Meals On Wheels Newcastle - Newsletter Issue 2. Nov 2025
Culinary Care With a Twist
At Newcastle Meals on Wheels, looking after your health & wellbeing is at the top of our menu- literally! Before rolling out our new Summer Menu, we called in the experts and had a dietitian give our recipes a good once-over to make sure they’re packed with all the right nutrients for older Australians. Some of your old favourites now have new recipes with added nutrients, giving you tasty meals that support a healthier lifestyle.
We reckon you’ll keep loving our meals, knowing each bite is doing your body good and helping you tick all the boxes for healthy living. Bon appétit— and here’s to nourishing both body and soul!
Volunteer Voices
Stories That Nourish the Soul
At Newcastle Meals on Wheels, our volunteers are more than just helping hands—they are the heartbeat of our community. Each delivery, each smile, each shared moment tells a story of connection, compassion, and purpose.
In this edition, we shine a light on the incredible journeys of volunteers like Kevin, who joined “just to give it a go,” now finds joy in the camaraderie of the Toronto branch and the friendships formed with clients and fellow drivers. His story reminds us that sometimes, the smallest acts can leave the biggest impact.
Kevin Macey
I’ve been with Meals on Wheels for 2 years. When I started, I thought “I’ll try some volunteer work with MOW”, it’s close to home, I can give it a go and try something else if I don’t like it... Well! I love it!
My first day volunteering was with a long-standing volunteer, David, I went out on a delivery run with him, he showed me how the delivery run is organised and introduced me to the clients. When I was comfortable with the delivery run I started to deliver to clients myself and I have a good relationship with them. I think we all have a client that stands out for one reason or another, but one of my clients loves to have a chat for about 10 minutes and I enjoy having a conversation with her too!
I usually get to the branch early to help the Branch Coordinator with little jobs and have a chat, then the drivers come in ready for the deliveries. Sometimes there’s time for a cuppa but there’s always a chat about the weekend or a joke. There’s a great sense of camaraderie amongst the volunteers and that leads to friendships formed with other volunteers. I’ve been impressed with what it takes to get a meal delivered to a client. It is very involved, but worth it when you know that it is appreciated. If someone was thinking about volunteering with Meals on Wheels I’d say “Go for It”, you’ll be glad you did.
Support at Home
Aged care is changing, and we want to keep you informed. We’ve partnered with Seniors Rights Services to offer information sessions about their work and upcoming changes. Sessions will be held in Morisset, Hamilton, and Tomaree. Book your FREE TICKET Morning tea provided. Clients, families, and volunteers are welcome. Call 02 4957 7097 to book or scan below.
Morisset SCAN QR CODE to Book Tuesday 2nd December 10am -12:30pm
Hamilton SCAN QR CODE to Book Thursday 4th December 10am -12:30pm
Tomaree SCAN QR CODE to Book Tuesday 9th December 10am -12:30pm
Falls Prevention Talks
One in three Australians over 55 experiences at least one fall each year. To address this risk, we provide guidance for clients and volunteers. CPSA health promotion services will conduct a FREE Falls Injury Prevention talk in Morisset, Hamilton, and Tomaree, with morning tea available. Attendance is free of charge. This event is open to clients, volunteers, friends, and family. Call 02 4957 7097 to book or scan below.
Tomaree SCAN QR CODE to Book Tuesday 11th November 10 am – 12:30pm
Hamilton SCAN QR CODE to Book Thursday 13th November 10 am – 12:30pm
Morisset SCAN QR CODE to Book Thursday 25th November 10 am – 12:30pm
The Truth About Snacks
Beat the Heat Stay Safe This Summer
Why Older Australians Should Embrace Them
For generations, many of us grew up hearing that snacking between meals would ruin our appetites or lead to weight gain. But new research is challenging that long-held belief—especially for older Australians. Studies now show that healthy snacking can actually support good nutrition, hydration, and overall wellbeing in our later years.
As we age, smaller appetites and changing energy needs can make it harder to get all the nutrients we need from three main meals. That’s where smart snacking comes in. Choosing small, nutrient-rich snacks throughout the day can help maintain energy levels, manage weight, and add variety to your diet.
Of course, not all snacks are created equal. While an entire packet of mint slice biscuits might not qualify as “nutrient-dense,” wholesome options like cheese and crackers, yoghurt, fruit, or nuts can make a big difference.
So next time you’re peckish between meals, don’t feel guilty—embrace it! Snacking can be part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle when done right.
Have your say by giving us feedback: would you be interested in purchasing small snacks from Meals on Wheels, such as cheese and crackers?
Hot weather can be dangerous, especially for older adults, young children, and those with medical conditions.
To stay safe:
• Keep cool: Use fans or air-conditioning, wear light clothing, and avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly—even if you’re not thirsty. Avoid alcohol and sugary drinks.
• Know the signs: Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion like dizziness, nausea, and heavy sweating. If symptoms worsen, seek medical help immediately.
Plan ahead, check in on vulnerable neighbours, and make sure you know what to do in a heatwave.
To find out more visit www.health.nsw.gov.au or scan the QR Code
Whistleblower Policy Speak Up Safely
Newcastle Meals on Wheels is committed to integrity and transparency. Our Whistleblower Policy provides a safe and confidential way for anyone—staff, volunteers, clients, carers, or visitors—to report serious misconduct such as fraud, unsafe practices, or unethical behaviour.
This process is not for regular feedback or complaints. It is specifically for reporting serious concerns that may impact the safety, legality, or ethical standards of our service.
How to Enact the Whistleblower Policy:
• Email: wpo@mow.net.au
• Phone: 02 4957 7097
• Request to enact the Whistleblower Policy.
The importance of following heating instructions:
Every now and then, we get a comment about the meat in our meals being a bit on the tough side. So, here’s a friendly reminder that our meals come with heating instructions! To get the tastiest results, be sure to read them before you tuck in. Double-check how your microwave is set up—and whatever you do, please resist the urge to whack the “Quick Start” button 15 times in a row. Your taste buds will thank you!
If you have followed these instructions but are still experiencing chewy chunks, please contact us at 02 4957 7097 to provide your feedback.
• Our Whistleblower Protection Officer (WPO) is currently serving as Acting CEO, ensuring independence and confidentiality in handling reports.
Reports can be made anonymously to:
• A senior manager
• The Whistleblower Protection Officer
• Our auditor
• Relevant authorities
We endeavour to review reports within five business days, and investigations are conducted with fairness and confidentiality. Protections are in place to prevent retaliation.
Let’s continue to do what’s right—together.
Did You Know
Newcastle Meals on Wheels offers social support in the Lake Macquarie and Newcastle LGAs. If you need assistance with shopping or appointments, we can help!
Contact us at 02 4957 7097 to learn more or email your interest to wellness@mow.net.au
Christmas is around the corner!
Newcastle Meals on Wheels will pause service over Christmas, with the last deliveries on Monday, 21 December, resuming on Monday, 5 January 2026. If you or someone you know would appreciate a check-in call during this time, contact your branch coordinator to connect with one of our friendly staff.
Feedback
Please contact us on the information below or scan the QR code to submit.
Newcastle Meals On Wheels 3/5 Revelation Cl, Tighes Hill Call 02 4957 7097 or email info@mow.net.au.
