Newcastle & Lake Macquarie | September 2015

Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

TM

ISSUE #04 //SEPTEMBER 2015 WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Helping Youth Deal with Mental Health through Music A CRACKING GOOD TIME in Newcastle

BELLA’S FINAL CELEBRATION of Friendship and Song

SELF-GUIDED WALKS Behind the Scenes of our City

Lifestyle // Entertainment // Dining // Fashion // Community // Travel // Family // Home // Money // Property

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INSIDE INTOUCH

WIN! PAGE 11

From the Editors...

A non-judgemental space is imperative for people going out on a limb like that. And because it’s not a traditional theatre setting it makes the work really accessible.

This month we kiss goodbye to freezing mornings and put the heaters away for another year… it’s time to get out and about and enjoy everything that the great outdoors of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie has to offer.

They say music soothes the savage beast. But in the Hunter at this time each year, young people use music to rock the “black dog” of depression and the stigma that surrounds it as part of an initiative designed to promote mental health awareness.

We are very proud to be part of this truly unique event. You can find out all about it in this month’s feature article “Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog” From ploughing lessons to lessons on iPads – a lot has certainly changed in the world of public schooling during the past 150 years. And that evolution of education will be highlighted by two Newcastle schools this month as they celebrate their sesquicentenaries. Congratulations to both Lambton and Plattsburg Public Schools on achieving this significant milestone.

The long weekend in October sees the return of the annual “This is not Art” Festival (TiNA) and with it the Crack Theatre Festival which together have earned the reputation of being one of Australia’s most exciting and longest-running experimental arts festivals.

With over 150 performances and events to enjoy there really is something for everyone and you can find out more between our covers this month.

- PAGE 13

Contents//

ISSUE #04 SEPTEMBER 2015

Features 7

History Lesson as Schools Celebrate

8

Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog

13

Festival Offers a Cracking Good Time

If you need to declutter your brain then perhaps you need to e-Tox! Voicemail, email, SMS, Facebook.. it can all get a bit much sometimes can’t it? It seems I'm not alone, so this month we talked to Brigid Walsh, General Manager of Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa, Elysia about technology addiction and how Golden Door assist with the e-toxing process for their Health Spa guests.

16

Bella’s Final Celebration

20

Practical Tips for Reducing Back Pain

24

Discover Southern Africa

27

Newcastle's Self-Guided Walking Tours

It’s the first month of Spring and there’s some great entertainment and dining to enjoy.

Our Eat//Sip//Savour section is jam packed with tantalising treats for your tastebuds! We challenge all of our readers to get out and about and try some of these hotspots for yourselves. Enjoy!

32

The Hunter’s Produce on Show

39

Tips to Declutter your Home

42

An Integrated Approach to Healthcare

De-cluttering is said to have a positive effect on our well-being and the bonus is creating a tidier home. Easy to say – but difficult to do, decluttering before a Spring clean is a great way to get started on a minimalistic approach to your new look home for Summer. Our friends at Insideout give us more than a few tips to a successful Spring cleanout!

Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Quentin and Di von Essen | Publishers

GET MOBILE! View this month’s Issue of intouch magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Simply download the QR code and get mobile!

Got a great story to tell? Know someone who does?

Budding writer or sensational photographer?

We love contributions, so drop us a line at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

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

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

On the Cover

Phone (02) 4967 3600 Address Suite 4, 2 Smith Street, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales Quentin von Essen & Jarrod Schadel Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen & Carla Elkin Graphic Design Jess Codrington © Copyright 2015 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

4 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog competition sees the young people of the Hunter use music to rock “the black dog” of depression. Brian Lizotte was quick to lend his support and venue to the event, with the mental health cause hitting very close to home (Page 8).

Contributors

PAGE 8

Alyce Cowell Deborah Bartlett Jessica Rouse Michelle Meehan Quentin von Essen Sue Williams

Carla Elkin Di von Essen Jo Thomas Megan O'Sullivan Richard Ford

Chris Williams Jason Bradley Kath Teagle Mel Murray

INSIDE INTOUCH

PAGE 24

Winners are Grinners!

It's always great to received some mail (and pics) from winners of our Giveaways... check out our July Winners enjoying their prizes!

PAGE 16 Regulars 6

Top Five

10

What’s on Guide

19

Fashion, Health & Beauty

I had a lovely time at the show on Saturday with my nieces Grace Muir, age 6 and Abbey Muir, age 4. I think we were the youngest crafters there! The picture is of the girls with guest artist Christine Donehue, who is a master twiller. We loved the group colouring in. I've got the original colouring in book at home. It's great for mindfulness.

The group craft wall was stunning.

24 Travel

Thank you for the tickets!

Julie Muir

28 Eat//Sip//Savour 39 Home 41

Family & Community

45

Finance/ Money

46

Property & Real Estate

PAGE 22

Thanks intouch for the passes to the Stitches and Craft show. Unfortunately Grandma couldn't make the journey from Tamworth (we tried) but the boys became experts in stamping and bookmark making. My three sons were dragged along in place, one becoming a photographer and the other gained a keen eye for origami paper. We participated in a cake decorating workshop and colouring in, and we are even off to a bird making class in the holidays. Who knew a craft fair could be so much fun for the little ones.

Thanks Again!

Joey, Kelly, Cade and Harper Davis

SINGLE PLATFORM

MULTI-PLATFORM

Maybe platforms aren't always the sensible choice when it comes to shoes - but if you want to be noticed by more customers, more often and in more places, then multi-platform advertising is the way to go!

That's why intouch magazine is multi-platform.

It's print... it's digital... it's online... it's social!

And best of all - it's all included in the cost of a print advertisement. (which start at just $400!)

Find out more today!

PH 4967 3600 E getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au W www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Thanks so much to the crew at intouch for The Badloves tickets, and thanks to Brian and staff at Lizotte's for really looking after us with great service, food and entertainment!

EVERYONE in the Hunter Region needs to get themselves there at some stage for an awesome night! The band was excellent too - thanks guys for including us on your tour - you're very welcome here anytime!

Cheers!

Scott & Melissa Parker

magazine www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 5

TOPFIVE Top Book

Photo of the Month

THAT SUGAR BOOK Damon Gameau When actor and filmmaker Damon Gameau met a girl he was keen to impress, he decided to get healthy by dramatically reducing his sugar intake. In no time he was slimmer, calmer, fitter and happier - and also very curious: why did the elimination of sugar have such beneficial effects on his health and wellbeing? He decided to Dave Bean experiment. He would eat 40 teaspoons of sugar a day for 60 days. Crucially, he would only consume perceived 'healthy' foods like muesli bars, breakfast cereals, low-fat yoghurts, juices and smoothies.

We all saw the effects on Damon in THAT SUGAR FILM, now That Sugar Book follows Damon on his journey and blows the lid on how the food industries make and sell our food, and how they are complicit in, and indeed determined to, maintain the status quo on the world's alarming and health-destroying sugar consumption Available online, at all good bookshops, BigW and Kmart!

BALLOONS OVER THE VALLEY This stunning shot was taken during the Balloon Fiesta event in the Hunter Valley. If you've ever thought Image taken by Kathy Rothwell about taking a flight during this magnificent event, now's the time to book your spot because it's coming up this October (17th & 18th). Book online at www.balloonaloft.com.au Thanks to Balloon Aloft for the beautiful image.

Top Gig

Top Wine

FRENZAL RHOMB

BRIAR RIDGE 2013 Briar Ridge The H.R.B Shiraz Pinot

SEPTEMBER 18

After a memorable stage performance in Perth where drummer Gordy Forman broke his arm mid set, (ironically showing the crowd how to crowd surf properly) Frenzal Rhomb are back with their resheduled stop in Newcastle!

Armed with a fill in for Gordy, Youtube sensation and locally based drummer Kye Smith, the show will go ahead as planned... WIll the new album that was planned go ahead too?

See Frenzal Rhomb at The Cambridge Hotel on Friday September 18th. For tickets go to www.thecambridgehotel.com.au

Awarded 96 points by James Halliday, this wine has been crafted in a way that pays homage to the great pioneering wine style of the Hunter Valley, the ‘Hunter River Burgundy’. Made from Shiraz and Pinot Noir sourced off the estate, this wine is intended to show the rich history of the Hunter using modern day winemaking techniques.

Tasting The nose is perfumed floral notes of cassis and dark cherry.

The palate is a finely balanced blend of dark cherry, cassis and spice notes. Elegant, medium bodied with silky tannins and a fine boned acid structure, the wine is made to intrigue and delight.

Cellaring Reward yourself with careful cellaring up to ten years or more. visit www.briarridge.com.au or enjoy some time at their Hunter Valley Cellar Door - 593 Mount View Rd, Mount View.

Top Movie

Top Service

RICKI AND THE FLASH

THE TEAM AT JAYCO NEWCASTLE

Three-time Academy Award® winner Meryl Streep goes electric and takes on a whole new gig - a hard-rocking singer/guitarist - for Oscar®-winning director Jonathan Demme and Academy Award®-winning screenwriter Diablo Cody in the uplifting comedy Ricki and the Flash.

Leading RV dealer Jayco Newcastle has taken out the Excellence in Customer Service Award in the over 20 employees category at the recent Hunter Business Awards.

In a film loaded with music and live performance, Streep stars as Ricki, a guitar heroine who gave up everything for her dream of rock-and-roll stardom, but is now returning home to make things right with her family. Streep stars opposite her real-life daughter Mamie Gummer, who plays her fictional daughter; Rick Springfield, who takes on the role of a Flash member in love with Ricki; and Kevin Kline, who portrays Ricki's long-suffering ex-husband.

Ricki and the Flash is in cinemas now.

This distinguished award recognises an organisation that has initiated outstanding practices in customer service. In presenting the award, the judges made comment on Jayco Newcastle’s strong customer service and staff culture model, various customer service systems and programs and how these have contributed to increase sales and business growth.

Congrats to the team at Jayco on their win!

If you would like to contribute an idea or photo for our Top Five, simply send it to us at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au 6 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

INTOUCH SCHOOLS CELEBRATE 150 YEARS

PLATTSBURG PUBLIC SCHOOL The school was founded in September 1865 and has occupied two sites during its 150-year history.

Plattsburg has experienced a range of educational “identities” over the years aside from being a general public school. These have included operating as: •An Evening Public School (1880 to 1883) - to provide elementary education for people aged 14 and older who had previously received no, or very little, education.

•A Superior Public School (Mar 1892 to Dec 1912) providing both primary and post-primary education. Pupils who had completed the primary course studied subjects like mathematics and languages.

Lambton Public School

HISTORY LESSON::

Schools celebrate 150 years of education WORDS: Michelle Meehan

From ploughing lessons to lessons on iPads – a lot has certainly changed in the world of public schooling during the past 150 years.

And that evolution of education will be highlighted by two Newcastle schools this month as they celebrate their sesquicentenaries.

Past and presents students and teachers of Plattsburg Public School and Lambton Public School will be heading off on a trip down memory lane as their respective schools celebrate the 150th anniversary of their establishment in September 1865.

Both schools have a host of anniversary activities planned to commemorate their milestone moments, with Plattsburg kicking theirs off late last month with dinner and dancing at a 150th reunion event at South Leagues Club.

They will follow this up with a Spring Fair to Remember on Saturday, September 19 from 9am to 2pm.

To be held within the school grounds at Wallsend, it will feature everything from market stalls and performances to camel rides, amusement rides, memorabilia, history presentation and classic cars.

The contents of a time capsule, buried in 1990 to commemorate the 125th anniversary of the school’s opening, will also be revealed at the Spring Fair. This will no doubt highlight just how much life at the school has changed even in the past 25 years.

Ex-students and staff have also been encouraged to share stories of the way things were during their time at the school.

The end result of sharing experiences at the school will be the creation of a “Memories of Plattsburg” booklet to capture the anecdotal history of the educational institution.

Of course, no good anniversary celebration would be complete without matching memorabilia and Plattsburg has plenty, with everything from commemorative key rings to wine glasses on sale.

Those who want to leave a permanent reminder of their time at the school within its grounds can also choose to have a paver engraved with their name.

These will form part of the paving around a specially constructed anniversary garden, which will be a focal point at the school for years to come.

Commemorative Pavers will also feature in Lambton Public School’s celebrations.

Orders for these closed in July to ensure they could be laid in a pathway in the school’s grounds prior to the four days of anniversary-themed fun this month.

The current crop of Lambton Public School staff and students will kick off the festivities on Thursday, September 10 with a “Back in Time” day, dressing up and taking part in activities replicating what the school was like in 1865.

The following day pupils will march through the streets of Lambton before an official anniversary assembly is held at the school. A commemorative dinner will be held at Wests Leagues Club that night, while market stalls, memorabilia, amusement rides and live performances will attract past and present pupils to the 150th anniversary fete on Saturday, September 12 from 10am to 3pm.

•A Home Science School (Jan 1913 to Jun 1923) combining a general post-primary education with home science and commercial training for girls in subjects such as cookery, home management, household hygiene, economics, shorthand and typing.

LAMBTON PUBLIC SCHOOL Lambton Public School opened on September 25, 1865, following an application to the Board of National Education from Lambton Coal company, which requested a school to be opened to cater for the 86 children in the area.

The mining company donated the land for the school as well as one-third of the cost of its construction.

At the end of 1865 the school had an average of 116 students – by 1871 it had the largest enrolment of any school in the district, with 479 pupils.

Over the years, the school site has also housed an evening school, a manual training centre teaching ironwork, woodwork and coal mining related science skills and demonstration cookery classes.

The school will throw open its gates to the public for one final anniversary activity on Sunday 13th with old photos and other memorabilia on display in the classrooms and the library between 10am and 12pm.

Lambton Public School Principal Jan Partridge said the school community was thrilled to be celebrating such an important milestone.

Lambton Public School

“A sesquicentennial is a wonderful achievement for a school and this is due to the community support received in so many ways throughout the years,” she said.

“The current students are very excited about the 150-year celebration and are developing units of learning which reflect the amazing history of the past 150 years.”

Plattsburg Public School www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 7

COVER STORY FEATURE YOUTH ROSS ROCKIN' NOBLE THE BLACK DOG Of course, young people don’t want to be patronised or preached to. So rather than in-your-face education, the competition uses music as its conduit to conduct a conversation about mental health awareness.

Brian Lizotte with last years winner's, PaceFaint.

Whether its woven into the lyrics of the bands’ music as they draw from their own experiences, or in the brochures and information available at the venue during the competition heats and grand final, the message is a more subtle one - but one that its target audience, young people, will gravitate to.

“There’s lot of great research coming out in the last decade that says that music and the arts are seen as a really great way to engage with community,” Kim said.

“Especially if it’s a subject that can be confronting, it removes that barrier and creates a fun atmosphere that allows people to explore...But specific to music, we know that music can evoke an emotion and relieve stress."

“On a community level it really does encourage people to connect and engage, so there is It breaks that social inclusion rather than isolation. down the barrier and And young people, particularly, form a lot of their identity around music." becomes engaging because

Youth Rockin'

“Lots of musicians have experienced people don’t see you as the mental health issues and drug abuse. person with the mental health When you go into the schools, if you issue, they see you as this were to say ‘Put your hand up if you’ve ever had a mental health problem?’ nocreative, talented person one would...But when you stick a guitar in and ‘oh you’ve had this someone’s hand and they start to say ‘You know, I’ve had depression’, everyone still experience’.

THE BLACK DOG Helping YOUNG PEOPLE deal with depression through MUSIC They say music soothes the savage beast.

But in the Hunter at this time each year, young people use music to rock the “black dog” of depression and the stigma that surrounds it as part of an initiative designed to promote mental health awareness.

During September and October musicians aged between 12 and 25 will take to the stage of renowned live music venue Lizotte’s Newcastle as part of the sixth annual Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog competition.

WORDS: Michelle Meehan IMAGES: Courtesy of Stacey Cross and Hunter Institute of Mental Health 8 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Performing their own original songs, the aspiring musos will give it their all in a bid to be named the best band and take out the top prize - the opportunity to professionally record and press 500 copies of a three-track EP.

wants to be him because he’s that guitarist."

“With Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog it presents more of a forum for raising the discussion about mental health, which is a positive concept and the messaging just comes from presence."

“In the past we’ve had psychologists, who work privately, attend and get up and do a three minute guest speak and staff from headspace are also there on the night."

“Byron, who generally serves as our MC, is a Community Development Officer from headspace Newcastle. As he’s introducing each band between crossovers he’ll throw in a few little key items throughout the night."

“The biggest thing is when people can put a face and a personality forward and not just a title such as psychologist, it breaks down those barriers and people see they’re approachable.”

Cash prizes, performance opportunities and the chance to produce a demo quality recording are also on offer in a range of other award categories including best emerging young talent, Members of the headspace Youth Reference Group are also present during the competition, so “young people who are best song, best lyrics and best self-promoting act. competing can see other young people who are involved”.

But the competition is about more than just the prizes and the Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog has been running in Newcastle music – it’s also about the message; that young people need since 2010. But the music competition isn’t where the story to start thinking and talking about the mental health issues started. affecting them.

The statistics surrounding mental health are scary - it is the leading cause of disability among 16 to 24-year-olds living in Australia, with around 40 per cent of young people between 16 to 24-years-of-age experiencing a mental health disorder throughout the course of their lifetime.

Around 75 per cent of mental health disorders emerge before the age of 24, with anxiety and depression the most common.

But according to Hunter Institute of Mental Health (HIMH) Community, Media and Arts Project Officer Kim McNaughton, the messages around positive mental health don’t have to be scary. And this is where Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog comes in.

The competition is managed by the HIMH in partnership with headspace Maitland and headspace Newcastle. It encourages young people to start talking about mental health issues with friends, family and networks and aims to promote a range of local and national services available to support them.

Tragically, it began two years earlier in 2008 when local woman Julie Frith lost her battle with clinical depression. Inspired by her life and work as a volunteer mentor in high schools, Julie’s husband Russell and family friend Gareth Hudson, a musician and producer, set out to find a way to bring the young people from the region together in a celebration of life, music and community.

Importantly, they also wanted to help them find out about mental illness and the support services that are available in a fun and creative environment – knowing that was something Julie would have liked.

In 2009, a free all-ages music festival called Rockin’ the Black Dog was held at Camp Shortland near Nobby’s Beach in Newcastle featuring a string of touring artists such as Jenny Morris, The Boat People and The Seabellies as well as a host of local artists from various genres.

COVER STORY YOUTH ROCKIN' THE BLACK DOG Grant Walmsley (Screaming Jets), Steve MacLennan (former drummer for Australian icons such as Rose Tattoo, Kevin Borich and Jimmy Barnes), and Amy Vee (musician and mental health advocate with HMHI). The Hunter’s business sector is also supportive of the event, providing sponsorship, prizes and even the venue itself in the case of restaurateur Brian Lizotte.

Brian has been around music for his entire career, catering to some of the biggest names in the business before setting up his own restaurants come music venues, offering “Fine Food with a Musical Mood”. He is also the older brother of Australian music stalwart Mark Lizotte (Diesel).

His passion for advocating music at a grassroots level and his own personal connection to the message behind the event meant he was more than happy to lend his support to Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog, providing the venue and his expertise as a judge.

“Lizotte’s has always been so involved in the local community, particularly in the schools and the grassroots of spawning a place for the youth to play,” he said.

“Also having some of my kids’ friends fall victim to such tragic situations such as youth suicide, I just wanted to get on board and do anything to help and make a difference."

Lizotte’s is the location for the competition’s three heats and grand final, which this year will be held on September 2, 9 and 16, with the final showdown of the six best bands taking place on October 7.

The festival was attended by more than 1000 people from the wider community and supported by local mental health services such as Lifeline Hunter, Hunter headspace and Plan-it-youth Hunter. It also receive national support from organisations including SANE Australia, Kids Helpline, Black Dog Institute, Beyondblue and ReachOut! The festival raised $30,000 through sponsorship and donations, which contributed to the development of walletsize ‘help-seeking’ cards for high school students in the Hunter, advertising mental health and other support services for young people. It also provided assistance for local Hunter libraries to increase their mental health resources.

In 2010 the festival was changed to a youth band competition and since then Youth Rockin' the Black Dog hasn’t looked back.

In its first four years the competition attracted more than 95 musical acts and 324 musicians/singers from Cessnock, Great Lakes, Gosford, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Newcastle, Taree, Port Stephens and Wyong areas.

The number of entries in the past few years have hit record levels and in 2014 the competition attracted 489 audience members, with an average of 98 people per event.

Previous participants have included Ashleigh Grace (who has since supported Wendy Mathews and The Black Sorrows and is now writing and recording in the US), The Chestnuts (who have since played alongside bands such as Amy Meredith and Bluejuice), James Osborn, People's Palace, Pacefaint and K Square (a two-piece Liberian-Australian hip-hop act whose social justice-inspired lyrics secured them the 2010 title).

Aside from the competition, the organisers also organise a free one-day song writing and professional development workshop for musicians aged 12 to 25 years. Facilitated by the National Music Academy and held at their Newcastle West venue, it will be held from 9am to 4pm on Saturday, September 5.

Participants will learn how to develop a song, write lyrics and be provided with a variety of tools to assist with becoming a professional artist.

Award-winning Newcastle-based singer-songwriter Amy Vee will also make a guest appearance on the day to talk to young

musicians about her own musical journey and ways she takes care of her mental health.

And while over the years the intimate Newcastle venue has played host to some of the biggest local, national and international acts, Brian said he almost gets a bigger buzz watching those involved in Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog take to his stage. This has even included one of his own staff, with the 2014 major prize winners, Pacefaint, including Lizotte’s waiter Michael Garrett among its line-up.

Kim said positive feedback over the years had made it clear “When you’ve got a full restaurant of people who have come that Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog is hitting its mark, both in terms of the musical opportunity it offers and the message that to see little Johnny up on stage, I get just as much joy out of that as I do bringing the big names,” Brain said. “This is where it presents. you’re spawning the next lot of superstars. There might be the reality television shows out there but at the end of the day it "The support for this project is amazing does start with the local community and people getting behind these kids with any sort of talent emerging." among the young people, the main thing

that comes through is they want more of these projects and this one is the best organised in this region."

Audience surveys reveal the majority agreed strongly that the competition was an effective way of raising awareness about wellbeing and about mental health issues among young people, and how to seek help.

Anecdotally, Youth Rockin' the Black Dog events have also impacted positively on young people through the recognition that increasing awareness about wellbeing and mental illness is important and this can be achieved in a fun and organised way.

“There’s a lot of excitement, especially when you get to the grand final. I never take for granted what we’re able to do and sometimes it blows me away.”

Like everyone else involved in the event, Brian sees the power of using music to promote mental health awareness among young people; “You’ve got a topic that’s normally very hard to approach and I think music is just the medium through which it flows really well, in particular to the youth because they can all identify themselves with music and it is always something that people connect with straight away,” he said.

“Even the young musicians I’ve been talking to, one of my employees who went to Lambton High actually won the competition last year, and just to see him and his friends and how involved they get and how much they back it, there’s no two ways about it, it’s definitely because it’s linked with music."

One participant last year shared their views on the subject; “They [mental illness and mental health] are important subjects “Music will always be that solace for people to connect with, some sort of calm and some sort of stability … with the lyrics for young people to learn about because it can help prevent severe mental illness later in life. If we teach young people how and melodies, people connect with music in a different way to to identify mental illness and teach them what the right course anything else.” of action is, we can change the statistics and hopefully have a generational drop in prevalent disorders like depression.”

Other participants were glowing about how well it was run: “The most well put together band comp we've been in ...” and its usefulness to promote its key message: “I believe that music is a powerful tool and can be used to help people. Music is my life and passion.”

For more information: www.himh.org.au or on Facebook www.facebook.com/YRBDbandcomp

The competition is well supported by the local music industry, with special guest judges over the years including the likes of www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 9

What’s on?

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Spring Festival of Flowers An event designed to immerse visitors in a visual and sensory experience they will never forget. Come and check out fabulous entertainment, activities, attractions, demonstrations, talks tours and workshops! Hunter Valley Gardens, until Sep 30. www.hvg.com.au

►COMING

UP

WEDNESDAY 2ND Youth Rockin the Black Dog - Heat 1 Lizottes, Lambton Postmodern Jukebox Panthers, Newcastle THURSDAY 3RD The Whitlams The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle The Getaway Plan The Small Ballroom FRIDAY 4TH Megan Washington Tangents Tour Lizottes, Lambton

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

THURSDAY 10TH The Smith Street Band The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 11TH Ocean Alley The Cambridge Hotel Outland Brothers The Lass O'Gowrie Hotel SATURDAY 12TH Nerdlinger The Cambridge Hotel Johnny Cash The Concert Belmont 16's SUNDAY 13TH Frank Sinatra The Tommy Dorsey Orchestra Civic Theatre, Newcastle WEDNESDAY 16TH Celtic Woman Civic Theatre, Newcastle.

FRIDAY 18TH Frenzal Rhomb The Cambridge Hotel Ladies of Jazz Lizottes, Lambton SATURDAY 19TH Bella She Still Believes Tour Belmont 16's British India The Cambridge Hotel Alias Sydney Junction Hotel SUNDAY 20TH 80's Mania Wests, New Lambton Mikelangelo Cave-Waits-Cohen Lizottes, Lambton FRIDAY 25TH Code Orange I am King Tour Small Ballroom Pennywise + Anti-Flag About Time Tour Newcastle Panthers Drunk Mums The Cambridge Hotel WEDNESDAY 30TH Isla Grant Farewell Concert Tour Wests, New Lambton Cancer Bats Destroy Australia Tour The Small Ballroom

10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

Kevin Bloody Wilson Belmont 16 Footers.

2015 Newcastle Rescue Ball Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Newcastle Regional Art Gallery The Roland Pope Donation 70th Anniversary Exhibition and John Kaldor Family Collection Artist Room #2 - Bill Viola both until Nov 1.

Lower Hunter Urban Design Awards Great Gatsby 2015 Awards Gala Dinner. The Awards recognise and reward outstanding urban design in building, landscape and public open space. Limited tickets!

Our Pubs 2 See fascinating period photos of pubs in Newcastle and the Hunter in the second installment of the popular Our Pubs exhibition. Until Oct 11.

Newcastle Museum.

Lambton Public School 150th Dinner Tickets are $35 from 2Blend Cafe (Elder St) or from the school or by phoning the school on 4957 1667.

3 SEP

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Swan Lake Presented by the Imperial Russian Ballet Company. Two shows only! Civic Theatre, Newcastle.

Tickets at Ticketek.

Lambton Public School 150th Open Day 10am 3pm.

SUNDAY 6TH Blood Sweat and Tears Wests, New Lambton John Williamson Nelson Bay Diggers

WEDNESDAY 9TH Youth Rockin the Black Dog - Heat 2 Lizottes, Lambton

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Micro Theatre at Curve Gallery Pocket sized plays in suprising places... Limited tickets available!

Jonah A Fishy Tale Presented by Belmont Christian College. Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

SATURDAY 5TH John Williamson Belmont 16's Born Lion The Cambridge Hotel The Snowdroppers Wickham Park Hotel

MONDAY 7TH The Story so Far & Man Overboard The Cambridge Hotel

with laughter, surprise and mayhem! Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

Charleys Aunt Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. 4—12 Sep. Tickets at Ticketek.

Special Club Sandwich from Brisbane Royal Exchange, Newcastle.

Sunday Interlude Festival of Voice A classical, contemporary and jazz repertoire from acclaimed professional musicians,and also the talents of young performers. Adamstown Uniting Church. Tickets at the door or www.trybooking.com.au. 4—6 Sep. Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery Your Collection: Lake Life and Lore & Order both until Oct 11. CLICK: Schools in Focus until Dec 6.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase See comedy at its funniest at the Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

Pier Pressure Nobbys Lighthouse. Black Box & Co Productions present some of the biggest production and sound Newcastle has seen in a long time!

Festival of the Senses Previously known as the Shoal Bay Jazz, Wine and Food Festival, it is now in its 22nd year! Port Stephens Country Club, Shoal Bay.

Newcastle Emerging Artist Prize 2015 Opening night 6pm. Exhibition until Sep 27. Newcastle Community Arts Centre, Parry Street Newcastle.

Discover Sailing Day at Newcastle Yacht Club Learn how fun, safe, accessible and affordable sailing is for FREE! Register at www.ncyc.net.au

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13

NJC Charity Golf Day for the National Jockeys' Trust Merewether Golfclub.

Newcastle Pubs Tour Back by popular demand! Join local historian Ed Tonks as he takes you on a tour of Newcastle’s grand old pubs. 1pm, Meet at Newcastle Museum. Call 4974 1401 to book.

Female of The Species 6—19 Sep. Newcastle Theatre Company.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Cranky Bear A rollicking new show by Patch Theatre Company for 4–8 year olds, this show is packed

No One Cares About your Cat Presented by Tantrum Youth Arts. In this age of increasingly novel and addictive social technologies we are more networked than ever, yet we’ve never felt more alone.

Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. 16—19 Sep. Tickets at Ticketek.

16 - 19 SEP

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

Bress Wine Dinner at Reserve Join Adam Marks, a winemaker from Bress Wines in Bendigo, Victoria for a night of sensational wine and food. Cost is $110.

For enquiries: contact@reservewinebar.com.au.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Beyond Presented by Circa. There is a line between human and animal, between madness and sanity, between logic and dream… We invite you to step over this line…and go Beyond! Civic Theatre, Newcastle. 18—19 Sep. Tickets at Ticketek.

Spring Racing Carnival Newcastle Cup Broadmeadow Racecourse.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Hunter Animal Rescue High Tea HAR have teamed up with The Hop Factory and Doughheads for a delicious craft beer and donut matching event. Get your tickets at www.stickytickets.com.au quick!

Budfest at Briar Enjoy a twist on your favourite takeaway and learn that wine is about experience and can be just as memorable over a plate of fish 'n' chips as with a dish prepared by a three hated restaurateur! Briar Ridge Vineyard, Hunter Valley.

Broke Village Fair & Vintage Car Display McNamara Park, Broke.

Spring Racing Carnival Ladies Day Broadmeadow Racecourse.

Art Bazaar Morpeth 10am - 3pm, Corner of Tank St and Morpeth Rd.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16

Peter Pan Presented by Hunter Drama. An outdoor event held at Pacific Park, Newcastle East. Bring a rug and a cushion! For wet weather information go to www.hunterdrama.com.au. 16—20 Sep, 7.30pm daily. Tickets at Ticketek.

Girl Friday Race Day Broadmeadow Racecourse.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

consecutive nights, Sep 16—18, 6pm until 9pm.

For more information and tickets visit www.nightattack.com.au

16 - 20 SEP NightAttack Dress up in fluro or glow in the dark attire and go through the military inspired obstacle course lit with UV, strobes and coloured spot lighting, smoke machines and the tenacity of a True Grit course! The 5km course at Hunter Stadium incorporates 17 obstacles. It will be held on 3

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20

Miss Country Girl Australia, Newcastle Preliminary Competition Stockton RSL.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21

Roald Dahl Festival His legendary language is famed throughout the world and this festival is all about honouring the wondercrump legacy of Mr Dahl himself. It’s a chance to celebrate and showcase Dahl’s words, language and imagination over a week jam packed full of short performances based on everyone’s favourite Roald Dahl tales! Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek. Until 26 Sep. Hunter Drama School Holiday Workshops With workshops such as League of Superhero's, Musical Theatre Boot Camp and Puppet Avalanche, there is one workshop to suit every child from ages 5 to 16yrs! Go to www.hunterdrama.com.au for more information or to book a spot.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Fink About it Presented by the Laughing Samoans.

City Hall, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

Do you have a local event or gig coming up? Email us today at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

What’s on?

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

Play School Live Once Upon A Time 25—26 Sep. Newcastle Panthers.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

COMING UP...

2015 Living Smart Festival Features of the festival include low-waste cooking demonstrations, an upcycle tent including eco-fashion and home decor, demonstrations, the Native Plant Giveaway and more!

Speers Point Park, Lake Macquarie.

31 Morehead Street, Lambton FULLY LICENSED

Doors open from 6pm

SEPTEMBER

Wollombi Music Festival This boutique music festival combines a beautiful mountain setting with an adjacent camping area, and fills its 2 stages with an eclectic mix of Australian bands. It’s colourful, friendly, full of great music, awesome markets and more! www. wollombimusicfestival.com.au OAK Australian Wife Carrying Titles Singleton Showground.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27

The Dream Dance Co: Genesis A new Australian commercial dance company featuring an all-star cast of the top professional dancers in Australia. Featuring some of the alumni of So You Think You Can Dance Australia. Civic Theatre.

Coming Up IN OCTOBER THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1 This is Not Art Festival (TiNA) Newcastle With over 150 options of FREE entertainment, inspiration, discussion and delight, there will be streams of interest to appeal to the creative community, innovators, change-makers, cultural vultures, and the young and old. 1—4 October. Subscribe at www.thisisnotart.org for full program release.

2015 National Young Writers' Festival A part of TiNA Festival, 1—4 October, Newcastle.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 2 The Preatures The Cambridge Hotel.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 RocKwiz Live Salutes the ARIA Hall of Fame Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.Smirnoff Marquee Party Racing, DJ, private bar, games and prizes...what more could you want from a Saturday afternoon? Tickets are only $20 in advance including racecourse entry, VIP Marquee access and complimentary Smirnoff! www.njc.com.au

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Dog Lovers Day Webb Park, Beach Rd Redhead. 10am 3pm. Lots of entertainment, for dogs and humans!

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7

Youth Rockin the Black Dog - GRAND FINAL A music competition designed to raise awareness of youth mental health issues among young people in the Hunter and surrounding regions. For more information, see our article on PAGE 8.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9 The Very Hungry Caterpillar 9—10 October, Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

SATURDAY OCTOBER 10

Newcastle Light the Night Foreshore Park.

SUNDAY OCTOBER 11

Stephen K Amos - Welcome To My World Wests, New Lambton

Live & Cookin’

YOUTH ROCKIN THE BLACK DOG HEAT 1 Wednesday 2 PACEFAINT

9 OCT

Thursday 3

THE RADIATORS Little did anyone realize back in 1978 that The Radiators would still be together, still hugely popular and still producing quality music with no signs of slowing down. Traveling thousands upon thousands of kilometers up, down and across the length and breadth of this vast country, The Radiators have carved a niche in the annals of Aussie Rock history.

They have headlined and shared the stage with other great Aussie acts such as AC/DC, Rose Tattoo, Dragon and INXS. 2004 saw the release of The Radiators 25th Anniversary Album, a compilation of their most popular singles.

While this Album sold well and had chart success, the boys were keen to try something new.

In 2008 their controversial single Gimme Head was re-recorded and remixed by The Cut in Sydney, and picked up by Melbourne Recording Company, Vicious.

The single debuted at No. 25 on the ARIA Club Charts, quickly climbing to No. 9 in the first 5 days.

The new Gimme Head was snapped up by Australian Fashion Week and featured on their television advertisements shown on Channel 10. Despite the rigors of touring and the passing of years the spark and energy of The Radiators has not diminished.

They continue to do what they do best, tour extensively, play an average of 150 times per year and delight the legions of fans both young and old who still flock to grab a slice of living Aussie Rock history, rocking the night away to the great catchy songs and classic hits that have made The Radiators a household name in Australia. Not bad for four boys from humble beginnings with big dreams and one wonders what this powerhouse band is capable of producing next. THE RADIATORS - 30 years old and still going strong!

Catch The Radiators at Lizotte's Newcastle on October 9th - for tickets and more information visit www.newcastle.lizottes.com.au

WIN WIN WIN! FOR YOU AND 3 FRIENDS!!

Thanks to Lizotte's Newcastle we're giving our readers the chance to win show tickets for yourself and 3 friends to enjoy The Radiators Live in Concert at Lizotte's Newcastle on October 9th.

HOW TO ENTER

Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au and click on the "RADIATORS TICKETS" button. Register to receive intouch magazine online (free of course!) and tell us what your favourite Radiators track is and why. The winner will be contacted by email on September 30th and announced on our facebook page. It's that easy!

DAVE GRANEY ‘N’ THE CORAL SNAKES Saturday 5

LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH VINCE JONES Sunday 6 YOUTH ROCKIN THE BLACK DOG HEAT 2 Wednesday 9 THE LEGENDARY STEPHEN CUMMINGS Friday 11

HOLY HOLY - WHEN THE STORMS WOULD COME TOUR Saturday 12 YOUTH ROCKIN THE BLACK DOG HEAT 3 Wednesday 16 D AT SEA Thursday 17

ROBINSON CRUSOE - Grainery Theatre Wednesday 23 - Friday 25

THE BLACK SORROWS Saturday 26, Sunday 27

COREY HARRIS Wednesday 30

OCTOBER SUZE DEMARCHI Friday 2

1927 Saturday 3

YOUTH ROCKIN THE BLACK DOG GRAND FINAL Wednesday 7

MORE SHOWS added daily.

LIVE SHOWS starting from

$65 (including dinner)

BOOK ONLINE NOW + See who else is coming to dinner...

lizottes.com.au or PH 4956 2066 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 11

WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER

DON'T MISS...

SYDNEY COMEDY FESTIVAL SHOWCASE SATURDAY SEP 5 Featuring the crème de la crème of the 2015 Sydney Comedy Festival right on your doorstep!

Boasting a line-up of the best local and international comics and showcasing some of the funniest and freshest emerging talents, you will be left sore from belly laughs due to this jam packed night of pure entertainment! Showing at Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Get your tickets quick! www.civictheatre.com.au

Produced by Nick Didia (Pearl Jam/Springsteen/Rage Against the Machine) from Studio 301 in Ash’s home town of Byron Bay, NOW is set to stand as a sonic landmark in Ash Grunwald’s career as a respected Australian roots musician. Grunwald delves into a more experimental and modern approach explaining his intention was to create a “modern psychedelic, sci-fi, swamp rock, blues album, if there is such a thing. Ha!” Drawing inspiration from collaborators Ian Peres (Wolfmother) on synth, Pete Wilkins (formerly Blue King Brown) and of course Nick Didia, Ash aimed to It is almost approach the album with a traditional power impossible not to be trio reminiscent of seminal acts such as transported into Ash’s world, Hendrix and Cream. where the relationship between “I wanted to go in there with a classic a grinding guitar and a stony, power trio like Hendrix but use a synth rock-strewn voice is all that is player instead of a bass, Ian Peres brought needed to convey absolute that and a whole lot more playing a fair bit exhilaration. of rock organ in there, which is something that he honed whilst playing in Wolfmother. In - Jmag the studio we used a whole lot of our own effects, for example, I had the same vocal effect that I use when I play live. While doing vocal takes, I had a guitar delay pedal on a music stand that I would tweak to the feel of the song if I got it wrong, we did it again. The effects were very much part of the music, which Nick encouraged. Nick's approach was to basically coach the band into doing the best possible performances as he pulled the sound he was chasing in real time. The aim was for the end product to be as close as With the current climate of the music industry making it difficult possible to be what we were delivering live in the studio.”

ASH GRUNWALD… Giving back and paying it forward with new album launch

for independent musicians to record, release and market music – Ash Grunwald to the standard of major commercial recording artists, Ash NOW will be released on September 24th prior to Ash’s 28 Grunwald’s forthcoming release would not have been possible if it wasn’t for the support of his fans through the crowd funding date national NOW tour – which includes Wickham Park Hotel (Islington) on Thursday, October 1st (tickets available through phenomenon ‘Pledge Music’.

NEWCASTLE EMERGING ART PRIZE 2015 SATURDAY SEP 12 Celebrating 15 years this year, The NEAP was established to encourage and support emerging artists in our region. Newcastle Art Space on Parry Street, Hamilton, hosts the annual event where a pool of $7000 in prizes will be awarded in the painting, sculpture, photo-media and textile areas. Join them on the opening awards night on the 12th or see the exhibition in full swing before it ends on September 27!

The campaign will continue to run until the album release on September 25th and gives fans the opportunity to pledge on unique experiences and exclusive offers including meet and greets, music lessons, VIP packages, intimate house concerts and more! With a desire to be socially and morally responsible and conscious, Ash Grunwald will donate 5% of all profits raised by his Pledge Music campaign towards 350.org, an organisation working towards building a global climate movement to eradicate the use of fossil fuels and to create a sustainable future.

www.bigtix.com.au).

We have 5 copies of Ash’s soon to be released NOW CD to giveaway!

To win, visit the GIVEAWAYS page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au. Register for intouch online and tell us why you’re Ash’s biggest fan! Good Luck!

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WHAT’S ON CRACK THEATRE FESTIVAL

the audience sits and watches. If you want to go on a quest or if you wish to attend a play reading you can because we’ve got close to 70 events and all of them are free.”

In addition to an abundance of performances, the Crack Theatre Festival program will also feature professional development workshops, master classes, talks and artistic community-building opportunities.

WORDS: Michelle Meehan IMAGES: Courtesy of Crack Theatre Festival

Festival offers CRACKING good time in Newcastle Newcastle will play host to the ninth annual Crack Theatre Festival early next month as established and emerging artists from across Australia take their acts off the theatre stage and on to the streets for four days of experimental experiences.

When Alice tumbled down the rabbit hole in Lewis Carroll’s famous children’s book, she soon came to expect the unexpected around every corner during her adventures in Wonderland.

The same can be said for those who venture into Newcastle during October 1 to 4 when the city opens its doors – and laneways, car parks and disused shop fronts – to a festival that offers up theatrical experiences like you’ve never seen them before.

Presented as part of the independent arts festival This Is Not Art (TiNA), Crack Theatre Festival is an avenue for artists to present innovative works, free of charge, to audiences in nontraditional spaces.

“It’s really important to us that we’re responsive to what Newcastle has to offer and what Newcastle has to offer is non-traditional theatre spaces, – the empty storefronts, the unused buildings,” Hannah said.

A non-judgemental space is imperative for people going out on a limb like that. And because it’s not a traditional theatre setting it makes the work really accessible.

- Hannah Strout

“We don’t want to just be dropping in and trying to make it fit in Newcastle, we want to use what Newcastle has. There’s also research showing that non-traditional theatres spaces are a far better way for artists who are trying new things or may have never performed before, to present their work" she said.

But Finn said the performers were not the only ones who benefitted from the Festival utilising non-traditional spaces.

“From an audience point of view it’s pretty exciting, if you’re either used to going to see shows or if you’re not a traditional theatre-goer, to climb up stairs to a disused department store, it’s pretty exciting,” she said.

“There’s a kind of sense of adventure, finding art living in spaces that sometimes you’re not even allowed to go into normally.”

Celebrating diversity and eccentricity, the Festival will incorporate close to 70 events presented by a diverse mix of performers – including a strong contingent from the Hunter - testing original material, touring collaborative works and experimenting with new ideas.

Highlights include a discussion from culture writer Jane Howard on the politics of preserving performance through reviews, documentation and script publishing; and an exploration workshop led by theatre radical Rowan McDonald exploring Image Theatre.

This year will also see the launch of the 24 Hour Generator, an intensive theatre-making program facilitated by esteemed theatre-maker Chris Ryan, in which all participants are tasked with creating a brand new work in 24 hours. The last hour of the challenge will include a live performance of the work.

While this will be the ninth time the Crack Theatre Festival has descended on Newcastle, it is only the second year Hannah and Finn have been at the helm as its Artistic Directors.

The pair, who live thousands of kilometres apart and have only seen each other face-to-face less than a dozen times (Hannah is based in Sydney, Finn in Perth) share a common goal – to see the Festival continue to grow into an event that is truly representative of Australia’s artistic community.

“Our overall vision is to be this entirely national festival where we are truly representative of the artists that are around in Australia, not just the east coast with a smattering from everywhere else,” Hannah said.

And neither Finn nor Hannah has any doubts about Newcastle being the perfect place for the Festival and TiNA to continue to flourish.

“I actually went to Newcastle for TiNA for the first time when I was living in Darwin as a teenager, and it changed my life completely,” Finn said. “I got there and I knew that this was “We’ve got such a broad range of art forms this year and one of the place for me, I’d found my people and I made friends with the things that Hannah and I are really proud of is that we have people I’m still friends with."

Forget merely watching thespians tread the boards on a the largest group of Novocastrian and Hunter Region artists darkened stage – the Festival takes those pre-conceived that we’ve ever had before, which is really exciting,” Finn said.

“There’s a special feeling about Newcastle because there’s so notions of going to the theatre and gives them the “Wonderland” many creative spaces popping up through organisations such treatment, offering up instead a range of new experimental “We’ve got things like installation works where you can swap as Renew Newcastle, that we’re really pleased to be working performances that include everything from stand-up comedy memories with a local artist, she’s got 500 objects from her life with this year, and with organisations like Octopod and Tantrum in a warehouse to a performance work in a car park and an and stories attached to it and you can swap her with your own Youth Arts, who we’re also working with. installation in a laneway. objects and memories. We’ve also got interactive works where you can be one-on-one with an artist to find a true connection.

“I think there are thousands and thousands of people all across The Festival’s two Artistic Directors - Finn O’Brangáin and Australia, who have such fond memories of developing as Hannah Strout – said Newcastle was the ideal location for an We’ve got works where the audience votes on what happens artists and as people in Newcastle and that’s pretty special.” event that has such a strong focus on experimentation and next in the show, and more traditional sorts of works where breaking away from tradition. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 13

WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER its roots as a showcase for local talent, to national audiences,’ said newly-appointed Executive Producer, Kate Britton.

What's happening at

“Whether participants and audiences remember TiNA from the good old days or are experiencing it for the first time, we believe that it can energise, inspire and excite. Prepare for an enhanced festival atmosphere with visibly activated public spaces to complement the program – Newcastle is in for one hell of a party thanks to this stellar line-up!”

The National Young Writers Festival (NYWF) is the country’s largest gathering of young and innovative writers working in both new and traditional forms including zines, comics, blogging, screenwriting, poetry, spoken word, hip hop music, journalism, autobiography, comedy, song writing and prose. The festival presents ‘writing’ in its broadest sense through panels, discussions, workshops, launches, performances, readings, installations, and more.

Welcome to our first monthly column to keep you updated on all that is happening at the largest shopping and entertainment destination in the Hunter – Charlestown Square.

Best & Less are now located on the Ground Level next to Terry White Chemists; Millers has moved to Level 2 next to Myer; April’s Massage has opened a new store on Level 2 opposite helloworld and Direct Shoe Warehouse has opened on Level 2 next to Nextra Express in the North Piazza.

As there will be various changes to stores within the centre over the coming months, you can be the first to know about changes and new store openings by joining our database at charlestownsquare.com.au

Spring is in the air so it’s time to shake off the winter blues and step into colour! If you’re looking to update your wardrobe or need some fashion inspiration, book today for one of our styling services. These include free 20 minute style sessions available on Fridays and Saturdays in The Style Centre, or perhaps more time with Natalie Baker, our Stylist to help find the perfect look for you. Natalie is available for paid styling sessions from one hour, which includes a 5 hour free parking pass so you can take your time to explore over 100 fashion stores located here. Bookings are a must at charlestownsquare.com.au It’s Father’s Day on Sunday 6 September! If you’re stuck for a unique idea, enter our competition for your chance to win Dad a $250 Charlestown Square Gift Card plus Reading Cinemas tickets including 2 x Gold Lounge vouchers. It’s easy to enter – sign up now at charlestownsquare.com.au and join our database.

Enjoy The Hunter’s favourite place during September.

Regards,

Therese

Marketing Team

14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Clowns, comedians and a whistle-blower to attend open invitation 18th Birthday Party for THIS IS NOT ART!

Critical Animals will host the ‘Out Of Place Symposium’ at The Lock-Up, exploring how we engage and collaborate with our communities through a series of panels, workshops and exhibitions with a contemporary art focus. One such event, hosted by Triple J Hack reporter Alice Workman, explores Australia's place on the world's stage and questions whether we are leaders, followers or detractors with a panel that includes foreign correspondents.

As well as providing the soundtrack to TiNA in 2015, Ladyz in Noyz Australia will teach girls how to navigate a mixing desk and their Sonic Kids’ Workshop will be a hands-on exploration of how sounds are created with scientist and musician Dr Claire Pannell.

Since its humble beginnings, This is Not Art (known to Other program highlights include the ‘Asian Ghost-ery Store’, friends as TiNA) has been Newcastle’s festival. These days a late-night trolley ride of story, sketch, performance and TiNA is commemorating its 18th birthday and has earned the reputation of being one of Australia’s most exciting and longest- meandering rumination. Audiences will don lab coats and vote on a protagonist's actions at a house party using smartphones running experimental arts festivals. in the interactive play ‘PressOne4Love’, and the immersive installation ‘NEVERLAND’ will provide a treasure map to Come the October long weekend (October 1 – 4), TiNA will punters, guiding them through the fantasy world of a late 90s occupy a spectrum of spaces, providing a unique and exciting snapshot of what the East End has to offer and celebrating with teen bedroom. a jampacked program of events including The National Young ‘ART FIT’ provides a series of therapeutic workouts for the Writers Festival (NYWF), Critical Animals, Crack Theatre modern creative, such as “abstractercise” - a gymnasium for Festival (see article on Page 13) and very special first-time the imagination. The four unique mind, body and soul teasers guests, Ladyz in Noyz Australia. will be engaging hour-long workouts that shake off cobwebs to reimagine, reinvigorate and power up participants’ artistic With over 150 options for entertainment, inspiration, practices. discussion and delight, there will be streams of interest to appeal to the creative community, innovators, change-makers, This Is Not Art – it’s an idea and a party, a new friend and a cultural vultures, teens and the general public, young and old. fresh perspective. It’s Newcastle’s festival – so get involved.

The festival runs from Thursday 1st to Sunday 4th October.

“We’re set to reinvigorate the festival in 2015, consolidating Visit www.thisisnotart.org for full program. past successes while also bringing the festival back firmly to

WIN WIN WIN!

You may have heard that The GPT Group is investing in Charlestown Square to create an exciting change with a new development, which will deliver international retailers plus we are remixing the centre. Works have commenced in the previous Best & Less mall area and Level 2 behind the previous Queenspark store, as we have begun to re-locate several stores to make way for the construction.

GET JAZZY IN THE VINEYARDS! WIN ONE OF TWO DOUBLE PASSES! It’s the longest running festival in the Hunter Valley now in its 23rd year! On Saturday, October 31st, fans of all ages will descend on Pokolbin for one of the biggest days on the Hunter’s social calendar – Jazz in the Vines. It’s about Music, Food, Wine and Dance, it’s Australia’s biggest mosh pit with over six hectares of freedom to enjoy a spectacular day in the fresh air and sunshine.

This year’s musical line-up is stunning – including Ross Wilson and The Peaceniks, James Morrison, Steve Clisby, and John Morrisons Heavy Metal Jazz Orchestra (just to name a few!)

Jazz in the Vines is much more than just the music with the festival site taking on a vibrancy of its own with various market stalls, local wine makers, restaurants and produce in the

spacious, laid back setting that Jazz in the Vines has made its trademark. For more information and ticket sales visit www.jazzinthevines.com.au

HOW TO ENTER For your chance to win this fabulous prize (valued at over $150 each) visit the intouch magazine giveaways page at www. intouchmagazine.com.au Register to be kept intouch online and let us know which act you would most like to catch at Jazz in the Vines and why! It’s that easy!

Good Luck! (Entries Close midnight September 30th, 2015)

WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER

HOME

PROVIDES INSPIRATION FOR BABY ANIMALS FRONT WOMAN When Suze DeMarchi returned to Australia after a stellar 20-year stint filling sales charts and playing arenas throughout the world, she knew she’d come “home”. As the front lady for the Baby Animals, DeMarchi enjoyed unrivalled international success but the lure of her homeland ultimately proved too strong.

The Western Australia-raised artist returned with her family in 2009 for a homecoming that was tempered by mixed emotions. DeMarchi has tapped into this well to create a rare solo project, a tribute to home.

On Home, DeMarchi teams with some of Australia’s leading rockers, from Jimmy Barnes to Tex Perkins, Russell Morris, Diesel and labelmate Dallas Frasca, covering works made famous by the likes of Adele, Ryan Adams, Stevie Ray Vaughan and The Clash. And there’s one common theme binding all the tracks... home.

“Home meant so much to me when I was away and it was a really tough time when I came back,” she recalls. “For me, it’s your safe place.

It was crucial for me to get home to Australia and to get my kids feeling good and happy, and for me to start working again properly. The subject matter is really important to me. Home means everything to me. It always really has.

Wherever I’ve lived, I’ve always made it my home and my most important place.”

The terrible time she describes can be ascribed to the breakup of her marriage after 18 years, a break that occurred not long after that long haul Down Under. Friends, family, bandmates and home helped heal the wounds. On the album “Home”, DeMarchi captures this

Whatever I do, I want people to hear it. I don’t want people to not hear it.

My dreams are my ambitions, to keep doing stuff that keeps me happy. And for as many people as possible to hear it.

Youth Rockin’ the Black Dog is an annual music competition designed to raise awareness of youth mental health issues and support positive mental health among young people in the Hunter and surrounding regions.

The competition encourages young people to get thinking and talking about mental health with their friends, family and networks and aims to promote a range of local and national services available to support young people.

HEATS TAKING PLACE AT LIZOTTE’S NEWCASTLE 31 Morehead St, Lambton, 6.30pm

joy and pain. In a parallel to her own journey, DeMarchi has changed direction with this new album.

Home is unlike any album DeMarchi has recorded before, both in its sound and in the way she’s set about shaping it. She’s embraced an alt-country-hued sound with a team of unfamiliar collaborators. Drummer Mick Skelton is the only other Baby Animal on this record. It’s unmistakably Suze DeMarchi, though caught in a different light.

“It wasn’t right for the Baby Animals to do this.

Sure, the thought crossed my mind but Baby Animals fans want to hear a Baby Animals record, not a bunch of softer songs. And I wanted to do it on my own. It was a challenge, to work with new people. Working with new people is excellent for you as an artist. It pushes you creatively. You’re always trying to do your best around new people. You don’t want to let anyone down.”

DeMarchi has been hitting the road throughout 2015 with Baby Animals for the “She, Who Rocks” national tour. “The Baby Animals stuff is like riding a bike: you know what you’re supposed to do, you’ve done it so often,” DeMarchi muses. “This is another thing altogether. I’m thrilled with how the album sounds and the band is up for it.”

Though she’s enjoyed the glory and success of a high profile international rock ‘n’ roll career, DeMarchi has so much more to achieve. “I’m a dreamer, I want big dreams” she says with a laugh.

Intouch readers can catch Suze in September when she performs solo at Lizotte’s Newcastle on Friday October 2nd, and fronting the Baby Animals at Live at the Foreshore in November.

For tickets to her solo show at Lizotte’s visit www.newcastle.lizottes.com.au

HEAT ONE WEDNESDAY SEP 2 HEAT TWO WEDNESDAY SEP 9 HEAT THREE WEDNESDAY SEP 16 GRAND FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FRIDAY SEP 25 VIA THE YRBD FACEBOOK AND WEBSITE

GRAND FINAL

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 7 GET YOUR TICKETS!

LIVE HEATS Wednesdays 2nd, 9th and 16th September, entry is $5.00. No booking is required, however, you can secure seating by booking in advance from Lizotte's Newcastle on 4956 2066.

GRAND FINAL Wednesday 7th October, entry is $18.00 with bookings made through Lizotte’s Newcastle.

www.newcastle.lizottes.com.au/live or Phone 4956 2066

GET MORE INFO! Hunter Institute of Mental Health PH 4924 6900 E himh@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au

www.himh.org.au/yrbd

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

WHAT’S ON BELLA

Multi-award winning Country Vocal sensation Bella will play their final hometown show of their She Still Believes Tour (launched last year to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of their first Golden Guitar successes) at Belmont 16s on Saturday, 19th September.

These world-class shows have been one of the few occasions in many years that Country Music fans have had the opportunity to hear this unique vocal super-group perform live. But now the tour, and Bella itself are coming to an end.

We sat down with one-third of the Bella Trio, Lyn Bowtell, to reminisce about her time with Bella, the unique challenges of being part of an all-girl band and find out what she will miss most when Bella sing their final note at Tamworth in January and hang up the guitars for good.

Bella's Final Celebration of Friendship and Song Lyn, thanks so much for fitting time into your busy schedule to chat with us. We’d love to know a little about your childhood. Did you come from a musical family? At what age did you discover you could sing? Both my parents were musical. My Dad played accordion with his father and brother for the ‘old time dances’, he also sang, played piano, organ and drums. Mum sings and can play the piano accordion, autoharp and bag-pipes. I grew up listening to them both playing music around the house. I think I could sing as soon as I could talk…

I was always making up melodies and humming a song. It was around the age of 12 that I started performing in front of people.

What was “little Lyn” like? ‘Little Lyn’ was a happy go lucky little Tomboy - I grew up on a small property in Kleinton, Queensland. I have two older brothers so I spent most of my time as a child with them, riding four-wheelers and helping out on the farm.

How many years have Bella been playing together? 13 years give or take!

How did you meet? Was there an instant bond/friendship?

I first met Karen O’Shea in 1997 at the CMAA Academy of Country Music and Kate Ballantyne at the Gympie Muster that same year. We were all involved in the Toyota Star Maker Competition; I won in 1997, Kate in 1998 and Karen was a Grand Finalist in 2000.

Our bonds as a band were formed when I introduced the girls to each other and we sang some impromptu harmonies at one of Kate’s shows in Tamworth in 1999. It was unrehearsed and raw, but there was a unique blend of voices… it was obvious we were meant to sing together. And we made each other laugh, a lot!

You were all soloists and achieving accolades and awards individually – what made you decide to come together? Our close friendship and a love of harmony. Singing together was always something special, and I’ll never forget how happy I felt and how musically rewarding it was to work together.

The decision was an obvious one, for us and for those who heard us together!

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How did Bella get their first big break?

We were playing at ‘The Brewery’ in Newcastle on Sunday afternoons once a month under the name ‘Anam Cara’ (Celtic for ‘Soul Friend’). Star Maker organisers, Barry Harley and Kate Nugent heard we were singing together and decided to take a trip down from Tamworth to see us.

From left: Kate Ballantyne, Lyn Bowtell and Karen O'Shea

Queensland. Our most recent performances at Tamworth were also very powerful. We’re singing better than ever, I guess we’ve come of age, and have a much stronger sense of self than earlier in our careers.

What changes have you seen in the Country Music industry over the years? There’s been a lot of influence from other genres, and the sub-genres of Americana and Alt-Country have really taken off. I’ve seen an influx of Bro-Country and Pop-Country, even the likes of Guy Sebastian We were playing at ‘The getting in on the scene.

Brewery’ in Newcastle on Sunday afternoons once a month under the name ‘Anam Cara’. Star Maker organisers, Barry Harley and Kate Nugent heard we were singing together and decided to take a trip down from Tamworth to see us.

They were so impressed that they offered to help us finance the recording of an EP. Our first Golden Guitar Award in 2004 was for that EP (Tumblin’ Down, which was released through their label AgSongs). We then went on to record and release our album Gravity through BMG 12 months later.

There are positives and negatives to all collaborations – does being part of an all-girl collaboration have unique challenges? Yes of course! Kate has had my blush brush for nearly 10 years now, and I suspect she plans on keeping it!

Karen has great taste in boots but extremely small feet - it’s that kind of selfishness that can cause conflict in any all-girl collaboration! I’m somewhat accident prone and am always breaking Kate’s sunglasses (which is partly why I’m hesitant to raise the blush brush issue…)

How have you managed to juggle three families over the years and keep touring/performing? What keeps you all sane? It’s challenging when you are each other’s babysitters that’s for sure! I think that we all have wonderful friends around us so that keeps us as sane and as grounded as one can be in this industry!

What has been your most memorable moment while touring? There have been so many, I remember the electricity of performing on the main stage at Gympie Muster on the Saturday night with a massive crowd and bright lights – truly adrenaline pumping. Then there was the beautiful people and iconic scenery of our Tour of Italy, and the ancient landscape and Aboriginal art of Katherine Gorge and Far North

The biggest changes have been in the recording industry generally and how our music is consumed by the public through downloading and streaming as opposed to the purchase of a physical CD. This signals challenging times ahead for artist income. I think the message is the same, though, real music, real people and songs with a story to tell.

What do you love/hate the most about touring?

I love travelling around this beautiful country. I love packing my suitcase for a purpose and heading off to sing my songs. I love sound check and I love the show! I hate fast food and mediocre coffee… so I’m always pleased to come home to a nice cup of Merlo and a home-cooked meal.

When Bella plays its final show this month and you leave the stage for the last time as a trio - what will you miss most?

September 19th will mark our last Newcastle show… Our final ever show will be at Tamworth Country Music Festival 2016 in January.

I will miss the people who love our music. I will miss the faces of our Fans as they sing along. I will miss my girl’s voices ringing in my ears. We are and always will be friends first so I won’t miss Karen and Kate, I will just enjoy more barbecues and campfire sing-alongs with my beautiful Bella girls.

I’m proud of every moment, every song, every note we’ve ever sung together…and we’ll have that forever.

Join Bella at Belmont 16s for their final ever Newcastle show, and a beautiful celebration of friendship and song from one of the country’s finest female vocal groups. For tickets and more information about Bella’s last hometown show visit www.proticket.com.au

WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER their critically acclaimed debut album Guillotine.

They won the AIR Award that year and followed up the release with two Top 10 albums – Thieves in 2008 and Avalanche in 2010.

Meet The Block Stars Alisa and Lysandra

The band signed to Liberation Musican and released their fourth album Controller (their third consecutive ARIA Top 10 debut) in 2013, which also scored them their first ever gold record for the song 'I Can Make You Love Me'.

BRITISH INDIA NATIONAL TOUR 2015 Riding high on the success of their fifth album Nothing Touches Me, British India will embark on a national tour to finish up 2015, which also includes a trip to America for shows in New York and LA. It has been an outstanding year for the local indie rockers. Their fifth studio album Nothing Touches Me debuted at number 5 on the ARIA Albums Chart and saw the band complete their most successful national tour to date, with a string of 18 sold out shows, including three in their hometown of Melbourne.

The four school friends emerged from Melbourne’s independent scene in 2007 with

British India were handpicked to play with both The Rolling Stones on their recent 2014 On Fire Tour and replaced The Black Keys at this year’s Bluesfest in Byron Bay. Their fifth album, Nothing Touches Me, reached #5 on the ARIA Albums Chart and yielded the singles 'Wrong Direction' and 'Suddenly'. 'Wrong Direction' awarded the band their seventh ever entry into triple J’s Hottest 100 countdown this year.

Free in-store event at Forty Winks Kotara Design duo Alisa and Lysandra will be in-store for a special two hour guest appearance, hosting an exclusive bedroom styling session to celebrate the launch of their Asta Suite, exclusive to Forty Winks!

British India will embark on another massive 20-date tour from September 18, which includes two weeks of touring in the US. The boys will also play three Australian dates with American rockers Imagine Dragons in September. If you’re quick, you can catch British India at The Cambridge Hotel on Saturday, September 19th – tickets are on sale now from www.bigtix.com.au

ROCKWIZ LIVE! SALUTES THE ARIA HALL OF FAME.

Following the highly acclaimed 13th Series of RocKwiz Salutes The Decades, Australia’s favourite television music trivia show is once again going on the road to present Rockwiz Live!

Salutes The Aria Hall of Fame. This fabulous, fun-filled live show features some of your favourite Australian music legends performing their hits, alongside the brightest and best contemporary artists interpreting genuine Australian classics.

These live shows won’t be filmed; so being there, front and centre, is the only way to experience the special magic of a RocKwiz Live! performance.

As Rock Brain Brian Nankervis says, “We stretch out and improvise more in the live shows, taking risks and experimenting without worrying about cameras and lights. It’s liberating and often produces delightfully unexpected results.”

Don’t miss out! RocKwiz Live will be lighting up the stage of the Civic Theatre Newcastle on Saturday, October 3rd.

For more information visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

value Entertainment Pass! And Charlestown Square’s great value Kids Entertainment Pass is even better value for the September/ October school holidays with a bonus small popcorn or bonus choc-top offer added to the deal!

Did you know that Charlestown Square is the only shopping and entertainment destination in The Hunter with an 8 screen cinema complex – including 2 luxurious Gold Lounges, Strike bowling alley with laser tag, Megamania playland and café - complete with interactive kids zone, plus Timezone all in the one place?

The best way to enjoy all these great entertainment options is with the amazing

For just $37.00 kids can enjoy a movie at Reading Cinemas, plus bowling at Strike Bowling Bar, playtime at Megamania and Timezone plus other treats. Valued at over $61.00 plus the bonus popcorn or choc top for the coming school holidays only, Kids Entertainment Passes are valid until 31 December 2015 and on sale from the Customer Service Desk.

There are also Adult Passes available for $35.00 and Students Passes for $29.00 – each packed with amazing value. The bonus small popcorn or choc-top offer is available from Thursday 18 September with Kids Entertainment Passes while stocks last. Pick up your Entertainment Pass today or give it as a gift!

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Kotara Kotara Home 150 Park Avenue Ph: 02 4965 5233

fortywinks.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

WHAT’S ON SEPTEMBER

Newcastle Self-guided

WALKIN G TO UR S See your city from a NEW perspective!

T he Arti s t ’s C i t y

Captain James Cook Memorial Fountain (detail) Margel Hinder 1961-66

N ewc a s t l e A rch i tect u re

Beyond by CIRCA...

Wonderfully Bizarre and Surreal

Over the course of Beyond we meet the artists, marvel at their skills, enter their personalities and emerge into a strangely beautiful and curiously tender world.

It’s been warmly described as “Alice in Wonderland meets Charles Darwin”. Welcome to the wonderfully bizarre world of CIRCA! Beyond, the brainchild of director Yaron “It should be pointed out that this is a Lifschitz. There is a line between human and animal, between madness and sanity, between show that will appeal to youngsters, maybe not littlies but certainly anyone logic and dream… Lifschitz invites you to step over this line… and go Beyond.

12 and over. It’s accessible, theatrical, Beyond is warm, surreal and unexpectedly moving. Blending dynamic circus acts like trapeze and Chinese pole with cheeky feats of strength and multiple bunny heads, set to a bewitching mix of show tunes, ballads and electronica, this creation delights and enchants.

Set on multiple stages within stages, small redcurtained worlds offer a glimpse of this rich and

City Administration Centre

empathetic world. Maybe we are in a cabaret, a zoo, an asylum or a stage. Seven artists have gathered here tonight to express their inner selves and to connect with each other and the audience.

hilarious at times and also very moving, which makes it a pretty emotionally satisfying experience.”

- Phil Brown, The Courier Mail Experience CIRCA Beyond in all it's glory at the Civic Theatre from 18th to 19th of September.

For more information and ticket sales visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Discover a lifetime love of SAILING N ewc a s t l e a t Wa r

Fort Scratchley

. . . a n d mo re!

For more information visit:

www.visitnewcastle.com.au 1918AUG15

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The Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club is opening its doors to aspiring sailors this month for a day of sailing. The club’s experienced sailors will take people interested in the sport for a sail on the harbour as part of Discover Sailing Day on September 12.

Club Commodore Jim Holley says the Discover Sailing Day is free and is aimed at demonstrating how fun, safe and affordable it is. “If you’ve always wondered what sailing is all about then this is the perfect opportunity to come and enjoy a free sail. We provide the boats and safety equipment – all you have to do is bring a spare set of clothes, a sun hat, some sun screen and bucket loads of enthusiasm.”

“The Discover Sailing Day offers you the opportunity to go for a short sail with an experienced sailor, have a look around, enjoy the club’s facilities and find out about the great sailing courses available in the heart of Newcastle.”

Jim Holley says last year was so popular the club was overwhelmed with people keen to try sailing for the first time. “The day was so popular that many of the people who took part came back and booked into our learn to sail programs. We were overwhelmed with numbers so it’s important to book in early.”

“A dedicated Discover Sailing Host will welcome you to the club, answer any questions you may have and ensure you have a great day out with friends and family. We’ve designed the day so that it’s kid friendly and children as young as five can take part with their family.”

The club will be offering sails of its ocean going racing yachts, F24 training keel boats and Olympic class Lasers. The day begins at 10am and finishes at 2pm. To register online, visit www.ncyc.net.au

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

feel

with us at Golden Door find that they are free to make real connections with other guests and while, at first, may be adverse to the idea of not having their phone on them at all times actually employ ‘tech-free time’ when they go home, for example by making meals a strictly no phone time. Our guests make life long friends at the Retreat and we believe it’s because they are truly sharing their experiences together by giving their full presence every day and taking it all in from moment to moment.

alive this spring

E-Tox

your life at Golden Door

save up to

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when you book your stay at Golden Door this Spring Experience time out to replenish and recharge at our world renowned retreat.

For over 20 years Golden Door has changed the lives of tens of thousands of people.

Our famous 2, 3, 5 and 7 night all-inclusive programs will leave you feeling invigorated.

CALL OUR TEAM TODAY 1800 212 011 OR VISIT GOLDENDOOR.COM.AU

Generally speaking, what are some of the key health/wellness and psychological benefits of having a break from technology? Some of the benefits include better concentration, improved posture, stress reduction, improved creativity and an overall better work/life balance. Many people also find they even have a better night’s sleep and are more productive at work.

Your relationships with others also benefits immensely when you take regular breaks from technology and you’ll find leisure time is even more enjoyable.

Ever feel like you are totally over-loaded by technology? SMS's, Emails, Mobile Phones... all begging to be answered can leave you feeling torn apart at the limbs and wishing you put them all into a box and throw them off a cliff (don't laugh - I actually dream of doing What sort of feedback do you have from exactly this!). guests about the e-toxing experience? Do people tend to implement it in their regular It seems I'm not alone , so this month we lives, post-retreat? Much of the time we have talked to Brigid Walsh, General Manager of guests come to Golden Door and they are so Golden Door Health Retreat & Spa Elysia about wary of the e-tox experience, however once technology addiction and how Golden Door they’ve had a few days to get used to it they assist with the e-toxing process for their Health discover this whole new lease on life. I’ve Spa guests. had guests tell me that they’ve never felt so energised before with a better sense of self and Could you please outline the Golden Door’s focus. approach to technology? Are guests encouraged to limit their use of technology, People definitely implement e-toxing in their gadgets etc for the duration of their stay? Do regular lives once they experience a Golden you have a formal ‘e-toxing’ program in place, Door program from making meals a phone-free where guests are supported through this time to switching off emails after 6pm. It only process? So many of our guests aren’t aware has to be a small change at a time but it can of how completely addicted to their technology make the world of difference to your health, they have become until they experience the quality of life and relationships.

Golden Door program. We limit the use of technology to rooms to ensure everyone gets What makes Golden Door Elysia unique in the most out of everything we offer here at the health retreats space? Who is it for?

Golden Door and are able to be fully present in Any key attractions? Located in the stunning the moment. While there is no formal e-toxing NSW Hunter Valley Golden Door Health Retreat program at this time, we do support guests & Spa Elysia is the only purpose built health by encouraging them and teaching them to retreat in Australia and we cater to anyone practice mindfulness and slow down. We’ve over the age of 16 and all levels of health and also recently launched our Corporate Wellness fitness. Our world-class programs are designed program, which is perfect for ‘conscious to give guests the information and tools they leaders’ and businesses that are increasingly need to live well and achieve life-long health looking for new ways to optimise the physical, and wellness. Our all-inclusive two, three, mental and social health of their employees. five and seven night programs have changed E-toxing is a major component of this program the lives of tens of thousands of people and as we find those in the corporate sector are have been developed to motivate change and especially susceptible to the negative impacts connect mind, body and spirit – all while taking of technology. in the magnificent Brokenback mountain range and breathing in the fresh air. We also offer a Why do you advise guests to disconnect range of specialty retreats throughout the year from their devices? What’s the thinking on topics such as meditation and mindfulness behind this? In what way will it enrich their with key health and wellbeing practitioners, retreat experience? An essential part of which are especially popular. In addition, our living well is being mindful and it’s proven on-site spa Spa Elysia offers a wide range of that technology and the constant distractions treatments, including our signature Watsu of mobile phones/laptops/iPads are having treatment, in one of the largest Spa facilities in huge negative impacts on how we live and Australia. connect with others and ourselves. Constant connectivity is great for business and getting Brigid - thanks for talking to us and sharing in touch with loved ones who live far away but your insight into technology and health. it also puts us under an extreme amount of Now... I just have to return all my missed calls... pressure to always be available. Those who stay www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

Body Worx WORDS: Jason Bradley

Physiotherapist at BodyWorx Physiotherapy Physiotherapy

Back pain affects over 80% of people at some stage in their life and it can have wide-reaching effects on physical, mental and social health. Being limited in your ability to stay active, look after your house or children and spend time with friends can be depressing, but that doesn’t need to be the case.

If you experience back pain now or have in the past, try these 5 simple tips to boost your back health and get back to doing the things you enjoy in life.

1. Low back stretches/yoga: The number 1 prescribed

stretch for low back pain in Australia is extension. Lie on your tummy, hands flat under each shoulder and push up leaving

2. Cardiovascular exercise: Look at including two or three 30 minute cardio sessions each week. A good place to start is some gentle swimming, pool walking or regular walking.

Studies demonstrate a direct relationship between regular cardiovascular exercise and lower levels of back pain.

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neck and shoulders it also increases the pressure on the discs in your lower back. Remember to try and maintain a gentle curve through the lower back rather than slumping down into your chair or car seat. A cheap and simple solution is to place a rolled towel behind your lower back.

Low back pain is not a life sentence. Our Physiotherapists at BodyWorx work with you to develop a plan to help you get back to your optimal function and health. We also work with you so that you can independently maintain your pain-free state long term. Take control of your health and be prepared to live pain-free.

For more information, you can download Jason’s free E-Book ‘Back pain- what is it and 10 tips to beat it’ from www.bodyworxphysio.com.au under the 'Free Ebooks' tab.

4. Bend your knees: As a physio we rarely treat someone

who has injured their knees bending to pick something up, but

ess m Ass Phy sio Init ial Fre e

Physiotherapy

5. Watch your posture: Poor posture not only impacts your

3. Inner core work: No, not just sit-ups and the various devices on infomercials aren’t it either. You need to know how to activate the small muscles that support your lower back.

To activate these muscles gently pull your lower tummy in while squeezing up like you are trying to stop yourself peeing. This activates your transverse abdomens and pelvic floor. Hold this contraction for 10 seconds, relax and repeat 10 times.

If you struggle with this, you are best speaking with your local physiotherapist or exercise physiologist.

ARE YOU SUFFERING WITH PAIN OR INJURY? Body Worx

injured backs from lifting are a regular occurrence. Remember when lifting something there are 3 key elements: assess if you should lift it alone, get close to the item being lifted and bend your knees while keeping your spine neutral.

your hips on the ground. Hold for a second and repeat. Try completing 30 of these stretches.

ent !

5

PRACTICAL TIPS for reducing BACK PAIN

Find the cause and solution to your problem at BodyWorx!

Why use BodyWorx Physio?

• One-on-one care in private rooms.

• Dry needling, massage and exercise based care.

• Onsite claiming health funds through HICAPS. • Awarded Australian Small Business Champion Physio 2015.

• Extended open hours 8am-8pm Monday-Friday plus Saturdays.

Book online at www.bodyworxphysio.com.au or PH 4952 7033. Shop 1, 78 Glebe Rd, The Junction

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

Have you visited The Style Centre @ Charlestown Square? It’s unique in Newcastle and the Hunter region with no other shopping centre providing a purposely built space to provide guests with fashion inspiration and beauty information to assist in new season purchases.

From now until the end of November, The Style Centre @ Charlestown Square offers FREE 20 minute style consultations with Natalie Baker, Centre Stylist on Friday and Saturday between 9am – 4pm. As an added incentive, guests who pre-book online receive a free $20 GPT Gift Card to kick start new season fashions at their consultation with Natalie. These popular sessions book fast, so if you’re keen to update, add to or enhance your new season look, head to the Charlestown Square website to secure your spot.

Over the past three years, the age of Style Centre guests has ranged from a young girl aged just 9 years through to a 91 year old who wanted to remain youthful! As the largest shopping and entertainment destination in the Hunter with over 100 fashion stores, including over 30 that are exclusive to Charlestown Square, fashion shopping can be a daunting experience.

To make it enjoyable and rewarding, the fashion services available at Charlestown Square also include paid styling sessions starting from just $80 per hour where Natalie takes interested fashion shoppers to a range of stores to find their perfect look.

Bookings for all fashion services are essential and can be made online at www.charlestownsquare.com.au

Photo by Ale

xia Sinclair

Photo by

clair

Alexia Sin

Katie wears Wayne by Wayne Cooper Maxi Dress from Myer at Coco Cubano, Level 2 Food Terrace

STYLE YOUR LOOK at THE STYLE CENTRE WITH A FREE CONSULTATION

WHERE SMART GIRLS SHOP! Stockists of Desigual, Boo Radley, Bleu Blanc Rouge, Savage Culture, Smash, Threadz, Holmes & Fallon, Dolce Vita, Ana Alcazar, Darling, Honey & Beau, Funki Beat, Joe Browns, Jana... to name a few. Sizes 8 to 20.

163 Swan St, Morpeth. PH 4933 0455 Open 7 days from 10’ish until late | www.princessbazaar.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

STREET STYLE TWINSETS Alyce Cowell is the official stylist/blogger for Westfield.

Follow Alyce as she provides shopping tips, fashion trend how-tos, and styling advice #fashionobsessed

Twin-sets, co-ords, twosies… Whatever you call them, there’s no denying our obsession with this season’s cutest trend!

With so many to choose from, you can work them to suit your personal style – show off your quirky side with a graphic print, go modern with a tank and wide-leg pant, or be inspired by the ’70s with double denim.

The best part? You don’t always have to wear them together; unlike a dress or jumpsuit, the separates mean you can mix and match to create multiple outfits. Winning!

Alyce Cowell

Modern Styling... Go retro in new season styling with Sportsgirl's stripe co-ord cami. Get the "Modern" look by pairing it with their wide leg stripe pants (pictures right).

Jewellery essentials with Mimco’s

CATHRYN WILLS

By Alyce Cowell on behalf of Westfield Kotara for the #fashionobsessed

Cathryn Wills knows a thing or two about jewellery.

Starting her career more than a decade ago as a freelance product designer, she now holds the title of both Managing Director and Creative Director behind one of our favourite Australian accessory brands, Mimco.

We caught up with Cathryn (or CW as she’s affectionately known) and picked her brain about the basics of jewellery.

A: What items should every woman have in her jewellery box?

CW: A high choker elongates the neck and draws attention up toward the face, or alternatively pendant styles such as our Courageous Neck can be wrapped around twice and styled high on the neck.

A multitude of finer pieces are also key – and certainly easier for everyday wear – like layers of fine rings, a couple of different length chains and threadstyle earrings. Feature cuffs are another essential, and we’re loving wearing a pair of cuffs (one on each wrist) for a bold look.

A: Any top tips for taking your jewellery from day to night?

CW: The modern way to wear jewellery is to mix metals and experiment with layers. For night, your body should be a glorious spread of fine and sensual metal, adorned and decorated to be a conversation starter.

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"Being true to your own style is definitely on the rise. People are looking for ways to bring their own personality to their favourite accessory purchase."

Courageous Necklace Mimco Atomic Ear 3 Pack Mimco

A: What are your do's and don'ts for jewellery?

CW: The key with jewellery is to choose your area of focus. Don’t adopt a Christmas tree approach where you adorn every available surface – I recommend 1–2 items per area. I tend to be more of a wrist and earring person, whereas some women favour a feature necklace. I always think it’s important to experiment with pieces and get to a point where you feel comfortable with your look.

A: What jewellery trends are you loving at the moment?

CW: We are big fans of layering! Try layering whimsical lengths of fine chains and jewels to create a delicate and on-trend statement. Our collection of wristwear comes in a striking array of shapes, so you can also curate your own wrist gallery. Layer pieces with a man-style watch and a scattering of rings across the fingers. Decorate the ears with an ear pack, such as our Atomica 3 pack. The ear cuff can be worn back with your favourite studs, sleepers and clips.

Vigilante Ring Stack Mimco

Vigilante Cuff Mimco

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH Photo credit: Westfields

David Jones S/S’15

FASHION LAUNCH

By Alyce Cowell on behalf of Westfield Kotara for the #fashionobsessed

It’s one of the most important dates on the fashion calendar, where the who’s who of Sydney celebrate a new season at David Jones. August 9th was no exception, with Australia’s top bloggers, fashion editors, models, actors and VIP guests walking the red carpet before checking out the spring/summer collection, getting us all excited for the warmer months!

On the catwalk, David Jones ambassadors Montana Cox, Jessica Gomes and Jesinta Campbell wowed the crowd in the season’s hottest trends including clean summer whites, clashing graphic prints and a whole lot of ’70s-inspired paisley prints, bell sleeves and maxi lengths.

Best dressed? Actress Samara Weaving turned heads in a stunning emerald green Dion Lee gown (pictured right).

Makeup was relaxed and light, with light bronzing, subtle pink lips and big, natural brows. Earthy, block colours including burgundy, mustard and khaki gave us a sneak peek into the spring/summer colour palette.

Head-to-toe white is a key trend for yet another season, according to Bec and Bridge. The trick? Mix and match little white dresses, palazzo pants, boyfriend blazers, silky tanks, basic tees and maxi skirts for a luxe, layered look. Bring on Spring/Summer!

INDULGENCES BEAUTY THERAPY Shop 1/9 Kenrick Street, The Junction | PH (02) 4962 5022 www.indulgences.com.au | OPEN Monday - Saturday

The ORIGINAL Kokum Day Spa Beware of imitations...

We are the original and only Kokum Day Spa! Find us at our new home Unit 4, 7-9 Lambton Road, Broadmeadow PH 02 4961 3208 | OPEN Monday to Saturday | www.kokumdayspa.com.au

HOLLYWOOD EYE SPECIAL EYE MAKE OVER

includes eye brow wax, eye brow and eye lash tint and a beautiful eye mask for ONLY $40! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 23

circle your iColour

INTOUCH TRAVEL

[4962 1116 the junction] [4947 1116 warners bay]

TOUR AFRICA WITH ITRAVEL

Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

By Megan O'Sullivan Is Africa on your bucket list? We are excited to let you know about our amazing escorted tours to Africa in 2016. Our two tours have been personally designed to showcase the best of Southern Africa. See advertisement for details.

Meet our tour leaders...

Sue Rigby (Manager and Co-owner of itravel Warners Bay) A born and bred South African, Sue is very passionate about her homeland and enjoys sharing her knowledge with her clients. She has recently returned from escorting groups in October and May. What do you love about it? Africa has an addictive charm that nowhere else in the world can replicate- from the joyful locals, to stunning scenery and amazing wildlife.

Biggest surprise? I love how wildlife sightings are never the same from one trip to the next.

Unforgettable experience? When guests on my tours tell me that it’s the best holiday and most amazing experience they have ever had in their whole lives- to me that is just gold!

Simone Berryman (Senior Consultant at itravel The Junction) Simone is a highly experienced travel consultant who has travelled to many parts of the world. She loves Africa and looks forward to sharing the experience with you!

What do you love about it? Africa is such an exciting holiday destination.

The thrill of tracking animals on game drives and the excitement when you find a great sighting is second to none!

Biggest surprise? I knew I would love the wildlife sightings but the history and hearing what the people have been through was really fascinating.

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iTRAVEL WARNERS BAY

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Discover

SOUTHERN AFRICA Riding in the back of an open jeep, eyes searching for a glimpse of colour or movement in the landscape - the anticipation is pure exhilaration, be it your first game drive or your tenth.

The overwhelming sense of joy when your experienced trackers find a lion basking on a rock; a herd of elephants eating, tenderly pulling apart the vegetation; or that elusive leopard resting in a tree. The rollercoaster of emotions is only part of what makes Africa so fascinating and addictive.

Visiting Southern Africa is a journey of discovery. Every new day presents new experiences whether it be through wildlife, culture or history. There is so much to discover…

Discover curious but smiling faces. Be welcomed by the

locals, and stopped for an unexpected conversation.

Discover great wilderness areas, stunning mountain ranges, raging rivers, and endless savannah plains under a canopy of blue sky; the day then closes with myriad stunning colours in the sky at sunset. For an encore, bright stars twinkle in the blackest of skies, to a background orchestra of thrilling animal sounds, close and far away.

Discover cosmopolitan Cape Town, the oldest city in South Africa, nestled at the foot of the spectacular Table Mountain.

Discover a nation’s struggle for freedom whilst following the footsteps of Mandela. It will touch and inspire you.

Discover the infamous Kruger National Park, home to many of Africa's iconic safari species, including elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, rhino, buffalo, giraffe, hippo and zebra.

Discover

Zimbabwe’s magnificent Victoria Falls, thunderous and mighty and one of the Seven Natural Wonders Discover the Zambezi of the World.

River, alternately fast and slow as it traces its way through the continent.

Discover the Okavango Delta for astonishing game-viewing in floodplains and swamps.

Discover funky hotels, private game lodges, rustic chalets and luxurious tented camps with en-suite bathrooms.

Discover exquisite cuisine and attentive staff throughout. itravel The Junction and itravel Warners Bay, together with Swagman Africa, are offering you the ultimate opportunity to discover South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe on our fully escorted safaris in 2016.

We have two exclusive Africa tours departing next year. Sue Rigby, a born-and-bred South African will be escorting an extensive, luxury 24 day tour departing on 2nd May. Simone Berryman, an experienced and well-travelled consultant will escort a shorter, more adventurous 16-day tour during October. Both tours have been personally designed to showcase the best of what this region has to offer.

For details on these tours please contact Sue at itravel Warners Bay on 49471116 or Simone at itravel The Junction on 49621116. Book now to prepare for a journey like no other: discover Africa with itravel.

INTOUCH TRAVEL

China Growing Market for Fresh NSW Oysters

“NSW business Australia’s Oyster Coast has already seen great success in Hong Kong and Singapore, and we are proud to see this thriving local company take its produce to China,” Mr Ayres said.

Australia’s Oyster Coast encompasses 45 leading Australian oyster growers across eight estuaries south of Sydney, and produces the Sydney Rock Oyster, the rare Angasi ‘flat oyster’ “The company has developed a streamlined supply chain which enables the delivery of and the Pacific Oyster. oysters to customers within 30 hours of being harvested. This means that oysters, which were Its reputation has given rise to Australia’s growing in the estuaries of NSW one morning, Oyster Coast Trail, stretching 300 kilometres can be presented for dinner service at a along the NSW South Coast. Visitors to the region can taste the distinctive and exceptional restaurant in Asia the next day.” flavours of world-class oysters, learn about In Guangzhou, China’s seafood capital, Oyster oyster cultivation from oyster growers, discover Coast premium-grade fresh oysters have now fabulous wineries, charming boutique made their way on to the menus of high-end accommodation, delicious local produce and restaurants such as Chaofood and Mong Kok much more. Now the Asian market can taste the delights of these treats fresh from the farm Oyster Bar. This surge in demand has seen Oyster production contribute more than A$35 with a newly signed export agreement. million to the NSW economy annually.

During his first trade mission, Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the Luckily we don’t have to travel to taste this innovative NSW oyster exporters would expertly great Aussie grown morsel and the Oyster Trail's just another great reason to spend a weekend cater to China’s growing appetite for fresh, on the NSW South Coast! seasonal produce.

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INTOUCH MORPETH

Morpeth History, Discovery and Romance all in in one Place Morpeth is a town of full of history and discovery and the perfect place to spend a day or a romantic weekend away.

Renown for being a popular tourist spot, Morpeth is also one of the Hunter's premium boutique shopping destinations.

Just a short drive from Wine Country and only 37 km from Newcastle, this charming and historic village is idyllically situated along the banks of the Hunter River and offers all the simple pleasures of a country village along with the opportunity of stylish shopping and dining.

Here visitors can combine the old with the new whilst wandering through the stone-paved streets, taking in the interesting assortment of sandstone colonial buildings now occupied by more than 40 specialty stores, cafés and galleries featuring everything from local craft, antiques, unique home wears to striking artworks, distinctive fashion, amazing jewellery designs and affordable accessories. Morpeth is a destination you won't forget, and one that you are sure to revisit.

With its unique combination of history, heritage and beauty, this bustling river town is the ideal base to explore what the Hunter region has to offer and has become a destination of note for speciality and high quality retail shopping. With a surprising diversity of shops and stores for such a small village, it is little wonder that Morpeth is such a busy little town.

Catering for the most discerning of all retail explorers, shopping in Morpeth is an intimate and relaxed shopping experience and a shopaholics dream. Mingled in between the village’s cafés and restaurants you’ll find a treasure trove of retail magic, where there is truly something for everyone.

Whether you are looking for antiques, collectable books, unique jewellery, designer clothing and accessories, artworks, cheese or chocolate you’ll find the best of these and much more.

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After an active day of shopping, treat yourself to a riverside lunch with some local wine, or relax with a coffee and a locally made gourmet treat at one of the many tea-rooms, cafes or restaurants. Alternatively, relax in the park on the riverbank by the old wooden bridge, take in the beautiful scenery or sip an ale in the country pub.

Morpeth is a destination you won't forget, and one that you are sure to revisit... With a surprising diversity of shops and stores for such a small village, it is little wonder that Morpeth is such a busy little town.

Morpeth was founded in 1821 by Lieutenant Edward Close, who built his homestead five years later and developed the town into a thriving river port for ships distributing goods both nationally and worldwide. In its day, Morpeth was the largest inland seaport of the new Australian colony and commercial icons such as Brambles, Sims Metal, Arnotts and Soul’s Pharmacy were all born in this wonderful town.

By 1890, Morpeth's days as a river port were effectively over, but the town's comparative isolation meant that its historic shopfronts, wharves and even the hitching posts along the main street have survived intact. The same bakehouse where William Arnott and his brother David ran their business during the 1860's still exists today and remains in the family with its current owner Stephen Arnott, but under the name Morpeth Sourdough. Stephen is a 6th generation baker and the great, great, great grandson of William.

Today, Morpeth is National Trust-classified and a wide-awake town crammed with restaurants, shops and a calendar full of annual events such as the annual Christmas Nativity Exhibition at Morpeth Gallery held throughout November and December, the Festival of Two Palettes held at Morpeth Gallery in March and the Morpeth Fiery Food Festival held in April at Morpeth Gourmet Foods.

Don't miss...

This month Morpeth is once again holding their Art Bazaar at Closebourne, Cnr Morpeth Road and Tank Street, Morpeth on Sunday September 13th! The Hunter Arts Network's (HAN) fourth annual Art Bazaar will display and sell handmade, original, high quality work by over 100 local artisians (Hunter and surrounds).

Springfest - an evening of live and local music will be held at Morpeth School of Arts (High Street) from 4.30pm on Saturday September 26th. The event will feature an all night BBQ, and craft beer.

Tickets on sale now! Call 0404 144 003 or message the organisers on facebook (search Springfest)

INTOUCH NEWCASTLE WALKS

The Artists' City Walking Tour (Moderate Walk - 2hrs

30mins/ 5.1km)

Newcastle has nurtured, supported and inspired generations of artists and with this tour, you can explore the city through their eyes. Visit the galleries that have displayed and celebrated their work and view examples of the extraordinary public art that populates the Newcastle landscape.

This walking tour starts at Obelisk Park, one of the favourite drawing spots of Newcastle's most celebrated adopted artist, Margaret Olley. Margaret fell in love with Newcastle after being invited to visit by local gallery owner Anne Von Bertouch in the early 1960’s. She found the architecture, landscape and the sounds of industry that formed the city's heartbeat inspiring.

SELFGUIDED

known as the Commandants Bath, the pool was cut by hand into the rock platform by convicts. While its completion date is not known, it was in use when the Commandant left the settlement in 1823. It remains a favourite swimming spot to this day (maybe time to stop for a dip before proceeding!)

The tour ends at Newcastle Museum, the home of incredible objects and exhibitions that celebrate the industrial and convict heritage of the region.

Visit Foundation Seed, which is the tallest piece of public art in Newcastle, standing 14 metres high. It was created by John Turier - an artist, musician and qualified plumber who has lived in Newcastle since 1975.

Along the way you will also learn about William Dobell, one of Australia's most celebrated painters, who grew up and first began sketching in Cooks Hill. His skill and fascination with drawing led him to be apprenticed to a local architecture firm after he left school. Dobell left a physical mark on the Newcastle landscape during his early architectural career, designing several buildings around Newcastle.

The tour concludes at Newcastle Art Gallery, home to a collection of more than 6,100 works of art that belong to the people of Newcastle.

Walking Tours take you behind the scenes of the City

1hr 30mins/ 2.2km)

A sense of adventure, a bit of leisure time and a comfy pair of walking shoes… that's all you need to discover or rediscover Newcastle! Five self-guided walking tours have been created for you to enjoy and experience Newcastle focusing on Art, Convict and Industry, War in Newcastle, The Shoreline and Newcastle Architecture.

This walking tour begins at City Hall, which has been at the centre of Newcastle cultural and political life since it was completed in 1929. It ends at the Civic Theatre, Newcastle's premier live theatre venue and one of the last significant remaining examples of picture palace architecture in the state.

Newcastle Architecture Walking Tour (Easy Walk -

The architecture of Newcastle is defined by a rich diversity of styles that reflect the city's prosperity and growth throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. Explore buildings that have acted as cultural, political and economic icons for the people of Newcastle. Discover the works by architects that are not just of local, but national and international significance.

Newcastle at War Walking Tour (Moderate Walk -

2.5hrs/ 4.4km)

Generations of Novocastrians experienced the impact of war on their lives and their city. Explore Newcastle through the conflicts that have shaped its landscape and character. Meet locals that left Newcastle to participate in some of the most devastating wars in history. You'll walk in their footsteps, and visit places dedicated to their memory.

This walking tour begins at Fort Scratchley, the only coastal fortification in Australia to return fire on an enemy vessel during World War Two. It ends at the Newcastle War Memorial Cultural Centre (Newcastle Region Library); a place where locals gather not just to remember and reflect, but to learn, research and engage with art and culture.

You may choose to extend your journey to take in the magnificent Memorial Walk opened April 2015, the 100 year anniversary of the ANZAC landing on the Gallipoli peninsula.

This walk commemorates those from Newcastle and the Hunter region who enlisted for service in WWI.

The Shoreline Walking Tour (Heavy Walk - 3hr/ 3.2km) With its spectacular harbour and coastline, the Pacific Ocean has always played an important part in Novocastrian’s work and leisure.

Explore the city through its relationship with the shoreline. Visit places that once formed a crucial part of Newcastle’s working harbour and maritime culture. Enjoy the city’s spectacular coastline and discover places that Novocastrians have been visiting for generations to swim, relax and play.

Each of the self-guided walking tours includes maps and audio that take you behind the scenes of our City, pointing out some of its lesser known but fascinating treasures.

Convict and Industry Walking Tour (Moderate Walk -

This walking tour begins on the Newcastle Foreshore, at the viewing spot for Destiny, a sculpture that commemorates Newcastle’s role as a commercial port. It concludes at the Newcastle Memorial Walk, a spectacular walk that offers 360-degree views of the city and its coastline.

2hrs 45mins/ 5km)

Much of the modern Newcastle landscape has been shaped by the hands of convicts and industry. Explore the city's early years as a convict settlement. Visit remnants of the great industrial enterprises that once defined the city. Discover amazing engineering feats that allowed the city and its people to prosper.

This walking tour starts at the Convict Lumber Yard, one of the most significant archaeological sites of convict industry in Australia. From 1804 to 1822, Newcastle was a penal settlement established for the punishment of secondary offenders from Sydney. Convicts were employed in the coal, timber and lime-burning industries. This was the location of Newcastle's Lumber Yard and represents one of the earliest sites of convict industry in Australia.

The tour also takes in Newcastle’s iconic Bogey Hole, which was another lasting project produced by convict labour. Located at the base of Shepherds Hill, construction began in 1819 by order of Commandant Morisset for his personal use. Formerly

HOW TO COMPLETE YOUR SELF-GUIDED TOUR

ONLINE Visit www.visitnewcastle.com.au/newcastlewalking-tours. Choose the tour that most interests you (or the one you are about to embark on) and click to view additional information including downloadable map and brochure and the audio for each of the stops on the way (Don’t forget to bring your earphones!).

PRINTED MAPS/BROCHURES Free printed walking tour maps are also available at the Newcastle Museum or the Visitor Information Centre located at the Maritime Centre both located in the Honeysuckle precinct. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 27

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NEWCASTLE

Artistic. Charming. Cheeky. The Lucky promises to win the hearts of all locals and visitors of Newcastle.

Staying true to its grandeur history dating back to the 1800’s, The Lucky Hotel underwent major renovations in 2014 to restore the original façade and bring the famous hotel back to life.

Situated in the heart of Newcastle, the hotel features a central bar, alfresco dining, internal courtyard, gaming area, a traditional American barbecue restaurant and 30 boutique hotel rooms.

Contrasted against a trendy new fit out of elegant modern designs and features, the family owned and operated hotel offers a luminous mix of old and new.

OPENING HOURS | Monday & Tuesday 11:00am – 11:00pm Wednesday & Thursday 11:00am – 12:00am | Friday 11:00am – 1:00am Saturday 8:00am – 1:00am | Sunday 8:00am – 10:00pm

ADDRESS 237 Hunter Street, Newcastle OPEN 7 days RESTAURANT 7 Days Lunch & Dinner, Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday PH (02) 4925 8888 W www.theluckyhotel.com.au IMAGES: Ben Howland

The Impossible Market at Foodie Hotspot The Impossible Market is a unique and dynamic shopping experience that combines all the elements of a great night out. Taking up residence in the industrial chic West End hotspot The Edwards, the first market night will kick off from 5pm on Sunday 13th of September and continue on the second Sunday of each month.

With a focus on showcasing those who have taken a step towards an unknown destination and ended up achieving what they once thought was impossible, the launch event will feature twenty hand-picked creative makers along with live music, a dedicated Market Night food and cocktail menu, and a black and white photo booth with interactive props.

An ever-changing line-up of pop-up shops will keep the experience fresh and go handin-hand with monthly themes such as the ‘Spring Market’ in October, with florals, spring scents and pastel shades; the ‘Movember Market’, which will showcase earthy and eco wood, leather, metal and natural luxuries; and December’s ‘Christmas Market’ that will likely leave you wanting to keep the stocking fillers for yourself.

We Reserve the right to pleasure your palates...

Reserve Wine Bar is Newcastle’s first home of wine.

An emporium devoted to the grape in all its guises. We believe wine should be entertaining not intimidating. Fun, not fraught with indecision.

UK import, Rebecca Stern, is the driving force behind the Market Night. “The Impossible is a culmination of my passions, strengths and love for the city I’ve called home for the last four years. After arriving in Newcastle

Her own business has been a constant step away from the known and into often surprising and unexpected places. She has watched with admiration as those around her take those scary leaps too. “It’s about taking one step at a time without being sure of the destination and then looking back and realising that you have indeed already done what you once thought was impossible.

Small and creative business is all about being braver than you thought you could be, taking risks, achieving more than you imagined you could, in ways you often could not have predicted.”

The mainstay of The Impossible is a mix of beautifully designed, original, well made, locally produced, earth friendly and passion instilled products. The venue plays a starring role and is somewhat of an impossible dreamcome-true itself. The Edwards is raw and industrial, classy but laid back, hip and on trend but always warm and inviting. It is the love child of owners Chris Joannou and Chris Johnston, who have determinedly dedicated themselves to creating a place that does justice to the vibrant new energy Newcastle is pulsing with.

The first market will be held at The Edwards on Sunday 13 September from 5PM - 9PM.

Join winemaker Adam Marks from Bress Wines in Bendigo, Victoria at Reserve Wine Bar for a night of sensational wine and food.

Reserve will be pouring five wines matched to a four course meal with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. The dinner will be held on September 17th and of course bookings are essential.

Voted ‘Australia’s Best Small Bar’ by Restaurant and Catering 2014 and have the only Three Glass rating in NSW outside of Sydney as rated by Gourmet Traveller Wine Magazine.

Express lunch Tuesday to Friday - just $15 eat in or takeaway (check Facebook or Instagram for details).

Over 300 wines including 24 by the glass.

An always changing shared menu using fresh seasonal produce.

ADDRESS 102 Hunter Street, Newcastle OPEN Tuesday 12pm - 3pm, Wednesday to Friday 12pm - Close, Saturday 3pm - Close PH (02) 4929 3393 W www.reservewinebar.com.au

and starting my business House of Bec, I discovered a deep community of makers, designers, artists and creatives who inspired me at every opportunity,” she said.

Bress Wine Dinner at Reserve

Cost is only $110pp.

Visit www.reservewinebar.com.au for bookings and bring your palette for an evening of pure bliss! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 29

NEWCASTLE

Inner City Winemakers is a totally unique cellar door and winery situated within walking distance of Newcastle’s CBD and busy working harbour.

Locals and visitors alike are welcome to call in and sample our range of traditionally made wines. All staff are involved in the entire wine making process all the way from choosing varieties and creating styles, to the label design - so we are all very keen and enthusiastic to show off what we offer.

All our grapes are sourced from a number of New South Wales wine regions.

This enables us to produce an exciting and diverse range of wines, and we usually have a wine to suit every taste.

We also hold regular art exhibitions promoting local artists.

ADDRESS 28 Church Street, Wickham OPEN Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm PH (02) 4962 3545 W www.innercitywinemakers.com.au

Love Tree Café

Enjoy quality wines and craft beers from around Australia with your meal, from our bar.

Love Tree Cafe is somewhere you can escape and enjoy some time for yourself, with friends, your family or that special someone; Human or furry! A great cafe and restaurant to enjoy a dinner in Hamilton.

Our food is fresh, full of flavour and created with passion and pride. Our menu includes gluten free and vegan options and we will try our best to meet any dietary requirements you may have.

Our philosophy is for you to have a dining experience that will entice you to come back and be a regular part of the Love Tree Cafe family.

Love Tree Cafe wants you to have the best, so our coffee is from the exciting and delicious Fish River Roasters in the O’Connell Valley NSW. At Fish River Roasters they roast in small batches so they can deliver to us fresh and fast. Their philosophy is simple: source the best coffee beans and roast each variety to bring out their best flavours and aroma.

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ADDRESS Shop 5, 79 Beaumont Street, Hamilton OPEN 8am - 4pm Breakfast and Lunch 7 days Dinner 5pm til late Tuesday to Saturday PH (02) 4940 0006 W www.lovetreecafe.com.au 30 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

NEWCASTLE Plenty of time to meet and eat with a $20 express lunch!

Ideal for corporate or casual dInIng

{ More events and promotions on Facebook FB.com/RusticaNewcastle }

Good food, good drinks, good chat.

Proving that great things really do come in small packages, this quirky harbour-side small bar answers all the questions you never had time to ask.

Choice selections of beers, wines and bespoke cocktails matched with an amazing array of bar-style food.

Retro relaxation vibes are plentiful.

LUNCH Thursday to Sunday ~ DINNER Monday to Saturday 2/1 King Street, Newcastle NSW 2300 ~ 02 4929 3333 eat@rustica.com.au ~ www.rustica.com.au

ADDRESS The Boardwalk, Honeysuckle OPEN Wednesday to Sunday 12 noon till late PH (02) 49261799 W www.moneypenny.net.au

One Tree Coffee Co. Where it’s all about the Coffee!

As you walk along level 2 in Charlestown Square, you will soon come across this modern, smartly designed, compact espresso bar offering a selection of the best singleorigin coffees from around the world and brewed using a combination of high tech equipment and old school technique.

This tiny store is all about the coffee and is a haven for coffee lovers and those who love a thick, velvety hot chocolate or want a bite to eat. It’s a place where you can pause and relax for a while as you step away from the hectic rush of surrounding shoppers.

One Tree Café has also become a popular coffee destination for the neighbouring retailers, with a regular line-up of loyal customers who understand a quality approach to café service.

One Tree Business Manager Robert Greer joined One Tree Coffee just over 2 months ago after working as head barista at Rolador and also as head barista and roaster at Peaberry’s New Lambton.

Robert has brought a revitalised ethos to the business. He loves his job and is passionate about coffee and instills that same appreciation for coffee and excellence in service in the staff at the Charlestown cafe.

‘‘We are known for our artisan-style espresso and it’s about loving what you do and respect for the coffee that you are serving up. It’s also about appreciating and understanding how the coffee is made and where the beans were grown,’’ Greer said.

One Tree Coffee Co. uses the Cafe Verde house blend from Sydney’s Morgan’s Coffee Roasters, a blend of four beans from Nicaragua, Colombia, Costa Rica and Brazil.

The One Tree Coffee menu has also undergone a change under Greer’s leadership and now includes a selection of new pastries fresh from the bakers oven, toasted sandwiches made using Morpeth sourdough, chocolate croissants and the CRUFFIN! What is a Cruffin? Well you will just have to ask them! While you are there try the blackened chicken, smoked cheddar, corn, jalapeño, ranch dressing toasted sandwich – truly amazing!

One Tree Coffee is a family owned and run business that uses Morgans Coffee Roasters verde blend to deliver artisan style espresso with a modern flair.

We also showcase single origins from around the world which will excite the palate and leave you wanting more.

And if coffee is not your jam, come in and have a melted hot chocolate. We blend Zokoko artisan chocolate and Lindt milk chocolate together to create the most amazing and unique hot chocolate experience you’ll ever have.

ADDRESS K207, Level 2 Charlestown Square, Pearson St, Charlestown OPEN Monday to Saturday 8am - 5pm and Sunday 9am - 4pm PH (02) 4943 8800 W www.onetreecoffee.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31

NEWCASTLE Gundog Estate, Hope and Tower Estate, Drayton’s Family Wines, Vinden Estate Wines, Eagles Rest Wines and Savannah Estate featured in the Hunter Valley section. Gundog Estate's perfectly pink Rosé was sweet and flavourful with aromas of strawberry and raspberry. One of the highlights of the Hunter Valley wine producers was Savannah Estate. The estate’s rich, sweet, dark refined Liqueur Muscat was an absolute favourite, proving to be exceedingly popular at this year’s show along with their Port.

Savannah Estate is a unique boutique winery named after Savannah Peterson, the youngest granddaughter of renowned wine makers; the Peterson family. Nestled along Mount View Road in the Hunter Valley’s wine region, Savannah Estate often struggle to keep up with the growing popularity of their products.

Joe Keat, a passionate employee of the estate said that they have quite a small production.

"We focus on the quality rather than the quantity."

Thousands UN-WINE-D at a Foodie Paradise WORDS + IMAGE: Jessica Rouse At 10am on a Saturday morning, while the rest of the world were whiling away their time sleeping, shopping and walking the dog, thousands of enthusiastic food lovers piled into the Dome of Sydney Olympic Park to experience food and wine from the best producers in the country.

There were more than 200 food and wine stalls, produce from the beautiful Barossa Valley all the way up to the fruitful Hunter Valley, an alley full of the best cheese, and a grazing garden of street food from the best food trucks around. It was all topped off with a selection of the best celebrity chef’s demonstrating their talents in the Good Food Theatre: the foodie’s paradise.

Coconut Ice Cream with Sago and Sesame Caramel. The cooking demonstrations aren’t merely about the thrill of watching a celebrity cook. There is always something to learn.

Gary’s fresh, Indian inspired chicken salad was filled with an abundance of herbs, perfectly poached chicken, kaffir lime leaves and whimsical banana flowers, drenched in a sweet dressing. After overheating pans to the extreme, the main dish Gary put together was a bright seafood curry with aromatic turmeric, okra and prawns. Billie, of course, did most of the work with Gary telling her that when she thought she had put in enough oil, to add even more!

The food looked amazing and must have tasted spectacular as Rolling in on Friday 7th August, the Good Food and Wine Show those at the Lifestyle Food Chef’s Table dug in, with Irish host and acclaimed chef Alistair McLeod nibbling away in the corner is always guaranteed to pull a huge crowd, and that it did. ,in between his hosting responsibilities.

However “huge” was an understatement.

Thousands of people turned out on Saturday to soak up the atmosphere of great food, wine and foodie goodness. One of the best pieces of advice to give someone going to the show is to start the day with a plan. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the multitude of choices, people and stalls. A serious foodie knows the chefs they want to see, where they will be at what time, and what the main food and wine stops are.

Firstly, in the Good Food Theatre, English born Gary Mehigan wowed the audience with his modern Indian inspired cuisine with the help of the latest in the Masterchef winner alumni, Billie McKay. Mehigan’s love of food is severely underestimated. He absolutely loves his food. Throughout the demonstration, he spooned down mouthfuls of sago soaked in coconut milk while devising plans to mix vodka with his papaya puree and sit back with a long straw, rather than create the intended Papaya and 32 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Savannah Estate is the youngest and smallest of the Peterson family estates which include wineries in the Hunter Valley, Mudgee and Armidale. The winery is 12 years old with the wine making process headed by Michael Hudson. The family comradery among the Peterson wineries is evident as Joe says Michael has all of the support of the Peterson family if he ever needs guidance. However, he said “he’s [Michael] doing a damn good job by himself”.

Bimbadgen Estate, First Creek Hunter Valley, Peterson House and Ascella Pure Wines also featured at the show. Alongside the array of wine makers, there were plenty of Hunter Valley food producers to compliment the sweet, tart and delicious wines.

Pukara Estate’s range of oils, vinegars and condiments are exceedingly popular. Located just outside of Denman in the Hunter, the 200-acre property uses a variety of olive trees from Italian Frantoio to Spanish Picual. Pukara has on-site production facilities ensuring that the freshest products are produced season after season.

The combination of flavours Pukara Estate use are as delicious as they are unpredictable. Vanilla and Cinnamon, Guava and Fig Balsamic Vinegars, and a stand out Pomegranate Balsamic Vinegar which was sweet, tart and sour all at the same time.

For many, the day wouldn’t be complete without running out of the theatre and straight to the book signing table to meet the inspiring chefs.

Hunter Belle Cheese were one of many cheese producers in Cheese Alley. The aptly named Camembelle was delightfully creamy and their popularity was unquestionable as customers lined up saying there was no need to taste as they knew exactly what they were after.

It is a refreshing feeling to realise that the chefs you watch on television and read about are even more approachable and friendly than you expect. Gary Mehigan is equally as bubbly and funny in person and Billie McKay is even lovelier. One after the other, aspiring home cooks and chefs lined up and walked away with an autographed cookbook and a memorable moment with the writer himself.

The show is all about tasting the best of the best. Smoked Shaw River Buffalo Cheese, Tamar Valley Truffles Sugo, warm cheese and onion ciabatta loaf from Nonna’s Bakehouse, Brookfarm’s tasty toasted muesli, porridge, Walkabout mix ranges and muesli bars which all combine the tastiest macadamias with a variety of exotic dried fruits, seeds and other delicious nuts.

A large number of the stalls at the show are products from the Hunter Valley. The wine in particular produced in the Hunter Valley is renowned for its quality and the wine makers their expertise. It made perfect sense that at this year’s show there was a section dedicated to wine produced in the Hunter Valley.

After eating and drinking the day away, it is hard not to leave the Good Food and Wine Show both satisfied and tired.

Satisfied that you successfully tasted as much as you could, and tired from the weight of all the delicious goodies you have to carry back to your car before heading home and eating all of the spoils.

LAKE MACQUARIE

of the Best Craft Beer Stores The Australian beer landscape continues to evolve and today the amber fluid has beer lovers all over the world experimenting with new, innovative and interesting varieties from diverse places and even matching them to food.

For those of us living in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, we have had it pretty good for quite some time with Warners at the Bay Bottle-shop having one of the biggest collections of beer anywhere in Australia and recognised for being the Best Craft Beer store in New South Wales. In 2011 it was also named "Best Craft Beer store in Australia" by Beer & Brewer Magazine.

More than 1,000 boutique beers and around 90 ciders can be found in its fridges and on its shelves, from the most mainstream of local offerings to the most obscure imports from

Located at beautiful Warners Bay, Mama Mex is the perfect blend of Italian and Mexican dining!

The fun and friendly atmosphere and views of the glorious lake make for a relaxing lunch by the bay, a romantic dinner or special family night out.

The superb food and fully licensed bar compliment both the indoor and al fresco dining experience.

more than 50 countries. They also boast one of the most comprehensive wine selections from all over Australia and some the world’s best grape growing regions.

It's not just bottles of beer on offer either, as they now also have a purpose built beer dispensing system offering eight different draught beers to choose from. The beer is poured into a 2lt “Growler” or a 1lt “Squealer” for the consumer to take home and then return to pick out a new one to try. The dispenser has been a hit amongst beer geeks and regular drinkers alike and has been doing a roaring trade since going into operation four years ago.

Another way to try some new beers is to attend their annual Beer Festival which is held on the last Sunday of November each year – attracting brewers and punters from across NSW and also further afield. This year will be their 9th event and tickets sell out well in advance each year, so make sure you get your tickets early to avoid missing out.

Warners at the Bay Bottle-shop is part of the wider Warners at the Bay operation, a familyowned business that also features a motel, bistro and live entertainment venue. For more information visit www.warnersatthebay.com.au

Best of all… if you’re running short of time everything on the sit-down menu is available for takeaway so you can have that Mama Mex experience at home!

So pop in and see us or place an order over the phone.

Bookings are recommended to ensure you don’t miss out.

ADDRESS 75 King Street, Warners Bay OPEN Dinner Wednesday to Sunday until 9pm, Lunch Friday to Sunday from 11.30am PH (02) 4948 9963 W www.mamamexrestaurant.com.au

MEGA MEAL DEALS $1 0

LUNCH

MON - THUR

$1 4

Winter Warmers

Tempura Fish and Chips Chicken Breast Schnitzel Vegetarian Nachos Pot Pie of the day Steak Sandwich Chef’s Salad Beef Nachos

Oystermania

DINNER

MON - THUR

Meal Deals

Rump Steak Pot Pie of the day Fish and Chips Chicken Schnitzel Pasta of the day

6838

Best

Welcome to Mama Mex!

$10 a dozen Natural $13 a dozen Kilpatrick *In conjunction with a lunch main meal purchase

Ph 4956 6066 /// Hillsborough Rd Warners Bay www.warnersatthebay.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

HUNTER VALLEY

HUNTER VALLEY WINE COUNTRY A SMORGASBORD OF WINE & FOOD

With a tradition of viticulture stretching back more than 180 years and celebrated as Australia’s primary wine and food destination, the Hunter Valley attracts food and wine lovers from all over the world and treats them to a fascinating journey into the world of great wine and wonderful food.

The rich soils of the Hunter Valley inspire growers to produce a wide range of premium wines and fresh produce - providing visitors to the Hunter Valley with more choice and diversity than any other wine region in Australia.

Not only is the Hunter Valley Australia’s oldest and best known wine region, but it is a major wine producing area gaining

international recognition for its winemakers and the quality and distinct regional characteristics of its premium wines which are equal to the best in the world - in particular Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz.

The wine sector is also recognised for producing a full range of wine varietals – one to match every meal!

The Hunter Valley is Newcastle’s own wine region and it is now just 35 minutes away.

So stay awhile - a day or maybe two, and choose from a diversity of restaurants spread throughout the region, go on a wine tour, attend a wine tasting class or self-drive using the popular Wine & Dine Hunter Valley guide and trail maps.

Just two of our tidings...

Grab one before they fly away!

OPEN 7 DAYS PH (02) 4930 7113 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2321 • www.gartelmann.com.au 34 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY

Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating our 30th Vintage

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NSW Wine of the Year 2014 Two Trophies - 2014 Australian Boutique Wine Show Two Trophies - 2014 Hunter Valley Wine Show Four Trophies - 2014 Sydney Royal Wine Show Trophy - Best Semillon in 2013 & 2014 Sydney International Wine Competition Trophy - Best Semillon 2012 & 2013 London International Wine Challenge

& Olive Grove

More than a vineyard, Adina is a very popular destination for visitors to the Hunter Valley. With easy access from Sydney and Newcastle via the M15 Hunter Expressway, Adina has it all — fantastic wines, beautiful olive and providore products, 4 + star accommodation, Emerson’s restaurant and Reflections Day Spa.

S HO W INE

Experience our ultra-premium range of Estate grown single vineyard wines at our Boutique Cellar Door.

Stop by the cellar door and taste our award-winning wines in the company of our friendly and knowledgeable staff. You can also sample and buy a wide range of olive providore products.

Enjoy a welcoming coffee with magnificent views over the vineyard. And if you are planning an overnight stay we cater for couples and families in great comfort.

We have everything you need to enjoy a great stay.

We look forward to hosting you when next you visit.

McLEISH ESTATE

McLeish Estate Wines 462 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin PH (02) 4998 7754 www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au

ADDRESS 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale OPEN Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm PH (02) 4930 7473 W www.adinavineyard.com.au

Fine Wine & Takeaway from Cooks Hill Surf Club at this years' BUDFEST After the overwhelming success of last year’s event, the Budfest at Briar Festival is back for its second year, from 11am on Saturday 19th September. The festival is an opportunity to celebrate budburst and to highlight that enjoying wine is about simple pleasures.

It was Winemaker Gwyn Olsen’s commitment to making wines more accessible and a love of takeaway food that inspired the Budfest at Briar Festival.

Gwyn is a firm believer that “good wine doesn’t always need candles, white tablecloths and Wagyu beef, but can be equally enjoyable with your favourite takeaway”. Often it is assumed that fine wines should only be enjoyed at formal occasions or by true wine connoisseurs.

Winemaker Gwyn Olsen wants to remove the stigma associated with drinking wines in a relaxed environment and let you know that it is entirely acceptable! Budfest at Briar will demonstrate that wine is about experience and can be just as memorable over a quick takeaway meal as with a dish prepared by a fine dining establishment.

“Some of my best wine memories are heading to the beach with a bottle of Semillon, some fish ‘n’ chips and a great sunset,” said Gwyn.

Budfest at Briar sees Ben and Harry’s from the Cooks Hill Surf Club prepare a selection of takeaway favourites, such as yellow chicken curry, chilli dogs and, of course, a cone of chips for the kids!

So, get your friends together for a relaxed afternoon of great music, some takeaway favourites and, of course, a glass or two of Briar Ridge’s finest.

Visit www.briarridge.com.au for more information and of course - check out the Briar Ridge Shiraz from this month's TOP 5 while you're there! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 35

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 26th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quantities of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades.

With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, Fortified and Dessert styles on tasting, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter.

• • • •

All wines are made in our onsite winery Winery tastings available for larger groups – bookings essential!

Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome

When visiting Mistletoe be sure to take time to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door.

With three generations now actively engaged in the day to day operation of Mistletoe, it is truly a unique family winery.

Come up and meet the Mistletoe Girls who will make your visit all the more special.

Mistletoe is now just 35 minutes form Newcastle – take the Hunter Expressway M15 which becomes the A15 (New England Highway) at Branxton and then take the Hermitage Road exit.

Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320

PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 36 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au E office@mistletoewines.com.au | W www.mistletoewines.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY

Surprisingly, Michal's decision to become a chef came later in life. One night, while enrolled at University and working part time behind the bar at a wood fired pizza restaurant, Michal was asked to assist with food preparation in the kitchen. Despite his initial misgivings, Michal discovered that he loved the camaraderie and energy that came with the fast paced and busy kitchen.

Needless to say Michal deferred his studies and never worked outside a kitchen again.

Michal Blank Head

Chef at Goldfish

Driven and ambitious, Polish-born Michal loves the adrenaline rush that comes with the chaos and demands of a busy kitchen.

Since accepting the role of setting up the food operations at Goldfish in 2012, Michal has established Goldfish at the Roche Estate complex in Pokolbin as a highly regarded dining venue, serving an exceptionally high standard of food and winning Best Small Bar award at the Restaurant and Catering Awards in 2013.

Michal's early passion for good food and cooking was very much influenced by his grandmother who was an inspirational cook throughout his childhood. Due to the Eastern European tradition of big family Sunday lunches, he has fond memories of picking fruit and vegetables and helping his grandmother in the kitchen.

For the next few years, Michal was exposed to a wide variety of cooking techniques and culinary influences from all around the world while he worked alongside respected chefs such as Steven Lloyd from Pier 26 in Sydney’s Darling Harbour and Serge Dansereau at the iconic Bather’s Pavilion at Balmoral Beach.

In 2005 Michal joined one of Manly’s highend restaurants - Whitewater as a Sous Chef before leaving to gain valuable experience at the hugely successful Hugo’s Manly working with inspirational chef Massimo Mele.

Now 3 years after arriving in the Hunter and establishing the new culinary direction for Goldfish, Michal has designed menus that are predominately Italian and French influenced, with great pizzas and a blend of refined Mediterranean cuisine. The decor has a 1920's old New York theme - open 7 days a week and perfect for long lazy lunches or dinners. Food is available till closing. (which is late!).

In 2011 the 42 hectare property on Oakey Creek Road, by then renamed Golden Grape, was purchased by its current owners who went about restoring the building to its original glory by rebuilding and renovating the original cellar door and restaurant now known as Twine Restaurant.

For those interested in winemaking history, the cellar door also boasts a wine museum that features, among other interesting examples of old winemaking tools, the oldest wine press on the continent.

RETURNING to Former Glory

The estate has almost 30 hectares of lowyielding vineyards, including Shiraz, Merlot, Chardonnay, Verdelho and Muscat. The property also has some dry-grown 95-year-old shiraz vines that only produce an average of 0.75 tonnes of fruit each vintage. Plantings were extended in 2014 with Durif, Malbec and Roussanne.

The Wynwood Estate wine range is comprehensive – with wines to suit all tastes While Wynwood Estate may be one of the and preferences. In particular, the Grey Gum Hunter Valley’s newest wine labels, it has some range of wines can be enjoyed on their own or of the oldest vineyards in the Hunter Valley with a range of different food styles. These are and a colourful history that dates back to the light, zesty, fruity and sparkling styles all fresh 1800's, when it was first settled by George and easy to drink.

Wills and known as Clayton Winery.

Once also part of Saxonvale Vineyards, the property has played a significant role in the history of Pokolbin and the Hunter Valley and developed a reputation for producing some of the regions finest wines.

The cellar door and surrounds create a lovely ambience in which to taste the wines and enjoy one of the valley’s best views.

Wynwood Estate is a must visit for any trip to the Hunter Valley.

A great location for events and group bookings.

Recreating History

GROUP BOOKINGS - Are you looking for somewhere to have a get together? Thinking about your Christmas party, hens party or birthday party? We can cater for groups from 10 to 400 people.

Wynwood Estate is one of the newest boutique wine brands with some of the oldest and most renowned vineyards, producing traditional, premium quality wines from the grand old vines.

CONCERT SEASON - A great place to meet for a drink and a bite to eat before heading to a concert across the road at Hope Estate. If you have tickets to any concerts at Roche Estate, a pre-concert dinner booking at Goldfish or our VIP package will get the night off to a great start!

Contact functions@thegoldfish.com.au for any enquiries or to join our mailing list.

KITCHEN OPENING HOURS Every day for lunch and dinner with a limited after hours menu in between, except Saturday where we have our full menu available from midday to 9:30pm. Late night pizzas available until 11pm on Friday night and midnight on Saturday.

ADDRESS Tempus Two Winery, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Hunter Valley OPEN 7 days, Midday to Late RESTAURANT 7 days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7688 W www.thegoldfish.com.au

Wynwood Estate offers a personalised and relaxing wine tasting experience like no other, let our very experienced staff guide through our extensive range, from easy drinking styles through to Award winning Hunter Classics.

Our onsite restaurant “Twine Restaurant” is one of the Hunter Valley’s gems with the Barrel Room seating 120 for Functions and weddings and the wonderful old Wine Making Museum to add a touch of history to any occasion.

Specialising in corporate and private wine tastings, you really should plan your Hunter day trip around a visit to Wynwood Estate.

SPECIAL OFFER – Book 24 hours in advance to received a FREE Premium Wine & Cheese Tasting for 2 people, valued at $40. (Excludes bus tours)

ADDRESS 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days 10am - 5pm RESTAURANT Lunch 7 days, Dinner Friday, Saturday and Sunday PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au W www.wynwoodestate.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37

HUNTER VALLEY

created from grapes grown on their Pokolbin Estate and Belebula Vineyards.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

With a freakish competition record, Pokolbin Estate have a reputation for producing outstanding wines - particularly with their Riesling, Semillon and Shiraz. They have also had a great deal of success with their three Mediterranean style red wines - the premium Spanish variety Tempranillo and the Italian varieties that include Nebbiolo and Sangiovese. All three varieties are grown on their Belebula Vineyard.

POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD

Mediterranean Flavours at Pokolbin Estate Great wines are being made on the sun-kissed isles of southern Europe and wine lovers and experts alike are fast discovering just how fantastic wines from countries like Italy and Spain truly are.

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

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

Nine out of ten people like chocolate.

The tenth is lying.

- Graffiti scrawled on a wall Chocolate is a joy to give and a joy to receive and each of us has an intensely personal history with this sweetest of substances which has so many things wrapped up in it - romantic memories, love, childhood, happiness and that feeling of being rewarded. Nothing can stimulate the senses and create a sense of euphoria as effectively as chocolate.

Universally adored, chocolate is one of life's perfect indulgences and in certain regions and parts of the world, chocolate has also proved to be a big tourist drawcard. In the Hunter Valley, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is the sweetest and most addictive attraction around.

Established in the Hunter Valley more than 15 years ago, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. It's so popular that they can be found at three convenient locations in Pokolbin, where you can taste a fantastic range of fine, unique handmade chocolate products and a large variety of freshly made fudge.

38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

The most recently opened outlet is known as ''Twenty-3-Twenty'' on Broke Road in Pokolbin and features a large viewing window where the Chocolatiers and Fudge-makers can be observed busily making the range of chocolate and fudge for all three outlets.

For that unique taste of the Mediterranean then Pokolbin Estate is just the place to go to.

Located on McDonalds Rd in Pokolbin, Pokolbin Estate Vineyard is one of the smallest boutique estates in the Hunter Valley where their exclusive wines are hand-made and

The Belebula Tempranillo - a grape that is native to northern Spain, is medium bodied, deep burgundy in colour with dry soft red berry and plum fruit driven flavours on the palate.

Sangiovese is perhaps Italy’s best known grape variety and the popular Belebula Sangiovese does not disappoint. This is an elegant, fruit driven style of wine that has a plethora of berry fruit and a touch of pepper and spice.

The third wine making up the trio is the tantalising and intensely aromatic Nebbiolo who's very name is evocative of its home among the misty foothills of the western Alps.

The Belebula Nebbiolo is light to medium brick red in colour with an aroma of tar and rose petals. Its savoury and aromatic characters are unusual and can be compared to Pinot Noir.

All three wines are available at their 1889 circa sandstone cellar door in Pokolbin.

Indulge with

Hunter Valley

Chocolate

At the Hunter Valley Gardens outlet, chocolate lovers can also take a break from browsing over the seemingly endless choice and relax with a mug of coffee.

Belgian chocolate has always been the indulgence of the rich, the food for lovers and the favourite of the masses. Firm in the belief that a quality product can only be created using the best ingredients – the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company use only the best Belgian couverture chocolate together with Australian dried fruits and nuts. Fillings and flavourings are kept very simple as it is the chocolate that should be the experience.

If you're mad about chocolate, you'll love the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company's exquisite range of chocolate. So take the time to visit their three retail outlets in Pokolbin and see for yourself what everyone is talking about.

We invite you to indulge in our fine range of unique hand-made chocolate products and our huge variety of freshly made fudge, or relax at our factory and retail centre at 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin.

BOUTIQUE FACTORY & SHOWROOM 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin Ph 4998-6999 Also at Peterson Champagne House Ph 4998-7301 and Shop 5 Hunter Valley Gardens Village Ph 4998-7221

www.hvchocolate.com.au • admin@hvchocolate.com.au

INTOUCH HOME

BETTER LIVING BY DESIGN

DECLUTTER YOUR HOME

and free your mind!

Deborah Bartlett & Chris Williams from insideout.

De-cluttering is said to have a positive Her philosophy fits in well with the minimalistic effect on our well-being and the bonus approach to styling a home. It can look beautiful and functional at the same time. is creating a tidier home. Easy to say – De-cluttering can pave the way to finding out but difficult to do, decluttering before what style you want for your home, using each space for a purpose and to suit your lifestyle. a spring clean is a great way to get started on a minimalistic approach to Tips to help you keep the clutter at bay: your new look home for Summer.

When you buy something new, throw Procrastination is the first hurdle of any job that is overwhelming! Begin with a de-cluttering to-do list: •Make de-cluttering a priority •Start with one room at a time •Deal with each item, one at a time - Do you love it? Do you need it? When did you use it last?

•Follow-up with actions - give it away, sell it or trash it (being conscious of the environmental impact of course!)

Need some more inspiration to get started?

“Have nothing in your house you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”

- William Morris (1834 - 1896), English textile designer, artist and writer.

So – now we’re motivated - let’s continue!

Start by visualising the end result: •A tidy, efficient living space.

•A home filled with the things you really love •A place for only the things you really need •An allocated spot for everything •A home that makes you feel connected and at peace when you walk in.

•Carefully selected colours and furniture that reflect your lifestyle and personality.

Expect to feel overwhelmed when starting, so have your simplified list to help you to make decisions and keep the end result in mind.

If you find it all too much and you need assistance, Woody our local professional “declutterer” (yes there is such a person) is just what you need to get started. Woody is passionate about helping people create an organised and stress-free space to live. She says, “a bonus to organising physical clutter is that it helps you free your mind; giving your home peace and harmony which then allows you to move forward. Let’s face it, there is more to life than tidying.” Email:info@ agoodsort.net.au

something out – Discard anything not used in the last 12 months (such as the size 10 jeans you have just in case you lose weight.) Discard old magazines. Keep only the last 2 months and when you get the new subscription, throw the earliest one. Go through old recipe books and keep the ones you really love or need.

Scan the one or two recipes that you use and giveaway that pile of books you never open.

Sort your mail straight away – Deal with it, delegate it, discard it or file it away. Technology is a great way to scan any information on your iPhone or computer and throw away the hard copies not needed. There are plenty of apps that can scan your items.

Be kind to yourself – Don’t keep objects passed down if they fit the criteria on your list of not used or not loved. I am sure someone will treasure it if it hasn’t a place in your home.

Memories will always last, and they won’t collect dust or take up space.

If in doubt, chuck it out – Every found yourself saying “I may need it someday.” Let’s face it if you haven’t in the last 12 months, you probably won’t. This may include furniture and items we fill our garages with.

Be resourceful - Cut up cardboard boxes to separate spaces in drawers. You can then keep things in order and easy to find such as batteries, scissors, pens, and any odds and bods that you need.

Plan your pool now for a Summer of fun!

you, The Pool Specialists can come to your home and walk you through the process of construction and provide detailed project costings to ensure that your dream becomes a reality. They offer practical and affordable designs to suit every clients needs, and if you are looking to restore your existing pool to its past glory they also have a vast range of experience and products on offer when it comes to renovations.

The Pool Specialists have been building pools in the Hunter since 1986, constructing premium, quality swimming pools in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and the Hunter Valley right through to Singleton and the Upper Hunter.

If you’re dreaming of a new pool or spa for Summer then now’s the time to get moving! Check out the extensive gallery at their website for inspiration (www.thepoolspecialists.com.au) then call The Pool Specialists on 4942 6856 to arrange a site visit and quotation.

With over 29 years of multi-skilled, trade With a trophy cabinet full of MBA and HIA experience in the concrete swimming pool awards for excellence in swimming pool and spa construction industry, brothers (and construction, The Pool Specialists are the owners) Steve and David Boyldew, together people best equipped to offer professional with their specialised contractors, offer advice. With over 19 concrete swimming Credit: Brent Fletcher www.realestate.com.au tailored solutions in swimming pool design pools at constructed in the “Dudley Beach and construction.

Estate” since owner-building their home and office back in 1992. This is The Pool At The Pool Specialists, they understand Specialists display centre. Talk about that your swimming pool is not just a place keeping jobs local! for relaxation, it is also a reflection of your taste and personality. Working directly with

DAVID BOYLDEW

BUILDERS OF QUALITY CONCRETE POOLS in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Hunter Valley

0413 765 837

Set a realistic time frame – There is no rush, you probably have thought about doing it for years so a couple of months is nothing. Pick one night a week when you spend 15 minutes filling a garbage bag or two. You will be surprised at how much you can achieve in this time if you’re on a mission.

Get started and into the habit, ask for help if you need it - your spring clean will be much easier. Start now and breeze into 2016!

PH 02 4942 6856 MOB 0413 765 837 E dboyldew@tpg.com.au

www.thepoolspecialists.com.au

Vir n

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39

INTOUCH HOME

SPRING into the Garden and Reap

the Rewards in Summer!

Alisa and Lysandra

In Bed With Forty Winks

Forty Winks has forged an exclusive design collaboration with famous renovation twins Alisa and Lysandra, engaging the style stars to design and launch an exclusive four piece bedroom suite.

Born with a Scandinavian influence, the design duo have introduced the rawness of timber mixed with the softness of fabric and the elegance of rose gold to create a contemporary and sophisticated collection of products.

“When designing the suite, we set out to create inspiring pieces that were unique,

ASTA by Alisa and Lysandra Introducing Asta by Alisa and Lysandra.

The Australian made, Scandinavian inspired four piece bedroom suite combines the rawness of timber and the softness of fabric to create a contemporary 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

something that hadn't been seen before. We also wanted to stay true to ourselves and with what we believe represents us as designers.

We have created a suite that is on trend and unique that will appeal to a wide market, bringing to life something that people could envisage putting in their own bedroom with that added sense of luxury,” said Lysandra Stevens.

“Forty Winks is an iconic bedding retailer, and an extremely well known and trusted brand so we were thrilled to be given the opportunity to partner with the business to design an exclusive bedroom suite for their customers around the country,” said Alisa Ayres. Asta

by Alisa and Lysandra is now available at participating Forty Winks stores nationally for a limited time only.

You can catch Alisa and Lysandra in-store at Forty Winks Kotara on Saturday 26th September (1pm - 3pm) hosting an exclusive bedroom-styling session. For more information visit www.fortywinks.com.au and sophisticated look and feel. And the eye catching rose gold detail featured on the Bedside Tables and Tallboy adds a hint of elegance. Shown with Powder Fabric – available to order with Navy, Natural and Ocean fabric.

The Asta suite has been manufactured

by Silver Lynx, an Australian owned and operated manufacturer.

It happens every year. One day it’s blustery, bleak, and cold, and the next it’s warm and sunny. You want to begin Spring gardening, but you didn’t prepare like you should have. What do you do? It’s easy.

Keeping a journal is a great way to keep track of plants during Spring gardening. You can write down what was a success last year, what was a failure, and what plants should be moved with the change of seasons. It will not only prove useful this year, but also next year when you may not remember all of the small details.

Spring gardening can be a fun and relaxing activity, especially if it’s done correctly. By following these simple tips, you will make the most out of Spring gardening.

A definite must is throwing away any out of date chemicals. Pesticides and herbicides can be disposed of at any of the EPA organised free household chemical drop off days held across NSW each year. The next drop off day for Newcastle Council residents is Saturday 21 November 2015.

The first step to Spring gardening is sharpening your tools. Go early and have all your tools, such as shovels, hoes, and pruning shears sharpened to a fine edge.

You may even want to splurge on buying a second, well-sharpened blade for your lawnmower. That way you will have a spare if the one currently on your lawnmower needs to be taken to be sharpened. A sharp mower blade is very important if you want to have a beautiful lawn. Dull blades can injure your grass and allow disease to creep in, which can be costly in the long run to correct.

If you plan to put in a new lawn or plant garden beds, or if you had problems getting things to grow properly last year, you may want to call for soil testing. A soil test will tell you exactly what type of fertilizers and/or soil conditioners are needed to assure your yard looks the best it can.

A very helpful tip for Spring gardening, especially if you need a little help getting your yard into shape, is contacting landscaping professionals early. The later in the season you call, the better your chances are of having to be put on a waiting list!

For Lake Macquarie residents Council holds free Chemical CleanOut Days throughout the year so residents can drop off and dispose of hazardous waste. The next CleanOut is on the 12th of September at Glendale TAFE car park Frederick Street, Glendale.

Don’t forget to check that the garden chemicals you are keeping are stored where children and pets cannot get to them.

When should you begin planting? Weather, soil conditions, and what you are going to plant will make this variable – so check the packets of seeds and the labels of seedlings to find out the best month to plant.

Finally, while engaging in Spring gardening you have to remember to prune. For some plants, the flowers that will come up next year have set within 10 days of the end of a bloom, so timing is very important.

So get outdoors, suck in your first breath of fragrant Spring air and enjoy yourself! In the days to come you can sit back and take pride in the garden you've created, by doing all the You may also want to make arrangements early hard work now. to buy turf or to order a turf delivery if you plan to put in a new lawn. You should choose only moist rolls. Any that have dry roots or yellowed turf are no good.

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

Knights and Hunter TAFE get Deadly for Aboriginal LeaUning

“While the Indigenous Round is an important event in our annual calendar, for the Knights recognition is much more about a longer term approach of the entire Club and our stakeholders. Working with TAFE and the Learning Circle provides us with a holistic approach to achieving a better understanding of Aboriginal culture while engaging indigenous young people into important educational and sporting pathways," Mr Gidley said.

Hunter TAFE, the Aboriginal Learning Circle and the Newcastle Knights announced in August the details of a collaborative project that will empower Indigenous young people to pursue education as part of their future.

Hunter TAFE Deputy CEO, Marie Larkings, welcomed the project as part of the Institute's ongoing commitment to recognition, respect and empowering Aboriginal and Indigenous people to engage with education.

More than 160 Indigenous students in years 10 to 12 from the Hunter region attended the launch of the Deadly Skills project at Hunter TAFE's Newcastle campus.

“This partnership aims to provide young people with better ways to connect with education.

There are so many options for young people and our job is to make it easier for them and we hope by working with the Knights and the Learning Circle annually we will empower young people to pursue their dreams," Ms Larkings said.

Deadly Skills - It's your future Claim it, was launched to coincide with the NRL Indigenous Round and as part of the lead-up to 2015 National Skills Week.

Newcastle Knights CEO, Matt Gidley, said that this type of partnership was critical to the Knights' commitment to supporting the NRL’s “Game Plan” strategy as well as the Club's promise to respectful recognition of Aboriginal culture as part of our wider community.

The launch included Q&A discussion with past and present Knights players, Aboriginal art, dance and culture workshops as well as information about studying at TAFE.

i Want to Be a...

Game designer

Builder Landscaper

Musician

Nurse Youth Worker Chef

Manager Accountant

Unlock your potential Google Hunter TAFE

Call 131 225

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY Then in my 20’s my partner was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. We spent months and my inheritance from my grandfather chasing whatever therapy we could find, turning our back on the orthodox treatments of chemo and radiation.

The Big C, cancer, touches so many lives and statistics say it kills 30% more men than women. September is National Men’s Health Month #BlueSeptember so let’s check out how to keep the guys we love alive.

His diet was perfect, he meditated, exercised, he was rebirthed and spiritually healed - we would have tried anything.

Unfortunately his tumour kept growing, pushing his head over to one side, it was so massive.

Nearly 27,000 Australian men will be diagnosed with either prostate or bowel cancer this year.

Medical scientists discover more and more links between cancers and lifestyle habits every year.

Good evidence supports eating lots of fruits and vegetables, whole-grains and fish and reducing processed foods - especially those containing flour, sugar and processed meats. Practically, this means swapping a takeaway pie or chicken schnitzel for a tuna salad, multigrain roll or a roast chicken and veg meal at the club. It’s great to snack on walnuts and fruit and to quench thirst with green tea or water throughout the day.

Keeping regular sleep and waking hours and getting sunshine daily have also been found to reduce the incidence and/or severity of cancers.

Changing your daily habits can sometimes feel overwhelming so getting advice on what cancer prevention measures you should adopt might be a lifesaving move. Registered naturopaths, nutritionists and dietitians study for many years to simplify high quality scientific information into easy to follow steps.

Age and family history must be included in all conversations about health. Establishing a comfortable relationship with a GP is primary to managing your risk factors. How often you need to see your GP and the type of screening needed to stay on top of prostate and other cancer risks is an individual discussion between you and them, dependent on your risks. If you or someone you love doesn’t feel comfortable talking to their GP it’s important to know that it’s OK, even essential, to keep looking until you find someone you feel happy getting up-close and personal with.

Research into cancer prevention and treatment is vitally important for all of us to participate in whatever capacity we can. Whether you wear a pin on #Daffodil Day, talk to your mates about #BlueSeptember or donate to a #Movember campaign let’s make sure we keep the funds flowing so we can one day beat these cancers and keep our men alive.

By Kath Teagle

Mayfield Medical Connection 55 Hanbury Street, Mayfield 2304 PH (02) 4968 2157 www.mayfieldmedicalconnection.com.au 42 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Thankfully we sought advice from a qualified herbalist who gave us some unexpected advice: speak to an oncologist and if so advised, get chemotherapy as quickly as possible.

Wholistic Integrated Health Care...

What's the Buzz?

Over two-thirds of all Australians use complimentary therapies, yet more than half of these Australians don’t share this information with their GPs. Kath Teagle, the Director of Newcastle’s first truly Integrated Health and Medical Practice (Mayfield Medical Connection), chats to us this month about what integrated healthcare means, why she started an integrated health practice in Newcastle and what this new generation of health and medical service delivery has to offer the Hunter community.

So Kath what does an ‘integrated approach to healthcare’ mean? It means combining the best of both worlds: the advantage of western medical knowledge and treatments with the option to use natural therapies openly.

The word ‘holistic’ is often bandied around what does it actually mean? We prefer to spell it with a ‘w’ because we see our patients as ‘whole‘ rather than ‘holes’! It really just means that the whole person is considered in treatment not just their symptoms.

Any type of treatment can be applied holistically, from the ‘straightiest- one- eightiest’ western approach to the most far out esoteric.

Why did you want to start a wholistic, integrated health and medical practice? It was really based on my own life experiences: as a child with a very ill mother, as partner to a man given a diagnosis of a potentially terminal illness and the frustrations of finding balanced heath care solutions as a parent of two young children.

Growing up, my Mum suffered from a relatively rare autoimmune disorder. She was desperately ill and desperate to be well to see her young family grow up. Like many in her situation she was willing to give anything a crack. She would travel from our farm in Wagga to Melbourne to see specialists who tried treatments with chemo therapy and high doses of cortisone. Whilst she was there she came across a naturopath who suggested she take high doses of vitamin C. Mum integrated the separate elements of her treatment, but didn’t feel comfortable telling her specialists about the treatment her naturopath was giving her. Luckily, it worked out well for her; but it may not have. Not disclosing this kind of information to your doctor can be dangerous.

We followed her advice and he responded really well to chemo.

We were very lucky our resistance to integrating both medicine and complementary measures didn’t cost his life. This was an epiphany for me - how stupid to deny a whole wing of knowledge!

So, there are a couple of decades between then and opening MMC, why did it take so long? Years later I lived in Sydney with my new partner and our two children, we had access to fantastic Integrative Medicine at our local GPs with the wonderful Dr Jonathan Bentley - I found his mix of Western medicine and complementary treatments inspiring.

Then we moved to Newcastle to the cold hard reality of the medical care that was available to the rest of the country.

The IV vitamins, functional pathology and evidence based nutritionals offered to us in Sydney, just weren’t readily available here.

At the same time, my job as a teacher with developmentally delayed kids showed me that those who could afford to travel the big distances and seek Integrative Doctors saw significantly greater improvements than those who couldn’t. It just seemed so unfair!

Finally... the seed germinated.

So you finally had the flash, but you were a teacher, how did you come to open a medical centre? A bit of serendipity! It made sense to me rather than training to be a doctor to invest my energy and time into creating a practice that attracted the kind of medical practitioners and complementary therapists that were open to providing the very best health care working together in a supportive environment.

So began a three year journey of planning, researching and learning. On the very night that my partner Chris suggested that my attention would be better spent on my family than on a business plan that was never going to happen, I spied an ad for a practice around the corner from our home. The rest is history!

So you’ve got a medical practice, how did you make it Wholistically Integrative?

More happenstance, more faith that the right people would come. We were blessed to have Dr Bo Wong, who is a GP and an acupuncturist join us. Then someone who knew of my dream for an integrative medical practice mentioned Dr Stuart Glastonbury, a GP and herbalist who was practicing in Queensland, and by happy co-incidence, the little brother of my best friend back at Wagga Wagga High School!

Stuart and his young family wanted to move to Newcastle and he agreed to come and work with us. So that gave us a GP who speaks both languages; his influence and knowledge rubs off on the GPs around him as theirs does him.

Now add to the mix our wonderful Dr Filipe Soares Rocha who is also a practicing Reiki Master, and the insightful and well considered practices of Dr Miranda Cook, Dr Kristy Baily and

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY our registrar Dr Riarne Smith. We’ve also added the excitement and commitment of dieticians, psychologists, naturopaths and onsite pathology.

The addition of Dr Kristy Bayliss has meant that we can open on Saturdays and both earlier and later on weekdays to help out those with work and study commitments.

Also, knowing that therapy is followed more often if you have it on hand, we have an herbal dispensary available. Now you’re really starting to get the kind of practice that would have saved both my Mum and my ex a lot of risk and me as a mum of two kids a lot of effort. But without the path behind me I would never have made creating this space a priority!

In the near future, we are planning a men’s weight loss group based on the GutBuster lifestyle program, a Newcastle initiative that provides real hope for permanent, sustainable weight loss.

So that’s a lot you’ve got going on? In less than 4 years we’ve gathered such a wonderful mix of expertise to offer to the community of the Hunter. I love that the centre addresses all kinds of care, from just plain great doctoring to herbal and energetic therapies, it’s an honour to be amongst it and we also try to involve the community wherever we can.

On 5th September our Naturopaths are running a free Natural Health Fair afternoon with natural health workshops, cooking demonstrations, herbal tea tastings and a drop-in ‘chat to a naturopath’ session so that people can get an idea about the service without having to commit to an appointment.

They are really keen to make their services accessible so they’re running a $15 for 15 minutes special for September as well. It’s Spring...time to get healthy!

Later this year, we’ll be offering evening meditation classes for stress prevention and health. Not to mention the extension to the building that’s just about to start that will house a far- infrared sauna for chronic pain relief and detox assistance.

CERTIFICATE III IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CARE DIPLOMA OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CARE

Plus we’re passionate about being there for people of all walks of life and we’ve just followed this passion through gaining approval from ACON as an LGBTI Safe Place. Yeah, it’s a lot, and it is seriously exciting.... and just a little bit scary.

Scary or not, it sounds like the way healthcare needs to go! So how do we stay intouch with what’s happening at your practice? We’ve a facebook page called ‘MayfieldMedical’ that we update constantly with all our latest news, or call our lovely admin team. Plus our website, though a bit dodgy at the moment, is just about to get very comprehensive: www.mayfieldmedicalconnection.com.au

42 STATION ST, WARATAH | PH 4938 7200 TO FIND A CHILDCARE CENTRE NEAR YOU VISIT WWW.TILLYSCHILDCARE.COM.AU

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

Bravehearts Launches 19th Annual White Balloon Day and WALK 4 WILLIAM National child protection advocate Bravehearts is calling on ‘children’s champions’ in communities right across Australia to participate and donate at the 19th annual White Balloon Day on Friday, September 11th.

White Balloon Day is a vital awareness and fundraising campaign to protect Aussie kids.

Pre-School educator Jackie Mulholland has arranged for the Pre-Schools children and their families to be involved in Walk 4 William as part of the Where's William? Campaign supported by Bravehearts.

The Where’s William? Campaign is the initiative of William Tyrells family who are working with the support of Bravehearts to raise awareness of William so that he can be found and returned to them. Walk 4 William events will be held on the 12th of September to coincide with the 12-month anniversary of William’s disappearance.

Hamilton Pre-School kids will be walking to My Baker in Newcastle where Jan Lassen (the owner of the bakery) has generously donated morning tea treats. The walk will then continue on to Newcastle beach for a play in the sand and the chance to discover the secrets of the rock pools.

Held during Child Protection Week (September "We are passionate about child protection 6-12), the event brings together residents, and as parents and teachers ourselves, we schools, governments, police, survivors, ambassadors, corporates and organisations to cannot imagine the pain William's family is going through. The Pre-School is hoping heighten awareness about the importance of that by building a sense of community with protecting children. our children and families we can play a small part in raising awareness of William's More than 1000 registered events took place disappearance and at the same time reinforce in communities across Australia last year to the importance of child protection within our raise funds and share Bravehearts vision to make Australia the safest place in the world to community” Jackie said. raise a child. Funds raised helped Bravehearts This event has been posted on the Pre-School to educate more than 83,500 children with Facebook page and has received loads of personal safety and support more than likes from people right across Australia.

5000 kids and their families with specialist counseling services over the past year.

For more information about White Balloon Locally based Hamilton Community Pre-School Day and Walk 4 William visit www.bravehearts.org.au provides local children (3-5 years) with the opportunity to be involved in the Bravehearts Program. This year, as part of the program,

Foster Carers needed in the Hunter Region Barnardos Australia is currently looking for temporary foster carers for children aged 5 and under, in the Hunter region.

“We have babies and children in crisis who require immediate care for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months while permanent arrangements are made for their care. Their own families may be unable to care for them due to a multitude of reasons, such as domestic violence, drug and alcohol use or mental illness. As such we are calling on people in the local area to come forward if they are willing to open their heart and their homes to a child in need” Korryn Harris, Barnardos recruitment worker said.

Karen became a foster carer with Barnardos a few years ago and has provided a safe home for many young children that were placed in her care. On speaking with Karen about her experiences,

Barnardos Australia urgently needs shortterm foster carers for local children in need.

We provide support, training and a generous tax free allowance of $1050 per fortnight.

Call us today.

1800 663 441

barnardos.org.au/wecare ABN 18 068 557 906 | A Company Limited by Guarantee | Registered Charity | Models used to protect privacy_CC_15_00324

44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

she admits being a crisis foster carer takes up a major part of her life and can be very challenging, however knowing she is making a real difference in a child’s life makes it all worthwhile. Karen also feels she is giving back and doing something positive for the community. “These poor little ones so desperately need help and although its not always easy, its just so rewarding when you get a smile or a hug and know you are making a difference.”

Foster Carers need time to care for a baby or young child (sometimes with one or more siblings) and meet their needs. Applicants need to be over 25 years of age. All applicants will be assessed on an individual basis and singles and couples regardless of sexual orientation are encouraged to apply. Foster Carers receive a generous allowance of up to $1050 p/fortnight and will be eligible for Centrelink entitlements, on-going training and support from caseworkers.

If you are interested or just want to find out more, please call Barnardos Hunter/ Central Coast on 4978 9500. One of the friendly Barnardos team will be happy to discuss any enquiries you may have.

INTOUCH FEATURE FINANCE ROSSAND NOBLE MONEY

Your Word is your Wand...

Your thoughts are made of words. Your thoughts create your feelings. Therefore the words you use to describe your experience also create the feelings that you experience. Change your words and you will change your feelings.

By Richard Ford The way we communicate has such a powerful impact on everything we experience. The words we use can move others and move you. Some of the great orators of the past and present are powerful examples of the influential and potent nature of language. Language at times can be compelling in its persuasiveness.

Despite what many say – “nothing you say is said for no reason at all”. Quite often I hear people say in response to their language - 'I was just saying that'. What you say will be at least a representation or an indication of where you are coming from in your thinking.

In the end, there are only two places you can come from when you say anything, love or fear. When speaking, “soothe” your words with peace and love and then you will be heard. Let How many times have you wanted your partner, go of all righteous and judgmental language friend or colleague to “do what they say they as it just produces more experiences of will do”. How many times have you said that righteousness and judgment. Using righteous to yourself and criticised yourself for not doing and judgmental language is the quickest way to that? There are a large number of businesses have someone shut down on you and not hear where this is the prevailing and dominant value. you.

At a deeper and spiritual level, the language •What words/language can you use that we use is a symbol of the way we think. The actually express what you want? words we attach to our reality become our •What words/language can you use to express reality. Language shapes our reality and is yourself without judgment? literally accepted by our unconscious mind.

•Develop a consciousness around your Words we attach to our experience become our language. experience. Changing our language changes “A powerful agent is the right word. Whenever our thinking which in turn changes our reality. we come upon one of those intensely right Whatever you believe you experience. Your words… the result is physical as well as beliefs are made of words and, therefore, can spiritual and electrically prompt.” be changed by words. If your experiences are not aligned with your beliefs, then change your - Mark Twain beliefs.

With a head for business and a heart for family, Andy is kicking some serious goals After a stint in Sydney, Andy moved back to the Hunter with his wife to settle down and raise a family. If relocating, buying a house and raising three kids (under five) wasn’t enough to keep him busy, Andy also decided to start his own business.

“While living in a cosy two bedroom cottage is fine while the girls are still young, Katrina and I needed a little more space in the house (and maybe some more sleep). Rethink has helped me to minimise the financial risks involved in my business, giving us the freedom to make some much needed lifestyle changes – like renovating our home.”

Now Andy is taking things in his stride, with a worldwide client base and a solid stream of work. Andy and Katrina are now in the financial position to enjoy time together as a family and add an extra storey to their house to create the perfect home for their growing family.

We’d like to acknowledge your achievements Andy, you really are doing your family proud.

Rethink your possibilities.

Financial Planning | Accounting | Law | Coaching 02 4962 4440 | 2 Dick Street, Newcastle West NSW 2302 | rethinkfinancial.com.au

In fact, debt is a lot like smoking. When you start out, you believe you’re in control and you can quit at any time. As the months and the years roll past, this initial belief does not fade away. With every debt you incur, the mantra “I can afford this” repeats itself in your subconscious, until you wake up one morning and realise that you’re in over your head. Debt has well and truly caught you in its trap. Debt has become a bad habit.

And just like any bad habit, debt requires as much hard work and discipline to shake. The first step in the process is to acknowledge that you have a problem instead of turning a blind eye, hoping it will go away or thinking that you’ll get around to it some day in the future.

The REAL Cost of Debt...

There’s been a lot in the news lately about the pitfalls of zero interest balance transfer credit cards. Studies have shown that many people who take up these “saviour” offers end up with double the debt and, after the interest-free period expires, a high-interest credit card. (Tip: if you do go down this path make sure you cancel the original credit card so you aren’t tempted to use it once the balance has been transferred).

This is just one cost of debt (more debt) – but do you really know what it costs you to be in debt? Are you thinking that you can handle it or is it getting you down?

One of the motivators to setting your feet on the path to debtfree living is to look at the real cost of that debt. What is it doing to you? Where does it hurt the most?

Most debts (the ones that make you cry into your morning coffee anyway) are the ones that are incurred for a period exceeding one year. You’ve probably seen or heard advertisements that go something like this: Buy your ‘Wiggly Snoogle’ for this special one-time limited offer today – 24 easy monthly instalments.

Beware – this is where you can fall into the deadliest trap of them all. The interest rates are usually above average and you’re stuck with a long term contract. Yes, getting your Wiggly Snoogle with the 25 000 features sounds like a good idea because of the easy monthly payments, especially if you compare it to the one-time lump sum payment. (By the way, using the ‘lump sum’ to ‘monthly payment’ comparison is a well-

known sales technique to separate you from your hard-earned cash), but this is where the lenders make their money. The longer they can have you in their clutches, the longer they can smile all the way to the bank and keep you groaning on your way to work.

Sometimes debt is unavoidable, but as a species we’ve become too complacent about debt and we jump into it without thinking.

Your Magic Plastic (a.k.a. Credit Card) is another one of those fiendishly sneaky evils the banks developed to rid you of your money. If – and that’s a big if – you manage your credit card correctly and pay off the full amount at the end of each month, they can be great to have and smooth the little rough patches in life. But most of us only pay the minimum amount required each month – and that’s exactly what the banks want. It leaves you in the red and owing them money. Which gives them ample opportunity to apply the thumbscrews. Remember, every month you’re in the red, you’re paying interest on the outstanding amount which gets added to your bill.

The big mistake we all make is to look at our monthly statement and say: “Hey, that’s not too bad. I can still afford my repayments. And I have some credit available to buy that wiggly snoogle as well!” The problem arises when you battle to make your income stretch through the month because of the various different repayments you have to make.

It’s critically important that you start looking at the TOTAL COST of your debt over your lifetime. Once you’re over the shock and horror of how much of your hard earned cash is going up in smoke, you’ll be in a position to tackle the problem head on and take the path to debt-free living. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 45

INTOUCH FEATUREDREAM ROSS NOBLE HOME

DREAM HOME

31 Helen Street, Merewether Lifestyle and quality in Newcastle’s most sought after beachside suburb.

Situated on an 809sqm block, this beautifully presented residence is perfectly located in a very private setting and just footsteps from Newcastle’s most famous beaches.

Brimming with architectural panache and style, transcending comfortable, contemporary living, this home is best described as a beautifully crafted private retreat on one level.

When it comes to a busy and modern lifestyle, everything you would want and need has been taken into consideration. There is nothing to do. This is low maintenance living with the highest possible quality inclusions.

Faultlessly designed, the overriding success of this home is the clever use of space and light coupled with the harmony of the materials used to maximise the enjoyment offered by this marvelous location. The use of glass and concrete are perfectly offset by the warm timber surfaces and superbly curved interior walls - creating hubs for outdoor living.

Beautifully laid out, this is an all season home with high ceilings, ducted air conditioning and under floor heating; with casual open plan living areas and front and rear entertaining areas including a built in BBQ and seating.

Four bedrooms and four stunning bathrooms make up the front and rear of the house with the extensive living area, open kitchen with scullery/ pantry areas making up the middle. A lovely, big adjoining family and dining room looks out onto the entertaining area complete with a swimming pool.

The residence also includes a large three car lock up garage with additional storage. There is also an outdoor shower on returning from the beach or pool.

With easy access to the beach and local shops, it really does not get much better than this.

The property is being sold through Walkom Real Estate with offers over $2,700,000.

Contact Greg Handsaker PH 4974 8900 or 0418 684 866 E greg.handsaker@walkom.comm.au We have obtained all information in this document from sources we believe to be reliable; however, we cannot guarantee its accuracy. Prospective purchasers are advised to carry out their own investigations.

46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

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