Clean Up coming
In 2025, Australia’s longest running and largest national day of environmental action, Clean Up Australia Day, will celebrate 35 years of bringing local communities together to Clean Up and help to improve and conserve our environment. To commemorate this milestone, Clean Up Australia is calling on all Aussies to register for the 2025 event which will be held on Sunday March 2 and join their local communities in making this year the biggest one yet. Lambton Park, and the Kerrai (creek) which runs through it, will again benefit from a Clean Up Australia Day event this year.
(continued on page 5)
Sonia Hornery MP joined Angela Smith and Dianne Orlandi of Lambton Residents Group at Clean Up Day in Lambton Park in 2024
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LOCAL Matters
with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local
Small world
As a family we have enjoyed some regular overseas travel in recent years. We’ve visited some truly amazing places. And our desire to see more and more of the world has not diminished.
We have particularly enjoyed taking small group tours to foreign places with itineraries that are created with families with school age kids in mind. So far these ‘family tours’ have been a hit with all of us. The kids make new friends, often from other countries. The adults too meet new people and enjoy their company whilst seeing captivating destinations. There’s usually a good balance of fast-paced sightseeing days, hands-on cultural activities and some more relaxed family time. And the best thing is all the travel details are taken care of.
The company we book our tours through is Australian. So it’s no surprise really to meet at least one other Australian family each time we take one of these tours. Usually we are joined by one or two other family groups from other countries. Over recent years we have met families from all over the world including Canada, Indonesia, Germany and the USA.
On the first day, once families have arrived at the tour departure point hotel, there’s a meeting. You meet the local tour group leader. It’s also a chance for the families to introduce themselves to the group.
Last month, as we set out on a two-week tour in South East Asia, we met a family who were not only from Australia, not just from Newcastle, but from the same suburb we live in. We had not met before, but we actually live less than 400 metres from each other. It is indeed a very small world that we live in!
Happy new year for new citizens
A scientist passionate about the environment was one of 170 new citizens to pledge commitment at City of Newcastle’s first citizenship ceremony of 2025.
Originally from Germany, Laura Stapp has had to navigate multiple visas since moving to Australia in 2016, but a change in the law has allowed her to embrace her identity as both German and Australian.
Laura says she’s looking forward to enjoying the opportunities and enjoying the sense of belonging her new status brings.
“It’s an end to a long journey, it’s just nice to get there finally. It’s a bit of peace of mind. I look forward to the fact that I’ll be able to vote, it’s important to me,” Mrs Stapp said.
“Newcastle has a lot to offer, the proximity to beautiful places for camping and the welcoming community make it a wonderful place to live.”
Laura first came to Australia in 2015 to complete her PhD in marine science at Port Stephens where she met her now husband Kyle at the local fisheries.
The couple now live in Maryville with their two sons who have been dual citizens since birth.
Laura works as a scientist with the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water, and is passionate about contributing to her community and embracing her new home, while staying connected to her German roots.
This connection is especially important to her as a parent, as she volunteers at the Little German School in Kotara, where she introduces her sons to German language and culture.
Presiding over his first citizenship ceremony, Newcastle Lord mayor Ross Kerridge
congratulated the new citizens and reflected on the city’s diversity.
“It’s fantastic to welcome such a diverse group of people to our city and celebrate every one of their unique journeys,” Cr Kerridge said.
Newcastle is a multicultural hub, with 15 per cent of its population born overseas and more than 80 languages spoken throughout the community.
Our newest citizens hail from countries around the globe, ranging from Cambodia, Egypt, France, Latvia, Pakistan, Syria, and Uruguay.
Steve Sue Scott
Lord Mayor Ross Kerridge outside Newcastle City Hall alongside new citizen Laura Stapp, her husband Kyle and their son Oscar.
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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
Clean Up day
(continued from front page)
Lambton Residents Group is again hosting the event.
Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia says “Clean Up Australia has a rich history of mobilising Australians to take practical action to clear up the mass amount of litter and waste that makes its way into our beautiful waterways and other natural surroundings. We know that 35 years on from when my father, Ian Kiernan, started this iconic organisation, our fight against litter is nowhere near over, but we also know that as a society we need to shift our habits to consider litter prevention and best practice to stop it from entering our environment in the first place.”
Mark Brooker, Ward 3 councillor and coordinator/ supervisor of the Lambton Park Clean Up event for the fifth year said “We have a beautiful park that we can all be proud of. And we know it’s clean and tidy most days.”
“But it’s inevitable with such a popular public space, that hosts so many community and sports events each year, that some litter will be left behind. It’s especially important that we keep the creek banks and edges clear of rubbish.” He said.
The Clean Up event at Lambton Park will run from 9.30 until about 10.45am on Sunday 2 March. Meet at the picnic tables, under the fig trees opposites Flamingos Live (formerly Lizotte’s).
To register go to www.cleanupaustraliaday.org. au/register/, hit the ‘Join a Clean Up’ button and search ‘Lambton’. Or you can just show up on the day and register.
The Local Quiz
Congratulations to December’s quiz winner, Trish Vegar of Lambton. Trish has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy.
Last month’s mystery photo was taken at Lambton Public School.
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 - What date is Clean Up Australia Day this year?
Question 2 - Where is Whitegates Reserve?
Question 3 - What is the title of Newcastle Theatre Company’s first production of the 2025 season?
Question 4 - How many new citizens were welcomed at a ceremony at Newcastle City Hall in late January?
Question 5 - Where is the building, pictured at right, located?
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 14 February for a chance to win a $25 gift voucher* to spend at any Piggott’s Pharmacy store in Newcastle and the Hunter.
• We use the latest technology to detect any problems early, so that they can be prevented. • Thorough and professional assessment by our experienced podiatrists.
• Feet with diabetes need a checkup at least once a year to keep them on track.
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: Wednesday 5 February 4.30pm-6pm Saturday 8 February 10am - 12pm Wednesday 12 February 4.30pm - 6pm Saturday 15 February 10am - 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 registration.playfootball.com.au/signin
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 14 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.
First in best dressed with the choice of vouchers. The vouchers must be claimed by 14 February and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 31 March 2025.
Congratulations to the residents of 20 Astbury St New Lambton, 46 Summit St New Lambton and 67a Durham Rd Lambton who each claimed a prize by correctly identifying their letterboxes in December.
NTC’s Season 2025 begins
Newcastle Theatre Company’s 2025 Season commences this month with Martin McDonagh’s Hangmen
It’s 1965, and capital punishment has just been abolished in the UK. In a dingy pub in the north of England, the landlord, Harry, who until recently was known as ‘the second-best hangman in Britain’ holds court.
Surrounded by a motley crew of sycophants and hangerson, he relishes the celebrity his profession has brought him.
His wife works behind the bar. Neither of them seems to notice that their anxious, awkward tennage daughter is ripe for exploitation.
The arrival of a mysterious stranger from London creates an
atmosphere toxic with suspicion. And when Harry’s arch-rival turns up, the clash of egos is both brutal and desperately sad.
This brilliant, funny and wildly off-beat play, from the acclaimed writer of in Bruges, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, and The Lieutenant of Inishmore, is a stinging condemnation of state-sanctioned murder delivered with furious, macabre humour.
It won the 2016 Olivier Award for Best New Play.
Newcastle Theatre Company’s production of Hangmen, directed by Patrick Campbell, opens on Saturday 15 February at 7.30pm.
Evening performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights until 1 March.
Matinees performances are at 2pm on Sunday 16, Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 February.
Tickets can be purchased online at newcastletheatrecompany. com.au or by calling 4952 4958.
The Local has a double pass to the winner’s choice of performance of Hangmen
To be in the running for the double pass just text the word ‘Hangmen’, your first and last name, and your preferred performance day/time to 0455 210 000 by Wednesday 12 February.
The winner will be advised by phone and their name published in next month’s issue of The Local
Discover Grainfed Brewing Co.
Have you visited this little hidden gem, tucked away in Young Rd Lambton? You will be pleasantly surprised when you walk down the hand painted hall way to enter a venue that has been compared to the bars of Melbourne.
Grainfed Brewing Company was established in 2012, and opened the Lambton venue in June 2023. This family-owned and operated establishment has become a vibrant venue for the local community, offering a welcoming space for gatherings and events. With a function room available, it caters to various occasions, from birthdays to corporate meetings.
Grainfed Brewing serves 12 fresh, on-tap beers, brewed on-site, proudly showcasing a diverse range of flavors that appeal to all beer enthusiasts. In addition to their beers, they offer a selection of wines, alongside delicious pizzas and toasties to compliment the drinking experience.
Grainfed Brewing embodies the spirit of “think local, drink local,” fostering a community-minded atmosphere where local residents can come together to enjoy great food and drinks. Take away food and beers available.
Grainfed Brewing Company fosters a community-minded atmosphere where locals gather to enjoy great food and drinks
Check out how to find Grainfed Brewing Company and their opening hours below.
Mention this article to get 20% off a tasting paddle when you visit.
SWIMART NEW LAMBTON REGUULAR POOL MAINTENANCE & SERVICING
Operating since 2004
Hassle-free pool ownership! Let us worry about your pool so you can be doing more fun things!
Our Quality Service
What is included:
• Water testing and chemical balancing*
• Empty all skimmer baskets and pump baskets
• Check equipment for proper operation and leaks
• Scoop and clean surface for all debris
Our service can be scheduled fortnightly, monthly or bi-monthly!
• Backwash and rinse filter
• Check and clean salt cell
• Brush and vacuum pool surface and tile line
• Cartridge filter cleaning and maintenance
Terms and conditions apply. *Chemicals at an additional cost, if required. Green pools or equipment repairs will be quoted before work commences.
All invited to shared lunch
A series of monthly lunches, celebrating the cultural diversity of our local community, will be held at Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre during 2025. Each lunch, held on the first Thursday of each month, will showcase a different culture. The events are free and are organised in partnership with the Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre at Lambton and with support from City of Newcastle. The first Shared Table lunch in December featured sumptuous Syrian cuisine. The February event will have a South American theme.
Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre coordinator Elizabeth Hyslop said ”The concept behind The Shared Table project is to introduce people to the cuisine of other cultures in our area. The lunches
Members of the local Syrian community with representatives from Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre and Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre at The Shared Table lunch in December
are designed as a ‘taster’ of that cuisine.”
Community members interested in attending the March, April, May or June evnts are invited to contact
Julie’s
SEATED MASSAGE
Elizabeth Hyslop via email: elizabethh@thecanopy.org.au or phone 4950 2365 or 0449 947 721. Numbers are limited so a random draw may apply.
The Shared Table
In 2025 we will be hosting several monthly community lunches to celebrate the cultural diversity of Jesmond and surrounds.
Community members will cook and share unique cultural dishes and cooking tips from their country of origin. Each lunch will showcase a different culture and will be FREE
The lunches will be held at 12.00 at Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre (44 Mordue Pde)
UPCOMING DATES FOR 2025
There are a limited number of places available at each lunch, so we will hold a ballot to select attendees. See below *
To register your interest, please contact Elizabeth elizabethh@thecanopy.org.au 4950 2365 or 0449 947 721
* Bookings
Please let us know if you wish to attend and we will randomly select people from those who expressed interest. If you don’t get selected the first time, we will try to ensure you get selected next time. We want everyone to have the opportunity to join in! You can register as an individual or as a couple. Children under 6 are welcome to join you and do not need to register.
Home-Start calls for volunteers
A not for profit charity committed to promoting the welfare of families with young children under five years requires more volunteers to meet demand for its services.
Home-Start Newcastle, a New Lambton based service that co-ordinates the recruitment, training and matching of volunteers with families has more young families requesting support than there are volunteers available.
“Home-Start volunteers are normally parents themselves. They offer their time freely to support families as they move towards increased confidence and independence” said Michelle McDonell CEO of Home-Start Australia Inc.
“Our volunteers offer a listening ear, friendship and practical help.
This support can help greatly in the prevention of family crisis and breakdown.” she added.
We are particularly hoping to get volunteers from the Newcastle and western Lake Macquarie areas. Michelle said.
The next Home-Start Volunteer
Preparation Course, which runs one day per week for seven weeks, commences Thursday 27 February.
For further information about the volunteer preparation course please contact Kat on 0456 625 807 or email programs@ homestartaustralia.org
4
We
Our
Here to HELP
with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape
Being at the table
Dear Here to Help,
I am the CEO of a professional association. A constant frustration with government decisions is that they don’t talk to us – the profession – before they make their decisions.
Government “consultation” is often after the fact and our input then doesn’t seem to change much. This means that we spent a lot of time working around and/or trying to undo government decisions that could have been so much better… if only they had spoken to us earlier on.
How do we become part of government’s decision-making process?
Thank you for your query.
You are not the only one who feels that government decisions and decision-making can be as obscure as trying to decipher the ingredients of a magical potion in a fantasy series!
Let’s take a closer look at government decisionmaking. Here are some elements that go into the decision “potion”:
• media and social media pressures
• internal government politics
• known facts for government workers in your area
• research by those same workers
• input from trusted advisers
The role of associations who wish to influence and improve government decisions comes down to these last three dot points. You can help ensure better informed government workers whose job includes your profession. You do this by becoming a trusted adviser.
How to become a trusted adviser? As the ad said, “it won’t happen overnight, but it will happen” with the right ingredients. Think of yourself – how does someone gain your trust? It’s through building a mutual relationship, which you both benefit from, over time.
How do I do it? Set up regular meetings, where you share key information. By helping government better understand your profession (including the bits you aren’t proud of), you are building trust. This way, they are more likely to let you know of upcoming issues, ahead of time. And you can help correct any misconceptions early in the process.
The more you invest in your government relationships, the more likely you will have a solid seat at government’s table going forward.
Good luck!
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 4.45pm Saturday 7.30am to 11.45am
Hey neighbour!
Mary Batkovic
Within minutes of arriving at Mary Batkovic’s Lambton home, she had offered this journalist a tea or coffee, a tempting tray of sweets, and a homegrown cucumber fresh from her garden. It was an instant glimpse of Mary’s warm, caring, and animated personality as a mother, sister, grandmother, and an active community volunteer. Mary migrated to Australia from Croatia with her parents in 1970 when she was 13, after her sixyear-old sister was tragically killed in a car accident.
They were among the first wave of post-World War II migrants to do so – many in search of better job opportunities for their families.
Arriving at the old migrant hostel in Mayfield West, Mary’s parents sought to build a community through the local church.
“I remember the struggles they went through to try and establish a church they felt comfortable in,” Mary reflected. “We spoke no English and language was a barrier; there were no interpreters, and they didn’t really fit in anywhere.”
Together, her family and the local Croatian community bought the Croatian Catholic Church, St Joseph’s, in Tighes Hill in 1974 and renovated it. “A lot of sweat and labour went into it,” Mary added.
As their flock grew, and Mary got married, they decided to put down roots in Australia.
In recent years, since her parents passed away, and especially since she retired in 2022, Mary has been heavily involved in the church’s upkeep and caring for its aging congregation, raising money and organising social events and pilgrimages.
On top of this, Mary is an avid supporter of the Croatian Wickham Sports Club and regularly volunteers at local aged care homes, offering
by Georgia Osland
Mary Batkovic’s warm and caring personality are instantly recognisable.
companionship for elderly residents.
She also developed a vital health services directory for migrants in different languages during her long and successful career with Hunter New England Health in various roles, which included interpreter and multicultural welfare worker.
Her five year old granddaughter, Layla, twin daughter of famed Australian basketballer and Olympian Suzy Batkovic, best described Mary’s generous and resilient nature:
“When I grow up, I’m going to be just like my baka [grandmother]. I’m going to be hardworking, tough, and I’ll speak Croatian, so I know everything.”
Correction: in December edition of Hey Neighbour!, haemophilia patients were incorrectly referred to as cancer patients. Haemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder.
Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here? Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au
Lost names - “White Gates”
THAT WAS THEN This is now
with Lachlan Wetherall
The localities we live in all have names. As new suburbs are built new names arrive, but we are usually unaware of those that have disappeared from our city. “White Gates” for example, formerly described three different locations in Newcastle, each associated with a railway.
1. In 1857 the Governor General opened the Hunter River Railway, which ran from Newcastle to East Maitland. Two miles from Newcastle station the line crossed the Maitland road, and with the erection of a barrier there, by 1864 the
location was known as the “White Gates”. It did not last long, for with increasing rail traffic due to coal cartage, in 1876 the government constructed an overhead road bridge, and the name disappeared.
2. In 1863 the Waratah Coal Company opened a branch line from the Great Northern Railway to their coal workings near Braye Park. In 1871 Lambton and Waratah councils were deciding what should be the principal road between their municipalities. One option was where Kahibah and Bindera Roads currently run, and the spot where this route went over the colliery railway was referred to as the “White Gates” crossing. The colliery closed in 1876, passenger trains ceased in 1887, and with the railway no longer in use the name disappeared.
3. In 1861 the Wallsend Coal Company opened a rail line to their colliery. In 1875 the newspaper reported an accident on the Wallsend line “near the White Gates, about 300 yards from the Cooperative junction.” In 1887 the Newcastle to Wallsend tramway opened, and by 1903 there was a White Gates tram stop where Douglas St crossed the rail and tram lines. In 1944 the Housing Commission resumed 35 acres of land south of the tram stop and built 150 homes for the “White Gates” estate. This eventually morphed into just “Whitegates”, a title that has all but disappeared, with only a public reserve and adjacent apartment block bearing that name today.
You can view other lost place names of Newcastle at lachlanwetherall.com/lostnames
Above: Whitegates Reserve in Wallsend, a remnant marker of one of three locations in Newcastle formerly known as “White Gates”. OpenStreetMap.
Right: Map from a 1939 real estate poster, showing the White Gates tram stop at Douglas St, Wallsend. National Library of Australia.
Book Review
Sponsored by Q’s Books
Tracy Chevalier
I have had the pleasure of discovering a new author and one I would recommend to readers who enjoy historical fiction.
Tracy Chevalier has written many novels and each has a different theme, well researched and interesting. Through clear and fascinating prose Tracy crafts intriguing stories around her historical research. Some of her characters are created from real people who lived in the era of her stories.
Here are three I have read:
The Glassmaker tells the story of a family of glassmakers in Murano, Italy in the 15th century. The story cleverly transports the reader through the centuries to the present day. Tracy’s detailed descriptions of Murano and Venice through the centuries will be appreciated by those who know that to this day Venice has retained most of the features of the old city of long ago.
Remarkable Creatures explores 19th century palaeontology and its attitude to the wonderful discoveries of Mary Anning on a beach in Lime Regis, Dorset in the UK. The novel is based on the unlikely relationship between Mary, an uneducated working class girl and Elizabeth Philpot, an unmarried fellow fossil enthusiast.
Girl with a Pearl Earring is set in 17th century Delft, Holland and was inspired by the painter Johannes Vermeer’s painting of that name. The story is set around the painter Vermeer and his painting and Griet, a maid employed in the family who becomes his model for the painting.
I look forward to reading more of Tracy’s books which are easy to read and enthralling.
By Carylyn Lightfoot
MONEY Matters
with Dominic Brown from Nest Financial Solutions
Compound interest
It is one of the miracles of the financial world and something which Albert Einstein once described as the 8th wonder of the world – compound interest.
Compound interest is simply the interest on previous years interest. Earnings are generated from your savings and these are then reinvested to generate their own earnings.
The growth starts out small but slowly gains momentum and over time can snowball into a seriously impressive amount. Obviously the sooner you start, the longer the compounding interest can work for you and the more remarkable the results.
For example, if I were to invest a $10,000 lump sum for my 10 year old son, Will, into a share fund then, assuming a 7% return each year, he could have around $320,000 when he turns 60.
However if I waited until his 20th birthday to make the $10,000 investment then he would only have about half this amount. He will have missed out on 10 years of compounding returns.
It is effectively the same with retirement savings and superannuation. The sooner your start, the more the miracle of compounding takes effect and the better the results.
You don’t necessarily have to have a huge sum of money to begin with. A small sum of money regularly invested over time can also produce results. The important thing is the sooner your money is working for you, the more the benefits of compound interest start to take effect.
GENERAL ADVICE WARNING – This article is merely intended to be education 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 and obligation free chat.
LAW Matters
by Monique Reed from Newcastle Legal
Enduring Guardian and Power of Attorney
While most people understand the importance of having a Will, many are unaware of the significance of appointing an Enduring Guardian and Power of Attorney to assist with crucial decision-making. Your Power of Attorney has authority to manage your legal and financial affairs when you need assistance either temporarily because of a crisis or on an ongoing basis when it becomes physically difficult to do so yourself or mentally challenging. Your Enduring Guardian has authority to make medical and lifestyle decisions on your behalf when you need assistance, including for example choices about Aged Care.
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Unlike a Will which only comes into effect upon your death, these important legal powers function while you are alive. They prove essential when decisions need to be made or actions taken in your best interests.
A lawyer must ensure that you have the necessary capacity to understand the effect of appointing your Attorney or Enduring Guardian before you do so. The lawyer must also be satisfied that you are acting without coercion or undue influence.
People often find themselves caught in the position of not having appointed their choice of Enduring Guardian or Attorney during a temporary crisis or before they experience significant mental decline. This is why it is so important to execute these legal documents while you have capacity and before you need someone to assist you with decision-making. We often receive enquiries from loved ones seeking to support an elderly relative impacted by cognitive decline in managing their financial affairs. The only option once an individual does not have sufficient capacity is an application to the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT) in Sydney for a guardianship or financial management order. This legal process creates significant additional stress in an already challenging season of life.
VET Chat
with Dr Cassy Macpherson of Elder St Vets
Heartworm in dogs
A reminder that heartworm prevention is still as important as ever.
As a pet owner, one of the most important things you can do for your dog’s health is to protect them from heartworm disease. Heartworms are parasitic worms that live in a dog’s heart and lungs, and they can cause severe damage to vital organs if left untreated.
The problem is, heartworms are transmitted by mosquitoes, which means your dog is at risk no matter where you live.
Heartworm disease is especially concerning because it often shows no symptoms until the damage is done. In some cases, pets may exhibit coughing, fatigue, weight loss, or difficulty breathing, but these signs can easily be mistaken for other conditions. By the time symptoms appear, the worms may have caused irreversible damage to your dog’s heart and lungs. The damage may be so severe that it can be fatal.
The good news is heartworm disease is entirely preventable with monthly medication and even an annual injection. There are many effective heartworm preventatives on the market, including chewables, topicals, and even injectable options. These medications kill the larvae before they can mature into adult worms, keeping your dog safe.
At Elder Street Vets, we always emphasize the importance of routine heartworm prevention. Monthly heartworm preventatives work very well but must be given monthly. So if you struggle to remember a monthly treatment then the annual injection is probably the best option.
Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Protect your dog from the risks of heartworm disease with regular prevention. Your furry friend’s health is worth the effort!
PHARMACY Matters
by Anthony Piggott of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Hamilton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether
Gout
Gout is a common and very painful type of arthritis. It occurs when uric acid crystals form in and around a joint. It mainly affects men over 40 years of age. Gout can usually be well controlled with medicines and changes to diet.
Uric acid (urate) is one of the body’s waste products. If uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, it can settle in and around joints as crystals. Uric acid crystals can irritate the joint, causing inflammation (swelling) and pain. People who get gout usually have a high level of uric acid in their blood. Gout usually begins in one joint, most often the big toe joint, but it can affect the foot, ankle, knee, hand, wrist, elbow or any other joints.
Signs and symptoms
A gout attack usually comes on suddenly, often overnight. Common symptoms are:
• joint inflammation, with swelling, redness and heat
• a very tender and painful joint, which is sensitive to touch. Sometimes even the weight of a bed sheet can cause severe pain.
If a fever is also present, it is important to get medical advice as soon as possible. Without treatment, a gout attack usually lasts one to two weeks. After the first gout attack, more attacks are likely to occur.
The time between gout attacks can be days, weeks, months or years. If gout is not managed correctly, the time between attacks may get shorter, attacks may last longer and more joints may be affected. Repeated gout attacks can permanently damage joints, and may also lead to the formation of kidney stones.
Risk factors
Some people are more likely to get gout than others. Factors that may play a role in causing gout
include:
• a family history of gout
• drinking too much alcohol, particularly beer
• being overweight or overeating
• joint injury or surgery
• some medical conditions (e.g. high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, kidney disease) • some medicines (e.g. fluid tablets, cancer chemotherapy)
• crash dieting or fasting
• not drinking enough fluids
• eating foods that increase uric acid in the blood
• people of Maori or Pacific Islander origin are more likely to have high uric acid levels.
Foods linked to gout
Foods high in purines may increase uric acid levels in blood. Some of these foods have been linked to gout attacks. They include:
• meat, especially red meat and offal (e.g. liver, kidneys, heart)
• seafood, especially shellfish, scallops, mussels, sardines, herrings, mackerel, anchovies
• foods containing yeast (e.g. beer, Vegemite).
Medicines
There are two types of gout medicine – ‘gout reliever’ medicines to relieve attacks and ‘gout preventer’ medicines to prevent attacks.
Relieving attacks
Medicines that reduce pain and swelling are used to relieve gout attacks. ‘Gout reliever’ medicines should be started at the first sign of symptoms and taken until the attack has settled, or for as long as directed by your doctor. Taking your ‘gout reliever’ medicine at the first sign of a gout attack can help to reduce the length and severity of the attack. Ask a doctor or pharmacist for information and advice. Medicines that can relieve gout attacks include:
• anti-inflammatory pain relievers (e.g. diclofenac, ibuprofen, indomethacin)
• colchicine
• corticosteroids (e.g. prednisolone, prednisone). Aspirin should not be used for pain relief during a gout attack, as the doses needed for pain relief can increase the uric acid level in blood. Low-dose aspirin can usually be continued – check with your doctor or pharmacist.
Preventing attacks
Gout preventer medicines help to prevent gout attacks by lowering uric acid blood levels. They can help uric acid crystals to dissolve, stop new crystals
forming and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
• Allopurinol is the medicine most often prescribed by doctors to prevent gout. Probenecid is sometimes used instead.
• A ‘gout preventer’ must be taken every day, whether or not you have any symptoms. It should be continued during a gout attack.
• A ‘gout preventer’ will not relieve the symptoms of a gout attack. If ‘preventer’ treatment is started during an attack, it can make gout symptoms worse. Treatment with a ‘gout preventer’ usually starts after gout symptoms have settled.
• Gout attacks may continue for a few months after starting a ‘gout preventer’. Your doctor may advise you to also take a ‘gout reliever’ medicine during this time.
• Treatment with a ‘gout preventer’ is usually lifelong. If treatment is stopped suddenly, gout may worsen.
Self care
A gout attack can often be self managed. To help reduce pain caused by an attack:
• start a ‘gout reliever’ medicine at the first sign of a gout attack. Ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice.
• hold an ice pack against the inflamed joint to
ease pain until medicines start to work. Apply an ice pack for 20 minutes, then remove and allow the joint to return to normal temperature before applying again.
• protect and rest the inflamed joint. Keep the joint raised whenever possible, to reduce swelling. It is possible to reduce attacks through sensible lifestyle changes. Here are some tips:
• Limit alcohol intake to no more than 10 standard drinks per week, with no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day.
• Drink enough water every day to satisfy your thirst and to keep your urine ‘light-coloured’ (unless a doctor advises you not to).
• Have a healthy diet. Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, wholegrain/ wholemeal foods, protein-rich foods (e.g. nuts, lean meats, fish, eggs, beans) and low-fat dairy foods every day. Limit foods high in fat, sugar or salt.
• Limit or avoid foods that trigger your gout.
• Keep to a healthy weight
• Don’t smoke
• Exercise at a moderate level for at least 30 minutes on all or most days of the week.
Local Community Group Notices
COMMUNITY GROUPS
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 12 February at 5.30pm. For more information call Angela on 0422 633 737.
LIFE CHANGES GATHERING
will celebrate their 1st birthday on Monday 3 March from 10,30am at the Blackbutt Hotel Orchardtown Road, New Lambton. This group was formed in 2024 for those who have lost a Wife, Husband, or Partner through death. It’s purely social, not religious, no counselling, just friendship with those who have endured that same huge loss. We meet for Coffee or Drink from 10.30am to 11am. Then move into the Dining Room, for announcements, Candle Reflection, and whatever else has been prepared. A warm welcome awaits you. For further details contact Margaret Ph 4952 7814
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD NSW NEWCASTLE BRANCH
We are a group of embroiderers who meet every Monday AM and PM at the Church of the Good Shepherd Hall, 101 Joslin Street Kotara. Parking is available on site and in Joslin Street. Our members work on diverse projects and conduct classes. Members have a wealth of knowledge and expertise, which they are willing to share. If you are interested in joining a friendly group of ladies who enjoy various stitching projects, we would love to see you. For any enquiries, please contact us by email: NewcastleEmbroiderersGuild@gmail.com or the website: https://www.embroiderersguildnsw.org. au/Groups/Newcastle-Branch
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
SOCIETY OF ARTISTS NEWCASTLE INC.
Society of Artists Newcastle Inc. is situated in Lambton Park. We have social art groups, workshops and members’ exhibitions. With more than 300 members we cater for many artists in the local area and provide a practicing art community for over a hundred members each week at our rooms. Call Ann-Maree Kelly (president) on 0417 261 891 or go to www.societyofartistsnewcastle. com for further information.
SENIORS GROUPS
NEWCASTLE MEN’S PROBUS CLUB
Newcastle Men’s Probus Club provides great social outings, regular monthly meetings, for Friendship, Fellowship and Fun in retirement. We love to welcome visitors at our meetings. Why not drop into our regular 4th Tuesday of the month meetings at Souths Leagues Club Merewether. You will be warmly welcomed, enjoy some refreshments and a guest speaker. The meetings start at 9:30am - please arrive by 9:15am so we can meet & greet you. We would love to meet you at our next meeting on Tuesday Febraury 25th. Contact Brian Prior on 0415 081 610 or www. newcastleprobus.org
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
SENIORS GROUPS
MIND+MOVE
Keep active and connected with mind+move Jemond, an inclusive wellness group for older adults.Join us every Wednesday from 9–11:30am for a fun and engaging morning. Start with Remain Active at 9am, enjoy Coffee and Chats at 10am, and get creative with Arts & Crafts at 10:30am. Plus, we offer monthly social outings for a great day out. For more details or to join, contact Steph at 0478 282 765 or email steph. long@chcs.com.au. We’d love to see you there!
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
Are you looking for something new to do this year, then come along to Bel Air View Club and join us for friendship, regular activities and interesting guest speakers at our monthly meetings . View stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women . Our meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at South Leagues Club in Merewether at 10. 30 am and we warmly welcome guests and new members to join us in supporting the Smith Family’s learning for life programme which assists young disadvantaged Australian school children to create a better future for themselves through education. If you would like any further information , please phone Gillian on 4963 5655
SENIORS GROUPS
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
This is an invitation to join 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 Marjorie 0416 191 667
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.
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 Classifieds...
FOR SALE
BUDGERIGARS
Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15 Ph 0456 919 046
CHAIRS
4 cream plastic chairs with pads, lattice design, great condition $20 each. Ph 0492 938 878
MOBILITY SCOOTER
Shop Rider mobility scooter. Completely serviced, new batteries and tyres $1800 cash only. Ph 0493 186 514
SIDEBOARD
Classic English sideboard, at least 100 years old, beautiful timber. 1800w x 660d x 1050h. $85 cash. Pick up Mt Hutton Ph 0439 485 939
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.
CROSSWORD SOLUTION FROM PAGE 28
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
HANDYMAN
All painting and gyprock repairs, plus most services in small renovation works. 30 years experience. Insured. Phone Jamie Ph 0423 233 727
HANDYMAN
Available for rubbish removal, shed clearing and yard work. Good rates. Contact Ian Ph 0432 201 121
KEYS FOUND
A bunch of keys was picked up off Wickham Rd New Lambton, between Collatoy Rd & Owens Lane. Includes house keys and a Holden car key Ph 4957 4017
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 $40.00 per hour with a minimum 2 hour engagement. References are available. Call Katy on 0406 926 729 or email katygoura@hotmail.co.uk
Local Classifieds...
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 classMature 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
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. New Friday class starting from February. Begin with others starting out & enjoy the benefits of a gentle yoga practice. Seniors welcome. Gift vouchers available. Inquiries and bookings: Michelle Pirie
0400 790 479
(Dip Yoga Teaching IYTA)
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 as-new, Dyson vacuums for sale too. Phone Braith to see if we can fix it for you. Ph 4952 2352
VIDEO GAMES & CONSOLES
Looking for old video game consoles and games, working or not. Atari, Nintendo, Sega, Xbox, Playstation. If they are cluttering your space message me Ph 0422 701 491
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
SOMETHING TO SELL OR TO TELL? TRY FREE LOCAL COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS. THEY WORK!
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
Protect your baby…
From 3rd February, 2025 eligible pregnant women 28-36 weeks gestation, will be able to receive the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine for free under the National Immunisation Program (NIP).
RSV is a serious disease for newborn babies and it infects their nose, throat, and lungs. It is a leading cause of children going to hospital. Getting a vaccine in pregnancy reduces the risk of severe RSV disease in infants less than 6 months of age by about 70%.
HOW DOES THE VACCINE WORK?
When pregnant women receive the RSV vaccine, they transfer protective antibodies to their baby through the placenta. This protection starts at birth and significantly reduces the risk of severe RSV illness.
58 Orchardtown Rd, New Lambton Phone: 4957 2474
PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY LAMBTON 105 Elder Street, Lambton Phone: 4957 3630