Fifteen residential properties in New Lambton were evacuated after heavy rain during May led to a major landslip.
The homes, on Russell Road, Victoria Street, Baker Street and Portland Place have remained unoccuppied, behind temporary fencing and police tape since then.
The initial emergency response was managed by NSW Police with the involvement of the SES, City of Newcastle, utilities providers and welfare services until late in June.
Lord mayor Ross Kerridge, speaking at the 17 June council meeting, said that “Up until now police have been in charge of the response, but we’re coming to time for transitioning away from that”.
continued on page 4
Steve Sue Scott
Russell Rd resident Laura Jackel and her son Leo at the site of the New Lambton landslip
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
with
LOCAL Matters
Mark Brooker
Publisher of The Local
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So what’s your plan?
Imagine having to leave your home, your pets and everything that is yours with only a few minutes notice. And on top of that imagine not knowing when you might be able to return.
That’s the position that 15 local households on Russell Rd, Victoria St, Baker St and Portland Pl New Lambton found themselves in when the ground beneath and around their homes began to fall away following very heavy and sustained rainfall in May.
Now, I have not surveyed those households, so I may be wrong, but I’m guessing most would have been underprepared for an emergency evacuation.
And that’s fair enough. After all, who expects to be woken during the night by emergency responders and told they must leave their home right now?
The truth is no one expects that to happen to them.
Now that we’ve seen this happen in one of our local suburbs it’s time we all had a plan.
If you had to leave your home in a hurry, without knowledge of when you could return, would you be able to pick up that one bag or box that had the esentials in it.
Clothes can be bought, as can food. I’m thinking those irreplacable memories and documents, maybe old photos, but definitely passports, and other important documents.
One tip I heard recently was to write your important phone numbers down somewhere (and put them in the emergency bag or box).
If my phone was to go flat I would be hard pressed to remember any of the phone numbers important to me. How about you?
Community facility & cafe for Blackbutt
City of Newcastle has delivered the last major milestone in a shared vision for Blackbutt Reserve after officially opening the doors today on its new $3.2 million multipurpose community facility.
Located in the Carnley Avenue recreation area, the environmental education, meeting and function space and cafe forms part of Blackbutt Reserve’s Plan of Management, which was developed following community consultation.
An accessible path around the adjacent lawn area was also installed as part of the project, to create better connections between the play space, amenities, animal exhibits, café and community facility.
Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability, Marnie Kikken, said City of Newcastle is committed to protecting and enhancing the much-loved destination for the whole community.
“Blackbutt Reserve plays an important role in our vision of Newcastle as a smart, liveable and sustainable city where we celebrate our unique qualities and
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley, Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison and City of Newcastle Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability, Marnie Kikken join Blackbutt Reserve staff and some special friends at the opening of the new $3.2 million multipurpose community facility and café.
protect our natural assets,” Ms Kikken said.
“This will be enhanced with the opening of our new multipurpose community facility and café, which will further encourage residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the green heart of our city.”
The project was partially funded by the NSW Government’s Resources for Regions grant program.
The building was officially opened by Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley and Member for Charlestown Jodie Harrison in June.
continued from front page
With a view to that transition City of Newcastle representatives including the CEO and lord mayor met with the Reconstruction Authority requesting that it take the lead role in the recovery phase.
Cr Kerridge said that he was “profoundly dissappointed” by the Reconstruction Authority’s response that it was focussed on flood recovery and did not see a role for itself at New Lambton.
The impacted residents “deserve the same compassion, structure, and state-level support” as those impacted by floods elsewhere in NSW”
Cr Kerridge added.
Geotechnical and engineering work will be undertaken in coming weeks and months to determine when or if the 39 residents can reoccupy their homes.
Photo courtesy of David Couri
Scoop’s heroic story told
New Lambton’s Alan Playford has lived an extraordinary life of service, courage, and quiet heroism, even before the day he crawled from the rubble of the Newcastle Workers Club during the 1989 earthquake. That moment, captured in headlines around the world, saw Alan hailed as a national hero after rescuing Norm Duffy from beneath the debris. But for those who knew him, it was just one chapter in a far greater story.
Known as ‘Scoop’ among colleagues, Alan had already played a crucial role in transforming the ambulance service in Australia—modernising equipment, advocating for change and helping to establish helicopter rescue operations. His vision and determination were reshaping the very practice of paramedicine.
Alan’s memoir Through the Rubble, written with Penny Keogh and published by Big Sky Publishing, is set for release this month. The book’s launch, hosted by ABC radio presenter Scott Bevan, will be held at Newcastle Museum from 6-7pm on Thursday 10 July.
Attending the launch is free. To book go to: newcastlemuseum.com.au/what-s-on/current-events/ author-event-alan-playford-through-the-rubble
$1 million funding for park cafe
Constructed in the 1940s as a baby health centre, a building backing on to Lambton Park’s playground will be modernised into an accessible café designed to become a hub for social connection and inclusion.
The project recently received a $1 million boost through the NSW Government’s Crown Reserves Improvement Fund.
City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Corporate Services David Clarke said the project will enhance the community’s use and enjoyment of the popular Lambton Park precinct.
“We are committed to delivering a range of projects that nurture connected, inclusive communities,” Mr Clarke said.
“We thank the NSW Government for its investment into this project, which will help deliver the first major adaptive reuse of this historic building since it’s construction more than 80 years ago.
Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery said “Lambton Park is an important space for our community and this funding will enable continued use of historic building.”
L to R: City of Newcastle’s Executive Director of Corporate Services David Clarke, Member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery and Chair of City of Newcastle’s Infrastructure Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Peta Winney-Baartz, at the former Lambton baby health centre
Other plumbers may prioritise commercial projects, at Flowstate we’re dedicated to residential work. We take the time to understand your concerns and work with you to find the solution that best fits your needs and budget.
Big screen back in Lambton
Not since the screen went dark at the old Kings Theatre in 1984 has Lambton had film screenings.
Newcastle Theatre Company’s Laneway Theatre Flicks has changed that for the better. Already renowned for the number and quality of stage productions it delivers each season, the offering at the playhouse in De Vitre Street now includes a selection of movies each month.
Laneway Theatre Flicks is just one part of a transformation which reflects a broader, bolder vision according to Newcastle Theatre Company president Zac Smith.
“Laneway Theatre is no longer just a home for the Theatre Company - it’s a space for the entire creative community.”
Newcastle Theatre Company’s De Vitre Street facilities have been renamed Laneway Theatre
Book your tickets for July’s Laneway Theatre Flicks at: https://au.patronbase.com/_ LanewayTheatre/Productions or contact the Box Office on 4952 4958 or office@ newcastletheatrecompany.com. au.
NOW SHOWING IN JULY
SUNDAY 6 JULY AT 6.30PM
EV expansion charges ahead
A project to triple Newcastle’s public electric vehicle (EV) charging network is nearing completion, with 34 new charging ports being added across 11 locations citywide.
Local and visiting EV drivers have are already enjoying the convenience of an expanded charging network, with new chargers operational at Lambton, Wallsend, Hamilton, Stockton, Adamstown, Mayfield, Newcastle, Newcastle East and Wickham.
Executive Director Planning and Environment Michelle Bisson said the new public chargers installed by City of Newcastle will benefit the growing number of EV drivers and encourage others to make the switch.
“Our Newcastle Environment
Strategy has a target of 52% of all new car registrations being EVs by 2030-31,” Ms Bisson said.
“The signs are already encouraging, with more than 1,350 EVs currently registered in Newcastle, a number which has risen by more than 1000% in the past four years.
“One of the challenges, however, is that many drivers lack access to off-street parking to charge an EV.
The installation of the new chargers is co-funded by a $270,000 grant from the NSW Government as part of the EV Kerbside Charging Grants (the program).
Minister for the Hunter Yasmin Catley said the NSW Government has approved $4.1 million in co-funding to install
671 EV charging ports in 16 local government areas, including Newcastle, during round one of the program.
“Investing in EV charging infrastructure is about making sure Newcastle is keeping up with the growing demand for electric vehicles,” Minister Catley said.
Chair of City of Newcastle’s Strategy and Innovation Strategic Advisory Committee, Councillor Declan Clausen, welcomed the roll-out of public EV charging infrastructure, which is a key deliverable in the Newcastle Environment Strategy.
“Tripling the number of public EV chargers is an important step towards our city-wide transition to net zero emissions,” Cr Clausen said.
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.
Is your letterbox feeling lucky?
If one of the letterboxes pictured above is yours, you’ve won a $25 shopping voucher from one of three great local retailers. Phone Mark at Local on 0455 210 000 by 18 July 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 best dressed with the choice
The vouchers must be claimed by 18 July and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 31 August 2025.
Congratulations to the residents of 34 Percy Street North Lambton who claimed a prize by correctly identifying their letterboxes in June.
The Local Quiz
Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Ruby Crossley of New Lambton. Ruby has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy. Last month’s mystery photo was the mural on the side of New Lambton Library. 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 - For how many years have Delma and Frank Murray been married?
Question 2 - How many electric vehicles (EVs) are currently registered in Newcastle?
Question 3 - In which country was Holmes Samuel Chipman born?
Question 4 -Where is the new indoor venue for Art
Hey neighbours!
Frank & Del Murray
Frank and Delma Murray have loved each other through many seasons.
It’s fitting, then, that the traditional gift for an 80th wedding anniversary is oak, as it symbolises the strength, stability, and longevity of their bond. They celebrated the milestone anniversary on 16 June, surrounded by family and fellow residents of Maroba aged care facility in Waratah.
The centenarians have now been recognised as Australia’s oldest married couple.
“I’ve loved her all these years and that’ll never change,” Frank said fondly.
Frank, 101, and Del, 100, lived in the same North Lambton home from 1969 to 2023, where they raised their daughters, Sandra and Joy.
A well-known face on Elder Street and a licenced driver until the age
by Georgia Osland
Frank and Delma Murray, at home at Maroba aged care at Waratah, are Australia’s oldest married couple
of 100, Frank was still mowing the lawn right up until the day before he and Del moved to Maroba.
As spry and charismatic as he is, Frank had to win Del’s heart when they first met as teenagers.
The meet cute came at a mutual friend’s birthday party when they were just 15 and 16 years old.
“Like a good girl, I went home, and mum asked me the next day if I’d met anybody at the party,” Del recalled.
“I said, yes, there was one–I should’ve said cheeky–boy. It took me a while to warm to him. He’s still as cheeky as ever; you don’t have to be in his company long to find that out.”
The pair were married a few years later, on 16 June 1945 at St Mark’s church in Islington.
Frank was serving in the Australian Army in the 6th Machine Gun Battalion at the time and snuck away to tie the knot, missing the boat back to New Guinea.
“I must’ve wanted to see her really badly,” he said.
The couple took on the challenges of war then raised a family.
There was plenty of joy, too, as they travelled around Australia and overseas to England, Hong Kong, and New Zealand, and welcomed five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
“We’ve had a really good life,” Del said. “I wouldn’t have done anything differently.”
They’re still learning new things about each other, with Del coming to understand and appreciate their differences that make them “yin and yang”.
“You have to learn to give a bit and be tolerant of one another and things will work out,” she added.
Perhaps there’s no secret to a long marriage – just two people who make a conscious choice, day after day, until you look back and 80 years have passed.
Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here? Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au
The Shared Table
We are hosting some monthly community lunches to celebrate the cultural diversity of Jesmond and surrounds. Community members will cook and share unique cultural dishes and cooking tips from their country of origin. Each lunch will showcase a different culture and will be FREE The lunches will be held at 12.00noon Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre (44 Mordue Pde)
To make a booking at either lunch please contact Elizabeth elizabethh@thecanopy.org.au | 4950
Bookings
You can register as an individual or as a couple. Children under school age are welcome to join you - please also register their name
Why Sell with Premier Estate Agents?
Selling your home is a big deal, and we get that. At Premier Estate Agents, we’re here to make the process clearer, less stressful, and truly personal. We’ve helped hundreds of Newcastle homeowners achieve outstanding results by focusing on what matters most: you!
Here’s how we work:
• We listen to what you need and hope to achieve.
• We keep you informed with honest, up-to-date advice.
• We bring clarity with a clear plan to get the best outcome.
• We work with you to create a strategy that fits your goals.
If you’re looking for a real estate team that values trust, care, and results - you’ve found it!
Get in before the Spring rush.
Call for a free selling appraisal today.
Yankee doodle diddle
The image on the facing page is of a shop in 1904 in New Lambton. It is a fine example of Ralph Snowball’s technical and aesthetic excellence in documenting the commercial life of his town.
I have long wanted to write a story on Thompson’s store, but my knowledge to date can be expressed in a single sentence: Joseph Thompson operated a store on the south-west corner of Hobart and Wallarah Roads from 1901 to 1910.
However, as with many Snowball photographs a close inspection reveals a wealth of detail, such as the advertisements on the shed wall. Researching
mouth guards teeth whitening
them led to some unexpected places.
A search of the product names reveals that the United States Trading Company exhibited a collection of Nirvana Tea and Yankee Doodle Jams at the 1903 Newcastle Show.
The company was run by Holmes Samuel Chipman, who proved to be a somewhat ‘creative’ entrepreneur.
Chipman was born in Canada in 1850 and moved to the United States in 1868 for study and work. In 1879 he arrived in Australia and established himself as a merchant.
From 1881 he began a relentless campaign of registering a multitude of trademarks and patents for an astonishing variety of products: agricultural tools, musical instruments, medicinal remedies, cosmetics, hairbrushes, clocks, heating and illuminating oils, bicycles, carriage parts, and various foods and drinks.
In 1883 he registered the trademark “Dr. Scott” to be used for “electric flesh brushes and electric tooth charms.” The nature of these devices was
LAMBTON: 33 Morehead St • Ph 4952 1455
WALLSEND: 16 Council St • Ph 4950 0127
WEB: winningsmilesdentureclinic.com.au
Joseph Thompson’s store in New Lambton, 7 May 1904. Photo by Ralph Snowball. University of Newcastle, Living Histories. Facing page below left : A closeup of the advertisements for Nirvana Tea and Yankee Doodle Jam.
(from previous page)
one rabbit hole too many for this writer and I leave them as an exercise for the reader’s imagination.
In 1904 Chipman’s business empire crashed, having accumulated £27,500 of debt, equivalent to $5 million today.
In bankruptcy court Chipman admitted setting up multiple companies for the purpose of deceiving banks into providing loans.
In August 1905 the US Trading Company was wound up and Yankee Doodle Jam faded into history except for Snowball’s photo of Thompson’s store.
The corner store may be long gone, but shonky businesses and financial fraud linger on.
You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com
Above:
HOW TO KEEP YOUR HOME CLEAN
WHEN LIFE GETS BUSY IN NEWCASTLE
Keeping your home or workplace clean isn’t just about appearances – it’s about health, comfort and creating a space you actually enjoy being in. Whether you’re a busy professional, a family juggling school runs and work, or a business owner who values spotless premises, having a dependable cleaning service on hand can make all the difference.
In Newcastle, cleaning companies offer everything from routine housekeeping to deep cleans and end-of-tenancy services. With so many options available, deciding whom to hire can feel daunting. This guide highlights a handful of highly reputable local companies – all known for solid reviews and consistent results – to help you narrow the field with confidence.
Different Types of Cleaning Services in Newcastle
l Regular domestic cleaning – Dusting, vacuuming, mopping, plus kitchen and bathroom upkeep to keep day-to-day mess under control.
l Deep or spring cleaning – An intensive, top-to-bottom service that tackles grime in neglected or hard-to-reach spots.
l End-of-lease / end-of-tenancy cleaning – Detailed, checklist-driven cleans aimed at securing bond returns and meeting landlord or agent standards.
l Commercial and office cleaning – After-hours or scheduled services for offices, shops and medical practices that must meet professional hygiene levels.
l Specialist services – Carpet and upholstery cleaning, window washing, pressure washing, post-renovation cleans, and more.
Whatever the task, there’s a Newcastle-based team equipped to handle it efficiently and professionally.
Final Thoughts
From routine spruce-ups to comprehensive end-of-tenancy cleans, Newcastle boasts cleaning professionals ready to take the load off your shoulders. Read reviews, request quotes and choose the team whose approach best fits your needs – a cleaner home or office is just a booking away.
Featured Cleaning Companies in Newcastle
Below are some of the city’s reputable cleaning businesses, selected for their strong local standing, customer feedback and reliable service.
NEWCASTLE CLASSIC CLEANING
Newcastle Classic Cleaning is a trusted familyrun business delivering expert commercial cleaning services across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and Maitland. Known for professionalism, reliability and attention to detail, their team has built lasting client relationships since 2004; providing spotless, welcoming spaces for businesses through exceptional service and long-standing satisfaction.
Website: newcastleclassiccleaning.com.au
Phone: (02) 4058 5815
Rating: 5H
SENSIBILITY ETHICAL CLEANING
Offering a refreshing, detail-focused alternative to cookie-cutter cleaning services - tailored for homes, offices, and NDIS participants. Committed to health and sustainability, they use only non-toxic, plant-based products. Free from synthetic chemicals, their ecoconscious approach supports a safer, more inviting environment. With a small, consistent team, they deliver cleaning that’s thoughtful, thorough, and ethically grounded.
Website: sensibilityec.au
Phone: (02) 0410 472 117
Rating: 5H
CRYSTAL WOLF CLEANING
Dedicated to making life easier for busy families by providing safe, low-toxicity cleaning solutions that create a clean, healthy home. Founded by Mel, a mum who wanted to eliminate harsh chemicals from her home, she combined her extensive experience managing McDonald’s stores with a passion for natural living. Offering flexible services tailored to fit the busy rhythms of everyday life, supported by a team largely made up of like-minded mums.
Website: crystalwolfcleaning.com.au
Phone: (02) 4031 6203
Rating: 4.4H
by Percival Everett
Benjamin Stevenson
Claire Keegan
James
The Crash by Freida McFadden
Setting the scene – Advocacy 101
Dear Here to Help,
I am the CEO of a small professional association. We want to advocate on behalf of our members and profession. Where do I start?
Hi,
Before you get started, it’s important to “set the scene”.
Sometimes, people come to me with a “solution” and examples that feel as though they have been retrofitted to that “solution”. Or even one example and a “solution” that feels retrofitted to that example.
So, let’s start with setting the scene. There are two simple steps to “setting the scene.”
First, describe your problem, as though you are explaining it to a friend who doesn’t know anything about your work.
Do it out loud! This may feel silly, but saying things out loud helps you explain simply and clearly. Now write it down – again, as though it were an email or letter to that friend. This should be 1-3 paragraphs and a maximum of one half page. Add a real-life story. All up, this should be under one page.
So, that’s part one of “setting the scene” finished. And you have made it personal – and relatablewith your story.
Second, brainstorm solutions for the problem you described. Once you have a list of solutions, look at what they all have in common. This should be a higher-level solution, that makes our whole
community a better place to live, work and do business in.
This is part two of your “scene setting” – your broad aim. You can start slotting individual solutions in here. If a solution doesn’t fit your broad aim, refine either the solution or the aim.
Let’s take an example.
An allied health professional association wants private health funds to create a new benefit category for that profession.
Problem – consumers are not necessarily aware that they can claim private health fund benefits for consultations with these allied health professionals. Broad Aim – raise awareness among consumers that benefits are available for consultations with these allied health professionals.
What we have done here is look at the problem our initial “solution” is trying to solve.
By approaching advocacy this way, we have broadened our advocacy opportunities and created new ways to work with private health funds to educate their members, rather than just advocating to them.
I look forward to hearing how you go.
Sonia
Hornery MP State Member for Wallsend
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.
MONEY Matters
with Dominic Brown from Nest Financial Solutions
Why market crashes can be a good thing
Although this may sound like an odd statement to make and whilst it is far nicer to see your superannuation balance going up, a market crash is not necessarily a bad thing.
Firstly they are a normal part of investing and whilst markets can be volatile in the short term, they become far more predictable in the long term. There has never been a crash that share markets have not recovered from. Historically markets have dropped due to all manner of reasons. There is no reason to think that the next crash is somehow going to be
different to anything that has happened in the past. Another reason why crashes can be a good thing, particularly if you are still contributing into super, is that they allow you to invest at a lower level. To get more bang for your buck. Maybe those CBA shares that used to cost $150, your super is now buying for $100. Buying in at these lower levels means that you are starting to make a profit on those investments as soon as the recovery begins. You don’t have to wait until the markets gets back to its pre-crash levels to break even.
Finally it is often the case that when markets bounce back, they bounce back strongly. Some of the best years to invest are often some of the years that follow the worst years. The Great Depression, the GFC, the covid crash etc were all difficult times to invest but the recovery after these events saw periods of strong returns.
It can be worrying to see your investments struggling during a crash but keep calm and maybe the recovery is just around the corner.
GENERAL ADVICE WARNING – This article is merely intended to be education 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
Dental disease
Does your pet suffer from bad breath? When did you last have a close look at your furry friend’s teeth? Dental disease is once of the most common ailments that is picked up on routine health checks at the vets, and often comes as a surprise to pet owners as it gets overlooked at home. By 3 years of age, 80% of dogs, and 70% of cats are suffering from early stages of dental disease.
Dental disease is caused by bacteria forming plaque (a soft, fuzzy layer that grows on your and your pets’ teeth) that is constantly building up by the hour. If it is not removed within 12-24 hours of forming it begins to form tartar, a hard, discoloured layer that sets like cement on teeth. Once tartar has formed, it is really
hard to remove without advanced cleaning techniques performed at the vets. Over time, these changes become irreversible as the bacteria penetrate the gums and tooth root, causing pain and inflammation. At this point affected teeth need to be extracted to ease your pets’ discomfort and remove the infection. There are a number of things that can be done to slow to development of dental disease in your pets. Chewing activities for 15 minutes per day with hard foods such as dental treats, jerky, rawhide chews, and carrots help to remove plaque before it turns to tartar. There are several dental specific dry food diets that are great for assisting in this endeavour. If your pet doesn’t like to chew or doesn’t chew evenly, there are food additives, mouthwashes, and water additives that help to prevent plaque from adhering to teeth. By far the best thing (and the most labour intensive) you can do at home is brush your pets’ teeth – there are pet toothbrushes and finger brushes available, and flavoured pet toothpastes to encourage the activity, but it should be done daily to be effective (if you only brushed your teeth once a week, how would they look?).
August is Dental Month at Elder Street Vets, where people are encouraged to bring your pets in for free dental checks. Get in early as there are limited spots available to get your pet’s teeth cleaned and their breath smelling fresh once more.
PHARMACY Matters
by Anthony Piggott of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether
Vitamins
Our bodies need vitamins to stay healthy. Vitamins help body cells work properly, and can also help to treat some health problems. The best source of most vitamins is a healthy diet. Some people also need to take vitamin supplements, but taking more vitamins than your body needs can be harmful. Ask a doctor, pharmacist, dietitian or naturopath for advice.
Types of vitamins
Body cells need vitamins, but if you take more vitamins than your body needs, the levels in your body can build up and cause side effects. This is more of a risk with the fat-soluble vitamins.
Healthy eating
Nutrient Reference Values (NRVs) and Recommended Dietary Intakes (RDIs) are guides to the amounts of vitamins your body needs each day. Most people can get their daily vitamin needs by eating a healthy, balanced diet that includes a lot of different foods.
A healthy, balanced diet means:
• eating a wide variety of healthy foods every day
• drinking enough water every day to satisfy your thirst and to keep your urine ‘light-coloured’ (unless a doctor advises you not to)
• having no more than two standard alcohol drinks a day.
The way food is prepared and cooked can reduce its vitamin content.
To keep the vitamins in food:
• prepare food just before serving
• cook vegetables for only a short time (e.g. steam or microwave)
• wash and scrub vegetables instead of peeling them
• re-use cooking water in gravies, soups and stews
• leave vegetables in large pieces and do not soak them before cooking.
Vitamin supplements
You may not get enough vitamins in your diet to stay healthy if you have:
• a poor diet (e.g. eat a lot of ‘junk’ food)
• a diet low in certain foods for health, cultural or religious reasons (e.g. people following a vegan diet)
• a need for extra vitamins (e.g. while recovering from illness or surgery, while pregnant or breastfeeding)
• a lifestyle that can reduce vitamin levels (e.g. get no sun on your skin, smoke cigarettes, consume a large amount of alcohol, use illegal drugs)
• a medical condition that can affect vitamin levels (e.g. coeliac disease, ulcerative colitis, cystic fibrosis, gastrectomy)
• medicines that can affect vitamin levels (check with your pharmacist) If you don’t get enough vitamins from your diet, you may need to take vitamin supplements. Vitamin supplements are available as tablets, capsules and liquids.
Sometimes, vitamins are best given as an injection. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice.
Vitamin doses
It is very important to take a vitamin supplement at the dose recommended on the label. Get medical advice first if you want to take more. Taking high doses of some vitamins can increase the risk of side effects.
Local Community Group Notices
CHILDREN
& FAMILIES
HOME-START FAMILY SERVICES
Home-Start is a voluntary service offering support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under five where parents are experiencing difficulty in their parenting roles or are under stress. For information about volunteering or Home-Start services ph 4952 9488 or go to: www.homestartaustralia.org/
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 9 July at 5.30pm. For more information call Angela on 0422 633 737.
LAMBTON-NEW LAMBTON RSL SUB-BRANCH
Invites veterans who served in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO) between 1991 and 2021 to attend a Commemorative Service at Club Lambton, Karoola Rd Lambton on Sunday 20 July commencing at 11am. Intersted members of the community are warmly invited to attend.For more information please email: lambton-newlambtonsb@rslnsw.org.au
LIFE CHANGES
If you are looking for friendship with people who have experienced the loss of a wife, husband or partner, you may like to join our Life Changes group. We meet the first Monday of each month at the Blackbutt Hotel Orchardtown Road New Lambton, commencing at 10.30am for coffee or drink, then move into the dining room for an informal gathering. Sometimes, we have a guest speaker, or an activity followed by lunch. We are finished by 1.30pm. There is no counselling, we are non-religious, just being together with people who have experienced that same huge loss. Come and enjoy our company. Please note new contact is Lyn on 0407 694 173
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 MEN’S PROBUS CLUB
Retired gentlemen take note. Newcastle Men’s Probus Club provides great social outings, regular monthly meetings, for friendship, fellowship and fun in retirement. We love to welcome visitors at our meetings. 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. The meetings start at 9:30am - please arrive by 9:15am so we can meet and greet you. We would love to meet you at our next meeting. Contact Brian Prior on 0415 081 610 or www. newcastleprobus.org
NEW LAMBTON LADIES BOWLING CLUB
We are seeking ladies to join our bowling club on our all weather greens. We play Tuesday morinigs from 10am, Saturdays from 1pm and Thursday mixed from 10am. Free coaching is available to Wests members. For more information phone Marion on 0408 433 893.
To have a free community notice published on this page email the details to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.
Open: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 4.45pm Saturday 7.30am to 11.45am
Closed Wednesdays for fishing!
Local Classifieds...
FOR SALE
AIR FRYER
Stirling air fryer in good condition, $80 o.n.o. Ph 0435 475 619
BAR STOOLS
Two chrome bar stools with black seats $40 o.n.o. Ph 0412 157 421
BUDGERIGARS
Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15 Ph 0456 919 046
FAMILY TABLE SETTING
Oak grain solid oak table setting with 4 chairs, excellent condition $650, will consider nearest offer Ph 0435 475 619
FREEZER
Hisense freezer, 2 metres high, drawers, frost free, great condition $650, will consider nearest offer Ph 0435 475 619
GARDEN POTS
Assorted plastic an terracotta pots. Prices from 50c each Ph 0421 003 693
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
LADIES WINTER FASHION
Ladies winter clothing items, sizes 12-14, quality brands eg Metalicus, Donna Donna, DIO, Laura Ashley, Vigorella, Country Road. Also as new tan leather boots size 40 Ph 0404 502 140
PILATES EQUIPMENT
Pilates chair, as new, $40 o.n.o., pilates reformer, very good condition, with manual, $40 o.n.o. Ph 0412 157 421
NOTICES
CLEANING SERVICE
Traci & Angie’s Cleaning Service. End of lease cleans, spring cleans and eco cleaning. All ironing and sewing services. Ph 0412 877 763
CONGRATULATIONS
To Jeff Evans who won two tickets to see ’Macbeth’ at Newcastle Theatre Company in June.
NOTICES
EXPERIENCED SUPPORT WORKER SEEKING LIVE-IN ROLE
Fully qualified and insured disability and aged care support worker with over 10 years experience. I offer respectful, compassionate care and am seeking a livein position for myself and my 14-year-old son. I’m also a capable handywoman— skilled in yard work, housework, cooking, cleaning, and home maintenance. Ideal for someone who values independence, enjoys travel or hobbies, and wants peace of mind knowing their home is cared for and they have companionship when home. Let’s chat about how I can support your lifestyle and wellbeing. Ph 0415 420 045
HANDYMAN
All painting and gyprock repairs, plus most services in small renovation works. 30 years experience. Insured. Phone Jamie Ph 0423 233 727
Local Classifieds...
NOTICES
GENTLE FLOW YOGA
New beginnings! Connect & Strengthen
Join us at Gentle Flow Yoga classes, inviting weekly self care and relaxation. Prioritise finding the balance with time out for yourself to enhance your wellbeing and happiness. New Friday class available. Begin with others starting out & enjoy the benefits of a gentle yoga practice. Seniors welcome. Gift vouchers available. Inquiries and bookings: Michelle Pirie
0400 790 479
(Dip Yoga Teaching IYTA)
Kotara Bowling Club 2 Howell St, Kotara Complimentary tea & coffee Call Lorraine 0411 422 300 or Lorraine.norton88 @bigpond.com
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