The Local - October 2022

Bus disaster

An Upper House enquiry into the privatisation of Newcastle Buses has found that public transport customers are now worse off. Abigail Boyd MLC, Chair of the Committee, said “The findings of this report are clear - the privatisation of our bus services has been a disaster and it’s the public and workers paying the price.

“There has been a continual degradation of services following privatisation, and workers and the community are furious. Ms Boyd continued, “The people of New South Wales deserve accessible, affordable and reliable public bus services. They have a right to expect that the NSW Government will deliver this public service not just to make a profit, but because it’s the right thing for government to do – to empower community mobility and equity.” (continued on page 6)

property management

Steve Sue Scott

Advertising bookings for November

issue will close Monday 17 October

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Matters

Open invitation

Some days each week I either leave for work in the early morning or I get home from work in those same wee hours.

One morning a few months ago I pulled into the driveway just after 6am to find my wife’s car as usual. What was unusual was the front doors being wide open. I checked inside. The glovebox was open but there was no sign that anything had been taken. “Thank heavens” I thought.

I went inside the house and found the car keys safely in my wife’s handbag. I knew then that these opportunistic car thieves had received an ‘open’ invitation to rifle through the car.

My wife was in disbelief that she would ever have left the car unlocked. Then, when she cast her mind back to the evening before, the two kids having an argument in the back seat, their school bags upended and the contents spilling out, the boot full of groceries and the incoming phone call just as she pulled in the driveway, it all made sense.

We often read on community social media pages about groups of (mostly) young men caught on security cameras and/or disturbed by residents as they tried the car doors around our streets.

It’s one thing to report crime to your neighbours and warn the wider community through Facebook but it’s another thing entirely to report it to Police so that it is captured in official crime statistics.

As Sonia Hornery, Member for Wallsend rightly points out “always report any offences that have occurred to Police. It not only is the best chance of catching the offenders but it also informs the police as to where resources need to be allocated the most.”

If a crime is in progress, the suspect is still at the scene or someone is in immediate danger call 000. Otherwise call the Police Assistance Line 131 444.

with Mark Brooker Publisher of The Local

Lambton Park Carols return

After a two-year hiatus Lambton Park will once again be turned into a Christmas spectacular as thousands of local families come together for Lambton Park Carols on Sunday 18 December.

An army of volunteers will put on the event, which includes live carols, activities and amusements, a host of local Newcastle food trucks, plus a spectacular fireworks display at the end of the night.

The free event, hosted by Hunter Bible Church, is the ideal opportunity for the local community to celebrate the pre Christmas period together.

Due to pandemic restrictions the event has not been staged since December 2019.

“We are super excited to be able to run Carols again in 2022. We have really missed the opportunity to serve the community over the

past two years. Last year was particularly devastating as we had a bunch of plans in place that we then had to pull out of last minute due to COVID outbreaks. So we’re pumped to be back again this year!” Lambton Park Carols Director and Pastor Sam Hilton told The Local.

For further updates follow @ LambtonCarols on Facebook or go to www.lambtoncarols.com.au/

Many thousands of local families have attended Lambton Park Carols over the years. Organisers are excited to be bringing the event back after two years of pandemic interruptions

Share ideas to shape City’s future

City of Newcastle (CN) will bring together 100 people from all walks of life to help shape how the community’s voice can best be heard to guide the city’s future.

‘Your Newcastle, Your Voice’ is a public workshop to be held at Wallsend Library on 15 October as an initiative to inform CN’s new four-year Community Engagement Strategy.

Lord mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the City’s approach to engagement was based on inclusiveness, transparency, and responsiveness and the new strategy would build on this to ensure all Novocastrians feel a part of the Council decision making process.

“By involving the community in shaping our community engagement strategy, we will better understand how the community want to be engaged but also if

there are barriers to participating in providing feedback that will help us adapt our approach,” Cr Nelmes said.

“We are committed to genuine consultation beyond any statutory requirements because we recognise the immense value of engaging early with the community to achieve better planning outcomes.”

Earlier this year, CN released its Community Strategic Plan, Newcastle 2040, which was developed based on the input of 4,500 people from a broad representation of the community who shared their aspirations and priorities for Newcastle’s future.

“Whether developing key strategies like Newcastle 2040, or major projects like Newcastle Ocean Baths upgrade, we achieve better outcomes with the community actively engaging in decision-

making,” Cr Nelmes said.

“We want all members of our community to have the opportunity to shape the future of this city and through the ‘Your Newcastle, Your Voice’ workshop we will hear directly from the community about the best ways to achieve this.”

Using a series of past project case studies, the ‘Your Newcastle, Your Voice’ workshop will seek feedback from community participants on what has been effective and where CN can improve engagement with the community.

The ‘Your Newcastle, Your Voice’ community workshop will be held on Saturday 15 October from 10am to 1pm at Wallsend Library. The community can express their interest to participate in the workshop via City of Newcastle’s website.

Sonia Hornery MP

State Member for

(from front page)

“The community and many dedicated bus drivers who worked for the NSW Government’s bus operator, the State Transit Authority, have been let down by the government’s decision to cease operating any bus services and contract out this responsibility to the private sector. This inquiry has taken a critical lens to the transfer of bus services... from the State Transit Authority to private bus operators, most of which are large and multinational companies.”

Ms Boyd added, “The NSW Government’s objective to cut operational costs and the private operators’ objective to make a profit has come at the expense of effective and reliable bus services for the public, with a dramatic cut in bus services occurring across various regions. In addition, fair and equitable pay and working conditions for bus drivers have been compromised and some have been subjected to poor, and sometimes unsafe, working environments.”

According to the report there is a strong case for bus services to revert to government operation.

Local MPs Tim Crakanthorp, Jodie Harrison and Yasmin Catley, who each made submissions to the enquiry, offered detail on some of the many local bus customers who have been impacted by late and cancelled services since the network was put in the hands of private operator Keolis Downer in early 2018.

Is your letterbox feeling lucky?

If one of the letterboxes pictured above is yours, you’ve won a $25 shopping voucher from one of three great local retailers. Phone us at The Local on 0455 210 000 by Friday 14 October to confirm your address and choose 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 14 October and redeemed at your chosen retailer no later than 31 October.

Congratulations to the residents of 24 Shereline Ave, Jesmond and 213 St James Rd, New Lambton who each claimed a prize last month by correctly identifying their letterboxes.

Time for a chemical clean out?

Household Chemical CleanOuts are held twice a year. Next event is Saturday 29 October at Tighes Hill TAFE campus

Did you know you can use the Household Chemical CleanOut service to safely dispose of household chemicals—such as cleaning products, motor oil and pesticides—that could harm human health and the environment if placed in your bins or poured down the drain.

CleanOut events are held twice each year in Newcastle, and at other locations across NSW on specified dates. NSW residents can make use of any event, free of charge.

The next Household Chemical CleanOut will be 9am to 3.30pm

on Saturday 29 October at Newcastle (Tighes Hill) TAFE Student Car Park, 266 Maitland Road, Tighes Hill (opposite Henry Street).

The events are supported by the Environmental Trust as part of the NSW EPA’s Waste Less, Recycle More initiative funded from the Waste Levy.

You can take household quantities of the following household chemicals and items (up to a maximum of 20 litres or 20 kilograms of a single item) solvents and household cleaners, floor care products, ammonia-

based cleaners, pesticides and herbicides, poisons, pool chemicals, hobby chemicals, motor fuels, fluorescent globes and tubes, acids and alkalis, smoke detectors, paint and paint-related products, gas bottles, fire extinguishers, car and household batteries, motor oils and cooking oils. Businessrelated and commercial quantities of chemicals are not accepted.

For more information see newcastle.nsw.gov.au/living/ waste-and-recycling/problemwastes/chemicals/householdchemical-cleanout/

Hamilton MARKETS

Hello from Hamilton Business Association (HBA). We are a progressive volunteer collaborative that promotes a precinct that is welcoming and enjoyable for everyone. HBA won the City of Newcastle’s community group of the year in 2021. Love Local Love Hamilton.

and planted over the coming months. The beautiful telephone and electricity boxes that were painted by Rebecca Murray have had a lot of graffiti recently and we will be working to get that cleaned up very soon. We have also been working with natural history artist Shannon Bellamy who has painted more of the boxes throughout Hamilton with amazing designs. Make sure you read our update next month for information of what we have in store for Hamilton over the Christmas season! That’s all for now… Love Local Love Hamilton

Beautification of Hamilton is a focus of the HBA. We have been working closely with Islington local Jared Lawler, owner of Herb Urban. We have successfully installed 15-20 hanging plant baskets with more coming soon. Take a look above shopfronts at Rainbow Runner, Beaumont St Butchery, July Jones or the IGA to see the green gardens which have established themselves wonderfully over the past 6 months. Next on the list is more hanging baskets, green walls and some much needed love to the mosaic plant pots that are spread over Beaumont St. These will be repositioned

PROVIDORE MARKET

James St Plaza  9am – 1pm every Saturday

HAMILTON MARKETS

Gregson Park 2nd Saturday each month

For more information and keep up to date on all our current and upcoming projects join us on Facebook HelloHamiltonNSW and Instagram hello_hamilton_nsw

The Local Quiz

Congratulations to last month’s quiz winner, Luke Camberwell of Jesmond. Luke has won a $25 voucher to spend at Piggott’s Pharmacy.

Last month’s mystery photo was taken in the pedestrian underpass at Broadmeadow Station.

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:

In what year did the three founders of Leonora Glass Industries come to Australia?

Question 2:

Where is the ‘Your Newcastle, Your Voice’ community workshop being held?

Question 3:

Who wrote the play ‘The Rest is Silence’?

Question 4:

What date in December will Lambton Park Carols be?

Question 5:

Where would you find the object pictured above right?

(bonus credit if you can tell us what it’s for. We have no idea!)

Send your quiz answers to admin@hunterlocal.com. au with ‘The Local Quiz’ in the subject line or post them to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by Friday 14 October 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

Win tickets to NTC production

If you could write your own eulogy, what would you say?

Dan has a way with words. He is an aspiring actor, paying the bills by delivering eulogies at funerals.

Dan is hired by terminally ill Bedford, who wants to control what is said about him when he’s dead.

Somehow Dan has to find not just the words, but the truth, to talk about a life not yet ended.

A psychological drama dressed in dark humour, The Rest is Silence was written by former ABC journalist and presenter Scott Bevan.

By ScottBevan

Scott has previously written three plays, all of which have been produced on stage. The Rest is Silence is his first play to be performed here in his home town of Newcastle.

Scott recently turned his hand to acting playing Ned Darcy, Les’ father, in Newcastle Theatre Company’s production of The Les Darcy Show earlier this year. The Local has a double pass to The Rest is Silence to giveaway. To be in the running for the double pass text the word ‘Silence’, your name, suburb and preferred performance date to 0455 210 000 by Friday 7 October. Winner will be advised by phone and their name published in the November issue of The Local.

Directed by ClaireWilliams and Phillip Ross

Journalist, author and playwright Scott Bevan, at right, playing Les Darcy’s father Ned in Newcastle Theatre Co’s production of The Les Darcy Show. Photo by Joerg Lehmann

Pandemic impacts crime stats

Statistics released in September by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) show that police reports of domestic violence (DV) assault increased 11% in the five years to June 2022. Sexual assault reports increased 14% over the same period. By contrast, recorded incidents of nine of the 13 major crime categories showed large declines over the last five years.

Break and enter - dwelling was 36% lower in 2021/22 compared with 2017/18. Robbery was 38% lower in 2021/22 compared with 2017/18. Car theft was 18% lower in 2021/22 compared with 2017/18.

Other major offences showing significant declines over 5 years were non-DV assault which was down by 14%, break and enter–non dwelling was down by 33%, steal from motor vehicle was down by 31%, retail theft down by 30%, other stealing offences were down by 34%, and malicious damage to property was down by 20%.

BOCSAR Executive Director, Jackie Fitzgerald said that the pandemic had wildly disrupted criminal behaviour resulting in unprecedented falls in crime across NSW. “The Covid-crime reduction has delivered huge benefits to the volume of property offences. Unfortunately, however violent crimes generally have not fallen.

Police reports of domestic assault and sexual offences were already increasing before the pandemic and that hasn’t changed.”

State member for Wallsend Sonia Hornery MP reminded local residents to “always report any offences that have occurred to Police. It not only is the best chance of catching the offenders but it also informs the police as to where resources need to be allocated the most.”

checkup at least

a

Letter to Tai Chi may help COVID recovery

Tai Chi is a potent and suitable rehabilitation tool for post COVID-19 and Long COVID affected individuals.

A severe COVID-19 disease course can lead to fibrotic changes in the lung that could possibly cause a long-term impairment of the lung function. In COVID patients, spots of inflammation are frequently observed in CT images of the lower lung lobes. These patches might make it difficult to breathe during sustained exercise and if unresolved can potentially lead to fibrotic changes. Diaphragmatic breathing learned during Tai Chi encourages air into the lower lobes thus counteracting the inflammatory process.

One of the most debilitating long COVID signs is fatigue. It has been reported that the fatigue may persist longer than a year post COVID-19. However,

there is an indication that it may last even longer, since 40% of survivors from previous coronavirus outbreaks such as the SARS epidemics in 2003 suffered from chronic fatigue and mental illnesses up to 4 years after the disease.

In addition, a recent study has shown that insomnia, anxiety and depression are very prevalent among the general population during the COVID-19 pandemics with twice as high prevalence as compared to nonpandemic periods and even higher among patients with COVID-19. These observations indicate an urgent need to prevent long-term adverse outcomes associated with insomnia and mental health problems.

Initiation of Tai Chi practice soon after recovering from acute COVID-19 could potentially decrease the risk for developing long-term COVID. Tai Chi improves both blood and energy flow, activates the relaxation response and thus balances the autonomic nervous system and can thereby potentially counteract fatigue and improve cognitive function as well as anxiety and depression, all common long COVID symptoms.

Tai Chi potentially improves lung function by counteracting the fibrotic scar formation and decreasing long-term COVID fatigue and thereby the risk for development of mental disorders. Moreover, the practice is at the same time likely to increase muscular strength, mobility and vitality, which should in turn empower the individuals affected by COVID-19 to actively contribute to their recovery. Hence, implementation of Tai Chi in rehabilitation of COVID-19 affected individuals, for both short and long term disease courses, can be highly recommended.

Amanda Heidke - Tai Chi Centre Australia, Newcastle & Lake Macquarie

United States National Library of Medicine and National Centre for Biotechnology Information

Castro JP, Kierkegaard M, Zeitelhofer M. A Call to Use the Multicomponent Exercise Tai Chi to Improve Recovery From COVID-19 and Long COVID. Front Public Health. 2022 Feb 28;10:827645. doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.827645. PMID: 35296042; PMCID: PMC8918505.

THAT WAS THEN This is now with Lachlan Wetherall Leonora Glass

When the old Lambton colliery ceased operation, the pit paddock with its offices and buildings lay idle for a decade. Then 75 years ago, in 1947, a new enterprise began on the site with the opening of Leonora Glass Industries, founded by three highly skilled Czechoslovakian glass workers.

Joseph and Henry Vecera and Josef Tvrdik came to Australia in 1934 to teach glass making at a Sydney factory. They later moved to Newcastle to work in the Electric Lamp Manufacturers Australia factory at Hamilton North. In 1946 the three men and their families became Australian citizens, and the

following year set out to create their own glass making business. They rented a portion of the Lambton colliery and set up furnaces in the former colliery workshop.

In August 1947 they registered their enterprise as “Leonora Glass Industries”, possibly inspired by the town of Lenora in the Czech Republic, just 30km from Josef Tvrdik’s birthplace, where a famous glassworks had operated since 1834. Manufacturing commenced the following month and by December 1948 the works employed 23 people including several young apprentices. At this time they were making 2,000 lamp shades a week. In the following years they produced many items such as wine glasses, dishes, ash trays, and car headlight lenses.

While the bulk of Leonora’s output was utilitarian in nature, they also handcrafted fine glassware such as jugs, vases, and decorative ornaments. Museums across Australia hold examples of these works in their collections.

In July 1957 glassmaking in Lambton came to an abrupt halt when a fire destroyed the Leonora works. The company quickly recovered, purchasing 14 acres of land on Douglas St Wallsend to set up a new factory. In 1960 the multinational firm Philips Industries took over the glassworks to focus on the manufacture of light fittings. Although business expanded in the 1960s, increasing pressure from low cost overseas competitors in the 1970s led to the eventual closure of the works in 1982.

and more details at lachlanwetherall.com

these

At right: Henry Vecera, one of three co-founders, making a wine glass at Leonora Glassworks in Lambton. Photographs from Newcastle Morning Herald and Miners’ Advocate, 7 October 1947.

Opposite page: A hand blown glass jug from the Leonora Glass Works, 1955. Image courtesy of Newcastle Museum.

Favourite books

At Q’s Books we are often asked for recommendations. So for the next few issues we thought we would list some of our favourites over the past few years for you to consider. Enjoy!

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Jasper Jones by Craig Silvey

Bear Town by Fredrik Backman

by Sue Monk Kidd

by

Here to HELP

I have heard countless times that only the big end of town can influence government decision-making, or that government has already made up its mind – so what’s the point to try and talk to them, or even don’t talk to government – you will make yourself a target for future audit activity.

Urban myths

Dear Here to Help,

I am in a group with other businesses and professionals and we were recently discussing how to get better results from government. Some members of our group said “don’t bother” – government won’t change their minds based on the likes of us. Other people said that we should first talk to government, so they can tell us what their plans are, and then we can formulate our wish list based on those parameters, because government will never go outside what it has already decided. Other members of our group thought it would be better to first determine what we actually want as a group, then engage with government.

What is the best way to get better results from government – base our wish list on government’s plans, or create our wish list before we engage with government?

Thank you for your query.

This is an interesting question – can just one person, just one business, just one charity, just one not for profit, just one group of small businesses, etc influence government decision-making?

I can tell you that these “urban myths” are untrue. Government’s role is to make our community the best it can be. Now, there are different ways to interpret that and we might not all agree on what makes things better. However, one thing that most of us can agree on is that government – and the community – can find ways to make our communities better.

If you have ideas on how government could do things better to help your business, your community or your industry, it is always worthwhile engaging. Here are the top ways I have found work to positively influence government decision-making.

1. Groups are stronger than individuals – work with your industry association, community or business group to put your proposal to government as a group.

2. It can always be useful to talk to government and find out their priorities as an input to developing your solutions for issues you identify.

3. Don’t limit yourself to what you think government wants or might be prepared to do – be bold and identify your best possible option. You might have to negotiate another solution. On the other hand, you never know – you might end up with your best possible option. Aim high.

4. Develop your proposal and present it to government – something well thought-out, well written and well presented has a better chance of success.

The moral of the story is that government decisions can be improved with the valuable input of ordinary people, whether in business or community groups.

with Elaine Abery of Unravelling Red Tape

Sore back, sore back, sore back

“It’s always going to be like this” Gary* had done 2 hours of mowing on a blustery spring morning and just like he’d predicted, his lower back had ‘gone out’. Cometh the back pain, cometh the couch. Much to his wife’s amusement (and frustration) the rest of the weekend was spent migrating from bed to couch to fridge. Rinse and repeat. So, understandably, when he shuffled into Brightside, Gary had the air of a man with a large dose of resignation and very little

honest, if physio could actually help. In fact. He was considering some surgery to ‘fix’ it. Here’s a cheery statistic: 80% of us will experience lower back pain at some stage in our life. Thankfully, most of us will never know the tender touch of a surgeon’s scalpel for back pain. Gary though, was desperate. He could see his life slowly ebbing away into the worn middle cushion on his couch and he was sure the next time he asked his wife to ‘help me put my underwear on’ – she might well stuff them into his…mouth. So the ol’ slice and dice was looking increasingly attractive.

We didn’t do any voodoo with Gary. No chanting. No complicated ‘realignment procedures’ and no scalpels. It was simple. We loosened up his stiff bits (upper back and hips) and got him doing a select few strengthening exercises that were designed to increase his confidence and capacity.

Here’s the truth. 4 weeks in and he’s not there yet. Gary reckons he’s 55.8% better and has a way to go. But he’s putting his own undies on. And he’s got a cheeky spark back in his eye and that’s because he has hope. Helen is now taking new patients and she has over 20yrs experience treating back and neck pain. If you want to mow your lawn without a couch collapse, ring our delightful team on 4062 8862 or book online at:

with Ben Hutton of Brightside Physio

by Chris Hill-Smith of Appleton Law, Lambton

What is an Informal Will?

There are strict requirements in relation to how wills are made and executed to ensure they are valid and accepted by the court as expressing the true testamentary intentions of the person.

When an instrument or document apparently sets out how a person wishes to deal with their assets upon death but the formal requirements for a will have not been complied with, a court may none-the-less grant probate or letters of administration of that document if satisfied of certain things. Such a document may be found to be an ‘informal will’.

Before the court will accept such a document as an informal will it must be satisfied that there is a ‘document’. A document can be anything from which sounds, images or writings can be reproduced. Audio

tapes and discs have been found to come within the scope of the definition. In a Queensland case the Court found that an unsent SMS text message left by a person on their phone setting out how they wished their estate to be dealt with constituted an informal will and granted letters of administration of that document.

The court must also be satisfied that the document must purport to state the person’s testamentary intentions, that is, how they wish their estate to be dealt with after their death. Drafts or expressions of wishes subject to change of mind will not be sufficient.

The third requirement, and the matter which generally prevents an informal will being accepted by the court, is that the court must be satisfied that the person intended ‘that’ particular document to form their will and to have immediate effect as their will. Written instructions for a will obviously contemplate a later formal document and therefore will not be accepted as an informal will. The court must also be satisfied that the person had testamentary capacity at the time they prepared the informal document.

If the court accepts the informal will and makes a grant in relation to the document it has the same effect and operation as a will which complies with the formal requirements.

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.

PHARMACY Matters

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

Hay fever

Hay fever is the common name for allergic rhinitis. It is an allergic reaction in the nose, throat and eyes.

Hay fever often occurs in spring and summer, when it is caused by airborne pollens from trees, plants and grasses. Medicines can relieve and prevent symptoms of hay fever.

• reduced sense of smell and taste

• snoring

• feeling tired, run-down, irritable.

Hay fever symptoms are often worse in the mornings, on windy days and after thunderstorms (when the amount of pollen in the air is highest).

Hay fever, or allergic rhinitis, is usually caused by inhaling pollens that are present in the air at certain times of the year. Some people have symptoms of allergic rhinitis all year round. Constant symptoms can be caused by allergens such as animal hair, moulds, house dust mites and cockroaches. A doctor can arrange ‘allergy skin tests’ to help find the cause of allergic rhinitis.

Signs and symptoms

Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include:

• sneezing

• runny nose

• blocked nose (congestion)

• itching nose, ears, mouth or throat

• puffy, itchy, watery and red eyes

• headaches

• post-nasal drip (mucus from the nose and sinuses runs down the back of the throat), which can cause coughing

An allergic reaction in the nose can also cause sinus problems, including pain and pressure around the cheeks, eyes and forehead.

People who get allergic rhinitis often also suffer from other allergic conditions such as asthma, eczema (an itchy skin rash) or hives (itchy, lumpy skin). The symptoms of these conditions may appear or worsen when the allergic rhinitis symptoms appear.

Self care

Try to find and avoid the things that cause your allergy symptoms. Ways to protect against allergic rhinitis include:

• Stay indoors when there is a lot of pollen in the air (e.g. on windy days).

• Keep house and car windows closed during pollen season.

• Use air conditioning and/ or air filtering systems during pollen season.

• Shower and wash your hair after being outdoors.

• Wear wrap around sunglasses and a face mask when gardening or outdoors.

• Remove house and garden plants that give you allergic rhinitis.

• Avoid cigarette smoke and make your house smoke free.

• Avoid room deodorisers, mothballs and insect sprays.

• Clean your house regularly to remove mould and dust.

• Remove dust with a clean, damp cloth; vacuum instead of sweeping.

• Remove dust collectors (e.g. dried flowers, stuffed animals, curtains and upholstered furniture).

• Replace carpets with hard surfaces (e.g. timber or tiles).

• Put mattresses, quilts and pillows in washable, dust mite resistant covers, or use low allergy bedding.

• Wash bed linen weekly in hot water (at least 60ºC) or use an anti-dust mite washing product. Leave blankets and quilts in the sun for at least four hours to kill dust mites.

• Wash soft toys regularly in hot water (at least 60ºC).

• Remove sheepskins, hides and woollen and feather bedding.

• Keep animals outdoors.

• Repair plumbing leaks to prevent mould.

• Avoid wood-fires and kerosene heaters.

Medicines

A variety of medicines can help relieve and prevent the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. Most are available from a pharmacist without a prescription.

Some medicines for allergic rhinitis should not be used by children, pregnant or breastfeeding women or people with certain medical conditions.

Many cold, flu and cough products should not be given to a child under six years of age. Always ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice.

Local Community Group Notices

CHILDREN & FAMILIES

NEWCASTLE & HUNTER TOY LIBRARY

Newcastle and Hunter Toy Library is calling all ‘kids at heart’ to become regular volunteers to assist with the running of the Toy Library sessions on 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 newcastletoylibrary@gmail. com for more information about joining our enthusiastic team. For more information search @newcastleandhuntertoylibrary on Facebook.

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 co-parenting 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

COMMUNITY GROUPS

NEWCASTLE MEN’S SHED

Newcastle Men’s Shed is now open at 99 Beaumont Street Hamilton, next door to Westpac. The shop front is open weekdays 9am to 2pm. New members are welcome. For more information phone 0498 365 207 or email newcastleshed@gmail.com

COMMUNITY GROUPS

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

WARLGA NGURRA

WOMEN & CHILDREN’S REFUGE

A Market Day raising funds for Warlga Ngurra Women and Children’s Refuge will be held from 9am to 3pm on Saturday 15 October.

Money raised enables the Refuge to hold their Annual Christmas Party for their clients in the Refuge and their Outreach Programme families. There will be lots of stalls with brand new and pre-loved goodies. Three Tarot Readers will be availbale on the day. For more information call Sue Cooper 0411 790 624.

HOME-START FAMILY SERVICES

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

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 Tuesday of the month at Club Lambton, Karoola Rd. No RSVP needed.

For more information email: lambtonresidents@ gmail.com or call Angela on 0422 633 737.

Readers are encouraged to check with organisers that events/meetings are proceeding as advertised here. Public Health Orders may force events to be postponed or cancelled. To have a free community notice published in next month’s issue of The Local email your details to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

Local Community Group Notices

COMMUNITY GROUPS

HUNTER PROSTATE CANCER AWARENESS AND SUPPORT GROUP

Hunter Prostate Cancer Awareness and Support Group (HPSASG) are a volunteer group who help and support men and their families experiencing prostate cancer health issues. We offer a confidential, friendly and supportive atmosphere with guest speakers from medical and other topical backgrounds. The group meet every second Tuesday of the month, at 2pm at Wallsend Diggers, 5 Tyrell Street Wallsend. Please come along and stay for a drink and a chat afterwards if you wish. Many do. We look forward to seeing you at our next meeting. Please call Chairperson, Brendon on 0458 960 300 for further information.

HOBBIES & INTERESTS

NEWCASTLE & LAKE MACQUARIE ART SOCIETY

Announcing the annual Newcastle and Lake Macquarie Art Society Art Exhibition will be held at Belmont City Centre - 45/41 Macquarie St, Belmont from 24 October until 6 November. Opening hours are Monday to Friday 9 am5:30 pm, Saturdays 9am - 5pm and Sundays 9am - 4pm. This is an exhibition of works by local members of the Society all of which are original oils, watercolour, acrylic, pencil, pastel and mixed media paintings. Come and have a browse.

SOCIAL 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.

HOBBIES & INTERESTS

HUNTER REGION FIELD NATURALISTS & NATURE JOURNALING CLUB

A local club started in Lambton almost two years ago offers free outdoor nature journaling sessions to anyone interested in trying their hand at drawing and painting whilst exploring nature. The club meet outdoors on the 4th Saturday of each month and offer online sessions on the 2nd Saturday of each month. Find out more on Instagram and Facebook: @naturejournalclub. hunterregion

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 0404496262

ST VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY

St Vincent De Paul has volunteer member roles right across the greater Newcastle region. In the last two years Vinnies has supported over 2000 households in the region and needs members to continue the good works of St Vincent de Paul which was established in 1833 by Parisian University students as a way to assist the poor. As a member you could be involved with home visitation, pastoral support, providing emergency welfare relief, mentoring Mini Vinnies, social advocacy, basic administration and fundraising just to name a few of our activities. If you are able to spare some time on a regular basis or would like to learn more, contact Sarah Kemp by phone on 0490 255 100 or by email at sarah. kemp@vinnies.org.au

Readers are encouraged to check with organisers that events/meetings are proceeding as advertised here. Public Health Orders may force events to be postponed or cancelled. To have a free community notice published in next month’s issue of The Local email your details to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

Local Community Group Notices

SENIORS GROUPS

WARATAH COMBINED PROBUS CLUB

This is an invitation to join Waratah Combined Probus Club, where fun, friendship and fellowship are important. For further information please phone Robert Budden president on 4967 2290

MIDDAY MOVERS

Low intensity workout with low impact aerobics, easy to follow dance steps, chair drumming, balance and stretching. This class is for older adults, beginners and anyone that wants a fun low impact workout. Classes are held at Jesmond Park Uniting Church every Tuesday 12pm to 12.45pm. Cost per class is $10 and can be paid with cash or card

HUNTER VIEW CLUB

“Voice, Interests and Education of Women” in conjunction with the Smith Family we support Learning for Life Students, of disadvantaged Australian Children to create a better future. We meet at 10am on the 4th Wednesday of every month at Club Charlestown, 5 Lincoln St, Charlestown. We would like to extend an invitation to ladies to come along to listen to interesting guest speakers, enjoy morning tea, lunch and social activities. Contact Suzanne 0417 230 149.

PILATES FOR SENIORS

Improve your balance, your core strength and your mobility with pilates. A weekly chair-based Pilates class for Seniors is held at the Jesmond Park Uniting Church Hall at 15 Robert Street Jesmond at 11am on Thursdays. The class is approved by NSW Health as a Falls Prevention Program. Cost per class $12. For more information contact Jen Shaddock at STABLE Pilates on 0432 655 013 or visit www.chairpilates.com.au

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 Central Charlestown Leagues Club. 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.

NEWCASTLE LADIES PROBUS

Newcastle Ladies Probus meets on the first Wednesday of the month at 10.30 at Wests in Newcastle. We are a friendly group and we welcome new members. We have interesting guest speakers at our monthly meetings and other social activities which include coffee mornings, lunches, a walking group, visits to places such as museums, Maitland Art Gallery. For more information contact Margaret 0417 663 064 or Sandra 0438 622 608.

BEL AIR VIEW CLUB

Bel Air View Club meets on the third Monday of each month at South Leagues Club 46 Llewellyn St 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 Australians experiencing disadvantage to create a better future for themselves through education. For further information please phone Gillian on 49635655 or email gillian.cranston@bigpond.com

Readers are encouraged to check with organisers that events/meetings are proceeding as advertised here. Public Health Orders may force events to be postponed or cancelled. To have a free community notice published in next month’s issue of The Local email your details to admin@ hunterlocal.com.au or post to PO Box 130, Lambton 2299 by 15th of the month. Notices may be edited or omitted due to space limitations.

Local Classifieds...

SALE

CHILDRENS TOYS

Kids slippery dip and ride on bike. $60 o.n.o for both. Ph 0412 643 852

COFFEE TABLE

New 900mm x 900mm hand crafted locally sourced and made, solid timber, satin finish. Price $350 negotiable.Ph 0423 050 778

GOLF CLUBS

3 woods, 8 irons, sand wedge and putter. Also includes bag, balls, tees, and towel. All for only $110 Ph 4957 4757

GUITAR

Yamaha grand concert guitar FG-630, 12 steel strings, 41cm, Japanese Guitar Vintage, made in 1970, by Nippon Gakki Co Ltd Rare find, hard to come by. Price $1150negotiable.Ph 0423 050 778

MOBILITY WALKER

Mobility walker in good condition $30 Ph 0488 012 394

MODEL RAILWAY

‘N’ gauge, complete model railway, 4 foot long x 2 foot 5 inches wide. Includes rolling stock, locos, passenger & freight wagons, layout, town, ranch, livestock Ph 0401 277 613

THEATRE TICKETS

Tickets for Moulin Rouge The Musical 12/10/22, Jersey Boys 15 & 22/10/22 for sale Ph 4952 8590

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

They’re free and they work! Post the coupon on the facing page or email admin@hunterlocal.com.au by 15th of month.

FREE

ITEMS

Large bag on wheels with retractable handle, may suit use as a summer (cricket) sports bag. Portable charcoal BBQ, suit 2/3 people, only used once. Collect from New Lambton. Please contact Graham Ph 4952 4585

Gentle Flow Yoga

Saturday sessions available 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.

Begin yoga with others starting out in our new classes and feel 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)

Solution to crossword on page 28

NOTICES

Offering audio cassette & VHS video tapes and 35mm slide converting to USB sticks, hard drives, CDs or DVDs. No job is too small. Lower prices for large orders. Enquire for other media types Ph 4952 2352

CLEANER

My name is Carol-Anne. I’m a hard working and reliable cleaner with references and I’m looking for work in your area. $35.00 p/h Ph 0403 340 592

COMPANION WANTED

Mature lady (prefer 60+) to be a companion one day per week to a 60+ female. Please list hobbies. $153 /day. Contact by email to: rockorchid@gmail.com

DECLUTTERING

Do you need help with decluttering, cleaning, organising, getting your house ready for sale, or just feeling fresh for Spring? Call Jennifer $30 per hour.

Ph 0415 389 811

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

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BRAITH’S VIDEO TAPE & MEDIA DIGITISATION SERVICES

Local Classifieds...

NOTICES

EDITING & WRITING INSTRUCTION

Editing services and academic writing instruction for students of BA, & Post-Graduate Studies, including PhD level, in a wide variety of disciplines. Tuition via zoom & Google docs. Fees from $60 per hour. Contact Chris by email chrisausspeak@gmail.com or text to 0416 624 710

PEST CONTROL Guaranteed. Average home $150, units and town houses $80, Lake Macquarie, Newcastle and Hunter Valley areas. German Cockroaches a specialty. Ph 0418 637 990

NOTICES

VAN FOR HIRE

Cheap rates from $25 including driver. Furniture removal/ delivery. Cleanups or any other purpose. Available 7 days a week. Free quotes Turtle Couriers Ph 0473 425 472

WEDDING & FUNCTIONS ENTERTAINMENT

Jake Jon King is a local Established solo musician who is well suited for weddings, pub gigs as well as any outdoor events. He knows many hit songs from the past 70 years plus many traditional wedding songs. Email jakejonking@gmail.com or Ph 0410 308 523RESUME WRITER

Resume writing service for all types and levels of job applications. Over 15 years’ experience. Contact Tonia by email tonia.weaver@optusnet. com.au or text to 0434 073 033

LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

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LOCAL CLASSIFIEDS

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The Local, your free monthly letterbox delivered newspaper, requires reliable, energetic locals who love walking to join the team that ensure our community news gets into more than 11,000 letterboxes each month. You must be available to do the deliveries around the end of each month (usually 28th-2nd). Two to four hours of walking is involved each month. Good rates paid per 100 letterboxes. All ages are welcome to apply.

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Complete this form and post it to: ‘Local Classifieds’ PO Box 130, Lambton 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 classifieds advertising please email admin@ hunterlocal.com.au