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THE LATEST ATM SCAM
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APRIL 3 2013 WWW.NEWCASTLEPOST.COM.AU
PROUDLY INDEPENDENT PH: 49 610 310
Our waiting game Parents shocked by lack of daycare spaces and long wait lists TRICIA MOROSIN
O
pposition Leader, Tony Abbott, last month called for an inquiry into childcare in Australia, only to be oneupped by Federal Childcare Minister, Kate Ellis, with the promise of a $1.3 million Child Care Flexibility Fund and a payrise for childcare workers. Unfortunately, these pre-election promises will do little for the many Hunter parents anxiously waiting to see if their children will make it into daycare. Merewether mother, Melissa Hayles, went through this painful process with her two sons Archer (3) and Emmett (18 months). At 20 weeks pregnant she put Archer’s name on waiting lists, but still hasn’t found a place for him after 12 months on maternity leave. “It was really stressful, especially as the time got closer to go back to work,� Ms Hayles said. “When I put his name down, some people even asked ‘Was I pregnant?’ – so people are putting their names down before they’re even pregnant because the wait lists are so long.� Last month, Ms Hayles was shocked to receive a placement offer for Archer – only two-and-ahalf years after putting his name down. Erin Brown from Valentine is currently pregnant and also mistakenly thought she was getting in early at 20 weeks. “They said ‘No, you’re actually too late’,� Ms Brown told the Post. “It’s scary and there are so many things to do at this point that the last thing you want to worry about is something that won’t happen for another nine months.� Newcastle Councillor and mother of three, Nuatali Nelmes, said it is extremely difficult to secure a place in the 0-2 age group and there needs to be “more done to encourage the industry�. “[The reality is] you can earn more money working in a carwash than being a childcare worker,� Ms Nelmes said.
GRANTING WISHES Local not-for-profit organisations are being encouraged to get in quick and apply for a grant of up to $5,000 to support their volunteers, as part of the Federal Government’s Volunteer Grants program. “The Volunteer Grants are one of the most popular funding programs, with many local volunteer organisations having received a funding boost through this stream,� Charlton MP, Greg Combet, said.
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WE GO GREEN! The Post marks new service in Lake Mac PAGE 3
A FAMILY AFFAIR Siblings take top places in ocean swim event
Melissa Hayles with her two children, Emmett and Archer
Her advice is to get in early, consider babysitters and don’t be afraid to ask friends and family for support.
“You really need to think outside the square sometimes to muddle through,� she said. @triciamorosin
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