Newcastle & Lake Macquarie | September 2016

Newcastle and Lake Macquarie

TM

ISSUE #15 //SEPTEMBER 2016 WWW.INTOUCHMAGAZINE.COM.AU

SPRING

// F E A T U R E

ANDRÉ RIEU

COMES TO NEWCASTLE Celebrating Chinese Culture at two Hunter Festivals Spring into Racing at the Hunters Most Spectacular Racing Event Jimmy Barnes Family Reunion at Lizotte’s From Broadmeadow to West End for Declan Egan

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

and the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce.

WHAT'S ON //

It will be held between two culturally significant events on the Chinese calendar – the MidAutumn Festival and China National Week – and is a celebration of the close ties Newcastle shares with its Asian neighbour according to University Director of Strategic Institution Relations (Greater China) Rhys Palmer.

“Newcastle China Week celebrates our region’s growing economic, cultural and social ties with China and is a chance to experience and learn more about this fascinating country,” he said.

Celebrating Cultural Ties

2016 NEWCASTLE

CHINA WEEK! WORDS: MICHELLE MEEHAN

A celebration of Chinese culture will be on the menu this month when the third annual Newcastle China Week returns to the region.

“Many of our international students who choose to live in Newcastle while studying at the University are from China. On returning home, they remember their time and experience in Newcastle with great fondness and are great ambassadors for Newcastle.

“We are also seeing increasing Chinese investment, tourism and business development in Newcastle. The recent purchase of the Newcastle Jets Football Club by a Chinese consortium is one example.”

Newcastle China Week will kick off on Saturday, September 17 with the inaugural Noodle Night Market and Outdoor Cinema, with the free event set to run from 5pm to 10pm.

And those looking to indulge in a slice of Shanghai should be sure to check out the biggest event on the China Week calendar – the Pop-Up Chinatown Street Festival being held on Beaumont Street, Hamilton from 10 am to 3pm on Sunday, September 25.

Featuring all the glitz and glamour of traditional Chinese cultural icons including giant golden dragons and lavishly costumed dancers, the festival will offer you the chance to immerse yourself in a colourful and vibrant marketplace for a day of fun for the whole family.

Learn to say hello in Chinese, try your hand at calligraphy or regroup in Tai Chi workshops offered by the passionate teachers from the Confucius Institute.

Be mesmerised by Chinese Lion dancers, swept away by Chinese dance and enthralled with musical performances that range from traditional to toe-tapping!

There will also be chances to unleash your competitive side with chopstick competitions, while foodies can learn the art of dumpling making with hands-on workshops.

Beijing Opera face painting, photo opportunities with a range of roving Chinese dragons or a cuddle with the Giant Panda are sure to keep the kids enthralled during the festival as well.

Of course, there’s also a serious side to Newcastle China Week, with a Chinese Business Forum being held from 8am to 1pm on Thursday, September 22.

The event will provide an insight into the growing business connections and opportunities between China and the Hunter Let your taste buds transport you to the Orient with flavoursome Region, with presentations from local and national industry specialists designed to help guide and build a strategy to fare from more than 10 hawker-style Chinese and Asiansuccessfully take on the world’s second largest economy. influenced food trucks before sitting back on the sprawling grassland surrounds of Hamilton’s Gregson Park to take in Visit www.newcastlechinaweek.com.au for more details and a showing of the 2014 Hong Kong Chinese fantasy film The program updates.

Monkey King, starring celebrated martial artist Donnie Yen. Those wanting to step the pace up a notch will also be sure to enjoy DJ and solo sets from Sydney’s “king of the keytar” Dyan Tai.

More than 30,000 locals and visitors alike are expected to flock The Malaysian-born singer-songwriter is well known for his to a packed program of events from September 17-25, offering colourful performance style, offering a mix of electronic, indie everything from a taste of China with traditional cuisine, to the and pop influenced original music. Earlier this year he released sights and sounds of the Asian nation on the big screen and in a new single titled Time Machine, which has been featured on the streets.

MTV Australia.

The event is an initiative of the University of Newcastle’s Confucius Institute, in partnership with Newcastle City Council

Chinese Mini Film Festival in their diaries from September 22 to 24, with Newcastle’s Tower Cinemas set to screen some of the country’s most culturally exciting flicks from 6pm each night.

Movie buffs keen to continue their journey through contemporary Chinese cinema will be sure to include the

WIN!

Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au and head to the GIVEAWAYS PAGE for your chance to win one of 3 double passes to the Chinese Contemporary Film Festival at Tower Cinemas on Thursday 22, Friday 23 and Saturday 24 September.

Competition closes September 15th, 2016 – Good Luck!

STREET FESTIVAL • NOODLE NIGHT MARKET + OUTDOOR CINEMA BUSINESS FORUM • FILM FESTIVAL

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INSIDE INTOUCH

WIN! PAGE 21

From the Editors...

The first month of Spring is always magic - we kiss goodbye to freezing mornings and put the heaters away for another year… it’s time to get out and about and enjoy everything that the great outdoors of Newcastle and Lake Macquarie has to offer.

Outdoor concerts abound throughout the Spring months, and we’ve got plenty of them for you to read about, book tickets for and attend in this issue. If you’ve never visited Dashville, then this is the time to do it, as the annual Dashville Skyline Festival rocks through the long weekend with a stellar lineup of performers celebrating the birth of Americana music and culture.

The inaugural Rock Symphony in the Vines hits the stage at Hope Estate in October when some of the countries most notable musicians along with the Australian Symphony Orchestra combine to present the music of the legendary David Bowie.

There’s also a plethora indoor concerts to be enjoyed. Novocastrian Zoe K has travelled a long way in her journey as a musician and this month she returns to share her musical journey. Jimmy Barnes will return to Lizotte's for two sold-out shows and of course, it would be remiss of us not to mention that virtuoso of the violin – André Rieu.

For a man who puts more bums on seats than Cold Play, AC/DC and Bruce Springsteen, Andre is one of the most down to earth and approachable celebrities we have interviewed to date – which is why he’s our cover story this month. Plus, we also suspect that tickets to his Newcastle show will be sold out by the time October rolls around – so read the story – then book the tickets!

A celebration of Chinese culture will be on the menu this month when the third annual Newcastle China Week returns to the Hamilton and the first annual Moon Festival kicks off in the Hunter Valley. With dragons and noodles galore, lion dancers, night markets, Tai Chi, loads of dumplings or many, many moon cakes, both festivals really are “must visit” – in fact, we suggest you go to both!

Finally, Spring would not be Spring without the Annual Spring Racing Carnival at Newcastle Jockey Club, Broadmeadow. So shine up the shoes, find the fascinator and don the dress, then head out to enjoy two spectacular race days and of course the lovely Natalie Bassingthwaite at Broadmeadow and kick off those Winter blues once and for all. Enjoy!

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

Features

ISSUE #15 SEPTEMBER 16

3

2016 Newcastle China Week

6

The Irresistible and Charismatic André Rieu

14

A Musical Journey for the Hunter's Zoe K

19

A Celebration of Asian Culture in the Hunter Valley

23

Spring Weddings Feature

23

Take Some Time to Plan Your Honeymoon

34

Be S.M.A.R.T with Your Goals

36

Discover Japan

39

Culinary Scholarship Winner Carves out a Career

48

Looking to Tokyo 2020

50

From Broadmeadow to West End - Declan Egan

52

Jump into Spring with a Wall of Flowers

54

Transforming for the Digital Age at Harper Property

5

Top Five on Five

10

What’s on Guide

32

Fashion + Beauty

33

Health + Wellbeing

Contacts

43

On Your Doorstep

46

Education + Training

49

Family + Community

52

Home

Marketing & Account Management Di von Essen & Carla Elkin Graphic Design Jess Codrington Features Writer Michelle Meehan © Copyright 2016 Two Tribes Media. Published monthly by Two Tribes Media. All rights reserved. Permission to reprint or quote excerpt granted by written request only. While every attempt has been made, Two Tribes Media cannot guarantee the legality, completeness or accuracy of the information presented and accepts no warranty or responsibility for such.

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36 Travel

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 Distribution Express Letterbox Distribution

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Contents//

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

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

We moved away from the traditional shop front with window card displays and instead consider our shop front to be our open homes where we have the opportunity to be in front of our clients.

- PAGE 54

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Eat//Sip//Savour

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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!

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Contributors He’s the maestro of the masses, the Dutch King of the Waltz – one of the biggest selling male touring artists in the world today. And after a three-year wait, Australian audiences will once again be dancing in the aisles next month when international superstar André Rieu returns to the country for a run of eight shows, including Newcastle.

Carla Elkin Di von Essen Therese Ferry Andrea Ciotti Mel Murray Sarah Saffo Daniel Kilpatrick Scott Webster

Michelle Meehan Quentin von Essen Sonya Todd-Jones Deborah Bartlett Dana Fischetti Claire Edwards Samantha Wilcox Chris Hyde

Jess Codrington Megan O'Sullivan Emily Gallagher Chris Williams Chloe Sullivan Anne Ward Juliette Olah

TOPFIVEONFIVE Top Book TOP WALKS IN AUSTRALIA - FIND A WALK FOR EVERY WEEKEND By Melanie Ball Australia is mecca for bushwalkers – there are walks crossing every sort of landscape, from rocky deserts to the tropical coast, craggy mountains to verdant rainforest, as well as some shaped by colourful human history.

Only while walking do you have the time to grasp the drama of volcanic sculpture, or the genealogy of a gnarled Antarctic beech tree whose ancestors spread their branches before the supercontinent Gondwana split up.

Only at pedestrian pace will you spot that weird mushroom thrusting through leaf litter or that banded black cockatoo feather dropped by a squawking passer-by.

Experienced travel writer Melanie Ball has hiked every track in this book for walkers of all levels of experience.

Included are some of Australia’s most famous walks, including the Larapinta Trail and Overland Track, plus some undiscovered gems. RRP $36.99 Publishing September 2016.

Photo of the Month Coal ship gliding into Newcastle harbour at sunrise. This image is as familiar to Novocastrians as the deep bellow of the ship’s horn. According to Newcastle Ports Authority, the blast of the horn is a safety procedure that helps ensure the safety of everyone using the harbour (like stand-up paddle boarders!) and different sounds mean different things. For instance, a vessel will sound one prolonged blast if it is nearing a bend or an area where it’s view is obstructed. For more information, visit www.portofnewcastle.com.au. Image by Daniel Mitchell.

Top Gig AN EVENING WITH HENRY ROLLINS Wests City If ever there was such a thought provoking, ambitious and entertaining all spoken affair, this will be it!

Henry Rollins is a man of many hats - actor (Sons of Anarchy, He Never Died, Gutterdämmerung), singer (Rollins Band, Black Flag), voice over artist, author (over 25 books), photographer (Occupants) columnist (LA Weekly, Rolling Stone Australia), TV host (National Geographic, History Channel, IFC), radio DJ (KCRW), activist and of course a spoken word performer.

“Thought-provoking, entertaining and exhilarating, the man is a force to be reckoned with.” - The Daily Telegraph.

Through all these various experiences, you can imagine what kind of evening you will be in for! See Henry at Wests City on September 10th.

Top Movie THE SECRET LIFE OF PETS Comedy stars Louis C.K, Eric Stonestreet and Kevin Hart make their animated feature-film debuts in The Secret Life of Pets, a comedy about the lives our pets lead when we leave the house each day.

Max (Louis C.K.) is a spoilt terrier who enjoys his comfortable and luxurious life in Manhattan, until his owner adopts Duke, a giant and unruly canine. After constant bickering and jealousy consume the two, one event leads to another and they find themselves having to work together to find their way back home.

You can catch The Secret Life of Pets in cinemas from September 8th.

Top Drop TAMBURLAINE ORGANIC WINES 2016 Petite Fleur Rosé Although not a large winery in world terms, Tamburlaine Organic Wines is Australia’s largest producer of organic wines – producing award-winning wines from their Hunter Valley and Orange vineyards that are true to the terroir of the region.

Tamburlaine is a pioneer of sustainable viticulture, with no synthetic chemical inputs used in the growing of the grapes which made this wine.

TASTING This Petite Fleur Rosé is European in style, with soft pink hues with rose petal and musk aromas. The wine has juicy, fresh strawberry and Turkish delight flavours with subtle oak complexity.

Not simply a light red pretending to be a Rosé!

CELLARING Drink now, or cellar for up to 5 years.

Top Spot NEWCASTLE ART GALLERY Newcastle Art Gallery boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Australian art of any regional gallery in the country. It’s a great spot to visit – and visit regularly!

Take the kids along this school holidays to attend one of the galleries great holiday workshops. This month kids can jump into the mesmerising world of optical art and explore vibrant paper pattern designs.

Throughout September drop into the Gallery to see the annual The Kilgour Prize Exhibition – an annual art prize for figurative and portrait painting that awards $50K for the most outstanding work of art. A People’s Choice of $5K is also awarded to the painting voted most popular by the general public, and the entire exhibition of finalists is always a highlight of the Galleries exhibition calendar.

For more information, visit www.nag.org.au

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

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INTOUCH FEATURE COVER ROSS STORYNOBLE ANDRÉ RIEU Performance in Vienna 2007.

The irresistible and charismatic

ANDRÉ RIEU WORDS: MICHELLE MEEHAN

He’s the maestro of the masses, the Dutch King of the Waltz – one of the biggest selling male touring artists in the world today. And after a three-year wait Australian audiences will once again be dancing in the aisles next month when international superstar André Rieu returns to the country for a run of eight shows.

All but one of the concerts will take part in capital cities across Australia – with Newcastle the only regional centre to be blessed with a visit from the virtuoso violinist.

Rieu will bring his Arena Tour to Newcastle Entertainment Centre on Friday, October 21 and while he likes to keep the specifics of the show under wraps, audiences will no doubt be treated to an arrangement of some of the most beautiful waltzes, classics from the world of opera, film and folk music, as well as iconic Australian songs.

Those who have seen Rieu perform in the past know his shows are spectacular to behold – a joyous and exhilarating combination of the violinist’s own passion and verve mixed with the aural and visual extravaganza that is his Johann Strauss Orchestra, with 50-plus members decked out in dapper dinner suits and dresses fit for a princess.

His concerts are unlike any other classical performance you have seen, with audience members regularly jumping to their feet to dance in the aisles, while the music often has devoted Australian fans laughing, weeping, clapping, dancing and embracing in response to its beauty.

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It is this experience that has made Rieu a musical phenomenon like no other – the world’s most successful violinist with 40 million CD and DVD sales under his prized Stradivarius violin.

Along with his Johann Strauss Orchestra, Rieu has created a global revival in waltz music and is one of the biggest solo male touring artists in the world.

Each year he performs in front of around 600,000 fans, outselling major rock artists including Coldplay, AC/DC and Bruce Springsteen.

In 1987 Rieu took the first step on a journey that would change the course of his life, recruiting young, enthusiastic musicians to form the Johann Strauss Orchestra. Their first public performance was on January 1, 1988, however it was not until the release of their breakthrough album From Holland With Love in 1994 that Rieu really started to make his mark in the Netherlands, and in later years, throughout the world.

Rieu is a prolific producer of albums, with around 50 to his name, with his most recent release late last year, Roman Holiday (Universal Music), featuring much-loved favourites He has been performing with his orchestra since 1988 and first such as Gabriel’s Oboe, Mascagni’s famous intermezzo from visited Australia in 2008 - but his love affair with music dates Cavalleria Rusticana, Mattinata, Felicità, Arrivederci Roma right back to his childhood in Maastricht on the southern tip of and excerpts from Verdi’s La Traviata and Puccini’s Madama the Netherlands, where his father was a professional conductor. Butterfly as well as his 2015 Maastricht DVD Wonderful World (Universal Music).

He grew up surrounded by the melodic world of classical music symphonies, chamber music and opera – and took up the violin He seemingly spends most of his life on the road and first at the age of five. graced our shores in 2008 as part of his grand World Stadium Tour ‘A Romantic Vienna Night’, accompanied by more than He continued his musical training at Conservatoire in Liège, 500 people and a set featuring a life-size replica of the imperial Maastricht and Brussels and formed his first orchestra – the Schönbrunn Palace - the world’s biggest mobile stage.

Maastricht Salon Orchestra - in 1978.

Rieu and his Johann Strauss Orchestra blew Australian They embarked on some tours around the Netherlands, audiences away, fuelling a fan frenzy that saw him break CD Germany and the United States, while at the same time and DVD sale records to become the most successful artist Rieu also performed as a violinist in the Limburg Symphony in the country in 2007 and 2008, with more than two million Orchestra. copies sold by the end of 2008.

INTOUCH FEATURE COVER ROSS STORYNOBLE ANDRÉ RIEU Almost 300,000 people came to their concerts in Australia, with his Melbourne performance attended by more than 38,000, broadcast live on Australian and Dutch television. It was the biggest concert of his career.

Almost a decade on and Australian audiences are still in love with Rieu, with tickets to his shows selling fast.

In the lead-up to what will certainly be an experience to remember at Newcastle Entertainment Centre next month, Rieu generously took time out to give intouch Magazine an insight into his wondrously melodic world.

Hi André, thanks for taking the time to answer these questions for intouch Magazine. You’re heading back to Australia soon – when were you last in the country and what are your memories of Australia?

I have wonderful memories of Australia! Of the people, nature, the cities. I think Australians are a lot like the Dutch, very down to earth, very relaxed, open and easy going. I love that.

It is not for nothing that I gave the biggest concert in my career in Australia, in Melbourne in front of 38,000 people. I will never ever forget that. And let me tell you, this year, we’ve had people from 78 nations coming to our open air concerts in Maastricht, Netherlands. Among them, so many people from Australia, and I am sure, also from Newcastle! Which was fantastic.

So now I am very happy to come back to you. I just wished Australia wouldn’t be soooooo far away. You almost need a week for just travelling with the crew and orchestra, but everyone is so excited to be back! The orchestra, the soloists, the crew and me.

You will perform eight concerts while you are here including one show in Newcastle, where intouch Magazine is based. Do you like to take your show out of the major cities to places like Newcastle to extend your reach to regional audiences?

Absolutely. I’d like to make my concerts as accessible to everyone as possible. But I need a venue that fits my production, that’s usually the most challenging part. When I get to a new city or country, I always ask, ‘Do you have an arena?’

Culturally, Australia is very different to Europe, where you spend the majority of your time. When you travel around the world, do you notice differences between the way each audience listens and responds to your music?

Fortunately the kind of music that we play works in every country and for every nation. I usually play the same program for one year all over the world and then I change it, and we go on tour again.

But the audience reactions are of course a bit different. In South America the people sing along immediately and love to dance, in Japan, they sit very quietly in their seats, and when the balloons come down, they go totally crazy during the encores.

between you and your audiences. Do you do this on purpose or is it just your natural reaction to the music?

back home and play for your grandmother. Now they regret that they have not been part of the team, haha.

It’s a bit of both. When I was a student, I played in my father’s classic symphony orchestra. My father was a conductor. I always thought ‘Why does everyone have to be dressed in black? All these beautiful girls – they look like nuns!’ The dresses for the women in my orchestra are very lavish, it takes weeks to produce them and the ladies love them. They feel like princesses.

What I love about classical music? I’d say I don’t love only classical music, but also a lot of other styles.

I love to give people something for the eye, and I truly believe that the impression that the wonderful music makes on people is made stronger if you put beauty and romance in your setting.

Communication and emotions are the secret. Look at rock concerts, the music, the light, the images, the connection with the audience. That’s entertainment. Why not take some of this for classical music as well?

You’ve said previously that you wanted to change the way people listen to classical music – to open it up to a wider audience and make it accessible to everyone. Clearly your worldwide success suggests you have achieved this – but do you feel you have made this dream come true?

I hope so. My dream to travel the world with my own orchestra, to choose my own repertoire and have the freedom to play where, when and what I want has come true, and I am so grateful for that. My concerts are for everyone, the cleaning lady, the professor, the families, the old and young. What unites them is that for three hours they will forget all the sh** in life and just have a good time.

People tell me that after my concerts they need two weeks to come down. This makes me so happy.

What is it that you love about classical music – and what has been the biggest barrier to overcome in terms of getting more people to enjoy it?

The most significant barriers have been managers, agents, record people – a lot of them, in the beginning, told me, go

It depends on the melody. If a melody touches my heart, I know it will touch yours, too. For example, The Rose by Bette Midler or Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen, What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong. Brilliant melodies – so beautiful and romantic. It is not classical music, but that does not matter. In music, there are no borders. Being open is important.

Going back to the very beginning, you took up the violin when you were five. What are your earliest memories of learning to play?

I had my first violin lessons at the age of five. I immediately fell in love with my teacher, an 18-year-old blonde. That marked me! I practiced a lot. She is still alive I recently visited her for 80th birthday. She is still beautiful!

At home, we were surrounded by music. My father was a symphonic conductor. All of my brothers and sisters - we were six children - played several instruments and all of us became professional musicians.

Do you play any other instruments and if not, are there others you always wanted to learn?

As a child, I also had a piano, oboe, and flute lessons. But it was the violin that took my heart. To me, the sound of a violin is the most beautiful and romantic sound in the world.

My Stradivarius is from 1732, one of the last instruments he built. It has a very warm, passionate sound, it reminds me a bit of the opera singer Maria Callas. And of course, I’d love to learn the didgeridoo!

Since you were a child you have been surrounded by classical music – but do you enjoy listening to other types of music and if so who is your favourite musician?

I rarely listen to music in my private time as I am surrounded so much by it. I like ABBA, Andrew Lloyd Webber and I think Bruce Springsteen is great.

And finally, once this current tour is over, what comes next for André Rieu?

I would love to play on the moon!

Tickets for the André Rieu Arena Tour at Newcastle Entertainment Centre on October 21st are available through Ticketek.

World Stadium Tour 2007.

In Australia and Europe the audience knows all the pieces, it is part of their tradition and upbringing. That is so wonderful as it creates again a very special bond between everyone on stage and the audience. Australian audiences have always opened their hearts for us and we for them. Right from the beginning.

What can Newcastle audience members expect from your new arena show?

An entirely new program including the audience’s favourite melodies. It will be an evening full of romance, music, laughter, dancing, with my orchestra and many international soloists.

We will play the most romantic waltzes, melodies from films, musicals, operas, and of course some of Australia’s most famous melodies.

But I am not telling you the repertoire in detail. It will be a surprise! I never tell people in advance – all my audience knows is that they will have a good time.

There is something exuberant and almost theatrical about the way you perform that seems to form an amazing connection

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Images by Pegi Lea

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WORDS: MICHELLE MEEHAN There will be fabulous fashions on the field and edge-of-your-seat excitement on the track when Newcastle’s premier thoroughbred racing carnival bursts out of the barriers at Broadmeadow this month.

Newcastle Jockey Club is gearing up to host the prestigious Hunter Jaguar Land Rover Spring Racing Carnival on September 16th and 17th, with two days of high-quality racing, fashion and entertainment on the cards.

He has been overseeing the completion of the $11 million redevelopment of the track, which began with the resurfacing of the inner Beaumont Track to allow it to be used for racing while the main racetrack is completely overhauled.

When completed the project, which is predominantly being funded by Racing NSW, will cement the club’s place as one of the premier racing surfaces in Australia.

It will be CEO Matt Benson’s first experience of Newcastle’s major racing carnival, which “The key focus in the early days of my includes the hotly contested Group 3 tenure was getting the new course proper Newcastle Gold Cup after the former South development implemented, and that is Australian Jockey Club chief took on the top now done and handed over to the club,” Mr. job at the Newcastle club in February this year.

Benson said.

He said after months of hard work he was looking forward to seeing it all come together, “The focus now is to let it consolidate, let the root growth settle so that when we race on it particularly with the club welcoming the next March it will be as good, if not better, than event’s new naming rights sponsors - Hunter any other track in Australia.

Jaguar Land Rover - into the fold this year.

“It is a huge shot in the arm for racing in this “Newcastle Spring Racing Carnival is area, it is the largest investment Racing undoubtedly a highlight of the social and NSW have made anywhere, which gives you racing calendar in Newcastle,” Mr. Benson an indication of how serious they are about said. getting the facilities right here.”

“It attracts the glorious spectacle of horse The Newcastle Jockey Club has been focusing racing at its best, with unmissable action on on getting the facilities right off the track as the track and fabulous style and glamour well, ensuring a visit to the Broadmeadow alongside it, making it a perfect fit for luxury venue is just as enjoyable for racegoers as it is vehicle brands. for the industry participants.

“It’s exciting, it’s what we work towards all year A refurbishment of the Newmarket Bar has and there’s a real buzz in the air.” recently been completed, featuring a fullAnd there’s certainly been plenty of work length blonde timber bar with exposed brick, taking place at the Broadmeadow venue on industrial-style furniture and a colour palette of and off the track in the six months since Mr. granite, neutral and cream.

Benson arrived.

The perfect place to meet friends before, during and after the races with full TAB facilities, TV screens, hot food, beer, wine and spirits on offer, it features three walls of windows to ensure racegoers can keep up with what’s happening outside as well.

The Hunter Jaguar Land Rover Spring Racing Carnival will culminate on Saturday, September 17 with Ladies Day, featuring prize money of $176,000 across eight races including the Broadmeadow Mile, the Hurricane Stakes and the Provincial Cup.

The club has extended the opening hours of the Newmarket Bar, allowing punters to stay on for an additional hour after the last But while Friday focuses on serious racing, Saturday is set for a race at Newcastle has been run and won. day of fabulous fun with a range of entertainment and activities taking place including the popular Westfield Kotara Fashions on The Broadmeadow Bar is also undergoing a transformation by the Field, which attracted around 100 entries last year. well-known and respected firm EJE Architecture.

Entrants will vie to win Best Dressed Female, Best Dressed It will re-open with a fresh new contemporary design in time for Male, Best Dressed Local Entrant and Best in Millinery and with the hordes of racegoers who are expected to descend on the more than $10,000 in prizes including an overseas holiday to track for the exciting first day of the Hunter Jaguar Land Rover be won, it offers the highest regional prize money for Fashions Spring Racing Carnival on September 16. on the Field outside of Flemington.

Traditionally known as Cup Day, it is the highlight of the club’s Among those keen to see the fabulous outfits on show at racing calendar with its three Group 3 races - the Australian Ladies Day will be Westfield Kotara stylist Kate Kohler, who will Bloodstock Cameron Handicap, the Yarraman Park Tibbie help judge the Fashions of the Field for the first time this year.

Stakes and the historic XXXX Gold Newcastle Cup - offering a generous $650,000 in prize money and attracting some of the “It’s an exciting time of year, all the new spring fashion is about best horses in the country. to land at Westfield Kotara and I’m excited to see what both the men and the women bring to the runway at the Newcastle While it is too early to know just which trainers will nominate Jockey Club,” she said. their horses for the races, Mr. Benson said the event was recognised as a valuable lead-up to the Sydney and Melbourne “Fashions on the Field is a beautiful part of the Spring Carnival, spring carnivals and had a history of producing winners that everybody is excited because how often do you get to dress have gone on to greater success. up and feel utterly glamorous and it creates a real buzz at the track.

Most notably in recent years, this has included the Lloyd Williams-owned Green Moon, which took out the Newcastle Cup “We’ll be looking for a real standout when we’re judging – you in 2011 before going on to win the race that stops a nation, the can either follow a trend or wear your own style, adding a twist Melbourne Cup, the following year. and some flair to the fashion … we’re sure to see someone’s whose personality really comes out through their outfit.”

Nominations for all races on both days close at 11 am on Monday, September 12 and Mr. Benson said he expected Cup While it’s hard to predict just what people will be wearing, Kate Day would once again attract representatives from the major said she expected to see quite feminine looks among the ladies, stables in Sydney and possibly Melbourne as well, while the with pastels “always an excellent choice.” country’s top jockeys will also be in town looking to secure a And while a beautiful outfit is a must, topping it off with the ride on the hottest prospects. right hat or fascinator – a real statement piece - is crucial to creating a look that will really wow the judges.

But it won’t just be the fashions adding a touch of excitement and glamour trackside on Ladies Day. Actress, singer and television host Natalie Bassingthwaighte will perform for racegoers late in the afternoon to cap off what is sure to be spectacular Spring Racing Carnival.

Tickets for Newcastle Jockey Club’s 2016 Hunter Jaguar Land Rover Spring Racing Carnival are on sale now, with hospitality packages starting at $80 per person.

General entry to the track on the Friday will be $25 (prepurchased by September 15) or $30 on the day, while entry on Saturday will set you back $20 for pre-purchased tickets, or $25 at the gate.

For more information or to book your tickets online visit www.njc.com.au. Book your LADIES DAY tickets online and use the code “Intouch” at checkout to receive a $20 voucher to be used on the day! Be quick – offer ends 10th September 2016.

ALL-NEW F-PACE

ABOVE ALL, IT’S A JAGUAR.

Welcome to Jaguar as you’ve never seen it before. Now you can enjoy the dramatic drive and beauty Jaguar is renowned for, with added practicality.

Inspired by F-TYPE, its powerful, muscular looks give the All-New F-PACE a head-turning road presence. And it delivers the connected steering feel and sharp, responsive handling of a sports car too, thanks to its aluminium double wishbone front and Integral Link rear suspension.

A master of sporting performance and everyday practicality, F-PACE raises the game.

Now available.^

^Consult your dealer for terms and costs of Service Plans. Finance provided by Jaguar Financial Services which is a registered trading name of Jaguar Land Rover Australia Pty Ltd. The registered trademarks and trading name referred to above are operated and used under licence by St. George Bank – A Division of Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

THE ART OF PERFORMANCE www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 9

What’s on?

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Circle Award-winning children’s author and artist Jeannie Baker's latest, much anticipated picture book Circle is on show through an exhibition at Newcastle Museum until Oct 31.

►COMING

UP SEP

THURSDAY 1ST A Concord of Strangers Newcastle Conservatorium FRIDAY 2ND Twelve Foot Ninja The Cambridge Hotel Gypsy Tramp & The Thief Wickham Park Hotel SATURDAY 3RD Dustin Tebbutt Elsewhere The Rooftop Hayden Johns The Rooftop Kotara Rates + Nhostic + Tycotic The Cambridge Hotel SUNDAY 4TH The Italian Tenors Wests New Lambton C-Side Harmony Concert Wests City TUESDAY 6TH Suicide Silence The Cambridge Hotel WEDNESDAY 7TH Youth Rockin the Black Dog Lizottes THURSDAY 8TH L-Fresh The Lion The Small Ballroom From the Jam The Cambridge Hotel FRIDAY 9TH Frenzal Rhomb The Cambridge Hotel Milestones Wickham Park Hotel Dane Fitzsimmons Lambton Park Hotel SATURDAY 10TH Gooch Palms The Cambridge Hotel Bobby C The Rooftop Kotara The Years Wickham Park Hotel SUNDAY 11TH Taxiride + The Badloves Wests New Lambton WEDNESDAY 14TH The Bootleg Beatles Wests New Lambton Darude Argyle House FRIDAY 16TH Kilter The Small Ballroom Harts The Cambridge Hotel The Cassettes Wickham Park Hotel Dai Pritchard Lambton Park Hotel SATURDAY 17TH Northeast Party House The Small Ballroom Patrick James 48 Watt Street Gareth Hudson The Rooftop Kotara THURSDAY 22ND Plutonic Lab The Cambridge Hotel Caravana Sun The Small Ballroom Musicaviva International Concert City Hall FRIDAY 23RD Vera Blue 48 Watt Street ACO 2016 Intimate Beethoven City Hall SATURDAY 24TH Wollombi Music Festival Wollombi Anyerin + Matt Gaudry The Rooftop Kotara Alex Lahey Sydney Junction Hotel SUNDAY 25TH Mark Wells + Kevin Borich Wickham Park Hotel THURSDAY 29TH Isaiah Mitchell + Seedy Jeezus The Small Ballroom FRIDAY 30TH The Sonics + Totally Unicorn + Pagen The Cambridge Hotel COG Wests City Dashville Skyline Dashville, Lower Belford

10 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Wicked The untold story of the witches of Oz continues at Civic Theatre until September 3.

The Spring Festival of Flowers Hunter Valley Gardens, Pokolbin, 1—30 September.

Newcastle Art Gallery Exhibition: Marion Borgelt Memory & Symbol until October 23. Exhibition: Kilgour Prize 2016 until November 13.

Lake Macquarie City Art Gallery Exhibition: Your Collection: Presence and Absence + Your Collection: Off the Wall both until September 25.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

greatest plays brought to life by this outstanding Australian theatre company! 8—9 September, Civic Theatre.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 9

Home Lifestyle & Outdoor Living Show Featuring master classes, DIY demos, industry experts, a variety of exhibitors and entertainment. Fri 9 12pm 7pm, Sat 10 + Sun 11 10am - 4pm. Adults $12, concession $10 at the gate, Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Open Morning at Hunter Valley Grammar School 9am - 11.30am, Norfolk Street, Ashtonfield. www.hvgs.nsw.edu.au

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

An Evening with Henry Rollins Wests City.

Handmade in the Hunter Markets Kevin Sobels Wines, Pokolbin. Also on September 17 + 24.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

Newcastle Jockey Club’s Charity Golf Day Members, Non-Members, Male and Female Golfers are invited to participate in Newcastle Jockey Club’s Charity Golf Day for the National Jockeys' Trust at Merewether Golf Club. Registrations close Sep 2, www.njc.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

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14

Elsewhere The Rooftop Lifting live music to a whole new level. Tickets at www.goelsewhere.com.au The Bottle-O Lambton Beer Festival 2016 Beer tastings from over 30 brewers, food, live entertainment, lucky door prizes and more! 1–5pm.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 6

From Surviving to Thriving In this powerful 2-hour event, Dr Libby gets to the heart of women’s wellness and explores everything you need to know about how your body and mind work – from a nutritional, biochemical and emotional perspective. City Hall.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Youth Rockin the Black Dog A music competition designed to raise awareness of youth mental health issues among young people in the Hunter and surrounding regions held at Lizottes, Lambton. www.himh.org.au

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 8

Elton John and Tim Rice's AIDA Based on the opera

by Giuseppe Verdi, Aida is a timeless love story, featuring an award-winning pop/rock score from the seasoned pop duo who brought musical life to Disney’s The Lion King. 8­—10 September, Playhouse Theatre.

Othello by Bell Shakespeare In 2016 the world will commemorate 400 years since the death of William Shakespeare. This anniversary year see one of his

China Week Celebrating elements of traditional and contemporary Chinese culture in Hamilton. Night noodle market, outdoor cinema, film festival, street festival + business forum. 17—25 September. www.newcastlechinaweek.com

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

Budfest at Briar In its third year now, Budfest at Briar festival is on once again at Briar Ridge Vineyard, Mount View. The event is all about celebrating budburst and enjoying the simple pleasures in wine and food! www.briarridgevineyard.com.au

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22

Shaolin Warriors The legendary Shaolin Warriors returns to Australia, punching, kicking and tumbling in a spectacular, dynamic production. Civic Theatre.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23

Tough Dog King of the Hunter ULTRA4 Witness ULTRA4 Racing at the home of Tuff Truck and the Catch all the 4 wheel-drive endurance racing action in Milbrodale, Hunter Valley. 23—25 September.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 24

Rodney Rude Wests City.

Free Yoga with Whole-Living Start your day with yoga by the lake at 8am and then enjoy what the Living Smart Festival has to offer!

Dave Hughes Sweet Belmont 16s.

Watsons Demolition Newcastle City SuperMoto Fast and furious SuperMoto action at Newcastle Foreshore on a specially constructed Dirt and Tar track. Free event, Sep 3 + 4, 10am - 4pm.

HTRF Glow Walk Get your Glow on and walk a gentle 5km from Nobby's Surf Club to support and raise funds for transplant patients and the Hunter Transplant Research Foundation. Registrations from 3pm, 5.30pm walk.

Hunter Business Development Forum Find out what it takes to break into the big world of business from a small idea, with CEO of Throat Scope Jennifer Holland (who was featured on Shark Tank) as guest speaker.

More info at www.hunterbusinesschamber.com.au

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

The Nutcracker Based on the book “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” written by E. T. A Hoffman and presented by Russian Ballet. Civic Theatre, Newcastle.

Hunter Valley Moon Festival 2016 15 - 18 September, see page 19 for more details.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 16 Hunter Jaguar Land Rover Spring Racing Cup Day Broadmeadow Racecourse.

2016 Friends of the University Student Art Prize An art prize for students of the UoN, with two art prizes of $1000 each up for grabs. Winners announced at University Art Gallery at 5pm.

The Umbilical Brothers Speedmouse It's legendary and it's live! Civic Theatre, Newcastle.

Hunter Rescue Ball Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 Hunter Jaguar Land Rover Spring Racing Ladies Day Broadmeadow Racecourse.

Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Bringing the crème de la crème to Civic Theatre, Newcastle.

Living Smart Festival A fun day out in Lake Mac to explore how you can adopt sustainable practices in your everyday life. This years festival includes coffee, farmers markets, market stalls, eco fashion, demonstrations, backyard inspiration, health and wellbeing and more! Speers Point Park, 8am - 2pm.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

Spring Cruiz-in See a huge range of vehicles on display including Vintage, Veteran, Classic, Modern, Hot Rods, Kombis, Bikes, Trucks and a range of entertainment at Hunter Valley Gardens! 7am - 3pm.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 29

This is Not Art Festival (TiNA) Longstanding co-presenters National Young Writers’ Festival (NYWF), Crack Theatre Festival and Critical Animals will this year be joined by Special Guests Hobotechno, a Newcastle based experimental arts collective. Blurring the boundaries between writing, performance, visual arts and critical thinking, TiNA 2016 offers an array of workshops, panels, installations, performances and special events. Sep 29 to Oct 2. www.thisisnotart.org

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

What’s on?

Coming Up IN OCTOBER

WIN //

Live & Cookin’

FRIDAY 7TH Peter Powers - Naughty Naughty Hypno Show The world’s funniest hypnotist comes to Wests City! www.westsnewcastle.com.au Light the Night 2016 The Leukaemia Foundation's annual fundraising walk to help more Australians beat blood cancer by improving survival rates and quality of life. Join this inspiring lantern walk through the Foreshore! www.lightthenight.org.au

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

SEPTEMBER

SATURDAY 8TH Opera In the Vineyards Roche Estate, Pokolbin.

VINCE JONES

SUNDAY 9TH

SUNDAY 16TH The Color Run Lake Macquarie www.thecolorrun.com.au

FRIDAY 21ST Andre Rieu at Newcastle Entertainment Centre.

Bernard Fanning Civic Dusk Tour Civic Theatre.

SUNDAY 23RD The Fashion Circle - Pre-Loved Ladies Fashion Market Event Unique items from the Vintage Era, Retro Fashion and today’s trends. Wests Mayfield, $5 entry.

Fernleigh 15 2016 www.runnsw.com.au/events

SATURDAY 29TH The Last ever Jazz in the Vines After 24 years in the Hunter, this years festival will go out with a bang! Tyrrell's Vineyard, Pokolbin.

PH 4960 1397 • 284 Maitland Road, Mayfield

Mayfield Hotel TUESDAY Badge Draw + Poker WEDNESDAY Open Mic Night THURSDAY Comedy Night OR Live Music FRIDAY Live Music SATURDAY WPT POKER LEAGUE - 1 sitting from 6.30pm to 11pm

SUNDAY Live Music

Friday 2

ALEX LLOYD

Acoustica Tour Liberation Music has announced the return of the label's Acoustic series with their first long player for 2016: Acoustica 12 stunning, intimate recordings by ARIA winner and multiplatinum singer/songwriter Alex Lloyd. Lloyd will return to Lizottes on Saturday the 15th of October to share the album with local fans.

Acoustica presents Lloyd as you've never heard him before: intimate stripped back and breathing new life into much-loved classics plus a brand new surprise. "It was certainly something I'd thought of doing before," Lloyd says of the recording, which is the singer's seventh full-length release.

With four ARIAs already under his belt, Lloyd was intrigued with the concept of revisiting his older material. Expect to hear radio hits Amazing, Coming Home, Beautiful, Black The Sun and more, his extensive catalogue getting a brand new lease of life.

GAMBIRRA MOB Saturday 3

WHISPERING JACK Sunday 4

YOUTH ROCKIN’ THE BLACK DOG Wednesday 7 (Every Wednesday)

FELIX RIEBL (THE CAT EMPIRE) Thursday 8

BEST OF AUSTRALIAN BURLESQUE Friday 9

PEARL - THE JANIS JOPLIN STORY Saturday 10

HISTORY OF THE ROLLING STONES Friday 16

DARYL BRAITHWAITE Sunday 18

THE MARVIN GAYE EXPERIENCE

"This project came along at a perfect time for me," says Lloyd down the line from Sydney, where he and his family returned to back in 2012, after living abroad in London's Queens Park for several years.

Saturday 24

"Doing these recordings really helped create a spark in me. It's been great to re-address these songs, and I'm really happy with how it's turned out,” he said.

HARRY MANX (CAN)

BENNETT BOWTELL + URQUHART Sunday 25

Tuesday 27

For tickets visit www.newcastle.lizottes.com.au

OCTOBER

WIN!

Sportsfest 5k + 10k Fun Run Hosted by Hunter Academy of Sport at Speers Point Park, Warners Bay. Register now! www.hunteracademy.org.au/sportsfest

YOUTH ROCKIN THE BLACK DOG FINAL Wednesday 5

You and your bestie can win your way to Alex Lloyd on October 15th with this month’s Lizottes Special Giveaway! Visit www.intouchmagazine.com.au and head to the GIVEAWAYS page at to enter.

Competition closes September 30th - Good Luck!

KILLER QUEEN Saturday 8

MONTAIGNE Sunday 9

MORE SHOWS added daily.

Bistro Open Tuesday to SATURDAY

WIN!

•TAB •SPORTSBAR

FREE ENTRY!

3 Semi finals each Friday night from September 9th, 9pm at The Beach Hotel, Frederick Street, Merewether.

Come along and show your support!

Contact: heartmusicnewcastle@gmail.com

LIVE SHOWS starting from

$65 (including dinner)

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

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

BEER

WINE MUSIC FOOD

Visit hopeestate.com.au to find out what's on.

Open 7 Days 10am-5pm - 2213 Broke Road Pokolbin, NSW 2320 - (02) 4993 3555

TICKETMASTER.COM.AU 136 100 | HOPEESTATE.COM.AU

ACCOMMODATION & HOSPITALITY PACKAGES CALL HOPE ESTATE'S TICKETLINE ON 1800 777 444 12 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

ACCOMMODATION & HOSPITALITY PACKAGES CALL HOPE ESTATE'S TICKETLINE ON 1800 777 444

L-R Jak Housden (Musical Director) Brydon Stace, George Ellis (conductor), Steve Balbi and Jeff Duff.

Let’s Dance!

Inaugural Rock Symphony in the Vines Get ready for this year’s most spectacular evening under the stars with some of Australia’s most notable musicians when Hope Estate presents the inaugural concert series launch of Rock Symphony in the Vines with the music of the legendary David Bowie on Saturday 15th October.

SEP 3 | OCT 1 | NOV 5

theolivetreemarket.com.au 9am - 3pm

SPRING MARKET

art | design | music | food charge with the Australian Symphony Orchestra. George is one of today’s most talented Australian conductors, composers and orchestrators. His extensive academic training in conducting, composition and arranging, in Australia and overseas, and a wide range of experience has enabled him to develop the unique talent essential for sensitively traversing a wide variety of musical genres.

Says George of this upcoming show “The Thin White Duke’s music lends itself beautifully to the array of colours of the orchestra. Rich textures and harmonies weave in and out of his songs, making them perfect for decorating and embellishing with lush symphonic sounds.”

Coming off the back of the award winning and highly successful Ziggy – Songs of David Bowie, which sold out shows across Hope Estate is the ideal setting to host the the country and to rave reviews, it’s only Rock Symphony in the Vines concert series. fitting that Jeff Duff, Steve Balbi and Brydon “Having hosted Sting and the Sydney Symphony Stace reunite for this very special show. All Orchestra on our grounds three years ago, we three artists are some of Australia’s most see it’s a natural progression to present David captivating performers and are preparing to take audiences on another musical journey, as Bowie’s music with the Australian Symphony Orchestra – it’s the perfect fit for the Hunter they continue to explore the creative genius of Bowie’s songs. Expect to hear all of Bowie’s region. The combination of rock and symphony is a match made in heaven - in the vines and greatest hits including Changes, Let’s Dance, under the stars,” said owner Michael Hope.

Space Oddity, Life on Mars, Heroes, Starman, Suffragette City, Golden Year’s and much Don’t miss this stunning evening, as it pays more. tribute to one of the world’s greatest and most influential artists of all times, in full symphonic Adding another exciting element to Rock sound. For more information and tickets visit Symphony in the Vines, is world renowned www.hopeestate.com.au conductor, George Ellis, as he leads the

CIVIC PARK NEWCASTLE

theolivetreemarket.com.au

SPRING into the Olive Tree Markets The Olive Tree Market will celebrate the arrival of Spring with a Spring Seasonal Market on September 3rd. It will also be the perfect place to pick up great gifts for the design conscious Dad for Father's Day. Olive Tree features over 130 independent art and design stalls in the beautiful grounds of Civic Park. Expect to buy unique and creative items by local makers from Newcastle and treasured favourites from around NSW. You will be hard pressed finding creative gifts for Father’s Day anywhere else and with the arrival of Spring why not treat yourself to some gorgeous flowers or colourful home interiors.

Every single market is meticulously curated, featuring fresh talent and debut stalls at every event. With dedicated food and beverage stalls, live music, coffee carts, and food trucks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Don’t miss stalls including: • Handmade home interiors featuring cement wall clocks and wooden homewares by Poppet & Button • Beautiful flowers from Two Wild Hands • Spring inspired botanical and delicate animal drawings by Carmen Hui

• Skin Care and beard care for the modernised gentleman from The Mister Brand • Surf inspired lifestyle clothing by Agos Clothing • Handcrafted leather accessories for the perfect Father’s Day gift by Aussie Bush Leather • Locally produced Hunter foods for any occasion by Hunter Heritage Gourmet Foods • Hand poured spring inspired soy candles by Luxx • Plants and handcrafted planters by Dogswood Inc • Succulent cast jewellery from House of Bec • Handcrafted recycled timber sunglasses by Livingstonia • Locally roasted coffee by Silverskin Coffee Roasters • Australian natural and organic lifestyle products from Archon • Surface art home wares and men & women’s fashion by Publisher Textiles Stop in for breakfast or brunch and savour delicious locally made gourmet artisan produce. Enjoy live music from talented local artists including Anna Milat and Adam Miller.

Bring your family, friends and visitors to the city and discover one of the region's most popular cultural events. For further information visit www.theolivetreemarket.com.au

BRIAN CADD

HENRY WAGONS & THE ONLY CHILDREN THE BROTHERS COMATOSE (USA)

~ ~

THE WILSON PICKERS MELODY POOL RAISED BY EAGLES THE EASTERN (NZ)

+ PLENTY MORE

A festival celebrating the birth of Americana music and culture. Come throwback to the 70’s with a weekend full of live music, kick back camping, songwriter collaborations, kids entertainment, classic cars and bikes and the best American inspired cuisine this side of Texas.

WWW.DASHVILLE.COM.AU www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 13

“I’ve been working on it for about three years, the best thing about it was getting such great musicians from Melbourne and New Orleans to play on it as well,” she said.

“It’s my first solo album and the theme lyrically is sort of a coming of age scenario.

“The goal of this album was to move a little bit away from the jazz influence (of the Shadow Katz) and be more present in the songwriting element... become more independent as a musician and I’ve written and produced pretty much all of the songs.

“I haven’t been playing many shows since I got back from New Orleans, but I’m going to be playing songs from my album at Lizotte’s.

A MUSICAL JOURNEY FOR THE HUNTER’S ZOE K WORDS: MICHELLE MEEHAN From the banks of the Hunter River to the bayous of New Orleans, Zoe K has travelled a long way in her journey as a musician. Born in Newcastle but raised in the Hunter Valley, Zoe grew up immersed in the old school sounds of legends like Etta James, Ella Mae Morse and Ruth Brown.

With a solid set of pipes and plenty of promise as a performer with clear soul, jazz and rhythm and blues influences, she rose to prominence after taking out the 1223 ABC Female Vocalist of the Year award in 2009. Since then she has built a strong following at home and on tour with her band Zoe K and the Shadow Katz.

Recently, the decision to move to Melbourne and embark on a solo career has seen Zoe journey well beyond the bounds of the Hunter Region in pursuit of her passion.

A holiday to the United States to visit the birthplaces of some of her musical influences during 2012 saw Zoe fall in love with the sights and sounds of New Orleans and return home to Melbourne full of inspiration as she began to craft her first solo album.

She started recording it in 2015 at The Aviary in Melbourne, but it wasn’t until a chance meeting with Mike Bass from Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue at a Bluesfest sideshow that the opportunity to finish her album in New Orleans became a reality.

Zoe returned to the banks of the Mississippi River in 2015 to lay down some tracks at The Parlor Recording Studio, joined by a stellar rhythm section comprising Mike Bass (Trombone

“It’s so scary – you’re about to put something out that you have spent so much time and money on and you really want people to get behind it. It is a level of terrifying because it’s become so much a part of my life for the last three years.”

Shorty) and Terrence Houston (George Porter and the Funky Meters), as well as New York City guitarist Raja Kassis (Antibalas).

Zoe shouldn’t have any worries about getting a receptive audience at Lizotte’s though, having drummed up plenty of support with her previous shows at the iconic Lambton music venue.

She also made the most of the opportunity by collaborating “I haven’t played there since 2013 but I love playing in with another New Orleans local, Nika Revader - an extraordinary Newcastle and I’m not saying that to be cheesy, I really love vocalist who Zoe met previously when both were invited to coming back to play there. Newcastle is such a chilled lifestyle perform alongside renowned New Orleans trumpeter Kermit and every time I play I get a good turnout," she said.

Ruffins.

“A venue like Lizotte’s is good for artists wanting to put their Nika appears towards the end of Wedding Ring (Get it Off) - the original music out there – I started with a couple of support first single released from Zoe’s upcoming and as yet untitled gigs there and then had my own nights and returned a few album – as well as on a second song called Walls. times for Live and Local nights as well.

Zoe spent six months in New Orleans finishing the album as well as playing a host of shows at the Howlin Wolf and the Rockwood Music Hall in New York.

“Lizotte’s has a great atmosphere, people can just chill and (owner) Brian (Lizotte) always makes you feel very welcome. He loves his music and you can feel it in the venue, there’s real heart there.”

“It was definitely a great experience. The studio itself is a supreme studio, the quality of it was mind-blowing, as was the Aside from the music itself, Newcastle audiences will reap the engineering and to work with the musicians I did... There was a benefits of Zoe’s sojourn overseas in another way, with both moment there where I had to pinch myself, I couldn’t believe I’d trips to the US proving a test of her prowess as a performer. made it happen. It wasn’t easy, I had to save up to get there, I “When I was in the US the first time I got to sing with Kermit was working two jobs, 60 to 80 hours a week," she said.

Ruffins – he’s a pretty big player in that scene – and when I “There’s a lot of sacrifices that happen when you want to invest went back in 2015 to record I also performed a lot as well. in a project, and people forget that. They think the music “Performing in another country brings another element to your industry is so glamorous, but there was a lot of waitressing and performance, it made me become a better performer because a lot of dog walking on the way. But when I was in the studio I you’re playing in front of crowds that don’t know you so you was like ‘I can’t believe this is happening.” really have to step it up. And the level of professionalism of The album is still in the process of being mastered in musicians in places like New York is incredible, it really makes Melbourne by Lachlan Carrick (Gotye, Jaala, Mojo Juju) before you step your game up.” it is due for release in February 2017, but Zoe is keen to get Zoe K will take to the stage at Lizotte’s on September 23rd out on the road and preview some of the tracks in front of a live accompanied by a number of local Newcastle musicians as well audience. as her Melbourne-based guitarist Will Gisjbers, who co-wrote She will return to her roots when she previews the album with a one of the songs and is also a former Hunter local. For more show at Lizotte’s Newcastle on Friday, September 23rd and will information or to secure your tickets visit also showcase her new songs at the Wollombi Music Festival www.newcastle.lizottes.com.au the following day.

5K & 10K FUN RUN REGISTER NOW

www.hunteracademy.org.au/sportsfest OCTOBER 9 • SPEERS POINT PARK 14 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

supporting

hosted by

which took just two-and-a-half hours to sell out when tickets were released.

WHAT'S ON //

A third show has been added on November 7th to cater for the demand by Novocastrians to catch rock’s original working class man, who has been bringing down the house with his unmistakable gravelly vocals and passionate on-stage performances since the 1970's.

The Scottish-born singer-songwriter burst onto the Australian rock’n’roll scene when he was just 17 as the front-man for Adelaide-based band Cold Chisel.

While the band’s fame was far from instant, the success they went on to achieve hit such heights that they etched themselves deeply into Australian rock folklore, with 15 Top 40 albums – nine of which made the Top 10 – and a reputation for their live shows that was second to none.

The band experienced chart success during the 70s and 80s and won a swag of music industry awards before deciding to split in 1983, devastating fans and leaving a musical legacy that included classic pub rock anthems such as Khe Sanh, Cheap Wine, Flame Trees and Bow River.

Family Reunion for JIMMY BARNES at Lizotte’s With a back catalogue that spans more than four decades, it’s hard to predict what songs would make the cut in a Jimmy Barnes “Hits and Rarities” set list. But you can be sure the legendary Aussie rocker will cook up a night of hot tunes and tasty food when he rolls into Lizotte’s Newcastle this month.

On the back of a successful six-show tour across Australia in August promoting his latest album, Soul Searchin’, Barnes is getting back to basics with two up close and personal performances at Lizotte’s on September 12th and 13th.

While the iconic Lambton venue always creates the perfect atmosphere for an intimate experience between the artist and the audience, Barnes’ shows at Lizotte’s almost feel like a family reunion, not the least because of the close personal connection between owner Brian Lizotte and the ARIA Hall of Famer (Lizotte’s brother Mark – aka Diesel – is Barnes’ brotherin-law).

Barnes has been a regular at all of Lizotte’s venues over the years and will no doubt have a hand, along with his wife Jane, in creating the menu on offer at his shows this month. It is a gesture made by the restaurateur to all his regular performers, no doubt stemming from Lizotte’s early days as a highly lauded caterer to the stars of the music industry.

Of course, music fans will be far more interested to see what Barnes serves up on stage during his Hits and Rarities shows,

COMING UP AT CARDIFF RSL

meat raffles Get $10 worth of tickets FREE when you spend $10. MUST BE A MEMBER

Wednesday: Tickets 6pm - Drawn at 7pm Thursday: Tickets 5.30pm - Drawn at 6.30pm Friday: Tickets 6pm - Drawn at 7pm Sunday: Tickets 5.30pm - Drawn at 6.30pm

To this day their farewell tour, The Last Stand, holds the record for the highest-grossing concert series by an Australian band.

But the transformation into a solo artist certainly proved a recipe for success for Barnes, who in the past three decades has charted 16 solo albums including 11 #1’s, earning him the title of the Australian artist with the most hit albums.

He has been inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame twice – with Cold Chisel and as a solo artist – and with the release of his latest album Soul Searchin’, Barnes even surpassed the Beatles by clocking up his 15th #1 career album.

Soul Searchin’ itself represents the end of one particular journey for Barnes, as the album is the fourth and final instalment in his popular Soul Series. It follows on from Soul Deep (1991), Soul Deeper (2000) and The Rhythm and the Blues (2009), which earned more than 12 ARIA Platinum Sales Awards between them.

The albums explored a different side of the hard-rocking, hard-living former front-man, who went back to his roots on an artistic pilgrimage into the music and songs that inspired him to become a singer in the first place.

The first album in the series, Soul Deep, indeed proved that Barnes had found the mark by putting his unmistakable stamp on classic soul hits, quickly becoming at that time the biggest selling album of his career, with sales over the 800,000 mark.

His latest offering, Soul Searchin’, once again showcases muchloved soul classics including Hard Working Woman, The Dark End of the Street, Mustang Sally and In the Midnight Hour, as well as some of the more obscure soul songs Barnes considers to be “diamonds in the rough.”

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Just which of these will Barnes belt out when he takes to the stage at Lizotte’s is anyone’s guess, but it’s sure to be another performance to remember from one of Australia’s biggest and best music legends.

Standing Up On BEAUMONT ST Michael Hing is a comedian who has performed sold out shows at the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Sydney Comedy Festival, Brisbane Comedy Festival, as well as two very disappointing seasons at The Adelaide Fringe. He has guest hosted Drive and Breakfast on triple j, as

well as SBS's The Feed, and has worked on the ABC show Good Game where he was a presenter for 2 years.

His stand up comedy deals with issues of race and racism in Australia, and he recently filmed his debut comedy special at The Comedy Store. His parents do not approve of any of this.

You can catch Michael in the flesh when he drops into Newcastle to MC our China Week Street Festival on Sunday, September 25th.

! ondays M m p INK From 7 ND DR A CASH WON! CLUB O BE T S R E VOUCH

Cardiff RSL 45 Macquarie Road, Cardiff NSW 2285 PO Box 61, Cardiff NSW 2285 www.cardiffrsl.com.au PH: 02 4954 0766 / F: 02 4956 6627 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 15

16 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

to Stringer's roots; telling the familiar story of the simple soul through folk and rock and roll, layered with bold electric guitars and rich background vocals.

All the Bridges

Liz Stringer was playing piano before she could talk. The dye was cast young, and some argue that she still communicates better with music than with conversation. She grew up in Melbourne, the youngest of three kids. Her Dad was a music teacher, her Mum a literature and history teacher. The house reverberated with music of some kind constantly. There were instruments and books on every surface. And the backyard was littered with Aussie rules footies, cricket bats and tennis racquets, ball sports and art. It was a good way to grow up.

LAUNCHING AT LIZOTTE’S

Fast forward to 2016 and Liz has garnered a reputation as being one of Australia's most respected and critically acclaimed songwriters and performers. She’s toured Australia perpetually for over 10 years, played every major music festival and is revered by her peers as being a passionate advocate of independent music and extensive regional touring.

Melbourne's Liz Stringer is launching her stunning new full-length album, All The Bridges, with a full band at Lizottes, Newcastle on Thursday 15th September. With acclaimed producer/engineer Adam Selzer at the helm (The Decemberists, Jolie Holland, Fleet Foxes, M Ward), All The Bridges was recorded over 8 days in the USA.

She has become a firm favourite among punters across Australia for her generous and engaging stage demeanour and her skill as a storyteller. As Mick Thomas puts it, "Her performance is as intense as it is personable, as profane as it is sacred."

The result is a vibrant and assured album, playing tribute to the new West Coast and Americana sound while staying true

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

What's happening at

Spring has arrived and with it, new season fashion at Charlestown Square. Did you know there are over 100 fashion, accessories, jewellery and beauty stores at The Hunter’s largest shopping and entertainment destination? Home to the only H&M, Myer, Cotton On flagship store, Forever New, and Review, you’re sure to find something you can’t resist with loads of new colours, new styles and new must have’s arriving weekly. Myer now stocks the popular Veronika Maine range for women, along with French Connection, Seed, David Lawrence and Sportscraft each offering fashionable styles and terrific quality.

Mecca Maxima, the ultimate beauty destination is now open exclusively at Charlestown Square!

Experience the one stop beauty authority with the hottest brands and exceptional service, located on Level 2 near Myer. Also now open nearby is the glamorous new Swarovski store, full of its world famous crystal cut creations.

Time for a movie with your family during the school holidays? You can enjoy 4 hours free parking at Reading Cinemas Charlestown – it’s easy, just get your parking ticket validated at the cinema.

Or take advantage of our exclusive amazing value Entertainment Passes – packaged together to provide hours of fun for all ages including a movie at Reading Cinemas, a game of bowling or laser tag at Strike, playtime at Timezone and fabulous food treats. On sale at the Customer Service Desk from just $35 for the Super Pass or $37 for Kids Passes, our unique Entertainment Passes are available for use until December 2016.

2015 Dashville images by Kell Stoner www.littlestory.com.au

An Impressive Array of Artists Heading to Dashville Australia’s very own cosmic country weekender returns to the Hunter Valley this October long weekend (30th September to 2nd October 2016). Dashville Skyline launched in October last year, drawing a large crowd of music lovers to the pristine private Belford property affectionately known as “Dashville.”

Another impressive array of artists are heading to the venue this year, each under the Americana umbrella, a timeless, influential genre that incorporates alt-country, folk, bluegrass, psychedelia and folk-rock.

Dashville Skyline is a throwback feast, promoter Matt Johnston says. A celebration of the golden era of Americana music from the mid-'60s and '70s and today's nostalgic culture that surrounds it.

Artists and music lovers will come together in a celebration of the music and great songs that spawned from this influential period that has evolved and inspired so many. Dashville

Skyline’s musical line-up for 2016 is headed by Australian legend Brian Cadd, whose songbook is sewn into the fabric of our nation’s culture.

From his work on the soundtrack of iconic surf film Morning of the Earth to his work with Axiom and numerous solo hits, Cadd brings a uniquely Australian bent to the broad Americana genre.

The songwriter confirmed on his Facebook page in the lead up to the festival that he is planning a special set.

"Now this is going to be a great gig," Cadd said. "The band and I are going to add a bit of an Americana twist to my performance there on the Saturday night."

Johnston was especially chuffed to bring Cadd to Dashville for this exceptional performance.

"Brian Cadd is an absolute living legend," Johnston said. "For me, I think he represents a huge part of what this festival is about - supreme songwriting. It's a testament to the festival and the vibe it creates that we are allowed to be graced by such extraordinary artists."

The rest of Skyline’s line-up is a who’s who of current luminaries, including Henry Wagons, The Brothers Comatose (from San Francisco), Jordie Lane, The Wilson Pickers, Melody Pool, William Crighton, New Zealand’s The Eastern, Leah Flanagan, Jess Riberio, Spookyland, and many more.

And now, there’s even more time to enjoy all that Charlestown Square has to offer with shops open until 5pm on Sundays. The South Piazza cafes and restaurants plus Readings Cinemas, Strike Bowl and Timezone trade later every evening for your enjoyment.

Enjoy Charlestown Square during September!

Cheers,

Therese,

Marketing Team

Head to www.dashville.com.au for more information and tickets. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 17

The Hunter Valley’s first Asian Cultural Celebration!

HUNTER VALLEY

The first annual Hunter Valley Moon Festival will be a colourful four-day celebration of the rich cultural traditions of Asia with performances, Asian cuisine, lion dances and most importantly, Moon Cakes matched with Hunter Valley wines!

The theme for this year’s event is “Seven Stars & the Moon”, with seven “stars” of the Hunter Valley including Hope Estate, Peterson House, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, Drayton’s Family Wines, Hunter Valley Zoo, King Horse and Vineyard Hill Resort offering festival-goers a rich and culturally immersive experience.

TICKETS MOON PALACE - ONLY $10!

Includes unlimited entry into the festival at the “Moon Palace” at Hope Estate, performances and fair.

FULL FESTIVAL PACKAGE

SEPTEMBER 15-18 Hope Estate, 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin Crowne Plaza, 430 Wine Country Drive, Lovedale

Hunter Valley Moon Festival

Hunter

Adults $88 – Students, Concession & Children $70 – Family Pass (2 Adults,2 Children) $308.

Includes “Moon Palace” admission tickets, one lunch ticket, one Hunter Valley Zoo admission ticket, one game, gift and souvenir pack, welcome drink and a coupon booklet (total value more than $200).

FREE entry on the first day of the festival for community, school and VIP groups. Register on our website for your FREE admission ticket.

Tickets available to purchase from

www.huntershows.com

WHAT'S ON //

A CELEBRATION OF ASIAN CULTURE In the Hunter Valley WORDS: MICHELLE MEEHAN The Hunter Valley wine region will uncork the sights and sounds of the Orient this month as part of a celebration of one of Asia’s most significant harvest festivals.

Presented by Hunter Shows, the inaugural Hunter Valley Moon Festival will run from September 15-18 featuring everything from the wonder and excitement of Australia’s largest ever lantern festival to the uniquely tantalising tastes of Chinese moon cakes matched with Hunter Valley wines.

The event is based on the traditional harvest festival also known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, which is celebrated by ethnic Chinese and Vietnamese people on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese Han and Vietnamese calendars, within 15 days of the autumnal equinox.

Listed as “intangible cultural heritage” by mainland China in 2006 and as a public holiday in 2008, the festival is also considered the second-most important holiday tradition after Têt in the Vietnamese culture.

It is a time for family and reunions; for thanksgiving, prayer and worshipping of the full moon, which is said to be at its brightest at this time of the year and is a symbol of harmony and unity.

And what better place to celebrate with your friends and family than in the beautiful Hunter vineyards, renowned for their ability to put on truly memorable outdoor events.

Set around the theme of Seven Stars and the Moon, the fourday Hunter Valley Moon Festival is expected to attract a record number of visitors to the region as it celebrates the rich and diverse cultural traditions of Asia.

It will be held across seven venues - Hope Estate, Peterson House, Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, Drayton's Family Wines, Hunter Valley Zoo, King Horse and Vineyard Hill Resort - with each of these “Stars” representing a different theme for visitors to explore and experience.

Hope Estate’s picturesque grasslands will also play host to the main attraction of the event - the magnificent Moon Palace -

where the festival will be spectacularly opened on Thursday, September 15.

Commencing at the Moon Palace on Saturday 17, the world’s first LED lion dance will dance its way between all Seven Stars destinations, spreading wealth, luck and health throughout the Hunter Valley before returning to the Moon Palace at the culmination of the festival.

Of course, there will be more than just bright lights to dazzle visitors to the Moon Palace, with an array of authentic Asian experiences on offer throughout the festival.

Sydney-based instructor Martin Grunseit, who has trained with Grandmaster Chen Xiaowang since 1991, will introduce visitors to the ancient martial art of tai chi on Friday, September 16, while the Australian Chinese Teo-Chew Association will put on a Kung Fu display on the 17th.

Friday’s activities will also include a cultural talk and multicultural performance group dance display, while the Hunter’s own renowned restaurateur Matt Dillow will host a cooking show on the three final days of the festival.

A packed schedule at the Moon Palace on Saturday will feature a range of traditional dancing groups, a Lion Dance Parade and a performance by the Cantonese Opera, while the final day of the festival will conclude with more dancing and a presentation of prizes.

The younger members of the family are also well catered for, with the Little Moon Princess Pageant for girls aged under 15 to be held at the Moon Palace on September 17, while those with a creative side can enter the lantern design competition for a chance to win some great prizes.

Visitors stuck for an idea for their lantern can take inspiration from those on show at the Moon Palace and throughout the Seven Stars venues, which together will form Australia’s largest display of Chinese lanterns.

The Hunter festival will certainly give visitors plenty of opportunities to appreciate the spectacular beauty of the full moon, with Vineyard Hill Resort’s magnificent AEcoSphere – a transparent bubble-shaped tent that has to be seen to be believed – offering the perfect venue to gaze at the moon and stars.

You can also opt to whet your whistle while indulging in the astronomical pursuit, with a lakeside wine tasting experience under the stars at King Horse.

But, as with any event in the Hunter’s wine region, the festival is not just about the sights and sounds of Asia – it’s also about savouring the flavours as well!

Drop into Drayton’s Family Wines for a taste of their speciallycreated Moon wine and mouth-watering mooncakes, which have traditionally played a significant role in the Chinese Moon Festival and are now considered symbols of a family reunion.

You can also join the parade to Peterson House for lunch to enjoy the bubbles of their limited edition Moon sparkling or savour the sweetness of their Moon chocolate and Moon dessert.

Relax in style and comfort while raising a glass of Moon beer at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley or sample an authentic taste of Asia at Vineyard Hill as it launches three new signature dishes direct from its Hong Kong Michelin Star restaurant.

TICKETING INFORMATION A range of ticket options are available for the festival, starting from as little as $10 per person for admission to both the Moon Palace and the performance hall at Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, with unlimited access to performances and cultural events, lantern demonstrations and market stalls.

There will also be inflatable games at Vineyard Hill Resort, while those looking to get in touch with their wild side can head over to Hunter Valley Zoo to experience a sheep shearing show, have their photo taken with some of its four-legged inhabitants and take part in the venue’s first night guided tour.

A festival ticket will set you back $88 for adults and $70 for children/concession and includes entry to Hunter Valley Zoo for the guided night tour option, souvenir gift pack, unlimited access to the Moon Palace, lunch at your choice of one of several vineyard venues, Moon wine tasting, a heritage winery visit at Drayton’s Family Wines, a night winery walk at King Horse, wine theatre show at Hunter Valley Resort, drink and games vouchers, plus a coupon booklet with a total value of more than $200.

As the name would suggest, one of the traditional things to do at any moon festival is to simply sit back and take in the biggest celestial orb in our night sky, with ancient beliefs suggesting the moon can help send love, best wishes, and greetings to family members far away.

Family packages cost $308 and will allow two adults and two children to indulge in the full festival experience.

Visit www.huntershows.com for more information about the Hunter Valley Moon Festival and to purchase your tickets. www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 19

A new Greatest Hits compilation, also released in 1997, reached number 10 on the album charts, with the band continuing to thrill crowds with their timeless sounds as they tour around the world.

But Hot Chocolate’s journey into the hearts and dance moves of music lovers began more than 20 years earlier in 1969 with, of all things, a reggae-inspired version of the John Lennon classic Give Peace a Chance.

The band, which had formed in Brixton, London in 1968, had been tinkering with the hit song for a while until singersongwriter Errol Brown was told he could not change any of its lyrics without the permission of Lennon himself.

A demo sent to the Beatles’ record label was given a tick of approval and released by the company, which was also responsible for giving the band their first name – The Hot Chocolate Band.

Later shortened to just Hot Chocolate, the band’s first album (Love is Life) reached #6 on the charts in 1970 and set them on a course to stardom that would include more than 30 hit songs and legions of fans worldwide.

Hot Chocolate

DISCO MANIA with HOT CHOCOLATE & THE REAL THING!

The British bands are embarking on a 10-date Disco Mania tour of Australia from October 12-29, shimmying into Newcastle to deliver a double shot of soul on Wednesday, October 19.

Drink in the silky smooth sounds of two of the biggest acts of the seventies when Hot Chocolate and The Real Thing take to the stage at Wests New Lambton next month.

Hot Chocolate’s popularity, in particular, experienced a real revival in the late 1990s when their iconic song You Sexy Thing shot back into the charts and straight to #1 after being released on the 1997 movie soundtrack for The Full Monty.

While the platform shoes and bell bottoms of the era may have gone out of fashion long ago, Hot Chocolate and The Real Thing’s songs remain on-trend and hugely popular amongst music lovers the world over, more than four decades after the bands were formed.

Their hometown followers were particularly taken by the soul singers, with Hot Chocolate becoming the only UK band to have a hit in the British music charts every year for 15 consecutive years.

You Sexy Thing was arguably their biggest song, making the top 10 on the charts in three different decades, while other wellknown hits included Everyone’s A Winner and So You Win Again.

Movie buffs would also be well aware of their sound, with Hot Chocolate songs featuring in a number of soundtracks aside from The Full Monty, including Boogie Nights, Legally Blonde and Bicentennial Man. The band’s original lead singer and co-founder Errol Brown left Hot Chocolate in 1986 to spend more time with his family. But rather than marking the end of the road for Hot Chocolate, ►

Shop longer on Sundays EXTENDED SUNDAY HOURS 10 AM - 5 PM ONLY AT CHARLESTOWN SQUARE

20 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

A UK #1 in 1976, it found its way onto a number of music charts around the world and catapulted The Real Thing to success, with their follow-up singles Can’t Get By Without You, You’ll Never Know What You’re Missing and Can You Feel The Force all proving popular, particularly in the UK.

Hot Chocolate began touring again in 1992 and haven’t looked back since, only pausing briefly in 2010 when current lead singer Kennie Simon replaced Greg Bannis on vocals.

Don’t miss your chance to experience these two enduring legends of the seventies when they roll into Newcastle on October 19. Tickets for the show are available via www.westsnewcastle.com.au ■

Simon has been credited for creating what may be the band’s best sound ever. However, he will pay tribute to those who have gone before him when he takes the stage in Newcastle next month, with Hot Chocolate’s tour honouring the memory of their original lead vocalist following Brown’s death in May last year.

Newcastle audiences will also be treated to the hits and melodies at fellow UK soul/rock group The Real Thing.

Hailing from Liverpool, the former covers band broke through with their own original work in the 1970s, including international hit single You To Me Are Everything.

Pop Opera Phenomenon...

THE ITALIAN TENORS

WIN!

it merely pressed pause on their journey. The remaining band members Patrick Olive, Harvey Hinsley and Tony Connor decided to strike up the beat once again eight years later after recruiting a new singer, Greg Bannis, and keyboard players Andy Smith and Steve Ansell.

Thanks to Estellar PR & Wests New Lambton we have 4 (yes 4!) double passes to give away to 4 lucky readers to boogie the night away at this fabulous show. To win, simply visit the Giveaways Page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au. Entries close September 30th, 2016. Good luck!

Direct from Italy, The Italian Tenors are three of Europe’s most successful operatic Tenors that formed in 2012, signed to Universal Records and released their successful album in 2014 Viva la Vita.

They are now considered a worldwide pop-opera phenomenon and will be performing for one special night only on Sunday, September 4th at Wests New Lambton.

SAT 22 OCT

The three handsome Italian opera singers Mirko Provini, Sabino Gaita and Evans Tonon do an unbelievable balancing act between classical arias and popular pop hits.

The Australian tour promises all the Italian charm and vocal power of their recently sold out European tour, together with their band that includes live strings the evening promises to be an incredible musical montage of vocal passion and entertainment excellence.

See The Italian Tenors at Wests New Lambton on Sunday 4th September. Tickets are available from the club, phone 49351 200 or visit www.westsnewcastle.com.au

Taxiride by photographer Ian Ritter

Go, Creepin’ Up Slowly, How I Got This Way, Oh Yeah and an ARIA Award.

Now in 2016 the original line-up is back together. The amazing harmonies, the guitars, the hit songs and the unique sound that was and still is Taxiride are all there in a live show that takes you on a journey to a time where music and songs had meaning and emotion.

SAT 19 NOV

Also appearing on the night are The Badloves. After releasing just two studio albums before taking some time out, their debut album Get On Board spent a massive 69 weeks in the charts, peaked at number 5 and went double platinum; delivering 5 hit singles in Lost, Memphis, I Remember, The Weight (w Jimmy Barnes), Memphis and Green Limousine.

Cutting their teeth on the streets of Melbourne’s music scene in the late 90’s was the best apprenticeship for Taxiride’s four local musicians; Dan Hall, Tim Watson, Tim Wild and Jason Singh.

The enormous success of Taxiride is well documented. Very few bands can lay claim to having had the impact the four members had in Australia and internationally. Double platinum number 1 albums, 7 top 40 hit singles including Get Set, Everywhere You

Taxiride and The Badloves play Wests New Lambton on Sunday 11th September. Tickets are available from the club phone 49351 200 or visit www.westsnewcastle.com.au

FRI 25 NOV

WIN

TAXIRIDE and The Badloves

After extensive tours in Australia and Europe, The Badloves released their second album in 1995, Holy Roadside to critical acclaim, further ARIA nominations, and another string of hit singles in Slave, Barefoot Bride, Living Thing and Caroline, establishing them as one of this country’s premier acts.

Thanks to Rock City and Wests New Lambton we have 2 double passes to give away to see Taxiride and The Badloves live on stage, but you’ll need to be quick – entries close 7th September. To enter, visit the GIVEAWAYS page at www.intouchmagazine.com.au. Good luck!

Phone 4935 1200 www.westsnewcastle.com.au www. .com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 21

with one of our Quartets, Blindside, coming in 4th in the Youth Competition,” Mulholland said.

The competitions start on Wednesday 28th of September with the Youth contests, followed by the Quartets on Thursday and Friday and the Choruses on Saturday. The current International Champion Quartet from the USA, Forefront, will also be attending and performing during the Convention as the Feature Quartet. Forefront was awarded the Gold Medal at the Nashville International Convention, which was held just a few weeks ago.

The Convention will be making use of several exceptional venues in the downtown Newcastle area including the magnificent City Hall Concert Hall as well as the state of the art Auditorium at the recently refurbished Wests City Club.

Newcastle to Host Over 500 Harmony Singers!

Newcastle has been chosen by Barbershop Harmony Australia (BHA) to host its 14th National Convention to be held in Newcastle from Wednesday 28th of September through to Sunday the 2nd of October. The Barbershop style of singing comprises four separate voice parts sung in close harmony à Cappella i.e. without any form of musical accompaniment.

The Barbershop Harmony movement in Australia was established in the early 90’s as a harmony organisation for male voices. Since then it has grown in popularity and today

22 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

has around 1,000 Members in 40 Choruses and over 80 Quartets nationwide. There is also a parallel organisation, Sweet Adelines, for female Barbershop singers. A new category has recently been added to all BHA Events to enable mixed harmony quartets and choruses to also compete.

“BHA holds National Conventions each year to allow Barbershoppers from all around the country to come together to compete against one another under very controlled conditions” commented BHA National President, Ian Mulholland. “We previously held our Conventions every two years, but they have become so popular we have now started to hold them every year. We hold separate competitions for quartets and choruses in youth, senior, open and mixed categories. It is highly competitive, and our top quartets and choruses are world standard” he added. “A number of Australian quartets and a Chorus competed recently in the International Convention in Nashville USA and did very well

The highlight of the Convention will be the Showcase of Champions concert to be held on the Saturday night featuring Forefront as well as all the winning quartets and choruses from the Convention. This event is always highly anticipated at BHA Conventions with the standard of singing always at a very high level and invariably producing many memorable performances.

All competitions are open to the public with tickets obtainable at the door of the various venues. Tickets for the Saturday night Showcase of Champions can be purchased in advance through the West’s Club website or from their club reception desks.

“We are expecting around 500 singers to compete this year, many of whom will bring their partners, friends and family,” said BHA VP for Events Keith Thornton. “They will all be socialising and enjoy all that Newcastle has to offer during the Convention.

So don’t be surprised to hear lots of singing around town, especially the Massed Sing planned for 12.30pm on the Friday at Wheeler Place,” Thornton added.

Full details of the Convention Program and the various venues can be found on the BHA Convention website at www.barbershopconvention.com.au and more information about Barbershop Harmony Australia can be found at www.barbershop.org.au

Honeymoon Trends Over the years, the honeymoon has become more about how unique and memorable an experience can be, instead of just relaxing and “getting away” from it all.

Affordability and scarcity of available time are the two major factors dominating the change in honeymoon travel trends.

Statistically, people are getting married later in life and therefore have the opportunity and flexibility to travel as a couple before being married. This has altered what couples are looking for in a honeymoon – from travel dates and preferred destinations to their desire to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Getting married later in life can often mean that the couple is financially well established in their life before setting down and have had the opportunity to save enough money to afford a lavish honeymoon.

Also with time out of the office being so scarce, a growing number of couples are spending less time getting to their honeymoon destination, visiting more than one destination on their honeymoon and even opting for trips closer to home that provide robust itineraries packed with adventure.

Another recent trend found among honeymooners is to go green. Many couples nowadays are interested in ecofriendly honeymoon destinations. For some, this may involve participating in ecology–related volunteer activity. For others, it means being aware of where they are staying, what they are eating and how they travel.

Getting to know you...

Take Some Time to Plan Your Honeymoon WORDS: QUENTIN VON ESSEN

As far as where the term "honeymoon" comes from, one theory is that the tradition dates back to 5th century when the newlywed couple would drink mead, a honey-based alcohol, after their first "moon" together as a married couple. The mead was a gift from guests or family members, and it was believed to aid conception!

Planning the Honeymoon With so much emphasis placed on planning for the wedding day, the task of planning the honeymoon often doesn't get the same attention to detail that it needs. First off, work out a suitable budget for your honeymoon. Unless it is gifted to you, the chances are you are going to be paying for your honeymoon yourself. On one hand, you may be wanting to plan the trip of a lifetime but on the other, you may want to keep your budget low so that you don’t start your married life in debt.

Start planning with a loose budget and then narrow your location choices based on what you would like to spend and can afford. To assist with the honeymoon, many couples are opting to set up a pre-wedding honeymoon fund instead of gifts from guests. It’s an easy option for guests when it comes to selecting that wedding gift and avoids the chances of you returning home broke!

For newlyweds, the honeymoon is often the best part of tying the knot. It’s the perfect way to celebrate your first days as a married couple and give yourselves the opportunity and time to really enjoy being with one another before you have to return to “the real world’’ with work, bills, a mortgage and in today’s world perhaps even children. It is, therefore, important that your honeymoon is a special one, full of wonderful memories and It’s also important to determine the timing and duration of one that also defines you as a couple. your honeymoon to ensure you don’t waste this opportunity of spending valuable time together. If you only have a few days Honeymoons today are very different from honeymoons of together, you won’t want to waste it spending hours on a longyesteryear. After all, nowadays most couples live together for a haul flight. few years before getting around to being married, so the idea of spending that time for the purpose of getting to know each Also consider what you both want to experience during your other is no longer relevant. honeymoon. What do you like to do when on holiday? Are you aiming to relax, take in cultural or historic sites, go hiking, try The history behind the honeymoon is perhaps not as romantic new adventures or participate in extreme sports? You’ll want to as you would think. It is believed the custom originated in choose a destination that offers activities and an itinerary that 19th century Britain, but it wasn't the romantic escape it is appeals to you both. today. Instead, it involved the newlyweds traveling on a ‘’bridal tour’’ for the purpose of visiting those family members and When travelling overseas, you will need an updated passport friends who were unable to attend the ceremony (so much and possibly a visa, and if travelling somewhere exotic, you may for time spent alone) and it wasn't until the late 1800s that also need to have vaccinations before you leave. Be sure you honeymoons started to look like they do today. know what is required of you for the trip.

The modern honeymoon has also seen another growing trend which has been mainly brought about by busy work schedules and limited budgets. Couples are now either waiting for some time after their wedding to save up for the best trip possible, or even taking a 'mini moon' - a short trip taken immediately after the wedding to a destination relatively nearby to experience a getaway without breaking the bank. The couple may then plan a bigger trip later on and at a more suitable time. Two honeymoons? Now that's a great idea!

A New Journey A honeymoon can be much more than a great holiday spent together. It’s a new chapter, and a symbol of the new life and journey the couple is embarking on before settling down to married life and all that comes with it.

If the couple hasn’t lived together before, the honeymoon is the ideal opportunity to get to know their partner without disruption or influence from parents, in-laws, and friends. This is a time to discover new places, sights, activities and each other.

Whatever you do and decide on, make your honeymoon one that you’ll remember for the time you spend together and the wonderful memories you make. Choose the perfect honeymoon location by finding a place that you will both love and that will fit your budget and then plan the right itinerary. It will be the perfect start to your married life.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 23

Creating Unique Jewellery for Your Special Day

Just as each individual is different, so is each ring. What never changes at Kadia is the attention to detail, the special and unique attributes that go into each and every design and the quality workmanship. Let the team at Kadia Jewellery turn your dreams into reality.

Whether it is reinventing Grandma’s ring or creating your own masterpiece.

If you want a piece that’s beautiful for a special occasion (or even just a special treat), Kadia Jewellery is well worth a visit.

Shop 10, Lake Village Arcade, Warners Bay NSW 2282 PH (02) 4947 4610 Shop 21a, 63 The Boulevarde, Toronto NSW 2283 PH (02) 4950 4449

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Always Unique, Always Style, Always Quality.

ADMIT ONE

Choosing the right engagement and wedding rings would have to be one of the most momentous decisions you will ever have to make. Capturing the enormity of the meaning in one ring involves so many decisions. At Kadia, they delight in rising to the challenge, often commenting that they have the best

Experienced designers, Kaylene at the Toronto store and Sally at Warners Bay can guide you through every step, creating along the way a unique ring that represents the love that two people share and the commitment to be made.

ONE

Kadia Jewellery stocks an extensive range of exclusive, hand-selected jewellery aiming to give you a unique and individual style for which Kadia Jewellery is known. Owners Kaylene, Sally and Nita are very proud of their reputation as a quality destination and work very hard to deliver superior service to match this quality.

job in the world because they play such an important role in so many happy, touching, special moments.

A D M IT

Established in 1987 at Wallsend, Kadia Jewellery moved to its current premises in Toronto 16 years ago. Three years ago, on the retirement of the original owners, the baton was handed over to three passionate, loyal employees and firm friends who proudly took on ownership with gusto, opening a second shop at Warners Bay a year later.

with Madeove L

Newcastle Flowers Saying it With

By Design FLOWERS Let our talented team of floral designers help make your dream of having the perfect wedding a reality.

No matter what style of flower or colour scheme you have in mind, we will design to compliment the theme of your wedding, and help create the most beautiful day of your life!

64 Orchardtown Road, New Lambton PH 4952 3888 E newcastleflowersbydesign@hotmail.com www.newcastleflowershop.com.au

Estate be greeted with a glass of famous Hunter Valley sparkling and mouth-watering canapés. From floral designers and dream cake creators to photographers, wedding venues, entertainers and everything in between, you are sure to find inspiration around every corner.

For further wedding ideas and tips why not take in a few workshops and seminars scheduled throughout the day? You’ll be dreaming of your walk down the aisle while watching the fashion parade showcasing stunning gowns and suits and fabulous accessories. Don’t forget to stop by the Pamper Pavilion for a complimentary mini beauty treatment and to indulge in some sweet treats at the candy bar. When its time for a break, sit back and relax on the grass with a picnic Planning a wedding in the Hunter Region? lunch and a bottle of famous Hunter Valley Hunter Valley Wedding Planner Magazine is wine, immerse yourself in stunning vineyards proud to announce the next Love in the Vines and rolling hills and be entertained by live Hunter Valley Wedding Festival on Sunday 30th April 2017 at Lindemans Estate, Pokolbin. musicians all day long!

See the Hunter Valley Wedding Planner Love in the Vines Wedding Festival runs Magazine come to life before your very eyes in from 10.30am to 4pm on Sunday 30th a carnival style atmosphere, among the vines, April 2017. Don’t forget to keep an eye out in the heart of Hunter Valley Wine Country. for local accommodation specials from our accommodation vendors and make it a Prepare to be entertained and inspired by an weekend away in the vineyards for you and amazing array of talented wedding suppliers your friends. For half price early bird tickets, and professionals who service the Hunter head to www.loveinthevines.com.au now!

Region. On arrival at the iconic Lindemans

Not Just Another Wedding Expo...

Did you know that peony’s mean happiness and prosperity, orange blossom is associated with purity, magnolia means love of nature and stephanotis signifies marital happiness?

The "language" of flowers has been around for centuries. During the Victorian era, for example, flowers were used to express emotions – creating an ultra-romantic language for lovers' correspondence in which flowers replaced words.

Bespoke Designs From Award-Winning Jewellers Williams the Jewellers is a family owned and managed manufacturing business at The Junction with 26 years in the industry.

A family of talented and caring craftsmen who strive for perfection in all they do, they specialise in a wide range of jewellery including manufacturing stylish quality jewellery to suit your style and budget. All manufacturing is carried out on the premises by their qualified team of jewellers.

They have won the Australian Bridal Industry Award 15 times and are members of the Jewellers Association of Australia. The ABIA awards are held in each state in Australia and are determined by past brides who have been through the process of selecting their bridal suppliers and have then rated the provider on their quality of product, service, value and staff.

Willams the Jewellers offer an exclusive range of handmade diamonds engagement rings, bride and groom wedding rings and bridal jewellery. They also carry a variety of

For many, flowers are one of the most important aspects of a wedding. They bring colour, life, and aroma to a wedding. They help make table settings more beautiful, and can transform a formerly dull space into a beautiful personality-filled one.

Newcastle Flowers By Design are the wedding flower experts and with many years of experience creating beautiful weddings, they will work with you to create custom wedding designs to suit all budgets. No matter what style of flower or colour scheme you have in mind, they will design to complement the theme of your wedding, and help create the most beautiful day of your life!

diamonds, precious stones and all metals including platinum and palladium.

A significant proportion of the jewellery created is made and designed in-house.

Should you wish to commission a bespoke piece of jewellery, the team are able to offer suggestions and ideas on style and suitability.

Bespoke engagement and wedding rings are particularly popular right now and years of design experience coupled with a significant design library are the catalysts that will set you on your way to creating a jewellery masterpiece that is uniquely yours.

Williams the Jewellers strive to maintain the highest standards, thrive on referrals and offer competitive prices for lasting handmade jewellery. When nothing but quality will do, dreams do come true at Williams the Jewellers.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 25

Everything Old is New Again…

The historic buildings that make up Newcastle Venues have been part of the city's fabric for a combined total of 416 years.

The oldest of the suite is Fort Scratchley built in 1821, followed by the railway workshops now home to Newcastle Museum built in 1882 and the baby of the family, Newcastle City Hall, which opened in 1929.

These iconic buildings provide the perfect backdrop for historymaking events. They are special spaces with personality and tradition that can be re-imagined for contemporary weddings of all sizes and styles.

Each venue provides their own unique features and experiences complemented by decoration services provided by Cupid's Corner Wedding and Event Hire and in-house catering services. From sweeping coastal views to soaring arches and rustic brickwork, there are plenty of photographic opportunities to capture the perfect day.

Newcastle City Hall With its simply stunning 800 seat Concert Hall and six other rooms to choose from, Newcastle City Hall has the capacity and experience to host grand weddings of more than 200 guests as well as intimate occasions.

As a heritage building, City Hall requires maintenance from time to time. Earlier this year the historic Clock Tower was reopened after much-needed repair to its sandstone façade. While construction works continue on the building exterior, the venue is still very much open for business. Once works are completed later next year, the Hall will look like new with its restored sandstone and refreshed interior.

With the backdrop of the magnificent Civic Park fountain and lovingly tended gardens, City Hall provides an ideal space for marriages made in heaven.

Fort Scratchley As the days get longer, and the weather warms up, the outdoor setting and panoramic views from Fort Scratchley make this a simply magic location for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Ceremonies can be conducted on the Fort Scratchley grounds looking out across the Nobbys headland to the horizon beyond.

The photographic opportunities are awe-inspiring. For intimate weddings, the Barracks provides a unique and atmospheric venue with unrivalled views. The light-filled Function Room with its alfresco verandah offers a contemporary space just perfect to celebrate your love.

Blue Star Catering is the exclusive and award-winning on-site caterer at Fort Scratchley and provides exceptional service combined with delicious menus and quality local wines.

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Newcastle Museum Stunning exposed brickwork and an eclectic mix of industrial and contemporary design make Newcastle Museum an exceptional and authentic venue in the heart of the city.

Newly appointed on-site caterers, the D'Vine Group, will blend culture with food and wine to provide a unique service experience that truly complements the Museum's ambience and style.

D’Vine have been providing catering and event management for weddings for many years. Their mission is to provide fresh and affordable food, using locally sourced products wherever possible complemented by friendly, professional service.

From the jaw-dropping Earth Ball to the soaring ceilings and natural acoustics of the Link Gallery, the Museum has truly unique spaces and is a spectacular alternative to traditional function centres and hotels to host your wedding.

Take a tour The dedicated and experienced staff at Newcastle Venues are happy to take you on a tour of all three venues so you can discover them for yourself.

To make a booking or for further information visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle-venues or ph 4974 2166.

Top image: A Wedding at the Museum Bottom image: Catering at Newcastle Museum by the D'Vine Group.

We have the perfect venue for you From Fort Scratchley’s stunning backdrop of Nobbys Beach to the soaring arches of the Museum’s Link Gallery and the grandeur of the Concert Hall at Newcastle City Hall, Newcastle Venues provide endless opportunity for the perfect wedding.

Small intimate weddings and large family occasions can easily be catered for with our fabulous range of room options, including the evocative Barracks, awe-inspiring Earthball Gallery and beautiful arched windowed Hunter Room.

Newcastle Venues have highly experienced on-site catering and decorator services with an intimate knowledge of our venues. Our Venue Services team will work with you every step of the way to help create a wedding of your dreams.

Our Venue Services team Our experienced and professional staff will work closely with you to ensure your day is memorable. Do not hesitate to contact us on (02) 4974 2166 for a tour of our rooms, to request a personalised quote or further information.

Booking your event Please contact our Venue Services team to discuss times, dates and any special requirements.

Phone (02) 4974 2166 Email newcastlevenues@ncc.nsw.gov.au www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au/newcastle-venues www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 27

Tamburlaine Real Weddings Stefanie & Nathan

BY EMILY MORTON – Tamburlaine Organic Wines

Stefanie and Nathan held their wedding on the private grounds of Tamburlaine Organic Wines, in Pokolbin. Classical and romantic, with a petal lined aisle, the couple exchanged vows under shading iron bark trees. Their reception followed, on-site at the Tamburlaine Lodge.

Date February 15th Guests 84 Theme/style We didn't have a particular style but loved

everything ‘Romantic’ looking. Like blue and rich purple hydrangeas for bouquets and soft sage green dresses for my bridesmaids. We had the reception room at The Lodge filled with votive tea light candles and tall vases of hydrangeas on each table, as well as scattered baby’s breath on the bridal table.

Location As soon as we saw photos of Tamburlaine we fell in

love with The Lodge as well as the grounds. During the day and into the evening it all looked beautiful.

Sit down or cocktail reception? We chose a sit-down dinner as we wanted a more formal event, we liked the idea of table service and for all our guests to be well fed and looked after.

Memorable moment A memorable moment for us

would be the fireworks on the balcony as we cut our cake (all organised by Tamburlaine.) It was a great surprise for our guests, and a moment for us to stop and enjoy the night.

Advice for other brides looking at a Wedding in the Vineyards Go to the venue when it is dressed up for an open day or for a wedding, as you get a great feel for how things will be on your day. Look at photographers photos of how well the venue looks in photographs and ask for options, like where photos can be taken - we didn't want to leave the grounds and had plenty of photos taken at Tamburlaine.

tamburlaine.com.au 28 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Tag your #TamburlaineWedding and follow us on Instagram @TamburlaineWeddings. For all Tamburlaine wedding bookings and enquiries please contact Lou or Crystal on 4998 4200.

Photography - Peaches on Sunday.

Images by Taryn Ruig

Weddings are unsurpassed at...

Awaba House

Positioned on the waterfront of picturesque Lake Macquarie, Awaba House is set amongst 15 acres of parkland which makes an ideal setting for your Ceremony.

Choosing the PERFECT Wedding Venue OK - so you have set the date, agreed on the budget, chosen your official wedding party, have an idea of the guest list and are ready to send out save the date cards… You are now ready to choose the venue and discuss packages and pricing.

Weddings of course are unsurpassed at Awaba House! Our function room is a glass conservatory with a silk lined ceiling to provide a marquee feel for your reception, a perfect venue for your dream Lake Macquarie Wedding.

When it comes to planning your big day, the wedding venue is usually the first major decision you need to make together.

We cater for groups of up to 80 for a sit down style menu and a cocktail style menu for larger numbers. The glass conservatory allows guests to enjoy the classic architecture of the house and magnificent views of the incomparable lake vista. If you’re looking for a breathtaking Lake Macquarie Wedding Venue, Awaba House offers exceptional views, service, and catering.

Choosing a wedding venue is far more than just locality and finding a spot with charm.

Instead, it's about meeting all the needs you have as a bride. Most importantly your wedding venue must suit your personality and the mood you are trying to create for your wedding, be it formal, alternative, relaxed or vintage. It’s about how you want to feel on the day. It also has to be the right size, price and it must complement the two of you.

1a First Street Booragul PH 0249 506366 E hopper@hunterlink.net.au

www.awabahouse.com.au Justin Worboys Photography

Fortunately, the choice of venues these days is incredibly diverse. And since you live in Newcastle or Lake Macquarie, you have your pick of numerous beautiful beaches, lake venues, historic sites, vineyards, breathtaking landmarks, and vistas. You will know when you have found 'the one' as you won’t be able to imagine spending your wedding day anywhere else.

by the Beach

Awaba House function room is a glass conservatory with a silk lined ceiling to provide a marquee feel for your reception and can cater for groups of up to 80 for a sit-down style menu and for larger numbers a cocktail style menu can be prepared.

Whatever your preference or desires, the Awaba professionals are there to assist you in making your dream wedding a reality.

Wedding on the Beach If a wedding by the beach with ocean views is more to your liking, then situated on Ocean Street and nestled between Merewether and Bar Beach sits Dixon Park Surf Life Saving Club. The Clubhouses upstairs event room provides uninterrupted views of the coastline and boasts a generous balcony just perfect for ceremonies and celebrating with family and friends. This unique location also provides an amazing backdrop for your memorable photos.

Dixon Park can seat up to 110 guests comfortably and around 200 for a stand-up function. When hired, the entire venue is yours for exclusive use which in turn provides a more personal setting. It is easily accessible, and the two large car parks offer plenty of parking for guests.

If you are looking for a venue that offers, intimacy, historic charm, parkland and sensational lake views, then Awaba House is that ideal wedding venue.

Waterfront Caterers is the preferred caterer and they offer a broad range of menu options for special events with all-inclusive packages starting at just $115 per person that include various dinner options of either canapés, buffet, or two courses, five hour venue hire, four hour beverage package, four and a half hour DJ, four-hour limousine hire, chair covers, linen tablecloths, wishing well and centrepieces.

As one of the oldest estates in the area, and superbly positioned on the waterfront of picturesque Lake Macquarie with 15 acres of parkland, Awaba House is the perfect venue for that perfect wedding.

While finding the right venue is partly about pleasing others, try to remember that it is ultimately your wedding and your special day and the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Wedding on the Lake

WEDDINGS

Your special day deserves a special place, and Awaba House is all that and more! Here you can have your ceremony in the sculpture park or under the magnificent Port Jackson Figs with uninterrupted lake views. You may even choose to arrive by boat at the deep water jetty access.

Intimate, Affordable... Spectacular!

Planning a wedding by the beach? Nestled between Merewether and Bar Beaches sits Dixon Park Surf Life Saving Club. With spectacular and uninterrupted views of our beautiful coastline, a generous balcony that's perfect for your ceremony and a wide range of menu options offered by Waterfront Catering, Dixon Park SLSC is the perfect venue for your special day.

Ocean Street, Merewether PH 0437 262 432 E functions.dpslsc@bigpond.com

www.dixonslsc.com www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 29

THE

GREEN HOUSE

eatery

bar

events

The Greenhouse is Port Stephens’ newest dining and events destination, offering a truly romantic venue, surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds, gardens & natural water courses.

Bringing the Outside in at our Newest Wedding Destination The Greenhouse is the region's newest dining and events destination located at Medowie, 25 minutes from Newcastle, 20 minutes from Nelson Bay and situated in the spectacular 135-hectare grounds of Pacific Dunes. It’s the perfect destination for dining, socialising and special events and is part of the stunning, brand new $3 million country club at Pacific Dunes, Port Stephens.

The Greenhouse hosts a variety of events, from weddings to corporate events and special functions – all with spectacular results!

Superbly positioned to overlook the natural bushland, waterways and golf course at Pacific Dunes, The Greenhouse offers a unique and flexible event space for all wedding parties.

The functions area can cater for the more intimate celebration right up to large events for up to 150 or so guests.

Huntingdale Place, Medowie NSW | (02) 4916 0500 events@thegreenhouseeatery.com.au www.greenhouseeatery.com.au

Offering a stunning view of the grounds, gardens and wetland scenery from the environmentally-sustainable, purpose-built venue, the venue boasts beautifully styled interiors including bentwood chairs, doublesided fireplace, panelled walls and high ceilings. The private event space has an adjoining furnished alfresco area, dedicated timber dance floor and built-in audiovisual equipment.

With a choice of the Ceremony Lawn or the Lake View Ceremony Venue for your ceremony, countless perfect backdrops for your photography, experienced staff and delicious menus incorporating fresh, seasonal elements

30 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

from the kitchen garden, The Greenhouse will be sure to make a lasting impression on you and your guests!

Versatile menus and packages provide you with the option to customise your perfect reception experience. With a number of highly recommended accommodation providers located close by and less than a 10-minute drive from Newcastle Airport, The Greenhouse is well suited for wedding parties with guests from out of town.

Dates are filling up fast for 2017, and if you are looking for a mid-week or winter wedding, The Greenhouse can offer you additional value to your perfect wedding at a venue that is beautiful all year round. For more information visit www.greenhouseeatery.com.au

Making Memories...

AT LAKE MACQUARIE YACHT CLUB

Ada St, Belmont PH 4945 0022 E functions@lmyc.com.au

www.lmyc.com.au

At Lake Macquarie Yacht Club their functions venue cater to a wide variety of events with three different function areas that are ideal for anything from engagement parties to weddings and anniversaries as well as numerous other social and corporate events.

The Bridge Deck Room is a private room providing 270° unsurpassed views over picturesque Lake Macquarie and just perfect for any intimate or private gathering.

Lending itself to the versatility of the auditorium and the serenity of the northwest deck area right alongside the water, the Bayview Area is a wonderful setting for a relaxed, casual function on the water.

Located on the northern side of the club with the alluring benefit of being “on the water” with captivating views across to the north side of Lake Macquarie, the Waterfront Marquee is perfect for any special occasion and especially weddings.

All catering at Lake Macquarie Yacht Club is done by the on-site restaurant Crusoe’s on the Lake.

Weddings @ The Retreat Unique wedding venue with the location you have always imagined Spring outdoor weddings • Cosy Winter indoor weddings 4302 Nelson Bay Road, Anna Bay NSW 2316 E. bookings@theretreatportstephens.com.au P. (02) 4982 1244

www.theretreatportstephens.com.au

The Retreat…

A Unique Wedding Venue Surrounded by natural bushland and backing onto the sand dunes of Port Stephens, The Retreat offers a truly unique wedding venue. The Retreat gives you a beautiful bush backdrop, a range of great locations for photos, beautiful function areas and accommodation for over 100 wedding guests. Relax and know that you can enjoy your entire special day at the one place. Better still, your guests can relax and make this a getaway break for the weekend or week.

The Retreat has an excellent catering team to cater for the whole event. Individual menus are designed to suit

your theme and/or budget with a broad range of catering possibilities. You will speak directly with the caterer to create the menu of your dreams.

NKD'S Photography

This tailored approach is adopted for every wedding with the dedicated staff providing a quote which is individual, recognising that everyone is looking for different things and has different visions of this special day.

Not only can you arrange a spectacular outdoor wedding in the grounds, but The Retreat is also an excellent indoor wedding venue with a function hall that can be transformed into the perfect function room for your wedding. This area is large enough to seat 100+ guests in an all-weather room which is central to all the accommodation and has a beautiful bush outlook.

Visit www.theretreatportstephens.com.au for more information, or contact the team on 4982 1244.

HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTISTRY

For something classic or out of the box, choose Dunn & Dusted - specialising in mobile bridal hair and makeup.

www.dunnanddustedartistry.com Call 0402 619 135 or visit info@dunnanddustedartistry.com www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 31

Fashion +Beauty...

BUMP IT UP

Endless Possibilities

3 Stylish Outfits for Pregnancy and Beyond

By Claire Edwards for #WestfieldKotara

By Juliette Olah for #WestfieldKotara

Your baby bump doesn't have to stop you feeling stylish. Rebecca Judd recently owned it, when she shared a picture of her pregnant belly in the striped dress from Country Road. It sold out in no time, but luckily the off-the-shoulder style is now back in stock.

Yes, you do want to be comfortable, but it’s possible to dress well and feel fantastic with pieces you’ll still wear post-baby. We've put together three outfits to take you from weekday to weekend in maternity style.

WEEKDAY ERRANDS - Tackle a day of groceries, errands, school drop-off and coffee catch-up in your active wear. Layer key favourites from your everyday wardrobe mixed with a few staple maternity pieces. It’s worth investing in a good pair of leggings that can easily be paired with a draped cardigan, tee and slip-on trainers for a go-anywhere look.

32 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

David Jones Welcomes

WEEKEND LUNCH - From lunch with the ladies to a family celebration, you too can step out in the popular Country Road striped dress. While it's not essentially a maternity style, the stretch cotton fabric gives room for you and your bump.

EVENING EVENT - Everyone needs a little Camilla in their wardrobe; the flowing style of the beautiful kaftans means one size truly does fit all. With infinite ways to wear it, from free-flowing to off-the-shoulder, knotted or belted, you’ll feel amazing and be able to wear it once your bub is born too.

Don't get too attached – winter is giving way to a season that celebrates new horizons. David Jones has launched its spring/summer 2016 campaign, exhibiting a collection of bold looks photographed against the sweeping New York skyline.

Supermodel Elsa Hosk stars in the lookbook and accompanying film, shot solely on an iPhone, alongside brand ambassadors Jessica Gomes and Montana Cox. “There is only one name synonymous with bringing the finest of the world to Australia – that is David Jones, offering endless possibilities for quality, service and style," says David Jones General Manager Marketing and Communications, Michiel Tops.

Highlighting the coming season's key trends (think lustrous metallics, retro prints and boudoir dressing), the mood is modern, confident and feminine – all elements of David Jones' signature sophistication.

The campaign showcases acclaimed Australian designers Romance Was Born, Zimmermann, KitX, Ellery, Camilla, Christopher Esber, Camilla and Marc, Dion Lee, Carla Zampatti and Bec & Bridge, alongside goodies from international favourites Proenza Schouler, Victoria Beckham, Valentino, Alexander Wang, Chanel, Rag & Bone and Stuart Weitzman.

Watch the campaign film here (online magazine version) and visit your local David Jones to take a journey through a brave new world of endless possibilities.

HEALTH + WELLBEING //

A Good Health Tonic A simple elixir of water and apple cider vinegar with a touch of honey is a fantastic morning health tonic. As part of balancing the body's pH, apple cider vinegar creates an overall detoxification of the body. Research shows that it can help stimulate cardiovascular circulation and help detoxify the liver.

Swap your latte for a Green Tea Green tea’s antioxidants can help protect us from free radical damage both externally and internally. Consuming green tea will help to clean up oxidisation inside our body and slow premature ageing. It is also fantastic for the metabolism and helps with burning fat.

Nourish your skin Nourish your skin after months of drying, cold weather by hydrating the skin with cold pressed organic coconut oil. It’s natural, pure and inexpensive. Coconut oil contains mediumchain fatty acids, which helps to retain moisture content of the skin, as the fats eliminate moisture loss through the pores on the skin. Coconut oil is rich in many proteins which keep the skin healthy and rejuvenated.

Welcome to the Hunter

MECCA MAXIMA!

Get outside and move the body

Spring Clean

The first MECCA Maxima to open in the Hunter region has flung open its doors to hundreds of shoppers who waited from the wee hours of the morning to be first to experience the store and its fabulous product range.

YOUR INSIDES!

MECCA Maxima promises to be the region’s hottest destination for beauty lovers with dozens of make-up brands, trends and expertise in a glamorous and interactive environment.

WORDS: SONYA TODD-JONES Dip Health Sciences (Pathology), Dip Practice Management, Dip RM Owner and Manager - Mojo Health.

The road to Mecca was relatively clear for founder and CEO Jo Horgan who, as a youngster, would obsessively watch her mother apply her makeup. Two degrees, a stint at L’Oreal Paris and an unwavering vision of how a makeup store should make it’s customers feel, saw Horgan open the first Mecca store in Melbourne in 1997. There are now over 70 MECCA Maxima beauty boutiques throughout Australia and New Zealand taking a sizeable bite at the $4billion Australian beauty market.

What’s more satisfying than a thorough Spring Clean?

Dusting away the cobwebs, clearing the clutter and opening up the doors to let that clean Spring air in. But this time, we’re talking about you and your body! We have been spring cleaning for hundreds of years, freshening and sprucing up our homes from top to bottom. Now it's time to shed YOUR winter coat!

Bringing the beauty lover her one-stop beauty destination with the hottest makeup brands, trends and expertise in a glamorous and interactive environment, Mecca Maxima stocks a blend of exclusive and non-exclusive brands. If you haven't visited yet then what are you waiting for!

So where to start? Here are a few simple food and lifestyle suggestions to give you that healthy reboot to put the Spring back in your step!

We have hibernated during Winter, so now it’s time to enjoy the warmth the sunshine brings. Our primary source of Vitamin D is when our skin is exposed to ultraviolet-B (UVB) light from the sun. We need Vitamin D to help our calcium and phosphorus absorption and to maintain healthy bones and teeth. A walk in the park, a cycle ride, gardening or kicking a football with the kids is the best way to get your Vitamin D, stay active and connect with nature.

Would like to detox but don’t know where to start? Mojo Health is offering an excellent easy to use Spring Detox Box full of recipes, a 2-week clean eating plan and loads of tasty, healthy goodies to help you alkalise and cleanse, improve your digestion, increase energy and improve your nutrition plus a free 30 min Naturopathic consultation to personalise your Spring detox goals. Special price available until 30th September – be quick!

MOJO HEALTH Ground Floor, Charlestown Square PH (02) 4023 5320 www.mojohealth.com.au

SPRING IS HERE!

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We’re in Charlestown Square - Ground Floor ( in between Coles and Woolworths ) www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 33

HEALTH + WELLBEING //

Be S.M.A.R.T with your Goals WORDS DANIEL KILPATRICK Personal Trainer at Planet Fitness Lambton People are driven by emotion. That’s something just about every sales guru will tell you. Well, I’m going to tell you they’re 100% right, especially when it comes to my field of working in a gym.

Everyone has different reasons for joining the gym, whether you want to train to excel in your sport, improve your overall health, or to achieve your desired body. Although these goals are very different, however, they all have one thing in common, they are all based on emotion.

Personally, I have never met or heard of a person joining a gym just because they could.

I speak for the majority in saying most people walk through our doors already with a strong idea of how they want to look or what they want to achieve. Here is where things get tricky. We need to turn this idea into a goal, and the best kind of goal is a S.M.A.R.T goal! This acronym stands for a goal that is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time.

Do you want to set a S.M.A.R.T goal? Follow this simple guide!

Specific - What exactly are you trying to achieve? Eg: Do you want to get stronger? Do you want to lose weight? Or perhaps you want to get toned?

Measurable – Are you able to take and compare results to see you are heading in the right direction? Eg: lifting more weight?

Increasing or decreasing body measurements?

Or, able to see physical change? (example before and after photos) Achievable – Are you realistically able to achieve this goal?

Relevant – Is this goal relevant to you and feasible with your daily life?

Time – When do you want to achieve this goal by?

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You now have a smart goal! This is where it gets even trickier. Most people know what they want, but the hardest part when it comes to fitness goals is matching the best style of training with your goals. Here are a few common goals people often want to achieve, and ways that may help you succeed.

I want to lose weight Before I start, my answer is not spending countless hours on a treadmill while always feeling hungry. The best way to lose weight is to lose it in a way that is sustainable and habitual.

My advice Eat regular well portioned healthy meals and have a combination of weights and cardio in your training. This will help fasten your metabolism and aid in reducing fat, not just weight! The majority of this is done with food.

However, regular exercise consisting of both weights and cardio is still essential.

I want to get toned The common misconception with getting toned is that it involves HOURS of cardio. In reality, it’s a combination of decreasing body fat while increasing lean muscle mass. Doing this requires weights, but don’t worry you’re not going to get big! Apart from the health benefits (e.g increased bone density and decreased likelihood of developing lifestyle related health conditions), you are also going to burn more fat. The higher percentage of lean muscle mass you have, the more energy you will burn when you’re not exercising.

My Advice A total body weights program 3 times a week, as well as cardio on 2 of these, combined with a balanced diet, will send you in the right direction towards a toned and healthy body.

I want to build muscle and get stronger Too frequently I see people lifting TOO heavy TOO often. Lifting heavy will see results in strength, however, to get the best of both worlds, you need to train in the hypertrophy range (high volume). This is the range where your muscles are most likely to grow and still gain strength along the way.

We pride ourselves on providing a non-intimidating space and welcome everyone – no matter who you are. We understand that for too many people the biggest challenge is to actually walk through the doors of a health club for the first time. So, we aim to make you feel comfortable from your very first visit.

MEMBERSHIPS FROM

4

$

.95

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My Advice Train with weights doing 6-12 reps for 3-6 sets rather than slogging it under a heavy bar only doing a few reps at a time.

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Scooters & Mobility Newcastle endeavour to meet customers’ needs by providing the very best brands (including Merits, Elite Scooters, Shoprider, Drive Medical and Bruno Stairlifts) and exceptional service either in-store or in your home.

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TRAVEL //

Wild About Africa!

By Megan O'Sullivan Africa has an addictive charm that no other part of the world can replicate. From the joyfulness of the locals, the stunning scenery, to the breathtaking wildlife sightings, there are delights around every corner!

As a born and bred South African, Sue Rigby from itravel is very passionate about her homeland. Sue’s extensive knowledge of Africa has enabled her to personally design, and escort many exclusive ‘itravel African safaris’ which offer a well-rounded African experience, staying in the comfort of luxury game lodges & 4 star hotels.

Sue says- “I still get excited to travel to Southern Africa- even after so many visits. I love how wildlife sightings vary from one trip to the next, and the excitement of my tour guests experiencing these moments for the first time is priceless. I am thrilled when my clients tell me that it’s the most amazing holiday they have ever had, and I do hear this often!’

Africa is a truly unforgettable destination that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. In 2017 itravel have two exclusive small group tours, escorted by Sue Rigby. The first takes in South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe- with highlights including Chobe & Kruger National Parks, Victoria Falls and Johannesburg. The second is a new itinerary incorporating Namibia!

If you want to have the most exciting holiday of your life contact itravel today for further details on our exclusive African adventures!

Discover Japan WORDS: MEGAN O’SULLIVAN Japan sits firmly at the intersection of cutting-edge modern technology and ancient tradition.

In partnership with award-winning Great Rail Journeys, Travelmarvel has selected the ultimate highlights of this incredible destination and you can explore them all via the country’s extensive rail network, including the “Shinkansen” or bullet train. During the 12 day Discovering Japan holiday, you’ll fly into Tokyo and explore the buzzing capital full of neon skyscrapers, quirky restaurants and ancient temples.

It’s then off to stunning Hakone National Park travelling by rail in an observation car, to see its many lakes and hot springs.

Arguably Japan’s most distinctive landmark, the often snowcapped peak of Mount Fuji is a sight to behold. You’ll discover more about the mountain on a visit to its information centre and a drive at the base of the mountain. Japan’s ancient history is on full display during excursions to Matsumoto Castle and Miyajima Island, and you’ll journey to the futuristic city of Osaka aboard the famous bullet train.

During your holiday, you will enjoy a featured meal of traditional cuisine at a Kyoto restaurant as well as a Welcome Dinner in Tokyo, a Farewell Dinner in Osaka and all breakfasts are included.

Exploring Japan by high-speed rail means that you are able to travel further distances and discover more of this fascinating country. In each destination, we’ll ensure you see famous sights and enjoy experiences that are unique to the region you’re visiting. In Kyoto, you’ll wander the iconic Gion district to keep watch for a glimpse of the many beautiful geisha who can be seen here. From a traditional tea ceremony to the harrowing personal story from a Hiroshima survivor, you’ll get to the heart of Japan.

Travelmarvel also offers extended itineraries so you can discover more of Asia: 24 Day Wonders of Japan, Vietnam and Cambodia tour including a Mekong River cruise; and a 24 Day Kingdoms of Asia: China and Japan Revealed tour, including a Yangtze River cruise. Both these tours include the 12-Day Japan rail holiday but take you further with an in-depth look at one to three more countries. When in China, Vietnam and Cambodia, you’ll enjoy the services of a Travelmarvel Tour Director as well as local Travelmarvel guides.

There’s no doubt that Japan is an exciting addition to Travelmarvel’s Asia holidays options for 2017. Contact itravel today to discover how you can explore its unique delights itravel The Junction (4962 1116) or itravel Warners Bay (4942 1116)

CELEBRATE SPRING AT Floriade As Floriade, Australia’s premier celebration of spring, returns from 17th September to 16th October, over one million flowers are set to bloom in Canberra’s Commonwealth Park for the event’s biggest year yet.

itravel The Junction

PH 4962 1116

194 Union Street sales@itravelthejunction.com.au

itravel Warners Bay

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Developed in 1988 as a once-off floral tribute to mark Australia’s Bicentenary and Canberra’s 75th anniversary, Floriade is now an iconic event in the ACT calendar. Aside from celebrating spring, Floriade will be doing things differently in 2016. Boasting the most impressive schedule to date, the event will prove it’s much more than just a flower show, and there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

For the first time ever, Floriade will be the flower festival that moved. In addition to designed feature gardens on site, more than 100 species of tulips are currently growing offsite in 192 portable boxes. In September, these boxes will be

transferred to Commonwealth Park and put together like a giant puzzle, setting the stunning backdrop for the monthlong event. Floriade welcomes some new tulip varieties plus mixed annuals to complement the floral footprint. Aside from the magnificent florals and sculptures on display, the festival will also host workshops and masterclasses with industry leaders.

Find further information, including accommodation options and a full events schedule, at www.floriadeaustralia.com

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

For all your Australian, sustainably caught, fresh local seafood needs, you can't go past your local 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 Williamtown-raised Graham, who trained at Hunter TAFE and began his career at Newcastle’s harbourside restaurant Scratchleys, showed Flanagan the ropes in his Notting Hill restaurant.

“I was there for a week. It was up until then, the hardest week’s work of my life, starting at 8 am and finishing at 2 am. It was incredible, though. The food that comes out of that kitchen is fantastic, so beautiful and absolutely flawless (because Brett does not miss a thing),” she said. “Brett was really good to me, he invited me to dine there after my week. It was eight courses of absolute perfection.”

It seems that Flanagan has impressed her new employers. “I have been at Oblix for two and a half months now. I got promoted to Chef de Partie a couple of weeks ago,” she admits proudly.

Flanagan has little time to enjoy the panoramic views of the London skyline from Oblix, however, as she sometimes finds herself working 80 hour weeks. “It is hard to make plans for the future, time just goes so quickly over here. I hope to stay at Oblix for quite a while and progress further.”

It is no doubt that Graham understands the gift of a good mentor. He once disclosed to Marquess Magazine the profound effect that Scratchleys owner, Neil Slater, had on his career “I will definitely be here for quite some time. I miss Australia, but approach. “In those early years in Australia, my first boss Neil London is amazing!” set me a good example of how to run a restaurant and how difficult it could be,” he said.

Culinary Scholarship Winner Carves Out a Career When Hamilton South’s Jodie Flanagan arrived in London, she had little idea of the culinary career that lay ahead of her. The 23-year old travelled to London as part of her prize, as the winner of the 2015 Brett Graham Culinary Scholarship. “I arrived on the 2nd of January, and it has been non-stop ever since,” she said.

Valued at $10,000, the scholarship included return flights to London and the opportunity to work alongside Novocastrian chef Brett Graham in his Two Michelin Star restaurant The Ledbury, in London’s Notting Hill.

Like many young Australian travellers, Flanagan arrived in London and took up residence in a youth hostel. However, soon she was working alongside Brett Graham at The Ledbury, which was recently voted the 14th best restaurant in the world.

Bring a friend and get a FREE class!

“I was so impressed by the huge open kitchen, massive team and the push of the chefs. When I moved and was considering finding a new job, I saw that Oblix we're hiring. I sent off my CV, and they hired me as a Commis Chef after my trial.”

Flanagan, who is also Hunter TAFE-trained, seems to be following Graham’s lead when it comes to her debut in the London culinary scene. Graham also moved to London after completing his apprenticeship in Newcastle and receiving a trip to London as a prize for winning a cookery competition.

Having only been in London since January, Flanagan already has experienced a number of placements in Michelin Starrated restaurants, on the back of her initial placement at The Ledbury. A stand-out for her was the famous ‘nose-to-tail’ restaurant St. John.

“St John was everything I had read about and more. Delicious, simple food coming out of such a dated kitchen and, oh, so much offal! I would have loved to have stayed there, but they had a full team at the time,” she said.

Soon after, however, Flanagan’s 23rd birthday celebrations proved serendipitous when she was taken to Oblix restaurant, located on the 32nd floor of the London’s iconic Shard building.

The prestigious culinary prize the Brett Graham Culinary Scholarship was established in 2003 as a partnership between Hunter TAFE and the Hunter Culinary Association and is named after one of Hunter TAFE’s most successful alumni, Brett Graham.

Entries for the 2016 Scholarship are now closed.

Two rounds of a cooking competition are held to determine the overall winner, with the preliminary round taking place on the 11th of October, 2016.

Three finalists will then go on to compete in the final round on the 18th of October and will be judged on leadership, cooking ability and presentation. For more information, please go to www.hunter.tafensw.edu.au

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Stay tuned for new low budget classes coming up on our website! www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 39

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pathway for others, Australian chefs began to bring something else into the international arena with chefs bringing a fresh new approach to cuisine that is much more about collaboration and infusing international styles into fine dining and everyday food.

So what of the commercial cooking landscape in 2016? Well, there is a new benchmark and one that has been a long-time coming. This year the internationally acclaimed Michelin Guide included a new cuisine style, contemporary Australian cuisine as part of its inaugural edition 2016 Michelin Guide Singapore for the first time in its 115 year history. I am very honoured and pleased to say that Osia Bar & Grill which is a joint venture I have with Resorts World Sentosa, was awarded its first Michelin Star.

Only two Novocastrian Chefs have been awarded this coveted award. It is an honour and a testament to the incredible work of the teams that my young chefs and service staff I have to work with. But most importantly it is an important next step for our industry.

Local chefs are plating up some of the best cuisines on offer but how do we keep forging into new markets and influencing the industry?

WHAT’S NEXT

For Australian Chefs?

About 30 years ago it was tough going for a young Australian Chef looking for experience in an international restaurant. For most aspiring chefs, experience and indeed paid work was pretty hard to come by with most international restaurants preferring to take on European style approaches to menus.

A few years later, with thanks to many chefs who carved out a

I believe that cuisine in the next decade must become much more about quality produce and local talent. The Hunter has much to be proud of with an industry that keeps raising the bar on quality and a training sector through Hunter TAFE that keeps delivering quality young practitioners. This partnership is further supported by effective partnerships that provide scholarships, internships and support systems that are producing some of the best quality chefs the industry has seen.

So what of the produce? I believe that this is a key factor in the way in which we set ourselves apart. Whether it is sourced from the dairy farmer near Dungog or the truffle farms of France, good quality produce is essential.

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.

Teamed with the Hunter region's wine and craft beer, The Persian Place has something to offer from a quiet night for two to a function that is sure to impress.

Experience the sharing style Persian menu...

•99% gluten free •Vegetarian and vegan heaven •Best sharing banquet around •Lunch specials from $10 weekdays

43 Bolton Street, Newcastle PH 4926 5500 Open 7 nights for Dinner 6pm-9pm Thursday - Sunday for Lunch 12pm-2.30pm www.thepersianplace.com.au 40 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Scott Webster is a Newcastle-born renowned chef who has worked at leading international hotels and restaurants in Australia and abroad. He owns the award-winning Carrington Place, emporium-style food store Throsby Street Providore, and three star Osia Steak & Seafood Grill in Singapore. Scott is also an international food consultant, manufacturer and exporter.

The Blind Monk

Inner City Winemakers

Raising the bar of authentic, experienced based dining and drinking. With 14 rotating beer and cider taps and the largest whiskey collection in Newcastle, the team at The Blind Monk have become renowned for excellence in the growing craft beer market… but it doesn’t stop there!

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

The Blind Monk boasts an extensive range of cocktails and spirits. A new cocktail is added each and every week!

Stop in today for a tasting of our quality wines crafted from grapes sourced from only the best vineyards throughout NSW Wine Regions and enjoy not only fine wines but fine art in our gallery!

The funky rear courtyard and separate function area are perfect for all types of functions from birthdays to corporate events.

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

ADDRESS 76 Beaumont Street, Hamilton OPEN Monday 5pm - Midnight, Tues to Sun 11.30am - Midnight PH (02) 4023 5290 W www.theblindmonk.com.au

Fume Blanc and Gewurztraminer amongst the whites. The selection also includes Sparkling Wine and two Fortified wines.

Largest Whisky Collection in the Hunter!

With such a wide selection of wines and a growing customer base, the Inner City Winemakers’ wine club was established just over two years ago.

Join the Club at

INNER CITY WINEMAKERS Inner City Winemakers is a cellar door and winery in one and provides locals, members, and visitors a unique opportunity to sample a wonderful range of wines made at their onsite winery in Wickham.

For owner and winemaker Rob Wilce, the winemaking process starts in the vineyard where he sources small batches of only the best quality grapes from wine regions that include the Hunter Valley, New England and Orange. With this diversity, Rob has been able to craft an extensive collection of wines that include Tempranillo, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Merlot amongst the reds and Chardonnay, Verdelho, Riesling,

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Since opening their doors more than two years ago, The Blind Monk have focused on showcasing the best and the newest from the Australian craft beer scene. In that time, they have included cider taps, a cocktail list and great selection of whisky that has had patrons flocking to the Beaumont Street bar.

"We didn’t want to have just another wine club," said Rob. "Instead, we wanted members to feel excited to be a part of something that is really special, and I think we have achieved this with much of our membership coming from wordof-mouth."

With what seems to be a new whisky label added each week they also boast the largest range in the Hunter. Recent additions include Kilkerran Work in Progress 7 Sherry Wood 11 Year Old Single Malt from the Glengyle Distillery and Nant Homestead Reserve Single Malt Whisky – a very rare and boutique whisky by world standards with only 1400 bottles released.

"It's also a relatively social and involved club, with many of our members joining us in the winery during vintage, getting their hands dirty and getting a real feel for how the wines are made."

"We also hold dinners throughout the year at our winery and at a few Newcastle restaurants as well as Sunday afternoon food and wine sessions where members can taste the wines matched with different foods and flavours."

When asked about his favourite Whisky, owner Phil Elsley says you can't really go past the recently added The Macallan 12yo. Described as deliciously smooth with a palate of rich dried fruits and sherry, balanced with wood smoke and spice and finished with sweet toffee and dried fruits, we’d have to agree.

To participate in the wine club, members are asked to agree to purchase two dozen bottles of wine per year, one in March/April and the second in September/October. Member benefits include discounts of up to 30% on the entire range of wines.

Look what’s cooking at Carrington...

“The Blind Monk is all about great tasting beverages accompanied by equally good, fresh tasty food. As a result, a big emphasis is placed

on sourcing beers and ciders from local breweries to ensure fresh, unique flavours and a regular turnover,” says Phil.

As with the beers, the wine list takes the same approach with wines represented from all over Australia, but with strong support for the local Hunter Valley wine region.

The menu is simple, fresh and tasty – from oysters done every way, snack foods and share platters, the renowned monk’s burgers, salads and gourmet pizza’s to a choice of main meals that include risotto, crispy skin pork belly, roast chicken, and rib eye cutlets.

With it's chilled out vibe and taps rotating frequently, The Blind Monk is the place to be when it comes to sitting back with your friends and family, while having a drink, sharing some food and enjoying the hustle of Beaumont Street from behind the arched windows.

guest house & dining

a. 132 Young St, Carrington

p. 4961 1116

e. relax@carringtonplace.com.au

w. carringtonplace.com.au

Tim Montgomery & Oliver Ferguson

Tim

Amazing things happen when you combine great talent with unrivalled enthusiasm. See for yourself and discover the brilliant dishes prepared by these two award winning chefs at Scott Webster’s Carrington Place now!

132 Young St, Carrington

ph. 4961 1116

carringtonplace.com.au

e. relax@carringtonplace.com.au

Oliver

guest house & dining

a. 132 Young St, Carrington

p. 4961 1116

e. relax@carringtonplace.com.au

w. carringtonplace.com.au www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 41

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Welcome back to the Eastern Tiger Restaurant!

Located at Cardiff RSL Club, the Eastern Tiger Restaurant is one of Newcastle’s favourite all-you-can-eat Asian restaurants with a long standing reputation for providing a delectable buffet menu which now includes a delicious new Sushi Bar. Open every day of the year for lunch and dinner with mid-week Member discounts available, the Eastern Tiger Restaurant’s menu can also be incorporated into private and corporate function bookings and is a popular venue of choice for weddings, birthdays, family get-togethers, special celebrations and Christmas Day. We look forward to welcoming you to the best value restaurant in the Newcastle where you will be treated to quality, variety and freshness like no other.

Open 7 days – lunch and dinner!

LOCAL WINE INDUSTRY

one of the most cellar-worthy white wine styles on the planet and Hunter Valley Shiraz as being Australia’s finest example of mediumbodied Shiraz.

Up there as one of Australia’s most reputable wine labels, Tyrrell’s Vineyard, dominated the show prize list winning 17 of the 59 gold medals. The team at Tyrrell's will definitely need to expand the trophy room, having won 10 of the 24 trophies on offer. These included trophies for Best Current and One-Year-Old Chardonnay, Best Two-Year-Old and Older Chardonnay, Best Mature Three-Year-Old The Hunter Valley Wine Show has been held and Older Shiraz, Best Mature Two-Year–Old continuously since 1974 and is considered and Older Semillon, Best Museum Red, one of the leading wine shows in Australia – Best Museum White, Best Semillon, Best attracting the highest calibre of Australian and Chardonnay and Best White Wine of the Show. international judges.

The Tyrrell’s 2005, 2013 and 2016 Belford A team of respected wine show judges led by Semillon whites won the Iain Riggs Wine of PJ Charteris and including international judge Provenance.

Matt Walls assessed a total of 644 Hunter Other awards worth mentioning are Silkman Valley wine entries from 70 exhibitors in 33 Wines who won the trophy for Best Shiraz different classes. This year’s results saw 59 and Best Two-Year-Old Shiraz for their 2014 Gold, 108 Silver and 208 Bronze medals Reserve Shiraz and little-known producer being awarded. Twenty-four trophies were Dimbulla Estate who took out Best Red Wine also awarded and shared between just 12 of the Show and Best Other Red Trophy for producers. their 2014 Tempranillo Shiraz.

Show President David Flynn said it was a The Little Wine Company 2016 Vermentino fantastic result for the Hunter. won the Best Other White Variety trophy and “Once again we’ve seen the longevity and the Peter Drayton 2015 Semillon won the Best quality of our Semillons demonstrated with One-Year-Old Dry Semillon. a 2009 vintage taking out the Best White of Other trophy-winning wines were the Show trophy.”

Hungerford Hill 2016 Verdelho, Drayton’s International Judge Matt Walls, who is also a Family Wines Heritage Vine Liqueur, Tempus writer, author, Decanter contributor and editor Two 2016 Copper Rosé Shiraz and Margan of the London Wine Guide app, was similarly Family Wines 2011 Breaking Ground Ripasso impressed by his first visit to Australia.

Shiraz.

Recognised at Awards

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“We do see some Hunter Valley wines in the UK, but not as much as I’d like. I’ve seen quite a few Semillons and Shiraz, which were very good. It was good to see a few Mediterranean varieties demonstrate what else the Hunter is about,” he said.

Head judge PJ Charteris agrees. “There were also some fascinating other varieties, away from the traditional Semillon, Chardonnay, and Verdelho that we’re known for – more of a Mediterranean flair which is great to see,” he said.

Much like previous year’s awards, this year’s results reaffirmed Hunter Valley Semillon as

One of the unique aspects of the Hunter Valley Wine Show is the "named" class of judging, where an exhibitor produces wine from a specific piece of land that the winemaker considers to have an intrinsic quality.

Trophy for Best Named Vineyard White Wine went to Meerea Park for their exceptional 2009 Alexander Munro Semillon. The trophies for Best Named Vineyard Red Wine and Best Named Vineyard Wine went to Lucy’s Run for their Lucy’s Run 2014 Shiraz. A fantastic achievement for Lucy’s Run owners Brad and Heather Wright.

Suze DeMarchi

Music, food and wine – they go hand-in-hand, and there are few things more pleasurable than experiencing them all at once. Hope Rocks will be a super filled evening with some of Australia’s most well-loved bands gracing the stage: Baby Animals, The Screaming Jets, Ian Moss, Richard Clapton, The Superjesus, Dragon and Choir Boys.

Hope Rocks will take place at one of NSW most picturesque outdoor concert venues and be a spectacular night. Says Suze DeMarchi of Baby Animals “We are thrilled to be a part of the first ever Hope Rocks festival. We love a great outdoor gig and what better than to partner that with some fine wine and a picturesque location… it’s a win-win.“

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

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

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

The fast take away options are also delicious.

ADDRESS 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

HOPE ROCKS 2016

With Australia’s Favourite HomeGrown Acts

Get ready for an all-star line-up of some of the country’s finest acts as they prepare to rock the Hunter Valley! This show promises to deliver all your favourite Australian classic rock legends on the one stage, as Hope Estate proudly presents HOPE ROCKS on Saturday 26th November.

● ● ● ● ● ●

Hope Estate, considered one of Australia’s premier winery concert destinations, continues to bring together the finest musical talents as well as delivering quality live music and sound experience. They have staged some of the best live shows in Australia and as Michael Hope says "we're thrilled to support the Australian music industry by bringing Hope Rocks to the Hunter Valley. This stellar line-up of homegrown talent is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and will have the vineyards rocking. It will be a brilliant show!"

Hope Rocks will be sure to give New South Wales audiences their fix of the best of Australian rock. Don’t miss this awesome evening of music and rock event of the year!

For more information and tickets visit www.hopeestate.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 www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 43

Beau Blundell, club president

“The experience for spectators is an exciting one, hearing the thundering of hooves, clashing of sticks and thud of players colliding.”

The Club Captain of Wirragulla Polo Club is Jock Mackay, grandson of one of the founding members of the club and a key member of the Australian polo team. Jock has been a professional polo player for 12 years and has been selected as part of the Australian squad to play at The Polo World Championships, which will take place in October 2017 in Sydney.

“The 2016 Hunter Polo Challenge is looking to be the biggest yet,” Mackay says. “We already have 10 teams from around NSW booked to play, which is a good indication of the anticipation for the event. The level of polo will be high, with some competitors very keen to win trophies and defeat previous winning opponents.”

GRAB A PICNIC BASKET AND HEAD TO THE POLO! On Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September 2016 the Wirragulla Polo Club in the Hunter Valley town of Dungog will host The Hunter Polo Challenge – an event that unites country folk and urbanites, all seeking the sociable, relaxed, weekend fun that only a polo tournament can provide.

One can always tell from the atmosphere of a country town, that a polo tournament is imminent. There is excitement in the air; the pubs, hotels and B&B’s full; the horse truck procession

In addition to the polo that will be played, guests can expect gourmet food vendors, a well stocked licensed bar, banked up the main street; the young grooms saddling, plaiting, entertainment for the kids and activities to get the crowd brushing and bandaging; the players assessing their horses involved such as the quintessential ‘stomping of the divots,' and planning their game; the jovial and excitable commentator fashions on the field, and prizes in abundance. warming his voice over the speaker.

Proceeds from The Hunter Valley Challenge will go to The Wirragulla Polo Club has been hosting polo games for nearly Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service who WPC has been a keen 100 years, with ‘The Hunter Polo Challenge’ having taken place supporter of for many years. for the past 4 years.

Beau Blundell, President of Wirragulla Polo Club, Director of NSW Polo, and Australian Polo Federation coach says “We are a not for profit sporting club that endeavours to promote the game of polo for competition as well as a social or spectator sport that can be enjoyed by everyone.”

For anyone wondering just what a game of polo is like, Blundell says “Polo requires teamwork, gamesmanship, athleticism and agile ponies with plenty of stamina and a keen sense of the game; there is no place for the faint-hearted.”

Indulge with

Hunter Valley

Chocolate

WHAT The Hunter Polo Challenge WHERE Wirragulla Polo Club, Dungog WHEN Saturday 17 and Sunday 18 September 2016, 9am to 5pm.

TICKETS Tickets for the Hunter Polo Challenge can be purchased on the day at the gate for $10 each. Children under 16 years old are free. A coach service will run from Maitland and Dungog.

Introducing the Hunter Valley's

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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 45 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

EDUCATION + TRAINING //

NEW RECORDING STUDIO ROCKS HUNTER TAFE Hunter TAFE’s Regional Music Institute (RMI) has unveiled its fully refurbished sound recording and production studio. The RMI Studio is the first of its calibre in Newcastle and is comparable to the best studios in London and Los Angeles.

The studio includes a complete refurbishment of the learning spaces to deliver two dedicated studios equipped with two control rooms, a live tracking room, vocal booth and a postproduction suite. The RMI facilities are rounded out with a performance space that will cater for student rehearsals and live recordings.

“We are seeing increasing demand for creative skills required in industry such as in business for good problem solving, the development of new technologies and in the health sector where music therapy is being used for a number of applications including treatment of patients with disability and dementia,” Ms. Conicella said. “The career pathways available for graduates are quite diverse, and our programs at Hunter TAFE reflect that.”

Features of the technology and equipment include a 48 channel SSL (Solid State Logic) Duality Desk, a 48 channel ProTools HDX platform and extensive collection of classic outboard equipment.

To find out more about RMI music courses on offer at Hunter TAFE, please visit the Creative Industries page at www.huntertafe.edu.au or call 131 225.

Hunter TAFE Institute Director, Christine Warrington said the new RMI studio presents a significant investment into vocational education and training. “We have worked closely with industry partners to design a music and sound production educational facility that is world class.”

Hunter TAFE Head Teacher of Music and Performing Arts, Teresa Conicella, said the new studio was an important part of providing the best quality training programs for the music and creative industries.

monitoring and data management firm Novecom. His employer has supported him in attending the one-day-a-week course. “They see the benefits of the skills I am developing,” Neilands said.

“We are witnessing a shift in perception about the value and significance of creativity in our current and future working lives,” she said.

Honing Robotic Skills for an Automated Future A mention of robotics can prompt many to think of space-age humanoid robots akin to Rosie the Maid from ‘The Jetsons.' The reality of robotics, however, is much more practical, with Hunter TAFE offering training that can be applied to robotic equipment maintenance in the field, in industries as diverse as manufacturing and agriculture.

“For students interested in robotics the Certificate III Electronics and Communication is perfect,” said Hunter TAFE Head Teacher (Electronics) David Leask. “It’s a course where students learn about systems control and automation, skills that are in increasing demand in a variety of local industries,” said Mr. Leask.

Project Manager Thomas Mitchell, Hunter TAFE Director – Business & Creative Industries (standing) with Jason Darney and Sam Bath from SSL (UK).

Cardiff South’s Conrad Neilands is in his second year of the three-year course and is employed full-time as a System Integration Specialist with Mayfield West environmental

“There are many efficiencies that we now have, regarding repairing equipment in-house that we would have previously had to send elsewhere. There are also new opportunities for the type of work we take on. I wish I had known about the course five years ago.”

Neilands is currently using the automation skills he has learnt at Hunter TAFE to develop a prototype for a device to catch wild horses humanely, needed for an Upper Hunter client.

“It’s a machine that can see in the dark and trigger a gate to close,” he said. “Currently, this is being done by a person throughout the night, in the cold and dark, so you can imagine the benefits. We’re hoping there will be future implications for catching feral pigs.”

Hunter TAFE is also working with a fullyautomated dairy farm on developing skills of students in servicing the machinery that milks 430 cows multiple times a day. David Leask said the machinery was extremely sophisticated. “The machine can identify each individual cow. It even knows if the cow has three or four functional teats. There is a laser that locates the teats, and the machine cleans the teats before it begins the milking. It can even detect health issues in a cow. With such a sophisticated facility there is very intricate, informed maintenance that is needed. This is what we’re teaching the students,” said Mr. Leask.

Upskill y oUr staf f or bUild yo Ur caree r.

Hunter TAFE now offers Fee Free* cours es!

You can now try a new are a of study, fin d out if a ca reer area is for y ou or upskil l your workforce.

Google Hunter TAFE 46 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Call 131 225

MA16076

*This training is fully subsidised by the NSW Government. You must meet eligibility criteria for training subsidised by the NSW Government. Fee-free courses are based on qualifications listed on the 2016 NSW Skills List, and have been developed to provide employment outcomes or lead to further study. Provider 90002 TAFE NSW Hunter Institute. See website for full program details.

Excellence in Entrepreneurship Award Our local, regional, state and national economies need entrepreneurs. People with vision, passion and a ‘can-do’ attitude business people who see an opportunity and seize it. Entrepreneurs are often risk takers who have a go in the spirit of Australian enterprise. If things don’t turn out as planned, they dust themselves off and start looking again for another opportunity.

Entrepreneurs have the capacity to influence others, expand our horizons and create new possibilities. They challenge the existing

paradigm, they sometimes reshape our thinking and show us it is achievable.

The Lake Macquarie City Business Awards recognises the unique talents contributed to our community by this particular brand of business person and this year’s award for Excellence in Entrepreneurship went to Sue Felsinger of Kip McGrath.

Under Sue’s guidance, Kip McGrath Centres in Belmont, Toronto and Adamstown help local kids gain confidence and achieve better school results in Maths and English.

Congratulations Sue! Yet, the general expectation is that a leader will sustain high levels of stress over extended periods of time. Indeed, leaders have been reported as saying that the more senior the role, the more reluctance to say “I’m struggling with the pressure.”

Constant thinking about what needs to be done and not being able to switch off can cause sleep disruption. Other signs of stress can be fatigue, physical tension, frustration, low mood, social withdrawal and increased alcohol intake. The impact of ongoing stress can feel like a prolonged “wear and tear.”

Family and social relationships, generally an important buffer to stress, can also suffer. Leadership effectiveness and work performance can also be compromised.

Resource depletion and leadership style

LEADERSHIP UNDER STRESS WORDS ANNE WARD Economic conditions and the pace of change continue to demand that businesses achieve more with less. This brings with it pressure on leaders to maintain high levels of personal performance. Working under pressure is integral to being in a leadership role and the sense of achievement is often very rewarding in itself. However, when work demands start to drain personal resources, it can leave a person feeling overcommitted, overworked and overwhelmed.

Leadership and management involve different tasks that draw on various cognitive processes. For example, operational tasks like analysis, planning and co-ordination require different cognitive resources to people management. When a leader’s personal resources become depleted, switching between competing cognitive tasks can be harder. This can create fatigue.

Chronic stress can have a down-regulation effect on the brain’s executive functioning, making it harder to think, make decisions and retain information. The down-regulation effect can also cause a negative emotions bias that alters a person’s perceptions of people and situations. Examples are, a leader under pressure may be reactive when questioned or consulted by colleagues, or focuses on mistakes more than acknowledging effort and achievement. Poor quality decisions can leave others confused and disengaged. Low trust can undermine teamwork, creativity and morale. In this sense, leaders cast a shadow on the work environment of others and can, unknowingly, limit the efforts of those around them.

A leader’s own mental wellbeing determines the level of personal resources available for effective leadership behaviour.

When these resources are depleted, leadership effectiveness

can be diminished, and even destructive. In this situation, compromised leadership becomes a subtle but discernable business risk.

Protective strategies This raises the question of what leaders can do to protect themselves against resource depletion. In addition to regular exercise, good sleep hygiene and a healthy diet, self-leadership strategies can provide a buffer to negative stress. Selfleadership strategies involve key aspects of behavior, thinking and emotions management that shape personal performance.

These strategies generate a sense of personal mastery and emotional wellbeing that, in turn, help to reduce strain, conserve energy and increase personal effectiveness. The good news is that self-leadership strategies involve skills that can be learned. Personal coaching can provide a cost effective, time efficient way to build these personal leadership resources.

Coaching can be helpful in developing adaptive skills that build resilience and provide a buffer to stress and burnout. Coaching can, therefore, be a wise preventative health strategy. Coaching can also raise awareness of ingrained patterns of behaviour that others may be working around yet, none-the-less may be impacting productivity and effectiveness. In this way, coaching also provides an opportunity to explore individual strengths and areas for improvement in a way that is relevant to one’s work context.

Coaching is an unregulated industry so it’s important to know what to look for in a coach. For more information see www.mindinsight.com.au/finding-the-right-coach/

Anne Ward is principal psychologist of Mindinsight, providing evidence-based psychology services to adults, children and adolescents. Mindinsight is located in the T&G Building at 45 Hunter Street Newcastle.

Visit www.mindinsight.com.au for more information.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 47

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Developing Future Olympians WORDS: ANDREA CIOTTI

Hunter Academy of Sport

The 2016 Rio Olympic Games have come to a close, but that does not mean the training has stopped. Talented junior sailors, golfers, hockey players and more are currently training for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics here in the Hunter and your child could be too.

The Hunter Academy of Sport is one of eleven sports academies assisting talented junior athletes from regional areas of New South Wales with the goal to identify, develop and educate and give opportunities to athletes through the pathway into elite sport.

Many Hunter Academy athletes have gone on to represent at national or state level in their chosen sports, while this year, nine athletes were selected to represent Australia at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

Three-time Olympic sailor Nathan Outteridge stated prior to his first Olympic appearance at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, “As a member of the Hunter Academy of Sport I had access to the best coaching in NSW and Australia. The squad would have regular monthly training sessions where we would have different coaches who helped us in various areas of our sport. Being a part of the squad also gave me access to sharing knowledge with other top sailors in the Hunter Region and also meeting other young top sportspeople from other sports at various inter-sport camps.”

Current Hunter Academy track and field standout Erin Cleaver, a 17-year-old from Whitebridge will make her first Paralympic appearance this month in Rio. Erin credits the Hunter Academy of Sport on assisting with her nerves when being selected to national teams for the NSW State Team and Australian National Team.

Today The Academy boasts a broad program platform encompassing 19 sports (including “The skills I have learned while being part of 14 Olympic sports) with 450 talented young The Academy have made me less anxious sportspeople taking part in the talent when selected on the teams for the Australian development programs. The overall aim being Junior Championships and IPC World to identify and develop our next generation Championships,” she said. of sporting heroes. The recent additions of baseball/softball, surfing, karate, climbing and Ready to Chase your Olympic Dream?

The Hunter Academy is currently accepting skateboarding into the 2020 Olympic Games nominations for the following talent means greater opportunity to Hunter’s elite to development programs: Australian rules, qualify for the international competition. athletes with a disability, basketball, cycling, The Academy prides itself on partnerships with golf, hockey, lawn bowls, netball, netball national and state-based professional sporting umpires, rugby 7s, tennis and ten pin bowling. bodies, ensuring all programs complement For more information and to apply for a Hunter and feed into the recognised pathways.

Academy of Sport talent development program The Academy provides advice in areas such visit www.hunteracademy.org.au as strength and conditioning, leadership, Support the Academy There are many mental health and wellbeing, skill acquisition opportunities to aid the youth in the region, and development, injury prevention, social media awareness, alcohol and drug education, not only in fostering elite athlete pathways but also in community involvement and healthy psychology of sport, teamwork, goal setting, participation programs. If you would like to nutrition advice, financial planning, media support the Hunter Academy of Sport in any training and positive body image to shape the way, contact info@hunteracademy.org.au holistic athlete who achieves success both on and off the playing field.

A collection of stunning uncluttered beaches encircles the island, the best of which was Horseshoe Bay where we watched the sun go down. In the evening we headed to the Arcadia Hotel for the traditional Wednesday night Cane Toad race. Eight toads were auctioned off to punters, each with a distinctive ribbon and a story about their history and personality told by Verne Jack our animated and hilarious MC.

FAMILY + COMMUNITY //

The race has run since 1980 with Verne's involvement beginning in 1987. Having raised more than 350,000 over the years for Arcadia Lifesaving Club Juniors and the Magnetic Island Kindergarten. The kid and I placed the highest bid on a toad with a pink ribbon and she named it Salicia. Our new amphibian friend didn't win, but it was still money well spent.

On Tour

PPO

On the long delays during the plane ride home, I thought a lot about why that exchange had upset me so much. No one should be unprotected against that kind of horror. It is heartbreaking that sections of our community aren't shocked by stories like that because it's an ongoing reality. It's not enough to feel bad. I used my time in the air to pen a letter to my federal member and to make a list of organisations where I could volunteer my time or my skills. Maybe we can't fix every problem, but if we are all doing what we can, it has to be a start.

So all in all my friend, a holiday in the sun, quality time with the kid and revelation. Not bad for 10 days in Far North QLD. Thanks again for the bed!

Love Chloe.

RT L O C

BUY LOCAL

AL

SU

AL

You have lived here for years now, and it always felt so far away, but 2 quick plane trips from Newcastle Airport, and here we are in heaven. I always pictured Townsville as an army town, and

We spent the day with the wind in our hair and our hair in our mouths and the kid could not have been happier. Driving through the hills, it felt a lot like Hawaii without the loud American tourists. Being animal lovers, we headed straight for Bungalow Bay Koala Village. The only resort in Australia with its own wildlife park, we cuddled a Koala, nursed a baby croc and had 30 rainbow lorikeets descend from the trees and eat directly from our hands.

C

The kid and I have just spent the most amazing 10 days staying at your house in Townsville. It occurred to me while I was soaking up the mid-winter sun at your dining room table that house sitting during your overseas trip has allowed me 3 of the 4 real holidays I have had since starting my business 10 years ago. Bless you and your incurable travel bug.

RT L O

My dearest friend,

I know when you live somewhere you don't always take advantage of it's best features because life gets busy, but you have paradise just a 20 min ferry ride from your front door! Magnetic Island was a highlight, particularly for the kid.

Although the land mass is only 12km wide and public transport will get you anywhere you need to go, we decided to spoil ourselves and rented a pink convertible!

PPO

BY CHLOE SULLIVAN - Intrepid Travelling Mum and Chief-Blogger at ontourwiththekid.freeblog.site

there are certain elements of that, being a block away from Jezzine Military Barracks and seeing more people in uniform than usual when you duck out to get your morning coffee. I underestimated how beautiful it is.

SU

WITH THE KID LETTER TO A FRIEND

Our last full day in Townsville happen to follow the airing of the 4 Corners story Australia's Shame, detailing abuse at the Don Dale detention centre. As we sat in the park eating our fish and chips in a cone from the best takeaway in town Rock, Paper, Scissors, two aboriginal women sat at the table next to us. The story had obviously been a topic of discussion in their office that morning as I heard one woman say to the other "I don't know why people are so shocked, it's not like its new information." The truth of that took my breath away. Facing away from them I felt myself start to cry.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 49

L to R: Matt Hunt, Matt Corner, Declan Egan and Simon Bailey in Jersey Boys.

Credit: Brinkhoff & Möge.

“Going to Hunter School of Performing Arts was amazing because I was surrounded by other creative friends who are now also working in the industry and creating new work.

“We all encouraged each other and were inspired by our wonderful teachers to create and play with new ideas.

“I think I have a lot to offer because at that early age I was acting and experimenting with new things.

“I feel the confidence that school instilled in us has made me fearless when it comes to acting.”

Fearless or not, that doesn’t stop him from admitting to feeling a few butterflies in the stomach before he goes on stage!

“I still do get nervous,” he said.

“We’re talking about live theatre you know, every night is different, and you never know what could happen.

“That’s exciting but also makes the nerves reappear most nights.”

Balancing out the nerves, of course, is Egan’s intimate knowledge of the role, born out of his experiences both in the UK and Australia.

“I’ve definitely grown into Bob. The show sees him through a lifetime so I think the grounded, older side comes more naturally now,” he said.

From Broadmeadow to West End...

Declan Egan WORDS: MICHELLE MEEHAN

Bob Gaudio was 19-years-old when he got his first real break in the music business.

One of the founding members of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, the teenage singer-songwriter penned the song “Sherry” 15 minutes before a group rehearsal in 1962.

Several months later it became their first - of many - #1 hits, with the group going on to become one of the most successful bands in pop history.

So it seems only fitting that Novocastrian actor Declan Egan’s first real break also came at the age of 19 after he was selected to portray Gaudio in an Australian version of the international smash hit musical Jersey Boys.

The former Hunter School of Performing Arts student had been auditioning for productions for several months before he secured one of the lead roles in the show, which charts the remarkable true story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and their rise to stardom from the wrong side of the tracks.

He made his professional theatre debut with Jersey Boys in November 2011 and spent more than a year touring with the production around Australia and New Zealand.

Fast forward five years and it is the role of Gaudio that has once again marked a career milestone for Egan, with the now 25-year-old fulfilling a long-held dream to tread the boards in one of the world’s most renowned theatre districts – London’s West End. Joining the cast of the long-running UK version of the production in March this year was a real “pinch me” moment 50 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

“I got this role when I was 19, I’m now 25 so naturally with age, experience and growing confidence I understand the role and myself as a performer more. for Egan – the show first opened in London at the Prince Edward Theatre in 2008 and has been at its current location at the Piccadilly Theatre for more than two years.

It celebrated its 8th anniversary in London in April this year and with no end to audiences’ demand to see it in sight, the show recently extended its booking period at the Theatre until April 2017, releasing 250,000 new tickets.

Worldwide, the show has been seen by more than 23 million people – a fact that Egan told intouch Magazine still blows his mind.

“The most enjoyable part of this job is telling this story to the audience, giving them a great night! Their faces at the end of the show and at stage door are so joyous and to realise you were part of that experience for them is pretty fulfilling.”

It’s little wonder audiences leave on such a high, with the show packed with a string of hit songs from Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, including Beggin’, Sherry, Walk Like A Man, December, 1963 (Oh What a Night), Big Girls Don’t Cry, My Eyes Adored You, Let’s Hang On (To What We’ve Got), Bye Baby, Can’t Take My Eyes Off You, Working My Way Back to You, Fallen Angel, Rag Doll and Who Loves You.

Performing so many songs each night can also take its toll “When I sit down to think about it, it actually feels pretty surreal,” on the actors, with Egan very conscious about keep his voice in optimum condition. But he said sticking to a strict regime he said. is a small sacrifice he is more than willing to make for what “Every night the crowds are dancing and taken on a journey continues to be a thrilling ride. because of this slick amazing show and I’m so grateful that I “It can be exhausting,” he said. get to be a part of it.

“We all have our own rituals. I try to make sure I’m sleeping well “I’m absolutely loving it! It’s very exciting to be a part of such a big, thriving theatre community (and I’m) very proud to be flying - eight hours at least every night. I also keep talking during the day to a minimum and I drink mass amounts of water before the Australian flag on the West End stage.” the show.

The glitz and glamour of the West End is certainly a long way from Egan’s childhood in Newcastle, where he first started to explore his love of acting and music after moving to Cardiff Heights at the age of nine.

“I was always interested in performing and the arts,” he said.

“My parents enrolled me at Young People’s Theatre for classes and I adored it. Eventually, I started getting involved in their productions and my love continued to grow and grow from there.”

Egan’s school years also fuelled this passion before later studying Voice at the Newcastle Conservatorium of Music and going on to hone his craft at the National Institute of Dramatic Art (NIDA), completing a Diploma of Music Theatre.

“I have always been interested in stories, acting and music!

When I discovered musical theatre it seemed perfect for me as it marries everything I love into a wonderfully joyous experience,” he said.

I would say the most challenging aspect of my job as an actor is the sacrifices I have made to make it to this level and every now and then feeling homesick.

“But I do love what I do! I really am so grateful for this opportunity! I hope being in the West End opens up options for me to travel as an actor and tell stories and perform all over the world.”

Newcastle beaches and pools Season guide Beach lifeguard patrols Newcastle Beach 7.00 am to 5.30 pm

24 September 2016 to 25 April 2017

Stockton Beach 9.00 am to 5.30 pm

Lifeguard Nobby

24 September 2016 to 25 April 2017

Bar Beach, Nobbys Beach and Merewether Beach 9.00 am to 5.30 pm

24 September 2016 to 30 October 2016

7.00 am to 5.30 pm

31 October 2016 to 19 March 2017

9.00 am to 5.30 pm

20 March 2017 to 25 April 2017

8.00 am to 4.30 pm

26 April 2017 to 22 September 2017

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS of Water Safety Education

Dixon Park Beach 9.00 am to 5.30 pm

24 September 2016 to 30 October 2016

7.00 am to 5.30 pm

31 October 2016 to 19 March 2017

9.00 am to 5.30 pm

20 March 2017 to 25 April 2017

Beaches are patrolled on Saturdays, Sundays and Public Holidays by Surf Lifesaving Clubs for 30 weeks from 24 September 2016 to 25 April 2017.

Ocean baths lifeguard patrols Merewether Ocean Baths Merewether Baths are patrolled from 9.00 am to 5.30 pm from 24 September 2016 until 25 April 2017.

"Surfboard riding had become popular and there were some problems with surfers going into the flags and losing their boards and hitting swimmers," John Young said.

Newcastle Ocean Baths 24 September 2016 to 25 April 2017

8.00 am to 4.30 pm

26 April 2017 to 22 September 2017

"And we thought the best way to inform the children was to go around the schools and let them know about beach safety.

View the ocean baths cleaning schedules on the Council’s website.

The baths are closed during cleaning.

"John Barret, who was secretary to George Baddley, the city engineer for many years, was heavily involved and was the one who got in touch with the Department of Education, and it went from there.

Beresfield Swimming Centre Opening hours

31 October 2016 to 19 March 2017 20 March 2017 to 23 April 2017

Mon - Fri 6am - 6pm

"When we started we had no equipment we just took a bathe-between-the-flags sign and went through general water safety and other basics from don't throw sand or dig holes."

Sat - Sun 9am - 3pm Mon - Fri 6am - 6pm Sat - Sun 8am - 5pm Mon - Fri 6am - 6pm Sat - Sun 9am - 3pm

2433AUG16

24 September 2016 to 30 October 2016

"I'd like to congratulate Kevin and John on starting a fine Novocastrian tradition and thank all the lifeguards who have been involved over the years."

The Water Safety presentations include videos covering beach, pool and open-water safety, along with posters and banners containing key water safety messages.

Newcastle City Council is celebrating 50 years of its Water Safety Education Program this year.

Sticker sheets and other promotional materials The program educates children about water help reinforce safety messages. The water safety and equips them with the knowledge to safety education program is free to schools stay safe in pools, surf and open water. and community groups. For more information, It all began in the winter of 1966 when two visit www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au beach inspectors, Kevin Mongan of Nobbys Beach, and John Young of Newcastle, began visiting schools in the Newcastle area to teach students how to stay safe at the beach.

All beaches are patrolled during the summer surfing season from 24 September 2016 until 25 April 2017. Nobbys, Bar Beach and Merewether Beach are patrolled all year round.

9.00 am to 5.30 pm

"Who knows how many lives they, and subsequent generations of lifeguards, saved by imparting safety messages to local kids?

For more information visit:

www.newcastle.nsw.gov.au

Initially, lifeguards mostly taught high school pupils, but when variable timetables saw them teaching some kids twice, they switched to primary schools.

By the second year, Mr. Young and Mr. Mongan were delivering the program to more than 6,000 pupils.

Today the lessons include both pool and open water safety and are delivered annually to more than 14,000 primary-aged kids at more than 50 schools across the Newcastle area.

"Fifty years is a wonderful milestone for such an important education initiative," Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said.

WATER SAFETY IS FOR EVERYONE!

Here are o ur top water safety tips.

BEACH SAFETY •Never swim alone •Before you enter the water, check the conditions •If unsure, ask a lifeguard for help •Look for safety signs - they will tell you what to look out for •Always swim between the red and yellow flags. No flags = no swim •If you get into trouble in the water, stay calm, try to float, put your hand up and yell for help POOL SAFETY •Before you enter the water, check the water depth; never dive in shallow water •Obey the signs: no diving, bombing, dunking, running or jumping •Never swim alone •If you get into trouble in the water, stay calm, try to float, put your hand up and yell for help Open water safety •Don't swim in water if you can't see the bottom •Stay away from drains •Never swim in fast-moving water •Call ‘000’ if you’re in trouble www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 51

2433-Beaches Pool and Ocean Baths_InTouch Magazine_SEPTEMBER_PRINT AD 129x293mm_v2.indd 1 15/08/2016 4:11 PM

Non-woven wallpapers are easy to use. They are made from synthetic and natural fibres which make them easy to clean and also breathable. They will peel off the wall dry and you don’t need to soak them. Design options are also endless.

HOME //

WORDS: DEBORAH BARTLETT + CHRIS WILLIAMS insideout Newcastle “No way not wallpaper” I hear you say! People who would normally say no to wallpaper are re-thinking the benefits and looking at the many options available.

Wallpapers of old were difficult to remove but today’s wallpapers are an entirely different proposition – they are an exciting and an easy option that can change the mood of any room. Wallpaper adds colour, design and character to a home and is an excellent way to cover up imperfections.

Murals are also a great way to bring the outside in. You can sit and look at a jetty going out to a lake, or imagine you are waking up on the beach or anywhere in the world you want to be. It is possible also to have a favourite holiday shot papered on a wall. The mood and choice are yours.

Period homes come alive when wallpaper is used correctly, as wallpaper was historically an intrinsic part of these homes.

Many options are available to suit this era and will serve to enhance and build on the homes character and personality.

For something different try grass cloth - this type of wallpaper has been around for many years but is actually making a comeback. Beautiful colours and metallic threads are woven through them give many looks to choose from. This wallpaper adds another dimension of texture to otherwise bland rooms.

Natural shades will add warmth and depth to a room and the metallic threads will make a bedroom look and feel luxurious and glamorous.

I hope I have enticed you to be curious about what wallpaper can offer to a room. Ask for advice and you will be surprised.

Drop into our showroom today – we are always happy to provide advice and point you in the right direction.

Large geometrics or bold patterns used in a room will be a focal point and a feature of the room - you will not need to fill the space with a lot of pieces. The pattern will be enough to create an attractive minimalistic space. Choose one colour from the design and use this in the form of a cushion or accessory to complement the wallpaper and let the wallpaper be the focus.

Metallic colours will enhance a neutral palette, so choosing wallpaper with a glamorous touch of gold, silver or bronze will add a luxurious essence to a bedroom or living room. Metallic colours will enable you to indulge in a generous dose of luxury without spending a fortune.

Do you want to add some concrete or bricks to a feature wall?

Digital imagery will have you touching the walls to see if they are real. On our website we have an image bank of designs that are made to measure so you don’t see a pattern repeat – check them out at www.insideoutstyle.com.au.

Unmistakable Proportions.

The Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake, conceived for people who will settle for no less than the exceptional: enough space so that when on the move they always have enough room, and a powerfully expressive design to set themselves apart from the mainstream in the city.

MBA8773

Jump into Spring with a Wall of Flowers

You can enhance the mood of a room immediately and quickly with the right wallpaper choice. A beautiful image of a flower will give you the feeling of spring every day – even if it is a dreary day outside. Forget the old fashioned floral patterns we can all remember in our grandmother’s living rooms. Images of one beautiful flower and many different floral designs are available to suit a variety of interiors from soft and romantic to bright and cheerful. A digital picture of a flower or a whole landscape can easily be applied to a feature wall.

Prefer Timber? That’s another option, and many designs are available that when used well can bring a feeling of natural warmth and texture to the room.

CLA Shooting Brake DEMONSTRATORS FROM

Excludes AMG variants & CLA Facelift. ^Drive away price for CLA 200 Shooting Brake.

Hunter Star Motors 1 Pacific Highway, Bennetts Green NSW 2290, Tel (02) 4974 4244, www.mbnewcastle.com.au, Lic No 18100 52 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

$55,888^ Drive Away

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

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

Look no further than Wildflower Giftware!

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

262 Macquarie Road, Warners Bay NSW 2282 • PH 4953 7390 • www.w characteristic opening between the backrest and the integral head restraints.

MOTORING //

All engine options have an ECO start/stop function, which switches off the engine temporarily when the vehicle is stationary. Even greater driving efficiency can be achieved with the help of the standard-fit ECO display which indicates how economically the vehicle is being driven at any given moment.

This information can be used to help the driver adopt a driving style which provides for optimum fuel consumption in the given driving situation.

The CLA is equipped with Collision Prevention Assist Plus as standard. This system gives the driver a visual warning about an insufficient distance to vehicles in front. If the distance continues to decrease, an acoustic warning is additionally sounded. If the driver brakes, the Adaptive Brake Assist can build up precisely the braking power required to prevent a collision wherever possible. If there is no reaction from the driver, in the event of an impending rear-end collision the Collision Prevention Assist Plus system can perform autonomous partial braking in order to prevent a collision or lessen its consequences.

Designed for Urban Hunting Sporty design combined with generous spaciousness. The sporty design of the Mercedes-Benz CLA Shooting Brake is an energetic, self-assured look, underscored by the strikingly moulded bonnet.

Typical for the CLA Shooting Brake are its tension-laden roofline sweeping towards the rear and its athletic rear section with convex tailgate. Its striking lines interplaying with gently curved surfaces create the unique, fascinating light effects typical of Mercedes-Benz design.

The distinctive shoulder line muscle and the width-emphasising rear bumper lend the new CLA Shooting Brake an unmistakable look and give it a powerful appearance. Its greenhouse, lightly tapering towards the rear, coming to an end in a gently inclined tailgate with a broad rear window, supports the sporty effect of the vehicle width.

The continuance of design elements such as the dynamic sideline in the door panelling creates a link between the exterior and interior. The ergonomic cockpit with its modern ambience and high-value appeal provide the best conditions to experience sheer motoring enjoyment in the new CLA Shooting Brake.

The controls in the new CLA Shooting Brake deliver ergonomic operating comfort and reduce the strain on the driver. The most notable features of the interior include the free-standing central media display located in a position clearly visible to the driver, the 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel with twelve buttons and the sports seats with integrated head restraints and ergonomic lateral support.

The standard-fit sports seats at the front are characterised by particularly good side support. Distinguishing features are the high seat backs with triple horizontal fluting and a

The drowsiness detection system Attention Assist serves to enhance driving safety, in particular on long trips and during night-time driving. It monitors the driver’s steering behaviour to detect typical signs of drowsiness and severe loss of attention and gives a visual and audible warning of impending micro sleep.

The control system Adaptive Brake enhances ride comfort and safety. With the anti-lock braking system (ABS) as a base function, it helps the driver to master critical braking manoeuvres more safely, and also assists the driver with dayto-day convenience functions such as Hill-Start Assist.

Optional Distronic Plus proximity control helps to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front above all in stop-and-go traffic. The system is able to brake the vehicle automatically and subsequently accelerate again as appropriate to the traffic situation.

Hunter Star Mercedes-Benz currently have Demonstrator Opportunities across the CLA Shooting Brake range starting from just $55,888 drive away.

Contact Hunter Star Mercedes-Benz on 4974 4244 or visit their showroom at 1 Pacific Highway, Bennetts Green to arrange your exclusive test drive.

www.intouchmagazine.com.au | 53

Transforming for the Digital Age at Harper Property There can be little doubt that the real estate industry is currently undergoing a challenging and yet very exciting period as it endeavours to reshape itself to meet consumer demand and expectations in a constantly evolving digital environment.

In recent times we have seen how Uber has taken the traditional business model of the taxi industry apart and also witnessed how streaming has upended the traditional music retailing scene. Similarly, in the past decade or so, we have also seen how the amazing ability of the internet to match supply with demand has forced the real estate industry to adapt to the online world with more and more estate advertising migrating to the web.

One of the most important factors involved in selling a home is marketing it to potential buyers and in the contemporary real estate industry, there are currently more methods of marketing than ever before, thanks in no small part to the internet.

Today’s most efficient real estate agents are adept at traditional marketing yet are open to embracing new forms of advertising from blogging to social media. The most successful agents will also know how to sell your home once potential buyers come through the door, establish relationships, carry out market research, and assist in staging your house to make the most positive impression.

agency’s business model and to maximum effect. Those who are hesitant or slow to recognise this will be left behind.”

For Harper Property Agents, face to face business and the use of high-level online marketing in their advertising strategies is of utmost importance with the most successful marketing campaigns reflecting this diversity.

The firm advertises any properties for sale online nationally and also promote the company’s brand via large sign boards and on the small fleet of vehicles that are hard to miss when driving around town.

But for Neil, it is isn’t just the marketing and task-based parts of real estate that is due for a shake-up – the whole model needs a refresh and as a result, he is aiming for increased agent transparency, accountability and improved customer service within his own team.

Harper Property Agents is a local real estate agency, property management and strata firm that has brought a fresh approach Harper’s passionate group of real estate professionals are to the Newcastle real estate market and was amongst the highly trained in cutting-edge sales strategies and negotiation first to adapt their business to the benefits offered by new techniques, and pride themselves on going the extra mile to technologies. In the process, they have taken off their ties, secure the best possible deal for all their clients. discarded the stuffy suits, and thrown away traditional ways of thinking to introduce a new and energetic approach to real The internet has been a boon to the real estate sector and “Our agents provide value in two ways - first, by providing estate marketing that keeps pace with the challenges of the in today’s modern Information Age, an important channel for resources from their network, and secondly by guiding buyers those who wish to market their property to a massive audience. fast-moving modern market. and sellers through the steps required to complete the sale The internet never shuts down, can be accessed anywhere in Licensee Neil Harper has been quick to identify and respond to process. It is this local market knowledge along with their the world, and offers endless possibilities for communication. acquired network that is so incredibly valuable to both the changing market trends, doing away with the traditional shop It’s essentially a shop front that never closes and can be seller and buyer," says Neil. front in favour of more cost-efficient, technology driven and accessed at any time, in any place and for whatever reason. customer focused solutions to selling property.

"They will move mountains to help their clients achieve their The rise of online real estate sites has changed the nature "Australia’s real estate industry is heavily steeped in bricks-and- lifestyle aspirations or investment goals, but that doesn’t mean of the traditional real estate business model forever. Home mortar shop fronts with costly marketing techniques to match," they tell tall tales just to win new business. Instead, they are listings, complete with images and even virtual tours, are now far more interested in delivering real-world results and building said Neil. available to anyone with internet access. New DIY, property long-term relationships based on trust, open communication "In many ways, it’s an industry which has been slow to adapt to services, are now emerging to provide consumers with research and transparency." the digital modes of a modern clientèle." tools enabling them to easily compare property prices and With the business proudly headquartered in the Throsby Basin, identify street locations without the need to leave their home.

"As a result, we moved away from the traditional shop front with they service Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, and the window card displays and instead consider our shop front to be Here in Australia, house prices are on a constant upward greater Hunter region. our open homes where we have the opportunity to be in front of trend and buying a home is for many not only the dream but Harper Property Agents difference is that they take an our clients." the single biggest financial decision they’ll ever make. Sellers integrated approach to residential sales, property management are taking longer to choose a real estate agent to represent Our modern era is known as the "Information Age" - and for and strata, which means their business is geared to deliver them, and buyers are more cautious and seeking more good reason, as it’s now easy to find what you’re looking for a full-service solution to all their clients that is beyond information than ever before. Today’s vendors are looking for with the click of a button, with nine out of ten people using the comparison. knowledgeable agents who are focused on their needs. internet or social media to search for property according to the Whether you’re selling the family home, trading up, downsizing, Nielsen Online Australian Property Report.

According to one source, traditional real estate customers can looking for a tenant, or need help managing a growing take approximately 1.6 weeks to search for a property before “The impact of the internet has ’raised the bar’ in real estate – investment portfolio or strata title property, the Harper contacting a real estate agent and then a further 7 weeks creating opportunities for all parties involved - the agent, the Property Agents team has the expertise, enthusiasm and local working with the agency before finding their property. However, buyer and seller," said Neil. knowledge to ensure selling, leasing and managing your largest online consumers are now taking an average of 4.8 weeks asset becomes your greatest success.

"It remains a considerable force within the real estate sector conducting their research before making contact with a real that must be embraced, understood and used within the estate agent.

54 | www.intouchmagazine.com.au

Swing into Spring!

What’s My Property Worth?

Enquire NOW on 1300 626 111

harperpropertyagents.com enquiries@harperpropertyagents.com Level 2, 49 Annie Street, Wickham • 1/35 Alma Road, New Lambton

FROM ONE PIECE TO A WHOLE HOUSE, OUR INHOUSE DESIGNERS WILL HELP YOU FIND YOUR STYLE!

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