Newcastle & Lake Macquarie | February 2017

Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

TM

ISSUE #19 //FEBRUARY 2017 WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU

Passion for Club and Community Newcastle Regional Show 2017 Get Behind our Knights Psychic and Lifestyle Expo Surfest 2017 2017 at The Civic Theatre

Lifestyle // Entertainment // Dining // Fashion // Community // Travel // Family // Home // Education // Property // Motoring

THU 13 APR CIVIC THEATRE NEWCASTLE ON SALE NOW 132 849 or TICKETEK.COM.AU © 2016 Temple Dance Productions Limited

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WHAT'S ON //

Season 2017

A Swinging Night of Music!

Ultra Swing’ and without hesitation accepted the offer to perform again this season. Making their debut performance is Daria Walczak and Julian Caillon, dance champions in their own right. Audiences will be enthralled by their interpretation of the music in dance form.

Imagine dancer Christian Fletcher tap dancing down the stairs and across the stage to “Mr. Bojangles” - such a classic number.

Under the direction of Producer/Director Phil Collins (publisher of Hunter & Coastal Magazine), the performances will bring all of your favourite classics from the swing era back to life plus see a few modern numbers given a swing twist which is sure to amaze audiences.

“I have always been proud and passionate about promoting the Hunter – we have so many talented, world-class musicians and entertainers right here in the region. You would go far to see such a professional show, and it’s a credit to everyone from the back of house to the front stage,” said Producer Phil Collins.

“The staging and set are first class and a credit to technician Scott Travis who has been with ‘Ultra Swing’ since its inception. The grand staging and spectacular lighting combine to create an electric energy that stays with patrons long after the curtain falls. You’ll be singing and dancing down Hunter Street at the end.”

Three shows only - Friday 24th February at 8pm and two shows on Saturday 25th February (matinee 2pm and evening 8pm). Tickets are on sale through Civic Ticketek on 4929 1977 or online at www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au. Book now – the tickets are selling fast, this is a show not to be missed!

Subscribe now to receive Big savings

Best seats

Deferred payment Flexibility Drinks discount

For more information or to subscribe, call the Box Office on 02 4929 1977 or visit civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Jasper Jones

VELVET

March 1-4

May + June

Dracula

October 6 + 7

March 17

PROUDLY SUPPORTED BY 2639JAN16

It's back! The musical event that has become an institution of the Newcastle music and theatre scene returns to the Newcastle Civic Theatre for 3 action-packed performances on Friday 24 and Saturday 25 February.

Ultra Swing Lounge is the hugely popular, Hunter-produced fast-paced professional musical show featuring fabulous swing music and a vibrant big band sound that is second to none.

The show continues to “wow” those who grew up with the music, as well as attracting a new generation of younger fans to this popular genre, with the performers creating and refining their own interpretation of the “swing era” - a contemporary slant on the golden classics.

The three lead vocalists are well known to audiences as soloists. Each has their own personality and voice, yet magic happens when the curtain rises and the show begins.

Daniel Stoddart, Steve Hudson and Rob McDougall front the 24-piece strong big band (including a string section) led by Newcastle's favourite maestro Greg Paterson as musical director and pianist.

Daniel, “Mr Showman,” is one of the Hunter’s most well established, seasoned and versatile performers in our region. He is an actor, director, artist, producer, entertainer, singer, business owner, entrepreneur, teacher and writer.

Steve Hudson has a loyal fan base and performs consistently as a featured vocalist (often accompanied by his double bass) at various corporate functions as well as public and community events. Rob Mc Dougall joined the Australian cast of Les Miserables in 2013 in the role of Legles and the Bishop of Digne.

He was also the understudy for the role of Javert, performing a number of times and being the youngest person in the world to do so. When not performing, he is in big demand as a vocal tutor and workshop presenter around NSW. Returning to the stage and adding a touch of glamour and sizzle will be world champion ballroom dancers from the hit TV show, "Dancing with the Stars," Aric Yegudkin and his fiancee Masha Belash who are devotees of

TOP IMAGE Deborah PAAUWE The Escape 2015 giclée print 75.0 x 100.0cm Donated through the Australian Government's Cultural Gifts Program by Susan and John Wardle 2016 Newcastle Art Gallery collection Courtesy the artist and GAGPROJECTS | Greenaway Art Gallery

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 3

INSIDE INTOUCH

From the Editors...

Welcome to our first issue for 2017! There will be drama and dance, classical music and comedy; a feast for the senses featuring the serious to the seriously ridiculous, the thought-provoking to the mind-bending – and everything in between. Before you get too worried – we’re talking about the Civic Theatre 2017 season (not the intouch offices!) This month we delve into the program to pull out our favourite shows for the year – and there’s plenty of them.

You don’t have to delve too much to realise that the psychic, medium and alternative wellbeing industry in Australia is booming! Everyday Australians (not just the weird and whacky or the rainbow striped hippies), but mainstream, ordinary, everyday folk are engaging in what a few centuries ago would have got one burnt at the stake! This is no more evident than in the interest surrounding the shows and expos dedicated to these types of interests, and in this issue, we hear from the organiser of one such event and find out why.

Securing the future of the Knights is a job for more than just the rugby league club’s fans according to one of the men dedicated to keeping the team in Newcastle. Foundation player and Knights life member Rob Tew is one of seven like-minded businessmen who has collectively put forward a community ownership model for the Newcastle club to the NRL. Find out how you too can help keep the Knights in Newcastle.

A footballer of a different kind, Newcastle Jets CEO Lawrie McKinna has certainly earned plenty of respect in both football and political circles over the years. His well-documented sense of humour combined with his friendly nature and his passion for the game unknowingly played a part in the Newcastle Jets being purchased by the Ledman Group last year, and in this issue, we find out more about Lawrie, his plans for the future and his recently released biography.

Newcastle’s all-time favourite family event - the Newcastle Regional Show is just around the corner and this year’s program will be a combination of exciting new additions and familiar favourites. Book tickets early for excellent savings. Enjoy!

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

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

Contacts Publisher & Editors Two Tribes Media Quentin von Essen: quentin@intouchmagazine.com.au Di von Essen: di@intouchmagazine.com.au Phone (02) 4943 0888 Address Suite 4, 2 Smith Street, Charlestown NSW 2290 Web www.intouchmagazine.com.au Email getintouch@intouchmagazine.com.au Advertising Sales Quentin von Essen and Sarah Jane Hannah Distribution Express Letterbox Distribution

Like a dog with a bone - I could see the magic inherent in this important work and wasn’t going to stop pushing till we got the show here.

- PAGE 24

PAGE 28

Contents//

Features 6

Get Moving, Grooving and Shaking with The Next Step

10

At The Markets - Hello Miss May!

12

Lawrie McKinna - Passion for Club and Community

17

Pre-book and Save Big at the Newcastle Regional Show 2017

20

Starting Out or Starting Over?

22

Find Yourself at this Year's CPC Psychic and Lifestyle Expo

24

Terror, Tears and Tomfoolery at the Civic Theatre

30

Ability Beyond Disability

31

Three Steps to Getting Your Mojo Back!

42

Australia's Largest Surfing Festival

43

Get Behind the Newcastle Knights

46

Looking to Build? Look no Further than a Mcloy Community!

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PAGE 39

Regulars 5

Check it Out

8

What’s on Guide

19

Home + Lifestyle

22

Family + Community

28

Fashion + Beauty

30

Health + Wellbeing

32 Travel 34 Eat//Sip//Savour 38

On Your Doorstep

44

Motoring

46

Property

PAGE 12

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!

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

Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen and Carla Elkin Graphic Design Jess Codrington and Larissa Cluff Features Writer Michelle Meehan © Copyright 2017 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.

PAGE 42

ISSUE #19 FEBRUARY 2017

Contributors Lawrie McKinna always knew he wanted to make his living in football. While the aspirations of a five-year-old seldom play out as planned, 50 years after making his bold prediction McKinna is still earning his living from football as the CEO of the Newcastle Jets.

Images: Skeye High Photography. READ MORE ON PG 12

Carla Elkin Di von Essen Therese Ferry Mel Murray Chloe Sullivan Kelsey Moss Lahnee O'Brien

Michelle Meehan Jess Codrington Quentin von Essen Megan O'Sullivan Deborah Bartlett Chris Williams Dana Fischetti Chris Hyde Sonya Todd-Jones Nell Archer Paul Scott Phil Collins Kim-Cherie Davidson

CHECK IT OUT

THE GIRL WITH THE GOLDEN GUITARS Stunning blonde songstress, Lyn Bowtell is one of the most in-demand vocalists in Australian Country Music.

Having won Golden Guitars in previous years, at this year's awards, she was nominated for a total of seven awards and listening to her body of work you are left in no doubt why she is recognised by the industry. She is also molding the next generation of stars as the director of the Country Music Academy. Lyn is reuniting with her first ever band 'Southern Steel' for a stroll down memory lane through their earliest years on the Australian Country Music scene when she performs at Lizottes, Newcastle on Friday, February 17th. For tickets and more information visit www.lizottes.com.au

UPCOMING RACE DAYS BROADMEADOW RACECOURSE SATURDAY 4 FEBRUARY - NJC RACE DAY - SUMMER MENU AT CHEVALS RESTAURANT FROM $69PP MEMBERS AND $79PP NON MEMBERS

THE GREAT WALL

- SUMMER SERIES OF LIVE MUSIC 4:30-6:30PM

We will have to wait until the middle of the month for this release, but from all accounts, it will be well worth the wait. Starring global superstar Matt Damon and directed by one of the most breathtaking visual stylists of our time, Zhang Yimou (Hero, House of Flying Daggers), The Great Wall tells the story of an elite force making a courageous stand for humanity on the world’s most iconic structure.

TUESDAY 7 FEBRUARY - MIDWEEK RACE DAY

When a mercenary warrior (Damon) is imprisoned within The Great Wall, he discovers the mystery behind one of the greatest wonders of our world. As wave after wave of marauding beasts besiege the massive structure, his quest for fortune turns into a journey toward heroism as he joins a vast army of elite warriors to confront this unimaginable and seemingly unstoppable force.

The first English-language production for Yimou is the largest film ever shot entirely in China. The Great Wall also stars Jing Tian, Pedro Pascal, Willem Dafoe and Andy Lau. >> WATCH THE TRAILER HERE (intouch digital at www.intouchmagazine.com.au) >>

A LONG WAY HOME BY SAROO BRIERLEY First, it was a media sensation. Then it became the #1 international bestseller A Long Way Home. Now it’s Lion, a major motion picture starring Dev Patel, Nicole Kidman, and Rooney Mara – and if you’ve seen the movie (highly recommended), then you are probably going to want to read the book.

This is the miraculous and triumphant story of Saroo Brierley, a young man who used Google Earth to rediscover his childhood life and home in an incredible journey from India to Australia and back again.

- FREE ENTRY INTO RACECOURSE AND MEMBERS LOUNGE

THURSDAY 16 FEBRUARY - MIDWEEK RACE DAY - FREE ENTRY INTO RACECOURSE AND MEMBERS LOUNGE

SATURDAY 25 FEBRUARY HAMILTON RUGBY CLUB 50TH ANNIVERSARY RACE DAY - MARK MURPHY LOUNGE - $22 NON-MEMBERS - MEMBERS LOUNGE - $10 MEMBERS AND $66 NON-MEMBERS - SUMMER SERIES OF LIVE MUSIC 4:30-6:30PM

CESSNOCK RACECOURSE TUESDAY 14 FEBRUARY - FREE ENTRY

SAVE THE DATE FRIDAY 17 MARCH NEWCASTLE NEWMARKET RACE DAY

A Long Way Home is a moving, poignant, and inspirational true story of survival and triumph against incredible odds. It celebrates the importance of never letting go of what drives the human spirit: hope. >> WATCH THE TRAILER HERE >> (intouch digital at www.intouchmagazine.com.au)

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FOR FURTHER DETAILS VISIT NJC.COM.AU THINK ABOUT YOUR CHOICES. CALL GAMBLING HELP ON 1800 858 858 OR VISIT WWW.GAMBLINGHELP.NSW.GOV.AU www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 5

What's happening at

Love is in the air this month with Valentine’s Day on Tuesday 14 February!

While the history of Valentine’s Day is mysterious, with several theories regarding its origin, it is customary for lovers of all ages to exchange words of love, gifts and celebrate romance. According to the American Greeting Card Association, an estimated 1 billion cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card sending celebration, after Christmas!

Get Moving, Grooving and Shaking with

THE NEXT STEP!

Whatever your preference, there’s plenty of choice at Charlestown Square. Did you know we have a terrific range of nine jewellers? The centre is home to Angus & Coote, Goldmark, Mathews Jewellers, Michael Hill, Pandora, Simon Curwood Jewellers, Swarovski, Wallace Bishop and Zamels, so you’re sure to find a perfect gift.

Following their 2016 sell out tour, the cast of The Next Step will return to Australia this April in what will be one of the most anticipated live tours of the year. Due to popular demand from local dance fans, The Next Step will be performing in Newcastle for the first time ever at the Civic Theatre on Thursday, April 13th, 2017.

Tickets for all the capital city performances sold out in record time and with tickets for the Newcastle show also selling like hot-cakes, fans are advised to purchase tickets now to avoid disappointment. One thing’s for sure – these tickets are red-hot and will sell out quickly!

Featuring ten of the cast of the hit television series, Disney Channel Presents The Next Step – Live on Stage will be a brand-new show that offers fans a chance to get up close and personal with cast members from the global hit TV show.

The 90-minute stage show features solos, duets, trios and group numbers with choreography by The Next Step’s own Jordan Clark and Trevor Tordjman. Jordan and Trevor have created a whole new show and an immersive live experience for the fans in Australia.

And if you’re looking for something unique, Simon Curwood Jewellers have searched every corner of the world to bring you styles you have never seen. Visit the team who also specialize in custom making anything your heart desires.

Looking for a great night out? Charlestown Square’s amazing value Super Entertainment Passes for just $37 each are a great choice. Enjoy a movie at Reading Cinemas, go bowling at Strike, have fun at Timezone and enjoy treats at Guzman Y Gomez and Max Brenner.

On sale at the Customer Service Desk, perhaps that’s the right choice with your Valentine!

Happy February from The Hunter’s largest shopping destination, Cheers,

Therese,

Marketing Team

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BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS Blood, Sweat and Tears, the iconic American jazz-rock band from the late 60s and 70s return to Australia in March for a national tour and perform one show only at Lizotte’s Newcastle on Sunday 26th March.

It’s been more than four decades since drummer/producer Bobby Colomby and friends assembled the first group to successfully blend rock and jazz into a genre-crossing sound and style. The pioneering American jazz/funk/soul/blues/

Cast members, and audience favourites, starring in this expanded live stage show in April include Brittany Raymond (“Riley”), Trevor Tordjman (“James”), Jordan Clark (“Giselle”), Victoria Baldesarra (“Michelle”), Lamar Johnson (“West”), Isaac Lupien (“Eldon”), Myles Erlick (“Noah”), Briar Nolet (“Richelle”), Isaiah Peck (“Henry”) and Shelby Bain (“Amy”).

Joining The Next Step cast will be local Australian hosts of Disney Channel’s Hanging With Adam and Ash, Adam Roberts and Ash Wells. The duo is stepping away from the sofa and onto the stage to host this exciting new tour around Australia and New Zealand.

For tickets visit www.ticketek.com rock’n’roll group formed in the halcyon days of the late 1960s, soundtracked a generation and are a must-see act.

The current lineup is fronted by Bo Bice, who is best remembered for American Idol, Season four (he was the runner-up to Carrie Underwood). With his natural southern rock charm and a power voice, Bo has joined an impressive lineup of musicians that include Carl Fisher (lead trumpet and musical director), Brad Mason (second trumpet), Dan Levine (trombone), Ric Fierabracci (Bass) and Glen McClelland (Keyboards) – to name just a few.

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

WIN

If you’re looking to spoil your Valentine, head to Mathews Jewellers for two fabulous ranges of exquisite diamonds. Hearts On Fire – the World’s Most Perfectly Cut Diamond is exclusive to Matthews Jewellers and is renowned for its mesmerising sparkle due to a scientific diamond cutting technique. CanadianFire diamonds are natural, untreated and crafted to perfection using the most advanced cutting technology to showcase the diamond’s brilliance and intensity. Visit the store to compare the difference.

Thanks to Esteller Publicity and Lizotte’s Newcastle we have a double (show-only) pass to giveaway to one lucky reader. Visit our Giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine.com to enter. Entries close February 28th – don’t miss out!

of social media, constantly on their iPads and iPhones and not interacting with the real world. With everyone connected to social media and the internet 24/7, will Strassman get them back under control?

Strassman’s “iTedE” introduces amazing new technology that brings the world’s most advanced Puppetronics to the stage. In a world-first feat, Strassman simultaneously operates five characters in a hilarious six-way conversation, using a handheld wireless remote control that sets new standards in ventriloquism. “iTedE” will be sure to delight audiences with sidesplitting comedy, jaw-dropping puppetronics and a visual feast on stage. It’s the ultimate great night out.

As part of his national tour, Strassman will perform “iTedE” in Newcastle (West New Lambton March 25th and 26th), Lake Macquarie (Belmont 16s March 24th) and the Hunter Valley (Cessnock Leagues Club March 22nd and Club Maitland City March 23rd).

SNEAK PEEK

at NWF 2017 lineup The program for the 5th annual Newcastle Writers Festival has been finalised, and while the full program is still under wraps, a few major drawcards have been released (no doubt to tease our literary tastebuds!)

Rosemary Milsom, the event’s organiser, has announced that Nick Earls, Richard Fidler, and Tara Moss are amongst the extensive lineup of 130 writers who will participate in the festival, running from April 7th to 9th. Their superb books traverse history, fiction, and feminism – all fodder for lively conversation.

We are also happy to announce that intouch Magazine will be the session sponsor for the Tara Moss event. Tara is an author, journalist, TV presenter, human rights advocate (she has been a UNICEF Ambassador since 2007) and anti-cyberbullying campaigner. Tara is currently the executive producer, co-writer and host of Cyberhate with Tara Moss, coming to ABC TV in later this year and we can’t wait to hear her speak in April.

The full program will be published via the festival website on Friday, 24 February, and ticket sales will open the same day. Printed programs will be available from Hunter Region libraries, and the festival will also be happy to post you a copy (visit www.newcastlewritersfestival.org.au).

Side-Splitting Comedy and A World-First from

David Strassman!

International comedy star David Strassman’s brand new show “iTedE” is an uproarious take on our technologyladen lives. The sharp-tongued Chuck Wood and loveable Ted E. Bare have been thrust into the world

For tickets to all shows and further information visit www.davidstrassman.com

Thanks to the team at Rockcity Event Marketing we have two double passes to give away to 2 lucky readers to see iTedE live on stage at Belmont 16s on Friday 24 March (9.15pm show). To enter, visit the giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au.

Entries close February 28th – Good Luck!!

WIN

Rosemarie opens NWF 2016 event.

A show spectacular not to be missed!!!

3 Shows Only Civic Theatre, Newcastle Friday 24th February 8pm, Saturday 25th February 2pm Matinee & 8pm GRAND “HOLLYWOOD” STYLE SET

4 WORLD CLASS PROFESSIONAL DANCERS

OVER 2 HOURS OF ACTION PACKED CONTINUOUS ENTERTAINMENT THAT WILL TAKE YOUR BREATHE AWAY.

22 PIECE ORCHESTRA

!

TO BOOK

PHONE CIVIC TICKETEK 4929 1977 OR ANY TICKETEK OUTLET BOOKING FEES MAY APPLY

P R OU D LY S P O N S O R E D B Y NEWCASTLE

GROUP BOOKING 49742077 or book online www.ticketek.com.au www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 7

What’s on?

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4

►COMING UP FEB WEDNESDAY 1ST Jake Davey 5 Sawyers THURSDAY 2ND Thursday Night Live with Trophy Eyes The Cambridge Hotel Tony Jones Lizotte's Holly Wilson Battlesticks Bar - Scratchley's FRIDAY 3RD AK Morris 5 Sawyers Prestige Inc - Music in the Podium The Esplanade, Warners Bay Love That Hat Mezz Bar The Big Bang Quartet Honeysuckle Hotel SATURDAY 4TH Hollow Coves Small Ballroom The Years Mezz Bar Rock Factor Trio Wests New Lambton SUNDAY 5TH Aleyce Simmonds Lizotte's, Lambton Mick Jones Honeysuckle Hotel Nicholas Conners + Audie Franks Battlesticks Bar - Scratchley's WEDNESDAY 8TH Kylie Jane 5 Sawyers FRIDAY 10TH Hockey Dad Small Ballroom Good Company - Music in the Podium The Esplanade, Warners Bay The Rockin' Eddie Band + Matt Gaudry Belmont 16s SATURDAY 11TH Wesley's Edge Battlesticks Bar - Scratchley's The Eagles Show - The Heart of Matter Belmont 16’s TUESDAY 14TH B*witched, Atomic Kitten, S Club 3, East 17 & Liberty X Wests City THURSDAY 16TH Dragon Mezz Bar FRIDAY 17TH The Rumour Trio - Music in the Podium The Esplanade, Warners Bay SATURDAY 18TH Gywn Ashton Solo The Stag & Hunter Hotel John Larder + Little Cents Battlesticks Bar Scratchley's Hornet Blackbutt Hotel SUNDAY 19TH Pap N That + Richard Walker Battlesticks Bar - Scratchley's Opera Bored + Karese Eden Lizotte's Bobby C Honeysuckle Hotel WEDNESDAY 22ND Jerome 5 Sawyers THURSDAY 23RD Bec Sandbridge The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 24TH KR Duo - Music in the Podium The Esplanade, Warners Bay The Cassettes Mezz Bar SATURDAY 25TH Asta Small Ballroom SUNDAY 26TH Katy Steele - ‘Human’ Album Tour 48 Watt Street

8 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Olive Tree Markets, Civic Park Discover the emerging artists section, take home amazing gourmet artisan produce and sit back and take in the sounds of talented local musicians! www.theolivetreemarket.com.au NJC Race Day Broadmeadow Racecourse.

Tales from the Antiques Roadshow One of television’s most beloved and enduring programmes is bringing its stories to the Civic Theatre in a live show specially created to celebrate its 40th anniversary on British television.

4+5 FEB

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12 James Taylor & His All Star Band Also joined by Bernard Fanning and Kasey Chambers. Hope Estate.

Big Beach Challenge At Merewether Beach.

Features a 15km + 6km beach run/walk, plus 3km fun run/walk. www.bigbeachchallenge.net Hunter Turf Wars A battle for the fittest Kids, teens and teams in town! No experience is needed for kids under 12. Run by Lissome in Fitzroy St, Carrington.

More info at www.facebook.com/hunterturfwars.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 Human Nature: The Ultimate Jukebox Tour Playing your favourite tunes spanning over 60 years of music, including their own original hits. Newcastle Entertainment Centre, 8pm.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 17 Nudie Australian Board-riders Battle After eight state qualifying rounds involving more than 60 Australian body-riders clubs, the national final will be held at Nobby’s Beach, Newcastle from 17 - 19 Feb. ORICA Surfboard Club Team Challenge The second event and a big drawcard for Surfest 2017 will be held at Stockton Beach, Feb 4 + 5. 3 Peas Markets will be held at ‘The Pines’ Stockton on the 5th. See all the following events which runs from the 11th - 26 Feb at www.surfest.com/schedule

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7 Vivaldi, Mozart, Paganini at Christ Church Cathedral Presented by one of Germany's finest ensembles Chamber Philharmonia Cologne. Christ Church Cathedral, 8pm. Tickets available at www.ticketmaster.com.au

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 8 Post Presented by Upstage Theatre, the story of Post comes to life through site specific theatre. The Lock Up, Newcastle, 8 - 18 February.

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9 Newcastle Caravan, Camping & Holiday Expo With over 180 exhibitors, there is no better place to check out all aspects of the caravan and camping industry.

Newcastle Entertainment Centre, 9 - 12 February.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10 Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars Don’t miss the action with the best Indigenous and nonIndigenous male and female players at McDonald Jones Stadium. Kick-off 7:30pm. Tickets available at www.nrl.com.

Morisset Lake Macquarie Agricultural Show & Rodeo The show is back for its 63rd year at Morisset Showground from 10 - 12 Feb. Visit www.morissetshow.org.au to view the schedule for the three day event.

Rumour Has It - ADELE starring Naomi Price Wests New Lambton

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11 Newcastle Jets V Melbourne Victory McDonald Jones Stadium, 5:30pm kick-off.

Simple Minds & B-52's Also joined by innovative eclectic band The Models. Bimbadgen Winery.

Tumour Foundation Australia. Pre-run party kicks off at Nobby’s Beach at 12pm. The run begins at 2pm, followed by post-race awards and festivities!

Register at www.cupidsundiesrun.com.au Firebanned IV Benefit Concert A great day out for music lovers and kid’s as we raise funds and show support and appreciation to the Rural Fire Service.

Wickham Park Hotel, 11am.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24 Wollombi Classic Film Festival 2017 Come along and watch a fantastic selection of classic films from the 60's - 90's. Gray's Inn, Wollombi, 6:30pm, 24 - 26 February.

Ultra Swing Lounge Fabulous swing music and rich big band sounds featuring Daniel Stoddart, Robert Mc Dougall, Steve Hudson and televisions Dancing With the Stars world championship ballroom dancers.

Fri 24 8pm, Sat 25th 2pm and 8pm.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25 Australian Bowl-Riding Championships Skateboard competition at Bar Beach Skate park. Welcomes skateboarders from every skill level and age to sign up and compete. 25 + 26 February.

Hamilton Rugby Club 50th Anniversary Race Day Newcastle Jockey Club, Broadmeadow Racecourse.

17 - 26 FEB Lakefest 2017 - Toronto A week-long aquatic festival raising money for the Cancer Council NSW. 17 - 26 February.

Maitland Show Exhibitions, amusement rides, competitions, shows + more! Maitland Showground, 17 - 19 February.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18 Hunt & Gather Markets Pacific Park, 9am - 2pm.

Mental Health Wellness Walk An event for everyone!

Unite together to provide support, encourage change and offer hope. Pacific Park, 10am - 12pm.

Much Ado About Nothing Shakespeare in the Vines is running for its 15th year at Calais Estate Winery, 4:30pm. Tickets and info at www.calaiswines.com.au Suzie Quattro Playing the greatest hits from her incredible 50 year career in the music industry, Suzi presents her Encore Tour at Hope Estate.

Beats ‘n Barrels Join Surfest 2017 for the final weekend of surfing at Merewether Beach! It will be a jam packed 2 days of live music, bands and creative artists, makers and creators at 3 Peas Markets, Jefferson Park! 25 + 26 February.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26 Newcastle Jets V Central Coast Mariners McDonald Jones Stadium, 5pm kick-off.

26 FEB

Australian Surfing Awards Newcastle Exhibition and Convention Centre, for more information visit www.surfingaustralia.com JetBlack 24hr Race for 24hr throughout beautiful rainforest terrain in teams or solo. Awaba MTB Park, 12pm start.

Celebrate an endless summer at Charlestown Swim Centre Lake Mac Swim Centres and the Lake Mac YAC are inviting young people to celebrate the warmer weather while catching up with friends, enjoying live local music, aquatic floats, chill-out zones and games.

12pm - 4pm, Charlestown Swim Centre, entry $3.50.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19 Breast 5km Walk for Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation Family fun event to raise much needed funds for the Hunter Breast Cancer Foundation.

Speers Point Park, 9am.

Cupid’s Undie Run Newcastle Get dressed in your bedroom-best or fancy dress on Valentines weekend for the 1.5km run to raise money for the Children’s

Sparke Helmore Newcastle City Triathlon The annual event is back again for its 24th year, staged from the Queens Wharf area.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Sports Concussion Research Program Ball 2017 Featuring special guests Andrew Johns, Paul Harragon and Libby Hopwood, the event helps to provide funds for HMRI's Sports Concussion Research Program and the Hunter New England Local Health District's Sports Concussion Clinic. Wests New Lambton. Tickets at www.westsnewcastle.com.au

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

What’s on?

Coming Up IN MARCH

WIN //

Live & Cookin’

WEDNESDAY 1ST Jasper Jones Civic Theatre, 1-4 March.

31 Morehead Street, Lambton Doors open from 6pm FULLY LICENSED

FRIDAY 3RD Newcastle Regional Show Live entertainment, animal nurseries, thrill seeking rides, exhibitions, showbags, fireworks and more!

The Newcastle Show has something for the whole family to enjoy.

3 - 5 Mar, Newcastle Entertainment Centre. Pre-sale tickets on sale now www.newcastleshow.com.au

SUNDAY 12TH Loop The Lake Charitable cycle ride to raise funds for John Hunter Children's Hospital, Camp Quality and the Cancer Council at Speers Point Park.

SATURDAY 18TH Hot Dub Time Machine at Hope Estate Escape the big smoke to the Hunter Valley, and come un-wine-d at a get-together in the grapevines with food, wine, beer, and Hot Dub Time Machine performing live! www.hopeestate.com.au

SUNDAY 19TH Melanoma March Newcastle Fun community event to raise awareness and funds for life-saving research. A day for the whole family with entertainment, food, drinks + more! Dixon Park, Merewether. Register at www.melanomamarch.org.au

WEDNESDAY 29TH Spirit of ANZAC Centenary Experience Exhibition including more than 200 artefacts from the Australian War Memorial to tell Australia's story in new and engaging ways. 29 Mar - 4 Apr, Newcastle Entertainment Centre

THURSDAY 30TH Jessica Mauboy All the Hits Live - The Australian Tour Kicking her tour off at the Civic Theatre in Newcastle, Jessica will be performing hit tracks from the original TV series The Secret Daughter, plus all of her greatest hits from the last ten years.

Tickets available at www.ticketek.com.au

MY LEONARD COHEN The world was saddened by the loss of iconic and prolific artist Leonard Cohen in 2016. Thankfully his music lives on!

D'Arrietta's six piece band provides gutsy and arresting interpretations of Cohen's powerful and influential works, framed by a personal narrative. The stories give an insight into Cohen's life and the motivations behind the songs, with a sprinkling of laconic humour providing a glowing tribute to this legendary artist.

Few bodies of musical work rouse, seduce and are of such great solace as that of the great singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen. Soulful lyrics are laced with raw emotion and sheer seductiveness and D'Arrietta's arrangements add an uplifting, upbeat feel.

In D'Arrietta's hands, these are pure rock songs. For two decades, Stewart D'Arrietta and his collaborators have brought their own musical personality to the works of great songwriters, including Tom Waits, John Lennon, and Randy Newman, and have received praise for shows in Australia and overseas. 'My Leonard Cohen' was the toast of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2016, with sold-out shows and rave reviews from critics and fans alike. This is one not to be missed.

WIN

FRIDAY 10TH The Living End - Staring Down the Highway Tour The Australian rock icons are back on tour and are making a stop in Newcastle at The Cambridge Hotel.

LIZOTTE'S NEWCASTLE Thursday 23rd March

Thanks to Lizotte’s Newcastle we have 2 x double showonly tickets to give away to two lucky readers! Visit the Giveaways page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au to enter. Entries close February 28th, 2017.

DEXTER MOOR Friday 3 TAPESTRY - THE SONGS OF CAROLE KING Wednesday 8 + Thursday 9 THE IDEA OF NORTH A CAPPELLA A LA CARTE Friday 10 AN EVENING WITH LIOR & STRING HIS QUARTET Saturday 11 KAYLENS RAIN Sunday 12 LONDON KLEZMER QUARTET Thursday 16 LYN BOWTELL & SOUTHERN STEEL / BETH BROWN SINGLE LAUNCH - EASY Friday 17

ALL THE KINGS MEN - A TRIBUTE Saturday 18

KARISE EDEN Sunday 19 WINTERBOURNE - MY PERFECT SUNDAE TOUR Thursday 23 GIRLS ON THE RADIO Friday 24 DON’T CHANGE - THE INXS STORY Saturday 25

LAZY SUNDAY LUNCH WITH BECCY COLE Sunday 26

MARCH LACHEY DOLEY Friday 3 EVERY BREATH YOU TAKE - A TRIBUTE TO STING & THE POLICE Friday 10 THE LEGENDARY KEVIN BOLCH Saturday 11

BLOOD SWEAT & TEARS Sunday 26

MORE SHOWS added daily.

SUMMER 2017 FEB 4 | MAR 4 | APR 1

WIN!

3 MAR

FEBRUARY

CIVIC PARK 9AM - 3PM

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 | 9

AT THE

Markets

HELLO Miss May!

For the past nine years, the Olive Tree Market has been introducing Novocastrians to fabulous creations designed and made by the best artisans from the Hunter and beyond. Now you can get to know the ‘people behind the products’ on offer at the market with our new At the Markets series.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching this month, we thought we’d give the lovers out there some added inspiration by kicking off the series with a look at one of the quirkiest greeting card makers we’ve come across amongst the Olive Tree stalls – Hello Miss May. The brainchild of Sydney-based designer and illustrator May Leong, Hello Miss May is a whimsical and sometimes wacky

10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

collection of cards, brooches, art prints and tote bags.

Artistically inclined since she was quite young, May was always making cards to give to others for special occasions – so it seems almost inevitable that she would one day share this gift with others through her range of handmade products.

“It all started when I was little,” she said. “My parents have always encouraged me to draw (it’s my favourite thing in the whole wide world!) Mum and dad bought me heaps of drawing pads and colour pencils.

“I started making greeting cards for family and friends for all sorts of occasions from birthdays to farewells. I never bought a card in my life as I always love making them. I got ‘serious’ about two years ago. It brings me a lot of joy to know that my Hello Miss May cards are out there, putting a smile on someone’s face - or possibly causing confusion if they don’t get the puns, ha-ha!”

Hello Miss May’s greeting cards are colourful, quirky and certainly a wonderful departure from the production line cards you buy at the store, whose greetings are often overly cheesy or clichéd. May said the world around her inspires her card creations, with their greetings reflecting her own strong and quirky sense of humour.

“Inspiration comes from everyday living,” she said. “Like my love for tacos (and I made ‘Taco my breath away’) and how my bestie friend named Stevie would always say, ‘Can you not?’, so

I dedicated a card to him. It’s called, ‘Can you knot?’ featuring a pretzel for a knotty kind of pun, ahah.”

The cards are a great alternative for those who like to share their sentiments without schmaltz especially when it comes to Valentine’s Day, with May’s cards providing a fresh perspective on love!

“I adore the ‘I hope you like the Valentine’s gift that you told me to buy for you’ card because it’s kind of true with us, women (mostly), hehe,” she said. “This card is super popular with husbands and boyfriends, they always laugh and tell me ‘This card is my wife or my girlfriend’.

The illustrator has also created a wonderful selection of retro art prints and posters, as well as a range of handmade wooden pins and brooches celebrating her love for the scifi classic – Star Wars. They feature everyone from her own favourite Princess Leia to Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Han Solo, Ewoks and even the Death Star.

“I’m such a nerd,” May said. “I really love Star Wars, and Princess Leia is my role model, always and forever. I love her sass. And I still dream of visiting other planets, like Tatooine and Hoth, they are on top of my list!”

May has been bringing her unique creations to the Olive Tree Markets for the past six months and says she loves the feel of the Hunter event.

“I’ve been a stallholder for about six months now and am looking forward to my first one in 2017!” she said. “Every time I’m up there, it’s just really relaxed and fun. I enjoy the live music at Olive Tree (so many talented musicians in Newcastle), good food and friendly locals.

“I also enjoy making new friends with talented and creative designers and makers. They’re an inspiration!”

Why not check out Hello Miss May’s stall at the next Olive Tree Market, which will be held at Civic Park on February 4 from 9am to 3pm. Visit www.theolivetreemarket.com.au for more information and upcoming market dates.

EDUCATION + TRAINING //

Future Business Expo 2017 has been created specifically for Hunter businesses to assist in safeguarding our thriving local economy. The Expo will give business owners the chance to hear from exhibitors and experts from varied fields including: • Adam Franklin, Bluewire Media • Simone Macks, Xero • Trudy MacDonald, TalentCode HR • Ben Fewtrell, ActionCOACH • Ryan Macpherson, Futura Group

THE ROOFTOP JANUARY LIVE MUSIC Every Saturday night 6-9pm Sat 4/2 Sat 11/2

Hayden Johns Beth Gleeson

Sat 19/2 Sat 25/11

Matt Semmens Ava

Tues 14/2 – Valentine’s Day live music 6pm – 9pm

Special Guest and host of the expo Andrew Hughes, is passionate about developing talent, increasing employee engagement and creating leaders. With degrees in Economics and Law, a Master’s degree in International Law and decades of experiences as a senior executive and partner at a national Law Firm, In a day and age where everything is automated Andrew will bring a wealth of knowledge to the and online, the future of business is changing. expo. His experience and passion will provide Successful companies are evolving rapidly, and real insight to business owners for their future consumers won’t wait for you to catch up. The success in this fast-paced world. The Expo is future success of your business is entirely up sure to set Hunter business owners on the right to you. track for a prosperous 2017.

To stay up to date, Hunter business owners are being urged to move with the times and WHEN Wednesday 29th March 2017 from ensure their businesses are prepared by 9am to 5pm.

WHERE Newcastle Exhibition and Convention attending the Future Business Expo 2017.

Centre This expo has been put together by two COST $125pp local businesses that understand the need to TICKETS www.futurebusinessexpo.com.au move with the times to conduct your business smarter and more efficiently. Learn about Don’t miss out. Purchase your ticket now the future of Accounting, HR, Marketing, to ensure that you and your staff are fully Management and more at the Future Business prepared for the future.

Expo 2017.

Hunter Business Owners Urged to Embrace the

FUTURE

Customers won’t wait for you to figure out the future.

The future of your business is up to you!

• • •

NEX (Newcastle Exhibition Centre) Wednesday 29th March 2017 9.00am - 5.00pm

Visit the website for more information & buy your tickets!

futurebusinessexpo.com.au

Simone Macks Xero

Trudy MacDonald TalentCode HR

Adam Franklin Bluewire Media

GUEST SPEAKERS

Ryan Macpherson

ActionCOACH

Newcastle tiity tiall | Tuesday 18th ticttiber 2016 | 9am - 5:15pm GUEST SPEtiKERS Wertier titimbritick Xerti

Dave McKitiley tirutichbtiards

BRtiUGtiT Tti YtiU BY

Brought to you by

Ben Fewtrell

Futura

Special Guest Host Andrew Hughes International Speaker

tidam Fratikliti Bluewire Media

Ryati Macpherstiti Futura

SPEtiItiL GUEST titiST Sam Kekovich

Beti Fewtrell tictitititititititi

PRtiUDLY SUPPtiRTING

Media Personality

PROUDLY SUPPORTING

Vitiiti tihti wtititiititi ftiti mtititi itiftitimatitititititititititititititititititititititi

SPONSORED BY

www.futurebusitiess-expti.ctim.au

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 11

All Images by Brent Leggett and Chris from Skeye High Photography.

LAWRIE McKINNA

Passion for Club and Community

WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Lawrie McKinna always knew he wanted to make his living in football. He remembers being a five-year-old in Scotland, laying out his goals for the sport he loved.

still earning his living from football as the CEO of the Newcastle Jets.

He may have never pulled on the kit of his beloved Rangers FC, but McKinna still lived his dream of being a professional football player for 15 years in both Scotland and Australia “When I was five everybody played football. I started primary before moving on to become a successful coach, and later, school, and I can remember standing out the back of my Gran’s football club CEO. house… and I said to my mum I was going to be a professional To this day, McKinna remains thankful he has been able footballer, and I was going to play with the Glasgow Rangers, to spend his life doing something he loves and remains as and I was going to earn 100 pounds a week, and I was going passionate as he was as a five-year-old about the world’s most to give my mum 95 pound a week board money, and I was popular team sport. going to buy her a Hillman Avenger! That was my dream to be a “Signing my professional contract (with Kilmarnock in the football player.”

Scottish Football League) was like a dream come true,” he said.

While the aspirations of a five-year-old seldom play out as “I went and had a trial with them, played two games, scored planned, 50 years after making his bold prediction McKinna is six goals and got signed as a 19-year-old young father. I lived my dream.

12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

“My first game was against Rangers reserves, which I played at Ibrox Stadium, there were just two or three thousand people in this massive big stadium, but I never cared. I played on a field that I’d never been on before because I’d just been in the terraces watching. That’s the stuff you read about in your books.

“I never got to play with the Rangers but I was getting paid to do something I loved, and I’ve always looked at it like that, I’ve been so fortunate to earn some money to do something I’d be doing anyway.”

Of course passion and a part-time professional contract alone were not enough to pay the bills and after four years of juggling his football commitments with a job as a van driver for a local factory, McKinna and his growing family (including wife Christine and sons Scott and Stuart) made the momentous decision to move halfway around the world to Australia.

“There was (sic) just no jobs in Scotland, and I was just fed up,” McKinna said.

“I looked to going to Hong Kong or South Africa to play, and then there was the opportunity to come to a State League club in Victoria, Box Hill, and they flew myself, my wife and two boys out there.

“We came to Australia, it was the biggest decision in my life, and then we arrived in Melbourne, it was pissing down rain and sleet, and we went ‘What have we done here?’ You just think it’s beautiful here, you don’t realise you actually get rain here, you think kangaroos are walking up the street when you’re in Scotland," Lawrie jokes. ►

“I was there for about three months and did quite well, and I got sold to a National Soccer League team, Heidelberg, the big Greek club in Melbourne and I played with them for a year and did well.

“Then I got sold to APIA Leichhardt in Sydney and came to Sydney and then got sold to Blacktown City in the National League as well. That’s when we really settled down, we bought a house out in Windsor, and that’s when we knew we weren’t going to go back (to Scotland).”

McKinna’s NSL career also included a short stint in Newcastle, where he played seven matches for the Breakers in the 1993-1994 season.

But it wasn’t until he hung up his boots as a player and joined Parramatta Power as the assistant coach to former Socceroo David Mitchell in 1999 that McKinna finally scored his first full-time gig in football.

Three years later he became head coach of North Sydney based club Northern Spirit – a move that also saw him pick up his first ever football award after being named Coach of the Year.

When the A-League was introduced as the successor to the now defunct NSL in 2005, McKinna took the reins of the Central Coast Mariners, one of the eight foundation clubs participating in the new national competition. McKinna led the team to victory in the Pre-season Challenge Cup before taking them all the way to the grand final, where they went down 1-0 to Sydney FC. He was named the A-League’s inaugural Coach of the Year for his efforts.

McKinna remained in charge of the Mariners for five seasons before becoming their Football and Commercial Operations Manager and was instrumental in growing the club’s popularity and presence on the Central Coast, becoming renowned for his focus on community engagement.

Despite never securing the winner’s trophy during his time as coach (they finished the 2007-2008 season on top before going down in the decider 1-0 to Newcastle), McKinna said he was proud of what he was able to achieve at the club.

“The Mariners, we achieved a lot for a little team,” he reflects. “To actually see the unification in a town and a city because of a football team was special, all those thousands of people that were at those games and even when we lost the first grand final, you’ve got 600 people waiting for you when you come back … it was something special.”

In 2011 McKinna moved to China to take up the head coaching position at Chinese Super League club Chengdu Blades. He remains the only Australian to have coached in that competition.

A stint with China League One side Chongqing Lifan followed before McKinna returned to Australia in 2012 to venture into an entirely different field altogether – politics.

Approached by millionaire advertising mogul John Singleton to run for local government, McKinna secured the biggest independent vote in Gosford City Council’s history to be elected as a councillor in 2012, before winning the internal vote a week later to assume the role of mayor.

With the top job voted on by councillors every year, McKinna set yet another record during his time on

Gosford Council by becoming the first person to retain the position for their full four-year term.

“As a personal achievement, becoming the mayor was huge,” McKinna said.

“I’m reasonably confident I can speak to 500 people, I can get on the stage with professors and academics to talk about council stuff, and I can do better than them because I talk real, they talk in the big fancy words and I just say how it is.

“But when I became mayor I thought ‘I left school just before I was 16, got pregnant, got married… (and now I’m) the mayor of a city, that’s quite a big gig. So that was really quite special.” (Continued next page) ►

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businessman interested in buying an A-League club.

“A month later Martin Lee came out for the first time so I facilitated meetings with him and the FFA and … he came back out in the March/April. That’s when he was serious about getting the club, and that’s when he asked me to be the CEO,” McKinna said.

“It was a chain of events of things that if I’d never went to China, it would have never happened… so you just never know, that’s why you always have to keep your options open.”

What Lawrie does know now though is what he wants to achieve with the Jets.

“Now I just want to focus on my next big thing, which is the Newcastle Jets,” he said.

"I’m not saying we’re going to win the league, but challenging again and putting respect back in the town for their football team - if I can achieve that in the next two or three years I’d be happy as a pig in shit.

But while it was a whole new world for McKinna, very little about his approach to the job at hand changed. With his honest, hardworking nature, commitment to engaging with the community and habit of telling it like it was finding him as many fans in the mayor’s office as it had on the football field.

“I was called 'unique' by a lot of people who would come in and have a meeting in my mayor’s office, which was a posh office, and they would come out and go ‘Well that was unique, that was different’ because it was just real,” he said.

“You could just talk, there was no bullshit, there was no airs and graces. I’d make them a cup of tea, I had my kettle and tea there, nobody was waiting on us, it was just low maintenance and just real.

“I just did it because that’s how I am. People used to say ‘You’re doing a great job’ but I don’t know what I’m doing, I’m just being myself and doing what I think’s right by people and treating people with respect.”

Staying true to himself in the bureaucratic world of politics often meant McKinna said things and dealt with issues in a rather politically incorrect way. But it also lent a genuine quality to whatever he did – such as conducting council citizenship ceremonies.

Citing his own ceremony to become Australian when he was still coaching the Mariners as one of the “biggest days” of his life, McKinna took to his role of officiating over them with relish once he became mayor.

“You talk about being proud of something,” he said. “Me and Christine, I think it was 2008, last game of the season against Adelaide United at the stadium, we became Aussies the week before Australia Day in front of 10,000 in the middle of the stadium.

“

“It was a real special day… one of the biggest days in my life. And my best gig as mayor was doing the citizenship ceremonies, I loved that. I cried at some of them, people cried because of how you made it because it’s very formal but I put my spin on it, and it was lovely.

“We’d get so many letters of thanks about the way we put it on, it was nice. I just loved seeing people like me becoming an Aussie and what it meant to them.

“We did a few friends, and when one of our friends was getting done I got done up in the kilt and the (mayoral) chains, nobody knew this, but when I walked out, everyone went ‘wow.'

“Then we got one of my other mates who does the pipes, he marched in doing Waltzing Matilda on the pipes and it was such a nice thing.

“Then during the ceremony, I had my phone in my sporran, you know my wee bag (worn at the front of a kilt). Because that hangs out in front of your personal bits and it was vibrating, I burst out laughing.

“Everybody’s just looking, and I said ‘If you’re wondering why I’m laughing, my phone’s ringing in my sporran’ and I pulled my phone out and I said ‘If it’s anybody here can you phone me again because that was nice!’ … that kind of lightheartedness, people respected that.”

McKinna certainly earned plenty of respect in football circles over the years as well and this, combined with his friendly nature and his passion for the game, unknowingly played a part in the Newcastle Jets being purchased by the Ledman Group last year.

While coaching in China, McKinna befriended an English speaking player’s agent, Rocky Liu, who was set on moving to Australia. They kept in contact when McKinna returned to Gosford and around a year ago, the then mayor was approached by Liu, who said he knew of a Chinese

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BUY LOCAL PPO

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(Continued)

It means that much to me now.

I’m lock, stock and barrel… this is where my passion is, I want Newcastle Jets to be successful.

”

“One thing is for Martin Lee, for investing money and believing in my story. What sold him to buy the club is my passion for Newcastle. People don’t know that, they just think it was because he’s a rich man and he was going to buy the club.

“It was a hard sell to him, but he told me after that the reason he bought this club was because of my passion that the Newcastle Jets could be successful again.

“When somebody comes out and tells you that afterwards you think ‘That’s pretty strong’ - when a guy is investing his millions … because he believes in my passion for the club.

“And it would just be good to see that vibrancy about the city again, that people are proud to walk about with the Jets shirt on or the cap on and that’s what you want.

“A lot of people, if you ask them, they’ll say they’re a Jets fan, but they don’t go to the games. We need to try and get them get to be proud to come to the games again.”

For more stories on McKinna’s life, why not check out his biography written by Central Coast author Adrian Deans – Political Football: Lawrie McKinna’s Dangerous Truth – which was released last August.

Described Fox Sports’ Andy Harper as “very readable, but not for the PC at heart!” It’s a hilarious read and available in all good bookstores or online. ISBN 9780646958385 (Published: August 1st, 2016 by High Horse Books).

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

Newcastle, e v o L Love Ou r Show Enjoy the free ring events including the Rooftop Express, ISUZU D-MAX Precision Driving Team and fireworks

Have fun on the rides and sideshow alley then choose your favourite show bag

NEWCASTLE REGIONAL

SHOW

AY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY D I R F

5 MARCH 2017 + 4 + 3

Newcastle Showground, Broadmeadow

Come up close and personal with horses, cattle, goats, pigeons, rats, mice, poultry, birds, reptiles and baby animals Explore the lifestyle exhibition featuring the Aveo Seniors Expo

Pre-sale Tickets Online for Amazing Savings

newcastleshow.com.au

#newcastleshow #lovenewcastleloveourshow

16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

WHAT TO EXPECT IN 2017

NEWCASTLE REGIONAL SHOW 2017

Newcastle’s all-time favourite family event - the Newcastle Regional Show is just around the corner, and you can save big by jumping online and pre-booking your tickets! This year’s program will be a combination of exciting new additions and popular traditional favourites that will be taking over the showgrounds at Broadmeadow from Friday, March 3 to Sunday, March 5.

Ringside, the star attraction is Rooftop Express. It is a first-class spectacular that features electrifying stunts, hilarious Australian comedy and incredible horsemanship by David Manchon and friends. The family show is based on an engaging storyline with lovable characters, horses, quad bikes, broncos, musters, bullock chases, Braham steers and the famous “Rooftop Big Rig.” The popular ISUZU D-MAX Precision Driving Team is back.

These daredevils will thrill you with spectacular driving that includes high-speed drifts, hand-brake turns, hair-raising head to head crossovers, ramp to ramp jumps and driving on two wheels.

Then each night look to the skies as the showgrounds, and its surrounds are lit up by fabulous colours and patterns as the firework spectacular explodes into the atmosphere.

Back on the ground, head off to the Show Bags Pavillion in a new location, on Ring Road. This year, there is an incredible variety of licensed and confectionery bags, many are the same as the show bags heading to this year’s Sydney Royal Easter Show.

When it comes to rides and sideshow alley, there will be plenty of games and rides for thrill seekers including the

adrenalin pumping, stomach-churning Avenger, XXXL, Freakout and Speed 2 rides.

If you need a break from all the heart-stopping action, head over to the entertainment centre where you can relax and watch cooking demonstrations, fashion parades, information sessions and visit the lifestyle exhibition featuring the Aveo Seniors Expo and the Raymond Terrace Bowling Club Have a Go area, where you can try your hand at bowls, golf, tai chi and many more activities.

For the animal lovers, there will be a vast array of agricultural competitions – stud beef cattle, goats, pigeons, horses and show jumping – the oh-so-cute animal nursery as well as poultry and reptile displays. Other traditional favourites include photography, handicrafts, cookery, floral art, home brewing, rats and mice, model train display and woodturning.

This year, there are pre-sale gate and ride tickets. The pre-sale gate tickets are $12 an adult, $10 concession, $9 a child, $30 a family (2 adults + 2 children or 1 adult + 3 children) or $40 a family (2 adults + 3 children). (A child is 16 and under; concession is for student, Centrelink, and pensioner card Holders; children 5 and under are free.) The pre-sale ride tickets are 30 x $1 ride tickets for $25. To buy pre-sale tickets or find more information, visit www.newcastleshow.com.au.

HISTORY

This year will see the 190th annual Newcastle Show. The first event, a Sports Day, was held early in 1901. With “spectacular events such as an eight-man ladder and hose race, municipal tug-of-war, wrestling on horseback, tent pegging and Highland dancing and piping,” it proved an excellent first venture for the fledgling committee.

The first official Newcastle Regional Show was held on May 17, 1902. It was opened by the association’s patron Joseph Wood and hailed by the newspapers as a “splendid success.”

Judging was held in 19 sections including poultry, horses, garden produce, flowers, cookery, needlework, wagons and buggies, painting, drawing and writing, dairy produce and apiculture.

The annual Newcastle Regional Show continued mostly without interruption until 1916 when the showgrounds were needed as a Military Camp for World War I.

There was another gap in 1919 due to the influenza epidemic, which was raging around the world. The show continued to be held through the Great Depression years, but as Newcastle Showground was again used as an Army Staging Camping during the World War II, no shows took place during the years of 1941 to 1945.

In the late 1980s, innovations such as street theatre, themed buildings, and site scraping elements were introduced.

School excursions were initiated and stages provided to showcase the talents of local youth.

Since 1899, the backbone of the Newcastle Regional Show has been its volunteer committee members and workers.

Without the assistance of this dedicated group of men and women, giving so freely of their time to help organise the show, it would not be possible to run such a huge community event.

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS • Newcastle Regional Show needs you as a volunteer during this year’s show weekend – March 3, 4 & 5.

• There are plenty of opportunities to assist in all areas of the show such as Pavilion supervision, animal stewarding, information booths, traffic control and stage assistance.

• Shifts will be four hours.

• All volunteers will receive one free entry (per day worked) for family or friends to use.

• If you are interested in being a volunteer email admin@newcastleshow.com.au or phone 4961 2085.

Thanks to the organising committee, we have a Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Children) to the Newcastle Show and four show bags to giveaway to one lucky reader. Be quick – entries close Thursday, February 23rd. Simply visit the GIVEAWAYS page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au and answer the question to win!

WIN

Pre-book to SAVE BIG at the

• Rooftop Express: Friday and Saturday at 7 pm and 8.30pm; Sunday at 2.45pm.

• ISUZU D-MAX Precision Driving Team: Friday 3.30pm, 6.30pm, 8.30pm; Saturday 4pm, 6.45pm, 8pm; Sunday 1.45pm and 3.10pm.

• Fireworks: Friday and Saturday, 9pm.

• The latest in show bags featuring branded bags • Rides, Rides, Rides - 100 pieces of equipment of high adrenaline, family and children's rides and games.

• Lifestyle exhibition featuring the Aveo Seniors Expo and Raymond Terrace Bowling Club Have A Go area in the entertainment centre.

• Two live entertainment stages: the main stage in the entertainment centre and the community stage, opposite the Entertainment Centre, with 100s of kids performing over the weekend.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

CPC Psychic & Lifestyle Expo NEWCASTLE JOCKEY CLUB –

–

Entry $15, Kids under 12 free Be amazed by Australia’s best psychic mediums live on stage. Over 120 fantastic stalls of readers, artists, practitioners, spiritual & wellbeing products and cpcexpos.com.au

FEATURING

Mitchell Coombes

Christian Adams

Nell Archer

Florence King

Amanda Roussety

Celebrity Psychic Medium

Internationally renowned Psychic Medium

The Psychic Soul Gazer

“The Happy Medium”

As seen on TV

2014 Australian Psychic of the Year, People’s Choice

Finalist of hit TV series “The One”

As seen on The Morning Show, in Woman’s Day magazine and on Newcastle’s 102.9 KOFM

As seen on TV Trance Healer

Spirit Artist/ Channel Inspirational Speaker

Christine Rose

Susanna Steel

Ian Cameron

Celebrity TV Psychic Medium

Renowned Psychic

Master Palmist

18 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

As seen on TV

Glenn & Dagmar Bryant Celebrity TV Psychic Mediums

2013 Psychic of the Year NSW Paranormal consultant

FREE SKILLS TRAINING FOR OUR NEW NOVOCASTRIANS

Bike Skills Class for Syrian Refugees

Refugees and other members of Newcastle's multicultural community will receive free skills training to help them establish their own businesses as part of a project run by Newcastle City Council with local partners.

The Multicultural Small Business Program will see around 12 refugees and immigrants attend workshops over a 10-week program commencing this month to help them set up and run small businesses in Newcastle and the Hunter, where it can be hard for newcomers to find work.

The workshops will help build capacity to establish and run small businesses, provide ongoing support through mentoring and build the profile of their enterprises.

Together with project partners The Business Centre, Navitas, Northern Settlement Services and volunteer mentors, Council will run two parallel courses for refugees and migrants with strong English skills and another in Arabic.

"Migrants to Newcastle, including our most recent arrivals, have brought much-needed skills, labour and ideas to our city," Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.

"The Multicultural Business Program has been designed to help highly capable people harness these skills to support their families in a foreign country where business practices, cultural customs, rules, and regulations are all new to them.

"Refugees and other members of the multicultural community have given us much of the energy, ingenuity, and enterprise that makes Newcastle what it is today and this program aligns with the Multicultural Plan adopted by Council last year to promote and celebrate multicultural diversity while contributing to positive economic outcomes.

"The program still needs more mentors to provide the participants with ongoing support, so I am appealing to business people in Newcastle and those with foreign language skills, particularly Arabic, to help us with this great initiative."

The program follows another by Council last year to teach Syrian refugees how to bicycle safely in Australia.

Newcastle City Council teamed up with CatholicCare and other support agencies to teach recently arrived refugees how to ride on local streets. Refugee dads completed a Cycle Skills Workshop for beginners at New Lambton after CatholicCare committed to getting the men and their families mobile on two wheels. As part of the program, around 35 refugees received bicycles and council's help through training to ensure they understand Australian road rules.

The Lord Mayor will officially launch the Multicultural Small Business Program on 16 February. Business people interested in volunteering as mentors for the Multicultural Business Program should contact Jill Gaynor at Newcastle City Council at jgaynor@ncc.nsw.gov.au or by phoning 4974 2222.

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STARTING OUT OR STARTING OVER? WORDS DEBORAH BARTLETT + CHRIS WILLIAMS insideout Newcastle Many of us at some stage of our lives will move into a new home or decide to downsize. How to decorate can be very daunting and overwhelming. Whether you are just starting out or even starting over these simple steps can help in your quest to get a style that suits your home and you.

• Deciding what you “like.” Sounds simple, but with so many choices and beautiful images on social media and in magazines, finding one image to reflect everything you want to do is near impossible. Learn how to "Pinterest" and save all the pictures of things you love. When you have your collection, look at them all and see simple threads that tie them together. Colours, style patterns or a certain look that stands out. Take inspiration from a favourite artwork or rug as a starting point. If colour isn’t your thing, mixing your neutrals using texture is a must to create an interesting and welcoming décor.

• Be realistic about the house or the room you want to decorate. Choose furniture to suit the home, making sure

your purchase reflects your style and meets your needs. I suggest making the sofa, dining table, chairs and your bed your priority purchases.

Buy the best your budget will allow.

• Remember, the scale of the furniture in each area is also imperative. Drawing up a plan to scale will help when choosing a sofa, dining table and any other larger items. Measure everything making sure it is right for the space and can fit through the door. A professional will stop you from making expensive mistakes, so it is well worth engaging them to help you put it all together.

When you have chosen your sofa Image Credit: Alpine from Molmic Furniture, Made in Melbourne www.molmic.com.au and dining table, you can look at an entertainment unit, coffee table and • You don’t need to decorate every surface in your home, you side tables and any other furniture items. Don’t be tempted also need to have negative spaces to enhance collections of to match everything. Choose complimentary pieces that help interesting pieces you have strategically placed together. to bring your style together. Anchor these pieces with rugs while tying it all together with artwork, cushions and throws.

Using neutral tones for your big buy items such as the sofa, Don’t overdo accessories – and remember - less is always dining table and chairs, curtains and blinds will allow you to best. add colour using paint, art, wallpaper and accessories and to change it over and over again as your tastes change or if you • Think about the size of rugs and artwork. Rugs need to be simply want to freshen up the room. placed under a sofa and art items need to be thoroughly Buying quality classic styles for your sofa, dining table and thought over before running out to make purchases.

Placement of art needs to be a focal point that is anchored by chairs will also ensure that you have them for many years to come. www.insideoutstyle.com.au either cushions or accessories across the room.

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Audience members learn to read their own palms.

Find Yourself…

At this Year’s CPC Psychic & Lifestyle Expo WORDS NELL ARCHER - Psychic, Inspirational Speaker and Expo Organiser

The psychic, medium and alternative wellbeing industry in Australia is booming! It’s everywhere in the media, with sell out shows and big spiritual expos in almost every city. No doubt about it, people are seeking these goods and services more than ever before. It is not just the weird and whacky or the rainbow striped hippies, but mainstream, ordinary, everyday folk who are engaging in what a few centuries ago would have got one burnt at the stake!

So what is making it so attractive? There is muchresearched evidence now on mind-over-matter, the power of our thoughts and self-talk, the need for mindfulness and the enormous benefits derived from previously alternative practices such as meditation or yoga. With a movement away from traditional religions, there’s both a need for spirituality and a surge in our individual entitlement to believe and do what “feels right” for us. The “gifted” have come out of the dark-ages and into the limelight with celebrities like Mitchell Coombes appearing regularly on TV. CPC Expos has had incredible success in providing events that showcase a vast range of alternative goods and services that people are seeking in droves. Having three days of the best in the industry (like Mitchell) demonstrating their abilities live on stage gives an inexpensive way to see this in action, as the small entry fee allows you to be there all day with unlimited access to both stages. There are also over a hundred stalls to discover where you can purchase longer readings, goods and services to go deeper.

There are as many different practitioners as there are types to seek them. From the classic British, formally trained posh platform medium, the 7th generation gipsy seer, the quantumphysics clairvoyant, sound healers, white witches, tribal shamans, a candid cursing palmist, geology degree crystal 22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Nell Archer

experts, Native American Indians, a Maori princess, essential oil therapists, deity workers, yogis, luminaries, Reiki masters, academic doctorates with a difference, alien channels, light bed workers, belly dancers, to the high profile celebrity TV psychic mediums! Virtually an endless array! There may be some who appear so incredible as to seem impossible, but that's a lot of what makes it so much fun!.

Big shifts happen to people who attend, and it is incredible to witness. The energized stage has the psychics and mediums working at their brilliant best. Sometimes people have been grieving for decades for someone passed over or have felt great loss and confusion about what happens to us after we die.

To have a medium bring through details about your passedover loved one that could not possibly have been known, and messages from them about your current life that clearly show your loved one is still watching over you can be nothing short of life-changing.

I remember an instance when Christian Adams (internationally renowned Psychic Medium and co-organiser of the Expo) was on stage. He brought through a lady’s late husband and their teenage son who had both died in a car crash. It was such an emotional impact as he told the story of their lives, their personalities, and how they passed. The crowd of hundreds was fully engaged, and all our hearts were with the lady in the audience receiving the message, some passing her tissues and holding her shoulder. Christian always brings through such details about the spirit people, confirming the information as it comes through. It is unavoidable not to be affected. All the readings are moving to watch, but it was when he told her the colour and brand of her son’s sneaker she had picked up from the road side of the crash site, that the entire crowd burst into tears.

We can’t witness stuff like that without being changed in some way. No matter how skeptical we are, it just gets too real! Deep down even the skeptics want to feel hope. I believe skepticism can be a way of not daring to hope, and ironically it is the skeptics at these events who are often the most moved.

We will see big blokes crying like babies after getting a lost loved one come through with personal evidence they cannot deny was spot-on.

All the psychics and mediums work in their own way. Some bring through passed over animals, some actually feel the symptoms the spirit person had before passing.

Amanda Roussety, one of the finalists from the hit series The One is a medical intuitive. A particular connection had her on stage flinging off her outer garments and dripping with sweat because the spirit lady had been in the throws of menopause just before passing.

One of the most loved, entertaining and down-to-earth celebrity psychic mediums is Florence King. Florence will get hiccups and dyspepsia on stage if she connects to a spirit person who was a drinker (and worse if they had a tummy complaint!). Florence tells of going home to her husband who complained he’d had a hard day at work to which she replied “You’ve had a rough day? I’ve had three heart attacks, a car crash, brain hemorrhage, bowel cancer and been murdered I’m exhausted!!”

Master Palmist Ian Cameron invites volunteers from the audience to the stage and reveals uncanny insights into their lives, personalities and future, demonstrating to the crowd how to read their own palms. People dive into the ancient wisdom of these lines with serious interest as if reading a book about their life.

I will talk about my experiences of multiple near death experiences, answering profound questions and doing audience psychic reads. I also work with spirit people by drawing the portraits of those passed over. I do this live on stage and bring through information about them to go with it, often getting names. It’s great when the person in the audience claims it and shows me a photo of their lost loved one afterward. It is so validating to see the likeness, and they get to take the drawing home too.

These expos buzz with energy. The exhibitors display their gifts with passion, artistry, quality, full of vibrant colours, and cultural diversity. There’s a fabulous vibe making them so much fun to experience, whatever one’s beliefs. The smorgasbord of wonder wakes us up, wide-eyed, to amazing possibilities, and it seems, experiencing evidence of life after death plus discovering the incredible potential in others and ourselves can really make us feel ALIVE! For more information and tickets visit www.cpcexpos.com.au

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The Merchant Of Venice

by Bell Shakespeare.

The Witches by Roald Dahl.

Terror, Tears & Tomfoolery

AT THE CIVIC THEATRE WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Monsters, witches, death and dark times – add a dash of Bram Stoker’s Dracula to the mix and the Civic Theatre’s 2017 season looks set to be another bloody classic… literally.

All puns aside, Novocastrians can expect 12 months of terror, triumph, tears and tomfoolery with a genuinely diverse line-up of performances set to take to the stage of the heritagelisted theatre.

There will be drama and dance, classical music and comedy; a feast for the senses featuring the serious to the seriously ridiculous, the thought-provoking to the mind-bending – and everything in between.

Civic Theatre Manager Vanessa Hutchins says diversity was key in planning the 2017 season, with something for all members of the family.

“Our focus is always to provide a diverse suite of shows that depicts the breadth of talent and connects our audience to the national performing arts scene,” she said.

“We aim at bringing shows that encourage an audience to choose something different, create a new experience and engage with the imagination.

“It’s an opportunity for audiences and patrons to connect with new works, discover new genres and most importantly have the opportunity to see a plethora of great works.”

Great works of literature are certainly on the agenda this season, with adaptations of everything from literary classics to modern masterpieces sprinkled throughout the schedule, starting with the first show of the season, Jasper Jones.

Based on the award-winning novel by Craig Silvey, which has been adapted for the stage by Kate Mulvany, Jasper Jones is a coming-of-age story for a generation, filled with innocence, yearning and racial tension.

24 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Set in Western Australia in 1965, it tells the story of 13-yearold Charlie Bucktin, who becomes embroiled in a mystery of death and despair when town outcast Jasper Jones seeks his help after stumbling upon the body of a local girl in the bush.

Jasper Jones will hit the stage for a run of five shows from March 1-4, but Novocastrians can get themselves in the mood for the performance by joining in a citywide conversation about the novel on February 14 as part of Newcastle Region Libraries’ inaugural Summer Read - Big Book Club.

While at the library, book-lovers may also want to borrow the literary classic Dracula in preparation for another visit to the Civic Theatre later in March.

The much-loved Shake and Stir Theatre Co. will return to Newcastle on March 17 for two performances of their criticallyacclaimed adaptation of Bram Stoker’s 1897 gothic horror novel.

The Brisbane-based company is known for its high-quality re-imagining of renowned works of literature, having previously performed adaptations of George Orwell’s Animal Farm and 1984 at the Civic Theatre in recent years and in front of sell-out crowds.

Another highlight of this year’s Civic Theatre schedule will reach even further back into literary history when the esteemed Bell Shakespeare returns to the region where its visionary founder John Bell was born, to present their version of The Merchant of Venice.

An uncompromising and dark production, The Merchant of Venice, explores the tense relationship and prejudices between those that have, and those that don’t, taking the audience on a journey of love, mercy and justice.

Featuring three-time Helpmann Award winner, Mitchell Butel (Janet King and Rake) as the defiant Shylock, and Jessica Tovey (Wolf Creek and Wonderland) as Portia, this masterfully envisioned production tackles the prejudices and preconceived notions of one of William Shakespeare’s most challenging plays.

Another play being brought to life in Newcastle this year is the emotionally-charged and thought-provoking Seven Stages of Grieving.

As culturally significant as when it was originally written by Wesley Enoch and Deborah Mailman 20 years ago, this new adaption presents a wise and powerful insight into the grief of Aboriginal people and the hope of reconciliation.

A Queensland Theatre and Grin and Tonic Theatre Troupe production, this enduring masterwork of Indigenous theatre present a series of funny, devastatingly sad, politically relevant and culturally profound stories that traverse the phases of Aboriginal history.

Vanessa said the performance of such wonderful novels and plays would be a real highlight of the 2017 season, however, the show she was most looking forward to represented another area of artistic endeavour altogether – dance.

“Personally I like that we have been able to align ourselves with some fantastic literature across the year,” she said.

“From national bestsellers like Jasper Jones to historical time markers such as Seven Stages of Grieving, which has been taught across Hunter schools for the past 15 years, it’s the ability to bring great texts to life.

“I will say, however, that I’m very excited about having Gudirr, which we worked overtime to get here. This piece comes straight off the back of International and National Arts Festivals and wasn’t planned to tour regionally until I got in their face about it.

“”

Like a dog with a bone - I could see the magic inherent in this important work and wasn’t going to stop pushing till we got the show here.

Gudirr is an intimate solo dance and video work performed

by Dalisa Pigram, daughter of Broome.

By turns hesitant, restless, resilient and angry, the dance work considers the legacy of Australia’s history for Aboriginal people in north-west Australia today and asks: what does it take to decolonise Aboriginal people’s minds, to unlock doors and to face cultural change?

A show about evolving Aboriginal resilience and described as “unmissable” by The Guardian, it will grace the stage at Civic Theatre on September 22 and 23.

Dance of a very different kind will also be on show in Blue Love, a poetic and satirical take on the clichés of pop culture, romance, coupledom and suburbia created by awardwinning choreographer Shaun Parker.

Infused with intense physical theatre, film and dance, Blue Love will take audiences on an expedition in search of the perfect relationship, inspired by famous works of art, theatre, music and film.

But this multi-media comedy (October 20-21) won’t be the only performance wowing audiences with its physicality, with Landscape with Monsters (July 28-29) presenting a bold new contemporary acrobatic work from Australia’s most acclaimed circus company, Circa, that is both thought-provoking and heart-stopping.

The diversity of the Civic Theatre’s season of shows will continue in its offering of musical works, ranging from the Sydney Symphony Orchestra’s one-nightonly performance of Haydn and Mozart at Newcastle City Hall on May 26 to Piano Lessons, a stage adaptation of the memoir of international concert pianist Anna Goldsworthy (October 6-7).

Playing herself, Anna stars in an engaging piece of music theatre that elegantly illustrates the intriguing relationship between the young pianist and her Russian teacher.

Audiences will have another chance to hear Anna’s exquisite talents at work on October 7, when she performs a one-hour piano recital, including pieces by Chopin,

Schubert and Prokofiev, at the Newcastle Art Gallery from 7.30pm.

At the other end of the musical spectrum will be Newcastle’s much-loved diva Marcia Hines, who will deliver a disco inferno of sights and sounds underneath the canopy of the magnificent Aurora Spiegeltent during May and June as part of the international ensemble performing VELVET. A glitter ball world of fantastic sensory overload, VELVET will offer up a seductive fusion of disco, dance and circus loosely inspired by world famous Studio 54.

But the 2017 season isn’t just for the adult members of the family, with a string of shows perfect for all ages according to Vanessa.

“There’s a fantastic range of work I think that caters for the family, and we pride ourselves at Civic for creating that environment,” she said.

“For younger families, we have the International bestseller Mr Stink (July 2526), brought to life by Little Britain’s David Walliams, and for youngsters enjoying their first-ever theatre experience, we have gone with the master of wit, Roald Dahl with The Witches (June 3 and 5).

“Older families (I hope) will embrace Jasper Jones as this has some serious thought-provoking themes that I think will encourage an ongoing mature conversation post-show.

“The mix of genre gives us the opportunity to still have something for everyone, but also be able to encourage visitors to experience the new.”

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motivate physical activity among aged care residents. The program was recognised for the social benefits for participants, together with some functional improvement, particularly in balance and upper limb movement.

Anglican Care’s Lifestyle and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, Jane Meldrum said the program has proven to have mental and social health benefits for Anglican Care’s clients.

For more information please visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au

Jasper Jones by Belvoir Productions.

Anglican Care Wins Aged Care & Disability Award Anglican Care has been recognised as a leader in technological aged care programs following their success in winning the Special Commendation prize at the Aged Care & Disability Awards.

Called Life in Motion, the program uses Xbox Kinect games as a therapy medium to

“The residents who take part enjoy the fact they are exercising without actually feeling like it! We have seen decreased sedentary behaviour amongst residents and participants really enjoy the social interaction. It’s also lots of fun, and we all have lots of laughs together,” said Jane.

The Life in Motion program is currently offered throughout Anglican Care’s Hunter, Central Coast and Manning facilities.

Visit www.anglicancare.com.au for more information. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 25

ON TOUR WITH THE KID

All in the Family at The Jack WORDS CHLOE SULLIVAN

When you run your own business, travel can be difficult. When you have the money to go away, it is usually because you're working so hard that you don't have the time. When you have the time, you are concerned you're not busy and possibly don't have the money!

As December approached and I flipped through my diary, it was clear that if the kid and I wanted to spend quality time together, it would mean her coming to work with me. Thankfully I was spending a few days at an event that was designed with families in mind - The Jack Newton Celebrity Classic held at the Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley.

Now I know that days of golf doesn't immediately scream kid-friendly. However, the Newtons are so family orientated that the event caters for not only the golfers but also their partners and children. It's a kid's dream come true.

While still collecting our room key, I could feel a tug on my skirt. The kid had spotted the pool. After some conversation I did convince her that stripping off in the hotel lobby and running for the water was not ideal, though, in all fairness, it had been so hot I did understand the urge. On the promise that we could head over for a swim as soon as we had dropped things off to our room and got changed, I finally dragged her excited little face away from the glass window overlooking the water.

Just the drive from reception to our three bedroom villa across from the tenth hole was full of eye candy to a five-yearold. With an on-site train and a carousel as we rounded the first corner and giant chess set and soccer goals with a ball bigger than she is right outside our room. She knew she was set.

Affectionately known by the regulars as "The Jack", the event has become golf's unofficial Christmas party. With golf pros, amateur players and stars of stage, screen, politics and the sporting fields all coming together.

Raising money for charity, for both Jack Newton Junior Golf and Diabetes research and prevention is always the primary goal but when asked, Jack Newton is most proud of is the

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unlikely friendships that are formed at this unique event. You know when you get the invite, that egos are all left at the door and everyone is treated the same. It's one of the things that makes the event so unique.

With Fireworks from the Foti Brothers (who are responsible for the New Years Eve display on Sydney Harbour) and a flyover from stunt pilot Matt Hall, you would have to work really hard not to be impressed. Though it was difficult to drag the kid away from the stunning dessert table, the ping-pong and the games room - Minion Whack-a-Mole is a little bit addictive!

Over the next few days, the kid and I were equally excited by different things. I was thrilled and a little humbled that I was able to spend some time chatting with one of my idols, former Prime Minister Bob Hawke and the kid was beside herself that she got to see Rhys Muldoon who and I quote "hosts Play School, don't you know."

All the parties were so well done and the familiar faces all happy to stop for a chat and photos with fans makes it feel like you are getting a day long hug. I'm thankful that I have a pretty easy to please kid, who would have been just as happy cruising around with mum in the golf cart.

The best part about The Jack is even if golf is not your thing, it's free for the public to come out and watch the event or if you want to treat yourself you could book a room and soak up the atmosphere. Being a girl who loves doing things on a budget, what better way to kick off the school holidays than a day trip to the Hunter Valley, hanging out by the pool at Crowne and running into Kris Smith, James Tobin or Johnny Ruffo while ordering a quick lunch or a sneaky cocktail!

To find out more about the 2017 event head to www.jacknewtongroup.com

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FORMER CHAMPION SURF LIFE SAVER Desperate to educate about water safety in light of recent drownings Former champion Surf Life Saver and Newcastle resident Boyd Conrick is urging people of all ages to learn about beach safety given what can only be described as a horror summer in the water. Conrick says the significant number of drownings in NSW over the Christmas period (22 people drowned in 25 days at NSW beaches, waterways and pools) were preventable.

Conrick has been a well-respected member of the Surf Life Saving community for more than 20 years, has performed numerous rescues and has spoken at many schools about water safety. He is a former champion Surf Life Saver as well as being a champion triathlete, and is a very well known and respected local identity.

“These deaths were tragic but preventable, and I am determined to get the message about beach safety out there to help prevent these unnecessary deaths.

“The Wooli (north of Coffs Harbour) drowning in December was tragic but typical: a man in his 60s was enjoying Christmas with his nephew, playing on the beach and heard screams coming from the water. Some young girls were stuck in a rip, and he went to their aid. He drowned, and the girls eventually reached safety.

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“This is very tragic, but it is also preventable—I want to shout from the rooftops: swim between the red and yellow flags.”

Conrick is concerned adults who did not grow up in Australia, and who did not learn about water safety, are particularly vulnerable as they don’t understand the dangers a beautiful beach can pose.

As a result, he is passionate about educating children about safety along our coastlines so they will be safe at the beach during their youth and into their adult lives.

He recently launched an illustrated children’s book that educates youngsters on how to stay safe at the beach by swimming between the red and yellow flags erected by Surf Life Savers.

“As a father of two young children, I am saddened at the high occurrence of drowning we still experience on Australian beaches. I have been a volunteer lifesaver for 25 years and firmly believe that educating children early in their lives on how to be safe while enjoying our beautiful beaches can only serve to help reduce these drowning statistics.”

At the Beach with Lizzie and Luke engages children with the fun and excitement of being at the beach but also has a serious message about staying safe, as a child almost drowns because he didn’t swim between the flags. Here are Lizzie & Lukes top tips for staying safe in the water this summer: 1. Always swim at a patrolled beach between the red and yellow flags.

2. Never swim alone.

3. Read the safety signs.

4. Don't swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

5. If you get into trouble in the water, don't panic.

Raise your arm for help, float and wait for assistance.

6. Adult supervision in combination with pool fencing is the most effective method of preventing your child from drowning in a backyard pool.

7. Learn basic first aid and resuscitation.

At the Beach with Lizzie and Luke is available at all 22 Westpac branches throughout Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, and the Hunter Valley as well as good local bookshops and online at www.lizzieandluke.com By purchasing this book, you are supporting Surf Life Saving, a community cause which relies on your donations to continue to save lives and keep our beaches and communities safe. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 27

Fashion + Beauty...

Jeanswest: The Making of a Marble Moment #WestfieldKotara

Pictured: Model wears Jeanswest Aria Cami.

No longer reserved for homewares and interiors, the classic marble print has exploded in recent times.

The subdued pattern brings styles to life with fluidity and added dimension and is an incredibly versatile print.

A stunning take on the trend, our custom made hero print for the collection is literally a work of art. Using the modern, romantic colour palette of dusty rose and dove grey, our product design team got their hands dirty in a one-day marbling workshop.

Marbling involves floating paints on thickened water and then transferring the floating paint onto paper or fabric. If this sounds confusing, take a look at some of our behind the scenes photos from our marbling workshop to see how it’s done!

Lorna Jane

NEW ARRIVALS #WestfieldKotara

Bring in the New Year with new found motivation and kick start your 2017 fitness goals in the latest arrivals of activewear from Lorna Jane. Embrace active living and get dressed in your favourite pieces, whether you are heading to a yoga class, gym session or for everyday leisure wear. With sleek, bright pops of colour through full-length tights, core shorts, tanks and cutout sports bras. The stylish range of activewear will let you perform your best in whatever you love to do.

BOOK A PERSONAL STYLE SESSION WITH WESTFIELD STYLIST KATE KOHLER All personal style sessions of two hours or more come with 5 hours free parking and a one hour complimentary Make-Up Shake-Up lesson at Napoleon Perdis David Jones Visit the concierge desk on Level 2 or email kotaramarketing@scentregroup.com to find out more information

28 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Chantal Monaghan

Meet the Front Line of Summer! #WestfieldKotara Queensland beauty Chantal Monaghan is an Australian model standing on the front line of selfmade international fame. Despite her success as one of Judge Naomi Campbell's favourites on the 2014 model search TV series The Face, Chantal wasn't about to rely on the attention to seal her success.

Scoring a contract with Chic Model Management New York prior to the show even airing in Australia, Chantal meant business, and she's 100% determined write her own success story. We thought that deserved Front Line status and we caught up with Chantal on the set of the summer shoot to chat modelling, diversity and inspirational people. â–ş

CHANTAL MONAGHAN | Q&A Westfield: How were you introduced to modelling?

Chantal Monaghan: I started modelling when I was five, and when I finished high school, I went to Paris. I was scouted when I was 14 in a coffee shop. Then I moved to New York about a year ago.

W: What has been your career highlight thus far?

CM: My career highlight to date is my first job in Paris when I booked the John Paul Gaultier show, and then I booked the Georgio Armani show after that.

W: What advice would you give other girls starting out in the industry?

CM: Be strong, because everything is hard, not just modelling. Lean on family and friends for support and just go for it!

W: Where will we find you when you're not in front of the camera?

CM: When I’m not modelling, I do a lot of charity work, particularly with women's charities that support research for ovarian cancer.

W: What change would you like to see in the modelling world?

CM: There are a few things I think we should change in the modelling industry. In Australia, I believe that we should reach out to more diverse talent. We have started to do that, and I'm happy to see that change.

W: What are you on the Front Line of?

CM: I’m on the front line of promoting diversity in the modelling industry. My mum is Australian, and my dad is Nigerian, so that gives me a unique ethnic background that I'm proud to represent.

W: Who do you look to for inspiration?

CM: The one person who inspires me is my mum; I wouldn’t be here today without her.

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www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 29

HEALTH + WELLBEING //

Ability

BEYOND DISABILITY WORDS KELSEY MOSS

Too often people who have a disability are looked at and judged on the tasks they CAN’T do; rather than what they CAN do. Exercise and physical activity is for EVERY body and is the key factor in improving and maintaining overall health. The benefits of exercise are particularly important for people living with a disability as they tend to live a less active lifestyle than others.

There are currently more than 56 million people in the world living with a disability, and a staggering 58% of those individuals are considered to be obese. My goal as an Exercise Sports Scientist is to encourage as many individuals with a disability as possible to be active in any way and assist in decreasing the above statistics. An individuals’ exercise program does not have to be repetitive with each session they participate in; variety is key in order to maintain their interest and motivation. I ensure programs are changed each week to incorporate various skills and challenge clients to reach their potential; whilst still having fun.

Regular exercise is also important in maintaining emotional health. People living with a disability experience the same emotions as anyone else; however at times they may be more intense. Feelings such as anger, frustration, confusion and depression can all be suppressed with regular exercise due to the endorphins the body releases when being physically active. I encourage participation in either a 1 on 1 program with a professional or being a part of a group where there is potential to meet new friends. It is important to consider “Physability” – the persons’ physical ability, rather than focussing on what they can’t do; disability. By pushing some boundaries and challenging the individual beyond what they think they are capable of; they become eager to learn more, reach higher goals and continue to improve on their abilities.

The final factor to consider is the quality of life – and this is not just for people with a disability. 1 hour of exercise is only 4% of your 30 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Kelsey assists her client Sarah using the Planet Fitness equipment.

day, so introducing regular physical activity into a daily routine is only a subtle change, but will have a greater positive result on the persons’ overall health compared to those who lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

There are three main types of exercise that someone living with a disability can participate in, particularly for those who have limited mobility and require wheelchairs etc: Cardiovascular exercises: Cardio exercise is responsible for raising your heart rate and increasing your endurance. This form of exercise can include walking, running, cycling, dancing, tennis, swimming and water aerobics.

Exercising in water has been especially beneficial to people with limited mobility, as it is non-weight bearing and supports the body as well as reducing the risk of muscle or joint discomfort/pain. Even if you’re confined to a chair or wheelchair, it’s still possible to perform cardiovascular exercises, and with the help of a professional, a program can be tailored to your needs.

Strength exercises: Strength based exercises involve using weights or other resistance such as body weight or bands. The aim of strength exercises is to help build muscle and bone mass, improve balance, and prevent falls. For people who have limited mobility in their legs, the focus will predominately be on strengthening the upper body. Similarly, if they have a shoulder injury or unable to use upper limbs, the focus will be more on strengthening their legs and working on core stability exercises.

Flexibility exercises: Flexibility or better known as stretching can help enhance an individuals’ range of motion, prevent injury, and reduce pain and stiffness. These may include a number of stretching exercises or participation in yoga, which has proven to be extremely beneficial. Even for people who have limited mobility in their legs, for example, they may still benefit from stretches and flexibility exercises to prevent or delay further muscle atrophy.

Kelsey Moss holds a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science and runs her own business, “Physability” – ability beyond disability. Her specialised services can be accessed at Planet Fitness Charlestown. For more information see our website for details www.planetfitness.com.au

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HEALTH + WELLBEING //

3

STEPS

TO GETTING YOUR MOJO BACK! WORDS SONYA TODD-JONES Dip Health Sciences (Pathology), Dip Practice Management, Dip RM. Owner & Manager of Mojo Health Charlestown.

Our modern lifestyle is full of convenience, with constant technological advances making life easier to manage and with information at the tips of our fingers. But why are we still so unhealthy as a nation? Our bodies are no longer functioning as they should and we battle with fatigue, weight gain and brain fog. So how do we make changes for the better? Try these 3 simple steps to reduce inflammation, remove toxins and be at your ideal weight.

Step 1 Alkalise Our bodies sit on the pH scale between 7.35-7.45, which is slightly alkaline (A pH of 0 is totally acidic, a pH of 14 is completely alkaline, and 7 is neutral). However, our 21st

Century diet of highly acidic processed foods, sugar and alcohol can cause inflammation in the body. The best way to tackle this inflammation is by alkalising with apple cider vinegar, chlorophyll or green smoothies which will detoxify and cleanse the body naturally while helping the body to maintain its alkalinity.

Step 2 Detoxing Our bodies have natural systems in place to deal with toxins and to protect our cells. However, diet and lifestyle play important protective roles. The easiest thing that we can do is reduce the toxic burden on our body through healthy diet and lifestyle choices. This can be done by removing all processed foods and drinks from our diet and swap for fresh fruits and vegetables. Herbal tonic preparations are also an excellent way to start as herbs help to support the liver and kidneys while helping to eliminate toxic build-up naturally. Choose organic foods where possible as most fruits and veggies are covered in toxic pesticides which are stored in your liver and may cause disease. Remember to look at the ingredients in your skincare and what are you cleaning your house with as manufacturers make products cheap by adding nasty toxic synthetic ingredients.

Step 3 Weight Loss Our modern lifestyles of convenience foods and sedentary jobs and hobbies (think binge sessions on Netflix!) tends to put a few unwanted kilos onto our frames. As we all know getting the body moving will help manage our weight and the World Health Organisation recommends at least 150 mins of moderate to intense physical activity each week. This can include simple activities such as hiking, swimming or dancing.

If you need a kickstart to your metabolism, there are plenty of herbs to help balance your blood sugar level and burn fat.

Research on herbs such as cinnamon, chromium, Gymnema, Garcinia Cambogia and Green Tea shows that in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise, they can help to speed up your weight loss.

The friendly team at Mojo Health are here to help but always consult with your healthcare practitioner to make sure supplementation is right for you. By fuelling your body with the right nutrients, alkalising and cleansing and moving your body, you will achieve the best health possible and get your Mojo back for good!

How to Detox with ACTIVATED CHARCOAL Activated charcoal is made from a few different sources, but the best is produced from bamboo or coconut shell. (Note to self: don’t head to the backyard BBQ to get your charcoal! This is toxic charcoal and best left for the garbage bin). The process of heating charcoal at high temperatures in the presence of gas causes the charcoal to develop small holes or pores and thereby ‘activating’ it. Activated charcoal traps toxins and chemicals in these pores preventing the body from reabsorbing these nasties.

Traditionally, charcoal was used to treat poisonings and for bloating and flatulence, but with its ability to remove toxins from the body, it is now the go-to product for detoxing.

TOP 3 WAYS TO USE ACTIVATED CHARCOAL 1. Teeth whitening. Activated charcoal whitens teeth by absorbing plaque and tiny food remnants that stain your teeth.

Just dip your wet toothbrush into powdered activated charcoal and brush normally. Focus on those areas with staining. Spit out and rinse mouth until water is clear. Beware if you have crowns, caps or veneers as the activated charcoal could stain them. It can get messy so make sure you have some paper towel ready to clean up, so it doesn’t stain your grout! For best results use twice a week.

2. Skin and body cleansing. Activated charcoal binds with environmental toxins and dirt on your skin to help removal. It’s also great to treat acne and body odour. Skincare products are readily available containing charcoal, or you can whip up your own facial cleanser by mixing one capsule of activated charcoal with 2 teaspoons of aloe vera gel. Apply to face, avoiding the eye area, let dry and then rinse. The paste is also good as a spot treatment.

3. Detoxing. Activated charcoal removes toxins from your system, particularly the digestive tract, which is great when you have indulged over Christmas! If wanting an internal detox, take 1-2 capsules 30-90 mins before each meal for a maximum of 7 days. Always ensure you drink copious amounts of water during a charcoal detox as it can cause constipation. This also helps to flush out the toxins. It is not recommended to consume activated charcoal if you are on certain medications so always check with your health practitioner before using and do not take within 2 hours of any medications or supplements as the charcoal will prevent the body from absorbing them.

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TRAVEL //

Join us for the Festival of Light!

The World's Most Unique Day Tour

Vivid Lights Sydney is a feast for the senses and Sydney's most spectacular outdoor lighting and music festival.

Vivid Light transforms Sydney into a wonderland of ‘light art’ sculptures, innovative light installations and grandscale projections.

For Vivid 2017, itravel has exclusive charter of a Captain Cook Cruise vessel on Saturday 4th June 2017. Our sunset cruise departs at 5pm and onboard you will enjoy a delicious 3 course dinner with drinks, and see the lights of Vivid turn on at 6pm! From the water you will be able to experience the full canvas of the massive projections along the Sydney foreshore from Fort Denison, Circular Quay, The Rocks and Darling Harbour.

Our cruise returns to Darling Harbour at 6.30pm and we offer some free time before heading home at 8pm. Travel to and from Newcastle is by luxury coach.

So you are able to just relax and enjoy the evening!

2016 saw 2.3 million visitors experience the 23 day event and we found cruising was a fabulous way to sit back, enjoy the lights and avoid the crowds!

Cost is $130pp which includes luxury coach travel, the private charter Sunset cruise, 3 course dinner and drinks- and of course the spectacular lights!

If you would like to join us on our Vivid Tour please contact itravel The Junction or itravel Warners Bay to reserve your seat.

itravel The Junction

PH 4962 1116

194 Union Street sales@itravelthejunction.com.au

itravel Warners Bay

PH 4947 1116

Shop 8a, 478 The Esplanade sales@itravelwarnersbay.com.au

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WORDS MEGAN O’SULLIVAN You’re en route to the icy expanse of Antarctica – without a jacket!

But then aboard the privately chartered Qantas 747, the standard rules of travel go out the window. The atmosphere on board is electric. You’re all present for the same reason – to fulfill that bucket list dream of exploring an uncharted continent, without even getting your feet wet. And with up to four hours over the ice

WORLD LUXURY AWARDED HOTEL on our Doorstep

and the remaining hours to enjoy the bespoke service – including premium drinks, delicious meals and talks from Antarctic expeditioners – it’s an experience like no other.

Australia is the only country from which you can take a sightseeing flight over the frozen south. Antarctica Flights operate a handful of one-day sightseeing flights over Antarctica departing from Sydney and Melbourne every summer. Taking around 12 hours the flights are the easiest way to view this great white Continent. The 19 planned routes to match the day’s weather conditions, ensure optimal viewing for everyone on board. Expert Antarctic expeditioners are onboard to talk about the polar environment and its history while video screenings depict life on the ground.

Approximately three hours south of Australia, you will usually see the first scattered ice followed by dozens of icebergs and ice floes. We then cross the South Magnetic Pole where you will start to view the rugged mountainous topography of the Antarctic mainland.

No passports are needed, and you are kept warm and safe with a glass of bubbly in hand while the privately chartered Qantas 747 glides effortlessly over amazing scenery. Every departure is different – no two flights are the same...

This will be unlike any other flight you have ever taken, and nothing can prepare you for the amazing sights you will see. Ensure that your camera batteries are charged and your memory cards are empty as it is not unusual for guests to take over 1,000 photos and lots of video during our flights. itravel The Junction and Warners Bay have put together an exclusive package for the new departure date of Sunday 26th November 2017. The package includes luxury coach travel to and from Newcastle, so you can just sit back and enjoy this unique journey.

Seats will sell out so don’t delay! Become one of the privileged few to witness the desolate beauty of this untamed polar desert. Contact itravel The Junction PH 4962 1116 or itravel Warners Bay PH 4947 1116 for full details.

The Anchorage at Port Stephens has been named among the finest hotels in the world, winning the Luxury Guest House Australia category of the World Luxury Hotel Awards. The award recognises sustained commitment to excellence and outstanding achievement in the international hospitality industry.

At the awards ceremony in Qatar, World Luxury Hotel Awards managing director Anton Perold congratulated the winners, saying they had been honoured for their “tireless efforts and unbounded passion for satisfying their guest's needs”.

The resort, owned by The Wests Group, has undergone major refurbishment in the past two years to bring it up to world-class, and the luxurious additions have now been rewarded.

The Wests Group chief executive officer Philip Gardner said the refurbishments had put Anchorage in a class of its own, and the international award recognised this.

“Anchorage has always had the potential to be the best in its class, and we have transformed it into an internationally recognised luxury destination. The award recognises the efforts of our staff to bring the resort up to world-class standard,” Mr Gardner said.

For more information on the Anchorage, visit www.anchorageportstephens.com.au

ANTARCTICA IN A DAY The world’s most unique scenic flight

NEW DEPARTURE DATE RELEASED! itravel EXCLUSIVE package departing from NEWCASTLE FLIGHT DEPARTS SYDNEY

Welcome to Antarctica – the world’s last great wilderness. Aboard our privately chartered Qantas 747, you will glide over a continent that escapes the boundaries of perception. We’ve been exploring Antarctica by air since 1994 – that’s over 20 years pioneering a land that remains almost entirely undiscovered.

This is a day trip like no other.

Sunday 26 November 2017

itravel exclusive package includes coach return travel from Newcastle, priced from $2,049* per person in Economy Standard Class. Seats are strictly limited.

Call itravel today to secure your seat.

*Terms and conditions apply. ANT197_R

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

34 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Battlesticks at Scratchleys

Everything you've loved about Scratchleys... and so much more.

Battlesticks at Scratchleys is Newcastle’s newest, most iconically situated and chic bar. Offering cocktails, tapas, premium wine and live music in a stunning location that is casual, yet classy.

If you believe in live music 7 Nights a week – we’ve got you covered! Come along and support this great offering!

Other great ways to enjoy Battlesticks include drinks before or after the theatre, before and after lunch or dinner at Scratchleys.

Chill out at Battlesticks and watch the incredibly active Newcastle Harbour from this relaxed but sophisticated bar.

Join us 7 days per week from midday through until late for scrumptious tapas and good times. Live music 7 nights and Friday, Saturday and Sunday afternoons. No Booking required - just turn up and enjoy!

200 Wharf Road, Newcastle | Phone 4929 1111 | www.scratchleys.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 35

ESS - Anonymous Wine Lover

Browse a premium selection of local & imported wines, craft beer, cider & cigars.

enhance your experience with delicacies including fine french cheeses, spices, oils & balsamics, plus much more.

1/38 bolton street, newcastle. ph 4048 0455

open 10am - 7pm sunday to wednesday + 10am - 8pm thursday to saturday

CATCH OF THE DAY...

Wine & Seafood While seafood is a meal to be enjoyed all year around –Summer really is the perfect season to enjoy the bounty of the ocean, with the warmer evenings inviting us to spend more time dining outside.

Good-quality seafood, whether bought or caught, deserves a little effort where the matching of wines is concerned. As a general rule, the more delicately flavoured the fish dish is, the more subtle the wine should be.

SWANSEA - 69 Lakeside Drive, Ph 4971 4762 • OPEN Tues - Fri 8.30am to 4pm + Sat 8.30am to 1pm

But that’s about as far as the rules go.

Have you always followed the old rule of thumb of drinking a bottle of bubbly with oysters, or a zesty Riesling with lobster? While those pairings can certainly be a match made in heaven, it really is too simplistic to say that only crisp, fresh young white wines work with seafood.

Pairing wine with seafood isn't a difficult task (we promise!) When thinking in terms of

For all your Australian, sustainably caught, fresh local seafood needs, you can't go past Newcastle Fishermans Co-Op.

WICKHAM - 97 Hannell Street, Ph 4965 4229 • OPEN Mon - Fri 8.30am to 5pm, Sat 8.30am to 3pm, Sun 10am to 2pm • www.fishcoop.com.au

Award Winning Cuisine... Waterfront Location Situated on the waterfront of beautiful Lake Macquarie, this stylish brasserie boasts an elegant, yet casual, atmosphere with waterfront views from every table.

4/157 Brighton Avenue | Toronto NSW 2283 | PH 4959 7556

Hughzies’ menu caters for all occasions, whether you’re interested in an informal lunch or an à la carte evening indulgence with gluten-free and vegetarian options to suit all diners. Once you’ve completed the main course, be sure to sample the delicious cakes and desserts, which are made fresh in-house.

Open for Breakfast Mon – Sat (Until 2pm), Lunch Mon – Thurs (From Noon until Late Afternoon) and Fri/Sat (Noon until 2pm), Dinner Fri/Sat (6pm until late)

36 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

weight and substance, delicate raw fish and light, shellfish go best with equally delicate, light white wines. Similarly, a piece of grilled swordfish or salmon will go better with a richer, more substantial white.

The general view is that white wine should be served with fish and red wine with red meat, but while there is some validity to that belief, wine drinkers should not limit themselves to any single category. At the end of the day, it is the type of seafood (and the other ingredients on the plate) that will determine the best match for the wine glass.

Semillon is one of the best-kept secrets of the wine world and also the perfect partner for seafood. A zesty young Semillon is an ideal match to delicately flavoured dishes such as raw and lightly cooked shellfish - especially those with Asian flavours, oysters, fresh crab, clams and sashimi. A rich and complex aged Semillon is more suited to fully flavoured dishes, such as grilled fish (especially salmon) or lobster.

Shellfish such as clams, mussels, scallops, as well as crab and lobster call for light whites and sparkling wines. Sparkling wines and oysters are a classic combination. Verdelho is also an ideal wine to accompany shellfish. If the dish is spicy, consider an off-dry Gewürztraminer.

When it comes to lean, simply cooked white fish, the perfect wines to reach for are Chenin Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. Flounder, sea bass, cod, snapper, lobster, shrimp, clams, crab, raw oysters, mussels all do well with these wines. Similarly, light, slightly sweet Riesling pairs well with scallops, clams, grilled prawns, calamari, trout, or baked oysters.

For a meatier fish such as tuna or swordfish, look to match it with a white wine that has a bit more body such as a Viognier or even a Chardonnay. An un-oaked Chardonnay is especially well paired with creamy seafood chowders fresh cod

or, trout, grilled or poached salmon, raw oysters, mussels and even lobster.

Rosé is another category that pairs well with seafood, especially when paired with a thicker meatier fish such as tuna or swordfish - or when adding some spice to the dish.

When it comes to salmon (especially smoked salmon), tuna or swordfish, it pays to look beyond the white varieties and consider a light to medium bodied Pinot Noir or Merlot.

The light body and delicate flavours of these wines will not overpower the fish, and the fish are both meaty enough to match the heavier red wine.

Seafood dishes with garlic, olives or tomatoes can take an earthy red wine, especially Italian varietals like a Tempranillo.

It's about as far removed from a crisp fresh white as you can get, but still, it works.

Lucky for us we don’t have to go too far to pick up this unique drop. Local winery Pokolbin Estate is one of the smallest boutique estates in the Hunter Valley.

With an enviable competition record, Pokolbin Estate have a reputation for producing outstanding wines - particularly with their Riesling, Semillon and Shiraz. They have also had lots of success with their three Mediterranean-style red wines - the premium Spanish variety Tempranillo and the Italian varieties that include Nebbiolo and Sangiovese.

This year, the Pokolbin Estate 2014 Phoenix Shiraz Tempranillo was awarded the Best Young Red Blend in NSW at the 2016 NSW Wine Awards. The wine is made from 50% Shiraz and 50% Tempranillo and aged in brand new French oak for 15 months. This wine is vibrant purple in colour with touches of scarlet and crimson. It possesses a highly aromatic bouquet of raspberry, plum and blackcurrant notes with a hint of vanilla. Try it with an Italianstyle mussel dish. Enjoy!

ESS

Take Your Tastebuds on a Journey...

The unique fine food and casual atmosphere of The Persian Place will take your senses on a journey you won't soon forget.

Function packs* now available from $55 pp (8-50 people). *Includes drinks, terms and conditions apply.

Experience the sharing style Persian menu...

• 99% gluten free •Vegetarian and vegan heaven

Join the Persian Place Club to EAT FREE on your Birthday!

43 Bolton Street, Newcastle PH 4926 5500 Open 7 nights for Dinner 6pm-9pm Thursday - Sunday for Lunch 12pm-2pm www.thepersianplace.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 37

CHOCtastic!

Once worshiped by the Mayan civilisation of Central America and Southern Mexico, who believed it to be of divine origin, over the centuries, the cocoa bean was transformed into a product of mass consumption, throughout Europe and the United States and a massive global industrial chocolate industry was born.

Now universally adored, and at one time the exclusive preserve of aristocrats and elites, chocolate was for centuries a symbol of decadent deliciousness that every common man and woman aspired to taste at least once The first chocolate factories opened in Spain, where the dried fermented beans brought back by the Spanish fleets were roasted and ground. By the 17th century chocolate was a fashionable drink throughout Europe and chocolate powder from which the drink was made, was being exported to other parts of Europe. By this time chocolate was also believed to have nutritious, medicinal and even aphrodisiac properties, but it remained a privilege of the rich largely until it was mass produced in the late 1700's.

Today, chocolate is an $83 billion a year business with Europeans accounting for nearly half of all the chocolate consumed in the world. The average Brit, Swiss or German will each eat around 11 kilograms of chocolate a year.

Chocolate is considered to be one of life's perfect indulgences and in certain regions and parts of the world

chocolate has also proved to be a big tourist drawcard… and in the Hunter Valley, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is the sweetest and most addictive attraction around.

Established in the Hunter Valley more than 16 years ago, the Hunter Valley Chocolate Company is one of the biggest tourist attractions in the region. It’s so popular that they now have three outlets in Pokolbin alone! The first store was opened at Hunter Valley Gardens Shopping Village where chocolate lovers can also take a break from browsing over the seemingly endless choice and relax with a mug of coffee.

The second store is at Peterson House on Broke Road in Pokolbin, and the third and largest outlet is located just further

down the road at ''Twenty-3-Twenty'' Broke Rd. This large barnlike facility also features a large viewing window where the Chocolatiers and Fudge-makers can be observed busily making the range of chocolate and fudge for all three outlets. It’s well worth a visit.

So when you are ready to take a break from wine tasting (did I just say that out loud?), be sure to drop in at any of the three Hunter Valley Chocolate Company retail outlets to view and sample their fine range of delectable chocolates. See for yourself what everyone is talking about and treat yourself to a holiday treat, find the perfect gift for foodie friends or simply indulge.

Hunter Valley

Chocolate Company EST. 1999

FOR LOVERS OF PREMIUM BOUTIQUE WINES AND SENSATIONAL FOOD

Located in the heart of Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Chocolate Company has been a family owned and operated Hunter Valley gem for the last 17 years.

Indulge in the ultimate chocolate experience, with a tantalising range of premium hand-made chocolate and chocolate products plus more than 30 flavours of freshly made fudge!

Open 7 Days 9am – 5pm. Ph 4998 6999 Three Great Locations in Pokolbin:

EMMA’S COTTAGE VINEYARD 438 WILDERNESS ROAD, LOVEDALE 2320 • 02 4998 7734 www.emmascottage.com.au

38 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Twenty-3-Twenty – 2320 Broke Road Peterson House – Broke Road Hunter Valley Gardens – Shop 5, Broke Road

www.hvchocolate.com.au | admin@hvchocolate.com.au

Unmask your favourite wine...

Simple Minds

POKOLBIN ESTATE VIN EYARD

The

PARTY VIBES

IN THE VINES In one of the upcoming summer’s more captivating tours, the majestic Simple Minds will team with the party vibes of The B-52s for a massive Australian tour this month. Both bands, who are much-loved by Australian fans, will roam through a day on the green wineries nationally including Bimbadgen, Hunter Valley on Saturday, February 11.

Scotland’s Simple Minds and Athens, Georgia natives The B-52s may be from opposite sides of the globe, but what they have in common is that elusive combination of critical acclaim, cult status and mainstream success, including in Australia.

Australia was the first country in the world to embrace Simple Minds, giving the band its first ever hit single Love Song and first Gold album New Gold Dream. The love affair has continued ever since through countless charttoppers like Don’t You (Forget About Me), Alive and Kicking, Promised You A Miracle, Glittering Prize and Waterfront spanning eight Top 20 albums and hugely successful concert tours.

Their 16th album “Big Music” released 18 months ago rekindled the band’s energy and attitude and won rave reviews.

“It’s been said Simple Minds has a love affair with Australia and I think that’s true. It was the first country anywhere in the world to give us success, and from our very first tours, we’ve always had a wonderful bond with Australian audiences. We have so many fantastic memories and can’t wait to be playing there again,” says frontman Jim Kerr.

When the B-52s toured Australia for a day on the green in 2009, the response was overthe-top! Irreverent and hugely entertaining,

the band’s cosmic appeal was irresistible.

“Who else offers helium-voiced go-go girls, a camp, barking (in every sense) frontman and sprawling sci-fi new wave? Yes, they look and often sound fantastic, with steely surf guitar riding waves of propulsive rhythms to the Love Shack and back. (SMH) The B-52s irrepressible live shows and massive hits like Rock Lobster, Private Idaho, Roam and the barnstorming Love Shack, which notched up eight weeks at #1 on the Australian charts, have endeared them to audiences worldwide.

For a day on the green shows only, Simple Minds and the B-52s will be joined by two of the 80's most innovative and eclectic bands Models and Machinations.

Visit the only vineyard in the Hunter Valley to produce Riesling and Winner - Best Riesling in Australia 2011

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

● ● ● ● ● ●

Premium Hunter Valley wines Cellar Door Open 10am - 5pm Daily Beautiful farm fresh olive and providore products for tasting and sales Fabulous accommodation overlooking the vines Emersons Café & Restaurant and Hunter Valley Reflections Day Spa on-site Centrally located 3 minutes from M15 Hunter Expressway (Lovedale exit) 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

B52s

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39

ing Now tast ous the fabul ter 2014 Hun Shiraz!

2014 - arguably the best vintage in 50 years or more!

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 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Image credit: Brent Leggett

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

Located at Roche Estate, 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.

J A PA N E S E T H A I C U I S I N E

ADDRESS Roche Estate Complex, Corner of Broke and Mcdonald Rd’s, Pokolbin RESTAURANT 7 Days, Lunch and Dinner PH (02) 4998 7051 W www.oishii.com.au

James Halliday - TOP 100 WINERY Meerea Park is considered to be in the top echelon of boutique wineries, not only in the Hunter Valley, but Australia as well, carrying the rare and prestigious 5 Red Star and Red Name rating from James Halliday.

Established in 1991, Meerea Park has built a reputation on producing high quality Semillon, Chardonnay and Shiraz. Many of these wines are from ‘Individual Vineyard’ origin.

Visit the cellar door located within the Roche Estate complex to sample and purchase from the highly awarded range of wines.

ADDRESS Roche Estate Complex, Pavilion B, 2144 Broke Road, Pokolbin NSW 2320 OPEN 7 days 10am - 5pm PH (02) 4998 7474 W www.meereapark.com.au

MASTERING PAELLA!

For many, the traditional Spanish dish known as "Paella" is a favourite meal, and now you can not only experience the unique tastes of coastal Spain right here in the Hunter you can also learn how to make one of the tastiest and most flavoursome dishes in the world.

The home of paella is Valencia in Spain and is said to be the perfect mixture of Spanish and Arabic culture. From humble beginnings, paella was the food of farmers and those working the land. It was cooked in a giant pan over a wood fire and served as a lunch time meal using locally sourced ingredients to add flavour.

The basis for a good paella is white rice, green vegetables and sofrito (a sauce consisting of garlic, onion, paprika, peppers and tomatoes cooked in olive oil) - after that, it's up to the creative talents of the cook.

The word Paella has a number of different origins – the most romantic of them suggests that the dish was first prepared by a lover for his fiancée and the word is a collaboration of “para ella” (meaning “for her” in Spanish).

As with all dishes created in rural townships, the consistency, ingredients and especially the taste varies from village to village and even household to household.

Some say true ''Paella Valencia'' must be cooked outside over a fire made of orange branches, dished up with a boxwood spoon and eaten only at midday.

The one thing we do know is that traditionally paella is made on a Sunday and because women need a day off from cooking it is usually made by the men.

From March to August this year, you can take part in a hands-on paella cooking class and learn how to cook authentic Spanish paella, tasty Spanish churros and of course sangria with local paella expert - Matt Dillow.

Matt is the owner and head chef of The Verandah Restaurant in Pokolbin, a tapas style restaurant strongly influenced by Matt's frequent visits to Spain. Paella fits the ''sharing'' nature of tapas style dining as it is cooked over the stove and often eaten straight from the pan - the perfect communal dish On the menu is Spanish Iberico Jamon with fresh baked Spanish bread, Spanish paella served with sangria (deadly but delicious Spanish wine punch) and Churros - a Spanish style doughnut, with chocolate dipping sauce.

Buen provecho!

Classes are held on Sundays - March 5, April 23, June 4, 11, 18, 25 and August 6 with classes starting at 9am and finishing at 12.30pm. Cost is $95 pp and bookings are essential. To book please phone 4998 7231 or email bookings@verandahrestaurant.com.au. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41

Big crowds get down to Merewether beach on Super Surfest Sunday 2016 final day. Photo by ThrowingBuckets.com

AUSTRALIA’S LARGEST SURFING FESTIVAL

Celebrating Community

right-handers were the training grounds for the likes of event patron Mark Richards, Luke Egan, Matt Hoy, Simon Law, Nicky Wood and Ryan Callaghan where they developed the talents WORDS PAUL SCOTT that enabled them to mix it with the best in the world. Recent Like an annual king tide, Surfest floods many Novocastrian improvements to the area as part of the Bathers Way project minds each year with carefree memories of a time when all undertaken by Newcastle City Council area include terrific that mattered was to get to the beach and get on a surfboard. seating arrangements for those wanting to get a close-up look The nostalgic power of Surfest is cemented in the Novocastrian at the action. psyche partly through the sheer depth of the city’s relationship The waves that peel down the rock and sand bottom off with the coast and its appreciation of the outstanding surfers Merewether beach attract both competitors and spectators. who have claimed Surfest men’s and women’s crowns. That list It’s at Merewether that the competition’s patron Mark Richards is comprised of elite sportspeople who have also won multiple honed the dance on water that would see him win four world world surfing championships and includes Tom Curren, Damien titles – more than any other male competitor in the world, Hardman, Kelly Slater, Tom Carroll, Mick Fanning, Stephanie except for the ‘Floridian freak’ and 11-time world champion Gilmore and Pam Burridge.

Kelly Slater (who claimed his Surfest crown in 2004). MR – or The seed of Surfest originated in 1985 when Newcastle’s the mayor of Merewether as locals admiringly refer to him as movers and shakers were desperately trying to rid the city of he strolls along John Parade looking for a wave – was named its grime-ridden industrial image and showcase the beauty of at Surfing Australia’s 50th anniversary as the most influential Newcastle’s beaches and surf breaks to people from outside Australian surfer from 1963-2013. The University of Newcastle of the region. They were looking for a way to let others know awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2004 for his tireless what locals had already long known - and that there was way contributions to charity. And if you are interested even just a more to the region than the smokestacks and blast furnaces bit in the art of surfboard shaping, make sure to follow MR on that some media always focused on. Those movers and shakers Instagram at @markrichardssurfboards for some of the coolest were visionaries who developed the BHP Steel International – posts emanating from this great city.

Surfest’s first incarnation and the richest professional surfing The jewels in the 2017 Surfest crown are two world event in the world at that time. Yes, that’s right – it was the qualifying series 6000 events – the men’s Maitland and richest professional surfing competition on the planet in 1985.

Port Stephens Toyota Pro and the Anditi Women’s Pro to be Remember 1985? We are the world. Live Aid. The release of contested from February 21-26. The 2017 Anditi Women’s Pro the Nintendo gaming system. The very first Back to the Future was crowdfunded with 85 shares sold to Hunter businesses. movie?

Both world qualifying series events provide an opportunity for And it’s back to the future for Surfest in 2017. In more the points that surfers need if they are to compete on the elite than three decades since those heady days, Surfest has since world championship tour, as each year the bottom ten surfers become Australia’s largest surfing festival. The 32nd Surfest on that tour are replaced by the highest ranked 10 surfers from (there was no event in 1991 due to the reorganisation of the the qualifying series tour. Hunter-based health fund nib has professional surfing tour) in 2017 will host nine different surfing backed the junior event for the second successive year and events – with some having numerous competitions – attracting the nib Pro Junior for both male and female surfers will run at more than 700 surfers from 26 countries to Merewether beach. Merewether beach during 11-12 February.

All are competing to get their names etched into the record In 2017, Newcastle is the first stop on the World Surf books.

League’s “big event” Australasian leg of the international men’s Crowned a national surfing reserve in 2009, Merewether and women’s professional surfing tour calendar. The pro-tour really shows its class when southerly swells fanned by northincludes 6000 point qualifying series events at Newcastle and west winds barrel through from third reef, providing rides where Manly, while the Gold Coast, Bells Beach and Margaret River a surfer’s bravado and ability can be fully tested. Those fabled host world championship tour events.

42 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

But it’s not just all about the pro-surfers. What separates Surfest from many other professional surfing events is the emphasis placed upon community and grass roots surfing competition. In the past few years, Surfest has stretched its wings to run events in all three local government areas that cover the Hunter coastline – Newcastle, Port Stephens and Lake Macquarie. Same again in 2017.

Additionally, the Wandiyali ATSI Indigenous Classic 2017 will offer the nation’s biggest purse for indigenous surfers.

Aboriginal surfers from as far away as Western Australia hone in on Merewether to renew friendships and try and take home some of the $20,000 on offer. Indigenous surfers have always been very welcome at Surfest and Wandiyali’s commitment through the provision of such attractive prize money cements a connection stretching back around two decades.

Surfest organisers think that the event is more than a great surf competition – it is a celebration of a city and its people and their special relationship with Australian beach culture.

Most of all, Surfest organisers are thrilled that they can provide the people of Newcastle and the rest of the world – through an event webcast – with the opportunity to see how this former engine room for steel production has reinvented itself to host non-stop surfing action in one of Australia’s most beautiful cities.

Surfest Newcastle Australia is backed by major sponsors Destination NSW and Maitland and Port Stephens Toyota. Kim Burton from Maitland and Port Stephens Toyota has invested more than $1.5 million in sponsorship in a relationship with the event stretching back 16 years. Logistically, with the event largely reliant on the ongoing commitment and contribution of volunteers, every Surfest remains a significant challenge.

But it’s a challenge that Newcastle, a city renowned for giving people a shot and encapsulating the Australian ethos of a fair go, would not have any other way. Watch all the action at Merewether beach or live on www.surfest.com Sally Fitzgibbons and Matt Wilkinson will be back to defend their crowns in 2017. Photo

by ThrowingBuckets.com

that’s an admirable thing for the governing authority to do.

“But I’m sure they … don’t want to be in charge of the football club long term and as supporters of rugby league in this region and supporters of having a national sporting team in this region, nobody in the Hunter or the broader catchment should be supportive of the governing body being in charge of our team either.

“My fear in this is… that more and more in professional sport, in national level sport in Australia the commercial imperative is taking sway of decision making.

“The consequence of that is where sporting teams are not seen to be economically viable long term. Those particular licences are at risk of being relocated to a market where they are anticipated to be financially sustainable.

“I’ve been here 30 years, and we’ve had soccer come and go and come back. We’ve had basketball come and go and come and go. We’ve had netball come and go, and we’ve been fortunate enough to keep rugby league, albeit tenuously from a financial perspective, but we’ve kept it going.

“But now we’re at the crossroads ownership by the governing body is entering its third year – that won’t and can’t continue. If we want to ensure the long-term viability of the Newcastle Knights in this region, my view on it is that we need to take responsibility for it.”

While Mr Tew said he knew of no other examples of a community ownership model for a national level sporting club in Australia, the group has taken inspiration from American NFL team the Green Bay Packers and European football club Barcelona, which successfully operate fan-based ownership models.

“The ownership structure is akin to what is in existence in places like FC Barcelona and places like the Green Bay Packers,” he said.

“Our proposal is that we would register two companies, one an over-arching public company limited by guarantee wherein there’s a board of directors elected by paying shareholders, and that board of directors would manage the capital raised through the sale of shares.

“Subordinate to that board would be a second company wherein the Knights Rugby League Club is run and managed, and where the interests of the annual ticketed members reside.

“There’s a layer of protection between where the capital is managed and where the football club is run, and the football club entity would make applications through the budget to the overarching trust manager for their annual funds each year.”

The model is targeting a commitment of $20 million in relinquished by Nathan Tinkler’s Hunter Sports Group in 2014. capital from the shareholders, but unlike large enterprises that Mr Tew said the local consortium came together in October can get overrun by the interests of one major shareholder, this last year after the NRL opened expressions of interest from model will cap any individual shareholding at 4% - ensuring the potential buyers for the club. club remains owned by the wider community.

His co-facilitators include a mix of those with direct links While the figure is daunting, Mr Tew said it was set to to the Knights such as Sharp Electronics Group Chairman and account for financial losses forecast for the club, which he was former Knights Director John Duncan. Add to the mix solicitor led to believe would be to the tune of $3-$3.5 million this year and Newcastle Knights Members Club Chairman Nick Dan, and likely for some years to come. as well as some other high-profile Newcastle businessmen It would also allow for the provision of up to $7 million, including entrepreneur Andrew Poole, Newcastle Now Executive which could potentially be matched dollar for dollar by the State Manager Michael Neilson, Out of the Square Media Managing Government subject to a successful funding application, for the Director Marty Adnum, and former NBN sports presenter Mike establishment of the centre for excellence – a community asset Rabbitt.

Mr Tew said would be of value to all members of the region’s The common link between all of them is their firm belief that sporting community. the club’s best chance for a secure future is in the hands of the Since revealing their bold plan last December, the group community. That and the very realistic fear that ownership by has received overwhelming support for the model. However, someone outside of the area could one day see the Knights lost the next eight weeks will be the real crunch time in terms of to Newcastle altogether. whether they will be able to get it over the line.

“We’re now moving into our third year with the governing “We always had an anticipation that it would be well body having care and control of our football club,” Mr Tew said. received, I think it’s fair to say that we’ve been surprised with “I’m very appreciative of the fact that the NRL has been how well it’s been received, the numbers are as good if not underpinning the losses in the previous two years and they’re better than we anticipated,” Mr Tew said. underpinning what are budgeted losses for the next year, and “We’re sufficiently enthused enough from the response ► L to R: Andrew Poole, Michael Neilson, Rob Tew, Marty Adnum, Nicolas Dan , Mike Rabbitt. (Missing is John Duncan, who is one of the driving forces behind the project).

Get Behind Our Knights And Support Our Community WORDS MICHELLE MEEHAN - Features Writer

Securing the future of the Knights is a job for more than just the rugby league club’s fans according to one of the men dedicated to keeping the team in Newcastle. Foundation player and Knights life member Rob Tew is one of seven like-minded businessmen who have collectively put forward a community ownership model for the Newcastle club to the NRL. The “Our Knights” proposal, which was announced in December, aims to raise $20 million by selling up to 40,000 shares in the club, worth $500 each.

The money would allow the Knights to become financially sustainable for the first time in their 30-year history, while also planning for the development of a centre of excellence in the Hunter that would focus on all sports rather than just rugby league.

Most importantly, it would solve the present ownership dilemma faced by the club, which has seen its licence held by the sport’s governing body since it was controversially

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43

to now go down this path of ramping up the awareness campaign from the start of this month and I would expect that by the end of March we would need the evidence of something in the order or 15,000 or 20,000 parties supportive of what we’re proposing to do.

“We’re getting support from a range of areas but what has surprised us is that overwhelmingly we’ve got a surprisingly high proportion of support from the general public - Ma and Pa households.

“The business community may well be looking at this and requiring more information from us in respect to the particular business entity structure, which will be detailed on our website early this month. But none of us, either anecdotally or in the responses to our website, have received an out and out refusal to support it. Overwhelmingly the sentiment’s positive, albeit many parties are requiring more information, which is understandable.”

One look at the group’s website, ww.ourknights.com.au, certainly reveals the way in which the proposal has struck a chord with many people, with testimonials of support coming from all sectors of the community including former players, business leaders and owners, high profile Hunter sportspeople and of course, Knights fans.

But while it is not surprising to see the tried and true supporters lending their voices and committing their chequebooks to the cause, Mr Tew said it was important the wider business community understood the importance of ensuring the Knights remained within the region.

He said retaining the Knights was about more than just rugby league – it was about ensuring the multimillion dollar economic windfall of having a national level team within our midst wasn’t lost to local businesses.

Mr Tew said an analysis was completed in the early 2000s that looked at the ancillary spending in the community that resulted from having the Knights operating in Newcastle.

44 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

In today’s terms, it would equate to $80 million being injected into the local economy each year.

“If you put that into context, economically the Knights are a vital part of our local economy,” he said.

“There’s critical economic reasoning that businesses need to understand. Even if you don’t support rugby league, you should support having national level enterprises in your city because the multiplier spending that’s derived from those national enterprises is beneficial for all business.”

But the spin-offs of a national level sporting team don’t end there.

“The other thing to remember is that when you’re conducting and managing and representing national level sport in a locality, you build a reputation for being able to do it and in so doing you became a party that becomes a go-to city for other similar types of national enterprise, one leads into another,” Mr Tew said.

“I’ve no doubt the fact that the Knights were here was confidence enough for Football Federation Australia to realise they needed to keep the Jets entity here.

“And we wouldn’t have a national stadium here if we didn’t have the Jets and the Knights. There’s no way in the world we would have got government spending of millions of dollars to upgrade that stadium, we would have still had two chicken sheds over there next to a racing track, but we don’t, we’ve got a national standard stadium as a direct consequence of having national sporting level teams plying their trade from our city.

“The fact that you have national level sporting teams operating out of your town also attracts superior medical practitioners with more acute, different skill bases than what you would otherwise have for a different type of population here - those people don’t come to the Hunter unless they are able to apply their trade at the cutting edge of professional sport.

“I think it’s important for people who are not necessarily rugby league people, to realise the benefit of having a national level team in their midst.”

While the NRL is expected to conduct its own independent survey in coming months to gauge support for the proposal, Mr Tew said it was essential this would be backed up by people registering their commitments of support via the “Our Knights” website.

“The bottom line from this proposal is there is a really steep hill to climb, we’re confident that this community has the appetite, but this community needs to show the powers that be that run rugby league in this country that it does have the appetite,” he said.

“People, and especially local business need to, at this stage, get on our website and register their interest.

“That doesn’t mean that they need to part with their money today, but they do need to show that they’re supportive of this structure of professional sport in this region and they’re prepared, at some point down the track, to take responsibility for their national level sporting team.

“As a community together, we need to take responsibility for those things we can assume the responsibility for.”

For more information or to register your support visit www.ourknights.com.au and look out for pop-up registration booths that will soon start appearing around town (check the facebook for locations). Drop by, meet the team and register your interest. Let's make history and make the Newcastle Knights our Knights.

MOTORING //

Introducing the all-new

Mercedes-AMG 43 Range WORDS CHRIS HYDE Hunter Star Motors

An AMG isn’t just a car, it’s an experience. It is driving performance from over four decades of engineering art that’s in the DNA of every vehicle in the Mercedes-AMG range.

The new Mercedes-AMG 43 range introduces exciting new engines to the AMG stable — scintillating engineering packages, true to the spirit of AMG.

If you’re in need of something a bit more spacious, the E43 will be available in the first half of 2017. It runs an upgraded version of the 3.0-litre twin-turbo unit found in the AMG C43 now producing 295kW and an unchanged 520Nm. Standard 4MATIC boasts a rear-biased torque distribution of 69 per cent that interestingly enough is 2.0 percent greater than the C43.

Driving through a nine-speed automatic.

Air suspension and a more direct steering ratio are AMG-specific changes to the brand-new E-Class platform, complemented by 19-inch alloy wheels and chrome-plated quad exhaust pipes.

Sports seats, an AMG instrument cluster with Race timer function and Nappa leather steering wheel with red stitching appears inside to lift the S-Class-like dashboard design of the new E-Class.

Unique AMG components for the E43 include special steering knuckles and load-bearing joints, increased negative camber on both the front and rear axles, and more rigid elastokinematics.

And for something with a bit more ground clearance, there is the GLC 43. For now, this is the GLC range's new hero and fills the role nicely. Standard gear includes AMG's adjustable air suspension with Comfort, Sport and Sport+ modes to give it a more dynamic edge than the rest of the range.

Driven sedately the GLC43 has all the same manners you're accustomed to with the GLC, but when you get the chance to unleash the full potential of the engine, it doesn't disappoint.

There's a mean growl from the V6 that matches strong midrange punch.

Form follows performance, and the unique AMG 43 motoring experience opens up a new world of driving exhilaration for those wishing to enter the exciting world of Mercedes-AMG. AMG, which is going to celebrate its 50th anniversary in 2017, created the 43 model lineup for customers that want a sportier driving experience but don’t necessarily need the highend performance figures of the 63-series models.

In place of the barking V8 of the more upscale C 63, the C 43 provides 270KW of power and 520Nm of torque, thanks to a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, paired with a nine-speed For more information or to test drive the full AMG 43 range, visit automatic and (unlike the C 63) 4Matic all-wheel drive. the Hunter Star Mercedes-Benz showroom at 1 Pacific Highway The C 43 range stands apart thanks to AMG front and rear Bennetts Green or online at www.mbnewcastle.com.au styling with AMG’s Night Package black-out treatment, and 43-specific AMG 19-inch wheels.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 45

LOOKING TO BUILD? Look no further than A McCLOY COMMUNITY!

Often buyers assume building a brand new home is beyond their budget or something for later in life.

However, new residential communities are providing buyers with the opportunity to build their dream home much earlier and more affordably than first thought.

Hunter based property company, the McCloy Group, create national award-winning master-planned communities. They have a true passion for developing quality and sustainable environments in which people love to live.

In Medowie, for instance, you can now find 1000 to 4000 square meter homesites, still nearby both Newcastle CBD and the beaches of Port Stephens. The Bower is a new residential community that spans across 57 hectares, the remaining 70 hectares will be preserved as state conservation area and open

space. Proving to be popular, the first stage was released in October of last year with homesites selling out in the first 48 hours.

Following suit, the second stage priced from $215,000 for a 1000 square meter block also sold out within days.

The next release is due this month. McCloy Group’s Managing Director, Brian Swaine believes homesites have the best of both worlds in the Hunter with the untouched beaches of Port Stephens to the north, the vineyards to the west and Lake Macquarie to the south, all within an easy hour drive to Newcastle’s CBD and other work opportunities.

“You no longer have to wait for retirement or move far away from the conveniences of city living to be able to enjoy owning your own new home. Now you can live within 20-40 minutes of Newcastle’s CBD and beaches and more affordably in some cases than purchasing an existing home” said Mr. Swaine.

Heritage Parc is the Group’s residential community near Maitland that was named the state’s best residential development at the 2014 UDIA Awards. Over half of the site is dedicated to open space with 11 parks and playgrounds and expansive waterways interconnected by cycleways and walking tracks.

The neighbourhood offers superior facilities, which will include barbecue and picnic amenities, a community garden, a dog exercise area, sporting fields and an outdoor art gallery.

Stage 12, The Cycleway Release has been announced for February this year, consisting of 20 homesites ranging in size from 490 to 661 square meters. Ideal home sites for families looking to upsize or downsize into their dream home.

Potter’s Lane, Raymond Terrace is another McCloy residential community which conveys affordability with a convenient location just 15 minutes to local employment opportunities and 25 minutes to Newcastle. This estate is early in its establishment stage, currently selling 576 to 1,440 square meter homesites from $173,000.

For those seeking life by the lake, look no further than Billy’s Lookout a residential community, in Teralba offering an enviable lakeside lifestyle on the doorstep to Lake Macquarie’s natural playground within a short drive to Newcastle CBD. Additional homesites were released to market in January of this year ranging in size from 532 to 722 square meters, starting at $215,000. Best be quick to ‘catch’ these homesites, all you need is a 5% deposit.

“This is a premium land release that showcases the real advantages of living in this beautiful part of the world,” said Mr. Swaine. “There are no major new land releases on the western side of the lake from Cooranbong to the north end of the lake so this is a unique opportunity for people who are looking at building or buying a new homesite to secure land so close to the lake,” he said.

Purchasers within a McCloy community can expect the highest quality of living environments, as McCloy Group place a strong emphasis on vibrant public art and aesthetically pleasing streetscapes. They build children’s parks, playgrounds and cycleways, and plant mature trees. Dedicated open space for families to enjoy is a must within McCloy communities.

For more information about McCloy Group and their residential communities visit www.mccloygroup.com.au/communities

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