30 year Broadmeadow plan
City of Newcastle is inviting the community to provide feedback on a draft 30-year plan that outlines how housing, employment opportunities and public spaces are to be developed in Broadmeadow.
The Broadmeadow Place Strategy presents a shared vision to revitalise the 313-hectare precinct, with up to 20,000 new homes for 40,000 people, and 15,000 jobs to be created, while retaining Broadmeadow as the region’s premier sport and entertainment destination.
It was developed by City of Newcastle in collaboration with the Department of Planning, continued on page 3
An artist’s visualisation of a multi-purpose community facility on Young Road forms part of the draft Broadmeadow Place Strategy
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LOCAL Matters
with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local
It’s wet, wet, wet
“Wet enough for you?” “Is it ever going to stop?”
“Good weather for ducks!” These are just some of the stock standard greetings we tend to use during extended rainy periods.
There’s no doubt about it, it has been particularly damp over the last couple of months.
At time of writing, in late June, Newcastle has had 164.4mm of rain. In May we had a thorough drenching with 316.2mm. In April we had 189.4mm. That’s 670 mm in less than three months which is well over half of our average annual rainfall of 1017mm.
Junior sports clubs officials are tearing their hair out wondering if there will be enough dry Sundays before winter’s end for all the catch up fixtures required.
On the other hand keen gardeners will appreciate the long, slow drink that their patches have been receiving.
I would imagine that local cinemas and other indoor entertainment venues have done okay, especially when the rain has fallen weekends. At time of writing Hunter Water reports that water storage is at 97.7% of capacity.
The forecast is that storage will reach maximum capacity in early July if this higher than average rainfall continues.
That’s certainly better news than the low point in our water storage of just over 50% capacity back in February 2020 when Level 2 water restrictions looked likely.
from front page
Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) in response to the NSW Government’s Rezoning Pathways Program, which identified Broadmeadow as one of ten precincts to significantly contribute to housing supply across NSW.
The precinct includes areas of Broadmeadow, Hamilton, Hamilton North, and Hamilton East.
“Broadmeadow offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to deliver vital affordable housing, jobs and infrastructure to support our housing strategy, as well as access to quality public open spaces and improved leisure facilities in the heart of Newcastle,” Newcastle lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.
“The NSW Government has been working in partnership with City of Newcastle to develop the Place Strategy. We are the only Council in NSW involved in such a partnership, ensuring early input into the strategic planning for the renewal of the Broadmeadow precinct. Cr Nelmes said.
“Our vision for Broadmeadow is to be a vibrant destination with highly connected neighbourhoods that balance the needs of a dynamic community and growing
Newcastle.
“The draft Broadmeadow Place Strategy provides strategic direction on how to achieve that vision.”
“I encourage the community to take this opportunity to have their say so that together we can plan for Broadmeadow’s future and create a new and enhanced place for people to live in and visit for years to come.”
To support the supply of new housing, DPHI will also release a discussion paper that proposes the development of more than 3,000 new homes on certain parcels of government-owned
Contact your established sales and property management specialists anytime…
land as part of the first stage. This will be placed separately on public exhibition by the NSW Government.
Cr Nelmes said feedback from the community and stakeholders will help ensure the Place Strategy is fit for purpose and comes with the social, community and transport infrastructure required for a growing community.
“There have been many plans and promises for this site for many years, it’s great to have the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure continued on page 5
Steve Sue Scott
Experience
Real Estate Newcastle & Lake Macquarie
A stadium to station boulevard will form an integral part of the redevelopment of Broadmeadow
Jenny from the Jaffas
Jenny Bailey received a Distinguished Long Service Award at the 2024 NSW Community Sports Awards in June
Jenny Bailey’s is a face well-known to her local community, and to Lambton Jaffas soccer club members in particular.
Jenny received a richly deserved Distinguished Long Service Award at the 2024 Community Sports Awards held recently at Sydney’s CommBank Stadium. The NSW Community Sports Awards, recognise outstanding achievements and contributions to community sport in NSW.
Jenny told The Local she was both “shocked” and “humbled” to hear she had been nominated for the award by Northern NSW Football.
“I first became involved when my son started with the Jaffas in 1990 and I’ve just stuck with it. I love watching the kids play, being outdoors and active.”
“The Jaffas are celebrating 65 years as a club this year. It’s amazing that for 34 of those years Jenny has been at the heart of our club. Whether it’s running the canteen on Saturdays, co-ordinating rego days or looking after club kits, we’d be lost with her. Jenny truly is a champion volunteer, and we love her for that”. Jaffas Junior Football Club president Nathan Errington told The Local.
continued from page 3 now leading community engagement to ensure that all our current users and future residents are included in the plans,” Cr Nelmes said. “It’s vital that any future changes incorporate the continued operation of the PCYC, Newcastle Basketball, Newcastle Tennis, Broadmeadow Magic and Newcastle Show in the precinct, together with significantly enhanced public community open space, indoor sports and leisure and aquatic facilities.
The revitalisation of Styx Creek, which runs through Broadmeadow, will take place as part of the suburb’s revitalisation and development
“We support the advocacy from the Hunter Community Alliance for a minimum of 30 per cent of new homes to be set aside as social and affordable homes in perpetuity as part of any residential development that goes ahead.
“We also support the integration of transport planning principles via the inclusion of the extension of the light rail corridor to Broadmeadow. Increases in population must come with commensurate investment into public transport infrastructure across the city.
“It is really important to advocate strongly and clearly our expectations for this 30-year vision, and for what is delivered in the next decade in particular.” Cr Nelmes added. A number of drop-in sessions were held in June. If you would like to ask questions of the project team be at McDonald Jones Stadium on Tuesday 2 July from 4pm to 7pm for the last of the planned sessions.
To see the draft Broadmeadow Place Strategy in full and to give feedback go to: haveyoursay. newcastle.nsw.gov.au/broadmeadow-placestrategy
Letters to Basketball stadium flood fears
Last month on 8th June was the 17th anniversary of the Pasha Bulker storm in 2007. In Newcastle over 10,000 properties were flooded and 5,000 cars were written off as a direct result of torrential rain and the breakdown in large sections of the ageing stormwater drain network running through multiple suburbs. My car was destroyed by the flooding in my driveway just one block away from one of those drains.
Newcastle Basketball and the City of Newcastle want to concrete Wallarah and Blackley Ovals at New Lambton to build a new basketball stadium. A major stormwater drain, part of Ker Rai Creek, runs right alongside the length of the ovals.
The SES has categorised the 2007 flood as a 1-in100 year event in the area of these ovals but the adjacent drain has topped its banks multiple times since 2007.
The frequency and intensity of rainfall is increasing, run-off from concreted land will increase, and it will take less rainfall to bring the stormwater drains to overflowing levels. This won’t just affect the drains in the immediate area around the ovals but the whole drain network downstream. The impact of future extensive development in Broadmeadow on the area’s inadequate local drain network will be huge.
Will Newcastle Basketball have the funds to complete flood mitigation works properly –modelling, design, construction, and critically the ongoing maintenance and management? Who will own and maintain their underground storage system - Newcastle Basketball, NSW Government, City of Newcastle, Hunter Water? If their system fails and contributes to any flood damage to property we would like to know who to pursue with a class action.
The only information Newcastle Basketball has made publicly available is “The proposed design will manage flooding better than the current situation on the site. We will build flood storage as part of the car park.” That was provided at
two drop-information sessions held by Newcastle Basketball in March this year but there has been no engagement with local residents to provide further information since.
The City of Newcastle’s refusal to meet with residents - despite being fully aware of their concerns about flooding - and other issues - is beyond belief.
Why should residents live in fear of being flooded again because of poor site location by Newcastle Basketball and City of Newcastle?
Chris Flower - Duke Street, New Lambton
Wallarah Oval is a low lying area and the Lambton Ker-rai Creek (or drain) flows alongside Wallarah Oval which is the proposed site for the Indoor Sports (Basketball) Centre.
The creek fills to capacity every time there is a heavy storm and when there is a severe weather event, the water cannot flow out quickly enough because of the narrow pipes under road to Styx Creek. Therefore, during these events, there is always flooding across the ovals, Monash Road and further afield.
Newcastle Council recommends that the proponents must prepare a stormwater management plan by a suitably qualified engineer. Who will that be?
Also, the proponents must review flood risk management controls and ensure that the overflow does not adversely affect the site and other properties or waterways.
Of course there will be an increase in flooding, With the drainage from the buildings – internally and externally, the concrete parking area, and the removal of the 12 trees located along Turton Road, this will undoubtedly increase the flow into the creek and cause more frequent flooding.
It would be very interesting to read their studies into stormwater management and how they intend to control the flows which would be near on impossible.
Hilary Oliver - New Lambton
Hunter Women of Note
They say the only thing better than singing is singing with others.
Hunter Women of Note is a chorus of women that love to sing. They are holding an open night on Monday 22 July. The event will be held from 6.308.00pm at Mayfield Church of Christ, 31 Gregson Ave, Mayfield West.
Get along and see what they do. You can then join a 5-week prospective member program that starts the following week.
Singing with Hunter Women of Notes provides a rich and rewarding program, packed with learning, singing, performances, fun and friendship.
Try something new and see if
hunterwomenofnotechorus.com or by email: hwonchorus@
For more information contact the group via their
or phone Jan on 0415 879
Women of Note chorus.
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. Email Mark at The Local mark@hunterlocal.com.au by 19 July to claim your prize.
There’s a $25 voucher for Lambton Fruit Market, a $25 voucher for Piggott’s Pharmacy and a $25 voucher for Q’s Books at Hamilton to choose from.
First in best dressed with the choice of vouchers. The vouchers must be claimed by 19 July and redeemed at your chosen retailer no later than 31 August 2024.
None of our three lucky letterboxes were claimed last month. So the shopping vouchers have gone begging! Remember to check. If it’s not yours it could be your neighbour’s letterbox.
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.
The Local Quiz
Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner Assunta Baran of Jesmond. Assunta has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy. Last month’s mystery photo was taken the Jesmond end of the Inner City Bypass roadworks. 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 - What is the title of the next production from Newcastle Theatre Company?
Question 2 - Which local retirement village is holding an Open Day on 11 July?
Question 3 - What was the original name of the hotel on the corner of Morehead & Dickson Sts Lambton?
Question 4 - How many homes potentially will be built in Broadmeadow in coming years?
Question 5 - Where was the photo at right taken? Send your quiz answers to admin@hunterlocal. com.au with ‘The Local Quiz’ in the subject line or post them to PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299
by Friday 19 July for a chance to win a $25 gift voucher* to spend at any Piggott’s Pharmacy store in Newcastle and the Hunter.
Jenny MacLeod Retirement Village Open Day
Jenny MacLeod Retirement Village offers a relaxed, friendly environment set on seven acres of cottage gardens.
The village is conveniently located with close proximity to Jesmond Shopping Centre, John Hunter Hospital and is surrounded by 30 acres of natural bushland.
The village consists of 97 independent living villas and 44 serviced apartment units along with a community hub, bar and lounge area, library, games, and craft area allowing residents to engage in various social activities and events.
“We really are a connected
community here at Jenny MacLeod,” says Village Manager, Kim Simpson.
“A unique feature of our village is that we have both independent living villas and serviced apartments. So residents who feel they need a little extra support but want to maintain their independence, our serviced apartment units can provide additional services like cooking, cleaning, and laundry. It also means all our residents maintain that community connection with each other.”
With tailored care and support offered on site 24/7 for our residents in both the independent
living villas and serviced apartments, Jenny MacLeod is the perfect downsizing solution to your care needs.”
An Open Day, where you can tour the village and inspect both the independent living villas and the serviced apartments will be held on Thursday 11 July from 1.30 - 4pm. Bring your family and friends to see just how comfortable and connected your new retirement lifestyle could be.
If you’re thinking about retirement living at Jenny MacLeod and want to find out more, phone 4951 6637 or visit jennymacleod.com.au
Newcastle Theatre Co. tickets
The next production in Newcastle Theatre Company’s 2024 Season is Night Must Fall.
Be charmed! Be thrilled! But don’t be killed! This retro psychological thriller is set in the 1930s in a cottage
in an English village. Sad, serious young Olivia cares for her unpleasant aunt, the wealthy hypochondriac Mrs. Bramson.
A charming young man appears on the scene and is soon engaged as her live-in assistant.
Dan wastes no time making himself indispensable to the old lady.
But why is his hatbox so heavy? And how odd is some of his behaviour! When there is news of a grisly murder in the area, Olivia’s suspicions
about Dan grow but strangely she finds herself both attracted and fascinated by him. The play was written by Emlyn Williams and first performed in 1935. This Newcastle Theatre Company production is directed by Leanne Mueller.
“The excitement of the play hangs not on who committed the crime in the woods, but when the killer will strike again and who will be the victim.” – The New York Times, 1982
Night Must Fall opens at Newcastle Theatre Company on Saturday 6 July at 7.30pm.
Evening performances will be Wednesday, Friday and Saturday nights until 20 July. There will also be matinees performances at 2pm on Sunday 7, Saturday 13 and Saturday 20 July. The Local has a double pass to the winner’s choice of performance of Night Must Fall
BOOKINGS: call 4952 4958 or online newcastletheatrecompany.com.au
WEDNESDAY SPECIAL: all tickets $30 • 90 De Vitre Street • Lambton •
Season 6 - 20 July Wed, Fri, Sat 7.30pm Matinees Sun 7 July, Sat 13 & 20 July
To be in the running for the double pass just text the words ‘Night Must Fall’, your first and last name, and your preferred performance day/time to 0455 210 000 by Wednesday 3 July.
The winner will be advised by phone and their name published in next month’s issue of The Local.
Hey neighbour!
by Georgia Osland
Michelle Brown
Your July neighbour is a somewhat “accidental social justice warrior”.
“I didn’t set out to be that way,” says Lambton resident Michelle Brown, “but it’s something I’m passionate about.”
That ‘something’ Michelle refers to is protecting Wallarah and Blackley ovals neighbouring Lambton High School as public green space.
Michelle helped establish the ‘Save Our Lambton Ovals’ Facebook group and grassroots movement, which opposes the proposed development of a basketball stadium for which the site has been earmarked. The Facebook group has amassed more than 400 followers.
Having lived in the 2299 postcode for 20 years, the Malaysian-born
mum-of-two is an active user of the ovals, with both her sons, ages 7 and 9, playing for the Lambton Jaffas and the family’s energetic Labrador, Tuppence, needing daily walks.
At first it took some convincing for Michelle to dip her toe into community activism.
“I’m no face of anything; I’m not Anna Glasby [founder of the We Love Lambton Pool Alliance],”
Michelle tells The Local
“But I can do the research and consolidate data and say, here’s the information, do what you have to do to get it out there.”
With the amount of time dedicated to lobbying local councillors and state MPs and sharing information with the community, supported by fellow resident Jacqui Rosewood, it’s a wonder it hasn’t eclipsed Michelle’s day job as a postdoctoral scientific researcher at the Hunter Medical Research Institute (HMRI).
Michelle Brown believes her research and data skills have helped her with the community campaign to save Wallarah and Blackley Ovals from development
Still, Michelle has found a way to squeeze in her part-time studies in a Masters of Secondary Teaching, with the aim of one day teaching biology, chemistry, and a relatively new field of investigative science focused on problem-based learning.
She’s a particularly strong advocate for women in STEM.
“I like teaching; I’ve taught at the University [of Newcastle] where I’ve led a few smaller, problembased learning groups,” Michelle says, reflecting that this is not unlike her efforts to save the local ovals.
“It’s all about using the information you have to solve a problem.”
Visit: saveourlambtonovals. weebly.com for more information about the campaign.
Do you know a local resident whose story you would like to read here? Let us know by email: mark@hunterlocal.com.au
Marquis of Lorne Hotel
THAT WAS THEN This is now
with Lachlan Wetherall
The first hotel in Lambton opened in 1864 just months after the establishment of the colliery and township. Within a decade another six hotels had opened.
In 1873 Alexander Smith purchased a block of land on the corner of Morehead and Dickson Streets and called for tenders for the erection of a large public house. Construction commenced in January 1874 of a building with a Gothic style front, 60 feet by 25 feet and including a large billiardroom anticipated to be “one of the finest in the
district.” The new hotel commenced trading on Saturday 20 June 1874, and the following week on 29 June Mr and Mrs Smith held a celebration to formally christen the hotel the Marquis of Lorne, named after the British nobleman John Douglas Sutherland Campbell who held that title, and later became Governor General of Canada.
In Lambton, other new hotels opened and in 1881 the town reached a peak of 16 hotels operating at the same time.
The Marquis of Lorne had many publicans in its early years, two of whom tried to move the license to a different location. Richard Ward attempted a move to Elder Street in 1880, and John Quinlivan attempted a move to Robert Street Jesmond in 1929, with the licensing authority rejecting the application on both occasions.
In 1930 the hotel had a subtle change in name to the apostrophised Marquis O’ Lorne. Also in 1930, John Baptist Beisler became the licensee, and the Beisler family retained a connection with the hotel until 1979, an impressively long stint spanning 50 years.
In 1960 the original hotel was demolished and a new brick building erected at a cost of £67,508. Following renovations in 2007 it was renamed to The Mark Hotel, thus ending decades of misspellings and mispronunciations.
With 150 years of trading completed, The Mark Hotel is now one of only three hotels remaining in Lambton.
You can view these photos and more details at lachlanwetherall.com
Above: Marquis o’ Lorne Hotel, June 1924. Noel Butlin Archive, Australian National University. At left: The Mark Hotel today
Book Review
Sponsored by Q’s Books
Set in rural NSW, near the snowy mountains, the unnamed female narrator has escaped her marriage and city life for a ‘retreat’ with a small community of nuns. Despite her apparent atheism, she is drawn to the quiet, slow, predictable and repetitive monastic way of life.
Her temporary, visit to the monastery is extended seemingly indefinitely and she falls into the familiar rhythmic routine alongside the nuns. The sisters, yet all quiet and reclusive, have their individual personalities. Their way of life is simple and mostly sustainable.
The most horrifying and intriguing plotline was the post-covid mouse plague that swept throughout rural Australia. The vivid descriptions, including the sound, was startling: Mice scurrying behind the walls; above the ceiling; hurling themselves at closed windows; dropping on unexpected victims in the shower; curling up in people’s shoes; biting through wires, carpet, food containers and food. But the dead mice were even more horrifying: the initial act of chucking them over the fence and the unbearable smell that ensued to the excavation of a giant pit to fill with bucketfuls of dead mice extracted from the mouse traps daily.
The return of skeletal remains of one of the monastery’s sisters who had disappeared in Thailand decades earlier brings with them a figure from the narrator’s past, a now-famous nun and a former-school peer of the narrator’s. This connection to the past, returns the narrator to her childhood and Catholic school education.
An intriguing and unique read.
Review by Lizzie McLoughlin
Here to HELP
with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape
Head banging
I use this picture (above right) in every presentation I give about dealing with government. The picture never fails – heads nod, eyes roll and I even hear the occasional laugh. I’m never sure whether the laughs are saying “that’s funny”, “if I don’t laugh, I’ll cry”, or even “if I don’t laugh, I’ll start banging my head right now.”
Dealing with any large bureaucracy is often hard work. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a company, a charity or government. Partly because large organisations tend to attract risk-averse employees. People who want to know the limits of their role and what they will be doing each day. Entrepreneurs who have to deal with government, on the other hand, enjoy the freedom of forging their own paths.
Navigating between risk-averse employees of large organisations and entrepreneurs is like having a foot each side of a moving chasm. Personally, I enjoy it, but then I also enjoy
mountaineering, where I actually traverse chasms in glaciers.
There are a few things to keep in mind when dealing with large organisations:
• they move slowly (but will paradoxically allow you very short timeframes to respond to them)
• they are rarely “out to get you”
• their individual cogs, or sections, each view themselves as a distinct microbusiness, rather than part of a whole.
• the decision that is hurting you, or your business, right now was probably made because they just didn’t think of you – you’re not on their radar The solution? Patience, persistence and professionalism. Politely explain to them the impact their decision is having on you, have a solution ready, and keep at it.
VET Chat
with Dr Darren Gibbins of Elder St Vets
Senior pets need special care
At Elder Street Vets we regularly see dogs and cats in the later years, and we need to be aware that just like humans, dogs and cats have special requirements as they age. Dogs and cats in their golden years need extra care to ensure their wellbeing and quality of life.
Diet is a crucial aspect. Senior pets benefit from a diet tailored to their specific needs, such as lower calorie content to prevent obesity and higher fibre to aid digestion. I recommend foods enriched with antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain function and reduce inflammation. Weight
management goes hand in hand with diet. Keeping a close eye on your pet’s weight can prevent obesityrelated issues like diabetes and joint problems. Regular weigh-ins and portion control are essential. Exercise remains important, but it should be adjusted to fit your pet’s abilities. Short, gentle walks for dogs and interactive play sessions for cats can help maintain mobility and mental stimulation.
Dental care is another priority for senior pets. Dental disease is common in older pets, leading to pain and other health problems. Regular dental checkups and cleanings, along with at-home preventative care like chewing and even brushing, can make a significant difference.
Monitoring for diseases is the key, monitoring for lameness, urine output, breathing difficulty and appetite changes important. Senior pets are more susceptible to conditions like arthritis, kidney disease, and cancer. Regular veterinary visits, at least twice a year, allow us to catch any potential issues early. Blood tests, urinalysis, and other diagnostics help us keep track of your pet’s health. Early interventions often lead to more successful health outcomes.
Caring for a senior pet requires dedication, but the rewards are immense. With the right attention to diet, weight, exercise, dental care, and disease monitoring, your furry friend can enjoy a happy and healthy life in their later years.
Discs are not death
Around once a week someone comes to see me with a disc injury. It’s rarely pretty. Symptoms include: White face. Stoopy stand. Limping leg-itis. Quite sweary mouth. And it’s normal for this to turn into fear. Big pain = Big fear. To be totally honest, some of this is founded in reality. Disc injury can lead to very high pain levels, can take a long time to heal and can lead to referred pain, altered sensation and sometimes leg weakness. So, not as fun as a beachside daiquiri at Bora Bora.
The worst thing to do = nothing. That’s when the delicious combination of big pain + big fear can start to change your body and brain into warring entities that makes the Montagues vs Capulets seem like a gumnut baby garden party.
>>>To be clear, if you have these things: yucky pain down the leg > 6 weeks, increasing numbness, weakness into your leg (flappy foot or wobbly walk) or going to the toilet has become a problem - you need to see a doc. And get a scan. Post-haste.
But over 95% of disc issues won’t be in this camp and here’s where it becomes more optimistic…They Get Better. Discs can bulge a bit, but can also de-
bulge (that’s a technical description). Nerves can grouch off a bit, but can also de-grouch. Muscles can get spasmy, but can also de-spasm.
Most discs get better.
Give a good physio 6-8 weeks to treat and educate and gently exercise and we should start to see some bright green shoots of hope. No movement, no physio, no exercise = no hope. Gentle movement, properly excellent physio, basic exercises = Brightside hope.
Keep your chin up and get help with better physio. Book online here: www.brightsidephysio.com.au Or call the dangerously good front desk legends on 4062 8862.
with Ben Hutton of Brightside Physio
PHARMACY Matters
by Anthony Piggott of Piggott’s Pharmacies: Blackbutt, Branxton, Huntlee, Lambton and Merewether
Eczema & dermatitis
Dermatitis means skin inflammation. It usually causes a red, itchy skin rash. There are several different types of dermatitis, with different causes. Dermatitis is sometimes also called ‘eczema’. Dermatitis can usually be well managed with creams and ointments. Signs and symptoms Dermatitis can be an acute (short-term) skin reaction which lasts for a few hours or days, or it can be a chronic (long term) skin condition that continues over months or years. Signs and symptoms of dermatitis include itching, red hot skin, dry, scaly skin, small red bumps (papules) and blisters, weeping skin. Chronic dermatitis may also cause rough, thick, leathery skin and painful cracks in the skin.
Some types of dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is an irritation or allergic reaction caused by substances that have touched your skin. The pattern and area of the rash can give clues to the cause.
Allergic contact dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction. Common causes of skin allergies (allergens) include nickel (e.g. jewellery, coins), perfumes, medicines, plants and rubber (latex).
Irritant contact dermatitis- Repeated skin damage commonly caused by water, detergents, soaps, chemicals and rubbing. This often occurs on a person’s hands and is related to their job. For example cleaners, hairdressers, mechanics and nurses often get irritant dermatitis. Nappy rash and rash caused by dribbling saliva are types of irritant dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis (eczema) Eczema is a chronic dermatitis that may be inherited. It often occurs in people with a family history of eczema, asthma or hay fever. Eczema usually begins in early childhood and often affects the face, neck and creases of the elbows, wrists, knees and ankles. Many things (triggers) can cause a flare-up of eczema or make it worse, including stress, allergens, heat, weather changes, skin infections, dry skin, contact with irritating chemicals (e.g. soaps, artificial colours, preservatives, perfumes) and and rough fabrics (e.g.
wool, nylon).
The treatment of dermatitis includes finding and avoiding triggers, moisturising dry skin, relieving the itch, stopping inflammation, and treating and preventing skin infection. Ask a doctor or pharmacist for advice about dermatitis and its treatment. It is very important to moisturise the skin. It helps to relieve itch, prevent drying and cracking, and restore the skin’s protective role. Plenty of moisturiser applied at least twice a day, especially after bathing, can relieve and prevent dermatitis. There are many moisturising products (including natural products) available. Ask your pharmacist for advice to choose the best moisturiser for your skin.
Corticosteroids relieve skin inflammation and the symptoms of dermatitis. Corticosteroid creams, ointments and lotions are available in different strengths and potencies.
Pimecrolimus is a non-corticosteroid medicine that relieves skin inflammation. It can relieve the symptoms of atopic dermatitis (eczema). Pimecrolimus cream must be prescribed by a doctor.
Oral antihistamines, available from a pharmacist, can help relieve itching. Sedating antihistamines may be especially useful at night to help with sleep. Sedating antihistamines should not be given to children under 2 years unless prescribed by a doctor.
Tar preparations (e.g. coal tar, ichthammol), available from a pharmacist, can relieve itch and inflammation. Prescription medicines that weaken the immune system (e.g. azathioprine, cyclosporin tablets) may be needed to control severe chronic dermatitis. Wet dressing may be used in severe dermatitis under a doctor’s directions.
• Try to find and avoid triggers of your dermatitis.
• Avoid using soaps or bubble bath products, which can be drying and irritant. Use a non-soap cleanser. Ask a pharmacist for advice.
• Bathe or shower with lukewarm rather than hot water.
• Bath oil or oatmeal (half a cup of oats in a sock or stocking) can be added to your bath to relieve itch
• Dry yourself carefully after bathing. Pat your skin dry, quickly and gently, with the palms of your hands or a soft towel. Apply a moisturiser after bathing.
• Avoid scratching. To relieve itching, pat the skin, cool the area and apply a moisturiser. Cover itchy skin with a dressing if needed. Keep fingernails short and clean. Wear gloves at night.
• Heat can make dermatitis worse. Wear clothes that do not cause sweating. In winter, avoid electric blankets and turn down heaters (central ducted heating is drying). In summer, use fans and air conditioners.
Who will be the Executor of my will?
The choice of an executor for your will is a decision which should be given some thought. Usually the executors chosen will be the persons with the greatest interest in the estate or potentially the largest gift recipients.
There may be circumstances where it would not be suitable to appoint those people as your executors. For instance if the major beneficiaries are children, they cannot act as executors while they are minors. If the estate is large or complicated involving companies, trusts or organisations, it would be more appropriate usually to appoint professional executors or the public trustee. There are costs involved of course in appointing such executors.
If it is wished that a child be appointed as an executor, it is necessary to also appoint someone else who can act as executor until the child attains the age of majority.
Often the executor appointed will be someone the testator trusts and is comfortable that their wishes will be complied with. That person may be a family member or friend and they may not necessarily be a beneficiary under the terms of the will. If you are contemplating appointing a family member or friend as your executor it is wise to speak to them and explain to them the duties they would be required to perform.
The duties of an executor can be extensive, including firstly to execute the wishes of the deceased person. That includes gathering together all of the assets of the estate, paying the debts and liabilities of the deceased and distributing the rest of the estate to the beneficiaries named in the will.
An executor is usually appointed as the executor and trustee. When the executorial duties are at an end the person may be required to continue as trustee of the estate and to perform an ongoing role in relation to undistributed assets, managing and investing as necessary until the estate is finally distributed in totality.
Generally the role of executor of a will is fiduciary in nature. That is, the duties carried out on a ‘without payment’ basis. However executors can
Matters
by Chris Hill-Smith Accredited Specialist-Wills & Estates of Appleton
apply to the court for a commission for the ‘pain and trouble’ of acting as the executor. Professional trustees would ensure that a charging cause was incorporated into the will so that they could charge fees for their services.
In the normal case, when the appointed executor instructs a solicitor to perform all of the duties of the executor and to administer the estate, the solicitor may charge their fees according to a scale or costs structure.
Disclaimer
The content of this article is provided for information purposes only. The contents do not constitute legal advice and should not be used as such. Formal legal advice should be sought in particular matters.
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 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/
FAMILY SUPPORT NEWCASTLEMEN’S PROJECT
The Men’s Project is a free service for fathers who want to enrich their relationships with their children. We have two male workers who can assist and support fathers who have children aged between 0-18 years and may be experiencing some difficulties with parenting. These difficulties may include adjusting to coparenting after separation. We can provide individual family support to fathers and we also offer a variety of group programs. For more information about the services we offer to fathers please call 4926 3577 or go to: www.nfss.org.au
NEWCASTLE BIRTH MOVEMENT
Newcastle Birth Movement is a pregnant womans’ dream. Located inside Pachamama House, 21 Gordon Ave, Hamilton. We offer complimentary emotional support services with professionals, not-for-profit, hypnobirthing & many more great events. Plus preloved maternity, breastfeeding & babywear, all in great or excellent condition. Contact us by email at newcastlebirthmovement@gmail.com
To have a free community notice published on these pages 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.
COMMUNITY GROUPS
NEW LAMBTON FRIENDSHIP GROUP
New Lambton Friendship Group welcomes anyone looking for company, a chat and a cup of tea. Join us on Tuesdays, from 9.30 am to 2pm at the Uniting Church Regent Street, New Lambton. For more information contact Sandra Thompson on 0407 528 079.
HUNTER PROSTATE CANCER
AWARENESS AND SUPPORT GROUP
The Hunter Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group (HPCASG) is a group of locals who share one thing in common - Prostate health concerns. If you or a male family member are concerned about Prostate Health, we are here for you. Many have travelled a similar path with the same concerns and reservations. We often have topics of interest, and our local Prostate Cancer specialist nurses are often available to speak with. We are supported by Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and the Calvary Mater Hospital and meet on the second Tuesday of every month (except January), 2pm at Wallsend Diggers, 5 Tyrell Street, Wallsend near the Lemon Grove Hotel. Please feel free to come along and find that your concerns are acknowledged with us. We are here to help ourselves and others. Call 0458 960 300, come along to the meeting or visit our webpage http://hunterprostatesupport.org
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 14 August at 5.30pm. In July the 10th anniversary dinner for Lambton Residents Group will be held in lieu of a meeting. For more information email: lambtonresidents@gmail. com or call Angela on 0422 633 737.
Local Community Group Notices
COMMUNITY GROUPS
LAMBTON-NEW LAMBTON RSL SUB-BRANCH
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. Together, we all support each other and can assist you with any Department of Veteran Affairs claims, employment support and the transition from service-to-civilian life. For more information send an email to lambtonnew-lambtonsb@rslnsw.org.au
HUNTER ANIMAL WATCH
Hunter Animal Watch offers subsidised pet desexing for dogs and cats belonging to pensioners and health card holders. Phone 4961 6133 between 10am and 4pm Tuesday to Friday
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
NEWCASTLE SCRABBLE CLUB
at NEX Wests City, every Saturday 12 pm - 4pm. Cost $2 and you must be a member of Wests. Phone Christine 0407 484 851 or 49523001. Or just turn up. Free coaching available. A great friendly day out for scrabble enthusiasts.
BOOK AND COFFEE GROUP
Meeting fortnightly in Lambton. This discussion group will look at different books in the bible and discuss their relevance to today’s world. Contact Faye on 0411 166 500
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
HUNTER DISTRICT BROMELIAD SOCIETY
Are you interested in bromeliads, including tillandsias (air plants)? Do you want the opportunity to buy your plants cheap, directly from the growers? Then come along to Henderson Park Hall in Merewether on the third Saturday of each month and mix with fellow gardeners. We’re an active group with monthly competitions, guest speakers, demonstrations, Q&A, etc. Plant sales commence at 12.30pm and meetings at 1.15pm. Come along and get tips and advice direct from the experts in your local area.xFind us on Facebook or send enquiries to hdbssecretary@gmail.com
SMOCKING ARTS GUILD OF NSW INC NEWCASTLE GROUP
We are an enthusiastic and friendly group of people who meet each month to share our love of smocking and other crafts. We aim to preserve and foster the art of smocking and related needlework for future generations. Our group does this by organising group projects, encouraging individual efforts, supporting members to learn new skills, and demonstrating at community events. We meet on the 4th Saturday of the month at Church of the Good Shepherd, Joslin St, Kotara South, at 10am. We welcome new members and visitors. Find us on Facebook.
HUNTER WOMEN OF NOTE CHORUS
Do you love to sing and perform? The Chorus is open to women 18yrs and over. We meet every Monday evening and sing barbershop style . For information, visit our website www. hunterwomenofnotechorus.com, connect on Facebook, or phone Maureen 0404 496 262
To have a free community notice published on these pages 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.
Local Community Group Notices
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
HUNTER REGION FIELD NATURALISTS & NATURE JOURNALING CLUB
A local club started in Lambton 4 years ago offers free outdoor nature journaling sessions on the 4th Sunday of each month, to anyone interested in trying their hand at drawing or painting whilst exploring nature. Find out more on instagram or Facebook: @naturejournalclub.hunterregion
DOG RESCUE NEWCASTLE
Dog Rescue Newcastle is a volunteer organisation committed to saving lives. We are looking for donations to assist with the care of our foster dogs and puppies including: food supplies, flea/ tick treatments, beds, toys, collars/leads, puppy supplies If you can assist please call Maria Ph 0438 529 727
LAMBTON GARDEN CLUB
Lambton Garden Club meets at 1.30pm on the 3rd Saturday of each month in Lambton Library. Interesting topics, garden visits and outings are arranged. Contact Tammy for more information on Ph 4956 2241.
SOCIETY OF ARTISTS NEWCASTLE INC.
Society of Artists Newcastle Inc. is situated in Lambton Park. We have social art groups, workshops and members’ exhibitions. With more than 300 members we cater for many artists in the local area and provide a practicing art community for over a hundred members each week at our rooms. Call Ann-Maree Kelly (president) on 0417 261 891 or go to www.societyofartistsnewcastle. com for further information.
HOBBIES & INTERESTS
NEWCASTLE CREATIVE EMBROIDERERS AND TEXTILE ARTISTS (NCEATA)
Do you enjoy working creatively with textiles and fibres? If so, you might be interested in joining NCEATA, a group of individuals with varying skill levels and interests who come together to interact, learn, share and exhibit their creative works. You can find more information about our workshops and meetings, as well as examples of our textiles, on our website www.nceata.org and Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ NCEATA. We have two meetings every month, except for December, which are subject to change depending on public holidays. Our meetings are held on the 1st Monday of the month from 10am to 1pm and on the 3rd Saturday of the month from 1pm to 4pm at Belair Church Hall located at 130 Garden Grove Parade, Adamstown. We welcome visitors who are interested in joining our group. If you have any questions, please feel free to email us at secretary@nceata.org.
SPORTS GROUPS
ALDER PARK SPORTS CLUB
Wanting to try lawn bowls or join a new club? Then come take a look at Alder Park. Male and female bowlers welcome. Club championship nominations are awaiting your name. Ladies Gala day is Tuesday. Wednesday Gala day and raffle. Open and female pennants coming next season. At Alder Park there are no strangers, only friends we haven’t met yet. For more information contact Brad on 0405 988 518 or Julie on 0409 469 481.
To have a free community notice published on these pages 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.
Local Community Group Notices
SENIORS GROUPS
LAMBTON SENIORS GROUP
Interested in playing cards? Canasta is a great social game and is played every Thursday from 9.30 am to 1.00 pm at Jesmond Bowlo, 48 Mordue Parade (near Jesmond Mall). 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 4952 3685 or Des 4955 5032.
BEL AIR VIEW CLUB
Bel Air View Club meets on the third Monday of each month at South Leagues Club Merewether at 10.30 am. Visitors and new members are warmly welcomed to join us for friendship and interesting guest speakers and to help support the Smith Family’s Learning for Life program which assists young Australian school children create a better future for themselves. For any further information please phone Gillian on 4963 5655.
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 Ruth 0439 478 431
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. Come along and meet our friendly ladies and look over our beautiful club. We’re sure you will want to join for the social aspects and exercise. For more information ph Bev 4955 0080 or Marion 0408 433 893.
SENIORS GROUPS
LADIES PROBUS CLUB OF NEW LAMBTON
Are you recently retired or semi-retired and looking for a friendly group of ladies to share activities and social outings with? Our Club has vacancies for new members. Our monthly activities include active and interesting walks, book club, movies/theatre/shows, day trips, birthday lunches and a monthly meeting with guest speaker on the fourth Monday at Wallsend Diggers Club, Tyrrell Street Wallsend. If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of please contact Eileen at eileencampbell46@ yahoo.com.au or on 0428 991 184.
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 4 lunches at the Wetlands per year. If you would like to find out more about this Club, please contact Alan on 49683325 or email westalan@hotmail.com
NEWCASTLE MEN’S PROBUS CLUB
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 9:15 so we can meet and greet you. We would love to meet you at our next meeting. https://www.newcastleprobus. org/ Contact Brian Prior 0415 081 610.
Local Classifieds...
FOR SALE
BUDGERIGARS
Bush and modern budgies for sale, starting from $15 Ph 0456 919 046
CHAIRS
Wooden chairs with tapestry seats, very good condition, 6 for $25 Ph 0414 432 457
FURNITURE
Burgundy leather lounge with 2 recliner armchairs & 2.5 seat lounge with recliners $600. Timber table with six chairs $450. Ph 0403 682 853
FURNITURE
Large dining table plus 6 chairs in good condition $200. Glass oval cane table & two chairs $60. Timber coffee table $40. All good cond. Ph 0431 610 116
HONEY
Local 100% pure and natural, no heating or sugar syrup, from our hives. Pick up New Lambton. $15 per kg Ph 0423 050 778
INCONTINENCE UNDERWEAR
Depends underwear medium (52 to 86kg) packs of 8 $10 or box of 4 packets $30 per box Ph 0401 577 332
LADIES COAT
Navy car coat, size 12 $25 Ph 0407 725 262 or 4952 5262
LADIES LEATHER JACKET
Black, hip length, size 12 $30 Ph 0407 725 262 or 4952 5262
BABY COT
Baby Bunting white cot with innerspring mattress & mattress protector. Can revert to single bed, excellent condition, used only sparingly by Grandparents babysitting. Ph 0409 525 385 or 4952 5385
CHILD’S CAR SAFETY SEAT
Safe N Sound Maxi Rider, excellent condition, used sparingly for babysitting Ph 0409 525 385 or 4952 5385
ELECTRIC ORGAN
Electric organ in very good condition, pick up New Lambton Ph 0414 432 457
EXERCISE BIKE
Exercise bike, in good condition, pick up from New Lambton. Ph 0417 796 336
NOTICES
All painting and gyprock repairs, plus most services in small renovation works. 30 years experience. Phone Jason anytime Ph 0423 233 727
Available for rubbish removal, shed clearing and yard work. Good rates. Contact Ian Ph 0432 201 121
Trip to Fingal Bay Surf Club for 12 noon lunch. Wednesday 17 July. Leaving 10.30am from Wests New Lambton. For bookings & details Ph 4952 8590
Send your Local Classifieds ad to us by 15th of the month by email:
com.au or PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299. They’re free for private party advertising.
Local Classifieds...
NOTICES
SISTER ACT - THE MUSICAL
At Capitol Theatre Sydney on Wednesdays 14 August, 28 August and 11 September at 1pm. Coach will leave Wests New Lambton at 8am each day. Cost $105 pp show & coach. For bookings and details Ph 4952 8590
TICKETS FOR NEWCASTLE THEATRE CO. IN 2024
• Night Must Fall - Saturday 13 July at 2pm.
• The Effect - Saturday 17 August at 2pm
• Travelling North -Saturday 28 September at 2pm
• The Game’s AfootSaturday 9 November at 2pm
Tickets $30pp, saving $5pp. For bookings Ph 4952 8590
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
Send your Local Classifieds ad to us by 15th of the month by email: admin@hunterlocal. com.au or PO Box 130, Jesmond 2299.
GENTLE
FLOW YOGA
Nourish and connect mind & body with social, emotional & physical strengthening
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. Keep moving through the cooler months and enjoy the benefits of a gentle yoga practice. Welcome beginners and seniors, suitable for most ages. Gift vouchers available. Inquiries and bookings: Michelle Pirie
0400 790 479
(Dip Yoga Teaching IYTA)
WANTED TO BUY
ALUMINIUM BOAT
Wanted: 8 foot aluminium boat, trailer not essential. Ph 0423 974 694
FITTING & MACHINING BOOK
Fitting & Machining book written by Ron Culley. Phone Braith Ph 4952 2352
METAL STORAGE LOCKER
Wanted: single door metal storage locker, no dings, will pay Ph 0428 725 280
OLD MOTOR VEHICLES
Wanted to buy old Holden or Ford from 1960s or 70s to do up. Ph 0415 489 590
SLIDE RULES
Looking for slide rules or similar devices Ph 4952 2352
VHS PLAYER
Wanted: VHS video player in working order Ph 0423 974 694
LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS
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SOMETHING TO SELL OR TO TELL?
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