Friday, December 16, 2011
We Do Things A Little Different Here
Julie Baird talks about Newcastle's new museum. From TEDXNewy 2011.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Dobell, Whitely, Nolan and Boyd Masterpieces On Show Newcastle
NEWCASTLE Art Gallery is hosting Australia’s most
important modern artworks next month will be a ‘‘once-in-a-lifetime
opportunity’’ for art lovers. Rarely seen away from Sydney, a
collection of 20th-century Australian masterpieces will soon adorn the
walls of the Newcastle gallery.
Legendary artists such as William Dobell, Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan and Brett Whiteley are on loan to Newcastle from the permanent collection of the Art Gallery of NSW.
Iconic works by Newcastle-born painter William Dobell are among the paintings selected for the Australian Modern Masterpieces exhibition.
They include Dobell’s 1941 painting Portrait of a Strapper, which the Newcastle gallery owns and which will sit alongside his Archibald Prize-winning portrait of Margaret Olley from 1948.
Entry will be $8 per adult, with children under-12 free.
Legendary artists such as William Dobell, Arthur Boyd, Sidney Nolan and Brett Whiteley are on loan to Newcastle from the permanent collection of the Art Gallery of NSW.
Iconic works by Newcastle-born painter William Dobell are among the paintings selected for the Australian Modern Masterpieces exhibition.
They include Dobell’s 1941 painting Portrait of a Strapper, which the Newcastle gallery owns and which will sit alongside his Archibald Prize-winning portrait of Margaret Olley from 1948.
Entry will be $8 per adult, with children under-12 free.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Newcastle Boys and Girls High Historic Records Donated
The records have been digitised and will help family historians and migrants needing to prove residency.
The registers show each student’s name, address, father’s occupation and their post-school destination.
Among the girls’ school records were daughters of tallowsmen and dredgemasters who went on to either Newcastle Teacher’s College or the old Royal Newcastle Hospital.
Full article
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Nobbys Lighthouse Newy's Latest Attraction
Nobby's Lighthouse lights up as Newcastle's newest attraction
[Wed 12/10/2011 09:56:41]After more than 100 years of restricted public access, renowned historical landmark Nobby's Lighthouse has opened its doors as the newest attraction in Newcastle.
Nobbys Head was the 3rd lighthouse built in NSW
One of the city’s oldest buildings, the lighthouse now invites visitors to access the structure atop Nobbys Headland and take a look into Newcastle’s nautical past while enjoying sweeping views over the city and out to the Pacific Ocean.
Established in 1854, Nobbys Lighthouse was the third lighthouse built in NSW and is included in the City of Newcastle's Coat of Arms. The original 20,000 candle-power light was attended by three keepers, until the light was converted to electric operation in 1935.
Newcastle city views from Nobby's Lighthouse
The lighthouse and its grounds are now accessible to the public free-of-charge, on the first and third Sunday of each month between 10:00am and 4:00pm.
The journey to reach Nobbys Lighthouse is an experience in itself. Located at the end of a long man-made spit at the entrance to beautiful Newcastle Harbour, the lighthouse is accessed by an 800-metre scenic pathway running from the base of the headland, along the breakwater and up to the peak where a spectacular view awaits.
Light refreshments are available at the lighthouse kiosk which operates on open days, or visitors can pack their own picnic to enjoy at the top.
Open days at the Nobbys Lighthouse are managed by L!vesites – an initiative of Newcastle City Council which brings people and businesses in the local community together to deliver creative events and cultural experiences in the city’s public spaces.
The lighthouse will be a key site for upcoming events in Newcastle, including Australia Day and New Year’s Eve activities, one-off art exhibitions and other special experiences. The site is also available for private functions.
For more information on the lighthouse site in Newcastle please visit www.visitnewcastle.com.au
Monday, October 10, 2011
Urban Insider - Cooks Hill NSW
Cooks Hill is an inner city suburb of Newcastle NSW.
Here are some urban shots from the local online hipster magazine
Urban Insider. See full gallery here
Cooks Hill grew from coal mines in the area. Land sales developed from Brooks Street onto Darby Street to create the commercial centre there today. Darby Street was originally known as Lake Macquarie road and was one of the few public access roads through AA Company Coal Mine land.
Cooks Hill grew from coal mines in the area. Land sales developed from Brooks Street onto Darby Street to create the commercial centre there today. Darby Street was originally known as Lake Macquarie road and was one of the few public access roads through AA Company Coal Mine land.
Monday, October 03, 2011
Raymond Terrace On The Williams River
Williams River at Raymond Terrace NSW
Just over the Hexham Bridge, Raymond Terrace is an easy commute to Newcastle, Nelson Bay, Maitland and Hawks Nest. The Newcastle Airport is close by and services are easy to access.
See also Botanical Gardens entry
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Day Trips: Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens
Newcastle is fortunate to have many interesting areas to visit all within an hour of the Newcastle and 3 hours drive from Sydney. The twin hamlets of Tea Gardens, with its river leading to the Great Lakes and Hawks Nest with 26 miles of sandy beach are one such trip that's worth taking. There is also a ferry running across the bay to Nelson Bay.
Here are some views.
Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest
Here are some views.
Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Friday, July 01, 2011
Smart City - Innovative Newcastle NSW
Smarter City - Innovative Newcastle was the theme for the latest Lunaticks Society event held at The Delaney in Darby Street Cooks Hill on Wednesday.
The event was billed to showcase Newcastle City Council's recently released strategic plan to become a Smart, Innovation City to help Newcastle develop a healthy, diverse, creative and resilient economy.
All things considered, sadly, there was little that we saw which addressed this.
It became clear that we need to focus on the city we want to be and face the new environment with hope and ideas, not be harking back to the past and what we've already tried.
Craig Wilson's (@MediaHunter) plan for creatng an innovative city
And we need to do it without expectation of this being driven by council.
But, how do you create a culture of new ideas? How do you attract smart people? How do you turn an Old World City into one the World’s Smartest Cities?
Our Town - Then
Goodbye Steelworks
This old way of being is now gone with these steelworks that in previous years had described the narrative of Newcastle.
This way of life that has gone already.
One day perhaps the coal will go too and even without that happening new industries can blossom in our Town. Smart industries.
New technology.
Bright ideas.
A new economic driver that doesn't rely on digging up what's there and shipping it out without adding value. That idea was old and tired back when this 1979 advertisement first aired. In 2011 it is ridiculous as a proposition for future prosperity.
We need a new economic driver that will see new generations working in great jobs with a future, not crying for a past that is well past it's use-by date.
What would our movie of NEWcastle look like if we made it now?
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Social Media In Newcastle & Hunter Valley
 |
| In 1952 People Paraded in Hunter Street. In 2011 We Get Together Online! |
Social media is in the news a lot lately and if you own a business you might be wondering what all the fuss is about.
While many business owners have moved to set up a business page there is more to social media marketing than just putting up a Facebook page (and no your personal Facebook page is NOT the place for your business).
Businesses need to embrace social media but setting up a Facebook page is not a strategy. Here are some tips to get started.
A question this week on Quora was a good one and one that deserves some attention from us all, in conducting our business activities.
Here’s my response.
“My company is a B2B company and we are trying to come up with a strategy around social media. I find it tough to figure out what to include and what to avoid. Are there any factors I should take in to consideration while devising a strategy?”
I would suggest you start with a clear understanding of the social media environment and a well defined purpose (and expectation) that is realistic and achievable in the first instance.
For those who want to use social media, and those who vehemently don’t want to – they need to understand enough to make an informed choice either way and to deal with the consequences of that choice. Whether one is ‘using social media’ or not they can be the subject of discussion on social media and managing one’s reputation online is just one element of this new world.
Basics
Get these right the first time. Know what kind of Facebook page is the wrong kind to use for business. Use the right kind. Don’t set up a Twitter page then fail to keep updated regularly.
*Remember Your Website!
* Make sure your website is optimized for search – and for the people who
will use it! – Most that I see are very poor – on both counts. (Never
mind they may have cost a lot of money from an expensive web designer).
Never, never let a stranger be in control of your business online. Get informed and get interested.
Not Just What, But How
It is important to understand the etiquette of online interaction and also the ways to leverage time and effort without putting those to whom we are connected offside. (Easy to do!)
Putting up a Facebook or Twitter Page ( and with the correct configuration and naming protocols) all need to be considered and that is just the beginning, the strategy behind this needs to support the objectives and while platforms are free to use there is always a cost in time and resources and budget need to be allocated for this purpose. Expect this and include it in your plan.
Social Media Policy
Some things to consider on creating a social media strategy:
Your social media policy – needs to be fair, realistic and training done with employees so that everyone is clear. Also needs to be in line with employment legistation so that you are not overstepping and writing in clauses that you have no right to demand. Suggest your policy begin with an intention to be open to the opportunities of social media, as well as the potential downside.
Hoary Old Myths
On the matter of Control – some employers think they can dictate all manner of things to employees and restrict their access to social media during work hours and this will keep them in control of their staff members. This is quite a silly assumption. Firstly, because you have no control now, secondly, because such an environment may just guarantee that good candidates won’t want to work for you. Lastly – they can access anything they wish to via their smartphones and a combative attitude is not going to deliver a harmonious outcome that leverages the best available opportunities that new media can deliver.
Your Social Media Strategy:
Engagement
People follow people so it is important to remember that there needs to be engagement and if multiple people contributing to the social media for the company, there is merit in these being tagged to the individual who is posting at any time. Be interesting. Be interested.
Not Just For Christmas
There is often a thought that a social media strategy is a one-off, trial kind of activity that we do. It is not set and forget and it not even a funky thing to do any more. It is become expected. If you are not visible online, for an increasing many, you just don’t exist. So get accustomed to this being a new marketplace. Devise a plan that brings your existing customers along with you and if you are really smart – introduce them to those who can help you help them develop their own online presence. This is where the magic is, and this is where most fail to connect the dots.
Here’s my response.
“My company is a B2B company and we are trying to come up with a strategy around social media. I find it tough to figure out what to include and what to avoid. Are there any factors I should take in to consideration while devising a strategy?”
I would suggest you start with a clear understanding of the social media environment and a well defined purpose (and expectation) that is realistic and achievable in the first instance.
For those who want to use social media, and those who vehemently don’t want to – they need to understand enough to make an informed choice either way and to deal with the consequences of that choice. Whether one is ‘using social media’ or not they can be the subject of discussion on social media and managing one’s reputation online is just one element of this new world.
Basics
Get these right the first time. Know what kind of Facebook page is the wrong kind to use for business. Use the right kind. Don’t set up a Twitter page then fail to keep updated regularly.
*Remember Your Website!
* Make sure your website is optimized for search – and for the people who
will use it! – Most that I see are very poor – on both counts. (Never
mind they may have cost a lot of money from an expensive web designer).
Never, never let a stranger be in control of your business online. Get informed and get interested.
Not Just What, But How
It is important to understand the etiquette of online interaction and also the ways to leverage time and effort without putting those to whom we are connected offside. (Easy to do!)
Putting up a Facebook or Twitter Page ( and with the correct configuration and naming protocols) all need to be considered and that is just the beginning, the strategy behind this needs to support the objectives and while platforms are free to use there is always a cost in time and resources and budget need to be allocated for this purpose. Expect this and include it in your plan.
Social Media Policy
Some things to consider on creating a social media strategy:
Your social media policy – needs to be fair, realistic and training done with employees so that everyone is clear. Also needs to be in line with employment legistation so that you are not overstepping and writing in clauses that you have no right to demand. Suggest your policy begin with an intention to be open to the opportunities of social media, as well as the potential downside.
Hoary Old Myths
On the matter of Control – some employers think they can dictate all manner of things to employees and restrict their access to social media during work hours and this will keep them in control of their staff members. This is quite a silly assumption. Firstly, because you have no control now, secondly, because such an environment may just guarantee that good candidates won’t want to work for you. Lastly – they can access anything they wish to via their smartphones and a combative attitude is not going to deliver a harmonious outcome that leverages the best available opportunities that new media can deliver.
Your Social Media Strategy:
- A social media policy
- A Clearly articulated purpose and vision
- Select appropriate platforms
- Allocate a budget
- Who will manage it?
- Time and resources that need to be allocated
- Which KPIs you are going to measure
- How you will measure your results
- How you will manage (an enhance) your reputation online
- How you will integrate your social media with your conventional marketing
- How thoroughly your social media activities should permeate throughout the operations of the business (Which department will handle this? Will all departments be involved?)
- Ways you can adapt social media to help you improve how customers interact with the business
- Ways that you can use social media to improve communications within the business and strengthen the team
- Managing and monitoring the plan
- Reporting – how often in what way
- Integrating platforms to allow transfer of content seamlessly, but in a regulated way (not spamming)
- Understanding that social media is not a broadcast medium! It can’t be all just about YOU!
- Design for the type and quality of the content to be delivered by social media
- Who will create the content?
- What amount of content should be (can be) generated and by what frequency?
- Modes of content that can be made available – articles, blogs, ebooks, video, podcasts etc
- Integration with website
Engagement
People follow people so it is important to remember that there needs to be engagement and if multiple people contributing to the social media for the company, there is merit in these being tagged to the individual who is posting at any time. Be interesting. Be interested.
Not Just For Christmas
There is often a thought that a social media strategy is a one-off, trial kind of activity that we do. It is not set and forget and it not even a funky thing to do any more. It is become expected. If you are not visible online, for an increasing many, you just don’t exist. So get accustomed to this being a new marketplace. Devise a plan that brings your existing customers along with you and if you are really smart – introduce them to those who can help you help them develop their own online presence. This is where the magic is, and this is where most fail to connect the dots.
If you would like help to learn more about using social media for your business contact me now to arrange a chat. Your social media approach should add to and complement your business overall, not be something separate and disconnected.
More on Newcastle Yesteryear
Lindy Asimus
Business Coach
Mobile: 0403 365855
lindyasimus@gmail.com
www.lindyasimus.com
www.designbusinessengineering.com
Would A CUSTOMIZED Marketing Roadmap Help You Guide Your Business On The Path To Success? ABSOLUTELY!
Actionbites Blog Life Coaching Is...
Wednesday, June 08, 2011
Newcastle Beach Webcams
See latest feed from the webcam
Coastal Watch - Now this is a great looking winter!
Satellite beach cams
 |
| East Coast Beaches see link for full article |
Coastal Watch - Now this is a great looking winter!
Satellite beach cams
Monday, June 06, 2011
Newcastle On Facebook
Here are some groups you might like to check out on Facebook that focus on Newcastle topics.
Real Estate Newcastle
I Love Life In Newcastle
Sell A Business In The Hunter
Lindy Asimus Business Coaching
ABC Newcastle
Newcastle Business Club
The Lunaticks Society of Newcastle
Thursday, June 02, 2011
See Change - Newcastle NSW Branding
Novacastrians know that Newcastle has seen change after change throughout our history. Communicating the real strengths of the city (and despite what those in the inner city might think, for any of us in the Hunter Valley, and Lake Macquarie and surrounds, "Newcastle" - to anyone who doesn't live here, is all of this area combined.). The resources, the opportunities, the culture and the things that we hold as values have an unmistakable stamp upon them of what Newy is all about.
So what's Newcastle mean to you?
What defines that special difference that makes a difference?
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Art Exhibition Cooks Hill Galleries - Bella Italia!
See artist Rick Everingham's - Bella Italia - On Exhibition At Cooks Hill Galleries now!
01 April - 18 April 2011 - Exhbition may be extended for an extra week - check Cooks Hill Gallery
About This Exhibition
Artist:
"My fascination with Italy is still as strong as ever. These paintings range from one of my favourite places in the north, Venice, down through the Cinque Terre, to areas around Tuscany, and south to Capri and Sicily, I hope you enjoy them."
Director's Comment
The consummate professional artist, Rick has developed an Italian lifestyle after frequent trips overseas led to a sea-change of residence to Tuscany, Italy. As a consistent exhibitor in our galleries we have understood the fascination of patina and soft reflective colours revealed as they mellow. An enriched base of colour suppressed by the European light produces a mottled surface on walls, courtyards, porticos and facades of Italian architecture. Everingham's paintings capture a moment of observation, a time, lifestyle or recreation.
There is a suggestion of mood or setting that is most pleasing to the eye, this feeling is further reinforced if the viewer has travelled or understands the seduction of Italy and its people.
Biography
Born in Sydney, Australia, in 1945, and until recently living in Brisbane, Rick Everingham has progressively established himself as a most successful and respected artists.
Rick has worked continuously as a painter since holding his first one man show in 1970, holding numerous exhibitions in Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne, and gaining an ever-increasing following along the way. International shows have been held in Los Angeles, Tokyo, and San Gimignano in Italy.
Follow Cooks Hill Galleries on Facebook
01 April - 18 April 2011
Bella Italia01 April - 18 April 2011 - Exhbition may be extended for an extra week - check Cooks Hill Gallery
About This Exhibition
Artist:
"My fascination with Italy is still as strong as ever. These paintings range from one of my favourite places in the north, Venice, down through the Cinque Terre, to areas around Tuscany, and south to Capri and Sicily, I hope you enjoy them."
Director's Comment
The consummate professional artist, Rick has developed an Italian lifestyle after frequent trips overseas led to a sea-change of residence to Tuscany, Italy. As a consistent exhibitor in our galleries we have understood the fascination of patina and soft reflective colours revealed as they mellow. An enriched base of colour suppressed by the European light produces a mottled surface on walls, courtyards, porticos and facades of Italian architecture. Everingham's paintings capture a moment of observation, a time, lifestyle or recreation.
There is a suggestion of mood or setting that is most pleasing to the eye, this feeling is further reinforced if the viewer has travelled or understands the seduction of Italy and its people.
Biography
Born in Sydney, Australia, in 1945, and until recently living in Brisbane, Rick Everingham has progressively established himself as a most successful and respected artists.
Rick has worked continuously as a painter since holding his first one man show in 1970, holding numerous exhibitions in Brisbane, Newcastle, Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne, and gaining an ever-increasing following along the way. International shows have been held in Los Angeles, Tokyo, and San Gimignano in Italy.
Follow Cooks Hill Galleries on Facebook
Cooks Hill Galleries 67 Bull St, Cooks Hill Newcastle Australia 2300 T: +61 (02) 49263899
Hours:
fri-sat-mon 11-6pm
sun 2-6pm or by appointment
Sunday, March 13, 2011
World Naked Bike Ride in Newcastle broken up by police
Great to see our police cracking down on crime wherever it happens. ;-)
The group of about 15 bike riders, some clothed and and others naked and decorated in body paint promoting their protest message rode along the Honeysuckle harbor side cycle way, down Hunter St (the main street of the city) and through on o...f the busy the restaurant and cafe precinct of Darby St. The ride was cheered and applauded by members of the public.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Friday, January 28, 2011
Newcastle Morning Photo
Newcastle Morning Photos are images taken by everyday Novocastrians of everyday Newcastle. Individually they represent one person’s unique Newcastle moment
Check out The Novocastrian Files for more background and how to add your photos to this growing collection.
Check out The Novocastrian Files for more background and how to add your photos to this growing collection.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)