Urban Hunter Magazine

ISSUE 1 FREEMAGAZINE

little artists in newcastle and the hunter Got a budding little artist in your family (ages 0-12)? Would they like to see their masterpiece on the back cover of Urban Hunter Magazine? Send 300dpi scanned entries to: [email protected] Make sure to include their name and age in the email for us to add to the image. Please note: Only scanned images at 300dpi will be accepted. Unfortunately, we are not able to print every image we receive. issue 1 - feb 2016 magazine cover by dane veragnolo pull out poster by dane veragnolo please note: the content and views expressed by contributors of urban hunter magazine are not necessarily back cover by emerson mcpherson aged 18 months those of urban hunter magazine or workskil australia. work for the dole supervisors editorial contributors lee-ann howard and richard baird avrell guest, dan everett, john fielding, marnie buckland, megan nash, paul cunningham, phillip harrison, phil hunter, editor and creative director richard louis, sally wright, sam matthews, lily elliott, selina lee-ann howard mcdonell, kay laming editorial coordinator and all-round extraordinaire photographic and art contributors richard baird dane veragnolo, emerson mcpherson, leeann ward, richard louis, ryan stanmore, selina mcdonell, phil hunter magazine mascot sprite also a huge thanks to grant sproule for the awesome images he sent us from throwing buckets magazine follow us: twitter. twitter.com/urbanhuntermag thanks to the university of newcastle cultural collections facebook. facebook.com/urbanhuntermagazine department for their help in obtaining our historical images by ralph snowball of the newcomen street swimming baths for editorial enquiries: email. [email protected] a heads up too, to the fabulous google advanced search button for the creative commons image search option!2

not just another magazine This magazine is a Work for the Dole initiative for Workskil Australia, a not for profit organisation that supports Australians to achieve economic and social self-reliance through work experience (like this magazine), training and employment.It’s been a very slow start for us here at our little studio in this image was modelled and designed by phil hunterHunter Street; from waiting for furniture, computers andthe internet, to getting our heads around how the work for is our ambition with each issue to add colour to your day, tothe dole system works. There is still so much to learn and humanise, educate, entertain and perhaps even to inspireorganise: we feel we haven’t even scratched the surface. you, in your weekly comings and goings.Slow start or not, we are super chuffed to have our first We hope that you stick with us on this journey andedition finally out for all you awesome peeps to enjoy. The relish each issue in the knowledge that with every page,articles, photographs and art in this magazine have received we continue to learn; all the while imparting new skills,minimal editing and are the creative aspirations of those confidence, and hopefully a little fun into lives of those whoseeking employment here in Newcastle and the Hunter. It pass through our doors helping us to create this fab little magazine. Lee-Ann Howard 3

48 44 16 43 46 38Grow where you 14 are planted 30 10 204

6 what’s inside? sshh! not just another magazine•3 market on your calendar•6 28 drag yourself out this weekend•1024 newcastle’s shipwrecks•13 paint the town red•14 renew newcastle•16 bree b•20 throwing buckets•22 trending workplaces make pawsitive benefits•24 pull out poster•26 a librarian’s guide to cleaning out your bookcase•28 hunter children in the colonial era•30 pretty in pink•35 know your sunscreen•36 it’s all gone swimmingly•38 a stinging study•40 worm your way into the garden•42 lettuce ketchup in the kitchen•44 the type rider•46 puzzles•48 comic•50 5

market on your calendar Newcastle and the Hunter are buzzing with creativity. That’s right I am talking about our local markets on every weekend. So check out our list and mosey on out this weekend to a local market for gift ideas and an all-round fun day out. selina mcdonell selina mcdonell From Newcastle to the Hunter to Port Stephens, you Clock Tower Markets will find a wide variety of markets for everyone’s tastes Every Saturday and interests. Besides the obligatory food and clothing 8am to 2pm stalls, there are plenty of stalls selling gifts. You will find Beaumont St, Hamilton (James St Plaza) everything from fair trade products through to educational Hunt and Gather Markets toys and books along with beautiful hand-made soaps, 3rd Saturday of the month jewellery, paintings and photographs along with other 9am to 2pm creative arts and crafts. Pacific Park, Newcastle Hunter Street Organic Food Market We thought we would make you a handy list of all the free to Every Wed, Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun enter markets in and around Newcastle and the Hunter to 10am to 3pm help you with your shopping. I hope we haven’t left any out! Hunter St Mall Newcastle Markets Check out Hush Rumble at the Olive Tree or The Impossible Market Adamstown Lions Market Every Sunday 8am to 12pm Corner Glebe and Brunker Rds Adamstown Blackbutt Rotary Markets 4th Saturday of the month 8:30am to 2pm Blackbutt Reserve (Freyberg St Entrance) Broadmeadow Sundays Handmade Market 4th Sunday of the month 9am to 2pm Newcastle Harness Racing Club, Turton Rd, Broadmeadow6

Islington Markets The Olive Tree Market at Civic Park, NewcastleLast Sunday of month (except December)7am to 1pm Maitland MarketsWickham Park, Albert St, Wickham 1st Sunday of the month 8am to 2pmNewcastle City Farmers and Makers Market Maitland Showground, Bloomfield St, MaitlandMost Sundays8am to 1:30pm Lake Macquarie MarketsNewcastle Showground, Broadmeadow 3 PeasNewcastle Night Markets 2nd Sunday of the monthEvery Thursday during daylight saving 9am to 2pm4:00pm to 8:30pm Teralba Public School, York St, TeralbaNewcastle Showground, Broadmeadow Belmont All Saints Anglican Church MarketsNewcastle Markets Co-op 3rd Saturday of the monthFridays from 9:30am 8am to 12pmRural Drive, Sandgate 24 Church St, BelmontRotary Markets Healing Haven Markets1st Saturday of the month 3rd Saturday of the month8:30am to 1:30pm 9am to 2pmNew Lambton Primary School, Regent St, New Lambton Dudley Public School Crn Boundary and Ocean St, DudleyThe Impossible Market2nd Sunday of the month4pm to 9pmThe Edwards, 148 Parry St, Newcastle WestThe Olive Tree Market1st Saturday of the month9am to 3pmCivic Park, NewcastleThe Handmade Market4th Sunday of the month9am to 2 pmPCYC Broadmeadow, Cnr Young Rd and Melbourne StMaitlandHarvest MarketEvery Saturday8am to 11amMaitland Showground, Bloomfield St, Maitland 7

Succulents from Lake Macquarie Farmers Markets Wyee Markets The 2nd Saturday of the month Lake Macquarie Farmers Markets 8:30am to 1pm 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month Wyee Community Hall Grounds, Wyee Rd, Wyee 8am to 1pm Speers Point Park, Park Rd or Creek Reserve Rd Hunter Morisset Markets and Auctions Abermain Girl Guide Markets 1st Saturday of the month 3rd Saturday of the month 8am to 1pm 8am to 1pm Morisset Showground, Ourimbah St, Morisset Centenary Park, Bathurst St, Abermain Newcastle Handmade Markets Broke Community Markets 3rd weekend of the month 1st Sunday of the month 7am to 12pm 8am to 12pm Charlestown Square, Centre Court McNamara Park, Wollombi St, Broke Saltwater Market Hand Made Markets 1st Sunday of the month 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month 9am to 2pm 9am to 4pm Swansea Public School, Rawson St, Swansea Kevin Sobel’s Wines, Halls Rd, Pokolbin Swansea Markets Kurri Kurri Farmers Markets 4th Saturday of the month 2nd Saturday of the month 8:30am to 1pm 8am to 1pm Quinn Park, Belmont St, Swansea Rotary Park, Kurri Kurri Toronto Lions Markets Laguna Markets 3rd Sunday of the month 3rd Sunday of the month 7:30am to 12.30pm 9:30am to 1pm Lions Park, Anzac Parade, Toronto Old Northern Trading Post, Great North Rd, Laguna8 Sacred Tree Markets 3rd Sunday of the month (except January) 9am to 2pm Old St Brigid’s School Grounds, Branxton Singleton Farmers and Craft Markets 4th Saturday of the month 8am to 1pm Singleton Showground, Bathurst St, Singleton Wollombi Village Markets Every holiday Monday 8am to 1pm Paynes Crossing Rd, Wollombi

Port Stephens Raymond Terrace Community Markets 3rd Saturday the monthAnna Bay Community Markets 9am to 2pm1st Saturday of the month Riverside Park, Hunter St, Raymond Terrace8:30am to 2pmGateway Family Presbyterian Church Spectrum Farmers and Artisian Markets43 Gan Gan Rd, Anna Bay 3rd Saturday the month 9am to 1pmMedowie Markets Spectrum Church, 43102nd Saturday of the month Nelson Bay Rd, Anna Bay8am to 2:30pmBush n Bull Motel, Ferodale Rd, Medowie Tanilba Bay Markets 3rd Saturday of the monthNelson Bay Legacy Markets 9am to 1pm1st, 3rd and 5th Sunday of the month Kooindah Plaza8:30am to 2pm President Wilson Walk, Tanilba BayNeil Carroll Park, Shoal Bay Rd, Nelson Bay(Fly Point) Tomaree Markets 2nd & 4th Sunday of the monthPort Stephens Markets 9am to 2 pm4th Saturday of the month Tomaree Sports Complex9am to 1pm Nelson Bay Rd, Nelson BayPort Stephens Church of ChristNelson Bay Rd, Salt Ash The Olive Tree Markets, Civic Park, Newcastle 9

Photo taken by Sarah-Jane Creative drag yourself out this weekend Newcastle’s drag scene is exploding with glitter this year as queens prepare to entertain the public with their fabulous performances. megan nash Our local drag scene is by no means shy, with queens then head onto the stage to serenade the crowd. Some of coming from all over the Hunter and even the Central Coast those who get up to sing wow the room, while others wow to join in the glitz and glam every weekend at the Gateway themselves with great passion and good humour. Hotel on Maitland Road, just west of Beaumont Street. The singing is interrupted by drag performances, followed A typical Friday and Saturday night kicks off around 9-10pm by more drag in the night club area at the back of the with karaoke, hosted by the fabulous Miss Chrysdel Fiva and hotel where of course, you can dance till the small hours. the resident dj Paul Wilson. Visitors choose their songs, The atmosphere in the Gateway is amazing and super10

welcoming. Even the bar staff are a hoot, with some putting How did you come up with you drag name?their names down to sing a few karaoke songs between Lulu: I wanted it to match my initials, and I love the name Luluserving customers. and also love Christian LuBoutin the designer, so I merged them and bam.Other than the drag shows, the venue holds various other Anita: My original name was Anita Bath (coz I was a bitevents, everything from foam nights to Halloween parties. sloppy when I first started) then I was renamed AnitaAnd don’t miss out on trivia Thursdays which is hosted by Mandinite by a famous Aussie drag queen Mitzi Macintosh.the one and only, the wonderful Amber Dextrous. How long does it take you to get ready for a performance?A lot of preparation is involved in the build up to each Lulu: Anywhere from a day to a few weeks, depending onshow, from rehearsals, to costumes, as well as the time it costume, choreography etc.takes for the girls to do their hair and makeup. With each Anita: It can take up to three hours. Usually 30 mins toqueen having their own style, the shows vary considerably. shower and shave, two hours for makeup and about 30 minsSome are full of comedy and hilarity while others are more to get dressed and put my “body” on.subdued or haunting numbers. On occasion the girls worktogether, and in these performances there is a lot more Tim Newell before makeoverdetail and glitz involved. After makeover Tim is Anita MandiniteI met up with a couple of our local queens, Lulu Boutin &Anita Mandinite and asked them to share with us a littleabout what goes on in the life of a drag queen here inNewcastle.How did you begin your career in drag?Lulu: I first started perfecting my form and skills, I adopted adrag mother who taught me makeup skills and performancetricks of the trade.Anita: I have been dressing in drag for 13 years now. I havebeen doing shows for the last 7 or so years. I was asked todo a show for a local charity and had a great time doing it soI started entering a few drag competitions and that got mesome regular work doing drag.What’s your day job?Lulu: I.T engineerAnita: I work in a call centre as a customer care consultant.In your career, at any time have you had anytrouble from people?Lulu: Yes often. We work in an environment where thereare drunken people, but you need to know how to turn anegative into a positive or you simply will not survive.Anita: No not really. I have not faced any homophobia in drag.My looks are pretty over the top so people are generally toosurprised by my looks to even think. 11

Louis Wilson before makeover What advice would you give to somebody that is thinking of doing drag? After makeover Louis is Lulu Boutin Lulu: Do it! But don’t step on anyone’s toes; this is an What is the best part of being a drag queen? industry where you respect those who came before you. It’s Lulu: It’s a mask, and you get to be someone else.Anita: I all about being reverant as well as showing your talent and used to think the anonymity but I’m well known in Newcastle pleasing the audience. now, so that kind of disappeared. I love the ability to Anita: Get ready to spend a lot of money, as well as practice, become a new person for the night. It’s hard to explain but practice, practice. it’s like having another person you can change into. Also, as a drag queen you can be really sassy and people don’t take How welcoming is the drag scene to new offence as easily as they would if you were not in drag. queens? Lulu: Very, we hold talent night once a month to encourage new queens. Our drag family has expanded from 3 to 21 in 3 years. Anita: Most of the queens in Newcastle are nice and accepting but a few are not. I am very welcoming and will be willing to help new girls in their journey. How would you describe yourself to somebody that has never met you? Lulu: Loud, funny, confident, friendly with damn sexy legs. Anita: Confident, friendly, extremely funny with a twist of craziness hidden inside. Do you make your own outfits? Lulu: Yes, I sew and piece them together myself. Anita: Yes I do make my own outfits. I have been sewing all my life (self-taught mostly with a fair bit of help from my mum) and I really enjoy sewing. Most of the time I have more fun making the outfits than wearing them. What is the difference between a drag queen and a cross dresser? Lulu: A cross dresser in my eyes is a male wearing female clothes for pleasure; a drag queen is a person imitating another gender through the illusion of performance. Thank you so much for your time. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers? Lulu: “…you can never have too many hats, gloves and shoes.” Patsy Stone, Absolutely Fabulous.12

newcastle’s A salvage operation was launched once the storm had shipwrecks subsided but that only served to make matters worse with the 53,000 tonne vessel breaking in two under the strain, Mariners have described the Port of with one half of the ship still cast ashore on Stockton Newcastle, which is the largest exporter of Beach today. One lesser known shipwreck, but perhaps the most coal in the world, as a “hell-hole”. important, is the one that occurred along our coastline in July of 1866 when Brisbane-bound passenger ship Cawarra sam matthews became caught in rough seas. richard louis Such was the power of Mother Nature during that short time that fourteen other ships were lost to Davy Jones’The waters surrounding our seaside city of Newcastle are Locker. The battered Cawarra entered Newcastle Harbouras treacherous and difficult to navigate as any you will come to seek shelter from the force of the storm and foundacross on the high seas. So it should come as no surprise herself engulfed by the waves that would sink her merethat over 200 vessels have been wrecked in and around moments later.the mouth of the Hunter since the port opened upon the Of the one hundred and fifty passengers on board, alldiscovery of coal in 1797. Despite advances in technology perished but one sole survivor. Many of the victims wereand strict port safety laws the waters of Newcastle laid to rest in a mass grave on the grounds of the Christcontinue to wreak havoc for any ship entering or leaving the Church Cathedral, with no markers or stones to identifyharbour. them. To this day the sinking of the Cawarra is still one of theWe all remember where we were during the infamous storm greatest disasters in Australian maritime history.of 2007 which made international headlines, with the Pasha If it’s local shipwrecks that float your boat then theBulker, a 40,000 tonne vessel, being washed ashore Nobbys Newcastle Maritime Centre on Honeysuckle is home to aBeach like a discarded piece of driftwood. vast amount of information and memorabilia regarding the city’s most infamous shipwrecks.The incident proved to be a valuable tourism gimmick for thecity with people flooding in from all over to have their picture The Pasha Bulker at Nobbys in 2007taken with the marooned ship. It was only after a month, andthree attempts at a salvage operation, that the 225 metrevessel was finally rescued by a Japanese sister ship andtaken off our beach so life could return to normal and thebeach to the ocean’s embrace.That particular storm reminded many locals of the stormthat occurred thirty-three years prior that claimed theNorwegian vessel MV Sygna, and closed not only theNewcastle port but that of Sydney with extensive damagebeing caused along the coastline. 13

paint the town red The past couple of years has seen Newcastle awash with colour as artists head out to inspire and delight us on random exposed walls around the streets and lane-ways of our city. phil hunter phil hunterTalented street artists are baring their imaginations onto Some of the world’s most popular cities have seensuburban and city walls around the world. No matter what how street art can change the atmosphere within theside of the wall you are on, positive or negative, we have community, including London, Bristol, Berlin, Paris, New York,witnessed globally how street art can transform cities into Mexico and Melbourne.hot tourist locations and put small creative townson the map. We have started to see this change here in Newcastle, when Hit the Bricks street art festival called on local and Most Attractive Couple by Trevor Dickinson, outside Newcastle Meuseum14

Trevor Dickinson has created a number of quirky interactive murals. These are especially popular with tourists who get their photos taken interacting with the art, post these photos online and in so doing, share their Newcastle adventures with the rest of the world. Trevor is now doing the same for other major cities Aboriginal Boy by Adnate at Hannell Street, Wickham around Australia.international artists to give the city walls a makeover in Visitors as well as locals, are enjoying the atmosphere2013 and 2014. Festival co-ordinator, Carl Morgan says and buzz of creativity these artworks have gifted the city,that “… for all the wall owners, a positive would be a decline feeding a renewed creative appetite in the community.of vandalism. It also makes the area feel safer and more The trend of street art is being recognised as ainviting.” contemporary art form all around the world.Also, Newcastle City Council’s Graffiti Management If you would like to explore Newcastle and see whereStrategy, who remove graffiti and create murals around the artists have left us a glimpse of themselves, therethe city to minimise tagging, has helped to clean up and is a street art walking tour run by Simone Sheridan calledbrighten the streets. Street Art Walking. Head over to their website for more information: http://streetartwalking.com.au/Even schemes like Renew Newcastle who fill empty andderelict buildings have played their part in reducing taggingand vandalism.If you hadn’t already noticed, we have a diverse range ofstyles of art in the CBD and surrounds, from caricatures ofNewcastle’s iconic landmarks, realistic underwater scenes,quirky cartoon characters and realistic human portraits, allresulting in a colourful walk to work.It’s a great way to see the town once recognised as merelya dirty mining city transformed, and now recognised as oneof the best tourist spots in the world.Not only is street art used to revitalise a building or unused Astronaut by Christoph Fleming, King Street Hotelwall, it also plays its part in boosting tourism. Local artist 15

renew newcastle With more projects lined up now than ever before, Renew Newcastle play an vital role in keeping our city moving forward. avrell guest phil hunter Founded by Marcus Westbury in 2008, Renew Newcastle regard that they had to move five times, as the properties is an urban renewal scheme that is known for its activation they worked from kept being leased. of empty stores in the city centre. Marcus is a native of One big change that is possible to measure can be seen Newcastle who visited after living and working in Melbourne in the crime stats recently released by the Bureau of and was disturbed by the state of the city centre, Statistics. They show a 25.6% decline in property crime in particularly the fact that over 150 empty shops could be the city, including vandalism and graffiti since 2009, which counted along Hunter and King Streets. He was inspired is just after the Renew Newcastle project was founded. to do something to change the situation and from there Christopher Saunders, Renew’s General Manager says Renew Newcastle (RN) was developed. that this clearly demonstrates that activation prevents vandalism. The not-for-profit renewal scheme has been supported I spoke to Chris about what makes a good RN project and by local, state and federal government as well as the local business community, with partners such as the GPT Group The Emporium, 185 Hunter St Mall and Urban Growth NSW. One of the major successes of the project is The Emporium. Located in the former David Jones building in Hunter Street Mall. It reopened in 2012 as an arcade of boutiques and now has 14 spaces which include; clothing stores, jewellery designers and artists, a soap maker, a stonemason, and a milliner amongst others. The change can be seen in the Mall and along Hunter Street, with an increase in vitality and the number of open stores and cafés. The benefit for property owners involved with the initiative is immense. Insurance and maintenance costs can be lowered, there is a decreased chance of property crime and the presence of a business in the property will attract interest, possibly from commercial tenants. Previous RN project Make Space was so successful in this16

was inspired by his enthusiasm for ideas, commitment, Graham Wilson, The Carved Green Man, The Emporiumexperimentation and passion, rather than a focus solelyon commercial success. “It is important to use this talent and imagination of the people that live there can beopportunity to allow people to try things that aren’t always used to create new solutions.going to be successful, because sometimes failure is thebest way to learn things.” Renew Newcastle’s plans for the future include possible activation of some land in the formerAgain, the figures speak for themselves, since 2008, 205 rail corridor, involving an event or installationprojects have been part of Renew and of these 35% have based project that will look at the movementgone on to become sustainable businesses and 15% have of people in the area and try to make themtaken on commercial leases, often in the same space theyused for RN. These include graphic design and advertising see the city in a slightly different way. Anothercompany Neon Zoo and online publisher Conversant Media, idea is to maybe use the currently empty Storewho were among the earliest Renew projects and have building in the West End as a creative hub, includinggone on to commercial leases, continuing to grow their outdoor use of the car park. One new initiative is RN Socialcompanies. Sock Monkeys at Fancy That, The EmporiumAnother successful graduate is Studio Melt in HunterStreet Mall, where they sell the work of a number ofcontemporary jewellers and artists as well as holdingjewellery making workshops.Another success for the initiative and for thecity is the announcement by Lonely Planetin 2011 that Newcastle was one of theirtop 10 cities in the world. This came aboutafter Renew Newcastle hosted Lonely Planetfor a weekend the same year, showing themthe natural and cultural attractions for visitors.Apart from their aim to activate empty real estate, bringinginterest to underutilised areas, Renew also uses spaceabove stores for office and studio based applications. Theyhold a series of breakfast lectures, Creative Talks, which aregiven by people who are making a living from their creativity.Past presenters include Melbourne artist Ghostpatrol,illustrator Liz Anelli and Simon Hipgrave from design andletterpress studio Hungry Press.Marcus Westbury, founder of RN, had his book CreatingCities published last year. It explains the process ofdesigning and implementing the project, along withWestbury’s observations on cities and towns that arefacing similar problems to Newcastle and his belief that the 17

IRL (In Real Life) which unites creative people, allowing them The scheme is always looking for new projects to support,to make new friendships and contacts in the industry. especially people with new ideas and the passion to implement them. “We’re here to see this city evolve andThe only limitation for RN is in attempting to organise grow…we aren’t just focused on retail now, yet we havefunding for each new year. Although they receive more projects than ever before. What Renew Newcastleassistance from various sources the project organisers provides is a civic service.”are constantly finding they need to convince governmentbodies, potential funders and even the broader community “We’re here to see this city evolveof RN’s economic, social and cultural value. As they are a and grow…we aren’t just focused onnot-for-profit organisation they are only looking for enough retail now, yet we have more projectsto sustain the program. Despite all their achievementsChristopher Saunders explained that the total annual than ever before. What Renewoperating cost is less than the cost of employing two public Newcastle provides is a civic service.”servants. The entire initiative costs $210,000 annually, ofwhich 35% is self-generated. 33 Degrees South Soap, The Emporium18

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bree b selina mcdonell I met up with local artist Bree Bendeich, to ask her about What is the most difficult part about drawing all the awesome pet portraits she sketches, and what she pets? loves most about drawing the furry friends she makes Bree: Getting the face absolutely perfect is most difficult along the way. but most rewarding. If it’s not right I tend to scrap it and start over because otherwise it doesn’t look like the same Tell us a little bit about yourself. dog... also as it turns out, I am a bit of a perfectionist. Bree: I live in Singleton with my family and little dog named Louie who has more of a social life than I do! I have What was the most difficult pet portrait you wanted to be an illustrator since I was about 5 thanks to have done so far? Why? Shirley Barber’s fairy books that were filled with beautiful Bree: The hardest so far would be my brother’s dog Walter, illustrations. 3rd time was the charm with him, 1st and 2nd time he looked a little like a sloth. In the end he turned out to be one What inspired you to start doing pet of my favourites. Illustrations? Bree: I work as a graphic designer for a local company two What do you love most about drawing pets? days a week. In need of more income with no desire to work Bree: I love illustrating the little details in the face that make in retail, I decided to illustrate portraits of pets. The idea up the personality and character of each animal. sparked from a cute photo I took of Louie. It’s great to find something to do that you love, and for me, what better way Do you have a website where people can see than to draw sweet little fluff, fur and feathered friends that your work? light up our lives and love us back everyday no matter what. Bree: I’m working on a site, but in the meantime you can see my work at: www.facebook.com/breebdesigns How long does it take for each portrait take? and instagram.com/bree.b_designs Bree: My portraits can take anywhere from 4 hours to 12 hours depending on the size and colour variations. How can customers contact you for a portrait of their pet? Bree: Attach a photo of your pet onto an email and send it to: [email protected]

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throwing buckets Local surfing magazine Throwing Buckets is creating a large swell in Newcastle. phil hunter thanks grant sproule! Did you know that Newcastle has it’s own surfing magazine? What year did Throwing Buckets magazine If you didn’t, you do now. Throwing Buckets is a digital start? magazine produced right here in our awesome city. The Grant: I started the magazine in October, 2013. I have magazine runs a range of articles from local businesses and published 20 editions since launching. lifestyle stories, features on local surf and skate events, interviews with champion board riders as well as what’s What inspired you to launch a surf magazine? happening in the world of surfing. Grant: I had worked in newspapers with Fairfax for over 23 I chatted to the magazines creator, Grant Sproule to get his years and when I was working at the Newcastle Herald, it take on the magazine and what inspires him. always bothered me that there wasn’t more surfing in the newspaper considering how big the surfing culture is here in Grant Sproule, Throwing Buckets Creator Newcastle.22 How did the brand “Throwing Buckets” arise? Grant: It’s a surfing term that I liked. The first time I heard it I thought to myself that it would be a good magazine name. That was about 10 years ago now, so when the opportunity came up to start the magazine I made sure I used it. How many staff members are in the team? Grant: At the moment just myself, I take the photos, design and lay the magazine out and write all the copy. Terry McKenna helps me out with advertising and marketing. How do you feel your magazine puts Newcastle on the map? Grant: I would like to think that the magazine showcases the very best of what Newcastle has to offer. The images all show just how amazing this region we live in is. So many people comment on my FB page about how jealous they are of where we live. The fact that it is read all over the world can only be a good thing for Newcastle tourism.

How do you think this magazine captures the both his legs from below the knee when he was just 18.essence of the Newcastle lifestyle? Surfing saved his life and he still surfs everyday if he can.Grant: In so many ways Newcastle is all about our coastline. Jade recently went to the States to represent Australian atPeople gravitate towards the ocean. As I said earlier, the ISA Games and he invited me over to shoot the gamesThrowing Buckets is all about showcasing the best that our for the Australian team, so that was a great experience.amazing city has to offer and I believe is Australia’s best-kept secret. Is there anything else you would like to share with the readers?What is your readership and how can your Grant: If you have a love of surfing, skating,readers access the magazine? beaches and Newcastle, you shouldGrant: The magazine has over 4000 subscribers and is sold definitely check out the magazine,in over 18 countries worldwide through it is more expensive to buy a caniTunes, GooglePlay and Pocketmags. of Coke than to buy an edition,com. Download the free app and you and less than two schooners tocan start downloading the magazine. subscribe for 12 months. If youFor a single issue it costs $1.29, or want to know what is happeningalternatively you can subscribe and save by purchasing a 12 in the surfing community, thismonth subscription for only $10. magazine is your best bet.Do you have any future plans to print it? Throwing Buckets also has advertisingGrant: The magazine is digital only at the moment. Each space in our magazine and website. For anyedition is over 200-pages, so the cost of printing that is details involving advertising space please contact Throwingpretty excessive. I would love to be able to get a printed Buckets through www.throwingbuckets.com.au/contact.version up and running someday. I am a big collector ofsurfing magazines myself. 23How does the magazine give local surfersa voice that they may not have hadpreviously?Grant: Before I started the magazine,there was no place anyone could go tocheck out what was going on in thesurfing world. There was SurfingNewcastle, but it was only really astarting point. So now if anyonehas an event on, or a story to tell,they contact me and we go fromthere. I try to get to as many surfingcontests as I can and make sure Ireport on how our locals are doing on theinternational stage.Do you have a favourite article?Grant: I did a story on Jade Wheatley who is a male who lost

trending workplaces make pawsitive benefits Mega companies like Google, Ben and Jerry’s and Amazon lead the trend and reap the benefits in allowing their staff to bring pets to work. sam matthews richard louisHow many times have you left for work in the morning only companies like Google, Ben and Jerry’s and Amazon allto look back at a pair of big brown eyes begging you not to taking the lead and allowing pets in the workplace.go, leaving you wishing there was something you could doabout it? Australia has fast caught on, with many companies such as Purina and Nestle jumping on the four-legged-wagon andThe good news is that you may very well be letting Fido allowing pets to accompany staff to work, as studies havetag along very soon. The strategy known as ‘Pets at Work’ proven the key benefit to both employers and employees.(PAW) started gaining momentum in America with mega Not only does it improve workplace morale, it reduces Sprite, reading emails24

employee absenteeism and generally Archie, business as usualreduces overall stress levels. faithful friend curled up at your feet while you crunch theStudies have also shown that employees numbers.who bring their pets to work experiencean 11% drop in stress levels while those Dogs do make up the majority of pets around the workplacewho either left their pets at home or don’t with 76% of employees preferring Fido to Fluffy, with catshave any had a 70% rise in stress levels. only making up 15% and other small creatures filling in theEmployees in pet-friendly workplaces remainder.have proven to be happier, friendlier, morecreative and co-operative than those in Naturally there are certain workplaces where thenon-pet offices. introduction of a pet is strongly forbidden, or at the very least frowned upon. Places such as medical facilities,Pets at work force us to take consistent chemical laboratories and food businesses like cafésbreaks so we’re not sitting in the one place and restaurants where a pet in the kitchen can pose afor hours on end, making us more productive in the long run. significant risk to health and safety.They also encourage us to go outside for some fresh air andexercise on our lunchbreak instead of sitting in the staff For those of us who aren’t catering to a hungry lunchroom reading a month old magazine, eating a homemade crowd in a busy restaurant, or indeed curing diseases in acheese and pickle sandwich. laboratory, but instead, sitting in a cushy office watching the clock and counting down the hours until knock-off time,Pets also encourage workplace interactions that then the addition of a pet is not only a much needed stressmay otherwise not occur, with employees with pets reducer but also significantly increases your productivity.collaborating, networking and communicating more. This will instantly make you your boss’ new favourite employee and fast track your chances of getting theStudies have found that owning a dog increases the promotion you deserve.lifespan of a human being, so when that jerk in the officepinches your yoghurt from the fridge hold back the urge to So, for a more laid back work environment where yourbeat him to death with a spoon and go take your dog for a productivity and mental well-being increase, take your dogwalk instead. to work with you.Studies also show that people with dogs have lower blood You’d be barking mad not to.pressure in stressful situations than those without dogs.One study even found that when people with borderlinehypertension adopted a dog from a shelter, their bloodpressure declined significantly within five months.Playing with a dog can elevate the levels of serotonin anddopamine, which calm and relax us.It’s no wonder these studies are so pawsitive, since wedo spend most of our waking hours at work and away fromhome, why not bring a piece of home to work. While it’s fineto have a framed family photo of your trip to Disneylandlast year sitting on your desk it’s even better to have your 25

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a librarian’s guide tocleaning out your bookcase Give your bookshelves a good clean this weekend and make space for a few new reads. lily elliott Books are one of those items that make a house a home. I Keep love having a sticky beak at people’s bookshelves: it tells you a lot about the person or family. The keep pile is a no brainer, give them a quick wipe over with a dry cloth and they are ready to go back on the shelf Would you be ashamed for a stranger to look at your books? when you have finished. Been putting off going through your shelves and discarding what you no longer need, want, or have space for.? Discard Let me help. As a Librarian I can guide you through the Any books that are smelly, yellow or falling apart need to be torturous process of what to keep…..and what to get rid of. thrown away, they attract the crawlies and mould. We do it every day and its gets easier with practice. Unless they are a precious family treasure, they belong in the recycling bin. I know it’s difficult, but it’s necessary. So let me hold your hand through the old library motto “If in doubt, chuck it out” If it’s something you love and will reread, keep it for now, and replace it when it’s on sale or someone asks you what you The main reason to clean out the shelves is a practical want for your birthday. A new copy of an old favourite is like one. Books, as paper, attract dust, dirt and crawly things a new discovery. I’m on to my third copy of Gone with the Wind. that love to gnaw on your precious items while you sleep. Then there’s the issue of clutter Not Sure and making space for new purchases and Christmas gifts. Books you have two of, didn’t like, the kids will never read again or were an appauling gift from Great Aunt Mary may Start slowly, one shelf at a time: the find a home somewhere else. Think about: best place to start is in the middle of your shelf • Passing them on to younger kids, budding cooks or and bookcase. It’s at eye fellow readers. level, makes a difference • Try a book exchange. Try a few, most will only take books immediately and you can that are brand new or near perfect condition. move things up or down as you go along. Make three piles; • Have a book party, invite your friends, they bring dip, keep, discard and not sure. cheese and bickies and you let them take home lots of books.28

Here’s a Tip Place some chalk, about half a small stick, behind your books on each shelf. It absorbs moisture and prolongs the life of your books. Very important in our humid climate• There is no shame in re-gifting, especially if no one knows, sshh!if the book hasn’t been read, or in perfect condition why notwrap it up as a thank you, birthday or hostess gift.• Have a market stall - If your shelves are seriouslyoverstocked, or you could get a couple of friends to do thesame and make some money between you – to buymore books!!!Now, to repack your shelves. Notice how libraries pack theirshelves? All books to the front and about ¾ full. This is toallow for expansion as more books sneak on the shelvesand for the air to circulate. The space at the end of theshelf, or you can alternate the beginning and the end, iswhere you put your interesting knick knacks, photos anditems of sentimental value.Fill in the Blanks for TheseAustralian Children’s ClassicsHarp in the .....Seven ...... AustraliansMagic ............. Magic.JW.o.h.h.en.r.eBfroiosrwAthnlie,bRr.ao.n.s.d.eiSahnedetphe ........ CatSnuggle ... and Cuddle ...... the PugPlaying ....... Bow 29

hunter children in the colonial era Life has changed somewhat in the Hunter since colonial times. This is true particularly for children. This article aims to give you a sense of the community attitudes toward issues surrounding the most vulnerable in society, the Hunter’s children. john fielding When Charles Darwin visited the colonies in the 1830s, he respect nothing has changed in our society: children were found a society obsessed with money, both the making of murdered, abused, beaten and severely neglected. As it and the spending. What he also found was great jealousy you will read below, children with no parents or ones who between rich and poor children. I don’t need to describe could not afford to look after them, were often sent off to the gulf that existed between these two parties. One can industrial and reform schools. These were places not fit for picture the children of the fortunate, being educated to a child, and few stories involving these places have a happy standards in line with their expectations in life. They were ending. often looked after by servants, their stomachs were full and they received the best health care available at the time. It was only in 1880 that the Public Institution Act, made education compulsory for children aged 6 to 14. These children were lucky enough to have lovely clothes to wear, and clean beds to sleep in. Their homes were in A Waif of the Streets good suburbs and they played with children from an equally privileged background. They rode in the latest horse drawn The following is an example of how a child could end up buggies, had books to read and a future to look forward to. being sent to an Industrial School, through no fault of their own. It’s a rather sad story but the ending may restore your The lives of all children were determined by the faith in human nature. expectations and realities of their class, gender and race. On 19th April 1876, a 9 year old boy, Alfred Cuddington, The children of the poor were in dire straits indeed. Some was brought before Newcastle Police Court charged with were destitute, devoid of parents, education, healthcare habitually wandering the streets and not having a job. He or a means to make a living. A night school was opened was arrested because there had been 5 or 6 complaints in Waratah early in 1876 for children not able to attend over the last year about Alfred sleeping rough in empty during the day, in the hopes of them gaining some sort houses or anywhere he could get shelter. Poor Alfred was of education. Children were working from an early age in in a wretched condition, filthy and wild. Alfred’s father was anything from domestic service to coal mines. A boy could blind and collected bottles for money. The father was be apprenticed by the age of 12. Girls were destined mainly known to police as a brute of a man who mistreated his wife for domestic positions and if lucky, married. and family. Alfred told the court that he could not stay at home because of the constant abuse he received from his The saddest of events involved children. I suppose in that father.30

Alfred was described as an “intelligent-looking little fellow In 1881 the State Children’s Relief Board was established.who was in a pitiable plight”. He was bare footed and what It was created with the aim of removing children fromclothes he had on, hung in tattered shreds. His general large institutions, such as orphanages and asylums, andappearance of absolute neglect was enough to move boarding them out, or fostering them. Foster parents wereanyone to pity. Mr Hannell, J.P., said that he would like to see paid a small fee. Older children could be apprenticed, assomeone take the boy in and bring him up. Senior Constable domestic servants, for a tiny wage. Boarded out childrenConway stated that every time they try to find somewhere were supposed to be considered a member of the familyfor Alfred, his father goes after him, claiming that he needs and attend school, but they were often worked quite hard.the boy to lead him about and help him collect bottles. The They were essentially slaved apprentices, earning their keepfamily has relatives living in Sydney. with hard labour. The Board did not control reformatories or industrialMr Hannell ordered he be kept and fed until relatives in schools, like those at Cockatoo Island. These were partSydney could be contacted to see if they would take him of the prison system and were later controlled by thein. No reply was received. On 25th April, he was brought Department of Public Instruction. Many Aboriginal childrenback before the Court. His second appearance was thus who were placed in care had to be institutionalised becausedescribed, ”The poor little fellow has much improved in white families would not foster them.appearance since last time but he still bears the lookof neglect. His clothing could generally be described as Newcastle Industrial School & Reformatory forbelonging to the great unwashed”. GirlsThe Bench had no alternative but to send Alfred to the Institutions for wayward, destitute and vagrant childrenIndustrial School training ship, Vernon, docked at Cockatoo were set up. Girls were sent to a Reform School inIsland, Sydney Harbour. Newcastle while boys were sent to an Industrial School, a ship anchored in Sydney Harbour. The tales from theseMr H.A. Smith, J.P., considered Alfred’s plight, and kindly institutions are disturbing.offered to take the boy in as long as he promised to be good The Industrial School and Reformatory was set up in 1867and not run away. At this unexpected kindness, Alfred’s face to deal with wayward girls. It was a place of detention forbrightened and he said with evident sincerity and promised girls charged with neglect, wandering, street-trading orthat if Mr Smith would take him in, then he would be a good being ”uncontrollable”. It was renowned for its terribleboy. Girls ReformatoryOrphanagesOrphanages for girls were established prior to thosecatering for boys due to a growing concern regarding girls’moral behaviour. These institutions were run by Christianswith evangelical leanings. They felt that moral education forchildren was the colony’s only hope, and girls were the mostimportant because they could set an example for their ownchildren. Girls too were also more sexually vulnerable. Thiswas especially so in an economy where women had fewemployment opportunities other than domestic service.Prostitution was an enticing occupation for underprivileged,teenage girls. 31

conditions, frequent rioting and being in an inconvenient domestic service jobs and were left without occupation or location. The girls were very idle and did nothing but play all amusement and sometimes in day long and were locked up from 6pm until 6am. Singing squalid conditions. and ribald conduct could be heard until well after midnight by nearby residents. Seamen were frequently seen standing The Vernon outside the fence. If the girls were disobedient, they were placed in a ‘black hole’, had their hair cut and were subject to In 1871, a school ship for boys, The Vernon, was docked off other degrading punishments. Cockatoo Island. It was the only Industrial School for boys at the time. The ship housed neglected boys and was intended The School was open to public view and the girls, who to teach them nautical skills. More than 100 boys were were not used to having to follow rules, protested their housed on the ship. They learnt skills such as vegetable confinement with rioting, obscene language, bawdy gardening, compass, lead line, sail drill, reefing and rowing, behaviour and frequent escapes. shoe making as well as school lessons. The school ship was run under strict standards by benevolent and thorough In March of 1871, rioting broke out involving girls between masters who had faith in the possibility of reform. Boys the ages of 9 and 15. The girls were charged with rioting, as young as 3 years old were admitted to the Ship. The breaking windows and wilfully destroying property. They Industrial Schools Act of 1866 was amended in 1870 to pleaded guilty and were each sentenced to pay a fine of make provisions for boys younger than 7 years of age. This £5 or be imprisoned in Maitland Gaol for 1 month with hard meant that those under 7 were sent to Biloela with the girls. labour. Two of the girls, who exhibited more violence than Increasingly, the boys being committed were those with the others, received 2 months imprisonment with hard criminal charges. labour. Two small children were then called from their cells All is not what it seemed for the boys of the Vernon, though to answer similar charges. They were unable to appear in court for some time because they had torn their dresses in The Vernon the lock-up. They pleaded guilty to the charges but at the request of the superintendent, ordered to be returned to the school. The resulting public outcry forced the government to close the institution in 1871 and all girls were moved from Newcastle to Cockatoo Island at Sydney Harbour. The site of the Newcastle Reformatory School later became part of the James Fletcher Hospital. The girls’ new institution was renamed Biloela and was split into 2 parts: the Biloela Industrial Public School for Girls and the Biloela Reformatory. The Reformatory was for girls who had broken the law, while the Industrial School was intended to operate more like an orphanage. However, these girls mixed together which meant that girls who had been neglected or orphaned were housed with petty criminals, all of them living in the dreadful conditions of convict cells. The girls were treated as hopeless cases, trained for32

they certainly fared better than the girls. There was quite Onboard the Sobraona list of boys who later became convicted murderers andthieves. They were always known in gaol for their extreme Vernon. In regards to Biloela, a report uncovered grossfilthiness of language. There were accusations regarding mismanagement and cruelty from the administration andbrutality the boys suffered by other boys in the bathrooms. unruliness and frequent rioting from the girls. The institution was overseen by George Lucas, who was found to beThe Sobraon slovenly and ineffective. His wife Mary Ann Lucas was described as controlling and full of rage. The couple oftenIn November 1892, the Vernon was replaced by the had violent disputes in front of the other staff and theSobraon, a ship 3 times its size. While these institutions girls. They found the girls were “impudent, disobedient andoccupied the Island, there was a regular mix of dockyard unreproved”.workers and wayward and neglected boys and girls. Eachof these was separated by a wire fence but there are manyreports of fraternisation between the groups. In 1871,Captain Mein, the Superintendent of the Vernon, made thefollowing complaint, “The girls came down to the ship, in asemi-nude state, throwing stones at the windows of theworkshops. They blasphemed dreadfully and conductedthemselves more like fiends than human beings. I had tosend our boys onto the lower deck to prevent them viewingsuch a contaminatory exhibition”.In 1874 a review was set up to assess the state ofa number of institutions, including Biloela and theBoys lined up on the Vernon 33

Onboard the Sobraon The institution was found to be in a woeful condition: the them, and caught me by the hair and told me to rub them girls lapped water from a common trough and were not out. I said no. He then dragged me down, and put his foot on given cutlery to eat with. They were locked in gloomy gaol my back and stood on me. He knocked my head against the cells for 12 hours a night with nothing to occupy them. wall, and said he would rub the figures out with my hair. I was The report detailed an incident where Mr Lucas took away kicked and I have a mark on my face when he hit my head and the girls’ beds as punishment, making them sleep on the rubbed it against the wall”. cold stone flagging. Many of the girls were found to have bruises and lacerations. There were reports of girls singing From 1880 The Reformatory and Industrial School was split, bawdy verses and drawing lewd cartoons on the walls to the Industrial girls went to Parramatta Girls Home and those keep themselves entertained. in the Reformatory to Shaftesbury Reform School at Watsons Bay. The Sobraon continued as a school ship institution until The testimony of 14 year old Katie Solomon is indicative 1911. of the conditions, “Mr Lucas came into the dormitory and saw some figures on the wall. He was very angry about34

pretty in pinkThe Victorian era was a time that gave rise toa number of curious customs. Back then, the colour pink was uniquely a colour for boys. sam matthewsIn F. Scott Fitzgerald’s masterpiece ‘The Great Gatsby’, Victorian Boy in Pink Ruffle Dressdisillusioned husband Tom Buchanan criticises Gatsby forwearing pink, he was simply echoing the assumption that It’s sad to think we haven’t evolved enough to abandonpink is a feminine colour. He discredits Gatsby’s character these restrictive parameters we cage ourselves and ourwhen he is told that Gatsby is an Oxford educated man, to children into. It’s not quite known why things changed towhich Buchanan replies “Like hell he is! He wears a pink suit.” the way it is now, with blue for boys and pink for girls. But the colours were eventually reversed, and it is believedYou might think twice before sending your son off to school to be the doing of clothing manufacturers during the latein pink since nowadays it is deemed a girl’s colour. But boys 1940s deciding on a swap simply because boys liked bluewearing pink was the norm in the Victorian period. This was and girls were fed up with always wearing it (sound familiar?).a time that gave rise to a number of curious customsand traditions that have many of us in the 21st century It wasn’t until the 1980s when parents could find outstill scratching our heads over today, such as whether the sex of their child and outfit the nursery with the nowor not it would be socially acceptable to have little boys “appropriate” colours, thus cementing the colour change inwear frilly white dresses until the age of seven. But this stone, or in store as the case now is. Although, thanks towas the norm in the 19th century with dresses considered clothing stores, our children are very much still segregatedas gender-neutral and a matter of practicability simply into their designated colours, adults at least are a littlebecause the cotton they were made from was easier to more liberal, with men on occasion wearing the colour pinkbleach (not to mention the ease of nappy changes). without fear of being scorned or laughed at.Not only was it considered appropriate to place young boys In today’s world where it is considered fashionablyin dresses, but to deck them head to toe in the colour pink, acceptable to wear next to nothing by both genders itwhile for girls the colour of choice was blue. This tradition wouldn’t hurt us to step into the wardrobe of our Victorianlasted well into the 1940s so it should come as no surprise era counterparts and proudly strut our stuff.that many baby boomers were dressed in colours we nowassociate with the opposite sex.So, why did the Victorians associate pink with boys andblue with girls I hear you ask? It was because pink wasconsidered masculine and a variation of red which wasa war like colour, more suited to boys while blue wasmore delicate, cooler and dainty and thought to beprettier for girls. 35

know your sunscreen Slip, slop, slap: nobody likes the sting of sunburn. But do you know the science behind the how and why the sun burns our skin? dan everettIn Australia our harsh sun rays necessitate protective such as freckles and liver spots appear. This accumulativemeasures such as the use of sunscreen and choosing damage is known as photoaging.the right sunscreen can be a confusing process. Here weexplain some of the features of sunscreen and dispel some Ultraviolet radiation also causes skin cancer. UV radiationcommon myths. penetrates and is absorbed by skin cells, releasing heat and damaging their DNA. Regulatory genes attempt to repairWhat are “Sun rays”, Electromagnetic Radiation the damage or kill the cell if there is too much damage.and Ultraviolet Radiation? Your peeling skin is the many skin cells that have died. Also, the regulatory genes themselves can be corruptedThe sun releases great amounts of energy into the solar by UV radiation resulting in uncontrolled division leading tosystem: electromagnetic radiation. The differing types of skin cancer. The cancerous cells continue to multiply andelectromagnetic radiation are sorted on a scale based on eventually spread throughout the body if not caught earlytheir wave length and effects (see below). The skin cancer and removed.causing Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is further divided into UV-C, UV-B and UV-A. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation comes in three types:Skin Damage from Ultraviolet Radiation UVC has the shortest wave length and most energy but, similar to X-rays and gamma rays, it is completely absorbedSunburn is acute inflammation of skin cells as a result of by Earth’s atmosphere and therefore poses no risk to us.irradiation from the sun and results in reddening, swellingand blistering of the skin. In each UV radiation exposure the UVB has a longer wave length than UVC which allowsskin repairs damaged cells imperfectly: the skin becomes it to pierce Earth’s atmosphere to reach the surfaceless elastic, wrinkles form and pigment imperfections and penetrate the top layers of the skin. It is primarily Electromagnetic Spectrum36

responsible for sunburn and contributes to photoaging Sunscreens with the water resistant labelling can be rubbedand skin cancer. off during vigorous activities or towel drying so reapply every 2 hours to maintain their advertised protection.UVA How much sunscreenUVA has the longest wave length and least energy but thegreatest infultration. It penetrates deeper into the skin and To receive the advertised protective benefits of sunscreencontributes to photoaging and skin cancer while causing it is vital that sufficient sunscreen is applied and reappliedminimal sunburn due to its lower energy. regularly. The Cancer Council recommends the average- sized adult uses 35ml for full body protection. It shouldSun Protection Factor be applied 20 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every 2 hours especially in situations where the sunscreenSPF is the measurement used to rate the UVB filtering could be wiped off.effectiveness of sunscreen.Common Australian SPF ratings are: Sunscreen is Safe“SPF30” - blocks 96.7% of UVB radiation so 3.3% of theradiation penetrates. Sunscreens in Australia are regulated by the Australian“SPF50+” - blocks 98% of UVB radiation so 2% of the Therapeutic Goods Administration who test the safety andradiation penetrates. effectiveness of sunscreens. Despite the safeguards inAs you can see the SPF number refers to the fraction of place and the danger of UV radiation some people avoidUVB radiation that penetrates the sunscreen. sunscreen because they do not understand the ingredients and their fear of the unknown is stronger than the knownIn practice, this means that 1 minute of unprotected UV threat of UV radiation.exposure is equivalent to 30 minutes UV exposure whenprotected by SPF30 sunscreen. However the effects of UV Tanning is no Substitute for Sunscreenradiation are cumulative so minimising harmful radiation isthe best option. Skin cells release melanin in response to UV damage. They then darken the skin and increase protection against UVSunscreens labelled “SPF50+” are actually required to be at radiation. However, skin pigmentation represents a SPF ofleast SPF60 in testing: the difference is treated as a margin between 1-13 significantly lower than sunscreens offeringof error. SPF50+. Furthermore the process of tanning to increase UV protection ironically means exposingBroad spectrum yourself to more UV radiation and suffering long term accumulative damage.Following growing concerns regarding the damaging effectof UVA radiation sunscreens have begun including UVA Sunscreen Summaryfiltering ingredients such as Zinc. These sun screensare labelled broad spectrum and offer both UVB and UVA UVA and UVB radiation causes accumulative damageprotection. to the skin and causes sunburn, photoaging and skin cancer. Sunscreen is safe and selecting SPF30 or SPF50+Water resistance sunscreens with broad spectrum protection will help reduce the accumulative damage of sun exposure to a fraction.In Australia water resistant sunscreens are required to For full effectiveness sunscreen needs to be applied inmaintain an SPF of at least 30 after being immersed in sufficient quantity and regularly.water for the claimed time period. For example a sunscreenclaiming “4 hour water resistance” must be at least SPF30 when tested after 4 hours of water submersion. 37

it’s all gone Newcomen Street Baths swimmingly Another interesting swimming baths that is sadly now non- Newcastle is steeped in existent is the old Newcastle Municipal Baths. Where the swimming bath history. From the City Arcade is situated in Hunter Street east, a fascinating Bogey Hole to a beach in Mayfield. story of a forgotten swimming baths unravels. This was Newcastle’s first indoor baths and was erected Yes, a beach in Mayfield! beneath the western entry to the arcade around 1888 at a cost of £4,500. A clue to the arcade’s past appeared kay laming recently in an alcove outside the arcade’s Newcomen ryan stanmore Street entrance. The drawing depicted what looked like a ralph snowball - UoN large pool in the foreground, surrounded by white columns with solid roof trusses above. There was a trapdoor in the The Bogey Hole arcade floor which led to a subterranean world which was then the Municipal Baths. The Bogey Hole is an example of construction from the The long empty pool still exists beneath the feet of earliest European settlement. Built by soldiers (some say passers-by, dark and stuffy and very claustrophobic. There convicts) in 1819 for the personal use of Major James is no public access to this area; the only people who see Morriset, (a notable figure from the early period of European it are the occasional tradespeople who will come across settlement in Australia) was the first recorded ocean pool a strange set of steps built into the sides of this unique built on the NSW coast. basement. These steps lead to nowhere as the floor of the arcade is laid above the crouching visitor’s head. Major Morriset, the second last governor of the Penal Settlement, had a hole excavated into the rocks, Newcomen Street swimming baths, by Ralph Snowball, a part of the Norm which he used as a bath. It was then referred to as The Barney Collection, Cultural Collections, University of Newcastle Commandant’s Bath. In about the 1860s the council acquired the baths and it grew progressively till it is the size it is today. So, why do we call major Morriset’s bath, the Bogey Hole? There are different beliefs as to where the name Bogey came from, but the most convincing is from the Canon Carlos Stretch’s Aboriginal Words where bogey means, to swim or bathe. Most Novocastrians at some stage have swum in the iconic baths and all realise how dangerous it used to be to descend the cliff into the pool, and having to hang onto the chain surrounding it when a large wave would come crashing in! There has been the occasional tragedy, which has led to new safety precautions, including new hand rails and stairs.38

The new baths (new at the time) were very Ladies Rock Pool at Merewether Beachpopular attracting 6,000 men and boys in its firstweek as it was more than 30 years before our The men swam south of the Merewether ocean baths inpresent Newcastle Ocean Baths were erected. a spot known as the Gulf. In 1907, after a shark attack, aIt was a very elaborate venture for pre-1900s petition was lodged to provide a safer swimming location,Newcastle. Fed by seawater pumped from the change sheds and lifesaving apparatus at Merewethereastern end of Scott Street, the baths could Beach. After improvements were made, The Statebe filled in 6 hours and emptied in 1, which Parliament, defined Merewether as the finest beach in thewas necessary as the coal miners would jump state.in straight from the mines, not showeringbeforehand, leaving coal scum around the edge…GROSS!!! A Beach in Mayfield!The baths had 50 open and 50 closed cubicles, several Did you know that Mayfield used to have a beach locatedshowers and 85 electric lamps supplying the lighting, which on the banks of the Hunter River? Of course it is no longerwas not common in those times. Many carnivals and races there. This beach was called Shelley Beach or Shell Beachwere held there until ocean surfing and bathing became Park. It was the last area of waterfront land from Newcastlemore popular. This, along with the fact that no women were to Sandgate and it formed part of Platt’s Channel. Johnpermitted to enter, gradually led to a decline in patronage. Laurio Platt had the grant the beach laid on, and he used itEventually, to increase their visitor numbers, women were as a wharf on his 2,000 acre plot in and around 1835. Headmitted, but only every Thursday from 6am to 4pm. This believed it to be an aboriginal midden (a midden is a placewas not enough and in February 1907, Newcastle sold where Aboriginal people left the remains of their meals),its lease of the baths as a possible dance hall or concert that contained evidence of thousands of years of Aboriginalspace. habitation. The beach was a popular spot for families and courting couples.Soldier’s Bath After the war, things were changing, BHP paid anAnother forgotten about swimming baths is Soldier’s Baths, undisclosed sum for the property and in 1950, 2 channelsbuilt by James Russel in 1882, a free bathing place for the of the Hunter River were filled in. On the 50th anniversarypublic and for the soldiers from Fort Scratchley. It was of the opening of the Newcastle Steelworks, the directorslocated at the very southern end of Nobbys Beach. The of BHP, as a gesture of good-will for the people of Mayfield,shape of the baths was a rough semi-circle, made by piling declared they would build an Olympic swimming pool with arocks loosely in the form of a breakwater but after 50 odd children’s pool, at a cost of £80,000 ($160,000). The poolyears of heavy seas the pool wore away. The shape is still was officially opened to the public on Nov 12th 1966 and isrecognisable but not to the extent it used to be. As for the known as Mayfield Swimming Pool.dressing sheds erected by the council at the time, theyhave also long since washed away in our turbulent waters. 39Ladies Rock PoolIn the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the beaches weremainly segregated. The ladies and their children chose toswim in a safe location which is still used today, althoughby both sexes not just women. Ladies, as was its nameback then, and still today, is located opposite the surfhouse on Merewether Beach.

a stinging study Abuzz with apocalyptic stories, the media has in the past reported of the pending extinction of the honey bee and along with them, the starvation of the human race. phillip harrison richard louis The internet; a honey trap of half truths, sensationalism, human race owed to the fact that 90% of the world’s food trolls, out of date information, agendas, bad science and crops are pollinated by bees. plain old lies. The media at large has been abuzz with apocalyptic stories Cause for alarm over the past few years, reports of the pending extinction of the honey bee and along with them the starvation of the One of the main culprits for this doomsaying stems from a 2013 Harvard University research paper lead by40 Chensheng Lu which argues that, “... sub-lethal exposure to neonicotinoids impaired honey bees winterization before proceeding to colony collapse disorder”. This study set out to determine whether neonicotinoids are the cause of ‘Colony Collapse Disorder’ (CCD), the sudden abandoning or die-off of beehives. Neonicotinoids commonly referred to as neonics, is a relativly new form of pesticide introduced in the 1990s. Unlike other pesticides the toxin is sprayed and is absorbed into the plant, though it is only effective for a few weeks and nothing remains once the crop is ready for human consumption. Lu declared that the experiment found that 50% of the beehives treated with neonics and one control hive completely died off during the winter. Due to the release of this study the internet exploded with what could be called hysteria, painting a picture of the end is nigh and demonising neonics in the vein of DDT of the 80s. Raising Questions This study has been called into scrutiny for reasons such as figures not matching real world statistics, symptoms did

90000000 Number of Beehives Worldwide8000000070000000 Number of Beehives Worldwide600000005000000040000000300000002000000010000000 0not match CCD, small sample size of only 18 hives at three taking precautionary steps to combat the threat oflocations across the US and higher than regular exposure to CCD. These measures include the publication of severalneonics. neonicotinoids management practice guides and the holding of symposiums, bringing together people in theRandy Oliver, a commercial apiarist states that Lu spiked industry and scientists to discuss how to best carrythe bee’s sugar water with 100 times the amount of forward for bee’s future prosperity.neonics found in pollen or nectar. Lu also fed the beesevery week for 13 straight weeks though in the real world The most likely cause for CCD is a combination of usualbees are fed just a few weeks at most. factors that affect wildlife such as climate change, infections and pollution. Though this is not common enoughIn February 2014 the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary for us to start hoarding the cans of creamed corn yet.Medicines Authority (APVMA) released a report on thehealth of bees in Australia and the contribution of neonics While a threat to bees is a threat to humans there is noto CCD. The APVMA made the recommendation that evidence for concern for the foreseeable future. ThoughAPVMA have no information or evidence that current this does not mean we can become complacent as naturegenerations of neonicotinoids treated seeds has been an is like an electronic device and any failure of one componentissue in Australia. has adverse effects on the entire device.A look at a few countries that are major users of neonicsshows that bee populations remain relative stable while theuse of neonics is increasing. Australia had a sudden drop inbee population from 2006-2010 but has since stabilised.Neonics where introduced 15 years ago so we cannotdraw the conclusion that neonics was the cause.Countries like France that have put restrictions in placehave not seen a rebound.What does the future hold for bees?Government Agriculture Agencies around the world are 41

worm your way into the garden Want to reduce your household food waste? Just find a sheltered area on your balcony or in your garden, set up a worm farm and get ready to create soil-superfood for your garden. paul cunningham A typical worm farm container is plastic, it has a secure lid burning plants. Solid waste, known as castings, takes longer and a tap at the base. Worm farms can be purchased at to produce and its quality will depend on your worms diet. most hardware shops. Once you have your container, you will want to buy a box of compost worms and perhaps some Worms eat and live underground so covering food will peat or non-toxic cardboard to seat them in. Place the increase their speed of consumption. Worms also eat hair, cardboard down, then add kitchen vegetable scraps with so a common means of covering them is with a hessian bag. the worms and cover this with a hessian bag. Simply lift the hessian covering and put the food under it, Keep in mind that compost worms eat more than the garden eventually the bag will need to be replaced as it gets eaten. variety earth-worker worm and prefer softer vegetable matter over leaves and grass. Also, if you are using a Compost worms can be fed vegetable scraps, tea bags multi-level worm farm container they often end up at the and non-toxic cardboards for example, pizza boxes and egg bottom away from the food source. It maybe necessary at cartons. Avoid feeding your worms spices, onions, citrus or times to collect them and place them back in the above acidic foods like pineapple. Your worms won’t like meat, fish, compartment with the food. poultry, dairy, sharp edged foods like egg shells. Also, avoid Worms create both solid and liquid waste that is good for feeding them too much until their numbers increase and soil and plants. The liquid waste must be diluted to avoid gradually increase their feeding as they speed up. Worms will try to escape if they are unhappy. Worms prefer non-acidic, slightly warm and slightly damp but not wet environments. Find a place where you can keep them cool in the hottest summer days and dry when its raining. Basements are ideal. Worms breathe using the mucus in their skin to break down oxygen, so they need to be moist or they will suffocate. Too much water however and they will try to leave their home to avoid drowning. Remember, if your worms are unhappy they will try to escape. If they get out they will die unless soil or moisture is nearby. So, keep your worms comfortable and happy and they will double in number and keep producing worm tea for your garden.42

GROW WHERE YOU ARE PLANTED 43

gluten free rich double choc chip cookies marnie buckland lettuce ketchup in the kitchen Ingredients Method 125 grams of dark cooking chocolate 1. Pre heat your oven to 160c or 140c fan 100 grams of butter chopped forced. 2 cups gluten free flour 3/4 cup of brown sugar 2. Melt dark cooking chocolate and butter over 2/3 cup of caster sugar low heat in a small saucepan until combined and ¼ cup of baking cocoa smooth, then set aside to cool slightly. 1 tsp. of bi carb soda 2 eggs (lightly beaten) 3. Whisk the flour, both brown and caster 1 tsp. vanilla extract sugar, cocoa powder and bi carb soda into a 230 gram packet of baking chocolate chips large mixing bowl until well combined. 4. Add the lightly beaten eggs, vanilla extract and chocolate mix. Stir until combined then add the chocolate chips. 5. Roll cookies to desired size placing them roughly 5cm apart and bake for 18 minutes.44

gluten freeginger oat cookies marnie bucklandIngredients Method3 + 1/2 tbsp. (40g) coconut oil (melted) 1. Line 2 baking trays with non-stick baking1 cup (110g) gluten free rolled oats paper. Preheat oven to 175c (150c for fan1 cup (110g) oat flour (or rolled oats finely ground) forced).3/4 cup (100g) all-purpose gluten-free flour1/3 tsp. stevia powder 2. In a large bowl, combine the rolled oats,1 tsp. baking soda oat flour, gluten free flour, stevia, baking soda,1/2 cup (60g) nuts, roughly chopped nuts of choice, orange peel, ginger, cardamom,1 heaped tsp. candied orange peel, cubed cinnamon and salt.1 + 1/2 tsp. stem ginger, finely cubed1/2 tsp. cardamom 3. In a smaller bowl, stir together the coconut1/2 tsp. cinnamon nectar, melted coconut oil and oat milk. Pour1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt (or rock salt) the wet mixture on the oat mixture and stir until1/4 cup (90g) coconut nectar (or maple syrup) well combined.6 tbsp. (90ml) oat milk 4. Shape level teaspoon of the mixture into balls and place approximately 5cm apart on a baking tray. Flatten balls to 1cm thickness. 5. Bake for 12-13 minutes or until the cookies are golden brown. Allow to cool slightly before transferring to a wire rack. 45

the type rider the rain marnie buckland Ask a nurse why they chose their job the answer will usually up a conversation with a stranger on the train? Perhaps be, because I want to help people. I guess in hindsight that’s we were a bit loud, we weren’t sitting in the quite carriages why I was so drawn to the elderly man…. But as usual I’m but were surrounded by people with headphones plugging getting ahead of myself. Let me start from the beginning. their ears, and eyes glued to their various devices. I bid him farewell, as my stop approached and I made my way off the It was pouring down with rain and the wind was whistling train at the station and began my long walk to work. through the trees heaving back and forth, threatening to break under the force. I was checking up on my patients My day became a blur with one patient after another. before lunch when I first noticed him. He looked to be Working in the cardiology ward was both emotionally and an ordinary old man, his clothes rain soaked and a little physically taxing so I’m always glad to see the end of a long rumpled. I sent a small smile his way, earning one in return work day. The warmth of my house and a good cup of black and thinking nothing of it I continued on with my day. tea is what the doctor ordered. Too lazy to cook I put a frozen macaroni and cheese in the microwave and become This man didn’t cross my mind again until I saw him on the lost in thought until the loud obnoxious beep from the train during my morning commute to John Hunter Hospital microwave brought me back to reality. a few days later. I noticed that he was in the same rumpled clothes as last time I’d seen him, rain spots and all. It was another two weeks until I saw the elderly gentlemen again. He was wondering the halls of the hospital looking “Did you get caught in the rain again?” I asked, pointing to a little distressed and lost. I began following him, trying to the man’s old brown trench coat. “A little” he replied with catch up to offer my assistance but he rounded the corner a pleasant smile. I made idle chit chat with the gentlemen, at the end of the corridor as my name was called to do ignoring the questioning looks I received from the other patient rounds, and I had to abandon my aim. passengers. Was it really so strange these days to strike46

Putting the old man out of my mind I focused on my work good book but today I found myself in front of my laptopmaking sure my patients were happy, on their way to researching for true ghost stories. I couldn’t help feelingrecovery and ultimately home. After rounds, came staff the unease of yesterday making its way into my mind againmeetings and patient reports, then, just before night shift as I read countless tales of people’s hauntings and thechangeover I noticed a new patient’s chart. So I went to warnings of others who were still experiencing the terror.introduce myself and collect any medications she may The more I read though, the more my story just didn’t seemhave brought in with her. I entered room 18 and politely to fit. He’d never once given off a ‘frightful aura of menace’introduced myself to a sickly and frail elderly woman who or any of the other things that I had read. Closing my laptop Iwas surrounded by family. She told me her name was Audrey decided to go outside and clear my thoughts.as we began to go through her medication schedule. Whata sweet old lady, I thought and I made notes on her chart for As I sat overlooking the beach I felt the old man’s presencethe doctor and night nurses before leaving. before I saw him. This time it was him who approached me with all the caution of a wide eyed woodland creature. I feltThe next morning I checked on Audrey, greeting her and the tension melt away as a look of sorrow appeared on hisher daughter. While taking her vitals I noticed a framed face and a few moments of unsure silence passed betweenphotograph of a smiling Audrey with the elderly gentleman us until he finally spoke. “It’s their sadness keeping meI’ve been running into. “When your husband arrives would here”, he said as he took a seat beside me. “Audrey’s and myyou like me to show him in?” I asked, smiling as I wrapped the daughter’s”.Velcro cuff of the blood pressure machine around her arm.The look of sadness that passed over her face puzzled me Not knowing what to say had seemed to be my go tobut that was nothing compared to the effect the words that response these days. I mean what could I say… ‘I’m sorrycame from her daughter’s mouth had on me. They made the this is happening”? Or just plain “I’m sorry”. It didn’t seemblood freeze in my veins. “My father passed away a year ago, right or even up to the task of covering what I wanted to sayin a car accident near the train station” she said stroking her to him, and for once in my 5 year career as a nurse I’d comemother’s hand. across a soul I just couldn’t comfort or heal in some way.I fumbled my way through an apology, and the rest of my We both sat in a comfortable silence for a while enjoying theduties in the room passed by me as if I was on auto pilot. smell of the ocean and sunshine and as quickly as he hadMy heart in my stomach, the feeling of fear and uncertainty appeared he was gone leaving me alone. I felt at a loss anddidn’t leave me all day. After my shift I lay awake trying to frustrated because for once I couldn’t begin to understandpiece together, or at least rationalise what had happened how to help, or even if I could help in some way. I wouldthat day. have tried harder had I known that was the last time I’d ever see him.Ghost couldn’t be real, could they? I mean, I had seen andtalked to this man over the past three weeks and he hadbeen right in front of me looking and sounding as real asanyone else.I left the warmth and comfort of my bed as the first raysof the sunrise crept their way into my room. Usually on aday off you would find me curled up on my lounge with a 47

puzzles selina mcdonell C S H N N E WCA S T L E M R A M P L O Z A AP TDRAD I BSU I C I E A A H MOMC PG E RONEA I E P H R C MC O T I E I E GDRGL E N D A L E M B H R G L WRWM I X LML N U B DW E T A I D T OBO T F TEOE A D E R E S O R S I ODTRNFSTNE I L L S T R N L SWN AO T A PAOT BO E C A H S A E E A L ERHRPANTAK Y GN E S E S T RXML L OEERVN I E E N RWA T RNCDQL I LOLKAKO T A R A OO V E E A K C S OH F F C F WM D O N WW A R AOYO T DCNARO T A A M S A N L S T RNUOOAHTE P R OM L E MK E B H B A D C L E L I GWC A S T A A A N A ADKN K ABSNCD L WT H B I F T Y Y E A E T ORONT O T I O I H T S I Y A F RS ODAOEOR B OWF K L C NMG I I L NOBBYS S Y I N N R A V E O S I S L I NGTONN A N G L D N I H T E RHA RRSNDSOM A A F L DW MS K N EW L AMB TON B R Y I O Y O Find a word Adamstown Glendale New Lambton Bar Beach Hamilton N ewcastle Belmont Islington N obbys Broadmeadow Kotara Singleton Cameron Park Lambton S tockton Cardiff Maitland Swansea Charlestown Merewether Toronto Dudley Morisset Valentine Edgeworth Morpeth Wallsend Eleebana Nelson Bay Warners Bay48

Newcastle’s famous people quiz1) Which Newcastle woman was crowned Miss Universe in 2004?2) Who was the 2000 Olympic male Swimming Champion in the 200m Butterfly?3) I am the 2012 Master Chef Winner.4) Who is the retired Newcastle Knight that captained the most games?5) Who is the female wheelchair track Para Olympian?6) Who was the Musical Director of Australian Idol 2003-2008?7) I am the host of Bondi Vet.8) I am a world renowned sculptor and painter (born 1899, died 1970).9) Who is Newcastle’s four times World Champion Surfer?10) Who was the singer in Silverchair?11) Who is the former female star of Hi Five?12) I am the director, writer and star of Young Einstein.13) Who is the Home and Away and Cloudstreet Actor?14) Who is the youngest Paralympian Winner in swimming?15) I am the lead singer of the Screaming Jets.16) I starred alongside Kiefer Sutherland in 24.17) I star in House Husbands alongside Gyton Grantley and Gary Sweet.18) I am a reporter for the ABC Foreign Correspondent.19) I am a former Newcastle Golfer.20) Who is the co-star with HG Nelson?21) I was a host on the NRL Footy Show and played for the Newcastle Knights (1988-99).22) I am a former Australian female cricketer; first woman to get a double century.23) I am a stand-up comedian and was a regular contestant on Good News Week.24) Which male swimmer had his international swimming debut in 2010? 49

comic Doug the carGextbroidxof Dog phone DOUG beer By Sally Wright By Sally Wright and RicRhaicrdhLoauairsnddLouis50