YOU scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream.
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Well, Newcastle imports Kate Luna and Nicholas Lane have come to the rescue with flavour of the month, Scream Ice Creamery.
Open until 10pm every night, the venture has started a conversation about the city's nightlife, or lack thereof.
"When we first spoke about our hours people said we were brave, but to be honest our busiest hours are from 8pm to 10pm," Ms Luna said.
"We'll never shut our doors before 10pm, that's just a rule.
"If they're here until midnight, we're here until midnight."
A small bar similar to Welder's Dog was the original plan, but with five children they needed a business model that was a little more relaxed.
While there are plenty of bars around, Ms Luna noticed there wasn't a lot for youth to do after hours.
"When you can't go anywhere and there's no nightlife, the town is screaming for it," she said.
"There's a lot of people in this town screaming for something different."
... we've got high-school kids calling us mum and dad now.
- Kate Luna
A night-time economy would draw more visitors to the region and attract families, Tamworth Business Chamber president Jye Segboer said.
"When we are competing with other regional or coastal centres, the liveability of a city helps attract growth," he said.
"Late night Thursday shopping is a great place to start, many national chain retailers are already open and it would be great to see our local retailers and boutiques open as well."
Upgrades to Fitzroy Plaza have been under-utilised, Mr Segboer said, and could feature entertainment on a Thursday night.
Scream Ice Creamery's Kate and Nick moved to Tamworth seven months ago to be closer to family and fed up with Newcastle's cost of living.
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The space wedged between Buk Choy Thai restaurant and Safari Club just made sense.
"We know we haven't touched a quarter of the town but we already have our regulars, we've got high-school kids calling us mum and dad now," Ms Luna said.
"The support we have got from the locals has been unbelievable, I don't think I've ever been in a town where I've gotten so much support."
And, there's good news for those with a sweet tooth, the plan is to open a dessert bar next door in just three months.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
