The Local - April 2026

Serving th e communit y since 201 4

Like us on Facebook or go to www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au for more news • Issue No 141 • Newcastle’s favourite little community newspaper • April 2026 •

Who’s next lord mayor?

There may be six candidates vying for the position but most would agree that the by-election for a new lord mayor of Newcastle, on Saturday 18 April, will come down to one of two candidates in the end.

Will fourth term Councillor Declan Clausen return the mayoralty to Labor control?

Or will independent candidate, former NBN news and weather presenter Gavin Morris prevail, maintaining the political make-up of the Council chamber as set at the 2024 Local Government Elections?

The by-election has come about due to the resignation of Dr Ross Kerridge in February for health reasons.

Independent Gavin Morris

See inside, pages 13-15, for profiles of all six of the candidates.

Labor’s Declan Clausen

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LOCAL

Matters All editorial, advertising and distribution enquiries to Mark Brooker by email: mark@ hunterlocal.com.au or ph 0455 210 000 Mail: PO Box 130 Jesmond, 2299 Founder & publisher: Mark Brooker

Advertising bookings for May issue will close on Thursday 16 April The Local is lovingly produced then carefully hand delivered each and every month to more than 11,000 residential letterboxes and businesses in Lambton, North Lambton, New Lambton, New Lambton Heights, Broadmeadow, Hamilton North, Jesmond and Kotara.

You can find back issues of The Local and check out the latest community news and information at: www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au or on our Facebook page @thelocalnewcastle. If you enjoy receiving The Local in your letterbox each month please support the businesses you see advertising on these pages. Without their support your local paper could not and would not happen. Pretty simple really...

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Page 2 > The Local > April 2026

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

But where do I vote?

Here is quick a run down on how and where you can cast your vote in this month’s by-election for lord mayor of Newcastle.

Prepoll voting is available from Saturday 11 April through until Friday 17 April (excluding Sunday) at New Lambton Community Centre, Adamstown Senior Citizens Centre, St Lukes Church Wallsend, Mayfield Church of Christ, Newcastle City Hall and Fletcher Community Centre.

On by-election day, Saturday 18 April, there will be 45 different polling places available across Newcastle. Handiest to most readers of The Local will be either Callaghan College - Jesmond Senior Campus, Hamilton North Public School, Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre, Lambton High School, Lambton Public School, New Lambton Community Centre, New Lambton South Public School or St Therese’s Primary School New Lambton.

If you are unable to make it to a prepoll or polling day venue you can apply for a postal vote. Eligibility criteria apply. To apply go to: https://elections. n sw.g ov.a u /e l e c t i o n s/ l o ca l - g ove r n m e ntelections/2026-city-of-newcastle-council-lordmayor-by-election before applications close on Monday 13 April.

If you do not vote in an election that you were eligible for, and you don’t have a valid reason, the NSW Electoral Commission will send you an ‘Apparent failure to vote notice’ in the post. The penalty for not voting is a $55 fine.

So get out there on Saturday 18 April, buy up big on the cake stall, enjoy a democracy sausage and save yourself money by voting!

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local ANZAC services Lambton - New Lambton RSL sub-Branch will hold a number of services around our local suburbs to commemorate ANZAC Day on Saturday 25 April.

The main remembrance service will be held on the lawns outside Lambton Park War Memorial Swimming Centre.

The traditional march will form up at Club Lambton on Karoola Rd at 10.30am and step-off at 10.45am.

The march will finish at Lambton Pool and be followed by the main service, from 11am on the Swimming Centre steps.

This year the service will again be led by the school captains from Lambton High School.

Other shorter services in The Local’s readership area include the dawn commemoration service at the War Memorial Gates in New Lambton Park on Hobart Rd (opposite Wests New Lambton) at 6.45am and another at the Lambton Park War Memorial gates on Morehead St at 9.30am.

Residents are invited to pay respect to our servicemen and servicewomen at these or any other services around the city.

For more information please email lambton-new-lambtonSB@rslnsw. org.au

The catafalque party at the Lambton Park war memorial gates on ANZAC Day

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Business backs Tour de Cure

Catherine Bailey of Lambton, second from right, recently cycled 300km raising funds in the Tour de Cure, pictured with local business people who donated prizes

Local woman Catherine Bailey recently cycled more than 300 kilometres over three days in the Tour de Cure to raising awareness and vital funds for cancer research and support.

Tour de Cure directs funds into research, prevention and support programs, helping improve outcomes for individuals and families affected by the disease.

With nearly one in every two Australians diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, this is vital research.

A number of generous Lambton businesses including Sento Club Pilates Studio, Dulcie & Mac, The Craft Butcher, Lambton Park Hotel, Piggots Pharmacy and Celebrations donated prizes and vouchers to support Catherine’s Tour de Cure fundraising.

“Thank you to all who generously contributed to this worthwhile cause and helped make a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer.” Catherine said.

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Landslip assistance

One of the evacuated properties at Russell Road New Lambton

The NSW Government will provide additional financial support to residents impacted by the New Lambton landslip, ensuring families have housing security while long-term recovery options are considered.

From May the NSW Reconstruction Authority will provide funding for eligible residents directly impacted by the landslip to assist with alternative accommodation for up to 12 months.

The funding will allow residents to remain in alternative accommodation while the City of Newcastle and the NSW Reconstruction Authority explore potential long-term steps for the site, following the release recently of the geotechnical report and engineering assessments into the landslip.

Minister for Recovery Janelle Saffin said in a statement “Safety and certainty are two of the most important things people crave after a disaster. This rental assistance will take the immediate pressure off New Lambton residents while we work alongside them and the City of Newcastle on the next steps for recovery.”

“There is no quick fix, but we’re committed to sitting at the table with the community and Council and to navigate these challenges together.” Minister Saffin add.

The May 2025 event, which impacted 16 homes in Russell Road, Victoria Street, Baker Street and Portland Place, is the largest residential landslip in Australia’s history.

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The Local > April 2026 > Page 5

Letters to Community awaits final buzzer The consultants for the Newcastle Basketball Association have again asked for an extension to respond to submissions – their third. One can only assume they’re struggling to shoot down the bleeding obvious problems raised by both the community and the Department of Planning.

The rest of us mere spectators were given about six weeks to read, digest and respond to the amended proposal. Apparently, in this game the shot clock only applies to the public.

But we are still only at half-time. Even if the Planning Department calls a foul, the consultants

will dribble the proposal down the court to the Independent Planning Commission for another play.

Independent? That might depend on who’s blowing the whistle.

In the meantime, the community remains in the bleachers, watching the ball being passed around and wondering if the final buzzer will ever sound — and whether a more appropriate site will finally be found.

Hilary Oliver- New Lambton

A rider’s thoughts on e-bikes

I have read with interest the articles on e-bikes in the last two issues of The Local.

As I said to Mark Brooker over a coffee recently, why is it when politicians get involved in an issue they just make it more complicated?

I personally ride a motor bike, a motor scooter and an e-bike. The e-bike’s speed and assistance is limited and only helps according to how much effort I put in. I am only telling you this so that you don’t think that I am just an anti e-bike person.

Now to ride my scooter or motor bike I had two pass a test to gain a licence. The two of these need to be registered and have compulsory third party insurance. If I don’t have these things I am fined and there is the potential to lose my licence.

Now this is not really complicated.

A motor bike or motor scooter is just a bike with a motor. An electric bike is exactly the same Page 6 > The Local > April 2026

but with an electric motor. So why not use the current road laws? If your bike or scooter etc is driven by a motor, petrol or electric you have to pass a test to be able to ride it. The test also incorporates learning the road rules. Speed

limits need to be applied as the standard of brakes etc on many of these e-bikes are not up to the standards that registered bikes and scooters have to adhere to. Even the tyres you fit to these road registered bikes have to be up to a standard laid down by

government guidelines.

People wishing to travel around our cities and road systems would then be on “P” plates with staged abilities according to tests they have passed and therefore would eventually be licensed.

This may be a limited licence but would or could lead to gaining a motor scooter or motor bike licence. At present it’s just plain crazy that people of any age with no training or road sense or skills are allowed on the busy roads at all.

Is it any wonder so many young people in particular end up injured or maimed for life?

The number of pillions should also be limited. If I have two pillions on my motor scooter or bike I am instantly fined with a loss of points. I have seen e-bikes with four people on board.

Crazy stuff.

Bob McElhenny - New Lambton

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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Is your letterbox feeling lucky?

If one of the letterboxes pictured above is yours, you’ve won a $25 shopping voucher from a selection of great local retailers. Text Mark at The Local on 0455 210 000 by 17 April to claim your prize.

There are two $25 vouchers for Elders Lane Fruit & Flowers, one for fruit and veg and one for flowers, and a $25 voucher for Q’s Books at Hamilton to

choose from. First in gets first choice of vouchers.

Vouchers must be claimed by 17 April and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 31 May 2026.

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NEWCASTLE needs

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VOTE

Independent for

NEWCASTLE LORD MAYOR ON SATURDAY 18 APRIL City of Newcastle

ELECTION OF LORD MAYOR Held on 18 April 2026

O’BRIEN Steve SOCIALIST ALLIANCE

Gavin 1 MORRIS Independent

Just put a number ‘1’ in the box as shown

McCABE Charlotte THE GREENS

BARRIE Jenny LIBERAL

CLAUSEN Declan LABOR

CAINE Milton Independent

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The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Priyanka Gupta of New Lambton. Priyanka has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy.

Last month’s mystery photo was taken at the Inner City Bypass under construction at Jesmond. This month’s quiz questions are below. You’ll find the answers within the pages of this issue except, of course, the mystery photo.

Question 1 - Which cycling fundraiser did local woman Catherine Bailey participate in recently?

Question 2 - What year was the No 2 reservoir on Platts Hill constructed?

Question 3 - How many candidates are there for the by-election for lord mayor?

Question 4 - What business can be found at 9 Alma Rd, New Lambton?

Question 5 - On which local street would you find this very recently created mural?

Send your quiz answers to admin@hunterlocal. com.au with ‘The Local Quiz’ in the subject line

or post them to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by Friday 17 April for a chance to win a $25 gift voucher* to spend at any Piggott’s Pharmacy store in Newcastle and the Hunter. *Not redeemable on prescription medicines

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Meet the candidates

LORD MAYORAL BY-ELECTION

Six candidates have nominated for the byelection to become Newcastle’s next lord mayor.

The by-election was triggered by the resignation in February of Dr Ross Kerridge.

The Local invited each candidate to tell readers something about themselves and their vision for the city if elected lord mayor.

The candidates’ campaign photos and party affiliations are shown at right in ballot paper order. Their profiles appear on the next two pages, again in ballot paper order.

This by-election allows optional preferential voting.

You can cast a valid vote by simply writing the number ‘1’ in the box corresponding to the candidate of your choice. If you choose you can continue numbering the boxes from 2 up to 6 in your order of preference By-election day is Saturday 18 April. There will be 45 polling places around the Newcastle LGA on the day.

Prepoll voting is available at six locations from Saturday 11 until Friday 17 April, except Sunday.

Postal vote applications are open until Monday 13 April.

See the NSW Electoral Commission website at: https://elections.nsw.gov. au/for updates.

Steve O’Brien is the Socialist Alliance candidate

Gavin Morris is an independent candidate

Charlotte McCabe is The Greens candidate

Jenny Barrie is the Liberal Party candidate

Declan Clausen is the Labor Party candidate

Milton Caine is an independent candidate

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > April 2026 > Page 13

Steve O’Brien

Gavin Morris

Charlotte McCabe

Local government is supposed to be the closest level of government to the people.

In Newcastle, however, our Council is becoming less accessible and less democratic due to its corporatisation.

I’m running for Mayor because I want to bring Council closer to the people. people. I want it to focus on what is best for our community.

Council should not be commercialising public assets.

I don’t support spending tens of millions of dollars on projects like the ‘Flintstone’ kiosk at Foreshore Park and the proposal for a fancy restaurant at the Newcastle Ocean Baths.

Developing then leasing public assets to a commercial operator is just another form of privatization that will subsidise private profit at the expense of our community.

Instead of a high-end restaurant at the Ocean Baths, let’s have free entry to all pools.

Council should also not be involved with war-related business, like the missile factory at the airport, or pay its top bureaucrats and CEO exorbitant salaries.

A people-first Council, under my lead, would conduct genuine community consultations around issues like the proposed basketball stadium on Wallarah Park.

Consultations would be about really listening and responding to residents, not just a formality or box-ticking exercise.

Let’s bring local government back to the people. Make it accessible, democratic and reverse the corporatisation of Council.

You can read more about me and my policies at socialist-alliance org.au

After a career spanning 40 years in the media I am ready to swap the newsroom for the council chambers.

Newcastle needs a strong, independent advocate who will be your voice at a local, state and federal level.

If elected as your Lord Mayor on Saturday 18 April I will focus on the needs of the community through active listening, directing funding equally across all four wards and securing our fair share of state and federal investment.

I will ensure our suburbs are clean, safe and well-kept.

Maintaining council owned assets and graffiti free streets by working cooperatively with businesses, property owners and agencies.

I will support and upgrade local club facilities and attract major sporting and cultural events that unite us.

I will continue to upgrade parks and playgrounds for our growing population, safeguard our beaches, pools, ocean baths and libraries.

I will preserve and nurture our heritage buildings, key corridors and bushland while planning and supporting sensible growth.

I want Newcastle families to be proud of cleaner suburbs, safer public spaces, stronger community facilities and a council that listens, that is open, transparent and accountable.

Newcastle needs independent leadership. Newcastle deserves an independent Lord Mayor.

To learn more about my campaign policies and show your support go to newcastleneeds.com.au/

I’m a primary school teacher, community campaigner and mother of two.

I moved to Tighes Hill in 2012 and was so concerned about the health impacts of coal dust on my family that I found myself becoming a community spokesperson. This led to community advocacy on appropriate urban development, increasing footpaths and cycleways and protecting urban biodiversity.

I first ran as a Greens candidate in the 2019 state election and was later elected as a Ward 2 Councillor in 2021. I’m now in my second term and serving as a Ward 1 Councillor. I was supported by the chamber to hold the position of Deputy Lord Mayor for 2026 which has resulted in my stepping into the role of Acting Lord Mayor while Ross Kerridge has been unable to undertake the position, and after his resignation.

By the time of the election on the 18th of April, I will have been the Acting Lord Mayor for a total of five and a half months.

I have demonstrated that I’m competent in this leadership role. I have ensured stability and cooperation which has resulted in better results for the community that we serve.

As your Mayor I will work to drive down the cost of housing through Councils’s planning levers, and through strong advocacy to state and federal governments. I will champion electrification and renewable energy and storage projects in our city to reduce household and business energy costs, and I will prioritise improving Newcastle’s transport systems.

Socialist Alliance

Page 14 > The Local > April 2026

Independent

The Greens

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Jenny Barrie

Declan Clausen

Milton Caine

I have a wealth of experience serving as a Councillor for five years. I currently serve as Chair of the Community & Culture Advisory Committee, Chair of the Hamilton Community Safety Committee, Deputy Chair of the Strategy & Innovation Committee, and Director of the Newcastle Airport Partnership Company 2.

If elected Lord Mayor, I will tackle crime and antisocial behaviour, promote tourism and major events, and restore civic pride. pride. I will advocate for a Coastal Asset/ Surf Club Strategic Plan. I want us to be proud of Newcastle again — you walk around the city now and there’s graffiti and rubbish everywhere. It’s time to restore civic pride, and we can do that by having leadership focused on delivering a safer, more vibrant city.

I played a key role in establishing the Hamilton Community Safety Committee — an initiative I would like to see expanded across the city to address crime and antisocial behaviour. Every suburb is facing its own challenges: Wallsend is having issues with vandalism and dirt bikes, and e-bikes are being ridden on footpaths at dangerous speeds.

I am the only candidate prepared to stand up to groups like Rising Tide when protestors promote civil disobedience.

Since 2024, as Chair of the Community & Culture Advisory Committee, I have helped the City secure major events such as Foo Fighters, unveil the expanded Newcastle Art Gallery, deliver the successful 2025 New Annual Festival, and develop a 10-year Cultural Plan.

I will also advocate for more housing projects so young people can continue living in Newcastle.

Newcastle isn’t just where I live, it’s home. I grew up in Wallsend, attended Lambton High School, and now live in Lambton with my partner and our dog.

I’m an experienced Councillor who can work with other levels of government, and other councillors in the chamber, to get things done.

Experience matters. The Lord Mayor leads a $450 million organisation.

That requires knowledge of local government processes, sound financial management and the ability to work constructively with other councillors and other levels of government.

I’m also an engineer and I believe effective leadership is not just about identifying problems, but having the skills to get on with fixing them.

During my time on Council, I’ve focused on improvements that make a real difference in people’s daily lives. That includes expanding footpath investment, delivering new playgrounds and dog parks, upgrading local centres, and backing major infrastructure like the Summerhill Solar Farm, the Art Gallery expansion, and the widening of Minmi Road.

A year ago I advocated for the $2 pool entry trial to ease cost-of-living pressure on families. It’s a simple, practical reform that has helped thousands of Novocastrians to stay active and connected. If elected, I will make it permanent across our city’s inland pools, and expand cheaper access to Lambton Pool.

Newcastle is growing. We need leadership that understands how Council works, and can turn community priorities into real action.

I’m proud of what our community has achieved, but there’s more to do. I’m ready to deliver for Newcastle from day one.

As a wheelchair taxi driver on the streets of Newcastle, I see daily the dangerous behavior of these young e-bike and e-scooter riders who are on our streets all hours of the day and night; but insufficient action is being taken at curbing this. To be more inclusive we must provide wheelchair accessible set down/pickup parking places In the CBD on at least Hunter and King streets.

Newcastle needs the introduction of a “flying squad” of police operating out of our closed local police stations where a direct phone contact to the local police station can get an immediate response. I want to motivate the Council to place pressure on the police minister to re-open the stations at Wallsend, Mayfield, and Beresfield. Current reporting to the police cannot get an urgent response except via 000 and some urgent action required is not an emergency.

As I have said many times, the role of every public servant in leadership should be a servant leader, and Newcastle needs a servant leader to serve the people of Newcastle and not their own interests. No servant leader would let 9 months go by from the land slip at New Lambton Heights without a scope of works being under consideration to remediate the site if it is possible. The council must do a lot better.

Our libraries, pools and sporting venues need to open as much as possible and the usage charge as low as possible. Potholes and leaf litter must be attended to as quickly as possible. The recent downpour in Newcastle shows that many drains have blocked, causing local flooding on a number of streets. Let’s get it done right.

Liberal Party

Labor Party

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

Independent

The Local > April 2026 > Page 15

What’s on at Newcastle Theatre Co this month?

The next stage production from Lambton’s own Newcastle Theatre Company is Seventeen

by Matthew Whittet.

This award-winning play, is a standout in Australian theatre.

Set over one day, it follows a group of seventeen-year-olds,

brought to life by a mature aged cast, as they navigate identity, friendship, love, and societal pressures.

This poignant work captures the bittersweet nature of youth, blending self-discovery with the ache of growing apart.

Seventeen by

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Page 16 > The Local > April 2026

It resonates across generations: younger audiences see their present reflected, while older viewers revisit their past.

More than just a play, Seventeen is a celebration of Australian storytelling, offering a nostalgic lens on youth, serving as both celebration and examination of such a pivotal time in life.

Its witty dialogue and emotional depth transcend age, inviting anyone who’s weathered the storm of teenage years to reflect, laugh, and feel.

Seventeen is a compelling yet sentimental exploration of youth and is sure to linger in the hearts of audiences long after the play is over.

Seventeen opens Friday 1 May at 7.30pm. Evening performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights until 9 May. Matinees performances are at 2pm on Saturday 2, Sunday 3, Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May. Tickets for Seventeen can be purchased online at newcastletheatrecompany.com. au or by calling the Box Office on 4952 4958.

The Local has a double pass to give away to the winner’s choice of performance of Seventeen.

Just text the word ‘Seventeen’, your first and last name, and your preferred performance day and time to 0455 210 000

by Friday 17 April The winner will be advised by phone and their name published in next month’s issue of The Local.

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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KNOW WHERE YOU STAND Free online Will Dispute roadmap Free online Family Law roadmap Get your free, instant, personalised roadmap at www.nlegal.com.au T: 1800 003 004 E: mail@nlegal.com.au To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > April 2026 > Page 17

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THAT WAS THEN This is now

with Lachlan Wetherall

Waratah Reservoirs

Water is often only fully appreciated when it is in short supply. Residents of Lambton and Waratah felt that keenly in 1880 when a prolonged drought forced them to “flock around the colliery locomotives daily to beg buckets of water from the drivers” and walk a mile each day to the Waratah colliery dam to wash the family linen.

Lambton The

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AGENTS FOR PRIDE DRY CLEANERS! Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 4.45pm Saturday 7.30am to 11.45am Closed Wednesdays for fishing!

3/97 Elder Street, PHONE: 4956 2400

Down the alley between Nextra and Cibis

Page 20 > The Local > April 2026

In 1885 water security improved when a pipeline from the Hunter River in Maitland began to supply water to reservoirs in Newcastle and Lambton. With increasing population came the need for more storage. In 1902 the Water Board commenced construction of a 2 million gallon reservoir on Platts Hill, the high ground to the west of Waratah. The reservoir, completed in November 1905, included a tiled roof because of concerns that “excessively hot weather had the effect of causing rapid growth of a very fine weed.”

The Water Board constructed No 2 reservoir on Platts Hill in 1919, with a capacity of 8 million gallons with a concrete roof supported on pillars. Construction commenced in 1924 of No 3 reservoir with 10 million gallons capacity and no roof. As it neared completion in 1926 the small No 1 reservoir was removed and the 8 million gallon No 4 reservoir built in its place. The even larger 13.5 million gallon No 5 reservoir was completed in 1930, bringing the total water storage on the hill at Waratah to nearly 40 million gallons (180 million litres).

The four reservoirs were used until the early 1990s when Hunter Water decommissioned them because of increasing leaks and concerns with the water quality from uncovered storage. In 2015 the No 3 reservoir was converted into a car park for the Mater Hospital.

Today as in 1880, increasing population and uncertain rainfall means that guaranteeing water supply is an ongoing endeavour. Hunter Water is currently building the Belmont desalination plant, that when completed in 2028 will add up to 30 million litres per day to the water system.

You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com

GET YOUR MESSAGE

OUT THERE!

Reach more than 11,000 local homes and businesses each month…

Call Mark on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal.com.au

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Waratah No 1 reservoir, April 1906. Photo by Ralph Snowball.

Newcastle Libraries Online Collection 001 001477

Waratah No 3 reservoir is now used as a staff car park for the Mater Hospital.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > April 2026 > Page 21

Here to

HELP with Elaine Abery

of Unravelling Red Tape

Be prepared

I was speaking to one of my regular readers earlier this week. He said that a key theme in my articles is the old Scout motto “be prepared”.

Let’s talk about why being prepared is important and what it looks like.

Being prepared is important because: • Opportunities for advocacy can come unexpectedly – what happens if you need to start from scratch?

Sonia Hornery MP State Member for Wallsend

I will continue to stand up for the issues that are important to you.

67 Nelson Street, Wallsend Telephone: 4950 0955 Email: wallsend@parliament.nsw.gov.au Web: soniahornery.com.au Authorised by Sonia Hornery MP. Funded using parliamentary entitlements.

Page 22 > The Local > April 2026

• meetings don’t always go to plan – have a plan B, C and even Z • Surprises happen – your outcomes improve when you are prepared for the unexpected So what does being prepared look like?

• Determine your highest-level purpose and always refer back to it. This will make you more adaptable. If you are clear on your ultimate goal and ready to take different paths to reach it, great things will follow (eventually).

• Imagine as many solutions as possible: there’s no single right way to achieve your goal. This allows you to match the best solution option to the decision-maker you are dealing with. Some solutions fit one decision-maker or organisation better than the next.

• Research the person and organisation before you deal with them. Look for their values and drivers, match those to your purpose and develop the best solutions that meet your purpose and their needs. Your solution is more likely to be adopted and more quickly if you can meet the decisionmakers’ needs as well as your own.

• Have a short explanation and summary of your ask available, as well as a list of what problems it solves for your community – on paper and verbally.

This ensures that you don’t miss an opportunity – expected or unexpected.

Do you have any other ideas on why being prepared for advocacy is so important?

Or what it looks like?

Please feel free to reach out at: elaine@ unravellingredtape.com.au

GET YOUR MESSAGE

OUT THERE!

Reach more than 11,000 local homes and businesses each month…

Call Mark on 0455 210 000 or email mark@hunterlocal.com.au thelocalnewcastle.com.au

VET Chat with Dr Cassy Macpherson of Elder St Vets

Importance of desexing pets One of the most common questions I get in consultations is “why should I desex my pet?” It’s a fair concern: desexing involves anaesthesia and, for females, a significant surgery. Here are the main reasons I recommend it and when to do it.

Public-health and community: Councils and the Australian Government promote desexing to prevent unwanted litters. Accidental breeding fuels the stray population and fills shelters with healthy animals needing homes. Many councils

reduce registration fees for desexed pets.

Health benefits: Entire females face higher risks of mammary cancer as they age—the risk rises with each heat—and can develop pyometra, a life‑threatening uterine infection that requires emergency surgery. Entire males are at increased risk of testicular tumours, prostate problems and perineal hernias. Desexing at a younger age reduces these risks, and anaesthetic and recovery risks are generally lower in younger animals.

Timing: Cats are ideally desexed at 14–16 weeks (3.5–4 months), before their first season. Dogs depend on breed size: small breeds around six months (or after adult teeth appear); large breeds often benefit from delayed desexing at 9–12 months to lower the risk of certain growth-related joint issues like hip or elbow dysplasia.

Possible downsides: Weight gain is the most common post‑desexing issue and can be managed with diet and exercise. Rarely, urinary incontinence or behavioural changes occur; incontinence can often be treated with medication. Desexing may reduce some unwanted behaviours but does not guarantee complete behavioural change.

For more information about getting your pet desexed, give us a call at Elder Street Vets and we will be happy to answer all your questions and concerns.

Compassionate, quality care by independent, community-focused vets!

Trust • Compassion • Excellence • Community • Innovation Our Services Medical • Pathology • Surgery • Radiology Ultrasonography • Dentistry • Puppy Preschool

• 124-126 Elder St Lambton • 4072 4700 • info@elderstvets.com.au • • elderstvets.com.au •

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > April 2026 > Page 23

MONEY

Matters with Dominic Brown

from Nest Financial Solutions

Stay calm and invested

The recent conflict involving Iran has understandably led to unsettling headlines and increased market volatility. When wars or geopolitical tensions occur, financial markets often react quickly — and sometimes sharply.

It’s important to remember that markets dislike uncertainty. News of conflict can push share prices down in the short term as investors react emotionally. However, history shows that markets have weathered wars, political upheaval and

global crises many times before.

While every event is different, one common pattern tends to repeat: markets fall, uncertainty peaks, and then over time, confidence gradually returns.

Long-term investors who remain patient are often rewarded when markets recover.

For retirees, this can feel particularly concerning.

When you’re drawing an income from your investments, market drops can seem particularly damaging. But this is where having a well-structured plan matters. A strategy that includes cash reserves and diversified investments is designed to help smooth out these periods of volatility, allowing you to avoid selling growth assets at the wrong time.

Reacting to headlines can sometimes do more harm than good. Making sudden changes during turbulent periods may lock in losses and disrupt long-term income plans.

While no one enjoys market uncertainty, history reminds us that patience and discipline are powerful allies. If recent events have made you uneasy, it may simply be time for a review — not a reaction.

GENERAL ADVICE WARNING – This article is merely intended to be educational and in-formative. It should not be taken as a personal recommendation to you. If you feel that you may need financial advice then please do not hesitate to contact Nest Financial Solutions for a friendly and obligation free chat.

In a stupor over your super?

Talk to the team at Nest Financial Solutions Your local financial planner based in Lambton Covering all aspects of: l Superannuation l Tax l Investing l Retirement planning l Centrelink Find us at 88 Elder Street. Lambton (inside GC Accountants)

Email: dominic@nestfs.com.au Phone: 0413 030 724 Nest Financial Solutions Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No. 1312348) of Capstone Financial Planning Pty Ltd. ABN 24 093 733 969. AFLS No. 223135

Page 24 > The Local > April 2026

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

LAW

Matters

by Ronnie Wall

of Wall Legal, New Lambton

What is AML/CTF?

You will hear more about this in the coming months, as the Government roll out the second phase of the “Anti Money Laundering and Counter Terrorism Financing Act 2006.”

Australia’s property market is a major attraction for criminals to launder money and commencing on 1 July 2026, real estate professionals, lawyers and conveyancers will need to collect information from vendors and purchasers involved in a property transaction and report to Austrac (the “Australian Transaction Reports and Analysis Centre”).

The first phase of the Legislation (Tranche 1) was enacted in 2006 and introduced mandatory

obligations on the financial, gambling and bullion sectors. Tranche 2 will commence on 1 July 2026 to bring Australia in line with other countries, including New Zealand.

Your lawyer or conveyancer must carry out initial and ongoing “customer due diligence.”

This includes (but is not limited to) obtaining identification from you and establishing details of who will be the “owner” of the property. The majority of transactions may be straightforward however, the more complex transactions involving Companies and Trusts will require additional levels of identification. Any transaction involving physical currency (AUD$10,000 or more), international funds transfers or any suspected suspicious activity or transactions must all be reported.

For you the consumer, this may mean more detailed identity verification, a review of large or unusual funds transfers and transparency regarding the source of your funds. This stricter ongoing process is to prevent criminals from disguising illegally obtained funds as legitimate income and to protect the Australian property market.

Disclaimer: This article is a brief overview only and provided for general information purposes only. The contents should not be relied on as legal or financial advice.

Wall Legal is a small general legal practice offering affordable, personalised service for each individual client, with fixed fees for most matters. ➤ Retail Leases ➤ Sale & Purchase of Business ➤ Enduring Powers of Attorney & Guardianships ➤ Wills & Estates ➤ Conveyancing ➤ Home visits available

9 Alma Road, New Lambton • PHONE: 4957 7055 EMAIL: office@walllegal.com.au • WEB: www.walllegal.com.au To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > April 2026 > Page 25

PHARMACY

Matters

by Anthony Piggott

of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether

Scabies

Scabies is a very itchy skin condition caused by a tiny mite that burrows into the upper layer of the skin. It is not related to poor hygiene and can affect anyone. Scabies spreads easily from person to person, but effective treatments are available from pharmacies.

What causes scabies?

Scabies is caused by the scabies mite, which lives and burrows into human skin. After burrowing, female mites lay eggs beneath the skin’s surface.

These mites only live on humans and are different from animal mites, meaning you cannot catch scabies from pets.

Scabies mites cannot jump or fly. They spread mainly through close skin-to-skin contact, such as holding hands with someone who has scabies. It can also spread through contact with clothing, bedding or other personal items used by an infected person.

Because of this, scabies often spreads within households, schools, childcare centres, nursing homes and other close-knit communities.

Signs and symptoms

Scabies causes an allergic reaction in the skin that leads to intense itching and a rash. For someone who has never had scabies before, symptoms may take two to six weeks to appear, although the person can still spread the mites during this time.

If a person has previously had scabies, symptoms may appear within one to four days.

Common signs and symptoms include: Intense itching, often worse at night or when the skin is warm, such as after exercise or a shower.

A red, lumpy rash, sometimes with small blisters.

Burrows, which look like thin, wavy grey lines on the skin, usually up to 1 cm long.

Scabies commonly affects the skin between the

Page 26 > The Local > April 2026

fingers, the inner wrists and elbows, armpits, groin, buttocks, waistline, belt-line, male genitals and women’s nipples. In babies and young children, it may also appear on the head, face, neck, palms of the hands and soles of the feet.

Treating scabies

Scabies is usually treated with a special lotion or cream that kills the mites. The treatment must be applied to the entire body from the chin down to the toes, including areas that may not feel itchy.

Symptoms usually start to improve within one to two days after treatment. A second application is typically required seven days later.

Always follow the instructions for the product you are using. Treatment is generally applied after a warm shower, once the skin is dry. The cream or lotion should be spread over the whole body, including skin folds, between fingers and toes, under nails and on the soles of the feet. Some cases may also require treatment on the scalp, face and ears. The product must stay on the skin for the recommended time, often 8–12 hours.

All members of the household should be treated on the same day to prevent reinfection.

Self-care and preventing spread

Avoid scratching, as this can cause skin infections. A pharmacist or doctor can recommend treatments to help relieve itching, which may continue for several weeks even after the mites have been killed.

To prevent scabies from spreading: Treat all close contacts, even if they have no symptoms.

Wash bedding, towels, clothing and soft toys in hot water after treatment.

Use a hot dryer, iron or dry cleaning where possible.

Seal items that cannot be washed in plastic bags for seven days to kill mites and eggs.

When to seek medical advice

Speak with a doctor or pharmacist before using scabies treatment if the person is pregnant, breastfeeding, under two years old, elderly, frail or has a weakened immune system. Medical advice is also recommended if the skin shows signs of infection, such as yellow crusts or discharge, or if itching continues for more than four weeks after treatment.

A person with scabies should stay home from childcare, school or work until the day after treatment has started. If a child is affected, their school or childcare centre should be notified.

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Community Group Notices CHILDREN & FAMILIES NEWCASTLE TOY LIBRARY

Newcastle Toy Library is calling for more volunteers to assist with the running of the Toy Library sessions on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. The Toy Library is a terrific service based at New Lambton Library and run entirely by volunteers. We are also seeking new members to join our committee. Contact us at newcastletoylibrary@gmail.com for more information about joining our enthusiastic team.

COMMUNITY GROUPS ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASS

The Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre offers a free class for non-English speaking background men and women. The class is for everyone, 18 years and older, who wants to practise their conversational English regardless of their residency status or visa type. In this class the participants learn about Australia, our flowers and plants, our animals, our culture, and our language. Meet new people, make new friends, and have fun while learning English. It is a very friendly class for people with all levels of English and all ages to practise their spoken English every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10am to 1pm during school terms. For more information on our programs, please call 4965 5291 or email: info@mncinc.org.au or simply walk in and say hello. The Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre is at 3 Illalung Road, corner of Durham Rd, Lambton

LAMBTON RESIDENTS GROUP

All residents of Lambton area are welcome to come along to our monthly meeting. You too can be a part of some exciting and worthwhile initiatives and projects for the local area. The group meets on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Next meeting will be at The Mark Hotel on Wednesday 8 April at 5.30pm. For more information call Angela on 0422 633 737.

To have a free community notice published here email details to admin@hunterlocal.com.au or by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

COMMUNITY EVENTS DELPRAT’S COTTAGE OPEN DAY

Delprat Cottage was built in 1914, during construction of the steelworks, as the Newcastle residence for G.D. Delprat, Manager of the Broken Hill Proprietary (BHP). It overlooks the BHP site and Industrial Drive in Mayfield. The fully restored cottage has been converted into a museum of regional industrial heritage by Newcastle Industrial Heritage Association. The Open Day from 10am to 2pm on 26 April includes free public inspection of the cottage, tours by ex-BHP workers, films and an exhibition of regional industrial heritage. The industries of the Hunter were critical to the defence of Australia during WWII. The Fortress Newcastle exhibition will feature at this April 2026 open day.

Free entry. Morning/afternoon tea will be available to purchase. Enter via 133A Ingall St, Mayfield East.

For more information phone 0419 241 731

NEWCASTLE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY

We next meet on Tuesday 7 April at 2pm, Mechanics Institute, Elder Street Lambton. Remember NBN in the ‘good old days’? Their archives tell our story and more. The archives are now being digitised and we will hear all about it from Dr Ann Hardy of Digitisation Lab at the University of Newcastle Archives. Come along, meet our members, enjoy the talk and some afternoon tea. All are welcome.

SENIORS GROUPS BEL AIR VIEW CLUB

Are you looking for something new to do this year, then come along to Bel Air View Club and join us for friendship, regular activities and interesting guest speakers at our monthly meetings . View stands for Voice, Interests and Education of Women . Our meetings are held on the third Monday of each month at South Leagues Club in Merewether at 10. 30 am and we warmly welcome guests and new members to join us in supporting the Smith Family’s learning for life programme which assists young disadvantaged Australian school children to create a better future for themselves through education. If you would like any further information, please phone Gillian on 4963 5655 or email: gillian. cranston@bigpond.com The Local > April 2026 > Page 27

Mark Brooker Your independent Ward 3 Councillor I’m local and listening…

Follow me on

for news and updates facebook.com/markbforward3

EMAIL: mbrooker@ncc.nsw.gov.au • PHONE: 0448 259 331

Page 28 > The Local > April 2026

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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LEGAL SERVICES

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Call 4940 5100 or 0402 957 055 or email

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PLUMBER

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HEY TRADIES!

Your Local Plumber Servicing New Lambton, Lambton and surrounding suburbs… ➤ Plumbing ➤ Drainage ➤ Gas Fitting ➤ Blocked Drains ➤ CCTV pipe inspections ➤ Friendly and Reliable Service 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE, ALL WORK GUARANTEED

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The Local > April 2026 > Page 29

ROOF & GUTTER

Classifieds...

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Tile & Metal Roof Restoration Specialists Call for a FREE quote…

0422 927 640

or email info@newcastleroofandgutter.com.au Web: newcastleroofandgutter.com.au

WINDOW FURNISHINGS

Looking for quality blinds and shutters?

Give us a call, you’ll be glad you did!

Locally owned and operated Phone: 4957 4945 or email: enquiries@theshutterguy.com.au www.theshutterguy.com.au

ADVERTISE HERE

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OUT THERE! Reach more than 11,000 local homes and businesses each and every month when you advertise in Newcastle’s favourite little community newspaper…

BED DOLLS Attractive handmade bed dolls for sale. $40.00 each.

Would suit girls bedrooms 5 to 8 year old. Phone Yvette Ph 0423 483 597 BUDGERIGARS Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15 Ph 0456 919 046

Page 30 > The Local > April 2026

NOTICES

CHINA 14 piece Shellys tea set, James Kent Australian Wattle 13 piece, Crown Ducal 4 medium plates, 60 pieces of assorted antique China. Phone for prices.

Ph 0412 688 284 COMPUTER CHAIR New black computer chair, bought at Christmas fro $300, sell $150. North Lambton.

Ph 4952 3001 GARDEN POTS Assorted plastic and terracotta pots. Prices from 50c each Ph 0421 003 693 PIANO Upright piano and bench seat. $200 ono. New Lambton.

Ph 0419 214 243 CROSSWORD SOLUTION FROM PAGE 28 S

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FURNITURE Single, maroon, leather lounge chair. Large 6 shelf book cupboard (heavy). Pick up North Lambton Ph 4957 3121

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Servicing many types of antique mechanical clocks including Mantles, Grandfathers, Wallclocks.

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thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Classifieds...

NOTICES

HEARTMOVES Gentle exercises Seated or standing Suitable for seniors

Wednesdays 10.15 - 11.00 11.30 - 12.15 Kotara Bowling Club 2 Howell St, Kotara Complimentary tea & coffee

Call Lorraine 0411 422 300 or Lorraine.norton88 @bigpond.com

NOTICES

CLEANER Reliable, local, experienced residential cleaner available.

Top references. Weekly or fortnightly, $25 per hr (3 hrs minimum) Ph 0493 054 207 CLEANING SERVICE Traci’s Complete Domestic Cleaning Service. End of lease cleans, spring cleans and eco cleaning. Gardening and light yard work Ph 0415 964 349 RUBBISH REMOVAL Any general and household waste and yard clean ups. Free quotes. 30 years experience.

Fully insured. Call Mike Ph 0419 247 781 THEATRE TICKETS WINNER Congratulations to Dzintra Horder who won two tickets to ’Next to Normal’ at Newcastle Theatre Company in March.

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS They’re free & they work! Got something to sell? Email us at admin@hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of the month.

POSITION VACANT

BE PAID TO DELIVER

The Local, your free monthly letterbox delivered newspaper, needs reliable, energetic locals who love walking, to join the team that ensures our community news gets into more than 11,000 letterboxes each month.

You must be available to complete your deliveries around the end of each month. Two to four hours of walking per delivery area each month. Good rates paid per 100 letterboxes. All ages are welcome to apply.

If you would like to be on our deliverers wait list email mark@hunterlocal. com.au or text him on 0455 210 000 for more details.

SOMETHING TO SELL OR TO TELL? TRY FREE LOCAL COMMUNITY CLASSIFIEDS. THEY WORK! Name_____________________________ Address__________________________ Phone_____________________________ Email_____________________________ Write the wording of your advertisement below. (Max. 25 words please) Text: ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________ Classification (eg. For Sales, Notices, Garage Sales, Wanted etc):____________________ Complete this form and post it to: ‘Local Classifieds’ PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 or email: admin@hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of the month. We reserve the right to not publish advertising considered inappropriate or not in the spirit of the free classifieds offer. Private party ads only. For business advertising please email mark@hunterlocal.com.au or phone 0455 210 000.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > April 2026 > Page 31

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Page 32 > The Local > April 2026 www.piggottspharmacy.com.au

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