Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens and Hunter Valley | INTOUCH MAGAZINE SEP 23' ISSUE

IS SU E # 9 1 | S E P T E M B E R 20 23

NEWCASTLE • LAKE MACQUARIE • HUNTER VALLEY • PORT STEPHENS

Be Yourself & Chase Your Dreams

Billy Elliot

Sneak Peek

+ Hunter Valley Wine Country Special Feature + Spring into our Spring School Holidays Guide

HARRIGAN’S CAMERON PARK

LIFESTYLE > ENTERTAINMENT > DINING > COMMUNITY > TRAVEL > FAMILY > HEALTH > HOME > PROPERTY

On Monday 25th September we celebrate our

3rd Birthday!

Join us for a fun-filled day of celebrating & activities including:

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FREE Gifts on arrival for Kids

FREE Koala Informational Talks provided by

FREE Guided tours throughout the day

Port Stephens Koala Hospital

Cutting of the Official Birthday Cake

AND MUCH MUCH MORE!!!

Adopt a Koala today.

Scan the QR Code and know that your contribution helps us care for and protect koalas so they can stay wild.

Contact us:

02 4988 0800

Connect portstephenskoalasanctuary.com.au With Us

562 Gan Gan Road, One Mile, 2316

Count Us In 2023 4-24 September 2023 60+ events that help all Novocastrians better understand access and inclusion.

Arts, Sports, Business, Training & Connection

Inclusion is everyone’s business

newcastle.nsw.gov.au/countusin 3

FROM THE

EDITORS...

Welcome to our first issue of Spring! With a fresh new look, we’re celebrating longer and warmer days with a collection of stories that encapsulate the essence of Spring in the Hunter.

Dance into the Spotlight - Our cover story takes you behind the curtains of Billy Elliot, a heartwarming tale of determination and self-discovery. Featuring the iconic music of Elton John, it will make you laugh and cry! It’s one of the world’s most popular theatrical productions - read more on page 14.

Healing Hearts, One Paw at a Time - Delve into the heartwarming world of Port Stephens Koala Hospital, where the dedicated team work tirelessly to rehabilitate and protect these iconic Australian creatures. Be touched by their unwavering commitment and the tales of resilience that emerge from the furry inhabitants and get along to their 3rd Birthday celebrations this month. Read more on page 46.

A Kaleidoscope of Entertainment - Spring is synonymous with a plethora of shows and events, and we've curated a guide to the best in local entertainment. From the jaw-dropping acrobatics of Blanc de Blanc to the inclusive rhythms of the Count Us In Festival and the enchantment of Sleeping Beauty, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this issue.

Embrace the Community Spirit - Discover the pulse of our community through events at the Civic Theatre, where art, music, and culture intertwine to create moments that resonate. From the energetic beats of the *New Annual* festival to thought-provoking performances, there's no shortage of inspiration this month.

Hunter Valley Wine Country Unveiled - Journey with us through the picturesque landscapes of the Hunter Valley, where we uncork the stories behind its world-renowned wineries and share just a few secrets about this local gem.

Navigating School Holidays - For frazzled parents seeking exciting activities during the school break, our comprehensive guide ensures that boredom remains a distant memory. With an array of family-friendly events, you're guaranteed a memorable break.

As the colours of Spring paint our surroundings with vibrancy, let this issue be your guide to exploring the season's treasures.

Enjoy!

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PAGE 46

Contents

ISSUE #91 | SEPTEMBER 2023 12 14 18 23 25 29 32 36 43 46 48 51 58

Internationally Acclaimed Royal Czech Ballet Returns Be Yourself & Chase Your Dreams | Billy Elliot Opening Date Set for Harrigan's Cameron Park Inclusion is Everyone's Business at Count Us In Festival Dancing on The Tables at Blanc de Blanc Encore Calling Local Creatives to Take Centre Stage!

A Backyard Full of Wine & Food Experiences Small Mouth Vodka | The Willy Wonkas of Spirits!

Hunter Young Business Mind Awards Hospital Sanctuary for our Precious Koalas On Tour with the Kid | Brutal Reality School Holidays Guide | Spring 2023 Jetmaster Newcastle | Where Tradition Meets Elegance

REGULARS 6 31 43 56 57 61

What's On in September Eat. Drink. Travel.

Family & Community Horoscopes Hunter Homes & Lifestyle Trades & Services Directory

ON THE COVER

Publisher Two Tribes Media Address 297 Brunker Road, Adamstown, NSW 2289 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales 0432 195 942 Editorial Enquiries 0439 496 403 Artwork Enquiries 0406 503 088 © Copyright 2023 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

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Publishers Two Tribes Media

Features Writer Liane Morris

Editorial Content & Advertising Di von Essen Quentin von Essen Meghan Piggott

Contributors Dr Alex Huszti Kim Fairminer Chloe O’Sullivan

Graphic Designer Katrina Reeves

GET MOBILE! View this month’s Issue of intouch Magazine on your phone, tablet or computer.

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT www.intouchmagazine.com.au Facebook intouchmagazines Instagram intouchmagazines

Billy Elliot The Musical will make its Newcastle debut at the magnificent Civic Theatre early next month. A stellar cast has been assembled, including up-and-coming triple threat Fergus Paterson, who graces our cover this month. Read more on page 14. Cover Image: Fergus Paterson as Billy Elliot.

Credit: Peter Stoop Photography.

THANK YOU! THE NEWCASTLE NORTHSTARS WOULD LIKE TO TAKE THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS OUR APPRECIATION AND GRATITUDE TO ALL OUR FANS, VOLUNTEERS, AND SPONSORS WHO HAVE SUPPORTED THE TEAM THROUGHOUT THE 2023 AUSTRALIAN ICE HOCKEY LEAGUE SEASON. YOU’VE MADE THE HUNTER ICE SKATING STADIUM THE LOUDEST ITS EVER BEEN, AND WE’VE LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT! THANK YOU ALL FOR YOUR ONGOING SUPPORT AND WE CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU IN 2024!

MAJOR SPONSOR

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SILVER SPONSORS AMBASSADOR LOCKSMITHS BAKER LOVE LAWYERS BASE BUSINESS ADVISORS CARTERS CLUTCH & BRAKE CLUB MACQUARIE COASTAL RURAL TRADERS DANGAR BODYWORKS DCB DEVELOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION FITNESS PHYSIOTHERAPY GATO J&H COMMERCIAL SERVICES

JET SURVEILLANCE TECHNOLOGIES KONE ELEVATORS NEWCASTLE MBA GROUP TRAINING NIC’S FAMILY DAY CARE PHA PROMOTIONAL SESAMES ON THE LAKE STRENGTH MOBILITY & RECOVERY STARGLASS STEVENSON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC SVPARTNERS VALLEY MOTOR AUCTIONS WESTLAKES TROPHIES

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MJM MURPHY MONIDAV ROOFING & GUTTERING NIC’S FAMILY DAY CARE NEWCASTLE MBA GROUP TRAINING

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WHAT'S ON in September WE MAKE EVERY EFFORT POSSIBLE TO BE CORRECT, HOWEVER EVENTS DO CHANGE. PLEASE CHECK INDIVIDUAL EVENTS ONLINE BEFORE PLANNING.

stories, audience members will meet many lovable characters while enjoying delightful songs that will have them up bopping along. The show will inspire all ages to find inspiration in the world around them to create wonderful stories of their own. The production will run until Sat 9 September. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.ypt.org.au

and treat him to a great meal, live music, and drink specials all day. For more info or to book a table, visit www.bartholomews.com.au

SATURDAY 2 SEPTEMBER

Rory Pollock, Luke Aspinall and Katie Blaxland.

Credit Joerg Lehmann.

▼ Bjorn Again at Civic Theatre Newcastle.

Bjorn Again are returning to play ABBA’s biggest hits to audiences with a highly entertaining concert that is sure to be actionpacked! Regarded as the most successful tribute show and being personally endorsed by the members of ABBA shows, you will be sure to have the time of your life. Dust off your flares, platform shoes, and satin, and get ready to enjoy the ABBA-SOLUTE fun! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER ▲ One Man, Two Guvnors at Newcastle Theatre Company. NTC presents One Man, Two Guvnors, adapted from Carlo Goldoni’s ‘The Servant of Two Masters’. This fastpaced production will be nothing short of entertaining as it follows Francis Henshall and his life when he gets tangled working for two “guvnors” that can’t find out about each other. Chaos ensures with murder, love, and of course, lots of humour. Be sure to secure your tickets, you don’t want to miss this! The final 2 performances will be on Fri 1 and Sat 2 Sept.

For more info or to book tickets, visit www. newcastletheatrecompany.com.au ■ A Pocketful of Stories at Young People’s Theatre Newcastle. Young People’s Theatre presents A Pocketful of Stories, a production that showcases how an author and their ideas weave into six imaginative tales. Through the

SUNDAY 3 SEPTEMBER ■ Father’s Day at Bartholomew’s. What better way to celebrate the father figures in your life than with a 2-course meal and drink package for just $42? Take your dad to Bartholomew’s

For the spirit and cocktail enthusiasts who are looking to try something new! Sample the best of our new spirit selection and find your favourite flavour. This guided tasting

• WHAT'S ON

MONDAY 4 SEPTEMBER ▲ Morgan Evans at Civic Theatre Newcastle Morgan Evans is returning home this month to bring the songs of his latest EP Life Upside Down to the stage. With a fresh outlook, Morgan is resetting himself personally and musically with his home-soil shows that have fans eagerly awaiting his return. He couldn’t miss his hometown of Newcastle on the tour, so with three nights (Mon 4, Tues 5 and Sat 9 Sept) to choose from local fans are spoilt because you don’t want to miss this concert!

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

WEDNESDAY 6 SEPTEMBER Bjorn Again, at Adelaide Festival Centre Source: Facebook

DISTILLER'S FLIGHT SPIRIT & COCKTAIL EXPERIENCE AT MCGUIGAN WINES

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Morgan Evans. Source: Civic Theatre

■ Jerry’s Girls at Civic Playhouse. Metropolitan Players presents Jerry’s Girls, a musical full of glamour to celebrate the music and lyrics of Jerry Herman. Women are centre stage in this musical as Jerry Herman has always put the ‘larger than life’ women in the foreground, such as Dolly Gallagher Levi of Hello Dolly or Countess Aurelia of Dear World. This show

includes pours of gin, vodka, liquor creams, espresso, cosmo's and more, this is a not to be missed flavour experience!

Cost: $15 pre-paid reservations for parties of 1 – 20 people.

Visit www.mcguiganwines.com.au and click on Visit Us to book.

encapsulates Jerry’s gift of showcasing the true spirit of musical theatre. The wonderful female cast will keep you entertained with classic songs you know and love. You don’t want to miss this, be sure to get your tickets! Shows will run from Wed 6 to Sat 16 September. For more info or to book tickets, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au ■ Sleeping Beauty at Civic Theatre Newcastle The Royal Czech Ballet is returning to Australia to present the classic masterpiece, Sleeping Beauty. Follow the story of Princess Aurora as the ballerinas command the stage and capture the audience's amazement. After the success of The Royal Czech Ballet’s performance of Swan Lake last year, it is sure to be a wonderful evening! There will also be another show on Sunday, 29 October.

For more info or to book tickets, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER ▲ Newcastle Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree at Signal Box. Get your friends together for a night of wining and dining with women who love wine! You’ll get the chance to meet Louise Hemsley-Smith and learn about her portfolio from Bosworth Wines while enjoying a five-course dinner. Support women in the wine industry and don’t miss Newcastle’s first Fabulous Ladies Wine Soiree! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. fabulouswinesociety.com

SATURDAY 9 SEPTEMBER ■ Cher and Kenny Rogers Tribute Show at Weston Workers Club. Big Guns Entertainment presents the Cher and Kenny

Rogers Tribute Show! In this unique show, Australian Idol Finalist Ashleigh Toole turns back time, performing the hits of Cher and Linda Ronstadt, with Graham Toole singing the hits of Kenny Rogers and Glen Campbell.

Watch as the two pay tribute to music legends and relive the magic with a live band taking you on a journey to a past era of music. It’s sure to be a show for all music fans! For more information or to book tickets, visit www. eventbrite.com

▲ Wedding Fair at Hunter Valley Gardens Discover three iconic Hunter Valley wedding venues in one day! Hunter Valley Gardens, Mercure Resort and Harrigan’s will present a wedding fair that showcases a total of seven ceremony locations, six reception venues and countless photography options.

Throughout the day there will also be an extensive selection of wedding suppliers with lots of options to help when planning your special day. It's sure to be a day to remember!

For more info or to book tickets, visit www. huntervalleygardens.com.au

FRIDAY 15 SEPTEMBER ■ Newy Rave Cave at Kahibah Sports Club.

Newy Rave Cave presents Newcastle’s best DJs, all in one night! Inspired by the music scene in Newcastle, this event will take you through different music genres of club remixes, bass house, drum n bass, and techno.

The DJs of the night are JUDDY, DJ Sonic, and DJ Josh Blair. Be sure to book your tickets and get ready to rave! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.moshtix.com.au

FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER Elestial Hamilton Station Hotel SATURDAY 2 SEPTEMBER Midland Bar on the Hill The McCredie Brothers The Base MONDAY 4 SEPTEMBER Temple of the Stag The Stag & Hunter Newcastle Morgan Evans Civic Theatre THURSDAY 7 SEPTEMBER The Launch Pad Wickham Park Hotel FRIDAY 8 SEPTEMBER Amy Vee Adamstown Bowling Club Full Throttle Club Charlestown SATURDAY 9 SEPTEMBER G Flip Bar on the Hill SUNDAY 10 SEPTEMBER Chloe Gill The Hamilton Station Hotel Glen Harrison Club Lambton WEDNESDAY 13 SEPTEMBER Polaris Bar on the Hill FRIDAY 15 SEPTEMBER Newy Rave Cave Kahibah Sports Club Magic Dirt King Street Wayward Kings The Wickham Park Hotel FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER Afro-Barbie Queens Wharf Hotel Slowly Slowly King Street The Bloods The Newcastle Hotel SATURDAY 23 SEPTEMBER Leah Senior The Stag & Hunter Hotel The Whitlams Toronto Hotel SUNDAY 24 SEPTEMBER Zane Penn Club Lambton FRIDAY 29 SEPTEMBER JUMP Club Charlestown SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER The Rions King Street

Continued next page ▶ WHAT'S ON •

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WHAT'S ON in September (Continued)

snacks and drinks available for purchase from 10.30am the kids will be entertained while waiting for The Quokkas to begin at 11.30am.

Performing for 45 minutes, it’ll be a fun-filled concert for all! Following the show, all are invited to take photos with The Quokkas. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. eventbrite.com.au ■ Jimmy Rees at Civic Theatre Newcastle After spending a decade as the face of Giggle & Hoot, Jimmy Rees furthered his success during the COVID years with quick-witted comedy sketches across social media that reached all ages of people! Now Jimmy Rees is set to entertain the nation with a show full of laughs, fun, and relatability. For more information or to book tickets, visit www. civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

class of 1985 as they experience the fun and heartbreak of a different decade. Told through the eyes of thirty-something Corey Palmer, he reflects back to the 80s and his senior class of William Ocean High School. Be sure to secure your tickets; you don't want to miss this!

Shows will run from Wed 20 to Sat 23 Sept.

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.chookasentertainment.com

WEDNESDAY 20 SEPTEMBER SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER ▲ Urban Cocktail Trail at Multiple Venues Celebrate the art, craftmanship and fun of cocktails with your friends at the Urban Cocktail Trail! Start with some food at your chosen starting location before moving around the trail to redeem cocktail vouchers for your favourite signature cocktails. With numerous iconic Newcastle venues on the trail, this self-guided experience will be a great event for all! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com

SUNDAY 17 SEPTEMBER ▶ Creative Kids Concert Featuring the Quokkas at The Conservatorium of Music Get your kids ready to sing, dance and shake their sillies out at the Creative Kids Concert!

With free face painting in the foyer, and

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• WHAT'S ON

▶ Back to the 80’s at Warners Bay Theatre.

Chookas Entertainment invites you to join the Source: Newcastle Fringe Festival/The Quokkas

FRIDAY 22 SEPTEMBER ■ Good Mourning at The Playhouse. Tantrum Youth Arts presents Good Mourning, the true story of four siblings and how they deal with their dad’s cancer diagnosis. While the family embark on a Farewell Tour to build memories together, the show explores the complexities of loss and grief from the perspective of an eight-year-old child. Audiences will be reminded that although death is scary, life is a celebration – be sure to get your tickets!

Please be aware of content warnings and it is suitable for ages 12+. There will be a second

show on Sat 23 Sept. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.tantrum.org.au ■ Kaleidoscope: Keith Courtney at Civic Park.

Enjoy a mesmerising symphony of light and sound in a mirror maze designed to look like a kaleidoscope. The pop-up venue will provide a shifting illusion with different experiences depending on whether a day or night session is booked. Kaleidoscope by Keith Courtney is a space to explore and dream through a colour field of ever-changing light. Step into the giant version of the childhood toy and experience it for yourself! The installation will run from Fri 22 Sept to Sun 22 October, as part of Newcastle's New Annual festival.

For more info or to book tickets, visit www. kaleidoscopebykeithcourtney.com

is the 9th chapter of Dashville Skyline, an amazing long weekend (Thurs 28 Sept to Sun 1 Oct) experience for laid back music lovers and families looking for great music and cultural camping experience. With over 40 live performances, food options, market stalls, history exhibit, petting zoo, show and shine, and more on offer, there is something for everyone. For more information or to book tickets, visit www.dashville.com.au

SEPTEMBER MARKET GUIDE EVERY SATURDAY IN SEPTEMBER ■ Glendale Farmers & Artisans Market at Stockland Glendale, 8am–2pm

EVERY SUNDAY IN SEPTEMBER ■ Lions Club of Adamstown Market, Cnr of Brunker and Glebe Rd, Adamstown, 6:30am–12pm

EVERY SUNDAY IN SEPTEMBER ■ Newcastle Farmers Markets at Newcastle Showground, 7am–1pm

SATURDAY 2 SEPTEMBER

Source: Dashville

■ Morisset Showground Markets, at 40 Ourimbah Street, Morisset from 7:30am–1pm

SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMBER

SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER

THURSDAY 28 SEPTEMBER ▲ Dashville Skyline at Lower Belford. Brewing in the depths of the Hunter Valley country

▲ Global Gathering at Newcastle Museum Park. Enjoy a vibrant celebration of diverse traditions, food, expressions, and art forms as you connect with the community. Experience the city in a new light as the event celebrates the different people that call Newcastle home.

As part of the event, Dancenorth’s NOISE will also be showcased at 6.30pm and 8pm. Being a free event, it’s the perfect opportunity for a fun afternoon out with the family. For more information, visit www.newannual.com

■ Warners Bay Markets at Warners Bay Foreshore, 9am–2pm

Stay Up to Date with What's On! Visit our website to view weekly updates on events in the Hunter region.

Next Market: 16 September

Warners Bay Markets Handmade Items • Gifts • Entertainment • Food Trucks • Coffee • Beautiful Views WHAT'S ON •

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Daniel Gould Source: The Wall Station

GLENDALE FARMERS & ARTISANS MARKET

EASEL’D

> SATURDAY 2, 9. 16, 23 & 30 SEPTEMBER AT STOCKLAND GLENDALE Glendale Farmers & Artisan Market is held under the Big White Top at Stockland Glendale on every Saturday. When you go to the Glendale Farmers & Artisan Market at Stockland Glendale you have a unique opportunity to interact directly with our farmers, producers, and artisans. Where else can you buy groceries direct from the farmer – from the person who grew, nurtured, and made the product? At the weekly farmers market, you not only get to meet the maker and the farmer, but you can also ask about how and where it’s grown or made, and how best to store or use it. It’s an experience that cannot be replicated in the usual supermarkets. Plan a visit to your local Glendale Farmers and Artisans Market this month! For more information, visit www.glendalecityfarmersmarket.com.au or visit their Facebook page.

> FRIDAY 1 SEPTEMBER – SUNDAY 1 OCTOBER AT NEWCASTLE From the West End to Newcastle Beach, EASEL’D is a month-long painting event in September with 100 artists taking to the streets of Newcastle’s CBD, bringing broad brushstrokes of brilliance to portable walls, businesses and outdoor spaces. Presented by The Wall Station and supported by the City of Newcastle’s Special Business Rate Grant Funding, EASEL’D features 40 curated artists at live painting events and artist residencies, and over 60 community and amateur artists participating in free outdoor painting workshops. All EASEL’D events are free. EASEL’D is an opportunity for everyone to meet artists, watch them work, explore artist residency walking trails, listen to the podcast series

by Delia Bell and attend free art workshops in the city. For more information or to view the program, visit www.thewallstation.com

GRACE UNDER PRESSURE > WED 13 – SAT 16 SEPT AT NEWCASTLE THEATRE COMPANY Newcastle Theatre Company presents Grace Under Pressure, a confronting, hopeful, and moving theatre piece about the workplace and training cultures that are making young health professionals unwell, and therefore putting their patients at risk.

END 2 END FESTIVAL > SATURDAY 16 SEPTEMEBER AT POKOLBIN Featuring 3 venues, 15 wineries, gourmet food, live music, celebrity chefs, boutique beer and more, the End2End Festival is an event not to miss! Hop on and off the shuttle bus at either Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort, Ben Ean and Drayton’s Family Wines to relax with

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• WHAT'S ON | HIGHLIGHTS

The production was created by David Williams and Paul Dwyer (in collaboration with the Sydney Arts and Health Collective) conducting interviews with doctors and nurses from different departments in different stages of their careers. Gain insight into the medical culture and learn about the illuminating taboo issues through what is sure to be an amazing production! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.newcastletheatrecompany.com.au

a glass (or bottle) of wine while listening to the live music and enjoying fantastic food.

Live entertainment includes Simply Divinyls, Damnation, Rock Rhapsody, Komiti Levai Band, Edge of Seventeen tribute to Fleetwood Mac, and GENR8 so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Enjoy the sensory journey through the stunning locations while indulging your senses and tickling your tastebuds! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.end2endfestival.com.au

Source: Her Productions

LOW LEVEL PANIC > WED 27 SEPTEMBER – SAT 7 OCTOBER AT CATAPULT CHOREOGRAPHIC HUB

WEST WALK > SATURDAY 23 SEPTEMBER AT VARIOUS NEWCASTLE WEST ART GALLERIES West Walk will be Newcastle West's first-ever art walk, providing an immersive and entertaining evening for all attendees. The leading contemporary independent art galleries are collaborating to ensure an unforgettable journey with live music, incredible art, dinner, and local beverages. It is sure to be a great evening! For more information, visit www.newannual.com

Experience HER Productions' thought-provoking play, "LOW LEVEL PANIC," a captivating exploration of female existence by Clare McIntyre. Following the success of "Uncle Vanya," this highly anticipated production delves into the lives of three intricate female characters in the intimate space of a shared bathroom.

Against the backdrop of a hypersexualized, male-dominated world, the play offers a raw and surprisingly humorous look into the challenges faced by women. CoArtistic Director Charlotte De Wit reflects, "Although the play premiered in 1988, its themes remain profoundly relevant." HER Productions, founded by Charlotte De Wit and Marigold Pazar, seeks to ignite conversations, and create lasting impacts.

Directed by Maike Strichow and featuring Marigold Pazar, Charlotte De Wit, and Megan Kennedy, the emotionally charged play delves into identity, friendships, and societal expectations, containing adult content for audiences aged 18 and above.

For more information or to book tickets, visit www.herproductions.com.au

OKTOBERFEST IN THE GARDENS > SATURDAY 30 SEPTEMBER AT THE STATION Oktoberfest in the Gardens is coming to Newcastle with more entertainment, music, food, and of course beer than ever before! Collaborating with the usual Oktoberfest Newcastle team, this event will merge experiences to create the ultimate

celebration. Bringing the best bits of Germany combined with a carnival atmosphere, there will be plenty of entertainment for guests, including DJ’s, roving performers, sideshow alley, live entertainment, a silent disco, and much more.

Dress up in Lederhosen or Dirndl and enjoy a day in the sun experiencing the best German food and drinks with your friends. Book your tickets, plan your outfit, and get ready to raise your steins! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.oktoberfestinthegardens.com.au

As Fresh As It Gets The Commercial Fishermen’s Co-Operative supplies local caught fresh seafood daily through our retail outlets at Wickham, Swansea, and Tacoma.

We have receival Depots at Wickham, Bungwahl, Tea Gardens, Nelson Bay, Swansea and Tacoma.

Visit our website for Recipes and our fresh Seafood Catalogue.

Wickham ◆ Swansea ◆ Tacoma | www.fishcoop.com.au | Follow us on WHAT'S ON | HIGHLIGHTS •

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Cristina Terentiev

READ ONLINE

Internationally Acclaimed Royal Czech Ballet Returns The Royal Czech Ballet was formed in the Czech Republic in 2008 by its Artistic Director,

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Andrey Scharaev. The beginning of the company was not an easy one, as it required significant investment to implement Andrey’s plans, but by organising gala concerts and festivals, all proceeds were invested back into costumes and scenery for future performances.

Fast forward 25 years, and the company has gained international acclaim with their performances of traditional classical ballets, including Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, Sleeping Beauty, Don Quixote and Giselle.

Following their 2022 performances of Swan Lake, the Royal Czech Ballet returns to Australia this month to present the classic masterpiece Sleeping Beauty, including two shows in Newcastle – 6 September and 29 October.

Sleeping Beauty follows the story of Princess Aurora. When the King does not invite the bad fairy Carabosse to the Princess's christening, she casts a spell on the Princess that will mean she will die if pricked by a needle from the age of 16. The King tries to protect his daughter by banning all needles in the Kingdom, however, Princess Aurora accidentally pricks her finger on her sixteenth birthday. One hundred years later, a handsome prince stumbles upon the Sleeping Beauty Princess Aurora, where she is awoken from her sleep and witchcraft is defeated.

Natalia Kusch

The Royal Czech Ballet’s performances of Swan Lake in 2022 were acclaimed by theatregoers and critics alike and will feature international soloist Cristina Terentiev, sharing the role with Natalia Kusch.

Cristina has been described by Bill Stephens OAM (Australian Arts Review) as a “superb ballerina – thrillingly virtuosic,” who commands the stage.

Natalia was born in Nikopol, Ukraine and began her dance career in 1990 at the Opera and Ballet Theatre in Ukraine before moving to Vienna to study classical ballet. From 2005, Natalia was a soloist with the Vienna State Ballet before moving to Australia to work as a principal dancer with the Queensland Ballet.

Visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au for tickets.

©2014 Billy London Ltd.

THE VERY POPULAR THEATRE COMPANY PRODUCTION OF

NEWCASTLE PREMIERE 3 WEEKS ONLY FROM OCTOBER 7

BOOK NOW through civictheatrenewcastle.com.au Licenced exclusively by Music Theatre International (Australasia)

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BE YOURSELF & CHASE YOUR DREAMS

Billy Elliot READ ONLINE

WORDS LIANE MORRIS | FEATURES WRITER IMAGES PETER STOOP PHOTOGRAPHY It’s inspirational, electrifying and uplifting. It’s about making your dreams come true, even in the face of the greatest obstacles. It will make you laugh, and it will make you cry, and it’s one of the world’s most popular theatrical productions. Billy Elliot the Musical hits the Civic Theatre stage this October for the very first time. Featuring the iconic music of Elton John, more than 12 million people across five different continents have fallen in love with this masterpiece. Bring the whole family – ballet shoes and tutus are optional!

Billy Elliot The Musical was a West End and Broadway phenomenon, charming audiences and critics alike, with the New York Post 14

Lewis Nicholson as Billy Elliot.

declaring it “THE BEST SHOW YOU WILL EVER SEE!”. It’s a coming-of-age story of Billy, a motherless boy who begins taking ballet lessons only to discover an entirely new world awaiting him.

Set in a northern English town during the miners’ strike of 1984/5, the show follows Billy’s journey from boxing ring to ballet class, where he uncovers a passion for dance which unites his family, inspires his community and changes his life forever. Created by the awardwinning team behind the smash hit film, it is an extraordinary theatrical experience.

Billy Elliot The Musical will make its Newcastle debut at the magnificent Civic Theatre on 7 October, brought to town by the producers of 2022’s musical theatre event of the year, Jersey Boys. The Very Popular Theatre

Company is one of only four companies granted a licence to stage this show outside of an Australian capital city.

Executive and Artistic Director of The Very Popular Theatre Company, Daniel Stoddart, believes that Newcastle is the perfect location to stage the production.

“Newcastle, Australia, has a rich history rooted in its working-class heritage, making it a fitting backdrop for the themes portrayed in Billy Elliot the Musical,” said Daniel. “Like the fictional town of County Durham depicted in the production, Newcastle was a hub of industrial activity, particularly in coal mining and our BHP steelworks. The struggles, dreams, and aspirations of the working-class community depicted in the musical parallel those of us who grew up here in Newcastle.

L to R: Imogen Mejia, Ruby Wooster, Lucy Hendersen, Ivy Wilson and Layla Klinkenberg.

“The fierce sense of community and resilience among the working-class residents of Newcastle more than mirrors the story of Billy Elliot. Both the musical and the city celebrate the values of hard work, determination, and the pursuit of dreams despite challenging circumstances. The characters' experiences resonate with Newcastle, which now, as a city, needs to adapt to a changing world.”

Billy Elliot the Musical is directed by Anna Kerrigan, Artistic Director of Aspire and children’s theatre specialist who has worked with Australian Theatre for Young People, Barking Gecko Youth Theatre Company, Tantrum Theatre Company, and many others.

“I was attracted to Billy Elliot the Musical because it’s a beautiful story,” said Anna.

“I’m not a big fan of musicals in general, but this one feels more like a play with songs, and every song develops the story. It’s also great to be working with adults again, as most of my work is with children, although I always say that

"IT’S INSPIRATIONAL, ELECTRIFYING AND UPLIFTING. IT’S ABOUT MAKING YOUR DREAMS COME TRUE, EVEN IN THE FACE OF THE GREATEST OBSTACLES."

kids are the best collaborators because they’re unpretentious, honest and direct.

“I’m in awe of The Very Popular Theatre Company. The standard is extremely high quality. It’s a testament to their great reputation that they managed to get the rights to produce the show. There are stringent guidelines around this production, particularly when it comes to the choreography.”

Anna’s directing style is one of collaboration between performers and other creatives.

“I don’t always tell actors what to do,” said Anna.

“I like to see what each actor brings. I set the stage and let them move, they inform how the scene looks, and then I shape it. You know, there are 12 ballet girls on the stage, and frankly, they are the subject matter experts in this story. Everything we do has to serve the story, lighting, sound, set, actors, dancers, everything.

“The story is still very relevant today. Boys are still called names if they do anything

creative. And life is tough for people right now with a cost-of-living crisis, just as it is in this story. It’s a bleak backdrop, but it delivers a marvellous sense of community and support for each other. We want our young people to have a better life than us, and one of my favourite themes of the show is that of men setting aside their long-held beliefs to support a young person's dreams become a reality.

“People should also know that the show differs from the movie – there are songs for a start! There are also extra characters who bring some comic relief, but it is an emotional story, and I advise everyone to bring their tissues. It delivers a beautiful, uplifting message and is a great show to introduce to people who don’t usually go to theatre or musicals. Perfect for families with kids aged ten and over.”

A stellar cast has been assembled, including Australian Musical Theatre leading light, Chloe Dallimore, as the dance teacher, Mrs Wilkinson, starring alongside a host of Newcastle Theatre ▶ 15

luminaries, including Danny Folpp as Dad (Shrek the Musical, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, and Beast in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast), Marty Worrall as George (Company, Airness, Tick, Tick…Boom!) and Felicity Biggins as Grandma (Endgame, Jesus Christ Superstar, Oklahoma!).

Up-and-coming triple threats Lewis Nicholson and Fergus Paterson have been double-cast in the titular role of Billy Elliot, with Conway Oakhill-Saarenpaa and Charlie Murphy playing Billy’s best friend, Michael. Charlie recently starred on the West End as Michael Banks in Mary Poppins.

Showcasing the very best of dance and drama on offer in Newcastle, The Very Popular Theatre Company is collaborating with the National College of Dance to train the four young leads.

The collaboration between The Very Popular Theatre Company and the National College of Dance is extremely rare in the industry and is exciting for everyone involved.

Vicki Morgan, CEO of National College of Dance, believes that the collaboration is a way to show support for boys in dance.

“It’s a lovely story with great connections to Newcastle,” said Vicki.

“It’s a massive show with different styles and levels of dance required. The Billys and Michaels have rehearsed and trained with us since February. Our Artistic Director, Brett Morgan and our Creative Director, Jake Burden, have both been working hard on it, and I suspect that’s because it parallels their own stories.”

“I can relate personally to the Billy Elliot story,” said Brett Morgan.

“As a young boy, I went to an all-boys school in Sydney’s west and out of 1500 students, I was the only boy doing ballet. I had to prove myself - similar to Billy Elliot. I auditioned for the Australian Ballet School, and fortunately, I got in and went on to have a professional career that spanned over 40 years.

“I love working on the show because it is such a feel-good story and because I love passing on knowledge to the young dancers, but possibly the most important thing is to help raise the profile of male dancers and to give confidence to a young man somewhere to help him realise it is possible to have a wonderful life and career being a male dancer.”

The leading role of Billy Elliot is shared between Lewis Nicholson, aged 13 and Fergus Paterson, aged 14. Both boys refer to rehearsals and training at the National College of Dance as “Billy School” and have committed as much as 25 hours per week to learn their craft.

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Lewis Nicholson and Fergus Paterson who share the role of Billy Elliot.

Choreographer Lauren Harvey with The Ballet Girls.

Fergus dreams of becoming Australia’s next Hugh Jackman. “I always loved dancing and singing,” said Fergus.

“And when I saw Hugh Jackman live in 2019, I knew I wanted to be a performer. I go to as many live shows and musicals as I can. I started dancing and drama at about seven and did my first musical at eight years old. I have now done over ten musicals and primarily perform with Gosford Musical Society. I currently dance four days a week and have weekly singing lessons.

For Billy Elliot, we started intensive dance training in February, and from July, we’ve begun full cast rehearsals.

Young Lewis is more ballet focused in his ambitions.

“My life ambition is to be a professional ballet dancer performing with dance companies around the world,” said Lewis.

“I started dance lessons four years ago, doing ballet, jazz and contemporary. In the last couple of years, I have been introduced to more theatre-based productions through my school.

My week is pretty full-on with about 25 hours of rehearsal and dance training time.”

The boys have developed a close relationship during the course of their training and rehearsals.

“Lewis and I have become close during this process; we get along really well and love to share our ideas about developing the character.

It’s a lot of work, so it’s great to have someone always there to talk to,” said Fergus.

Both boys talk about the importance of the show's message and agree that being yourself and chasing your dreams is a core takeaway.

“The heartfelt story is the best bit about the show,” said Lewis.

L to R: Jon Murphy, Marty Worrall, Michael Conry, Danny Folpp, Samuel Brien and Nicholas Langthorne

Fergus Paterson (Billy Elliot) and Danny Folpp (Dad).

“It is also fantastic seeing boys proudly perform and help break down society stereotypes.”

Every member of the cast and creative team has nothing but admiration for the two boys and the hard work that they’ve had to put in to prepare.

Chloe Dallimore, Helpmann Award-winning, well-known star of professional musical theatre productions such as The Producers - The New Mel Brooks Musical, The Addams Family, Gypsy and many others, including the original professional production of Billy Elliot the Musical, where she was the Deputy Associate Choreographer, feels privileged to be involved in this production, taking on the role of Mrs Wilkinson.

“The kids are working so hard; it’s really all about the kids,” said Chloe.

“It’s been inspiring and humbling to be involved. I’ve been so impressed by the extraordinary professional standards; it's next level.”

Chloe’s agent is based in Newcastle and alerted her to the opportunity of being involved in the production.

“I am thrilled to be working on this show.

When I worked on the original production, I helped prepare the entire cast for their dancing.

A large number of kids were involved with eight performances every week, travelling all over Australia. I also did the Korean production.

I’m hoping that my experience in professional theatre inspires the young ones and that I can give back to the future generation of professional performers.”

Chloe’s career has also included a six-year stint as President of the Media Entertainment

Arts Alliance (MEAA), where she was at the forefront of the #metoo movement as it hit the entertainment industry. It made her aware of issues surrounding onstage intimacy, and she now works as an Intimacy Coordinator on television and film sets as well as theatre productions. Her experience in this field has already been put to good use during rehearsals and will no doubt educate the young performers about what is acceptable practice in the industry.

“It’s all about consent and communication,” said Chloe.

“It gives kids agency and stops any potential trauma-inducing activity. Teaching these practices to young performers now will change the face of the industry in years to come.

“Working on this production is a humble reminder of the incredible talent that works in our regional areas. Newcastle (and Adelaide is the other place) are melting pots of amazing performers and shows, and I’m excited to be part of it.”

Newcastle is lucky to have access to such talent and extraordinarily hard-working performers and creatives. Billy Elliot the Musical will play for a strictly limited three-week season at the Civic Theatre from 7 October 2023.

Tickets are available from the Civic Theatre ticket office: www.civictheatrenewcastle.com. au or phone 02 4929 1977.

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READ ONLINE

OPENING DATE SET FOR HARRIGAN’S CAMERON PARK After more than a year under construction and 15 years in planning, Lake Macquarie/ Newcastle’s newest pub, located in the rapidly expanding Cameron Park, will be open to patrons on Saturday, 16 September.

Harrigan’s Cameron Park is owned and operated by Roche Group, well known locally as owners of the famous Hunter Valley Gardens and Harrigan’s Hunter Valley in Pokolbin.

Harrigan’s is a large-scale venue in a contemporary Australian “pub” style with an industrial aesthetic boasting expansive interior spaces, three bars and wide verandahs that bring a new level of sophistication to Newcastle’s flourishing pub scene.

The single-level premises is designed around an impressive central atrium/entry foyer anchoring two long wings, each with high vaulted ceilings to accentuate the feeling of space.

A double-sided fireplace adds warmth and character to the interior, which is dotted with long, easy-access bars replete with multi-tap beer fonts (18 varieties) alongside an extensive selection of wines and spirits, many from local producers.

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The nearly 100-metre-long multi-purpose interior boasts mixed media to the walls and floors with artistic ceramic tiles, recycled timber, metallic surfaces and lush carpet, creating an exciting and comfortable space for patrons to enjoy themselves.

The arrival of Harrigan’s brings to fruition keenly felt local expectations from the rapidly growing community, which has been devoid of a facility such as this until now.

“We are genuinely excited to be bringing this new iconic pub to Cameron Park and are sure the patrons will adopt it as their local… a community pub which will be a place for family and friends to gather and make memories,” said Roche Group Pub Operations Manager Nic Barnett.

“Our menu is focused on providing our patrons with great pub food, highlighting locally sourced produce across our extensive menu.

We have also invested in an Italian pizza oven for authentic wood-fired pizzas and will serve delicious chef-prepared à la carte meals for diners.

Three giant screens are situated in both the Sports and Terrace Bars to provide visitors with

an immersive experience, and full TAB facilities are available inside the premises.

“While enjoying the wide range of beer, wine and spirits, guests can enjoy a full entertainment experience with live music in a designated lounge at the northern end of the building,” said Nic. “We also have an indoor/outdoor children’s play area for the kids, which will include an amazing mural by well-known Newcastle artist Mitch Revs,” he added.

Adjacent to the main bar is a wide alfresco dining area complete with a misting cooling system and a function room for special events facing the water, featuring a grand fireplace as its centrepiece.

“We aim to set a benchmark for customer service in everything we do, and Cameron Park will finally have an amazing place at the heart of the community,” said Nic Barnett.

The multi-million-dollar development is the first new pub in the Newcastle/Lake Macquarie area for over 20 years and boasts state-of-theart facilities throughout.

Access is via McKendry Dr, Cameron Park, and car parking is available within the property's boundaries with additional spaces nearby.

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2023 By

Mich anne Forster Dire ed by

Leanne Mu ler

SEASON 14 - 28 Oct

Wed, Fri, Sat 8.00pm

MATINEES

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Sun 15 Oct & Sat 21 Oct 2.00pm

90 DeVitre St Lambton Bookings: Ph. 4952 4958 or online at newcastletheatrecompany.com.au MID-WEEK SPECIAL: all tickets on Wednesdays $30 Poster design by

RealizedDesign

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September at The Civic September sees not just Spring bloom, but our social calendars are also set to come to life with loads of live performances at the Civic Theatre throughout the month to enjoy. Here’s a snapshot of what we can expect!

Orchestra! For one night only, hear all the epic sounds come to life right before your very eyes.

Hans Zimmer is one of the most decorated and successful modern composers — a legendary figure in the music world. From Gladiator to Interstellar, Inception to The Dark Knight, and Pirates of the Caribbean to The Lion King, Zimmer’s masterful scores set him apart. Now you can experience the world’s most beloved musical moments in one unforgettable evening.

THE FILM MUSIC OF HANS ZIMMER 16 SEPTEMBER Are you a fan of Hans Zimmer’s breathtaking film scores? Now you can experience them Live in Concert with The George Ellis Symphony

SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR – HOPE 20 SEPTEMBER Hope is an all-new concert by 3-time Grammy®-winning Soweto Gospel Choir celebrating songs and anthems from the

Freedom movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa to the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s 1950s America. Hope opens with a rousing program of South African freedom songs before the repertoire echoes down through time to the USA, with beautiful renditions of the protest music of the Civil Rights Movement, including works by legendary artists James Brown, Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder and the one-and-only Aretha Franklin. Formed to celebrate African Gospel music's unique and inspirational power, Soweto Gospel Choir draws on the best talent from the many churches in and around Soweto. Hope is a concert that will live forever in your hearts!

BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE CIVIC THEATRE – 25 TO 27 SEPTEMBER New Annual presents a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes in the Civic Theatre on a guided backstage tour. This behind-the-curtain tour is a great chance to discover the secrets of one of Australia's most iconic Theatres. Led by one of the Civic’s knowledgeable team leaders, this 60-minute tour is a rare opportunity that takes you to the heart of the theatre. See the theatre's workings and walk down memory lane to learn all about the theatre's fascinating history. Guided Tours are delivered in English, and there are 20 spaces available per tour.

Civic Theatre presents...

22-23 September Tantrum Youth Arts

Good Mourning Written by Sonia Dodd

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase 29 September

Tickets civictheatrenewcastle.com.au or 4929 1977

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Count Us In 2023 Launch

Inclusion is Everyone's Business at Count Us In Festival. READ ONLINE Count Us In returns this month with its largest inclusive event offering over an expanded three-week program. Now in its fourth year, the festival features more than 60 events and activities designed to celebrate and encourage access and inclusion across Newcastle.

Presented by City of Newcastle, the program was developed in collaboration with Community Disability Alliance Hunter (CDAH) and will bring a range of activities to the city, including dance and art experiences, sports challenges, social and peer networking events and training opportunities, whilst the business community is invited to join a business lunch

led by keynote speaker Dylan Alcott AO. Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said inclusive employment was a key focus for this year's Count Us In festival.

“City of Newcastle prides itself on being a liveable and welcoming community for all people, increasing social inclusion and community connections with events like Count Us In festival in line with CN's Disability Inclusion Action Plan,” Cr Nelmes said.

"This year, we are delighted to welcome Dylan Alcott AO to lead the Hunter business community in an important conversation as we work together towards solutions for greater

employment and workplace inclusion for people with lived disability."

Councillor Margaret Wood, co-chair of City of Newcastle’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, said Count Us In recognises and celebrates the contributions made by people living with disabilities.

“Count Us In effectively and respectfully brings the whole community into the discussion about inclusion; this builds awareness, breaks down barriers and helps create future opportunities, especially when it comes to employment," Cr Wood said.

Andrew Vodic, Executive Director of Community Disability Alliance Hunter (CDAH), says the organisation is proud to partner with City of Newcastle as the official community partner for the festival in 2023.

“Once again, CDAH members are excited to be involved in the Count Us In festival. We are looking forward to the 2023 activities, and as official partners with City of Newcastle, CDAH members have a great opportunity to showcase some of our peer groups and community initiatives,” Mr. Vodic said.

Count Us In will be held from 4 – 24 September 2023. For a full program of events and activities, visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov. au/countusin.

APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT PROGRAM Kooragang Island

The second round of funding for Orica’s 2023 Community Investment Program is now open, with grants of up to $10,000 available to eligible local community groups.

The Orica Community Investment Program supports initiatives that promote education and lifelong learning, improve and protect the environment, and build strong communities.

Application forms and supporting documents are available at orica.com/kooragang Applications for this round of funding will open 1 September and close 30 September with successful recipients notified in October.

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Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley | Source: Wingham Music Festival

24

Credit: Carlita Sari Photo. Source: Strut n Fret

Dancing on The Tables at Blanc de Blanc Encore WORDS LIANE MORRIS

READ ONLINE

Newcastle’s love affair with the famous Spiegeltent is set to continue this month when Strut & Fret’s ever-popular Blanc de Blanc Encore returns as part of the City of Newcastle’s New Annual Festival. Hot from return seasons in Sydney and Darwin, there is no better way to herald in Spring than a champagne frolic

with sexy, awe-inspiring antics in Civic Park.

Packed with new surprises and new local and international artists, it’s a hedonistic, glamorous and extravagant world of vintage French flair, risqué humour, spectacular aerials, comedy and big dance numbers that will have you dancing in your seat and gasping for more.

This intoxicating Gatsby-esque ride astonishes and delights with its world-

renowned brand of opulent, cheeky, edge-ofyour-seat theatre.

The original Blanc de Blanc was staged in Civic Park in 2018, with the revised production, Blanc de Blanc Encore, wowing Novocastrians in 2022 after being cancelled due to Covid in 2019. Earlier this year, in March, local audiences lined up to see the Strut & Fret production of The Party, which has a more raucous, in-yourface, debaucherous feel.

According to Scott Maidment, Director and Producer, Blanc de Blanc Encore is “more sophisticated than The Party, much more elegant. It’s like drinking champagne.

At the beginning of the evening, it’s smooth, celebratory and elegant. As the evening progresses, it becomes more intoxicating; the bubbles go to your head, and you end up dancing on the tables full of sparkling joy. It has a completely different energy – less about the raunch factor and much more high-class!”

For those that have seen Blanc de Blanc Encore before, don’t let that stop you from coming again – introduce your friends to the Spiegeltent magic and re-experience the fun and mayhem you know is on offer. Regular attendees of Strut & Fret productions will know that no show is ever the same. For visit www. strutnfret.com/blancencore

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Rising Kamilaroi-Samoan singer-songwriter and Triple J favourite Becca Hatch will headline the free This Land concert at Museum Park during New Annual.

READ ONLINE

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City of Newcastle (CN) has unveiled details for This Land, Global Gathering and Ngiarrenumba Burrai (Our Country) as part of the final program for the flagship New Annual festival, which will deliver ten days of art, culture, and creativity across the city from 22 September.

Music fans will be in for a treat when rising Kamilaroi-Samoan singer-songwriter Becca Hatch takes to the Museum Park stage on Friday, 29 September, to headline This Land, a musical showcase of nationally renowned and local First Nations artists presented by the University of Newcastle.

The Sydney performer rose to prominence after winning Triple J Unearthed High’s Indigenous Initiative in 2017 and has gone on to carve out a name for herself in Australia's R&B scene, including a solo headline show at this year's Vivid LIVE and 2022 tours in support of Spacey Jane and Vera Blue.

“City of Newcastle is committed to developing a deeper local connection with, and understanding of, the people, practices and stories of the traditional custodians of our land and the diversity of cultures that make up our community today," said Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes.

The Minister for Multiculturalism, Steve Kamper, said the NSW Government was proud to provide $400,000 to the City of Newcastle under Multicultural NSW Festival and Event Grants to support the festival.

"The NSW Government is supporting more than 80 festivals and events through the latest round of Multicultural NSW grant funding, including Newcastle's diverse and eclectic New Annual festival," Minister Kamper said.

"Through this grant funding, City of Newcastle has been able to significantly expand this year's festivities to further celebrate the city's rich local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and multicultural fabric."

Hatch will be joined on the bill by Truwulway woman and hip hop artist Denni, Wiradjuri singer-songwriter Blanche and Maanyung, a proud Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl singer-songwriter who performed at the opening and closing of the First Nations Runway at the Melbourne Fashion Festival in 2022. Acoustic duo Chain Daisy from the University of Newcastle will round out the bill.

Visit www.newannual.com for more details about the full New Annual program and to secure your tickets.

kidSspring

a p u S fun fest

fun

Jungle Buddies Adventure

SEPTEMBER SCHOOL HOLIDAYS IN WALLSEND

Learning, Interaction, Art, Dance & Reading performances each week only in Wallsend check our socials for dates and times

Clowns & Play

Another community initiative by Wallsend Town Business Association

Jolly Pirates Tale wowwallsendtown

wowwallsend

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Mayor Suvaal and sons with a Tasmanian devil joey.

READ ONLINE

Our Bushland Festival is Back!

Presented by Cessnock City Council, Our Bushland Festival is back by popular demand following its successful launch in 2022. The festival will be held at Poppethead Park, Kitchener, from Saturday 9 to Sunday 10 September.

The festival is a celebration of the unique flora and fauna of the Cessnock region and includes bushwalking with local ecologists,

market and food stalls, mini workshops and free live music all day, including performances by Melody Pool, The Lairs, 24 Strings and Fish Fry. Cessnock City Council Mayor Jay Suvaal is encouraging the community to come along and embrace these special and unique bushlands and experiences.

“This festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our diverse bushland and build a

stronger appreciation for the unique natural treasure in our own backyard,” Clr Suvaal said.

“There is something for everyone to enjoy, and I encourage the community to come along and help celebrate Our Bushland in the Cessnock region.”

Among the many exciting activities to join in over the weekend is the Evening Spotlight Adventure on Saturday, 9 September, where attendees have the opportunity to join a guided tour to view nocturnal birds, insects, bats, frogs and mammals in their natural environment, led by local ecologists.

The popular Tasmanian devil joeys will also return, thanks to wildlife conservation organisation Aussie Ark. The iconic Tasmanian devil is the world’s largest surviving marsupial carnivore and is currently listed as endangered.

“Aussie Ark does a wonderful job ensuring these beautiful creatures are able to live safely with a bright future ahead,” said Clr Suvaal.

“The opportunity to get up close with these fascinating animals will be a truly unique experience for the whole family!”

Our Bushland Festival is a free event, and all ages are welcome. For more information, please visit www.facebook.com/ourbushland.

Bookings to the Evening Spotlight Adventure are essential. To secure your place, visit www. eventbrite.com.au.

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(L-R): Tantrum Creative Director Penelope Kentish, Civic Theatre Manager Leonie Wallace, Civic Theatre Program & Venue Hire Coordinator Jordan Campbell and Councillor Carol Duncan.

READ ONLINE

Calling Local Creatives To Take Centre Stage!

Newcastle's creative and performing arts community are invited to express their interest in presenting new and reimagined works in Civic Theatre's intimate Playhouse Theatre in 2024.

Up to four shows will be selected as part of UpStage at The Playhouse, a new local program that will see each show offered a twoweek placement in the atmospheric 195-seat Playhouse, which is co-located in the same building at the iconic Civic Theatre.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle is committed to providing a platform for local creatives while also boosting what's on offer to the local community.

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Councillor Carol Duncan, said Newcastle is attracting a new wave of creatives.

"The timing is right for a local program like Upstage at The Playhouse with talent emerging in the region needing a launching pad. We look forward to seeing what comes through from the expressions of interest to form the 2024 program," Cr Duncan said.

Civic Theatre Manager Leonie Wallace said the program, which will take to the stage in March 2024, is all about local shows for local audiences.

“We piloted the program last year, and local theatre production company Tantrum Youth Arts was successful with their production Good Mourning, which will be presented as part of City of Newcastle’s New Annual festival this month," Ms Wallace said.

Tantrum Creative Director Penelope Kentish said Upstage at The Playhouse gives local theatre companies the opportunity to be part of something bigger.

"To have the support and investment from Civic Theatre in new Australian work is paramount for the early career artists we work with, to build and sustain their careers in Newcastle and have local audiences share in their stories.

Good Mourning at The Playhouse will play from 22 to 23 September as part of New Annual, in partnership with Civic Theatre (visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au for tickets).

Expressions of interest are now open and close on Friday, 15 September 2023. To register your interest, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle. com.au/community/upstage.

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30

E AT

Drink

Hunter Valley Feature

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Credit: Destination NSW

Credit: Cessnock CIty Council

READ ONLINE

A Backyard Full of Wine & Food Experiences If you could package up the best of all the world's major wine-growing regions and put it in one place – it would be in Newcastle’s backyard - the Hunter Valley.

Located just two hours from Sydney and a mere 45 minutes from Newcastle, for generations, people from all over Australia and

the world have travelled to the Hunter Valley to experience the region's exceptional food and wine experiences - its greatest asset.

With a range and quality of produce that is second to none, combined with a rich history going back to the 1830s, the Hunter Valley has become not just Australia's oldest wine

region but a leader in wine and food tourism.

Combined with its relatively mild climate, the Hunter Valley's food and wine experiences lead us outside to enjoy some of the world's finest flavours against a backdrop of stunning beauty.

Stepping inside the restaurants, renowned for their exciting food, warm hospitality, and magnificent locations, is a chance to experience the culinary creativity of some of the best chefs in the country. Visiting a cellar door, too, is quite extraordinary, and you are likely to find yourself chatting to the winemaker and several family members, often second or third-generation vignerons.

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More than 150 tasting rooms and restaurants specialising in wine country cuisine have added a jolt of grape-fuelled energy to the foothills of the Brokenback Mountains, where you can sample a wide range of world-class wines from varietals that include Chardonnay, Semillon and Verdelho amongst the whites and Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot among the reds. Wine lovers will also be thrilled to find a fast-growing range of Mediterranean varieties, including Fiano, Viognier, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Gris, and the red varieties of Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, Barbera, Tempranillo, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.

Adding to the mystique of the Hunter Valley is that the wine region comprises different localities or sub-regions – each with its own secrets to reveal and subtle nuances in wine characteristics.

Nestled amongst the breathtaking surrounds of the Brokenback Range, Mount View, with its winding roads and panoramic views, offers some of the most outstanding scenery available in the Hunter Valley. Visitors have their choice of a handful of highly acclaimed boutique wineries that seem to appear out of nowhere all providing a relaxed and idyllic wine-tasting experience and welcoming hospitality.

Often referred to as the ''Heart of the Hunter,'' Lovedale is located just east of Pokolbin and is renowned for its award-winning boutique wineries, restaurants and the famous annual Lovedale Long Lunch. With a wine and food trail consisting of 12 cellar doors and 10 restaurants, Lovedale offers the perfect weekend away and the ideal opportunity to experience some of the best wine and food the Hunter has to offer.

The rural locality of Pokolbin is considered the ''hub'' of the Hunter Valley wine region and where the largest collection of wineries, restaurants, providores, shops and some of the best-known names in Australian wine can be found. This is where you can sample vintages from old vines and new varietals at some of the country's oldest and most historic vineyards.

With well over 50 cellar doors, an equal number of restaurants and cafés, and a growing number of distilleries and breweries, visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to things to do, see and taste.

If you want some time away from wine tasting, explore the world-famous Hunter Valley Gardens or browse the shops at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village.

With so much to see, taste, and do, you will surely leave the Wine Country planning your return.

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A Heavenly Haven of Craft Beers, Boutique Wines and More!

It’s one of the oldest cellar door complexes in the Hunter Valley. But while the buildings that once housed tastings for Hungerford Hill still showcase a wide range of Hunter Valley reds and whites, its current tenant, The Garden Cellars, is known for more than just great wine.

Located within the Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village, once the site of the

renowned Hungerford Hill winery and tourist complex, The Garden Cellars offers the largest range of local craft beer in the Hunter Valley alongside local wines and premium spirits that are second to none.

The Garden Cellars has also stayed true to the site’s cellar door heritage, providing Cellar Door tastings for boutique Hunter Valley wineries such as Vales Wines and Polin & Polin.

Shimmer Chill Moscato

at The Garden Cellars

THE GARDEN

CELLARS 34

Given the expansive selection available, The Garden Cellars' remarkably well-informed staff are dedicated to keeping abreast of its vast array of products, and their forte lies in staying current, particularly when assisting customers in discovering precisely what they’re looking for from the wide-ranging collection and the continuously expanding array of regional vodkas, gins, and liqueurs.

If you’re looking for something a little unique, the new range of liqueurs will put your taste buds in a spin! There’s Mango, Coconut and Butterscotch Liqueurs, or for something a little quirky, try our favourite, Popcorn Liqueur, with notes of fresh buttered popcorn and a sweet finish.

Perfect for those nights curled up in front of a movie!

There are tastings daily, and the team are super friendly and always ready to lend a helping hand or suggest something new to try (did we mention the Popcorn Liqueur?)

Visit The Garden Cellars on your next daytrip to Wine Country. You’re sure to leave with a smile on your face (and a bottle or two in your hand!). For more information and online orders, visit www.gardencellars.com.au.

Garden Cellars Spirit Range NOW AVAILABLE IN STORE!

You will find us at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village Broke Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 DAYS 10am - 5pm | PH 4998 7466 www.gardencellars.com.au

alley Hunter V irit d Sp Wine an s Tasting e Availabl Daily!

The Next Generation of Hunter Valley Wines

Savannah Estate – Where Heritage Embraces Innovation As a third-generation member of a renowned family-owned winery, Peterson Family Wines, Savannah Peterson now leads the charge of her own wine label, Savannah Estate, nestled at the base of the enchanting Mount View.

Savannah Estate Wines are crafted using carefully chosen, small, and exclusive parcels of premium fruit sourced from renowned viticulture regions across Australia. With keen discernment, Savannah personally selects varietals from the country's most distinct and exceptional areas, ensuring they beautifully showcase their unique regional characteristics and inherent character.

Savannah’s ideology behind her wine label is combing great food, great company, and great music that harmoniously intertwines with her exquisite wines that seamlessly flow! This philosophy is represented through her innovative winemaking styles and the atmosphere enjoyed with the tasting experience through the Cellar Door.

While you may begin your Savannah Estate adventure as strangers, rest assured that you will always depart as family, connected by the shared love of wine, warmth, and camaraderie.

312 Mount View Road, Mount View | www.savannahestate.com.au | wine@savannahestate.com.au | 02 4990 6326

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Small Mouth Vodka

The Willy Wonkas of Spirits!

WORDS LIANE MORRIS Recently taking out three silver medals in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Small Mouth Vodka is proving that its signature shimmer is ready to take on the world. Their expanding range of spirits with edible glitter is proving popular with all ages, and the businessmen behind the brand are riding a tidal wave of demand.

The story of Small Mouth Vodka begins in 2014 when the brand's previous owners, Chris Payton and Rohan Rivett, launched Small Mouth Vodka after being inspired by a visit to the distilleries of Scotland. On a mission to create a vodka with an Australian personality, they created a spirit with character and purity that enjoyed some success. Fast forward to 2019, and new owners Peter Clarke and Paul Addis, with their savvy innovations, have turned the brand on its head.

Peter Clarke is no stranger to success.

With a background in accounting, law and economics, he has enjoyed a diversified career in various business enterprises, including Hunter Distillery, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company and The Garden Cellars at Hunter Valley Gardens, which he still owns and runs today. The Small Mouth Vodka Cellar Door is next to The Garden Cellars.

“The existing business of Small Mouth Vodka enjoyed a modest turnover,” said Peter.

“It wasn’t enough to continue with it, but when provided with the opportunity to take it on, I contacted Paul, and we bought it together.”

Recently hailed as the Willy Wonka of vodka, Paul Addis has spent his career working in 36

the alcohol industry – beer, wine and distilled spirits. He worked at Tyrrell’s for ten years, and when he went into business with Peter, it provided the perfect opportunity to work alongside his partner and their children to create something he truly loved, investing his energy into research and development and broadening the product offerings.

“It was my wife Mel who came up with the glitter idea,” said Paul.

“We were brainstorming ideas to drive the company forward, and she jokingly said that we should add glitter. We took the idea into research and development and have created a unique shimmering spirit that continues to shimmer even after carbonated mixers have been added – unlike our few competitors.”

In a very short space of time, the team behind the brand developed a range of 20 new products. The shimmer effect has no taste and no mouth feel and is a fiercely guarded trade secret. It adds a unique, fun, colourful element to the spirits that enjoy an exceptional degree of purity, being made from premium organic ingredients and pure Australian rainwater.

The process includes the use of traditional copper pot stills, with the spirit being distilled five times before undergoing the charcoal filtration process three times. The result is a consistently fresh and smooth finishing taste that is entirely sippable on its own, on the rocks, in all your favourite cocktails or with your preferred mixer. The flavours challenge preconceived notions of spirits with high alcohol volume.

With their range of gins, vodkas and liqueurs, there is something for every taste. Top sellers

include the Shimmering Passionfruit Vodka, Shimmering Caramel Vodka, Shimmering Watermelon Liqueur, and Shimmering Espresso Liqueur (which is perfect for cold winter nights). Free tastings are available at the cellar door at the Hunter Valley Gardens, where you are likely to meet a member of the Addis family who will be only too happy to take you through the range. The recent win at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition saw the Passionfruit Vodka, the Habanero Storm and the Sambuca all take out a silver medal.

Of course, Paul is continually working on new flavours to tempt our tastebuds. Flavours such as a chocolate cream liqueur and either a strawberry or vanilla cream liqueur, as well as a barrel-aged vodka, are the next products to hit the shelves, and the team of 20 are busy attending trade shows to raise awareness of the brand and keeping up with demand.

So far, sales are only available at the cellar door and online. The cellar door is open seven days, 10am – 5pm. Growing distribution is the next area of development for the business, but in the meantime, a visit to the cellar door for a free tasting will prove even to the non-spirit drinkers that Small Mouth Vodka is different, that it is smoother and overall, a more enjoyable experience than anything that competes in this market.

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Matt Dillow, owner of Gartelmann Wines; winner of the Best NSW Wine.

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Lucky Us! World-Class Wine at Affordable Prices WORDS DI VON ESSEN One of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious wine shows, the Sydney Royal Wine Show, recently announced its 2023 champion trophy recipients, and according to the results, it’s Australians who are the real winners. Not only are Australians getting access to some of the best quality wine in the world, but they are also getting it at reasonable price points. Out of the thirty trophies awarded, around 50 per cent are available to Australians at under $40, and a large portion are priced at $30 or less.

“Australian wine connoisseurs are winners here. The 2023 Sydney Royal Wine Show has demonstrated that not only are Australian producers delivering incredible wines, but they are doing so at reasonable price points for consumers,” said Sarah Crowe, chair of judges.

Once again, the Hunter Valley performed well, with Hunter Valley wineries receiving 5 of the 30 trophies awarded and sixteen wines across nine wineries from the Hunter region were awarded a gold medal.

The James Busby Perpetual Trophy for Best NSW Wine is awarded to the wine achieving the highest total medal score over the previous 12 months on the NSW Wine Show circuit, and this year, the Trophy for Best NSW Wine went to Gartelmann Wines for their 2018 Gartelmann Diedrich Reserve Shiraz.

Matt Dillow, owner of Gartelmann Wines, was thrilled with the win, describing the wine as their iconic single vineyard Shiraz and “a beautiful balancing act of dark berry fruit and subtle spice with supple tannins and lasting acidity. It truly is a sleek, elegant wine with the perfect balance of power and finesse”.

Other worthy trophy winners include McGuigan Wines, who took home the Trophy for Best Semillon and Trophy for Best Mature White for their 2014 McGuigan Bin 9000 Semillon.

De Iuliis Wines took home the Trophy for Best Current Vintage White for their 2023 De luliis Semillon Single Vineyard, and Silkman Wines was awarded the Trophy for Best Small Producer for the 2022 Silkman Wines Reserve Chardonnay.

Surrounded by fields of cattle and rows of vineyards, Parched Crow Wines is a new hidden gem in the heart of Pokolbin, rich with Hunter history.

Immerse yourself in the local, country wine culture by visiting the bespoke Cellar Door and savouring estate grown varietals such as Shiraz, Chardonnay, Rose, Moscato and Muscat. Discover the genuine side of the Hunter with Parched Crow Wines!

OPEN 10AM–4PM EVERY FRI, SAT & SUN Scan the QR code to book your visit! parchedcrow@outlook.com 0466 155 883 | 536 DeBeyers Road, Pokolbin 39

· OVER 50 INDIVIDUALLY CREATED DESSERTS · DESSERT + WINE /LIQUOR PAIRINGS · GLUTEN FREE + VEGAN AVAILABLE · SABOR’S OWN COFFEE · HOT, COLD + ALCOHOLIC DRINKS · TAKEAWAY OR DINE IN · E-GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE! For an altogether sweet experience, a visit to Sabor Dessert Bar is a MUST! Indulge in our multi-award winning Portuguese chocolate mousse, decadent cakes, pastries, hand-made chocolates, Portuguese tarts and gourmet ice-cream.

Bookings are recommended – visit our website or call us for same day bookings.

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The Lodge at Mount Rivers A Serene Hunter Valley Retreat WORDS DI VON ESSEN Nestled amidst the picturesque vistas of the Paterson River, The Lodge at Mount Rivers stands as a testament to tranquillity and natural beauty.

This hidden gem offers a one-of-a-kind escape for travellers seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its exceptional facilities, breathtaking location, and stunning presentation, it's no wonder guests are drawn back to this enchanting lodge time and time again.

A short drive from the village of Gresford and a scenic hour and a half from Newcastle, The Lodge at Mount Rivers boasts over 200

acres of private, sprawling countryside and 3.5 kilometres of exclusive Paterson River frontage that is yours to explore.

This architecturally designed pavilion house boasts vaulted ceilings and expansive picture frame windows that perfectly frame the aweinspiring mountain vistas, meandering river and the property's infinity pool.

Guests can unwind in the inviting common areas, such as the cosy lounges with crackling fireplaces, perfect for relaxing with a good book or spending quality time with friends and family.

Surrounded by native bushlands with abundant wildlife, the more adventurous can get outside and enjoy everything from hiking and kayaking to fishing and birdwatching.

With six spacious bedrooms and four well-appointed bathrooms, The Lodge can accommodate up to 19 guests, making it an ideal destination for family reunions, group getaways, or intimate gatherings. The cosy ambience is further enhanced by the outdoor fire pit and large open fireplaces that create a warm and inviting atmosphere on cooler evenings. Additionally, the lodge features an undercover alfresco area where guests can unwind and enjoy the fresh mountain air while taking in the scenic views.

For those who wish to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, ensuring that guests can remain in touch with the outside world if desired (or not!).

Guests are drawn to the Lodge at Mount Rivers for its outstanding facilities, breathtaking location, and unmatched sense of serenity and tranquillity. Unwind, recharge, and reconnect with nature. Visit www.thelodgeatmountrivers. com.au.

A N I D Y L L I C D E S T I N AT I O N H I D E AWAY L I K E N O O T H E R A W A I T S :

The Lodge at Mount Rivers.

With 200 acres of private sprawling countryside and 3.5 kilometres of exclusive Paterson River frontage, The Lodge at Mount Rivers is located just a short drive from the village of Gresford and just 45 minutes from Hunter Valley vineyards.

Elegantly decorated, The Lodge features 6 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, accommodating up to sixteen guests. This stunningly presented property boasts a beautiful swimming pool, spectacular landscaping, air conditioning, numerous fireplaces, an undercover alfresco area, wifi and parking.

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Hunter Young Business Mind Awards READ ONLINE

As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and dynamic, the skills required for successful employment are evolving rapidly.

Participating in the Hunter Young Business Mind Awards (HYBMA) helps to cultivate the innovation and entrepreneurial skills that our NextGen will require to be future fit for tomorrow’s workplaces.

HYBMA encourages young people to solve real world problems in categories which fold seamlessly into the school curriculum.

This year’s entries are due in

by October 9. To enter, students must create a simple pitch deck and submit a 2-minute video of their idea. Primary students work as a classroom in the category of sustainability. Secondary students and those under 25 choose from

the categories of sustainability, business or social enterprise, creative industries, and design and technology.

In 2018, Belmont Christian College year 11 students won two awards. The Business Studies teacher, Mr Ross Urane, recommends the awards to students and teachers at other schools and already has one student who has entered this year.

“Anything that inspires our young people is great,” said Mr Urane. “These awards deliver the opportunity for innovative thinking and problem solving … something that will become critically important in their future. We already run a Shark Tank expo where students pitch their ideas, so entering the pitch into the awards is not difficult.”

The HYBMA website is full of useful resources for students, teachers or parents. It’s not too late to get those entries in. Winners receive $1000 and runner-ups $500 at an awards ceremony on November 15. Visit www.ybma. com.au.

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Supporting Local

for the Northstars!

Dr. Kathryn Holmes

Balancing innovation and technology with traditional values.

V I SIT US

5/149 Ambleside Circuit, Lakelands 02 4954 5044 • www.themayahclinic.com.au Dr. Kathryn Holmes AHPRA reg : Reg no MED0001147509 General registration, Fellow of CPCA and ACAM

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The Newcastle Northstars season may have come to an end, but that support continues from the amazing local businesses that support your Newcastle Northstars on and off the ice. This month, we’re highlighting a handful of those businesses.

Machine Control Australia specialise in the Installation, Support and Training of any blade guidance system on the market.

After they have left your site, you will know you received the best install quality, taking no shortcuts.

They can give you all the tools and information you need to get the job done most efficiently. Machine Control Australia is happy to meet every customer's requirements.

Visit Machine Control Australia at www.machinecontrolaustralia. com When planning your next project, consider Makin 3D. This cutting-edge 3D modelling and rendering company is renowned for its visuals and accurate models for your project. They leverage advanced technology and software to create realistic and immersive 3D environments, product models, and animations. Their team of experts are highly skilled, having worked on a wide range of projects from architectural visualisations to product designs.

Makin 3D is committed to delivering high-quality results communicating your design intent and vision. Visit Makin’ 3D at www. makin3d.com.

United Safety can combine our strengths and lead the way forward with the world’s most advanced fire protection solutions. Their integrated network of innovative fire suppression products is fully reliable and comprehensive, providing safety and protection to people and businesses when needed.

Visit United Safety here www. unitedsafetycorporation.com.au.

Inspirations Paint is Australia’s largest network of paint stores, carving out a reputation as the country's best paint and colour experts due to their unrivalled commitment to customer satisfaction. They offer a unique colour showroom concept, which makes picking the perfect paint colour an absolute breeze. Each of their 130 stores across the country is locally owned and operated, and their extensive range of topquality paint brands and supplies cater to every project size and type. All these factors combine to make Inspirations Paint the go-to choice for any painting project in Australia.

ADULT BALLET CLASSES

Curious about Adult Dance Classes?

Discover the benefits.

Dancing isn’t just social, its also a fantastic way to boost your physical and mental well-being and strengthen and tone your body effectively.

In fact, ballet in particular is great for improving balance, muscle strength and fitness, memory and flexibility and co-ordination Join our experience adult dance teachers, Brett Morgan OAM (Pictured) and Ginevra Cicatello, as they deliver these exciting adult dance classes for all levels and abilities.

New daytime and evening class times available

What can I say about Brett’s Adult Ballet classes?... only that it’s one of the best hours of my week!

No matter how stressed, tired and to be frank, not feeling a bit like exercise I am, I’m magically transformed, and leave feeling those happy endorphins circulating!

Chris Ware

ENQUIRE NOW.

Enrol Now! My Grown-up & Me

Classes for 12 months to 3yrs

Tiny Tots Ballet and Jazz Pre-Kinder Classes for 3-5yrs

Pre Primary Ballet and Jazz

For little ones already in Kindergarten

USE QR CODE TO BOOK P 02 4952 9294 www.nationalcollegeofdance.com

Bring a friend, and book in for your free trial class.

Classes are designed for both boys and girls to enjoy.

Go to our webpage and download a

free Tiny Tots colouring book.

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Cr ed

it B

oni ta

Holm e

s-Nu’u

General Manager Georgie Cairns Credit Di von Essen

Hospital a Sanctuary for our Precious Koalas WORDS LIANE MORRIS | FEATURES WRITER The Port Stephens Koala Hospital is entering an exciting new phase in its development. Having recently been awarded a Federal Government Save Koala Fund – Health Grant of $3 million and a further $2 million from the NSW State Government as part of their Regional Koala Support Program, the hospital is undergoing significant expansion. Just in time for its third birthday!

Steering the organisation into the future is newly appointed General Manager Georgie Cairns. Georgie has a science degree with a major in zoology and has also worked as a secondary science teacher. Despite loving her teaching work, she always felt the pull toward wildlife and took up a position at Taronga Zoo, where she coordinated multiple projects, including Project Koala. A family move to Newcastle saw her coordinating volunteers at the RSPCA, and when the opportunity came up at the Koala Hospital, Georgie felt that all her experiences to date had led her to the right role.

“When I saw the job advertisement, I just knew I had to take the leap,” said Georgie.

“My work at Taronga Zoo had prepared me well – particularly my work on Project Koala, which is all about the conservation of koalas. There’s lots to learn. Each day brings a new challenge, but it’s such rewarding and important work.”

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Koalas are an endangered species.

According to state government research, by 2050, it will be extremely rare to see a koala in the wild. They are facing extinction unless we do something urgently. Since 2010, the Port Stephens Koala & Wildlife Preservation Society has rescued over 700 koalas and released over 400 survivors back into the wild.

“Our koalas are facing many issues that are contributing to their decline,” said Georgie.

“Deforestation, disease, car accidents and dog attacks are the primary culprits.”

According to Dr. Donald Hudson, the Koala Hospital’s Head vet, educating the community to be more aware of the situation and what to do when you come across a koala is a critical part of the solution.

“We need people to be aware of things that impact koalas, all wildlife really,” said Dr. Donald.

“It’s not just disease we’re dealing with.

We need to grow the right trees. People need to slow down in some areas, and if you hit something, for goodness’ sake, stop and call our rescue line.

“Koalas are very chilled out and have no natural predator. They’re not stressed by people; in fact, they’re curious. Contrary to what people believe, they are not stupid, nor are they drunk on eucalyptus oil. They can run 35 km per hour and leap several feet in the air.

“Dog attacks are the worst. The koalas look okay on the outside, but the internal injuries

are terrible, with deep lacerations, infections and puncturing of organs. If they live, it can take months to treat the injuries and wounds, but possibly, the trauma is even harder to treat.

They go through a complete personality change once they’ve been attacked. In contrast, a car accident is easier to treat. Because they are so tough, it’s usually just some fractures they recover from fairly quickly.”

The passion of local people working to protect and preserve the koala population in the Port Stephens area is what makes all the difference at the Koala Hospital. Veterinary nurse Zoe Bradley has worked with Dr. Donald for 17 years, long before the hospital was developed.

“I moved here 17 years ago and became a koala volunteer,” said Zoe. “I loved it so much that I did my veterinary nurse training and progressed from there. It’s my passion, and it’s a great team that I’m privileged to work with every day.”

The time it takes for a koala to recover is why so many volunteers are required for the program to be successful. The hospital runs 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and there are up to 16 volunteers on site every day.

This ‘koala army’ undertake a myriad of tasks, including administering medication, weighing, bringing the koalas up to the clinic for their health checks, servicing the yard, counting koala poo and collecting fresh leaves. Some

Head Vet Dr. Donald Hudson and nurse Zoe Bradley Credit Di von Essen

volunteers do administration and marketing work.

“I’ve been a volunteer here for three years,” said Bonita Holmes-Nu’u, a photographer when she isn’t volunteering.

“The day starts with a group meeting where we are allocated our tasks and koalas for the day. There’s a lot of training involved when you become a volunteer, but it’s mostly hands-on. I recommend it to anyone who is interested and can respect the fact that they are wild animals.

As much as you want to cuddle them, you can’t.”

Keeping the koalas appropriately fed is a huge task assigned to its own plantation team of volunteers. Four days per week, this team goes out to collect leaves from preexisting plantations, harvesting ten per cent of the leaf from the larger trees. To feed one koala for a year takes one thousand trees, and they will only eat trees from their local area. This fact has implications for anyone trying to move koala populations from one location to another. To keep pace with the need for the correct species of trees, the Koala Hospital has put a call out to landowners in the area who have space for tree planting. The plantation team will go out and plant trees on your property so that, in the future, they can harvest the leaves as koala feed.

The funding recently received from the Federal and State Governments is earmarked

for the Port Stephens Koala Hospital upgrade and operational expansion, which is to include things such as staff wages, a physical expansion of the hospital and clinic and training so that the clinic can serve all wildlife, not just koalas. The latter is a significant change to the operations of the facility. In addition, there has been a generous donation from the Cockbain Family Wildlife Trust to cover the purchase of a Supria Fuji Film CT Scanner.

“We’re very excited to be able to offer the same level of care that we offer koalas to all wildlife,” said Georgie.

“Our hospital is probably one of the most modern and equipped facilities of its kind for the treatment of native wildlife in Australia, and it seems crazy when there are so many animals in need, not to take advantage of that.”

The fact remains, however, that even with these generous donations and funding grants, the Koala Hospital will continue to rely on public donations to keep its doors open. The Koala Sanctuary, within whose grounds the Koala Hospital sits, is run separately by the Port Stephens Council and was set up as a tourism site to be self-sustainable. A percentage of what it earns is used to support the hospital.

With the Koala Hospital and the Koala Sanctuary celebrating their third birthday this year, the success of the facilities is undeniable and something for the local community to get behind and celebrate.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

• Adopt a koala. These virtual adoptions are available online. You’ll receive an adoption certificate and photo and regular updates about how your koala is going.

• Donate. All donations are tax-deductible.

• Volunteer. Apply online to become a volunteer.

• Plant the right trees. If you’re a local landowner with space to plant some trees, contact the Koala Hospital and the plantation team will assess the situation to see if your land is suitable for growing koala feed. The trees will be provided free and planted for you.

• Do the right thing. Remember to slow down in areas where wildlife may be present. Keep your dogs inside at night. Always stop your car if you hit something and call the Koala Hospital rescue line on 1800 775 625 for free help with injured native wildlife.

• Go Shopping. There is an online shop full of fun koala-related gift ideas.

Visit www.portstephenskoalas.com.au or scan the QR code on page 2 to go directly to the website.

The KOALA HOSPITAL RESCUE LINE is 1800 775 625 for free treatment of injured native wildlife.

Credit Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary

3RD BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS MONDAY 25 SEPTEMBER For a great day out, birthday celebrations include free gifts for every child, scheduled guided tours hosted

by Sanctuary Ambassadors, cutting of the Official Birthday Cake, and Koala Talks by Port Stephens Koala Hospital.

Check out our socials for more Birthday celebration information. /portstephenskoalasanctuary @pskoalasanctuary

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On Tour With the Kid CHLOE O'SULLIVAN

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Brutal Reality I have a confession to make. Something I’m not proud of, but it is nonetheless true. My name is Chloe, and I watch reality TV. Not just The Block like regular people. I watch several of the Real Housewives franchises. Orange County, Beverly Hills, Atlanta, New York and the spin-off Vanderpump Rules. There was an Aaron Sorkin show called Studio on the Sunset Strip, in which this kind of show was referred to jokingly as “illiterate programming.” As much as I would like

to consider myself above it, sometimes I don’t want to read or eat my vegetables! I just want to lose myself in someone else's drama for an hour at a time.

I watch these shows like an episode of Days of Our Lives. I invest in the storyline but not the people. I’m certainly not commenting on their Facebook pages or sliding into their DM’s to tell them how much I love/despise them. Despite the ‘reality’ tag, having worked in and around

the industry for a long time, I understand that while they are real people, this is by no means reality. They are in set-up situations that would never happen organically, and it is a producer's job to draw out the drama.

It’s not like you are watching a fly-on-thewall nature documentary where things are naturally occurring around you. It is known as the observer effect. Whereby the very act of being there changes the event itself. Reality TV is this concept taken to a whole other level.

This brings me to the most recent season of Vanderpump Rules. For those unfamiliar with the show, it’s a bunch of 20 and 30-somethings all working in a bar together and following along with the drama that comes with being that age, gorgeous, having too much free time on your hands and lots and lots of alcohol.

A long-time couple on the show, Tom Sandavol and Ariana Madixx have been together for nine years with no kids but a house and a dog. Their friend James was engaged to a young 20-something beauty queen named Raquel, and the engagement broke up. At some point, Tom and Raquel began having an affair that lasted for seven months before the whole thing came out because Tom had, without Raquel's permission, taped her during a very adult Facetime call, and Ariana subsequently

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found that video on his phone. I feel like I have lost brain cells just explaining this story to you, but now you are all caught up.

So the entire season was a build-up to this being revealed in the final episode and then the confrontation of the betrayal in the three-part reunion special.

There had been an entire press campaign in the lead-up. It even had a name, Scandavold. If you have ever been cheated on, you had picked a side. After the cast had a chance to discuss her, Raquel walked on stage, obviously nervous and ready to apologise.

The cast let loose with a tirade of insults.

What was never discussed was that the show was verging on being cancelled, and this drama had brought it back from the dead and that everyone (including the network, the producers and certain cast members) was profiting from this scandal because it brought new life to the show and their brand. There is a reason for them to protect

the realm at all costs. The illegal nature of her being taped without her permission also never rated a mention.

These things were said to her on national television. “You’re nothing”, “You are rotten like a mouldy piece of fruit,” “Go f*%$ yourself with a cheese grater,” “I wish nothing but the worst things that could ever happen to a person on you,” and “You are ugly.”

This girl ended up spending three months in a mental health facility and is not returning to the show, which also became public fodder. This girl has received death threats and online abuse.

These are real-world consequences for a girl in her 20s who made a mistake. To quote a line from Ted Lasso, “I wish all of us or none of us were judged by our worst day.” There is a difference between punishment and abuse, which has well and truly crossed the line. I am not sure I can consider this guilt-free TV anymore. Let's hope the kid never wants to be famous.

Be a hero for Oscar this month!

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Be a SUPERHERO and Fight Muscular Dystrophy Whether you’ve always wished to be Wonder Woman or fancied yourself as The Phantom, now is the prime time to join thousands of Aussies dressing up to do good for Muscular Dystrophy

Australia’s (MDA’s) National Superhero Week, which runs 4–10 September.

This fun initiative helps raise awareness and valuable funds to find a cure for the 60 genetic diseases and conditions that fall under the Muscular Dystrophy ‘umbrella’, which cause progressive – and irreversible – muscle wastage.

Funds raised also support people impacted by Muscular Dystrophy (MD).

Heroes at childcare centres, kinders, schools, workplaces and sporting clubs are encouraged to sign up to organise a fundraiser where everyone ‘capes up’ or takes on an alternate superhero mission. Using the resources available at www. superheroweek.org.au, fundraisers can be sponsored to read books, accrue steps, or do anything to help raise funds for MD.

THINKING OF ADOPTING? Check out our…

PETS OF THE MONTH READ ONLINE

JEZZE Over 400 Days in Care

Can you believe that this very handsome boy has been in foster care for over a year? Not one person has applied for Jezze, and we do not understand why.

He is affectionate, loving and fun. Jezze is very social, and all he really wants to do is hang around with you. He is still playful at two years old and will make someone a very loyal friend. It is time Jezze found his very own place to call home. Are you that person willing to give him that?

Kobi loves to be with his people! He is one of those dogs that will sit at your feet and radiate happiness in your presence. Kobi walks well on lead, constantly checking in that you are there. Kobi prefers his own company, so we feel he is best as an only dog unless you have a friendly female dog.

He is a big boy, so a family confident with larger breeds would be great.

Treat your pooch to an exceptional grooming experience or daycare stay.

We look forward to giving your fur baby all the care, love and style they deserve!

KOBI | Four-years-young Ridgeback-cross

Please get in touch with Dog Rescue Newcastle if you’re interested in adopting one of this month’s pets. www.dogrescuenewcastle.com.au

Salon: 0423 648 366 | Daycare: 0417 117 524 E: woof@blueyvuitton.com.au | www.blueyvuitton.com.au 49

DENTAL VENEERS In the Name of Beauty…

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intouch contributor DR ALEX HUSZTI BelleDental Alex has had a career focused on lowbiologic cost reconstructive cosmetic dental care – common sense teeth for life.

Yes, I agree. What is the point of having a dental intervention if it doesn’t enhance cosmetics?

This is how dental veneers are understood, interpreted and sold.

When I did a deep-dive into the concept of direct resin composite veneers about 22 years ago, this was also my headspace around veneers. I expected that the prime candidates for my veneers would be women in the 30-to45-year age group, but do you know who I attracted? 50-to-75-year-old men.

There is nothing wrong with older men; in fact, I fall into this category – so let me share with you my experiences: 1. We are so used to seeing men (especially in this age group) with worn teeth. In fact, frequently, they don’t even show any teeth when smiling. Being male, this was pointed out to me by one of my female practice managers. She nudged me after a 60-something-year-old walked out of my practice after having had his top front teeth veneered. She pulled me aside and said, “That guy looks ten years younger with

his new teeth.” We guys don’t notice these things – women notice everything!

2. Veneers are traditionally sold as a cosmetic enhancement. At Belledental, veneers are frequently provided to patients with moderate to severe functional wear, even heavily filled teeth. They are primarily a restorative instrument - not a cosmetic one. Sure, it is about improving appearances, however, I’ve found that by generating ideal function, the ‘cosmetics’ simply arrive and are in character with the patient!

3. Unlike women who frequently submit to gruelling treatments in the name of beauty, men don’t want to be cut. Removing tooth structure is removing a part of them.

Often, the men who visit my practice do so because they seek an additive technique to solve their dental problems. They want to become more – not less.

4. Men don’t have time for day spas. Likewise, if it is avoidable, they get what needs to be done and then get on with it. So, one-day smile transformation programs suit them to a tee!

A note to the women reading this: Like my Practice Manager all those years ago – if you think your man needs a nudge, send him to Belledental!

March 2006

Call us today on (02) 4946 9122 68 Dilkera Avenue, Valentine Open Mon–Thurs 8am–5pm; Fri 8am–12pm

BelleDentalValentine fwww.belledental.com.au 50

March 2006 Removal

New Veneers

Removal of old resin veneers in 2023.

NO loss of tooth structure and no decay – in preparation for new veneers.

Completed in 2023 using latest low wear, colour stable composite resins.

July 2023

New Patient Offer Special offer for new patients! Comprehensive exam, x-rays, photos, impressions, cleaning, and a treatment plan, all for $250. Book today!

School Holidays Guide

Spring 2023 MONDAY 25 SEPTEMBER – FRIDAY 6 OCTOBER Yet another term has drawn to a close (I know, we can't believe it either!). And so, the age-old question rears its head – 'what on Earth can I possibly do to keep the kids entertained these school holidays? Make the most of the glorious Spring weather this school holidays and get out and about, of course!

Much like chickens, free-range kids are happier, healthier and are usually exhausted at the end of the day - just in time to pour yourself that glass of wine. Check out our sanity-saving pick of the hottest holiday hits happening around the region these holidays.

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SPRING INTO SCHOOL HOLIDAYS! READ ONLINE

Under Pressure!

Newcastle Museum | 3 + 4 Oct Check out scientist Catherine as she launches rockets, fires up some marshmallows and crushes cans, all with the power of science at these fun, free and interactive science shows for all ages. No bookings are required, but the first show of the day is usually jam-packed, so aim for the second or third if you can! Show times are 11:15AM, 12:15PM and 1:15PM each day at the Newcastle Museum Theatrette.

storytime of her recently released book 'Tom Shark: Oceans of Emotions', the children will gently explore themes of mental health, resilience, and kindness. Engaging activities will enhance their understanding of these crucial life skills, empowering them to care for their own well-being and extend compassion to others. Stories intertwine with lessons of empathy, and young hearts learn to flourish while caring for themselves and others. Suitable for ages 4-10 years. Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so please cancel if you can no longer attend. Bookings are essential at www.newcastle.nsw. gov.au/library/whats-on/events.

NEWCASTLE LIBRARIES Lego® Challenge Build And Bowl

26 Sept (Wallsend Library) 27 Sept (Newcastle Library) The LEGO® Challenge is on again!

Do you like to build? Do you like to bowl? If so, this is the challenge for you. We supply the LEGO® and the balls. You supply the imagination, building and demolition skills. Will you be able to bowl your creations down? Suitable for ages 5-14.

Tickets are free, but spaces are limited, so please cancel if you can no longer attend. Bookings are essential at www.newcastle.nsw. gov.au/library/whats-on/events.

Tom Shark Storytime

3 October (Newcastle Library) 5 October (Wallsend Library) Join local children's author Teighan Laino during this school holidays, where, through a captivating 52

Beacon Tech Camp

3-6 OCTOBER (Wallsend Library) 9..30AM – 3.30PM DAILY Attention parents! Is your child in Year 4, 5, or 6 and eager to participate in a STEM program using the latest tech during the spring school holidays? Register your child for the 4-Day Beacon Education program! The program is run by Lumination and BAE Systems Australia free of charge, with the goal of inspiring student interest in STEM across the country. Participants will be able to solve real-world sustainability problems through emerging technology. Exploring the realms of land, air and sea, students will get hands-on experience using immersive virtual reality, coding, artificial intelligence, 3D modelling and more! If your child is interested in participating, visit www.bit.ly/beacon-edu to register your interest.

Afterwards, they can process their fingers to take home as a souvenir of their time behind bars at Maitland Gaol. Visit www.mait.city/ GaolWhatsOn for more info.

CESSNOCK YOUTH CENTRE OUTREACH SERVICE (CYCOS) Youth Outreach @ Huntlee

MAITLAND GAOL Workhouse Woes: Scarecrow Scavenger Hunt

26 September + 3 October Enjoy a mini tour of the site, where you’ll learn about gardening and its importance to prisoner health. Following the tour, use clues to find the pieces you need to build your scarecrow that you can choose to take home or leave in the Gaol garden for spring. Visit www.mait.city/ GaolWhatsOn for more info.

Junior Sleuth: Fingerprinting 28 September + 5 October Junior Sleuths will take a mini tour of the site before learning how to dust for fingerprints.

Huntlee Park | 29 September Come and join the Library and CYCOS crew at Huntlee Park! Play some large games, grab some free merchandise and find out what activities and resources are available to our local children and young people for the school holidays and beyond. No need to book; just come along! Suitable for ages 8 to 16 – from 11AM until 1PM.

Outdoor Games At Branxton Pool

5 October Come along for the first swim of the season.

When you’re not swimming, the CYCOS team will have giant games and additional activities available. Free entry to the first 30 young people attending. Suitable for ages 10 to 18 – from 10am–12pm.

For CYCOS enquiries or bookings, contact www.facebook.com/CessnockYouthCentre or email the Youth Services Team at youthcentre@cessnock.nsw.gov.au.

Amaze & Play In The Garden

Hunter Valley Gardens 23 Sept To 8 Oct Enjoy a fun day out as you search for the lost creatures hidden within the giant Spring Adventure Maze and discover the magical fairies and gnomes of the Storybook Garden. The kids will love bouncing around on the inflatable jumping castle and seeing all the fresh Spring colours of Hunter Valley Gardens.

The giant Spring Adventure Maze is a fun challenge for the whole family, offering an exciting quest to find the lost creatures within. Spanning over 400 metres, the maze features intricate pathways, including tricky dead ends that will put your sense of direction to the ultimate test.

To book, visit www.hvg.com.au.

KEEPER TOUR GIRAFFE ENCOUNTER & BREAKFAST

$175 Adult / $125 Children (315yo)

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WILDLIFE SUNRISE is the ultimate new experience at Hunter Valley Wildlife Park. Enjoy unprecedented early morning access to the wonderful animals that call our wildlife park home. Our NEW experience includes a bespoke guided tour from one of our experienced zookeepers, the opportunity to hand-feed our magnificent Giraffe and enjoy a delicious breakfast overlooking Lemur Island opposite the Alligators! Includes a 6” x 9” souvenir photo and animal feed. Only $175 for adults and $125 for children (3-15 years).

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Hunter Ice Skating Stadium

ALL AGES, ALL ABILITIES Why not try ice skating this School Holidays! Enjoy top 40 music and video clips playing on the big screens, plus people can request their favourite songs to be added into the mix. There will also be a sectioned off area for beginners with available skating frames.

For the non-skating spectators – why not relax in the café while the kids skate!

Rental Skate sizes range from a Kids 9 up to an Adults 14. Lockers are available for a small fee to secure your belongings.

Hunter Valley Horseriding & Adventures

(1 adult + 3 kids OR 2 adults + 2 kids). These prices include skate hire. For more details and other session times please visit the website. www.hiss.com.au

DETAILS 230 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay. Prices are $17 for 6yrs or under, $22 for 7yrs or over, $18 seniors and $70 for a family

ALL AGES Get away from city living and go horseriding! It’s the perfect day trip – just 30 minutes up the Hunter Expressway. Hunter Valley Horse Riding & Adventures offers trail rides for both beginners and experienced riders – even the tiny tots can ride beautiful ponies with qualified guides leading the way.

Other activities on offer include tractor hay rides to feed the animals, pedal go karts, farm animals, BBQ facilities, mountain bike trails (BYO bike), ATV breeding barn and property tours, bush walking and ATV sunset tours with cheese and wine. We also offer race day packages in association with Muswellbrook Turf Club.

Sand Dune Safaris @hunterbotanicgardens Questions? (02) 4987 1655 2100 Paciic Highway, Heatherbrae NSW 2324

events@huntergardens.org.au 54

ALL AGES, ALL ABILITIES Come on the ultimate adventure!

Join Sand Dune Safaris in one of our purpose built off road vehicles and experience the magnificent Stockton Sand Dunes - the largest moving sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere, right here in beautiful Port Stephens.

We will be open every day of the NSW school holidays for our Sandboarding Adventure, starting

If you feel like staying a little longer, you can now camp on-site!

We also offer great guest house and semi self contained villa accommodation, where kids stay free during school holidays! (Villas only). Be quick to book, as we have limited spots available.

DETAILS Open 7 days 288 Talga Road, Lovedale.

Bookings are required.

PH Margaret on 4930 7111 or 0417 233 008, or visit www.huntervalleyhorseriding.com.au

at 9.30am with last shuttle to dunes at 3.30pm. Great for all ages and abilities, from toddlers to teens!

Try something unique for your child’s birthday party! Only $30 per person for a limited time. Email us for more details and don’t forget to mention this ad!

DETAILS Open every weekend and every day during NSW school holidays.

Weekdays available by appointment.

Operating times may vary according to season and weather conditions, please see our website for more details.

Departure location - Lower car park, end of James Paterson St, Anna Bay. Look for the big army bus!

PH 0425 213 096 www.sanddunesafaris.com.au

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September Horoscopes ASTROLOGER KIM FAIRMINER ON WHAT’S IN THE STARS THIS MONTH

STAR OF THE MONTH VIRGO 23 AUGUST – 22 SEPTEMBER Retrograde Mercury has you tongue-tied and somewhat confused until mid-month, but trust that the Universe has your back.

Everything will - somewhat unexpectedly - turn out for the best. All Virgo systems get a major upgrade at the New Moon, and you will be more switched on than ever. Temporarily check out on the 19th to lose yourself in art and romance; it could inspire you to move a mountain at work in the following days. Luck is on your side in late September, so follow your bliss in the lead-up to the Full Moon and envision your financial freedom.

LIBRA 23 SEPTEMBER – 22 OCTOBER You’ll be relieved to hear that friendships begin to stabilise after the complications of Venus retrograde. Douse the embers of any communal spotfires and start filling your social calendar again. Retrograde Jupiter offers a second look at your long-term finances; don’t let this opportunity slip through your fingers.

SCORPIO 23 OCTOBER – 21 NOVEMBER You’ve come a long way regarding partnerships in recent months. September offers you the chance to take a step back and acknowledge all your progress in this area of your life. Focus on integrating what you’ve learned rather than pushing for more. There’s plenty of aha moments coming your way. The New Moon encourages you to reinvest in, particularly people who inspire your creativity.

SAGITTARIUS 22 NOVEMBER – 21 DECEMBER September allows you to slow down and pay attention to your healthcare and wellness rituals. Don’t forget your spiritual health, whether church or nature, is your temple.

Career doors - some of which you thought remained firmly shut - unexpectedly begin to 56

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open from mid-month. Knock on those doors of opportunity, particularly on the 21st when you can wrangle a pay rise, or promotion.

come, but they will likely be welcome ones.

Count your blessings and express your gratitude as Jupiter retrograde begins.

CAPRICORN 22 DECEMBER – 19 JANUARY The New Moon lights up your adventure sector and opens pathways to unexplored destinations.

Plan a trip, enrol in study, or meditate more to nurture your spiritual side. Pencil in the 21st for a power move in the game of life, as you have both the wisdom and focus to make a longedfor vision your reality..

GEMINI 21 MAY – 21 JUNE Breathe! Your tricky ruler, Mercury, is retrograde until mid-month yet still manages to help you fall on your feet with fortunate coincidences in the first and last week of September. Don’t overthink it. The New Moon offers a clean slate, clear communication, and a more organised home and family life.

AQUARIUS 20 JANUARY – 18 FEBRUARY All the upheaval and uncertainty you’ve been through with your partner in recent weeks ends early in the month. Changes to the relationship and your living situation are underway. Stay optimistic because these aspirational goals hold great promise. There are practicalities to attend to, and the New Moon brings clarity around financial and emotional debts.

CANCER 22 JUNE – 22 JULY The New Moon in your information sector is a eureka moment. You’ve been working to solve an intricate riddle, and mid-month brings the solution you’ve sought. Try not to blow a mental gasket by overworking your mind before then.

Some things just take time, and it’s probably not as urgent as you think. Grab a bargain or buy a raffle ticket on the 16th.

PISCES 19 FEBRUARY – 20 MARCH Jupiter has brought abundance to your information sector for months, and your brain is bulging. It’s time to consolidate and integrate what you’ve learned into your daily routine. A recent health matter will also likely be resolved this month and require lifestyle changes. A daily walk is an excellent option.

LEO 23 JULY – 22 AUGUST Ka-ching. Irritating money detours end midmonth thanks to the New Moon and Mercury moving forward. Cash begins to flow again, but don’t spend it all at once. You’ve learnt to read the fine print and check your receipts.

Spending on a double shot or an arvo treat is recommended on the 19th when you’ll need extra energy.

ARIES 21 MARCH – 20 APRIL You’re operating outside your comfort zone in September, focusing on partnership and cooperation. This a great opportunity to delegate and collaborate in personal and professional relationships. Feel warm and fuzzy mid-month by volunteering or doing a favour for a friend or neighbour. Some Arians may welcome a new furry family member.

TAURUS 21 APRIL – 20 MAY With Venus retrograde ending, you can also begin to move forward. This will be felt most strongly in relation to a family or household matter that has been frustrating you for the last few weeks. There are a few more surprises to

intouch contributor

KIM FAIRMINER Kim is an astrologer, writer, and witch who has helped thousands of people achieve their goals, navigate challenges, make important decisions, and live their best life. Her readers, clients, and students rave about the deep spiritual insights she delivers with honesty, humour, and uncanny accuracy. Learn more about her work at www.kimfairminer.com

FAMILY & COMMUNITY •

HUNTER HOMES

& Lifestyle

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Robin Hastings in the Adamstown Showroom.

JETMASTER NEWCASTLE Where Tradition Meets Elegance READ ONLINE

WORDS LIANE MORRIS There is nothing like the ambience of an open fire to make us feel cosy and content in our homes, and also nothing quite like a fireplace to excite potential buyers when it comes time to sell. So, upgrading or installing a fireplace is a significant advantage when you’re considering renovating, building or just installing a new heating system. Jetmaster Newcastle, located in Adamstown, has been providing premium fireplace and period architectural hardware for well over ten years and offers a completely personalised service.

Jetmaster Newcastle owner Robin Hastings was born in Scotland, immigrating to Australia when he was eight years old. His father was a civil engineer, and the family moved around, living in Sydney and Forster before settling in Newcastle. After school, Robin followed in his father's footsteps and became a civil engineer and construction project manager, specialising in government infrastructure, becoming part owner of the company he worked for. He spent 25 years in this role, travelling a lot for work and living a stressful lifestyle until he decided he needed to spend more time with his family.

Robin has four children ranging in age now, 58

from 11 to 24. In 2013, he took his family back to Scotland on a holiday and spent two precious years making up for lost time and considering his next career move.

“It was when my brother-in-law was having his Jetmaster fireplace serviced that I learnt of the imminent retirement of the previous owner of Jetmaster Newcastle,” said Robin.

“I followed up the lead and took the plunge, purchasing the business in 2015. There was a lot that I could bring to the business with my background in civil engineering, and it’s three minutes down the road from where we live, so I can be a lot more flexible with my time. The family were really supportive of my decision.

“A lot of the staff stayed on. We have a very experienced manager and customer service staff that have been with the business for a long time and are experts at what they do. They’re good people who really know their stuff.”

The business specialises in high-quality gas and wood-burning fireplaces with the broadest selection of fireplace products in Newcastle and has the region’s most extensive collection of heritage and period architectural hardware with items such as window and door fittings, light switches and the ever-popular pressed tin metal panels for authentic heritage design.

Newcastle and its surrounds are old suburbs with a substantial number of heritage-style homes featuring ornate fireplaces, ceiling roses and decorative cornices. If you’re fortunate enough to live in one of these older-style homes, you’ll understand the challenges of honouring the past and retaining the home’s historical character. According to Robin, 80 per cent of his sales are converting old Federationstyle fireplaces into gas fires with surrounds that complement the existing architectural style.

In addition, the heritage hardware attracts builders and homeowners from all over the region to source those difficult-to-get pieces that make all the difference when renovating an older home or adding character to a new build.

Trends come and go, but the brand's reputation, Jetmaster, endures. It’s become quite famous on the renovation television show “The Block”, with host Scotty Cam boasting about having the largest Jetmaster fireplace in his own home and how wonderful it is.

The showroom at Adamstown is an inspirational place to visit, featuring all the latest models and trends in fireplaces - wood burning, gas and electrical. It’s a one-stop shop that takes all the guesswork and hassle out of the process for people, with Robin offering obligation-free home visits where he will measure up, quote and plan your installation.

Showroom opening hours are Monday - Friday, 9AM to 5PM and Saturday, 9AM to 1PM, with after-hours, country and regional appointments also welcome. Call 4952 9299 or visit www.jetmasternewcastle.com.au.

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Norwegian designed furniture that delivers world leadding comfort.

Motion home theatre suites, Nordic Recliners and fixed sofas, all available in your choice of fabric or leather.

Try the range in store today.

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TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY

TREE LOPPING SPECIALISTS Since 1784

HAND FORGED WROUGHT IRON EXCLUSIVE DESIGNS UNCOMPROMISING QUALITY Specialising in artistic restoration and new works, Danish born René Rasmussen has the blacksmith’s skill to restore and recreate the style of yesteryear in many creative and varied forms.

When you walk in Rene’s blacksmith shop, you will get the feeling you walk 100 years back in history. Fire in the coal forge, and tools that are 100, even 150 years old.

If the tools could talk, you'd have part of the history here.

Former blacksmith and farrier for the Queen of Denmark Former blacksmith and farrier for Carlsberg breweries Traditional Danish Family Blacksmiths since 1784

For all enquiries please contact the office | 71 Branxton St, Greta NSW 2334 PH 4981 7174 | M 0402 190 835 E cosyiron@optusnet.com.au | www.cosyiron.com.au

• Free, Prompt, No Obligation Quotes • Fully Insured • Pensioner Rebates • Stump Grinding • Hedge Trimming • Chipping Services • Reliable Service • Site Cleaned • Wood Chipping and Mulch Sales

NEIL 4945 8923 OR 0438 506 949 MARK 0424 275 386 40 YEARS’ EXPERIENCE • NO JOB TOO SMALL OR LARGE

BTS TREE SERVICES

All Tree Work, Hedging & Pruning

THE NIPPY NEW WAY

PLUS Stump Service, Palm & Hedge Trimming, Arborist

TO PRESERVE YOUR PROPERTY IS HERE!

Free Quotes • Pensioner Discounts Fully Insured • Prompt Reliable Service

NIPPING issues early, to save you money in future home maintenance repairs.

NIP IT can fix home maintenance issues now or, we can provide a home maintenance review to locate issues that need attending. This means you can NIP IT in the bud before it NIPS your hip pocket!

Mr NIP IT Alan Drablow LIC: 309570C

NIP IT today

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TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY

D & J MILLER CONSTRUCTIONS ALL ASPECTS OF BUILDING

• New Homes • Extensions • Renovations • Maintenance No Job Too Big Or Small • Free Quotes Honest & Reliable Service PHONE DARYL 0400 117 867 OR 4920 7526

LOCAL, HONEST, GARAGE DOOR SPECIALIST.

High Pressure Cleaning

• All Property Exteriors • Driveways • Retaining Walls • Paths • Decking • Fencing Soft Wash Whole House, removes all mould & grime Resealing and re-colouring of concrete

Gary

0455 111 597

No Obligation Quote

GYPROCKING • New Work • Renovations • Pre Paint Repairs • Small Jobs

NEW DOORS | AUTOMATION | REPAIRS & SERVICE Servicing Newcastle & Lake Macquarie - Call James

0402 224 375 | support@garagedoorassist.com garagedoorassist.com

Pensioner Discounts

Call Bill 0401 624 029 ALL WORK GUARANTEED FREE QUOTES • ALL AREAS LIC NO. 77284C

TRADES & SERVICES DIRECTORY List your business here and on the intouch online directory each month! Email quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au or call Quentin on 0432-195-942 today! Check out the Local Business Directory at www.intouchmagazine.com.au 62

• Custom Made • Professional • Blinds • Awnings • Shutters • Privacy Screens Manual • Automation • Sensor Options Available

Visit our website to see our vast range of Blinds, Awnings and Shutters or see our Showroom at 8 Torrens Avenue, Cardiff.

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Windsor Works Wonders with Windows

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Proudly Family owned and operated providing Professional Standards with expertise servicing Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Lower Hunter and Port Stephens areas for more than 75 years.

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www.windsorblinds.com.au 63

What makes a new home feel like home?

Sheridan 34 | Hamptons Facade

Come home to a home that is uniquely yours.

At Clarendon, we are dedicated to the love of coming home.

It’s a feeling that only comes from building homes that you feel completely at home in. For first timers, up-sizers or down-sizers we offer more than 100 home designs that you can personalise with floorplan options and upgrades.

Boston 42 | Sylvania Display Home

We’ve been building homes this way for over 45 years because it’s not just what we do, it’s who we are.

Explore more than 100 designs and floorplan options across our Sapphire and Aspire ranges.

Visit a Display Centre in the Hunter at Chisholm, Thornton or Lochinvar – see our website for locations across NSW.

The Cove 29 | Menangle Display Home

$30,000 VOUCHER PLUS FREE UPGRADES & MORE

CALL 13 63 93 | Clarendon.com.au WITH ANY CLARENDON HOME

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*Terms & conditions apply. The ‘45th Year Birthday Bonus’ promotion is available from 1 August 2023 to 17 November 2023 excluding the Luxury Upgrade Packs that are available until 30 September. Only available in NSW to new clients who place an initial deposit and sign their presented tender within 7 days from the presentation date (“the Offer Acceptance Period”). This promotion is available on Clarendon Sapphire and Aspire specification priced homes and is based on standard traditional floorplans. Clarendon Homes reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. The Promotion is not available in conjunction with any other offer. E&OE. Clarendon Homes (NSW) Pty Ltd (ABN 18 003 892 706) Builders License No 2298C. E&OE. 8/23