The move is set to see the state’s educators go from being among the worst to the best paid in the country.

Under the agreement, endorsed by the Teachers Federation Council, starting salaries will increase from $75,791 to $85,000, and payments for those at the top of the scale increase from $113,042 to $122,100 from 9 October.

It’s the most significant uplift in teachers’ salaries seen in NSW in almost three decades.

A restructured pay scale will now include seven steps ensuring a more rapid progression.

The Chris Minns government is hoping the pay increase will take pressure off working families who need a reliable public education system.

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said the agreement marked a step in the right direction.

“I am so proud that today we are able to give teachers the pay rise they so urgently deserve,” she said.

“Just over five months ago, the Labor was elected with a mandate to sit down and negotiate a new deal for our teachers, and that is exactly what we have achieved.

“The endorsement of this agreement marks an important step forward for teachers, as well as for students and families, as we work together to rebuild the state’s public education system.”

NSW Teachers Federation acting president Henry Rajendra said the wage increase would benefit education as a whole.

“This historic advance has been won by thousands of teachers who campaigned tirelessly,” he explained.

“They are passionate about the teaching profession and absolutely committed to giving all kids a decent shot at life.

“Teachers will benefit from this agreement which will immediately begin tackling the teacher shortage. The ultimate beneficiaries are our children. Investing in teachers is investing in the future.”

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Struggling to utilise a downstairs space connecting a kitchenette and storage area, he contacted the owner of Ortenburg Interiors for advice. 

From her studio, Juli and her son Justin, an architecture graduate, classical musician, and seasoned sketcher, began creating a space she fondly refers to as ‘The Man Cave’. 

“Initially the client wanted only to upgrade the kitchenette and had not given much thought to the adjoining storage area,” says Juli. 

“I asked him what he intended to use the area for.  

“His response was a place to entertain friends and family visiting from Sydney.  

PLANNING 

Agreeing on the overall direction and budget for the man cave, Juli set about measuring the space and sketching a basic layout. 

The concept was modelled digitally in 3D while she ensured adequate storage remained priority. 

“This included display shelving for his collection of spirits, liqueurs, and memorabilia, cabinetry under the bar and a bar fridge, dishwasher, sink, and as much cupboard space as possible in the new repositioned kitchenette.” 

Final plans were completed in Computer Aided Design (CAD), including cabinetry drawings, lighting, plumbing, and electrical markings, before Juli organised each trade. 

PROBLEM SOLVING 

To utilise the space more effectively, Juli and her team had to add an extra 200mm to the storage area. 

She devised a plan, together with her go-to engineer, that included removing a wall and replacing it with a reinforced steel beam. 

“200mm doesn’t sound like much but can make a world of difference to the usability of a space,” Juli says. 

“We re-plasted the ceiling where needed, problem solved.” 

UNIQUENESS 

Juli’s next “a-ha” moment came when she spotted a recurring theme. 

“My client had several model vintage motorcycles along with a sign he had made that read ‘Dad’s Bar – again’,” she said.

“This prompted me to pursue this theme, using colour and texture to create a dark and moody vintage/industrial vibe. 

“At the completion of the project, taking pride of place in the centre of the bar, flanked by the floating shelves, is the ‘Dad’s Bar’ sign, a decidedly quirky finishing touch adding homely warmth and familiarity to the space.”  

COLOUR AND TEXTURE 

It was a feature on the cupboards that became a subtle nod to the linearity of machines, adding another texture to the man cave. 

Using Polytec’s Botanica as the choice of green added yet another layer of depth. 

“Wallpaper was also an effective way to introduce textures,” says Juli. 

“And, I simply couldn’t resist including a colour clothweave  which struck a balance between grunge and velvety elegance, while solid Tasmanian oak added a raw simplicity to the otherwise deep and rich palette.” 

UNITY 

Juli says repeating a feature in two separate areas is a clever way to unify the space. 

In this case she used the same engineered stone bench top in both the bar and kitchenette. 

“The kitchenette has a much sleeker silhouette, using dark wenge grain cabinetry and a smoky mirror splashback. However, there remain references to the adjoining space, including the matt black handles featuring the same lineal grooves as the under-bench cupboards in the bar.” 

ADVICE 

If you’re thinking about renovating, Juli suggests homeowners take the time to familiarise themselves with the house, coming to terms with likes and dislikes, what works and what doesn’t, before taking action. 

“Scrolling through Pinterest and Instagram for inspiration can be a great starting point, but the infinite options available might overwhelm you into a state of indecisiveness,” she warns. 

“It’s worth noting that not all styles or trends are going to work for your property, and an expert will help you narrow down the possibilities and find a direction that’s appropriate to the existing building.” 

With more than 25 years in the industry, Juli can offer fresh advice for any challenging spaces. 

“Having an experienced professional guiding you can be such a game changer, saving you so much expense and headache in the long term. 

“We can come up with solutions you may never have considered that add value to your property.” 

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LGA: Newcastle 

Part of Islington’s appeal is its diversity. 

The gentrified suburb that sits on the fringes of Hamilton and Wickham, is just a stone’s throw from Newcastle’s waterways and CBD, making it popular amongst a range of age groups. 

It is home to one of Newcastle’s largest parks, is nestled on the banks of Throsby Creek and boasts plenty of walking and cycling paths and a popular off-leash dog park. 

Food lovers are spoiled for choice too, with an array of cuisines on offer from every corner of the globe. 

Its shopping, services, bars and cafes make Islington a destination in itself. 

Its diversity also stretches to its real estate landscape, says Green St Property licensee Peter Aloupis. 

“I’d say its vibe can be described as ‘new renaisSance’. 

“As it becomes more popular, we’re seeing prices reaching up to $2 million and even $4 million.  

“We just sold a block for $495,000 and with so much going on in the way of development, it’s a suburb that continues to grow and attract new buyers.” 

Suburb Amenities: 

Suburb snapshot:  

Central to both Beaumont Street and Maitland Road, Islington is abuzz with shoppers and diners most days, and into the nights.   

It is home to new developments that will offer a range of housing options from basic townhouses to luxury apartments. 

“It’s getting a new flavour to it,” Aloupis says. 

“It’s exciting to see Islington progressing into an enviable suburb that is gaining attention from buyers near and far.” 

24 Fern Street, Islington 

Land size: 236 sqm 

$495,00 Sold at Auction on 15 July 2023 

Agent – Josh Mana 

4/113 Albert Street, Islington 

3 bed 3 bath 2 car Townhouse 

$1,074,500 Sold on 12 April 2023 

Agent – Josh Mana 

3/113 Albert Street, Islington 

3 bed 3 bath 1 car Townhouse 

Sold for $1,080,000 on 16 May 2023

Agent – Peter Aloupis 

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The boon is thanks to the Broke Shared Pathway extension project, allowing better pedestrian access between popular tourism businesses and the Broke Village. 

Stage two of the Broke Shared Pathway project will welcome an additional 800 metres of path installed on Milbrodale Road from James Herbert Bridge to Hill Street. 

Singleton Council’s director infrastructure and planning services Justin Fitzpatrick-Barr said with over 300 local residents and thousands of tourists visiting the Broke village each year, the shared pathway would provide opportunity for recreational walking and cycling, as well as provide an integral link between vineyards and accommodation venues to McNamara Park, which is extremely popular for campers and community events, as well as Broke Skate Park and the village store. 

“The extension of the Broke shared pathway creates better links throughout the Broke village, and we are extremely pleased to have NSW Government Resources for Regions funding to enable this important project to be realised,” he said. 

“We know from the first stage of this project that simple community infrastructure like a shared pathway absolutely elevates the convenience, attractiveness, and overall liveability of the village not just for residents, but for visitors as well. 

“This is a great outcome for connectivity and amenity in the township of Broke and is a fantastic starting point in linking the beautiful cellar doors and accommodation businesses along the Broke Fordwich Wine Trail back to the village centre.” 

Broke Residents Community Association Inc worked closely with council on the successful Resources for Regions grant applications in round seven and round eight of the program to fund both stage one and two of the Broke Shared Pathway project.  

Group president Mick McCardle said the extension of the shared pathway represented a potential boost for local tourism. 

“The shared pathway connection opens up more opportunities for people to experience cultural attractions like our cellar doors, connecting accommodation venues off Milbrodale Road back to the village centre,” he said. 

“While stage one of the project was centred around village amenity and providing a transport link for kids and their parents to walk or ride safely, this next stage is equally important and exciting as it starts to connect key businesses on the Broke Fordwich Wine Trail and will allow visitors as well as locals to experience our village on foot or on two wheels.” 

The $740,210 Broke Shared Pathway extension project is expected to be completed by the end of October, weather permitting. 

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Under his guidance, the independent panel is in the process of evaluating more major commercial, industrial residential and community and civic developments. 

Dr Pollard and his team considered 71 items worth more than $600 million during 2022, assessing both the design quality and possible improvements of proposals. 

He also acted as council’s jury representative for two design competitions in 2022, including The East End Stage 3 and 4 redevelopment and $100 million redevelopment of the former Spotlight site in Newcastle West.  

“We are also looking for more ways to make connections to Country in the design of public domain spaces,” he said. 

“Good design is not merely creating good looking public spaces and buildings. It is anchored in an understanding of city making, and in creating enduring, functional and uplifting environments, for work, recreation and living.” 

The panel is expected to be kept busy in coming years, with Newcastle set to undertake a range of upgrades as part of the Greater Newcastle Metropolitan Plan 2036. 

Infrastructure alone will need to prepare for an expected 20% population growth. 

Under the plan the former steel city is expected to expand its workforce in health, education, defence, tourism and the creative sectors. 

It will also enable diversity of uses in larger retail centres including housing, offices and recreation, and plan for jobs closer to homes by boosting city centres in regional areas. 

Housing will also need a boost, together with major transport connections.  

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says she is confident the panel will help bring Newcastle through its latest growing stage.  

“City of Newcastle’s Urban Design Review Panel is reputedly the oldest continuously serving urban design and architectural advisory body in the state of New South Wales,” she said. 

Urban development

Award-winning SJB architect and Newcastle resident Adam Haddow agrees Newcastle is ripe for development.

“It’s like the perfect mix of Melbourne and Sydney. It has the restaurants and bars of Melbourne and it has the lifestyle and beaches of Sydney.”

Mr Haddow’s firm was one of three to win the Premier’s Prize at the 2022 NSW Architecture Awards for its design of Newcastle East End Stage 1.

Judges said Haddow and his team had delivered on “connecting communities with their local environment”.

The challenge moving forward, he says, is keeping enough old buildings in the CBD to acknowledge and celebrate the past and make sure it’s there for future generations.

High-speed rail

The Australian Government’s vision for faster interstate travel took an important step forward on Friday 25 August, with the High Speed Rail Authority (HSRA) board converging on Newcastle for its first meeting in the area.

The get-together followed on from the group’s detailed briefing with Transport NSW officials regarding the existing corridor between Sydney and Newcastle.

The HSRA began operations in June 2023 planning to lead, plan, develop, coordinate, oversee and monitor the construction of a high-speed rail network in Australia.

Broadmeadow Precinct

After a review conducted by The Cabinet Office the Broadmeadow Precinct project is once again ‘on the table’, with plans to transform the inner suburb into a sports and entertainment hub.

On 21 August, Property Council’s Hunter regional director Anita Hugo said plans could now continue at all levels of government.

“Lifting the pause will ensure that important planning work can continue and it’s pleasing to see such a rapid response to this after having raised it with government recently,” she added.

Newcastle Light Rail

Talk of light rail connecting the CBD to the Broadmeadow sports and entertainment precinct is abuzz within governing circles.

Earlier this year, Cr Nelmes admitted a tram service to take in several locales, including McDonald Jones Stadium, would help locals and visitors alike.

The NSW Government is requesting a preferred transport corridor for Newcastle, including light rail, be accelerated to provide certainty in planning for all stakeholders.

Transport for NSW expects its findings to be completed in coming months and will subsequently publish a report outlining the option.

Stakeholders including council, the DPE and Hunter and Central Coast Development Corporation continue to be engaged in the investigations with Transport for NSW.

Newcastle Airport

Further afield the Newcastle Airport expansion is now well underway, with the former steel city preparing for international travel.

Direct flights to Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific from Newcastle are being touted, depending on commitments from larger airlines.

The new passenger terminal is set for completion at the end of 2024.

The Williamtown address will also welcome defence industries operating out of Astra Aero Lab, adjacent to the airport.

Airport bosses believe the benefits of the upgrades will mean $13 billion to the local economy over the next twenty years.

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The four-hour event at NEX doubled as a fundraiser and thank you for the group’s supporters. 

The money raised on the evening takes the campaign total to $1,322,282. 

The non-government charity that provides much-needed assistance to those facing hardship in the Newcastle community is hoping to raise $1.8 million for a new home base. 

After 20 years of working from its CBD address, Soul Hub, previously Soul Café, has secured a rent-free tenure of 437 Hunter Street. 

The move is thanks to a partnership with the Ian and Shirley Norman Foundation. 

It will allow the provision of a fit-for-purpose designed space, aptly named “The Hug”. 

The Hug will include seating for up to 150 people, a full commercial kitchen, engagement rooms for doctors and health specialists, a laundry service, as well as health and wellbeing spaces. 

On 30 June, Soul Hub CEO Rick Prosser announced the ambitious plan to raise the money to bring the dream to fruition. 

“We never had a dream to build a big organisation or a brand,” he said. 

“We had no vision to do that sort of thing.  

“But, we had a deep conviction to do what we can with whatever we have for those who come in through our door, they are some of the most vulnerable people in our community.” 

Soul Hub is now in its 20th year. 

It began with a few men, Bill Elkington, Max Barrett and Ken Gibson who initiated a breakfast in Denison Street to those they say obviously needed something to eat.  

Two decades on… and the dozen Soul Hub volunteers provide an array of assistance. 

“We provide everything from a hot meal to drug and alcohol programs, accommodation assistance and laundry service,” Rick says. 

“Our guests receive comfort, food, friendship, and a helping hand in numerous forms – think haircuts, podiatry, dental and legal-aid.” 

The eight-month Big Ask campaign is progressing. 

Having acquired a Construction Certificate, builders have begun the interior redevelopment. 

“Walls are going up and services are being installed,” enthuses Rick. 

At the Big Ask Gala the group announced ongoing support from the Wests Group of $300,000 thanks to the 2023 Club Grants round.  

The evening also offered a chance for Rick and his team to publicly thank Dr Milton and Maureen Sales for their pioneering work in establishing the Soul Clinic in 2010.  

The Soul Clinic has provided specialised help by health professionals to its guests with the support of the Brunker Road Medical Practice managing a roster of doctors volunteering their time.  

This initiative became the catalyst for many more health professionals volunteering expertise in their chosen field and other services providing practical help.  

“This work caused Soul to become more than a meal,” Rick added. 

“Today it’s a convergence of help and we are thankful for the committed sacrificial work of Dr Milton and Maureen Sales.” 

“Newcastle we are on the move and we’re asking for help to get there. At a time of increasing need in our community we invite and welcome our community to journey with us to establish the new Soul Hub location.”  

The statistics: 

• Soul Hub has been serving the people of Newcastle since 2003. 
• It has dished up 48,667 meals since its opened. 
• It relies on its more than 200 volunteers to exist. 
• Nearly one in every 200 Australians are currently homeless. 
• An estimated one in five Australians aged 16-85 experience a mental health disorder each year. 
• Nearly 50% of those experiencing homelessness have suffered a substance abuse problem, with roughly two-thirds of those occuring as a result of their homelessness. 

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Hope Estate at The Landing showcases the brand’s range of enviable wine, beer and spirits, complemented by a tapas menu curated by its executive chef Anthony Fullerton. 

Owner Michael Hope says this exciting address is designed to bring a new experience into the city. 

“This is a taster bar in more ways than one.” 

Michael Hope

“Yes, we’re offering tastings of our wine, beer and spirit products and it’s also going to give Novocastrians an insight into what will be on offer at Hope at Honeysuckle when it opens. 

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The historic township will now permanently welcome two daily return train services between Singleton and Newcastle seven days a week.  

In fact, passengers now have six return options to Newcastle on weekdays and four on weekends, with Singleton trains also connecting with services to and from Sydney. 

The permanent additional services are the result of more than a decade of campaigning and a three-and-half-year trial. 

Singleton mayor Sue Moore is calling on the LGA’s residents to leave the car at home and take full advantage of the permanent additional passenger train services in Singleton. 

“This is a great achievement for the community, and a campaign that council has whole-heartedly supported, particularly as part of the Singleton Advocacy Agenda over the past five years, and we are incredibly grateful to the NSW Government for listening to us and taking our feedback on board,” she stated.

“I’m extremely excited that these new passenger services will remain in operation permanently and, more importantly, to see the people of Singleton and all the way down the line putting them to good use so we can leverage even more services. 

“I’m thrilled with this outcome and congratulate everyone who has been involved in the countless meetings, letters and petitions over the years to achieve this result, in particular the tireless work of the Two More Trains for Singleton group.” 

Cr Moore said council would continue to lobby the state government for even greater public transport options for Singleton to improve connectivity throughout the LGA and the greater Hunter region. 

“It’s critical that the level of service in Singleton is further enhanced for the future prosperity of the Singleton area and while these permanent extra services are a step in the right direction, it’s not unrealistic to expect the same service level as other locations on the Hunter line such as Maitland,” she added.  

“In the interim, I encourage everyone to take out the stress of traffic and parking — the train really is a good option for wherever you’re headed.” 

Two More Trains for Singleton spokesperson Martin Fallding said the group would continue to push for better train timetables, meeting with representatives from the NSW Government and council in Singleton on Monday to discuss. 

“The community is encouraged use train services to not only ensure they continue, and to support the provision of more frequent services,” he said. 

“I am more than confident that if council and Two Trains for Singleton continue to work closely together to advocate for public transport services that Singleton needs into the future, we will achieve positive outcomes.” 

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But, the 25 riders can rest assured their efforts have helped raise much-needed funds for seriously-ill children. 

The cyclists will cross the finish line on 9 September of what has been a 500km journey from Grafton to Newcastle. 

The group’s ridden for five consecutive days with the aim of raising $200,000 for Ronald McDonald House Charities Northern New South Wales (RMHC Northern NSW). 

This is the last leg of the 19^th annual Ride for Sick Kids (RFSK) event. 

Riders are expected to arrive at the car park at Ronald McDonald House Newcastle, in the John Hunter Hospital precinct, to the cheers of well-wishes. 

Their efforts will cover the costs of 1,481 nights of accommodation at a Ronald McDonald House.  

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) is an independent charity that helps 60,000 seriously-ill children and their families each year.   

Those like Newcastle youngster Emma, who has been receiving treatment at the hospital since her Leukaemia diagnosis in July last year. 

Emma and her family have been able to take a break from the hospital ward to meet friends and family, grab a cuppa or do some laundry at Ronald McDonald House. 

She, along with her siblings Belle and William, has also been supported by the Ronald McDonald Learning Program, which has provided them with a tutor so they can keep up with their schoolwork. 

“The support we have received from Ronald McDonald House Charities since Emma’s Leukemia diagnosis has been incredible,” says Emma’s mum Alex. 

“As a family we are extremely grateful to have been able to have holistic support for our whole family during this incredibly difficult time.” 

RMHC Northern NSW CEO Ross Bingham said at the start of the 2023 Ride for Sick Kids that the event doubled as a significant reminder. 

“The challenges the cyclists will face as we ride 500km from Grafton to Newcastle over the next five days is nothing in comparison to the challenges a family faces when their child is diagnosed with a serious illness.”  

Cyclists have travelled from Grafton to Coffs Harbour (104.9km), Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie (167kms), Port Macquarie to Forster (92.5kms), Forster to Salamander Bay (112kms), and Salamander Bay to Newcastle (54.5kms). 

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