October 2022

Saunders

From the editor

How good is a success story when it envelops the entire Hunter Valley?

That’s what the Newcastle Knights recently achieved.

But, to the surprise of many, it wasn’t the NRL men who restored pride in the region, it was the club’s inspiring NRLW women who did it.

The Ronald Griffiths-coached squad over-powered the Parramatta Eels 32-12, in front of a reported 45,000 people at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, to lift the Telstra Premiership for the first time.

It was a remarkable turnaround by the Knights.

Newcastle failed to win a match in the 2021 edition of the competition, its inaugural campaign.

However, thanks to a few astute decisions, some excellent recruitment and plenty of hard work, the club made every post a winner on this occasion.

And, the local community, from Shortland to Scone, Merewether to Muswellbrook, and Rathmines to Raymond Terrace, joined the girls on the historic journey.

The support afforded to the Knights’ female players, especially on social media, was second to none, but certainly well-deserved.

And, to top it off, City of Newcastle and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes hosted a civic reception in celebration of their maiden title at City Hall.

It certainly evoked memories of the club’s glory days, when the Johns and Gidley brothers, Billy Peden, Robbie O and the Chief ruled the roost.

Their triumph should inspire the area’s next generation of NRLW youngsters.

But, it must also be an example – of what to do properly – for the NRL arm of Newcastle’s professional league fraternity.

The choice of Griffiths, as mentor, cannot be underestimated.

The Woodberry Warriors junior served an impressive apprenticeship with the NRL Women’s and Men’s Indigenous All-Stars, as well as an assistant to Michael Maguire at the Wests Tigers.

He also spent a number of years, previously, with the Kurri Kurri, Maitland and Greta Branxton clubs.

So, he knew his “home” region.

That allowed him to tap into the local talent, bringing the likes of Hannah Southwell, Yasmin Clydsdale and Olivia Higgins – to name a few – back to the Hunter Valley to represent the Knights.

The move automatically connected the NRLW outfit to the community.

Residents, young and old, felt this Newcastle side was “their team”.

It’s a formula that’s been lost on the NRL counterparts. Too many young guns have departed these pastures, to the detriment of the Knights.

So, congratulations to each and every member of the 2022 premiership-winning squad, from the coaching staff to the players.

Enjoy the moment.

Until next month, keep smiling.

EDITOR Rod Thompson

JOURNALISTS

Rebecca Riddle Rod Thompson

PUBLISHER Nicole Shelley MARKETING

Sophie Kepreotes

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Melanie Coggio

SOCIAL MEDIA

Amber Sherwood

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY

Daina Marie

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Knight to remember for our NRLW stars

Todescribe the Higgins clan as a “rugby league family” would be an understatement.

They’re that and so much more.

Father Craig’s a legend within local sporting circles, claiming the 1984 Player of the Year award, while sons Liam and Luke recently contested the Newcastle RL (Real NRL) grand final with their beloved Macquarie Scorpions.

But, for now, it’s daughter Olivia’s turn to shine.

The gifted hooker was an integral member of the Knights’ NRLW side, which captured the Hunter club’s inaugural Telstra Women’s Premiership this month at the expense of the Parramatta Eels.

The silverware also doubled as Newcastle’s first major trophy – male or female – since 2001.

A self-confessed “late bloomer”, Higgins was thrilled to be a part of history, despite winning the title with the Sydney Roosters earlier in the year… and scoring in that decider.

“It’s very special,” she told the Newcastle Weekly

“To come home and then do it for a team I grew up supporting is really cool.

“I haven’t felt that before, so it’s nice.”

Higgins only began her “tackle” journey in 2019, rising through the ranks via league tag.

“When I was growing up, there wasn’t a

competition for girls,” the ex-Aberglasslyn Ants junior said.

“So, I started playing [league] tag for South Newcastle. And, from there, I played a bit of nines, progressing through to CRL for Newcastle and then the Central Coast Roosters.

“I soon found myself with the (Sydney) Roosters in the NRLW. Now, I’m back with the

While Liam and Luke fell one victory short of success in 2022, Higgins picked up two NRLW titles.

“That’s good as well, getting one up on my brothers. In fact, I think Liam’s sick of coming to my grand finals,” she added with a laugh.

“Seriously, they both love it; they’re really supportive, along with mum and dad.

“They try to attend every game, even though it was hard for a while when they played in the recent Real NRL semis.

“Liam actually left his end of season footy trip early to watch the decider, which was massive.”

As for Higgins’ immediate future, she’s keen to remain a member of the Knights’ outfit.

“The contracts are yet to be finalised for next year, as they’re still sorting out the CBA with the NRL,” she said.

“So, hopefully, I’ll be on deck again.

Knights; it couldn’t be better.”

Higgins admitted it was “inevitable” she’d fall into code, too, given her pedigree.

“My dad played league his whole life in Newcastle and for the Bears in Sydney,” said the 30-year-old (pictured top right with Yasmin Clydsdale).

“He’s coached my brothers right through, so I’ve always been around the game.

“But, I just love it. I live and breathe footy.

“It’s all that’s on TV and it’s all I remember watching as a kid, including the boys’ matches.

“That’s where my interest began.”

And, now, she’s also shown up her talented siblings on the big stage.

“If we can keep the core group of girls together, especially with the new sides entering the competition, that would be fantastic. My gut feeling is I think most of them will stay.”

The victorious Newcastle squad - Tamika Upton, Kiana Takairangi, Shanice Parker, Bobbi Law, Emmanita Paki, Kirra Dibb, Jesse Southwell, Caitlan Johnston, Olivia Higgins, Millie Boyle, Romy Teitzel, Yasmin Clydsdale, Kayla Romaniuk, Emma Manzelmann, Tayla Predebon, Simone Karpani, Makenzie Weale, Caitlin Moran, Kyra Simon, Tiana Davison, Jessica Gentle, Tamsin Barber and Hannah Southwell – was also presented with the Key to the City by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes at a civic reception, in front of more than 1,000 fans.

"To come home and do it for a team I grew up supporting is really cool."

Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent merger

invited to vote

create a financial powerhouse for the region

Both the Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank Boards are unanimously supporting the merger, which has been approved by the Federal Treasurer. We recommend our members also vote in favour of this incredible opportunity to combine forces*. Merging will make us a more resilient force in the market and best placed to deliver the highest value and services to our customers, now and in the future.

Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent are proudly customer-owned with no shareholders to consider, and this will not change as a result of the merger.

In merging, this is our commitment to you:

We will remain 100% customer-owned;

We will keep both iconic brands, and there’ll be no change to your bank accounts or banking details;

Once we’ve merged, you’ll be able to use your Greater Bank or Newcastle Permanent card to access both brands’ ATM network for free;

The current combined number of branches will be retained for at least two years;

Our workforces will come together and there will be no forced redundancies as a result of the Merger for at least two years;

Our customer contact centres and headquarters will continue to be based in the Hunter, as they always have; and

We will continue to support our local communities by at least maintaining the $4.5 million invested each year by Newcastle Permanent, Greater Bank and our respective charitable foundations.

More than just two organisations coming together, this merger is about our role in the Hunter’s success and prosperity. Through merging and becoming a larger organisation, we can drive growth and a greater contribution to our regional economy. We can keep skills and expertise, jobs and investment here.

Many times during our combined 120-year history, we have taken important steps to change the shape and structure of our organisations to ensure their future relevance and success.

This is another pivotal moment requiring strong leadership and the support of our members.

To all our eligible members: don’t miss this opportunity to have your say. Join us in voting Yes.

Big plan to revitalise Maitland’s iconic Walka Water Works

Maitland’s

heritage-listed Walka Water Works could soon be home to a $25 million accommodation hub under a proposal to transform it into a Hunter tourism icon.

The NSW Government, Maitland City Council and Reflections Holiday Parks are joining forces on a joint funding bid for the 64-hectare Crown Lands reserve to be submitted to the Regional Tourism Activation Fund.

Under the plan, the Department of Planning and Environment, as well as council, will remediate, restore and upgrade the site.

Reflections Holiday Parks would also establish caravan and camping facilities. The projected site improvements include:

• Restoring the 1885 Pumphouse building and chimney back to their original condition to preserve their heritage and allow tourism and hospitality businesses to flourish, such as an interpretive centre, cafés, restaurants, craft brewery or distillery, and event functions

• Establishing overnight accommodation starting with 10 eco-cabins, 12 glamping

tents and 40-powered caravan sites, as well as a camp kitchen and barbecue area

• Upgrading the eastern lawn with landscaping and infrastructure for weddings and other events

• Redeveloping the miniature train railway station as an improved visitor experience

• Upgrading walking trails to improve accessibility and include interpretive information

• Developing a centralised amenities building, upgrading car parking, and other infrastructure improvements

“Walka Water Works is one of the state’s most unique public sites serving the Hunter since 1887 as a source of water, then power and now recreation and heritage,” Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said.

“This plan aims to restore it to its former glory and invest in additional improvements that can make it a tourism magnet for the Hunter Valley.”

Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold said other upgrades could later be pursued for the Power

Station lawn area for picnics, events and a water play space, remediating Walka Beach, and an education centre.

“It’s exciting to have Reflections Holiday Parks, who is eager to establish some holiday accommodation here, on board,” he explained.

“Council has agreed to enter a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with them to work towards that goal.

“Even though it is a Crown Lands site, we’re the manager and trustee of Walka.

“But, to be honest, it’s owned by the people of Maitland.

"I’ve long said this [Pumphouse] building, although expensive to maintain, needs to be brought back to life.

“If we don’t do it now, it will never happen.

“Maitland welcomes 870,000 visitors a year, spending $123 million, however we can unlock much more by investing in unique heritage assets like Walka Water Works to diversify tourism.

“This is a crown jewel in Maitland."

Remembering our beloved Luci

On29 August, it was exactly 12 months since Lisa Zajac lost her 33-year-old sister Luci Mackersey to breast cancer.

The West Wallsend mother-of-two had battled the deadly disease for less than 18 months before it robbed her of her young life.

Since Luci’s passing, Lisa and her family have been determined to continue warning others of the cancer that kills more than 3,000 Australian women each year, a cancer that does not discriminate.

They will feel particularly poignant, as the calendar ticks over into October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“One of the promises Luci made me keep was to carry on her legacy, spread awareness and raise funds where possible,” Lisa says.

“Knowledge is power and it’s really important for us to get her story out there. Breast cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia, with nine people losing their lives to this disease every day. Early detection and education are vital.”

between 5pm and 6.30pm.

The free event will be moderated by author and journalist Annabel Crabb, with questions welcome to be submitted prior.

Information can be found at www. breastcancertrials.org.au •

Building brighter futures

Youmight see an Ethiopian child with a baby on her back looking at you from the side of a bus as it travels throughout the Hunter this month.

Waiting in traffic, reflecting on the day you’ve just had, you might spare a thought for what this child’s day looks like. Her family is one of the 70% of Ethiopian families who struggle to put food on their tables.

This month, Catholic Mission is reaching out to the Newcastle and Hunter community to bring hope to families in need in Ethiopia.

Newcastle-based Diocesan Director, David McGovern, says this is the perfect time to get involved.

connect with the communities in Ethiopia.

“By collecting donations here in Newcastle and the Hunter, we will be able to support projects in Ethiopia through our network of mission partners. This year, our aim is to create a goat rearing centre to address malnutrition issues faced by families in Emdibir, a rural area of Ethiopia. This project will empower the local community by giving them tools to feed their families, fight youth unemployment, and access agricultural training. We do it with the local community.”

“The church, as a hub, provides the platform to connect locally at a root level and address social justice issues, as a church is not just about four walls. Catholic Mission offers you a tangible way to reach out and help others.” shared Renata, a local mother from Maryville.

“It is an invitation to make a difference,” he says.

“This is about connecting with the wider community, and now is the right time to get involved.”

By sharing stories and raising awareness about the challenges faced by families in Ethiopia, Catholic Mission is providing the local Newcastle and Hunter community a way to

By hearing and sharing the stories of families in need in Ethiopia, there is a desire to create a deeper connection between the communities despite the distance.

“While they can’t come to Australia to tell us their stories, we can hear about their lives and offer our support,” Mr McGovern said. •

To hear the stories of families in the Emdibir community of Ethiopia visit catholicmission.org.au/brighterfuture

SCAN THE QR CODE WITH A MOBILE DEVICE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

“This is an invitation to make a difference.”

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What’s On - October

ART

Newcastle’s inner city Playstate Curate Gallery will host a Graffiti Martini Paint and Sip event with artist Jordan Lucky on Friday 21 October from 7pm to 9pm. Spray cans, markers and paint will be the tools to bring a creative piece to life with the help of a delectable cocktail and advice from one of the city’s best street artists.

FILM

Alliance Française de Newcastle will host its final French Friday film for 2022 with a screening of Hear Me Out at Events Cinema in Kotara on Friday 21 October. The Little French Market starts at 6pm with savoury and sweet pastries for sale together with home-made preserves, cookbooks, handbags, jewellery, candles, and unique gifts, before the French film (with English subtitles) begins at 7pm.

FOOD AND WINE

The annual Boydell’s Picnic in the Vines will be held across two days, Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 October. Between 11am and 4.30pm, the East Gresford estate will welcome visitors to bring a picnic rug and their own fare, find a spot on the grass and enjoy some of its wine together with live music, beer, pizza, tea and coffee.

DANCE

On Sunday 23 October Newcastle’s Civic Theatre is set to come alive with dance as the Royal Czech Ballet visits Australia for the first time, performing the timeless classic Swan Lake. The venue will host two performances, from 2pm to 4pm and again from 7pm to 9pm.

King Edward Park is set to shine when the annual Cinema Under the Stars returns on Saturday 22 October. The popular familyfriendly event will include the screening of Sing 2 from 5pm as well as live music, free children’s activities, roving acts, popcorn, and an array of food vendors.

RIDE

The inaugural Ride 4 Rescue Hunter Valley will see mountain bikers of all skill levels take on the tracks from Binnorie Dairy on Sunday 30 October. Riders aged 12 and older can choose from a 15km, 46km or 69km trail through Lovedale and hit the pedals from 7am till 2pm, with proceeds going to the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

MOVE

Walk, run, push, stroll or wheel your way along the region’s most popular track from Adamstown to Belmont in the annual Fernleigh 15 on Sunday 23 October. The recreational event is set to take participants along the 15km track from 6.30am, just for fun. On Sunday 16 October, the city will host its annual Heartkids Australia Two Feet & A Heartbeat charity walk to support children impacted by congenital heart disease. Participants can choose between a 4km or 8km walk with money raised assisting children and families impacted by the disease. The event begins at 9am at Thomas Halton Park.

SARAH PHOTOGRAPHY; H EVENTS ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

AGRICULTURE

The 68th Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show and Rodeo Program will take place on Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 October at the Morisset Showground. Pony rides, fire displays, arts and crafts, whip cracking and sheep shearing displays and a ute muster will be accompanied by showbags, wood chopping and daschund racing events from 8.30am each day.

ON THE WATER

Locals and visitors alike are invited to experience the MV Steve Irwin until Sunday 30 October. Now a retired hero of the Sea Shepherd fleet, the infamous and colourful vessel is docked in Carrington while it looks for a new home, possibly in Newcastle. People can board the vessel for 1.5-hour encounter, including a ship tour and light show project.

GARDENS

The Bath House Garden in Oakhampton Heights is hosting an Open Day on Sunday 16 October, welcoming members of the public through its gates from 10am to 4pm. The Hunter Valley venue is expected to inspire and educate green thumbs of all ages, showcasing the four acres of manicured garden that also featured in the 2022 TV series of Farmer Wants a Wife

SONG

Morpeth Gallery and the Underground Opera Company will be present Operarte on Friday 28 October at Newcastle’s Christ Church Cathedral. Songs, performed by some of Australia’s best opera singers, will be begin at 7.30pm and be accompanied by a backdrop of Gordon Hanley’s artworks and timelapse photography.

Andrea Bocelli will perform at The Valley’s Hope Estate on Saturday 29 October. It will be one of just five the world-renowned tenor will headline during his Australian tour.

A night to remember packed with songbirds and showgirls, disco divas and opera arias, burlesque twirlers and go-go groovers!

Photos Daina Marie

Article Rebecca Riddle

“I’ve always just been Brittney from Newcastle”

If you asked 29-year-old Brittney Lee Saunders to describe herself in three words she might be inclined to choose “random”, “chatty” or even “bogan”.

But, the vivacious blonde is actually so much more than these three ingredients.

Since the publishing of seemingly endless YouTube videos throughout her teenage years, Brittney has become the businesswoman behind several successful brands - all based in her hometown of Newcastle.

Brittney amassed a whopping 1.04 million followers on YouTube by posting videos of her everyday teenage life.

Fast-forward six years and she is now the founder of Fayt Label, Fayt Label Store, Form Active, Staple Swim, Outdo Collective, Outdo Espresso and Flamingo Coffee.

Yet, despite being rumoured to be worth more than $5 million, Brittney knows how to “keep it real”.

Spend more than half-an-hour with the effervescent creative and you’ll soon learn that what sets her apart from others is that she possesses an energy that is seemingly contagious.

She is not afraid of change, she harbours no self-doubt, and she is driven by the enthusiasm she creates, and others respond to.

“Everything I’ve ever done has just come from one of my random ideas,” she says.

“I believe things happen because they’re meant to.

“Maybe people have just come along for the ride because I’m consistent and I’m relatable.”

It’s been this way since the former Newcastle High School student learned she had a knack for entertaining strangers via a new online platform that was gaining momentum at the time - YouTube.

By creating and posting online videos of

herself talking to the camera about teenage life, Brittney soon gained a cult-like following.

“YouTube was just coming out,” she says.

“We had MySpace, but social media was just starting to get popular.

“This was before Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.”

Brittney was 14 years old at the time.

“It was all a bit of fun back then; you just recorded a video of yourself, and you uploaded it,” she said.

It’s a pastime she’d begun well before her teenage years, recording videos of herself chatting about her life using the webcam atop her desktop computer before she hit double-digits.

“It wasn’t for any reason, making the videos on movie maker was just a creative outlet for me,” she added.

But, by the time she started high school, online sharing platforms had joined the world wide web and Brittney’s chats expanded to include music videos her and friends made during sleepovers.

So began her YouTube journey, an experience she admits wasn’t always a positive one.

“Back then I was the only kid doing that and the kids in my year were starting to make fun of me, telling me I was weird,” she said.

“In their defence the videos were weird, I don’t blame them for picking on me.”

Brittany was asked by school staff to remove the videos from online.

But, she continued, until she dropped out of school in Year 11.

“I wasn’t interested in any subjects, or going to university, or having a career that needed further study... I just wanted to start working,” Brittney said.

And, she did, trying her hand at everything from hospitality to retail, hairdressing to office admin.

“I never stayed in a job for longer than five minutes honestly,” she recalls with a laugh.

All while she continued making YouTube videos, by 18 they became more tutorial

“I’m a curvier girl myself and I know how hard it is to find a pair of jeans that fit in all the right places.”

Brittney Lee Saunders with her partner AJ.

in nature as she tried her hand at makeup technique sharing.

“I wasn’t any good at doing makeup at all but that’s when the beauty guru era came to life online,” she said.

By the time she turned 21, Brittney Lee Saunders had 80,000 subscribers when her boss suggested she make YouTube her full-time career.

“I didn’t even know what that meant at the time,” she explained.

“I knew people were getting paid to talk about products before and after their videos, but I had no idea what an ‘influencer’ was.”

Since the day she quit her job Brittney says she has never looked back.

“It all snowballed from there, it kept growing, I pumped out videos, vlogs, I made makeup videos, videos of me trying on clothes, trying international candy, whatever.”

She was sent products to review and was fussy about which ones she promoted.

All the while she was amassing a league of followers.

“I think it was being consistent and having a personality people could relate to, never trying to be someone else online,” she said.

“I’ve always just been Brittney from Newcastle.”

Yet sharing your teenage years and early twenties under the constant scrutiny of a million strangers can’t always be smooth sailing.

Criticism is something the confident young woman has always had a knack of surviving.

“People used to call me a bogan and I’d be like ‘is that such a bad thing?’, haven’t we all got a bit of bogan in us,” she said.

In 2017 Brittney launched Fayt the Label, an Australian-based fashion clothing brand retailing an array of items sized 6 to 24.

“I knew the YouTube thing wasn’t going to be forever, I knew it wasn’t sustainable,” she said.

“After making videos for other people’s brands, I wanted to do the same for my own.”

Launching from her own garage, she began a business plan she’d sourced entirely from the internet.

“We went down to Bunnings and got five tubs, we thought that would be enough. I made a website, did some designs, and sourced the packaging,” she said.

“Seriously, people ask me all the time ‘how did you learn all this stuff?’, I just googled it – the internet is amazing.”

Then from her garage to a store in Maryville and now King Street, the former YouTuber is transitioning and cementing her place as a savvy business tycoon, now with a team of 20.

She has aptly named the space that houses her headquarters Outdo.

“I called it Outdo because I felt like I was out doing myself with it. It’s a beautiful white space that can be transformed into anything,” she said.

And, the name FAYT (pronounced fate).

“I believe things happen because they’re meant to,” Brittney said.

“I think the number one thing that stops people from doing anything they want in life is just fear.

“People used to call me a bogan and I’d be like ‘is that such a bad thing?’, haven’t we all got a bit of bogan in us.”

“It’s the way the world is, we’re all so worried about what other people think of us and the way we look, or a decision we made, what are my friends and family going to think.

“But, honestly, ever since I started making those videos in high school and not caring about what others think, this has been a progressive journey for me and I’m so glad for it all.”

In November, Brittney will open the doors to her inaugural Sydney store – a retail space at Westfield Miranda.

It is the first step towards her dream of seeing Fayt the label in every Australian city.

Her other commitment is to size.

“Most shops stop at size 14 which makes no sense at all because the average Australian woman is size 16,” she said.

“Yes, size 16 - that means we all go this way, or that way, from size 16.

“I’m a curvier girl myself and I know how hard it is to find a pair of jeans that fit in all

the right places.

“I put a lot of love into every piece I design, and I try to think of every woman.”

She has grown and she has changed, and she has allowed her followers to join her on that journey, but Brittney admits she feels there is still so much more for her to achieve.

“I don’t know where I’ll be in a year, I never know,” she said.

“A year ago, I didn’t know I’d be here, doing this, you just have to go on the journey, make random decisions and go with it.

“I always tell people around me they have to be open to change, it keeps life fun.

“I’d like to normalise changing your mind about things. It shouldn’t be frowned upon.”

From teen YouTuber to businesswoman in six years, what does her own evolution look like?

“I’m going to become the mayor of Newcastle,” Brittney said.

“Do I need to go to university to do that? Can I just do the fun parts? I’ll have to ask the mayor if she needs someone to take over.” •

COUNCIL

Snape’s Allusive Object wins art prize

Braddon

Snape has won the 2022 Lake Art Prize with his creation Allusive Object.

The Lake Macquarie artist took home the coveted title ahead of 65 other finalists.

The theme of this year’s annual competition was the vessel: contained within and moving between, with Snape’s work representing the endless portal of the universe.

After taking a decade to form, using temperature to buckle and shape inflated metal, Snape’s work was described by judges as "a commanding piece".

“It has a great play on light as the object is a dark space so it uses light to encompass an area that is bigger than itself and, for us, this really spoke about that theme of a vessel in a really unique way,” said judge Brett Adlington.

Snape’s work was one of 390 entries in the $25,000 Lake Art Prize - one of the richest acquisitive art prizes in regional NSW.

Entries included artworks by established and emerging artists, from across the country.

For Snape, this win holds a special meaning.

“I have been developing inflated works for nearly 10 years now and really got to perfect my craft during the lockdowns where I added the aspect of light into the artwork,” he says.

“The artwork is three parts of stainless steel, which is inflated by cold air with a lot of pressure to make it blow out and buckle.

“There’s a special personal satisfaction [in winning] because I’m a Lake Macquarieborn person, so it kind of feels like people have finally recognised who I am in the place where I came from.”

Allusive Object will be on display at the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), yapang,

LAKE MAC CITY COUNCIL; DEAN BELETICH ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

“The artwork is three parts of stainless steel, which is inflated by cold air with a lot of pressure to make it blow out and buckle.”

Small Cessnock real estate wins big at prestigious state awards

The

team at LJ Hooker Cessnock is still in celebration mode after winning a major prize at the 2022 REINSW Awards for Excellence.

The local outfit took home the Real Estate Agency – Small category at the event, which recognises outstanding achievements throughout the industry.

Principal Bryce Gibson admitted the triumph was a career highlight.

“Being a family-owned and run business, it is a pleasure to lead the amazing hard-working and dedicated crew,” he said.

“I would like to thank the team for the amazing work it does within our local community, as well as my wife Mellissa. Without her guidance, behind the scenes and mentoring, this award wouldn’t have been possible.

“It would be remiss of me not to mention Matilda and Bronte either, our two girls who often spend a fair bit of time here at the office with mum and dad.

“We hope that we make you proud.

“A huge congratulations go to the other finalists, too.”

The REINSW Awards for Excellence continues to be the most prestigious and respected ceremony in the state, acknowledging the “best of the best” in the real estate sector.

REINSW president Peter Matthews said it celebrated those who’d “really gone that extra mile despite such trying times”.

“Yet again, we were impressed by the number of entrants into the Awards for Excellence, in spite a year of unprecedented challenges,” he explained.

Cessnock

“With so many deserving nominees, choosing the top professional and agency for each category was extremely tough. For those who received a winner’s trophy, they should be incredibly proud of their achievement."

Winner of the REINSW Awards For Excellence 2022 - Small Agency

Metricon’s Studio M space to host Open House event at Hamilton

Hamiltonis home to a new $5 million design centre that will be open for inspection later this month.

The facility, located at 27 Donald Street, will allow home builders a chance to take a sneak peek at their living space well before a single brick has been laid.

Described as a contemporary, interactive space, the 1000m2 area offers personalised and customised creative solutions, without the need to travel the M1 to Sydney.

To kickstart its standing in the Hunter, the space, aptly named Studio M, will host an open day event on Saturday 15 October.

Between 10am and 1pm, visitors will be welcomed with an array of fun activities, expert advice, and the opportunity to experience firsthand the process of design selection.

“We have an immersive and memorable morning planned – giving members of the Hunter community a taste of what they can expect should they wish to personalise their

dream home with us and see what really is possible,” says Metricon’s NSW GM Patrick Eather.

“There are so many choices when building your new Metricon home. We felt it was important to not only display product, but to

also build small-scale installations and now members of the public will get to feel, see and touch products in a way that brings them to life.

“There's nowhere else in Newcastle where you'll find this variety of product under one roof.”

Off the Beaten Track

The Hunter is peppered with perfect picnic possies - many with views to die for. From the ever-popular King Edward Park to Foreshore Park, Speers Point Park, and Blackbutt Reserve. But what about the lesser-known spots – the Hunter’s hidden gems. Newcastle photographer David Diehm shares his favourite places to lay out a blanket and soak up the scene.

HUNTER LOOKOUT, HEATON STATE FOREST

As a family we love exploring and connecting with nature, so for us a bushwalk and picnic as a family is a regular weekend occurrence. We enjoy getting off the beaten path a little and finding new places. Our kids really enjoy spending time in the bush, and we enjoy watching them learn and connect with Mother Nature. For that reason, Hunter Lookout is one of our favourite locations to visit. The bush and bird sounds here are relaxing and the vistas out over the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin Range and lower Barringtons is just spectacular.

LEGGY POINT LOOP (ELVIS ROCK), GLENROCK STATE CONSERVATION AREA

The popular Leichhardt’s Lookout sits high above Flaggy Creek with views that span out across the lagoon. My favourite vantage point in Glenrock is one you’re not going to find marked on a map. Starting just above the Scout Camp, taking the Leggy Point Loop walking track you emerge at a large rocky outcrop sitting high on the southern side of the lagoon. Named Elvis Rock, the location offers expansive views out over the lagoon and to the northeast.

A favourite sunrise location on a perfect summer’s morning.

GREEN POINT RESERVE – SEA EAGLE LOOKOUT, VALENTINE, LAKE MACQUARIE

This is a local vantage point for us, with no shortage of room for the kids to run around and play. Green Point Reserve is also a spot that provides a breathtaking panoramic view to the southwest of Lake Macquarie and relatively close to home. As a family we love trying to spot the local sea eagle whenever we’re visiting this magical spot.

BINGO

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursdays

MEAT AND VOUCHER RAFFLES

Thursdays and Fridays 6.30pm, Sundays 6pm

COUNTRY LINE DANCING CLASSES

Tuesdays 6.30pm

LEARN TO ROCK N ROLL DANCE

Barbecue Prawns with Nduja Butter

RECIPE FROM CHEF STEVE SCOTT, THE LUCKY HOTEL

Spring is the perfect time to fire up the barbecue and eat outdoors. It is also the best time to impress guests with a dish containing King Prawns.

Newcastle chef Steve Scott recommends getting your hands on the largest you can find as the more time they spend on the grill - the more flavour they absorb. Nduja is a spicy, spreadable salami from Italy’s southern region that Scott says gives a great little kick to the flavour of the prawns.

Serves 3–4 as a starter or 2 as a main

Ingredients

8-10 large size king prawns – peeled and deveined, heads and tails left on

250g unsalted butter – softened 125g nduja

1 tsp sea salt flakes

BLUE WATER COWBOYS

Sunday, 30th October 2pm

COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB

Juice of one lemon

Method

In a food processor blend together softened butter with the salt, nduja and lemon juice. You should achieve a light, airy, whipped butter consistency. Taste and add more salt or lemon if desired.

Meanwhile, get your prepped prawns ready with a good hit of sea salt and olive oil, then place them on the hottest part of your barbecue, turn as needed so they don’t burn and ensuring you get good colour all over, your average large size prawn will take about 6-7 minutes, you want them just cooked in the middle.

While the prawns are on, gently heat the nduja butter in a good size saucepan until its starts to bubble and foam slightly. Arrange your prawns on a large plate garnished with some wild rocket. Generously spoon over the hot melted butter. Finish with a squeeze of lemon and some fresh baguette to catch all the extra juices.

Goodness Greatness, it's Banana Blossom in the city

Its

motto is "Goodness Greatness" and that’s exactly what new franchisees Emily O’Brien and Andrew Greentree are hoping to bring to their east end corner of Newcastle, when they open Banana Blossom Salads later this month.

Already a name synonymous with Sydney and Central Coast crowds for its fresh, flavoursome, nourishing menu items, the pair is hoping Novocastrians will embrace the Asianinspired goodness, too.

They are the latest custodians of the brand that was born in 2003 by husband-and-wife duo Ben and Nat Thomas - Sydneysiders who combined his food background with her Thai heritage.

In fact, Banana Blossom’s famous Triple Chilli dressing recipe dates back centuries to Nat’s great-grandmother who served the delicious spicy treat more than 100 years ago in the village of Nakhon Si Thammarat in South Thailand.

From a successful restaurant to a quickservice store located in Mona Vale, Banana Blossom has grown to eight franchises across Sydney, one in Queensland, and soon to open Newcastle and Terrigal.

If enthusiasm counts for anything, the pair behind Newcastle’s Hunter Street venture are sure to win over hungry customers.

The parents of three young girls, Emily and Andrew are leaving behind their roles in education and tree management for a whole new challenge.

A maturing of sorts, the duo say they are ready to sink their teeth into a business they believe is long-overdue in the former steel city.

Banana Blossom is a brand they both admit they are passionate about and have been since they became regular customers while working in the Northern Beaches.

They’ve not only tried most of the dishes on the menu, but both openly admit to having a favourite.

For Emily, it's Tokyo Classic with chicken: green tea infused soba noodles, cucumber, cherry tomato, avocado, white sesame sweet soy dressing and chicken – the most popular choice on the menu, she admits.

For Andrew, it’s the Triple Chilli with beef - a

dish he warns is not for the faint-hearted. This spicy bowl includes rice noodles, cucumber, bean sprouts, peanuts, deep-fried chilli, and spicy Thai chilli dressing tossed with beef.

It’s hard to say exactly how many items are available on the menu the pair says, as each salad can be made to order using any number of ingredients.

There is also the option to create a gluten free, vegetarian and/or vegan delight.

Banana Blossom Salads will open its doors at

Hunter

UNMASKING A NEW AGE IN FACIAL TECHNOLOGY

Natasha

Grant has been working in the beauty industry for the past seven years.

Twenty-four months ago, the director and owner of Newcastle business Maddison Skin discovered the benefits of Hydrojelly masks, a product she says has revolutionised traditional facials.

Esthemax Hydrojelly Masks are a new generation peel-off mask made predominately from algae. They rely on electrolyte technology to give the skin a blast of essential electrolytes, allowing additional moisture to be absorbed and retained.

Each masks contains different ingredients targeting different concerns, but each will undoubtably assist with dryness, fatigue and complexion.

Natasha believes the gel masks are so popular because they offer each client a unique experience.

“Rather than the average brush on mask,

these work by adding water to powder to create a jelly-like consistency,” Natasha says.

“This is then applied over the entire face, including the eyes and mouth, for 20 minutes.”

While the gel soaks deep into the pores of the skin, Natasha says her and her team offer their clients a scalp massage to help with

deep relaxation.

Once the mask sets into a hard jelly it is then peeled off, mess free.

Applying jelly masks to 95% of their regular trade now, Natasha says on average her team perform six of the popular facials every day of the week.

•

Town

Race

Leighton Curve

Short Sleeve Midi Dress $159.99 Forever New

Pebble Bangle Brass $120 Studio Melt

Naomi Bardot Column Knit Dress $149.99 Forever New

Kiara Fascinator $229 Myer

PRETTY IN PINK

Bold colours, sparkly jewels and eye-catching hair accessories all sprinkled with feminine touches are guaranteed to distract trackside crowds this racing season.

Gold Molten Wrap Ring $17.99 Lovisa

Baby Cheeks Blush Stick $72 Westman Atelier

Swerve Hoop Earrings $89.95 Mimco

Laila Lace Flower Headband $99.95 Myer

Uptown Pouch Nude

From $99 4 day rental Lux Corner

Yanna $89.95 Billini

Bonjour Asymmetric Midi Dress $595 Aje

Newcastle still firmly in Hennessy's heart

Comedian, radio announcer and social media sensation… exNovocastrian Tanya Hennessy is a wearer of many hats.

And, this month, she added “playwright” to her resume, following the world debut of her new play, Drum Roll Please it’s Stevie Louise, based on the best-selling book of the same name.

But, Hennessy’s not just a multi-platform force. She’s a content creator whose comedic chops have earnt her a Facebook following in excess of 1.1 million, with her total views a staggering 550 million – and growing every day.

It’s not a bad effort from someone who hailed from the Hunter. Hennessy began her radio career in 2012 with Southern Cross Austereo at NXFM Newcastle. She followed this with stints as a breakfast announcer in Griffith, Toowoomba and Canberra.

During that time, she also had a segment on the Hit Network’s national show Scoopla with Jules Lund and Emma Freedman.

However, the 36-year-old hasn’t forgotten her roots either.

“Newy was the greatest, I love it,” she said.

“Honestly, the best parts of growing up there were the fact that we could go to the beach or lake every weekend.

“We rode bikes, roller-bladed and went swimming until the sun went down.

“Oh… and we had street parties with our neighbours. Kids in our area would put on a Christmas show for everyone, which in retrospect would have been awful.

“But, as children, we loved it.

“Actually, that experience in Eleebana is what Stevie Louise is based on.

“I think walking the Warners Bay esplanade just to get Kiwi ice-cream is a favourite memory, too. You must get the cream and fudge… MUST.

“Also, shopping at Gardo (lol, not Kotara, I’m old) with mum and my nan and eating at the David Jones cafeteria. I miss that place.

“Or, Bon Oz; I miss Bon Oz, as well.”

In 2017, Hennessy’s rising star was recognised when she won the Junkee Award for Breakthrough Artist, was nominated for Cosmopolitan’s Woman of the Year, selected to perform at Australia’s first VidCon and won Best Radio Documentary at the Australian Commercial Radio Awards.

She followed this with a second ACRA in 2019. And, up until recently, she could be heard around the country on the Hit Network as weekend breakfast host.

In addition, Hennessy often features on national television shows with appearances

"Walking the Warners Bay esplanade just to get Kiwi ice-cream is a favourite memory."

on The Morning Show, Today and I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, while she’s also a regular at Network 10, hosting The Bachelor, The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise: Unpacked, guest-hosting on Studio 10, The Loop and The Project.

Never one to shy away from having a laugh at herself, she began her career as an actor/comic with a Bachelor of Arts Theatre/ Media from CSU and has undertaken courses at Screenwise and NIDA.

Her funny and brutally honest online videos of everyday topics (Things People Say To Hairdressers, Things People Say To Personal Trainers) meant she’s built a worldwide following, too.

But, with the unveiling of Drum Roll Please it’s Stevie Louise: The Play at Maitland’s Upstage Youth Theatre earlier in October, Hennessy was keen to head back “home”.

“I’m a theatre kid myself, having grown up in this world from a young age," she said.

“[Director] Ann Croger, who owns Upstage Youth Theatre, was actually my drama teacher at high school.

“Then I worked for her as a drama teacher when I was a young adult.

“So, to return back to the stage that first sparked my passion for this crazy life I’ve ended up in, it feels so full circle.”

Big crowd expected to Stomp its way to Cessnock extravaganza

Good

food, amazing wine and fun times are on the agenda when the Cessnock Stomp Festival makes its long-awaited return this month.

The landmark event will see Vincent Street transformed into the Hunter Valley’s “biggest street party” on Sunday 30 October.

And, with more than 600m of food, wine, beer, spirits and a huge selection of market stalls, there’ll be something to see or do for everyone.

The extravaganza not only showcases the amazing cuisine and vino in the Hunter, but also the eclectic mix of retailers on Vincent Street.

Cessnock Business Chamber president Clint Ekert said it was great to welcome the festival back onto the local calendar.

“Stomp last took place in 2019 and attracted more than 17,000 people,” he explained.

“So, we’re expecting similar numbers in 2022.

“Our local businesses have gone through a pretty tough couple of years, so we are inviting everyone to come along and see what

“This year, we have a massive kid’s zone with free entry, we’ve assembled an awesome line-up of entertainment, including the alwayspopular Genr8 and, of course, the famous Draytons Family Wines Grape Stomping.” •

Finding connection

ACOVID

backlog, trade shortages and soaring material costs mean if you’re planning to redesign your garden before summer entertaining kicks in, you might have left your run a bit too late.

But, MUD Landscape Design director Mark Tisdell says there are ways to get your planning back on track and help re-focus your priorities while defining what home means to you.

Having learned his craft by combining a Master of Architecture with almost a decade in landscaping experience, the Newcastle-based creative is apt at offering advice that suits the former steel city’s climate, as well as profile.

And, when it comes to landscape architecture, Mark says establishing exactly what function your garden space needs to perform, needs to be addressed in the initial stages.

“The first question to ask: is how do you want to live in this space?” he says. “Each room in your home caters toward a function of sorts, and that’s the same for your garden.”

“Design to the function. It’s fair to say that if someone has a poorly planned garden, it doesn’t matter what size it is, if it’s unappealing it will never be used, whereas someone might have the smallest courtyard but if it’s functional it will be used regularly.”

A connection to the key living areas of the home is crucial, Mark advises.

Whether it be by creating a path from the back deck to the pool, adding a firepit or focal point to draw you into the garden, using landscape lighting to accentuate a feature, or building a retaining wall to encourage a “place to enjoy a cup of tea in the sunshine”.

Together with deliberate planting choices, climate factors and access considerations, living can be enhanced with the correct choices.

Here are Mark’s top tips to planning your garden design:

NUT OUT YOUR BRIEF

List your must-haves in order of importance, understand your capacity, be it time or budget, or capabilities, or the capabilities of those within your network.

MEASURE OUT THE SPACE

Use a scaled drawing of your property to understand its true size.

INSPIRATION

Gather your inspirations, get on Pinterest, flick through sites, books, magazines, wherever you source your ideas from.

SEPARATE YOURSELF FROM THE SPACE

Most people are far too ingrained in the rhythms of their site that they find it hard to see it in other ways. Step back and look at your home and its surrounds in another way.

DRAW

On tracing paper layer the space and draw over the top, again and again until you work out the key feature. Then you can work from there.

MATERIAL SELECTION

Start selecting your palette. Choose your key

MYF GARVAN; JUSTIN AARON ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

“Each room in your home caters toward a function of sorts, and that’s the same for your garden.”

FOCUS

THEME

theme must be in keeping with the house; the same textures, same materials, same colour palette. This makes it feel consistent and considered

CONSIDER SCALE

Plants can be both masculine and feminine and a space may need both for balance.

plants are hard, feminine are soft and beautiful.

Hop into bunny love

Rabbits are social and curious animals, who can make fantastic companions.But, contrary to popular belief, they are not an “easy”

pet for a child.

RABBITS NEED THE COMPANIONSHIP OF OTHER RABBITS

Rabbits are a social species and should not be kept alone; or without at least one other rabbit with whom they are compatible. Generally, they should live as part of a bonded pair. This is a process that takes some time and patience but, if successful, will hugely improve your rabbits’ quality of life. It is important that the rabbits are desexed to prevent them producing lots of babies.

A HUTCH IS NOT A HOME

A common misconception about rabbits is that they’re able to be housed in a hutch all the time. This is not the case. A hutch

NSW

Places

shared some tips:

should serve as a temporary enclosure for your rabbits and a safe place to sleep. If your rabbits are kept in a hutch, it must be attached to a run with plenty of space for them to jump, sit/stand upright, exercise and express normal rabbit behaviours. Your rabbits will also need at least a few hours a day of exercise outside of their hutch and run.

RABBITS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN

Rabbits are intelligent animals that need plenty of exercise and room to run around to keep them mentally and physically stimulated. You should make their environment as interesting as possible and provide opportunities for running, jumping and digging on a daily basis. Ideally, your rabbit will have the chance to

exercise in a safe, protected grassy area every day.

RABBITS EAT A LOT MORE THAN JUST CARROTS

Rabbits are herbivores and grazers; and need to have a constant supply of grass or grass hay to chew. Grass/hay should make up 80% of your rabbits’ diet and is vital for gut health. Chewing continuously throughout the day also helps keep your rabbit’s teeth worn down and can prevent dental disease. Rabbits should also have plenty of fresh leafy greens and vegetables, such as broccoli, spinach, Brussel sprouts, celery and others. You can offer a small quantity of high-quality pellets (no more than 5% of your rabbits’ diet), too.

ROD THOMPSON

N, UNSPLASH

Now

Daycare Open In All Weather

Long Opening Hours Boutique

Book

Pets of the month

For the chance to have your furry friend featured, tag us in your pet’s pics on Instagram #newcastleweekly

HANNA NEWELL-GOTHARD

THE BOXER

Hanna is always smiling. She is always full of energy, loves EVERYBODY, and comes complete with hilarious antics.

Favourite activities: Playing with other dogs, meeting everyone, playing with water, running (by “running” we mean galloping and sprinting), hanging out with her cats and chooks, wrestling and giving kisses (licks). Favourite toy: Her humans, squeaky rubber koala, tug-of-war rope.

Favourite treat: Any foods. Special talent: 360’ jumps in the air, and endless energy, unusual sleeping positions.

ELLIE THE BEAGLE

Ellie is a sweet 15-year-old beagle who loves being around people. She is a big fan of sniffing and has a sneaky little habit of always being able to find herself food and extra treats. In her later years, Ellie has become a lady of leisure and spends most of her time napping.

Favourite activities: Loves to go for walks, take naps in all different kinds of places (she likes to follow the sun) and seeks attention from anyone and everyone.

Favourite toy: Any soft toy she can nap on. Favourite treat: Sweet potato chews. Special talent: Finding food when and where she shouldn’t.

AVA ABLE FOR ADO TION

MARC THE ENGLISH SPOT RABBIT

Marc is an English Spot rabbit, about 2–3 years old. He is a social bunny who LOVES people, the more attention the better! He is very gentle when picked up and doesn't scratch. Marc even enjoys climbing up and sitting on people's backs. This bunny loves his food and zooming around outside his pen - briefly stopping to say hi to any neighboring bunnies and then zooming some more! Not much phases him - not even the noise of the vacuum cleaner. Marc is searching for his forever home, is it with you?

To find out more about Marc, visit: rabbitsanctuary.com.au/bunnies and search under Newcastle and Lake Macquarie regions

PETER PAN THE COCKER SPANIEL

Peter Pan is a water addict and can not be trusted around any body of water… not even a dog bowl! He is also ballobsessed, a sock thief, and an expert snuggler with a smile that lights up a room.

Favourite activities: Chasing his ball, snuggling,smooches and swimming, swimming swimming. Favourite toy: Loves to play with his ball, stick or Rexy (Dinosaur). Favourite treat: Chicken. Special talent: He can say I love you and good morning. He can also give you a high five.

Creating warmth and solace in a home

the use of textures, neutral tones and stand-out features. With the seemingly effortless inclusion of contemporary

the offer of plenty of seating

smooth

ooze both comfort and style in abundance. The secret is in combining elements that need to be touched into spaces

an array of light-filled reading nooks, country

shared.

Villas available now

Set on 17 acres of lush rural land, Cooranbong Gardens offers the lifestyle you deserve. This brand new boutique retirement community is placed perfectly between the pristine shores of Lake Macquarie and the magnificent Watagan Mountains.

Offering a selection of 2 and 3 bedroom spacious floor plans, with single or double garaging, we know that we can meet your every need.

Designed to provide you with all the facilities you need to bring variety to each day and

connect with other residents, The Gardens Pavilion will boast a relaxing lounge area, cafe and dining room, library, bar and snooker room, beauty salon, movie theatre, Indoor heated pool and hydrotherapy pool, outdoor covered BBQ area and bowling green. These facilities are an extension of your home and an ideal place to entertain your family and friends.

Stages 1, 2, 3 and 4 are now complete and sold out, with stage 5 under construction. For further information email Zac at sales@cooranbonggardens.com.au

Suburb

Profile: Kahibah

Pronounced

ky-yee-bah, meaning place of games, this Lake Macquarie suburb is home to 39 streets, with a mini-commercial hub at its heart. Sitting on the edge of Glenrock State Conservation Area, the former bushland is fast becoming a trendy shopping strip, thanks to the introduction of new eateries.

Boasting its own primary school, childcare, Anglican church, public playground, grocery store and bowls club, as well as several hair and beauty outlets, Kahibah sits atop a rise that offers space for all to meet on a warm evening. The suburb’s main street, Glebe Street, is home to several businesses including a post office, bakery, bottle shop, hairdressers, beauticians, butchers and podiatrist.

Perhaps the suburb’s only downfall is it tends to confuse drivers with its dog-leg intersection on the corner of Hexham, Kahibah and Wallsend streets - just ask a local.

HISTORY

The current suburb of Kahibah has no traditional connection to the Awabakal word or its actual locality. The site at Marks Point is said to have been a place where running and hunting games were held in traditional times and was a ceremonial corroboree site.

Kahibah became home to a railway station when the 1880-built coal rail line that ran from Adamstown to Redhead, was extended to Belmont via Kahibah in 1916. The rail line closed to all coal traffic in December 1992 and has since been redeveloped into a pedestrian shared pathway known as The Fernleigh Track.

FOOD AND DRINK

• Sherwood Coffee Bar

• The Little Boy

• Hilltop Fish and Chips

SCHOOLS

Kahibah Public School, founded in 1938.

REAL ESTATE

Median house price $1,150,000 (up 29.9% in the past 12 months).

Median unit price $802,000 (up 21.4% in the past 12 months).

There are currently eight homes for sale in Kahibah, 35 sold in the past 12 months.

Homes spend an average of 23 days on market before they are sold.

SOLD SOLD SOLD

37 BURWOOD STREET, KAHIBAH

13 NEWCASTLE CRESCENT,

2/7 KENIBEA AVENUE, KAHIBAH

more

to the

Dungog acreage could get your dreams back on track

Its real estate agent describes it as "a tourism venue with a difference".

Resting in a township famed for its railway that first opened in 1911, this unique accommodation site offers a range of getaway options, all in keeping with the landscape and heritage.

4426 CLARENCE TOWN ROAD, WIRRAGULLA

Surrounded by soaring gum trees, and spanning four paddocks, guests can choose from an array of accommodation options at this rural address.

There are enough beds to suit singles, families and friends.

Visitors can select one of the four rattler carriage stays and reminisce on the era of train travel or opt for one of two spa cabins overlooking the countryside.

A shared vegetable patch, inground pool, onsite commercial kitchen and cool room, restaurant, function room and open-air chapel with its own wedding bell, mean this property could allow its buyer to tap into the coveted wedding industry – with no guests left behind.

And, imagine all the puns you can use in your tourism brochure urging visitors to "get on board".

All this less than eight minutes from the township of Dungog, which is famed for its walking and cycling trails, quaint shops and hidden treasures.

Accommodation options include red rattler carriages offering four or six-berth accommodation, kitchenette, bathroom, lounge and dining, as well as spa cabins offering open plan kitchenette, dining and lounge, bathroom with spa bath, verandahs overlooking the countryside.

Quality the key in Macquarie Hills makeover

Given the current trade and building materials shortage, and rising costs, buyers might want to consider choosing a family home in which the work has recently been done - and done well.

32 DALMENY DRIVE, MACQUARIE HILLS

Tucked neatly between Warners Bay, Cardiff and Glendale is this entertainer’s delight that promises its owners little fuss thanks to a fresh renovation.

Stylish, modern and contemporary are all words that come to mind when you see this five-bedroom beauty that offers plenty of entertaining space, a swimming pool and a bush backdrop. "Neat as a pin" is another term you might choose, and it’s all thanks to a renovator with an eye for detail. Neutral tones, plush carpet, timber flooring, as well as tapware and tiling that’s ontrend, all in a suburb that’s central to sport, school and shops.

Apartments the real hero in Honeysuckle

It sold after being on the market just 15 days and it fetched $50,000 more than its price guide. And, while some market analysts insist on painting a picture of gloom and doom in the real estate industry, Newcastle agent Thomas Hook says apartment living is continuing to shine as the hero home concept.

602/25 HONEYSUCKLE DRIVE, NEWCASTLE

In this case it was a couple of local retirees wanting to downsize from their expansive suburban block, but Hook says it's often hobby farmers from the Hunter Valley wanting a city base or those who can’t afford beachside living but would love a water aspect. Either way, Honeysuckle is tempting buyers from all over the region who want to park the car in a secured apartment block and walk to everything the CBD has to offer, all along the water’s edge.

And, while this top floor, penthouse apartment boasting a double lock-up garage was an extraordinary option, Mr Hook says colleagues are already closing in on a deal on a similar-sized apartment on level one – this time just days after first advertising it.

Turning over a NU Leaf in the Hunter Valley

After pouring her energy into creating a space that could heal others, Nu Leaf Retreat owner Sarah Polson is now taking a step back to replenish. The impressive 14-acre rural property that she transformed into a health retreat over the past six years is now in need of a new custodian.

647 HERMITAGE ROAD, POKOLBIN

Boasting a 10-bedroom guesthouse, gym, indoor hydrotherapy pool, day spa, commercial kitchen, conferencing facilities, landscaped inground outdoor pool, boutique vineyard, machinery, shedding and sprawling country homestead sitting on 5.67 hectares, this address is a blank canvas, or a walk-in-ready profitable business.

It seems it's up to the buyer as to how much they want to make of what is already on-site.

Sarah saw a wellness retreat in her vision for the property. During her tenure, she managed to secure regular bookings for Pilates and yoga retreats, day spa, boutique accommodation and conferences.

Buying the builder's home in Mount Hutton

It was the builder’s forever home that had never been on the market. Constructed using quality materials, hands-on labour and a lot of love, this 35-year-old home was sold by private treaty at the weekend for a figure well above the suburb average of $785,000.

5 AUKLET ROAD, MOUNT HUTTON

Advertised as a great family home, complete with an inground lagoon pool - just in time for summer, this Auklet Road home sits atop a rise and boasts views that stretch beyond rooftops to Charlestown and neighbouring bushland. And, thanks to the timber deck that wraps around the home, the vista can be enjoyed from several vantage points.

four-car garage with a workshop area that could store an array of tools, would suit any tradie - unless of course the kids get to it first and transform it into an enviable games room. We can only guess what the new owners have planned for this well-built beauty.

Lauretta Morton

Lauretta is the first female director in Newcastle Art Gallery's 65-year history.

Born in London, she emigrated to Australia as a young child with her parents, older sister and brother.

Throughout her life, visual arts and leadership have been driving forces.

At 16, Lauretta was the youngest student to be accepted into Art School.

She is an Alumni of the University of Sydney, Macquarie University and University of Oxford.

"I feel so fortunate to be in a position where I can support and advocate for artists and the broader gallery and Museum profession,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.

“Providing opportunities for artists and cultural practitioners to foster and grow their careers is at the core of everything that I do, it is important to me to give back wherever I can.

"When I'm not working at the art gallery, I love to visit other art galleries and museums, there is always something new to learn and experience."

A favourite quote from American artist Robert Motherwell completely sums it up for me: "Art is much less important than life, but what a poor life without it".

Lauretta was awarded the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in recognition of "outstanding and meritorious service" to the museums and galleries sector in this year's 2022 Australia Day Honours.

SAILING

As the daughter of a merchant seaman, for many years sailing was a favourite part of my life. I've sailed on racing yachts, clippers, windjammers, and tall ships throughout the world. Being suspended across the bowsprit net under full sail is exhilaratingalthough sailing through the Strait of Malacca under piracy high-alert was something I wouldn't recommend - I genuinely thought my husband and I weren't going to make it through that experience alive.

ARTISTS

I have so many "pinch me moments" working with artists that I greatly admire. It was such an honour to be asked this year to "sit" for a portrait by one of my favourite local artists Rachel Milne.

One of my favourite works of art in the Newcastle Art Gallery collection is Life Burst 1964 by our city's own national treasure, John Olsen AO OBE. No matter how many times I see it - I can't help but feel immense joy at its boldly coloured, swirling, life force - much like the artist himself!

BOOKS

As an avid book collector, my sentimental favourites would have to be a series from the 70s - the Time Life Library of Art that my parents would mail order for me. These were influential when I was young, I studied the illustrations to make sketches on every piece of paper I could find based on the old masters from each volume.

INVESTITURE

Receiving my Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia at the Investiture Ceremony at Government House, Sydney from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales, was extremely special and one of my favourite days.

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No matter how far I have travelled around the globe, I just can't imagine living anywhere else. I feel so fortunate to live and work on the traditional country of the Awabakal people. There's nothing better than enjoying an early morning coffee with my husband and this view from the Awabakal Nature Reserve above Redhead Beach.

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amala Wildlife Lodge is an all-inclusive and interactive experience where guests encounter some of the world’s most incredible animals. Jamala provides guests with the unprecedented opportunity to connect with and learn about their magnificent residents such as rhinos, lions, monkeys and meerkats.

Sleep right next to a tiger in a Jungle Bungalow, wake up to a giraffe in a Giraffe Treehouse, or simply relax in the divine uShaka Lodge.

No matter which room you choose, Jamala offers guests a truly once in a lifetime experience. Tours, gourmet meals, fine wines and Moet Champagne included.