The Local - September 2023

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 October issue close on Friday 15 September

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LOCAL Matters

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

Go hard, Go Knights, Go proud

The Newcastle Knights NRL side have given themselves the best chance in more than a decade of delaying their end of season trip and playing on deep into the September finals series.

Hosting a semi-final at McDonald Jones Stadium is a feat they have not achieved since 2006.

Many long suffering locals, me included, are very excited by the prospect of the Knights playing through to the business end of the season.

But of course we’re not all Knights mad. Some locals will be excited/disappointed that their (non-Knights) team has/hasn’t made it this far.

No doubt there will be some local people, especially those residing within walking distance of the stadium on Turton Rd, whose driveways are impinged by errant drivers on game day, who cannot wait for it to all end and the circus to leave town.

Newcastle has a collective spring in its step when the Knights are riding high.

I am daring to dream of really big things for season 2023. Well truth be told is I dream that dream every season, at the outset at least. By about mid season I wake up to the cruel truth that we will again fall short of expectations. But this year it’s going to be different. It really does feel that way.

And our NRLW side are playing well too. Backing up last year’s Grand Final success. Could it be our year to have both our mens and womens teams make it to the big dance?

Van Egmond gets Key to City

Novocastrian footballer Emily Van Egmond has been awarded a Key to the City of Newcastle in recognition of the Matildas’ heroic efforts during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The inspirational midfielder played an impactful role during the Matildas’ history-making campaign, which saw them achieve the highest ever finish of any Australian team in a World Cup competition.

Playing her fourth World Cup, Van Egmond came on for the Matildas in the 73rd minute of their opener against the Republic of Ireland before making her mark on the competition with a superb goal in their narrow 3-2 loss to Nigeria. She secured significant game time for the remainder of the competition and played a key role through the middle as the Matildas went on to finish fourth overall, smashing television ratings and crowd records along the way.

City of Newcastle has a long and proud association with Van Egmond, helping to secure the first paid transfer of a player into the Australian W-League in 2017, when Emily transferred from VfL Wolfsburg to the Newcastle Jets.

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said Van Egmond, along with

fellow Newcastle player and Matildas squad member Claire Wheeler, would be role models for generations of local footballers as a result of the team’s gamechanging efforts.

“The performance of the Matildas during the Women’s World Cup has been nothing short of spectacular, capturing the imagination of the Australian public and igniting a women’s sport movement that will be felt for years to come,” Cr Nelmes said.

“We’re proud to be able to present this key to the city to Emily Van Egmond today for her stellar efforts

on and off the pitch, showing women and girls everywhere that anything is possible.”

Van Egmond thanked Novocastrians for turning out to support the Matildas and welcomed the recognition of women’s sport.

“Newcastle is a special place for me and I am honoured to receive the Key to the City,” Van Egmond said.

“Novocastrians have shown their passion for football and I’m thrilled so see the next generation of girls sharing my love of the game.”

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Matildas midfielder Emily Van Egmond and her father Gary at the presentation of the Key to the City of Newcastle

Crown Land rent hike for Club

(front page story) Club Lambton faces an annual rent hike with the potential to force its closure. Known for most of the last century as Lambton Bowling Club, it was given renewed energy in April 2021 when it merged with Club Charlestown. The club, which sits within Lambton Park, is required to pay rent to the land owner, the state Crown Lands department.

Crown Lands calculates the rent payable every three to five years based on market value of the land. Clubs operating on Crown Land are entitled to a rent rebate if they earn less than $1 million in annual revenue.

As a stand alone club until 2021 Lambton Bowling Club was eligible for that concession. Since merging with the much larger Club Charlestown it is no longer eligible.

Michael Gray CEO of Club Charlestown said Club Lambton’s rent had increased from $12,000 to $55,000 last year. He was then advised recently that it would be raised further to $95,000 annually from 1st July 2023.

“We don’t own the land, and we understand that rent needs to be paid.” Mr Gray told The Local

“The way they calculate the rent however seems unfair, and it doesn’t help a small suburban club keep its doors open.

“We’re a community bowling club trying to provide sports, hospitality and entertainment options. We try to be a focal point for the community, a place for locals to meet and socialise.” He added.

“Like any local club, Club Lambton returns whatever profit it makes to the community and its members in the form of improved facilities and cheaper food and drinks.

“Rent increases such as the one proposed, on top of other increased costs, such as insurance, utilities and the like, mean we have little if any profit to put back into the club”.

Mr Gray met with Wallsend MP Sonia Hornery in August to discuss his concerns but was told there was little that could be done as the rent reduction was not available to the larger merged entity.

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In a statement Ms Hornery said: “I have been a member of Club Lambton for many years. As a small, independent local club it has served our community for more than a century and has become iconic.

The previous Crown Lands rent arrangements changed after the acquisition of Club Lambton by Club Charlestown in 2021.”

She said it was important to raise Club Lambton’s concerns to a higher level. She therefore wrote to the Minister for Crown Lands, Stephen Kamper MP, about this matter on a number of occasions.

More than 200 people attended a meeting held at Club Lambton in August to inform members and the community on the state of play.

In addressing the meeting Mr Gray said he was hopeful that a compromise solution could be reached with Crown Lands that would allow the Lambton facility to continue serving its community.

He encouraged members and visitors who valued Club Lambton’s unique position as a local community asset to contact their state MP through social media and via letter to express their concerns.

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 coordinates 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 HomeStart 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 Wednesday 6 September.

CAN YOU SPARE 2-3 HOURS A WEEK TO VISIT A LOCAL FAMILY?

IF YOU:

4 are a parent or have direct parenting/caring experience

4 love children

4 are non-judgemental, caring and reliable

4 have a desire to make a difference in the lives of young children and parents

4 can attend our free training and preparation course

We will match you to a local family with children

0-5 years needing a little extra support.

Our next volunteer preparation course (1 day per week for 7 weeks) starts Wednesday 6 September.

For further information about the volunteer preparation course please contact Kat on 0456 625 807 or email programs@homestartaustralia.org

The course was made possible by a Kickstart Grant through Warners Bay Village (ISPT).

A Pocketful of Stories at YPT

How does an idea grow into a story and where does the idea come from to begin with?

In Young People’s Theatre’s (YPT’s) latest production A Pocketful of Stories, an author and their ideas weave six imaginative tales, The Pocket, Pip, Koo-Koo Gossip, The Plok, Poppy’s Pond and Tamiko.

In the telling of these stories, the audience will meet many lovable characters such as the fashionable ladybug, a theatrical possum and a pop-star sea-turtle!

Accompanied by delightful songs, the cast and audience will shimmy and bop along together. This colourful production will inspire storytellers of all ages to explore the world around them and create wonderful stories of their own.

This production is particularly special for YPT, as it has been created entirely by talented alumni who have grown up and trained within the organisation.

The playwright, Claire Thomas, began her time at YPT at the age of ten and never left, remaining an integral part of the family and evolving into a beloved tutor and Theatre School Coordinator.

The music composer, Glenda Price and her family have been

an integral part of YPT for generations. She was once a YPT student and now has children and grandchildren attending.

Even Alex McCann, music orchestrator, began as a student, going on to musically direct productions as an adult. This team is a testament to the deeprooted dedication and loyalty that YPT alumni carry with them into adulthood.

“While putting this script together, I could visualise a group of energetic young performers bringing the characters to life in their own fun

and clever ways.” playwright Claire Thomas said.

“For me, the cast represents the inner workings of a creative’s mind – once the author gets an idea –the ensemble takes off with it, like bees buzzing around a flower garden!

“With gorgeous music by Glenda and Alex, the audience won’t have any choice but to bop about in their seats.” Claire added

A Pocketful of Stories runs until Saturday 9 September. So don’t hesitate to get your tickets at:

yptninc.sales.ticketsearch.com/

YPT’s latest production, A Pocketful of Stories, is particularly special to the theatre company as it was created entirely by talented alumni

•10am

Hardship relief for ratepayers

As cost-of-living pressures continue to rise, City of Newcastle is encouraging people experiencing hardship to reach out for help with their rates.

City of Newcastle offers a range of support for residents and business owners experiencing financial difficulties, including waiving of interest on any overdue rates and the deferral of rates against their estate.

Ratepayers can enter into a flexible payment option including weekly, fortnightly and monthly instalments as well as other tailored plans.

Executive director Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer David Clarke said in the past financial year City of Newcastle had assisted around 800 ratepayers to enter into payment arrangements, while an additional 250 people were supported through our rates voucher scheme.

“We understand that many people and small businesses in our community are facing an extremely challenging time,” Mr Clarke said.

“City of Newcastle will continue to offer hardship support to residents and business owners experiencing financial hardship for the 2023/24 Rates Notice period.

“We encourage those experiencing difficulties to reach out and contact City of Newcastle to discuss a payment plan before their next rates instalment is due.”

Financial planning and counselling assistance through one of City of Newcastle’s appointed community welfare agencies is also available to ratepayers experiencing hardship.

Mr Clarke said while City of Newcastle was happy to work with people in need, it is disappointing that there are those within the community who chose to exploit this support.

“Unfortunately, there are a small number of people in the community who, despite having the means, choose not to pay their rates,” Mr Clarke said.

“This includes one customer who has amassed more than $130,000 in unpaid rates as a debt.

“While this behaviour is not common, it is a disappointing outcome to the detriment of other ratepayers.”

Ratepayers experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to seek assistance by contacting City of Newcastle’s rates team on 4974 2307 or rates@ncc. nsw.gov.au

Hello from Hamilton Business Association (HBA). We are a progressive volunteer collaborative that promotes a precinct that is welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. Hamilton Business Association won Community Group of the Year in 2021. Love Local, Love Hamilton. This monthly update will give you information on some of the exciting projects and collaborations the HBA is involved in.

Hopefully you have seen some of the wonderful artwork produced by the Small Doors Project throughout Beaumont St? The vibrant colours and designs have been so well received. These doors were always a target for graffiti and now look amazing. We are excited to let you know there will be a round two coming later this year! Any businesses/ landlords who think they may have a doorway in the Hamilton precinct that could use a spruce up get in touch with us at Hamilton Business Association to express an interest hamiltonbusinessassociationinc@gmail.com

September 5th is the next date for Operation Confidence (formally known as Business Beat). This sees some of the local police in attendance in James St Plaza to chat with local businesses and residents. These

opportunities are helping ensure the area remains welcoming and safe to all. Our relationship with the local Police is providing amazing outcomes for the area and we thank the Police for taking this time in Hamilton. Now… get ready for Newcastle Pride Festival 2023 this October! Friday October 6 - Sunday October 29. After the huge success of the 2022 festival, Newcastle Pride is hard at work in preparation for this year. Hamilton will come alive with a lot of the action including the Strut Dance Party and Glam Disco at SJ’s on Saturday 28th October. More info to come next month!

That’s it for now…

Love Local, Love Hamilton ª Hamilton Business Association

For more information and keep up to date on all our current and upcoming projects join us on Facebook HelloHamiltonNSW and Instagram hello_hamilton_nsw

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 us at The Local on 0455 210 000 by Friday 15 September 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 15 September and redeemed at your chosen retailer no later than 31 October 2023.

Congratulations to the residents of 27 Tathra Rd Lambton and 32 Knight St New Lambton who each claimed a prize last month by correctly identifying their letterboxes.

Your

I will continue to stand up for the issues that are important to you.

Sonia Hornery MP State Member for Wallsend

support of our practice enables us to provide volunteer services to the National Dental Foundation to continue to help people in our local community in need.

Live theatre returns to New Lambton Community Centre

Theatre artist Janie Gibson of Whale Chorus is transforming the New Lambton Community Centre into a theatre for the New Annual festival this September.

With her breathtaking solo performance Voices of Joan, Gibson explores themes of courage and power in a radical retelling of the story of Joan of Arc.

Whale Chorus has brought together an international creative team to transform this iconic art deco building and bring live performance back to the New Lambton precinct.

Whale Chorus founder Janie Gibson grew up in Newcastle and after developing her theatre practice both nationally and internationally over the past 15 years, travelling from Sydney to Poland to the USA and Scotland, she has returned to her hometown to start a theatre company and give back to her community.

In Voices of Joan, Janie is stepping on stage herself with an arresting 90 minute solo directed by Finnish artist Anu Almagro.

Janie and Anu developed their international collaboration in the experimental theatre laboratories in Poland. In Voices of Joan they reveal an enduring story about courage, failure and finding inner strength in the face of adversity.

Janie searches for Joan’s story in fragments of words throughout history; words spoken at her trial, translated in textbooks, imagined in poetry and illuminated in drama. With irreverent humour and multiple onstage costume changes Janie transforms into the multitudinous voices of Joan as she tumbles through an ancient story

about truth, gender and power with startling reverberations today.

“We are so excited to be finally bringing this work to Newcastle”. Janie told The Local.

“We have performed seasons in Spain, Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney. This season at the New Annual festival is a long-awaited Newcastle premiere and I can’t wait

to share it with local audiences and offer them a renewed experience of an iconic New Lambton venue” she added.

Voices of Joan will be performed at the New Lambton Community Centre for five shows only, from September 27 to October 1. Tickets are on sale now at www.newannual. com

Images (clockwise from top left): Janie Gibson, writer and performer for Voices of Joan. Images by Lee Illfield

Lambton Highlights

2023 PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION

CATEGORIES FOR ENTRY

• Junior section (5-16 years) • Open Section •

How to enter: Email LambtonPhotos2023@gmail.com with Photographer’s Name & Category in the subject and attach photos (maximum 3 entries per person) and send.

Photos will be loaded to Facebook Lambton Highlights Photography Competition. Both categories will be voted for online as People’s Choice.

Winners will be listed on Facebook and presentations made at the Lambton Residents Group November meeting.

We are most grateful for the continued generous support by Don Mitchell for our Annual Photography Competition

Enquiries: Mary Webster at ScoutJemBritts@gmail.com

The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Lavya Gupta of New Lambton. Lavya has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy. Last month’s mystery photo was taken in the playground at Lambton Park. 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: In 1898 how many miles was it from Newcastle Post Office to Stroud and return?

Question 2: After merging with Club Charlestown in 2021 Lambton Bowling Club was renamed what?

Question 3: What is title of the stage production local actor Janie Gibson is bringing to New Lambton Community Centre this month?

Question 4: What is YPT short for?

Question 5: The photograph above right shows the rear view of which well known public building?

THAT WAS THEN This is now with

Lachlan Wetherall

Cycling Century Run

Some things change, some things stay the same. When we look at Ralph Snowball’s photograph of Morehead St Lambton from 125 years ago, the most striking difference is a complete absence of cars. Occupying the street instead is something very familiar to us, people enjoying an outdoor activity on a public holiday. The photo, from the morning of 13 October 1898, shows a group of cyclists at Lambton about to set off on the next leg of a “cycling century run”, a 100-mile ride to Stroud and back. The event was held as part of the Eight-Hour Day celebrations, the forerunner of our Labour Day public holiday. The ride was a test of endurance rather than

speed. There were no trophies for the fastest, but a badge for everyone who finished within the allotted time. The ride was intended for fun, but within limits. At a planning meeting for the ride the committee noted that “any exhibition of larrikinism will lead to disqualification.”

The ride was divided into several legs, with predefined stops where participants would have a paper ticket punched by an official. At 6:30am, 46 cyclists set off from Newcastle Post Office, with the first leg detouring through Adamstown to Lambton to make the total distance up to 100 miles. With the next leg to Raymond Terrace the cyclists enjoyed a short break as they crossed the Hunter River on the Hexham punt. The group reached Stroud at 12.26pm and after an appetising snack commenced the return journey at 1.09pm.

Despite darkness falling, and the necessity of walking their bikes up the Sandgate hill due to road repairs, 38 participants arrived back at Newcastle Post Office by 7:30pm, having completed the 100 miles in under 13 hours. Special mention must be made of the three women who completed the course, not only keeping up with the men, but doing so while wearing highly impractical ankle length skirts!

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

Above: The Cycling Century Run, Morehead St Lambton, 13 October 1898.

Photo by Ralph Snowball. Newcastle Library. Below: The same view of Morehead St in 2023.

PHYSIO Matters

Scared of stairs?

Is this patellar tendinopathy? Is the front of your knee oscar-the-grouchy? Especially on stairs? Seems to ‘warm up’ if you use it for a while? You might have a dodgy patella tendon. Your tendon is like a spring and it connects muscle to bone. When it gets overloaded it can talk to you (sometimes it’s a yell!)

Should I be worried about the pain? Probably not. The changes happening in your dodgy tendon are changeable and usually don’t need X-rays or specialists to look at them. However, if you leave it for long enough and don’t treat it well, the tendon can get thickened and grotty.

see is that our patients have been told to do lots of squats, lunges or step ups as a way of strengthening their leg but instead, it can just make the pain worse! Your tendon will like slow steady increases in load, no sudden movements!

What can I do?

Here are my top three tips

1. Find the why - work with your physio to work out what has increased the load on your knee. Is it an old injury? A stiff ankle? Started running without knowing what you’re doing? Without knowing the root cause, you will struggle to help your grumpy tendon.

2. Strength > Stretch. Stretching your thigh might feel better for five seconds but it won’t fix it. You need a gold-star program that gets your leg stronger so you have a happy, joyful knee.

3. Don’t rest (too much). It’s a bit of a mind-flip but the less you do the weaker your muscle gets and the tendon goes on holiday. It will make it feel better for a bit while your muscle is off drinking mojitos in the sun, but….it won’t fix the problem!

Happy tendons need happy knees mean happy humans.

For a plan to get your knee better come and see the wondrous workers of Brightside Physio: www.

N O K N E E T O F E A R

with James Youngberry of Brightside Physio

PHARMACY Matters

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

Mouth ulcers

Mouth ulcers are small, painful sores inside the mouth. They usually occur on the inside of the lips and cheeks and underneath and on the edge of the tongue. Medicines available from a pharmacist may reduce the pain and help mouth ulcers to heal.

Mouth ulcers occur on the inside lining of the mouth. Blisters or sores on the lips or around the outside of the mouth are not mouth ulcers. Most mouth ulcers are not harmful and heal on their own in 7–14 days.

Signs and symptoms

Mouth ulcers are small round or oval sores. They are usually yellow, white or grey in the centre, and red and swollen around the edges. They can be very painful and make it hard to eat, speak and swallow.

Causes

Mouth ulcers are often caused by injury to the lining of the mouth or tongue. Sometimes the cause of a mouth ulcer is not known.

Medicines

Medicines may reduce the pain and speed the healing of mouth ulcers. You can buy mouth ulcer treatments from a pharmacy without a prescription. They are available as pastes, gels, paints, lozenges and mouth washes. Pastes: • form a protective, soothing layer over the

mouth ulcer • may contain a medicine to reduce pain and swelling.

Gels, paints, lozenges: • may contain an antiseptic to prevent bacteria infecting the ulcer • may contain medicines to reduce pain and swelling.

Mouthwashes: • are useful to treat mouth ulcers in hard-to-reach places • may contain an antiseptic to stop bacteria infecting the ulcer • may contain medicines to reduce pain and swelling.

Self care

• Try to avoid foods and drinks which cause or irritate your mouth ulcers.

• Keep your mouth and teeth clean with regular brushing and flossing. If an ulcer makes it too painful to brush your teeth, use an antiseptic mouthwash to keep your mouth clean.

• Avoid using mouthwashes that contain alcohol. It can dry out your mouth and make mouth ulcers worse.

• Brush your teeth gently, using a soft toothbrush.

• Try using a pain-relieving medicine before eating.

• Try sucking on ice to help ease the pain.

• Have your dentures checked regularly to make sure they fit well.

• Rinse your dentures with water before you insert them.

• 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.

• Ask your pharmacist or doctor about vitamin and mineral supplements.

• Learn and use relaxation techniques to help manage stress.

• Don’t smoke.

Important

Most mouth ulcers are a minor problem and heal on their own. Sometimes they are a symptom of a more serious medical condition. Ask a Piggott’s Pharmacist or seek medical advice if mouth ulcers:

• last more than 14 days

• are larger than 1 cm across

• heal with scarring

• occur often (e.g. every 1–2 weeks)

• occur in a group of five or more ulcers

• occur with a sore throat, fever or other signs of illness

• do not cause pain

• stop you from eating and drinking

• occur in a child under 10 years of age.

See a dentist if you have sharp edges on a tooth, or a dental appliance that seems to cause mouth ulcers.

HEALTH Matters

with Belinda Leskiw Manager at Visionary Health

Sleep-the common denominator

For many of us, sleep is the common denominator when it comes to how we feel throughout the day. It affects our moods, our energy levels, our resilience in times of stress, and our decision making throughout the day (in particular, our food choices!). So it’s pretty important that we get our eight hours of restful and restorative sleep.

But what if we don’t? What if we are tossing and turning, unable to switch off, struggling to relax and set our bodies up for that rest?

We reach for the caffeine and the sugar to give our cells a temporary energy lift, which in all honesty, further perpetuates the poor sleep cycle. So how can we help ourselves and start to really re-energise our bodies?

There are many lifestyle adjustments that can be made, such as low light exposure in the evening, no caffeine after midday, a balanced diet, sufficient movement and exercise, improving our stress response, relaxing our bodies as we near the end of the day, and correct bedroom temperature to encourage sleep.

Here at Visionary Health we are passionate about supporting your body to fall asleep easier – and stay asleep throughout the night. Nutrients like magnesium, hormones such as melatonin, and herbs like Passionflower and Skullcap can all help to facilitate a good night’s rest.

Being a compounding pharmacy, we can create an individualised formula using nutraceuticals and herbal medicine to start to set your body up for restorative sleep from the inside, by working with your body’s natural hormones and circadian rhythms. You can find us at 119 Beaumont Street, Hamilton, email us on compounding@visionaryhealth.com.au or speak to one of our friendly staff 4969 5081.

LAW Matters

by Ronnie Wall of Wall Legal, New Lambton

First home buyers changes

In March 2023 we talked about the First Home Buyer Choice Scheme, which allowed for eligible first home buyers to choose to pay an annual property tax rather than transfer duty on settlement of their purchase. Revenue NSW discontinued this Scheme on 1 July 2023.

Changes to the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme which came into effect on that date mean that eligible purchasers can apply for a full exemption from transfer duty when buying a property valued up to $800,000.00.

Eligible purchasers buying property valued between $800,000.00 and $1million can apply for a concessional rate of transfer duty. No exemption or concession applies to properties valued over $1million.

A change has also been made to the residency requirement from 1 July 2023. Eligible purchasers must move into the property within twelve (12) months of settlement and now live there as their principal place of residence for a continuous period of twelve (12) months. This has been increased from the previous requirement of six (6) months.

Thresholds remain unchanged for eligible purchasers buying vacant land on which they intend to build a home which will be their principal place of residence. Eligible purchasers can apply for a full exemption from transfer duty when buying land valued up to $350,000.00. Eligible purchasers buying land valued between $350,000.00 and $450,000.00 can apply for a conces-sional rate of transfer duty. No exemption or concession applies to vacant land valued over $450,000.00.

Information on other current Schemes, such as First Home Owner Grant (New Home) and Shared Equity Home Buyer Helper, including eligibility requirements, can be found at www.revenue.nsw.gov.au

Disclaimer: This article is provided for information purposes only. The contents should not be relied on as legal or financial advice

Local Community Group Notices

DOG RESCUE NEWCASTLE

Dog Rescue Newcastle is a volunteer organisation committed to saving lives. We are looking for donations to assist with the care of our foster dogs and puppies including: food supplies, flea/ tick treatments, beds, toys, collars/leads, puppy supplies If you can assist please call Maria Ph 0438 529 727

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.

NEWCASTLE LADIES’ PROBUS

We meet on the first Wednesday of the month at 10.30 at Wests Newcastle. We are a friendly group of ladies and we have a variety of activities which include coffee mornings, a walking group, lunches and other outings. Each month we have an interesting guest speaker. For more information contact Margaret 0417 663 064 or Ruth 0439 478 431

LAMBTON-NEW LAMBTON RSL SUB-BRANCH

Lambton-New Lambton RSL sub-branch is your local sub-branch. We meet at 10am on the second Sunday of the month at Club Lambton located at 51 Karoola Road. Whether you have retired from service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), Armed Forces, or are still serving, joining RSL NSW means so much more than being invited to events. It’s about joining a family of committed people who thrive on camaraderie and friendship. Together, we all support each other and can assist you with any Department of Veteran Affairs claims, employment support and the transition from service-to-civilian life. For more information send an email to lambton-newlambtonsb@rslnsw.org.au

NEWCASTLE STUDIO POTTERS INC.

Newcastle Studio Potters Inc. is celebrating 55 Years with an exemplary member’s only exhibition opening Friday 29 September at 6 pm, with the theme of ‘Emerald’ – to represent our 55th year as a cohesive, contemporary and innovative pottery group. The exhibition continues until Sunday 15 October. From humble beginnings in the late 60s to early 70s and with the purchase of the old butchery shop at Cooks Hill in 1973 the group, now known as Newcastle Studio Potters Inc., have had a continuing presence and continue to be a contributing factor in the cultural fabric of Newcastle with a dynamic exhibition calendar of traditional and contemporary ceramics and art in a varie-ty of media at Back to Back Galleries

57 Bull St Cooks Hill. Back to Back Galleries

57 Bull St Cooks Hill, Newcastle Ph 4929 3677

Gallery Hours: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 11am – 5 pm Email:contact@newcastlepotters.org or www.newcastlestudiopotters.org

NEWCASTLE CREATIVE EMBROIDERERS AND FIBRE ARTISTS

Do you like to be creative? NCEATA’s members have a love of working creatively with textiles and fibres and are of many skill levels with varying special interests. Members gather each month to interact, share, learn and exhibit. Information about workshops and meetings and examples of our creative textiles can be found on our website www.nceata.org and also on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ NCEATA. We welcome visitors and have two meetings each month, except for December. Meeting and Workshops depending on public holidays,1st Monday of the month, 10am –1pm, 3rd Saturday of the month, 1 -4pm. Venue: Belair Church Hall, 130 Garden Grove Pde, Adamstown. Email enquiries to: secretary@ nceata.org

Send your free community notice to admin@hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited/omitted depending on available space.

Local Classifieds...

NOTICES

AUSTRALIAN NATIVE PLANT SALE DAY

Cancelled

Saturday 26th September. Hunter Wetlands Centre, 1 Wetlands Pl, Shortland. 9.30am to 2pm, next to the education buildings.

BUDGERIGARS

Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15 Ph 0456 919 046

HONEY

Local, 100% pure and unprocessed, no heating or sugar syrup. Raw and natural from our hives, pick up New Lambton

$13kg Ph 0423 050 778

LOUNGE

Nic Scali, 3-seater grey fabric. Both ends recline, electric. Only 18 months old, good condition $500. Ph 0400 483 019

LP RECORDS

Early 1960s to 1980s artists. Best offers Ph 0409 452 250

FOUND

PHOTOGRAPHS

A number of family photographs were found at the corner of Hill and Morehead Streets Lambton on 19 August. If you think they are yours call Ph 0455 210 000

CLEANER AVAILABLE

My name is Carol-Anne, I’m a hard working, offering cleaning services. I’m looking for work in your area $35.00 p/h have references. Ph 0403 34 0592

COMPANION WANTED

Mature lady (prefer 60+) to be a companion one day per week to a 60+ female. Please list hobbies. $155 /day. Contact by email to: rockorchid@gmail.com

CUSTOM CABINETRY & JOINERY

Kitchens, vanities, laundries, TV display units, stone, solid timber & veneer surfaces. Licence number 353314C

Chris’s Custom Cabinetry. Email chriscustomcabinetry31@gmail. com or phone Ph 0406 033 171

DECEASED ESTATES

Deceased Estates & memorabilia bought. Cash $ call Steve Ph 0419 266 223

DECLUTTERING

Like to increase the price of your home by decluttering? I can help you. I also offer cleaning, gardening and makeovers. Ph 0415 389 811

HANDYMAN

Available for rubbish removal & tidy ups, Ian Ph 0432 201 121

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

If you have something to tell or something to sell, try Local Classifieds. They are free and they work! Email your ad to admin@hunterlocal.com.au or post it to PO Box 130 Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month.

Local C

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 or SMS Ph 0416 624 710

MICHAEL SMITH

I am looking for a Michael Smith, born Peter Jones, age 61, lives in the Newcastle area. If he could contact me, Wendy Smith at the email address below, he has a connection to my late husband’s DNA on Ancestry.

E: gwstheulam@yahoo.com.au

SHARPE’S HORTICULTURAL CONSULTANCY & DESIGN SERVICE

Onsite advice service, plant disease diagnosis, lawn problems, general garden & plant concerns, plant positioning & location. Phone Simon Ph 0438 609 229

NOTICES

THEATRE TICKETS

Billy Elliott the Musical Saturday matinees on 14 & 21 October at 1pm at Civic Theatre Newcastle. A-Reserve tickets. For details & bookings Ph 4952 8590

TULIP TIME COACH TRIP

Trip to Bowral on Saturday 23 and Wednesday 27 September 2023. Phone for details and bookings Ph 4952 8590

VIDEOGRAPHER

Atmos Creative, specialising in photography and videography for businesses and events. Let us showcase your brand or immortalise your memories with dedication and finesse. Visit our website: www.atmoscreative. com.au

WEDDING & FUNCTIONS ENTERTAINMENT

Jake Jon King is a local established solo musician who is well suited for weddings, pub gigs as well as any outdoor events. He knows many hit songs from the past 70 years plus many traditional wedding songs. Email jakejonking@gmail.com or Ph 0410 308 523

POSITIONS VACANT

Be paid to deliver to letterboxes

The Local, your free monthly letterbox-delivered newspaper, requires reliable, energetic locals who love walking, to join our team that ensure our community news gets into more than 11,000 letterboxes each month. You must be available to do the deliveries around the end of each month. Two to four hours of walking per delivery area each month. Good rates paid per 100 letterboxes. All ages are welcome to apply.

If you would like to join our team wait list email mark@ hunterlocal.com.au or text him on 0455 210 000 for more details

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

60 Day Dispensing What does it mean for you?

The Pharmacy industry is supportive of helping to reduce the cost of medicines for all Australians. The Government had good intentions but due to little consultation with the pharmacy industry, reduced funding and poor planning, it leaves an awkward mix of some patients being better off and others worse.

The Government announced that from the 1st of September, 6 million Australians will save money and will get 2 months of their medicine, for the price of 1. But if only it was that simple. There are only 92 medicines, out of more than 900 on the PBS, that will be available to receive 2 months’ worth each dispensing, and with 5 repeats,

the script can last 12 months. However, if your regular medicine is one of those 92, you must see the GP and have a new specific script that reflects this.

ª Advantaged:

ä Patients on less than 3 medicines with stable medical conditions.

8 Disadvantaged:

ä Patients on 6 or more medicines

ä Aged Care residents

ä Patients on multiple medications will be less likely to reach the safety net

ä Patients who require pharmacy services e.g. Websterpacks, deliveries, consultations. These services will likely increase in price.

Find out more…