Melissa Histon Announced as the 2017 Local Woman of the Year

BY SARAH BARONOWSKI

This morning, Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp appeared at Nobby's Beach Surf Life Saving Club to announce Melissa Histon as the 2017 Local Woman of the Year.

The founder of the "Got Your Back Sista" Charity was presented with the award for her work against domestic violence and her willingness to take a stand on the issue.

MP Tim Crakanthorp says Melissa's work made her stand out from the crowd.

"Melissa is an outstanding advocate against domestic violence in Newcastle and the Hunter. Last year she had a great event called 'I say No to Domestic Violence' which saw a huge amount of people come together at Hunter Stadium," he said.

"She takes a stand and encourages others to join her which is a wonderful thing."

Mr. Crakanthorp says Melissa is a worthy recipient of this title.

"She's the founder of the 'Sista Code' and tackles the tough issues of domestic violence and sex trafficking," he said.

"She's truly deserving of our 2017 local woman of the year."

Melissa Histon, 2017 Local Woman of the Year
[Image: Newcastle Herald]

Chateau Élan at The Vintage continues a winning streak

BY JESSICA ROUSE

Chateau Élan at The Vintage in the Hunter Valley has scooped the pool at this year's NSW Tourism Accommodation Australia Awards. 

Already holding an impressive collection of awards, this time the hotel has won the Conference Hotel Of The Year Award - Regional and the Housekeeper Of The Year Award.

Resort Operations Manager Ray Manulat says the dedication and drive of staff are the key to their success and has nothing but praise for the housekeeping staff headed by Stacey Mitchell who won the Housekeeper Of The Year Award.

"The facility and the product itself is unique and the quality of the product is very high. Most importantly I think the staff, the people that are here, they have a true passion."

This latest achievement for Chateau Élan will be just two among many of the Regional and State Awards as well as industry accolades the business has won, including Winner of Best Australian Golf Resort, TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for Excellence three years running, and the Trivago Top Hotel Award NSW, just to name a few.