The Local - May 2026

It’s our 12th birthday!

Like us on Facebook or go to www.thelocalnewcastle.com.au for more news • Issue No 142 • Newcastle’s favourite little community newspaper • May 2026 •

Gav storms in Gavin Morris will be sworn in as Newcastle’s 16th lord mayor in May

Gavin Morris produced an historic result in April’s byelection to become lord mayor of Newcastle.

The former NBN Television news and weather presenter attracted more than 51% of first preference votes across the Newcastle local government area, achieving an emphatic endorsement from the electorate.

Greens lord mayoral candidate Charlotte McCabe received just under 20% and Labor’s Declan Clausen a little over 16% of first preference votes. Liberal Jenny Barrie garnered just 7% while Steve O’Brien from the Socialist Alliance and Milton Caine Independent acheived 3% and 2% respectively.

The by-election was triggered by Dr Ross Kerridge’s resignation due to health concerns earlier this year.

Speaking to The Local, lord mayor-elect Morris said he was really pleased that the community had spoken in favour of the role of lord mayor being independent of the big parties.

“I think it’s pretty clear the majority of residents want a lord mayor that answers to them, and them alone.”

continued on page 4

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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 June issue will close on Friday 15 May 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...

....and here’s some fine print Readers, advertisers and community groups are encouraged to contribute to The Local with news items, community events and any matter of general interest to residents of the area. In contributing news items the contributor accepts that such information may or may not be published in print and/or online using websites and social media channels at the sole discretion of the publisher.

No guarantee of publication is ever implied by this invitation to contribute.

Except where noted otherwise, all information, photographs, text and images, within The Local is subject to copyright. Material may not be reproduced and/or distributed in whole or part in any form without the prior, explicit consent of the publisher.

The Local is proudly printed in Newcastle and is 100% recyclable. Please recycle it, but only after you’ve read it!

ABN 48 260 331 896

Page 2 > The Local > May 2026

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

ANZAC shines on

Attending local commemorations on 25 April I was in awe of the continued suppport ANZAC Day enjoys in our community.

That it happened to fall on a sunny Saturday of a long weekend no doubt boosted crowds.

But the enduring affection we hold for ANZAC Day is not driven by spectacle or ceremony alone.

I think it’s something deeper — an instinctive respect for sacrifice, service, and shared history.

ANZAC Day has evolved over more than a century, yet its meaning has not diminished. If anything, it has grown stronger. Younger Australians, removed by multiple generations from the wars that shaped the original ANZAC story, continue to turn up in large numbers.

They stand beside veterans, families, and strangers, united in a moment that feels both solemn and uniquely Australian.

Part of this enduring connection lies in the values ANZAC Day represents: courage, mateship, resilience, and humility. These are qualities Australians like to see in themselves, even as the nation changes. The day is not about glorifying conflict, but about recognising the human cost of it, and honouring those who bore it.

There is also something profoundly local about ANZAC Day services in our suburbs. They have an intimacy that national ceremonies cannot replicate. Names on local memorials are not unknown soldiers, but the relatives of our friends, neighbours and other community members.

In this fast-moving world, ANZAC Day remains a constant. We continue to hold it close — not out of habit, but out of genuine, enduring respect.

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Big John a Freeman Almost 50 years of raising money, toys and awareness for families in need has earned Big John Young Newcastle’s greatest acknowledgement after being named a Freeman of the City in April.

Since coordinating the first Bikers for Kids Newcastle Toy Run in 1978, Big John has dedicated decades of his life to helping the event grow into one of the region’s most well-known and largest charity drives, with more than 13,000 motorcycle riders turning out in support in 2025.

Big John Young was presented with the honour at a special event at City Hall, surrounded by family, friends and fellow Freemen.

Big John’s charity efforts, which earned him a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in the 2015 Queen’s Birthday Honours, have also included raising money for organisations such as the Salvation Army, John Hunter Children’s Hospital, Camp Quality, Ronald McDonald House, Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and the NBN 3 Newcastle Telethon.

With a heart as big as his impressive six foot seven stature, Big John said he was honoured and humbled to be named Newcastle’s newest Freeman.

“I’m proud to have been able to use my presence and reputation to bring the community together, raise awareness and funds for charities, and most importantly, support families and children that have needed a little extra help,” Big John said.

“The Newcastle Toy Run is my greatest legacy. We started with about 30 participants in the late 1970s, and last year in 2025 had 13,000 motorcycles with thousands more lining the streets to raise money and awareness for disadvantaged families and children across the region.

“Newcastle and its people have shaped the person

Big John’s half century of charity work awarded with Freeman of the City that I am today, and this city taught me the value of looking out for one another and believing that acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of others.

“Our motto is that every child deserves to smile, and a child’s smile will light the world. I’m proud to have helped make our world a brighter place.”

The Freeman of the City award is Newcastle’s highest honour, conferred upon Novocastrians for outstanding achievement and service to the city or to humanity.

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 3

How did ward three vote?* Lord Mayoral By-election by Ward 3 polling place

Steve O’Brien

Gavin Morris

Charlotte McCabe

Jenny Barrie

Declan Clausen

Milton Caine

Socialist Alliance

Independent

Greens

Liberal

Labor

Independent

Callaghan College - Jesmond

53

494

340

57

316

47

Callaghan College - Waratah

19

165

130

11

80

6

411

Hamilton North Public School

19

280

145

20

86

9

559

Jesmond Neighbourhood Centre

22

278

167

37

153

14

671

Lambton High School

39

680

189

43

221

29

1,201

Lambton Public School

33

748

307

59

245

31

1,423

New Lambton Community Centre

35

758

302

113

250

37

1,495

New Lambton South Public School

41

735

279

115

180

24

1,374

St Therese’s Primary School

30

767

283

122

254

24

1,480

Waratah Public School

77

803

488

87

265

31

1,751

New Lambton Community Centre (prepoll)

112

2,908

803

326

746

85

4,980

Total

480

8,616

3,433

990

2,796

337

16,652

% of first preference votes

2.88

51.74

20.62

5.95

16.79

2.02

100

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1,307

(*the figures above correct at time of printing) continued from front page “Not a party head office or caucus.” Gavin said.

“I look forward to getting to work, listening to the residents and ratepayers and serving their interests” He added.

“Council is a team effort. It’s not a case of government versus opposition. I’ll work collaboratively with all councillors to achieve our common goal, a better, brighter Newcastle.”

Lord mayor-elect Morris’ results were very strong across all parts of the city.

The western suburbs of ward four, which includes Gavin’s childhood stomping grounds of Woodbery and Tarro, gave him a resounding 55% of the first preference vote.

At right is an analysis of how the vote fell across the ten polling places in ward three, The Local’s main readership area.

Conceding defeat relatively early on by-election night, both Councillors Clausen and McCabe congratulated Mr Morris on his win and pledged to work cooperatively with him on Council.

Gavin Morris will take the oath of office to become Newcastle’s 16th lord mayor on May 12. thelocalnewcastle.com.au

12th birthday for The Local!

Just a few of the 142 monthly issues of The Local published since May 2014

This month marks 12 years since I took a big chance and started a little newspaper.

Readers around Lambton and North Lambton have been receiving The Local in their letterbox each month since May 2014.

Other suburbs such as New Lambton, Jesmond, Broadmeadow and Kotara have been added along the way.

It goes without saying that I love The Local almost as much as if it was my child. Though I might say all our actual kids were pretty good sleepers, and none have kept me up late or woken me as early as their print media sibling can and still does.

On the occasion of The Local’s 12th birthday I would like to thank the readers, the advertisers, the contributors and the letterbox deliverers for your continuing support. Take any one of these groups out of the equation and I would not be able to make The Local happen each month.

Please support local small business, especially those who support The Local.

I look forward to bringing independent community news to you for for another year and beyond.

Mark Brooker - publisher and proprietor

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 5

Letters to Community involvement commended

Ker-rai Creek was never a pristine bush stream. It was designed to move water through Lambton toward Broadmeadow.

The launch of the Lambton Ker-Rai Creek Landcare Group, along with Clean Up Australia efforts by the Lambton Residents Group, is welcome and deserves praise.

It was noticeable that aspiring

mayoral candidates were front and centre at these events.

Community involvement is commendable — but will it last beyond the by-election?

The creek becomes an ugly concrete drain near Club Lambton and flows to New Lambton, where it struggles in heavy rain with water frequently overflowing across Monash Road and Gloucester Avenue.

‘Letters to the Local’ can be sent by email to: mark@hunterlocal.com.au or by post to PO Box 130, Jesmond NSW 2299

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 6 > The Local > May 2026

With added runoff should the proposed Hunter Indoor Sports Centre proceed, pressure on the system will only increase.

Greening one stretch is admirable, but without downstream capacity, the problem is simply passed on.

Wayne Garner - New Lambton

Numbers tell story

There are four Lord Mayors in New South Wales.

In Parramatta, the Lord Mayor is chosen by the councillors. That leaves Newcastle, Sydney and Wollongong who are popularly elected.

At the 2024 local government elections the primary results were: Ross Kerridge (Independent) who was elected with 34%, in Sydney Clover Moore (Independent) secured office again with 37% and in Wollongong Tania Brown (Labor), with 41%.

By contrast, in the recent by-election Gavin Morris received almost 52% in the first count. In modern politics, that qualifies as a landslide.

It would be hard not to read this as a message from Novocastrians. After 18 months marked by very public infighting, voters have spoken - less theatre, more teamwork, and a renewed focus on the basics: roads, rates and rubbish.

Dr Kerridge’s contribution to civic life, and his persistence in the face of dysfunctional councillors, should not go unrecognised.

In politics, groundwork matters—and this result suggests his efforts were not in vain.

Thank you Dr Kerridge and good luck Gavin Morris.

Hilary Oliver - New Lambton

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Free CPR and AED training Did you know that 30,000 people die annually in Australia due to sudden cardiac arrest?

Would you know how to assist someone if they suffered a cardiac arrest in the community?

Hunter Heart Safe is presenting another free training session for interested community members on how to perform hands only CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and how to use an AED (Automated External Defribrillator).

Hosted by Lambton Residents Group, the free training session will be held on Tuesday 12 May. Hunter Heart Safe was founded in 2019, the name deriving from the concept of a ‘heart safe community’, a population where there are enough community-based people who know how to do CPR and use an AED. “The truth is community bystanders are more likely to start CPR if they don’t have to do mouth to mouth,” says Shaun, one of the organisers of Hunter Heart Safe.

rate fivefold.” Shaun added.

The one hour training session will be held at Lambton Anglican Church Hall on Morehead St at 6.30pm.

To attend this free event please call or text Angela “For someone who has a sudden cardiac arrest in from Lambton Residents Group on 0422 633 737 by the community, immediate CPR from a bystander 10 May. All community members are welcome to and the use of an AED, can increase their survival attend.

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 7

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. Phone Mark at The Local on 0455 210 000 by 15 May to claim your prize.

To celebrate The Local’s 12th birthday this month, all lucky letterboxes are number 12.

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 15 May and redeemed at your chosen retailer by 30 June 2026.

Congratulations to the residents of 1 Dan Close Lambton and 13 Pangari Place Lambton who each won a $25 voucher last month.

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SCAN THE QR TO ADD TO YOUR CONTACTS

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Fire station doors open Get along to your local Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) fire station on Saturday May 9 for the annual Open Day, 10am to 2pm.

Meet your local firefighters, see the specialised equipment and fire trucks that keep our communities safe. Get some handy tips for household fire safety. You can even learn how a working smoke alarm can help save lives this winter.

Our local fire station at Young Rd Lambton will be open on the day as will other stations close by including Wallsend, Cardiff, Newcastle, Carrington and Merewether.

The Fire and Rescue NSW annual open day is free and all are welcome to join in.

For more information go: www.fire. nsw.gov.au/media/events/openday/

A number of local Fire & Rescue NSW stations including Lambton will be open to the public on Saturday 9 May

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 9

The Local Quiz Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Franca Sibert. Franca has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy.

Last month’s mystery photo was of the new mural on Elder St Lambton. 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 - On what date is the Fire & Rescue NSW open day?

Question 2 - The area once known as Grovetown was bounded by which four modern day streets and roads?

Question 3 - What award was made to Big John Young recently?

Question 4 - Which Lambton hotel recently reopened following renovations?

Question 5 - Where is the water reservoir pictured at right located?

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

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Page 10 > The Local > May 2026

or post them to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299 by Friday 15 May 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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If you would like further details regarding participation, please contact lead researcher Erin Croft on 4348 4158. thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Balanced budget

City of Newcastle is planning to deliver 274 projects and forecasting a fifth consecutive surplus as it released its draft Budget for the upcoming financial year last month.

The 2026/27 Budget will invest $128.5 million in infrastructure to deliver everyday benefits for the community while also completing major projects like the Western Corridor road upgrades and the city’s largest ever children’s playground at Foreshore Park.

CEO Jeremy Bath said a commitment to responsible financial management means City of Newcastle can maintain its high level of service and infrastructure delivery.

“After many years of measured and deliberate decision-making, Council is well placed to continue investing sustainably in Newcastle’s future,” Mr Bath said.

“City of Newcastle will spend $458 million in the coming financial year, delivering important services and infrastructure for the community, from Bar Beach to Beresfield and everywhere in between.

“We’re also forecasting a modest $1.4 million surplus, which means we can confidently commit to the high level of service delivery the community expects, while also being well positioned to weather unforeseen challenges.”

Councillors voted to place the 2026/27 draft Budget and Operational Plan on public exhibition for community feedback at April’s Council meeting.

Deputy Lord Mayor Charlotte McCabe encouraged the community to have their say on the proposed plans.

“Community feedback plays an important role in everything we do, and inviting the community to have some input on the plan gives people an opportunity to influence what we’ll deliver across Newcastle,” Cr McCabe said.

“Taking the time to get familiar with the plan is a great way for people to learn more about what Council does to make Newcastle a better place, and to understand what is proposed for the next 12 months.”

Some of the big ticket items in the new year’s budget are $29 million on road renewal and road upgrades, including the Western Corridor Road Upgrades at Minmi Road and Longworth Avenue and $20.1 million on City and Civic venues, aquatics and recreation and sports improvements, including the Foreshore Park play space.

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 11

Lambton Park playgroud upgrade

A new benchmark for playground upgrades is being set as City of Newcastle starts work on the replacement and enhancement of the Lambton Park play space.

City of Newcastle has invested more than $1.1 million across six neighbourhood playground projects this year, the highest number completed in a 12 month period since the annual Playground Replacement Program began almost a decade ago.

Executive Manager Community and Recreation, Lynn Duffy, said the work at Lambton Park reflects City of Newcastle’s longterm approach to providing quality, inclusive recreation spaces for the community.

“Lambton Park has been a

Aerial view of the upgraded Lambton Park playground to be completed this year much-loved play space for decades,” Ms Duffy said.

“These upgrades will enhance existing equipment, introduce new play elements and support the enjoyment of the playground for children and families for

years to come.

The upgraded playground will sit adjacent to the recently redevelopment former Baby Health Centre, now known as First Light Café.

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 13

Mark Hotel back, even better One of Lambton’s most recognisable landmarks is back in business.

After receiving extensive damage in the storm that hit the area in January this year, The Mark Hotel has now reopened its doors to the community.

“We have missed our customers so much. It’s been really tough.

But we kept working away on the repairs and renovations. And now we’re back!” said Reddy, owner of the hotel.

“I think the community will be impressed. We have spared no expense in our renovations. We have created a unique familyfriendly space to relax and enjoy a drink and a meal.” he added.

The kitchen is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. The all new menu features a modern Australian pub cuisine plus

The Mark Hotel team is ready to serve you once again some amazing authentic Indian specialties. Seniors receive a 15% discount off the lunch menu Monday to Friday.

In addition to the hotel’s kitchen, the Burger Yard truck operates from the top of the carpark from 4-10pm Thursday to Sunday.

Upstairs, the accommodation includes fully renovated motelstyle rooms. Let your family and friends know, there’s no need to stay on your couch when they visit when they can book into The Mark.

Call in today to see Reddy and the team at The Mark Hotel.

WE’RE BACK!

After extensive renovations following the January storm, The Mark Hotel has re-opened!

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Page 14 > The Local > May 2026

4911 2344

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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lega

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The Local > May 2026 > Page 15

gap between the coal seam outcrop and the

of Lambton, the company created a small THAT WAS township subdivision of 34 allotments naming it “Grovetown”, after Thomas Grove one of the founding directors.

THEN An auction was held onsite on 17 May 1869 with

This is now

with Lachlan Wetherall

Lost names‘Grovetown’

Grovetown was a 13-acre housing subdivision north of Lambton in 1869. It’s a little bit of land with quite a lot of history.

The Waratah Coal Company formed in 1863 and started mining near Braye Park. In 1868 they purchased an additional 195 acres to extract coal from the North Lambton hill. In 1869, in the narrow

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most allotments sold to miners. The first recorded sale was to Uriah Broom, later elected as Lambton’s first Mayor. He was also briefly the licensee of the Red Lion Inn (1871-1896) situated on the corner of Morehead St and Newcastle Rd. In 1874 the Catholic Church purchased land in Grovetown and soon erected a handsome presbytery, a home for the local parish priest.

In 1890 the generator for Lambton’s electric lighting scheme was installed in a former quarry in Grovetown. The nearby presbytery was one of the few private residences to be illuminated by electricity at this time.

Although the Waratah Company vacated this locality around 1880, mining returned to Grovetown in a small way in 1896-98 when resident William Mawkes sunk a shaft to extract remnant coal. In the period 1918-21 James and Patrick Fitzpatrick operated the “Lambton Heights No. 1 Colliery” which at its peak employed six men.

The Fitzpatrick’s purchased a sizeable portion of Grovetown, including the land of the Catholics who subsequently established their presbytery in Dickson St. Both the Mawkes and Fitzpatrick mines were the source of recurring complaints about street subsidence.

In 1951 master builder William Henry Hudson subdivided the Fitzpatricks’ land, and within a few years houses were erected on every allotment.

The commercial, religious, industrial and mining heritage of Grovetown was gone, and even the name “Grovetown” faded into obscurity.

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

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Father James Flynn at the Catholic Presbytery, High St Lambton, 1897. Photo by Ralph Snowball. Newcastle Libraries Online Collection. Accession number 001 003260.

The 1869 Grovetown subdivision bounded by Hill St, Morehead St, Dent St, & Newcastle Rd, with location of the Red Lion Inn (red), Catholic Presbytery (yellow) electric generating station (blue) & Fitzpatrick’s colliery (green).

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > May 2026 > Page 17

Hey neighbour!

by Georgia Osland

Nature lover Dave Dunne at Ker-rai Creek in Lambton Park

Dave Dunne

Just as Oscar Wilde famously said life imitates art, New Lambton nature enthusiast Dave Dunne believes humans mimic the environment.

The self-professed “bowerbird” regularly strolls through Lambton Ker-rai Creek and George McGregor Park at Elermore Vale, not just seeing the birds, bugs and creatures, but really taking them in.

“A walk in the bush is sort of like astral travelling; you’ve got to be open to wandering wherever the path takes you,” Dave said.

“Trees talk to you. It’s like us having this conversation: you say something, I absorb it, reflect on it, and say something back. We relate in energy.”

Dave, his wife Pauline and their daughter Rose moved to Page 18 > The Local > May 2026

Newcastle from the Mid North Coast in the mid-2000s.

They built their house on their hundred-acre property in Eungai Creek by hand, so it’s little wonder why Dave feels an inextricable connection to the land.

When they first bought the property in 1974, Dave did a deep dive into its history and soon discovered more and more connections with the wider community, like rings on a tree.

Before he knew it, he was helping to organise the town’s centenary celebrations.

Dave partnered with Nambucca Valley Council to publish a book on the town’s history and worked alongside various organisations to control weeds such as balloon vine and bitou bush.

When Rose declared to her parents at the tender age of five she wanted to play soccer for Australia, the family routinely made the 600-kilometre round trip to Newcastle, a time Dave affectionately calls his “soccer

mum” era, before settling here years later.

Rose did, in fact, make the Young Matildas team and represented Australia in Canada.

Now retired, Dave has plenty of time to devote to his photography and pottery hobbies and is set to join the newly formed Landcare group caring for Lambton Kerrai Creek, alongside his 20 years as treasurer of Back to Back Galleries.

He especially enjoys nature walks with Pauline – despite, or maybe because of his inclination to stop and smell the roses.

“It’s an important part of life, interacting with the environment,” he added.

“More so than houses and money and physical things. I mean, you’ve got to live, and you’ve got to have a house, but it’s a beautiful balancing act.”

Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here? Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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email: info@newcastleroofandgutter.com.au The Local > May 2026 > Page 19

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

Q’s Recommends WE WANT YOUR BOOK REVIEW!

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@QSBOOKSHAMILTON Page 20 > The Local > May 2026

No. 1 Lady Detective Agency series

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To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > May 2026 > Page 21

Here to

HELP with Elaine Abery

of Unravelling Red Tape

Overloaded regulation

Dear Here to Help, When you talk about public policy, I imagine a power point with a power board attached to it, then double adapter after double adapter plugged into it. It seems like you come along and unravel that into something that works, safely. Is this a good analogy?

Thanks for reaching out. Your analogy made me smile.

Government is like any other organisation. Far

from perfect. And as much as everyone knows that housekeeping is important, urgent things take precedence. And everyone always has something “urgent” they want from government.

Yes, legislation does build upon legislation.

Impetus for change comes when someone clearly identifies something wrong and communicates it to government.

There are still pieces of legislation that existed in the past and are no longer required. From time to time, government creates a review to identify those old provisions and remove them. A good example is the Board of Taxation’s Report “Identifying Inoperative Provisions of the 1936 and 1997 Income Tax Assessment Acts”. As a result of that Report, many unnecessary pages of legislation were removed.

However, these kinds of reviews don’t happen without prompting. And, as often is the case, it’s people asking for change, complaining about the length of the Tax Acts, that spurred the government into reviewing the Act. In essence, the number of people asking for change created the impetus for change.

So, when you spot the power board loaded with double adapters and want that to change, identify the issue and its consequences and take it to government in a way that they understand. There are loads of tips in my previous columns.

DO GOOD

Join Vinnies

Become a Vinnies Member and make a difference in your local community JOIN TODAY. Visit www.vinnies.org.au

Email maitland.newcastle@vinnies.org.au Call 0490 255 100 Page 22 > The Local > May 2026

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

MONEY

Matters with Dominic Brown

from Nest Financial Solutions

What rising interest rates mean

With the recent rate rises we have seen so far in 2026, investors are finally seeing better returns on their bank savings. That’s good news in some aspects but rising rates ripple through every part of the economy, and their impact on investment portfolios can be mixed.

Higher rates boost returns on cash and fixed terms, giving conservative savers steadier income.

Yet at the same time, bond values typically fall when interest rates rise. Share prices can also come under pressure since businesses face higher borrowing costs, and consumers may spend less. There is rarely an entirely “safe” or “risky” environment — every cycle has winners and losers.

For retirees, it can be about balance. Keeping a portion of funds in short-term or interest-earning assets provides reliable income and security for near-term spending. Meanwhile, maintaining growth investments helps offset inflation and preserves purchasing power over the long run.

Regular reviews are essential too — as interest rates move, so should expectations about returns.

Re-checking asset allocations every year can keep your portfolio working efficiently without unnecessary risk.

At Nest Financial Solutions, we help clients navigate these changing conditions calmly and confidently.

Rising rates can be friend or foe depending on how your finances are structured — and with the right plan, they can become an opportunity rather than a threat.

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.

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

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > May 2026 > Page 23

VET Chat with Dr Cassy Macpherson of Elder St Vets

Arthritis in pets

Summer is now completely in our rear view, and now that we are getting colder and colder nights a lot of older pets are going to start feeling the weather and will struggle more with osteoarthritis.

80% of animals over the age of 8 have some measure of osteoarthritis causing their joints to move stiffly and become painful. This condition is

seen in both cats and dogs and commonly affects the elbows, shoulders, hips and knees, but any joint can be affected.

Animals are remarkable at masking pain (especially cats) and therefore arthritis is often confused with signs of aging or ‘slowing down’.

Arthritis is more common in some breeds, older pets, overweight pets, and those with a history of joint problems or surgery. Some of the signs we see include a reduction in activity levels, slowness to rise and sit, a stiff gait when walking, difficulty or reluctance to use stairs or jump and lameness at any time, especially after exercise.

If you are seeing these signs, there are many treatments available at Elder Street Vets to help manage and reduce the impact of arthritis. These treatments include: over the counter dietary supplements, injections aimed at slowing down arthritic progression and ongoing oral or injectable pain relief. We also recommend changes such as weight loss in overweight animals, ramps to avoid the use of steps, non-slip matting on floorboards or tiles and the provision of thick, soft bedding.

If you suspect your pet has signs of arthritis, and want to take some steps to ensure they are comfortable this winter season, give us a call and make an appointment today.

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 •

Page 24 > The Local > May 2026

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

PHARMACY

Matters

by Anthony Piggott

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

Threadworms

Threadworms are small, white, thread-like roundworms (~1 cm) that live in the human intestine.

They are the most common cause of “worms” in Australia, especially in children. Threadworms infect only humans; pets do not carry or transmit them. Other animal-related worm infections (e.g. hookworm, hydatid disease, toxocariasis) are uncommon in Australia.

The threadworm life cycle

Threadworm eggs swallowed or inhaled hatch in the gut. Larvae mature in the small and large intestines over 4–8 weeks. Mature female worms migrate to the anus—usually at night—to lay thousands of sticky eggs and then die. The female’s movement and the glue that holds eggs to the skin cause itching. Scratching transfers eggs to fingers and under fingernails, from where they can reach the mouth, food and other people. Eggs can contaminate bedding, clothing, towels, toys, furniture and floors and survive outside the body for two to three weeks.

Signs and symptoms

• Itching around the anus or vagina, worse at night.

• Restless sleep and sometimes bedwetting.

• Irritability, mild unwell feeling, reduced appetite or stomach pain.

Many infected people have no symptoms; worms may be seen in bowel motions or around the anus.

Threadworms rarely cause serious illness.

Finding threadworms

• Look for moving white worms on faeces or around the anus—mucus or fluff can be mistaken for worms, so check for movement.

• Inspect the anus at night or early morning with a torch if a child complains of itch.

• Press sticky tape over the anus before bathing in

the morning; eggs adhere to the tape and can be examined under a microscope by a doctor.

Medicines

Medications kill adult worms but not eggs (which survive 2–3 weeks). Over-the-counter treatments are available from pharmacists.

• Treat everyone in the household on the same day, symptomatic or not; follow the package dose.

• Ask a pharmacist or doctor about treatment for pregnant or breastfeeding women and children under two.

• Shower the night the medicine is taken and again the next morning to remove eggs laid overnight; wash around the anus.

• Use a protective ointment (e.g. nappy rash cream) at bedtime to reduce scratching—avoid contaminating the container.

• A second dose may be needed two weeks later to kill worms that hatch from remaining eggs— seek advice.

Self care

To remove eggs and prevent reinfection: • Wash underwear, sleepwear, bedding, towels and soft toys in hot water and dry thoroughly; ironing will also kill eggs. Don’t shake bedding indoors.

• Shower each morning and wash around the anus; don’t share towels.

• Keep fingernails short and clean; scrub under nails and discourage nail biting, finger sucking and scratching.

• Dress children in snug underwear or mittens at night if needed.

• Vacuum and damp-dust furniture, bedrooms and toilet areas.

• Wash hands with soap after toilet use, after changing nappies, and before handling food.

Clean and disinfect toilet seats regularly.

Important

• Medicine kills worms but not eggs—householdwide treatment and hygiene are essential.

• Do not give human threadworm medicine to pets.

See a doctor if symptoms persist after treatment; you’ve recently travelled overseas; there is blood in faeces; significant abdominal pain, diarrhoea or vomiting; unexplained weight loss; or if scratching has caused skin damage.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

The Local > May 2026 > Page 25

Local Community Group Notices CHILDREN & FAMILIES

COMMUNITY GROUPS

NEWCASTLE TOY LIBRARY

LAMBTON-NEW LAMBTON RSL SUB-BRANCH

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.

HOME-START FAMILY SERVICES

Home-Start is a voluntary service offering support, friendship and practical help to families with at least one child under 5 where the 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/

MULTICULTURAL PLAYGROUP

Come join us at the Multicultural Neighbourhood Centre, 3 Illalung Road - Corner Durham Road, Lambton for fun playgroup activities for children.

Parents and Carers can have a cuppa with the opportunity to gain knowledge and information on parenting and child development and reduce isolation. The playgroup for under school age children runs every Friday during school terms from 10am – 12 midday and it is free to join. New participants from all backgrounds are welcome.

For more information on our programs, please call 4965 5291 or email: info@mncinc.org.au or simply walk in and say hello.

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 13 May at 5.30pm. For more information call Angela on 0422 633 737.

Page 26 > The Local > May 2026

Lambton-New Lambton RSL sub-branch is your local sub-branch. We meet at 10am on the second Sunday of the month at Club Lambton located at 51 Karoola Road. Whether you have retired from service in the Australian Defence Force (ADF), Armed Forces, or are still serving, joining RSL NSW means so much more than being invited to events. It’s about joining a family of committed people who thrive on camaraderie and friendship. For more information send an email to lambton-new-lambtonsb@rslnsw.org. au

COMMUNITY EVENTS 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 10 May, Miss Porter’s House will be open from 1-4pm.

The theme for May is ‘The Magic of Mother’s Day’. Much more than tea pots and doilies. Treat mum to a slice of history and celebrate three generations of remarkable women. Enjoy special displays of memorabilia which reveal early European settlers, businesspeople, employees and active community members, as well as wives and mothers. 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.

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Community Group Notices HOBBIES & INTERESTS EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD NSW NEWCASTLE BRANCH

The Newcastle Branch is a group of embroiderers 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.

Come and join us for morning tea and our Mother’s Day Stall on Monday 4th May from 10.30am. If you have any enquiries, please contact us on our email NewcastleEmbroiderersGuild@gmail.com Website: https://www.embroiderersguildnsw. org.au/Groups/Newcastle-Branch

SENIORS GROUPS THE PROBUS CLUB OF SHORTLAND INC

We are a Combined Club who meets at the beautiful Hunter Wetlands on the 3rd Thursday of each month from 9.30am, for friendship and fellowship with the meeting starting at 10.am.

We are currently looking for people over 55 years who have retired and would like to join us for Coffee Mornings, Outings of day trips and away trips, good Guest Speakers, and a great morning tea at our Meetings, followed by a BBQ on the following day. We have four lunches at the Wetlands per year. If you would like to find out more about this Club, please contact Laelia on 0415 918 791 or email aislabie.laelia@gmail.com

NEWCASTLE LADIES’ PROBUS

This is an invitation to join The 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 monthly coffee mornings, monthly lunches and other outings. Each month we have an interesting guest speaker. For more information contact Margaret 0417663064 or Monica 0439478431.

To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

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 Tuesday 26 May. Guest speaker will be Peter Plowman, a member of World Shipping Society, on the topic of ‘Australia Under Attack’. Please arrive at 10.15am for a 10.30 start to the meeting. Contact Brian Prior on 0415 081 610 or www.newcastleprobus. org for further details.

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

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 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

The Local > May 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 > May 2026

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

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To advertise in The Local call Mark on 0455 210 000

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

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

The Local > May 2026 > Page 29

Local Classifieds...

FOR SALE

FOR SALE

NOTICES

BED DOLLS PLANTS Attractive handmade bed Yellow Cliveas, Hoyas and dolls for sale. $40.00 each. Aspidistras $10-15 each. Please Would suit girls bedrooms 5 text number Ph 0487 833 713 to 8 year old. Phone Yvette TAP AND DRILL BITS Ph 0423 483 597 Sutton tap and drill bits, many pieces, new and used $50 BUDGERIGARS Ph 0423 974 694 Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15 VACUUM CLEANER Ph 0456 919 046 Dyson DC25 vacuum cleaner with all attachments. hardly DINING CHAIRS Four buff coloured, vinyl used. $100 cash only.

Ph 0401 719 921 covered, swivel based dining chairs with cushions. $10 each NOTICES Ph 0414 572 379 GARDEN POTS Assorted plastic and terracotta pots. Prices from 50c each Ph 0421 003 693 FISHING GEAR Fishing sinker moulds, seven different types $50 Ph 0423 974 694 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 CROSSWORD SOLUTION FROM PAGE 28 C

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CHRIS’ CUSTOM CABINETRY Custom cabinetry and joinery expert – design, build, and install tailored solutions for kitchens, bathrooms, wardrobes, laundries and more. Quality craftsmanship and personalised service from start to finish. Email: chr iscus to m cabinetr y31@ gmail.com Ph 0406 033 171 COMPANION WANTED Mature lady (prefer 60+) to be a companion one day per week to a 60+ female. Please list hobbies. $180.00/day.

Email rockorchid@gmail.com

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

thelocalnewcastle.com.au

Local Classifieds...

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

NOTICES

POSITION VACANT

CLEANER Reliable, local, experienced residential cleaner available.

Top references. Weekly or fortnightly, $25 per hr (3 hrs minimum) Ph 0493 054 207

BE PAID TO DELIVER

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

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.

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 Christine Martin who has won two tickets to ’Seventeen’ at Newcastle Theatre Company in May.

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 > May 2026 > Page 31

FLU SEASON IS HERE! 2026 FLU VACCINE NOW AVAILABLE AT ALL PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY’S The Australian Government’s National Immunisation Program (NIP) provides a free flu vaccine to the following eligible Medicare card holders: ä People aged 65 years and over ä Children aged 6 months to under 5 years, Includes the needle-free intranasal option ä Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 6 months and older. ä Pregnant women at any stage of pregnancy. ä People 6 months and older with medical conditions increasing influenza risk (e.g., severe asthma, diabetes, heart/kidney disease). ä Children aged 6 months to less than 2 years old (not available in pharmacy) If you don’t fall into any of these categories, the vaccine is $25.

FLUMIST FLU PROTECTION WITHOUT THE INJECTION!

The only intranasal, needle-free flu vaccine that can trigger a 3-way immune response and is indicated for the prevention of influenza in children and adolescents from 2 to 17 years of age.

Free for children aged 2 to 4 years of age, however is still available for up to 17 years of age privately.

BOOK ONLINE AT WWW.PIGGOTTSPHARMACY.COM.AU PIGGOTT’S PHARMACY BLACKBUTT

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58 Orchardtown Rd, New Lambton Phone: 4957 2474

105 Elder Street, Lambton Phone: 4957 3630

400 Glebe Road, Merewether Phone: 4969 1978

Page 32 > The Local > Mayª2026 www.piggottspharmacy.com.au

ªthelocalnewcastle.com.au