Newcastle & Lake Macquarie | August 2015

Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

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ISSUE #03 //AUGUST 2015 WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Reminiscing with

CHRISTINE ANU Discover the Beauty of

THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET

Six Great reasons to

HEAD TO HAWAII Lifestyle // Entertainment // Dining // Fashion // Community // Travel // Family // Home // Money // Property

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INSIDE INTOUCH

PAGE 13

From the Editors...

Welcome to our August issue! One of the most surprising discoveries we have made since launching intouch magazine in June is that there are so many people in our locality doing such great things that no-one seems to be aware of! This month we talk to one such person – James Reid of Docs Mega Save Chemist (Market Town). In addition to James’ professional life as a Pharmacist, he is the founder of Run Reid – an organisation set up by James to raise much-needed funds for a variety of charities. We also talk to Novocastrian Plastic Surgeon, Dr Gary Avery about the “non-Hollywood” side of plastic surgery and the amazing work he and colleague Dr Moncrieff carry out within the public system to assist those who have been involved in accidents and other emergencies.

Of course, August is jam-packed with a large variety of shows and events. In this issue, we talk to Aussie music icons Christine Anu and Troy Cassar-Daley about their extensive careers in the music industry. The Australian Ballet comes to town to delight audiences with not just one but three ballets and a Dancers Class On-Stage, which will provide enthusiasts with a chance to gain insight into the working life of a touring dancer.

This month also sees the opening of dual exhibitions “A Gift to the City – the Roland Pope Collection.” Roland Pope was a Sydney based ophthalmologist, one-time cricketer for Australia and a notable collector of Australian art and literature. His extensive donation of art and literature were the catalysts for the building of our cultural institutions and decades of cultural benefaction to Newcastle.

With so much cold weather right as we go to print its no surprise that we’ve put some thought into rugging up with this season's essential jackets and coats. From faux fur to the biker, there’s bound to be a style to suit every taste and budget within our fashion pages. And if you can’t warm up with a Winter coat then maybe consider jetting off to Hawaii – our travel section provides you with 6 good reasons to do just that (as if we needed 6 reasons!).

If you’re an avid viewer of home renovation programs, you will have noted the resurgence of wallpaper. New papering techniques have made wallpaper more popular than ever and this month our friends at InsideOut provide some insight about choosing a wallpaper to suit both our homes and our decorating style.

We hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we have enjoyed putting it together for you.

As always, we welcome your feedback and encourage you to put pen to paper (or hands to keyboard) and let us know what you would like to read about in upcoming issues of intouch magazine. After all – it’s your local-living magazine!

WIN! PAGE 11

Contents//

ISSUE #03 AUGUST 2015

Features 7

Heart Connection with the Spirit World

8

Run Reid - Pharmacist on a Mission

13

Freedom Riding with Troy Cassar-Daley

15

Discover the Beauty of the Australian Ballet

16

Reminiscing with Christine Anu

24

Six Great Reasons to Head to Hawaii

31

Newcastle Food & Wine Expo

39

Wild Encounters in the Heart of the City

40

Beyond Face Value

43

A Gift to the City - The Roland Pope Exhibition

Stay intouch at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Quentin and Di von Essen | Publishers

GET MOBILE! View this month’s Issue of intouch magazine on your iPhone, iPad, android tablet or android phone. Simply download the QR code and get mobile!

Got a great story to tell? Know someone who does?

Budding writer or sensational photographer?

We love contributions, so drop us a line at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU FACEBOOK.COM/INTOUCHMAGAZINES INSTAGRAM @INTOUCHMAGAZINES

Contacts Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen: quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen: di@intouchmagazine.com.au

On the Cover

Phone (02) 4967 3600 Address Suite 4, 2 Smith Street, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales Quentin von Essen Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen & Carla Elkin Graphic Design Jess Codrington © Copyright 2015 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.

4 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

James Reid (pictured far right) is the pharmacist determined to change the lives of those less fortunate. Owner of Docs Megasave Chemist, husband, father, philanthropist and sportsman, James is keen to make a difference with his 'second chance' (Page 8).

Contributors

PAGE 8

Deborah Bartlett Lachlan O'Connor Amber Moncrieff Mark Kentwell Di von Essen Richard Ford

Chris Williams Lisa Simmonds-Webb Alyce Cowell Kerrie Howells Quentin von Essen

Mel Murray Michelle Meehan Megan O'Sullivan Claire Edwards

Emily Levick

INSIDE INTOUCH

Letters to the Editor...

PAGE 24

Letter of the month:

PAGE 22

PAGE 15

Hi there, Today I picked up the July copy of the Intouch magazine and enjoyed it so much felt I should send you a note of congratulations. It has a great mix of subjects and is simply full of interesting things. I would also like to compliment you on the layout which is far more readable than many magazines these days which seem to focus on the artistic style at the expense of readability.

I have signed up for the electronic version and look forward to receiving a copy of the July issue.

Regulars 6

Top Five

10

What’s on Guide

17

Fashion, Health & Beauty

I hope that local support remains high for the magazine and look forward to many future issues.

24 Travel

Warm regards, Ken (via email)

26 Eat//Sip//Savour

Editors Note: Thanks Ken for your support, we are also looking forward to many future issues!

37 Home 39

Family & Community

43

Finance/ Money

44

Property & Real Estate

Tracy-Lee was the lucky winner of our Daryl Braithwaite competition in the June issue of intouch magazine. Thanks for the pics!

Dear intouch team, Thank you so much for the tickets to Daryl Braithwaite - we had a blast & the King Suite room at Lizotte's was fantastic!

Tracy-Lee Grant (by e-mail)

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TOPFIVE COMPOSITE MOCKUP

‘There’s a message in here for all of us’ WAY N E B E N N E T T

Photo of the Month

Top Book ALEX MCKINNON UNBROKEN With David Ricco

WITH DAVID RICCIO

Rugby League was Alex McKinnon’s life. Then, in the 39th minute of the Newcastle Knights vs Melbourne Storm game in March last year, Alex’s life changed forever. A tackle gone wrong damaging his spinal cord and leaving him paralyzed from the chest down. Like any young person Dave Bean– this in this situation - let alone a professional athlete was devastating.

UNBROKEN

UNBROKEN is the very personal story behind a most public tragedy. Alex talks of his exact thoughts and feelings during the those fateful moments lying on the field, and, with raw honesty takes us through his painful first days and weeks in hospital, including the heartbreaking moment he is told of the ramifications of his injury. It is surprising, thought provoking and inspiring. To purchase a copy of the book visit www.alexbook.com.au ($32.99).

with David Riccio

UNBROKEN Life is more than a game

6/07/2015 9:41 pm

LAUGHLIN O'CONNER This month's Photo of the month was taken by local High-School student Laughlin O'Conner whilst Image taken by Kathy Rothwell participating in the July Newcastle Photowalk. For more information about upcoming photowalks visit www.facebook.com/newcastleandthehunterphotowalks (the next one is on September 12 in Morpeth!).

Top Gig

Top Wine

KINNE - COMEDIAN

POKOLBIN ESTATE 2009 Belebula Sangiovese

A force to be reckoned with, Troy Kinne has gained the nations attention on his sketch comedy show KINNE (7Mate). His rapid fire one-liners and man-on-the-street pearls of wisdom have landed him a regular spot on the Fifi and Dave radio show and Network 10's Have You Been Paying Attention?

Great wines are being made on the sun-kissed isles of southern Europe and wine lovers and experts alike are fast discovering just how fantastic wines from countries like Italy truly are.

AUGUST 13

Troy has been performing standup for over 12 years - winning almost every young comic competition possible. He has performed in New York and LA, and been nominated for a 2015 Logie for Most Oustanding Newcomer.

Located on McDonalds Rd in Pokolbin, Pokolbin Estate Vineyard is one of the smallest boutique estates in the Hunter Valley where their exclusive wines are handmade and created from grapes grown on their Pokolbin Estate and Belebula Vineyards.

This is one show you won't want to miss! Be quick as tickets WILL sell out fast! See Kinne at Newcastle Panthers on Thursday August 13. For tickets head to www.newcastle.panthers.com.au

The popular Belebula Sangiovese does not disappoint.

This is an elegant, fruit driven style of wine that has a plethora of berry fruit and a touch of pepper and spice.

It is savoury with red fruits, vibrant tannins and good supporting acidity.

Top Movie

Top Service

TRAINWRECK

THE TEAM AT CREMA COFFEE GARAGE, BROADMEADOW

Produced by Judd Apatow (Superbad and Bridesmaids), Trainwreck is a comic look into how complicated it can be to grow up in the modern world.

The theory that "monogamy is just not realistic" has been drilled into Amy's (Amy Schumer) head by her ratbag father (Colin Quinn), since she was a little girl.

Now a magazine writer, older, uninhibited, and free, Amy finds herself in a rut.

Things start to change as she finds herself falling for the subject of an article she's writing - a successful, charming, sports doctor named Aaron Conners (Bill Hader). She starts to wonder if she, and others, might be onto something...

Trainwreck is in cinemas on August 6th.

It’s hard to know whether to nominate these guys for best service or best coffee – so we’ve gone with both! They repeatedly score 5 stars on Facebook (a difficult feat since we’re a picky bunch!).

“Exceptional service. Best coffee ever!! These people know what they're doing! Congrats to the team producing these beans. Yum!!”

“The only place to shop for quality machines, excellent coffee and service.

If you love your coffee you'll love these guys” Keep up the good work Crema Coffee Garage! If you’d like to nominate a local for great service drop us a line (and a sneaky pic if you can!) to getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

If you would like to contribute an idea or photo for our Top Five, simply send it to us at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au 6 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

INTOUCH GHOST WHISPERER SUZIE When did you first realise you had your psychic ability and how did this come about? When I was 7 years old, I was hit by a car and had a near-death experience. Whilst I lay on the ground unconscious, I saw before me, the vision of an angel – surrounded by a white glowing light and with the most amazing big, blue eyes. I remember speaking to her and saying I wanted to stay with her. She spoke directly to me and told me in a beautiful, soft voice that I had to go back. Months passed after the accident and I began having spirits visit me in my bedroom.

My mother took me to visit psychiatrists, who all informed her that I had an overactive imagination and that I would out grow it.

What was your reaction to this discovery at such an early age? At first it was very confusing. After the accident I started drawing pictures of angels all the time. I didn’t come from a particularly religious family, so my immediate family found it very unusual. At school I would faint a lot because I found the energies from the other children overwhelming. I was beginning to pick up and sense things about them. I started to share these things with individuals in the playground, but that led to being teased and picked on, cruelly, so I stopped and learnt to hide what I was experiencing.

HEART CONNECTION with the spirit world…

WORDS: Kerrie Howells International psychic medium, author, winner of the 2014 People's Choice Award from the International Psychic Association and self-described “ghost whisperer”, Suzie Price connects with her audiences through communicating with spirits.

Suzie has been working as a professional medium for over 15 years. It is said that the psychic messages that come to Suzie for her clients can be quite startling and revealing – surprising people with their accuracy and the specific details they can associate with.

This month we talk to Suzie about her unique skills as a medium, how they came about, what it means and what’s in store for the future.

What is and what does it mean to be a psychic medium?

Everything is made up of energy that vibrates at a certain frequency. When our physical body dies, our soul continues to live on and vibrate at a much higher rate than when we were in physical form. During spirit communication, I am able to link with the energy of the person in spirit and connect. It is through this ‘heart connection’ that the spirit allows me to connect with their loved ones.

Apart from doing private sessions with individual clients, what other activities are you involved in? This is a really exciting time for me right now… so much going on! Apart from my individual readings, I am doing live shows all over the country. I am recording an album of spiritual songs in the first week of August and I have begun working on a series of medium development courses, to help other mediums harness and nurture their talents. But what I am most passionate about is a course I will begin promoting soon about helping people to overcome and manage anxiety and depression – something very close to my heart.

With your larger and live audience readings - how does that work? The energy on the night is amazing! I use my gift to help people who have unfinished business with the dead.

Some people who come to the live shows have been through tragedies or have lost a loved one. I get a lot of people who have lost loved ones in car accidents or through suicide and I can bring their loved ones through from the other side. It is all random and it is the spirits who direct the course of the night.

finger marks around her neck and other areas of her body. I was able to identify a male spirit connected to the house – a man whom once lived in the house. I also felt the connection to a church close by for this man. This man was shown to me as a Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde type of character. A community man respected in his community, but at the same time a person who took advantage of the young charges in his care. It was a distressing house cleansing. The spirit was stubborn and aggressive. It took several intense visits to send him on his way.

The accuracy of your readings is widely recognised and acclaimed… With a seemingly valuable skill such as yours, are you ever involved in working with the police, other authorities or even families in finding the whereabouts of missing or deceased persons? The police are unable to use psychics or mediums to help investigations, unless there is concrete proof to further their investigations. This is understandable. I can help families and individuals seek answers and I can pass onto them what the spirits are trying to tell and show me. Sometimes these images are quite powerful and very detailed.

Are you working on any such projects now? I was contacted not long ago, by a close friend of a mother of young girl who went missing in the Belmont area in the late 70’s. I met with the mother, who was now quite elderly, for what was a very delicate and sensitive reading. From the moment I took her hand in mine, what came through to me was overwhelming.

The sense of Ivan Milat was strong. I was shown the bodies of three young women buried near Blacksmiths beach, including the daughter of the lady whose hand I was now holding. There were more details shared with the mother and the family has since passed this information onto the police. Hopefully more will come to light soon.

Your popularity is such that you are booked out for private readings years ahead, your live audience readings are growing in numbers and popularity, you have written a book, you won the 2014 People's Choice Award from the International Psychic Association. Where to from here?

It has been an incredible journey. I am forever grateful for where this journey has taken me. I am so excited to see where it keeps growing and what will unfold next for me. I will continue to do my live shows and readings. I would love to venture into television if the opportunity presents itself. I would also love to be the Australian version of John Edwards!

Which do you enjoy the most and why – individual sessions or live audience readings? The live shows deliver such an amazing energy. It’s an experience that gives me great joy Will you be doing any live audience readings in Newcastle and leaves me uplifted and on such a natural high for a week and Lake Macquarie anytime soon? I am on the road from following each show. It is such a wonderful feeling to be able to now until Christmas. My next local shows will be held at: connect with so many and also to help people who are maybe scared of death and help them to realise that there is indeed •Nelson Bay Bowling Club - 10 October life after death.

•Charlestown Bowling Club - 23 October Tickets available from my website The personal readings are very personal and there is a definite www.ghostwhisperersuzie.com.au ‘heart connection’ felt. We discuss very specific details and I can pick up a lot about their life and family through touch and discussion. The readings generally go for an hour, but I cannot help myself once I get on a roll and we usually go for longer.

I also heard that you are involved in what is termed ‘’house cleansing’’ – can you expand on what that means and what is involved? For whatever reason, sometimes spirits are confused and afraid to crossover – so I try to help them understand. Sometimes I find the spirits are connected to the house in some way. It is my job to find out who the spirit is, diffuse their confusion and ask them to move on.

A year ago, I was contacted by a distressed mother, whose young daughter was describing strange things happening in her bedroom, things that left the young 3 year old in a state of terror. What was even more alarming were the photos the mother showed me, where the young child had unexplained

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 7

COVER FEATURE STORY ROSS JAMES NOBLE REID

James Reid pictured to the right.

JAMES REID PHARMACIST ON A MISSION WORDS: Quentin von Essen IMAGES: Courtesy of Run Reid

He’s the pharmacist determined to make a difference to the lives of those less fortunate. Businessman, pharmacist, husband, father and sportsman, James Reid is also the founder and director of Run Reid an organisation set up to raise funds for Australian charities.

While James is passionate about his career as a pharmacist, he is just as committed to making a difference in this world and would love to spend his time equally between the two activities. I met with James over a cup of coffee to discuss what drives this man on a mission.

8 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Your accent is not entirely Australian, so where were you born and raised? I was born, raised and schooled in Lytham Saint Annes, Lancashire in North West England, but left for Australia in 2005 at the age of 27.

In the time you have lived in Australia, have you always lived in Newcastle – if not where else have you lived and worked?

I have lived in Newcastle for ten years – the entire time I have been in Australia. I arrived in Australia on a sponsored visa which required me to live and work in a non-major city.

Newcastle was the biggest city I could live and work in as per the terms of my visa. Incidentally it was my preferred choice.

What made you want to become a pharmacist? When I was 14 years old I attended a career fair and was told that I was 100% guaranteed to get a job if I studied to become a pharmacist. That was it – decision made! Later I also grew to like the idea of living within and working closely within a community in a job that was about helping people.

I like knowing and being in a position to help customers. I love the fact that they get to know us and even seek us out for help and advice. It’s a good feeling.

How did you get there? What roles have you had and what other career choices have you made leading up to being a Pharmacist and Director of Doc's Mega Save Chemist in Newcastle? I graduated from the University of Manchester in 2001 with a master’s degree in pharmacy. I then completed my internship in Sale, Manchester and was employed as a pharmacist at Tesco. After 6 months I was promoted to the role of pharmacy manager and later promoted to Regional Pharmacy Manager where I ran 55 pharmacies across Scotland and the north east of England.

At that time a friend and I were talking about travelling to Australia to attend the World Cup in 2003. Unfortunately he developed a brain tumour and soon passed away. I decided to go ahead and travel to Australia anyway with a 12 month work contract. That was 2005 and in 2006 I started working for the Docs group of pharmacies. In 2010 I purchased a share of the business.

With fellow business partners and co-owners Michael Connors and Tim Cush we then opened the Marketown business in 2011, merging two former Doc’s stores in Newcastle and

Charlestown. A significant risk at the time – but after a few years of hard work and some business savvy it is paying off.

In 2013 you were awarded The Young Business Executive (Age 18-35) award – how did that feel? Absolutely awesome!

For me this was a great albeit unexpected award to win and a huge testament to the amount of hard work my partners and staff have put in the months leading up to the award.

You were very active in sport at age 21 – then what happened? It was while still at University, young and fit, and living the dream as it were that I fell and broke my back – crushing my vertebrate while on a weekend snowboarding trip.

I was very badly injured and was told that I would be fortunate to ever walk again.

"For the next 12 months I wore a back brace and attended regular physiotherapy sessions in hospital before being given the all clear. In fact I will never forget the surgeons words which were that I "was an extremely lucky man so don’t waste it".

To my thinking I had been given a second chance and I decided to live my life according to those words and to not waste a moment. I decided then to do more for those less fortunate than me and for those who cannot necessarily fend for themselves and give back to the community.

Is this what initiated your involvement with raising funds and working with various charities? Yes it is. I am also a strong believer that ordinary people can do extraordinary things. As an ordinary person with a day job, a wife and family I decided that this would become my slogan. I now devote my spare time to keeping myself fit, encouraging others to keep fit while at the same time raising money for charity.

I now invest my time in a different charity every year – raising awareness for that charity and creating events to raise money at the same time. I tend to choose non-mainsteam charities and charities such as Ronald McDonald House are very close to my heart.

COVER STORY JAMES REID receives at least $150,000. It does not have to be limited to that amount as we can raise as much money as we want.

Considering you have to do all the hard work, do you get to know how the money is used? I can only speak for our charity and in our case I am personally thrilled to learn that all funds will be going to the Ronald McDonald Family Room which will be built within the extended Neo Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at John Hunter Hospital.

How are you aiming to raise the money? In my case I am looking for a sleeve sponsor for all my clothing that will be worn on the show which is broadcast by Channel 7. This can be in the form of donation or sponsorship.

I also have two planned events. The first is being held on the 28th of August and will be a comedy lunch event involving the world renown comedian Sam McCool. It’s a lunchtime gig with beer and food and a raffle raising money for the show.

Then on the 12th of September there will be a degustation dinner at the Crown and Anchor involving two 2 hat chefs providing a 5 course meal with matching wines provided

by Wine Selectors. Tickets will be on sale soon.

So if anyone is interested in making a tax deductable donation or is interested in being a sponsor for the Life Changing Adventures show please contact us at www.runreid.com.au I also read somewhere that you ran across the Sahara for charity – what was that about? In 2013 myself and a few friends decided to do something extraordinary and raise funds for Ronald MacDonald House at the same time.

"We ended up raising $30,000 for Ronald McDonald House by completing the 250-kilometre Marathon de Sable, a multi-stage race across the Sahara desert and also considered to be the world’s toughest endurance race."

So how then did Run Reid eventuate? After winning the Young Business Executive Award, I realised there was an opportunity to raise money on an ongoing basis. In other words, rather than doing just one major event a year, we could be a little more ambitious and include a number of minor events throughout the year - and all for the purpose of raising funds for charity.

To do this, the company Run Reid was established which would be the platform to support those charities that needed help. Run Reid is now more than just me.

What was your first Run Reid Project? Soon after Run Reid was established, I became aware of "Save Our Sons" – a Sydney based charity founded by train driver Elie Eid, whose son has Duchenne muscular Dystrophy (DMD) - a deadly degenerative disease which affects only boys and attacks the muscle tissue of its victims who usually do not live beyond 20.

My heart went out to this extraordinary family and in April this year, myself and three friends, ran 350 kilometres from Newcastle to Sydney while pushing a pram to raise awareness and funds to have clinical trials into DMD in Australia. A second group then took over for the second leg and pushed the pram to Canberra where they presented a petition to the Government to start trials for DMD in Australia. I believe at that stage our efforts had raised approximately $150,000 and is still ongoing with another fund raising event planned for this month.

The situation is that there are clinical trials taking place in the USA and United Kingdom and Save Our Sons is aiming to raise $3.5million towards funding clinic trials in Australia.

You and your wife Mary have a young baby boy... Does this fact really drive the reality and the cruelty of this disease to you? Definitely! As a father of a 4 month old son, it has all become extremely relevant to me. Especially when it comes to Save Our Sons as DMD affects only boys 99% of the time and the reality is that it is a death sentence until we can find a cure for it. Also, it is only discovered at around the two year old mark. I can really feel Elie Eid’s anguish and frustration that there are currently no clinical trials for DMD in Australia. He has dedicated his life to his son and helping to find a cure. To do what he is doing is just so admirable, but I get where he gets his motivation.

What other projects are you involved in? I will soon be participating in the new television series "Life Changing Adventures" hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter which started filming in April, and will be going to air later this year on Channel 7.

The show takes 10 ordinary people from four different states and puts them through their paces, involving physically demanding challenges to raise money for charity. The NSW team has Ronald McDonald House as their nominated charity – hence my involvement.

Are any other Novocastrians involved in this television series? Yes - I believe that at least 3 other candidates are from Newcastle - I think one works in real estate, one is a teacher and the other works for McDonalds. The others making up the ten are from all over NSW – including the Central Coast, Foster, Wollongong and Tamworth.

Are there any other "big hairy audacious goals" on the horizon? Yes we have one ultimate goal – the "monster" of all goals and that is to run coast to coast across Australia. A challenge that will involve a series of groups running 100km stages. I am very fortunate to be passionate about what I do.

I love my job as a pharmacist and I love the fact that through Run Reid we are able to make a difference. The perfect situation for me would to be able to spend my time equally between the two.

Let’s call this my self-fulfilling prophecy.

James Reid pictured to the right.

Sounds Interesting and nothing like we have seen on TV before. Is this series filmed at Australian destinations only?

The challenges can take place anywhere in the world – all we know is that we will get picked up on the day and taken somewhere unknown to all of us. It’s supposed to be both mentally and physically challenging but also fun. The South Australian team have already been filmed with their challenges taking place in Queensland and I believe their charity is CanDo4Kids. The aim is to encourage people to work together to accomplish these tasks. The more people that finish the challenges, the more money is raised. I believe there is a New Zealand challenge included in the series.

How does the fund raising work and just how do the nominated charities benefit? There are 4 episodes featuring teams from 4 states with each team fielding 10 contestants.

Each state nominates their chosen charity. Each contestant then needs to raise at least $15,000 to participate in the show. This money can be raised in any way they choose and is a tax deductable donation that goes directly to the charity. Regardless of what happens on the show, the charity www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 9

What’s on?

SATURDAY, AUGUST 1

Sydney 6; Hinders, Lewers, Plates Abstract artists, friends, partners, siblings, 1940s-1970s. Showing until August 2, Newcastle Regional Art Gallery.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year Photographic Exhibition Until August 8. Newcastle Region Library.

►COMING

UP

SATURDAY 1ST Nova & the Experience The Small Ballroom Damn Good Divas Featuring Monique Montez & Danielle Barnes, Belmont 16's WEDNESDAY 5TH Elton Jack Wests New Lambton THURSDAY 6TH Macquarie College Showcase Lizottes, Lambton Troy Cassar-Daley Freedom Ride Tour Nelson Bay Diggers

Dancing at Lughnasa Until August 8. Newcastle Theatre Company, Lambton.

Soup A quirky, off-centre, unique, evening of tasty fare with a little something for everyone's taste. And like any good soup, there's always an unexpected ingredient in the pot, a flavour that's hard to identify, a pinch of something different... The Royal Exchange Hybrid Performing Arts Centre, Newcastle.

SUNDAY 9TH Grimethorpe Colliery Band City Hall WEDNESDAY 12TH Gang of Youths The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle THURSDAY 14TH Maids The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle Dragon - Body and the Beat 30th Anniversary Nelson Bay Diggers FRIDAY 15TH Dragon - Body and the Beat 30th Anniversary Belmont 16's WEDNESDAY 19TH Chelsea Grin The Small Ballroom FRIDAY 21ST Hellions The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle SATURDAY 22ND Original Sin The INXS Show Belmont 16's WEDNESDAY 26TH Elvis meets the Beatles Civic Theatre FRIDAY 28TH Xavier Rudd & the United Nations Civic Theatre, Newcastle Jebediah The Cambridge Hotel SATURDAY 29TH Russell Morris Belmont 16's Musicaviva Paul Lewis Newcastle University Conservatorium Oh Mercy The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle Safia The Small Ballroom SUNDAY 30TH World Vision Presents Naturally 7 Civic Theatre Mary Chapin Carpenter Acoustic World Tour Wests New Lambton

10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Newcastle Antiques & Vintage Fair Some of the most reputable antique dealers from across Australia will be there displaying all manner of collectables - from rare and unique items hundreds of years old, to vintage items from a few decades ago that seem to have come back in style. Newcastle Showground Exhibition Centre. $10 Adults, $8 Pensioners. Friday 7th (night)—Sunday 9th.

Annual Hunter Knit-in 9.30am - 3.30pm Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery.

7 AUG

Zingara Dance of Life Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

Mitchell Coombes Australia’s most trusted psychic medium. Newcastle Panthers. Tickets at www.newcastle.panthers.com.au

8 AUG

UNTIL 30 AUG

Dungog Dash & Dawdle The Great Cross-Country Fun Run. 4 Races - Half Marathon, Dash 12km, Dawdle 6km, Pooch & Pram. Face Painting, Jumping Castle, Sausage Sizzle. www.dins.org.au Swing Over the Pacific Newcastle University Choir will be practising their victory rolls and toning up their jitterbugs ready for this exuberant celebration of the end of World War 2 in the Pacific. Tickets available at MacLean’s Booksellers Hamilton, Music Solutions Warners Bay (cash only), online www.stickytickets.com.au/27122 or by calling 4954 8781. 2pm, University of Newcastle Great Hall.

Lake Macquarie Wellness Festival Try free and low cost activities to improve your wellbeing! Grab something to eat, browse the many stalls, connect with your body, mind and community! 1pm - 4pm, Valentine Public School, Tallawalla Road, Valentine.

Gold coin entry.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5

Mary Poppins Brilliantly adapted from the beloved books by Australia's own P.J Travers and directed by multi-CONDA winning Julie Black, this is a production which is sure to delight the entire family! 5—15 August. Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 21

The Newcastle Time Walk – stroll back through 300 million years 10am to 1pm. For National Science Week, geologists will lead the public on a 6km walk along Newcastle foreshore, from Merewether to Nobbys Head, and explain the numerous spectacular geological features. For information call 4974 1400.

MONDAY, AUGUST 24

Winter Sleepers German Film The Royal Exchange Hybrid Performing Arts Centre, Newcastle.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 25

Science & Engineering Challenge State Finals 25—27 August. The Forum, University of Newcastle.

Newcastle Regional Art Gallery Different Realities Peter Boggs, Distillation: The Art of Brett McMahon, Interior Lives: From the Collection. All showing until August 30.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 2

THURSDAY, AUGUST 20

Akmal Lost Movies, Sketch, Stand-Up, TV, radio and talk-show host, known for his incredible ability to deal with hot topics in a hilarious and slightly offensive way, Akmal is one of Australia's most respected and accomplished comics. 20—22 August, Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 23

SATURDAY, AUGUST 8

Newcastle Museum War at Sea: Australian Navy in WW1 until 16 August, Broughton Island: The Art of Adventure until 23 August, Our Community, Your University until 23 August.

The Australian Ballet Presents The Dancers Company 2015 This stunning classical triple bill features Swan Lake Act III, the most beloved ballet of all time, tutu spectacular Paquita and the laughter-inducing Rimbombo. 18—19 August. Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

Hamlet by Bell Shakespeare 21—22 August. Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery Lola Greeno: Cultural Jewels, After your collection and 1233 ABC Newcastle Portrait Prize (2014 winner Laura Wickham's 'Anne and the Dogs' pictured below).

Both showing until August 30.

FRIDAY 7TH Troy Cassar-Daley Freedom Ride Tour Belmont 16's SATURDAY 8TH The BellRays Rockpocalyse Make-up Tour The Small Ballroom Joel Fletcher The Argyle House Tony Lovato (MEST) The Cambridge Hotel, Newcastle

FRIDAY, AUGUST 7

THURSDAY, AUGUST 27

Soame Chopra The Royal Exchange Hybrid Performing Arts Centre, Newcastle.

SUNDAY, AUGUST 9

Pooch Picnic Pepper Tree Wines, Hunter Valley. Join Dr Katrina and the Wonderdogs! Gold coin entry to go towards the Guide Dogs NSW/ACT. 10.30am 3.30pm.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 11

Dylan Thomas: Return Journey 11—12 August.

Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 13

Kinne A comedic force to be reckoned with.

Newcastle Panthers. Tickets at moshtix.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 15

Maitland Aroma: Coffee & Chocolate Festival 15—16 August, Riverside Carpark, Maitland.

Newcastle Regional Art Gallery John Kaldor Family Collection Artist Room #2 - Bill Viola (Videographer), The Roland Pope Donation 70th Anniversary Exhibition. Both until November 1.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 18

FRIDAY, AUGUST 28

Newcastle Health, Harmony and Soul Festival 28—30 August. Health, wellbeing and spirituality exhibitors, the Popular Psychic Reader's room, plus Leaders and specialists who come together at Health Harmony Soul to share their knowledge, products and services. Newcastle Exhibition Centre.

Tickets from $12. Multi-event/day passes available.

Newcastle Food & Wine Expo 28—30 August. See and learn the latest industry tips, ignite your taste buds with the latest food & wine products and simply indulge yourself with a fantastic day out!

Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Tickets from $20.

Multi-event/day passes available.

Newcastle Jazz Festival 28—30 August. More than 40 bands and over 200 musicians will take part playing Blues, Jazz Caberet and Big Band music.

The venue will take on a carnival atmosphere with a 'New Orleans' area, bars, bistro and specialty food outlets open over the weekend. Tickets start from $15. Newcastle Jockey Club.

2 8 - 3 0 AUG

National Science Week Presentation: Making Waves – The Science of Light The Hunter Earth Sciences Discussion Group (HEDG) are providing a series of free public talks on a range geological topics throughout the year, sponsored and hosted by Newcastle Museum, 6.30pm.

Do you have a local event or gig coming up? Email us today at getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au

What’s on?

MONDAY, AUGUST 29

Variety of Chefs 2015 City Hall. Your taste buds will be taken around the world in this charity event of the year, with an incredible four course dinner menu designed by celebrity Chef Peter Kuruvita and renowned Newcastle/ Hunter Valley Chefs Lesley Taylor, Troy Rhoades-Brown and Chris Thornton. The meals will be matched with some of Australia’s finest wines. Tickets at Ticketek.

Live & Cookin’ 31 Morehead Street, Lambton FULLY LICENSED

Doors open from 6pm

SUNDAY, AUGUST 30

Maitland Art Bazaar 10am - 3pm Maitland Regional Art Gallery.

AUGUST

Newcastle Permanent - Lake Macquarie Running Festival information at www.lakemacrunning.com

RICHARD CLAPTON Saturday 1

30 AUG

A lazy lunch with...

THE BLACK SORROWS COMING UP IN SEPTEMBER WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 Youth Rockin' the Black Dog Heat 1 A music competition designed to raise awareness of youth mental health issues among young people in the Hunter and surrounding regions. Lizottes, Lambton Scott Bradlee’s Postmodern Jukebox An uncanny ability to take a contemporary pop hit and reincarnate it into a superb, vintage-flavoured songbook standard from the last century! Panthers, Newcastle.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 Charleys Aunt Playhouse Theatre, Newcastle. 4—12 Sep. Tickets at Ticketek.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

Pier Pressure Nobbys Lighthouse. Black Box & Co Productions present some of the biggest production and sound Newcastle has seen in a long time.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6 Blood, Sweat and Tears The iconic American jazz-rock band from the late 60s and 70s return to Australia!

Wests New Lambton.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11 Lower Hunter Urban Design Awards Great Gatsby 2015 Awards Gala Dinner. The Awards recognise and reward outstanding urban design in building, landscape and public open space. This is the 39th year of the awards, which is an ongoing initiative celebrating excellence in urban design. www.lhuda.com.au/ calendar/tickets/ SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Swan Lake The Imperial Russian Ballet Company is coming to Civic Theatre, Newcastle. Tickets at Ticketek.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 NightAttack Dress up in fluro or glow in the dark attire and go through the military inspired obstacle course lit with UV, strobes and coloured spot lighting, smoke machines and the tenacity of a True Grit course!

The 5km course at Hunter Stadium incorporates 17 obstacles. It will be held on 3 consecutive nights - from Wednesday September 16 to Friday September 18, 6pm until 9pm. For more information and tickets visit www.nightattack.com.au

The Black Sorrows continue to be one of Australia's most successful touring bands. They have played all around Australia and all over the world. In 1990 "The Sorrows" won the ARIA Award for Best Band. The Black Sorrows albums Hold On To Me (1988), Harley and Rose (1990) and their greatest hits compilation The Chosen Ones (1993) each amassed triple platinum sales with the bands other releases collecting gold and platinum sales.

Any examination of The Black Sorrows inevitably comes down to one person.

Joe Camilleri (singer, songwriter, saxophonist, producer and the brains behind The Black Sorrows) is one of the most genuinely talented figures in Australian music. In 2014, with 45 albums under his belt, Joe Camilleri celebrated a whopping 50 years in the music business and he's showing no signs of slowing down!

In the award winning documentary of his life in music, Joe Camilleri: Australia’s Maltese Falcon, Jane Clifton described Joe as “indefatigable”. It is his seemingly tireless drive to continually perform and record quality music that has rewarded him legendary status and well-deserved longevity in the music industry.

The irrepressible Joe Camilleri, writer of milestone anthems such as, Hold On To Me, Harley and Rose, Chained To The Wheel, The Crack Up, So Young, Hit And Run, Shape Im In and Never Let Me Go, leads The Black Sorrows from the front.

Whether it be leading one of his band incarnations - Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons, The Black Sorrows, The Revelators and Bakelite Radio as creative director & producer of his Jazzhead label - or as owner and producer at his own Woodstock Studios, this ARIA Hall of Famer, Joe Camilleri, is one of the most committed and successful musicians this country has ever produced - a man who loves and lives music.

We welcome The Black Sorrows to Lizotte's Newcastle for a Lazy Sunday Lunch on Sunday September 27th. For ticket sales and more information visit Newcastle.lizottes.com.au/live

WIN WIN WIN! FOR YOU AND 3 FRIENDS!!

Feel like a Lazy Sunday Lunch with The Black Sorrows? Thanks to Lizotte's Newcastle and intouch magazine we have showonly tickets for yourself and 3 friends to give away! See The Sorrows in style from your own private suite - the Royal Suite is the perfect spot for small groups to enjoy a relaxed concert experience.

HOW TO ENTER Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au and click on the "Black Sorrows Tickets" button.

Register to receive intouch magazine to your inbox every month (free of course!) and tell us what your favourite Sorrows track is and why. The winner will be contacted by email on August 31st and announced on our facebook page. It's that easy!

DIRE STRAITS - GREATEST HITS TRIBUTE Saturday 8 CHASIN THE TRAIN Sunday 9

BENJALU Fundraiser for Ronald Mcdonald House Thursday 13

CHRISTINE ANU Friday 14

THE BADLOVES Saturday 15

SUNNY COWGIRLS Sunday 16

SARAH MCLEOD Friday 21

RUMOURS - A TRIBUTE TO FLEETWOOD MAC Saturday 22 BELLA VOCE - THE REMATCH Friday 28

JEFF LANG Saturday 29

VIVA LAS VEGAS - LIVE SHOW, MOVIE & LUNCH Sunday 30

SEPTEMBER YOUTH ROCKIN THE BLACK DOG HEAT 1 Wednesday 2

DAVE GRANEY ‘N’ THE CORAL SNAKES Saturday 5

LAZY LUNCH WITH VINCE JONES Sunday 6

MORE SHOWS added daily.

LIVE SHOWS starting from

$65 (including dinner)

BOOK ONLINE NOW + See who else is coming to dinner...

lizottes.com.au or PH 4956 2066 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 11

WHAT’S ON AUGUST

An extraordinary encounter with a literary giant Over 80,000 people worldwide have enjoyed this critically acclaimed production that has included sell-out seasons at London’s Lyric Hammersmith, Off Broadway, Edinburgh and The British Library. Heralded by critics worldwide as a “lyrical tour-de-force” this is your chance to experience Bob Kingdom’s electrifying performance as he brings Dylan Thomas’ last lecture tour to life in Anthony Hopkins’ celebrated directorial debut.

Dylan Thomas was born in Wales in 1914 and died in New York in 1953 at the age of 39. Towards the end of his life, he toured America performing his works before sell-out audiences across the country.

Bob Kingdom is one of the UK's most respected writers and performers.

Playing a man who wrestled with the psychological conflict between creative talent and self-destructive impulse, Bob Kingdom’s remarkable portrayal of this bardic countryman is tangibly heartfelt and authentic. Audiences have sworn it was the poet himself on stage. Oscar-winner Anthony Hopkins’ subtle direction brings both performer and audience together in appreciation of the beauty, the humour, the passion and the wit of this writer.

"Working with him has been a revelation, because I realise how passionately he feels and identifies with Thomas. Bob Kingdom not only identifies with Dylan Thomas but sometimes, and often, the two personalities seem to merge. It is a remarkable performance." - Anthony Hopkins (Director) "Bob Kingdom's performances and plays are a winning formula that strike gold every time: legendary, entertaining and not to be missed,"- BBC.

“I could have listened to his spellbinding, word wizardry for hours” - The Times (UK) The Civic Theatre Newcastle, in association with Merrigong Theatre Company and Richard Jordan Productions presents Dylan Thomas: Return Journey on Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th August.

For more information and tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Sarah McLeod: Up-close and personal Sarah McLeod is best known as being the dynamic frontwoman and guitarist of 90's blistering rock band THE SUPERJESUS. Complete with smoky voice, big riffs and boundless energy, there's no denying that McLeod is Australia's pinnacle rock chick.

After re-forming The Superjesus last year to tour nationally with Canadian rockers The Tea Party, and recently finishing up sold out shows around the country with The Baby Animals.

The Superjesus are back with a vengeance and with a new single The Setting Sun, there is also a spring in their step.

The Setting Sun is the first release from the Superjesus in 12 years and, based on the reaction of sell out crowds around the country, they are thrilled to have them back. People who have been to Sarah's solo shows might recognise the single. It's a song that has been kicking around in Sarah's solo set for a number of years but when she sent the song to her Superjesus band-mate (Tim) he changed it up and it's taken on a whole new life.

One of the many reasons Sarah is such a joy to watch on stage, aside from her sensational voice and passionate performance, is that

CRAFTY INSPIRATION TAKES OVER NEWCASTLE

with the 2015 Stitches & Craft Show One of the nation’s most loved traveling craft shows, the Stitches & Craft Show, is heading to Newcastle for a huge event from the 13th to the 16th of August at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Broadmeadow.

The Show will include expert retailers, hands-on classes, displays of textile art, educational workshops, the latest products, guest artist displays, DIY ideas and much more.

Attendees can learn from the experts with a fantastic range of tutorials and workshops on offer including jewellery making, quilting techniques, sewing, weaving, scrapbooking, card making and embroidery. The shows will also feature drop-in style education zones with classes for the novice crafter to those looking for an update on the latest techniques and products.

12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Guest artists Fiona Hammond and Christine Donehue will showcase their inspirational displays of work and discuss the latest techniques for beading, textile art and paper quilling at their display areas within the show.

With something for every craft lover, or those brand-new to the craft craze, The Stitches & Craft Show will be sure to delight and inspire audiences both young and old!

WHEN Thursday 13 to Sunday 16 August, 2015 TIME 10am to 4.30pm WHERE Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Broadmeadow TICKETS Adults $15; Seniors Card Holders $14; Age and Disability Pensioners $13; Children (5 to 16 years) $7; Children under 5 Free. VIP and multi-day tickets available. Tickets available via www.craftevents.com.au or on the door.

it's clear she is a real music fan. When asked about the roots of her musical taste, Sarah says “I grew up on my parent’s old vinyl records. I was obsessed with The Beatles early work. When I found out that they were the backing band for Tony Sheridan's 'My Bonnie' I played this track to death, and would sing it to anyone that would listen - especially my Aunty Bonnie!"

"This style of music has always been my foundation. In the 90’s I pushed it very firmly aside to focus on my ‘grunge’ phase. I never confessed to anyone that my tastes were living in the past, but now I feel I have come full circle, and it’s ok for me just to write what comes naturally."

On August 21, you can expect Sarah McLeod to turn it down a notch (well slightly), when the vivacious singer/songwriter hits the stage at Lizotte's Newcastle to perform a solo up-close and personal show with special guest, KJ. Suze DeMarchi is also headed to Lizotte's (on October 2nd). This will be her first solo date in the country to release her new album "Home" and is most definitely one for the diaries. For more information and tickets to both shows visit www.lizottes.com.au

WHAT’S ON TROY CASSAR-DALEY

CIVIC THEATRE JULY 18

Between yourself and Laurel your kids obviously have music in their blood… can you see a future in music for either of them? What advice would you give to them should they decide to follow in your footsteps? Be prepared to work very hard and never take no for an answer! It's a different world now with modern technology and social media but you still have to work hard, nothing replaces that!

You are the ambassador for Australian Hearing and have written a song, inspired by those who are hearing for the first time. How did this association come about?

My association with Australian Hearing came about a couple of years ago after meeting the wonderful Paul Brant. He had booked me for an Indigenous awards night which was associated with Australian Hearing. We spoke at length about the gaps in our remote communities having access to services and I also said I would like to become more involved if I could help raise awareness about hearing loss with my profile or music. It's since grown into a wonderful partnership that I am proud to be an ambassador for.

You’ve just released your new album “Freedom Ride” – tell us a bit about the album - where did the inspiration come from?

I wanted to paint a picture of Australia and its diverse people and landscapes through song. Picking stories and characters to write about was a challenge and very rewarding in the end.

FREEDOM RIDING with Troy Cassar-Daley Troy Cassar-Daley has a reputation amongst his peers in the Australian music industry as being the most loved and respected singer and songwriter in country music.

With a career that has spanned over 20 years, Troy has been awarded numerous accolades including 4 ARIA Awards, 26 Golden Guitar Awards, 2 APRA Country Song of The Year Awards, 9 Deadlys and 4 CMAA Entertainer of The Year Awards. Troy has sold in excess of half a million albums and has regularly received gold and platinum records throughout his career.

This month sees Troy embark on his National Freedom Ride tour across Australia to celebrate the release of his 9th solo studio album Freedom Ride, released earlier this year. We sat down with Troy to find out a little about his life and what we can expect from his upcoming shows.

So your Dad is Maltese and your Mum Aboriginal – that’s an interesting blend of cultures. What parts have you inherited from each culture? My love of cooking from my Maltese side and my spirituality from my indigenous side.... the music comes from both.

What is your best childhood memory? In what way (if any) did your childhood prepare you for life in the music industry? Some of my favourite childhood memories were being a part of our annual guitar concerts with my old teacher Leonie Hayes. These concerts helped me prepare as a musician to deal with nerves. There was always so much laughter backstage I will never forget it.

Who have been the biggest influences in your life – both personally and musically? In what ways have they changed who you are? My mum and dad have been the biggest influence on my life as well as my Uncles and Aunties on

both sides, and also Peter and Val White in Tamworth who were also great role models and very encouraging people. My family never said I couldn't do it when it came to music and are always great supporters.

Where did your love of Country Music come from? How would you describe Country Music to the unofficiated? My love of country music came from my mum and dad and to explain what country music means to me would be to say it is music of the people, down to earth real stories about real people.

How old were you when you first started performing? What were those first performances like? I started performing at the age of 10 and my leg used to shake with nerves every time I stood on stage to sing in front of people, even in front of family and friends. I was very very affected by nerves.

So at only 18 you have a win at Star Quest in Tamworth and a chance meeting with the legendary Brian Young – “Youngie” which leads to your first (and very lengthy) tour.

Can you tell our readers a bit about this tour? Signing up for the Brian Young show was my first real big adventure. The tour was nine months long and it covered most of Australia.

We touched on every state and territory, playing country music everywhere we went. It taught me quite a few things, humility was the main lesson. I learned how to put up the banner straight as well... that was a very important part of the Brian Young show .... it was a work of art! I found myself quite overwhelmed spiritually by visiting places like Uluru. The many indigenous communities we visited were fantastic to play to and something I will never forget!

What can we expect to see onstage in your upcoming concerts here? This has been one of the warmest and variety filled shows I have brought out on the road, I'm really proud of how our crew gives 150% each night and people walk away smiling which makes me very happy.

You can catch Troy live when he performs at Nelson Bay Diggers on Thursday 6th August or on Friday August 7th at Belmont 16 Footers.

We have 5 “Freedom Ride” CD’s to give away!

To win, visit our GIVEAWAYS page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au. Register to receive intouch magazine to your inbox each month and tell us why you think Troy is such a great ambassador for Country Music in Australia. Good Luck!

A tour with Youngie has been the career starter for some of our finest Country Music singers, including yourself - what role did Youngie play in your early career?

What did you learn from this first tour with Youngie that has stayed with you throughout your career? Brian's tour was my first real one and my longest time away from home, I went away a boy and came home a young man for sure. I learned things I still use in my show to this day.

Let’s fast-forward to today. Married to the lovely Laurel Edwards, 2 gorgeous kids – in what way has having your own family influenced your music? My family are the centre of my universe and my music always reflects some of the stages our family are at. I'm so proud of them, it's hard not to write songs about them. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 13

WHAT’S ON AUGUST IMAGES: NBN

their '97 debut and fan favourite, Slightly Odway, in its blissful, ballistic entirety.

The production features all the best-loved songs from the movie including Chim-Chim-Cheree, A Spoonful of Sugar, Jolly Holiday, Step In Time, Feed The Birds and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious and new classics like Practically Perfect and Anything Can Happen. Mary Poppins is a musical that will charm the whole family.

The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family.

Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane and Michael aren’t the only ones upon whom she has a profound effect. Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that “anything can happen if you let it.”

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious

MARY POPPINS TAKES THE STAGE! Metropolitan Players, the producers of “The Phantom of The Opera” and “Hairspray” invite you to let your imagination take flight as you step into the magical world of Mary Poppins.

Brilliantly adapted from the beloved books by Australia’s own P.L. Travers and the classic 1964 Walt Disney film, Mary Poppins features an impeccable local cast with spectacular sets and costumes and is directed by the very experienced Julie Black.

This is the 33rd year that Julie has been directing for Metropolitan Players, having directed every production (except one) since 1983.

Mary Poppins is the seventh production for Metropolitan Players to be staged at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre and with an amazing swag of CONDA Awards and nominations behind them, it’s sure to be another winner. Last year’s production of Hairspray received a record 17 CONDA nominations and won 6 CONDAs for Musical, Director, Musical Director, Lead Actor in a Musical, Lead Actress in a Musical and Supporting Actress.

No pressure Julie – but we’re expecting big things!

Mary Poppins has dazzled millions of people around the globe and now it is your chance to experience the magic right here in Newcastle.

Mary Poppins will play at Newcastle’s Civic Theatre from August 5th to August 15th.

For more information and tickets visit www.ticketek.com.au

THE DRONES celebrate 10 year anniversary with national tour...

"What a wonderful Twentieth Anniversary tour we've had. Thank you to everyone who made our shows so incredibly special. It has honestly been one of the true highlights of our twenty years as a band. We can't thank you all enough. In fact we are all a little overwhelmed!!!

We can't wait for August when we'll hit the highways to do it all again with our cherished regional fans."

JEBEDIAH

extend their 20th Anniversary celebrations into regional areas

“The energy and fandom is still alive and well."

"… from the softer Leaving Home to the visceral Jerks of Attention, Kevin Mitchell’s yelling, screaming and serenading carries us all through our angst and joy just like the first time.

Vanessa Thornton swaps her beer for coconut water, but the bass is still the They’ve just completed a hugely same, and she spends most of both successful sold out metro city run, sets jumping and smiling. Solos and sending fans into a frenzy celebrating improv by Chris Daymond on guitar and their 20th Anniversary and now Perth’s finest crowd pleasers JEBEDIAH will tour the drumming of Brett Mitchell bring maturity to the sound that can only key regional centres with shows taking come with two decades of experience.” place throughout August.

- The Music Expect nothing short of a FUNtastic You can catch Jebadiah at The set filled with infectious singalongs Cambridge Hotel on Friday 28th and beaming grins from both band and August. For tickets visit fans as Kevin Mitchell, Chris Daymond, www.thecambridgehotel.com.au Vanessa Thornton and Brett Mitchell deliver a two hour plus set in two halves: beloved classics and surprises first, then

In 2005 a little known band from Melbourne released what was to become one of the most critically acclaimed, celebrated and talked about Australian albums of modern times. Wait Long By The River And The Bodies Of Your Enemies Float By catapulted The Drones into the consciousness of mainstream music critics both here and overseas, and cemented what fans of the band already knew.

In May this year, to celebrate the 10th year anniversary of it’s release, the band played a special one off show at the Sydney Opera House, for Vivid Live, showcasing tracks from Wait Long, as well as a few new tunes thrown in for good measure. The show was met with a vigorous response, two standing ovations, and a feeling that more people might want to experience it, so the band are taking it to fans around Australia this August and September.

Wait Long By The River And The Bodies Of Your Enemies Float By will be released on deluxe double 180g vinyl LP with a digital download and it’s own unreleased live album (you can pre order your copy now from www.thedrones.com.au). This is the first time the album has ever been released on vinyl.

14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

The secret to JEBEDIAH’s success is simply a long lasting friendship in which the chemistry remains and each member’s sincere desire and intent to deliver a corker of a show, each and every time they hit the stage. This is evident in the feedback from their recent shows.

“Let the record show that there is only one band that can open their set with a song that was voted by a group of their peers as the greatest Australian song of all time... That band, ladies and gentlemen, is The Drones.”

- Music Feeds Joining The Drones will be Melbourne doom punk band Batpiss, whose recent film clip for The Store will give you nightmares for days!

Throughout 2015, as well as releasing their brand new seventh studio album, The Drones will be reissuing their entire back catalogue through their own label, TFS Records.

You can catch The Drones at The Small Ballroom on Friday 28th August. For tickets visit www.oztix.com

WHAT’S ON THE DANCERS COMPANY

graduating students from The Australian Ballet School, with guest appearances by artists from The Australian Ballet.

This stunning triple bill demonstrates the diversity of classical ballet, from the sumptuous costumes and pristine pointe work of Swan Lake Act III and Paquita, to the hilarity and athleticism of Rimbombo.

Leading the cast in Swan Lake and Paquita are four company dancers from The Australian Ballet, including Coryphées Benedicte Bemet, Valerie Tereshchenko and Cristiano Martino, and Corps de Ballet member Brodie James.

Telstra’s Chief Financial Officer Warwick Bray says the company’s 30-year partnership with The Australian Ballet aims to connect more Australians with the joys of ballet.

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET Experience world-class ballet live on stage with The Dancers Company, The Australian Ballet’s regional touring program.

With the support of Principal Partner Telstra, The Australian Ballet’s regional touring arm will perform 25 shows in 12 venues, including Newcastle’s Civic Theatre on Tuesday 18th and Wednesday 19th of August.

Now in its 25th year, The Dancers Company continues to bring the magical experience of ballet to communities around the country, showcasing the artistry and technical skills of

A Rare Insight In addition to the on-stage performances, the tour will give budding dancers and enthusiasts a look behind the curtain and classes with some of the dancers.

The Dancers’ Class on Stage gives audiences the opportunity to watch the company as they are guided through their daily class by a member of the artistic staff. It’s a chance to get an insight into the working life of a touring dancer and is followed by a Q&A session with dancers and staff.

To be held at the Civic Theatre 11.30am – 12.30pm, Wednesday 19th August. Tickets are $15.00

“Telstra is incredibly proud to be supporting The Australian Ballet’s regional touring arm which provides more opportunities for Australians in regional centres to experience live, worldclass ballet right on their doorstep,” he said.

About the Ballet Swan Lake is undeniably the most beloved ballet of all time.

This traditional version of Act III, the dramatic ballroom scene, features the famous Black Swan pas de deux.

The beautiful tutu spectacular Paquita is one of the cornerstones of traditional classical ballet and the perfect opportunity to see the dancers’ sparkling technique on display.

Rimbombo, Italian for ‘rumble’, reveals the athleticism of the male dancers. Since its premiere season in 2013, it has inspired rapturous applause and laughter in audiences of all ages.

A spectacular ballet experience for the whole family – book early to avoid missing out! For more information and tickets visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

WHAT’S ON CHRISTINE ANU in my life is something for them to show and pass on. It is also driven by sharing of my culture to the rest of the world. The more I do, the more I want them to be involved. As they grew up, they inspired me and still do.

It’s now 20 years since your first album debuted… but your professional career started way before that. When and how did you get your first big break? My first break was joining a band. I never envisaged it would happen and I had no idea when or how that would happen but when it did, I felt as If I was moving in the direction I wanted my career to take. Until then I was a graduating dance student of 5 years. To join a band with someone who gave me my signature song, and then to join the same label and same management team felt wonderful. It was all the right place and right time – it was 1992.

In 1993, I released Last Train to Heaven which was my first single (with Paul Kelly) and that was my first ARIA nomination as Debut Artist. After that there was a nomination every year for the next few years. APRA song of the year (1994) and when the album Stylin' Up did get released (1995) there were four singles released from it so I toured it for 2 years. So many doors opened after that – across musical theatre, television and movies. So there was a six-year break between first and second album, where I was laying down foundations for my future career.

REMINISCING WITH Christine Anu

great memories that are worthy of a book. Most of them involve my mum – stories with my mum, fishing with my mum, cooking with my mum. My favorite childhood memories are around Christmas time, learning the cultural dances and performing them at special occasions. The excitement of connecting with an audience I guess started then.

You must have seen so many changes in the music industry over the last 20 years – what do you think has been the most profound change? The digital age has made a profound difference in how we listen to and purchase music. It is not something we own or have a need to own. The digital age has changed what sort of music we listen to, how we purchase and what sort of music we purchase. It's opened up a very different way to how we enjoy and own music. Touring is also harder than it’s ever been but still the best place for me to sell my CDs. It's my favorite thing because it is still wonderful to connect with people that love your music, love to hear live music and support Australian music. There is nothing like selling physical CDs after a show and audiences wanting to connect with you again and again.

What advice would you give to the young Christine – about to embark on her career? Take it slow! Get the right team around you, discuss and talk and understand your brand. Be You were lucky enough to be asked to appear on “Who do PR savvy! Media training is so important, get it behind you. you think you are?” What did you learn about your heritage As a performer, you just get better at it as the years go by, as that you didn’t already know? What did you learn about does taking command of your vocals. But getting a good team yourself through this process? I learnt that the archives for around you is so hard because they have the right advice and our people are spread across the world, in places I never knew connections and can make such a difference to your career. archives existed. For example 7 floors below ground at the British Library in London. This is where the cylinders which have It's not what we know as performers and they can make such the sound recordings of the very first recording device invented a big difference. and those sounds are songs recorded of my people singing. I Know your voice and what music style works for you. did not know that this early recording device was being tested Songwriting and the writing process is not something that I ever We were lucky enough to be able to sit down with Christine prior for the first time by Alfred Court Hadden on his expedition to mastered and I would love to go back, develop and understand to her embarking on her tour and talk about her life and career. the Torres Strait. that process for myself. It's all about the song, baby!

I also did not know that one of my ancestors was recruited as a Your career is incredibly multi-faceted – singer, performer, priest. One of the reports written by one of the clergy described You are currently touring the country in celebration of your dancer, recording artist, songwriter, stage, film and 20 years in the industry – what can audiences expect from him as being 'difficult to convert' which is funny to read. television actor. If someone who didn’t know you asked you your shows? They can expect a good yarn because I have 20 what you spent your days doing – what would you say? years of them to share! Audiences will also see and hear a I spend most of my days preparing for the next gig, to be honest. I was also very excited at discovering my own grandfather’s vocalist in command of her own voice and stage presence. The voice recorded and stored in an archive in Canberra. It Paying bills, getting ready for the next show, rehearsing show songs will be brought to you in a way that you won’t hear on was recorded back in the 50’s and that was nice to be in a tunes, learning scripts and responding to emails. I am always the recording. We don’t perform the same versions and it’s a darkened room with just his voice. It was like listening to the juggling a lot of balls and there always seems to be a lot to do. celebration of the music of the last 20 years. It’s a great night ghost of heaven and it took me straight back to my childhood. out and I hope to see everyone there!

It was very special.

What is your favourite way to spend a day? Watching movies!

I love watching movies – and everything in particular!

Christine will be playing at Lizotte’s Newcastle on Friday 14th It must have been great to be able to pass on your family August. Audiences will be entertained with Christine’s hit songs story to your own children – has having a family of your own Tell us about your childhood? What is your best childhood Island Home, Party, Monkey and the Turtle, and Wanem Time influenced your music and/or career? In what way? While memory? In what way (if any) did your childhood prepare you as well as the full repertoire of songs from the album that having my career has influenced me and my family, it has also for life in the music industry? I think if you look hard enough given me a strong will to preserve a legacy for them. More than started it all! For tickets and more information visit there are so many moments and memories that you take with you through your professional and personal life. I have so many ever, because they will have children one day. What I have done www.lizottes.com.au

2015 will see Christine Anu celebrating the 20th Anniversary of her ARIA Award winning album, Stylin’ Up with a National tour. In a two hour show, Christine will perform the songs that drew in fans from around the globe and cemented her place as an iconic Australian performer. Not only did Stylin’ Up position Christine as a major player in the Australian Music Industry, it paved the way for many other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander contemporaries. Christine is enthralled about the opportunity to revisit Stylin’ Up in a national tour and to reconnect with the fans who have made it all happen.

16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

FASHION TIPS & TREATS

sourced from Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Net A Porter and I’m sure if we went looking we could find very similar items here.

If you are a huge fan of 1960’s fashion then this is a fantastic place to look for inspiration.

To my delight, I find a rather obscure little style icon in Myrtle Snow from American Horror Story Coven – red crimped hair at least 65 but she rocks. I've never actually seen this show (please God I hope it’s not entirely inappropriate or perverted), but I like the look of Myrtle! Apparently she is the head of the “witches coven” and is the fashionable witch with numerous couture outfits. Her love of fashion is even more defined when she walks to the stake in chic apparel and screams out "Balenciaga!" Personally I think that she is an esoteric Grace Coddington (creative director of American Vogue).

With Fashion Guru & Owner of Princess Bazaar Lisa Simmonds-Webb

What is your star style?

While researching for this month's column, I stumbled upon a very strange website that finds you clothing and accessories based on items worn in TV shows and movies.

Well, this does look like fun! Thinking… thinking. Aha – Julia Roberts in Pretty Women! The obvious stand-out is the iconic brown and white Polka dot dress worn to the Polo and, of course, the stunning Red Evening Gown worn to the opera. The really big question, are they available? No, not really, there is a vintage polka dot dress available for US$25. However, there is a lovely long red number available for just £149. The real winner here, however, is the unforgettable blue and white Vivian hooker dress available for the bargain price of only US$39.95 just in case you are interested.

Now, I was also a huge fan of Mad Men, and I’m not disappointed. Pick your poison: Betty Draper, Peggy Olsen, Megan Draper or ultra-curvy, gorgeous redhead Joan Harris.

This show is set in the 1960’s, and the fashion is sensational, but, is it still current? Surprisingly, yes it is – and can be easily

neck dress blowing in that wind), Cate Blanchett’s absolutely wicked wardrobe as the wicked stepmother in the most recent “Cinderella” or Carrie Bradshaw from Sex in the City. Or my personal favourite Helena Bonham Carter wearing absolutely anything by Vivienne Westwood. And yes I still think Stevie Nicks is awesome.

So go on, ask yourself. Who is your personal style icon or more importantly, what is your star style? But, please remember “Life really is too short to wear boring clothes” - Anonymous.

Now I would hate for you to think of me as predictable but… as a huge fan of Game of Thrones – OF COURSE WE HAVE TO GO THERE. There is a long list of characters to choose from.

The obvious as in Cersei, Sansa, and Daenerys, however, the character that most tweaks my interest is Hodor. Just joking, but Petyr Baelish “Little Finger” does have a very stylish wardrobe. Perfect for every man about town and there is something strangely sexy about the clothing attributed to Bronn.

The scariest wardrobe award belongs to Jon Snow. Seriously, do you really want your man dressing like that? And anyway they’ve killed him off, so I imagine these items will be available on eBay any day soon. Style tip - Cersei’s wardrobe is certainly worth a look.

The website is www.spylight.com, and it’s loads of fun. We all have mental images of style icons. Whether it’s Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Marilyn Monroe’s character in The Seven Year Itch (who could forget that white halter

FeatureFlash/shutterstock.com

NEWCASTLE HEALTH & WELLBEING FESTIVAL If you’re looking for a healthier lifestyle, a way to expand on your vast knowledge of the world or simply looking for an enriching experience, then you need to acquaint yourself with the Health Harmony Soul Festival! The festival is coming to Newcastle for the fourth year, from the 28th to the 30th August at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre in Broadmeadow.

The Health and Wellbeing Festival combines elements of healthy living, wellbeing and spirituality over three days to present you with new inspiration, knowledge and ideas, live performances, free seminars and workshops. Find your pathway to inner peace, health and happiness. Browse products, book a massage, psychic reading or simply roam the aisles to chat to the professional, like-minded exhibitors who will be there to showcase their products and services ranging from candles, crystals, gifts and homewares to spiritual drawings, iridology, health coaching and aura photography. See the full exhibitors list at www.healthharmonysoul.com.au.

Keynote Speakers, authors and well-known health leaders will share their knowledge in the Wellness Workshop Room. All classes, workshops, entertainment and demonstrations are FREE to join! The Newcastle Health Harmony Soul Expo is a peaceful and spiritual environment, with background music from International Headline - Lou Van Stone. Lou combines soaring, ethereal vocals and lush harmonies with ambient instrumentation. The beautiful, bell-like quality of her voice has had her winning over audience’s worldwide.

Joining the Little Light Fair are well-known Psychics and Clairvoyants including television celebrities from THE ONE and PSYCHIC TV. Australia's leading psychics with honesty and integrity will be joining the featured Psychic Reading Room to offer you accurate and inspired readings - drawing attention to the hidden forces and motivations that have, and will, shape your life. Have fun discovering your destiny. Whether it's your love life, family, friendships or finances that have you curious.

This Expo is the largest health and wellbeing event in Gold Coast, Newcastle and Canberra. Commencing on the Gold Coast in 2008 and expanding to Canberra and Newcastle in recent years, the Health Harmony Soul Expo has received high praise and now attracts more than 5000 visitors in each city.

This festival will continue to develop and expand in the coming years. Health Harmony Soul is also proud to bring the Little Light Spiritual & Wellbeing Fair to Sunshine Coast for the first time in 2015!

Above all, this event will give you an enriching and inspiring experience. So come along for an inspiring and elevating experience. Find Exhibitor and Psychic Line-Up and more information online.

Children under 14 Free. Tickets available online or at the door. Check out the special intouch discount offer. Available online only - type INTOUCH into the promo box and pay only $9 for a full day pass!

Website: www.healthharmonysoul.com.au Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/events/ 810523515703341/ www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH “This treatment is completely pain free. It does not break the skin and does not burn at all" “We use laser light of specified wavelength and power to prompt a gentle bio-chemical response... This is very different to the destruction of cells as with surgical lasers."

Each lipolysis treatment takes about 10 minutes but depending on the number of areas treated and allowing time for personal and individual consultation, appointments will be between 20 minutes and one hour.

New laser the drugfree, non-surgical and pain-free approach to body shaping.

Photo by Ale

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“We recommend a course of 8 visits over a period of four weeks to achieve the optimal overall loss per area being treated. And the good news is that there is no down time with Lipo-Plus multilase treatments.”

The Mayah Clinic is proud to announce the arrival of its new fat reduction laser machine.

This state-of-the-art piece of equipment offers a non-surgical, drug free and pain free way to trim fat and reshape your body. The principal of The Mayah Clinic, Dr Kathryn Holmes says the Lipo-Plus Mutlilase works by triggering the natural metabolic process to release the content of fat cells.

Dr Holmes says this highly effective, targeted therapy works to reduce excess fat deposits and maintain a healthy body weight. She says this treatment results in inch loss following the first treatment with no damage to tissue at all.

Dr Holmes has worked hard to build a team of professionals in her practice offering a range of health and beauty services based at Lakelands, in Lake Macquarie. The luxurious boutique location provides for personalised service where the team gets to know the clients and their individual needs. “At The Mayah Clinic we are not large and impersonal, but we are highly professional, offering results that are personalised and effective," says Dr Holmes.

Photo by

clair

Alexia Sin

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INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

Throw away the scales...

With the Non-Diet!

WORDS: Emily Levick

If you’ve ever struggled with weight or body shape insecurities, you will most likely have tried various diets. Whether they involve counting calories, detoxing, avoiding certain foods or even whole food groups, diets always offer big promises but inevitably fail to give you long-lasting results.

So what if there was a diet where you could enjoy food, feel happy and healthy, and throw away the scales? Well unfortunately there isn’t, but there is something that can offer all those things, which is why we call it the Non-Diet!

The Non-Diet Approach is increasingly being used by Dietitians, Psychologists and Doctors to help clients achieve better health without dieting. As well as helping to achieve a healthy, comfortable weight, the non-diet approach has been shown to help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, decrease body dissatisfaction, and increase fitness levels.

So what does the Non-Diet approach involve? First and foremost, it shuns the myth that body size and shape defines a person. We come in all shapes and sizes, and despite what the weight loss industry would have you believe, your size and shape does not determine your health.

In fact, good physical and mental health is achieved by respecting and taking care of the body you have, exactly as it is! Rather than focusing on external influences, the nondiet approach helps you look inward to reconnect with your internal body cues, and in doing so, shift from a mindset of needing to change or fix your body, to one of self-nurture and care.

The non-diet approach gives you the skills to eat mindfully and intuitively, reconnect with your body’s natural feelings of hunger and fullness, and find fun and enjoyable forms of body movement. Build skills and confidence in your own innate ability to select appropriate foods for your body in appropriate amounts.

Ditch the dieting rollercoaster ride that almost certainly results in weight regain and try the Non-Dieting Approach to achieve positive outcomes for your health, mind and body.

For more information contact Optimum Intake at Charlestown on 0499 008 451 or visit their website at www.optimumintake.com.au

EMILY LEVICK is an Accredited Practising Dietitian, graduating from The University of Newcastle and has been working with the Non-Dieting approach for a number of years.

Emily has seen great success using this approach with her clients.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH

STREET STYLE 3 NEW WINTER JACKET STAPLES

Alyce Cowell

Alyce Cowell is the official stylist/blogger for Westfield.

Follow Alyce as she provides shopping tips, fashion trend how-tos, and styling advice.

Say hello to the leather biker, fur jacket and printed coat – three head-turning styles that will make you want to retire your everyday black coat. What’s more, they’ll give your winter wardrobe a serious shake-up, keep you toasty warm and complete your outfit… not cover it up. Here’s how I wear my three new favourite winter jackets.

Sportsgirl Faux Leather Jacket Westfield Kotara

THE LEATHER BIKER Think you have to ride a Harley to pull off a leather biker?

Think again! This style adds instant cool factor and can be thrown over anything from skinny jeans and a band tee to a draped blouse and midi skirt. This faux leather biker from Sportsgirl is the perfect length and shape.

THE FUR JACKET Arguably the trickiest winter look to pull off, the fur jacket needs to be styled in a certain way. Because it’s so bulky, it should be worn with skinny jeans, slim midi skirts or anything else form-fitting to balance out the shape. If you consider yourself a classic dresser, go for black or navy, but if you’re more creative, try a pastel shade… And always faux fur, of course.

THE PRINTED COAT Even though we wear our winter coat every day, we tend to stick to one or two basics that we can throw over any outfit – black, camel and grey, we’re looking at you! If you’re ready to branch out, try a printed coat; it will lift the simplest of outfits (for those jeans and tee kinda days), and if you choose one in a monochrome print, it will still go with most of your wardrobe (see Peacoat from Country Road opposite).

General Pants Co Somedays Lovin' Sacred Fur Coat Westfield Kotara

HOW TO: GET A SUMMER BODY IN WINTER

By Claire Edwards - bringing inspiration on how to wear the latest fitness and fashion trends on behalf of Westfield Kotara

It might seem a little early to be talking about summer bodies while your oversized knits are still on high rotation. But the fitness and health decisions you make in the next few months will determine how you look and feel come summer, so it’s no time to hibernate. If you’re struggling to stick to your normal workout routine, some gym gear or trainers might be just what you need to freshen up your look and stay motivated. Grab a fitness buddy, schedule a time to meet up, get your workout done and enjoy a coffee catch-up after.

Nutrition also plays a key part in getting your summer body, so now’s the time to make smarter food choices. Try whipping up your own juices and soups so you can take a healthy lunch or snack to work.

These two gadgets will make getting prepared a little easier: • The 900-watt Superfood nutrition extractor, the original NutriBullet Pro (available from David Jones) comes with 9pcs inside to make your very own NutriBlasts.

• Peel, sharpen and curl ribbons of vegetables with this handy kitchen gadget from Australian Geographic.

Easily cut carrots, zucchini, cucumbers and other vegetables with a similar shape into ribbons.

Saving time and effort in the kitchen, the Karoto Slicer is a great gadget for cooks and makes eating raw veggies fun!

Karoto Sharpener and Peeler Australian Geographic

Photo: Hype DC 22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

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Country Road Train Ready Hoodie Westfield Kotara

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INTOUCH FASHION, BEAUTY, HEALTH A TRENCH COAT - A key transitional coat you can wear from fresh autumn days to cool winter mornings. If you’re after a classic style, go for a camel-coloured one that’ll go with everything!

A PARKA - The perfect cover-up for weekends out and about, most typically in shades of olive or army green – fur trim is optional!

A CAPE - With most fashionistas wearing their coat draped and not making use of the sleeves anyway, a cape is now a practical option.

Blue Illusion Soft Trench Coat $229.95 Avail. August

5 ESSENTIAL WINTER COATS

By Claire Edwards - bringing inspiration on how to wear the latest fashion trends on behalf of Westfield Kotara

Two thirds through winter, we’re getting a little tired of wearing our one staple coat.

Feeling the same? You might want to update your outerwear to cheer yourself up for the next few months until you can de-layer. With the mid-season sales still on, now’s the time to add a new jacket or coat to your rotation.

Here are the top five classic styles to add your wardrobe.

A QUILTED PUFFA - A cosy outer layer that keeps you warm, with a lightweight feel to keep in the heat. Wrap yourself up in this for your break at the snow.

A PEA COAT - A luxe pea coat offers a little polish to your ensemble and is the perfect final layer. Go for one in black, dark grey or navy, as the simplicity will add a professional look to your daily work commute.

Country Road Check Pea Coat Westfield Kotara

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INTOUCH TRAVEL

[4962 1116 the junction] [4947 1116 warners bay]

Why use a Travel Agent?

Six great reasons to head to Hawaii Waikiki Beach, Hawaii

By Megan O'Sullivan With the internet at our fingertips, many people are taking the risk of booking their travel online. Sometimes it works out ok, but when something goes wrong, you are very much on your own. Sadly this is often when people realise the many benefits of booking through a Travel Agent.

Too many choices - There are many details that need to be co-ordinated, particularly on a multi-destination holiday. With countless choices on the internet, it can be very confusing and time-consuming researching the correct one to use. Based on experience, Travel Agents know which operators will have the best deals.

Experience - What each person wants from their holiday can be very different. Your Travel Agent can tailor-make your holiday to match your expectations and budget based on experience and knowledge of that destination. Sure a hotel can look fabulous online but is it as good as it looks or the work of a great photographer?

Cost - Often the cost through a Travel Agent and booking online are very similar. By using a Travel Agent not only will you save a lot of time, but you will get great advice plus warnings about tourist traps which is invaluable information to make your trip more enjoyable.

Hiccups! - When an unforeseen situation arises that requires a change in your holiday plans (illness, emergency, volcanic ash) do you want to spend your time trying to contact airlines, hotels, tour operators and other operators to amend your arrangements? Wouldn’t you rather make one call to your Travel Agent and have them sort it all out for you?

We care - We WANT you to have a great holiday. Our reputation is on the line, and we are locals in your community, so we want to go that extra mile to make sure you are happy!

So go ahead and use the internet for fun holiday research like where to get the tastiest gelato in Florence, and the best shopping in New York and leave the travel arrangements to your experienced Travel Agent!

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Hawaii has to be one of the most perfect holiday destinations on earth. Every way you turn you’ll find stunning scenery that will simply take your breath away and the range of activities on offer is endless. Island culture and the ‘Aloha spirit’ filters into every part of Hawaii’s main islands, from the natural environment to the friendly locals. Combine this spirit with some sun and fun and it’s hard to narrow down the reasons to visit Hawaii.

STUNNING SCENERY: From white sand beaches with crystal clear water, to lush tropical valleys below towering mountains, to lava plains and cascading waterfalls, the scenery in Hawaii is truly breathtaking. Spend the morning swimming with green sea turtles and enjoy an afternoon watching the sun go down over the rim of a magnificent volcano.

INCREDIBLE ADVENTURE: Zipline through the rainforest canopies, scuba dive alongside manta rays, mountain bike down an extinct volcano crater, surf the huge swells or go tubing down historic irrigation channels. Whatever adventure you’re looking for you’ll find it on the islands of Hawaii.

RETAIL THERAPY: Pack an extra suitcase because Hawaii is one of the best places to shop for your favourite designer labels (and pick up some bargains along the way!). There are factory outlets with year-round sales and local craft and produce markets selling everything from macadamia nuts to traditional paintings.

RELAXING ENVIRONMENT: Swing in a hammock, sunbathe by the pool or read on the beach. When it comes to slowing down, Hawaii has it covered. If you’re without little ones enjoy the

serenity of a couples’ treatment at a luxury hotel spa or if the kids are in tow, relish a peaceful afternoon by the pool while they’re entertained at the kids’ club. If you need a little kick start to begin relaxing then indulge yourself with a traditional Hawaiian massage (called ‘lomilomi’) to unwind.

OCEAN ACTIVITIES: Visit any one of Hawaii’s islands and you’ll find palm-fringed beaches that offer a whole host of different ocean activities. Whether you’re taking on the enormous swells at Banzai Pipeline, cruising on a stand-up paddle board on Waikiki Beach, or introducing the kids to the marine life during a snorkel session on Maui, Hawaii is the ultimate destination to dive on in!

EATING OUT: Hawaii thrives on casual dining, and is renowned for tropical Mai Tai cocktails and Kona coffee. Head to the graffiti-covered Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Kahuku on Oahu for some of the best fresh spicy prawns you’ll ever eat, indulge in classic Hawaiian Mai Tai’s at Duke’s in Waikiki, and explore the slopes of Hulalai to sample some of Kona’s finest at a local coffee farm.

INTOUCH TRAVEL Festival Race Day which will be held at the Racecourse on the 8th of August, ahead of the evening match.

The Bledisloe Cup Festival Race Day will see Randwick Racecourse cloaked in a sea of gold and black and the jockeys will run a special Bledisloe Cup race draped in Wallaby and All Black silks. Bledisloe Cup 2015 ticketholders and ANZ Stadium members can enjoy a full day of sport with free entry to the special Race Day, with on-course activities running throughout the day ensuring fun for the whole family.

IMAGE: Destination NSW

Rugby Fever takes over Sydney with The Bledisloe Cup Festival From racecourses and golf courses to Sydney’s spectacular harbour and shopping precincts, The Bledisloe Cup Festival will take over the harbour city for four days from the 5th to the 8th of August. Most festival activities are free and some offer the chance to meet Qantas Wallabies players.

The Bledisloe Cup Festival culminates in the ultimate transTasman battle between arch rivals the Qantas Wallabies and the New Zealand All Blacks at Sydney’s ANZ Stadium, on Saturday 8th August 2015.

Qantas Wallaby, Quade Cooper and his partner, the fashionable racing ambassador, Laura Dundovic recently stepped out at Royal Randwick Racecourse ahead of the Bledisloe Cup

NEWCASTLE AIRPORT FAST FACTS •Newcastle Airport is the second busiest airport in NSW, after Sydney Airport.

•Newcastle Airport welcomes more than one million passengers through the terminal each year.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres said the Bledisloe Cup Festival will bring more rugby fans to Sydney with plenty on offer for everyone.

•Since 2003, Newcastle Airport has experienced more than 500% growth in passenger numbers

“This year’s Festival features a range of events in the week leading up to the big game at ANZ Stadium. The NSW Government is proud to have secured the 2015 Bledisloe Cup Festival for Sydney through our tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, with the event expected to attract visitors from all over Australia and the world” he said.

•In 2014, Newcastle Airport contributed $1.19 billion to the local economy and supported 3,346 jobs

Festival events include an interactive Wallabies fan zone at Sydney’s Pitt Street Mall, a Women in Business and Sport Rugby lunch, a Bledisloe Bay fan day at Darling Harbour, a Classic Wallabies golf day and a special Bledisloe Cup Race Day at Royal Randwick.

Travel Packages for the Bledisloe Cup are available via Qantas Holidays – visit the website for details. We Love Rugby also has one and two night Bledisloe Cup packages available.

Further information is available at www.weloverugby.com/2015-bledisloe-cup-sydney

•There are approximately 170 flights departing Newcastle Airport each week.

•There is one runway at Newcastle Airport. It is 2,438 metres long and 45 metres wide.

•Newcastle Airport has won Gold at the Tourism NSW Awards twice, in 2009 and 2011.

•The Airport won the Australian Airports Association ‘Major Airport of the Year’ award in 2011 •Mercure Newcastle Airport Opens 1st August 2015 •Current destinations include Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ballina-Byron Bay and Taree •The current expansion project due to be complete this month will see the terminal expanded by 2,600 square metres, and the inclusion of customs, quarantine and immigration facilities, which will pave the way for international travel in the (hopefully not so distant) future.

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Join us for drinks, tapas and great entertainment with Aria Nominated Flamenco guitarist Damian Wright.

Stay for dinner to complete your Spanish midweek escape.

~ eat@rustica.com.au ~ 02 4929 3333 ~ www.rustica.com.au ~

NEWCASTLE

A Complete and Unforgettable Dining Experience

The atmosphere at Rustica is hard to beat and the Dion Ackland-designed interior features authentic and hand-crafted pieces sourced and salvaged from countries such as Spain, or that have been created using time honoured methods showcasing workmanship rarely seen today.

With stunning ocean views, superb Mediterranean cuisine and inspiring décor - Rustica Newcastle Beach is the ideal dining experience - lunch or evening.

This includes a 17th century stone window salvaged from an Italian chapel, and an archway constructed using reclaimed material from a demolition site in Spain. Then there is the bar! Constructed using handmade tile with the bar top made from aged iron and created in the style of an old 19th century Parisian bistro.

Meaning 'rural' in Italian, Rustica was inspired by the social style of Mediterranean dining and the spice of North African cuisine.

Established in 2011, by Will Creedon and celebrated chef Mark Hosie, Rustica Newcastle Beach provides diners with a unique 16th and 17th century Mediterranean themed dining experience with a menu that includes tapas style dishes to mains. The food is fresh and whenever possible is prepared using locally sourced produce such as Port Stephens oysters, Upper Hunter lamb, and Hunter Valley verjuice. Try the six or eight course banquet – it’s often the answer to any menu decision woes!

The ceiling timber, from which over 500 lanterns are suspended, is largely reclaimed oak and the large pillar in front of the bar is covered with a copy of a painting which can be found in a small chapel in Chile.

This is not just dining at its best – instead it is the complete experience – dreamed up and delivered by two passionate men who have raised the bar for dining experiences in Newcastle.

The generous wine list compliments the menu, with a selection of top Hunter Valley wines as well as some regional and international varieties from some lesserknown producers to suit all palates. They also have lovely liqueurs, whiskeys and a comprehensive selection of spirits and cocktails.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 27

NEWCASTLE At Love Tree Café their philosophy is simple – and that is to provide you with the best dining experience that will have you returning for more… It works!

The coffee is widely spoken about and for good reason – it’s exciting, delicious and fresh and sourced from the award winning Fish River Roasters. As for food, the menu includes gluten free and vegetarian options and changes seasonally.

One Tree Coffee is a family owned and run business that uses Morgans Coffee Roasters verde blend to deliver artisan style espresso with a modern flair.

We also showcase single origins from around the world which will excite the palate and leave you wanting more.

And if coffee is not your jam, come in and have a melted hot chocolate. We blend Zokoko artisan chocolate and Lindt milk chocolate together to create the most amazing and unique hot chocolate experience you’ll ever have.

ADDRESS K207, Level 2 Charlestown Square, Pearson St, Charlestown OPEN Monday to Saturday 8am - 5pm and Sunday 9am - 4pm PH (02) 4943 8800 W www.onetreecoffee.com.au

Love Tree Café Your place away from the madding crowd Love Tree Café is the perfect place to escape to - somewhere where you can go to chill and enjoy some well-earned time for yourself or spend valuable quality time with friends and family.

Wake up to the most wonderful breakfast menu – a choice of seasonal fresh fruit salads, muesli with fresh fruits and yogurt, pancakes topped with fresh banana, free range eggs cooked to your liking, omelette, a choice of breakfasts big and small and my favourite - smashed avocado with buttered mushrooms and Danish feta with a drizzle of balsamic glaze on toasted sourdough.

The lunch menu is just as delicious and served until 3pm – try the Moroccan lamb burger with chips or the forest mushroom risotto. Out of this world! The dinner menu comes out from 5pm and includes a nice selection of tempting dishes. My favourite – the porkbelly with caramelised Asian sauce with apple and noodle salad.

This is food for the soul - fresh, full of flavour and created with passion and pride.

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Inner City Winemakers is a totally unique cellar door and winery situated within walking distance of Newcastle’s CBD and busy working harbour.

Locals and visitors alike are welcome to call in and sample our range of traditionally made wines. All staff are involved in the entire wine making process all the way from choosing varieties and creating styles, to the label design - so we are all very keen and enthusiastic to show off what we offer.

All our grapes are sourced from a number of New South Wales wine regions.

This enables us to produce an exciting and diverse range of wines, and we usually have a wine to suit every taste.

We also hold regular art exhibitions promoting local artists.

ADDRESS 28 Church Street, Wickham OPEN Tuesday to Sunday 10am - 5pm PH (02) 4962 3545 W www.innercitywinemakers.com.au 28 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

NEWCASTLE

Love Tree Café

Enjoy quality wines and craft beers from around Australia with your meal, from our bar.

Love Tree Cafe is somewhere you can escape and enjoy some time for yourself, with friends, your family or that special someone; Human or furry! A great cafe and restaurant to enjoy a dinner in Hamilton.

Our food is fresh, full of flavour and created with passion and pride. Our menu includes gluten free and vegan options and we will try our best to meet any dietary requirements you may have.

Our philosophy is for you to have a dining experience that will entice you to come back and be a regular part of the Love Tree Cafe family.

Love Tree Cafe wants you to have the best, so our coffee is from the exciting and delicious Fish River Roasters in the O’Connell Valley NSW. At Fish River Roasters they roast in small batches so they can deliver to us fresh and fast. Their philosophy is simple: source the best coffee beans and roast each variety to bring out their best flavours and aroma.

Good food, good drinks, good chat.

Proving that great things really do come in small packages, this quirky harbour-side small bar answers all the questions you never had time to ask.

Choice selections of beers, wines and bespoke cocktails matched with an amazing array of bar-style food.

Retro relaxation vibes are plentiful.

ADDRESS The Boardwalk, Honeysuckle OPEN Wednesday to Sunday 12 noon till late PH (02) 49261799 W www.moneypenny.net.au

MoneyPenny:

Where life is endlessly delicious Superbly positioned along The Boardwalk in Newcastle’s thriving Honeysuckle precinct and with wonderful views over the harbour, MoneyPenny provides a seductively lit, intimate retreat serving delicious share dishes and whimsical beverages in a playful and yet sophisticated atmosphere.

This contemporary small bar provides the idyllic setting for a romantic evening, catching up with friends, a quick bite or just chilling out.

Think high tea, tapas, yum cha, bar snacks, boutique beer and smooth cocktails, and you’ve got a pretty good idea of what you might find at MoneyPenny. Here they have a quality cocktails in spades with a selection that changes every week.

ADDRESS Shop 5, 79 Beaumont Street, Hamilton OPEN 8am - 4pm Breakfast and Lunch 7 days Dinner 5pm til late Tuesday to Saturday PH (02) 4940 0006 W www.lovetreecafe.com.au

The dining experience is truly unique and inspired from various cuisines using fresh, locally sourced produce. The menu is diverse and includes a selection of small to medium dishes and larger platters.

Here it’s fair to share with a selection of awesome share plates such as pulled pork sliders, orange duck dumplings, prawn or vegetable gyoza, steamed, porcini mushroom arancini, buffalo wings with blue cheese sauce, spicy meat balls with crusty bread, chicken, spinach and fetta meat balls and so much more. The choice of platters include a ploughman’s lunch and a delicious antipasto.

So, pull up a chair and chill out sometime soon at MoneyPenny.

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NEWCASTLE

NEWCASTLE

Meet the Food & Wine Expo celebrities on stage each day:

The Newcastle FOOD & WINE EXPO Gourmands take note, the Newcastle Food & Wine Expo is back from Friday 28th to Sunday 30th August at the Newcastle Entertainment Centre in Broadmeadow.

Bringing to life the connoisseur delights of Australian cuisine, the popular event features celebrity chef cooking demonstrations, culinary presentations and over 100 exhibitors showcasing their fabulous products and offering FREE samples of gourmet food and wine.

Visit the Celebrity Cooking Stage and enjoy free cooking demonstrations from MasterChef and My Kitchen Rules Celebrities plus local talent. The main stage has all the latest recipes and cooking ideas for you to try at home! Grab a front row seat, sit back and relax and watch celebrity chefs create their favourite recipes with an interactive cooking show not to be missed!

Ben Milbourne appeared on MasterChef 2012, the series which his best mate Andy Allen went on to win. Since then, Milbourne has produced two cookbooks – last year’s Mexican Craving and Tasmanian Trail – and travelled the country and the world. Ben now has his own TV show on Channel 10, ‘Ben’s Menu’, which was recently nominated for a Logie! This exciting new foodie series is filmed at Ben’s picturesque farmhouse in northwest Tasmania.

Who could forget these two? Drasko and Bianco appeared on the highest rating TV show in Australia - the latest (2015) My Kitchen Rules. "If I were to describe our cooking style it's 100 percent fusion," says Drasko, "Cooking relaxes us, but also there's a lot of passion between us in the kitchen.

Bianca always thinks she's right and I always think I'm right. And it's good, you can get playful with it. It brings out a lot of different emotions in us." .

Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner, the Hotel has launched its new Winter food and cocktail menus.

Also offering daily dinner specials like half price oyster nights and a Chefs board special there has never been a better reason to visit.

Still providing Newcastle with live entertainment Friday, Saturdays and Sundays!

ADDRESS 150 Wharf Road, Newcastle OPEN 7 days 11am - late RESTAURANT Lunch 11.30am - 3.30pm, Afternoon 3.30pm - 5.30pm, Dinner 5.30pm - 9pm PH (02) 4929 6333 W www.queenswharfhotel.com.au

The always impressive Courtney Roulston first rose to fame after competing in series 2 of MasterChef (2010). In 2011, Courtney set-up her very own successful catering company, with clients ranging from the 'Sydney Swans' to private catering jobs scattered around Australia. Aside from her own catering business, Courtney also acts as an ambassador for Coles, participates in regular cooking demonstrations for both Bunnings and Coles and has her very own cooking segment on Channel 9's 'Mornings' with Sonia Kruger and David Campbell.

Newcastle couple and bubby blondes, Carly and Tresne appeared on My Kitchen Rules in 2014. The bubbly and positive couple won the nations hearts with their positivity and love Treat yourself and purchase a Goelet for everyone around them and each other.

Celebrity Dining Room ticket for $85 per person and enjoy a modern dining experience After coming out publicly during the airing of with MasterChef favourite, Logie nominee and the show they unknowingly created a media frenzy with a story inspiring many others all Channel 10 TV host, Ben Milbourne. With a around the globe. They both now share a succulent 6-course degustation menu, each paired with a matching wine, this is the menu positive outlook on life and want to share their secrets to happiness wherever they go! of the year and the perfect opportunity to Keep an eye out for tips from Carly and Tresne get up close and personal to learn all Ben’s on creating a wealth of happiness using secrets in cooking and more. positive thinking and the law of attraction.

Also, take the time to visit the Appreciation Area where you can sample, taste and gain an appreciation for finer tastes. These FREE classes include wine, beer, liqueur and cheese classes. With non-stop sessions running throughout the expo, there is definitely something for everyone.

The Queens Wharf Hotel has just released new Winter menus.

Children under 14 Free. Tickets available online or at the door. Check out the special intouch discount offer. Available online only type INTOUCH into the promo box and pay only $17 for a full day pass! www.foodandwineexpo.com.au

Artistic. Charming. Cheeky. The Lucky promises to win the hearts of all locals and visitors of Newcastle.

Staying true to its grandeur history dating back to the 1800’s, The Lucky Hotel underwent major renovations in 2014 to restore the original façade and bring the famous hotel back to life.

Situated in the heart of Newcastle, the hotel features a central bar, alfresco dining, internal courtyard, gaming area, a traditional American barbecue restaurant and 30 boutique hotel rooms.

Contrasted against a trendy new fit out of elegant modern designs and features, the family owned and operated hotel offers a luminous mix of old and new.

OPENING HOURS | Monday & Tuesday 11:00am – 11:00pm Wednesday & Thursday 11:00am – 12:00am | Friday 11:00am – 1:00am Saturday 8:00am – 1:00am | Sunday 8:00am – 10:00pm

ADDRESS 237 Hunter Street, Newcastle OPEN 7 days RESTAURANT 7 Days Lunch & Dinner, Breakfast on Saturday and Sunday PH (02) 4925 8888 W www.theluckyhotel.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31

LAKE MACQUARIE

Australia’s Most Awarded Boutique Winery Celebrating our 30th Vintage

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So pop in and see us or place an order over the phone.

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Best of all… if you’re running short of time everything on the sit-down menu is available for takeaway so you can have that Mama Mex experience at home!

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The superb food and fully licensed bar compliment both the indoor and al fresco dining experience.

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Located at beautiful Warners Bay, Mama Mex is the perfect blend of Italian and Mexican dining!

The fun and friendly atmosphere and views of the glorious lake make for a relaxing lunch by the bay, a romantic dinner or special family night out.

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NSW Wine of the Year 2014 Two Trophies - 2014 Australian Boutique Wine Show Two Trophies - 2014 Hunter Valley Wine Show Four Trophies - 2014 Sydney Royal Wine Show Trophy - Best Semillon in 2013 & 2014 Sydney International Wine Competition Trophy - Best Semillon 2012 & 2013 London International Wine Challenge

Experience our ultra-premium range of Estate grown single vineyard wines at our Boutique Cellar Door.

Bookings are recommended to ensure you don’t miss out.

ADDRESS 75 King Street, Warners Bay OPEN Dinner Wednesday to Sunday until 9pm, Lunch Friday to Sunday from 11.30am PH (02) 4948 9963 W www.mamamexrestaurant.com.au

CELEBRATE VARIETY! The Children’s Charity’s 40th Anniversary at Newcastle’s inaugural Variety of Chefs 2015 is on Saturday 29 August 2015. Follow this unique recipe for an evening of delectable delights!

INGREDIENTS • 1 x Magnificent celebration for Variety’s 40th Anniversary year in Australia.

• 4 x Refreshingly talented, Australian culinary greats donating their time for Variety – the Children’s Charity; Peter Kuruvita (Flying Fish, Noosa Beach House), Lesley Taylor (Lesley Taylor Group), Troy Rhoades Brown (Muse Dining) and Timothy Montgomery (Restaurant Mason).

• 4 x Delicious courses, each matched with its own premium wine.

• 1 x Hunter Region's largest and most prestigious venue, Newcastle City Hall.

• 1 x Interactive, live kitchen stadium filled with celebrity chefs.

• 250 x guests with a penchant for mind-blowing gastronomic delights and helping local Aussie kids who are sick, disadvantaged or who have special needs.

• 1 x Inspirational speech by fifteen year old Siobhan Daley, a Variety grant recipient who received a standing frame.

• A splash of sensational entertainment, culinary games and live music including a performance by Junkyard Beats.

• A sprinkling of irresistible auction items with all proceeds going towards supporting Variety kids in need.

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METHOD

McLEISH ESTATE

McLeish Estate Wines 462 DeBeyers Road Pokolbin PH (02) 4998 7754 www.mcleishhunterwines.com.au

Indulge with

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Chocolate

• Combine chefs on an interactive kitchen stage to create an inventive, tantalising four course menu • Mix with Newcastle and Hunter foodies, friends, clients and colleagues for a night that you'll truly never forget, irresistible auction prizes and sensational entertainment • Serve with a premium collection of fine wines

PLATE UP the tastiest fine dining charity event on the Newcastle and Hunter region foodie calendar.

The inaugural Variety of Chefs Newcastle 2015 will showcase culinary delights and matching wine at Newcastle City Hall from 6:15pm on Saturday 29th August 2015. This sensational night of sophisticated food, premium wines, magnificent entertainment and an irresistible array of prizes is all in the name of fundraising for local kids in need.

COOKING NOTES Variety of Chefs Newcastle aims to raise $60,000 NET this year, with all funds raised during the evening to go toward helping local children who are sick, disadvantaged and have special needs. Variety assists children who ‘fall through the cracks’ of support, to help children live life to the fullest.

For further information and tickets visit www.variety.org.au/newchefs or call (02) 9819 1004.

We invite you to indulge in our fine range of unique hand-made chocolate products and our huge variety of freshly made fudge, or relax at our factory and retail centre at 2320 Broke Road, Pokolbin.

BOUTIQUE FACTORY & SHOWROOM 2320 Broke Rd, Pokolbin Ph 4998-6999 Also at Peterson Champagne House Ph 4998-7301 and Shop 5 Hunter Valley Gardens Village Ph 4998-7221

www.hvchocolate.com.au • admin@hvchocolate.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY

HUNTER VALLEY WINE COUNTRY

A Smorgasbord of Wine & Food With a tradition of viticulture stretching back more than 180 years and celebrated as Australia’s primary wine and food destination, the Hunter Valley attracts food and wine lovers from all over the world and treats them to a fascinating journey into the world of great wine and wonderful food.

it is a major wine producing area gaining international recognition for its winemakers and the quality and distinct regional characteristics of its premium wines which are equal to the best in the world - in particular Hunter Valley Semillon and Shiraz.

The wine sector is also recognised for producing a full range of wine varietals – one to match every meal!

The rich soils of the Hunter Valley inspire growers to produce a wide range of premium wines and fresh produce - providing visitors to the Hunter Valley with more choice and diversity than any other wine region in Australia.

The Hunter Valley is Newcastle’s own wine region and it is now just 35 minutes away.

So stay awhile - a day or maybe two, and choose from a diversity of restaurants spread throughout the region, go on a wine tour, attend a wine tasting class or self-drive using the popular Wine & Dine Hunter Valley guide and trail maps.

Not only is the Hunter Valley Australia’s oldest and best known wine region, but

Recreating History Wynwood Estate is one of the newest boutique wine brands with some of the oldest and most renowned vineyards, producing traditional, premium quality wines from the grand old vines.

Wynwood Estate offers a personalised and relaxing wine tasting experience like no other, let our very experienced staff guide through our extensive range, from easy drinking styles through to Award winning Hunter Classics.

Our onsite restaurant “Twine Restaurant” is one of the Hunter Valley’s gems with the Barrel Room seating 120 for Functions and weddings and the wonderful old Wine Making Museum to add a touch of history to any occasion.

Specialising in corporate and private wine tastings, you really should plan your Hunter day trip around a visit to Wynwood Estate.

SPECIAL OFFER – Book 24 hours in advance to received a FREE Premium Wine & Cheese Tasting for 2 people, valued at $40. (Excludes bus tours)

ADDRESS 310 Oakey Creek Road, Pokolbin OPEN 7 days 10am - 5pm RESTAURANT Lunch 7 days, Dinner Friday, Saturday and Sunday PH (02) 4998 7885 E cellar@wynwoodestate.com.au W www.wynwoodestate.com.au

There’s no place like Briar Ridge.

Nestled amongst the rolling hills of Mount View, Briar Ridge is an iconic vineyard producing classic Hunter Valley wines. Gywn Olsen, the 2014 Gourmet Traveller WINE’s Young Winemaker of the Year and 2015 Hunter Valley Rising Star of the Year, works her magic as Chief Winemaker and is passionate about producing estate grown wines for the Briar Ridge range.

Enjoy a tasting while taking in the tranquil gardens and mountain views, or why not relax a little longer over an antipasto or cheese plate and be ensconced in the beauty that is Briar Ridge.

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The natural beauty of Briar Ridge is also a perfect function or wedding venue.

ADDRESS 593 Mount View Road, Mount View OPEN 7 days 10am - 5pm E cellardoor@briarridge.com.au PH (02) 4990 3670 W www.briarridge.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

HUNTER VALLEY

Just two of our tidings...

Grab one before they fly away!

Award-winning Goldfish Bar & Kitchen, the Hunter hub to acclaimed dining and socializing.

Our aim is to provide you with down to earth dining, expertly mixed drinks, fine wine and craft beer. Our cuisine is refined-rustic; with flavour combinations from Italian, French and Spanish cuisine with a hint of Asian influence presented with a share style approach.

EXCITING NEW WINTER MENU NOW AVAILABLE! KITCHEN OPENING HOURS Every day for lunch and dinner with a limited after hours menu in between, except Saturday where we have our full menu available from midday to 9:30pm.

Late night pizzas available until 11pm on Friday night and midnight on Saturday.

ADDRESS Tempus Two Winery, Cnr Broke & McDonalds Rds, Hunter Valley OPEN 7 days, Midday to Late RESTAURANT 7 days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7688 W www.thegoldfish.com.au

OPEN 7 DAYS PH (02) 4930 7113 701 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2321 • www.gartelmann.com.au

much awarded Gartelmann Diedrich Shiraz and Wilhelm Shiraz wines are dedicated to the memory of these two men who played such an influential role in Jorg's early life.

In 1953 Jorg, his siblings, his mother and his stepfather migrated to Australia from Bremen, North Germany via the SS Anna Saleen and Jorg later carved out a successful career in the computer industry.

Much to Celebrate at Gartelmann Wines "My wine philosophy is simple: I only produce wines that I would like to drink – and that means immediately approachable and with balance.”

- Jorg Gartelmann Gartelmann Wines have much to celebrate and be proud of – having spent the past 19 years producing some of the Hunter Valleys finest and most awarded wines.

Owner and winemaker Jorg Gartelmann was just two years old when his father, a German army officer, was killed on the Eastern Front. Jorg, his twin brother Dieter, sister Ruth and their mother were then taken in and cared for by their grandfather Diedrich and their uncle Wilhelm. Visitors to the Gartelmann cellar door will note that the highly regarded and 34 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

In 1996, after Jorg suffered a heart attack and underwent bypass surgery, he and his wife Jan quit the computer business and Sydney to move to the Hunter Valley where they bought a rundown vineyard in the Lovedale area. The vineyard, planted in 1970 by renown Sydney restaurateur, Oliver Shaul and known as George Hunter Estate offered enormous potential and especially good soil and sub-soil in the Shiraz blocks.

With the aim to make only top quality wines from the 39 acres of vines, Jorg commenced making a limited amount of wine under the Gartelmann label in 1997 before moving into full production in 1998 - specialising in the classic Hunter Valley varieties of Semillon and Shiraz for which they have won multiple awards.

After ten years of hard work, some major improvements and winning numerous medals and trophies, Jorg and Jan were approached to sell the vineyard but retained the property on Lovedale Rd on which the cellar door is located.

With the sale of the vineyard, Jorg decided to adopt the ways of the French and become a ‘negociant’ - buying specially selected, high quality grapes to produce wine under his label.

Using his nineteen years of wine producing experience, Jorg now oversees everything from grape selection and production to when the wine is eventually bottled - ensuring the Gartelmann quality and style is retained in each and every bottle.

Gartelmann Wines now source their grapes from the Hunter Valley and other NSW regions, including the cool Rylstone area in Mudgee and export to the US, Germany, Singapore and China.

As well as the award winning varieties of Semillon and Shiraz, Gartelmann Wines also produce Verdelho, Chardonnay, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet and a Liqueur Muscat. The Cellar Door also has 2 beers - an Australian Ale and an Irish Red Ale available from the Black Duck Brewery.

Marketing and sales are left to Jan, who spent 25 years living in Europe and this European influence is very evident in the interesting cellar door with its fireplace, large deck overlooking a bird filled pond and private art collection sourced from Hunter Valley artists.

The small cellar door has the feeling of a country house and at this time of the year there is always a fire blazing in the fireplace inside. Being a true family owned and operated winery, Jan and Jorg can often be found in and around the Cellar Door talking with guests and answering questions.

A recent addition to the Cellar Door was the opening of the Deck Cafe - now a popular breakfast and lunch venue amongst both locals and tourists and owned by local restaurateur Matt Dillow.

It's easy to see why Gartelmann Wines has been rated by James Halliday as a 5 Star Winery - one of Australia’s best!

With its award winning wines, great atmosphere and stylish restaurant-style cafe - a visit to the Gartelmann Cellar Door is a ''must do'' for any visitor to the Hunter Valley.

So look out for the magpie as you drive along Lovedale Road - and when you do, you will know that you have discovered a real gem of a producer with some outstanding wines. For more information visit www.gartelmann.com.au

MISTLETOE is a small family owned and run winery that was established by the current owners in 1989. Now in its 26th year, Mistletoe’s “no-compromise” approach to producing small quantities of “true to origin” premium quality wine has seen it rewarded with many, many hundreds of awards and accolades.

With over 20 different wines, including Sparkling, Whites, Reds, Rosés, Fortified and Dessert styles on tasting, Mistletoe has one of the most comprehensive ranges of wines to be seen in the Hunter.

• • • •

All wines are made in our onsite winery Winery tastings available for larger groups – bookings essential!

Mistletoe Wines are only available for purchase from the Winery Cellar Door Knowledgeable and friendly staff to make you welcome

When visiting Mistletoe be sure to take time to visit POKOLBIN GALLERY and MISTLETOE SCULPTURE GARDEN also in the grounds of the Cellar Door.

With three generations now actively engaged in the day to day operation of Mistletoe, it is truly a unique family winery.

Come up and meet the Mistletoe Girls who will make your visit all the more special.

Mistletoe is now just 35 minutes form Newcastle – take the Hunter Expressway M15 which becomes the A15 (New England Highway) at Branxton and then take the Hermitage Road exit.

Open 10am until 6pm daily | 771 Hermitage Road, Pokolbin 2320 PH 1800 055 080 FAX 02 4998 7792 E office@mistletoewines.com.au | W www.mistletoewines.com.au

HUNTER VALLEY

Adina Vineyard

FROM CORPORATE LIFE TO VIGNERON…

important and one of the most popular wine and food destinations in Lovedale.

Wine remains Adina’s core business and the vineyard has established a good reputation for producing award winning estate wines of exceptional quality that include Chardonnay, Semillon, Pinot Grigio and Verdelho amongst the whites and Shiraz, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon amongst the reds. Adina also a delicious Parte Angelica Muscat Non Vintage – a blend of Muscat wines sourced from the Hunter Valley and Rutherglen that reflects the Italian heritage of the vineyard.

In addition to wine and accommodation, Peter has also developed an olive processing facility that handles the production of extra While living in Europe where he was employed virgin olive oil, table olives and other olive products. Adina also provides harvesting and as Worldwide Director of Marketing for Lexmark, Peter O’Meara took the opportunity processing services for other olive producers to pursue one of his lifetime passions and set in the Hunter Valley and in 2012 completed the construction of an enlarged olive mill that about learning a great deal about the French expanded the olive processing capacity in the wine industry. In 2003 he and his wife Helen valley several times over. Peter's aim is to turn purchased a 130 acre vineyard in Lovedale this new facility into a centre of excellence known as Remo’s vineyard and renamed it for olives in the Hunter Valley - providing a Adina Vineyard. Today Adina Vineyard is their focal point for educational and promotional home with 40 acres of vineyard and over activities to enhance the status of olives in 2000 olive trees. the region.

Far from sitting back and enjoying the quieter At Adina, Peter is very much a part of the life, Peter immediately set about upgrading business and can be found at the cellar door the facilities by developing a new modern cellar door complex that includes a restaurant talking about his wine and providore business and promoting unique food products sold and 4 star tourist accommodation. Today under the Hunter Providore label. the Adina operation has developed into an

Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove Wine, Dine, Stay & Play...

& Olive Grove

More than a vineyard, Adina is a very popular destination for visitors to the Hunter Valley. With easy access from Sydney and Newcastle via the M15 Hunter Expressway, Adina has it all — fantastic wines, beautiful olive and providore products, 4 + star accommodation, Emerson’s restaurant and Reflections Day Spa. Stop by the cellar door and taste our award-winning wines in the company of our friendly and knowledgeable staff. You can also sample and buy a wide range of olive providore products.

Enjoy a welcoming coffee with magnificent views over the vineyard. And if you are planning an overnight stay we cater for couples and families in great comfort.

We have everything you need to enjoy a great stay.

We look forward to hosting you when next you visit.

ADDRESS 492 Lovedale Road, Lovedale OPEN Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am - 5pm PH (02) 4930 7473 W www.adinavineyard.com.au

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD

Oishii Japanese Thai Restaurant Australia’s only Asian restaurant in a winery!

Located at the Tempus Two winery, in the heart of the Hunter Valley, Oishii has become a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Whether dining inside the minimalist Asian themed dining hall or on the outside undercover terrace overlooking the vines encircling the architecturally designed amphitheatre, Oishii has become a “must dining experience”.

Oishii’s Asian chefs have composed an extensive menu of lightly prepared fragrant dishes showcasing regional produce. In true Asian style dishes are perfect for sharing and ideal for families and friends.

The fast take away options are also delicious.

ADDRESS Tempus Two Winery, Corner of Broke and Mcdonald Rd’s, Pokolbin RESTAURANT 7 Days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7051 W www.oishii.com.au 36 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Tempranillo | Nebbiolo | Sangiovese Get your taste for adventure today at ...Pokolbin Estate.

Pokolbin Estate | 298 McDonalds Rd, Pokolbin Open 7 Days 9am-5pm | PH 4998 7524 | www.pokolbinestate.com.au

INTOUCH HOME

BETTER LIVING

BY DESIGN

Deborah Bartlett & Chris Williams from insideout.

If texture (not pattern) is your thing then you’ll love wallpapers with embossed prints that can then be painted over. These look great when used on a ceiling, emulating the look of embossed tin that was often used in older homes.

Don’t let those terrible wallpaper removal experiences stop you from considering wallpaper to add some personality or a much-needed lift to your home renovation or interior makeover.

For modern homes, wallpapers can give the warmth of natural timbers, stone or marble while still retaining the clean, neutral lines – the hallmark of modern design. Grass-cloth wallpaper is also a great way to add texture and warmth to a sterile looking area. Woven grass-cloths are a great way of unifying wall space along a multi-story staircase.

With new technology, wallpaper is simpler to use than ever before. The new “paste-the-wall" technique of hanging wallpaper means that these days wallpaper is much easier to remove and you can change your look more often.

Consider the view from other rooms. Does it compliment the colours and design from the adjoining areas? Areas such as hallways, powder rooms, bedrooms, studies and formal areas (where less time is spent) use bolder patterns or colours to set your style. Little else is needed in the room to decorate.

The advanced printing techniques of today have also enabled the introduction of a larger range of colour palettes, patterns and images available to use in your interior design.

Some companies even offer you the opportunity to customize your colours and designs. Armed with good information and advice you can find the right wallpaper for you.

What is your preferred natural style? Traditional or modern? There is a style to suit, so don’t force yourself to use something that doesn’t totally feel “you.”

Look through images of wallpapers and collect the colours and patterns that stand out for you.

With this in mind, it can help you to outline what you like, geometrics, florals or natural timbers, stone or a beautiful scene.

Then take into consideration the age and style of the home you reside in. Wallpaper, especially for older homes, can bring the classic personality of an older home back to life. Many prints are created with the 1940’s and 1950’s in mind and wallpaper is also a handy way to cover some wall imperfections.

now @ insideout

WALLPAPER IS BACK!

Credit: Brent Fletcher at www.realestate.com.au

In living areas where a lot of time is spent, a subtler treatment ensures you can change the look with cushions, rugs, throws, artwork or accessories. When wallpapering a few areas, you should stick to a common theme.

With professional advice, this can be easily achieved.

Also readily available today are wallpaper “murals.” Cities of the world look great in a modern bedroom. Visit London, Paris, New York or anywhere else you would like to go in your dreams! Large scale prints of maps or walls full of books for the study are also a great choice.

The options are endless!

Finally, consider using wallpaper as art. When you feel that “something is missing” from a room or that your space needs colour or interest, consider wallpaper.

Some companies have fantastic prints that can be customized to fit the exact wall area and give the same impression as a piece of art.

Don’t be afraid to give it a go! Wallpaper is an instant facelift to any room.

192 Parry Street, Newcastle West, NSW 2302 t 02 4962 5577 f 02 4962 5588 w www.insideoutstyle.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37

INTOUCH HOME

20 YEARS

of friendly, helpful service

Homeworld Furniture has been established in Newcastle and the Hunter Region for 30 years. It is a family owned business that started off in small stores that some of us will remember as 'The Pine Doctor' and has grown into the large warehouses of today.

the original company as The Pine Doctor thirty years ago. The stores were all small, but when they opened the Warners Bay warehouse twenty years ago, it was the only furniture store in Warners Bay and the largest in their, then five store chain.

Mary-Ann says that the furniture they sell has changed a lot over the years. “In the beginning, it was nearly all Australian made, most was left in its raw state and the customers used to paint it or stain it. Nowadays, any furniture that is made overseas is usually stained or painted before it is imported” she said.

David said that in the early days, with smaller warehousing, they were unable to fit lounges on display, but larger premises have allowed them to expand into this area and they are now able to display a large range of upholstered furniture. This has included a new range of sofas that are built for the American market with “No Sag Spring” seats and with fabrics and styles that represent outstanding value.

“We still have Australian made furniture, including Sealy and Sleepmaker bedding, and our melamine furniture is made locally by Euroform Industries that supply Australia wide” David said.

There is one store located at Heatherbrae that services Port Stephens, Rutherford and the Hunter Valley. A second store located at Warners Bay services Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and the Central Coast. Both stores stock a huge range of timber and upholstered furniture.

This month the Warners Bay store celebrates it’s 20th birthday and we asked owners David and Mary-Ann about the changes they have seen in the furniture business over the last 30 years.

David and Mary-Ann Parnell are both local Newcastle people and David's father started

David & Mary-Ann may have seen plenty of changes to their Warners Bay store over twenty years but agree that their commitment to customers remains.

“Our motto has always been "Affordable Family Furniture" and we are now serving 2nd generation customers that remember coming into our store with their parents when they were kids. We still believe in looking after our customers with a friendly, helpful and informative approach and by providing quality, value for money product.”

OPEN 7 DAYS

2/305 Hillsborough Rd, Warners Bay PH 4954 3955 2364 Pacific Hwy, Heatherbrae PH 4987 4513

www.homeworldfurniture.com.au

Happy Birthday Homeworld! For more information visit the website at www.homeworldfurniture.com.au

PLANTATION TIMBER FURNITURE Looking for quality, yet affordable furniture made from beautiful Australian plantation hardwood that is hand made locally?

Looking for furniture that’s fresh and contemporary, where you can have your own design ideas created?

Look no further than Wildflower Giftware!

Open 6 Days Monday to Saturday 9am till 4.30pm.

262 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay NSW 2282 • PH 4953 7390 • www.w 38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

Wild encounters in the heart of the city WORDS: Michelle Meehan Have you ever wanted to get up close and personal with a python or stroke the scales of a blue-tongued lizard? Well, make sure you check out Newcastle’s ever popular Blackbutt Reserve, where a ‘wild’ new addition is giving visitors the chance to do just that.

After 12 months of construction – hampered by the discovery of an old mine shaft that had to be capped – the Carnley Avenue venue now boasts a new Wildlife Arena and amenities block.

The arena provides an outdoor classroom environment enhanced by state-of-the-art audio visual technology worth $10,000, installed following a generous donation from Orica Kooragang Island’s Community Investment Program.

It will allow the Reserve to host tourist groups, school trips and events in a more interactive way, building on its strong program of work educating the community about the 250 animals who call Blackbutt home.

The first of those to benefit from the upgrade were students from New Lambton Public School, who took part in the facility’s official opening.

Since then there have been plenty of other locals and tourists who have experienced the excitement of the Wildlife Arena, which now also plays host to a weekly reptile show.

Blackbutt Reserve

Reserve, which has been exhibiting captive wildlife since the first enclosures were built on the Lookout Road area of the site in the 1960s.

These days more than 250 animals including birds, mammals and reptiles live within its multi-award winning wildlife exhibits, with the newest additions including a 3.3m long female Olive Python, a noisy pair of Barking Geckos and a fascinating Krefft’s River Turtle.

Come see what's new!

Other longer-term residents include everything from parrots, owls, doves and swans to rock wallabies, wombats, possums and kangaroos.

Interpretative signage located along the wheelchair and pram-friendly boardwalk provide an opportunity for visitors to observe the fauna and learn about each species.

Of course, there are more reasons to visit Blackbutt Reserve than just the chance to be wowed by the wildlife.

Shelters a

nd BBQs

Occupying more than 182 hectares of land, it is the perfect place for a relaxing family picnic or to explore the wonders of nature, with children’s playgrounds, picnic areas and barbecue facilities, nature trails and other recreational facilities on offer.

rena life A d l i W

The newly constructed amenities block will also add to its appeal for families, with the welcome addition of a family bathroom and parents’ room, along with male, female and disabled toilets.

But these won’t be the last improvements Novocastrians can expect to see at what is considered the city’s “green heart,” with more than half a million dollars of works being planned for the next financial year.

Presented by Blackbutt’s expert team of rangers each Saturday and Sunday from 11am, and every day of the recent school holidays, the 20 minute show allows attendees to meet, “The construction of the Wildlife Arena and new amenities at Blackbutt realises a vision learn about, and at times interact with some to protect and enhance the unique qualities of of the Reserve’s scaly, slimey and slithery this treasured community asset,” Lord Mayor Cr residents including Diamond Pythons, Nuatali Nelmes said.

Eastern Blue-tongued Lizards and Inland Bearded Dragons.

“It has been 20 years since significant funding was allocated to improve Blackbutt and the Designed as a fun but educational experience future looks very exciting for our much-loved for all ages, the reptile show ($2 per person) green-heart of Newcastle. offers insights into the animals’ behaviours, physiology and habitats.

Of course, if you prefer creatures of the more cuddly and cute variety, the Wildlife Arena is also being used as the location of the Koala encounters ($6 per person), held daily at 2pm.

“Council plans to undertake another $550,000 of works at Blackbutt over the next financial year including planning for an all-age adventure playground at Ritchley Reserve, improving pathways and car parking to compliment the new facilities.

And these are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the animals on offer at Blackbutt

“Blackbutt is a key city revitalisation project.”

Amenities

Building

For more information visit:

www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au 1861JUL15

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY Dr Gary Avery (left) and Dr Nick Moncrieff (right) of Hunter Plastic Surgery

strong feelings about their appearance and how they are perceived due to this. Plastic surgery can be a powerful tool used to alter our appearance and how we feel about ourselves and how others interact with us. As a Plastic Surgeon, I love that my job allows me to help people be both healthy and happy.

What’s your favourite operation? Breast reductions are very rewarding because they can truly change a woman’s life. So many of my breast reduction patients tell me afterwards that they are back to living the life they haven’t been able to for years, sometimes decades, because the pain and embarrassment of large breasts has stopped them doing so much. Many of these women have suffered in silence with back and neck pain caused by the strain of large breasts, so it is a fantastic operation.

BEYOND FACE VALUE

THE EVERYDAY REALITY OF PLASTIC SURGERY When you hear the term “plastic surgery”, images of Hollywood celebrities and reality TV stars often come to mind. In fact, the definition of Plastic Surgery is “the process of reconstructing or repairing parts of the body by the transfer of tissue, either in the treatment of injury or for cosmetic reasons.” So it’s not just all about aesthetics and “cosmetic surgery” is just the tip of the plastic surgery iceberg! This month we talked to Newcastle Plastic Surgeon, Dr Gary Avery about the “non-Hollywood” side of plastic surgery.

What kind of surgery do you do? A very broad range. As you might expect, given Newcastle’s outdoor lifestyle, I see a large number of patients with skin cancer. While general practitioners often manage smaller cancers, I see the most serious cases often involving extensive reconstructions. I’ll work anywhere from the top of the head to the tips of the toes but particularly the cosmetically sensitive areas such as the nose, face, lip and ears.

In terms of cosmetic procedures, I perform a large number of breast reductions and augmentations, abdominoplasty and rhinoplasty. I also offer breast reconstructions for women postmastectomy or as part of preventative surgery where they have tested positive for the breast cancer gene.

I perform hand surgery for common hand conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, in which a large nerve is compressed at the wrist affecting the feeling in the fingers and also emergency surgery at the John Hunter following trauma alongside some of my Orthopaedic colleagues.

What’s your role in emergency cases? I work at the John Hunter Hospital as a Plastic Surgeon and Hand and Microsurgeon. Hand injuries can include broken bones, cut nerves or tendons, serious infections and, of course, the 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

extreme such as complete amputation of a finger, thumb or hand. Most people don’t realise this, but Plastic Surgeons like myself are trained to perform the repair of blood vessels, tendons, bones and nerves required to help people return to work and back to normal life as soon as possible.

As a Plastic Surgeon I am able to help patients with injuries to other areas of the body particularly working with orthopaedic surgeons treating people with skin and muscle loss or nerve injury associated with significant trauma and broken bones.

Often this involves skin grafting or even more involved surgery moving one part of the body to another.

Sometimes these cases involve creative solutions so I’ve had to perform surgery to attach a hand to a thigh to get skin to grow over the hand where skin has been lost in an accident and then weeks later separate the areas again. Makes life pretty challenging for the patient during that week as you can imagine!

Why did you go into Plastic Surgery? I have always enjoyed science and helping people – being a surgeon allows me to do both. I worked with burn victims as a medical student and found it very confronting. I could only imagine what this would be like for the patient. Plastic Surgeons were involved in treating burn victims and this set me on the path of plastic surgery training where I have had the opportunity to work with amazing, inspiring people and have the privilege of providing help to so many. Plastic surgery involves restoring form or appearance and function, often the results are clearly on-show, so I’m always aware of the importance of the final appearance of my work.

What are your most challenging cases? Any case on any day can be difficult. I do more than one thousand operations a year but for each of those operations it may be that persons first operation. The challenge is to do my very best to achieve the best possible result in the safest manner possible, and this holds true for emergency surgery, treating cancer and elective surgery.

In emergency surgery, people can feel vulnerable and powerless, and it can turn their life upside down. In elective procedures particularly cosmetic surgery, people may have

"I also love helping children. I spent a year at the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne working with a fabulous Plastic Surgery Department. It is very rewarding to improve a child’s appearance through surgery and give them a fair shot at life that might otherwise be tough through no fault of their own."

A common operation such as pinning back protruding ears, generally done in the early school years and can help those first years go more smoothly as kids can be pretty harsh to those they see as different. The big smiles we get after surgery make all the hard work worthwhile.

Do you offer public hospital surgery? Yes. Dr Moncrieff and I are the only Plastic Surgeons providing a public service in Newcastle, and we perform a variety of skin cancer and breast reconstruction procedures. I have also recently started offering a “no-gap” breast reconstruction service given the length of the public waiting list.

I think one of the challenges we have in Newcastle is growing the plastic surgery service. We are very proud of the work we can do in the public hospital system, but we know that more could be done. In the longer term, it would be great to see more Plastic Surgeons move to Newcastle so cases such as birth anomalies, significant burns or facial lacerations and many other conditions could be attended to locally by those, like myself, who specialise in the area.

What about the person who wants to look like a celebrity or wants something over the top? I’d have to say that in Newcastle, that isn’t a huge issue, unlike some of the examples my colleagues in capital cities report. Novocastrians tend to be somewhat grounded and realistic. Where I don’t feel a requested procedure would be healthy for the patient or meets their expectations, in the long run, I will offer alternatives but occasionally I’ve had to simply refuse to operate.

How long have you been in Newcastle? I moved here to join Dr Moncrieff at Hunter Plastic Surgery in early 2013. The move has been great not only because I really enjoy the work I do in Newcastle, but the lifestyle is excellent for my family. Where else can you be on the beach and 30 minutes later scrubbed in and ready to operate?!

Have more questions? See Hunter Plastic Surgery’s website www.hunterplasticsurgery.com.au or call their friendly team!

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

New residency opportunity for emerging writer Emerging writers from regional Australia are invited to apply for an exciting new twoweek residency being offered at The LockUp, Newcastle, in the lead up to next year’s Newcastle Writers Festival.

The successful applicant will be given two weeks’ accommodation in a self-contained apartment at The Lock-Up, a contemporary inner-city arts space in the historic East End, as well as a $1,400 stipend from the Newcastle Writers Festival. The resident will also have the opportunity to participate in the festival, which last year attracted more than 5,500 people to the city. The residency is supported by The Lock-Up and the University of Newcastle.

Opportunities for regional writers are hard to come by and writing can be an isolating experience. The festival’s aim is to create a sense of community while promoting literature and the exchange of ideas. The residency is an extension of this and is open to regional writers Australia-wide.

"Not only does it offer the successful applicant some breathing space to write, it also gives them a great chance to engage with the community at the Newcastle Writers Festival.”

CERTIFICATE III IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CARE DIPLOMA OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION & CARE

Writers who have not had a book commercially published and who are working towards a fulllength work in any genre are invited to apply.

Applications will be assessed by Newcastle Writers Festival Director Rosemarie Milsom, Keri Glastonbury (University of Newcastle) and Sam Twyford-Moore (Director, Emerging Writers Festival).

The residency period is from 22 April to 4 May, 2016. Applicants must reside in a regional area, defined by state and federal departments as areas outside metropolitan centres. It excludes cities with populations of more than 100,000.

42 STATION ST, WARATAH | PH 4938 7200 TO FIND A CHILDCARE CENTRE NEAR YOU VISIT WWW.TILLYSCHILDCARE.COM.AU

Submissions opened on Wednesday, July 1 and close on October 1, 2015. The successful applicant will be notified by November 30. Visit www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au for conditions of entry and an application form.

Enquiries can be emailed to admin@newcastlewritersfestival.org.au

New NBN program for younger viewers So There! is a new half hour television program produced by NBN Television, well known for its locally produced programs and has been developed for younger viewers (8 - 14 years) for telecast on GO! (Channel 88) in the Newcastle/Hunter Region.

Over the years NBN has produced a variety of local programs and was, and is still today, well respected by the industry and our viewers for the quality of our productions. This program gives our aspiring young talent of the region an opportunity to work on a locally produced program.”

The program, produced by long serving NBN producer Kerryn “It’s been very rewarding for the NBN crew and I to work on this Scully, was inspired by the successful NBN News’ Junior Journo project and we’ve been truly inspired by the talent of all the series. NBN’s Junior Journo’s take NBN News into a select kids involved. I’ve been producing programs for NBN for over number of schools in the Newcastle/Hunter and now Tamworth 20 years and the local talent we have in this region still amazes regions. It gives students the opportunity to work both on air me” - Kerryn Scully and behind the camera to produce News feature stories on their school, that are then telecast on NBN’s Evening So There! has something for everyone (even the young at News Bulletin. heart) from News and sport to cooking and live in-studio performances by local talent, including the well-known School Due to the great success of the Junior Journos series NBN’s of Rock. Program content is generated by kids with young CEO Deborah Wright said “I was keen to support the expansion presenters interviewing celebrities and enjoying the chance to of this concept into an entertaining, yet informative, half hour be a guest host. Young people doing amazing things are also series produced locally both for and by Middle School aged featured. The program aims to be a positive celebration of the students (with some help from our very experienced NBN team). good things out there for young people.

Students from Rosie's School of Rock

The series of 8 episodes went to air late July on GO! Newcastle/ Hunter - airing at 12 noon on Sundays. The program is hosted

by NBN’s well-respected and experienced Renee Fedder, who in addition to quality news journalism, has an extensive background in the performing arts.

So There! includes innovative segments such as ‘Pet-Selfies’ and ‘What’s Happening’ for young people in the region and offers a huge element of interaction with our viewers. A ‘Game of the Week’ review also keeps viewers updated on the latest gaming trends. So There! is proud to partner with Hunter Valley Zoo near Cessnock for an exciting weekly segment called ‘Animal of the Week’ featuring the exceptional talent of Danielle Rae. So There! - catch it Sundays at 12 noon GO Newcastle/Hunter. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41

INTOUCH FAMILY AND COMMUNITY

Hamilton Medical Centre Your Family GP Medical Practice

OPEN 8.30AM - 5.30PM

MONDAY - FRIDAY Dr Charles Hinder Dr Peter Michalski

Nurse, Dietitian, and Psychologist Available • Aged Care • Antenatal Care • Children's Health • Driving and Insurance Medicals • Diabetes • Family Medicine • Workcover

• Health Assessments • Mental Health Assessments • Immunisation • Men's Health • Musculoskeletal • Skin Cancer • Women's Health

Located upstairs corner of Lindsay and Beaumont Streets 59 - 61 Lindsay Street, Hamilton NSW 2303

New Patients Welcome!

Bulk Billing Available for Seniors and Children

PH 49611713 • 24 HR Online Booking! www.hamiltonmedical.com.au

PREHISTORIC NEWCASTLE COMES ALIVE! The Newcastle Time Walk – a stroll back through 300 million years!

Rocks of the Newcastle area tell us much about past climates and landscapes. A diversity of geological features is particularly evident along our spectacular coastline with the coastal cliffs being made up of the “Newcastle Coal Measures” a part of the Sydney Basin sequence. These rocks formed from sand and mud deposited in rivers and swamps in the late Permian (about 255 million years ago). Later uplift and erosion has resulted in the topography we see today - the headlands, beaches and rock platforms.

Each outcrop feeds into a better understanding of how the Earth and landscapes around Newcastle have evolved over the last 300 million years. There’s evidence of volcanic activity, past life forms, changing geography, ancient swamps, coal deposits, climate change and extensive weathering.

On Sunday the 23rd of August (from 9am), members of the public will have the opportunity to be field geologists for a morning.

Join “real” geologists on a slow-paced, 3km walk along the Newcastle foreshore, from Nobbys Beach to the Bogey Hole.

Participants will be visiting many spectacular geological features, with the excursion expected to run for about 3-4 hours. Walkers will be encouraged to make individual 42 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

observations and interpret how environments have changed over millions of years.

Apart from registered attendees, passers-by will be encouraged to join (all or part of) the expedition on the day. It will be free, and participants will receive written material about the geology of Newcastle.

Participants will meet outside Nobby's Surf Club then walk to Nobbys Head, where a spectacular volcanic dyke can be examined, and distant views of 360 million-year-old volcanic rocks appreciated. The rock platform reveals 90 million-yearold volcanic dykes that have intruded the Permian sedimentary sequence.

Continuing along the coast, the sedimentary layers of the Permian Newcastle Coal Measures sequence are evident along the cliffs. They sometimes reveal coal layers and shales containing plants fossils — remnants of forests that were throughout Gondwana over 250 million years ago. Beach deposits tell different stories, with evidence of past sea-level changes and recent offshore volcanic activity. The coastline is constantly changing and sands shifting. Though largely due to natural events, sometimes man has caused changes such as the formation of Nobbys Beach!

MORE INFORMATION This event is being run by the Geological Survey of NSW (NSW Department of Industry). Other geoscientists will assist. An Australian Government grant through the Inspiring Australia initiative is helping fund the event.

To register for this unique event visit www.timewalk2015.eventbrite.com.au

Lake Macquarie Running Festival The Lake Macquarie Half Marathon commenced in 1984 and this year will see the 31st consecutive running of the event. In 2010 the event was renamed the Lake Macquarie Running Festival to embrace the growing nature of the event, which was expanded to include a 10.5km Fun Run and 4km Kids Scamper.

Lake Macquarie Running Festival has previously enjoyed over 2800 runners and will this year run on Sunday the 30th of August. The festival is well positioned within the running calendar to take advantage of the Sydney Marathon that will be held a few weeks later and Sydney’s City To Surf held a few weeks prior.

The festival is designed to enable the broader community and families to compete while also attracting athletes of an international standard. Previous competitors have included Steve Moneghetti and triathlete Kristin Molloy, as well as local international stair runner Angela Leadbeatter.

This years event also sees the inclusion of fundraising for thoses competitors who wish use the event to raise funds for charity.

The scenic course follows The Esplanade at Warners Bay and is adjacent to the beautiful foreshore of Lake Macquarie. It is a multi loop course that is completely free of traffic.

For more information about races, entry and the course map visit www.lakemacrunning.com

INTOUCH FEATURE FINANCE ROSSAND NOBLE MONEY

Whatever you believe... you experience.

How will you ever see yourself as abundant, if you don’t believe that you’re abundant?

The starting point, as with all things, is to first see yourself as lovable, valuable and okay, despite what things look or feel like. Then start seeing abundance in all things. Start thinking and behaving like you are abundant. Do it in small ways to start – the size is irrelevant.

It is the energy behind the act that makes the difference.

By Richard Ford

You are invited to an intimate lunch and on the couch one-on-one interview session with two amazing, passionate and inspiring people who have found a way to connect their life’s purpose to their businesses.

Friday 21 August, 12.30 till 2pm at Surfhouse Merewether Tickets: $70 per person (includes canapés & complimentary drink) Visit rethinkfinancial.com.au/events to secure your ticket.

Cassandra Kavanagh (‘Little Big Boss’, Rethink Financial Group) and Vanessa Stoykov (CEO, evolution media & TV Presenter & Co-creator of The Bottom Line) will share with you how they’ve managed to connect with their life purpose and integrate that into their businesses and personal life.

rethinkfinancial.com.au

A simple yet extremely powerful belief, acceptance of which can create powerful shifts Then see yourself as abundant from this place. within you and what you experience in your life. From this point, start acting out your belief. You can do it in small ways. The size is irrelevant and the universe doesn’t care. It is the energy Seeing yourself as abundant is based on this fundamental principle. Over the years many behind the act that makes the difference. spiritual and self-development books have Give away abundance of praise, assistance, delivered the same message. Choose the life you wish to experience. There is a catch support and love. Give away some money, though, and that is the energy sitting behind or clothes or food. Anything, it doesn’t matter – it will come back to you. In many ways. underneath the choice or belief.

If you choose abundance from a place of fear or from a belief “that you haven’t got enough” you will not create or experience abundance, but you will experience more of “not enough.”

The universal law is that you need to choose abundance to recieve abundance. Abundance comes to those who already have it. It sounds unfair, however this is the way it works.

“Each of us is a magnet! And as a magnet, you do not have to force success and prosperity to yourself. Instead, you can develop that exalted, expectant, prosperous state of mind that is a magnet for all good things of the universe.”

Catherine Ponder, The Dynamic Laws of Prosperity. Rethink your possibilities.

A Gift to the City: The Roland Pope Collection Comprised of art, artefacts and literature from the Newcastle Art Gallery and Newcastle Region Library collections, this exhibition celebrates the 70th anniversary of Dr Roland Pope's significant gift to the city in 1945. His donation was the catalyst for the building of our cultural institutions and decades of cultural benefaction to Newcastle.

THE ROLAND POPE ART DONATION

"Pope assembled a magnificent library of natural history titles with an emphasis on ornithology," said Suzie Gately, Manager, Newcastle Region Library. "Birds were a long-time passion of Pope's gift included more than 120 works of art. These the collector and this is a collection built on knowledge and included works by such artists as Jean Bellette, Ethel Carrick expertise. Its scope extends across all continents and many Fox, Elioth Gruner, Sali Herman, Hans Heysen, Sydney Long, Max Meldrum, Thea Proctor, Alison Rehfisch, David Strahan and famous names in ornithology."

Lloyd Rees, Arthur Streeton and Roland Wakelin - some of the "The outstanding collection of Gould’s Birds is the jewel in a key artists in the Newcastle Art Gallery collection today. gift which has many highlights."

One such work, Russell Drysdale's The crow trap 1941 was purchased from Macquarie Galleries, Sydney in 1942.

A Sydney based ophthalmologist, one time cricketer for Australia and a notable collector of Australian art and literature, Pope made a large scale donation to Newcastle from his collection with the requirement that a library and art gallery be "The works are eclectic, reflecting the taste of an astute built for the city. In 1957, five years after Pope's death, the War collector of art, who purchased works by some of Australia's Memorial Cultural Centre opened to house Newcastle Region most eminent artists of the time," said Lauretta Morton, Library, and in 1977 the purpose built Gallery we know today Manager, Newcastle Art Gallery. opened next door.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Cr Nuatali Nelmes said the city owes a debt of gratitude to Pope.

"Clearly, Dr Pope was a man of vision and he saw that same visionary spirit in Newcastle," said the Lord Mayor. "Although he had no connection here, he knew that Newcastle had the makings of a great city and that every great city needs thriving cultural institutions. There is no doubt that our city would have developed those institutions at some point in our history, but that time came much sooner due to Dr Pope's generous gift and his interest in our future."

This exhibition acknowledges the legacy of a single man who contributed much to the development of culture in the Hunter region. Housed across both venues; A gift to the City will showcase the breadth of this significant donation.

"Pope was a regular client of Macquarie Galleries in the 1930s-40s, sometimes purchasing works of art on a weekly, fortnightly and monthly basis. His choice of works reflected the diverse stable of artists that Macquarie represented at that time."

THE ROLAND POPE LITERATURE DONATION

DUAL EXHIBITIONS

• Newcastle Art Gallery, the Roland Pope art collection, 15 August - 1 November 2015 • Newcastle Region Library, the Roland Pope literary collection, 15 August - 31 October 2015. Take home a free exhibition brochure, available at both venues.

Left: Jerrold Nathan Portrait of Dr Roland Pope (1944) oil on canvas Purchased 1946.

Newcastle Art Gallery collection

The significant collection of books gifted by Pope reflected his wide-ranging interests. Highlighting his sporting passion, the impressive range of cricket books cover a period from the 1860s to the 1940s. Pope not only loved sport but also good living and the finer things of life. The collection includes books on food and wine, architecture, gardens, ballet, art, music, etiquette and the theatre. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43

A Quality Lifestyle 8A Burwood Rd - Whitebridge Situated in the unique and beautiful surrounds of Whitebridge, this exceptional 4 bedroom coastal retreat is designed to take full advantage of its exquisite location and all within a short stroll to one of Newcastle’s most beautiful beaches.

The Residence •Pristine single level residence with exquisite attention to detail •High ornate ceilings (3m) •Generously proportioned living rooms designed to reflect an easy yet luxurious lifestyle •A spacious master suite including walk-in robe and generous en-suite •Double bedrooms and study/office with the emphasis on space.

•Outdoor entertaining areas overlook a superb in-ground pool with a bushland backdrop •All the creature comforts including ducted air conditioning The Property •Gently undulating 2.916 Ha (7 acres) approximately land holding •Equestrian friendly with two stables, round yard, shed and paddock, •Significant landscaped gardens and grounds •Easy 5 minute stroll to Dudley beach through Glenrock State Reserve •Private drive access to this secluded location This prestigious property has something for everyone and is the perfect option for those looking for a tranquil resort-like family retreat.

Expressions of Interest are sought by Andrew Walker from Street Property Group – Newcastle. PH 4926 3933 or 0402 009 532

NEWCASTLE 4926 3933 285-287 Hunter Street

8A Burwood Rd - Whitebridge

Bilgavia Estate Sprawling over 60 hectares of productive river flats and multiple titles, this integrated horse stud, grazing property and vineyard features a massive homestead and weatherboard guest cottage with in-ground pool and flood-lit tennis court.

• Ultra-modern home sits among manicured gardens overlooking a 20m infinity-edge lap pool • Massive open plan living space with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows • Modern galley kitchen with walk-in-pantry and cool room and adjoining wine cellar • American Oak floorboards lead to a library/reading room and three large guest or family bedrooms • Master suite with spectacular views, two walk-in robes and large open-plan ensuite First Rate Stud Infrastructure: • Open air six box stable barn with breezeway, wash bay and feed room • Turf track and post-and-rail day yards • Cattle-yards, machinery sheds, feed sheds and hay sheds The Vineyard • A total of 20 hectares of eight different varietals • Four large earth dams and an irrigation allocation from the Hunter River

People you can depend on Jurd's Real Estate Shop 3, 115 Vincent Street Cessnock NSW 2325 P (02) 4991 4000 | F (02) 4991 4900 E properties@jurds.com.au 44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

INTOUCH FEATURE PROPERTY ROSS AND NOBLE REAL ESTATE But, you’ve got to make wise investments.

Sure, you may make some SERIOUS cash in pre-construction, but what happens if (no, not if – when) the market shifts and there are suddenly 35 identical properties on the market for sale in the same building? How long can you afford to carry a negative cash flow on the property?

Or how about taking over property ‘subject to’? Sure, it’s a great strategy and lenders may be inclined to turn the other way and not exercise the “due on sale” clause as long as the interest rates are at rock bottom prices.

7 Steps to Real Estate Investing Whether you are brand new to real estate investing or an expert in the game, it’s critical that you understand these 7 Simple Steps to real estate investing.

First things first… i. Real Estate is NOT a get rich quick scheme.

However, if you learn the foundations and put them into practice, you will make more than enough money to realise any and all of your dreams and goals. ii. The real estate bubble is not going to burst! The real estate market will, however, shift and the real estate market will evolve and changeover time – just as it always has!

What’s “hot” now may turn ice cold in the next 3 years (or perhaps even 3 months). But, there are ways to “bubble proof” your real estate investments. It’s actually quite simple.

Did you know that in Australia, in 1975, the median home price was $28,100 (Sydney: $34,300)? In 1982, the median home price was $53,100 (Sydney: $79,500) and in 2003 is was $260,800 (Sydney: $454,250).

Historically, the average home doubled in value every 7 years - which was certainly the case with the Sydney property market.

OK… Now, having said that… The real estate market WILL change and what is “working” today in real estate may not in the future…

The rental market was strong a decade ago, but has been soft in recent years. We are getting ready for a turn once again.

Real Estate IS a cycle… and cycles have some degree of predictability. With predictability, you can grow your real estate business into a cash-producing, profit-pulling machine that runs itself WITH the changing real estate market trends. It is still possible to make money in real estate. In fact, now is just as good a time as any to get started in real estate investing.

What this means is simply that you must be experienced in the basics – the tried and true techniques, strategies and systems that have worked in the past, are STILL working and will work in the future. You’ve got to have all the tools in your bag so that you can go with the flow and not be affected when real estate markets begin to shift.

STEP 1: Set your plan: Figure out what your long term real estate goals are (aka retirement and wealth building) and figure out what your short term needs are with regard to making money in real estate. Then, set up the proper entities and put the plan in place.

STEP 2: Determine what your target market will be: You cannot be all things to all real estate markets. If foreclosures appeal to you, start investing in the foreclosure market. If you want to be a landlord, look to out of state owners to focus your real estate marketing efforts.

STEP 3: Be consistent and persistent: Real Estate is not a get rich quick scheme. Real Estate is get wealthy over time and put some quick cash in your pocket today. You’ve got to follow your plan and stick with it to see real results in real estate. You’ve also got to continue to increase your education and your experience.

STEP 4: Don’t fall into the “Analysis Paralysis”: Learn to analyse properties quickly. Don’t get caught up overthinking. It’s quite simple actually: What’s the property worth? What does the property need for repairs? And how much can you get the property for? It all comes down to numbers!

Step 5: Become a master of finance!: Real estate is the business of marketing and finance. You must learn about mortgages and interest rates and loan programs that are out there. You must know how to use finance to negotiate your deals and to sell your properties.

STEP 6: Become a skilled problem solver: The reason you will get real estate deals that others don’t is because you are able to solve people’s problems. Anything goes on the real estate playing field. You’ve got to be ready!

Step 7: You must continue your education: It is important that you are always investing in your education and learning new tactics, strategies and tips that will help you make more in real estate.

Sales heat up at Heaton Park Mark Kentwell, Manging Director, PRDNationwide.

A boutique townhome project on the doorstep of the University of Newcastle has struck a chord with buyers, leaving just four homes remaining for sale.

Heaton Park Place, developed by locally based Koslow Property Group and marketed

by PRDnationwide Newcastle and Lake Macquarie, comprises a collection of eight designer townhomes priced from $440,000.

Heaton Park Place’s townhomes feature three large bedrooms plus study nook, open plan lounge and kitchen and a lock-up garage, with approximately 115sqm of internal living space plus a balcony and outdoor entertaining area.

Rental appraisals suggest approximate returns of $450 per week unfurnished and up to $560 per week furnished and leased per room.

Marketing agent Mark Kentwell says the The homes are under construction and due for townhomes are a cut above competing completion by the end of 2015. product and feature quality finishes, ducted air conditioning and stone bench tops.

Koslow Property Group specialises in boutique residential projects and recently completed "This means they will cater to discerning end a townhome development at 240 Newcastle users but are also attractive to investors who Street, Jesmond. will be able to attract high calibre tenants," he said.

Heaton Park Place is located at 18-20 Street, Jesmond.

"The location is also a major selling point, being just under a kilometre from the For more information or to inspect, contact University of Newcastle’s Callaghan campus Mark Kentwell from PRDnationwide Newcastle and 600 metres from Stockland Mall." and Lake Macquarie on 4926 0600.

"Newcastle CBD and its nightlife, bars and beaches are just 16 minutes away and the final stage of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass will link the area to John Hunter Hospital."

"With just 50 per cent of the initial offering left for sale, we expect an imminent sell-out."

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 45

INTOUCH FEATUREDREAM ROSS NOBLE HOME

DREAM HOME Beachside Bliss at Merewether An inspired, award-winning Suter's designed renovation of a 1960's bungalow has created a stunning holiday-athome haven with a soothing beachside ambience located just footsteps from the surf and sand of Merewether Beach. Linked together by an idyllic tropical backyard sanctuary, the residence comprises two dual level complementing pavilions, one oriented to the north for the living and bedroom accommodation and the other housing the outstanding entertainment areas of the home.

Sensationally located less that 60metres from the golden sands of Merewether Beach and iconic ocean baths, 9 Janet Street promises a modern luxury lifestyle for families who love to entertain. Little is revealed from the landscaped gardens and modest facade until entering the home.

Once inside the striking open concept living and dining room opens to dramatic garden and pool views through a floor to ceiling glass wall that features large concertina doors connecting to a wide alfresco deck. Also offering an uninterrupted visual flow to the entertainment pavilion is the lustrous quartz stone kitchen. Three of the four bedrooms and the family bathroom also rest on this level, while downstairs you will find separate accommodation comprising a relaxed second living space, bathroom, bedroom and laundry plus internal access from the garage and a large cellar.

Verdant gardens link the main residence to the fully equipped cabana, infinity edged pool and sensational outdoor kitchen designed to suit a modern lifestyle where year round entertaining and relaxing go hand in hand. The lower level of the cabana is essentially a blank canvas providing an array of options including guest accommodation, a games room or multi-purpose space for any member of the family.

Wake to sounds of rolling surf and then simply stroll to a pristine uncrowded coastline with world-class surf breaks, swimming and fishing all on your doorstep. Trendy boutiques, vibrant eateries and some of Newcastle's finest schools are just minutes away.

The property is located at 9 Janet St, Merewether and listed through George Rafty from PRD Nationwide.

Offers over $2.2m are sought.

46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

thinking of downsizing your AreAre youyou thinking of downsizing your home where to start? home butbut notnot suresure where to start?

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We structure your contract so thebuyer “right”isbuyer is secured, marketing your property We structure your contract so the “right” secured, marketing your property its full potential and to aiming align sale of your current property with access to its fulltopotential and aiming alignto the salethe of your current property with access your new Throughout home. Throughout theprocess, entire process, we provide support, guidance to your to new home. the entire we provide support, guidance and communication quality communication with our valued and quality with you, ouryou, valued client. client. ,WâV WLPH IRU \RX WR HQMR\ WKH ðQHU WKLQJV LQ OLIH VR OHDYH LW WR (DV\PRYH DQG ,WâV WLPH IRU \RX WR HQMR\ WKH ðQHU WKLQJV LQ OLIH VR OHDYH LW WR (DV\PRYH DQG PRDnationwide today for consultation. a free consultation. contactcontact PRDnationwide today for a free

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