Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley & Port Stephens | April 2018

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P R E S E N T E D B Y S T R U T & F R E T I N A S S O C I AT I O N W I T H C I V I C T H E AT R E N E W C A S T L E

BLANC DE BLANC 27 MAR - 15 APR

Trevor Ashley

MOTHER’S RUIN

4 APR • 6:00PM

28 MAR • 6:00PM

GAWURRA

LUKE MCGREGOR

5 APR • 6:30PM

29 MAR • 6:30PM

27 M AR - 1 5 A P R W W W.S PIE GE LTE NTNE WCASTLE.CO M BO O K NOW AT T H E C I V I C TH E ATR E B O X OF F IC E AN Y T I C K ET E K O UTL E T O R C A L L 4 9 2 9 1 9 77

SUPPORTERS


INSIDE INTOUCH

From the Editors... The Hunter is a hotbed for sporting talent, a breeding ground for some of the best in the business across a wide range of sporting endeavours. With the Commonwealth Games set to kick off on the Gold Coast from April 4, we’ve pulled together your armchair guide to local athletes - highlighting some of our home-grown heroes preparing to pull on the green and gold to compete. There’s no better place than a writers festival to go behind the scenes of your favourite story and discover just what drove the author to tell that particular tale. And that’s exactly what book lovers of all ages can do in Newcastle this month when 130 writers converge on the city for the sixth annual Newcastle Writers Festival from April 7. He’s Australian music royalty, the working class man whose gravelly vocals and on-stage persona epitomised the spirit of the pub rock scene in the 1980's. He isn’t exactly who you’d expect to see headlining a writers festival, but Barnes will bring his story to life on stage as part of the Newcastle Writers Festival this month, with his critically acclaimed Working Class Man: An Evening of Stories & Songs also featuring stripped back versions of the songs that have shaped his journey. This month Newcastle city also plays host to a venue unlike any other when the internationally renowned Australian-based arts and events company Strut & Fret rolls into town with their Spiegeltent. Set up for a limited season in Newcastle’s Civic Park, the Spiegeltent is a sight to behold – and a unique experience not to be missed – and we find out all about not just the architecture but also who’s playing there in this issue. Also rolling into town this month are the dreaded School Holidays (how did that happen?) If you’re looking for a few budget boredom busters then we’ve got the guide for you! Check out our cracking calendar of activities for kids of all ages. Enjoy! Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Quentin and Di von Essen | Publishers

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Serving a tennis ball while sitting down [in a wheelchair] gives you a whole new perspective and appreciation. You quickly stop seeing the disability and start appreciating the ability.

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Contents//

- PAGE 30

ISSUE #32 APRIL 2018 Features 7

Million Dollar Rift - Reliving Skyhooks

12

What's On Highlights

14

Jimmy Barnes - Working Class Royalty

17

International and Local Acts Draw Fans to 2018 Gum Ball

18

From Radical Farmer to Rockstar - NWF 2018

20

Spiegeltent - The Ultimate Caberet and Music Venue

21

Mateship and Tradition Flourish this Anzac Day

22

Tickets on Sale for the 35th Anniversary of Tocal Field Days!

24

Lay it all on the Table

28

Bagging Gold for the Hunter - Commonwealth Games 2018

32

Speaking in Colour Workshops

34

What Plastic Surgery is Covered by Medicare?

35

The Benefits of Personal Training

40

Making Your Life Work for You... Mindfully

41

School Holidays Feature

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Regulars 8

Horoscopes

10

What’s on Guide

23

Home + Lifestyle

Contacts

26

Travel

Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen: quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen: di@intouchmagazine.com.au

28

Family + Comunity

32

Health + Wellbeing

38

Eat // Sip // Savour

Got a great story to tell? Know someone who does? Budding writer or sensational photographer? We love contributions, so drop us a line at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

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Contributors

Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen and Olivia Rodgers Graphic Design Jess Codrington and Larissa Cluff Features Writer Michelle Meehan

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While Jimmy Barnes may be one of the most successful musicians in Australian history, he isn’t exactly who you’d expect to see headlining a writers festival. Except that he’s also a best-selling author…Read More On Page 14. Photo by Stephanie Barnes.

Michelle Meehan Quentin von Essen Larissa Cluff Dana Fischetti Megan O'Sullivan Anthony Piggott Steve Mckenna

Jess Codrington Mel Murray Deborah Bartlett Justine Gaudry Anne Ward Rosmarie Milsom Kim-Cherie Davidson

Di von Essen Tanya Obreza Dr Gary Avery Kurt Palmer Diane Grover Breeanna Donohoe

CORRECTION: In the March issue of intouch Magazine we incorrectly credited the image of the Drummers at Beaumont St Carnivale - the image was taken by photographer Vin Moult of Vin Imagery.



Energy & Excitement Hallmark of New Exhibition Birdman Heart Phil Stallard Oil Acrylic on Canvas 2014

WHAT’S HAPPENING DURING APRIL AT

HOP TO IT THIS EASTER … Have fun at Charlestown Square this Easter long weekend. Enjoy The Hunter’s largest shopping destination with more choice and more parking. Friday 30 March

Good Friday

Shops – closed*

Saturday 31 March

Easter Saturday

9am – 5pm

Sunday 1 April

Easter Sunday

Shops – closed*

Monday 2 April

Easter Monday

10am – 4pm

*South Piazza cafes & restaurants, Reading Cinemas, Strike Bowling, Holey Moley + Timezone will trade over the Easter long weekend.

APRIL HOLIDAY FUN! FREE FACE PAINTING Bring the little one for free face painting in The Secret Garden! 10AM - 1PM Wednesday 18 . Thursday 19 Friday 20 . Saturday 21 . Thursday 26

MORE FUN! CALLING ALL SUPERHEROS... Join us for makeovers, merch, food & fun! CENTRE COURT . 10AM - 2PM DAILY Thursday 26 . Friday 27 . Saturday 28

MORE MOVIES Relax & recline in Reading Cinemas Charlestown’s brand new Premium Dine-In cinemas. With recliner seats and a delicious hot food menu, you can now experience luxury without the price tag. Visit readingcinemas.com.au

25 ARIL ANZAC DAY - WEDNESDAY open from 1pm - 4pm be will tre cen the Please note

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A Little Bit of Italy in Broke The 13th annual Little Bit of Italy in Broke Festival will once again bring the essence of Italian hospitality to Broke Fordwich on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th April. Stretching across 11 venues, the event brings with it a

10 Years of Annual First Class Exhibition As 2018 is the tenth year of the uniquely local and esteemed First Class series of exhibitions, the team at Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery is getting ready to celebrate! The series maintains a tradition of curating around a theme, from outstanding work produced by Hunter and Central Coast HSC Visual Arts students from the previous year, giving young artists a chance to exhibit in a professional gallery environment. The exhibition encourages audiences to experience the richness of talent and the voice of youth. Former First Class curators Kath Grushka, Jody Robinson, Ann Caddey, Tatiana Barista and Belinda Howden will all be invited to the special anniversary opening alongside current First Class curators Lisa Who and Helen Willis. The selected artworks in First Class 17 demonstrate a questioning nature - 'where are we going?' We are seeing emerging trends of anxiety, displacement and vulnerability creating a darker malaise in today's youth.

Cooks Hill Galleries (CHG) will be launching the new exhibition ‘Phil Stallard - Waterline’ on Friday 6 April with an official opening event accompanied by a music soundscape performance by guitarist John Cobbin, a musician and record producer who has recorded with the Beastie Boys and Midnight Oil. Phil Stallard describes himself as an ‘emotional abstractionist’. Within his work, you will see energy, excitement, space, power and involvement with the paint surface, a sensuality of his paint application contrasted with spontaneity! A richness of the medium, experimentation combined with his zany personality is infectious as is his enthusiasm for his art. “Stallard’s art represents good buying, providing an entry point for young buyers or value conscious art buyers. His style and the impact of his style will refresh any interior with bursts of colour and tone,” says CHG Director Mark Widdup. This online and in-gallery exhibition opens runs from 6 April to 24 April. For more information visit www.cookshillgalleries.com.au

weekend full of fun, laughter and hospitality. Relaxation and indulgence are yours for the taking, with plenty to see, do, eat and drink. Many of the venues are teaming up with local restaurants for the festival to bring gastronomical delights to visitors, with a host of options available for delicious, fresh, authentic Italian cuisine. Among some of the incredible cuisine on offer will be gourmet Italian barbecue, organic cheese and olives at Ascella Organic Wines; gourmet Italian picnic share hampers from Greenway Wines; wood-fired pizza and gelato in the Tuscan-inspired courtyard at Krinklewood; and mouthwatering pasta and soup at Lavender Ridge. Once again there’s plenty on offer for those who love cooking and creating as much as eating, with gnocchi-making classes; artisan salami presentations; cheese tastings; and Italian cooking demonstrations. Some workshops and demonstrations are free, while others charge a fee and require bookings. For the full program and more information, visit www.italyinbroke.com.au

Brock Woolard, Whitebridge High School. Manifesto: The Gay Agenda 2017. Photographs and digital video (duration 3mins), dimensions variable. ©the artist

Through the avenue of visual arts, these students are revealing sophisticated observations of topical issues including urban and environmental chaos, gender conformity and unrealistic social expectations. The big celebration is Sunday 8 April 2pm, with the exhibition running until 20 May. For more information visit artgallery.lakemac.com.au


MILLION DOLLAR RIFT

Reliving Skyhooks EASTER SUNDAY TEDDY BEARS PICNIC

at Hunter Valley Horseriding & Adventures

Grab a picnic, some friends, family and most importantly the teddy bears, roll out a rug and enjoy a wonderful family day out at Hunter Valley Horseriding & Adventures annual Teddy Bears Picnic on Easter Sunday (April 1). Treat Ted to some fresh air, and a day in the country, with pony rides, tractor hay rides to feed the animals, games to play, Go Karts, jumping castle and a fabulous Easter Egg hunt. This is an alcohol-free, fun family event with an array of adventures for all to enjoy. Of course, horse-riding will continue to operate all day throughout the Easter holidays and school holidays. For more information about school holiday activities, horseriding and the Teddy Bears Picnic email ride@huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au, phone 4930 7111 or visit www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

Bob ‘Bongo’ Starkie – the legendary Skyhooks guitarist will present Million Dollar Riff – Celebrating the Music of Skyhooks at Lizotte’s on April 28 and 29. The show will include all the hits with a smattering of rarities that need to be heard in a personal celebration of one of Australia’s most beloved bands. Skyhooks helped change the face of rock n roll in the 1970's with 15 Number 1 and Top 10 singles to their credit, as well as two of the country’s biggest selling albums of all time, Living in the 70's and Ego is Not A Dirty Word, both produced by Ross Wilson (Daddy Cool). Skyhooks were described as ‘giving the Australian music industry the enema it needed’ when, in 1974, they smashed onto the scene wearing outrageous costumes and makeup. Their debut album Living in the 70's went on to sell over 300,000 albums and was followed a year later with Ego is Not A Dirty Word. It wasn’t long before the band’s five members were celebrities – Shirley, the enigmatic curly-haired lead-singer, guitarist Red Symons, guitarist Bob Starkie, bassist and songwriter Greg Macainsh and drummer Fred Strauks. They released killer singles including Horror Movie, Ego is Not A Dirty Word, Women In Uniform and Jukebox in Siberia, and still receive high rotation radio play 40 years after first entering the charts.

Skyhooks were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame but ceased touring together after the death of lead singer Shirley in 2001. To celebrate these iconic records, Bob ’Bongo ’Starkie has pulled together an all-star Band with some of the best musicians in the business, featuring Lisa Edward on vocals (Farnham), Steve Williams on Sax/Harp and vocals (Farnham), Sean McCleod on vocals and drums (Taxiride), Micheal Christiano on Guitar and vocals and Kim May on Bass. For more information and tickets visit the Lizotte’s website at www.lizottes.com.au

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ARIES

21 March - 20 April

SUPERCARS

COMMUNITY FUN DAY Fresh from the hugely successful inaugural event in November, tickets for the second Coates Hire Newcastle 500 will go on sale in style, with a Community Fun Day in Civic Park, Newcastle, on April 28, with anyone who purchases on the day entitled to a 10% discount on Trackside tickets. Grandstand tickets will go on advanced priority sale for 2017 Grandstand ticketholders on 11 April through to 25 April, with all remaining tickets then to be offered to the public from 29th April. Some of the fans favourite drivers will return to Newcastle for the Community Fan Day, for the first time since the dramatic final race of 2017, including Shane van Gisbergen, Garth Tander, James Courtney and Mark Winterbottom. Reigning Bathurst 1000 champion David Reynolds, 2017 Teams’ Champion driver Fabian Coulthard, former Bathurst champions Chaz Mostert, Nick Percat and Will Davison, Supercars kiwi rookie Richie Stanaway and the popular first female full-time driver in the Supercars era, Simona De Silvestro, will also be on hand to meet fans and sign autographs on the day. There will be car displays, live entertainment, face painting and jumping castles for the kids, while drivers will meet with fans and sign autographs from 10:15am - 11am and 11:30am - 12:15pm on the main stage, located in Civic Park near the Art Gallery. The Nobby’s Beach Surf Lifesaving Club will be cooking a sausage sizzle, and KOFM will be broadcasting live. Don’t miss out - Saturday 28 April from 10am - 2pm at Civic Park.

Be Grateful & Pay it Forward! The Grateful Boutique has officially opened its doors in Carrington! The store is a one-for-one pay it forward initiative started by good friends Jessica Shuwalow, Gemma McBurnie and Amee Duncan and offers a simple platform for individuals and businesses to give back to the community, while also doing something positive for themselves, those they love most, their business, their clients or their employees. For every item purchased in store The Grateful takes a proportion of their profit, $1 for every parcel of $25 and increases with every $25 increment, and donates it on behalf of the customer to provide self-defence classes for women from domestic violence which was initiated and is hosted by The Sista Code. For more information, visit www.thegrateful.com.au or drop by the store and say hi – it’s at 79 Young St, Carrington. 8 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Astrologer TANYA OBREZA on what’s in the stars this month.

The cosmos is done shaking up your psyche, so you can finally breathe a sigh of relief. It’s been a traumatic time for you and the world you cherish. This next year is all about forgiving, and forgetting. Most importantly, forgiveness for yourself as well as others. Then leave the past where it belongs and focus on life’s pleasures. This month, you feel inspired - friendships flourish, and romance awaits. Established couples become more loving, while prospects seem promising for singles. So should Venus show up two tickets to heaven, you’d be daft to wave her away.

Taurus 21 April - 20 May The winds of change bring unpredictable financial trends this month. If you’ve been a thrifty Taurean for the past few months, watch out for impulsive spending sprees - especially around the new moon on the 16th. Or, if you’ve been blowing your credit rating like a higher roller, rein in your spending to regain equilibrium. Soon, you should be safely out of the red.

Gemini 21 May - 21 June The world’s getting smaller, but it can still seem like a big, lonely place when you start to question how much you really have in common with those around you. The Sun’s in the same boat right now, feeling very distant. Perhaps it’s time to find new solutions to old problems there’s little point sticking to the tried and true if it’s not working. You have some important decisions to make. Regain control - slowly.

Cancer 22 June - 22 July Visionary Jupiter fills your mind with brilliant ideas, and you’re full to bursting with imaginative ways to tackle every avenue of your life. Even if your regular work involves very little creativity, you’ll be busy dreaming up new ventures during your daily commute. You may not be able to follow each of them through, but at least one or two should come to fruition.

Leo 23 July - 22 August You’re on your high horse in a month when doing so could mean a solitary ride into the sunset. You can’t always expect others to live up to your expectations - they’re only mortal. Alternatively, if others are trying to trip you with troublesome issues, it’ll take more than heartache to weigh you down. You become doubly determined to right their wrongs. Leo resilience always wins out.

Virgo 23 August - 22 September Venus helps to spruce up your attitude and overall image this month, but of more concern is who you are, and what you feel, on the inside. Others will be fascinated by your obvious charms, but pay more attention to the suitor or partner who asks the right questions and actually listens to your answers. If you’re after a “keeper”, that is. Otherwise, just have fun!

Libra 23 September - 22 October This is it! A month of romantic possibilities. Advertise your availability and be showered with licentious reciprocation that flings you into colourful social circles. For some, new love just happens; for others, an unexpected encounter rekindles an old flame. Lasting friendships may be forged in this happy, hectic time. Health, wealth and career also get the planetary thumbs up.

Scorpio 23 October - 21 November With fortune-seeking Jupiter on-side, career ambitions to the fore. As early as the 3rd, your talents are noticed. Thinking processes become more logical, and projects get the attention they deserve. Allow yourself to be guided by more experienced colleagues. Best of all, this month’s professional passions go hand in hand with an equally fervent love life. A month for business and pleasure.

Sagittarius 22 November - 21 December Until your domestic life is sorted, nothing is going to make sense. This month’s powerful planetary emphasis on your fourth solar house reminds you that charity begins at home. Your desire to make a mark in the big wide world is admirable, but to do all-around good you must give your full attention to an urgent situation within your immediate family. If necessary, it’s time to put others’ needs first.

Capricorn 22 December - 19 January Home and hearth. That’s where your heart lies this month but, perhaps, not all’s well in your family nest. A loved one is trying to steer you in the right direction. Unfortunately, being stubborn, you may resist their encouragement and stay close to familiar paths. Remember: when you simply give an inch, you could gain a mile - or even a smile. For once, allow yourself to be guided.

Aquarius 20 January - 18 February Relentless Mars sends you into a business networking frenzy this month, but the usual scenarios may not hold the key to your success. Dig deeper and follow up all leads - no matter how unusual. The only potential hiccup - try to disappear around the 20th. Otherwise you’ll be on call 24/7 - and you certainly down want a month of all work and absolutely no play.

Pisces 19 February - 20 March With financial alarm bells ringing, it’s time for a rethink. First, you should curb those spending habits. Next, discuss finances with any family members old (or savvy) enough to raid the kitty jar. Finally, reject “too good to be true offers”, because they are. Aim for safe investment and greater work output. Romance, however, calls for less modesty. In this area, you can be as risky as you like.

GAIN STRENGTH GAIN STRENGTH

Healthy Healthy

an dan d sta ysta y

TANYA OBREZA was born in Slovenija and emigrated to Australia with her parents as a young girl. It was during her first visit to England that Tanya was introduced to astrology, and in 1980 she gained her London Faculty of Astrological Studies qualifications. Over the years, Tanya has established an extensive and wide-ranging international following, mostly due to her reassuring, down to earth presence.

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What’s on? SUNDAY, APRIL 1 Lake Mac Heritage Festival The festival continues (from March 31) with a classic vehicle display, kids Easter egg hunt, boats races and more. 9am - 4pm, Toronto Foreshore.

►COMING UP APRIL SUNDAY 1ST The Col Tegg Experience The Beach Hotel WEDNESDAY 4TH The Sun Records Allstars Wests New Lambton THURSDAY 5TH The Tommyhawks The Wickham Park Hotel FRIDAY 6TH Don Walker 48 Watt St Matt McLaren The Lucky Nicko Duo Lambton Park Hotel SATURDAY 7TH Didirri - Formaldehyde Tour 48 Watt St The Years Mezz Bar, Wallsend Greg Bryce The Wickham Park Hotel Ricky Campton Prince of Wales SUNDAY 8TH Matt McLaren Honeysuckle Hotel Kylie Jane Merewether Surfhouse THURSDAY 12TH Thundamentals The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 13TH Heaps Good Friends The Small Ballroom Original Sin INXS Show Mezz Bar, Wallsend Bobby C The Duke of Wellington SATURDAY 14TH KISStory Warners At The Bay Shivoo Mezz Bar, Wallsend James Bennett The Edwards SUNDAY 15TH The Plot in You The Small Ballroom Matt McLaren 5 Sawyers Holly Mae Battlesticks THURSDAY 19TH The Hard Aches The Cambridge Hotel Casey Bellamy Battlesticks FRIDAY 20TH Grant Walmsley Unplugged Lambton Park Hotel Kylie Jane The Junction Hotel Hurricane Fall + Jarred Taylor & The Iron Shackle Band The Wickham Park Hotel SATURDAY 21ST Gerda + 1 Prince of Wales Zane Penn Duo The Duke of Wellington SUNDAY 22ND Good Riddance The Cambridge Hotel The Crystals + Chris Montez Wests New Lambton Mark Wells The Beach Hotel WEDNESDAY 25TH Tim Rossington The Wickham Park Hotel THURSDAY 26TH Simple Plan NEX FRIDAY 27TH DJ Perry Carter Lambton Park Hotel Kempy The Duke of Wellington SATURDAY 28TH Misbehave The Beach Hotel The Australian Bee Gees Show Belmont 16s Hurricane Fall Mezz Bar, Wallsend Groovin the Moo Maitland Showground Prestige Inc Duo The Duke of Wellington

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Handmade In the Hunter Markets Located at Kevin Sobels Wines, Pokolbin, 9am - 3pm. Newcastle Jets vs. Melbourne City FC 5pm kickoff, McDonald Jones Stadium. Young Archie 2018 Budding artists between 5-18yrs can enter in their very own Archibald competition (4 age categories), run by Newcastle Art Gallery and the Archibald Prize 2017 regional tour. Entries must be received before 15 April. Visit www.nag.org.au for more information. Spiders Interactive Exhibition Explore hands-on interactives, cutting edge science and live exhibits in a touring exhibit by the Australian Museum and Questacon. Newcastle Museum, until 29 April. Entry children $7 (3+), adults $15, conc. $10, family $35. Elisabeth Cummings: Interior Landscapes Free Exhibition at Newcastle Art Gallery, until 29 April.

FRIDAY, APRIL 6 Newcastle Writers Festival Kitty Flanagan, Richard Fidler, Michael Robotham, Tracey Spicer and Joanne McCarthy are among 130 writers and thinkers at this years NWF. 6-8 April. See the program and buy tickets at www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au Jimmy Barnes - Working Class Man Tour Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Newcastle Bellydance Festival 3 days and 2 nights full of workshops, markets, The Bellydance Spectacular and the Performers Bazaar to enjoy. Newcastle Leagues Club + Wallsend Diggers, 6-8 April. Visit www.newcastlebellydance.com for more. 2018 Stroud Show Dog High Jump, pig racing, wife carrying, a ute muster, and much much more! 6+7 April. Visit www.stroudshow.com.au for more details. Newcastle Jets vs. Perth Glory 7:50pm kickoff, McDonald Jones Stadium.

SATURDAY, APRIL 7 Olive Tree Markets 9am - 3pm, Civic Park Newcastle. Newy's Biggest Plant Sale 7+8 April, 9am - 3pm, The Edwards, Newcastle.

In the SPIEGELTENT

www.spiegeltentnewcastle.com

SUN 1 - SUN 15 APRIL Blanc de Blanc - the finest cabaret and acrobatic talent from around the world, this is the main event! TUES 3 APRIL Breabach WED 4 APRIL Trash & Trevor: The Best of Trevor Ashley THURS 5 APRIL Gawurra FRI 6 APRIL The Black Sorrows SAT 7 APRIL Yana Alana + Tom Gleeson TUES 10 APRIL Livvy & Pete: The Songs of Olivia Newton John and Peter Allen WED 11 APRIL Rove McManus THURS 12 APRIL The Audreys FRI 13 APRIL Peter Helliar SUN 15 APRIL Kate Miller-Hiedke

Newcastle Beer Fest 2018 12pm - 6pm, Camp Shortland. www.newcastlebeerfest.com.au A Little Bit of Italy in Broke A weekend of Italian food, wine, festivities and fun hosted at 11 venues throughout the Broke Fordwich Wine Region. 7+8 April. See the program at www.italyinbroke.com.au

SUNDAY, APRIL 8 Ben Ean Cessnock STOMP Festival A free event for the whole family, offering a slightly quirky take on entertainment, lifestyle, fun, food and wine. Don't miss the big Grape Stomp! www.cessnockstomp.com 'We All Need A Little Therapy' Dog Walk Market stalls, food, raffle, novelty dog competitions, agility dog demonstrations and more. Register online at www.stickytickets.com.au or on the day from 9am. Croudace Bay Park (near the boat ramp).

MONDAY, APRIL 9 Seniors Concert Join Lake Macquarie City Council for a morning of music and entertainment by the Funky Do Da's and Lisa Crouch. 9:30am – 12pm, Belmont 16s. Tickets are free but bookings essential (over 55yrs) www.seniorsconcert.eventbrite.com.au

THURSDAY, APRIL 12 Musica Viva: Avi Avital & Giocoso String Quartet Newcastle Conservatorium of Music.

FRIDAY, APRIL 13

FRIDAY, APRIL 20 Newcastle Craft Alive Show 3 days of learning, creating, jam packed workshops, shopping, and inspiration. 9.30am - 4pm, 20-22 April, Newcastle Racecourse. Tickets $12, www.craftalive.com.au The Naked Magicians See the world's funniest and naughtiest magic show at Belmont 16s. Street Eats on the Green Adamstown Bowling Club, 6pm - 9pm.

TUESDAY, APRIL 24 War Memorial Grove Candlelight Vigil Civic Park, 5pm to 7pm.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25 Anzac Day 2018 Newcastle City Council events are as follows: 5am - Anzac Day Dawn Service, Nobbys Beach; 9.15am - Anzac Day March, Hunter St to Civic Park; 10am - United Commemoration Service, Civic Park; All day - Anzac Field of Remembrance, Newcastle Museum; 12pm to 4pm - Fort Scratchley Firing of the Guns and Open Day.

THURSDAY, APRIL 26 SCA Junior Mountain Biking Camp This camp offers kids aged 8 - 16yrs the chance to learn and improve skills through Glenrock under experienced coaches! 26+27 April. www.sportscampsaustralia.com.au

FRIDAY, APRIL 27

Tuff Truck Challenge 2018 Competing teams push themselves and their vehicles to the absolute limit... You name it they drive over it! 13-15 April, Milbrodale. Visit www.tufftruck.com.au for more. Moscow Ballet La Classique - The Nutcracker Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Protecting our Future - An Evening with Bob Brown Come and hear the former leader of the Australia Greens, medical doctor and environmentalist discuss protecting the Tarkine and the implications for all of us. City Hall, tickets $40, www.trybooking.com Disney’s Aladdin Jr Presented by Hunter Drama. 1321 April, The Playhouse.

SATURDAY, APRIL 14 Ryan Ansell Investment Solutions Race Day Newcastle Racecourse.

SUNDAY, APRIL 15 NewRun - Newcastle Running Festival Half Marathon, Hill to Harbour 10km, Fort5 5km and the 2km Kids race. Visit www.hevents.com.au

TUESDAY, APRIL 17 School Holiday Workshops Kids can join Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery to enjoy various art activities this school holidays. 17-26 April, bookings required. Visit artgallery.lakemac.com.au/learn Top Shots Breakfast A must-see lineup of high calibre speakers from across Australia at Hunter School of Design. Tickets: www.humanitix.com/event

THURSDAY, APRIL 19 RAW Presents Magnify A showcase of 30+ creative artists at Central Bar, Newcastle. Tickets $25 available from www.rawartists.org/newcastle

Photo Credit: Renae Saxby

The Gumball A music lovers paradise! Dashville, Belford, 27-29 April. www.thegumball.com.au Australian Beach Games An exciting new multi-sport travelling festival that will bring together 15+ sports, evening food trucks, live music, sports bars, carnival rides, a jumping castle, an outdoor night movie plus more! Find more information and register your team or yourself at www.australianbeachgames.com.au. Nobbys Beach 27-29 April.

SATURDAY, APRIL 28 Hunter Melanoma Foundation Race Day Join the Mounting Yard Marquee (www.trybooking.com), the Mark Murphy Lounge or general entry at Newcastle Racecourse. www.newcastleracecourse.com.au Street Feast Foreshore Park, Newcastle East, 4pm - 8pm.

SUNDAY, APRIL 29 Newcastle Record and Cd Fair 1000's of vinyls, cd's and music memorabilia. Uniting Church Hall Beaumont Steet Hamilton, 9am - 4pm. Dog Day Afternoon Dog Rescue Newcastle and The Family Hotel will be hosting rescue pups from 12:302pm, afterwards all (socialised) dogs are welcome! A Sista Celebration Fundraiser Lunch A fundraiser lunch for the Got Your Back Sista charity. Tickets $89, Merewether Surfhouse. www.trybooking.com

Do you have a local event or gig coming up next month? Email us before the 15th of this month at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au


What’s on? Coming Up IN MAY

COMING UP//

Live & Cookin’

WEDNESDAY 2ND Fastlove - A Tribute to George Michael Wests New Lambton.

FRIDAY 4TH

31 Morehead Street, Lambton

Tocal Field Days See today's farming on show through exhibitors, demonstrations and much more! 9am - 5pm (4pm Sun), Tocal. 4-6 May. Visit www.tocalfielddays.com

SATURDAY 5TH Barry Humphries – The Man Behind The Mask A revealing, funny and moving trip through Humphries' colourful life and theatrical career. 5+6 May, Civic Theatre. Amazing A spectacular mix of circus, magic, comedy, audience participation and Las Vegas style stage illusions! Lake Macquarie Performing Arts Centre. Tickets: www.trybooking.com

FRIDAY 11TH The Orchid & the Crow A comedy cabaret about losing parts of yourself and finding faith in an unexpected place - and Lance Armstrong. 11+12 May, The Playhouse.

SATURDAY 12TH Archibald Prize 2017 Held annually since 1921 this prize is prestigious and controversial. It's Australia’s foremost portraiture prize, with the winning artist receiving $100,000 prize money. See the 2017 winner - Mitch Cairns Agatha GotheSnape at Newcastle Art Gallery from 12 May - 24 June. Menopause the Musical Inspired by a hot flush and a bottle of wine! Belmont 16s.

THURSDAY 17TH A Mystery Musical The Very Popular Theatre Company team have carefully selected a well-known and award-winning musical to produce in 2018. The only catch? You won't know what it is until opening night! 17-19 May, The Playhouse.

SATURDAY 19TH Morpeth Chapel Jazz Held across three churches, shops and pubs in Morpeth, soak up the atmosphere of New Orleans and traditional jazz bands playing in and around the town! Check the program at www.chapeljazz.com, 19+20 May. Tex Perkins – The Man in Black, The Songs + Story of Johnny Cash Civic Theatre.

SUNDAY 20TH Julia Morris – Lift and Separate: Golden Jubilee Tour Civic Theatre.

TUESDAY 22ND Quiet Faith A uniquely presented immersive experience, the audience are seated inside the set. 22-26 May, Civic Theatre.

Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED

Bondi Cigars Friday May 11th, 2018 When the Bondi Cigars were first gigging around Sydney in late 1989, they moved in a Blues/R&B circuit which, while robust enough since the 60s, had then been sparked into new life by the "blues revival" of the mid-80's, spearheaded by Robert Cray, Joe Louis Walker, Stevie Ray Vaughan and similar crusaders. And while many of the Sydney bands from that era have vanished, become historical footnotes or undergone major changes, the Cigars - true survivors that they are - have battled on, without ever compromising their distinctive nononsense style, to become a leading force in Australian R&B. Apart from the timeless, unpretentious nature of the music, an obvious reason for the longevity of the Cigars must be the ongoing musical teamwork of two foundation members, Shane Pacey and Al Britton, who continue to co-lead the band. This also explains the consistency of the band's sound. Instantly recognisable for 17 years now, despite personnel changes and occasional stylistic variations The Cigars have consistently delivered the goods; with Down In The Valley nominated in the 2003 ARIA awards for Best Blues & Roots Album, 1995's After Closing Time awarded Best Blues Album at the 1996 Lithgow Blues Festival, and two of their songs, Lead Me Not Into Temptation and Intensive Care, chosen to feature on the popular ABC Seachange album. As with all great bands, the sum of the whole exceeds the sum of the parts, and the Bondi Cigars are no exception.

Win!

Thanks to the crew at Lizotte’s we have 2 x double passes (show only) to give away to 2 lucky readers. Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au/Giveaways to enter – entries close April 30th, 2018.

APRIL MENTAL AS ANYTHING Friday 6 DANCIN IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN Saturday 7

LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH BRIEN MCVERNON Sunday 8 THE MAD HATTER PRESENTS DEEP PURPLE’S MACHINE HEAD Friday 13 HARRY MANX Saturday 14 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH THE BLUES BROTHERS REBOOTED Sunday 15 NEVERENDING 80’S Friday 20 + Saturday 21 STARS Sunday 22 A TRIBUTE TO WOODSTOCK Friday 27 BOB STARKIE (SKYHOOKS) Saturday 28 +

Lazy Sunday Lunch 29

THE WHITLAMS Monday 30

MAY MARK WILKINSON Thursday 3 VAN THE MAN Friday 4 ANGRY OLD MEN Saturday 5 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH THE EDITH PIAF STORY Sunday 6 THE CHERUBS Thursday 10 BONDI CIGARS Friday 11 THE IDEA OF NORTH Saturday 12 MOTHERS DAY LUNCH WITH THE BEATNIX Sunday 13

APR 7 | MAY 5 | JUNE 2 CIVIC PARK 9AM - 3PM

MORE SHOWS added daily. LIVE SHOWS starting from $65 (including dinner)

Wednesday’s

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What's On

Tuff Truck Challenge 2018 Friday 13th - Sunday 15th April The Tough Dog Tuff Truck Challenge (TTC) is a three day, as tough as they come 4WD competition event in Milbrodale, about 1hr 20mins from Newcastle. The TTC is one of the most gruelling and enduring 4WD competitions you will find, providing a real test for competitors as their vehicles and themselves are pushed beyond their limits. Boulders, rock, mud, giant tyres, deep holes, ruts - you name it they will attempt to conquer it - all in hope of taking out the annual Tuff Truck trophy. Your weekend will be made with top notch camping facilities (families and late-night revellers separate), a band on the Saturday night, full catering, kids activities and entertainment, an exhibitor’s alley, and more. 3 days of general camping for 18yrs and over starts at $120 (prepaid price, shower pass extra), with family, teen and day pass options available - kids under 12yrs are free. Visit www.tufftruck.com.au for more information and tickets.

HIGHLIGHTS

ON

Now!

Spiders - The Interactive Exhibition

Until April 29th Featuring fascinating exhibits, interactive displays, and 11 species of live spiders, this exhibition has been created to educate, amuse and excite those of all ages! Until April 29 you can get up close to tarantulas, funnel webs, small netcasting spiders and giant water spiders. Don't miss this rare opportunity at Newcastle Museum! Entry: Children (3+) $7; Adults $15; Concession $10; Family (2 adults & 2 kids) $35.

NewRun - Newcastle Running Festival Sunday 15th April NewRun is back for their 11th year running (literally) with the Marathon Tyres Half Marathon (21.1km), Newcastle Herald Hill To Harbour (10km), Pure Performance Fort5 (5km) and the Hunter Valley Orthodontics 2K4kids (2km). Suiting everyone from novice run/walkers to serious athletes, NewRun has an event for you, with each course, especially the Half Marathon, ranking as one of the most scenic and beautiful running courses in Australia. Both the kids and the 5km courses are flat and fast, but expect some hills for the other longer events as you make your way up Memorial Drive! You can register online now at www.hevents.com.au, or on the day (late fee applies). For spectators - you can catch all the action from Queens Wharf where the finishing area is located.

Danger Music - 1.30pm Saturday 7th. In 2016, ABC broadcaster Emma Ayres became Eddie. His 2017 book, Danger Music, recounts his time as a music teacher in Afghanistan, and his internal identity issues along with the children's ongoing struggles for survival. Tickets $25. NWF Free Family Day - Sunday 8th will be a day of free fun for book-lovers of all ages! Come dressed as your favourite character to win a prize, create stories and illustrations, have Friday 6th - Sunday 8th April fun with music, and see Digby Fixit live! Sessions are run from The Newcastle Writers Festival (NWF) is here again (see 10am to 1pm at Wheeler Place. our feature story on page 18) and the time has come to World Hurl Anti-Slam - A free event, where everyone is welcome choose which events to go to. Here are our top picks! to participate! Anti-slam has no rules and is a reaction to the competitive nature of slam poetry. Be ready for the unexpected! Beyond the Headlines: How Investigative Journalists Work Registration to perform is from 2pm. Sunday 8th 2.30pm, at With well-known investigative reporter Louise Milligan and Wheeler Place. multi-award winning journalist Nick Toscano, hosted by Jane Free events are a 'first come first served' basis for entry, Hutcheon, 11.30am Saturday 7th. If anyone is interested in how these outspoken, driven journalists break such explosive stories, visit www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au for more information on ticketed events and the full program. then this one's for you. Tickets $15.

A FULL PROGRAM

at Newcastle Writers Festival

Newcastle Beer Fest 2018 Saturday, 7th April Last year's two-day event was a massive sell-out success, and this year is sure to be no different! This year's event has changed back to a one-day, 6hr event at Camp Shortland (near Nobbys Beach) - featuring American born, Byron Bay based soul music sensation Lisa Hunt, an amazing array of food, and only the best independent Aussie owned and made beer companies. www.newcastlebeerfest.com.au

Skeye High Photography

intouch Magazine is proud to be the ONLY locally owned and produced publication in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.

12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au


Bringing Craft Alive! Friday 20th - Sunday 22nd April CraftAlive is coming to Newcastle Racecourse for three big days of learning, creating, shopping, and inspiration! There will be something for every taste with 60+ amazing exhibitors, where you can see and buy everything from supplies to finished goods. Get hands-on in the two jam packed workshop areas run by experts featuring card making, new patchwork techniques and more! A highlight would have to be a workshop with Mandy from the Queensland-based Sew Quirky - she will be running 3 classes each day, giving you the chance to create one of her original quirky designs (see Frankie the Frenchie above!). The show will run from 9.30am 4pm each day, with tickets from $12 (online price, kids under 14 free). Workshops must be booked online. www.craftalive.com.au

Australian Beach Games

SuperHero Fest! Thursday, 26th - Saturday 28th April Prep your capes for Newcastle’s first SuperHero Fest – at Charlestown Square! If you’ve always wanted to shout ‘To infinity and beyond!’ and not feel too crazy, then head to Charlestown Square these school Holidays for the new Superheros Fest. To be held over three, fun-filled, action-packed days in Centre Court from Thursday 26 to Saturday 28 April, here’s your chance to celebrate heroes (or perhaps villains?) with kids of all ages. To find out what your superhero name is, let your cape fly in the superhero photo booth and fuel your powers with all the superfood you can imagine! Get ready for a superhero makeover, stock up on merch and check the details at www.charlestownsquare.com.au

Barry Humphries

The Man Behind the Mask

NEXT MONTH

Saturday 5th + Sunday 6th May Well known celebrated performer Barry Humphries will be at Civic Theatre Newcastle to bare all in his brand new show Barry Humphries: The Man Behind the Mask. Humphries will take Aussie audiences on a revealing trip through his colourful life and theatrical career when he tours Australia next month, hitting cities nationwide including Newcastle, on May 5+6. In an intimate, confessional evening – seasoned with highly personal, sometimes startling, and

Friday 27th - Sunday 29th April What better way to celebrate sport and our amazing country than to play sport on and around the beach! The new Australian Beach Games Festival is an exciting multisport festival bringing together sports played on and around the beach. Having already successfully taken place at Frankston (VIC) and Bunbury (WA), Newcastle's Nobbys Beach is next on the list on April 27-29. Twelve+ different sports are to be staged over the weekend such as swimming, triathlon, ultimate frisbee, touch football and dodgeball, with entries open to teams, individuals, clubs, families and schools. Alongside all the sporting action will be a Free Food Truck Carnivale, with entertainment, an outdoor movie, food trucks, carnival rides, sports bars, plus more! The Carnivale will be open from 4pm - 10pm on Friday, 11am - 10pm on Saturday and 11am - 8pm on Sunday. To register or for more information visit www.australianbeachgames.com.au

occasionally outrageous stories – Australia’s best loved entertainer will be peeling off his mask to introduce the man behind the clown. Humphries has held a mirror to Australia and Australians for more than 60 years, revealing our virtues, our shortcomings, our triumphs and failings through adored characters Dame Edna Everage, Sir Les Paterson and Sandy Stone. Audiences can expect a virtuoso, comic, solo performance filled with laughter, drama and surprise. There will be an opportunity to ask questions and the magic of technology may even allow appearances – or interruptions – by unexpected guests. Barry Humphries: The Man Behind the Mask is sure to be a sell-out event so grab your tickets quick at www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

COOKS HILL GALLERIES PRESENTS

PHIL STALLARD: WATERLINE April 6-30, 2018

Register your interest with CHG to view our 2018 exhibitions at www.cookshillgalleries.com.au Join the mailing list!

67 BULL STREET, COOKS HILL 2300 OPEN FRI, SAT & MON 11AM-6PM, SUN 2PM-6PM, TUES BY APPOINTMENT PH 0418 492 259

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JIMMY BARNES Working Class

Royalty

14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

He’s Australian music royalty, the working class man whose gravelly vocals and on-stage persona epitomised the spirit of the pub rock scene in the 1980's. But while Jimmy Barnes may be one of the most successful musicians in Australian history, he isn’t exactly who you’d expect to see headlining a writers festival.

INTRODUCTION MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer PROLOGUE JIMMY BARNES

That was, of course, until two years ago when his self-penned memoirs, Working Class Boy, blew all preconceptions out of the water, selling 119,000 copies in its first year of release to top the Australian biography charts and become one of the top five books sold in Australia in 2016. The veteran rocker followed it up last year with the second volume of his autobiography, Working Class Man, which traces Barnes’ legendary career with Cold Chisel and as a solo artist. A searingly honest reflection on success, fame and addiction, it chronicles his tortuous battle with drugs and alcohol as well as his fight to rebuild his life with the love and support of his wife and his family. Barnes will bring his story to life on stage as part of the Newcastle Writers Festival this month, with his critically acclaimed Working Class Man: An Evening of Stories & Songs also featuring stripped back versions of the songs that have shaped his journey. While the April 6 event has unfortunately already sold out, Intouch Magazine can give you an insight into the show - and the man himself – after Barnes sat down with us to answer a few of our questions about his new book. Intouch Magazine: Hi Jimmy, and congratulations on your latest book Working Class Man, and its hugely successful predecessor, Working Class Boy. You’ve been many things throughout your career – a singer, a songwriter, an entertainer, an icon. Did you ever imagine you’d add bestselling author to that list? Jimmy Barnes: I never thought I’d be a writer, especially a successful one, but it seemed like a natural thing to do. I have always told stories and books are like long songs, I guess. Having spent decades telling other people’s stories on stage through song, what made you decide to tell your own story and how difficult was it, as a writer, to make the switch to the longer format of a book? Writing started out as a way for me to make sense of a lot of things in my life. Like I said in the answer before, books are not dissimilar to songs. I think in singing songs, I shared the emotions that were bottled up inside me - pain, fear, love, hope and even anger. In writing a book, I not only touched on the emotions but also the details of those things that caused me pain or brought me joy. In your latest book you open up about the years of rehab, therapy and support it took for you to deal with the violence and abuse you suffered during childhood and the addictions you battled throughout your adult life. Would you describe the experience of writing both of your books as confronting, or cathartic? It was both. There were things that came to me during the writing process that I had blocked from my memory for a long time, and it was very painful when these things saw the light of day again. But at the same time, it was definitely the start of a period of healing for me. Opening up all this has helped me make sense of a lot of my life. I am still a work in progress but aren’t we all. You deal with some pretty serious subject matter – domestic violence, substance abuse, suicide, alcoholism, poverty. In a culture that all too often shies away from talking about or dealing with these topics, what does it mean to you to be able to use your profile – and your own painful past - to raise awareness of these issues? Like I said, at the start this was a purely selfish thing to do. It was for me and me alone. But I found the more I spoke about this openly, the more it helped me deal with it. And I found out


Thanks for taking the time to answer these questions for Intouch Magazine Jimmy, we can’t wait to see you back in town for the Newcastle Writers Festival!

“At the start this was a purely selfish thing to do. It was for me and me alone. But I found the more I spoke about this openly, the more it helped me deal with it. And I found out that there are a lot of people out there just like me, struggling to get through this life alone. that there are a lot of people out there just like me, struggling to get through this life alone. I am glad that I have been able to share my story. It doesn’t matter if you are a singer or a butcher. We all feel pain, and we all need someone to talk to. My life isn’t that special. I’m just like everybody else, and we all need help sometimes to make sense of it all. If there is one thing you could achieve through telling your own story, what would it be? To start a conversation about domestic violence or depression or poverty. Too many people are living in poverty right in our own country, and they shouldn’t be. Your story, of course, was also full of such incredible highs, both professionally and personally. What has been your most enduring moment of happiness? Of all the things that have happened to me, the best thing must be having a family. Jane, my children and my grandchildren bring me joy every day. I am a lucky man.

Jimmy’s new book Working Class Man will be in the spotlight topic when he officially opens the 2018 Newcastle Writers Festival on Friday, April 7. Thanks to publishers HarperCollins Australia for permitting us to tempt our reader's taste buds with an excerpt from the book – which will be available for purchase throughout the Festival.

Prologue It’s been a long time since you first stepped onto the stage and in front of a microphone – but it's obvious you still feel a burning passion for performing. What drives you as a musician today? I still have things to say. Things to share and things to get off my chest. Music, and family, are clearly two of the biggest passions in your life. But what else inspires or motivates you? I am hyperactive. I like to be busy. I like to work hard. But there are a lot of inspiring people with amazing stories out there. People inspire me. I meet great human beings all the time. Life is good for me, but it takes constant work and care to be the best you can be. And I’m still trying to be a better person.

- Auckland, 2012

I am alone in the darkness. With my eyes squeezed shut I scream. ‘Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!’ It comes straight from the darkest depths of my soul. My heart is pounding. I can feel the blood rushing through my veins. I move around the room, slowly at first but gathering speed. Every night it’s the same thing. Alone, I wait to see if I am going to make it. Wait until I am told that I am all right. ‘Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!’ The sound is stronger. Louder and higher. Bang! I slam my fist into the wall, leaving indentations of my knuckles. Bang! I hit it again. This time I nearly go through to the other side. ‘Pleeeeeeeeeeeease Pleeeeeeassssse he-elp meeeeeeeeeee!’ It spews from deep inside of me, tearing at my throat on its way out of my body and into the room. A room that is dirty with graffiti scrawled across the walls. I lash out again at the Continued next page ►

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“My world is spinning out of control but up here I can still find myself. Whatever happens to me for the rest of the day is gone. All that matters is them and me.”

(Continued)

filthy, stained walls. Bang! Bang! I hit again and again. There is movement in the room. It’s nearly time. ‘Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!’ It’s a call that only those who really know me understand. Even they don’t know why I go through this every night. I feel like I am expelling the poison from deep inside of me, out of my system. I have to purge myself of all the toxic energy that is in my way, blocking me. I look into the mirror that is covered in condensation. The room feels like an oven. There is smoke coming under the door. I can see the shadow of the man I once was looking back at me, asking the same questions. Every night it is the same questions.

‘Can I get through this? Will I survive tonight? Am I good enough?’ I take one last look at the face in the mirror. I am not going down tonight. Not without a fight anyway. I’m as ready as I’ll ever be to do this. The door flies open and a blinding light fills the room. The muffled noise I have been hearing in the background has turned to a roar. It’s the same thing every night. The same ritual, every single night before I go on stage. ‘Good Evening, New Zealand!’ Bang! The band kicks in like a freight train, unstoppable and relentless. Just like my life. It rolls down the track way too fast and the only thing holding it down is the speed at which I’m travelling. With every song, we take it up a notch in tempo, in volume and in intensity. My world is spinning out of control but up here I can still find myself. Whatever happens to me for the rest of the day is gone. All that matters is them and me. The connection that is formed every night on stage between me and the audience. By the end of the set it sounds like a hurricane tearing through each town that we visit. And then it grinds to a screaming halt. Jackie, my son, crashes down on as many drums as he can hit at once and it is over. ‘Thank you.’ 16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

I hold up a towel and a bottle of water and shake the sweat from my hair. The crowd is screaming for more but we have given enough. Two encores and a two-hour set. I walk off stage, the same way I walk off every night. The booze that I poured down my throat while on stage has taken me beyond reach. As we leave the venue people thump the car, begging us to stop and talk. Girls in short skirts and high heels, too much eye makeup and lipstick freshly applied, smiling at me through the windows of the slow-moving car, looking for a good time. Guys with wild eyes and bulging pockets, full of God knows what, wanting to party until the next show, sway in front of the car. I’ve seen them all before and probably have taken them up on their offers. I can’t remember. Unable to talk to me anymore, my wife Jane sits in the car saying nothing. We drive in silence to the hotel. The casino in Auckland is the best hotel in town and we have booked a big suite. The biggest they have. Maybe it will be big enough so that we won’t have to talk anymore. We are both sick of talking. Talking and nothing ever changing. Jane has tried everything to reach me. Everything to help me. But I am beyond help. I stare at the road, wishing the car would travel faster so we could get there and I could consume every drug that I have hidden in my bag. We pull into the driveway and move to the elevator with our heads down, trying not to be stopped by the Saturday night crowd of party animals and chronic gamblers, all down on their luck and looking for somewhere to get fucked up. We get to the room and lock the door. The quiet is good for a minute and then I turn on the television to break the deafening silence. We take all that we have as quickly as we can. Trying hard not to say anything that would start a fight, I pace the room from end to end. Trying to wear myself out and stop myself from walking away. Jane falls into bed and I follow a little later, trying not to wake her up. There is no light coming into this room. The air conditioning is screaming as it blows the cold stale drug-filled smoke from one room to the next in our hotel suite. Only hours before, we flew into Auckland on a tour that felt the same as the last, that felt the same as the one before. It’s as if we desperately try to keep moving, knowing that if we stop too long, one of us might die. The motion is all that is keeping our hearts beating. I have

dragged Jane all the way from her old life, full of hope, into my world, my own personal hell, and there is no way out. Not for me anyway. I can hear Jane sleeping; she breathes in and then breathes out, her lungs gasping for air. The only time we seem to breathe just air is when we are passed out. Otherwise we are trying to force something toxic into our bodies. Anything, as long as it stops the pain. Next to me on the bedside table I have placed everything I could find in the minibar. Scotch, vodka, bourbon, gin. I am in the process of pouring it all down my throat as fast and as quietly as I can, so as not to wake her. I am gagging as I wash down as many sleeping tablets as I can. This is how I get to sleep these days. In the haze I think about it all ending. Not waking up. Never having to face myself again. The red light on the television even seems bright to me as I pull an eye mask over my eyes and pray for peace. I wake to the sound of Jane in the next room, sending empty bottles out the door with the room service girl. My eyes are nearly stuck together but I prise them apart and look at the time. Ten o’clock. I walk into the lounge. Jane is trying to be upbeat and happy. I can see by the red rings around her eyes she’s been crying again but she smiles at me anyway. ‘Let’s eat something and then go for a walk and get some fresh air.’ Jane starts every day trying to be positive but I can tell it’s getting harder. ‘I don’t want to do this anymore. Can we just start again, please?’ I nod my head and try to smile. ‘Sure baby, let’s do that.’ The lounge room is the size of a basketball court and everywhere I look I see something that reminds me of something else I did wrong the night before. How can we be living in such luxury and feel like we have so little? We are just being ungrateful. We have everything in the world but we don’t appreciate it. I head to the dressing room to get some clothes. I pick up my jeans from the floor and pull them on and then I see it. The end of last night suddenly runs through my head like an old newsreel. Scratchy and unclear. I remember drinking the minibar but I don’t remember getting back up. But I know I did. I can see the evidence right there in front of my eyes. Tied around the clothes rail is the dressing gown cord, just where I must have left it. It all comes flooding back. The rail, the cord and me with the cord around my neck waiting to die. But I didn’t. It’s not that easy to die, apparently. I quickly take the cord down and place it back with the dressing gown. No one must ever know about this. I don’t want to remember this. This will never happen again. {This is an extract from Working Class Man by Jimmy Barnes, published by HarperCollins Australia and available now.} ■

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will also notice some familiar faces on the line-up, including “Sometimes the one type of music can become a little Maitland-based favourite Dave Wells. sedate after a while, it’s like the sun comes up and the sun The gifted musician, who has quickly garnered a word of goes down… it’s kind of good to flow with a soundtrack that mouth reputation as one of the Hunter's finest songwriters represents a full day of all the swings and motions. and performers, is a true master of the craft with an ability to “A lot of those bands when they go together on the poster you see a lot of that contrast, but on the day of the festival the command moving melodies and lyrics in equal measure. Spaciously intense and progressive, Wells’ music is music just flows from one end to the other, we try to make it imbued with his indie folk and alt-rock influences. A live solo as seamless as possible.” recording of his upcoming single Picasso’s Cloud has already This year’s event will take place from April 27-29, with 27 bands and musicians on offer headlined by the hugely popular received generous airplay via interstate ABC radio, alongside the early video release of ‘Run Free’, which is still building Melbourne-based hip hop artist Remi. strength via YouTube. Another act sure to draw plenty of attention is English While it’s rare for an artist to appear two years in a row on indie rock band The Cribs, who will take to the intimate The Gum Ball line-up, Wells’ powerful songwriting abilities and surrounds of Dashville before kicking off a wider Australian exceptional performance last year saw the sought-after Hunter tour that includes gigs in Brisbane, Perth, Sydney, Adelaide musician invited to make another trip out to Dashville in 2018. and Melbourne. Also representing the local music scene will be the everThe band, whose core members include twins Gary and popular Hunter “supergroup” known as the Dashville Progress Ryan Jarman and their younger brother Ross, will be playing songs from their latest album, 24-7 Rock Star Shit, which was Society, while French Canadian blues outfit Les Hôtesses WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer d'Hilaire, as well as fellow Canadians The Creepshow and released last year after being recorded in a frenzied five-day Terra Lightfoot, will add to the international flavour of the session with Nirvana producer Steve Albini. From stadium rock and folk melodies to a dollop of blues Described by Gary as a “raw” and “stripped-back” offering, festival. sung in French, there’s nothing quite like the genre-bending There’s plenty of massive Australian talent on the bill as collection of artists gathered together on The Gum Ball line-up the songs represent a return to the style favoured by the well, with everyone from The Bamboos to Butterfingers, as UK band back in the early 2000's when they first started each year. A diverse mix of sounds and styles, it is one of the well as Dave Grainy ‘N’ The Coral Snakes filling out another recording music. most popular aspects of the boutique music festival run by impressively diverse line-up. “(The recordings are) really immediate, really raw and it organiser Matt Johnston on his family’s Lower Belford property, Along with its musical element, The Gum Ball also offers really represents where we are at this point, and that’s all I known as Dashville. Now in its 13th year, the three-day event regularly attracts really want from a record. Something that’s stripped-back and gourmet food and market stalls, kids’ crèche, yoga, skate demos, workshops, live art and a very popular late night unsterilised,” he said. more than 1500 music lovers of all ages keen to hear silent disco. “I miss that in what’s in vogue today, and I’m sure other from a variety of emerging and established Australian and Tickets include full weekend and Saturday only entry for people do.” international artists. adults, youths, children and pensioners. To find out more, While this may be the first time Gum Ball fans have had “People do love the mix in the music, we do get a lot of including the full line-up, visit www.dashville.com.au/gumball a chance to see The Cribs in action, regular festival-goers feedback about that,” Johnston said. Dave Wells

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FROM RADICAL FARMER TO ROCKSTAR The Stories behind the Stories at NWF 2018 WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

There’s no better place than a writers festival to go behind the scenes of your favourite story and discover just what drove the author to tell that particular tale. And that’s exactly what book lovers of all ages can do in Newcastle this month when 130 writers converge on the city for the sixth annual Newcastle Writers Festival. The three-day event will include 80 sessions inspired by the theme “Discover the stories behind the stories”, offering an insight into the motivations, inspirations and strong-held beliefs of some of Australia’s most respected writers and public figures. The festival will kick off on Friday, April 6 with a strong opening line-up that includes a literary lunch with best-selling writer Di Morrissey, who has sold more than two million books during her 25-year career. She will chat with NBN newsreader Natasha Beyersdorf about the places and people that inspire her work, including her new book The Red Coast. A poetry workshop, local history masterclass and the presentation of winners for the Newcastle Short Story Award

There will also be plenty of local authors in the spotlight at will also feature on day one of the festival. However, the the festival, including Port Stephens writer Joanna Atherfold undisputed highlight is sure to be the sold-out opening night Finn, whose debut book, Watershed, will be launched at the gala of stories, and songs with Australian rock and roll icon festival by award-winning Australian writer Robert Drewe on turned critically acclaimed author Jimmy Barnes. April 7. The Cold Chisel frontman will share the inspiring and The pair met at the inaugural Newcastle Writers Festival heart-breaking stories behind his personal and professional in 2013, with Drewe continuing to mentor Atherfold Finn since life as part of a national tour to promote the release of the that time. Aside from the book launch, the pair will continue second instalment of his memoirs, Working Class Man. their conversation at another session on April 8 (When the A packed schedule of both paid and free sessions will Past and Present Collide). continue on Saturday, April 7 and Sunday, April 8, featuring “I was given the opportunity to interview Robert Drewe everyone from investigative journalists Joanne McCarthy and at the first festival, and this opportunity gave me a link to Louise Milligan, comedian Kitty Flanagan and actor Steve a respected Australian writer whose generosity, literary Bisley to athlete and mental health advocate Joe Williams, experience and publication knowledge resulted in an ongoing feminist commentator Tracey Spicer, radical farmer Charles mentoring relationship that I value beyond words,” she said. Massy and best-selling crime writer Michael Robotham. Atherfold Finn’s festival duties will also see her in The Newcastle Writers Festival’s founding director discussion with fellow Newcastle author and entertainment Rosemarie Milsom said the festival was shaping up to be another great event, with panel discussions, readings, one-on- journalist Nick Milligan (Trading Stories, April 7) as they discuss the allure of short stories and how the Hunter shapes one interviews and book launches covering topics as diverse their work. as the environment, Indigenous languages, the wellness There’s little secret to the way the Hunter has shaped the industry, Newcastle’s music history and the impact of the work of Newcastle Herald contributor Greg Ray and his wife #MeToo movement. “I am looking forward to welcoming some of Australia’s best Sylvia, with the couple having self-published a series of ► writers and thinkers to the inner-city in April,” she said.

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books that use photographs and stories to illuminate the region’s rich history. Ray will discuss the long-lasting effect of World War I on families in the Hunter at Newcastle City Hall on April 7 in what Milsom has selected as one of her highlights of this year’s program. Other sessions not to be missed on April 7 according to the festival director include The Meaning of Water with Newcastle’s Scott Bevan and fellow writers Jesse Blackadder and Jock Serong, Beyond Mad Max: Steve Bisley in Conversation, and Writing the Past: Richard Fidler in Conversation with Gretel Killeen. “I was struck by how three writers tackled the challenge of writing about the allure and danger of water,” Milsom said. “In his politically charged novel On the Java Ridge, Jock Serong takes us on a fictional trip with a group of surfers who encounter asylum seekers scrambling for survival after their boat smashes apart on a reef, while Jesse Blackadder writes with great insight about a family struggling to cope after their child drowns in a backyard pool. “In The Harbour, Newcastle Herald journalist Scott Bevan combines history, journalism and memoir and an allencompassing exploration of the jewel in Sydney’s crown – Sydney Harbour.

Dine Throughout Race-Day at the Chevals Buffet! An exciting theatre of sport, culture, fashion and cuisine, race day is the perfect backdrop for fine-dining fun at Chevals Restaurant and recent changes to the menu mean that you can now enjoy a tantalising, chef-inspired, three-course buffet with prime trackside views at every weekend race day. The introduction of the Chef-inspired buffet was customer-driven - recognising that race-goers have a need to dine throughout the day – returning to the track throughout the day and back to the restaurant after each race.

“Most people, meanwhile, will know actor Steve Bisley for his breakout role in Mad Max and later in the TV series Water Rats. “He has written two volumes of memoir and the most recent includes his struggles with depression and addiction. “He is very forthright and knows how to tell a good story.” Milsom is also encouraging the youngest members of the family to get involved in this year’s festival, with a free family fun day, thanks to a partnership with the locally run Catfish Foundation, being held in Wheeler Place on Sunday April 8 from 10am to 1pm. “Kids can dust off their Book Week costumes and come as their favourite character to this event featuring a dynamic line-up of local and visiting children’s writers,” she said. “There will be a bookmaking tent, free face painting and music.” Around two-thirds of this year’s program of events are free, while ticketed events start from $15 per person. Tickets are available from Ticketek, with no bookings required for free sessions. ■

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For more information or to download the festival program visit www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au

Start the day with your choice of entrée from the extensive Charcuterie and Antipasto or perhaps some fresh tiger prawns before launching into the “Main Affair.” There’s something for every tastebud here with a selection that includes tender eye fillet with baby spinach and a wild mushroom jus, steamed snapper fillets with salsa verde and confit tomatoes, chicken breast with oregano, lemon and olives, hoisin pork and prawn stir fry noodles, green lip mussels poached in a garlic and Verdelho cream, spiced lamb rump with a minted yoghurt and an extensive range of hot and cold side dishes. If you have any room left, the Chefs delicacies and desserts and Australian cheeses will tempt you to flick your New Years resolutions – and start again on Monday! A reservation at Chevals Restaurant includes racecourse entry with admission to the Members enclosure, a three-course chefs selection inclusive buffet lunch, reserved table for the day with views over the Parade Ring and Finish Line, and a complimentary racebook (per couple). Most tables in Chevals feature a plasma TV so you can enjoy all the race day action from Newcastle and all around the country (tables with plasma TVs need to be requested at the time of booking and are subject to availability). For more information about Chevals Restaurant, to view the current menu or make a booking visit www.njc.com.au

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www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19


Rove McManus

Emma Pask

SPIEGELTENT

THE ULTIMATE Cabaret and Music Venue! WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

From renovated former churches to heritage listed theatres, Newcastle is home to an amazing variety of venues for live music and performances. But once a year the city plays host to a venue unlike any other when the internationally renowned Australian-based arts and events company Strut & Fret rolls into town with their Spiegeltent. Set up for a limited season in Newcastle’s Civic Park, the Spiegeltent is a sight to behold – and a unique experience not to be missed. Dutch for “mirror tent”, Spiegeltents date back to Europe in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when they were built in Belgium and used as large, portable dance halls and wine tasting marquees. Each hand-hewn pavilion is built from wood, cut mirrors and canvas, before being lavishly decorated with leadlight and velvet brocade. Each Spiegeltent is unique and has its own name, personality and style, with the venues created in everything from the German Jugendstil artistic style to those featuring baroque, art nouveau or art deco facades. While only a handful of these tents remain in existence today, they continue to travel across Europe and more recently around the world as the ultimate cabaret and music salon. Strut & Fret have been bringing the tents out to Australia for a number of years, touring their own shows as well as performances from other production companies, such as the Marcia Hines disco extravaganza Velvet, which wowed audiences in Newcastle last year. This year the company is touring the Fortuna Spiegeltent around the country; a massive art nouveau spectacle 20 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

measuring 26m in diameter that can seat around 1000 guests. Strut & Fret founder Scott Maidment said there was something special about putting on a show in the Spiegeltent. “The environment of the tent itself is so beautiful and so exciting that it really does amp up the atmosphere, not just of the audience but also of the performers in the tent,” he said. “Spiegel means mirror, so it’s a mirror tent. They’re not really like a tent at all if you go into it, it’s nothing like a circus tent with canvas and things like that, it’s basically a wooden structure that has lots of stained glass panels, velvet seating, velvet curtains, there’s mirrors all around them. “They started off in the 1940s touring around Europe as dance venues and basically because of the acoustics of the wood and because of the amazing atmosphere they’ve been touring around Europe and then probably around ten years ago they came out as a really special occasion to Australia. “Since then we’ve been developing it, we work really closely with the owners and each year we bring a tent out.” This year the Spiegeltent will set up in Newcastle, in association with the Civic Theatre, for a three-and-a-half week season from March 27 to April 15, with Strut & Fret’s smashhit production Blanc de Blanc headlining the visit. Blanc de Blanc combines classic cabaret with amazing aerial manoeuvres and a thumping soundtrack in a performance that is sure to infatuate and delight Newcastle audiences. Featuring an internationally renowned cast of dancers, acrobats and entertainers, Blanc de Blanc is a blend of vintage glamour, high-end spectacle and titillating acts designed to infatuate, illuminate and delight. But the 18-plus entertainment isn’t the only reason to come and enjoy the Spiegeltent experience, with a world-class program of music, cabaret and comedy set to bring the tent to life this month. The season kicked off at the end of March with the opening night of Blanc de Blanc, as well as shows by comedian Luke McGregor, award-winning vocalist Emma Pask and a performance of the historical and hysterical cabaret show Mother’s Ruin.

But things will really start to ramp up this month, with more opportunities to witness the extraordinary talents of both international stars and homegrown Australian performers. Voted ‘Folk Band of the Year’ and ‘Album of the Year’ at the 2017 Scots Trad Music Awards, five-piece Scottish outfit Breabach are a Spiegeltent favourite. With two pipers, fiddle, guitar, whistle, bouzouki and songs in Gaelic, they’ll deliver thrilling contemporary folk music to Newcastle audiences on Tuesday, April 3. This will be followed by the lavish and loud Trash and Treasure: the Best of Trevor Ashley on April 4, as well as an emotive and stirring performance by Yolngu professional performing artist Gawurra Gaykamangu on April 5. One of Australia’s most enduring and dynamic live bands, The Black Sorrows, is sure to be one of the highlights of the Spiegeltent’s second week in Newcastle, with ARIA Hall of Famer and frontman Joe Camilleri set to wow audiences with a performance of some of the band’s biggest hits on April 6. More comedy, cabaret and catchy tunes will continue in the third week of the season, including performances by the “queen of queer cabaret” Yana Alana (April 7) and plenty of laughs from popular Australian comedians Tom Gleeson (April 7) and Rove McManus (April 11). After recently completing a sell-out national tour of their award-winning debut album Between Last Night & Us, multiple ARIA award winners The Audreys are back on the road and heading to Newcastle for one night only on April 12, while perennial funny man Peter Helliar will pull on his “Big Boy Pants” for a show in the Spiegeltent on Friday, April 13. Unique vocals and a sizzling spectacle will cap off the Spiegeltent’s 2018 season in Newcastle on Sunday, April 15 when award-winning singer-songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke takes to the stage at 5.30pm with adaptations of well-loved orchestral pieces, some surprises from her back catalogue and a sneak peek of some new material. Her show will be followed by one final performance of Blanc de Blanc from 7.30pm, wrapping up what is sure to have been a truly unforgettable visit to Newcastle by the Spiegeltent. Tickets for all shows are sold individually and are available now at www.spiegeltentnewcastle.com


3237MAR18

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Flourish this Anzac Day

This year, Anzac Day falls on Wednesday 25 April 2018, and local councils, RSL Clubs and Community Groups will all hold commemorative events throughout the region to mark the occasion, including: The traditional Anzac ideals of courage Tuesday 24 April 2018 endurance and mateship are still as relevant • 5pm - 7pm War Memorial Grove today as when they were established on 25 Candlelight Vigil, Civic Park, Newcastle April 1915 at the landing on the Gallipoli Peninsula by the Australian and New Zealand Wednesday 25 April 2018 Newcastle City Council (check Army Corps. It was the start of a campaign that lasted www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au for details) • 5am - 6am Anzac Day Dawn Service, eight months and resulted in some 25,000 Nobbys Beach Australian casualties, including 8,700 killed or subsequently dying of wounds or disease. • 9.15am - Anzac Day March, Hunter Street to Civic Park The men who served on the Gallipoli Peninsula created a legend, adding the word • 10am - United Commemoration Service, Civic Park ‘Anzac’ to our vocabulary and creating the • All day - Anzac Field of Remembrance, notion of the Anzac spirit. Newcastle Museum In 1916, the first anniversary of the • 12noon to 4pm - Fort Scratchley Firing of landing was observed in Australia, New the Guns and Open Day Zealand and England and by troops in Egypt. That year, 25 April was officially named ‘Anzac Lake Macquarie Council (check www. lakemac.com.au closer to the day for Day’ by the Acting Prime Minister, George additional events) Pearce. • 9.30am Anzac Day March followed by By the 1920s, Anzac Day ceremonies service at 10am in Cullen Park, Belmont were held throughout Australia. All States had designated Anzac Day as a public holiday. • 5am Anzac Day March from Main and Macquarie roads, followed by 5.10am In the 1940's, Second World War veterans Anzac Day Service at Cardiff RSL Club. joined parades around the country. In the • 11am Anzac Day March followed by Anzac ensuing decades, returned servicemen and Day Service at Swansea RSL Memorial women from the conflicts in Korea, Malaysia, Club Indonesia, Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq, • 10am Anzac Day March followed by Anzac plus veterans from allied countries and Day Service at Memorial Park, West peacekeepers, joined the parades. Wallsend During the 1960's and 1970's, the Exhibitions number of people attending the ceremonies • Newcastle Region Library (Lovett Gallery) – fell as Australians questioned the relevance Serving Country 20 April to 9 June during of Anzac Day. However, in the 1990's there Library Hours (9.30am to 8pm) was a resurgence of interest in Anzac Day, • Newcastle Museum – Shadows of Sacrifice with attendances, particularly by young 10am to 5pm people, increasing across Australia and with many making the pilgrimage to Gallipoli to (Resource Credit: Australian War Memorial) attend the Dawn Service.

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Tickets on Sale for the 35th-Anniversary

Tocal Field Days! Community members and families are set for a fun filled, affordable day out and an opportunity to learn about farming and living on the land at the 35th annual Tocal Field Days, according to event manager Wendy Franklin. Discounted tickets are now on sale online for the event to be held at Tocal Agricultural Centre from Friday, May 4 to Sunday, May 6. Ms Franklin said this year’s theme is FISH. People will be able to catch carp from the lagoon with experts from NSW Fisheries helping novices learn how to cast a line. The fish theme will be carried through to the popular Bake or Burn competition. She said this years’ event will be bigger and better than ever with more than 350 exhibitors selling everything from farm machinery, produce, art and crafts as well as plants and gardening equipment. “People will be able to enjoy great food and wine as well as the Tocal favourite activities including the billy boiling competition, cooking workshops for kids, piglet races, sheep shearing, gardening talks, livestock demonstrations, and the ute muster,” Ms Franklin said. “Horse riding for adults and for kids proved very popular last year because many people have not ridden a horse before,” she said. “With local farmers doing it tough in the current drought, Tocal Field Days provides an important opportunity for other community members to understand what life is like on the land and appreciate their contribution to our community.” 22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Schools are being encouraged to attend as an excursion on Friday May 4. Ms Franklin has prepared activity sheets for students to complete on the day. Entertainment will be provided by local school students through the Talent at Tocal program. More than 30 students auditioned this year and 20 will be paid to perform on May 5 and 6 as part of the Field Days’ program of giving back to the local community. Hunter Melanoma Foundation has been chosen as the designated charity to benefit from this year’s event. Daily tickets are $18 for adults, $15 for seniors with government issued ID, and $2 for kids aged five to 16. Children under five are free. A Comeback Pass to re-enter the following day is $12. “Once you have bought a ticket, many activities and competitions are free, making it an affordable day out.” A free park and ride shuttle bus from Maitland Railway Station via Lorn will run every hour to make it easy for people to get to the event. The annual Tocal Field Days is “today’s farming on show.” Held at the Tocal Agricultural Centre, Paterson, it attracts around 20,000 people each year. For information visit www.tocalfielddays.com or phone 4939 8820. WHEN May 4 to 6 (9am-5pm Friday and Saturday, 9am-4pm Sunday) WHERE Tocal Agricultural Centre, 815 Tocal Road, Paterson TICKETS Available at the gate or online now at www.tocalfielddays.com

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Home + Lifestyle

LAY IT ALL ON THE

TABLE

Laying the table for a beautiful spread is all about the small details that make your guests feel extra-special. Whether your occasion is big or small, make your guests feel loved with some of the divine pieces that can be found at some of our favourite stores.

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Creating your ideal

DINING SPACE WORDS DEBORAH BARTLETT - insideout Newcastle

The dining table is an integral part of family life. Gone are the days of TV meals on laps in front of the table and not speaking during meals – the family dining table should be an inviting and comfortable place for happy conversation and warm memories. With the homes of today being more open plan, no longer are rooms assigned for an extra formal dining table, and the dining table needs to fit into an open plan décor. Views, wallpaper, art, rugs, comfortable chairs and lighting all combine to make your meals more pleasurable. Good food, good company and a great dining space are all integral to a great dining experience, whether it be a special occasion or a midweek family meal. When looking at the placement of the dining table, ensure there is ample space for a chair to be pushed out and room for others to walk around the table and not feel cramped. Comfortable flow around furniture is important for comfortable living spaces. A light-filled area with a view is ideal, but if this isn’t possible, create your own ambience. Visit the Insideout website for ideas - wallpaper murals will place a view of a jetty, ocean view or beautiful garden where there is no view. A beautiful piece of art can also improve your ambience. Rugs are necessary when you have an open plan living area to cut out the echo and noise and a good sized rug used under a dining table on hard floors will anchor the dining area in an open space. Rugs used in a smaller room will make the room appear larger, but always make sure you have at least 60-70cm around the edge of the table so you can pull the dining chairs out comfortably and still have space to walk past the chairs when they are out. Layered lighting is ideal for your dining space and preferable over a single bright light. Toning down the lights or having a hanging pendant in the middle of a dining

table can add another level to your dining experience and the overall look of your room. Softer lighting will add to the feel of your space, helping to create an atmosphere to sit and enjoy a meal. Then there is the question of what is the optimal size and shape of the dining table for your area? When deciding on a shape for your dining area, let the home and space dictate the best fit. It is my opinion, that large square tables take up a lot of space, and often are not always easy to lean across for food. So think carefully about your needs and the size of your room before considering this choice. Sometimes you may think only a small rectangle is the only option, but another option could be a round dining table. They are ideal to let the traffic flow without the danger of protruding sharp corners to block your way (or walk into). A large round table an be an ideal alternative as they contribute to a more intimate feeling, and it is easier to fit in that extra chair or two. When looking at dining chairs, benches are an excellent option for creating more space if required, or if you have small children. I find a bench can have many uses. When you have small children, it provides a place to sit on the floor with them and use the bench as a desk. It can also be utilized as a coffee table or used outside or inside for extra nibbles or glasses of wine. A bench provides additional seating that doesn’t look out of place - inside or out. Choosing the right table and chairs are as important as choosing the right sofa and bed, and comfortable chairs are a must if you want to make the dining table somewhere to linger and entertain. So many chair options are available, and they are an important element to finish the look you want when blending your other furniture in with the room. Fabric, leather, timber, rattan or a synthetic surface. The team at insideout have many options to suggest, and we will help you “not” make an expensive mistake. Call into our showroom for advice from the insideout team or visit www.insideoutstyle.com.au

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Travel

itravel clients Tony and Cheryl Dormer have travelled to see the Northern Lights many times. We asked Tony about his experiences: How many times have you seen the Northern Lights and what keeps taking you back? My wife Cheryl and I have both seen the Northern Lights on numerous occasions; I believe my current “Northern Lights” count is 24 evenings. The “Northern Lights” are just simply “magical”. They are just so unpredictable, you can be standing there, with nothing happening and within minutes the whole sky can erupt into this magical light show. Where have you viewed them from, and which was your favourite place? I have viewed the Northern Lights in various locations in Finland, Norway and Alaska. I’m not sure which would be my favourite location; they are all very special and beautiful. How cold is it? And how do you keep warm while waiting? It does get very cold due to the clear skies; -10c to -30c degrees. I have stood out on frozen lakes and rivers in -35C watching this amazing light show, you just don’t feel the cold when the show is on! Most tour companies’ supply extreme cold weather clothing, and there is always the van close by to go back to and warm up while waiting for the Northern Lights to appear. Do you need special camera equipment to capture the phenomenon? It is certainly best to use a good quality digital camera with a good tripod that is capable of taking a long exposure image, 10 to 30 x second exposure is normal when taking the Northern Lights. For your interest I use a Nikon D750 digital camera fitted with a wide angle 14-24mm, 2.8f Nikon lens and a good quality tripod. To read more detailed responses from Tony and see some of his amazing photo’s go to: http://bit.ly/2HAk2vn

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Photo Credit: Tony Dormer

Northerly

Photo Credit: Tony Dormer

Kakslauttanen Arctic Resort, located high above the Arctic Circle in Finnish Lapland will appeal. With plenty of exciting winter activities like snowmobiling, husky sledging and reindeer sleigh rides – a real Arctic adventure awaits! Situated in a remote Finnish national park near Ivalo, there is no artificial light pollution in this part of the world, which makes it the perfect place for optimal viewing of nature’s magical northern lights display. Stay in unique glass-igloo accommodation for the chance WORDS STEVE MCKENNA + BREEANNA DONOHOE to view the northern lights from the comfort of your own bed! Iceland is one of planet Earth's most enchanting destinations. The modern-style igloos are built with glass-domed roofs so you can sleep under the starry sky. Heated to 21 degrees It wows visitors with its astonishing volcanic scenery, Celsius, you are assured of a snug stay. exhilarating activities and other-worldly natural phenomena. On Collette’s seven day Northern Lights of Finland tour, Very much a year-round destination, Iceland has two peak you also experience a stay in a Finnish log cabin, complete seasons; summer (June-August), when the sun barely sets, and winter (November-March), when the Northern Lights cast with your very own fireplace and private sauna. Saunas are an important part of life in Finland, perhaps the perfect way to their eerie spell over this magical island. Elusive and ethereal, the aurora borealis (Northern Lights) relax after you’ve been out enjoying the crisp, fresh winter air. This tour has departures from October through to April each are a sight for sore eyes as they dance across the dark skies year. above a patchwork of awe-inspiring Icelandic landscapes. To truly immerse yourself in the magic of the surrounding But while you wait for them to appear, there's plenty to keep woodland, you have the option to partake in any number of you enthralled in capital city Reykjavik, as well as the popular adventurous winter activities. Mush your very own team of tourist destination of Vik, Iceland's most southerly town. huskies on an exhilarating sledding trip through the forest, Enjoy trips to the Golden Circle and Blue Lagoon where you'll witness the power of Seljalandsfoss, one of the country's snowmobile your way over the glistening, snow-blanketed hills, or take a relaxing reindeer sleigh ride under the cover of most striking waterfalls, and float past the icebergs of the blankets while sipping on warm berry juice. Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon. For further details on these unique and memorable Collette runs a seven-day small group tour to Iceland’s adventures contact itravel The Junction ph 4962 1116 or Magical Northern Lights to help Australians realise their itravel Warners Bay ph 4947 1116. Book your Northern Lights dreams of seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland. tour with itravel this month and save $200pp off the tour As remote as Iceland is, if you’re looking to travel to a price! place that’s truly off the beaten track, then the incredible

Adventures

Oz GeoMuster Mega Event Coming to Lake Mac Join in a real-life treasure hunt in Lake Macquarie over the Easter long weekend, as hundreds of teams search for hidden items across the City during the first ever Oz GeoMuster. Council is proud to be sponsoring the inaugural event, which will see more than 1000 participants from Australia and across the world use GPS to search for cache containers hidden in parks, bushland and urban areas across Lake Macquarie City. Council’s Customer Support Coordinator, Jasmyne Munro, said the high number of players registered for Oz GeoMuster Lake Mac means it has reached ‘mega event’ status. “More than 500 teams from all across the world have already registered for the event, with particularly high numbers coming from New Zealand and the United States,” Ms Munro said.

“Only a handful of geocaching mega-events have ever been held in NSW, so we’re really excited to be hosting one right here in Lake Macquarie, and are confident teams will have a fantastic time exploring our City’s unique landscapes. “Activities will take place across Lake Macquarie, with the event based at Morisset Showground where there will be workshops, markets, and a fireworks display on Sunday night for participants to enjoy. “Geocaching is a worldwide adventure game and a great way to spend some time outdoors. I would encourage Lake Mac residents to register, get involved and come and discover what geocaching is all about.” WHEN Friday 30 March-Monday 2 April WHERE Morriset Showground DETAILS For more info or to register, visit www.ozgeomuster.com WHAT IS GEOCACHING? Watch the video https://bit.ly/2FVlNXE


LIVE YOUR LIST

another friend set the goal to celebrate his 70th birthday with a marathon. “It didn’t happen, as he had a knee replacement. And it struck me; if I wanted to do a marathon, it needed to be sooner rather than later, and I wanted it to be a special one, a World Marathon Major, Tokyo, Boston, London, WORDS KIM-CHERIE DAVIDSON - Live Your Bucket List Berlin, Chicago or New York City,” Above: The Monday after the NYC Marathon, finishers she said. are encouraged to proudly wear their medals (Vickie in “The NYC marathon weaves Running a marathon is a popular bucket list item. It is one Central Park). Right: Vickie after the Chicago Marathon. through five boroughs – Staten that is achieved with dedication, time and energy. For those Island, Brooklyn, Queens, the who decide to tackle a 42.2km event, they commit to regular the US with Travelling Fit to compete in the Chicago Marathon. Bronx, and Manhattan, and ends in Central Park – so of training, an endurance diet and mindset preparation. The In this event, Vickie finished alongside 40,000 other runners, payoff is crossing the finish line and the sense of achievement, course, it got my vote!” who had traversed the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods Qualifying was not a viable option for Vickie (in her age elation and exhaustion. For some, a marathon is a one-off with performers in drag at Boystown, mariachi bands in Pilsen, group it is 3 hours and 51 minutes), so, she decided to go deal, and for others they become hooked, that is exactly what lion dancers in Chinatown and ending in Grant Park. with the specialist travel agency, Travelling Fit, along with happened to one local. As for this year – she is heading to Berlin in September. A marathon was not on Vickie Woodbury’s radar. The Lake 450 other Australians to compete in the 2016 New York City Once Vickie has finished running marathons, she wants to Marathon. Macquarie teacher had always enjoyed sport, staying fit and return to her passion for trekking. She has already walked the “As I came down the finishing chute, the roar was doing 10km fun runs. She doesn’t have a bucket list. However, Great Ocean and Milford tracks and wants to trek into Machu unbelievable. I could hear the crowd yelling my name (all Vickie loves to seize opportunities, so when events started to Picchu. Then she will be ready for a quieter pass with a river or align to run her first marathon in New York City, she took it and Travelling Fit runners had race shirts with Australia and our names on them) I was cold and tired, but this encouragement canal cruise. ran with it – literally! filled me with pride, a sense of achievement and lifted me “I never thought I would compete in a marathon (42.2km); over the finish line.” they were for the elite, I only did 10km events. Then friends Kim-Cherie Davidson is an adventure coach and speaker, On November 6, 2016, Vickie became a marathon runner started to do half marathons and off I went and did 21.1km helping women to live their adventure dreams so they can feel empowered, grow from their experiences and be role events at Port Macquarie, Lake Macquarie, Canberra, Sydney, and finished one of the world’s biggest marathons with more models for their families, friends and other women. than 50,000 finishers ranging from amateurs to professionals Melbourne and the Gold Coast,” Vickie said. Visit www.facebook.com/liveyourbucketlistau or email and world-record holders. Her friends then started to compete in marathons and kim-cheriedavidson@bigpond.com for more information. Nearly a year later, on October 8, 2017, she returned to Vickie was in awe. At the 2015 Gold Coast half marathon,

The Road Less Travelled

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 27


WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

The Hunter is a hotbed for sporting talent, a breeding ground for some of the best in the business across a wide range of sporting endeavours. With the Commonwealth Games set to kick off on the Gold Coast from April 4, we’ve put together a guide for Hunter sports fans highlighting some of the homegrown heroes preparing to pull on the green and gold to compete.

Benn Harradine. Photo Credit: William West AFP

Celia Sullohern. Photo Credit: David Tarbotton

28 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Athletics

in the comparatively “shorter” 10,000m and 5,000m events at the Games after switching focus to secure key qualifying He’s one of Newcastle’s most colourful athletic success times – and personal bests - in both distances. stories, both inside and out of the discus cage, but don’t let Also making her Commonwealth Games debut will be the quirky costumes and irreverent manner fool you – Benn 18-year-old athlete Erin Cleaver – although this won’t be her Harradine is a serious contender. first time on the international stage. The 35-year-old from Eleebana, who is now based in the The Charlestown teenager’s trophy cabinet is already Swedish capital of Stockholm, will represent Australia at his home to a pretty impressive medallion after Cleaver, and her fourth Commonwealth Games this month. teammates took out the 4x100m relay (T38 classification) at The three-time Olympian and five-time World the 2016 Paralympic Games in Rio. Championships representative was 23 when he made his Cleaver was also just two centimetres off securing a international debut at the Melbourne Commonwealth Games podium finish in the T38 long jump at Rio – something she (2006), before making his mark on the sport in 2010 when hopes to improve upon when she competes in the same event he took home the gold medal from the Delhi Commonwealth at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games. Games. Fellow cerebral palsy sufferer and former Newcastle Harradine will line up against some of the best discus throwers in the world on the Gold Coast with hopes of securing man Cameron Crombie didn’t even know of his congenital condition until he was 22. his second Commonwealth Games medal, having narrowly After initially making a name for himself as the national missed out on a podium position four years ago in Glasgow para-rowing champion, difficulties finding a classification when he placed fourth. under which he could compete saw him make the move to Joining him on the Australian athletics team will be fellow track and field events. Newcastle-raised representative and Commonwealth Games A stunning debut at the world para-athletics debutant Celia Sullohern. championships in 2017 saw him take home gold in the shot The 25-year-old physiotherapist, who currently lives and put with a 15.95m throw, smashing the F38 classification works on the north coast of NSW, has qualified for two events world record by 37cm. at the Gold Coast Games on the back of an impressive run The Canberra real estate agent and volunteer firefighter of form that began with her victory in the 2017 City2Surf last will now be looking to impress in the same event on the August. Gold Coast this month when he competes in his first While traditionally a marathon runner like her NewcastleCommonwealth Games. based coach, Olympian Scott Westcott, Sullohern will line up


2016 Rio Games, where the Aussies suffered a heartbreaking one-point loss to Spain in the bronze medal play-off. Waratah’s Katie-Rae Ebzery also made her Olympic debut in 2016, with the 178cm guard averaging four points and just under 12 minutes per game after featuring in all six of the Opals matches in Rio. After playing a stint with Russia’s Dynamo Moscow in the Russian Premier League and the Eastern European Basketball Women’s League in 2016-2017, the 28-year-old returned to the WNBL to play for the Sydney Uni Flames this season and will be hoping to help the Opals impress on the Gold Coast this month.

Kurt Fearnley

Katie-Rae Ebzery. Photo Credit: Fiba Basketball

On the other end of the spectrum, celebrated Newcastle wheelchair athlete Kurt Fearnley will be competing in what is likely to be his last Commonwealth Games, closing out his remarkable and inspirational career by competing in the T54 marathon and 1500m. Fearnley was the silver medallist in the T54 1500m at the last Commonwealth Games, following on from his gold medalwinning performance in the same event in Delhi. The five-time Paralympian and three-time Paralympic gold medallist has been named co-captain of Australia's athletics team alongside champion hurdler Sally Pearson and will be looking to make history by taking out what will be the first wheelchair marathon ever held at a Commonwealth Games.

Basketball

While basketball may not be a regular inclusion on the Commonwealth Games schedule, the Hunter’s two

representatives are certainly familiar faces in Australia’s top squads. Basketball was first included in the Commonwealth Games during the 2006 edition in Melbourne, with this year’s Games only its second appearance in the multi-sport event’s 88-year history. The Boomers and the Opals walked away with both gold medals the first time around, with Australia’s teams hoping to make it two from two in both the men’s and women’s competitions this month. Representing the Hunter on court for the Boomers will be the Gloucester-born Newcastle Hunters junior Damian Martin, who was first selected in the Australian squad in 2009 and is ranked among the best NBL (National Basketball League) defenders of all-time. The captain of the Perth Wildcats and six-time NBL Defensive Player of the Year made his Olympic debut at the

Lawn Bowls

Natasha Scott (nee Van Eldik) was Australia’s youngest ever Commonwealth Games lawn bowler when she made her debut at the 2010 Games at the age of 19. Eight years, three world outdoor championship gold medals and a wedding later, Scott will step up for what will be her third attempt at Commonwealth Games glory, having failed to secure a place on the podium at either Delhi or Glasgow. The Maitland-born 27-year-old, who now lives in and bowls for Raymond Terrace, will have two chances for success after being named in both the women’s triples and fours teams for the Gold Coast competition.

Shooting

He’s already one of the faces of the 2018 Commonwealth Games after being selected as an official ambassador for the Gold Coast event, but Nulkaba shooter Dan Repacholi will be hoping that’s not the only thing he’s remembered for this year. Continued next page ►

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representative hockey player will be hoping to begin the celebrations early with a win at the Games. It’s been a successful couple of years on the hockey field for Dawson after making his Olympic Games debut in Rio in 2016 only one year after being one of the youngest players selected to represent the Kookaburras at the prestigious World League Final in 2015, where his goal during the final against Belgium helped secure Australia gold. He will be hoping to do the same this month on the Gold Coast, with the Kookaburras looking to defend the gold medal they collected at the Glasgow Games in 2014.

Matthew Dawson Photo Credit: Dan Carson

Swimming

After recording disappointing results in both his disciplines at the 2016 Rio Olympics, the 35-year-old three-time Olympian will be gunning for glory on the Gold Coast at what will be his fourth and final Commonwealth Games. The former coal miner has had plenty of success at this particular event over the years, having won five Commonwealth Games medals including two golds – the first on debut in 2006 at Melbourne (50m pistol pairs) and his second during the most recent Games in Glasgow (10m air pistol). He will be hoping to add to this tally and defend his most recent title this month, having qualified for both the 50m pistol and 10m air pistol events.

Merewether swimmer Meg Bailey will have her first chance to don the green and gold uniform at a Commonwealth Games after being named last month in Australia’s 70-strong Dolphins squad. The 21-year-old, who now lives in the US but used to train with the Hunter Swim Club, secured her berth in the national team after a successful campaign at the Australian Swimming Championships during March, with bronze medal finishes in the 200m and 400m individual medley finals. Her efforts in the 400m race also saw Bailey clock up a personal best of four minutes and 41.78 seconds in the final, while both results came within the required B-qualification times that placed her in contention for Games selection.

Hockey

Weightlifting

There’s probably no better early birthday present that Matthew Dawson could ask for than to finish his debut Commonwealth Games with a medal around his neck. The Killarney Vale man will turn 24 less than two weeks after the Gold Coast event ends, and the former Newcastle

Hunter Disability Sports Expo will Change Perceptions A two-day wheelchair sports Expo will be held on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 April at The Forum - Newcastle University, Callaghan Campus. The Expo is proudly supported by the Cauliflower Club, a rugby charity that supports organisations like Wheelchair Sports NSW to enhance the lives of those with a disability through sporting opportunities. The Expo gives budding wheelchair athletes, as well as able-bodied participants, 30 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Newcastle weightlifter Philippa (Pip) Malone only took up the sport four years ago. But the former CrossFit athlete has wasted no time powering her way to the top of her division after being named in the Australian team to compete at the Commonwealth Games.

the chance to sample a dozen different wheelchair sports including basketball, tennis, rugby, lawn bowls, badminton, handcycling, track and road racing. Each sports station will be staffed with personnel who can provide an introduction to the rules, equipment and skills, as well as information about how participants can join a disability sporting organisation like Wheelchair Sports NSW. CEO of Wheelchair Sports NSW Jim O’Brien said the Expo had two main objectives. “Firstly, this is all about giving people in wheelchairs an opportunity to get involved in a sport. The Expo gives them the chance to sample a wide variety of sports which involve varying degrees of skill, fitness and finesse. Sport provides so many physical, psychological and social benefits. “Secondly, we also want able-bodied people to come along, sit in a wheelchair and try these sports. Shooting a three-pointer into a regular height basketball hoop, or serving a tennis ball while sitting down, gives you a whole new perspective and appreciation. You quickly stop seeing the disability and start appreciating the ability. It’s a great perception-changer for kids and adults alike.” Entry will be by Gold coin donation. For more information visit www.wsnsw.org.au

The Pacific Games gold medallist and the national champion will make her Games debut in the women’s 69kg category as part of a 16-strong Australian weightlifting team. It is a rapid rise for the 28-year-old, who has put off completing her criminology degree at university to focus on her sporting success.

Triathlon

Competing at the Commonwealth Games was the furthest thing from Lauren Parker’s mind 12 months ago. The Fletcher triathlete was taking part in a routine training session near Raymond Terrace when a horrific accident saw both the tyres on her bicycle blow out, sending her careening into a guardrail at 45km/hr. With broken ribs, a punctured lung, broken scapula, broken pelvis and a broken back, Parker was left paralysed from the waist down and facing an uncertain future. Following nine months of intense rehabilitation and training, the 29-year-old former World Age Group Ironman silver medallist is back in the saddle and eyeing off her first Commonwealth Games after being named in Australia’s paratriathlon team. It follows her second-place finishes at the Oceania Championships in St Kilda and the Paratriathlon World Cup in Devonport, with her Games selection capping off an inspiring return to competitive sport less than 12 months after an accident that could have killed her. ■ The 2018 Commonwealth Games will be held on the Gold Coast from April 4-15. For more information about individual events and all the Australian athletes who are competing, visit www.commonwealthgames.com.au

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suits all levels, just down the road at Charlestown Swim Centre,” said Mr Hodgetts. Within Newcastle and the Hunter region, Charlestown Square is the primary sponsor of the 40-week program. The 45 minute daily sessions are expected to be popular, with participants advised to sign up for their desired session by visiting the Charlestown Square website, with up to 27 spots available in each morning session. The team of expert trainers monitor participant progress and can provide health and nutrition advice, including a full nutritional plan. The classes are fun, social and completely free! Visit www.charlestownsquare.com.au/what-shappening


CBD COMMUTE NOW EASIER With Park & Ride Service and Easypark Mobile App Newcastle is undergoing unprecedented change and renewal. More than $1billion worth of development has been approved across the city in the last 12 months. Overhead cranes are a common sight in the city centre, and the infrastructure needed to support our growing city is

also being built with new roads, light rail, better footpaths and NO2 SPORTSGROUND CAR PARK No.2 Sportsground car park has been one of Newcastle's cycleways. best-kept parking secrets. It has 200 off-street parking spaces, Meanwhile, Newcastle City Council is working to ensure including six disabled spaces, yet a 2017 usage survey found the city remains open for business. that only about 15 vehicles on average were using the car "We are offering alternative parking options to make your park each weekday. daily commute easier, whether you are headed to Newcastle The car park, on Smith Street, is just 2 minutes' walk East, the Civic Precinct, Newcastle West or Wickham," said from Marketown, six minutes from the King St fare-free Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes. Council has also introduced a new smart parking app, just bus stop, seven minutes to Hunter St and eight minutes to Honeysuckle's business centre. one of the ideas being implemented as part of our Smart City At just $6 a day Monday-Friday and free on weekends, this Strategy. is one of the cheapest paid parking options anywhere in the "The EasyPark app is the start of a broader approach to city centre. No.2 Sportsground is an affordable, handy, viable making parking smarter in the city centre," said the Lord option for many Newcastle commuters. Mayor. EASYPARK MOBILE APP "Our vision is for Newcastle to be an open, collaborative and connected smart city that uses technology to make things The new smartphone app means that you no longer have to feed coins into the meter or swipe your credit card at the easier, more liveable and sustainable - and this app definitely meter. Newcastle is the first NSW council to deploy this app to fits the bill." manage parking spaces right across the city. Just be sure to With Park and Ride, the No2 Sports-ground car park and check the nearest meter for the precinct number shown on it the new parking mobile app, Council is helping you get where and enter that number into the app. you need to go while saving time and money. Commuters who use the park and ride service from the PARK AND RIDE AT MCDONALD JONES STADIUM stadium can also use the app to pay for parking remotely. By The aim is to get as many commuters as possible using the registering with your number plate, the app allows you to start park and ride service operating at McDonald Jones Stadium. a parking session, extend it if needed and end it immediately. Users can dodge the rush-hour traffic, skip the parking Simply log in and, by spinning a wheel on the screen of hassles, and park, ride, relax and - at just $2.20 per day - save your phone or tablet, set your zone (precinct) from the number money. For commuters paying $8 per day and working 48 shown on the meter and the required time length. weeks a year, this is a savings of almost $1,440! Parking officers will use their handheld devices to verify Plus, you can pay your Park and Ride fee quickly and easily payment by cars without a ticket on their dashboard, and will using Council's new EasyPark mobile app. In a survey conducted in December, more than nine in ten still be able to enforce time limits specified by street signage. To find more information about all of these services, visit survey participants (93%) indicated that they were satisfied or Council's website at www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au very satisfied with the park and ride service.

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Artist Saretta Fielding

SPEAKING

IN

WORKSHOPS Promoting Indigenous Art As the founder of The Olive Tree Market, and as an event organiser of successful community based cultural events for over a decade, Justine Gaudry says it has become increasingly clear to her that there remains a large gap in the involvement of local Indigenous community members, and Indigenous artists, in Newcastle’s community-based events. This was the inspiration behind a new series of free Indigenous Cultural Workshops at The Olive Tree Market

32 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

appropriate local cultural facilitators who bring a wealth of which launched at the Market in March, and will continue knowledge to the team,” says Cherie over the next four months. The workshops are supported by a “Our Aboriginal community is full of amazing presenters Newcastle City Council Make Your Place Grant. who just need a little support and help in running a business. “We wanted to foster cross-cultural community-based Speaking in Colour is a large umbrella which aims to build collaborations at Olive Tree,” says Justine. “We see art and cultural projects as a strong meeting place capacity within our local Aboriginal community to provide economic opportunity to our community while ensuring for conversations to develop, as opportunities for fostering Aboriginal art and education in this region is professionally cultural knowledge and understanding, as a place to develop taught by appropriate cultural practitioners. new skills, and a way of contributing to harmony within our “It’s really gone from strength to strength and is expanding society. Newcastle’s Cultural Precinct presents the perfect in ways they never thought possible, which is amazing to platform for the sharing of knowledge by local indigenous watch,” she said. community cultural practitioners who are the caretakers of The next workshop will be an Aboriginal Art Appreciation Newcastle’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage.” Workshop for children, facilitated by Dawn Conlan. There will Justine said one of the exciting elements of the project was the opportunity to work with Cherie Johnson, the Founder be two sessions held on April 7 at The Olive Tree Market, and all community members are invited to attend. and Owner of Speaking in Colour, a local Aboriginal art and Justine said that the market welcomes, and encourages, education organisation, which provides training, cultural locally based Indigenous artists and designers to see Olive workshops and Aboriginal education resources. Tree as a potential platform to showcase cultural and arts“I approached Cherie because she has been achieving based small businesses and cultural performances and fantastic things as an educator, artist and businesswoman in Newcastle. She recently curated the exhibition ‘Transmission’, workshops. “We currently have a number of fantastic Indigenous artists at The Lock-Up Contemporary Art Space which featured at Olive Tree. Including painter and homewares designer contemporary Aboriginal artists, alongside sculptural weaving Saretta Fielding, graphic artists, illustrator and street fashion works created by local high school students. designer Jason Coultard of Wakarla and amazing Indigenous “There are multiple aspects to this project, and an arts centre Injalak Arts from the Northern Territory. It’s exciting important element is providing employment and professional to watch these community members developing as artisans opportunities for local Indigenous arts and cultural practitioners to develop as cultural workers. Our first workshop and achieving great success both locally and nationally,” she said. was a traditional weaving workshop facilitated by Cherie, and WORKSHOP DATES: Aboriginal art appreciation April 7th, a young Aboriginal woman Tamara Jackson, who Cherie has Aboriginal dance May 5th, Aboriginal Canoe Building June 2nd been mentoring, and who is studying Aboriginal Professional and contemporary Street Art on July 7th. For more information Practice at the University of Newcastle,” said Justine. go to www.theolivetreemarket.com.au “The facilitators at Speaking in Colour are known


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What Plastic Surgery is Covered by Medicare? WORDS DR GARY AVERY - FRACS (Plast Surg) Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Avery Plastic Surgery.

Will Medicare cover my surgery? Does my private insurance cover my surgery? These are questions often asked of us, and the answer is: it essentially depends on the surgical procedure you are having. Medicare is the Commonwealth government of Australia’s universal health scheme. It covers plastic surgery procedures if they are classified as medically necessary as opposed to purely cosmetic in nature. If a procedure is deemed medically necessary, there will be a Medicare Item Number assigned to it. These Item Numbers are listed in the Medicare Benefits Schedule (see www.mbsonline.gov.au for more info). If there is an item number, there will be some kind of rebate, and possibly an ‘out of pocket’ costs also. To claim a Medicare rebate, you will need a referral from

your GP to a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who will ascertain whether or not your procedure qualifies as medically necessary. Medicare does not pay for hospital admission into a private hospital as this is considered one of your ‘out of pocket’ expenses, although your Private Health Insurance might cover this cost if a Medicare item number applies to your surgery and you have the appropriate level of cover. Some of the procedures that qualify for a Medicare rebate include the following: BREAST SURGERY - Breast reductions are considered a medical rather than a cosmetic procedure due to the significant symptoms often experienced by women with large breasts, which can include neck and back pain, and chronic skin irritation. Breast lifts are eligible for a Medicare rebate in some cases, such as when a reduction in breast tissue is required (e.g., to address breast asymmetry). Breast implant replacement is only eligible for a Medicare rebate if the replacement is necessary due to a complication related to the implant such as implant rupture or migration. There is no Medicare rebate for cosmetic breast augmentation. Male breast reduction or gynaecomastia surgery is considered a reconstructive procedure and therefore medical in nature, making it eligible for a Medicare rebate. Surgical excision of breast tissue and/or liposuction can be used, and either technique may include a Medicare rebate. OTHER TYPES OF SURGERY - A rhinoplasty or ‘nose job’ qualifies for a Medicare rebate if the surgery is being performed to correct nasal obstruction or a developmental or post-traumatic deformity. Upper eyelid reduction or blepharoplasty is eligible for a Medicare rebate if the upper eyelid skin touches the eyelashes when looking straight ahead thereby obstructing the visual field. Other reasons for the surgery that will attract a Medicare rebate include: addressing

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an accidental injury, birth deformities, and reconstruction after cancer. An arm lift or brachioplasty is only covered by Medicare if the person is experiencing significant symptoms such as rashes and skin ulceration or if the excess skin is significantly interfering with daily living, and weight loss has been substantial and sustained for at least six months. Otoplasty or the surgical pinning back of ears is considered a medical procedure and is therefore covered in part by Medicare. TUMMY-TUCK SURGERY - A Medicare rebate is also available for people undergoing a ‘tummy tuck’ or abdominoplasty if there has been significant weight loss which has remained stable for at least six months and you are suffering from negative symptoms arising from the excess skin left over from their weight loss. These symptoms can include pain and skin irritation, which has not responded to treatments such as barrier creams. The excess skin you have will also need to significantly interfere with your daily life in order for you to qualify for a Medicare rebate for abdominoplasty surgery. The criteria for Medicare rebates for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery means that not all people will qualify for a rebate. Those who do not qualify for a rebate might still benefit from the procedure. The best way to determine what your procedure will cost (with or without a Medicare rebate and Private Health Insurance) is to have a consultation with a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who will spend time talking with you about your concerns and determine with you the most appropriate surgery, including all of the risks and benefits, and costs involved. Dr Avery has operated as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in the Hunter region for over five years, treating over 5000 people with reconstructive or aesthetic procedures.


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Have you ever thought about seeing a personal trainer? Not sure what is involved, or why you might pay someone to count your reps for you?

Whether you have just set foot in a gym for the first time or have been training for years, a personal trainer is a smart move if you are serious about your goals. A personal trainers ultimate goal is to teach you how to help yourself as best

can’t wait to get back in the gym and beat whatever record as you can, you will be more of a you previously had. student to them rather than just Accountability - Holding yourself accountable is almost another client. I feel accomplished impossible, skipping a workout or having an extra snack is when I have a client no longer easy when you don’t have to answer to anyone. When you training with me yet still making know you have a Monday morning weigh-in, maybe you won’t progress week after week by open that extra bottle of wine Sunday night. themselves. I have helped them get Establish a lifetime exercise habit - Sure you did two great to that point in their fitness journey, workouts last week, and it made you feel good, but how do and it feels great for both them you know if you are doing the correct exercise for your goals? and me. Were your 30 minutes of fat burning cardio defeated by two When considering if you should talk to a personal trainer, it’s good to Tim Tams after dinner? Trainers are not only great at giving you the best workout for that day, but also at assisting you to know what they will help you with. Faster & better results - You should make lifestyle changes that will only help you progress faster. They will help you work on creating new healthy habits, and always enter the gym with a plan and attack it head-on. Your personal removing any older unhealthy habits you may have. Everyone wants to hit their goals straight away, be it weight trainer will make sure you are loss, strength or just six-pack abs. These are great goals, but utilising all of your gym time effectively and heading in the it can be discouraging if you haven’t hit any goals by week 2. right direction. Tracking your progress is key to knowing if you are getting better. If you aren’t tracking today then how do you Setting realistic and achievable goals will make the world of know if you’re better tomorrow? Your trainer will help you track difference, and that is where a personal trainer can help. Maybe your goal is to achieve a ‘bikini body’ for summer. your progress so you can see how far you have come. A trainer can help with altering your diet, setting up a good mix Reduce injury - Reducing chances of injury or even of weights and cardio, setting a timeframe when this can be strengthening the areas of old injuries plays a very important achieved, tracking progress and keeping you accountable. role in a lifelong fitness journey. Beating your last deadlift Trainers are also perfect to help with specific goals. For record by 10kg always feels great, but without proper form, example, if you are looking to join the army or police force, you could be rolling the dice for a back injury. you will be expected to reach a certain level of strength and Motivation - Keeping yourself motivated is very difficult, fitness. Your trainer will help set a program specific to the especially when you are first starting out. Your trainer is there fitness test and even track your times/progress so you can be to keep you focused and motivated. If the gym kind of feels 100% confident of passing. like a second job, something you have to do a trainer will Investing in a personal trainer is as good as investing in track your progress. When you start to see and notice some yourself. They will teach you how to be a better version of you. differences, the workouts will start to become a hobby; you

WHY DELAY?

GET YOUR FLU SHOT TODAY! Get vaccinated at any Piggott’s Pharmacy by an approved Pharmacist. Only $20. Drop in. No script required. No appointment required. Need your workplace vaccinated? Piggotts will come to your business. Call Anthony on 0410 109 157 to find out more.

www.piggottspharmacy.com.au

OUR LOCATIONS

BLACKBUTT

HAMILTON

HAMILTON SOUTH

LAMBTON

BRANXTON

PH: 02 4957 2474 58 Orchardtown Road New Lambton, 2305

PH: 02 4961 3179 83 Beaumont Street Hamilton, 2303

PH: 02 4969 1978 400 Glebe Road Hamilton South, 2303

PH: 02 4957 3630 117 Elder Street New Lambton, 2305

PH: 02 4938 1156 56 Maitland Street Branxton, 2335 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 35


emotions and not reacting 3. Labelling emotions: Putting words to the emotion so you can “read” what is going on inside and around you. This helps to translate the feeling into a problem that your thinking mind can solve 4. Managing emotions: Responding to the emotion in a useful way that helps ease or solve the problem. This could involve seeking advice from others EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AT WORK Effectiveness at work involves more than knowing the facts and technical aspects of the job. Emotional intelligence helps you access information about people that doesn’t appear in procedure manuals. People with good EQ generally understand themselves and others. They are good at emotional problem-solving. This means they come across as authentic and interested in others. They can sense the mood Emotion Signal in a room, develop rapport with others, deal with difficult Joy Satisfaction, goals reached, reward situations and produce outcomes that people are satisfied Pride Achievement with. Emotional intelligence helps to build connections Sadness Loss between people and with the bigger picture. It helps to Anger Goals frustrated, injustice, lack of fairness generate options in how challenges can be approached, rather Fear The sense of risk, threat than simple black and white solutions. By figuring out what the emotion is communicating, you have Without emotional awareness, leaders can be out of touch more information about what is going on and what the options with what is going on around them and can miss important are. cues that indicate that something or someone needs attention. EMOTIONS AND PROBLEM SOLVING Some leaders can be so busy focusing on the task they don’t Emotional intelligence (EQ) is about using emotions to help pay enough attention to the relationships involved. Emotional solve problems. Here are the four EQ skills and what they “blindness” can hamper teamwork and productivity. involve: WORDS ANNE WARD – Mindinsight EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE AT HOME Emotions play a huge role in our life. They impact our sense of 1. Recognising emotions: Being aware of emotions in yourself When couples, parents and children are emotionally in “sync” with each other they feel heard and understood. Problems and others rather than dismissing or minimising wellbeing and motivation. They affect the decisions we make can be worked on with less misunderstanding and conflict. 2. Experiencing emotions: Feeling the feeling rather than and how we respond to situations and challenges. They also Children lack the cognitive skills needed to put feelings ► play a huge role in relationships. There is now wide recognition ignoring it or pushing it away; not getting lost in distressing that our skill with emotions is a big factor in our personal and career success. Yet many people struggle to understand their feelings. Others become overwhelmed, and others dismiss or try to avoid emotions. Most of our emotional learning takes place in our early family environment. Families have “display rules” that signal whether emotions are important and how they should or should not be expressed. Some families are emotionally expressive, while others are not. This learning takes place informally, so we accept it as normal. It can be confusing to learn, e.g. at school, work, in relationships, that others have different rules. EMOTIONS HOLD VALUABLE INFORMATION All emotions carry signals that communicate information:

EMOTIONS and Personal Effectiveness

After hours home visit Doctor service

OPEN EVERY DAY

ALL VISITS ARE BULK BILLED Calls taken for visits 2 hours prior to opening times

Monday to Friday 6pm - 7am Saturday 11am to Monday 7am 24 hours on a public holiday

CALL 4943 6666 OR 49 DOCTOR 36 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au


into words and need help in understanding and managing emotions. Children also model the behaviour they learn from observing others. If they see others reacting rather than thinking before responding, this becomes their “norm”. Parents have a role in helping children develop good emotional problem-solving skills. CAN ADULTS DEVELOP BETTER EMOTION SKILLS? Becoming more skilled with emotions is often a central part of coaching and psychotherapy. The benefits can include:

• • • • • • • •

Being less reactive, leading to more considered responses Developing perspectives and insight into other people Having empathy Becoming more aware of your impact on others Feeling more connected with yourself and others Making more informed decisions Managing stress and being more resilient Feeling more confident to deal with problems ■

Cosmetic Medicine • Beauty Skin Laser • Cosmetic Tattooing Cold Laser • Skin Health (Acne, Pigmentation, Rosacea, Sun Damage) • ThermiVa

Pharmacy Matters

HOW LOUD

Is too Loud? WORDS ANTHONY PIGGOTT - Piggott’s Pharmacy

National Hearing Awareness Week is an annual event held to raise much-needed funds for Deafness Forum Australia and provides an opportunity to raise community awareness of hearing impairment and ways to protect your hearing. It also serves as a reminder to us all that the ears are much more than a couple of fairly useful appendages on either side of our head. The ear is a complex piece of equipment consisting of many parts – not just the visible exterior section – and is responsible not only for hearing but for maintaining balance as well. The outer ear captures sound waves which are converted into mechanical energy by the eardrum and the tiny muscles and bones in the middle ear. The inner ear changes this mechanical energy into nerve impulses which are then transmitted to the brain. These nerve impulses are the messages we decipher as sound. Semi-circular tubes or canals within the inner ear, acting as a series of spirit levels provide us with our sense of balance. It’s not surprising then that with such a complicated system things can go wrong. In fact, ear problems are very common, and they can be due to many causes. Some causes are very much self-inflicted. Industrial deafness has long been recognised as a work health and safety hazard; but research has now shown that whether it’s a power tool or loud music, the negative impact on the ears is just the same. The Hearing Awareness Week website (www. hearingawarenessweek.org.au) has identified a whole host of possible factors which are likely to cause damage to the ears – from jackhammers to jet skis, from fruit juicers to formula

one racing – and describes the maximum safe exposure time without ear protection. Visit the website to find out ‘how loud is too loud’ with respect to your favourite electrical appliance or music event. In fact, consistent exposure to loud music is the most common cause of hearing loss. It could be a portable music player or a rock concert; in any event, it’s an easily preventable cause. Unfortunately, as the deafness may not become apparent for some years, treatment is often initiated far too late. ‘Noise destroys – turn down the volume’ is also the message to come from the Australian Tinnitus Association. Tinnitus literally means noise or ringing in the ears, but the constantly annoying sound that many sufferers live with 24 hours a day takes many forms. Many of us experience tinnitus from time to time, but for a small percentage of the population, it can be severe and quite disturbing. Apart from noise, there are some other possible aggravating factors for tinnitus. Some medicines – notably some anti-inflammatory and anti-depressant medicines – have been identified as potential causes. Caffeine (found in tea, coffee, cola or chocolate) and alcohol may worsen tinnitus in some people. Smoking (which narrows the blood vessels which supply vital oxygen to the ears), can also make tinnitus worse. Tinnitus can often be managed or controlled reasonably well; even so, a cure doesn’t really seem close at hand. However, treatment for some other common ear problems is often much easier, provided the cause can be identified early on. The Ear Problems Self Care Fact Card is available from pharmacies throughout Australia providing the Pharmaceutical Society’s Self Care health information can help with hints on how to reduce the risk of ear problems and treat those problems effectively when they do occur. For the nearest Self-Care pharmacy location, phone the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia on 1300 369 772, or Ask Piggotts!

5/149 Ambleside Circuit, Lakelands PH 4954 5044 www.themayahclinic.com.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37


Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company

Love Wine & Food?

Do you know who’s on your doorstep?

EST. 1999

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 19 years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!

Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, Broke Road

www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au

Now in its 14th issue, Wine & Dine Hunter Valley is proud to represent the Hunter Valley - Australia’s premier wine region, where the pleasures of eating and drinking are celebrated daily. If you could package up the best wine and food experiences in the Hunter Valley and put it in one place, it would be in the latest issue of Wine & Dine Hunter Valley - the Hunter Valley’s most comprehensive guide to cellar doors, restaurants, craft breweries, local produce and includes wine and food trail maps, feature articles, dining reviews, chef and winemaker profiles and recommended wines to try. Where there is great wine, great food usually follows, and the Hunter Valley is no exception. Celebrated as Australia’s oldest and most visited wine region, the Hunter Valley is considered the country’s leading food and wine destination and home to some of Australia’s most outstanding wines, winemakers, restaurants and chefs. You

will be spoiled for choice with the Hunters vibrant gourmet food culture and exceptional wineries. So stay a while and go wine tasting, choose from a diversity of restaurants and cafes spread throughout the region, attend a wine tasting or cooking class, visit a brewery and taste the delights of boutique production craft beer, book a wine tour or self-drive using Wine & Dine Hunter Valley – the complete guide to all the best wine and food experiences in the Hunter Valley.

New Issue – OUT NOW! If you love wine and food (and craft beers and ciders), then make sure you pick up the latest copy of Wine & Dine Hunter Valley which can be found at all good cellar doors, visitor information centres, cafes, restaurants tourist attractions, hotels and major accommodation providers. Or read it online! Visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au today!

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN ESTATE POKO VIN EYARD

Winery - 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

Oishii Japanese Thai Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant

Restaurant

Australia’s only Asian restaurant in a winery! Located at Roche Estate, in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Oishii has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Whether dining inside the minimalist Asian themed dining hall or on the outside undercover terrace overlooking the vines encircling the architecturally designed amphitheatre, Oishii has become a “must dining experience.”

The Lady i

n Pin k . . .

Tempranillo T Temp ranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Nebbiol Rosé f adventure d today od at ...Pokolbin P k Estate. Get your taste for

Pokolbin Estate Vineyard | 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm | PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au 38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Oishii’s Asian chefs have composed an extensive menu of lightly prepared fragrant dishes showcasing regional produce. In true Asian style dishes are perfect for sharing and ideal for families and friends. The fast take away options are also delicious.

J A PA N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E

ADDRESS Roche Estate Complex, Corner of Broke and Mcdonald Rd’s, Pokolbin RESTAURANT 7 Days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7051 W www.oishii.com.au


NOW TASTING

iting New, exc Rosso... /

illo Tempran nd ble t e Cabern

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 28th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fied and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. • All wines are made in our onsite winery • Winery tas�ngs available for larger groups – bookings essen�al! • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome • On most occasions you will be looked a�er by one of the Mistletoe Family

QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE With three genera�ons now ac�vely engaged in the day to day opera�on of Mistletoe, it is truly a unique family winery.

When visi�ng Mistletoe be sure to take �me to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door. Mistletoe is now just 35 minutes from Newcastle – take the Hunter Expressway M15 which becomes the A15 (New England Highway) at Branxton and then take the Hermitage Road exit.

Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com.au | W www.mistletoewines.com.au


MAKING YOUR LIFE FOR YOU…

Mindfully

“I'm a practical thinker and person... some would describe me as a “doer”,” Matt said. “So when I see thousands of young people’s emails and messages in my inbox crying out for help with anxiety, bullying, mental illness and family problems for years now, writing a book on some practical tools and tactics seemed natural.

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Mentoring, mindfulness and mental health are at the core of what drives Newcastle musician and motivational speaker Matt Purcell. The Korean-born man, who was adopted as a child by his Australian parents, has recently published his first book, Life Hacks for Mindful Living, and is about to release his new EP, Songs For a Friend. Both have been inspired by his work as a life coach and mentor for young people, as well as his own experiences with bullying and social issues at school. “Being adopted as a child from Korea and going through many challenges through school - family challenges, bullying and seeing others go through their stress and pain - I think instilled in me an obsession in wanting to discover what drives our behaviour,” he said. “There’s a distinct belief that drives my efforts to inspire others. It’s that no matter what happens in your life, you can make it work for you and not against you if you’re willing to be teachable, accountable and be willing to question the story you keep telling yourself and others about your reasons why you can or can't do something. “Role models have always played an important part in human history because they reveal what is possible - they show us what forgiveness looks like, what leadership looks like, what family looks like. “My focus is mental health and wellbeing. I believe we all have the capacity and responsibility to manage our mental health and if we don't, we risk living a life enslaved by the pressures of culture, life, and others.” Matt believes learning techniques to improve a person’s mental health and well-being helps to empower them. It is something he has been putting into practice for years, speaking to young people in schools for a not-for-profit organisation and working with people at his Warners Bay business The Green Room. It is a message he hopes to spread even further through his new book. 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

“Anxiety is Australia’s number one mental illness and concern. One-quarter of young people are experiencing it. What tools are we taught to deal with our emotional and psychological challenges? “The book contains many techniques and important stats on anxiety, stress and an overview of what mental health is and why it is so important to manage. “I am working with schools across NSW right now who are wanting the book in a school program format, and I’m developing a mental health program for the fitness industry too. “Mental health techniques and awareness are two very important things that will help empower people.” Music is also the perfect conduit for getting a message across to young people. Matt has been recording songs since he was a teenager and has a solid base of fans around the world and especially in Asia, where he was signed to a major Korean music label. His sound has been described as a combination of John Mayer’s guitar style and Ed Sheeran’s smooth vocals. Matt said he loved how much could be communicated in the few minutes it takes to listen to a song, with music helping him “through a lot of tough times” over the years. “I have been a musician by trade since I was a teenager, I started recording music when I was 16 and toured and shared the stage with some of my favourite Australian artists,” he said.

“I was signed to a subdivision of Sony in Korea when I was 21, and we sold around 50,000 in online sales. “Needless to say, the contract was terrible, and I experienced a blow in the music industry at a young age. “Since my Korean experience, I have continued to evolve as an artist and have released a new single just before my new EP comes out, which is called Songs For A Friend. “This release has been birthed from a much different place in my life (than the previous EPs). Musically it’s emotive and dynamic, and lyrically very conversational and story based. I really like these tracks. “I’ve been life-coaching youth and families for the past four years, speaking and performing around the place and meeting so many types of people. “All of these songs have been written from a real observation of different people’s choices and consequences. One song on this EP came from how a young kid assaulted his single-parent mother and how I went to court with him to support him. Another one was about a friend who had her heart broken by the same type of guy over and over again. “The needs that drive our actions inspire me to write songs. “My latest single ‘Take It Slow’ is all about being mindful of how quickly people grow up, how that no matter if you’re 90 or 14 years old, you'll never be this young again.” While Matt hopes to be a positive influence on other people’s lives through his work, his words and his music, the 29-year-old said his own influences have been many and varied. “One of my favourite proverbs is ‘It takes a tribe to raise a child’, and I think that explains so much about my influences,” he said. “My parents - who I love dearly, adopted me and my adopted sister. They taught me selflessness and support. My music tutors gave me confidence and guidance. “Christianity has also really influenced my values. Not confusing it with religion, what I call “Churchianity”, which focuses more on the practices and running of activities, but I mean the real values of what it's all about. Human value and flourishing. I’m into that. Looking after the poor and needy, the widows, the broken. That is what true religion is.” Check out more of Matt Purcell’s work online at www.mattpurcell.com


School

HOLIDAY FUN!

50+ super-fun

activities for kids ( big and small) to enjoy!

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41


From Creepy Crawlies to Cockatoos – We’ve got you Covered these Holidays! WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Looking for a few budget boredom busters for these school holidays? Newcastle and Lake Macquarie councils have put together a cracking calendar of activities for kids of all ages, with the mixture of free and paid activities ensuring there is something fun for everyone to enjoy. NEWCASTLE REGION LIBRARIES From Bad Guys to “bookgami”, there are plenty of reasons to check out the region’s libraries this month. The ever-popular Lego workshops will be held across the library network these school holidays, with free sessions giving five to 12-year-old children the chance to build a scene from their favourite book.

Celebrate those much-loved but misunderstood villains at The Bad Guys Party on April 23 and 26 or recycle old books into fantastic new creations while learning the ancient art of origami at Hamilton, Beresfield and Mayfield libraries on various dates this month. There’s also a chance to create your own shadow puppet theatre, enjoy the Captain Underpants movie at a family movie afternoon or learn more about life in the trenches with a lifesized display of WWI artefacts. Older children can tap into their creative sides with a series of workshops aimed at teenagers, including the chance to explore fantasy writing with acclaimed children’s writer Paul Russell, make their own tote bag or self-publish a teen zine. Harry Potter fans aged 12 to 18 years can also put their skills to the test with an exciting Azkaban-themed escape room challenge at Wallsend Library on Friday, April 27. Bookings for all activities are essential. To find out what’s on near you, check out www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/Library/ Whats-On NEWCASTLE MUSEUM For those who love all things creepy and crawly, Newcastle Museum will be the place to visit this month, with the Spiders exhibition giving you the chance to learn more about the awesome arachnids, as well as see live specimens of some of Australia's most famous spiders. There’s also a series of spider-themed events, including a live funnel-web spider venom milking demonstration on April 20 (free when you purchase a ticket into Spiders), the chance to create a spider or insect out of recycled materials (Creature Creation, April 18) and the much-loved science shows, which this time around will look at the amazing world of arthropods. For more details visit www.newcastlemuseum.com.au ►

Get Wild at

Hunter

If you are bringing a group or having a party just give us a call and enquire about reserving an area to yourself. With keeper talks and shows throughout the day there is something for everyone; and for those who want to get even closer, you can book in for one our unique animal encounters for an experience you’ll never forget!* ALL AGES We’re open every day during school Come and visit the Hunter Valley Zoo this school holidays! See our Lions, Meerkats, and holidays. We’ll see you on the wild side! *All encounters are charged separately to all your favourite native friends. Get up close general admission, bookings essential! and personal in our interactive walkthrough enclosures where you can feed our farmyard DETAILS 138 Lomas Lane, Nulkaba, NSW animals, Kangaroos, Lorikeets and Camels. Why not make use of our free picnic and BBQ 2325. Ph 4990 7714. Open 9am - 4pm facilities? There’s no better place to relax and (closed Wed outside school holidays). www.huntervalleyzoo.com.au enjoy the atmosphere.

Valley Zoo!

42 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Art Space|Art Club Art Zone|Art Studio Holiday Art Classes artgallery.lakemac.com.au


supervised art-making space, although an adult must accompany all participants.

NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY There will be plenty of opportunities to indulge your artistic side at Newcastle Art Gallery, with art workshops scheduled almost every day of the school holidays. Inspired by the current exhibition of work from artist Elisabeth Cummings, children can take part in a one-hour Colourful Collage session ($10 per person) or engage in the free do-it-yourself art activity in the Gallery's Smart Space. Budding sculptors can also get their hands dirty making their own piece of artwork as part of the What Shape Is It? Workshops ($10), while the regular Art Cart events on Saturdays and Sundays provide an opportunity to engage and interact with the current exhibitions. For more details visit www.nag.org.au LAKE MACQUARIE LIBRARIES Story time will be extra special at Morisset and Toronto libraries these holidays, with a chance to meet and hear from local children’s book authors. Writer Lynn Jenkins and illustrator Kirrili Lonergan will help perfectionists learn to accept their mistakes when they read their newest book, Perfect Petunias during the Stories in the Big Blue Chair session at Toronto on April 24, while Ant Wood will read from Flaming Charli and Dancing Charli before participants make their own version of the picture books’ main character, a Sulphur-crested cockatoo, during the workshop at Morisset on April 26. Learn to draw sessions, Lego building and a fun spiderbased presentation will also be on offer at various Lake Macquarie libraries, while crafty kids will be able to make their own poppy flower ready for ANZAC Day in the free workshop at Speers Point Library on Monday, April 23.

Try Printmaking at Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery

To find out more details, prices and information on how to book a spot, visit www.library.lakemac.com.au/kids/schoolholiday-fun. LAKE MACQUARIE CITY ART GALLERY Indulge your inner artist at Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery these holidays with a chance to explore printmaking techniques (April 17, 24) or textile art techniques including dying and printing (April 18) in sessions inspired by the current exhibitions. Each workshop costs $20 per person and is suitable for children aged seven years and older. Bookings are essential. Contact 4921 0382 or visit artgallery.lakemac.com.au for more details. Young children can also enjoy self-directed art activities every Sunday from 10.30am to noon in the gallery’s

OUT AND ABOUT Summer may be over, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect your swimming skills, with an intensive five-day School Holiday Learn to Swim Program on offer at two of Lake Macquarie’s swim centres. Suitable for children aged three years and older, the program will boost your child’s confidence in the water, with beginner to transition levels available. The program will run each week during the school holidays and cost $55 (four-day program for $44 in the second week due to ANZAC Day), with bookings required by calling Charlestown on 4921 0782 or West Wallsend on 4921 0738. Children can also enjoy the great outdoors during Jungle Adventures with The Rover, which will be held at Allambee Park, Valentine from 10.30am to 11.30am on Saturday, April 28. Children aged four to eight years will hear stories, play games and have a wild time at the event, which is free to attend. For more information about all the activities on offer visit www.lakemac.com.au/recreation/whats-on/school-holidays ■

An intensive 5-day Swim Program at a Lake Macquarie Swim Centre

H OL IDAY TIM E IS HER E!

TRY

Mini Golf! HOME OF MINI GOLF AND FOOTGOLF With a relaxing 11 hole golf course, the only FootGolf course in the Hunter and a brandnew 18-hole Mini Golf Course, Beresfield Golf Course provides a fabulously fun day out for family and friends with something for everyone! Mini Golf and Footgolf are great fun activities for the holidays – they are active and the whole family can play. Book the kids in for a super-fun School Holiday Golf Clinic where they will learn the basics of golf, meet friends

I T' S FOR EVERY BODY MENTION INTOUCH MAGAZIN FOR A 10 E DISCOUN % T!

Scenic

Helicopter

and get to play some real golf (along with some footgolf and mini golf of course!), all under the eyes of a qualified coach. At Beresfield Golf you can enjoy great undercover outdoor areas and a BBQ* - making it the perfect and affordable destination for your next kids party, social group or work party. *Hire charges apply.

WITH SKYLINE AVIATION

DETAILS Mini Golf – Open every day from 10am; FootGolf – Open every day from 10am (excepting Sat & Sun – after 12noon). Check the Facebook page for golf clinic details or call 4966 4665. 260 Anderson Dr, Beresfield. www.beresfieldgolf.com.au

AGES 3 AND OVER Get the kids out of the house and show them the best experience they’ll have these holidays! With Scenic Helicopter Flights from $95, we can show the kids a view of Newcastle and the Hunter Valley like never before.

Flights

Departing directly out of Lake Macquarie Airport and the Hunter Valley, our helicopter joy flights cover everything from stunning beaches to mountain ranges and the city of Newcastle! Don’t leave them in front of the iPad, give them an experience they’ll never forget these holidays! DETAILS 7 Days a week, 8:30am to 5:30pm. Located at 864 Pacific Hwy, Marks Point. www.skylineav.com.au

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Art House

Studios

AGES 6+ Art House Studios is a spacious, creative sanctuary that offers children engaging opportunities to draw, paint and craft in a real art studio. Book your child into 2 hour, 3 hour or full day workshops this holiday. Relax knowing that they are spending quality time in a safe, fully equipped environment. Time off screens,

learning creative skills and having fun – winwin! Each workshop is led by Priya Joy, an artist and qualified teacher with over 20 years of experience. Your child will build confidence in their skills and meet new friends in a relaxed, artistic atmosphere. Our workshops fill quickly, find the timetable and booking form online. DETAILS Level 1, 268 Turton Road, New Lambton. PH 4049 6229 or M 0478 116 313 www.arthousestudios.com.au

include a pre-signed copy of The 104-Storey Treehouse. Griffiths and Denton won’t be signing books at the event, but children will be able to have their photograph taken with the pair. The award-winning Treehouse series has been published in more than 30 countries worldwide with millions of copies sold. The creative duo has added 13 new levels to the treehouse, including a stupid-hat level, a refrigerator-throwing level, a bun-fighting level, a tangled-up level and a deepthoughts thinking room. Newcastle Writers Festival director Rosemarie Milsom has been liaising with publisher Pan Macmillan for close to three years to attract Griffiths and Denton to Newcastle. “This is a unique opportunity to spend an hour in conversation with Andy and Terry as we step into their wacky Treehouse world. “The festival is committed to boosting children’s love of books and inspiring creativity in a fun setting. This year’s soldMuch-loved Australian children’s author out Schools Program, which is offered in Andy Griffiths and his illustrator sidekick partnership with Port of Newcastle, will Terry Denton are visiting Newcastle in the see 1600 primary students fill sessions at July school holidays to celebrate the launch of their new book The 104-Storey Treehouse. Newcastle Region Library and Newcastle City Hall on April 6. Guest authors such as The event will be held on Sunday, July Tristan Bancks and Kate and Jol Temple will 15, at NEX, the Newcastle Exhibition and host talks and workshops. Conference Centre in King Street. “This event with Andy and Terry in July is Tickets are on sale now ($25 at the icing on the cake,” said Milsom. www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au) and

ANDY GRIFFITHS and TERRY DENTON to Launch The 104-Storey Treehouse in Newcastle

CALLING ALL SUPERHEROS... Get ready for 3 ACTION-PACKED DAYS THESE HOLIDAYS with superhero makeovers, merch, food & fun! CENTRE COURT . 10AM - 2PM DAILY THURSDAY 26 . FRIDAY 27 . SATURDAY 28 APRIL

over 3 big days

44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Only at

CHARLESTOWN SQUARE


Kara Wood Ceramics AGES 6 - 14 YEARS Kara Wood Ceramics is a teaching studio offering both children’s and adult classes from beginner to advanced skill levels. During the April School Holidays we will be running fabulously-fun children’s ceramic workshops! Children have a natural affinity with clay, so we let them try throwing on the wheel, making a self-portrait or building a mythical creature. All workshops include materials, firing and glazing. For more information, opening hours, or to book your child's place in a workshop please visit ww.karawood.com.au

LOCATED Block O, 91 Chinchen Street, Tighes Hill PH 0478 526 132

Lazy Paddles AGES 2+ Lazy Paddles has provided guided tours and kayak hire from Tea Gardens since 2002 helping thousands experience the fun of paddling on the beautiful Myall waterways. Join us on a guided tour at 10am everyday of the school holidays (bookings essential) or hire a kayak and explore the area yourself. Experience the tranquillity of the mangroves, observe water birds up close – you may even encounter dolphins. We launch from Anzac Park on Marine Drive, Tea Gardens – look out for our kayak trailer and flag opposite the fire station. Bookings advised.

PH 0412 832 220 www.lazypaddles.com.au

INSPIRING AND EDUCATIONAL WRITING WORKSHOPS FOR KIDS Create a Picture Book With Shapes (5-8 yo) Thursday 19 April, 10am-1pm: Jess Black - This fun and messy workshop is all about creating a visual story. We’ll be using the picture book Triangle by Mac Barnett as our inspiration for creating characters from 2D shapes! Using collage, charcoal, crayon and coloured pencils, we’ll craft a story in a richly imagined world of shapes. The Magic Door (8-13yo) Friday 20 April, 10am-1pm: Jess Black - Fantasy writing is a genre that children are naturally drawn to. In this workshop children can explore their own portal into a magic world through the device of a magic door. They will work on the world, the setting, characters, magical creatures and devices and how to make it back to their own world. Spy Stories (8-14yo) Thursday 26 April, 10am-1pm: Ed Wright - Create secret agents who wear disguises, use amazing gadgets and trade in dangerous secrets. Write stories

of ingenious spies, undercover agents, double-crossers and devious villains. Pet Tales (6-13) Friday 27 April, 10am1pm: Ed Wright - How do you persuade your parents to add a member to the family. What kind of pet are you going to get? And what kind of havoc is your new pet going to cause. Enjoy writing in different genres about your favourite animals, real or imaginary. WORKSHOPS $80 (bring a brother/sister/ friend or sign up for 2 classes, 2 for $140) DETAILS Suite 51, Level 1, 164-170 Hunter Street. E ed@creativewordshop.com.au PH Ed 0408 788 765. Away for the holidays? Talk to Ed to organise in school, before school or after school workshops during term time. www.creativewordshop.com.au

Jet Flight Simulator AGES 6 AND UP - NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED Have you ever wanted to feel what it is like to captain a 737? Here is your chance to virtually experience the thrill of being in control of the most popular plane in the world, and no experience is needed. Choose your favorite airport or city to take off from. Just before take-off you will be briefed on the primary controls, instruments and procedures necessary to be ready for take-off. After permission from Air Traffic Control you will accelerate the plane down the runway and take-off. During your flight you will be fully immersed in your experience. You will be managing your airspeed, altitude and watching your heading whilst monitoring any other air traffic. The wide array of screens and indicators will also need to be monitored.

• 737 simulator experience • Gift vouchers available • No experience needed (kids 6+) • Payment over the phone • Bring up to 4 passengers for FREE • 22,000 destinations • Fly alongside an experienced instructor • By appointment only • Buy now, book later

Enter this link to receive 50% off discount! www.jetflightsimulatornewcastle.com.au/intouch

or call 1300-SIM-FLIGHT (1300-746-354) Prices: 30min $89 (was $199) 60min $139 (was $349) 90min $218 (was $479) 120min $249 (was $599)

DETAILS By appointment only. 1 Tudor St, Newcastle. PH 1300-746-354. /JetFlightSimulatorNewcastle

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Learn to Surf Newcastle AGES 5 - ADULT Weetbix Surf Groms is back again this April school holidays! Lessons are available each week commencing April 16th and 23rd - learn to Surf with Miles Niddrie. All equipment is supplied and every class includes surf safety education. Great kid to coach ratios for ages 5-12 yrs (Surf Groms) and 13-18 yrs (Surfteens), with four x 1.5 hour classes Monday to Thursday each week of the holidays. Over 18's to adults catered for too with single 1.5 hour lessons daily.

www.learntosurfnewcastle.com E miles@learntosurfnewcastle.com PH 0404 839 585

DON'T M ISS The Teddy Bears Picnic on Easter Su nday!

Finite Gallery AGES 6 - 18 YEARS The kids are sure to be kept busy this school holidays with the fantastic range of 2-hour children’s workshops at Finite Gallery! Parents and Carers are also welcome to participate, so why not make it a fun family day? With a range of workshops on offer there is something for everyone. PLUS Join the Gallery's 5th Birthday Celebrations! 20th April - 3 FREE 1hr Kids Workshops 21st April - Art Market 22nd April - Doggy Drawing Day

Learn with

SLAM!

STEM . Learning . Arts . Makerspace FOR SCHOOL AGE KIDS SLAM is running holiday workshops for kids throughout December and January. With a range of workshops that include robotics, coding your own video games, sewable electronics, aircraft design, building your own electronic instruments and augmented reality – there’s something to keep every little genius busy. There’s no such thing as “I’m bored” with SLAM!! 46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Hunter Valley www.finitegallery.com/learn LOCATED 60 Caves Beach Rd, Caves Beach E info@finitegallery.com PH 0419 471 660

SLAM also run after-school workshops each week in selected schools. For primary schools, SLAM’s professional development programs focus on the new Science & Technology syllabus, Design Thinking and STEM, and can bring a whole new dimension to the school curriculum! DETAILS Call Rob on 0422 709 463 or visit www.slameducation.com for a full program of activities. /slameducation twitter.com/slamedu @slamedu

Horseriding & Adventures ALL AGES Get away from city living and go horseriding! It’s the perfect day trip - just 30 minutes up the Hunter Expressway you’ll find a place where you can relax, get back to nature, treat the kids or just stop and smell the roses! Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders. Take in the scenery as you ride the unique and beautiful Molly Morgan Range, and experience the spectacular views of the Hunter Valley and as far north as Barrington Tops. Not to mention the amazing native wildlife that will be a memory not soon forgotten - you can even ride among kangaroos and wallabies! Even the tiny tots can jump on board, with beautiful ponies and qualified guides leading the way. We also offer full day horse riding camps for the teens (12-16 yrs old) where they will get to groom & feed horses, learn about looking after horses, saddlery, and of course ride! You could also enjoy a picnic (we have over 300 acres of great spots), utilise our BBQ facilities, enjoy a tractor hay ride to feed the animals, check out the kangaroos, hiking and mountain bike trails or sunset rides. Plus, don’t forget to visit our aviary to say hello to our birds, guinea pigs, goats and sheep. We have also recently introduced the new pedal go karts! An activity that is sure to keep the kids busy, and ready to hit the hay later on. If you feel like staying a little longer, we offer great guest house and semi self contained villa accommodation, where kids stay free during school holidays! (Villas only).

Be quick to book, as we have limited spots available. Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures is really your one stop shop for an awesome school holiday experience that we know the kids will love. So, get back to nature, breathe that fresh country air and enjoy a seamless experience like no other. Whether you are up for a day trip, or plan to stay a little longer, this is the perfect way to feel your school holiday stresses slip away! Book the kids in for some outdoor fun today. DETAILS Open 7 days, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale. Bookings are recommended, phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008. www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au


Tr u s t , h o n e s t y, t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d a c c o u n t a b i l i t y a r e t h e building blocks of a positive relationship If you have ever gone through the process of selling a home, chances are your memories of the experience will be filled with commissions, percentages, extra fees for the sign, marketing and the lis t goes on. M a y b e y o u h a v e e n g a g e d a n a g e n t t o m a n a g e y o u r i n v e s t m e n t p r o p e r t y, o n l y t o f i n d t h a t t h e m o n e y m a d e f r o m t h e i n v e s t m e n t i s b e i n g e a t e n u p i n f e e s?

W h at if yo u r ex p e r ie n ce wa s dif fe re nt?

What if you knew the costs and had the securit y of knowing you c o u l d w i t h d r a w f r o m t h e a g r e e m e n t i f y o u w e r e u n h a p p y? This is possible with Hart Property and our flat fee ser vices.

O ur Fully Inclusive Fixed Fee packages provide t he bes t value, the best results and the best customer experience in a changing, dynamic proper t y market like our great region. Conveyancing is included as par t of the package, no need to shop around f o r a l o c a l c o n v e y a n c e r o r e x p e n s i v e s o l i c i t o r, w e ’ v e d o n e t h e w o r k f o r y o u . Conveyancing for sellers is a relatively simple and uncomplicated process. All marketing costs are included as par t of our fee, no additional money up-front l i k e o t h e r a g e n c i e s w i l l a s k f o r. H a r t P r o p e r t y l e a d t h e r e g i o n i n c o s t e f f e c t i v e , highly success ful social media marketing c ampaigns. What we believe will undoubtedly be the future of selling Real Estate.

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