March 2023

FR EE

MAR | APR 2023

Kate Haberfield

Comfortable in her new surroundings

2023

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From the editor Summer’s come and gone, too quick for my liking, and autumn is now upon us.

But, the month of March not only heralds a new season, it turns the attention on the positive female role models in our lives, as well as the Hunter community.

Some might say International Women’s Day is just a token offering.

However, it’s way more important than that. I’m surrounded by inspirational females every day, from my mother to my daughter, from my amazing work colleagues to many other women I’ve had the pleasure of interviewing throughout the region. Each offers me something different, on a daily basis, but they’re all as equally important.

So, it’s fitting to feature someone like the delightful Kate Haberfield on the latest cover of the Newcastle Weekly.

We have watched her on our television screens for more than a decade, as she became a pioneer for female sports reporters.

For a journalist to be so highly-respected in the industry, as well as the community she serves, takes some doing.

But, Kate handled it with aplomb, while raising a family. Now, she’s ready for her next adventure… one which I’m sure will, again, draw much praise.

Until next month, keep smiling.

EDITOR Rod Thompson JOURNALISTS Rebecca Riddle, Rod Thompson PUBLISHER Nicole Shelley DESIGN & MARKETING Melanie Coggio, Sophie Kepreotes, Amber Sherwood COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Peter Stoop

ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP Isaac Whitten M. 0493 445 173 T. 02 4003 4448 advertise@newcastleweekly.com.au

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Contents News 8

THE HUNTER HEADS TO POLLS

Local residents have their say in NSW Election

ABOARD LIGHT RAIL PLAN 10 ALL Star-studded concerts enhance council's quest WINDS OF CHANGE 11 SUPPORTING Community input on offshore project welcomed

Community MAITLAND'S MARATHON MAN

12 Dillon Rinn clocks up the kilometres for charity

Business

43

INTO NEW OPPORTUNITIES 14 DRIVING East Coast Car Rentals sets up Newcastle headquarters ENERGY HITS CITY 15 RENEWED Gym on King set to flex its collective muscle

Entertainment APLENTY IN MARCH 16 ACTIVITIES What's On to keep everyone entertained this month LOVE OF ALL THINGS 'PETROL' 22 OUR Hoons take centre stage in Stories of our Town

Special feature ACE STILL ON THE BALL 24 TENNIS Jelena Dokic serves up a positive message WOMEN'S DAY 30 INTERNATIONAL Inspiring female role models in the spotlight

ON THE COVER Kate Haberfield with

daughter Aria, 10, and son Roman, 8, at their New Lambton home. See cover story, page 18.

NEED YOUR DAILY NEWS FIX? VISIT US ONLINE AT NEWCASTLEWEEKLY.COM.AU OR SCAN THE QR CODE.

6

Property PROFILE: MORISSET 34 SUBURB Postcode now a jewel in Lake Macquarie crown

35 PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

Newcastle East home redefines 'ocean front'

OF HOUSING 'REAL CONCERN' 40 LACK REINSW CEO says industry facing 'the perfect storm' newcastleweekly.com.au

Specialising in Family and Children's Law.

93 Hunter Street, Newcastle 02 4927 6315 www.nlslaw.com.au

NEWS

Hunter voters head to the polls Victoria Davies (Animal Justice Party),

Premier or can Chris Minns upset

Andrew Fenwick (Liberal Country Party),

the applecart?

Quintin King (Pauline Hanson’s One Nation)

We’ll get an answer to that question when

Charlestown: Jodie Harrison (Labor), Greg

Hunter voters head to the polls this month

Watkinson (Greens)

for the 2023 NSW Election on Saturday 25

Lake Macquarie: Greg Piper (Independent),

March.

Stephen Ryan (Labor), Kim Grierson (Greens),

NSW is divided into 93 state districts, with

Jason Lesage (Shooters Fishers and Farmers)

residents electing one person to represent

Maitland: Jenny Aitchison (Labor), Michael

their electorate in the Legislative Assembly.

Cooper (Liberals), Campbell Knox (Greens),

They’ll also vote for 21 of the 42 members

Neil Turner (PHON) Newcastle: Tim Crakanthorp (Labor),

of the Legislative Council.

Nominations, and registrations of

Thomas Triebsees (Liberals), John Mackenzie

candidates and groups, close at noon on

(Greens), Niko Leka (SA), Freya Taylor

Wednesday 8 March.

(Sustainable Australia Party)

The all-important ballot draw takes place less than 24 hours later (10am).

Port Stephens: Kate Washington (Labor), Jordan Jensen (Greens), Michelle

(Greens), Callum Blair (SAP), Dale

Buckmaster (AJP), Jacqueline George,

McNamara (Independent), Archie Lea

print, more than 40 locals had put their hand

Angela Ketas (IMOP), Mark Watson (PHON)

(Independent), James White (SFF)

up to represent their respective community.

Swansea: Yasmin Catley (Labor), Megan

Wallsend: Sonia Hornery (Labor), Callum Pull

Anderson (Liberals), Heather Foord (Greens),

(Liberals), Rebecca Watkins (Greens), Pietro

Alan Ellis (SAP)

Di Girolamo (PHON), Joshua Starrett

And, as the Newcastle Weekly went to

CANDIDATES Cessnock: Clayton Barr (Labor), Ash

Upper Hunter: Dave Layzell (Nationals),

Barnham (Nationals), Llynda Nairn (Greens),

Peree Watson (Labor), Tony Lonergan

The early voting period opens on Saturday 18 March.

•

Vote 1 John Mackenzie

for Newcastle

s

Build 6,500 affordable homes in Newcastle

s Take back public ownership

of Newcastle's public transport

s

s

s

Fix Stockton Beach erosion

s

Levy fossil fuel producers pay to fix climate disasters

Freeze rents for two years

Make public schools, TAFE and Universities free

Vote Greens in the Upper House

s

Fix the planning system

Change is within reach

Lynda-June Coe, Cate Faerhmann, Dr Amanda Cohn Authorised by Graham Whittall for Greens NSW Newcastle, 21 Gordon Ave Hamilton 2303.

8

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

W

ill Dominic Perrottet remain

Calls for bar staff, security to undergo drink spiking training as soon as possible to achieve its goal.

The timeframe for the petition, which requires 20,000 signatures in order for it to be debated in the Legislative Assembly, ends on 25 May. What Were You Wearing? founder Sarah

PHOTOGRAPHY UNSPLASH ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

Williams said the proposed training program – covering drink spiking and sexual violence prevention, response and reporting – would be developed in consultation with industry stakeholders and experts in the field, as well as survivors.

“I believe it’s a matter of importance,” she stated. “Such initiatives, as the one we’re proposing, are essential for ensuring the safety of people in licenced venues

A

Newcastle-based not-for-profit

and for preventing sexual violence in What Were You Wearing? is calling on the

the community.

organisation has launched a

NSW Government to implement measures

petition requesting security and bar

to protect patrons in all licenced venues

growing problem of drink spiking and sexual

throughout the state.

violence in those premises.So, we are asking

staff undergo mandatory drink spiking and sexual violence training.

newcastleweekly.com.au

But, the group needs strong local support

“We cannot ignore the serious and

the NSW Parliament to take urgent action."

•

9

NEWS

Sir Elton, Pink enhance council’s quest to extend light rail network

N

ewcastle’s ability to draw globallyrecognised artists to the region should aid its cause to enhance the

light rail network in the city.

With almost 50,000 people converging John’s dazzling concerts, the issues of traffic congestion and parking options reared their ugly heads again.

But, following the news pop powerhouse Pink is now heading to town on 13 February in 2024, council hopes that announcement could leverage a better deal with the NSW Government to rectify those concerns – and expand the existing tram services.

Currently, light rail only operates between Newcastle Interchange, at Wickham, and big-sized crowds. However, concerts can be

Newcastle Beach at the east end.

And, it’s a situation Lord Mayor Nuatali

slightly different," she said.

“Patrons often come from out of the area

Nelmes is keen to fix moving forward.

“McDonald Jones Stadium is obviously a regular site for sporting fixtures that attract

or want to do other social activities before, or after, the event.

“With the upcoming election in March, having that light rail link extended out to this precinct is a priority.

“It would be ideal to get that connection between the CBD and here - permanently."

•

Lake Mac. It’s time for a Household Chemical CleanOut You can drop off for free:

Do you love to sing?

Garden and household chemicals

Motor oils, fluids and fuels

Poisons

Fluoro lights

Batteries

Gas bottles and fire extinguishers

Paint

New Members Night Souths Leagues Club 46 Llewellin Street, Merewether Monday 27 March, 7pm

Smoke detectors

Only household quantities accepted (20L or 20kg), except paint and household batteries.

Up to 100L (in 20L containers) of paint and up to 10kg of household batteries accepted.

Novatones, Newcastle’s premier men’s singing group, is looking for new members.

Your next local event:

A four week learn to sing program will follow the New Members Night.

Saturday 18 March 2023, 9am – 3.30pm Rathmines Boat Ramp - off Dorrington Road, Rathmines www.cleanout.com.au

Brought to you by the NSW Environment Protection Authority, supported by Paintback, the national product stewardship scheme for unwanted paint and packaging.

10

®

FURTHER INFORMATION: Novatones.org.au | Info@novatones.org.au Call Brian on 0400406114 See QR code for more details.

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

on McDonald Jones Stadium to see Sir Elton

Community to have its say on $10 billion offshore wind project be located between 10 kilometres and PHOTOGRAPHY NICHOLAS DOHERTY, UNSPLASH ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

30 kilometres off the coast, due to the Department of Defence’s (DoD) request.

“It will provide up to eight gigawatts of power, which is a lot, compared to an average power station,” Mr Bowen said.

“That’s enough for six million homes, so it’s a big deal.

“As an economic driver, we’re talking about directly employing 4,800 jobs in construction and 2,400 ongoing.

“So, it’s absolutely vital for our clean energy future – and that of the Hunter.

“We’ll weigh up environmental factors,

C

while the proponents must go through

hris Bowen firmly believes the Hunter

environmentalists to community groups – to

being home to a world-class offshore

participate in the consultation process for

wind farm is a “great opportunity” for

the recently-unveiled $10 billion project.

the region.

The 5,000-square-kilometre “zone”,

stringent approvals, too.

“We will consider marine life, bird life and all the impacts. Everything will be factored in when we deliver the original zone.

Which is why the Minister for Climate

located in the Pacific Ocean, extends from

“So, it’s a real, genuine [consultation]

Change and Energy implores everyone

Norah Head in the south to Port Stephens

process. The Hunter should be assured it’ll

– from residents to business owners,

in the north. Turbines are expected to

be heard."

•

Be part of the improvement loop!

We listen

Share your voice

Create change

newcastleweekly.com.au

Your opinion matters.

Take the Local Voices survey:

pwcs.com.au/survey

11

COMMUNITY

Dillon Rinn pushes through the pain barrier for a great cause "I've always wanted to do something; it was just a matter of taking the initiative to do so."

“So, I came into this very underprepared.

“I was averaging 40-45km a week.

“Then a month out, I moved it up to 60-65km.

“To go from that to 350km a week, your body will ask itself ‘what’s going on here?’

“And, to be honest, it quickly broke down about day three.

“I continued to battle with that until day 25 – where the Achilles was just swollen, it was difficult to walk and hard to put my socks on.

S

on a daily basis.

Maitland resident Dillon Rinn is a little bit crazy.

And, Beyond Blue is all the better for Rinn’s

During that time, he endured stifling 38-degree heat, gusty winds and

But, the majority believes he’s a “local

heavy rainfall.

legend” after taking on the incredible

determination.

“I guess that’s the reason I was never going to pull the pin once I started,” he said.

However, his selfless expedition finally

“In my head, if I stop, the donations dry up.

challenge of running 50km each day for

ended late last month at the Maitland

50 days – 2,500km in total over summer – to

Regional Athletics Centre in front of his

raise awareness and funds for Beyond Blue.

supporters and plenty of well-wishers.

“I’ve always wanted to do something; it

“I guess I pushed myself through the

was just a matter of taking the initiative to

The 28-year-old began his journey at Aberglasslyn’s McKeachies Oval on 1

pain barrier,” Rinn said.

do so.

January… and he became a recognisable

“Before I started, you don’t quite realise

figure at the venue completing lap-after-lap

exactly what your body is going to endure.

Stop consider

and

12

“As an individual, I have an opportunity – as does everyone – to do better in my life.

“I thought now’s a better time than ever,” he added with a laugh.

•

Check the facts this State election elections.nsw.gov.au newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

“Thankfully, I came through the other side.”

ome people, like myself, might say

Whatever your story, whatever your needs, we have an aged care service for you.

Visit catholicheathcare.com.au/newcastle or call 1300 849 968

BUSINESS

East Coast Car Rentals revved up

N

ewcastle has become the newest location to welcome an East Coast Car Rentals branch.

Already popular at a dozen locations

across the eastern seaboard, Cairns and Adelaide, the new site on Hunter Street is the first to house the brand outside a capital city.

The recent expansion is thanks to a growing leisure and corporate car rental industry that has seen the fleet's numbers double in the past 12 months.

East Coast Car Rentals Newcastle director of sales Roberto Mignanelli says Hunter Street

(From left) Roberto Mignanelli – Sales Director, Kirsty Phillips – NSW Manager, Dan Gardoll – Newcastle Branch Manager, Dan Kearney - CEO.

is proving to be the perfect home for the newest venture.

“We are expanding and as Australia’s seventh largest city, yet also a regional location, Newcastle was the next logical

Roberto says he has learned car rentals

surrounds, but it also offers an opportunity to

step for us," he said.

are about more than just holiday vehicle

support the local community and businesses

lending.

of Newcastle," he said.

“The location is central to the CBD, near our major hotels, and is a short

“This exciting new venture provides

And, its commitment to community is

walking distance to Newcastle’s main train

fresh opportunity to showcase our award-

paying off, with East Coast Car Rentals voted

exchange."

winning services to leisure travellers who are

Australia’s Best Car Rental Service for the

seeking to explore the beautiful city and its

past two years.

With 20 years' experience in the industry,

•

NEWCASTLE

NOW OPEN East Coast Car Rentals Newcastle 849 Hunter Street, Newcastle West

849 Hunter Street, Newcastle West Hybrid & Electric Vehicles Corporate Car Rental Car Subscription Plans Family, Full Size SUVs, Utes & 8 Seater Vans

14

1800 028 881 eastcoastcarrentals.com.au

newcastleweekly.com.au

Gym's off kilter but full of energy

T

hat’s the best way to describe the

and built a multi-functional space we want

new gym opening up in the CBD.

people to feel comfortable in.

The Gym on King sits in the

Newcastle’s first mixed-use development at

“It’s not about who is the prettiest or biggest.

291 King Street, the building with the veins

“We want this space to be about a

on its façade representative of the renewed

community you want to be a part of.

energy that is hitting town.

The owners have promised to do things a

“Life can be way too serious sometimes, so let’s have some fun.”

little differently.

So, alongside their state-of-the-art

The development will also be home to a long day childcare centre, boast 50

equipment and integrated technology

boutique-serviced apartments available for

pieces, the developers and design team

short-to-medium term stays and three floors

have paid homage to the foundations of

of A grade commercial office space totalling

the past with its vintage styling and kept

some 7000sqm.

the feel “all-inclusive” with their choice of messaging.

The team is currently seeking a café/bar operator who they believe will be the heart

“291 King Street was home to Gibson’s

and soul of this integrated mixed-use facility.

British Iron Foundry, where ‘Men of steel

“We are looking for that special hospitality

as being the tenant to tie it all collectively.”

Foundation memberships will be offered

worked with steel’, where there was

team, who is keen to grow as we do and

soon, so jump onto the Gym on King social

‘machinery of the most modern type’

unafraid to be innovative,” owner and

pages and follow the progress.

and where the Gibson family continuously

developer Darren Nicholson said.

In fact, the first 500 to join will go into the

innovated products to meet the needs of the

“We’re working hard to bring the best in

draw to win a FITBENCH (a game-changing

Newcastle community,” manager Kate said.

class together to create something special

all-in-one home workout piece like nothing

for Newcastle and we see the café operator

you have seen before).

“We’ve been inspired by their stories

•

24 hour gym sauna myzone group classes outdoor / indoor space

coming soon live in your space. train in ours.

newcastleweekly.com.au

15

WHAT'S ON OUR MARKET GUIDE

SATURDAY 11 MARCH

The Glendale Farmers & Artisans Market 7am to 1.30pm every Saturday, Glendale Shopping Centre car park.

What’s On

The Medowie Markets 8am and 12.30pm, Bull ‘N Bush Motel.

Cooler nights and shorter days - Autumn brings with it a new relaxed palette and a range of events that will have you eating, drinking, exploring and shopping in comfortable temperatures.

THURSDAY 9 MARCH

SUNDAY 26 MARCH

2023 Newcastle 500 Supercars various

Hunter Memory Walk and Jog Speers Point

events, various locations, festival launches

Park from 7am to 11am.

SUNDAY 12 MARCH Made & Found Markets 10am to 2pm at Webb Park, Redhead.

Newcastle City Famers Market 7am to 1pm every Saturday throughout March at Newcastle Showground, Broadmeadow.

with Driver Signing Event at Gregson Park, Hamilton from 4.30pm to 7pm.

THURSDAY 30 MARCH

Newcastle Fringe Festival various locations

Port to Port Hunter Valley, Lake Macquarie,

in Newcastle until Sunday 19 March.

Newcastle, until Sunday 2 April.

FRIDAY 10 MARCH

FRIDAY 31 MARCH

Equestrian in the Vines Crowne Plaza Hunter

Sip and Savour Speers Point Park, Speers

Valley, Friday 8am-5pm, Saturday 8am-5pm

Point, until Sunday 2 April.

SATURDAY 18 MARCH

SATURDAY 1 APRIL

Warners Bay Markets 9am to 2pm Foreshore Reserve, The Esplanade, Warners Bay.

& Sunday 8am-4pm, until Sunday 12 March.

SUNDAY 12 MARCH

Newcastle Food Month various Newcastle

Charlie’s Run 4 Kids 2023 Lydon Oval,

eateries until 30 April.

Dudley, from 11am to 6pm.

Newcastle Writers’ Festival Newcastle until

SUNDAY 19 MARCH

Sunday 2 April.

Homegrown Markets 10am to 2pm Speers Point Park.

Wine Machine Dalwood Estate Dalwood

SUNDAY 2 APRIL

SUNDAY 26 MARCH

3pm to 11pm

Hill to Harbour Newcastle

Markets on the Green 9am to 1pm at Club Lambton

SATURDAY 18 MARCH

Drag & Dine Brunch Goldfish Bar & Restaurant, Roche Estate, Hunter Valley

FRIDAY 7 APRIL

11am to 1pm.

2023 Australian National Band

FRIDAY 24 MARCH Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival Kurri Kurri until Sunday 26 March.

SATURDAY 25 MARCH Hunter Valley Air Show Cessnock Airport until Sunday 26 March.

16

Championships Newcastle until Monday 10 April.

SATURDAY 8 APRIL

SATURDAY 1 APRIL The Olive Tree Market 9am to 2pm, Civic Park, Newcastle The Marina Market 4pm to 8pm, Nelson Bay foreshore

Archibald Prize 2023 launch MAC yapang until Sunday 21 May.

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR OUR EXTENSIVE WEEKLY MARKET GUIDE.

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY KURRI KURRI NOSTALGIA FESTIVAL; HOMEGROWN MARKETS; HANDMADE IN THE HUNTER ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

Handmade in the Hunter 9am to 2pm every Saturday throughout March, Sobels Wines, Pokolbin.

KISSTORY - THE AUSTRALIAN KISS TRIBUTE SHOW Sat 11th

󻁀󻁀 Mr James Band

A fantastic night of 50s to 80s Rock N Roll entertainment from this 5 piece band, with a great dance floor.

$20 penr perso S

BOOKINGAL ESSENTI

Fri 24th March – 8pm till 10:30pm (Doors open at 7:30pm)

Hot Rod Walt & band (direct from Atlanta

March, 7:30pm

COMEDY FOR A CAUSE

Saturday 18th March, 7pm, TICKETS $30 with Peter Berner, Brett Nichols and Daniel Townes

Georgia USA) SAt 25th March – 7:30PM

BINGO Mondays 7pm. Tues, Wed & Thurs 11am

Tribute Show featuring Jumpin Jukebox

RAFFLES Every Thursday,

Pink Cadillac FRI 31ST March – 7:30PM

BLUEWATER COWBOYS

Sun 25th March – 5pm till 9pm $10 per person

Friday 6:30pm and Sunday 6pm

Sunday 12th March, 2pm

ALL TICKETS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE

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17

LOREM IPSUM

Our Kate INTERVIEW & ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE PHOTOGRAPHY PETER STOOP

18

newcastleweekly.com.au

COVER STORY

“I had to take any opportunity to show that I knew what I was doing.” but entering the male-dominated world of sports reporting was a whole other ball game.

“It was hard. It was very hard,” she admits.

“I definitely had to fight for it and I think at the time I didn’t understand why because I thought ‘I can do this, I've shown I can’.

“Even some of the men who went before me said they were embarrassed that they had been given the role before me.

“I think it was just being the first is difficult.

Change is tough.”

The knockbacks taught Kate to be stronger.

“Everything happens for a reason,” she Kate Haberfield with husband Aaron and Aria and Roman

E

arlier this year, Kate Haberfield farewelled a television career that saw her

says.

“It was so hard but that made me better. It made me tougher.

“Once I earned respect in the community and in sporting clubs it started to turn around and it became something they might

Kate’s last day at NBN was Sunday 20 January 2023.

consider.

“You think about it. You're at a press

When she walked away from what had

conference with the Knights for example

become the first and only

become her second home for half of her

and any male journalists who's there says

female sports presenter in

20s and almost all of her 30s, she knew the

‘mate’ and it automatically disarms the

NBN’s 60-year history. After

timing was right.

player they’re interviewing. Women can’t do

14 years of being the face of sport on our

“Sports journalism was something I’d

that as easily.

TV screens each night, the mother-of-two

always wanted to do, it was just a long, really

is launching herself into a new challenge

winding path and a lot of hard work to get

into that world, and there haven't been

away from the cameras, but for the people

there,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.

many, that you just have to know twice the

of Newcastle she'll always be “Our Kate”.

A lot of that hard work was proving she

You only need to type the name Kate

knew her subject matter, despite being a

Haberfield into any online search engine and invariably the first thing that pops up involves her leaving NBN. However, she’s okay with knowing that’s what Novocastrians want to know.

After almost two decades of being seen and heard on screens and radio waves

woman.

“It took a while. It wasn’t anything that had been done before (a woman presenting sport), so it was natural that anytime anyone left, the next male stepped in,” Kate says.

“It just went that way for so long. I don’t know why.

“I always said to every woman who came

information to get half the respect.”

Her hard work and determination did pay off and, hopefully, she has paved the way for future female sports journalists.

“I’m very proud to have that little piece of history with NBN,” she says.

“The presenting side was always my favourite part.

“I liked voicing stories, it came naturally

across the Hunter, Canberra and Sydney,

“It took persistence. I had to take any

to me, I’d always loved it, so that was my

the 39-year-old is comfortable with people

opportunity to show that I knew what I was

favourite part of the day, that 15 minutes,

thinking of her as extended family.

doing.”

that adrenaline, that telling stories.

“Yes, I still get people wave and say, ‘Hi Kate’ - I'm sure there are some people who think I’m just on holidays and that I’ll be back soon,” she laughs. newcastleweekly.com.au

Kate boasts a journalism career that spans 20 years.

She has played sport, watched sport and written about sport for most of her life,

“I know how important it is to the community as well, because it was important to me growing up.

“We used to sit around the TV at my Nan’s 19

“I've loved Newcastle sports since I'd go to Knights' games as a child with my grandad.”

finally ran out. It’s the coldest place on earth

my colleague used to tease me because he

in the winter but we’d sit under the blanket

got cut out of the photo.

with a hot chocolate that my Nan had packed… and it was the best.

“I'd get in trouble for waving my flag a bit too enthusiastically, I just loved it.”

It’s Newcastle’s “other” code that has since turned her blood blue and red.

“Soccer, round ball, football, that’s

house and watch NBN news and my Nan would call Melinda Smith ‘our Melinda’.

“I will miss that part of it, the television side of things, that’s what I always wanted to get into, but I haven't looked back.”

One thing that will never change is her love of sport itself.

probably my favourite sport,” Kate says.

“In fact, we’ve just been watching a

“I’ve been lucky enough to meet her a couple of times when she’s been here playing for the Matildas and before that when she was playing for Perth Glory in what was the W-League.

“What she has done for women’s sport in general is inspirational.

“She’s very aware of the role she plays but

Champions League game before school.

not overawed by that. I mean she’s on the

We’re all about soccer in my house.

cover of FIFA, that doesn’t happen to a girl

“I absolutely love the Jets, and we follow Chelsea in the Premier League.“ And, when it comes to a favourite

“I’ve loved Newcastle sports

“But, I’d have to say Sam Kerr.

sportsperson, Kate’s answer

since I’d go to Knights'

includes two of the sporting

games as a child with my

world's GOATs (Greatest Of

granddad,” she recalls.

All Time).

“I’d sit under the

“Everyone I used to

blanket that my Nan

work with will laugh

knitted, and we’d watch

if I don't say David

Newcastle at the old

Beckham,” she explains.

Marathon Stadium.

“We'd sit there all day,

from WA. I think she’s amazing.

“So often with players who have the weight of that expectation fumble or stumble, but she doesn’t.

“She doesn’t carry a message… she is the message. She’s great.

“And, I absolutely love that there are so many little boys running around with a ‘Kerr’ top on.

“They could choose whatever top they want and there are so many that wear Kerr.

“When he came to

“That’s where we should be heading; that

Newcastle (in 2010) I got to

we’re in a place where boys and girls are just

watching all the lower

meet him, and I had photos

grades, until the Knights

on my desk of meeting him and

looking at a sportsperson.

“And, in many aspects of the world,

CREATING PATHWAYS FOR

HUNTER NETBALLERS hunternetball.com PROUD MEDIA PARTNER

20

newcastleweekly.com.au

COVER STORY (Opposite and below) Kate Haberfield with David Beckham and on the job.

parishes and schools in the area.

The role, she admits, is the result of seeking a better work-life balance and, to date, it has been a perfect fit.

“Walking away was hard. It was a hard thing to wrestle with,” she says.

“I always felt that in order to be offered an equal opportunity you had to fit into a system that doesn’t actually fit you.

“But, the system doesn’t actually fit a female. You may be offered the opportunity, but it will never fit a working mother. It’s like being a square peg in a round hole. So, it’s not equitable.

“I like that in the role we’ll be affecting change, impacting the community in some way. I like the idea of that and that’s what drew me to this role.”

It means big changes for the family, too.

Kate’s children, Aria, aged 10, and Roman, “They’ve never known me as a mum

that was already working and it suited a

dinner,” she says.

system for the individual, not the individual

Samaritans, Anglican Care, as well as

already,” Kate says.

who doesn’t work weekends or is home for

important.”

The organisation encompasses

“I am looking forward to wearing less makeup, my skin and hair are loving it

“It may seem equal on the surface but it's

happen in a lot of places to make that

manager for Newcastle Anglican.

And, what does the future hold?

not because you’re forced to fit into a system

sport can lead change, I think that’s super Speaking of change, in February

valuable, but it's still not catered for.”

eight, are admittedly still adjusting.

male. There’s still that shift that needs to

Kate began her role as communications

“Women offer a perspective that is so needed to business. That perspective is so

fitting the system.

“This is a whole new world for all of us.

“It’s a great community to work in. It’s farreaching. It speaks to me in that way.

“Bishop Peter Stuart speaks of being

“Which is what I’ve got now that I didn’t know was a thing.

inclusive and we have a female Bishop (Sonia Roulston).

“I thought I was asking too much. The system has to fit each individual.

“In the same way that sport can lead change, this can, too."

•

Newcastle’s own clinical trial centre Every new medication/treatment has to pass through a series of clinical trials, a process which can take several years, before it can be approved for wider use.

By volunteering for a trial, you have the opportunity to access cutting edge treatment not otherwise available, while also helping to improve future treatment options.

Our ethically approved clinical trials are run by a dedicated team of doctors and nurses.

We provide comprehensive medical care throughout the trial at no cost to you.

Novatrials are now seeking volunteers for the following clinical trials: • Influenza Vaccine (for ages 18-60) • Omicron Booster Vaccine - if you have had at least 3 Pfizer and/or Moderna vaccinations (for ages 18-64) • Osteoarthritis of Knee and/or Hip (for ages 35-70) • Dysmenorrhea - Severe Period Pain (for ages over 18) • CBD - Cannabidiol derived from Cannabis (for males aged 18-40)

It is only through the willingness of clinical trial volunteers that we can advance medicine and continue changing lives.

For further information call us on 4089 3745 or visit novatrials.com.au Novatrials, Level 1, OTP House, 10 Bradford Close, Kotara, NSW 2289

newcastleweekly.com.au

21

ENTERTAINMENT

THE CAST Regardless of your stance, there’s no denying the passion each “cast member” has for his or her beloved “hobby”.

Cars and bikes (the motorised kind) is the passion they all share.

More Than Hoons: Capturing a very Newy sub-culture on film

member, and some of the vehicles we came across were nothing short of spectacular,” Dormand adds.

The film relays conversations with dozens of race drivers, event coordinators, mechanical wizards, car lovers, an exhighway patrol officer and of course, as Dormand says “our local hoons”.

“The world of car culture is divided into

lthough Supercars have been racing

says. “From the invention of World Speedway

two camps – hoons and car enthusiasts,” he

the city circuit on and off for the

in 1923 at Maitland Showground to 100 years

told the Newcastle Weekly.

past five years, there’s a distinctly

later hosting the V8 Supercars.

Newcastle underlying theme that has been racing through our veins for a lot longer.

From gathering at Nobbys Beach car

“The way they treat their cars is very

“Along the way we visit the names of

different but ask any ‘car enthusiast’ what

our legendary regional events; Mattara

they were doing when they were 17 and you

Hillclimb, Motordrome, Super Moto,

may get a different answer.”

park to racing four-abreast at speed under

Rickshaw’s Hot-Rod Show and, of course, the

Stockton Bridge.

infamous Kooragang Island, home to the

it was hard not to get somewhat attached to

region’s illegal drag racing.”

the characters.

This was a sub-culture synonymous with Newcastle’s history.

During the filming process, Dormand says

Filmed over the past three years, Hoons

“You couldn’t get a more Newcastle cast

And, they were known as “Hoons”.

captures moments of time that few were

than this, this will go international because

Filmmakers Glenn Dormand and Tony

privy to experience firsthand.

it’s a universal theme,” he said.

Whittaker, the faces behind Stories of Our

What began as a handful of raw footage

Town, released their latest installment on

has been compiled into a glimpse of

Friday 2 March More Than Hoons: 100 Years

Newcastle’s legal and illegal car-loving

of Newcastle Motor Sports.

subculture.

In little more than 30 minutes, the duo

“We’d be filming in the sheds

“I got a couple of the boys over to the edit suite the other day and sat there and watched them watching the film, which doesn’t happen often.

“They were loving it, they were

sums up the sub-culture in imagery,

and these guys would be

cacking themselves, it was a

interviews and sound, as well as a whole lot

revving their 1500-horsepower

wonderful experience.

of hot tyres and blown smoke.

cars, and it’d be a Sunday

THE FILM

morning and they’d be

“Sometimes when you make these things it’s like a

drinking a beer already. It was

painting, you’re painting up

“It’s a celebration of Newcastle and the

incredible really,” Dormand

close and you’re working on tiny

Hunter’s love of all things petrol,” Dormand

reflects.

22

bits over and over and you don’t newcastleweekly.com.au

ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

A

“They’re so passionate about them, their cars are like their babies, they’re a family

often get to step back and look at it all and

you were either into surfing or cars, and I

that was an opportunity to do that, and I

wasn’t into either, but I had an opinion of

“It makes people want more; Newcastle is

loved it.”

what that culture was like,” Dormand said.

synonymous with motor racing,” he added.

THE TITLE

“You learn the story and you try to

“And, I’m embarrassed to admit it but

tell it from every angle, and we had

about a week ago I realised that the first

“It took us ages to work out what it would

some fascinating people tell us some

Speedway event in the world happened 100

be called but the More than Hoons thing

amazing stories, and each from their own

years ago, that was serendipitous.”

they love because it’s the whole divide with

perspective.”

car enthusiasts, they don’t like being called hoons, they’re much more than that, when in actual fact when they looked at the footage many of them actually said ‘yeah, I probably was a hoon back in the day’.”

NEWCASTLE CULTURE

Dormand was the front man for alternative rock band Machine Gun Fellatio.

He later morphed into TV presenter Chit Chat Von Loopin Stab.

A TIME IN HISTORY This film is set in a time when there were no

“It was hard to find photos and footage of

mobile phones, a fact many of the “drivers”

this racing because it was all kept under

were grateful for.

wraps because it was such an underground

“I love that part when Dave says, ‘you

culture but like Rod (former Policeman) says

couldn’t call Steve’s mum and say we’re

these days they can check six regos in a

going over to the island’, this was a time

second and see who's got defects, so all

before any of that existed,” laughs Dormand.

these cars are just tucked in garages all over

anticipation of Supercars, Dormand says.

THE FUTURE “The point of the end of the film was to try and find a solution, and that’s what all of them said, from Charlotte to the 82-year-old character, they all said we need our own track,” he said.

“It was important not to be left feeling hopeless at the end.

“It [motor racing] doesn’t suit everyone, but it deserves a look at, there’s enough interest.”

FEEDBACK

“And, my favourite line in the film was when

“I had a friend watch it, who didn’t grow up

this guy says ‘sometimes you’d get over to the

in Newcastle, and isn’t into cars, and she was

The characters in this documentary could

island and there’d only be two guys, so we’d

surprised by the warmth of it.”

be anywhere in the world, but the locations

come back and then we’d see six cars driving

Given the topic, that was surprising, he

and the stories are endearingly Newcastle.

over and he says ‘and they weren’t going to

says. “I learned a lot doing the film and in

Even the reference to workers at the city’s

F*@cken Jims to get a milkshake’ – that’s not

fact I’ve started noticing cars more,” admits

Newcastle that’s Newy.”

Dormand.

WHY NOW

Motor Sports is coming to Youtube on

Now is the right time to release the film, in

Supercars weekend.

the suburbs these days,” Dormand said.

BHP plant who were working on parts for their cars and bikes that came under the heading of “foreign orders”.

“When I was growing up here in Newcastle newcastleweekly.com.au

More Than Hoons: 100 Years of Newcastle

23

EXCLUSIVE

Former tennis champ Jelena serves up a positive message Jelena is no stranger to personal battles.

her 39 years.

In her speaking career and through her

Tennis became her lifeline as she rose through the ranks.

Once ranked No 4 in the world for

book Unbreakable, she has been open and

“I used to look up to tennis players

her tennis prowess, she has since aced it as

honest about the years of abuse suffered at

because I grew up in that sport, I had

a coach, commentator, mentor and author.

the hands of her father.

Monica Seles and Steffi Graff, two incredible

But, what she wants most to be

“I have a platform so in a way it is my

remembered for is being a voice for the

responsibility to do something with it, I

voiceless.

certainly want to do good with that,” she

The former Croatian refugee visited the Hunter region this month to headline the Lake Mac Women in Sport Festival.

The week-long event also fell amid

exclusively told the Newcastle Weekly.

“I just try and do good and help women and especially young girls, that’s what I’m about, and what I want to be

players and incredible people too, humble and hardworking,” she said.

“But, as an athlete, your career doesn’t go on forever, so your heroes change.

“Today, I get incredibly inspired by every single person doing it tough, being resilient, getting up every single day and

annual International Women’s Day,

remembered for, that’s what I

something she was proud to represent.

want my legacy to be.

finding a way to be strong

“I get motivated and

and survive – especially

“It’s an honour,” she says.

“And, it’s something I’m quite humbled by.

inspired by other women

“I don’t really like to talk about myself, but I

who are doing it tough.”

“I’ve been inspired by a

Jelena began playing

lot of the women who are

do try to raise awareness and speak up.

“I share my story in the hope of being able to help someone else and especially those

tennis at the age of six.

Born in war-time Croatia,

people who feel they don’t have a voice,

she became a refugee in

that feel like they’re alone. Just to let them

Serbia before her family fled

know they’re not alone.”

to Australia.

24

battling through challenges and

women and young girls.

brave enough to speak up and share their stories in recent years.

“It’s not easy to do.

“I’ve done it as well and I know newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY SHUTTERSTOCK ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

J

elena Dokic has been many things in

”I get motivated and inspired by other women who are doing it tough.” of my downtime is actually some of the work that I do,” she admits.

“I see doing events and being able to share my story of survival as my downtime.

It helps me on so many levels.

“Pottery is my new passion as well.”

Sharing her story about her domestic violence and bullying about her weight have all been cathartic for the now-single woman.

“I’m an open book, and I’ve shared all about my childhood experiences in Unbreakable. That was the whole point,” Jelena said.

“I wanted to be completely open, honest, vulnerable, raw and show people what it looks like. Some of those stories are tough to tell and tough to listen to, but I think the reality of what goes on behind closed doors is even more so.

“There are such horrifying numbers when it comes to suicide for example. I talk a lot about that because I’ve been there.

“I’ve attempted suicide.

“There are nine Australians who take their lives every single day and almost a million how hard that is so Grace Tame for me has

times through domestic violence and child

world-wide. You’ve got at least one woman

been an incredible inspiration, and she is

abuse and mental health issues as well, I still

a week who dies from domestic violence

one of many.”

feel sport helped me get through it.”

in Australia.

On the eve of her 40th birthday, Jelena says she has learned the value of sport in other ways.

“It’s important to get young people involved in sport. It doesn’t matter if you’re

Following your passion can also be a form of healing, she adds.

“You need something that you’re passionate about in your life, whether that’s a sport or not,” Jelena said.

going to be a professional one day or

“It’s something you can connect with

not, sport is something that really builds

people over, and the community, for the rest

character from a very young age,” she said.

of your life. As we go through life there will be

“It teaches hard work, discipline, connections, how to work together, and build resilience.

tough times, it’s inevitable.

“We’re going to go through difficult

“These are some horrifying numbers that we don’t always hear about every day, but we need to raise awareness.

“For me, I was doing that by sharing my story and I believe the more we share our stories the more it brings awareness to it and education.

“My hope is that people that are going through it will then have more strength, and more hope, to know that there is a way out.

moments, through grief and loss. Having that

“I think the more that we hide it, and we

“You will go through tough times in sport

sport, that passion in life, being connected

don’t talk about it the more we’re silent, the

but that sets you up for life, because you’re

to your community, your club, can really

more power it gives to the abusers.

going to go through tough times in life, too.

help you get through the tough times.

“The more we talk about it and share,

“Sport can set you up for life, especially

“And, I think it certainly helped me.”

we can all unite in this fight against these

when it comes to mental health, there are

Almost a decade after retiring from

things that are affecting so many, especially

so many positives about being involved

professional sport, Jelena is finding other

in sports.

ways to unwind.

“I think sport has been a lifesaver for me.

“I’m so passionate about what I do and,

“Even though I went through a lot of tough

in some ways, I’m a workaholic, that some

newcastleweekly.com.au

women and girls.

“I’m passionate about that.

“I do that through my book, my talks, my work, and my social media.”

•

25

LIFESTYLE

The opportunity for feel-good shopping

(Opposite) Sourced on Darby. (Above and below) Honey street Vintage and Stoned Saint Moon in Islington.

It reduces landfill, water pollution, overseas importing and unfair wage systems, but there is so much more to preloved clothing. Find that buzz you get from recycling clothing, finding a bargain and supporting the community in the process.

We’ve listed a few locations to get you started.

ADAMSTOWN

ISLINGTON

Good Vibes 273 Brunker Road

St Vinnies 125 Maitland Road Stoned Saint Moon 80 Maitland Rd fynde 17 Beaumont Street

Salvos 4/356 Pacific Hwy

Honey street 78 Maitland Rd

St Vinnies 3/356 Pacific Hwy

The Conscious Exchange 86 Maitland Rd

BOOLAROO

Village People Op Shop 88-90 Maitland Rd

Samaritans 15 Main Road

MAITLAND

Salvos 24 Main Road

Salvos 4A The Village, Garnet Road,

CARDIFF

East Maitland

TORONTO Save the Children 2/49 The Boulevarde Lifeline Shop 64 The Boulevarde The Smith Family Store 49 The Boulevarde

Salvos 439 High Street, Maitland

WALLSEND

Opshop Heaven 298 Main Road

Lifeline Shop 385 High Street, Maitland

Salvos 119 Newcastle Road

Lifeline Shop 288 Main Road

St Vinnies 99 High Street, East Maitland

Samaritans 145 Nelson Street

Church 4 Life 343 Main Road

COOKS HILL Sourced on Darby 99 Darby Street

HAMILTON

PORT STEPHENS

Lifeline Shop 129 Nelson Street St Vinnies 175 Nelson Street

Salvos 165 Salamander Way

2nd Edition 143 Nelson Street

RAYMOND TERRACE

WARNERS BAY

Salvos Cnr Bourke & Port Stephens Street

Allira House Op Shop 22 John Street

Samaritans 19 Beaumont Street

Lifeline Shop 3/29 Sturgeon Street Redhead

Church 4 Life 250 Macquarie Road

Salvos 24 Hudson Street

The Anglican Op Shop 1/101 Cowlishaw

Lifeline Shop 1/54 Clyde Street

Street

St Vinnies 143 Beaumont Street Australian Red Cross 63B Beaumont Street

THE JUNCTION

The Retro Wardrobe 1/133 Beaumont Street

Australian Red Cross 2/200 Union Street

26

SCAN THE QR FOR OUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO VINTAGE STORES AND OP SHOPPING. newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY DAINA MCKAY ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

BELMONT NORTH

WALKA GRANGE LIFESTYLE

VILLAGE FETE

SATURDAY 11TH MARCH 2023 • 10AM – 2:00PM FRIENDS AND FAMILY WELCOME Gates will be open to enter the village from 10am to 2pm

10.00am – Devonshire Tea on the verandah Scones with jam & cream - $5 Bric-a-Brac • Pre loved & Wooden Jewellery Christmas Decorations • Macramé plant hangers Cakes • Homemade craft stalls ALL PROCEEDS GO TO OUR ANNUAL CANCER FUNDRAISER

The Hunter Valley’s Premier Over 55’s Village 28 Waterworks Road, Rutherford NSW 2320 Ph: 0409 805 422 / 4933 0004 Email: sales@walkagrange.com.au www.walkagrange.com.au

GARDENING

Claire's passion for cacti pays off

C

laire Whitehouse is obsessed with cacti, so much so she’s opened the Hunter’s first shopfront filled with the

spikey succulents.

And, despite the fact she’s never formerly studied the plant, there’s not much she doesn’t know about them, all 2000 varieties of them.

From its Raymond Terrace address, Claire’s business stocks gifts, clothing, jewellery, tea towels, plants, pots, posters, pens and pajamas all embellished with a cactus or two. And, if that wasn’t quirky enough, the store has a cheeky name too – The Prick Store.

From its bold orange logo to its Mexicankeyrings, cartoon gift cards and cactusshaped mirrors – this store promises a feast for the eyes.

“I just wanted it to be a fun place to work and shop,” she says.

“Cacti are just so fascinating.

"There are so many different types and

they’re all so different.”

Katoomba, Claire longed for a sea change

It’s a passion that began when the Lemon Tree Passage mother first moved to the Hunter region five years ago.

Novatrials are seeking volunteers to participate in upcoming vaccine clinical trials.

If you are over the age of 18 you may qualify for:

the outskirts of Port Stephens.

It was here she decided to buy her first

Leaving behind the cooler climate of

Join a Vaccine Clinical Trial

before finding herself buying a property on

house plant to celebrate the relocation.

•

GOT

WALL CRACKS?

Influenza Vaccine or Omicron Covid-19 Vaccine Booster Participants receive vaccinations and study related health care from a dedicated medical team at no cost.

You will also receive a travel reimbursement for attending study visits.

It is only through volunteers participating in clinical trials that we can advance medicine and continue changing lives.

For more information call 4089 3745 or visit novatrials.com.au

Novatrials, Level 1, OTP House, 10 Bradford Close, Kotara NSW 2289 28

Book a free structural assessment

1300 854 115 buildfix.com.au newcastleweekly.com.au

ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

inspired artworks, its glittery earrings, woven

Drop in, say 'hi' at The Posy Post

T

he Posy Post has a new home,

background in fashion design, was regularly

and you’re all invited to drop in

visiting the Sydney Flower Market and

and say ‘Hi’.

making bouquets for family and friends, in

After almost a decade of creating blooms

from behind closed doors, Brooke Cousins and her team has opened the doors to its

order to keep feeding her creative side.

"The idea just sort of grew organically from there,” she says.

The term ‘posy’ means a small bouquet of flowers.

“So that, and we wanted to deliver them, so it was like we were posting them, we put the words together and the name just sort of came from there – The Posy Post.”

•

Warners Bay address.

The popular florist, famed for creating three different price points of one style of posy, is finding a new way to continue what has become a successful formula.

The Posy Post business model is a concept the founder and mother-of-two says was borne out of necessity.

“I was working in a corporate membership -based industry and whenever we had ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

something happen with a client, like we wanted to send congratulations, or condolences, you just couldn’t send anything in Newcastle for $40. It didn’t have to be a huge arrangement, we just wanted a little bunch with a nice little card for those ‘just because' moments, and it didn’t exist.”

At the same time Brooke, who also has a

WIN

BARRIER REEF DISCOVERY CRUISE

SCAN THE QR CODE

GRAB YOUR TICKETS ONLINE

newcastleweekly.com.au

29

COMMUNITY

Celebrating remarkable women in our community They are innovators, they are brave and creative, compassionate and hard-working, and often leaders in their field, this 2023 International Women’s Day we honour some of our female role models.

EMMA SPENCER - THE NEWCASTLE SHOW GENERAL MANAGER She is young, she’s a woman and she’s 28 weeks pregnant, and none of these things have hampered Emma Spencer’s approach to her role as the custodian of a 121-year-old Novocastrian tradition.

As general manager of The Newcastle Show, Emma is both efficient and approachable, traits that make her the perfect person for the job.

Now, in the afterglow of overseeing her second annual event that attracts more than 35,000 visitors and 130 stalls, entertainers and businesses, each year, Emma has managed to gain trust and respect from all her stakeholders.

“Being a woman now means having the freedom to do whatever you want and have the people and support behind you,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.

“You can achieve whatever you want.

"Whether that’s having an amazing career and at the same time a family, or it's travelling the world, just doing whatever makes you happy, that’s what you deserve.

"And, it shouldn’t be limited to just a few things either."

MARIA MARTIN, FOUNDER OF NOT-FOR-PROFIT CHARITY SURVIVORS R US, CARDIFF In 2010, Maria fled an abusive partner with her young daughter, fearing he would harm them, or worse. She knew she needed help, PHOTOGRAPHY PETER STOOP ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE; ROD THOMPSON

but she didn’t know where to go to find it. Four months after fleeing, she was held at gunpoint in her workplace.

Then, in the five years that followed, she lost her beloved stepfather to cancer and received a cancer diagnosis of her own.

The former chef and restaurant owner said she was “completely broken”.

“It all became too much for me,” she said. “I just couldn’t cope.”

Maria was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress and took some much-needed time off for what she calls “healing”.

It was during this time she founded Survivors R Us, adapting a logo of a giant phoenix, a mythical bird that lived for centuries and, even after death, was renewed to youth to live through another life cycle.

“That’s me taking my life back,” Maria said. “Rising from the ashes.

“And, it’s what I want everyone to know – that you can get your life back together after a traumatic experience.”

Maria and her team at Survivors R Us have since grown and now offer an op shop, pantry with free food, showers, counselling, social events, and a women’s only weekly afternoon tea.

30

newcastleweekly.com.au

REBECCA RIDDLE - NEWCASTLE WEEKLY JOURNALIST Travel was her first passion. After an eye-opening trek from Pakistan through the Himalayas to K2 base camp, the then-23-year-old left her hometown of Perth for life aboard a cruise ship in SE Asia, before months spent driving around Australia in a former rally car, and a spontaneous decision to live in London for six months, turned into a four-year adventure.

Fast-forward to marriage, two children and a move to Victoria where Rebecca (Bec) rekindled a love of journalism – an occupation she’d once dreamt of pursuing while in high school.

Juggling babies, childcare and a new community, Bec undertook a university degree in Journalism and PR, a course she completed in four years, graduating with a Distinction.

Her journalism career began at a local Fairfax newspaper, before a move to Lake Macquarie led her to the Newcastle Weekly.

She now juggles a tween and a teen and a full-time job, as well as running her own business as a marriage celebrant.

“Over time women have had to fight for their right to vote, to travel without an accompanying male, to wear what they chose and to have a job and earn their own money, among other things,” she said.

“I think International Women’s Day is an opportunity to reflect on this and feel proud about how far we’ve come, and then to encourage each other as women to keep striving for equality.”

VANESSA ALEXANDER - AWARD WINNING SCREENWRITER / HUMANITARIAN An award-winning screenwriter, a humanitarian and a mum… there’s not much Newcastle’s Vanessa Alexander hasn’t achieved.

And, she recently shared her inspiring story at the annual Lord Mayor’s International Women’s Day Morning Tea. Ms Alexander is best-known for writing on The Great (Hulu) and Vikings: Valhalla (Netflix).

For The Great, she was nominated for Best Comedy and Best New Series at the Writers Guild of America Awards (2021).

The same year, she also went on to co-executive produce Valhalla from her bedroom in Newcastle during the COVID-19 lockdown while home-schooling three kids.

Somehow, while doing all of this, Ms Alexander and a group of friends began to assist Afghan women at risk of retribution from the Taliban.

That move itself showcased her incredible story of courage and hope. With the support of Darwish Ahmadzai, she aided others trying to do the same and was personally involved in helping more than 100 women and their families out of Afghanistan, 56 of whom are now living in or around Newcastle.

Another 32 reside in Ireland with the support of Ms Alexander’s sister, Elise.

Others have resettled in Brazil and the United States.

She continues to offer her assistance, by raising funds for refugee support service Talent Beyond Boundaries. newcastleweekly.com.au

31

SOCIAL

Fundraising for a cause A sea of bright colours, florals and pastels filled the iconic Merewether Surfhouse on Friday as women from all over the Hunter gathered for the Got Your Back Sista inaugural International Women’s Day function, raising more than $47,000 for women in need.

(From Left, clockwise) Lesa and Gerry Mason; Jessica Brennan; Tegan O'Doherty and Alex Hinchcliffe; Nuatali Nelmes with Eight Recruitment; Nuatali Nelmes; Brooke Stevenson, Luoise Joannu and Amanda Bell; Jo Crosbie, Melissa Histon and PetaWinney Baartz; Alexandra Joy, Belinda Wellings and Melissa Histon; Gabrielle Carroll, Esme Piper, Madeleine Fitzgibbon and Eilsih Fitzgibbon; Tabitha Acret.

32

newcastleweekly.com.au

newcastleweekly.com.au

33

PROPERTY

Suburb Profile: Morisset Postcode: 2264 LGA: Lake Macquarie

MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE

$760,000 MEDIAN APARTMENT PRICE

Area. The site is now heritage-listed with

Newcastle, Morisset would have to be

visitors and kangaroos enjoying the space.

one of the most misspelled suburbs in

Morisset’s future, however, looks bigger

Lake Macquarie.

Named after Major James Thomas Morisset, who camped in the location in

and brighter after its postcode welcomed a $100 million home estate and 94-berth marina in 2019.

1823 while making the overland journey from

If the community gives the green light to

Sydney to Newcastle, Morisset was a product

development, the address will also welcome

of the railway, constructed in 1886.

a 5-star hotel, a 188-berth marina, 200-seat

Its first industries were sawmilling, and

restaurant and bar, café, business centre,

the building and functioning of the railway,

pool, day spa, gymnasium, car parking and

with logs brought by bullock dray from

public boardwalks.

surrounding areas, many from the Wattagan mountains.

In 1908, a psychiatric hospital opened

It follows the $235 million redevelopment of Morisset Golf Course, to be known as Cedar Mill Lake Macquarie, with plans for

on a large estate along the lake shore,

a 30,000-person concert venue, cafes and

surrounded by one of the seven areas that

restaurants, accommodation and Australia’s

form the Lake Macquarie State Conservation

largest aquatic play park.

SO LD

SO LD

$515,000 MEDIAN RENTAL PRICE

$505/WK SUBURB AMENITIES EATERIES .....................................5 PRIMARY SCHOOLS ................... 2 HIGH SCHOOLS ............................1 SHOPPING COMPLEXES ............ 2 OP SHOPS ...................................3

PETROL STATIONS ....................3

SO LD

126 AWABA STREET

176 MARCONI ROAD

9/17A STOCKTON STREET

4 bed 2 bath 3 cars 607m² House

4 bed 1 bath 2 cars 8,903.08m² House

2 bed 1 bath 1 car Unit

$860,000 Sold on 24 Jan 2023

$1,100,000 Sold on 16 Dec 2022

$495,000 Sold on 9 Feb 2023

PRD Leanne Veigel

Avery Property Professionals – Craig Avery

Elle Jayne Realty – Ben Wrigley

34

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY LAKE MACQUARIE CITY COUNCIL ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

L

ocated halfway between Gosford and

Ocean Terrace home already turning heads from all around Australia Its agents are remaining coy about its price tag, preferring to focus on the term ‘once in a lifetime’ when describing this Newcastle East terrace home that redefines ‘ocean front’.

1 OCEAN TERRACE, NEWCASTLE EAST 2300 Built in 1880, this terrace home sits high upon its coveted clifftop oceanfront position, capturing unobstructed views across Nobbys and Newcastle beaches and far beyond, with the views to be enjoyed from every room.

Following its extensive 2017 to 2019 renovations, this multi-level family home boasts effortless coastal style, with custom-designed interiors and bespoke finishes throughout thanks to Flourish Interior Design.

Plenty of natural light, a gourmet kitchen equipped with a large island bench, breakfast bar and premium appliances, balcony and outdoor retreat make this home appealing.

An inviting heated plunge pool and stunning panoramic views add to irresistible charm.

And, all this is just a short stroll from the Newcastle CBD, restaurants, shops, bars and harbourfront precinct.

“This is an architectural masterpiece on one of Newcastle’s most coveted cliff top positions offering unobstructed panoramic views,” says Spillane real estate agent Patrick Skinner.

“This is an incredibly unique offering to the market, and one that is already turning heads from all over Australia.” newcastleweekly.com.au

4

3

185 M²

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST 35

PROPERTY

New Lambton Heights It’s been in the one family since 2008, and now this Cardiff Road home is looking for some fresh faces. Close to John Hunter Hospital and Blackbutt Nature Reserve, as well as main arterial roads to Sydney and the Hunter Valley, this should sell fast.

37 CARDIFF ROAD, NEW LAMBTON HEIGHTS 2305 An abundance of different indoor and outdoor spaces means everyone in the family will find their own nook at this New Lambton Heights address. Boasting four bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, a home study, and a sequence of outdoor entertaining areas, it presents many opportunities. And, with a heated mineral inground pool, neat rear garden and beautiful views, it will be one to entertain in and share with visitors all yearround. Its well-zoned floorplan, which features three bedrooms, two living zones and a bathroom upstairs and a fourth bedroom, two additional living zones and second bathroom downstairs, means its possibilities are endless, and all located in one of Newcastle’s most popular postcodes.

4

2

5

PRICE GUIDE: $1,150,000 - $1,250,000

Original Post-War Home Built in the 1960s, this Hudson premises has been in the care of its loving owner for its entire existence, maintained year in and year out to keep up with a growing family.

Strong bones and an ideal location make it something to brag about.

79 LEXINGTON AVENUE, ADAMSTOWN HEIGHTS 2289 Set in the family-friendly neighbourhood of Adamstown Heights, overlooking Hudson Park and Rugby Fields, this property is set on a large block on a residential street. A low-maintenance house, it has been maintained with its original charm still intact, including wooden cabinetry, pendant lighting and ceiling cornices.

The layout of the home allows ample room to spread out and offers plenty of storage both indoors and in an under the house garage. While a clever renovator is sure to see potential, green thumbs will also appreciate the size of the yard. This property is being sold under the Online Friendly Auction System.

3

2

2

607M2

PRICE GUIDE: $980,000

36

newcastleweekly.com.au

Brick home in Charlestown From its leafy, little-known street, tucked away in what is one of Charlestown’s enviable corners sits this solid brick home. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms, an above ground pool and more than 1,000 square metres, means the whole family can find their own zone, and all within a suburb that boasts everything from shops, cinemas, and bowls clubs to cafes, schools and sports.

21 JARROD CLOSE, CHARLESTOWN 2290 Enjoying a premium cul-de-sac end position in a quiet pocket of Charlestown, this well-built home features a long list of creature comforts including air-conditioning, an updated kitchen and bathroom, an above-ground pool, and a garage with drive through access. A step inside reveals front and rear living zones to maximise versatility, and the layout is further enhanced by four bedrooms and two bathrooms. Entertainers won't be left disappointed with a large and protected alfresco area overlooking the yard and pool – an ideal setting to host gettogethers or to sit and relax while keeping an eye on the kids.

4

2

1

PRICE: $1,100,000 - $1,200,000

A touch of class at Lovedale An historic look, a touch of class, and a spacious outlook guaranteed to promote rest and relaxation, that’s how this enviable property on Wilderness Road in Lovedale is being described. From its meandering avenues of Chanticleer pear-trees to its sandstone entrance and handmade timber gates, Springfield offers a warm welcome to each of its guests.

260 WILDERNESS ROAD, LOVEDALE 2297 Architecturally finished and boasting polished timber boards, soaring ceilings and jaw-dropping views, this homestead is surrounded by some of the Hunter Valley’s most beautiful estates, vineyards and restaurants, offering views of both the Barrington and Brokenback ranges from its boundaries.

Wide covered and open decks, plenty of entertaining spaces, an open fireplace adorned with pink Louis XV marble mantel, an expansive dining space and kitchen with large pantry, a large inground pool connects to a separate guest pavilion, which is fully self-contained.

Cars, farm machinery and toys are well catered for as well.

4

3

5

46.13HA

PRICE GUIDE $EOI

newcastleweekly.com.au

37

The faces you have grown to know and trust

Lisa Macklin

Stephanie Jordan

27 Years Experience

Lilly Findley

6 Years Experience

Judith Henderson

2 Years Experience

Vanessa Beneke

9 Years Experience

Eliza Dunn

17 Years Experience

13 Years Experience

Elizabeth Pallas 16 Years Experience

Honest caring professionals making your dream home a reality

Buying, Leasing or Selling, be sure to reach out. We are here to assist - 4956 3033

BUSINESS FEATURE

Taking a new direction

A

s soon as you walk through the front door at Lisa Macklin Property in New Lambton, you know this is unlike any

other real estate agency.

Its soft, welcoming tones and gentle features give the feeling you’ve entered a friend’s living room, rather than her work office.

And, that’s exactly what Lisa and her team hope you’ll feel.

After more than 26 years in the industry, it’s one of the most valuable lessons Lisa says she has learned that gentleness does not equate to weakness.

“Yes, we’re gentle and we care but that doesn’t mean we’re weak. We’re strong when needed for negotiations, but we’re also here to listen and here to help.”

“We’re not about shiny shoes and fast cars, we’re real people and we genuinely care.”

“We are all focused on providing the best service and being the best in our industry and we will take on the responsibility of honesty and ethics.

“Our motto is ‘honest caring professionals making your dream home a reality’ – and that’s what we strive to do.

"Renting and buying can be really stressful and we just want to show compassion and help people along the way.”

Lisa says her team is also embracing the ethos that there is no hierarchy in real estate.

“We are all one team, whether it be in sales or property management, we’re

In November 2022 Lisa took the important step in her already successful career and

here to support one another,” the proud grandmother-of-two says.

launched her own all-female business.

“We’re not about shiny shoes and

Together with her team that has a

fast cars, we’re real people and we

combined 90-years' experience, the brand is committed to living by a motto that puts honesty and ethics above all else.

“Your home is about more than bricks and mortar, it offers a lifestyle, it can provide

genuinely care.”

It’s a work ethic Lisa learned from her father, once the owner of Belmont Northbased business Quinlan Quality Meats.

“My Dad was a butcher I worked part-time

calm, it can be a sanctuary, and everyone

in the shop as soon as I could walk, I think,”

is entitled to that,” she explains.

recalls Lisa.

“Going into business by myself I never

“Dad taught me good values, honesty,

wanted to be the biggest, but I’ve always

and the importance of good relationships.

strived to be the best, and it's been

"He always said if you do the right thing by

•

incredibly important to me to have a

people karma will look after you.”

strong team that shares my values.

For more information visit lmproperty.au

newcastleweekly.com.au

After 26 years in the real estate industry Lisa Macklin says she has learned it’s the people within a business that sets it apart from others.

39

PROPERTY

S

kyrocketing rent, stamp duty cuts,

certainly not exempt from the difficulties

declining house prices and rising

of acquiring property,” McKibbin told the

interest rates are all government

Newcastle Weekly.

distractions from the real issue, which is a lack of housing, says REINSW CEO Tim McKibbin.

Largely ignored by governments for several years, demand is now urgent, he explains.

"Existing investors are leaving the market, there are insufficient builds and sharply increasing population," he said.

"I hate to use the term but this really is

'the perfect storm'."

“We have affordability issues, and we have supply issues.

"We see queues down the street of people trying to acquire a rental property and that is only going to get worse unfortunately.

“We are seeing landlords electing to put their money in other markets.

“They’re leaving the residential tenancy market in favour of other opportunities.

"I hate to use the term but this really is 'the perfect storm'."

“Some landlords are removing their property from the residential tenancy market

freezing, tenant pet rights, and the difficulty

The solicitor, accountant and former

and moving it across to the holiday and

of reacquisition of a home from tenants,

registered tax agent visited Newcastle as

short-term rental space – we're seeing this

are all rhetoric driving investors out of the

part of the Real Estate Institute of NSW’s

in Nelson Bay.

market.

(REINSW) Roadshow.

RENTAL CRISIS “We monitor the vacancy rates right across Australia and the Hunter area is most 40

“Commercially that can look more

“The bonds data shows we’re not bringing

attractive, and you may also gain more

enough residential rental properties into the

control over your property, but it doesn’t

market," he says.

help affordability issues and supply issues.”

McKibbin says political talk of rent

"Your shares portfolio doesn't put a roof over someone's head." newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY CANDICE CARLIN; SHUTTERSTOCK ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

Real estate industry facing 'the perfect storm', REINSW boss

"39% of all overseas arrivals come to New South Wales."

IMMIGRATION

These numbers mean more people will call it home than in the state of Tasmania or the Australian Capital Territory.

BUILDING

occupancy, McKibbin adds.

"It affected areas like the Hunter when people realised they could work from home," he said.

Required at a Sydney office space just

“We need to be building 42,000 new

two or three times per month, many opted

dwellings per year in keeping with our

to rent in places like Newcastle and Lake

Immigration is another worrying factor,

population growth,” McKibbin says.

Macquarie, while deciding whether to sell or

McKibbin adds, with Australia set to face

“We’re building significantly less.

record numbers.

“And, the problem is if we don’t build

"While immigration halted during

maintain their home in Sydney.

"Many were testing if it would work for

42,000 this year, then next year we carry a

them first, and it meant they were consuming

[COVID-19] lockdowns, the applications did

debt forward and this is what’s been going

two properties at once. It became we were

not, and now Australia is facing its biggest

on for years.”

refer to as 'the new normal'," he states.

COSTS

own words "politically popular", McKibbin

heading to major centres - Sydney,

“If someone buys a million-dollar property

believes it's important real estate industry

Newcastle and Wollongong – for the

$400,000 of that goes to taxes and charges,

representatives remain positive.

employment opportunities they represent.

spread across three levels of government.

In fact, 39% of all overseas arrivals come

"Between GST, land tax, two sets of

intake of immigrants in its history," he said.

For NSW that means large numbers

to NSW. The Chinese Government has also advised it is wanting its students to return to their studies in Australia as soon as possible,

"These are challenges in our industry

taking longer than the build...it's all driving

and at the moment I'm worried about the

investment away.

mental health of my property managers.

"We need a conversation moving forward.

Government talks affordability and then

coming weeks.

acts with tax."

with Transport NSW Future Planning Strategy

TWO HOMES

projecting Greater Newcastle growth from

The 2019 pandemic also saw the

about 575,000 people to 760,000 by 2056.

introduction of an increase in dual property

newcastleweekly.com.au

"It's something I'm passionate about," he says.

stamp duty, even the development process

with 50,000 expected to start arriving in Local movement will also play a part,

While his industry is becoming, in his

"They're being pressured to ease the situation.

"I don't think its fair that they are asked to absorb a lot of these issues just because they're the 'gatekeepers'.

"There’s ample opportunity to improve the current situation."

•

41

PETS

The importance of keeping your pet vaccinated BUILDING IMMUNITY

the necessary antibodies; reducing the effect

weeks of age - so are most predisposed to

Ensuring our pets stay current with

of any illness and increasing the chance

contracting diseases. Multiple doses are

vaccinations is the best way to build a

of recovery if your pet comes into contact

usually required to ensure your pet’s body

healthy foundation for a longer life by

with a virus. This can also reduce the cost of

stimulates enough antibodies. Older pets

avoiding preventable diseases. They

treatment – an important consideration with

need to remain vaccinated, as their ability

help the immune system recognise and

only one in 15 pets covered by insurance.

to overcome illness diminishes.

remember organisms for more efficient

Prevention is also cheaper than cure.

and rapid responses against their next encounter with the same virus.

START YOUNG

CORE VACCINES At a minimum, the “core” vaccines are

The first thing you need to consider with a

essential to protect against the most

new pet is vaccinations, starting around

common risks, such as “cat flu,” parvovirus

Vaccinations have three main benefits:

six-to-eight weeks of age - dependent

for dogs, Distemper in ferrets, and calicivirus

protection from diseases prevalent in the

on species. Young animals have a less

for rabbits. Additional vaccines may be

local wildlife or environment; creating a “herd

developed immune system when weaned

needed for emerging diseases, travel or

immunity” effect, as not all pets can produce

off their mother’s milk - often around 6-10

boarding facilities.

MAIN BENEFITS

VACCINES FOR LIFE! At Sugarloaf Animal Hospital, we offer a “Vaccination for Life” programme to keep your pet protected. One signup fee covers the cost of all of your pet’s core vaccinations for its entire life, helping to keep your pet safe and healthy.

67 Carrington Street, West Wallsend • 02 4955 1833 • enquiries@sugarloafanimalhospital.com.au 42

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY UNSPLASH ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

The saying goes that prevention is better than cure.

Sugarloaf Animal Hospital’s chief vet Dr Katie Powell agrees… and reminds us of the importance of keeping our pets vaccinated.

L AB

E FOR AD

OP

ON TI

For the chance to have your furry friend featured, email your pet’s pics to pets@newcastleweekly.com.au

AV AI L

Pets of the month COVE R STAR'S PET

FRANNIE THE DOMESTIC SHORT HAIR CAT Meet Frannie, the delightful Domestic Short Hair cat!

She goes by Francine only when she's feeling mischievous, but don't worry, that's a rarity.

Frannie loves to cuddle and snuggle, and her purr is sure to melt your heart. She's also very well-

PEPPARONI (PEPPA) THE MINIATURE DACHSHUND

HONEY THE BUDGERIGAR Honey is a friendly two-year-old budgie

scratching post like a true lady.

Pepparoni is a spicy sausage! She was the

who loves to whistle and chirp. He enjoys

Frannie is a happy and adaptable

only long-haired pup from her litter and her

spending time with his human family and is

girl, and would thrive in a variety of

wavy locks continue to grow longer each

always up for a good cuddle.

loving homes. If you're looking for

Favourite activities: He loves giving kisses,

perfect match, unless you have a

week. She loves digging in the dirt and terrorising her much older sister Lola.

mannered, using her litter box and

an indoor-only pet, Frannie is the nibbling on tissues and jewelry, and getting

secure outdoor enclosure for her to

Favourite activities: She loves digging in the

scratches on his head.

enjoy. If you're looking for a sweet

dirt, shredding sticks, and going for walks

Favourite toy: Honey's favorite toy is his trusty

around the neighborhood.

swing, and he also loves climbing up and

Favourite toy: Peppa's favorite toy is a stuffed

down his ladder. These toys keep him active

donkey that is no longer stuffed!

and entertained for hours on end.

To find out more about adopting

Favourite treat: When it comes to treats,

Favourite treat: Millet sticks, lettuce, and kale.

Frannie, visit: hunteranimalrescue.

Peppa can't get enough chicken. She's also

Special talent: One of Honey's most

partial to a bit of cheese!

impressive skills is mimicking whistles.

and affectionate companion, Frannie is the girl for you!

com.au/adopt/frannie/

Special talent: Peppa's special talent is doing a mean sausage roll!

MACY THE JACK RUSSELL TERRIER Meet Macy, the lively Jack Russell Terrier! Macy is a joyful pup who adores spending time with her human companions.

Favourite activities: Macy is a fun-loving dog who loves spending time with her humans. Her absolute favorite activity is going for a ride in the car to the beach!

Favourite toy: Her favorite toy is her trusty rubber chew toy. She loves nothing more than sinking her teeth into it and playing until she's worn out.

Favourite treat: When it comes to treats, Macy can't resist a good Peanut Butter Kong.

Special talent: One of Macy's most impressive skills is being able to sit like a meerkat. It's a unique talent that never fails to impress!

newcastleweekly.com.au

43

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BETTA HOME LIVING MAITLAND Shop 2/123 Newcastle St East Maitland maitland@my.betta.com.au | www.betta.com.au

GO L CAL that's beT TA!

64 – 80 Sandgate Rd, Wallsend NSW 2287

Get a new lease on life at Cumberland Gardens OFFERING STAGE ONE NOW • 2-bedroom 1.5 bathrooms with large garage.

• 3-bedroom, 2 bathrooms and large double garage.

• 50% CAPITAL Gains departure.

Call Tony 0459 093 377 to secure your dream retirement.

OCCUPANCY DUE APRIL 2023

Open for viewing 9am to 3pm every Saturday, or by appointment.

44

Departure fees apply

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TRADES & SERVICES

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Daniel Curran - Senior Technician info@danscomputers.com.au www.danscomputers.com.au

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TAKE A TOUR WITH US Aldinga Tours EXTENDED TOURS

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STANTHORPE GRANITE BELT COUNTRY 14th– 20th May 2023 Cost: $2130pp/ts • Single Supp $500 extra Includes 6 breakfasts, 6 Lunches & 6 Dinners.

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VIVID LIGHTS ON SYDNEY HARBOUR 5th & 6th June 2023 • Cost: $130pp Includes Luxury Coach Travel,1.5 hour cruise, Finger Food, Bar Package.

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NAN TIEN TEMPLE 24th May 2023 • Cost: $100pp Includes Luxury Coach Travel, Morning Tea, Lunch & Entry.

ELVIS THE MUSICAL 9th August 2023 • Cost: $160pp Includes Luxury Coach Travel & Tickets

WALLIS LAKE SEAFOOD CRUISE 28th April 2023 • Cost: $120pp Includes Luxury Coach Travel, Morning Tea, Lunch and Cruise.

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For more FREE local news, entertainment, property and lifestyle visit newcastleweekly.com.au New stories added daily!

Honeysuckle, Newcastle Photo by Daina Marie

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