Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley | INTOUCH MAGAZINE MAY 21' ISSUE by INTOUCH MAGAZINE

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ISSUE #65 // MAY 2021

GIVING IT A SHOT

PLUS.... HEALTH & WELLBEING Special Focus Get Ready for Your Next OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Managing a Bully in Your Workplace

Urzila Carlson

Lifestyle // Entertainment // Dining // Community // Travel // Family // Health // Home // Property

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From the

EDITORS... Welcome to the May issue of intouch Magazine! There has been a lot of “this time last year” discussions going on in our office lately; where were we (in fact, we were all working from home), how long did we think this would go on for (nowhere near this long!) and what have we had to postpone over the last 12 months. Of course, this discussion extended to the May 2020 issue – which was, in fact, our first ever digital-only issue, appropriately titled the ‘Stay at Home’ issue (like we had a choice!). It was the first time in 5 years that we hadn’t printed an issue – and would have marked our fifth anniversary. But of course, our readers took up the opportunity to read it online as intended, and whilst we all missed opening the crisp pages of a newly printed magazine – we got through it! For some, who didn’t realise that intouch Magazine was also a fabulously free website with an interactive digital magazine that could be read for free on any device, May 2020 was a revelation. And it made us wonder, what else did we learn to do differently over the past twelve months, either through necessity or just putting ourselves outside our comfort zone? For me, it was shopping for groceries online (I might never go back!). What was it for you? One person who certainly wouldn’t be where she is today without putting herself outside her comfort zone is this month’s cover story – Urzila Carlson. Despite being terrified to get on stage again after her first foray into stand up comedy, Urzila says that she doesn’t believe in letting opportunities slip by because she doesn’t believe in living with regret. So she walked out on stage for a second time, and the rest, as they say, is history. Read more on page 10. For many of us, the past year gave us time to pause and assess our habits and lifestyle choices, with a focus on health being top of mind for most. In this issue, we also focus on health issues and find out why we should have regular skin checks and how Timana Tahu and the team at John Hunter are driving major innovations in concussion prevention. We also learn more about overcoming vaccination misinformation, why it’s good to be ‘boring’ in the dentist’s chair and much more. Check out our Health & Wellbeing Special Focus on page 27.

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Contents

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ISSUE #65 | MAY 2021 8

It's No Longer Hypothetical... Geoffrey Robertson QC

Giving it a Shot – Urzila Carlson

The Gift of Pure Entertainment

Everything You Need for Your Next Outdoor Adventure!

Open Day for Learning – Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College

Grab Your Skates – Hockey's Back for 2021!

Jersey Boys is Coming to Newcastle!

Don't Judge a Man by His Mullet!

Beauty, Health & Wellbeing Special Focus

Massage for Health & Wellbeing

30 Cheek-to- Cheek Theory Leads to Groundbreaking Research 31

Advances in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

The Most Boring Patient

How to Make the Most of Your Local Gym Membership

Managing a Bully in Your Business

REGULARS 6

What's On?

Family & Community

Health & Wellbeing

Home & Lifestyle

Horoscopes

Urzila Carlson doesn’t believe in wasting opportunities, so when a workmate signed her up for an open mic stand-up comedy night – despite not having any experience or interest in the industry – the South African born New Zealander decided to give it a shot. Read more on page 10.

Here’s to good health!

Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address 297 Brunker Road, Adamstown, NSW 2289 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales (02) 4943 0888

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CONTRIBUTORS

View this month’s Issue of intouch magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone.

Alex Huszti City of Newcastle Chloe O’Sullivan Di von Essen Dr Stuart Mackenzie Gjenae Rosekelly

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Jess Codrington Liane Morris Mel Murray Michelle Meehan Nineways Chiropractic Quentin von Essen

Rosmarie Milsom Tahlia Jennings Tanya Obreza

© Copyright 2021 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

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WHAT'S On? Live & Cookin’ Look who is coming to dinner!

rs! Use Your Dine + Discover Vouche

May A LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH DARREN PERCIVAL AND BILL RISBY Sunday 2 FELICITY URQUHART AND JOSH CUNNINGHAM Thursday 6 HOLDING BACK THE YEARS - THE MUSIC OF SIMPLY RED Friday 7 BRUCE MATHISKE Saturday 8 MOTHERS DAY DINNER WITH THE WONDERFUL WENDY MATTHEWS Sun 9 THE GRIGORYAN BROTHERS Thursday 13 DANCIN IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN

Friday 14

BEN LEE Saturday 15 + Sunday 16 SUNDAY HOT LUNCH WITH PATRICK MCMAHON + FAHRENHEIT Sunday 16 JOHN WATERS - THE JOHN LENNON SONGBOOK Thursday 20 STEVE BALBI Friday 21 ROCKET MAN VS PIANO MAN Saturday 22 BACKSLIDERS Sunday 23 BLUEZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH THE INCREDIBLE DARYL ABERHART Sunday 23 JADE MACRAE Thursday 27 LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH THE INCREDIBLE JAMES MORRISON Sun 30

June STEVE KILBEY + THE WINGED HEELS

Thursday 3

THE ILLUME GIRLS Friday 4 31 Morehead Street, Lambton Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED LIVE SHOWS starting from $65 (including dinner)

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Wednesday’s

+ See who else is coming to dinner...

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SATURDAY MAY 1 Nothing Else Matters: A Symphonic Tribute to METALLICA The George Ellis Orion Orchestra with Damage Inc perform Metallica Classics at Civic Theatre. Free Women’s Empowerment Program Special Event Month Visit www.huntermartialarts.com.au/mothers-month-special-event to find locations and times for this great event. Lake Mac Autumn Fair Family fun day with a range of activities for all ages. Speers Point Park, 9am–4pm. ‘Ouvre’ by Goya Torres Exhibition A mix of paintings, print-making pieces and 3D work at Toronto library, Lake Macquarie until June 25. THURSDAY MAY 6 You’re Kidding Me A program connecting Lake Mac families with local services to support the learning and development of young children. Workshops include self-regulation and sleeping skills for children and sustainable living tips and tricks. 6–27 May. Visit www.lakemac.com.au The Gospel According to Paul One of Australia’s favourite performers, Jonathan Biggins, is Paul Keating – visionary, reformer and rabble-rouser, at Civic Theatre. FRIDAY MAY 7 Chinchen St Pop up Shop & Exhibition A unique shopping experience plus a fashion photography exhibit of recycled textile art. Running 7–16 May, 10am–4pm (closed Mon & Tues) at The Owens Collective, Islington. See Facebook event for more details. SATURDAY MAY 8 Grapes of Mirth Five of Australia’s best comedians and your host Merrick Watts will make their way to The Station. Tickets at Moshtix. Miss Porter’s House as Artists’ Muse An exhibition by the Athena group of women artists, inspired by the stories and historic objects in Miss Porter's House. 8+9 May, tickets at eventbrite. All German Day A car showcase event at Newcastle Foreshore. SUNDAY MAY 9 Mother's Day High Tea at City Hall Tickets from Civic Theatre. Sunday Sessions at MAC Grab a wine or beer, enjoy some local music and artmaking. Tickets $20. 9+30 May, visit Eventbrite. FRIDAY MAY 14 Memories for a Lifetime The Rotary Club of Belmont is holding a fundraising luncheon at Lake Mac Yacht Club to support the work of Dementia Australia. Tickets $60pp, visit www.trybooking.com SATURDAY MAY 15 Wellbeing & Mystic Festival A variety of Wellbeing & Spiritual stalls at The Station Newcastle, 9am–5pm. Free! 'Contradictions' by Sophie Seeger at Blackstone Gallery, 15–29 May. FRIDAY MAY 21 Soul Café Sleepout for Soul A sleepout raising funds for the homeless at Bolton St car park or virtually. www.soulcafe.org.au SATURDAY MAY 22 Variety Family Fun Day Live entertainment, food stalls, inflatables and fun activities – something for the whole family to enjoy at Newcastle Foreshore, 11am–3pm.

Friends With Dignity – High Tea With Friends For Domestic & Family Violence Awareness Month. At NEX, visit Facebook for more info. SUNDAY MAY 23 Eurovision Song Contest 2021 Grand Final Broadcast Free viewing party for everyone’s favourite song contest. Warners Bay Theatre, visit lakemac.com.au/whatson Up in the Air Festival Family fun with fly-overs, aerobatic displays, kite flying, food trucks and more. At Rathmines Park and Theatre, tickets from $5. www.lakemac.com.au/whatson Newcastle Chilli Festival Food trucks, wine & beer, stalls and live music at The Station, Newcastle 9am–5pm. FRIDAY MAY 28 Newcastle Comedy Festival Gala at Civic Theatre Newcastle. Newcastle Comedy Festival A range of shows happening from 28 May–13 June, including the likes of Luke Heggie, Gen Fricker, and more. Visit www.newycomedyfest.com SATURDAY MAY 29 Paw Patrol Live at Newcastle Entertainment Centre, 29+30 May. SATURDAY JUNE 5 Prada Clutch's: All-Drag Revue at Civic Theatre.

CHECK INDIVIDUAL EVENTS BEFORE PLANNING!

MARKET GUIDE SATURDAY MAY 1 Olive Tree Market at Civic Park, Newcastle 9am–2pm. Pelican Foreshore Market at Pelican Foreshore, 9am–1pm. SUNDAY MAY 2 Newcastle City Farmers Market at Newcastle Showground EVERY Sunday, 7am–1pm. Adamstown Lions Club Markets Cnr Brunker and Glebe Roads, EVERY Sunday 7am–12pm. SUNDAY MAY 9 Newcastle Vegan Market at The Station Newcastle, 9am–3pm. Lake Macquarie Finders & Keepers Markets at Quinn Park, Swansea, 8am–1pm. SATURDAY MAY 15 Warners Bay Markets at Warners Bay Foreshore, 8am–2pm. Feast Fest Twilight Market at Speers Point Park, 4pm–8pm. SUNDAY MAY 16 Homegrown Market at Speers Point Park, 10am–2pm. THURSDAY MAY 20 Belmont Country Women’s Association Markets at Lake Macquarie Centre, Wilson's Road, Mount Hutton 8:30am–1pm. SATURDAY MAY 22 Homegrown Markets at The Station, 9am–2pm. SUNDAY MAY 30 Homegrown Markets at Bimbadgen, 10am–2pm.

WINE, CHEESE & CHOCOLATE AT MCGUIGAN Immerse yourself in the flavours of the Hunter in this exquisite Wine, Cheese & Chocolate tasting. Relax in a private tasting area with a dedicated wine expert who will help you explore the exceptional wines that have made McGuigan one of the most awarded wineries in the world. You will enjoy a selection of the best seasonal, hand-crafted cheeses from the artisans at Hunter Valley Cheese Factory, plus carefully selected hand made chocolates by artisan chocolatier Maître Pâtissier complementing a range of premium McGuigan dessert and fortified wines.

Cost – $25pp pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 to 6 people. Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.

WHAT'S On?

WHAT'S ON IN

Lake Mac

� AROUND LAKE MACQUARIE

Fans of glam are invited to don their most Euro-Fabulous outfit and cheer on the finalists of the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest, broadcast live from Rotterdam at Warners Bay Theatre on Sunday 23 May. Later that day, Up in the Air Festival, will be held at Rathmines Park featuring flyovers and aerobatics, giant bubbles, kite flying, food trucks and more. If a relaxing afternoon making art, listening to live music and tasting cheese and wine sounds more your style, head to the Museum of Art and Culture’s Sunday Sessions on 9 and 30 May. Get your tickets via mac.lakemac.au for $20 per person. While you’re there, check out Real Worlds: Dobell Australian Drawing Biennial 2020 from Saturday 15 May – the work of eight contemporary Australian artists who create extraordinary new worlds through lavish drawings. Visit www.lakemac.com.au to find out what else is happening around the lake this May.

Wellbeing & Mystic Festival � SATURDAY MAY 15, AT THE STATION, NEWCASTLE This festival will include a variety of wellbeing & spiritual stalls, readers, healers and food trucks. Catch guest speakers on stage including Celebrity Medium Mitchell Coomes, Spiritual Teacher Robert Reeves and other interactive entertainment including Drumming and Tai Chi. Megamania will be bringing rides for the kids and face painting will be available for the young (or young at heart). This family friendly event will have something for everyone! Entry is free, with the event running 9am–5pm.

� EVENT CINEMAS, GLENDALE

The All GERMAN DAY will be held this year on the Newcastle Foreshore on Saturday May 8. This showcase event of fine German Motor cars including Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Audi, BMW and VW is coordinated by the (Mercedes Benz) MB Classic Car Club Inc. Newcastle and Hunter Valley. Now in its 14th year, this not to be missed event supporting Nobby’s Surf Lifesaving Club, attracts entrants from Newcastle the Hunter Valley, Sydney and Canberra. Registration cost is $15 per vehicle (on the day) from 7.30am.

Sorry!

SUNDAY MAY 23, AT THE STATION The weather may have cooled down, but this will be the Hottest Day in Newcastle! If you are a fan of all things HOT then this is the day for you. This will be a great day for all chilli lovers with loads of chilli products and food, plus a chilli eating competition. If you're not so thrilled on chilli – don't worry as there will also be more food trucks, wine and beer, stalls and live music. The kids will be kept amused with a kids zone too. The festival is free, running 9am–5pm.

Newcastle Comedy Festival Gala May Free Movie Month

ALL GERMAN DAY

>NEWCASTLE CHILLI F E S T I VA L

From Wednesday May 5–Wednesday May 26 you'll be able to enjoy a free film screening each Wednesday 6pm, at Event Cinemas Glendale! Films include: Fantastic Fungi – A time-lapse journey into the magical, mysterious and medicinal world of fungi and their power to heal, sustain and contribute to the regeneration of life. Rubber Jellyfish – Explores the impact helium balloons are having on global endangered marine wildlife populations, especially birds and turtles. The Weather Diaries – A feature documentary made by a mother concerned about the future for her daughter. Peloton Against Plastic – A bike ride aiming to share the stories of people combating the plastic pollution problem around the globe. Films are free but you must register – visit www.eventbrite.com.au and search for Event Cinemas Glendale.

A celebration of non-stop comedy with an amazing line-up of the festival’s funniest international stars, homegrown legends and next-big-things in comedy. Appearing in a jam-packed, two-hour show at Civic Theatre on May 28, don’t miss out – get your tickets now! Visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

>PBR NEWCASTLE ORIGIN 1 � NEWCASTLE ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE The PBR’s (Professional Bull Riders) Monster Energy Tour is bringing the greatest rivalry in Australian sport, a headto-head competition of the Maroons vs Blues, to Newcastle on July 3! This is a competition of state vs state, mate vs mate, in the biggest bull riding competition of the year. Visit www.pbraustralia.com.au for tickets.

N E WCA STLE C I T Y

FARMERS MARKET 7AM–1PM | EVERY SUNDAY at Broadmeadow Showground

+ Lots More

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 7

WHAT’S ON

6 MAY - 27 MAY Discover a variety of resources and services for parents and families at You’re Kidding Me.

12 MAY

Hop aboard the History Illuminated Cruise with local historian Ed Tonks for an educational journey around the lake.

IT’S NO LONGER HYPOTHETICAL... GEOFFREY ROBERTSON QC EXPERIENCE A PROVOCATIVE, INSIGHTFUL AND WITTY EVENING WITH INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS JUDGE AND BARRISTER GEOFFREY ROBERTSON QC, 20 MAY AT THE CIVIC THEATRE. WATCH LIVE AS ONE OF THE WORLD’S GREAT MINDS CHALLENGES AUSTRALIANS AND EXPLAINS WHAT IS HAPPENING IN AND TO THE GLOBE.

23 MAY

Cheer on the finalists of the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest, broadcast live from Rotterdam at Warners Bay Theatre.

23 MAY

Head to Rathmines Park for Up in the Air Festival, a new event featuring fly-overs, aerobatic displays and fun for the whole family.

Discover more of what’s on in Lake Mac at

lakemac.com.au/whatson 8 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Renowned and respected worldwide for his work as a human rights barrister, academic, author and broadcaster and one of the world’s great minds, Geoffrey Robertson will take to the stage in an evening of thought and analysis as he

HIGH TEA With Friends

Australian Charity of the Year 2018, Friends With Dignity, is an incredible not-for-profit organisation providing support to men, women and children displaced by domestic and family violence.

discusses some of the biggest issues of our time. He will discuss Brexit and Trump in a post-truth era and calls for Australia’s constitutional regeneration after the bushfires. He will explain what is really happening to the royal family and how fake news distorts democracy. He will also explain what is happening to Julian Assange, how to stop the rich from inheriting the world, and the thinking behind his upcoming book Bad People – And How to Be Rid of Them. The show will give an insight into his life and famous cases and his crusade to restore cultural property from museums around the world to the people from whom it was stolen. Geoffrey Robertson AO QC is a barrister, author and one-time host of “Geoffrey Robertson’s Hypotheticals” on the ABC. He is the founder and head of Doughty Street Chambers, now the largest human rights practice in Europe, where he has been a mentor to Amal Clooney, Jen Robinson, Keir Starmer and others. This is an evening that is bound to provoke dinner table discussions and debate for many months to come. For more information, visit www.lateralevents.com. Tickets are available at www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

This month, Friends With Dignity will be hosting four High Tea With Friends events around Australia in support of Domestic and Family Violence Awareness Month. Including a High Tea right here in Newcastle! Join the team of volunteers and very special guests for an afternoon of fantastic food, frivolity and amazing friends to help raise critical funding. Tickets to this fabulous afternoon with Friends includes a glass of bubbles on arrival, a decadent high tea, guest speakers, raffles/auction and a whole lot of fun!

WHAT High Tea with Friends WHEN Saturday 22 May, 2pm–5pm WHERE NEX Newcastle Exhibition & Convention Centre TICKETS www.facebook.com/FriendsWithDignity/events – click on the Newcastle event.

THE PERFECT MOTHER’S DAY GIFT!

GIVING IT A SHOT

Urzila Carlson

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

URZILA CARLSON DOESN’T BELIEVE IN WASTING OPPORTUNITIES. SO MUCH SO THAT WHEN A FORMER WORKMATE SIGNED HER UP FOR AN OPEN MIC STAND-UP COMEDY NIGHT – DESPITE NOT HAVING ANY EXPERIENCE OR INTEREST IN THE INDUSTRY – THE SOUTH AFRICAN BORN NEW ZEALANDER DECIDED TO GIVE IT A SHOT.

“I used to work in advertising as a graphic designer, but I was always cracking people up with comments I would make up in the office, and one of the copywriters, Leon, was like, ‘You have to go do stand-up, you’re so funny’,” she said. “When I was leaving to go to a different agency, Leon organised as the leaving gift a coffee machine and this fake contract to go do an open mic night. 10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

“I had honestly never even been to a stand-up comedy gig in my life at that point, but I went, and I did it. It was a fiveminute slot, so I wrote four minutes of funny stuff to give the audience a minute to laugh; that’s how arrogant I was in the beginning! “I did the one time, and I said, ‘That was it.’ It was the scariest thing I had ever done. The next day I got a call to say that I was through to the next round because what we hadn’t realised was that Leon had entered me into this ‘raw quest’ during the comedy festival where they look for new talent. “I said to the owner of the club, ‘Oh, shit no. I don’t want to do that. I’m already crushing it; I’ve got a great job. Give it to someone who’s interested in comedy’. “But he said, ‘It’s a great opportunity, you should come back and do it again’. “And because I don’t believe in letting opportunities slip through your fingers – I think if an opportunity comes up, you should take it because I don’t believe in living with regret – so I did it. “I didn’t tell anyone, not even Leon. I went back, did it again and then that year I won the Best Newcomer award and it just kind of took off from there.” That was in 2008 - and Carlson has gone from strength to strength since then to become a household name and multi-

award-winning comedian. She has won everything from the 2019 Rielly Comedy Award by the Variety Artists Club of New Zealand to the 2017 Sydney Comedy Festival’s Director’s Choice Award, while also being named the New Zealand Comedy Guild’s Best Female Comedian six times. She scored the coveted People’s Choice Award at the New Zealand International Comedy Festival two years in a row and was a nominee for Australia’s 2018 Helpmann Award for Best Comedy Performer. Carlson is also a much-loved series regular on Network Ten’s smash-hit panel show, Have You Been Paying Attention?! in Australia, as well as New Zealand’s edition of the show, and was a key cast member on fellow comedian Nazeem Hussain’s flagship show, Orange Is The New Brown in Australia in 2018. She had a blistering year in 2019, which saw her NETFLIX debut as one of 47 comedians handpicked from around the world to become part of the streaming service’s unprecedented stand-up comedy event series. Carlson followed that up in 2020 with the release of her first solo full hour NETFLIX special, Overqualified Loser, which she recorded in Melbourne at the end of 2019. She has regularly sold out her seasons in Australia and New Zealand over the years and was the 2019 Melbourne

International Comedy Festival’s highest ticket-seller, which secured her the People’s Choice Award. While making a dramatic career change in her early 30s might have seemed pretty daunting at the time, Carlson has clearly never looked back. “When I got into it, I didn’t know how many different facets there were to comedy. I thought if you’re a stand-up, that’s what you did. You stood on stage and told some jokes,” she said. “But I’ve since learned there’s a heap more, you can do writing for movies, or sometimes I get a script, and they go, ‘Can you make this character funny?’ There are so many other things you can do within the industry. “And I love 99% of it. But the one thing that is head and shoulders above the rest is live stand-up gigs. I love it. And whether it’s in a pub with 20 people, or whether it’s in a theatre with 5,500 people, if it’s live stand-up, I am in my absolute element. “That is my favourite thing to do in the world, and I love it even though I get terrible stage fright. “That walk from the side of the stage to the microphone is the longest walk in the history of man. When I’m standing side of stage and my music starts playing for me to go on, and usually, my stage manager or my tour manager will intro me, and when it gets to that point when now I have to get ready to walk out on stage I always think, ‘Why the f**k am I doing this? I can go back to advertising. I’ve got other skills. I don’t need to put myself through this horror’. “But then the minute I touch that microphone, and I start talking, and they start laughing, I’m like, ‘I’m home. This is

I ALWAYS TRY AND SNEAK A LITTLE SOMETHING INTO EVERY SHOW BECAUSE I JUST FEEL THAT IF I GET TO TALK TO THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE EVERY YEAR, I MAY AS WELL SEND SOMETHING OUT INTO THE WORLD THAT’S MORE THAN JUST A BIT OF NOISE. the best place to be in the entire world’. “I love it; I don’t question the decision to change careers for a second. It’s just amazing.” Carlson does question plenty of other things in life, though, which often becomes the basis of material for her next stand-up show. This was certainly the case in 2016 when she started exploring questions around her background and ancestry. “I did a DNA test, you know, those ancestry things, and when I got the results, I’m like, ‘I’m going to have to do a show about this,’ because I was completely blown away,” Carlson said. “Because my mum grew up in foster care, we had no idea of our make-up of the family. So I did the ancestry thing, and it was quite revealing. And I was like, oh, this is great. I’m going to do a show about it. “I lived in the States before, and when I was getting my driver’s licence, someone had said to put where you’re from,

and I said, ‘African’ and they wouldn’t put it on my driver’s licence because it didn’t fit the description. And I was like, ‘But I am African’. “And so this was the whole thing, what am I? We’ve got this great saying in Afrikaans, which means you’re neither flesh nor meat. You’re sort of not sure where you fit in. “So then when I got the ancestry results back, I was like, okay, now I know precisely my genetic make-up, but I don’t think it changes anything. So I wrote a show about it two years ago, and I toured the show through New Zealand, and it’s been pretty well received. “I think anyone who has ever met an immigrant or is an immigrant would relate to it, or if you’re not sure where you’re from.” The show is Token African, which Carlson intended to bring to Australia last year before COVID-19 brought everyone’s lives to a virtual standstill. With restrictions easing and live performances now back on the agenda, Carlson is preparing for a 10city tour across Australia with Token African, kicking off with a three-night Brisbane season from May 3 before heading south to bring her quick-witted brand of comedy to the Newcastle Civic Theatre stage on May 14 and 15. As you’d expect from an award-winning comedian, the promo blurb for the show asks as many questions as it answers: “Africans have become the new must-have accessory. Okay, not really, but everyone knows one, works with one or has a sister dating one of us. What makes you African? Is it enough that you’re born there? Do you need to be able to dance? Why does being South African not register as African in most places? You’re thinking about it right now, aren’t you? Questioning it. Africa changes people. People who visit game reserves wear ranger outfits... why is that? We don’t wear scrubs when going to the doctor... Africa puts things in perspective; this show will help you find that focus, delivered to you by a Token African.” Despite the light-hearted description, Carlson said the show also touches on some more serious topics, albeit via her trademark deadpan humour and cheeky wit. “I always try and sneak a little something into every show because I just feel that if I get to talk to thousands of people every year, I may as well send something out into the world that’s more than just a bit of noise,” Carlson said. “So the show is about how we identify and how important it is to have your own voice and to see that voice represented around. “My initial reaction when I got the ancestry results was disappointment. I was disappointed, and I was really surprised by that, because I thought that’s just sort of my blood basically, it’s not who I am as a person. “It gives you a breakdown, percentage-wise, of where you are from in the world, so I go into that a bit in the show, and just my surprise of discovering who I am genetically.” While COVID-19 delayed her initial plans for the Token African tour, it did open up plenty of other opportunities for Carlson, including a stint on the Australian reality TV program (Continued next page) ► www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 11

(Continued)

then because of COVID, I discovered I do have time now. And I thought, I’ve got access to all these amazing friends, and people that I know who are as frustrated as I am about The Masked Singer during 2020. Chosen as a replacement stuff, so I decided to do a podcast about what shits us, just for American actress Lindsay Lohan, Carlson was tasked everything that does your head in. with the challenge of trying to guess the identities of the “There’s been quite a few takers in the ‘what shits you the celebrities inside bizarre costumes, battling it out alongside best’ category. I think I’ve pre-recorded 13 episodes, and as returning panellists Dave Hughes, Dannii Minogue and radio I’m meeting people now, I go, ‘You should come and do the host Jackie O. podcast,’ and the list just keeps growing The eight-week shoot in Melbourne and growing.” from August last year coincided with the THERE’S BEEN QUITE So far, the episodes have included Victorian capital moving into a stage A FEW TAKERS IN THE everything from Nazeem Hussain four lockdown after a serious increase talking about eating yoghurt in bed to in community cases of COVID-19. ‘WHAT SHITS YOU THE Dannii Minogue and Jackie O discussing Between this experience, the initial BEST’ CATEGORY. I THINK working on The Masked Singer, internet restrictions brought in earlier in the year I’VE PRE-RECORDED 13 trolls, car park thieves and people when she was in New Zealand, and two EPISODES, AND AS I’M chewing. stints in hotel quarantine in Sydney and Australia’s Julia Morris, New Zealand Auckland, Carlson spent 11 weeks of MEETING PEOPLE NOW, I actor and comedian Rhys Darby, UK 2020 in lockdown. GO, ‘YOU SHOULD COME comedian Russell Howard and ChineseRather than waste the enforced AND DO THE PODCAST,’ born comedian Ronny Chieng round time-out from touring, Carlson turned it out the episodes released so far on the into an opportunity to pursue another AND THE LIST JUST KEEPS comedic platform she’d always wanted GROWING AND GROWING. podcast, which quickly shot to the top of the comedy charts in Australia and New to explore but never had the time to Zealand following its launch in March. invest in – creating her own podcast. Carlson said creating the podcast had been a fantastic Titled That’s Enough Already, Carlson uses it to explore experience, especially given the laidback, casual vibe that the seemingly endless topic of the things that annoy her had come from basically being able to just interview her and her guests, who just happen to be some of the funniest friends. comedians from Australia, New Zealand and beyond. “When I’m doing the podcast, I’m just chatting... every “I think if you spend 11 weeks in quarantine, you have single person so far that I’ve chatted to is a mate,” she said. some time to think about (what annoys you),” Carlson said. “It’s literally just me catching up with mates and going, “I used to say I don’t have any time for a podcast, but

RURAL SCENE PROMOTIONS PRESENTS

‘So what shits you?’ And then we just chat about it. So it’s basically just me having a Zoom catch-up, and I’m recording it. “It’s very, very relaxed. I almost want people to feel like they’re just listening in on two mates chatting because that’s exactly what it is. “I’m actually doing my editor’s mind in because I was supposed to keep it between 20 and 30 minutes, and so far, the majority of them have been over an hour-and-a-half. The one that I’m releasing soon, Sam Pang, we’re going to have to release two eps for that because we recorded for so long that we couldn’t cut it down to just 30 minutes. “When we start chatting because you know the other person so well, you’re like, ‘Ah, here we go.’ He bought a whole list of like 50,000 things that shit him to death, and then you kind of go, ‘Oh my god, every single one of them shits me too’. “I’m surprised how many things actually just shit me. People say something, and you go, ‘Yeah, me too. I never even thought about it, but yeah, I hate craft fairs too’. And then it just kind of goes off from there.”

That’s Enough Already with Urzila Carlson is available online and via the various podcasting apps. Token African will hit the stage at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre on May 14 and 15, with tickets available via www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

The Hunter Valley’s

NUMBER ONE OUTDOOR EVENT May 21, 22 & 23 • 2021

HUNTER VALLEY

Valued at $6,500

Blomfield St, Maitland Showground, Maitland

• OVER 200 EXHIBITORS • 4WD DEMO TRACK • CAMP OVEN COOKING • FISHING SHOW • FREESTYLE BIKE SHOW (SAT & SUN) (BY THE GOLD EAGLE 4WD CLUB)

9am - 5pm Friday & Saturday / 9am - 4pm Sunday Adults $15 • Aged Pensioners $11 • Kids Free with Adults 12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

KINDLY DONATED BY

Each paying visitor to the Hunter Valley Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show will receive an entry form to be placed in the barrel located at the Active 4x4 sites.

Winner will be drawn Sunday 23rd May at 4pm

Judges decision will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. Winner does not have to be present. Prize is not transferable or redeemable for cash.

facebook.com/RuralScenePromotions

Phone: (02) 6769 4132 Fax: (02) 6769 4140 Email: office@ruralscene.com.au

Impernanence Credit: Andrew Beveridge

The Gift of

PURE ENTERTAINMENT IF YOU’RE STILL SEARCHING FOR THE PERFECT MOTHER’S DAY GIFT, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN THE LINE UP ON OFFER IN THE CIVIC PRECINCT. WHETHER MUM LEANS TOWARDS POLITICAL SATIRE, CONTEMPORARY DANCE, OR SHE JUST LOVES A GOOD LAUGH, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. AND IF MUM’S GIFT IS ALREADY SORTED, PERHAPS IT’S TIME TO TREAT YOURSELF WITH ONE OF THESE GEMS! THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO PAUL Don’t miss one of Newcastle’s favourite sons, Jonathan Biggins, in his smash hit tribute: The Gospel According

to Paul. In Jonathan’s own words, Paul Keating was the Bankstown boy who soon realised “in political life, it’s better to be needed than loved. A razor-sharp wit who could destroy opponents with words alone, a romantic and a melancholic who bestrode the public stage yet remained intensely private. I can’t think of a more entertaining or significant figure in recent Australian history with whom to spend an evening.” This show is all iceberg, no tip and Newcastle audiences are in for an extra treat with Biggins hosting a Q&A after the show. ALL KILLER, NO FILLER! It’s a longstanding tradition for Novocastrians to celebrate the Queen’s birthday by laughing at Melbournians. This year will be no different, as the fabulous Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow rolls into town for two chuckle fest sessions over the June long weekend. Featuring the hottest acts direct from the Festival, including Australian stars, talented newcomers and special guest international performers, you’re in for a jampacked night of belly laughs!

(Christie Street), knock on the big green door and gain entry to the hottest and funniest new comedy venue in town! CELEBRATING IMPERMANENCE Sydney Dance Company’s latest offering is a visual and auditory feast for musicians and dancers alike. With a stunning score by Bryce Dessner from US rockers “The National”, performed live on stage by the Australian String Quartet, Rafael Bonachela’s Impermanence is full of emotional power. Described by Limelight as a “hypnotically beautiful work”, don’t miss this epic, driven performance. DINE & DISCOVER Use your “Dine & Discover” vouchers for a bargain night out. “Dine” vouchers can be redeemed at the Civic Digest for a pre-show meal, and use a “Discover” voucher to take $25 off your ticket price at any of our Covid-safe venues: Civic Theatre, Playhouse or City Hall. See the Service NSW website for more details and to register for your vouchers.

SERVING UP A SENSATIONAL NIGHT OUT The Banquet Room in City Hall is about to take on a whole new persona, as the Civic Comedy Club. The team who brought us the sold-out shows which dragged Newcastle out of its Iso Blues is returning with all-new line-ups this June and July. In a homage to the fabulous New York comedy cellars, they’ll be dishing up brilliant comedians, food and drinks in equal measures. Make your way down the back laneway

DON'T MISS The Gospel According to Paul, Civic Theatre, 6 May, 7.30pm Sydney Dance Company’s Impermanence, Civic Theatre, 9 June, 7.30pm Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow, 11 & 12 June, 8pm Civic Comedy Club, Newcastle City Hall, 25 June & 23 July, 8pm Opera Australia presents Bizet’s Carmen, Civic Theatre, 6 July, 7.30pm

BOOKINGS www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au | Ph 02 4929 1977

What’s on at the

Civic Cinema

Regular Screenings

Civic Theatre

Gift Vouchers Available online

Impermanence by Sydney Dance Company

Melbourne International Comedy Festival Roadshow

Civic Comedy Club

Carmen by Opera Australia

Wednesday 9 June 7.30pm

Friday 11 & Saturday 12 June 8pm

Friday 25 June & Friday 23 July

Tuesday 6 July 7.30pm

Rafael Bonachela’s newest creation is a thrilling exploration of beauty and devastation. Featuring the Australian String Quartet.

Australia’s favourite comedy convoy is locked, loaded and hitting every corner of the country! Tickle your funny bone this June Long Weekend.

Serving up a great line-up of comedians, with food and drink in equal measures, from its new home in the historic City Hall.

Experience the thrilling Spanish colour of Bizet’s vibrant score. Sung in French with English surtitles. Performed with a Chamber Orchestra.

Dine & Discover NSW Redeem your voucher on any show, or a meal at the Café to complete your experience

civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

4929 1977 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 13

SAVING THE FROGS

14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

New Exhibition Charts Acclaimed Photographer’s Wartime Service A new Lake Macquarie City Council exhibition explores the little-known wartime career of one of Australia’s most celebrated photographers. Max Dupain is perhaps most famous for his documentary-style images of Australian life from the 1930s-1960s, but his years in the RAAF, first at the Rathmines seaplane base and later in Papua New Guinea, proved hugely influential to his career. The exhibition, titled Max Dupain: Art and War, charts this period in the photographer’s life through more than 50 of his images. Lifelong Learning and Engagement Coordinator Jess Dowdell said the images portrayed the Rathmines Catalina base during the peak of WWII when Dupain photographed servicemen in between his shifts designing camouflage for buildings and equipment. “One of the most striking things about these photographs is the way they depict everyday military activities without being forced or posed,” she said. “These images have rarely been seen by the general public and never exhibited locally, so it’s a wonderful opportunity to peek back in time to another era.” Images in the exhibition show Catalinas afloat on Lake Macquarie, under repair by RAAF mechanics and being towed from the water onto the giant concrete aprons that still survive today. One shows acclaimed artist Sir William Dobell, who also worked at the RAAF base painting camouflage during the war. Others are taken from his service in Papua New Guinea, showing RAAF operations and the lives of local tribespeople. The Rathmines RAAF base was the largest seaplane base on Australia’s east coast during WWII, providing vital coastal protection during a period when the nation was under constant threat of invasion and bombardment. The new exhibition opens at 10am Friday 26 March at Rathmines Theatre and will be on display Friday to Sunday 10am–2pm until 28 November. Entry is by gold coin donation.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR YOUR NEXT OUTDOOR ADVENTURE! The biggest show on the Rural Scene calendar is the Hunter Valley Caravan, Camping, 4WD, Fish & Boat Show held in May each year at the Maitland Showground. With over 300 sites and going into its 24th year, this is a fantastic event for both exhibitors and visitors alike. Some of our best memories are made on holidays, and there’s no better way to create these memories than time out on a caravan and camping adventure. The Hunter Valley Outdoor Show has everything you need to start creating these precious memories. Tents, camper trailers, campervans, caravans and motor homes, plus all the accessories – you’ll find it all at the Maitland Showground on Friday 21, Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 May. Enter the draw for your chance to win a 4WD prize to the value of $6,000 kindly donated by Active 4x4. Collect your ticket on the way in, fill out the details and drop it in the entry box at the Active 4x4 site. The winner of this great prize will be drawn at 4pm on Sunday 23 May. With thousands of products on display, you’ll find anything and everything you need for your next outdoor adventure. This is the perfect opportunity to compare a huge range of products and choose what suits your needs. There’ll be an amazing range of caravan and camping accessories, from the essentials to the “I never thought of that” unique products. The accessory ranges available today make

caravanning and camping comfortable, convenient and hassle-free. Free entertainment is one of the many highlights of the Outdoor Show. Get a real fish’s eye view with the Australian Travelling Fishing Show’s giant mobile fish tank. “Cookie” will be demonstrating the many different types of fishing lures on the market, and you’ll get to see an underwater view of how the fish react to them. The Flair Action Bike Riders will be thrilling crowds with a bike show that always delivers a “wheelie” good time. These daredevil riders will really get the pulse rate pumping with their adrenaline-fuelled stunts. You can also enjoy a bumpy ride on the purpose-built 4 Wheel Drive track, courtesy of the Gold Eagle 4WD Club. The Hunter Valley Outdoor Show will have a great variety of food available and plenty of seating throughout the venue to sit and relax. Visit the website www.ruralscene.com.au for exhibitor and product listings as well as discount vouchers or follow them on Facebook for a chance to win free tickets to the show. HUNTER VALLEY CARAVAN, CAMPING, 4WD, FISH & BOAT SHOW DATE 21, 22 & 23 May, 2021 VENUE Maitland Showground, Maitland

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www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

OPEN DAY FOR LEARNING WORDS LIANE MORRIS Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College has announced its first Open Day for 2021. This popular day will be held 25 May from 9 am to 12 noon and is recommended for families who are considering enrolling at the College. The Open Day is an opportunity for families to visit, see and enjoy everything the school has to offer – appreciate the beautiful grounds, admire the historic buildings, meet teachers and students, learn about the curriculum and co-curricular programs and explore the classrooms and facilities. The College is a highly regarded independent, coeducational school that delivers education from Preschool right through to Year 12. Well known for its globally innovative and future-focused education, the College aims to develop curious and self-confident learners through the world acclaimed Deep Learning Curriculum Framework. The aim is to have students who thrive in a rapidly changing world confident in their ability to Communicate, Collaborate, think Critically and Creatively, be of good Character and an engaged Citizen because they have been educated using the Deep Learning approach. Always at the forefront of innovative learning practices, the College has developed two exciting new spaces for students, and the Open Day is the first time these spaces have been open to the public. Over the school holidays, a new flexible learning space for STEM classes was built as well as a new Café for students studying hospitality.

STEM LAB AND HOSPITALITY CAFÉ The layout of the new STEM lab is designed to be highly collaborative, facilitating the tinkering and creating that students love to do in this subject. STEM at Bishop Tyrrell teaches students to solve complex problems

and use design thinking skills. Both primary and secondary students are excited about learning in STEM classes and competitions. “A class might begin with an introductory theory lesson on robotics in one of the contemporary seated learning areas with a range of round table seating options to further facilitate collaboration, and then move to the high benched areas to work on their own coding or robotic project,” said Deputy Principal Ms Tania Lloyd. In addition to the new STEM Lab, a new Café has been built next to the commercial kitchens that service the Hospitality students. Hospitality has become an increasingly popular subject of choice for students at Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College. The new Café is a natural extension to enable students to learn the business aspect of the subject and put their skills to the test. “Now we have the new Café, part of the course will prepare students with real-life learning experiences like the Hospitality Showcase Dinner planned for this term. Students have designed the menu and will prepare all the meals in the Masterchef style hospitality labs, while parents enjoy being waited on in the adjoining new Café,” said Ms Lloyd. “We’re all looking forward to this engaging student project!” In addition to exploring all the facilities and the new flexible learning spaces, the program for the Open Day also includes: • A chance to hear all about the forthcoming Term 4 run of the musical production of Mary Poppins Jr; • Hearing about the Deep Learning Curriculum and what it means for your child’s learning; and • Experiencing the College Tours – Primary and Secondary, and hearing from the students. The Open Day is a wonderful opportunity to visit Bishop Tyrrell Anglican College and experience first-hand all that it can offer students. Beginning at 9 am and including a tour, morning tea, music and creative arts displays, the school will showcase dynamic lessons, co-curricular activities and the experiences on offer to all students and finish up at around 12 noon. To register, visit www.btac.nsw.edu.au/openday

YOUR FUTURE IS OUR PRIORITY Atwea College is currently offering courses to help you find a job, advance your career or learn something just for fun.

Atwea College is registered as COVIDSafe organisation with NSW Government.

You can choose from hundreds of education programs that are being delivered flexibly online and face to face across our campuses.

Enrol or enquire 4925 4200 atwea.edu.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

Live life on the wildside!

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the grounds of the National Zoo and Aquarium, in the centre of Canberra, Jamala Wildlife Lodge oﬀers a variety of opulent safari style suites and bungalows that not only boast sublime African art and décor, but are also surrounded by some of the world’s most magniﬁcent and endangered animals.

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Canberra

Greek Culture, Music and Arts Festival in the Heart of The Hunter! Hope Estate has partnered with the creators of the hugely popular Darling Harbour Greek Festival of Sydney to bring a brand-new Mediterranean experience to the Hunter Valley. On Saturday 22 May, experience Greek Fest in the Hunter – a truly authentic celebration of Greek culture, music, food, and drink presented by Delphi Bank. An incredible full-day line-up of entertainment is planned from 11am–6pm, including national dancing troupes, Greek bands, plus, direct from Greece, the amazing Dimitris Basis, who look set to be the highlight of the day. Enjoy an Ouzo tasting and wine tasting included with every adult General Admission ticket as well as mouth-watering international cuisine, all set to the backdrop of stunning vineyards.

Sweet, honeyed loukoumades, mouth-watering souvlaki, creamy feta, sublime olives, juicy yeeros, savoury spanakopita, and rich Greek coffee will take you on a delicious Mediterranean food journey! A fantastic selection of your favourite food vendors from the Greek Festival of Sydney, including event sponsors Defi II and Big Fat Greek, will offer a wide range of lunch plates to enjoy. If you’re looking for something a bit extra, perhaps treat yourself to one of Hope Estate’s lunch experiences with the VIP Greek Fest Lunch or Hamper Picnic for Two. With demonstrations, a kids zone, boutique markets and a range of Hope Brewery Beers to try, it’s going to be a great day out for all ages! Pamela Proestos, the Director of the Greek Festival of Sydney and representative for the Greek Orthodox Community of NSW said, “We’re so excited to give the people of the Hunter a taste of what Sydneysiders have been enjoying for decades. Being able to offer an event that is so distinctly Greek allows us to promote our food, music and culture to a much wider audience and form a connection between the Sydney and Newcastle communities. We can’t wait to celebrate with wine and ouzo (in moderation!) and see Greek dancing, local musicians and international artist Dimitris Basis on the Hope Estate stage.” Visit www.hopeestate.com.au/greekfesthunter for tickets.

INNOVATIVE LIVING EXHIBITION Links to Region’s History at Newcastle Museum Newcastle’s Indigenous history will be brought to life with a series of native tree plantings designed to create a living interpretation of Newcastle Museum’s exhibitions. The “Living Labels” project will transform four sections of Museum Park into an attractive and educational natural landscape that incorporates trees and shrubs relating directly to objects within the Museum’s collection. The project is supported by funding from Create NSW. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the trees would provide a living connection between the natural landscape and the stories of our past. “This project creates a tangible

GRAB YOUR SKATES

HOCKEY’S BACK FOR 2021! THE NEWCASTLE NORTHSTARS WILL RETURN TO TOPTIER ICE HOCKEY IN 2021, JOINING FELLOW AIHL TEAMS THE SYDNEY ICE DOGS AND THE CBR BRAVE FOR A COVID-SAFE COMPETITION TO BE KNOWN AS THE MICK MCCORMACK CUP, PRESENTED BY THE AIHL. Opening night sees our Northstars back on the ice and taking on Canberra Brave at home (Hunter Ice Skating Stadium, Warners Bay) on Sunday 9 May, and it looks set to be a fiery encounter between the long term rivals. This will be the first of sixteen games for the Northstars, with the final match of the season to be held 22 August in Canberra. All up, there will be eight regular season home games played at Hunter Ice Skating Stadium for the Newcastle squad, consisting of three Saturday night games (start time 5pm) and five Sunday night games (start time 4pm). Two exhibition matches against the Sydney Bears will also be played at home, the first on 5 June, followed by 7 August. Sydney Bears are otherwise unavailable to compete in the McCormack Cup due to circumstances beyond their control. CBR Brave will play out of their regular home in Phillips, ACT, while the Ice Dogs will be based closer than usual, playing from Erina Ice World on the Central Coast. Northstars GM Garry Doré believes the fierce rivalries between the three teams will fuel a gripping competition featuring the best of local talent.

“The McCormack Cup competition will feature the rivalries and action we’ve been missing since the pandemic affected us a year ago in March 2020,” said Doré. “Newcastle has such a great core of local players and veterans that will make us very tough to beat. “The McCormack Cup allows us to continue playing top-tier hockey in front of fans, keeps our players sharp and develops our talent for the expected return of a full AIHL season in 2022.” The Newcastle Rescue Northstars are six times National Champions (winning the AIHL competition in 2003, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2015, and 2016) and have been Grand Finalists a further six times, making them Newcastle's most successful team at a National level. In addition to professional Ice Hockey, Hunter Ice Skating Stadium also offers "Drop-In" Hockey, which is a more social

SHANE FITZSIMMONS, LORD MAYOR NUATALI NELMES, JULIE BAIRD AND PROFESSOR SUE ANNE WARE AT THE OPENING CEREMONY.

link between the Museum’s exhibits and our living world, offering a new way to interpret and understand Newcastle’s geography and history,” Cr Nelmes said. “Creating green open spaces, supporting the local Aboriginal and creative communities and facilitating opportunities for lifelong learning are priorities under City of Newcastle’s Community Strategic Plan, which are being imaginatively brought to life through the Living Labels project.” Materials from the plantings will be harvested periodically for use by the local Aboriginal and creative communities.

form of play for experienced players, getting together weekly for an informal game of Hockey. If you're interested in learning to play this fast and exciting team sport, you can go along to Ice Hockey School on Monday nights. Join skillied instructors from NSA Hockey on the ice from 5:45pm, where participants of all ability levels will learn the skills required to play ice hockey. At each session, beginners will focus on the remedial skills such as skating, backward skating, crossovers, stopping and basic stick handling and puck control. Developing players who have mastered the basics will be invited to move to the "Play the Game" group to tackle more advanced techniques such as shooting, defending, attacking, passing drills and advanced techniques. Ice Hockey School is for all ages and skill levels, male and female. At the end of each ten-week section (based around school terms), players will be appraised on the skills they have acquired. Players deemed to have "passed" Learn to Play will be invited to join a team in the local competition. For Northstars tickets, visit www.northstars.hockey, and for more information about playing hockey, visit www.hiss.com.au/learn-to-play-hockey.html

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19

Check out local artist Tanya Loviz from Loviz Art Gallery’s amazing new piece “Cocktail-In-Fusion” inspired by Hunter Distillery. www.lovizarts.com.au/shop

Come in and try our top shelf spirits through a unique test tube tasting experience! OPEN FOR TASTINGS AND SALES 7 DAYS, 10AM–5PM Bookings Essential

1686 Broke Road, Pokolbin PH (02) 4998 6737 E info@hunterdistillery.com.au

www.hunterdistillery.com.au 20 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Welcome

WHAT’S ON NEWCASTLE

TO YOUR NEW HOME OF EVENTS IN NEWCASTLE

ARE YOU READY TO BE INSPIRED? THE CITY OF NEWCASTLE HAS RECENTLY LAUNCHED A BRAND NEW WHAT'S ON WEBSITE – WHATSON.NEWCASTLE.NSW.GOV.AU What's On is your one-stop-shop for all events in Newcastle and features everything from markets to sporting matches, concerts to festivals, talks to workshops, music to theatre, and a whole lot more! Looking for free events? We've got you covered. Or an event that's family-friendly? No problem – our website lists that too. Scroll through the featured events listed on our home page or select 'all events' to see everything that's happening in Newcastle. To make life easy, you can also search by category, date or venue.

Event organisers are encouraged to submit their events to What's On using the online form. As long as your event meets the event submission guidelines, we are happy to host it. Get your event online and in front of thousands of eyes each month for free! Our 'get inspired' blog features curated content highlighting the many great things happening in Newcastle. This is the place to find inspiration for your weekday or weekend adventures. From recommended itineraries to seasonal activities and more, you'll be spoilt for choice for things to do in and around our city. While you're on the What's On website, don't forget to subscribe to our email newsletter to be kept up to date on all the amazing things happening in our city. So what are you waiting for? Go forth and get inspired!

MOTHER’S DAY HIGH TEA Sunday 9 May, 11.30am, City Hall WARWAR: THE ART OF TORRES STRAIT 29 May until 22 August, Newcastle Art Gallery OUR FORGOTTEN DIVA – AN EVENING TO REMEMBER FLORENCE AUSTRAL 2 June and 14 July, 6pm–7pm. Digital Library DRY TO DRY 4 June until mid-August, Lovett Gallery Newcastle Library IMPERMANENCE BY SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY Wednesday 9 June, 7.30pm, Civic Theatre THE CASTANET CLUB From 11 July, Newcastle Museum

Find out in Newcastle Your new home of great events

whatson.newcastle.nsw.gov.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

JERSEY BOYS Is Coming to Newcastle!

The worldwide phenomenon that is Jersey Boys will debut at the Civic Theatre in Newcastle this October. From the producers of the recent soldout season of CHESS and 2019’s smash hit Mamma Mia, this mega production tells the fascinating story of the rise to fame of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. Casting callbacks were held in Newcastle on 24 April, and Sydney-based director Nicholas Cristo said he was delighted with the exceptional talent on show. “We have unearthed an embarrassment of riches,” said Nicholas. “The search was on for triple threats, and we were presented with a bounty of performers who could deliver on that front. To my surprise, we also had several quadruple threats – instrumentalists who can sing, dance and act – which is a real joy for any director but especially so when working with a production like Jersey Boys.” “The commitment of the auditionees to do justice to the text, period and history of the characters they are hoping to play was impressive. It was obvious they had done their research. “It’s a vocal powerhouse of a show, which moves the head and the heart. In this production, we’re expanding the existing world of the story to show Frankie Valli’s family life, marriage and relationship with his daughters. We’re also taking the opportunity to explore the interesting parallels between the 1950s and today, with the immigrant experience and pressures on individuals and communities to succeed against adversity. “Ultimately, it’s a great night out, with a compelling story woven around incredible chart-topping hits, which were 22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

L–R: RACHEL WILSON (CHOREOGRAPHER), NICHOLAS CHRISTO (DIRECTOR) AND DAN WILSON (MUSICAL DIRECTOR) WITH SOME OF THE AUDITIONEES AT CALLBACKS FOR JERSEY BOYS.

the soundtrack of a generation. It is the ultimate homage to the iconic catalogue of Frankie Valli and the Four seasons,” added Nicholas. Winner of Best Musical at both the Tony Awards® and Olivier Awards, the musical biography that is Jersey Boys tells the secret of a 40-year friendship. Be swept up by the tale of four scrappy young men from New Jersey – Frankie Valli, Bob Gaudio, Nick Massi and Tommy DeVito – who find a magic sound that propels them from singing under streetlights to singing in spotlights all over the world. Set in the 1960's, the show features hit after era-defining hit, including "Oh What a Night", “Sherry”, "Big Girls Don't Cry", "Can't Take My Eyes Off You", "Dawn", "My Eyes Adored You" and "Walk Like a Man”. Despite personal and professional problems threatening to tear the group apart, the quartet consistently find themselves at the top of the charts and, ultimately, receive the highest honour: induction into the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame. The production debuting in Newcastle is brought to you by The Very Popular Theatre Company, and they’ve assembled a stellar creative team. Supporting Nicholas Christo will be Musical Director Dan Wilson, Assistant Director, Krystalle Williamson and Choreographer, Rachel Wilson. Jacob Harwood is head of Technical Design, and Jennifer Ellicott head of Costume Design. The gents will be sporting the schmickest of suits supplied by Newcastle’s own Rundle Tailoring. Jersey Boys will have its Newcastle premier at the magnificent Civic Theatre on Friday 8 October, opening with a VIP Gala Event – complete with a pre-show soiree and post-show party with the cast! It will then run through until Saturday, 23 October. With Mother’s Day coming up next month, Opening Night VIP or Premium Reserve tickets to Jersey Boys would make the perfect gift! The special Early Bird ticketing currently on offer must end 20 May. Tickets on sale now only through Civic Theatre Ticket Office. Visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au, phone (02) 4929 1977 or drop into the ticket office at 375 Hunter Street.

MUSIC

CHEAP TRICK

FOR THE PEOPLE WORDS MEL MURRAY - PSM Publicity With crews already onsite, stages, and infrastructure already in place, Bluesfest was cancelled last month. As an artist, if you were travelling any distance to get to Bluesfest, you booked other gigs around your festival shows. Brisbane went into lockdown for three days. As that happened, artists and crew were notified by the news that thousands of dollars worth of gigs had just disappeared. For some, this was their first work in more than a year. And then it was gone. The ripple effect of that decision has now been felt in Newcastle, with our first international festival since 2019 due to open its gates on May 1. Now, due to the uncertainty, it has been postponed again until 2022. This was a devastating blow to both the promoters and the ticket holders. It’s ironic that music promoters and stakeholders held a meeting to discuss social distancing strategies and capping numbers to a few thousand people in the venue that the week prior had hosted 25,000 people for a football game. It’s an irony not lost on this writer. Perhaps if the lead singer from Cheap Trick pulled on some boots as he took to the stage, he might be allowed to make a living? The statement from the Under the Southern Stars promoters in part reads as follows: “We are as upset about this as you are! The Under the Southern Stars spectacular concert series featuring Cheap Trick, Bush and Stone Temple Pilots has regrettably and unfortunately been postponed. Again. “Given the disappointingly slow roll-out of the vaccine by the Government, there is no confidence that we can keep all safe and proceed as planned at our festivals this May. The continuing mismanagement of the COVID-19 situation at all levels of government has led to numerous inconsistencies and ongoing broken promises by officials that ultimately affect

the safety of our patrons, artists and our crews, both domestic and international. So much so that the situation presents too much to risk to go forward with the dates as planned at the end of April and into May 2021. “The very recent eleventh-hour cancellation of Byron Bay Bluesfest by the NSW government on the eve of the landmark festivals start date over Easter was an incredibly disheartening display of what could happen to our patrons, artists and crews – being left stranded high and dry only moments before one of our events is set to kick off. We wish to protect all and avoid a situation such as this. “To keep all involved as safe as we can and limit the possibility of getting stuck in the middle of further snap lockdowns, border closures and other knee-jerk reactions, we have to move Under The Southern Stars to a time that gives the series its best chance of running smoothly, as planned and ultimately allowing for the best experience possible to all ticket holders. This is not a decision that we have taken lightly, but the safety of all is our motivation.” Under The Southern Stars promoter, Andrew McManus has issued the following statement. “We ask you all to continue to believe in us. We must protect our artists and patrons. We get it... how many times can the Australian system force another postponement? So we are making the hard decision to reschedule Under The Southern Stars to the first quarter of 2022 and ask that all our valued supporters hold on to their tickets. In return, we will be announcing some truly exciting additions to the line-up and festival circuit,” said Under The Southern Stars Promoter, Andrew McManus. “We sincerely apologise for the situation and ask once again for our loyal patrons to #keepyourticket and stay tuned. Not only for new dates, but we are planning on making UTSS bigger and better. It will absolutely be worth the wait.”

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IMAGE: TUMBLEWEED PHOTOGRAPHY

DON'T JUDGE A MAN

By his Mullet! WORDS CHLOE O'SULLIVAN - ON TOUR WITH THE KID

One of my best friends, Laura Johnson, founded Mulletfest. If you don't know what that is, where have you been hiding? It's a globally famous festival that happens every year in Kurri Kurri at the Chelmsford Hotel.

A Month of Practical Workshops Every Parent Must See A FOODIE WORKSHOP TO HELP STRETCH YOUR DOLLAR FURTHER IS ONE OF EIGHT EVENTS LAKE MACQUARIE CITY COUNCIL IS SUPPORTING AS PART OF THIS YEARS. YOU’RE KIDDING ME PROGRAM. Kicking off 6 May, the program features a series of free inperson and online workshops for parents and children. Council’s Community Planner Children and Families Erin Peterson said You’re Kidding Me was an opportunity to showcase practical information to help support local families and create a stronger community post-COVID-19. “The program includes a variety of informative workshops, from cooking, music, children’s emotions and sleeping strategies, to energy and water-saving tips,” Ms Peterson said. “We’ve designed our workshops to be educational as well as fun – parents can come along and learn new skills, ask questions, get advice and involve their kids too.” French for Tuesday, a Lake Mac-based eco-living business, will host a ‘From Pantry to Plate’ introductory talk at Charlestown Library on 7 May, focusing on sustainable meal planning and feeling confident in the kitchen. 24 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

It began for the noblest reason. The town had lost a generational employer and was suffering from an economic downturn and a loss of spirit. The plan was to create a tourist injection and a chance for people to gather together, be each other's support system, and laugh. Mulletfest delivered in spades. Mulletfest has been covered by every national news outlet, by Russia Today, The BBC, Ireland AM, and press outlets worldwide since its creation in 2018. Having been on-site for all four events so far, I can confirm, there has not been one anti-social incident. Groups of people come together to raise money for charity and form the most unlikely of friendships. Having become the national spokesperson for the iconic 80's haircut and even sporting one herself, Laura gets a call at least once a month from media outlets across the country. It's always some version of the same story for comment. Someone has banned the mullet in their pub, school, or other venue and Laura is being asked for comment. The reasoning for the ban is always some version of ‘It looks untidy/it's unhygienic (head lice have often been mentioned as part of this argument); it's not the image we as a school want to portray; it says something about you as a person etc.’ Let's unpack that, shall we? It looks untidy/unhygienic – Steeped in sexism (unless they ask all the girls at the school to have short back and sides to prevent headlice), this is not a real reason. Girls with long hair can be asked to tie their hair back while in uniform, then that request can easily be made of boys with long hair. It's not the image we want to portray – This one makes me laugh, particularly when one of the schools imposing this

rule had been in the news several years prior for the kids at their school doing $100K worth of damage to property during a year 12 muck up day prank. You would think, given that incident, that the school would be more focused on what's in their heads than what is on top of it! On the flipside is Laura's son, who, in year 12, grew his hair into a mullet. He was growing his hair until a specific date and then shaving it as a fundraising opportunity for brain cancer research. He was told by the school that he needed to cut his hair or spend every lunchtime in detention. He said he was happy to spend every lunch break in detention, but he was not taking away a fundraising opportunity for a worthy cause. His passionate argument and dedication had the reverse effect of encouraging staff members to donate to the cause. Which kid is the image you want to portray to the world of a good citizen, of a good human being? School should be the one place that kids can express themselves, develop critical thinking, and make ethical choices. I'm constantly told that private schools have the right to have a dress code, and if you don't like it, don't go there. But the child is not an extension of their parent, they are their own being – they didn't make that choice. I wish we would stop telling kids that being exactly like the rest of the crowd is the only way to succeed. The best people I know are not the people who go along to get along. They are the ones who stand out and stand up. They are the people who change history.

MARDI LEE, PRESENTING ‘FROM PANTRY TO PLATE’ AT YOU'RE KIDDING ME 2021

Founder Mardi Lee said there was much benefit in supporting families and young children to develop a positive and stable base for lifelong learning. “The program brings families together to learn about the type and variety of services in the local area which they may not know about,” Ms Lee said. “This can then help with taking small, actionable steps to create a stronger and healthier family and local community”. Other You’re Kidding Me workshops include a 6 May session at Toronto Library led by occupational therapist Bonnie Berry from Peaceful, Play, Present, who will help parents understand how children’s bodies and brains deal with big emotions and why. Local sleep and settle guru Natalie Ebrill will host two talks on infant and toddler sleep strategies to help parents getting little ones to self-settle and sleep longer. They will run from 11.30am–1pm and 1.30pm–3pm on 17 May at Charlestown Library.

There will be a yoga session on 26 May, led by children’s yoga teacher Clio Badenhorst, and a musical session on 20 May by Julie Logan Music, a regular at previous You’re Kidding Me events. An energy and water-saving workshop, children’s dance session and a talk on the importance of tummy time are also on offer digitally throughout May via Zoom. You’re Kidding Me will run 6–27 May, with bookings essential. For more information, and to book – www.lakemac.com.au

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RESIDENTIAL CARE

SET A WAKEUP CALL & GET YOUR SKIN CHECKED! HAVING NOT HAD A SKIN CHECK IN OVER A DECADE, FORMER PROFESSIONAL SURFER MATT HOY PAID A VISIT TO THE HUNTER MELANOMA FOUNDATION SPOT CHECK CLINIC AND IS THANKFUL HE DID. Before his skin check, Matt did not have any specific spots that he was concerned about. “From a young age, I have always been vigilant about protecting my skin from the sun. I wear a wetsuit when out in the surf and am constantly applying sunscreen, so I wasn’t overly worried before my skin check,” Matt said. During Matt’s skin check, a local doctor from Newcastle Skin Check found two spots on his back that required further examination. With the back being the most common area for melanoma to appear on a male, Matt took no time in booking a follow-up appointment. “The skin check part was easy; however, I did feel pretty anxious after they asked me to follow up as soon as possible to get two spots on my back furthered examined,” Matt said. After the two spots were removed, Matt received the relieving news that they weren’t melanomas. “I regret putting my skin check off for so long, and even though my results turned out to be okay, it certainly was a wake-up call to get my skin checked regularly,” Matt said. Over the 2020/21 Summer season, the Foundation ran its ‘Spot check’ campaign, an initiative that provided the general public and the Surf Lifesaving community with free skin checks. Through the help of local

doctors from Newcastle Skin Check, 723 people received a free skin check. Thirtysix of these skin checks were suspected melanomas, and from those, eight were confirmed melanomas. HMF’s Executive Officer, Claudia Tolhurst said the Spot Check campaign provided the community with more than a free skin check; it encouraged people to change their sun-smart behaviours and take getting their skin checked seriously. “Early intervention of melanoma is so important, yet people put off getting their skin checked. By bringing this service to the community, we were able to provide more than 700 people with free skin checks, some of which were life-saving,” Claudia said. Anthea Burke was one of these lifesaving skin checks. After previously putting off a skin check Anthea went down the HMF Spot Check clinic and, after further testing, was told she had a melanoma. “When I was told the spot on the back of my arm was a melanoma and that it had gone into one of my lymph nodes, I was pretty scared. It really highlights how important it is to not take your body for granted and get your skin checked regularly,” Anthea said. Both Matt and Anthea are thankful that a local charity provided such a vital service to the community. “Initiatives like Spot Check make a real change in our community; that’s why it is important for our local community to support charities like the Hunter Melanoma Foundation to continue the wonderful work they do,” Matt said. The ‘Spot Check’ campaign was made possible through the support of Newcastle Skin Check and grants from Novartis, Club Grants (West’s Group) and Nova Alliance Bank.

PERHAPS IT’S TIME TO GET BACK TO BASICS FOR MANY OF US, THE START OF THE NEW YEAR IS A TIME TO ASSESS OUR HABITS AND LIFESTYLE CHOICES AND THEN SET BIG, AUDACIOUS GOALS TO LOSE WEIGHT, EXERCISE MORE, EAT HEALTHIER AND TAKE MORE TIME FOR OURSELVES. These lofty ambitions to become better versions of ourselves may feel extra-challenging this year after nearly 12 months of altered lifestyles and habits brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. But it doesn’t have to be, with health and fitness experts stating that the trick is to take our thinking back to basics by incorporating a healthy diet, regular exercise, not smoking, eliminating or limiting alcohol consumption and getting sufficient sleep into our daily routine – all the proven cornerstones of a healthy lifestyle.

(Continued next page)F

SPECIAL FOCUS

BEAUTY... HEALTH & WELLBEING

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BEAUTY... HEALTH & WELLBEING

MASSAGE FOR HEALTH & WELLBEING

(Continued) The reasoning is that starting small and addressing the most basic health habits and practices enables us to better establish a longlasting foundation for ourselves on which those bigger goals can eventually be set. To get our physical health back on track, we can start by committing (or re-committing) to a simple exercise regime that happens a few days each week. A good example is doing 30 minutes of cardio for three days every week. Moderate to vigorous exercise such as brisk walking and cycling, for instance, can bring about several positive changes in our immune system. Once we are regularly exercising a few days every week, we can then add another day or extend the timeframe from 30 minutes to one hour. The point is to master the small things before we move on to extreme workouts. Food is another area that is easy to complicate with overly lofty goals or unrealistic expectations. The temptation here is to reach for the nearest diet—keto, paleo, vegan, etc. —and let that guide us through our weight-loss goals. Unfortunately, there are enough studies to indicate that popular diets just don’t work for most of the population. Instead, we should try to address our eating habits by removing certain foods that we would be better off without anyway – these include heavily processed meals, added sugars, unhealthy fats, caffeine, and artificial ingredients. Consider snacking on raw veggies instead of potato chips. At meals, our plate should be made up of half vegetables, one-quarter protein, and onequarter of another item, such as grains or potatoes. There are endless choices nowadays when it comes to making our meals and snacks far healthier while still enjoying the foods we like – and without the need to go paleo. P

WORDS NINEWAYS CHIROPRACTIC MASSAGE IS ONE OF THE OLDEST HEALING THERAPIES USED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. ANCIENT CULTURES INCLUDING THE GREEKS AND CHINESE VALUED THE THERAPEUTIC EFFECT THAT MASSAGE HAD ON AN INDIVIDUAL WHEN TREATING A VARIETY OF HEALTH CONDITIONS. IT IS NO WONDER THAT THE MODERN WORLD HAS EMBRACED THE HEALING QUALITIES OF MASSAGE AND WE NOW FIND THAT MASSAGE IS FORGING ITS WAY INTO MAINSTREAM THERAPY CENTRES WORKING ALONGSIDE OTHER PRACTITIONERS, INCLUDING CHIROPRACTORS. WHAT IS MASSAGE? Massage is often explained as the manipulation of the soft tissue of the body. Massage techniques aid the body, particularly with tension or pain, by using the hands to rub, kneed or tap the soft tissue to enhance a therapeutic response. BENEFITS OF MASSAGE The feeling of relaxation and calm is an initial benefit of massage. Massage releases endorphins (acting as an analgesic) throughout the body. The release of the endorphins allows one to have a sense of calm and well being throughout and following the massage session. Massage plays an important role in the reduction of pain by stimulating the autonomic nervous system assisting in improving the dynamic glide in all soft tissues. Other benefits associated with massage include improved circulation, reduction in muscle tension and an improved supply of oxygen and nutrients to the soft tissue. Furthermore, it expedites the removal of metabolic waste products.

TYPES OF MASSAGE THERAPEUTIC – This form of massage can be stimulating or soothing depending on the needs of the individual. Therapeutic massage concentrates on mobilisation of the soft tissue, allowing for improved circulatory, lymphatic, and neurological functions of the body. REMEDIAL – This form of massage relies on the manipulation of the soft tissues of the body, including muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The therapist will use palpation techniques to source the pain areas and determine the correct treatment for the area needing treatment. SPORT – This form of massage is an adjunct to remedial massage and is usually sports specific. Sports massage uses techniques such as soft tissue release, myofascial release, positional release, as well as neuromuscular techniques such as trigger points. MYOFASCIAL RELEASE TECHNIQUE – Fascia is a thin, strong layer of connective tissue found throughout the entire body, and it provides a framework that supports the internal organs. Tension in the fascial system may cause a change in muscle adaptability, causing a decreased range of movement. In essence, the fascia connects multiple joint complexes and is essential for efficient movement. Knowing which form of massage technique will provide the best results is where our expertise comes in.

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BEAUTY... HEALTH & WELLBEING

CHEEK-TO-CHEEK THEORY

LEADS TO GROUNDBREAKING RESEARCH WORDS Rosemarie Milsom - Alumni, The University of Newcastle GROUNDBREAKING CONCUSSION RESEARCH THAT MAY CHANGE THE WAY ATHLETES THE WORLD OVER PLAY RUGBY IS TAKING PLACE RIGHT HERE IN OUR COMMUNITY. Inside the Sports Concussion Clinic at John Hunter Hospital, pro footballer Timana Tahu, neuropsychologist Associate Professor Andrew Gardner, and biomechanics lecturer Dr Suzi Edwards are driving major innovations in concussion prevention and treatment.

Timana reached out to Andrew in 2017 after he developed a theory – the key to preventing concussions in rugby was transforming the way players tackle. He believed the traditional “cheek to cheek” method of targeting the ball carrier’s pelvic area increased the risk of traumatic head injury. Timana thought the attacker should aim higher, targeting the more forgiving abdominal region. Andrew, an associate professor with the University of Newcastle’s School of Medicine and Public Health, is widely regarded as a trailblazer in his field. He co-leads the concussion research program with Professor Chris Levi. He saw promise in Timana’s theory and Timana himself as a collaborator. In 2018, Timana, Andrew, and Suzi began to pursue scientific evidence through a research project centred on tackling technique. Suzi, a senior biomechanics lecturer, based at the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast campus, had previously been focused on basketball injuries, but she was excited by the possibilities of Timana’s ideas. “Most research looks into how big the head impact is,” Suzi says. “No one has been looking at how you can actually change the tackle technique to make it safer for all. Tackling is where all the injuries occur.” The “cheek to cheek” technique is an integral part of the coaching “bible”, and it is still being taught to children at a grassroots level. Their team of three is now working with the NRL on a review of its coaching manual using an evidencebased approach. “This is where we can have an impact,” says Suzi. The SCC, Australia’s first public health clinic for concussed athletes, is open to athletes aged 12 and over of all abilities and disciplines – from junior teams to

professional players. Timana, Andrew and Suzi’s work there is creating an impact that will be felt across the community. Professor Chris Levi, Director of Clinical Research and Translation at the University of Newcastle, heads up the clinic, which treats athletes with wide-ranging backgrounds, from the University’s quidditch team to NRL players. This work further enhances the research and optimises best practice in the local community. Though their work involves elite players at the highest professional levels of the game, Andrew and Suzi are quick to emphasise their work also has relevance to grassroots sport and will likely play a significant role in shaping protocols and policies. “Techniques and protocols filter down from the professional level to community competition, which is why it is important to educate across all levels, and the elite teams and coaches lead the way,” says Andrew. In recent years, there has been increasing public awareness around sport-related Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a brain disease linked to repetitive head injury. Andrew has developed the “three Rs” approach— recognise, remove, refer—which is being adopted by sporting codes from the community to the elite level. For Timana, this journey has been a personal one. In 2001, while delivering a record-breaking win for the Newcastle Knights, Timana was tackled so hard he lost consciousness.It was the worst concussion of Timana’s impressive 16-year professional football career. “I didn’t want to keep getting concussed,” he says. “I was thinking a lot about my safety.” Together with the University of Newcastle team, he’s committed to pursuing a lasting solution.

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BEAUTY... HEALTH & WELLBEING

Advances in Hip and Knee Replacement Surgery

SWITCH OFF SOCIAL MEDIA & SWITCH ON TO YOUR GP

WORDS DR STUART MACKENZIE www.drstuartmackenzie.com.au Over the 50 years since artificial joint replacement became available, there have been many advancements in technology. What changes have happened in hip and knee replacement technology recently? DIRECT ANTERIOR HIP REPLACEMENT Although the direct anterior approach has been around for a long time, it has become more popular recently as equipment advances have made it somewhat easier to do a hip replacement this way. It has been suggested the direct anterior approach may allow faster recovery from surgery as the surgeon goes between muscles rather than having to split muscles or detach them from the bone. It has also been suggested that this may lead to a lower risk of dislocation of the hip replacement, an uncommon but potentially very serious complication. Direct anterior approach hip replacement is not suitable for all patients, and other approaches are still excellent, very successful ways to perform hip replacement surgery. ROBOTIC-ASSISTED HIP AND KNEE REPLACEMENT Robotic assistance for hip and knee replacement has only been available in Australia for a relatively short time and is still only available at a limited number of hospitals and used by a limited number of surgeons. The surgeon uses the robot during the operation to prepare the bone and position the artificial hip or knee. This allows the surgeon to achieve more accurate positioning of the hip or knee replacement than can be achieved through traditional techniques. Accurate positioning of the joint replacement parts is critical to the success of hip and knee replacement. It may affect how long the hip or knee replacement lasts.

Robotic-assisted surgery is currently available in Newcastle for total hip replacement, total knee replacement and partial knee replacement. PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT Unicompartmental (partial or unicondylar) knee replacement is suitable for some patients where only part of the knee is affected by arthritis. The knee is made up of three compartments: medial, lateral and patellofemoral compartments. In a unicompartmental knee replacement, only the diseased compartment of the knee is replaced, and the remainder of the knee is left untouched. In a partial knee replacement, the incision is smaller, and, unlike total knee replacement, no ligaments have to be removed. Recovery from a partial knee replacement is usually faster than total knee replacement, and knee function may also be better. Partial knee replacement has been around for a long time, with popularity in Australia increasing due to the availability of robotic-assisted surgery. The Australian Joint Replacement Registry has reported that partial knee replacement done using robot assistance is less likely to fail early than a partial knee replacement done without robot assistance.

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling for patients to switch off social media and turn to their GP for vaccine information. The call comes at a time when GPs across Australia are working hard on the twin rollouts of COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. General practice and primary care have now passed the 1 million milestone for COVID-19 vaccinations. “General practice passing the 1 million milestone for COVID-19 vaccinations is a historic achievement. We should be celebrating it and thanking those on the frontline and the patients who’ve come forward and put their hand up to protect themselves and their community,” said RACGP President Dr Karen Price. “However, we know that rapidly circulating misinformation about vaccinations, particularly on social media, remains a serious threat to our community. We can and must all do our bit to fight misinformation about vaccines.” Dr Price says that vaccine hesitancy sees patients in Australia succumbing to diseases we shouldn’t need to deal with in 2021. We have readily available measles vaccines, yet in 2019 some 286 measles cases were notified – nearly three times higher than the previous year. “I strongly encourage patients who are feeling uncertain about vaccinations to turn to their GP. Your GP will give you expert medical advice that’s personalised, according to your unique health history, any current concerns, or medications,” she said. “There’s a lot of misinformation out there, so please don’t hesitate to ask us if you have any concerns. No question is wrong.” Patients can check when they are eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine and see if their usual general practice is delivering COVID-19 vaccinations in the Government’s Vaccine Eligibility Checker, online at https://covid-vaccine.healthdirect.gov.au. Patients should contact their usual general practice about receiving a flu vaccine. Many practices will alert patients when flu vaccines are available, and patients should check their regular clinic’s website. The annual influenza vaccine is recommended for all patients over 6-months to prevent influenza. For those aged over 65, the adjuvanted influenza vaccine, Fluad® Quad, is recommended over the standard influenza vaccine. The influenza vaccine and COVID-19 vaccine should be administered at least 14-days apart, as per advice from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation. The AstraZeneca vaccine should be administered in two doses, with a recommended interval of 12 weeks between doses.

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Ph 02 4963 3393 | mackenzie@hunterboneandjoint.com.au www.drstuartmackenzie.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31

BEAUTY... HEALTH & WELLBEING Boring? Yes, that’s what we call them. And it is a celebration of dental success! Many of these special patients have, in the past, presented with broken mouths. Busted up fillings, decay, leaky fillings, worn teeth, root canal therapies – you name it. They were in search of dental salvation, and we feel privileged that they chose us. We feel privileged to have witnessed the commitment that they made to their dental health and came out triumphant. Not only did these patients achieve stability – they’ve maintained that consistent stability for years – many for decades. So, what is the secret to this dental success? Let me share it with you – I hope you don’t find it boring! COMMITMENT TO A DENTAL PLAN All of these patients had problems. They submitted to an examination and then sat down with me to discuss the treatment plan. When I discuss a treatment plan with a patient – it’s not about “making a sale.” I explain to almost every patient that I’ve got no interest in talking them into or out of treatments. Discussing a plan is about appropriateness. Are the plan’s proposed outcomes in line with the patient’s expectations? Is the plan too complex? Can the plan be phased over a number of years? These are all essential questions that, if answered correctly, will support the outcome.

THE MOST PATIENT

Boring

WORDS ALEX HUSZTI - BelleDental Alex has had a career focused on low-biologic cost reconstructive cosmetic dental care – common sense teeth for life.

EXECUTION OF THE PLAN Many of these patients have proceeded with their dental care, knowing full well that they would have to commit to a number of appointments each year for several years in order to complete the plan. Sometimes, these patients have had to make decisions along the path of the plan because

WE’VE GOT A SAYING THAT WE LIKE TO SHARE WITH A SIGNIFICANT PROPORTION OF OUR PATIENTS. SOME DENTISTS WOULD FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE SHARING SUCH A STATEMENT WITH THEIR PATIENTS. NOT US AT BELLEDENTAL. YOU SEE, WE CELEBRATE OUR MOST BORING PATIENTS.

not all plans work out perfectly. These patients have been consistent in their execution of the plan. REGULAR EXAMINATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL CLEANING OF TEETH This aspect of success is critical. These patients have made a habit of ensuring regular examinations, x-rays and professional cleaning of their teeth. This provides the opportunity to help these patients around education about diet, improving their home care, and managing genetic/ medical factors that may impede successful results. As a dentist, these examinations are vital to my care because I can have a problem with my dental work – the same way any other dentist can have a problem. I am as critical of my own dental treatments as I am of anyone else’s dental treatments. At these examinations – if I find a problem with my dental work, I offer to fix it. It’s not a lifetime guarantee, but many problems caught early are fixed at no charge. It’s about consistent follow up. DEDICATION TO HOME CARE AND DIET If you haven’t worked it out yet - these patients are consistent. They are consistent about their home cleaning programs. They take on advice and education around the improvement of their home care program. Sure, they may “fall off the wagon” from time to time… BUT THEY GET BACK ON. In the same way about diet and lifestyle – these patients endeavour to be consistent around when and what they eat. I don’t always feel confident that patients will accept the status of boring. But I’m surprised at the consistency of their response when, together, we realize that they’ve made the boring grade because – Boring is Good!

3 Techniques That SAVE Your Teeth 1

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Direct Resin Build-ups – All in ONE day! What if you have suffered with erosion... you have already lost much of your tooth structure – the last thing you need is your teeth being CUT AWAY EVEN MORE for crowns. Direct Resin Build-ups are a NO CUT, one day alternative that saves the remaining tooth structure and enhances the cosmetics and function of your teeth. They often require modifications to your bite to accomodate your new smile.

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

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BEAUTY... HEALTH & WELLBEING

sessions like appointments. Better yet, try group training classes, with classes running throughout the morning and into the evening. Write down the times your gym session or class will begin and end in your diary as you would with a professional commitment and make a habit of ticking it off once it’s done. Most people think it’s much easier to find time in their day for fitness when they write it down next to all of their other commitments. And nothing beats the satisfaction of seeing a series of consecutive ticks next to the gym sessions you’ve completed.

HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LOCAL GYM MEMBERSHIP WORDS PLANET FITNESS NEWCASTLE WHILE SIGNING UP FOR A LOCAL GYM MEMBERSHIP CAN DO WONDERS FOR YOUR FITNESS AND WELLBEING, IT’S ALSO A SIGNIFICANT COMMITMENT. HERE, WE’VE PUT TOGETHER A LIST OF TIPS TO MAKE SURE YOU’RE GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR INVESTMENT. SET CLEAR & ACHIEVABLE GOALS When you first sign up for a local gym membership, use this time as a chance to set fitness goals. The best way to make sure these goals stick is to make them as clear and achievable as possible. So, instead of something vague like ‘lose weight’ or something unrealistic like ‘lose 10kg in four weeks’, aim for something like ‘complete three 45-minute gym session per week’. Setting actionable goals will keep you accountable for maintaining progress and making the most of your gym membership. SCHEDULE GYM SESSIONS If you’re struggling to find time to make it to the gym as often as you’d like, we always recommend scheduling gym

GET HELP FROM PERSONAL TRAINERS One thing we hate to see in new members is a tendency to head straight to the treadmill and do nothing else. One of the significant benefits of having a gym membership is being able to access a wide range of gym equipment and incorporate variety into your fitness routine. The most common thing we hear is that people simply don’t know what to do at the gym, and they are too scared to ask because they don’t want to “look stupid.” Trust us; the professionals have heard it all before and are there to help. Planet Fitness offers a FREE 30-minute consultation with a Personal Trainer to all new members who are unsure how to use specific gym equipment and can give you advice on what to use based on your fitness goals. MAKE GYM BUDDIES If you notice someone is going to the gym on similar days and times as you, why not say hi! There’s nothing better than having a few familiar faces to keep you motivated or give you a hand on the weights rack. Planet Fitness has created a

friendly and community-based environment where members can support each other on their fitness journey. You can also bring a friend for free every time you work-out, on the Platinum membership. Motivation loves company! WANTING A LOCAL GYM MEMBERSHIP? If you’re currently looking for a local gym membership, Planet Fitness has been family owned in Newcastle for 27 years. We are proudly Judgement Free and a place where everyone can feel welcome and comfortable. For more information visit www.planetfitnessnewcastle.com.au

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34 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

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The Hunter's reputation as a leader in environmentally responsible housing has once again been confirmed with the recent completion of the Hunter's latest HIA GreenSmart House at Allynbrook by HDR Building Services. This HIA GreenSmart House accreditation was awarded to a home designed and constructed with various energy and water-saving initiatives such as solar passive design, well-designed crossventilation for passive cooling, LED lighting, an energy-efficient hot water system, and a rainwater tank connected to toilets and the washing machine amongst many other sustainable features. The most outstanding feature of the project is that the home achieves a thermal performance rating of double the minimum required in NSW. A BASIX energy

performance of a minimum of 45 was required, with the project scoring 90. “Demonstrating environmental responsibility was important for this project. That’s why we carefully ordered building materials, re-used elements from the former dwelling onsite, and selected environmentally preferable materials and paints,” said Hugues de Rocquigny, Director, HDR Building Services. “We are proud to respond to the consumer demand for not only a well-built home but importantly a sustainable home that is liveable and more comfortable,” Mr de Rocquigny said. For further information and to see other award-winning GreenSmart projects, visit the HIA GreenSmart website at www.hia.com.au/greensmart

See our full range at our large spacious stores! 1 Weakleys Drive, Thornton Ph 4966 0990 4/305 Hillsborough Road, Warners Bay Ph 4953 7373

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WHAT IS WORKPLACE BULLYING? The Fair Work Act 2009 defines workplace bullying where: 1. An individual or group of individuals; 2. Repeatedly behaves unreasonably towards the worker or group of workers; and 3. That behaviour creates a risk to health and safety

MANAGING A BULLY IN YOUR BUSINESS WORDS TAHLIA JENNINGS - Lawyer, Jenkins Legal BULLYING OCCURS IN WORKPLACES ACROSS ALL INDUSTRIES, AND IT IS ESTIMATED TO COST THE ECONOMY UP TO $36 BILLION ANNUALLY (PRODUCTIVITY COMMISSION, 2010). WORKPLACE BULLYING INCREASES EMPLOYEES’ INTENTION TO LEAVE AND ABSENTEEISM RATES WHILST ALSO DECREASING EMPLOYEES’ JOB SATISFACTION AND COMMITMENT (SAFE WORK AUSTRALIA). As an employer, you have a primary duty of care to your workers to provide, so far as is reasonably practicable, a safe work environment, ensuring that they are not exposed to risks to their health and safety. Managing a bully in the workplace can be a complex and stressful experience for management and often creates tension and unease in the workplace. To maintain a positive and productive workplace culture, it is important that bullying complaints are responded to in a timely, professional, and respectful manner.

Since 1784

Bullying can be carried out by one person or by a group of people. In order to be “repeated” behaviour, it must occur more than once. The behaviour does not have to be of the same kind, as it can be a range of behaviours. The behaviour must create a risk to health and safety; in other words, it does not have to result in actual injury, loss or damage. Examples of bullying behaviours include: • Belittling or humiliating comments; • Exclusion from work-related events; and • Unreasonable work expectations.

written evidence to support allegations of bullying. We also recommend that you: 1. Take the complaint seriously; 2. Promptly respond to the complainant and outline the investigation process that will be followed; 3. Give the person accused of the bullying behaviour a full opportunity to respond to the allegation(s); 4. Inform the parties to the complaint of their rights during the investigation process (for example, the right to having a support person present during meetings); 5. Seek external advice from human resources and/or employment lawyers as required, especially if it is likely that disciplinary action is required; and 6. Keep parties informed of the progress of the matter and the outcome of the investigation.

WHAT IS NOT WORKPLACE BULLYING? “Reasonable management action carried out in a reasonable manner” is not bullying. It can be common for employers to receive a bullying complaint by an employee following a performance review issue. To reduce this risk, it is important to follow your business’ performance review policy.

TAKEAWAY MESSAGE If not dealt with properly, workplace bullying can affect the whole culture of the workplace. It is your responsibility as the employer to take bullying complaints seriously and to implement your bullying policy. To minimise the risk of bullying complaints arising from performance management, it is important that you adhere to your performance review policy.

WHEN A COMPLAINT IS MADE If you receive a bullying complaint from a worker, you should follow your workplace bullying policy to ensure that procedural fairness is given to the parties involved. Check that you have all of the required evidence in hand before making any disciplinary decisions against the alleged bully, as employees can be (understandably) reluctant to provide

NEED HELP? If you require assistance with managing a bully in your workplace or resolving a workplace bullying complaint, please contact us on 02 4929 2000 or at office@jenkinslegal.com.au. This article is intended to be informational and is not to be taken to be legal advice or to be relied upon.

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Specialising in artistic restoration and new works, Danish born René Rasmussen has the blacksmith’s skill to restore and recreate the style of yesteryear in many creative and varied forms. When you walk in Rene’s blacksmith shop, you will get the feeling you walk 100 years back in history. Fire in the coal forge, and tools that are 100, even 150 years old. If the tools could talk, you'd have part of the history here.

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www.jenkinslegal.com.au | PH 4929 2000 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37

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

STAR OF THE MONTH TAURUS 21 APRIL – 20 MAY Forget about wanting a quiet life - it won’t happen soon. During the next year, you’re swept along by high drama, with very little time for rest. This turns out to be a mixed blessing. On the one hand, you’re encouraged to do what you do well, and such confidence can only be positive. But having this much licence gives your less responsible side free reign. The trick lies in balancing the two. That means dividing your time more evenly between work and play. The only limiting factor is a potential financial hiccup in September. But as long as you treat others fairly, your affairs should soar.

GEMINI 21 MAY – 21 JUNE A forward-moving Jupiter encourages serious breakthroughs at work. Though right now, you might still be feeling a tad overworked and underpaid, in the next six months, recognition and rewards will follow. Business travel is likely, as is an increased cash flow. The biggest threat, however, seems to be extravagance. As more cash arrives, there seems to be little chance of it accruing interest. CANCER 22 JUNE – 22 JULY With delightful Jupiter settling in your sector of adventure for the next year – you’re encouraged to expand your horizons. You’ve always been curious about the world, but even more so now. From here on, there’s too much happening to keep you still. Even unexpected turns of events won’t faze you. For many, love and work become entwined. And by year’s end, you’re well and truly heading towards serious commitment. LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST The cosmos is generous to most Leos this month. The Sun offers professional support, Mercury brings spontaneity to friendships, and Jupiter showers you with romance. The really good news? For many months to come, love and commitment become entwined. At work, use your unique talents to establish solid groundwork. You’re due a public debut but remember – preparation is the key. VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER Jupiter settles in your love and relationship sector for the next year – with Cupid aiming his intoxicating arrows your way. Set your sights on specific targets if there is any desire or heart you’d love to capture. With so many admirers, you needn’t work hard. A year of wine and roses, perhaps? At work, too, new ideas and projects dominate your mind. For many, this means a step up the career ladder.

38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER Many people believe the more you do, the more you get to do. Over the next year, Jupiter rewards most of your previous efforts. You’ll be super busy, but should the unexpected happen – don’t fight it. You’ve been waiting for something big to happen, and, finally, the cosmos creates substantial new business opportunities. Jupiter also steps up the social pace. What follows could be lasting love or friendship. SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER –21 NOVEMBER With Jupiter settling in your house of decadence, your appetite expands this month - from love to food and everything in between. You want more of everything, and there’s precious little reason why you can’t have it. You’re motivated to find new ideas, to cross new frontiers and taste new pleasures. If skills are lacking, you gain them; if a vital link is missing, it will be found. Romance appears equally fortuitous. SAGITTARIUS 22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER Home and personal concerns monopolise your time this year. For many, recent months have felt lonely, so a sense of belonging becomes important. For singles, the lure to coupledom may be hard to resist; meanwhile, duos rekindle commitment. This year is also about financial growth. Thanks to a well placed Jupiter, expenses are more easily met, and luxuries become more affordable. CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY Jupiter pulls you in the right direction this month. Yet, being stubborn, you could resist its benevolent tug and cling to old ways. Remember, where you simply give an inch, you could gain a mile. Too often, you wait for events to push you into a decision that you should reach on your own. Go on, Capricorn - take a leap of faith. You’ve been set certain karmic goals, which undoubtedly, you’ll reach. AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY Jupiter brings blessings wherever it settles, and for the next year, it’s finances and your hopes and dreams that soar. Whether it’s to fulfil a long-held ambition or start your own business – success beckons. You’re drawn to new, unusual groups and organisations. Of course, some discretion is advised. After all, when Jupiter moves on in a year – you may want to make a quick exit too. PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH Jupiter, the planet of joy and luck, sidles into your own sign for many months to come – cheering you on romantically, financially and spiritually. Jupiter expands whatever it touches, so go big when the situation arises. Soon, there could also be something very special to celebrate. One warning: expansion can also mean excess. Keep your diet and spending under control. ARIES 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL With Jupiter transiting into your sector of the subconscious, you may feel drawn to esoteric subjects. Join a group or find a person who may introduce you to a new philosophy or spiritual outlook. You’re also guided by your dreams and intuition. If and when you truly need help over the next few months, it’s likely to arrive in the form of friends or, perhaps even, angelic sources.

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

THE LAST WORD

14-MONTH-OLD ELIZABETH AND HER MOTHER, SHARON

Happy Birthday RONALD McDONALD HOUSE!

SHARON, ELIZABETH, BEN AND HIS MOTHER, LEANNE

LAST MONTH, RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES (RMHC) NORTHERN NSW CELEBRATED 30 YEARS OF PROVIDING A HOME AWAY FROM HOME FOR FAMILIES AND THEIR SERIOUSLY SICK OR INJURED CHILD. Since the doors of Ronald McDonald House in Newcastle first swung open in April 1991, families with a seriously sick or injured child have found a place to call home during some of their darkest days. CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, Ross Bingham, says Newcastle House provides support and comfort to more than 600 families each year. “Over the last 30 years, tens of thousands of feet have walked the corridors of the House, back and forth from the hospital to the sanctuary of the House and the comfort of their room – day and night,” said Ross. “Doors and arms have been opened, welcoming smiles and words providing calm in the chaos.” Also celebrating his 30th birthday this year is Ben. His family were one of Ronald McDonald House Newcastle’s earliest guests. For Ben’s family, Ronald McDonald House Newcastle has been like a second home. Ben was diagnosed with a brain tumour at just two years of age, and his family were forced to leave their home and community three hours away in New England. Seven years later, Ben’s family came back to Newcastle for urgent treatment when his tumour changed. They once again stayed in the Newcastle House while he underwent surgery. While the family’s stay feels like a lifetime ago, it’s still fresh in their hearts. “Ronald McDonald House Charities came through like family. They supported us when we needed it the most. We will never forget that,” Leanne said. Over the recent months, Ronald McDonald House has also been a home away from home for Elizabeth and her mum Sharon. At just 14 months old, Elizabeth was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. After receiving the devastating

news, the family’s life was uprooted so Elizabeth could get the urgent medical care she needs. Being over five hours away from their family home and with COVID-19 quarantine regulations leaving Sharon on her own without her family network in Brisbane, she faced one of the most challenging times of her life as a parent. “The staff and volunteers at Ronald McDonald House are life-savers. They are my fill-in family who have created a warm, loving and caring environment for Elizabeth and me to come ‘home’ to every day,” says Sharon. RMHC Northern NSW has just one 30th birthday wish, and that is to continue for another 30 years to help families like Ben and Elizabeth’s. “Ronald McDonald House Charities has only been able to continue with the help of families, supporters and generous donors over the past three decades,” Ross said. “This year, we have a few exciting activities planned to help celebrate this milestone with the community and thank them for playing such an important role in keeping our doors open to families during their greatest time of need.” Help make their birthday wishes come true and support Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW by purchasing a Helping Heart online. This heart will go towards much-needed improvements to facilities and allow Ronald McDonald House Charities to continue to offer the services that support the wellbeing of families and sick kids across our region. To purchase a Helping Heart or find other ways to support Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern NSW, head to their website. fundraise.rmhc.org.au/ northern-nsw/nnsw-helping-hearts

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