Hunter businesses anxious ahead of Christmas

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Hunter businesses are bracing for more uncertainty and are more concerned than the NSW average, according to the latest Business Conditions Survey.

39 percent of local businesses told Business Hunter, they are "extremely concerned" about the impact of rising interest rates on business expansion plans.

The region's business confidence index is expected to fall to -72.5 in the next quarter, nearing a lowest possible score of -100. 

CEO Bob Hawes says it's the first time businesses have been less optimistic about the future than the present, since the pandemic began.

Staff shortages, energy prices, supply chain issues, and interest rates remain serious concerns.

Last chance for the Hunter to post in time for Christmas

BY DAKOTA TAIT

Today's the last chance for the Hunter to send packages in the standard Parcel Post if they want gifts to make it in time for Christmas.

Those running behind in the Christmas rush have until Monday 20th December to take advantage of the Express Post instead.

It's important to know that some parts of the Hunter aren't included in the Express Post network.

Australia Post are expected to break last December's delivery record of more than 52 million parcels across the country, and it's likely three million parcels could be delivered on some peak days.

Image credit: auspost.com.au

Super Sunday Planned for Bikers Toy Run

BY LAUREN FREEMANTLE

The Hunter's motorcyclists are shining their bikes and putting the finishing touches on their costumes, in time for an event which has been putting smiles on the faces of disadvantaged children for over 40 years.

The Bikers for Kids Toy Run will see about 8000 motorcyclists turn the ignition at Stockton's Ballast Park at 10am, cruising to Wickham Park in time to meet community members for a fun day out.

The park will come alive with Christmas cheer - expect to see amusement rides, food trucks, markets, competitions and the raffle of a Nemesis XY400 motorbike worth $6000.

Newcastle rock legend Grant Walmsley will take to the stage with the GW Freebird Blues Band and there'll be a series of fun prizes on offer.

However, the main focus of the event is a toy drive for the Salvation Army.

Last year, the Toy Run benefited over 4000 local families, and Bikers for Kids Chairman Daryn Young is hoping people will again be generous.

"It's for the kids who don't get the Christmas presents on Christmas morning - every kid deserves a smile on their face."

2NURFM's very own Kev Kellaway will be manning the microphone as Master of Ceremonies.

"I've ridden in the Toy Run for several years now and there's a wonderful feeling of goodwill and charity throughout the ride. It's a pleasure to assist the Bikers for Kids and Salvation Army, who help so many families throughout the Hunter," Kev said.

All toys donated should be unwrapped and suitable for children up to age 14. The event is running 10:30am - 1:30pm at Wickham Park, Sunday 2nd December.

Kev Kellaway joins the Bikers for Kids team, suited up and ready to go. Visitors are encouraged to don their own capes and wear undies on the outside. 

Helping Hunter Families at Christmas Time

BY: ALEX MURRAY


Starting today, the Cessnock City Council's Christmas Gift and Food appeal are asking for donations during the festive season to help the less unfortunate families in the community.

The donations will go towards the Kurri Kurri Community Centre as well as the Samaritans Information and Neighbourhood centre which already has substantial contributions annually from the Hunter region.

As part of the Christmas appeal, the council is asking for any generous donation of toys and non-perishable food items which can be dropped off under the Christmas tree at the Cessnock City Council administration.

The Cessnock City Mayor, Bob Pynsent says, "The donations mean a lot to local families that are doing it tough this festive season."

"Throughout the year, not just Christmas, we are assisting around 40 families in the area which equates to more than 80 children"

"I think we have a very caring community and this is how they share their support to the wider area."

Donation Drop of Points include:

Cessnock Administration Building: 62-78 Vincent Street Cessnock

Kurri Kurri Library: 245 Lang Street Kurri Kurri NSW

Cessnock Library: 63/65 Vincent St, Cessnock NSW