FREE SEP | OCT 2022 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS APLENTYACTIVITIES THAT 70S BUNGALOW OLDLIFEBREATHINGINTOHOMES POST OFFICE NEWY icon's makeover Costa Gardening guru digs deep to educate others
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In saying that, much has happened in the past 30 or so days, too.
Yes, the Knights should have finished higher on the ladder with their playing roster – and it’s disappointing they’re not vying for the 2022 premiership. But, remember, they are humans, who make mistakes like the rest of us.
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GRAPHIC DESIGN
However, our emotional, psychological and social well-being should always be front and centre, especially in this day and age.
The same goes for his squad, many of whom have local ties.
Rod Thompson
We respectfully acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which Newcastle Weekly is created and read, the Awabakal, Worimi and Wonnarua people. We pay our respects to the elders both past, present and emerging.
Unfortunately, it’s not deemed a “sexy subject” in the eyes of mainstream media. Sure, you read a story or two every now and again.
EDITOR
That also goes for any workplace or school situation. A kind word, or encouragement, might be a better way to handle it.
Naturally, people will struggle to understand “why?” but no-one ever knows what’s going on in the background of someone else’s life. It might be a simple comment, which triggers a response, or an impertinent post on Facebook.
And, I’m positive that Newton-John’s legacy will remain vibrant for decades to come, such was her aura.
They never enter the field intending to drop a ball or miss a tackle.
Green had done everything in the game, playing 162 first grade matches for the Cronulla Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters, Parramatta Eels and Brisbane Broncos, as well as representing Queensland in State of Origin. He also guided the Cowboys to their maiden NRL premiership in 2015.
Many a local youngster played the role of “Sandy” in theatre and school productions of Grease, trying to grab the attention of their beloved “Danny”.
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But, the outpouring of grief when it filtered through that Green had taken his own life, at the age of 49, was next level.
The entertainment world lost an icon in Olivia Newton-John while the sporting community awoke one morning to the shock news of rugby league legend Paul Green’s passing.
Rebecca Riddle
newcastleweekly.com.au4
Sadly, both deaths impacted thousands of people throughout the Hunter.
Rod Thompson
PUBLISHER Nicole Shelley
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COVER PHOTOGRAPHY
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When people slag off Newcastle Knights coach Adam O’Brien for the team’s poor season, don’t forget those barbs affect the members of his family probably more than it does the man himself.
It turned the focus onto mental health, which was timely given we acknowledged RUOK? Day this month.
Melanie Coggio
Until next month, keep smiling.
As well, he boasted a beautiful family. So, for all intent purposes, Green seemed to have “everything”. Yet, he wasn’t happy.
So, the next time you want to fire an insult at them, just refrain for a minute, and think about how it would affect you if a stranger did likewise to you.
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JOURNALISTS
The feedback we received from the relaunch edition last month was nothing short of overwhelming, so thanks for joining us on the journey.
Newcastle Weekly is published by Pepper Publishing Pty Ltd. Level 1, 116 Hunter Street Newcastle.
Candice Carlin
newcastleweekly.com.au 5 News 6 THE HUNTER PAYS ITS RESPECTS Newcastle residents honour Queen Elizabeth II 7 NURSES TAKE IT TO THE STREETS Union members continue their selfless campaign 10 MORE ASSISTANCE ON OFFER Maitland relaunches new support network Community 8 CELEBRATING OUR MEMORIES Lost Newcastle marks decade-long milestone 22 BEST OF THE BEST REVEALED Hunter Business Awards acknowledge success What's On292812 IRISH POP ICONS HUNTER BOUND IT'S LIGHTS CAMERA ACTION... AGAIN SOMETHING FOR THE KIDS The Corrs announce rare vineyard concert date Cinema Under the Stars returns to Newcastle Lots of activities during September-October break Bring a sense of serenity to your residence Lifestyle 363431 SPRING ON OUR DOORSTEP A RENOVATING JOURNEY THE PERFECT HOLIDAY VIBE Lee Sullivan urges gardeners to 'get growing' That 70s Bungalow breathing life into homes 31 36 Contents ON THE COVER Popular gardening guru Costa Georgiadis shares his love of the Hunter ahead of the Living Smart Festival. See cover story, page 14. School BusinessHolidays
She and her younger sister snuck past the barrier to get a glimpse of the monarch that had transfixed her family for generations.
6 NEWS www.plant
Her Majesty's legacy will live on
omayne Hoyle was just a young girl when she escaped the throngs of people gathered at Civic Park all vying to get a glimpse of Queen Elizabeth II at the Newcastle Art Gallery.
Queen Elizabeth II passed away aged 96.
that resurfaced this month when the world woke to the news of the monarch's death.
Treading on the no-doubt freshly tended garden beds the pair were determined to grab a peek at the woman who would live to be the world’s longest reigning royal.
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During her monumental reign she visited the former steel city four times, the first in February 1954.
On that occasion, she toured the city with the Duke of Edinburgh, arriving by train at Newcastle Station and being officially greeted at City Hall before visiting No.1 Sportsground, BHP Steelworks, Stockton and Newcastle Airport.
• PHOTOGRAPHY LIBRARIESNEWCASTLE ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
It is just a small memory of hers, but one
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“It was the biggest thing to happen in Newcastle at the time. Everyone was there. We were with our nanny – she was a royalist as well - and she let us get out of school.”
“We stood on the plants to get a closer look, and she [Queen Elizabeth II] did walk close by,” Romayne recalls.
“We were a bit naughty, my sister Simone and I, we stood in the garden just down from the fountain and I remember seeing her cut the ribbon for the Art Gallery.
There, they called on NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet to prioritise patient care and commit to a safer staffing model with a guaranteed minimum number of nurses and midwives on every shift.
“I work in emergency,” said Ms Hughes, the NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) John Hunter and John Hunter Children’s branch secretary.
Nurses, midwives continue their campaign for 'safe' conditions
“However, it’s just as frustrating we need to take such a drastic step.
“I just don’t comprehend where this government is coming from.
“They seem to be clueless – and without care for people." •
PHOTOGRAPHY COGGIOMELANIE ARTICLE THOMPSONROD
newcastleweekly.com.au 7 NEWS Get your furniture looking NEW again Providing yourbreatheupholstererstheEntrustmoreworkmanshipqualityforthan40yearsNewcastle&Hunter’spremiertonewlifeintooldfurniture.16AdelineCres,FletcherPhone 02 4955 7599 www.hansbuilt.com.au Restored back to its original look – or even better! Call the experts today… SUPPORTED BY: Club Macquarie, Argenton Sunday 16th 2pm–4pmOctober Tickets available at the door, or scan the QR code to purchase online SPRING SING-22 $15/PERSON $40/FAMILY A range of local ensembles. The esteemed classical guitarist, Matt Semmens. Our own prize-winning quartets. and midwives at Newcastle’s Civic Park, demanding action from the government. The local contingent marched from Nesca Park, in Cooks Hill, along Darby Street to the venue in the CBD. It’s our biggest fear as a nurse that someone is going to die because we cannot provide the care they need. That’s the chilling warning from Rachel Hughes, who joined a 1,000 fellow nurses
“This [action] is about ratios, not pay.
“As for the government, I don’t know if they’re blind and deaf.
“We are the only eastern state that doesn’t have them.
“I’m terrified patients will die in that [waiting] room, while waiting to be seen.
newcastleweekly.com.au8 COMMUNITY
“What I didn’t expect to find was that I have oodles of family connections with Newcastle as well," she said.
That group now has 70,000 members.
“I love it when people tell me how much the group means to them. I’m proud of it.
She does not play favourites with her memories though, each one a piece of a puzzle, Carol says, she is thrilled to be supporting
PHOTOGRAPHY: NEWCASTLELOST ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
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answer to her question, but it did lead to the formation of a group she originally hoped would allow “maybe a couple of hundred people” to share their memories.
For founder Carol Duncan, it’s been an unexpected journey of self-discovery.
“We know where all the big public photo collections are held, but what we were at risk of losing was that shoebox of old photos of our families in locations around Newcastle that go to the tip when Grandma dies because they’ve lost their context, and nobody knows who any of them are.”
And, it all started with a photo of a brick in the wall that surrounds Fort Scratchley. Carol wondered what the inscription was and put a call-out on social media. She never got an
Celebrating a decade of Lost Newcastle
“What we were at risk of losing was that shoebox of old photos of our families.”
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(Left, from top ) Fourth Street Boolaroo, photo: Allen Wright; Jennifer Kirby’s mother Kath and colleagues outside NCR photo: Jennifer Kirby. (Below, from top) Maitland Road, Mayfield, photo: Peter Skelton; Nobbys Road, 1960s, photo: Stephen Carter; Newcastle East PS End of school 6th class excursion '63 photo George Amanatides.
t’s sparked friendships, rekindled romances, led to long-lost reunions and can even boast a marriage in its ranks, and, last month, Lost Newcastle celebrated a decade of sharing memories.
After almost four decades, the Maitland Neighbourhood Centre has rebranded itself to encompass everything the organisation offers in its current environment.
“Although the doors were shut, due to health guidelines, we were here to help the community – physically, emotionally and
“We’re all extremely excited by the change,” she said. “I think being called a neighbourhood centre is very outdated.
transfers, and that kind of stuff, as well as food assistance in different areas.
“Even during the recent flooding, we just closed for two days… and that’s only because we couldn’t get into the building.
ssistance for residents throughout Maitland, and surrounding areas, is set to enter a new era following the launch of Maitland Region Community Support this month.
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mentally – in every capacity we could.
“But, we still undertook some phone
And, with dignitaries such as Maitland state MP Jenny Aitchison and Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold in attendance, manager Sarah Adams unveiled the latest incarnation of the service.
“Since COVID, we’ve been the primary forward-facing group open the entire time.
Community support in Maitland evolves into exciting new entity
“So, being known as Maitland Region Community Support is more aligned to our charter.”
ARTICLE THOMPSONROD
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“The initial shock turned to an opportunity. “I felt compelled to speak up and tell others as it helped me to determine what was the best course of progress in my cancer journey." THOMPSONROD
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routine check-up with a suspected kidney infection.
Lake Mac’s Shane Farrell joins The Long Run to assist charity
newcastleweekly.com.au 11 COMMUNITY
“My doctor also did a PSA test and, as it turns out, my infection was prostate cancer. I was only 49,” he said.
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In Newcastle and Lake Macquarie alone, about 360 men will be diagnosed this year.
ake Mac’s Shane Farrell was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. But, that won’t stop him from stepping out for The Long Run in September to raise awareness, and funds, for men impacted by the disease.
The event, staged during Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, encourages people to run, stroll or wheel 72km, while amassing financial assistance for Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia’s work in research.
After his father passed away at age 60 from metastatic prostate cancer, Mr Farrell received his own diagnosis in July during a
The 49-year-old will walk a significant distance with his beloved dog, Holly, all in the name of charity.
Now, Mr Farrell is determined to ensure other men know it’s not only an “old man’s disease”.
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MONDAY 26 SEPTEMBER
THURSDAY 29 SEPTEMBER
Become a Curious Kid and enjoy some fun school holiday experiments at the Wangi Library Creative Hub from 10am to 11.30am. Participants will take part in three separate
WHAT'S ON What’s On – School Holidays
Young People's Theatre in Hamilton is presenting Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS.
Young People's Theatre in Hamilton is presenting Disney’s The Aristocats KIDS. Based on the classic Disney film, this production features a jazzy, upbeat score and is a non-stop ride of feline fun, presented by the group’s youngest students. Directed by Kate Booth, the 30-minute shows will be performed at 11am and 2pm Tuesday to Thursday; 11am, 2pm and 7pm on Friday; as well as 2pm and 6.30pm on Saturday. The following week will include shows on Friday at 11am, 2pm and 6.30pm and Saturday 2pm and 6.30pm.
SATURDAY 24 SEPTEMBER
Children aged six to 11 are invited to a narrative fairytale adventure as part of the New Annual Festival. Enter an imaginative world through an immersive set where there’s the chance to encounter puppets, characters and riddles. The experience kicks off at 10am, 11am, 1pm and 2pm both Saturday and Sunday. It will last for 45 minutes with parents/carers required to stay in the theatre during the event.
Learn about the region’s wartime history through a unique, hands-on exhibition at Rathmines Heritage Centre. From 10.30am kids can discover the way 9 Squadron planes were launched using catapults during WWII in a free activity suitable for ages six to 12. Bookings essential. Gold coin entry.
TUESDAY 27 SEPTEMBER
experiments using household materials to create slime, sherbet and a lava lamp. The activities are ideal for kids aged six to 12.
On both Wednesday 28 September and Wednesday 5 October kids are invited to join the Little Scallywagz for an 11am or 12.30pm session of dancing and singing at the Wallsend Rotunda. Pack a picnic lunch, bring the whole family, and have a photo taken with your favourite character.
WEDNESDAY 28 SEPTEMBER
Aboriginal dance students from St Paul’s Catholic College will be hosting an interactive storytime event at Charlestown Library from 10.30am to 11.15am. The performance is based on the book My Lost Mob by Venetia Tyson, the story about an emu who has lost its mob. The free event is best suited for children aged three to eight.
Term 3 is over, winter sports are finished, and there’s a general lull in activity before the temperature rises and we make a mad dash for Christmas. If you’re wondering what to do with the kids to wear them out these September school holidays, we think we have a few ideas for you. You’re welcome.
Build a kite at a hands-on workshop at the Charlestown Library from 10am to 11am. All materials are supplied, suitable for ages six years and above.
SUNDAY 2 OCTOBER
The art activities will take about half an hour to complete, with several art stations to explore. Bookings essential. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Join children’s entertainers Catapult for a performance of ‘At the Beach’ at Rathmines Theatre on Friday and Saturday. Two onehour shows will kick off at both 10am and 12.30pm. The show is suitable for children aged three to 10 and is full of quirky humour, perfect family-friendly entertainment inspired by Roland Harvey’s picture book of the same name. Tickets are $9 children and $30 adults.
SUNDAY 9 OCTOBER
Wrap up the school holidays with a Sunday session at Lake Macquarie’s Museum of Arts and Culture in Booragul. From 1pm to 3pm, adults can enjoy a wine or beer while kids are kept busy running around on the grassed area. Musician Mark Henderson will be providing live music to gathered crowds while $20 will supply the materials needed to enjoy an art tutorial and cheese platter.
FRIDAY 30 SEPTEMBER
PHOTOGRAPHY: PRAZERDEASHLEYMCLEAN;RILEY ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA Join ‘Atforentertainerschildren’sCatapultaperformanceoftheBeach’.
Fridays are fun days at the Rontunda in Wallsend, with kids invited to play games, win prizes, decorate cupcakes and be entertained by the Superheroes and the Little Scallywagz from 11am to 2pm. The free event will also be held at the same time on Friday 7 October.
FRIDAY 7 OCTOBER
WEDNESDAY 5 OCTOBER
The Creative Arts Hub at Wangi Wangi will be home to BIG DRAW, an Artspace Pop-Up Workshop from 10am to noon. Young children and their families can enjoy art making inspired by the international drawing event BIG DRAW theme Come Back to Colour, guided by friendly art museum educators.
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Photos Candice Carlin Article Rebecca Riddle Costa Georgiadis says it's time we all got rewild
“With the narrative that’s out there, it’s very easy to get overwhelmed. My outlook is to inspire people to not get overwhelmed, to not get buckled by an urgency that feels too big.
For the avid Landcare Junior Ambassador, it’s about sharing his knowledge with those who might need the motivation.
“I like to think that every choice we make
The bearded icon spends a great deal of time in the former steel city and its surrounding suburbs, and it's no wonder he’s happy to divide his time between his home in Sydney with the connections he’s made in the“It’sregion.anamazing part of the world,” he“You’vesays. got a lake, beaches, mountains, locally-grown food, all that natural habitat on your doorstep and a young, or young-at-heart, community that values its environment.
“I don’t fall for the thought – well what’s one compost bin going to do when the world's got an environmental report that says we’re a trainwreck.”
The popular landscape architect and television personality will be in the Hunter later this month to headline Lake Macquarie’s Living Smart Festival.
Georgiadis means ‘of the earth’ or ‘person of the earth’, so that’s where it really all began," he explained.
H
“That makes for a good future for youAnd,guys.”although he has no immediate plans to get growing in our postcodes, he’s happy to travel up the highway to share what he has learned during his years spent in gardens.
It all stems from a passion that started in his youth.
Then during an Arts degree at the University of NSW a friend showed him a brochure of the landscape architecture course and he says it “ticked all the boxes” he was interested in.
“I exited off that freeway and I’ve never looked back. I just buckled in and put the pedal to the metal and now I’m privileged with the opportunities I get. “
newcastleweekly.com.au 15 COVER STORY
will also join a special program of free events to mark the reopening of Wallsend Library, sharing ideas from his first book Costa’s World published late last year.
working on in his bid to inspire others to appreciate everything nature has to teach Georgiadisus.
Costa is a big supporter of the Junior Landcare 'What's in your backyard?' campaign launched this month.
The lessons he shares, and his encouragement to "give it a go" are among the reasons Hunter residents have grown to welcome gardening guru Costa Georgiadis as one of their own.
It all forms a part of what he says is his new role.
“I see the storytelling aspect, getting messages out there, as something that I enjoy, something I’m fortunate enough to share," he said.
“I’m always excited and enticed by the capacity to add more layers, more knowledge and understanding to that storytelling.”
“I’m being a little educator in some ways,” he“I’msays.providing little glimpses for people to be hopeful, not to be overwhelmed.
is passion for the planet and his enthusiasm to find ways to make it better for all of us is infectious.
“I suppose it began with my grandfather.
“That’s the way I’ve always been. My parents, my sisters, my grandparents were always hopeful. They always said if you want something to happen, get out there, put the time in, and make it happen.
It’s just one of the many projects he is
“I’m privileged enough to travel on country and see what, not only our elders, but our sea and land rangers are doing, they’re doing such good work and knowing that they’re out there and doing their thing helps us to learn not to be possessive about our land.”Georgiadis insists a change in how we care for our planet is not only vital, but imminent.
newcastleweekly.com.au16
nature back to the forefront, understanding nature but letting nature lead," he said.
“One of the biggest things I’ve learned over
“I’ve ebbed and flowed with wanting to save the world, the whole world, but you can’t do it alone, you’ll get too tired, you’ll buckle - I see that happen with good people - that’s why I don’t underestimate any little detail and I don’t fall for the thought – well what’s one compost bin going to do when the world's got an environmental report that says we’re a trainwreck," he said.
“We have to step up, and every choice we make needs to be for the world we want to live in, and if that change goes against the status quo then you have to be an activist.
“Be active. If you’re passive, you’ll be“Beoverwhelmed.active-ifyou’re active you’re taking action, which means you’re a verb, because people doing something have hope. It means you’re doing something, and we needDoers,doers.”the 58-year-old reiterates, have hope.
“You’re hoping for those seeds to germinate, you’re hoping for that water course to connect, you’re hoping that cockatoo will spread those seeds," he said.
“But, the planet’s going to do what the planet’s going to do, we can do what we can do to help, or we can give up.
And, it is obvious to his fanbase that this is where he is meant to be right now.
His latest message revolves around
“Rewildingrewilding.isbringing
time is to only worry about things you can influence, and things you can change, and by doing that it will have a ripple effect on other things and other people and that change will build momentum,” he told the Newcastle Weekly
“Let’s face it, we’re not here forever, life is people, and planet and place, and our home is this earth.”
matters. Every little step we take and every dollar we spend and everyone we engage with and we interact with and support and hold space for, helps to build a better world.”
“I know too many children and I spend a lot of time with them, and they need us to teach them that everything matters.
“So, any opportunity I get I’m going to do something to show them it does matter and I won’t get overwhelmed by it.”
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(Opposite) Costa says it's time we all did our bit to get things growing. (Below) Rarely is the gardening guru seen in a yard without a chicken.
OPERA HUNTER, LAKE MACQUARIE CITY COUNCIL and MAP mima Present
newcastleweekly.com.au 17 COVER STORY
“I can’t affect totally what’s going on the wetlands in the far north but if I can affect five people here to do their bit and they can affect others to do their bit, together we can get some things done.
“We can’t hope things are going to get better with warm, fuzzy thoughts. The more actions we take, the more we can build a world where hope translates into results. Let’s face it, we’re not here forever, life is people, and planet and place, and our home is this earth.”
“The next step is letting Indigenous science and knowledge to lead, and that requires an effort. It takes people consciously allowing the space for that to happen,
“It’s not just about sitting at the table together but taking it beyond the table –that’s the future," he said.
holding space for that to happen. We can talk about it, we can even tick a box about it but we need to hold a space for it.
“I’m seeing that in lots of spaces and I’m conscious to help that through conversations.“Sometimes it’s hard to ask when you’re too busy in the cockpit. Maybe it's time for us to listen and be led. I don’t think we can move forward until these things are addressed, and recalibrated and understood.
“It’s time we take that knowledge from the past and imbed it into the lessons for theAnd,future.”it’s the future that in his own words “gets him up in the mornings”.
“I’d love to find a patch of land and work on a regeneration project, a bit of bush culture and a bit of land care, but for me the time doesn’t align right now, and I’m comfortable with that," he said.
The gardening guru also believes it’s time we learn to combine Indigenous lore with the laws of science to find better ways to care for the planet.
“For now, I’m happy with what I do and how I do it.”
What’s On - September
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BIG ART
OUT OF TOWN
WHAT'S ON
Newcastle’s Big Picture Fest kicks off on 30 September. The three-day event will not only showcase a plethora of talented creatives but will ultimately beautify the former steel city in a very big way. The large-scale art installation will see a selection of street artists paint murals at 20 sites spanning from Museum Park to Parry Street, in a spectacle festival director Katerina Skoumbas describes as "an outdoor exhibition". This year’s Big Picture Fest includes an opening night party on Friday 30 September at Playstate Curate on Union Street, walking tours hosted by Newcastle-A-Foot throughout the weekend, graffiti workshops with Up&Up Inspirations, as well as street art workshops with students from both TAFE NSW Newcastle and University of Newcastle.
SUSTAINABLE LIVING
After a two-year COVID-enforced hiatus, Lake Macquarie’s Living Smart Festival is set to return this September, with gardening guru Costa Georgiadis to headline the new-look event. From 23-25 September, the annual extravaganza will offer the community a chance to reflect on its commitment to sustainable living. Based at Speers Point Park, the festival weekend will kick-off with Friday night’s Feast for the Senses dinner under the stars, featuring locally and sustainably sourced produce, and conclude with a Living Together Festival, celebrating multiculturalism in the community, on Sunday. Activities will include workshops, demonstrations, market stalls, world music, international cooking classes, global gardens and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture and language sessions, as well as some environmental magic.
The Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival will celebrate its 20th anniversary exhibition from now until 25 September. The free, all-ages community event will feature an array of works, from large to small and serious to whimsical, from local and international sculptors. Pieces will be displayed across six indoor galleries, two vineyards, as well as in the townships of Wollombi and neighbouring Laguna. The festival is not-for-profit and run entirely by volunteers, with strong support from the local business community. This year’s best sculptures will take home a share of $32,000 prizemoney. And, in 2022, the festival will offer free tours for school groups as well as a 90-minute guided walk and talks from some of the sculptors. A coach will also depart Darby Street bus stop adjacent to Newcastle Art Gallery at 10am and returns at 5pm - book with Newcastle Art Gallery Society.
newcastleweekly.com.au 19 Experience the ancient creatures of your imagination coming to life on stage in this enthralling new show, just in time for the school holidays! It’s the perfect combination of theatrical puppetry, magic and charm! SAT 1 OCT - 10AM & 12PM | CESSNOCK PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE BOOK NOW! Call our Box Office on 4993 4266 or visit www.cessnockperformingartscentre.com.auPHOTOGRAPHY: GLOVERNICKLIVING;WILT ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
FOOD AND WINE
Celebrate spring in the Hunter Valley at this year’s End2End festival. Featuring more than 20 wineries and boasting events at four different venues, this one-day spectacle is set to showcase some of the region’s best food and wine. Tastings will be on offer at some of the country’s most delectable wineries, including big names such as Tulloch Wines, Peppertree, Tamburlaine, Lisa McGuigan and Hanging Tree. There will be opportunities to sample the latest spring releases and attend masterclasses with the experts. If wine isn’t your thing, you might prefer boutique beers from The Parched Crow Brewing Co, Ironbark Hill Brewery or cider from Cider House. Hosted by Ben Ean, Blaxland’s Inn, Cypress Lakes and Drayton’s Family Wines, the event will run from 10am to 5pm. Start at any venue and taste your way across all four sites with the End2End shuttle bus. Gourmet food will feature on the day’s itinerary along with an array of live music.
Twelve months of planning will come to the fore when New Annual returns to Newcastle from 22 September. The vibrant program of art, culture and creativity at the much-loved Civic Theatre will open with the Van Gogh Alive exhibition at Foreshore Park and follow with a cavalcade of dance, music, theatre, visual arts and Indigenous workshops across the CBD until 2 October. The 2022 line-up features Hunter and nationally-renowned artists delivering a mix of free, ticketed and family-friendly events. The breadth of the program is emphasised by its 14 headline acts including a contemporary dance performance created by internationally-recognised Australian choreographer Stephanie Lake, a musical showcase of award-winning and acclaimed First Nations performers, and a fusion of film-making and improvised community performance presented by Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation.
INNER CITY
PHOTOGRAPHY COMPANYFAMILYSCHWARTZ ARTICLE THOMPSONROD
But, to be honest, it’s just one of many developments the tourism and hotel entrepreneur hopes to unveil in the region in the next few years.
Historic Post Office to deliver the goods
“All of a sudden, the NSW Government purchased it for more than $4.5 million.
“The best way of preserving heritage is by sympathetically using the property.
“It would be a shame for it to be ruined
r Jerry Schwartz admits refurbishing the Newcastle Post Office to its former glory is his “passion project”.
“His wish was to put a nightclub there,” he
“Honestly, it would be a horrible use for such a beautiful building.
Not only is he renovating the historic premises in Hunter Street, the owner of the Novotel Newcastle Beach, Rydges Newcastle and Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, as well as the Hunter Valley Convention Centre and Sydney Brewery at Lovedale, plans to build the Madoo Indigenous Museum and a $30 million tennis academy and equestrian centre, both at Cessnock, and release his own whiskey entitled Two Doctors with good friend Professor John Rasko.
“It’s such an attraction,” Dr Schwartz said.
newcastleweekly.com.au20
“Rather than being a run-down shell, closed off to the community, our proposal will see the community totally engaged in theDrprocess.”Schwartz initially “got involved” with the post office through the previous owner of the building, a Cambodian businessman.
And, while he has enough on his plate, his focus will always be returning the Newcastle Post Office to its once mighty grandeur.
“Then nothing eventuated from the discussions.“Thepost office finally went to auction in 2010.“Iactually bid $3.3 million for it, the highest offer on the day, but it was passed in.
and turned into some sort of money -making“Restoringventure.such an iconic property will be complex but I have always stated my passion for the project.
“That was about 20 years ago.
“So, he asked if I could help him.
“I have a long personal history associated with Newcastle, having been a medical student here and then a major investor in the “Oncity.top of that, I believe Newcastle has enormous tourism and business potential, so it is essential that we make the most of the city’s prime assets.
“At that stage, I told him I didn’t think there’d be critical mass in Newcastle to establish such a venue in the CBD.
told the Newcastle Weekly
D
“The main colonnade will boast speciality shops, supporting the wedding market, with a function centre on the first floor that’ll attract conferences and banquets to Newcastle, which will help boost tourism andEvenemployment.”thoughDrSchwartz still has more hurdles to cross, he had to recently remove 1.2 tonnes of pigeon poo from the premises, he sees light at the end of the tunnel.
The Newcastle Post Office will now be repurposed into a hospitality hub and cultural venue.
“The vision has always been to convert it into a function centre,” Dr Schwartz said.
“It eventually went back to tender, so I took the opportunity to buy it [for $3.5 million].”
newcastleweekly.com.au 21 COMMUNITY LPG DRIVER VACANCY APPLICANT REQUIREMENTS Dangerous goods license. Current MC Drivers License. Rivet is an equal opportunity employer, and we encourage applications from diverse backgrounds. Please email resume orrecruitment@rivet.com.autoformoreinformation. THE RivetCOMPANYEnergyhas over 47 years’ experience being a national provider of LPG and liquid fuel logistics, including aviation refuelling services, for global oil and gas companies in key Metropolitan centres and Interstate routes throughout Australia. 30 RESERVOIR RD, GLENDALE PHONE: (02) 4954 4853 HIGH SCHOLARSHIPS.SCHOOL For details www.newcastlewaldorfschool.nsw.edu.au/scholarshipssee, WaldorfNewcastleSchool extends 103 years of Steiner education by offering HIGH SCHOLARSHIPSSCHOOL Photos: Year 11 music and sculpture
“Five years later, after the building remained in total dilapidation, the Awabakal Land Council (ALC) inherited it from the state government.
“By going to a tender process with the ALC, they not only looked at the price tag, but they looked at what the concepts were, too.
“Then, it should be another one or two years after that for the next stage.
“And, that was the last I heard about it.
“So, I’d like to follow our original plans.
“We’ll transform the basement into an Aboriginal cultural centre for the local Awabakal people – with artworks and a bush tucker café, for example.
“It’s been a slow process, due to many reasons, however I’m hopeful we’ll open the basement section in 2024 – that’s a realistic date,” he said.
“There’ll be a separate entrance off Bolton Street.
"It would be a shame for it (post office) to be ruined and turned into some sort of moneymaking venture ."
•
“I’m not expecting the post office to make a huge cash profit, it’s more of a morale profit for me.”
Innovative clothing manufacturer Borne Clothing took out Excellence in Micro Business.
The Carrington-based company picked up the region’s inaugural Business of the Year honour, as well as Excellence in Large Business and Excellence in Sustainability.
The family-owned and operated venture continues to lead in innovation and combining technological advances and sustainability into its practices, which set it apart from an impressive list of counterparts.
The winners were announced in 17 categories at NEX.
Out of the Square was acknowledged for its support for local entrepreneurial businesses and extensive patronage of community causes, which includes pro bonoBusinesscampaigns.Hunterpresident Tony Rhodes congratulated all winners and finalists on
Highly-commended, in that section, went to Aussie Ark’s Tim Faulkner.
“For the awards to attract so many quality entries was a real delight and surprise and a gauge on confidence for the prospects of the region looking ahead.
Maroba Aged Care CEO Viv Alanson walked away with the President’s Award.
Scott Lynch secured the much soughtafter Kristen Keegan Young Business Leader accolade, from Steven Fordham (Black Rock Industries), Kiraley Martin (Lake Macquarie City Council) and Alicia Floyer (Next Legal and Conveyancing).
he Hi-Vis Group is in celebration mode after scooping the pool at the annual Business Hunter 2022 Hunter Business Awards.
The organisation services more than 2,000 homes each week and has grown to a team of 90-plus people.
She was recognised for her outstanding advocacy and support for the sector, one impacted and challenged more than most others by the COVID pandemic.
It recognised his journey to establish Community Therapy in 2017 to serve the needs for better community and allied health access across, and now beyond, the Hunter region.
their determination, commitment and entrepreneurship in what had been another challenging time for owners and operators.
The Hi-Vis Group was accredited for its growth to become one of Australia’s largest manufacturers of road, safety and specialty custom signage and safety products.
“Winning a Hunter Business Award in any year is a significant achievement,” he said.
Camplify’s Justin Hales was named Business Leader of the Year in recognition of building one of the largest RV rental companies in Australia but also developing the concept, design, and technical roadmap to deliver an industry-leading solution for the RV rental industry.
“The past 12 months for businesses have demanded flexibility, versatility, courage and innovative thinking when you think back on the circumstances that have influenced and impacted the environment.
Hi-Vis Group scoops the pool at 2022 Hunter Business Awards
newcastleweekly.com.au22 BUSINESS PHOTOGRAPHY HUNTERBUSINESS ARTICLE THOMPSONROD FOR A FULL LIST OF WINNERS SCAN QR CODE WITH A MOBILE DEVICE.
“However, we must recognise the real challenges many businesses have faced over the past two.
It was a 12-month period in which resilience and innovation inevitably figured prominently in the judges’ deliberations.
•
Category winners celebrate their success at the Business Hunter 2022 Hunter Business Awards.
T
“The admirable qualities reflected in all of the finalists collectively demonstrate the strength and resilience of our diverse business community right across the Hunter.”
T
HOW DID YOU BECOME ‘THE AUSSIE RAPUNZEL’?
WHAT IS YOUR CONNECTION WITH NEWCASTLE?
I grew up near Maitland and I went to school at St Francis Xavier College.
I don’t measure it all the time but last time I did, it was one metre. My followers want me to grow it to one-and-a-half metres but I’m 175cm tall and that would be getting close to my height at that point. I’m not sure if I could do that. And you’d be surprised - now that it’s a metre there’s not that many hairstyles you can do. If I pull my
•
HOW LONG DID IT TAKE YOU TO GROW IT TO THIS LENGTH?
I usually say it’s taken seven years of just getting a trim but for the past three years I’ve been focussing on getting my hair healthy and thick.
YOU HAVE TURNED YOUR HAIR INTO A FULL-TIME BUSINESS. COULD YOU EVER HAVE IMAGINED THIS WOULD HAPPEN JUST BY GROWING YOUR HAIR LONG?
My online name started when I started on TikTok. The Aussie Rapunzel is unique to me because having long hair in Australia is not very common, or trendy. It started in
newcastleweekly.com.au 23 LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHY RAPUNZELAUSSIETHE ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
February 2020, everyone was in lockdown and there wasn’t much to do. A lot of people were already asking me what I do to grow my hair long and how I keep it so long. I had all these hair tips I could give people, but I just didn’t have the means to do so. When TikTok came out I thought I should just start giving hair tips on TikTok. I started by showing people simple tips they could do, easy things they could try, and it took off from there.
HOW LONG IS YOUR HAIR NOW?
wo years after she began offering tips for growing long, luscious hair, Newcastle export Sophie Jordan has amassed more than 1.3 million followers on TikTok in her role as The Aussie Rapunzel. Newcastle Weekly journalist Rebecca Riddle sat down with the 23-year-old social media sensation in a rare media interview to ask her how it all began.
Rapunzel, Rapunzel let down your hair
Boil some rosemary, spray it on your hair and sleep in it overnight, it’s proven to be great for hair growth. For shiny hair I use apple cider vinegar.
hair up into a ponytail I get a headache, and when I sleep I have to wear it in a plait or it will be everywhere, and when it’s out I sit on my hair.
It still blows my mind. I think about a stadium of people, seeing 1.3 million people in front of me is just crazy to imagine. I had a lot of people contact me after they had Covid to say that their hair had been falling out and affecting their confidence. When you’re really sick, your body is under a lot of stress, and this can happen. It was good to give some tips to these people and help build their confidence again. There’s nothing better than when you’re having a good hair day, or when you’ve just been to the salon, you feel so confident. If I can help someone feel that way then that’s great.
WHAT’S ONE OF YOUR SECRETS TO HAVING LUSCIOUS HAIR?
PHOTOGRAPHY KINGSLEYCRYSTALBROOK
Hot tip: Twist your garnish ingredients before adding them your cocktail. This will add subtle flavours and aromatics to your creation.
newcastleweekly.com.au24 RECIPE SUSTAINABILITY EVENT SATURDAY 24 sunDAYmulticulturalSEPTEMBERevent25SEPTEMBER World music and dancing Africanworkshopsdrumming Cultural demonstrationscooking Boomerangworkshopsmaking First Nations zone Homegrown markets Costa10am,Georgiadis11.30am Yoga in the park 9am Grow zone Native plant giveaway Sourdough station Upcycling workshops First Nations zone Homegrown markets Kids zone Free bus shuttles Speer Point Park from 9am-2pm livingsmartfestival.com.au Presented by Major event partner
dressing
RECIPE FROM MIXOLOGIST ARTHUR WYNNE, CRYSTALBROOK KINGSLEY
Method
of your Arrangeglass.your lemon
to
Romberg’s Barney Collins
For your garnish, use a peeler or paring knife to slice cucumber ribbons. Slicing you ribbons thin will help with flexibility when the glass. Gently spiral the cucumber around the inside zest and dehydrated very own Barney Collins.
Serves Ingredients1 45ml Chivas Regal 15ml House Akavit 30ml Wattleseed Syrup 2 Dash Citric Acid Top with Soda Garnish: 2x Cucumber Ribbon Slice 1x Slice Lemon Zest 1x Piece Dehydrated Dulse
Its rooftop bar is named after the building’s original architect Frederick Romberg and, in keeping with the theme, Newcastle’s iconic Crystalbrook Kingsley has named its latest cocktail after the Novocastrian responsible for reimagining the five-star hotel. Romberg’s Barney Collins is an ode to the local who loves landscape design and has a special fondness for whiskey. It is the brainchild of head bartender Arthur Wynne – best known for his sharp eye for quality, flare and creativity.
Stack a chilled high-ball glass with ice. Using a jigger, add your Chivas Regal, House Akavit, wattleseed syrup and citric acid. with your favourite soda and stir until combined.
Top
dulse to sit atop your
But, under his guidance, you will learn how to make his delicious healthy, raw Chuchenko dessert balls and mouth-watering Ukrainian soup.
The popular Boutique Beer Festival, commonly known as Bitter & Twisted, is the coming together of like-minded people to celebrate three great things – music, food and beer.
Immerse yourself in the food culture of Newcastle’s historic east end. Carefully selected chefs will prepare you a signature dish as you arrive and dine as a VIP guest.
The Global Table Collective, a recipient of the City of Newcastle Community Support Grants Program, brings people together around the table to share food, stories and recipes from diverse cultures.
It’s hosted annually on the first weekend in November within the walls of the former maximum-security prison, Maitland Gaol.
Visitors and locals alike can expect to experience more than 80 craft beer distributors, an eclectic range of music and entertainment as well as delicious food choices from all over the world. For all the connoisseurs, there's a variety of appreciation options, including meeting local brewers, and food and beer matching.
It all takes place, between 5pm and 8pm, at the Adamstown Uniting Church in Brunker Road. By purchasing a ticket for this event, you are also helping to support women from refugee backgrounds, wishing to start their own business in hospitality.
Your paired wine will be poured - and your bill paid. Just take a seat, enjoy the restaurant and the company you bring.
Sink your teeth into these Hunter Valley treats
Rendezvous at the first location and your journey will unfold along the way. Wander this historic part of Newcastle on a slow-moving feast where the only thing that doesn’t change is the quality of the food.
newcastleweekly.com.au 25 FOOD
He’s an experienced actor, television presenter and chef in his home country.
The East Feast Long Lunch is a self-guided food walk where dining’s an indulgent experience of four restaurants over one long lunch from 11.15am to 3pm on Saturdays.
There’s plenty of events to tempt your tastebuds in the region over the coming months. Here’s just a sample of the “goodies” on offer.
PHOTOGRAPHY UNSPLASHNAYMAN,MAX ARTICLE THOMPSONROD
UKRAINIAN COOKING CLASSES - 24 SEP
BITTER & TWISTED BOUTIQUE BEER FESTIVAL - 5 AND 6 NOV
And, on 24 September, learn to cook some traditional Ukrainian dishes straight from MasterChef contestant Yurii Chuchenko.
EAST FEAST LONG LUNCH - 24 SEP – 1 OCT
For more details, go to the Underground Epicureans website.
We love LED Light Therapy for its noninvasive skin rejuvenating benefits. Amazing for treating all skin types for maximum results with no downtime.
Our precious makeup brushes and sponges are a breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria. To help keep your brushes and your skin clean this spring, simply wash your brushes weekly in warm soapy water.
FALL IN LOVE WITH SPF
UNVEILING YOUR SKIN FOR SPRING
The change of season is a fantastic time to reassess your home care. A simple change in your cleanser and introducing a gentle enzyme exfoliant can help create a beautifully brightened skin.
Healthy glowing skin needs to be supported from the inside out. We love the results achieved from using a daily probiotic, quality omega oil and drinking loads of filtered water.
SAY HELLO TO LED
newcastleweekly.com.au26 BEAUTY Like our new approach? FREE SEP OCT 2022 SCHOOL HOLIDAYS APLENTYACTIVITIES THAT 70S BUNGALOW SENSE OF POST OFFICE NEWY icon's makeover Gardening guru digsdeep to educate others FREE THE RELAUNCH EDITIONUSSISIHT E S FORTHE COMMUNITY T U R N 6POT AUGUST 2022 NEW OWNERS PETS ADAM HADDOW A bubbly Connoisseur of life WE'REBACK CHANGINGPOOCHTRAINYOUR face of the city Jess Farchione Reach more customers by advertising with us. Isaac Whitten Advertising & Sponsorship 0493 445 173 | 02 4003 advertise@newcastleweekly.com.au444 PHOTOGRAPHY UNSPLASHCUROLOGY,
CLEAN YOUR MAKEUP BRUSHES
CHECK IN ON YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE
Protecting your skin daily with a quality SPF is the ultimate way to stop premature signs of ageing. When applying your SPF, be sure to include the back of your hands for extra hydration and protection.
WITH BLISS BEAUTY AND BODY FOUNDER ALICIA MACDOUGALL
SUPPORT YOUR SKIN FROM WITHIN
Winter is the harshest season on our skin. Cold blustery winds, hot showers and constant heating is undoubtedly a recipe for dry and damaged skin. Here are our top tips for glowing, vibrant skin.
newcastleweekly.com.au 27 FASHION
$299 Mister Zimi Gloro Cognacin$179.95 Nine West Gold ShapeMixedStellaRingPack$16.95 Sportsgirl Morana Linen Short $139 David Lawrence The Gigi in Sepia Tort $110 Studio Row Sun 100mlPerfume$69 Lush Soho Shirt in green $119.99 Sheike Flare Jean In Mid Blue $159.95 Bohemian Traders Pina Colada Earrings Petite Grand - Tash Bracelet14kt Gold Filled $187 Abicus CLUB TROPICANA With the sun lingering a little longer, it’s time to wake up your wardrobe with bold colours, playful patterns and fresh florals with a twist of citrus and accents of gold. Sancia The Osaka Mini Bag in Tan $369 Guanabana Designs
Tamara Dress In Fire Bloom
or one night only, Irish Celtic infused pop icons The Corrs are returning to the heart of the Hunter Valley wine country this year.
Irish music icons promise one memorable night in the Hunter
F
and Only When I Sleep In Blue featured their highest streaming ever.
Featuring The Australian Army Band Newcastle & The Waratah Brass Band SATURDAY 15TH OCTOBER 2022 AT FORT SCRATCHLEY To purchase tickets, phone the Civic Theatre Office on 02 4929 1977 or visit civictheatrenewcastle.com.au BYO Chair and Drinks TICKETS $25
presents MUSIC OF
The band, who has sold more than 40 million albums worldwide, will perform at Hope Estate – along with Wet Wet Wet, Aussie singer-songwriter Ben Lee and emerging artist Gaudion - on Saturday 26 And,November.tomake it a memorable evening, they’ll embark on a global first with 500 drones lighting up the sky that are synced to several of their key songs making the atmosphere truly remarkable.
PHOTOGRAPHY MEDIACORRS'THE ARTICLE THOMPSONROD
Breathless received a staggering 132 million plays on Spotify. •
newcastleweekly.com.au28 ENTERTAINMENT
incredible title track, the exquisite Heaven Knows and, of course, the smash single Runaway
Their second offering, Talk On Corners, led with I Never Loved You Anyway, So Young
Forgiven Not Forgotten gave us the
FORT HISTORICALSCRATCHLEYSOCIETY THE GUNS
Since their 1995 debut album crashed into the charts, The Corrs - Andrea (lead vocals), Sharon (violin, piano, vocals), Caroline (drums, piano, vocals) and Jim (guitar, piano, vocals) – have written some of the biggest hits of the past three decades.
newcastleweekly.com.au 29 ENTERTAINMENT 14 \16 OCTOBER 2022 THE WAIFS DARYL BRAITHWAITE THE BLACK SORROWS THE WOLFE BROTHERS & MANY MORE!WINGHAMMUSICFEST.COM.AUWINGHAM NSW GetTicketsFestivalyournow!
Newcastle Permanent chief executive officer Bernadette Inglis admitted after the pandemic called “cut” on the event, the organisation was looking forward to instead saying “lights, camera, action” in 2022.
The movie, featuring the voices of Hollywood superstars Reese Witherspoon, Matthew McConaughey and Scarlett Johansson, is due to begin from sundown.
Cinema Under the Stars set to shine again at King Edward Park
There will also be food options – serving everything from snacks all the way up to hearty dinner options.
ne of the Hunter’s most treasured annual events is returning to King Edward Park next month, with Newcastle Permanent rolling out the red carpet for a special Cinema Under the Stars.
“Cinema Under the Stars is always so wellreceived by the community, with thousands of people of all ages coming along to enjoy a night of fun and laughter – and popcorn, of course,” she stated.
O
After two years of COVID-enforced hibernation, the film-fan favourite is back on the calendar – on Saturday 22 October – with the feel-good animation Sing 2 (PG), which is sure to have everyone getting into theKickinggroove.off at 5pm, the jam-packed evening of family-friendly entertainment will also include music, free children’s activities, roving acts and free popcorn.
•
PHOTOGRAPHY PERMANENTNEWCASTLE ARTICLE THOMPSONROD
TAKE A TOUR WITH US Aldinga Tours Your Personalised Travel Companion www.aldingatours.com.au Family owned and operated Over 28 years experience Contact office 4950 5050 PAUL & BARB enquiry@aldingatours.com.au DAY EXTENDEDTOURSTOURSCINDERELLA THE MUSICAL 30th November, 2022 • Cost: $120pp Award winning Broadway musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein. NORFOLK ISLAND 26th March – 3rd April 2023 Cost: $3895pp/ts • Single Supp $780 extra YOUNG AT CHERRY TIME 2nd – 4th December 2022 Cost: $740pp • Single Supp $200 extra MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER SHOW 27th March – 1st April 2023 Cost: $1950pp/ts • Single Supp $550 extra GOAT ISLAND CONVICT, CASTLES & CHAMPAGNE 23th Sep 2022, 26th Nov 2022 • Cost: $170pp Includes Luxury Coach Travel, Lunch, Guide Tour & Cruise. ADELAIDE & KANGAROO ISLAND 17th – 26th October 2022 Cost: $3340pp • Single Supp $770 extra MELBOURNE & AVALON AIR SHOW 2nd – 7th March 2023 Cost: TBA OP SHOP BARGAIN HUNT 15th – 18th March 2023 Cost $1120 pp/ts • Single Supp $300 extra
UNDERSTAND YOUR CLIMATE AND PLANT IN SEASON
ENJOY THE JOURNEY AND DON’T LET FAILURE PUT YOU OFF
SOIL
You will not have a perfect run. Gardening is all about learning from experience and soldiering on. Some of the greatest lessons you will learn about growing will come from the most epic failures. The main thing is that you just keep on going and commit to enjoying the journey.
W
When deciding what to plant, it is important to consider your climate and research what is in season. Spring is an amazing time to plant in our region. Things you can plant now include tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, eggplants, chillies, beans, corn and capsicum to name a few.
PLANT FOR POLLINATORS
The soil you use in your garden will have a direct effect on whether your vegetables thrive. Healthy soil will produce healthy plants. It can be tempting to go and buy cheap bags of soil to save money but please don't. Buying good quality soil full of organic matter is an investment into the future of your garden. A good option is to locate a local soil provider and order from them. Most places will have an organic soil mix specific for vegetable gardening. If that’s not possible, you can buy bags of high-quality organic soil and a few bags of compost and sheep or cow manure.
Gardening is all about learning from experience and soldiering on.
Positioning of your garden is crucial to your growing success. Vegetables need sun and lots of it. Choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight a day. Basically, find the sunniest area in your yard and put your garden there.
newcastleweekly.com.au 31 GARDENING
PHOTOGRAPHY SULLIVANLEESTOOP;PETER ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
Your patch needs pollinators. Encouraging bees and other pollinators into your garden will result in quality produce and lots of harvests. Plant flowers and herbs that they love such as basil, lavender, borage and marigolds.
SUN
toSpringmeansit’stimegetgrowing
ith spring on our doorstep and the price of food increasing, there has never been a better time to start growing your own food. If you have no gardening experience, it can feel overwhelming and sometimes outright impossible but the good news isit’s not. Urban Veggie Patch founder Lee Sullivan is a firm believer that anyone can grow their own food, even those with the "blackest" of thumbs. All it takes, she says, is some solid prep work and anyone can be on their way to producing delicious, nutrient-dense produce, saving money and feeding the whole family.
Being an indoor cat does not mean that your furry friend can’t ever go outside again. Outdoor time can be provided using cat enclosures or cat-proof fencing so that they can get some fresh air and soak up some sun, all while being safe from danger and disease. Some cats can even be trained to explore outside on a harness.
ENSURE YOUR CAT IS DESEXED
As the temperature rises, feline intake at RSPCA NSW increases by eight times, and up to 500 kittens can come through our doors each week. In just two years, a pair of undesexed cats can lead to 20,000 kittens. Desexing is vitally important to prevent unwanted pregnancies and keeps your beloved feline friend healthy.
CATS NEED TO SCRATCH
MICROCHIP YOUR CAT
PROVIDE ENVIRONMENTS TO HIDE AND EXPLORE
RSPCA NSW has shared some tricks on how to ensure your feline friend stays happy and healthy. But, if you’re on the fence about having your cat inside, the below tips might help you.
TIMING IS EVERYTHING
RESPONSIBLE OUTDOOR TIME
If you don’t provide your cat with scratching surfaces, they will find their own (most likely your furniture). Some cats prefer horizontal scratching surfaces, others vertical, and some like both.
PHOTOGRAPHY UNSPLASHHAN,ERIC
Whether your cat already lives inside or you’re beginning the transition process, it is vital to register and microchip them, should they escape or become lost. Cats can often go unclaimed from shelters and pounds, as there is no way to contact their owner if they have no form of identification.
Cats are middle-order predators, which means they can be both predator and prey. This explains a lot of their behaviour – they need to hunt, but they also need to feel safe and are always prepared to run, hide, get up high and fight to defend themselves if required.
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Transitioning to staying at home will take time, so remember to take it slow and be patient. Allowing your cat plenty of time to get used to a new routine can help minimise frustration and increase your chance of success. It can help to start by keeping your cat inside at night and gradually increasing the time they spend at home during the day. Taking advantage of times when your cat will naturally prefer to be inside can also make the transition easier.
Top tips for feline fine
#newcastleweeklyCATHYTHEMINIDACHSHUND
Favourite activities: Snoozing in the sunshine, climbing stuff and hanging out with her best friends Patty and Mr David.
Special talent: Finding food where there is not meant to be any food.
Basil, a three-year-old white and tan Whippet, is the most gentle angel on the planet!
Favourite toy: His favourite toy is a green squeaky throw toy, or anything that squeaks.
Favourite treat: Anything, but particularly our meat scraps. Special talent: Cinder does lots of tricks. She will sit, drop and roll over as well as shake hands and give a high five.
Favourite activities: Basil's favourite activities include going for walks, a drive in the car, visiting his Nanny and human friends, playing with his other fur friends, cuddling with Mum and Dad and sleeping.
Favourite toy: Loves to play with her ball or any toy she can catch and fetch.
Special talent: Sitting, shaking hands and responding to queues "where’s your toy?" and "where’s your jumper/shirt?"
BASIL THE WHIPPET
CINDER THE STUMPY TAIL CATTLE DOG
Favourite activities: Jumping in the pool, going to the dog park and playing ball.
Elsa is sweet girl who likes being around people. She enjoys pats and curling up in the crook of your arm to have a nap. She will cuddle with you on the lounge for hours. She is curious, confident and polite. Elsa would be suitable for many homes that can keep her safely inside. Elsa came into Port Stephens’ pound before being taken into foster care. Elsa lives peacefully with another foster cat, however they are not best friends and prefer to ignore each other around the house. She has met one dog before and was tolerant but a little wary of him if he was too close. Elsa has not met any children but would be lovely with kids.
Favourite toy: A large squeaky snake. Favourite treat: Street chippies - which are hot chippies found on the street.
ELSA THE INDOOR CAT
Cinder is an Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog and is seven years old. She is very active and loves to go for walks and to the dog park. She doesn’t like her humans getting too far apart and will round them up if someone is lagging. She is very smart and easily learns new tricks.
Don't let the side eye fool you, Cathy is a sweet and gentle little dachshund. Cathy is a lady of leisure... mostly. When out and about she loves to climb stairs, play in puddles and scale whatever she can to be tall and robust.
To find out more about Elsa, hunteranimalrescue.com.au/adopt/elsa/visit:
Favourite treat: Basil is an exceptionally picky eater. He does enjoy most human foods that mum and dad eat though.
newcastleweekly.com.au 33 PETS
For the chance to have your furry friend featured, tag us in your pet’s pics on Instagram
AVA BLE FOR ADO ION
Pets of the month
“And, it definitely all stemmed from theIt’sarches.”aventure that could have had a very different outcome if the pair had listened to advice from others.
That’s when the couple’s style concept wasIt’sborn.notquite
the Northern Beaches couple an exclusive viewing.
“I remember straight away thinking the bar was the centrepiece of the whole reno. It jazzes up the room and, all of a sudden, I loved the wallpaper," Nina said.
And, it's something that she is constantly reminded of throughout the process.
Perched high above the sprawling Lake Macquarie suburb, the two-storey doublebrick home already boasts views, privacy, and dual-access, as well as what its new owners say are “good bones”.
Combining his carpentry skills and her creative flair, the 20-something-year-old couple are breathing new life into "the old lady", as they fondly refer to her, and they’re documenting the journey via their social media page ‘That 70s Bungalow’.
“There are touches of that era but it’s not too full-on, it’s more of a subtle 70s,” Nina says.
“We did the bathroom and I tried to marry it to the arches and the green [of the lounge room]," she said.
t’s a renovating journey that began in 2020 with a lairy green loungeroom and its eye-catching bar.
It was the centrepiece, the piece deAnd,resistance.that’sexactly what it will become when recently-engaged couple Nina Meehan and Dylan Chant complete their Charlestown makeover.
“It was the lounge room that sold it to us, and the bar especially.
Their captivation with the address began on a whim when lockdown forced the cancellation of an open home, allowing
I
newcastleweekly.com.au34 HOME
“The character of an old home is usually hit or miss, sometimes it's older and it needs a lot of work but there isn’t a space that really captures you," Nina said.
“Every house is different in terms of character. This one had old wallpaper everywhere, and exposed brick. It was hard to see past all that craziness.
Yeah Baby! Digging that 70s bungalow
PHOTOGRAPHY MEEHANNINA ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
“You need something in the house to capture you. You need to feel all the work ahead will be worth it.”
crochet blanket, green linoleum, shag pile rug, lava lamp concept, but rather the pair are hoping to keep some of the home’s heritage while modernising its feel.
Featuring arches, brass fixtures, sea-green glass tiles and large square-patterned paisley wallpaper, it was a fixture that sat proudly above its sunken, conversation pit and commanded attention.
“I think as we were getting rid of old stuff, we were understanding the character of the home more.
"You need to think it’s cool now but later it will be amazing.”
SEE MORE SCAN THE QR CODE WITH A MOBILE DEVICE.
PHOTOSHOP
We had to start on the bathrooms, they were leaking, so we had to get straight on to that. There was a time when the tiles were popping off the walls.
weekends doing. At least with painting, I don’t like it but it’s rewarding in the end. When you’re trying to save money it's something you can do yourselves.
newcastleweekly.com.au 35 HOME Raise, re-level and re-support your home with Mainmark’s cost effective, non-invasive solutions. For an obligation free, expert opinion contact us 1800 623 www.mainmark.com312 Mainmark Ground Engineering Pty. Ltd. NSW Building Licence No. 288848C
As a visual person I have to create mock-ups of a room on Photoshop. I’ll take a photo of a space and then erase things and layer on elements so I can get a feel for it. That’s what we did for quite a few of the spaces. It helps me to know how that space is going to tie into the rest of the house.
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Cracked wall?
START WHERE NECESSITY CALLS
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Remember all that rain we had? That meant this area became priority number one.
We try to do as much as we can ourselves, but there are some things we’ll always leave to the qualified; like tilers, plumbers, electricians and, even, plasterers. We did our plastering once and it is not fun. Putting the sheets up, the coats, the patching… it’s the one thing I don’t want to spend my
Bring a sense of serenity to your home this season by adding some smooth textures, natural fibres and colours inspired by a trip to the beach. Think sand dunes, seashells and saltbush sage, teamed with rust, wood and straw. Let in some soft light and welcome the spring breezes for the perfect holiday vibe.
newcastleweekly.com.au36 HOME
Acacia 2 Drawer Console $999 Empire Furniture Newcastle
COASTAL CALM
WITH KRISTEN TIANANGA FROM THE COASTAL ABODE
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Ibiza Tribal Stool $489.50 Yak and Yeti Trader
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PHOTOGRAPHY TIANANGAKRISTEN
newcastleweekly.com.au 37 Bronte 3 Seat Sofa $2,499 Lounge Lovers Shell Collection in Black $322 Common Circus Eva fromVase$29 Edde Kubo Throw Sage $130 Daisy Grace Eva Marble Tray $35 Target Travel Home Book by Caitlin Flemming & Julie Goebel $65 Drift Home and Living Miro Dining Table $2,699 Freedom
The two-bedroom, one-bathroom home that sits quaintly on a 266 sq/m block was listed with Green Street Property's Josh Mana and Peter Aloupis who, coincidentally, was the previous owner of the charming weatherboard cottage.
It drew a lot of attention during its three-week sales campaign and not just because it belonged to Newcastle artist Mitch Revs. The Glebe Road home, purchased in January 2021 for $795,000, had undertaken a major renovation, transforming it into a stylish, modern home that showcased its original heritage features.
An outdoor pool and spa, indoor-slash-outdoor entertaining area with pizza oven and built-in barbecue, options for slow combustion fireplace in winter or sunshades in summer – they’re all elements deliberately designed to appreciate the native garden surrounds, paddocks, and majestic Corrabare State Forest.
35 CANNING STREET, WOLLOMBI 2325
With six adult children between the pair, Bernie and Jo knew the 4.4 acres, just over an hour from Newcastle, would eventually be a hit with their grandchildren.
55 GLEBE ROAD, THE JUNCTION 2291
The property has plenty of space for big toys, with a double carport, shelter, tool shed and double bay farm shed. There is also a two-storey studio on-site, fitted out for weekender use with a wet area, kitchenette, two bedrooms, and outdoor undercover area.
They built their forever home to be just as they’d always wanted – loads of entertaining options to suit any season. North-facing and open-plan, the four-bedroom, two-bathroom was designed to offer plenty of nooks to serve different purposes, all offering views of the magnificent surrounding countryside.
Wollombi couple to farewell acreage
newcastleweekly.com.au38 PROPERTY
Outgrown by Mitch and partner Emily when their twins arrived in 2021, the central cottage within walking distance to Bar Beach, The Junction Shopping Village and a plethora of restaurants and cafes, needed to change hands, which it did at auction for $1.5 million - $500,000 more than expected.
Mitch Revs' home sells for $1.5 million
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15 Johnstone Street, Cardiff 3 2 2
15 Woodlands Drive, Thornton
15 Johnstone Street, Cardiff
Filled with contemporary style thanks to a top-to-toe renovation, this home is a standout for day-to-day functionality and a relaxed indoor/outdoor lifestyle.
Price Guide: $1,450,000
An easy-going vibe and daily functionality go hand-in-hand in this fresh, bright, and inviting home. A generous 3-bedroom footprint includes separate living, sitting and dining areas, all aspects of this home are bound to impress.
Price Guide: $780,00 - $800,000
44 Raglan Street, Wallsend
0413 452 stephanie@daltonpartners.com.au297
4 2 6 3 2 2
15 Woodlands Drive, Thornton
44 Raglan Street, Wallsend
STEPH JORDAN
When you arrive at this property, the sense of peace, permanence, and privacy is unmistakable. Positioned on a stunning parcel in the prestige Woodlands Estate, this expansive family retreat blends space with style and seclusion.
Price Guide: $785,00 - $835,000
Looking to sell or lease your property? Call us today! WE WORK WITH PROPERTY OWNERS, BUYERS AND RESIDENTS TO FIND, NURTURE, GROW AND PROTECT THEIR INVESTMENTS hello@greenstreet.com.au | greenstreet.com.au
Belle Property Newcastle 02 4081 Backedbelleproperty.com.au/newcastle0000byBelleProperty’spremium national network of real estate specialists, Anthony Di Nardo and his team at Belle Property Newcastle offer high-quality, boutique real estate services from 130 Parry Street, Newcastle West. Whether you’re buying, selling, renting or investing in the Newcastle area, our team of real estate experts look forward to leveraging their knowledge and understanding of the local market to help you achieve your property goals Findsooner.out how Belle Property’s premium approach to property delivers outstanding outcomes – contact us today. Anthony Di Nardo 0416 007 @belleproperty.comanthony.dinardo504 Belle Property Newcastle knows your market.
Local experience that sets us apart. Bringing premium outcomes to your neighbourhood Sold Price Undisclosed 905/335 Wharf Road, Newcastle Sold $955,000 7 Melanie Close, Jewells Sold $685,000 87 Maryland Drive, Maryland Sold $930,000 307 Grandview Road, Rankin Park Sold $775,000 30 Walumbi Avenue, Tingira Heights Sold $730,000 40 Seaton Street, Maryland Sold $780,000 59 Grandview Road, New Lambton Heights Sold $910,000 25 Whitton Street, Wallsend Sold $680,000 27/4 Langdon Way, Mount Hutton Anthony Di Nardo | 0416 007 504 Daniel Chalhoub | 0405 274 271 Jake Mackay | 0430 283 293 Laura Strong | 0447 693 777 Nick Townsend | 0400 292 Ifbelleproperty.com/newcastle035you’reconsideringsellingcontact the team at Belle Property Newcastle today for your free appraisal.
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newcastleweekly.com.au 45 MY FAVOURITE THINGS PHOTOGRAPHY TRAYHURNSAM ARTICLE RIDDLEREBECCA
I feel lucky to be able to list work as one of my favourite things. Through Chuffed, I get to spread joy through roller skating, and because I know what skating has done for me, I know how much positivity it can bring into people’s lives. l am so grateful that we can give back to the community through events and programs, donate part of our profits to charities, and directly support skaters to do what they love. It’s the coolest job in the world.
TRAVEL
Sam was born on Bundjalung Country in QLD and has lived in many places along the East Coast, always within a stone's throw of the ocean. She studied communications at university, and eventually went on to get her Doctorate in Creative Writing. She loves creativity in all its forms, whether that be putting words on paper, or moving her body on eight wheels. She has been roller skating for the past decade and, after finishing her thesis, decided to start her own roller skate company, Chuffed Skates.
ROLLER SKATING
Founder of Newcastle-based roller skate business Chuffed Skates.
Recently my partner John and I got a puppy, and we joke that he is our baby. Anyone who follows me on Instagram wouldn’t let me get away with not listing Koko, as I post about him fairly constantly. He is a four-month-old Labradoodle, and I love that he has given us even more reasons to get outside. Our favourite part of our daily routine is walking him at Redhead Beach every morning.
WORK
“We’re proud to use our business to push forward issues we really care about,” Sam says.
She was surprised to find that business could be just as much of a creative outlet as writing a novel and is enjoying growing her Newcastle-based company into a globallyrecognised skate brand that gives back to the community.
MY ANDPARTNERMYDOG
Surfing is my down time. Unlike skating, I don’t really have any goals or expectations, and it’s not linked to my work when I surf. In the ocean I can switch off, connect to nature, and just be. It’s like meditation and really centres me.
SURFING
Going to new places really fuels me creatively. John is from Colombia so this year we could finally go back and see his family after COVID lockdowns. I love being in another country, especially if I am speaking another language most of the time – it's like I get to access another side of my brain. This year some of the Chuffed Skates team and I also got to go to the USA for an event. I competed in my first skate competition. It was terrifying and exhilarating.
Sam Trayhurn
Since launching, Chuffed Skates has supported several charities in the Hunter including The Asylum Seeker Centre, The Indigenous Literacy Foundation, Orange Sky Australia, Black Rainbow, The National Homeless Collective’s ‘Period Project’ and Seed Mob.
This is a bit obvious, but I couldn’t live without my skates. They give me access to all these amazing things I can do with my body, they are my outlet when I feel stressed, and most of all they are the way I feel most free.
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