The massive growth in e-bike and e-scooter ownership over recent years has perhaps got you wondering what’s actually legal and what’s not.
In NSW, the legal framework for electric micromobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters is shaped by road-safety laws that balance rider freedom and convenience with public safety.
Riding these devices on public roads, shared paths and footpaths is governed by whether the device is permitted under current regulations. E-bikes that meet Australian regulatory standards, generally equivalent to the European Standard EN 15194, and with motor assist cutting out when not continued on page 6
The NSW government is working on new micromobility laws
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
LOCAL Matters
with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local
I am, you are, we are...
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48 260 331 896
There are few duties as a local councillor that bring as much pride and genuine joy as attending an Australian Citizenship Ceremony. No matter how many times I have the honour of being present, each ceremony feels special, uplifting and deeply meaningful.
At the Citizenship Ceremony at Newcastle City Hall late last month almost 300 new citizens were welcomed..
Citizenship ceremonies are a powerful reminder of what makes Australia such a remarkable country. People from all walks of life, cultures and backgrounds come together with a shared commitment to call Australia home. As I looked around City Hall, I saw excitement, relief, gratitude and hope reflected in the faces of our new citizens. Many have had difficult journeys to reach this moment, and it is humbling to witness their sense of achievement.
One of the greatest joys is learning of the personal stories—stories of resilience, family, opportunity and belonging. These moments highlight the values we share as Australians: fairness, respect, community spirit and a belief in giving everyone a fair go. For me citizenship ceremonies reinforce why local government matters. Councils are often the first point of connection for new Australians as they settle into community life—through libraries, community events, local services and neighbourhood activities. These ceremonies mark not just the beginning of citizenship, but the start of deeper community involvement.
Each ceremony leaves me feeling inspired and optimistic. They are a celebration of unity, diversity and shared purpose, and a reminder that our community continues to grow stronger through the stories, talents and contributions of those who choose to become Australian citizens.
Local high school scientists awarded
Two budding student scientists, Thea Barron and Shuyan Lin from Lambton High School, each picked up awards at the Young Scientists Awards Program late last year.
Held at The University of Technology Sydney this was the 33rd year of the Young Scientist Awards Program, which celebrates scientific and technical innovation of K-12 school students around the state. The program, run by the
Science Teachers’ Association of New South Wales (STANSW) encourages students to undertake innovative projects and investigations to find creative solutions to real-world problems.
The competition attracts more than 500 project entries from across the state each year.
Shuyan achieved her second place Award in Year 11-12 Biology for her exploration of the potential for mealworms to reduce the impact of plastics in the environment.
Thea received her second place Award in the Earth and Environmental Science Year 1112 category for her study of the impact of our shorelines on the fragmentation of microplastics.
Following the Young Scientist Awards Ceremony, selected students from each region of NSW will go on to represent the state at the National Science Awards - The iCubed Awards.
Vice President of The Science Teachers’ Association of
New South Wales, Dr Lauren McKnight, says the Young Scientist Awards provide a platform for students to showcase their scientific curiosity, thinking and creativity. “Through the Young Scientist Awards, students engage with authentic practices of science. They ask questions, test ideas, and put their scientific skills into action. In doing so, they create something genuinely unique, driven by curiosity and the desire to explore the unknown.”
Steve Sue Scott
Thea Barron
Shuyan Lin
2026 REGISTRATION DAY
at New Lambton Bowling Club, (Tauranga Rd, behind Wests car park)
Saturday 7th February from 9am to 12noon
Players that have played with Wests in the 2025 season can register online – you will receive an email with all details. Registrations will open on 1st December, 2025. We cater for all ages and skill levels from 7 years to Seniors. We train during the week at our courts at Kentish Oval and games are held at National Park Netball Courts Friday nights for 7 years and 8 years, Saturdays for all other ages.
For more information please contact the Secretary, Stephanie Bortkevitch on Mobile: 0412 525 900 or Email: sbortkevitch@gmail.com
Clean Up Australia, or Lambton Park at least
Clean Up Australia Day returns on Sunday 1 March.
Lambton Residents Group is calling on the community to register now and assist with a quick clean up of Lambton Park. You can be a part of Australia’s largest environmental movement. Since its inception, over 23 million volunteers have joined the Clean Up effort.
In 2025, over 800,000 people volunteered across 8,000 events nationally during the Clean Up Australia Day campaign period. Pip Kiernan, Chair of Clean Up Australia said: “Our nation’s litter disposal and recycling challenges are continuously shifting but the one thing we know for certain, is that too much litter is still making
Lambton Park Clean Up co-ordinator Ward 3 Councillor Mark Brooker
its way into our streets, parks, bushlands and waterways.”
Mark Brooker, Ward 3 councillor and coordinator of the Lambton
Park Clean Up event for the sixth straight year said “We have a beautiful park that we can all be proud of. And we know it’s clean and tidy most days.”
“But any popular public space, hosting many community and sports events each year, will see some litter left behind.” He said.
The Clean Up at Lambton Park will run from 9.30 until about 10.45am on Sunday 1 March. Meet at the picnic tables, under the fig trees opposites Flamingos Live.
To register go to www. cleanupaustraliaday.org.au/ register/, hit the ‘Join a Clean Up button and search ‘Lambton’. Or you can just show up on the day and register.
BE A JAFFA IN 2026!
REGISTRATION INFORMATION FOR LAMBTON JAFFAS JUNIOR FC
We are a community-based Club catering for players of all age groups from Over 35’s, Ladies, All Age and players 5 to 18 years of age. Information sessions will be held at the club’s facilities at Harry Edwards Oval: Wednesday 11th Feb 4:30pm to 6pm Saturday 14th Feb 10am to 12pm Wednesday 18th Feb 4:30pm to 6pm
HOW TO REGISTER:
1. Log into Services NSW to apply for the Active Kids Voucher (per child) for 5-18 years of age.
2. Once you have a voucher number follow the link to register with Lambton Jaffas Junior Soccer Club and follow the prompts at registration.playfootball.com.au/signin
Is that legal?
continued from front page pedalled or when a speed of 25km/h is reached are treated as bicycles. These devices can have a maximum continuous rated power of no more than 250 watts.
You can ride a legal e-bike on public roads, shared paths and in most places where conventional bicycles are allowed, following the same road rules.
This includes keeping left on shared paths and giving way to pedestrians.
There’s no requirement for a driver’s licence or registration if the e-bike fits the permitted definition. Riders must wear an approved bicycle helmet.
Converted e-bikes that don’t meet these standards can be treated by Police as unregistered motor vehicles and are illegal on public roads. This includes bikes with throttles, those that do not require pedalling, as well as petrol-powered bicycles.
Privately owned e-scooters are currently illegal in all public places in NSW — including roads, footpaths and shared paths — unless they are part of a government-approved shared e-scooter trial area.
Riding your e-scooter on public land can attract significant fines. Shared e-scooters are permitted only in designated trial zones and must be rented from approved operators.
Helmets are compulsory, and scooter riders must be at least 16 years old.
For further enquiries please email lambtonjaffasjuniors@gmail.com
The NSW Government plans and parliamentary recommendations envisage legalising private e-scooters with set speed and age limits and allowing them on shared paths and bike lanes, while retaining some bans on footpaths to protect pedestrians. These reforms are still under development.
E-bikes in general enjoy broad legal acceptance where regular bicycles are allowed, but e-scooters remain mostly prohibited in public areas outside trial zones — a situation that may evolve as new laws are introduced.
For more information go to: transport.nsw.gov.au/ roadsafety/bicycle-riders/ebikes/
Letters to
Where are things at with the basketball stadium?
Have they made a decision yet?
As a local community representative of the Save Our Lambton Ovals Facebook group, this is a question I get asked a lot. So I thought it might be helpful to provide an update to the community.
The Hunter Indoor Sports Centre proposal is currently at the Response to Submissions (RTS) stage, with Newcastle Basketball recently granted an extension until 9 February 2026 to submit their response.
Once received, the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will review how the concerns raised by the community have been addressed, including flooding, traffic, access and the loss of public open space.
If those responses don’t fully answer the questions raised, Planning can request further information or changes before completing its own detailed assessment.
After that assessment is finalised, a determination will be prepared and the project will be referred to the Independent Planning Commission (IPC).
As the name suggests, the IPC is independent and will make the final decision.
Importantly, this stage gives the community another opportunity to be heard, with submissions reopening and a public meeting usually held. It is a long process, but for a development of this scale, careful assessment matters.
Jacqui Rosewood - address provided
Not numbers, merit and common sense
The Newcastle Basketball debacle resurfaced on NBN on 13 January, with suggestions that the sheer number of submissions might somehow sway the Department of Planning on the Wallarah and Blackley ovals proposal.
This is not a numbers game.
Planning decisions must be based on merit and common sense, and the Turton Road site is riddled with problems.
The proposed building itself is visually intrusive and requires major redesign.
Newcastle Basketball has also sought more time to respond to the Department’s letter of 24 October — a routine and entirely appropriate step for a State Significant Development.
Hilary Oliver - address provided
BEARS
REGISTRATIONS OPEN
U6’s, Girls and New Players - FREE REGO Returning players $150 Family discounts available^ All players receive training shirts & shorts*
^Discounts apply from 3rd child onwards *Free playing sock and shorts for new players
Local eyes in good hands
After more than 40 years in the optometry game Greg Corbett has handed over the reigns of Eyecare Plus New Lambton to new owner Dr Stephanie Ngo.
This is Steph’s first venture into private practice after graduating from UNSW in 2018 and spending some years working with other practices.
“I’ve fallen in love with the Hunter lifestyle. It’s a great place for my husband and I to put down roots and raise a family.” Steph told The Local. Dr Ngo is therapeutically endorsed meaning she can prescribe ocular medications for patients without having to refer them to an eye specilaist. Greg will be staying on at the practice for a couple of days each for the time being to assist Steph settle in to the role but says he’s looking forward to the free time that retirement will allow him.
Dr Stephanie Ngo has taken over the Eyecare Plus practice at Cromwell Street New Lambton from long-time proprietor Greg Corbett
Not sure of the next step on your employment path? We can help
Parent Pathways is a voluntary service that offers personalised and financial support to eligible parents and carers of young children, to help them discover what is next on their journey.
Delivered by Employment Plus in four locations across the Hunter region, the Parent Pathways program is focused on the individual needs of parents who are considering their next step – whether that’s training,
If you’re unemployed and caring for children under 6 years
Parent Pathways can offer you personailsed support that works for you and your family
education or re-entering the workforce. With the help of a qualified mentor, you can receive flexible support to identify and realise your study and career goals, and balance these with your family responsibilities. Financial support is also available to help with costs such as training courses, text books or purchasing a new computer.
Being a parent is a full-time job. But when you’re ready to explore
what’s next, we’re here to help. There’s no set path and no pressure – just flexible support designed to move at your pace.
Who is eligible? The Parent Pathways program is for parents and carers who have a child aged under six years, and are not in paid employment. Get in touch today to learn more. Call us on 136 123, or visit employmentplus.com.au
If one of the letterboxes pictured above is yours, you’ve won a $25 shopping voucher from a selection of great local retailers. Phone Mark at The Local on 0455 210 000 by 16 February 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
Flowstate Plumbing Co - Your Local Residential Plumbing Specialists
We’re available 24/7, with no call out fee. We’re here to answer any plumbing questions, provide free quotes or offer a second opinion. We take the time to understand your concerns and work with you to find solutions that fit your needs and your budget.
choose from. First in gets first choice of vouchers. Vouchers must be claimed by 16 February and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 31 March 2026.
Congratulations to the residents of 20A Albert St North Lambton who won a $25 voucher in December issue.
The Local Quiz
Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, T. Fanning of New Lambton. They have won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy.
Last month’s mystery photo was taken at Harker Oval. 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 - When is Clean Up Australia Day in Lambton Park this year?
Question 2 - Can an e-scooter be legally ridden on public land in NSW?
Question 3 - What is the name of Newcastle Theatre Company’s first stage production for 2026?
Question 4 - In what street is Eyecare Plus New Lambton located?
Question 5 - Where would you find the mural showm above right?
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 Monday 16 February 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
to detect any problems early, so that they can be prevented. • Thorough and professional assessment by our experienced podiatrists. • Feet with diabetes
SWIMART NEW LAMBTON REGULAR POOL MAINTENANCE & SERVICING
Operating since 2004
Hassle-free pool ownership! Let us worry about your pool so you can be doing more fun things!
Our Quality
Service
What is included:
• Water testing and chemical balancing*
• Empty all skimmer baskets and pump baskets
• Check equipment for proper operation and leaks
• Scoop and clean surface for all debris
Our service can be scheduled fortnightly, monthly or bi-monthly!
• Backwash and rinse filter
• Check and clean salt cell
• Brush and vacuum pool surface and tile line
• Cartridge filter cleaning and maintenance
Terms and conditions apply. *Chemicals at an additional cost, if required. Green pools or equipment repairs will be quoted before work commences.
What’s on at Newcastle Theatre Co this month?
The first stage production from Newcastle Theatre Company’s 2026 season is Clue: on Stage. Welcome to Boddy Manor where dinner guests are dropping like flies and everyone is a sus-
pect! Based on the classic board game and the iconic 1985 cult film, Clue: On Stage is its theatrical adaptation. When six eccentric guests are invited to a remote mansion for a mysterious dinner par-
ty the evening takes a deadly turn and quickly unravels into a madcap whodunit full of twists, turns and slapstick comedy. Armed with sharp wit and even sharper weapons, the guests
must race against the clock, and each other, to solve the murder before the killer strikes again. Was it Colonel Mustard in the lounge with the wrench? Miss Scarlett in the library with the candlestick? Or Professor Plum in the hall with the revolver? Set in the 1950s, this murder mystery farce will keep you guessing – and laughing – until the very end.
Clue: on Stage opens Friday 6 February at 7.30pm.
Evening performances are Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights until 15 February Matinees performances are at 2pm on Saturday 7 and 14 and Sunday 8 and 15 February..
Tickets for Clue: on Stage 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 Clue: on Stage.
Just text the word ‘Clue’, your first and last name, and your preferred performance day and time to 0455 210 000 by Friday 6 February. The winner will be advised by phone and their name published in next month’s issue of The Local.
THAT WAS THEN This is now
with Lachlan Wetherall
Walsh Island tramway extension
“Plonk! That is what £12,000 going down a drain sounds like. And that is all that was heard when the NSW Government spent something like that sum on a useless overhead bridge and length of tramline in Newcastle.”
So begins an August 1921 article from the Newcastle Sun outlining a long forgotten and inglorious episode of government bungling.
In 1913 construction began of two industrial enterprises - the BHP steelworks at Port Waratah, and on the opposite side of the river on Walsh Island, the Government dockyard.
Soon after the official opening of the steelworks in 1915 the government extended the Wickham tramline to Port Waratah to provide transport for the steelworkers.
In 1918 the government approved plans to extend the Port Waratah tramline by 1km to the Hunter River so that dockyard employees could get to work via tram and then a quick ferry trip across to Walsh Island.
Despite the short distance the extension was costly, requiring large embankments and a bridge to carry the tramline over a railway and access road into the steelworks.
Construction finished early in 1920, and the line was ready for use.
However, the government had failed to check if the workers actually wanted the line. The answer was, they did not. The dockyard supplied a free ferry service from Market Wharf in Newcastle to get workers to Walsh Island.
Changing their commute to a paid fare on the extended tramline followed by another paid fare to cross the river was more expensive and the workers refused to use the new extension.
The line was never put into service and the rails eventually removed in 1933.
The money wasted on the Walsh Island tramway was plain even as construction finished.
In April 1920 the Newcastle Sun reported, “Many people will incline to the view that the expenditure could have been made more profitably in other directions.”
Indeed, imagine if that £12,000 had been spent on an overhead bridge at the Adamstown rail crossing instead.
You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 4.45pm Saturday 7.30am to 11.45am Closed Wednesdays for fishing!
Above: Launch of the steamer “Delungra” at Walsh Island dockyard, 25 March 1919.
Below: Google Earth view showing the route of the Port Waratah tramline (green) the never used 1km Walsh Island extension (yellow), and the dockyards site (blue).
Photo by Thomas Rodoni. University of Newcastle, Living Histories.
Hey neighbour!
Tech start-up Inclusable is the brainchild of New Lambton’s Brodie Duncan.
by Georgia Osland
Brodie Duncan
You can see the point at which Brodie Duncan had the idea for a groundbreaking inclusivity app, and the renovations of his 1960s New Lambton home took a backseat.
“People come over and comment on how good the house looks, then they see where the new flooring meets the old floorboards, and I say, ‘That’s the app’,” Brodie tells The Local. The app he’s referring to is Inclusable: a first-of-its kind event directory for people with disabilities to find and book accessible events.
It includes helpful information about venue features, such as wheelchair ramps, accessible toilets, and hearing and vision support, which makes planning ahead easier for the one in five Australians who live with
a disability, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Brodie himself lives with a disability, having sustained a serious workplace injury 10 years ago while working as a fitter, which resulted in his arm being amputated and reattached.
But it wasn’t until a surfing accident left one of his mates a quadriplegic that he understood how challenging booking and attending events could be for people with disabilities.
“I was hitting him up to go places, and he was always a bit hesitant, not knowing if the venue had the right ramps – you don’t even think about that until you have to,” Brodie says.
“Another time, he wanted to go to a concert and booked a wheelchair accessible taxi, but it never showed up.”
Brodie started playing around with the concept for Inclusable and realised there was a gap in the market for an app or website that brought everything together under the one roof, including
ticketing and accessible transport that works much like popular ride-shares.
Working with a local marketing agency and a development team in Sydney, Inclusable went live late last year and celebrates its official launch this month. Users can complete a profile, and the app suggests events that match their needs and interests. When he’s not flat out working on the app, Brodie can be found spending time with his two teenage daughters, walking the dogs, or taking his retired dad for a coffee, but he feels Inclusable will take an even more central role in his daily life this year as it grows.
“It’s like getting shot out of a canon,” Brodie adds, smiling. Visit inclusable.com.au to find out more or download the app from the App Store or Google Play. Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here? Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au
Book Review
Sponsored by Q’s Books
Rebecca
by Daphne du Maurier
‘Last night I dreamt I went to Manderley again.’ The opening sentence of du Maurier’s 1938 bestseller: a superb blend of gothic romance, thrilling detective story and psychological mystery of disturbing thrills. It contains generous helpings of romance, comedy, suspense, melodrama and mystery.
The storyline is about the naïve young second wife of a prominent wealthy Cornish property-owner haunted by the image of his glamorous first wife Rebecca. Mrs Danvers, the sinister housekeeper of the mansion, Manderley, is cold and lifeless, strangely devoted to her dead mistress. She is insanely irritated by the subservience of the mousy second Mrs de Winter, who describes Danvers as having the ‘face of an exulting devil. Danvers is intent on destroying anyone who tries to replace her mistress and, tortured by her grief, turns Manderley into a shrine to the glorious Rebecca. Max de Winter is a charming man with much to hide. He is repressed with a desire to control situations. But he is capable of great loyalty and passionate love and expects devotion in return. He was unfulfilled in his first marriage, but finds a little happiness with his second wife – the unnamed narrator.
When the novel begins, Rebecca is thought to have died a year before from a mysterious accident (or murder). Yet she remains a powerful presence in the lives of the other characters.
Manderley becomes a sinister character in itself. The book is a riveting read: a tale of fear, guilt and power.
Review by John Ramsland
MONEY Matters
with Dominic Brown from Nest Financial Solutions
The Goldilocks Principle
Retirement planning can be compared to the story of Goldilocks. You don’t want your porridge/ investments too hot, nor do you want them too cold. The secret is getting them just right. Some retirees get nervous about the market ups and downs and move all their money to cash –only to find inflation quietly eating away at their savings. Others keep too much in risky investments and panic when the inevitable market dips happen. Neither is ideal.
The “just right” approach is finding a balance between growth and security. Having enough risk to keep your money working but enough stability so you can sleep at night. That’s where smart diversification and a clear income strategy come in. Investing in retirement is not about guessing the market and predicting whether this is going to be a good year for returns. It’s about constructing your portfolio to fund your lifestyle steadily, year after year.
If your retirement plan feels “too hot” or “too cold” it might be time for a review. Through a comprehensive assessment of your finances and individual situation, I can help you find that “just right” balance for your comfort level and goals so you can stop worrying about markets and finances and start enjoying your retirement.
If you would like to understand more about retirement planning and how best to structure your finances and investments then just reach out to me at Nest Financial Solutions and we will organize an appointment.
GENERAL ADVICE WARNING – This article is merely intended to be educational and informative. 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.
VET Chat
with Dr Cassy Macpherson of Elder St Vets
New year, new pets
I have had the pleasure of being introduced to several new puppies and kittens in the last few weeks, a happy occasion by all accounts. This time of year, it is common to see new pets welcomed into homes and I thought I’d take this time to discuss some things to consider with a new puppy or kitten. The most important thing to remember is that these guys are babies, they will require a lot of extra time and training and will go through many changes in their early life.
It’s a wonderful and exciting and stressful time! The staff at Elder Street are more than happy to field any questions you have about your puppies and kittens and even offer a free puppy/kitten check for
animals under 12 weeks of age to facilitate this. We can discuss diet recommendations, make sure they are up to date with worming, heart worm, flea and tick prevention, and recommend some great local puppy preschools to help them learn how to socialize properly. We can also check microchip details and make sure you have the paperwork you need to get your pet officially registered with the council. Your puppy or kitten also gets a fun vet visit with treats that helps reduce their stress and anxiety towards future visits, which is always a plus. They can even get a little pedicure while they are in to show you how to go about trying this at home. With parvovirus and leptospirosis in the area, keeping on top of your puppy or kitten vaccination schedule is also important. One thing a lot of owners forget is that these guys should stay away from public spaces until 10-14 days after their third and final vaccination. House visits with family and friends’ healthy and vaccinated pets is fine, but dog parks, beaches and cafes are not!
Hopefully your new puppy or kitten is settling in well with the rest of the family, but if you have older pets that are less keen on the newcomer we can also offer advice and potentially medications to help ease the transition for these guys. No matter what happens, we will be here to help.
PHARMACY Matters
by Anthony Piggott of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether
Head Lice
Head lice are most often spread through direct head-to-head contact with someone who already has lice. Having head lice is not a sign of poor hygiene, and lice do not carry or spread disease. Anyone can get head lice at any age, although they are most common in children. A pharmacist can provide advice on how to check for and treat head lice.
Head lice are small, wingless insects that live on the scalp and hair. They feed on tiny amounts of blood from the scalp and can only survive for one to two days away from the human head. Female lice lay eggs, known as nits, by gluing them close to the scalp on hair strands, most commonly behind the ears and along the back of the neck. These eggs usually hatch within eight days.
Signs
Adult head lice are about two to three millimetres long and range from white-grey to pale brown. Signs may include an itchy scalp caused by a reaction to lice saliva, visible moving lice in the hair, pale eggs firmly attached near the base of hair strands, and sores on the scalp from scratching. Itching alone is not a reliable sign, as many people with head lice
do not feel itchy. The only way to be certain is to find live lice or eggs.
Finding head lice
Head lice can be difficult to find because they move quickly. Wet combing is the most effective method. Hair conditioner is applied to wet hair to slow the lice, then the hair is divided into sections and combed carefully from the scalp using a fine-toothed lice comb. The comb should be wiped after each stroke to check for lice or eggs.
Treatment
Head lice can be treated by removing them with wet combing or by using a head lice product that kills lice.
Head lice combs
Wet combing should be done every second day until no lice or eggs are found for ten consecutive days. Electronic lice combs can kill live lice but do not remove eggs.
Head lice products
Head lice products are available in several forms and contain different active ingredients. Because lice can become resistant, hair should be checked the day after treatment. If live lice remain, a product with a different active ingredient should be used, following instructions carefully.
Contacts
Schools and close contacts should be informed so they can check and treat if needed. Household members with live lice should be treated at the same time, and children can return to school after the first treatment.
Self care
Ask a pharmacist for advice, check hair regularly, wash personal items in hot water, avoid sharing hair items, and keep long hair tied back to help prevent the spread of head lice.
Here to HELP
with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape
Giving back
Dear Here to Help,
I am at a stage in my career where I want to give back to my community, by helping government make better decisions.
I have worked extensively with small business owners, not-for-profits and charities, to help them become more sustainable. I see how difficult it is for these organisations to operate within ever increasing government red tape, much of which is unnecessarily complex.
Is there a government panel I can join to help government make better decisions and improve the outlook for small businesses, not-for-profits and charities?
It’s so great that you want to give back to your community.
Government is a strange and complex beast. Just like any large, complex organisation (think a big bank or financial institution), if you want your input to be valued and acted on, there are a few steps you need to take and a few options to provide input.
First, do some research – think closely about which part of government you want to work with. There is Federal, State and Local government and each of these has numerous departments and even statutory authorities. Perhaps a good starting place for you might be considering which departments interact with small organisations most, or for which departments you have already identified some quick, easy wins.
Second, look more closely at those departments. Research their values, KPIs, webpages, etc.
Third, if are some names of staff in the departments who deal with the issues you are interested in, ask them if you can have a chat, based on specific alignment of your and their values.
Another option is to talk to your professional or industry association. A key part of association business is government advocacy – see “United We Stand” (Apr2020). Perhaps you could join their advocacy committee?
Again, in the professional or industry association sphere, many Boards have specialist advisors. Would you be interested in joining a Board as an advisor in your expertise, then assisting them with advocacy on those issues?
I’m happy to talk these though with you further.
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
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 11 February at 5.30pm. For more information call Angela on 0422 633 737.
EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD NSW NEWCASTLE BRANCH
The Newcastle Branch is a group of embroiderers who meet every Monday AM and PM at the Church of the Good Shepherd Hall, 101 Joslin Street Kotara. Parking is available on site and in Joslin Street. Our members work on diverse projects and conduct classes. Members have a wealth of knowledge and expertise, which they are willing to share. If you are interested in joining a friendly group of ladies who enjoy various stitching projects, we would love to see you. If you have any enquiries, please contact us on our email NewcastleEmbroiderersGuild@gmail.com Website: https://www.embroiderersguildnsw. org.au/Groups/Newcastle-Branch
To have a free community notice published here email details to admin@hunterlocal. com.au or post to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited/ omitted due to space limitations.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHAMBER MUSIC IN THE HUNTER
Chamber Music in the Hunter presents Elegance & Imagination Sunday 1 March 2026, 2.30pm at Christ Church Cathedral Newcastle. Featuring works by Clara Schumann, Debussy, and Schneider. Journey through three centuries of chamber music, from Classical elegance to Romantic passion to Impressionist shimmer. Experience the intimate conversation of flute, strings, clarinet and piano in ever-changing combinations, as each work reveals new sonic colours and musical possibilities. Tickets available from: https://www.trybooking.com/1505565
MISS PORTER’S HOUSE MUSEUM
Miss Porter’s House is a freestanding Edwardian home, built in 1909 and occupied until 1997. It is situated at 434 King St Newcastle West and is now a National Trust museum containing a century of household memorabilia. On Sunday 8 February, 2026, Miss Porter’s House will be open from 1-4pm. The theme for February is Everyday Objects, the Home and the Curious. Visitors can test their knowledge of the appliances used before the household electrical goods by spotting the butter cooler, mincer, flatiron and potato masher. They can imagine what life was like when washboards, soap savers and dolly pegs were common laundry items. Spend the afternoon reliving the early twentieth century and marvel at how everyday life in Newcastle has changed. Adults $12, Concessions $10, Family $34, National Trust members and children under 5 free. Enquiries phone 4927 0202, email mph@ nationaltrust.com.au or see Miss Porter’s House on Facebook.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
RADIO CONTROL MODEL YACHTS INC
Are you looking for a new interest? This could be for you! Newcastle Radio Yacht Squadron Inc. sail large model racing yachts from Kennedy Cove at Carrington Foreshore at 11:30am every Tuesday and every other Sunday. If you are interested email nrysinc@yahoo.com or phone 0400 605 585. You will be made welcome.
Local Community Group Notices
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
NEWCASTLE FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY
We next meet on Tuesday 3 February at 7.30 pm, Mechanics Institute, Elder Street Lambton. Our guest speaker will tell us about the popularity of ballet in 20th century Newcastle Why was it so popular? Who fostered it? Who were the famed ballet dancers from our town? Everyone is welcome, supper will be served.
RAINBOW CONNECTION
We are a not for profit volunteer singing group in need of two ladies to volunteer to sing around the aged care facilities in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie. We car pool, however you will need your own transport. You must be able to stand for an hour and sing in tune. We also do skits if you feel able to do any, as the residents love them. We practise Tuesdays at Silver Ridge, Wallsend. 10 until 11.30am. We perform on either Thursday or Friday of every second week. From 10.30 until 11.30am. If you wish to join us after, we then go to lunch around the areas where we sing. We are already booked out for 2026. This is our 20th year singing. We have 16 ladies at present and sing unaccompanied as a group. If you are interested please phone Narelle Chesterfield 4965 6449 or 0408 292 084 and leave a message.
SENIORS
GROUPS
NEWCASTLE MEN’S PROBUS CLUB
Retired gentlemen we would love to meet you. Our club provides great social outings, regular monthly meetings, for friendship, fellowship and fun in retirement. Why not drop into our regular 4th Tuesday of the month meetings at Souths Leagues Club Merewether? You will be warmly welcomed, enjoy some refreshments and a guest speaker. Our next meeting is on Tuesday 24 February. Guest speaker is retired Police Deputy Superintendant Deborah Wallace. Meetings start at 10.30am - please arrive by 10.15am so we can meet and greet you. Contact Brian Prior on 0415 081 610 or www.newcastleprobus.org
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
NEWCASTLE LADIES’ PROBUS
This is an invitation to join Newcastle Ladies’ Probus. We meet on the first Wednesday of the month at 10.30 at Wests Newcastle. We are a friendly group of ladies and we have a variety of activities which include coffee mornings, a walking group, lunches and other outings. Each month we have an interesting guest speaker. For more information contact Margaret 0417 663 064 or Marjorie 0416 191 667
LAMBTON SENIORS GROUP
Interested in playing cards? Canasta is a great social game and is played every Thursday from 9.30 am to 1.30 pm at Club Lambton (the bowling club next to Lambton Pool. You’ll be most welcome and we’ll happily teach you, either from scratch or just refresh your knowledge. Free off street parking. Phone Nola 0421 552 372 or Des 0419 694 096.
To have a free community notice published here email details to admin@hunterlocal. com.au or post to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited/ omitted due to space limitations.
Local Classifieds...
FOR SALE
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
GARDEN POTS
Assorted plastic and terracotta pots. Prices from 50c each Ph 0421 003 693
KANGAROO PAW
Red/green & yellow kangaroo paw plants, approx. 350mm high, locally grown, very healthy, growing in 200mm pots, pick up Kotara. $6 each or 4 for $20. Bulk amount available. Ph 0402 632 474
FREE
QUEEN BED
Queen size bed ensemble free. Ph 0438 577 468 or 0408 830 883
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
They’re free & they work! Send us yours by 15th of the month.
CROSSWORD
SOLUTION
FROM PAGE 28
NOTICES
ANTIQUE CLOCK SERVICES
Servicing many types of antique mechanical clocks including Mantles, Grandfathers, Wallclocks. American, English, French, German
Keep your clocks alive and ticking... Call Malcolm on 0466 152 028
CAT FOR REHOMING
Free to good home male Russian Blue cat, registered, desexed, microchipped, approx 9 yrs old, good nature, loves lying in the sun, comes with pet carrier and cat dry. Rehoming due to owner’s age, ill health and allergies. Cat has been well cared for in Newcastle area. Please call/ text, not voicemail Ph 0401 002 037
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
CLEANER
Reliable, local, experienced residential cleaner available. Top references. Weekly or fortnightly, $25 per hr (3 hrs minimum) Ph 0493 054 207
NOTICES
John and Nola Donohue
Married 5th January 1953 Happy 73rd Anniversary with love from family and friends
Local Classifieds...
HANDYMAN
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
They’re free & they work! Got something to sell? Email us at admin@hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of the month.
Medical
Receptionist
Kotara Bowling Club
2 Howell St, Kotara
Complimentary tea & coffee
Call Lorraine 0411 422 300 or Lorraine.norton88 @bigpond.com
For a local practitioner, working remotely and at times from New Lambton office, attending to emails, texts, telephone communications. Previous experience well regarded but not essential. Casual role, $32 per hour. Email paulettecalabro@hotmail. com for more detail.
GOLF BUGGY OR SIMILAR
All painting & gyprock repairs, plus most services in small renovation works. 30 years experience. Insured. Phone Jamie Ph 0423 233 727 LOCAL
New Lambton FC, a not-forprofit community group, seeks a second-hand golf buggy / UTV, electric preferred, for game-day transport, maintenance and injured player transport etc. Low cost or donation please. Club can arrange pick up if required Phone David Ph 429 994 343
WANTED TO BUY SLIDE PROJECTOR
Wanting to buy a 35mm slide projector. Must be in good working order. Price negotiable Ph 0432 090 253
3 SEATER LOUNGE
Wanting to buy a three seater floral or checked fabric lounge with rolled arms and round timber legs. Must be in good condition. Willing to pay up to $400 for the right lounge in the right condition Ph 0478 844800
CLASSIFIEDS
They’re free & they work! Send us yours by 15th of the month to PO Box 130 Jesmond 2299
SOMETHING TO SELL OR TO TELL? TRY FREE
THEY WORK!
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.
