedicated Post Office. Mr G H Rowthorn was appointed as postmaster. With the new building came new technology, the introduction of a telegraph service. New Lambton grew and by the mid-1930s it was clear that the old wooden post office was inadequate to meet the needs of the population and ever-changing technology. In 1938 the Postmaster-General’s Department erected a two-storey brick building adjacent to the old building, to house the post office on the ground floor and an automatic telephone exchange on the upper floor. The old weatherboard post office was demolished soon after.

New Lambton Post Office today. The white car is parked in front of where the 1892 post office was located. That original building may have been gone for 80 years, but other buildings on the same block of land now house broadband and mobile communications infrastructure that keep us connected, and today power our online messaging and shopping. You can view these photos and more details at www. lachlanwetherall.com

New Lambton Post and Telegraph Office, erected in 1892. University of Newcastle, Cultural Collections.

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The Local > July 2020 > Page 17

Here to

HELP with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape

A tolling ordeal

Dear Here to Help I recently drove interstate to visit a family member. I rang the tolling company to check I was still registered with them. I am hard of hearing and they speak very quickly in heavy accents and I couldn’t understand them. Finally, they hung up on me. I tried a couple of times, but it was always the same. I don’t know what to do. I can’t afford a fine.

Thank you for your query. Sometimes it can be difficult to communicate with call centre staff, particularly when their performance is measured by how quickly they complete a call. There are a few options available to you. First, google the road and toll, for example “sydney harbour bridge toll” and you will see a list of who can levy the toll. (1) If you download the app, or go online, within 2-3 days of using the toll road, you can usually pay without incurring any additional fees. (2) You will also be able to find a complaints email address on the toll operator’s website. You can send them a quick email saying you are trying to pay your toll, but the call centre staff keep hanging up on you and you shouldn’t have to pay any additional fees. (3) There is a Toll Ombudsman. Ombudsmen have a great success rate. You can find their details here https://tollingombudsman.com.au/. Just email them and tell them what happened. It doesn’t have to be a long email. They have direct contact with someone senior in the tolling company and usually issues are resolved quickly. (4) If you have a smartphone, you can download a toll app which automatically knows when you are on a toll road and charges you the correct amount. That way, you don’t have to worry about dealing with the call centre next time.

The community’s own Rescue Helicopter is there for you 24/7 Please consider making a tax deductible donation to help ensure that nobody ever pays to be assisted. 1800 155 155 | www.rescuehelicopter.com.au

Page 18 > The Local > July 2020

Book Review sponsored by Q’s Books

The Happiness Trap Pocketbook

When I bought two books consisting of the very same concept from Q’s Books, I initially thought I was getting a little carried away with my nerd-ish whims again. ‘The Happiness Trap’ is a book written by Dr Russ Harris, a guru on ‘Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)’, who summarises on his webpage that ACT “gets its name from one of its core messages: accept what is out of your personal control, and commit to action that improves and enriches your life.” I knew this book was more than just another wellness book, with ACT being a common therapy approach in the mental health sector, so I figured I could trust my purchases to be of good substance. I tried reading the original book, determined that I would - that I should – like it, but it was quickly left neglected on my bookshelf. I’m sure it’s full of brilliant insights, but after working from home all day as a slave to my computer, my brain is vigorously short-circuiting and just cannot download any further meaningful information. Thankfully, my nerd-ish whim paid off. The pocketbook version is much more digestible for anyone who is an impatient, busy, or exhausted reader – or those who aren’t particularly fond of reading at all. It is easy to read, filled with cartoon illustrations, and has clear and concise explanations of the key concepts and strategies you’d find in the original book. It’s a timely book for all of us in managing life’s curveballs.

Review by Claire Strickland

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@QSBOOKSHAMILTON The Local > July 2020 > Page 19

LAW

Matters by Chris Hill-Smith of Appleton Law, Lambton

Remote witnessing of documents

The COVID-19 pandemic and the resultant isolating restrictions has meant that the legal requirement to have many documents including wills signed and witnessed in person is either not possible or at least very difficult to facilitate safely. The response of the NSW Parliament has been to introduce a regulation allowing for the witnessing of some documents, including wills, power of attorneys and enduring guardianships remotely by use of audio visual link (‘AVL’). The legislation commenced on 22 April and expires on 22 October 2020. An essential and preliminary issue is for the witness to

confirm the identity of the person who is to sign the document remotely and to ensure that the person actually signing is the identified person. When witnessing the signing of the documents by AVL, certain mandatory requirements are placed on the person witnessing the documents, including: to observe the person signing the document in real time, to attest or confirm that the signature was witnessed by signing the document or a copy of the document, to be reasonably satisfied that the document is the same document or a copy of the document signed by the signatory, and to endorse the document or a copy of the document signed with a statement setting out certain matters. The witness may sign a counterpart to the document being signed by the signatory or alternatively may countersign a scanned copy of the signatory’s document emailed through to the witness as soon as possible after the document is signed by the signatory and observed by the witness being signed. The requirements for remote witnessing must be strictly complied with in order for the document to be validly executed and witnessed. Documents are still permitted to be signed and witnessed in person in the usual manner where that can be performed safely and always observing social distancing rules and recommendations. Disclaimer: the content of this article is provided for information purposes only. The contents do not constitute legal advice and should not be used as such. Formal legal advice should be sought in particular matters.

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VET Chat by Dr Fiona Wallace of New Lambton Veterinary Clinic

Gastric dilation/torsion

Probably a new veterinary graduate’s most terrifying scenario (and pretty scary for the rest of us too!) is to be confronted with a patient whose abdomen is clearly bloated like a balloon, making a sound like a drum. This patient, usually a dog with a very deep chest (think for example of dogs with the body shape of Dobermans, Standard Poodles, Great Danes etc) is most likely to be suffering from a syndrome called gastric dilatation/volvulus (GDV), a rapidly progressing and often fatal condition. The stomach is rapidly filling with gas (the dilatation), and initial treatment is to decompress it as soon as possible with a needle (very James Herriot!!).

An attempt to pass a stomach tube under anaesthetic is most often thwarted because the stomach has usually managed to flip over itself inside the dog’s abdomen and twist (the torsion). In this case surgery is necessary to replace the stomach (and spleen) back into their normal position. Time is critical because the rapidly swelling stomach starts to cause compression of abdominal blood vessels and also the chest cavity, making breathing increasingly difficult and causing the dog to go into shock. Dogs who recover from surgery can have cardiac arrhythmias for weeks in the recovery period. What can you do to protect your dog? At risk breeds are large deep chested dogs. We suggest that you feed these guys their daily ration divided into at least two if not three meals each day. Repeated gluttony (leading to over-full stomachs) will stretch the ligaments that hold the stomach in place and make your dog more at risk of GDV. Secondly don’t allow your dog to exercise immediately after a meal. Have a routine of keeping him with you for an hour or so after feeding to make sure he is digesting his meal properly. Finally (or I should say initially!) we recommend that all deep chested breeds have a procedure called an “elective gastropexy” at desex time, which attaches the stomach to the side of the abdominal wall and completely prevents GDV from occurring.

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The Local > July 2020 > Page 21

Care

with Cheryl Shaw of Dogoverboard

Velcro dogs home alone

Now that we are returning a little more to normal, we need to think about how our dogs are coping. Some dogs are not adjusting to being left home alone and are insecure and experiencing separation anxiety. Dogs that are needy and clingy and by your side constantly can potentially be suffering from anxiety, they need reassurance. Even when you move from room to room they follow. We call these “Velcro” dogs, due to them being almost fastened or glued to your side. We need to help them build their confidence. All dogs can develop anxiety. High energy breeds like, Labradors, Border Collies, Jack Russells, German Shepperd Dogs, and Vislas are amongst the dogs that can have some issues, along with some lap dog breeds like Bichons and Cavaliers. Symptoms of behavioural anxiety problems can vary, depending on the individual, but barking, pacing, digging, chewing and destructive behaviour along with drooling, urinating and defecating can be signs your dog is feeling anxious about been separated.

The fun and healthy place for dogs

L BUSINE CA

Dogoverboard

PET

It is a long day to be home alone, when you consider they have been with you 24/7. I know at Dogoverboard we have been extremely busy in puppy crèche and doggy day care with owners looking for alternate care as they return to work. When you change the daily schedule for the dog you need to think about some extra things to be put into place to use some energy, like a good walk early morning so the dog is ready to rest when you go to work. Make sure to leave interactive toys available so the dog has something for stimulation, as a bored dog can become destructive and vocal. If your dog is a ball fan, give them lots. My daughter leaves her two poodles at my place every day whilst she is at work and the one year old Viennna is ball obsessed, so she has balls of every size to amuse herself and happily plays with them, she is not into fluffies or other toys. Another great stimulating and cognitive activity for dogs is using food puzzles or a food mat, they are fantastic. These special enrichment mats have different hiding areas for food, some have different textures, little pockets and hide holes and make the dog spend time searching, exploring, sniffing and keeps them busy, plus there is the bonus of a treat reward hidden inside. The treat can just be the dogs kibble or whatever you want to use. Try to slowly increase the time apart, starting in small time frames and gradually increase the time away from each other. When leaving remember not to say goodbye or pat as you leave, this builds excitement and then you go and the dog is deflated. If things are not going well with settling your dog, speak with your Vet as we need to help these dogs to accept and understand it’s OK to be alone. We all want a happy and healthy dog; we need to remove the Velcro.

2019

ARDS

WINNER

PET CARE CATEGORY HUNTER

The most comprehensive dog care centre in NSW! Thanks dog lovers for voting us Best Pet Care & Dog Grooming business in the Hunter 2014, 2016, 2018 & 2019! Professional Dog Grooming Doggy Day Care

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Nail clipping any time without an appointment!

Phone 4957 8500 Open 7 Days 10 William Street Adamstown dogoverboard.com.au Follow us on /Dogoverboard Page 22 > The Local > July 2020

PHARMACY

Matters by Anthony Piggott

of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Hamilton, Lambton and Merewether

Asthma

People with asthma have sensitive airways in their lungs which can make breathing difficult. Asthma affects about one in ten Australians. It cannot be cured, but it can be well controlled with medicines and lifestyle. This can allow you to live a normal and active life, free from symptoms. In asthma, breathing becomes difficult when certain triggers cause the airways to become narrower. The airways narrow because: • the lining of the airways becomes red and swollen (inflammed) • the muscles around the airways tighten • the airways produce extra mucus. Symptoms of asthma can be: • wheezing or a whistling sound with breathing • a dry cough • feeling breathless (short of breath) • feeling tight in the chest • finding it hard to breathe. You can have one or more of these symptoms. They often occur at night, early in the morning or with physical activity. Children may say they have a sore tummy or sore chest, or may get tired quickly. What can cause symptoms? There are many triggers that can cause or worsen asthma symptoms. Different people have different triggers. Some triggers are: •

allergens you breathe in (e.g. from house dust mites, pollens, moulds, animal hair) • air pollution (e.g. cigarette smoke, dust) • colds and flu • cold air • exercise or physical activity (exercise induced asthma) • reflux (heartburn) • certain medicines (e.g. aspirin, antiinflammatory pain relievers, beta blockers, echinacea, royal jelly) • strong smells and fumes (e.g. chemicals, paints, perfumes, cleaning agents) • emotional upset, stress, anxiety • some foods and food preservatives, flavourings and colourings. Some people have workrelated asthma that is triggered by something related to their work or workplace. Medicines Most asthma medicines are inhaled (breathed) into the lungs, using an inhaler device (e.g. a puffer). The main types of asthma medicines are called relievers and preventers. The Asthma medicines fact card has more information. Self care • Always carry a reliever inhaler (usually blue or grey colour) with you. If you need to use a reliever more than 2 days a week (not counting before exercise), your asthma may not be very well controlled. Discuss with a doctor. • Make sure you use your inhalers correctly. Ask your pharmacist to check your technique. • Don’t smoke and avoid other people’s smoke. Ask a pharmacist for help with quitting. • Find out what triggers your asthma and try to avoid it. Treat hayfever and reflux, as they may be triggering your asthma. • Be aware of when your asthma starts to get worse and know how to use your Asthma Action Plan. Ask a doctor, pharmacist or asthma educator for advice. • Teach your family, friends and co workers First Aid for Asthma. • Exercise regularly. Always warm up and if needed, use your reliever inhaler before exercise. • Check with your doctor or pharmacist before stopping or starting any medicines, even non-prescription medicines. • Wear a bracelet or necklace (e.g. a MedicAlert bracelet), that says you have asthma.

SUPPORTING THE FIGHT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Survivor’s R Us Incorporated is a not-for-profit charity and benevolent institution that supports the fight against domestic violence, homelessness and unemployment. If you need our services please contact us on phone 4953 7108 or mobile 0477 702 151 You will find us at Unit 1/3 Ranton St, Cardiff Web: survivorsrusincorporated.com Email: survivors@survivorsrusincorporated.com The Local > July 2020 > Page 23

A STUDY OF LIFE IN LAMBTON LAMBTON RESIDENTS GROUP

PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

CAPTION YOUR PHOTO BEGINNING WITH…

• Still life • Wildlife • Leisure life • Working life • Lifestyle • Way of life • • Life’s work • Lifelike • Lifelong • Lifeline • Lifesaver • Love of life • Lifetimes • • Low life • Midlife • Nightlife • Young life • Life in lockdown • NO LIMIT TO YOUR IMAGINATION! COLOUR, B&W OR COLLAGE CATEGORIES • Senior: Age 60+ • Adult: Age 18-60 • Junior: Age 17 & Under • People’s Choice • Photos will be printed on A4 size and on display at Lambton Bowling Club Email digital copies to mwebster7@bigpond.com and don’t forget to include the name of photographer, category and photo title. (maximum 4 entries per person) Competition Closes Page 24 > The Local > July5pm 2020 Friday August 21st, 2020, winners announced on dates to be advised. The organisers, Lambton Residents Group, reserve the right to reproduce and display any photo entries.

AGE Matters with Joseph McCarthy CEO of NovaCare Community Services

Elders become Zoomers during COVID-19

At NovaCare we have noticed some major changes during COVID-19. People living at home have been looking to adapt with technology to stay connected. The last few months have been very isolating for people living at home as they have followed the Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health advice for over 70s to self-isolate. NovaCare has three social centres at Merewether, Swansea and Morisset and they have all had to temporarily close. So instead of gathering together for friendship, exercise and fun, people have had to come up with new options.

To support people, NovaCare has introduced a number of new services. We have had regular phone calls with people to check how they are feeling and to see if there are any additional ways to support them. We have had our staff partner with elders to identify technology that they may want to use to connect with family, children, grandchildren and friends, including iPads and computers, and then arrange purchase and set up with them if needed. NovaCare has also launched NovaConnect which is an online service that can be accessed through our website www.novacare.org.au. You can now join a Virtual Social Centre and engage with others via your phone, tablet or computer to join exercise and relaxation classes, do your shopping, enjoy armchair travel, or to learn and listen. Our Strength, Balance and Relax class has been a particular hit. From your chair or standing you will enjoy building strength in your arms, legs and abdomen. The blend of Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates will leave you feeling taller, calmer and ready for living. To help people who were not confident how to connect to classes via Zoom our staff who have visited their homes to ensure it works for them. If you would like more information about NovaConnect, please call us on 1300 363 654. We look forward to helping you get started.

The Local > July 2020 > Page 25

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…

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINES

S IN THE LOCAL

With a home-delivered distribution of more than 10,000 copies in Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, North Lambton, Hamilton North and parts of Broadmeadow and Jesmond there’s is no better way to reach your immediate local market. We can tailor a package to suit any business and any budget. You may be surprised how cost-effective it really is to reach 10,000 local letterboxes... Call Mark today on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal.com.au and ask about a COMEBACK ADVERTISING PACKAGE that suits you!

Page 26 > The Local > July 2020

Local news from another time...

Below: from The Newcastle Morning Herald & Minersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate of Tuesday 20 July 1886

Below: from The Newcastle Morning Herald & Minersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Advocate of 10 July 1906

The Local > July 2020 > Page 27

SUPPORTING THE FIGHT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Survivorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s R Us Incorporated is a not-for-profit charity and benevolent institution that supports the fight against domestic violence, homelessness and unemployment. If you need our services please contact us on phone 4953 7108 or mobile 0477 702 151 You will find us at Unit 1/3 Ranton St, Cardiff Web: survivorsrusincorporated.com Email: survivors@survivorsrusincorporated.com Page 28 > The Local > July 2020

Local Trades and Service Directory

BUILDERS

BATHROOMS

DOG GROOMING

H&D NOVAK

Dogoverboard The fun and healthy place for dogs

THE BATHROOM SPECIALISTS

We specialise in custom made kitchens, bathrooms & laundries Free design and quotation Over 30 years experience

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CALL US TODAY

PHONE HENRY: 0412 680 359 OR DARREN: 0487 637 334

Neil Smith 0413 832 646 or Peter Kotz 0411 380 023

ELECTRICIAN

GARDEN SERVICES

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

GARDEN SERVICES

IAN’S MOWING SERVICE In your local area

● Lawn Mowing ● Edges ● Fertilize ● Spray for Weeds ● Reliable Service

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PHONE: 0467 682 017 djcelectrician@gmail.com

HANDYMAN

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FAMILY OWNED BUSINESS Lawn, Garden and General Maintenance Handy Man Services ✤ General Household Tasks Preparation of House for Sale or Rental Holiday Maintenance Services ✤ Gutter Cleaninq Rubbish Removal ✤ Quality Service Guaranteed For a FREE quote call Brett 0484 698 955 EMAIL: brett.casson@hotmaiI.com @premiumedgemowingandmaintenance

PAINTER

Andrew Turnbull PAINTER & DECORATOR

Making legal easy • Traffic • Criminal • Family • Wills • Litigation • Commercial • Employment • Conveyancing

1800 003 004

• mail@nlegal.com.au • 17 Beaumont St, Hamilton

3RD GENERATION NOVOCASTRIAN TRADESMAN 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE LICENSED & INSURED WORK GUARANTEED FREE COMPETITIVE QUOTES Lic. 143667C

PHONE 4965 5016 OR 0439 403 751

The Local > July 2020 > Page 29

PLUMBER

Classifieds... FOR SALE

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

24HR

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M: 0434 359 855

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

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CALL FOR A FREE COMPETITIVE QUOTE

Phone Jon on

0400 603 545 ADVERTISE HERE

CHANDALIER Pick up New Lambton, $50 Ph 0415 959 791 GARDEN TOOLS Shovels, spades, forks, mattocks, picks, hedging shears, pruning saws, brooms, lawn aerator, etc. Starting from $2 each. Ph 0421 003 693 VACUUM CLEANER Like-new fully reconditioned Nilfisk King 540 bagged commercial-grade with all nozzles and excellent turbine carpet head. Comes with several bags and new pre-filter. One year limited guarantee on parts & labour, discounted repairs for user-caused damages. Only $287 Please call Braith Ph 4952 2352 WETSUIT Girls Billabong wet suit, pink & grey, size 14, only worn once, pick up only, $150 o.n.o Ph 0415 959 791

Page 30 > The Local > July 2020

NOTICES

ANIMAL TRANSPORT Fetch Animal Transportation for small and medium animals to vets, groomers, kennels, airport and home again. Prices start from $40. Ph 0479 042 656 BLUE DRAGONFLY MASSAGE THERAPIST Lymphoedema Treatment, Remedial Massage, Aromatherapy, Lymphatic Drainage and Laser Treatments in New Lambton. Please call Tracy on 0419 531 231 or www. tracybaker.com.au LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Just like the classifieds in other newspapers except they’re free and they work!

Solution to crossword on page 28

W A

E D

B I

L E

A T

T A

S E

A S

C H

O W

Attention Tradies

Generate more business by reaching 10,000 + homes each and every month in The Local. Local residents love using reliable, local trades & services that they know and trust. Call Mark on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal. com.au today to find out how inexpensive

WANTED

COMBUSTION HEATER Mid to large size flued combustion heater wanted. Good condition, Heat control required. Ph 0488 211 155

Local Classifieds... NOTICES

NOTICES

FAMILY HISTORY SEARCH I am searching for children or descendants of Josephine Agnes Montgomery nee Madigan & William Desmond Montgomery. My father’s memory says they had four children Elizabeth, Fred, Jan & Margaret. I am hoping to find if any of these children or their children have a photo of Josephine’s mother Rabey May Madigan nee McMahon. I can be contacted on email at kcrowe5@ bigpond.com or Ph 0422 758 331

TO LET HOUSE & ROOMS FOR RENT House & rooms for rent in Newcastle. For rooms the rent includes water, electricity & wifi. Contact Daniel for more details. Ph 0452 465 546

NOTICES

Eric Loi

GGUITAR UITAR & BAS BASS TUITION All styles & levels Zoom online lelessons available Registered Creative Reggi Kids provider HSC Music 0419 642 096 Email: ericloimusic@bigpond.com

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 The Local > July 2020 > Page 31

Link your scripts to Piggott’s Pharmacy with myPharmacyLink app! TO REGISTER FOR THE APP, POP INTO PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY AND WE’LL PROVIDE YOU WITH AN ACTIVATION CODE

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CHILDREN’S CLARATYNE

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Relieve the symptoms of allergies fast

Like @piggotts to keep up to date with current health topics and other promotions.

Please do your part in keeping the Community health services and your friends healthy by being responsible. 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 > July 2020

♥ www.piggottspharmacy.com.au ♥