Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley | INTOUCH MAGAZINE APRIL 20' ISSUE

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WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU

ISSUE #54 // APRIL 2020

KEEP THE KIDS BUSY This School Holidays!

TOMMY LITTLE

The Show Will Go On

NEWCASTLE GRAMMAR SCHOOL Shines a Spotlight on Sporting Achievements EXPLORE THE IDEA Of the Fools Journey WORKING FROM HOME Tailored HQ style!

WAYS TO KEEP CALM During the Madness

Lifestyle // Entertainment // Dining // Community // Travel // Family // Health // Home // Property

Newcastle Grammar School Production of

Book by

Music and Lyrics by

Winnie Holzman

Stephen Schwartz

Based on the novel by Gregory Maguire Orchestrations by William David Brohn Music Arrangements Alex Lacamoire & Stephen Oremus

2 4 D- UN2TI7L 2021 TPONE POJ SU NE 2020 New dates announced soon.

Visit www.civictheatre.com.au for updates.

CIVIC THEATRE NEWCASTLE

(02) 4929 1977

Licensed exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia).

All performance materials supplied by Hal Leonard Australia.

From the Editors...

As we go to print, we are all trying to quell the feeling of panic rising in our chests and put on a brave face (albeit behind a mask if you can find one). Keep Calm and Wash Your Hands. It’s plastered all over social media, but in times like this, you have to dig deep to find your inner calm amidst the minute by minute, blow by blow media coverage of the COVID-19 crisis. How to keep calm when all you want to do is dissolve into a puddle of tears.

In Australia, we are in a unique position. Not only are we an island (ok that’s not totally unique), but we are in a position where we can learn from other countries who are much further into this pandemic about the best ways to defeat this insidious virus. We can see what works and what doesn’t – all we need to do is listen to the advice we are given – and to coin a famous slogan – just do it.

At no point in this crisis did the experts tell us to get together for a beach party on our favourite shoreline. At no point were we recommended to go to the pub with our mates, or rush to the supermarket for a lifetime supply of toilet paper, or jump on a last-minute cruise because it was cheap. And yet thousands of Australian (you know who you are) did just that.

This crisis sees the rise of a new breed of Australian in droves never previously seen. The un-Australian.

Perhaps they’ve always been here lurking amongst us? Surely the same Australians that pulled together to support victims of our countries worst ever bush fire season just weeks ago are not the same Australians that are so selfish as to flout the advice we are given by people with far more expertise and knowledge than ourselves and put their fellow Australians at enormous risk?

And yet here they are, rushing to venues before the closure deadlines, stockpiling groceries, contravening social distancing recommendations and not self-isolating as they’ve been told to do. And as a result, any opportunity that we had to learn from countries that are slaying the curve is lost.

Keep Calm Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. And whatever you are told to do – Just Do It! Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

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ISSUE #54 APRIL 2020 Features 7

Newcastle Farmers Markets is on!

9

Sending out an SOS for our beloved performers

12

Tommy Little: The Show Will Go On

16

NGS Shines a Spotlight on Sporting Achievements

18

Write Yourself a Masterpiece in Self Isolation

19

Ways to Keep Calm During the Madness

21

Working From Home... In Style

22

Maintaining Support for The Olive Tree Markets

25

Let's Talk About Sundowning

26

Explore the Idea of the Fools Journey

28

Good Fundamentals Key to Dental Treatment

29

Keeping Healthy at Home

30

On Tour with the Kid

31

Keep the Kids Busy this School Holidays

10

Horoscope

Contacts

20

Home + Lifestyle

Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen – quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen – di@intouchmagazine.com.au Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address Level 1, 216 Pacific Highway, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales Phone (02) 4943 0888

22

Family + Community

27

Health + Wellbeing

30

Social Scene

GET MOBILE!

CONTRIBUTORS

View this month’s Issue of intouch magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone.

Michelle Meehan Jess Codrington Di von Essen Quentin von Essen Tanya Obreza Claire Bradshaw Chloe O'Sullivan AJM Photography Kim-Cherie Davidson

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU /INTOUCHMAGAZINES @INTOUCHMAGAZINES

4 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Comedian Tommy Little was a few weeks into his biggest national tour to date when Australia’s coronavirus lockdowns began in earnest. Despite the setback, Tommy is upbeat about the future and why sometimes laughter is the best medicine.

Read more on page 12.

Regulars What’s on Guide + Highlights

© Copyright 2020 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

PAGE 31

Contents

6

Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen and Olivia Rodgers Graphic Design Jess Codrington Feature Writers Michelle Meehan & Claire Bradshaw

PAGE 22

Alex Huszti Melinda Murray Lara O'Donnell Michelle Payne Kristen Goldsworthy Mia Kyrikos

APPLY

for a Sporting Scholarship Applications for 2022 OPEN October 2020

Our NEW sporting programme ensures synergy between athletic pursuits and academic success.

For more information go to www.ngs.nsw.edu.au

COMMUNITY EAT AROUND THE WORLD From Your Own Home!

With the epidemic making it hard to go out for dinner, many of our favourite local spots are resorting to only offering takeaway and home delivery. You can support them by trying something new (or just one of your faves) – and why not make it a bit fun! Here are some international style cuisines available around Newcastle – try to order directly from each spot when possible and check each individual spot for any updates.

ETHIOPIAN Habesha, The Junction TA/free delivery www.habeshafood.com INDIAN Sapphire Indian, Merewether TA/delivery www.sapphireindianrestaurant.com.au Zaffran Indian, Newcastle TA/delivery www.orderfromus.com.au/ zaffranindianrestaurant MEXICAN Antojitos, Newcastle TA only www.antojitos.com.au Muchos Mexican, The Junction TA only See Facebook for menu ITALIAN Casa-Nova, Toronto TA/delivery www.casanovaonthelake.com Don Beppinos, Merewether TA only See Facebook for menu Northern Star Café, Hamilton TA/delivery www.northernstarcafe.com.au Bella Italia, Newcastle TA/free delivery www.bellaitaliaristorante.com.au JAPANESE Nagisa, Honeysuckle TA/delivery www.nagisa.com.au Susuru TA/delivery www.susuru.com.au SPANISH Barrio 2304, Mayfield TA only See Facebook for menu Bocados, Newcastle TA/free delivery www.bocados.com.au AMERICAN STYLE Smokin Hot 'n Saucy, Islington TA only www.smokinhotnsaucy.com.au Adam's Ribs & Pizza, Adamstown TA www.ilovepizza.com.au THAI Schilly Thai Fusion, Charlestown Lilly Thai, Warners Bay TA/delivery www.lillythai.com.au Yumm Thai Exclusive, Wallsend TA/ delivery. www.yumm-thai.com.au MIDDLE EASTERN Zaaki Espresso TA/delivery www.zaakiespresso.com.au These are definitely not the only options out there – search around for more!

6 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

EVENT UPDATES + CANCELLATIONS On March 11th The World Health Organization (WHO) declared Covid-19 a pandemic. As a result a number of Hunter events have been cancelled or postponed amid health concerns for the spread of the Corona virus.

With most events having been cancelled in April and May, we are looking forward a few months ahead with optimism that things will settle down. As we go to print, pubs, restaurants and cafés are still operating under strict guidelines, with takeaway or home delivery only. Please check individual events for any updates, as details may change after we go to print.

POSTPONED/CANCELLED EVENTS The following events have not been cancelled, just postponed (ticket holders encouraged to hold onto their tickets). Promoters are working tirelessly towards rescheduling, which may take some time.

Ross Noble – Humournoid Originally March 19; now October 9, at Civic Theatre.

Raid My Wardrobe Originally April 5, now June 14, Newcastle Basketball Stadium.

Olive Tree Markets Unfortunately cancelled until at least the end of May. New dates TBC.

Lenny Kravitz Originally April 6; new date TBC at Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Homegrown Markets Cancelled TBA – check out their online marketplace (in the making) www.homegrownmarkets.com.au.

Hunter in Concert Originally April 8; new date TBC at City Hall.

Inflatable Fun at The Station Originally April 10–26; new dates TBC. Mega Creatures at Hunter Valley Gardens Originally April 10–26; new date Sept 26–Oct 11 (Sept School Holidays).

Easter at Hunter Valley Gardens Originally April 10–13; now cancelled. The Hunter Valley Gardens are closed until further notice.

The Witches – Hunter Drama Originally April 15–18; new date TBC at The Playhouse.

Burton Automotive Hunter Valley Steamfest Originally April 18+19; cancelled until next year.

Under The Southern Stars Originally April 19; new date TBC at Foreshore Park.

Friendlyjordies Cancels The Media Originally April 24; new date TBC at 48 Watt St. PAW Patrol Live! Originally April 26; new date TBC at Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

2020 Hunter Rescue Ball Originally May 1; new date TBC at Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Warners Bay Markets Cancelled TBA.

JUNE Tyrannosaurus: Ultimate Predators Exhibition at SEEN@Swansea, June 6–Aug 2.

Raid My Wardrobe June 14, at Newcastle Basketball Stadium.

Newcastle Outdoor Adventure & Motoring Expo 19–21 June, Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

AUGUST It's a Fashion Thing A night of fun, fashion and fundraising. Help Lifeline Hunter achieve the vision to see an Australia free of suicide. www.lifelinedirect.org.au/events Newcastle Festival of Running August 2. www.newrun.com.au

SEPTEMBER Lifeline World Suicide Prevention Day Lifeline invites everyone to walk from Dixon Park to Merewether Baths (return). 5.30am for a 6am departure. www.lifelinedirect.org.au/events

Lovedale Long Lunch Originally May 16+17; cancelled until next year (May 15+16, 2021).

Thrashville A one-day punk, metal, rock infused jaunt, purposed to loosen your joints and calm your tendencies! September 12. Visit www.dashville.com.au

My Kids Market Originally March 22; new date TBC at Newcastle Basketball Stadium.

Newcastle Comedy Festival Gala 2020 Originally May 16–23; now November 21+22.

The Big 80's Party At Hope Estate, September 19. www.hopeestate.com.au

Tim Minchin – Back Originally March 23+24; new date TBC at Civic Theatre.

Carl Barron Originally May 16; now November 7 at Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Mega Creatures at Hunter Valley Gardens Sept 26–Oct 11 (Sept School Holidays).

50 Shades of Ethnic – Sooshi Mango Originally March 21; new date TBC at Civic Theatre.

Gordon Koang – Music in Exile Originally March 26; new date TBC at The Playhouse.

APRIL

Spiegeltent Newcastle Originally March 26–19 April, new date TBC at Civic Park.

Easter Good Friday April 10; Easter Saturday April 11; Easter Sunday April 12; Easter Monday April 13.

Variety Spin 4 Kids Originally March 27, new date TBC at The Forum, Honeysuckle.

Anzac Day April 25 – All public events have been cancelled.

Chess The Musical Originally March 27+28; now February 26+27 2021, at Civic Theatre.

Newcastle City Farmers Markets The farmers markets are considered an essential food source and are able to trade for as long as they are advised it is safe. Find them every Sunday at Newcastle Showground 7am–1pm (NJC on April 26, 9am–1pm – may change).

Carl Barron Originally Mar 31– May 15; new date TBC at Civic Theatre.

Newcastle Writers Festival Originally April 3–5; now May 14–16 2021.

Sound Station Music & Arts Festival Originally April 4; new date TBC at The Station.

Newcastle Festival of Running Originally April 5; now August 2. www.newrun.com.au Hunter Arts Network Art Bazaar Originally April 5, new date TBC at Speers Point Park.

Local Parkrun Events Currently cancelled, pending. Keep an eye out via Parkrun Australia or your local Parkrun Facebook pages.

Running the course is not encouraged (on the off chance others also show up).

Lizotte's Newcastle Currently closed. Check their socials and any rescheduled shows at www.lizottes.com.au

OCTOBER The Sky Ball With The Gum Ball having been postponed from April 24–26, you'll find it has joined forces to appear alongside Dashville Skyline October 1–5, over the long weekend – renamed The Sky Ball. www.dashville.com.au Lifeline Book Fair October 3–5. Thousands of pre-loved books over three big days.

Newcastle International Half Marathon October 6. www.newcastleihm.com Ross Noble – Humournoid October 9, at Civic Theatre.

Rod Stewart October 24, at Roche Estate.

Jazz in the Vineyards October 31, at Hope Estate.

NOVEMBER James Blunt at A Day on the Green November 21, at Bimbadgen.

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

COMMUNITY HELP STOP THE SPREAD!

CLEAN YOUR HANDS REGULARLY

Live & Cookin’ Lizotte’s is regrettably closed until AT LEAST APRIL 15. Please keep an eye on our Facebook as we monitor the situation. In the meantime, see who else is coming to dinner later in the year...

COVER A COUGH OR SNEEZE

Newcastle Farmers Market is On! AVOID CLOSE CONTACT

STAY HOME IF UNWELL

Symptoms of COVID-19 Symptoms of COVID-19 include fever, cough, runny nose and shortness of breath.

In more severe cases, infection can cause pneumonia with severe acute respiratory distress.

If you feel you have symptoms contact one of the numbers below for more information. It is strongly advised to call first before visiting the hospital, as you may put other people at risk.

COVID CONTACTS NSW Health Updates preview.nsw.gov.au/covid-19 Health Direct Hotline (if showing symptoms) 1800 022 222 National Coronavirus Health Information Line 1800 020 080

Newcastle City Farmers Market is an "essential food market" BUT with extra precautions put in place in the interests of the safety of our stallholders, customers and staff. We are pleased to support our farmers/producers and offer our community a service for essential produce and food supplies, and in doing so taking extra precautions. Be aware that we have enhanced our cleaning schedule and have hand sanitiser on offer throughout the market for your convenience. Little Sprouts Play Centre will also be closed.

Please follow the advice of the signage at the market regarding hygiene and social distancing.

We cannot stress this enough.

We ask that our visitors uphold the advice currently regarding the Covid-19, including: • Practising regular hygiene measures including hand washing and sanitising.

• Practising social distancing of 1.5m as much as possible.

• Limiting conversations with stallholders and other patrons.

• Reusable cups will not be accepted at coffee outlets.

• If you feel unwell, even with cold or mild illness, please stay home!

JUNE SPY V SPY Friday 5 DOUG PARKINSON PRESENTS A CHANGE GONNA COME Saturday 6 FAULTY TOWERS - THE DINING EXPERIENCE Thursday 11 WILD BOYZ THE AUSTRALIAN DURAN DURAN SHOW Friday 12 THE EAGLES SHOW Saturday 13 NO QUARTER THE LED ZEPPELIN EXPERIENCE Wednesday 17 ABBASBACK Friday 19 THE ROCK SHOW OZ EDITION Saturday 20 DIESEL GREATEST HITS + SUNSET SUBURBIA SOLO TOUR Fri 26 + Sat 27 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH THE LEGENDARY KAMAHL Sunday 28

JULY DANIEL CHAMPAGNE Thursday 2 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH WOODSTOCK 20 Sunday 5 KATIE NOONAN LATE NIGHT TUNES WITH NOONS Friday 10 IN TAILS WITH DAVID HOBSON & COLIN LANE Friday 17 THE BLACK SORROWS Sat 25 + Sun 26 STILL GOT THE BLUES THE GARY MOORE EXPERIENCE Friday 31

31 Morehead Street, Lambton Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED

APR 4 CANCELLED · FUTURE DATES TBA

MORE SHOWS added daily.

LIVE SHOWS starting from $65 (including dinner)

BOOK ONLINE NOW

Wednesday’s

+ See who else is coming to dinner...

Follow us for more updates

theolivetreemarket.com.au

lizottes.com.au or PH 4956 2066 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 7

Angela Hardy Photography

What's On COMMUNITY Newcastle Libraries

City of Newcastle (CoN) Library branches are currently closed for the time being. In order to do all we can to further limit the transmission of the virus in our communities, and to prioritise the wellbeing of visitors, staff and volunteers, CoN had already made the decision to temporarily suspend all Library programs and events including talks, exhibition tours, children’s and onsite learning programs until further notice.

Good news – you don't even need to leave the house!

You can still access the e-library from home, including

adult and kids e-books, newspapers, magazines, music and movie streaming services, online learning plus lots more.

The Library mobile app allows you to keep track of your loans, search the catalogue and download on the go, anytime, anywhere. Download the FREE app from the Apple Store or Google Play.

Simply enter your library membership number and pin to get started (join online at the address below).

Find out more information and any updates at www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/ library/home

Hunter Valley Update

Warners Bay Markets

The impact of Covid-19 has hit many local Hunter businesses hard already, with a dramatic loss of events, visitors and customers across the region. Many of our favourite events such as the Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival (27–29 March) and the Lovedale Long Lunch (May 16+17) have been cancelled, with the flow on effect and uncertainty of the impact on local small business at the forefront of our minds.

If you'd like to support our much-loved Hunter vineyards from afar, you can plan a weekend out in advance, buy a voucher for a loved one, and simply keep in touch with them and let them know they aren't forgotten. It's so easy to support locals nowadays – if you can't risk heading to the shops to grab your favourite bottle of wine, why not order from the comfort of your own home and have it delivered?

If you live, work or just love to visit the Hunter Valley, you can assist local vineyards and restaurants by logging onto www.yourhuntervalley.com.au and filling out the pop-up window to subscribe. The guys at Your Hunter Valley will be keeping you posted on ways to support local businesses, from your own living room!

STAY UPDATED via their socials

Saturday, 18th April Date – Cancelled Operating on the 3rd Saturday of each month from 8am to 2pm on the beautiful Warners Bay Foreshore, Warners Bay Markets offer a large selection of fashion, gifts, homewares, arts and crafts, jewellery, skincare, pet accessories, local produce, gourmet delights, fresh flowers, live entertainment and plenty more to tempt you! It's a great day out for the whole family – including your fur-baby (responsible owners only). Pop in and stroll around - find something different and unique, pick up some fresh local produce, enjoy a coffee or a bite from one of the street eat vans and then take home some fresh baked goodies. Don't forget to check out the many wonderful local businesses while you are in Warners Bay. Next Markets: Resuming as soon as possible. Keep Updated on Facebook and Instagram – @WarnersBayMarkets

The Ultimate Winery Tour!

Immerse yourself in the history of one of Australia’s most iconic wineries – McGuigan Wines. Take an in-depth guided tour of the working winery, hosted by a member of the talented cellar door team. To complete your McGuigan experience, taste a selection of awardwinning wines from their exclusive cellar door collection. These tours leave daily at midday. Fully enclosed shoes must be worn, no children under 16. Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on experiences for more information.

Ultimate

Beginner Classes Every Tuesday 7pm, $15 per lesson.

Casual or Regular attendance welcome!

Autumn Idea!

Adults of any age group can practise t'ai chi and experience the well-known benefits in a short period of time.

Contact Paul on 0430 302 165 Located at Adamstown Senior Citizens Hall, 153A Brunker Rd, Adamstown

Come to the Co-op for all your Easter Seafood!

Visit our facebook o r website fo r all Easter hou rs!

For all your Australian, sustainably caught, fresh local seafood needs, you wouldn't go anywhere else, other than the Fishermen’s Co-Op!

SWANSEA - 69 Lakeside Drive, Ph 4971 4762 • OPEN Tues - Fri 8.30am to 4pm + Sat 8.30am to 1pm

Car Parking now timed for your convenience.

WICKHAM - 97 Hannell Street, Ph 4965 4229 • OPEN Mon - Fri 8.30am to 5pm, Sat 8.30am to 3pm, Sun 10am to 2pm • www.fishcoop.com.au 8 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

BUY ME

Community Update from Lake Mac Libraries In-response to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we have made the decision to close all of our branches until further notice. However, we are pleased to confirm a number of new initiatives that allow our members access to some core library services during this time.

Click and Collect A fast-track, no-fuss way to reserve titles from our vast collection of over 95,000 items. Reservations can be made online or via our new app 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you cannot access the website or app, members can call Lake Mac Libraries 10am – 2pm Monday to Friday on 4921 0493, or email lakelibraries@lakemac.nsw.gov. au. Pick-up is within 5 working days to the branch location closest to you (choose from Charlestown, Swansea, Toronto or Speers Point).

Click and Collect pick-up from Charlestown and Speers Point on Wednesdays 11am–1pm; and Swansea and Toronto on Thursdays 11am–1pm.

Book Takeaway A unique and five-star service to members of our community that are unable to access the Click and Collect service, have limited mobility, accessibility issues or are in quarantine. Similar to our home library service, make reservations online or via our new app. As with Click and Collect, if you are having access issues, call or email Lake Mac Libraries instead. Based on assessment and availability, your chosen books will be picked by our team and delivered to your door within a fortnightly rotation.

Continued Library Services • Digital Storytime sessions • E-books, e-magazines, comics and music streaming via our digital platforms, accessed via our new libraries app and website • Green waste bags will be available during Click and Collect opening times • Return your books at any Lake Mac Libraries branch using the return chute

Sending out an SOS for our beloved performers AUSTRALIA (Friday 20 March 2020) - The hardworking people who provide the soundtrack to Australian life need your help, right now.

Sound Of Silence (SOS) is a national initiative from a Music Industry Taskforce* that represent our diverse music industry to bring immediate relief for an industry at the existential brink.

Through a raft of targeted activity, we hope to alleviate the severe haemorrhaging of income that has come with widespread cancellations of festivals, concerts, shows and local gigs.

The music industry and those at its peripheries cannot survive without an alternative source of revenue that has disappeared along with live shows, a figure that has literally gone from 100 to zero in a matter of days.

The workers in our industry live from gig to gig. Shows are their lifeblood, and it will take more than the containment of COVID19 to return them to economic stability. The ramifications are far-reaching and seriously long-term.

The music industry has historically banded together to donate time and money to those in need, as seen recently with bushfire relief efforts. In

essence, it is always there to lend a helping hand.

Now it needs the Australian music-loving public to do the same.

This is a real and present crisis, and this is a genuine SOS. If we don’t act now, the soundtrack to Aussie life will stop, and all we will hear is the sound of silence.

SENDING OUT AN SOS – THIS IS HOW TO HELP • Visit www.thesoundofsilence.com.au and if you are in a financial position to do so, please donate to Support Act – which is a music charity that provides crisis relief services to artists, roadies and music workers who are directly affected during this time.

• In the absence of touring, merchandise is the most instant investment you can make into any artists career. You can support by visiting any number of the artists' stores directly through the store links on the SOS online superstore. Or create an equally lasting connection by purchasing the Sound Of Silence special custom tee designed by Jack Irvine (Billie Eilish, Skeggs) with all proceeds going to Support Act.

NO DOGS

• Newcastle City Farmers Market •

Please check our websites for details

• www.nswfarmersmarket.com.au • • www.newcastlecityfarmersmarket.com.au • NSW Farmers Market Pty Ltd, P.O Box 152 MORPETH, NSW 2321

E: finefoodmarket@bigpond.com M : 0427 586 079

* Each Sunday at Broadmeadow SHOWGROUND Griffiths Road entry please

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 9

Virgo 23 August – 22 September Mix a little determination with a lot of ambition, and you get a recipe for success. Saturn, the planet of hard work and transformation, occupies your work sector for two years - bringing empowering changes in your career and personal life. It’s time to discard emotional or professional deadwood. At times this may be easier said than done but truth be told - you can’t go back now, and why would you? Look to the future.

Lake Mac Libraries branches are currently closed, but we are working hard behind the scenes to bring you

the books and services you love

Astrologer TANYA OBREZA on what’s in the stars in April.

STAR OF THE MONTH Aries 21 March – 20 April The Aries dream is still on schedule, but it’s not a year for short cuts. Over the next 12 months, life will run more like a marathon – so keep those trainers laced. To help, you have a mighty planetary task team onside, including generous Jupiter cheering on professional triumphs.

Soon enough, emotional maturity and honed skills let you carve your name in any trophy you choose. With carnal desires also running free, business contacts can just as willingly become romantic ties. Singles play the field, duos revive experimental play. But regardless of romantic status, this year you could meet a gifted individual who pushes you into the public eye.

A growing wanderlust might also be satiated by travel.

Taurus 21 April – 20 May By now, you may realise that Saturn is causing havoc. Whereas other zodiac signs can expect much emotional turbulence, for you Saturn’s prime concern is your work. This will trigger changes in your job this year or a significant alteration in life direction. From here on in, work must offer freedom. Technology or the media play a large part. Sure, there’ll be moments of trepidation, but success beckons.

Click and Collect

available once per week at Charlestown, Speers Point, Swansea and Toronto Libraries

Home delivery

fortnightly service available for eligible members

Extended Wi-Fi

available outside all branches

For more information, please visit library.lakemac.com.au or call 4921 0493

10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Gemini 21 May – 21 June In late March, task-master Saturn exited your sector of karmic debts and moved into your sector of travel and expansion. So, yes, you have Gemini – you can finally exhale a mighty sigh of relief! The past has been dealt with, so you can once again live in the present. After nearly two years of frustration, you can expect the world to co-operate with you - and it will. Romance also offers more excitement. A sexier new you emerges.

Cancer 22 June – 22 July With sobering Saturn settled in your sector of sexuality, it seems you have another year of perplexing passions ahead. First instincts send you scurrying under the safety of your doona. Alone. But there’s good news too. After June, expect a surprise when you attract someone different from your usual peer group. Singles attract suitors who help them financially, while couples rekindle passions.

Leo 23 July – 22 August Now that Saturn has stuck his toes over that 7th House horizon, relationships rule. It’s a time when you must substitute the "me" for "we". And while this doesn't mean that you have to sacrifice your own identity, dealing with others will call for greater responsibility. Singles may marry, or form a relationship with an older, or mature individual – very likely, karmic in nature. The great news? The promise of a love that lasts.

Libra 23 September – 22 October Saturn assigns you a new life direction, so now’s the time to clear away any emotional debris. Let common sense set the pace, and don’t be hurried by others’ hysteria. You’ll have a growing awareness of your own desires. This should be made clear to anyone who tries to steer you away from them. For some, past romantic sparks may be reignited, but this time with more intensity and fervour. Let your heart lead the way.

Scorpio 23 October – 21 November With Saturn improving communication skills, you’re granted a gentler and kinder year. Of course, there will always be challenging issues to face, but you’ll meet them with greater confidence. Work takes a back seat in July, making more room for love. One individual, in particular, feels like a soul mate. But should you be disappointed with your current domestic situation, expect change. Best news: a little extravagance is likely.

Sagittarius 22 November – December 21 For the next two years, Saturn makes demands - and lots of them.

This long term focus falls on communications and mental agility.

It’s a time when you expand your intellect and reach out for new experiences. You become ready to make radical moves. Sagittarians also come to feel more comfortable with who they are and their chosen lifestyle. Just don't assume you know it all. After all, life is a constant journey.

Capricorn 22 December – January 19 For years, Saturn has made your life hell with its orders to wait pulsing through your mind. Still, you’ve weathered it well and finally, the confusion starts to lift. Likewise, if love feels like a distant destination, expect much closer contact. So go ahead Capricorn – have more fun, but also ask what you really want from relationships.

And don't count too much on others for material backing. For the next two years, financial independence is a must.

Aquarius 20 January – 18 February Saturn, the disciplinarian of the zodiac, sets up camp in your own sign for 20 months. It’s a period when old patterns are broken, and new friendships and interests are developed. Many outworn habits have to go, including things and people. But don’t worry if you make a mistake or two – the soul actually benefits from the odd red-faced moment. Every move, whether it’s upward or wayward, makes you a more complete person.

Pisces 19 February – 20 March Saturn moves into your sector of inner feelings and subconscious.

For other zodiac signs, this would feel like a mere ripple, but supersensitive Pisceans can expect soul-stirring emotional tsunamis.

Feelings are more raw and exposed and, at times, any repressed emotions will unexpectedly resurface. But it’s not all bad – strangely, you may take pleasure in this new feeling of “aliveness”. You grow bolder and more aware.

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.

E C I T O N R E H T R U F IL

T N U D E S CLO

Skate as long as you like during our Super Sessions Monday to Friday

$15 for kids under 6 $20 for 6 and over

Family packages also available

Relax in our cafe while the kids skate!

Friday night and Weekend sessions also available!

See hiss.com.au for full session times

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR RE-OPENING DATES! www.hiss.com.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 11

Tommy Little:

The Show Will Go On

12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Not a bad effort for someone who describes himself as a comedian by default.

“The reason that I’m doing comedy is that I’m not qualified to do any other job,” he says with a typical self-depreciating laugh.

“I think I just failed at everything else. I wanted to do serious acting, and that was just a pathetic attempt at a career.

“But when I was doing acting I met a comedian, and I was like, ‘I've thought about doing stand-up' and he hooked me up with a gig.

“And I just fell in love with it, and just did it flat out from then on. It’s all I’ll ever do, so this corona thing better clear up, or I'm absolutely f**ked... as we all are I guess,” he adds with a laugh.

“When there are people dying and I’m worried that I can't tell my dick jokes on stage... I'd better check my priorities.”

Of course Little isn’t making light of the Coronavirus.

“I don't have any rules, but I just try and use my heart as a guide,” he said.

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

Comedian Tommy Little was a few weeks into what was going to be his biggest national tour to date when Australia’s Coronavirus lockdowns began in earnest.

It was a sobering reality at what should have been one of the funniest and most full-on times in his life.

But while the COVID-19 pandemic is certainly nothing to laugh about, Little says it doesn’t mean this isn’t the right time to inject a little humour into our everyday lives.

“I think the oxymoronic part about this is that it's probably when we need comedy the most, and yet, we're not allowed to get together to do it,” he said.

“Obviously when people are going through hardships you need to be careful about what you are joking about.

“But in general at the moment, if you turn on the news and you turn on the radio it is wall-to-wall coronavirus and doom and gloom. And so I think now is absolutely the time to have a laugh.

“I got a message last night after The Project from a few people just saying 'Hey, I’ve had the sh*ttiest time, I'm going to lose my job, and I haven't laughed in a week, but tonight you made me laugh so much. Thank you.’

“Sometimes people have got a lot going on in their lives, and it’s nice for them just to forget it, even if it's just for a couple of seconds.”

As one of Australia’s most popular and prolific comedians right now, Little certainly knows a thing or two about generating laughs.

His current tour, I’ll See Myself Out, began with the 35-year-old adding a host of additional gigs to his first scheduled stop in Adelaide to cope with demand, before the coronavirus forced him to press pause on his upcoming dates.

“It was an awesome start to the tour,” Little said.

“Every show was full, and I was putting on extra shows most nights, it was great.

“From a very selfish and personal point of view, this is the biggest tour that I've done, and it started off with a bang. I really loved the show; it was feeling like it was all kind of building in exactly the right places and then someone’s just come and kicked the wheels out from under it.

“The main disappointment for me is I want to do the show.

I'm really proud and want people to come out and have a laugh.

“But I also have other jobs, so I can survive (the tour being postponed). I feel bad for the poor casual staff that are working in these venues and comedy festivals. They don't necessarily have other jobs that they can slide into. It’s tough times.”

Little’s “other jobs” include his duties as a regular co-host and correspondent for primetime nightly news and comedy program The Project on Network Ten, and the national radio show he delivers every weekday with Carrie Bickmore on the Australian Hit Network.

For the last few years, Little has also been the host of the Just for Laughs stand-up series from the Sydney Opera House, filmed for the Comedy Channel in Australia.

It was only, what, a few weeks ago that this [pandemic] seemed a distant, distant thing and everybody was kind of joking about it and making light about it, me included, and I feel like it’s changed so quickly.

And now, particularly when I can firsthand see people without work who are going to be facing a really sh*t time, you just use your emotions a bit to guide what you do and don't want to say.”

Having said that, Little does admit that he generally has a bit of a different view to most on what is and isn’t acceptable.

“Shocking people is funny, but also my yardstick for what I think is okay to say is way out,” he said.

“I asked Carrie's mum on air the other day if she'd rooted (singer and TV personality) Mark Holden and Carrie thought that was the most outrageous question.

“But it didn't even cross my mind as being outrageous because we were talking about him, and that's what I would ask any of my friends, and so I just asked it.

“I find the whole basis for measurement is all out of whack.

Like on The Project I can't say the word f**k because they’re worried about kids seeing it, but then there is a news story about someone being raped and murdered.

“If we want kids not to see one of them, for me, saying f**k is a very trivial thing but showing a tragic loss of life or a crime committed against another human is much more traumatic. I understand that there's a role for the news to play in educating young people, but I don't understand why one of those things is allowed, and the other isn't.”

Nothing is off-limits at a Tommy Little live show either – his real-life antics and setbacks are foolish, funny as hell and, he admits, definitely his own fault.

He brings his tales to life with effortless charisma, high energy and a cheeky yet intimate connection with his audiences.

(Continued next page) ⊲ www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 13

you grow up watching it, chances are that if you then get into it, you work with all those people because there's just not many of us.”

Little’s career has now spanned more than a decade, with countless solo shows, tours and appearances at every major comedy festival in Australia including the prestigious Melbourne International Comedy Festival, which he named as his personal highlight so far.

His quick-witted personality has also seen him gain a following as the host of a variety of television and radio shows. But while Little said he appreciates the camaraderie of being involved in those projects, the stage is where his heart remains.

“I love doing stand-up and to be honest, I have an inverse reaction to what most people have with it, in that it's my most relaxing time of the day,” he said.

Everything else just stops. It's really nice and soothing up on stage, you're in darkness, there's silence in your joke and then that feeling of having a crowd kind of erupt in laughter, it's just great.

(Continued) Little said his newest show, I’ll See Myself Out, will once again see him mine the comedy of his own life for the benefit of the audience.

“It's pretty strangely the opposite of what a lot of (comedy) shows are at the moment, which is where they talk about world issues and Trump and of course, corona,” he said.

“I'm an escape from all that shit, it’s just a show full of stories and a lot of them this year are you laughing at me, rather than with me.

“I think people are uncomfortable to say that, but that's exactly what it is and I'm okay with that – as long as you guys are having a good time I don’t give a sh*t if I come out with my dignity intact or not.

“There are a lot of comics who won't do any of that and will look to the news around them, but I just stuff up too much to not talk about it.

“And also I don't have any words of wisdom, I’m not going to teach anybody anything about the world, so I'd rather just tell you about the time that I accidentally Facetimed a girl on the toilet, things like that.

“It makes me laugh, and hopefully it makes the audience laugh too because either they’ve done it before or they haven't, and they can't imagine anyone would ever do it.”

While Little may not have set out to become a comedian originally, he grew up appreciating those who had mastered the art of telling a funny story.

14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

“Richard Pryor is probably my favourite comedian,” he said.

“The way he tells stories and things just kind of blew my mind when I was young and saw it for the first time.

“I didn't know that was a thing that you could do. I assumed when I first heard him start talking that a band was going to come out or he was telling everybody to sit down before the act, and then I just laughed myself silly for an hour.

“And he was saying the most outlandish sh*t too, I remember watching him as a kid and he was talking about shooting the tyres out on his car and talking about drugs and then also doing the most gorgeous impressions of a dog that lives next door.

“It was like watching a man act out a whole movie, and I was like, 'Oh, wow, this is a whole world that I didn't know existed'.”

Of course, many of Little’s comedic inspirations are far closer to home, which means that those comedians he once appreciated as an audience member are now among those he counts as friends and workmates.

“Kind of everyone that I grew up watching I now get the pleasure of working with, people like Judith Lucy, Denise Scott, Hughesy (Dave Hughes), Will Anderson,” he said.

“These were all comics that I grew up watching, and absolutely loved, and now I get to chat to Hughesy every day on the radio, I recently did a tour with Denise Scott… it’s a very small community so generally if you're into comedy, and

“I don't know if my relationship with it is healthy, I think it is probably closer to an addiction, but that's fine.

“Stand-up's soul food, stand-up is the thing I love most, and I can't imagine that ever changing.

“But it's also quite isolating and lonely so it's great to be part of a TV team and a radio team because I still love creating things, but I can do it with other people as well, and that's great.

“I love making my friends laugh when we're out, or trying to, and in the same way, I love trying to make my co-hosts laugh when we're working together. It all comes under the basic umbrella of a desperate plea for attention.

“To be honest if it wasn’t for this virus I’m at a very happy place. I've got a radio show with one of my best friends, I love working on The Project, and then I get to go out at night and tour the country and do the thing that I love most.”

While his national tour may be on hold for now, Little clearly has plenty of other avenues through which he can secure audiences’ attentions.

In coming months his 2019 solo show, Self-Diagnosed Genius, will be available for streaming in more than 200 countries and territories around the world including Australia as part of 10 Amazon Original stand-up specials filmed exclusively for Amazon Prime Video.

Produced by Guesswork Television and filmed in Melbourne at the Malthouse Theatre, the specials feature an impressive roster of award-winning and nominated Australian comedians including Little, Lano & Woodley, Zoë Coombs Marr, Judith Lucy, Anne Edmonds, Tom Walker, Celia Pacquola, Dilruk Jayasinha, Alice Fraser and Tom Gleeson.

The shows will kick off on April 10, with two specials being released each week over a five-week period.

Details of Little’s national tour, which was scheduled to arrive in Newcastle’s Civic Theatre on May 1, will continue to be updated. Visit www.tommylittle.com.au or www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au for new dates and updates.

The Australian entertainment industry: • 15% of workers have moderate to severe depression (5 times the national average).

• 44% of workers have moderate to severe anxiety symptoms.

• 65% of workers live below the average wage and there are five suicide attempts every week and we have all been to way too many funerals.

Suspended in Time WORDS MELINDA MURRAY - Psm Publicity

For the last 25 years, I have worked in media and entertainment. I have stood at meet-and-greets with people as they cry when they meet their favourite artists. They share stories of how the music they created got them through a tough time in their life. How one of their songs was played at a wedding or a funeral. How the show they went to back in 1992 was the best night of their lives. I have watched from side-of-stage as musical theatre brings thousands of people to their feet as they sing the show stopper. I have watched as plays made the audience laugh, cry and think about the subject matter differently.

I have seen pure joy and happiness brought to you by the creative mind, the talented soul and last month I watched their collective hearts break into a million little pieces as they were told they were disposable. As the horrible reality of the virus began to take its toll, festival after festival and show after show has been cancelled. I saw people who had planned to attend talking online about how disappointed they were and when they would get a refund. My mind went straight to the artists, the sound techs, the road crew, the publicists, the lighting guys the stage crew, the event staff

and the food vans. Unlike a regular 9 to 5 job, you can spend months promoting a gig, paying for marketing and none of those people gets paid until the gig happens. What do you do when months-worth of work now amounts to nothing? What do you do when every gig you have booked for the next six months goes away?

No one is complaining. Everyone is keen to do what they can for the collective good of the nation. It’s worth mentioning, however, that even before this crisis hit, this industry already had the following statistics...

The creative mind that can deliver a performance with such passion can also feel the lows very profoundly. The unpredictability of a paycheck and the rejection. Pouring everything you have into an album and people don’t buy it or a stage performance and people don’t buy tickets to see it.

That can be soul-destroying and that’s a regular day for those who create the art you love.

It’s the time you would normally get together with friends to comfort each other and create something beautiful from the pain and the uncertainty, but we are unable to do that.

Thousands of people all suspended in time, waiting for the moment when their skill becomes useful again. When the thing they do that others can’t can once again, pay the bill.

With my social feed filled with messages from friends in the industry full of heartbreak and desperation, it would be easy to be enveloped by the darkness. I will instead reach out to friends I think are in trouble. I will fill my social channels full of music and promotion of shows that have already rescheduled dates into the future.

There is a joke that Aaron Sorkin once included in the dialogue on the West Wing…

"This guy's walking down the street when he falls in a hole.

The walls are so steep he can't get out.

"A doctor passes by, and the guy shouts up, 'Hey you. Can you help me out?' The doctor writes a prescription, throws it down in the hole and moves on.

"Then a priest comes along, and the guy shouts up, 'Father, I'm down in this hole can you help me out?' The priest writes out a prayer, throws it down in the hole and moves on "Then a friend walks by, 'Hey, Joe, it's me, can you help me out?' And the friend jumps in the hole. Our guy says, 'Are you stupid? Now we're both down here.' The friend says, 'Yeah, but I've been down here before and I know the way out.'"

None of us have been down this particular hole, but we are all down here and we’ll find our way out together.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

NGS

Shines a Spotlight on Sporting Achievements

Newcastle Grammar School is putting the spotlight on sport, with the launch of a new sporting framework and an innovative program to support talented and elite student-athletes.

NGS Director of Sport Mr Daniel Kozey said the new Sporting Framework would ensure all students from Kindergarten to Year 12 have the opportunity to participate and excel in sport, to whatever level best suits them.

The Framework aims to help students achieve three key outcomes: active lifestyle, sports participation and sporting excellence.

It outlines steps on the sporting development pathway from Foundation level, such as fundamental movement skills, to Talent, Elite and Mastery levels, in which an athlete achieves sustained sporting success.

The Framework goes hand-in-hand with the new Supporting Athlete Programme (SAP), which has been established to mentor and support the School’s talented and elite athletes.

Mr Kozey said the programme is designed as a flexible structure, with all major facets of a young student-athlete in mind: “To ensure synergy between athletic pursuits and academic success, our selected athletes will be supported by academic staff, external wellbeing providers, 16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

professional athletes and local businesses invested in assisting emerging athletes,” he said.

“It will be a dynamic support network, which can be shaped to suit the individual athlete.”

The SAP aims to bridge the gap to provide any support the students need – whether that is athletically or academically.

“For example, many gifted athletes spend a lot of time training, so they may need additional support with their academic work,” he said.

Students in the Supporting Athletes Programme will receive access to academic assistance as part of their weekly schedule, as well as attending quarterly workshops to educate them on areas ranging from nutrition to social media, time management and competition preparation.

NGS has engaged local Support Partners to provide services including dietitian, physiotherapy, chiropractic, sportswear, pharmacy, gym, and sports psychology services as part of the program.

And some impressive athletes have signed up to mentor SAP students and support them in achieving success across a wide range of sports.

Mentors include Giants Netball player Sam Poolman, AFLW GWS Giants midfielder Nicola Barr and two NGS graduates – swimming champion Ryan Walker and triathlete Lorcan Redmond.

“This new approach will provide a web of support for everyone involved in sport at Newcastle Grammar School, with a particular focus on our talented and emerging athletes,” Mr Kozey said.

Local primary school students are choosing courage Newcastle Grammar School Primary School students have embarked on the year with a new mission: to ‘choose courage’ for a kinder and braver world.

The theme, which is being adopted across Kindergarten to Year 6, is part of the School’s ongoing Positive Education programme, which aims to enhance the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of every student.

Head of Primary, Mrs Alicha Dyer, says the theme of ‘choosing courage’ is based on psychological research that shows children develop resilience and thrive when they understand and can draw on their own personal strength of courage.

But students don’t need to climb a mountain or take on an amazing physical feat to demonstrate courage, she says.

Rather, in dedicated lessons each week as well as throughout other school activities, they are learning how and why they can choose courage in their everyday lives.

“There are many ways that people can choose courage – and it means something different for everybody,” Mrs Dyer says.

“That might mean facing a fear or obstacle, being true to yourself and others, persisting with a challenge, standing up and speaking out for what’s fair, stepping outside your comfort zone or bouncing back after adversity.”

Students will learn about a cycle of courage that starts with believing that they can do something, then learning how, followed by acting on their belief, then inspiring others to choose courage – ultimately leading to a kinder, braver world.

Already, the young NGS students are identifying their own hopes and goals for the year ahead and thinking about how they need to choose courage to achieve them.

They will also explore courageous characters in literature and will survey their parents, teachers and others about times they’ve had to choose courage in their lives.

“Students as young as kindergarten can learn these concepts, and we are already seeing courage on display across the Primary School,” Mrs Dyer says.

“Whether it has been choosing courage to start a new school year, forming new friendships, being a courageous leader or challenging themselves at our recent swimming carnival, we are thrilled to see our students embracing this year’s theme.”

Sort & Save at Summerhill save money

save time

save the environment

Newcastle residents can now drop off the following free of charge at Summerhill Waste Management Centre if you sort your load before you go!

PAPER & CARDBOARD

SCRAP METAL

UNTREATED WOOD

Clean cardboard only.

No waxed cardboard.

No packaging material (e.g. polystyrene, plastic strapping/ wrapping or excessive tape).

Including BBQs, bikes, car parts. Fees apply for fridges, freezers and air-conditioners.

Clean wood only.

No painted, varnished or engineered timber (e.g. particleboard, plywood, MDF).

SOFT PLASTICS

E-WASTE

RECYCLABLE CONTAINERS

Including clean plastic bags, packaging, mail satchels and bubble wrap. No food waste, strapping or tape.

Electrical waste items such as small appliances, computers, tvs and electric tools.

Glass bottles and jars, aluminium and steel cans, plastic bottles and containers.

Sorting means separating items into like groups in your car, ute or trailer, rather than having them mixed together (e.g. putting scrap metal in a separate pile to cardboard). Terms and conditions: Service for Newcastle residents only, proof of residency required. Residents must sort their items prior to arrival to drop-off for free.

Normal fees apply for mixed waste loads and waste items not listed above. Maximum of 10 items of e-waste per visit. Customers must wear closed shoes.

For full service details, phone 4974 2000 or visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/sort-and-save www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

Write Yourself a Masterpiece in Social Isolation

Well... What Do I Do Now? WORDS CHLOE O'SULLIVAN

Suddenly stuck in your house with no formal education training and having to teach your child. OMG… me too! At the start of the coronavirus story being on the news who would have thought this is where we would be. Millions of people unemployed, the places you would typically go to socialise and relax are closed for business and even though schools are still open, you are too scared to send your kid.

I have always had so much respect for my child’s teachers, mostly because I know they do a job I am in no way qualified to do. We are fortunate to be in a very small school and have been so lucky with the teaching staff we ended up with. We actually made the final decision on the school after I met the Kindergarten teacher at orientation and fell in love with her. She just oozed passion, enthusiasm and I had complete confidence that she would be the person who would make my child fall in love with school, and she did. The thought that little old me who has been working full-time since I was 14 would need to take over educational duties is terrifying. So much so that when this was looking like it would need to be a reality, I could actually hear the theme from Jaws playing in my head Reading all the chatter on social media from people all over the country complaining about their school not giving them information about what you should be doing at home with your kids, and having done this for some weeks now, I thought I would share a few ideas.

Educating your kids at home Firstly give yourself and the kids a break.

You are not going to do everything perfectly.

Your kid is going to snap at you the way they wouldn’t snap at a teacher because they can. You’re all in close quarters with 18 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

limited or no outside stimulation for maybe the first time ever. Yes, get them to do some of the work sent home by the school but let them blow off some steam too.

There are also so many great pages popping up with lots of educational resources you can access at home. One thing I found really helpful with mine (as she was in the right age group) was to actually get her to sit a practice NAPLAN test on the first day or so. Not because I cared about the score but because it showed me the concepts that we might need to work on.

Social schooling You need to stay connected with your friends but so do they. Set up some Zoom playdates so they can chat on screen and be silly. This week we were on facetime with a friend in Victoria we both had a deck of cards and played poker as part of a maths lesson, and they had a ball. I got them to watch a video about deforestation and palm oil and then they made a poster about how to protect the animals. Just keep them engaged.

Your school They had no notice that something like this was coming. They work for the department of education, and they can’t give you information that they don’t have. This is an ever-changing situation and they are doing their best to catch up. While the rest of us are isolating where possible to keep our family safe, our teachers continue to show up, putting themselves and their families at risk. They are there for the families who have no choice but to keep sending kids to school. Health care professionals, those employed in the school supply chain - they too have families they are worried about and worried about how they will pay their bills. Just remember that before you say unkind things to them (or about them). This also goes for people in supermarkets and other service areas. The rule “Don’t be a wanker” should just apply across the board.

Happy learning!

If you find yourself in isolation because of COVID-19, it could be the ideal time to write the novel you’ve always dreamed of creating according to New York Times best-selling science fiction author and Flinders University creative writing lecturer, Dr Sean Williams.

Dr Williams offers these simple tips on How to Write a Bestseller (based on the 10.5 Commandments of Writing), noting that finding ample time to embark on such a big project doesn’t present itself very often.

“These are simple but powerful steps that every writer should take, and while they won’t guarantee success, they will certainly help you along your way to completing a novel,” says Dr Williams.

1. Do you really want to do this? No amount of advice will work unless you do. Writing is hard and writing something that sells is even harder. You’ll go through ups and downs along the way.

Wanting to complete this task will get you through the downs.

2. It’s great that you want to be a writer, but have you read anything?

Anything recent? Anything outside your comfort zone? All great works begin with understanding the form, and if you don’t have that, you’re in real trouble. You gain an artist’s understanding by reading widely and being a discerning reader.

3. A lot of readers want to be writers (and some non-readers too; see above) and generally know what kind of story they’d like to write – so go ahead and do exactly that. If you write with passion about your subject, readers are more likely to respond positively. Write with cynicism or even disdain and readers won’t like it.

4. Write what you love, but if you want it to sell, be aware of the commercial marketplace. It’s not about what’s selling in stores right now - that information will be old news by the time your manuscript lands on an editor’s desk – but it makes good sense to avoid genres that seem over-saturated. The rest is guesswork, although you should remember that writers don’t have just one book in them: they have many. The trick is to pick the right one for publication at the right time.

5. Everything so far sounds pretty daunting, which is why you need a hefty

dose of courage to keep going. Anyone can sit down and write, but your aim is to write a bestseller. Therefore, be brilliant.

Be bold. Be brave.

6. For some writers, the most bravery is required to emerge from your writing cave (metaphorically, if not literally) and meet people who already work in the publishing industry. This is how you learn what’s going on in the market and obtain necessary encouragement. Reach out and engage with these people by asking them questions. Their enthusiasm and advice could help you get over the finishing line.

7. When you find experienced people, listen to what they tell you. Even if their advice is harsh, be respectful of what they tell you. Act like a professional, even if you’re not one yet. Therefore, don’t lie, steal, cheat, grandstand or belittle in your work or your correspondence. You want people to remember you and your writing for the right reasons.

8. If you make it this far through the checklist, it’s time to devote your energy to write and finish the book. There are a thousand different ways to achieve this, but you’ll only discover what works best for you by getting your hands onto the keyboard and start typing. Try a few different timetables and methods until you find something that works well for you, and then keep exploring ways to make that method even better. Most importantly, work hard. The more you write, the stronger your work becomes: that’s how you know you’re doing it right.

9. Send your book out into the world. There’s no way of avoiding this confronting moment if you want it to sell.

Yet again, you’re going to need to be brave.

10. And finally, start writing the next book. After all – we don’t know how long lockdown is going to last!

Dr Sean Williams’ book Impossible Music has been shortlisted for the Ethel Turner Award as part of the 2020 NSW Premier’s Literary Awards. This prize is for a work of fiction, non-fiction or poetry written for young people of secondary school level. Find out more at www.sl.nsw.gov.au/awards/ethel-turnerprize-young-peoples-literature

Zoo; elephants at Tembe Elephant Park (keep your eyes out for impala, leopards and warthogs too); Koala cuddle trains at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary; and Beluga whales at Georgia Aquarium – we're sure there's probably more if you look.

Go to Hogwarts. This virtual Harry Potter escape room is thanks to the muggles at Peters Township Public Library (in McMurray, Pennsylvania). It's your first year at Hogwarts – watch clips from HP movies, answer questions, visit Gringotts, figure out how to do different spells and much, more. Best of all, it's free and you can go on this magical adventure on your own or with friends. Simply search it on google to find it (the web address is a little long to list here).

WAYS TO

Keep Calm

DURING THE MADNESS If you're feeling a little overwhelmed, that's ok – you're not alone! Take a look at the list below for a distraction, something to calm the mind, or just something outright not Covid-19 related!

A botanical garden in Seattle, USA is doing daily livestreams of their calming greenhouses every day. The Volunteer Park Conservatory is currently closed – however they are offering up some soothing daily live streams (via Instagram) of their amazing gardens. The glasshouse itself was built in 1912, has five different temperate zones and has hundreds of different plant varieties. The time of the live stream is generally at about 2pm, 7 days a week, but also depends on the gardeners maintenance. Find them on Instagram – @vpconservatory.

Give the right side of your brain a workout. Working the creative side of your brain can transform daily life as you know it, helping relationships, your mental state, your work and more. The Right-brain Workout is written/created by Russel Howcroft Alex Wadelton (2019) and includes 70 questions posed by some of Australia’s most creative personalities from comedy, art, advertising, music, literature and photography. The questions will probe and challenge you to be more creative, every day. It's an exercise regime for your brain! If clay was discovered to be a new superfood, what would it be renamed for consumers? Only you have the answer. Find it online through any good book store.

Go to the zoo. If you haven't heard already, zoo's from around the world have started live streaming their animals. There's a penguin party happening at Edinburgh Zoo; baby snow leopards at Melbourne Zoo; Pandas at Washington's National

Tonight Show: At Home Edition. Jimmy Fallon has taken it upon himself to create his iconic comedy show from home – featuring camera work by his wife and the occasional segment with his two daughters which you'll find on YouTube. He also kicked off the hilarious social media trend: #MyQuarantineInSixWords with “Fine. You can paint daddy’s nails” – find the thread on Twitter for a good laugh!

Get Oversubscribed. Local women Alana Dagwell and Laura Jackel are up to season 3 of Oversubscribed, a podcast for women hell-bent on squeezing the most out of life. Find episodes on wellbeing, juggling kids and work, the rocky road of motherhood and loads more. Find it on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Travel from your living room. It sucks not being able to travel right now, but the good news is you can keep inspired with tv shows and documentaries! Here are a few to keep you occupied (for a while anyway): Street Food (Netflix) – All about the food! This show takes you to the streets of places around the world, introducing you to some of the most flavourful dishes available.

The Wine Show (iTunes, Amazon) – What better time to top up on your wine knowledge? Across two series, actors Matthew Goode and Matthew Rhys team up to explore the world of wine. Maybe a tasting is in order?

Dark Tourist (Netflix) – Get ready to be taken across the globe and see the dark side of tourism. From haunted forests, to a nuclear lake and even real-life vampires – this enjoyable and sometimes comical series hosted by Kiwi filmmaker and journalist David Farrier is one to watch.

Pedal the World (Netflix) – Over the course of one (Continued next page) F

AUTHENTIC | STRATEGIC | DEPENDABLE

Business and Commercial Law • Property Law Employment Law • Estate Planning and Probate Public Notary • Not-For-Profit Law

www.jenkinslegal.com.au | PH 4929 2000 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19

El Capitan, Yosemite National Park

Get appy. Did you know both Newcastle Libraries and Lake Mac Libraries have apps you can download on your phone or tablet? Download them and register to have access to loads of kids activities, e-books and magazines, listen to audiobooks, learn a new language, watch movies and loads more. Find the Lake Mac Libraries and Newcastle Libraries apps via the App Store (IOS) and the Google Play Store (Android).

Travel Man (SBS On Demand) – The IT Crowd's Richard Ayoade teams up with a different celebrity each episode to explore destinations such as Iceland, Marrakech and Istanbul with the likes of Paul Rudd, Adam Hills, Jon Hamm and Rebel Wilson.

Take a virtual gallery tour. It's time to get cultured! Some of the best galleries in the world have incredibly detailed online tours. Nobody can visit The Louvre in Paris right now – but you can explore the world-famous landmark from your lounge room. You can also explore the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York, The British Museum, the Great Wall of China, and even The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

(Continued)

Revel in kindness (and be inspired). Random acts of kindness are more important than ever at the moment.

When we hear how a small act of generosity has made someone's day, we are reminded that humanity ain't all bad.

Visit www.kindnessfactory.com or The Kindness Pandemic on Facebook if you're in need of a (good) cry. Don't forget – kindness is free!

Virtual happy hour. Don't let the social distancing take away the social part – why not have a virtual party! All you need is for everyone to have a device (phone/ipad/laptop), and all be using the same application to get online. If everyone has Apple you can use Facetime, if not some alternatives include Skype, Houseparty and Facebook.

memorable and adventure-filled year, German Felix Starck records his 18,000km bicycle journey across 22 countries.

Free Solo (Disney+) – Explore Yosemite National Park with rock climber Alex Honnold as he attempts to solo climb the El Capitan peak – no assistance, and no equipment, harnesses or other protective equipment. An amazing test of endurance in one of the most beautiful natural areas on the planet – this documentary won an Oscar for Best Documentary Feature.

Become the Zumba dancer or yoga enthusiast you always wanted to be. Have you ever wanted to learn Zumba, but was always too embarrassed to do it in public? What about bringing more Zen into your life with yoga? Home workouts in general are a great idea to keep the body and the mind healthy. Fitness Blender has hundreds of free workouts to choose from online, and Yoga With Adriene runs a ’30 Days of Yoga’ challenge that’s perfect for any level. This is a great chance to learn, and there's plenty more free videos online!

Go to a concert. Now is a good time to re-live some great moments in time by our favourite singers and songwriters.

Head back to 1993 for Nirvana's Unplugged performance, Tina Turner's 1982 Nice & Rough tour, Beyonce's Glastonbury performance in 2011 (or Homecoming on Netflix), Queen's 1982 Live at The Bowl Buckinghamshire in England, Led Zepplin at the Knebworth Festival in 1979, Woodstock Festival in 1969, and the recent Fire Fight concert (on 7Plus) – just to give you a few ideas. T

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Working from Home...

In Style!

WORDS LARA O'DONNELL – Tailored HQ

Working from home is so 2020, and it’s a reality most of us are facing at the moment.

If you don’t have a designated home office not to worry, you can still be as productive as ever by following these easy tips.

Set the Scene – Setting the scene is essential as once you’ve set up, you don’t want to have to move it again. When scouting your new office location, make sure you have access to power and check that the internet reaches there, because you can’t start work without those two things!

Zone Your Home – Visual zoning is a really effective tool when designing a space. If you are using your dining table, try and section off an area that is dedicated to work so you can make it your own and not feel like you’re imposing on everyone else in the house. This also helps you mentally switch off at the end of the day. If you don’t need to go near that space again at the end of the day, it creates a better work-life balance.

Light – Lighting is an essential aspect as you don’t want to strain your eyes or feel like you’re working in the dark. Find a space that has good natural light if possible. Task lighting is also essential.

As most of us working at home will be on a computer, a desk or floor lamp is a great choice. Try and opt for a style where the globe isn’t visible, as it’s a distraction having it in your eye line.

Get Organised – Organisation is key!

Having papers all over the place is

overwhelming and can often look like there is more to do than there actually is. Try using files, or some nice looking storage boxes for your work items so you can stay focused and on track. Make a list of your tasks for the day, and only get out the papers you need for each task to minimise clutter.

Get Comfortable – As far as seating goes, it’s important you are comfortable as we spend a lot of our time working at our desks. Having a chair with a back is a necessity. If you are using a timber chair, add comfort by putting a sheepskin or a throw over it. Avoid using a sled based chair when selecting your seat of choice, as they are generally heavier and more awkward to get in and out of in a hurry.

Interior Design | Curtains & Blinds Custom Furniture | Art | Accessories At Tailored HQ we work to make spaces as unique as you are. Our dedicated team has everything you need to customise your home to achieve your dream look.

Style it Your Way – Now comes the fun part, styling your workspace. Add your personal touches through things like photo frames, or a vase with some greenery in it. A small storage box for items like headphones, post-it notes, and pens is a stylish way to put them out of sight once you’ve finished for the day. As they say, out of sight, out of mind!

Keep it Clean – A clean and neat workspace is the key to productivity if you’re getting distracted by mess and clutter it makes it more challenging to focus.

Now it’s time to put these points into practice and get your space into order. It can be overwhelming at times, remember designers are here for a reason and many are still consulting via video link so don’t be afraid to reach out for help.

Tailored HQ are now offering E-Styling services. To book a free phone or video call, book at www.tailoredhq.com.au

Suite 1A, Ground Floor, 41-45 Hunter Street, Newcastle. Phone 4047 2330

www.tailoredhq.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

Maintaining Support for The Olive Tree Community

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VIDA6575

By appointment Saturdays and Public Holidays

Regular Olive Tree Markets may have been cancelled for the foreseeable future amid COVID-19 concerns, but market-goers shouldn’t fear. The Olive Tree team has been connecting the community with local makers for the past 12 years, and that’s exactly what they intend to continue doing.

It’s a tough time for Australia’s creative community. The coronavirus pandemic continues to impact life as we all know it, but in terms of livelihood, makers, designers and creators have been among the hardest hit. Since its inception in 2008, the Olive Tree Market has been a key event for many creatives and vendors to sell their wares.

Showcasing artwork, fashion, jewellery, homewares and artisan food, hundreds of stallholders gather each month in Civic Park (as well as every few months at the Maitland Regional Art Gallery). The market has become a staple in the calendars of thousands of Novocastrians, all keen to support small local business and spend the first Saturday of each month strolling the stalls.

As such, the decision to cancel the planned April 4th market wasn’t one the Olive Tree team took lightly. But as the coronavirus situation worsened and the government recommended cancellation of nonessential outdoor events with 500+ people, it was the right thing to do. “The health and safety of our stallholder community, wonderful visitors and customers is our first and foremost priority,” said Olive Tree founder, Justine Gaudry, in a message to market-goers in March.

At the time of writing, even stricter guidelines are about to come into play, with shutdown measures throughout NSW aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19. This means markets are postponed until further notice, which will have a significant impact

on the many creatives whose livelihoods depend on events like these. But in the absence of physical markets, the Olive Tree team has pledged to seek out opportunities to support local makers through this challenging period – and they encourage you to do the same.

“In these uncertain times, we all need to come together and support each other where we can. If you have the ability to support your local creative community, we encourage you to do so,” Justine says. “Many of our community have online businesses and stores, which means that you are able to shop from home, and have beautiful work arrive by mail. If you have the ability to have food stalls provide catering for your business or small event, this would also be incredibly helpful.”

Scroll through the Olive Tree Market social channels, and you’ll find posts shouting out all kinds of makers from the local creative community. The team plans to post frequently about its regular stallholders in the coming weeks, complete with links to help you shop online and continue your support of small business while social distancing measures are in place.

There’s even talk of setting up some form of a centralised online store to bring the Saturday market experience to the digital sphere.

“We know that having so many creative events cancelled, including markets, festivals, concerts, theatre productions, and community gatherings not only affects creatives but that you as our community miss out on the thriving cultural landscape of our country, which is an important part of so many people’s lives,” Justine adds. But in tough times like these, it’s a matter of doing what we can, where we can. And for both the Olive Tree team and the Newcastle community, right now that means showing local makers they haven’t been forgotten.

To stay up to date and learn how you can support the creative community, keep an eye out on Facebook at facebook.com/ theolivetreemarket and on Instagram @olivetreemarket.

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Let’s Talk About Sundowning WORDS MICHELLE PAYNE - Anglican Care

You may not be familiar with the term sundowning, also known as “late-day confusion.” Sundowning is a symptom of mid-stage to advanced dementia. It refers to the increase in confusion, restlessness and agitation a person living with dementia may experience late in the afternoon and evening.

Dementia Australia outline that it can be worse after a change in routine or move. The person living with dementia may become more demanding, upset, suspicious and disorientated. At night they may perhaps hear or see things that aren’t real, and in some cases, they may behave more impulsively – putting them at risk.

What is the reason for sundowning?

Dementia Australia explains that sundowning may relate to the disruption of sleep patterns or lack of sensory stimulation after dark. At night, there are fewer cues in the environment, with the dim lights and the absence of noises from routine daytime activity. A person experiencing sundowning may be hungry, uncomfortable, in pain or needing to use the toilet, all of which they can only express through restlessness.

As the dementia progresses and they understand less about what is happening around them, they may become

PROUDLY AUSSIE OWNED

and World-Famous!

Just a short drive up the New England Highway from the bustling city of Newcastle, you’ll discover Mortels and experience how the world-famous Australian Ugg Boots are created. Experience the sights, sounds and smells of the fully operational manufacturing plant and watch how the Mortels UGG boots are locally made on an interactive tour.

After the tour, enjoy breakfast or lunch at the Café, purchase a local gem at the Gift Gallery and step back in time at the Sheep’s Back Museum. Plus take your Instagram to the next level by snapping the world’s biggest Ugg Boots!

Mortels Sheepskin Factory is a multi-award winning Australian-owned family business, and it's just up the road from Wine Country. The Mortels story began with Frank Mortel (master shoe craftsman) and wife Rita emigrating from the Netherlands in 1956 bringing with them the trade of shoe crafting, a trade that was passed down through the Mortel family for over 150 years.

more frantic in trying to restore their sense of familiarity or security. Many families and carers say that the person becomes more anxious about “going home” or “finding mother” late in the day, which may indicate a need for security and protection. They may be trying to find an environment that is familiar to them, particularly a place that was familiar to them at an earlier time in their life.

Below are seven steps which can help to reduce the symptoms: 1. Stick to the same schedule every day to help your loved one feel more calm and collected. Try to avoid making changes to routines that work for you both. If you need to make changes, try to adjust their routine gradually and as little as possible.

2. Light up their life by switching on more lights in the evening. You could also switch to brighter bulbs.

3. Keep your loved one active. Too much daytime dozing and inactivity can make it harder for your loved one to fall asleep at bedtime. This may cause fatigue which is

The Mortel family relocated from Sydney to the Maitland area in 1978 and from a shed in Lochinvar, the family continued developing their range of sheepskin products and growing their brand. In 1992, Tony Mortel and wife Stephanie took over the reins of the business.

With nearly 60 years of experience, Mortels have played a leading role in the evolution and direction of the Australian sheepskin industry. Mortels have driven improvements in the industry – from the quality of raw materials and the way they are processed – to developments in the manufacturing process, standards and designs.

Proudly Aussie owned and dedicated to manufacturing a premium quality sheepskin product, Mortels are of the oldest, continuously running ugg boot manufacturers in the world.

Weekly, the Mortel factory workers, create upwards of 1000 pairs of ugg boots in all styles and colours. Mortels source their sheepskins from a Tamworth based abattoir and have them tanned to their meticulous standards before being handcrafted at Thornton into a Mortel product.

“What sets us apart for all other manufacturers of sheepskin products is all our sheepskin batches are tested and certified for chemicals and dyes in strict accordance with European Safety standards,” explained Stephanie Mortel.

“Domestic and imported sheepskins and textiles are not subject to any custom requirements of meeting safety standards and the chemicals and dyes used in fabrics can cause cancer, chronic fatigue, asthma, skin conditions, allergies and many other diseases. We choose to test and certify as a measure of consideration for the health and wellbeing of customers and staff”.

Purchasers will know they have purchased a genuine Mortel product as Mortels only distribute within Australia

a common trigger of sundowning. To promote a good night’s sleep, help them stay active during the day.

Walking at your local park can be a great start.

4. Adjusting their eating patterns. Large meals can increase their agitation and may keep them up at night, especially if they consume caffeine or alcohol. Encourage your loved one to avoid those substances or enjoy them at lunch.

Limiting their evening food intake to a light meal might help them feel more comfortable and rest easier at night.

5. Minimise their stress. Encourage calmness by sticking to simple activities that aren’t too challenging or frightening.

Frustration and stress can add to their confusion and irritability. If they have mid-stage or advanced dementia, watching television or reading a book might be too difficult for them. Instead, consider playing soft music to create a calm and quiet environment. It might be a nice time for them to snuggle with a beloved cat or other pet.

6. Provide comfort and familiarity. Help fill your loved one’s life and home with things they find comforting.

7. Track their behaviour. Each person has different triggers for sundowning. Look for patterns to learn which activities or environments seem to make their symptoms worse.

Once you know their triggers, it will be easier to avoid situations that promote agitation and confusion.

Caregivers of people experiencing sundowning need to take good care of themselves to avoid exhaustion. You may benefit from speaking to a GP about what support services are available to help you take time out. Our friendly Customer Support Team at Anglican Care can also discuss with you our relevant services such as respite care, dementia-specific day therapy centres and home care services. Sources: Dementia Australia & Healthline.com

through their own retail outlets to preserve their brand and the quality of Australian manufacturing.

Mortels have also expanded their range of Australiana products. On offer is a range of country clothing including Australian made leather hats, oilskin coats, vests, hats, and quality accessories and Mortels own range of skincare products, which are created right here in the Hunter using natural lanolin as the main ingredient.

The range also includes furnishings such as small and large ottomans and pillows covered in genuine cowhides to compliment Mortels extensive range.

There is no doubting the Mortels commitment to their business and the sheepskin industry as a whole. Mortels Thornton manufacturing site also houses a large factory outlet store, a museum showcasing Australia’s rich sheepskin history and Mortels 60 years of manufacturing and a café serving all-day breakfast, great coffee and lunches.

Staff conduct factory tours Monday–Friday at 11am where visitors can watch, hear, feel and smell the real workings of an UGG boot factory – however these are currently suspended due to Covid-19. Keep an eye out for when they re-start! An extensive range of their products is on offer through their website www.mortels.com.au, direct sales to local, national and international customers. You’ll find Mortels at 1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton.

NEWSFLASH – Mortels currently have free shipping in all orders over $150 – so get online and stock up now for winter! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 25

Family5 Releases New Coronavirus Support for Families

LIVE YOUR LIST

Explore the Idea of the Fools Journey WORDS KIM-CHERIE DAVIDSON - Live Your Bucket List

This Hunter Valley resident has “always gone and done things.” She likes to seize opportunities then see what unfolds. In her forties, she boldly decided it was time to say goodbye to Melbourne’s boardrooms and embrace life. But she never realised this step would be such a profound learning experience.

Without any plans, and expecting to go overseas indefinitely, Penny Goldfinch chatted with her partner of six months, Ralph Kluge, about her decision. He wanted in and suggested they sail. Penny agreed, even though she had no sailing experience.

“It was a fool’s journey. In a heartbeat, we would do it again. The experience was pure life with every moment appreciated, as day-to-day, we faced life and death decisions.

The boat journey enabled me to find the pinnacle of importance: to live life without fear,” Penny said.

In 2009, stunned family and friends, saw the couple sell their properties, buy a boat, then set sail from Townsville to Papua and New Guinea with no itinerary other than to travel and contribute along the way.

From the start they had engine trouble, even though Ralph was an accomplished mariner, they still needed to sail a lot, and within six months, Penny was able to handle the boat.

“Sailing is a harsh lifestyle as you depend on the weather, and it tells you what to do.

Though it also gives you a fresh appreciation of life and your choices, which become very real and visceral.”

They were away for five years and visited the many Micronesian States that can only be accessed by private boats such as Puluwat, Wolei, Yap as well as the Solomon Islands, Samoa, Vanuatu and New Caledonia.

Along the way their contributions included being Australian International Volunteers, working for the United Nations, establishing Samoa’s first suicide prevention organisation, installing solar panels, teaching outboard 26 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

motor repair skills and business classes.

With thousands of highlights that Penny describes as both dangerous and cool (like sailing over the Mariana Trench), what sticks with her the most are the life lessons she learned along the way. These included trusting in her partner, believing in herself and her abilities and also being open to others values.

One of her most treasured takeaways happened during her shift at the helm, while under sail (as the engine had died again) in two to three-metre waves and Ralph resting.

When the wind died, bruised, tired and frantically sobbing, Penny decided to give in, take down the sails, lock herself in the cockpit. With the hope: “it will pass”.

“It did! The hysteria was not required.

It was a good and powerful lesson to learn.

It puts all things in perspective.”

During the journey, Penny became reacquainted with her creativity through photography. Coming from a family of photographers, she found it was an excellent way to keep in touch.

“I also discovered that if I stop taking photos, something is wrong – as it feeds my soul.”

In the future, the couple wants to buy another boat (with a functioning engine!), most likely in the US, and sail through other regions, maybe circumnavigating the world.

Penny now has an affinity with vast horizons. However, she believes it is more – a soul connection. She has experienced the coming home feeling in Wolei, as well as previously in Japan and Turkey.

“Yes, I looked odd being tall and fair, though I was like a duck to water with the culture, language and behaviour. I’m sure there will be other places.”

She feels a pull towards the Silk Road, Alaska, Greenland and Cuba.

From her sailing journey, Penny knows “life is for living, and there is nothing the human condition can’t achieve”.

She encourages others to live their best life, seize opportunities, see what manifests, go with the flow, explore the idea of the fool’s journey, and be open to more than what is on your list. Never has this advice been more valuable than right now.

As Covid-19 moves rapidly from country to country, Family5 has turned its attention to finding ways to help and support its global parenting community.

At a time when parents all over Australia have questions and concerns about how best to face the current crisis and how to help their children understand and adjust, Family5 has received hundreds of messages from parents asking questions such as how to talk to kids about Covid-19, what to do if/when schools close, helping kids who are anxious and more.

• How do I talk to my kids about • What should I do if schools close?

• How can I help my anxious child through this worrying time?

• How do I support my child if someone close to her becomes ill?

As part of its mission to give families better access to expert parenting support, and in response to its users, the Family5 team has been busy creating Situations for every one of these questions and more.

Concerned parents can now find free Covid-19 related tips and advice from parenting experts in a new temporary Covid-19 category in the app. Here parents will find suggestions from some of the world’s leading parenting professionals such as Alice Hanscam, Beth Greenawalt, Tina Feigal and Jelena Forese (who is also under quarantine in Italy).

Parents should check in each day as the team continues to add content in response to the changing situation.

Family5 is available to download from the App Store and Google Play.

Thriving Not Just Surviving It may be that families are quarantined, have been asked to stay at home or are voluntarily choosing to practice social distancing. With working-from-home becoming the new norm, Family5 helps parents and children make the most of their (extra) time together.

There are over 500 cognitive functioning boosting activities on the app, all designed to help families to connect and have fun.

Finding ways to play and learn together is easy with Family5.

Re-Discover Mortels

Factory Tours · Shop · Café · Museum

Please Note: Daily Factory Tours are temporarily suspended 1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton Ph 4966 0990 4/305 Hillsborough Road, Warners Bay Ph 4953 7373

www.mortels.com.au for online ordering and delivery

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What about the wear on certain teeth? It’s often a symptom of a change in their bite. What about deteriorating fillings – usually in hard to get at places, that haven’t been included in the plan? What about the identification of key teeth – the teeth most critical to the maintenance of function and cosmetics? What about just a thorough professional clean and some coaching around the patient’s home care?

These are all fundamentals. And they are often ignored.

If you have dental problems, my theory is simple.

1. Get the fundamentals right first: this is about ensuring stability moving forward 2. Once you are stable, if you desire more exotic treatments, you can build these on top of the fundamentals that you have developed in the first phase of treatment. If you are satisfied with the fundamentals – GREAT! You are now dentally stable – go and enjoy life.

Good Fundamentals

Key to Dental Treatment

So what is wrong with doing dentistry this way? Firstly, getting the fundamentals right takes time and effort. If your problems have arisen over a period of 20 years, then I don’t believe these kinds of issues can be resolved in 3 weeks.

Often there will be some new learning of how your body is responding to these changes as well as new learnings on how to treat your body to create the healing and stability you desire. Healing takes time. Remember – we are aiming for a stable, durable result.

It can be tempting to get a quick fix. The problem with quick fixes in dentistry is that not only is money expended – often significant amounts of money. And the key issue is that these quick fixes are often irreversible.

If you engage in a quick fix – and lots of healthy tooth is cut away (as in the case of crowns) – you may have dug yourself into a hole. In time, some of your problems may/will

WORDS ALEX HUSZTI - BelleDental Alex has had a career focused on low-biologic cost reconstructive cosmetic dental care – common sense teeth for life.

I regularly see patients for second opinions. Almost invariably, the patient has been presented with an exotic plan of treatment – complex and filled with all of the latest trends in dental restorative procedures. But on inspection of their mouth, I notice that basics have been overlooked.

return and you have debilitated teeth because lots of tooth structure has been cut away by the quick fix. If this happens, the cost of the solution escalates dramatically – sometimes to the point that almost no amount of money is going to overcome uncertainties and give you back your own teeth.

Yes – I understand that dental implants are an option.

Please understand that dental implants are not your own teeth, they have their own set of problems and short-comings, have a very long treatment program and they are frightfully expensive. If money is not a limitation to you – you may consider them – but I would still caution you about some aggressive implant treatment modalities. In my practice, dental implants are a last resort - not a go-to treatment.

So what do good dental fundamentals look like?

1. Tooth colour that the patient is happy with 2. Absence of disease in either the hard tissues (teeth and bone of the jaws) or soft tissues (gum and lining of the mouth) 3. Sufficient functional capacity to satisfy the patient requirements around being able to chew their food as well as being able to function socially 4. Comfort 5. Dental Stability – year on year minimal deterioration of the dental system as a consequence of dentistry that is durable, repairable and maintainable.

Obviously, your dentistry should be minimally invasive, wellexecuted and have an element of long term strategy about it.

This kind of planned care ensures that in time, if you do have mishaps, there will be a recovery option that is a feature of the dental restorative strategy that you have embarked on.

Very often, the more fundamental treatments have more straightforward recovery options in case of a mishap.

3 Techniques That SAVE Your Teeth 1

Belledental CRC’s (Composite Resin Crowns) CRC’s can rebuild teeth to a similar appearance, strength and functionality of conventional crowns with the added benefits of being much more conservative of tooth structure, repairable, and ONE appointment restorations that are often HALF the fee of conventional crowns.

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They often require modifications to your bite to accomodate your new smile.

Direct Resin Veneers have a multitude of uses – they can be used to improve function, enhance the colour and shape of teeth, modify tooth position as well as in this case, restore teeth that have suffered trauma. Direct Resin Veneers can do this without cutting teeth – all in one visit.

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KEEPING HEALTHY

At Home

WORDS KRISTEN GOLDSWORTHY – Planet Fitness Newcastle

As social distancing and self-isolating are becoming common, and we are no longer able to offer our members our clubs to train in, we’ve been coming up with ways to help Novocastrians stay fit and healthy at home. From virtual workouts to making the most out of your home environment, here’s how the Planet Fitness team can help you stay active while at home.

It is recommended that adults should do strength exercises, as well as 150 minutes of moderate activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, every week. But how can you achieve that when gyms and sporting facilities across the country are closed, and we are being asked to stay home where possible? You may be worried your fitness will suffer over the coming months, but even though Planet Fitness isn't physically still here to help you out, we are still committed to putting your health and fitness first.

While you may not be able to stick to your regular routine of leaving the house, going shopping, meeting friends, and coming to the gym, you can create a new routine at home which includes alternative ways to keep active. As tempting as it may be to stay in your PJs all day, in the long run, this is bound to harm your overall mood.

Try getting up at the same time every day, doing a workout first thing, taking a shower and making breakfast.

There are loads of studies backing up the benefits of routine on positive mental health.

You know exercise is good for you—but do you know why?

Studies say that physical activity can boost self-esteem, mood, sleep quality and energy, as well as reducing your risk of stress, depression, dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Moving regularly will lift your mood and keep you fit, and it will help you to stay focused. Win, win.

Try setting a reminder on your phone at three different times across the day when you know you’ll be able to pause

and get some movement in. Why not do a gentle yoga stretch in the morning, walking around your yard on your lunch break, and a workout from the Planet Fitness AU app in the evening?

The concept of using makeshift weights at home can seem daunting, but strength training doesn’t have to mean using heavy Fast, weights as little in asthe gym. Use items from around your 15-minutes home to add weight to your workouts. Things like cans of food, bottles of water, or bags of rice can all be used to help with strength training. If the idea of lifting tin cans, flour No surgery or bags and water bottles doesn't appeal to you, try getting needles imaginative with other bodyweight ways you can move inside.

Practice your planks. And perfect your sit-ups. Lunge in front of the TV, press-up on the sofa or do tricep dips on a Noincline downtime chair.

Remember to stretch! Moderate stretching or incorporating someClinically yoga into proven your day will help avoid stiff joints and maintainresults proper blood circulation. Try following along with a YouTube yogi; we recommend Yoga With Adrienne or, if you want to get your kids involved, try Cosmic Comfortable, safe, Kids Yoga. all, we 1 could all use a little Zen at the and After effective moment.

Incorporate a walk or a run into your day, to get some Latest technology fresh air and sunlight.

Go for a walk in less busy areas and available stay away from other walkers or runners, making sure to keep at least 1.5m between yourself and others. Even a simple walk around your yard to stretch your legs and get your body moving can be enough.

Be sure to download the Planet Fitness AU app to help you stay fit at home; it's got tons of features like workouts, nutrition info, and progress tracking. To download, simply go to the App Store on iPhone or Android and type in ‘Planet Fitness AU’, then click the ‘Download’ button.

We would also like to take this opportunity to reassure our members that all memberships have been frozen. No payments will be taken during this time. If you are a prepaid member, the length of time Planet Fitness is closed will be added on to the end of the membership, so you don't miss out on any time with us. The health and wellbeing of our members, staff, and community remains our top priority. Stay safe, take care of your loved ones and yourself. We will get through this. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 29

ON TOUR WITH THE KID

Small Steps 4 Hannah WORDS CHLOE O'SULLIVAN

February 18th started like any other day. We all did our regular weekday routine. We got kids ready for school, got ready for work and went about our day. During the course of the day however, there was a news story, the details of which seemed incomplete. It was reported that an ex-NRL player had died along-side his three children in a car fire and a woman was injured and in hospital. When I first saw it, I automatically assumed it was a car accident. Cars don’t just spontaneously combust under normal circumstances.

As the details of “the woman” came to light, the nations collective hearts broke. Thirty-one-year-old Hannah Baxter had been doing what we all had done that morning—getting her kids ready for the day and in a split second, everything had changed. By the time the news reported that Hannah had died due to her injuries sustained in the fire, more details had emerged about the cause of the blaze and it seemed totally at odds with the initial framing of the story.

The footy player who had reportedly died along-side his children had set the blaze which killed them. But for his actions, Hannah and her three children Laianah, 6, Aaliyah,

LOCAL

4, and Trey, 3 would all still be alive. To say he died alongside them seemed insulting.

In no other situation would the perpetrator be referred to in this way. It’s the odd thing about adding the word domestic situation or former partner to a story such as this that I think makes people subconsciously a bit relieved. It’s always felt to me that it implies a choice on the part of the victim and the collective community can be reassured there is not a random serial killer roaming the streets, just this one violent offender terrorising this one particular person. Not that people are not sympathetic and horrified, but it does somehow put some distance between you and the situation.

After watching Hannah’s family interviewed on Channel 9, I just felt broken. I know good men, the husbands and partners of friends, who broke down in front of the TV and some that had to get up and leave the room. Their grief and shock just poured through the screens into every household in the country. It must have been so hard, but you could tell that the three of them, Hannah’s parents and her brother were determined to be the voice for the four people who had their voices and their stories taken away.

When it was announced that there would be a Rally for

Hannah held in Civic Park on March 4, I wanted to go and I wanted to take the kid. We arrived with several hundred other people. The speakers were from victim support groups and other organisations that work on the front lines of the crisis. Their speeches were passionate and fiery. I was happy that in the time between the murders and the rally, I was not alone in my emotions – swinging from heartbroken to pissed off. Hannah did everything right; she left the relationship, the family said the police took the situation seriously, her family were supportive and yet she still became a statistic.

There were some great practical suggestions about what people could do to help, which I found useful. For example, writing to your local member and talking about the lack of funding for local shelters so that if victims are fleeing a violent situation they have somewhere to go and stricter punishments for those who break an AVO already in place.

One I had never thought of before was that a lot of people wouldn't leave if they had to leave animals behind, as they are scared of what while happen to the animals if left in the hand of abusers. We heard horrific stories on the night of abusers either threatening harm or actually killing family pets as a means of control.

I urge everyone to check out local advocacy groups like VOCAL (Victim of crime assistance league) and even the Animal Justice Party social pages and see what you can do to make a difference because something needs to change.

Also visit Small steps 4 Hannah, which has been set up by the family to raise money and awareness. Do what you can to make sure, as a nation we grieve these losses with less regularity than we have been. Visit www.smallsteps4hannah.com.au

EISS Super Charlesown Opening of EISS Super at Charlestown (well before social distancing obviously!) EISS Super is an active part of communities where members live and work. Check out www.eisuper.com.au/our-community-involvement to see which local communities benefit from EISS Super support.

Right: Brett Kimmorley, Alexander Hutchison, Ross Bingham; Bottom Left: Chantell Keating, Ross Bingham, Donna Horsey, Alexander Hutchison; Bottom Right: Stephen & Vicki Nichols, Denenne & Derek Barrie.

All images thanks to

30 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

School Holiday Keep the

cabin fever

! n u F

at bay!

WORDS MIA KYRIKOS

It’s no secret that the Easter school holidays this year is going to be different. The coronavirus outbreak has brought a new set of challenges, one being more time spent indoors. But, along with this challenge comes a new opportunity to slow down, make the most of the time indoors and simply enjoy time together. Admittedly, this is easier said than done and keeping your sanity during this time in close quarters will likely be tested. For this reason, we have the perfect list of activities that are sure to keep the kids busy and your nerves intact. On a side note, if all else fails a glass or two of wine wouldn’t go astray.

Superhero Day Keeping routine during the school holidays is a tricky one, but all too important to ensure the flow of the household stays in place. One way to do this is to help the kids look forward to different days in the week by creating themes. A perfect theme to get the kids excited is Superhero Day. Get everyone involved, designing superhero outfits, discuss your superpowers and dedicate the whole day to a super day with your superfamily.

Enjoy your very own Marvel moment with superhero movies, create a comic book strip and get the kids involved with creating an obstacle course for their superhero training.

Netflix and chill Sometimes when all else fails, we need to head back to the old faithful. While you might not want to crack on the screentime rules, this could be the perfect time to huddle down and just enjoy each other’s company. Lock in a movie list for each day of the week, or hunker down and plan a binge-watching session with the whole family. And most importantly, don’t forget Frozen 2 is now streaming on Disney+, and as they say, there is no time like the present!

(Continued next page) ► www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31

way to get the kids moving. Challenge them to choreograph a new routine, get them to sing a song, start a round of karaoke or just have an indoor dance party together. There are even plenty of online live kid-friendly dance parties. So tune in and get ready for a boogie!

DIY spa day Need a moment of downtime? Set-up your very own DIY spa day! Crack open the nail polish and get crafty.

This is the perfect day to make bath bombs or even your own body scrub. Then the best part, test it all out after!

Play-dough and slime If the kids are keen to get messy, but you are hoping to keep this one contained, then why not make your very own play-dough. All you need are quart-sized bags, all-purpose flour, salt, cream of tartar, water, veggie or coconut oil, and food colouring. There are plenty of recipes online to check out, and if you are open to something a little messier (but way more fun!) why not create your very own slime!

The great indoor-camp-out While the great outdoors is a bit of no-go at the moment, why not recreate your very own camping experience, but inside! Set-up a tent (or a pillow fort), crack open the marshmallows and enjoy a cosy evening together.

(Continued) Old-school board games From Cluedo, Uno, Monopoly, Scrabble or even ConnectFour; this is the easiest way to while away the hours and keep the kids busy. It also might be time to break out the jigsaw puzzle!

Let’s vlog it! It’s no surprise that Youtube is all the rage these days, with all kinds of content to keep the little minds active and learning. From toy reviews to learning about space, there is plenty to explore online with guidance. For those seeking a more creative outlet, it is also the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill like video editing and get in on the action! Help your little ones create their very own vlog and Youtube channel. Alternatively, hit up TikTok for new-age fun, learn dance moves and upload your very own family video.

Feel zen with some Yoga There is plenty of video content floating around to help with this one, but a series to have the kids hooked is the YouTube account Cosmic Kids Yoga. With all kinds of yoga-for-kids videos, its sure to help the kids zen out in the lounge room. The best part is, it’s not just for kids; you can all do yoga together as a family!

Cooking and baking If you have a little Masterchef on your hands, or you would just like to level up on at-homeskills, then spend a day cooking or baking together. Cookies, scones, brownies. Baking is an excellent lesson in measuring, ingredients, and of course, making delicious goodies. The same applies to cooking. Give the kids a challenge and let them pick out a kid-friendly recipe for dinner. And voila, a delicious dish and an afternoon of fun!

Learn something new With so much time spare it can be a bit overwhelming deciding what to do next. But it is also the perfect time to set some challenges. The challenge could be for independent learning or even something you and your little superstar to undertake together. Feeling musical? Learn an instrument. Parlez-vous Français, non? Why not learn a language! Download Duolingo and give it a try, or head over to Youtube. Or better yet, learn a new skill like knitting or crochet. Check out Ravelry a free online resource for knitters, 32 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

no matter your skill level. Now more than ever is a perfect time, with plenty of online resources you and your little one will be able to skill up in no time.

Get crafty For little Monet’s in the making, these school holidays are perfect for unleashing that inner artist. Get creative and get crafty. From building a toilet paper bird feeder to pressing flowers, or simply buckling in with some painting and drawing, enjoy the time creating something new.

If you are stuck for ideas, head online and join a free virtual arts and crafts lesson. From origami to Easter crafts, there is plenty to choose from.

Have fun in your own backyard Being cooped up inside can admittedly drive even the most sound a little mad. If the sun is shining, then hop into your garden and soak up those rays. There is nothing quite like a good old-fashioned game of backyard cricket, or why not try your hand at a new game, like Finska. If you are a bit limited with space, look at how you can keep the kids busy growing a herb garden or try a spot of bird and insect watching.

The art of pen and paper The art of writing is argued to be lost by some, but now is the time to rekindle this passion.

A great way to excite the kids is to read a book together and then get them to write their very own novel. Or another challenge could be getting your kid to start their own journal.

If neither is of interest, perhaps it’s a good time to look at breaking out the envelopes and stamps. Get the kids to write a letter to someone they love like grandma and grandpa, or a family member who lives far away.

Building block challenge Give the kids something to look forward to and check-out the 30-Day Lego Challenge. With daily challenges like 'build a house' to 'design a new space rocket’, kids will be encouraged to think outside the box when creating something new each day. Plus, it might also give you a few moments of quiet… sounds great, right?

Dance and impromptu concerts Turn your living room into a stage and break out the tunes. This is an easy and sure

Take a virtual trip to the Museum or the Zoo What is better than a trip to the museum or the zoo? Doing it from the comfort of your very own couch!

Taronga Zoo Sydney and Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo can now also be explored through exciting Virtual Reality experiences using Google Expeditions. To do this, just download the Google Expeditions app on your mobile device or tablet, search for Taronga, and get ready for your virtual field trip! Alternatively, visit San Diego Zoo thanks to several animal cameras set-up across the site. Highlights include the koala cam, polar bear cam, and tiger cam. For the cutest of them all though, check out the Monterrey Bay Aquarium SeaOtter Cam that allows you to watch what the sea otters are doing at any given time of day! Families can also take virtual tours of museums and galleries around the world! Check out the British Museum in London, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, The Louvre in Paris and the Guggenheim in New York City. Another highlight is the virtual tour of the Great Wall of China or the digital field trip to Yellowstone National Park.

All can be done from the comfort of your own home. BYO snacks!

Go on Safari Much like the virtual tours, you can now head on an African Safari while at home! Check out Nat Geo’s Wild Earth | Safari Live to see animals on the prowl and learn about the wildlife kingdom in all its glory. You can also check out the waterhole cams of famous game reserves amongst other live streams. Check out explore.org/livecams for more.

Create your own magical moments Have a budding Houdini in your midst? These school holidays get them learning the best magic tricks online. Who knows, they might even surprise you!

Paper aeroplane competition A sure way to get the competitive juices flowing is to have a family paper aeroplane challenge! Spend the afternoon learning to create a variety of paper aeroplanes and put them to the test.

Head to Space No, we aren’t even kidding! Storytime From Space is unlike any other kind of storytime; NASA astronauts read stories to kids while they float around in space. F

The NASA website is also packed full of free activities and worksheets for children interested in outer space. If your little one is aspiring to be an astronaut, there are also countless free images of the universe that are packed with shapes and colours sure to keep them stimulated for hours on end.

Study the weather A sure way to get the kids excited for the day is by studying the weather! Set-up a daily weather watch diary and note down any key changes they see. For those who are more interested, you could even do a study on the weather, using the Smithsonian Science Education Center. Learn about currents, air masses, and more.

Learn to code If you have a brain that needs a little more stimulation, then get them learning the ropes of coding! A special skill that is bound to help them through all walks of life, there is plenty of free online resources to help understand the ins and outs. Check out Code.org, Code Monsters, Khan Academy, Scratch or Swift Playgrounds to get them going.

Get experimental Discover the wonders of the world right at home through an awesome science experiment! Check-out the incredible ideas online from

learning how to make a tornado in a cup, make instant ice cream or develop elephant toothpaste. For more ideas, visit Youtube, www.fizzicseducation.com. au/category/150-science-experiments or www.madsciencepromo.com/ athomeexperiments.

Another great way to do some science experiments is with Bill Nye, The Science Guy. Check out his website www.billnye. com/home-demos for more.

Indoor Easter Egg Hunt Since it is Easter, this is the perfect time to create your very own indoor Easter egg hunt! Get the kids buzzing and indulge a bit by cracking open the chocolate Easter eggs. Or for more fun, with less sugar, why not create your own Easter eggs! Paint some hard-boiled eggs and enjoy an afternoon of fun. P

Richmond Vale

The Mining Museum will be open showing artefacts and records from the early days of mining in the area. An audio-visual program will be running both days with film clips relating to mining and rail transport.

The Canteen provides hot and cold ALL AGES drinks, food and snacks or you can bring your Take a step back in time to experience the sights and smells of steam at Richmond Vale own picnic to enjoy in the bushland setting.

Richmond Vale Railway Museum will also Railway Museum on Saturday 18 and Sunday be open on Sunday 12 and Sunday 26 April.

19 April. The gates open at 9.30am and the

first train runs at 10am.

DETAILS 262 Leggetts Drive, Kurri Kurri.

There will also be displays of live steam PH 4018 7230 model trains and small steam engines.

The miniature train will be providing rides www.richmondvalerailwaymuseum.org for kids big and small.

Railway Museum

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Please note that while the animals generally join guests as shown, no guarantees can be given as they are free to roam their entire area at all times.

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Canberra 02 6287 8444 | www.jamala.com.au info@jamalawildlifelodge.com.au *Conditions apply - check our website

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

Holiday Art Workshops

Finite Gallery The kids are sure to be kept busy this school holidays with the fantastic range of 2-hour children's workshops at Finite Gallery.

AGES 6 - 16 YEARS

There are a wide range of workshops on offer – everything from creating in Clay to Tie Dyeing, Painting and Weaving. All materials are included!

Parents/Carers are also welcome to participate, so why not make it a fun family day?

Small Class Sizes

for Creative Kids

AGES 6 - 18 YEARS

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

The Studio Adamstown has you covered these School Holidays with our Creative Children's Holiday Program. There is something for all mini artists (6-16yrs) with a wide range of workshops across drawing, painting, craft, and sculpture.

Step away from screens and into the studio to let imaginations run wild. Students can join us for a whole day of art activities or pick and choose workshops to suite your schedule. Excellent multiple enrollment and sibling discounts available. Creative Kids Vouchers accepted.

www.thestudioadamstown.com The Studio Adamstown PH 0404 736 083 E hello@thestudioadamstown.com

For the first 6 people to p resent this ad, you can ride for 1 .5 hours for the pric e of a one hour ride !

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR RE-OPENING DATES!

Hunter Ice Skating

Stadium ALL AGES, ALL ABILITIES Holiday Super Sessions are back! Skate as long as you like on weekdays during the school holidays.

There are party games like limbo and pass the puck and a sectioned off area for beginners with skating frames available.

For the non-skating spectators – why not relax in the café while the kids skate!

A great option in wet weather and also a great place to be when it's really hot outside.

Rental Skate sizes range from a Kids 9 up to an Adults 14. Lockers are available for a small fee to secure your belongings whilst on the ice.

DETAILS 230 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay. Prices are $16 for 6yrs or under, $20 for 7yrs or over, $18 seniors and $65 for a family (1 adult + 3 kids OR 2 adults + 2 kids). These prices include skate hire – with your own skates you will save $4. For more details and other session times please visit the website. www.hiss.com.au

Hunter Valley

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. Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders – even the tiny tots can ride beautiful ponies with 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 and feed horses, learn about looking after horses, saddlery, and of course ride!

Other activities on offer include ATV tours, tractor hay rides to feed the animals, pedal go karts, farm animals, BBQ facilities and mountain bike trails (byo bike).

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.

DETAILS Open 7 days, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale. Bookings are recommended.

PH Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008, or visit www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

OF MAITLAND GAOL THESE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS OPEN SEVEN DAYS

• Self guided audio tours daily • Guided tours including: 150 Years Under Lock and Key and Escapes • Children’s activities at 11.00am on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

• Snitch’s Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Saturday

t 02 4936 6482 Book online at maitlandgaol.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 35

Get ready and enrol for Term 2!

DANCE FOR LITTLE BODS Children learn and develop the most between the ages of 0-5 years old.

Which is why its so important to have the right extra curricular activities that will help your young dancer grow and become ready for school.

Our Tiny Tot dance classes for boys and girls develop the love of movement and music helping little bodies and minds understand spacial awareness, develop fine and gross motor skills, dancing by themselves and with others, how to follow instructions and uses music and dance to build imagination through story telling.

ENROL NOW FOR TERM 2

FREE Trial Class in both Ballet and Jazz classes.

Visit our website for enrolment or contact the studio for more info.

P 02 4952 9294 nationalcollegeofdance.com

Hunter Region

UnrealVR - Premium Virtual Reality

Botanic Gardens

ALL AGES You can’t go wrong with this hi-tech, kid-friendly and affordable Charlestown VR venue, boasting two and a half years of excellent VR activities and parties for kids and adults alike.

If the kids have never tried full scale virtual reality; add it to their bucket lists this holiday!

Unlike the Playstation version – our VR allows for completely free movement, all while interacting with the virtual worlds in the headsets. With over 50 games to try; there’s always something fun for everyone, yes even you, nan!

EVENTS CANCELLED Gardens closed to the public until further notice. www.unrealvr.com.au LOCATED 178 Pacific Hwy, Charlestown E info@unrealvr.com.au PH 4943 0943

STAY INTOUCH WITH WHATS HAPPENING Facebook: HunterRegionBotanicGardens www.huntergardens.org.au

F 50% TOOUFCH FOR IN S!!

READER

Toboggan Hill Park ALL WEATHER FAMILY FUN! Toboggan Hill Park, located just off Salamander Way at Nelson Bay, has activities for the whole family with plenty of outdoor and indoor fun!

Open every day through the school holidays from 10am.

Outside: kids big and small can enjoy the 1km toboggan ride, tractor train, giant maze, 19 hole mini golf & splashdown water balloon game.

Inside:‘hot’ ice-skating, jumping castles, plaster painting, kiddy karz and rock-climbing wall, plus more!

We also have a food kiosk and an outdoor picnic area, BBQ available for hire, and can cater for kids birthday parties or group events – visit our website or contact us for more information.

DETAILS 16 Aquatic Close, Nelson Bay. PH 4984 1022 E toboggan@tobogganhillpark.com www.tobogganhillpark.com

Julie Logan Music

Goes Online!

50% OFF FOR INTOUCH READERS! Looking for ways to fill your days at home?

Want someone else to lead the show and distract your kids?

We have begun fully interactive classes online and this is the perfect chance for you to check it out. Research shows adding imaginative musical play to your routine will increase all those feel-good hormones, as well as burning off plenty of energy!

2100 Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae PH 4987 1655 E events@huntergardens.org.au

Don’t let your child’s brain go into lockdown – be inspired by experienced teachers with new ideas, and join our welcoming online community.

Reduce everyone’s anxiety by immersing yourself in the joy of making music as we bop, ting and sing. You’ll get to share all our magical moments of singing, dancing and playing together PLUS get to meet all the other families in the same boat!

Fri 24th April • 0–4 years: Five Little Ducks 10.30am– 11.10am • 5–7 years: Rockin’ Rooster 11.30am– 12.10pm.

Online numbers will be limited so bookings essential. $20 per family; includes bonus pdf's to keep everyone busy for the rest of the week.

DETAILS Get 50% off – use PromoCode: intouch (for families new to JLM). More dates coming soon! Get on our mailing list to be first in. Term 2, 2020: Mon 27 Apr–Mon 29 Jun. PH 0425 227 582 or 0414 848 741. For more info visit www.julieloganmusic.com.au To sign up visit www.dancestudio-pro.com/ online/julieloganmusic

In asso

ciation

with

BACK SOON WITH SANBAH SKATE & SNOW! As a result of having planned to close for a fit-out to re-launch as Sanbah Skate & Snow, Sanbah Grindhouse is currently closed.

We are a family owned business and thank you for your continued support and understanding with these changes. For those who pre-booked lessons or After School Programs, we are working to provide a credit note for one of our stores or a refund for any outstanding programs/lessons. If you have a lay-by to collect, this will be kept at Sanbah Surf in The Junction for pick up.

For enquiries visit www.sanbahgrindhouse.com or call (02) 4925 2714

SHOP ONLINE AT www.sanbahgrindhouse.com www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37

Illustration by Dale Forward

Art House Studios

Does your child love art?

Now is the perfect time to let your child take a break, and create art in our gorgeous, fully equipped art studio. These school holidays, children and teens will learn fun drawing and painting techniques in our engaging small group workshops.

This April, choose from the following: • Super Sloths • Drawing Dragons

• Drawing Fantasy scenes • Sushi Day • Miniature day – drawing, painting and modelling Each workshop is designed and led by Priya, an artist and qualified teacher with 20+ years experience. Lots of guidance and encouragement will help your child build confidence in their skills.

Most importantly, will they enjoy our workshops? Judging from past workshops…

They probably won’t want to leave at 4pm!

10am–4pm, all art materials provided.

Most workshops 7yrs+. We accept the $100 Creative Kids Voucher. For dates and booking details, please visit our website.

DETAILS Level 1, 268 Turton Road, New Lambton. PH 0478 116313. Visit www.arthousestudios.com.au E priyajoy@arthousestudios.com.au

Reach New

Heights

These School Holidays!

Unleash your Inner Ninja!

Looking for something fun for the kids? Look no further than the Ninja Parc school holiday program! Available weekdays during the April school holidays with 2, 3-hour sessions starting at 9am and 1pm.

The Ninja Parc school holiday program is designed to get kids moving and learning new skills, all while having fun. The holiday programs include three hours of entertainment and skill development for 38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

primary school aged children (6–12yrs), that takes your little ninja across the Ninja Parc Obstacle course, the Climb Parc rock climbing walls, and Into the Sports Parc for some indoor sports fun!

If you’re ready to set your little Ninja up for best school holidays in town, visit our website to book their place!

DETAILS Cnr Darby St & Tooke St, Cooks Hill Ninja Parc open Mon–Fri 6am–9pm, Sat+Sun 9am–6pm; Climb Parc open Mon–Fri: 10am–6pm. Sat–Sun 9am–5pm.

PH 4926 4488 E cookshillreception@theparc.com.au www.ninjaparc.com.au

BEGINNERS AND EXPERIENCED Pulse Climbing has gone one better and opened an exciting new boulder gym in Warners Bay to complement its top rope climbing gym in Adamstown to better cater for increased popularity of the sport in the Newcastle Region.

Pulse Climbing Managing Director, Scott Forrester said "It's an exciting time at Pulse Climbing and climbing in general as the debut of the sport in the Olympics in Tokyo 2020 approaches. It fantastic to see the next generation of climbers come through our doors and fall in love with the sport. The thought of helping an athlete achieve an Olympic dream is a fabulous prospect and something we hope to achieve as climbing continues to grow in popularity and cements itself as an Olympic sport".

Pulse Climbing is the perfect venue for beginner climbers looking to try the sport for the first time. Experienced, friendly staff are on hand to give advice and every first time climber gets a safety orientation before they get started to make sure they get the most out of their visit. We also cater for the more experienced climber with excellent training facilitates and a progression of climbing grades that will keep all levels of climbers wanting to come back for the next challenge.

YOUTH HOLIDAY CLINICS Pulse Climbing youth holiday clinics are a great way to keep the kids happy and healthy during the school holidays! Running from 10am–1pm they include warm-ups, climbing games and activities, individualised advice, a healthy morning tea and cool down activities.

The holidays clinics are suitable for children aged 8+.

Adamstown sessions will be held on 14+21 April. Warners Bay sessions will be held on 16+23 April. Places are limited so please book in advance by calling the gym to secure your spot.

DETAILS No bookings required for casual gym entry. Open 10am everyday in the school holidays (until 10pm Mon–Fri, 6pm Sat and 4pm Sun). Minimum climbing age of 5, all children under 12 must be actively supervised by an adult.

FIND US Warners Bay – 2/305 Hillborough Road Warners Bay; Adamstown – 10/122 Garden Grove Parade, Adamstown. www.pulseclimbing.com.au

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OPEN THE DOOR TO NSW’S MOST EXCITING & VIBRANT BUILDER. (NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE )

Symphony 29 – On Display Housing World Watagan Park

SINGLE | DOUBLE | ACREAGE | SPLIT-LEVEL DISCOVER HOW MOJO HOMES GIVES YOU MORE. MORE INCLUSIONS. MORE VALUE. MORE CERTAINTY. Don’t miss out on getting started with building your new home.

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