04 November 2021

thursday 4 november 2021

Puzzles p42 Taste

Cocktail hour

Real estate P28 Judy Sharpe

Preparing for Christmas

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Op-shopping online

A cry for

freedom Afghan refugee’s desperate plea for those left behind

thursday 4 november 2021

contents 04 From the editor

It’s hard to fathom, especially in this current climate, why health is not a priority for our governments.

And, by that, I’m pointing the finger at both state and federal level.

While we’re slowly coming out of a pandemic, COVID-19 is still relevant in this region.

In fact, the Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) presently provides a third of the state’s daily case numbers.

With that in mind, it’s incredible to think HNELHD scaled back its afterhours on-call media service at the weekend.

The organisation’s excuse, it’s moving towards a new “COVID-normal”.

But, we had a total of 106 infections in the HNELHD over the two days, including one death.

Surely, it and NSW Health can provide up-to-date information for those who’d like to know where the “hot spots” are at the moment.

Then, we have the situation where a lack of funding is forcing the closure of Hunter Primary Care’s GP Access After Hours Service at the Calvary Mater Hospital.

Continuous cuts and freezes to Medicare will also diminish the opening times at the remaining four clinics across the region.

It makes you wonder what the NSW and Australian governments’ main concerns really are.

Until next week, keep smiling.

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LEADING THE CHARGE

Newcastle hotel achieves Carbon Neutral certification CELEBRATING WATERWAYS

Local designer launches On A Floating World BRIGHT FUTURE

Wheelchair sports continuing to grow in Newcastle

on the cover Former Afghan journalist Aziza Amwari is sharing her story.

See cover story, page 12. Shot on location at Lambton.

Photo: Peter Stoop

REVS’ INSPIRING PROJECT

Imaginations come to life in charitable colouring book

Regulars

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24 Get your daily news at newcastleweekly.com.au 206/161 Maitland Road, Mayfield NSW 2304 Editorial & Advertising Enquiries T 02 4037 4000 www.newcastleweekly.com.au

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Editor Rod Thompson rod.t@newcastleweekly.com.au Photographer Peter Stoop Founder & Publisher Nick Samaras

@ Newcastle Weekly is a member of the Australian Press Council and abides by its guidelines and policies. Complaints about editorial matter should be emailed to editorial@newcastleweekly.com.au

Published by Newstate Media Newcastle Pty Ltd (ACN 605 328 569). All content © 2017 Newstate Media Newcastle Pty Ltd, all rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without prior written permission. All material sent to Newcastle Weekly Magazine (whether solicited or not) will not be returned. Unless otherwise agreed beforehand, all rights including copyright in such material is assigned to Newstate Media upon receipt and Newstate Media may use or sell such material in perpetuity without further consent or payment. All prices and information are correct at time of printing. For full terms and conditions of competitions contact Newcastle Weekly Magazine on 4037 4000.

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news

Maitland stories captured in painting at new hospital An artwork that captures the stories of Maitland has become the centrepiece of the city’s new state-ofthe-art hospital.

Created by leading artist Peter Poulet, the installation in the foyer was unveiled last week ahead of the site’s opening next year.

To design the piece, Poulet said he spent time in the local community asking what people felt was special about the area and its hospital.

“Some of these stories were about major events in the town’s history like floods where the water level rose to the awnings of the buildings in the main street; others were about the existing hospital’s past and the role it played in people’s lives, like women holding up babies to show to husbands and partners through the window in days gone by,” he said.

“It highlights the important role that doctors and nurses have in this

Director of Maitland Regional Art Gallery Gerry Bobsien, Health Infrastructure’s arts program director Brigette Uren and HNELHD chief executive Michael Di Rienzo at the new hospital.

community, who have cared for people over generations, and will continue to do so in this new state-ofthe-art facility.

“These human stories were turned into abstract images that depict the heart and spirit of the people and this place in a way that makes this artwork uniquely Maitland.”

Health Infrastructure’s arts program director Brigette Uren says the painting will welcome patients, visitors and the community for many years to come.

“The local community will be captivated by this colourful artwork, which will create a vibrant and welcoming space as you enter the new hospital at Metford,” she said.

“The painting is also one of the largest public artworks in the Hunter Valley, giving this world-class health

service a unique and distinctive identity.

“Integrating art, storytelling, dance and music into our health facilities is important, and research proves that the role of the arts in health settings promotes healing and provides a better experience for patients, staff and visitors.”

The entry foyer artwork was commissioned by Health Infrastructure’s Arts in Health program in partnership with Maitland City Council, hospital staff and community representatives.

The new Maitland Hospital is on track to open to patients in 2022.

It will include a chemotherapy service, as well as a new emergency department and expanded surgical theatres, maternity and paediatric services.

- Elizabeth Symington

Holiday Inn Express leading environmental charge Newcastle is now home to the first Australian hotel to achieve Carbon Neutral certification under the NABERS Pathway.

The National Australian Built Environment Rating System, an initiative by the federal government, measures and compares the environmental performance of buildings and tenancies throughout the country.

And, the maiden honour belongs to the Holiday Inn Express Newcastle.

Manager Rob Fahey admitted it was testament to the hotel’s efficient design, operations and management, led by Pro-invest Group.

“Our commitment to ESG and a net zero 2030 target is industryleading,” he said.

“So, this news is a big win not only for Pro-invest, but for the local Newcastle community and the Holiday Inn Express brand.

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“Some of the initiatives that have been embedded into the hotel’s design include strong LED coverage, an energy management system per guest room with occupancy sensors, a light setting program and airconditioning management, coupled with water conservation measures via efficient fittings and fixtures.

“Further, Holiday Inn Express Newcastle has benefited from a detailed energy audit with a range of conservation measures being implemented while also featuring modular carpet – Interface’s Carbon Neutral Floors product – which reduced installation waste.”

With sustainability a core pillar and priority for the asset management and investment firm across their hotels and new developments, Pro-invest Group, together with the support of Ecosave Pty Ltd, started the ground works for the organisation’s carbon net zero journey in 2020.

This followed the group working closely with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC).

It then committed to devising and rolling out a strategy to make the Australian Hospitality Opportunity Fund II Carbon Net Zero by 2030.

It’s now under consideration for Pro-invest Group’s entire estate, too.

With the strong trading of the Holiday Inn Express Newcastle, even during COVID-19 disruptions, the

hotel was selected to trial the policy and obtain the key learnings needed to execute the net zero 2030 target across the firm’s hotel portfolio.

“We are incredibly proud to have been awarded the recognition for our Newcastle property and we look forward to continuing on delivering upon our net zero 2030 strategy,” deputy chair and coCEO Jan Smits said.

- Rod Thompson

Holiday Inn Express Newcastle manager Rob Fahey is proud to be the first Australian hotel to achieve Carbon Neutral certification under the NABERS Pathway. Photo: Peter Stoop

news

Remembrance Day services set to return in 2021 RSL Sub-Branches throughout the Hunter are gearing up this month to host Remembrance Day services again.

Following COVID-19, and the subsequent health restrictions to combat the world-wide pandemic, many ceremonies were placed on hold in 2020.

RSL Sub-Branches in the Hunter will host Remembrance Day services again.

But, 2021 marks the 103rd anniversary of the signing of the Armistice between Allied forces and Germany on 11 November 1918, which ended the First World War. So, it’s a significant milestone.

And, one organisation keen to acknowledge, honour and remember the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our country and those who gave their lives in service to our nation is the Pelican Flat RSL SubBranch.

The local organisation will conduct a Remembrance Day Service at Memorial Park, on the corner of Soldier Road and Piriwal Street, Pelican, on Thursday 11 November.

An invitation is extended to all ex-servicemen, women and

community members to attend the commemorative ceremony, which is scheduled to start at 10.45am.

“As part of the service, a Lone Pine will be planted in Memorial Park by student leaders from the three local schools: Blacksmiths Public, Marks Point Public and Pelican Flat Public,” Pelican Flat RSL Sub-Branch president David Blair said.

“It’ll act as a memorial to our Australian and New Zealand soldiers.

“Also, it represents the bond between the two countries and is a symbol of friendship between Australia, New Zealand and the Turkish people.

“In remembrance of those Australian men and women who served and paid the supreme sacrifice for our nation in

time of war, military conflict, peacemaking and peacekeeping operations.”

Lake Macquarie City mayor Kay Fraser, Shortland federal MP Pat Conroy and Swansea state member Yasmin Catley are expected to be in attendance at the commemoration, too.

For further information on the Pelican Flat RSL Sub-Branch event, contact Mr Blair on 0402 564 429, secretary Jim Sharp on 0416 052 661 or treasurer Don McPherson on 0497 286 556.

More than 3,000 Australian Defence Force personnel are currently deployed on operations overseas and within Australia to defend our national interests in order to advance the country’s security and prosperity.

- Rod Thompson

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Freelance designer and University of Newcastle media lecturer Heath Killen has created a new resource he hopes will inspire Hunter residents to fall in love with their waterways. Photo: Peter Stoop.

Designer explores region’s connection to waterways The iconic history of Newcastle’s harbour, tales of the city’s muchloved hospital by the beach and a closer look at the world of seaweed.

These are just a few snippets of what will feature within the former steel city’s newest online resource.

Launched on 20 October, On A Floating World is a website and events program that focuses on the waterways stretching from Port Stephens to Lake Macquarie, and around the Hunter Valley.

The brainchild of Newcastle designer and publisher Heath Killen, the digital base features oral histories, site visits, descents into the past, as well as stories from locals and specialists around the world.

Combining science, history, art, community, and culture, the project is hoping to foster a deeper connection to our marine ecosystems and contemplate their futures.

“The history of this region is deeply connected to the water, it’s why we’re here in the first place and it’s still integral to our identity,” Mr Killen says.

“There’s no shortage of great stories here, but what really made it feel worthwhile is that this place offers a microcosm for understanding our global relationship with water – a

critical issue for our times.”

On A Floating World kicked off with an interview with local historian Bob Cook.

The 2,500 word transcript offers a glimpse into the history of Newcastle Harbour.

There is much more to come, says Mr Killen.

“This week will see the publication of an interview with Cameron Webb, a scientist who conducts much of his research at Hexham Swamp and has some fascinating insights into mosquitos, as well as urban developments on wetlands,” he says.

Next year, the University of Newcastle lecturer plans to begin a series of public events; including walks, workshops, exhibitions, and screenings.

“The hope is that people will discover something new about the incredible worlds in their own backyards, many of which are overlooked,” he says.

“I want to change not only the way that people think of swamps, which are actually beautiful places and full of life, but even the many different ways that we can engage with popular spots like beaches, beyond surfing and sunbaking.

“These are all good things, but there’s so much more to discover.”

- Rebecca Riddle

Trapped: Are Indian Myna Birds a pest near you?

If Common Myna, also known as Indian Myna, birds are running rampant on your property, Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed may have the solution.

For several years now they have been building traps to help people catch the pests.

“They’re a standard metal style two piece myna bird trap,” president Bob Bull said.

“They have what is called a catching cage and a holding cage.

“They are caught in the first cage and move up into the holding cage until they are disposed of.”

Mr Bull says the need for the traps is “pretty constant”.

“At times we can’t keep up with the demand, particularly in the lead up to the breeding season,” he said.

“Initially our local Port Stephens council was hiring them out but we

were getting asked if our shed could make them and sell them and that’s how we got started.

“We’ve been making them for about 10 years, so quite some time.

“Someone needed to supply these catching cages for the community.”

The Indian Myna is an introduced species of bird that has a black head, chocolate brown body and yellow legs, beak and eye patch.

They are one of the most common species on the Australian eastern coast and pose a risk to other native birds.

During their breeding season, the birds take over nests that would have been occupied by other species like kookaburras and rosellas.

Mr Bull says people have told them their traps are effective.

“We get a lot of feedback from people who have bought the

birdcages and they have been very successful for them,” he said.

“You might go for some time without catching any and then you may get half a dozen quite quickly.”

He adds they have several people at the shed who make the traps.

“We are not the only men’s shed making the traps, if people check with their local men’s shed they might be

making them as well,” Mr Bull said.

“We would have probably eight or 10 people making them at various times.

“We have a big demand for them out here in Port Stephens.”

Anyone interested in purchasing a trap should contact the Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed on 4983 2580.

- Elizabeth Symington

Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed’s Allan Ormerod making one of the traps. Photo: Peter Stoop

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CWA supporting Newcastle and Hunter organisations A worldwide pandemic hasn’t been enough to stop the CWA Newcastle Evening Branch from lending a hand to those who need it most.

The Country Women’s Association (CWA) is one of the largest groups in Australia.

And, it helps to create change

in the community by backing local, state and national causes while also creating a network of support and friendship.

Recently, the Newcastle Evening Branch provided financial support, through its fundraising activities, to a number of deserving Hunter-based

The CWA Newcastle Evening Branch is still lending a hand to those who need it most, with members actively raising funds.

organisations – Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, Mum’s Cottage and Nova for Women – as well as the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia, Father Chris Riley’s Youth off the Streets and the Country Women’s Association Medical Research Fund.

“We always aim to help groups who provide ongoing support to the community,” president Shaleigh Lennox said of the donations.

“It brings our members joy to be able to support the activities of these local organisations, too.”

Sister Helen Anne of Mum’s Cottage, a group which offers companionship and a safe place for mothers and families – as well as parenting and wellbeing initiatives – welcomed the Newcastle Evening Branch’s “gift”.

“It will allow us to provide

additional support for women and families engaged with the program,” she explained.

“We’re extremely ‘grateful’ to organisations like the CWA to enable us to offer community-based support.”

During the past financial year, the Newcastle Evening Branch felt the impact of COVID-19 on its members’ ability to stage fundraising events.

But, it didn’t stop them from finding safe ways to continue their efforts to accumulate funds.

“Although COVID-19 has changed the way the group has previously undertaken fundraising, our dedicated members have been very innovative,” Ms Lennox said.

“They’ve used online systems to support their fundraising endeavours. Our members are very clever and come from a range of diverse backgrounds and ages.”

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NSW Emergency Services Minister David Elliott meets with surf lifesavers at Nobbys SLSC to announce funding for the Hunter/Lower North Coast radio network upgrade.

Radio network upgrade improves beach safety “A key objective of this upgrade is to boost volunteer safety”.

That’s the message from Surf Life Saving NSW president George Shales, who welcomed a new NSW Government windfall last week.

Surf lifesavers will now have state-of-the-art communications systems able to respond sooner in an emergency after a major improvement to the radio network servicing the Hunter and Lower North Coast regions is complete.

The government has provided $800,000 to migrate the 50-year-old radio technology to digital in this important coastal area.

And, the project is the first in a partnership with Resilience NSW and Telco Authority (NSWTA).

The region covers more than 270km of coastline from Camden Haven in the north to Catherine Hill Bay in the south, and includes 19 surf life saving clubs across five LGAs, which are reliant on good communications coverage.

“Some of the busiest beaches in the state are in this popular stretch of coastline,” Mr Shales said.

“Last year there was over 770,000 visitors to the region’s patrolled beaches, volunteers spent 51,000 hours on patrol and successfully responded to 81 major emergency incidents and callouts.

“We are pleased to be able to support this upgrade and

understand the importance of having a robust, resilient and far-reaching radio network to meet the needs of surf life saving now and ensure critical agency interoperability into the future.”

The coastal radio network in NSW is not only relied on by the state’s volunteer lifesavers.

It also provides critical support for many council lifeguard services and marine users.

The project includes relocating or rebuilding 10 radio repeaters in the region and decommissioning old analogue equipment around Forster and Crowdy Head.

Far greater and more reliable coverage will be achieved in key drowning blackspots including Boomerang Beach, Seal Rocks, Catherine Hill Bay and Snapper Point.

When the project is complete in early 2022, Surf Life Saving NSW will have the benefit of a seamless integration of all communications systems, technology and equipment across the state, all visible and controlled from the State Operations Centre in SLSNSW headquarters in Sydney.

“When it comes to saving lives every second counts and clear, reliable communications between our volunteers and other emergency services is vital,” Mr Shales said.

- Rod Thompson

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cover story

I need to raise my voice, says Afghan refugee

Aziza Amwari is sharing her story to raise awareness. Photo: Peter Stoop

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Aziza Amwari knows first-hand how dangerous the Taliban can be.

The widowed mother-of-two, who fled her home in Afghanistan with little more than the clothes on her back, has witnessed atrocities many have only seen in news reports.

Now living in the Newcastle suburb of Jesmond, the former female journalist still harbours fears for those left behind.

She is desperate to hear any news of her 24-year-old son, still trapped in the country that allied forces withdrew from almost 12 weeks ago.

And, aware of the dangers faced by those in the cities, her greatest fears are for the women still trapped in the mountainous area of Hazara.

“I loved culture and artistic activities for women, and I encouraged them to be self-sufficient, but the Taliban threatened to kill me, and I was even persecuted by those around me,” she said.

“My activities were for women.

I got projects from embassies and worked for women [and] I was reporting on women in parliament in Afghanistan.”

And, while she may be small in stature, Aziza is hoping her voice will be large enough to keep Afghanistan in the thoughts and prayers of the international community.

“I’m out of breath and I do not believe that despite the forces of the world organisation, my country has returned to this state 20 years [later],” she said.

“Some of my colleagues who are in contact say they have lost hope in life.

“But, I believe in the miracle of God.” Aziza says the Taliban keeps her name on a blacklist.

After arriving in Australia nine months ago, she remains wary of her associations.

“After the death of my husband, my brother-in-law took my sons by

force from me and I did not see them for years,” she said.

One of my sons is in Afghanistan now. If the Taliban find him, they will kill him.”

Watching Afghanis desperately trying to flee Kabul last month was heartbreaking, Aziza says.

“Afghanistan is a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-religious country, but everyone has the religion of Islam as the foundation of their beliefs, but traditionally, not scientifically,” she said.

“For this reason, everyone is in disagreement and the religion of Islam is being abused and the Taliban group is taking advantage of this situation and committing only treason and crime in the name of religion.

“And, unfortunately, the main blow is inflicted on Afghan women and children.

“Ninety per cent of the people in Afghanistan are now hungry and penniless.”

Aziza says she is desperate to keep the plight of the Afghanis in the world news.

“Only with the help of world powers can we take back our country,” she says.

“I need to raise my voice so the world will keep my country in their prayers.

“Save those whose lives are in danger soon, and give them asylum and help Afghanistan seize power from the Taliban.

“The people of Afghanistan also need immediate financial assistance.”

Aziza Amwari was rescued from Afghanistan by Settlement Services International (SSI), and given a temporary residence in India, before resettling in Newcastle.

She spoke with Newcastle Weekly journalist Rebecca Riddle with the assistance of Newcastlebased translator Azim Rasooli.

news

Future of wheelchair sports ‘exceptionally bright’ With names like Christie Dawes, Kurt Fearnley, Lauren Parker and Rheed McCracken, there is no doubt that Newcastle and the Hunter are home to some of the country’s best Paralympians.

But, what about the region’s lesser-known wheelchair athletes?

Did you know outside of Sydney, Newcastle is one of the most popular areas for wheelchair sports in NSW? “Numbers continue to grow across all of our sports, and we’ve got an incredible community that are promoting what’s on offer here in a great way,” Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT’s Matthew Haines said.

“We have six of our sports currently available in Newcastle which are wheelchair basketball, wheelchair track and road, frame

running, disability lawn bowls, para powerlifting and wheelchair tennis.

“Wheelchair basketball is loved across the entire country, and has the highest participation numbers across our sports, but there is a growing need for other activities in Newcastle as well.

“Next year we are aiming to introduce wheelchair AFL and wheelchair rugby hubs to the region, as well as continuing our Junior Wheelies school holiday program.

“I believe it is going to keep on growing year after year.”

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes believes the future of wheelchair sports in Newcastle is looking bright.

“Having athletes like Christie Dawes and Kurt Fearnley here has

raised the profile significantly in recent years,” she said.

“I think it has an exceptionally bright future and we are only doing more year on year to ensure accessibility around all of our public spaces in our community.”

Paralympian Christie Dawes says Newcastle is a great sporting community to be a part of.

“When I started, we didn’t have any sports here, it has really come a long way,” Dawes said.

“It just makes things easier because it [can be hard] to access the equipment and knowledge you need to succeed.

“Our community is quite big compared to what it used to be.

“Thirty years ago it didn’t exist and now we have a lovely little community to turn to.

“It’s just great that we can

Wheelchair Sports NSW/ACT’s sport coordinator for Northern NSW Matthew Haines with seven-time Paralympian Christie Dawes. Photo: Peter Stoop

support each other in whatever sport we’re doing.”

- Elizabeth Symington

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Welcome to your very own slice of paradise. Elevated above Lake Munmorah this premium release offers picturesque lakefront views. Each home has been architecturally designed and fi nished to a high quality to create beautiful spaces ideal for relaxed living and entertaining.

NOW SELLING STAGE 1 – FORESHORE RELEASE FROM $589,000*.

Belong to a community and discover a new way of living with friendly like-minded people. Access a social calendar of activities, clubhouse, BBQ pavilion and other amenities conveniently close to your new home.

Enjoy the Ingenia difference of a clear fi nancial model with no surprises: pay no exit fees or stamp duty and keep 100% of any capital gains.

THE LAKEFRONT HOMES View this vibrant community today with Jenni on 0458 018 332 or find out more at liveinsunnylakeshores.com.au 2 MACLEAY DR, HALEKULANI *Price is based on owning your home and leasing the land. Pricing is correct at the time of print and subject to change without notice.

Seniors Feature

INGENIA LIFESTYLE Downsizers are staying local with Ingenia Lifestyle Sunnylake Shores reporting nearly 65% of residents moved from within a 50-kilometre radius.

Jenni Spencer, Community Sales Manager at the Halekulani community, said it was common for people to put off downsizing because they cannot find suitable housing in their local area, particularly with water views.

“Downsizers want to be able to free up home equity and enjoy a new, more relaxed lifestyle – by staying local they don’t have to start this chapter of their lives again,” Jenni said.

Learn more about lakefront living at Ingenia Lifestyle Sunnylake Shores.

Call Jenni on 0458 018 332 or go to liveinsunnylakeshores.com.au.

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Dreaming about downsizing?

Get practical tips and expert, up-to-date advice at a free seminar It’s a great time to make your downsizing plans a reality, with record house prices and tax free downsizer superfund contributions, you may have more retirement options available to you than you think. Come to this free seminar and meet Geoff Whiddon, expert financial advisor specialising in retirement and downsizing.

Sponsored by Blueheath at The Bower, the seminar will provide practical tips and no-nonsense explanations to supersize your downsizing journey.

FREE RETIREMENT SEMINAR Blueheath at The Bower, Medowie – Wednesday 10 November Register by 8 Nov at blueheath.com.au for this Covid-safe event

• How to maximise your pension • Exit fees explained • Financial planning for downsizing

0421 888 115 blueheath.com.au

21-PLB-0240

SPONSORED BY BLUEHEATH AT THE BOWER

• Potential tax benefits

Seniors Feature

FRONDITHA CARE When it’s time to get help with living, we live better together.

Fronditha Care’s 66-bed Mayfield aged care community hub has a limited number of wellappointed private, ensuite, rooms available now with many optional extras included as standard.

Book your personal tour today.

Phone Fronditha Care today on 1300 MAYFIELD or visit frondithacare.org.au/better.

A: 30 Crebert Street, Mayfield East W: frondithacare.org.au

Our Life. Our Memories.

OUR HOME. Live Well at Home Care Assistance Personalised care.

Experienced, dependable and consistent care workers

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Holistic approach.

Healthy mind, body and spirit 02 4089 3000 | HomeCareAssistanceNewcastle.com.au support@hcanewcastle.com.au 18

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Seniors Feature BLUEHEATH AT THE BOWER Works on Blueheath at The

livable and include practical touches

Bower, Medowie’s newest seniors’

like soft close kitchen drawers and

development, are progressing well

doors, floor to ceiling tiles in the

with construction of the resort-style

bathroom, and easy access showers,”

clubhouse, accompanied by a wellness

she said.

centre and indoor heated pool now

“However it was also essential to create

underway.

beautiful and elegant homes – a home

Interest in the development has been

to be proud of with custom cabinetry,

extremely high with the majority of

stone benchtops, and contemporary

homes released in stage one almost

colour schemes,” she said.

sold out and deposits being taken on

David Kelly added the stylish home

stage two. Village and Sales Manager

designs with top-quality finishes give

David Kelly says downsizers like the

retirees the opportunity to downsize

proximity to The Bower residential

without compromise.

estate as well as the spacious architect

“Of course, a move to Blueheath isn’t

designed homes and high-quality

just about the bricks and mortar – our

finishes.

magnificent clubhouse, the facilities

Interior designer Angelique Perek,

available and our scenic location

developed the designs for the home

offer the retirement lifestyle many

Contact David today on 0421 888 115 for

A: 34 Western Road, Medowie

interiors.

retirees are seeking in a warm, vibrant

a private tour of the display home and

P: 0421 888 115

“We wanted these homes to be very

community” he said.

village.

W: blueheath.com.au

Live the way you want, Enjoy what you love.

Fronditha Care is a charitable, not-for-profit organisation that has been providing culturally appropriate residential and community aged care services to the elderly since 1977.

The organisation’s Bounty of Care has expanded to regional NSW with the establishment of a 66-bed residential aged care home in Mayfield, Newcastle.

Our industry accolades are an endorsement of our service delivery and our tradition of love and care.

For more information and to book a tour please call:

(02) 4016 4160

email info@fronditha.org or visit: 30 Crebert Street, Mayfield East, NSW, 2304.

@frondithacare @FrondithaCareOfficial

frondithacare.org.au newcastleweekly.com.au

19

Seniors Feature a Caregiver for two years, completing many hours of service and making an incredible impact on the lives of her clients and this is why she was recently announced as the Caregiver of the Year Australia 2021.

“Delivering quality services day in and out for my clients is really important to me,” Samantha says.

“I love making a difference in my clients’ and their families’ lives and I do this by showing respect, compassion and team

HOME CARE ASSISTANCE NEWCASTLE

HOME INSTEAD

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that need it most.”

support needs to be just as unique. We take the time to understand our clients’

Australia’s dedicated aged care workers

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preferences, wishes and dreams. We believe every senior should have access

have worked tirelessly, going above and

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Samantha is a highly valued member

Thomas Street, Belmont

P: 4089 3000

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Alice

Call the Home Instead Ageing Information Centre to organise a no obligation care consultation TODAY!

HomeInstead.com.au | Newcastle | 02 4945 4316 Each Home Instead ® franchise is independently owned and operated. ©M&S Warner 2021.

20

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social scene

Bradey Stair with his children Ziggy (three months) and Holly (four-years-old).

Charlie the dachshund.

Zac Collier, Ellie Cooke.

Novocastrians (and their pets) out and about in the city. Photos Peter Stoop

Valentine group keen to reduce our impact on the environment

VIEW club members looking forward to their next monthly luncheon Hunter VIEW Club will stage its next monthly luncheon meeting at Club Charlestown, Lincoln Street, Charlestown, on Wednesday 24 November from 10am.

Interested ladies are most welcome to attend, while members are looking forward to their first get-together since July. VIEW stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women and is a valued part of The Smith Family. The club currently sponsors several Learning for Life students by assisting with their ongoing education costs.

For more information, contact Suzanne on 0417 230149 or 1hunterview@gmail.com

Share your community event.

Email editorial@newcastleweekly.com.au with ‘HYH’ in the subject field.

Deadline is 10 days prior to Thursday edition date.

The Valentine Sustainable Neighbourhood Group wants to hear your thoughts, your concerns and your challenges on how we can live more sustainably to reduce our impact on the environment. It invites you to come along to a Community Gathering at the Valentine Community Hall, Allambee Place, on Tuesday 23 November from 6pm. Registration is essential, so please express your interest now at vsng2010@gmail.com. More information is available at the Valentine Sustainable Neighbourhood Group Facebook page.

HAVE YOU HEARD? what's on

must do

Recycling 1940’s style at Miss Porter’s House Museum this month Witness what great-grandmother recycled at the next Miss Porter’s House Museum Open Day. Florence, Ella and Hazel Porter made, mended and recycled soap, shoes, furniture, flour bags and much more – all of which will be on display on Sunday 14 November between 1pm and 4pm. Find out how a soap saver works, what an egg has to do with darning and re-live sustainability as practised in the early 20th century. Miss Porter’s House Museum is located at 434 King Street, Newcastle West. Admission: adults $10, concessions $8, family $25, children under 5 free.

must see

Lake Macquarie exhibition showcases works of gifted local society members The Newcastle and Lake Macquarie Art Society will host an exhibition at Belmont City Centre, 45/41 Macquarie Street, from now until 14 November (Monday to Friday 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 9am4pm). This is an exhibition of works by local members of the society all of which are original oils, watercolour, acrylic, pencil pastel and mixed media paintings. Come and have a browse. For further information, contact Karen on 0404 893 855.

All aboard for entertaining cruises on Newcastle's iconic William the Fourth After a three-month lockdown, the volunteer-run harbour cruises have returned. Relax and enjoy morning or afternoon tea on a 90-minute cruise on Newcastle Harbour. Don’t miss out on Sunday 7 November. Tickets are $30 (adult/concession), $20 (children up to 12 years) and $85 family (two adults, two children). Book online at williamthefourth.org or trybooking/com/eventlist/williamthefourth newcastleweekly.com.au

21

time time out out

Mitch Revs during his Zoom call with the Amazon Playmakers and, inset, one of the designs from the colouring book – Emmanual Hanna’s Hungry Hungry Elephant.

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Mitch Revs brings kids’ dream toys to life in ‘inspiring’ project A helping horse that makes sick kids better, a funny ferris wheel, a hungry hungry elephant and Frank the sausage dog.

While that list may seem strange to adults, for Starlight Children’s Foundation’s kids the items are their imaginations come to life.

With the help of Newcastlebased artist Mitch Revs, the youngsters let their creative ideas fly to design their dream toys for a colouring book.

It’s all thanks to a partnership between Revs, Amazon and the foundation.

“I was approached by Amazon to basically have a conversation with the Amazon Playmakers this year,” Revs said.

“They had reviewed the top 100 toys and had the task to sit down with me to then illustrate their most creative idea of a toy.

“I was trying to pull out of them what they enjoy doing on the weekends, their favourite toy, their favourite foods and basically I had to bring their idea to life to turn it into a colouring-in book.”

Revs adds the entire project was incredibly inspiring.

“It was absolutely amazing, I got to chat to 10 different kids, it was just a magical experience,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.

“It was a bit of a different process for me because when I usually work with a client they ask me to bring the ideas to the table but this time I was able to let the kids do the thinking.

“It was more my job just to bring that creative idea to life so it was really, really fun. “[Also], to sit down with these kids, who are actually really quite sick, was very cool and inspiring for me.

“To see them be happy in that moment, that’s what creativity

does, it pulls the best out of people.”

To top it all off Amazon will donate one dollar from every Amazon Playmakers Holiday Colouring book to the Starlight Children’s Foundation along with $40,000 worth of toys, games, crafts and gift cards.

Revs hopes that anyone who purchases the book uses it as a chance to switch off.

“Colouring-in books are a great way to just zone out and take time for yourself,” he explained.

“I guess the world that we live in now days, it is all so fast-paced and digital and kids are on all these digital devices, so you know getting back to our roots and painting or putting pencils on a table and just colouring-in the lines is great.

“They’re the things that we grew up on and it’s a shame that those things are slowly being lost.

“I think it is an incredible thing that these guys are introducing colour back into their lives.”

When it comes to his advice for kids dreaming of becoming an artist, Revs says practice makes perfect.

“I think the biggest thing about creativity is that it can be overwhelming not knowing where to start but the beauty about kids, especially at that age, is their imagination is running wild and they don’t seem to over think the concept,” he said.

“So, putting in the work is the main thing and I mean that, for kids, can just be creating all the time.

“It’s like anything the more you do the better you get at it.”

The Amazon Playmakers Holiday Colouring book goes on sale on Black Friday (26 November).

Go to amazon.com.au/playmakers for more information or to purchase one of the books.

- Elizabeth Symington

time out

What’s on

HOMEGROWN MARKETS: Hosted at Speers Point Park on Sunday 7 November from 10am to 2pm, Homegrown Markets are returning to Lake Macquarie after a hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions. The lakeside event will be following health advice, go to the Homegrown Markets Facebook page for more.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR: The iconic Christmas Lights Spectacular is returning to the Hunter Valley Gardens this Friday (5 November).

With more than three million lights, the gardens are set ot be full of magical displays until 26 January.

Tickets will be available to purchase online only. Go to hvg.com.au for more information.

FREE ART SUNDAY: Maitland Regional Art Gallery hosts Free Art Sundays most weeks (including 7 November) to engage with kids of all ages. Each activity takes about an hour and a half to complete, all materials are provided. Bookings are essential, go to mrag.org.au/whats-on/free-art-sunday/all/ for more.

REDHEAD VIEW CLUB: Meets on the first Wednesday of each month at Central Leagues Club (Bula Street, Charlestown) starting with morning tea at 11am, followed by the meeting, lunch and different activities. The club supports the Learning for Life Program to help Australian school children succeed.

The Christmas Lights Spectacular is returning to Hunter Valley Gardens this week.

Contact Janette on 0411 280 870.

LAKE MACQUARIE OVER 50’S SINGLES GROUP: Meets the first and third Sunday of each month to discuss weekday and weekend activities such as picnics, movies, theatre, concerts, trivia and card nights.

Phone 0412 182 659 or 0437 770 504 for details.

VALENTINE MEN’S PROBUS CLUB: The Valentine Men’s Probus Club is inviting new members to the organisation. It meets on the fourth Monday of the month starting at 10am. Valentine’s logo is “The Young at Heart, Friendly, Fun Club” and we would love you to come along as a guest to one of our meetings. Go to valentineprobus.au2.com for more.

CARDIFF COMBINED PENSIONERS AND SENIOR CITIZENS: Would like to welcome new members for Bingo on Mondays from 9.30am until 1.15pm. They also host carpet bowls on Fridays from 9.30am until noon, as well as cards (Euchre) between 12.30pm and 3pm at 52 Harrison Street, Cardiff. For more information and other activities about the club, contact Roger on 0406 727 455 or email rogerthedodger2@bigpond.com SEND YOUR FREE ENTERTAINMENT LISTINGS FOR WHAT’S ON TO:

editorial@newcastleweekly.com.au Deadline is 10 days prior to publication.

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time out

WIN! Product of the Year hampers Thanks to the team at Product of the Year – Australia’s largest consumer-voted awards program, where more than 5,000 Aussies pick their favourite every day and supermarket products – Newcastle Weekly has three $100 hampers to give away.

Each hamper contains an assortment of some of this year’s winning products including tea, coffee, snacks, pasta, sauces and more.

In 2021, the organisation has seen a large range of major retailers take home top spots in their categories including Coles, Woolworths, Koala, Dilmah, Old El Paso and more!

Product of the Year operates in over 40 countries and is designed to help save shoppers time and money.

For more information, go to productoftheyear.com.au

WIN! A story of hope, friendship and tragedy Starring Emmy award winning actress Jodie Comer and Stephen Graham, Help is a timely story of tragedy, profound friendship and hope.

When Sarah starts a job in a nursing home, to her surprise she is really good at it. She’s a natural with the residents and begins to form a special bond with Tony, who has early onset dementia. The home is underfunded and when the COVID pandemic hits, it suffers from understaffing, sickness and heartbreaking losses.

Her fears turn to Tony, so she sneaks him out of the building. If she can hide him for long enough and prove he isn’t sick, he might stand a chance of being moved out.

Newcastle Weekly has eight copies of Help to give away (valued at $34.95 each).

Enter to win Learn new Online Skills to help you use your Phone or Tablet.

Join us at Club Lambton, 51 Karoola Rd, Lambton.

FREE sessions from Monday 8th Nov- 10:00am.

Phone or Text 0478 219 220 Note: Double Vaccination and Mask required for entry.

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To enter, scan the QR code or visit newcastleweekly.com.au and click on the ‘Entertainment’ tab to ‘Competitions’, find the competition you wish to enter and follow the entry instructions. Entries close 9am Thursday 11 November 2021 and winner drawn same day. One entry per person. Entrants must be aged 18+.

Newcastle Writers Festival returns to 2022 calendar Organisers are hoping it’s a case of third time lucky when the Newcastle Writers Festival returns to the local calendar in 2022.

After two years of disruptions due to COVID-19, and subsequent lockdowns, the popular event will celebrate its 10th anniversary from 1 to 3 April.

More than 100 local and interstate writers, who were included in the recently postponed program in September, are now scheduled to visit Newcastle in less than six months’ time.

Festival director Rosemarie Milsom is confident that high rates of vaccination – especially in NSW –

will enable the 2022 extravaganza to go ahead.

“By April, it will have been three years since our last ‘live’ festival in 2019, which is hard to believe,” she said.

“Navigating the COVID crisis has been stressful and challenging.”

Newcastle Writers Festival was the first major literary festival to adopt online delivery in April 2020 as COVID-19 started to take hold in Australia.

The 2022 program is set to launch on 3 March, with tickets going on sale the following day on 4 March.

- Rod Thompson

taste

Three cocktails in three minutes Wow your guests with your budding mixology talents at your next backyard picnic with these delicious drinks.

Vodka & Italian blood orange

The following measurements are for singular cocktails.

It took Newstate Media's Anja de Rozario (a novice) about one minute to mix each drink.

Fever-Tree Easy Mixing is published by Hachette Australia, RRP $35

50ml of pineapple juice Ginger beer, to top up 1 lime wedge Mint sprigs, to garnish Fill a highball glass with ice cubes, then pour over the vodka and the pineapple juice. Add a couple more ice cubes and top up with the ginger beer. Squeeze over and then drop in the lime wedge. Garnish with mint.

For a slightly more advanced twist: 50ml premium vodka

Scotch highball 50ml Johnnie Walker Black Label Spiced orange ginger ale, to top up Twist of orange peel, to garnish

35ml Vodka 3 tsp Aperol

Italian blood orange soda, to top up

1 lemon wedge, plus a long twist of lemon peel to garnish

Twist of lemon peel, to garnish

Italian blood orange soda, to top up

2 pineapple slices

Simply add the vodka to a copa or wine glass filled with ice cubes. Top up with the soda. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel, and you’re done!

A pinch of salt

For a slightly more advanced twist:

Crush the raspberries in the bottom of your copa or wine glass, then add ice cubes on top. Pour over the vodka and Aperol. Squeeze over the lemon wedge, then discard the shell. Top up with the soda. Garnish with a long twist of lemon peel.

Pineapple mule 50ml premium vodka (Fever Tree recommends Smirnoff for this one)

50ml vodka (Fever Tree recommends Ketel One, I used Raspberry Smirnoff for a sweeter touch)

50ml pineapple juice

Ginger beer, to top up Long pineapple leaf, to garnish Pour the vodka and pineapple juice into an empty cocktail shaker. Add the pineapple slices and a pinch of salt. Top up with ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds, then pour the contents of the shaker into a highball glass. Top up with the ginger beer. Finally, take a long pineapple leaf and slide it down inside the glass to garnish.

4 raspberries

Open for Breakfast and Lunch 7 Days Monday to Wednesday & Friday 8am to 5.30pm.

Thursday 8am to 8pm.

Saturday 8am to 5pm and Sunday 9am to 4pm.

Now Licensed

Pour the whisky into a highball or rocks glass filled with ice cubes. Top up with the ginger ale. Garnish with a twist of orange peel. Easy-peasy.

For a slightly more advanced twist: 35ml Johnnie Walker Black Label 25ml Pedro Ximenez Sherry Spiced orange ginger ale, to top up Twist of orange peel, to garnish Pour the whisky and sherry into a highball glass filled with ice cubes.

Top up with the ginger ale. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Located in Lake Macquarie Square 46 Wilsons Rd, Mount Hutton NSW 2290 | 49484743 newcastleweekly.com.au

25

the look

Salvos Online: op-shop without leaving the house For those who haven’t heard the fabulous news, Salvos has an online op shop as of May last year – although it’s more like an op-megastore, with about 60,000 items listed and 1,700 new items added per day on average.

Although the project has been in the works for a while, Salvation Army spokesperson Wendy Hateley said the website’s launch was fast-tracked because of the pandemic.

“One hundred per cent of profits from any Salvation Army stores are put back into our programs, whether that be for domestic violence refuge, homelessness shelter, food distribution, natural disaster relief, or alcohol and drug rehabilitation,” she said.

“That is where your money is going when you shop from us.”

From Victoria to WA, more than 200 of Salvos physical stores are listing their products online, separating their online presence from other major Australian op shops that mostly stick to listing vintage and valuables.

“So far, we have sold 115,000 items through the online store since its beginnings in May 2020 and have shipped 92,000 orders to customer doorsteps across the nation,” Ms Hateley said.

An avid lover of all things second-hand, Newstate Media fashion and beauty editor Anja de Rozario had to get onboard. After purchasing multiple packages from Salvos stores all around Australia, here are some pros and cons she found of shopping Salvos through the net.

Mixed-pattern skirt and pearl mini-bag, purchased from The Salvos online store.

Photos Kerrie Brewer

CONS

The Salvos launched an online op shop, allowing Aussies to continue to purchase their pre-loved goods during lockdown, including this dress and belt worn by Newstate Media’s Anja de Rozario.

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newcastleweekly.com.au

The search filters could use some work. Salvos Online have made some great developments in the past year, including an array of options to filter by size, style, material, etc.

However, straying outside of the given filters can result in some digging (arguably in true op-shopping manner). If you were to search for a universally-flattering ‘wrap dress’ for example,

the option to filter by size becomes unavailable.

You can still filter for price and condition though, and many of the items listed are brandnew with the tags still on! I also recommend browsing via your laptop, as the website tends to lag on phones. Perhaps an app is on the horizon?

PROS Packaged with gratitude. The Salvos staff mailing items were incredibly kind and grateful for the support during the pandemic. I received multiple hand-written thank you notes, and personal calls to make sure the items got to me okay. The clothes I ordered were well-packaged and clean, and actually smelt better than in physical op shops!

Postage is affordable. Regardless of where in Australia you purchase from, the postage is wonderfully affordable. Regular post is only $5.50, or $7.50 if you want it express. With so many online shopping websites trying to catch us out with shipping prices (you know who you are), reasonable postage must be nodded to.

It’s all there. Everything you love and miss about op-shopping shines through in Salvos Online. There are plenty of curated gems, as well as true op shop prices, and hidden treasures to search for in all the well-known op shop goldmines – Men’s Section, Sleepwear, then brica-brac, amiright?

Recycling is good for all. “If you have five spare bucks and you want to help somebody out, then stick it in a donation tin, but if you need to purchase something with that money, you are better off looking at an op-shop … ,” said Ms Hateley.

“Whoever is purchasing from an op-shop is recycling unwanted belongings, and any form of recycling is good for our environment and our community.”

Visit Salvos online store at salvosstores.com.au

home | in the garden

It’s time to prepare gardens for Christmas Well, here we are in November and, this year, spring has been a mixture of late winter, hot summer and autumn.

The winds are drying, sometimes cold, with little rain to compensate.

Some spring flowers are still blooming, but they are looking shaggy and it is time to prepare beds and pots for summer annuals.

If a colourful Christmas garden is required, you will need to plant almost immediately as you have less than eight weeks to achieve flowers in full bloom.

Take the time to prepare the beds, adding in cow manure and leaving a few days before planting. Then apply Flourish and do so each week until Christmas.

If you run out of time, there will be advanced petunias available and they’ll definitely be in Yuletide colours.

November is great for taller growing bulbs, too.

One of my favourites are hippeastrums; once their large trumpet flowers die off, the bulb

Now in le t Newcas

multiplies. Watsonia are terrific for background planting as they develop into large clumps growing to 120cm tall.

Their strap-like foliage bears even taller flowers spikes in white, pink, salmon and red, which are ideal for cutting for tall vases.

Plants can be divided after the foliage dies in late summer or early autumn.

Often hard to find, I originally obtained mine through The Diggers Club in Victoria.

During November, prune back spring flowering shrubs – cut back diosma lightly, as well as lavender and daisies when the spring flush is over.

Climbing roses that need pruning should be cut back when flowering is finished and fed with Sudden Impact.

Gardeners who mistakenly pruned their climbers in July would have cut off all their flowering wood.

Tomatoes by now could be bearing green fruit – give them a side dressing of a slow-release fertiliser.

IN THE GARDEN JUDY SHARPE

Keep a close watch out for blight or wilt – the first sign of infestation is silvery leaves.

These mites are very small, so try control with a spray suitable for edibles.

When the fruit begins to ripen, watch for fruit fly attack – this can be partly eliminated by painting the tomato stake with a mixture of Malathon and vegemite mixed to a paintable spread.

Gardenias and hibiscus will benefit from an application of cow manure.

If being ground grown, yellowing leaves may require a dose of chelated iron which is applied in the cool of the day.

Did you boost your agapanthus with cow manure at the end of winter?

If not, try a quick solution of sulphate of potash to assist flowering.

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MAXBREEZE

LIMITED WARRANTY

SOLARBRIGHT SKYLIGHTS • Australian designed and built • Triple Lens Diffuser reduces harmful UV Rays • Industry Leading Warranty • Energy Rated Skylight • Unique Raycatcher® Dome For a free onsite quote:

• Reduces heat & moisture build up • Pays for itself • Works day & night (With optional battery pack)

• Latest technology • Australian designed and owned

® Using the sun to keep your home cool

HOW IT WORKS Elevated Temperatures caused by solar heat in roof cavity

temperature up to 70°C

MaxBreeze® constantly changes roof cavity air to avoid heat buildup and to remove humidity from your roof

cooler by up to 40°C

build up of heat radiating into living space

living space is much cooler

BEFORE MAXBREEZE

AFTER MAXBREEZE

Contact our Newcastle & Hunter Valley Consultant

0412 861 162

www.solarbright.com.au newcastleweekly.com.au

27

Real estate

property of the week

R E A L E S TAT E

Black Hill 6 Forsythe Parade

5

Surrounded by an expanse of greenery, this immaculately presented homestead on 2.74 acres uses its substantial proportions to create a wonderful sense of seclusion, just 25 minutes from the centre of Newcastle. With an interior as charming as its exterior, this sprawling single-level residence is perfectly welcoming, creating a true sense of home as soon as you walk through the door. The home draws you in with its period details and there is an abundance of living space, including a formal lounge and dining room, a family room, and a modern kitchen with an informal dining area. Stepping outside, wander the grounds, taking in the extensive sheds, workshop space and stables, before taking time out by the magazine-worthy pool and adjoining BBQ area.

3

Price View Agent Mob

6

1

Contact agent

By Appointment Daniel Irwin 0422 133 066

Altitude Real Estate 4903 8228

CONSTRUCTION STARTS EARLY 2022

Overlooking beautiful Port Stephens, apartments boast large open plan living areas opening out onto generous balconies to create beautiful and functional spaces, many with stunning views. Feature quality appliances and premium kitchen and bathroom fixtures and fittings throughout. Nelson Bay town centre is right at your door with a plethora of cafes, bars, restaurants, boutique shopping, services and d’Albora Marina.

28

newcastleweekly.com.au

56 Apartments • Architect designed • 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments • 2 and 3 bedroom penthouses

Little Beach, Shoal Bay and Dutchies Beach

Salamander Bay

Can all be easily accessed via footpaths and cycleways.

30 minutes

10 minutes

Newcastle Airport Newcastle CBD 60 minutes

This is an incredible opportunity to secure your part of the blue water paradise of Port Stephens. For further information including a comprehensive list of inclusions and floor plans, contact Graeme Schmarr 0413 001 009 or Jason Brennan 0419 691 377 angelinaapartments.com.au LJ Hooker Nelson Bay 4984 2400 projects.nelsonbay@ljhooker.com.au nelsonbay.ljhooker.com.au

Nelson Bay

VIDA6987a

Situated right in the heart of Nelson Bay, Angelina Apartments will offer the discerning buyer luxury lifestyle living in a coastal village atmosphere.

4 SHE OAK CLOSE WINDELLA Live a Semi-Rural Lifestyle.

Quality Family Homestead

The Building Blocks

Price Range

•

Established four-bedroom semi-rural retreat

BED

4

Price Guide $1,350,000

•

1.7 acres of land with a gleaming inground pool

BATH

2

•

Formal and informal living plus a large games room

CAR

5

•

Ducted a/c, double garage plus machinery shed

VIEW Saturday 6th November 10:00am - 10:30am

LAND SIZE altituderealestate.com.au

6981m2

ROSEANNE GAUT

CARL DAVIS

M: 0414 431 221

M: 0423 814 623

P: 4903 8228

P: 4903 8228

63 PASADENA CRESCENT MACQUARIE HILLS Perfectly Renovated Feel-Good Home.

Light, Bright and Ready-to-Love

The Building Blocks

•

Renovated 3-bed home, elevated to catch views

BED

3

•

Sunny lounge room plus open-plan island kitchen

BATH

1

•

On-trend bathroom, welcoming alfresco space

CAR

1

•

Lawned area, single garage, handyman’s workshop

INTERNAL SIZE

166m2

LAND SIZE

524m2

altituderealestate.com.au

Price Range $750,000 - $800,000 VIEW

By Appointment

ALISON BRATBY M: 0411 295 991

TROY REEVES M: 0409 849 278

P: 4903 8228

P: 4903 8228

7 PEGASUS ROAD CAMERON PARK Modern and Easy Family Living.

Minimal Maintenance

The Building Blocks

•

Quality built 4 bed 2 bath family home

BED

4

•

Open plan living plus a versatile lounge

BATH

2

•

Stone-topped kitchen, auto double garage

CAR

2

•

Just over 1km from Cameron Park Plaza

LAND SIZE altituderealestate.com.au

1721m2

Price Range Price Guide $780,000 VIEW

By Appointment

REBECCA PEARSON M: 0433 136 164

JULIE BEATTIE M: 0409 654 275

P: 4903 8228

P: 4903 8228

23 HILL STREET

BELMONT

Laidback Lakeside Living.

Fantastic Potential

The Building Blocks

•

Single level, spacious layout, corner block

BED

3

•

Great bones with potential to add a level (STCA)

BATH

3

•

Three bedrooms, three bathrooms, sparkling pool

CAR

4

•

Moments to the lake, beach, shops, cafes, schools

Price Range $840,000 - $890,000 VIEW Saturday 6th November 10:00am - 10:30am

LAND SIZE altituderealestate.com.au

571m2

JULIE BEATTIE M: 0409 654 275

REBECCA PEARSON M: 0433 136 164

P: 4903 8228

P: 4903 8228

23 FREDERICK STREET DUDLEY Double Block in Beachside Location.

Redevelop or Reside

The Building Blocks

•

Auction on-site Saturday 20th November 10:30am

BED

2

•

Elevated block with endless possibilities STCA

BATH

1

•

Minutes to Dudley Beach, potential ocean views

•

Quaint cottage, tidy kitchen and bathroom, sunroom

•

Current rent return $450 per week

Price Range Price Guide $1,250,000 VIEW Saturday 6th November 10:00am - 10:30am DAVID AYLIFFE

LAND SIZE altituderealestate.com.au

613m2

M: 0412 498 128 P: 4903 8228

2 MIMOSA AVE CHARLESTOWN Tranquil Oasis, Neatly Presented.

Close to Charlestown

The Building Blocks

•

Backing onto reserve, on a quiet cul-de-sac

BED

3

•

Spacious layout with lounge, dining, rumpus

BATH

2

•

Sunny balcony and covered entertaining area

CAR

1

•

Minutes from shops, restaurants, nature, beaches

INTERNAL SIZE

194m2

LAND SIZE

524m2

altituderealestate.com.au

Price Range $850,000 - $900,000 VIEW

By Appointment

ALISON BRATBY M: 0411 295 991

TROY REEVES M: 0409 849 278

P: 4903 8228

P: 4903 8228

222-224 COAL POINT ROAD COAL POINT Expansive Double Block.

Lakeside Living

The Building Blocks

•

Lush outlook, elevated parcel, minutes from lake

BED

3

•

Spacious split-level home, possible fourth bedroom

BATH

3

•

Three living areas, gourmet kitchen, inground pool

CAR

3

•

Potential to add granny flat (STCA)

Price Range Contact Agent VIEW Saturday 6th November 11:30am - 12:00pm

LAND SIZE altituderealestate.com.au

2396m2

DAVID WESTERMAN M: 0428 482 767

BRONWYN IRELAND M: 0413 485 282

P: 4903 8228

P: 4903 8228

With Lake Macquaries most exciting dynamic duo on your side, not only will you get the very best, you will also get the very best result!

“Spin to Win” this Spring and go into the draw to score yourself a cheeky prize!

Call your local award wining team today and see just how good they really are!

4972 1876

AUCTION

1-15/2 Intrepid Close Nelson Bay

Choice of 14 Units – Martys at Little Beach You can now purchase one or more of these popular units known as Marty’s at little beach, they have been strata titled and are being sold individually.

1 x 1 Bedroom 1 x Dual key (2 bed, 2 Bath) 11x 2 Bedroom 1 x 2 Storey 2 bedroom & office All units fully furnished, air con with a resort style pool.

Situated between Shoal Bay Beach and Little Beach and just a short walk to the boat ramp & cafes.

All information contained herein is gathered from sources we consider to be reliable. However, we cannot guarantee or give any warranty about the information provided. Interested parties must solely rely on their own enquiries.

2

1

1

Auction unless sold prior View Saturday 11:00am – 11:30am Agent Jason Brennan 0419 691 377 Sally Edwards 0411 129 278 nelsonbay.ljhooker.com.au LJ Hooker Nelson Bay 02 4984 2400

$42,888

2018 AUDI A4 SLINE WAGON DWT 79L

$21,888 2013 RENAULT MEGANE 265 TROPHY CQF 39F

$21,888

2016 RENAULT KOLEOS 4X4 DHY 92E

$21,888 2011 MINI COOPER S ROADSTER AUTO

2019 NISSAN X TRAIL 7 SEATS TBA 123

$38,888

2017 AUDI Q2 DESIGN EOB 29D

$28,888

2018 TOYOTA COROLLA HYBRID EOW 64B

$21,888 2011 BMW X5 4.0 DIESEL WAGON ECB 24J

$19,888 2018 HOLDEN TRAX

$17,888 2011 VW GOLF GTI HATCH AUTO

$12,888 2015 RENAULT CLIO AUTO

$11,888 2008 VW GOLF GTI AUTO

YBA 75H

CZN 95E

CEN 67N

BFS 792U

NW06697AA

COH 07D

$29,888

www.thegoodcargarage.com.au

0467 665 537

Lic No. MD050916

play playunlimited unlimitedpuzzles puzzles online online canberraweekly.com.au/puzzles newcastleweekly.com.au/puzzles

brain busters 1. Which is smaller: a proton, electron or neutron?

5

father plays Victor Kiriakis on The Young and the Restless?

5 1 2

7. The flag of which country consists of a red circle on a green background?

8. In 1977, who was posthumously awarded the US Presidential Medal of Freedom?

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

13 16 18 19 20 21 22 25

Offensive odour (6) unfavourable (7) Own (7) A precious stone (4) Exercises (10) Mistakenly (2,5) instruction (7) Plastic unit containing audio or visual tape (8) Linen (10) Spanish headscarf (8) Distant (7) Hub for military planes (7) Quarantine (7) Forbidden (7) Ally (6) Singles (4)

42

newcastleweekly.com.au

No. 1480

Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com

We can cater for all services with catering options available on-site.

Locations at East Maitland, Cessnock & Kurri Kurri

No. 1479

3 8 1 2 9 5 7 6 4

super sudoku

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

5 2 7 4 6 3 9 1 8

DiFFicuLTy RATiNG 

Skin on the head (5) commonsensical (9) Roof’s projecting edge (5) Power cells (9) collusive syndicate (6) Nullify (8) informal bulletin (10) capture (3) Melody (3) Sorcerers (10) Soon (8) Serious (uS) (6) Large powerful sea monster (9) Sun-dried brick (5) Speaks to (9) Finished (5)

6 4 9 1 8 7 5 3 2

4

1 4 9 10 11 12 14 15 17 19 23 24 26 27 28 29

Solutions

DOWN

8 3 5 9 1 6 4 2 7

5

ACROSS

No. 3778

7 6 4 5 2 8 3 9 1

1 7

crossword

0411

9 1 2 3 7 4 8 5 6

5

5 9 3

does SWAT stand for?

4 9 8 6 5 2 1 7 3

4

6

1

1 7 6 8 3 9 2 4 5

9

10. In law and enforcement, what

2 5 3 7 4 1 6 8 9

2

9 1 4 8 6 3 5 2 7

3

of the Ancient World is the only one to have survived to the present day?

3 8 2 7 4 5 9 1 6

9 7

9. Which of the Seven Wonders

5 7 6 9 2 1 8 4 3

No. 1480

6. True or false: Jennifer Aniston’s

6 5 3 2 1 7 4 9 8

4

night sky?

7 4 1 6 8 9 3 5 2

6

runs the local Kwik-E-Mart?

5. What is the brightest star in the

DiFFicuLTy RATiNG 

9 6 8 3

4. Which character in The Simpsons

2 9 8 5 3 4 7 6 1

7

their legendary Monogram Canvas in 1896?

8 6 7 4 9 2 1 3 5

No. 1479

3

1 4 8

1 2 9 3 5 8 6 7 4

3 2 4 1 7 6 5

6 2 8 2

5 3 6 2 9 1 1 8

4 3 5 1 7 6 2 8 9

3 2 5 7 4

Brain busters: 1. Electron 2. Saturn 3. Louis Vuitton 4. Apu Nahasapeemapetilon 5. Sirius 6. False (He’s on Days of Our Lives) 7. Bangladesh 8. Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr 9. The Great Pyramids of Giza 10. Special Weapons and Tactics

8

2. Janus is a moon of which planet?

3. Which fashion company launched

Ask us how by contacting our friendly team today on our 24/7 Care Line 4991 5556.

celebrity birthday

DELTA GOODREM 9 November 1984

4 november – 10 november 2021 With patSY bennett www.patsybennett.com For personal readings, contact patsy through her website to make an appointment, or call 0448 808 333.

Facebook: facebook.com/patsybennettpsychicastrology instagram: instagram.com/patsybennettastrology

Delta will be undergoing considerable changes in her status, likely due to developments in her business and/or personal partnerships. She may reveal a new look soon. There is also a strong focus on healing and practical ways to remain healthy during these times. She has a great deal of creative focus right now that will produce wonderful work. Her family and those close to her bring support to her endeavours.

scorpio oct 24 – nov 22

AquArius jan 21 – Feb 19

TAurus apr 21 – MaY 21

LEo jul 23 – auG 23

Friday’s Scorpio new moon supermoon signifies a fresh start. current developments are precursors to more change next year. Your passionate side will come out now and, while you’ll enjoy being proactive, ensure you look before you leap into new circumstances, as you may be inclined to make rash decisions.

the sun, Mercury and Mars at the zenith of your chart will bring a need for passion and purpose into your activities. You may be surprised by news towards Friday. be tactful and avoid stubbornness for the best outcome. You’ll appreciate the opportunity to mix with like-minded people this weekend.

Get set to turn a corner in your personal life or at work. a change in routine may be unexpected but will bring you into contact with upbeat people. just avoid misunderstandings early next week. You’ll enjoy a get-together this weekend and, if you’re working, you’re likely to be busy.

You’ll enjoy being more sociable and stepping into fresh territory. You may even be surprised by some of the people you meet. You will feel more passionate and focused about some of your plans and projects. combine motivation with solid research to avoid making rash decisions and mistakes.

sAgiTTArius nov 23 – dec 21

piscEs Feb 20 – Mar 20

gEmini MaY 22 – june 21

virgo auG 24 – Sept 23

developments may surprise you, so think on your feet. this weekend, you’ll enjoy a reunion and the chance to socialise and network. a change of routine will add a degree of the unexpected into your daily life, which you will manage well, though you must avoid being overly controlling of circumstances.

the way you share assets, finances and duties is about to change and your loyalties, direction and possibly even career or status will transform as a result. a shared situation may present you with a difficult choice, so ensure you get all the details and avoid seeing life through rose-coloured glasses.

be enterprising, as a project could take off if you initiate it now. You’ll enjoy a more creative and upbeat phase and the chance to socialise and to take part in activities you love, especially this weekend. You may need to agree on a fresh understanding, so be tactful.

Friday’s new moon supermoon brings the chance to recalibrate your spending habits and the way you manage shared areas such as space at home and duties. this is also a good time to focus on rethinking your daily work schedule. You’ll enjoy a visit or a change of environment or at home this weekend.

cApricorn dec 22 – jan 20

AriEs Mar 21 – apr 20

cAncEr june 22 – julY 22

LibrA Sept 24 – oct 23

a fresh chapter is in the making in your status, general direction and, for some, with family and organisations. venus in your sign will bring love and money into focus. You may experience more of both over the coming weeks. this weekend, you’ll enjoy a reunion or the chance to revisit an old haunt.

Friday’s new moon supermoon brings a fresh business or personal partnership.

You may change the way you share duties, space at home or finances. You may also experience a different work schedule. aim for an ideal outcome, even if you must negotiate or alter your plans.

Friday’s new moon supermoon will spotlight domestic matters. an unexpected development will merit a careful but proactive approach, especially for july crabs. and june crabs will enjoy a trip or visit. obtain all the details you need to make wellinformed decisions or you risk taking impulsive action.

be prepared to turn a corner in your personal life. Someone may surprise and you’ll best manage an unpredictable situation by being reasonable, well-organised and practical. this weekend, you’ll enjoy a visit, trip or get-together. be patient and you’ll gain more certainty in your daily life or regarding health.

Get your furniture looking NEW again

NW2824

Hansbuilt will restore your furniture back to it’s original glory or even better!!

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

Why buy imported Chinese lounges, dining chairs etc when you can restore your quality built Australian furniture in modern décor that will look fantastic and easily outlast anything sold in retail stores today.

Call the experts today… newcastleweekly.com.au

43

Trades & Services Guide INDEX

ANTENNAS

Builders

44

Collectables

44

Computer Repairs

45

Concreting

45

Decks

45

Doors

45

Electrical

45

Gardening

45

Guttering

45

Gyprocking

45

Handyman

45

Home Maintenance

45

Lawn Mowing

45

Locksmiths

45

Painting

46

Plumbing & Gasfitting

46

Pressure Cleaning

46

Roofing

46

Rubbish Removals

46

Tiling

46

Tree Services

46

• • • • •

Free Quotes • 25 years experience • pensioner discounts • all areas

Call ALAN WRIGHT 0412 782 202

• Supply • Installation • Servicing

FREE QUOTES PLEASE CALL TROY 0414997639 EMAIL TROYSBATHROOMS@HOTMAIL.COM BUILDERS D + J MILLER CONSTRUCTIONS *NEW HOMES extensions renovations *Maintenance *all aspects of building

• Plans to Council • Gable Carports • Awnings • Screen Enclosures • Glass Rooms • Decks • Deal directly with the Builder/Owner Lic No. 162879c

newcastleweekly.com.au

B.L.N.179648C

Extensions Renovations Decks Servicing Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

M 0423 523 315 Email anruca@bigpond.com

TAP AND TOILET REPAIRS

Free Quotes

Jordan

COLLECTABLES

0420 991 235 NW0085-V2

tiptoptaps.com.au

Lic.273 174c ABN: 32 62 92 47 669

BOOK YOUR SPACE

Call Julie on 0413 017 353 or email Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

No job too big or small!

FREE quotes!

Honest + reliable service!

Phone Daryl 0400 117 867 OR 4920 7526

Phone Matt: 4971 6762 0414 941 922

Call 0409 854 388

Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

HUNTER BUILDING AND BATHROOMS RENOVATIONS

Licence No: 167510c

ABN 27697651570 Artick:AU46521

Call Julie on 0413 017 353 or email

0422 622 264

• Full bathroom renovation from start to finish • Small renovations, decks and patios

Servicing Newcastle and Lake Mac region

To get your business listed

nathan@nathanbrownbuilding.com.au Lic no. 202694C

AWNINGS

REFRIGERATION & AIR CONDITIONING

FREE QUOTE

Call Nathan today for an obligation free quote

huntervalleyantennaservice.com.au

NW0273

Air conditioning:

• BATHROOM RENOVATIONS • Commercial or Residential • Renovations & Extensions • Fully Licenced and Insured • Decks and Pergolas • Personal service & reliability

Digital Antenna Installations & Repairs Poor Reception Area Specialist Digital TV Fault Detection External Outlets All Work Guaranteed

NW0467

44

NW0013

Bathroom Renovations

ANTENNA SERVICE

COINS Buying & Selling Australian + World: Coins, Notes, Stamps & Medals

Penny Lane Market Place

Call Danny on 0401 068 616 Or Suzanne on 0401 656 145

Book your advert on 0413 017 353

NW0449

44

NBB Nathan Brown Building

Lic 297378C

Awnings

HUNTER VALLEY

NW0726

44

NW0997

44

Antennas

BATHROOM RENOVATIONS

NW00532AA

Air Conditioning/Heating

AIR CONDITIONING/HEATING

44

Contact 0413 017 353 Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

Contact 0413 017 353 Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

Trades & Services Guide COMPUTER REPAIRS

ELECTRICAL

HANDYMAN

Computer Problems?

Licenced Electrician Quality Work Guaranteed Pensioner Discounts

Dan’s Mobile Computer Service > Computer Repairs & Upgrades > Computer Tuition > Friendly & Affordable Help

Over 30 years experience No job to small Free no obligation quote

• No job to big or too small • Residential and Commercial • Specialising in Home sale Preparation

“Reliable & On-Time”

0421 750 216

Jeff Alexander

ph. 0448 980 180 or 02 4945 1465 jeffreywalexander@hotmail.com

HOME MAINTENANCE

CONCRETING

GARDENING

PRO-CONCRETING

JACKS ALL THINGS GARDENING AND LANDSCAPING

0410 312 247

proconcrete@hotmail.com

Jack 0427 807 930

DECKS

GUTTERING

LAWN MOWING

CARDIFF GUTTERING SPECIALIST

LAWN-MOWING

• Repairs or renewal • Leaf & Bird Proofing • Gutter Cleaning • Stormwater drainage Lic L10548

jack_shaz@bigpond.com

Insured & Reliable

• Roof replacements • Leak repairs • No job too small • Free quotes - pensioner rates

Call Green Goat:

Call Terry 4954 0309 or 0414 540 309

NW0062

Mick Dunley

NW0985

No job too big or too small - Service & quality guaranteed - Free Quotes 44 years experience - Servicing Lake Macquarie & Newcastle areas

NW0504

• Large garden clean-ups • Green waste taken away • Truck and Dingo available to cart or shift soil, or both • Honest, reliable, old fashioned service • Turf laying • 10% Pensioner Rebate where applicable

D R I V E W AY S P E C I A L I S T - A L L A S P E C T S O F C O N C R E T I N G • STAMPED • STENCILLED • COLOURED • PLAIN EXPOSED AGG • SLABS • PATIOS • POOL SURROUNDS • RESURFACING

LOCKSMITHS

GYPROCKING

Qualified in all aspects of

GYPROCK AND PLASTERING

NW1100

MG PLASTERING – NO JOB TOO SMALL – Patch-up specialists.

DOORS

PHONE MICK 0419 977 039 Lic 251316c

GYPROCKING Sliding Door, Window & Wardrobe Repairs Sliding Door, Window & Wardrobe Repairs

02 4023 7547 02 4023 7547

www.justsliders.com.au www.justsliders.com.au

• • • •

New Work Renovations Pre Paint Repairs Small jobs

Call Bill 0401 624 029

0426 811 970

Pensioner discounts

Lock and Shield Locksmiths Servicing Newcastle and Lake Macquarie James Murphy-May | Locksmith

0432 611 558 info@lockandshieldlocksmiths.com.au www.lockandshieldlocksmiths.com.au Master Lic: 000106645

NW00530AA

NW0070

Daniel Curran - Senior Technician info@danscomputers.com.au www.danscomputers.com.au

Lic No: 132271C

NW0088

Alexander Handyman Services

We Come To You!

BOOK YOUR SPACE

Call Julie on 0413 017 353 or email Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

LIC NO. 77284C

ALL WORK GUARANTEED • FREE QUOTES • ALL AREAS newcastleweekly.com.au

45

Contact 0413 017 353 Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

Trades & Services Guide PRESSURE CLEANING

TILING

Over 30 Years Painting Experience

For FREE QUOTE Call Gary 0455111597

Highly Decorated Painting Services

NW0085-V2

NW0058

Keith Minton

experience

ALL AREAS Also available Colouring & Resealing

OR

ROOFING

TREE SERVICES

RIGHT AS RAIN ROOFING

---------- Palm & Hedge Trimming Specialist ----------

BTS TREE SERVICES

Prompt • Pristine • Professional

Lic no 112440c

NW0253

Big or small, we do it all!

PLUMBING

Phone Terry Slupik - All areas

4954 0309 • 0414 540 309

0421 321 458 0416 152 422

Plumber • Drainer • Gasfitter Water saver specialists • Taps • Toilets

Dave Knight Mob: 0418 686 472

To get your business listed

call 0413 017 353 newcastleweekly.com.au

FREE

www.oziwi.com.au

QU O TES

• Free prompt no obligation quotes • Fully Insured • Site cleaned • Reliable service • Hedge Trimming • Wood chipping • Pensioner rebates • Stump grinding

Neil: 4945 8923 or 0438 506 949 Mark: 0424 275 386

BOOK YOUR SPACE

RUBBISH REMOVALS

Call Julie on 0413 017 353 or email Julie.h@newcastleweekly.com.au

RUBBISH REMOVAL

NW competition winners

EMAIL: oziwiroofi ng@gmail.com

Lic No: 261305C

•All areas •All kinds of rubbish •7 Day Service •All removed •Prompt Reliable Service •In Business 26 years NW0132

ALL AREAS Ph/Fax: 4958 1658 Pensioner discounts Lic No. L3569 No job too big or small

Tree Lopping specialists

• METAL ROOFING SPECIALIST • FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED • NEW GUTTERING INSTALLATION • QUALITY BLUESCOPE STEEL • PROFESSIONAL SERVICE • CUSTOM FOLDED FLASHINGS • LEAF PROTECTION

PHONE BRICE OR MANDY

Dave Knights Plumbing Services

LTITUDE

Rebedding and Pointing work Box Gutters and Flashings Chimney removals Valley Replacements Whirlybirds Installed

Lic. No. 73493C

24 Hour Service

Licence No L13318

• • • • •

A

benny57@bigpond.net.au

By Licensed Tradesman with over 45 years experience on Tile and Metal Roofing

Dennis 0412 453 317

Newcastle

• Blocked Drains • Hot Water Systems • Water Jetter • Drain Camera • Maintenance • Renovations • Diagnostic Expert

Mobile: 0408 681 866 Phone Ian: 4948 6551

My License is your guarantee of a QUALITY JOB

0413 753 883

Hot Water Systems | Gas and Electric

46

REPAIRS

Call Alan

NW0341

Cherry Plumbing

ROOF

NW0063

Lic L10548

PLUMBING GAS GUTTERING UNBLOCK SEWERS/STORM WATER DRAINS ALL TYPES OF HOT WATER SYSTEMS REPLACED

Service guaranteed Ph Shane 4959 6091 Mob 0410 564 044

The winners in our latest round of competition draws are:

FREE QUOTES!

0412 510 111 or 4933 5280

Milky Lane voucher Rachael Tiplady Games pack Suzanne Ruby Flanagan, Valeria Maggiacomo

Book your advert on 0413 017 353

NW1400-V8

CARDIFF

40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE NO JOB TOO SMALL OR LARGE

NW0923

PLUMBING & GASFITTING

• All roof repairs & renewal

• No job too big or small • Quality tradesman

NW1363

ABN 55757066216 Work up to $5000

NW1293

Email: HighlyDecorated@yahoo.com Website: highlydecoratedpainting.com

• Stump service • Free quotes • Pensioner discounts • Fully insured • All tree work & pruning • Arborist • Prompt reliable service

E HUNTER

Interior + exterior painting + decorating

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NW0054

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Serving TH

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TILING

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PAINTING

FAMILY Life can always get busy but finding balance is always key. Relaxing with my kids is important with Friday movie nights a weekly fixture and highlight.

Photo Kurt Sneddon

MATES

My favourite things

Dan Wilson

My family love me unconditionally, but my mates are pretty rad. Mates have your back. Mates don’t judge. Mates hang out. Mates might give you a hard time, but underneath the ribbing they rather like you and wouldn’t let you down.

TRAVEL I love our country and all it has to offer, but something always draws me to the culture, history and arts life of overseas. New York, London, Boston, Vienna and Florence are my top five cities I’ve visited and I can’t wait to go back sometime.

MUSIC

Star Struck Music Director

Dan Wilson is currently the Head Teacher of Creative & Performing Arts at Lambton High School and the 2021 ARIA nominated musical director of Star Struck at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Growing up he began playing the piano at age 12 and ventured into singing on the side also. This lead to, in his 20s, playing in the original Australian productions of The Lion King, Beauty and The Beast and Phantom of the Opera in Sydney. In his 30s he started working on projects, arranging music for John Foreman, Silvie Paladino, Debra Bryne, Marina Prior and local choir The Hunter Singers. Now, in his 40s, he’s often found musical directing for The Very Popular Theatre Company and their sell out shows of Mamma Mia, Chess and the upcoming Jersey Boys as well regular shows at Lizotte’s. The ARIA Nominee now needs Newcastle votes to win the award, go to aria.com.au/vote

For the past 30 years music has been part of my life whether it’s listening, playing, or enjoying the music of others. No matter what environment I’m in music usually plays a part and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

WATER As much as I can, I try and swim in the water whether it’s getting in and doing some laps, going to the beach or just going for a walk around the lake. It calms me and makes me realise how lucky we are to live where we live! newcastleweekly.com.au

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