The Local - February 2024

Your loca voice sinc l e 2014

Like us on Facebook or go to www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au for more news • Issue No 118 • Newcastle’s favourite little community newspaper • February 2024 •

Breast care nurse for Mater A donation of $420,000 from NRMA Insurance to the McGrath Foundation will fund breast care nurse, Helen Moore, at Calvary Mater Newcastle over the next three years, helping hundreds of families.

With 57 people diagnosed with breast cancer every day in Australia there is an increasing need for specialist McGrath Foundation breast care nurses to support those impacted. Nurses help breast cancer patients with a diverse range of physical, emotional and psychological needs by offering care and support at no cost.

Breast care nurse, Helen Moore said “I take pride in knowing I am that central point of contact for my patients and ensuring they feel reassured and supported. It’s a privilege to be a trusted, consistent advocate for people with breast cancer and their families.”

continued on page 7

(L to R): Glenn McGrath of the McGrath Foundation, breast care nurses Kate Williams & Helen Moore and Michelle Klein from NRMA Insurance

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LOCAL

Matters All editorial, advertising and distribution enquiries to Mark Brooker By email: mark@ hunterlocal.com.au or ph 0455 210 000 Mail: PO Box 130 Lambton, 2299 Founder & publisher: Mark Brooker

Advertising bookings for March issue close on Friday 16 February The Local is lovingly produced then carefully hand delivered each and every month to more than 11,000 residential letterboxes and businesses in Lambton, North Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, Broadmeadow, Hamilton North, Jesmond and Kotara.

You can find back issues of The Local and check out the latest community news and information at: www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au or on our Facebook page @thelocalnewcastle. If you enjoy receiving The Local in your letterbox each month please support the businesses you see advertising on these pages.

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Page 2 > The Local > February 2024

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

Getting the loyal treatment

In the weeks leading up to Christmas, as I queued patiently at a variety of supermarket checkouts, with trolleys of yet more absolutely essential items, I was struck by the number of customers who flashed their store loyalty cards and had their transaction paid wholly or mostly with points.

I may be wrong but I got the impression that staff were encouraging customers to use their points balance before the year’s end. Of course some customers might deliberately save their points each year until Christmas to take some of the pressure off when it’s needed most. Makes sense.

As a family we’ve never really bothered with rewards programs from the big retailers. I always thought it was just a con, a way of identifying the purchaser by email address and/or phone number and/or their physical address and then marketing incessantly to them. Well there’s no denying it, it clearly is exactly that. The major retail groups want to know who we are, what we buy and how often we buy it.

But is there a genuine upside to giving them that information? Is relinquishing the privacy of your consumer behaviour worth it? Most people must think it is worth it because, according to some research that Google threw up at me, 79% of Australian consumers have established some form of relationship with the brands they purchase from— either a membership, retail subscription or loyalty program—and 17% of all consumers have all three types.

So we’ve recently got with the strength, joined the majority, and set up loyalty rewards accounts with the big two supermarket chains.

Time will tell if it has been worth swapping each $1 of spending behaviour for 1 point of rewards. www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Citizen of year announced A dedicated medical researcher who helped develop an effective preventative treatment for respiratory viral diseases including COVID-19 has been selected as Newcastle’s 2024 citizen of the year.

Professor Nathan Bartlett received the honour at a recent award ceremony for his efforts across multiple research and education projects that will help future generations face the impact of respiratory infections including the COVID-19 virus.

The viral immunology professor and lecturer at the University of Newcastle played an integral role in the development of a nasal spray designed to prevent respiratory viral diseases such as COVID-19.

The spray, which is currently in clinical trials, is designed for high-risk groups such as immunecompromised patients and the elderly for whom vaccination may be less effective.

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Mr Bartlett’s selection as citizen of the year recognises his ongoing commitment to improving health outcomes for others.

“Professor Bartlett’s pioneering medical research will save lives,” Cr Nelmes said.

“As new variants of COVID-19 continue to make people very

(L to R): Emma Griffin and Chris Jones of community group of the year - LIVEFree Project; senior citizen of the year, Professor Julie Byles; lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes; citizen of the year Professor Nathan Bartlett; and young citizen of the year Olivia Hughes. unwell, his role in developing an effective treatment particularly to help those in our community at the greatest risk of severe disease and death remains vital.

“He has spent countless hours educating the community and industry bodies such as the National Asthma Council to better understand and cope with COVID-19 and respiratory viruses and dedicates his time to teaching and mentoring the next generation of medical professionals and biomedical researchers.

“The citizen of the year award is a fitting honour for his over 20 years of service to medical science and his care and commitment to the wellbeing of our community.”

Professor Bartlett said it was an honour to receive the award and to contribute to the incredible work being done in the region in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.

“I am honoured to accept this award on behalf of my team and those key collaborators without whom much of this work would not have been possible.” Professor Bartlett said.

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Clean Up Lambton Park

Lambton Park will once again benefit from a Clean Up Australia Day event this year.

Lambton Residents Group will be hosting and supervising the event for the fourth consecutive year.

Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia says: “Clean Up Australia Day is the largest volunteer clean up event across the nation each year and the most practical way to educate and demonstrate waste prevention.”

“By rolling up our sleeves and witnessing the sheer quantity as well as the common types of litter lining our streets, bushlands and waterways, we can gain a better insight into our own personal or household footprints on the environment.” she added.

Mark Brooker, site supervisor for the Lambton Park Clean Up event and member of Lambton Residents Group said “We know it’s a beautiful park and a community asset we are all proud of. And to be honest on most days it’s pretty clean. But it pays for us to give it a reaaly close look each year.”

“Last year we uncovered a shopping trolley in the creek, as well as some old camp chairs and a timber pallet. It is amazing what you find when you have a close look.”

“It’s important that we keep the creek banks and edges clear of rubbish. This goes a long way to keeping our waterways cleaner” He said.

“We are always excited for new

community members to join us who are yet to see what makes Clean Up Australia Day such a rewarding experience and why each year our community members keep coming back for more. It is such a special time to come together to care for and protect our environment for future generations.” Pip said.

The Clean Up event at Lambton Park will run from 9 to 10.30am on Sunday 3 March. Meet at the picnic tables, under the fig trees opposites Lizotte’s.

To register go to www. c l e a n u p a u s t r a l i a d a y. o rg . a u / register/, hit the ‘Join a Clean Up button and search ‘Lambton’. Or you can just show up on the day to register.

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Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery with Lambton Residents Group members Warwick and Leonie Alexander at last year’s Clean Up in Lambton Park

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Continued from front page McGrath Foundation co-founder and president, Glenn McGrath commented “Our nurses help patients and their families navigate the complex medical system as well as the feelings that come with a breast cancer diagnosis and throughout the treatment process.

With the growing rate of breast cancer diagnoses in Australia, the funding we receive from NRMA Insurance is vital and is helping us towards achieving our goal of funding 250 nurses, to help ensure no one misses out on care.”

Chief customer and marketing officer for NRMA Insurance Michelle Klein said: “We are proud to continue our support of the McGrath Foundation by funding a second McGrath breast care nurse, this time to help people impacted by breast cancer in Newcastle and surrounding suburbs.

“We have seen first hand the incredible impact Kate Williams has had in her community in South Australia. From diagnosis right throughout treatment, McGrath breast care nurses help individuals and their families free of charge. This support is invaluable and importantly gives people time in their lives that is not defined by breast cancer.”

The vital funds were raised during the NRMA Insurance Pink Test’s Jane McGrath Day at the Sydney Cricket Ground on 5 January.

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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. Call Mark at The Local on 0455 210 000 by 16 February 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.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

First in best dressed with the choice of vouchers.

The vouchers must be claimed by 16 February and redeemed at your chosen retailer no later than 31 March 2024.

Congratulations to the residents of 28 Hill St North Lambton, 58 Mackie Ave New Lambton and 60 Charlton St Lambton who each claimed a prize by correctly identifying their letterbox last month.

The Local > February 2024 > Page 11

The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner Gemma De Laurentis of New Lambton. Gemma has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy. Last month’s mystery photo was taken at Mackie Ave New Lambton.

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 - When is opening night for Newcastle Theatre Company’s first production for 2024?

Question 2 - Who was named Newcastle Citizen of the Year recently?

Question 3 - Noble Street North Lambton was previously known by what name?

Question 4 - Glenn McGrath is president of which charitable foundation?

Question 5 - Where would you find the former ticket booth pictured at 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, Lambton 2299 by Friday 16 February for a chance to win a $25 gift voucher* to spend at any Piggott’s Pharmacy store in Newcastle and the Hunter. *Not redeemable on prescription medicines

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The Local > February 2024 > Page 13

Newcastle leads in housing approvals

BE A JAFFA IN 2024!

REGISTRATION INFORMATION FOR LAMBTON JAFFAS JUNIOR FC

We are a community-based Club catering for players of all age groups from Over 35’s, Ladies, All Age and players 5 to 18 years of age.

Information sessions will be held at the club’s facilities at Harry Edwards Oval: Saturday 3 February 10am to 12pm Wednesday 7 February 4.30pm to 6pm Saturday 10 February 10am to 12pm HOW TO REGISTER:

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

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

For further enquiries please email lambtonjaffasjuniors@gmail.com, contact Registrar Rachael: 0411 499 034 or Secretary Jenny: 0402 734 604 Page 14 > The Local > February 2024

Newcastle is at the forefront of the State’s housing supply pipeline, recording the third highest number of building approvals for new dwellings in NSW this financial year.

Figures released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show 920 dwellings, worth more than $476 million, have been approved for construction in Newcastle this financial year in the five months to the end of November 2023, with the city accounting for over five per cent of the State’s dwelling approvals (18,316).

Newcastle is ranked only behind the Western Sydney regions of The Hills Shire (1579) and Blacktown (1442), and had more than double the dwelling approvals of other Hunter council areas including Cessnock (439) and Lake Macquarie (417).

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Newcastle was leading the way in the supply of housing in the Hunter and across the State thanks to decades of forward planning by City of Newcastle (CN).

“For more than a decade, City of Newcastle has been planning for future growth and higher densities to facilitate housing opportunities for the local government area, by increasing housing diversity close to transport, infrastructure, and social amenity,” Cr Nelmes said.

“In the 2022/23 financial year City of Newcastle approved almost 1500 new dwellings and it is pleasing to see these projects now flowing through into the construction phase, with commencement approval for 920 houses, units and apartments.

“As significant levels of residential development continue to unfold across our city, we will continue meeting the housing targets set by the NSW Government while supporting positive outcomes for the local economy, construction industry, and the creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs.”

The latest forecasts show the Newcastle local government area (LGA) population is set to increase by 41,150 residents to 202,050 by 2041, which will stimulate demand for almost 20,000 new dwellings.

Based on the supply pipeline within the Newcastle LGA, City of Newcastle met the new dwelling demand by 2021 early and is on track to meet its demand for 2026 and 2041. www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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Panoramic

THAT WAS This year marks 120 years since George Henry THEN Dawkins captured a remarkable snapshot of our This is now locality in 1904. Dawkins was born in Lambton

around 1874. His interest in photography is first noted in 1900 when he demonstrated lantern slide making to the recently formed but short-lived Newcastle Amateur Camera Club. A few years later he was instrumental in the formation of a new camera club

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peep over our towns and served as a committee member for many years.

In 1904 Dawkins purchased a block of land on the heights above Lambton. From that property on the west side of First St (later renamed to Noble St) he photographed a four-frame panorama looking southwards. He then mounted the prints on foldout panels with an ornate burgundy coloured front cover with the title “A Peep at Old and New Lambton, NSW, from Lambton Heights.”

The panorama is striking in the detail it contains. We can observe prominent landmarks that remain to this day including the park rotunda, council building (now the library), Mechanics’ Institute building, and the stone church in Dickson St. The photo also highlights how much has changed.

Many of the houses in 1904 are basic wooden structures. While the Lambton mine pithead is hidden behind a hill, the colliery rail line and bridges can be seen running over Hobart Rd. In panels 3 and 4, we see large swathes of open land south of Howe St and wooded land on the hill, yet to be developed as it was mining company land.

While Dawkins’ paying job was as a printer, he also volunteered with many local organisations such as the Mechanics’ Institute, Bowling club, and the Wallsend hospital board. In 1907 he contributed photos to a Newcastle Tourist Guide, and during World War 1 he offered to take photos free of charge, of any men in Lambton enlisting as soldiers.

George Dawkins died in Lambton in 1922 aged just 48, leaving us the legacy of a wonderfully fascinating panoramic peep into our past.

You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

Above: Panoramic view over Lambton, 1904. Photo by George Henry Dawkins.

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Win tickets to NTC season opener The first production in Newcastle Theatre Company’s 2024 Season is The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.

Directed by Zac Smith, it is the story of a remarkable boy with an extraordinary mind.

Christopher is a maths

prodigy, a keen observer, and uniquely perceptive.

Everyday life however poses challenges for him – he has never ventured beyond his street, avoids physical contact, and distrusts strangers.

One night, just seven minutes before midnight, Christopher discovers

Mrs Shears’ dog dead in the front yard, a garden fork lodged in its neck.

He’s the prime suspect in this bewildering mystery, and the only one who can solve it is Christopher.

What unfolds is a journey he could never have foreseen.

The enigmatic world

Season

BOOKINGS: call 4952 4958 or online newcastletheatrecompany.com.au WEDNESDAY SPECIAL: all tickets $30 • 90 De Vitre Street • Lambton • Page 18 > The Local > February 2024

Sat 3, Fri 9, Sat 10, Wed 14, Fri 16 & Sat 17 Feb @ 7.30pm Matinees Sun 4, Sat 10 & Sun 11 Feb @ 2pm

Christopher lives in takes centre stage.

This enthralling production explores the extraordinary mind of a young genius as he unravels the mysteries that entangle his life.

It’s a story of determination, discovery, and the unexpected connections that emerge in the most unlikely places.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime opens on Saturday 3 February at 7.30pm.

Evening performances will then be held on Friday 9, Saturday 10, Wednesday 14, Friday 16 and Saturday 17 February.

Matinees performances will be at 2pm on Sunday 4, Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 February.

The Local has one double pass to the winner’s choice of performance of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime.

To be in the running for the double pass just text the words ‘Curious Incident’, your first and last name, and your preferred performance day/time to 0455 210 000

by Friday 9 February.

The winner will be advised by phone and their name published in next month’s issue of The Local.

www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Hey neighbour!

by Georgia Osland

Alan Playford pictured with a Newcastle earthquake commemorative edition of the Newcastle Herald

Alan Playford

A “labour of love” has kept Alan Playford from fully retiring.

The New Lambton resident has been a paramedic for 47 years, witnessing the birth of paramedicine in the 1970s and taking cutting-edge treatment abroad on several peacekeeping missions with the United Nations.

Alan had served three years as an ambulance officer before he was hand-picked, among other candidates from Newcastle, Wollongong and Sydney, to undergo training at St Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney under the stewardship of Dr Bob Wright AM. “Paramedicine was a huge step forward,” Alan said.

“The Vietnam War was ending, and all the pre-hospital care specialists were sharing their skills with what could be done outside of hospital.

“Suddenly, what would normally be done in hospital was now being done on the roadside or bedside, saving lives we would have otherwise lost.”

A confronting job, Alan says he quickly learned to “sympathetically detach” from emergencies to keep a cool head, a skill he now teaches university graduates in Queensland.

He spends a week at a time with the state’s newest paramedics, mentoring them through their first weeks on the job.

“You have to become what’s called a director of traffic,” Alan said. “At a big scene, you need one person who’s in charge calling the shots; to be decisive, authoritative, and to know what needs to happen next.”

Alan has had plenty of practice directing traffic throughout his long and storied career.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

In 1989 he was integral to the rescue efforts during the Newcastle earthquake, including the recovery of trapped victims at Newcastle Workers Club.

He spent five months delivering medical aid in the Rwanda genocide in Africa in 1994, and later in the East Timor conflict, leading him to being an active member of the Lambton-New Lambton RSL Sub-branch today.

Alan also became one of the longest-serving paramedics with the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service in Newcastle.

He is currently writing an as-yetuntitled book; an anthology of war stories, which he aims to publish later this year.

“I’ve seen some things,” Alan reflected. “I wouldn’t change any of it.”

Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here?

Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au The Local > February 2024 > Page 19

Author Profile: Trent Dalton

For everyone loving the series based on Trent Dalton’s book, Boy Swallows Universe, here are some more of his wonderful books to enjoy. Trent is a much-loved Australian author who mas won many journalism awards and literary prizes.

A mother-daughter duo find refuge in a riverside scrap yard and sleep in its brokendown cars. Many of the characters in the book are based on people Trent met at a homeless shelter while working as a reporter.

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Set in the Northern Territory in 1942, this is a story about Molly, a gravedigger’s daughter.

A story about gifts that fall from the sky, curses dug from the earth and the secrets we bury inside ourselves.

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This book tells the story of the epic voyage of the First Fleet, as told from the point of view of the people who took part in it - willingly or unwillingly

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Why have the secure bike storage facilities been removed from Newcastle? How is anyone meant to use active transport if there is nowhere safe to store our bikes?

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0400 603 545 Page 22 > The Local > February 2024

Thank you for your query.

It does look like Newcastle’s secure bike storage facilities have been removed. They were at train stations, eg Newcastle station. I rang City of Newcastle and Transport for NSW, but neither had a response.

Transport for NSW’s website has a searchable list of all secure bike storage facilities they provide here https://bikelocker.transport.nsw.gov.au/bike-parkinglocations.

Most are in Sydney, the Central Coast and Wollongong.

There are none listed in or around Newcastle any more. They used to be at the central train stations, as recently as the beginning of covid. You can submit a request for new secure bike storage facilities on that page too.

Our Council talks about what it is doing for cycling and active transport here - https://newcastle.nsw.gov. au/living/transport-and-parking/cycling.

You can access their cycling plan there. However, there is no mention of secure bike parking facilities. Some information on bike racks is available. Regarding secure bike storage, City of Newcastle refers queries to Transport for NSW. It’s starting to sound like a Catch-22 situation, isn’t it?

There are a number of options that you can pursue to request that secure bike storage in Newcastle is reinstated to assist you commuting to work by bike: • Contact Newcastle Cycleways Movement https:// www.newcastlecycleways.org.au/ • Contact Bicycle NSW https://bicyclensw.org.au/ • Contact Newcastle City Council via their customer request form https://www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/ about-us/forms-and-publications/forms-and-permits/ customer-request-form • Suggest a new location to Transport for NSW/NSW government https://bikelocker.transport.nsw.gov.au/ suggest-new-location

GET YOUR MESSAGE

OUT THERE!

Reach more than 11,000 local homes and businesses each month…

Call Mark on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal.com.au www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

PHYSIO

Matters with Ben Hutton of Brightside Physio

The truth about you Here’s the truth. Your genetics are like poker. You can’t change the cards you’ve been dealt, but you can damn well change the way you play ‘em. *Tinkerbell is one of my patients and she has a hip like a hard hat - stiff, uncomfortable and hard to walk in.

But then, both her parents had dodgy hips…And her X ray unkindly suggested a ‘genetic predisposition’ to hip arthritis…so what can she do!? Seems like a

problem that can’t be fixed.

Here’s the poker-faced truth.

You can’t change the hand you’re dealt. You can change how cleverly you play those cards.

For Tinkerbell (definitely her real name) it has meant: • more swimming than walking • strengthening her buttocks • gentle stretching of the muscles at the front of the hip • sometimes taking anti-inflammatories • physio to help reduce pain and sleep better To be truthful, she’s not 100%. But she came in before Christmas to say that she’s been able to work out at the gym three times per week and has started doing some gentle jogging (shuffling). And her hip is managing pretty well. She was so happy there was a little dance as she walked out of Brightside.

I’ve got the best job in the world.

For sticky hips and tricky bits call the fine folks at Brightside HQ 4062 8862 or do the online thing www.brightsidephysio.com.au

Better physio.

For better humans.

EAM SIO T Y H P L LOCA YOUR EWS! LE REVI G O O G 5 STAR

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

BRIGHTSIDE PHYSIO brightsidephysio.com.au 90 Elder St Lambton

The Local > February 2024 > Page 23

LAW

Matters

by Emma Essex

Lawyer at Newcastle Legal

Family law rules of thumb FAMILY LAW ROADMAP Know where you stand.

Free, instant, personalised online family law roadmap tool.

Visit www.nlegal.com.au and click ‘Free Family Law Roadmap’ 17 Beaumont St, Hamilton T: 1800 003 004 E: mail@nlegal.com.au W: www.nlegal.com.au Page 24 > The Local > February 2024

When a family court is determining each person’s share of the assets and liabilities it does not apply formulaic rules. There are, however, broad rules of thumb that family courts tend to use as a starting point in determining who gets what, including as follows.

A preliminary point is that it does not usually matter whose name each asset or debt is in. Exceptions include where there is a ‘wastage’, for example because of gambling.

In a short-term relationship of less than five years where there are no children of the relationship, parties can expect to walk away with roughly what they entered the relationship with, subject to allowances for substantial changes in wealth during that period.

In a medium-term relationship of between five and 12 years, the assets and liabilities of each party when they entered the relationship will be given less weight. A court will be interested in knowing the contributions of each party to the relationship and of any parenting responsibilities.

In a long-term relationship of more than 12 years, a court may start from the point of considering that each party is entitled to 50% of the net assets subject to special considerations.

Special considerations might be that the children of the relationship live primarily with one parent, affecting that parent’s employment or earning potential. Child support payments from the non-resident parent are intended to account for most of the costs however it is common for a court to order that a parent who has primary custody should receive between 52.5% 60% of the net asset pool, depending on the particular circumstances of the case.

The variables are many. Use our free, instant online family law roadmap tool to find out where you stand. www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

VET Chat with Dr Toni Forsyth of Elder St Vets

Passion project

If you’ve wandered along Elder Street recently you may already have seen the hustle and bustle around shop numbers 124 and 126.

Yes there’s a new kid in town and she’s pretty sparkly.

Elder St Vets is the brainchild of myself, Dr Toni Forsyth, and Dr Darren Gibbins.

Collectively we have around 50 years of experience in veterinary care. Our love for animals and determination to keep veterinary practices independent have led to this new venture in Lambton.

Being a bit of a passion project and not just another business venture. No expense has been spared to

make sure animals and their humans are kept as comfortable as possible whilst they come in for their care.

Cat lovers should especially rejoice because there is a world first cat enclosure so that your feline friend can have a jungle adventure and roam freely.

It makes for a super cute photo opportunity, and for you to show off your stunning feline knowing how proud the cat mums and dads are but how they rarely get to show off their fur kids.

And we haven’t forgotten about dog owners. We will be producing homemade dehydrated beef, chicken and vegetable treats and have plenty of space for them to wait in.

And if they’re anxious we have a separate outdoor patio with its own entrance.

As you’d expect we will also have all the latest gadgets and medical equipment to make diagnosing your pet as quick and stress free as possible.

As a joke we’ve been calling the clinic a spa retreat combined with a super clinic. You’ll see what we mean when you come in.

We are looking forward to meeting everyone as we open at the beginning of February.

Feel free to pop in and say hello. We promise we don’t bite!

• OPENING MID-FEBRUARY •

community • care • compassion

• 124-126 Elder St Lambton • 4072 4700 • info@elderstvets.com.au • • elderstvets.com.au •

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2024 > Page 25

PHARMACY

Matters

by Anthony Piggott

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

Cold sores

Cold sores are small, blistering sores that occur in or around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are a common infection that can be managed with medicines and other treatments available from a pharmacist.

There are two types of the herpes simplex virus, called type 1 and type 2. Cold sores are usually caused by herpes simplex type 1. Herpes simplex type 2 usually causes sores on your genitals (genital herpes). However, both types of herpes simplex can cause cold sores and both types can cause genital herpes. Once you have a herpes simplex virus it stays in your body for life. It may cause a cold sore (or other symptoms) at first, but then it usually lies ‘asleep’ (dormant) in nerve cells. From time to time the virus can ‘wake-up’ (reactivate) and cause a cold sore. Cold sores usually first occur in childhood.

They are commonly passed on by skin contact, such as a kiss from a family member who has a cold sore.

Triggers for cold sores

Some triggers that can re-activate the virus to cause a cold sore are sunlight, dry lips, damage to the lip or skin area, stress, tiredness, hormone changes (e.g. menstruation) and illness (e.g. a cold).

Signs and symptoms

Most cold sores occur on or next to the lips. Sometimes they occur on the nose, on the chin or in the mouth.

A person usually gets their cold sores in the same area each time.

There are usually four main stages of a cold sore: • Tingle – a tingling, burning or itching feeling around the lips or nose, starting a few hours to 48 hours before the cold sore appears.

• Blisters – a red, painful lump appears which turns into small, painful, fluid-filled blisters. The blisters may last a few days.

• Weeping – the blisters burst and fluid weeps out. The virus can easily be spread to other people at this stage.

Page 26 > The Local > February 2024

• Scab – the cold sore dries up and forms a scab, which can be itchy and painful.

How are cold sores spread?

Cold sores spread easily. A person can catch the herpes virus if their skin touches a cold sore, fluid from a cold sore, or saliva from a person who has the virus. A person with a cold sore may transfer the virus to another person or to another part of their own body (e.g. eyes or genitals). Sometimes the herpes virus can be passed on when no sore is present, because the virus may be lying dormant in saliva or the lips.

Treatment

There are a number of treatments for cold sores.

Different stages and symptoms of a cold sore may need different treatments. Antiviral medicines (e.g. aciclovir, famciclovir, penciclovir, valaciclovir) There is no medicine that can cure cold sores. Antiviral medicines can help to reduce the symptoms. You can get antiviral cold sore creams and tablets from a pharmacist without a prescription.

Other cold sore products

Some other products which may help to manage cold sores are:creams to reduce itching and pain; antiseptic ointments and paints to work against viruses and bacteria; pain-relieving medicines (e.g.paracetamol, ibuprofen); cold sore wound patches to protect and help healing; complementary medicines (e.g.lysine).

Self care

• Try to find and avoid things that trigger your cold sores.

• Follow the instructions carefully when using cold sore medicines.

• Do not get cold sore product in your eyes or inside your mouth.

• Do not break blisters or ‘pick’ a scab, as this will slow healing and increase the risk of bacterial infection.

• Hold an ice-cold compress on thecold sore – it may reduce the pain.

Stop cold sores spreading

While you have a cold sore: Do not touch your cold sore except when applying a cold sore product. Do not let other people touch your cold sore, or your saliva (e.g. during kissing, hugging or sex). Do not touch your (or anyone else’s) eyes or genitals after touching your cold sore. Do not share cold sore cream with others. Do not share eating or drinking utensils, toothbrushes, towels, face cloths, razors or lipstick.

Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing.

Wash your hands often, especially before and after touching your cold sore. www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Community Group Notices CHILDREN & FAMILIES

HOBBIES & INTERESTS

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/

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 FRIENDSHIP - COFFEE - LUNCH - CHAT GROUP A new group is commencing in March for people who have experienced the death of a husband, wife or partner in recent years. The first gathering is planned for Monday 4 March commencing at 10.30am at Blackbutt Hotel Orchardtown Road New Lambton. Join us for a coffee or drink and a chat to get to know each other, then stay on for lunch. The group is purely a means of meeting with like minded people, in a safe and comfortable space, both non-religious and noncounselling. Contact Margaret on 4952 7814 for more details or to register your interest.

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 at The Mark Hotel on Wednesday 14 February at 5.30pm. For more information email: lambtonresidents@gmail. com or call Angela on 0422 633 737.

HUNTER ANIMAL WATCH Hunter Animal Watch offers subsidised pet desexing for dogs and cats belonging to pensioners and health card holders. Phone 4961 6133 between 10am and 4pm Tuesday to Friday

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

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 SENIORS GROUPS GROUPS 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 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.

To have a free community notice published on these pages email the details to admin@hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

The Local > February 2024 > Page 27

DO GOOD Join Vinnies

Become a Vinnies Member and make a difference in your local community JOIN TODAY. Visit www.vinnies.org.au Email maitland.newcastle@vinnies.org.au Call 0490 255 100

Page 28 > The Local > February 2024

www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Trades and Service Directory

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BUILDING SERVICES

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Lic L009753 • ARC Approved

Call Shane for a free quote

0425 251 607

0423 306 897

newcastlerefrigeration.com

Fully insured and licensed BLN 258607C

HANDYMAN

GARDEN CONSULT.

HORTICULTURAL CONSULT + DESIGN SERVICES • Onsite advice service • Plant positioning & location • Lawn problems, plant disease & pest diagnosis • Soil testing analysis • General garden & plant concerns • Horticultural spraying & treatment • Indoor plant & apartment 30+ balcony design YEARS

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experience

LEGAL SERVICES

PLUMBER

Making legal easy

Your Local Plumber

Michael’s

MOWING & HANDYMAN

20 years experience

Providing a wide range of quality residential and commercial property maintenance services. ä pressure washing ä landscaping ä mowing ä doors ä fencing ä installation ä general repairs ä decking ä gardens ä and much more

0419 480 185

michael@mowingandhandyman.com.au mowingandhandyman.com.au

• Traffic • Criminal • Family • Wills • Litigation • Commercial • Employment • Conveyancing

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

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ROOF & GUTTER

ADVERTISE HERE

POOL MAINTENANCE Our Quality Service

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

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(02) 4957 3616

Your local pool care experts

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

Tile & Metal Roof Restoration Specialists Call for a FREE quote…

0422 927 640

or email info@newcastleroofandgutter.com.au

GET YOUR MESSAGE

OUT THERE! Reach more than 11,000 local homes and businesses each and every month when you advertise in Newcastle’s favourite little community newspaper…

Call Mark on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal.com.au

The Local > February 2024 > Page 29

Local Classifieds...

NOTICES

ANNIVERSARY

BRAITH’S SMALL APPLIANCE REPAIRS Almost anything repaired from video players to vacuums, tables to typewriters. Specialising in Dyson vacuums. We normally have reconditioned, many asnew, Dyson vacuums for sale too. Phone Braith to see if we can fix it for you. Ph 4952 2352

Congratulations Patricia and Barry Binns (nee Barnes) of New Lambton on their 60th Wedding Anniversary

Gentle Flow Yoga Married at Sacred Heart Cathedral Hamilton on 4th January 1964

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Now is the best time to start!

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 warmer months and enjoy the benefits of a gentle yoga practice. Welcome beginners and seniors, suitable for most ages.

Gift vouchers available.

Inquiries and bookings: Michelle Pirie

0400 790 479 (Dip Yoga Teaching IYTA)

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LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS Email yours to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of the month

Heartmoves Gentle exercises Seated or standing Suitable for seniors Mondays 10.30-11.15 Wednesdays 11.10 -11.55

Kotara Bowling Club 2 Howell Street Kotara Lorraine 0411 422 300 Lorraine.norton88@bigpond.com

MATINEE TICKETS FOR NEWCASTLE THEATRE CO. IN 2024

Saturday 10 February 2.00 pm.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in Night-time; Saturday 23 March 2.00 pm; Cat on a Hot Tin Roof; Saturday 6 April 2.00pm Naked and Screaming. All tickets $30 pp for bookings Ph 4952 8590 WANTED TO BUY Old beer labels, cigarette packets and tobacco tins phone Gary Ph 0401 526 093 www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Classifieds...

NOTICES

NOTICES

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES The Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre (MNC) is a not-for-profit organisation, based in Lambton, which provides a range of services for multicultural individuals, families and communities within the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGAs. The MNC is seeking volunteers for the following roles: 1) English class volunteer: to teach English to a diverse group of migrants and refugees. We are particularly interested in people who have teaching skills.

Retired teachers and or people with previous experience are encouraged to apply.

Classes at the MNC are friendly for adult migrants and refugees to practise their spoken English every Tuesday and Wednesday between 10 am to 1 pm during school terms.

2) Playgroup volunteer: As part of a team the volunteer’s role is to assist setting up play equipment, welcome the families, participate in play (role play) if required, set up arts and craft, facilitate connection between families, help clean and pack away all play equipment at the end of each session. The Multicultural playgroup increase carers’ knowledge of child development and early childhood learning, provide parents / carers access to information and resources provide volunteering opportunities, and supporting the development and wellbeing of children and their parents / carers by creating an opportunity for parents / carers to meet and share experiences, and for children to play, learn and socialise.

The Playgroup run every Friday between 10 am and 12 Noon during school terms.

Key requirements include - Enthusiasm, commitment, and the drive for personal development.

- Previous experience preferred but not essential.

- Police and working with children check essential.

These volunteering opportunities would not suit people who cannot commit to a weekly time slot. For inquiries or to apply email: amany@mncinc.org.au by 16th February 2024.

WORK WANTED

Semi-retired Registered Nurse available for respite care I have over 40 years experience in nursing. I am looking for a job helping someone in their home who needs care. Duties may include light housekeeping, showering, taking to appointments, shopping, or just providing some respite to a full-time carer. I am very responsible and have a lot of experience with dementia. Salary is $30 per hour with a minimum 2 hour engagement.

References are available. Call Katy on 0406 926 729 or email katygoura@hotmail.co.uk

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

Name _____________________________ Address _________________________________ ____________________________________________ Phone _________________________ Email_____________________________Write the wording of your advertisement below.

(Max. 25 words please) Text: __________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ Classification (eg. For Sales, Notices, Garage Sales, Wanted etc):__________________ Complete this form and post it to: ‘Local Classifieds’ PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 or email: admin@hunterlocal. com.au by 15th of the month. We reserve the right to not publish advertising considered inappropriate or not in the spirit of the free classifieds offer. Private party ads only. For business classifieds advertising please email admin@ hunterlocal.com.au

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > February 2024 > Page 31

We can reproduce personalised medicine for you…

Mass-produced medications are for the masses, not the individual, and create a large therapeutic void. When your commercial medications are inappropriate, yield unsatisfactory results, or are no longer available, Piggott’s Pharmacy can help.

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

Are you unable to swallow your pill or need medicine in an alternate form eg patients who have difficulty swallowing a pill may find it easier to take their medication in a pleasantly flavoured liquid form, or prefer a capsule to a pill?

Compounding allows a medication to be personalised for an individual patient.

Benefits of Pharmacy Compounding include: ª making medication easier to for patients to use ª access to discontinued medications ª allowing alternative dosage forms ª creating medication allergy-friendly ª adapting the flavour of some medications ª customised medication for your animals At Piggott’s Pharmacy Lambton, we can reproduce personalised medicine for you.

Enquire instore at your local Piggott’s Pharmacy today PIGGOTT’S BLACKBUTT PHARMACY

PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY HAMILTON

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

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

105 Elder Street, Lambton Phone: 4957 3630

400 Glebe Road, Merewether Phone: 4969 1978

Page 32 > The Local > February 2024

ª www.piggottspharmacy.com.au ª

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