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

EDITORS...

Get out your diaries Newcastle, because if you thought February was jam-packed with a plethora of great events and things to do, then let me introduce you to March 2023! It's the first month of Autumn, and the month gets off to a flying start with two major events for the city as the Thrifty Newcastle 500 and Newcastle Fringe Festival come to town.

Newcastle Fringe is entering its 8th year, bigger and brighter than ever. A rising star on the international Fringe touring circuit, it hails itself as Australia's biggest little Fringe Festival. The city will be abuzz with loads of entertainment options to suit every taste, with 398 amazing local and international artists and 135 performances of 55 individual acts. The festival kicks off on 9 March, and you can read all about it on page 16.

Could things be any better that weekend? Yes, they can – because from 9 March, Newcastle will come alive with the most anticipated event on the city's sporting calendar and an incredible line-up of live entertainment and community events for all the family to enjoy. The 2023 Repco Supercars Championship launches the season with the Thrifty Newcastle 500 and the next generation of Supercars making their muchanticipated debut. It's Camaro vs Mustang on track for the first time, marking the start of a new era for the sport.

At the end of the month, we welcome the Spiegeltent back to Civic Park with a lavish stage set for the party of the century. The Party lifts the curtain on the secret world of social climbers, rich kids, gate crashers and hangers-on (sounds like an average Saturday night?) Back by popular demand, Maho Magic Bar will again sit alongside the Spiegeltent in a bespoke Japanese venue. For those who have experienced Spiegeltent before, you know it will be a sell-out, so get your tickets early.

This month we also sat down with Australia's original disco diva and Queen of Pop, Marcia Hines, to find out about the upcoming production Velvet Rewired. In a show that fuses music, circus and burlesque, this disco inferno results in an insatiably flawless theatrical experience with a dazzling array of acrobats, aerialists, unforgettable vocalists, glitz, glamour and jaw-dropping circus skills that are not to be missed. (Note to self – book tickets NOW!) Read our interview on page 22. Enjoy!

LEARN FOR FUN

ENROL NOW FOR TERM 2

Choose from a huge range of affordable and interesting short courses. With everything from jewellery making to Italian cooking, Atwea offers fun courses that will help you spark your creativity, keep connected and stay active.

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

SATURDAY 4 MARCH

■ The Wahl Barber Expo at The NEX. Catering to the barber industry and men's culture, this event, running from 4 to 5 March, focuses on 'homegrown' Australian products. Workshops and demonstrations will display products and services that are leaders in the industry. The main attraction is the Layrite Deluxe Barber of the Year Competition. For more information visit www.thebarberexpo.com

SUNDAY 5 MARCH

FRIDAY 10 MARCH

■ Brawl at City Hall at Newcastle City Hall. The action is coming back to Newcastle City Hall, with Newcastle Pro Wrestling bringing their best for 'Brawl at City Hall 2023'. There will be championship matches, tag team action, women's wrestling and more. Experience something different and exciting! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

WEDNESDAY 1 MARCH

■ Richard Marx at The NEX. Richard Marx is bringing his Songwriter Tour down under this month and is making a stop in Newcastle! With such a heavy influence on pop culture and today's playlists, he is excited to perform for Australian fans once again. For more information visit www.thenex.com.au

FRIDAY 3 MARCH

■ Newcastle Show at Newcastle Showground

The Newcastle Show, presented by Greater Bank, is back for a show-stopping weekend as Australia's most iconic agricultural and horticultural event. With over three spectacular days (3, 4 and 5 March) full of competitions, animals, activations, displays, entertainment, rides, showbags and more brand-new and much-loved events, no one will be bored! In addition to the excitement, the Newcastle Show has proven to be an essential platform for businesses in the region and a starting point for rural talent. Bring the family along and experience the fun. Visit www.newcastleshow.com.au for more information or to book tickets.

■ Will Gibb: Flaming Hot at Newcastle Comedy Club. From social media to a stage near you, Will Gibb is on tour! Taking his bold characters mixed with personal stories, Will creates an hour of hilarious stand-up comedy. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com.au

WEDNESDAY 8 MARCH

▼ Ocean Film Festival at Event Cinemas Kotara. The Ocean Festival will showcase educational and entertaining films on various topics, including ocean exploration, marine creatures and more. The festival is committed to conserving oceans through its work with local ocean charities. Be inspired to respect and protect the oceans! For more information visit www.oceanfilmfestivalaustralia.com.au

■ Doll Haus Cabaret at Gallipoli Legion Club. Home to some of Australia's most eclectic performers, this extravaganza is not to be missed! Doll Haus prides itself on being inclusive with an entertaining evening of Burlesque, Cabaret, Drag, Magic, Illusion and more. There is something for everyone, so come play at the Doll Haus! Shows available on 10, 11 and 12 March. For more information or to book, visit www.newcastlefringe.com.au

SATURDAY 11 MARCH

■ Relay for Life at The University of Newcastle, Callaghan. Relay for Life is an experience that raises funds for the Cancer Council. Through fun movement, you'll be contributing to future research, prevention and support services. Come together as a community to celebrate

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.

The Wahl Barber Expo

Relay for Life

Ocean Film Festival

local cancer survivors and those currently going through a cancer experience and honour and remember loved ones lost. Take a stride towards a cancer-free future! To register or for more info, visit www.relayforlife.org.au

WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH

■ 12 Angry Men at The Playhouse, Newcastle Civic Theatre. 12 Angry Men is a dramatic play about a jury debating a homicide trial. Although the play is set in 1953, its themes are as relevant to today as justice is crucial to the legal system. Go along and find out the verdict while exposing yourself to an interesting theatre production. Shows running until Saturday, 25 March. For more information visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

THURSDAY 16 MARCH

■ Strange Men at Gallipoli Legion Club. Strange Men will take you on a journey that explores masculinity in a mind-bending way with a unique blend of talented individuals! As an edgy contemporary theatre experience, you can expect good music, funny jokes, and primal drum rhythms. Shows available on 16, 17, 18 and 19 March. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.newcastlefringe.com.au

▼ Cake Life Convention at Newcastle Entertainment Centre. The Cake Life Convention is three days (17, 18 and 19 March) of fun with a focus on sweet treats. A cake competition, mini-classes and kids' face painting are just some of the activities on offer. There will be international teachers providing demonstrations, so if you want to learn, this is for you! For more info or to book tickets, visit www.cakelifeconvention.com.au

THURSDAY 2 MARCH

The Launch Pad Wickham Park Hotel

FRIDAY 3 MARCH

Smooth The Blackbutt Hotel

The After Party Trio Warners Bay

Foreshore

SATURDAY 4 MARCH

Dave Andrews The Shortland Hotel

Tim Harding The Burwood Inn

FRIDAY 10 MARCH

Movements The Newcastle Hotel

Bodyjar & Gyroscope The Cambridge

SATURDAY 11 MARCH

Blues Arcadia Stag & Hunter Hotel

Last Stand The Newcastle Hotel

SATURDAY 18 MARCH

■ Wine Machine at Dalwood Estate. Enjoy a day filled with wine, food, and live music! The winery event is back with a garden party by day and a fiesta by night. So, dine, dance and drink your way through the adventure that sparks all senses. For more information or to secure your tickets to the Best. Chardy. Ever!, visit www.wine-machine.com

■ DIal M for Murder at Newcastle Theatre Company. This retro crime thriller play has shows running from 18 March to 1 April. For details, see page 26.

SUNDAY 19 MARCH

The Levymen Wallsend Diggers

SUNDAY 12 MARCH

Area 51 Wickham Park Hotel

WEDNESDAY 15 MARCH

Stella Donnelly The Cambridge

THURSDAY 16 MARCH

The Pleasures Stag & Hunter Hotel

FRIDAY 17 MARCH

Paparazzi Nags Head Hotel

Mitch King Stag & Hunter Hotel

SATURDAY 18 MARCH

Battlesnake Stag & Hunter Hotel

Pacific Avenue The Hamilton Station Hotel

FRIDAY 17 MARCH

■ POWERHOUSE at The Sydney Junction Hotel Local icons Li Laurent and Eddy Rockefeller are presenting their classic spectacular in a one-hour show on escapism. Featuring killer vocals and relatable stories, it is made for everyone. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.newcastlefringe.com.au

◀ Brunchercize 70s Disco at Hamilton Community Hive. Do you want a relaxed environment to enjoy dance play with no expectations? The theme for Brunchercize this month is 70s disco, so get ready to learn some signature moves! There's also a lucky door prize to keep things exciting. Bring yourself, a drink bottle and a towel and get ready to sweat! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.humanitix.com

SATURDAY 25 MARCH

■ Nurse Georgie Carroll: Sista Flo 2.0 at Newcastle Civic Theatre. If you want to laugh,

SUNDAY 19 MARCH

Kyle Lionhart The Wickham Park Hotel

FRIDAY 24 MARCH

Adam Newling The Hamilton Station Hotel

Liz Stringer The Cambridge

SATURDAY 25 MARCH

Kingswood Stag & Hunter Hotel

Dave Carter Clarendon Hotel

The Grogans The Cambridge

SATURDAY 31 MARCH

Kazzie Band Honeysuckle Hotel

Joel Leggett The Cambridge

WHAT'S ON in March

(Continued)

gasp and cry all during one show, Nurse Georgie Carroll can guarantee that! With bluntness, wit and charm, Georgie has a broad appeal that can change the mood of any room. The stand-up show is in Newcastle for one night only, so be sure to secure tickets. It's just what the doctor ordered! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

is something for everyone to enjoy at this blockbuster event. To book tickets and more, visit www.huntervalleyairshow.com.au

SUNDAY 26 MARCH

▶ CELLO at Christ Church Cathedral. Christ Church Camerata is an exciting chamber ensemble with an upcoming performance this month! Featuring two wonderful cellists: Anthea Scott-Mitchell and Gavin Clark, as soloists in works by Vivaldi, David Banney, and Max Bruch's evocative 'Kol Nidrei'. The Camerata will also perform Wiren's 'Serenade for Strings' and Coleridge-Taylor's beautiful 'Novelletten'. This event is not to be missed! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.ccamerata.com.au

for many people. Experience the life-changing effects live on stage! Go on a journey and learn all about your body. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatre.com.au

FRIDAY 31 MARCH

SATURDAY 25 MARCH

▲ Red Hot Summer Tour at Roche Estate. With a line-up of Aussie music icons, The Red Hot Summer Tour will be one of the most popular festivals! Set amongst the vineyards of Roche Estate, it'll be a memorable experience for all

As Fresh As It Gets

■ The Rocky Horror Picture Show at Rathmines Theatre. The classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show will be screened in an intimate setting for patrons to enjoy at the 1940s heritage theatre. Get ready to dress up and sing along at this unique film-watching experience. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.lakemac.com.au

King Prawn Season, Pop the Champa gne!

Hunter Valley Airshow

WHAT'S ON AT Lake Mac

aspiring professional athletes, coaches, administrators and anyone who wants to challenge themselves and take on a new sport.

We encourage fathers, sons, brothers, partners, husbands and friends to get behind their mothers, daughters, sisters, partners, wives and share the festival experiences with them.

MAR MARKET GUIDE

EVERY SATURDAY IN MARCH

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

EVERY SUNDAY IN MARCH

>

4 – 12 MARCH AT LAKE MACQUARIE

This inclusive festival will offer something for everyone, with an extensive program that caters to sporting newcomers,

The week long community event offers a range of activities for you to enjoy such as Try a Sport Day, Inspirational Breakfast with Jelena Dokic, Live Music @ Lake with Clare Bowditch and special guest, Sports Exhibition, Friday Night Foodies and Skaties 80s roller derby. There will be community led events all week long so you can experience a range of trial classes and demonstrations and discover a passion for a new sport.

Come along and get involved. Let’s support Women in Sport. For the full line up of events visit www.lakemac.com.au and search for Women in Sport Festival.

AUSTRALIAN ROMANTIC & CLASSICAL ORCHESTRA

> 10 MARCH AT ADAMSTOWN

The Australian Romantic & Classical Orchestra is celebrating ten years of memorable concerts and education

Next Market: 18 March

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

SATURDAY 4 MARCH

■ Pelican Foreshore Markets at Pelican, 9am-1pm

■ The Olive Tree Market at Civic Park, 9am – 2pm

SUNDAY 12, 19, 26 MARCH

■ Newcastle City Farmers Market at Newcastle Showground, 7am-1pm

SATURDAY 18 MARCH

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

programs. Their 2023 concert season is kicking off with Mozart Clarinet Quintet, Schubert & Hummel (Viennese Vogue), making a stop in Newcastle! The performance explores the explosion of the popularity of the clarinet in the late 1700s, with a beautiful balance of music bridging the classical and romantic eras. Don't miss the musical revolution! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.arco.org.au

Warners

Image by Robert Catto

MORPETH MOTORAMA

> SUNDAY 5 MARCH AT CLOSEBOURNE HOUSE

The Rotary Club of East Maitland is proudly presenting the annual Morpeth Motorama! Drawing motor enthusiasts from all over Australia, it will bring an estimated 535 vehicles worth $5 million to the one venue. The public viewing is just a gold coin donation, with proceeds going to East Maitland Rotary Club, who are providing funds for family accommodation at Maitland Hospital. As a highlight of the car rally season, hundreds are expected to flock to the event! Enjoy the entertainment on offer such as kid’s activities and trade stalls or wander into the town’s galleries, boutiques, and cafes to explore. It is sure to be a day full of fun!

THRIFTY NEWCASTLE 500

> FRIDAY 10, SATURDAY 11 & SUNDAY 12 MARCH

NEWCASTLE CBD

The Repco Supercars Championship is back for 2023! This year Newcastle is hosting the season opener, so you can expect it to be a special occasion. The highly anticipated event welcomes the Gen3 era for Supercars with the introduction of the Chevrolet Camaro and Ford Mustang. Watch Newcastle come alive with live entertainment and family-friendly events. Spanning across one massive weekend, visitors can expect nonstop action and excitement! With artists such ICEHOUSE, Hilltop Hoods, Thelma Plum, and Trophy Eyes, you can also guarantee off-track fun. Visit www.supercars.com/newcastle to book tickets and more.

EMMA MEMMA'S TWIRLY TOUR

> MONDAY 13 MARCH

AT NEWCASTLE CIVIC THEATRE

For the first time, Emma Memma is taking her live show around the country to empower young children. Through

movement and creativity, Emma Memma brings her love of dance, sign language, and music to the foreground of the media space for an experience kids won't forget. Families attending are encouraged to dress in orange, pink and green. Emma Memma can't wait to see you at the show! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Marlene McDonald's 1950 Singer Tourer

Image by Salty Dingo

MR SNOTBOTTOM

> SAT 18 AND 19 MARCH AT BRUNKER COMMUNITY THEATRE

Mr Snotbottom is a kids' comedian full of stand-up about the yucky things kids love – boogers, pop-offs, smells and bottoms! He's performing in Newcastle as part of the Newcastle Fringe Festival and is providing a show full of gross gags, tasteless tunes, and wrong routines. Mr Snotbottom is guaranteed to gross you out and leave you smiling at the same time with humour that the whole family can enjoy. This is the perfect show to take your kids (5+) to watch. For more info visit www.newcastlefringe.com.au

WAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE BY MATT HARVEY

> THURS

SUN 19 MARCH AT NEWCASTLE COMEDY CLUB

16 –

As part of the 2023 Newcastle Fringe Festival, Matt Harvey presents Wage Against the Machine. It is an exploration of one man’s journey through wage theft, robodebt, and saving the lives of eighteen people, all while earning minimum wage. Matt developed this show throughout the COVID-19 outbreak when he decided to focus on compiling experiences and wrongdoings from all his previous workplaces. Matt Harvey invites you to punch your timecard and join him to explore the larger issues in life at Wage Against the Machine. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.mattharveystuff.com

KURRI KURRI

NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL

> FRI 24, SAT 25 & SUN 26 MARCH KURRI KURRI

The annual Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival is about all things rock n roll, classic cars, hot rods, fashion, dancing, music, and everything else that encapsulates the 50s and 60s! There is something for everyone at the Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival, with free entertainment, market stalls, food vans, performance, parades, competitions, and lots more. Watch the town centre transform and be taken back to the glory of the 50s and 60s era. So, polish your cars, shine your shoes, and get ready to bring back the good times! For more information or to purchase tickets to events, visit www.kurrikurrinostalgiafestival.com.au

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

Matt Harvey Image by Mark Gambino

Spiegeltent Returns with THE PARTY to End All Parties!

The Spiegeltent is back! From 30 March until 7 May, the outrageous new headline Spiegeltent production THE PARTY, by creative geniuses Strut and Fret, will descend upon Newcastle as part of a national tour, with a cast of incredibly talented performers and, as always, some big surprises.

With a lavish stage set for the party of the century, this show lifts the curtain on the secret world of social climbers, rich kids, gate crashers and hangers-on. Giving us an uncensored insight into the debaucherous goings-on of a high-society soirée, THE PARTY could be described as a risqué exploration of the laws of attraction, where nothing is off limits.

Conceived and Directed by Scott Maidment, with comedy direction by Spencor Novich (American Horror Story, Blanc de Blanc) and choreography from LA's Kevin Maher (choreographer to Madonna, Rihanna, Britney Spears, Justin Bieber), anticipate a high-octane, provocative show full of surprises.

Seasoned international cast members include London WestEnd theatre royalty – Amanda Lindgren and Danny Collins Wright; New Yorker Todd Degnan, who has toured and performed with Cirque US, numerous US Fringe Festivals, Live 305

Entertainment and Sea World; and Keaton M. Hentoff-Killian who has spent the last six years performing with world-renowned Circa.

"Expect great music, extravagant costumes, and escalating energy within a theatre set unlike anything you've ever seen. If you've ever been to a wilder party - you're under arrest!" said Director Scott Maidment.

Back by popular demand, Maho Magic Bar will again sit alongside the Spiegeltent in a bespoke Japanese venue. Setting the night ablaze like a neon-lit happy snap of Shinjuku, Maho Magic Bar is unmissable with fresh tricksters, fresh tricks, even fresher cocktails, and the ultimate line-up of sleightof-hand superstars.

Be transported to a neonlit Tokyo night of mischief, amazement, cocktails and laughter. Get ready to disbelieve your eyes as Japan's very best perform exclusive magic shows at your table. Be inches from the action (and sometimes even closer!) as these magical masters work at point-blank range, putting a wild contemporary spin on Japan's magic traditions.

Part show. Part bar. All magic!

Tickets for THE PARTY and Maho Magic Bar are now available at www.strutnfret.com/ spiegeltentnewcastle

Women In Sport

offers something for everyone, such as community activities, 80’s skaties, a sports exhibition and more! Come along and get involved!

THE GUM BALL

BUMPER LINE UP FOR 2023

We're pretty fortunate in the Hunter Valley to host some great annual events, but one of the most treasured must be The Gum Ball Now celebrating its 18th year, the weekendlong cultural escape has built an enviable reputation across Australia (and the world) for its grassroots evolution into a supreme boutique family-friendly offering tucked away at Dashville, the 100-acre bushland venue and campground at Lower Belford.

Held over the last weekend of the April school holidays, 21-23 April 2023, this year is a bumper year, with over 40 acts across the three days, including one of Australia's greatest rock acts, Baby Animals, alongside other high-profile acts such as American band Mudhoney, Canadian band The Sheepdogs, Paul Dempsey, Ainslie Wills and even Bob Starkie's Skyhooks Show!

The laid-back camping festival offers up a myriad of adventure and activities for all ages, alongside a broad range of music styles, one by one, creating something for everyone and testament to the offering, comes the welcome news that the festival was successful in their application to the NSW Government's Regional Events Acceleration Fund, receiving funding support to assist in increasing inclusivity and accessibility for patrons at the event.

This means the festival team have been hard at work completing venue upgrades and building pathways and podiums, with a vision to become a fully accessible venue for the public in 2023 and beyond.

While it is typically a camping festival, there is also an option for single-day tickets and accessible public transport options. Organisers encourage those requiring special assistance to contact the venue if they'd like a site inspection before the event.

Parents listen up as the festival also has a pretty impressive Youth Mentorship opportunity for budding young teenagers interested in music! It's known as The Young Gums, and applications are now open until 20 March.

The immersive project selects ten teenagers who take a five-day journey alongside music professionals, culminating in a main-stage performance on the festival's final day.

For more information on The Gum Ball, go to www.thegumball.com.au.

THE FUN STARTS HERE!

Newcastle is proud to be hosting the season-opening race of the Supercars Championship, though there will be just as much action happening off the racetrack.

The Sheepdogs

Images supplied by The Gum Ball

Newcastle Fringe 2023

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

NEWCASTLE'S OWN FRINGE FESTIVAL, NEWCASTLE FRINGE, IS ENTERING ITS 8TH YEAR, BIGGER AND BRIGHTER THAN EVER BEFORE. A RISING STAR ON THE INTERNATIONAL FRINGE TOURING CIRCUIT, IT HAILS ITSELF AS AUSTRALIA'S BIGGEST LITTLE FRINGE FESTIVAL, AND IT SMASHES INTO THE CITY OVER TWO WEEKENDS FROM 9 TO 19 MARCH

The city will be buzzing with a plethora of entertainment options to suit every taste, with 398 amazing local and international artists and 135 performances of 55 individual acts. Newcastle Fringe Chair, Brooke Twyford, notes that the festival continues to grow yearly, and this is, again, the biggest it has presented.

"Our stellar line-up includes 13 side-splitting comedians, 14 musical artists covering both original and much-loved compositions from baritone to soprano and from ukuleles to rock bands, nine flirty adult-only cabaret and burlesque shows, nine serious and not-so-

#NEWYFRINGE23

serious theatre acts and an award-winning flamenco dancer, six community choirs and, ta-da, four shows specially designed for kids of all ages.

WHAT IS FRINGE?

Fringe Festivals began with the inception of Edinburgh Fringe in 1947. The core of the Fringe ideology is to provide access and opportunities for emerging artists and to celebrate the diversity and talent of each city's local and aspiring arts scene.

Fringe festivals come in all shapes and sizes and are born out of passion and hard work, passion for creative development and expression, for creating a platform for artists to perform and for art to be enjoyed, and for seeing and realising new ideas and initiatives. Fringe festivals have a reputation for presenting the cutting-edge, the uncensored, the quirky, the naughty and the undiscovered genius.

NEWCASTLE FRINGE

Newcastle Fringe was founded in 2016 and has continued to grow in size and diversity year

after year, even through COVID. Organised and run annually by a passionate and committed volunteer Board, the festival is supported by the community and the generosity of corporate sponsors and partners who make each year possible.

In 2022 the festival sold 4,542 tickets, attracted 1,135 visitors to the city, and returned earnings to artists of over $67,000. The success of this tiny volunteer organisation attracted the attention of local award-winning agency Engineroom Design, which partnered with the festival and developed a fresh brand redesign to breathe new life into the festival's marketing.

This year the festival is also supported by the City of Newcastle. Cr Carol Duncan said Newcastle Fringe aligns with the city's strategy to attract locals and visitors into the CBD and Hamilton precincts at night, supporting local businesses and jobs.

"March is set to see the city attract visitors from near and far with the return of Newcastle Fringe and the Newcastle 500, following a three-year hiatus due to Covid-disruptions," Cr Duncan said.

The Quokkas

"Newcastle Fringe will add to the vibrancy of the city's already rich arts and cultural scene and provide a wonderful cultural offering for locals and visitors to our city."

Other changes for the festival this year include a merchandise range featuring the new colourful logo with t-shirts, coffee mugs, tote bags, and even baby wear! Head to www. newcastlefringe.com.au to purchase.

INTERNATIONAL ACTS

This is the first time since 2019 that Newcastle Fringe has been able to welcome back international artists now that the borders have reopened following the pandemic. One of the most exciting international acts is Flamencodanza, an award-winning performance of inspired, powerful and elegant Flamenco dance and guitar by Aylin Bayaz and Raul Mannola, direct from Spain. Awarded Best Dance and Physical Theatre Show at The Hollywood Fringe in 2022, this show has been presented worldwide and fuses elements of Flamenco, Brazilian music and jazz. A show for lovers of dance, guitar and world music, there is

CELLO

2.30pm, Sunday, Mar 26

Christ Church Cathedral

Anthea Scott-Mitchell, Gavin Clark (cello) David Banney (conductor)

nothing 'emerging' about these artists – they are the real deal.

It is common for international artists to tour the Fringes, which is what Sylvia Brecko from Germany is doing. Her show Fur Baby is showing here first, for one show only before heading on to Adelaide Fringe, where she is a regular fan favourite. A very talented singer and cabaret performer, if you love your pet, you'll love this show. And another performer hitting the Adelaide Fringe stage is Alice Fraser: Twist. Fraser divides her time between the UK and Australia between co-hosting Andy Zaltzman's cult The Bugle podcast and television appearances (Amazon Prime, ABCTV). Named one of The Telegraph UK's Best Shows Of Edinburgh Fringe in 2022, Fraser delivers a "breathtakingly funny" gut-punching comedy show that spans the satirical, social, philosophical and personal.

ONE SHOW ONLY

Several shows appear for one performance only, and you'll only get one chance to see them, so bookings are advised. Kicking off the

festival is Dane Simpson in Didgeridoozy

The 'massively talented' indigenous comedian, all the way from Wagga, has won a stack of comedy awards and performs regularly on TV and at Fringe and comedy festivals across the country. He is definitely one not to miss; he's an A-lister.

Other one-show-only gigs are the Australian Ukulele Orchestra, who will astound you with their repertoire and the sound that's possible from this quirky little instrument; Spooky Men's Chorale who were a sell-out at last year's festival and The Whole Shebang – also a 2022 festival sell-out that features all female comedy and raises money for women in crisis. The Quokkas, who were Best Album nominees for the 2022 Kids Music Awards, and are on a mission to break down barriers and celebrate inclusiveness, are an absolute highlight of the kids' program, appearing for one show only at Hamilton Uniting Church on 18 March.

Silverchair holds a special place in the heart of all Novocastrians, and Chicks Cover the Chair features an incredible one-off showcase of all female-fronted bands, where the chicks

VIVALDI Cello Concerto in F

BRUCH Kol Nidrei

COLERIDGE-TAYLOR Noveletten

BANNEY Rumble (World Premiere)

WIREN Serenade

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

Flamencodanza

Image by Rich Clark

Hummingsong Community Choir

pay homage to the band that put Newy on the international music map. At the other end of the musical spectrum, Newcastle Fringe founder Phil Aughey performs his intelligent, intimate and intense show that has been performed at Fringe Festivals all over the world - Chopin's Last Tour. The show explores the year leading up to Frederic Chopin's death and is interspersed with Aughey's incredibly talented piano playing.

The mini-choir festival that ran at last's year's Fringe and was a sell-out success will run again this year and features Song Sisters, Heathens & Hunter Singers, Hummingsong and Newcastle Chamber Choir. A day of joyful song and musical connection for lovers of choral music at Hamilton Uniting Church on 18 March.

$50 VIP TICKETS - GUARANTEED FRONT SECTION SEATS

This year you can buy guaranteed frontsection tickets to some of the most in-demand shows, including Spooky Men's Chorale,

Red Light Confidential and Bur-Roque. Both Red Light Confidential and Bur-Roque have a debauched, burlesque flavour, with the former including burlesque, circus, cabaret, music, comedy and magic and billed as the perfect XXX-rated late-night cherry on your Fringe flavoured cake. Bur-Roque is a kinky comedy show with live punk/rock music by The Cunning Stunts, a 3-piece band. Go on a saucy bender with a 70/80s backing track led by Sophie Cook, who was last year's Best Individual Performer at Newcastle Fringe. Rated M. You'll need to fill a table of 4 to qualify for the VIP $50 pp ticket at both these shows.

GIGGLES GALORE

Always a Fringe favourite, comedy and standup are the backbone of festivals worldwide. Get your fill of giggles with this year's great selection of shows. Local girls Eddy Rockefeller and Loz Budden are featuring their new shows. In The Loop with Eddy Rockefeller features this talented stand-up and muso in an adultonly comedy spectacular – raunchy and

irreverent. 9 Lives Presented By Loz Budden takes us back to the '80s when life was simple, free, wild and untamed, with rules no one followed.

Comedy often blossoms out of an unusual perspective of a common situation. In What's Mine Is Yours, Annabelle James reveals how she was left at the 'comedy altar' in this Sydney Fringe sell-out show. For those of a certain age, Kelly Mac: Wrong Side of 50 takes us on a riotous romp through the quirks and perks of middle age - nominated for Best Comedy at Sydney Fringe 2022. Also on the subject of age is the Grande Dame of comedy, Di Barkus and her one-woman show Oops! In the Age of Viagra where she shares her secrets of sex and celibacy. And don't miss Work Hacks From The Holy Book, which is brought to you by Sydney's only Lebanese, lesbian, ex-Jehovah's Witness, comedian Naomi Mourra who shares how the Bible helped her in the holiest of careers in Human Resources.

In true Fringe style, there are comedians performing their debut and those that are

Spooky Men's Chorale

more experienced. Frankie Fearce debuts in Are You a Boy or a Girl? with side-splitting wit, humour and insight into the queer gender non-conforming experience. Then there's the comedian and journalist Matt Harvey in Wage Against the Machine. Harvey is an experienced comedian who performs at festivals across the country and beyond – this is a comedy to get you thinking.

KIDS ARE CATERED FOR

There are four kids shows this year, including The Quokkas listed above. For the kids who love it disgusting, with oooey, gooey, yucky, slimy topics and boogers, bottoms, pop-offs and smells, comes Mr Snotbottom, the Prince of Putrid, The Willy Wonky of Weird! Then there's Jack the Silly-Yak, who has been diagnosed with Coeliac Disease and is finding it tricky to like his new food. This interactive show with dancing, big imaginations, creative fingers, and loud singing includes a Creative Play Session

after. For those kids who love music, singalongs and magical experiences, join the fun in LizzieLand

HIGHLIGHTS OF THEATRE, CABARET & MUSIC

There are too many shows to list them all here, but some deserve special mention. When it comes to classical music, you're in good hands with Electro Lieder and Hunter Wind Quintet. If you want to get down and dance, don't miss Midnight Removalists, Reckless Empire, Kahibah Brass Kills the Radio Star and Pilot Buffalo Teen Band. If original music and killer vocals are your thing, don't miss Powerhouse by Li Laurent and Eddy Rockefeller, or if you prefer lyrics to make you laugh and think, Fringe favourites Clark Gormley and Wayne Thompson are back with their latest 'Nerds' show You Can't Polish a Nerd.

Cabaret is king at Fringe, and this year doesn't disappoint with Black Starr Cabaret and Doll Haus Cabaret returning to keep things flirty and sexy. Tap your foot to Bossa Nova beats with Hip Gringos Guide to Rio, and from the producer of Mad Bitches Inc. comes Strange Men – a journey into masculinity with primal drum rhythms and funny jokes. For award-winning cabaret, Apocalypse Please is likely to sell out as it's a combination of burlesque, comedy, stripping, singing and storytelling!

When it comes to theatre, Newcastle is blessed. Winner of the 2022 World Monologue Games, Lou Chapman presents the Lou Chapman Show, an evolving theatrical feast of dangerous ideas and misfit characters in a hilarious rant against everything. Kali Girl: A Love Story with a Dead Ending is billed as a gothic sci-fi romance that riffs off Wuthering Heights and features a live band with demonic dance! There's satire with Ita's Last Dance and The Tale of The Great Emu War, physical theatre with The Red Light that promises to be hilarious and lots more.

FREE ENTERTAINMENT

Ticket prices at Newcastle Fringe range from free to $50, with most shows sitting around $20 to $30. This year a Hamilton Hub will be created on James Street Plaza on Saturday, 11 March (6-8pm) and Saturday, 18 March (12pm-1pm and again at 6-8pm). The Fringe Ticket Box will be open, where you can purchase tickets to Fringe Festival shows and be entertained by FREE family entertainment. It's a great chance to see some of the artists performing at this year's festival. There will be something for the whole family ranging from children's comedy and theatre, magic, singing, music, circus, face painting, and, to top it off, a fire show at dusk. Download the complete Fringe program and purchase tickets at www.newcastlefringe. com.au, or keep your eyes open at your local cafes, library or tourist information centre for printed booklets. This is your Fringe Festival – get amongst it, have fun and support the participating artists.

Delprat Cottage & Gardens

Restoring degraded land in a beautiful, expressive, and educative manner.

MARCH OPEN DAY

Dates: Sat 4 & Sun 5 March 2023

Times: 10am to 4pm

Location: 133A Ingall St, North Mayfield

For further information please see www.delpratgarden.com.au

Dane Simpson in Didgeridoozy

Sylvia Brecko in Fur Baby

Get to Know Your NEWCASTLE JETS

Trent Buhagiar grew up in Umina on the Central Coast and was raised in a football family, with his older brothers and parents all involved in the sport.

At the age of five, Buhagiar began his footballing journey at Umina United Eagles, where he played until he was 12. He trained with the Central Coast Football academy as a junior player before transferring to the Central

Coast Mariners Academy and beginning his professional career for the Mariners. After playing for the Mariners from a young age, Buhagiar transferred to Sydney FC, where he played for three years.

“I played in an ACL [Asian Champions League] tournament and scored five goals in six games, which was a cool experience,” said Trent.

Buhagiar signed with the Newcastle Jets last year for the 2022/2023 season, where he scored his second goal in Jets colours against his former club.

“It was a weird feeling scoring against the Mariners, but you are always versing your old clubs, so it’s natural,” said Trent.

Buhagiar has scored five goals for the Jets so far, with his most recent goal the match-winner in last week’s win over Macarthur in the longest match in history.

Buhagiar says the transition to Newcastle has been seamless, and he is well suited to the city.

“Newcastle is a really nice place to live, it has a very chill vibe, and I’ve been enjoying my time here so far,” said Trent.

“Newcastle has been great so far; it is such a great group of boys, everyone is close, and it’s always a laugh in the changeroom. We are also serious on the pitch and bring lots of intensity to training. We try to bring out the best in each other.”

Buhagiar has taken up the hobby of playing golf in his spare time, playing regularly with some of his teammates. He also likes to spend downtime watching tv shows and playing Call of Duty and FIFA with his friends.

Get along to a home game and watch Trent in action (see below).

WORDS DANIELLA FLAMIATOS

ALEXANDRA FORD AND SASKIA ELLIS

Alexandra Ford and Saskia Ellis will collaborate through a Propel Choreographic residency to develop a new dance theatre work. The Propel program brings two artists together to develop choreographic ideas, movement material and thematic ideas – sparking new artistic directions. Supported by the Australian Council for the Arts.

HYSTERIA

Hysteria is a new work, created by Angelyn Diz, Alysha Fewster and Jasmin Sheppard that explores themes of the meaning of being a woman. The raw piece work of work showcases fragility, strength, vulnerability, and connection to the earth as a woman. Supported by the Australia Council for the Arts.

FRAGILE

The story follows the young protagonist Fragile as she evaluates themes of childhood loneliness. Through the creation of an imaginary world to escape, Fragile provides an experience of dance and visual media that focuses on themes of bullying and finding your own path in life.

Supported by Create NSW Project Funding.

ENA MALIBU

Ena Malibu is a first nations singer/songwriter with an upcoming EP. Ena will be working with Ashley de Prazer and Cadi McCarthy as collaborators to create a series of film clips to coincide with the music launch.

Supported by the Australian Council for the Arts.

KRISTINA CHAN

Kristina Chan will develop a new inter-generational dance-on-film project with Catapult’s Creative Kids, The Flipside Project, Catapult’s Adult community, and regional communities, to create new site-specific environmental work.

Supported by the City of Newcastle.

SHADOW BOX

Shadow Box is a work where performers react to a multi-media design that is projected onto a white cube, while encapsulated inside. To build audience capacity and community engagement it will be placed across di erent Newcastle locations.

Supported by the City of Newcastle.

Marcia Hines Stars WITH DAZZLING ARRAY OF TALENT IN

Dust off your platform heels, shine up those sparkly sequins and get ready to dance Newcastle because the disco sensation and smash hit that is Velvet Rewired is heading to town with a 5-day season at the Civic Theatre from 19 April – and it promises to be a sell-out!

Australia’s own original disco diva and Queen of Pop, Marcia Hines, heads up a stellar cast and crew of consummate performers and creatives as they return to touring Australia six years after the original Velvet was born into the sequins and the disco dust of the Adelaide Fringe in 2015.

This fresh, totally reinvented extension of the Velvet journey continues to chart the progress of a young man on his path of self-discovery. He returns to the club known as ‘Velvet’ and is again embraced by its inhabitants. Blind to colour, creed, class, gender, size and sexuality,

Velvet Rewired continues the underlying theme of celebration, family and freedom. In an age of uncertainty and compromise, it’s a story of hope, resilience and bravery as the production rolls the dice on recovery, ticket sales and a future for Australian theatre.

Velvet Rewired fuses music, circus and burlesque, and this disco inferno results in an insatiably flawless theatrical experience with a dazzling array of acrobats, aerialists, amazing vocalists, glitz, glamour and jaw-dropping circus skills that are not to be missed.

The show was developed by Rix Management Live Experiences, which has been the management behind Marcia Hines for five decades. The Director, Craig Ilott, the Musical Director, Joe Accaria, Marcia Hines, and Guinness World Record breaker, hula hoop artist Craig Reid were all involved with the original Velvet production. Ilott brings his awardwinning, multi-genre directorial experience to

lead an extraordinarily talented team in creating this feel-good disco phenomena.

“When you find people that you like to work with, you gravitate toward them,” said Hines.

“That’s what we did with Velvet. This show was my manager Peter Rix’s idea in the first place and was superbly directed by Craig. The Musical Director and the DJ in the show, Joe Accaria, has continued to work with me on other projects, including The Gospel According to Marcia. We’ll be touring that next year and releasing the album.

“It becomes like a family when you work a lot with a group of people – whether you like it or not! It includes all the idiosyncrasies you get with a family, but it’s a good thing – we all get along well, and it’s an artistic process, so it’s beautiful.”

Hines is understandably proud of the production and the message it attempts to deliver, which is to learn to be yourself.

“I think learning to be yourself should be the message behind every show. To thine own self be true, you know? In the case of Velvet Rewired, it’s about a boy who comes into an environment kind of lost and finds himself through song and dance. The show is a celebration of that, and it’s a great time for everyone – performers and audience. Ames Browne has done a fabulous job with the costumes – they are amazing, and this time round we have skaters – the incredible Skating Willers. They’re a little bit scary. Every night we hear the audience gasp and go ‘whoa!’ – which is a great thing!”

Indeed, in this production, the music takes equal billing beside the dancing, acrobatics and circus skills. Besides the extraordinary, heartattack-inducing skating sequence, there are two aerialists who leave the audience gasping. Beau Sargent originally trained with the Australian Ballet, and it shows.

His grace, sass and mesmerising skills are pure magic and very beautiful. Harley Timmermans is a graduate of the National Institute of Circus Arts and thrills with his charismatic and smouldering performance. The hoola-hoop artist Craig Reid is a firm audience favourite with a fun, cheeky personality and an undeniable world-class talent with hoops, gymnastics, comedy and dance.

Jacinta Gulisano and Sasha Lee Saunders star as the Sirens, singing and dancing almost non-stop throughout the whole performance. Simple backup singers, they are not, with moves and voices to hold the audience in their sway and to keep the disco jive pumping all the way. Amy Campbell’s choreography and the music provide the glue that holds the whole together, while Matt Marshall’s lighting

design evokes the very essence of a 70’s disco/ nightclub.

Joe Accaria’s DJ character and talent as a Musical Director are the very foundation of the production. This Helpmann award-winning and Aria-nominated musical talent has a veritable who’s who list of credits and collaborators. A very talented orchestral percussionist, Accaria ensures the rhythm of the music; his bongos and his electric drum solos reach into your soul as he spins the tunes from high above the stage. Don’t forget to look up – you won’t want to miss some of his costume changes.

The soundtrack to this production is excellent and will have everyone dancing in their seats, if not the aisles. Tom Sharah, who plays the protagonist of the show, is a critically acclaimed cabaret and musical theatre performer who holds his own on a stage that he shares with the unparalleled singing talent of Marcia Hines. Sharah brings a touch of musical

theatre to the songs he sings, with an emotional range that acts as the perfect counterpart to the strength and energy of Hines.

The disco tracks of this show are right in Hines’ wheelhouse. With songs such as Ain’t Nobody, Don’t Leave Me This Way, Disco Inferno, No More Tears, You, Born to be Alive, Boogie Wonderland, If You Could Read My Mind and Turn the Beat Around, Hines is right at home after a career spanning five decades and 22 albums with 2.6 million copies sold. Inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 2007, she also received the Order of Australia (AM) in 2009 for her services to the entertainment industry and continues to reinvent herself and her career with absolutely no signs that she is turning 70 years young this July.

“I don’t think disco ever went out of style,” said Hines. “Parents have driven their kids crazy with this music, they’ve often heard it in film soundtracks, and it’s still relevant, which is a

very good thing. And when it comes to my age, I’ve just been blessed with great genes. There are no concessions for my age when it comes to workload and commitment. The young kids get tired, too, and that’s really nice to know!”

Hines is looking forward to the Newcastle season and sees it as a chance to catch up with girlfriends.

“I used to live at Whitebridge, just outside Newcastle city, and I miss the beaches. It was a very beautiful place to come home to and a lovely place to live. I still have several friends there that I talk to on the phone all the time. It will be nice to catch up.”

One thing is certain, Newcastle audiences are in for a treat. Velvet Rewired has always been a nightclub, a state of mind and a fantasy. It’s an exhilarating night of fun, funk and fabulous music. With only seven performances, if you want to join this party, you’ll need to get your tickets early.

Images supplied by Rix Management

Do

Keep on Motoring in Wallsend

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

The Wallsend Town Business Association (WTBA) aims to promote the development, beautification, and advancement of local businesses within the area through a coordinated and structured promotion, advocacy and planning program. Local business owners and members of WTBA work hard to ensure that Wallsend remains a wonderful place to live, work and play. The result is a village community that engenders a strong loyalty to its local businesses and celebrates its breadth of diversity and multiculturalism.

Wallsend, once located on what was considered the outskirts of the city of Newcastle, is now becoming more central as the city and its population grow outward. This became obvious to the owners of Goodyear Auto Care, Scott and Corrina.

"I grew up in Wallsend, and I didn't see the potential the way my husband did when we took over the business," said Corrina.

"We now own five outlets across the Newcastle area, and Wallsend is our busiest by far, even though it's located on an industrial estate. It's a very friendly and supportive community, and it's

where the families live, and that's what we're all about – making sure that we look after people. We offer free rotation and balance for the lifetime of tyres when they're purchased through us because we want to provide maximum value and safety for our community."

It's a sign of how big the population is growing that the town supports nine automotive businesses, including C&C Mechanical, Hughes Ron Auto Repairs, Scott Forbes Auto, Burton Ross Automotive Services, MyCar Tyre & Auto C E Wallsend, Wallsend Mechanical, Car Paint Repairs What Scratch?, MP Auto Glass and, of course, Goodyear Auto Care Wallsend.

According to Krissy from C&C Mechanical, these automotive businesses all refer business to each other if they are too busy to take on a job.

"We all help each other," said Krissy.

"We love the sense of community here, but we also get a lot of customers from outside the area too. It was my husband's dream to own his own business and to be successful right here in Wallsend. We take a lot of pride in the honesty and integrity of our business, and we love being part of this special place."

2023

By Arrangement

ORiGiN™ Theatrical.

DIAL M MURDER for

SEASON

18 March to 1 April

90 DeVitre St Lambton Bookings: Ph. 4952 4958 or online at newcastletheatrecompany.com.au

MID-WEEK SPECIAL: all tickets on Wednesdays $30

Dial M for Murder

The play is set in the London home of a wealthy couple, former professional tennis player Tony Wendice and his wife, Margot.

Tony learns that Margot has had an affair with American crime writer Max Halliday and, hell-bent on revenge and determined to inherit her fortune, he blackmails an old acquaintance into murdering her.

But there is no such thing as the perfect crime, and despite Tony’s meticulous planning, things do not go according to plan.

Full of plot twists and hitches and offering laughs as well as thrills, this play is inspired by Alfred Hitchcock’s classic 1954 film of the same name, which starred Grace Kelly and Ray Milland.

For tickets and more info, visit www.newcastletheatrecompany. com.au

WHAT: Dial M for Murder

WHEN: 18 March – 1 April (Matinees 2pm; Evenings 8pm)

WHERE: Newcastle Theatre Company, 90 De Vitre St, Lambton TICKETS: $35pp/$40pp. All Wednesday performances are $30 pp.

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PROGRAM

Kooragang Island

The first round of funding for Orica’s 2023 Community Investment Program is now open, with grants of up to $10,000 available to eligible local community groups.

The Orica Community Investment Program supports initiatives that promote education and lifelong learning, improve and protect the environment, and build strong communities.

Application forms and supporting documents are available at orica.com/kooragang

Applications for this round of funding will close on 31 March with successful recipients notified in April.

Directed by Julie Black, this retro crime thriller features all the allure and mystery of jealousy, deceit and blackmail.

Directed by Julie Black

with

On Behalf of Samuel French. A Concord Theatricals Company

READ ONLINE

East Coast Car Rentals Newcastle Supporting Regional Destinations with 13th Location Opening

Voted Australia’s Best Car Rental Service for another consecutive year, East Coast Car Rentals is excited to be supporting the growing needs and future development of regional Australia with the official opening of their newest location in Newcastle.

“This exciting new venture provides a fresh opportunity to showcase our award-winning services to leisure travellers seeking to explore the beautiful city and its surrounds and to support the local community and businesses of Newcastle,” says Sales Director and long-time local, Roberto Mignanelli.

“Whether visiting family, recommencing business-related travel, or purely leisure, we are witnessing a continued strong and steady increase in demand for rental cars across all 13 of our locations,” adds CEO Dan Kearney.

“It is essential we continue to support the growth of both city and regional destinations throughout Australia. It is an important initiative and a key focus as we continue our growth into 2023 and beyond, especially as the international market ramps up.”

“Over the past 12 months, we have nearly doubled our car rental fleet – a successful feat that has not come easy given the current climate faced in buying new

vehicles. We have grown from 150 to 250 employees nationwide, branched into commercial vehicles and car subscription, and opened three new branches in 2022, including Newcastle.”

East Coast Car Rentals brings a welcome range of services, including Car Subscription and tailored Corporate Car Rental plans to help ease the difficulties with purchasing new or used cars, with wait periods on some makes and models exceeding 18 months.

The recent expansion into Newcastle is in direct response to the growing leisure and corporate car rental demand and is reflective of the wider success story and achievements of the company.

“Expanding into new locations strengthens our commitment to supporting domestic and international travel throughout regional Australia, and there’s no slowing down,” says Roberto.

East Coast Car Rentals is a locally owned business operating out of Australia and New Zealand, offering a brand new fleet, including Utes and Electric Vehicles, amongst the new range of family-size SUVs and economical runabouts. East Coast Car Rentals Newcastle is located at 849 Hunter Street, Newcastle West. Ph: 1800 028 881.

L-R: Roberto Mignanelli, Kirsty Phillips, Dan Gardoll, Dan Kearney.

E A T D rin k

Taste and Create

AT THE FESTIVAL OF TWO PALETTES

One of the Hunter region’s prime destinations, Morpeth Gallery is home to many fabulous artworks, such as South Australian artist John McCartin’s ‘Shimmering Blue’, which has just won a major award in America.

The gallery will host the annual Festival of Two Palettes on Saturday, 11 and Sunday, 12 March. Incorporating the art palette with the food and wine palate allows visitors to see paint slide over the canvas to form an image of beauty in front of their eyes.

Fourteen of Australia’s finest artists will be painting at their easels so you can learn

directly from the masters about their techniques, subjects, and achievements! Being highly acclaimed in their chosen field of art, the artists are truly amazing to watch as they peacefully work away. In addition, each artist has donated a miniature painting to be given away through raffle draws. You don’t want to miss this!

Don’t forget about the food either! Morpeth Gourmet Foods will supply plenty of sweet and savoury treats, making the perfect accompaniment to art.

For more information, visit www.morpethgallery.com

An Authentic corner of Italy on Beaumont Street. Featuring Roman pizza, hand-made pasta, antipasti and desserts, all home-made from scratch with love.

John McCartin’s Shimmering Blue

From Pasture to Palate

WORDS LIANE MORRIS

Parched Crow Wines may be a relatively new player in the Hunter's extensive wine offerings, but its vines have a history that promises great things. Owners Ross Crump and Lisa Hugo have a vision that extends far beyond a boutique winery, and with a new General Manager, up-and-coming wine industry professional Grace Eglit on board to help realise the vision, it's one to watch.

Located on the Tarin Grove Estate and situated at the foothills of the majestic Brokenback range, the newly renovated and charming cellar door boasts panoramic views of the impressive Hunter Valley.

Ross Crump is no newbie to the wine industry. He grew up locally at Wollombi on his father's dairy and cattle farm before starting his working life in the '70s with Hermitage Estate and Oakvale Wines.

Here he learnt the complete wine-making process, including the commercial and retail side of the business. An accountant by trade, he's also worked in local government, but the bulk of his career has been spent as a Marketing Consultant to the coal mining

industry, travelling the world and developing the crucial international relationships that the industry depends on.

In 2005 Crump began acquiring property to run Angus beef and now has 3,000 acres of grazing property with over 1200 head of cattle under the banner of Tarin Grove Farms. The properties include the iconic Old McDonalds Flat at Pokolbin (granted to the McDonald family in 1825), Orange Grove at Paterson and East View at Lostock. Along with the purchase of these properties, Crump found himself the custodian of some precious vines with a solid foundation in history – 15 acres from the McDonald's Flat Vineyard planted by Stephen Drayton in the '90s, five acres from the former Thalgara Estate planted by the Tullochs in the '60s, and 20 acres that made up part of the Oakey Creek Vineyard planted by W Drayton & Sons in the '80s.

"I'm a sucker for history," said Crump.

"I really believe in the historical continuance of the land, its role in tourism and the significance of the vines that came with the properties I purchased. This land has a long history of beef and wine growing, and I want to

bring that back. It's important to me to support the industry and protect the vineyards. Simply on-selling the grapes is a profitless venture, so, to make a return, we settled on the vertical integration of making wine."

The development of the wine brand is a story in itself that Crump loves to tell and that visitors to the cellar door will find enshrined on the wall as they enjoy their tastings.

"In 2017, the vineyards and surrounds were in the grip of the worst drought in 100 years. McDonald's Flat, part of our farm, was denuded of any pasture as one of the hottest and driest summers on record prevailed. Just like the Exodus when we were on our knees, bereft of rain, a plague of grasshoppers arrived and quickly got about eating any remaining pasture.

"The vineyards were struggling for a drop of natural moisture; fruit was ripening and set for picking. Eureka! A flock of more than 200

Ross Crump Image by Love Anna

Parched Crow Wines Pokolbin Cellar Door Image by The Wine Photography Studio

crows arrived in mid-January and set about balancing their protein diet by devouring the grasshoppers by day. All was good, but the crow is the mortal enemy of vignerons at harvest time.

"The crows, having quelled their hunger, looked to the north, and low and behold, the sweet nectar of nearby ripening grapes beckoned! Pre sunset, they flew less than 400m and descended on the vineyards to quench their insatiable thirst for the sweet taste of super ripe Shiraz grapes ready for picking.

"By day, protein laid on with grasshoppers aplenty; by afternoon and dusk, an unending supply of wine in its rawest form. Sweet grapes. Nero, like, they took their fill.

"Comme ci comme ça."

Despite drought, grasshoppers, crows, fire, and covid, Parched Crow Wines managed to launch their new brand of wine, named after those parched crows, and develop their cellar door. All grapes are estate-owned and grown and feature model Hunter varietals such as Shiraz, Semillon, Chardonnay and Muscat, with the wines produced also including Rosé and Moscato.

Two new products soon to be launched include the 2022 Sogni D'oro at $25 a bottle (a mistelle-style aperitif wine best served chilled or on ice with a slice of blood orange or a refreshing spritz with soda water) and the 2022 Shiraz Nouveau at $30 a bottle (bright violets on the nose and boasts a delicate palate of soft cherries with a finely textured and elegant

finish). All the wines are single vineyard and have been overseen by the best of the best Hunter Valley Winemakers; Liz Silkman, Xanthe Hartcher and PJ Charteris.

Whilst a new wine label from these historical vines is exciting enough, the vision that Crump has for Tarin Grove Estate is far greater. Crump has had a new development approved by Cessnock City Council that will sit on 4 hectares opposite the Ben Ean cellar door and include four buildings. The vision is that these buildings will house a butchery selling Tarin Grove Pokolbin Beef, a wine outlet for some of the smaller boutique wineries, a restaurant and café and a brewery. Unfortunately, Covid held up the development, but Crump is eyeing 2024 as the year he will potentially begin building.

"We're keen to be a pasture-to-palate producer. Cattle, vineyards (grape sales), wine – we do it all! From my local agricultural beginnings, the land has been my home, and it's my mission to return the McDonald's Flat area back to its intended purpose. This land was always designated for beef and vineyards, and I'm quite partisan about it."

To help him realise this vision, Crump recently appointed a new General Manager, Grace Eglit, whose experience in cellar door operations, wine club management, brand development and marketing, not to mention her energy and drive, Crump sees as being crucial to the future of Parched Crow Wines. Previously, Eglit was PR and Marketing Manager for awardwinning boutique winery Briar Ridge.

"This is a rare and exciting opportunity to use my local tourism and wine industry knowledge to develop Parched Crow Wines to its full potential," said Eglit.

"At the moment, my priority is to raise brand awareness and grow foot traffic by leveraging and growing our social media, local events, and community involvement. We have a few picnic days planned that are yet to be launched, which will be a great opportunity for Hunter/ Newcastle residents to check us out. I believe that by increasing our presence in the local community, locals will resonate with who we are and what we produce. We are a lot of fun.

"Attracting locals from the Hunter, Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and other nearby regions is an important market for us. We're hoping that by offering more than wine in the future – the full pasture-to-palate experience will encourage customers to pop up to the valley regularly."

Whatever the future holds, right now, Parched Crow Wines is set in the charming and picturesque Tarin Grove Estate, boasting all the history the Hunter has to offer; fields of cattle and rows of vineyards all in the heart of Pokolbin. Experience a tasting in the newly renovated cellar door, take in the breathtaking views and discover the story of how The Parched Crow came to be for yourself. For opening times visit parchedcrow.withwine.com

Image by Love Anna

Grace Eglit

Image by Elfes Images

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Group Travel For a Hassle-Free Holiday

Solo travel has grown in popularity over the last few years and even more among 40+ women. There are plenty of reasons why this trend is only increasing in numbers, but what is certain is that group travel allows you to visit the most exotic destinations without worrying about too much planning, booking or last-minute changes. Plus, you meet other likeminded people who might become your new travel buddies.

Companies like Surf Getaways, a surf travel business run for women, by women, take group travel to the next level. Catered for women over 30 who are no longer

into hostel life, cheap food and big groups, their exclusive holidays offer a luxury experience in stunning destinations around the world. And there is a bonus that makes the experience even more exciting… you'll learn how to surf!

If that sounds like your dream holiday, then it might be the time to join them and have a once-in-alifetime adventure visiting magical places such as the Maldives, Mexico, Bali or Vanuatu.

Visit Surf Getaways' website and learn more about their destinations and tour inclusions at www.surfgetaways.com.au.

Best Cheats of 2023 (Part 1)

ONLINE

You may have noticed that we are in challenging times, with an emphasis on time. In fact, we’re all looking to save time, so with this in mind, I’ve compiled the best dental cheats that can save you time and save your teeth. The bacteria in dental plaque process carbohydrates to produce energy, giving off acids. These acids dissolve teeth and produce dental decay. If you have intense energy requirements, eliminating carbohydrates from your diet is not an option. What are realistic options?

1) Compartmentalize your eating. If you have a high energy need for your work, consume your meals (even if it is a full pack of timtams!) such that you have a window of 3-4 hours between meals. Feed the dental plaque less frequently, and you reduce the damage from acid attacks.

2) Drink water or make your own drinks for work. All of the commercially available flavoured drinks are full of sugar and acids. These drinks effectively fuel work; however, they effectively fuel decay and dental erosion. When I say soft drinks, I mean:

cordials, fruit juices, fizzy drinks of any sort (including fizzy water and all sugar-free drinks), kombucha and iced teas. There are two alternatives to help reduce damage:

a. Make your own iced tea and if you wish to sweeten it, use an artificial sweetener such as xylitol (xylitol actually reduces the bacterial plaque’s ability to create acids!).

b. Consume your soft drink with your meal. Then consume only water between meals. Tea and coffee without sugar are also OK.

3) Keep your consumption between meals as pristine as you can. Water or your own drinks that you know have no sugar or acidic preservatives. Zero-alcohol beer is also OK to drink – I know many would have mixed feelings about this!

4) Consider using a re-mineralizing chewing gum such as recaldent twice a day between meals.

5) Socially drink either beer or wine – both are teeth-friendly.

Remember – no amount of home care and cleaning can make up for errors in diet (this is the same if you wish to lose weight – you must focus on both diet and exercise).

In part 2 of best cheats for 2023, I’ll be talking about cheating on home care – so don’t miss the April issue!

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.

VIOLENCE LEAVE

SALLY DAVIES

Partner | Jenkins Legal Services

This article is not legal advice, and the views and comments are of a general nature only. This article is not to be relied upon in substitution for detailed legal advice.

1 February 2023 saw a key change in Family and Domestic Violence Leave rights for workers. The changes are happening in two stages:

• From 1 February 2023: full time, parttime and casual employees of ‘non-small business employers’ (employers with 15+ employees) are entitled to 10 days of paid family domestic violence leave annually.

• From 1 August 2023: employees of ‘small business employers’ (employers with fewer than 15 employees) are entitled to 10 days of paid family domestic violence leave annually.

Family and domestic violence are defined as “violent, threatening or other abusive behaviour by a close relative of an employee, a member of an employee’s household, or a current or former intimate partner of an employee, that seeks to coerce or control the employee, and causes the employee harm or to be fearful".

The employee is entitled to the leave if they are experiencing family and domestic violence and they need to do something to deal with the

impact of the family and domestic violence, and it is impractical for them to do that task outside the employee’s work hours.

Some examples of this in The Fair Work Act are arranging for the safety of the employee or a close relative (including relocation), attending court hearings, accessing police services, attending counselling or attending appointments with medical, financial or legal professionals.

The leave is a minimum entitlement for all employees falling under the National Employment Standards. The entitlement does not accrue from year to year and is available, in full, at the start of each 12-month period of the employee’s employment. The leave can be taken in any period of time as needed, anywhere from less than a day to a 10-day block, and the employee must comply with the notice requirements in The Fair Work Act.

We recommend that business owners familiarise themselves with the new entitlements and consider whether any changes need to be made to their documents, including the implementation of a policy outlining the procedure to apply for such leave.

If you need assistance in relation to employment law matters, please contact Jenkins Legal & Advisory on 02 4929 2000 or email office@jenkinslegal.com.au

www.jenkinslegal.com.au

On Tour With the Kid

Marie Kondo, the Queen of tidy, perfectly folded clothes and well-organised cupboards, admitted recently "she's kind of given up". She told the Washington Post that the change came about after the birth of her third child and that her house is messy. The woman who convinced the world to throw out anything that didn't spark joy is now tripping over kids' toys and shoes like the rest of us, and I, for one, could not be happier for her.

Don't get me wrong, for the 5 minutes a week that my house is perfectly tidy, it's lovely. But on the list of things that spark joy, a perfectly mopped floor or well-sorted Tupperware draw doesn't even crack the top five!

It did get me thinking about what does spark joy, though, and how much time I am consciously choosing to do those things. I had to admit that it's less than I would like, so I decided to change that.

Live shows and my love of music and theatre were instilled in me from a very early age by my mum, and this is something I want to share with the kid. We are so lucky in Newcastle to have venues like Lizotte's and Quirks in Abermain, where you can go as a family to

watch top-quality live acts. We also have a thriving local arts scene that ensures the attraction of sensational live theatre.

We recently saw Come From Away at the Civic Theatre. It dawned on me about 5 mins into the show how odd it was to be sitting through a show about the events of 9/11 with someone who hadn't even been born when they occurred. It is the thing about a beautifully told story; it's timeless. I can't wait to take her to Velvet Rewired at the Civic in April to transport her back to a time when disco was Queen. I have decided to go to Banging Denmark at the Playhouse without her because the other thing that sparks joy is the occasional night out with a cocktail in hand.

Aside from the kid, animals are the love of my life. Even before she was born, I used to drag my friends to the zoo and farms any chance I got. I was the kid who used to find a sick cat living in a drain and convince my mum we needed to keep it. One of those cats once

gave birth on my bed in the middle of the night, but that's a whole other story.

It's not even just domestic animals. The kid and I have annual passes to every zoo within driving distance and I recently had a chance to work on a shortterm project with Dog Rescue Newcastle, I was so in awe of the work they do.

We have just lost our own gorgeous 14-year-old dog, Diesel, who was originally a rescue. I know the kid would love a puppy, but I'm just not ready. We got a chance to visit with a litter of 12 puppies at Dog Rescue Newcastle recently. Not only are they looking for forever homes, but they need people to foster dogs in the interim. As I sat there and watched the kid smile and fall in love with these puppies, I realised nothing needed to be a definite no. Sometimes you just need to look at things differently.

I'm finding joy in the little things and occasionally tripping over a random shoe. Totally worth it.

PETS OF THE MONTH

Jezze is 18 months old, brave, smart and resilient. Jezze likes to hang out with you wherever you are; he wants to be there too. A fantastic little companion, he is quite talkative and loves a chat. Being young, he is still very playful. Due to his background, Jezze needs some time to settle and someone understanding of this, but once he is comfortable, he is an absolute delight.

Enola is a six-month-old staffy-cross who is an extremely affectionate girl who loves a cuddle. With these hot summer days, Enola is the perfect dog to take to the beach. Her favourite thing to do is to have a run on the sand and a splash in the water. Enola adores other dogs and would love to live with a fur friend. If your own dog is lonely, Enola could fill that gap. Enola is ready to have a loving family life.

JEZZE | Tuxedo Boy Looking

ENOLA | Sweet and Friendly

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY?

COMMUNITY TO HAVE ITS SAY ON FUTURE OF NEWCASTLE 500

Residents, businesses and racegoers are being invited to have their say on the future of the Newcastle 500 as community consultation on the event kicks off.

Submissions are now open for the online survey, which forms the first part of a comprehensive consultation strategy prepared and implemented by KPMG to guide the decision about future Newcastle 500 events in Newcastle.

The strategy was finalised after being placed on public exhibition for six weeks throughout December and January, with the online survey launched during bump-in for the Supercars season-opener event.

The survey can be completed via the City of Newcastle website until three weeks after the event, which is being held from 10-12 March 2023

In-person surveys around the event precinct during the race period will provide insight into attendee behaviours, including visitation to local businesses, while a random telephone survey will follow the event to capture a range of views from across Newcastle's demographic profile.

Three post-event stakeholder workshops will also be held with residents, business and

industry representatives to understand the perceived benefits and challenges presented by the Newcastle 500.

CEO Jeremy Bath said the feedback would help guide any decision made by City of Newcastle should Destination NSW and Supercars Australia propose a five-year contract extension of the event in Newcastle.

"The consultation will explore themes of liveability, economic benefit or challenges and perceptions of the event, as well as its impact on the visitor economy,” said Mr Bath.

A report on the feedback and insights from the community consultation to inform the decision about any potential extension of the Newcastle 500 will be prepared for Council to consider in the coming months.

In the meantime, get along to the event and experience it for yourself. Keep track of all the details across the weekend by visiting whatson. newcastle.nsw.gov.au

MITCH REVS PAINTED ELTON

JOHN PIANO TO GO UNDER THE HAMMER

A unique upright piano hand painted by renowned Newcastle artist Mitch Revs to honour Elton John's Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour will be auctioned at the Newcastle 500 this month to benefit women and children escaping domestic violence.

Donated by Venues NSW and Scentre Group, which commissioned the artwork for Elton John's crowd-drawing McDonald Jones Stadium appearances in January, the colourful and eclectic working piano is the centrepiece of the fourth annual charity function at Fort Scratchley on Saturday, 11 March

The fundraiser has garnered more than $61,000 to date for City of Newcastle's charity partners, Got Your Back Sista and Nova for Women and Children, thanks to the support of community and business leaders.

For the first time, bidding on this item will be open to the public online via www. airauctioneer.com to allow keen Elton John fans and collectors to get in on the action, with the piano on display at Westfield Kotara, Level 2 near Specsavers until the event.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle was thrilled to partner with both charities again for the event's highly anticipated return.

"We're proud to continue to support these local charities, which provide vital assistance to women and children in need," Cr Nelmes said.

"Unfortunately, domestic and family violence continues to affect too many people. This inaugural event was on White Ribbon Day and provided a unique opportunity to raise

Nova for Women and Children Team Leader Fiona Edwards, Got Your Back Sista Founder Melissa Histon, artist Mitch Revs, McDonald Jones Stadium Venue Manager Dean Mantle, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, and Westfield Kotara Centre Manager Kelly Lewis with the Elton John themed piano, which is being auctioned for charity.

Image by Salty Dingo

awareness and much-needed funds to help combat the issue. With drawcard prizes like this, we hope to raise lots of funds to support our local charities, Nova for Women and Children and Got Your Back Sista."

Bidding on the piano closes at 5pm, Saturday, 11 March, with the winner to be announced following the event.

LAKE MACQUARIE VISITOR INFORMATION HITS THE ROAD

Mobile visitor information kiosks will hit the road across Lake Mac in a first for the Hunter Region this weekend, spruiking the city's events and attractions at key visitor locations.

The two brightly coloured vans, funded by the NSW Government, mark a deliberate step away from the traditional visitor centre, taking tourism staff and volunteers' passion and knowledge to places they are most needed.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said visitor information would still be available at Swansea, but the changing needs and habits of tourists meant a static service centre was no longer attracting visitors, and mobile kiosks were an effective alternative.

"We want to make visitor information in Lake Mac more accessible to everyone," she said.

"These new mobile kiosks are small enough to fit in easily at our events, markets or in high-traffic areas during peak holiday periods, but they're also large enough to provide all the tourism info and literature you'd normally find at any Visitor Information Centre."

Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Arts, Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said mobile tourism kiosks were an industry-leading initiative and a first in the Hunter region. New 'Tourism Ambassador' volunteers will operate the kiosks.

"The combination of the kiosks and our Tourism Ambassador Education Program will help expand knowledge in Lake Macquarie's tourism and hospitality sector," Ms Hemsley said.

"It will also help operators understand how to target new visitors and capitalise on our wonderful attractions and offerings here."

Out-of-region visitation to the city has increased substantially since summer 2020, with Lake Mac now welcoming 1.35 million visitors a year. That number is expected to increase to 2.5 million visitors by 2032.

COMMUNITY FUNDING FOR VIBRANT AND LIVEABLE PLACES

More funding is now available to support a broad range of individuals and groups across Port Stephens. The Vibrant Spaces Fund and Community Support Fund close on 2 April 2023, with other funding streams open yearround.

Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says this funding is a chance to give back and support the Port Stephens community to create a vibrant place to live, work and visit.

"So far, we've been excited to award funding to heaps of different projects, including the Tilligerry Festival in November last year and an upcoming pathway project in Seaham," Mayor Palmer said.

"We really want to fund as many grassroots local projects that genuinely support local people across the whole LGA to bring life and vibrancy to our streets and neighbourhoods," he added.

Mayor Palmer said there's a great cross-section of funding streams available for anyone to apply, from individuals, artists, creatives, community groups, not-for-profits, businesses and students.

"It’s easy to apply, with our guidelines clearly explaining each funding program and what type of projects can be funded. Our team are also available to give you tips on ensuring your application is successful,” he said.

“We cannot wait to see some of the exciting new initiatives

that will boost our communities' social, cultural, environmental and economic life,” Mayor Palmer added.

To view the full range of funds available, view the guidelines or apply, visit portstephens.nsw. gov.au/funding.

CESSNOCK PCYC FUNDING BOOST

A Friday night activity program called U-NITES that helps to build community connection, resilience and a sense of belonging has been announced for young people in Cessnock.

The Minister for Regional Youth, Ben Franklin, announced the program will receive $35,072 thanks to the NSW Government's Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery initiative.

"Young people are key to maintaining vibrant regional communities, and the NSW Government is committed to ensuring regional youth have all the tools they need to grow into their best selves," Mr Franklin said.

James Frecklington from the Cessnock PCYC says the U-NITES program will engage young people through fun activities.

"Each week, for a few hours on a Friday night, we'll help provide entertainment for young people in the region with rock climbing, skating and gymnastics, and we'll also use the time to discuss important things like crime prevention and well-being," Mr Frecklington said.

"It's a multifaceted program that fills a need to provide youth in Cessnock with something to do on a Friday night while also helping boost participation and build trust and social connection among our young people."

The Children and Young People Wellbeing Recovery initiative is funded through the NSW COVID-19 Economic Recovery Initiative and the co-funded NSW and Australian Governments' Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements. For further information, visit nsw.gov.au/ YouthWellbeing

March Horoscopes

ASTROLOGER TANYA OBREZA ON WHAT’S IN THE STARS THIS MONTH

STAR OF THE MONTH

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH

For the best part of the year, Saturn gifts Pisceans with a smart head for money. Financial negotiations should be nothing short of inspirational. Romantically, though, there's not much stirring until May, but surprisingly, you don't mind. Through June and July, a training course enables you to earn as you learn. September asks that you make important adjustments - to break free or find a way to grow. A few weeks later, Pisceans confront the darker side of their character. By October, some of life's pressures ease. December again holds the promise of romance. Express how you really feel, then watch as superficialities fade to make room for permanence.

chart. Money matters require both give and take. Don't be shy with your generosity, Gemini - what you give will all come back - and more.

CANCER 22 JUNE – 22 JULY

Jupiter has settled in your career sector, where it remains until 2024. You can now move ahead with a wish list rather than being constrained within a tight budget. Now's the time to throw off inhibitions, indulge your dreams and look forward without fear. If you've been stuck in a dead-end rut, plan your great escape. It's been said that a small number of individuals can make big changes, and you'll do just that in the months to come.

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST

have a team of them working around the clock - along with the support of friends and family. Finally, here's a month when there's little to lose and much to gain. If you've been feeling overloaded, you're now more inclined to review those long hours. Leave plenty of time for play.

SAGITTARIUS

22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER

Recent times have wrought a ridiculous number of working hours from you, often taking you one step forward and two steps back. Thankfully, March promises better control of your money, with more freedom to spend or save. In terms of career - your natural talents come to the foreperseverance, intelligence and creativity. Think pay rise or promotion. No longer on the back foot, you more confidently stride forward.

ARIES 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL

For the next two years, disciplinarian Saturn shows you who you actually are, as opposed to what you once aspired to be. Any discrepancy between the two may prompt a sobering review of your accomplishments. Should some areas of your life reach their natural conclusion, deal with any loss or disappointment quietly. The upside: you emerge a stronger, more aware individual who can better cope with life's idiosyncrasies.

TAURUS 21 APRIL – 20 MAY

Forget about wanting a quiet life - it won't happen soon. This month you're swept along by high drama with very little time for rest. This turns out to be a mixed blessing. On the one hand, you're encouraged to do what you do well, but having this much licence gives your less responsible side free rein. The trick lies in balancing the two. That means dividing your time more evenly between work and play.

GEMINI 21 MAY – 21 JUNE

If you find yourself standing at a financial crossroads and wondering why you've never taken that deviation to the left, now's your chance. Pluto continues to support financial detours - so it's a month to turn gambles into triumphs. Mars, too, waltzes in and out of your

Yours is a straight-down-the-line sign - never afraid to tell it like it is. You want only the very best, and you intend to get it in March. Your heart is pounding, your mind is racing - and you're ready for change. The cosmos also introduces much-needed playfulness and the kind of good fortune that affords a few luxuries. Even in your love life, you dare to be sassier. For the first time in ages, you truly feel free.

VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER

This month's full moon on the 7th has plenty of sway, meaning you're likely to act without considering the consequences. If you suddenly start to spend money recklessly or dream about an off-limits flame, blame it on lunar effects. Just don't become too moonstruck. This phase is fleeting. When it's passed - you may have regrettably burned a bridge or two. Professionally, you're more in control.

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER

We each come into this world with our own unique talents and special tasks to perform. And this month, it's your turn to shine. March highlights career and business travel. The time's also right to make a major purchase or start saving for something special. Perhaps even consider a down payment on a property or a special luxury. You may spend a little extra, but don't settle for second best.

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER

Somehow you've managed to persuade a guardian angel to put in a bit of overtime on your behalf. Actually, it's more likely that you

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY

After walking on financial quicksand for so long, this month brings you comfortably back on solid ground. You're also better able to appreciate how previous setbacks served you. With this kind of hindsight, you can turn past mistakes into future triumphs. Ongoing relationships also seem to enjoy a fresh lease on life. Even recent health issues should start to ease. Find what you love doing, and enjoy it.

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY

A relentless Mars sends you into a work frenzy this month. Your mind overflows with brilliant thoughts, and you're bursting with imaginative new ideas. You'll be busy dreaming up new ventures even if your regular work involves little creativity. The only downside is a sense of agitation after the 25th. Take a break if you can. It's only fair to rest a tired and, perhaps, overwrought body.

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

intouch contributor TANYA OBREZA

HUNTER HOMES & Lifestyle

The Herron Todd White (HTW) Residential Property Report is out, giving buyers some insight into what we can expect over the coming months.

According to HTW National Director Kevin Brogan, the residential property market in 2023 is expected to be characterised by a continued reduction in transaction activity and downward pressure on prices for at least the first half of the year.

“The confidence that existed in 2022 due to high household saving ratios has been eroded by increasing interest rates and inflation. Some market segments have shown resilience so far, but it is expected that most will succumb to these combined pressures,” said Kevin.

Of course, you’d have to be living under a rock not to have heard the constant rhetoric about rising interest rates, including the recent review of RBA activities. As a result of nine consecutive rate increases, the cash rate hit 3.35% in February, which is the highest it's been in over ten years.

Rising rates are the single biggest influence on the residential property market, and we’re all wondering when the RBA will put the brakes on and deliver homeowners some respite. It seems likely that the RBA will increase rates once again this month because, although there are

reasons to believe that inflation is at its peak, we will need to wait for the first quarter CPI data to confirm this.

“Overall, the signs of slowing activity and decreasing prices in the residential property market and of a slowing in construction cost escalation are indicators that cash rate increases are having some success in bringing inflation down,” said Kevin.

The good news, according to Kevin, is that once inflation and, consequently, interest rates peak, greater certainty and consumer confidence should bring greater stability to the residential property market in the second half of the year.

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE HUNTER MARKET (DAVID SIMS – HTW Residential Property Valuer)

The market has seen some weakening over the past three to six months, with the trend set to continue as interest rates and inflation affect the cost of living and the ability to afford current asking prices.

As with any weakening in the market, the higher-value suburbs will be affected more greatly than lower-value suburbs in monetary terms. Mid-range suburbs with the prospect of adding value are the suburbs to watch as the weakening market affects the ability and desire to renovate or extend, however, when the

market stabilises, the opportunity to add value will improve.

The Hunter region around the Cessnock, Singleton and Maitland LGAs has a lower value base and generally remains affordable even in a peaking market or a weakening market shortly after a peak. Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGAs have seen substantial growth over the past two years, with the median house price still increasing compared to the same time in 2022.

The higher-value suburbs are the highest risk in a weakening market due to the likelihood of falling property prices. Although a property purchase should be for the medium or longer term and therefore travelling through several property cycles, some caution should always be shown when purchasing shortly after a peaking market when there are signs of a weakening market and the potential for falling values.

The local regions have seen substantial growth over the past two years, and despite the property cycle entering a weakening phase, the region does not appear to have been affected like the larger cities regarding a potential property value decline. As we progress through the year, a number of factors will come into play and determine which way the next property cycle will go.

If you’d like to stay up to date with property trends in your area, visit www.htw.com.au/ month-in-review.

conducts satisfaction surveys, which show that 1 in 2 of their customers has either purchased from them before or been recommended by a friend.

If you have a boat or caravan that requires a custom-sized mattress, the team at Makin Mattresses can alter any of their mattresses to suit the sleep space right here in Newcastle. The large factory and retail showroom have an expansive car park, enabling customers to drive in with their caravan for a custom fitting.

The Sweetest of Dreams with Makin Mattresses

Australia’s largest independent mattress manufacturer, Makin Mattresses, has been creating the most comfortable and highestquality mattresses for more than 45 years. And because they are manufacturers selling direct to the public, customers can try the product before they buy, guaranteeing customer satisfaction.

The way they design and construct the mattresses and the in-store experience is truly a point of difference. Attention to detail, quality control, and focus on comfort has made this Aussie company the country’s most well-loved provider of the perfect night’s sleep. Offering a wide range of mattresses to suit individual needs, the company regularly

Colour to Celebrate the Changing Seasons

DULUX AUTUMN TRENDS 2023

Autumn is here – a time of year when we gravitate indoors as the days get shorter and the evenings turn crisp. As we head into the cooler months, we want our homes to feel cosy and inviting – a space where we can relax with the ones we love while at the same time providing a front-row seat to the beauty of the changing seasons outside.

This Autumn, Dulux colour forecasters predict the warm neutrals and muted yellow greens in Connect, one of three palettes identified in the Dulux Colour Forecast 2023, will take centre stage. Together, these colours can create a calm, earthy vibe that’s perfect for

laid-back entertaining and family gatherings as the weather cools whilst blurring the lines between inside and out.

“The Dulux Connect palette is filled with beautiful earth-based neutrals that are so easy to live in and decorate within our homes,” says Andrea Lucena-Orr, Dulux Colour and Communications Manager.

“They speak to our growing passion for craftsmanship, sustainability and living more simply, and create the relaxed and cocooning feeling we crave from our homes in the autumn months. They are also extremely versatile and work with various architectural styles, adding

The team at the Sandgate store work closely with the production team on-site and are experts at matching you with the right mattress to suit your comfort needs and budget. Whether you have a last-minute guest coming, a teenager growing out of their bed, or perhaps it’s time to upgrade to something special –there’s no doubt that Makin Mattresses will have a mattress to suit.

Additionally, to complete your new mattress, they offer bed bases and bed heads in 3 fashionable colours, bed frames and linen. Makin Mattresses has ten stores Australia-wide and six manufacturing sites. Create your dream sleep with Makin Mattresses in the Hunter – you’ll find the showroom on the corner of Friesian Close and Jersey Avenue in Sandgate.

warmth and colour to contemporary interiors or enhancing the character of period homes.”

Armed with the Dulux Connect palette, you too can transform your home for Autumn. Here are the top five tips from the experts:

• Up the texture: For a cosy and comfortable feel, mix soft-touch, tactile fabrics such as linens, velvets, corduroy, shearling, and soft leather.

• Take in the view: Do you have a beautiful backyard outlook? Make it a highlight by keeping window coverings to a minimum or dispensing with them altogether.

• Wrap the room: For a truly enveloping feeling, run your chosen room colour onto the ceiling as well.

• Go big with rugs: Furniture in large, openplan spaces can sometimes look lost – define clear living and dining zones by adding large floor rugs.

• Take it outside: The earthy, natural colours in the Dulux Connect palette also work beautifully on a façade, balcony or outdoor entertaining area. Using them inside and out helps visually connect your interior and exterior.

To learn more about Dulux’s Colour Forecast 2023, visit www.dulux.com.au.

Image Credit: Dulux Australia, Stylist: Bree Leech, Photographer: Lisa Cohen Colours: Dulux Beaten Track, Dulux Stilted Stalks And Dulux Namadji®

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