Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley | INTOUCH MAGAZINE JULY 22' ISSUE by INTOUCH MAGAZINE

IS SU E #7 8 J U LY 2 0 2 2

Human Nature ON THE ROAD WITH

PLUS....

Newcastle Men's Shed Changing Lives One Job at a Time Wallsend's Heritage Celebrated with Modern Mural New! Hunter Homes & Property Trades & Services

School Holiday GUIDE

pg. 39

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What’s on at the

Civic Theatre

Creativity 8-16 July

Live at Lunch 14 July, 12pm

Carl Caulfield’s new hard-hitting satire about the crisis facing the Humanities in our Universities.

So French So Fabuleux! Divas on Bastille Day.

The Sapphires by Tony Briggs 24 August, 11am & 7.30pm

The Barber of Seville 25 August, 7.30pm

The multi award-winning musical play presented by HIT Productions.

Opera Australia’s riotous romp along the road to true love!

civictheatrenewcastle.com.au or 4929 1977 3

Attend a Free Tiny Tots workshop! Friday 15th July / 9.30am – 11.30pm Bring a friend and enjoy a Free Workshop of Ballet, Jazz and AcroDance with some snack and colouring breaks.

Lots of fun for Everyone.

Enrol Now for Term 3 ! My Grown-up & Me

Classes for 12 months to 3yrs

Tiny Tots Ballet and Jazz

Pre-Kinder Classes for 3-5yrs

Pre Primary Ballet and Jazz

For little ones already in Kindergarten USE QR CODE TO BOOK WORKSHOP P 02 4952 9294 www.nationalcollegeofdance.com

RAD WINTER WORKSHOP Don’t miss your chance to gain the extra confidence you need for an excellent exam result with RAD examiner Elise Frawley this July!

INTERMEDIATE FOUNDATION Dates: 11/12/13 July Time: 3:45pm – 5:45pm

For only $15.00

INTERMEDIATE

Spend two hours with Ben Hutton (Physiotherapist) and Emma Burden (Dietitian).

Dates: 14/15/16 July Time: 10:30am – 12:30pm

ADVANCED FOUNDATION Dates: 14/15/16 July Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm

Emma Burden

ADVANCED 1 Dates: 14/15/16 July Time: 3:15pm – 5:15pm

USE QR CODE TO BOOK YOUR PLACE P 02 4952 9294 www.nationalcollegeofdance.com 4

Learn all things nutrition as well as the ins and outs on feet, ankles and legs (including injury prevention!). Two dates avaliable: 11th July / 1:30pm – 3:30pm 14th July / 12:45pm – 2:45pm

Ben Hutton

HOME GAMES

TICKETS: NORTHSTARS.THUNDERTIX.COM

FROM THE

PAGE 16

EDITORS...

It's a well-known fact that there is a mental health crisis in the country today, and in Australia, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women. According to Beyond Blue, seven men die by suicide daily in Australia. This is a shocking statistic made worse by the fact that men are much less likely to seek help. There is, however, a global movement that had its humble beginnings right here in the Newcastle region that is working to change that – one cup of tea (or coffee) at a time. This month we caught up with the crew at Newcastle Men's Shed to talk about the enthusiasm and positivity that bounces off the Shed's walls daily. Read more on page 33. Another bunch of guys doing great things is Human Nature! They've toured with some of the music industry's biggest names, including Michael Jackson and Celine Dion, and performed to over a billion television viewers worldwide during the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. They also had the privilege of performing on the Oprah Winfrey Show during her Australian TV special. In 2019, each member of Human Nature was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame. If you ask them (which we did) how their success has measured up to their dreams, they'll tell you they fell short but that if they'd managed to reach the peak, they may have burned out a long time ago and wouldn't still be doing what they love today. We can't really imagine the last 33 years without Human Nature, and we also can't believe they don't think they quite hit the big time either! Maybe they're still just the humble, down-toearth Aussies we've all come to love. Read more on page 18. It's school holidays again (collective moan!), and there's nothing quite as terrifying as pent-up, bored children lurking in your midst! Don't despair! Check out our School Holiday Guide for the best local hits to keep the kids busy and enjoy family time these holidays. See page 39. Enjoy!

Publisher Two Tribes Media Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address 297 Brunker Road, Adamstown, NSW 2289 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales (02) 4943 0888 © Copyright 2022 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

PAGE 38

Contents

ISSUE #78 | JULY 2022 14 16 18 22 26 30 31 32 33 36 37 39 52 54

On The Music Scene | You Can Save Live Music in Newcastle See You at The Civic

On The Road with Human Nature Unique Tribute to King of Soul Live Life on The Wildside! How Diet Can Reduce the Impact of Long COVID On Tour with The Kid | Humane Society Wallsend's Heritage Celebrated with Modern Mural Mateship Saves Lives – Newcastle Men's Shed Dentistry: Trend Versus Reality Community News | What's Happening in Your Community?

School Holidays Guide – Winter 2022 Popular Community in The Perfect Location Trades & Services Directory

REGULARS 8 24 25 30 36 45

What's On Horoscope Eat. Drink. Travel. Family & Community Health & Wellbeing Hunter Homes & Lifestyle

Publishers Two Tribes Media

Features Writer Lianne Morris

Editorial Content & Advertising Di von Essen Quentin von Essen Tiffany Fordham

Contributors Nik Adamson Dr Alex Huszti Mel Murray Chloe O’Sullivan Tanya Obreza Kate McDermott

Graphic Designer Katrina Reeves

GET MOBILE! View this month’s Issue of intouch Magazine on your phone, tablet or computer. SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT www.intouchmagazine.com.au Facebook intouchmagazines Instagram intouchmagazines

ON THE COVER

Photographer – Peter Brew-Bevan Australia's homegrown heroes Human Nature are returning to the Australian stage with Live 2022 Rebooted – People Get Ready, Again. This month we caught up with the band to ask about touring, what's coming next and life in general. Read more on page 18.

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WHAT'S ON in July WE MAKE EVERY EFFORT POSSIBLE TO BE CORRECT, HOWEVER EVENTS DO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK INDIVIDUAL EVENTS ONLINE BEFORE PLANNING.

■ A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder at Warners Bay Theatre. Opera Hunter presents this Tony Award winning Musical Comedy written by Robert Freedman & Steven Lutvak. Tickets from $35. Book your tickets online at www.operahunter.org.au. 1-3 July.

SATURDAY 2 JULY ■ Drag Queen Bingo with Timberlina at Toronto Diggers. Timberlina’s eccentric style, naughty quick wit and dazzling diamond repertoire will have you in stitches on the floor screaming for more! Tickets are $25 and includes 3 games of Bingo. To book visit www.timberproductions.com.au

TUESDAY 5 JULY ▲ The Spongebob Musical at Young People’s Theatre, Hamilton. Based on the hit Nickelodeon cartoon, this bubble-filled production follows the adventures of SpongeBob, Patrick, Sandy and Squidward on their mission to save the town of Bikini Bottom and have the Best Day Ever! Tickets are $25. To book visit yptninc.sales.ticketsearch.com 5 July – 6 August

FRIDAY 1 JULY ▲ Amy Shark at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Hot on the heels of her Arena Tour, Amy is touring regional Australia on her See U Somewhere Tour. To book tickets visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au. 1 + 2 July

WEDNESDAY 6 JULY ■ Startup Stories – Bliss Cavanagh (Creative Sensory Spaces) at I2N Hub Honeysuckle. Hear the experiences of an entrepreneur and business owner – the highs, the lows, the wins, the mistakes, the inside story. This event is free however registration is essential, to register visit www.eventbrite.com.au

■ NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round at McDonald Jones Stadium. Watch the Knights take on the Titans while you support the Mark Hughes Foundation. All money raised during the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round goes directly to brain cancer research and patient support. To book tickets visit www.nrl.com/ tickets

▲ Pigsty in July at Dashville. A decadent day in the bush, celebrating all things dark, warm and wintery. Feast on local winter harvests, slug on the finest of refreshments, roll around on all fours to some exceptional live music and ripen the soul with toasty bonfires. Visit www.dashville.com.au for more information and tickets.

■ No Scrubs 90s + early 00s Party at Shoal Bay Country Club. Calling all Barbie Girls, Teenage Dirtbags and All Stars, get dancing in the moonlight at Shoal Bay. Tickets are $24.25. Book online at www.shoalbaycountryclub. com.au

■ PINK Race Day at Newcastle Racecourse. Support Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation for Clubs in the Community. There will be everything from fine dining to a more relaxed picnic-style on the lawn. To book visit www. newcastleracecourse.com.au

■ Disney On Ice presents Into The Magic at Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Hosts Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will take the audience on an expedition across raging seas, snow covered mountains and the marigold bridge. The extravaganza will feature Moana, Frozen, Coco and Beauty and the Beast. To book tickets visit www.nec.net.au 7-10 July.

Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Hunter in this exquisite Wine, Cheese & Chocolate tasting. Relax in a private tasting area with a dedicated wine expert who will help you explore the exceptional wines that have made McGuigan one of the most awarded wineries in the world. You will enjoy a selection of the best seasonal, hand-crafted cheeses from the artisans

at Hunter Valley Cheese Factory, plus carefully selected hand made chocolates by artisan chocolatier Maître Pâtissier complementing a range of premium McGuigan dessert and fortified wines. Cost – $25pp pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 to 6 people. Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.

WINE, CHEESE & CHOCOLATE AT MCGUIGAN 8

• WHAT'S ON

THURSDAY 7 JULY

SATURDAY 9 JULY ■ Twist & Shout at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. Enjoy an International tribute celebrating the hits of the rock n roll legends of the 50’s and 60’s. Starring the multi-award winning and internationally renowned The Williams Brothers. Tickets are $69.90. To book visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre. com.au ■ Whale Tales at Barry Park Lookout, Fingal Bay. Learn about humpback whales and where to spot them. The free talk is presented by local marine conservationist Jeannie Lawson. The talks will be held every hour from 10.30am with the last talk at 1.30pm. The series of talks will continue on the 16th of July at South Headland on Kinglsey Drive, Boat Harbour.

start-up stock of toys for Bikers for Kids was also lost. To kickstart the distribution in 2022 Bikers for Kids are having a “Christmas In July” donation. There will a visit from Santa, raffle tickets and face painting. 8.30am-1.30pm

MONDAY 11 JULY ■ Winter Fondalicious at The Station Newcastle. A night of aerobics to banging 80s tunes. Join in for the workout, the company, the photos or the music! The cost is $10. 6.30pm-7.30pm

▲ Salsa Dance & Social at The Exchange, Hamilton. A spicy night of Latin dancing! Learn the art of salsa and bachata dancing every Monday. Visit www.letssalsa.com.au for more information and additional locations.

THURSDAY 14 JULY

▲ Raffertys Coastal Run at Raffertys Road, Cams Wharf. Choose from three course distances – 12km, 22km and 36km. Starting and finishing at Raffertys Resort, the trail snakes through the Wallarah National Park taking in the sites of beautiful Lake Macquarie and the stunning coastline of historic Catherine Hill Bay and the Munmorah State Conservation Area. Entry from $20. Register online at raffertyscoastalrun.com.au ■ Newcastle Brickfest at Newcastle Jockey Club. Be inspired by the incredible creations of the Master Builder’s, gain insight from interacting with the exhibitors and be awestruck by the LEGO displays. There will be a build area, speed builds, LEGO raffle and more. To book tickets visit www.trybooking. com/BYUNH 9-10 July

■ Seussical The Musical at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Hunter Drama will perform a full blown musical adventure of the Cat in the Hat through The Jungle of Nool. Tickets from $49. To book visit www.civictheatrenewcastle. com.au. 14-16 July ▼ So French! So Fabuleux! Divas Bastille Day Concert at Newcastle City Hall. Celebrate the music of France with French classical & cabaret opera star soprano, Amelia Farrugia, French knight Flutist Jane Rutter, and acclaimed pianist Donna Balson. This fabulous trio of Aussie Divas perform best-loved French arias songs & solos for voice, flute and piano. To book visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

SUNDAY 10 JULY ■ Newcastle Toy Run Christmas in July at Mortels Thornton. The loss from the Wickham storage fire in March unfortunately meant the

FRIDAY 1 JULY The Years Blackbutt Hotel Amigos Wickham Park Hotel SATURDAY 2 JULY The Rat Pack Belmont 16s Jump Honeysuckle Hotel Rock Rhapsody Raymond Terrace Bowling Club SUNDAY 3 JULY Local Safari The Stag & Hunter Stand Atlantic The Cambridge Kai West Wangi RSL FRIDAY 8 JULY Hayden Johns Adamstown Bowling Club Is Man Kind The Wickham Park Hotel Dig That Duo Queens Wharf Hotel SATURDAY 9 JULY Boy and Bear The Cambridge The Eagles Show Belmont 16s Outerphase Swansea RSL Trancemission Wests New Lambton SUNDAY 10 JULY Finnian Johnson Honeysuckle Hotel Tim Broadway Stockton Bowling Club FRIDAY 15 JULY James Van Cooper with Piper Butcher The Stag & Hunter Chris Unicomb Soldiers Point Bowling Club Kate Ceberano Shoal Bay Country Club SATURDAY 16 JULY Trinity Woodhouse Paxton Bowling Club XYZ The Exchange Greta Stanley The Cambridge FRIDAY 22 JULY Simon Kinney-Lewis The Stag & Hunter The Faim The Newcastle Hotel Tony Remedios Soldiers Point Bowling Club SATURDAY 23 JULY Shivoo Bradford Rutherford Hotel The Years Wests New Lambton SUNDAY 24 JULY Greg Bryce The Wickham Park Hotel FRIDAY 29 JULY Vacations The Cambridge Barnes Storm Wallsend Diggers & Mezz Bar

Continued next page ▶ WHAT'S ON •

WHAT'S ON in July (Continued)

FRIDAY 15 JULY

■ French Fridays at Event Cinemas Kotara. The annual program brings five specially selected award winning French films to Newcastle. Showing in July is the Bastille Day celebration film based on Balzac's classic novel, Lost Illusions. The Little French Market with stallholders offering delicious French food and French themed handicrafts will begin at 6pm with the movie starting at 7pm. All movies are in French with English subtitles.

School year 4 and year 9 students will present the fun musical to celebrate Christmas in July. To book tickets visit events.humanitix.com/ elf-the-musical-jr ■ Menopause the Musical at Civic Theatre Newcastle. The original New York and Las Vegas hit is coming to Newcastle! Inspired by a hot flush and a bottle of wine, Menopause The Musical® is a celebration for women who are on the brink of, in the middle of, or have survived “The Change”. To book visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.

■ Kate Miller-Heidke at City Hall, Newcastle. Join award-winning singer-songwriter Kate Miller-Heidke and her six-piece band for their Child in Reverse Tour. Tickets begin at $90. To book visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com. au.

SATURDAY 16 JULY ■ Bar & BBQ Festival at Maitland Showground. A full-throttle weekend of the best BBQ, drinks, food, entertainment, and market stalls that the Hunter region has to offer! 16-17 July.

TUESDAY 19 JULY ▼ The TEN Tenors at Civic Theatre Newcastle. The Ten Tenors return to Newcastle this month with a brand new show, The Highway Men. This all new production will feature some of the greatest country music songs alongside fan favourites and classics that audiences know and love such as Bohemian Rhapsody, Nessun Dorma, Unchained Melody and other rock and pop classics. Tickets from $79. Visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

MONDAY 25 JULY

THURSDAY 21 JULY ▲ Dance Terrain – Film Screening at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Dance Terrain directed by Catapult Dance Choreographic Hub is a large scale multi-generational performance now captured on film. This large-scale project focuses on stories of where the land meets the sea, and the landscapes across our region. To book visit www.civictheatrenewcastle. com.au

FRIDAY 22 JULY

■ Lake Mac’s Green Screenings: The Green Lie at Lake Cinema, Boolaroo. In his latest documentary film, Werner Boote (Plastic Planet, Everything's Under Control) shows us, together with environmental expert Kathrin Hartmann, how we can protect ourselves. The screening will be followed by a Q&A session. Tickets are free however bookings are essential. To book your ticket visit www. lakemac.com.au/Events-directory

WEDNESDAY 20 JULY ■ Elf the Musical Jr at The Sandi Warren Performance Centre. Newcastle Grammar 10

• WHAT'S ON

■ Human Nature at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Bringing the joy of live music back to Newcastle, the iconic foursome will return to their raw vocal roots, bringing together 30 years of performances for a concert tour of Australia that we have all been waiting for. Tickets from $109. To book visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au (see more on page 18)

SATURDAY 23 JULY ■ Repair Café at Rathmines Theatre. Dedicated volunteers will be on hand to fix any broken items that are simply too good to waste. Clothes, hand tools, small electrical items and small pieces of furniture can be brought in for repair, free of charge. 10am–1pm

▲ Australian Decorative And Fine Arts Societies (ADFAS) Newcastle fine arts presentation: “Off the Page - Persian Arts in the Medieval and Pre-Modern Islamic World” by Susan Scollay. 6:30pm at Hunter School of the Performing Arts Theatre, Broadmeadow. This lecture will examine the content and ‘look’ of the books that circulated in the medieval and later Persianate world. Tickets are $20 (includes refreshments). Register by e-mailing: guests@adfasnewcastle.org.au. For more info visit www.adfasnewcastle.org.au

THURSDAY 28 JULY ■ Modern Greek Cooking at The Essential Ingredient. Join the hands-on 3 hours class and celebrate all things Greek food. The cost is $180.44. To book visit www. essentialingredient.com.au

SUNDAY 31 JULY ■ Opera Cocktails at Stanley Park, Fullerton Cove. Enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and favourite excerpts from opera in the beautiful heritage surroundings of Stanley Park, with the stunning performers Danita Weatherstone (soprano), Genevieve Dickson (mezzo soprano), Iain Henderson (tenor) and Christopher Allan (piano). Tickets are $65. To book visit www.trybooking.com ■ Paint & Sip Pop-Up at the Cheeky Dog, Bannisters. Tickets are $80 and include a 3 hour paint class, glass of house wine or beer with a bowl of pasta. Book your ticket online at www.cheekydogbar.com

JULY MARKET GUIDE EVERY SUNDAY IN JULY ■ Newcastle City Farmers Market at Newcastle Showground, 7am–1pm ■ Lions Club of Adamstown Market, Cnr of Brunker and Glebe Rd, Adamstown, 6:30am–12pm

SATURDAY 9 JULY ■ Hamilton Markets at Gregson Park 9am–2pm

WHAT'S ON AT > 15 JULY, MIMA

Lake Mac

Rebel is a glittering glam rock non-stop circus Bowie party! Strut right up to the Multi-Arts Pavilion mima for a night of glittering glam rock, phenomenal acrobatics and a heart-stopping sideshow. Rebel is a live rock and roll circus tribute to the original rebel, David Bowie. This spectacular experience is inspired by his words: "I want

SUNDAY 10 JULY ■ Lake Macquarie City Farmers Market at Speers Point Park, 7am–1pm

to tart rock up. I don't want to climb out of my fantasies in order to go up on stage — I want to take them on stage with me.” Much more than a tribute show, Rebel is your Bowie fantasies realised. Live music combined with circus and comedy brings to life an incredible body of work and revels in an aesthetic that broke ground and inspired generations. For more information, please visit lakemac.com.au/Events

■ Growers Market at Murray’s, Bobs Farm, 8am–12pm

SATURDAY 16 JULY ■ Warners Bay Markets at Warners Bay Foreshore, 9am–2pm

SUNDAY 24 JULY ■ Lake Macquarie City Farmers Market at Speers Point Park, 7am–1pm

ICE SKATING ON THE GREEN > 9 + 10 JULY, CLUB CHARLESTOWN Club Charlestown will turn their Green into an Ice Skating rink this July! Put on your skates and pivot around the outdoor pop-up arena. Sessions go for 40 minutes and will run every hour from 10am. Skaters can be aged from just 2 so it’s perfect for the whole family! From 7pm the rink will transform into an adult-only event with live music. Day sessions: $12.50 each Adults only night session: $17.50 each

NEWCASTLE CITY

FARMERS MARKET 7AM–1PM EVERY SUNDAY

@ BROADMEADOW SHOWGROUND

NO DOGS

Sorry!

WHAT'S ON | HIGHLIGHTS •

YOUR GUIDE TO NAIDOC WEEK > 3–10 JULY NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia and recognise the unique history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The week is a great opportunity to participate in a range of activities and to support our local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

SUNDAY 3 JULY ■ Snak and Rap at Mallabula Skate Park, Lemon Tree Passage, 11am–1pm. Enjoy music, art, food, fun, community and conversation to engage and connect young people at Mallabula.

IMAGE BY HUNTER VALLEY WINE & BEER FESTIVAL

MONDAY 4 JULY

■ Murrook Family Fun Day at Murrook Cultural Centre, 10am–2pm. There will be family fun activities, entertainment and a BBQ to enjoy. ■ Torres Strait Islander Flag Workshop at Newcastle Art Gallery, 10.30am–3pm. Young artists will enjoy a mini tour of the exhibition WARWAR: The Art of Torres Strait. Learn about the Torres Strait Islander flag, designed by the late Mr Bernard Namok, then create your own TSI flag using coloured sand, a small canvas and glue. To book visit www.nag.org.au. (5–9 July)

■ Koori Kin Family History Yarn at Raymond Terrace Library, 10am–12pm. Join Melissa Jackson and Kerry-Ann Tape, First Nations family history specialists, for the Connecting Culture: Tracing Ancestors workshop for mob. (Also on Friday 8 July). ■ NAIDOC Week Storytime at Toronto Library, 10.30am–11.15am. Celebrate NAIDOC week at Lake Mac’s sharing culture storytime. Join Elder Uncle Amos from Muurrung Marai where he will share Awabakal Language through song, dance and puppets. Suitable for ages 4–10 years. To book visit www.lakemac.com.au/ Events-directory

WEDNESDAY 6 JULY

TUESDAY 5 JULY

■ Nelson Bay Fun Day at Nelson Bay Foreshore, 10am–2pm. Enjoy family fun activities, entertainment and a BBQ at the Murrook Cultural Centre.

■ NAIDOC Week March & Flag Raising Ceremony at Raymond Terrace War Memorial to Council Administration Building, 8am.

■ NAIDOC Mutimedia Art Display at MAP mima, Speers Point, 10.30am–3pm. See an amazing multimedia display of artworks produced by local school students during

workshops with respected Aboriginal artist Saretta Fielding. These artworks will inform designs that will be applied to the Fernleigh Awabakal Shared Track (FAST). Families can also enjoy artmaking activities in the grounds of MAP mima. (6–7 July)

THURSDAY 7 JULY ■ Cultural Activities at Karuah Community Hall, 10am–1pm.

FRIDAY 9 JULY ■ Wash My Soul in the River’s Flow at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Civic Cinema will show a film that celebrates the love, lives and creative collaboration of artists Archie Roach and Ruby Hunter as they prepare and perform at the 2004 concert of Kura Tungar. Tickets are free however you do need to reserve your seat. To book tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au.

SATURDAY 10 JULY ■ NAIDOC Week Celebrations at Newcastle Art Gallery, 10.30am–3pm. The program includes a NAIDOC themed Art Cart and roving artist talk by local Torres Strait Islander artist Toby Cedar.

NEXT MARKET

Saturday 9th July 9am to 2pm

Hamilton Markets at Gregson Park Hamilton Markets 12

• WHAT'S ON | HIGHLIGHTS

Saturday 16th July 9am to 2pm GREG

SON P ARK

AY ERS B WARNESHORE FOR

Warners Bay Markets Warners Bay Markets

STROUD’S ANNUAL BRICK & ROLLING PIN COMPETITION > 9 JULY, STROUD SHOWGROUND, COWPER ST, STROUD

CREDIT NYOMI AUBREY PHOTOGRAPHY

FLEETING – THE LUMINOUS LANDSCAPES OF JOHN MORRIS > 1–10 JULY, THE OWENS COLLECTIVE

Who will be crowned Australia’s biggest tosser? Bricks and pins will be thrown in the ultimate family day out, Stroud’s annual Brick and Rolling Pin competition. A day filled with chuckers galore and chockers with activities and entertainment! Watch the menfolk bowl a brick weighing five pounds (2 and a bit kilograms), while women launch a two and a half pound rolling pin (1.1kg), and the kids get

Acclaimed Newcastle artist, John Morris, has announced a new exhibition, Fleeting, on show at The Owens Collective from 1 July with the opening event on Saturday 2 July. The long-awaited exhibition features atmospheric paintings of the Hawkesbury River landscape - subtle studies in light and shade with a haunting, ephemeral beauty that reveals itself slowly to the observer, marking the passage of time and evoking an emotional response. On visits to the Hawkesbury, Morris would rise at 5am to bear witness to a silver, foggy landscape shaded by the escarpments and within half an hour, as the sun began to rise, it would burn off the fog creating flames of dancing mist in shafts of white light. “I was struck by the ephemeral nature of what I was seeing. One minute it was there and the next, it was gone. It was etched in my consciousness, and I became obsessed

to catapult a rubber chook – all in an attempt to be crowned 2022 biggest tosser! Aside from the fun and community camaraderie this fun event provides, Stroud’s Showground will be bursting with market, craft and food stalls, activities and entertainment for every family member. In the dedicated children’s space there will be face painting, amusement rides and a variety of fun games. United Ford Owners Club will also have an impressive collection of 150 cars on show, providing a walk down memory lane for Ford lovers! Tickets are available at the gate. Adult $10 / Child $5 / Family $25 Visit www.stroudbrickthrowing.com.au to find out more.

with capturing these moments in time, their transience and precariousness,” said Morris. A leading light in the art education sector of Newcastle for over 25 years, Morris was one of the head teachers at the Newcastle Art School at TAFE. His website lists countless exhibitions and awards with the most recent being shortlisted in the 2022 Muswellbrook Art Prize and being a finalist in the 2019 Moran Portrait Prize. He is also well represented in public collections and is a highly respected artist. Catch this exhibition while you can because as its title suggests – Fleeting – is only showing for two weeks. Buyers will also need to hurry, as Morris’s work is likely to sell out. OPENING NIGHT Saturday 2 July 6pm–9pm GALLERY HOURS 11am–4pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday (two weekends only). LOCATION 101 Maitland Rd, Islington

s t e G t I s A h s e r As F Wickham Newcastle ◆ Swansea ◆ Tacoma

www.fishcoop.com.au | Follow us on Facebook WHAT'S ON | HIGHLIGHTS •

SPY V SPY

WHAT’S ON Sunday Sessions at MAC Various Dates Grab a drink and enjoy some live music and artmaking at the Museum of Art and Culture’s Sunday Sessions. Museum of Art and Culture Lake Macquarie, yapang

Curious Kids:

Fun School Holiday Experiments 13 July Feed your children’s curious minds with fun experiments, including slime making, creating sherbet and learning to do secret drawings and messages. Wangi Library Creative Hub

REBEL: A David Bowie Circus Rock Tribute 15 – 16 July Join us for a live rock and roll circus tribute to the original REBEL David Bowie. 15 July & 16 July. Multi-Arts Pavilion (MAP mima) Lake Macquarie

Missing, Presumed Dead – Mark Tedeschi talks true crime 16 July Mark Tedeschi will talk about his latest book, and the double murder case that shocked Australia. Rathmines Theatre, nawayiba

When attending events in Lake Macquarie, remember to stay COVID safe keep your distance, practice safe hygiene and if you are feeling unwell stay at home. Please note that events may be subject to change at short notice.

Discover more of what’s on in Lake Mac at

lakemac.com.au/whatson 14

intouch contributor

On The Music Scene MEL MURRAY PSM Publicity

YOU CAN SAVE LIVE MUSIC IN NEWCASTLE If you love live music, this is a Call To Action! Sound Station Music and Art Festival will bring together some of the best bands that Newcastle has ever produced to save the live music scene that created their legacy. Never before has our local live music industry and live music venues been under threat the way they are right now. Ongoing residential development and antiquated interventions mean our live music venues are in real trouble. Unless we show that live music matters and is something we are willing to come out to support, we could lose it. This is your chance to be counted. Don't just love live music - become part of the reason it still exists for future generations. The way it did for you. The Newcastle Live Music Taskforce is the driving force behind this event. The task force was created to advocate for better legislation around live music to ensure venues can continue showcasing the bands and artists we love so much. Legislative changes like the creation of

'Entertainment Precincts' would prioritise businesses like live music venues in designated CBD areas. We need to show the powers that be that live music matters, and nothing speaks louder than a Newcastle crowd! What better way to make that happen than host a free all-ages event with mouthwatering food trucks, art exhibitions and a stellar line-up of Newcastle talent. The diverse line-up of artists at Sound Station Music & Arts Festival includes The Screaming Jets, Spy V Spy, Dv8, Eat Your Heart Out, The Porkers, The Blues Bombers, Grace Turner Band, Amy Vee, Turpentine Babycino, Kookshill, WELL?, House of Refuge, Phoenix Pritchard, Piper Butcher and the winner of Sound Search Band Comp winner. It's all happening at The Station on Sunday, 28 August. Head to www.stickytickets.com. au to register for your free tickets and be the reason we save live music in the City of Newcastle.

Discover more of what’s on at Catapult at www.catapultdance.com.au Catapult Dance Choreographic Hub, 880 Hunter St, Newcastle West

Jasmin Sheppard

Propel Choreographic Residency Showing, 19–20 August

A large scale, multi-generational performance on film, focused on stories of where the land meets the sea, and the landscapes across our region through dance, film and music.

27 & 28 August Watch the next generation of choreographers aged 15 – 21 present their new works across a series of heats and finals with a jury of professional choreographers.

Come and view First Nations artist: Jasmin Sheppard’s creative process and a showing of her latest work in development, followed by a Q&A with this exceptional artist and cast of four cross cultural artists.

Catapult’s professional company presents Grappling for the Edge. Experience a powerful evening of physical, gritty, raw, text-driven, professional dance theatre. Grappling For The Edge 29 & 30 September, Civic Theatre

RTO: 90020

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See You at The Civic!

THERE'S AN ABUNDANCE OF GREAT SHOWS TO ENJOY AT THE CIVIC THEATRE, PLAYHOUSE AND CITY HALL THIS WINTER!

THE SAPHIRES

In July, we are presenting the world premiere of Creativity, a new work by Stray Dogs Theatre Co. Writer and Director Carl Caulfield describes the show as a satire with music and comedy with some very dramatic moments. It's set within a music Conservatorium that is facing radical change and confronting all kinds of challenges to survive. It's about inspirational teachers battling an institution that doesn't fully understand or appreciate what it does. The play will resonate with Newcastle audiences as it reflects what is happening to the Humanities and raises provocative questions about the future of the arts in a digitised world. If music and lunch sound good, Live at Lunch Divas on Bastille Day is for you! Celebrate the music of France with French classical and cabaret opera star soprano Amelia Farrugia, French knight Flutist Jane Rutter, and acclaimed pianist Donna Balson. This fabulous

trio of Aussie Divas perform best-loved French arias songs and solos for voice, flute and piano. Enjoy the concert and then join the stars of the show for a French-themed lunch in the Cummings Room in City Hall. The Sapphires, written and directed by Tony Briggs, is a multi-award-winning musical play inspired by the remarkable true story of the writer's mother. Set in the heady days of the late 60s, a quartet of talented young singers from a remote aboriginal mission are discovered and guided by a kind-hearted, soul-loving manager. The Sapphires is an uplifting Australian classic, full of comedy, heart and romance, together with unforgettable soul music. Beyond haircuts and beard trims, the Barber of Seville is the city's matchmaking maestro! Almaviva is wealthy, stealthy, and head over heels. Rosina is witty, pretty and equally smitten. She's also betrothed. They need a plan. Time to call on: Fi-ga-ro! Figaro! Figaro! The stage is set for comic chaos and irrepressibly funny characters. Rossini's most famous 'opera buffa' is a musical masterpiece with a storyline that would be equally at home in a Hollywood rom-com. Opera Australia's finest voices assemble with a live orchestra and a local children's chorus, the Hunter Trebles, to deliver an instantly familiar score. See you at the Civic soon!

Junkyard beats and Critical Stages Touring proudly Present

You’ll never look at a cardboard box the same way again!

FRI 15 JUL - 10AM & 1PM CESSNOCK PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE

WINNER

Critic’s Pic

k Sydney Fring e Festival 2018

WALLSEND TOWN A Cut Above The Rest!

Shout Out To Wallsend's Heroes Of Hair! PETA FROM ADITI HAIR

WORDS LIANE MORRIS The Wallsend Town Business Association has over 50 local business members and is one of four identified precincts within the Newcastle Local Government Area that have had Business Improvement Associations established (the others are City Centre, Hamilton and Mayfield). They are independent, not-forprofit organisations that, through a Service Agreement with the City of Newcastle, are responsible for the disbursement of up to $100,000 annually to promote, beautify and develop the local economy of the precinct. The association's vision is to work in collaboration with local businesses for the benefit of the Wallsend precinct to grow economic diversity, support business activity, promote the precinct and create a welcoming place for people to work, visit and live. Chairperson of the Association, Wayne Rogers, believes that like the promotional slogan says, Wallsend is The Place to Be. "There's no need to go further afield - Wallsend has everything

you need right here. Our small village community punches way above its weight," says Wayne. "This month, we want to draw attention to our local hairdressers and barbers. There are several providers in this space within our community, and we want to give them a shout-out." Peta Duncan is one such business owner who has run hair salons in Wallsend for over 15 years. Her current salon, Aditi Hair, is relocating to 71 Nelson Street and being renamed Hair Truss & Co and is due to reopen its doors on 11 July. "The Business Association is a great way for business owners to connect, and all of us who work in the hair industry in Wallsend get along great," said Peta. "The whole pandemic situation has been enlightening. We discovered that we're not 'just' hairdressers. People were desperate to see us during COVID, and it wasn't really about the hair. It's about the mental and physical connection with our clients. Being such an essential part of our little community is special."

If you haven't tried one of the local hairdressers or barbers in Wallsend, there are plenty to choose from. See below for more info. • Aditi Hair (Hair Truss & Co.) www.aditihair.com.au • Julies La Patite www.wallsendtown.com.au/businessdirectory/julies-la-patite-hair-nail-and-beauty-salon/ • Opulence www.opulencehairsalon.com.au • Hairs Rok www.hairsrokofwallsend.com.au • Urban Raw www.facebook.com/urbanrawwallsend • Christiane's www.christianes.com.au/salons/christianes-hairdesign-wallsend/ • Kingsmen www.wallsendvillage.com.au/stores/kingsmen-hair

All Your Hairdresser & Barber Needs in One Place!

With over 200 Businesses and Services, we’ve got something for everyone! Call into Wallsend Town and Check Us Out Today!

Human Nature ON THE ROAD WITH

WORDS LIANE MORRIS AUSTRALIA'S HOMEGROWN HEROES AND HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES HUMAN NATURE HAVE REBOOTED THEIR ACCLAIMED LIVE SHOW PLANS, RETURNING TO THE AUSTRALIAN STAGE WITH LIVE 2022 REBOOTED – PEOPLE GET READY, AGAIN. This new show has brought together the very best elements of the covid-postponed Good Good Life tour, and People Get Ready AAA tour into one new, amalgamated show - touring capital cities and regional centres across Australia right now. They've already soldout this month's Newcastle Civic Theatre performance on Friday, 22 July. Human Nature began in 1989 in the suburbs of Sydney as 4Trax, a high school vocal group consisting of the same members that still comprise the group today, more than 30 years later – brothers Andrew and Mike Tierney, Phil Burton and Toby Allen. They got their big break with a Sony record deal (and a name change to Human Nature) in 1996 and released their first album, 'Telling Everybody', which quickly became one of the highest-selling Australian debut albums ever – eventually reaching 4x platinum status and selling over 300,000 copies. Since then, they have released 13 studio albums, four of which went to number one in Australia, garnering 27 platinum awards, 19 top 40 singles and five Top 10 hits worldwide, with album sales in excess of 2.5 million in Australia alone. In 2005, they released an album called 'Reach Out: The Motown Record' which topped the charts, sold over 420,000 copies in Australia and was to alter the trajectory of their career. 'Reach Out' was followed in 2006 by 'Dancing in the Street – The Songs Of Motown II', which also hit the number 1 spot. The final album in their Motown trilogy, 'Get Ready', was released in 2007 and saw Human Nature joining forces with some of the stars of Motown, including Mary Wilson of The Supremes, Martha Reeves, The Temptations, and Smokey Robinson. The association with Smokey Robinson led them to a residency in Las Vegas at the Imperial Palace, where they performed five nights a week for four years. This was the first in a number of Vegas residencies that saw the band and their families living in the States for prolonged periods and building their global fan base. Human Nature has toured with some of the music industry's biggest names, including Michael Jackson and Celine Dion, as well as

performing to over a billion television viewers worldwide during the Opening Ceremony of the 2000 Sydney Olympics. They also had the privilege of performing on the Oprah Winfrey Show during her Australian TV special. In 2019, each member of Human Nature was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) and inducted into the ARIA Hall Of Fame. Today, the albums and the hits keep coming, and these stalwarts of the Australian music industry continue to entrance audiences the world over. We caught up with the band to ask them about touring, what's coming next and life in general. The covid pandemic has obviously kept you guys off the road with postponed tour dates. So where did you spend the covid? Were you stateside or in Australia? Andrew Tierney: It was a crazy time. I spent most of the time at my home with family in Vegas. We tried to do a few runs of shows, but each one got shut down, so that was tough. Instead, I channelled my creativity into writing my first children's storybook, which is out now called FINDING BUNNY … it's so cute! Between that, being a dad, and still always writing songs, it was a time to reconnect with what's really important, and I know I will never forget that. We know that Phil Burton has decided to settle back in Australia and not return to the States for any Vegas residencies. So does that make this tour all the more special? Will he still record with you in the future? And what will he be doing here in Australia? Andrew Tierney: I think the two years of uncertainty all together make this tour special, to be honest. We have done a handful of shows with the three of us in the States without him and have some more coming up this year. It's just a new phase for Human Nature, and we will, maybe more than ever, just take things one step at a time. We aren't sure what we will do next as a record. We are just enjoying knowing people are excited to see the live shows. Phil Burton: Hopefully, you will see me popping up in various roles in the entertainment and media industry, whether it's stints on radio or TV or doing some small shows of my own. There will also be some Human Nature work for me, of course - we always have something exciting coming up in Australia, and there's never a shortage of planning jobs there. I'll be keeping busy for sure! Continued next page ▶ 19

(Continued) Any plans to return to Australia permanently like Phil has? Michael Tierney: I always love returning to Australia, and it will always feel like home. At the moment, my daughter is attending school in the US, and we have more opportunities over there for performing also, so I'll be returning to Vegas at the end of this tour. Not sure what will happen in the future, but for now, I'm happy living with my family in Las Vegas. Toby Allen: I want people to know how much I miss Australia. Living overseas for the past 13 years may have people thinking we've let go of Australia in some way. Quite the opposite - my time away has only deepened my love for home and also has me thinking about wanting my kids to be able to have an experience of life in Australia as I did growing up. Talk to us about family, being on the road, the challenges and the joys…. Phil Burton: Being on the road has changed so much for us since we started - on our first tours, we would more than likely head out to a club after every show for an after-party. We all had partners who would often travel (and party) with us, but we were all 10 feet tall and bulletproof back then, of course, so we could bounce back and be ready for another show very quickly. These days we are all more "experienced", shall we say, so the partying has basically disappeared - and I don't think any of us miss it that much if we're honest! Now we 20

are more likely to be calling home to speak to the kids before bedtime. Our families still come on the road with us a lot, and it's lovely to share the experience with them. Andrew Tierney: This tour is very intimate and relaxed, which is so fun to perform. We get to bring the audience into our world and our lives over the past three decades tell some stories and sing our much-loved songs. I'm really enjoying doing the new songs, actually - it feels like creatively, we still have something to say, which is awesome. Have you guys had a chance to explore Newcastle before? Any Newcastle stories to share? Michael Tierney: Yes - we've been to Newcastle many times and always love doing shows there. Walking around Newcastle Beach and enjoying some of the great beachside cafés is always one of my favourite things to do. You guys do a lot of covers – in your own wonderful style, of course – but do you ever want to step away from that? Toby Allen: We started our career releasing original songs, and yes, we've made quite a departure from that over the last 15 years. In the last couple of years, it has been very exciting to revisit recording original songs with our Good

Good Life EP. The pandemic hasn't made it the easiest to release these songs as we would normally, but we are lucky to be able to include them in our national tour. It feels awesome to be changing our musical direction yet again, and I know our fans are also energised by our new music. Which is your all-time favourite Human Nature album, and why? Toby Allen: That is a tough question. Our first album holds a special place in my heart because it gave us such an amazing introduction to our Aussie audience, and so many of the songs on it, we still love performing to this day - 25 years later. Reach Out the Motown Record also is a favourite. It really changed our career in such a big way. Not only because it was such a well-received album, but it also opened the door to our 13-year run of shows in Las Vegas.

understanding the importance of imagination, and they continually inspire me to be the best version of myself I can be. You guys are like the quiet achievers of the Australian music industry – inducted into the Aria Hall of Fame, awarded Medals in the Order of Australia, and multi-platinum albums over a long career – how has the music industry changed since you started out? Did you ever think you'd be doing what you're doing? How is it different to your original dreams? Phil Burton: Awards are always a strange thing. You never work hard with the end goal in mind being the receiving of an award. Having said that, when the awards come, they are a wonderful surprise and something to cherish. The music industry now is almost unrecognisable from when we started. The internet changed the entire game. I think we were lucky to start our career before then, as the sheer breadth of choices people have to listen to now has made it so much harder for good artists to have their work discovered amongst all the mediocre stuff that floods the market. It's pretty amazing that we are still going strong and still loving what we are doing after 33 years - I'm sure looking back, our original dreams were to become global superstars. We may not have gone all the way to the top, but we have had some amazing success; we've travelled all over the world and performed in some iconic venues with some of the biggest artists in history and had a great time doing it.

Also, who knows? If we'd managed to reach the peak, we may have burned out a long time ago and wouldn't still be doing what we love today. Michael Tierney: I'm proud of all the things over the years, personally (my family) and professionally. Getting presented with The Medal of the Order of Australia was a very proud moment for me and made me appreciate what we've contributed to the Australian entertainment industry. It feels great to be still out now performing and doing what we love. Who inspires you and why? Musically and in life…. Toby Allen: There are a lot of people who inspire me. Obviously, music has been a huge inspiration over the years, with artists like George Michael, Michael Jackson and Donny Hathaway being some of my favourites. But behind all of that is my family. My husband Darren is a uniquely gifted artistic force. He is constantly working on various projects ranging from more traditional theatre to more obscure endeavours. His drive for his work comes from a passion for art that informs, surprises and nourishes the community, often providing a voice for emerging artists and those with important stories for us to hear. Our kids, Harvey and Roxane, are no less a force of their own. They constantly surprise me and teach me important lessons in

What advice would you give to young performers just starting out? Phil Burton: Make sure you find yourself a good team to work with you. It's not as easy as it sounds. You need people around you who you trust and who see themselves becoming successful WITH you (not by using you to feather their own nest). Always allow yourself to be guided by those people, but never lose sight of who you truly are in the process. The most important thing is the ability to look back and know that despite the result, you really believed in what you were doing. After this Australian tour, three out of the four of you are scheduled to do a Vegas residency from August through to November. What's in store for Human Nature after the Vegas residency? Andrew Tierney: One day at a time. I'm hoping the tour and shows will inspire new creativity in me as a writer and us as a group - so that being said, we'll have to keep you all posted. Human Nature is performing live at the Newcastle Civic Theatre on Friday, 22 July. Visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au. For more information and tickets. And for more info about the tour, visit www.humannaturelive.com/tour. 21

GARY PINTO

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Riding high on the release of his new album Sam Cooke the Music, acclaimed singer/songwriter Gary Pinto has announced a series of solo shows that will see him perform the songs that defined a generation and became part of the American songbook, including a gig at Lizotte's on 6 August (book at www.lizottes.com.au). One of Australia's finest vocalists, Gary Pinto is best known as a founding member of ARIA nominated group CDB (Hook Me Up, Hey Girl, Let's Groove) and for the time he has spent onstage and in the studio with artists such as Guy Sebastian, Jimmy Barnes, Christine Anu and Taylor Dayne. "I am so excited to be bringing the songs from my new album live to audiences across Australia," said Gary.

"This year has been a special year – with the release of this new album and now, to have the opportunity to play them live is a blessing." With a career full of highlights, Gary returned to the recording studio this last year to record some of the most beloved songs from the American singer Sam Cooke. Sam Cooke The Music is Gary's unique tribute to an American known as the 'King of Soul' and a key figure in the American Civil Rights movement - who died in December 1964 at age 33. Gary will also be touring with Guy Sebastian on the Higher Ground tour. The national outdoor concert series is touring regional areas across Australia from September 2022. Gary is joining Vika and Linda Bull, Jarryd James, Busby Marou and The Faders – and of course, headliner Guy Sebastian on this special concert tour. The tour includes Roche Estate Hunter Valley Saturday, 5 November. Tickets are on sale now via the Ticketek website.

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

STAR OF THE MONTH CANCER 22 JUNE – 22 JULY The cosmos slows down just long enough for you to take a birthday break. Watch, too, for an opportunity to make the best of your already vivid imagination. Dreams take on more clarity and meaning. After September, Venus introduces a new friendship or romance. Update your image, and don't settle for the same old, same old. Passions look set to soar as old or new love promises delight. For the happily coupled, too, love promises greater intimacy. At the same time, Cancerians can openly flaunt their professional qualities. Earnings increase but so does expenditure. Spend your cash, by all means - but avoid excessive credit.

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST For some time, Saturn has made your life hell with its orders to wait… and wait, frustrating your actions. Still, you've weathered it well, and, finally, the delays start to lift. Likewise, if love feels distant, expect much closer contact. So go ahead, Leo - have more fun, but also ask what you really want from relationships. Just don't count too much on others for material backing. This month, financial independence is a must.

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER If you're feeling sad, perhaps you've been missing passion or romance. Not so through July. Radiating sensuality, you can't fail to be the centre of attention. The trick is to take a break from others' relentless grief. Their web of discontent prevents your own self-care. Surround yourself with beauty and those closest to your heart. Love changes everything, as many Librans now rediscover.

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH You're in love, or are you? Certainly, there's a strong fascination there, but it could be based on wishful thinking. You may think you have found your soulmate. Then again, maybe not. That's not to say that your mutual magnetism isn't real; just take it slow and allow enough time to see each other with a cooler, more clinical eye - preferably before you buy matching wedding bands.

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER Feisty Mars and Uranus throw you a healthy dose of happiness this month. With this bravado also extending to romance, your newfound confidence can't help but be sexually alluring - hence the hike in potential suitors. Professionally, you should be setting new targets and self-promoting until you get results. Network, Scorpio. Give it your all, and soon you'll be rewarded with financial and career advances.

ARIES 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL You might think you know exactly what's coming in July, but not so. The winds of change bring unpredictable financial trends. If you've been thrifty, watch out now for impulsive spending sprees - especially early on in the month. Or, if you've been blowing your bank balance like a high roller, rein in your spending to regain equilibrium. Soon, you should be safely out of the red.

SAGITTARIUS 22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER With a significant other choosing a life change this month, Sagittarians could feel uncomfortable about their lack of control. If your partner or a friend is in the mood to step away, just remember - it takes two to tango, so there's no point lingering alone on the dance floor. At work, too, upheaval seems inevitable. You may feel hopelessly dragged by the winds of fate, but how much of a victim you are is up to you. CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY Home and personal concerns monopolise your time this month. For many, recent times have felt lonely, so a sense of belonging has become important. For singles, the lure to coupledom may become more insistent; meanwhile, duos rekindle commitment. Late July is also about financial growth. Thanks to well-placed planets, expenses are more easily met, and luxuries become more affordable.

TAURUS 21 APRIL – 20 MAY July presents a paradox. Even when work demands so much, maverick romantic thoughts stray towards love and sensual satisfaction. Keep in mind that you don't have to act on every fantasy. As much as you love carnal thrills, you might find yourself outside your comfort zone. Don't worry; this is an out-of-the-ordinary situation. Revel in it while it lasts. Be bold, Taurus. GEMINI 21 MAY – 21 JUNE With Venus settled in your financial sector, this delightfully generous planet declares war on scrimping and saving. Breathe a sigh of relief as money matters finally start to ease. There is a catch, though: not everything will turn out to be as good as it appears. If something instinctively feels too good to be true, it probably is. Good judgement is the key. Check your health, too. Sleep and a sensible diet are vital.

TANYA OBREZA was born

VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER July finds Virgos more determined than ever. You're on a professional and creative bender that can't be suppressed. Don't panic if a nearest-and-dearest appears out of sorts. At times, we all need our private space, but it won't be a lonely month. There are still plenty of special moments to be had. Singles are due for a shift of status - but are you really ready to commit? 24

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY There's much to be said for expediency - so what if it puts the odd nose out of joint? Tired of endless debates and exploring options, you're ready to choose a direction and follow it. Once initial obstacles are overcome, there should be surprisingly little resistance to your plans. The next step may be a change in your work environment. You could also find fruition in something that started around two years ago.

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

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If you could package up the best from all major wine-producing regions of a the world and put E CHANGED - Please add it in one place, it would be the Hunter Valley. le "New Issue Out Now" with It's Australia's premier wine region, where the age of the new cover pleasures of eating and drinking are celebrated daily - and it's right on our doorstep. When you think of Australian wine, you think of the Hunter Valley. This beautiful region has been built on 190 years of passion and dedication to the craft, producing many world-

class wines. However, there is more to the Hunter Valley than wine, and with a wide array of accommodation, dining options and activities on offer, the Hunter Valley Wine Country is the perfect short break and romantic get-away. Surrounded by the rich bounty of the region's food, wine, gourmet produce, craft beers, ciders, distilled spirits and other speciality beverages, it's difficult to imagine that the world is largely unaware of the depth of the

region's gastronomic experiences. Whether it's lovingly made sourdough, fresh hand-made cheese, locally picked olives, locally farmed lamb or perch, vibrant Semillons or a robust Shiraz – we are spoilt for choice. For generations, people from all over the world have travelled to the Hunter Valley to experience its exceptional food and wine experiences - its greatest asset. Step inside restaurants renowned for their exciting food, warm hospitality and stunning locations, and experience the culinary creativity of some of the best chefs in the country, if not the world. Of course, visiting a cellar door too is an experience in itself, and you are likely to find yourself chatting to the winemaker and several family members, often second or thirdgeneration vignerons. While the Hunter Valley is renowned for its wine, its also become known for producing award-winning specialty beverages, with several breweries and distilleries establishing themselves in the region and serving up an exciting and creative range of local craft beers and small-batch premium spirits that include vodka, gin and liqueur. With so much to see, taste, and do - you will leave wanting to return again next weekend!

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• FAMILY & COMMUNITY

Following a COVID-19 infection, you may have various symptoms that linger for three months or even longer. When this occurs, it is called ‘Long Covid’. Long Covid impacts everyone differently, but it eventually resolves over time and doesn’t appear to be linked to the severity of your illness when you first contracted COVID-19. However, many of the symptoms of Long Covid affect your ability to eat well. HOW TO HELP YOUR RECOVERY Eating when you’re unwell can be a challenge. Your body needs a wide range of energy, protein, fibre, vitamins, minerals and fluid to assist with recovery. Eating well increases your energy levels, helps your muscles rebuild and maintains your immune system. • Choose carbohydrate foods such as potatoes or wholegrain bread, long-grain rice and wholemeal pasta that release energy more slowly and are high in fibre: these are known as low glycaemic index foods and are helpful when struggling with fatigue. • Aim for five serves of vegetables and two serves of

•

fruit each day. Remember that frozen, tinned or dried varieties all count and are an excellent alternative to fresh produce. Opt for protein sources like beans, pulses, nuts and seeds, fish, eggs and white meat. Choose red meat and processed meat less often and in small portions only. Include fish twice a week, especially oily types such as salmon and sardines. Oily fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for our brain and cardiovascular health. Milk, cheese, yoghurt and fortified dairy alternatives are good sources of protein and calcium, which help keep muscles and bones healthy. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water, milk and other sugar-free drinks.

TOP TIPS • Plan ahead, keep easy, quick snacks, meals and nourishing drinks on hand. • Eat regularly and avoid restrictive diets. • Opt for a nutritious, balanced diet and a diverse range of plant-rich foods. • Aim to keep a stable, healthy weight. • Be kind to yourself. Eating can be difficult when you are unwell. Small changes work best.

intouch contributor

On Tour With the Kid CHLOE O'SULLIVAN

HUMANE SOCIETY In my family, voting is a very big deal. From the year I turned 18, we would go in person, often as a family. I have always numbered every box below the line because, as my mother taught me, some people actually deserve to be placed last. The process has become longer and longer each election cycle, but it always made me feel like I had earned my democracy sausage at the end. This year, however, on Election weekend, I was going to be away from home and needed to do a postal vote. It was a straightforward process, but I must admit I missed the ceremony. I spent the day in a tiny little town in the Clarence Valley. Glenreagh is home to around 900 people, and the centre of town is The Golden Dog Hotel. This particular weekend as the wheels of democracy turned in the community hall across the road, the pub hosted the most Aussie festival ever. Mulletfest. They were the most sensational crowd. From flowing locks on the tiniest contestants to a father and grown son with matching and, I must say, spectacular mullets. Very brave men and women, including the hotel's licensee, Steph, who all had brand new mullets cut in

on the day to raise money for the Mark Hughes Foundation. When the auction items were on the block, including a one-of-a-kind bottle of Bundaberg Rum, the lively crowd had deep pockets. In a very Aussie moment, the Rookie winner, with flowing red hair who was one of our freshly cut mullets, said she would keep her new cut till she found a husband. Eager to help in that department, all the single men gathered in the centre of the room. In lieu of flowers or a garter, we got a blushing hopeful bride to throw an empty can of Bundaberg Alcoholic Ginger Beer backwards over her head, and one young man was very happy to catch it. While all this fun was happening, I could see all the political party signs set up outside the polling place across the road. I could see my fellow Australians going in and out, and I wondered what factored into their decisions and if there would be a change in government this time around? I knew that no matter how invested I was, for one family (the Nadesalingam family - who were still in community detention in Western Australia), the election results would be life-changing.

IMAGES: PAUL HUMBER

The results came in earlier than expected, Scomo had conceded, and just as that news filtered through the pub, we learned that an anonymous $5,000 had been given over the bar to the Mark Hughes Foundation. As the band packed up, they broke into a cappella version of Lean on Me as I stood there and hugged the kid and sang along. Compassion and the Aussie spirit felt like they had won the night. Our news screens were filled with horrific news from Uvalde, Texas three days later. An 18-year-old legally purchased an assault rifle, fatally shot 19 children and two teachers, and wounded 17 others. This happened in a town the size of Singleton. I, like everyone, was heartbroken. But, I was also thankful that even the most conservative side of our political system did what was required to ensure that atrocities such as this were not an everyday reality in our country. It seems such an obvious and simple solution. Surely the lives of children matter more than greed and ego. Mulletfest's next heat will be held at The Commercial Hotel in Dubbo on 20 August. For more information, visit www.mulletfest.com.au. FAMILY & COMMUNITY •

Wallsend's Heritage Celebrated with Modern Mural already spoken to the owner of the building Wallsend Town Business Association has collaborated with local mural organisation Up&Up Inspirations and It Stands Out (Melbourne) under consultation with Wallsend's Heritage Group and the property owner to design a largescale mural on the side of local MP Sonia Hornery's office in Nelson St Wallsend. Up&Up Inspirations were approached by the Wallsend Town Business Association, who had

with the idea to transform this large blank wall with a colourful mural. The owner's only request was that the mural represent the history of the coal industry in the area. With this information, the artists approached the Wallsend Heritage Group Inc, which presented a series of photographs coupled with information related to the history of Wallsend. In 2024, Wallsend celebrates 150 years of becoming a municipality, and this is a modern way to honour one of Newcastle's most heritage-rich and proud precincts.

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• FAMILY & COMMUNITY

"One important piece of information communicated to the artist was that many people in Wallsend were disappointed that Peter Lewis's 1981 mural was no longer there. Peter's mural was loved by many, and his great work heavily inspired this design," said Wallsend Town Business Association Chair Wayne Rogers. The mural was delivered under the City of Newcastle Special Business Rate Program, with additional funding provided by the Wallsend Town Business Association for completion. "The advocacy of our Business Improvement Associations in engaging with business owners to activate their precincts is vital in supporting Newcastle's thriving business communities such as Wallsend," said Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Cr Nuatali Nelmes. "Special Business Rates (SBR) funding is used for promoting, beautifying and developing our business precincts, delivering innovative and creative projects that directly benefit businesses by attracting visitation and making Newcastle's local centres even better places to eat, drink and shop. Congratulations to Wallsend Town Business Association on delivering this wonderful mural project as part of City of Newcastle's SBR program."

Sage (Female) 1 year

Little Ritchie is a gorgeous brown tabby cat. Tabbies are known for their playful and friendly personalities, and Ritchie is no different. He loves a good rumble with the other kittens in care, is adventurous, and can’t get enough of his toys. He’s a bit shy at first but will come out of his shell with a little patience. The way to Ritchie’s heart is through his stomach, so keep an eye on your dinner! Ritchie is the perfect addition to any family, but we think he’ll thrive in a quiet home with another cat or a cat-friendly dog. If you are looking for an absolute snuggle bug, look no further, Sage is the girl for you. Sage is a loving girl who thrives on attention and being around her humans. Sage is an active girl and loves going for a walk. All she wants is to be part of the family.

If you want to know more about Ritchie, Sage and the other cats and dogs waiting for their forever homes, visit www.dogrescuenewcastle.com.au

MATESHIP SAVES LIVES Newcastle Men's Shed WORDS LIANE MORRIS

"Men don't talk face to face; they talk shoulder to shoulder." Professor Barry Golding, Australian Men's Shed Association Patron It's a well-known fact that there is a mental health crisis in the country today, and in Australia, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women. According to Beyond Blue, seven men die by suicide daily in Australia. This is a shocking statistic made worse by the fact that men are much less likely to seek help. There is, however, a global movement that had its humble beginnings right here in the Newcastle region that is working to change that – one cup of tea (or coffee) at a time. The Men's Shed movement sprung up almost simultaneously in a number of locations around Australia in the late 1990s. In Newcastle, Liz McDonald, Centacare Community Development Manager of the Maitland Newcastle Catholic Diocese at the time, was asked by the Director to establish a Men's Shed in Windale, which she did. She went on to found the Maitland and Singleton Men's Sheds, then with her team, began lobbying the government to establish a peak body.

"That happened in 2010 when the Rudd Labor Government acknowledged Men's Sheds in addressing social isolation and men's health and wellbeing as part of their National Male Health Policy. There were about 250 Sheds at the time," said Liz. "We went on to also help establish the international body, and we now operate out of the Newcastle CBD." Based on the concept of 'mateship saves lives', the purpose of a Men's Shed is to improve the mental health and wellbeing of men of all ages. It's to provide men with a purpose, address social isolation, to help them become active and better connected with others and their local community. There are now almost 3,000 Men's Sheds across the world. The Newcastle Men's Shed began life in the old administration building of the BHP in 2014 until it flooded in 2016. Since then, they have made six moves in five years. With the assistance of the late Meg Purser, a tireless supporter of several Newcastle not-forprofit organisations and a communications professional with excellent business networks, the organisation found itself a new shopfront home in Beaumont Street Hamilton, thanks to the Hamilton Business Improvement Association and Westpac Bank. With membership stretching past the 100 mark, this space was not big enough. Some of the members (or shedders as they are known) had been lobbying for two years to get use of an old railway property at New Lambton, and permission was finally granted. The Newcastle Men's Shed is now spread across both

locations, with New Lambton used for larger projects and workshop space and the shopfront at Hamilton to sell small items such as wooden toys, cutting boards and wooden bowls. The Newcastle Men's Shed is a meeting place where men of all ages volunteer to work together on a vast range of projects, most of which are for the good of the community. Although most of the men are retired, men of all ages are welcome. They come from a wide range of backgrounds, including retired tradies, doctors, solicitors, bank managers and labourers. Their work includes making and repairing school benches and restaurant tables, repairing chairs and tables, and making wooden toys and kitchen utensils. They do not promote themselves as a trade organisation and do not compete or take work away from local businesses. Secretary Wayne Grant explains, "We get requests for jobs to be done, and they get posted to the jobs board. Our volunteers check the board regularly and put their hands up for the ones they want to take on. There's always someone keen to do a job. We recently built two outdoor settings for a lady who couldn't find what she wanted elsewhere. She was delighted with the result." "When they first join, our members don't know what to expect. Some have no practical skills, but they're always surprised at what they can achieve once someone takes the time to teach them. There's such enthusiasm and Continued next page ▶ FAMILY & COMMUNITY •

(Continued) positivity. Of course, some blokes just like to natter over a cup of tea or coffee, or they pop in for our Tuesday lunches – they don't have to do jobs at all. It's a great way to reconnect with people and do good work in your local community if you feel like it." The organisation also runs several school mentorship programs where young secondary students are taught a range of skills such as woodworking, welding and fabrication there's even an automotive program. Students are generally around 15 years of age and sometimes wonder whether they are suited to staying at school. The program aims to build the confidence of young people and to help them build skills that may lead to jobs or apprenticeships. "There's a sense of passing on wisdom and the building of mutual respect. We've never had a bad kid yet. There's always a change of attitude and a great vibe." Similarly, young men who need upskilling to improve employment prospects and increase confidence can volunteer and learn from the older shedders. "We've had guys as young as 24 who have been in a bad place when they first come here. Maybe they've lost their job, broken up and had to leave their home. They can come here, have a chat and a cuppa and have a go at helping out on a project. There have been many success stories where the work they've done with us has led to employment and a more positive outlook on life." Another aspect of the work that the Newcastle Men's Shed does is to provide information to support its members. This often 34

• FAMILY & COMMUNITY

takes the form of seminars given by experts on subjects as diverse as suicide prevention, elder abuse, how to use a defibrillator, nutrition and dementia. The organisation relies on grants and funding from Federal and State governments as well as the peak body, Australian Men's Shed Association and several local businesses that include Port of Newcastle, Port Waratah Coal Services, Newcastle Coal Infrastructure Group and more. The Newcastle Men's Shed also supports other causes and organisations, such as Sione's Foundation, founded by ex-Knights player Sione Finefeuiaki to improve living standards and provide a better future for the Tongan community. There is a key focus on disadvantaged, marginalised or isolated children. The shedders collect tools, bedding, computers, clothing and non-perishables to send over in shipping containers.

Newcastle Men's Shed is looking to increase their membership from 110 active members to 200 now that they've established themselves in two new locations and have plenty of room to expand. Their latest project, for which they have received a federal government grant, is to establish a large community garden to grow produce that can be shared with their members and surplus with Oz Harvest. Blokes with green thumbs are encouraged to join in! The best way to get started is to come along and introduce yourself. The shedders will give you a tour of their shed and get to know you. Feel free to visit between 9am–2pm on weekdays, or why not meet at one of their upcoming events – see the website for details. If you wish to become a member, it's open for those aged 18 years and over and costs $30 for the financial year. VISIT: 99 Beaumont Street Hamilton, or Kings Road Access Via Lane Between 143 and 145 Kings Road, Adamstown. MORE INFO: www.newcastlemensshed.com

"You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream – C.S. Lewis."

Meet The Trainer! WORDS ATWEA COLLEGE Meet our exceptional Aged Care and Disability trainer, Trudi Van Vuuren. Trudi started with Atwea in 2021 and trains the Certificate III in Aged Care, Certificate III in Disability and Assist Clients with Medication courses, as well as assisting with traineeships.

Trudi is passionate about providing training that supports the transformation of lives by providing quality education and learning experiences. She embraces diversity and fosters a classroom inclusive of all cultures and languages to support each student's ability to grow and thrive both inside and outside the classroom.

Trudi has had an extensive career where she has worked as learning support in secondary schools for culturally diverse students, and from 2013 to 2017, she was employed as a personal care worker. In 2015, she enrolled at the University of Newcastle to complete a Bachelor of Nursing. At the university, she also worked in sessional tutoring at the Wollotuke Institute, assisting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students with their nursing studies. As a Registered Nurse, she works in Aged Care, Disability, Palliative Care and Regional Immunisations. Trudi has also done volunteer and community work in assisting new immigrants and culturally and linguistically diverse people to settle in. Her experience in working with Atwea is a positive one where she receives excellent support and loves the team approach. The values of integrity, innovation and inclusion drew her to teach at Atwea. In 2021, Trudi won the Alan Melling Memorial Award for her work with our students. English is her second language, and she strives to make her classroom inclusive for all. Trudi delivers engaging classes in a wellorganised learning environment. She maintains the highest level of professionalism whilst building rapport and ensuring her students' needs are at the centre of her delivery.

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www.smilesonhudson.com.au FAMILY & COMMUNITY •

Dentistry: Trend Versus Reality

intouch contributor

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

What do I mean about the basics? Let’s say a 55-year-old male presents at my practice. They’ve, more often than not, been to at least one other dental practice and been provided with a treatment plan that they are dissatisfied with. Sometimes, it is the price. But more often than not, it is about the provision of options and an explanation of the risks and benefits associated with each option. Commonly, the patient comes in with a treatment plan that amounts to between $10K and $30K and is dismayed by the lack of possibilities around the phasing of treatment

Have you been to the dentist lately? Got dental problems? Finding it difficult to get a “real” answer to your questions? Yes, your predicament is not a unique one. And, based on common sense, the correct response should not be too difficult to find? Wrong. The confusion is being driven by a confluence of COVID, staffing shortages and universities focused on research (versus reality results with respect to training their charges) and a drift away from the “basics”.

or spreading of costs. Frequently, the treatment plan revolves around dental implants. But, even more significantly, many of these patients have metabolic issues. Metabolic issues? How does that impact? Typically, any dental implant therapy involves surgery. Surgery involves the healing of bone. Bone healing is acutely linked to the metabolic condition of the patient (metabolic conditions, such as obesity (related to body mass index), diabetes, thyroid conditions, auto-immune conditions – even blood pressure and high cholesterol). To further complicate treatment, many patients require bone grafting procedures in addition to the placement of implants, which requires even more stringent protocols. Is there an alternative? Let’s focus on the basics. Realistic implementation of the basics is not without risk. However, implementing judicious, planned basic treatment is generally difficult to surpass in value. Treating fundamentals with tooth conserving dental care ensures the fundamentals are good irrespective of whether the patient will proceed to exotic treatments or not. Frequently, well-executed minimally invasive dental care will satisfy most patients’ requirements concerning function, cosmetics, comfort and budget.

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

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Community News

(BACK ROW L-R) NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY AUDIENCE COORDINATOR ZANA KOBAYASHI, NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY DIRECTOR LAURETTA MORTON, AND THE CREATOR INCUBATOR FOUNDING DIRECTOR BRADDON SNAPE. (FRONT ROW L-R) YOUTH ADVISORY GROUP MEMBERS BELLE BEASLEY, MOLLY MCNEIL, NICOLE KLAER, AND EMERGING ARTIST HOLLY MACDONALD.

WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR LOCAL COMMUNITY? NEWCASTLE NEW PLAYGROUNDS OPENED AHEAD OF SCHOOL HOLIDAYS Families are celebrating City of Newcastle's ongoing investment in recreational spaces, with two new playgrounds opened in the western corridor and plans for five more across the city unveiled. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes joined residents to officially open upgraded playgrounds at Minmi Reserve and McCauley Park in Tarro as part of City of Newcastle's annual playground improvement program. "Our local parks and playgrounds are places where our community can come together to relax and interact. So I'm delighted that these two upgraded playgrounds at Minmi and Tarro are ready for play in time for the school holidays in July," Cr Nelmes said. "The turnout at our community openings reinforces the important role these public spaces play within local neighbourhoods, which is why we've invested more than $9 million in playground projects during the past five years." To stay up to date with the progress and to find out about works in your neighbourhood, visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/works

DIGITAL PLATFORM CONNECTS YOUTH TO ART Newcastle Art Galley's collection may have been put in storage while the building's longawaited expansion takes place, but that hasn't stopped a passionate group of volunteers from creating new ways for young people to connect with the works of art. The Gallery's Youth Advisory Group has spent the past year working on their Youth to Collection (Y2C) Project. Designed to increase youth engagement with the most significant public art collection in regional Australia, the project kicked off with the creation and publication of six zines. The group are now looking to expand that engagement online with the development of an interactive digital platform and video series that will allow the community to continue to connect with the collection while the Gallery undergoes its $40 million expansion. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said it was fantastic to see these volunteers sharing

LORD MAYOR NUATALI NELMES, CR DR ELIZABETH ADAMCZYK, AND CR DEAHNNA RICHARDSON OFFICIALLY OPEN MINMI RESERVE PLAYGROUND ALONGSIDE CAPTAINS FROM MINMI PUBLIC SCHOOL AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

their passion for the Gallery with other young people. "By doubling the size of the Gallery, significantly increasing the exhibition space and delivering a suite of modern facilities, the $40 million expansion will deliver an upgraded gallery of international standing that will offer a valuable cultural tourism opportunity for Newcastle and the Hunter," Cr Nelmes said. "While the doors of Newcastle Art Gallery are closed for the construction, we are committed to ensuring the community can engage with our collection in as many ways as possible, which is why this innovative project by our Youth Advisory Group is such a fantastic idea. "It's also a testament to the passion and commitment shown by the dedicated volunteers, who have continued to look outside the box to find ways to stay involved with our Gallery throughout this time."

LAKE MACQUARIE NEW EXHIBITIONS TAKE BYTE OF VITAL STEM SUBJECTS New Questacon exhibitions on display at four sites across Lake Macquarie aim to give kids a hands-on introduction to computer programming, algorithms and other STEM concepts. The Byte Wise displays include the main exhibition of a dozen hands-on activities at SEEN@Swansea, and smaller installations at Toronto, Charlestown and Belmont libraries. Lake Macquarie City Council Lifelong Learning Leader Kirrily Anderson said the exhibitions targeted children aged 10+, inspiring their curiosity and confidence and building a greater understanding of 'computational thinking'. "Computational thinking includes things like programming, algorithms, patterns, irrational Continued next page ▶ BUSINESS & FINANCE •

(Continued)

ZOE HIRSCHBICHLER, 10, AT SEEN@SWANSEA QUESTACON EXHIBITION

numbers, measurement, geometry, logic and problem-solving," she said. "The fun, hands-on lessons kids will take away from Byte Wise link directly to maths and digital technologies curriculums taught in primary and high school." The Belmont, Charlestown and Toronto exhibitions each include four stands and are free, while the main SEEN@Swansea with 12 stands and an accompanying Questacon photo display on Mars is open via a gold coin donation. All four Byte Wise sites are open until Sunday, 21 August. For more information, go to lakemac.com.au.

PORT STEPHENS KOALA FUNDING MARKS 20 YEARS OF CONSERVATION IN PORT STEPHENS As the 20th anniversary of the Port Stephens Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management nears closer, Port Stephens Council has secured $845,000 from the NSW Government to reduce koalas being killed or injured by vehicles. Port Stephens Mayor Ryan Palmer says koala protection and conservation has been a top priority for Port Stephens Council for many years, and the recent funding from the NSW Government will have a significant impact on conserving the local koala population. "Our community has an extraordinary relationship with koalas, there aren't many places in the country where you might encounter a koala on a walk around your local neighbourhood, but you can here in Port Stephens," Mr Palmer said. "Protecting koalas and koala habitat is always at the forefront of our strategic planning, and we work hard to balance growth alongside the protection of our local environment, including koala habitat – one of the most essential drawcards for residents and visitors alike. DESTINATION NSW IMAGE: 38

• BUSINESS & FINANCE

"Identifying threats impacting koalas and koala habitat and devising conservation strategies to address these, such as ensuring there are corridors for koalas to move about their habitat safely, is key to our Koala Plan of Management," he added. The NSW Government have undertaken a state-wide investigation into vehicle roadstrike hotspots in NSW, which identified Port Stephens Drive as one of the worst koala roadstrike sites in NSW. Following this, a further study was undertaken to determine options and costs associated with mitigating and preventing koala road strikes along Port Stephens Drive. Group Manager Development Services Steve Peart says the study identified that building a culvert to allow koalas to move under the road and installing exclusion fencing to keep koalas off the road were the most efficient and effective solutions.

"From 2010 to 2020, 89 koala records have been identified along Port Stephens Drive, including 11 vehicle strike fatalities, five vehicle strike injury rescues and 11 rescues," Mr Peart said. "This grant funding from the NSW Government is allowing Council to install 2km fauna-proof fencing on both sides of Port Stephens Drive, retrofit 850 metres of koalaproof fencing to the existing Horizons Golf Course fence, build a 20-metre long box culvert as fauna underpass near the southern boundary of the golf course and add koala pavement painting and roadside signage indicating koala speed zones. "We know our community places strong value on our local environment and the protection of koalas across Port Stephens, and we're confident these measures will have an immediate impact on reducing road strikes on koalas."

July COMMUNITY CALENDAR SATURDAY 9 JULY

■ Maitland Country Women Association

Jumble Sale at CWA Hall 46 Church Street. Maitland, 8:30am to 1:30pm. There will be Bric a Brac, retro items, plants, books, clothing and many more bargains. All funds raised will go towards the Maitland CWA's vital community work in Maitland and surrounding district.

SATURDAY 16 JULY

■ Raise our Voices – Concert for Refugees at the Uniting Church, The Boulevarde, Toronto, 1:30–4:30pm. This acoustic-

folk concert aims at raising awareness of the plight of refugees worldwide. Performers will include duo Sweet Songs and Soft Guitar, trio Tripple Effect, quartet Threepence – and more. Suggested donation: $10 pp, children free. Includes afternoon tea. All monies raised will go to International Aid Agency, Act for Peace. If you are unable to attend, donations may be made through https://challenge. actforpeace.org.au/gloria-peacock. For more information contact Lorraine or Chris Charters (0408) 428 083.

School Holidays

Guide

Winter 2022 MONDAY 4 – FRIDAY 15 JULY 2022 COLDER DAYS TEND TO MEAN MORE HOURS SPENT INSIDE AND MORE PENTUP ENERGY WITH THE KIDS (AND THERE IS NOTHING QUITE AS TERRIFYING AS PENT-UP, BORED CHILDREN LURKING IN YOUR MIDST!) DON'T DESPAIR! CHECK OUT OUR SCHOOL HOLIDAY GUIDE FOR THE BEST LOCAL HITS TO KEEP THE KIDS BUSY AND ENJOY FAMILY TIME THESE HOLIDAYS.

Newcastle Brickfest

NEWCASTLE

Alice's Wonderland – A Most Curious Adventure This intriguing, family-friendly, hands-on science exhibition from Museums Victoria is based on Lewis Carroll's well-known Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Just as Alice's curiosity led her to follow the white rabbit, children are invited to journey down a rabbit hole to explore how they perceive and make sense of the world around them. Activities bring basic science concepts of optics and illusions, word play, physics and maths to life for 3–8-year-olds and their families. WHEN: Until Sunday 10 July. WHERE: Newcastle Museum. COST: Adults $10/Concession $7/Children $5 (3 and over)/Children 2 and Under Free/Family of 4 $25. BOOKINGS: Tickets are available for purchase at the door.

Newcastle Brickfest is not only Newcastle's premier LEGO Fan event but one of Australia's Premier LEGO Fan Events. This is a community event created by local volunteer LEGO fans for LEGO fans of all ages, showcasing some of Australia's best LEGO builders. Our LEGO Master builder's original creations and displays of LEGO themes will impress and inspire kids of all ages. Interact with the exhibitors, asking them questions about their exhibits and LEGO.

WHEN: Saturday 9 July, 3pm to 5pm | Sunday 10 July, 9:30am to 5:30pm. WHERE: Newcastle Jockey Club. COST: $8 per person [Children under 3 are free] or $30 a family [2A/2C or 1A/3C]. There will be limited tickets at the door [$10 each]. BOOKINGS: www.trybooking.com/events/ landing?eid=892665&

Who Ate the Dinosaur? The always popular City Layout is back again with working trains. There will be displays for all family members, plus lots of activities to enjoy. Our Cosplaying friends from the Hunter Heroes and Star Wars Characters are also joining us! Newcastle Brickfest is a family friendly, notfor-profit event that has supported Newcastle charities for the seven years it has run. The John Hunter Children's Hospital Kids Club is this year's Charity Partner.

Join local dinosaur expert Mike Dawson with an exhibition drawn from his amazing collection of museum-quality casts of fossils, focusing on extinct animals known to inhabit wetlands millions of years ago. View the exhibition and discover Who ate the Dinosaur? Meet Mike Dawson, who will be on hand to answer questions and talk about the collection. Create your own fossil. Follow the footprints and track what has come out of the swamp. Visit the Animal House and visitor Centre and meet

See in Newcastle these school holidays

whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au

• SCHOOL HOLIDAYS GUIDE

some relatives of the extinct swamp dwellers. Dip-netting, bird feeding, canoeing, and the children's playground are available as usual. Bring a picnic or eat at the cafe. WHEN: Saturday 2 July to Friday 15 July, 10am to 12noon daily. WHERE: Hunter Wetlands Visitor Centre. COST: Adults and children (4 years +) $7.50. BOOKINGS: www.wetlands.org.au/events/ who-ate-the-dinosaur.

LAKE MACQUARIE

Intensive Learn to Swim These school holiday intensive programs are a great way to improve swimming skills and keep active during the school holidays. They are run as one-week intensive blocks during each school holiday period. Book into a five-day program for one or two weeks and watch your child improve in the water. Reinforcing the skills gained in Learn to Swim classes each day helps your child retain information quicker. Lessons run for 30 minutes, and bookings are made for the same time each day for one week. WHEN: Week one classes will be held Monday 4 July–Friday 8 July; Week two classes will be held Monday 11 July–Friday 15 July. WHERE: Charlestown Swim Centre (PH 49210782) and West Wallsend Swim Centre (PH 4921-0738).

BOOKINGS: Essential - contact your local swim centre to book. COST: $60 for 5 days.

Rock Sloth Puppet Show Join Rock Sloth for a puppet show full of colour, a bit of magic, and lots of fun and silliness along the way. Come along for fun magic routines intertwined with appearances from animal puppets. Be amazed by the balloon twisting; everyone will get to take a balloon creation home. The ticket price includes 45 min show, balloon twisting and colouring activities. Suitable for ages 3–7 years. Adults at children's price. WHEN: Wednesday, 6 July (10:30am to 12pm). WHERE: Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba, 39 Lake Street, Warners Bay. COST: $8pp. BOOKINGS: https://www.lakemac.com.au/ Events-directory/Eventbrite/Rock-SlothPuppet-Show#

MAC School Holiday Workshop: Sun Print Join the Museum of Art and Culture team at yapang (MAC yapang) for a hands-on cyanotype workshop this school holidays. Create a sun print using Cyanotype in this one-hour artmaking class hosted by Art Museum Educators. Cyanotype is the "original" sun-printing process, one of the earliest

photographic techniques ever used. Kids will collect natural specimens to create two prints per student. WHEN: Thursday 14 July | Session One: 11am to 12pm Ages 6 -10 | Session Two: 1pm to 2pm Ages 9 -16. WHERE: MAC yapang. COST: $10pp (all materials included). Bring a hat and a water bottle. BOOKINGS: https://www.lakemac.com.au/ Events-directory/Eventbrite/MAC-SchoolHoliday-Workshop-Sun-Print# Continued next page ▶

SCHOOL HOLIDAYS GUIDE •

Whale Tales

(Continued)

Join in with FREE informative talks while watching the majestic Humpback Whales pass by on their annual northern migration. Presented by marine conservationist Jeannie Lawson, who has worked with whales for over 35 years.

PORT STEPHENS

The Vegetable Plot @ your library Join the fun with the crew from The Vegetable Plot at Tomaree and Raymond Terrace libraries. Using the power of music and storytelling, the Vegetable Plot musicians help kids fall in love with veggies. WHEN: Friday 8 July. WHERE: Raymond Terrace Library (10:30am to 11:30am); Tomaree Library (2:30pm to 3:30pm). COST: $10 Suitable for ages 2+ BOOKINGS: Essential - contact the library to book. Tomaree Library (PH 4988-0670) or Raymond Terrace Library (PH 4988-0111).

WHEN & WHERE: Saturday 9 July 2022, Barry Park Lookout, Fingal Bay (Talks at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm and 1:30pm). Saturday 16 July 2022, South Headland, Kingsley Drive, Boat Harbour (Talks at 10:30am, 11:30am, 12:30pm and 1:30pm). COST: Free. BOOKINGS: Not required (Check if wet weather).

Hunter Ice Skating Stadium

ALL AGES, ALL ABILITIES Why not try ice skating this School Holidays! Enjoy top 40 music and video clips playing on the big screens, plus people can request their favourite songs to be added into the mix. There will also be a sectioned off area for beginners with available skating frames. For the non-skating spectators – why not relax in the café while the kids skate! Rental Skate sizes range from a Kids 9 up to an Adults 14. Lockers are available for a small fee to secure your belongings.

BOOK ONLINE NOW! (1 adult + 3 kids OR 2 adults + 2 kids). These prices include skate hire – with your own skates you will save $4. For more details and other session times please visit the website. www.hiss.com.au

DETAILS 230 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay. Prices are $16 for 6yrs or under, $20 for 7yrs or over, $18 seniors and $65 for a family 42

• SCHOOL HOLIDAYS GUIDE

Sand Dune Safaris ALL AGES, ALL ABILITIES Come on the ultimate adventure! Join Sand Dune Safaris in one of our purpose built off road vehicles and experience the magnificent Stockton Sand Dunes - the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere, right here in beautiful Port Stephens. Discover the remote outpost of Tin City and learn about the history of the ecosystem and inhabitants.

You also can’t miss Sand Boarding, fun for all the family. Don’t forget your camera, the scenery is spectacular! School holiday activities: We will be open every day for our Sand Boarding Adventure, between 10am and 4pm. Price includes a 10 minute 4WD trip over the dunes, board hire, instructor and unlimited Sand Boarding. Also fantastic for kids birthday parties! Bring along your esky with food and drinks and relax in our shaded picnic area on the dunes whilst the kids have a ball! DETAILS Open every weekend, 10am - 4pm, weekdays by appointment. Open every day during Summer school holidays from 9:30am until 4:30pm and later. Please call to confirm last shuttle times as they may vary according to weather conditions. Departure location - Lower car park, end of James Paterson St, Anna Bay. Look for the big army bus! PH 0425 213 096 www.sanddunesafaris.com.au

Music by STEPHEN FLAHERTY

Co-conceived by ERIC IDLE

Based on the works of DR. SEUSS

Lyrics by LYNN AHRENS

Book by LYNN AHRENS and STEPHEN FLAHERTY

14 - 16 July CIVIC THEATRE VIP $99 | A Reserve $69 | B Reserve $49

CALL 02 4929 1977 43

Hunter Valley Horseriding & Adventures ALL AGES Get away from city living and go horseriding! It’s the perfect day trip – just 30 minutes up the Hunter Expressway. Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders – even the tiny tots can ride beautiful ponies with qualified guides leading the way. We also offer full day horse riding camps for the teens (12-16 yrs old) where they will get to groom and feed horses, learn about looking after horses, saddlery, and of course ride!

Other activities on offer include tractor hay rides to feed the animals, pedal go karts, farm animals, BBQ facilities, mountain bike trails (BYO bike), bush walking and ATV sunset tours with cheese and wine. If you feel like staying a little longer, we offer great guest house and semi self contained villa accommodation, where kids stay free during school holidays! (Villas only). Be quick to book, as we have limited spots available. DETAILS Open 7 days 288 Talga Road, Lovedale. Bookings are required. PH Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008, or visit www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

Children’s Discovery Day Tuesday July 5

Native Bee Talk Tuesday July 12

Nature is Fun

Wednesday July 13

SCHOOL HOLIDAY FUN AT

HUNTER REGION BOTANIC GARDENS

Lego Display

Thursday July 14 & Friday July 15

open daily 9am - 4pm Ph: 49871655 | Email: events@huntergardens.org.au Hunter Region Botanic Gardens 2100 Pacific Highway, Heatherbrae, NSW 2324

• SCHOOL HOLIDAYS GUIDE

Find Your Feet On The Ice This School Holidays! WORDS COURTNEY KYNASTON We think you’ll be hard pushed to find a better school holiday activity this Winter than a day out at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium. Open to all ages, sessions will run from 10:30am and 1:15pm Monday to Friday across the school holidays from 4 July 4 to 15 July. Family passes are available for $70 (two adults + two kids, or one adult + three kids) and include skate hire. Alternatively, adult entry is $17 ($22 with skate hire), and child entry is $12 ($17 with skate hire). A café inside the rink offers a range of food and drinks available to enjoy during your day out. And with everything from hot chips to spring rolls, pulled pork burgers, and hot and cold drinks, every taste is catered for. Spectators enter free and can sit back with a hot coffee in the heated café.

Whether you’re an experienced skater seeking more ice time to practice your skills or have never been ice skating before, Hunter Ice Skating Stadium welcomes children and adults of all levels and experiences. If you’re still finding your feet on the ice, skating frames are available to help you build up your confidence as you develop your skating skills. Hire skates are available in sizes ranging from child size 9 to adult size 14. Of course, if you have your own skates, take them along and save on skate hire! Hunter Ice Skating Stadium offer lockers on-site to give you peace of mind and security for your belongings, with prices starting at just $3 for 2 hours. Join the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium crew these school holidays and discover a whole new world of frozen fun! For up-to-date session times, visit www.hiss.com.au.

HUNTER HOMES

& Lifestyle

Showcasing the businesses behind the beautiful homes of the Hunter

Dress Your Leather For Winter

Contact the team at RetainEase to discuss your retaining wall needs! Visit our Showroom at 5 Belford Place, Cardiff Ph (02) 4956 5269 • E info@retainease.com.au For more information visit

WWW.RETAINEASE.COM.AU 46

• HUNTER HOMES & LIFESTYLE

Australian winter is in full swing, and these colder nights provide the perfect excuse to give your space a little makeover. When it comes to choosing furniture and home décor to create a warm look and feel, people often lean towards fabric sofas and overlook leather upholstery for their living room. However, leather can be easily transformed to escape the cold weather – not to mention staying in pristine condition all year round. The leather sofa range at OZ Design Furniture has been expanded with the latest Winter 2022 arrival – Dante. Showcasing buttery leather in a smooth black finish, the Dante sofa boasts stylish comfort for your whole family to enjoy. Its sophisticated design elevates modern homes, and its

dark aesthetic is perfect for this season. Much like our bodies, leather will match the room's air temperature, whether it be cool or warm. So the best way to make your lounge cosy and inviting in winter is to layer it with thick, textured décor such as soft throw blankets and a ton of scatter cushions. Adding in natural elements also creates a comforting aura, like the boucle Baker designer chair and tufted cotton cushions infusing the room with warmth. With a touch of fluted glass in the Piper coffee table, the Dante sofa can be dressed to impress with each season to come. Indulge your home this season and discover the impressive range of furniture and home décor online or in-store at OZ Design Furniture.

UP TO

50% OFF SELECTED ITEMS*

O Z D E S I G N F U R N I T U R E K O TA R A & R U T H E R F O R D

A U S T R A L I A N O W N E D & O P E R AT E D * T E R M S & C O N D I T I O N S A P P LY.

An Interview with Perry Homes’ New Home Consultant

Noel Simmonds Established in 1993, Perry Homes is 100% owned and managed by David Perry. Building from the Central Coast and out to Singleton in the Newcastle area right up to the Sunshine Coast, the company is one of the most trusted names in the building industry. This month we caught up with New Home Consultant Noel Simmonds to discuss Perry Homes in the Hunter Region. Tell us about your role at Perry Homes. I am a new home consultant and have been in the building industry for over 20 years. My job is to help clients find a home design that suits their needs, lifestyle and budget. My team and I can adapt one of our existing plans to suit or even create a brand new custom-designed home. We can also help with finding the right block of land. What type of builds do Perry Homes do? We build homes suitable for any block – be it flat, sloping, acreage or knock-down rebuilds. Our range of home designs include singlestorey, two-storey, split level, duplex/dual occupancy homes and granny flats. What are the benefits of building with Perry Homes? Price, design, value, peace of mind and the fact that we allow our clients to customise their home. Perry Homes uses only reputable brands and suppliers. This means that you are securing 48

• HUNTER HOMES & LIFESTYLE

quality when you build with Perry Homes, not just price. We are a debt-free family business – we are not a franchise. Our warranty insurances aren’t capped like many other builders. Subsequently, there are no wait times on site starts, and our ordering and scheduling timelines are streamlined. What makes you stand out above your competitors? Value for money. There are no hidden costs with Perry Homes and no last-minute surprises! Our standard inclusions are of a high level. When you build with Perry Homes, you have access to an exceptional range of products to choose from at no additional cost. There are over 50 bricks to select from, an outstanding range of tile choices, multiple garage profiles with 24 Colorbond colours on offer and items such as frameless mirrors as standard. What is the process when a new client walks through the door? The first thing that we need to start the process is the land. If a client hasn’t purchased a block of land yet, we are able to help source this.

Once we know the location of the block, then we can start looking at designs that will suit their requirements and budget. After I have put together a quote and it is agreed, we will then progress to a soil test, contour survey of the land, full working drawings and engineering – all from a $2,400 deposit. What are the top three things that people should consider when looking to build a new house? Lifestyle, budget, location. It is imperative to know how you are going to use a space; why have a formal dining room when you likely wouldn’t use it? Establishing a budget early in the process is also key to finding the right block of land and design that is within your reach. Location is of paramount importance; be sure to research school catchments, nearby shops, and distance to local amenities. How can someone get in touch? Perry Homes has display homes in Chisholm, Thornton and Lochinvar in the Hunter Region. Visit www.perryhomes.com.au to find details of your nearest display or contact Noel on 0418 169 800 / noel.simmonds@perryhomes.com.au

New display home now open

Azure 28

Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes. We have over 150 different floor plans to choose from, including single and two storey, granny flat and dual occupancy… there’s sure to be a design to suit your lifestyle. Whether you have a flat or a sloping block of any size, even knocking down your existing house to rebuild a new home, you can be sure we can bring your vision to life. If you can dream it, we can build it.

Visit one of our stunning display homes today or visit our website perryhomes.com.au

NSW Lic. No. 110970C QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748.

Chisholm

Thornton

Lochinvar

3 & 5 Silverwisp Rd. Open daily 10am to 4pm noel.simmonds@perryhomes.com.au Ph: (02) 4021 1680

20 Darlaston Ave. Open Fri to Wed 10am to 4pm jordan.maﬀey@perryhomes.com.au Ph: (02) 4077 3833

17 Springﬁeld Dr. Open Fri to Tues 10am to 4pm ben.hancock@perryhomes.com.au Ph: 0435 956 546 33387

• HUNTER HOMES & LIFESTYLE

Create Your Dream Bathroom Today HEATHERBRAE Unit 1, 8 Griffin Street, Heatherbrae, NSW 2324

NEWCASTLE Unit 1/5 - 7 Pacific Highway, Gateshead, NSW 2290

WEST GOSFORD 210 Manns Road, West Gosford, NSW 2250

www.highgrovebathrooms.com.au 51

Popular Community In The Perfect Location

Presenting a rare opportunity to become a part of this tightly held beachside suburb, Oasis Redhead offers a refreshing and energised take on over 50’s resort-style living. The team at Oasis Communities have received a very positive response to the launch of Oasis Redhead, with over 60 homes now sold. The team is also seeing significant progress out on-site, with the construction of the first stage due by the end of this year. Nestled right on the doorstep of Redhead Beach, you can see why this community has been so popular. These luxury single-level freestanding homes are perfect for those who want to bask in a laidback coastal lifestyle while remaining close to the buzzing centre of Newcastle.

With a host of financial benefits, including no exit fees, council rates, or stamp duty, and the ability to retain 100% of any capital gain, your new home at Oasis Communities will allow true peace of mind. Boasting striking architectural features, each of the ten custom-designed homes is of quality construction and offers the ability to truly customise with four internal colour schemes to choose from. Located within a safe and friendly community featuring state-of-the-art resortstyle facilities, it will feel like you are on holiday every day of the year. Take advantage of the

stunning Redhead climate and venture outside to join some friends for a hit of tennis or a lawn game of choosing. Take a stroll along the community pathway that runs along the edge of the dunes to the viewing platforms, pass by the outdoor recreation area and arrive at the BBQ facilities for a lunch stop. During the warmer months, swim leisurely laps, relax in the spa, or escape the heat and immerse yourself in a blockbuster thriller in the community cinema. Reach out to the friendly team at Oasis Redhead at www.oasiscommunities.com.au or 1300 624 624.

AUTHENTIC | STRATEGIC | DEPENDABLE

www.jenkinslegal.com.au | PH 4929 2000

Specialising in ALL Property Transactions incl. Conveyancing Business and Commercial Law • Property Law • Employment Law Estate Planning and Probate • Public Notary • Not-For-Profit Law 52

• HUNTER HOMES & LIFESTYLE

2-3

Located on sought-after Redhead Beach

TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY

TREE LOPPING SPECIALISTS • Free, Prompt, No Obligation Quotes • Fully Insured • Pensioner Rebates • Stump Grinding • Hedge Trimming • Reliable Service • Site Cleaned • Wood Chipping and Mulch Sales

NEIL 4945 8923 OR 0438 506 949 MARK 0424 275 386

NEED A HANDYMAN? Contact us for a free quote!

0456 966 325 www.brightsidehomemaintenance.com.au

• HUNTER HOMES & LIFESTYLE

• Over 30 years experience • Reliable and on time • No job too small • Pensioner & seniors discount

WILL BEAT ANY WRITTEN QUOTE

CALL GERRY BRACKEN 4942 8237 • 0408 805 627

Licence No. 110034c

D & J MILLER CONSTRUCTIONS ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING

• New Homes • Extensions • Renovations • Maintenance No Job Too Big Or Small • Free Quotes Honest & Reliable Service PHONE DARYL 0400 117 867 OR 4920 7526

Lic No. 261305C

NEWCASTLE’S PLACE FOR ALL THINGS TRADES & SERVICES!

All enquiries online or PH: 4960 0279

GYPROCKING • • • •

New Work Renovations Pre Paint Repairs Small Jobs

Pensioner Discounts

Call Bill 0401 624 029 ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE QUOTES • ALL AREAS LIC NO. 77284C

Get your furniture looking NEW again

Hansbuilt will restore your furniture back to it’s original glory or even better! Why buy imported Chinese furniture when you can restore your quality built Australian furniture in modern decor that will look fantastic and easily outlast anything sold in retail stores today.

Call the experts today!

HANSBUILT Furniture 16 Adeline Cres, Fletcher | www.hansbuilt.com.au Phone 02 4955 7599

TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY List your business here and on the intouch online directory each month! Email quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au or call Quentin on 0432-195-942 today! www.intouchmagazine.com.au HUNTER HOMES & LIFESTYLE •

Mid-Year

SALE

ON NOW

• Custom Made • Professional • Blinds • Awnings • Shutters • Privacy Screens Manual • Automation • Sensor Options Available

Visit our website to see our vast range of Blinds, Awnings and Shutters or see our Showroom at 8 Torrens Avenue, Cardiff.

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Windsor Works Wonders with Windows

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Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley | INTOUCH MAGAZINE JULY 22' ISSUE

Articles inside

School Holiday Guide

An Interview with Perry Homes’ New Home Consultant Noel Simmonds

Dentistry: Trend Versus Reality

Meet The Trainer!

Mateship Saves Lives

HOW DIET CAN REDUCE THE IMPACT OF LONG COVID

A World of Wine & Food Experiences

Live Life on the Wildside!

Shout Out To Wallsend's Heroes Of Hair!

See You at The Civic!

Popular Community in The Perfect Location

Community News | What's Happening in Your Community?

Dress Your Leather For Winter

On The Road with Human Nature

Horoscope

On Tour with The Kid | Humane Society

Wallsend's Heritage Celebrated with Modern Mural

On The Music Scene | You Can Save Live Music in Newcastle

Unique Tribute to King of Soul