Carols in Lambton Park
On Sunday 15th December, Lambton Park will once again be turned into a Christmas spectacular as thousands of locals come together for Lambton Park Carols. Lambton Park Carols is a free, annual, family-friendly, community celebration of Christmas hosted by Hunter Bible Church for the local community to enjoy. Some of Newcastle’s best food trucks, activities and amusements will be operating from 5pm. All your favourite carols will be performed live by Hunter Bible Church volunteers from 7pm. Then at 9pm experience an epic fireworks finale.
Invite your friends, family and neighbours. Bring the kids for an evening of celebration, live music, local food, and Christmas cheer. For further information and updates closer to the event see the website lambtoncarols. com.au or check social media pages.
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Mail: PO Box 130 Jesmond, 2299
Founder & publisher: Mark Brooker
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with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local
Buy local this Christmas
I’ve said it before but it bears repeating. If not for the support of local businesses, The Local would not exist.
Without them placing advertising on these pages we could not pay for production, printing and delivery of The Local each month. I thank our advertisers directly whenever I get the chance but I would also like to thank them publicly here.
If they didn’t see a return on that investment they would, sooner or later, cease advertising. The return on that investment is you dear reader. Well, what I mean is, your custom is that return. By using their pharmacy for prescriptions, by engaging their professional services to sell a home or make a Will, or by buying Christmas gifts from them locally you are repaying their support of The Local.
But of course buying locally is bigger than just supporting your favourite little community newspaper, important as that is. By spending locally you are supporting local peoples’ businesses and local peoples’ jobs. Whether it’s in Elder Street, Alma Road or Beaumont Street, each of the commercial precincts in the suburbs we serve needs that support to remain alive and vibrant.
This Christmas, more than ever, please be conscious of spending locally wherever and whenever you can. Hard-working local businesses will appreciate your efforts like never before. Thanks again to our readers, writers, contributors, advertisers and letterbox deliverers for another great year. We look forward to working with you all to bring The Local to our community again in 2025.
New social housing opened
A new park-side social housing complex has recently been completed on Robinson Ave Lambton, where five older homes have been transformed into a modern 20-unit development, providing safe accommodation for up to 37 residents.
The development consists of eight one-bedroom and 12 two-bedroom units, with two of the units built to an adaptable standard to suit people with disabilities, and step-free access to all ground level units.
The social housing is well connected to transport with a bus stop less than 300 metres away and is conveniently walkable to both Lambton Public School and the local shopping centre.
Homes NSW worked with Kingston Building to redevelop the site overlooking Jesmond Park where 41 native trees were incorporated into the design of the lush oasis and over 53 jobs were created during the construction.
“I’m glad to see strong continued investment from the NSW Government in new social housing stock in the Wallsend Electorate. Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said at the opening.
“I thank Minister Jackson for her strong interest in ensuring we have new builds going up in Lambton, Waratah West, Wallsend and soon to be joined by new investment in housing in other areas of the Electorate” Ms Hornery added.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said
“This builds on our recent work in the Newcastle local government area where a Memorandum of Understanding with council is helping to fast-track housing projects to get more people off the waitlist and into safe and secure homes.
“Housing and homelessness is a state-wide issue
MP
for
was joined by Naveen Chandra, a senior executive with Homes NSW to open a new social housing development on the corner of Robinson Ave and Charlton St at Lambton
and this is a perfect example of this government’s commitment to delivering more housing in the regions that is safe, modern and fit-for-purpose.” she added.
Sonia Hornery
Member
Wallsend
Andrea Rufo remembered
Former Ward 3 Councillor and deputy lord mayor Andrea Rufo OAM passed away in November after losing his battle with cancer.
Mr Rufo served tirelessly as a Councillor for nine years. He was first elected as a Ward 3 Councillor in 2012, served as deputy lord mayor in 2014 and 2015. He was comfortably re-elected to a second term as Councillor in 2017.
Ahead of the 2021 election Mr Rufo announced he would be retiring from public life, referring to his service as a Councillor for City of Newcastle as one of his life’s greatest honours.
Mrs Sandie Rufo said her husband has left a lasting legacy of love for his family and for the people of a city he cared so much about.
Andrea received an OAM for services to the Hunter community in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in 2013. Mr Rufo will be dearly missed by his wife Sandie, his four daughters Jessica, Giordana, Candace and Kaitlin, his family, friends and the wider community.
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Councillor Andrea Rufo OAM at the Lambton Park War Memorial gates, where he campaigned for the restoration of the kangaroos in 2017
Citizen of the Year nominations open
City of Newcastle is giving the community a chance to recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of Novocastrians as part of the 2025 Citizen of the Year Awards.
Nominations are now open for the annual accolade, which honours locals who have gone above and beyond to make a positive impact in the community during the past 12 months.
Individuals and groups can be nominated across various categories including Citizen of the Year, Young Citizen of the Year, Senior Citizen of the Year, Community Group of the Year and Freeman of the City.
Lord mayor Ross Kerridge encouraged the public to take advantage of the easy online process to nominate someone who deserves to be recognised for their achievements and contribution to the community.
“The Citizen of the Year Awards provide us with a unique opportunity to acknowledge people in our community who have shown remarkable dedication and resilience,” Cr Kerridge said.
This year, the Citizen of the Year title was awarded to Professor Nathan Bartlett for his pioneering research into
respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
Professor Bartlett reflected on receiving the award for his innovative work, which has significantly contributed to improving health outcomes both locally and globally.
“I was honoured to receive the Citizen of the Year award on behalf of my dedicated research team and everyone who has supported our work,” Professor Bartlett said.
“It was humbling to join the ranks of such remarkable Novocastrians who have come before me, and I look forward to seeing the next Citizen of the Year continue this legacy of
SMALL BY DESIGN
community contribution.”
Nominations can be submitted online via the City of Newcastle website. Hardcopy forms are available at the City of Newcastle’s City Administration Centre. The deadline for nominations is 5pm, Friday 6 December.
Award recipients will be selected by a panel including the Lord Mayor, CEO, Councillors, and previous award winners, and announced at a ceremony in January.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit https://newcastle.nsw.gov.au/ citizenoftheyear.
GLOBAL IN ATTITUDE
Inner-city Newcastle. Now enrolling years 7-9
2024 recipients of City of Newcastle Citizen of the Year Awards
Lambton Poetry Prize winners
Winner of the adult category receives a $50 voucher courtesy of The Local
‘To Lambton Park’ by Anne Keating
I don’t claim to own you
I’m from some other place
But I’m drawn towards your green heart
With its easy, ambling pace.
No-one hoards your treasures
No fences force your shape
A breathing space, a backyard, a sports field
An escape.
Stretched around the meadow
Beside paths and promenades
Stand old and stately ancients
Who share coolness, gift their shades.
Broad figs and swaying redgums, Mahogany and box
The hoop pine and the paper bark, all species Of the copse.
They forever guard your pathways
Watch the runners, those who jog
Provide cover for the walkers
And a playground for the dog
They smile down on squealing young ones
And the mothers with their brood
Who come to find quiet corners where routine Can’t intrude.
In the middle of this playground
Stands a gift from times long past
When the suburb needed healing and the people Peace at last.
They built a tall rotunda Italianate and wide
A place for bands and dancing, for the preachers
And the bride.
It is still a favourite
When the Summer days are fair
The weddings and the brass bands,
Still draw the locals there.
They come in many colours,
Some casual, some grand
They stand beside the ghosts of those who once Claimed all your land.
Your spaces have grown with us
We’ve framed them for our needs
We swim inside your boundaries, mourn our soldiers
Praise their deeds.
But you are more than Anzac Day,
More than a place to play
Your worth is calming air and peace, worries washed away.
I stand and watch the shadows
I think of years gone by
Of the crowds that came and used you
Of those who’ve said goodbye.
Just a tiny slice of parkland
A place we all could lose
If our duties are forgotten and your legacy
Abused.
Winner of the junior category receives a $30 voucher courtesy of Mrs Laurel Leddy ‘Home’ by Jazmyn Hoare 13 years old
Lambton’s been my home
For all my years
But I’m here to share it
So please be ears
Watch how the children
Laugh and play
In Lambton park
They’re here to stay
Lambton pool
Is the place to be
Swimming and splashing
You see the glee
How about a book
For knowledge and joy
Go to lambton library
Little women! Oh boy
Not a reader?
How about some sport?
Cricket at the park?
Or tennis at the court?
Oh but now you’re hungry
Hmm let us see
Let’s go to Marlin’s Fresh fish from the sea
Meet me at Lizotte’s For some funky beats
Music and singing
While your family eats.
Though it’s the people That I love most
Our community’s the best
Sorry to boast
The people so loving
So caring and kind
Will always pick you up
When you fall behind
A place for family
A place for all ‘This is home.’
Of which I call
Letters to
A Basketball Stadium update
The public submissions for the proposed Hunter Indoor Sports Centre (HISC) has been published, all 667 of them. They came from council, organisations, the general public, and nine from government organisations. They have been collated by common themes to be addressed by the proponents. There were 174 submissions in support, and an overwhelming 484 submissions objecting to the proposal!
In reading some of the submissions, I noticed a trend. Support for the project seemed to be emotive arguments on why basketball needs a new stadium as the old one is falling apart and they have to be moved off their current site soon.
The objections however, were all evidence-based,substantial, and well-researched arguments on why the location of Wallarah and Blackley Ovals is wrong for this stadium, with many even agreeing that a new stadium is needed but that the site is wrong. Major concerns from council and government organisations include the significant impact on Turton Road, impact on major events being held at McDonald Jones Stadium due to increased traffic and lack of parking, and impact of flooding on the school and nearby residences. These exact concerns have been voiced by the community over the last year as well.
There was a collective sigh
of relief when we put our submissions in, but this process is far from over. At this moment, the proponent has received all the issues from the submission that they will need to address, and that may involve spending more of their limited funds to do more studies or tweak the designs. Their responses, due by June 2025, will then be assessed by the state planners in collaboration with other state departments, such as Transport and Crown Lands, and may include a site visit.
The state planners will then write an assessment on their project, include any concerns they may have. However, as more than 50 objections were received in the public submission period, this assessment will then be handed to the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), who will start their own assessment based on the reports from the state planners. We, the community, then get
to respond to state planners’ assessments again through another public submission process! The IPC will then follow up with the submissions and possibly hold a public meeting or hearing.
If the proponent takes the full six months allowed to respond to the issues from the public submission (at a further cost to them), then the reassessment by the state, the handing over to the IPC, another public submission and another assessment by the IPC, the entire process could take the whole of 2025.
Wouldn’t it be prudent to cut the losses now and just admit that this is not the right site, instead of bulldozing through the process because at some point, the proponents were told that this was the only suitable site?
The Lord Mayor has recommended a few potential sites, and the Premier promised that they will not lose the funds, so maybe the proponents should take up his offer in sourcing a new one right now - one that does not take a fair chunk of their funding just to fix the traffic, parking, and flooding issues.
Michelle Brown Lambton
Letters to The Local are always welcome. If you’ve got something to say send it to PO Box 130 Jesmond 2299 or email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au including your contact phone number. Preference is given to matters of local interest.
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• Backwash and rinse filter
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Terms and conditions apply. *Chemicals at an additional cost, if required. Green pools or equipment repairs will be quoted before work commences.
Choir takes on world and wins
Under the expert guidance of musical director, Benjamin Lambert, Newcastle Chamber Choir won two gold medals at the World Choir Games Champion’s competition in New Zealand in July this year.
The World Choir Games is the world’s largest global choral festival and competition. Based on Olympic ideals, the Games draws choirs from around the world to compete for the highest accolades in choral music.
The group’s next performance will be A Christmas Concert at Christ Church Cathedral.
Come and listen to exquisite music and join in for the carols! The afternoon promises to fill the magnificent Cathedral with the warmth of choral singing and spirit of Christmas.
In keeping with tradition, the concert will invite the audience to join in the carol singing, accompanied by organist Greg Smith, making for a memorable shared experience that captures the essence of
community and holiday cheer. A Christmas Concert at Christ Church Cathedral will be held on Sunday December 15th at 3pm. Tickets are $40 and $30 concession, available through ticketebo.com.au/nccchristmas
DAY at New Lambton Bowling Club, (Tauranga Rd, behind Wests car park)
Saturday 8th February from 9am to 2pm
Players that have played with Wests in the 2024 season can register online – you will receive an email with all details. Registrations will open on 1st January, 2025. We cater for all ages and skill levels from 7 years to Seniors. We train during the week at our courts at Kentish Oval and games are held at National Park Netball Courts Friday nights for 7 years and 8 years, Saturdays for all other ages.
For more information please contact the Secretary, Stephanie Bortkevitch on Mobile: 0412 525 900 or Email: sbortkevitch@gmail.com
Newcastle Chamber Choir
The Local Quiz
Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Gayle Hopwood of North Lambton.
Kathy has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy.
Last month’s mystery photo was John Hunter Hospital
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 - A new social housing development of 20 units, opened recently in Lambton, will house how many residents?
Question 2 - The Royal Crown Hotel in Adamstown was located on which corner?
Question 3 - On what date is Lambton Park Carols being held this year?
Question 4 - In what year did Andrea Rufo receive his Medal for the Order of Australia or OAM?
Question 5 - At which local Public School would you find the object picture above right?
Send your quiz answers to admin@hunterlocal. com.au with ‘The Local Quiz’ in the subject line or post them to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by Friday 13 December for a chance to win a $25 gift voucher* to spend at any Piggott’s Pharmacy store in Newcastle and the Hunter.
Is your letterbox feeling lucky?
If one of the letterboxes pictured above is yours, you’ve won a $25 shopping voucher from one of three great local retailers. Phone Mark at The Local on 0455 210 000 by 13 December to claim your prize.
There’s a $25 voucher for Lambton Fruit Market, a $25 voucher for Piggott’s Pharmacy and a $25 voucher for Q’s Books at Hamilton to choose from.
First in best dressed with the choice of vouchers. The vouchers must be claimed by 13 December and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 31 January 2025.
Congratulations to the residents of 63 Spruce Street North Lambton who claimed a prize by correctly identifying their letterbox last month.
Royal Crown Hotel, Adamstown
THAT WAS THEN This is now
with Lachlan Wetherall
In 1862 Robert and Mary Love and their children migrated from Scotland to New South Wales. The family settled in Lambton, where Robert worked as a storekeeper. In July 1874 an advertisement placed by Robert invited tenders to construct a brick building in Adamstown, 30ft by 25ft by 20ft high. After obtaining a publican’s licence, in December 1874 he opened Adamstown’s second hotel, the Royal Crown, on the north-east corner of Victoria and Union St (Brunker Rd).
Three years later Robert Love died, aged just 46. Mary took on the hotel, assisted by her family. In
Sonia Hornery MP State Member for Wallsend
67 Nelson Street, Wallsend Telephone: 4950 0955
Email: wallsend@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Web: soniahornery.com.au
the next four decades three of her sons-in-law were licensees of the hotel she owned. In 1904 Mary offered the hotel for sale at auction, however the reserve price was not met. The recent Local Options amendment to the NSW Liquor Act, which gave electors the ability to vote for liquor licence reductions, meant that owning a hotel was not as secure a business as it was previously. The Love family continued with the Royal Crown until Mary’s death in 1913. Castlemaine Brewery and Wood Brothers then purchased the hotel.
A societal desire for curbing alcohol consumption led to further changes to the Liquor Act, and the eventual demise of the hotel. In January 1921 the Licence Reduction Board determined that 23 hotels in Newcastle would be closed, including the Royal Crown in Adamstown. The hotel ceased in July, and the property was advertised for sale. Mary Love’s fourth son-in-law then purchased the property. Thomas and Janet Freeman owned the adjacent Kitchener Hall that they had built in 1915 “for picture show purposes”. Acquiring the former hotel allowed the Freemans in 1937 to rebuild and widen their picture theatre. (continued next page)
Authorised by Sonia Hornery MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.
(from previous page)
The cinema operated until 1965, when it was sold and converted to shops. The art deco façade of the former cinema survives to this day. However next door on the corner block, the Royal Crown Hotel building was demolished sometime between 1967 and 1974.
You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com
Above: Royal Crown Hotel, Adamstown, 9 September 1902. Photo by Ralph Snowball. Newcastle University, Living Histories.
Below: The hotel’s location in 2024, corner of Brunker Rd and Victoria St, with the former cinema building behind the tree.
she became the hospital’s first full-time haematologist in an emerging specialist field.
by Georgia Osland
Hey neighbour! Pamela Harrison
A trailblazer in modern medicine, Dr Pamela Harrison OAM has left a legacy in haematology and palliative care services in Newcastle.
The Lambton resident of 40 years dedicated about 25 of those to pioneering new and innovative ways of treating and caring for patients at the Calvary Mater Hospital, where she started her career as a trainee pathology technician in 1954.
After a stint at the Manning River District Hospital in Taree and working overseas in London, Pam studied medicine at the University of Sydney on a mature age scholarship.
In 1976 she was seconded from her post as director of the Royal Newcastle Hospital District Blood Transfusion Service to the Mater, where, three years later,
“I didn’t get much sleep,” Pam laughed, reflecting on her workload at the time.
Pam established the Hunter Haemophilia Treatment Centre, where cancer patients could be treated locally.
Then, in 1983, inspired by a seminar on palliative care, Pam dared to go where no physician had gone before: she brought palliative care to Newcastle.
“No one knew what it was,” Pam said. “I came back [from the seminar] thinking, ‘I can do that’. It sounded like just the right sort of thing to do in Newcastle. So, I decided that the next patient of mine who asked to go home to die, I’d make it possible.”
Pam founded the Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital Palliative Care Service and directed it, with the help of Sister Mary Brendan, voluntarily until it
Lambton’s Pamela Harrison OAM is credited with bringing palliative care to Newcastle.
was funded in 1986.
It wasn’t always easy, with staffing, equipment and community attitudes all posing challenges. But it was always worth it, Pam said.
“When I was a child, the lady next door died of cancer. My bedroom window was opposite hers and I could hear her in pain. So, to have the means to bring people relief was tremendous.”
Pam retired in 1996, three years after the Mercy Hospice opened, which much of her work paved the way for. She received a Medal of the Order of Australia in 2022 for her service.
She has kept busy in retirement, publishing several books on Maitland Gaol and Newcastle’s maritime history – that’s another chapter of Pam’s story.
One day, we might read about it in her autobiography.
Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here? Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au
Book Review
Sponsored by Q’s Books
A Day of Fire: A Novel of Pompeii
by Kate Quinn, Stephanie Dray, Ben Kane, Sophie Perinot, Vicky Alvear Shecter
A Day of Fire is an insight into the lives of multiple individuals in the approach and eventuation of the disaster in Pompeii.
Unlike some historical fiction, this was easy to read and understand. Although written by six different authors it flows from each section with a definite continuity. The result paints a comprehensive picture of not only the horrors experienced from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, but in the day to day struggles of the citizens - particularly the women in a dog eat dog city. The laws (or lack of), rife corruption and violence is evident seemingly in every facet. Politicians, gladiators, prostitutes, and all levels of class seem to be fighting for survival in some way or another. It’s hard to believe the setting is within a singular day.
In the chaos of the disaster, instead of supporting one another, looting and killing is commonplace. Although bleak, there are also moments of intense love, empathy and compassion that inspires feelings of hope and gratitude.
Humour is subtly included throughout which adds a refreshing contrast to the general doomsday atmosphere.
A wealth of knowledge was gathered with each page turn whilst not becoming a statistical history lesson. Exciting, gripping and highly recommended.
Review by Monique Lidgard
Here to HELP
with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape
You only get what you ask for
Dear Here to Help,
We are a small industry association, with a limited budget, and have been talking about doing advocacy for some years now. However, we haven’t had any impact in advocacy to date and we feel advocacy-stagnant.
We represent clinicians and one of our key advocacy goals is to reduce the incidence of chronic disease in indigenous communities. Indigenous communities bear higher chronic disease bur-dens.
Do you have any suggestions to help us advocate better on behalf of our member clinicians?
Thank you for your query.
There are two key advocacy tips for associations: (1) go for easy wins first, (2) have some data to back it up.
It’s important to begin your advocacy journey by identifying “low hanging fruit” advocacy goals. This will help build your – and your members –confidence and skills in advocacy.
The best place to start is your members’ expertise and their contribution to the community.
What community problem/s are your members good at solving?
What are the key obstacles to your members doing that even better?
Good data is key to successful advocacy.
In the health world, States and Territories across Australia have differing approaches to funding, staffing and outfitting key health services for chronic diseases. Each health service then implements (or doesn’t implement) its State government’s approach in its own way. This means there are many models of care across Australia and clinicians are often frustrated when their service doesn’t have the same (or even similar) levels of staffing or outfitting compared to their neighbours.
Would your members be interested in assistance “advocating” to their local health services to better meet their State or Territory government’s published models of care?
Do you have an evidence-based best practice model for your area of care? Researching and producing a best practice model of care is an obvious starting point to improving your advocacy capabilities and outcomes.
These advocacy goals would deliver immediate outcomes for your members and help improve their day-to-day working lives.
Please let me know how you go.
MONEY Matters
with Dominic Brown from Nest Financial Solutions
The story of Ronald Read
There are many stories about investing. People have made, and lost, fortunes in the most remarkable ways. However one of the most inspiring stories is that of Ronald Read.
Ronald was born in the 1920s in USA. For 25 years, he worked at the local garage and then as a janitor for a department store for another 19 years before retiring. He died in 2014 at 92 years of age. There was seemingly very little noteworthy about Ronald’s life except for the fact that he had an investment portfolio of over $8million.
To the surprise of everyone, he left an inheritance of $2million to his family and then gifted a further $6million to his local library and hospital. He amassed this wealth without winning the lottery, gambling or receiving an inheritance himself. Ronald became a self-made multi-millionaire by investing into the stockmarket over many years.
Two things struck me about Ronald Read’s story. Firstly that accumulating wealth is not something that is only available to the highest income earners. Anyone can get the benefits of investing. Ronald worked low paying jobs his whole life but this did not prevent from becoming wealthy.
Secondly, it shows investing is not something that is only available to Oxford economics graduates or people who work on Wall Street. It may seem confusing at times but you don’t necessarily need to have an intricate understanding of the sharemarkets to be a successful investor.
Ronald’s secret was that he lived within his means and invested regularly over a long period of time. It really does highlight what can be done if you have the right attitude and behaviour about money.
GENERAL ADVICE WARNING – This article is intended to be educational and informative. It should not be taken as a personal recommendation to you. If you feel that you may need financial advice then please do not hesitate to contact NEST Financial Solutions for a friendly
VET Chat
with Dr Cassy Macpherson of Elder St Vets
Parvovirus outbreak, vaccination is urged
Pet owners are reminded of the importance of timely puppy vaccinations as the city grapples with a recent outbreak of Parvovirus, a highly contagious and often fatal disease affecting dogs. Parvovirus, commonly known as “parvo,” spreads through contaminated faeces and can survive in the environment for months. It primarily impacts unvaccinated puppies and dogs, causing severe gastrointestinal symptoms, dehydration, and in many cases, death.
To protect your puppy, local veterinarians recommend starting a vaccination schedule at six to eight weeks of age. Puppies require a series of three vaccinations, spaced three to four weeks apart, with the final dose administered at 14–16 weeks.
Puppies aren’t fully protected until about two weeks after their final vaccination. Until then, it’s crucial to avoid high-risk areas like dog parks, beaches, and other spots where unvaccinat-ed dogs may have been
I advise owners to be cautious even in their own yards if they’ve recently adopted a puppy, as the virus can be introduced by wildlife or visitors. Socialisation is still important for young dogs, but it should take place in safe, controlled environments such as puppy preschool classes run by reputable trainers or at home with fully vaccinated dogs that have not been near an outbreak area.
Newcastle’s Parvovirus outbreak has been in the Cooks Hill area and is showing no signs of slowing, timely vaccinations are more critical than ever. By vaccinating and being cautious, you’re not just protecting your puppy but also helping to curb the spread of this devastating disease.
LAW Matters
by Ronnie Wall of Wall Legal, New Lambton
What is Title Insurance?
Title Insurance is a specific form of indemnity insurance available for vacant land, house or strata property, which can help to protect home buyers and existing homeowners against financial loss sustained from issues relating to the Title of their property. These issues may include illegal or non-compliant building works that may have been carried out by previous owners without Council approval, errors by Council in reporting any outstanding charges on a property, compulsory
acquisition of all or part of the property by the Government which was not known at the time of purchase, someone claiming an interest in the property in certain circumstances, any restrictions or covenants not known or disclosed in the property documents, competing ownership claim for the property, or boundary errors and encroachments. Title Insurance is different from your home and contents insurance, which protects the physical structure of your dwelling as well as your belongings. Title Insurance is intended to protect you from claims against the Title itself. Home and contents insurance policies are usually renewed annually and Title Insurance is a one off premium, which is valid for the period of your ownership of the property.
Title Insurance does not replace the need for due diligence, and it is imperative that you engage the services of a Solicitor or Conveyancer to protect your interests when purchasing a property. If you consider Title Insurance, it is important to read the details of the policy in relation to any limits or exclusions, in particular relating to things that are known to you at the time of your purchase.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for information purposes only. The contents should not be relied on as legal or financial advice
PHARMACY Matters
by Anthony Piggott of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Hamilton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether
Healthy living
Being overweight or obese affects some people more than others. It also increases the risk of developing a range of chronic health conditions. Healthy living is important for everyone. Leading a healthy lifestyle can improve your health, wellbeing and quality of life.
If you are overweight, healthy living may involve achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Weight loss leads to a range of important health benefits. The most successful way of losing weight is starting a healthy weight loss journey. Achieving a healthy weight is a gradual process. To lose weight, you need to make realistic changes to your diet and physical activity and stick to these as part of your everyday life.
Obesity and overweight
People who are overweight or obese have too much body fat. Fat around the waist (‘apple shape’) is more of a health risk than fat around the hips and thighs (‘pear shape’). While weight isn’t necessarily a predictor of health, people who are of a healthy weight are less likely to develop social problems and a range of medical conditions, including:
• high blood pressure
• heart disease • high blood cholesterol
• sleep apnoea.
Causes of weight gain
Most people put on weight because they eat and drink more energy than their body needs. The ‘extra energy’ that people use converts to fat in the body. The amount of energy your body needs depends on a number of things, including age, gender, genetic makeup and how active you are. Opportunities to make healthier lifestyle choices are not equal for everyone. Many factors are
thought to contribute to increasing rates of obesity in Australia:
• Easy access to unhealthy food.
• Fewer opportunities for physical activity meaning people lead sedentary lifestyles (e.g. we tend to drive to work and have increased access to screens).
• Cultural influences.
• Some medical conditions and medicines. Ask a pharmacist for more information about medicines and weight gain.
Weight loss plan
The Australian Government has committed to a national strategy to help the community reach and keep a healthy weight. This is achieved by creating more opportunities for individuals to make healthier choices about food and physical activity. An effective weight loss plan involves healthy eating and increased physical activity.
Healthy eating
It is important to develop ‘healthy eating’ habits, consume nutritious food and ensure your energy intake (what you eat or drink) does not exceed what your body needs.
• Eat the right amount of food. Use a kitchen scale to weigh out your food portion and ensure it is within the recommended serving size.
• Eat mainly vegetables, legumes and wholegrain foods (e.g. wholegrain/ wholemeal breads, cereals, pasta, rice, quinoa, couscous).
• Eat moderate amounts of fruit, lean meat, fish, skinless poultry, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds, reduced-fat dairy foods (e.g. milk, yoghurt, cheese).
• Eat small amounts of sugar, salt, oils and fats. Fat supplies twice as much energy as carbohydrate or protein, so eating less fat is an important way to reduce energy intake. Polyunsaturated or monounsaturated oils and fats are the best oils and fats to eat.
• Limit the amount of high energy foods and drinks you consume. High energy foods include high fat, high sugar and highly refined foods (e.g. pastries, pies, pizzas, hamburgers, chips, cream, creamy sauces, butter, sweets, cakes, biscuits, chocolate, soft drinks, fruit juices).
• Limit alcohol to no more than 10 standard drinks per week.
• Eat slowly and stop eating when comfortably full.
• Have a planned, regular pattern of eating healthy meals and snacks. This can boost body metabolism and reduce afternoon cravings.
Physical activity
It is important to engage in regular physical activity to use up energy. Exercise also changes your body shape and may build muscle.
• Start slowly by using everyday events to increase your activity (e.g. take the stairs, park the car 10 minutes away from work).
• Use equipment such as a pedometer or a fitness tracker to record and assess your daily physical activity.
• Do active things you enjoy and will want to continue.
• Take advantage of local connected active spaces.
• For general health and wellbeing, exercise at a moderate level for at least 30 minutes on all or most days of the week. To lose weight, you may need to do more physical activity
• There is a multitude of effective home-based exercise programs that you can do in the comfort of your home.
• If you are postpartum, have not exercised for a while or have medical condition(s), check with your doctor before starting an exercise routine.
Self care
• Understand how much daily energy your body needs by calculating your basal metabolic rate (BMR). You can use this information to plan a suitable weight loss regimen.
• Aim for gradual weight loss to ensure you are losing fat rather than muscle or water.
• Drink enough water every day to satisfy your thirst and to keep your urine ‘light-coloured’ (unless a doctor advises you not to).
• Record your physical activity, water and food intake using a diary or a Smartphone App. This
will track your energy intake and expenditure for the day.
• Try a homemade green smoothie to meet your daily vegetable intake.
• Consider doing ‘Meal Prep’ to ensure you have ready-to-go, nutritious and portioned meals.
• Avoid having a dieting mindset and focus on the positive changes to your health.
Other weight loss strategies
Discuss other management options with your doctor or pharmacist.
• Commercially formulated meal replacement products come in different forms. They have a low calorie content and aim to replace usual meals.
• Surgery may be a suitable option for some people.
• Some supplements are marketed as weight loss products. However, there is no proof that these products work.
• There are many resources and support networks to help people achieve a healthy weight and live a healthy lifestyle.
Important
• Reaching and keeping a healthy weight can be challenging but support is available.
• Make small, achievable changes to your lifestyle that you can maintain.
• Base your diet on the Australian Guide to Healthy Eating.
• Avoid unplanned or habitual eating, and keep to regular meals and snacks.
• ‘Fad’ or ‘yo-yo’ diets is not recommended. These diets are not sustainable and can cause health problems.
• Keep a food and physical activity diary or use a Smartphone App.
• Set realistic goals for weight loss and celebrate your milestones.
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 5 where the parents are experiencing difficulty in their parenting roles or are under stress. For information about volunteering or Home-Start services ph 4952 9488 or go to: www.homestartaustralia.org/
GEORGETOWN GIRL GUIDE DISTRICT
Georgetown Girl Guides offers fun and friendship to adult female volunteers from weekly Unit meetings to camping weekends. We also have vacancies in our Junior Guide Unit for 6-9 year olds. Please contact Susan at GeorgetownDM@girlguides-nswactnt.org.au or 0402 769454 for further information
COMMUNITY GROUPS
NORTHERN NSW FEDERATION JUSTICES OF THE PEACENEWCASTLE BRANCH
We provide a service that is free, impartial and culturally safe. Our Community Service Stands are scheduled for the 3rd Saturday of the month at Westfield Kotara (near Woolworths) from 10am to 1pm. We have weekday appointments available. Please contact our Branch Secretary on 0417 219 919. We welcome new members to join us. Our meetings are held monthly both face to face and online
BOOK AND COFFEE GROUP
Meeting fortnightly in Lambton. This discussion group will look at different books in the bible and discuss their relevance to today’s world. Contact Faye on 0411 166 500
COMMUNITY GROUPS
LAMBTON-NEW LAMBTON RSL SUB-BRANCH
Lambton-New Lambton RSL sub-branch is your local sub-branch. We meet at 10am on the second Sunday of the month at Club Lambton located at 51 Karoola Road. Whether you have retired from service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), Armed Forces, or are still serving, joining RSL NSW means so much more than being invited to events. It’s about joining a family of committed people who thrive on camaraderie and friendship. For more information send an email to lambton-new-lambtonsb@rslnsw.org. au
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. The group meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Next meeting will be a Christmas get together at The Mark Hotel on Wednesday 11 December at 5.30pm. For more information email: lambtonresidentsgroup@gmail.com or call Angela on 0422 633 737.
KARUMAH
CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
Karumah is a local charity committed to supporting those living and affected by HIV, funded by NSW Health. Join us at Flamingos Live for our special Christmas Spectacular fundraisers. Two shows over two days Wednesday 18 and Thursday 19 of December. Flamingos presents local professional artists performing all your Christmas favourites, door prizes, raffles, and giveaways. Visit Flamingos. live to book your tickets 4956 2066.
To have a free community notice published on these pages email the details to admin@hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.
Local Community Group Notices
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
HUNTER WOMEN OF NOTE CHORUS
Do you love to sing and perform? The Chorus is open to women 18yrs and over. We meet every Monday evening and sing barbershop style . For information, visit our website www. hunterwomenofnotechorus.com, connect on Facebook, or phone Maureen 0404 496 262
LAMBTON GARDEN CLUB
Lambton Garden Club meets at 1.30pm on the 3rd Saturday of each month in Lambton Library. Interesting topics, garden visits and outings are arranged. Contact Tammy for more information on Ph 4956 2241.
SENIORS GROUPS
THE PROBUS CLUB OF SHORTLAND INC.
We are a Combined Club who meets at the beautiful Hunter Wetlands on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 9.30am, for friendship and fellowship with the meeting starting at 10.am. We are currently looking for people over 55 years who have retired and would like to join us for Coffee Mornings, Outings of day trips and away trips, good Guest Speakers, and a great morning tea at our Meetings, followed by a BBQ on the following day. We have four lunches at the Wetlands per year. If you would like to find out more about this Club, please contact Alan on 49683325 or email westalan@hotmail.com
BEL AIR VIEW CLUB
Bel Air View Club meets on the third Monday of each month at South Leagues Club Merewether at 10.30 am. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed to join us for friendship and interesting guest speakers and to help support the Smith Family’s Learning for Life program which assists young Australian school children create a better future for themselves. For any further information please phone Gillian on 4963 5655 or email gillian.cranston@bigpond.com
SENIORS GROUPS
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 Wallsend Diggers Club, Tyrrell Street Wallsend. 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.
NOVACARE VOLUNTEERS
NovaCare are searching for reliable and trustworthy volunteers to join our organisation. Volunteer requirements include: being able to commit to a few hours each week; able to build relationships with consumers; reliable transport and drivers’ licence. Would suit active retirees. Enjoy getting to know your local community. If this sounds like you please call Britt Owens on 1300 363 654 or email brittanyo@novacare.org.au
NEWCASTLE LADIES’ PROBUS
We meet on the first Wednesday of the month at 10.30 at Wests Newcastle. We are a friendly group of ladies and we have a variety of activities which include coffee mornings, a walking group, lunches and other outings. Each month we have an interesting guest speaker. For more information contact Margaret 0417 663 064 or Ruth 0439 478 431
LAMBTON SENIORS GROUP
Interested in playing cards? Canasta is a great social game and is played every Thursday from 9.30 am to 1.30 pm at Club Lambton (the bowling club next to Lambton Pool. 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 0421 552 372 or Des 0419 694 096.
Local Classifieds...
FOR SALE
BIKE
Vintage ladies bike in good condition $70 o.n.o. Ph 0403 201 939
BUDGERIGARS
Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15
Ph 0456 919 046
DINGHY
Dolphin 10 foot aluminium dinghy with oars, rowlocks & anchor $150 Ph 4966 2384
HONEY
Local 100% pure and natural, no heating or sugar syrup, from our hives. Pick up New Lambton. $15 per kg
Ph 0423 050 778
KANGAROO PAW
Red & green kangaroo paw plants, approx. 350mm high, locally grown, very healthy, growing in 200mm pots, pick up Kotara. $6 each or 4 for $20. Bulk amount available.
Ph 0402 632 474
MOBILITY SCOOTER
Shop Rider mobility scooter. Completely serviced, new batteries and tyres $1800 cash only. Ph 0493 186 514
CROSSWORD SOLUTION FROM PAGE 28
BOWLS BADGES
100s of bowls badges in good condition. Pick up Merewether Ph 0403 201 939
NOTICES
CLEANER
Reliable experienced local. Top references. Residential & small businesses cared for. $25 hr weekly or fortnightly. Ph 0493 054 207
CLEANING SERVICE
Traci & Angie’s Cleaning Service. End of lease cleans, spring cleans and eco cleaning. All ironing services. Special rates for seniors and pensioners. All areas Ph 0413 176 439
COMPANION WANTED
Mature lady (prefer 60+) to be a companion on Sundays to a 60+ female. Please list hobbies. $155 /day. Contact by email to: rockorchid@gmail.com
HANDYMAN
All painting and gyprock repairs, plus most services in small renovation works. 30 years experience. Insured. Phone Jason Ph 0423 233 727
HANDYMAN
Available for rubbish removal, shed clearing and yard work. Good rates. Contact Ian Ph 0432 201 121
JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR THE MUSICAL
Capitol Theatre Sydney Wednesday 4 December 2024 at 1.00 pm. Coach leaves Wests New Lambton at 8.00 am. Pick up Warners Bay, Belmont, Swansea. Tickets $105.00 pp. Show & Coach. Bookings & details Ph 4952 8590
SANTA’S HELPER AVAILABLE
Santa’s helper looking for street parties etc. 56 year old with police and working with children check. Available Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only. $37.50 per hour Ph 0405 507 283
Local Classifieds...
NOTICES
GENTLE FLOW YOGA
New beginnings!
Connect & Strengthen
Join us at Gentle Flow Yoga classes, inviting weekly self care and relaxation. Prioritise finding the balance with time out for yourself to enhance your wellbeing and happiness. Keep moving through the school holidays with some classes still available Dec & Jan and enjoy the benefits of a gentle yoga practice. Beginners, seniors and travellers welcome. Gift vouchers available. Inquiries and bookings: Michelle Pirie
0400 790 479
(Dip Yoga Teaching IYTA)
NOTICES
MA’AT STUDIO PILATES
Lambton
A studio teaching the traditional Pilates Method, where “every body” is welcome. Mat, Private & Semi Private Studio Pilates classes available.
New class -
Mature Movers Mat
Pilates
Wednesdays 10:30am Improving balance, strength, mobility and overall health and wellbeing. Using a variety of small apparatus to assist and challenge the individual. Connecting mind and body through movement in a safe and supportive environment. Enquiries and bookings: Pene 0402 815 055 hello@maatstudiopilates. com www. maatstudiopilates.com
NOTICES
TICKETS FOR NEWCASTLE THEATRE CO. LAST SHOW FOR 2024
• The Dog Logs - Saturday 30 November at 2pm Tickets $30pp, saving $5pp. For bookings and details of 2025 shows Ph 4952 8590
WANTED
VIEWMASTER REEL LOTS
Prefer complete packages with booklet, slip cover & reel sleeves. All categories considered subject to condition. Please call with details & leave message. Ph 0431 742 240
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
They are free and they work! Whether you’ve got something to sell or something to tell send us your message by 15th of the month by email to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or by post to PO Box 130 Jesmond 2299. We can help you to reach more than 11,000 local households each month.
SOMETHING TO SELL OR TO TELL?
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, Jesmond 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 advertising please email mark@ hunterlocal.com.au
Did you know…
All Piggott’s Pharmacies are taking part in the NSW Pharmacy Trial which has expanded to include skin conditions. The trial allows our highly trained Pharmacists to diagnose, treat and manage uncomplicated skin conditions. This may include treatment with some medications that would normally only be available with a prescription from a doctor.
You may be eligible to have your skin condition treated if you have symptoms of:
ª Mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (eczema) and are aged between 6 months and 65 years old (inclusive)
ª Herpes zoster (shingles) and are 18 years and older
ª Impetigo (school sores) and are 12 months and older
ª Mild plaque psoriasis and are 18 years and older
If you are concerned and need advice about the condition of your skin or a rash that has appeared, drop into your local Piggott’s Pharmacy today!
The team at Piggott’s Pharmacy would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
58 Orchardtown Rd, New Lambton Phone: 4957 2474
105 Elder Street, Lambton Phone: 4957 3630