October 2022

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OCT | NOV 2022

PERFECT PICNIC SPOTS

TANYA HENNESSY

NO PLACE like 'Newy'

HUNTER'S HIDDEN GEMS

NRLW

KNIGHTS' HISTORIC CHARGE

Brittney Saunders On the fast track to success

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From the editor How good is a success story when it envelops the entire Hunter Valley?

That’s what the Newcastle Knights recently achieved.

But, to the surprise of many, it wasn’t the NRL men who restored pride in the region, it was the club’s inspiring NRLW women who did it.

The Ronald Griffiths-coached squad over-powered the Parramatta Eels 32-12, in front of a reported 45,000 people at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, to lift the Telstra Premiership for the first time.

It was a remarkable turnaround by the Knights.

Newcastle failed to win a match in the 2021 edition of the competition, its inaugural campaign.

However, thanks to a few astute decisions, some excellent recruitment and plenty of hard work, the club made every post a winner on this occasion.

And, the local community, from Shortland to Scone, Merewether to Muswellbrook, and Rathmines to Raymond Terrace, joined the girls on the historic journey.

The support afforded to the Knights’ female players, especially on social media, was second to none, but certainly well-deserved.

And, to top it off, City of Newcastle and Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes hosted a civic reception in celebration of their maiden title at City Hall.

It certainly evoked memories of the club’s glory days, when the Johns and Gidley brothers, Billy Peden, Robbie O and the Chief ruled the roost.

Their triumph should inspire the area’s next generation of NRLW youngsters.

But, it must also be an example – of what to do properly – for the NRL arm of Newcastle’s professional league fraternity.

The choice of Griffiths, as mentor, cannot be underestimated.

The Woodberry Warriors junior served an impressive apprenticeship with the NRL Women’s and Men’s Indigenous All-Stars, as well as an assistant to Michael Maguire at the Wests Tigers.

He also spent a number of years, previously, with the Kurri Kurri, Maitland and Greta Branxton clubs.

So, he knew his “home” region.

That allowed him to tap into the local talent, bringing the likes of Hannah Southwell, Yasmin Clydsdale and Olivia Higgins – to name a few – back to the Hunter Valley to represent the Knights.

The move automatically connected the NRLW outfit to the community.

Residents, young and old, felt this Newcastle side was “their team”.

It’s a formula that’s been lost on the NRL counterparts.

Too many young guns have departed these pastures, to the detriment of the Knights.

So, congratulations to each and every member of the 2022 premiership-winning squad, from the coaching staff to the players.

Enjoy the moment.

Until next month, keep smiling.

4

EDITOR Rod Thompson JOURNALISTS Rebecca Riddle Rod Thompson PUBLISHER Nicole Shelley MARKETING Sophie Kepreotes GRAPHIC DESIGN Melanie Coggio SOCIAL MEDIA Amber Sherwood COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Daina Marie

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27

Contents News 6

NRLW HISTORY IN THE MAKING

8

CROWN JEWEL IN MAITLAND

Knights win inaugural women's premiership

Walka Water Works to undergo $25m makeover

Community MEMORY LIVES ON 10 LUCI'S Family continues to raise breast cancer awareness

Business

30

21

SMALL AGENCY MAKES IT BIG

22

STUDIO M OPENS ITS DOORS

LJ Hooker Cessnock wins prestigious award Hamilton home to $5 million design centre

Food 25

A HEALTHIER ALTERNATIVE

Banana Blossom Salads Newcastle bound

Entertainment 28

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

29

FUN TIME FOR EVERYONE

Tanya Hennessy relives growing up in Newy Cessnock Stomp Festival returns to calendar

Lifestyle YOUR PRIORITIES 30 RE-FOCUS Landscape designer Mark Tisdell offers handy advice

32 ON THE COVER Newcastle

businesswoman Brittney Lee Saunders reveals the secrets to her success. See cover story, page 16.

newcastleweekly.com.au

HOP INTO BUNNY LOVE

RSPCA says rabbits make fantastic companions

KAHIBAH 38 DISCOVER Lake Macquarie suburb flourishing day-by-day

5

NEWS

T

o describe the Higgins clan as a

competition for girls,” the ex-Aberglasslyn Ants

“rugby league family” would be an

junior said.

understatement.

“So, I started playing [league] tag for

While Liam and Luke fell one victory short of success in 2022, Higgins picked up two NRLW titles.

“That’s good as well, getting one up on my brothers. In fact, I think Liam’s sick of coming to my grand finals,” she added with a laugh.

“Seriously, they both love it; they’re really supportive, along with mum and dad.

“They try to attend every game, even though

They’re that and so much more.

South Newcastle. And, from there, I played a

it was hard for a while when they played in the

Father Craig’s a legend within local sporting

bit of nines, progressing through to CRL for

recent Real NRL semis.

circles, claiming the 1984 Player of the Year award, while sons Liam and Luke recently contested the Newcastle RL (Real NRL) grand

Newcastle and then the Central Coast Roosters.

“I soon found myself with the (Sydney) Roosters in the NRLW. Now, I’m back with the

massive.”

"To come home and do it for a team I grew up supporting is really cool."

to remain a member of the Knights’ outfit.

Knights; it couldn’t be better.”

together, especially with the new sides entering

final with their beloved Macquarie Scorpions.

But, for now, it’s daughter Olivia’s turn to shine.

The gifted hooker was an integral member of the Knights’ NRLW side, which captured the Hunter club’s inaugural Telstra Women’s

As for Higgins’ immediate future, she’s keen

Premiership this month at the expense of the Parramatta Eels.

The silverware also doubled as Newcastle’s first major trophy – male or female – since 2001.

A self-confessed “late bloomer”, Higgins was

“Liam actually left his end of season footy trip early to watch the decider, which was

“The contracts are yet to be finalised for next year, as they’re still sorting out the CBA with the NRL,” she said.

“So, hopefully, I’ll be on deck again.

“If we can keep the core group of girls

Higgins admitted it was “inevitable” she’d fall into code, too, given her pedigree.

“My dad played league his whole life in

the competition, that would be fantastic. My gut feeling is I think most of them will stay.”

The victorious Newcastle squad - Tamika

thrilled to be a part of history, despite winning

Newcastle and for the Bears in Sydney,” said

Upton, Kiana Takairangi, Shanice Parker,

the title with the Sydney Roosters earlier in the

the 30-year-old (pictured top right with Yasmin

Bobbi Law, Emmanita Paki, Kirra Dibb, Jesse

year… and scoring in that decider.

Clydsdale).

Southwell, Caitlan Johnston, Olivia Higgins,

“It’s very special,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.

“To come home and then do it for a team I grew up supporting is really cool.

“I haven’t felt that before, so it’s nice.”

Higgins only began her “tackle” journey in 2019, rising through the ranks via league tag.

“When I was growing up, there wasn’t a 6

“He’s coached my brothers right through, so I’ve always been around the game.

Millie Boyle, Romy Teitzel, Yasmin Clydsdale, Kayla Romaniuk, Emma Manzelmann, Tayla

“But, I just love it. I live and breathe footy.

Predebon, Simone Karpani, Makenzie Weale,

“It’s all that’s on TV and it’s all I remember

Caitlin Moran, Kyra Simon, Tiana Davison,

watching as a kid, including the boys’ matches.

Jessica Gentle, Tamsin Barber and Hannah

“That’s where my interest began.”

Southwell – was also presented with the Key to

And, now, she’s also shown up her talented

the City by Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes at a civic

siblings on the big stage.

reception, in front of more than 1,000 fans.

•

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY ROD THOMPSON, NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

Knight to remember for our NRLW stars

An open letter to our members

VOTING NOW OPEN: Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent merger Eligible members are invited to vote ‘yes’ to create a financial powerhouse for the region Both the Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank Boards are unanimously supporting the merger, which has been approved by the Federal Treasurer. We recommend our members also vote in favour of this incredible opportunity to combine forces*.

Merging will make us a more resilient force in the market and best placed to deliver the highest value and services to our customers, now and in the future.

Greater Bank and Newcastle Permanent are proudly customer-owned with no shareholders to consider, and this will not change as a result of the merger.

In merging, this is our commitment to you: – We will remain 100% customer-owned; – We will keep both iconic brands, and there’ll be no change to your bank accounts or banking details; – Once we’ve merged, you’ll be able to use your Greater Bank or Newcastle Permanent card to access both brands’ ATM network for free; – The current combined number of branches will be retained for at least two years; – Our workforces will come together and there will be no forced redundancies as a result of the Merger for at least two years; – Our customer contact centres and headquarters will continue to be based in the Hunter, as they always have; and – We will continue to support our local communities by at least maintaining the $4.5 million invested each year by Newcastle Permanent, Greater Bank and our respective charitable foundations.

More than just two organisations coming together, this merger is about our role in the Hunter’s success and prosperity.

Through merging and becoming a larger organisation, we can drive growth and a greater contribution to our regional economy. We can keep skills and expertise, jobs and investment here.

Many times during our combined 120-year history, we have taken important steps to change the shape and structure of our organisations to ensure their future relevance and success.

This is another pivotal moment requiring strong leadership and the support of our members.

To all our eligible members: don’t miss this opportunity to have your say. Join us in voting Yes.

Wayne Russell Chair, Greater Bank

Jeff Eather Chair, Newcastle Permanent

greater.com.au/mergervote

newcastlepermanent.com.au/merger

From today, members of both Newcastle Permanent and Greater Bank will receive information about the proposed merger and voting. * Subject to there being no Superior Proposal.

NPBS_DES-2168_NW_HU_FP

NEWS

Big plan to revitalise Maitland’s iconic Walka Water Works tents and 40-powered caravan sites, as well

Station lawn area for picnics, events and a

Works could soon be home to a $25

as a camp kitchen and barbecue area

water play space, remediating Walka Beach,

million accommodation hub under a

proposal to transform it into a Hunter tourism icon.

The NSW Government, Maitland City Council and Reflections Holiday Parks are joining forces on a joint funding bid for the 64-hectare Crown Lands reserve to be submitted to the Regional Tourism Activation Fund.

Under the plan, the Department of Planning and Environment, as well as council, will remediate, restore and upgrade the site.

Reflections Holiday Parks would also establish caravan and camping facilities.

The projected site improvements include: • Restoring the 1885 Pumphouse building and

and infrastructure for weddings and other events • Redeveloping the miniature train railway station as an improved visitor experience • Upgrading walking trails to improve accessibility and include interpretive information • Developing a centralised amenities building, upgrading car parking, and other infrastructure improvements “Walka Water Works is one of the state’s

and an education centre.

“It’s exciting to have Reflections Holiday Parks, who is eager to establish some holiday accommodation here, on board,” he explained.

“Council has agreed to enter a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with them to work towards that goal.

“Even though it is a Crown Lands site, we’re the manager and trustee of Walka.

“But, to be honest, it’s owned by the people of Maitland.

"I’ve long said this [Pumphouse] building,

most unique public sites serving the Hunter

although expensive to maintain, needs to be

since 1887 as a source of water, then power and

brought back to life.

chimney back to their original condition to

now recreation and heritage,” Parliamentary

preserve their heritage and allow tourism and

Secretary for the Hunter Taylor Martin said.

hospitality businesses to flourish, such as an

“This plan aims to restore it to its former glory

“If we don’t do it now, it will never happen.

“Maitland welcomes 870,000 visitors a year, spending $123 million, however we can unlock

interpretive centre, cafés, restaurants, craft

and invest in additional improvements that can

much more by investing in unique heritage

brewery or distillery, and event functions

make it a tourism magnet for the Hunter Valley.”

assets like Walka Water Works to diversify

• Establishing overnight accommodation starting with 10 eco-cabins, 12 glamping 8

• Upgrading the eastern lawn with landscaping

Maitland City mayor Philip Penfold said other upgrades could later be pursued for the Power

tourism.

“This is a crown jewel in Maitland."

•

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY NSW GOVERNMENT ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

M

aitland’s heritage-listed Walka Water

2-3

1

2

2

CONSTRUCTION UNDERWAY

E N Q U I R E T O D AY T O R E C E I V E A N I N F O R M AT I O N PA C K

COMMUNITY

Remembering our beloved Luci

O

n 29 August, it was exactly 12 months since Lisa Zajac lost her 33-year-old sister Luci Mackersey

to breast cancer.

The West Wallsend mother-of-two had battled the deadly disease for less than 18 months before it robbed her of her young life.

Since Luci’s passing, Lisa and her family have been determined to continue warning others of the cancer that kills more than 3,000 Australian women each year, a cancer that does not discriminate.

They will feel particularly poignant, as the calendar ticks over into October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“One of the promises Luci made me keep was raise funds where possible,” Lisa says.

“Knowledge is power and it’s really important

On 24 October, a panel of genetic cancer

between 5pm and 6.30pm.

for us to get her story out there. Breast cancer

experts and researchers, including Professor

is the most diagnosed cancer in Australia,

Geoff Lindeman, Professor Kelly-Anne Phillips

and journalist Annabel Crabb, with questions

with nine people losing their lives to this

and Dr Milita Zaleed, will attempt to educate

welcome to be submitted prior.

disease every day. Early detection and

the general public on breast cancer matters

education are vital.”

when they front a Q&A panel streamed online

Early Detection Saves Lives!

3D Mammogram now available at Lakes Radiology Contact our friendly reception team to make a booking on 02 4673 3732 A referral from your GP or specialist is required

Lakes Radiology also provide: Breast Ultrasound Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy Bone Mineral Density (Dexascan)

Core Biopsy CT X-Ray Ultrasound

Lakes Radiology Shop 2/89 Dora Street, Morisset (Opposite the railway) T: 02 4973 3732 | lakesradiology.com.au

10

The free event will be moderated by author

Information can be found at www. breastcancertrials.org.au

•

Better Health Community

MINDFULNESS & WELLNESS PUBLIC PRESENTER/SPEAKER Jeffrey Glick

A deep mental & emotional dive into the human condition.

Life changing mental health and wellness information.

COUNSELLOR & LIFE COACH A Newcastle community service suitable for every organisation, club and business that would benefit from a more functional relationship and behavioural setting.

For all enquires w: betterhealth.community e: jeff8 @me.com m: 04 11 321 345

newcastleweekly.com.au

ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

to carry on her legacy, spread awareness and

BUSINESS FEATURE

Building brighter futures

Y

ou might see an Ethiopian child with a baby on her back looking at you from the side of a bus as it travels throughout

the Hunter this month.

Waiting in traffic, reflecting on the day you’ve

connect with the communities in Ethiopia.

“By collecting donations here in Newcastle and the Hunter, we will be able to support projects in Ethiopia through our network of mission partners. This year, our aim is to

just had, you might spare a thought for what

create a goat rearing centre to address

this child’s day looks like. Her family is one of

malnutrition issues faced by families in

the 70% of Ethiopian families who struggle to

Emdibir, a rural area of Ethiopia. This project

put food on their tables.

will empower the local community by giving

This month, Catholic Mission is reaching

them tools to feed their families, fight youth

out to the Newcastle and Hunter community

unemployment, and access agricultural

to bring hope to families in need in Ethiopia.

training. We do it with the local community.”

Newcastle-based Diocesan Director,

“The church, as a hub, provides the platform

David McGovern, says this is the perfect

to connect locally at a root level and address

time to get involved.

social justice issues, as a church is not just about

“This is an invitation to make a difference.”

four walls. Catholic Mission offers you a tangible way to reach out and help others.” shared Renata, a local mother from Maryville.

By hearing and sharing the stories of families in need in Ethiopia, there is a desire to create

“It is an invitation to make a difference,” he says.

“This is about connecting with the

a deeper connection between the communities despite the distance.

“While they can’t come to Australia to tell us

wider community, and now is the right

their stories, we can hear about their lives and

time to get involved.”

offer our support,” Mr McGovern said.

•

By sharing stories and raising awareness about the challenges faced by families in

To hear the stories of families in the

Ethiopia, Catholic Mission is providing the local

Emdibir community of Ethiopia visit

Newcastle and Hunter community a way to

catholicmission.org.au/brighterfuture

12

SCAN THE QR CODE WITH A MOBILE DEVICE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

newcastleweekly.com.au

LEARN FOR FUN ENROL NOW FOR TERM 4

Choose from a huge range of affordable and interesting short courses.

With everything from tennis lessons to Italian cooking, Atwea offers fun courses that will help you spark your creativity, keep connected and stay active this summer.

Enrol or enquire 4925 4200 atwea.edu.au Atwea College is registered as COVIDSafe organisation with NSW Government.

WHAT'S ON

What’s On - October ART Newcastle’s inner city Playstate Curate Gallery will host a Graffiti Martini Paint and Sip event with artist Jordan Lucky on Friday 21 October from 7pm to 9pm. Spray cans, markers and paint will be the tools to bring a creative piece to life with the help of a delectable cocktail and advice from one of the city’s best street artists.

FILM Alliance Française de Newcastle will host its final French Friday film for 2022 with a screening of Hear Me Out at Events Cinema in Kotara on Friday 21 October.

The Little French Market starts at 6pm with savoury and sweet pastries for sale together with home-made preserves, cookbooks, handbags, jewellery, candles, and unique gifts, before the French film (with English subtitles) begins at 7pm.

FOOD AND WINE

King Edward Park is set to shine when the

The annual Boydell’s Picnic in the Vines

annual Cinema Under the Stars returns on

will be held across two days, Saturday 23

Saturday 22 October. The popular family-

and Sunday 24 October. Between 11am

friendly event will include the screening of

and 4.30pm, the East Gresford estate will

Sing 2 from 5pm as well as live music, free

welcome visitors to bring a picnic rug and

children’s activities, roving acts, popcorn,

their own fare, find a spot on the grass and

and an array of food vendors.

music, beer, pizza, tea and coffee.

RIDE The inaugural Ride 4 Rescue Hunter Valley

DANCE

will see mountain bikers of all skill levels take

On Sunday 23 October Newcastle’s Civic

on the tracks from Binnorie Dairy on Sunday

Theatre is set to come alive with dance as the

30 October. Riders aged 12 and older can

Royal Czech Ballet visits Australia for the first

choose from a 15km, 46km or 69km trail

time, performing the timeless classic Swan

through Lovedale and hit the pedals from

Lake. The venue will host two performances,

7am till 2pm, with proceeds going to the

from 2pm to 4pm and again from 7pm to 9pm.

Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

MOVE Walk, run, push, stroll or wheel your way along the region’s most popular track from Adamstown to Belmont in the annual Fernleigh 15 on Sunday 23 October. The recreational event is set to take participants along the 15km track from 6.30am, just for fun.

On Sunday 16 October, the city will host its annual Heartkids Australia Two Feet & A Heartbeat charity walk to support children impacted by congenital heart disease. Participants can choose between a 4km or 8km walk with money raised assisting children and families impacted by the disease. The event begins at 9am at Thomas Halton Park.

14

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY BETHANY SARAH PHOTOGRAPHY; H EVENTS ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

enjoy some of its wine together with live

GARDENS The Bath House Garden in Oakhampton Heights is hosting an Open Day on Sunday 16 October, welcoming members of the public through its gates from 10am to 4pm. The Hunter Valley venue is expected to inspire and educate green thumbs of all ages, showcasing the four acres of manicured garden that also featured in the 2022 TV series of Farmer Wants a Wife.

SONG Morpeth Gallery and the Underground Opera Company will be present Operarte on Friday

AGRICULTURE

ON THE WATER

The 68th Morisset Lake Macquarie

Locals and visitors alike are invited to

Cathedral. Songs, performed by some of

Agricultural Show and Rodeo Program will

experience the MV Steve Irwin until Sunday

Australia’s best opera singers, will be begin at

take place on Saturday 15 and Sunday

30 October. Now a retired hero of the Sea

7.30pm and be accompanied by a backdrop

16 October at the Morisset Showground.

Shepherd fleet, the infamous and colourful

of Gordon Hanley’s artworks and timelapse

Pony rides, fire displays, arts and crafts,

vessel is docked in Carrington while it looks

photography.

whip cracking and sheep shearing displays

for a new home, possibly in Newcastle.

and a ute muster will be accompanied by

People can board the vessel for 1.5-hour

Hope Estate on Saturday 29 October. It will be

showbags, wood chopping and daschund

encounter, including a ship tour and light

one of just five the world-renowned tenor will

racing events from 8.30am each day.

show project.

headline during his Australian tour.

28 October at Newcastle’s Christ Church

Andrea Bocelli will perform at The Valley’s

A night to remember packed with songbirds and showgirls, disco divas and opera arias, burlesque twirlers and go-go groovers!

newcastleweekly.com.au

15

LOREM IPSUM

“I’ve always just been Brittney from Newcastle” Photos Daina Marie Article Rebecca Riddle

16

newcastleweekly.com.au

Brittney Lee Saunders with her partner AJ.

COVER STORY

“I’m a curvier girl myself and I know how hard it is to find a pair of jeans that fit in all the right places.” herself talking to the camera about teenage life, Brittney soon gained a cult-like following.

“YouTube was just coming out,” she says.

“We had MySpace, but social media was just starting to get popular.

“This was before Instagram, TikTok and Snapchat.”

Brittney was 14 years old at the time.

“It was all a bit of fun back then; you just recorded a video of yourself, and you uploaded it,” she said.

It’s a pastime she’d begun well before her teenage years, recording videos of herself chatting about her life using the webcam atop her desktop computer before she hit double-digits.

“It wasn’t for any reason, making the videos on movie maker was just a creative outlet for me,” she added.

But, by the time she started high school, online sharing platforms had joined the world wide web and Brittney’s chats expanded to include music videos her and friends made during sleepovers.

I

So began her YouTube journey, an experience she admits wasn’t always a

f you asked 29-year-old Brittney Lee

Spend more than half-an-hour with the

Saunders to describe herself in three

effervescent creative and you’ll soon learn

words she might be inclined to choose

that what sets her apart from others is that

and the kids in my year were starting to

“random”, “chatty” or even “bogan”.

she possesses an energy that is

make fun of me, telling me I was weird,”

But, the vivacious blonde is actually so

seemingly contagious.

she said.

much more than these three ingredients.

Since the publishing of seemingly

She is not afraid of change, she harbours no self-doubt, and she is driven by the

endless YouTube videos throughout her

enthusiasm she creates, and others

teenage years, Brittney has become the

respond to.

businesswoman behind several successful brands - all based in her hometown of Newcastle.

Brittney amassed a whopping 1.04 million followers on YouTube by posting videos of her everyday teenage life.

Fast-forward six years and she is now the founder of Fayt Label, Fayt Label Store,

“Everything I’ve ever done has just come from one of my random ideas,” she says.

“I believe things happen because they’re meant to.

“Maybe people have just come along for the ride because I’m consistent and I’m relatable.”

It’s been this way since the former

Form Active, Staple Swim, Outdo Collective,

Newcastle High School student learned

Outdo Espresso and Flamingo Coffee.

she had a knack for entertaining strangers

Yet, despite being rumoured to be worth more than $5 million, Brittney knows how to “keep it real”. newcastleweekly.com.au

via a new online platform that was gaining momentum at the time - YouTube.

By creating and posting online videos of

positive one.

“Back then I was the only kid doing that

“In their defence the videos were weird, I don’t blame them for picking on me.”

Brittany was asked by school staff to remove the videos from online.

But, she continued, until she dropped out of school in Year 11.

“I wasn’t interested in any subjects, or going to university, or having a career that needed further study... I just wanted to start working,” Brittney said.

And, she did, trying her hand at everything from hospitality to retail, hairdressing to office admin.

“I never stayed in a job for longer than five minutes honestly,” she recalls with a laugh.

All while she continued making YouTube videos, by 18 they became more tutorial 17

LOREM IPSUM

“People used to call me a bogan and I’d be like ‘is that such a bad thing?’, haven’t we all got a bit of bogan in us.”

She was sent products to review and was fussy about which ones she promoted.

All the while she was amassing a league of followers.

“I think it was being consistent and having

technique sharing.

“I wasn’t any good at doing makeup at all but that’s when the beauty guru era came to life online,” she said.

By the time she turned 21, Brittney Lee Saunders had 80,000 subscribers when

I made a website, did some designs, and sourced the packaging,” she said.

“I’ve always just been Brittney from Yet sharing your teenage years and early twenties under the constant scrutiny

YouTuber is transitioning and cementing her

Criticism is something the confident young woman has always had a knack of surviving.

“People used to call me a bogan and I’d

In 2017 Brittney launched Fayt the Label, an Australian-based fashion clothing brand

talk about products before and after

retailing an array of items

their videos, but I had no idea what an

sized 6 to 24.

Since the day she quit her job Brittney says she has never looked back.

“It all snowballed from there, it kept growing, I pumped out videos, vlogs,

“I knew the YouTube thing wasn’t going to be

place as a savvy business tycoon, now with a team of 20.

She has aptly named the space that houses her headquarters Outdo.

“I called it Outdo because I felt like I was out doing myself with it. It’s a beautiful white space that can be transformed into anything,” she said.

And, the name FAYT (pronounced fate).

“I believe things

forever, I knew it wasn’t

happen because they’re

sustainable,” she said.

meant to,” Brittney said.

“After making videos for

I made makeup videos, videos of me

other people’s brands,

trying on clothes, trying international

I wanted to do the same

candy, whatever.”

for my own.”

18

Then from her garage to a store in

smooth sailing.

we all got a bit of bogan in us,” she said.

‘influencer’ was.”

googled it – the internet is amazing.”

Maryville and now King Street, the former

her full-time career.

“I knew people were getting paid to

“Seriously, people ask me all the time ‘how did you learn all this stuff?’, I just

of a million strangers can’t always be

be like ‘is that such a bad thing?’, haven’t

at the time,” she explained.

“We went down to Bunnings and got five tubs, we thought that would be enough.

trying to be someone else online,” she said.

her boss suggested she make YouTube “I didn’t even know what that meant

from the internet.

a personality people could relate to, never

Newcastle.” in nature as she tried her hand at makeup

Launching from her own garage, she began a business plan she’d sourced entirely

“I think the number one thing that stops people from doing anything they want in life is just fear. newcastleweekly.com.au

COVER STORY Brittney celebrates the launch of her FAYT Label, with plans to unveil a store in every Australian city.

“It’s the way the world is, we’re all so worried about what other people think of us and the way we look, or a decision we made, what are my friends and family going to think.

“I put a lot of love into every piece I design, and I try to think of every woman.”

She has grown and she has changed, and she has allowed her followers to join her on

“But, honestly, ever since I started making those videos in high school and not caring about what others think, this has been a progressive journey for me and I’m so glad for it all.”

that journey, but Brittney admits she feels there is still so much more for her to achieve.

“I don’t know where I’ll be in a year, I never know,” she said.

“A year ago, I didn’t know I’d be here,

In November, Brittney will open the doors to her inaugural Sydney store – a retail space at Westfield Miranda.

doing this, you just have to go on the journey, make random decisions and go with it.

“I always tell people around me they have

It is the first step towards her dream of seeing Fayt the label in every Australian city.

Her other commitment is to size.

“Most shops stop at size 14 which makes no sense at all because the average Australian woman is size 16,” she said.

“Yes, size 16 - that means we all go this way, or that way, from size 16.

to be open to change, it keeps life fun.

“I’d like to normalise changing your mind about things. It shouldn’t be frowned upon.”

From teen YouTuber to businesswoman in six years, what does her own evolution look like?

“I’m going to become the mayor of Newcastle,” Brittney said.

“Do I need to go to university to do that?

“I’m a curvier girl myself and I know how hard it is to find a pair of jeans that fit in all

NEW BIKE FOR CHRISTMAS!

the right places.

Can I just do the fun parts? I’ll have to ask the mayor if she needs someone to take over.”

•

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newcastleweekly.com.au

Drawn on December 4th 2022 at The Newcastle Toy Run Family Fun Day, Wickham Park, Albert Street, Wickham.

Charitable Fund Raising Authority 17410

Standing Committee Meeting

10 October 2022

Ordinary Council Meeting

31 October 2022

Standing Committee Meeting

14 November 2022

Ordinary Council Meeting

28 November 2022

Standing Committee Meeting

5 December 2022

Ordinary Council Meeting

12 December 2022

19

ART

Snape’s Allusive Object wins art prize “I have been developing inflated works for

Lake Art Prize with his creation

nearly 10 years now and really got to perfect my

Allusive Object.

craft during the lockdowns where I added the

The Lake Macquarie artist took home the

coveted title ahead of 65 other finalists.

The theme of this year’s annual competition was the vessel: contained within and moving between, with Snape’s work representing the endless portal of the universe.

After taking a decade to form, using temperature to buckle and shape inflated metal, Snape’s work was described by judges as "a commanding piece".

“It has a great play on light as the object is a dark space so it uses light to encompass an

PHOTOGRAPHY LAKE MAC CITY COUNCIL; DEAN BELETICH ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

B

raddon Snape has won the 2022

aspect of light into the artwork,” he says.

“The artwork is three parts of stainless steel, which is inflated by cold air with a lot of pressure to make it blow out and buckle.

“The artwork is three parts of stainless steel, which is inflated by cold air with a lot of pressure to make it blow out and buckle.”

area that is bigger than itself and, for us, this really spoke about that theme of a vessel in a

“There’s a special personal satisfaction

really unique way,” said judge Brett Adlington.

[in winning] because I’m a Lake Macquarie-

Snape’s work was one of 390 entries in the

born person, so it kind of feels like people

$25,000 Lake Art Prize - one of the richest

have finally recognised who I am in the place

acquisitive art prizes in regional NSW.

where I came from.”

Entries included artworks by established and emerging artists, from across the country.

For Snape, this win holds a special meaning.

20

Allusive Object will be on display at the Museum of Art and Culture (MAC), yapang, until Sunday 11 December.

•

newcastleweekly.com.au

BUSINESS

Small Cessnock real estate wins big at prestigious state awards

T

he team at LJ Hooker Cessnock is still

“We hope that we make you proud.

in celebration mode after winning a

“A huge congratulations go to the other

major prize at the 2022 REINSW

finalists, too.”

Awards for Excellence.

The REINSW Awards for Excellence continues

The local outfit took home the Real Estate

to be the most prestigious and respected

Agency – Small category at the event, which

ceremony in the state,

recognises outstanding achievements

acknowledging the “best

throughout the industry.

of the best” in the real

Principal Bryce Gibson admitted the triumph was a career highlight.

received a winner’s trophy, they should be incredibly proud of their achievement."

•

estate sector.

Peter Matthews said it

a pleasure to lead the amazing hard-working

celebrated those who’d

and dedicated crew,” he said.

“really gone that extra

“I would like to thank the team for the

mile despite such trying

amazing work it does within our local ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

category was extremely tough. For those who

REINSW president

“Being a family-owned and run business, it is

times”.

community, as well as my wife Mellissa. Without

“Yet again, we were

her guidance, behind the scenes and mentoring,

impressed by the

this award wouldn’t have been possible.

number of entrants

“It would be remiss of me not to mention

into the Awards for

Matilda and Bronte either, our two girls who

Excellence, in spite a

often spend a fair bit of time here at the office

year of unprecedented

with mum and dad.

challenges,” he explained.

Cessnock

Know your property’s worth in today’s market newcastleweekly.com.au

“With so many deserving nominees, choosing the top professional and agency for each

Winner of the REINSW Awards For Excellence 2022 - Small Agency

84 Vincent Street Cessnock 02 4050 6000 cessnock@ljhooker.com.au

21

BUSINESS

Metricon’s Studio M space to host Open House event at Hamilton

H

amilton is home to a new $5 million design centre that will be open for inspection later this month.

The facility, located at 27 Donald Street, will

allow home builders a chance to take a sneak peek at their living space well before a single brick has been laid.

Described as a contemporary, interactive space, the 1000m2 area offers personalised and customised creative solutions, without the need to travel the M1 to Sydney.

To kickstart its standing in the Hunter, the space, aptly named Studio M, will host an open Between 10am and 1pm, visitors will be welcomed with an array of fun activities, expert advice, and the opportunity to experience first-

dream home with us and see what really is

also build small-scale installations and now

hand the process of design selection.

possible,” says Metricon’s NSW GM Patrick

members of the public will get to feel, see and

Eather.

touch products in a way that brings them to life.

“We have an immersive and memorable morning planned – giving members of the

“There are so many choices when building

“There's nowhere else in Newcastle where

Hunter community a taste of what they can

your new Metricon home. We felt it was

you'll find this variety of product under one

expect should they wish to personalise their

important to not only display product, but to

roof.”

22

•

newcastleweekly.com.au

ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

day event on Saturday 15 October.

LIFESTYLE

Off the Beaten Track The Hunter is peppered with perfect picnic possies - many with views to die for.

From the ever-popular King Edward Park to Foreshore Park, Speers Point Park, and Blackbutt Reserve. But what about the lesser-known spots – the Hunter’s hidden gems. Newcastle photographer David Diehm shares his favourite places to lay out a blanket and soak up the scene.

HUNTER LOOKOUT, HEATON STATE FOREST As a family we love exploring and connecting with nature, so for us a bushwalk and picnic as a family is a regular weekend occurrence. We enjoy getting off the beaten path a little and finding new places. Our kids really enjoy spending time in the bush, and we enjoy watching them learn and connect with Mother Nature. For that reason, Hunter Lookout is one of our favourite locations to visit. The bush and bird sounds here are relaxing and the vistas out over the Hunter Valley, Pokolbin Range and lower Barringtons is just spectacular.

LEGGY POINT LOOP (ELVIS ROCK), GLENROCK STATE CONSERVATION AREA The popular Leichhardt’s Lookout sits high above Flaggy Creek with views that span out across the lagoon. My favourite vantage point in Glenrock is one you’re not going to find marked on a map.

Starting just above the Scout Camp, taking the Leggy Point Loop walking track you emerge at a large rocky outcrop sitting high on the southern side of the lagoon. Named Elvis Rock, the location offers expansive views out over the lagoon and to the northeast.

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID DIEHM ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

A favourite sunrise location on a perfect summer’s morning.

GREEN POINT RESERVE – SEA EAGLE LOOKOUT, VALENTINE, LAKE MACQUARIE This is a local vantage point for us, with no shortage of room for the kids to run around and play. Green Point Reserve is also a spot that provides a breathtaking panoramic view to the southwest of Lake Macquarie and relatively close to home.

As a family we love trying to spot the local sea eagle whenever we’re visiting this magical spot.

newcastleweekly.com.au

23

RECIPE

UK COMEDY MASTER HYPNOTIST PETER POWERS

BINGO

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursdays 11am

MEAT AND VOUCHER RAFFLES

Thursdays and Fridays 6.30pm, Sundays 6pm

COUNTRY LINE DANCING CLASSES Tuesdays 6.30pm

LEARN TO ROCK N ROLL DANCE Sundays 7.15pm

Barbecue Prawns with Nduja Butter RECIPE FROM CHEF STEVE SCOTT, THE LUCKY HOTEL Spring is the perfect time to fire up the barbecue and eat outdoors. It is also the best time to impress guests with a dish containing King Prawns.

Newcastle chef Steve Scott recommends getting your hands on the largest you can find as the more time they spend on the grill - the more flavour they absorb. Nduja is a spicy, spreadable salami from Italy’s southern region that Scott says gives a great little kick to the flavour of the prawns.

Serves 3–4 as a starter or 2 as a main Ingredients 8-10 large size king prawns – peeled and deveined, heads and tails left on 250g unsalted butter – softened 125g nduja 1 tsp sea salt flakes

BLUE WATER COWBOYS Sunday, 30th October 2pm

REDBACK COUNTRY MUSIC CLUB Wednesdays 6pm

To view more events, and for more info visit westonworkers.com.au 1 Government Rd, Weston NSW | 24

Juice of one lemon Method In a food processor blend together softened butter with the salt, nduja and lemon juice. You should achieve a light, airy, whipped butter consistency. Taste and add more salt or lemon if desired.

Meanwhile, get your prepped prawns ready with a good hit of sea salt and olive oil, then place them on the hottest part of your barbecue, turn as needed so they don’t burn and ensuring you get good colour all over, your average large size prawn will take about 6-7 minutes, you want them just cooked in the middle.

While the prawns are on, gently heat the nduja butter in a good size saucepan until its starts to bubble and foam slightly.

Arrange your prawns on a large plate garnished with some wild rocket. Generously spoon over the hot melted butter.

Finish with a squeeze of lemon and some fresh baguette to catch all the extra juices. newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY DAVID GRIFFEN PHOTOGRAPHY, THE LUCKY HOTEL

Saturday, 15th October 7:30pm Tickets $35pp

FOOD

Goodness Greatness, it's Banana Blossom in the city

I

ts motto is "Goodness Greatness" and that’s

anything, the pair behind

and Andrew Greentree are hoping to bring to

Newcastle’s Hunter Street

their east end corner of Newcastle, when they

venture are sure to win over

open Banana Blossom Salads later this month.

hungry customers.

Already a name synonymous with Sydney

PHOTOGRAPHY REBECCA RIDDLE ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

If enthusiasm counts for

exactly what new franchisees Emily O’Brien

The parents of three

and Central Coast crowds for its fresh,

young girls, Emily and Andrew

flavoursome, nourishing menu items, the pair is

are leaving behind their roles in

hoping Novocastrians will embrace the Asian-

education and tree management for

inspired goodness, too.

a whole new challenge.

They are the latest custodians of the brand

A maturing of sorts, the duo say they are

that was born in 2003 by husband-and-wife

ready to sink their teeth into a business they

duo Ben and Nat Thomas - Sydneysiders who

believe is long-overdue in the former steel city.

combined his food background with her Thai heritage.

In fact, Banana Blossom’s famous Triple Chilli dressing recipe dates back centuries to Nat’s great-grandmother who served the

Banana Blossom is a brand they both admit they are passionate about and have been since

dish he warns is not for the faint-hearted. This

they became regular customers while working

spicy bowl includes rice noodles, cucumber,

in the Northern Beaches.

bean sprouts, peanuts, deep-fried chilli, and

They’ve not only tried most of the dishes

delicious spicy treat more than 100 years ago

on the menu, but both openly admit to

in the village of Nakhon Si Thammarat in South

having a favourite.

Thailand.

From a successful restaurant to a quick-

For Emily, it's Tokyo Classic with chicken: green tea infused soba noodles, cucumber,

service store located in Mona Vale, Banana

cherry tomato, avocado, white sesame sweet

Blossom has grown to eight franchises across

soy dressing and chicken – the most popular

Sydney, one in Queensland, and soon to open

choice on the menu, she admits.

Newcastle and Terrigal. newcastleweekly.com.au

For Andrew, it’s the Triple Chilli with beef - a

spicy Thai chilli dressing tossed with beef.

It’s hard to say exactly how many items are available on the menu the pair says, as each salad can be made to order using any number of ingredients.

There is also the option to create a gluten free, vegetarian and/or vegan delight.

Banana Blossom Salads will open its doors at 196 Hunter Street on Saturday 29 October.

• 25

BEAUTY

N

UNMASKING A NEW AGE IN FACIAL TECHNOLOGY

atasha Grant has been working in the beauty industry for the past seven years.

Twenty-four months ago, the director and

discovered the benefits of Hydrojelly masks, a product she says has revolutionised traditional facials.

Esthemax Hydrojelly Masks are a new generation peel-off mask made predominately from algae. They rely on electrolyte technology to give the skin a blast of essential electrolytes, allowing additional moisture to be absorbed and retained.

Each masks contains different ingredients targeting different concerns, but each will

these work by adding water to powder to

undoubtably assist with dryness, fatigue

create a jelly-like consistency,” Natasha says.

and complexion.

“This is then applied over the entire face,

Natasha believes the gel masks are so popular because they offer each client a unique experience.

“Rather than the average brush on mask,

including the eyes and mouth, for 20 minutes.”

While the gel soaks deep into the pores of

deep relaxation.

Once the mask sets into a hard jelly it is then peeled off, mess free.

Applying jelly masks to 95% of their regular trade now, Natasha says on average her

the skin, Natasha says her and her team offer

team perform six of the popular facials every

their clients a scalp massage to help with

day of the week.

Saturday 12 November

OUR

Region

OUR

Town

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OUR

Race

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newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY MONARCH CREATIVE ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

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Yanna $89.95 Billini

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Bonjour Asymmetric Midi Dress $595 Aje 27

ENTERTAINMENT

C

omedian, radio announcer and social media sensation… exNovocastrian Tanya Hennessy is a

wearer of many hats.

And, this month, she added “playwright” to her resume, following the world debut

“We rode bikes, roller-bladed and went swimming until the sun went down.

“Oh… and we had street parties with our neighbours. Kids in our area would put on

what Stevie Louise is based on.

“I think walking the Warners Bay

force. She’s a content creator whose

esplanade just to get Kiwi ice-cream is a

comedic chops have earnt her a Facebook

favourite memory, too. You must get the

following in excess of 1.1 million, with her total

cream and fudge… MUST.

It’s not a bad effort from someone who

Bachelor, The Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise: Unpacked, guest-hosting on Studio

“Actually, that experience in Eleebana is

every day.

also a regular at Network 10, hosting The

10, The Loop and The Project.

“But, as children, we loved it.

views a staggering 550 million – and growing

Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, while she’s

retrospect would have been awful.

Louise, based on the best-selling book of the But, Hennessy’s not just a multi-platform

on The Morning Show, Today and I’m A

a Christmas show for everyone, which in

of her new play, Drum Roll Please it’s Stevie same name.

"Walking the Warners Bay esplanade just to get Kiwi ice-cream is a favourite memory."

“Also, shopping at Gardo (lol, not Kotara,

Never one to shy away from having a laugh at herself, she began her career as an actor/comic with a Bachelor of Arts Theatre/ Media from CSU and has undertaken courses at Screenwise and NIDA. Her funny and brutally honest online videos of everyday topics (Things People Say To Hairdressers, Things People Say To Personal

I’m old) with mum and my nan and eating at

Trainers) meant she’s built a worldwide

the David Jones cafeteria. I miss that place.

following, too.

hailed from the Hunter. Hennessy began

“Or, Bon Oz; I miss Bon Oz, as well.”

her radio career in 2012 with Southern Cross

In 2017, Hennessy’s rising star was

But, with the unveiling of Drum Roll Please it’s Stevie Louise: The Play at Maitland’s

Austereo at NXFM Newcastle. She followed

recognised when she won the Junkee Award

Upstage Youth Theatre earlier in October,

this with stints as a breakfast announcer in

for Breakthrough Artist, was nominated

Hennessy was keen to head back “home”.

Griffith, Toowoomba and Canberra.

for Cosmopolitan’s Woman of the Year,

During that time, she also had a segment

selected to perform at Australia’s first VidCon

on the Hit Network’s national show Scoopla

and won Best Radio Documentary at the

with Jules Lund and Emma Freedman.

Australian Commercial Radio Awards.

However, the 36-year-old hasn’t forgotten her roots either.

“Newy was the greatest, I love it,” she said.

heard around the country on the Hit Network

“Honestly, the best parts of growing up

as weekend breakfast host.

there were the fact that we could go to the beach or lake every weekend.

28

She followed this with a second ACRA in 2019. And, up until recently, she could be

In addition, Hennessy often features on national television shows with appearances

“I’m a theatre kid myself, having grown up in this world from a young age," she said. “[Director] Ann Croger, who owns Upstage Youth Theatre, was actually my drama teacher at high school.

“Then I worked for her as a drama teacher when I was a young adult.

“So, to return back to the stage that first sparked my passion for this crazy life I’ve ended up in, it feels so full circle.”

•

newcastleweekly.com.au

ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

Newcastle still firmly in Hennessy's heart

Big crowd expected to Stomp its way to Cessnock extravaganza

G

ood food, amazing wine and fun times

PHOTOGRAPHY CESSNOCK BUSINESS CHAMBER ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

are on the agenda when the Cessnock Stomp Festival makes its long-awaited

return this month.

The landmark event will see Vincent Street transformed into the Hunter Valley’s “biggest street party” on Sunday 30 October.

And, with more than 600m of food, wine, beer, spirits and a huge selection of market stalls, there’ll be something to see or do for everyone.

The extravaganza not only showcases the amazing cuisine and vino in the Hunter, but also the eclectic mix of retailers on Vincent Street.

Cessnock Business Chamber president Clint Ekert said it was great to welcome the festival back onto the local calendar.

“Stomp last took place in 2019 and attracted more than 17,000 people,” he explained.

“So, we’re expecting similar numbers in 2022.

“Our local businesses have gone through

Cessnock has to offer.

“This year, we have a massive kid’s zone

“The festival location means that in addition

with free entry, we’ve assembled an awesome

to the food, wine and markets, we are on the

line-up of entertainment, including the always-

a pretty tough couple of years, so we are

doorstep of in excess of 100 specialty stores,

popular Genr8 and, of course, the famous

inviting everyone to come along and see what

including some of the best coffee you will taste.

Draytons Family Wines Grape Stomping.”

•

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS THU 20 OCT 17:30 - 19:00

Experimental and Experiential: The Importance of Failure in Experimental Art Free - The Lock Up FRI 21 OCT FROM 19:30

Echoplay - An Evening of Underground Sounds

OCTOBER 2022

Free - The Rogue Scholar

Visit thisisnotart.org to see the full festival program and tickets

SUN 30 OCT 14:00 - 22:00

Supported by Newcastle Weekly This is Not Art is supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW

newcastleweekly.com.au

DIVERGE presented by Queer and Now (supported by the City of Newcastle) Tickets on sale now - Earp Distilling Co

29

GARDENING

Finding connection

A

home is crucial, Mark advises.

before summer entertaining kicks in, you might

back deck to the pool, adding a firepit or

have left your run a bit too late.

focal point to draw you into the garden, using

soaring material costs mean if you’re planning to redesign your garden

A connection to the key living areas of the Whether it be by creating a path from the

But, MUD Landscape Design director Mark

landscape lighting to accentuate a feature, or

Tisdell says there are ways to get your planning

building a retaining wall to encourage a “place

back on track and help re-focus your priorities

to enjoy a cup of tea in the sunshine”.

while defining what home means to you.

Having learned his craft by combining a Master of Architecture with almost a decade in landscaping experience, the Newcastle-based creative is apt at offering advice that suits the

Together with deliberate planting choices, climate factors and access considerations, living can be enhanced with the correct choices.

Here are Mark’s top tips to planning your garden design:

former steel city’s climate, as well as profile.

“Each room in your home caters toward a function of sorts, and that’s the same for your garden.”

architecture, Mark says establishing exactly

NUT OUT YOUR BRIEF

SEPARATE YOURSELF FROM THE SPACE

what function your garden space needs

List your must-haves in order of importance,

Most people are far too ingrained in the

to perform, needs to be addressed in the

understand your capacity, be it time or

rhythms of their site that they find it hard to

initial stages.

budget, or capabilities, or the capabilities

see it in other ways. Step back and look at

of those within your network.

your home and its surrounds in another way.

your home caters toward a function of sorts,

MEASURE OUT THE SPACE

DRAW

and that’s the same for your garden.”

Use a scaled drawing of your property

On tracing paper layer the space and

to understand its true size.

draw over the top, again and again until

And, when it comes to landscape

“The first question to ask: is how do you want to live in this space?” he says. “Each room in

“Design to the function. It’s fair to say that if someone has a poorly planned garden, it

you work out the key feature. Then you

doesn’t matter what size it is, if it’s unappealing

INSPIRATION

it will never be used, whereas someone might

Gather your inspirations, get on Pinterest,

have the smallest courtyard but if it’s functional

flick through sites, books, magazines,

MATERIAL SELECTION

it will be used regularly.”

wherever you source your ideas from.

Start selecting your palette. Choose your key

30

can work from there.

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY MUSE PHOTOGRAPHY; MYF GARVAN; JUSTIN AARON ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

COVID backlog, trade shortages and

element, the biggest, strongest element from your drawings it could be a wall, tiles, a zone – then choose three different materials maximum - don’t go too busy, keep it simple, let the key element sing.

FOCUS Only draw attention to something that is beautiful in the space. Only put effort into elements that will stand out and deserve the attention.

THEME The theme must be in keeping with the house; the same textures, same materials, same colour palette. This makes it feel consistent and considered thought.

CONSIDER SCALE Plants can be both masculine and feminine and a space may need both for balance.

Masculine-looking plants are hard, feminine are soft and beautiful.

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PETS

Hop into bunny love

Rabbits are social and curious animals, who can make fantastic companions.But, contrary to popular belief, they are not an “easy” first pet for a child. RSPCA NSW has shared some tips: should serve as a temporary enclosure for your rabbits and a safe place to sleep. If

exercise in a safe, protected grassy area

your rabbits are kept in a hutch, it must be

every day.

attached to a run with plenty of space for

Rabbits are a social species and should

them to jump, sit/stand upright, exercise

not be kept alone; or without at least one

and express normal rabbit behaviours. Your

RABBITS EAT A LOT MORE THAN JUST CARROTS

other rabbit with whom they are

rabbits will also need at least a few hours a

Rabbits are herbivores and grazers; and

compatible. Generally, they should live

day of exercise outside of their hutch and run.

need to have a constant supply of grass or

as part of a bonded pair. This is a process

grass hay to chew. Grass/hay should make

successful, will hugely improve your rabbits’

RABBITS JUST WANT TO HAVE FUN

quality of life. It is important that the rabbits

Rabbits are intelligent animals that need

the day also helps keep your rabbit’s teeth

are desexed to prevent them producing

plenty of exercise and room to run around

worn down and can prevent dental disease.

lots of babies.

to keep them mentally and physically

Rabbits should also have plenty of fresh leafy

stimulated. You should make their

greens and vegetables, such as broccoli,

environment as interesting as possible and

spinach, Brussel sprouts, celery and others.

A common misconception about rabbits is

provide opportunities for running, jumping

You can offer a small quantity of high-quality

that they’re able to be housed in a hutch

and digging on a daily basis.

pellets (no more than 5% of your rabbits’

all the time. This is not the case. A hutch

Ideally, your rabbit will have the chance to

diet), too.

that takes some time and patience but, if

A HUTCH IS NOT A HOME

up 80% of your rabbits’ diet and is vital for gut health. Chewing continuously throughout

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PHOTOGRAPHY ASWATHY N, UNSPLASH ARTICLE ROD THOMPSON

RABBITS NEED THE COMPANIONSHIP OF OTHER RABBITS

L AB

E FOR AD

OP

ON TI

For the chance to have your furry friend featured, tag us in your pet’s pics on Instagram #newcastleweekly

AV AI L

Pets of the month

MARC THE ENGLISH SPOT RABBIT Marc is an English Spot rabbit, about 2–3 years old. He is a social bunny who LOVES people, the more attention the better! He is very gentle when picked up and doesn't scratch.

Marc even enjoys climbing up and sitting on people's backs.

This bunny loves his food and

HANNA NEWELL-GOTHARD THE BOXER

ELLIE THE BEAGLE

zooming around outside his pen

Ellie is a sweet 15-year-old beagle who

- briefly stopping to say hi to any

Hanna is always smiling. She is always full

loves being around people. She is a big fan

of energy, loves EVERYBODY, and comes

of sniffing and has a sneaky little habit of

complete with hilarious antics.

always being able to find herself food and

Not much phases him - not even

neighboring bunnies and then zooming some more!

extra treats. In her later years, Ellie has

the noise of the vacuum cleaner.

Favourite activities: Playing with other dogs,

become a lady of leisure and spends

Marc is searching for his forever

meeting everyone, playing with water,

most of her time napping.

home, is it with you?

running (by “running” we mean galloping and sprinting), hanging out with her cats and

Favourite activities: Loves to go for walks,

chooks, wrestling and giving kisses (licks).

take naps in all different kinds of places (she

Favourite toy: Her humans, squeaky rubber

likes to follow the sun) and seeks attention

koala, tug-of-war rope.

from anyone and everyone.

Favourite treat: Any foods.

Favourite toy: Any soft toy she can nap on.

Special talent: 360’ jumps in the air, and

Favourite treat: Sweet potato chews.

endless energy, unusual sleeping positions.

Special talent: Finding food when and

To find out more about Marc, visit: rabbitsanctuary.com.au/bunnies and search under Newcastle and Lake Macquarie regions

where she shouldn’t.

PETER PAN THE COCKER SPANIEL Peter Pan is a water addict and can not be trusted around any body of water… not even a dog bowl! He is also ballobsessed, a sock thief, and an expert snuggler with a smile that lights up a room.

Favourite activities: Chasing his ball, snuggling,smooches and swimming, swimming swimming.

Favourite toy: Loves to play with his ball, stick or Rexy (Dinosaur).

Favourite treat: Chicken.

Special talent: He can say I love you and good morning. He can also give you a high five.

newcastleweekly.com.au

33

HOME

Rewild Your Home by Victoria Harrison $35 Betty Loves Books

Robert Gordon Ritual Coffee Set Sage Green $129.95 Myer

Venosa 1 Seat Sofa $2,599 Eureka Furniture

CONTEMPORARY COUNTRY

Creating warmth and solace in a home commands the use of textures, neutral tones and stand-out features. With the seemingly effortless inclusion of contemporary art, the offer of plenty of seating options, smooth benchtops and an array of light-filled reading nooks, country homesteads can ooze both comfort and style in abundance. The secret is in combining elements that need to be touched into spaces that deserve to be shared.

WITH EMILY CARR AND NICOLE SHELLEY 34

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Holly Dining Table $599 Early Settler Ceramic Oil Bottle $49.95 Pillow Talk

Pink Potted Multi Stem Orchid $219 Temple & Webster

Bastion Oak Dining Chair Black $249 Early Settler Ngapa Jukurrpa II Canvas Art Print $669 Urban Road

Akira Coffee Table $699 Brosa

Rodney Vessel 1 White $139 Moral Store

Perfecto Handwoven Linen Floor Cushion $229.95 Eadie Lifestyle

Apothecary Hand Wash $65 Monsoon Living

Marlow Bouclé Curve 3 Seater Sofa $2,599 Castlery

newcastleweekly.com.au

35

Villas available now

Set on 17 acres of lush rural land, Cooranbong Gardens offers the lifestyle you deserve.

This brand new boutique retirement community is placed perfectly between the pristine shores of Lake Macquarie and the magnificent Watagan Mountains.

Offering a selection of 2 and 3 bedroom spacious floor plans, with single or double garaging, we know that we can meet your every need.

Designed to provide you with all the facilities you need to bring variety to each day and

connect with other residents, The Gardens Pavilion will boast a relaxing lounge area, cafe and dining room, library, bar and snooker room, beauty salon, movie theatre, Indoor heated pool and hydrotherapy pool, outdoor covered BBQ area and bowling green. These facilities are an extension of your home and an ideal place to entertain your family and friends.

Stages 1, 2, 3 and 4 are now complete and sold out, with stage 5 under construction.

For further information email Zac at sales@cooranbonggardens.com.au

HOMES RANGING FROM 190 TO 236SQM

PROPERTY

Suburb Profile: Kahibah Postcode: 2290 LGA: Lake Macquarie

HISTORY

place of games, this Lake Macquarie

The current suburb of Kahibah has no

suburb is home to 39 streets, with a

traditional connection to the Awabakal

mini-commercial hub at its heart. Sitting on

word or its actual locality. The site at Marks

the edge of Glenrock State Conservation Area,

Point is said to have been a place where

the former bushland is fast becoming a trendy

running and hunting games were held in

shopping strip, thanks to the introduction of

traditional times and was a ceremonial

new eateries.

corroboree site.

Boasting its own primary school, childcare,

Kahibah became home to a railway

Anglican church, public playground, grocery

station when the 1880-built coal rail line

SCHOOLS

store and bowls club, as well as several hair and

that ran from Adamstown to Redhead,

Kahibah Public School, founded in 1938.

beauty outlets, Kahibah sits atop a rise that

was extended to Belmont via Kahibah in

offers space for all to meet on a warm evening.

1916. The rail line closed to all coal traffic

REAL ESTATE

The suburb’s main street, Glebe Street, is home

in December 1992 and has since been

Median house price $1,150,000 (up 29.9% in

to several businesses including a post office,

redeveloped into a pedestrian shared

the past 12 months).

bakery, bottle shop, hairdressers, beauticians,

pathway known as The Fernleigh Track.

butchers and podiatrist.

Perhaps the suburb’s only downfall is it tends

FOOD AND DRINK

to confuse drivers with its dog-leg intersection

• Sherwood Coffee Bar

on the corner of Hexham, Kahibah and

• The Little Boy

Wallsend streets - just ask a local.

• Hilltop Fish and Chips

SO LD

SO LD

Median unit price $802,000 (up 21.4% in the past 12 months).

There are currently eight homes for sale in Kahibah, 35 sold in the past 12 months.

Homes spend an average of 23 days on market before they are sold.

SO LD

2/7 KENIBEA AVENUE, KAHIBAH

3 bed 1 bath 4 car 445.8m2

13 NEWCASTLE CRESCENT, KAHIBAH

$1,100,000

4 bed 2 bath 4 car 2,738m2

Villa

Sold on 21 Sep 2022

$1,450,000

$640,000

Brooke Degotardi, Shiels and Co.

Sold on 02 Sep 2022

Sold on 28 Sep 2022

Paul Mcallister, Altitude Real Estate

Dave Lane, Lane Campos

37 BURWOOD STREET, KAHIBAH

38

2 bed 1 bath 1 car

newcastleweekly.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY SHERWOOD COFFEE, REBECCA RIDDLE ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

P

ronounced ky-yee-bah, meaning

We will bring more buyers to the table so you have more options Sell with Robinson and get the results you deserve.

Scan the code today to find out how much your property is worth.

4902 7222 I robinsonproperty.com.au

PROPERTY OF THE MONTH

Dungog acreage could get your dreams back on track Its real estate agent describes it as "a tourism venue with a difference".

Resting in a township famed for its railway that first opened in 1911, this unique accommodation site offers a range of getaway options, all in keeping with the landscape and heritage.

4426 CLARENCE TOWN ROAD, WIRRAGULLA Surrounded by soaring gum trees, and spanning four paddocks, guests can choose from an array of accommodation options at this rural address.

There are enough beds to suit singles, families and friends.

Visitors can select one of the four rattler carriage stays and reminisce on the era of train travel or opt for one of two spa cabins overlooking the countryside.

A shared vegetable patch, inground pool, onsite commercial kitchen and cool room, restaurant, function room and open-air chapel with its own wedding bell, mean this property could allow its buyer to tap into the coveted wedding industry – with no guests left behind.

And, imagine all the puns you can use in your tourism brochure urging visitors to "get on board".

All this less than eight minutes from the township of Dungog, which is famed for its walking and cycling trails, quaint shops and hidden treasures.

Accommodation options include red rattler carriages offering four or six-berth accommodation, kitchenette, bathroom, lounge and dining, as well as spa cabins offering open plan kitchenette, dining and lounge, bathroom with spa bath, verandahs overlooking the countryside.

14

8

6

3.14HA

FOR SALE $1.8 MILLION | AUCTION 3 NOVEMBER 40

newcastleweekly.com.au

Looking to sell or lease your property? Call us today!

WE WORK WITH PROPERTY OWNERS, BUYERS AND RESIDENTS TO FIND, NURTURE, GROW AND PROTECT THEIR INVESTMENTS

hello@greenstreet.com.au | greenstreet.com.au

PROPERTY

Quality the key in Macquarie Hills makeover Given the current trade and building materials shortage, and rising costs, buyers might want to consider choosing a family home in which the work has recently been done - and done well.

32 DALMENY DRIVE, MACQUARIE HILLS Tucked neatly between Warners Bay, Cardiff and Glendale is this entertainer’s delight that promises its owners little fuss thanks to a fresh renovation.

Stylish, modern and contemporary are all words that come to mind when you see this five-bedroom beauty that offers plenty of entertaining space, a swimming pool and a bush backdrop.

"Neat as a pin" is another term you might choose, and it’s all thanks to a renovator with an eye for detail. Neutral tones, plush carpet, timber flooring, as well as tapware and tiling that’s ontrend, all in a suburb that’s central to sport, school and shops.

5

4

2

670.5M²

FOR SALE $1.495 MILLION

Apartments the real hero in Honeysuckle It sold after being on the market just 15 days and it fetched $50,000 more than its price guide. And, while some market analysts insist on painting a picture of gloom and doom in the real estate industry, Newcastle agent Thomas Hook says apartment living is continuing to shine as the hero home concept.

602/25 HONEYSUCKLE DRIVE, NEWCASTLE In this case it was a couple of local retirees wanting to downsize from their expansive suburban block, but Hook says it's often hobby farmers from the Hunter Valley wanting a city base or those who can’t afford beachside living but would love a water aspect. Either way, Honeysuckle is tempting buyers from all over the region who want to park the car in a secured apartment block and walk to everything the CBD has to offer, all along the water’s edge.

And, while this top floor, penthouse apartment boasting a double lock-up garage was an extraordinary option, Mr Hook says colleagues are already closing in on a deal on a similar-sized apartment on level one – this time just days after first advertising it.

3

2

2

166M2

SOLD $2.8 MILLION 42

newcastleweekly.com.au

Turning over a NU Leaf in the Hunter Valley After pouring her energy into creating a space that could heal others, Nu Leaf Retreat owner Sarah Polson is now taking a step back to replenish. The impressive 14-acre rural property that she transformed into a health retreat over the past six years is now in need of a new custodian.

647 HERMITAGE ROAD, POKOLBIN Boasting a 10-bedroom guesthouse, gym, indoor hydrotherapy pool, day spa, commercial kitchen, conferencing facilities, landscaped inground outdoor pool, boutique vineyard, machinery, shedding and sprawling country homestead sitting on 5.67 hectares, this address is a blank canvas, or a walk-in-ready profitable business.

It seems it's up to the buyer as to how much they want to make of what is already on-site.

Sarah saw a wellness retreat in her vision for the property. During her tenure, she managed to secure regular bookings for Pilates and yoga retreats, day spa, boutique accommodation and conferences.

13

14

10

5.67HA

FOR SALE $5 MILLION

Buying the builder's home in Mount Hutton It was the builder’s forever home that had never been on the market.

Constructed using quality materials, hands-on labour and a lot of love, this 35-year-old home was sold by private treaty at the weekend for a figure well above the suburb average of $785,000.

5 AUKLET ROAD, MOUNT HUTTON Advertised as a great family home, complete with an inground lagoon pool - just in time for summer, this Auklet Road home sits atop a rise and boasts views that stretch beyond rooftops to Charlestown and neighbouring bushland. And, thanks to the timber deck that wraps around the home, the vista can be enjoyed from several vantage points.

A four-car garage with a workshop area that could store an array of tools, would suit any tradie - unless of course the kids get to it first and transform it into an enviable games room. We can only guess what the new owners have planned for this well-built beauty.

4

2

4

715M2

SOLD $965,000 newcastleweekly.com.au

43

TRADES & SERVICES

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TAKE A TOUR WITH US Aldinga Tours DAY TOURS

CINDERELLA THE MUSICAL 30th November, 2022 • Cost: $120pp Award winning Broadway musical by Rodgers & Hammerstein.

JOSEPH & THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOUR DREAMCOAT 15th Feb & 22nd Mar, 2023 • Cost: $130pp Includes Luxury Coach Travel & Theatre Ticket.

AUSTRALIA DAY SYDNEY HARBOUR CRUISE 26th January, 2023 • Cost: $210pp Includes 3 1/2 Hour Buffet Lunch cruise (including drinks) & coach.

EXTENDED TOURS

YOUNG AT CHERRY TIME 2nd– 4th December 2022 Cost: $740pp • Single Supp $200 extra

AVALON AIR SHOW 2nd– 7th March 2023 Cost: $1595pp/ts • Single Supp $450 extra

OP SHOP BARGAIN HUNT 15th– 18th March 2023 Cost: $1120 pp/ts • Single Supp $300 extra

NORFOLK ISLAND 26th March– 3rd April 2023 Cost: $3895pp/ts • Single Supp $780 extra

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER SHOW 27th March– 1st April 2023 Cost: $1950pp/ts • Single Supp $550 extra

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Family owned and operated Over 28 years experience Contact office 4950 5050 PAUL & BARB enquiry@aldingatours.com.au

Your Personalised Travel Companion www.aldingatours.com.au 44

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MY FAVOURITE THINGS

SAILING As the daughter of a merchant seaman, for many years sailing was a favourite part of my life. I've sailed on racing yachts, clippers, windjammers, and tall ships throughout the world.

Being suspended across the bowsprit net under full sail is exhilarating although sailing through the Strait of Malacca under piracy high-alert was something I wouldn't recommend - I genuinely thought my husband and I weren't going to make it through that experience alive.

ARTISTS

Lauretta Morton

PHOTOGRAPHY LAURETTA MORTON ARTICLE REBECCA RIDDLE

Lauretta is the first female director in Newcastle Art Gallery's 65-year history.

Born in London, she emigrated to Australia as a young child with her parents, older sister and brother.

Throughout her life, visual arts and leadership have been driving forces.

At 16, Lauretta was the youngest student to be accepted into Art School.

She is an Alumni of the University of Sydney, Macquarie University and University of Oxford.

"I feel so fortunate to be in a position where I can support and advocate for artists and the broader gallery and Museum profession,” she told the Newcastle Weekly.

“Providing opportunities for artists and cultural practitioners to foster and grow their careers is at the core of everything that I do, it is important to me to give back wherever I can.

"When I'm not working at the art gallery, I love to visit other art galleries and museums, there is always something new to learn and experience."

A favourite quote from American artist Robert Motherwell completely sums it up for me: "Art is much less important than life, but what a poor life without it".

Lauretta was awarded the Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia in recognition of "outstanding and meritorious service" to the museums and galleries sector in this year's 2022 Australia Day Honours. newcastleweekly.com.au

I have so many "pinch me moments" working with artists that I greatly admire. It was such an honour to be asked this year to "sit" for a portrait by one of my favourite local artists Rachel Milne.

One of my favourite works of art in the Newcastle Art Gallery collection is Life Burst 1964 by our city's own national treasure, John Olsen AO OBE. No matter how many times I see it - I can't help but feel immense joy at its boldly coloured, swirling, life force - much like the artist himself!

BOOKS As an avid book collector, my sentimental favourites would have to be a series from the 70s - the Time Life Library of Art that my parents would mail order for me. These were influential when I was young, I studied the illustrations to make sketches on every piece of paper I could find based on the old masters from each volume.

INVESTITURE Receiving my Medal (OAM) of the Order of Australia at the Investiture Ceremony at Government House, Sydney from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC QC, Governor of New South Wales, was extremely special and one of my favourite days.

HOME No matter how far I have travelled around the globe, I just can't imagine living anywhere else. I feel so fortunate to live and work on the traditional country of the Awabakal people. There's nothing better than enjoying an early morning coffee with my husband and this view from the Awabakal Nature Reserve above Redhead Beach.

45

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