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1 The Buzz A newsletter for Defence members and families based at RAAF Williamtown Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012 [email protected] www.thebuzznews.webs.com Disclaimer: Please note that the views expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Newsletter Team, nor are they endorsed by RAAF Base Williamtown. No responsibility shall be accepted for the accuracy of the information herein. All enquiries will be forwarded to the actual author of respective articles, who will in return answer any questions.

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Page 1: The Buzz · The Buzz is commencing an online survey of its readers, in order to determine which sections of the Buzz newsletter and website are most useful, what the distribution

1

The Buzz

A newsletter for Defence members and families based at RAAF

Williamtown

Issue 23

Jan-Mar 2012

[email protected]

www.thebuzznews.webs.com

Disclaimer: Please note that the views expressed in this newsletter do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the

Newsletter Team, nor are they endorsed by RAAF Base Williamtown. No responsibility shall be accepted for

the accuracy of the information herein. All enquiries will be forwarded to the actual author of respective

articles, who will in return answer any questions.

Page 2: The Buzz · The Buzz is commencing an online survey of its readers, in order to determine which sections of the Buzz newsletter and website are most useful, what the distribution

The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

2

Welcome to the first issue of the Buzz for

2012!

My goodness, it is January already! The

Christmas rush seems ages ago, and the

other day I saw Easter eggs in the

supermarket... It’s a really busy time of

year, but I hope that the start to 2012 has

been a happy one for you and your

family. The Buzz enjoyed a great year in

2011, and we are looking forward to

sharing many more stories, reviews,

events and recipes with you this year.

This edition of the Buzz is the final one for

two of our valuable team members, who

have contributed to the content and

production of the Buzz throughout 2011. A

huge thank you to Brenda Carlson and

Charne Saunders for all you have done –

we wish you safe travels and all the best

in your new posting locations.

Speaking of postings, I’d like to welcome

all those for whom this is their first posting

to the Hunter region – there are so many

fabulous things to do and see in this area!

We hope you really enjoy your posting

here, and take advantage of all it has to

offer. Don’t forget to check out a

‘buddies’ group in your area, and also

take a look at the craft group, toy library

and playgroup information. All the groups

are really welcoming, and would love to

see some new faces!

The Buzz is commencing an online survey

of its readers, in order to determine which

sections of the Buzz newsletter and

website are most useful, what the

distribution of the Buzz actually is, and

whether readers have suggestions about

improvements that could be made. This

survey will help us with making the Buzz

what you want it to be, and also inform

any future funding applications. The

survey can be accessed at:

http://www.kwiksurveys.com?s=OCELOJ_

643d1c6c

The Buzz is also on the lookout for new

volunteers to contribute articles or

information, especially now that Brenda

and Charne are leaving. If you would be

interested, please send us an email!

Topics in this issue:

Welcome events

‘Buddies’ groups

Playgroup, craft group and toy

library

Events Guide

Defence Families Australia

Childcare, education and special

needs

Child Support Agency

Gan Gan Family Centre

Food review

Something for me!

Kids corner – make a stegosaurus!

Recipes

Groups contact list

DSTA & DTM contacts

Telephone directory

Craft group fundraiser

We prefer to email The Buzz Newsletter so

if you receive a hard copy & would prefer

to save paper please email us and let us

know.

If you have stories or information to share

with other Defence families, or would like

to get involved with The Buzz newsletter

we would love to hear from you!

Thanks & looking forward to your emails!

The Buzz Team –

Laura, Kelly-Anne, Brenda & Charne

Please send submissions in Microsoft word

format, font size 12 to:

[email protected]

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

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2012 WILLIAMTOWN/NEWCASTLE WELCOME EVENTS The aim of these events is to provide practical information for new families and to link up these families to those already in the area. Williamtown Meet and Greet Date: Sunday 12 February 2012 Time: 10am – 2pm Venue: Fighter world Museum, Williamtown. Format: It will involve an official Welcome from RAAF Base Williamtown

Representatives. There will be jumping castles, a petting zoo, facepainting, sausage sizzle, displays, information stalls.

Contact: [email protected] (Nicholle) Raymond Terrace Meet and Greet Date: Wednesday 1 February 2012 Time: 10 am – 12 noon Venue: Raymond Terrace Bowling Club Function Room Format: Guest speakers, show bags and morning tea provided (from club). Families are invited to stay for Buy Your Own lunch Contact: [email protected] (Bron) Newcastle Meet and Greet Date: Thursday 16 February 2012 Time: 10 am – 12 noon Venue: The Adamstown Club, Brunker Road, Adamstown Format: Informal morning tea (from club) and a chat. Contact: [email protected] (Colleen) Maitland Meet and Greet Date: Monday 13 February 2012 Time: 12 noon – 1:30 pm (Booked 11:30- 2pm) Venue: Shamrock Hill Multipurpose Centre, Ashtonfield Format: Information stalls, show bags and light lunch provided. Contact: [email protected] (Emma) Nelson Bay Meet and Greet Date: Friday 17 February 2012 Time: 10 am – 11:30 am (Booked 9am -12 noon) Venue: Tomaree Library and Community Centre (Waratah & Grevillea rooms) Format: Information Stalls and morning tea provided. Contact: [email protected] (Carolyn)

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

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Hi and Welcome!

We are a support group for Defence partners who live in the Raymond Terrace,

Medowie and Williamtown areas, who meet on the first Wednesday of the

month, with the location changing between friends’ homes, cafes & parks.

We also have lunches, social events and themed parties, and we try and throw in

a ladies & couples night too.

We generally meet during the day, this way it doesn’t take us away from our families, and it’s usually the time

that we’d like the company, when the children are at school and hubbies at work.

Children are always welcome, just bring along their favourite toy or blanket, a drink and some snacks.

This group is about support, so you are more than welcome even if your children are at school, or even left home.

Please feel free to offer suggestions or to host a get-together, as this is your group, and we try to accommodate

everyone. This group isn’t just about numbers though – It is about the get-togethers, and getting together is an

important part of helping each other out as much as we can.

We are on facebook, so look us up at Terrace Buddies, as all of our events are posted on our page, so keep an eye

out for them. Sometimes it’s just nice to get out and have a chat, especially with friends that understand.

We’ve moved plenty of times and have had to make friends too.

Please don’t hesitate to let any of us know if we can help make your posting that little bit easier.

Email [email protected] or call Bron – 0405 846 245

Hope to see or hear from you soon.

Upcoming Events

Wednesday 4th January – Welcome 2012! @ Fighter World Café – 10am

Wednesday 1st February –Terrace Buddies Welcome Meet & Greet @ Raymond Terrace Bowling Club – 9.30am

Sunday 12th February – Williamtown Meet & Greet @ Fighter World Museum – 10am-2pm

Wednesday 7th March – TBA

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Hunter Buddies Well I cannot believe I’m writing this in December – where has the last year

gone?

My beautiful family and I are moving and so this is a farewell from me. And we

are so excited to be starting this new adventure not only in our new home but

also with a gorgeous new addition to our family – we are due early Jan.

When we first moved to East Maitland, there was no active buddies group in the

area. So I started one and from that group many other groups in Singleton,

Maitland & Newcastle have been formed, which is just wonderful as the more

support for Defence families the better.

There was also no Defence Transition Mentor at Maitland Grossmann High School

so I campaigned to have funding for that role. Now we have the gorgeous Katie

Lewis working with Defence children and what a fantastic job she is doing – the

kids just love her!

The Buzz Newsletter’s co-ordinator Jenny Fleming was retiring, leaving no-one to

take over the role. So using the Hunter Buddies facebook page I asked many

ladies to get involved. Now we are so lucky to have the magnificent Laura

performing the role of Project Officer with her team of gorgeous gals – Kelly-

Anne, Charne’ and hopefully in 2012 a new team breathing fresh air into the

newsletter!

Family Space on base was under threat of being removed permanently and so I

with eleven other gorgeous women representing all of the Defence Groups on and

off base formed a working party. We were asked to write a proposal, asking

Defence to provide us with a space on base. This proposal has been given to

Defence, DCO, DFA and CAF and it looks as though the future of a permanent

family space on base is brighter than ever. I would like to thank each and every

person for taking the time to fill out & return the survey, for writing letters,

emails, etc & showing their strong support. A huge thank you to DFA delegates

Julie Dryden and Cara Cook, and of course Julie Blackburn for putting all of your

support behind this venture. You made our plight that much easier! And we did it

for all Defence families so my heartfelt thanks for that!

All of these issues were a great passion of mine and now that they have been

ticked off the list as achieved or nearly there. I can happily leave the Hunter with

the next very important agenda item to be addressed – a new, cuddly baby & I

can’t wait!

I wish you and yours the most wonderful Christmas and if you are moving on or

new to the area I wish you safe travels and hope you are happy in your new

home

Cheers Brenda Carlson

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We are an informal group of Defence spouses located in the Maitland area, in suburbs such as

East Maitland, Ashtonfield and Thornton. All of us know how hard it is to have no family support nearby and to find good GP's, shopping, schools, childcare, etc in a new posting.

Our aim is to provide a support network for defence families in the area through regular meet-ups, dinners, and other social events.

Our members consist of those with young children, those with school aged children and ladies who work or study. Those without children are particularly welcome as it can be sometimes hard to

make social contacts in a new posting straight away. So we cater for everyone.

2012 Welcome Event

The Maitland welcome event for 2012 will be on Monday 13th of February from 12-1.30pm at the Shamrock Multipurpose Centre, Ashtonfield.

The aim of the event is to provide practical information for new families moving into the area and to link up these families up to those already in the area. A light lunch will be provided.

For more information, contact:

Emma - Ph 0452 223 641 or Karen - Ph 0416 144 088

Email: [email protected]

Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/groups/defencefamilies/

Do you have some spare time and feel like lending a helping

hand to support other Defence families?

Williamtown Toy Library would love to hear from you! You can attend for a couple of hours

whenever you wish, so that Defence members and families are able to access this brilliant

resource.

Contact: [email protected] www.williamtown-toylibrary.webs.com

The Buzz Newsletter welcomes all contributions of articles/information and assistance to

compile and print. If you have something to share with other Defence families, this is for you!

Contact: [email protected] www.thebuzznews.webs.com

Williamtown Welcome Baskets needs people who can spare some time to put together

baskets to welcome newly posted-in families.

Contact: Cindy [email protected]

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Williamtown Toy Library

We have a fantastic range of toys for children including baby toys, large outdoor play equipment, ride-on cars, games, puzzles, books and DVDs. There are also

parent resource books available.

The Toy Library is located in the DCO building on McNamara Drive, and is open every second Monday (after pay-day)

from 10:30am til 12noon.

All Defence members, APS staff and contractors are welcome to join.

Check out our website www.williamtown-toylibrary.webs.com

Or email us at [email protected]

Williamtown Playgroup

If you have children aged birth to 4yrs then why not bring them to playgroup? Playgroup is an informal session where mums, dads, grand parents, caregivers, children and babies meet together. We go to Playgroup to meet new people and catch up with others; as well as to play with the children. Playgroup is run on a volunteer basis by parents whose children actively attend playgroup. Each week activities are set up to meet varying needs. Activities include: music and singing, imaginative play, outdoor play, free play, art and craft activities, cooking, and outings. All children love new experiences and benefit from developing sensory, social and communication skills through activities at playgroup. The Williamtown Playgroup house is easily accessible on base with indoor and outdoor facilities. We have cots for babies who usually nap at this time too! From 10 January 2012 Playgroup will operate on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings from 10.00am to 12.30pm. Fruit is supplied for morning tea. For more information please email [email protected] or visit our facebook page „williamtownplaygroup‟ or call Melissa on 0411777910. If you do not have a pass to get on the Base, please let us know so we can make arrangements for you. See you at Playgroup!

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WILLIAMTOWN CRAFT GROUP

Welcome to 2012!

We would like to invite you to join our craft group - we are a lovely

group of ladies who all share a love of craft over a cuppa. We have

various levels of crafters ranging from beginners to those who teach us

new techniques - everybody is welcome!

We have a programme for each term - we do cardmaking,

scrapbooking, patchwork, origami, sewing, jewellery making and lots

more.

We are so lucky to have our wonderful crèche worker Marion who

entertains our children with games, craft, singing, dancing, storytelling,

etc, the kids don’t want to leave they have so much fun.

The Williamtown Craft Group runs from 10am – 12noon on Wednesdays

at the Kitty Hawk Club (next to Frontline) on the Williamtown RAAF Base

(except School holidays), and we would love to see you there. Come

along and meet us, and while you are there you may surprise yourself

with a wonderful creation that you make some new friends.

Looking forward to meeting you!

Jo Fallows

Ph 49817415 or email [email protected]

Debbi Jeffrey

Ph 49817621

Please don’t hesitate to call or email Jo with enquiries and requests.

Defence Special Needs Support Group (Williamtown)

PO Box 552 Raymond Terrace 2324 Email: [email protected] National Office: 1800 037 674 Phone: Cheryl (Area Coordinator) 4982 8882 or 0407 263 696 Carolyn (Assistant Coordinator) 0427 008 084 or 4982 5270

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Events guide The Newcastle, Port Stephens and Hunter regions have activities and

events to suit a variety of ages, interests and budgets!

Date Event Details

February

Hunter Street

Markets

Every Fri, Sat and Sunday

Most Sundays Newcastle City

Farmers and Craft

Markets

Newcastle Showgrounds, off Griffiths Road,

Broadmeadow

www.newcastlecityfarmersmarket.com.au

Every Sunday Adamstown Lions

Markets

Corner Glebe & Brunker Roads, Adamstown Contact

Info: (02) 4952 2133

Every

Weekend

Day

Morisset Markets Morisset – www.megamarkets.com.au

First Sunday

of the Month

Maitland Markets Maitland Showgrounds

4 & 5 Shiraz and

Chocolate Tasting

Festival

Branxton

11th and 25th Historic Morpeth

Cruise

Venue: Departs Lee Wharf, Newcastle When:

9.00amCost: Adult $79, concession $74, student (12 -

17 years) $64, children (3 - 11 years) $54 Organisation:

Nova CruisesContact: +61 400 381 787, Email:

[email protected]

17 19 Feb Newcastle

Caravan and

Camping Expo

Newcastle Entertainment Centre and showgrounds

March

Hunter Street

Markets

Every Fri, Sat and Sunday

Most Sundays Newcastle City

Farmers and Craft

Markets

Newcastle Showgrounds, off Griffiths Road,

Broadmeadow

www.newcastlecityfarmersmarket.com.au

Every Sunday Adamstown Lions

Markets

Corner Glebe & Brunker Roads, Adamstown Contact

Info: (02) 4952 2133

Every

Weekend

Day

Morisset Markets Morisset – www.megamarkets.com.au

First Sunday

of the Month

Maitland Markets Maitland Showgrounds

9th 10th 24th Historic Morpeth

Cruisers

Venue: Departs Lee Wharf, Newcastle When:

9.00amCost: Adult $79, concession $74, student (12 -

17 years) $64, children (3 - 11 years) $54 Organisation:

Nova CruisesContact: +61 400 381 787, Email:

[email protected]:

www.novacruises.com.au

31st – 1/4 Maitland Food

and Wine Festival

Maitland

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April

Hunter Street

Markets

Every Fri, Sat and Sunday

Most Sundays Newcastle City

Farmers and Craft

Markets

Newcastle Showgrounds, off Griffiths Road,

Broadmeadow

www.newcastlecityfarmersmarket.com.au

Every Sunday Adamstown Lions

Markets

Corner Glebe & Brunker Roads, Adamstown Contact

Info: (02) 4952 2133

Every

Weekend

Day

Morisset Markets Morisset – www.megamarkets.com.au

First Sunday

of the Month

Maitland Markets Maitland Showgrounds

7th and 9th

and the 24th

and 25th

Historic Morpeth

Cruise

Venue: Departs Lee Wharf, Newcastle When:

9.00amCost: Adult $79, concession $74, student (12 -

17 years) $64, children (3 - 11 years) $54 Organisation:

Nova CruisesContact: +61 400 381 787, Email:

[email protected]:

www.novacruises.com.au

28th and 29th Steamfest Maitland

Jennie from Pride Dry Cleaning and Laundry (on base) advises their customers that they will be re-opening on Monday 30th January

Buzz reader survey

Have your say in what the Buzz should look like in the future –

without your input and feedback, we can’t advocate to

keep the Buzz going!

The survey can be accessed at:

http://www.kwiksurveys.com?s=OCELOJ_643d1c6c

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Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is a ministerially appointed group that represents the views of Defence Families. Its aim is to inform Government and Defence on the needs of the family. Its goal is to ensure quality of life for all Defence Families by providing a recognised forum for their views and by reporting, making recommendations and influencing policy that directly affects families. In turn, this enhances the capability of the Defence Force.

Defence Families can contact DFA to represent them regarding an individual situation or to advocate an issue concerning many families. Voices: Stories of Defence Families – Book Giveaway Defence Families of Australia is celebrating 25 years of Representing Defence Families in Government and Defence forums. As part of the Jubilee celebrations, we have highlighted the unique experiences of Defence families alongside the significant sacrifices of ADF members in a book. DFA is giving away free copies to Defence Families thanks to our sponsors Defence Health, DHA, ADCU and RANCCF. Email [email protected] with Voices Giveaway Buzz in the subject line, your name, address and a tip for Defence Families living in the Hunter. New Local Family Representative for Williamtown/Newcastle Hi! My name is Emma and I am the new Defence Families Australia Local Family Representative for the Williamtown/Newcastle area. I have been a Defence spouse for over 10 years. This is our second posting to Williamtown and we have lived here for almost four years. Prior to that, we were posted to Adelaide. My role involves keeping in contact with local Defence families in the region, referring these families to suitable local agencies/organisations if required and to communicate any issues or concerns to the DFA National Delegate and/or National Convenor. Please do not hesitate to contact me directly should you require any assistance. Emma MacDonald 0452 223 641 or [email protected]

www.dfa.org.au DFA Infoline 1800 100 509

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

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Williamtown Child Care Centre

Hi Everyone, We have had a wonderful end to our year with our Pre-School Graduation and Family Christmas BBQ. Thanks to all of our families who were able to come along and join in the fun. A special visitor dressed in red made a guest appearance in a Base Fire Truck! He was very popular with the children and many secret Christmas wishes were shared. The Pre-School children also proudly accepted their Certificates and entertained us with some Christmas songs. Our garden is beginning to look a bit bare now. The snow peas have been enjoyed fresh from the garden, as have the carrots and lettuce leaves. Some children tasted the broad beans and thought that they were yummy! Kimbo, our cook, has been chopping the apple cucumbers for the children to enjoy with their morning tea. Kimbo has also cooked the children some hamburgers so that they could enjoy the fresh lettuce. We bid a sad farewell to our Pre-Schoolers who are heading off to „big school‟. We also sadly farewell some of our families who are Posting out. We wish them all good luck! If you have any childcare needs or would like to be placed on our Waiting List, please feel free to contact us. We welcome all enquiries and hope to see you here! We are looking forward to another great year in 2012. Stay Tuned! Dianne Sanger Centre Director Williamtown Child Care Centre Ph: 49 650342 / extn 46569 [email protected]

DEFENCE TRANSITION MENTOR

at Maitland Grossmann High School

My name is Katie Lewis and I have been appointed to the new role of Defence Transition Mentor (DTM) at Maitland Grossmann High School. My role is to provide information, support and referral for students from Australian Defence Force families. I have been a Defence spouse myself for over 12 years, and have done postings in Brisbane, Canberra, Darwin, Adelaide and Newcastle. I have a background in primary teaching and special education, and have four children of my own. My role includes welcoming and farewelling Defence students at our school, supporting students through postings and deployments, referral to support services, linking students to school and community programs, monitoring students‟ day to day social and emotional wellbeing and raising awareness in the community of Defence related issues faced by our students. I have already had the pleasure of running a “Cards for The Troops Workshop” for the students at school, and organising a Farewell Lunch for several students posted away for next year. Hopefully, this role is already making a difference to some young people from ADF families. If you are considering an enrolment at Maitland Grossmann or I can help you in some other way, please contact me at school on 4934 2066 or via email at [email protected].

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Thornton School Hits the Mark Parents and students of Thornton are very proud of their school. After a journey of reflection and investigation, the school communication team discovered some important perceptions and understandings about the school. Using focus groups, parent and student surveys plus visual review information, we developed the following key messages. The school was seen as a place of Learning, Caring and Opportunities. We are a Big School with Many Opportunities. With activities such as dance, choir, sport, arts, environmental education and Gifted and Talented programs, we are a well placed to meet and extend every child. We are seen as a school with an Excellent Reputation. Outstanding results in external tests, strong traditions, happy children and consistent uniform wearing means the school is well regarded in the community.

Parents see the school, as Welcoming Caring and Nurturing. We have an active P&C and school council, pro-active well being programs and excellent pastoral care. These combine to mean our school is vibrant, supportive and inclusive. Our teachers support the Quality Teaching, Quality learning ethos of the school. We are committed to delivering quality education for every child. Our dedicated caring and compassionate teachers challenge and inspire their students. Clear Communication is vital for any high functioning organisation. With our outstanding website, educational Blogs, friendly readable newsletter and open communication, we are a school well placed for the 21st century.

John Millburn - Principal

Thornton Public School

Being deployed? - Helpful information for separated parents Are you an ADF parent who pays child support through the Child Support Agency (CSA)? Are you being deployed to another location? If you answered “yes” to both of these questions, a new CSA factsheet can help. Being deployed? Tips to help you manage your child support is an essential “to-do” list for your child support arrangements when you’re preparing to go on assignment. The factsheet covers things like: - updating your contact details - telling us your expected deployment period - advising of any changes in care for your kids - lodging any outstanding tax returns - setting up easy payment methods, like employer deductions. Before you go, you may wish to enrol to use CSAonline – the CSA’s secure online service – so you can do your business with us when it’s convenient for you. Enrol now to view payment details, view and print letters and send secure messages. Want more information? Read the Being deployed? factsheet on the publications page of www.csa.gov.au Enrol now for CSAonline on the www.csa.gov.au homepage

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The Gan Gan Family Centre (Located in the grounds of Anna Bay Public School - near the back gate on Old Main Road).

The Gan Gan Family Centre would like to wish all Defence Members and their families a Happy 2012. The Gan Gan Family Centre, based in Anna Bay School, is a “Families NSW” initiative and part of the state-wide “Schools as Community Centres program (SaCC). The Centre is a useful resource for families living on the Tomaree Peninsular and supports all families with children from birth to eight years. It has a particular focus on the under fives to promote happy healthy children and give them a positive start to school.

If you are new to the area, or looking to increase your network and local knowledge, The Gan Gan Family Centre is a great place to start. The Centre offers information and referrals to local groups, services and resources in addition to the following services and programs based in the Centre itself:

Transition to School Playgroup

Play and Read Playgroup

Supported Playgroup

New Parents Group

Positive Parenting Programs (Triple P).

„Toys on Tap‟ Toy and Book Library

Child Health Clinic (by appointment)

Financial Support with Wesley Mission (by appointment).

In addition to its core groups and services the Centre has some new programs for Term 1:

Horticultural Community Garden Course in partnership with TAFE OUTREACH

Women on Wednesdays: an opportunity to meet other women (including women with defence partners) and top up your Vitamin Me!

Parenting Solo: A program for separated or divorced parents.

SAFE KIDS: interactive program for children and parents

All group programs are FREE and childcare is available.

For further information on groups, programs or local services and resources please call The Centre Facilitator (Jacqui) on 4982 1767

Food review

My family and I were recently in Newcastle enjoying a walk along the foreshore

and a look around Fort Scratchley, when we decided to try to find some lunch.

Being a public holiday, not everything was open, and we didn’t want to pay a

fortune for overpriced fish and chips. Thank goodness for Sprocket Roasters HQ

cafe! They had a nice selection of all day breakfast and lunch dishes, snacks,

sweets, organic and gluten free options and the best coffee we have had in a

long time. The atmosphere was friendly and relaxed, and we were very impressed

with all of our food. I would certainly recommend a visit, particularly if you

appreciate being able to choose your coffee from a range of single origin or

blended beans!

Sprocket Roasters is at 68 Hunter St (Cnr Watt St), Newcastle

Ph 4009 1237

Laura Edwards

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Something for ME!

Career Education & Employment for Women Course No. 9072 – Certificate 2

Are your children at school? Looking to go back to work or change your career? This one semester, free TAFE course could be the answer to your questions.

Builds Confidence.

Study subjects which develop your work related skills and general education.

Get the skills you need to enter the further study.

Improve your communication skills.

Improve your employment opportunities.

Includes work experience.

Interested? Ring Donna at Maitland TAFE 49302926 to register your interest.

Information Session Wednesday, 25th January, 2012 at 10am – Room C.1.22

Classes begin Tuesday, 7th February, 2012 – 9.30 to 2.30, 4 days per week

There will be another course in Semester 2.

Live closer to Newcastle? Ring Newcastle TAFE @ Tighes Hill on 131225 for info

about their course.

New for 2012: Women on Wednesdays, at the Gan Gan Family Centre. Make looking after yourself one of your new years’ resolutions for 2012. As mothers, grand mothers, and partners we often forget to take our “Vitamin Me!” This bi-monthly group for women is a great way to:

• Have a short break from the kids (child care provided).

• Network with other women and widen your horizons.

• Share knowledge.

• And laugh (a lot!). WHEN: Wednesday the 8th and 22nd of February 2012 & Wednesday 7th and 21st of March from 12.30pm -2.30pm. WHERE: The Gan Gan Family Centre, Anna Bay COST: FREE with FREE child care. Bookings required. For more information contact Jacqui or Liane (a defence partner) on 4982 1767.

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

16

Kids corner

Make your own stegosaurus!!

Print this page on cardboard or coloured paper, then follow the instructions...

Download this template and many more from http://www.rain.org/~philfear/download-a-dinosaur.html

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

17

RECIPES

We hope you enjoy one of our favourite recipes below for scrolls. It makes a lovely entrée or snack. (Thanks to B4Kids for the recipe!)

Tomato and Cheese Scrolls or Vegemite and Cheese Scrolls Sheets of frozen puff pastry Pizza base sauce or vegemite Grated tasty Cheese 1. Spread pizza sauce or vegemite onto puff pastry sheet 2. Sprinkle lightly with grated tasty cheese 3. When pastry has softened, roll sheet loosely 4. Cut 1.5cm rounds and place flat on a greased tray 5. Cook in a moderate oven until puffed and golden

Eggplant rolls (Serves 4 )

2 large eggplants – cut from top to bottom into 6-8 slices Filling: 250g ricotta cheese 2 tbsp shredded fresh basil leaves 2 tbsp currants 2 tbsp slivered almonds or pinenuts 2 tbsp grated parmesan ¼ cup breadcrumbs 1 egg Jar plain tomato pasta sauce Grated cheese 1. Preheat oven to 180 C, and grease a lasagne dish 2. Spray eggplant slices with oil and fry each side until browned and tender 3. Combine filling ingredients in a bowl 4. Pour half the pasta sauce into the baking dish 5. Put 1 heaped tbsp filling onto an eggplant slice and roll up. Place seam side down into baking dish and repeat with remaining slices. 6. Pour over remaining pasta sauce and sprinkle with cheese 7. Bake for around 25 minutes, and serve with green vegies

Muesli Bars 2 cups rolled oats 1 cup rice puffs (or 2/3 cup bran and 1/3 cup more oats) 1/3 cup plain flour ½ cup caster sugar or dextrose ½ cup desiccated coconut 1 cup chopped dried fruit 2/3 cup nuts and seeds 1/3 cup olive oil 3 eggs 1 tbsp honey 1 tbsp golden syrup 1. Preheat oven to 160C, and line a lamington tray 2. Combine dry ingredients 3. Whisk wet ingredients together, then add to dry ingredients and mix well 4. Press into pan and bake 20-30 minutes or until lightly browned 5. Cool in tray then turn out and cut into portions Ideas for dried fruit: apricots, apple, pear, dates, currants, sultanas, raisins, prunes, cranberries Ideas for nuts and seeds: walnuts, almonds, peanuts, pecans, cashews, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds (pepitas), sunflower seeds You can use any combinations of whatever is in your pantry, and adapt to suit tastes, budgets and of course any allergies etc

Easiest scone recipe ever 3 measures self-raising flour 1 measure lemonade 1 measure cream Mix together, gently pat flat and cut out scones. Bake 10 minutes at 180C To make a savoury variety – use sour cream and soda water instead, and add grated parmesan

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

18

Groups Contact List

GROUP CONTACT WHAT, WHEN & WHERE?

Terrace Buddies

Medowie

Raymond Terrace

Bron Mills 0405 846 245

terracebuddies@bigpond.

com

Buddies get together for chat and coffee

Every 1st Wednesday, various locations

Information listed on Facebook

Buddies in the Bay

Nelson Bay

Salamander Bay

Corlette Anna Bay

Debra Mould 0423 766 378

[email protected]

u.au

Buddies get together at various times and

locations

Hunter Buddies

Newcastle

Maitland area

Singleton

Brenda 0401 018 281

[email protected]

u

Buddies get together at various times and

locations

Information listed on Facebook

Defence Families

Maitland

East Maitland

Ashtonfield

Thornton

Emma 0405 300 404

Karen 0416 144 088

defencefamiliesmaitland@

gmail.com

Informal support network, various times

and locations

Information listed on Facebook

Newcastle Buddies

Newcastle area

Maricel Abraham

newcastlebuddies@gmail.

com

Info sharing, support and get-togethers at

various times and locations.

Information listed on Facebook.

Singleton Buddies

Singleton area

Leanne 0439 711 897

[email protected]

tionarmy.org

Coffee, cake and conversation!

3rd Tuesday at 10am

DC Hall, Infantry Drive, Lone Pine Barracks,

Singleton

RAAF Williamtown

Playgroup

Melissa 0411 777 910

williamtownplaygroup@hot

mail.com

Friendly playgroup where parents and

bubs all make new friends.

Information listed on Facebook.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays & Thursdays 10am-

12:30

Henderson Road, RAAF Base

The Defence

Special Needs

Support Group

Cheryl Jones 4982 8882

[email protected]

National Coordinator 1800

037 674

Support, information, assistance and

advocacy for all ADF families who have a

dependent, with Special Needs

Williamtown Craft

Group Inc

Jo 4981 7415

[email protected]

www.williamtown-craft-

group.webs.com

Friendship, support with a cuppa and a bit

of craft for good measure

Information listed on Facebook.

Wednesdays 10am-12noon (except

holidays)

Kitty Hawk Club, RAAF Base

Williamtown Toy

Library

Danielle 0439 457 596

[email protected]

m

www.williamtown-

toylibrary.webs.com

A variety of toys for hire – a catalogue with

photos is available.

Open every 2nd Monday from 10:30 til 12

Located at DCO

Williamtown

Umbrella Support

Group Inc

Diane Ryan 4981 7042

[email protected]

Liaison group between DCO and base

groups

Williamtown

Welcome Baskets

Group

Cindy Gower 4982 8696

[email protected]

Obtain items and assemble bag of

goodies for newly posted-in RAAF

personnel and their families

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

19

Defence Transition Aides and Mentors – Hunter

SCHOOL NAME ADDRESS PHONE/FAX

ASHTONFIELD PUBLIC

SCHOOL

Melissa

McMellon

Norfolk Street

ASHTONFIELD 2323

Tel: (02) 4934 3584

Fax: (02) 4934 3510

GRAHAMSTOWN PUBLIC

SCHOOL

Deborah

O’Donoghue

Hastings Drive

RAYMOND TERRACE

2324

Tel: (02) 4987 6510

Fax: (02) 4987 6513

SINGLETON HEIGHTS PUBLIC

SCHOOL

Joanne Tucker Dorseman Drive

SINGLETON 2330

Tel: (02) 6573 1363

Fax: (02) 6573 1414

SOLDIERS POINT PUBLIC

SCHOOL

Kim Roberts Cromarty Street

SOLDIERS POINT 2317

Tel: (02) 4982 7151

Fax: (02) 4982 0576

ST BRIGID'S CATHOLIC

PRIMARY SCHOOL

Catherine

Garrett-Jones

52 Irrawang Street

RAYMOND TERRACE

2324

Tel: (02) 4987 2625

Fax: (02) 4987 6088

THORNTON PUBLIC SCHOOL Kristine Soutar Government Road

THORNTON 2322

Tel: (02) 4964 1369

Fax: (02) 4964 1157

TOMAREE PUBLIC SCHOOL Deb Hersant Salamander Way

SALAMANDER BAY

2317

Tel: (02) 4981 1595

Fax: (02) 4984 2275

WIRREANDA PUBLIC

SCHOOL

Karen Schieb Brocklesby Road

MEDOWIE 2318

Tel: (02) 4982 8707

Fax: (02) 4982 8097

IRRAWANG HIGH SCHOOL Glenda de Wit

(DTM)

Mount Hall Road

RAYMOND TERRACE

2324

Tel: (02) 4987 4687

TOMAREE HIGH SCHOOL Debra Mould

(DTM)

Salamander Way

SALAMANDER BAY

2317

Tel: (02) 4981 1444

MAITLAND-GROSSMANN

HIGH SCHOOL

Katie Lewis

(DTM)

Cumberland & Dixon

St

MAITLAND 2323

Tel: 4934 2066

SINGLETON HIGH SCHOOL (DTM) York St

SINGLETON 2330

Tel: 6571 1199

Product Register

A list of partners of Defence members who have their own businesses is included

on our website www.thebuzznews.webs.com. New information is added as

requested, so make sure you check it out regularly. If you would like to include your

business, please email us.

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

20

Telephone directory

Defence Civilian

Local contacts

Counselling services

National Switchboard (ask for

RAAF Base Williamtown)

1300 333 362 Lifeline 13 11 14

RAAF Williamtown Hospital

02 4034 7999 Kids Help Line 1800 551 800

Australian Defence Credit Union

02 4965 0213 Relationships Australia 1300 364 277

Defcredit

02 4034 7628 Men’s Line Australia 1300 789 978

Defence Housing Australia (DHA)

Raymond Terrace

02 4983 5300 Beyondblue info line (support

for depression and anxiety)

1300 22 4636

Defence Community

Organisation (DCO)

02 4034 6973 Domestic Violence Line 1800 656 463

Defence Special Needs Support

Group (DSNSG) - Cheryl Jones

02 4982 8882 Family Drug Support 1300 368 186

Defence Force Welfare

Association

02 4960 3549 SANE Australia (mental health

support)

1800 187 263

National contacts

Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858

Defence Families of Australia

(DFA)

1800 100 509 Health services

Defence Tax Hotline

1800 806 053 Poisons Information 13 11 26

Defence Health

1800 676 465 GP Access (After Hours)

1300 130 147

National support services Health Direct

1800 022 222

All Hours Support Line (mental

health support for ADF members

and families)

1800 628 036 Newcastle Mater Hospital

John Hunter Hospital

02 4921 1211

02 4921 3000

National Welfare Coordination

Centre (24 hour support for

deployed families)

1800 801 026 Maitland Hospital

Tomaree Community Hospital

02 4939 2000

02 4984 0700

Veterans and Veterans Families

Counselling Service (after hours

crisis counselling)

1800 011 046 Parenting services

Karitane Careline (advice on

children 0-5 years)

1800 677 961

Family Information Network for

Defence (info on ADF pay,

conditions and entitlements)

1800 020 031 Australian Breastfeeding

Association Helpline

Tresillian Parents Help Line

(advice on children 0-5 years)

1800 686 268

1800 637 357

Parent Line (advice on

children 0-18 years)

1300 1300 52

Playgroup NSW Inc (find a

playgroup in your area)

1800 171 882

Childcare Access Hotline

(find childcare in your area)

1800 670 305

Wildlife services

RSPCA (Hunter Region) 02 4939 1555

Native Animal Trust Fund

(wildlife rescue)

0418 628 483

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The Buzz – Issue 23 Jan-Mar 2012

21

Fit to Eat

Fruit & Veg Fundraiser

Williamtown

Craft Group

GREAT VALUE HUGE VARIETY SO CONVENIENT

TASTE THE DIFFERENCE

WHEN: Every Wednesday during School Term between 10am and 12noon

WHERE: Order or Collect from the Kittyhawk Club

What you need to do: Order and Pay on Wednesday for delivery the following Wednesday

Call for info Janine 49828190 Jo 49847415 June 49817043

Email: [email protected]

Williamtown Craft Group

Fruit & Veg Fundraiser Order Form 1 = $25 Mixed Box of Seasonal Fruit and Veg

2 = $25 Box Seasonal Fruit Only

3 = $25 Box Seasonal Vegetables Only

Name: ____________________ Date of Order:_________

Phone: ____________________ Date of Delivery:_______ Box Quantity Order Day Delivery Day

1. = $25 Mixed Wednesday Wednesday

2.= $25 Fruit Wednesday Wednesday

3.= $25 Vegies Wednesday Wednesday

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