PETER SLEAP
From the editor
It’s hard to believe the Newcastle Weekly is celebrating its second anniversary, under new ownership, in August.
The past two years have flown by, with our website and social media accounts enjoying a huge increase on both platforms.
For that, I’d like to thank everyone for their continued support.
But, one thing I’m most proud of is the partnerships we’ve formed with several organisations throughout the Hunter.
It’s terrific to join forces with local groups, from Star Struck to the Newcastle Jets – to name a couple, for the benefit of the community.
Which leads me to another collaborative effort, our alliance with the fabulous Sleapy’s Foundation.
The brainchild of Peter and Robynn Sleap, the charity – chaired by Dave Fleming – is preparing to unveil a number of new initiatives to help people, young and old, dealing with cancer and adversity. They mightn’t have the profile of other not-for-profits in the region, however their work is just as important.
So, if you can get to Townson Oval for Sleapy’s Day, I’m sure it would be greatly appreciated.
Until next month, keep smiling.
EDITOR Rod Thompson JOURNALISTS
Rebecca Riddle & Nicole Shelley
PUBLISHER Nicole Shelley DESIGN & MARKETING Sarah Wells & pepperit Pty Ltd
COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Peter Stoop
ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP
Nicole Shelley and Sarah Wells T. 02 4003 4448 advertise@newcastleweekly.com.au
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Meryl Swanson MP - Federal Member for Paterson
Delivering for Paterson
75,000 tax payers in Paterson will receive an average tax cut of $1,500
15,190 persons with HELP debt in Paterson will benefit from HECS-HELP system becoming fairer
10,895 households in Paterson wil benefit from the 15% increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance
$249.5 Million in infrastructure spending in Paterson electorate
Newcastle
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NW owner Nicole Shelley leaps into lofty WRHS fundraiser
She plunged into the media landscape two years ago.
And, this month, Nicole Shelley is gearing up to attack another exciting new challenge.
The owner of the Newcastle Weekly and Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine will join 17 other fearless mentors as they abseil down the face of McDonald Jones Stadium for the annual Leaders Leap on Friday 16 August to raise money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service (WRHS).
The group – including Stephen Galilee (NSW Minerals Council), Justin Peterkin (Ashton Coal), Drew Brazaitis (Komatsu Mining Technology), Alex Brennan (Business Hunter), Jennifer Short (Coal Services), Tim Browne (Dantia), Victoria Aspden (Ampcontrol), Patrick Howard (First National Real Estate), Sam Vidler, Mitchell Jones, Stephen Hunt (Hunt Hospitality), Nick Couper
(HunterNet Career Connections), Tammy Curphey, Jason Hoffman (Newcastle Jets), Lauren Kempe (NBN), David Woods (Active Accounting) and Clint Newton (Rugby League Players Association) – collectively hopes to enable the organisation to change outcomes in the community every day.
The event, launched in 2018, is also an opportunity for participants to reflect on the vital work of the WRHS crew, who regularly winch people to safety from the bush, ocean and hard to access locations.
Nicole admitted she was ready to push her fear to one side… for a good cause.
“My dad (Bruce) is the reason I’ve put my hand up to do this year’s Leaders Leap,” she said.
“That’s despite the fact that I’m absolutely terrified of heights.
“For all his working life, as an underground coal miner up the valley, he donated to
the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service through workplace giving.
“It’s something I remember mum and dad always talking about from a young age.
“The WRHS is part of the Newcastle fabric and giving back to the community is something, which comes hand-in-hand for both my publications Newcastle Weekly and Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine.
“And, for my daughter Blake, all I can do is to raise as much money as possible to support the next generation having access to this free and vital service.
“So, if anyone can spare a few dollars, I would be very grateful.” •
The owner of the Newcastle Weekly and Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle Magazine Nicole Shelley with her daughter Blake ahead of the Leaders Leap fundraiser for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.
Lake Macquarie home to state’s first bulk modular housing program
Lake Macquarie will soon become home to the state’s first modular social homes as part of a $10 million plan to help ease NSW’s burgeoning housing crisis.
The premises are set to be built using Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) aimed at delivering more homes sooner. There are four sites in Lake Macquarie
that will host five permanent modular social structures.
The homes will be built using prefabrication, off-site manufacturing methods, including 3D printing, robotics and artificial intelligence (AI).
It is expected they’ll be delivered 20% faster than traditional buildings.
Modular housing has not previously been used at scale in NSW.
But, the project will help deliver on the NSW Government’s $224 million Essential Housing Package promise, announced in the NSW State Budget for the 2023/24 financial year.
A procurement process for the delivery of these homes has begun, with completion expected by early 2025.
Homes NSW is currently working with industry on the use of architecturally designed MMC permanent homes that are compliant with the National Construction Code and Building Sustainability Index (BASIX).
“Housing affordability and availability is the single biggest pressure facing the people of New South Wales,” says NSW Premier Chris Minns.
“We are pulling every lever we can to tackle the housing crisis.” •
Phone:
Maitland Vale chef wins Newy cook-off
Twenty-one-year-old Muse Restaurant chef Ashleigh Handsaker is a young person with a tasty future.
From her Pokolbin workplace kitchen, the talented Maitland Vale woman has been making a name for herself delighting both locals and visitors to the Hunter Valley.
Recently, her culinary skills saw her named Newcastle’s cook-off winner in the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award.
Staged at the TAFE NSW Hamilton campus, this is Australia’s longest-running competition for emerging chefs.
Now in its 59th year, it has provided a springboard for more than 8,000 young professionals to advance their careers.
At the Newcastle event, competitors were asked to plan and prepare a main course and dessert within two-and-a-half hours using ingredients from a supplied pantry.
Ashleigh prepared a roast chicken with Swiss brown mushrooms, Buondi coffee cream, pepper berry pangratatto, poached leeks, Swiss chard salad and MAGGI jus gras.
For dessert, she plated up a set chocolate cream with rosella poached rhubarb, rhubarb sherry gel, and white chocolate and macadamia nut crumb with fresh thyme.
Her efforts earned her the highest score, progressing her to the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award Grand Final at Melbourne’s Fine Food Australia Expo in September.
From here, the 12 finalists will go head-tohead over two heats for their chance to be crowned the 2024 Nestlé Golden Chef of the Year.
The winner will receive a grand prize valued at $10,000, including an all-expensespaid trip to the Worldchefs’ Congress in Singapore.
“I entered the Nestlé Golden Chef’s Hat Award as it is a great opportunity to push yourself and your skills,” Ashleigh says.
“It encourages you to do something new and creative and show who you are as a chef.
“Competing has been a great step
forward in my career and equipped me with the valuable tools I need in my current role at Muse.”
Australian Culinary Federation president for NSW, ACT and Regions Julio Azzarello said all of this year’s Newcastle participants should be extremely proud.
“It was an exceptional display of the local area’s culinary talent,” he stated.
“We were especially bowled over by Ashleigh’s dishes.
“Both her main and her dessert were well balanced, and beautifully executed.” •
As Wallsend marks the 150th anniversary of being declared a municipality, City of Newcastle has committed to a major investment in its future.
The area is a vibrant home to a unique and close-knit community, emerging as a multicultural hub that attracts young families from all over the world, with the population rising by more than 20% in the past decade.
City of Newcastle funding will go towards road and bridge upgrades to alleviate traffic congestion, create safer and more accessible cycling and pedestrian pathways, and enhance flood mitigation measures to bolster resilience to storm events. These investments will help to deliver a safer, more attractive place to visit, shop, dine, and meet with friends.
NUATALI NELMES
Newcastle Lord Mayor
$50 million investment to safeguard future of Wallsend
City of Newcastle will invest more than $50 million into Wallsend over the next five years as part of a long-term vision to upgrade roads, reduce flood risks and create safer, more connected active transport links.
"These upgrades in Wallsend will benefit both businesses and residents.”
The multi-year program of significant investments will provide a host of benefits includingimproving traffic flow through road upgrades and widening Minmi Road, flood mitigation, new footpaths and improved public amenity.
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the projects will enhance key community infrastructure in the heart of the growing western suburbs.
"We are committed to delivering projects that not only benefit the community now but also pave the way for future progress as our city continues to grow," Cr Nelmes said.
"Our long-term plans recognise the needs of this booming population centre and reinforce our commitment to maintaining and enhancing its essential community infrastructure.
"These upgrades in Wallsend will benefit both businesses and residents."
Other highlights of the program include bridge renewal projects at Boscawen, Cowper and Nelson streets, complemented by the ongoing rehabilitation of Ironbark Creek. •
SATURDAY 17 AUGUST 1-6 PM
Councillor Deahnna Richardson, Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, Acting CEO David Clarke, Councillor Elizabeth Adamczyk, Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen and City of Newcastle staff at the site of the new roundabout, which is one of the projects being delivered in Wallsend during the five-year, $50 million program of work.
CLAY TON BARR, MP
If you live in the State Electorate of Cessnock as your State representative, issues I may be able to help with include:
Phone: 4991 1466
Email: cessnock@parliament.nsw.gov.au
Office: 118 Vincent Street, Cessnock NSW 2325
Website: www.claytonbarr.com.au
Psoriasis Clinical Trial
Novatrials are seeking volunteers with mild to moderate Chronic Plaque Psoriasis to participate in a trial of a skin gel applied to the psoriasis plaques for 16 weeks.
You may be eligible for the trial if you are:
Aged over 18 years
Diagnosed with Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Can attend 9 appointments at our Kotara clinic over approximately 6 months.
Participants receive study medication and studyrelated care from a dedicated medical team at no cost and also receive $100 per visit for travel expenses. For further information visit novatrials.com.au or call 02 4089 3745 or email paula@novatrials.com.au
FRIDAY 6 TO SUNDAY 8 SEPTEMBER 2024
Friday 6 September
Twilight Tales
Saturday 7 September
Spotlights and Stars
Sunday 8 September
Our Bushland Festival at Poppethead Park, Kitchener
www.cessnock.nsw.gov.au/OurBushlandFestival
Kurri Kurri unveils a new-look CBD
Kurri Kurri’s capacity to host more major events has been amplified following the unveiling of its new-look town centre and Col Brown Rotary Park.
And, the multi-million-dollar rejuvenation of the precinct received a tick of approval from residents and elected officials alike.
Cessnock City mayor Jay Suvaal, his predecessor Bob Pynsent, Paterson MP Meryl Swanson, Cessnock MP Clayton Barr, Ward D councillors Rosa Grine and Mitchell Hill, along with members of Mr Brown’s family, were on hand for the official opening.
The work comprised two transformative projects. The Lang Street development featured an upgrade of the commercial centre public domain, landscaping, footpaths and paving, pedestrian crossings, street furniture, lighting, line marking, tree planting and signage.
That was supported by more than $3.6 million from the NSW Government, almost $3 million from Cessnock City Council and $800,000 from the Australian Government
under the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program.
Along with council contributions, enhancements to the Col Brown Rotary Park – including the development of a public transport hub with shelter and lighting, upgrades to public amenities, landscaping, and new paving and footpaths – were made possible thanks to nearly $1.33 million in grant funds from the NSW Government.
“As Kurri Kurri enters a period of renewal and growth, it’s exciting to see this evolution reflected in the successful delivery of this major construction project,” Cr Suvaal said.
“I would really like to thank all the local businesses for their patience and cooperation during the construction period.
“These things are never easy.
“But, everyone worked together for a terrific outcome.” •
Club lodges DA for major changes
The Cessnock community could welcome a new-look multimillion-dollar Leagues Club, with significantly-enhanced facilities, by as soon as 2026.
Cessnock Hospitality Group (the Group) has lodged a Development Application (DA) with Cessnock City Council for a major renovation of the Darwin Street premises.
The proposal comprises an increase in the club’s seating capacity from 700 to almost 1,400; the addition of more than 1,700 square meters of outdoor space; a considerable expansion to the dining facilities, including the addition of a restaurant to accommodate the relocation of the organisation’s Vincent Street Kitchen + Bar operations; a new children’s playground; a refurbishment of the bars and gaming areas; a further 58 car parking spaces; and improved employment opportunities for local hospitality workers.
Cessnock Hospitality Group CEO Paul Cousins said the project would transform
the venue into a modern and vibrant destination for entertainment, dining and socialising.
“The proposed redevelopment of Cessnock Leagues Club is the result of extensive demographic and market research,” he explained.
“It highlighted the significant growth coming to Cessnock and the surrounding
suburbs over the next decade or more.
“That population boost is expected to create strong demand for quality hospitality and leisure services in the region.
“So, this project will provide expanded services and facilities to cater for the growing needs and expectations of members and the wider Cessnock community.”
WEARER OF MANY HATS
KRYSTAL SELLARS
Like my imaginary big sister Amy Poehler, I love a good sports cry. I cried when the Newcastle Knights won their premierships; when the Matildas won the quarter-final shootout at last year’s Women’s World Cup, and many times in between.
But, there’s no greater emotional rollercoaster than quadrennial global sporting fiesta that is the Olympic Games.
Exhibit A: Scrolling back through my Facebook feed to the Tokyo Olympics, I’d posted ‘Now I can cross “cried about steeplechase” off my 2021 bingo card’. The Australian athlete Genevieve Gregson had torn her Achilles in the 3000m steeplechase. And it was her birthday! So you can only imagine how I felt discovering Gregson will return to the Olympics this year - in the MARATHON. Now I’m crying again.
There’s no greater emotional rollercoaster than…the Olympics.
I know I’m not the only person who feels like this. As British historian Thomas Dixon wrote in 2016, “watching sport often goes hand-inhand with a good cry”. Dixon, who has also published a book about the history of weeping (which I’ve immediately added to my must-read list), compares the spectacle of modern sport to that of sermons or stage tragedies that moved our ancestors to tears.
So set your alarms, grab some snacks, a warm blanket and a box of tissues – the Paris 2024 Olympics are here!
And, if you feel like getting out and about after a couple of weeks on the couch, here are a few events to add to your calendar:
• Kurri Curry & Arts Festival, Col Brown Rotary Park, 17 and 18 August. It’s being touted as a ‘culinary and creative extravaganza’, with art workshops, entertainment and of course – curry!
• Our Bushland Festival, 6-8 September. Now in its third year, the Our Bushland Festival will run over three days, kicking off with a movie night at Hunter Valley Visitor Information Centre on the Friday, followed by a spotlighting event on the Saturday night and culminating in the festival at the beautiful Poppethead Park, Kitchener on the Sunday, with bush walks, animal displays, markets, music and more!
• Cessnock Women Connect’s women’s health and wellbeing expo, which has been rescheduled to Sunday 8 September. There will be a great variety of stalls, presentations and demonstrations from local health and wellbeing providers – the perfect way to launch your spring health kick! •
Newcastle to Perth direct flights, who’s keen to step up?
Idon’t know if I still have “Made in WA” written across my forehead, or whether my West Australian passport is still up to date, but news that my new home city could be offering a direct flight back to my old hometown is exciting news.
After months of speculation about whether Newcastle Airport could or would accommodate direct flights from Newcastle to Perth, it seems its marketing department is already doing the groundwork.
Earlier this month, the Williamtown aviation hub launched a campaign canvassing support for its idea.
Newcastle Airport followers were contacted via email and social media… and asked to complete a survey indicating whether they’d support a direct route to the sandgroper state.
Heck, the social media post even featured a cute quokka to convince those who might still be undecided.
Staring straight down the camera looking totally Instagram-able, the Rottnest Island resident literally beckoned its audience to “Say G’day to WA”.
The survey reiterated that ‘Your opinion matters!’ and that Newcastle Airport was “working closely with our airline partners to secure a direct-to-Perth route”.
“We know our community is ready to fly direct to Perth, so we’re asking your assistance. Help us demonstrate our region’s enthusiasm and demand for this route by completing a short survey. Your feedback is invaluable.”
They were even throwing in the chance to win one of five $100 GiftPay vouchers, valid at over 100 leading retailers, to sweeten the deal.
Questions include the likelihood of travelling to WA in the next 12 months, reasons for visiting WA, whether passengers would use a direct flight between Newcastle and Perth, and whether passengers would be prepared to fly overnight to Perth.
There was even the hint of linking with flights from Perth to Europe.
In less than one week, the survey had received 4,500 responses.
The outcome is yet to be revealed, but the social media comments, as always, are entertaining.
While some recall being asked the same question 20 years ago, others took the opportunity to remind the airport media team that direct flights between Newcastle and Launceston were “still coming”.
And, still more added their own destination of choice.
Overall, most would be happy to skip that extra step in Sydney if it was offered.
But again, it may come down to cost.
With the demise of Bonza still fresh in our minds, Novocastrians are all too aware this multi-billion-dollar industry is fickle to say the least.
Obviously, there’s a lot more big decisions taking place behind the scenes, but for us, the passengers, we just want to start planning holidays. •
Plan for when things go wrong TRAVEL TIPS
TMATT & BRETT
he law of averages means that at some point in your travelling life, your plans are going to get thrown in the air by something out of your control.
We’ve experienced this more than a few times. We’ve had cancelled flights and missed connections, but it’s not just airports and airlines, we’ve had train cancellations due to tunnel fires, hotels that have lost our bookings and that one time we turned up to the wrong hotel on the wrong side of the city.
The weather, of course, is also a major cause of pain for travel plans. We’ve been flooded in, flooded out and been chased by bushfires. We’ve even been bunkered down somewhere waiting for a cyclone to pass.
We have found that the 3 Ps have always stood us in good stead.
It may seem strange to say but none of the above "ruined" our holidays. Humans are great at adapting to their surroundings, and this is true when on holidays as well.
We have found that the 3 Ps have always stood us in good stead. (don’t) Panic, (be) Pragmatic and (have) Perseverance.
Don’t panic. You will feel for a short time that your world is ending, but a fourth P (perspective) will soon kick in.
We have always found that being pragmatic has helped us. If someone else needs those last plane seats more, then give them up and accept the good travel karma. If you need to catch a bus and a ferry and a train to replace a flight, do it. If the mistake is someone else’s, deal with that later, just solve the problem at hand for now.
Perseverance is the hardest of the P’s. You may need to wait for someone to help solve your problem, you may need to be a squeaky wheel, you may need chase your insurer to get your money back at the end, long after you have returned home.
For us looking back, the holidays where things didn’t always go quite to plan are the ones we remember most vividly. Many a dinner party guest has been regaled with our tales of how we got out of these situations and still had a good holiday. •
WITH
WEEKLY DEALS
What’s On
SATURDAY 3 AUGUST
Lisa McGuigan’s Annual Medieval Dinner, Vamp Wine Rooms, Pokolbin, 7pm.
Kilo Sale Australia, Ravella, 48 Watt Street, Newcastle, 8am to 4pm, until Sunday 4 August.
Meet the Makers, Pork Ewe Deli, Mayfield, 11am to 1.30pm, until Saturday 14 September.
Hunter Wildfires v Manly Marlins, No. 2 Sportsground, Newcastle, 3.05pm. Cocktail Shakin' Class at Bartholomew's, Bartholomew's, Newcastle, 3pm.
SUNDAY 4 AUGUST
Urban Deli & Bar Polish Feast, Urban Deli & Bar, Cooks Hill, 12.30pm.
The Wilderness Chef Cooking Workshop, The Wilderness Chef, Wallsend, 11am to 1pm.
Hunter Transplant Research Foundation Barefoot Glow Bowls, Adamstown Bowling Club, 4pm to 8pm.
TUESDAY 6 AUGUST
Orangutans – A Conservation Legacy, City Hall, Newcastle, 6pm.
WEDNESDAY 7 AUGUST
Celeste Barber: Backup Dancer, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 7.30pm.
The Office Trivia, The Exchange Hotel, 125 Denison St, Hamilton, 7pm.
Future Choices Expo, McDonald Jones Stadium, Broadmeadow, 9am to 1pm.
THURSDAY 8 AUGUST
Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells, Newcastle Civic Theatre, 8pm.
Newcastle Music Festival, various locations, until Friday 23 August.
Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase, Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba, Warners Bay, 7.30pm to 9.30pm.
Count Us In 2024, various locations, until Thursday 15 August.
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST
COLLECT and COLLECT: Focus, The LockUp, Newcastle, until Sunday 8 September. Kingsley Winter Lodge, Crystalbrook Kingsley, King Street, Newcastle, available to book until Sunday 1 September.
Tom Gleeson: Gear, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 6.30pm.
OUR MARKET GUIDE
SATURDAY 3 AUGUST
Olive Tree Market, Civic Park, Newcastle, 9am to 2pm.
Morisset Shop & Feast Markets, Morisset Showground, 9am to 2pm. Pelican Foreshore Markets, Lakeview Parade, Pelican, 9am to 1pm.
The Hunter Valley Night Markets, Quirkz in the Hunter, Abermain, 5.30pm to 7.30pm.
SUNDAY 4 AUGUST
Homegrown Markets, Speers Point Park, Speers Point, 10am to 2pm.
SATURDAY 10 AUGUST
Medowie Markets, Bull & Bush Grounds, Medowie, 8am to noon.
SUNDAY 11 AUGUST
Made & Found Market, Webb Park, Redhead, 10am to 2pm.
Perfect Sunday Markets, The Lass O’Gowrie, Wickham, 1pm to 5pm.
SUNDAY 18 AUGUST
Homegrown Markets, Speers Point Park, Speers Point, 10am to 2pm.
THURSDAY 25 AUGUST
Millfield Community Fair, Millfield Public School, 9am to 2pm.
WEDNESDAY 31 AUGUST
Hunter Vintage and Retro 2024, West Wallsend Workers Club, from 9am.
St Philip’s Christian College Cessnock Spring Fair, Lomas Lane, Cessnock, 10am to 3pm.
WHAT'S ON
SATURDAY 10 AUGUST
Sleapy’s Day, Townson Oval, Merewether, from 10am.
Afro Beats & Amapiano, Castle Del Mar, Newcastle, 8pm to midnight.
The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever, King Edward Park, Newcastle, noon.
SUNDAY 11 AUGUST
Newcastle Knights v Wests Tigers, McDonald Jones Stadium, Broadmeadow, 4.05pm.
NRLW Newcastle Knights v St George Illawarra Dragons, McDonald Jones Stadium, Broadmeadow, 6.10pm. Vince Jones, Warners Bay Theatre, baramayiba, Warners Bay, 4pm to 6pm.
WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST
UpStage: Blueberry Play, The Playhouse, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 7pm, until Saturday 17 August.
FRIDAY 16 AUGUST
Em Rusciano: Outgrown Tour, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 7.55pm.
SATURDAY 17 AUGUST
Kurri Curry & Arts Festival, Col Brown Rotary Park, Kurri Kurri, 5pm to 10pm, until Sunday 18 August, 10am to 3pm.
Exhibition Opening: Other Worldly, Straitjacket, Broadmeadow, 11am to 5pm, until Sunday 8 September.
Wallsend 150 Years Community Fun Day, Nelson Street and Wallsend Skate Park, 1pm to 6pm.
Club Disco, The Newcastle Hotel, Islington, 9pm.
SUNDAY 18 AUGUST
Winter Long Lunch, Stanley Park, Fullerton Cove, 1pm.
WEDNESDAY 21 AUGUST
Top Dog Film Festival, Event Cinemas Kotara, from 7pm.
THURSDAY 22 AUGUST
Carrie The Musical, The Playhouse, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 7.30pm, until Sunday 25 August.
FRIDAY 23 AUGUST
Newcastle Jazz Festival, Newcastle City Hall, until Sunday 25 August.
Mount Pleasant Wines at the Chef's Table, Shortland Building, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, 6pm.
SATURDAY 24 AUGUST
Barrel Notes: Jazz in the Distillery, Earp Distilling Co., Carrington, 6pm.
Whisky & Craft Spirits Festival, Bartholomew's, Newcastle, 1pm to 8.30pm.
TUESDAY 27 AUGUST
Degustation Dinner featuring Drayton’s Wines, Vincent St Kitchen + Bar, Cessnock, 6pm.
THURSDAY 29 AUGUST
Howard Park Wine Dinner, The Grand Hotel, Newcastle, 6.30pm.
Escape to Italy, Napoli Centrale, Newcastle, 6pm to 9pm.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Gig Guide
THURSDAY 8 AUGUST
Telenova – Time Is A Flower International Tour, King Street Warehouse, Newcastle, 7pm. $40. Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 7pm. From $79.
FRIDAY 9 AUGUST
Huckleberry & Kingsley James, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 8.30pm.
Poltergeist 9000, The Locker Room, Adamstown Bowling Club, 8pm.
Reece Mastin, Shoal Bay Country Club, 8pm. $35.
Joe Camilleri & The Black Sorrows, Belmont 16’s Sailing Club, 8.30pm. $50.
Oran Vir, Cessnock leagues Club, 8pm. Finnian Johnson, Vincent St Kitchen + Bar, Cessnock, 8pm.
The Covers Theory, The Kent Hotel, Hamilton, 10pm.
SATURDAY 10 AUGUST
The Night Shift, King Street Warehouse, Newcastle, 9pm. $25.
Crawfish Stew, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 8.30pm.
Natalie Davis Duo, The Rinks Stage, Adamstown Bowling Club, 4.30pm. Samba Frog, The Locker Room, Adamstown Bowling Club, 7.30pm.
Caitlin Harnett & The Pony Boys Passin’ Through Tour, The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Mayfield, 8pm. $20.
Ben Mingay and Friends, Newcastle Conservatorium of Music, 7.30pm. $69.
SUNDAY 11 AUGUST
Kingswood Microscopic Wars 10 Year Anniversary Tour, King Street Band Room, Newcastle, 6pm. $50.
Neptune, King Street, Newcastle, 8pm. Steve Edmonds Band, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 6pm.
WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST
Viscera Infest, Band Room, Hamilton Station Hotel, 7.30pm. $40.
Musica Viva Australia: Pekka Kuusisto & Gabriel Kahane, Newcastle City Hall, 7.30pm. $62.
Open Mic Night, The Press Coffee and Book House, Newcastle, 6.30pm.
THURSDAY 15 AUGUST
King Stingray Regional Run, King Street Band Room, Newcastle, 7pm. $56.
Leaving Jackson: The Johnny Cash & June Carter Show, Civic Theatre, Newcastle, 7.30pm. $69.
FRIDAY 16 AUGUST
VOXNEON, King Street Warehouse, Newcastle, 8pm. $40.
Ignita, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 8.30pm.
Sam Nicholls, The Rinks Stage, Adamstown Bowling Club, 5pm.
One Flew Over w/ Maids of Horror & Dusty, The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Mayfield, 8pm. The Bon Jovi Experience, Shoal Bay Country Club, 8pm. $35.
SATURDAY 17 AUGUST
Ghost Road, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 8.30pm.
King Hideous w/ Retrograde, Punctures & Me Local, The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Mayfield, 8pm.
The Roy Orbison Story, Performance Arts Culture Cessnock, 7.30pm. $60.
SUNDAY 18 AUGUST
Dylan Wright Get A Little Lost Tour, King Street Warehouse, Newcastle, 7pm. $40.
Fish Fry Pow Wow, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 6pm.
THURSDAY 22 AUGUST
Nirvana Tribute Show, King Street Warehouse, Newcastle, 8pm. $50.
Open Mic, Rogue Scholar, Newcastle, 7pm, every Thursday.
FRIDAY 23 AUGUST
The Belair Lip Bombs, King Street Warehouse, Newcastle, 8pm. $20.
VDUBS, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 8.30pm.
Conner Wink, The Rinks Stage, Adamstown Bowling Club, 5pm.
Before The King, The Stag & Hunter Hotel, Mayfield, 8pm.
SATURDAY 24 AUGUST
Northeast Party House Enhance Tour, King Street Band Room, Newcastle, 7pm. $65.
Skyes Law, Front Bar, Wickham Park Hotel, Islington, 8.30pm.
Karen Soper, The Rinks Stage, Adamstown Bowling Club, 5pm.
Rock Rhapsody, Club Charlestown, 8.30pm.
Blueberry Play signals the start of great UpStage homegrown quartet
Youth and all its confusion, beauty, love and fruitiness will be laid bare when Madee Osborn performs the monologue Blueberry Play as part of UpStage at the Playhouse 14 to 17 August.
Produced by Lingua Franca, this 70-minute theatrical piece is the brainchild of one of Newcastle’s most exciting young talented playwrights Ang Collins.
The creator of Spewy, a comical reflection on growing up in Newcastle, will once again bring a unique splash of colour to the stage.
A beautiful coming of age tale, Blueberry Play will take its audiences through the ups and downs of being a teenager in a regional town, through the awkwardness, the embarrassment and the fears of being thrown into situations well beyond your years, before life leaves your heart bursting with – fruit flavour.
Don’t miss the twist.
Blueberry Play is the first of UpStage’s 2024 program.
The four-month program, aimed at showcasing and celebrating the region’s
remarkable theatre talents, begins here, with a girl in a blueberry costume.
Meet Ang Collins for an exclusive Q&A after the show on opening night. •
Lulu Bell Productions. Written by Vanessa Bates
Newcastle’s own clinical trial centre
Every new medication/treatment has to pass through a series of clinical trials, a process which can take several years, before it can be approved for wider use.
By volunteering for a trial, you will be helping to improve future treatment options.
Our ethically approved clinical trials are run by a dedicated team of doctors and nurses. We provide comprehensive medical care throughout the trial at no cost to participants.
It is only through the willingness of clinical trial volunteers that we can advance medicine and continue changing lives.
For further information call us on 4089 3745 or visit novatrials.com.au
Interested in joining a clinical trial?
Register your interest in trials for the following:
Atrial Fibrillation
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)
Heart Failure
Hidradenitis Suppurativa
Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Prurigo Nodularis
Psoriasis
Weight loss
Aldinga Tours is partnering with On Course Tours for next adventure
After more than three decades of adventures, Paul and Barb Burgess are planning to hand over the reins of their successful touring company to take a well-earned rest.
The pair’s business, Aldinga Tours, is
partnering with On Course Tours. Both brands are family-owned and operated coach tour businesses with more than 35 years’ experience escorting tours through Australia and Internationally, making them an ideal fit.
“We want to assure you that there will be no changes to your upcoming bookings and we both will be involved in the future for an extended period,” says Aldinga Tours boss Paul Burgess.
“We see many similarities between our companies and want to assure you that the family values, interesting commentary, great company and customer service will continue and remain unchanged.”
The Aldinga Coach will be staying at its depot for Paul to drive on tours departing from Newcastle, so, it’s business as usual with the bonus of some new and exciting tours to suit everyone.
Paul and Barb will be hosting tours together for the remainder of 2024.
"We can’t wait to introduce our new friends. Aldinga Tours and On Course Tours have a shared purpose to put friends, stories and memories into your life.” •
Still owned and operated by Paul & Barb Burgess. Over
BEAUTY THAT SHINES
From skin prep to the perfect base, discover the trending products that are making headlines in 2024. Whether you're looking for innovative formulas or timeless essentials, these picks are setting the standard for this year's makeup must-haves.
Benefit Hoola Matte Bronzing Powder $63 Adore Beauty
Glossier Balm Dotcom Lip Balm and Skin Salve $27 Mecca
MCoBeauty Miracle Flawless Setting Spray
$19.39 Chemist Warehouse
Dior Lip Glow Oil $64 David Jones
L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Mascara in Black $29.99
Priceline
Real Techniques Miracle Powder Sponge $18.99 Priceline
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer $53 Mecca
MCoBeauty Super Glow Bronzing Drops $32 Big W
Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush $45 Sephora Go-To Face
Minerals
Mecca Max Lash Curler E1 $16 Mecca
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Pillow Talk $38 Mecca
LIFESTYLE
WITH JESS FARCHIONE
One of the greatest gifts having a child has bestowed upon me is a renewed relationship with time.
Before having Lucia, as I would get into bed of an evening, I would write out a to-do list for the following day.
Sometimes these tasks were monotonous and dull, like drop off clothes to charity bin, put suitcase up in attic that’s been sitting in the spare room for weeks, or move piano and vacuum up dead cockroaches. Sometimes they were more ambitious. Film video assessment for celebrancy course, coordinate weekend away with girlfriends for Anna’s birthday, work on MC notes for Chris’ wedding.
I’d get into bed that night, see all my tasks ticked off and feel validated and successful and like I was crushing this whole “being an adult” thing. Or I’d see one or two unchecked and feel kinda bad about it.
The errands will get run. The to-do list will get ticked off… eventually.
Let's be real - they were certainly not life or death and could easily roll over to the next day, but if I’m honest, I went to bed much happier when I’d achieved what I set out to achieve, no matter how small and fruitless or large and fruitful. More than once I questioned why I wrote the list in the first place because there’s something about having tasks in writing which just adds all the more pressure, don’t you reckon?
When Lucia was first born, I was still in the habit of writing these sorts of lists but very quickly realised, those 16 or so waking hours I was used to utilising don’t quite cut it anymore, (even if I added in the extra awake hours a newborn contributes to a household). Who knew something as simple as “dropping clothes to charity bin” could become so challenging? Who knew something as simple as leaving the house could become so challenging?!
I saw a quote the other day that read “if you include your children, they might slow you down, but maybe that’s the point.” I think that quote was aimed more at toddlers and young children being involved in their parent’s activities and errands and adventures. But I think it can apply to just the everyday too. Slowing down - that’s the point. The errands will get run. The to-do list will get ticked off… eventually. What matters now is the slowing down. Enjoying the little moments with the little ones; that’s the only item on the to-do list now. •
Peter and Robynn Sleap, with Sleapy's Foundation chairman David Fleming, enjoy a coffee at Merewether.
Peter Sleap awakens a need to help others
INTERVIEW & ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON PHOTOGRAPHY PETER STOOP
Peter “Sleapy” Sleap knows he’s a lucky man.
It’s one of the primary reasons for his inclination to help others doing it tough.
After confronting his own cancer battle – and staring at the face of death more than a decade ago, he and wife Robynn kicked off a little sporting fundraiser, Sleapy’s Day, at Merewether.
But, little did they know back then of the “monster” they’d created.
It’s not only become one of the biggest events on the Newcastle sports calendar, it also led to the formation of Sleapy’s Foundation, a charity unlike any other.
The multi-faceted not-for-profit offers assistance in the way of immediate cash relief or experiences, either physically or emotionally, that aid in the quality of life in
children and adults, which give them –and their family – hope and strength for a better future or outcome.
To this day, Sleapy is still blown away by how much the charity’s flourished.
“Considering where we started from, it was never going to be something like this,” he said.
“At first, we were always going to help the South Newcastle Lions and then we began to help a few people.
“Everything just snowballed from there.
“And, it’s grown into a juggernaut.
“We’ve even become a charity partner of the Newcastle Knights this season.
“Sometimes, it gets a little bit out of control and overwhelming because we’re so busy all the time.
“We’re all volunteers, no-one’s paid.
“It gets a little bit out on control and overwhelming because we're so busy all the time.”
“That can be hard, especially when they give their time freely.
“However, that’s what they’re all about… doing good for people and the foundation.”
Sleapy’s holistic journey began in 2010, a year after he was diagnosed with throat cancer.
“While I was undergoing radiation and chemotherapy, my former rugby league club – South Newcastle – rallied to raise funds to assist with my medical expenses and other necessities through a sports luncheon featuring North Queensland Cowboys duo Peter Parr and Jonathan Thurston,” he said.
“Pete, who’s a great mate of mine, and I played together for Souths in the 1980s.
“But, the Lions really pitched in to support me when I was sick.
“In fact, the comments back then centred around the fact I wasn’t going to make it because I was Stage 4 – and not really good.
“I went from 96kg to 60kg in seven weeks.
“Pete, who was at the Cowboys at the time, brought down Jonathan Thurston, Luke O’Donnell and coach Neil Henry for the original luncheon… it was sensational.
“I was overwhelmed by everyone’s generosity and it meant the world to Robynn and I.
“Once I improved, I felt compelled to pay it forward, so we ended up creating the foundation (in 2019), with the help of Pete, Dave Fleming and Tim Butler, as well as Scott Pfeiffer, Ross Holding, Kim Hartigan, Bruce Mackie and Kellie Wright.
“You know, form something good from a bad situation and start helping others with cancer.”
Sleapy disclosed the “rise and rise” of the foundation was “bittersweet”.
“Unfortunately, cancer is always escalating,” he said.
“Especially, within young people, which we find really hard now that we’re working with a lot of social workers at the hospital.
“In many ways, we wish we didn’t have to give out the money.
“We have a unique chance to include a serene and tranquil escape for sick kids and their families alongside these works.”
“However, cancer’s on the rise and people are doing it harder in this cost-ofliving crisis.
“Honestly, that’s sad.
“On the flip side, I guess it’s great for us because we get to help more people in that situation.
“The support we’re starting to receive is brilliant.
“I think people realise we are not a twobob charity anymore, we’re actually a serious organisation.
“We’re out there, assisting others on the ground.
“I find once more people understand that and know 99% of the money goes to those who need it, they take us seriously.
“They then ask how can I donate or get involved with the organisation?
“Also, they start looking into Sleapy’s Foundation, going onto our website, and see what an amazing job we’re doing in the community.
“Sadly, these days, it’s about recognition as well.
“There are a lot of big charities in Newcastle, we’re only a small grassroots outfit.
“So, we don’t often get acknowledged.
“Maybe, that’s because we’re not about finding a cure; we’d rather help people the moment they need it.
“That can be just as important in the long run.”
Sleapy’s Foundation has several major projects in the pipeline moving forward.
One is raising $500,000 for a venture close to their collective heart.
“An extension of John Hunter Hospital will see a new Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) established,” Sleapy told the Newcastle Weekly
“We have a unique chance to include a serene and tranquil escape for sick kids and their families alongside these works.
“It’s an important opportunity that can only happen if the broader community
gets involved, too.
“The area will include the construction and fit-out of an 18-metre by 6-metre courtyard, with connections for two ICU beds, plants, trees and bench seating.
“Imagine a child in intensive care being able to spend time in the open-air courtyard with their family and friends around them while still receiving essential medical support.
“It’ll be an area of tranquillity where groups can meet in large numbers and interact outside the hospital walls.
“We’re also organising our inaugural Sleap Walk on 2 November.
“We’ve talked about it for quite a long time, but we’ve never gone ahead and done it.
“So, we’re staging a walk from The Station in Newcastle, up around the East End and back again.
“Best of all, we are encouraging people to wear their pyjamas.
“It’ll be a novelty walk and we’re hoping to raise some good dollars through that.
“Being an event-based charity, you need to diversify and think of things outside the square.
Proud media partner and supporter of Sleapy’s Foundation
“We hosted our first Gala Ball a few months ago, we have a race day at Newcastle Racecourse and we stage an International Women’s Day Garden Party High Tea.”
Which leads Sleapy and the team to the annual Sleapy’s Day at Townson Oval.
On Saturday 10 August, his beloved Souths tackle two-time Newcastle Rugby League (NEWRL) premiers Maitland Pickers in a stand-alone showdown.
“I reckon it’s bigger than the grand final,” he said.
“So, for NEWRL to come on board and understand how the day’s become so popular is great.
“To be fair, we’d never sat down with them before.
“But, we met with GM Adam Devcich and told him it was getting out of control and they needed to be a part of it, which they embraced.
“Sleapy’s Day is a showpiece in Newcastle Rugby League.
“People ask about it before the start of the season.
“I’ll be walking down the street or in a
restaurant or a pub and they’ll come up and say ‘When’s Sleapy’s Day?’
“So, it’s captured everyone’s imagination and the terrific thing about it, it’s a local game.
“The crowd understands it’s going to get some footy while helping us as the same time.
“I would love every NEWRL club to associate themselves with a charity.
“Not a big-name one, a grassroots organisation.”
Throughout it all, Sleapy admitted the foundation wouldn’t be where it was without his better half and Dave “Dib” Fleming.
“Robynn’s been amazing, especially when she saw what we were doing in the charity space and for other people,” he said.
“She’s working around the clock on the computer, seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
“I might be the face of it but she’s the backbone of the organisation.
“Robynn works her backside off, she’s the foundation’s strength and pillar.
“As for Dib, we go back a long time as friends, winning grand finals together.
“He understands the charity; it’s part of him.
“We made Dib chairman because we needed someone with stability.
“I’m a hot head and he’s a logical thinker.
“So, we’re the ying and the yang.
“For a person who loves the charity like he does, understands it and what he puts into it… is amazing.
“He’s so humble and sometimes a marriage counsellor for Robynn and I,” he added with a laugh.
“There’s no other way to explain it, Dib’s our rudder.”
As for Sleapy’s Foundation’s end goal, it’s simple: passing the baton.
“It would be ideal to get a full-time employee,” he said.
“However, we’re reluctant to do that [at the moment] because we see the money going somewhere we prefer it to go, those who need it.
“But, the charity’s growing so much; we’ll eventually look at a full-time position and, hopefully, one or two employees.
“I’d like them to run it, while we oversee it, as we’re getting on in age.
“And, if we don’t do that (a succession plan) in the next couple of years, the legacy could disappear.
“We’re at that fork in the road.
“We were in a similar position in 2018 when we said it was going to be our last Sleapy’s Day.
“It was getting too big, too much.
“Then we decided to form a charity instead and then still run Sleapy’s Day.
“I guess we’re at that fork in the road again.
“We’ve got so big that we need someone to come in to continue the growth and brand recognition.
“We also desperately require people to put on events on our behalf; that’s the secret.
“(Mark) Hughes does it so well because, obviously, he’s a recognised brand.
“We’d love people to have a golf or bowls day on our behalf.
“Charlestown Netball Association did a charity event for us recently, so we really appreciate that.
“And, if we could get more organisations doing it, that would be fantastic.” •
Sleapy’s Foundation Ambassadors
LANI FEAR
After having a sore leg, Lani was originally diagnosed, at age 10, with stage 3 metastatic osteosarcoma in her right tibia and left lower lung. She underwent lung resection, surgery on her leg and 10 months of chemo. After a setback, she’s now 18, healthy, living her best life.
MACKENZIE PAPWORTH
The 14-year-old Raymond Terrace girl has been diagnosed with cancer.
And, for the past two years, Mackenzie’s fought incredibly bravely to beat a rare form of cancer, small cell variant ALK Positive Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma Non-Hodgkin’s disease.
EMERSON LEES
In December 2010, Emerson, then 9, was diagnosed with late stage 3 papillary thyroid cancer, which resulted in a total thyroidectomy as well as the removal of surrounding parathyroid glands and lymph nodes. She now divides her time between Sydney and Newcastle, graduating from uni, working in retail and assisting in the family business.
CHARLII CROESE
Charlii was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in her distal femur at the age of 16. She’s now 24, following seven years in remission. She makes every day count and lives life to the fullest. Charlii believes the world is her oyster. “If I can get through bone cancer, I can get through anything,” she says.
Book the date
The ever-popular Sleapy's Day returns to Townson Oval, Merewether, on Saturday 10 August, where a big crowd is expected to watch the Lions and Pickers in action.
Hunter businesswomen named among national award finalists
Women from real estate, fitness, food, communications and performing arts industries in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie are among the finalists list of the 2024 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards.
The 19 carefully-selected individuals made it ahead of thousands of entrants from across Australia.
The annual awards program is aimed at shining a spotlight on the rising economic, cultural and social contributions of femaleled small businesses.
It spans all capital cities as well as rural, regional and suburban towns.
Now in its third consecutive year, the 2024 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards features more than 60 categories across retail, services and manufacturing industries.
Entrants are judged according to a stringent criterion by an independent
expert panel.
Winners of the 2024 Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Awards will be announced on Saturday 24 August. •
Chamberlains Law Firm welcomes new director
Chamberlains Law Firm has further strengthened its commitment to the Hunter by appointing Marissa Dimarco as a director to help expand and grow its Newcastle office.
A corporate and commercial lawyer, she boasts experience in commercial contract drafting and negotiation, privacy and technology law, franchising, joint ventures, business and share sales, and acquisitions and corporate governance.
Ms Dimarco has also been a partner at a national law firm, as well as a director of two boutique law firms, one of which she founded, prior to her appointment with Chamberlains Law Firm on 8 July.
So, her knowhow is second to none.
“I am delighted to be joining the team at Chamberlains Law Firm,” Ms Dimarco said.
“The firm is an excellent fit in terms of culture, team expertise, vision, technology, innovation and strategic direction.
“I remain grateful for the continued support of my clients and referrers.
“And, I look forward to growing the Chamberlains Law Firm team in Newcastle.
“I’m keen to provide advisory and legal services to commercial, corporate and property law clients and working with referrers and other advisors to achieve commercially desirable legal outcomes.”
A nationally-awarded company, Chamberlains Law Firm assists people across the nation from its offices in Canberra, Sydney, Perth and Bolton Street, Newcastle.
“Marissa will further strengthen our national capability in commercial, corporate and property law.”
The team of specialists draw on a range of industry leading experts, too, to provide pragmatic legal solutions to any problem, from insolvency, corporate and commercial, employment, construction, insurance, personal injury, property and conveyancing to commercial litigation and private wealth, estate planning and litigation.
“The firm was committed to growth in the region and Marissa’s appointment was part of our strategy to boost its presence and brand in the Newcastle and greater Hunter,” managing director Stipe Vuleta said.
“She has a diverse client base, which is complimentary to the overall practice of Chamberlains Law Firm.
“Marissa will further strengthen our
national capability in commercial, corporate and property law.
“So, with our real-world understanding, nationally-recognised expertise and straightforward advice, we’ll guide you through any legal challenges… big or small, complex or simple, start to finish.”
Ms Dimarco has also acted for clients across multiple Australian and international jurisdictions and has expertise in niche areas of law including mining, manufacturing, resources and not-for-profits/charities.
In addition, she can assist with property law, having managed and co-ordinated large property teams and national property law tenders undertaking large strata, industrial and residential subdivisions.
To contact Ms Dimarco, phone 9264 9111 or visit chamberlains.com.au
SPRING INTO A NEW WAY OF WORKING
Tips to get your garden ready for spring. WITH RICH WIGLEY FROM BLUE SKY
LANDSCAPING
STOCK UP ON SUPPLIES
It's been a wet winter. Harvest some of this water and store it ready for the warmer months. Stock up on fertilisers, compost mulch and weed killers, it’s a great time to get ready for spring.
REPLENISH YOUR SOILS
Do some needed weeding and add some compost/fertiliser and mulch to the garden beds. The upcoming growing months will mean the plants will demand a lot of nutrients from the soil. Ensure they get their best shot at growing by adding Nutrient rich fertilisers and organic compounds to the soil.
CHECK YOUR IRRIGATION
Yep, I know I said turn it off during winter a few months ago, especially when it has been this wet, but you are going to need it when it starts to warm up in a couple of months. Do a maintenance check on your irrigation system, test the batteries, check for leaks and check for adequate coverage to the areas you’re going to need it.
PRUNE READY FOR THE GROWING TIME
Give all of your fruiting plants a good cut back ready for the growing season. A lot of plants can run during the winter so pruning them back to keep good shape and to
allow for new growth during spring is highly recommended. Brace yourselves because during spring everything is going to go nuts.
ADD SOME NEW PLANTS
With the weather warming up, now Is a great time to look at heading off to the garden centre and choosing some new additions for the garden. Sow some veggies like beetroot, lettuce, onions and cabbage or grab a handful of shrubs to add some colour and greenery to your space. •
ENQUIRE
Suburb Profile: New Lambton
Postcode: 2305
LGA: Newcastle
The people fortunate enough to call New Lambton home are a very patriotic bunch.
If you ask them, they will very proudly list all the reasons why their suburb is one of the best in the region.
Parks, shopping, a sports stadium, doctors, health practitioners, walking tracks, a nature reserve, and schools that are the envy of neighbouring postcodes.
It also boasts 29 parks that cover almost 40% of its total land area.
For Lisa Macklin Property director Lisa Macklin, New Lambton is more like a village than an address.
“People move in and around New Lambton, but very rarely do they leave,” she says.
After her husband had spent a lifetime in the suburb, this is where the pair chose to raise their own son, and ironically this is also where he resides with his own family.
"New Lambton is such a family-friendly suburb, it honestly is a wonderful place to live.”
SUBURB SNAPSHOT
New Lambton is a hive of activity most days, with the suburb’s 11,000 residents popping in and out of the main shopping precinct at various times of the day. From beauty, books, coffees, and groceries, to fish and chips, pubs and homewares, the postcode services the community both within and outside its 5.5km radius. The former coal mining township stretches from its 450-acre nature reserve on one side to its 30,000-capacity international sports centre on the other. It sits on the border of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie LGAs.
PRIMARY SCHOOLS
JOHN HUNTER HOSPITAL
NEWCASTLE PRIVATE HOSPITAL
HOTELS AND CLUBS
BOUTIQUE SHOPPING VILLAGE
BLACKBUTT RESERVE
$650/WK
40–49 YRS
29 Years Experience
Experience
8 Years Experience
Experience
4 Years Experience
Years Experience
3 Years Experience
STEPHANIE JORDAN
LISA MACKLIN
JESSICA KEARNEY
LILLY FINDLEY
VANESSA BENEKE 15
ELIZABETH PALLAS 17 Years
ELIZA DUNN 15 Years
Who’s buying, who’s selling?
A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES OF THE REGION’S PROPERTY MARKET WITH JONATHAN CHANCELLOR
ARTICLE FIRST APPEARED IN HUNTER & COASTAL LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE.
CONSTABLE ESTATE, POKOLBIN
Constable Estate, a bold circular home within a Pokolbin vineyard estate, has been listed for sale through Adam Morris of Monopole Group in conjunction with Forbes Global Properties. With a guide price of $8m to $8.8m.
Located at 205 Gillards Road, Pokolbin, the estate has been in the hands of the Constable family since 1982 when it was acquired from the winemaking goliath, Hungerford Hill.
Completed in 2010 and designed by Newcastle based architects, Suters Architects. Exceptionally proportioned, with its circular four-bedroom, five-bathroom home, The residence features a gym, sauna, covered pool and encircling an outdoor amphitheatre.
Spanning 14 hectares of picturesque grounds. The vineyard spans 5 hectares, with beautifully matured vines that have produced Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sémillon, Verdelho, and Chardonnay grapes. There are, no winemaking facilities on-site.
The late stockbroker David Constable, an avid horticulturist who died at the age of 90 in early 2024, also created the gardens, an oak walk, sculpture park, camellia garden, rose garden, and the Len Evans Memorial Lookout in 2014.
With his wife, Ida, they co-founded and sponsored Music in the Hunter Chamber Festival.
203/3 HONEYSUCKLE DRIVE, NEWCASTLE
A Honeysuckle apartment on the Newcastle Foreshore has been sold for $2.5m through Jarrod Dickens and Jesse Wilton of Wilton Lemke Stewart. It had been listed with a $2.4m to $2.5m guide.
Located at 203/3 Honeysuckle Drive with its second-floor corner position, the renovated three-bedroom apartment with a study has views through its floor-toceiling glass outlook.
There are two side-by-side parking spots plus a double storage cage. It last sold for $2.4m in 2021 and was then listed as a rental seeking $1,100 per week.
The top sale in the complex came in February 2024 when a fourth-floor three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment fetched $3.065m.
51 STEEL STREET, REDHEAD
A tri-level trophy home in Redhead has been listed for sale through Andrew and Renee McKiernan of McKiernan Real Estate.
Located at 51 Steel Street, the fivebedroom, three-bathroom residence was designed by architect Geoff Lovie, utilising solar passive design principles.
Completed in 2014, the coastal dwelling enjoys panoramic ocean vistas. It comes with a parents’ retreat, guest accommodation, children’s wing, along with various living spaces.
Set on a 715 sqm parcel, there are multiple terraces with an outdoor kitchen on the central terrace, a pool, and veggie gardens. There is also a 600-bottle underground wine cellar. Redhead’s top sale came last October at $3.1m on Alison Street. The property is calling for expressions of interest with a guide around $8m.
INVERMIEN, SCONE
Invermien, one of Scone’s finest rural holdings, has been sold for $14.1m through Sam Triggs and Jamie Inglis of Inglis Rural Property to the Altomonte family. Spanning 381 hectares, the Cliftlands Road property, located five kilometres south of the town, was the first land grant in Scone in 1825.
The colonial-style homestead with a central courtyard has six bedrooms, with a veranda encircling the entire residence. It had a courthouse, jail, and coach house, all of which are now renovated. The property is divided into 55 paddocks with laneway access throughout, providing options for beef production, professional equine operations, hay production. It comes with a three-bedroom manager’s cottage and a two-bedroom cottage. Invermien last sold for $5.65m in 2012.
11 RIDGE STREET, MEREWETHER
A Merewether trophy home has been sold for $6.04m through Tahnee Burke and Lyndall Allan of Salt Property. They marketed the home as having “all the facilities you would expect from a five-star hotel, while also providing a calming sense of seclusion and tranquillity.”
Set on 696 sqm, the house was designed by architect Chris Tucker and built by Todd Blatchford, with two levels plus a rooftop terrace. The five-bedroom, four-bathroom abode has a self-contained pool house and spa. There is a space above the double garage with a kitchenette, bathroom, and balcony.
The Ridge Street holding last sold for $685,000 in 2002.
Merewether’s highest sale was oceanfront parkside on Berner Street last July for $11.05m. The six-bedroom, six-bathroom two-storey residence was built in 2020, overlooking Dixon Park Beach towards the ocean, and featured shortly after its construction on the cover of Hunter & Coastal Lifestyle.
KOORAKAI, FERNHILL RD DALWOOD
The Hunter River homestead, Koorakai, set on 47 hectares at Dalwood, has been listed for sale. Set on the sandy banks of the river, the master-built homestead has views over what Jurds listing agent Cain Beckett has described as some of the Hunter Valley’s prettiest hillsides.
Set behind electric gates, the homestead features a high-pitched roof giving threemeter ceilings, brickwork sourced from a Gunnedah kiln, recycled bridge timbers, and wide wrap-around verandas. There is a central cupola. Its vast country kitchen boasts an antique Aga cooker. The Fernhill Road property last traded a decade ago at $1.795m before its approval for the homestead. Price guide is $4.5m to $4.75m.
ISLINGTON POLICE STATION
The former Islington Police Station, complete with four bedrooms, one bathroom, and three lock-up cells, has recently settled after being sold for $1.45m.
Located at 127 Maitland Road, the red brick building, spanning three titles totalling 778sqm and zoned MU1 Mixed Use, was offered to the market for the first time in over 30 years through Mathew and Brooke Iuliano of Mavis Property. The former lock up last traded for $135,000 in 1992.
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Pets of the month
For the chance to have your furry friend featured, email your pet’s pics to pets@newcastleweekly.com.au
ROLY THE GREENLAND HUSKY
Roly is a three-and-a-half-year-old Greenland Husky, who loves attention from everyone he meets, but particularly from his human dad and Nanny Trout.
Favourite activities: Roly's favourite time of the day is when "dad" takes him for a 5km6km walk or a stroll to the shops.
Favourite toy: Roly absolutely adores his pet ferret (not real) called Fez. He's often seen sleeping with Fez by his side.
Favourite treat: Loves anything chickenrelated, whether it's a Smacko, jerky straps or bite-sized snacks. Doesn't mind porridge for brekkie either.
Special talent: Knowing when it's meal-time.
ALFIE THE BURMESE CAT
Alfie is a one-year-old Lilac Burmese cat who lives with his sister, a ginger Domestic Shorthair cat named Missy, at the Straitjacket gallery in Broadmeadow.
Favourite activities: Alfie likes receiving chin scratches from visitors, sleeping in the sunshine, and playing with Missy.
Favourite toy: His favourite toy is a pink mouse that he constantly loses under the lounge. He’s also fond of these soft balls that used to dangle from a string.
Favourite treat: Alfie always craves fresh chicken or noodles as a treat.
Special talent: Alfie’s most special talent is his gift of unconditional love.
LUNA THE CHINESE SHAR-PEI
ROMEO THE ROTTWEILER
Meet Romeo, the charming and affectionate Rottweiler who is sure to steal your heart! Romeo is a sweet and sensitive boy who appreciates gentle handling and a calm environment. His loving nature makes him an ideal match for a patient and understanding family. Romeo would love a yard as he absolutely loves rolling around in the grass. Watching him enjoy this simple pleasure is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart. While Romeo can be strong on a lead, he’s always eager for a walk and loves having a good sniff around. With a bit of guidance and patience, he can learn to walk more calmly. Romeo would thrive in a home where he can receive plenty of love and affection.
To enquire about Romeo's adoption, visit: petrescue.com.au/ listings/1046826
Luna is a unique, sun-loving and fiercely loyal Chinese Shar-Pei who may come across as reserved and standoffish to outsiders, but to her beloved family, is a devoted and protective companion.
Favourite activities: Luna’s days are a blend of leisurely sunbathing, restful naps and being the ever-vigilant guardian of the home.
Favourite toy: Luna will often be found snuggled up with her pink blanket during nap time or when relaxing in her favourite spot in the sun.
Favourite treat: Luna’s eyes light up at the mere mention of cheese. She can’t resist the savoury, creamy goodness.
Special talent: Luna’s ability to open doors with her paws is a remarkable and practical skill, showcasing her resourcefulness and intelligence.
Supercars keen for a Hunter return
Australia’s leading Supercars drivers are keen to return to the Hunter in the future, even if it’s not in Newcastle.
The region suffered a major blow late last year after the governing body cancelled the Newcastle 500 from its 2024 program.
Supercars Australia chief executive Shane Howard informed City of Newcastle of its decision in October, despite the NSW
Government committing to fund a one-year extension.
But, local motoring fans might end up having something to cheer about.
During a stopover at Singleton Lancaster Motor Group, stars Brodie Kostecki and Chad Mostert indicated they would be thrilled to see another race in the Hunter.
“You could see the Newcastle 500 was popular, with the amount of people it
"In regards to the Hunter, the region is a lot more accessible for a lot more fans to come to an event."
attracted,” the former said.
“So, you know it would work somewhere around the region due to the supporter base.
“However, I’d be keen to get behind the wheel in the Wine Country 500, for sure,” he added in response to Cessnock City Council kicking off formal proceedings to host a Supercars event.
Two-time Bathurst winner Mostert echoed those sentiments.
“It’s disappointing that Newcastle didn’t happen again this year,” he told the Newcastle Weekly.
“That event, for me, just really showed the amount of fans who made the effort to come.
“The track side of things, it was a quite a tight and technical circuit, which made racing quite hard.
“But, as for the actual location, the attendees and the whole set-up, I definitely miss it [up here].
“In regards to the Hunter, as a whole, the region is a lot more accessible for a lot more fans to come to an event.
“It would be awesome for us race car drivers to return here.” •
Jets blast off
Ahead of the upcoming ALM and ALW seasons, the Newcastle Jets took a golden opportunity to introduce their new owners to local businesses and supporters at Modus.
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Secure now and build this year
Located just 20kms from Newcastle CBD, Fletcher Green offers the best of both worlds, with beautiful green open space and all amenities at your doorstep. Register your details now on our website, or call for your chance to secure a block of land and get ready to build your family home this year.