The Local - May 2024

Residents along Turton and Monash Roads and surrounding streets in New Lambton have filled their neighbourhood with protest signs.

They are protesting against the Newcastle Basketball Stadium (a.k.a. Hunter Indoor Sports Centre) proposed for Wallarah and Blackley Ovals. They cite traffic and parking, flooding issues and the loss of green recreation space among the reasons for their opposition. For more on this story and to sign the ePetition to the NSW Legislative Assembly to preserve the ovals as green space turn to pages 10 and 11.

All editorial, advertising and distribution enquiries to Mark Brooker by email: mark@ hunterlocal.com.au or ph 0455 210 000

Mail: PO Box 130 Jesmond, 2299

Founder & publisher: Mark Brooker

Advertising bookings for the June issue will close on Friday 17 May

The Local is lovingly produced then carefully hand delivered each and every month to more than 11,000 residential letterboxes and businesses in Lambton, North Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, Broadmeadow, Hamilton North, Jesmond and Kotara.

You can find back issues of The Local and check out the latest community news and information at: www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au or on our Facebook page @thelocalnewcastle. If you enjoy receiving The Local in your letterbox each month please support the businesses you see advertising on these pages. Without their support your local paper could not and would not happen. Pretty simple really...

....and here’s some fine print

Readers, advertisers and community groups are encouraged to contribute to The Local with news items, community events and any matter of general interest to residents of the area. In contributing news items the contributor accepts that such information may or may not be published in print and/or online using websites and social media channels at the sole discretion of the publisher. No guarantee of publication is ever implied by this invitation to contribute.

Except where noted otherwise, all information, photographs, text and images, within The Local is subject to copyright. Material may not be reproduced and/or distributed in whole or part in any form without the prior, explicit consent of the publisher.

The Local is proudly printed in Newcastle and is 100% recyclable. Please recycle it, but only after you’ve read it!

ABN 48 260 331 896

with Mark Brooker

Publisher of The Local

Thanks for 10 great years

This month marks the 10th anniversary since the first issue of your local community newspaper landed in letterboxes.

Depending on where you have lived and when, you may have known it as Lambton Local, New Lambton Local, Lambton & New Lambton Local, and even Hamilton Local. Since midway through 2018 for simplicity’s sake it has been just The Local.

Whatever banner it has been under it has been an absolute highlight of my working career to be able to publish it for you and the wider community.

The Local isn’t the fastest news service in the world by any means. We only publish once a month. And, once it’s written, it takes close to a week for printing and delivery to take place. We’re happy to leave fast news to the internet and the social media platforms.

The Local isn’t where you go for in depth analysis of the issues. These pages simply aren’t big enough. And, to let you in on a secret, the publisher isn’t really a journalist. We leave the meaty issues to our town’s daily newspaper. And they do it well by the way.

The Local isn’t available everywhere. It’s proudly hyperlocal. We’ve expanded (and contracted) the distribution area a few times over the last decade, but we’ll always deliver for our core readership.

The Local is your community newspaper. We hope other communities have something similar, but this publisher won’t be doing it for them.

We’ve made some stylistic and typographical changes this month just to freshen things up a little. I hope you like the new look.

Thanks for supporting The Local. Whether you’re a reader, an advertiser, a contributor or all of the above, I could not do it without you.

Upgrades on the way for Georgetown

City of Newcastle plans to deliver a significant upgrade to improve pedestrian and cycling accessibility, create a safer environment, provide green space and improve amenity for residents and businesses in Georgetown.

Traffic calming and safety improvement works will kick off in the coming months, with the remainder of the project to provide a new landscaped pedestrian plaza, improved footpaths, upgraded street furniture and lighting, as well as more street trees and landscaping.

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it’s a great outcome for Georgetown.

“Georgetown is rapidly growing with new residential developments that include ground floor commercial opportunities, which will attract more families and business to the area,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Feedback from the community during the public exhibition

of these plans indicated a strong desire to improve the look and feel of the area, enhance pedestrian safety and connectivity, and increase the number of street trees in the area.

“This upgrade project will meet the needs of the Georgetown community to create a safer, more accessible and attractive environment to visit and enjoy.

“A major component of our Local Centres program includes

drainage improvements.”

The early works will support the existing 40km/h zone, with new pedestrian refuges to be installed. The major works include a new public plaza at the intersection of Moate Street and Georgetown Road, which will create an attractive destination to support the shopping precinct while also facilitating safer cycle access between Asher Street and Parkview Street.

Steve Sue Scott

An artist’s impression of the revitalised Georgetown Local Centre

$100 COMPENSATION to participants for time and travel commitments

Scan the QR Code to register your interest or contact Hayley Lewthwaite on (02) 4985 4582 or email Hayley.Lewthwaite@newcastle.edu.au

find out what’s causing your pain and find the best way to fix it. They are also using the latest 3D digital scanning technology to create custom insole/orthoses.

Elder Street loves your mum

Retailers in Elder Street Lambton have once again joined forces to help celebrate Mother’s Day the right way. Spend $20 or more in one transaction at participating stores to receive an entry in the huge Mother’s Day Raffle. Look out for the poster in shop windows along Elder Street to find out where you can receive your entry. There’s plenty of raffle prizes to be won including vouchers from some of your favourite Elder Street businesses.

Remember Mother’s Day is Sunday 12 May. So head on over to Lambton before the raffle is drawn at 10am on Thursday 9 May in Elder Street.

Julie’s

SEATED MASSAGE

Mother’s Day

Seated massage is a perfect way to take a short break to relax and unwind at home or the office.

A specially designed adjustable Massage Chair ensures comfort and support. Simply text and tell me why your special lady would love a 30 MINUTE SEATED MASSAGE

The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner Morea Playford of New Lambton. Morea has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy. Last month’s mystery photo was taken at New Lambton Scout Hall.

This month’s quiz questions are below. You’ll find the answers within the pages of this issue except, of course, the mystery photo.

Question 1 - How many years old is your favourite community newspaper?

Question 2 - Which local suburban centre will be upgraded in coming months?

Question 3 - What is the title of the next production by Newcastle Theatre Company?

Question 4 - In what year did Newcastle hold its last annual military encampment?

Question 5 - On which iconic local structure would you find the wrought iron work 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 17 May 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

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 17 May 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 17 May and redeemed at your chosen retailer no later than 30 June 2024.

Congratulations to the residents of 7 Fleet St New Lambton, 11 Marina Ave New Lambton and 89 Wyong Rd Lambton who each claimed a prize by correctly identifying their letterbox last month.

SWIMART

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

• Backwash and rinse filter

• Check and clean salt cell

• Brush and vacuum pool surface and tile line

• Cartridge filter cleaning and maintenance

monthly or bi-monthly!

Inappropriate development

The inappropriateness of the proposed location for the Hunter Basketball Stadium cannot be understated.

The Wallarah and Blackley Ovals are truly precious green space within a suburb surrounded by growth and development. This project impacts countless people in a negative way and will deeply affect the daily life of many, many local residents. We are part of this group of residents who are passionately opposed to this stadium being built in this location. I am writing to appeal to all readers of The Local who are concerned or curious about this project to join the Save Our Lambton Ovals page on Facebook to be connected to a big friendly community of very concerned locals. Any level of support matters!

Sincerely

Rachael Druitt, Lambton

Data out of date

It is hard not to “laugh out loud” when reading that in 2020 there was an assessment of future sports infrastructure and found that 54% of the Newcastle playing fields were below capacity.

On 25 January 2020 was the first confirmed case of COVID in Australia and on 18 March 2020, was the first lockdown. It’s difficult to believe that a true and accurate assessment would have been carried out in that year.

At the “drop in” information day Saturday 16 March, we were informed that the Wallarah and Blackley ovals were “underutilised” with an assessment carried out between 2016-2020.

Between 2016-2021 the population of Newcastle increased 8.6% with an estimated further growth. (data from City of Newcastle website). There are many more children and adults playing sport every

Wallarah and

Blackley Ovals

day on those fields and the numbers will continue to rise.

Therefore, those figures, pie charts and graphs are out of date.

Another survey needs to be conducted and I’m sure the results would be contrary to what is now being advertised.

Hilary Oliver, New Lambton

A perplexing proposal

It is perplexing that a representative from the City of Newcastle Council stated that many sporting grounds are underused. As a football mum, whose son trains on Wallarah Oval, I know that I am there at least three times a week, more for the kids who do extra training.

We often walk along the cycleway on weekends, and see many families using Wallarah and Blackley Ovals for recreation, kickabouts, and getting children out and about and enjoying the open space.

Our family has also sat in the ovals, along with the rest of the neighbourhood, to enjoy the entertainment from our international artists. It is a multi-use and accessible facility that many generations have had the privilege of using. At the recent ‘consultation’ session at Lambton High School, one of the members of the development

Hearing

team said that anyone can use the proposed complex - they would just have to become paying members of Newcastle Basketball. I think this reflects on the selfish nature of this proposed build, that it is very much for one sport only, despite Newcastle Basketball’s attempt to rebrand as the Hunter Indoor Sports Complex.

One of the objectives of the City of Newcastle’s Parkland and Recreation Strategy is provision of public places for diverse activity and strengthening social connections, as well as creating accessible community facilities for people to meet and connect with one another.

This proposed development on the ovals goes against everything that is required for a community – open spaces, gathering places, and friendly faces.

Michelle Brown, Lambton

Sign the ePetition to the NSW Legislative Assembly to keep Wallarah & Blackley Ovals as green space using this QR code

Newcastle Theatre Co. tickets

The next production in Newcastle Theatre Company’s 2024 Season is Hostage, a clever, new Australian play inspired by the COVID lockdown in Melbourne.

If this was your last day on Earth, what secrets would you reveal?

It’s 10.23am on a Wednesday morning. Two robbers enter a bank in Melbourne’s CBD. Employees Julie, Marg, Barb, Zoe, and Lucy are locked in a

rear storage room and unless the robbers get what they want, one of them will be eliminated every hour.

Playwright Cerise de Gelder explores the notion that we are all survivors of our

BOOKINGS: call 4952 4958 or online newcastletheatrecompany.com.au

WEDNESDAY SPECIAL: all tickets $30

• 90 De Vitre Street • Lambton •

- 8 Jun

own private hostage situations in which work, love and family collide. It is about friendships between women, the ties that bind and how crises test us.

Directed by Tracey Owens, the cast of six includes Leanne GuihotBalcombe as Marg, Jennifer Ingall as Barb, Jane-Ann Scott as Julia, Madeline Valentinis as Zoe, Miranda Smith as Lucy, and Crystal Davis as Patty.

Hostage opens on Saturday 25 May at 7.30pm.

Evening performances will then be held on Wednesday 29 and Friday 31 May, Saturday 1, Wednesday 5 and Saturday 8 June.

Matinees performances will be at 2pm on Sunday 26 May and Saturday 1 June.

The Local has a double pass to the winner’s choice of performance of Hostage

To be in the running for the double pass just text the word ‘Hostage’, your first and last name, and your preferred performance day/time to 0455 210 000 by Friday 17 May

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

Your favourite community newspaper is 10 this month

Your local community newspaper has hit a milestone this month, achieving a decade of publishing. It has been no mean feat in the age of the internet, with print media seemingly going out of fashion fast, to start and continue a new publication. Some might say the publisher was mad. Just occasionally he thinks that himself!

Anyway, here’s a little storyline on how this publication began and has developed over the last 10 years. May 2014 saw the first ever issue of Lambton Local published. It was home delivered to about 4000 homes in Lambton and North Lambton.

In September 2015, with Lambton Local humming along New Lambton Local began as a separate edition. The New Lambton issue went to around 5000 letterboxes each month in New Lambton and New Lambton Heights. These two editions continued monthly until January 2017 when they were brought together as one edition, Lambton & New Lambton Local

With far too much time on his hands, in April 2017 the publisher turned his attention a little further afield and started Hamilton Local. With a home-delivered circulation of 6500 across Hamilton, Hamilton North, Hamilton South and parts of Broadmeadow, Hamilton Local ran parallel with Lambton & New Lambton Local.

These two were brought together as simply The Local in July 2018. At the same time Adamstown and more of Broadmeadow were brought into the picture. By this stage The Local was being delivered to just on 21000 homes monthly.

In early 2020 as COVID lockdowns impacted business conditions The Local’s distribution area was reset to include Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, North Lambton, Hamilton North and parts of Broadmeadow, Jesmond and Kotara. This is the 11000+ footprint it still has today.

Below and on the next few pages are selected front covers from The Local and its various other mastheads from 2014 through to 2024...

Army Encampment, 1897

THAT WAS THEN This is now

with Lachlan Wetherall

Prior to Federation in 1901, each Australian state was responsible for its own military defence. In NSW, volunteer forces were formed and trained in various localities, and they held annual encampments where multiple units gathered for extended training and drills.

In 1897 a camp was held in the flat area of Hamilton South known as Blackburn’s Oval. This was located near the Merewether Hotel (now the Mary Ellen) operated by Edward Blackburn. Over 60 tents were erected to accommodate 550 men, comprising the 4th Infantry Regiment

from Newcastle, a field artillery unit from Sydney, and the mounted No. 3 Lancers Squadron from Singleton and Maitland. The Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate reported that “the four days’ military encampment commenced on Friday night under most unfavourable weather auspices, a strong southerly gale, with pouring rain, rendering the condition of the men under canvas far from pleasant.”

Each day was filled with drills and parades, with the main exercise held on Monday. Woken at 3:30am, the troops formed up on the parade ground and were told of an ‘enemy’ force having landed at Belmont and heading to Newcastle.

The infantry, cavalry and artillery proceeded to Charlestown and engaged in a 90-minute mock battle that repulsed the ‘invaders’ in time for breakfast at 8.30am.

Returning to camp and a few hours rest, the soldiers held another exercise in the afternoon. Upwards of 7000 spectators crowded onto the Glebe Hill and the spoil heap of the old Hamilton colliery to watch “the troops rushing to and fro, the cavalry galloping around, with the air thick with smoke as the big guns reverberated.”

The camp ended on Tuesday with general satisfaction at its success, apart from the departing troops’ complaints of “insufficient and commonplace” food rations.

Newcastle continued to host annual military encampments in the vicinity, with the last held in September 1914. Blackburn’s Oval was used for sport up until 1923, after which the area was developed for housing.

You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com

Above: Army Camp. Blackburn Oval, Hamilton South, NSW, Sunday 23 May 1897. Photo by Ralph Snowball. University of Newcastle, Living Histories.

Below: Pacific Highway, Hamilton South. Motorists now drive where the military once drilled.

At Q’s Books we are often asked for recommendations. Below we have listed some of our favourites over the past few years for you to consider. Enjoy!

R.F. Kuang

Lola in the Morror by Trent Dalton

The Housemaid by Freida McFadden

by

The Work by Bri Lee

Here to HELP

with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape

Is government policy boring?

Being asked what I do for a living is complex and, sometimes, anxiety-producing.

If I say “public policy” or “government relations”, most people’s eyes glaze over and they start rocking on their feet, not even bothering to stifle a yawn. I pre-emptively put an arm out, in case I need to catch them before they hit the floor fast asleep.

When I worked in Treasury, my boss warned me “be careful what you say everywhere. Especially parties. There are journalists trying to get a scoop. Do NOT EVER tell anyone you work for Treasury.”

At the ATO, my colleagues had war stories of rooms becoming silent at the mention of the ATO. “Tell them you work for Treasury.”

25 years into my career, Mum still has no idea what I do. I have tried to explain at many family dinners over the decades. I even sent Mum my job description a few times. To no avail.

“Lobbyist” comes with connotations of dodgy backroom deals.

I developed legislation to stop backroom deals between charities and money launderers, who even tried to claim tax deductions for the deals!

Yet, public policy, government relations, advocacy, lobbying, or whatever you want to call it, is exciting. It gets me up every morning, itching to make the world a better place, one government decision at a time.

“What do you do for a living?”

I stare desperately and respond “Ah… what do you do?”

Relief for dogs with arthritis

Arthritis is a common yet debilitating condition among aging dogs and has long been a concern for pet owners. But, there is promising news for our furry companions grappling with the pain of arthritis.

At Elder Street Vets, we understand the challenges that managing arthritis poses for both dogs and their humans. We’re excited to announce a groundbreaking development in the field of veterinary medicine: a revolutionary monthly injectable treatment that promises new found hope for dogs suffering from arthritis.

This cutting-edge treatment harnesses the power of innovative technology to provide targeted relief for arthritic symptoms. Unlike traditional oral medications, which may require daily administration and can sometimes lead to adverse side effects, this new injectable medication offers a convenient monthly solution with minimaldiscomfort and side effects for the canine patient. Trials have demonstrated the remarkable efficacy

VET Chat

with Dr Darren Gibbins of Elder St Vets

of this treatment, with many dogs experiencing significant improvement in mobility and comfort after just one dose. Whether your beloved companion struggles to climb stairs, chase after toys, or simply enjoy daily walks, this monthly injectable offers the promise of a happier, healthier, more active life.

At Elder Street Vets, we’re committed to providing the highest standard of care for our patients. With this revolutionary treatment, we’re pleased to offer a new avenue of hope for dogs living with arthritis. For more information about this ground-breaking therapy and how it can benefit your furry friend, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Elder Street Vets. Together, we can help your dog live their best life!

LAW Matters

by Emma Essex Lawyer at Newcastle Legal

Don’t delay a formal property settlement

We often push things to the bottom of the to do list but formally finalising your financial relationship on the breakdown of a relationship should not be one of them.

This may occur because: “We are amicable and it is all good” or “My ex hasn’t done anything about it so why should I?”

If you are amicable and have reached agreement, formalise it. That way you don’t risk your former spouse, even though you may have already paid them some money, later seeking a property adjustment. A good family lawyer will help you formalise it.

If you haven’t reached agreement or you have not been able to discuss this with your former spouse, seek legal advice early. Doing nothing often has adverse consequences.

The asset pool is determined as at the date of any property settlement, not the date of separation. This means as a general rule that all your current assets and liabilities will be considered part of the property pool.

So you may have separated years ago, not yet divorced and find your former spouse seeking a property settlement at a later time when your own assets have grown and theirs have diminished.

If you’ve received an inheritance or accumulated post separation assets or income, they are at risk of being considered part of the property pool. While a Court will take account of the fact that your assets grew post-separation, there is no rule that excludes them from consideration in the property pool.

To minimise the risk of having these contributions and assets dragged into your property settlement, always resolve your financial relationship in a timely way after you separate.

to looking on the brightside

Every time Brightside grows, I think it’s too good to be true and imposter syndrome does a little cortisol dance on my forehead.

My brain in all its wisdom spits out questions like:

Maybe our patients were fibbing when they said we’d helped them get out of pain?

What if I’m not really making physio great again? (MPGA)

Maybe I should go back to delivering pizzas - I was definitely good at that job (thankyou Pizza Haven)

Then I remember that we have 97 five-star google reviews

And a patient last week said we had changed her life.

And our Christmas drive for our charity - Jenny’s

with Ben Hutton of Brightside Physio

And we have 100% got the best team in Newcastle. No lie.

And these facts help the imposter syndrome gremlins a little. We’re growing like a teenager on protein shakes.

The Brightside 2 NEW location is:

Konara Building Suite 2, Level 1, 15 Lambton Rd Broadmeadow

If you can’t get an appointment that suits you at Lambton - let the team know and we’ll do our best to help in the new digs. Book it at the usual: www. brightsidephysio.com.au, or call 4062 8862 to talk to an excellent human.

PHARMACY Matters

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

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are medicines used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Many bacteria are now resistant to commonly used antibiotics. Infections caused by these antibiotic-resistant bacteria are difficult to treat. Wise use of antibiotics can help to slow down the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Many illnesses are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. These illnesses are called infections. Antibiotics can only be used to treat infections caused by bacteria. Antibiotics interfere with the growth and function of bacteria, but do not affect viruses or other micro-organisms.

Bacteria can develop resistance to an antibiotic. If this happens, infections caused by the bacteria can no longer be successfully treated with that antibiotic. Some bacteria have now become resistant to most of the antibiotics in common use. Examples of resistant bacteria are methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) and multi- drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MDR-TB). Infections caused by these resistant bacteria are very difficult to treat. It is very important to use antibiotics correctly. Antibiotics can only be used to treat bacterial infections. They do not work against viral infections such as the common cold, most sore throats, most sinus infections, most coughs, acute bronchitis and the ‘flu’. Viruses and bacteria are completely different types of micro-organisms. When an antibiotic is taken for a viral infection it:

• has no effect against the virus. It will not help a viral infection get better faster or stop it spreading to others

• may allow the growth of resistant bacteria. Then, the antibiotic will not work when it is really needed. Bacterial infections that are resistant to antibiotics are a lot more difficult to treat and may not be curable.

• may cause side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhoea and thrush

• may cause an allergic reaction.

If antibiotics are used often, and when there is no need for them, the growth of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics increases. Bacterial resistance to antibiotics is spreading. In the future, many of our common antibiotics may not work.

• Do not ask your doctor to prescribe antibiotics. Instead, ask how best to treat your symptoms. Remember that most coughs, colds, sore throats and runny noses are caused by viruses, which cannot be killed by antibiotics. Many minor bacterial infections will also clear up on their own and do not need antibiotics.

• Carefully follow the instructions for taking antibiotics. Take them for as long as you have been told to, even if you feel better. Sometimes, your doctor may give you a repeat prescription for a second course of antibiotics. Always ask your doctor whether you need to use the repeat.

• Never share antibiotics with family or friends.

• Do not use antibiotics left over from a previous infection, or old prescriptions for antibiotics, without first checking with your doctor.

Local Community Group Notices

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

HOME-START FAMILY SERVICES

Home-Start is a voluntary service offering support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under 5 where the parents are experiencing difficulty in their parenting roles or are under stress. For information about volunteering or Home-Start services ph 4952 9488 or go to: www.homestartaustralia.org/

NEWCASTLE BIRTH MOVEMENT

Newcastle Birth Movement is a pregnant womans’ dream. Located inside Pachamama House, 21 Gordon Ave, Hamilton. We offer complimentary emotional support services with professionals, not-for-profit, hypnobirthing & many more great events. Plus preloved maternity, breastfeeding & babywear, all in great or excellent condition. Contact us by email at newcastlebirthmovement@gmail.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS

JUMBLE SALE - SATURDAY 18 MAY

Rotary Club of Newcastle invites everyone to attend a Jumble Sale on Saturday 18 May at the Masonic Hall, corner of St James Rd and Cromwell St New Lambton. Doors open 8.30am. You never know what you will find: crockery, kitchenware, plants, sewing, toys, art, small items of furniture and much more.

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 8 May at 5.30pm. For more information email: lambtonresidents@gmail. com or call Angela on 0422 633 737.

HOBBIES & INTERESTS

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.

HUNTER REGION FIELD NATURALISTS & NATURE JOURNALING CLUB

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

SENIORS GROUPS

LADIES PROBUS CLUB OF NEW LAMBTON

Are you recently retired or semi-retired and looking for a friendly group of ladies to share activities and social outings with? Our Club has vacancies for new members. Our monthly activities include active and interesting walks, book club, movies/theatre/shows, day trips, birthday lunches and a monthly meeting with guest speaker on the fourth Monday at Wallsend Diggers Club, Tyrrell Street Wallsend. If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of please contact Eileen at eileencampbell46@ yahoo.com.au or on 0428 991 184.

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

LAMBTON SENIORS GROUP

Interested in playing cards? Canasta is a great social game and is played every Thursday from 9.30 am to 1.00 pm at Jesmond Bowlo, 48 Mordue Parade (near the Jesmond Mall). You’ll be most welcome and we’ll happily teach you, either from scratch or just refresh your knowledge. Free off street parking. Phone Nola 4952 3685 or Des 4955 5032.

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 9:15 so we can meet and greet you. We would love to meet you at our next meeting. https://www.newcastleprobus. org/ Contact Brian Prior 0415 081 610.

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.

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

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 4 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

NEW LAMBTON LADIES BOWLING CLUB

We are seeking ladies to join our bowling club on our all weather greens. We play Tuesday morinigs from 10am, Saturdays from 1pm and Thursday mixed from 10am. Free coaching is available to Wests members. Come along and meet our friendly ladies and look over our beautiful club. We’re sure you will want to join for the social aspects and exercise. For more information ph Bev 4955 0080 or Marion 0408 433 893.

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.

AGENTS FOR PRIDE DRY CLEANERS!

Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 4.45pm

Saturday 7.30am to 11.45am

Closed Wednesdays for fishing!

Local Classifieds...

BARBECUE

Weber Spirit 3 burner, flat plate, grill plate and side burner. Very good condition $200 ONO Ph

BOX TRAILER

Box trailer 6’ x 4’ in very good condition, new wiring, registered $350. Phone after 11am Ph 4957 3120

FURNITURE

Large dining table & 6 chairs in good condition $200, glass top oval shaped cane table & two chairs $100, solid timber coffee table $60 Ph 0431 610 116

OUTDOOR BLINDS

Gardenline Patio heavy duty PVC outdoor blinds 150cm (w) 240cm (h) 0.7mm (thick) Zippers on sides. Brand new, unopened. $60 each or all 3 for $150. Ph 0422 471 445

SEWING MACHINE

Brother JS1400 portable sewing machine, only used twice, $50 pick up only Ph 0415 959 791

FREE CONVECTION OVEN

Free convection oven, as new, surplus to our needs. Pick up Lambton Ph 4952 2575

FLOW YOGA

and relaxation. Prioritise finding the balance with time out for yourself to

your wellbeing and

Keep moving through the cooler 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

NOTICES

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

CARER WANTED

Looking for a home carer / nurse (student or retired ok) for an 97 year old lady recovering from a stroke in New Lambton Heights. Help required with turning, bathing and toileting. Enquire with Jen Ph 0409 578

MAURICE HOME

For repairs, instalations, assembly, maintenance & odd jobs

0406

HANDYMAN

All painting and gyprock repairs, plus most services in small renovation works. 30 years experience. Phone Jason anytime

HANDYMAN

Available for rubbish removal, shed clearing and yard work. Good rates. Contact Ian Ph 0432 201 121

IELTS TUITION

Experienced university lecturer. IELTS/IDP Certified. Lessons via Zoom & Google Docs. Suitable for foreign nationals applying for Permanent Residency/Sponsor visas & university applications. Offering instruction for all academic levels. Testimonials available. From $40 per hour. Contact Chris by email: chrisausspeak@gmail.com

HEARTMOVES

Gentle exercises for seniors

Call Lorraine 0411 422 300 or email: Lorraine.norton88@ bigpond.com for class information

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

They’re free & they work! Send us yours by 15th of the month

NOTICES

HUNTER THEATRE SUPPORTERS

Trip to Fingal Bay Surf Club for 12 noon lunch. Tuesday 18 June. Leaving at 10.30am from Wests New Lambton. For bookings and details Ph 4952 8590

SISTER ACT - THE MUSICAL

At Capitol Theatre

Sydney Wednesday 11 September at 1pm. Coach leave Wests New Lambton at 8am. Cost $105 pp show and coach. For bookings and details Ph 4952 8590

TICKETS FOR NEWCASTLE

THEATRE CO. IN 2024

• Hostage - Sunday 26 May at 2pm.

• Night Must Fall - Saturday 13 July at 2pm.

• The Effect - Saturday 17 August at 2pm Tickets $30pp, saving $5pp. For bookings Ph 4952 8590

SOMETHING TO SELL OR TO

Name Address

Phone Email

or PO BOX 130 Jesmond 2299. They’re free (for private party advertising). Whether you have something to sell or something to tell, we can help

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

Find out if you’re

For others

only $25.

We can vaccinate from 5 years and over. Do you have a business? Why not set up an account and vaccincate all your staff? We just need a name and email address! Book your appointment online or drop into a local Piggott’s Pharmacy store today.

Orchardtown Rd, New Lambton

Phone: 4957 2474

Phone: 4957 3630