Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley & Port Stephens| May 2018 by INTOUCH MAGAZINE

I Wanna Hold Your Hand this Mother’s Day!

Pink Race Day

13 May | Lizotte’s Newcastle It was February 1980, ten months before the untimely death of John Lennon, that Australia and possibly the worlds, first tribute show The Beatnix was conceived and produced by Tony Dean - founding member and now owner/ manager. With a show-band background and having experienced popularity in the 1970's touring Australia-wide, Tony was accustomed to playing a range of covers including Beatles, Doobie Brothers, Beach Boys, Hollies, Bee Gees, and the Eagles. “They were all great harmony groups with songs directly from the top twenty hit parade, but then Punk came along, and it was out of the question to continue to play that style of music. It was suggested we play more Beatles music; everybody loves The Beatles,” said Tony. From that simple suggestion, Tony made the brave decision to play only Beatles songs

Clubs in the Community ‘Pink’ Race Day

and hence the first tribute show was conceived. Originally put together for a four week season in Perth, Western Australia, the shows proved so popular that after 18 months it was decided to make a move to Sydney where the show is now based and is available to travel worldwide. The Beatnix Show includes fully authentic musical instruments identical to those used by The Beatles and should prove a real treat for Mum this Mother’s Day when you can catch the show (and a delicious lunch) at Lizotte’s Newcastle. For more information and tickets visit www.lizottes.com.au (be quick!)

S AT U R D AY 7 J U LY

Celebrating 10 years & over $250k raised

COMING

Clubs in the Community will host the ‘Pink’ Race Day on Saturday 7 July at Newcastle Racecourse in support of the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation. The Clubs in the Community Race Day is a wonderful event whereby local clubs have the opportunity to show their support for their local community while having a great day out. This year is the tenth anniversary of the Clubs in the Community Pink Race Day. Over the last ten years, over $250,000 has been raised for the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation Clubs in the Community and the Newcastle Racecourse are both proud to support the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation and encourage those that have been touched by Breast Cancer to come along and support this wonderful day. The Newcastle Racecourse is looking forward to the fun and excitement of the day that will include The Pink Tribute Show, The Pink Stables Marquee, Pink Cocktails and live music in the Ascot Bar with a touch of pink

Up!

10TH ANNUAL CLUBS IN THE COMMUNITY RACE DAY IN SUPPORT OF HUNTER BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION FOR INFORMATION AND TO BOOK across all racecourse venues. Each pink cocktail and each bottle of pink sparkling C A L L 4 9 6 1 1 5 7 3 OR V I S I T N E W C A S T L E R ACE C O U R S E . C O M . AU wine sold will see $5 donated to the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation. CALL NOW TO BOOK Pink Race Day brings the Hunter / NewcastleRacecourse CALL 4961 1573 OR VISIT WWW.NEWCASTLERACECOURSE.COM.AU Breast Cancer Foundation to the forefront of people’s minds and helps to make a difference in the lives of people touched by /N e w ca stl e Ra ce c o u r s e Cancer. Newcastle Jockey Club will host Pink Race Day on Saturday 7 July. Visit T h ink a b o ut y o ur c h o ic e s . Ca ll G a m b ling H e lp o n 1 8 0 0 8 5 8 8 5 8 o r v is it w w w .g a m b ling h e lp .ns w .g o v . a u www.newcastleracecourse.com.au for more details and tickets. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 3

INSIDE INTOUCH

From the Editors... PAGE 39 Speaking with Julia Morris this month (Making Every Bite Count page 14) we are reminded of the importance of using our time wisely and how easy it is to become so frantically busy that we literally burn out. After a sold-out tour of Australia’s capital cities in 2017, Morris is heading back out on the road with her highly acclaimed onewoman show this month. The tour comes just weeks after Morris celebrated her 50th birthday, not with a huge fanfare, as she told intouch Magazine in the lead-up to the big day, but by baking - and eating - a cake with her family. Speaking of birthdays, it seems extraordinary that VIVID is celebrating it’s tenth this month. From May 25th, Vivid Sydney will once again paint the Harbour City in the colour and spectacle of Vivid Light, take over Sydney stages with Vivid Music’s electric performances and collaborations, and provide a global forum for thought-provoking debate and creative discussion at Vivid Ideas. If you’ve never taken the drive down the M1 to see this fabulous event – now is the time! Another event that has seen tremendous growth and is indicative of the tireless work that goes on at our local and internationally acclaimed wine-region is the Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival that kicks off this month for two months of partying and numerous special events, dinners, awards, entertainment and tastings. Who doesn’t love a good festival? This one’s right on our doorstep and with two months of events on offer you’ve no excuse not to hot-trot it up the Hunter Expressway at least once! Family businesses are once again in the spotlight this month when we talk to two local businesses with family at the core. Growing from a single service, Tillys Childcare now provide care and education to 738 children per day, while for Wildflower Furniture, what began as a hobby soon expanded into a full-time job for them both. We hope you love reading our May issue as much as we did putting it together for you. Oh – and Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mums. Enjoy! Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Quentin and Di von Essen | Publishers

Thanks to some longrunning successful conservation programs and the ever-growing number of visitors who come to see these primates every year, they are the only great apes whose populations have increased in recent decades.

PAGE 41

Contents//

- PAGE 33

ISSUE #33 MAY 2018

Features 8

The Best of 10 Years of Vivid Sydney

What's On Highlights

Julia Morris - Making Every Bite Count

Prawn, Crab and Everything in Between

A Festival to Delight all the Senses

Top Drops - Wines to try while You're in the Hunter Valley

Cosy Update - Your Space for Autumn

Bathroom Bliss

Meet the Maker - Good Grief Ceramics

Family Supporting Families - Tillys Play & Development Centres

Emotions at Work

Fashion Fix - Denim Daze

Words of Wisdom Empowering Women

Face the Facts... About Acne

Bespoke Quality and Style

PAGE 27

Regulars 5

Horoscopes

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

What’s on Guide

Eat // Sip // Savour

Contacts

Home + Lifestyle

Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen: quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen: di@intouchmagazine.com.au Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address Level 1, 216 Pacific Highway, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

33 Travel 34

Family + Community

Fashion + Beauty

Health + Wellbeing

Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen and Olivia Rodgers Graphic Design Jess Codrington and Larissa Cluff Features Writer Michelle Meehan

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© Copyright 2018 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.

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

Many women approach turning 50 with a sense of reluctance and trepidation. But while Julia Morris admits she was not exactly thrilled with the idea, the last two years have been like a “coming of age” for the much-loved Australian comedian. Read more page 14.

Michelle Meehan Quentin von Essen Larissa Cluff Megan O'Sullivan Anthony Piggott Lara O'Donnell Natalie Baker

Jess Codrington Mel Murray Deborah Bartlett Anne Ward Kim-Cherie Davidson Wesley Sinclair Dr Katherine Holmes

Di von Essen Tanya Obreza Dr Gary Avery Diane Grover Kylie Mills Lisa Puxty

TAURUS

21 April - 20 May

Astrologer TANYA OBREZA on what’s in the stars this month.

Last year was a long, hard slog. Too many broken promises, too much pressure. No more. The planets push for no less than unbridled hope and happiness! The sky’s the limit this year; you’re ready to step into the spotlight. As you race up the ladder of success, you won’t be lonely at the top. Friends, family, partners and colleagues all rally for you. Romance becomes more exciting, and whether you’re exploring a full-time passion or simply flirting, Taureans are ready to take risks. But it’s not all fun and games; your ambitions also get a chance to shine. Towards winter, it’s all about knuckling down and getting the job done. A final note: if you’re forced to abandon a dream in June, don’t worry - another will soon replace it.

Cancer 22 June - 22 July More than one planet stands ready to defy fate in your name, setting in motion an unusual chain of events. Call it a coincidence, but there’s a chance you’ll receive professional acclaim in May because you recognise opportunities that others miss. Around the new moon on the 15th, an estranged partner may be ready to return to your embrace. The question is, will you be equally thrilled?

Leo 23 July - 22 August The pace slows a little this month. While Leos love a break, they don’t enjoy disruption to their routine. Should the new moon halt plans around the 15th, don’t try to speed things up or you may jeopardise future opportunities. While waiting for your own ventures to get back on track, offer to help friends or family. The favour will eventually be returned ten-fold.

Virgo 23 August - 22 September Chances are you’ve just come through a challenging period. You now regain your usual ambition, Virgo. So dust off confusion and settle into a happier May. Once you regain a sense of balance, you’ll also regain control. Be proud that you’ve emerged as a triumphant, more selfreliant individual. You’d be amazed at what such confidence can do for your life. Love, a surprise gift or some extra cash, perhaps?

Libra 23 September - 22 October Cosmic forces allow you to reclaim your destiny. There will still be the occasional hurdle. Romantically, make your move after the 9th when there’s a better chance of success. Soon after, the planets instigate financial changes. If you’re hoping to finalise negotiations, make sure any agreement is committed to ink. Not everyone is trustworthy this month - tread warily where tricksters may lie.

Scorpio 23 October - 21 November Drop all duties and enjoy. If wondering where to focus your attention, love seems the obvious answer as May holds enough romantic fireworks to light up the sky. Fun is the keyword here, especially if you offload your deeper inhibitions. Do this, and you’re well positioned to dedicate body and soul to relationships. But it’s not all about satisfying carnal desires this month finances skyrocket too.

Sagittarius 22 November - 21 December Don’t let life get to you, Sagittarius. Sometimes things just go awry. Hot topics include intimacy and trust. Mars also introduces unwelcome rivals. Add a suspicious Sun, and the result brings a feisty quality to relationships. Perhaps a partnership has become one-sided - with one doing all the giving. If so, it’s time for new ground rules. In the meantime, keep yourself at a safe distance from known troublemakers.

Capricorn 22 December - 19 January Life becomes more relaxed as your personal planets focus on fun. If single, friends become a great source of introductions. Intimacies take on a gentler tone for coupled Capricorns whose personal affairs have been tense lately. Thanks to Venus, activities increasingly relate to the arts and media. This cosmic influence isn't just limited to social activities; you’re also more skilful at a corporate level.

Aquarius 20 January - 18 February Someone is encouraging you to spread your wings and fly. The trouble is, Aquarians don’t like taking instruction from anyone, even if it’s for your own good. Perhaps a few days break would enable you to reflect from a distance. Still, getting away may not be easy. If asked to stay back, and tend to someone’s needs, don’t oblige out of guilt. Sainthood is a tiring road to follow.

Pisces 19 February - 20 March You’re full of fighting spirit this month. Emotions will swing between sassiness and rage, but life is about constant change. The week after the 15th holds the promise of success, with one dream finally receiving recognition. You’re never short of great ideas, Pisces - but many of them are just unworkable. Not so now. Late May brings a work-hard-play-hard kind of time. Enjoy all that’s ahead.

Aries 21 March - 20 April The sun’s move into your money sector is a strong indicator of economic advances. But a mischievous cosmos may cause some delays. Best bet: reduce your debts and cut expenses. There’s also a romantic detour - perhaps you’ll be mixing business with pleasure. Singles could meet a sexy significant other, while couples enjoy stronger commitment.

Gemini 21 May - 21 June Geminis now choose to explore their inner psyche and professional ideals. Ambitions are challenged as you wonder how much effort they’re really worth. It’s not that life has lost its glow. Quite the opposite, as your spiritual integrity shines through. Loved ones also settle into a more contented mood, mostly because you’re more predictable. Romance looks equally sublime.

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COMING SOON 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.

Ribs & Burgers - Level 2 in the Food Terrace Casey Toys - Level 1 near Target

Over the years, Tanya has established an extensive and wide-ranging international following, mostly due to her reassuring, down to earth presence.

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CONNECTING

otherwise, gets deposited on the sand,” he adds. “The visual possibilities are endless, and each storm, or change in the sea brings new opportunities…the shifting colours reflected from the water’s surface, days where black sun-dried kelp wrack covers the beach, or when it has been at Cooks Hill Galleries swept clean, and the waves leave sequences of overlapping lines in the sand or shallow pools that evaporate leaving rings This month, Cooks Hill Galleries (CHG) presents Brett of salt on the rock platform.” McMahon Intertidal. This online and in gallery exhibition The work presented in the exhibition Intertidal at Cooks opens Friday, 4 May and continues until Monday, 28 May Hill Galleries records some of the material that McMahon has 2018. Why not attend the opening on Friday, May 4th (from encountered over the past 12 months while walking the sand. 6pm) to meet the artist, browse, buy, enjoy a glass of wine and The name of the exhibition Intertidal refers to the zone of the catch up with friends? shore between the high-water mark and low-water mark. McMahon, a local artist, says that for him, one of the “McMahon’s art has a contemporary feel that sits well luxuries of living in Newcastle is the ability to access nature on within architectural and modern-styled environments. There a daily basis. is a restrained influence from Asian art compositions, “For me, this means trekking down to South Dudley rock platform to search for patterns and structures or exploring the identifiable in his use of space surrounding a focal point of a subject, but Brett’s compositions are completely Australian stretch between Merewether and Bar beach during and after influenced. His work will attract minimalist minded collectors big seas or wild weather when all sorts of matter, organic or

THE TIDES

JON STEVENS Thursday 24 May at Lizotte's Jon Stevens is hitting the road for a Best Of tour, traversing all the hits of his career, from his solo work, right through to Noiseworks, INXS, The Dead Daisies and even Jesus Christ Superstar.

With a back catalogue jam-packed with smash hits, and no shortage of great songs to choose from, the revered singersongwriter is looking forward to reliving the different times of his musical journey and sharing those experiences with audiences. Hot off the heels of his latest release, Starlight, which received international acclaim last year, Jon has picked 2018 as the time to embark on the tour that fans have been asking him to do for years. “Producing back-to-back albums (Woman in 2015 and then Starlight in 2017), and then touring those albums meant that I only played a few of the older songs on those tours - it was pretty much all new material,” says Jon. “Fans are always asking me to play certain songs that I haven’t done in years, so here we are in 2018, and it just feels like the right time to explore my back catalogue. It’s interesting for me as I always try to keep moving forward, always adding something new, but I have to say that dusting off some of the old tunes has been nothing short of a revelation. While I can’t play every song, as there are way too many, I have chosen my favourites, and I think fans will love it.” With songs like Welcome To The World, Lock N Load, RIP Millie, Don’t Change and Superstar, to name a few included in the setlist, the show is guaranteed to delight. While Jon has been working on the setlist over the festive break, ready to hit the road, he acknowledges that once the tour starts, it will no doubt be a work in progress.

Colony by Brett McMahon, 220 x 200cm, oil and acrylic on linen.

and those that enjoy a space and balance with a composition," said Gallery Director, Mark Widdup. The official opening and presentation at Cooks Hill Galleries will commence at 6.40pm, but if you can't make the opening evening at the Gallery, you can watch the event live on their Facebook page or view the collection online at www.cookshillgalleries.com.au

“It’s been really difficult as there are so many songs, but I think we have a good balance,” he says. “But, by the same token, once we start touring I’m sure the fans will have their say in wanting to add to the setlist.” Jon Stevens hasn’t really stopped working – touring, writing or recording – since he first started out in the industry as a young musician. More recently, the 2017 release of Starlight saw him co-writing and producing with Eurythmics legend Dave Stewart, who enlisted the great Ringo Starr on drums alongside Australia’s own Orianthi and Richie Sambora on guitars. All that hard work has paid off, as Jon Stevens is now considered one of the country’s premier artists. For Jon though, it is all about getting out on the road and connecting with fans – the most important part of his job. “My main focus now is getting out and performing all around Australia,” he says. “Time seems to be going by at such a rapid rate, and I have missed being on the road in Oz, as I have spent so much time overseas the last couple of years. We are going to play in as many places as possible over the next four months. I also spent January in the studio writing and recording and am well on the way to completing a new album. I will continue to create and experiment and do my very best every time I climb on the stage and share with the fans a moment in time that you only get when you see a performer live.” Tickets to The Best Of Jon Stevens Live are on sale now at www.lizottes.com.au

YOUR PERFECT

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G COMIN !

WALK FOR DEMENTIA AT SPEERS POINT will even receive a FREE Memory Walk & Dementia is the condition that will Jog event T-shirt! have the greatest social and economic All funds raised increase Dementia impact on our time. In NSW an estimated 138,700 people are living with dementia, Australia's ability to provide vital support services, such as counselling, support so it’s no surprise that the services of groups, education to help family carers Dementia Australia have never been in and professional training across NSW. higher demand. These services reduce feelings of On Sunday, May 20 the team from isolation and empower people living with Dementia Australia is excited to return dementia and those caring for them. With to Speers Point Park for the Memory your help, they can make sure that our Walk & Jog. Register for the 2km walk, support is always available to those who 7.5km walk or 7.5km run and help those need it. To register, please visit impacted by joining the race against dementia. The first 500 people to register www.memorywalk.com.au

Why not consider purchasing a VIP ticket? There are only 50 tickets available, and you can take your time shopping for one whole hour from 9am before the event opens to the rest of the public at 10am. Browse in peace without the crowd crush. VIP Ticket are $25 each and include a voucher for a free drink. General entry tickets are $5 each, but worth pre-booking online to skip the queue. Raid My Wardrobe are proudly supporting the Uplift Project at this event. On the day they’ll be conducting a ‘Bra Drive’ – gifting underprivileged women with essential clothing items for comfort, well-being and employment opportunities. Simply bring your pre-loved items along and drop them into the collection bins. For more information about acceptable items visit www.raidmywardrobe.com.au

RAID MY WARDROBE Supporting Uplift Australia

On June 3rd, get along to Raid My Wardrobe to experience what everyone is talking about! Preloved fashion shopping at its best with 50 hand selected stalls full of hundreds of high quality, high end/high street women's clothing, shoes, handbags jewellery and accessories for all sizes 6 - 26. With brands like Sass & Bide, Lisa Ho, Zimmerman, Alice McCall, Mimco, Wayne Cooper, Leona Edmiston, Metalicus, Cooper Street, Veronika Maine, One Teaspoon, Alannah Hill and many many more, you don’t want to miss this event!

WHEN Sunday June 3. Shopping hours are 9am to 1pm for VIPs or 10am to 1pm for general entry. WHERE Newcastle Basketball Stadium, Cnr Curley Rd and Young Rd, Broadmeadow. DETAILS Sales are cash only, but there is an ATM on-site. Fitting rooms, free parking, coffee and refreshments will all be available. www.trybooking.com/UZAH

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May 25 - June 16

10 YEARS OF VIVID SYDNEY WORDS DI VON ESSEN

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Fragmented - Artist impression by Mandylights

The world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas, Vivid Sydney returns for its 10th year in 2018 with a spectacular new precinct at Luna Park, the return of much-loved Customs House, and a fantastical blend of everyday objects and Australian-inspired motifs on the sails of the Sydney Opera House from May 25th to June 16th. The multi-award-winning Winter festival attracted a recordbreaking 2.33 million attendees in 2017, and Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Adam Marshall, said that since 2011, the overnight visitor spend from Vivid Sydney has gone from just $6 million to delivering an incredible $143 million of visitor expenditure into the NSW economy in 2017. “Over 23 nights from Friday 25 May to Saturday 16 June, Vivid Sydney will paint the Harbour City in the colour and spectacle of Vivid Light, take over Sydney stages with Vivid Music’s electric performances and collaborations, and provide a global forum for thought-provoking debate and creative discussion at Vivid Ideas,” said Mr Marshall. “Vivid Sydney has delighted and inspired people from around Australia and the world. With the Festival now in its 10th year, visitors and locals alike can once again expect to be mesmerised by larger installations and a gripping Music and Ideas offering. Visitors are encouraged to start planning their trip early to get the most out of this year’s exciting lineup,” he added.

Metamathemagical – Bouquet. Artist impression by Jonathan Zawada

following an LED refit, which has included a massive boost in the number of lights adorning the wheel. In celebration of their 100 year anniversary, May Gibbs’ iconic and immortal characters, Snugglepot and Cuddlepie and their stalwart companions come to life on the façade of Customs House, as they journey through the Australian Bush and encounter the weird, the wonderful, and things quite unknown altogether. This whimsical piece will be narrated by renowned Australian film and television actress Noni Hazlehurst AM, Patron of the Australian Children’s Laureate, and beloved by Play School devotees far and wide. Network Ten and MasterChef Australia will bring a magical experience to the façade of the ASN Co. Building in The Rocks, in celebration of both Masterchef and Vivid Sydney’s 10th Birthday with Mystery Gâteau. Mini construction-worker chefs will guide you on a journey of fun and wonderment, with the famous MasterChef clock ticking down to the final extraordinary surprise. And of course, all eyes will be turned to the WorldHeritage listed Sydney Opera House at the centre of the Vivid Light Walk for Lighting of the Sails, created in 2018 by award-winning Australian artist Jonathan Zawada. Visitors will be captivated by Metamathemagical, a bold and dynamic display of morphing digital sculptures inspired by recognisable Australian motifs across science, nature and culture. THE BEST OF VIVID MUSIC Vivid Music ups the ante in 2018 with an electric line-up, from noise to jazz, sonic experimentation to soul. Highlights include a one-night-only performance by Grammy awardwinning rock-goddess St. Vincent, and the return of Curve Ball headlined by Alison Wonderland – a large-scale live music and art event created by the team behind Field Day, Harbourlife and Listen Out – both at Carriageworks. Vivid LIVE at the Sydney Opera House hosts a stellar lineup of Australian exclusives as part of Vivid Sydney, including several Opera House debuts. Highlights this year include American dream-pop icons Mazzy Star, the godfather of West Coast rap Ice Cube, acclaimed 90's indie rock singer/ songwriter Cat Power, Grammy award-winning artist Solange, and the long-awaited collaboration between iconic Australian artists Daniel Johns and Luke Steele.

THE BEST OF VIVID IDEAS Vivid Ideas 2018 showcases those who are leading the way in technology, creativity and science. Game changers and creative catalysts this year include film-maker, marine explorer and conservationist James Cameron. In a Vivid Sydney exclusive, James will explore his passion for science and technology, and how it has influenced his work as a film director and environmentalist. James will be joined in conversation by Adam Spencer, while in Sydney to open the James Cameron – Challenging the Deep exhibition at the Australian National Maritime Museum. Australian global success story Dare Jennings – founder of Mambo Clothing, Phantom Records and Deus ex Machina Snugglepot and Cuddlepie at Customs House – joins his good friend James Valentine to discuss creating cult brands that cut across age and lifestyles as well the joys of throwing out the rulebook. THE BEST OF VIVID LIGHT Futurist and game developer, Jane McGonigal can prove For the first time, Vivid Sydney’s dazzling Light Walk extends games have the power to transform our real world lives. She to new precinct Luna Park Sydney, where the iconic amusement park comes alive with a large-scale projection on and Artificial Intelligence expert Kriti Sharma join Vivid Ideas to explore the latest in AI, VR and gaming to ask what kind of the façade of Coney Island. The show celebrates the history, society we can create with technology. magic, creativity, engineering, fantasy and imagination that have come together to create millions of memories on this For more information about the entire Vivid Program visit unique and special site. This year also marks the first time www.vividsydney.com Luna Park’s iconic Ferris Wheel will be lit for the festival www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 9

What’s on? TUESDAY, MAY 1

SATURDAY, MAY 12

Hunter Valley Food & Wine Festival This annual event showcases the region’s diverse wine and food culture with a series of themed activities throughout May and June. Visit www.winecountry.com.au

WEDNESDAY, MAY 2

►COMING UP MAY WEDNESDAY 2ND George Michael Tribute Wests New Lambton THURSDAY 3RD 1927 Wallsend Diggers FRIDAY 4TH Chase the Sun Stag and Hunter Hotel Daryl James FogHorn Brewhouse SATURDAY 5TH Carmina Burana Conservatorium of Music The Lamplighters The Exchange SUNDAY 6TH Misbehave The Beach Hotel Jason Bone Customs House Hotel WEDNESDAY 9TH Live N' Local - Seven Suns Band + Good Grief + Teasha Jackson Lizotte's THURSDAY 10TH DZ Deathrays The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 11TH Atlas Young + Red Fang + Drunk Mums The Cambridge Hotel The Ultimate Pink Show Mezz Bar Angus & Julia Stone Civic Theatre SATURDAY 12TH The Black Sails The Beach Hotel TripleZero Hotel Delany Matty G Criterion Pub & Kitchen SUNDAY 13TH Matt McLaren Pippis at the Point + The Lucky WEDNESDAY 16TH Live N' Local - Mokobenj + Molly Millington + Sienna Lace Lizotte's THURSDAY 17TH Secrets The Small Ballroom FRIDAY 18TH Coast and Ocean Northern Star Hotel SATURDAY 19TH Silverstein + Comeback Kid The Cambridge Hotel Uptown Duo Queens Wharf Hotel The Lamplighters Wickham Park Hotel SUNDAY 20TH Mark Wells The Beach Hotel Tyler John Customs House Hotel Sundays Record Duo 5 Sawyers WEDNESDAY 23RD Live N' Local - Plastic Voyage + Paris Grace + Rodney Coote Lizotte's THURSDAY 24TH Diana Anaid The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 25TH Boo Seeka The Cambridge Hotel SATURDAY 26TH All Access 80's Warners Bay Hotel Born Jovi Cardiff RSL SUNDAY 27TH The Humm The Beach Hotel TUESDAY 29TH Jet NEX WEDNESDAY 30TH Live N' Local - Anyerin + Holly Mae + Austin Mackay Lizotte's

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May Movie Month Enjoy a month of free films at Event Cinemas Glendale for a range of sustainability themed films, including Living In Future’s Past, Happy and White Waves, with expert guest speakers at each session. Visit www.lakemac.com.au to book.

FRIDAY, MAY 4 Tocal Field Days See today's farming on show through exhibitors, demonstrations and much more! 9am - 5pm (4pm Sun), Tocal. 4-6 May. Visit www.tocalfielddays.com Play Outside - Hunter Wetlands Day Enjoy dip netting, a reptile encounter, searching for wildlife, a bbq and more. Suitable for 2-5yr olds, $5 per family. Bookings essential at www.eventbrite.com.au

2018 Traffic Jam Live Newcastle A Sensory Processing Approach to Challenges Associated with Autism, ADHD, Learning and Behavioural Differences Wests Newcastle. www.sensorytools.net Archibald Prize 2017 See the 2017 winner - Mitch Cairns Agatha Gothe-Snape at Newcastle Art Gallery from 12 May - 24 June.

Olive Tree Market Civic Park, 9am - 3pm. Around Hermitage Wine, Food and Film Festival Enjoy the best Aussie short films at FLiCKERFEST at Peter Drayton’s Winery and Brewhouse on May 5. For tickets visit www.aroundhermitage.com.au Barry Humphries – The Man Behind The Mask A revealing, funny and moving trip through Humphries' colourful life and theatrical career. 5+6 May, Civic Theatre. Amazing A spectacular mix of circus, magic, comedy, audience participation and Las Vegas style stage illusions! Lake Macquarie Performing Arts Centre. Tickets: www.trybooking.com AHA NSW Race Day Newcastle Racecourse. Pet Photography Fundraiser Help raise funds for the RSPCA, $15 for 5 photos (emailed). All pets welcome, dogs on leashes and cats in carriers. 11am - 1pm, Islington Park. First in, best dressed! Concert in the Park Celebrating Newcastle Grammar School's 100 year centenary. BYO picnic rug, food is available. King Edward Park, 3pm - 7pm. Upper Hunter Wine and Food Affair Denman's annual wine and food gourmet feast extravaganza! Entry: adults $15 (incl. beer or wine glass with tasting tokens), kids $5 (incl. all day ride pass). 11am - 4.30pm, Ogilvie Street, Denman.

TUESDAY, MAY 8 Newcastle Midweek EGroup Race Day Newcastle Racecourse.

THURSDAY, MAY 10 2018 Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour Tower Cinemas, Newcastle. For tickets visit www.banffaustralia.com.au

FRIDAY, MAY 11 The Orchid & the Crow A comedy cabaret about losing parts of yourself and finding faith in an unexpected place - and Lance Armstrong. 11+12 May, The Playhouse.

Lovedale Long Lunch A great progressive day out with gourmet food, wine and entertainment! 19+20 May. Visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au L&H Electrical Race Day Newcastle Racecourse. The World’s Biggest Car Boot Sale Newcastle Entertainment Centre, 8am - 2pm.

Rescue your Fitness - Dog Rescue Newcastle Be matched up with a dog in need, to walk to Empire park! Tickets are limited to 40, 2 people per dog. All are welcome on the day, Dixon Park Beach, 10am. www.trybooking.com/370381

Julia Morris – Lift and Separate: Golden Jubilee Tour Civic Theatre.

Menopause the Musical Inspired by a hot flush and a bottle of wine! Belmont 16s.

RSPCA Million Paws Walk 2018 Foreshore Park, 8.30am - 2pm. www.millionpawswalk.com.au

SUNDAY, MAY 13 Mother's Day Classic Gather friends and family to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation with a walk or run around Newcastle Foreshore. Visit www.mothersdayclassic.com.au

TUESDAY, MAY 15

SATURDAY, MAY 5

Australian Plants Society Annual Plant Sale A large and varied range of Australian Native plants will be available 9:30am till 1pm. Hunter Wetlands Centre.

Lunaticks Live Talk Show This live tech show is a perfect place for nerds, geeks, innovators and tech entrepreneurs, plus investors! Foghorn Brewhouse, reserve your seat at www.thelunatickssociety.com.au Mother's Day Picnic and Open Day at Stanley Park Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a variety of food vans, market stalls and music! BYO picnic is permitted. Entry is $5 per car. 11am - 4pm.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 16 You're Kidding Me Expo An expo bringing together children and family services from all around Lake Mac. See over 40 family exhibitors, free car seat checks with KidSafe, kids entertainment and market stalls. 9.30am - 12.30pm, Event Cinemas Glendale. www.lakemac.com.au

THURSDAY, MAY 17 A Mystery Musical The Very Popular Theatre Company team have carefully selected a well-known and award-winning musical to produce in 2018. The only catch? You won't know what it is until opening night! 17-19 May, The Playhouse. Josephine Wants to Dance A new Australian musical based on the hugely popular picture book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley. 17+18 May, Civic Theatre. Newcastle Lake Macquarie Career & Training Expo Hundreds of exhibitors with training options and pathways. Newcastle Racecourse, 11am - 2pm.

FRIDAY, MAY 18 Autumn Open Night - The Wedding Collective Featuring some of the most creative, fun and recognised local wedding suppliers. Doran St, Carrington. Register at www.eventbrite.com.au (free).

SATURDAY, MAY 19 Morpeth Chapel Jazz Soak up the atmosphere of New Orleans and traditional jazz bands playing in and around the Morpeth! Check the program at www.chapeljazz.com, 19+20 May. Tex Perkins – The Man in Black, The Songs + Story of Johnny Cash Civic Theatre.

SUNDAY, MAY 20

MONDAY, MAY 21 The Young Guns Comedy Tour At the Crown & Anchor Hotel. Tickets at www.trybooking.com

TUESDAY, MAY 22 Quiet Faith A uniquely presented, immersive experience, where the audience is seated inside the set. 22-26 May, Civic Theatre. Shine It Up with Jackie Gillies Psychic Medium Jackie Gillies, known from The Real Housewives of Melbourne and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here is taking her infectious personality on the road. Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre (NEX).

WEDNESDAY, MAY 23 PAW Patrol Live! The Great Pirate Adventure Three performances at Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

FRIDAY, MAY 25 Newcastle Stamp and Coin Expo 28 national dealers of stamps, coins and postcards will be present, buying and selling. Bring your old coins, medals, collections for valuation or purchase. 25-27 May. Visit www.newcastlephilatelicsociety.org.au Last Fridays at NAG Enjoy after-hours access to Newcastle Art Gallery exhibitions, live music, a drink at the pop up bar. Open until 8pm. Caravan, Camping, 4wd, Fish & Boat Show Over 300 exhibitors! Adults $15, Pensioners $11, kids free (with adults). 9am - 5pm (4pm Sun), Maitland Showground, 25-27 May. www.ruralscene.com.au

SATURDAY, MAY 26 Drive in Movie Night at Rathmines Park A retro drive-in movie night! Tickets $30, available from www.lakesidemarketing.com.au/drive-in Straight Outta Compo Starring the guys from Here Come The Habibs and Fat Pizza! Wests New Lambton. Variety Family Fun Day Welcome the Variety NSW Bash back into Newcastle with food trucks, kids amusement rides ($5) and live entertainment! Newcastle Foreshore, 11am - 3pm.

SUNDAY, MAY 27 Urban Cellar Door at The Lucky Hotel For a $20 ticket, you'll get over 30 tastings from 6 different Hunter Valley wineries, plus canapés and live music from 2.30pm - 5pm! www.theluckyhotel.com.au

Do you have a local event or gig coming up next month? Email us before the 15th of this month at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

What’s on? Coming Up IN JUNE

COMING UP//

Live & Cookin’

FRIDAY 1ST Cash Only - The Johnny Cash Tribute Wests New Lambton.

31 Morehead Street, Lambton

SUNDAY 3RD Raid My Wardrobe Women's preloved fashion event at Newcastle Basketball Stadium. 10am - 1pm (9am VIP's), general entry $5 or $25 VIP. Buy your tickets online at www.raidmywardrobe.com.au Confessions of A Serial Killer Interactive Crime Theatre have created the story of Ivan Milat in a secret location in Glenrock Conservation Park. 3-28 June. www.darkstories.com.au/theatre

TUESDAY 5TH BiG Day in at University of Newcastle Hear from cool industry speakers and visit exhibitor organisations to learn about scholarships and internships, find out about courses, grad jobs and loads more. Tickets $10 at www.thebigdayin.com.au

THURSDAY 7TH APIA Good Times Tour This year join Brian Cadd, Marcia Hines, Russell Morris, Leo Sayer and John Paul Young for a once-in-alifetime concert experience! Civic Theatre.

FRIDAY 8TH Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow Civic Theatre, 8-10 June.

SATURDAY 9TH The Angels Belmont 16s. ALFABS Race Day Newcastle Racecourse. The Martini Lounge Live Blues & Burlesque Show Lizotte's. Alex 'Loosest Aussie Bloke' Williamson At Nex.

MONDAY 11TH Celtic Illusion Civic Theatre.

SUNDAY 17TH Wellness Festival Markets, live music, yoga meditation, food, workshops and speakers. Tickets at www.redheadwellness.com

THURSDAY 21ST Diosounds A showcase of musical talent by students in the secondary schools of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, featuring songs by the Beatles, Bob Marley, Amy Winehouse and many more. Civic Theatre.

FRIDAY 22ND Float Your Boat An open challenge for boat owners to dress up their boats with lights and take part in a flotilla parade held over 22+23 June on our beautiful Lake Macquarie. There are cash prizes! Visit www.lakemac.com.au for more info or to register.

Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED

MAY

Brothers 3

Sunday, June 17, 2018 Folk and country Brothers 3 are an Australian country/folk/pop band made up of siblings, Shardyn (21), Tayzin (20) and Makirum (19). In 2014 they auditioned for the XFactor and won all four of the judges over with their personalities and unique harmonies, before battling it out and placing third in the grand finale. They’ve toured Australia extensively with The Lucky Ones Tour in 2014 and with The Brothers Never Part Tour in 2016. And now in 2017 they’re once again hitting the road with their new tour Folk & Country. The Folk & Country tour will include hits from artists such as Mumford and Sons, Simon and Garfunkel and Cat Stevens all the way to Alan Jackson, Johnny Cash and Zac Brown Band among many others. Also included are Australian hero’s Keith Urban and Matt Corby as well as legendary performers The Seekers and Slim Dusty. When the boys first started out they used to play songs from the Folk & Country repertoire for their fans at just 10, 11 and 12. “I remember the first time we played a Johnny Cash song on stage. It was at a pub and we started singing Ghost Riders in The Sky. Everyone was drunk, and someone actually lit themselves on fire and tried to put it out with a stock whip! So, what better reason to rekindle that experience,” Makirum laughs. With their multi-instrumentalist skills, fun loving personalities and out of this world’s harmonies these three brothers from Mudgee will be one band you don’t want to miss! For more information on Brothers 3 head to www.brothers3.com or find them on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to keep up to date. Visit www.lizottes.com.au for tickets to their Newcastle show on June 17.

Win!

Thanks to the crew at Lizotte’s we have 2 x double passes (show only) to give away to 2 lucky readers. Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au/Giveaways to enter – entries close May 31st, 2018.

MARK WILKINSON Thursday 3 VAN THE MAN Friday 4 ANGRY OLD MEN Saturday 5 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH THE EDITH PIAF STORY Sunday 6 AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH JOSEPH TAWADROS Sunday 6 THE CHERUBS Thursday 10 BONDI CIGARS Friday 11 THE IDEA OF NORTH Saturday 12 MOTHERS DAY LUNCH WITH THE BEATNIX Sunday 13 DR FEELGOOD Tuesday 15 ROLLING STONES TRIBUTE Friday 18 MY LEONARD COHEN Saturday 19 THE BEST OF JON STEVENS Thursday 24 DIAMOND - THE SHOW Friday 25 RUMOURS - A TRIBUTE TO FLEETWOOD MAC Saturday 26 MIKE MCCARTHY BAND + AMY VEE Thursday 31

JUNE THE EAGLES SHOW Friday 1 THE LEGENDARY RICHARD CLAPTON Saturday 2 + Sunday 3

PERCH CREEK Thursday 7 THE CHRISSY HYNDE STORY Friday 8

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What's On

Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour Thursday, 10th May This prestigious international film competition tour is back at Tower Cinemas once again, screening the best of the best short films and documentaries about mountain culture, sports, and environment. With 2.5 hours of adrenaline-pumping action, cinematography, danger and inspiration, these films will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. It's definitely the next best thing to actually partaking in these insanely lifechanging adventures! From Napalese native Apa Sherpa climbing Mount Everest 21 times and counting, to British duo Ben Sadd and James Trundle building a canoe from scratch and sailing it through the Amazon (what could go wrong there?), this film tour will leave you in awe. Tickets are $30.50 for adults and $22.50 for children (plus booking fee). Visit www.banffaustralia.com.au

HIGHLIGHTS

Archibald Prize 2017 - Regional Tour Tocal Field Days Friday 4th - Sunday 6th May This annual family fun day has over 300 exhibitions, displays and activities on offer for the whole family to learn, ride, see, touch and pat (animals that is)! There will also be a Billy boiling competition, a Ute Muster and plenty of live entertainment. Tickets at the gate cost $18 adult, $15 conc, and kids 5-16 $2. Tocal Agricultural Centre, 9am - 5pm (4pm Sunday). Visit www.tocalfielddays.com

Friday, 11th May - Sunday, 24th June First awarded in 1921, the Archibald Prize is prestigious, yet controversial. Australia's foremost portraiture prize, paintings are judged by the trustees of the Art Gallery of NSW and the winner awarded a whopping $100,000. The Archibald Prize exhibition is now a who’s who of Australian culture – from politicians to celebrities, sporting heroes to artists, many iconic and well-known Australians have sat down to be memorialised for this competition; as entry states that the painting must have been painted in the past year from a live sitting. Once chosen, finalists embark on a year long regional tour - hitting our own Newcastle Art Gallery this month. Entry to the exhibition is $10 general admission, $7 concession and children under 12 free; the gallery is open 10am to 5pm Tuesday to Sunday. www.nag.org.au

Upper Hunter Food & Wine Affair Saturday, 5th May The Hunter's best street party takes over Ogilvie St, Denman this month with an incredible collection of street and gourmet foods, craft beer, cider and wine, plus loads of entertainment! The kids will even be kept busy with a huge fun park full of rides and activities (free with their $5 entry!).Visit www.upperhunterwineandfoodaffair.com.au

A Story About Dreams & Believing in Yourself Thursday 17th + Friday 18th May Presented by the Monkey Baa Theatre Company, Josephine Wants to Dance is a brand new Australian

musical based on the hugely popular picture book by Jackie French and Bruce Whatley. When a ballet troupe comes to the sleepy town of Shaggy Gully Josephine learns that there is another way to dance – ballet. As the ballet company prepares to perform, Josephine sneaks into town to peer through the window as the dancers rehearse, watching for hours and hours as they perfect their routine. Will Josephine ever get to dance? Perfect for young audiences from 4 to 9 years and their families, and brought to you by the team that created the award-winning Pete the Sheep, this hilarious new work by Monkey Baa brings to life a tale about a bush Kangaroo you’ll never forget! You can catch Josephine Wants to Dance at the Civic Theatre Newcastle this May. For tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Read the digital edition of intouch each month at www.intouchmagazine.com.au Find out what’s on at your fingertips. /intouchmagazines

12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

©Mitch Cairns - Agatha Gothe-Snape (detail), Archibald Prize 2017 winner

@intouchmagazines

Giving Back on Mother's Day Sunday, 13th May Mother's Day is the perfect time to bring the whole family together - so why not enjoy some outdoor exercise and raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation with The Mother’s Day Classic! This nation-wide community event is in its third year here in Newcastle, offering participants a 4km walk and a 6km run starting at Camp Shortland (the park behind Nobbys Beach), leading entrants around Newcastle Beach to King Edward Park. So why not bring everyone together to remember, celebrate and honour those touched by breast cancer? Entry begins at $10 child and $20 adult for the walk. If you can't join in on the day don’t worry, you can still register as a ‘Support in Spirit’ participant (this could be a great donation gift!). Visit www.mothersdayclassic.com.au

Australia's Biggest Doggy Day Out! Sunday, 20th May In a fun-filled day for the whole family, the RSPCA's Million Paws Walk at Newcastle Foreshore Park will be packed with entertainment and activities for both dogs

A Mystery Musical! Thursday 17th - Saturday 19th May Would you dare go see a production, with zero hints as to what you were about to experience? Well, in a creative risk, The Very Popular Theatre Company have organised just that - experimenting with the conventional understanding of going to the theatre that audiences are used to. The team have carefully selected a well-known, award winning musical to produce this year, with the only catch being that you won't know what it is until opening night! The creative team have worked very hard to keep everything under wraps, and the anticipation is overwhelming! Join multi-award winning Director Daniel Stoddart (RENT, Shrek JR) and Director/Choreographer James Tolhurst (Suessical KIDS, Wicked) as they lead a superb team of creatives in what is sure to be a fantastic row of performances at The Playhouse. For tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

and dog-lovers alike. It doesn't even matter if you don't have your own pooch - you can come along and join in the fun anyway (and possibly make some new four-legged friends!). This day is all about fundraising for a future free from neglect and abandonment, so whether you are walking solo or with a friend you'll be helping to raise much needed funds. For the walk you can buy tickets online, or registrations open on the day at 8.30am. The walk kicks off at 10am, with Big Dog appropriately cutting the ribbon to begin a gentle 2.5km walk. Until 2pm there will be kids activities, stalls and competitions for owners and their best friends, giveaways and music! Visit www.millionpawswalk.com.au

Morpeth Chapel Jazz Saturday, 19th May + Sunday, 20th May An iconic heritage filled town in its own right, Morpeth is a quaint and charming destination well-worth a visit near Maitland. Each year, it's biggest event, Morpeth Chapel Jazz, takes over with exotic talent from all around the country gathering to share their soundly stories. The event began in 1988, not long after the township was saved from demolition. The jazz festival has since taken on a life of its own, now hosted by the Catholic, Anglican and Uniting churches, and heavily supported by local businesses. The festival kicks off at midday Saturday with food and market stalls on Swan street, amongst the novelty shops, cafés and boutiques. Sunday begins early with plenty happening from 9am to 4pm. Find a map and program of events at www.chapeljazz.com/programme

NEXT Month!

funnymakers from Australia and beyond, the lineup changing from one town to the next. This time round the show is led by MC Bob Franklin, who you may recognise from appearances on Thank God You're Here and Talking ‘bout Your Generation among others. The lineup includes Australian comic and self-proclaimed idiot Josh Earl, tradition breaking Singaporean Sharul Channa, the rawly honest Suzi Ruffell (USA) and local Comedy on the Road Sydney entertainer Tom Cashman. This roving comedy tour has been Friday 8th - Sunday 10th June The Melbourne International Comedy Festival travelling the country-side for almost 20 Roadshow is making its way around Australia, years with a generous 2.5 hours of stand-up, sketch, satire, silliness and song, and well home-delivering comic talent to Newcastle's worth checking out. Tickets begin at $45, Civic Theatre early June. visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au The show features a fantastic array of

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Cover Story

Julia

MORRIS

Making Every Bite Count Many women approach turning 50 with a sense of reluctance and trepidation. But while Julia Morris admits she was not exactly thrilled with the idea, the last two years have been like a “coming of age” for the much-loved Australian comedian, who is now ready - after hitting the birthday milestone last month - to “embrace the second phase” of her life with her trademark honesty and humour. Not surprisingly, Morris is also using the recent turning points in her life as fodder for the masses in her latest stand-up comedy show Lift and Separate. WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

“I have been trying to hold onto my youth through my 40's, and as I get closer to 50 I’m thinking I’m not sure I’m ever going to be on the catwalks of Milan now, at this late stage,” she said in a typical self-deprecating manner. “So all of the sacrifices of ‘I won’t have a chocolate there’ or ‘I better not have that’ or ‘I’d better not do that’, all of a sudden there’s been a real crossover. “And part of it has been clothing for me, which sounds odd, and working out what’s age-appropriate because I just think I look hot in everything. “So when I see photos I’m thinking ‘Oh dear look at that strange girl hugging that basset hound’ and then I realise oh no, that’s just a plunging neckline. “It’s very odd to work out when is the right moment to say ‘I’m no longer going to be the oldest person in this young group, I’m now going to be the youngest person in this old group, look how hot I am’… it really sets you free. “I don’t look 20 and nor would I want to be 20 anymore, the life experiences that I’ve had have led me to this wonderful place. “So I guess coming to that realisation that I do have to let go of some of that real youth stuff and start to embrace that second phase of my life if 50 is the halfway point, may I be so lucky. “I didn’t take to it like a duck to water, let’s put it that way, 14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

I was dragged onto the other side by life, and the audience is going to hear all about it. “The ‘Lift and Separate’ (reference) is not just about what do I do with my body, but why am I letting it get me down? “There’s no lessons to be taught; there’s only funny stories to be heard.” After a sold-out tour of Australia’s capital cities in 2017, Morris is heading back out on the road with her highly acclaimed one-woman show this month. The whirlwind 19-date “Golden Jubilee Tour” will take in a host of regional areas along the east coast of Australia, including a stop at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre on Sunday, May 20. The tour comes just weeks after Morris celebrated her 50th birthday, not with a huge fanfare, as she told intouch Magazine in the lead-up to the big day, but by baking - and eating - a cake with her husband, Welsh comedian Dan Thomas, and their daughters Ruby, 11 and Sophie, 9, followed by a visit to her parents, who still live on the Central Coast where she grew up. “First of all I said to Dan, my husband, when he asked me in December what do I want to do (for my birthday), and I said I think I want to go to Rockefeller Center and go up to the Rainbow Room and have dinner, that’s what I’d like to do, in New York City,” Morris said. “And then halfway through Africa (filming the most recent

season of I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!), I thought ‘if I have to get on another long-haul flight any time soon I’m going to cut myself, so then I thought maybe I'll just have a big party.’ “Then I thought of how much I’d have to talk to everyone. And it was ‘Oh God, I can’t do it, the leaping guilt of not talking to anyone as long as I spoke to the other person will just about do my head in,’ and so it was something as simple as Dan saying ‘What do you want to do on the day you turn 50?’ “And so I thought well, I really just want to spend it with Dan and the girls. The girls are taking the day off school and, I don’t know if you have seen the television show Nailed It where very mediocre cooks make cakes that are very, very much out of their skill set, so we’re making a big cake, the girls and Dan and I, then we’re going to eat it. “Then on the Saturday, I’m flying up to see Mum and Dad where I’ll celebrate with them (on the Central Coast). “I’ll head up and spend the afternoon having a beautiful lunch and evening with them, and then back to work.” The way in which she celebrated, and her decision to restrict her current tour to the east coast of Australia, reflects the importance Morris places on family life and the realisations she came to in 2016 following a period of seemingly inexplicable emotional turmoil. At the time she admits to feeling overwhelmed by bursts of “fury” – a state completely at odds with her ever-smiling, always laughing public persona.

While at first, she thought it was the result of menopause, Morris came to realise, with the help of a psychologist, that she was simply stretching herself too thin with the pressures of work. An in-demand actor and comedian, Morris seemed to be almost everywhere, starring as Gemma in the Australian ensemble drama House Husbands, co-hosting the reality TV smash hit I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here! with Newcastle-born vet Dr Chris Brown, and on the road with her own stand-up shows. But while the demands were clearly taking their toll on her emotions, Morris admits that her situation is no different to what many people feel as they try desperately to keep all the balls in the air. “Everyone’s the same amount of busy. Everyone I speak to seems to be as overwrought with work and life as I am, so it’s so relative, I don’t think I’m going harder than anyone else, it’s just that I do it in so many different places,” she said. “I hadn’t really done enough research on the differences between perimenopause and menopause. So the truth of it is actually that I thought I was going completely insane and then went to see the psychologist and she said look, I don’t mean to burst your bubble, but you’re just really busy. Let’s put things in place, so you don’t leap out of the car when someone takes your car spot and bash them to death. “I have to keep things pretty emotionvolume turned down. Otherwise, I’m just spinning in my wheels. I’m not able to take on as much as I did when I was younger, and yet still seem to be doing so, so I definitely had to go and learn some skills so as not to be furious all the time. “The fury (I felt) is in another league. In actual fact, the show (Lift and Separate) is about lots of those stories of losing my cool when I shouldn’t have… but what can you do, you’ve just got to try and not do it again.” Talking with the therapist helped Morris prioritise things, with family right at the top of the list – however finding a balance between the various demands in her life still isn’t easy. “I rarely use the word balance because I’ve never seen it, it just doesn’t exist in my life,” Morris said. “The one thing that always gives is that you’re not as good a friend as your friends are. I’m not that active in contacting my friends; they’re very good with saying ok come on, we haven’t seen you for a few months, what are you doing? Let’s step out. “Most of the time is really time for work and for my family, so you do need to step out every so often just to mix it up a little bit and not go stir crazy with only doing those things. “But my girls are 9 and 11, so they’re still at the ages where they’re speaking to us. I want to be around as much as possible for that because I’m sure they’re not even going to care once they’re in their teen years, they’re not really going to mind whether I’m

there or not, it will be one less lecture they’re going to hear. “Family is central to everyone; you just can’t help it; these human beings rely on you for pretty much every waking moment of theirs.

“Sometimes the over-whelming straightjacket of being a parent makes my travelling just seem glorious. But even that’s a coming of age too; I don’t want to be in a hotel room by myself on the other side of the country. If I’ve got a chance and I’ve got time I’d just rather hang with my peeps.” That being said, Morris is still determined to make the most of what is the most successful and in-demand period in her career. In July, Morris will begin taping episodes for the newest addition to Australia’s already packed reality television dating genre – Blind Date. A contemporary version of the hugely successful British dating show, Morris said she was excited about adding her own unique spin to the format. “Oh my gosh I am pretty excited, we start shooting halfway through July, and we’re seeing all sorts of couples in this new version of the show, this updated version of the lovely Cilla Black’s Blind Date,” she said. “I think that I will bring a knowing, winking edge to this genre. Having lived through it, all sorts of different experiences, my life experiences will help young people find love in a very funny atmosphere.” With a career spanning 33 years, Morris certainly has plenty of experiences to draw on. Her time in the spotlight began in 1985 with her television debut at the age of 17 on New Faces. The show, which was hosted by Bert Newton, proved to be a hotbed for fresh talent, with many contestants going on to build long and successful careers, including Morris, television personality Daryl Somers, comedians Paul Hogan and Col Elliott, as well as country and western stars Keith Urban and John Williamson. By 1995 Morris was a household name in Australia, starring in shows including Full Frontal, In Melbourne Tonight and Beauty and the Beast. She then spent seven years living and working in the UK, where she met her husband, before they returned to Australia in 2007 following the birth of their first daughter. Continued next page ►

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(Continued) Morris’ star continued to rise with appearances in everything from the Astra-Award winning Singing Office to winning popular celebrity singing show It Takes Two with opera star David Hobson. A string of acclaimed and award-winning stand-up comedy shows, the publication of the memoirs of her time abroad Don’t You Know Who I Used To Be, and more television appearances followed before Morris was cast in her first major acting role as Gemma in House Husbands. In 2013 she scored the gig hosting Australia’s Got Talent alongside judges Dawn French, Geri Halliwell, Timomatic and Kyle Sandilands, before later going on to film four seasons of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!, which broadcasts

16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

white dress and these really funky white trainers and I was in live five nights a week from Kruger National Park in South Africa. The most recent season wrapped up in March this year, two minds, maybe being a wedding, maybe it is a heels type scenario. allowing Morris to squeeze in her birthday and some precious “Anyway I decided to go with these diamante-studded time with her family before hitting the road with the Lift and trainers, every woman in the room was swirling around me Separate tour. in an absolute tsunami of both admiration and chartreuse Morris said turning 50 also came with the impetus to with envy. They’re like ‘How did you get away with it?’ I’m like, do what feels right for her - on and off the stage - and a ‘Mate; you just wear them’. determination to make every moment count. ‘(It’s about) making everything worth it. I even do it with “I’ve never had another job either; this has been my only my food now, if it’s an average slice of cake I’m like, you job. So I would hope this many years in, that I’m going to be know what, I’m not taking on calories for that. I feel a little at least ok… hopefully, I’ll be heaps funnier than just ok,” she bit Masterchef-ey in that way, I’m like no, that’s not up to laughs. standard, I’m not going to put the calories on for that, I’m not “A lot of it is my life observations, and observations of myself and most of the time I’m saying stuff that no-one would going to bother. “I think that it’s also like taking a bite out of life, I’m going dare say about themselves, it’s the stuff that we keep private so that no-one judges you. And I’m just wearing it like a badge to make every bite count. “I’m not always successful at it. I have these great, they’re to the power of hilarity. If I’m going to be that tragic, I might as practically inspirational quotes that could go on blackboards well make some money off it. outside of cafes they’re so deep, but in actual fact, no-one “What completely drives me outside of work is family and trying to have friends over for meals. I don’t really get to go out nails it every day. No-one nails it even all day in one day. You just try your best, then put your head on the pillow at the very much, mainly because I can’t be bothered. And I know end of the day and hope you didn’t hurt anyone’s feelings. if my friends come over and we have a big barbecue I can “That’s oversimplifying it but that’s kind of where it’s at, probably get away with a tracksuit and trainers, so most of my and I’m going to teach some of those skills of how to get to passion drives towards getting people to my home so we can that place in the (stand-up) show.” ■ laugh in our mufti clothes. “I rock a luxe tracksuit, and I’m made for a trainer… these days I’m only in heels on the stage, I would not wear heels to Tickets to Julia Morris’ Lift and Separate Golden dinner. Jubilee Tour at Newcastle Civic Theatre on Sunday, “In fact, for a lot of functions I’m even trying to work how May 20 are on sale now. Contact the Ticketek the outfit works with super funky trainers, and I’m having a lot Box Office on 4929 1977 for tickets or for more of joy with it. information visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au “It’s a more modern take on the sensible shoe. But gosh, I went to a wedding a couple of weeks ago in this exquisite

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www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

DONATING A COAT is Good for the Soul! The team at itravel (The Junction and Warners Bay) have nominated Soul Café to be the recipient of their May Winter Coat Appeal. For the second year running, members of the community can donate warm coats, which will be passed on for distribution to Soul Café guests, many of whom are extremely vulnerable and sleeping rough on the streets, or are dealing with issues of homelessness, drug or alcohol addiction, poverty, separation, mental health or illness concerns and accommodation needs. Soul Café was established in August 2003 to serve hot meals, free of charge, to the highly disadvantaged of the Newcastle region. Today, Soul Café serves up hundreds of free sit-down and takeaway meals each week, providing a haven of hope and help to many. The meals provided are an avenue to link cafe guests with other necessary services including group-based alcohol and substance abuse programs, accommodation links, Centrelink referral, mental health counselling, refuge referral, haircuts, legal services and access to free doctors, podiatry and audiology clinics. The ultimate mission of Soul Café is to see vulnerable cafe guests reconnected with the community and placed on a path towards increased safety, health and purpose. Winter can be harsh, and the comfort of a warm coat or jacket can make a huge difference for not only the physical state but the mental state of a person experiencing homelessness. You can help make a significant difference in the life of those less fortunate by donating your pre-loved jackets to itravel the Junction or itravel Warners Bay during May. If you’re keen to help out even more then the annual fundraising event, Sleepout for Soul takes place on Friday, 15 June. For more information or to register, visit www.soulcafe.org.au

PRAWN, CRAB AND EVERYTHING IN BETWEEN WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Fresh is best when it comes to seafood according to Robert Gauta, and he should certainly know – he spent 15 years as a fisherman and is now general manager of the Newcastle Commercial Fishermen's Co-operative. Every day he oversees the delivery and sale of countless tonnes of seafood caught by the co-op’s 110 members, who fish commercially from Tuggerah in the south to Seal Rocks in the north across a 200km stretch of coastline that includes estuaries, lakes and the open sea. From prawns and mud crabs to salmon and bream – plus hundreds of species in between – the co-op has been the number one supplier of quality seafood to Newcastle and the Hunter since 1945. And the secret to their success by and large is the freshness of their offering, with many products able to make the journey from the seas to your serving dish in a matter of hours, especially if you choose seafood varieties when they are in season. Right now that includes the ever-popular king prawns, which have been flowing into the co-op’s six receiving depots and four retail outlets since the end of March. Arriving just in time for another bumper Easter trading period, the king prawns will stay in season until around mid-May and Robert said the quality and quantity had so far been good. “King prawns are absolutely in season, we’re getting both small and medium prawns locally caught overnight, and they’re as fresh as they’re ever going to be,” he said.

“Easter is our second busiest time behind Christmas and all the stars lined up for us this year, we had fresh prawns including king prawns coming in every day, which is a huge boost for us and meant sales were up, which is pleasing. “On a good week we’d get 1 to 1.5 tonnes of king prawns every day, and in this part of the world, we’re spoilt because with the overnight catches they’ve got no preservatives on them. “You can’t beat that fresh as a daisy overnight (catch), some of them might have been caught a matter of hours ago. They’re great for sandwiches or in salads, throw them in your curries or cook them up in your stir-fry, you can eat them any way you like, that’s the beauty of them, although if you ask me I think the best way is just to peel it and eat it – the less you do with it the better.” Also in season at the moment is some sensational sea mullet, although if you want to put it on your plate fresh, you’d better be quick according to Robert. “The sea mullet is running up the coast and out at sea spawning right now but it’s a short season, it only lasts a couple of weeks,” he said. “They've been catching them off Stockton for a few weeks now, and they’ll be catching them in Shoal Bay and Port Stephens soon before they start moving further north. “Some people like mullet when it’s caught in the river but others swear by the sea mullet that’s been swimming in the salt water for a few days. It’s a much-maligned fish, but a fresh mullet is as good a fish flesh as any, it’s flaky like bream, and when they’re fresh, they’re beautiful, especially on the barbecue.” The Newcastle Commercial Fishermen’s Co-operative was established in 1945 to provide services to the local commercial fishers, with a focus on fresh, local and sustainable seafood. While a number of factors including the volume vary considerably year on year, Robert said the annual catch by the co-op’s members was valued at around $13 million to $14 million. “Our focus on fresh, local and sustainable seafood sets us apart from our competitors, and when you buy from us you are supporting local fishermen and their families,” he said. “As most fishers reside in the area the income stays in the district and profits generated by the co-op are distributed annually to shareholders based on the value of product consigned. “We are proud of our reputation in the community for being the supplier of the freshest seafood money can buy. Not only do we have the freshest seafood, but our fishermen also use sustainable methods of harvest, keeping our valuable seafood sources secure for the future.”

For all your Australian, sustainably caught, fresh local seafood needs, you wouldn't go anywhere else, other than the Fishermen’s Co-Op!

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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 18 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

MUST DO

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Hunter Valley WINE COUNTRY

Just 4 Mins F 0 r Newca om stle

Australia’s oldest wine region offers more than just premium fine wines, gourmet delights and a beautiful vineyard setting. In Hunter Valley Wine Country, there is so much to explore and experience. Tour the famous Hunter Valley Gardens (and Shopping Village), hand feed animals at the zoo, unwind with a round of golf, and indulge in cheese or chocolate tasting. Relax and be pampered in a spa or seek out the galleries and local artisans products. For the adventurous, cycle or go horse riding at sunset, take to the air in a hot air balloon, skydive or enjoy the thrill of a hot lap in a rally car.

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Wine & Dine Gourmet Food Tastings Craft Beer and Distillery Tours & Classes Shopping & Galleries Markets Entertainment & Events Drive-in Cinema Aqua & Putt Putt Golf Electric Bike Hire Scenic & Acrobatic Flights Helicopter Flights Go Karting Golf, Driving Range & Lessons Horse & Pony Riding Hot Air Ballooning Segways Skydiving Hunter Valley Zoo Heritage, Culture & Nature Beauty & Wellbeing Hunter Valley Gardens

Hunter Valley Wine Country is surrounded by untouched natural landscape and beautiful scenery where you can go bushwalking, four-wheel driving, or mountain biking. Explore our rich heritage by visiting convict relics and remnants of our coal mining past. Visit the Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre on Wine Country Drive at Pokolbin to book your accommodation and plan your personalised Hunter Valley Experience!

455 Wine Country Drive, Pokolbin | PH 4993 6700 | vic@cessnock.nsw.gov.au Open Monday to Saturday 9am to 5pm; Sunday & Public Holidays 9am to 4pm /HunterValleyVisitorInformationCentre

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HUNTER VALLEY VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE

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Kirkton Park

The ultimate tasting experience at Hungerford Hill

A Festival to Delight all the Senses New additions this year include Viva Verdelho at Tulloch Wines, Magnum Madness at Hart & Hunter Cellar Door and Cheeses of the World at Two Fat Blokes, while festival favourites such as the Hunter Valley Wine Festival, Tyrrell’s On any given weekend, it’s a tough ask to even scratch the Winemaker’s Luncheon and the Meet the Farmer Dinner at surface on all the fabulous wining and dining experiences on offer in the Hunter Valley vineyards. But during May and June, Margan are sure to be as popular as always. Jo said the diversity of the activities on offer – and the there will be even more reasons for tourists to stay a little chance to take part in the more intimate atmosphere of longer, with over 40 special events being held as part of the smaller events – were key to the festival’s success. Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival. “Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival provides you with Local winemakers and restaurateurs will throw open the chance to wine and dine with leading Hunter Valley their doors to showcase everything the region is known winemakers and chefs, take part in an array of fun and for, including premium wines, fine food and locally-sourced interactive classes to fine-tune your culinary skills or, if you’re produce. after a relaxing experience, simply curl up beside an open Helping to bring it all together and promote it to potential fire with a glass of premium Hunter Valley wine and a cheese visitors across the Hunter and beyond is the Hunter Valley plate,” she said. Wine & Tourism Association. “One of the things about the Hunter Valley Wine and Food While food and wine festivals have been held in the Hunter for more than a decade, Tourism Association General Manager Festival is that you can have an intimate experience. While there are some major events; there are also smaller more General Manager Jo Thomas said the need to expand the intimate ones that you can be part of, and those tend to sell concept beyond its traditional month-long celebration was out quickly as well, they’re really popular. identified a few years ago. “Wine and food festivals in the Hunter Valley have been running over May and June for over 12 years,” she said. “Over time it has evolved to become Hunter Valley Wine “There a real opportunity to meet the people and Food Festival, which has been running as a two-month long festival since 2016. behind the wines and the food. You’re “The Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association, along with getting to meet with the winemakers and industry, recognised the need to expand the events over May chefs and people behind the scenes, so I and June, showcasing the region’s diverse wine and food culture with two months of themed activities. think that’s where those events really do “It is such an incredible time to be in the Hunter Valley, with appeal to a lot of people. perfect temperatures of warm sunny days and cool nights around the fire experiencing local food and wine.” The 2018 festival boasts its biggest line-up to date, with “It’s that paddock to plate kind of experience, learning the addition of 15 new events to an already packed program about where the produce comes from, where the wines come of epicurean experiences. from, with the experts. The diverse calendar includes everything from delicious “There’s a real trend for understanding what you’re putting gourmet dinners at award-winning restaurants to wine and cocktail master classes, as well as food and wine trails, hands- into your body and where it comes from, especially with that 25-35 year age group, the Millennials, even Gen Y, they’re all on cooking classes and long lunches. WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Burning of the Barrel, Glandore Estate

looking for that explanation of where the produce is coming from. “And when they’re here in the Hunter Valley they want to eat local, drink local, that’s really important, so these events under this Hunter Valley Wine and Food umbrella really showcase what we do here and our local produce. “In terms of our agricultural area here in the Hunter Valley it’s one of the largest in the country, we grow a lot of our own produce on our back doorstep in the greater Hunter Region, not necessarily just Wine Country, and our chefs and our winemakers source what they need locally, we’re really lucky in that respect.” The festival events attract more than 35,000 people to the region during the two months, with a mix of locals and visitors from further afield. Jo said it was impossible to understate the importance of events such as the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival to the Hunter’s visitor economy. “Local events drive visitation to our region and have a huge impact on the local economy,” she said. “In fact, the Hunter Valley wine sector contributes $502 million to the local economy and supports 2800 jobs. “We market the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival, along with our other events during the year, to local and international audiences to help build awareness of the Hunter Valley as a key destination and to encourage visitation. “Outside of our local area, Sydney’s our biggest market, and then also regional NSW and Brisbane. “Now that we’ve got the new airport link between Adelaide and Newcastle we’re actually just peppering the South Australian audience as well and really targeting those food and wine lovers. It’s opened up a whole new world for us. “The Hunter Valley is the most visited wine region in Australia by wine enthusiasts. It is also the oldest grape growing region in Australia, with the first plantings here dated back in 1828. “Events give people a reason to come, and then it gives them a reason to come back if they’ve had a great experience.” To find out more about this year’s Hunter Valley Wine & Food Festival visit www.winecountry.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

Local WINES That will Define 2018

Champagne and sparkling wines? It seems we love different styles of fizz and especially that from other parts of the world with Champagne sales achieving double-digit growth since 2016. Australian sparkling wines are also extremely popular, and the Hunter Valley has some top drops to compare with the best.

ORGANIC, NATURAL AND SUSTAINABLE? The interest surrounding wines produced biodynamically or organically is heading toward unprecedented heights as consumers increasingly turn to wines that reflect their raising consciousnesses, drinking more sustainable, organic, and biodynamic wines from winemakers who have embraced these values in their winemaking philosophies. Expect to see retailers having separate shelves reserved for WORDS QUENTIN VON ESSEN these wines, restaurant and bar wine lists devoting a section to organic and biodynamic wines and others balancing their offerings with traditional wines. From Dry Rosé to Orange Wines and Young Reds, this month Here in the Hunter, leading producers include Tamburlaine intouch magazine rounds up the wine styles that will define this Organic Wines, Krinklewood Biodynamic Wines, Ascella Organic year. Wines and Macquariedale Organic Wines. Much like fashion, food and music, wine styles can define an era. In the 1980’s and 1990’s, we were drinking big, buttery ORANGE WINES and oaky Chardonnay and lighter Cabernets. In the 2000’s The wine industry is known for its reds and its whites – but tastes turned towards lighter wines such as Pinot Grigio and what about its oranges? Obviously, we’re not referring to the the crisp cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc. citrus fruit or even the fertile wine region in the central west of We wanted Chardonnay to be lighter, more subtle and of course with a little less oak. We wanted reds that were big and NSW. We’re talking about orange wine - an increasingly popular bold, and we (reluctantly) started to accept the move away from style that is making its way into cellar doors and onto wine lists cork closures to screw-caps. So, what are we drinking now that around the world. Of course, there is no such thing as an orange grape. is so different from 10 years ago? Instead, the name refers to the distinctive hue of the product, which can vary greatly from a soft pinkish apricot to a golden IT’S ALL SPARK, FIZZLE AND POP! honey colour. Who doesn’t love a bit of fizzle – especially high-quality

22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

VERMOUTH One of the most exciting wine trends in 2018 is the growing number of producers making Vermouth - an aromatised, fortified wine flavoured with various herbs, roots, bark, flowers and other botanicals and now also one of the hippest - and most soughtafter mixers behind the bar. Vermouth gives winemakers enormous creative freedom,and us the consumer, a whole new range of flavours, to experiment with and enjoy. YOUNG LIGHTER REDS Long gone are the days when you needed to cellar red wine for years before it was ready to be drunk. Now we want our reds mediumbodied, full of freshness and fruit - wines made from grapes such as Gamay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and lighter interpretations of the traditionally fuller bodied varieties like Shiraz. Pinot Noir is one of the fastest growing varieties in the red wine category in Australia. The wine itself is made using white wine grapes, however, instead of following the standard process where the grapes skins are discarded once the juice has been extracted, winemakers leave the two together for an extended period. As is the case when making red wine, the extended contact – also known as maceration - allows the juice to take on some of the colour pigments and tannins contained in the skins, seeds and stems of the fruit. While orange wines have been popping up across Australia for the past few years, the practice itself is an ancient one, dating back hundreds of years in European regions such as Slovenia, and possibly even thousands of years in the Eurasian region of Georgia. In the Hunter Valley, orange wines have been on the radar of certain winemakers for quite some time. Tamburlaine Organic Wines Senior Winemaker Aaron Mercer told intouch magazine that a skin-contact Pinot Gris was on the horizon at the Pokolbin winery, while he said Brokenwood Wines had also been working on an orange varietal using Semillon grapes. While it’s unlikely orange wine will ever replace white or red as a mainstay of any wine producer, it’s clear the amber-coloured drop will be on the menu for a few more years to come.

VARIETAL REVIVAL The landscape of Australian wines has changed significantly over the past decade with wine lovers eagerly searching for something new, and increasingly drinking wines made from alternative grape varietals, in particular, the Italian and Spanish varieties that tend to suit Australia’s warmer climate regions. While the varieties of Negroamaro, Barbera, Montepulciano, Fiano, Nero d’Avola, Nebbiolo and even Grenache are hardly unknown varieties in Australia, the term “alternative variety” encapsulates those varieties that stand outside the mainstream and are not widely planted. This rise of ‘alternative’ varieties in Australia is becoming an increasingly important topic for the country’s winemakers which has been largely driven by an increased awareness that the ‘traditional’ varieties planted in Australia – Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz and Chardonnay, don’t always suit the sites or regions they currently occupy. A growing number of Hunter Valley Wineries have adopted some alternative varieties that include Grenache, Tempranillo, Sangiovese, Durif, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Tannat, Petit Verdot and Chambourcin amongst the reds and Vermentino, Savignin, Fiano, Pinot Gris/ Grigio and Viognier amongst the whites – and with fantastic results. Over the next few DRY ROSÉ years, you can expect many of these wines to The world has fallen hopelessly in love with become increasingly known and popular with Rosé, with imports from France booming wine drinkers and close the gap on some of as well as local sales of this quintessential the mainstream varieties. summer wine. Today, there is a new surge These newbies add another dimension in the popularity, and the number of Rosés to our wine drinking enjoyment, giving the on the market continues to grow, seemingly unabated. In fact, the demand for traditional consumer a touch of the exotic, new tastes dry Rosé is so widespread that across France, and also provoking debate. Enjoy wine, enjoy friends and most importantly enjoy yourself Rosé outsells white wine and outside of (and drink responsibly!) ■ France, rosé is experiencing a rebirth.

VIVA VERDELHO

There’s no better time to take in the delights of Australia’s premium wine-growing region than the 2018 Hunter Valley Wine and Food Festival. Tulloch will be participating this year with our popular Viva Verdelho tasting. In the Hunter Valley, the Verdelho variety produces wines that are lively, tropical and vibrant which is perfectly suited to the Australian way of life. As the pioneering family of Verdelho, we produce five different styles of this crowd pleasing variety from the fun celebratory low alcohol ‘Verscato’ to the luscious fortified Creme de Vin and various styles in-between. Take the journey with Tulloch as we show you our five styles and the versatility of Verdelho matched with five food accompaniments. Daily in May and June by appointment, $18pp | Tulloch Wines, corner of McDonalds & DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin | Ph (02) 4998 7580 E cellardoor@tullochwines.com | www.tullochwines.com

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 19 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

www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 23

19+20

May!

MAGNUM MADNESS

Join Hart & Hunter for the annual Magnum Madness over the weekends of the 5th & 6th and 26th & 27th of May as we celebrate everything Magnum. We love big bottles!!! Each year we produce a selection of magnums from those wines destined for greatness and longevity and at Magnum Madness you get the opportunity to taste these wines, paired with some great local produce. Magnums not only look impressive but scream celebration! They are a great way to share that special bottle with a group of friends, as one bottle is often never enough, and ultimately, they are just really fun to drink from! Each of these wines are made in limited quantities, and the Hart & Hunter Magnum range come with an engraved label and a gorgeously packaged gift box and will be available for purchase throughout the weekend. We are also thrilled to have The Cellar Restaurant on board again this year, creating five canapés to match the five wines on pour. Tastings are offered between our opening hours of 10am and 4pm, with last reservations taken at 3pm. Sat 5th & Sun 6th May + Sat 26th & Sun 27th May 10am - 4pm, $30pp, bookings essential Hart & Hunter Cellar Door 463 Deasys Rd Pokolbin | Ph (02) 4998 7645 E cellardoor@hartandhunter.com.au | www.hartandhunter.com.au

HANDS ON GNOCCHI COOKING CLASS AND LUNCH

Hermitage Lodge’s award-winning restaurant ‘Il Cacciatore’ specialises in Northern Italian inspired cuisine. Il Cacciatore has long been a favourite with visitors and locals alike with its relaxed and casual ambience and professional, friendly service. You will be lead through a step by step hands on gnocchi making class, followed by demonstrations of two different gnocchi dishes and a two course lunch. May 5, May 19, June 9 and June 23 at 11am, $125pp Il Cacciatore Restaurant, 609 McDonalds Road, Pokolbin | Ph (02) 4998 7639 www.hermitagelodge.com.au/ilcacciatore

RIDGEVIEW CHEF’S PLATE

Ridgeview Restaurant’s executive Chef Donna Hollis and her team use fresh award winning (Sydney Royal Easter show 2018) homegrown and local produce to create seasonal Mediterranean-style menus. For $39 per person indulge in a main and a dessert paired with a glass of their estate-made wine all while drinking in the stunning vineyard views.

Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday in May and June. From 12pm to 5.30pm | RidgeView, 273 Sweetwater Road, Pokolbin | Ph (02) 6574 7332 www.ridgeview.com.au

24 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Long-Lunching at

lovely sparkling Gewürztraminer at Allandale that smells of rose petals. If you love a bit of sparkle, Sandalyn is the place to go with their Traditional Methode Cuvee and Sparkling Fuchsia presented in a beautiful array of glitter bottles. Tatler has given the classic Hunter Semillon a "Carmen Miranda" look and a light sparkle that will pop your lid. At Gartelmann, Janette has put her name to a slightly sweeter style of Moscato with just a little bit of fizz. If a classically The Lovedale Long Lunch is celebrating 25 aged Methode Traditionelle is what you love, years on the 19th & 20th May with seven Saltire has you covered. Lastly, Wandin has of Lovedale’s best boutique cellar doors a surprise new sparkling which is currently and vineyards paired up to celebrated local under wraps! restaurants and great live entertainment. Now, did someone say lunch! Once The iconic progressive-style lunch is like again, the chefs have outdone themselves. no other – celebrating the food and wine Light or hearty, there is something for treasures of the Hunter Valley. everyone, and vegetarians and vegans are Saturday is the big day, lots of fun and also catered for. The fabulous restaurants enjoyment with many loyal long lunchers – joining “Long Lunch” for 2018 are Tatler groups of family and friends, big and small. Tapas, Wandin Café, The Deck Café at The weekend sees everything from themed attire to elegant day wear - such as the girls Gartelmann, Amanda’s on the Edge at who come every year in a different coloured Emma’s Cottage, The Cellar at Allandale. We will welcome back Emerson’s at Saltire, tutu, or the boys in striped business shirts and for the first time, Hunter’s Quarter at and moleskins. And then there are the Sandalyn. Check out the website for food ladies who would not be out of place at the polo. No matter what you wear, or your style, and wine matches for each venue to get your taste buds going! we want you to look your best. Different beats for different feet. From For those of you that like your days smooth jazz vibes, classic rock, eighties to tasting wine and food a bit more chilled noughties, contemporary pop rock, oldand laid back, the LLL Sunday Session is school rock and soul, funk and blues – get the way to go. Grab your ticket, spend a your best dance floor moves in gear! Groove, relaxing day visiting your favourite Lovedale rock or just chill, to the great music from Long Lunch destinations, take advantage bands which have become venue favourites of the tasting tents, sample the extensive for the Lovedale Long Lunch. range of wonderful wines and sit back For the sake of your fellow long-lunchers, and enjoy a drink with your friends. You’ll experience casual al fresco dining with food please remember to check entry conditions, from the best and enjoy the laid-back music, bring your ID and ticket, leave your alcohol at home and arrive at your last venue before reminiscent of days past of the Lovedale Long Lunch. Fewer people, great wine, great 3pm as there will be an event-wide lock-out. food and great music make Sunday Session As always – there will be no exceptions and no tolerance for disorderly or aggressive the best day for Novocastrians and locals. behaviour. Let’s toast a great milestone of 25 Save the date – it’s the third weekend years of Lovedale Long Lunches with a of May! Then gather your friends and book glass of bubbles. Come along to the 2018 your tickets and transport. Help celebrate Lovedale Long Lunch to sample the great 25 years of great wine and food at the choice of sparkling wines available. Try the iconic Lovedale Long Lunch. For more info sassy and slightly sweet sparkling red at please visit www.lovedalelonglunch.com.au Emma’s Cottage - it’s like no other - or the

LOVEDALE!

ELBOURNE WINES - 2014 Single Vineyard Shiraz // RRP $55 A 2014 single vineyard, hand picked Hunter Valley Shiraz. 96 Points James Halliday wine companion, with only 200 cases produced. TASTING Generous spice, pepper and ripe fruit nose. Exceptionally well balanced wine rolling beautifully across the palate from front to back. Quality french oak frames high quality red and black fruits. FOOD MATCH A perfect accompaniment to venison, medium-rare with caramelised fig. CELLARING Up to 20 years. WYNWOOD ESTATE - Old Jack Muscat // RRP $40 An average of 8 year old, barrel aged Rutherglen Muscat. TASTING Caramel, toffee and maple syrup characters. FOOD MATCH Perfect with a square of dark chocolate; soak dried fruits and add them to a pudding or ice cream; or bite the corners off a Tim Tam and use it as a straw. CELLARING It doesn’t matter because you won’t be able to resist opening it!

KEVIN SOBELS - 2013 Petit Verdot // RRP $25 Kevin Sobels Wines is a family owned business producing 100% Hunter Valley wines with a 170 year tradition of making wine in Australia. Petit Verdot – meaning "little green one" in French, is a late ripening grape, which thrives in regions with long days and lots of sun and ideal for the warmer conditions of the Hunter Valley. TASTING This is a wonderfully deep coloured and bold wine, with a full-bodied structure and soft tannins in the middle palate. FOOD MATCH Grilled steak, spicy pork, veal, lamb and all types of game. CELLARING This wine will age beautifully. Cellar for up to 10 years or more.

TOP Drops...

LOCAL GEMS

EMMAS COTTAGE VINEYARD - 2015 Shiraz // RRP $30 TASTING This classic Hunter Valley Shiraz is aged in old American oak, has a light fresh medium body and is very fruit driven, with dark berry flavours and light peppery notes with a lovely savoury tannin finish. This wine recently won a bronze medal at the 2017 NSW Small Winemakers Show. FOOD MATCH Slow cooked lamb shoulder or aged beef. The wine is light enough to drink on its own without food, and if you do not manage to finish the bottle save it to put into tomorrow’s casserole – it does the most wonderful things to big tasty casseroles! CELLARING Drink now or cellar for 10 years or more.

MISTLETOE WINERY - 2016 “Rosso” // RRP $25 “Rosso” is Italian for Red. This wine is a blend of Hunter Valley grown Tempranillo and a very small percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon. TASTING It is medium bodied, much like a Pinot Noir. The bouquet is vibrant and spicy with dark cherry, tobacco leaf characters. It has lovely balance, and a clean palate showing dark cherry fruit, and smooth tannins from the use of older French oak puncheons and a long soft finish. FOOD MATCH This is an eminently quaffable red wine and teams beautifully with Mediterranean cuisine, especially pasta, pizza and paella! CELLARING Drink now to 2025.

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NOW TASTINéG2018 Ros

Hunter

wine Cracking ing ack from a cr a t vin ge!

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 29th 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 PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com.au | W www.mistletoewines.com.au

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Your Space for Autumn

the arrangement of them too. You can mix new with the existing pieces, canvases with framed prints. Mix frame types and sizes. Change the frames, especially if they’ve been the same for ten plus years. Your artworks will be revitalised, and you may actually look at them in a new light. We see a lot of pieces WORDS LARA O’DONNELL - Tailored HQ where the artwork’s frame draws the focus due to the matting being coloured and the frame being very detailed or coloured. In some cases, a simple change to a white With the cooler months approaching, it is a matting and a black frame draws the focus great time to switch the colour palettes in back to the piece itself, allows it to be your interiors and prepare for the months repositioned in the space, bringing a fresh when you want to feel cosy with an injection eye to the loved piece. What was once old of new colour. Not every item needs to be and ignored is new again! changed; just select pieces can be updated With cooler months we often think of to freshen a space for the coming season. Don’t be afraid of colour – no matter the warming up with blankets throws. Why not Rug Up too? Rugs on the ground are a great season. Colour doesn’t have to mean bright insulator, so a great practical piece as the pops. We love the use of navy and hunter greens. These deep colours can be lightened temperature drops. Keep in mind the size of a rug (bigger is always better!) and what or darkened by what is around it. Using you could do with this large canvas. If using autumnal colours such as browns, ambers colour within the furniture or walls is too and bronzes in accessories subdues these bold for you, why not consider the rug as an rich colours while bringing a classic and artwork for the floor? The horizontal plane timeless feel perfect for cosying up in. means it is distorted and the level of it is We’re seeing a braver use of colour not in your face. You can bring in these deep in larger pieces such as curtains and hues that can be brought out in a beautiful bedheads. These are a great way to inject rug, either ready-made or a custom piece. colour. Consider charcoal grass weave Don’t underestimate the effectiveness wallpaper, deep navy curtains behind a dark of changing simple elements. In Spring, we green leather lounge and bronze accent think of beautiful florals and blooms. In pieces, for example. This combination is nothing overly bold, just layers the space with Autumn and Winter, the leaves coming down and bare branches come to mind. Gather complementary colours that aren’t all part of the neutral spectrum. As long as you think some of these branches, put them in a vase, and be amazed at your own creativeness about the combination of the colours and when you see the effect they create. You can pieces as a whole within the space, you can mix these in with sprigs of greenery or red afford to bring these colours into the home. berry branches (there are some amazing If you have the main furniture pieces fake ones available) to bring an element of in your home, consider updating or adding colour in too. It’s a great way to get height on to your art collection. Art is an important a console display or bring a natural element aspect of any space and changing it is a to a table arrangement. And the best bit? No great way to update seasonally. Not only petals or pollen to clean up! can the pieces themselves be changed, but www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 27

K. D. E.

I. A. M.

B. H.

N. P. Q.

S. T.

BATHROOM

From Wildflower Furniture, Warners Bay A. Bondi Vanity W 900mm x H 500mm x D 500mm, $1540 B. Airlie Vanity W 1800mm x H 500mm x D 600mm (3 drawers), $2990. From Tailored HQ, Newcastle C. Coral Acropora Bush Medium, $179 D. Leiluca Handmade Vase, $129 E. Inkoko Marble Candle Vessel Large, $80 (Candle refill $35) F. Marble Tumbler, $29 G. Jewellery Box Black Ash, $275 H. Small Wooden Table Planter, $29 I. Menu Toilet Brush, $179.95 J. Menu Wiper in Concrete, $159.95 K. Flameless Wax Candles 3.1"x4" $39.95, 4"x6" $59.95, 4"x8" $69.95 L. Pin Stripe White/ Black Bone Box, $55. From Highgrove Bathrooms M. Eden Single Towel Rail 800mm, $90 N. Eden Nero Matte Black Handshower on Sliding Rail, $169 O. Eden Soap Dish, $48 P. Eden In Wall Mixer, $119 Q. Spin Tall Basin Mixer, $142 R. Eden Nero Matte Black Basin Mixer, $169 S. Eden Nero Matte Black In Wall Basin Mixer with Spout 190mm, $229 T. Eden Bench Mount Basin, $169 U. Cielo Square Bench Mount Basin Matte Black, $279 V. Eden Timber Wall Mount Vanity Cabinet without Top 1200mm, $629 W. Spin Freestanding Bath Spout, $229 X. Lucini Freestanding Bath 1700mm, $1199.

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Lifehack Your Small Bathroom for a Bigger Feel

ECLECTIC FUSION...

WORDS WESLEY SINCLAIR - For Highgrove Bathrooms When renovating a small bathroom, trying to make everything fit in the available space can be like playing Tetris. However, there are some simple tips and tricks to help declutter and create the illusion of extra space in a compact bathroom. Hang It Up - If you have a small vanity, opting for wall mounted taps will allow for a narrower sink, giving you a wider walkway so you can stand comfortably while brushing your teeth. Designed to be extremely compact, wall hung basins can fit in the smallest areas to ultimately free up floor space. Mirrors are a Must - The right mirror can almost magically broaden the size of a room, regardless if no other alterations have been made - so don’t be afraid to expand the size of your mirror. Whether it’s from wall to wall, floor to ceiling, or a statement mirror, installing mirrored cabinets are a fantastic way to increase storage while reflecting light and creating that sought-after perception of greater scope. Ditch the Cistern - Floor pan toilets with concealed in-wall cisterns have become very popular due to their practicality and sleek look. With the cistern hidden behind a wall structure, you’ll be able to save a few extra centimetres for more legroom. To create an expansive bathroom feel, opt for a wall hung toilet - they take up zero floor space and are also easier to clean. Clear and Frameless - Skip the door and opt for a frameless glass panel shower screen. With no visual barriers, your bathroom will feel

much more spacious with a new age look as well. If you’re running low on wall space for a towel rack, think about mounting a towel bar on the shower screen - you’ll save room and your towel will always be close by, post-shower. Go Big or Go Home - By incorporating large tiles and patterns into a small bathroom, it tricks the eye into seeing extensive latitude. With less grouting and lines to break up the visual, your bathroom will appear broader with a higher ceiling. Keep It Simple and Neutral - Avoid bold colours and keep the colour palette of your bathroom fairly white and neutral. Light coloured floor and walls always make a room seem larger than it actually is. If you’re looking to add some colour, pastel tones are a great option, or you could opt for a bold splash of colour with your choice in the bathroom accessories, such as towels, bath mat, soap dispenser or toothbrush holder. Smart Lighting, Spacious Living - Lighting can sometimes be an overlooked component when designing a bathroom, however, when it’s done right, the right choice in illumination can create a much bigger feel to cluttered space. Try flush mounted ceiling lights for the perception of greater space or add lighting around the vanity to brighten up that area - a lighted mirror or tape lighting on cabinets and vanity tops will do the trick.

The “NEW YOU” Style Gone are the days of choosing a particular interior style and matching your furniture, fabrics and accessories to it. Now the goal is to make your home happy and interesting and layered up with your beautiful things – the items that you have collected along your lifejourney. “Your personal style is who you are and what you love,“ says Catherine Martin, Director of Newcastle Curtains and Blinds. Catherine also says that we shouldn’t be afraid to break the rules, “think texture, colour and pattern and don’t hold back,” she adds. The new contemporary style is eclectic you! Use a piece of furniture as a focal point, give it a makeover with some chalk paint or leave as an original and use this as your statement piece in a room. Your colour choices may be a New Hampton’s blue or green colour palette, a splash of midnight blue from the roaring 20’s, a beautiful deep sea green for a statement coastal feel or create a feature wall with a sophisticated neutral.

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Walk the streets and get online armed with your colour inspiration to find a range of the perfect cushions. I suggest that you chose only one at a time. Let your style evolve, and remember to be patient - the look is all about individualism, and this can’t be bought in a single day. Next - add a textured rug to make a statement. Once you have collected the basics to start the “New You” style you need to think about layering. Look for colour pops, statement pieces (expensive, or op-shops pickups) Get creative, think timber, metals (Dulux have a great range of metallic colours) texture and colour. Mix things up, move things around, love what you love and throw out what you don’t. Look for inspiration from nature - the garden, the beach, bushwalking, flowers, fabrics, memories, music, hats or old books. Create a new art wall inspired by old photos, memories or just beautiful things. Don’t be too serious and have some fun with it. When it comes to renewing your window furnishings to tie the whole look together, the designers at Newcastle Curtains and Blinds are experienced with working with "your style" to create a beautiful living space in your home. Check out their website at www.newcastlecurtainsandblinds.com.au

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Book an appointment today 4959 5901 • FREE In-Home Measure & Quote www.newcastlecurtainsandblinds.com.au • info@newcastlecurtainsandblinds.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 29

FROM HOBBY TO OBSESSION...

Good Grief Ceramics WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

If you take a look at the stories behind the stallholders at the Olive Tree Market, you’ll find their creative journeys are as diverse as the handcrafted products they produce. This month we spoke to Jen Lanz from Good Grief Ceramics to find out what inspires her creative process. How long have you been making ceramics and what inspired you to take up this art form? In 2014 I joined an open studio in Mayfield called Clay and Glaze while my son attended kindy. Having all my parental bases covered I spent my Tuesday afternoons at Clay and Glaze until it closed only six months after I started. With the benefit of hindsight, I can see that the studio’s closure played a big role in growing my clay hobby into an obsession because I’m stubborn as hell, which is only intensified by adversity. The organisers of the Mayfield studio encouraged me to buy a wheel, and I converted the spare room in my house into a studio. I continued to build up studio equipment with what little I had left over working locally as a barista. I’d wake up before my son and get to work in my little home studio, or I’d stay up late after he’d gone to bed; any spare moments to work on new ideas to see how far or how big I could manage throwing clay. Late last year it became clear that my home studio could no longer keep up with the volume of work I needed to produce after gaining a bunch of stockists. I was also wearing thin as a single mum working a day job and starting this micro business. I dug my heels in that tiny bit more and by January 2017 with all sorts of encouragement and help from family and friends I secured a private studio and dedicated myself to my craft by making it my full-time job. What do you like most about the process of creating one of your products? There’s a multitude of tiny jobs and movements involved in each step of my day in the studio

making it extremely active and focused, which fills me with a very concrete sense of accomplishment. With dedicated daily routines in the studio, I’m not only working on my strong artistic vision in situ but I’m also working towards the art I will be creating in the future, which acknowledges how much the daily process of my materials in itself gives so much back to me and on to my wider community. What inspires you in coming up with new creations? The idea of sustainability is something that permeates my work as I expand my range. The first line of work I created were planters, which was a conscious attempt to not only make something beautiful and functional but something that would replace inefficient plastic pots. My newest design again seeks to use my skills to provide consumers with a plastic-free choice for their daily coffee run by instead using a ceramic cup with an eco-friendly silicone lid. Making practical objects that undermine our culture’s obsession with disposable culture is my main motivation for my current designs. The raw material for the art I make comes mainly from my son and our relationship. The themes of faces across both lines in my work came from a simple yet poignant conversation I had with my son about emotions. Being his guide to his own autonomy while balancing my desire to protect him is the same narrative that is carried out with each vessel I create. Manipulating simple clay to sturdy finished pottery and knowing that the clay and my son for that matter, essentially hold all of their own power and destiny is a great satisfaction to be third party to. You can check out all of Jen’s work at this month’s Olive Tree Market, which will be held at Newcastle Civic Park on Saturday, May 5 from 9am to 3pm. An additional market will be held in the grounds of the Maitland Regional Art Gallery on Saturday, May 12 from 9am to 2pm. For more information visit www.olivetreemarket.com.au

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262 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay NSW 2282 • PH 4953 7390 • www.wildflowerfurniture.com.au 30 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Wallpaper... WOW Has it Changed! WORDS DEBORAH BARTLETT - insideout Newcastle

FROM ONE PIECE TO A WHOLE HOUSE OUR INHOUSE DESIGNERS WILL HELP YOU FIND YOUR STYLE! visit our showroom today!

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Natural texture from grasscloth wallpaper can give large hallways or large rooms a feeling of depth and warmth. Grasscloth If it’s one thing that 2018 is becoming lookalikes are also available if you don’t known for in design, it’s all the interesting like the noticeable join with this option. changes that are coming through with the Natural shades look great in living areas, use of images and wallpaper. And if you and beautiful metallic threads and amazing have a windowless or dark room that lacks colours can also be found in the grasscloth character, a small apartment in a forest of papers today. These also add luxury to a concrete, or simply a room without a view bedroom; then wallpaper may be just what you are • In a lacklustre bedroom with no personality. looking for. You need to finish the look and bring the If your new build seems to be ‘missing whole room together. Ask our team to help something’, then perhaps wallpaper can transform your space; we also do bed-heads give it the warmth or soul that’s missing. and bedding packages, so you don’t need to Industrial furniture or French provincial run around. Getting all this right is the key to needs to look like they belong to the rest of ensuring wallpaper works in a bedroom; the room and wallpaper can help to anchor • You have an older home with uneven wall all these pieces and create a home for them. Furniture will really come to life in the surfaces. Wallpaper is a great solution for this problem. Paintable textured wallpaper right setting, and you can create the setting that replicates pressed metal can also be yourself with wallpaper. used on a ceiling, not just the walls; Wallpaper can add an outdoor garden, • You have a Period home. Wallpaper was a view of a jetty or ocean where there isn’t intrinsic to the décor of these homes, and even a window. Technology is producing fully papered rooms have always worked in some beautiful hi-res images to allow you federation homes or older period homes to create ambience in an instant. Use it when chosen correctly. Many options are instead of a large art canvas. Think outside available to suit particular eras or style and the box. wallpaper will only enhance and build on the One major trend in wallpaper this personality of the home; year is using coordinating paper to do the • You want something special for your whole room. This was popular in the 70’s kitchen splashback - wallpaper can be and 80’s, and it’s making a return. A room used in kitchen areas behind glass as a can be subtle or dramatic, depending on splashback; how you choose to mix the designs and • You want to create an exciting, playful fully wallpapered rooms can look stunning space for a child. This is where you can in both old or new buildings. If you love a really have some fun. Create a fantasy feel of luxury, think glitter, glass or velvet. world for your little one or create a haven for Surprisingly, all of these can be found on your adolescent. Remember that there is a paper! psychology of colour before you commit. When to incorporate wallpaper into The process of hanging and removing has your room: also changed – its now easier to install • If looking out the windows of your home than ever before and at insideout, we have fails to deliver a beautiful view or a feeling a solution for every space. Drop in and see of space; what wallpaper can do for your space or • When you feel that your new build doesn’t visit www.insideoutstyle.com.au (select the give you an industrial edge for furniture you “no ordinary walls” box for some fantastic love. Try a concrete wall, a brick feature or inspiration). an old warehouse image; parry street, newcastle west, nsw 2302 • A new build with192 all the shiny surfaces t 02 4962 5577 f 02 4962 5588 w www.insideoutstyle.com.au lacks the feeling of warmth or character. facebook.com/insideoutstore

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Front row: Ron and Donna MacIntyre (Owners and Approved Providers), Danae (Fleet Manager) and James MacIntyre (Maintenance Manager). Back Row: Jessica Taylor (Quality Improvement Advisor), Anna MacIntyre (Educator) and Tania Brown (Operations Manager). Image Credit: Larissa Cluff (intouch Magazine)

Family Business Profile

FAMILY SUPPORTING FAMILIES TILLYS PLAY & DEVELOPMENT CENTRES WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

As a service that provides care and education for children, it’s little wonder that family is at the heart of Tillys Play and Development Centres. Founded by Donna and Ron MacIntyre in 1994, the family owned and operated business has become an institution in the Hunter’s childcare industry. Growing from a single service at Largs, Tillys now incorporates eight long day care and OOSH services across Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, with more than 200 educators and staff providing care and education to 738 children per day. But despite their growing size and undeniable success, family remains at the core of everything they do. Firstly, there is the sheer number of family who have been directly involved in the business. Aside from Donna and Ron, this includes three of their four children - Jessica, Anna and James – as well as everyone from a daughter-in-law, a mother-in-law and a sister-in-law, to nieces, nephews and even Donna’s own mother, who used to work part-time as a cleaner at the Largs centre. Then there are the long-term staff members who Donna says feel like members of their extended family group, as well as the intangible “home-like” atmosphere created at the centres to ensure all of the children feel comfortable in their care. 32 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Donna said these elements are the key to delivering a successful and, more importantly, high-quality service. “We started Tillys in 1994 with the passion and drive to bring only the best quality care and education to the children who walk through the doors every day,” she said. “Our spaces are their spaces. Somewhere they belong, are loved, considered as capable and resourceful and where we instil a life-long love of learning. “All of our services are managed by the family or very longterm employees who are considered family, all of whom have spent many years on the floor as educators themselves and have varying teaching and childcare qualifications.

“We are not a management team of accountants. We are a family of early education and care professionals. We stay true to our values, and we do what we do because we love it.” More than two decades after they began their childcare journey Donna and Ron still remain actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business. An Early Childhood trained educator herself, Donna is

involved in the employment of all staff and educators at Tillys and has input into the design and implementation of Tillys’ educational programs. She also designs all centre policies and procedure, and trains all staff in Child Protection and workplace health and safety. As a builder and carpenter by trade, Ron is hands-on when each new centre is being built, from the first plans that are drawn up to the final finished centre. While Tillys will celebrate 24 years of continuous operation this year, there’s plenty more in store for the business, which in the past few years has built a new centre at Bolwarra and opened their largest and most recent service in Rutherford. Since 2010, they have also operated a registered training organisation – Tillys College of Childcare – offering Certificate and Diploma courses to help fill what Donna saw was a shortage of trained staff in the childcare sector. Donna said Tillys was constantly growing and changing, whether through plans for a new centre, or research into the latest changes in early education practice. “We have just opened our eighth centre at Rutherford. It is our biggest centre to date, is approved for 174 childcare places per day and offers care for children aged 0-6 years, alongside Out of School Hours Care (OOSH) and Vacation Care for school-aged children 5-12 years,” she said. “Our Rutherford centre is our third Tillys centre to incorporate OOSH care into our long day care facilities. We are also looking into the possibility of offering 24-hour care to families within this centre. “We are also in the process of building our ninth centre at Cardiff, which will open in early 2019. “We have extremely high expectations of our Nominated Supervisors, Educational Leaders and Educators, who rise to the challenge, and as a team, we are consistently looking for ways we can improve and further meet the needs of our children and their families. “Tillys is driven by ongoing professional development in the field of early education and by up-to-date research and training, focused on the formation of the developing brain. “Our approach reflects our national curriculum – The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia (0-6yrs) and My Time Our Place (6-12yrs), and is based on the combination of guided and spontaneous play experiences and the inclusion of shorter, structured learning sessions such as Gymbaroo.” The inclusion of Gymbaroo at the beginning of 2017 has been one of the biggest changes incorporated across all of their centres in the past few years, with the sensory-motor program proving a real hit with the kids. Its implementation once again comes back to the business’ focus on family and the needs of the children. “Gymbaroo was established 34 years ago by an Australian pioneer, Margaret Sassé. Margaret was passionate about the physical and neurological development of children and the relationship between these and later learning at school,” Donna said. “The motor system is a key element in the growth of both the body and the brain. To enable children to learn well, they need lots of opportunities to repeat new motor experiences. Experience helps the brain send proper signals to the muscles and vice-versa. “We’ve also introduced a Supported Playgroup within three of our centres. This is another free service that we have started to support our children, families and the local community. “Our supported playgroups are led by one of our experienced Early Childhood Educators and is a great way for children to learn about the word, make friends and develop social skills and a fantastic support group for mums and dads.”

Travel

Silverback. Photo by Tony Camacho

ONE FOR THE BUCKET LIST There is nothing like a really exciting holiday experience. Be it an adventurous journey or a special encounter you have always dreamed of, the memories will stay with you forever. In my younger years, top of the list was to see the Mountain Gorillas in the wild in Africa. With my newlywed husband in tow we head off to the jungle for the most exciting honeymoon ever! Now, as a mother myself, I can totally relate to the look of horror on my mother’s face as she bid us farewell at the airport. Pre social media and email (showing my age) we departed for six weeks travelling to remote Africa to fulfill this dream of mine. Days of difficult road travel, dodgy border crossings, rough camping and trekking for hours through thick jungle, was all worth it to see those amazing creatures in their natural habitat, interacting and playing with each other, a tad curious about our presence. The joy of that experience has never left me and I feel very privileged to have done this. This was pre digital photography also, so if I ever DO start to forget - I have literally HUNDREDS of printed photos to remind me of this extra special journey! Whether your dream is to climb a mountain, visit a wonder of the world, or a critter encounter be sure to make it a reality and gift yourself a lifetime of wonderful memories.

itravel The Junction PH 4962 1116 194 Union Street sales@itravelthejunction.com.au

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Mountain Gorilla Trekking WORDS MEGAN O'SULLIVAN - iTravel The Junction & Warners Bay There’s absolutely nothing in the world that can compare to the feeling of being within an arm’s length of a massive silverback and his family. Named for the distinctive silver streak that covers their broad backs, these impressive males are the undisputed leaders of individual family groups – known as troops - which comprise of up to 30 females, infants and a handful of younger males. Found only in the densely forested slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, which lie on the border of Rwanda, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, mountain gorillas, are these three countries’ star attractions and their biggest tourism drawcards. Thanks to some long-running successful conservation programs and the ever-growing number of visitors who come to see these primates every year, they are the only great apes whose populations have increased in recent decades. Of course, gorilla permits are relatively expensive, with strict limits on how many are issued each day. Furthermore, there’s no guarantee you’ll see any, but your reward – if you do locate a troop – is a truly profound and intense wildlife experience that totally outweighs the effort and expense. Plus, most of your tourist dollars go directly to safeguarding the future of these magnificent creatures. In any case, finding these gentle giants is a real thrill, with visitors required to rise very early and trek along muddy tracks through thick vegetation teeming with exotic birds and wildlife in search of a troop. Once one is found, you may spend up to one-hour watching and taking photographs. African Wildlife Safaris has arranged hundreds of mountain gorilla treks over the years, and highly recommend trekking from Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans (Volcanoes National Park) or Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Both these countries are home to excellent lodges and

RUG UP!

Australia Set To Experience Freezing Winter Climate scientists are reporting the effects of global warming after freakishly warm weather is being recorded around the North Pole, sending a blast of cold Arctic air over Europe.

camps located close to park entrances, where treks depart. Their vibrant capital cities can also be easily reached by air, and are conveniently situated a relatively short drive from the Virunga Volcanoes. From Rwanda, the 4-day/3-night gorilla trekking program starts from $4,858 per person twin-share (ex Kigali.) This includes one gorilla permit, accommodation, all transfers and a Flying Doctor Service membership. You can also combine this experience with trekking for chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest National Park to the south for another truly memorable adventure! From Uganda, the 4-day/3-night gorilla trekking program starts from $4,174 per person twin-share ex Entebbe. This includes two gorilla permits, accommodation and all transfers. Consider combining a trek with a few nights at a safari camp in Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and hippo-rich Kazinga Channel. For more information on travel to Rwanda and Uganda, or to have an itinerary tailor-made for you, contact itravel The Junction on 4962 1116 or itravel Warners Bay on 4947 1116 today!

Cape Morris Jesup, found on the Northern tip of Greenland has recorded over 61 hours of temperatures above freezing, making the North Pole warmer than Europe, a change which has been linked to a rare retreat of sea ice in the Arctic winter darkness. Temperatures around the region are now about 20 degrees above normal, which has left scientists wondering if human-made global warming will see weather conditions like this more frequently. Most of Europe has shivered through an extremely cold winter, with many places experiencing snow in areas where there hasn’t been snow in years. Australians are already being warned to prepare for an icy winter, with the wind-chill expected to make conditions feel worse. So rug up – and maybe book that ski holiday now! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

The CRC is one of 80 similar centres across NSW providing a permanent free drop-off service for common household waste items that can't be collected via normal kerbside waste and recycling collections. Newcastle City Council has partnered with the NSW Environment Protection Authority to operate the CRC at Summerhill Waste Management Centre, which is open free of charge to everyone in the community - not just Newcastle residents. Items accepted include: •Paint and paint-related products •Motor oils and cooking oils •Gas bottles •Fire extinguishers •Car and household batteries •Smoke detectors •Fluorescent light globes and tubes •X-ray slides Up to 20 litres or 20kg of each item can be dropped off at a time. Items are sent for processing, with recoverable elements extracted for recycling. Paints are mixed with other waste solvents and used as an alternative to fuel in cement kilns. Lead-acid batteries contain lead, acid and plastic that can all be recovered and recycled, while fluorescent tubes and globes contain mercury and glass that can also be reused. Residual gas from old gas cylinders and bottles is recovered, and the steel containers are sent for recycling. Used oils, meanwhile, are processed to become lubricants. The new CRC is just one of a number of recycling projects across Newcastle dealing with aptly named problem wastes. Newcastle City Council operates community recycling

NEW RECYCLING PROGRAM Welcome News for Residents Recycling is a hot topic across Australia right now, with public interest piqued by the ABC's War on Waste television series. A 2017 survey of 200 homes across Newcastle found that we're sending less waste to landfill than previous years and are recycling about 4kg of material per household every week. But more can be done, and the opening last month of the Newcastle Community Recycling Centre has made it even easier to find a second life for household items.

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stations at key sites across the city, where people can drop off fluorescent globes, household batteries, ink cartridges, mobile phones and accessories, reading glasses and X-ray slides, year-round. These can be found at Council's King St customer enquiry centre, Newcastle Museum, Newcastle Region Library, Wallsend Library and Summerhill Waste Management Centre. Mini community recycling stations for household batteries, reading glasses and x-ray slides are at Beresfield, Stockton and New Lambton libraries. The Newcastle Community Recycling Centre is supported by a $115,000 grant from the NSW Government's Waste Less, Recycle More initiative - the largest waste and recycling funding program in Australia. A study of 1200 NSW residents done as part of the program found that more than eight in 10 people recycle household items, even if it takes more effort than simply throwing them in the bin. And 85 percent are concerned about environmental problems. It will come as welcome news, then, that recycling of organic waste in Newcastle is also set to expand under plans for a new organics recycling plant to be built and operating at Summerhill by 2020-21. The $12.8 million facility will be able to recycle 50,000 tonnes of organic waste annually, turning it into soil conditioner, compost and mulch to be used by the local community. It will start to accept food waste after three or four years of operation, further reducing the amount of material sent to landfill. Summerhill's Community Recycling Centre is open weekdays 7.30am - 4.45pm and weekends and public holidays 9am - 2.45pm, except Christmas Day and Good Friday.

COMMUNITY Calendar WED, MAY 2 Australian Plants Society Monthly Meeting ‘Bringing more Isopogons and Petrophiles into cultivation’ - 7pm, downstairs at the Hunter Wetlands Centre. All Welcome. FRI, MAY 4 Glorious Knit & Crochet Fair Plenty of beautiful handmade things to see, plus morning and afternoon tea. Islington Baptist Church, Maitland Rd, 10am - 4pm, 4+5 May. Lawn Markets on the Green Every first Friday of the month. Live music, stalls and food trucks, Adamstown Bowling Club, 6pm - 9pm. SAT, MAY 5 Olive Tree Market 9am - 3pm, Civic Park. Free Comic Book Day 2018 Free Comics, the Hulkbuster, and more! 10am - 2pm, at Heroes and More, Nelson St Wallsend. Dark Stories True Crime Tours Retrace the steps of Newcastle's dark and violent history! Tours run each Saturday evening. Visit www.darkstories.com.au Farmers & Artisan Market at Toronto 9am 2pm, Toronto Foreshore. Women’s Wellness Workshop An evening of inspiring guest speakers at Lissome, Carrington. www.eventbrite.com.au KO Classic Charity Surf Competition At Dixon Park Beach, from 7am. St Johns Anglican Church Newcastle Parish Fair Enjoy stalls with homemade cakes, jams, vegetables and books, plus kids entertainment. Parry Street, Cooks Hill, 9.30am - 1pm. SUN, MAY 16 Heart & Soul Indoor Markets Cardiff RSL, 10am - 2pm. Gold coin donation entry. SAT, MAY 12 Car Boot Sale Join Tighes Hill Primary School for a car boot sale, plus a bbq, drinks and cake stall, 11am - 3pm. Mother’s Day Pop up Shop Jade McIntosh Flowers at Carrington Bowling Club, 12+13 May.

Cracked Exhibition Opening The Creator Incubator's 1st anniversary. 3pm - 7pm, Clyde St Hamilton North. Homemade: The Porter Story through Clothing and Textiles History in the heart of Newcastle! 10am - 3pm, Miss Porters House, 434 King St. 12-20 May. www.missportershousenewcastlenta. wordpress.com SUN, MAY 13 Market2Markets Speers Point Park, 9am 2pm. FRI, MAY 18 Back To Wickham Markets Market stalls and food vans at the Croatian Wickham Sports Club, 6pm - 9pm. SAT, MAY 19 Trivia Night at Charlestown Bowling Club 6pm, $10pp,raffle tickets $1 each, with other gold coin games on the night. Supporting surGICure at John Hunter Hospital. Tables of 10, book now - phone 4947 1520. SUN, MAY 20 Hunter Memory Walk & Jog Register to walk, run or jog supporting Dementia support services. 7am, Speers Point Park. www.memorywalk.com.au TUES, MAY 22 Supercharge Your Gut Meet nutritionist and best-selling author Lee Holmes her national book tour. Free talk at Charlestown Multipurpose Centre, 7pm. WED, MAY 23 Speed Dating for 50+ A great way to get out and meet new people! 7pm - 9pm, The Blind Monk, Beaumont St. Tickets $46, visit www.singleseventsnewcastle.com SUN, MAY 27 Run with Garmin The Garmin Man is stopping for a 5km fun run in Newcastle! Register at bit.ly/garminwaiver

LIST YOUR NEXT LOCAL EVENT - Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au/family-community and complete the submission form. Inclusion is at the discretion of the publisher.

MEREWETHER LEGAL CHAMBERS Margo McAlary LLB

Never forget to put your bins out again! With our free My Local Services app you can view waste collection dates on your smartphone and set up weekly notifications on which bins to put out. The app’s ‘report it’ tool also lets you quickly alert us to an issue, such as an illegal dumping, a road pothole or a council facility in need of repair. Just take a photo, press send and we’ll know exactly where to go from the GPS coordinates recorded by your phone or tablet! Download the app free from the App Store or get it on Google Play today.

BINS BEEN MISSED? • Did you get it right on bin night? See our checklist to the right. • We may have encountered delays beyond our control. Please allow up to 4.30pm for your bins to be serviced. • Do you live in a busy or narrow street? Access can be difficult and we will return later. • Check our Twitter and Facebook pages for service notifications. If your bins have still not been emptied by 4.30pm, call 4974 2000 or complete our online form.

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Donate

A Life!

What happens after I’ve donated? Once you’ve completed all your donations; your non-identifying information will be added to our Donor Database for recipients to select WORDS LISA PUXTY - Genea Newcastle from. In NSW the maximum number of women to which a donor may contribute is 5. Sperm Donation. It’s not a topic that comes up in conversation very often yet the number Therefore if you already have your own family or are planning on one in the future, we will of people requiring donor sperm is on the restrict the number of women who can use rise. There is currently a severe shortage of your sperm to 4. donor sperm in Australia with many people Where can I donate? Newcastle Sperm not realising that they could potentially give Donors is part of Genea Newcastle, a the greatest gift of all…life! privately owned and fully accredited IVF clinic Understandably, many questions are specialising in the diagnosis and treatment surrounding donating your sperm. Here of infertility including IVF treatment. Located are answers to the most commonly asked in Merewether, Newcastle our clinic has questions. been helping people achieve their dreams Who needs donor sperm? There are of having a baby for over 30 years. With many situations where a sperm donor is the demand for donor sperm on the rise, needed; in heterosexual couples where Newcastle Sperm Donors was established there is male infertility or a genetic disorder, in 2014 and has had the privilege of helping women in same-sex relationships and single 31 babies be born through donor conception women choosing to start a family. with more on the way! Why do people donate? Choosing How do I donate? It’s easy to become to donate your sperm is a very personal a sperm donor; there are just a few simple decision and can be influenced by many steps: different things. Some men simply want to The best way to start the process is to help others; they may have had a personal contact us via our website at experience with fertility issues, know www.newcastlespermdonors.com.au and fill someone who struggled to have a baby or in the form on the homepage. If you meet know firsthand the joy a child can bring to the eligibility criteria, we will contact you to someone’s life, and they want to help others to have this experience. Whatever the reason, arrange appointments at our clinic with our: • Doctor - medical and family history donating your sperm truly is giving the gift will be taken along with blood & urine of life. samples for infectious diseases and Who can donate? There is a number of genetic testing criteria that men need to meet in order to • Laboratory – initial semen analysis and donate, the main ones being: sample ‘test freeze’ of your sperm • 21 – 45 years old • Counsellor – there are many topics • Healthy, non-smoker around sperm donation that you may not • Be comfortable to be identified by a have thought of. Our counsellor will help donor-conceived child once they turn 18 make you aware of everything to consider years old before donating. • Good sperm count (we test this for you) You will have access to all test results for your Will I get paid for donating? The short own records. Once you’re confirmed as a answer is no. It is illegal in Australia to pay suitable donor, we will require approximately a donor for their donation of sperm however six donations from you and another blood we understand being a donor requires your test 4 months after your initial donation. time and effort. We are able to reimburse For more information visit you for reasonable expenses to cover things www.newcastlespermdonors.com.au such as travel expenses. 36 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

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EMOTIONS AT WORK WORDS ANNE WARD – Mindinsight

In the April issue, we discussed the link between emotional intelligence and personal effectiveness. This article explores how being aware of emotions can help us at work, helping to enhance our resilience and enjoyment of work. Work means different things to different people. For some it provides a vehicle for following an interest or passion, for others it’s about helping people or making a difference, and for others, it’s a vehicle for providing the financial means to pursue other goals. In each case, there is an emotional connection between work and something that is important

to us, making us feel positive about going to work. Positive emotions include pleasure, happiness, pride, enthusiasm, and optimism. Work also places demands on us, including changing work conditions, conflicting expectations, lack of control, challenging relationships and lack of resources. As a result, our experience at work can sometimes feel like a tug-of-war where we experience mixed, or even conflicting emotions. Negative workplace emotions can include frustration, worry, disappointment, annoyance, anger, unhappiness, embarrassment and fear. Emotions are often felt in the body. Examples are an elevation in breathing and heart rate (fear), increases in limb activity (anger), decreases in limb activity (sadness), constriction in the throat (disgust). These body sensations provide clues that can help us identify and label emotions. Negative emotions generate a sense of discomfort, an internal experience that something is wrong. How we respond to this is very important. Even though our immediate reaction might be to try to suppress the negative feelings, doing so is more likely to cause an eruption in our internal dialogue of worry and unhelpful thoughts. Trying to control negative emotions in this way amplifies the problem rather than making it go away. By relating to negative emotions as an ally rather than an enemy, we can use them to gain a better understanding of what is really going on. This emotions-friendly approach is a little like going to the dentist, where we tolerate some discomfort because we know it will lead to a beneficial outcome. Being open to emotions in this way helps to train our brain to be less reactive and more reflective. This frees up resources to examine the situation from different perspectives, to consider what is important to us, and possible responses.

It can also provide assurance that we are ok or remind ourselves of what we enjoy about work. The reality of the modern workplace is one of constant change, different personalities and competing priorities. Our understanding of emotions at work can better equip us to deal with uncertainty and complexity. Being able to experience positive and negative emotions helps to make use of the information that emotions contain, to balance our perspective rather than jump to conclusions about what is happening around us. This broadens our sense of ourselves and others and helps us to access our deeper, intuitive self in navigating our work landscape. Notwithstanding, if you experience prolonged distress from events taking place at work, it is a signal to pay closer attention. Chronic stress has associated mental health risks, including anxiety and depression. Signs can include sleep disruption, fatigue, lethargy, anxiety or sadness. It is wise to consult your GP who may suggest seeing a mental health professional. Anne Ward is an executive coach and principal psychologist of Mindinsight, providing coaching and psychology services to individuals and organisations. Visit www.mindinsight.com.au or phone Mindinsight on 4942 7660 for more information.

Anne Ward is an executive coach and principal psychologist of Mindinsight, providing evidence-based coaching and psychology services to individuals and organisations. Mindinsight is located at 45 Hunter Street Newcastle. Visit www.mindinsight.com.au for more information, phone 4942 7660, or email info@mindinsight.com.au.

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LIVE YOUR LIST

Tammy Guest loved her adult-gap month in Bali.

The setting for Tammy’s fiveday women’s retreat.

Tammy Guest’s Cultural Immersion

day, she found there was a flow and quickly felt part of it. When she decided to work, it was in a more relaxed way, like by the pool or in her first co-working space. “It was amazing to have WIFI and work while on my bucket-list holiday, either WORDS KIM-CHERIE DAVIDSON solo or with company in the in co-working - Live Your Bucket List space, which had the same camaraderie as a backpackers hostel. The best part was Freedom and sheer joy is the way a local creating this work environment and knowing entrepreneur describes her time in Bali. that work can look like this.” In April 2015, the Wallsend resident Tammy found the digital nomadic lifestyle had planned to tick off her bucket list a she craved but in another format. The sense structured four-week immersion business of freedom she wanted was still there and course. However, like all good adventures; it amplified due to the lack of structure. did not unfold that way. “It was extraordinary; I was able to After months of planning – for three kids, recapture the same freedom of my teenage husband and thriving business to survive while she was away – Tammy Guest received gap years. It appeared in serendipitous a phone call, five days before her departure, moments when joy was found in unexpected encounters with nature and people.” to say it was cancelled. One such occasion was on her scooter “I was devastated; my dream was gone. However, with my husband’s encouragement, on a dirt road through a rainforest arch with monkeys on either side chattering away in I organised to stay at a villa on Ubud outskirts and do my own version. It ended up the light rain. “I was in flow – in the right place, time being like an adult-gap month,” Tammy said. Her first discovery was burnout; she was and space – aligned with the road, rain and air. The memory is still vivid, and I use totally fatigued and started her recovery through being fully absorbed in the Balinese it, sometimes, in meditation and the flow returns.” culture, a women’s retreat and co-working “The month in Bali exceeded all my space. expectations and sits high on my bucket list “For me, it was easier to wake up early in ticks.” a tropical country. It feels good, and I didn’t Her other ticks include climbing Mount want to waste a moment. From my villa, I Kinabalu (4095m) in Sabah, Malaysia; loved watching the day dawn over the rice holding a sea turtle hatchling in Borneo; paddies and the smell of incense wafting in walking out of London’s Waterloo Station to from the gateway offerings,” she said. see Big Ben; living in London for two years; Everyday life – the temperature, smells, snow on Christmas Day while staying in a sounds and sights, especially the food and culture – felt good to her. She loved the food, 600-year-old mill in Scotland; and watching especially the vegan and plant-based dishes the sunrise over Angkor Wat, Cambodia. Next, is Kumano Kodo trek, Japan and ate them daily. with her husband for their 10th wedding “The women’s retreat was not something anniversary – by the time this article is in I would do at home. It was incredible – I reconnected with a part of my femininity that print, it will be done! had been forgotten due to my busy-ness. When I was away, there were more “yes” Kim-Cherie Davidson is an adventure coach moments – I felt braver.” and speaker, helping women to live their adventure dreams so they can feel empowered, One of the moments was deciding to hire grow from their experiences and be role models for a scooter for $30 a week then learning to their families, friends and other women. ride it within two days. The first day in traffic Visit www.facebook.com/liveyourbucketlistau or email kim-cheriedavidson@bigpond.com for more Tammy found scary; however, by the second information.

STRENGTH TRAINING WORDS KYLIE MILLS - Membership Consultant, Planet Fitness Lambton

How many times have women been deterred from lifting weights or strength training because of the misconception that they will end up “bulky” or “massive”? There are actually many benefits to women having a strength training routine as part of their exercise schedule. Increasing and maintaining adequate muscle mass is a fantastic way to keep body fat at bay and resistance training is the best way to build muscle mass. So we need to look at the benefits of this style of training and try to break the cardiovascular exercise only stigma that a lot of women have. Weight training is more than just a three times a week Body Pump class, so let’s look at some of the top reasons that women should be walking past the treadmill and hitting the weights floor. It Makes You Stronger - This has just so many benefits in everyday life whether it be looking after children, household routine or carrying the shopping. And your risk of injury is decreased. Better Calorie Burn - The amount of muscle we have in our bodies directly determines our resting metabolic rate. This is the number of calories we burn just keeping our body functioning at rest, your heart rate, breathing and temperature. As your lean muscle increases so does your resting metabolism so you will burn more calories throughout your day, which can result in a loss of body fat. Stronger Mentally - Speaking from personal experience, lifting weights can give me a feeling of empowerment, and improve my mood. Strength can be a confidence booster. Stronger Bones And Decreased Risk Of Osteoporosis - Lifting weights not only trains your muscles, but it also trains your bones. There have been various studies that show weight training can improve

bone density which in turn can have a direct impact on reducing injury as we age and also reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis. Assist In Preventing Joint Pain - Get those squats down low, and your knees will thank you in the end. Strong muscles are better at holding your joints in their correct position. It’s Good For The Heart - Weight training is also beneficial for your cardiovascular health. It can assist in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol in conjunction with your traditional cardio training. And as our heart is a muscle, it makes sense to keep it strong and healthy. Gaining Strength Without The Bulk Women do not have the levels of hormones that cause muscle hypertrophy (increase in size). Weight training in women will create definition in the muscle and give the body tone rather than a dramatic increase in muscle size. Group Training Is Also Becoming More Popular With Weight Training - Weight training doesn’t have to all be in the gym. A few pieces of equipment and a patch of lawn or outdoor area can be adequate and also a great way to get a weight session done with a group of people. This type of boot camp or outdoor weight training can provide women with a sense of comradery and also give them a confidence boost in working as a team. These are just a few benefits that women can achieve from incorporating a strength routine into their training regimen. It can be a social outlet also, and a big confidence booster, and who doesn’t want a defined figure for the summer months. So girls, do not be deterred by the stigma that weight training makes women bulky, get amongst it on the weights floor. Burn more calories and have a-rockin' rig at the same time - you may even find that you enjoy the experience! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE To Look After Your Skin! If you have entered your middle age years, it’s good to be reminded of the sage advice to “grow old gracefully” – but that doesn’t mean we need to neglect to look after our skin. With the change of season (in age and weather) and impending cooler months, it’s important to think about good skin care. As we mature our body’s biggest organ undergoes several alterations that can significantly change its texture, structure, volume and appearance. It’s all to do with sebaceous glands (responsible for producing oil) that start to slow down and get smaller after reaching our mid-40's. Encouragingly, there are many options available to support good skin maintenance and reduce the signs of ageing. Among the simplest and most effective are undertaking a regular skin care routine and, for those wanting more immediate results, considering non-surgical cosmetic procedures. During Autumn and Winter, our skin needs to be moisturised more often due to being exposed to colder temperatures, stronger winds, and constant air-conditioned heating in the home, office and vehicle. These factors can severely reduce the skin’s natural oils and leave it feeling dry and stressed. Introducing a regular personal skincare routine, making sure to

use products with high-quality ingredients, can make a noticeable difference. A basic home routine would include cleansing, exfoliating, increased moisturising and rejuvenating which collectively can go a long way to alleviate and manage problem areas. Although there’s less sunshine, it’s also a good idea to keep protecting your skin against harmful UV rays that are prevalent all year round. Similar to warmer months, choosing a safe sunscreen and wearing protective hats and clothing will also help to keep your skin protected. The demand to correct the most notable and unwanted facial changes through non-surgical cosmetic options continues to grow with the most popular procedures being injectables, which include dermal fillers and muscle relaxants, and laser treatments. A recent study by CHOICE, Australia’s leading consumer advocacy group, reports there is “no one treatment that deals with all skin issues and works for all people” which is why cosmetic doctors and technicians may suggest having more than one treatment. Typically muscle relaxers, such as Botox and Dysport, target wrinkles or fine lines on the forehead and around the eyes. Dermal fillers are designed to enhance fuller lips and pad out hollow cheeks and eyes. Rather than just smoothing or tightening skin, they can change the facial profile to a more youthful one. Most laser treatments are used to promote facial rejuvenation and can produce quicker results with less downtime. Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) uses bursts of intense light energy to heat the epidermis and dermis, stimulating collagen production and improving skin tone and texture as well as discolouration. CHOICE concluded its review by advising consumers to do what reputable industry professionals have always supported. When contemplating any non-surgical procedure make sure you undertake some thorough research, know exactly what’s involved, and choose wisely based on experience, qualifications and expertise.

BEAUTY ONLINE Young Living Releases New Natural Makeup Collection If you’re ready to get savvy about your beauty routine, you can’t go past Young Living’s new natural makeup line, Savvy Minerals by Young Living. This natural mineral-based makeup collection combines premium formulas with pure ingredients to embrace your natural beauty without sacrificing your skincare standards. With a variety of shades and colours, you can find the perfect products to help build your dream makeup collection. Products are free from harsh ingredients that are usually found in leading makeup brands such as talc, bismuth, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, nanoparticles, synthetic fragrance, synthetic colourants, cheap synthetic fillers, harsh dyes and gluten. Product details, along with a few tips and tricks on the perfect contour, can be found at www.youngliving.com.au

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Pharmacy Matters

AGE IS AN ATTITUDE... Not a Number! WORDS ANTHONY PIGGOTT - Piggott’s Pharmacy

Old Age is always ten years older than you are today and while this may be a quaint adage, it highlights that we generally only think of other people as being ‘old’. Officially there are ages when we are deemed to be a ‘senior’ or an older Australian. For example, Seniors Cards are provided to people aged 60 and not working more than a set number of hours per week in paid employment. From a health and medical point of view you are generally considered ‘senior’ after the age of 65. Australians are also living longer, and the country has an ageing population. People aged 70 and over currently account

for about 10 percent of the population, and by 2050 this is expected to increase to 20 percent. Each year The Every Generation Festival runs for the month of October and aims to bring together the community to celebrate longer lives. Events are held for Australians of all ages to celebrate the valuable contribution made by older Australians to the community. It is a time for older people to share their achievements with people of other generations. The festival sends the message that people improve with age and that their contributions to society are valuable, welcomed and essential. ►

Psychology for Growth

Piggott's Pharmacy have the most engaging and happy Pharmacists, who value each and every customer. You will feel better after visiting us in… OUR LOCATIONS

BLACKBUTT

HAMILTON

PH: 02 4957 2474 58 Orchardtown Road New Lambton, 2305

PH: 02 4961 3179 83 Beaumont Street Hamilton, 2303

HAMILTON SOUTH

LAMBTON

BRANXTON

PH: 02 4969 1978 400 Glebe Road Hamilton South, 2303

PH: 02 4957 3630 117 Elder Street New Lambton, 2305

PH: 02 4938 1156 56 Maitland Street Branxton, 2335

www.piggottspharmacy.com.au 42 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Building a mindset for wellbeing and performance

Evidence-based psychology for personal leadership and business effectiveness: Education & awareness · Resilience assessment and coaching · Executive coaching · Wellbeing programs · Tailored for individuals, teams, organisations · Measurable skills development

Suite 2GA, 45 Hunter St, Newcastle (02)49 427 660 www.mindinsight.com.au info@mindinsight.com.au

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DATE SIGNATURE NAME A colour laser print can be viewed in-store to show a more accurate colour TANT ilst all care has been taken in the preparation of the particulars herein no responsibility for errors of any nature will be accepted by Snap Printing after this copy has been checked and signed. Authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s corrections ons not originally specified will be charged at the minimum artwork rate. Any alterations to this material after approval shall be deemed as authorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changes and the cost will be the responsibility of the customer.

around Australia providing the Pharmaceutical Society of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Self Care health information. Your local pharmacy is your health destination and can provide a range of products, medicines, services and advice to support you as you age. These include: â&#x20AC;˘ Mobility aids â&#x20AC;˘ Prescription medicine â&#x20AC;˘ Medicine management services (e.g. Dose Administration Aids and other Medication Management Initiatives such as Home Medicines Review, MedsCheck and Diabetes MedCheck) â&#x20AC;˘ Compression garments â&#x20AC;˘ Health and medicines advice â&#x20AC;˘ Blood pressure monitoring â&#x20AC;˘ Services to help you lose weight and quit smoking â&#x20AC;˘ Services to allow you to maintain your independence such as home delivery Visit your local pharmacy today and find out what they have available. If you want to stay in control and be better informed about ageing, phone the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia on 1300 369 772 or Ask Piggotts! â&#x2013; 1. Accuracy of Copy, Names, Tel Noâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s etc 2. Photograph and illustration placement

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AMEND & REPROOF

Living longer is a great thing, but we also need to remain healthy to enjoy our longer lives to their fullest. Unfortunately, debilitating conditions such as heart and kidney disease, diabetes, and some types of arthritis are more common in older people. Lifestyle changes can minimise the risk of these problems occurring, but medicines are often the best way to manage the symptoms of these conditions. In fact, the oldest 10 percent of the population use more than 20 percent of all prescribed medicines. The good news is that as the population ages worldwide, we are also getting healthier. A US study has shown that on average, elderly people are growing healthier, happier and more independent. Another report in New Scientist magazine has found that diseases usually associated with old age are affecting fewer people and, when they do strike, it is much later in life. Regardless of our age or physical condition, we benefit when we take control of our health. This includes making informed decisions based on the advice of doctors, pharmacists, nurses and other healthcare professionals. Questions to ask health professionals are listed on the Wise Use of Medicines Fact Card, available from pharmacies

Becoming Brave, by Katie Dean

OK TO PRINT

Empowering Women Becoming Brave is the highly anticipated first book by Newcastle writer and entrepreneur Katie Dean. In this motivating, powerful and incredibly relatable book, Katie Dean provides the practical tools to nudge you out of your comfort zone, befriend your fear and let go of the feelings that were never yours to carry. The book puts you back in the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seat of your life and encourages a life lived on your terms, filled with confidence, the occasional cuss word and the ability to turn things around when the chips are down. Becoming Brave is an honest snapshot into a world where itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible to thrive with anxiety. A book that encourages the courageousness to be both brave and vulnerable and celebrates sensitivity as a superpower. Katie Dean is the founder of YOUR WILD LIFE and not your typical motivational coach or a typical anything. Sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s written Becoming Brave for other women like her: sassy women pursuing a path to creativity, spirituality and a life-loved even when that path is wildly messy. Becoming Brave is available from Amazon, Booktopia and Book Depository, RRP $24.99.

Kick Ass, with Mel Robbins (Audiobook) Want more out of life? You're not alone. And best-selling author Mel Robbins is here to help with no-bull life and business advice that you won't get anywhere else. This follow-up to The 5-Second Rule (available only in audio) takes the classic talk-show format and elevates it to a premium audio experience. Listen to private coaching sessions between the celebrated motivational speaker and people like you - people who want better relationships, to be healthier and more productive, to get unstuck from the destructive habits holding them back, and to take action on their dreams. Packed with simple yet transformative tools, you can hear Kick Ass with Mel Robbins one session at a time or binge on them all. As brilliant and inspiring as she is entertaining, Mel Robbins will empower you to live the kick-ass life that's been waiting for you. Mel Robbins is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most booked motivational speaker, viral TED Talk sensation (12+ Million views) and the author of The 5 Second Rule (Amazonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;Top Ten Most Read Listâ&#x20AC;? and is one of the most successful audiobooks ever published)! Listen and unlock your power with private coaching sessions that will take your life, work and relationships to the next level! Get it at www.Audible.com.au/kickass (link live 9 May).

Lucky Bitch, by Denise Duffield-Thomas From being broke, hating her office job, and generally having a life that made her completely miserable, Denise went on to travel the world and make all of her dreams come true within the space of a few years, including attracting more than half a million dollarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; worth of free travel, scholarships, prizes, and bank errors in her favour. And in this book, she shows how you can do the same. Wherever you are with luck - whether you're already lucky and you want to attract even more into your life, or you feel like your luck is about to run out - Lucky Bitch will show you how to take action in areas of your life that are lacking in magic. With humour and encouragement, Denise gives clear and effective instructions, based on the principles of the Law of Attraction and manifestation, that will get you closer to luck and closer to your dream life. You'll learn the â&#x20AC;&#x2122;Ten Lucky Bitch Commandmentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and the secrets to creating luck in business, in love, and with money. This book has already changed the lives of tens of thousands of women. Now it has the potential to change yours. If you've been asking for an answer or a miracle, this book is it! RRP $19.99.

Come in and see what sets us apart! Multiple specialties including: Chiropractic | Massage Naturopathy | Dry Needling Longer appointment times that aren't rushed Realistic treatment plans with your best interests in mind Genuine, caring practitioners Life is too short to live with chronic pain or lowered levels of health!

Mention Intouch Magazine to receive 25% off your initial consultation

Open Monday to Friday 8:30am - 6pm Saturday 8:30am - 12pm 245 Maitland Road, Mayfield Ph (02) 4968 9450 www.innerwestchironewcastle.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43

The INS and OUTS

of Breast Implants WORDS DR GARY AVERY - FRACS (Plast Surg) Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Avery Plastic Surgery.

If I have breast augmentation surgery what type and shape of implants are the best? How long do the implants last? Can I breastfeed afterwards? These are some of the questions about breast implants that I get asked every day by women who have been thinking about and researching breast augmentation surgery. There is a lot of information available about breast implants and breast augmentation surgery via your search engines, but it’s not always reliable. This article

will attempt to answer some of the most commonly asked questions. However, I need to preface this by saying that it is not a substitute for an in-depth consultation with a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who can talk with you about your specific concerns and explore the benefit versus risk equation with you. All surgery is influenced by what each person is trying to achieve and other factors that can influence the final outcome, like natural breast shape and skin quality. What is breast augmentation surgery? Often this is an aesthetic surgery undertaken by women who never developed their ideal breast size or women whose breasts have decreased in size and would like to restore fullness to them. Breast implants can also be used in a reconstructive manner, to restore the size and shape of a breast or breasts following mastectomy. The first breast augmentation occurred in 1962 in the USA, and over the last ten years, it has arguably become the most popular aesthetic operation in Australia. What type and shape of implants are the best? Highquality implants from a proven supplier are essential. The implants themselves are either filled with a silicone gel or a saline solution. A silicon outer shell that is either smooth or textured in appearance covers both types of implants. This outer shell affects how they feel and movement within the breast pocket. There are two main shapes of implants – round or teardrop. The latter also known as anatomical, or contoured. The shape can affect the amount of fullness in the upper or lower part of the breast, and will be better suited to you depending on the amount of ptoisis (sagging) you have, nipple placement, how wide or close-set your breasts are, the amount of breast tissue you have, your natural breast shape, and the aesthetic outcome you are hoping for. Sometimes bringing photos to your consultation of the outcome you would like to achieve can assist with a discussion about what shape

Dr Gary Avery is a specialist Plastic Surgeon who performs cosmetic body and facial procedures including: • Breast Augmentation • Breast Reduction • Breast Reconstruction • Abdominoplasty • Rhinoplasty Avery Plastic Surgery Suite 1, Ground Floor 31-33 Watt Street Newcastle NSW 2300

CALL. (02) 4002 4150 info@averyplasticsurgery.com.au

www.averyplasticsurgery.com.au 44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

implant is most likely to achieve your desired outcome. How long do implants last for? Most surgeons and implant manufacturers will quote ten years for the expected period a breast implant is reliable. It is possible for implants to last up to and even beyond 20 years. They may need to be replaced if surrounding tissue has hardened (capsular contraction), which can change the appearance and feel of the breast, or if the implants rupture. An ultrasound or MRI can confirm the condition of your implants and is recommended if you notice a change in your breasts at any stage or around the ten-year mark if there have been no changes. The important thing to remember with breast augmentation surgery is that you may need further surgery at some point in your life to remove and/ or replace the original implants. The younger you are for your initial implant surgery means a higher likelihood of further surgery later on. Can I breastfeed with breast implants? In general, it should be possible to breastfeed after breast augmentation with implants. This is especially the case when the surgery is performed with an incision in the lower breast fold, known as an infra-mammary incision. However, like all surgeries, the procedure carries an element of risk that should be considered in your decision-making process and in consultation with your Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. If you would have questions you would like Dr Avery to answer, please email info@averyplasticsurgery.com.au. Dr Avery has operated as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in the Hunter region for over five years, treating over 5000 people with reconstructive or aesthetic procedures.

Vaginal Rejuvenation • Beauty Skin Laser • Cosmetic Medicine Cosmetic Tattooing • Cold Laser Skin Health (Acne, Pigmentation, Rosacea, Sun Damage)

FACE THE FACTS...

About Acne At The Mayah Clinic, Dr Holmes and her professional team treat a wide variety of skin concerns. Their goal is to teach clients how to look after their skin - to achieve true skin wellness. One of the common concerns of clients coming into the clinic is acne, so this month We asked Dr Holmes why people should worry about treating acne. If you leave it, won’t it usually go away? If you leave acne untreated it can result in permanent scars and marks on the skin. As well as that, acne is painful making skin tender and more sensitive. This then can make a person feel less confident in themselves and even depressed. Do many people suffer from acne? Acne is much more common than some people think! It affects 90% of teenagers, 50% of adult women and a smaller percentage of adult men. All our lives, skin goes through a process of shedding dead skin cells and producing oil. This shedding process is affected by our hormones, genetics, diet and environmental factors. Clogged pores and pimples start when these elements come together in a particular way. Then pores get clogged, and particular skin bacteria can flourish, causing inflammation in the pore and the surrounding skin. Blackheads, pimples and cysts are all part of acne. Does dirt cause pimples? Not really. It’s dead cells and oils in the skin that are involved. In fact, if we over cleanse our skin, or scrub it too hard with rough, scratchy scrubs, our oil-producing glands will be triggered to make MORE oil. This just makes everything worse! Drying out the surface of the skin with alcoholic toners will cause this too. The result will be dry, flaky skin on the surface and heaps of oil being produced from deeper down. Is the sun good for acne? NO! UV light messes with the skin’s immune system and barrier function. Not only will it make acne worse, but it will also often darken scars and marks caused by the acne. Finding a light textured sunscreen that will not block pores but is SPF 50+ should be a priority for acne sufferers. Can anything I eat affect my acne? There is now evidence that dairy products in the diet can trigger acne or make it

Dr Katherine Holmes

worse. The current idea is that the hormones in milk might be the culprit, but this is still being investigated. Remember that a lot of protein shakes can be like concentrated milk products. Also, there is evidence now that foods that make our blood sugar spike can make acne worse. This means that high-fibre, whole grain foods, nuts and pulses are best, instead of simple, refined sugar and white flour. For chocolate lovers - well- there is no solid evidence. It would make sense that the spiking of the blood sugar would still be an issue, but dark chocolate is full of anti-oxidants that skin loves. Greasy food like pizza and chips don’t directly create oil on the skin, BUT saturated dietary fat can cause inflammation in all our body organs, including the skin. What can be done then? A treatment plan will be different depending on skin type, age, and severity of the acne. There is a wide range of options, from active, effective home skin care, active facials, LED light, Broadband Light and Laser, Microneedling, and prescription medications. My advice would be not to waste money on products with a lot of marketing hype. See a professional that you trust, and who will listen to you, understand your needs and recommend a reliable solution. The Mayah Clinic aims for skin wellness for all clients. It offers Broadband Light and Skin Laser, Cosmetic Tattooing, Rationale Enzyme Facials, Brow and Lash treatments, Microneedling, Cold Laser, Photonsmart LED, Cosmetic Antiwrinkle and Filler Injections, ThermiVa vaginal rejuvenation, ThermiSmooth skin rejuvenation. The Clinic carries Rationale Skin Care, DNA Renewal SkinCare, Biretix Skin Care, and Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup.

Meet LEE HOLMES!

5/149 Ambleside Circuit, Lakelands PH 4954 5044 www.themayahclinic.com.au

Food has so much power over us - mood, health problems, weight and energy levels are all affected by what we eat. We are all ultimately responsible for our own wellbeing, so why not feed our bodies the nutrients and energy it craves, while looking after our overall health? Lee Holmes is a Certified Holistic Health Coach, Hatha Yoga teacher, whole foods chef and author. She is passionate about S.O.L.E food; sustainable, organic, local and ethical - in other words, whole foods! Lee has also helped improve food in Australian hospitals through a petition for a healthier menu, introduced by the Minister for Health. Lee's website (www.superchargedfood.com) is packed full of information on nutrition, healing foods, simple recipes (including gluten free and gut friendly), supplements, news and reviews - and now, you can meet her! In conjunction with Mullen Health, Lee will be running a FREE Supercharge Your Gut talk from 7pm - 9pm at Charlestown Multi-Purpose Centre, 17 James Street Charlestown on Tuesday, May 22. There is limited seating so get in early - books and products will be available on the night! Keep up to date on the event through the Mullen Natural Health Centre facebook event.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 45

Family Business Profile

BESPOKE QUALITY

and Style

After 13 years as a visual merchandiser, it’s clear Alison Raine has an eye for detail and a passion for design. And what caught her eye more than 20 years ago were the warm, tactile tones of wood. Alison is one half of the creative spark that inspired Wildflower Furniture, a locally owned furniture manufacturer that has been operating in Newcastle since 1994. She and co-founder John Skoumbourdis initially began their business at home, drawing on their individual backgrounds to hand craft their own unique line of furniture and homewares. But the hobby soon expanded into a full-time job, with the duo taking the leap of faith to launch Wildflower Furniture as a bonafide business. “Wildflower has been operating since 1994,” Alison said. “I had spent 13 years as a visual merchandiser, as well as doing new shop fit-outs and refurbishments for Angus & Coote jewellers, while John has a background in carpentry. “The business started as a home-based hobby producing handmade products to sell at markets. “But as popularity for our products grew it inspired us to explore the option of it becoming a viable business.” Alison and John started off small to ensure they could build a foundation for their business as solid as the timber they work with. But in the past 24 years, Wildflower Furniture has grown significantly to become a popular option for both homeowners and businesses seeking quality, style and something a little different when it comes to their furniture options. “From the days at the markets selling handcrafts and giftware we have evolved into a full-blown furniture manufacturer, starting small and growing slowly over the years,” Alison said. “Our main aims are to streamline our production and offer more pieces on our showroom floor as well still providing our custom orders. We have also done several commercial jobs which is something we enjoy and wish to pursue further.” Those commercial jobs have seen Wildwood Furniture 46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Amy Pounder (L) and Alison Raine (R).

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

collaborating with local architects, designers and construction companies to complete projects at the Toronto Workers Club café, Raymond Terrace Bowling Club and Marketown Medical Centre. However, the bulk of their business remains in helping homeowners looking for high quality, locally-made pieces that are built to last and designed to enhance the beauty and style of their interior spaces. From bathroom vanities, sideboards and bookcases to hallstands, entertainment units and bedroom furniture – not to mention one of the most comprehensive ranges of dining tables in Newcastle – Wildflower Furniture has a stain and style to suit every taste. Located in the Warners Bay industrial area, Wildflower Furniture has an extensive showroom, with all items handcrafted in their factory at Cardiff by fully qualified cabinet makers. The business has grown to include ten staff, with all of their tradesmen originally joining the team as apprentices. They manufacture predominantly using the environmentally-friendly Victorian Ash, however, they also produce pieces in a range of other Australian hardwood timbers. While colours and trends in furniture are constantly changing, Alison said timber provided a classic look that never went out of style. “We choose Victorian Ash for its look and blonde/ash colour tones, which make it great to tint as well but also look great in its natural state,” Alison said. “It is also a plantation grown renewable resource. “We also work in Blackbutt and other speciality timbers. “Furniture styles have changed dramatically over the years with trends coming, going and then returning. This applies to both styles and colours. “The hottest trend at the moment is for the natural look featuring all the character timber has to offer. Vanities, in particular, are making a big comeback in timber. “We have also had many customers come back over the years and purchase additional furniture pieces to match their pre-existing Wildflower Furniture, which proves that beautiful timber furniture is a timeless addition to any home.” Aside from their standard stock items, Alison said they love being able to work with customers to make their furniture dreams become a custom-built reality.

“We pride ourselves on quality, price competitiveness and customer service. We constantly liaise with clients in their homes as well as our showroom,” she said. “If you can't find what you're looking for we specialise in custom made orders. “From built-in desks to custom media units, we can create the perfect piece of furniture to suit you and your style. “A lot of our big custom jobs are challenging, but one small job that stands out was the side table that incorporated a pull out cooler drawer, cheese tray and remote holder. “It was a man cave in a table! “For those people taking advantage of apartment living, this is where we really shine. We can tailor make furniture to suit smaller areas while still incorporating storage without compromising in design. “Whether they’re living in a small apartment or downsizing into an over 55's, we can design the perfect pieces to suit the customer’s lifestyle needs.” Alison said the best thing about manufacturing all their furniture locally was the convenience it offered their customers and the flexibility it allowed in terms of trying something new. “We aim to combine quality workmanship and modern design at an affordable price,” she said. “The advantages of manufacturing means we can change styles and trends immediately based on customer demand. “For example, if someone sees a table on The Block that they love, we can have it on the floor within days. “We are currently working on some fantastic new designs showcasing different coloured panels by Italian company Fenix, and Syncron textured panels. With the combination of the beautiful solid timber and the modern block colours, the sky is the limit when designing your statement piece.”

The boys (John Skoumbourdis second from right).

Tr u s t , h o n e s t y, t r a n s p a r e n c y a n d a c c o u n t a b i l i t y a r e t h e building blocks of a positive relationship If you have ever gone through the process of selling a home, chances are your memories of the experience will be filled with commissions, percentages, extra fees for the sign, marketing and the lis t goes on. M a y b e y o u h a v e e n g a g e d a n a g e n t t o m a n a g e y o u r i n v e s t m e n t p r o p e r t y, o n l y t o f i n d t h a t t h e m o n e y m a d e f r o m t h e i n v e s t m e n t i s b e i n g e a t e n u p i n f e e s?

W h at if yo u r ex p e r ie n ce wa s dif fe re nt?

What if you knew the costs and had the securit y of knowing you c o u l d w i t h d r a w f r o m t h e a g r e e m e n t i f y o u w e r e u n h a p p y? This is possible with Hart Property and our flat fee ser vices.

O ur Fully Inclusive Fixed Fee packages provide t he bes t value, the best results and the best customer experience in a changing, dynamic proper t y market like our great region. Conveyancing is included as par t of the package, no need to shop around f o r a l o c a l c o n v e y a n c e r o r e x p e n s i v e s o l i c i t o r, w e â&#x20AC;&#x2122; v e d o n e t h e w o r k f o r y o u . Conveyancing for sellers is a relatively simple and uncomplicated process. All marketing costs are included as par t of our fee, no additional money up-front l i k e o t h e r a g e n c i e s w i l l a s k f o r. H a r t P r o p e r t y l e a d t h e r e g i o n i n c o s t e f f e c t i v e , highly success ful social media marketing c ampaigns. What we believe will undoubtedly be the future of selling Real Estate.

Newcastle | Lake Macquarie | Hunter Andrew Pritchard | Director P

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a n d r ew@ h a r t p r o p e r t y. co m . a u

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Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley & Port Stephens| May 2018

Articles inside

Bespoke Quality & Style | Wildflower Furniture

10 Years of Vivid Sydney @ www.intouchmagazine.com.au

JULIA MORRIS | Making Every Bite Count