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27 MAY 2022 ISSUE 018

OVONEWS ISSUE 018 27 MAY 2022

NovoNews

Walking tours set to educate, explore and excite

NSW SES have launched a new recruitment campaign, with its Hunter Capability Unit looking for new volunteers to join.

See page 5

NovoSociety

A Hunter man has reunited families with their long-lost home movies decades later.

See page 17

NovoCastrian

Local walking tour business, Newcastle Afoot, has announced the launch of a new mural and school education program providing immersive student tours that explore Newcastle’s rich history, geography and visual arts.

See page 18 Luke Russell from Wylaa Buuranliyn, Becky Kiil from Newcastle Afoot, artist Inari and her team from Creative Compound at The Station mural.

Photo: Lee Illfield

Newcastle remains a Labor stronghold New owners of The Grand Hotel have removed the pokies and restored the pub to its former social glory.

See page 21

NovoSport

The Saturday Orienteering Series has returned with newcomers and seasoned orienteers called to join in.

See page 23

The federal seat of Newcastle has remained a Labor stronghold after another decisive victory by incumbent Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon.

“I am so grateful to receive the support of the people of Newcastle to once again be their Federal Member for Newcastle, as part of an Albanese Labor Government,” Claydon said.

“It is an incredible privilege to be Newcastle’s voice in the Australian Parliament, and I will continue to fight every day for our community as we build a better future for all.”

Despite the previous few years of the pandemic representing a “challenge” for Novocastrians, Claydon said she was proud of the Newcastle community for “coming together”.

She said the people of Newcastle overwhelmingly backed Labor’s plan for a better future.

“Labor’s plan spoke to Novocastrians

about the issues most important to us and our region,” she said.

“Now it’s time to get to work.”

As this election is the first time Labor has been elected to government during Claydon’s nine-year tenure, she signalled her intention to deliver on commitments she had made.

This included delivering funding to local domestic violence organisations, addressing the recruitment of general practitioners to the Hunter and reopening the GP Access After Hours Clinic, which was closed on Christmas Eve last year.

“Being part of Albanese Labor Government means that we can now set the agenda and shape our nation’s future,” she said.

“I will use my voice in Canberra to deliver on the commitments I have already made.

“This is alongside Labor’s national agenda: establishing a National Anti-

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Corruption Commission, taking real action on climate change, making childcare cheaper, fixing the aged care crisis, tackling housing affordability and implementing the Uluru Statement from the Heart.”

Labor Leader, Anthony Albanese, was sworn in as Australia’s 31st Prime Minister on May 23.

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Newcastle remains a Labor stronghold Fom page 1

Labor candidates had a sweeping victory across the Hunter Region, with four Labor members elected to the House of Representatives.

The Australian Labor Party held on to the marginal seat of the Hunter as fivetime Olympian, Dan Repacholi, claimed victory in a career-first.

Pat Conroy has retained the seat of Shortland, leading by 9,295 votes over contending Liberal candidate, Nell McGill.

Labor member, Meryl Swanson also claimed the seat of Paterson in a close race against the Liberal candidate, Brooke Vitnell.

In Newcastle, the Greens celebrated their largest-ever swing of 4.5 per cent, securing one in five votes in the electorate.

Greens candidate for Newcastle, Charlotte McCabe, expressed her gratitude for the “Greenslide” within

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Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, thanked her supporters on May 21.

Newcastle and across the wider nation.

“The Liberal party usually has the second-highest vote in Newcastle after

Labor, but this time we got almost the same number of votes as them,” she said.

“Next time, we will overtake the Liberals and become the new contest for the seat.

“This will mean both major parties will be having a close look at our policies and wondering what they can do to win some of those Green votes back.”

McCabe said the Greens’ policies on climate change and inequality had resonated across the country.

At the time of writing this article, 78.2 per cent of votes had been counted in the Newcastle Electorate.

Of those votes, 44.3 per cent of constituents elected Claydon as their first preference, 24.3 per cent elected Liberal candidate, Katrina Wark, while 20.2 per cent elected Charlotte McCabe.

While the Australian Electoral Commission has been counting votes since polls closed on May 21, postal votes are expected to take up to two weeks to arrive and be sorted.

Maia O’Connor

City’s footpath expansion begins City of Newcastle civil construction trainee, Mitch Curry, at work on the construction of a 320-metre long section of footpath on the northern side of Newcastle Road in Jesmond.

Photo: City of Newcastle

Smart technology and community insights are helping to guide the expansion of the city’s footpath network.

Work has started to develop the city’s Principal Pedestrian Network (PPN), which is a mapped network of existing and future pedestrian routes that support activity in and around key destinations such as neighbourhood and retail centres, schools, parks and transport stops.

City of Newcastle maintains 1,000 kilometres of footpath across the city and adds to this network each year to address missing gaps.

To support the expansion, the PPN will guide how new footpaths are prioritised to deliver the best benefits for the community.

The PPN will build on the extensive amount of existing information on

Newcastle’s pedestrian infrastructure, which is based on previous community submissions, public works, surveys and known projects around the city.

Deputy Lord Mayor, Declan Clausen, said community feedback was important to ensuring pedestrian networks catered to everyone including older residents, people with mobility or vision impairments, school children, tourists and recreational pedestrians.

“Encouraging greater participation in active transport and improving pedestrian safety are key objectives of City of Newcastle,” Cr Clausen said.

“We need to ensure that the community is provided with suitable pedestrian facilities for daily activities. Our footpaths help children travel safely to school, commuters get to the bus stop, parents walk with prams, and dog owners exercise with their pooch.

“Community views will help us better

understand what’s working well, and where improvement is needed. This initial engagement will help us understand why some people choose to walk, and others don’t, which will help us plan the future of our city.

“We’re asking the community to provide input via an inclusive survey designed to better understand community attitudes and behaviours around pedestrian accessibility in Newcastle, including non-infrastructure related enablers and barriers to participation.”

Once the draft PPN is finalised, City of Newcastle will proceed with the second round of community consultation that will allow users to view and add their thoughts to an interactive map of the PPN. To complete the survey, visit newcastle. nsw.gov.au/yoursay.

Information source: City of Newcastle

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Kaden Centre offered critical government funding The Kaden Centre in Warabrook has been offered a helping hand, enabling it to continue delivering services to those with cancer and chronic illnesses in the Hunter.

On May 10, Labor announced it would invest $1 million over four years to revitalise the Kaden Centre cancer exercise oncology clinic if elected.

After Labor Leader, Anthony Albanese, was sworn in as Australia’s 31st Prime Minister on May 23, a spokesperson for Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, revealed the government was still in a “transition period” and must wait until an official Health Minister was named to deliver financial support.

Acting Managing Director of the Kaden Centre, Loukas Nadiotis, described the funding announcement as “massive” for the facility and its clients.

“It means we can pick up where we left off and continue to run the programs that help people from a perioperative and rehabilitation perspective,” Nadiotis said.

Since its inception four years ago, the Kaden Centre has been the only one of its kind in Australia.

The facility has helped just over 1200 people through its personalised exercise programs to optimise a patient’s fitness before definitive cancer treatment.

In February 2022, the Kaden Centre was forced to close due to funding issues.

“When things closed down, most of our programs dropped, and we were operating the centre under skeleton staff and helping existing clients oneon-one,” Nadiotis said.

“So, we’re very excited to get back on

board and make the service available again.”

Additionally, Nadiotis said support from several surgeons in the Hunter meant the Kaden Centre could take on more one-on-one appointments, despite its closure.

Federal Member for Newcastle, Sharon Claydon, said the indefinite closure of Kaden Centre left the Newcastle and Hunter Region bereft of a “ground-breaking” and “world-class” facility.

Claydon said that under the Albanese Labor Government, the Kaden Centre would be able to continue its support of thousands more cancer patients on their pathway to recovery.

“The program has seen a 50 per cent reduction in major complications, shorter length of hospital stay, reduced readmissions and more patients returning to complete their intended oncological treatment,” Claydon said.

Nadiotis said despite operating as a public facility, the centre had never received government funding.

“The government has never supported the Kaden Centre – we were a charity that had to close down because we couldn’t fundraise, especially during the pandemic,” he said.

“We’ve been lobbying for government support for four years now, and fortunately, Labor has listened.”

Nadiotis said the Kaden Centre’s closure was devastating for staff and the clients benefiting from their work.

“It was upsetting knowing we were going to close operations and stop servicing the people who needed it most … it was horrible not being able to assist our clients in that way.”

A petition supporting the clinic and its work amassed 13,000 signatures from

The facility has helped just over 1200 people through its personalised exercise programs to optimise a patient’s fitness before definitive cancer treatment.

residents in the Hunter and beyond.

Sheryl Otway, who started the petition, said patients who attend the centre reported “better mental health, fewer side effects from treatments and faster recovery”.

One community member who signed the petition said they had attended the Kaden Centre while having chemotherapy, and the support provided was “fantastic”.

Another signee agreed and said their aunty and cousin used the centre during their battle with cancer.

“They have expressed the important role the centre played in their recovery,” the signee wrote.

“The support from people who understand and help navigate this cancer journey is indispensable.”

Aside from assisting residents impacted by cancer and other chronic illnesses, Nadiotis said the Kaden

Centre’s top priority was to ensure a more sustainable service model.

“The model will change so we don’t find ourselves in this position again if we can’t fundraise, be it another pandemic or a drop in the market or whatever it is,” Nadiotis said.

“We’re working toward setting up a sustainable model and providing exercise oncology with our online home program, which clients use throughout Australia.

“The announcement by Labor would go a long way to supporting that goal by allowing us to expand our operations into a more sustainable model.”

Until funding is delivered, the Kaden Centre is offering one-on-one client services to improve the lives of those who have cancer and other chronic illnesses—bookings are essential.

Maia O’Connor

Spirit Super works hard for Newcastle

Consider the PDS and TMD available at spiritsuper.com.au/pds before making a decision. Issuer is Motor Trades Association of Australia Superannuation Fund Pty Ltd (AFSL 238718, ABN 14 008 650 628).

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Feedback open for Waratah Local Centre facelift

City of Newcastle Senior Project Planner Sarah Horan, Stacey Bernard from Tillys Play and Development Centre and councillor Peta Winney-Baartz.

Photo: City of Newcastle

Consultation has commenced with community stakeholders at Waratah Local Centre as the City of Newcastle seeks to improve safety, parking and public spaces in the area.

Council revealed the draft Public Domain Plan would gauge the values, issues and priorities of residents and businesses, informing the revitalisation of the area surrounding Station Street during future construction.

Councillor, Peta Winney-Baartz, said the future upgrade aims to create a more accessible, attractive and safe

local centre for the Waratah community.

“Our public domain plan will upgrade the streetscape and improve access to shops and address traffic and safety in the area,” Cr Winney-Baartz said.

“Our upgrades often include new footpaths, trees and street furniture… so the community must share their feedback about what they would like to see.

“By improving the area’s functionality, look, and feel, we hope to see more people visiting and spending time at the local centre.”

The planned upgrade at Waratah follows similar local centre upgrades at

Carrington, Kotara, Merewether and Hamilton.

Upgrades are currently under construction in Stockton, Shortland and Orchardtown Road in New Lambton.

Council’s Local Centres Public Domain Program guides safety and streetscape upgrades of local and neighbourhood centres throughout the Newcastle LGA, which play an important role in the community and local economy.

In June 2021, the elected Council resolved to initiate the upgrade of the Waratah town centre, and a community survey was conducted in late 2021 for similar upgrades at Georgetown.

Once developed, the Waratah Local Centre draft Public Domain Plan will go on public exhibition and be finalised based on community feedback.

It will then go to the elected Council for approval, ahead of construction in the coming years.

The centre upgrade is among a raft of improvement projects that Waratah is undergoing under the supervision of local and state governments.

The Waratah Train Station was recently transformed in December 2020 as part of the Transport Access Program, an initiative by the NSW Transport to “provide a better experience for public transport customers by delivering modern, safe and accessible infrastructure”.

As part of the Transport Access Program, three new lifts, a new walkway, pedestrian pathways, improvements to CCTV and lighting, an accessible parking space and new toilets were installed.

A $3.48 million transformation of two ageing Waratah West homes into a modern 10-unit social housing complex is also underway, with construction on the Landa Parade project seeing two separate properties redeveloped into a low-rise accessible building.

The announcement by the State Government on May 5 said the properties would feature six twobedroom units and four one-bedroom units for up to 16 residents as part of the NSW Government’s $250 million mission to fast track the delivery of homes across the state.

Waratah businesses and residents have been encouraged to participate in the local centre online survey before it closes on June 13.

Maia O’Connor

Wallsend Library refurb ready to begin An extensive refurbishment of the Wallsend Library will enhance library members’ experience as part of ongoing investments into Newcastle’s library network.

The project is the latest in a program of works that have seen the City of Newcastle invest $7 million into libraries during the past five years, with $865,000 allocated in the draft 2022/23 Budget.

It follows other infrastructure upgrades, including the renovation and introduction of OPEN+ technology to facilitate extended community access at Lambton Library and the establishment of the city’s first Digital Library in Newcastle West.

Deputy Lord Mayor, Declan Clausen, said libraries played an important role in local communities.

“Wallsend Library hasn’t undergone a major renovation since opening in 2006, so it’s fantastic to improve the amenity

of our largest branch through this current refurbishment project,” Cr Clausen said.

“We’ve listened to member and staff feedback to inform the work, which will provide improved access to technology and create additional spaces like private study spaces, a quiet room, and creative and collaboration areas.

“The refurbishment will prioritise sustainability, collaboration and creativity by delivering an improved library that can cater for vibrant events and programs that celebrate culture, partnerships, inclusion and diversity.”

The project will also deliver enhanced flexibility for multi-use spaces through mobile shelving, lightweight furniture and innovative book displays to allow broader use of the Wallsend Library for events and activities.

Wallsend Library will be closed from Monday, June 6, to accommodate the

work, with the project expected to be completed by the end of July.

During the closure period, members will be able to access many library services such as reservations, returns,

Grab and Go collection and printing from a pop-up service onsite.

The pop-up service will be operating from Tuesday, June 14.

Information source: City of Newcastle

The refurbishment will prioritise sustainability, collaboration and creativity by delivering an improved library that can cater for vibrant events and programs.

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Newcastle donations leave for Lismore The 20,000 kilograms of clothing generously donated by the Newcastle community to help flood-affected people in the Northern Rivers left for Lismore on Thursday, May 12.

In March this year, the major flooding event saw the Wilsons River rise two metres above previous flood records, destroying homes and businesses in Lismore and surrounding areas.

In response to the disaster, Lifeline Hunter called for the support of the local community to help donate to a clothing appeal, which was immediately inundated with generous donations.

Lifeline’s retail manager for the Hunter and Northern Rivers, Michael Kats, said the items could finally be transported now that flooding had subsided and there was space to store and distribute the donated goods.

He said Lifeline had lost its Northern Rivers warehouse and three shops in the floods.

“Other communities also donated clothing, so we held back our delivery,” Katz said.

“We waited until the local people had started to get back into their homes or more stable accommodation and were able to store and use the items,” Kats said.

On Thursday morning, May 12, a semitrailer was loaded up with more than 120 pallets of clothing, shoes, belts, towels, sheets, doonas and blankets at Carrington based manufacturer Thales, which has stored the items for Lifeline.

Newcastle Permanent covered the costs to transport the items from Newcastle to the donation distribution centre at the Lismore Showgrounds.

Newcastle Permanent’s chief customer experience officer, Paul Juergens, and Lifeline’s retail manager for the Hunter and Northern Rivers, Michael Kats.

More than 50 Newcastle Permanent employees volunteered to help Lifeline volunteers sort and box up the donated items.

Newcastle Permanent’s chief customer experience officer, Paul Juergens, was one of the employees who volunteered.

“This amazing donation from Hunter

people is part of the significant recovery effort that continues,” Juergens said.

“People across the Hunter were shocked to see the devastation in the Northern Rivers and wanted a tangible way to help, and we were really happy to help facilitate that.”

To donate to Lifeline to help it continue

to support the mental health and wellbeing of flood-impacted communities, visit NorthernNSW.lifeline.org.au.

Lifeline also urges anyone who continues to struggle to cope with the ongoing impacts of the flood emergency to call 13 11 14.

Hayley McMahon

Community call out for SES volunteers

Some team members from the Hunter Capability Unit in Metford, Maitland.

NSW State Emergency Service (SES) launched a new recruitment campaign during National Volunteer Week, with its Hunter Capability Unit looking for new volunteers to join the team.

National Volunteer Week is Australia’s largest annual celebration of

volunteering and ran from May 16 to May 22, including a day of recognition specifically for NSW SES volunteers, Wear Orange Wednesday, on May 18.

SES volunteers wear orange uniforms, making them easily recognisable when responding to storm and flood-related requests.

Blue uniforms are also worn and are

often seen on volunteers who are busy behind the scenes in the Emergency Operations Centre managing the highlevel coordination of natural disaster response.

Hunter Unit Commander, Mandy Bramble, said they were looking for volunteers who work well in a fastpaced environment, can follow orders, have good computer skills and have the ability to learn new computer programs.

“The Hunter Capability Unit is a specialised team of volunteers, trained and qualified to perform the roles in an Incident Management Team, a formal structure that operates under AIIMS – the Australasian Inter-Service Incident Management System.

“This nationally recognised system ensures all emergency response agencies function under the same structure in response to natural disasters.

“The structure includes roles in Planning, Public Information and Warnings as well as Operations and Logistics…we will provide training to ensure new members acquire the skills and qualifications for these roles.”

Recent recruit, Rochele Birch, said she

joined last year and volunteered during the February and March major flood events from the Central Coast to the Queensland border.

“While the shifts were long and at times stressful, it was a very rewarding experience to be able to help those so badly impacted by the unprecedented rainfall and subsequent flooding,” Birch said.

“From the Operations Centre, we performed a vital role in managing the NSW SES response to thousands of flood-affected people across the Northern Zone.”

“Volunteering brings people together and creates a better society for everyone… of course, it’s not for everyone, but if you are up for a challenge, I highly recommend applying to become a volunteer with the Hunter Capability Unit.”

The unit trains on the first and third Tuesday night of each month and some weekends at Metford, Maitland.

To request more information about the volunteer roles available and to register for an information session in June, please email hcu.ops@ses.nsw.gov.au.

Hayley McMahon

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Fast-tracked social housing plan for Newcastle

New social housing in Macarthur Street, Shortland.

City of Newcastle has endorsed a $12 million funding agreement with the NSW Land and Housing Corporation, which will see funds invested into delivering new social and affordable housing in Newcastle.

The landmark agreement was endorsed by councillors at last night’s Ordinary Council Meeting and sets out a commitment from the NSW Government to match the council’s contribution of $2 million annually for the next three years.

Newcastle Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes, said the endorsement by councillors was a significant step towards fast-tracking social and

affordable housing outcomes for people in Newcastle while also supporting investment and job growth.

“With over 10,000 families suffering from housing stress across the city, housing affordability in Newcastle is close to crisis point, which is why this issue is a priority of the Newcastle 2040 Community Strategic Plan and the Newcastle Local Housing Strategy 2020,” Cr Nelmes said.

“This historic partnership between City of Newcastle and the NSW Government will increase the supply and range of social and affordable housing to ease the stress of the most at-risk community members while supporting investment and creating more jobs in Newcastle.

“Affordably priced housing plays a critical role in the health and wellbeing of people and their families, and social housing provides an important safety net for the community.”

Housing will be delivered in priority locations such as Wallsend.

NSW Minister for Planning and Minister for Homes, Anthony Roberts, said the agreement would deliver positive social and affordable housing outcomes for the people of Newcastle.

“We need to work across all levels of government to keep pace with the growing need for social and affordable housing,” he said.

“The NSW Government is investing more than $250 million to fast-track the delivery of more social and affordable housing across the state – but we can’t do it alone.

“We’re thrilled to be working with the City of Newcastle to address housing supply and affordability…we hope this investment will encourage more of our local government partners to do the same.”

Research undertaken by City of Newcastle showed that one in three people didn’t believe there were enough diverse housing options for everyone across the city.

One-quarter of residents didn’t believe they could afford a reasonable standard of housing in the area.

The latest forecast shows the population is set to increase by 41,150

residents to 202,050 by 2041 in the Newcastle Local Government Area (LGA), stimulating demand for almost 20,000 new dwellings.

“The NSW Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) owns 4,300 social housing dwellings across the Newcastle LGA, and City of Newcastle is working in close partnership with LAHC to fasttrack projects such as renewing existing properties in Waratah West and Wallsend,” Cr Nelmes said.

Construction has already commenced on the redevelopment of two ageing homes on Landa Parade in Waratah West, which will be transformed into a modern 10-unit social housing complex.

“City of Newcastle and NSW Land and Housing Corporation wants to ensure future social housing continues to be built in the right places with good access to jobs, services, public transport and open space,” Cr Nelmes said.

Separately to the agreement, City of Newcastle recently announced that it was inviting tenders from suitably qualified property consultants, community housing providers and developers for an affordable housing feasibility study.

The tender will investigate models for the ownership, operation and delivery of affordable housing on council-owned sites, including land with existing buildings and usage or vacant land.

Maia O’Connor

New program drives refugee empowerment A new program will provide fullyfunded driving lessons, driving tests and a driver’s licence to local refugees and asylum seekers adjusting to their new life in the Hunter.

With the help of City of Newcastle, CatholicCare Hunter-Manning’s Refugee Hub Driving Program will break down barriers faced by newly arrived refugees and start them on their pathway towards education, employment and empowerment.

CatholicCare’s Refugee Hub supports people from refugee, asylum-seeker and vulnerable migrant backgrounds to settle into life in Australia.

The program will support 20 refugees through funded driving lessons, a NSW Driving Test and NSW Driver’s Licence.

Director of CatholicCare Social Services, Gary Christensen, said the driving program opened up future employment, study and community service opportunities for the refugees.

“We know that transport is essential for accessibility, but often many refugees, asylum seekers and recent arrivals find it difficult to get a driver’s licence and car when in Australia for a

number of reasons,” Christensen said.

He said the barriers faced by refugees included language and comprehension issues and financial difficulties associated with costs and access to affordable training.

“We’re extremely grateful to have backing from City of Newcastle … the grant funding will provide no-cost certified driving lessons with a qualified trainer, driver knowledge, hazard perception tests, a driving test and ultimately a P1 driver’s licence,” Christensen said.

In 2021, 17 new families were referred to CatholicCare’s Refugee Hub every month, taking advantage of programs including English language support, primary and secondary school tutoring and beach and bike safety workshops.

Driving program participant, Madina, who moved to Newcastle in 2017 from Afghanistan, said she was happy to participate in a program that would help her create a pathway towards a fulfilling future.

“I appreciate the chance to participate in this program and ultimately gain my driver’s licence,” Madina said.

“I want to access study and future work in the army or police force.”

Director of CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning Gary Christensen, councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, CatholicCare Refugee Hub Driving Program participants Madina and Edeni, NRMA driving instructor Jackie Chestney and Team Leader Mirja Colding-Moran.

Ward 3 councillor, Peta Winney-Baartz, said the initiative was a worthy cause.

“City of Newcastle wants to ensure that all members of our community can access the services they require, to seek and maintain employment, explore study options and connect with their local community, regardless of their background and language,” Cr WinneyBaartz said.

“That’s why we’re pleased to support

CatholicCare’s Refugee Hub Driving Program, which will ensure that refugees can get the driving experience they require to obtain a licence.”

The program is a recipient of City of Newcastle’s Community and Economic Resilience Package, which provides funding to support vulnerable communities through the ongoing impacts of COVID-19.

Maia O’Connor

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Roundhouse recognised as state heritage The iconic 1970s Roundhouse building in Newcastle’s civic precinct has been added to the State Heritage Register.

Now home to Newcastle’s first fivestar hotel, Crystalbrook Kinglsey, the well-known landmark was formally the City Administration Centre.

Heritage NSW’s Executive Director, Sam Kidman, said the building opened in 1977 and represented an important regional NSW expression of the 20th Century international Modernism style of Brutalist design.

Brutalism is also characterised by innovative construction methods and ingenious design techniques.

The building was nominated for state heritage listing by architect legend, Brian Suters, who was part of the original local architectural design team of Wilson & Suters.

Suters helped shape the building, collaborating with renowned Australian architectural practice Romberg and Boyd.

Suters was named a Freeman of the City by the City of Newcastle on March 24 to recognise his contribution to Newcastle’s built form.

Heritage Council of NSW Chair, Frank

Howarth, said it was great to see the brutalist design of the building preserved.

“I am impressed at how the original construction and design has been conserved and celebrated,” Howarth said.

“The adapted building fits in with all its state heritage neighbours in this wonderful civic precinct.

“The renovation of the former City Administration Centre into the Crystalbrook Kingsley hotel has revealed a highly successful adaptation of a historically important building.”

The Crystalbrook Collection purchased and renovated the landmark building and officially opened its doors on June 15, 2021.

Crystalbrook Collection stated that the Crystalbrook Kingsley aimed to celebrate the city’s past and future.

“One of the group’s commitments to the hotel development was celebrating what the building was and what it is to become,” Crystalbrook Kingsley’s General Manager, Carl Taranto, said.

“The colour and materials of the additions are recessive in their nature, accentuating, celebrating and not competing with the concrete masonry for which the Roundhouse is known.”

The building opened in 1977 as the City Administration Centre and is now a five-star hotel, the Crystalbrook Kingsley.

Photo: Hunter Photo Bank

The State Heritage Register will protect the building, ensuring the conservation of the heritage character and now holds an integral place in the state’s collective identity.

Another local example of brutalist design can be seen at the Newcastle City Police Station, designed by government architect J.W. (Ian) Thomson and constructed between 1975 to 1982.

The station and its brutalist frontage

are set for a $6.5 million facelift, announced by Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, in October 2021.

The upgrade will see a new façade, improved office space and a proposal to relocate the building entrance from Church Street to Watt Street— construction is estimated for completion in 2023.

Hayley McMahon

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Internationally acclaimed chef leads Newcastle fine-dining Internationally acclaimed Chef Massimo Speroni will bring his experience working at Michelin-star restaurants to Newcastle.

Internationally acclaimed chef, Massimo Speroni, will lead two new dining venues in the city, promising to elevate Newcastle’s flourishing food and drink scene while celebrating local producers.

QT Newcastle, the city’s newest boutique hotel located in the former David Jones building on Hunter Street, will open its doors on June 9, alongside its signature restaurants, Jana and Rooftop at QT. The hotel is part of Iris Capital’s $700 million development in the East End, which spans four city blocks and, at completion, will include three other residential buildings.

“I’m excited to showcase and champion the beautiful Hunter Valley and surrounding regions,” Speroni said.

“True to the QT philosophy, QT Newcastle will offer a highly inventive

food and beverage experience, highlighting local provenance.

“QT is a champion for providing extraordinary experiences with a touch of luxury and quirk, from design to signature service.”

The executive chef comes directly from multi-award-winning Brisbane restaurant, Bacchus.

Speroni also brings experience from the 2 Michelin-starred restaurant in Italy, San Domenico, and the 1 Michelinstarred restaurant in Pescara, Café le Paillotes.

At the heart of Jana’s dining experience is the produce-led menu showcasing ingredients found across NSW and curated in collaboration with local producers and providores.

Jana will feature a private dining room, an open kitchen and a dry-aged meat cabinet, with the restaurant’s namesake,

ancient roman goddess, Jana, representing the past and the present.

Jana’s traditional offering is wine, and this emergence of old and new extends to the hotel’s wine partner, Tyrell’s.

The Rooftop at QT will be Newcastle’s tallest rooftop bar boasting uninterrupted views across the harbour and an innovative ‘izakaya’ dining experience.

A brand renowned for its creative drink lists and curated menus, Rooftop at QT will house Newcastle’s largest library of Japanese whisky, a local wine offering and traditional beverages of sake and umeshu.

From Harajuku Highball to a Tomasu Margarita, the venue’s food is complemented with Japanese-inspired flavours featuring salmon sashimi, yakitori chicken and miso eggplant robata skewers.

Jana and Rooftop at QT will open their doors on June 9, 2022, in line with the hotel launch.

The new 106-room hotel takes inspiration from Newcastle’s workingclass coal mining heritage, with contemporary furnishings such as metal cage wardrobes and charcoal steel cabinetry, which applies a fitting industrial scope to the hotel’s luxury design and décor.

Iris Capital CEO, Sam Arnaout, said QT Newcastle would be a “beautiful blend of old meets new” with the rich history of the Scott’s building and David Jones department store maintained in design elements.

The East End master plan is expected to transform the Newcastle CBD from

Perkins to Newcomen Streets over several years and will be completed across four distinct stages.

QT Newcastle is part of the first stage of the four-block development, featuring three other separate residential buildings.

These comprise luxury apartments above the Woolworths Metro retail precinct and forum, with another 20 specialties delivered by the builder, Richard Crookes Constructions.

Stage 2 of the development sits atop the city’s former Lyrique theatre and consists of luxury apartments atop a retail precinct, of which construction is already underway.

Stages 3 and 4 of the master plan are currently in planning.

Maia O’Connor

Historic elements of the Scott’s building and David Jones department store were maintained in the QT hotel’s design elements.

Trial to enhance outdoor dining on Darby A six-month trial to enhance the outdoor dining experience along the popular eat street, Darby Street, will soon commence encouraging people to visit, stay and connect.

City of Newcastle will start the sixmonth trial in spring, making the footpath wider between Sanctum and Goldbergs’ restaurants.

During the trial period, a removable platform will be installed over seven existing car parking spaces to increase space for outdoor dining.

The temporary loss of car parking spaces will be offset by the conversion of sixteen existing paid all-day parking behind the Newcastle Art Gallery into free, two-hour parking spaces.

The project will bring new life to the Darby Headphones Courtyard with new street seating, paving, lighting and public art.

It will also include the installation of vibrant murals on both the walls and footpaths, celebrating local and

Deputy Lord Mayor, Declan Clausen, with Darby Street Three Monkeys Café owner, Ant Strachan.

Photo: City of Newcastle

upcoming artists in collaboration with local art festivals.

A new pedestrian crossing leading to the courtyard will improve accessibility and safety.

A convenient drop-off /pick-up zone

near the shops and eateries will also form part of the trial.

Newcastle Deputy Lord Mayor, Declan Clausen, said converting improvements and beautification of the popular eatstreet would benefit the community.

“Investment in our local centres helps restore confidence, create local jobs and boost our twilight and after dark economy, which employed 12,000 Novocastrians and created $1.4 billion per year in economic activity prior to COVID,” Cr Clausen said.

“Outdoor dining is more popular than ever, and this project is perfectly timed for long spring meals at Darby Street’s quirky cafes, small bars and restaurants.

“Trialling traffic calming infrastructure will make it safer for pedestrians and cyclists and help create an environment where dining spaces for local cafes and restaurants can be extended.”

The trial has been made possible with funding from the City of Newcastle Urban Centres Revitalisation Program and a $500,000 grant from the NSW Government through the Streets as Shared Spaces program.

City of Newcastle is gathering feedback on the proposed trial, with community consultation now open.

Hayley McMahon

novonews.com.au

@novonewsau

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OVONEWS

University ranked top 30 for sustainability Sustainability has proven to be at the core of the University of Newcastle’s values after being ranked in the global top 30 for sustainable values and practices.

The Times Higher Education Impact Rankings are released annually and provide a global ranking based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) developed by the United Nations.

The rankings are the first global attempt to measure university progress specifically around the SDGs, including an overall rank and a rank for each of the 17 individual goals.

University of Newcastle’s Pro-ViceChancellor of Academic Excellence, Jennifer Milam, said there were several areas where the university had ranked highly.

“We’re incredibly proud that our university is making a positive difference to our region and the world, and the results from the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings show that we continue to lead both in Australia and internationally for sustainability,” she said.

“In Australia, we ranked in the top five in the country for 13 of the 17 SDGs, which is a fantastic achievement, including ranking number one in

UON has championed sustainable transport by investing in electric car charges across its Callaghan campus.

Photo: University of Newcastle

Australia for SDG2 Zero Hunger and SDG17 Partnerships for the Goals.

“Globally, we are also recognised as one of the best-achieving universities, ranking in the top 30 in the world.”

The University ranked in the top 50 for ten of the SDGs, including ranking fourth in the world for Partnership for the Goals (SDG17), 12th in the world for Good Health and Wellbeing (SDG3)

and 16th for Climate Action (SDG13) and Affordable and Clean Energy (SDG7).

“We know that initiatives like introducing 100 per cent renewable energy and committing to being carbon neutral by 2025 have strongly resonated with our students and with our communities,” Milam said.

In 2020, the University of Newcastle was the first Australian university to implement a 100 per cent renewable electricity contract and has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 across its Newcastle and Central Coast campuses.

It has recently begun investing in sustainable transport by installing electric vehicle charging stations across the Callaghan campus.

Other sustainability initiatives include a recycling program for disposable coffee cups, diverting them from landfill, and participation in a Plastic Police program that turn soft plastics into seating benches.

“We include sustainability principles in our values, research, teaching and the facilities we provide, and these results show how widely ingrained these principles are in all areas of our work,” Milam said.

Maia O’Connor

City seeks feedback on new recycling proposal City of Newcastle (CN) is seeking feedback on its proposal to construct a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) at Summerhill Waste Management Centre, allowing red, yellow and green bin waste to be processed at one location.

The proposed facility would allow plastics, paper, cardboard, glass and metals to be recovered at the Summerhill site, which would reduce transport costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Newcastle Lord Mayor, Nuatali Nelmes, said the project would deliver major environmental and financial benefits for the city and community.

“Combined with the organics processing facility, the MRF will be an important foundation for achieving our vision for a circular economy where recyclables can be processed and remanufactured into new products locally,” Cr Nelmes said.

Recently, recyclables collected from Newcastle households have been transported to the Central Coast for processing due to the only MRF in the Hunter closing in 2020.

This affected CN and several other Hunter councils whose recyclables were also being processed locally.

Cr Nelmes said the new facility’s design featured state-of-the-art sorting technology to produce clean and wellsorted recyclable streams of plastics, paper, cardboard, glass and metals.

“Up to 28 full-time equivalent jobs will be created at the facility alone, with additional employment generated

City of Newcastle said recycling waste locally would reduce transport costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

through the emergence of downstream business incentivised by the local supply of recycled materials,” Cr Nelmes added.

The proposed design can process up to 85,000 tonnes of recyclables per annum, creating a regional solution for recyclable waste from across the Hunter.

The project received $5 million from the Federal and NSW Governments in August last year and is included in the draft 2022/23 Budget as one of four

city-shaping projects that will deliver key outcomes for the community.

CN has prepared concept designs in conjunction with site master planning to ensure the optimal location of the facility alongside other waste diversion projects.

The news comes after CN announced in March that it was exploring options to fast track the organic food waste processing facility at Summerhill.

The development application for the

organics facility is expected to go on public exhibition in mid-2022.

Information sessions relating to the MRF will be held to allow the community to ask questions and give feedback on the project and its proposed design.

Residents can attend a drop-in session on May 31 at the Minmi Progress Hall between 5.30 pm and 7.30 pm, while an online information session will be held on June 2 from noon to 1 pm.

Maia O’Connor

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novonews.com.au

The Streets of Newcastle With stage one upgrades nearing the final touches at Hunter Street Mall, we can see what is to come with further stages.

The basic preparatory engineering is commendable and very appropriate; I think it will be with us longer than the existing degraded shambles.

The gardens and street furniture are very well done, particularly around the giant fig.

The surfaces are great if a little pedestrian—pardon the pun.

I hope there are prospects for more interesting designs on the surfaces, perhaps some mosaic tiling.

But I’m concerned about the surfaces which are already filthy.

This is true of nearly all of Newcastle,

OVOFORUM

Hunter Wetlands Centre is celebrating World Environment Day with talks and tours to help visitors appreciate the wonderful place on earth that is the wetland environment.

F. Whitaker, Newcastle

The Newcastle Parkinson’s Support Group is hosting a High Tea on Saturday, June 25, between 2 pm and 4 pm at St Augustine’s Church, Winsor Street, Merewether.

A voice for all Novocastrians

WWW.AUSSIERVS.COM.AU

and view our gallery or call us on Ph: 1800 287 787 with your insurance company and claim number and we’ll handle the rest.

YOUR FINANCIAL INVESTMENT REQUIRES PROTECTION!

Celebrate World Environment Day

especially Hunter Street, where there are many food and beverage outlets.

Is there some reason why no washing down is done?

This is not true on the waterfront, where both Scratchleys and Queens Wharf Hotel do an excellent job nearly every day.

One would think that the shop owners themselves would protest or wash the footpaths outside their premises now and again.

Regardless, it is the City that is at fault.

Since the light rail, many new footpaths are now in a terrible state—it reflects poorly on Newcastle, with no excuse.

OVOFORUM

WHY WAIT MONTHS FOR YOUR CARAVAN OR MOTORHOME TO BE REPAIRED? Aussie RV & Caravan Repairs is a National repairer specialising in Caravan and Motorhome repairs.

Offering on-site insurance assessments and a valet pick up and drop off service for all insurance work. All repairs are guaranteed and carried out by qualified technicians.

Visit us at

@novonewsau

Do you have an opinion about something in the Newcastle community? A compliment? A concern? A rebuttal? Or simply an observation that you believe serves the public interest.

NovoForum is here to provide an outlet for Novocastrians to discuss, offer insight, share knowledge, and have their say about local issues that matter to them.

NovoNews encourages all groups and individuals in Newcastle to contribute their news, opinions, community comments, notices and items of interest for publication.

Please send your entries to editorial@novonews.com.au and include a full name and suburb to be published. All entries are subject to our final editorial discretion.

All content must be readable and coherent and must not be offensive or defamatory – the Editor reserves the right to truncate, amend or not to publish any material sent to us.

Volunteer now and help save a local lives…

Our volunteers are helping us to save local lives every day and there’s a Westpac Rescue Helicopter Volunteer Support Group near you!

Our dedicated Support Group members assist with a variety of exciting events and fundraising initiatives in your local community.

Your contribution as a Volunteer makes you a part of every lifesaving mission we fly, so why not join your nearest Support Group now!

Phone 1800 155 155 or visit rescuehelicopter.com.au/volunteer

Join a guide from the Hunter Bird Observers Club, take a buggy tour and rainforest walk to see the restored East Coast Native rainforest, paddle along the canoe channel on a guided tour,

OVOFORUM enjoy free guided walks and visit the Bush Tucker Garden.

There are crafts, dip-netting and the chance to get up close to some friendly reptiles for the kids.

Entry is $5 for the day; for more information and to book a tour go to www.wetlands.org.au/events/worldenvironment-day-2022/

High Tea for Parkinson’s

This event will help raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s disease and

OVOFORUM showcase the fun activities available for people with Parkinson’s in the community.

Tickets can be purchased upon entry which are $15 each.

Clothing for Every Occasion at Miss Porter’s House The Porter women were prolific home dressmakers, from underwear to coats, business suits to party frocks.

Admire their skills on display in the June 12 exhibition, Clothing for Every Occasion.

See stunning homemade clothing and household textiles from the 1910s to 1990s made by Florence Porter and her

OVOFORUM daughters Ella and Hazel.

Miss Porter’s House Museum is located at 434 King Street, Newcastle West.

Clothing for Every Occasion exhibit will be on display on Sunday, June 12, between 1 pm to 4 pm.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 4927 0202.

Do you want to learn to Square Dance?

Tartan Promenaders Square Dancers are commencing beginner’s classes on Wednesday, June 8, from 7 pm at the Senior Citizens Hall, 52 Harrison St, Cardiff.

No experience is necessary, and singles are welcome.

OVOFORUM Keep fit while having fun and meeting new friends.

Pay-as-you-go. No lock-in contracts.

Great music. The first session is free.

Contact Violet on 0421 196 163 for more information.

Brought to you by moneymag.com.au

CREATING FINANCIAL FREEDOM novonews.com.au

@novonewsau

How property investors can claim a bonus How property investors can claim a bonus Michelle CREATING FINANCIAL FREEDOM

P11

27 MAY 2022 ISSUE 018

Brought to you by moneymag.com.au

WITH

BALTAZAR WITH

Editor-in-Chief • Money magazine

Michelle BALTAZAR

Editor-in-Chief magazine Australians love• Money proper2. Make sure you have all your ty, and not just their home. paperwork up to date.

Many also see investing in Every cent you claim must property as a great to be substantiated by have records, so Australians love way proper2. Make sure you all your build wealth. ty, and not just their home. if paperwork you’ve been up tardy to date.during the Many see investing you toclaim If you’realso a landlord, the yearlyin yearEvery now iscent the time act. must way to be3. substantiated by records, so taxproperty claim is aas waya ofgreat maximising If you don’t have a deprecibuild from wealth. if you’ve been now tardyisduring the returns your portfolio. ation schedule, the time a landlord, is the with time to act.

It’Ifs you’re important to claimtheallyearly you toyear getnow in touch a quantity tax claim is a way of maximising 3. If you don’t have a depreciare entitled to, but it’s equally surveyor. returns from yourit portfolio. ation is the time important to get right if you The schedule, schedule now contains all It’ s important to claim all you to get in touch with a quantity don’t want to face an audit. the relevant data you or your are to, but it’s equally surveyor. need regarding the Withentitled the clock ticking down accountant it right year, if you compensation The schedule contains all to important the end oftothisgetfinancial for wear and tear don’t want to face an audit. the relevant data you or your property investors still have of your building and its fittings. the sure clockthey ticking accountant needwill regarding the timeWith to make scoredown the Many investors find claimto the end of this financial compensation tear maximum deduction possible:year, ing depreciationfor wear yieldsand thouproperty investors still have of your building and its fittings.

1. Consider prepaying interest sands of dollars of deductions. time to make sure they score the You Many will find claimand other expenses before June caninvestors also claim a deducdeduction possible: ing fordepreciation yields thou30maximum to claim the deduction in the tion the cost of the depreci1.

Consider prepaying interest sands of dollars of deductions.

2021-22 year. ation schedule. and expenses before canclaim also what claimyou’re a deducThis other is particularly usefulJune if 4.You Don’t not 30 to claim the deduction in the tion for the cost of the depreciyou expect to earn less income entitled to.

2021-22 ation schedule. next year;year. maybe you’re going A common mistake is to claim This is particularly useful if 4.

Don’t claim you’re not on maternity leave or plan to initial repairs or what improvements you expect to earn less income entitled to. work less or even retire next fi- as an immediate deduction. next year; maybe you’re going A common mistake is to claim nancial year.

Initial repairs to rectify damon maternity leave or plan to initial repairs or improvements work less or even retire next fi- as an immediate deduction. nancial year.

Initial repairs to rectify dam-

age or defects that existed at the time of purchase are generally considered capital in nature and age or defects that existed at the not deductible, even if you cartime of purchase are generally ried them out to make the propconsidered capital in nature and erty suitable for renting. not deductible, even if you carried them out to make the property suitable for renting.

Depreciation could be claimed on this expenditure as a capital works deduction over 40 years.

Depreciation could be claimed Another mistake is to claim on this expenditure as a capital the cost of travel to inspect your works deduction over 40 years. property or collect rent, as this Another mistake is to claim the cost of travel to inspect your property or collect rent, as this

claim was discontinued from July 1, 2017.

5. If the property is split beclaim was discontinued from tween self-use and renting out, July 1, 2017. make sure you apportion the ex5. If the property is split bepenses correctly. tween self-use and renting out, make sure you apportion the expenses correctly.

Finding value for money is the main driver behind our everyday shopping choices Finding value for money is – even moredriver so nowbehind that the the main our cost of living has taken off. everyday shopping choices –But evenmany more consumers so now thatare the willing to living pay more to support cost of has taken off. businesses with aconsumers strong social But many are purpose, with one in five happy willing to pay more to support to businesses commit more 10% extra withthan a strong social to purpose, their bill. with one in five happy This is the core to commit moretakeaway than 10%from extra

But there’s scepticism about the true motivations of businesses But claiming to be driven by purthere’s scepticism about pose before profit – of55% of the the true motivations businessthose surveyed viewed es claiming to be driven bythese purorganisations as disingenuous. pose before profit – 55% of the So, how do youviewed sort thethese purthose surveyed poseful wheat from the chaff? organisations as disingenuous.As a starting yousort might So, howpoint, do you the look purfor B Corp certification. poseful wheat from the chaff? As titlepoint, is administered by a This starting you might look not-for-profit organisation B Lab for B Corp certification.

and assesses companies from numerous social and environmental angles, evaluating their and assesses companies from performance everyand three years numerous social environagainst improving standards. mental angles, evaluating their Assessableevery factors performance threeinclude years how transparent the company against improving standards. is Assessable with employees and customfactors include ers, how the business is struchow transparent the company tured, how it works with its supis with employees and customply chain and how it sources ers, how the business is strucand uses tured, howenergy. it works with its sup-

There are over 4600 Certified B Corporations globally, with close to 400 based in Australia There are over 4600 Certified New Zealand.globally, with Band Corporations Local names oninthe B Corp close to 400 based Australia list include the design company and New Zealand.

Koskela, the clothing OutLocal names on thebrand B Corp land Denim and 4 Pines Brewlist include the design company ing Company.

Koskela, the clothing brand Outto bank landThose Denimwanting and 4 Pines Brew-or invest with a B Corp can invesing Company. tigate Beyond Thoseinstitutions wanting tolikebank or

Shoppers are prepared to add ethics to their list Shoppers are prepared to add ethics to their list

to their bill.

This is the core takeaway from

the CommBank Consumer Insights Report, which identified fair employee practices, reduced the CommBank Consumer Inplastic community sights use, Report,local which identified support, emissions reduction fair employee practices, reduced and data security as the top soplastic use, local community cial causes Australians want to support, emissions reduction see businesses getting behind. and data security as the top soA third the 5639 want peopleto cial causesof Australians surveyed said the pandemic had see businesses getting behind. galvanised their resolve to make A third of the 5639 people more deliberate choices. surveyed said the pandemic had galvanised their resolve to make more deliberate choices.

This title is administered by not-for-profit organisation B Lab

ply chain and how it sources and uses energy.

invest with a B Corp can investigate institutions like Beyond

Deduction checklist • advertising for tenants • body corporate fees and charges checklist Deduction cleaning for tenants • •advertising • •body corporate council rates fees and charges • gardening and lawn • mowing cleaning • •council rates(building, coninsurance • tents, gardening lawn publicand liability) mowing • interest expenses • •insurance land tax (building, contents, public liability) • pest control • •interest expenses property agent’s fees and • commission land tax • •pest control repairs and maintenance • •property agent’s fees and water charges commission • quantity surveyor • schedule. repairs and maintenance • water charges • quantity surveyor schedule.

Examples include renting out

a holiday home or renting out part of your home either for a Examples include renting out short term or for a longer-term a holiday home or renting out arrangement. part of your home either for a PAM WALKLEY short term or for a longer-term arrangement.

PAM WALKLEY

Bank, Bank Australia, Future Super, Sharesies and Wattle Partners, among others.

Bank, Bank Australia, Future Sushoppersand are looking to add per, IfSharesies Wattle Partsocial purpose to their purchasners, among others. es, they canare looklooking to guides If shoppers to addlike the Shop Ethical! app, which social purpose to their purchasprovides a record of companies es, they can look to guides like behind bandswhich that’s the Shop common Ethical! app, based on praise or criticism provides a record of companies across common a range ofbands issues.that’s behind OLIVIA GEE based on praise or criticism across a range of issues.

OLIVIA GEE

Subscribe to Subscribe Money andto Money and receive a receive a of FREE copy FREE copy of The Good The Good Guide Investment *Available during May ONLY. Investment Guide

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novonews.com.au

@novonewsau

Newcastle’s kitchen staffing shortage boils over

“Businesses are cutting down on labour costs to make ends meet and survive.

The former chef failed to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

“I didn’t see a solution, and that’s why I jumped ship…I took a significant pay loss to do something I find more rewarding.”

He conceded that lifting immigration restrictions and improving workplace cohesiveness might help attract chefs and other kitchen staff back to the industry.

“Mutual respect is the biggest key from owners to the operations team,” he said.

“It’s about treating people how you want to be treated.

“Kitchens, unfortunately, have aspects of the old Gordon Ramsey, chefs still behave like that, and you can’t in 2022 … staff shouldn’t be scared of their chefs.”

He said improved pay and a better work-life balance would also contribute to hospitality appeal.

“The pay is not great, although depending on your position, the pay can be quite rewarding, and you can get up to six figures—however you’re working 50 to 70 hours a week,” he said.

“Those hours are not sustainable for relationships, and it’s not sustainable for friendships; you have to let your social life almost die.”

Light at the end of the tunnel

Australian Government data projects a national shortage of 60,000 chefs by 2023.

Newcastle and the Hunter’s hospitality venues are amid a staffing shortage, with stakeholders attributing the crisis to lifestyle demands, sub-optimal workplace conditions and immigration issues.

For Shinya Dalby, whose family owns a Japanese restaurant in Newcastle, operating a small business over the past few years has not been easy.

As a result of a skills shortage and undersupply of staff, her family’s restaurant has been forced to close its doors on occasion due to “severe staff shortages”.

“My mum, who runs the restaurant, has been struggling with getting staff for a long time,” Dalby said.

“For years, she relied heavily on Japanese international students to flow through, so staffing was never an issue.

“Then COVID-19 happened, which forced people to leave the country.”

After posting a plea for staff on

Facebook, Dalby said she learned it was a bigger issue that affected many local businesses.

According to the Australian Government’s job outlook data, which was released before the pandemic, figures predicted that there would be a national shortage of 60,000 chefs by 2023.

Former chef paints a bleak picture of local industry One former Newcastle chef said he had left the industry after 19 years, despite having executive experience in award-winning restaurants across Australia.

After relocating from Melbourne, the man revealed that the Hunter region, in particular, presented more toxic work

environments than Victoria, so much so that he worked at two venues for seven weeks before quitting the industry altogether.

He attributed it to the industry’s dramatic change after COVID-19, where workplaces were transformed from an “enjoyable environment” into high-pressure ones.

“We saw the industry change so much —it once was a culture of enjoying life, spending time with your colleagues and mentoring young staff,” he said.

“We need to remember that kitchen staff were on the frontline during COVID-19, and during that time, the hospitality industry was treated very poorly by the general public.”

Aside from customer pressures, he said businesses weren’t given adequate support from the government.

“Inflation prices have hit businesses so dramatically …maybe a year ago, you were buying a box of lettuce for $40, and you’re now paying $75 to $80 for the same box,” he said.

Hunter Culinary Chairman, Gus Maher, agreed that there was a “significant shortage” of hospitality workers at the present moment and said the chef profession, in particular, had experienced a shortage for several years now.

“In our dealings with TAFE, we’ve found the number of apprentices starting their apprenticeship in cooking is diminishing, as well as the number of chefs who are actually finishing their apprenticeship,” Maher said.

He said shortages were exacerbated by the pandemic and COVID-19 isolation rules, wherein at any given day, business owners were uncertain if they would have sufficient kitchen or waitstaff to operate.

Maher said that more favourable wages and conditions for apprentices would hopefully be seen as an incentive for more to take up the profession.

Speaking recently to a chef, he said that junior chefs were nearly on the same money as head chefs when hours worked are viewed – so the pay had undoubtedly improved.

“A solution was to restore the inherent appeal of the profession… not by glamourising it but emphasising the rewards that a cheffing career can offer,” he said.

“Where we do lose a lot of people is the weekend and night work; however, one of the things that make a good chef is passion and hence for many, this is a small sacrifice.

“We need to get through to younger people to say this is a really good viable career option.”

Maia O’Connor

novonews.com.au

@novonewsau

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OVOSOCIETY

Merewether local receives top honour Animal Justice Party candidate, Emily Brollo.

Merewether resident and St John Ambulance volunteer, Dr Jason Bendall, was honoured at Sydney’s Government House on May 20, recognising his devoted time and effort to helping others.

Dr Bendall was awarded The Order of St John along with 16 other St John Ambulance NSW members at the St John Ambulance Australia (NSW) Investiture Ceremony.

The Order of St John recognises members who go above and beyond to devote their time, effort, and expertise to help others.

Membership within The Order of St John is an honour sanctioned by the Governor-General on behalf of The Order’s Sovereign Head, Queen Elizabeth II. Dr Bendall is an Associate Professor and the Clinical Dean at the University of Newcastle Manning Clinical School within the Department of Rural Health.

He has been a specialist anaesthetist at John Hunter Hospital, a pre-hospital and retrieval medicine specialist with the Hunter Retrieval Service and previously worked as a paramedic before training in medicine.

Dr Bendall is the Convenor of the First Aid sub-committee of the Australian Resuscitation Council and is a member of the International Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) first aid task force.

At the May 20 ceremony, Dr Bendall was promoted to the Grade of Commander and was recognised for fulfilling the Commissioner’s role from

2017 to 2021.

As Commissioner of St John Ambulance NSW, Dr Bendall revived volunteerism, which resulted in strong growth in adult and youth membership.

He worked closely with the CEO, Board members and the senior volunteer leadership in introducing structural changes that resulted in enhanced services for members and improved integration of teams.

CEO of St John Ambulance NSW, Sarah Lance, said that volunteers made up an essential part of the organisation and helped make communities a better and safer place for all.

“These volunteers have made significant contributions to their communities through an ongoing dedication to St John Ambulance NSW,” Lance said.

“We are proud to honour them and recognise their ongoing commitment to service.

“The past year has been particularly significant…our volunteers have provided critical support throughout the pandemic and have supported our communities with critical medical and mental health support, as events and gatherings return.”

Lance said their members were also on the frontline, supporting communities throughout the recent flooding crisis in Northern NSW. In 2021, over 2000 volunteers provided more than 65000 hours of community service to help build safer and more resilient communities.

Commissioner of St John Ambulance

Dr Bendall (third along from the right, on the bottom row) with the 16 other St John Ambulance NSW members who were awarded The Order of St John on May 20 at the Government House, Sydney.

NSW, Ilan Lowbeer, said all of the members recognised had demonstrated high levels of integrity and commitment to their communities, carrying out the mission of St John Ambulance NSW. “We are proud to recognise each of them and thank them for their

commitment to supporting our communities.”

To find out more about St John Ambulance NSW or to become a volunteer, call 1300 ST JOHN or visit stjohnnsw.com.au Hayley McMahon

Winners announced for the 2022 Hunter Safety Awards Local businesses and individuals who have demonstrated excellence in workplace health and safety were honoured at the 2022 Hunter Safety Awards on May 12.

Labelled as the Hunter’s biggest night on the calendar for work, health and safety (WHS), the award ceremony was held at NEX, Newcastle West, and was the first in-person event hosted since 2019.

Hunter Safety Awards Founder, SarahJane Dunford, said it was a pleasure to be back in the room with so many likeminded individuals and businesses.

“This event had been a long time coming, and we’re so glad we were able to hold it in person once again,” Dunford said.

“The safety-conscious individuals and businesses in the Hunter Region deserved to be recognised, and we’re grateful the event went off without a hitch.”

In its sixth year, the awards recognised businesses across 13 different health and safety categories, with further consideration of mental health in the submitted entries following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Major winners included Maitland company, Fenech Demolition, which

The Fenech Demolition team walked away with two wins, including the prestigious WHS Business of the Year.

was awarded the prestigious Gold Safety Helmet in the WHS Business of the Year category and Best WHS Management System for Small to Medium Enterprises.

Dunford said the judges were highly impressed with Fenech Demolition’s six-step management system and their overall approach to safety management in their business.

“Fenech Demolition faced some

extremely hazardous risks in their line of work and developed a proactive approach to safety management in their industry,” Dunford said.

“Their values around open communication for reporting on hazards, bi-weekly meetings with their team, and training sessions were excellent examples of how all businesses should approach safety no matter the size.”

Manager of Fenech Demolition, Julian Fenech, was speechless over their two award wins.

“We weren’t expecting any wins, and we just thought we were coming to an awards night to enjoy some great entertainment with our team and our family,” Fenech said.

“I am honestly lost for words and couldn’t make a speech when we won because I was shocked and excited.

“We’ve taken safety to another level, not just on the job site, but in our workplace where it all begins.

“Everybody wants to go home to their families, and as a family-owned business, that’s what we’re all about.”

Asset Training was also a dual winner on the night and awarded Best WHS Training Program for its development of Australia’s first online Drain Cleaning System Refresher course and Young WHS Leader of the Year for team member, Sam Herd.

“My team and company have been the driving force behind my dedication to safety, and I wouldn’t have won this without them,” Herd said.

“It has even more meaning knowing our company won for their hard work too, and I’m excited to celebrate alongside them.”

Hayley McMahon

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Volunteer’s shining support of kids with parents in prison Helen Walker-McCready was awarded the 2022 Chariman’s Medal for her volunteering at SHINE for Kids.

Hunter volunteer, Helen WalkerMcCready, has been recognised for her outstanding volunteering efforts after dedicating more than a decade of her time supporting children and young people who have parents in prison.

The Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation has awarded its 2022 Chairman’s Medal to Helen WalkerMcCready, for her volunteering at SHINE for Kids helping young people adapt to life while their parents spend time in Cessnock Correctional Centre.

SHINE for Kids is a national charity supporting children with incarcerated parents from infancy to adulthood.

The organisation works to strengthen their connection to community and family while lessening the trauma and emotional impacts experienced by their parent’s imprisonment.

Walker-McCready said SHINE for Kids enabled her to make a positive impact and difference in the lives of the children.

“It took a while to get to know the children, and they need to trust us too, but now it’s lovely to see them smile,

laugh and play games…which they all love to do,” Walker-McCready said.

“A family came into my work to thank me for everything I had done for them; they said I had made a big difference and provided help when needed.

“You feel that you’ve made a positive impact and difference in their lives… It’s not about you; it’s what you can do for others.”

Along with Walker-McCready’s medal, SHINE for Kids will receive a $5,000 grant from the Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation for volunteer training, development and recognition.

The grant is in addition to the $150,000 SHINE for Kids has received across three previous projects, helping to facilitate the organisation’s work in both the Hunter and NSW Central West.

SHINE for Kids CEO, Julie Hourigan Ruse, said children with an incarcerated parent were the invisible victims of crime, facing many challenges while their parent was imprisoned, including separation, trauma, stigma and poverty.

“Our programs maintain family connection and work with children to navigate an extremely difficult time, ultimately helping break the cycle of intergenerational disadvantage,” said Hourigan Ruse.

“Helen has contributed much to SHINE for Kids during an incredible ten years with us, from setting up play areas and engaging shy children in activities to assisting families during drop-in services.

“Because of this commitment and knowledge, she often takes new volunteers under her wing, guiding them and ensuring our families receive the best possible support.”

Chair of Newcastle Permanent Charitable Foundation, Jennifer Leslie, said National Volunteer Week was the perfect time to acknowledge WalkerMcCready’s contribution to supporting children affected by the criminal justice system.

“Helen’s warmth and ability to connect with people sees the children at SHINE for Kids gravitate to her,” Leslie said.

“When we considered her additional service to the local Salvation Army and her support of Cessnock Rural Fire Service during bushfire season, Helen was a standout choice from a pool of extremely worthy nominees as this year’s winner of the Chairman’s Medal.”

Hayley McMahon

Integrated education for Catholic secondary schools Over the next five years, the Catholic Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle is renewing its approach to schooling, deciding to transition all secondary schools in Newcastle from Year 7 to Year 12.

The Trustees of the Diocese made the choice to transition, which will occur in a staged and planned way, ensuring that it best supports the educational needs and outcomes of students now and into the future.

From 2024, Catholic secondary schools in Newcastle will begin a staged transition from Year 7 to Year 12 schools, including San Clemente High School in Mayfield, St Francis Xavier’s College in Hamilton, and St Pius X High School in Adamstown.

The Director of Catholic Schools in the

Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, Gerard Mowbray, said the Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle was committed to building on all schools’ strong foundations.

“Students learning outcomes and wellbeing has been at the core of this decision making,” Mowbray said.

“In addition, we believe that delivering fully integrated education opportunities will lead to many other benefits, including enhanced learning environments and opportunities for staff.”

The transition of schools to a full Year 7 to Year 12 complement is expected to be completed no later than 2027.

Mowbray said staff, students, families and the wider community are invited to collaborate on the implementation plan to meet the unique needs of each school.

Each school will have dedicated

consultation activities, such as listening assemblies, focus groups, or individual interviews commencing June 2.

More information is available at the

CSO website: www.mn.catholic.edu. au.

Information source: Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

From 2024, Catholic secondary schools in Newcastle will begin a staged transition from Year 7 to Year 12 schools, including St Pius X High School in Adamstown.

Photo: Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle

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Excavations to explore archaeology of Cathedral Park An archaeological dig has kicked off at Newcastle’s oldest European cemetery, delving deeper into the site’s heritage ahead of its planned revitalisation.

Located high on the hill behind Christ Church Cathedral, Cathedral Park is the resting place of more than 3300 of the city’s earliest European inhabitants.

Before settlement, it was the site of an Aboriginal camping ground for thousands of years.

City of Newcastle Manager Regulatory, Planning & Assessment, Michelle Bisson, said the archaeological dig was an essential part of the process to ensure the site’s history was protected and preserved.

“City of Newcastle has engaged the Archaeological Management and Consulting Group (AMAC) to undertake a series of excavations to test for historical, archaeological relics or Aboriginal archaeological objects in areas subject to planned landscaping and heritage interpretation works,” Bisson said.

“This test excavation program will be supervised by Registered Aboriginal Parties (RAPs) from the local community.

“Appropriate safety measures will be put in place by City of Newcastle to ensure the park will remain open to the public for the duration of these archaeological works, which are

required before we can progress with the next stage of the proposed landscaping project.

“The archaeologists on-site are also happy to engage with the public and answer any questions they may have.”

Cathedral Park was used as a burial ground by the penal settlement from 1816 until 1884 and is the final resting place of notable early settlers, including Newcastle’s first Mayor, James Hannell, former Mayor James Kemp and magistrates John Bingle and Major Archibald Clunes Innes.

The 1826 grave of Mary Martin is thought to be the oldest remaining headstone on the site.

Several Aboriginal infants and adults are buried at the cemetery and entered on the burial registers, including the 1860 burial of an Aboriginal man named, Jacky Jacky.

After falling into disrepair, the site was acquired from the Church by City of Newcastle in 1966 to establish a public park.

Since 2012, City of Newcastle has been carrying out several improvement projects as part of a master plan proposal to transform Cathedral Park into a showpiece destination.

The plan is designed to respect the site’s heritage while also making the most of its spectacular views over the city, harbour, and position adjacent to

Guraki Aboriginal Advisory Committee Chairperson Luke Russell, Awabakal Descendants Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Managing Director Peter Leven, City of Newcastle Heritage Planner Tom Smith, City of Newcastle Manager Regulatory, Planning & Assessment Michelle Bisson, AMAC Group Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Director Ben Streat, AMAC Group Principal Director Martin Carney and (front) AMAC Group archaeologist Prue Newton.

the Christ Church Cathedral, attracting upwards of 80,000 visitors each year.

The proposed future landscape and heritage interpretation works will help stabilise the surviving headstone monuments in line with their state heritage significance, recreating the original cemetery layout where possible.

Other plans include the erection of an infant memorial and a monument

remembering the 60 people who died in the Cawarra shipwreck of 1866, 31 of whom were buried on this site.

A rotunda is proposed for the site of ‘Mulimbah’ to acknowledge the former Colonial Georgian style family home and garden built by Simon Kemp in the 1840s and to tell the story of early Novocastrians and their way of life.

Information source: City of Newcastle

City celebrates dedicated volunteers

More than 300 City of Newcastle volunteers were treated to a special morning tea at Fort Scratchley.

Photo: City of Newcastle

City of Newcastle volunteers who have assisted the community through environmental, museum and art gallery programs have been recognised for their hard work and dedication over the past 12 months.

Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, more than 300 volunteers were treated to a special morning tea at Fort Scratchley on May 20, appreciating the countless hours they’ve dedicated to the city.

Deputy Lord Mayor, Declan Clausen, said City of Newcastle was fortunate to

have hundreds of selfless volunteers who contributed to building and strengthening the community.

“On behalf of the City of Newcastle, I’d like to thank all of our volunteers for their incredible contributions to our city,” Cr Clausen said.

“We are recognising and acknowledging the work they do across Newcastle, whether they are helping out at our facilities, assisting at events, sharing their expertise in a community group, or caring for our precious native wildlife and the natural environment.

“The theme for National Volunteer Week 2022 is ‘better together’, and this

certainly rings true in Newcastle as we work together for the betterment of our community.”

Newcastle volunteers lend their time, knowledge and skills at council facilities and various locations across the city, including Newcastle Libraries, Newcastle Museum, Newcastle Art Gallery, Fort Scratchley, Civic Playhouse and Landcare sites.

They provide support to ensure the success of major events such as the New Annual festival and contribute their knowledge and expertise to committees and community groups throughout the year.

Ron Stanton, who swapped his newfound retirement in 2014 for volunteer guide work at Newcastle Art Gallery, was among those who attended the morning tea.

“Frankly, I knew very little about art when I started out as a guide seven years ago, but I had a curiosity to learn more about art, and the opportunity presented itself,” Stanton said.

“The personal reward has been in learning and then guiding visitors on their own voyage of art appreciation and discovery.”

He revealed that despite the temporary closure of Newcastle Art Gallery during its expansion, his volunteer team have continued to meet, learn, plan and explore social media pathways and prepare for the re-opening.

“The first volunteer guides started at Newcastle Art Gallery 50 years ago,” Stanton said.

“The expansion presents a new chapter and fresh opportunity for volunteer guides, the city and, most importantly, for the visitor.

“It’s nice to be able to be a part of that.”

Local woman, Sue Milles, who volunteers at Blackbutt Reserve kiosk, said what started as a six-week trial turned into 26 years of service caring for wildlife and assisting visitors.

“A love of animals brought me to Blackbutt Reserve, and I fell in love with the place instantly,” Milles said.

“I was recovering from a serious illness at the time, and it gave me a reason to get out of bed in the morning.”

While Milles started out feeding animals, weeding gardens and cleaning animal enclosures, she now volunteers at the kiosk two days per week.

She said the job allows her to talk to visitors about the wildlife at the reserve and share information on key visitor attractions such as feeding times.

“It’s wonderful to see tourists starting to return since the start of the pandemic, particularly international tourists,” Milles said.

“Yesterday, I was chatting to a couple from England and a man from Poland…

I just love who I get to meet whilst volunteering.”

City of Newcastle is accepting expressions of interest for new volunteering opportunities on its website.

Maia O’Connor

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Charlestown school top of region for learning outcomes Since commencing at Charlestown South Public School 10 years ago, Principal Colin Johnson and his team of educators have transformed the school into the highest performing primary school in the Hunter Region.

The reputation took years to forge, and Johnson said appealing to local families when he commenced his tenure was key to establishing a strong school community.

“When I got here, we had 72 per cent of out-of-zone students, so all our inzone kids were going somewhere else – I wanted to turn that around quickly,” Johnson said.

“We wanted to make our school attractive so local people wouldn’t want to go anywhere else.

“Every two years, I letter-box dropped every house in the zone with postcards to encourage local families back to the school … I knocked on some doors, talked to parents in their front yards and talked about our local school and what would attract their kids.”

Johnson’s method worked; currently, in-zone students account for 85 per cent of Charlestown South Public School’s population.

Johnson said in 2014, the school’s focus shifted to how they approached teaching strategies and methods.

“We did our research, and while we found we were teaching well, the skills and education wasn’t being transferred from the kids’ short-term memory into their long-term memory,” he said.

“We’d teach kids about changing fractions, and they’d be brilliant at it … however, six months later, they’d ask if they had learned any of it.”

Johnson said the school researched proven learning strategies and discovered the Explicit Instruction Pedagogy by John Fleming.

Explicit instruction operates by an ‘I do, we do, you do’ model, where a

template guides teachers to impart key skills to students in a way that stresses involvement in their education.

This is so they understand how they are being taught and can reflect on their learning.

“We found the highest performing school in the nation used it and had outperformed others in NAPLAN by far,” Johnson said.

“I realised that it was similar to my philosophy on how to teach and how to learn.”

Proof in the pudding Now using the explicit instruction method, every class at Charlestown South starts the morning with a 15 minute literacy warmup and a math warmup for another 15 minutes after lunch.

Students also partake in a writing warmup that covers four days, which implements a gradual release of information and how to write quality.

Johnson said the proof was in the pudding.

“Our guinea pigs were the ones who started Kindergarten in 2015,” he said.

“So,when they arrived in Year 3 for NAPLAN, it was our test to determine if what we were doing was working.

“Suddenly, our results went through the roof – we thought they’d made a mistake on the MySchools website.”

Johnson said that the state average was around 40 per cent of kids in the top two bands in many subjects.

At Charlestown South, 80 to 90 per cent of students reached the top two bands.

“A few years ago, 100 per cent of our Year 3 kids were in the top two bands for reading …we’ve had no child in the bottom two bands for three or four years,” Johnson said.

“We’re proving explicit instruction works.”

Principal Colin Johnson of Charlestown South Public School is the third generation principal in his family.

A proven model of success In 2021, the Department of Education developed the School Success Model, which sought 10 high performing schools across NSW to function as Ambassador Schools.

Charlestown South Public School was among them.

Johnson and the other principals form part of an advisory board and recently met with NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet, and Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell, to discuss how to lift student outcomes statewide.

Charlestown South Public School has 11 classes from Kindergarten to Year 7.

Johnson said education was not purely about academics and knowledge but a holistic approach.

“One of our strengths is our collaboration and the sense of team,” Johnson said.

“Even casual teachers comment on how unique our school is and how engaged our students are; it’s our high academic expectations.

“We have high expectations of uniform students wear, how they behave, how they interrelate… we’re trying to create those quality citizens.”

Johnson added that Charlestown South Public School offered many opportunities for the students to be generous with their time and help others.

“Our community love being involved and trusts us implicitly,” he said.

“I often say we’re not the experts… we just strive to keep growing.”

Maia O’Connor

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Local families reunited with lost film decades later Via Facebook, Trevor managed to get in touch with two families connected to the lost film.

A Hunter man has reunited families with their long-lost home movies after purchasing a box of old projector film equipment at an auction nearly 30 years ago.

Trevor Dare said he purchased the box around 25 years ago at a Cardiff auction purely for the empty spools and a film splicer he’d been seeking.

“I grabbed what I wanted from the auction, put the box in the garage, and forgot about it,” Trevor said.

“25 years later, I was going through the garage and thought I better see what else was in the box and to my surprise, there were 30 to 40 small and large reels within.

“I converted a few to see what was on them, and I couldn’t believe what I was watching… they were family home movies from the 1940s, 50s, 60s and 70s.”

While Trevor said he only paid around $10 to $15 for the box, the footage he uncovered had been priceless for some Hunter residents.

Trevor said two local families had been recognised in the footage after his wife, Wendy, suggested he upload the

footage to the Lost Newcastle Facebook page.

“I got a message from Paul Woolf who said that it was of his family…he came over and couldn’t believe what he was seeing as he had nothing of his history,” Trevor said.

“One of the larger reels was a trip his parents did in the 50s by boat to Europe…his grandparents from England were on one of the films and other relations he’d never seen.

“To say he was over the moon is an understatement.”

Another local woman, Sharon James, also got in touch.

“Sharon wasn’t on Facebook, but her friend saw the footage and got her to contact me,” Trevor said.

“She’s coming over next week to collect the reels…she said she was only 12 years old in the two videos that I put up on the Lost Newcastle Facebook page.

“She’s in her early 60s now, and she can’t believe it.”

Sharon James said she was amazed at the recovered content when she first watched the footage.

“I was so shocked and excited to see they were of my family and me,” she said.

“My Dad took the films of me from the day I was born … we had a Kombi van and went on many holidays in it.

“I was born in 1960, so that was many years ago now … the people in it are my Grandmother and my Dad’s sister, her husband and their children.”

She said the film was taken in Newcastle at her family’s home in Kahibah.

“I can’t believe how lucky I am to have found these films,” she said.

“All the older family in the films and my Dad have passed away now.

“These are precious memories for me.”

Trevor said it was just a drop in the ocean of footage he was yet to convert.

He has been developing film for over 40 years and said he didn’t always have luck when copying footage.

“I’ve always converted VHS video, camcorder tapes, slides, photos and the like for the family,” Trevor said.

“My Uncle had a lot of 8mm film, and I tried to convert them with not much luck, so I was on a mission to work out

the best way.

“After many tries, I finally got to where it looks great, and I’m happy with the results.”

The laborious process of developing film includes taking a photo of every frame, which is 20 frames for every second of footage.

Trevor said the frames are then stitched together to make the movie, taking around an hour to recover three minutes of footage.

Despite being a long process, it was nevertheless rewarding for him.

“It gives me great satisfaction to bring life back to old films for people.”

Trevor said people should convert their old films while they still could before they fade away.

“It’s now 60 years since most reels were filmed…they don’t last forever, and it’s best to digitise them as soon as possible,” he said.

“I’ve had some films that look great at the start, and then they fade to nothing … so don’t leave it for another day.

“Memories are very precious.”

Maia O’Connor

Sharon James, pictured second from the left, was filmed with her cousins and grandmother.

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Walking tours set to educate, explore and excite Local walking tour business, Newcastle Afoot, has announced the launch of a new school education program providing immersive student tours that explore Newcastle’s rich history, geography and visual arts.

The learning experience has been developed with the support of a major sponsor, Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC), which plays a key role in delivering revitalisation projects across the city.

The new experiences will include hands-on dress-up activities that students complete on their walking tour, helping them imagine themselves as convicts or key people in history.

With the HCCDC sponsorship, Newcastle Afoot has also recruited an excursions program coordinator to consult with schools and ensure students can meet important syllabus outcomes.

Additionally, the introduction of the new program comes a change for a new meeting place for Newcastle Afoot tours.

A colourful ground mural has been painted by bystreet streetartist, artist, Inari Inari, Meyers, at The at Station The Station in in Newcastle NewcastleEast, East, exploring Newcastle’s culture and history.

Director of Newcastle Afoot, Becky Kiil, said they were proud to create fun and informative primary and high school excursions that would help teachers meet student learning outcomes.

“This is a great city to explore on foot with its unique history, colourful street art, heritage spaces and stunning waterfront,” Kiil said.

“With the city’s transformation continuing, it’s only getting better.

“We think Newcastle is just as unique as The Rocks in Sydney in its value to learning about Australia, our history and how we are changing.

“We envision this city becoming the preferred excursion location for schools from our region and beyond.”

Chief Executive of the HCCDC, Valentina Misevska, said they were excited to be a part of the initiative.

“We’re thrilled to support this fantastic education initiative and congratulate Newcastle Afoot on developing this innovative program,” Misevska said.

Newcastle Afoot is celebrating its fifth birthday by adding the excursions program to their regular business of walking tours, corporate events, scavenger hunts and placemaking events.

A colourful ground mural has been painted by street artist, Inari, at The Station in Newcastle East, exploring Newcastle’s culture and history.

Hayley McMahon

Photo: Wiltliving Photography

Red Cross volunteer Paula, with participants Charles and Dianne.

Local walking tour business, Newcastle Afoot, has announced the launch of a new school education program providing immersive student tours that explore Newcastle’s rich history, geography and visual arts.

The learning experience has been developed with the support of a major sponsor, Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation (HCCDC), which plays a key role in delivering revitalisation projects across the city.

The new experiences will include hands-on dress-up activities that students complete on their walking tour, helping them imagine themselves as convicts or key people in history.

With the HCCDC sponsorship, Newcastle Afoot has also recruited an excursions program coordinator to consult with schools and ensure students can meet important syllabus outcomes.

Additionally, the introduction of the new program comes a change for a new meeting place for Newcastle Afoot tours.

A colourful ground mural has been painted by street artist, Inari Meyers, at The Station in Newcastle East, exploring Newcastle’s culture and history.

Director of Newcastle Afoot, Becky Kiil, said they were proud to create fun

and informative primary and high school excursions that would help teachers meet student learning outcomes.

“This is a great city to explore on foot with its unique history, colourful street art, heritage spaces and stunning waterfront,” Kiil said.

“With the city’s transformation continuing, it’s only getting better.

“We think Newcastle is just as unique as The Rocks in Sydney in its value to learning about Australia, our history and how we are changing.

“We envision this city becoming the preferred excursion location for schools from our region and beyond.”

Chief Executive of the HCCDC, Valentina Misevska, said they were excited to be a part of the initiative.

“We’re thrilled to support this fantastic education initiative and congratulate Newcastle Afoot on developing this innovative program,” Misevska said.

Newcastle Afoot is celebrating its fifth birthday by adding the excursions program to their regular business of walking tours, corporate events, scavenger hunts and placemaking events.

Hayley McMahon

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Newcastle Music Festival returns

Christ Church Camerata performs Saturday, July 30 and Sunday, August 14.

Photo: Photolook Newcastle

Inspiring sopranos, prodigy pianists and guest musicians will perform at a series of concerts during the Newcastle Music Festival, soon returning to the city.

While the Newcastle Music Festival was conceived in 2016 to support and showcase local acts, festival spokesperson, Jillian Albrecht, said it had evolved to become a destination for national and international performers.

“The festival has shown a local audience that loves classical music and performers,” she said.

“Providing an opportunity for Newcastle-based musicians to work with people from capital cities, interstate and overseas is a huge bonus because it’s not always easy to break into the music world.”

Albrecht said this year was a chance to re-book musicians who could not perform during 2020 and 2021 due to the pandemic.

“We’re trying to give those performers who missed out on the opportunity to perform, so we’re running an additional weekend to what we would normally do.”

The Newcastle Music Festival will officially commence on July 29 and run until August 14; however, an additional weekend of events has been added on June 3 and 4.

Among performances at this year’s festival will be Alicia Crossley, who specialises in commissioning works on a soprano recorder to a metre long recorder.

Acacia Quartet will also be performing at the music festival on June 3 from 7.30

pm at the Adamstown Uniting Church.

Performing at renowned locations like the Sydney Opera House and recording 12 albums, the string quartet have previously earned a nomination for an APRA-AMCOS Art Music Award for Excellence.

Audiences will also be treated to Australian pianist, Tamara-Anna Cislowska, a child prodigy who first performed when she was three.

While Albrecht said the festival focused on classical music, she insisted that the concerts on offer appealed to a wide range of genres and audiences.

“We lead many festivals by offering sensory concerts for people with specific needs who find it difficult to sit still or quiet during a concert,” Albrecht said.

“Grace Kim, the founder of Your Music Inc, has created a wonderful series of concerts that only run for about 45 minutes for children or anybody who finds they like a more relaxed concert atmosphere.

“She has an autistic son, and she realised it was challenging to take children who had specific sensory needs to ordinary concerts.”

The specifically designed sensory concerts encourage audience participation where people can march, walk and dance around to fun and interesting types of music.

Albrecht said the Newcastle Music Festival would also host a free competition with young pianists, cellists and violinists.

“Every year, the Music Teachers Association of Newcastle runs a scholarship competition to support young performers,” she said.

“It will take place on Saturday, August

6, with one session held at Christ Church Cathedral in the morning and one at Adamstown Uniting Church in the afternoon.”

The festival fixture Albrecht said she looked forward to the most was a concert titled Toasting Mother Earth.

“It’s the name of a poem by local writer, Derek Dowding, who lives along Lake Macquarie,” she said.

“He was asked by our artistic consultant and one of the festival founders, Ross Fiddes, to write a piece of work about climate change.

“He’s written this moving poem set to music… he has also asked the amazing Australian soprano, Anna Fraser, to premiere this work.”

The performance will be accompanied by pianist, Jack Symonds, and will be a world premiere.

In previous years, she said the attending audience had been of an older demographic.

“There isn’t that much on offer in Newcastle for older people, so we love

that the festival provides an opportunity for people over 50 to get out and enjoy beautiful music,” Albrecht said.

“We have many young people in Newcastle learning instruments, and they love coming to the concerts because they can see that in a few years, there’s an opportunity for them to become performers as well.”

Albrecht encouraged Novocastrians to come along and promised there would be something for everyone to enjoy.

“The festival is a volunteer-run festival,” she said.

“We’re not-for-profit, and we do depend on our local audiences to come out and support us.

“We really do not need to look beyond our Newcastle talent base for fantastic music to be performed.”

Tickets for the Newcastle Music Festival are available online, and for those who book before May 31, 10 per cent will be discounted from their ticket price.

Maia O’Connor

The Acacia Quartet will perform June 3 and 4.

Photo: Holly Bradford

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P21

27 MAY 2022 ISSUE 018

OVOCASTRIAN

Newcastle venue champions people over profit

Owners, Lukas Thodas and John Elsley, purchased The Grand Hotel last year.

Gaming machines have become a relic of the past at The Grand Hotel after new owners, Lukas Thodas and John Elsley, removed the machines and restored the pub to its former social glory.

Six electronic gaming machines were removed from The Grand Hotel, with Elsley revealing that it was a step towards transforming the venue for the better.

“We had an opportunity to purchase the pub with or without machines, and we chose the without option,” he said.

“We want to make the Grand what a pub should be—we feel pubs have been somewhat trashed by machines and turned into gaming halls rather than what they should be, which is somewhere to get together and spend time with friends and family.”

Elsley said the decision came from an inherent sense of social responsibility.

“We’re in a spot that’s pretty vulnerable to the community, being across the road from the police station and the family law court,” Elsley said.

“So making one less venue without machines was important to us.

“As it’s not a very big pub, we thought to have gaming here destroys the venue…it takes a whole section of the pub that’s really unusable that was focused wholly on gaming, so we were happy to see them go.”

For Elsley, who has worked in the hospitality industry for 12 years, gaming had never been a priority during his management experience.

“I’ve run a few other venues in town that don’t have gaming—it’s never

been a big focus for us, and I know business can be done without them,” he said.

“The Grand is in a unique position, too, as it has nice hotel rooms upstairs that help ease the pain.”

For co-owner, Thodas, who has 22 years of hospitality experience, the decision was a no-brainer for the wider social good.

“I’ve worked in pubs with gaming and have seen how it affects families… I’ve also had some personal friends who’ve done it tough by playing machines,” Thodas said.

While they were confident with their decision, Thodas admitted that removing the machines had taken a hit on venue earnings.

“It’s hard to put an exact number on it, but gaming is substantial to your bottom line,” he said.

“Gaming generally hits straight at your net profit rather than your top line, and there’s no cost of goods or anything like that involved.”

In the NSW Liquor and Gaming’s BiAnnual Report for hotel gaming machines, the combined net profit of 886 electronic gaming machines across 58 premises in Newcastle between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021, was $22,336,625 million.

In net profit, the Winner’s Circle in Wallsend was the top-ranked hotel in the LGA, sitting at 148 in the state.

Hotel Elermore was ranked second at 168, Hotel Jesmond ranked 187, the Stag and Hunter Hotel in Mayfield were ranked 277, and the Sydney Junction Hotel in Hamilton ranked 302.

The Grand Hotel ranked 1139 in the state out of 1249 venues with gaming licences—renovations at the premise during the period impacted gaming revenue.

Despite the financial hit, Thodas and Elsley, said the Newcastle community responded positively to the scrapping of the machines, with many attending the hotel in a show of support.

“Removing the machines has been received really well…we had a lot of people come in who were first-time visitors or who hadn’t been back to the hotel for many years,” Thodas said.

“A lot of people commended us and had dinner and drinks to see what we’re doing with the hotel moving forward.”

He said he was confident they could

restore The Grand Hotel to its former glory.

“We wanted to buy a pub in the CBD that was going to be run by people in Newcastle— most of the pubs in town are owned by large Sydney groups,” Thodas said.

“We’re Newcastle boys, and the hotel is somewhere we went when we were 18, so when things changed 10 or so years ago with restrictions, the hotel fell off the radar as a place to go.”

He said when The Grand Hotel was listed on the market, they knew it was the perfect opportunity for the venue to be restored to its previous reputation.

“We’re trying to bring back the former glory of the Underground and make it a family-friendly pub in the middle of town,” Thodas said.

The duo purchased the venue in September 2021 for a reported $6 million after career hotelier and longterm owner, Mike Angus, who owned and operated it since 1988 retired from the industry.

Elsley said the new team would strive to deliver quality old-fashioned service, with their “Underground” renovations set to be complete by early June and upstairs renovations complete by August.

“The Underground will be an underground whiskey and cocktail bar with live music as much as we possibly can … we’ll have a weekly Jazz night too,” Elsley said.

“Upstairs, we want to keep a traditional pub we feel there are not many left in town… it’ll focus on food, drinks and quality service.

“We look forward to changing the offering and trying to step things up a bit.”

Maia O’Connor

All renovations at The Grand Hotel are set to be complete by August.

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P23

27 MAY 2022 ISSUE 018

OVOSPORT

Trampoline Centre of Excellence springs to life in Glendale Glendale is set to become the home of elite trampolining in Australia after the NSW Government approved a $12.5 million grant to build a new Trampoline Centre of Excellence.

The state-of-the-art facility is expected to open in early 2025, complementing the $25.7 million expansion of the Hunter Sports Centre, co-funded by Lake Macquarie City Council and the Federal Government, making it one of the country’s premier multi-sport training venues.

Lake Macquarie Mayor, Kay Fraser, said the announcement was a windfall for the city and the wider Hunter region.

“The new Trampoline Centre of Excellence will be up there with the world’s best venues for the sport,” she said.

“It will mean we can not only attract and train Australia’s best up-andcoming athletes right here in Lake Mac, but we can host national and international trampolining competitions.”

A 1500sqm arena with nine trampolines, two tumbling strips, two double minitrampolines, a foam pit, warm-up areas and seating for 450 spectators are among the centre’s features.

Council’s contribution will provide for a major redevelopment of the site,

including a three-storey sports and community centre and a 24-hour gym.

The NSW Government will contribute $12.5 million from its Centre of Excellence Fund, which aims to improve talent pathways and community engagement across all sporting codes.

Minister for Tourism and Sport, Stuart Ayres, said that NSW would become the nation’s centre of excellence for talent development and identification through the program.

“The six projects that have been successful in securing funding will be focal points for the development of the next generation of stars across Olympic, Paralympic and professional sports,” Ayres said.

“Each new and upgraded centre raises the bar for high-performance training facilities, and will assist in developing our next generation of sporting stars.”

The new centre, which has the backing of Gymnastics NSW, is likely to play a pivotal role for local and international teams in preparation for the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.

The centre will also cater to other aerial sports training and career pathways.

It will also generate more than $2.5 million a year in visitor revenue from athletes, support staff, families and spectators travelling from outside the Hunter.

The Hunter Sports Centre at Glendale will host the new Trampoline Centre of Excellence.

Hunter Sports Centre General Manager, Colin Southworth, said the redevelopment was “a game-changer” for the precinct.

“That’s all the way from grassroots participation to high performance,” he said.

Lake Macquarie has a rich history in the sport of trampolining, including former World Champion, Brett Austine, Tokyo 2021 Olympian, Jessica Pickering, and brothers, Ty and Shaun Swadling.

“We will focus on female development in sport and recreation and increase the number of people participating in regular programmed activities,”

Southworth said.

He added the Trampoline Centre of Excellence would reap major economic benefits to Lake Macquarie.

“Coupled with the current works, this announcement plays a critical component in maximising the benefits of Council’s master plan for the sport and community precinct,” he said.

A detailed design of the new centre is underway.

A separate warm-up and athlete testing facility will also be built in the project’s second stage.

Maia O’Connor

Orienteering series comes to Newcastle

Kasimir Gregory, a member of the Newcastle Orienteering Club won the senior men’s category in the World Maze Race and beat participants from 35 countries.

The Saturday Orienteering Series has returned to Newcastle with newcomers and seasoned orienteers being called to join in on the navigational fun.

Conducted by outdoor recreation company, Bold Horizons, in association with the Newcastle Orienteering Club, the Saturday Orienteering Series offers

a handful of courses that appeal to all ages, held until June 25.

Orienteering is a sport in which athletes use a map and their wits to visit set checkpoints to complete their course.

Participants can plan their own route through the checkpoints, embracing the challenge and taking their time to navigate, while others can choose to

race against the clock and record the best time.

Bold Horizons owner, Barbara Hill, said that while the sport was a fantastic exercise and very social, it was also a great way to spend some time outdoors.

“Orienteering is tremendously enjoyable and rewarding,” Hill said.

“Regular participation can develop and maintain critical thinking skills, selfconfidence, resilience and independence.

“Personal growth and the development of life-long skills can happen without you even realising.”

The series kicked off on May 14, with an event held nearly every Saturday until June 25, all hosted at different schools around Newcastle.

Newcastle Saturday Orienteering Series events are: • May 28 – Hunter School of the Performing Arts (World Maze Race) • June 4 – Lambton High School • June 18 – Merewether High School • June 25 – Callaghan College Jesmond/Heaton Public School “Each Saturday morning, participants can start any time between 9:30 and 11 am and expect to spend around 90 minutes at each event,” Hill said.

“No special equipment is needed;

competitors just need to come along ready for a run or walk and help will be on hand to assist newcomers.

“These events are a great way for people to get active and explore their local area in a very enjoyable way.”

The May 28 event at the Hunter School of the Performing Arts will incorporate a maze as part of the World Maze Race initiative.

The World Maze Race is held worldwide where the exact same maze and course are set up simultaneously in cities around the world, including London, New York, Beijing, Paris and Sydney.

Last year, a local member of the Newcastle Orienteering Club, Kasimir Gregory, was the overall winner of the senior men category in the 2021 World O Maze Race.

His time of one minute and 13 seconds was the quickest worldwide.

Almost 1000 athletes carried out the 142-metre long maze race all over the world, with 97 events in 35 countries registered.

Saturday Orienteering Series event registration is preferred via the Bold Horizons website, with entry from $10 to $15 per person.

Hayley McMahon

MAY 2022 OVOSPORT 27 ISSUE 018

P24

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Adamstown soccer team pushes for better mental health

First-grade fullback Drew Grierson, Hunter Lifeline CEO Rob Sams and reserve-grade centre back, Nick Pettiford, are all participating in this year’s challenge.

The Men’s NPL football club, Adamstown Rosebud, is participating in The Push-Up Challenge, helping to raise some much-needed funds and pushing for better mental health in the community.

Lifeline Australia is one of the beneficiaries of this year’s The Push Up Challenge, founded by The Push for Better Foundation.

Adamstown Rosebud’s first and reserve grade players have formed three teams who, from June 1, will attempt to complete 3,139 push-ups over 24 days while raising funds for Lifeline Hunter.

Lifeline Hunter CEO, Rob Sams, thanked the club and its players for their efforts in promoting good mental health within the community.

“Every dollar Adamstown Rosebud raises during the challenge will go to local suicide prevention services and support,” Sams said.

“The 3,139 push-ups isn’t a random number…that is how many Australians died by suicide in 2020; suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians between the ages of 15 and 44.

“We’re experiencing more demand for crisis support and our free face to face and online counselling… so, now more than ever, we’re relying on local

community donations and fundraising to be there to listen to local people and to give them hope.”

Adamstown Rosebud reserve-grade centre back and one of the push-up challenge team captains, Nick Pettiford, said it was important to prioritise mental health as it played a role in every person’s life.

“It’s really important to take care of your mental health and seek help when needed,” the 18-year old said.

“There is a statistic from the Australian Department of Health that states that half of Australian adults will face some form of mental health issue.

“Many go through these mental health challenges and are too scared to speak about it or seek the help they truly need.

“This is a huge reason why we have decided to participate in The Push-Up Challenge and team up with Lifeline… we want to get rid of that stigma and encourage people who are doing it tough to reach out for help, reminding them that they aren’t alone.”

According to Lifeline Hunter, more than 65,000 Australians make a suicide attempt each year, and nine Australians die every day by suicide, 75 per cent of which are male.

Pettiford said over 30 of the Adamstown Rosebud players had split

up into three teams to create some friendly competition.

“It’s a different number of push-ups every day…it could be 50 one day and 250 the next,” Pettiford said.

“This reflects the ups and downs of mental health and how some days can be more challenging than others.

“Even though we are in separate teams, we encourage each other and work towards the same goal.”

Pettiford said there were various ways that people could prioritise their own mental health.

“Getting 30 minutes of exercise a day, going outside for a walk, eating nourishing meals and joining a local team-based environment to get that social aspect really helps,” he said.

“I think the most important thing is talking about it and getting those feelings off your chest.

“Lifeline offers a brilliant 24/7 call service which is open to anyone free of charge…I would 100 per cent recommend this to anyone who needs someone to talk to.”

Adamstown Rosebud has also partnered with youth mental health organisation, headspace, to provide mental health awareness resources and support to players and coaches.

It is helping headspace to develop and pilot a coaching resource to incorporate

mental health awareness and skills during training sessions.

To support one of the Adamstown Rosebud teams or take up the challenge and support Lifeline Hunter, visit www. thepushupchallenge.com.au/ beneficiary/Lifeline-Hunter-NSW. Lifeline support: • Telephone: 13 11 14 • Lifeline Text: 0477 13 11 14 • Chat online: www.lifeline.org.au • Free counselling (face to face or online): 1300 152 854 or lifelinehunter. org.au Hayley McMahon

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