Category: Hunter Valley

homes ownership near Sydney

Home Ownership Near Sydney is Still Possible On The Central Coast: Or Is It?

Satellite cities like those on the NSW Central Coast provide opportunities for those wishing to enter the property market. The ever increasing house prices in Sydney remain a lure and initial obstacle for the materialistic essence of the great Australian dream of home ownership. Home ownership near Sydney is still possible on the Central Coast: Or is it? Prices are rising according to the latest figures on this front. Commuting from places like Avoca Beach, Bateau Bay, Brooklyn, Budgewoi, Cams Wharf, Canton Beach, Erina, Gosford, and Lake Macquarie to work in Sydney is a way of life for many first time property investors.

Big Government Investment Pumping into the Central Coast

The NSW State Government has invested more than $300 million in road upgrades recently. Plus, expansion of hospitals in Gosford and Wyong to the tune of half a billion dollars is all about preparing the infrastructure for these population growth regions. The NSW Department of Planning & Infrastructure’s survey has the Central Coast population increasing by 386, 900 by 2031. 65% of this growth is coming from outside of the region. Therefore, a Lake Macquarie and Central Coast home ownership opportunity makes perfect sense in 2021 and beyond. This is the new paradigm for those wishing to access the Mecca of Sydney for employment and business opportunities.

Rapidly Growing Local Economy

In addition, the Central Coast region of NSW has a rapidly growing local economy worth some $11.7 billion. This is not just the usual mainstay of tourism either, with IT and telecommunications sectors housing their operations in this neck of the woods. Gosford is a major regional city in NSW and home to many state government agencies. The rising property market is reflective of this increasingly buoyant economic situation in an area, which used to be a backwater with high youth unemployment.

The future looks bright on the Central Coast for home buyers wishing to be within cooee of Sydney. House prices on the Central Coast for the 12 months to March 2016 grew by 13.6% in comparison to Sydney’s 12%. The general migration, inspired by Covid in the capital cities, is seeing people move enmasse to regional areas within Australia. The get out of Sydney movement will only continue in 2021 and beyond during this pandemic. Those wishing to escape lockdowns will make tracks for places like Woy Woy, Copacabana, Avoca, and Killcare Heights. Home ownership near Sydney is still possible on the Central Coast.

garden outdoor lighting installation electricians hunter valley sydney

Best Electricians in the Hunter Valley

Seeking the best electricians in the Hunter Valley? If you’re looking for a switchboard upgrade, garden lighting installation, ceiling fan installation, security lighting installation, intercom installation, or an electrician in an emergency, try any one of these …

Hunter Valley Electrics

As a small Newcastle electrical business, HVE’s goal is to build trusted long term relationships by providing quality service and products, experienced expert advice, and the best electrical solutions.

They  pride themselves on being at the forefront of energy creation, energy management and energy usage across residential, commercial and rural markets for over 40 years.

Whether your project is a simple one or a complex, technically challenging one, they’d love to show you their problem-solving culture, clear values, and strong customer service ethic.

From Merewether to Maitland, and Wangi Wangi to Weston, Hunter Valley Electrics are wherever you want them to be.

AirTasker

One of the newer ways to connect with a Hunter Valley electrician is to click the high-ranking link on Airtasker.

There you can find customer testimonials which help guide you in your decisions by saying things such as:

“Carl is both friendly and professional. The work was completed efficiently and he was very helpful in explaining exactly what he was doing and demonstrate …”

“Will was prompt, polite and fixed my boat navigation lights in 5mins. Definitely knows his stuff and I would highly recommend Will to anyone that need…”

“Luke did the job well. Just arrived late without communicating what was hapenning. Is polite and I’m happy with the result.”

“Very satisfied . Carl is highly professional, very efficient . His quote was very reasonable. And he finished job on time .Tx so much Carl ! Highly recommended :)”

“Came and done the job same day without any fuss Highly recommended!!!!”

Finding the best electrician in the Hunter Valley is important because it’s a little too far for Sydney electricians to travel so if you can’t have the best in the nearby Big Smoke, then once you’ve found the best in the Hunter you’ll be keen to stick with them for life – which means until death.

Lambs Electrical Hunter Valley

Eddie from Lamb’s Electrical Hunter Valley is your local Electrician and Electrical contractor services the Hunter Valley, Maitland and surroundings areas – including :

Singleton,
Branxton,
Greta,
Cessnock,
Kurri Kurri,
Maitland,
Bolwarra,
Paterson,
Vacy,
Wallalong,
Tenambit,
Chisholm,
Ashtonfield
and all surrounding areas.

Giant Electrical

Giant Electrical provide overhead and underground electrical infrastructure services including: construction, line installation, network connections, upgrades, relocations, maintenance, removal and repairs, high & low voltage extensions to rural properties.

As specialist level 1 and level 2 electricians, their clients include: government bodies, energy authorities, Tier 1 electrical & civil contracting companies, property developers, building and construction companies, and private residents.

They take pride in delivering small to medium sized projects for clients and are fully Accredited Service Providers of Level 1 (ASP 1) and Level 2 (ASP 2) contestable work.

For your next level 1 or level 2 electrical project in Newcastle, Lake Macquarie or the Hunter Valley, consider Giant Electrical the big player for big electrical projects.

 

Hunter Valley Orthodontists: Dental Tourism The First Class Way

Australian citizens! Your dental rights have been stolen away from you. You can no longer travel to Thailand or the Philippines to get your lifelong crooked teeth straightened and veneered and fixed for your sunset years. We know you want to!

So time for a solution … budget-priced dental tourism into the Hunter Valley. Sydney and Melbourne people – we’re not advocating you skip quarantine or your cities’ wretched lockdowns – but … if and when it’s legally possible, come to the Hunter Valley and get your life straightened out … well the furniture in your mouth anyway.

Hunter Valley Orthodontists: Dental Tourism The First Class Way

Yes this is a real thing! Here are some dentists and orthodontists who would love to see you:

Central Coast Orthodontists are convenient for Hunter Valley residents and tourists alike. Be sure to book in with them early so they know you’re coming. These aren’t the people you turn to on a last-minute whim. Plan it out and enjoy your trip.

Hunter Family Dental’s services cover: – General Dentistry – Preventative Dentistry – Gum Disease/Periodontal Treatment – Children’s Dentistry … that’s right, take your spoiled rich Mosman kids there and get them fixed up while you sample the very best vineyard creations, hire a hot air balloon, dine in the finest Hunter Valley restaurants and cafes, and buy yourself a big wide plot of lush green land for your impending retirement.

Being a proudly Australian region, if there’s a buck or two in it, of course the Hunter Valley is working on getting Smilestyler clear aligners better known than Invisalign – this is a challenge every parochial Aussie oi oi oi dentist and orthodontist should be thinking about. And the excellent people at Pacific Smiles Dental have embraced this challenge, offering both Invisalign and Smilestyler – the dentists of the future? Definitely.

If you’re seeking Myobrace you’ll have to look further north than the Hunter Valley, or maybe a bit south into the most progressive Sydney dentists but if you’re simply needing emergency dentistry, or maybe wisdom tooth removal, then The Happy Tooth in Cessnock is a positive option. Why are their teeth happy? Because they’ll try to save them if they can.

Places to stay in the Hunter Valley? Well of course that’s what we’re all about! Your really should try out Spicers Luxury Retreat for the experience of a lifetime.

The Hunter Valley is the perfect place to indulge your senses with wine and cheese tastings, hot air ballooning, music, markets, trying out a festival or two or skydiving amongst the vines.

Spicers Vineyards Estate is a luxurious Hunter Valley retreat where guests can come to revitalise and rejuvenate while enjoying all that the region has to offer. Awarded as one of Australia’s best romantic getaways, it has 12 luxury suites, a private vineyard, Spa Anise day spa and Restaurant Botanica. Perfect for a romantic weekend or group getaway. Located 190km from Sydney Airport and 80km from Newcastle Airport, Spicers Vineyards Estate is only 9 mins from Tyrrell’s Wines and 15 mins from De Bortoli Wines, two of the first wineries in Australia.

Another elegant Hunter Valley retreat is Spicers Guesthouse. The Guesthouse has been an iconic destination within the Hunter Valley for 35 years and it exhibits modern elegance while still maintaining its old world charm. Spicers Guesthouse boasts 49 guest rooms on over 40 acres of grounds overlooking the surrounding mountain ranges and neighbouring vineyards and the stylish éRemo Restaurant.

And coming to the Hunter Valley in mid-2022 is Spicers Tower Estate. This all-inclusive luxury retreat will reimagine a Valley favourite with an $8m renovation.

Chiropractors in the Hunter Valley

Chiropractors in the Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley is considered as the oldest wine region in the country. If you want to experience phenomenal wine and gastronomical food, Hunter Valley is just a two hour-drive from the NSW capital. Aside from indulging fantastic wine and gourmet dishes, Hunter Valley is also a refuge for relaxing spa retreats and zesty concerts in the vineyards. After a tiring day of visiting vineyards and wandering around, one might feel muscle aches and joint pains. When this happens, here is a list of some of the osteopaths and chiropractors in the Hunter Valley.

Chiropractors in the Hunter Valley

Osteopaths and chiropractors in the Hunter Valley are also just as good as those in the city, like Sydney chiropractor Hooman Zahedi. If and when you experience headaches, migraines and shoulder pain, among other things, you should visit the following osteopaths and chiropractors in the Hunter Valley.

  • Hunter Osteopathy

http://www.hunterosteopathy.com.au/
11 Bourke Street, Maitland, NSW 2320
Ph (02) 4934.1420

Hunter Osteopathy has been providing relief to aching joints and muscle pain in the Hunter Valley for over two decades. Right now, their specialised services are available in their clinics at Maitland and Singleton. Hunter Osteopathy gives a personalised approach to your healthcare needs, which is focused on making you feel better and in improving your health and well-being.

Since each person’s osteopathic needs are unique, Hunter Osteopathy’s treatments and services are specifically tailored to their customers. By using an array of osteopathic techniques, such as soft tissue massage and joint manipulation, Hunter Osteopathy guarantees that your musculoskeletal problems will be gone in no time.

  • Choice Chiropractic

http://www.choicechiropractic.com.au/
148 Wollombi Road, Cessnock, NSW 2325
Ph (02) 4990.8899

Choice Chiropractic is one of the best chiropractors in the Hunter Valley. Their clinics at Edgeworth and Cessnock are fully-equipped with modern equipment, spacious treatment rooms, an x-ray and diagnostics room, and toilet facilities for everyone, including for the disabled.

Choice Chiropractic believes that we should not bear life’s toils. In fact, we have a right to get the most of our life. Through their services, which include chiropractic care, corrective exercises, massage therapy, and nutritional and lifestyle advices, everyone can feel at ease and relaxed in facing their day. Aside from providing health and wellness solutions, Choice Chiropractic comprehends how your well-being is hinged on your spine and nervous system. As a result, customers can look forward to a pain-free lifestyle brought by the experts in chiropractic care.

  • Hunter Valley Chiropractic

http://www.huntervalleychiropractic.com.au/
1 Westcott Street, Cessnock, NSW 2325
Ph (02) 4990.6622

Hunter Valley Chiropractic is dedicated in delivering only the best chiropractic care for everyone. Their approach to your needs is based on the idea that our mobility and functionality is dependent on our structure. If spinal misalignments are present, these can seriously affect our health and lifestyle.

Hunter Valley Chiropractic offers products that will help lessen our chances of having joint pains, muscle aches and spinal problems. Examples are pillows, sports tape, therabands and exercise balls. They also provide massage therapy, which can magnify our body’s healing abilities. In addition, their massage services will eliminate the toxins from your body while relaxing your muscles and relieving the pain.

Private Hunter Valley Tours

Scott Ricketts is a professional Sydney tour guide and owner of Your Sydney Guide. He is passionate about giving visitors to Sydney and those resident there the adventure of finding hidden secrets in the New South Wales region. He has had a passion for travelling as long as he can remember and his adventures has seen him journey through the UK, Europe, North America, The Pacific and many parts of Asia, including guiding several snow tours into the deep powder of Hokkaido, Japan.

He also loves exploring my own backyard and believes there is nothing better than the delights of The Hunter Region, commonly called The Hunter Valley. It is one of the largest river valleys on the NSW coast and located 120km north of Sydney. This close proximity to the Sydney CBD makes it one of the easier day trips from Sydney that Your Sydney Guide offer.  A short drive time and allows a full day of relaxing amongst the delights of the region.

Sydney Tour Guide

View of Hunter Valley vineyards, NSW, Australia

Scott takes minivan tours to the region and is motivated to personally sculpt the day to suit the group. The small party tours allow the revealing of Sydney’s regions to his guests in a friendly, relaxed, attentive style that is matched by their interests.

Scott is both an adventure guide and IATG accredited Sydney Tour Guide. He launched my own boutique tour business to deliver a fresh alternative to Sydney visitors. Your Sydney Guide offers a tailor made tour of the Hunter Valley that are fully personalised to guest requirements. Tours are tailored to be as adventurous or as relaxed as they like with a pace and itinerary to suit.

Guests can log their ideas and requests for their trip to ‘The Hunter’ during the booking process and itineraries are confirmed via email to ensure that the perfect tour is arranged. Guests enjoy that they are flexible enough to include their special winery or iconic location in what will be for many their one time visit to the region.

For more information on Your Sydney Guide and the Hunter Valley Tours offered, visit the website here: http://www.yoursydneyguide.com.au

 

If you are looking for a travel agent to help you with planning a trip to visit the Hunter Valley or other holiday destinations in the New South Wales region, visit www.Going.Expert who list consultants who have been to the Yarra Valley and give you great first hand insights into the the region and recommended things to do.

 

Horses Of The Hunter

Horses-Of-The-HunterThe Upper Hunter Valley is the Horse Capital of Australia. It is home to Australia’s multi-billion dollar thoroughbred industry. The region has 200 year experience in equine development. The thoroughbred breeding region is also internationally acclaimed as one of the three international centres of thoroughbred breeding excellence. Upper Hunter is ranked number two to Kentucky, USA in based on the concentration of thoroughbred stud properties and the quality and number of bloodlines. It is the largest domestic producer, supplier and exporter of premier quality thoroughbreds. The horses of the Hunter Valley  produces a wide range of equine breeds like heavy draught horses, horses for carriage work, endurance and other sports such as racing, polo and polocrosse, dressage and recreational use.

Scone, Upper Hunter promotes itself as the “the Horse Capital of Australia. Scone is home to more than 150 thoroughbred stud breeding business producing millions of dollars’ worth of foals every year. The headquarters of Australian Stock Horse Society, the largest individual breed association in NSW is in Scone. It is also the largest equine recreational and pleasure horse association in the country. Scone Polo Club, one of the largest clubs in Australia dates back to 1891. Scone ‘Horse Sports for Schools’ is one of the largest interschool competitions in the country.

The Hunter Valley’s geography and moderate climate is ideal for producing premium quality horses. The horses of the Hunter Valley are renowned for their strengths, toughness, resilience, endurance and versatility. Most of them are valued for stock work on farms and for competitive sports performance on polocrosse and camp drafting. Hunter Valley horses make up around half of all thoroughbred horses born in Australia. They are the largest source of thoroughbred exports in the world. 80-90% of all Australian thoroughbred exports are sired from Hunter Valley. The regions premier bloodlines dominate the export market.

Horse racing is part of Australia’s history and heritage. It is one of the oldest sports in the country. The history of horse racing dates back in 1810 when the first official thoroughbred race was held in Hyde Park, Sydney. Cessnock Racecourse in Hunter Valley holds 13 race meetings annually including Anzac Day, Tooheys New Cessnock Cup. Gambling on horse races becomes a popular pastime. Horse racing gambling evolved over the years. Today, punters place their bets online with different bookmakers who offer free bets to entice people to bet on their website.

Horse breeding, training and racing is part of the region’s heritage and history. The Hunter Valley thoroughbred breeding spans 150 years. Widden Stud is one of the oldest family owned studs in the world breeding commercial thoroughbreds and champion racehorses.   It breeds around half of all thoroughbred horses born in Australia. It is also internationally recognised as a major source of international Group 1 winners – the equine equivalent to Olympic Gold medal winners. Stallions and broodmares raised in the region are among the finest in the world this include Pharlap, Makybe Diva, Kingston Town and Tulloch. International operators such as Coolmore, Darley and Emirates Park supports stallion farms in the Hunter Valley such as Arrowfield, Widden, Newgate Farm, Vinery Stud, Turangga Farm, Yarraman Park, and Kitchwin Hills.

If you want to know about the horses of the Hunter Valley, the stud tours will take you on a unique journey and discovery. Tours can be booked through commercial operators such as the Hunter Thoroughbred Breeders Association or Upper Hunter Tours. Tours are by appointment only on HTBA, you need to be booked 5 days in advance. Call HTBA for package deals and group tours.

 

12 Most Romantic Dating Options in the Hunter Valley

Romantic-Dating-Options-in-the-Hunter-ValleyLooking for some romantic ways to spend time with your special someone? The Hunter Valley a part of the premier wine-growing region in New South Wales, offers a taste of good life with many attractions and things to make your stay memorable. We’ve come up with 12 most romantic dating options in the Hunter Valley.

1. Take a Wine Tasting Tour
Wine tasting tour is a not to be missed activity in the region. Wander through vineyards together on a wine-tasting tour and experience how wine is actually made from the grapevine to the bottle. The Hunter Valley vineyards are equipped with picnic areas, hiking trails and even pools this is an all-day destination.

2. Go Horseback Riding
No matter what the season is, you can take the reins and have a get-together on the horseback. Hunter Valley offers a selection of rides for both beginners and experienced riders. Find the nearest stables and rent horses, take laps around the area before trotting out into nature. Gallop together and enjoy the sceneries.

3. Go to the Spa
If you feel the need for a total unwind, visit the spa at Hunter Valley to relax, rejuvenate and recuperate. Relax your body and ask for side-by-side body treatments or massage. To make the most of the day, look for a spa with complimentary amenities like mineral pool and dry sauna. Spa treatment would perfectly enhance your romantic getaway.

4. Play Golf
Playing golf is great fun; the Hunter Valley has a selection of championship golf courses to choose from. Ask your partner about his putting techniques; add your strokes for each hole and the loser buy the drink.

5. Stroll through the Park
Keep your date simple with a stroll through the park. Buy your favourite ice cream and get to know each other while you walk. Bask in the lavish array of colour from variety of plants and statuary. The Hunter Valley offers stunning wilderness to stroll, hike, bike and camp for longer escapes.

6. Take a Brewery Tour
Hunter Valley is not only famous for its quality wines but for its beer as well. Talk to the Brewers or sit back in a relaxing beer garden whilst enjoying a tasty snack. You’ll learn how beer is made and get a token of free beer for all your efforts.

Have you met your special someone online? Online dating has lost much of its stigma since match.com launched on April 21, 1995. Now majority of people say online dating is a good way to connect to more single people. A lot of people know someone who uses online dating like RSVP to find romantic dates. There are different dating sites for different people. Spiritual people find their soulmate or twinflame in spiritual dating sites like SpiritualSingles and eHarmony. People who want quick fun and hook-up find mates in AdultFriendFinder and Hookupz. However you meet your mate, there are surely different activities in the Hunter Valley to make your date special.

7. Be a little Cheesy
Wine and cheese? The Hunter Valley Cheese Factory is the perfect stopover to break up a day of wine tasting tour. Watch cheese makers in action and taste handmade preservative free cheeses. Buy some cheese and pick up a hamper to accompany a new bottle of wine and set up a picnic somewhere. The Smelly Cheese Shop is another great cheese specialist to drop by on your trip.

8. Plan a Picnic
There’s nothing quite delightful as a picnic at the Hunter Valley when the weather is fantastic. Vineyards have lovely grassy spots and trees that surround the area where you can bring your hamper and picnic blanket. Beautiful scenic spots have romantic ambience where you can spend your picnic.

9. Take Scenic Walks
There is no shortage of walking track in the Hunter Valley. National Parks takes hikers through pristine wilderness, including rainforest and outstanding sceneries. Bring your camera and binoculars; there are plenty of opportunities for photography or birdwatching along the way.

10. Go up in a hot air balloon
Be amazed by the romance of floating over the gorgeous Hunter Valley region. A hot air balloon ride will lead you to a spectacular view of the valley. Sunrise or sunset is the best time to witness the wine regions of Pokolbin, Lovedale, Rothbury or Broke in an unforgettable setting.

11. Romantic Dinner
The Hunter Valley has never been a better place for a romantic dinner from casual tapas to artisan cheeses and full degustation fine dining. There is a flourishing restaurant scene at Hunter Valley that is exciting locals and visitors alike.

12. Document your time together
Go to a wine tasting tour, go horseback riding, plan a picnic or stroll on the park – be sure to take plenty of fun and silly Instagram pictures. Document your time together and create awesome memories. Looking at the photos of you and your special someone will make you even more connected.

osteopath sydney osteopaths hunter valley newcastle

Osteopaths in the Hunter Valley

Osteopathy is an alternative form of treatment that is often used to treat several physical ailments and conditions an individual is suffering. This ranges from general conditions which include neck pains, headaches, knee pains, joint paint, stiffness and the likes. Common sports injuries may also be treated with osteopathy such as a tennis elbow or a repetitive strain injury.

Osteopathy’s approach to healing is considered to be safe as pregnant women and even children are able to get the full benefits of their treatment. It is considered to be a non-invasive and drug-free form of treatment. A huge number of individuals are able to save a considerable amount of resources in the process with the huge convenience that they bring into the table. It’s most often the case that your typical local osteopath is now considered a health professional. In addition, several clinics have provided their services to the community. Here is a list of Osteopaths in the Hunter Valley:

  1. Back to Balance

482 Glebe Road

Adamstown NSW 2289

http://backtobalancehealthcentre.com.au/

You will find a body and mind clinic at Back to Balance that offers osteopathy treatment and psychology aid to their clients with its EMDR Therapy.

2. ATUNE Health Centres

276 Macquarie Road

Warners Bay NSW 2282

http://www.atune.com.au/

Newcastle’s leading integrated health care centre, ATUNE Health Centres provides a variety of treatment which their clients can choose from. This includes Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Naturopathy, Psychology and the likes.

  1. Newcastle Osteopathy

3/228 Union Street

Newcastle NSW 2291

http://www.newcastleosteopathy.com.au/

People of all ages are welcome at Newcastle Osteopathy with its caring and professional environment that allows treatment for a wide range of conditions.

4. Beech Health PTY Ltd.

3/6 Alma Road

New Lambton NSW 2305

http://www.beechhealth.com.au/

Beech Health gets on with the point as they provide osteopathy treatment to their patients whenever they need it the most. Their practitioners also have the knowledge and expertise to be able to perform the treatment well along with their requirements.

  1. Nelson C.R

80 Victoria Road

Woy Woy NSW 2256

http://www.nelsonschiropractic.com.au/

Nelson’s Chiropractic & Osteopathic Centre brings to the table their huge amount of experience in the field of osteopathy. Dr. Chris Nelson’s 44 years of experience in the Paramedical field assures patients that they are indeed being treated by a professional.

  1. Osteopathic Clinic

9/478 The Esplanade

Warners Bay NSW 2282

http://www.osteopathicclinic.com.au/

Find a warm and relaxing atmosphere to accompany your treatment found at Osteopathic Clinic. Enjoy their friendly and welcoming staff as they guide you before, during or even after your treatment.

  1. Raymond Terrace Osteopaths

6 King Street

Raymond Terrace NSW 2324

https://sites.google.com/site/raymondterraceosteopaths/

Learn the cause of your pain as you pursue a simple yet effective alternative form of treatment. Raymond Terrace Osteopaths is able to provide their clients with the right amount of answers with regards to their general issues and concerns about their health.

  1. Gerry Rosanove

57 Canton Beach Road

Toukley NSW 2263

http://osteochiroyoga.com.au/

Gerry Rosanove not only performs osteopathy but also a variety of techniques which their clients can greatly benefit from as he assists them in every step of the way.

  1. Charlestown Chiropractic & Osteopathy

262 Charlestown Road

Charlestown NSW 2290

http://chiroandosteo.com.au/

Charlestown Chiropractic & Osteopathy has been in industry for a quite some time with its 30 years of providing high standards of care to their clients.

10. Central Coast Osteopath

402 Mann Street

North Gosford NSW 2250

http://www.centralcoastosteopath.com.au/

Another osteopath clinic with a lengthy amount of experience can be found at Central Coast Osteopath. Shane Caulfield the main practitioner of osteopathy has been practicing this for 20 years. As a result, patients feel much more reassured as they have the backings of a professional.

Mobile-phone-radiation-effects-on-the-environment

Mobile phone radiation effects on the environment

 

Mobile phone is a necessity in these technological times, but do we stop for a while and ask about their environmental impact? Mobile phones emit a form of non-ionizing electromagnetic radiation, like a low-powered microwave oven. Mobile devices increasingly flood our residential zones and the environment with electromagnetic fields. European Environment Agency (EEA), the top scientific environment authority in Europe, has warned of the possibility of looming environmental disasters following the increasing density of electromagnetic radiation.

Mobile phone devices was originally developed for the Department of Defense, it was never tested for safety when it entered the marketplace. Today there are more than two billion mobile phone users being exposed every day to the dangers of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). The public is little aware of these risk because they are not informed.

Mobile technology created electromagnetic radiation on earth is threatening ecological balance. Mobile phone radiations could be having varying negative impact on wildlife, particularly birds and bees. Animals that depend on electromagnetic fields for their orientation and navigation are confused by the stronger and constantly changing artificial fields created by this technology. The most affected of all is the most important insect species: the honeybee.

The bees happen to be the most indispensable insect needed for pollination and fructification of vegetable and agricultural crops. When the bees are in danger, our food supply will also be in danger. Mobile phone radiation contributes to colony collapse disorder in bees. Radiation interferes with bee’s navigation system, they become stressed and disoriented preventing them to find their way to the hive.

But not only are the bees and other insects disappearing – birds as well. An investigation in Spain showed that the number of sparrows was reduced when the electromagnetic field exceeded certain values. And even storks that built their nest near base stations could not rear any chicks. It is quite evident that electrical fields are damaging the reproduction of the stork.

The effects of mobile phone radiation not only stop on human, insects and animals but it extend to the trees as well. A study conducted by Wageningen University found that trees in areas with high Wi-fi activity were suffering from symptoms that couldn’t be tied to typical bacterial or viral causes. The symptoms included bleeding fissures in the bark, the death of parts of leaves, and abnormal growth. The researchers took 20 ash trees and exposed them to various kinds of radiation for three months. The trees exposed to Wi-Fi signals showed telltale signs of radiation sickness, including a “lead-like shine” on their leaves, caused by the dying of the upper and lower epidermis of the leaves. The researchers are planning several more studies to figure out the precise effects of radiation on plant life. If these continue there will be forest decline and desertification.

Natural electrical and magnetic fields are important for the orientation and navigation of a whole range of animals. Today this natural information and functional system of humans, animals and plants has been superimposed by electromagnetic field generated by mobile communication technologies. The consequences of this development should not be ignored; the long-term effects of mobile phone radiation on the environment must be addressed immediately.

recycling wine bottles

Recycling and Waste Management in the Hunter Valley

The decreasing landfill space, harmful environmental impacts of landfills, snowballing costs of waste disposal, and the increasing consumption of natural and non-renewable resources are all very good reasons to reduce, reuse and recycle waste.

The majority of the rubbish that ends up in the landfills is made up of organic and degradable materials that release greenhouse gases as they break down. Many of the different materials in the waste could be diverted before they reach the waste stream or have potential resource value if they could be recovered or recycled cost-effectively. It’s a good thing there are trusted rubbish removal companies in Australia which provide cost-effective waste management and recycling solutions.

With Sydney landfills and dumpsites reaching their capacity, there have been proposals on building a facility in the Hunter Valley to accommodate at least 8 million tonnes of waste from Sydney and other regions for the next 20 years.

This has been opposed by some group sectors as there’s always a big concern for public health especially with the waters being contaminated. Winemakers are also opposing as they fear that the dumping sites could wipe out the famous Hunter Valley grapevines and destroy a multimillion-dollar industry.

To help minimise waste and spread awareness, City councils are launching campaigns to save the environment. For instance, Maitland City Council has been working with other councils of the Hunter and the Central Coast Region to protect the bushland, parks and urban area centres from illegal dumping. Their campaign called “Dobbing in a Dumper” encourages residents to report any illegal dumping incidents to the council by providing information about the offender (description of person, car registration number, etc.).

There are more than 22 million people currently living in Australia and it is projected that the average Australian produces about 1 tonne of garbage per year and that is a lot of rubbish! With the country’s growing population, we cannot afford to maintain this rate of waste disposal.

Although many people are into recycling, our economy and society still waste a lot of resources that could be re-used and made into new products. The general public should have the initiative and take full responsibility of their own waste and the government must take action to work with the community to have a zero waste society. After all, when your region is as beautiful as the Hunter Valley, wouldn’t you want to preserve and keep it beautiful?