Monthly Archives: February 2015

Spectators reminded to plan ahead for the Australian Open of Surfing – Manly

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Police are reminding spectators to plan ahead for the Hurley Australian Open of Surfing that begins on Sydney’s Northern Beaches this weekend.

Organisers are expecting significant crowds during the competition, which is due to begin at Manly Beach tomorrow morning (Saturday 7 February 2015).

The nine-day event combines the best of Australia’s surfing, skate, music, fashion and art in a vibrant celebration of culture, innovation and athleticism.

Officers attached to Northern Beaches Local Area Command will launch a high-visibility operation, to ensure the safety of competitors, spectators and the community throughout the competition.

General Duties police will be assisted by officers from Operations Support Group, Bicycle Unit, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Police Transport Command.

Northern Beaches Local Area Commander Superintendent Dave Darcy, said police have been working in conjunction with event staff and local council to ensure a safe and enjoyable event.

“Police are prepared for thousands of people to flock to Manly during the nine-day competition and we’re focused on ensuring a safe and fun event for everyone involved,” Supt Darcy said.

“This family-friendly event is about showcasing the very best that Manly has to offer for both local residents and overseas visitors.

“It has been hosted by Manly a number of times, it’s got a great positive vibe and the police are looking forward to being involved once again.

“I’d encourage everyone to check event details, particularly regarding council-established alcohol-free zones throughout the Manly CBD, including all beaches and Manly Corso,” Supt Darcy said.

Information on alcohol-free zones in the area can be found on the Manly Council website: www.manly.nsw.gov.au

“Given the large crowds expected in the area; we’re urging people to utilise public transport for the event as parking will be very limited.

“If you must drive, be sure to plan ahead for your journey, access special event information on livetraffic.com and be prepared for possible delays,” Supt Darcy said.

Plan your trip to the Australian Open of Surfing at: www.transportnsw.info or call 131 500.

Tips to ensure your safety:

• Plan ahead and check the event website and guides for details

• Leave your car at home and catch public transport

• This is an alcohol-free event so don’t bring alcohol into the precinct

• Don’t bring glass into the area

• Factor in possible delays and be patient

• Plan ahead for all weather conditions and pack appropriate attire including water, hats and sunscreen in case of hot weather

• Leave your valuables at home

• Ensure you have contact details for friends and relatives in case of an emergency

For further event information, visit the official Australian Open of Surfing website at: australianopenofsurfing.com

Rising Stars set to Shine at the Hunter

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The 2015 CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL will now not only host some of the biggest names in the Australian music industry but will also welcome a fresh batch of up and coming stars giving them the unique chance to play the same stage as many of their idols. A fortunate 10 relatively unknown acts are set to play alongside the likes of JOHN BUTLER TRIO, LEE KERNAGHAN and KASEY CHAMBERS having secured a spot in the Top 10 of the CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL ‘Patrons Choice’ competition.

The 2015 CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL is pleased to announce TARA NAYSMITH (Cessnock, NSW), TOMMY CONTOR (Gillieston Heights, NSW), BRYCE SAINTY (Central Coast, NSW), LAUREN WHEATLEY (Newcastle, NSW), BEN RANSOM (Sydney, NSW), THE ROUGH DIAMONDS (Lake Macquarie, NSW), ALY COOK BAND (Nelson, New Zealand), JADE HOLLAND (Townsville, QLD), NEILLY RICH (Sydney, NSW) and ROD DOWSETT (Northern Territory) as the fan voted ‘Patron’s Choice’ artists to have secured a performance spot amongst their peers.

When the 2015 CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL was conceived in mid-2014, its ambition remained not only to support well known established Australian talent but to also give a platform to emerging acts to showcase their own sound. The ‘Patron’s Choice’ competition was introduced at the event’s launch and welcomed over 400 entries from up and coming artists over its initial weeks. This number was whittled down by an invited panel to a Top 25 which would be voted on by the public through a Facebook “Like” campaign.

With 25 acts vying for a spot in the top 10, which provided a confirmed, paid slot on one of the Festival’s main stages, competition on social media was fierce with over 30,000 individual votes cast online.

With the competition now closed and the winners unveiled, the Top 10 now join a massive line-up of artists that includes JOHN BUTLER TRIO, LEE KERNAGHAN, KASEY CHAMBERS, SHANNON NOLL, ASH GRUNWALD, BECCY COLE, MENTAL AS ANYTHING, THE MCCLYMONTS, WENDY MATTHEWS and WE TWO THIEVES just to name a few.

The full playing schedule of artists for each day and performance dates has been unveiled at http://www.campfirefestival.com.au/artist-schedule/

This inaugural CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL now boasts over 18 artists as well as more new and emerging acts, as voted by the public, yet to be announced. HOPE ESTATE winery will play host to the first ever CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL from Friday, 13 March to Sunday, 15 March 2015.

The artists confirmed for the 2015 CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL showcases a topline cast of Australian artists including:

John Butler Trio

Lee Kernaghan / Kasey Chambers

Shannon Noll / Ash Grunwald / Beccy Cole / Mental as Anything

The McClymonts / Wendy Matthews / We Two Thieves

The Wolfe Brothers / The Wolverines / Amber Lawrence / Kevin Bennett and The Flood

The Bob Corbett Band / Chelsea Basham / Greg Champion / Christie Lamb

Tara Naysmith / Tommy Contor / Bryce Sainty / Lauren Wheatley / Ben Ransom

The Rough Diamonds / Aly Cook Band / Jade Holland / Neilly Rich / Rod Dowsett

The CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL is more than just a name – there will be an actual Campfire! There’s also the FunZone which is sure to keep both the young and young-at-heart entertained as well as the Busker’s Pavilion providing yet another entertainment option along with the opportunity to discover fresh, local talent.

HOPE ESTATE’s Camper’s Bar will host songwriter’s sessions, guitar clinics, Artist Q&A forums and jam sessions each day along with late night entertainment for our campers.

Naturally, with a winery and craft brewery on-site there’ll be plenty to drink and even a craft beer experience available for the connoisseurs.

On site camping is available for up to 5,000 people with standard camping and powered sites available, or why not “glamp it up” in the new 5 Star Lakeside Flashcamp. There will be plenty of showers and toilets available throughout each of the camping zones as well as portable toilets throughout the site and the main buildings.

For those who want the ultimate experience, HOPE ESTATE is providing VIP hospitality packages. Choose the indulgent Harvest Package on the top floor of the building or the more casual VIP area – both overlook the main arena so you will see and hear everything from these private areas. Or, perhaps a gourmet hamper for two is more your style so you can just sit, listen and soak up the atmosphere. For full details of each of the packages available, please go to www.campfirefestival.com.au.

CAMPFIRE FESTIVAL

Hope Estate, 2213 Broke Road, Pokolbin

(Opposite Pokolbin Village)

Friday, 13 March 2015 –to- Sunday, 15 March 2015

Man held against will for three hours – Lake Macquarie

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A man has been forced to drive three people around the Lake Macquarie area for three hours after they got into his car.

Police from Lake Macquarie Local Area Command have been told two men got into a Toyota Starlet while it was stopped at the intersection of Quigley Road and The Ridgeway at Bolton Point, about 5pm yesterday (Thursday 5 February 2015).

The driver, a 26-year-old man from Bolton Point, told police he was intimidated into driving the men around the area, picking up a third man in Toronto.

The men then forced the driver to take them to a number of other locations during the three-hour incident, before he was told to drive them to Medlow Street, Cardiff, where they assaulted him and stole his smartphone and cash.

The three men then left the area on foot and the driver reported the incident to police at Toronto.

Police are now looking for three men, who they believe can assist with their investigation.

The first man is described as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance, about 30 years old, having a solid build, 175cm tall, and with a tattoo on his neck. At the time he was wearing a white T-shirt, black shorts and bright green joggers.

The second man is described as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance and about 30 years old; however, this man had a slim build and was about 182cm tall, with short shaved hair and facial stubble. At the time the man was wearing a dark-coloured T-shirt, shorts, a baseball cap and bright, multi-coloured joggers.

The third man is described as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander appearance and aged about 40 to 50. This man had a thin build, about 165cm tall, with short brown hair that was curly at the back. At the time he was wearing a black track suit with white strips down the sleeves, a black baseball cap and sunglasses. He was carrying a grey back pack.

Police are appealing for anyone with information about the incident, or who may know the men involved, to contact Lake Macquarie Detective.

School damaged by fire – Rathmines

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Police are investigating the cause of a fire at a public school in the Lake Macquarie area this morning.

About 12.30am (Friday 6 February), fire crews were called to the school on Secret Corner Road in Rathmines after reports a one of the buildings was well-alight.

When crews arrived they found the hall and canteen ablaze but managed to contain the fire.

The fire has been extinguished and investigators are expected to examine the scene later today.

The cause of the fire has not been established.

Teens charged over car theft and crash – Lake Macquarie

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Police have charged two teenagers over the theft of a car and subsequent crash in the Lake Macquarie area this week.

Between January 31 and February 1, a Nissan Tida sedan was stolen from a property on Rosemount Close in Eleebana.

The theft was reported to officers at Lake Macquarie Local Area Command, who commenced an investigation.

About 11pm yesterday (Tuesday 3 February), the car was used in a fail-to-pay incident at a petrol station on the Pacific Highway at Belmont.

A short time later, the Nissan crashed into another vehicle on the Pacific Highway near Bali Street at Blacksmiths.

The two teenagers in the Nissan attempted to run from the area. A number of witnesses were able to detain one of the males until police arrived. The other was tracked down by officers using a police dog.

The pair, aged 17 and 15, was taken to Charlestown Police Station.

The older male, who was driving the Nissan, returned a breath test reading of 0.085 and was found to be unlicensed. He was charged with car theft and obtain benefit by deception.

He has been granted conditional bail to appear at a children’s court on February 23.

The 15-year-old was charged with a first instance warrant, carry in conveyance and obtain benefit by deception. He was refused bail to appear at a children’s court today.

Teen arrested following attempted armed robbery of taxi – East Albury

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A teenage boy has been arrested and charged following the attempted armed robbery of a taxi driver in Albury.

Around 11.30pm on Monday (2 February 2015), three teens got into a taxi on Eastern Circuit in East Albury.

After driving a short distance down the road, the driver of the taxi – a 26-year-old man – stopped the cab and asked the teens if they had money to pay for the fare.

Two of the teens, who were seated in the rear of the cab, got out of the vehicle, while the teen sitting in the front passenger seat undid his seatbelt and opened the passenger-side door before producing a knife. He threatened the driver with the knife, demanding he hand over his wallet, phone and cash.

The driver immediately pressed down on the car’s accelerator, jolting the vehicle forward and forcing the armed teen to fall out of the car.

The 26-year-old subsequently drove to Albury Police Station and reported the matter to police, who commenced an investigation into the matter.

Around 2.40pm yesterday, police arrested two teenage males on Eastern Circuit, East Albury.

The pair were taken to Albury Police Station and interviewed, before one of them – a 14-year-old – was charged with robbery while armed with an offensive weapon. He was subsequently refused bail and is scheduled to appear in a children’s court today (Wednesday 4 February 2015).

The other boy – a 15-year-old – was released pending further inquiries.

The police investigation into the matter continues and anyone with information of relevance is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.

Snowy Mountains Country Music Festival headline act wins big at the Golden Guitar Awards

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On country music’s night of nights – the Golden Guitar Awards – Australia’s most successful country music group ever, The McClymonts, took home two statues, winning ‘Highest Selling Album of the Year’ and ‘Group of the Year’. Adding to their already extensive list of accolades which includes three ARIA’s for Best Country Album, this year’s awards prove that The McClymonts are going from strength to strength. Next month, music fans will be able to witness the critically acclaimed sisters Brooke, Samantha and Mollie when they take to the stage as part of the 2015 Snowy Mountains Country Music Festival in Thredbo.

“We can’t believe it’s been seven years since we played at Thredbo. It is such a beautiful location not only for a music festival but to visit at any time of the year,” said Mollie. “We’re excited to be sharing the stage with an incredible line-up of artists in Thredbo this March,” she continued.

As Thredbo’s action-packed summer schedule continues to draw outdoor enthusiasts, adrenalin junkies and music lovers to the mountains, the region remains a thriving hub of activity year round. In 2015, The Snowy Mountains Country Music Festival will provide yet another unique opportunity for local and interstate festival-goers to visit the picturesque region and experience some of the nation’s best loved country acts performing at one of the nation’s best loved alpine locations.

On Saturday 21st March, set amidst a stunning natural amphitheatre, Thredbo will play host to renowned country music stars including Adam Brand, Morgan Evans, The Sunny Cowgirls and many more. To ensure revellers get the most out of their weekend away accommodation is available in the village.

Amber Lawrence Sets Sail for the Sixth Consecutive Year on Cruisin Country 2016

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Off the back of incredible success in Tamworth, with featured artists Amber Lawrence, Luke O’Shea, Lyn Bowtell, Kristy Cox and Dean Perrett all taking home Golden Guitars, Australia’s leading music-themed charter company, Choose Your Cruise, has announced the much-anticipated return of their sell-out country music festival at sea.

Australia’s favourite country music singer-songwriter sweetheart and Golden Guitar winner, Amber Lawrence, is over-the-moon to be included in the line-up once-again. “With a whole new ship, itinerary and line-up, joining previous crowd pleasers and some of my own all-time favourite artists, this Cruisin Country 6, is set to be the best ever,” she said.

In a company first, Cruisin Country 6, will set sail from Brisbane on November 13 – returning November 21, 2016, for eight nights of the very best Australian country music has to offer aboard the luxurious Legend of the Seas.

Committed to showcasing Australia’s home-grown talent, Cruisin Country 6 gathers superstars from the Australian country music industry into one almighty ‘music festival at sea’. Passengers will join a who’s who of country music stars including:

ADAM BRAND,
2015 CMAA Golden Guitar Winners: Amber Lawrence [‘Female Artist of the Year’] Luke O’Shea [‘Male Artist of the Year’, ‘Heritage Song of the Year’ & ‘Album of the Year’] , Dean Perrett [‘Bush Ballad of the Year’ & Vocal Collaboration of the Year], Lyn Bowtell [‘Best Alternative Album’]
and Kristy Cox [‘Bluegrass Recording of the Year]
Plus Beccy Cole, Melinda Schneider, Shane Nicholson, Felicity Urquhart, Drew McAlister, Simply Bushed, Travis Collins, Jasmine Rae and many more!

For the first time ever Cruisin Country 6 will set sail from Brisbane in a bid to offer a part in their run-away success story to a wider market. Choose Your Cruisepassengers will enjoy a fresh itinerary including new ports of call in Mare (Loyalty Islands) and Mystery Island (Vanuatu), as well as stopovers in the ever-popular Isle of Pines and Noumea (New Caledonia), quintessential ports for Cruisin Country.

With Cruisin Country 5 (October 9-17, 2015) nearing its fifth consecutive sell-out success with limited cabins still available, Cruisin Country offers both cruise enthusiasts and country music fans alike a truly immersive country music holiday experience, offering the best mix of luxury surrounds, first class dining, relaxation and non-stop entertainment; all while sailing the South Pacific.

In keeping with the inclusive nature of country music, Cruisin Country 6 also offers passengers a chance to sing their hearts out at the open mic sessions; develop their talents at song writing and guitar workshops; even to strut their stuff in the professionally organised dance lessons and events.

The magnificent vessel, Legend of the Seas* is the brand new host for this scintillating cruise. The ship has six outstanding entertainment venues which will host Australia’s best country music talent over the unprecedented eight night cruise.

Cruise holidays continue to capture the interest of the Australian public more than any other nation with an industry rise of over 20% per annum for 11+ years. Current trends predict this year more than one million Australians will choose cruising, many of them opting for bespoke holidays that cater to their personal tastes, such as those created by Australia’s top cruising company,

For more information including how to book your cabin visit: www.chooseyourcruise.com.au

Cyclist dies following fall near Armidale

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A cyclist has died after falling onto the road at Thalgarrah, 35km north-east of Armidale, yesterday morning.

About 8am (Sunday 1 February 2015), a 65-year-old man was cycling along Rockvale Road when he lost control of his bicycle after crossing Balaclava Creek Bridge.

It appears the man fell and hit his head on the roadway and was found unconscious on the road by three witnesses travelling in a vehicle.

The witnesses contacted Ambulance Paramedics and police, who attended the scene.

The man was airlifted by Westpac Rescue Helicopter to Tamworth Hospital but was unable to be revived.

Officers attached to New England Local Area Command and Oxley Local Area Command are investigating the incident for the Coroner. Police are appealing for any witnessess who were travelling on Rockvale Road around this time, and who saw a single cyclist riding near Balaclava Creek, to contact investigating police at Armidale Police Station (02) 6771 0699.

City Recital Hall – TAFELMUSIK: HOUSE OF DREAMS

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23 February, 7pm

1 March, 2pm

Musica Viva presents Tafelmusik: House of Dreams, a stunning multi-media exploration of music, art and drama.

Canada’s exceptional Baroque Orchestra transports you to the world of Bach, Vivaldi, Vermeer and Canaletto with House of Dreams. In this special concert event, Tafelmusik leads you on an imaginative musical journey to five historic European houses. Explore the stories of these houses, where works by Vermeer, Canaletto and Watteau adorned the walls and the great rooms rang to the sounds of the finest composers of the day. Exquisitely detailed projected images of salons and paintings and beautiful music from a leading international period-instrument orchestra combine for an unforgettable event.

With a narrator as your tour guide, House of Dreams brings the Baroque era to life.

“…much more than a concert … an experience that transcends its many components to create a special, all-encompassing experience that makes one forget time and place for two bliss-filled hours.” The Toronto Star

Don’t miss this highly anticipated performance, book now to reserve the best seats!