Newcastle and Lake Macquarie | September 2017 by INTOUCH MAGAZINE

HELLO CELLO

Leading European Duo Take on Young Aussie Premiere From Carnegie Hall to the Concertgebouw, audiences are raving about cellist Nicolas Altstaedt. The young German-French maestro is the must-have artist on everyone’s playlist, recently adding a BBC Music Magazine Award to his vast swag of prizes. On 28 September 2017, he visits Newcastle for Musica Viva, joining acclaimed pianist Aleksandar Madžar in a history of the great cello sonatas, from Brahms and Debussy through to a world premiere by young Adelaide composer, Jakub Jankowski. Nicolas Altstaedt is one of the most sought-after and versatile artists today. Born in Heidelberg to a German father

fantastic idea that if we do an Australian tour, there has to be and French mother, his accolades are too numerous to list an Australian piece in it. This is how society is created and how in full. A recipient of the Borletti Buitoni Trust Fellowship in a culture develops.” A cellist himself, Jankowski’s recent Octet 2009, he won the Credit Suisse Young Artist Award in 2010, was a resounding success at the 2017 Musica Viva Festival. was a BBC New Generation Artist from 2010-2012 and “I wanted to bring something I knew well,” says Altstaedt of has performed under conductors from Sir Roger Norrington the Debussy. “And I’ve always loved the Three Pieces by Nadia and Vladimir Ashkenazy to Sir Neville Marriner and Joshua Boulanger, which were composed at the time of the First World Weilerstein. War. I’ve never understood why they’re not mainstream cello The brand new Elbphilharmonie Hamburg chose Nicolas repertoire. To me, it’s music on the same level as Debussy and as Artist in Residence for 2018-19, and he is also ‘Artist Franck.” He rates the Britten Sonata as one of the century’s in Spotlight’ at the Concertgebouw Amsterdam. His recent recording of CPE Bach Concertos won the BBC Music Magazine finest, adding: “I’m a huge fan of Britten, and I also love his personality as a performer.” Concerto Award 2017. The Brahms F major Sonata is no less challenging: “I played His touring partner, the acclaimed Serbian pianist it a lot at one point, then less and less because you see how Aleksandar ‘Sasha’ Madžar, is equally impressive and a muchloved visitor to our shores. He holds professorships at the Royal big the piece is and how small you are!” he acknowledges. Conservatoire Brussels and the Hochschule für Musik in Bern, “But now I want to reach out to a piece that is so high it automatically makes you grow.” is a popular soloist with orchestras such as the Royal and BBC Besides Sasha, Nicolas has another vital performance Philharmonics and has given recitals around the globe. partner: his 1750s Giulio Cesare Gigli cello, which he has The pair were such a hit at the 2015 Musica Viva Festival played since 2013. “I had to return the beautiful Nicolas that they were immediately asked to return for a national Lupot cello that I had on loan,” he says, “because it was from tour. “It’s a luxury to work with Sasha,” says Nicolas. “He’s a really genuine artist: all his energy flows into the piano. He also a foundation for young musicians and I turned 30. So I was speaks something like eight languages fluently. He’s simply one without an instrument. The auction house Tarisio asked if they could help and soon called me saying I should see this Gigli in of the brightest, most modest people I’ve encountered.” London. I’m normally very picky, but it was love at first sight!” They’ve chosen a fascinating program, featuring Debussy’s And so Sasha, Nicolas and the Gigli are setting off for fantastical late Cello Sonata alongside Three Pieces by Nadia several weeks of music-making “down under”. “Australia is a Boulanger, the Britten Cello Sonata and the second Cello place I love to go back to,” he concludes. “It has always been a Sonata of Brahms. The pair will also premiere a new work place where I feel musically at home.” by young Adelaide composer Jakub Jankowski, which was Nicolas Altstaedt and Aleksandar Madžar will perform at commissioned for the tour with the support of the Australian the Newcastle Conservatorium on Thursday 28 September at Executor Trustees Community Program and Adelaide 7:30pm. For tickets and further details, please visit Commissioning Circle. www.musicaviva.com.au/altstaedt-madzar “Jakub was suggested by Carl Vine,” says Nicolas, “and I very much like what I’ve heard of his music. I think it’s a

Thursday 28 September, 7:30pm Newcastle Conservatorium of Music

Join two European stars on an extraordinary emotional journey through great masterpieces for cello and piano by Debussy, Brahms, Boulanger and more.

GET YOUR TICKETS

“MADŽAR SHOWED US HIS GIFT FOR MAKING THE PIANO SING” SEEN AND HEARD

“THE REAL FIREWORKS BEGAN WITH NICOLAS ALTSTAEDT” THE BOSTON GLOBE

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INSIDE INTOUCH

From the Editors...

The Tip Jar competition will promote the city’s community of musicians, and provide new opportunities for talented performers to export their music nationally. The competition builds on the city’s long history of creating world class musicians.

It has been a rough couple of years for Central Coast country music star and mother-of-three, Kasey Chambers. As the saying goes ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’ – and that certainly has been the case for Chambers, who says she now feels creatively and personally stronger than ever. When Kasey wrote Ain’t No Little Girl, she didn’t realise it would change her life. But the song, which captures the singer’s journey from turmoil to triumph with equal doses of soul and swagger, is not only connecting with audiences like never before – it has become an essential part of Chambers’ empowered new self. We chatted to Kasey ahead of her upcoming tour, which includes three gigs right here in the Hunter. Hot air ballooning enthusiasts will be in seventh heaven from dawn until dusk this month thanks to a new addition to this year’s Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta with the introduction of Night Glow. The event will offer a sight that has to be seen to be believed as pilots create a choreographed light show with ten hot air balloons (tethered to the ground) by firing their burners in the dark in time to a musical soundtrack. This is an event not to be missed come the October Long Weekend. When Niki Lea Williams lost her lower leg as the result of a serious motor vehicle accident at the age of 19, she knew things would never be the same. But rather than let despair or anger overwhelm her, the Newcastle woman was determined to make the most of the fact she was still alive and forge a new direction for her life. Her now burgeoning business see’s her crowning the locks of many of the countries rich and famous come race-day. Check out Niki’s story in this issue. Spring has truly sprung in our bumper September issue – even School Holidays get a look-in and of course – if love is in the air and you’re planning upcoming nuptials we’ve got that covered as well. Enjoy! Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Quentin and Di von Essen | Publishers

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Contents//

Features

- PAGE 32

ISSUE #26 SEPTEMBER 2017

What's On Highlights

Cover Story - Kasey Chambers Ain't No Little Girl!

Hunter Valley Night Glow

High Energy Show Pays Tribute to King of Pop

Let's Get Cycling Newcastle!

Tireless Support for Invisible Wounds

At The Markets - Picturesque Prints

Silver Linings

Niki Lea Williams - Empowered by Inspirational Creations

School Hoilday Feature

Living in a Plastic Free World

Monte Dwyer - Entwined in a Matrix of Evidence

Spring Wedding Feature

Creating A Great First Impression

Hello Disruption

PAGE 30

Regulars 6

Horoscopes

Got a great story to tell? Know someone who does? Budding writer or sensational photographer? We love contributions, so drop us a line at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

What’s on Guide

Home + Lifestyle

Contacts

Family + Community

Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen: quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen: di@intouchmagazine.com.au

Fashion

Health + Wellbeing

Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address Level 1, 216 Pacific Highway, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

Advertising Sales Phone (02) 4943 0888

30 Travel

47 Eat//Sip//Savour Home + Business

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Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen and Carla Elkin Graphic Design Jess Codrington and Larissa Cluff Features Writer Michelle Meehan © Copyright 2017 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

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Contributors

Kasey Chambers loves playing locally. The Country Music Star and mother of three says she loves that hometown gigs are filled with the familiar faces of family and friends. Read more on page 12. Image credit: Penny Lane.

Carla Elkin Di von Essen Mel Murray Sarah Scott Daniel Seaman Nick Milligan Gary Avery Kate Austen

Michelle Meehan Quentin von Essen Sonya Todd-Jones Tanya Obreza Larissa Cluff Chris Williams Lilli Toengi-Andrews Chloe Sullivan

Jess Codrington Megan O'Sullivan Anne Ward Tracey Hollis Ross Fiddes Deborah Bartlett Mia von Essen

ROY ORTUSO PRESENTS

DIRECT FROM THE USA

STARRING WILLIAM HALL WED 4 OCTOBER WESTS NEW LAMBTON TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM THE CLUB PHONE 4935 1200 | WESTSNEWCASTLE.COM.AU

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STAR OF THE MONTH - VIRGO

2925JUL17

Author Event

Louise Milligan Cardinal: The Rise and Fall of George Pell Tuesday 12 September, 6.30-7.30pm Newcastle City Hall Louise is an investigative reporter for ABC TV’s 7.30 and Four Corners. Her exclusive stories on the allegations against George Pell won her two Quill Awards from the Melbourne Press Club, including the Gold Quill for best story of the year, the highest honour in Victorian journalism. Bookings essential.

Astrologer TANYA OBREZA on what’s in the stars this month...

24 August - 22 September This year is ideal for turning some of your wilder schemes into practical reality, with the first creative shock waves after the new moon in your own sign after the 20th. New skills encourage success, so plough on with innovative ideas or travel plans. When so fervent, trying to relax would be a waste of time. A similar rule applies to romance. With the Sun moving forward, so should you. There’s a good chance of finding a kindred spirit, but don’t push it.

Libra 23 September - 23 October Should September finalise a chapter in your life, take stock and follow up with positive action. If you need to make a break, quit that dead-end job or stand up to troublesome individuals. And there’s much to be said for being in the right place at the right time. Mind you; it’s not always luck. It’s often prior knowledge that gets you there. So stay attentive.

Scorpio 24 October - 22 November There’s plenty of reason for excitement. Take any professional prominence you’re offered this month. When you choose to shine, you truly sparkle. You have more time to please yourself too, particularly after the new moon on the 20th when the focus shifts away from work. Late September signals play time, offering the right balance between work and play.

Sagittarius 23 November - 21 December September finds you more rebellious, yet ambitious. Radical new ideas and information flow through your mind. You're better able to talk your way in or out of circumstances. Challenges come out of the blue, though rewards can be just as unexpected. Travel, too, should bring surprises. All this, hand in hand, with a delightfully active love life.

Capricorn 22 December - 20 January Reality takes the form of a cash flow crisis, the kind that threatens to send finances into a spin. Allow your practical side to step in. Someone close may also want you to detour from your own interests in order to hold their hand. If they’re being too intrusive, set them straight. Sometimes, even loved ones have to learn by their own mistakes.

Aquarius 21 January - 18 February You can finally let out that ever-so-heart-felt sigh of relief. It’s been a traumatic time for you and the world which you so dearly cherish. September is all about forgiving and forgetting. Leave the past where it belongs. Remember: yesterday is history, tomorrow’s a mystery. For now, kick off your heels - and focus on life’s many pleasures.

Pisces 19 February - 20 March This month, the world seems kinder. The full moon in your own sign on the 6th dons a wizard’s hat and conjures up love - and it’s not all the romantic variety. Overall, there’s more compassion - and as you become more open, others return the sentiment. But there are also surprises in store, with financial help springing from the most unexpected sources.

Aries 21 March - 20 April For you, it’s either accelerator down or engines off. This month, your foot’s to the floor. As work takes priority until the 20th, you’ll need to draw on deep reserves of energy to keep up the gruelling pace. Increased responsibilities are soon matched by equal rewards. The only pitfall lies in trying to be all things to all people.

Taurus 21 April - May 20 Determined to outshine the competition? Then make the most of promising work opportunities this month. Having reached an important watershed, you’re now ready to embark on a journey of growing ambition and self-discovery. Also, think back three years. Why is that situation still haunting you? Break free from this buried hurt.

Gemini May 21 - 21 June Nobody knows it all, but we all know something. Sometimes you underestimate just how experienced you are until you meet people totally new to the game. This month could find you bestowing a wealth of welcome advice. Great for your self-confidence as well as someone else’s learning curve. Everyone benefits.

Cancer 22 June - 22 July You’ve been staring down a monetary vortex for some time now. However, you can’t claim to have played no part in this. If you’re determined to have one more financial fling this month, fine - but then make some thrifty resolutions. There’s also a salvage job needed regarding relationships. Make amends, and vow never to repeat said mistakes again.

Leo 23 July - 23 August September’s mood is fun and fast. Your shrewd, competitive Leo spirit may show even more of an aggressive edge, but this serves you well. Even when unexpected obstacles challenge your confidence, the cosmos spurs you on. Matters of the heart also improve. Couples become more committed; singles look set to find romance.

TANYA OBREZA was born in Slovenija and emigrated to Australia with her parents as a young girl. It was during her first visit to England that Tanya was introduced to astrology, and in 1980 she gained her London Faculty of Astrological Studies qualifications. Over the years, Tanya has established an extensive and wide-ranging international following, mostly due to her reassuring, down to earth presence.

12 + 13 OCT BUSINESS EVENTS 14 OCT NOODLE NIGHT MARKET 15 OCT CULTURAL FESTIVAL For enquiries please call 4974 5300. For more information visit: www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au

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NEWCASTLECHINAWEEK.COM.AU

BUMPER SPRING RACING

Australian Family Owned Since 1858

T Y R R E L L’ S W I N E S Former Miss World Australia Erin Holland

Australia’s premier provincial racing club will host the 2017 Tyrrell’s Wines Spring Racing Carnival at Newcastle Racecourse on Friday 15 and Saturday 16 September 2017. The carnival brings together a range of Newcastle’s leading businesses along with keen racegoers for two days of sporting and social celebration. Preparations are under way for a bumper Spring Racing Carnival, the first to be held on the magnificent new course proper. Newcastle Jockey Club looks forward to a strong turnout of both members and the general public to celebrate this special event in the history of the Newcastle Jockey Club. The major racing day of the Carnival is on Friday with four Group 3 events programmed for the meeting. NJC’s flagship race, the XXXX Gold Newcastle Cup, will again be run over 2,300 metres and carry prizemoney of $175,000. Hunter based syndication specialists Australian Bloodstock have extended for three years their generous sponsorship of NJC’s premier sprint, the Cameron Handicap, run over 1,400 metres. The ‘Cameron’ will again carry prizemoney of $150,000. The $150,000 NBN News Spring Stakes returns to Newcastle after being run at Randwick and taken out by the Kris Lees trained Invincible Gem last year. Scone’s famous Yarraman Park Stud will once again sponsor the $150,000 Tibbie Stakes run over the 1,400 metres for fillies and mares. The second day of Spring Carnival on Saturday 16 September is the hugely popular Hit106.9 Ladies Day, with former Miss World Australia Erin Holland as NJC’s VIP Guest in the Westfield Kotara Ladies Day Marquee. There’ll be loads of great prizes for ‘Fashions in the Marquee’ including Best Dressed Female (who will win a $300 Westfield Kotara Gift Voucher), Best Dressed Female Runner Up, Best Dressed Male and Best Millinery (who will receive a $100 Westfield Kotara Gift Voucher). All winners will also be treated to a “Personal Shopper” session with stylist Kate Kohler of Westfield Kotara. To enter, all you have to do is buy your Westfield Kotara Ladies Day VIP Marquee ticket and look fabulous on the day! So

now, might be a good time to book that style session with Kate Kohler. Whilst the Westfield Kotara Ladies Day Marquee is the place to be on Ladies Day, there’s also many other hospitality options to celebrate all the glitz and glamour that the girls bring to the track. Tickets to the Westfield Kotara Ladies Day Marquee are $169 and can be purchased online at www.newcastleracecourse.com.au

HOW TO PICK A NEWCASTLE CUP WINNER For a little bit of fun, Newcastle Jockey Club Racing Administrator, Michael Buckley has compiled some tips on how to pick a XXXX Gold Newcastle Cup winner! The winner of the 2017 Newcastle Cup is most likely to be a five-year-old bay gelding with 70 of the previous 110 cup winners having been geldings. Entires are the next most successful with 32 winners. Throw in one colt, and the males have been the stronger sex on a staggering 103 occasions. Only seven mares have won the race, and their most recent success was Bianca who saluted for Gai Waterhouse in 2008. Five-year-olds are the most successful age group, accounting for 36 of the cups, ahead of four-year-olds (29) and six-year-olds (29). Seven-year-olds have scored on eight occasions. Five eight year-olds have won the cup, including Bikkie Tin Blues in 2006. Two nine-year olds have greeted the judge, but you have to go back a long way to find them - all the way to 1946 with Bon Terre and 1938 with King Gee. The most successful colour is bay with 50 winners, followed by brown (25) and chestnut (21). Don’t miss out on your ticket to the 2017 Tyrrell’s Wines Spring Racing Carnival. Book online at www.newcastleracecourse.com.au General Entry: $30 per person with hospitality packages from $85.

SP R ING R ACI NG CAR NI VAL

16 SEPTEMBER 2017

F R I D AY 1 5 S E P T E M B E R

Cup Day

GENERAL ENTRY $30 DINING PACKAGES FROM $55 STABLES MARQUEE $159 NEWCASTLE CUP VIP MARQUEE $169

S AT U R D AY 1 6 S E P T E M B E R

Hit 106.9 Ladies Day GENERAL ENTRY $30 DINING PACKAGES FROM $55

WESTFIELD KOTARA LADIES DAY VIP MARQUEE $169 VIP GUEST FORMER MISS WORLD AUSTRALIA ERIN HOLLAND GIFT BAG FOR ALL GUESTS FASHIONS IN THE MARQUEE PRIZES

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What’s on? FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 The Merchant of Venice From Bell Shakespeare, a production exploring tense relationships and taking audiences on a journey of love, mercy and justice. Civic Theatre.

►COMING UP SEPT FRIDAY 1ST Waxx The Cambridge Hotel Tailgate Drive Mary Ellen Hotel Greg Bryce Charlestown Bowling Club SUNDAY 3RD Fanny Lumsden 48 Watt Street Mick Jones Criterion Hotel Carrington The New Cool 5 Sawyers THURSDAY 7TH Mental as Anything Wallsend Diggers FRIDAY 8TH Vera Blue Bar on the Hill, UoN Zane Penn Clarendon Hotel Mardy Leith Pippis at the Point SATURDAY 9TH Russell Morris Belmont 16s The Years Warners at the Bay The Cassettes Mezz Bar Matt McLaren The Lucky SUNDAY 10TH Christopher Cross Wests New Lambton KR Duo Honeysuckle Hotel TUESDAY 12TH Tina Arena Civic Theatre Placebo Newcastle Entertainment Centre WEDNESDAY 13TH Perry Carter Customs House FRIDAY 15TH Kylie Jane Bar Petite Karen O'Shea Sunnyside Tavern Jake Davey Mavericks on Darby Jim Overend Warners at the Bay SATURDAY 16TH Kaylah Anne Junction Hotel Harding Customs House Roxy Criterion Hotel Carrington THURSDAY 21ST Make Them Suffer The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 22ND Sneaky Sound System + Kid Kenobi The Cambridge Hotel Jason Bone Mark Hotel Jackson Halliday Shortland Hotel Dave Owen The George Tavern The Radiators Edgeworth Bowling Club SATURDAY 23RD Meg Mac The Cambridge Hotel Mardy Leith Clarendon Hotel Frick N Orson Duke of Wellington Hotel Sundays Record Hotel Delany Grinspoon NEX Todd Schmoo Customs House SUNDAY 24TH Outline in Colour The Small Ballroom Alma Salero The Black Malabar FRIDAY 29TH Illy The Cambridge Hotel Dan Sultan Bar on the Hill, UoN Arley and I Pippis at the Point Jerome Bar Petite SATURDAY 30TH Everclear The Cambridge Hotel Kasey Chambers Wests New Lambton Miriam Liebermann The Black Malabar

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Harry Potter Night A Harry Potter themed cocktail party full of magic at Hotel Delany, Darby St. VIP and general tickets available at www.moshtix.com.au

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Olive Tree Market Civic Park, 9am - 3pm. Newcastle International SuperMoto A mix of road racing and motocross. 2 + 3 Sep, Newcastle Showground. www.newcastlesupermoto.com.au Wollombi Wild Ride A Mountain Bike Event for riders of all abilities. Events include the 13.5km, 30km and 58km. More information at www.wollombiwildride.net SuperMoto Newcastle Now Motorcycle Showcase Bring your own or just come and see the bikes, 4pm 8pm at Wheeler Place. Donations going to Westpac Rescue Helicopter. Hunter Harvest Westfield Kotara once again hosts a day of the Hunter’s premium wineries, breweries and local food producers. Level 1 outside David Jones and Level 3 at The Rooftop, 9am - 5pm. Five Sense Twilight Market Market stalls and entertainment, 4pm - 8pm, Lambton Park. Variety of Chefs A gala dinner prepared by 5 exceptional chefs for Variety - the Childrens Charity. NEX, www.variety.org.au

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Women's Adventure Film Tour Newcastle Featuring some of the world's most inspiring women in adventure. Tower Cinemas Newcastle. Tickets at www.eventbrite.com.au

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 Heathers: The Musical A hilarious, heartfelt and homicidal new show based on one of the greatest 80's cult movie classics. The Playhouse, 7 - 9 Sept.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8 Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase The Festival's funniest in one hilarious night out at Civic Theatre! World Suicide Prevention Day Walk Convene at 5.30am at Dixon Park for a 6am start. Walk is from Dixon Park to Merewether Baths (return). Ceremony at 7am, free yoga at 8am. The event is free but you must register at www.stickytickets.com.au

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9 The Bottle-O Lambton Beer Festival An afternoon of beer tasting, food, live entertainment and more! Last year drew a sell-out crowd, so grab your tickets quick from www.expressliquorstores.com.au Laughing Stock Comedy Including Gearard McGeown, Gillian English and 6 more! The Edwards, Parry St. Tickets $10 at www.stickytickets.com.au Newcastle to Dungog Charity Bike Ride The 90km ride will start at Queens Wharf Hotel and head to Dungog. www.newcastledungogbikeride.org.au Arj Barker - Organic Australia’s favourite American comedian is back at Civic Theatre for one night only!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10 Steel City Malibu Club September Comp Surfing divisions include A + B grade, over 50's, over 60's, Juniors, Anything Goes (board of any shape 8ft and under), and Old Malibu. New members are welcome on the day, registration opens at 7am so be quick to secure a spot! Dixon Park Beach. Founders Day Celebrations A Boat Parade from Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club to Horseshoe Beach from 10am, and Blessing of the Fleet at QWB 10.45am. The Yacht Race from Scratchleys to sea and back starting at 1pm. www.ncyc.net.au Two Feet & a Heartbeat for HeartKids This fun, family-friendly 2.1km charity walk is to raise awareness of congenital/childhood heart disease. All walkers receive Two Feet & A Heartbeat socks and use their feet to take positive steps towards a cure. Register at www.heartkids.org.au

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13 Future of Leadership Newcastle Learn from inspiring speakers, big thinkers, and people doing great things in business. Merewether Surfhouse, www.futureofleadership.com.au Romeo and Juliet The Russian National Ballet Theatre is back. Civic Theatre.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14 Raw Newcastle - Radiant Showcasing the Hunter's best emerging creatives. Central Bar, King Street. Tickets: www.rawartists.org/newcastle or at the door. Elvis to the Max The farewell tour for Max Pellicano after 30 years on stage, impersonating The King. Civic Theatre.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 Yamato - The Drummers of Japan Heart-thumping rhythm, thunderous sounds and explosive beats in a staggering display of physical strength and ferocious skill. Civic Theatre.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Let's Dance 2017 Celebrating 30 years of dance in the Hunter. Presented by Newcastle Contemporary Dance Company. Civic Theatre. Tomaree Trail Run Festival + TreX Cross Triathlon Series An action packed weekend of off-road events in Port Stephens for all ages and abilities. More on page 11, visit www.trextriathlon.com.au

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 Masters + Creators Showcase 2017 INNX is playing host to the Hunters biggest showcases of local talent in business, creativity and innovation. 6pm, 61 Parry Street Newcastle. Register free at www.innx.com.au Gudirr Gudirr An intimate solo dance and video work performed by Dalisa Pigram (daughter of Broome). This is a show about evolving Aboriginal resilience. 22 + 23 September, Civic Theatre. Charity Sports Luncheon Join House With No Steps to raise funds towards setting up sporting programs for kids with disabilities in mainstream clubs. Harbourview Function centre, tickets at www.stickytickets.com.au French Fridays Little French market (from 6pm) and the film 'The Unknown Girl - La Fille Inconnue'. Tower Cinemas, King Street, 7pm.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23 Living Smart Festival Lake Mac’s biggest event on sustainability and green living in a fun and interactive environment. Speers Point Park, 8am - 2pm.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24 Puttin' on the Ritz with Rob Mills This dazzling theatre spectacle brings to life the music of Irving Berlin, Cole Porter and George Gershwin. Wests New Lambton. The Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride Newcastle is officially taking part in the world's largest charitable motorcycle event for owners of classic and vintage styled bikes, raising money for the Movember Foundation. Register at www.gentlemansride.com World Travel & Cruise Expo One stop shop to research, compare and book your next holiday under the one roof. 10am – 4pm. Free Entry, Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29 Balloon Aloft Hunter Valley Fiesta This annual fiesta see's the skies over the Hunter taken over by an amazing display of colourful hot air balloons. Each day there will be around 20 balloons launched at sunrise. Join as a passenger or follow from the ground! 29 Sept - 2nd Oct. www.balloonaloft.com Celtic Woman Civic Theatre. Dashville Skyline Cosmic Country Weekender. 29 Sept - 1 Oct. www.dashville.com.au

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30

LOVE: The Wedding Festival at Hope Estate, Hunter Valley, 10am to 4pm. Tickets are $21.50 online or $25 at the door. www.loveweddingfestival.com.au The Glenn Miller Orchestra The long awaited return of the greatest big band of the 1940’s, direct from the USA. Civic Theatre. Spring Family Festival A family event with free rides, food, market stalls, kids craft, DJ, animal farm, pony rides, skateboard coach and more! 10am - 1pm, The Gardens Greyhounds & Sporting Complex.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19 Food Frustrations: What to Eat When Food is Confusing Join Dr Libby and find out how! Newcastle City Hall. More on page 11. www.drlibby.com

Hunter Valley Night Glow As part of the Balloon Fiesta, the night skies of Roche Estate will be lit up in a vivid display of fire and colour along with night markets and entertainment. Tickets are online or at the gate, 5pm - 9pm. www.eventbrite.com

Do you have a local event or gig coming up? Email us today at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

What’s on? Coming Up IN OCTOBER

COMING UP//

Live & Cookin’

WEDNESDAY 4TH Festival of Russian Ballet Imperial Russian Ballet Company return to Australia. Civic Theatre. Michael Jackson – The Legacy Tour Wests New Lambton.

31 Morehead Street, Lambton Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED

SATURDAY 7TH PBR Newcastle Invitational It’s a showdown like no other – 22 riders all eager for glory as they strive to overcome the power of 52 most extreme bucking bulls. Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Killing Heidi The Cambridge Hotel.

SEPTEMBER GIRLS ON THE RADIO Friday 1

THURSDAY 12TH China Week Crossing countries, continents and cultures at a series of events from 12-15 October. Newcastle Seminar: Living Well with Arthritis Join your local community in building your understanding of arthritis and take a positive step for your health. Wests New Lambton, tickets at www.arthritisnsw.org.au/health-education-seminars

FRIDAY 13TH Newcastle Fashion Weekend Newcastle's stylish Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle Event. A fashionistas dream of runway shows, beauty activations, fashion panels, shopping and cocktails. 13 + 14 Oct, Newcastle Jockey Club, www.newcastlefashionweekend.com.au

SATURDAY 14TH Australian Offshore Superboat Championships Offshore Championships are set to rumble Lake Macquarie once again, incorporating the 2017 Lake Macquarie PWC Race Series (jetski). Best viewing will be from Warners Bay Foreshore and Eleebana. 14 + 15 October. Opera in the Vineyards 2017 Indulge your senses with an evening of elegance, style and sophistication at Chateau Elan, Hunter Valley. Status Quo Civic Theatre.

SUNDAY 15TH Dog Lovers Market Day Enjoy a family day out with a BBQ, jumping castle, face painting, competitions and demonstrations. Run by Dog Rescue Newcastle. Islington Park, 10am - 2.30pm.

FRIDAY 20TH Blue Love An enormously entertaining work by award-winning choreographer Shaun Parker, infused with intense physical theatre, film and dance. 20 + 21 Oct, Civic Theatre. Pokolbin Pride #2 Welcoming the LGBTI community, their families and friends to celebrate wine, food and LGBTI talent and diversity in all its glorious forms. 20 - 22 Oct, Nanna Kerrs Kitchen, Hunter Valley. www.pokolbinpride.com.au

RICK PRICE

Friday October 20, Lizotte's

Australian singer/songwriter Rick Price has walked the journey many musicians dreams are made of. From the very beginning, as a nine-year-old and the youngest member of his family’s band. Music was Price’s passion. Since those humble yet defining days, set amongst the backdrop of country Queensland. The self-taught artist has forged an internationally praised and respected career spanning more than three decades. The 90's set Rick on a soaring trajectory with smash hits, Heaven Knows, Not A Day Goes By, Walk Away Renee and River Of Love. His broad repertoire of eight albums and music industry awards including the prestigious APRA Song Of The Year award for his song Heaven Knows and the Export Music Australia award for his outstanding achievements abroad have made Rick a household name. Dead Man Walkin' will be released on September 29, the next single from the album Tennessee Sky, which Rick wrote and produced in Nashville, Tennessee. Audiences will be taken on a musical journey at Rick's live show, dancing in the aisles and joining him on stage for a sing-along, there will be smiles all around the room with this upbeat set. The classics are still there, along with tracks from his current album.

Win!

Thanks to the crew at Lizotte’s we have 2 x double passes (show only) to give away to 2 lucky readers. Visit the Giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine. com.au to enter – entries close 30 September 2017.

JEFF MARTIN (THE TEA PARTY) Saturday 2

FATHERS DAY LUNCH - CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL SHOW Sunday 3 THE LAST WALTZ REVIVAL SHOW Friday 8 THE KITES STEELY DAN & THE BEST OF THE WEST COAST SHOW Saturday 9 JAMES BENNETT Wednesday 13 CAITLYN SHADBOLT + MELANIE DYER Thursday 14

THE LEGENDARY VINCE JONES Friday 15 LYN BOWTELL Saturday 16 NEVER ENDING 80’s Friday 22 + Saturday 23 SUNDAY LUNCH WITH CARPENTER CASWELL + MORE Sunday 24 GLENN CARDIER Saturday 30

OCTOBER THE BLACK SORROWS Sunday 1 UKULELE RUSS Thursday 5 THE JAMIE MARTENS BAND - THE SONGS OF BOB DYLAN Friday 6 DANCIN IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN Saturday 7

AUSTRALIAN BURLESQUE FESTIVAL Thursday 12

SEPT 2 | OCT 7 | NOV 4 CIVIC PARK 9AM - 3PM

MORE SHOWS added daily. LIVE SHOWS starting from $65 (including dinner)

BOOK ONLINE NOW + See who else is coming to dinner...

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What's On

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Friday, September 8th As Sydney's biggest comedy event, the Sydney Comedy Festival takes over the city each April/May. Hundred's of the worlds funniest comedians take to the stage entertaining up to 120,000 people. This festival aims to grow each year, and is shared with the masses through the Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Tour - that's 5 months, more than 55 shows and up to 20,000 more comedy fans, in both regional and metropolitan locations. The Showcase hits our very own Civic Theatre this month with headliner Tom Rhodes (USA), Luke Heggie, Katie Burch, Ciaran Lyons plus more special guests! This diverse range of comedians are hand-selected from the Festival - get ready for a variety of comical styles ranging from musical maestros to the more absurd! Grab your tickets quick at www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

The Rise and Fall of Cardinal George Pell Founders Day Celebrations 2017 Sunday, September 10th You may notice the abundance of boats on Sunday the 10th of September as the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club's Founders Day Celebrations take over the harbour! Starting at 10am, the sail past will begin with boats heading up to Horseshoe Beach and back to Queens Wharf. The traditional Blessing of the Fleet will kick off at 10.45am, plus after lunch plenty of yacht, laser and Force 24 racing action! If you have a love of boats (or have kids that do), hope for fine weather and make a day of it! www.ncyc.net.au

Tuesday, September 12th Louise Milligan is an author and an investigative reporter for ABC TV's 7.30 and Four Corners. She has earned two Quill Awards for her exclusive stories on the allegations against George Pell from the Melbourne Press Club - including the Gold Quill for best story of the year, the highest honour in Victorian journalism. Her controversial book published in May 2017 Cardinal: The Rise and Fall of George Pell details allegations against Pell. Though available everywhere else, the book has been withdrawn from Victorian bookshops since he has been charged as it is seen to possibly prejudice the case and be in contempt of court. You can hear Milligan explore the series of disturbing pictures of the Cardinal's knowledge and actions, many of which are being told within her book for the first time. This is a free event at Newcastle City Hall, but you must register at www.eventbrite.com.au

LOVE: The Wedding Festival

GROW UP! Music and Arts Festival Saturday September 16th Grow Up! is a music and arts festival aiming to put the spotlight on the Hunter's growing DIY scene, featuring musical performances, video art projections, pop-up poetry, live art and stalls from over 30 DIY artists. Maitland Regional Art Gallery, 5pm. Tickets are $15, available via www.maitlandticketing.com.au

Always Online!

Sunday, September 17th Love: The Wedding Festival is a fun and vibrant wedding planning destination, where couples can plan without it feeling like a chore! You can be sure this Festival at Hope Estate Winery, Hunter Valley is comprehensive enough to help you plan your big day - you'll find the most creative and best wedding suppliers such as photographers, stylists, planners, dress designers, caterers, florists, cake makers, makeup artists plus more. On the day you can expect food vans, DIY workshops, celebrants, fashion shows, wine tasting, live music and entertainment, give aways, styled displays, experts in the field and even a man cave for when the men get tired or overwhelmed! Pre-purchased general tickets are $20 online, or $25 at the gate. Why not lock in one of the limited VIP Teepee Tickets - $180 (4 pax), which includes a reserved Teepee plus a bottle of bubbles! www.loveweddingfestival.com.au

In print and online. We’re a monthly mag, not a weekly rag.

For more information and advertising rates call 4943 0888 or email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au 10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

A Weekend of Adventure!

September 16 + 17 The Tomaree Trail Run Festival, partnered with the TreX Cross Triathlon Series, will together create an action packed weekend of off-road events in Port Stephens for all ages and abilities! The area provides the perfect backdrop for trail running and off-road triathlon with spectacular coastal, beach and scenic bushland. The TreX Cross Triathlon Series boasts Triathlon, AquaBike and Duathlon options, along with standard, sprint, junior, teaser and Dirt Kids courses - providing an event for all ages and fitness levels. The Tomaree Trail Run Festival allows you to discover the beauty of Fingal Bay beaches and Tomaree National Park with their diverse courses, ranging from Kids, 6km, 11.5km and the 21km Half Marathon distances. So whether you are a hardcore trail runner, a family, a weekend warrior or someone who just loves getting outdoors, there’s something here for everyone! www.trextriathlon.com.au

Living SMART Festival Saturday, September 23rd Sustainability, recycling and re-using are becoming bigger and more important issues than ever before. Lake Macquarie's Living Smart Festival is proof of this, growing larger each year last year attracting upwards of 20,000 people. This annual festival encourages green living - lending ideas and inspiration on how people can live more sustainably. An inspiring collection of presenters, community groups, local producers and businesses will be on hand for visitors to explore the opportunities of adopting sustainable practices not just occasionally, but in day to day life.

Food Frustrations: What to Eat When Food is Confusing Tuesday, September 19th Dr Libby Weaver (PhD) is one of Australasia’s leading nutritional biochemists, author, speaker and founder of the plant-based supplement range, Bio Blends. She has an abundance of knowledge and research behind her and the desire to empower and inspire people to take charge of their health and happiness. If you are confused about all the latest nutrition trends and fads or waging a daily battle between what your tastebuds want and what your body really craves, then this powerful two-hour event at City Hall may be for you! Dr Libby takes all the confusion out of food - in a down-to-earth style, she’ll guide you with the best food choices to make for you, helping to remove any guesswork from what to eat, when and why. Visit www.drlibby.com.au to find out more or for tickets.

Central Coast Ukulele Festival Saturday 23rd + Sunday 24th September The Central Coast Ukulele Festival is bringing together people of all ages and walks of life for the sixth year running. This year, the program is jam packed with musical entertainment from both national and international acts, ukulele clubs from across the state as well as professionals. Highlights include Walt Keale (Hawaii), Bill Griffin (USA), the Ukulele Death Squad (Adelaide), Cameron Murray (Aus), The Cleaning Ladies (Aus) plus many more! There is something for the whole family with each festival day including market stalls, ukulele workshops, rides, free jams, blackboard events and of course food and drink. Entertainment each day is free, with Saturday at Memorial Park, and Sunday at the Sails Stage, The Entrance, 11am - 5pm. Join in on Saturday night at The Diggers, 8pm - 11pm for more musical fun!

A fun, family friendly day out is promised, once again kicking off at 8am at Speers Point Park with free outdoor yoga by the lake (run by Whole Living). Stick around for the much-loved farmers markets, regular market stalls, native plant giveaways, cooking demonstrations and of course kids activities. Additionally, Lake Macquarie City Council has partnered with Raid My Wardrobe for this year's event, with a special indoor pop-up (inside the Heritage Shed). Raid My Wardrobe is a pre-loved women's fashion event in support of the Got Your Back Sista charity and the Uplift Bra Project, the concept of which celebrates women. It has grown from a pre-loved clothing event into upcycling, eco-styling, sustainable slow fashion. The pop-up will have 14 handpicked stalls for visitors. The event will wrap up at 2pm. To find out more, keep an eye on the Lake Macquarie City Council's facebook page or visit www.lakemac.com.au

COOKS HILL GALLERIES PRESENTS

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Cover Story

KASEY

Chambers

Ain't No Little Girl! WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

When Kasey Chambers wrote ‘Ain’t No Little Girl’, she didn’t realise it would change her life. But the song, which captures the singer’s journey from turmoil to triumph with equal doses of soul and swagger, is not only connecting with audiences like never before – it has become an essential part of Chambers’ empowered new self. It has been a rough couple of years for the Central Coast country music star and mother-of-three. In 2013 she split from her husband of eight years, Shane Nicholson, with whom she has two children and an impressive back catalogue of award-winning music, which they wrote together. 12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

The turmoil continued in 2015 when Chambers temporarily put her career on hold to go under the surgeon’s knife, removing the nodules and cyst from her throat that had been placing a massive strain on her vocal cords for years. But as the saying goes ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’ – and that certainly has been the case for Chambers, who was back on stage just eight weeks after surgery, released her 11th studio album, Dragonfly, earlier this year and feels creatively and personally stronger than ever. It’s a lot to sum up in a few short lines of a song. “That song is just a massive part of who I am. I feel like that song wrote me instead of me writing it,” Chambers said. “It just fell out one day, I didn’t really think much of it at the time, it wasn’t like I felt like it was a life-changing song - but it has been a life-changing song for me and it’s really something that has helped me to become that song. “It helped me personally way more than if I look at it as a career move or an album move or for its song writing craft or anything like that, it just helped me so much in my personal life. “It’s funny because I’ve never had a song go over to an audience as well as that song has. I’m sure it’s because I am so connected to the song that it makes other people connect to it, even if they’re not going through the same things, it’s still just a connection on some level and that’s not something you can fake or pretend or force either. “I believe I am writing my best songs right now and making my best music now. I think I probably am just more tapped into who I am personally and it’s coming out on this record and I think that’s really connecting with people. “I don’t think it’s something you can really plan, it is or it isn’t, you’re sort of there, or you’re not. But I’m still like any normal woman. Some days I wake up and feel like I could take

All photos by Penny Lane

on the world and then sometimes I still wake up and look in the mirror and feel not pretty enough and those sorts of things that I used to feel. Depends what day you get me on.” While Chambers may not have immediately understood the power of ‘Ain’t No Little Girl’, it’s clear it resonated from the first hearing with Australian music luminary and the co-producer of Chamber’s new album, Paul Kelly. While Chambers had been asking Kelly for years to take the reins on one of her albums, it wasn’t until this song came along that Kelly finally felt the time was right. “I had asked him a few times if he would produce something for me and he’s like ‘Oh yeah maybe one day’, and the timing just hadn’t been right,” she said. “Then he came to one of my gigs when I tried out ‘Ain’t No Little Girl’ as a new song, I hadn’t recorded it yet, and it was that song that he said ‘Ok, yep, we need to work together because I really want to produce that song’, so it kind of just clicked. “I’ve known Paul for a long time and worked with him on different levels before. We’re really the complete opposite personalities. He’s just that person that sits back and doesn’t say things unless things need to be said, and everything he says is very profound and inspiring, while I’m just filling in the silence here (laughs). So we’re really different personalities, but we work so well together in the studio. “We have a lot of the same outlooks on music and recording, which is good. We worked really well together, and he’s just a really awesome, inspiring person to be around, he’s been a huge influence on me, and I respect him so much - to be in the studio with someone you respect so much, it’s what it’s all about, I love it.”

It’s Happening in Newcastle City! What’s On in September FEATURED 28th – 1st: This Is Not Art Festival 2nd: Olive Tree Markets at Civic Park Every Sunday: Nobbys Lighthouse 10am – 4pm

LIVE MUSIC CONCERTS 8th: An Evening With Tex, Don And Charlie at the Cambridge Hotel

“

[My voice] did sound a little bit different. Obviously, it’s got more power and more strength, even more volume all of those things that you would expect.

Chambers originally thought she would record “four or five” songs with Kelly in Melbourne’s Sing Sing Recording Studios, and the same again with her long-time producer (and brother) Nash at their recording studio at Wollombi. But the success of both sessions saw Chambers put out a double album packed with an impressive song list – and an even more impressive list of guest singers, “But this album, Dragonfly, was the first including everyone from Australian music album that I made, the first recording after stalwarts Keith Urban, Vika and Linda Bull and Kelly himself, to one of the most popular the surgery and I think it changed my writing as well actually because I was able to sort of singers on the planet right now, Ed Sheeran. find this different voice within myself that I “I didn’t plan on doing a double album. I had all the songs, but I just thought we would didn’t even know I had,” she said. “I think there’s a lot bigger vocals on this do four or five with Paul, and I’d do four or new record and even with my new show. five with my brother Nash, and we’d just add I’ll play a few songs from Dragonfly, but I them together and make one record,” she mostly go back and play all the old ones said. anyway. I still love playing ‘The Captain’ and “But at both of the sessions we ended ‘Barricades and Brickwalls’ and songs like up with twice as many songs as that, and I that, I think they still sound the same after just got really attached to them and didn’t the surgery, but there’s definitely a depth want to let any go. So we just ended up with there that wasn’t there before in my voice, a double album, which I’m happy about now although at the time it didn’t really even enter which is great. “I feel like I have the best of both worlds my head.” now because I get to sing the old songs but I Since its release in January, Dragonfly get this new side of my voice as well where I has become Chamber’s fifth album to hit #1 get to do some bigger, soul kind of vibe songs. on the Australian ARIA charts. “I love it; it’s made me step outside the box Sporting a roots-influenced country sound a little bit writing wise. and a new depth in both her vocal abilities “I think a lot of it is that it was almost and her song writing skills, it has received like a personal thing that clicked in me. rave reviews and critical acclaim, with many Even though my voice now just sounds a bit calling it her best album to date. stronger, I don’t think I realised how much Chambers puts part of its success down stress I had on my voice before, just singing to the new lease on life she gained on and off the stage following throat surgery in 2015, through nodules for 20 years. “It was also at a time that was not long and her journey through the turmoil that after my divorce, and I was discovering all came before that. (continued next page) ►

12th: Tina Arena greatest Hits Tour at the Civic Theatre 22nd: Pierce Brothers & Sneaky Sound System at the Cambridge 23rd: Meg Mac at the Cambridge 23rd: Grinspoon at NEX Wests City 28th: Musica Viva : Alstaedt & Madzar at Newcastle Conservatorium of Music 28th – 29th: Illy at the Cambridge 30th: Everclear at the Cambridge

THEATRE 1st: The Merchant of Venice at the Civic Theatre, presented by Bell Shakespeare 8th: Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase at the Civic Theatre 9th: Arj Barker at the Civic Theatre 21st – 24th: Accidental Death of an Anarchist at the Playhouse, presented by Two Tall Theatre 22nd – 23rd: Gudirr Gudirr at the Civic Theatre, presented by Marrugeku

FILM AT THE TOWER CINEMAS 9th, 10th & 13th: Angels in America – Part 1: Millennium Approaches – National Theatre Live 16th, 17th & 20th: Angels in America – Part 2: Perestoika – National Theatre Live

EXHIBITIONS 1st – 30th: Kilgour Prize 2017 Exhibition at Newcastle Art Gallery* 2nd – 30th: Mazie Karen Turner: Between dream and earth at Newcastle Art Gallery* 2nd – 30th: Montages: The Full Cut 1999 - 2015 - Tracey Moffatt & Gary Hillberg at Newcastle Art Gallery* 1st – 30th: Shadows of Sacrifice, Newcastle’s Great War 1914 – 1918 at Newcastle Museum* *Continues next month

Parking & Road Closures With construction works for the new Newcastle Light Rail, Supercars and Council civil works in full swing we recommend planning ahead. For the latest road closures and best parking information in one easy location, visit our mobile friendly website.

newcastlenow.org.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 13

(continued) these different sides of myself, being a single parent after ten years of being in a relationship and all of that, finding this different side of myself that I didn’t know that I really had. “I think I found a new strength within myself that the surgery certainly added to and all of these things just happened at the one time. “Then I turned 40 and I found this new lease on life, I think, where I was discovering who I really was. I think we all like to think we’re discovering that all the time and I think that’s a good thing, the more that you grow into yourself, and I think this album reflects that more than any other album ever has and maybe that’s why it’s connecting so well.” Chambers has had plenty of chances to connect in person with her fans this year as well, with a string of tour dates in Australia and the USA keeping her busy for most of 2017. She is about to launch into the final phase of touring for her Dragonfly album this month, with a run of 14 shows throughout NSW, Queensland and Victoria that will kick off on September 28 at Cessnock Performing Arts Centre. Chambers will follow this up with shows at Club Maitland City (September 29) and Wests New Lambton (September 30), making the start of the tour a virtual home town run for the Central Coast-based singer. “We’ve been out on tour for most of the year, but we’re just having a little break at the moment and getting back into it soon,” she said. “I needed to come home and see what my kids looked like and rest my voice a bit. I had my kids on tour for half of it anyway, but maybe see what it’s like to be a normal mum for a bit. “This last couple of weeks have just been swimming lessons, footy training, homework, school lunches, all those glamorous things us mums have to do. A reality check, that’s basically

what this last couple of weeks have been; it’s good. Actually, I like it. “This bunch of gigs that we’re doing coming up next are, as much as we’re technically ‘on tour’, we’re not going that far from home, so that makes them a little bit easier.

“

It kind of does [feel like a home town gig]. I played on and off around Newcastle area for most of my life, and I’ve gotten to play lots of great venues and lots of great towns surrounding it, which is obviously what we’re doing this time.

“It is good because I get to have a lot of friends and family come along to the gigs, the guest list is usually a little bit higher on these gigs, it’s good to have some familiar faces out there. “We always have a really big following around there as well. “I technically haven’t played there for a little while, even though I’m around that area all the time. I jam with my dad a lot, and it feels like I’m always around, but I haven’t done any proper gigs of mine (in Newcastle) for a little while, so I’m looking forward to that, it’ll be great.” Of course, if you miss her this time around you won’t have that long to wait to hear her again, with Chambers named on the all-star line-up for next year’s Crossroads in the Vines festival being held at Roche Estate. A new addition to the Hunter’s burgeoning music festival line-up, it will bring together the biggest names in country and blues for two massive dates of premium music, food and entertainment.

US country legend Billy Ray Cyrus will headline the Crossroads Country in the Vines event on Saturday, March 24, supported by an impressive cast of Australian country music royalty including Chambers, Lee Kernaghan, John Williamson, The McClymonts, Sara Storer, Adam Harvey and Beccy Cole. Chambers said she was looking forward to the event and the chance to share the bill with so many other great artists. “I’m looking forward to that; it’s kind of local for us so that’s a bonus and it’s a great place to play, it’ll be fun,” she said. “I love playing festivals - it’s good because when you’ve finished your set, you get to go and watch everyone else play.” Tickets for Chambers’ Dragonfly Tour are on sale now – check out www.kaseychambers.com for the full details. Fans can also secure their tickets for Crossroads Country in the Vines now via Oztix. ■

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PROGRAM Kooragang Island

Applications now open

14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

The second round of funding for Orica’s 2017 Community Investment Program is now open, with up to $65,000 in grants available to local community groups.

Application forms and supporting documents are available at orica.com/kooragang

The Orica Community Investment Program supports initiatives that seek to promote education and lifelong learning, improve and protect the environment, and build strong communities.

Applications for this round of funding will close on 30 September, with successful recipients notified in October.

Come join us for the first ever Hunter Valley Night Glow! Enjoy the spectacle as 10 tethered hot air balloons light up the evening sky in an exciting choreographed display. The Hunter Valley Night Glow promises to be a great night out with family friendly night markets, live musical performance and plenty of fun activities to keep the kids entertained.

WHEN Saturday 30th September 2017 - 5.00pm - 9.00pm WHERE Roche Estate Cnr Broke Rd & McDonalds Road Pokolbin NSW 2320 TICKETS balloonaloft.com/nightglow or rocheestate.com.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

What's On?

CCO OSSM MIICC CCO DEERR ND OU KEEN UN NTTRRYY W WEEEEK

29 SEPT - 1 OCT TH

BELFORD, HUNTER VALLEY Escape to the countryside, unwind amongst great people and a quality live music experience, featuring...

Oh Mercy • Valerie June (US) Declan O'Rourke (IRE) Cash Savage & The Last Drinks William Crighton • Immigrant Union Tim Easton (US) • Mel Parsons (NZ) Lachlan Bryan & The Wildes The Teskey Brothers • Songs From Dan (NL) Pony Face • The Roamin’ Jasmine (US) Mark Olson & Ingunn Ringvold (US) Claire Anne Taylor • Emma Russack Matt Walker • Roadhouses • Fallon Cush Lucie Thorne • Paddy McHugh • Jen Mize Magpie Diaries • Lyle Dennis Express Nicholas Connors • Georgia State Line Demi Mitchell • Ben Leece Dashville Progress Society Great Americana inspired food & booze, markets, kids activities & more. Various ticketing options available, all include camping for 1, 2 or 3 nights. See website for great deals on camp hire and glamping.

WWW.DASHVILLE.COM.AU 16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY

Night Glow! WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

Hot air ballooning enthusiasts will be in seventh heaven from dawn until dusk this month thanks to a new addition to this year’s Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta. Almost 30 hot air balloons will take to the skies as the sun rises over the Hunter Valley during the four-day festival, which will run from September 29 to October 2. But the party won’t stop when the sun goes down on Saturday, September 30 with an exciting new event set to light up the night – albeit much closer to the ground. The Hunter Valley Night Glow at Roche Estate will offer a sight that has to be seen to be believed as pilots create a choreographed light show with ten hot air balloons (tethered to the ground) by firing their burners in the dark in time to a musical soundtrack. Participating balloons will include the unusually-shaped Dodo and ‘Nudie’ balloons, as well as the newly launched Roche Estate Balloon, which is the biggest passenger balloon in Australia and the latest addition to the Balloon Aloft fleet. Gates for the Night Glow will open at 5pm, with live music and roving performers set to entertain the crowds and jumping castles and face painting included in the price of admission for the younger members of the family. The night will also offer people the chance to walk through a semi-inflated hot air balloon, while pilots will be on hand to explain just how

the balloons work and answer any questions. A variety of market stalls will showcase some of the Hunter Valley’s best wine and food, while people are encouraged to bring a picnic rug so they can sit back and enjoy dinner under the stars before the night finishes with a spectacular fireworks display over the Roche Estate vineyard. Inspired by similar events held in Canowindra and Leeton, as well as at other locations around the world, the Night Glow will be a first for the Hunter, expanding on what is already a hugely popular Fiesta program. The Hunter Valley Balloon Fiesta was created by Event Director and Balloon Aloft Senior Pilot Matthew Scaife who had participated in balloon fiestas around the world and saw an opportunity to showcase the beautiful Hunter Valley by holding a similar event here. Now in its seventh year, the event continues to grow in popularity, with last year’s Fiesta selling out weeks in advance. This year the program has been extended from two to four days to allow even more people the opportunity to be a passenger on one of the balloons. Close to thirty balloons from all over Australia are expected to take part in 2017, and while you can follow the action from the ground, there’s no doubt the best view in the house will be alongside the pilot in one of the baskets attached to the bottom of the balloons. ►

With the expanded program, more than 400 passengers will be given a chance to take part in the Fiesta for what will be the trip of a lifetime. The excitement begins just before dawn as the fleet of hot air balloons are inflated in the launch field before they take off to drift over the Hunter Valley vineyards for an hour. The celebrations will continue after the flight back at Peterson House Winery with live music, a gourmet breakfast and a champagne tasting to wrap up an exciting and fun-filled morning. Two-time Women’s World Ballooning Champion Nicola Scaife, who works as a pilot alongside her husband Matthew at Balloon Aloft, said being onboard one of the many balloons as they float together at dawn over the vineyards is a “truly breathtaking experience”. Nicola has been flying balloons for more than ten years and said the best thing about ballooning is the look of wonder on passengers’ faces each and every flight. “Ballooning is unique. The intricacy and variation in the wind patterns ensure that no two flights are ever the same,” she said. “Each and every time I fly, I am experiencing that flight for the first time too, and I can share a sense of wonder and exhilaration with my passengers. “It’s hard to describe ballooning to those who haven’t experienced it. There is a silence; a peacefulness that envelops you as soon as you leave the ground. “When you are floating so effortlessly hundreds of feet above the ground, your whole perspective of the world changes. “It is something that everyone needs to experience at least once in their lifetime.”

Music

From the Whitehouse to Dashville

Valerie June Since the release of her 2013 breakout Pushin’ Against A Stone, Valerie June has been patiently at work in the garden of song, nurturing seedlings that have blossomed into the record The Order Of Time.

FAMILY

Event!

Entry to the Night Glow is $16 for adults and $7 for children. To purchase your tickets for the Night Glow or book a flight on board one of balloons flying in the Fiesta, visit www.balloonaloft.com

With her star on a swift rise internationally, the Memphis native is heading to Australia and will stop past the Hunter Valley to perform at Dashville Skyline Festival on September 30. Now in its third year, Dashville Skyline is a celebration of Americana, alt-country, folk and psychedelia music, and is affectionately known as the “Cosmic Country Weekender.” Bringing together some of the world’s most talented musicians, it takes place at Lower Belford over the October long weekend, from September 29 to October 1 and is a family-friendly event. Name-checked by Bob Dylan as one of his new favourite artists, June was also invited by First Lady Michelle Obama to perform at The White House and she has toured with artists like Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, Sturgill Simpson, Norah Jones, and Jake Bugg in addition to flooring festival crowds at Bonnaroo, Outside Lands, Newport Folk, Hangout, ACL, Pickathon, Mountain Jam and more. Every track on June’s new record bears the influence of time. “Time is the ruler of Earth’s rhythm,” June explains. “Our daily lives revolve around it. Our hearts beat along to its song. If we let it, it can be a powerful guide to turning our greatest hopes and dreams into realities.” When it came time to record the follow-up, June felt liberated by the success, fearless and more confident than ever in trusting her instincts and following her muse. There was to be no rushing the music, no harvesting a song before it was ripe on the vine and ready to be plucked. When she sensed the time was right, June headed to rural Guilford, Vermont, with producer Matt Marinelli, spending long stretches through the fall and winter living and recording away from the hustle and bustle of her adopted home of Brooklyn. “They made us feel so welcome in Vermont,” remembers June. “I was cooking amazing food and hanging out with the band all the time. There were long talks and long walks in the snow, and friends would come up for holidays. I felt like I put myself in a place where I could really soar. With the last album, I was absorbing and learning and developing so much in the

studio, but this is me taking the things I learned and the things I felt in my heart and fighting for them.” June is a songwriter first and foremost, willing and able to blur the lines between genres and eras of sounds. The result is an eclectic blend of folk and soul and country and RnB and blues that makes The Order Of Time undoubtedly the finest work of her career. Opener ‘Long Lonely Road’ settles in like languid southern heat, as June looks back to the sacrifices of her parents and grandparents, singing in a gentle near-whisper of the sometimes difficult, sometimes beautiful journey we all must undertake in search of brighter days. On the soulful ‘Love You Once Made’, her voice is backed by rich horns and vintage organ as she makes peace with the specter of loss and the ephemeral nature of our relationships, while the bluesy juke joint rocker ‘Shake Down’ features backup vocals from her brothers, Jason and Patrick Hockett and father, Emerson Hockett recorded at home in Tennessee, and ‘Man Done Wrong’ centers on a hypnotic banjo riff that’s more African than Appalachian. “People shouldn’t necessarily think of bluegrass when they see the banjo,” explains June. “It was originally an African instrument, and people in America used to play all kinds of banjo: mandolin banjo, ukulele banjo, bass banjo, classical banjo, jazz banjo, there were even banjo orchestras. For some reason, people like to limit it and say it just has to be in folk and bluegrass, but to me, it can be in anything, and I really wanted to set the banjo free on this record.” Dashville Skyline is at Dashville, Lower Belford, from Friday, September 29 to Sunday, October 1 (October long weekend). Tickets are available through Ticketbooth or www.dashville.com.au. Glamping options are also available through Simple Pleasures www.simplepleasurescamping.co www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

High Energy Show Pays Tribute to

Music

King Of Pop WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

It’s been eight years since Michael Jackson’s sudden death shocked music fans around the world. But the King of Pop’s high-energy on-stage legacy lives on thanks to the scores of Michael Jackson impersonators who continue to pay tribute to his unique moves and music. Among the best is San Antonio-born performer William Hall, who is set to bring his global hit show Michael Jackson - The Legacy Tour back to Australia this month. Performing since the age of three, the Texan always knew he would spend his life on stage and has spent years perfecting his portrayal of the character, choreography and sound of the iconic pop superstar. A consummate musician playing keyboard, bass and drums, William studied art, business and music composition and production in college. But it was his activities outside the classroom during this time that set him on the path that would see him tour the world with his Jackson-inspired shows. “Many years ago I was a student in college, and of course the whole Jackson thing was really taking off in terms of him becoming what he became as a solo star,” Hall said. “I was singing in a band that I had in college, and we did a lot of things at parties, and things like that and most of it for me was Jackson’s music because of my voice and the sound. “I was approached by a promoter who asked me if I would be interested in doing a show. I’d never actually done a show before; I’d just been singing the songs, so I went home and put together a mini show, I mean why not? And the next thing I know I was doing Michael Jackson concerts.” While he has spent many years working for other companies and making his mark in Las Vegas, a few years ago, Hall decided to go out on his own again and create a new show paying tribute to Jackson’s music across the eras. “I came up with the concept (for the Legacy show) about six years ago, I started production on it in 2013, and I premiered it in 2015. I’ve been touring ever since,” he said. “I never thought I would go back to the way I started, and it’s almost like I’m starting another career now, but I love it. “I like to say to people who never saw Michael in concert that I’ve tried to put together segments from a lot of his different tours that he did over the last 25 years.” This world class production has toured the globe to rave reviews and is the only Michael Jackson show to feature staff, singers and band members who actually worked with Jackson on his own tours. The show features guitarist Tommy Organ from Jackson’s This Is It tour, while world renowned bassist Sam Sims, a longtime work affiliate of Jackson’s, is the show’s musical director.

It is choreographed by LaVelle Smith Jr, who featured in both the BAD and Dangerous tours and engineered by Michael Prince, who was Jackson’s personal engineer for more than 15 years. While Hall does an amazing job recreating Jackson’s sound on his own, his singing is also augmented by backing vocalists Kevin Dorsey and Ken Stacey, who worked with Jackson on three of his tours, as well as vocalist Jade Claggett. “It adds a certain quality to do what I’m doing that I think people will love,” Hall said.

“

18 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

I’ve been able to have certain people in my band that actually worked with Michael on some of these tours, and they understand everything I’m looking for as far as what Michael actually did.

“It’s not like I have to explain it to them a hundred times a day, they get it right from the beginning, and they know it already; that makes it a lot easier for me.” Hall’s connection to Jackson goes beyond his band though, with the superbly talented tribute artist having performed for a number of Jackson’s family members over the years, as well as the singer himself. “I’ve actually performed for basically his whole family, I’ve performed for Michael, I’ve performed for his mother, I’ve performed for his father, I’ve performed for Jermaine, but they were all at different times,” he said. “Michael’s was the most memorable because it was a lastminute thing, I didn't know he was coming.

“I just remember he was really taken aback by the fact I could do a lot of his ad-libbing, really capture the soul of what he was about, not just so much the likeness and the singing and the dancing, but the true connections with the audience. “I think that’s what really took him back but that was just something that I guess I was born with, I didn’t have to be taught that. It’s just such a natural thing for me to connect with the audience.” Hall will have plenty of opportunities to connect with Australian audiences over the next two months during the Legacy Tour, which features all the King of Pop’s biggest hits and is packed with authentic touches and flair. He will kick off his 29-show tour at Hornsby RSL on September 1 before a run of dates that will take him through NSW and Queensland, including a stop at Wests New Lambton on Wednesday, October 4. Tickets are on sale now via Proticket.

Australian Families (AFOM) present...

INVISIBLE WOUNDS BLACK TIE RED CARPET DINNER Saturday, October 21st With Special Guests Linda Hurley & Other Dignitaries Raffles & Auction* All money raised goes directly to support Military Families 3 course Meal, Band, Beer & Wine Corporate tables also available 6.30pm start with Canapés on arrival Starlight Room West Leagues Club, New Lambton

Tickets - $150 available via www.westsnewcastle.com.au or PH 4935 1181 Enquires - John Bettley PH 0404836765 or E jabettley@bigpond.com

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19

musicians, it’s also educational. Lah-Lah is all about introducing kids to music and musical instruments. They pride themselves on the educational content of their music, TV show and live tour and are fervent advocates of early childhood music. Lah-Lah are also celebrating the 2017 Sony Music release of their new album Having Fun, along with their super national live concert tour, featuring lots of brand new tunes from the album with songs like “I Love Books”, “Number Jive” and a funny twist on “Old MacDonald” (Had a Band) as well as jamming on some of their favourite hits including “Brush Your Teeth” and “Lola Loves to Dance”! Experience Australia’s most interactive children’s show for 50 minutes of live music, singing, dancing, and fun! And don’t miss the chance to meet everyone Get ready to pull on your best red, white in the band after the show via a meet and and black stripes because everyone will greet with the full cast and their wonderful be Having Fun with the stars of ABC KIDS, musical instruments! So, come and join Lah-Lah’s Big Live Band, as they prepare the leaders in preschool music education to tour around Australia in 2017. The this year. The gang from Lah-Lah can’t wait award winning cast from the ABC KIDS TV to help you introduce your little ones to live series Lah-Lah’s Adventures have a brand music and the magical world of musical new and exciting show to take around the instruments while they’re Having Fun in country. Having fun is the best way to learn, and 2017! If you see one family concert this year that is exactly what happens at a Lah-Lah make it “Having Fun” with Lah-Lah’s Big show. A show that is different from any Live Band at Wests City on September 20. other family concert - it’s not just full of It’s sure to be a sell-out, so get in fast at singing and dancing and incredible live www.kidspromotions.com.au music played by some of Australia’s best

HAVING FUN WITH LAH-LAH

LET'S GET CYCLING

Newcastle!

SPRING FLING

at The Library Blow off the winter blues with Newcastle Region Library's Spring Fling celebrations! Visit during the first two weeks of September for a blooming bonanza of fun and interesting programs. Spruce up your nest - Learn to make beautiful paper flowers, try your hand at bonsai, or satisfy your curiosity about succulents with their gardening and cooking programs. • Experience virtual reality with a tour of a virtual spring garden, or create an actual container garden to take home. • Discover new and delicious ways of enjoying spring produce with a cooking demonstration. • Be enchanted by a May Gibbs pop-up exhibition featuring reproductions of her iconic artwork. History, fauna and flora - Delight in the beauty of spring in Newcastle with talks unique to our community.

Connecting the dots on cycling's benefits Recent research shows that while just 12.5 per cent of people across NSW cycle at least once a week, in Newcastle it's more than 20 per cent. And almost one in three riders do so for transport, rather than recreation, making it even more important to establish connected cycleways. "The key to a successful cycleways network is to provide high-standard facilities, such as off-road pathways where practical, which link key destinations," said Newcastle City Council interim CEO Jeremy Bath. "Safety concerns are often a stumbling point when it comes to convincing people to switch from driving to cycling, so we are looking at separating cars and bikes where we can and making our roads more cycle-friendly." An estimated 80 per cent of car trips in Newcastle are less than 10km. With the city's relatively flat terrain, and signposted routes making for easy navigation, cycling is a realistic, sustainable, healthy and fun transport alternative. Newcastle is already home to some great cycleways, from Fletcher in the west to the Bathers Way shared coastal pathway. The challenge now is to "connect the dots" between them, either with safe on-road options or separated pathways.

The weather is warming, and it's a great time to get on your bike Continuing the journey for transport and recreation. The wheels are turning on millions of dollars' worth of new There are so many reasons to increase the time you cycleways, extensions and improvements across Newcastle. spend cycling. Personal benefits include more time outdoors, "We want to encourage more people to ride more often," increased fitness and improved social connections while getting said Council's senior transport strategist, Natalie McCabe. out of your car is also better for the environment and reduces "That means building confidence that riders can cycle to their congestion. Plus, it can be quicker than driving. destination in a way that is convenient and safe, and a big part Cycleways are a key part of Newcastle's transport network of that is expanding and improving the cycle network." as we move toward our vision of a "connected city". Improving Council will spend $2.4million on cycleways this financial the city's cycleways is one of Newcastle City Council's priority year, with another $3million expected to be allocated in 2018 projects, with a focus on expanded infrastructure, safety and 2019. education and encouraging more people to cycle. 20 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

• Learn about Wattle Day and the Mattara Festival with Local History talks and view photos and books from the heritage collection. • Hear about the diversity and importance of the Hunter's dry forests to woodland birds and discover why migratory birds return to Stockton each year. • Speak with Council staff to learn about the important role of native vegetation and take home a free plant. Jane Austen lovers unite - It's been 200 years since her death, but Jane Austen's writing is as beloved as ever. Feed your sense and your sensibility with these Austen-inspired events. • See a free screening of 'Love & Friendship', the film adaption of Lady Susan. • Enjoy an enchanting Regency Picnic, complete with music, dancing, guest speakers and Regency games at Lambton Park. • Explore the 'Literary Landscapes of England' through a fascinating talk presented by the Jane Austen Society - Hunter Chapter. For the spring chickens - The younger set will enjoy: • Brilliant spring after school activities, including a container garden workshop and paper flower making. • A range of school holiday events and programs, with bees, bugs, bonsai and even a bush dance! • Spring storytimes for 3 to 5 year olds featuring speakers from Hunter Wetlands Centre. Programs are on at various library branch locations. Spring at the Library is always popular so book in early at www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/ Library

Work underway or being planned includes: Maud Street crossing (University to CBD) • Installation of cyclist-friendly traffic lights • Measures to calm traffic in Vera, King, Queen and Prince Streets Proposed changes have recently been on public exhibition and submissions are being reviewed. Council is continuing with detailed design of a shared path in the rail corridor under the Maud St bridge. Merewether to CBD • On-road "bicycle boulevard" on Corlette St from Laman St to Glebe Rd and off-road path on Watkins St • Traffic study underway • Detailed design nearing completion Plans are expected to go on public exhibition in the near future. Broadmeadow to Newcastle West • Beaumont St to Selma St off-road cycleway section under construction • Design of Donald Street rail overpass section underway "Now that we have laid out the path for the future of cycling in Newcastle, it's time to keep the momentum going," McCabe said.

PEDAL ALONG TO FREE BIKE WEEK COMMUNITY BREKKIE 9am to 12pm, Sunday 24 September 2017 - Lambton Park, Morehead Street, Lambton Come out to Lambton Park for a free Bike Week community brekkie! Enjoy a free breakfast, prizes and bicycle safety checks. Newcastle City Council staff will be on hand to chat about current and proposed cycleways projects and distribute cycling maps and materials. Bring the family along!

Tireless support for

INVISIBLE

WOUNDS

“I had no luck obtaining grants for any research. The last attempt was knocked back even after the head of Defence had said it was exactly what was needed. “So I went back home and started the Foundation to raise money to get the research done. In the meantime, I did a PhD (via publication), so there was some Australian peer-reviewed WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN research. “During that time our Board became more involved with Psychologist Gail McDonnell understands all too well the support in our work – and we changed our name to Australian important role families can play in helping military personnel Families of the Military Research and Support Foundation.” and veterans suffering from “invisible wounds” to heal. Her Since its establishment, AFOM has helped give countless husband Robert is a Vietnam veteran who spent almost two military and veteran’s families a voice, advocating for them on years in and out of the hospital during the late 1990's seeking a range of issues including making a submission to last year’s treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Senate inquiry into the mental health of Defence personnel. He continues his battle towards recovery today with help It has also created valuable connections between families from his family and the not-for-profit organisation Gail set through workshops, retreats and support groups, with their up - Australian Families of the Military Research and Support assistance also extending to the families of those first line Foundation (AFOM). responders such as Police, Ambulance, Fire and Rescue, and While it began with a simple support group established SES, who are suffering from similar mental health issues. in Maitland in 1998, AFOM has grown considerably over the “We have found that through our Invisible Wounds years, reaching out across various states in Australia to provide workshops we have brought people together,” Gail said. support to, and advocate for, the needs of partners and “Though there is a lot of media about the issues families families of past and current Australian military personnel. face, many do not believe it is the ‘same for them’ until they Gail said one of its core aims is to fund, coordinate and actually meet and talk to others - this has happened a great promote research “that is not encumbered by political and/or deal at those workshops, and even more so through the departmental outcomes.” retreats we run. “My husband is a Vietnam veteran who suffers from post“All this applies to first line responders (as well). Since our traumatic stress disorder. This has caused much anxiety, distress and dysfunction in our family over the years,” she said. Invisible Wounds workshops, we have found so many of them with the same issues – along with their families, so we are “AFOM came about for several reasons. I had been on attempting to help them as well. national forums to do with the veteran community for many “We refer people onto organisations where possible; our years, and at the beginning, there was no real recognition of aim is not to reinvent the wheel but to use resources that are the importance of family in the healing of veterans, let alone already available. the support that the families required. “I was doing my undergrad in psychology and attempting to “We like to collaborate with other organisations rather than obtain a grant for research pertinent to this area. trying to do everything ourselves, which would be an impossible “A bureaucrat had told me that they had no evidence to task. We would very much like to work together with other support what I had been saying at these forums. I told him organisations on events and supporting military families.” about overseas research, and I was told that it was not AFOM has been working on a pilot program designed to pertinent to Australia. increase mental health literacy at a grassroots level through

peer groups and retreats, with the overall aim of highlighting the resources available, removing the stigma around mental health conditions and, ultimately, reducing the suicide rate. To raise funds for the program AFOM will host the Invisible Wounds Black Tie Red Carpet Dinner at Wests New Lambton on Saturday, October 21. Tickets are $150pp and include a three-course meal, live music from Newcastle rock band Defaced, drinks and canapes. This will be the first major fundraiser organised by the Foundation, but Gail hopes there will be plenty of people in the Hunter keen to support the worthy cause. “This is our first major fundraiser, and we are novices at anything this big,” she said. “We are all volunteers and work in between our other paid and unpaid community work. “We are hoping for well over 100 people, and we do not have a fundraising target… but we are hoping for some people/ organisations to come to our event to show support for our military families and bring their money for our raffles and auctions. “The money raised will be used to help fund stage one of our model, hopefully going towards the trial of our proposed model to increase mental health awareness and literacy in the community, reduce stigma and suicide and suicidality. “Funds will go directly to frontline activities for military and first line responders, and their families, as well as subsequent research.” This research includes a study being undertaken by the University of New England’s (UNE) School of Behavioural and Cognitive Science and co-supervised by Gail, which will examine post-traumatic growth and secondary traumatisation in the partners of post-traumatic stress disorder affected combat veterans. The Foundation is also launching a scholarship program through UNE, which offers $1500 per annum for up to three years for a PhD student enrolled in an area of study related to PTSD, with preference given for research on the families of military personnel or frontline responders. Applications for the scholarship close on September 29. “We have set up a program with the University of New England and have just organised our first try at awards,” Gail said. “If this is successful we can hopefully increase the funds and expand our goal of promoting, coordinating and funding research that is not encumbered by political and/or departmental outcomes. It's baby steps so far (but) we want to have a solid foundation on which to build.” For more information about the Australian Families of the Military Research and Support Foundation visit www.afom.org. au or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24-hour crisis support. Tickets to the Invisible Wounds Black Tie Red Carpet Dinner can be purchased via the Wests New Lambton website or by phoning 4935 1181.

AFOM Board Members with Jacqui Lambie, Ruth Rogers (left), Graham Walker AM (right) and Gail (middle right).

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

What's On?

WHAT’S HAPPENING DURING SEPTEMBER AT

MORE CHOICE MORE STORES NOW OPEN HABITANIA - Visit Level 1 past Myer for all your homewares, kitchenware and gift needs! SURF, DIVE & SKI - Level 1 near Target BARBER INDUSTRIES - Ground Floor CHA-TIME - Level 2 near Reading Cinemas SEOUL DUMPLING & NOODLES - Level 2 in The Food Terrace SUMO SALAD - Level 2 in The Food Terrace

OPENING SOON SEPHORA – the global beauty retailer will open its first store in The Hunter on Saturday 9 September. As the largest shopping destination in the region, Charlestown Square is home to over 65 unique stores including H&M, Myer, The Apple Store, Mecca Maxima, Nike and SEPHORA will be the next covetable name on that list.

MORE FUN! Get ready for Holey Moley - the craziest round of mini golf you’ve ever played! Due to tee off on Friday 22 September in The South Piazza.

COMING SOON For session times visit readingcinemas.com.au - Captain Underpants - The Lego Ninjago Movie - The Emoji Movie

22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Controversial and Critically Acclaimed ADAM CULLEN One of Australia’s most colourful, collectable contemporary artists, Adam Cullen was well-known for his involvement in the “grunge” art movement of the early 1990's. His work examined everything from masculinity, crime and cowboy culture.

Calling You...

LYN BOWTELL

Lyn Bowtell first came to prominence as songwriter and singer for multi-award winning Country Pop trio BELLA. Since then she has released two critically acclaimed solo albums, Secret Songs in 2012, and Heart of Sorrow in 2014. Lyn’s new release Calling You is due out on September 15 with an official launch at Lyn's favourite local venue, Lizotte's the following night (September 16). This six track EP marks a departure from ‘Alt' to ‘Pop', brimming with the singer's soulful, striking vocals and connecting deeply with raw emotion as only Bowtell can. Calling You was recorded on the Central Coast, with producer Shane Nicholson at the helm, and once again Lyn and Shane have proven a formidable team. Stand out tracks include He Burns, All My Life, Calling You and Fields Of Gold highlight the powerful and sublime voice that turned heads and four red chairs on national television in Channel Nine's The Voice Australia earlier this year. With her choice of all four judges, she became part of ‘Team George’. When asked about her time with this music icon, Lyn describes him as not only incredibly talented but generous, funny and most importantly he knows who he is as an artist.

Being passionate about art and drawing from an early age, Adam Cullen produced cartoons for the local Collaroy Plateau newspaper and went on to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts, a Diploma of Professional Art and a Master of Fine Arts, finishing his academic career in 1999. In the event that foresaw his artistic fascination with death and decomposition, Cullen lived for two weeks during his schooling with a decaying pig’s head chained to his ankle as part of a performance art project. Attending classes and reportedly sleeping with his leg out of the window to avoid the growing stench, he only abandoned the act when the local bus driver refused to let him aboard with the rotting appendage. Cullen received the distinguished Archibald Prize in 2000 with his portrait of actor David Wenham. This recognition resulted in a much larger audience for his works, and his style changed noticeably to a bolder pop-art style, featuring strong black outlines and thick, dripping paints. Despite becoming a critically acclaimed artist, Cullen continued to create controversy, illustrating notorious criminal Chopper Reid’s book Hooky the Cripple in 2002. In 2012, Cullen passed away in his sleep at only 47 years of age. Cullen’s works are represented in all major art galleries in Australia, and until September 11, Cooks Hill Galleries is delighted to showcase what is possibly the largest private collection of works by this iconic Australian artist as part of the Adam Cullen and the Cubists’ exhibition, which also features art by Gavin Fry and Shannon Woodward. This collection includes two major works that have previously been exhibited at the Art Gallery of NSW and Cullen's iconic Ned Kelly, Roo and Horses. For more information visit www.cookshillgalleries.com.au

SEPT

16th

Now the six times Golden Guitar recipient is heading in a new direction, with a broader, larger audience ready to follow. “I'm no longer willing to be confined to a 'genre box' anymore. I want to show a bigger audience my full range as a singer and songwriter. I feel so connected to these six tracks; they are bright, bold and exciting. I can't wait to share them, live and recorded,” says Bowtell. After the official launch, Lyn will head off around the country with dates in Sydney, Melbourne and Tamworth. On December 3, she will take the stage at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre as part of the bill for the Culture Club concert. Appearing as a special guest artist with fellow team George contestant and finalist, Hoseah Partsch. Bowtell and Partsch are planning a special duet, and Lyn will sing one of her new tracks. For more information on dates and new music head to www.lynbowtell.com

MIXING OLD & NEW

YOU’RE INVITED…. A memorial service to remember the Passchendaele Campaign and honour the supreme sacrifice of Private Stephen Sarsfield Scott, 35th Battalion, 1st AIF, who fell on 12 October 1917 at the 1st Battle of Passchendaele. WHEN Thursday, 12 October at 10am, Catholic 1 section

With Taxiride’s Jason Singh

album showcased Jason’s flawless vocals and songwriting prowess. As one reviewer put it “Humannequin sets a new benchmark with sky scraping pop songs,” (Herald Sun, Melbourne). In 2015 Jason Singh embarked on his At the beginning of the noughties, Taxiride most exciting and original challenge yet The was at the top of the Australian music industry with nine top 40 hit singles including Jason Singh Project. Setting himself the goal the top five hits Get Set, Everywhere You Go, of delivering six singles in 12 months, Jason and Creepin’ Up Slowly – which was the most wrote, produced and released a new single every eight weeks out of his home studio in played song on Australian radio in 2002. Melbourne. They established themselves as one In 2017, off the back of the sold out of Australia’s premier live bands playing countless sold out shows. Taxiride toured the Red Hot Summer Tour with Taxiride as part world including supporting Tina Turner across of their 20th Anniversary tour and his solo support to John Farnham in February, Jason Europe with two sold out shows at Wembley joined multi-Grammy nominated pop-rock Stadium. They had two consecutive number trio Hanson as part of their sell-out Middle one platinum selling albums and won the 1999 ARIA for ‘Breakthrough Artist – Single’. Of Everywhere World Tour. Always writing, and with a new mantra of ‘be completely Jason Singh was the bands charismatic vulnerable,’ Jason’s new music will see a front-man and founding member. In 2013 departure from the power synth pop of the Jason released his highly anticipated solo Jason Singh Project, and take a huge leap album Humannequin, produced by the into the adult contemporary space, offering legendary Australian producer Charles both modern sophistication and edge. Fisher. Charles is often referred to as ‘the Jason will deliver a mix of the old and song doctor’ and has recorded and produced the new when he performs at Lizotte's on for a laundry list of huge names including October 19. Tickets are available from Midnight Oil, Cold Chisel, Savage Garden, www.lizottes.com.au INXS, The Police and Elvis Costello. The

GLEN MILLER ORCHESTRA The long-awaited return of the greatest big band of the 1940's, The Glenn Miller Orchestra, a concert spectacular is returning to Australia and will hit the stage at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre on September 17, featuring the unforgettable music of the 1940's from the Golden era of Swing... a sentimental journey down memory lane to celebrate the Glenn Miller Orchestra’s 80th anniversary. The World famous Glenn Miller Orchestra will feature 24 musicians, singers and

WHERE Sandgate Cemetery, 116 Maitland Road RSVP Glen Amies - g.amies@ northerncemeteries.com.au or 4968 3602. Sandgate Cemetery’s WW1 researcher Gary Mitchell will honour fellow 1st AIF soldiers who fell during this campaign (September - November 1917) who are memorialised or awaiting memorialisation at Sandgate Cemetery.

dancers – a presentation that highlights the great ‘Big Band’ hits, the original Glenn Miller arrangements, the music of The Andrews Sisters, Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra and the romantic World War II melodies made famous by Vera Lynn – music which captivated millions of people worldwide- are all brought together on stage in a nostalgic concert spectacular. The Concert will also feature sensational dance routines by the Broadway Swing Dancers. The Glenn Miller musical arrangements are unique; even after 80 years, they are still enjoyed worldwide – timeless icons of American culture such as Chattanooga ChooChoo, In the Mood, Tuxedo Junction, A String of Pearls, Moonlight Serenade, Little Brown Jug and Pennsylvania 6-5000... music hits which captivated millions of people. “The Glenn Miller Orchestra is a colourful and flamboyant evening filled with all the fun and nostalgia of the 30's and 40's. Our unique jazz sound is sought all around the world, and in addition to recreating the golden era of swing, we bring to life the colour, costumes and spirit. Having travelled across the globe, The Glenn Miller Orchestra is delighted to be bringing iconic tunes such as In The Mood and Moonlight Serenade to Australia", said Musical Director Rick Gerber. Don’t miss out - for tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Looking for quality, yet affordable furniture made from beautiful Australian plantation hardwood that is hand made locally? Looking for furniture that’s fresh and contemporary, where you can have your own design ideas created? Look no further than Wildflower Giftware! Open 6 Days Monday to Saturday 9am till 4.30pm.

262 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay NSW 2282 • PH 4953 7390 • www.wildflowerfurniture.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 23

Global Decor Global Treasures | Lifestyle Products | Exclusive Items Luxe Living | Island Style

Step-by-Step Guide Building Your Own FIRE PIT are laid to ensure that they are all level from front to back and side to side before placing the next block. This will ensure a level base course.

Backyard fire pits are becoming increasingly popular as we look to utilise the outdoor space in winter with functional landscaping features. Essentially, a fire pit is the new water feature, transforming the outdoor area into a cosy and inviting space. “The ambience a fire pit brings is worth the investment alone, providing an enjoyable feature for the garden and a natural gathering spot for socialising and entertaining. It’s a great focal point, I like to describe it as nature’s TV and people are naturally drawn to the campfire-like atmosphere,” explains landscape expert, Adbri Masonry brand ambassador and TV Presenter, Jason Hodges. Here, Jason offers a simple step-by-step DIY guide to building your very own fire pit: Materials required*: •AB® Courtyard York Blocks x 56 •AB® Courtyard Caps x 28 •Tube of Masonry Adhesive x 2 •Metal Fire Ring (opt) x 1 •20kg Bags of Crushed Rock x 10 •20kg Bags of Decorative Rock (opt) x 6 1. Excavation - After you determine the location of your fire pit, you will need to excavate the area. Lay the first course of Adbri AB® Courtyard York blocks so you can mark the location of where the blocks will be. Remove the blocks and dig a level trench 75mm deep and 178mm wide or excavate the full circle. 2. Creating the Foundation - Fill the trench with a weak mix of sand and cement, about 6:1 (6 parts sand and 1-part cement). Take your time to ensure the foundation is level. Place 4 x AB® Courtyard blocks at the cross points of the circle and use a straight 2x4 and a level to check the entire trench is level. Make adjustments by adding or removing the sand and cement screed. 3. Laying the First Course - Place the base course of blocks on the foundation pad, check the levelling each time a few blocks 24 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

4. Second Course - Stack the next course of blocks, making adjustments as necessary. Once installed, remove sod/vegetation from the centre of the fire pit area. Lay approx. 6 x 23 kg bags of clean rock within the circle to cover the bottom of the fire pit. Then using a shovel, rake smooth.

5. Finish with Wall Caps - Place AB® Courtyard Caps on top of the fire pit, securing them with a tube of masonry adhesive. 6. Finishing Touches - Install decorative rock to line the interior of the pit. Place a steel bowl or metal fire ring in the centre to contain the flames and get the marshmallows ready. Local Stockists – Lee Rowans Garden World Warners Bay and Bunnings.

Shop 1/88 Mitchell Street, Merewether NSW 2291. PH 0403 215 475 OPEN Tues to Fri 10am - 4pm, Saturday 10am - 2pm www.saltandstone.com.au SaltandStoneLiving SaltandStone

PROPERTY Staging... Is it Worth Doing? WORDS DEBORAH BARTLETT insideout Newcastle At insideout, we believe property staging is worth doing. Understanding the difference between staging a home to sell and doing interior styling is something we do know. Selling an empty home will decrease your chance of a quick sale and finding the correct buyer will be more difficult. Determining the target audience is one of the important considerations we look at when deciding what to put into a property. The property itself will determine the type of furniture and accessories to use. An emotional connection to the property is what will help a quicker sale. Property staging or property styling is becoming a popular way to help sell a house or apartment and get the best price possible. Understanding the difference between staging to sell and styling clients homes is imperative. An open home presented well and staged to the target audience (not the homeowner) will quickly create interest. Staging gives potential buyers an emotional connection to a property, whereas an empty home will make it difficult for potential buyers to imagine living there and to see the possibilities. Properties need to be furnished and accessorised to suit the style of the home and the target market determined. Decluttering, cleaning, well-placed furniture pieces and depersonalising will help a buyer see themselves living in this home. While researching potential properties to buy, successfully staged homes will stand out from the crowd. Buyers are attracted as soon as they open their computer - interests are ignited and will lead to more enquiries and inspections. Our first recommendation if you want to sell a property is to ask for advice at the very

start of the decision making process. Partial staging is always an option if you are still living in the home but decluttering is a must! After all, you don’t want to take unnecessary items with you. Depersonalising is also necessary, remove photographs and trophies etc. This will help the buyer to imagine living in the home. We then come in and add the magic touch. Beautiful bedrooms, art, rugs and furniture will enhance the lifestyle change your buyer is looking for. From our experience, the most successful staging is when the property has been emptied and a fully styled home is presented. These homes enjoy a great advantage over many other properties on the market.

FROM ONE PIECE TO A WHOLE HOUSE OUR INHOUSE DESIGNERS WILL HELP YOU FIND YOUR STYLE! make an appointment today!

5 TIPS TO PREPARE YOUR HOME FOR SALE: 1. Clean Clean Clean! 2. Attend to obvious repairs, e.g. cracked windows, torn screens, painting if required. 3. Declutter – a chance to rethink all the things we collect and what you don’t want to take with you. 4. Take a close look at the front entrance of your home. Attend to gardens and front entrance. Make it as appealing as possible. E.g. new plants, mulch and tidy lawn, new front door. 5. Property stage to get the best possible outcome. Ask questions and start the journey to sell your property for the best possible outcome. Visit www.insideoutstyle.com.au for more information.

192 parry street, newcastle west, nsw 2302 t 02 4962 5577 f 02 4962 5588 w www.insideoutstyle.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 25

E AT TH

Markets

Picturesque PRINTS WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN

Interior Design | Curtains & Blinds Custom Furniture | Art | Accessories At Tailored HQ we work to make spaces as unique as you are. Our dedicated team has everything you need to customise your home to achieve your dream look.

Suite 1A, Ground Floor, 41-45 Hunter Street, Newcastle. Phone 4047 2330

www.tailoredhq.com.au 26 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

accessories, as well as a line of vintage-style purses, with the belief that art can be both For an artist who takes her inspiration from beautiful and functional. nature, there are few better places to live Her clothing embraces simple, flattering than the Blue Mountains. Former Newcastle cuts that serve to exhibit and complement printmaker Miranda Earle made the move to her beautiful fabric. Miranda is also currently the picturesque location at the start of the developing prints on large panels that will be year, surrounding herself with the flowers exhibited as wall art. These panels are of an and trees that inspire her beautiful range of impressive scale, aimed to capture the full handcrafted clothing and fabric. impact of the tessellating designs. “As of the beginning of 2017 I have been “Creating a clothing line was just a natural living and working in the Blue Mountains. It progression to get the prints out there into the is such a beautiful place and the inspiration world and to allow people to enjoy them,” she of nature is all around! Right now there said. are flowering bulbs and blossom trees “I am a great believer that art can be everywhere.” she said. functional. It is about the pure enjoyment of “The inspiration for a new design often beauty and what better way of doing that than comes from sights and experiences walking, pottering in the garden or someone’s beautiful wearing it on your body. “I try to design the types of clothes that I bunch of flowers on their table. I love flowers! If I had the time, I would make a print for every like to wear and that I find useful. Basically this means classic and timeless so that I can flower in the world.” wear them year after year with no thought of Miranda has been experimenting with “current trends”, sturdy yet elegant which led fabric prints since she was a teenager and 20 years later she remains just as passionate me to an extensive exploration of hemp fabric, which is just so versatile and my favourite about the process and the end product fabric, but also linen, and organic cottons with she creates. She now passes on her finely good structure are up there too. honed knowledge to others through regular The artist, designer and printmaker workshops, during which she teaches completes all the designs and sewing herself participants how to create their own design and then sells her wares online and via events from scratch, develop it into a repeat pattern such as the Olive Tree Market. design and print onto fabric. “I have been a part of the Olive Tree Market “It was a high-school art project, carving since 2009 when I was approached by the lion-blocks and printing onto fabric, that got market’s manager, Justine Gaudry, to have a me started, and I have just kept developing stall and showcase my work. the technique and designs,” Miranda said. “My ongoing involvement with this market “I have always been fascinated with pattern as it grew, developed and expanded was a and developed a love of fabric and sewing huge part of living the dream of starting my from my wonderful grandma. I love drawing own business doing what brings me great and illustrating plants and flowers especially, joy. It is an awesome community of truly then using the inspiration of their natural professional and highly-skilled artists and forms to develop a repeat pattern. genuine craftspeople. “I then transfer the design onto artist’s You can find out more information about linoleum and carve a relief fabric-printing Miranda Earle’s designs online at block. It takes a bit of time, but it is a very www.mirandaearle.com or by checking out tactile, hands-on, textural process. I also love her stall at the Olive Tree Market, which will the repetition of printing. There is something be held at Civic Park from 9am to 3pm on so satisfying about it! It is a kind of flow, a Saturday, September 2, followed by markets meditation almost.” on October 7 and November 4. Miranda uses her hand-printed fabrics to construct a gorgeous range of clothing and

Experience the comfort of IMG Norway. Norwegian designed furniture that delivers world leading comfort. Motion home theatre suits, Nordic Recliners and fixed sofas, all available in your choice of fabric or leather. Try the range in store today. Now available at Lyall Buick Furniture. 1/50 Northcott Drive, Kotara NSW 2289 T 02 4952 5123 | W www.lyallbuickfurniture.com.au

Silver

LININGS Bring on the bling by introducing an alwayssophisticated grey or silver colour palette into your home. Incorporate a little or a lot – it’s a scheme that’s as elegant as it is versatile. Here’s our top picks...

Designer Boys Artwork - available in different sizes and frame options. Prices start from RRP $415. insideout Newcastle Comfort of Norway Nordic Chair and Footstool from RRP $1298. Available from Lyall Buick Furniture, Kotara.

Stardust Latte Mug (set of 2) designed by Robert Gordon RRP $34.95; Bottle Grinder Set in Ash and Carbon, designed By Norm Architects for MENU RRP $139. Available from Tailored HQ, Newcastle

Long Glass Vase with Mesh RRP $84; Shiny Glass Bottle RRP $79; DWBH Homewares Embossed Breakfast Bowl RRP $14 and Plate RRP $19. All available from Wildflower Furniture Warners Bay

The Eco Weave Twin Couch can be unzipped into two single-seaters if you need to separate - RRP $539. Available from insideout Newcastle DWBH Homewares Embroidered Cushion RRP $44 from Wildflower Furniture Warners Bay;

BATHROOM VANITIES

What’s Your Style?

28 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

The vanity is the real hub of the bathroom so choosing a vanity is a very important part of bathroom design. Not only does it need to look good, fit properly and suit the rest of your bathroom, but it also needs to be functional and useful. The choice you make will either leave you feeling dissatisfied with your new bathroom or leave you feeling like you nailed exactly the look you wanted. Choice of style, choice of basin, where to locate the vanity; you’ll have to weigh all of this carefully to make the right decision. At Wildflower Furniture, their stunning bathroom vanities are hand-made and customised to suit your style. Make your bathroom as unique as you are by adding one of their solid timber vanities. Each one is hand made by their qualified tradesmen in their local factory and

constructed out of solid Victorian Ash timber with other timbers such as Blackbutt also available on request. As with all Wildflower Furniture, each vanity is coated with a marine grade 2-Pac polyurethane coating to seal the timber as well as your choice of timber stains. For a super modern look choose from their large range of stone or marble tops. You may also want to consider maximising your bathroom storage space by adding one of their simple but effective storage solutions including shaving cabinets and storage towers available in a range of sizes with your choice of timber stain. With mirrored doors and adjustable shelves, these units will add storage without compromising the contemporary style of your bathroom.

Trieste Silver Rug made from 100% handwoven wool - prices start from RRP $899 for the 160cmx230cm size. Available from insideout Newcastle

NEWCASTLE’S CHOICE FOR STYLE AND COMFORT

ENJOY LUXURY Custom Euro Cushion, feather filled 65cm x 65cm, fabric: Miko – Vanish (below, top) $159; Custom Velvet Cushion (POA), fabric: Alabaster Velvet with Catherine Martin embroidered ribbon detail and feather fill (middle); Custom Rectangular Cushion, feather filled, 35cm x 50cm, fabric: Andrew Martin – Metropolis (bottom) $129. All available from Tailored HQ, Newcastle

If you are looking for ideas and inspiration, check out Wildflower Furniture’s website and social media pages where you will find photos of their own designs and also custom orders they have made in the past. Alternatively, pop into their showroom in Warners Bay where they would be more than happy to discuss not only your bathroom ideas and range of available options, but they can also bring your dream to life using 3D computer technology. In addition, for a small fee of $130 (which is redeemable on any order you place with them) they will visit you at home to discuss your bathroom vanity design options.

81-87 LAMBTON ROAD, BROADMEADOW | PH 4961 6592 Wildflower Furniture 262 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay 2282. PH 4953 7390 OPEN 6 days Monday to Saturday, 9am till 4.30pm. www.wildflowerfurniture.com.au

WWW.COMO.COM.AU COMO Leather & Furniture

como_living www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 29

Cradle Mountain - Lake St Claire Natiional Park

TRAVEL //

Are Group Tours for You? The concept of Group Tours has changed dramatically over the years. Group tours are no longer focused purely on mature-aged travellers. You can now find a Group Tour to suit almost every type of traveller. For Culinary lovers, there are food and wine and cooking tours. For the active there are walking, cycling, golf or fishing tours, for the health-conscious there Wellness and Meditation retreats, there are Historical and Religious Tours, Special event tours, plus unique interest tours, e.g., Elvis Appreciation and Northern Lights Photography! If you have a special interest, we can also tailor make a group package to suit your needs and budget! The benefits of Group tours are many - you have a personal tour guide on hand at all times, you often see more than you would travelling on your own, you receive group rates for accommodation and attractions, and you will return home with many new friends. PLUS have avoided the inevitable navigation battles with your travel companion! Of course, there are still the comfortable largecoach, easy paced group tours for mature aged passengers who enjoy the company of others and want to have everything organised so they can simply enjoy the sights and experiences along the way. AAT Kings Coach Tours are featured in our ad (next page) and offer a massive range of holidays taking you to the heart of each destination. Their tours offer multi-night stops, many meals, sightseeing and have the most experienced Travel Directors and Driver Guides in Australia. To find out more about the amazing range of Group tours on offer, please contact itravel The Junction or itravel Warners Bay.

itravel The Junction

PH 4962 1116

194 Union Street sales@itravelthejunction.com.au

itravel Warners Bay

PH 4947 1116

Shop 8a, 478 The Esplanade sales@itravelwarnersbay.com.au

Tasmania...

Compact, Picturesque and Relaxed WORDS MEGAN O'SULLIVAN

It’s time to tick Tassie off your bucket list! Get amongst the idyllic scenery of Russell Falls, the Gordon River, Cradle Mountain and Freycinet National Park, then step back in time at Port Arthur and in Hobart. We won’t let you leave without sampling local cheese, boutique wine and more! Experience what the island state is world-renowned for idyllic scenery, abundant wildlife, gourmet food and wine, art and friendly locals. Explore Hobart’s Salamanca, witness the stunning natural beauty of Russell Falls, Cradle Mountain – why not take an unforgettable cruise on Wineglass Bay on the Freycinet Peninsula, a location of peace and beauty. Lose yourself in Tasmania’s stunning West Coast. Chat with locals at Salamanca Market and be awestruck by Russell Falls, the dark waters of Gordon River and purity of Cradle Mountain. Savour fresh Tasmanian salmon and ginseng products at 41° South Salmon Farm and indulge at Josef Chromy Wines. Tasmania's East Coast, with its natural beauty and long beautiful beaches, offers a completely different Australian coastal experience. Discover hidden gems such as

Scamander, with a huge array of native flora and birds. Tasmania's North West is the gateway to some of Tasmania's most beautiful natural places. Exploring the North West, you'll find classic coastal drives, food trails, stunning national parks and beautiful nature reserves. It’s a great place for touring, with spectacular views at every turn and some of Tasmania's prettiest cities and towns. Tasmania's North West is also home to the Tarkine, and the spectacular World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The Tarkine Forest is the world’s greatest expanse of cool temperate rainforest. One of Tasmania’s most visited natural attractions, Cradle Mountain offers some of the best scenery in the world. Surrounded by glacial lakes, ancient rainforest, and unusual alpine vegetation, it's easy to appreciate the beauty of this unique place on one of the many short walks found in the area. Since 1912, AAT Kings as a tour operator has been helping people from all over the world discover and explore Australia and New Zealand from top to bottom. With a broad range of holiday options including Guided Tours, Short Breaks and Day Tours, AAT Kings are the holiday experts. You can relax in the comfort of knowing you’re in the best of hands. They have over 100 years of experience in taking care of absolutely everything so that you can get on with creating great new memories. If you would like a detailed itinerary on this or would like to look at any other AAT Kings Tassie Tour, please contact itravel The Junction on 4962 1116 or itravel Warners Bay on 4947 1116.

TRAVEL THE WORLD IN A DAY! The World Travel & Cruise Expo will be held from the end of September through to the end of October in eight destinations around the country, including the Newcastle Entertainment Centre on Sunday, September 24, 2017. Brought to Newcastle by the Flight Centre Travel Group, this expo will showcase the best of the world with a strong focus on

world river and ocean cruising. With leading airlines, tour operators, destination experts, travel services and cruise providers, this event will provide expo visitors with a one stop shop to research, compare and book their next holiday – all under the one roof. Presentations from expert tour and cruise providers will be available all day in the theatrettes and tips on how to save on your next booking and what to expect for first-time cruisers will be presented on the main stage. This is the perfect expo to inspire and book your next cruise or international or domestic trip. For more info visit www.nec.net.au

12223a iTravel Perfect Tasmania Ad.indd 1

HELPING HUNDREDS in Vietnam to Hear Audiologist, Katrina Skirka, from the iHear New Lambton clinic, travelled to Vietnam in February, to help treat more than 1,600 locals in desperate need of better hearing health. Katrina was part of a multi-skilled Starkey Hearing Foundation (SHF) team, made up of clinicians and volunteers from the Australia-Pacific region. Vietnamese SHF members welcomed the group, ready to guide the visitors safely throughout the country. For Katrina, her arrival in Vietnam and first stop Hanoi was a huge culture shock compared to life in Australia.

22/8/17 4:10 pm

“I drank the sights in! With pollution masks on their faces, whole families with babies and small children travel on the one motorbike, smartly-dressed women in high heels and skirts on bikes, a florist shop on a bike, a street food shop on a bike, huge cardboard boxes loaded strategically on bikes, the family groceries, tradies with their tools on bikes. There was a faint smell of burning rubber in the air. The only road rule I could figure out was to honk upon approaching,” Katrina laughed. Once at the first mission site, Hanoi’s An Viet Hospital, the team began setting up and training their volunteers. Katrina and a fellow audiologist, Michael, were tasked with screening people with otoscopes as they came in, noting what they saw in a code form by marking patients’ hands with texta. “There is no denial of hearing loss in Vietnam; they simply arrive en masse for help. I found myself mid-foyer with the crowd all at once tapping me on the arm and pointing to their ears. Fearing we would literally drown in the crowd, our mission leader, Megan, promptly stepped in to take control,” Katrina said. “I attended to a 100-year-old frail lady, half my size, suffering massive eardrum perforations. We sat her on the ground floor, as the stairs were impractical for her.” With rivers of sweat trickling down their faces, the team braved the heat that first day to take ear impressions for 337 patients in the tiny Hanoi hospital. “Throughout all of my mission days in Vietnam I was impressed by the calm, brave, trusting, stoic and accepting nature of the Vietnamese,” said Katrina, explaining that for many of these patients, it is the first time they have ever sought medical treatment. “I saw it on the faces of the wide-eyed little children who wandered silently into the clinic room alone to have their impressions taken. Little children of primary school age with no speech. I saw it on the faces of the adults in pain, with no

eardrums. I saw it in the well-behaved, silent wall-to-wall crowds waiting patiently without complaint for often long periods for our services.” It was then on to Danang’s ‘Village of Hope’. While setting up, laughing little children darted about everywhere, and a very elderly frail lady wandered in, a day early, hoping to be seen. “When she opened her mouth there looked to be blood oozing from it, but was told she was just chewing betel nut! This lady received individual prompt service from about 10 of our staff, who were just fascinated by her story!” On the last day of the mission in Ho Chi Minh City, the team saw nearly 600 patients, mostly children, and had literally exhausted their supplies of impression material due to the demand. The remaining few rows of patients calmly accepted they would instead be fitted with stock moulds. “These peaceful people were just grateful to be helped, and it was our absolute privilege and honour to be the people helping them.” Katrina says the whole mission team agreed it was the hardest they had ever worked, with many bodies aching “like never before” at the end of each day. “On mission days your mind goes into another mode, we came to do a job, and we are here to serve these people, so we happily put their needs above our own. The Vietnamese have taught me the importance of kindness, generosity, not sweating the small stuff, and to be grateful for the privileged lives we lead. Our legacy is the lives we touch in this lifetime, and it would be my privilege to return someday to these wonderful people.” Katrina is now looking forward to Phase Two of the Starkey Hearing Foundation mission, where the team will see the same children and adults again, this time to fit them with free hearing aids, allowing them to develop speech and improve their education. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31

Stockton Landcare recently received a grant to purchase native plants for a dune regeneration project at Stockton Beach

2017 Council elections Newcastle local government area Applications for Orica’s Community

Elections will be held in the Newcastle local government area on Saturday 9 September 2017.

Investment Program are

NOW OPEN

Voting is compulsory for all people enrolled in areas where elections are being held. Fines apply for not voting, so it is important you know if you need to vote.

The second round of funding for Orica’s 2017 Community Investment Program is now open with up to $65,000 in grants available to local community groups. The program supports initiatives that seek to promote education and lifelong learning, improve and protect the environment, and build strong communities. Acting General Manager Orica Kooragang Island, Paul Hastie, said Orica is committed to making a lasting and positive contribution to the communities in which it operates. “Over the last 12 months, the Community Investment Program has provided more than $130,000 in funding to 18 community groups. “The diverse range of projects supported

The Newcastle local government area is split into four wards, check Council’s website to find out which ward you are in.

Beresfield

Ward 4

include mental health initiatives, programs to assist refugee families, pet therapy for agedcare residents and improvements to schools and sporting facilities. “I’m delighted that we can lend a helping hand to the many people and organisations in the Newcastle region working hard to support others and strengthen our community.” All applications for funding are evaluated by an assessment panel of three Orica employees and three community representatives. Only organisations that are either from or largely support the Newcastle local government area, along with the suburbs of Fern Bay and Fullerton Cove, will be eligible to apply for grants of up to $10,000. Application forms and supporting documents are available online at www.orica.com with applications for this round of funding closing on 30 September 2017, successful recipients announced in October.

Hexham

Kooragang Island Hunte

Maryland

Fletcher

r Rive

Sandgate Shortland Warabrook

Minmi

Wallsend

Mayfield

Ward 1

Jesmond Lambton

Waratah

Tighes Hill Carrington

Elemore Vale

Ward 3 NewLambton

Islington Hamilton

Wickham Newcastle Broadmeadow Hamilton East

Ward 2

Adamstown Kotara

For enquiries please call 4974 2000. For more information visit: www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au 32 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Stockton

Merewether

Cooks Hill

Hunter Songwriting Competition...

THE TIP JAR Newcastle’s music scene is set to benefit from the launch of a new song writing competition, backed by a group of wellknown Newcastle musicians, as well as the local business community. The Tip Jar competition will promote the city’s community of musicians, and provide new opportunities for talented performers to export their music nationally. The competition builds on the city’s long history of creating world class musicians, and will help to build Newcastle’s reputation as a

rich breeding ground for musical talent. Silverchair’s Chris Joannou is a Tip Jar Ambassador, joining a number of other well-known Newcastle music identities including Grant Walmsley of the Screaming Jets, popular DJ, Jayteehazard, and indiefolk artist, Amy Vee. Chris is a passionate spokesperson for the competition, as it was competitions similar to Tip Jar that gave Silverchair its first big break. “There is so much untapped talent in Newcastle – the city has more working ►

ON TOUR

With the Kid WORDS CHLOE SULLIVAN

When I was a kid, we used to go camping all the time. Loading up the Kombi and headed for the nearest Folk Festival, this was the original inspiration for On Tour with the Kid. When a Facebook invite came through from a friend asking us to go camping with a group of friends for her birthday, we jumped at the offer. With work and other commitments, we could only stay for one night, but you take your relaxation where you can get it. Given our short stay, I decided to pack the bare minimum. We own a wagon where the back seats fold down to make a flat surface. The birthday girl had kindly offered us a blow-up mattress, and given the recent temperature drop, I thought the back of the car as a warmer and less time-consuming option than a tent. As long as we had snacks, warm clothes, blankets and pillows, we couldn't go too wrong. We arrived at the stunning Ferndale Park camping area. Driving through this thickly wooded area on entry, it feels kind of magical, like you are driving into a fairytale forest. As you arrive at the camping area, you realise you are inside this stunning sunken valley. The couple who run the campground came out to greet us, and the wife was baking Anzac slice, so the delicious and distinctive smell of oats and brown sugarfilled the office. She also took my little one for a walk around the open verandah with breathtaking views across the valley to see the most sensational collection of fairy gardens I have ever seen.

As we make our way down the road to the camping area to find the rest of our group, we realised there was an unintended advantage to arriving late, with most of our group having already stayed the previous night. The fire was already in full swing, so the first several hours were just spent catching up with friends and intermittently warming the back of your jeans against the open fire. When camping in winter the timing of

musicians per capita than anywhere else in • A masterclass on getting in front of the right people in the industry and securing the country. Tip Jar will give a voice to the publishing deals. unsigned singer-song writers in the region who deserve to be heard on the Australian The launch of Tip Jar comes at an optimal and international circuit,” says Chris. time, as Newcastle continues its reinvention “Silverchair first started to get noticed as a leading creative and cultural hub. The through competitions such as Triple J’s Newcastle City Council and Newcastle Unearthed and the National Demo Comp Now are both sponsors of the competition, on SBS’s Nomad program. Competitions together with local businesses. that uncover new players on the scene are Edward Duc, Executive Chair of Newcastle therefore close to my heart, and that is why I Now, says the competition aligns with the am getting behind the Tip Jar initiative.” Business Improvement Association’s strategic Tip Jar invites unsigned musicians from direction of driving change and growth in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie to enter Newcastle city centre. unreleased songs, written over the past “As a city, we surely want live music 12 months, either individually or as part here. We want an evening economy that of a collaboration. Entrants will be judged sparks with energy, and we want to see our on the strength of their song writing and composition skills, not on the instrumentation local music-makers on the national and international stage. or production of the recording. A public “It will not only help our venues and and industry vote will select two winners, artists grow patron numbers, but it will also announced at an awards ceremony at The have a positive flow on effect for businesses, Cambridge Hotel on a date to be sheduled generating income from both locals and in November. The winner of each category tourists.” receiving a prize package valued at over To enter the Tip Jar songwriting $10,000, including: competition head to the website for details www.tipjar.org.au - entries close 29 • 10 hours recording time, working with September, and if you don’t write songs, award winning engineers and producers; you can vote in the public division of the • Media appearances and advertising; competition during October. ■ • Marketing collateral and a press pack including photography, video and design, and;

warming your butt is super important. You want it to be long enough that you can sit down long enough to eat and have a drink and stay toasty but not so long that you have heated the metal studs in your jeans and branded your skin like a dairy cow when you finally take a seat. It's a fine line. The ground is so open that all the kids could play freely and not be out of your sight. Though the iPad was in the car, they were all totally content playing with the glow sticks, running on the grass and balancing on a large concrete pipe close by. It's interesting how quickly they will step away from technology. There were about 30 of us in the end so when the BBQ started cranking up, the whole space filled with that mouthwatering smell of cooking meat and a whole Weber BBQ plate full of beer-soaked onions. The after dinner jam session was out of this world. Granted, it was made better by the 12 Golden Guitar winners gathered around the fire. I love to sing, it makes me happy, but I don't sound great, my head is the wrong shape or something, but thankfully my voice was covered by the award-winning vocals. It dawned on me that I had not totally thought through the sleeping situation when I went to make the bed. The mattress didn't quite fit between the wheel wells inside the car. So we ended up sleeping on a 45-degree angle. It was worth it for such a great night. As we woke with sunrise in the morning to the sound of birds and running water from the creek close by, I had the thought that every camper has. How long can I hold off going to the bathroom so I don't have to get out from under the covers? Even if you only have a day, ducking out to this little piece of heaven less than 100km from Newcastle is well worth it. You can camp from $15 or in one of the few great on-site caravans for $60. It's the perfect place to bond with the kids and get back to nature.

ENROLLING NOW Limited Vacancies

Providing high quality care and education for your most precious assets since 1994. Centres located across Newcastle & the Hunter Visit our website to find one nearest you Motor Sensory Program Exclusive to Tillys

www.tillyschildcare.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

Fashion+ Beauty...

White Lemon Cotton top $109.95; White Lemon Cotton pant $129.95 by Anannasa. Available at July Jones Style Studio, Hamilton.

Exotica! WORDS MIA VON ESSEN

In this weather, you can’t be blamed for day dreaming of warmer days, sunny beaches, shady palm trees and maybe a nice, cool margarita. But with this season’s upcoming trend, you won’t feel so far away from that long awaited summer holiday. From the beginning of this month, you will see high-summer fashion pieces that speak to a cultural mixture of textures, vibrant colours and bold patterns. Inspired by the tropical Cuban shores, you can’t deny the Caribbean vibe is making waves this month. Think turquoise waters, powdery sand and the promise of utter luxury – you will be ready to salsa the night away!

Camilla Bahia Bliss Sheer Overlay Dress (above left) $699; Black Drawstring Bucket Bag $499; Call Me Carmen A-Line Frill Dress $649 all by Camilla. Available at Scentsation (The Junction) www.scentsation.net.au Lemon Silk Kaftan by Anannasa. Available at July Jones Style Studio, Hamilton. $179.95

If Exotica sounds like the trend for you, jump on board! Look at pieces with rich colours, focusing on bright reds, yellows, greens and a hint of navy. Wildflower prints are the way to go, so look at silky fabrics that draw the eye. Shapes are floaty over the body, with a big focus on fabric layering and ruching. If you want a more fitted feel, pair pieces with an interesting belt, or printed scarf wrapped around the waist. Don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and prints. It might take a while to find the right balance, but it will pay off. Most importantly, this trend sees a relaxed kind of glamour, with a polished finish – so don’t forget the allimportant accessories to complete your Exotica look!

Call Me Carmen Tiered Dress by Camilla. Available at David Jones, Westfield Kotara (limited quantities) $899.

There's No Place Like Rio Small Canvas Clutch (below) RRP $99; Call Me Carmen Small Canvas Clutch (Bottom) $199 both by Camilla. Available at Scentsation (The Junction) We are Golden Dress (right) by Alice McCall. Available at Lillies at The Junction $420.

Cool Cat A-Line Frill Dress by Camilla. Available at Wilson & Hunter (Hunter Valley Gardens) $649.

Miranda Earle Purses $65 available at The Olive Tree Market (next market Sep 2nd) or www.mirandaearle.com

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BEAUTY GIANT

Touches Down in the Hunter

The expansion of Sephora’s Australian network continues when the global beauty retailer opens the doors of its 10th store at Charlestown Square on September 9th. “We are keeping the Sephora momentum going in 2017 with the opening of our third new store this year. As our sixth NSW store, and 10th store

Nationwide, we couldn’t be more excited to bring another touch-point for our brands and services to even more of our customers in Australia,” said Sephora Country Manager, Libby Amelia. Joining over 2,500 Sephora stores worldwide, the Charlestown location will service a whole new catchment of beauty-lovers from the Newcastle region. As the leading shopping and entertainment destination in the Newcastle/Hunter Valley area, Charlestown Square is home to over 65 stores which are unique to the area – and SEPHORA will be next covetable name on that list. Charlestown Square General Manager Dwight Hodgetts said Sephora’s arrival was a big win for shoppers in the Hunter and confirmed Charlestown’s position as being home to the biggest names in international beauty and fashion. “We were very excited about the news that Sephora is coming to Charlestown Square and we know that the shoppers of the Hunter are going to give them a huge welcome when they open their doors,” said Hodgetts. “Sephora’s most recent Macarthur Square opening drew a crowd of over 1,500 customers by the time the doors opened at 11am. The first people in line left home at midnight to drive two hours to get there, and started the queue at 2am” said Amelia. “As we grow our footprint in the Australian market, it’s so important to us that we continue to invigorate and inspire our customers, bringing them the best brands, services and experiences – and the Charlestown location will really deliver that.”

WHATS ON AT SEPHORA

Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector® Pressed Highlighter Collector’s Edition - $64 Like a spotlight for your skin, Shimmering Skin Perfector® Pressed Highlighter lights up your favourite features with high-impact, ultrareflective shine. What else you need to know This is an exclusive Champagne Pop shade with soft gold and sunny peach undertones. Unlike traditional pressed powders, this formula blends pigments with liquids, to create an unparalleled, creamy feel that applies seamlessly for a silky finish without caking. Kat Von D Tattoo Liner - $28 Available in a satin black and a rich chocolate brown. Achieve eye perfection with this high-pigment, waterproof liner that stays put all day for a fade, melt, crack, and run-resistant finish. The superfine and flexible tip glides across the lashline for fluid application, allowing you to create a variety of looks with ease. Benefits Unlike traditional felt tip liners, this brush tip will not fray. It is cruelty-free; no animal-derived ingredients and not tested on animals. Sephora Collection Head To Toe Hydrator - $18 Face, body, hands, hair: finally, a true multipurpose cream! It can be applied as a cream or as a mask to the face, body, hands, and even to hair tips. It intensely moisturizes and softens

skin, providing it with ultimate comfort. Benefits • Rich, non-greasy texture suitable for all skin types, even sensitive skin. • Features Sephora's exclusive plant-derived active ingredient HydroSenn+™

CHARLESTOWN BEAUTY: INCOMING

OPENS 9 SEPTEMBER www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 35

NIKI LEA WILLIAMS EMPOWERED by Inspirational Creations WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN When Niki Lea Williams lost her lower leg as the result of a serious motor vehicle accident at the age of 19, she knew things would never be the same. But rather than let despair or anger overwhelm her, the Newcastle woman was determined to make the most of the fact she was still alive and forge a new direction for her life. The result was Pegi Lea – a fashion and accessories label that dares to be noticed with its one-of-a-kind flower crowns and Mohawks. “Pegi Lea was born after a life-changing accident in 2002,” Niki said. “I have been a free-spirited and creative soul from a young age. Growing up on the waterfront in Lake Macquarie and being an only child until I was seven-years-old, I was always entertained with and enjoyed art. “At the age of 19, I was involved in a serious motor vehicle accident, which resulted in me becoming a below knee amputee.

“In 2014 I went to my first Melbourne Cup (wearing one of my headpieces) – I still can’t believe the media frenzy (there), my Australian native flower Mohawk is still the original showstopper by far! “I have certainly naturally developed my own signature style for Pegi Lea. It’s really cool to have my pieces recognised at first sight. “I don’t have any rules to how I create my headpieces; it just comes naturally. I rarely sketch, I just take notes and inspiration can come from a colour or shape to a celebrity or a client’s personality. “I get most excited and fulfilled when I see my clients shine Of course this was horrific and a massive away wearing my creations. I love when they are just as excited to wear one of my creations as I am to see them being worn! shock to myself, my family and friends, “My designs are becoming more acceptable to be worn in but somehow I was very resilient and usually conservative places, and this is most exciting. “I think once you wear a Pegi Lea headpiece you are keen to get on with my life. suddenly empowered and adventurous.” The business has certainly helped empower Niki herself in “Don’t get me wrong, I can have my bad moments, but life must go on. I’m lucky to be alive, and I knew I had to take a new her journey to recovery – its name is a cheeky combination of her own name and a reference to her amputated leg, which she direction in life to put everything back together. began referring to as Pegi while she was in the hospital so the “Pegi Lea officially started in late 2002 by hand screen doctors would stop calling it a “stump”. printing individual designs onto singlets. These days the 34-year-old spends time mentoring new “Then over the years, it has branched out into hand-dyed amputees, as well as sharing her story with the occasional gig hair extensions, over the top flower crowns, daring racing as a motivational speaker. fashion, couture bras and costume attire, as well as festival She said she likes to give back whenever she can and and statement headpieces.” would love to expand her speaking engagements to include The signature flower crowns are certainly the label’s most talks at schools. recognisable pieces, such as the colourful feather and flower On the business side of things, Niki is also keen to expand creation that featured on intouch Magazine’s front cover in the Pegi Lea empire, which at the moment is still a side venture April. Niki said the inspiration for this line came out of the blue completed around the demands of a part-time job in hospitality. in 2013 and since then she hasn’t looked back. She said social media platforms such as Instagram, and She fell into the racing fashion scene after being asked being in the right place at the right time, have helped her grow to make a custom headpiece for a friend that would be wild the business to this point however she has grand plans for its but still acceptable to be worn to a racing event, and in 2014 future. she made her first appearance at the Melbourne Cup, where Her work has been showcased at high-profile racing events her Australian native Mohawk design took photographers and nationally such as the Melbourne Cup and the Magic Millions newspapers by storm. race day on the Gold Coast, while last year she also gained Niki said these successful designs and constructions international exposure after being invited to showcase one showed her she had a talent for creating an effective, eyeof her headpieces during the renowned London Hat Week catching and ultimately wearable headpiece. exhibition. “I’m best known for my statement headwear, especially my Later this year that same headpiece, the Golden Wings of outlandish Mohawk designs,” she said. Phoenix, will appear in the Silver Linings Project book created “In mid-2013 I had this crazy idea that flower crowns were by Calin Manuela Darling. The project brings together some of going to go nuts, so I went shopping and bought all these the best designers, milliners, make-up artists and studio flowers and headbands.

“

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owners in Australia to showcase, via photography, the power and inspiration of women who have overcome physical and mental illnesses to “find their silver linings”. Each woman was paired up with a designer to create a birdinspired costume to suit their story, with Niki constructing the golden feathered headpiece and a bejewelled corset for Grace, a child warrior from Sudan. Niki was also photographed and will feature in the book sharing her story of survival and the journey she has taken since then. “It’s liberating to know you can build something out of nothing by yourself,” she said. “One of my dreams is to have my headwear appreciated and accepted in the worldwide racing fashion scene, and I’d love to have pieces commissioned for film clips and movies. “My ultimate goal is to see my designs on celebrities. I’ve love to design headwear for different stars like Lady Gaga, I’m a huge fan, and I’ve actually met her a few times, so that’s my goal. “I’ve had a lot of support along the way, but I never expected I’d end up doing this when my accident happened.”

l oo Sch y a d i l o H ! N U F

50+ super-fun activities for kids (big and small) to enjoy! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37

YOUR DESTINATION FOR FUN

CHARLESTOWN SQUARE WELCOMES HOLEY MOLEY TO THE SOUTH PIAZZA ON FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER. Get ready for the craziest round of mini golf you’ve ever played! And with drinks, cocktails and tunes on offer at the full service bar, The Caddyshack will take care of all your off-the-green needs.

WANT MORE CHOICE?

ENJOY THE SOUTH PIAZZA – OPEN LATE EVERYDAY

...ENJOY ALL THE FUN WITH 5 HOURS FREE PARKING! SHOW YOUR WESTS MEMBERSHIP CARD AT THE CUSTOMER SERVICE DESK. Available when the Customer Service Desk is open. Parking rates apply after 5 hours.

38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Bookings for all activities are essential. To find what’s on Newcastle Region Libraries near you, visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/Library/Whats-On Just because you’re inside doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy elements of the great outdoors, with the chance to create a gorgeous garden mobile Newcastle Museum Everyone loves to experiment, and there’s no better place to or ornament out of recycled aluminium cans. tap into your scientific side than at Newcastle Museum’s free The free one-hour workshop will be held Science Shows, where you will experience explosions, learn across five of the Newcastle Region Libraries more about the workings of all things great and small, and dive from September 26 to 29 and is suitable for into the fascinating world of chemicals. children aged 9 to 14 years. The popular shows are sure to fill up fast, with three Children will also have the chance to Bee sessions every day on September 26 and 28 and October 3 Amazed at Stockton (October 5) and Hamilton and 5. (October 6) libraries. Learn about the amazing But that’s not the only entertainment on offer at the world of bees, sample some honeycomb and museum these holidays, with a special community exhibition create a native bee hotel to take home. Hunter Water turns 125, proving that school isn’t the only place Still on the insect theme, head over to New you can learn something new. Lambton (October 4) and Wallsend (October Hunter Water and Newcastle Museum are giving the public 5) libraries for the Travel Bugs workshop, for a chance to learn more about the creepy crawlies access to fascinating historical photos, memorabilia and tools of a bygone era to showcase how our local water and sewer that live in the garden. If your kids are looking for something with a system has evolved over time. The museum is open every day of the school holidays from little more bite then the Crocodile Encounters at 10am to 5pm, visit www.newcastlemuseum.com.au for more Adamstown (September 28) and Beresfield details. (September 29) libraries will give them something to really sink their teeth into. For just $7 they can get up close with Newcastle Art Gallery a crocodile during this fun and interactive one-hour wildlife experience, which features a range of reptiles and it suitable for You can always rely on the Newcastle Art Gallery to keep things interesting, with a series of workshops and tours sure to children aged five to twelve. educate and inspire children of all ages. There’s plenty on offer for the teenager in the family too, Kick off the holidays with the popular Torchlight Tour of with Upcycled T-shirt Crafternoons on September 27 and the gallery on Saturday, September 23 from 6pm-7.30pm. The October 4, a DIY Flower Crown workshop (September 29, $5) tour costs $10 per child (accompanying adults are free), and and an Animate and Create activity that will teach them how entry includes all art materials and snacks – you just have to to make an awesome stop motion animation on their iPad remember to bring your own torch. (October 6). (continued next page) ►

EZY-BREEZY

Spring School Holiday Guide!

The weather’s warming up and the kids are keen to get out and enjoy themselves, with two whole weeks of school holidays stretching out in front of them. But while it may not quite be beach weather yet, there’s plenty of free and affordable ways to keep them happy these holidays thanks to a great program of activities from Newcastle and Lake Macquarie City Councils.

PLAY

Fo o t G o l f

Sand Dune

Sa a is ALL AGES, ALL ABILITIES Come on the ultimate adventure! Join Sand Dune Safaris in one of our purpose built off road vehicles and experience the magnificent Stockton Sand Dunes - the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere, right here in beautiful Port Stephens. Discover the remote outpost of Tin City and learn about the history of the ecosystem and inhabitants. You also can’t miss Sand Boarding, fun for all the family. Don’t forget your camera, the scenery is spectacular!

School holiday activities: We will be open every day for our Sand Boarding Adventure, between 10am and 4pm. Price includes a 10 minute 4WD trip over the dunes, board hire, instructor and unlimited Sand Boarding. Also fantastic for kids birthday parties! Bring along your esky with food and drinks and relax in our shaded picnic area on the dunes whilst the kids have a ball! DETAILS Open every weekend, 10am - 4pm (extended hours over Summer), weekdays by appointment. Open every day during school holidays. Departure location - Lower car park, end of James Paterson St, Anna Bay. Look for the big army bus! Phone 0425 213 096. www.sanddunesafaris.com.au

Beres ield Golf HOME OF MINI GOLF AND FOOTGOLF With a relaxing 11 hole golf course, the only FootGolf course in the Hunter and a brandnew 18-hole Mini Golf Course, Beresfield Golf Course provides a fabulously fun day out for family and friends with something for everyone! Mini Golf and Footgolf are great fun activities for the holidays – they are active and the whole family can play. They also run school holiday golf clinics, where children will learn the basics of golf, meet friends and get to play some real golf (along with some footgolf and mini golf of course) under the eyes of a qualified coach.

There are great package deals available and with undercover outdoor settings and a BBQ for hire, Beresfield Golf is a fantastic new kids and group party destination for something different and affordable that is conveniently located between Newcastle and Maitland. The September holidays will be the last holidays available at the amazing introductory prices. DETAILS Mini Golf – Open every day from 10am; FootGolf – Open every day from 10am (excepting Saturdays – after noon). Check the Facebook page for golf clinic details. 260 Anderson Dr, Beresfield, phone 4966 4665. www.beresfieldgolf.com.au

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Kids will also have the chance to get creative at the Mad Heads art workshop, which will be run three times a day from September 25-29. The one-hour workshop costs $10 and will see children create pinch pots with modelling clay to make a unique 3D clay character they can take home with them. In the second week of the holidays, the Magic Blue Print art workshop will teach participants about the cyanotype printing process and allow them to create a blue print of silhouette images. It will be held three times a day from October 3 to 6 and cost $10. Bookings are essential for the tour and the workshops. Visit www.nag.org.au for more details. Lake Macquarie Libraries Whether you like craft or computers, reading stories or programming robots, there will be something for every child at Lake Macquarie’s libraries these holidays. Join volunteers from Ocean and Coastal Care Initiatives Lake Macquarie at the handson Sea Creatures of Lake Macquarie workshop at Morisset Library on September 27, or learn more about aerodynamics at the Fold and Fly: Paper Plane Making workshop at Swansea Library on September 26. Cardiff Library will host a Design, Build, Program Robotics workshop on September 27, perfect for children aged eight to 14, while crafty children can learn how to knit and crochet at the Lost Skill of Wool Craft at Toronto Library on October 6.

There will be plenty more activities on offer across the two weeks, so visit www.library. lakemac.com.au/kids/school-holiday-fun for details and to book your place. Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery Children can tap into their more artistic side at the art gallery, with a host of workshops exploring everything from Creative Bookmaking (September 26, October 3), to Re-using Old Books to Make Beautiful Artworks (September 27 and October 4). Both workshops cost $20 per child and run for two hours. Bookings are essential. Visit www.artgallery.lakemac.com.au or contact 4921 0382 or for more details. Charlestown, West Wallsend and Swansea Swim Centres The weather is heating up, so there’s no better time to dive into the Intensive Learn to Swim Program at Lake Macquarie’s three swim centres. Boost your child’s confidence in the water with this intensive five-day program, which has beginner to transition levels available. Suitable for children aged three years and older, the program will run from September 25 to 29 and again from October 2 to 5. Bookings are required for the $55 program by calling Charlestown on 4921 0782, West Wallsend on 4921 0738 or Swansea on 4921 0733. ■

Learn to Surf Newcastle AGES 5 - ADULT Weetbix Surf Groms is back again this September School Holidays! Learn to Surf with Miles Niddrie. All equipment is supplied and every class includes surf safety education. Great kid to coach ratios for ages 5-12 yrs (Surf Groms) and 13-18 yrs (Surfteens) with four x 1.5 hour classes Monday to Thursday both weeks of the holidays. 13yrs-18yrs. Over 18's to adults catered for too with single 1.5 hour lessons daily. www.learntosurfnewcastle.com 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

EMAIL miles@learntosurfnewcastle.com PH 0404 839 585

Jet Flight Simulator AGES 6 AND UP - NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED Have you ever wanted to feel what it is like to captain a 737? Here is your chance to virtually experience the thrill of being in control of the most popular plane in the world and no experience needed. Choose your favourite airport or city to take off from. Just before take-off you will be briefed on the primary controls, instruments and procedures necessary to be ready for take-off. After permission from Air Traffic Control you will accelerate the plane down the runway and take-off. During your flight you will be fully immersed in your experience. You will be managing your airspeed, altitude and watching your heading whilst monitoring any other air traffic. The wide array of screens and indicators will also need to be monitored.

Enter this link to receive 50% off discount! www.jetflightsimulatornewcastle.com.au/intouch

or call 1300-SIM-FLIGHT (1300-746-354) Prices: 30min $79 (was $199) 60min $139 (was $349) 90min $218 (was $479) 120min $249 (was $599)

• 737 simulator experience • Gift vouchers available • No experience needed (kids 6+) • Payment over the phone • Bring up to 4 passengers for FREE DETAILS By appointment only. 1 Tudor St, • 22,000 destinations Newcastle. PH 1300-746-354. • Fly alongside an experienced instructor /JetFlightSimulatorNewcastle • By appointment only • Buy now, book later

Scenic Helicopter Flights WITH SKYLINE AVIATION AGES 3 AND OVER Get the kids out of the house and show them the best experience they’ll have these holidays! With Scenic Helicopter Flights from $95, we can show the kids a view of Newcastle and the Hunter Valley like never before.

Departing directly out of Lake Macquarie Airport and the Hunter Valley, our helicopter joy flights cover everything from stunning beaches to mountain ranges and the city of Newcastle! Don’t leave them in front of the iPad, give them an experience they’ll never forget these holidays! DETAILS 7 Days a week, 8:30am to 5:30pm. Located at 864 Pacific Hwy, Marks Point. www.skylineav.com.au

Hunter Valley

Horseriding & Adventures ALL AGES Get away from city living and go horseriding! It’s the perfect day trip - just 30 minutes up the Hunter Expressway you’ll find a place where you can relax, get back to nature, treat the kids or just stop and smell the roses! Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders. Enjoy a picnic (we have

over 300 acres of great spots), utilise our BBQ facilities, enjoy a tractor hay ride to feed the animals, check out the kangaroos, hiking and mountain bike trails or sunset rides. We offer great guest house and semi self contained villa accommodation, where kids stay free during school holidays! (Villas only). Be quick to book, we have limited spots available. Feel your school holiday stresses slip away! Book the kids in for some outdoor fun. DETAILS Open 7 days, 288 Talga Road, Lovedale. Bookings are recommended, phone Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008. www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

Lake Road Medical Centre

YO U R I N T E G R AT E D H E A LT H S E R V I C E

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41

One Stop Facility for Health & Wellbeing

After hours home visit Doctor service

OPEN EVERY DAY

ALL VISITS ARE BULK BILLED Calls taken for visits 2 hours prior to opening times

Monday to Friday 6pm - 7am Saturday 11am to Monday 7am 24 hours on a public holiday

WORDS KATE AUSTEN - Hunter Valley Care

Have you seen the newest medical centre on the block? In the last few months, commuters and locals may have noticed the refurbishment of the former Prime building, an iconic location which sits on Lake Road in Elermore Vale, just up the hill from Macquarie

CALL 4943 6666 OR 49 DOCTOR

College. It’s not just the outside that’s different: this is the new Lake Road Medical Centre – a new state-of-the-art community medical centre. And what’s inside has to be seen to be believed. Lake Road Medical Centre has been developed to ensure the growing communities, and surrounding areas of Elermore Vale, Rankin Park, Glendale, Cameron Park and beyond have access to high quality and affordable healthcare, now and well into the future. With an opening date of September 4th, community interest has been buzzing with many appointments for services being taken in the lead-up to the launch. As well as general practitioners, Lake Road Medical Centre’s services will include professions such as dentists, physiotherapists, podiatrists, hair dressing, occupational therapy and pathology. The medical centre prides itself on meeting national standards for every profession within the clinic and will ensure that consumer engagement occurs at all levels of health care. Lake Road Medical Centre is the newest addition to the portfolio of Hunter Valley Care, a large family of care-based businesses.

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Providing excellence in aged care for people of the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region for over thirty years, their passion for care and expertise are unparalleled, and with this newest of medical centres, their philosophy continues. Boasting easy parking, comfortable waiting areas for all ages, the very best in modern equipment and highly trained staff, additional services such as a pharmacy, cafe and aged respite are all on the agenda in the near future. "We want Lake Road Medical Centre to be the hub of the community and all the services within the clinic to be part of a family which will incorporate collaborative client care ensuring positive patient outcomes," a spokesman for the clinic said. Making an appointment at the new clinic on Lake Road is as easy as using their online booking system. Alternatively, you can call into 116 Lake Road Elermore Vale, or just make a phone call. Currently, the clinic is open Monday through Friday from 8:30am to 5pm, with plans to expand to seven-days and after-hours trading as soon as possible. Whatever your medical needs, Lake Road Medical Centre staff will try to make each visit as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. Contact them for an appointment on 4047 5390 or visit www.lrmc.com.au

Waste will help reduce the environmental threat to our planet plus save us money in the long term. Here are several ways you can have a Zero Waste lifestyle: 1. Place reusable bags by the front door, so you will remember to take them shopping or ask for a recyclable cardboard box. 2. Do a bin audit. That's a fancy term for looking in your rubbish and recycling bin and seeing what you throw away. Which are the biggest offenders? Which will be the easiest things to switch? Make notes, so you're ready to look for alternatives when you go shopping. 3. Check your grocery receipt and see if there's anything there that you could make rather than buy. For example, you could make your own simple coleslaw, or if you have a blender, you can whip up dips in a couple of minutes, plastic-free. 4. Ask your butcher/deli/fishmonger to wrap meats straight in paper if you don't have your own containers and ask for fresh bread to be placed in paper bags. 5. Buy fresh vegetables not wrapped in plastic, order a box of fruit and veg from a local delivery company or shop at your local farmers market with your uber cool shopping trolley! 6. Refuse single use plastics such as straws, takeaway cups or utensils. Swap plastic straws for reusable stainless-steel straws, take your reusable coffee cup to the café and always have a spare fork in your bag or car. 7. Use beeswax and resin coated cotton or washable cotton sandwich wraps to replace cling film. WORDS SONYA TODD-JONES Dip Health Sciences (Pathology), 8. Switch from liquid soap to bar soap which you can buy Dip Practice Management, Dip RM. Owner & Manager of Mojo without packaging. Health Charlestown. 9. Swap beauty products which contain plastic beads for a face and body brush. It is estimated that the average Australian produces 1.5 10. Start a compost bin which is much easier than you think! tonnes of waste in a year with much of this household waste avoidable – like plastic packaging and food waste. Waste that With a simple compost heap, you can recycle most of your organic household and garden waste and enrich your garden’s is not recycled or reused ends up in landfill. Landfills produce soil at the same time. methane gas caused by decomposing organic waste which Mojo Health recently participated in Plastic Free July contributes to global warming. Any potentially hazardous which aims to raise awareness of the environmental problems material dumped in landfill can also leach through into the caused by single-use disposable plastic and challenges people surrounding soil and nearby surface and ground water. And if this waste isn’t dumped in a bin but left lying around, to do something about it. We now encourage our customers to use our recycled cardboard boxes or purchase reusable it has the potential to enter our waterways. It has been hessian or recycled plastic bags to save single use plastic. predicted that by 2050 there will be more tonnes of plastic in Change is never easy, and it takes time to form new habits. the ocean than tonnes of fish! But reducing plastic is only just So start step by step on your waste free journey and don’t the start. It’s time to go Zero Waste! So what IS Zero Waste? give up! It gets easier the longer you go Zero Waste. Imagine It’s where we reduce what we need, reuse as much as we the impact on our environment if we could all become Zero can, send what you can to be recycled and compost what we Waste? cannot, with the aim to send nothing to landfill. Going Zero

Living in a

PLASTIC FREE WORLD

01549

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QUITE A Stretch WORDS DANIEL SEAMAN - Planet Fitness Lambton

For many people, the idea of stretching seems to be spending a lot of time in the back of your mind gathering dust and not really getting the attention it needs. Don’t worry you’re in the same boat as a large percentage of the people in the gym, but it’s crucial to understand the role of stretching and the many incredible health benefits associated with it. Why it’s Important - Stretching keeps the muscles flexible, strong and healthy. Without it, the muscles will begin to shorten and tighten up. This can cause many issues with the alignment of your body. For example, if a person has tight hamstrings this can cause the pelvis to be pulled into a backwards tilt creating

Proper Execution is Key - Hold a stretch for 30 seconds. Don’t a flat back in replace of the natural curved back, this can turn minor injuries bounce as this can be a major cause of injury. You should feel tension during your stretching, but you shouldn’t feel any pain. such as muscle pulls into more serious back injuries. There are two types of stretching for your session at the gym: Not stretching can also put you at risk of damaging the muscles and joints. 1. Dynamic Stretching - Should be utilised before your main work out and play an integral role in your warm up. Dynamic When tight muscles are used suddenly stretching prepares your muscles to work and increases their for a strenuous activity that stretches them, such as running, they may become core temperature. The advantage of this type of stretching damaged from suddenly being stretched before your workout is that they gently work your muscles up to their full range of motion instead of holding a maximum stretch. beyond their capability. This can result in the muscle tearing or not being strong 2. Static Stretching - Should be utilised after your workout is over. This type of stretching helps to alleviate tight muscles enough to support the surrounding and should be held between 20-90 seconds for each. Static joint/s, leading to joint damage. stretching helps the muscles cool down, and they should be repeated until you feel the tension leaving your muscles. Where to Start - With so many different muscles and muscle groups in the body, Get moving with some basic stretches for your legs: knowing where to begin can be quite RECLINED HAMSTRING STRETCH - Lie on your back. Raise overwhelming. The three big muscle your left leg as high as you can keeping your pelvis flat on the groups you want to focus on are: ground. Hold your lower thigh and slowly pull the leg towards LEGS - This is the biggest muscle group in your body and your head. To stretch your calves as well, try to flex your foot requires the majority of your attention. Tight leg muscles can towards your shin. Hold for 20-30 seconds. Repeat with right have a big impact on your training and in your general day to leg. day activity. Whether it’s your quads or hamstrings, we have no BASIC QUAD STRETCH - Stand on right leg with your knees choice but to use our legs daily when we walk, run, stand even touching (if you need help balancing hold onto a chair or wall). sitting on the toilet involves our leg muscles. Grab your left foot with your left hand and pull toward your butt BACK - The back is the second largest cluster of muscles. keeping your chest upright. Repeat on the right side. Unlike the legs which are made of 2 large muscles, the back consists of several smaller muscles and a larger muscle. This Stretching increases the blood flow to the muscle, decreases can make it a little harder to stretch, but it also is a source of the risk of injury, improves performance and enables your stress and pain if tight. muscles to work more efficiently. Start to enjoy the ritual of CHEST - The chest still needs some attention despite being stretching and work it into your daily routine, so it’s not pushed smaller than both legs and back. A tight chest can lead your to the back of your mind! shoulders to roll over and your back start to hunch over.

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Changing the way the world ages 44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

YOUR Better Health Update

Watch that Sugar!

WORDS SMITH ST MEDICAL

You hear all that time that obesity is the cause of the diabetes epidemic. It’s certainly true that Australians have put on weight, so the numbers with type 2 diabetes – diabetes that used to be called adult onset – have exploded. What’s more troubling is that the age at which people develop type 2 diabetes has become younger and younger, which means there is more time to develop serious complications like blindness, kidney failure, and loss of limbs.

Mind-body Treatment for Chronic Low Back Pain Low back pain is a common and, at times, a debilitating condition which is thought to affect between 70 and 90% of people at some point in their lives. Chronic low back pain is a common cause of disability and can lead to functional impairment, depression and anxiety. There are a variety of treatment options for low back pain, however, no one strategy works for everyone. Treatments include pharmacological options and mind-body treatments like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Access to and cost of these interventions can also limit people’s engagement with them. Another treatment suggested to improve symptoms associated with chronic low back pain is mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR). This technique focuses on increasing awareness and acceptance of experiences like physical discomfort and emotional difficulties. Researchers assessed the effectiveness of MBSR compared to CBT and usual care. Participants were assigned to receive either MBSR, CBT or usual care. The usual care group received their typical medical care and $50 and were advised that they could seek other

treatments if they wanted to. MBSR and CBT both involved two hours of therapy per week for eight weeks. MBSR also offered a six-hour retreat to participants. MBSR treatment included educational content and mindfulness activities like body scans, yoga and meditation, and CBT involved education including information on chronic pain, sleep hygiene, relapse prevention and practice in behavioural change and pain-coping strategies. The results showed a benefit from MBSR and CBT compared to usual care. Improvements were observed in functional limitation, pain and mental health outcomes. The benefits associated with MBSR and CBT for back pain persisted at 26 and 52 weeks. The results of this study suggest that both MBSR and CBT are effective methods of treating lower back pain when compared to usual care. Mind-body treatments can have the benefit of providing people with long-term skills for managing their pain thus perhaps increasing the likelihood for longer-term results. Talk to your doctor for advice if you experience low back pain.

But it may be that in some of these people, what came first was actually a problem dealing with sugar and that’s what has caused their obesity. Fascinating research from the UK has tracked the development of type 2 diabetes in people known to be at risk. Before they became obese, they showed signs of insulin resistance. Insulin is the hormone that takes sugar (glucose) from the bloodstream and moves it inside cells to be used as energy or stored for later. The underlying problem in type 2 diabetes is that the person’s tissues don’t respond to insulin as well, which means that glucose levels go up and insulin levels rise as well, to try to compensate. Insulin is also a chemical messenger in the brain which stimulates us to eat more. So the track to diabetes may be a bad high sugar diet, insulin resistance, high insulin levels, weight gain, and then diabetes. If this is true, then it’s yet another reason to avoid sugary foods and drinks.

Dr Gary Avery is a specialist Plastic Surgeon who performs cosmetic body and facial procedures including: • Breast Augmentation • Breast Reduction • Breast Reconstruction • Abdominoplasty • Rhinoplasty Avery Plastic Surgery Suite 1, Ground Floor 31-33 Watt Street Newcastle NSW 2300

CALL. (02) 4002 4150 info@averyplasticsurgery.com.au

www.averyplasticsurgery.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 45

IS PLASTIC SURGERY ALL NIPS AND TUCKS? WORDS DR GARY AVERY - FRACS (Plast Surg) Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, Avery Plastic Surgery.

Plastic surgery has become popularised in recent times with TV shows such as Extreme Makeover and Dr 90210, and articles about who’s had what done in Hollywood. However, this idea of plastic surgery is a long way from its reconstructive and humanitarian origins. The first record of plastic surgical procedures was in India around 600BC, with nasal reconstructions following nasal amputation, which was a common form of punishment at the time. We have Italian duelling injuries and the Napoleonic Wars to thank for the rise of the ‘flap’ procedure where we take tissue from one part of the body to repair a wound that would otherwise not heal. Then the unprecedented number of facial injuries and burns during WWI and WWII gave rise to a plethora of reconstructive innovations within the speciality and a critical mass of well trained and experienced surgeons who would continue to make technological advancements and set up training centres and treatment clinics around the world. Operating for more aesthetic or cosmetic reasons only emerged after the World Wars. With increasing demand for the kind of procedures, you might now commonly associate with plastic surgery, including breast augmentation, breast reduction, rhinoplasty, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and blepharoplasty (eye lids). Today, plastic surgery in ‘real life’ is still primarily reconstructive (e.g., flap procedures following trauma and skin cancer removal, tendon and nerve

repair in hands, cleft palate and craniofacial (skull) repairs in children, and breast reconstruction following cancer treatment), in partnership with aesthetic procedures. History makes it clear that Plastic Surgery grew out of a series of restorative problems that required creative and innovative surgical procedures to correct. So, why aren’t Plastic Surgeons known as Reconstructive Surgeons then? What’s the ‘Plastic’ bit about? The term ‘Plastic Surgeon’ has been popularised by the kind of tabloid TV shows I mentioned earlier, and many people believe that the ‘plastic’ part of plastic surgery refers to a ‘fake’ or ‘superficial’ view of aesthetically focused surgery. However, the word plastic is actually derived from the Greek word ‘plastikos’, which means to shape or mould. The ability to operate with this aesthetic in mind is a skill developed through intensive training and years of on the job experience with difficult reconstructive procedures. In fact, all Plastic Surgeons finish their surgical training and graduate with the title of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. It’s more of a mouthful but better reflects the marriage of both aspects of the speciality: to restore form and function (reconstruction) and enhance appearance (aesthetics). If you have any questions about Plastic Surgery you would like me to answer in this column, email Avery Plastic Surgery at info@averyplasticsurgery.com.au. Avery Plastic Surgery is located at 31-33 Watt Street, Newcastle 2300. For more information visit www.averyplasticsurgery.com.au or call the team on 4002 4150.

Dr Avery has operated as a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon in the Hunter region for over five years, treating over 5000 people with reconstructive or aesthetic procedures.

FOR ALL APPOINTMENTS PH 4943 3066 5/154 Park Ave, Kotara (Near NRMA Service Centre) www.searlestmedical.com.au

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Services we offer

Monday 8am to 6pm Tuesday 8am to 6pm Wednesday 8am to 6pm Thursday 8am to 6pm Friday 8am to 6pm Saturday 8am to 12.30pm

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Smith Street Medical Centre and Searle Street Medical Centre BULK BILLS Pensioners and Health Care Card holders. 28 Smith St, Charlestown www.smithstmedical.com.au 46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

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Providing quality healthcare to the community since 1955.

Our Medical Professionals Dr Andrew Keyworth Dr Catherine Eve Dr Adrian Watts Dr Rodney Watson Dr Benjamin Nicholas Dr Paul Saunders Dr Rachel Giblin Dr Lucy Stuart Dr Debra Scott Dr Margaret Lynch Dr Jamie Tran Dr Erica Gomes Dr Jennifer Whiteley Dr Julian Jackel Dr Dean Miller Dr Upasana Thakorlal Dr Alaric Giles (Locum) Dr Karyn Forbes Dr Tristan Yolland

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 47

Inner City Winemakers At Inner City Winemakers we like to make our wine labels as original and unique as the wines themselves. To help with this we regularly ask local artists to come up with artworks and designs to match our wines. Our daughter Lucy, who also happens to be an artist has designed our 2015 Riesling and our 2016 Tempranillo labels.

The Ultimate New Gadget for WineLovers

Both wines are available for tasting and sales at our cellar door. ADDRESS 28 Church Street, Wickham OPEN Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm PH (02) 4962 3545 W www.innercitywinemakers.com.au

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD

Winery - 2017 James Halliday Australian Wine Companion

The Lady i

Forget the usual quirky bottle openers or wine coolers, the new US-designed cutting-edge wine system which lets you easily sample, pour and enjoy any wine – without committing to the entire bottle. In addition to the existing cork technology, the new Coravin Screw Cap technology, designed especially with the Australian market in mind, protects almost any wine from oxidation using Coravin’s proprietary patented technology. From sampling wines in the cellar to enjoying a treasured aged wine by the glass, Coravin eliminates the issue of saving special bottles for occasion drinking only and allows users to taste and share a range of wines with friends and family with ease whether at a barbeque or a wine appreciation gala. Once accessed with Coravin, wine can continue to be stored and preserved as if it was never open.

POKOLBIN ESTATE WINS GOLD! n Pin k . . .

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese | Nebbiolo Rosé Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

Pokolbin Estate Vineyard | 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin Open 7 Days 9am - 5pm | PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au

The best wine to drink in Australia right now, according to the judges of the 2017 Sydney Royal Wine Show, is Riesling. While the Hunter may not be recognised for producing Rieslings, Pokolbin Estate on McDonalds Road in Pokolbin has been described as "The rogue Riesling producer of the Hunter" - turning out fantastic Rieslings

SWANSEA - 69 Lakeside Drive, Ph 4971 4762 • OPEN Tues - Fri 8.30am to 4pm + Sat 8.30am to 1pm

With its user-friendly design, Coravin promises wine lovers industry-leading preservation thanks to proven technology – all housed in a lightweight, durable body with ergonomic, soft-touch handles – ensuring it’s simple and comfortable to operate. A hit overseas with drinkers who enjoy exploring different regions and varieties of wine, Coravin gives you the freedom to drink what you want, when you want it, without compromising on taste or producing waste. Available in three different design models, the Coravin wine accessing system caters to different tastes and budgets and is available from Dan Murphy’s. RRP starting from $339.

year after year from their 55 year old vines. Their 2011 Riesling won Riesling of the Year at the 2011 Winestate Awards and the 2007 Riesling recently won a Gold medal at the KPMG Sydney Royal Wine Show where Riesling was a standout star of the show. Described as a beautifully balanced aged Riesling, the 2007 displays colours of light gold hues with a hint of green and a soft palate acidity with a mouth-filling complexity. Wonderful with fresh oysters, fettuccini carbonara and pan-fried scallops.

For all your Australian, sustainably caught, fresh local seafood needs, you wouldn't go anywhere else, other than the Fishermen’s Co-Op!

WICKHAM - 97 Hannell Street, Ph 4965 4229 • OPEN Mon - Fri 8.30am to 5pm, Sat 8.30am to 3pm, Sun 10am to 2pm • www.fishcoop.com.au 48 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

NOW TASTING017 Rosé 2

Hunter

tage of 20th Vin e! this Win

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 28th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quan��es of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades. With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, For�fied and Dessert styles on tas�ng, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter. • All wines are made in our onsite winery • Winery tas�ngs available for larger groups – bookings essen�al! • Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door • Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome • On most occasions you will be looked a�er by one of the Mistletoe Family

QUALITY WITHOUT COMPROMISE With three genera�ons now ac�vely engaged in the day to day opera�on of Mistletoe, it is truly a unique family winery.

When visi�ng Mistletoe be sure to take �me to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door. Mistletoe is now just 35 minutes from Newcastle – take the Hunter Expressway M15 which becomes the A15 (New England Highway) at Branxton and then take the Hermitage Road exit.

Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320

PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com.au | W www.mistletoewines.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 49

The Hunter Valley's

Premier Tea House Welcome to the Sabor Tea Room, the Hunter Valley's premier Tea House where you will experience the ultimate High Tea.

Located in Lovedale, just off the Hunter Expressway you'll discover our purpose built Tea House – the pinnacle of High Tea. From the Egyptian lead crystal chandelier hanging above your head and crisp white table linen to the antique Royal Albert Teapots and Tea sets that are almost 100 years old, we have spared no expense when it comes to making your High Tea experience an unforgettable one. From the moment you arrive, you will be spoiled. You'll be served a glass of bubbles on arrival, and dessert wine served with your sweet treats, not to mention an unlimited supply of our selection of teas and freshly ground barista made coffee. From the house made mini butter croissants to the handcrafted mixed-berry chocolate teapot surprise dessert and every bite in between, our menu is a guaranteed sensory overload! Check out the full menu and book at www.sabortearoom.com.au.

319 WILDERNESS ROAD, LOVEDALE PH 1300 958 850

OPEN Saturdays & Sundays with two sessions a day (BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL): Session 1 10:30am concluding at 1pm Session 2 2:30pm concluding at 5pm. 50 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company EST. 1999

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 17 years. Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!

Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin: Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, Broke Road

www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au

Love Wine & Food? Then Experience Hunter Valley Wine Country If you could package up the best from the all major wine-growing regions of the world and put it in one place – it would be the Hunter Valley, and it’s right on your doorstep. It’s Australia’s premier wine region, where the pleasures of eating and drinking are celebrated daily. When you think of Australian wine, you think of the Hunter Valley. This exquisite region has been built on 185 years of passion and dedication to the craft, resulting in the production of many world-class wines. Where there is great wine, great food usually follows, and the Hunter Valley is no exception. Celebrated as Australia’s oldest and most visited wine region, the Hunter Valley is considered the country’s leading food and wine destination and home to some of Australia’s most outstanding wines, winemakers, restaurants and chefs. You will be spoilt for choice with the Hunters vibrant

ISSUE 13 OUT NOW! Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant Australia’s only Asian restaurant in a winery! Located at Roche Estate, in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Oishii has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Whether dining inside the minimalist Asian themed dining hall or on the outside undercover terrace overlooking the vines encircling the architecturally designed amphitheatre, Oishii has become a “must dining experience.” Oishii’s Asian chefs have composed an extensive menu of lightly prepared fragrant dishes showcasing regional produce. In true Asian style dishes are perfect for sharing and ideal for families and friends. The fast take away options are also delicious.

J A PA N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E

The Hunter’s Favourite Comprehensive Guide to CELLAR DOORS RESTAURANTS LOCAL PRODUCE • WINES TRAIL MAPS RESTAURANT REVIEWS WEDDINGS & FUNCTIONS

gourmet food culture and exceptional wineries. They take their beer seriously too, with four local breweries making small batches of pure traditionally fermented craft beers. The Hunter Valley is Newcastle’s own wine region, and it is just 35 minutes away. So stay a while and go wine tasting, choose from a diversity of restaurants and cafes spread throughout the region, attend a wine tasting or cooking class, book a wine tour or self-drive using Wine & Dine Hunter Valley – the most complete guide to all the best wine and food experiences in the Hunter Valley. The latest issue is out now at all cellar doors, visitor information centres, cafes, tourist attractions, hotels and major accommodation providers. To read it online visit www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or pick a copy when you’re next in the Valley.

Wine & Dine goes way beyond merely eating and drinking, it’s the ultimate authority on the best of what’s new in wine, food, travel and entertaining in the Hunter Valley. Take a trip between the covers and you’ll find a stylish new layout, crisp, colourful images, artfully written articles, easy to follow wine and food trail maps and delicious dining reviews. Wine & Dine is written by locals to give you all the insider knowledge you need to make the most of your stay in Wine Country. Wine & Dine has a well-established, dedicated readership and is known as Hunter Valley Wine Countries Wine & Food “Bible.” Pick up your copy today, read the digital guide at www.huntervalleyonline.com.au or use the QR code to read it on your mobile device right now!

ADDRESS Roche Estate Complex, Corner of Broke and Mcdonald Rd’s, Pokolbin RESTAURANT 7 Days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7051 W www.oishii.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 51

MONTE DWYER

Entwined in the Matrix of Evidence WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN When Monte Dwyer rocked up to the isolated Far North Queensland farm of Stephen Struber and his wife Dianne Wilson-Struber, he was just hoping they wouldn’t run him off their property. He never imagined his interview footage would end up as part of a murder trial. The Lake Macquarie author and former TV weatherman had been travelling around the outback in 2012 researching a book on the “grey nomad phenomenon” when he heard the story of a couple of graziers who were renowned for their tense and sometimes violent altercations with all who dared cross “their land”. Despite their reputation for shooting at unwelcome visitors, Dwyer decided to pay a visit to Palmerville Station to uncover the Strubers’ side of the story. When he left a day later with his footage – and Stephen’s denials of his reputation for terrorising those on his land – Dwyer thought that was the last he would hear of the Strubers. It wasn’t until a few months later when he returned to Far North Queensland to attend a writer’s festival that he learnt there was far more to the tale of Palmerville Station and its inhabitants, who were being investigated for the alleged murder of gold prospector Bruce Schuler. “I was researching the previous Red in the Centre book, which is my non-fiction range, and that book was called 52 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Nomads at Large about the whole infiltration of grey nomads all around the country, 60,000-80,000 nomads wandering around, changing the countryside,” Dwyer said. “While I was in North Queensland I heard about this couple of graziers who had a reputation for not liking people going through their property, be they prospectors, Telecom workers or indeed grey nomads, they just didn’t like it. “It’s not uncommon out there in the bush, sometimes farmers get a bit proprietary, but this particular pair had a reputation for shooting at people, pulling people up at gunpoint, physical violence, tyre staking, that sort of thing. “So I thought bugger it, I’ll go in and talk to them. I just wandered in and turned up on their doorstep; I didn’t ring in advance because they’d have said no so I just turned up and said ‘Look I’ve heard everybody else’s side of the story, I’m here to give you a chance to give your side of the story’. “They took the bait, and I had an interview with Stephen Struber and talked to him about why he was so cranky with people going through. “I thought he had certain complaints that were valid… but I pushed him pretty hard on why he had this reputation for bailing people up and of course he denied everything. “I got the interview and went on my way. Then shortly after that it turned out that he and his wife murdered a bloke called Bruce Schuler who was a prospector, they found him on his property, and they murdered him. “I heard about it when I came back to North Queensland two or three months later, and somebody said ‘Did you interview Stephen Struber?’ and I said ‘I did’. I asked why and he said ‘He shot my mate’.

“I gave my footage to the cops, which they used as sort of background. There wasn’t much in there that could have been incriminating, but it did give them an idea of what (the Strubers) were thinking and how they were working this sort of stuff out.” Understandably Dwyer became interested in the ensuing murder trial, following it through from their initial conviction and sentence of life imprisonment, all the way to the Strubers’ final, unsuccessful appeal to the High Court. It was a watershed case for the Queensland judicial system that eventually led to the introduction of ‘no body, no parole’ legislation because Schuler’s body has never been found. Dwyer said he was “fascinated” by both the legal nature of the story as well as what it suggested about the darker side of isolation in rural Australia, with his own unique position of being involved “before the fact” prompting him to chronicle the events in a new book: Struberville: Consequences of Isolation. “I followed it all the way through and got to know the players pretty well and because I was in the mix in an insignificant way my interview was part of the matrix of evidence - the police were very good about telling me stuff and I could get access to material that wasn’t always easy to get hold of,” he said. “As a consequence, I was able to tell this story from before the fact, which I think is really quite interesting that a journalist gets to interview a would-be murderer before they do it. “In many ways, it is a watershed case in Queensland’s judicial system. Legally it’s quite fascinating, as well as the isolation thing, which is really quite bizarre. “(When) the checks and balances of society aren’t brought to bear on them, people go a little bit stir crazy. They start making up their own laws, and each time they get away with something it would embolden them further, so they just kept getting bolder and bolder. “As someone who’s been mainly used to fairly whimsical, tongue-in-cheek, have a bit of fun with it (stories), it was a really disciplined write. I had to be very clear, and I had to be very fair to both sides. “There were several times in the process I thought do I really want to do this story, but in the end, I thought look, no-one else could tell this story the way I can because I started on the inside, so I really owe it to the people who want the story told. “That’s been one of the great, really satisfying things about this book; really it has pleased both sides. I haven’t heard a lot from the Wilson-Struber’s side, but some of the family have recognised that it’s a very fair account. “But certainly the Schuler family were grateful that someone was prepared to tell a clean version of the story, unobstructed by editorialisation and passing judgement. “It’s important to me to tell stories seldom told because as we go on we’re losing these stories and mainstream media tends not to go bush. “I can be out there in the bush and uncover the stories myself that nobody else has heard of really, and in this instance, I got embroiled in it.” To find out more about Dwyer’s range of books and DVDs, including Struberville: Consequences of Isolation, visit www.monte.com.au

NEWCASTLE CITY HALL

F O R T S C R ATC H L E Y

NEWCASTLE MUSEUM

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NEWCASTLE N E W C A S T L E CHeritage I T Y H AGrandeur LL

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NEWCASTLE

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Industrial Chic

MUSEUM

NEWCASTLE

Something old, something new…

Newcastle Venues offers Industrial Chiccouples a collection of the city’s heritage buildings - distinctive spaces with personality tradition M U Sand EU M - along with modern amenities and fresh, local catering.

Something old, something new…

Our iconic venues - Newcastle City Hall, Fort Scratchley and Newcastle Museum - offer unique settings that can be re-imagined for contemporary weddings from the intimate to the elaborate. Newcastle Venues offers couples a collection of the city’s heritage buildings - distinctive spaces with personality and tradition - along with modern amenities and fresh, local catering.

newcastlevenues.com.au

Each venue provides its own features, from sweeping coastal views to soaring arches and rustic brickwork, ready to be transformed into your own bespoke experience. Let us work with you to create the perfect setting that you envision for your special day. Phone (02) 4974 2166 Email newcastlevenues@ncc.nsw.gov.au Each venue provides its own features, from sweeping coastal views to soaring arches and rustic brickwork, ready to be transformed into your own bespoke experience. Let us work with you to create the perfect setting that you envision for your special day.

Our iconic venues - Newcastle City Hall, Fort Phone (02) 4974 2166 Scratchley and Newcastle Museum - offer unique newvenues newcastlevenues Email newcastlevenues@ncc.nsw.gov.au settings that can be re-imagined for contemporary weddings from the intimate to the elaborate.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 53

EMPIRE ARTISTRIES

TIPS for a Flawless Look

Bridal hair and makeup styles are like any other hair and makeup in that they move in trends and cycles. Only a few short years ago we were seeing the Smokey eye and nude lip look on the clear majority of brides accompanied by the low curly and to the side hairstyle. This was quickly surpassed by the Vintage Glamour look, where we saw luscious red lips, winged liquid eyeliner and false eyelashes to compliment the structured s-bend hair waves of our past Hollywood icons.

Be the Best Possible Version of Yourself! Empire Artistries are the bridal hair and makeup experts, having been national finalists in the prestigious Australian Bridal Industry Awards for the past four years running, and have just been nominated again for the 2017 ABIA award.

We have now entered the skin era, where makeup is of course, still flawless but the illusion is that of an inner glow. Perfectly sculpted cheekbones, giving off a natural radiance. Soft eyeshadow colours cleverly creating long almond shaped eyes. Long individual false lashes have taken over from the full strip lash to offer delicate and flirty eyes. Nobody can deny that eyebrows are in right now, so plenty of time is being taken to shape and define the brows with patience and precision, which when done well, frames the eye without taking over. Lips are having their cake and eating it too with a great number of brides opting for a soft pink or peach tone for the ceremony and formal photographs then changing it up to a bold colour as they return as the newly crowned Mrs to dance the night away with her awaiting reception guests. This is a wonderful way to be able to make a grand entrance twice on your special day. Hair is taking on an effortless, romantic feel which beautifully compliments the outdoors wedding with backdrops of vineyards and tropical beaches. Brides are loving the low, tousled buns at the base of the neck with unstructured volume throughout. We are seeing a shift from the intricate over sprayed up-styles to the elegance of simple, windswept looks.

Empire Artistries were also the official hair and makeup team for bridal magazine Hunter Valley Wedding Planner, as well as the official hair and makeup team at Love in the Vines wedding festival. The team will also be creating the hair and makeup looks for this years’ LOVE The Wedding Festival at Hope Estate in the Hunter Valley. Empire Artistries team members are also heavily involved with Newcastle’s latest fashion look-book Facon and take pride in being on the NBN television

EMPIREARTISTRIES HAIR & MAKEUP

Image courtesy of Hunter Valley Wedding Planner

The Bridal Hair and Makeup Experts Newcastle•Port Stephens•Hunter Valley

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Psychology for Growth

Building a mindset for wellbeing and performance

BRAIN-WISE

How the brain makes decisions The brain uses two systems to process information. System 1 is automatic, instinctive and fast. It is felt in the body as a “gut instinct”. This gut feeling relies on mental shortcuts (called heuristics) that generate intuitive answers, often based on past experiences. System 1 works well in emergency or routine situations involving WORDS ANNE WARD – MINDINSIGHT simple cause and effect, or known problems. Our brain is a complex network of neural However, in more complex, ambiguous situations connections that make millions of decisions the mental shortcuts can create biases or blind every day. If organisations had the connectivity spots that can result in poor decisions. and agility of the brain, the pace of business System 2 is reflective, logical, deliberate and would be even faster than it is today. As human therefore slower. This helps to gain a strategic beings, we consider ourselves to be rational perspective on problems that involve ambiguity thinkers, able to make rational, informed and require judgement. System 2 thinking decisions. Yet, even with our capacity for rational requires cognitive effort, involving more energy thinking, individuals make errors in judgement. and processing time. Stress tends to induce Although businesses operate on the assumption more System 1 thinking because the focus is to of rational thinking, mistakes are made, often at create stability and control. The danger is that a significant cost. “quick-fix” substitutes as a solution, proving later For a long time, organisations have used to be “dumb”. ►

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tools like strategic planning to improve decisionmaking. However, the implementation timeframe has become shorter and shorter, to the point where strategic plans are now often out of date before they have been signed off. The wind has changed. In today’s hyper-competitive environment, where anyone can be a market player, agility has become a fundamental requirement to stay on course and in business. Agility ramps up the speed of decision-making. So how can managers be agile in their thinking, without compromising judgement and risking quantity over quality?

IS IT ME YOU’RE LOOKING FOR? NOW IN NEWCASTLE! Hello Real Estate is changing the way Novocastrians sell their properties by offering fixed fee prices with no commission and no hidden charges! All you require to professionally sell your home is included. You will have a licensed real estate professional on hand to guide you through every step of your sale and you will also receive a professional valuation and photographer and can even include a pre-sale building and pest inspection, home stylist and live auction. We'll create your digital advertising, provide a premium signage board for outside your home, print all your brochures – we'll even handle your conveyancing for you! All for one low, flat-fee. In 2016 Hello customers saved an average of $20,000 on the sale of their property. What could you do with an extra $20,000 in your pocket?

For a free appraisal contact Lily on 0457 876 343 | hello.com.au 56 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

People vary in their propensity for System 1 or System 2 thinking. Some people rely much more on gut instinct, preferring to get problems out of the way. Others like to deliberate. In today’s fast-paced environment, taking time for System 1 thinking can seem like wasting time, or getting too bogged down in detail. The question is, how can managers get the best out of both systems? The answer lies in the ability to integrate System 1 and System 2 thinking, getting a better balance between speed and quality. Interestingly, the brain will feel much calmer and therefore able to handle a lot more information. This is the key to optimal functioning and better use of energy – at an individual and team level. Higher brain integration means being able to bring strategy and action closer together. Being able to do this effectively is at the heart of leadership. Getting smarter through integration The key is to be able to harness the energy and awareness that comes with Systems 1 thinking but to direct it thoughtfully to solving problems and making decisions, using System 2. The result is a better integrated and informed brain. Being comfortable with feedback and diversity increases integration and builds collective intelligence in teams. Our brains have an incredible capacity for change. With effort and practice, there are ways to improve the quality of our thinking and therefore, our decision-making. This builds new experiences that replace old patterns of behaviour. It starts with self-awareness and a willingness to try different ways of responding to situations. Motivation to change is often determined by what we value. Automation is increasingly replacing routine aspects of work in operations and management roles. Meaningful, rewarding work will increasingly depend on jobs that require smart, non-routine thinking, involving creativity and judgement. A 2015 study by Accenture on the impact of Artificial Intelligence on the work of managers, identified people development and collaboration skills as more important than strategy development and technology. Collaboration is a resource because it uses information diversity to build team intelligence. This is a window into the future of management. ■ Anne Ward is an executive coach and principal psychologist of Mindinsight, providing evidence-based coaching and psychology services to individuals and organisations. Mindinsight is located in the T&G Building at 45 Hunter Street Newcastle. For more information visit www.mindinsight.com.au or email info@mindinsight.com.au

Alana Kelly (left) and Karen Chu (right)

Creating a Great

FIRST IMPRESSION WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN Real estate may be all about location, but the key to achieving a fast and effective sale could well be presentation. With the proliferation of reality television shows in recent years such as Selling Houses Australia, you’d be hard pressed not to realise first impressions really do count when it comes to putting your house on the market. Of course, this is hardly a new concept – Newcastle business partners Alana Kelly and Karen Chu have been transforming poorly presented Hunter homes into marketready masterpieces for the past 16 years. While the stylishly successful duo may have come from quite diverse backgrounds, their shared passion for interior design - and the sale of Alana’s own house – helped them identify a niche in the Newcastle market they felt they could fill through the creation of their own business, Style Fairies, in 2001. “Friends and family always commented on how beautifully our homes were presented and when I put my home up for sale my real estate agent said ‘You should be doing this for a living’, and Style Fairies was born,” Alana said.

“I have a background in shipping and Karen’s was in restaurants, but both of us always had a passion for interior decorating. “Styling is essential for the best possible presentation of a home. Empty houses do not photograph well, a fabulous photo and video will entice prospective buyers to make an inspection. “Having been in the industry for 16 years, we have definitely noticed an upward trend for styling since programs such as Selling Houses Australia, and The Block have aired. People are now aware of what a difference styling makes to the sale price achieved and swiftness of sale.” While anyone can try their hand at styling their property for sale, Alana said it often saved a lot of time and money to bring in a professional, especially for those who are not overly confident in their own capabilities. “We make an initial inspection at which we ascertain how much furniture is needed,” she said. “The scale, size and colour scheme required is considered. We explain the process to the owner and then forward a quote. Once this is accepted the styling begins. “House styling usually includes the front landing or entry way and hallway, kitchen, living room and each bedroom. You may optionally request that we style an outdoor area or patio and feature rooms such as formal dining and rumpus or games rooms. “Most important things to remember when styling your home is to call in the professionals if you don’t have the flair yourself, this will save you time and money. The initial investment will be a lot less than continued price drops due to lack of a sale.” Alana and Karen have styled plenty of homes in the Hunter over the years and said one of the most common mistakes is people going crazy with colour. “The biggest selling faux pas is too much colour on walls. Always stick to a neutral palette especially if renovating to sell. Colour can be added with soft furnishings and accessories.” Alana said every day presented a new challenge, but the biggest reward they get from their job is the satisfaction of seeing a big, red SOLD sticker on the For Sale sign, especially when the house has been languishing on the market for some time. “We are often asked to style homes that have sat on the market for quite a while, and it is always a great feeling when they sell immediately after styling. After 16 years we still find our industry exciting and fulfilling.”

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stylefairies www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 57

Hello DISRUPTION! WORDS LILY TOENGI-ANDREWS Hello Real Estate

Hello Real Estate is what is called a real estate disruptor. Harvard Business School professor and disruption guru Clayton Christensen says that disruption displaces an existing market, industry or technology and produces something new and more efficient and worthwhile (think Uber). He also says that all disruptors are innovators, but not all innovators are disruptors. Is Newcastle ready for the innovation? According to Antoine van Agtmael and Fred Bakker, both innovation experts, who wrote the book The Smartest Places on Earth: Why Rustbelts Are the Emerging Hotspots of Global Innovation - it is. They discussed how they considered Newcastle to be part of the trend of post-industrial cities as emerging sources of innovation and economic strength at their public lecture at the University Museum in February. Today, all types of companies are finding new innovative ways to do business, and this is where disruptors are changing the landscape of existing markets. Everyone has heard of Uber, Airbnb, Aldi, Amazon and Netflix by now so you already know what a disruptor is. Uber created a simplified and cheaper system than taxis, where all you need to do is press a button on an app, payment is made, the driver is sent to you, get in and get out. The difference is the techsavvy app that has modernised the process, and along with making it cheaper, Uber found a new niche in the market and success. Airbnb similarly found a gap in the market and has owners renting out their properties to short-term renters for lower prices than hotels, so both owners and renters win. Airbnb has an easy to use online platform that is worth over $10 billion dollars and is a major disruptor to the hotel industry. However, disruptive innovation isn’t new. Facebook was a disruptor to the way people communicate, and businesses now utilise it to engage in the participatory culture between companies and clients so prevalent today. The iPhone was a major disruptor for technology and the convergence of media and has become a tool that it seems we cannot live without. In fact, it isn’t even a recent phenomenon as the printing press was considered an innovative disruptor during the Scientific Revolution.

Its disruption changed the way the world communicated and was originally suppressed by the elite and religious as it stifled their power over knowledge. Gutenberg’s printing press gave knowledge to everyone. In the same vain, there is criticism of real estate disruptors as the monopoly by traditional agencies of an approximately 6.6 trillion dollar residential industry in Australia is being threatened. The various disruptive concepts that are shaking traditional real estate’s foundations include Brickx for property investment, online auctions with Gavl or BidRhino, accurate pricing with no underquoting handled by RealAs, renting with Property Connect and rent.com.au, buying off the plan apartments with iBuyNew, and finding the right agent with LocalAgentFinder and OpenAgent. For selling your home, there is DIY selling with Buy My Home or For Sale by Owner with minimal fees and minimal assistance. Then there is set fee packages with no commission, like PurpleBricks, which has come in from the UK with a mammoth marketing budget to create listings. Hello Real Estate, an Australian agency also has set fee packages and no commission, but what Hello offers further is end-to-end packages that include everything that you need to sell your home. With professional licensed service providers, including legals and conveyancing, you won’t need to reach into your pocket for anything else – a onestop shop. A mentor will assist the whole way through the process, so you won’t need to make decisions alone. It is customer service redefined. Additionally, there are portals and processes like the Hello Bid n Buy system that allows buyers and sellers to agree online to a price offering full transparency that lessens the stress and uncertainty of such a huge transaction. It can’t be denied that disruption is changing most industries and with everincreasing technological advancement it stands to reason that real estate will continue to face a shake-up. As new market and value networks are created the position of disruptors such as Hello Real Estate will be to create businesses, products and services that are less expensive, more creative and scalable. Disruption is becoming the new normal.

Why Aren’t You DELEGATING? WORDS SARAH SCOTT PKF Newcastle Delegation is an important skill, but it’s one that a lot of people struggle with. The benefits of delegation are immense; it will improve your life, help you to become more efficient and buy you back time. No matter your position and role, from business owner to receptionist, you should only be dealing with the tasks that are at your level. It’s not good for business to have the business owner emptying the bins each night when they could be networking and meeting potential new customers who could bring in significant new work for the business. So, why don’t people delegate? Here are the top five excuses people use when they aren’t delegating effectively: 1. No one else can do this job as well as me. This approach is insanity! It’s just going to keep you stressed and busy, so it’s not a long term solution. You either need to train your team or replace them with people capable of completing the work. 2. No one volunteered to help me. Isn’t that sad? Business owner and managers often think that as no one has volunteered to help, that means that no one cares enough about the business to help them. The reality is that others are completely unaware that you need the help! 3. Everyone else is too busy. If your team is so busy that they can’t possibly take on any more, you need to ask two very simple questions are they good delegators themselves? Or, are you under staffed? Do you need more people? 4. It will take me too long to explain it. This could be true for the first time you get someone to do the task for you. But if the task you’re looking at is something you do over and over again, the time and energy you’re going to waste by not delegating will far outweigh the investment you need to make to teach someone else. If you don’t delegate these tasks, you’re sentencing yourself to a lifetime of doing them yourself. 5. What if they do a better job than me? Good leadership is simply getting the right job done, by the right person in the right amount of time. So, if you’re going to do that, you want to hope

that someone does do the better job than you. Successful business leaders don’t worry about the small stuff. They trust their team to do a stellar job and aren’t threatened by team member’s success. There’s a lot that can stop effective delegation from actually occurring! The benefits of effective delegation are countless. You’ll find you have more time with your family, more time working on the valuable tasks that you actually enjoy doing, that you achieve the goals that you set for yourself, that you help other people to grow and that the business makes more money. If you’re not delegating to other people in your team, how are they going to develop and grow? And, what will motivate them to stay with you and the business? The biggest benefit of effective delegation is the sense of achievement you’ll feel at the end of the day. No longer will you end a day feeling like you’ve been really busy, running around, but you haven’t achieved anything. Sound familiar? If you find yourself using these excuses regularly, stop and take stock. You need help to understand why you’re not delegating effectively. Visit www.momentumforbusiness.com today.

With 26,000 hours of business coaching between them, David and Harry are keen to help businesses face their challenges and overcome them to see success and growth. Through Momentum for Business, Harry and David will take you and your business on a journey which will improve your business and your skills with the overall goal of helping you to get a better lifestyle for yourself and your family; what that typically means is more time and more money. Try our introduction courses today at no cost, or sign up for $99 a month to have full access to our business library (no lock-in contract; cancel anytime). www.momentumforbusiness.com

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