Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley | INTOUCH MAGAZINE AUG 23' ISSUE

Civic Theatre presents...

Christine Dunstan Productions

Adapted for the stage by Tim McGarry

Colleen McCollough’s Tim

Sydney Dance Company presents

An inspired triple bill from renowned choreographers

Venue. Newcastle City Hall 290 King Street, Newcastle NSW 2300

bit.ly/tickets-NCH-34thNewcastleJazzFestival

Festival line Up orchestra & big bands

Bathtub Gin Orchestra: 1920s stomp, 1930s swing with a dash of Gypsy

Bill Dudley’s New Orleanians: Foot tapping New Orleans Jazz

Blues Point Vocal Group: Vocal quartet, Craig Scott Double Bass

Bob Henderson’s Quintet: Mainstream Jazz - Joy Yates Vocal

Bridge City Jazz Band: Traditional Jazz band

Bruce Mathiske: Guitar Virtuoso

Chloe Gill Trio: Playing original songs by Chloe.

Chris Dawson Band: 5 piece band playing original tunes

Civic String Quartet: Playing the music of Duke Ellington

Cygan Groove: Gypsy Jazz Quartet

Daryl Aberhart Quartet: Shake the blues away

Dedos Curiosos: Acoustic Brazillian Jazz

Dickeson/Locke/Scott Trio: Classic jazz piano trio

Emma Hamilton Quintet: From Paris to New Orleans: French Jazz

Exploding Happiness: Fun 11 piece blues/jazz funk

Fish Fry: Jump, Jive Jazz with Justin Collins on vocals

Freddie Stafford Trio: Standards and original compositions

Geoff Power Jazz Band: New Orleans Jazz/Blues with Lee Gunness on vocals

Greg Englert Jazz Band: Louis Armstrong tribute

Gregg Arthur Quartet: Tony Bennett Tribute

Half Nelson: 1920s Jazz & Blues with Sheriden Nelson on vocals

Heather Price & Dungeon Small Band: Blues, Soul - infused Jazz

Hunter & Brown Quintet: Vibrant swing music performed by the likes of Art Blakey

Jack McLaughlin Memorial Band: Remembering a jazz icon

Jazz Gospel: Lee Gunness with Geoff Power Band

Jive Bombers: Great dance band

Licorice Allsorts: Three clarinet front line Traditional Jazz

Miau: Original eclectic tunes referenced in Australian bush

Mousai: Female mainstream jazz band

New Orleans Ramblers: New Orleans style Traditional Jazz

Nicki Parrott Quartet: Mainstream Jazz -

Internationally acclaimed bass/vocalist

Paul David Trio: Jazz/Latin group inspired by artists & composers of the classic era

Port Hunter Jazz Band: New Orleans Jazz band

Rehab Brass Band: Dance to New Orleans style street band

Robbie Mann: Stride piano

Steph Russell Band: Contemporary singer/songwriter

Steve Brien: Guitar/Vocal - from Bebop to Broadway

Steve Edmonds Blues Trio: One of the best blues/roots performers

Swing Company: 8 piece dance band. Renee Berger on vocals

Swing Kings: Great Dance Music: Sheriden Nelson on vocals

Terence Koo Trio with Brynn Hulls: Swing & Mainstream

Unity Jazz Band: Iconic Sydney New Orleans Band

Zach Horne Quartet: Arrangements of Australian folk songs, straight ahead jazz & originals.

Zackerbilks: Traditional jazz band from Canberra

‘You and the Night and the Music’

Dungeon Big Band (Heather Price, vocals)

Newcastle University Jazz Orchestra

Geoff Power’s Great Gatsby Jazz Orchestra

Australian Army Newcastle Big Band

New Empire Ballroom Ragtime Dance Orchestra

– Roaring 20s Theme

Hunter School of Performing Arts Stage Band

HOW to Purchase Your Tickets

Online via Civic Theatre Ticketing bit.ly/tickets-NCH-34thNewcastleJazzFestival In Person

At Civic Booking Office Hunter Street Newcastle

Pay at the Door – Card ONLY

Major Sponsors & Supporters

2023

The Newcastle and Hunter Jazz Club is the major financial supporter of the Newcastle Jazz festival

for more information

BRUCE MATHISKE JOHN LOCK

FRO M THE

EDITORS...

As the winter chill begins to fade (yes, that’s a little bit of wishful thinking), we bring you an August issue packed to the brim with stories to snuggle up on the couch with, hot chocolate in hand and a couple of hours to spare. What will you find inside this chock-a-block issue?

Prepare to be dazzled as Blanc de Blanc returns to Newcastle with their jaw-dropping cabaret spectacle. Their previous performances enthralled us, and this time promises to be even more mesmerising. Secure your tickets early to witness this thrilling blend of acrobatics, burlesque, and champagne-soaked antics.

Strut & Fret’s world-class performers, with their aweinspiring acts, have left audiences across the country in awe, and we've got exclusive interviews with the talented artists who make it all possible. Read more on page 16.

Delve into the world of romance as we sit down with the enchanting Michelle Douglas. The bestselling author shares her journey, creative process, and insights into crafting heartwarming tales that resonate with readers across the globe. This is an exclusive interview that romance enthusiasts won't want to miss on page 54.

Indulge your taste buds in a tantalising virtual journey to the stunning Margaret River region, where we unearth the hidden culinary gems of this Western Australian paradise. With its world-renowned wineries and picturesque landscapes, this destination has become a mecca for wine and food enthusiasts alike. Spend 48 hours in WA’s renowned wine region on page 36.

The stage is set for an unforgettable weekend of soulstirring melodies and toe-tapping rhythms as the 34th Annual Newcastle Jazz Festival takes centre stage towards the end of this month. Jazz enthusiasts from near and far are gearing up to immerse themselves in a world of musical brilliance, with this year's festival promising to be a harmonious celebration of classic jazz standards and contemporary improvisations, showcasing the incredible talent of local and international jazz artists.

Enjoy!

WE MAKE EVERY EFFORT POSSIBLE TO BE CORRECT, HOWEVER EVENTS DO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK INDIVIDUAL EVENTS ONLINE BEFORE PLANNING.

magical evening for all to enjoy! The Australian Romantic and Classical Orchestra will bring their unique sound and winning repertoire to City Hall for the finale of their 10th year celebrations. Be sure to secure your tickets! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.arco.org.au

■ Sam Tallent Debut Australian Tour at Newcastle Comedy Club. After spending the last decade performing more than 45 weekends of the year in North America, Asia and Europe, Sam Tallent is heading to Australia! Having released a debut novel and an Amazon Prime comedy special, fans are in for a treat as they enjoy his standup comedy that is sure to be dark and hilarious. You don’t want to miss this one-night-only show! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. eventbrite.com.au

available from Sat 5 to Sat 12 August. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. mymaitland.com.au

SATURDAY 5 AUGUST

▲ Disney’s Frozen JR. at Young People’s Theatre Newcastle. Be enchanted by Young People Theatre’s production of Disney’s Frozen Jr. It is based on the 2018 Broadway musical, which was adapted from the hit movie, and features all memorable songs from the film plus some original songs written for the Broadway production. The story explores the bond of sisters through love and acceptance, all with a little adventure, plenty of humour, and of course, magic! Get the family together and enjoy a show that will thaw even the coldest of hearts! For more info or to buy tickets, visit www.ypt.org.au

▶ Midsummer Dreams: Mendelssohn Scottish & Beethoven Eight at Newcastle City Hall. Featuring Mendelssohn and Beethoven, and their beautiful works, the Midsummer Dreams Concert will be a

■ Crimes of Passion Guided Night Tour at Maitland Gaol. Listen to Maitland Gaol come to life with stories focused on Crimes of Passion that lead to incarceration or worse. Combining impulsive and calculated stories, the tour will shockingly intrigue you. The local stories are sure to leave you checking your doors are locked. The tour will be

SUNDAY 6 AUGUST

■ Walanbaa Yulu-gi Burn the Floor at Civic Theatre Newcastle. In collaboration with indigenous star Mitch Tambo, Australian Ballroom dance company Burn the Floor has created a new dance production that is sure to impress! The inspirational journey of the show embraces indigenous culture and music, alongside classic Ballroom and Latin styles of dance. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

WEDNESDAY 9 AUGUST

■ Ascent – Sydney Dance Company at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Sydney Dance Company’s ensemble brings to life Ascent, their triple bill that is sure to delight audiences. Ascent combines contemporary classical with futuristic experimentation to create a performance full of electric movement and emotional force. Sydney Dance Company will move, excite, and activate audiences. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

DISTILLER'S FLIGHT SPIRIT & COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE AT MCGUIGAN WINES

For the spirit and cocktail enthusiasts who are looking to try something new! Sample the best of our new spirit selection and find your favourite flavour. This guided tasting

includes pours of gin, vodka, liquor creams, espresso, cosmo's and more, this is a not to be missed flavour experience!

Cost: $15 pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 – 20 people.

Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.

Credit: Robert Catto | Source: ARCO

Disney's Frozen JR. | Source: YPT Newcastle

■ Hunter Homeless Connect Day at Newcastle Showground Exhibition Centre. This annual event aims to link people with vital services such as housing and accommodation providers, legal and financial services, health and wellbeing, employment, study, and more general support. Further extras will also be on offer, including free haircuts, free food, entertainment, and sporting activities. The Homeless Connect Day encourages a sense of being within the community for those experiencing homelessness, doing it tough, or at risk of homelessness. For more information, visit www.hunterhomelessconnect.org.au

This spellbinding performance is a hit at festivals all around the world and you don’t want to miss it during its final tour. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. lakemac.com.au

THURSDAY 17 AUGUST

▲ Anh Do: The Happiest Refugee at Performance Arts Culture Cessnock. Comedian Anh Do is bringing his memoir to life in the form of a stand-up show. The theatre experience combines humour, real stories, photos, and film to retell his story in a moving and unforgettable way. With the memoir earning the Book of the Year award and sales in excess of 450 000, you can be sure it’ll be a great show! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. mypacc.com.au

FRIDAY 18 AUGUST

■ Live Music Lake Mac Presents Tubular Bells for Two at Warners Bay Theatre. As part of STEAM Week, Tubular Bells for Two will perform at Warners Bay Theatre. If you want to watch two men juggle over 20 instruments live on stage, this is for you! You’ll be amazed as the duo is rushed off their feet, dashing around the sea of instruments.

SATURDAY 19 AUGUST

▲ Whisky and Craft Spirits Festival at Bartholomew’s. Discover a world of the finest spirits in Australia and beyond. Enjoy an afternoon sampling delicious creations and amazing spirits. Alongside the many drinks on offer, there will also be a masterclass and food available. This is one event not to miss! For more information, to view the schedule or to book tickets, visit www.wacsfestival.com.au

■ One Man, Two Guvnors at Newcastle Theatre Company. Newcastle Theatre Company presents One Man, Two Guvnors, adapted from Carlo Goldoni’s ‘The Servant of Two Masters’. This fast-paced production will be nothing short of entertaining as it follows Francis Henshall and his life when he gets tangled working for two “guvnors” that can’t find out about each other. Chaos ensures with murder, love, and of course, lots of humour. Be sure to secure your tickets, you don’t want to miss this! The show will run from Sat 19 August to Sat 2 September. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. newcastletheatrecompany.com.au

SUNDAY 20 AUGUST

■ Mozart’s Clarinet at Christ Church Cathedral The Christ Church Camerata welcomes clarinettist Mitchell Berick back home from the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra to perform one of the most popular works of all time – Mozart’s sublime Clarinet Concerto.

Continued next page ▶

THURSDAY 3 AUGUST

The Launch Pad The Wickham Park Hotel

FRIDAY 4 AUGUST

The Presets Shoal Bay Country Club

Bounty Hunters The Wickham Park Hotel

SATURDAY 5 AUGUST

CIVIC Hamilton Station Hotel

Julian James & The Moonshine State with Good Corn Liquor The Stag & Hunter Hotel

Redline Club Lambton

THURSDAY 10 AUGUST

Passport to Airlie The Wickham Park Hotel

FRIDAY 11 AUGUST

Strip The Dog Hamilton Station Hotel

SATURDAY 12 AUGUST

Unwritten Law King Street Newcastle

Void Of Vision The Newcastle Hotel

SUNDAY 13 AUGUST

Resident. Hamilton Station Hotel

Phoenix Pritchard The Wickham Park Hotel

WEDNESDAY 16 AUGUST

Thomas Porter Hamilton Station Hotel

FRIDAY 18 AUGUST

Smooth The Wickham Park Hotel

SATURDAY 19 AUGUST

James Reyne Toronto Hotel

Lloyd Spiegel The Stag & Hunter Hotel

Tyne-James Organ King Street

Newcastle

FRIDAY 25 AUGUST

Amped The Wickham Park Hotel

SUNDAY 27 AUGUST

Road Hogs The Wickham Park Hotel

THURSDAY 31 AUGUST

Ash Grunwald The Stag & Hunter Hotel

Source: PACC

The Camerata will also play an effervescent symphony by the French-Creole violinist Joseph Bologne (also known as the Chevalier de Saint-Georges), a favourite of Queen Marie-Antoinette – and two American works: Samuel Barber’s intensely moving “Adagio for Strings”, and Jessica Montgomery’s “Starburst”. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.cccamerata.com.au

SUNDAY 20 AUGUST

■ Learn Gnocchi Rolling & Lunch at Saddler’s Creek Wines. Learn the art of gnocchi making with chef Jonathan Heath at the hands-on cooking class hosted by Saddler’s Creek. On arrival, enjoy a glass of bubbles while you mingle and get to know who’s in your class. After creating the gnocchi at your workstation, Jonathan will take your creations away to prepare lunch, and you can relax and indulge

in a gorgeous antipasto plate. During the experience, you’ll discover the secrets of different winemaking techniques as Scotty, a renowned wine expert, will guide you through a range of Saddler’s Creek Wines. You don’t want to miss this one-of-a-kind experience! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.saddlerscreek.com

WEDNESDAY 23 AUGUST

▼ Top Dog Film Festival at Kotara Event Cinemas. The Top Dog Film Festival showcases independent films, aimed at highlighting the loving bond between dogs and their people. The festival will screen over two hours of inspirational, heartwarming, and entertaining films from independent filmmakers. Be sure to get your tickets and enjoy the cinematic celebration honouring the bond of dogs and humans. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. topdogfilmfestival.com.au

THURSDAY 24 AUGUST

■ The Simon & Garfunkel Story at Civic Theatre Newcastle. After selling out shows in over 50 countries, The Simon & Garfunkel Story is an experience about two boys from Queens who go on to become the world’s most successful musical duo. Featuring all the classic hits, The Simon & Garfunkel Story charts the duo’s rise to success and fame throughout their six-decade friendship. This captivating show is told with warmth and feeling as the story is woven in between songs to bring to life the lyrics and melodies that shaped a generation and propelled the duo to fame. You don’t want to miss this! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

FRIDAY 25 AUGUST

▲ Newcastle Jazz Festival at Newcastle City Hall. The Newcastle Jazz Festival is returning with three days (Fri 25 to Sun 27 August) full of music across the region! With four rooms

For more information Call: 0427 586 079 or Email: glendale@nswfarmersmarket.com.au or visit glendalecityfarmersmarket.com.au or facebook.com/glendalefarmersartisans

Clarinesttist Mitchell Berick

Source: Christ Church Camerata

and three dance areas set up throughout Newcastle City Hall, you won’t be short of entertainment. Onsite catering will be available, alongside a range of cafes and restaurants within a short walk of City Hall. Enjoy a diverse range of music, under the roof! For more info or to book tickets, visit www.newcastlejazz.com.au

SATURDAY 26 AUGUST

▼ Hunter Valley Highland Games at Saltire Estate. Experience Scottish Highland Games in beautiful Wine Country to celebrate the connection between Scotland and Australia! Enjoy a day in the vines, while hearing the pipes, seeing the strength, and watching the dancing of Scotland. Be sure to get your tickets to this family-friendly event! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. huntervalleyhighlandgames.com.au

that showcases how an author and their ideas weave into six imaginative tales. Through the stories, audience members will meet many lovable characters while enjoying delightful songs that will have them up bopping along. The show will inspire all ages to find inspiration in the world around them to create wonderful stories of their own. The show is running from Sat 26 August to Sat 9 September. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.ypt.org.au

SUNDAY 27 AUGUST

▼ Jarryd Goundrey: Vanilla Slice at Newcastle Comedy Club. After serving in the army, and then working as a chef, Jarryd Goundrey is now on the road as a comedian. With over 17 million views online for his storytelling and military humour, this show is one not to miss! Having been diagnosed with a stomach condition that forced him to give up dairy, Jarryd is determined to find Australia’s best vanilla slice while on tour as it is one of his biggest loves in life. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com.au

AUGUST MARKET GUIDE

EVERY SUNDAY IN AUGUST

■ Glendale Farmers & Artisans Market at Stockland Glendale, 7am–1:30pm

EVERY SUNDAY IN AUGUST

■ Lions Club of Adamstown Market, Cnr of Brunker and Glebe Rd, Adamstown, 6:30am–12pm

SATURDAY 5 AUGUST

■ Morisset Showground Markets, at 40 Ourimbah Street, Morisset from 7:30am–1pm

SUNDAY 6, 13, 20 AUGUST

■ Newcastle Farmers Markets at Newcastle Showground, 7am–1pm

SATURDAY 19 AUGUST

■ Warners Bay Markets at Warners Bay Foreshore, 9am–2pm

■ A Pocketful of Stories

WAR OF THE WORLDS

> THURSDAY 3 – SATURDAY 5 AUGUST AT CIVIC PLAYHOUSE

On October 30th, 1938, Orsen Wells and the Mercury Theatre changed the course of live broadcasting forever. The War Of The Worlds was a radio play that shocked a nation and had many terrified listeners convinced that an actual alien invasion of Earth was taking place. Directed and narrated by Orson Welles, this original script detailing the frightening tale of an extraterrestrial takeover is now available to modern audiences to bring to life onstage and to thrill and chill audiences. Behind the scenes, Hunter Drama has assembled a visionary creative team who passionately and meticulously bring the magic of the original 1930s broadcast to the modern era. The cast consists of 14 voice actors and four dedicated foley artists. This is a show not to be missed, offering an unforgettable experience for audiences young and old! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.hunterdrama.com.au

RHYTHMS OF IRELAND

> THURSDAY 10 AUGUST

AT CIVIC THEATRE NEWCASTLE

>WEDNESDAY 16 AUGUST

AT PERFORMANCE ARTS CULTURE CESSNOCK

The Rhythms of Ireland is bringing their worldwide tour to our shores to celebrate their 15-year anniversary! The dancers will perform an innovative and inspiring production for audiences to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the experience of a spectacular evening full of traditional Irish dance, music and song enhanced by lighting, sound and amazing costumes. For more information or to book tickets for the Newcastle show, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au. To book tickets for the Cessnock show, visit www.mypacc.com.au

RUMBLE IN THE JUNGLE

> FRIDAY 11 AUGUST

AT NEWCASTLE CITY HALL

If you’re after an adrenaline-filled night, this is for you! Watch as Newcastle Pro Wrestling presents Rumble in the Jungle, a 30-wrestler rumble that will have you on the edge of your seat! Witness wrestlers and tag teams go head-tohead to showcase their skills and battle

MOZART’S CLARINET

2.30pm, Sunday, Aug 20

Christ Church Cathedral

The Finale of the Newcastle Music Festival

Mitchell Berick (clarinet) David Banney (conductor)

it out for the ultimate prize. This event is family-friendly and guarantees to be full of unforgettable fun as you watch the world-class, explosive action of the new era of pro wrestling. Rumble in the Jungle also includes championship matches and women’s wrestling, alongside the opportunity to purchase a meet-and-greet ticket to have the full experience. Enjoy a wild and unpredictable night! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. newcastleprowrestling.com.au

MOZART Clarinet Concerto

BARBER Adagio for Strings

ST GEORGE Symphony in G

JESSICA MONTGOMERY Starburst

Tickets (Online or at the Box Office) $40 (Adult), $30 (Concession) $90 (Family), $10 (School Student)

www.cccamerata.com.au

This concert presented by Mozart

Source: Hunter Drama

Source: PACC

AROMA COFFEE AND CHOCOLATE FESTIVAL

> SATURDAY 12 & SUNDAY 13 AUGUST AT CENTRAL MAITLAND

Head into Central Maitland to experience the warm aroma of freshly ground coffee beans, rich melted chocolate, and decadent dishes! There will be an array of stallholders, including baristas, chocolatiers, brewers, winemakers and more to provide the local community with all they could want. The 2023 event will welcome back the flavour stage to showcase a variety of demonstrations from chefs, business owners, and stallholders. There will also be live entertainment and a kid’s zone to keep everyone happy while warding off the winter chill! You don’t want to miss this event full of mouthwatering desserts, chocolate, coffee, and wine. For more information, visit www.maitlandaroma.com.au

LIFT OFF!

> SUNDAY 13 AUGUST AT WALLSEND LIBRARY

Start National Science Week with a bang at Wallsend Library! LIFT OFF! is a free event that is suitable for all ages and is not to be missed. The day starts off with two science shows (free shows, but tickets must be booked online) that feature demonstrations such as giant bubbles, elephant’s toothpaste, rocket science, and more from the University of Newcastle SMART team. The main event of the day is a free dropin pizza lunch where you can meet and talk to real scientists about anything and everything! A wide range of scientists will be available, ranging from biologists, food scientists, environmental sciences and more. Get the family together for a day out full of fun and science. For more information, visit www.scienceweek.net.au

ANASTASIA THE MUSICAL

> THURSDAY 17 – SATURDAY 19 AUGUST AT CIVIC THEATRE NEWCASTLE

Newcastle Grammar School presents Anastasia The Musical this month, an enchanting production that will take audiences on a journey to the past through Europe in the 1920s. Inspired by the animated film, it follows the story of Anya, her mysterious past, and her adventurous future. Anya meets two lovable conmen who help her try to discover who she really is against the backdrop of the fictional twist on the events of the downfall of the Russian monarchy. Be sure to get your tickets to experience the magic of Anastasia for yourself! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

KNOCKERS AND MOLES

> FRIDAY 25 AUGUST AT WARNERS BAY THEATRE

The Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation (HBCF) and Hunter Melanoma Foundation (HMF) are excited to announce that Knockers and Moles is back for 2023. Last year the event went to the Hunter Valley vineyards, and this year Knockers and Moles is going to the Cabaret at Warner’s Bay Theatre. Presented by Newcastle’s own spectacular Drag Queen, Timberlina, this event provides the local community with more than a fun night out, but an opportunity to raise awareness and funds for two of the region’s most prominent cancers. HBCF General Manager, Abbey McDonell said the Foundation is very excited to be joining forces with HMF again for a third year running. “Each year Knockers and Moles goes from strength to strength, not only raising a combined total of more than $56,000 for both Foundations, but also raising awareness of what HBCF and HMF do within our local community,” Ms McDonell said. It is an event not to be missed. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.crowdcatcher.co

Gabby debuts as Anastasia | Source: Newcastle Grammar School

Hunter Melanoma Foundation Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst, Timberlina and Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation General Manager, Abbey McDonell

NEWCASTLE OUTDOOR ADVENTURE & MOTORING EXPO

TASTE OF THE HUNTER VALLEY

>

FRIDAY 25 – SUNDAY 27 AUGUST AT NEWCASTLE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

Get ready for the ultimate outdoor event, where you’ll find the best in outdoor products and advice. The Newcastle Outdoor Adventure and Motoring Expo is sure to be an unforgettable experience with everything from 4x4 vehicles, fishing gear, boating equipment and so much more. The Entertainment Centre will come alive over three action-packed days, so don’t miss your chance to explore all the products and services on offer in one location. There are also major prizes up for grabs across the weekend, so plan your visit and see why this event is the region’s biggest of its kind. Tickets will be available at the gate by credit card and eftpos. For more information, visit www.newexpo.com.au

> SATURDAY 26 AUGUST AT THE STATION

If you’re after the full Hunter Valley experience without travelling, this event is for you! Taste of the Hunter Valley is the perfect opportunity to experience the best of the Hunter Valley in one location. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere and relax with award-winning wines, beers, spirits, foods, and artisan products. Chat to local producers and use the opportunity to sample products before purchasing your favourite bottles, treats, and gems. With live entertainment and kid’s activities on offer, it is going to be a great family day! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.tothv.com

THE SUNSHINE CLUB

> TUESDAY 29 AUGUST AT PERFORMANCE ARTS CULTURE CESSNOCK

Written by Wesley Enoch AM, an acclaimed creative force in Australian theatre, The Sunshine Club tells the story of Frank Doyle, an Aboriginal serviceman who has returned from WW2. Knowing the wider world has changed, but attitudes in Brisbane have

As Fresh As It Gets

not. Frank opens The Sunshine Club, where anyone of any race can meet and dance. Here he hopes to dance in step with Rose, the girl of his dreams as love intertwines with dancing. Enjoy a thought-provoking, vibrant, and joyful show of theatre and music. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.mypacc.com.au

The Sunshine Club will also perform at Civic Theatre Newcastle on Thursday 31 August. To book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

It’s King Prawn Season, Pop the Champa gne!

Experience the FUN & MAYHEM of Blanc de Blanc Encore

WORDS LIANE MORRIS | FEATURES WRITER

IMAGES CARLITA SARI PHOTO

SOURCE: STRUT & FRET

Newcastle’s love affair with the famous Spiegeltent is set to continue this September when Strut & Fret’s ever popular Blanc de Blanc Encore returns as part of the City of Newcastle’s New Annual Festival. Hot from return seasons in Sydney and Darwin, there is no better way to herald in Spring than a champagne frolic with sexy, awe-inspiring antics in Civic Park. Packed with new surprises and new local and international artists, it’s a hedonistic, glamorous

and extravagant world of vintage French flair, risqué humour, spectacular aerials, comedy and big dance numbers that will have you dancing in your seat and gasping for more.

The original Blanc de Blanc was staged in Civic Park in 2018, with the revised production, Blanc de Blanc Encore, wowing Novocastrians in 2022 after being cancelled due to Covid in 2019. Earlier this year, in March, local audiences lined up to see the Strut & Fret production of The Party, which has a more raucous, in-yourface, debaucherous feel.

According to Scott Maidment, Director and Producer, Blanc de Blanc Encore is

“more sophisticated than The Party, much more elegant. It’s like drinking champagne. At the beginning of the evening, it’s smooth, celebratory and elegant. As the evening goes on, it becomes more intoxicating, the bubbles go to your head, and you end up dancing on the tables full of sparkling joy. It has a completely different energy – less about the raunch factor and much more high-class!”

For those that have seen Blanc de Blanc Encore before, don’t let that stop you from coming again – introduce your friends to the Spiegeltent magic and re-experience the fun and mayhem that you know is on offer. Regular

attendees of Strut & Fret productions will know that no show is ever the same.

Performed almost in the round with no fourth wall, the experience enables audience members to see the faces, reactions and delight of those around them and in front of them, adding to the party-like atmosphere. Performers roam throughout the crowd, and the action is up close and personal.

“When you go to see something like Cirque de Soleil, the show never alters. It never changes. It is the same show every night, regardless of the audience’s reaction. At Blanc de Blanc Encore, the performers are so highly skilled that they can alter their performances depending on the audience’s reaction and engagement. It is fully interactive and immersive as an experience for our audiences.”

The ability to alter the performance depending on the audience’s reaction is due to the incredible talent and professionalism of the artists performing. With a cast that hails from all around the world and widely regarded as the best in the industry, Strut & Fret performers are quite simply sensational.

“We work with our cast to develop the acts that make it into the show. We go into rehearsal before each season starts and workshop the apparatus of each of the artists into the show. Our artists are like family; we grow and flex together, meaning our productions remain fresh and unique.

“We’re excited this year to have Misha (Mykhailo Makarov) joining the cast from Ukraine—one of the most flexible men in the world - insanely boneless. Specialising in hip hop, popping, and a technique known as "bone breaking", Misha pushes his body to the edge in every performance. His unusual skillset is in demand worldwide, with significant performances throughout Asia and Europe. We’re fortunate to have him. He has a considerable list of awards and accolades, including first place in the World of Dance Ukraine 2019 Awards, Winner of the Juste Deboute World Final in Paris 2018, and Experimental Champion of Juste Deboute 2017. Mykhailo also grabbed the Golden buzzer on Ukraine‘s Got Talent (2021) and was a finalist on Ukraine Talent (2022).

“He originally joined Strut just before Covid and ended up being stuck in Australia. Then when he eventually got back, the war had broken out. If he had stayed, he would have been forced into the military. We got him into a show in Paris on a Special Talent Visa. We're thrilled to have him back. He’s a member of our family now. He’s an extraordinary contortionist who can virtually turn his head almost 180 degrees behind himself! Newcastle audiences will love him.”

Joining Misha on stage this season is Jess Mews, one of only two Aussies in the cast, the other being Elke Uhd. These two Western Australian artists grew up near each other outside of Perth and even share a birth date. Despite performing at the same festivals as they grew up, this is their first performance on stage together.

“We were just young kids doing circus festivals and learning our craft,” said Jess.

“We saw each other multiple times per year, but our careers took us in different directions, and now it’s wonderful to perform together for the first time.”

Jess was a shy girl growing up who tried all the usual pursuits like soccer, gymnastics and the like before her mother encouraged her to try circus skills. She began at WA Circus School in Fremantle when she was five years old, her mum enrolling her “because I couldn’t walk in a straight line, and I was terrible at making friends”.

After starting with the circus fundamentals of juggling and acrobats, she found her love of hula hoops when she was 12 years old and left home when she was 15 to join The Flying Fruit Fly Circus in Albury Wodonga. By seventeen years old, Jess was representing Australia at the International Circus Festival in Asia.

“I loved it so much; I knew it was where I had to be. I feel safe in the circus community – it’s so inclusive. No one could understand why my mother allowed me to run away from home to join the circus, but she let me follow my passion, and I’ve never looked back. I was living in an apartment on my own at the age of 16. I didn’t even know how to boil an egg. I developed a lot of resilience, and the circus community is so supportive. It’s everything to me. I’ve been able to be myself and develop my own creative pathway.”

Jess has been with Strut & Fret for seven years now after her sheer tenacity and persistence secured her place. She spins up to 100 hula hoops at a time and has performed across Australia, Europe and Canada with her fierce, memorable and sexy persona becoming famous on the stages of Circus Oz, Short Round Productions, 7 Fingers and, of course, Strut & Fret. She believes that Australian circus artists have something that others around the world don’t have.

“There’s something a bit different about Australian performers when you compare them to international artists. We can laugh at ourselves; there’s a twinkle in our eyes. You don’t get that kind of larrikin charisma or personality elsewhere. And we love working with the audience – high energy, big tricks. Sit in the front row at your own risk! I’m looking forward to Newcastle. We all love it there. It reminds me of home with its beautiful beaches and relaxed coastal vibe.”

Her fellow West Australian Elke Uhd is more famous in Germany than she is in Australia and has spent years based in Berlin and appearing on German and Swiss variety shows. A graduate of The National Institute of Arts (NICA) in 2015, she specialises in Dance Trapeze, Cyr Wheel, and Aerial Tube and has performed internationally with Palazzo, La Clique, Circus Oz, and of course, Strut & Fret. Currently performing at the Montreal Circus Festival, Elke has developed a brand-new act for the show.

Many of the Strut & Fret performers and creative team have been together since the original inception of the Spiegeltent shows. There have been over 450 performances of Blanc de Blanc Encore so far. Choreography is by Kevin Maher, who is based in LA but travels to Australia and has worked with Madonna, Nicky Menage and Justin Bieber, to name just a few. Set and lighting design is by UK-based Philip Gladwell, who has worked for The Royal Shakespeare Company, The English National Opera and The National Theatre, amongst many others. The gorgeous vintage costumes are designed by James Browne, one of Australia’s most successful and prolific costume and set designers for theatre, film and events. They are a highlight of the production and are based on 1920s showgirls. There are many costume

changes throughout the show, with sometimes only 30 seconds to make the change.

Setting the scene for this opulent extravaganza is the Spiegeltent itself, a onehundred-year-old Dutch mirror tent that has become a familiar sight in Civic Park. With its stained glass, warm timbers, rich velvet and old-world charm reminiscent of European cabaret, it’s as much a part of the show as the performance. Stepping into the Spiegeltent is like transporting yourself across time and space into a magical world that takes you out of your ordinary life for just a few hours. Audience members are fully immersed in a place where the sparkles and bubbles, the beauty and the joy and the sheer thrill of the extraordinary guarantee an unforgettable night that each and every person is a part of.

The Spiegeltent attracts several Novocastrian crew members who are keen to be contracted each time the vintage tent needs to be erected. Just like a giant Meccano set, there are unbelievably no tools, no screws, no nails, no bolts and no machinery required. Originally all the pieces could be lifted by one person, and today it takes less than a dozen people to erect the tent.

“There is this wonderful sense of romantic achievement that people feel when they are a part of this traditional process,” said Scott. “It’s a beautiful heritage piece that people love to work on. It does take a lot of maintenance, though. There is always something being worked on and repaired.”

No expense is spared, and as with all Strut & Fret shows, there are very high-quality

production values. The tent concept may remind audiences of a circus, but that’s where the comparison ends because the tent is so unique, extravagant, and romantic. Cabaret and variety are reminiscent of burlesque and fringe shows, but these shows sit well above that level of performance and are not burlesque. The content may be adults only, but it’s risqué, not rude, and the skill of the artists is world-class.

“Our shows have the energy and fun vibes of fringe, but it’s like fringe on steroids,” said Scott.

“The skill and talent of our performers, my creative team and our high production values set it way above that level, and it’s a show that can be seen again and again, with something new to enjoy every time you see it.”

Believe the hype because this five-star champagne cabaret is full of the glitzy,

glamorous and extravagant world of vintage French flair, risqué humour, spectacular aerials, sparkling comedy and big dance numbers that we’ve all come to expect from Strut & Fret. Re-immerse yourself in this intoxicating Gatsbyesque ride that astonishes and delights with its world-renowned brand of opulent, cheeky, edge-of-your-seat theatre. The season runs from Friday, September 22 to Sunday, October 22, with tickets available from the Civic Theatre or Moshtix, starting at $74.93 for preview tickets.

The show is suitable for mature 18+ audiences only and is 115 minutes duration, including interval. It comes with a content and sensory warning. Veteran Blanc de Blanc Encore audience members know that wearing white is encouraged, and look out for the onetonne of ethically sourced white feathers!

"IT’S LIKE DRINKING CHAMPAGNE. AT THE BEGINNING OF THE EVENING, IT’S SMOOTH, CELEBRATORY AND ELEGANT. AS THE EVENING GOES ON, IT BECOMES MORE INTOXICATING..."

A Captivating Exploration of Female Existence

HER Productions is a Newcastle-based theatre and production company established in 2021 by co-founding artistic directors Charlotte De Wit and Marigold Pazar.

As a very new company starting on its own journey of self-discovery, HER Productions' mission is to bring professional, beautifully crafted, original work to Newcastle and the wider community and to offer equal opportunities for female-identifying and underrepresented individuals in the performing and creative arts industry.

In only their second production, HER Productions will present LOW-LEVEL PANIC from 27 September until 7 October at Catapult Dance Hub in what promises to be a thoughtprovoking and surprisingly funny play by Clare McIntyre.

After a sell-out season of their debut production of Uncle Vanya, HER Productions presents this highly anticipated production offering a glimpse into the lives of three

complex female characters within the intimate confines of a share-house bathroom.

With a profound exploration of female existence in a hypersexualised and maledominated world, LOW-LEVEL PANIC promises to captivate audiences with its raw honesty and poignant storytelling.

“Although this play premiered in 1988, the themes are still profoundly significant,” said CoArtistic Director Charlotte De Wit.

“We hope the audience leaves asking questions about society's expectations and the impact on their own identity. Our goal always as a company is to create work that provokes conversations and leaves a lasting impact.”

“Clare McIntyre’s exceptional writing and innovative portrayal of the young female condition provides us with a play we feel very honoured and excited to present as the company’s second production,” said actor Marigold Pazar.

Directed by Maike Strichow, starring Marigold Pazar, Charlotte De Wit and Megan Kennedy, LOW-LEVEL PANIC is an emotionally charged production that explores themes of identity, friendship dynamics, and societal expectations. The play contains adult content, including nudity, strong language, and adult themes, and is intended for audiences aged 18 and above.

2023 artist line up TEX PERKINS AND THE FAT RUBBER BAND

WENDY MATTHEWS & GRACE KNIGHT – GRACELAND

BROOKE MCCLYMONT & ADAM ECKERSLEY

RAY BEADLE – STAX OF BLUES

FELICITY URQUHART & JOSH CUNNINGHAM

FRANK SULTANA  ROSHANI

LITTLE QUIRKS  HUSSY HICKS

MITCH KING  ROUND MOUNTAIN GIRLS

GRACE AND HUGH  MINOR GOLD (TRACY MCNEIL & DAN PARSONS)

BURGER JOINT  LADY LYON

THE WEEPING WILLOWS

HUDSON ROSE  WINGSONG CHOIR

Wingham Music Festival Lineup 2023

The town of Wingham on the NSW Mid Coast will once again welcome some of the best in Aussie music for the annual threeday music festival from Friday, 13 October to Sunday, 15 October. Festival organisers are proud to announce the performance schedule for 2023:

Friday 13 October

The 2023 festival will open with performances from Wingsong Choir, Groove Collection, Trapps and Galleri taking to the stage on day one before Frank Sultana and Wendy Matthews & Grace Knight perform the songs from Paul Simons’ Graceland.

Saturday 14 October

TICKETS

DAN HOPKINS & THE GENEROUS FEW

GALLERI  THE GROOVE COLLECTIVE

BUREAU DAZE  TRAPPS JIM BIRD  LOCOMOTIVE

Tex Perkins and The Fat Rubber Band will headline Saturday night. Other artists on stage on Saturday include Felicity Urquhart with Josh Cunningham, Hussy Hicks, Round Mountain Girls, Roshani, Burger Joint, Locomotive, Hudson Rose and Dan Hopkins and the Generous Few.

Sunday 15 October

The Weeping Willows, Mitch King, Lady Lyon, Grace and Hugh, Tracey McNeill + Dan Parsons and Little Quirks will entertain on the final day before Brooke McClymont and

“We are very excited to secure such incredible artists for the 2023 Wingham Music Festival. Visitors from across Australia come to Wingham every year to hear some great music, and 2023 will be one of the biggest years yet,” said Festival Coordinator Donna Ballard.

“Accommodation is booking up fast so we encourage people to book in Taree and further afield, where we can arrange shuttle buses for transport.”

Since its inception in 2007, the Festival has become a much-loved annual event in the community calendar. This year's festival is returning to the Wingham Showground, with onsite camping being the optimum choice for those with caravans and motor homes to enjoy the three brilliant days under the big top.

Alongside the plethora of live music, the festival also features artisans showcasing their handmade wares and artworks, workshops are held across the weekend and visitors enjoy the best in food and delicacies from local businesses from the Mid Coast NSW region. Tickets are on sale now at www.akoostikthree. oztix.com.au.

Adam Eckersley, followed by Ray Beadle to close the 2023 festival.

Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley | Source: Wingham Music Festival READ

Dungog

Grab a cuppa at the Dungog Tea Party

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

Nestled amidst the picturesque Williams River Valley is the charming historical town of Dungog. Easily accessed by train or car, there is plenty to do for visitors, and from Tuesday, 5 to Sunday, 10 September, the town invites everyone to the Dungog Tea Party as a fabulous, fun and free way to celebrate the return of Spring.

OPEN DAILY 10am - 4pm FREE ENTRY

Now in its third year, the event aims to encourage visitation to the town and involves local businesses, the community and the schools. Erika Seck, Festival Secretary, says the idea for the event sprung from the closure of the long-running Morpeth Tea Rooms annual exhibition in 2017.

“We were looking for ways to encourage people to stay in the town, not just drive through it,” said Erika.

“We tend to be an ‘arty farty’ town and thought the tea party concept would work well. Cafes will offer high teas; pubs will run special events such as cocktail parties; there’ll be market stalls, tea tastings, and workshops in complementary crafts such as knitting.”

Pivotal to the event are the Tea Cosy Challenge and the Trivet Challenge, which are still open for entries until August 13. Tea Cosy categories to enter include Treasured Memories, High Tea, Australian Flora, Fauna and more, and Trivet categories include timber, metal, ceramic, fabric and recycled. Winners receive cash prizes.

Held at the historic James Theatre - the oldest purpose-built cinema still operating in Australia, there will be an exhibition of all things tea, including the competition tea cosies and trivets. The event's opening will take place on Tuesday at 10.30am where the winners of each category are announced and awarded. A morning tea hosted by Dungog High School will be served.

Visitors throughout the week can tour the exhibition, participate in special events such as high teas and workshops, wander the heritage main street, browse the eclectic shops and galleries, and explore the museum. With easy, flat walking, plentiful parking and the train station right in town, it’s an affordable, quirky day out. Keep up to date with the happenings at www.dungogteaparty.com.au or the Facebook page.

Come and see the showcase of award winning tea cosies all chasing “Tea Cosy of the Year”!

TURNS BACK TIME

PERFORMING THE HITS OF...

PLUS

A Slight Problem For One Man, Two Guvnors!

Directed by Tracey Owens and Jo Cooper, the talented cast of ‘One Man, Two Guvnors’ features Luke Aspinall, Rory Pollock, Katie Blaxland, Brian Wark, Jarrah Webster, Ronan Barrett, Derek Fisher, Deepika Yerrakalva, John Stericker, Austin Cooper, Georgi Lamond, Michael Smythe and Kirsty Horton.

The season plays from 19 August until 2 September, with evening performances commencing at 8 pm. Matinee performances begin at 2 pm on Sunday, 20 August, Saturday, 26 August and Sunday, 27 August.

Purchase your tickets online at www.newcastletheatrecompany. com.au or by phoning the theatre on 4952 4958 during office hours, between 3 pm and 6 pm, Monday to Friday.

Can Francis stop his two guvnors from finding out about each other, keep both his jobs and get a decent meal? Come along and find out!

Graham Toole singing the hits of Kenny Rogers Glen Campbell

“Ashleigh has one of the finest, strongest voices I have heard” Marcia Hines

You got to concentrate with two guvnors! (Pictured: Rory Pollock, Luke Aspinall and Katie Blaxland. Photo: Joerg Lehmann)

Fall in Love with…Billy Elliott

Newcastle is set to don ballet shoes and tutus this October as one of this century’s most thrilling pieces of musical theatre comes to town for the first time.

Billy Elliot The Musical was a West End and Broadway phenomenon, charming audiences and critics alike, with the New York Post declaring it “THE BEST SHOW YOU WILL EVER SEE!”.

More than 12 million people across five different continents have fallen in love with this masterpiece.

Featuring iconic music by the legendary Elton John, Billy Elliot The Musical is a coming-of-age story of the motherless boy who begins taking ballet lessons, only to discover an entirely new world awaiting him.

Set in a northern English town during the miners’ strike of 1984/5, the show follows Billy’s journey from the boxing ring to ballet class, where he uncovers a passion for dance which unites his family, inspires his community and changes his life forever. Brought to life by the award-winning creative team behind the smash hit film, it is an extraordinary theatrical experience.

Billy Elliot The Musical will make its Newcastle debut at the magnificent Civic Theatre on 7 October. Brought to town by the producers of 2022’s musical theatre

event of the year, Jersey Boys, the Very Popular Theatre Company is one of only four companies granted a licence to stage this show outside of an Australian capital city.

A stellar cast has been assembled, including Australian Musical Theatre leading light, Chloe Dallimore, as the dance teacher, Mrs Wilkinson, starring alongside a host of Newcastle Theatre luminaries, including Danny Folpp, Marty Worrall and Felicity Biggins.

Up-and-coming triple threats Lewis Nicholson and Fergus Paterson have been double-cast in the titular role of Billy Elliot, with Conway Oakhill-Saarenpaa and Charlie Murphy playing Billy’s best friend, Michael. Charlie recently starred on the West End as Michael Banks in Mary Poppins.

Showcasing the very best of Dance and Drama on offer in Newcastle, the Very Popular Theatre Company is collaborating with the National College of Dance to train the four young leads.

Billy Elliot The Musical will play for a strictly limited threeweek season at the Civic Theatre from 7 October 2023. Tickets are available from the Civic Theatre ticket office, online at www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au or phone 02 4929 1977.

Credit: Peter Stoop Photography

THE PLACE TO BE…

Weekends at Wallsend

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

Wallsend is fast becoming the place to be on weekends. Home to the Handmade Markets held on the first Saturday of every month, and the Wallsend Op Shop Trail, run by the Purple Card Project, there is a strong emphasis on community, sustainability, and social inclusiveness.

Bianca Bartlett, board member of the Wallsend Town Business Association, co-founder of the Purple Card Project and coordinator of the Handmade Markets, is a Wallsend local who loves her community.

“Our markets are quite different to others because they are free for stall holders, and they’re not as large and intimidating,” said Bianca.

“They are subsidised by the Wallsend Town Business Association, which means that if you’re just starting out with a product to sell, there’s minimal risk in testing the market. It not only builds confidence for stall holders, but it means that artisans can safely experiment – which means that a lot of what you can buy at our markets is fresh and unique. You can purchase handcrafted leather handbags, jewellery, resin designs, artworks and lots more.

“In addition, we usually run some kind of workshop at the markets. We’ve had a ‘This is Not Waste’ workshop where people have learnt how to weave textiles destined for landfill in crafts, and last month we had a signing workshop for kids aged 2 to 8. In August, we’ll run an Art Mania Studio Pop-Up where people can create art for free.

Wallsend is the go-to destination for op shopping with an interactive self-guided walking trail available online at www. purplecardproject.org/wallsendop-shop-trail and guided events held every two months.

“The Wallsend Op Shop Trail is part of the Purple Card Project that aims to enable communities to create activities that have a positive environmental impact and include social connectivity,” says Bianca.

“The trail encourages people to reduce, reuse, and recycle, to prevent textiles from ending up in landfill. Our op shops also support a variety of excellent social causes and provide valuable volunteer opportunities for our community.”

If you have a product to sell or a workshop to run, expressions of interest are always welcome at www.tinyurl.com/wowwallsend.

Your time starts now

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NORTHSTARS GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS

You may not know that while the Newcastle Northstars compete at the highest level of ice hockey in Australia, all the players still work daily outside of the sport. Several players within the Northstars run their own businesses, and we’d love to share their details with you to support them.

grow and develop as ice hockey players and strong leaders within their communities all around the country.”

“We run a lot of camps and clinics and personal sessions in the mornings, and we work with all the clubs throughout the season. This July, we had one of our bigger camps in Newcastle, with a fourday Hockey Days camp, and we also had one being held in Perth, so we have grown to be coast to coast now.”

“We are a local smash repair business that works for all major insurance companies in the area. We range from doing restoration work, rust repairs and insurance claims.”

“The flexibility and freedom of working for myself is great, and I am motivated and driven to help our clients when things are hard for them.”

“We are really passionate about growing hockey in the country, and we see many fans that come to games join our Learn to Play program and become hockey players, and we just can’t get enough of it,” says Dave.

“Players can progress from our skate sessions and Learn to Play into our Newcastle Ice Hockey League (NIHL), where they can develop further, play for our representative club, and go further to represent the state or the world.”

YOUR NEW LOCAL!

“This year is our 10th anniversary of starting Northstars Academy. Over that time, it has become the National Sport Academy, and I am passionate about helping players

“Dave and I wanted to focus on our local community with Hockey MD and build our development programs from the juniors up. The growth within our local leagues is phenomenal, and it comes from knowing what we loved about playing hockey locally, and recreationally we have used that experience to give the players coming into the sport the best possible experience in learning the sport and hopefully stay in hockey for life,” adds Matt.

For more information, visit the business’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

#14 Matt Price Dangar Body Works

#5 John F. Kennedy NSA Hockey

#3 Mat Lindsay & Assistant GM Dave Ferrari – Hockey MD

Designing the Future at Macquarie College

Macquarie College and Stanford University forge a new, design-thinking-based approach to learning.

In July, Macquarie College hosted fifteen schools from across Australia for their inaugural Design Thinking workshop, facilitated by the faculty of Stanford’s d.school. This workshop created a fantastic opportunity and platform for educators across Australia to accelerate innovation at a local level and receive professional training from world-leading experts. Participants were able to enjoy fresh and delicious food each day from MC Eats, the Macquarie College plant-based, sustainable canteen which has been developed using design thinking principles over the past two years and recently received kudos from Finnish

education thought leader Professor Pasi Sahlberg.

As part of an expanding network of future-focused schools, Macquarie College is committed not only to resourcing its own staff and students but also education as a whole. Their vision includes opening a purpose-built design institute in late 2024 to serve as an innovation hub with student outcomes and opportunities at the centre.

“Together, we are reimagining the future of learning and education in Australia,” says Deputy Principal Tonia Bentley.

Since 2019, Macquarie College has partnered with Stanford University's d.school to implement design thinking methodology across all key learning areas within their

school. Backed by over 30 years of research, the faculty from Stanford has established a clear correlation between design thinking and academic excellence.

The design thinking methodology is a human-centered problem-solving approach that empowers teachers and students to challenge assumptions, confront challenges, and innovate solutions. By challenging, probing and reframing the problem statement at hand, design thinking offers a unique opportunity to unearth creative solutions and reshape the world we live in and the experiences of those around us.

Principal Rohan Deanshaw of Macquarie College believes that the partnership with Stanford's d.school is instrumental in shaping the future of the students and ensuring their success in a rapidly changing world. He emphasises that the aim is to equip students with skills and dispositions that are necessary for success in an emerging community and workplace environment, both locally and globally.

Macquarie College aims to provide students from Preschool right through to Year 12 with locally relevant and globally significant learning programs that equip them with the necessary skills and dispositions to succeed in the communities and workplaces of the future.

Louise Whitaker, Design Thinking Leader at MC; Rohan Deanshaw, Principal at MC; Tonia Bentley, Deputy Principal MC; Laura McBain, Stanford d.school; David Runge, Future Schools; Louie Montoya, Stanford d.school.

E A T D rin k

48 Hours in Margaret River

A Taste of Western Australia's Wine Country

WORDS DI VON ESSEN

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Western Australia, the Margaret River region is a paradise for wine enthusiasts, food lovers –and of course, surfers (which we are not)! With its stunning vineyards, pristine beaches, and charming towns, it's no wonder this destination has become a must-visit for travellers seeking a taste of the good life. Join us on this whirlwind 48-hour adventure that saw four old friends explore the food and wine highlights of Margaret River, from luxurious accommodations to exquisite dining experiences and, of course, unforgettable tastings.

Our journey began in Perth (following a latenight flight from Sydney), where we refuelled before embarking on the scenic drive south towards the Margaret River region. The threehour drive took us through rolling hills, verdant forests, quaint towns and expansive farmland.

Checking in at Eight Willows Retreat (our chosen accommodation due to its proximity to the vineyards), we were greeted by the estate's impressive entry and tranquil beauty. Set amidst 30 acres of native bushland, the retreat offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, and our modern, wellappointed cottage provided all the comforts. With spacious rooms, a cosy gas fireplace (and

reverse cycle air conditioning), the cottages are fully self-contained with kitchens decked out with Miele appliances, no less.

We could quite easily have put up our feet and relaxed in front of the fire, but with no intention of cooking, an empty fridge and only 48 hours to check out the area, we decided to venture into the town centre instead.

This charming township of Margaret River is about 20 minutes from Eight Willows and serves as the vibrant heart of the region, offering a delightful blend of eclectic shops, fashion boutiques, galleries showcasing local artisans and a range of restaurants promising the gastronomic delights we were seeking!

We stop in at Charcuterie Margaret River to pick up some supplies and find a vast selection of cheeses, meats and other goodies, including a collection of uniquely Aussie products made from crocodile, kangaroo, emu, wild boar and buffalo, as well as a considerable range of venison products.

Our next stop is the Margaret River Distilling Company, which we’ve been told (at the local Visitor Information Centre) is a must for spirits enthusiasts seeking a taste of the region's finest gin and whisky.

Stepping into the tasting room, we are greeted by the inviting aroma of botanicals and oak barrels and seated on plush leather

couches with a tasting menu that could have kept us there for a full day (and likely resulted in us being carried out). Guided by knowledgeable staff, we embark on a journey of discovery, learning about the intricate distillation process and the carefully selected ingredients that create their signature spirits. We also discovered that the area is one of only 34 biodiversity hotspots in the World, which is reflected in every spirit they craft.

The gin tasting offers a range of handcrafted Giniversty Gins, each infused with locally sourced botanicals, allowing us to explore a medley of flavours and aromas. Moving on to the range of Limeburners Whisky, we delve into the world of aged spirits, appreciating the rich complexity and smoothness that Margaret River Distilling Company's whiskies are known for. Each tasting included a paired ‘morsel’, which served to amplify the spirits' qualities. Unable to choose between gin and whisky (a first-world problem I know), I purchase a bottle described as a marriage between Giniversity and the award-winning Limeburners Single Malt Whisky. This gin has spent over 12 months soaking up the juicy goodness of a Limeburners American Oak barrel, imparting a stunning golden hue and gentle caramelised oak and vanilla flavours. Difficult to tell if it’s a whisky or a Gin on the palette, but hugely enjoyable neat.

Source: Fermoy Estate

As evening falls, the town comes alive with an enticing array of restaurants, cafes, and wine bars, offering diverse cuisines and showcasing the region's acclaimed wines. Whether it's enjoying a leisurely meal at a sidewalk cafe or sipping a glass of local wine while overlooking the river, the township of Margaret River invites us to slow down, savour the moment, and immerse ourselves in its unique blend of culture, nature, and culinary delights.

The first of which is morries for an early dinner. A lively restaurant in the heart of Margaret River town, the vibrant atmosphere and diverse menu make it a favourite among locals and visitors. Reputed to be more of an institution than a restaurant, we were lucky to nab a table in an almost full venue (at 6pm on a Thursday!)

The tapas-style dishes are meant to be enjoyed together, which proves to be quite

a challenge, given that each item we sampled was incredibly moreish. Think Shark Bay Prawns (with amarillo, celeriac remoulade and charred spring onion) or Beef Cheek (with polenta, jus and confit onion). My favourite was the Char-Grilled Cabbage – I’d never been a fan of cabbage but find myself a new fan!

We awake the next day refreshed (albeit hungover) and eager to explore the renowned wineries of the Margaret River. Our first stop is Fermoy Estate

Fermoy is one of the original established vineyards of the Margaret River region. It is owned by Perth brothers Aaron and John Young and is known for its elegant wines, particularly Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. In fact, the Fermoy Cab Sav was the only Aussie wine served at the wedding of Frederik, Crown Prince of Denmark, to Princess Mary – so it’s a reputation that’s been well-earned.

Next on our itinerary is Evans & Tate, another of Margaret River's pioneering wineries. Established in 1974, it has played a significant role in shaping the region's winemaking industry. Here, we delve deeper into the art of wine tasting, guided by Cellar Door Manager Sonja, who shared insights into the region's terroir and winemaking philosophies while simultaneously tailoring an extensive wine tasting to four very different palettes. ▶

AN I D Y LLIC DES T I N A T I ON HIDE A W A Y LIK E NO OTHER AWAITS:

e Lodge at Mount Rivers.

With 200 acres of private sprawling countryside and 3.5 kilometres of exclusive Paterson River frontage, e Lodge at Mount Rivers is located just a short drive from the village of Gresford and just 45 minutes from Hunter Valley vineyards. Elegantly decorated, e Lodge features 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, accommodating up to sixteen guests. is stunningly presented property boasts a beautiful swimming pool, spectacular landscaping, air conditioning, numerous replaces, an undercover alfresco area, wi and parking.

Tasting at Margaret River Distilling Co

As we sip on the delicate flavours and admire the vine-covered landscape, it's clear why this region has gained international acclaim for its wines.

On the second evening, we head to Margaret River Tuck Shop for a relaxed dining experience perfectly suited to wornout wine tasters! With its centrally located rustic fireplace, this casual yet sophisticated eatery showcases the best of Margaret River's produce, focusing on seasonal and sustainable ingredients. Tonight I was pleased not to have to share, and I greedily guarded my Margaret River Wagyu Beef (with native bush tomato mojo, chimichurri, hand-crushed duck fat potatoes, chipotle aioli, native dukkah). Side note – the duck fat potatoes were to die for.

No visit to Margaret River is complete without experiencing Vasse Felix, the oldest winery in the region, so the drive back to Perth took a detour in this direction. With its stunning vineyard views and contemporary cellar door, Vasse Felix is a true gem. We immersed ourselves in a comprehensive wine tasting that started with bubbles and ended with two wine club memberships and a couple dozen wines arriving in Newcastle a week later…. But that’s a whole other story.

While the tasting itself was fabulous, there is so much more to explore at Vasse Felix. The original winery has been converted into an Art Gallery showcasing a seasonal program of exhibitions from the Holmes à Court Collection, while The Vault provided a fascinating time capsule of Margaret River wine history, including every vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon ever made at Vasse Felix, alongside a historical exhibition that traces the history of the winery. My only regret was leaving before the restaurant opened.

As our 48 hours in Margaret River drew to a close, we spent the drive back to Perth reflecting on the incredible experiences we'd enjoyed in this idyllic corner of Western Australia. This slice of paradise genuinely lived up to its reputation as one of the world's most captivating modern wine destinations. The biggest takeaway – 48 hours is nowhere near enough time to explore this area and taste all it offers. Margaret River – we’ll be back!

(Note – this travel was unsponsored and undertaken at the expense of the writer).

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A safari is one of the best eyeopening, rewarding, inspirational and refreshing vacations you can take, but planning the perfect safari experience can be challenging. There is no 'one safari fits all', and there are so many

nuances to Southern Africa and East Africa that can affect safari planning and safari success; the weather, the migratory patterns of species, the placing of lodges, natural events, and that's before we even begin to mention the logistics on the ground. Safari camps in Africa range from $300 to over $3,000 per person per night, and there is a vast difference in the activities on offer.

Take advice from well-worn safari professionals, people who have lived the safari life and are well-versed in planning and managing safaris. Somebody who can share vital tips when planning for an African safari and, of course, the best way to do a safari and create a seamless safari itinerary while maximising all the major attractions you'd expect in Africa.

Having a real-life person to talk to and to walk you through each step is a great comfort and exciting part of the process. And that's where Safari Guru comes in. Scan the QR code to check out their Tips for Booking a Safari today. ▶

Vasse Felix Cellar Door | Source: Vasse Felix

A Growing Understanding Triumphs at 2023 Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards

A Growing Understanding Speech Pathology celebrated an extraordinary achievement at the 2023 Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards, securing victories in three categories: Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion, Outstanding Business Leader, and the coveted Business of the Year.

Reflecting on the successes, Practice Director Lauren Haskins expressed immense pride in the team's continuous recognition:

“Since our humble beginnings as a Start-Up Superstar in 2018, our focus has always been on delivering high-quality speech therapy services," said Lauren.

"We are honoured and privileged to accept these awards. Through the provision of industry-leading care, we truly feel we are making a shift in not only the speech pathology profession but the paediatric allied health space, and this is because of our amazing team - our purple family of dedicated and inspired humans.”

A Growing Understanding is a leading private speech pathology service catering to children and adolescents with communication and feeding difficulties in the Lake Macquarie, Newcastle, and Maitland regions.

The principle of 'care' is at the heart of the service and has enabled the creation of a meaningful workplace that makes A Growing Understanding more than just a private practice - it's a community where everyone is encouraged to grow.

“As our business continues to grow and our team collectively strives for industry-leading success, we are continuously on the lookout for value-aligned humans to join us in our mission and provide exceptional speech pathology services for children and their families”, explained Lauren.

This year’s awards highlight A Growing Understanding’s core mission of creating an environment conducive to growth for all involved - children, families, community, and team members. One key achievement is their significant strides in Diversity and Inclusion:

"We are dedicated to providing genuine and authentic services that are accessible and representative of the diverse communities we serve. Our initiatives, from working towards the Rainbow Tick of Approval to establishing Translating and Interpreting Services, exemplify our commitment to an inclusive environment that values and respects individual experiences," shared Lauren.

Lauren Haskins' unwavering leadership was also celebrated with the Outstanding Business Leader award. Her contribution extends beyond A Growing Understanding, impacting the local community and the wider allied health industry. A prominent figure in various professional bodies and non-profit organisations, Lauren also donates her time and business acumen to local non-profits, including the Newcastle Agricultural Horticultural and Industrial Association, organisers of the Newcastle Show.

Her recognition of the importance of timely, high-quality services and information to support children’s development has led to many initiatives that respond to the community's needs.

The event's climax was A Growing Understanding being crowned Business of the Year, a testament to the collective effort and shared commitment of the entire ‘purple family’.

“We have remained focused on growing the skills and confidence of the children, families, and team members we support. When everyone has the support, education, and

care to deliver exceptional services, we are all winners,” explained Lauren.

“Our Speech Pathologists and Client Experience Officers are genuinely passionate about supporting the growth and development of the families we work with. Together, we've built more than just a cultural ethos - we've built an organisation that is truly guided by care.”

This year's triumphs underscore A Growing Understanding's dedication to the community and commitment to inclusivity, setting them apart as a leading light in championing growth for all. With these wins, A Growing Understanding has proven, yet again, their commitment to quality, inclusion, and community-focused services.

Practice Director Lauren Haskins with Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser at the 2023 Lake Macquarie Business Excellence Awards.

Survive Winter and Emerge

Glowing in Spring!

WORDS DI VON ESSEN

As winter envelops us with its icy grip, our health and beauty may take a backseat to cosy comforts, but with a few adjustments to your daily routine, you can thrive during winter and emerge radiant just in time for spring.

1. Hydration is key: It's easy to forget to drink enough water during winter when we're not sweating as much. Drink water throughout the day and use moisturising skincare products to combat dryness.

2. Nourish from within: Eat a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals. Load up on fruits, vegetables, and immuneboosting foods for radiant skin and overall health.

3. Moisturize and protect: Harsh winter winds can leave your skin feeling tight and dehydrated. Invest in a highquality moisturiser that suits your skin type and apply it liberally. Remember to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, as UV rays can cause damage even on cloudy days.

4. Exercise regularly: Stay active to boost mood and blood circulation, whether through walks, yoga, or workouts.

5. Pamper your hair: Pamper your hair with nourishing masks and protect it from the cold with hats or scarves.

6. Combat winter blues: Engage in activities you enjoy, spend time with loved ones, and prioritise sleep to rejuvenate your body and mind.

7. Indulge in warm baths: There's nothing quite like a warm, soothing bath to chase away winter's chill. Add natural oils or Epsom salts to your bathwater to relax and nourish your skin.

8. Exfoliate gently: Use mild exfoliators to promote a radiant complexion without stripping essential oils.

9. Stay positive and mindful: Practice mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing to reduce stress and anxiety.

10. Prioritize self-care: Make selfcare a priority during winter, whether through reading, hobbies, or treating yourself to a spa day at home.

Embrace these winter survival tips, and by the time spring arrives, you'll be a radiant and rejuvenated version of yourself, ready to embrace the new season with an inner glow!

Dr. Kathryn Holmes

Restorative Cycles – The Major Factor in Keeping YOUR Teeth for Life

touched with the dental drill. The closer to zero, the better.

This sounds obvious, right? Who wants to have their teeth drilled? Of course not - closer to zero is better!

If this person is going to keep their teeth for life (and I do expect some losses over a lifetime of 80 years) – I would expect the fillings that they had done are probably going to be replaced or re-modelled on 2 or 3 occasions, approximately 20 years apart with the addition of further fillings in the interim. This will take the patient to the age of 80 – with teeth.

To achieve such a result, the dentist would need to be incredibly conservative of tooth structure from the very beginning of treatment – only taking the minimum amount of tooth structure with each new restoration and each new restorative cycle… possibly only conducting repairs on fillings when required instead of a complete restorative cycle… this is how you save tooth structure and provide patients with the opportunity to keep their teeth for life.

Not only does this methodology minimise the number of touches of teeth, in combination with targeted education around diet and home care, it also minimises the cost of dental care over a lifetime.

The most common concern of patients I see is “… I’d like to keep my teeth for life”. This is not only a reasonable desire – it is achievable for the majority of patients. However, the most critical element to delivering this kind of result to patients is how often their teeth are

The reality of this comes down to the number of restorative cycles a patient experiences. I’ll give you an example… let’s say a patient gets their first “round” of fillings around 20 years of age. Let’s also say that this patient will live to be 80 years old.

Sure, we still see patients once or twice a year – this kind of caring oversight ensures problems don’t get out of hand and teeth are always shiny and clean…

This is the essence of Belledental… Keeping Your Teeth for Life.

3 Techniques That SAVE Your Teeth

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.

Direct Resin Veneers (Zero cutting of tooth)

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 su ered trauma. Direct Resin Veneers can do this without cutting teeth – all in one visit.

Alex has had a career focused on lowbiologic cost reconstructive cosmetic dental care – common sense teeth for life.

intouch contributor

DR ALEX HUSZTI BelleDental

On Tour With the Kid

take off and have an adventure. Your life just becomes more structured. It has reminded me in the years since that even though it is more difficult; you need to be available and make time for those adventures.

I now have a teenager, and the changes are not lost on me. When the kid was little, there was not a problem that a hug from Mum could not fix, and we are now creeping into areas where a hug from Mum sometimes is not enough. Friendships become more complicated; romantic issues are just around the corner.

You cross your fingers and hope that you have created a strong enough bond that your kid will come to you with any problem or question they have as life edges into these more complicated areas. If you are honest with yourself, there are lots of things you would not have asked your parents. All these things were on my mind when I saw all the media about Big W pulling a book aimed at teenagers off their shelves.

I started this column years ago as a way to document making the most of that last year before the Kid started school. Until it has

passed, you have no idea how precious that time was when you didn’t have to worry about school terms or sports schedules and could just

The book is Yumi Stynes Welcome to Sex: Your no-silly-questions Guide to Sexuality, pleasure and figuring it out - a copy of which was already on my bookshelf. It currently sits alongside Welcome to Consent and Welcome to your period. And frankly, I cannot see what the issue is. ▶

If your children are not old enough for the information, feel free not to buy it. For kids that are old enough, it's a valuable resource. The book was put together with Dr Melissa Kang.

For those of us who grew up reading Dolly, Dr Kang wrote Dolly Doctor. It was an advice page for teens back in the day.

Being a regular reader, it was the place where teens could ask questions that they felt they couldn't ask elsewhere. I went to a catholic school in the 80s, and the only bit of sex advice was, “the best contraception is NO.”

The outrage raises a thought-provoking query: would you prefer your child to be educated early on about their body, sex, consent, and agency, or would you rather have them encounter issues later in life due to a lack of understanding about sexual matters?

Thankfully, I was close to my mum, but I hate to think what might have happened if that was the only information I had going into my formative years.

In my experience, by the time you think they

FOSTER CARERS are ORDINARY PEOPLE

DOING EXTRAORDINARY THINGS in your local community and we urgently need more of them.

Fostering does not have to be full-time. Emergency Carers look after children and young people removed from unsafe situations for short period while a carer or family member is being located. Being taken from home and family in these circumstances is traumatic for children and the Emergency Foster Carers usually need to be available to take a child at any time though you can let us know when there are times you are not going to be available.

At Key Assets Australia, we provide our foster carers with ongoing training, 24/7 support, a dedicated social worker, and an allowance. We hold regular events and connect foster carers with each other for extra support.

Anyone can apply to become a foster carer. We celebrate diversity and welcome enquiries from people who are single or in a relationship, homeowners or renting. Your culture, religion or sexual orientation doesn’t affect your eligibility for foster care. We believe the diversity of our carers is vital when finding the best possible family for a child.

are ready for "the talk", they know far more than you think they do. I wanted something on hand that would help start that conversation, and I certainly would prefer that over advice or, more likely, misinformation from other teens.

The years between now and adulthood are so tricky. With ever-changing technology, kids can access so much information that we may never even know they have seen. I wish I could slow things down and keep the kid in our safe little bubble, but it’s just not how it works.

The 7th National Survey of Australian Secondary Students and Sexual Health (2021) conducted nationally among Australian high school students unveiled that 67.5 per cent of young individuals sought information about sex and sexual health on the internet, with 56.7 per cent relying on websites and 48.3 per cent using social media as their sources.*

My entire job is to be her training wheels. To give her the skills and knowledge to navigate the big wide world on her own and be her soft place to fall while she is trying to find her way. From a grateful mother, I just wanted to say thank you to Yumi Stynes and Dr Melissa Kang. I’m also thankful I grabbed my copy early!

*Source: www.opal.latrobe.edu.au

If you feel you have the love, space, and energy to provide a safe and happy home, then we would love to talk to you about the options of emergency care, respite care, short-term, or long-term care.

Get Onboard The 2023 Winter Appeal

Imagine going to school today, not knowing where you are going to sleep tonight. That’s the brutal reality for many young people.

Support workers at Newcastle Anglican service agency Samaritans often speak of countless experiences where children as young as 12 reach out for help. This often occurs after leaving unsafe homes.

Amazingly, they are still driven to succeed but need support and stability to continue their education.

Bree is one of these incredible young people. Bree suffered a traumatic family breakdown. She didn’t feel safe and felt that she wasn’t welcome at her own home. With all her possessions in a bag, she started staying with friends at 16.

Her friend’s parents helped her find a place to stay at Samaritans refuges, but Bree always had a goal to secure a safe home at Samaritans Student Accommodation. She described it as like “a mirage in the desert.”

Bree‘s dream became a reality.

Now safely in the accommodation program, Bree got her HSC a year early and was accepted into the University of Newcastle to study Coastal and Marine Science, which she says she loves with all her heart.

Bree, now 18, is studying full-time and working part-time. The Samaritans Student Accommodation has given her the security and stability she craved.

Bree believes she wouldn’t have been able to accomplish what she has without the service.

In fact, she says she may not be alive today if it wasn’t for the Samaritans.

“Without Samaritans, I wouldn’t have survived.”

Samaritans Student Accommodation doesn’t receive any government funding and can only continue to provide this vital support thanks to the generosity of donors. Samaritans is calling for people to help them change lives by donating to its Winter Appeal.

If you are able to help, go to www. samaritans.org.au/donate.

PETS OF THE MONTH

Introducing the beautiful, funny, happy-go-lucky, super affectionate female kelpie cross - Arby. Arby will fill your days with love and laughter with her wonderful personality. She makes her foster Dad laugh by pretending to be a bunny and bouncing around the yard, enjoys walks, car rides and getting out and about! Arby is great with kids and loves her humans but finds other dogs a bit scary, so needs a home where she can have all the attention. Arby is on the hunt for her forever family. Could this be you?

Ziggy is one of DRN's shelter dogs and is everyone’s favourite, as she adores everyone she meets. Fun-loving, energetic and radiates enthusiasm in showing affection to her people, Ziggy is at her happiest when people are around. She has the full-body wiggle dance! Ziggy would suit a family with older teenagers and someone home some of the time as she finds it difficult to be left at home for long hours alone. Ziggy will make someone a great companion and shower you with love!

ARBY | Happy Go Lucky 3-year-old Kelpie

ZIGGY | Fun-loving Chinese Shar-pei Cross

Community News

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY?

CITY OF NEWCASTLE DEVELOPS ENVIRONMENTAL ROADMAP

Net zero carbon emissions, renewable energy initiatives, more cycleways, connected wildlife corridors and sustainable construction materials are part of how City of Newcastle (CN) intends to create an environmental legacy for future generations.

The vision has been outlined in CN's draft Newcastle Environment Strategy, which is set to be tabled ahead of a proposed four-week public exhibition period.

Designed around the three priority areas of climate change, nature-based solutions and the circular economy, the Strategy sets out a 10year environmental roadmap for a sustainable Newcastle, with 15 key actions identified to be delivered within the first four years.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the Strategy would ensure CN continues its decades-long action and advocacy to protect and improve our environment.

"Newcastle has a well-earned reputation as a leader in local government when it comes to protecting our precious natural environment

while also investing in progressive actions to ensure our city is more sustainable," Cr Nelmes said.

"Through this Strategy, we are sending a message to our community that we remain strongly committed to protecting and enhancing Newcastle’s natural environment today, and for future generations of Novocastrians."

The Strategy is based on a shared community vision for our environment, informed by more than 4,500 pieces of feedback from over 2,600 community members and environmental experts received during the

Community Strategic Plan engagement program.

It sets out the initial actions to be delivered by CN or in partnership with state and federal governments, business and the community by 2027.

This includes transitioning CN's vehicles, plant and equipment to electric-powered or low emissions alternatives and expanding our urban forest to create connected green corridors for iconic, threatened and pollinator species.

Other actions include working with local traditional custodians to integrate indigenous knowledge into how we care for and manage our land and increasing the use of recovered materials and sustainable product alternatives in CN operations and construction works.

Once the Strategy is put on exhibition, community members will be given a chance to comment on the Strategy via the Have Your Say page on CN's website and will be invited to enter a free photography competition designed to capture the different ways people value Newcastle's environment.

SPORTS FIELD UPGRADES KICKING GOALS ACROSS LAKE MAC

Millions of dollars worth of sports field upgrades across Lake Macquarie are set to reap benefits for a multitude of sports codes and participants, from junior ranks to senior teams.

The improvements include upgrades of 25 changerooms at 12 sports grounds in the city, making them more accessible and usable for junior and senior female participants.

Lights have been installed at four sites as part of a $923,000 project to extend the windows of opportunity for teams to train

Council's Community Assets Delivery Coordinator Brent Wellham on the recently completed rugby league field at Croudace Bay Sports Complex

and play at Douglas Street Oval, Dora Creek, Cooranbong Sports Complex, Finnan Oval, Blackalls Park and Lenaghan Oval, Belmont North.

Also in Belmont, Lake Macquarie City Council Community Assets Delivery Coordinator, Brent Wellham said construction was underway to realise the vision set out in the Belmont Sports Fields Master Plan, covering Barton No.2 Field and Lumsden Oval.

“This precinct is the city’s largest dedicated sports area, and the Stage One works will create a facility capable of hosting regionallevel competition,” he said.

“The fields are already used for rugby league, soccer, cricket and baseball, but the upgrades will pave the way for other codes, including AFL, to be based there.”

“We’ve spoken at length to sports clubs already using the site to help inform the design and prioritise work.”

Meanwhile, the $9.5 million overhaul of Croudace Bay Sports Complex is nearing completion, with new cricket nets, netball courts and amenities now operational.

“This is a growing part of our city, and the sports complex is a focal point for sports and physical activity,” he said.

“The upgrades there, and at other sports

fields throughout the city, reflect growing demand in our community for quality facilities that cater to a range of sporting codes, ages and abilities.”

The various upgrades have been jointly funded by Council, the NSW Government and the Federal Government.

MAITLAND ENGAGES AI TO SURVEY ROAD NETWORK

Maitland City Council is set to conduct an electronic survey of the region’s entire road network throughout this month, using cuttingedge artificial intelligence (AI) technology to see where road maintenance efforts are most needed.

Council has engaged engineering firm SHEPHERD to complete the survey using their Road Asset Condition Assessment System (RACAS), which will involve cameras assessing sealed and unsealed roads.

RACAS captures high-definition images every 10 metres, as well as GPS and roughness data, to electronically produce a condition rating of the pavement while the AI software automatically logs road defects.

Group Manager Infrastructure and Works, David Moloney, said the road survey data collected would indicate when and where

Council needs to focus its road maintenance efforts.

“Our aim is to continue delivering safe and accessible roads for our community, now and into the future,” said Mr Moloney.

‘This survey technology has been designed specifically for local government road managers and uses AI to automatically identify and record high-priority safety defects.

‘It takes the guesswork out of our future works program and ensures we get the best value for money from our ongoing investment in maintaining local transport assets.’

The data captured in this road survey will be displayed in an online mapping environment to

show the condition of all roads that Council owns and maintains. As the RACAS survey vehicle travels at the same speed as normal traffic, no disruptions are expected for residents or motorists during the survey. Work is scheduled to take place throughout August.

RSPCA CUPCAKE DAY

Preheat your ovens and set your timers - the sweetest fundraiser for animals in need, RSPCA’s Cupcake Day, is back this August! Each year, close to 100,000 animals turn to the RSPCA looking for help, and you have the power to serve a platter of kindness to each one.

Sign-up to bake for an ‘amazing paws’ at www. rspcacupcakeday.com.au and host your Cupcake Day any day in August.

WETLANDS ART EXHIBITION

Until 24 August, the Hunter Wetlands Centre is set to be the venue for the much-anticipated Exploration Road exhibition, showcasing the remarkable artistry of Justin and Deb Goulding. Justin's artwork, a captivating mix of acrylics, oils on canvas and board, and mesmerising photography, invites viewers on a journey of emotion and wonder. Meanwhile, Deb's pieces skillfully interweave the worlds of photography and mixed media, presenting a compelling visual narrative that resonates deeply. Visit www.wetlands.org.au for more information.

Newcastle’s Own Best-Selling Romance Author Michelle Douglas

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

There’s a good chance that you’ve never heard of one of the Hunter’s most successful authors. Michelle Douglas has sold over two million books worldwide, in 26 different countries, and she lives right here in Newcastle.

If you’re partial to reading books in the romance genre and regularly read Mills & Boon, then she’s probably one of your favourite authors. Currently working on her 39th book, she’s been nominated for numerous awards, including the Romance Writers of America’s RITA (like the Oscars for romance books), the Australian RUBY, the Booksellers Best Award (which she won in 2013), the National Readers’ Choice Awards, and many others.

Michelle always knew that she wanted to write. She grew up in Abermain and attended Abermain Primary School and later Kurri Kurri High School in the 1980s. Like many of her generation, she thought university was too expensive and out of her reach.

“I decided to have a gap year,” said Michelle.

“Many in my family had worked in the clothing industry, so initially, I followed that path. I actually spent a year sewing the crotch into men’s undies at the local Bonds factory!”

During that year, Michelle discovered she was eligible for Austudy, and in 1988 she began

her Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English Literature. It wasn’t until her honours year, though, that she started taking her childhood dream of becoming a writer more seriously.

“I used to devour Mills & Boon books as a teenager (having stolen them from my Mum!) The women in my family all read romance, too and even though I read all the classics and went through my Tolkien phase, I thought it might be fun to have a go at writing a Mills & Boon.

“I read a small article in the local paper that mentioned the local chapter of the Romance Writers of Australia. The article also mentioned that Mills & Boon read every unsolicited manuscript that is sent to them. As far as I know, that’s still true today. Romance Writers of Australia is a fabulous source of industry information, with articles and courses available to improve your craft. Women’s organisations tend to be very supportive. Suddenly I had my own cheer squad that wanted me to succeed.”

During the 90s, Michelle got on with life, fell in love and kept playing around with romance writing. She wrote her first book during this time but didn’t get really serious about it until 2004. She wasn’t published until 2007.

“I was having good rejection letters from the editors with suggestions for improvements – they liked my writing. I was working in a call

centre when my husband suggested that I quit and give it a red hot go for a couple of years. That was a big call and probably made all the difference – he’s definitely a keeper!”

Around this time, Michelle studied for her masters degree but found it challenging to get the university to agree to accept romance as a suitable topic for a higher degree.

“When they rejected my choice of subject, it was like waving a red flag at a bull. I discovered that it was less about academic snobbery and more about ignorance of the international academics who were investing in the genre. It wasn’t until I shared a paper I was doing for an international conference that my supervisor finally understood the depth of the subject matter and the amount of academic interest coming out of the US and the UK. I went on to do a PhD, and the subject of my thesis was The Single Mother Heroine and the Vexed Question of Feminism in the Contemporary Romance Novel.”

Many people have the view that romance novels are anti-feminist, but this is not true. By today’s standards, the romance novels of decades past were indeed questionable in this regard, but the genre now reflects more contemporary attitudes.

“Contemporary romance novels feature women as the subject rather than the object.

Credit: Lake Macquarie City Council

It’s about their desires, issues, and what they want out of their relationships. These days we feature strong, independent female characters who demand equality in their sexual relationships. There’s no bodice ripping here unless the female character wants it!

“Romance is the world’s biggest-selling genre, yet it is still not taken seriously, and I think this is because it is written by, about, and for, women. It’s a woman’s concerns, what she needs and wants that are at the centre of the story, and I think that’s an important and empowering element of a romance novel. You know, people used to hide the cover of their book because they were embarrassed to be seen reading a romance novel. Ebook technology has vastly increased global sales because no one has to hide the cover anymore! It’s appalling that women are made to feel embarrassed by their reading choices.”

Another criticism that is often levelled at the genre is the formulaic structure of the novels and the use of tropes. The heroine always gets her man, and they will live happily ever after.

“I believe that this is one of the reasons the genre is so popular. It’s comforting to know that happiness wins out in the end. Very few genres deal with the emotion of joy, but the ending of a romance novel is unashamedly joyful. To write a book that leaves a smile on

someone’s face and helps them feel a little more hopeful about the world is a wonderful thing to be able to do.

“And for those that criticise the formulaic structure, I would compare that to football. Every game follows the same rules. Every game follows the same structure, yet men go mad for it. It’s no different. “

Michelle spends Monday to Friday, 8am to 11am writing 2,500 words per day. She won’t look at or answer her phone, and her family knows not to interrupt her. Her time is very structured. She writes longhand and spends the afternoons typing up what she’s written, answering emails, posting to social media, checking proofs or, if she’s very lucky, sneaking out to meet friends for coffee or walks along the beach.

“I get a lot of emails from readers, and it can be incredibly rewarding and touching. You have no idea when you’re writing something that it can have a profound impact on others. I had one lady reach out to me to thank me for one single line in one of my novels which helped her to come to terms with the loss of her granddaughter. Or there are the emails from women who are sick in hospital, where life is tough, and the book helps take their mind off their troubles for a couple of hours. They are grateful to lose themselves in a world that

makes them happy again, if only for a moment. It’s a privilege to do work that can have that effect.

“Australia has a lot of established romance writers who make a pretty decent living from their writing, yet we never hear about them. My advice to anyone looking to break into this area is to have a go. Join the Romance Writers of Australia, study the Mills & Boon website and just write. The very process of writing your first book is the biggest learning opportunity you have. And there’s a lot of satisfaction to be had just in the writing of it without even being published.”

In terms of the future, Michelle has no plans to change what she’s doing. When she was studying for her masters, she wrote a women’s fiction manuscript which had an element of mystery in it and more recently, during Covid, she pulled it out to try and whip it into shape. It’s set in Australia, and she is currently pitching it to traditional publishers to have a go at breaking into this more mainstream genre. For her romance fans, though, her latest book, An Italian Affair, is on shelves now in paperback, sold at Big W, Kmart, Target and the usual outlets.

August Horoscopes

ASTROLOGER KIM FAIRMINER ON WHAT’S IN THE STARS THIS MONTH SAGITTARIUS

STAR OF THE MONTH

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

Happy birthday, Leo. There’s nothing you love more than having an adoring partner by your side reminding you how wonderful you are. This Full Moon asks that you pull back on the spending as well as sharing a little of the limelight. An aesthetic epiphany takes place mid-month, and you finally settle on the creative direction you are willing to commit to. This isn’t something to be rushed, so I urge you to create an elaborate mood board as well as budget projections before you get busy with the scissors. Mercury retrograde means you need to keep your receipts.

22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER

Keep a close eye on your calendar in early August, as you’re a busy bilby under the Full Moon light, hopping hither and thither around your neighbourhood and favourite online spaces. You are setting a cracking pace at work, too, and are a strong contender for employee of the month. Truth be told, though, it feels increasingly hollow as the month progresses, and – true to sign – you start dreaming of far-off places.

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

your cash sector. Your uncanny ability to spot a bargain or lucrative business opportunityespecially online - continues to mid-month.

TAURUS 21 APRIL – 20 MAY

VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

The Full Moon reminds you just how hard you have been working and how much you’ve been giving to others. The otherworld is full of wisdom as well as the peace you long for. Mercury, retrograde in your sign, could induce a crisis of confidence, which has you questioning your life and your career. Don’t hurry; you have plenty of time to meditate through this. Doing less is more efficient.

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

August is all about finding new ways to have fun (or rediscovering what you used to do for fun before you became a responsible adult). Spending time with children or revisiting your inner child around the Full Moon helps you remember that you are a playful creator with a vivid imagination. Take a leadership role and gather a group together mid-month to embark upon a colourful new social activity.

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

Like a bag of microwave popcorn, the Full Moon declares the culmination of a recent domestic arc. There’s not much more to be done other than to watch your plans for your home and family come to fruition. Release the steam and bask in what you have achieved. It is significant (and tasty). Be patient and continue to allow time for your cherished personal vision to fully manifest. Creative career aspirations stir midmonth.

You’re a cool customer and certainly shrewd with money. This month you start to see how all the little pieces could potentially fit together. You love a definitive pathway forward, even if it is laced with more than a few potholes. That metaphor could also play out literally, with hiccups to your travel plans, so don’t skimp on the insurance. Children could come cap-in-hand to the parental bank around the New Moon.

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

The Full Moon gives you licence for a rare PDE (public display of emotion). Don’t worry, it’ll blow over in a jiffy. The planets are currently stacked in your western hemisphere, meaning life is all about other people – their feelings, their money, what they want from you. This isn’t a bad thing as, through these encounters, you may inadvertently discover what you want for yourself. Mercury retrograde suggests it may be a refund. A vibrant new cycle begins in your relationship sector around the New Moon, promising renewed partnership energy whether you are a single or coupled Aquarian.

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

A strategic absence from the social scene around the Full Moon will not only make hearts grow fonder, it will also help you get stuff done. Your to-do list looks rather chockers. You could discover an amazing organisational app or productivity hack mid-month to help you wrangle all the amazing activities you have afoot. Ask yourself, though, who are you really serving with all these acts of service?

ARIES 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL August promises all kinds of fun and frivolity, thanks to the first stirrings of Spring, the Full Moon in your friendship sector, and your boss planet Mars getting a high five from Jupiter in

Whatever has had you feeling like pushing the proverbial uphill in recent weeks is where you will have your greatest breakthrough. While the Full Moon has you shining at work, it’s your private life that truly holds your attention. By mid-month, everything changes as planet Venus begins a fresh cycle. With some key changes, you regain your rightful status as the sovereign of your home, family, and inner happy place.

GEMINI 21 MAY – 21 JUNE

Give your mind a well-deserved break and heed the call to adventure around the Full Moon. Your boss might not be too happy about it, but you need some quiet time with yourself. Quirky luxury is your best bet for a truly enriching experience that cracks open previously locked intellectual treasures. As the month progresses, trickster Mercury slows down for the retrograde cycle, which could see misunderstandings escalate into arguments at home or with family.

CANCER 22 JUNE – 22 JULY

Yay. Your annual angst-ridden Full Moon has you worrying about a taxation audit and the lifespan of your retirement savings. You flirt with the idea of escaping from these fiscal phantoms by booking a one-way flight to somewhere fabulous; however, logic gets in the way of this otherwise perfect plan. The New Moon looks promising for a collaborative income stream, and you could find yourself with an at-home business emerging at month’s end.

intouch contributor

KIM FAIRMINER

Kim is an astrologer, writer, and witch who has helped thousands of people achieve their goals, navigate challenges, make important decisions, and live their best life. Her readers, clients, and students rave about the deep spiritual insights she delivers with honesty, humour, and uncanny accuracy. Learn more about her work at www.kimfairminer.com

HUNTER HOMES & Lifestyle

Half Time! What's the Score?

WORDS DI VON ESSEN

We’re at the pointy end of the first half of the year, and it’s time to take stock of the first six months of 2023 and its impact on the property market. Luckily, the local market has provided a generally stable response to successive interest rate rises, and according to David Sims (Property Valuer, Herron Todd White*), the expectation of overall property price depreciation has not materialised, but growth has been limited too.

“As would be expected in a generally weak market, demand for property has fallen with less aggression in the bidding process and property taking longer to achieve a sale, however, this is probably what would happen in a normal market which is not overheating,” said David.

“Location-wise, higher demand suburbs are performing well with well-presented properties at sensible asking prices achieving sales without too much trouble compared to those where vendors or agents with high expectations are failing to attract buyers.

“Older properties that appear dated or semimodern are also achieving less interest, mainly due to the construction industry providing less certainty over timescales and rising build costs, making renovations expensive.”

One of the key factors contributing to the stability of Newcastle's property market seems to be the city's diversified economy. Historically

reliant on the mining and heavy industries, Newcastle has made a significant shift towards a more diversified economic landscape. Emerging sectors such as technology, education, healthcare, and tourism have infused the city with new jobs and attracted a wave of young professionals and families seeking better opportunities. This influx of talent has driven demand for properties, keeping the real estate sector buoyant.

Additionally, Newcastle's infrastructure development has played a pivotal role in shaping the property market. The expansion of public transportation, the construction of major roads, and the upgrading of healthcare and educational facilities have enhanced the city's livability and overall appeal. As a result, both local and interstate buyers have been drawn to Newcastle as a desirable place to call home and over the course of the past six months, this has been reflected on the lower end of the market, which has again attracted interest.

“The sub $800,000 price bracket with reasonable presentation has performed well compared to the prestige market, which is falling short due to selling prices not meeting expectations and marketing times being extended due to the lack of active buyers,” said David.

“Mid-range properties between $1 million and $3 million have generally seen some activity in-demand suburbs, however, buyers

are becoming more selective when considering a property.

“Vacant land sales have seen a fall in demand, with some vendors or owners struggling to recover from their off-the-plan purchase price at the height of the market. Agents generally report a weakening in demand mainly due to rising build costs, extended build times and risk of price variations due to delays.”

City of Newcastle’s commitment to tackling environmental issues should also prove beneficial to our property market moving forward. A draft Newcastle Environment Strategy designed around the three priority areas of climate change, nature-based solutions and the circular economy sets out a 10-year environmental roadmap for a sustainable Newcastle, with 15 key actions identified to be delivered within the first four years.

The good news is that the property market in Newcastle remains vibrant and promising for the remainder of 2023. The city's diversified economy, improved infrastructure, and focus on sustainable development have contributed to its resilience. As the sun sets on another sunny day in Newcastle, it leaves behind a landscape of opportunities for those seeking a place to call home or investors looking to capitalise on a stable market amidst changing times.

*Source: July 2023 edition of Month In Review, a national property report from Herron Todd White –Australia’s largest independent property valuation and advisory company.

NIP IT

IT

THE NIPPY NEW WAY NIPPING issues early, to save you money in future home maintenance repairs. LIC: 309570C

NGM Group Launches Digital Home Loans

Newcastle Greater Mutual Group’s (NGM Group)

Newcastle Permanent brand has a new service for home loan applications, with the company’s just-launched Digital Home Loans cutting the process from application to conditional approval down to less time than it can take to cook dinner*.

Digital Home Loans allow customers to complete their application from the bus to work or on their laptop in front of the television at night. It puts the customer in the driver’s seat, allowing them to apply wherever and whenever they want.

NGM Group Chief Executive Officer, Bernadette Inglis, said the new service was designed with speed and convenience in mind while continuing to apply the proper checks and balances

READ ONLINE READ ONLINE

Sencia Welcomes First Residents to Green Ridge Hunter Valley

After extensive market research, Stuart says they recognised a gap in the Hunter Valley for luxury retirement living that provides generous house-sized villas and the highest quality facilities and services.

to ensure responsible lending.

“We are seeing gamechanging results so far. Within days of launching, we had an application lodged and conditionally approved in around 20 minutes,” Ms Inglis said.

“More than just a speedier way to get an outcome, this platform empowers customers to apply for their home loan at a time and location that’s convenient for them, rather than finding time in their busy schedule to have a face-to-face meeting.

Currently open to eligible customers seeking to refinance, the Digital Home Loan is set to launch to new home purchasers later this year.

*T&Cs, fees, charges and credit criteria apply.

“Our focus is to provide generous and sustainable homes within a community that provides connection and a vibrant lifestyle. As an Australian-owned and operated business with extensive experience in Retirement Living, we have seen firsthand the social and physical benefits to residents living within a thriving community, and we look forward to bringing this project to life in the Hunter Valley,” says Stuart Moore, Chief Executive Officer for Sencia.

“The feedback from our new residents is very positive, and they can’t wait to show off their villas and the Green Ridge Pavilion Building to their family and friends, who will also get to enjoy the benefits of these great facilities,” he added.

The site at Kesterton Rise, North Rothbury, is just 300m from the Huntlee Town Square, which features a Shopping Centre anchored by Coles, a medical centre, and a restaurant/tavern. The site is bordered by walking trails and parklands, with the popular Hunter Valley wineries, golf courses, horse riding and food offerings just a short 10-minute drive away. Newcastle CBD and airport are just a 50-minute drive away.

Sencia has a small number of villas available to move to now, and Stage 2 is selling fast, with completion due in February 2024. You are invited to register your details at www. greenridgehuntervalley.com.au

in the bud before it NIPS your hip pocket!