Newcastle and Lake Macquarie
TM
ISSUE #24 // JULY 2017 WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU
LAUGHING OUT LOUD WITH
Tanya & Steve Plus...
A Toe-Tapping Good Time with Hunter Drama What’s On this Winter in Newcastle? Plenty! Preventing the Dreaded Lurgy... Naturally! A Passion for Life & People - Shivani Gupta
Lifestyle // Entertainment // Dining // Fashion // Community // Travel // Family // Home // Education // Property // Motoring
The All New
expo
21st, 22nd & 23rd July 2017
Newcastle Entertainment Centre
yourhomeexpo.com.au
2017
Calling for Exhibitors!
Welcome to an exciting new era for the Hunter Region’s home and leisure industry with the launching of the all-new and rebranded 2017 “I’m excited to be NEWCASTLE REGIONAL HOME EXPO, presented and personally produced back and producing by its original creator Phil Collins. this great event.” This is an opportunity to discover the latest in building trends, materials, MD MARKETING PTY. LTD p: 0407 496 933 e: phil@hunterpublishing.com.au www.newcastleregionalhomeexpo.com.au 1 products, home innovation and meet the specialists in all these fields. Phil Collins LOCK IT INTO YOUR CALENDAR TODAY! MD Marketing Pty Ltd
For exhibition enquiries contact Phil on 0407 496 www.intouchmagazine.com.au 933 | 3
INSIDE INTOUCH
From the Editors...
Siblings of kids with ASD tend to be compassionate, understanding and very accepting of difference. I have seen them come up with very creative ways to solve problems. This is what happens in The Chalk Rainbow.
The tables were turned this month when we sat down with local radio identities Tanya & Steve – KOFM’s breakfast duo. The interview was punctuated with laughter and anecdotes, and the esteem with which they hold each other was clear throughout. But for those who listen on a regular basis, the camaraderie will come as no surprise. Even the photo shoot was a hoot – a tour of the new offices and studios in Honeysuckle ahead of the crew’s official move a few days later was a treat. You can check out the studio with our interview on page 12. There are two whole weeks of school holidays stretching out in front of us – and if you don’t have any plans to escape to a tropical island this holiday don’t despair – we’ve got you covered! You’ll find 60+ sensational school holiday activities to enjoy with the family in our School Holiday Feature on page 35. There truly is something for everyone – from blasting down sand dunes to horse riding – and everything in between. You may even be inspired to visit Bunnings with the kids and get creative with a few home projects after reading this month’s On Tour with the Kid (on page 22). If you’ve been inspired by House Rules and plan to stay at home and renovate this school holidays then add the Newcastle Regional Home Expo to your diary (July 21-23). Aimed at homeowners, those who plan to build or renovate and anyone who dreams of creating a home to be proud of, this Expo will showcase some of the best in the business, proving that you don’t need to travel outside of the Hunter to find quality products and services. This month’s Health & Wellbeing section is also a treasure trove of hints and tips for staying healthy this winter with plenty of ideas you can try out at home or work, like standing up more, stretching, taking some natural supplements and looking after your mental health. Find a warm spot, grab a cuppa and have a good read! Enjoy! Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Quentin and Di von Essen | Publishers
PAGE 24
PAGE 35
Contents//
Features
- PAGE 42
ISSUE #24 JULY 2017
6
Newcastle Music Festival 2017
10
What's On Highlights
12
Cover Story - Laughing Out Loud with KOFM's Tanya & Steve
16
What's On this Newcastle During Winter? Plenty!
20
Expo Full of Ideas for Creative Living
23
At the Markets - Cameron Beau Wylie Foster
24
Basic Weight Training for Beginners - 5 Handy Tips
25
Take the Challenge, and Enjoy the Views!
28
The Diversity and Colours of India
31
Soups for Winter Wellness
35
School Holidays Special Feature
36
There's no Time for Boredom this School Holidays!
39
Inspiring Kids at Maths Inspiration
42
The Chalk Rainbow by Deborah Kelly
45
A Passion for Life and People - Shivani Gupta
PAGE 31
Regulars Got a great story to tell? Know someone who does? Budding writer or sensational photographer? We love contributions, so drop us a line at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au
Contacts Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen: quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen: di@intouchmagazine.com.au
8
What’s on Guide
18
Home + Lifestyle
22
Family + Community
24
Health + Wellbeing
28 Travel 30 Eat//Sip//Savour 43
Motoring and Business
44
Horoscopes
Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address Suite 4, 2 Smith Street, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au
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Advertising Sales Phone (02) 4943 0888 Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen and Carla Elkin Graphic Design Jess Codrington and Larissa Cluff Features Writer Michelle Meehan © Copyright 2017 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.
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GET MOBILE! View this month’s Issue of intouch magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Simply download the QR code and get mobile!
Contributors Thanks to the team at KOFM for allowing us access to their swanky new abode, and thanks also to Tanya & Steve for being so giving of their time. Photo credit - Brent Leggett and Chris Woolley of Skeye High Photography.
Carla Elkin Di von Essen Therese Ferry Chris Hyde Anne Ward Erica Thomas Tracey Hollis
Michelle Meehan Quentin von Essen Deborah Bartlett Sonya Todd-Jones Sarah Scott Laura Roberts Daniel Kilpatrick
Jess Codrington Megan O'Sullivan Mel Murray Brendan McInerney Tanya Obreza Chloe Sullivan
WIN
A Toe-Tapping Good Time with
HUNTER DRAMA! In another achievement for performing arts in the Hunter region, Hunter Drama (Junior Theatre Festival “Most Outstanding Production” back to back award winners) is bringing Singin’ in the Rain JR. to the St Philip’s Christian College theatre stage these July school holidays as part of their ten-year birthday celebration. Hunter Drama, the company that produced 2016’s box office smash hit production of Dreamworks Shrek JR, have once again secured the rights to produce another big bright, brilliant hit show right here in the heart of Newcastle. Hilarious situations, snappy dialogue and a hit-parade score of Hollywood standards, Singin’ in the Rain JR. is sure to excite and amaze the young and the young at heart. Hunter Drama’s Artistic Director, Elise Bialek says she was blown away by the enthusiastic reception of the show’s announcement for the 2017 season, “It’s so wonderful to have a big response from a younger generation, they are so passionate about the classics.” Singin’ in the Rain JR. once again proves that the Hunter region is a front runner for unprecedented opportunities for young people to stage full-scale professional musicals on a major scale right here in the Hunter. William Parker, Sophie Carmody, and Luke Barker lead an extraordinarily talented troupe of 26 young up and coming stars, as the triple threats don their raincoats to bring this musical classic to life! The cast has been working hard putting the show together guided by prominent industry professional and
William Parker as Don Lockwood in Singin in the Rain. Image by Jo Roberts.
Disneyland choreographer, Timothy Shaw and are now ‘Fit as a Fiddle’ and ready to perform. Hunter Drama was established in 2007 and has fast become the region's favourite company for producing fresh dramatic arts opportunities for young people with professional, large-scale musical events. Singin’ in the Rain JR. will hit the stage for three days only in the school holidays from the 5th – 8th of July at St Philip’s Christian College Theatre. Cast list: Grace Alston, Eve Baird, Luke Barker, Sophie Carmody, Amelia Carpenter, Olivia Clarke, Elody Conners, Ethan Colagiovanni, Isabel Formby, Savannah Geddes, Isla Graham, Charlie Heath, Emogen Mahony, Ruby McNamara, Will Parker, Phoebe Parker, Harper Parris, Maya Perry Evans, Rory Pollock, Jay Scott, Bella Sykes, Georgia Vaughn, Zoe Walker, Kate Wooden, Monique Walker. Creative Team: Drew Holmes- Director, Timothy Shaw- Choreographer, Alison HodgeMusical Director, Elise Bialek- Assistant Director.
Visit www.tickets.spcc.nsw.edu.au for tickets, prices start from $25. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 5
NEWCASTLE
What's On?
MUSIC FESTIVAL 2017
Anthony Albrecht
When David Banney and Ross Fiddes met in December 2015 to begin planning a music festival, they conceived a weekend event featuring a mix of local and visiting musicians. However, as word of the festival spread and offers to perform in the festival came flooding in, one weekend stretched to two, and so the Newcastle Music Festival was born. The final product was a ten-day festival in August 2016, with more than 200 musicians performing in 20 events, which, following its success in 2016, is on again in August 2017. “Our main aim is to provide a platform for the best local musicians and part of that means bringing inspiring guests to Newcastle to share the stage with these great locals,” said CoArtistic Director Ross Fiddes. In 2016 the inspiring guests included opera star Deborah Humble, a soloist with the Hamburg State Opera, who received a standing ovation for her performance on the festival’s opening night. Says Fiddes, ‘before the Festival, just when we were ready to go to print with the program, Deborah contacted
us, offering to perform. This was how the festival grew – we kept receiving offers that we couldn’t refuse.’ While the festival focuses mainly on classical music, the nineteen event 2017 program also includes jazz, popular and world music, as well as a collaboration with visual artist Brett McMahon. A special event will see Australian rock-icon John Paul Young join forces with members of the Christ Church Camerata, in hits such as ‘Evie’ and ‘Pasadena’. Another highlight of the festival will be performances by Opera Australia’s star soprano, Hyeseoung Kwon, who has made the role of Madame Butterfly her own in many performances, both in Australia and around the world. “We cannot miss mentioning also the highly anticipated performance by the stunning young violinist Anna da Silva Chen of the Vivaldi The Four Seasons,” said Mr Fiddes. For David Banney, a particular highlight will be the homecoming of two Novocastrians – Thomas Chawner and Anthony Albrecht – who David conducted as school students more than a decade ago at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music. Going their separate ways after finishing school, both have established international careers, Thomas as the viola player in the brilliant Orava String Quartet, and Anthony as a solo cellist. The 2017 festival will see them perform together for the first time since schooldays. A feature in 2016 was the Festival Strings, in which community string players of all ages and abilities were invited to join the Christ Church Camerata for the Festival Finale in the splendid setting of Christ Church Cathedral. The response from the community was enormous, resulting in an orchestra of more than 90 players. The Festival Strings will again appear in the 2017 Finale. Building on the success of the Festival Strings, 2017 will see the inaugural Festival Choir, in which singers from the community will come together to create a special massed ►
Feel the music Fill your soul! Come share the joy as inspiring guests and brilliant locals put Newcastle on the international music calendar. The second annual Newcastle Music Festival builds on last year’s successful event with even more to enjoy. Don’t miss out!
MORE THAN 300 PERFORMERS • 12 DAYS 20 EVENTS • OUTSTANDING VENUES [Fill your diary] August 9–20
Principal Sponsor
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EXPLORE MORE:
TICKETS:
www.newcastlemusicfestival.org
www.newcastlemusicfestival.org/tickets
2 0 1 7
Hyeseoung Kwon
choir, joined by established choral groups and by Hyeseoung Kwon and the Newcastle Youth Orchestra conducted by Kim Sutherland performing the sublime John Rutter Requiem and Mendelssohn’s Hear My Prayer. A festival doesn’t happen without enormous work behind the scenes, and Fiddes and Banney acknowledge the work of a ‘truly remarkable committee’. “Through the great work of the committee we have established a number of very exciting partnerships with sponsors, government, and other organisations that have offered enormous assistance.”
John Swan (Left) with Brian Lizotte at Live at the Foreshore 2016.
THE JOURNEY OF JOHN “SWANEE” SWAN Originating from Glasgow, John “Swanee” Swan has been on the Australian music scene since he was just 14 years old. Since those early days, he has become part of this countries musical backbone playing first as a drummer, then as a singer with many of the countries top rock and roll outfits. In 1978 he released his first album, Into The Night, with WEA Records. Swanee's first major chart success was a great rendition of Tim Hardin's If I Were A Carpenter, from the album This Time It's Different. Success with the next two singles from the album immediately followed with Lady What's Your Name and Temporary Heartache both screaming up the charts. In 1985, Party Boy Paul Christie was considering a new front man who he said needed to have "the best rock'n'roll voice in the country.” John Swan was asked, he accepted and along came the Party Boys self-titled album which went
A partnership with TAFE in 2016 was particularly fruitful, with work experience students involved in a range of activities, from logo design and hospitality, to event marketing and floristry. An important development in 2017 is a partnership with the University of Newcastle and the Conservatorium of Music, which will play host to a number of festival events. As the 2017 festival looms, Banney and Fiddes buzz with the news that Prime7 will be its first principal sponsor. “No festival can succeed without the support of sponsors and partners. We don’t like to think of the festival as our own personal property, but as an event that belongs to the whole community, and with the support of Prime7 we have the chance to take the festival to the next level,” said Mr Banney. But in these days, with music so freely available online and on our devices, why do we need a festival? The ease of hearing music is exactly why we need a festival, argues David Banney: “no recording can make up for the special experience of hearing music performed live. Music has always been a means of bringing people together, and we hope that this festival can be a major part of the region’s cultural life for may years to come.” The Newcastle Music Festival runs from August 9-20. For more information, as well as tickets, see the NMF website www.newcastlemusicfestival.org ■
to #1 in 3 weeks thanks to the success of the number one single He's Gonna Step On You Again, and two other top 10 hits with Hold Your Head Up and Gloria. In 2000, John came off the road to get sober after too many years of hard partying. A long-distance recording project with Australian producer Mark Moffatt (now based in Nashville) soon turned into a full-blown album, Have A Little Faith. Featuring many of Nashville's finest players working through a selection of new songs from John, some favourite tunes and some updated versions of his biggest hits. "I started off singing with an acoustic guitar and sending the songs to Mark," says John. "It was initially going to be an acoustic album, but then it started to rock a bit too much as we settled into that Nashville groove. I love singing hard and pushing myself, and I truly believe my singing has gotten much stronger since I've been sober.” For those who missed it, Swanee stole the show at last year's Live at the Foreshore here in Newcastle putting on a show stopping performance. In January this year, John was the recipient of an Australia Day OAM for service to music as a performer, and to the community through charitable organisations. "My main thing these days is working with the next generation. I'm trying to show them from my own experiences that you don't have to screw up your life and that you can be more creative and challenge yourself when you're straight...in fact, the longer you do it that way, the better you get! Then you can really enjoy and appreciate the rewards that come from your efforts." See John live at Lizotte's Newcastle on July 22nd, 2017. Visit www.lizottes.com.au for tickets.
Newcastle. A great city for major events.
July
DIETMAR LEDERWASCH, MURKY DEPTHS IV 2015
19 - 22
THE AGE OF CONSENT, CIVIC PLAYHOUSE
22 - 26
MR STINK, CIVIC THEATRE
28 - 29
LANDSCAPE WITH MONSTERS, CIVIC THEATRE
ON UNTIL 12 AUG
THE PHANTOM SHOW EXHIBITION, NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY
August 5 AUG - 15 OCT
KILGOUR PRIZE 2017, NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY
13
WALLSEND WINTER FAIR, WALLSEND
9 - 20
NEWCASTLE MUSIC FESTIVAL, VARIOUS LOCATIONS
25-26
NEWCASTLE INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FESTIVAL, TOWER CINEMAS NEWCASTLE
25-27
NEWCASTLE JAZZ FESTIVAL, WESTS NEW LAMBTON
September 1
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE, CIVIC THEATRE
2-3
NEWCASTLE CITY SUPERMOTO, NEWCASTLE SHOWGROUNDS
For enquiries please call 4974 2000. For more information visit: www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 7
What’s on? SATURDAY, JULY 1
Lake Macquarie. 5km, 10km and 42km marathon events on offer! Find HOOK for Bravehearts on facebook for more info and tickets. Olive Tree Markets Civic Park, 9am - 3pm.
►COMING UP JULY SATURDAY 1ST LOKO Belmont 16s Dean Kyrwood Bar Petite Trent Bell The Small Ballroom Adaptors Lass O'Gowrie Hotel The Cassettes Mezz Bar Superheist The Cambridge Hotel SUNDAY 2ND Bay City Rollers Wests New Lambton Mark Wells Band Wickham Park Hotel THURSDAY 6TH The Radiators Mezz Bar, Wallsend Touché Amoré The Cambridge Hotel Cable Ties Hamilton Station Hotel FRIDAY 7TH Mr James Band Belmont 16s One Night Stand Wickham Park Hotel Access All 80's Edgeworth Bowling Club Phonic The Exchange Jerome Bar Petite SATURDAY 8TH Horrorshow Bar on the Hill, UoN The Rumour Trio Belmont 16s GW Freebird Duo Bar Petite Love That Hat Mezz Bar SUNDAY 9TH Bloom Belmont 16s Joe Pug + Courtney Marie Andrews The Edwards MONDAY 10TH Clare Bowen Civic Theatre Newcastle THURSDAY 13TH Dope Lemon The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 14TH Leadfinger + The Delta Lions Stag and Hunter Sundays Record Mezz Bar Croc Q Bar Petite SATURDAY 15TH Japandroids The Small Ballroom Just a Gent The Cambridge Hotel SUNDAY 16TH 1927 + Pseudo Echo Wests New Lambton Viper Creek Band Edgeworth Bowling Club FRIDAY 21ST Queen - It's A Kinda Magic Wests City SUNDAY 23RD Greg Bryce Duo Mezz Bar MONDAY 24TH 68 Australian Tour The Small Ballroom THURSDAY 27TH Pete Murray The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 28TH Marina Prior + David Hobson Wests New Lambton Snape Trilogy Mezz Bar SATURDAY 29TH Josh Pyke The Cambridge Hotel SUNDAY 30TH Floyd Vincent and The Temple Dogs Wickham Park Hotel The Everly Brothers + Buddy Holly Wests New Lambton Adam Eckersley + Brook McClymont Mezz Bar
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1 JULY Winter Heat 2017 One of the best Newcastle Winter events is back! Head to Honeysuckle for roving entertainment, interactive displays and a food festival - there's something for the whole family. 5pm - 9pm. Newcastle Unity in Diversity Festival Come celebrate the diversity of cultures Newcastle has to offer at this family friendly festival. Lot's of activities are on offer! Gregson Park Hamilton, 11.30am - 3pm. Kevin Bloody Wilson The Almost Awesome Tour Belmont 16s.
SUNDAY, JULY 2 Knights vs Tigers McDonald Jones Stadium, 2pm. Hunter Wellness Festival A day of health, wellness, mind, body, soul and more. 10am - 4pm, New Lambton Community Centre (14 Alma Road).
WEDNESDAY, JULY 5
History in the Museum's Neighbourhood: A Walking Tour Explore how past foundations shape what we see in our city today. The tour is approximately 2 hours, and 2.7km long from Newcastle Museum. Free, bookings required on 4974 1400. www.newcastlemuseum.com.au
SUNDAY, JULY 9 Newcastle Brickfest 2017 Returning for its 4th year - this time at Newcastle Racecourse, Newcastle Brickfest is back with new and old Lego favourites! Last year sold out, so grab your $5 tickets soon through www.facebook.com/newcastlebrickfest
FRIDAY, JULY 14 Grease - The Arena Experience 3 performances at Newcastle Entertainment Centre, 14 - 16 July. www.ticketek.com.au Renae Saxby - Photography Exhibition The Edwards, 7pm - 11pm.
SATURDAY, JULY 15 Knights vs Broncos McDonald Jones Stadium, 5.30pm.
SUNDAY, JULY 16
The Pink Floyd Experience – Animals 40th Anniversary Tour Featuring Pink Floyd’s three most iconic albums, Animals, Dark Side of the Moon and Wish You Were Here, this won't be just a show, it will be an experience! Civic Theatre Newcastle. Toronto Toastmasters Do you have trouble speaking in public? Whether it be a wedding, function or corporate meeting, come along to a meetings at Club Maquarie, Argenton every Wednesday night, 7.30pm to 9.30pm to boost your confidence and grow your skills. www.torontotoastmasters.org.au
THURSDAY, JULY 6 Legally Blonde Jr - The Musical Based on the awardwinning Broadway musical! 6 - 8 July, The Playhouse.
FRIDAY, JULY 7 Naidoc Week Family Fun Day From 10am - 2pm, enjoy a day of fun with entertainment, a bbq, and an Oakvale Farm animal pen and jumping castles for the kids at Murrook Culture Centre, Williamtown.
SATURDAY, JULY 8 Raffertys Coastal Run An 11km, 22km and 35km trail run hosted by Raffertys Resort, with the course taking in the sights of beautiful Lake Macquarie! This family friendly event includes kids activities and a fun run. www.raffertyscoastalrun.com.au Must-See International Soccer – Jets vs Audax Don’t miss the must-see clash between Newcastle Jets and the mighty South American team Audax Italiano! McDonald Jones Stadium. HOOK for Bravehearts Fun Run Series HOOK 'Hands off our kids' is set up to bring awareness of child sexual assault. The fun run series is a low cost event, run once a month from Myuna Bay rest area,
THURSDAY, JULY 20 Dirty Girls Adventure Film Tour Come and celebrate the wonderful wild women of the outdoors at Tower Cinemas, Newcastle. Tickets at www.dirtygirlsadventurefilmtour.com.au
FRIDAY, JULY 21 Newcastle Regional Home Show Everything to do with home lifestyle at Newcastle Entertainment Centre, 21 - 23 July. www.newcastleregionalhomeexpo.com.au Emotion Management for Children and Teens with ASD An effective workshop for parents, carers and family members, health and educational professionals dealing with Autism Spectrum Disorder. www.mindsandhearts.net/events
SATURDAY, JULY 22 Dialogue in Writing Amy Lovat will present keys to writing realistic dialogue, how to balance and when to use narrative and dialogue, and how to create a distinct voice for each character. 11am - 3pm, Hunter Writers Centre. Tickets: www.hunterwriterscentre.org Street Feast Presented by Hunt & Gather, this 4pm 8pm street food market will feature on Market Street Lawn during Winter! Riverwood Downs Trail Run for Herd2Homes A timed 'tail' run for not just you and your family, but your dog too! There's 3 events - 30km, 15km and the 4km fun run. www.tailrunner.events
SUNDAY, JULY 23 Barry Morgan's Variety Hour... and a Half! 90 mins of chit chat, music and life lessons from Barry Morgan from the World of Organs. Carrington Bowling Club. Tickets $35 at www.trybooking.com
MONDAY, JULY 24
16 JULY Winery Running Festival You can enter a range of events including the Marathon (42.2km), Half Marathon (21.1km), Winery 10km, Winery Wander 6km or the Kids Marathon 2km. Enter online before July 13th. www.wineryrun.com Splashdance - Lets Bop! The show will include all the big dancing songs from the smash hit SplashDance TV series at Charlestown Bowling Club. www.kidspromotions.com.au Christmas in July Hosted by Wayne Rogers at Wallsend Sporties, 11am - 3pm. 2-course lunch, entertainment, raffles, games, dancing and fun. Tickets $65. Call James on 0400 675 781.
TUESDAY, JULY 18 Business Fast Track Hosted by Max My Profit, this workshop will give business owners lots of strategies that will grow and expand your business. 9am - 12pm, NEX. Tickets at www.businessfasttrack.com.au
WEDNESDAY, JULY 19 The Age of Consent A chilling and powerful play exposing the psyche of two seemingly different characters. 19-22 July, The Playhouse.
Maths Inspiration Inspiring maths lecture shows for 15-17 year olds. Inspire students to study STEM subjects to HSC and beyond! Civic Theatre.
TUESDAY, JULY 25 Mr Stink David Walliams’ award-winning book comes to life on stage. 25 + 26 July, Civic Theatre.
THURSDAY, JULY 27 Hunter Homeless Connect Charity Auction + Dinner All funds raised will enable continuous delivery of vital services to the homeless in the Hunter region via the annual Hunter Homeless Connect Day. Wests New Lambton. Tickets at www.stickytickets.com.au
FRIDAY, JULY 28 Landscape With Monsters A bold new contemporary circus work, created in response to evolving industrial landscapes. 28 + 29 July, Civic Theatre.
SATURDAY, JULY 29 Fernleigh 30 Supporting Hands Across the Water, Fernleigh 30 has 3 events you can enter - run or walk the 3km, 10km or 20km! www.redheadwellness.com
SUNDAY, JULY 30 Puggles Baby & Kids Winter Market Over 50 stalls with all things babies, kids and parents. Free face painting, live music and goodie bags for the first 100 through the door! $2 entry (kids free), PCYC Broadmeadow. No atms onsite. 9.30am - 12.30pm.
Do you have a local event or gig coming up? Email us today at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au
What’s on? Coming Up IN AUGUST
COMING UP//
Live & Cookin’
TUESDAY 1ST An Evening with Christina Lamb and Emrys Westacott Prof. Westacott will talk to Russell Blackford about his most recent book The Wisdom of Frugality: Why Less is More. Journalist Christina Lamb will talk to Rosmarie Milsom about her books I Am Malala and The Girl from Aleppo: Nujeen’s Escape from War to Freedom. Tickets at www.eventbrite.com.au
31 Morehead Street, Lambton Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED
JULY
SATURDAY 5TH Comedy Hypnotist Gerard V Australia’s most entertaining comedy hypnotist, Gerard V is at Toronto RSL! www.gerardv.com
LOVE THAT HAT...PLAYS THE ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA Saturday 1 + Sunday 2
SUNDAY 6TH Hunter Wedding Expo Admission is $10pp (proceeds to Variety), with brides receiving a free goodie bag! NEX, 10am 2pm.
SATURDAY 12TH HOOK for Bravehearts Double Low cost fun run series run from Myuna Bay rest area, Lake Macquarie. 5km and 10km on the Saturday, 43km marathon on Sunday. Find HOOK for Bravehearts on facebook for info and tickets. Maitland Aroma Coffee and Chocolate Festival Ward off the winter chills at RIverside Carpark, Maitland on the 12th + 13th. See demonstrations, entertainment, food and wine from 10am 4pm. www.maitlandaroma.com.au
SUNDAY 13TH Pooch Picnic Join Pepper Tree Wines in Pokolbin for wine and food, plus all things canine. Supporting Dog Rescue Newcastle, gold coin entry. 10.30am - 2.30pm. Wallsend Winter Fair 2017 Amusement rides, food, market stalls, music, performances, and a Grand Parade all in on funfilled community day! www.wallsendwinterfair.com.au
WEDNESDAY 16TH Les Misérables The story of French peasant Jean Valjean who is on a quest for redemption. 16-26 August, Civic Theatre. www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
FRIDAY 25TH Short Surf Film Festival A cinematic celebration about 'How surfing positively impacts your life'. Cinematographers are invited to create a 7 minute short film, with the top 10 being shown on the night, entries close on July 25. Tower Cinemas, Newcastle. www.fisherflicks.com
12th + 13th August 2017
LEO SAYER Leo Sayer’s illustrious recording career has included more than twenty top ten singles including You make me feel like dancing, More than I can say, and When I need you plus five top ten albums. Add to this the hits written for Roger Daltrey, Cliff Richard, Three Dog Night, Tina Turner, Gene Pitney, Jennifer Warnes, and Dolly Parton and his prowess as an internationally acclaimed and talented songwriter becomes clear. In 2015 he released Restless Years and toured Australia and the UK to over 60 sell-out concerts. There’s no sign of him slowing down either. At 68, Sayers energy is as strong as ever, constantly touring around the globe, songwriting and recording a new album. Leo is a busy guy who loves his life and work, lives for entertaining audiences and music fans around the globe. He is totally determined that whatever happens – ‘the show must go on!’ Join him at Lizotte's for two exclusive shows next month when he performs on the 12th and the 13th of August. For tickets and more information visit www.lizotte’s.com.au
MENTAL AS ANYTHING Saturday 8 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH VAN THE MAN Sunday 9 CASEY DONOVAN Friday 14 CONDABALOOZA Saturday 15 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH TONI CHILDS Sunday 16 SIMON AND GARFUNKEL THE CONCERT Friday 21 ASPIRING VOICES LUNCH - THE VOICE STUDIO JUNIOR SHOWCASE Sunday 23 INSPIRING VOICES - THE VOICE STUDIO SENIOR SHOWCASE Sunday 23 MY FRIEND THE CHOCOLATE CAKE Friday 28
THE LEGENDARY RUSSELL MORRIS Saturday 29
LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH OSHEA
SUNDAY 27TH Lake Macquarie Running Festival 21.1km Half Marathon, 10.5km Fun Run and Corporate Teams Challenge or 4km Kids Scamper around beautiful Lake Mac. For more information, visit www.lakemacrunning.com
RUMOURS - A TRIBUTE TO FLEETWOOD MAC Friday 7
Win!
Thanks to the crew at Lizotte’s we have a double, show-only pass valued at $250 to give away to Leo’s show on the 12th of August to a lucky reader. Enter at www.intouchmagazine.com.au/giveaways. Don't delay - entries close midnight July 31st.
Sunday 30
AUGUST NICK SAXON Friday 4 LEO SAYER Saturday 12 + Sunday 13 GEORGE MICHAEL RELIVED Friday 18 SHANE NICHOLSON Saturday 19
JULY 8 | AUGUST 5 | SEP 2
MORE SHOWS added daily. LIVE SHOWS starting from $65 (including dinner)
BOOK ONLINE NOW + See who CIVIC PARK 9AM - 3PM
else is coming to dinner...
lizottes.com.au or PH 4956 2066 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 9
What's On
An Exhibition Worth a Visit
Child with a toy hand grenade in Central Park, NYC 1962
Sunday, July 9th National Gallery of Australia exhibition 'Diane Arbus: American Portraits' opens at Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery on Friday July 7th, running until Sunday August 20th. Diane Arbus (1923 - 1971) was an American photographer well known for her poignant portraits of those who laid on the margins of society; her photos of street people, transvestites, nudists, and carnival performers were highly controversial. Some viewers found her photos bizarre and disturbing, others finding a sense of compassion for the subject. Her work challenged conventions about distance between photographer and subject, this being the reason she was able to create such a raw and unique style of portraiture. Don't miss the exhibition opening on July 9th from 2pm with Gallery Director Debbie Abraham and guest speaker Anne O'Hehir (curator NGA). Free event, Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery, First Street Booragul.
Two Iconic Australian Bands in One Night! Miss Porters House - Paranormal Classroom Saturday, July 8th If you have already heard of Miss Porters House on King Street, you'll know it's a unique experience combining history AND the paranormal. This 'house museum' is perfect for the curious - expect nothing and explore your own beliefs about what this haunted site may reveal! Take a walk back in time and join in on an exclusive adults only two-hour tour (capped at 9 people) for $45pp. Winter dates include July 8th and August 19th, you will need to be quick to book! For details email info@newcastleghosttours.com.au
Sunday, July 16th Two of Australia's most iconic bands 1927 and Pseudo Echo are teaming up for a full national tour, visiting Wests New Lambton in July! 1927 are no stranger to stardom, with their debut album ISH becoming the highest selling debut release by an Australian artist, along with six of the songs charted singles. They will be performing ISH in full, including hit songs If I Could and That’s When I Think Of You, plus some of their follow up titles. Pseudo Echo will celebrating the 30th anniverary of Funky Town, which for 12 consecutive weeks held the number 1 spot in Australia. Their jam packed set will include hits such as Listening, Don’t Go, and many more! Don't miss two of Australia's most iconic bands celebrating their place in music history in this must see concert. Tickets are $40 + BF available online at www.proticket.com.au
Toni Childs
Photography Exhibition - Renae Saxby Friday, July 14th Newcastle local Renae Saxby will have her documentary style of travel portraiture on display at The Edwards, Parry Street Newcastle. Prints are for purchase on the night, with a percentage of sales going to Renae’s AID project 'Footprints in Nepal'. Visit www.renaesaxby.com for more information.
Sunday 16th July, Lunch and Dinner Shows Australia loves Toni Childs, and she loves us. So much so that she is going to warm up our hearts with a limited run of shows performing songs from her much loved albums Union, House of Hope and The Woman’s Boat – a concept album based on the cycle of life. The show will also include the unique and soul uplifting performance of her Emmy-winning song Because You’re Beautiful. Toni Childs is a powerhouse of emotion, passion and tenderness and her voice penetrates deep into your body and soul. You do not want to miss out on this rare opportunity. Catch one of her lunch and dinner shows at Lizotte's Newcastle on July 16th. For more information or tickets, visit www.lizottes.com.au
In print and online. We’re a monthly mag, not a weekly rag. For more information and advertising rates call 4943 0888 or email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au 10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
1927
ObstaCOOL
Saturday, July 15th Obstacool, together with Athletics NSW, is bringing the Central Coast an amazingly fun family event! Originally created for kids 4 - 12 years, this time adults and teens can join in the fun too. There is lots of activities on offer through foam guns, walls, pyramids, an 'A frame', rope climbs, rock climbing walls, balance beams and much more. Don't miss the highlight 'the Big Bopper'... a 40m giant inflatable which is an obstacle course in itself! Admission for the event is $15 for 30 minutes (4 to 18yrs) and $10 for adults. The course is open 10am - 3pm in half hour waves, located at the University of Newcastle, Ourimbah. So what are you waiting for? Visit www.obstacool.com.au and reserve your ticket to run, jump, bounce, climb and crawl through this awesome obstacool course!
A Peek into the Past at Tocal Sunday July 30th Take a peek into the sights, sounds and even smells of yesteryear at Tocal Homestead's Peek into the Past open day! This will be an old fashioned day out, with nostalgic experiences and discovery of what the past entailed. If you haven't been to Tocal before, then it is worth the trip you will find some of Australia's finest collections of old colonial buildings from the 1830's, a homestead (where this event is located), a hay-shed converted visitors and function centre and the well known Tocal Agricultural College. The homestead is usually only open for visitor tours from March to November
Fernleigh 30
Port Stephens Human Whale 2017 Saturday, July 15th It's that time of the year again... The Humpback is making a comeback to an all new location at Fingal Bay Beach (previously Shoal Bay Beach). Help Port Stephens in a world record attempt for the biggest human whale formation, in celebration of Naturefest 2017 and the beginning of the annual whale watching season! This is the perfect event for school holidays as there will be great entertainment, a barbeque lunch by Fingal Bay Surf Life Saving Club, and educational displays. Registration for the event is from 10am - 12pm at Fingal Beach (Marine Drive, Fingal Bay) with formation beginning at 12pm. Free shuttles are available every 30 minutes from 9am - 11am from D'Albora Marina, Nelson Bay CBD and Shoal Bay.
Saturday, July 29th If you're in need of something to keep you motivated and inspired in Winter, try the Fernleigh 30! Going on 3 years, this great event run by the Redhead Wellness Sanctuary supports Hands Across the Water, a charity aiming to provide safe environments, education and improvement opportunities to Thai children and their communities. Beginning at 8am from the Redhead soccer fields, you can run, walk or ride the entire track, or join in on the 3km, 10km or 20km events - why not challenge yourself! This event is great for the whole family - kids are more than welcome. Registration costs $40, with 100% of the proceeds donated to Hands Across the Water. Visit www.redheadwellness.com/events
on Sundays, however at their annual Peek into the Past event, you'll get more than just a tour! There will be working horses, heritage tractors and machinery, blacksmiths working at the forge, the local straw broom maker at work, mixed with the aromas of freshly baked scones and apple pie from the old wood stove plus damper from the camp fire. Take in a history talk, see the red coats of soldiers from the 73rd regiment, watch the heritage clothing parade or machinery demonstrations. The kids aren't forgotten - they will be entertained with the farm animals and cart rides with Harry the Clydesdale. Pack your own picnic for the day, or taste your way around all the delicious homemade refreshments on offer. The fun begins at 10am and wraps up at 3pm. Adult entry is $10, concession $8 and school children are free. Visit www.tocal.com for more information or for the program.
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Cover Story
Tanya and Steve test drive the new state of the art studio at Honeysuckle. Photo credit - Skeye High Photography.
Laughing Out Loud With KOFM's
TANYA & STEVE WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Features Writer
around in the newsroom. I kept coming back on holidays and they eventually let me stay. A lot of harassing, but I got the job, straight out of school. I always wanted to do radio. I had a little Coke bottle radio that my Nan gave me and I used to take it into bed and listen to it and I was just fascinated that people could be all over the place and tell you what they were seeing and that honestly impacted me. Being in Raymond Terrace, I thought a big day out was crossing over the river into Newcastle, so to hear voices from all over, I was fascinated by it. I started in the newsroom and I was the copywriter, they called it the creative writer back then… but my first on-air show was a night time request show when I was 17. Steve: People still talk about it (laughs), I can’t repeat what intouch: Hi Tanya and Steve, thanks for taking time out to have a chat today. Both of you have been on the air for decades now, they say, but people still talk about it. Tanya: But being 2HD, I had to keep ringing my Mum or at various radio stations and with a number of different cohosts. But how did you get your start in radio in the first place? my Nan going ‘What is this song, who sings this song?’ – I didn’t know what they were talking about, there was no INXS Tanya: I did work experience from Raymond Terrace High to requested let me tell you. 2HD because I wanted to be a journalist, so they let me play It’s clear when you spend time with Tanya Wilks and Steve Graham that the KOFM breakfast announcers enjoy what they do – and who they do it with. Conversations are punctuated with laughter, anecdotes flow freely and the esteem in which they hold each other shines clearly through their answers. On the eve of KOFM’s relocation to a new state-of-the-art facility at Honeysuckle on June 26, intouch Magazine sat down with the Newcastle radio stalwarts to find out more about life behind the microphone, why they love being on air – and just what it’s like to wear man nappies!
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Steve: That is such a hard thing to believe, that at 17 you were broadcasting to a 50-plus audience basically, wow. Tanya: The amount of covered coat hangers I would get for Christmas was brilliant, loved it (laughs). intouch: How did you find the age gap between you and your listener demographic? Tanya: It probably should have been more challenging than it was, but I was more focused on doing what I wanted to do, so that was exciting. I had no idea half the stuff I was talking about or playing. But I think finally we’re in the best possible place for both of us now, it’s great, our audience is us. We’ve met in the middle because I was old (listener demographic), Steve came from young (NXFM) and we’ve met at a perfect time in life. intouch: How did you get into radio Steve? Steve: I’m a late bloomer, I was about 25. I’m a professional fisherman by trade, I owned a trawler at 21, I bought it off my dad, it was a family business in Brisbane. And then I realised, cause I left school early, that I’d done about seven or eight years working 365 days and I thought there must be something else out there and I literally came home to Mum and Dad and said ‘I’m going to sell the trawler and move to Mackay’ and they said ‘Why?’ and I didn’t have an answer for either. And that’s literally what I did, we sold it, and I got that money, and I moved up to Mackay because I had one friend that lived there. I bagged fertiliser, and I worked in Just Jeans
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shops, I did all of this sort of thing and then one night I was at a pub, and all of my mates said ‘Do that stuff you do at work’ because they had a talent thing, you’d win a six pack. I got up on stage and I was supposed to do five minutes - they had to drag me off after about an hour - and in the crowd was the guy who owned the local radio station and he walked up to me and said ‘Mate you’ve done this before, have you done any radio?’ I went ‘Of course I had’ – I had no idea. Then I went into the radio station and did some audition tapes and I never heard back from them again (laughs)… I can’t imagine how bad I must have been because I had no idea. After that I moved back to Brisbane and I saw this ad that said ‘Air TV’ and it was a radio course or something. I thought I liked that experience (in Mackay), I’ll go and do that. I was in the course, it was a three month course and in the first month they got me a job at 4GY in Gympie doing nights. I did nights for three weeks, then they put me in drive.
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I was in breakfast I think four months after starting in radio period because I was really cocky. It was called 4GY and I’d always say ‘You’re listening to 4G-why am I still here?’ because I hated Gympie and that cockiness seemed to work in my favour. It still does.
I never dreamed I would be in radio, not for a second, never even crossed my world and here I am. intouch: What is it that both of you really love about radio? Tanya: I’ve always loved the immediacy and being able to communicate anything, everywhere with anyone. To me, TV, what a hassle, print takes its time whereas radio, the immediacy has always been so appealing. One minute this morning we’re in London, then we’re over in Perth with old people that used to be on an ad on TV, but I love that. Steve: From a breakfast show point of view it’s like having coffee with your friends but there just happens to be 150,000 friends at the table. And that’s kind of a bit like what it’s like because the audience are on our show a lot with phones and things like that, that’s what I love about it. Social media makes us far more accessible now, they’ll write to us right after we’ve said something, it’s very much more accessible these days than 10 years ago, we
used to cross our fingers didn’t we, ‘Hope that worked!’ Tanya: Another situation this morning we were talking about, straight away listeners were contacting us via various social media platforms going, ‘Hey guys, heard you talking about this, how about this, I’ve got this or I can do this’ so the connectedness that social media brings has just lifted radio, which is why I think it’s even more relevant than it’s ever been to be quite honest. Steve: You can get music from anywhere, but you can only get the people you like to listen to (on radio), that’s it, that’s the only difference between the whole world now. I think radio and shows and personalities, that’s your only point of difference now. intouch: Radio is a lot about personalities and how well the hosts mix with each other. How hard is it to get that chemistry right? Steve: It’s been embarrassingly easy for us, it really has. We knew each other a long time before we did a show together but it’s embarrassingly easy to the point where we can look at each other and know what we’re thinking and we did that from the first week. Tanya: It’s not like that for, I would say, a majority of teams because they are, like pop groups, some of them are quite manufactured, they probably don’t want to be working with the person they are working with, so it’s quite forced and it comes through. Whereas as Steve said we knew each other, we liked each other, we got along really well and had fun outside of radio so it was like a glove, really easy. Steve: We surprise ourselves still now though with how in-tune we are. intouch: Why do you think you work so well together on air? Steve: I think and I was actually thinking about this last week, what I like in this partnership is that Tanya’s brought out in me something that I’ve never done in radio before and I think I’ve brought out something in Tanya that she’s never been. So what I think our partnership has done is I can get a bit deeper into things now, or I can talk a bit more newsy now and Tanya’s brought that out of me. I’ve probably brought out the stupid in Tanya (laughs), but I mean that in a really nice way, like just be silly, come on. Not that (Tanya wasn’t) before and not that I didn’t do serious before but I think we’ve brought out the best in each other of that. intouch: How much of your conversations on air and the topics you cover are planned beforehand? Steve: I think it’s about 70-30 (unplanned to planned) because that’s how in- tune we are, I’ll look and just go ‘I’ve got this thing’ and she’ll say ‘Ok, cool’, because of our trust. Tanya: It’s that word, trust, that exists between us, you have to trust the person, and we do, to know that they’re going to go in a direction and you can follow through. (Continued next page) ►
CCO OSSM MIICC CCO DEERR ND OU KEEN UN NTTRRYY W WEEEEK
29 SEPT - 1 OCT TH
ST
BELFORD, HUNTER VALLEY First round of artists for this wonderful festival
Cash Savage & The Last Drinks Immigrant Union Mark Olson & Ingunn Ringvold (US) William Crighton • Mel Parsons (NZ) Tim Easton (US) • Pony Face Lachlan Bryan & The Wildes Songs from Dan (NL) The Roamin’ Jasmine (US) Claire Anne Taylor Emma Russack Roadhouses A three-day camping music festival, accompanied by great American inspired food & booze, markets, kids activities & more.
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(Continued)
Steve: Follow through, that’s it, it’s like supporting, it’s like backing each other, if you’re going there I’ll come with you, rather than if you planned it - we don’t do this - but in younger teams they’ll plan a break and then if someone wanders off they spend too much time worrying about the fact they’ve wandered off, how do you get back to the plan. But then again in fairness we’ve been doing this for so long whereas the younger people have to learn that. It’s trust.
KOFM's new offices overlook the harbour - a far stretch from the old view-less studio in Charlestown. Photo credit - Skeye High Photography.
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That’s the one thing that breaks my heart that someone might think that (it’s scripted). Sometimes we might have something on the board and the song will be ending and I’ll lean in and say ‘grapes’ or Tanya will go ‘I just saw this’ and I’ll go ‘Ok’ because of that trust.
intouch: How long have you been working together as cohosts? Steve: How long love? (laughs) You know I always forget. Tanya: This is our fourth year. intouch: It actually seems like a lot longer than that because of how well you work together. Steve: That in itself is a great compliment. We’ve said occasionally we shouldn’t take this for granted, not that we do, but sometimes you can. We’re used to having, from a broadcasting point of view, what people can’t buy, or as you said earlier, slap together and pray for, so we shouldn’t take it for granted, it’s good.
Tanya: Wouldn’t that be exhausting, spending your whole career pretending, I don’t mean in bite-sized piece like actors, I mean for most of your day and then going out and putting that on, no. Steve: Oh, that would be horrible. Nic, our EP (Executive Producer) says that’s what she is most asked. ‘What are they really like?’ would be the most common question. If you try to be someone else, one day you’ll wake up, and you won’t be, and then you’ll be busted – it’s a really bad path to go down.
intouch: You look at actors, and they obviously have a different personality when they’re in front of the camera. Do you have a different personality in front of the mic? Steve: Sometimes the boss wishes we did (laughs) – no, we really don’t.
intouch: You both seem like you really love what to do and you want to go to work, which is a rare thing to find. How do you feel about having been in this industry for such a long time? Tanya: That is so true and I think we said it either today or yesterday, how fortunate we are to do what we love with people
that we really love and get along with – that’s not crap, we actually love working together and doing our thing. You can’t often say that. Steve: And because again, back to trust or whatever or because we think alike, there’s never too many issues of ‘I won’t do that on the show’ or ‘I don’t like where this is going,’ we just don’t have them and if we did I think we would be pretty quick to let each other know. So you avoid conflict straight away by just being honest, or, in our case, not knowing what we’re saying, it’s too late anyway (laughs) – I didn’t like what you said then. What that thing back then? All too late isn’t it. intouch: Finally, do you have one fun memory that sticks out from your time together? Tanya: Yes! This time last year when we launched Give Me 5 ►
Since 1971 the not for profit Adamstown Pudding Kitchen has been producing superb gourmet puddings famous for their moist consistency and full flavour. Sales are used to support a range of welfare and community programs in Newcastle and around the world.
Double Choc Cherry + Dark Choc & Vanilla Sauce
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The puddings and a new range of jams, pickles and sauces are available for tastings and purchase at the kitchen shopfront located behind the Adamstown Uniting Church, open each week day. Customers can also order the puddings online at www.adamstownpuddingkitchen.org.au, Bibina’s Warners Bay or check out their stall at the weekly Newcastle Farmers Market, Broadmeadow.
Steve: And I do, in the way (that) we For Kids we did it from atop a very, very both think differently, like as much as we’re tall scissor lift, we were up in the middle of in-tune we both come from different thought nowhere for the whole morning at Hunter patterns and there’s not a day where, and Stadium and they would not bring us down I mean this off air, that at some stage until we reached a certain target of money. And people were brilliant, truckies, mothers, we haven’t had a belly laugh tear (from kids were dropping money in our bucket, but laughing) that hard… the funniest moment for me is turning up every day. because (Steve) drinks a lot of coffee and Tanya: That’s very sweet, vice versa. because he’s got a 40-something-year-old Steve: It’s true though, we laugh every man’s bladder he wore man nappies for the day, even tired and cranky, somewhere in entire show (laughs). Steve: (deadpan) And it changed my life, there (we laugh). I remember I said to Tanya I’m wearing them right now, you might have when we started ‘I promise to at least once a day somewhere’ – remember that? – noticed I haven’t gone to the toilet once ‘make you laugh out loud, somewhere once during this entire interview. a day I promise’. Tanya: Occasionally I’d be yap, yap yap Tanya: You haven’t broken it yet. and then I’d think ‘Ok, he’s having a wee’ Steve: Oh there’s time (laughs), but I got (laughs). Steve: (deadpan) It was the greatest day the same in return. Funny moment is every day. But I’m glad (Tanya) thought of me of my life, I wear them to the pub on Friday night now, and people are like ‘How does he wearing a nappy for the magazine interview – thanks for that (both laugh uproariously). ■ do it?’ intouch: Did you talk about that on air? Steve: Yes, which goes to show that yes, I have no shame. Probably normally you’d think this would be something you’d keep on the quiet – but no, and with Tanya there was no chance. It’s funny, as you asked that question, I can’t (think of a funniest memory because) every day this girl makes me laugh somehow and I mean it, because she’s a nutter… Tanya: He means that in a nice way.
RAISING THE BAR AT RESERVE After three years, Reserve Wine Bar has had a name change and will be known simply as Reserve. Their emphasis on wine and food continues to be a key focus while offering customers a contemporary space to eat and drink in the heart of Newcastle. There’s also been a shift in the kitchen, with the team utilising the chargrill for the majority of the new look menu. New atmospheric lighting enhances the unique night time experience, and there are plans to create an outside area that enables customers to enjoy a European style piazza dining experience. Reserve has grown up and found its identity offering a seamless food and wine experience with the appointment of Sam Alexander as Head Chef. Sam has
This is an edited version of an interview intouch Magazine conducted with Tanya and Steve. You can laugh along with the Breakfast team on 102.9 KOFM from 6am weekdays. Many thanks to the people behind the scenes who made it possible for us to have a sneak peek into the amazing new studios and offices at Honeysuckle for our photo shoot.
found his niche at Reserve cooking bistro classics on the char-grill with his inimitable Mediterranean influences. After starting his career locally at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, Sam notched up time at two-hatted Fins of Byron Bay with seafood legend Steve Snow. Heading back to the Hunter, Sam worked under Robert Molines as head chef at Bistro Molines followed by a move to Sydney where he worked with Robert Marchetti at Icebergs and then Jeremy Strode of Bistro CBD (Merivale Group) where he was a senior sous chef. The wine list under co-owner Patrick Haddock’s guidance continues to command its presence as one of Newcastle’s largest and most engaging. Combining a mix of classic and modern wine labels as well as an ever-changing and diverse by the glass offering including a whole page devoted to Coravin. Check out the changes by joining the team at Reserve for an evening of food and wine discovery on the 27th of July. The Natural & Native Wine Dinner will pair some of Australia's most interesting organic, biodynamic and low intervention wines complemented by a five-course meal using primarily native NSW ingredients. Limited spaces are available so book your tickets now via www.reservewinebar.com.au
Hunter Street The First 100 Years at City Library A new exhibition, Newcastle's Hunter Street The First 100 years, based on a book by local historian and author Julie Keating, is now showing at Newcastle Region Library's Local History Lounge. The exhibition and book document the stories and early days of Hunter Street. Named after the second Governor of New South Wales, John Hunter, the city's main street stretches 3.4km from the ocean to the west end. The east-west roadway originally began at Watt Street but was later extended to provide better access to the coast. Many iconic buildings along its length reflect the history and business of the city.
"Hunter Street will continue to see many more changes over the next few years, so the exhibition is a timely reminder of where we’ve come from," Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said. "The street has been at the heart of the city and our celebrations and commemorations and the home of many government buildings, banks, hotels and department stores. "The buildings live to tell a story of a vibrant past even though many now serve a different purpose from their original use." The exhibition showcases a selection of images from the Library’s collection accompanied by a narrative written by Julie Keating. The exhibition will be on display at Newcastle Region Library, Local History Lounge until August 26th, 2017. Visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/Library for more information. Above - Hunter Street has long been the site for processions and marches. On the right of this photo is the City Bank of Sydney, one of the banking institutions which were concentrated in this area of Hunter Street. Goold Collection, Newcastle Region Library. Below, looking west down Hunter St - In 1885, the Australian Joint Bank purchased land at the end of Hunter Street. The building, which cost £4,000 to build, had a dome shaped roof which became a local landmark. Marcus Clarke's department store can be seen centre left. The intersection became locally known as "The Bank Corner". Crofts Collection, Newcastle Region Library.
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WHAT'S ON
WHAT’S HAPPENING DURING JULY AT
MORE CHOICE – MORE STORES OPENING SOON Visit the first Habitania store in The Hunter! Your new one stop shop for homewares, kitchenware and gift needs. Level 1 (in ex-Pumpkin Patch location).
MORE FUN! NEW KIOSK Build-A-Bear Workshop comes to Charlestown! Visit the recently opened Build-A-Bear kiosk located on Level 2 near The Secret Garden. Add a little more heart to life and make-your-own brand new furry best friend! A unique and fun experience for all ages, for all occasions.
in Newcastle this Winter? Plenty!
Even though there's a chill in the air, it's no time to be hibernating at home when there are loads of fun events and activities on in Newcastle throughout the winter. July and August will bring a feast of cultural activities to our city, with major exhibitions on at Newcastle Art Gallery, a new local history exhibition at Newcastle Museum and the heart of the season in full swing at the Civic Theatre. If you like your entertainment a little more on the loud side, the Newcastle International SuperMoto will be back in early September. Below are some of the highlighted activities in July, August and September. More information on these events can be found on Council's website, www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au - so get out and get busy!
Wallsend Winter Fair - Sunday 13 August, Wallsend. A free, fun-filled family day, this huge community street event attracts up to 30,000 visitors for amusement rides, food, 120 specialty stalls, music and dance performances, and a Grand Parade. Newcastle Jazz Festival - 25-27 August, Wests New Lambton. Come along and immerse yourself in the atmosphere with over 40 bands and a rich variety of music, including traditional jazz, mainstream, swing, blues, contemporary, jazz orchestra and big band.
Kids Entertainment Pass. Amazing value just $38 each. Purchase your kids passes these school holidays and enjoy a hot chocolate on us at Max Brenner! Conditions apply. Visit charlestownsquare.com.au
SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
READING CINEMAS - NOW SHOWING For session times visit readingcinemas.com.au - Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Long Haul - Despicable Me 3 - Cars 3
charlestownsquare.com.au
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Wallsend Winter Fair
GET FESTIVE
DON’T MISS OUT
Enjoy an action packed school holidays schedule. Visit charlestownsquare.com.au for the full list of events and offers!
Newcastle Museum - www.newcastlemuseum.com.au RAD - On until 27 August, Newcastle Museum. Inspired by the book Radical Newcastle (2015), this exhibition charts the history of ‘radicalism’ in Newcastle and the Hunter, revealing stories of protest and a long tradition of political activism.
Landscape with Monsters, Civic Theatre
BONUS OFFERS
WHAT’S ON
Mr Stink - 25-26 July, Civic Theatre. A touching, twisted and hilarious, and very smelly tale directed by Newcastle favourite, Jonathan Biggins. David Walliams’ award-winning book comes to life for children 6-12… and their adults! Landscape with Monsters - 19-22 July, Civic Theatre. From Circa, this contemporary circus work is a physical, acrobatic symphony to the joyous complexity of being human created in response to the uncertainty of evolving industrial landscapes. The Merchant of Venice - Friday 1 September, Civic Theatre. From Bell Shakespeare, this uncompromising production explores the tense relationships between those that have, and those that don’t, taking audiences on a journey of love, mercy and justice.
GET REVVED UP GET CULTURED
Looking to attend a unique exhibition or enjoy a captivating night out? Look no further than Newcastle's art gallery, museum or the Civic Theatre, where you can find some of the best arts and cultural events in our city.
Newcastle International SuperMoto. 2-3 September, Newcastle Showgrounds. A mix of road racing and motocross on a track with road and dirt sections, this event hosts some of the best riders from around the world for the FIM Oceania SuperMoto Championships.
GET OUTDOORS
If you still have an excess of winter energy and you're looking to burn it off, get outdoors for some fresh air and fun in the sun. Staying active in the winter helps everyone stay healthier and happier, so bring the family along! There is so much to do outdoors in Newcastle all year round. Grab your bike, scooter or skateboard and explore the Bathers Way, stopping along the way for morning tea or lunch. Take a tunnel tour at Fort Scratchley and soak up some local history. Visit the animals at Blackbutt Reserve, enjoy the opportunity to get up close and personal at the Reptile Show and check the schedule for feeding times. Newcastle is home to some world-class lookouts for whale Civic Theatre - www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au spotting, from Nobbys Headland to King Edward Park and The Age of Consent - 19-22 July, Civic Playhouse. This chilling Strzelecki Lookout, so organise a whale watching expedition. and powerful play, performed to full houses at the Royal You could also get on your bikes, head to the Tramway Track, Exchange, exposes the psyches of two different characters. But and cycle the 3.65km shared pathway from Wallsend to what lies behind their seemingly honest appraisal of their lives? Glendale. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Newcastle Art Gallery - www.nag.org.au The Phantom Show - On until 20 August, Newcastle Art Gallery. 'The Ghost who walks' returns to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Art Gallery's building with the largest collection of Phantom-inspired art, including 14 newly created works by Novocastrian artists. Kilgour Prize 2017 - 5 August - 15 October, Newcastle Art Gallery. Newcastle's prestigious annual art prize for figurative and portrait painting awards $50,000 for the most outstanding work of art each year. This exhibition showcases the finalists in the competition.
Music
Aussies to Don Their Denim for Children’s Medical Research The countdown is on! Friday 4 August has officially been announced as this year’s Jeans for Genes Day, the iconic annual fundraiser for the Children’s Medical Research Institute. (CMRI). Did you know that genetic disease currently affects one in 20 Australian kids? On average, that’s around one in every classroom. The Children’s Medical Research Institute is working hard to find ways to treat these kids and help prevent others from ever experiencing cancer, epilepsy, congenital disabilities and genetic diseases in our future. However, they need your help!
Jeans for Genes Day is your opportunity to Join the Movement, help raise much-needed funds for the Children’s Medical Research Institute and support the amazing work that researchers carry out to find a cure. Grab your craziest denim looks and encourage your friends to join in the fun. Once you’ve planned your outfit, visit www.jeansforgenes.org.au to register yourself, school, local club or workplace. You can also pledge to be part of the campaign by sharing your denim outfit on social media using the hashtags #JeansForGenesAU #JoinTheMovement
artists, the songs, the culture, the legacy, the vibe,” says promoter Matt Johnston. In 2017, Johnston and the Dashville team will bring some amazing talent from all around the globe to the humble confines of Dashville at Lower Belford. International artists include Mark Olson, a former member of alt-country heroes The Jayhawks, and Ingunn Ringvold of Norway, plus Tim Easton from Nashville, Dan Tuffy’s new musical project Songs From Dan (an expat based in the Netherlands), Mel Parsons from New Zealand and New Orleans jazz band The Roamin’ Jasmine. Australian artists announced in the first round include Cash Savage and The Last Drinks, William Crighton, Immigrant Union, Claire Anne Taylor, Lachlan Bryan and The Wildes, Pony Face, Emma Russack and Roadhouses. “Dashville Skyline is about getting the best artists and songwriters together in one location, sharing this timeless music, kicking back and having a bit of fun over a lazy long weekend,” Johnston says. The festival’s name derives from that of Bob Dylan’s 1968 release Nashville Skyline, The third annual Dashville Skyline, Australia’s which lends an impression of the vibe of very own Cosmic Country Weekender, has just this festival. It’s a celebration of alternative country, its birth in America during the announced a portion of artists heading to its hallowed bushland home in the Hunter Valley ‘60s-‘70s, the culture that surrounds the music and the evolution that continues to this October Long Weekend. inspire modern day songwriters. A celebration of alternative country As such, one of the main spectacles music and culture in its varied forms, the of the festival is the immensely popular three-day camping festival hosts over 30 live Sunset Super Round. Each year artists on performances, mouth-watering Americanthe bill step onto the main stage, often as a inspired food and bevvies, boutique market stalls, an animal petting zoo and much more. collaboration, to pay homage to their favourite songs of the “golden era”. Held at the same location as The Gum Dashville Skyline is at Dashville, Lower Ball, Dashville Skyline provides an amazing Belford, from Friday, September 29 to Sunday, experience for music lovers and has earned October 1 – the October long weekend. a reputation over the last few years as the More artists will be announced later ultimate weekend escape, full of laid-back this month, but tickets are available now country-esque music and good ol’ family fun. through Dashville’s store, head to “Essentially it’s a festival celebrating www.dashville.com.au. Glamping options the roots of Americana, psychedelia and are also available through Simple Pleasures alternative country music. From the golden era of the mid-'60s through to today's modern Camping Co. Cash Savage
TREKKING THE WORLD... AND THE STAGE
When he's not behind the microphone, Nick is in front of the camera, travelling the world with National Geographic Channel as a presenter. He has travelled to destinations such as Papua New Guinea, New York, Christmas Island, South America and more to come. "There's two things I really love in life. Travelling and music. Nat Geo is amazing. They give me the opportunity to experience and document cultures, environments and people from around the globe. It's what fuels Local boy Nick Saxon certainly knows how my inspiration; the places, and the people." to express himself! The International singerUnder Wizards Beard Studios, Nick also songwriter and presenter for the National Geographic Channel has crafted his vagabond produces films, edits and writes his own short films, as well as the soundtracks. But it’s not lifestyle into beautiful dreamscapes with just Nick Saxon's catalogue that has people the help of warm vocals, lyrical magic and talking. He has an engaging charm and dancing acoustics to accompany either the contagious presence on stage. You can't help committed fan or the passerby. but stop and join in the moment. With over a million combined plays on See him live at Lizotte's Newcastle on Spotify, his latest EP has kept hold of his August 4th, 2017. Visit www.lizottes.com.au listeners, as well as attract a whole new for tickets. demographic, including national radio guru's (Source: www.nationalgeographic.com.au) Triple J.
Nick Saxon
Sitkovetsky Trio
Win!
Touring nationally with Musica Viva, the Sitkovetsky Trio is made up of three extraordinary musicians; each trained at the famous Menuhin School with countless prizes to their name. When brought
together their music making is nothing short of miraculous. Experience bold masterworks by Shostakovich and Rachmaninoff, Mendelssohn’s invigorating lust for life and Australian composer Lachlan Skipworth's homage to the 'pounding wave' performed with the trio’s signature virtuosity and exuberance. Don't miss the Sitkovetsky Trio as they turn the piano trio into a mini orchestra with Musica Viva this July! Thanks to Musica Viva we have 5 double passes to giveaway to the Newcastle concert at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, on the 20 July, 7:30pm. Enter via our Giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au. Be quick – entries close July 13 2017.
AMERICANA RULES
at Three Day Music Festival
www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17
What's On?
Reaching Out to Fashionistas Helps Save Lives
Jason Fox at Designer Depot
WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Features Writer
What Lies Within...
THIS MONTH AT CHG Until July 17th, 2017 you can enjoy the beautiful new works of Newcastle based contemporary artist Tracey-Maree Smith at Cooks Hill Galleries with her stunning exhibition “What Lies Within.” The artists works will grace not only the gallery walls but also the galleries website with this very special gallery + online exhibition. Ms Smith was recently selected as an Art Gallery NSW 2016 Wynne Prize finalist for her work ‘First Creek, Redhead Beach.’ The Wynne prize is one of Australia’s most prestigious art awards and presented for Australia’s best landscape painting. In 2014 Tracey was also included in the Saatchi Art Showdown - an online competition that gives artists from all over the world a chance to showcase their work and have it judged by internationally acclaimed artists and curators. Tracey has exhibited extensively, with her work hanging in public and private collections. Her abstract contemporary works appeal to art collectors, whether it be those seeking a major showpiece for their home, office or an addition to an existing collection. For more information and catalogue visit www.cookshillgalleries.com.au
Lifeline Hunter Central Coast is on a mission to change the face of charity shopping – and help save lives. The organisation is looking to increase the number of people who shop in their stores by reaching out to new customers who might previously have never considered visiting a Lifeline fashion outlet. Part of that process has been to launch the Label for Lives campaign, which urges people to donate their much-loved, but no longer needed, high-end fashion to Lifeline. The highly coveted labels will be sold through Lifeline’s Designer Depot, which recently relocated into a new boutique behind their existing Hamilton North store. Retail operations manager Jason Fox said people often didn’t want to part with that special piece of fashion, which they may have paid hundreds or even thousands of dollars for, only to see it end up on a $2 rack. But by donating it to a charity that will actually appreciate its value, the former owner of the fashion item can be assured it will end up being loved by another fashionista, while also raising crucial funds for a worthy cause. “A couple of staff members and I were talking about the good things that we hold onto in our wardrobe. We all had something in our wardrobes that we were hesitant to donate, it didn’t fit us anymore, it was really expensive, but we didn’t want to donate them traditionally as they could end up on a $2 rack somewhere,” Jason said. “So we wanted to make a commitment to our customers – gift that one piece to us and we will sell it for what its actual value is, and you can be happy knowing your good product that you’re never going to wear again will go to benefit suicide prevention and crisis support.” Jason said they have had a wonderful response from customers and donors since launching the campaign last month, with the collection of women’s clothes, shoes and
accessories including brands such as Tiffany, Louis Vitton, Camilla & Marc, Alannah Hill, Mark Jacobs, and Michael Kors. “We’ve got some amazing products coming through, we’ve got some beautiful Chanel shoes, we’ve got Valentino shoes, we have gorgeous Carla Zampatti dresses, the list goes on. “People are proudly saying they bought it from the Designer Depot, they’re actually proud to post on their Instagram and their Facebook ‘Look what I found at the Lifeline Designer Depot’, rather than hiding that by saying ‘I bought that from a charity shop, don’t tell anyone’ and that’s kind of cool.” Aside from the Designer Depot campaign, Jason has been using his 30-year background in retail to help change the image of charity shopping and increase Lifeline’s customer base. Lifeline Hunter Central Coast relies on revenue from its fashion and retail stores to help fund its telephone crisis support and face to face counselling services. “We’ve had Lifeline stores in the Hunter and Newcastle since the early 80s, and we’ve got really loyal fantastic customers. But what we need to do is expand our services – we need to attract new customers to our stores, people that wouldn’t necessarily shop in a charity shop. “We want those guys to come into our stores and actually feel like they’re in a store that they can relate to, that’s how we get growth in our revenue through the stores, and that’s how we can actually expand on our suicide prevention and crisis support services.” The new look Designer Depot is open 10am to 3pm every day at 54 Clyde Street, Hamilton North.
Looking for quality, yet affordable furniture made from beautiful Australian plantation hardwood that is hand made locally? Looking for furniture that’s fresh and contemporary, where you can have your own design ideas created? Look no further than Wildflower Giftware! Open 6 Days Monday to Saturday 9am till 4.30pm.
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tassietimbers timeless
IVALDI FURNITURE
www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19
Home + Lifestyle
Expo Full of Ideas for
CREATIVE LIVING WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Features Writer
He was the man behind the Hunter’s original Home Show concept, the event co-ordinator who helped deliver renovation inspiration to thousands of home owners across the region. And now after several years break from the exhibition scene, Phil Collins has returned to help turn building and renovation dreams into reality with the all new 2017 Newcastle Regional Home Expo. The three-day event will be staged at Newcastle Entertainment Centre from July 21-23, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the latest in building trends, materials, products and home innovation, as well as organise quotes and personally meet the specialists in these fields. Aimed at home owners, those who plan to build or renovate and anyone who dreams of creating a home to be proud of, the Newcastle Regional Home Expo will showcase some of the best in the business, proving that you don’t need to travel outside of the Hunter to find quality products and services. Thousands of visitors from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the wider Hunter, as well as places further afield such as the New England, Central and North Coast regions are expected to flock to the Broadmeadow venue for the new-look Home Expo, which will provide a source of home innovation inspiration from the turf up to the roof tiles and everywhere in between. Whether you’re searching for the latest gadgets to turn your house into a smart technology home, or you want to start from scratch and need home building and design ideas, the Newcastle Regional Home Expo has got you covered. 20 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
Those looking to give their home a facelift, or keen to upgrade to the latest products will also be well catered for, with exhibitors offering everything from paint and decorating ideas to tiling and flooring options. Exhibitors of window coverings, home appliances, indoor and outdoor furniture, garden design, pools and spas and do-it-yourself products will complete the mix. “The Home Expo event is designed to promote the latest in home-related products starting from the ground up to the roof top and to showcase the specialist businesses based here in the Hunter, who are qualified and well-versed to handle your specific needs,” Phil said. “These days it is no longer necessary to travel further than the Hunter’s own back door to find quality products and services as the Hunter home industry can stand alone, known for its excellence and high professionalism.” The Home Expo will give visitors an opportunity to learn as well as look, with a rotating schedule of demonstrations and presentations covering everything from finance through to landscaping and period decorating set to add a dash of education, interaction and entertainment to the event. A mirrored theatrette will provide the perfect setting for a series of cooking demonstrations throughout the weekend, while another space will be used to bring the outside in with the “Your Backyard” display. This display, complete with artificial turf, outdoor kitchen or barbeque area, outdoor furniture, decorator items and potted
plants, is designed as an example of what can be achieved by those trying to bring a garden to life in their small courtyard space. “Your Backyard will be a bigger presentation stand bringing together four or five exhibitors and their products, and the idea is to show people what they can do with their small backyard or courtyard,” Phil said. “The 2017 Newcastle Regional Home Expo will have guest speakers, cooking demonstrations, interactive elements and a lot of great exhibitors, including a number who were there at the first Home Show I ever organised. “I just love doing these things, we’ve spent the last couple of months organising it, and we’re committed to putting on a really great event.” Phil has a long history of coordinating home and leisure exhibitions, having pioneered the Home Show concept in the Hunter around 15 years ago. He spent more than a decade running the flagship Newcastle event, which was held each year in July at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre and regularly attracted more than 10,000 visitors during the three days. “I used to do a number of home and leisure shows in Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie, Wollongong, Penrith and Lake Macquarie, I enjoyed doing the expos,” Phil said. “I then established the Home Show in Newcastle at the Entertainment Centre and ran it for 13 years – it grew to arguably become one of the biggest home shows in NSW outside of the capital city, with 10,000 to 11,000 people visiting over the three-day show. “I took a break from it all for a few years but now I’m back, and I’m ready to launch this all new Newcastle Regional Home Expo, organising it under the banner of MD Marketing.” With the Hunter a proven hotbed of home building and renovating activity, Phil said there was a real demand in the market for a quality Home Expo, with July the ideal time to stage the event. “I’ve always held it over a Friday, Saturday and Sunday in July because I believe people who want to buy things related to their homes do it in the winter,” he said. “In my opinion, by the spring people have already decided what they want to do in their gardens or what they want to do in home improvements or a new kitchen. They start to think about it in winter because they’re home a lot of the time and they’re making these observations about their house like maybe we need to get it painted or maybe we need to get a new roof.” One lucky Home Expo visitor will also walk away with more than just some inspiration and ideas, with a $15,000 spa up for grabs courtesy of Spa World, Warners Bay. To be in the running simply fill out a form and pop it in the entry box, located on the Spa World stand. The Newcastle Regional Home Expo will be open daily from 10am to 4pm. Entry costs $10 for adults, $8 for pensioners and seniors concession card holders, with accompanied children under 16 years free.
Visit www.newcastleregionalhomeexpo.com.au for more information or for businesses interested in securing a stand at the 2017 event, contact Phil Collins on 0407 496 933.
Winter
CHANGES
Our Home, Lifestyle and Décor. WORDS DEBORAH BARTLETT insideout Newcastle T’is the season we like to stay at home! In winter, home interiors become more personal and important. We like to rush home and curl up amongst the feather filled cushions and throws on our cosy sofa. The new colours out for 2017 are a great way to change the feel of an interior and add that winter cosiness. The grey-beige (greiges as they have been called) are replacing the whites that are always popular. This neutral can be still very light, and it goes well with the popular greens, navy and earthy tones that are trending. These tones are a trend that you can live with for a long time – way past the winter months. On a cold winter day, our homes are a preferred destination after a hard day’s work. Creating a cosy atmosphere and warmer feel will help beat “the winter blues.” We tend to hibernate more indoors in the coldest months. The verdict is still out on the pros and cons of a fabric sofa or a leather one, but my preference is a fabric sofa, as there are so many more fabric options that are both beautiful to sit on and practical. Our knowledgeable team can direct you to fabrics that are Teflon coated, easily cleaned and feel amazing to sit on. Choose a darker colour for a growing family as this will offer a piece of mind but sometimes not completely necessary. A better quality, well-chosen fabric will look great for a longer length of time and will be easily cleaned. Layer your sofa with feather filled cushions, custom made by insideout to make the most of your décor and
bring your desired look together. Finish with a beautiful throw to wrap around you and a lovely fur (faux or real) to add to the feeling of cosiness. Faux fur or real fur are becoming more popular in our homes. I like to know where our furs come from so they have been ethically sourced. An Icelandic sheepskin, deer hide or cow hide will make an instant makeover. Sheepskin or deer hide thrown over a sofa, chair or on the end of your bed will give an instant touch of luxury and warmth. Cowhides can be laid over existing rugs to add to the warm feel of a room and to extend the floor covering of your existing rug. Cowhides can be seen in patchwork and decorative patterns, are a very hardy choice for your floors and easily kept clean. If fur isn't something you would consider then try layering your cushions with some velvets and woollen textured cushions or throws. Velvets can also add a touch of luxury and warmth especially if it is a feather filled cushion. This winter has seen some thicker rugs being introduced to ranges. A shaggy woollen rug with a tribal pattern through it can add to the Nordic charm that is a popular look in our homes. Colours are mostly in creams and charcoals or the reverse, a charcoal rug with a cream pattern. See our new ranges in store. This month I am writing this article in Alaska! It's no surprise that this is possibly the best place in the world to conjure up images of the intended changes to my own home when I return! Any questions? Drop us an email to info@insideoutstyle.com.au or visit our website at www.insideoutstyle.com.au
FROM ONE PIECE TO A WHOLE HOUSE OUR INHOUSE DESIGNERS WILL HELP YOU FIND YOUR STYLE! make an appointment today!
192 parry street, newcastle west, nsw 2302 t 02 4962 5577 f 02 4962 5588 w www.insideoutstyle.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21
Family + Community
ON TOUR WITH THE KID
The Happiest Place on Earth WORDS CHLOE SULLIVAN On the list of things that annoy me, and it's a long list, is a rant I recently saw on social media. This is the short version of what was a three paragraph long complaint. It was penned by a female acquaintance, who had been waiting for three months for her husband to install the brackets so that she could hang her curtains. A string of replies followed, the summation of which seemed to be "yes men are hopeless aren't they" and a chorus of "you go girl". Here is my question, why on earth would a seemingly sensible woman in her 40's be waiting ninety days for anyone else to do something she could have easily done herself. It has always been my understanding that the phrase "you go girl" is meant as recognition that said girl had done something empowering. In this case, I feel like it should have been replaced with "for goodness sake woman, go and buy yourself a drill!� Why you wouldn't use any excuse possible to take a trip to the utopia that is Bunning's is beyond me. This may be a good time to mention that I have a Bunning's obsession. For a while, the kid and I were spending so much
time there, that the greeters at the front door were using our first names. The alluring smell of the humble sausage sanga that hits you as soon as you enter the car park draws you inside, and once you walk through the doors, it's like a whole new world (cue the theme song from Aladdin). A world where, thanks to some simple DIY, you could build your own retaining wall, grow your own vegetables and find the perfect storage solution for the clutter that is currently taking up space in your dining room. Aside from the products on the shelves, it's the staff that makes Bunning's stand out. I have my favourite man in the paint department. We talked about his charity work and his wife as he helped me pick the perfect paint to spray on old car tyres so I could make my redneck snowman in time for Christmas. Not only did he remember us on the next visit and ask to see photos of our little project but congratulated the kid on her sensational decorating skills. The guys in the timber department were all very helpful when I purchased everything I needed to make the kids outdoor kitchen with the new drill I had received for Mothers Day. They didn't blink an eye when I told them I was buying a sheet of marine ply so that I could use it to write our letter for the Breakfast Club and hang it in my kitchen. Even when I don't know what I'm looking for, they help me. I once walked in and told the staff I had seen a guy in Seattle do artwork on the footpath that only appears when the concrete gets wet. By that afternoon I had a piece of magic in the driveway that sends the kid running outside when she hears rain begin to fall. They have never made me feel silly for asking what I'm sure were very silly questions, and I always walk out the door knowing something I didn't know before. There are workshops and classes to teach you anything you could possibly think of and even DIY for the kids. â–ş
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t c e n n Co Create Celebrate Engaging young minds to be
globally aware
ngs.nsw.edu.au
Wandering the aisles last month, just when I thought I couldn't love the place any more than I do, a man named Howard approached me to ask if I'd like to use the power tools. In less than five minutes he had helped me turn a chunk of wood into this beautiful cheese board that now takes pride of place in our kitchen. Let's face it, Howard is a legend. They really shine on special occasions like the recent Mothers Day event. There was free pizza, moving dinosaurs, craft for the kids and a jumping castle. We stepped outside into the car park to find one of every fire pit they had alight, outdoor furniture set up as if for a party and a very cheerful staff member cooking us corn on the cob over an open flame. Bunning's really is the happiest place on earth. ■
Markets
CAMERON BEAU WYLIE FOSTER
Building Strong Learning Foundations
aka ‘Beau Wylie’ WORDS LAURA ROBERTS for The Olive Tree Market
WORDS ERICA THOMAS Head of Newcastle Grammar School 21st Century Primary students are being shaped in different times and have different characteristics, expectations, and communication styles – therefore engaging effectively with today’s students and their families requires new strategies, solutions, and approaches. Primary education has always focused on addressing the academic needs of students along with monitoring and encouraging their social and emotional wellbeing. Students today need more. They require encouragement to develop independence from a young age and to learn how to think for themselves. We need to engage young people in inquiring into how they learn. It is vital that Primary students are explicitly taught to develop skills that act as important assets to them as learners – across the curriculum, and in life. Some of these life skills include thinking, collaborating, self-managing, researching and communication. We need to ensure that our teaching and learning supports students’ effort to gain an understanding of the world and to function effectively in it. Students need to be explicitly taught personal values so that they can build a foundation on which international-mindedness will flourish. Our children today need to be able to engage with people in an increasingly globalised, rapidly changing world. The content and skills within teaching programmes need to incorporate both local and global issues.
E AT TH
While there is research to suggest that class size does not matter in early years’ education, experience tells us that it does. That is why we ensure our students at Newcastle Grammar School are in small classes for their first years of schooling. A small class size helps create a child centred climate for learning. Quality teaching has so much to do with closely observing and carefully monitoring how a child learns. A small class size empowers learners as each child’s learning journey is more personal. Strong learning foundations at an early age are the building blocks needed for a child to successfully negotiate the future. For more information about Newcastle Grammar School visit www.ngs.nsw.edu.au
Slippery squids and koalas driving convertibles? It can only be Cam “Beau Wylie” Foster! Since 2012 Beau Wylie Illustration has been busy producing a diverse selection of greeting cards and art prints, drawing inspiration from the whimsey of life. I’m excited to hear about how Cam’s settling in, having recently moved from Sydney to Newcastle, so we meet at a local cafe to talk about art, markets and our favourite animals. “I fell in love with drawing when I was studying architecture,” Cam explains. “I realised I didn’t want to be an architect, so I started making greeting cards and selling them here and there around Sydney. I worked in a bookshop at the time, so I put them out to see how people reacted to them.” Before long Cam had stalls at Finders Keepers and Paddington Markets in Sydney, as well as Newcastle’s leading art and design market The Olive Tree Market. “The Olive Tree Market has an awesome vibe. It’s a destination that people go to not just to shop but to hang out. In Sydney people just come, buy and leave,” says Cam. Are there any particular challenges you face as a stall holder? “Setting up is tiring, especially when I was driving back and forth from Sydney. It’s worth it though. Even when the weather is bad people still come and support us. There’s real value to having face-to-face contact with customers. A lot of people ask me how I made stuff, so it’s good to be able to explain and answer questions. People could just go online to buy things, but then there’s no sense of that back story. If you’re going to have something for ages, like art, it’s good to have some
connection beyond just what the image is.” You have a real spectrum of work. How do you decide what you’re going to draw next? “Some people don’t realise I’ve made all my products because they’re quite different, but I just like to try out loads of styles and techniques. For the first six months, I drew a lot of octopuses in different situations which helped people remember my stall. I think that kind of made up for my lack of experience. “A lot of my illustrations are animals because they’re so good at communicating simple emotions. Humans have style, clothes, skin colour and all that affects how people react to it. For cards, the whole point is the sentiment behind it, and animals are better at delivering that.” Do you have a favourite animal? “Probably dogs, because I get to hang out with them.” As I look through Cam’s work, I connect with so many different characters. From a pouting pug to a lonely whale, Cam employs a mix of humour and melancholia to suit any occasion. I‘m curious to know more about his process in creating them. “I think of the animal and draw it a few different ways. As I keep sketching it reveals itself. I always sketch by hand. When I work on the computer it’s too easy to press undo, so you don’t run with mistakes where interesting things are hidden. I’m not completely traditional, but I do like to make something wholly on paper sometimes. It’s more satisfying and requires more patience. I work on paper as much as I can.” Does the pressure of being a commercial artist ever stand in the way of creativity? “I’m not a purist; I just like to make stuff. I like the process and making stuff that looks good and will make people happy. I don’t think working this way kills creativity because I just don’t take on work that I find boring. I’m not going to become a robot; I’ll work with people who are willing to be surprised.” As well as greeting cards Cam now sells original art print and assorted merchandise. I ask him what’s next on the agenda. “There might be a collaboration with my friend on a children’s book, but I don’t want to give too much away. I’ll also be looking for a studio, hopefully with a few other people. Seeing others doing stuff can motivate you if you get stuck in a rut, whereas working from home is making me stir-crazy. I also need a fair bit of room because I’m messy.”
Beau Wylie Illustration uses 100% postconsumer recycled paper and vegetable inks. Visit www.beauwylie.com or The Olive Tree Market on 6th May. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 23
Health & Wellbeing
BASIC WEIGHT TRAINING for Beginners 5 Handy Tips! WORDS DANIEL KILPATRICK Personal Trainer at Planet Fitness Lambton
Are you tired of going to the gym and getting on the same bike or treadmill every day? Or is running just not really your thing? Or maybe you feel fit, but you just want to look toned or get stronger? Well, perhaps it’s time you gave weights a try! Weight training has many benefits besides just trying to burn calories.
These include increased bone density, increased strength of muscles and other connective tissue, decreased likelihood of injury, and improved ability to perform more strenuous tasks found in day to day life, just to name a few. Many people are already familiar with the benefits weight training can have on our health, but not all know how to train with weights safely. So, if you're new to or looking to try out weight training, here are five handy hints and tips you can implement to improve your exercise regime! 1. GOOD POSTURE This is considered the crux of all forms of weight training and plays a crucial part in ensuring this form of training remains beneficial to your health. It doesn’t matter if you are using a few small weights to help you get toned, or are a competitive weightlifter. This point is essential for all! Good posture engages your core muscles and is the foundation for your power, and it goes akin with injury prevention in terms of lifting safely. In simple terms, stand up straight and shoulders back! 2. RELAX, TAKE A DEEP BREATH Perhaps the easiest trick to implement into your weights regime is breathing. Breathing helps relax and centre your focus on good posture and form while lifting weights. It plays a key role in your body’s ability to control blood pressure, which is elevated during weights training. To ensure you have the correct breathing pattern, inhale before the lift, then exhale on exertion. So basically, breath out on the hard part! 3. FULL RANGE OF MOTION First, I will start off by saying yes there are styles of advanced training where implementing partial movements is beneficial for an individual’s training. However, for most of us, this is not the case. To ensure we remain anatomically efficient movers in our day-to-day lives, a consistent full range of motion will achieve the best results. So ensure you go all the way down and up as long as it’s comfortable.
4. PROGRESSIVE OVERLOAD A simple yet difficult concept, this basically means gradually make it harder each time. There are many ways of doing this, but the simplest way is to lift a little heavier each time you do weights. Now for those of you who don’t yet know what reps and sets are; “reps” are the number of times you perform the action, and sets are how many times you repeat the number of reps. For example, three sets of 12 reps of push ups, means do 12 push ups three times. Still with me? Keeping all this in mind you want to aim to complete each set, but also feel tired by the end of each one. You do not want to hit 12 reps feel like you could have done 20! Be sure to push yourself to achieve the best results as always, just be aware of your limits. 5. STRETCH, STRETCH, STRETCH! This is particularly important when taking up a weights program. When lifting weights, the muscle is encouraged to become shorter and tighter as we train it. Some simple stretching at the end of your workout can counteract this. The muscles and joints in your body will maintain their full range of motion and can prevent injury to the muscles and joints down the track. In other words, stretch, stretch, stretch! These five simple hints and tips you can implement to your new weights regime if you are looking to try something different and expand your horizons. My last advice I will part with you, however, is always to seek help where needed. Learning something new is never easy, so always seek help from a personal trainer if you aren’t sure or would like a program that is tailored to you. If you have any reason for concern about starting a new program, always feel free to see your local GP before diving in. And finally keep an open mind, get out of your comfort zone and enjoy it! ■
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Mix & Stretch Stretching is something that’s commonly undertaken before and/or after exercise, as it’s perceived to loosen muscles, which prepares them for a workout and reduces the risk of injury. What may be less known is that there are multiple types of stretches that might have different effects on different muscles and therefore different outcomes. Static Stretching (SS) is the most common form and is where a muscle is held in a stretched position for 10 – 60 seconds. SS is perceived to improve the range of muscular motion and performance and reduce injury. Dynamic Stretching (DS) lengthens a muscle through motion, for example, straight leg swinging to pull and lengthen hamstring muscles and tendons. Finally, Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF), commonly used by sports scientists and physiotherapists, involves holding an SS, then contracting the muscle, then holding another SS. This type of stretching is thought to help release and lengthen muscles and allow a greater range of motion. With various types of stretching available, it’s difficult to know which one works best for specific outcomes. A group of sports
scientists in Western Australia reviewed the current literature on stretching and came to a few conclusions. They found that all types of stretching improved muscular performance. It was difficult to ascertain which type of stretching was best as each type had different effects on various muscles. A consistent benefit found with all stretching was an improvement in the Range Of Motion (ROM), which lasted during exercise and for at least half an hour after completion. No form of exercise was found to reduce the rate of injury. While stretching wasn’t found to reduce injury rates in this study, the researchers concluded that it is possibly beneficial to include warm up and warm down SS and DS in your exercise regime. Stretching may be the best way to improve the range of motion in joints prior to working out. Start slowly and gradually build up the intensity and duration of each hold as you progress.
WATER: The Best Ingredient for a Diet There are many weird and wonderful diets that all claim to promote weight loss. Very few fad diets, however, deliver lasting weight loss or ensure good health. One weight loss aid that most of us wouldn’t think of is plain water. Plain water (in this study) was defined as water out of a tap, water fountain or from a bottle. How plain water may affect food intake have not been well studied, but it’s thought consuming water before a meal may help promote feelings of fullness. Researchers looked at the effect of water on food consumption in 18,000 adults. They found that for every one percent increase in plain water consumption, daily energy intake fell by about 36 kilojoules. Accompanying this energy fall was a fall in daily consumption of sugar, salt, saturated fat and cholesterol. On
average, participants in the study were drinking around one litre of plain water each day. This study suggests that consuming plain water could aid in lowering the amount of kilojoules consumed. It’s important to note that this research found an association between water drinking and food intake so does not confirm that drinking water will always lead to fewer kilojoules consumed. Nevertheless, drinking plain water is important for various aspects of our health and could also replace the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, which are notoriously bad for health and promote weight gain.
Take the Challenge and Enjoy the Views!
Caves Beach coastline before following it down through Catherine Hill Bay and as far south as Frazer Beach before the course turns back on itself and then twists its way north through the national park bushland to the finish line at the resort. A 1km kids’ fun run will also return in WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN 2017, offering a chance for the younger Features Writer members of the family to join in the outdoor adventure with a course that winds around Hundreds of runners looking to get off Raffertys Resort. The kids’ race caters for the beaten track will converge on Lake Macquarie this month to test their speed and those aged 5 to 12, with all runners receiving an official race number plate and finisher’s endurance on a less familiar terrain. medal. Now in its third year, Raffertys Coastal Making the most of the rising interest in Run will be held on Saturday, July 8, trail running, the Lake Macquarie event has challenging entrants to tackle everything grown in popularity each year, with more than from single-width bush tracks and fire trails 700 runners tackling the challenging coastal to rock platforms and beach running. Beginning and ending at Raffertys Resort terrain in 2016. Founder and Event Director of the in Cams Wharf, the course snakes its way through the Wallarah National Park, taking in sold-out Coastal Classic trail run, Gary Farebrother, said they were expecting even the sights of beautiful Lake Macquarie, the bigger crowds this year at the Raffertys stunning coastline of historic Catherine Hill race, which offers a truly impressive off-road Bay and the Munmorah State Conservation running experience. Area. “The 35km Raffertys course rivals the The event was created in 2015 by the challenge and sheer beauty of the Coastal team at Maximum Adventure, following in Classic,” he said. the footsteps of their other popular trail “Running along these trails feels like runs, including the iconic Coastal Classic you are on a remote coastline, it is simply in the Royal National Park, which are held spectacular. throughout NSW each year. “When the word gets out, I’m expecting Raffertys Coastal Run caters for runners this event to match the popularity of the of all abilities with three race distances on Coastal Classic; it has all the elements of offer – 11km, 22km and 35km. being a truly iconic trail run.” The 11km course makes its way out to But it wasn’t just the number of entrants Point Morisset and along the coast before that set a new record during the 2016 event, heading inland through Wallarah National with race times also slashed in the longer Park and winding its way back to Raffertys Resort, while the 22km trail also takes in the two distances. This included Brendan Davies, stunning coastal scenery from Quarries Head who was racing in the veteran (30-49 years) category, shaving a massive 10 minutes off (south of Caves Beach) and as far south as the benchmark set in the 35km race the year Baldy Cliff. before. Those tackling the gruelling 35km (continued next page) ► distance also make it all the way over to the www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 25
PREVENTING THE DREADED LURGY...
Naturally!
WORDS SONYA TODD-JONES Dip Health Sciences (Pathology), Dip Practice Management, Dip RM. Owner & Manager of Mojo Health Charlestown.
(Continued) However, the focus in trail running isn’t just about time, with event organisers attributing the growing popularity of this type of event to the difference it offers compared to standard road races. “Numbers have been increasing across these events anecdotally because people are looking for an enjoyable experience off-road where they can get some exercise, explore the different scenery and challenge themselves at the same time, as opposed to road running, which can be monotonous and too heavily focused on speed at times,” event organisers said. “Raffertys Coastal Run is heavily focused on creating a unique experience for participants and their families for the entire weekend, not just race day. “With not only an 11km, 22km and 35km course distance option, there’s also a 1km Kids Fun Run so the whole family can get outdoors, spend time together and live a healthy active life. “The event is hosted from local Raffertys Resort, Lake Macquarie, which enables us to provide a total package for participants with meal and accommodation services as well as a Kids Club option in case those eager parents want to run the race and still let the kids be entertained while they’re out on course.” Entries close on Wednesday, July 5th, 2017. For more details about the event visit the website at www.raffertyscoastalrun.com.au ■
Australian adults suffer from 2 to 4 colds a year with children contracting up to 10 colds a year. That’s an estimated 96 billion colds a year!!! So the chances of avoiding a nasty cold or flu can be slim if constantly exposed to germs from other people. Eating a healthy diet of vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables will go a long way to preventing illness but boosting your immune system with vitamins, minerals and herbal supplements gives you an even greater chance of giving those colds the flick! Vitamin C has long been the go-to to prevent colds and flu and support your immune system. The best forms of vitamin C are found in oranges, red and green capsicum, kale, brussel sprouts, broccoli, tomato, guava and kiwi fruit but if you’re not eating enough vitamin C rich foods the best way to support your immune system through winter is with a supplement. Also known as ascorbic acid, a good vitamin C supplement contains bioflavonoids which are phytochemical compounds found in natural plant food sources. Research indicates that bioflavonoids help to make the ascorbic acid more bioavailable in your body – which means that your body can absorb more vitamin C. Studies on vitamin C suggests a dietary supplement of 500 milligrammes to no more than 2000 milligrammes a day may help to strengthen your immune system One natural herbal supplement which can help strengthen your immune system is Astragalus. Astragalus is a herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) which has a long history as an immune system booster. Astragalus has amazing antimicrobial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory capabilities which have led to its popularity as the go-to herb to combat upper
respiratory illnesses. A regimen of Astragalus throughout the winter months may help to prevent contracting a cold or flu. In fact, Astragalus is so safe that it can be taken all year round to boost your immune system. Another herb traditionally used to treat colds is Echinacea. Echinacea is native to North America and has been used by the Native American Indians for over 400 years. Research has shown that Echinacea can increase our white blood cell numbers which are the cells that help fight infection. Interestingly, Echinacea was used medicinally until the introduction of antibiotics in the 1950s. Several research studies have shown that taking Echinacea reduces the chance of catching a common cold by 58% and can reduce the length of colds by 1.5 days. Olive leaf has been used for healing for thousands of years and was first used by the Ancient Egyptians. The leaf, not the actual fruit, of the olive tree, has been found to have antiinflammatory and antioxidant properties with research showing that one of its active compounds called Oleuropein has strong antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal actions. It is these properties that help to support our immune system by fighting against viruses which cause respiratory infections and flu. So stay healthy this winter – don’t wait until you or your family get sick! The friendly team at Mojo Health are here to help find the right supplements for you but always consult with your healthcare practitioner if you have any health concerns.
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may involve changing how we think about ourselves and what happens to us, how we react emotionally and how we act (our habits). At its core, psychological well-being rests on our capacity to manage our thoughts, feelings, behaviour and our interactions with others. In other words, the patterns that maintain depression are likely to touch on each of these aspects of our life experience.
Recovery Road Map
Health & Wellbeing
GETTING BACK ON TRACK
Recovering from Depression WORDS ANNE WARD – MINDINSIGHT This is the final article in a 3-part series on depression. Articles 1 and 2 explored the subject of what depression is and some of the contributing factors. This article looks at how to recover from depression and maintain wellbeing. Depression is a serious illness that not only affects the individual but can have a profound impact on others. That’s why it’s important to seek help. Being informed about treatment options can make the prospect of seeking help feel less daunting. Also, rather than looking at one’s depression as a sign of weakness, perhaps depression is the mind-body system sending a message that something needs to change, that the way one has been “doing life” needs an upgrade or modification. Seeking help could, therefore, be one of the smartest things a person might do.
Treatment – not a one size fits all approach
Psychotherapy involves a collaborative relationship in which the therapist acts as a guide to help achieve a number of important tasks in building a road map for recovery: Task #1: to reach an understanding of the factors that have led to and continue to maintain depression. This should provide a cohesive explanation to a person of what they are experiencing, with an understanding of the specific factors that can be changed. Task #2: to develop a treatment plan that empowers the person to start taking control – in measured steps that are practical and achievable. Task #3: to develop the skills needed to maintain the changes in thinking, emotions, ways of relating and behaviour. Task #4: to address any unresolved events from the past, enabling the memories of those events to be properly archived so that they do not interfere with the present.
Wellbeing Road Map
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Once depression has been stabilised, a person will normally have begun experiencing a significant internal shift in mood and thinking, feeling more confident and connected. The next important phase is to develop a lifestyle plan to consolidate the changes and to provide a roadmap for maintaining wellbeing, which may cover the following areas: 1. Understanding one’s strengths and how they can be enlisted as resources. Happy people become more satisfied not simply because they feel better, but because they develop resources for living well. 2. Developing a vision for a meaningful life, with goals that link intentions with actions. Being connected to something bigger than yourself can be a powerful reminder of the bigger picture of life. 3. Seeking enrichment in social connections, interests and work. 4. Ensuring that lifestyle patterns (nutrition, sleep, exercise, work, recreation) support physical and mental health.
While depression has common symptoms, the experience of depression is individual, in the context of what is happening in a person’s life. Perhaps there have been significant changes Depression is treatable. Although the and challenges; perhaps the cumulative experience of depression can feel like the end impact of prolonged “wear and tear” from of the road, seeking help can be a giant step stress; perhaps losing one’s way or realising towards recovery and wellbeing. that life is just not working as well as it could. These individual factors are often part of a Anne Ward is principal psychologist crisis in meaning that needs to be addressed – of Mindinsight, providing evidencewhere am I at and where am I going? based psychology services to adults, children and adolescents. Mindinsight Seeking help is not about getting fixed – is located in the T&G Building at it is more about re-alignment. It is often 45 Hunter Street Newcastle. Visit www.mindinsight.com.au or email about learning new perspectives, skills and info@mindinsight.com.au for more ways of responding to life’s curve balls. This information.
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TRAVEL //
By Andrew Minto Co-Director of itravel the Junction and itravel Warners Bay I have recently returned from India - what an amazing destination it is! I was pleasantly surprised at how clean the country was for the amount of people that live there. (India is tipped to overtake China this year having the worlds’ highest population!) The people of India are so vibrant and happy, despite how little most of them have. They are always so colourful, dressed in beautiful saris, offering many great photo opportunities! I know it’s cliché but the Taj Mahal is truly amazing. An absolute must see in your lifetime. The food in India was delicious and consist mainly of beautiful curries with chicken, fish and vegetables along with pappadums and of course rice. The main religion in India is Hinduism and many Hindus avoid eating meat so meals will rarely include red meat. I had many meals included in my tour so we ate at reputable restaurants and hotels so we had no ugly ‘Delhi Belly’ experiences! You definitely have to be careful what you eat and where from, which is the advantage of travelling with a reputable tour company. It can be extremely hot in India so it is important to travel at the right time of year to be able to fully enjoy this fascinating destination. I would highly recommend adding India to your ‘places to go’ it is truly amazing!
Photo credit: Stuart Rigby itravel India Group Tour October 2016.
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The Diversity and Colours of India WORDS MEGAN O'SULLIVAN Truly an incredible destination, India is a land of diversity and colour, a showcase of architectural icons from the stone ruins of kingdoms past. From the elegant marble Taj Mahal to the strikingly modern Lotus Temple, it is a country remarkable for its many contrasting landscapes: the rugged mountains in the north to the lush and tranquil backwaters of Kerala, from the cool blue and calm coasts to the stark white-hot deserts of the interior. This vibrant country tempts your senses as it pulses with passionate energy, light, sound and fragrance, characteristic of traditional festivals and rituals that have developed throughout its fascinating history. Be intrigued that, despite the intensity of the hustle and bustle that comes with its millions of inhabitants, India provides many opportunities to find peace and serenity: in the vast spaciousness of a majestic landscape or a moment’s stillness in a quiet corner of an intricately-decorated alcove. For a traveller visiting India for the first time, An Indian Experience is an ideal itinerary since it includes some of the best known culturally rich and historically significant highlights of the country.
The odyssey starts by exploring the capital city, Delhi, an active metropolis with a unique combination of the ancient and the contemporary. Take some time to experience the taste sensations of the local cuisine, and notice how the heat and the spices change throughout the journey. Leaving Delhi, proceed to the world-famous tribute of love, the Taj Mahal in Agra, then venture into the wild jungles of Ranthambore National Park to seek the Bengal tigers and other wild animals in their natural habitat. Travel on through the mystical state of Rajasthan, a land of valour and gallantry, snake charmers, exotic and impenetrable for the beautiful, yet crumbling, city of Jaipur. The trail then reaches the quaint blue city of Jodhpur and is followed by the Venice of the East, Udaipur, with its extraordinary, shimmering lake. The journey returns to Delhi for some last-minute shopping at some of the famous street markets, or even the modern stores, that Delhi is now famous for. With return airfares and taxes with Singapore Airlines from Sydney, this Indian Experience is the perfect introduction to this country of wonders. For further information on this and other unique Indian tours, please contact itravel The Junction on 4962 1116 or itravel Warners Bay on 4947 1116.
NSW NO.1 For Caravans & Camping New research released by Destination NSW last month has revealed that NSW continues to be the number-one caravan and camping destination in Australia. There were 4.1 million international and domestic caravan and camping visitors to NSW during 2016, accounting for a 34 percent market share. More
than 97 percent of caravan and camping visitors to the State were Australian residents. NSW received four million domestic caravan and camping visitors (up 11% on 2015) who spent a total of $3 billion in the State (up 20% on 2015). Around 60% of them stayed in commercial caravan and camping sites, with January being the most popular for caravan and camping. Regional NSW was the largest source market for NSW (40%), followed by Sydney (25%) and Queensland (17%).
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INNER CITY WINEMAKERS Cellar Door Ambience… City Convenience... Unique Wine Tasting Experience.
SOUPS
FOR WINTER WELLNESS
Broth-based soups are not only good for the soul but good for your immune system. Loaded with vegetables and fibre, these soups also play a big role in maintaining a healthy body. Highly nutritious, low calorie with no unhealthy saturated fats, broth-based soups with an assortment of grains and/or vegetables will keep up your strength while fighting off nasty colds and flu. If bones are included, a good bone broth is rich in minerals to support the immune system with collagen and glutamine helping to heal your gut lining and reduce gut inflammation. So what are the best winter soups to beat colds and flu? Chicken soup – has been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties and boosts immunity. It also contains cysteine, an amino acid which can thin the mucus in your lungs so you can expel it easier.
Tomato soup – packed full of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium and iron, this is a nutrient powerhouse. Make sure you look for a dairy-free recipe, which will help keep mucus down when ill. Hot and sour soup – chicken soup Chinese style will clear out your sinuses with a good dose of chilli and garlic. These spices will trigger a sudden release of watery fluids in your mouth, throat and lungs, which will help thin down the respiratory mucus, so it's easier to expel. Garlic and kale soup – immune-boosting combination with antibiotic effects from the garlic with a huge dose of vitamin C from kale. For best results from your immuneboosting soup make it fresh, as processed, canned soups will not work as well as a slow-cooked homemade version. Make sure to cook a double batch so you can store in the freezer so if the flu strikes you down you have a soup ready to go! Try Mojo Health’s Hearty Vegetable Soup which will keep you warm over winter! For this and other tasty treats visit www.mojohealth.com.au/recipe
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Pokolbin Estate | 298 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin Open 7 Days 9am-5pm | PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au
For all your Australian, sustainably caught, fresh local seafood needs, you can't go past Newcastle Fishermans Co-Op.
SWANSEA - 69 Lakeside Drive, Ph 4971 4762 • OPEN Tues - Fri 8.30am to 4pm + Sat 8.30am to 1pm
WICKHAM - 97 Hannell Street, Ph 4965 4229 • OPEN Mon - Fri 8.30am to 5pm, Sat 8.30am to 3pm, Sun 10am to 2pm • www.fishcoop.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31
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The Hunter’s Favourite Comprehensive Guide to CELLAR DOORS RESTAURANTS LOCAL PRODUCE • WINES TRAIL MAPS RESTAURANT REVIEWS WEDDINGS & FUNCTIONS
Wine & Dine goes way beyond merely eating and drinking, it’s the ultimate authority on the best of what’s new in wine, food, travel and entertaining in the Hunter Valley. Take a trip between the covers and you’ll find a stylish new layout, crisp, colourful images, artfully written articles, easy to follow wine and food trail maps and delicious dining reviews. Wine & Dine is written by locals to give you all the insider knowledge you need to make the most of your stay in Wine Country. Wine & Dine has a well-established, dedicated readership and is known as Hunter Valley Wine Countries Wine & Food “Bible.” Pick up your copy today, read the digital guide at www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or use the QR code to read it on your mobile device right now!
NEW SEASONAL FLAVOURS And All Your Old Favourites
Adamstown Pudding Kitchen (APK) are already gearing up for another big year with staff returning to the kitchens this month. Getting creative in the kitchen, the team are busy experimenting with flavours and are set to launch their new range of delectable jams, pickles and sauces. Linda Barnier, Sales and Marketing Manager of APK says the jams, pickles and chutneys are designed to be seasonal, with ingredients chosen at the markets for whatever is abundant at the time. “Some flavours that may be available include Strawberry jam with a hint of chilli, Green Tomato pickle or Melon and Lemon jam flavours, it really depends what we can get our hands on that is plentiful and fresh,” she said. “Of course we will continue to have our core range of dessert sauces that can be mixed and matched with our puddings: Butterscotch sauce, White Chocolate and Cardamom sauce, Dark Chocolate and Vanilla sauce and Apricot and Ginger sauces.” APK also offer group and bus tours at the premises. Patrons can expect to hear about the rich history of the pudding kitchen, take a kitchen tour and taste their delicious Winter dessert menu. Oh – and don’t forget to stop by and grab your Christmas in July pudding and sauce this month. For more information, email APK at info@adamstownpuddingkitchen.org.au or visit www.adamstownpuddingkitchen.org.au
Hunter Valley
Chocolate Company EST. 1999
Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 17 years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!
Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, Broke Road
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Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant Australia’s only Asian restaurant in a winery! Located at Roche Estate, in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Oishii has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Whether dining inside the minimalist Asian themed dining hall or on the outside undercover terrace overlooking the vines encircling the architecturally designed amphitheatre, Oishii has become a “must dining experience.” Oishii’s Asian chefs have composed an extensive menu of lightly prepared fragrant dishes showcasing regional produce. In true Asian style dishes are perfect for sharing and ideal for families and friends. The fast take away options are also delicious.
J A PA N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E
ADDRESS Roche Estate Complex, Corner of Broke and Mcdonald Rd’s, Pokolbin RESTAURANT 7 Days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7051 W www.oishii.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33
NOW TASTING ease New Rel 2017 Mozcato
MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 28th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fied and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. • All wines are made in our onsite winery • Winery tas�ngs available for larger groups – bookings essen�al! • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome • On most occasions you will be looked a�er by one of the Mistletoe Family
QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE With three genera�ons now ac�vely engaged in the day to day opera�on of Mistletoe, it is truly a unique family winery.
When visi�ng Mistletoe be sure to take �me to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door. Mistletoe is now just 35 minutes from Newcastle – take the Hunter Expressway M15 which becomes the A15 (New England Highway) at Branxton and then take the Hermitage Road exit.
Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320
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l oo Sch y a d i l o H ! N U F
60+ super-fun activities for kids (big and small) to enjoy! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 35
School Holiday Feature
There's no Time for Boredom this
School Holidays! It can be a difficult task coming up with creative ways to entertain the kids on a wet and windy winter weekend. So when you’ve got two whole school-free weeks stretching out in front of you and no plans to escape those winter woes in a warmer climate, the thought of how you’re going to keep the kids busy – without spending a fortune – can be daunting. Luckily, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie City Councils have once again put together a packed schedule of free or inexpensive school holiday activities that are sure to appeal to kids of all ages. 36 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
Unique Masks (Mayfield July 3, Hamilton July 7 and Adamstown July 13) will challenge kids aged 7-12 to create something special to take home, while the Lego Master Builders Challenge (Adamstown July 5, Mayfield July 10, Hamilton July 11, Stockton July 13 and New Lambton July 14) will give participants the chance to construct their own temporary masterpiece using everybody’s favourite building blocks! Dreams of running away to the circus will come true – for an hour or so at least – as children aged 7-13 try their hand at the skills you see under the big top. Presented by Newcastle’s own Circus Avalon, the Join the Circus sessions (Wallsend July 4 and 10) will introduce participants to juggling, balances, diabolo, flower sticks and hula hoops, with a fee of just $10 per person. Older children can also enjoying the fun of Clowning Around (New Lambton July 5, Wallsend July 12), with a free 1.5 hour workshop that will give participants aged 12-16 the chance to make their own set of juggling balls before attempting to master the skills required to keep them in the air for as long as possible. Teenagers with a flair for the dramatic will also be catered for these holidays, with the Special FX Makeup Workshop (Wallsend July 5) teaching the techniques needed to transform their face to look like a ghastly ghoul or zonked out zombie for just $10 per person, while the three-hour Get Shorty! sessions will focus on the craft of short filmmaking on your smartphone. Develop a storyline, rehearse your actors and shoot your film in one single take! This workshop runs over two afternoons, finishing with a movie showing for friends and family (Wallsend July 7 and 14). There will be plenty more fun to be had at the library over the holidays, including Family Movie Nights, the launch of Renee Price’s new picture book during Digby Fixit Live!, a chance to Code a Band or delve deep into a story with the Mother/Daughter Book Club. A series of NAIDOC Week (July 2-9) activities will also be held at various libraries in partnership with the University of Newcastle and the Wollotuka Institute, including stories, puppets and a Possum Skin Cloak at Possum ($5, ages 6-12); the chance to create a contemporary work inspired by traditional Aboriginal art at NAIDOC Week Art ($5, ages 8-13); and the opportunity to learn some new dance moves and have your face painted in ochre at Time to Move ($5, ages 6-12). Bookings for all activities are essential. Make sure you check out www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/Library/Whats-On to find out what’s on near you.
Newcastle Museum
A great place to visit at any time of the year, Newcastle Museum WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Features Writer steps up its family-friendly activities during the school holidays with a series of free science shows that explore the world around us. Designed to excite with explosions, make you curious about Newcastle Region Libraries the workings of all things great and small and take you into the Gone are the days when a visit to the library was just about fascinating world of chemicals, the popular shows fill up fast, borrowing a book. Modern libraries are vibrant, interactive spaces where visitors can get involved in all sorts of activities – with three sessions each day on July 4, 6, 11 and 13. Of course, there’s plenty more to see at the museum once without needing to worry about keeping the noise level to a the science show is over, with the Supernova Hands-on Science whisper. Centre combining fun and facts to teach you about everything Newcastle’s network of libraries have plenty of options for from levers and pulleys to how a tornado is formed. children from as young as three right through to those in their The Fire and Earth Gallery also provides an interesting – late teens these holidays, with most activities coming without and noisy – insight into Newcastle’s industrial past, with an a cost. amazing light and sound show that interprets the excitement, Music! Storytime, Dance! Storytime and Put on Your Crazy colour, drama and noise of the steel-making process at the Clothes! Storytime will encourage children aged 3-8 to feel the former BHP Newcastle Steelworks. beat and dress up in wild outfits while enjoying stories, songs, The museum is open every day of the school holidays from instruments and craft. The free 50-minute sessions will be held at various libraries throughout the Newcastle region during both 10am to 5pm, visit www.newcastlemuseum.com.au for more details. the first and second weeks of the holidays.
JULY SCHOOL HOLIDAYS
What’s on at
NEWCASTLE REGION LIBRARY
Art Worksop at NAG
We offer a range of programs and workshops for all ages, from dance and music to clowning and special FX makeup.
Newcastle Art Gallery
The gallery isn’t just a place to appreciate the artworks of others, with budding artists given a chance to indulge their creative sides these holidays at the Abstract Stamp Designs Art Workshop. Working with a range of art materials, including wooden blocks and cardboard, children will create interesting printing stamps, which they can then use to make their own vibrant and colourful masterpiece. Taking inspiration from The National Gallery of Australia’s travelling exhibition Abstraction: celebrating Australian abstract women artists, the workshop is a fun way for children aged 5-12 to learn about colour, design and non-traditional printmaking techniques. Workshops cost $10 per person and will be held several times each day on July 3-7. If you’re more into superheroes than stamps the gallery has also got you covered, with a Superhero Comic Art Workshop ($10 per person) inspired by The Phantom Show. Create a comic style artwork with traditional animation techniques by using paint pens or markers to illustrate a character onto layers of clear sheets and build an interchangeable work of art. Three sessions will be run each day on July 10-14, with the workshop designed for children aged 5-12. The Phantom Show will also be the inspiration behind the artworks created during the Torchlight Tour Superheroes Unite event at the gallery on Saturday, July 1. Dress up as your favourite superhero, grab your torch and head down to the gallery for a guided tour of the exhibitions by torchlight, before grabbing a hot chocolate and making your own superheroinspired artwork. Suitable for children aged five years and over, the tour costs $10 per child, with accompanying adults free. Bookings are essential. For more details visit www.nag.org.au
Lake Macquarie Libraries
There’s more to Lego than just playing with simple building blocks as participants will discover at the Introduction to Lego Mindstorm workshop (Cardiff July 3, Charlestown July 13). Using Lego’s most advanced and newest robotics technology – the powerful Mindstorms EV3 – children aged 8-14 can learn how to assemble the robots and program them to carry out special tasks. Those interested in all things computers may also enjoy the Ozobots: Coding for Children workshop at Speers Point Library on July 7. The free two-hour session introduces children aged
Join us at the Library for school holiday fun!
Many activities are free. Bookings essential for ALL programs via Eventbrite. For times, locations and bookings visit: www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/library/Whats-On
NAIDOC Celebrations
10-14 to the world of coding using the online Ozobots program and is perfect for beginners. Those more interesting in writing stories than coding programs will be able to hone their skills at the Young Writer’s Workshop (Charlestown July 4). Children aged 11-14 can learn valuable tips and enjoy practical writing exercises that fuel the imagination and build writing confidence during this free threehour session. Children curious about the world around them are sure to love the Curious Chemistry Science Show, ($8 library members, $10 non-members) presented by the Newcastle Museum at Speers Point Library on July 7. Aimed at children 10-14 years, the show will allow participants to learn, observe and discover chemical reactions and the incredible chemistry behind our bodies, brains and the universe. Of course, the younger members of the family are also being catered for these school holidays as the libraries celebrate NAIDOC Week. Painting with Aunty Maree (Toronto July 6) is perfect for children aged 5-12 years as they create an artwork and learn about Aboriginal symbols with Aunty Maree, while NAIDOC Storytime (Swansea July 6) will feature artist and illustrator Fern Martins, who will entertain children aged 3-7 with stories, songs and craft. (Continued next page) ►
Anime Movie Marathon
Free
Wallsend District Library – Thursday 6 July, 2-5pm Do you enjoy anime and manga? Then come along to our free anime and ice cream movie screening. Ages 12-18. Free, includes free drinks and ice cream. Bookings essential.
For enquiries please call 4974 5300. For more information visit: www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au
www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37
(Continued) The second week of the school holidays will also offer plenty of opportunities to get crafty, with Drive-in Movie: Babe (Swansea July 11) encouraging children 5-10 years to bring a box to build their own car before sitting back for a “drive-in” movie screening of the much-moved classic Babe. The session costs $2, which includes items to decorate your own box car, as well as a movie snack pack containing chips and a drink. Children aged 5-10 years can also get creative by building their own robot from recycled materials at Craftybots (Cardiff July 13). Bookings are required for all sessions. For more details, visit www.library.lakemac.com.au/kids/school-holiday-fun
Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery
While the ever-changing exhibition schedule means there’s always a reason to visit Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery, there will also be plenty of one-off workshops on offer these school holidays. Print Portraits will explore the art of portraiture using printmaking techniques (July 4), while Pet Profiles (July 5) will encourage children to paint a picture of their pet or favourite animal on a canvas. The artworks will take on a whole new dimension during 3D Portraits (July 11), with children learning assemblage techniques, while a variety of materials and techniques will be used at the Mixed Media Animalia workshop (July 12), where animals will once again be the portraiture subject. All of the above workshops cost $20 per person and are designed for children aged seven years and over. Bookings are essential. Visit www.artgallery.lakemac.com.au or contact 4921 0382 or for more details.
He’s Strong, Humorous & Immortal... He’s The Phantom! In March 1977, the Newcastle Regional Art Gallery officially opened to the public as one of the first purpose-built contemporary Regional Art Galleries in Australia. On the 1st of September of that same year, the exhibition Ghost Who Walks Never Can Die was held, a celebration of pop art inspired by the long-running Phantom comics. This month, 40 years later - the Ghost who walks returns to Newcastle as The Phantom Show to help celebrate the anniversary of the building - the first purpose built contemporary regional Art Gallery in Australia. Curated by local artist Dietmar Lederwasch and Sydney-based artist Peter Kingston, the exhibition is on now at Newcastle Art Gallery and will run through the July School Holidays – closing on the 20th of August. The 1977 exhibition introduced up and coming artists of the Australian art world to Newcastle. The exhibition included; timber cut-outs by Peter Kingston, paintings by Richard Larter, collages by Richard Liney, emulsions on board from movie producer Phillipe Mora, serigraphs by Garry Shead and lithographs by one of Australia's greatest psychedelic artists, 38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
West Wallsend Swim Centre
West Wallsend Swim Centre
Winter might not seem like the ideal time to go for a swim, but the school holidays offer the perfect opportunity for children to ramp up their water skills during the Intensive Learn to Swim Program. Held over five days from July 3-7 within the temperaturecontrolled surrounds of the West Wallsend Swim Centre’s 25m heated indoor pool, the program will help boost your child’s confidence in the water. With beginner to transition levels available, the program is suitable for swimmers of many different abilities and is sure to give their skills a valuable kick along before the warmer weather returns later in the year. The program costs $55 and is open to children aged three years and over. Bookings are required by calling 4921 0738. ■
Mixed Media Animalia at Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery
with drawings and notes in the margins from original artist Lee Martin Sharp. These emerging creatives all moved on to Faulk. become some of the country's most prominent contemporary "It's quite exhilarating to bring this exhibition to Newcastle artists. The new The Phantom Show plays host to the largest array - my hometown," said co-curator Dietmar Lederwasch. "The development of this show has certainly been a labour of love for of artists ever gathered to celebrate the art of the Phantom. both Peter and I, because of our long history with the Phantom Over fifty artists' works are exhibited, from the first Phantom character, but bringing it here is particularly special to me." comics in Australia and the United States, through to Euan "I'm thrilled to be working with so many Novocastrian Macleod's depiction Father of the first Phantom (2014). artists and adding their new works into this already amazing Many local Novocastrians have produced new works of art for the Newcastle exhibition including Michael Bell, Dallas Bray, exhibition," said Lederwasch. "Anyone who has enjoyed the Phantom and his many Chris Capper, Dino Consalvo, James Drinkwater, Ron Hartree, incarnations over the years will have a great time at this Aleta Lederwasch, Dietmar Lederwasch, Claire Martin, John Morris, Lezlie Tilley, Peter Tilley, John Turier and Graham Wilson. exhibition." Each artist has their own unique reason for becoming involved with the exhibition. As a character, the Phantom was created in 1936 as a daily newspaper comic strip. To this day, the Phantom still runs in over five hundred newspapers internationally. The comics tell the story of a costumed crime fighter who lives in the ancient Skull Cave in the fictional African country of Bangalla. Due to the comic's long-running history, the exhibition has a multigenerational appeal. Everyone 'owns' the Phantom in their own way and through different interpretations of him can recognise his humanity as a point of difference to the more traditional concepts of a super-hero and in doing so capture a shared love of the comic. Unlike many comic strip heroes, the Phantom relies on "Father of The Phantom" by Macleod. his strength, intelligence, humour and reputed immortality to defeat his enemies. Perhaps for this reason, more than any This free exhibition is open at Newcastle Art Gallery 10am other superhero, the Phantom continues to be a source of to 5pm, Tues to Sun and 7 days a week during School creative and artistic inspiration for many Australian artists more Holidays. Get the kids involved with the special Phantom than 80 years after he was first imagined. Children's Art Trail which encourages them to become the The Newcastle show also includes a range of Phantom hero of their own comic strip while viewing the exhibition. memorabilia and ephemera - including a hand typed script
Sand Dune
Sa a is INSPIRING KIDS
at Maths Inspiration
Mathematics is a key learning subject for students, preparing them to tackle everyday problems with a logical and calculated mindset, and leading the way to understanding greater complexities for future careers, particularly those in STEM fields which are the future of innovation. While the benefits of maths can be hard to convince to kids in the classroom, enjoyment of mathematics can be encouraged in students by communicating in ways which peak their interest. Coming all the way from the UK this month is Maths Inspiration, interactive maths lectures helping students Years 9-11 to understand real-world mathematics through entertainment. Maths Inspiration is a national programme of interactive maths lecture shows for teenagers. All shows have three interactive talks, an interval and a lively Q&A session at the end. For teachers, this is an ideal STEM outing for your school that can also open your students' eyes to careers they may not have considered before. “Understanding mathematical concepts through an entertaining experience is a fantastic way to encourage future student engagement with maths,” says Darius Samojlowicz, Executive Officer of the Mathematical Association of NSW. Mathematics-experts-come-liveentertainers, Jen Rogers, Matt Parker and Rob Eastaway, will demonstrate the possibilities for humour and excitement within mathematics to inspire teens, regardless of their current interest in maths.
ABOUT THE PRESENTERS
Rob Eastaway has been Director of Maths Inspiration since it’s inception. He is an author whose books on everyday maths include the bestselling Why Do Buses Come In Threes? and The Hidden Maths of Sport. He appears regularly on BBC Radio 4 and 5 Live to talk about the maths of everyday life and has given maths talks across the world to audiences of all ages. Matt Parker is known as the "standup mathematician" and is the only person to hold the prestigious title of London Mathematical Society Popular Lecturer, while simultaneously having a sold-out comedy show at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Matt is always keen to mix his two passions of mathematics and stand-up as well as presenting TV and radio shows. In 2014 his first book, Things to Make and Do in the Fourth Dimension, was published in the UK and USA. Jennifer Rogers studied Mathematics with Statistics at Lancaster University before going to the University of Warwick to do her PhD. She is now a research fellow in the Department of Statistics at the University of Oxford. She has appeared as an expert statistician in the TV programmes Long Live Britain and Mystery Map - in which she calculated the chance of dying from spontaneous human combustion! Maths Inspiration began in 2004. Since then over 150,000 teenagers have attended shows, making the programme one of the largest and most successful maths enrichment programmes in the UK. Maths Inspiration is coming to Newcastle Civic Theatre on Monday 24th July 2017. For bookings and information www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
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!
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 you’ll find a place where you can relax, get back to nature, treat the kids or just stop and smell the roses! Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders. Enjoy a picnic (we have
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 (extended hours over Summer), weekdays by appointment. Open every day during school holidays. Departure location - Lower car park, end of James Paterson St, Anna Bay. Look for the big army bus! Phone 0425 213 096. www.sanddunesafaris.com.au
over 300 acres of great spots), utilise our BBQ facilities, enjoy a tractor hay ride to feed the animals, check out the kangaroos, hiking and mountain bike trails or sunset rides. We offer great guest house and semi self contained villa accommodation, where kids stay free during school holidays! (Villas only). Be quick to book, we have limited spots available. Feel your school holiday stresses slip away! Book the kids in for some outdoor fun. DETAILS Open 7 days, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale. Bookings are recommended, phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008. www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39
School Holiday Feature
MR STINK
STANK
Loads of Fun for Kids (and Their Adults!) David Walliams’ award-winning book Mr Stink comes to life on stage for children 6-12 and their adults this month when this charming original Australian adaptation plays at the Civic Theatre Newcastle for four performances from July 25th and 26th, 2017. These shows are part of a national tour following its 2016 Sydney Opera House premiere. "Mr Stink stank. He also stunk. And if it was correct English to say he stinked, then he stinked as well…” It all starts when Chloe, just about the loneliest girl in the world, makes friends with Mr Stink, the local tramp. Sure he smells a bit, but he’s the only person who’s ever been nice to her. So, when Mr Stink needs a place to stay, Chloe decides to hide him in the garden shed. Now Chloe's got to make sure no one finds out her secret, but she’s about to learn
that some secrets have a way of leading to disaster. And speaking of secrets, there just might be more to Mr Stink than meets the eye… or the nose… The team behind The 13- 26- and 52-Storey Treehouses live on stage return with this touching, twisted, hilarious, and very smelly tale… hold on to your nose! This heart-warming and comical adaptation will enthral and amuse audiences of all ages. For more information about the production visit www.cdp.com.au For tickets, call Ticketek on 4929 1977 or visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au
Entertainment Passes AGES 5 - ADULT Looking for indoor fun? Enjoy the school holidays with the great value Entertainment Passes, only available at Charlestown Square. Enjoy a movie at Reading Cinemas, a game of bowling or laser tag at Strike, play time at Timezone plus food treats at selected favourites. Packaged together for amazing value, Kids Entertainment Passes are just $38 and Super Passes are $37 each – on sale at the Customer Service Desk and valid until December, so plenty of time to enjoy. Visit www.charlestownsquare.com.au for more information. 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
Hunter Valley
Ga dens ALL AGES Get ready for a Winter Wonderland that is jammed-packed full of fun at Hunter Valley Gardens Snow Time in the Garden. HVG has pulled out all the stops this year, adding more rides and entertainment than ever before to this incredible winter event. The one of a kind destination will transform into a glittering winter fair throughout the school holidays until Sunday, July 16th, with new activities and something for everyone to enjoy at any age! The cooler activities include the ice skating rink, the 40m ice toboggan, or you can play
in the snow in one of the equally large Snow Time Play Zones, which have plenty of room for snowmen and snow angels. The brand new Carnival style Fair Rides are a feature this year, with a 25m ferris wheel, 12m long swing chairs and a traditional carousel for all kids to enjoy! Inflatables will also keep the kids busy, enjoying unlimited bouncing, frolicking and racing on giant jumping castles and obstacle courses. DETAILS Hunter Valley Gardens Snow Time in the Garden is located on Broke Road, Pokolbin. Open 10am - 7pm weekdays, and 10am - 9pm weekends. For more details about the event, tickets and the full program, visit www.hvg.com.au
School Holidays FUN FOR KIDS OF ALL AGES
*Bookings & details at:
charlestownsquare.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41
School Holiday Feature
Author Deboorah Kelly celebrates the launch of her first book with young fans. Photo Credit: Sarah Foote
The Chalk Rainbow Teaching Kids About Empathy and Diversity WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Features Writer
“
The Chalk Rainbow explores difference and diversity through a family living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), though the word autism is never actually mentioned. It’s really a story of unconditional love, of trust and of learning to look at the world through the eyes of others.
spine 9mm
Zane is different to other kids. He lines things up, and he’s frightened of things that don’t seem to bother other people — like the colour black. Things are looking pretty bleak for him and his family, until his sister starts to draw a chalk rainbow on the front steps … A heart-warming story of love, trust and learning to look at the world through the eyes of others.
Guidelines - Correct Logo Use
‘EK’ Logo - Revised May 2013.
DO NOT DISTRIBUTE WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM EXISLE PUBLISHING LIMITED
Background EK is short for Exisle Kids - Exisle Publishing’s Imprint for childrens/teen books. The shoe represents all that we love about children: Energy, playfulness & adventure. We want our EK Imprint to share these values, so we encourage designers to use our logo with the same energy, playfulness & adventure. This will be achieved by the use of colours that enhances the EK logo whilst complimenting it’s surroundings. Enjoy!
A
EK PRIMARY USE Logo - Full colour (To be used wherever possible)
B
EK TINY USE Logo - Full colour (To be used only when neccessary)
Use Logo ‘A’ in all applications ensuring printed size is NOT LESS than 8mm WIDE
8mm
8mm
Minimum size for EK Logo = 8mm wide.
If Logo ‘A’ needs to be LESS than 8mm WIDE
www.ekbooks.org
The difference between the ‘A’ Primary Use and ’B‘ Tiny Use Logos is the detail on the shoe is removed - because such detail begins to ‘fill’ when reporduced at such tiny sizes. Use Logo ‘B’ in all applications less than 8mm wide ensuring printed size is NOT LESS than 4mm WIDE
Deborah Kelly and Gwynneth Jones
42 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
“My first picture book The Bouncing Ball was published in 2013 by Random House. But it was a story I wrote called ‘Real Jam’ (about my Nana, who was a Hungarian refugee) that was the first to be picked for publication,” she said. “I took ‘Real Jam’ to a writers’ festival and was luckily given the opportunity to pitch the story (in two minutes) to a panel of publishers. “Fortunately a lovely publisher from Random House took a shine to it, and Jam for Nana was published in 2014. At a later meeting, I showed Random House another manuscript I had about the journey of a lost ball, which was also accepted, but that ended up coming out first!” Fast forward a few years, and while Deborah has a variety of published works under her belt, that still doesn’t guarantee every idea will be an easy sell to publishers. The manuscript for Deborah’s latest book, The Chalk Rainbow, was passed over several times before being picked up by EK Books – an end result that Deborah was determined to achieve in order to promote its theme of inclusivity.
The Chalk Rainbow
Deborah Kelly was just seven when she penned her first series of picture books. While those early efforts may not have found an audience beyond her family farm in New Zealand, Deborah’s writing career has certainly come a long way since then, as she prepares to celebrate the publication of her latest book. Now based in Lake Macquarie, the successful children’s author has written everything from educational resources to haiku poetry, as well as the popular ‘Ruby Wishfingers’ series of chapter books for younger readers. This month Deborah will also publish her fifth picture book, The Chalk Rainbow, with an official launch to be held at Wallsend District Library on Saturday, July 1 from 10.30am. But it was far from a natural progression from her childhood scribblings in New Zealand to her successful career as a children’s author across the Tasman, with Deborah dabbling in everything from marine biology to meat pies along the way! “I studied Marine Biology and Environmental Management at James Cook University up in Queensland many moons ago,” she said. “Since then I have done all kinds of jobs, from working as an English teacher in Japan to being a travel agent in Scotland to selling meat pies over the phone - which I didn’t do very well at all, being a vegetarian! “I have always written poetry and kept journals, but it wasn’t until after my second child was born that I decided to try my hand at writing for kids.” The path to publication can be long and challenging, with Deborah lucky enough to get her first break after impressing a publisher during a two-minute pitch session at a writers’ festival. When asked what advice she would give those keen to follow in her footsteps, Deborah told intouch Magazine it was important for aspiring authors to read widely, write as much as they can and attend as many writing courses and festival events as possible.
“The book was inspired by time spent with children on the autism spectrum and their families, observing their challenges but also their triumphs. “Having a child with ASD can be hard for parents and siblings as well as the child themselves. Often parents feel helpless. “Siblings of kids with ASD tend to be compassionate, understanding and very accepting of difference. I have seen them come up with very creative ways to solve problems. This is what happens in The Chalk Rainbow. “From idea to publication, The Chalk Rainbow took about four years. The manuscript underwent many changes and received some wonderful feedback from publishers. “Unfortunately many mainstream publishers turned it down because they felt it appealed to too narrow an audience. Luckily, EK books could see that its themes were universal. “My hope is that The Chalk Rainbow will make its way into homes, libraries and schools to encourage discussion about difference and diversity, including ASD. “I hope that it will provide some insight into the world of a child with ASD, and encourage kids to step into another’s shoes to see the world from their point of view. “I want children to see that with patience, kindness and understanding - and sometimes thinking a bit outside of the square - we can help each other to overcome challenges.” Of course, a picture book is as much about the illustrations as it is about the story, and Deborah said she was more than pleased with how Newcastle-based illustrator Gwynneth Jones brought her words visually to life. “I think most authors have pictures in their head while they are writing - I certainly do! But seeing your work brought to life through someone else’s interpretation is, for me, one of the best parts about being an author,” Deborah said. “An illustrator can take the book in quite a different direction with wonderful results. “I’ve always admired Gwynne’s work, but this is our first collaboration. I love her beautiful, sensitive illustrations for The Chalk Rainbow.” Gwynneth has been illustrating picture books since 2014 when she was approached by EK Books to work on the visuals for Don’t Think About Purple Elephants, written by fellow Lake Macquarie children’s author Susan Whelan. It was a new direction for the University of Newcastle-trained illustrator, but one she said she enjoyed immensely. “I always love a project, I love collaborations,” she said. “I’ve always liked the stories I’ve illustrated, and I find if I like the story, instantly (ideas for the illustrations) are popping straight away.” It can take Gwynneth several months to complete a picture book, with the illustrator initially developing what each character will look like before working on the individual pages. While she favours predominantly black and white illustrations with a dash of colour when completing her own work, Gwynneth said she enjoyed using oil pastels for the first time to create the gorgeously vibrant and brightly coloured drawings for The Chalk Rainbow. This is the fifth picture book she has illustrated and Gwynneth said she still gets a thrill when she first sees the full book proof come through from the publishers before it goes to print. However, her biggest thrill comes when she hal Rainbo sees the faces of the eC w h T children as they pick up the book for the first time – which they will see plenty of when the book is officially launched at Wallsend Library this month. Guidelines - Correct Logo Use
‘EK’ Logo - Revised May 2013.
DO NOT DISTRIBUTE WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION FROM EXISLE PUBLISHING LIMITED
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ISBN 978-1-925335-45-3
EK is short for Exisle Kids - Exisle Publishing’s Imprint for childrens/teen books. The shoe represents all that we love about children: Energy, playfulness & adventure. We want our EK Imprint to share these values, so we encourage designers to use our logo with the same energy, playfulness & adventure. This will be achieved by the use of colours that enhances the EK logo whilst complimenting it’s surroundings. Enjoy!
51799
A
EK PRIMARY USE Logo - Full colour (To be used wherever possible)
Use Logo ‘A’ in all applications ensuring printed size is NOT LESS than 8mm WIDE
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The difference between the ‘A’ Primary Use and ’B‘ Tiny Use Logos is the detail on the shoe is removed - because such detail begins to ‘fill’ when reporduced at such tiny sizes.
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Deborah Kelly and Gwynneth Jones
MOTORING //
All New Discovery
kilometres go by virtually unnoticed. Dynamic Stability Control and Electronic Power Assisted Steering ensure on-road capabilities and ride quality are enhanced. The highly desirable interior is a reimagining of the classic Discovery design elements with the striking use of strong horizontal and vertical lines connecting through the main facia beam. The use of materials such as premium leather, authentic wood and metal finishes, coupled WORDS CHRIS HYDE with focussed craftsmanship and precision Hunter Jaguar Land Rover create an air of cultured modern living. With seven full seats across three rows, Form, function and exemplary levels of flexible seating and optional heating, cooling finesse are brought together to help create and massage functionality – however you one of Land Rover’s most compelling configure the clever use of space in All-New vehicles to date, the All-New Discovery. The Discovery, you’ll always have room to relax. vehicle’s exterior design is a revolutionary If you’re in the market for your next re-imagining of Discovery for the next vehicle, consider the All-New Discovery or generation and introduces a new level of refinement as demonstrated by its beautifully any other models in the extensive Land Rover range, contact Grant at Hunter Land Rover, crafted and sculpted surfaces. Arnhem Close Bennetts Green, by phone on All-New Discovery has been designed 4974 4222 or online at to deliver a confident, comfortable and www.hunterlandrover.com.au engaging driving experience so that the
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BE ONE OF THE FIRST TO DISCOVER THE ALL-NEW DISCOVERY All-New Discovery is a quantum leap forward in SUV Design. A radical and sharply focused approach to embodying Land Rover’s vision of the most versatile and capable SUV. So wherever you want to go, whatever you need to take, All-New Discovery is every vehicle you´ll ever need. We are delighted to invite you to view this revolutionary SUV in our showroom, to take a closer look and to meet our experts who will be happy to answer all your questions. Contact Hunter Land Rover to preview the vehicle. 6-8 Arnhem Close, Bennetts Green. Tel: 02 4974 4222 hunterlandrover.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43
STAR OF THE MONTH Cancer
22 June - 22 July This year encourages you to follow your heart. Right from the start of your birthday season, you may feel restless, but don’t try to force things to happen. It’s often easier to go with the flow. Should obstacles appear, view them as opportunities. Life is a dance, so choose the rhythm that offers you the greatest joy, and take comfort in the fact that all paths lead to the same place - your greatest good.
Astrologer TANYA OBREZA on what’s in the stars this month... Leo
Virgo
Libra
Scorpio
Sometimes, we reach a time that, in hindsight, is a turning point. Whether you realise its importance depends on your intuition. Whatever the case, there’s no avoiding a renewed outlook on life. More importantly, you undergo a change in your spiritual attitude - old ideals may be traded for newer beliefs, or your present commitment strengthens.
As much as you’d like to retain a sense of stability, in July the cosmos seems determined to cause unpredictability. This is your month to discover that change can bring blessings. If offered an opportunity, don’t hesitate - this advantage won’t arise again for some time. You’re also better equipped to deal with financial issues - so sort out money problems now.
There are times when the least amount of effort can bring the biggest rewards. You have an innate charm and confidence, but throughout July your immaculate sense of timing also helps to steer good things your way. Well planned words and actions also ensure you deliver the goods. It’s a winning formula - so why not mix business with pleasure.
In July long-term plans attract interest. The cosmos offers financial opportunities, but asks for patience. Delayed gratification isn’t usually your style but persistence will pay high dividends. In matters of the heart, singles attract someone special. For couples, there could pressure to fall in line with a partner. If so, maintain independence and equality.
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
If you’re going to be busy, you may as well hope for a trouble-free month. Of course, it doesn’t always work out that way, but with fiery planets onside - they’ll motivate you through testing tasks. Whether in business or pleasure, through July - it’s all systems go. Just don’t place too much faith in flimsy promises - not everyone is as trustworthy as you.
No-one has a completely drama free existence - we all make mistakes. Consider, though, that these so-called errors of judgement are simply learning tools towards wisdom and compassion. Forgive others, and yourself. This month, there’s so much more to experience, and love. With finances also on side, the occasional luxury is a must.
Aquarians are famous for their fiercely stubborn streak. And as compromise doesn’t seem your top priority at the moment, expect some heated discussions. You’ve had a taste of freedom and want more. Though the planets counsel a degree of care, you want to throw caution to the wind. Just as well your cash supply looks plentiful - even if it is borrowed.
Routine becomes a way of life for many. If life has become too predictable - this month, try something new. Start, perhaps, by making one small change every day. Initially, the choice may not feel comfortable, but it’s important to realise how long old patterns have been stuck in place. Be bold, Pisces. The gain? Bolstered confidence. Surprises, too.
23 July - 23 August
23 November - 21 December
24 August - 22 September
22 December - 20 January
23 September - 23 October
21 January - 18 February
Aries
Taurus
Gemini
This is your month to network, update your appearance, or, if attached, make things more serious. Singles, too, should strike while the iron is hot. July finds you feeling feisty, yet settled. Mutual trust extends to friendships, too. Money, however, may concern you - especially if someone in your life doesn’t understand the concept of savings.
Many Taureans can expect a little extra cash and more variety in their lives. Changes at home keep you on your toes. Though you’re usually a workaholic, July could find you ducking out of the escape hatch. Home’s far more alluring this month, and you’re in the mood to redecorate. There’s nothing like an expensive distraction.
July’s a grinder of a month when it comes to getting the work done. It’s just a case of powering into top gear and crashing through any self-doubts. Both your work and social diaries are loaded to the hilt. Blame it on an immodest Mars, hurling you into the spotlight. There you’ll be - the centre of attention, and loving it.
21 March - 20 April
44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
21 April - May 20
May 21 - 21 June
24 October - 22 November
19 February - 20 March
TANYA OBREZA was born in Slovenija and emigrated to Australia with her parents as a young girl. It was during her first visit to England that Tanya was introduced to astrology, and in 1980 she gained her London Faculty of Astrological Studies qualifications. In 1988 Tanya left behind her career as a Production Manager in the film and television industry to pursue what had become her main passion - the study and research of astrology. Over the years, Tanya has established an extensive and wide-ranging international following, mostly due to her reassuring, down to earth presence.
A Passion for Life & People...
SHIVANI GUPTA WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Features Writer There’s no doubt passion plays a starring role in Shivani Gupta’s life. The founder of the Passionate People Institute has spent the past 15 years mentoring individuals, groups and business leaders, helping them to find their passions and reach their goals. For the past six years she has also been a certified “Passion Test” facilitator, having become one of only seven people worldwide to complete global master training with the co-creator of the transformational program - New York Times bestselling author Janet Bray Attwood. Shivani uses the test to help people identify their top five passions and learn how to align their lives and their careers with their priorities. But her own journey to living a passionate life wasn’t exactly straight forward. Born in India, Shivani moved to Australia with her family when she was 11 years of age. After studying engineering at university, she broke new ground by becoming the first female in her family to get a job. Several career changes and much success in a number of management roles followed, however, Shivani still felt something was missing. It wasn’t until she travelled nearly 10,000 kilometres from home to the mountains of Nepal that she finally realised what was wrong. “I’m an engineer by trade, I followed my dad’s footsteps; he is an engineer, my grandfather was an engineer,” Shivani said. “I’m the first woman that has ever worked in my family, so my mum, my grandmas, a number of my cousins that still live in India, they’re highly qualified but don’t work. “To be honest, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do so I followed Dad’s footsteps. I worked as an engineer for a few years, and it was ok, I was a very good engineer, I just didn’t enjoy it. “Then I moved into sales and marketing, did lots of senior leadership roles with companies like General Motors and BHP Billiton, I got to travel a lot, got to earn a lot of money but just felt really dissatisfied. “(In 2011) I trekked through Nepal... I just felt really lost, I just felt like ‘I work pretty hard, I earn great money, I’ve got this great job, and I really hate my life’. “What I didn’t know at that time was that I just wasn’t very passionate about who I was, what I was doing. I was in a long term relationship that I really didn’t enjoy; I was just stuck. “For me, I always say I had a bit of a transformation moment (in Nepal). There was supposed to be about 12 people on the trek and I was the only one left standing, everybody else cancelled the trip. “So I had my own Sherpa, my own cook... and because I didn’t have any conversations with them except when we sat for meals because we would be walking along ridgelines for hours
on end, it was the first time in my life I had time to think. No mobile phones - I just had time to reflect on life, really connect with my soul. And I went ‘my life’s not good, I think I need to quit a few things’. “So I came back from that trip, a month away, and I quit my job much to the despair of my parents and the demise of my bank balance, and I quit my relationship. “It seemed like it was a really stupid thing to do, but I just felt it was time to do something different – I didn’t really know exactly what I was going to do but I wanted to do something that was meaningful. “I just started working with individuals, and then people started asking me to come and speak and run workshops… the business just started, it was really organic.” With all this focus on passion right from the beginning, it seems only natural that Shivani felt a natural affinity with the philosophy behind The Passion Test and was keen to implement the process not only in her own life but in the lives and careers of her clients as well. “I became certified in the Passion Test six years ago and I’ve been using the tool for quite a while and it’s just such a fabulous, simple tool in terms of getting your passions clear before you set your goals,” she said. “For organisational leaders, when you understand your passion and the passions of others you can harness that to deliver improved performance and productivity. “According to Gallup research in 2016, 87 percent of employees worldwide are not engaged at work, and when you look at it that’s sad, I feel really sad. “I feel part of my mission is to turn that upside down; I want 87 percent of people to be passionate about their work. “The Passion Test talks about setting the intention of what you want, you then give it some attention… and then once you’ve done that you just let it go, so there’s no tension. That’s the three-step process, and I try to apply that to most aspects of my life.” Shivani’s enthusiasm for the simplicity and effectiveness of the Passion Test has seen her become one of 14 people from around the world – and the only person in Australia – to contribute to Janet Bray Attwood’s latest transformational book: Inspired By the Passion Test. Designed to inspire and help others lead the passionate life they dream about, the book is an emotional anthology of personal stories - a testament to the power of Janet’s simple test and step-by-step program.
Janet said the authors of each chapter had used the Passion Test to help in their physical health, relationships, career, and family - finding true love, overcoming domestic abuse, and living with the loss of a loved one. “These inspirational people will help you learn how to get unstuck, find clarity, and make passionbased choices in your life,” she said. “Inspired by The Passion Test will uplift your spirit and give you the tools, advice, and inspiration you need to find your passion.” Shivani shares her own personal experiences of the power of the Passion Test in her chapter of the book and hopes that by reading it, more people will be inspired to find their own passions. “When you get really clear about who you are and what you do and you spend a bit of time realising that vision, then things happen in your life,” she said. “In the chapter I just tried to share how I use the Passion Test, and for me, it’s brought a lot of clarity to my life, both in my work life as well as my personal life. In the last six years since I did the process, which I repeat one to two times a year, I’ve achieved over 95 percent of things year-on-year. Before it would be hit and miss, and I think that the process really helped me. “Millions of people around the world set goals all the time, but my belief is that when goals are not set in alignment with your passions, they are very hit and miss. “My experience is you need to get your passions clear, know what your top passions are, then set your goals and when you start to do that the alignment is there, the direction is there, and the achievement of those goals is so much faster, and you feel really good about it.”
Proceeds from the sale of Inspired By the Passion Test, which has already hit #1 on the Amazon bestseller list, will be donated to the I AM Foundation. To find out more about the book visit www.inspiredbythepassiontest.com www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 45
FIVE SECRETS
to Growing Sales
Greater Bank
Announces its Volunteer of the Year Greater Bank has recognised the outstanding contribution its employees make to the community by announcing the winner of the 2017 Greater Charitable Foundation Employee Volunteer of the Year Award. Leanne Rix, an IT Test Analyst with Greater Bank, was named the recipient of the award for the work she undertakes with Greater Charitable Foundation partner, Camp Quality. She received the award at a presentation held at Greater Bank’s Hamilton headquarters and was truly humbled to be recognised by her employer for her volunteer work. “I was so surprised to receive the award. I get so much enjoyment out of the kids having so much fun and feel so lucky to be involved in such a wonderful charity,” Ms Rix said. Ms Rix started volunteering with Camp Quality three years ago through Greater Bank’s corporate volunteering program, and after spending just a few hours with the children and their families at one of the camps, she was hooked. 46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au
Leanne Rix, an IT Test Analyst with Greater Bank, was suitably humbled to be awarded winner of the 2017 Greater Charitable Foundation Employee Volunteer of the Year Award for the work she undertakes with Camp Quality.
“I was supposed to be there for a few hours, I ended up staying the whole day, and now three years later I am still getting so much out of it,” Ms Rix explained. “I just loved the experience of not only seeing the smiles on the faces of the sick children but also the reaction of the parents watching their kids forgetting about their illness, if only for a short time.” Greater Charitable Foundation Executive Officer, Anne Long, said there were many strong and inspiring nominations for this year’s award, but Leanne’s story certainly stood out. “Leanne was nominated by three employees who each provided glowing endorsements, not only of her work with Camp Quality but also her as a person,” Ms Long said. “Leanne is kind and compassionate, and always puts others first. The time she gives, the talent she passes on, and the joy she brings to others is truly inspiring.” More than 200 Greater Bank employees have volunteered with a Greater Charitable Foundation partner in the last 12 months alone. “Volunteering is a key platform of the Greater Charitable Foundation, and we are lucky to have a network of Greater Bank employees who are passionate and engaged with our community.” Ms Long said. According to Volunteering Australia, there are 5.8 million Australians or 31 percent of the population who engage in volunteering activities and programs, making an estimated annual economic and social contribution of $290 billion.
One of the most common challenges small businesses face is the need for more customers and more profit. Without sales, you have no customers, and with no customers, you make no profit. If sales are something you struggle with in your business, you need to invest some time in understanding the sales cycle and fine-tuning your sales pitch. Think about the marketing campaigns you are running now. You could be throwing away hundreds if not thousands of dollars per month out of your business if you’re not measuring what impact your campaign is having on sales. One of the simplest things you can do to put money back on your bottom line is to stop doing stuff that doesn’t work, figure out what does and replicate it. Marketing budgets for small companies are already too tight, so you need to make every cent count. 1. KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS. To get more customers, it’s vital to know where your current customers are coming from. Most business owners aren’t measuring the effectiveness of their current marketing (if they do any) and have no idea how their customers end up at their door. One of the most powerful tools to improve your marketing and your sales is to ask your customers how they came across your business. Why did they choose you? This gives you the first piece of the marketing puzzle to be able to create a strategy that’ll get customers coming through your door. 2. LISTEN. Too often, we ask a question and then answer our own question before anyone else has a chance to say anything. We need to give our customers a chance to talk. The more they talk and the more you listen, the more valuable information they’ll share. Those insights are the key to really getting to know your customers and being able to exceed their expectations. 3. STAY IN CONTROL. If you’re meeting with a potential new customer, you want to stay in control of the sales conversation. You easily lose control when you’re no longer the one asking the questions. The key way to avoid this is to prepare properly. Research your new
WORDS SARAH SCOTT PKF Newcastle
customer before you meet them so you can figure out how best to pitch to them. A good sales conversation is a balancing act between asking questions, staying in control and making sure you listen. One size hardly ever fits all. 4. DON’T FORGET ABOUT YOUR REPEAT CUSTOMERS. Customers often have a great initial sales experience, but they’re soon forgotten about as business owners focus on getting new business through the door. The most valuable people we can market to are those who’ve already had a great experience with us. Take a look at your current customer base and see if there are any customers who used to use your business regularly but don’t anymore. Take action to hook them back in and boost your sales with repeat business. It costs ten times as much to attract a new customer than retain an old one. 5. MAKE IT EASY. There’s nothing worse than wanting to make a purchase and then standing at an empty checkout. Even in the online world, customers are often left searching around for what they want to buy or for someone to ask a question. Make it easy for your customers to find you and make their purchase. For more tips and to get a better understanding of the sales cycle sign up to www.momentumforbusiness.com. With thousands of hours of business coaching between them, intrapreneurs Andrew Beattie, Steve Meyn and Simon Rutherford from PKF and Momentum Business Improvement Specialists, David Crook and Harry Raftos are keen to help businesses face their challenges and overcome them to see success and growth. Through Momentum for Business, the team will take you and your business on a journey which will improve your business and your skills with the overall goal of helping you achieve a better lifestyle for yourself and your family. Try our introduction courses today at no cost, or sign up for $99 a month to get full access to our business library (no lock-in contract; cancel anytime). www.momentumforbusiness.com
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