A Newcastle business owner has launched a passionate defence of her suburb, calling out online critics who disparage the area without having visited it in years. Emily Coker, who runs a boutique in the city's East End, used a letter to the Newcastle Herald to challenge the negative commentary she says is plaguing local businesses.
East End Entrepreneur Urges Critics to 'Put the Shoe on the Other Foot'
In her letter published on January 9, 2026, Coker expressed her frustration with persistent online claims that there is 'no reason to go' to the East End, citing a lack of retail, parking, and businesses. She revealed she will soon celebrate five years in business, a milestone she attributes to the area's unique appeal.
'I urge you, the 'entitled critique variety', to put the shoe on the other foot,' Coker wrote. 'I am sure you would not put up with continued negativity about your son's barber business, or your mother's art gallery, or your friend's cafe.'
She highlighted the recent example of a couple from Berowra who drove specifically to visit her store after hearing about its uniqueness, calling it evidence of people going out of their way to support independents. Coker praised the East End's historic architecture, art galleries, diverse hospitality venues, health professionals, retail offerings, and natural open spaces—'You don't get that at shopping centres,' she stated.
The former independent candidate for Ward 1 concluded by asking 'keyboard warriors' to keep their opinions to themselves, noting she does not broadcast views on their employment.
Readers Voice Concerns on Power, Division, and Policy
The same letters page featured a range of other opinions from Novocastrians on pressing issues. David Reynolds from Coal Point argued for the re-regulation of electricity costs, blaming the privatisation of state assets begun by former Victorian Premier Jeff Kennett for creating an unfair market where providers can 'gouge customers.'
John Cooper from Charlestown lamented a perceived deep national division, quoting swimming legend Dawn Fraser, who said the current climate of hate 'breaks my heart.' Cooper listed conflicts over history, Indigenous relations, renewables, immigration, and cost of living as signs of a fractured nation.
In a controversial take on foreign policy, Bruce Taggart from Hamilton South suggested the US and Israeli governments bore some responsibility for inciting Islamic extremism, citing historical support for groups in Afghanistan and Gaza, with 'blow back' affecting countries like Australia.
Community Sound-Off: From E-Bikes to Supermarket PINs
The letters section also served as a forum for local gripes and observations. George Marshall from Swansea questioned why rules that once governed petrol-powered bicycles don't seem to apply to modern e-bikes. Grant Agnew from Coopers Plains expressed annoyance at having to use a PIN for everyday shopping, arguing that $100 is no longer a significant threshold.
Sports also got a look-in, with Peter Hay from Islington suggesting cricketer Travis Head needed a 'reality check,' questioning how he would fare against Australia's top bowlers. Other letters touched on international law, the conduct of the Israeli government in Gaza, and domestic political criticism.
The collective voice in the Newcastle Herald's letters column paints a picture of a community deeply engaged with local identity, frustrated by online negativity, and concerned with broader economic and social cohesion.
