Clarence Scene July 18 by Clarence Valley Independent

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Magazine WINTER 2018

J ULY RACING CARNIVAL

INSIDE: MODELLED FROM THE HEART Wally Gates LIFE AS A FEMALE TRAINER Julie Hodder LIFE ON A YACHT Glynda McNaught ‘IS THIS THE MEETING’ Geoff Helisma

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From under the desk... How fast can one year go? Already we are almost on top of another Grafton July Racing Carnival. It’s going to be another great year for the carnival and, according to CRJC’s executive officer Michael Beattie, we should all ‘come on down’. This year’s event is going to be better than ever with even higher prize money. Julie Hodder talks with Lynne Mowbray about her life as a female horse trainer. Our racing feature gives you all the information you need to enjoy a great carnival. This edition has more great stories from our journalists for your reading pleasure. Geoff Helisma talks with Wally Gates, whose enthusiasm for life belies the life-threatening conditions that he has endured over recent times, and discovers a man whose lust for life seems boundless. In a first for Scene, Geoff Helisma reveals a little about his past and his desire to join a surfing ‘tribe’. It’s an insightful look into what is just a small part of his life. Lynne Mowbray had the opportunity to catch up with Glynda McNaught as she sailed with the SICYC [Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club] in the Inaugural SICYC Clarence River Classic in May this year. Glynda reflects on a tragic accident that almost took her life and her love of the water. Wow, this issue is sure to keep you entertained. I think we are privileged to be able to share in the lives of so many wonderful people in our community, even just for a few moments. So, my advice - when you finish reading Scene - frock up, get yourself off to the carnival and enjoy one of the valley’s most prominent events on the calendar. Happy reading.

On the Cover

Track work rider Chloe Mayberry shows the special bond between local horse ‘Just Imagine’ and rider. Image: Lynne Mowbray

CONTENTS ż JULY RACING PROGRAMME

LIFE ON A YACHT

Lynda

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Image: Lynne Mowbray

Address: Unit 4/1, Fairtrader Drive, Yamba Business Park Phone: 02 6646 9466 Web: www.clarencevalleynews.com.au Email: sales@cvreview.com.au

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SLOW COOKING THIS WINTER

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RACING STYLE General Manager Ann Mazzitelli Sub Editor Lynda Davidson

Journalists Geoff Helisma Lynne Mowbray

Graphic Designers Chloe Billington Lynda Davidson Bec Davies Lisa Wright

Sales Consultants Fran Dowsett Marta Fergusson Lisa Wright

Published by Gresen Enterprises t/a the Clarence Valley Independent Printed by APN Warwick

Disclaimer: The information contained in this publication is given in good faith. This publication should not be used or relied on as a substitute for detailed professional advice or used as a basis for formulating important lifestyle decisions. 4

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June 2018

To the maximum extent permitted by law, Greysen Enterprises (publisher of the Scene and Clarence Valley Independent) accepts no liability for loss or damage arising as a result of any person acting in reliance on information contained in this publication.

Greysen Enterprises is not responsible for views or comments contained in advertisements. Therefore, it is the advertisers or their agency’s responsibility to ensure the content and claims in their advertisements are not in breach of the Trade Practices Act.

Copyright. All material including graphic design, editorial content, photography and advertising appearing in this magazine is copyright restricted and may not be reproduced without written permission from the Publisher or from persons holding copyright for specific feature articles.

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Modelled from the

A model of the Austin Seven racing car Wally built from scrap, the first working, petrol-powered aeroplane he built and a newspaper clipping of his brother, Eric, with the aeroplane.

‘If you have a block of stone, simply take away the parts that don’t matter, it’s already in the material.’

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ver the past four years or so Wally Gates has endured a triple heart bypass, the insertion of stents in his legs, prostate cancer and a plated and screwed broken leg. However, enthusiasm betrays his wrestle with these life-threatening conditions. Effervescent sparks light up blue eyes framed by 79 years of life etched into a face that belies the youthful eagerness inhabiting his words. And there’s wisdom, too; of the kind that comes from decades of experience, first germinated by teachers who provided life-guiding advice. Aged 14, he graduated from South Sydney Junior Technical School, where he “concentrated on woodwork, metal work and tech drawing – they were very thorough and when you left school at Year 9 you went out and got a job”. Eventually a primary school teacher, the skills Wally learnt at tech proved to be very useful. At teachers college, one of his tutors instilled a “deep philosophical” desire within him that informs his ability to shape something out of something/

nothing – whether it’s one of his wondrous, working models or a child whom he taught. As Wally tells his stories, it seems there’s a certain philosophy embedded in his DNA. “The main thing is, strangely enough, I see things I have made [in the past] and wonder: how did I do that? Where did I get the idea for that from? And it comes back to the teacher at college, who said, ‘If you have a block of stone’, if Leonardo Da Vinci has a block of stone, or Michelangelo has a block of stone, they ‘simply take away the parts that don’t matter’; and there you have the Statue of David. Or you have a ball; or something. ‘It’s already in the material.’” Wally’s house is part museum: there’s a room dedicated to the majority of models he has made throughout his life and more of his creations are exhibited here and there, sometimes with some photographs from the relevant time. But the clues about how his enthusiasm was born are found in a cabinet dedicated to family; his father’s shelf bears intricate carvings among photographs and red poppies. And there’s a

heart

GEOFF HEILSMA

book on Wally’s kitchen table, Zero Night: The Untold Story of World War Two's Greatest Escape, – known as the 'Warburg Wire Job’ – about a little-known escape from a German prisoner of war camp on August 30, 1942. “Dad was in that POW camp with Douglas Bader when prisoners built a folding ladder to get over the wire,” says Wally, pointing to a picture in the book. His father, who was deaf due to hearing damage suffered in combat, was repatriated to England years later as part of a POW swap. “These are Dad’s carvings from in the POW camp. Look at the detail of that [a recreation of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps coat of arms]. Have a really good look at that. The detail is phenomenal, considering it’s a wood carving. He would send them back to me. There’s something that is handed down through DNA that makes me do and make things – I’ll see a picture and think, ‘wow, I’ll make one of those’ ... and I’ll just go ahead and do it.” A model of a petrol-powered aeroplane Wally built when he was 13 is displayed on his dining room table; a framed, yellowed newspaper clipping sits alongside. It’s captioned: One of the young fry––Eric Gates with his and [his] brother Walter’s plane at Centennial Park, Sydney, at a recent flying meeting. “I made aeroplanes and gliders out of balsa wood and Dad eventually gave me an aeroplane engine and a kit for Christmas. I learnt to fly on it, my brother learnt to fly on it. My sons learnt to fly on it. It’s crashed and been smashed many times. I kept it for years and years in the garage all smashed up. One day, just recently, I thought I’d better do something about it and I rebuilt it.” There’s a car, too; a model of an Austin Seven racing car from the 1930s. But there’s more to this model than meets the eye – in fact, it’s a model of a car that Wally built from ‘found’ and fabricated parts, using a postcard he purchased at the Donnington Car Museum (UK) in the 1970s as his guide. Wally was working in the UK at the time as part of a teacher exchange program, before returning to his home at Mt Colah, near Hornsby, Sydney. “I was racing sports cars in Australia and the vintage scene was just starting to take off. I looked around for cars but couldn’t afford one. I fell in love with the Austin Seven [racing car], however, you couldn’t actually buy one, because they only made four or five. I pinned the postcard on the garage wall and looked at it and looked at it. ‘I’ll build one; I’ll build one,’ I declared. ‘But how will I do it?’” Wally placed an advertisement in the Trading Post: ‘Wanted Austin Seven bits’. “A guy rings up and says, ‘I just bought a house, and there’s a pile of scrap metal under it.’ The story was that the fellow who owned the house in the ’50s went off to national service in the Korean

War. He and his mate had thrown the [non-racing Austin Seven] body away and were ready to put a fibreglass Buchannan body [modelled on an Aston Martin DB-3 racing car] on it when they were called up. “They cut the chassis up and shoved it under the house with the engine, steering, and front and back axles. They came back totally different boys and forgot about it; his dad lived in the house, passed away and it was sold. “I had a chassis in four pieces. I laid it out on the concrete floor of my garage and thought: ‘It’s just garbage, it’s all chopped up and the engine won’t turn over.’ I thought, ‘Hang on, I could use this and build that.’ I called it ‘Albert Austin’. A chap in Victoria somewhere owns it now.” There are four versions of a German U-boat in Wally’s front room, the largest of which is a working remote-controlled model about two metres long – an aerial off an old transistor radio was “adapted into the communication tower system so the aerial was out of the water” when in dive mode. The first, not much bigger than a forefinger, was made by his father when in the POW camp; the second, Wally built inside a bottle; and, the third one was too small to accommodate the machinery to make it work. “It was getting close to the end of the war and a German U-boat was caught and brought into the harbour where I lived at Sunderland. We went to see the submarine and we went onboard. It was one of those things I will remember till the day I die: the smell, the mess and the muck. That was the start of me thinking about submarines. “I built the first one, but couldn’t get the machinery into it. That really stirred me; so I built the machinery on a block of wood so I could make it turn left, turn right and go down and come back up and go. Once I had the machinery on the block of wood – the ballast tanks and all the pumps and everything – I took the machinery off the wood and built the sub around it.” There are two model steam engines in a cabinet, atop of which sit three model warplanes made from soft drink cans. Wally says that he has been intrigued by steam engines since he was “a kid”. “After I made the first plane and engine, I asked Dad: ‘Could I have a steam engine please?’ And he said, ‘No.’ He said, ‘Look Wal, you’re playing around with your aeroplanes, engines and rubber band gliders. If you get a steam engine you’re going to shift your focus from that to this – and play with your steam engines. I suggest that you focus on one or the other: planes or steam engines?’ So I focussed on aeroplanes.

‘It was getting close to the end of the war and a German U-boat was caught and brought into the harbour where I lived at Sunderland. It was one of those things I will remember till the day I die: the smell, the mess and the muck.’

Two working model steam angines: the bottom one powered a light and pumped water so it would “do something”.

Each of these model aeroplanes is made from clothes pegs. June 2018

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A working remote-controlled model of German U-boat he saw as a boy at the dock in Sunderland, UK.

The three model warplanes on top of the cabinet are made from soft drink cans.

Wally’s students made paper mache dragons. Image: Contributed

“Now that I’m retired I could get on the internet and buy stuff, but that’s no fun. What have I got down stairs? I’ve got bits of wire, bits of pipes; why don’t I make one? I bought a book on how to build it, how it worked. A piece of exhaust pipe was the boiler, a Welsh plug from a car; I put it on the end and soldered it up. So I’ve got a steam engine, great, terrific.” Wally’s next door neighbour and friend became his sounding board. “I started it up for him and it goes, ‘tut, tut, tut, tut, tut, tut...’ “He says, ‘Well what does it do?’ “‘It goes tut, tut, tut, tut, tut...’ “He says, ‘It’s got to do something!’ “I said, ‘It does, it’s going.’ “He says with more emphasis, ‘It’s got to do something!’ “So I built the second one, which pumps water up to the top and it comes back down. I got a generator off a push bike from the tip and I put that into the system and it turns on the light. I took it back down and said, ‘Here’s one that does something.’ “He said it was terrific, ‘It makes a noise, bup, bup, bup, bup, the light goes on and the water goes through.’” Wally says his neighbour, who recently died, “was responsible for the aeroplanes I’ve built” most recently. A similar pattern of build it, invent a new challenge and build it again ensued. “I made a Spitfire and took it down to him. He said, ‘That is absolutely fantastic; what are you going to do next?’ “He says, ‘You need a German one ... now you need something from the Pacific.’ “I built the Corsair, an American airplane from the Pacific Theatre of War. ‘Well that’s the American one, now you need the Japanese one.’ “He said, ‘Wow, would you do me a favour and “This is one of Dad’s carvings,” says Wally. “He would send them back from the German POW camp. “ Images: Geoff Helisma

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June 2018

‘Every now and again on a Friday afternoon if it was raining, the kids would get into groups, take a lawnmower out into the shed – they all had their tools – and they’d pull the lawnmower engine apart and put it back together again.’ build me one?’ I took it down each day and got it fully assembled and ready for painting and he passed away.” Wally’s primary school teacher career was a great place to share his creative compunction with his young charges and, it seems, despite 20 years passing since he retired, many students still contact him. He shows a photo album with pictures of his year 3 and 4 students and the giant paper mache dragons they created. He remembers a time when he had “four or five old lawn mowers painted different colours”. “Every now and again on a Friday afternoon if it was raining, the kids would get into groups, take a lawnmower out into the shed – they all had their tools – and they’d pull the lawnmower engine apart and put it back together again.” Do you have any anecdotes of appreciation from these kids? “I get Christmas cards from my kids all the time,” he says. He shows a picture of himself and a former student taken last year, which is in a frame alongside photos taken when they were teacher and student. “These kids ring me and talk to me – I get more Christmas cards from the kids than I do from anyone else,” he says. Wally’s not done making models from scavenged materials yet, though. “I can’t stop and do nothing; I have to be doing something, keeping myself busy and active ... and having a challenge. “At the moment I have a picture of a Lockheed P-38 Lightning, and I thought, ‘Oh, I’ve never made a model of a lightning aeroplane from WWII.’ “I’d just started work on it and wondered how I’d made all of those little ones [out of clothes pegs]. “I wanted a small one, but it’s turned out to be a big one,” he says, spreading his arms out like a fisher showing the size of a fish they’d caught.

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Main: Julie Hodder with Hippopus, who has so far won $500,000 in prize money. Julie hopes to see him get a run in this year’s Maclean Cup. Bottom Inset: Track side: Open trainers Julie Hodder and Neville Stewart. Images: Lynne Mowbray. Top Inset: Julie Hodder and her jockey daughter, Belinda Hodder. Image: Contributed.

LIFE AS A

FEMALE TRAINER LYNNE MOWBRAY

orse trainer Julie Hodder of ‘Julie Hodder Racing Stables’ in Grafton; has had a lifelong affinity with horses. Julie said that she has been involved in the industry from around the age of 15 when she got her strappers licence in Perth. “I’ve always been obsessed with horses and wanted to be around them,” Julie said. “I’ve been a trainer for 15 years and have been working out of these stables (Cuban Song Lodge) on and off for around six years. “Racing runs in the family. My nanna was involved in racing and each of my three children (two daughters and a son) have all been involved in the racing industry. “My daughter, jockey Belinda Hodder has had great success and an amazing career spanning 10 years and is currently a leading NSW female rider.

“As a trainer, you put 100 per-cent into what you do and you do it out of love for the horses. “They all have their own unique personalities. There are so many things that go into a champion horse. It’s a combination of heart, mind, stride, the will to win and attitude is important. “You want to see your horses thrive and see them grow and be happy. “You can quickly see if they are not enjoying what they’re doing – they’ll go off their food. “You can’t make a 500 – 600 kilo animal do what they don’t want to do and although you feed them well, you can’t make a slow horse fast. “I have six horses currently in my stable and I enjoy having a smaller stable as you can give your horses 100 per-cent of your attention,” she said.

Julie said that as much as she loves her job as a trainer she has no aspirations of being another Gai Waterhouse. “I take my hat off to her,” said Julie. “I look up to her and her strength and how she runs such a large stable. “She is a real inspiration for female trainers,” she said. Julie is looking forward to seeing some of her horses have a run during the upcoming July Racing Carnival in Grafton. “Hopefully La Dolsa Vita will get a run in the Kirby and Hippopus a run in the Maclean Cup, she said. The Julie Hodder Racing stable trained two winners last season and has produced four winners so far this season, with More Patasi winning in Grafton on 30 April.

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‘Come on down’ – interview with CRJC Executive Officer Michael Beattie LYNNE MOWBRAY

he Kensei Club dinner on 26 May, launched the start of this year’s July Racing Carnival. The Kensei Club is named after the winner of the 1987 Grafton Cup, Kensei who went on to win the Melbourne Cup, the same year. For a small investment [compared to what the purchase of this type of sponsorship would normally be] Kensei Club members have the opportunity to win the naming rights to sponsor the Grafton Cup. This year’s Kensei Club dinner incorporated the running of the 12th Kensei Club Cup, to determine the naming rights for the 2018 Grafton Cup, which was won by G McMullan Contracting. Clarence River Jockey Club [CRJC] executive officer Michael Beattie said that he is looking forward to another successful racing carnival this year. “I was very happy with the support of the Kensei Club this year, with our membership up from eight in recent years, to 10 this year,” Mr Beattie said. “We had a couple of new players, which I think is wonderful. It is, in my view, a really great concept and I can’t take any of the credit for designing the Kensei Club, but it is something that I think works for Grafton. “It gives that small to medium business an opportunity to get the naming rights to a race, that otherwise would be very difficult for them to justify the expenditure. “At the Kensei Club dinner, I

think the social side of the night was brilliant. The interaction amongst all our guests, not only Kensei Club members but invited club guests, was great. People also got to know a bit about what the Kensei Club’s about. “The Kensei Cup that we run at the end of the night [to try and find the winner for the Grafton Cup naming rights] is always a bit of fun; but this year it was a lot of fun – it was very good. “This year the club sat down and had a really big think about what they could do to inject some additional interest back into the carnival; that’s not to say that it’s been disappointing in recent years, because it hasn’t been, but you can’t rest on your laurels. “Last year we had an increase in prize money of $45,000, which we think benefited the carnival. This year we’ve increased prize money by an additional $85,000 on top of last year and it’s very much a case of the rationale that we’ve probably had since I’ve been back, and that is to go back and have a look at what worked well for you in the past and try as best you can to replicate that into the future. “When Grafton was at its absolute best, our races were run for about double of what they were in other parts of country NSW. Now the present prize money levelled in country NSW is $20,000 for a race. With this prize money increase for 2018, we’ve taken every race on Grafton Cup Day to in excess of $40,000; which means that every race on our major day is double the prize money, of anywhere else in

country NSW. “We’re very proud of that and we think it will create significant interest for the club and one thing that has certainly stood the test of time in racing is if you have a lot of different horses coming from different areas: that generates great interest and great betting turnover and at the end of the day we’re an industry that is certainly funded by the amount of betting turnover that you’re generating and we would be hoping that we get an increase in our betting turnover that justifies the additional prize money that we pay. “I think we’ve done wonderfully well in relation to our official guests; Darren Weir – who’s the most successful trainer currently in Australia is our special guest at the barrier draw luncheon on the Monday and he’s indicated at this stage that he’s going to be staying around for the carnival. He’s not confirmed as to whether he’ll have runners, but that’s most certainly an opportunity. “We’ve also been able to get Shawn Cosgrove, who is a presenter on Sky Racing Radio. He’s a larger than life character in racing, and he’s a particularly entertaining gentleman when he’s on stage and when he’s being interviewed. For non racing people he’s probably best known as being the voice over on ‘The Price is Right’, which Shawn talks about when he’s interviewed. “I suppose the perfect thing that I can say in relation to the Grafton carnival for this year, is just ‘come on down’.”

Join us at the races...

Top: CRJC Executive Officer Michael Beattie at the 2018 July Racing Carnival launch and Kensei Club dinner, which was held at the CRJC, on 26 May. Image: Lynne Mowbray

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Images: Simon Hughes

2018 CRJC July Carnival Events Programme Thursday July 5, 2018

WESTLAWN FINANCE PRELUDE DAY Opening Day of the 2018 July Carnival • Free entry courtesy of Westlawn Finance • Grafton Cup Prelude - winner gets entry to Grafton Cup • John Carlton Cup - winner gets entry to Ramornie Handicap • Fashions on the Field • Gates open - TBA

Sunday July 8, 2018

GRAFTON TOYOTA SOUTH GRAFTON CUP DAY $50,000 South Grafton Cup (1,600m) • Grafton Shoppingworld Fashions on the Field “Face of the Carnival” contest

• Live Music on the WestLawn • Gates open TBA First Race TBA • Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

Wednesday July 11, 2018

GRAFTON DISTRICT SERVICES CLUB RAMORNIE HANDICAP $160,000 Grafton District Services Club Ramornie Handicap (1,200m) $50,000* Tursa Employment & Training Inglis Bonus Grafton Guineas (1,600m) • $50,000 Inglis Bonus applies if nominated to the Inglis Race Series • Buses to and from the Racecourse • Live Music on the WestLawn • Gates open TBA • Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

Thursday July 12, 2018

G McMULLAN CONTRACTING GRAFTON CUP $160,000 Grafton Cup • Grafton Shoppingworld Cup Day Fashions on the Field • Buses to and from the Racecourse • Live Music on the WestLawn • Grafton’s biggest social event • Gates open TBA • Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

Sunday July 15, 2018

MACLEAN CUP DAY Maclean Bowling Club Maclean Cup (1,400m) • Final day of the carnival • Live Music on the WestLawn • Grafton Shoppingworld Kids Fashions events • Free kids entertainment • Gates open TBA • Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

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Enter to win! Simply enter our Grafton Shoppingworld Fashions on the Field events for your chance to WIN A 2 NIGHT GETAWAY thanks to the Angourie Resort and Blue Dolphin!

SUNDAY 8TH JULY – SOUTH

•Style and design of the millinery – ie. originality, concept of the GRAFTON CUP (LADIES DAY) design theme and wearability. All ladies who enter will receive a glass •Focus on overall, elegant look with of bubbles! attention to detail. OPTUS Lady of the Carnival •Hat or headwear with a winter Prizes will be awarded to the winner influence is essential. and runner up: THURSDAY 12TH JULY – G McMULLAN What are the judges looking for? •Overall elegant statement, style and CONTRACTING GRAFTON CUP originality, racing elegance from RED HOT HAIR Best Dressed Lady top-to-toe. Prizes awarded to overall winner •Accessories to complement each and contemporary other and overall outfit, eg. shoes, winner handbag, jewellery, hosiery etc. What are the judges looking for? •Hat/Headwear is essential. Overall Winner •Impeccable grooming and •Overall elegant statement, style deportment. and originality; racing elegance •Suitability of outfit for the Grafton July from top-to-toe. Racing Carnival. •Accessories to complement each •The winner will represent the CRJC other and overall outfit, eg. shoes, and Grafton Shoppingworld as handbag, jewellery, hosiery etc. the ‘Face of the Carnival’ in 2019, •Hat/Headwear is essential. this includes exclusive invitations •Impeccable grooming and to events, functions, photo shoots, deportment. advertising and publicity. •Suitability of outfit for the JACQUI’S SHOE BOUTIQUE Grafton July Racing Carnival. Millinery Award Contemporary Winner (Hat/Fascinator) •Fashion with an edge – a ‘standPrize will be awarded to overall winner: alone’ look! What are the judges looking for? •Being on ‘trend’, displaying this •Headwear to make the overall season’s fashion statements. statement and still complement the •Clever use of accessory outfit. co-ordination.

LOWES Best Dressed Gent Prizes awarded to winner and runner up What are the judges looking for? •Clean, well-cut suit with well-polished shoes. •Hat not essential. •Overall look should be focused on “race day” fashion rather than a business look. •It’s all about the accessories, ie. binoculars, umbrella, hat, race book etc. •Suitability of outfit for the Grafton July Racing Carnival. TELSTRA Best Dressed Couple Prize will be awarded to the overall winning couple. What are the judges looking for? •Couple that are on ‘trend’, with style and originality; •Outfits must be complementary in style and colour, displaying the latest winter fashion statements. •Clever use of accessories; •Impeccable grooming and deportment and attention to details. •Suitability of outfit for the Grafton July Racing Carnival. SUNDAY 15TH JULY – MACLEAN CUP TARGET Kids Fashions on the Field Over $1,000 in prizes to be won and every child who enters receives a prize!

Best Dressed Teen (13-17years) Prizes will be awarded to winner and runner-up. Category open to Girls & Boys between 13 and 17 years. What are the judges looking for? •Appropriate teen Fashion – a ‘standalone’ look! •Being on “trend”, displaying this season’s youth fashion statement. •Clever use of accessory coordination ie: hat or headwear, bag, shoes etc. Best Dressed Little Lady Prizes will be awarded to the winner and runner-up in each category below: Best Dressed Little Lady – 1 - 6 years Dressed Little Lady – 7 - 12 years What are the judges looking for? •Overall look, style and originality, a well coordinated child’s outfit. •Clever use of accessory coordination ie: Hat or Headwear, bag, shoes etc. Best Dressed Little Gent Prizes will be awarded to the winner and runner-up in each category below: Best Dressed Little Gent – 1 - 6 years Best Dressed Little Gent – 7 - 12 years What are the judges looking for? •Overall look, style and originality, a well coordinated child’s outfit. •Clever use of accessory coordination ie: hat or headwear, bag, shoes etc.

5 - 15 JULY 2018

ENTER TO

Win

5-15th July 2018

A 2 NIGHT GETAWAY

GRAFTON CUP CARNIVAL OVER $10,000 WORTH OF PRIZES!

Thank you to our prize sponsors: Burrito Bar Grafton, Spendless Shoes, Go Vita, Connor and Ally Fashion.

FOR DETAILS AND ENTRY CRITERIA GO TO WWW.GRAFTONSHOPPINGWORLD.COM.AU June 2018

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BRENDAN WATKINS JEWELLERS DANSK SMYKKEKUNST VERONICA NECKLET

BIRDSCAGE WRAP

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Hit List

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CARNEY’S SHOES BLACK, WHITE & BURGUNDY HEELS

BIRDSCAGE LACE DRESS

CARNEY’S SHOES SUEDE BOOTS

SWEET SISTERS BOUTIQUE DRESS, LEGGING & BOOTS

STOCKISTS • Brendan Watkins Jewellers, Yamba - 6646 3027 • Pure Hair, Yamba - 6646 9694 • Birdscage Grafton - 6642 6281, Maclean - 6645 1911, Yamba - 6646 1997 • Carney’s Shoes, Maclean - 6645 2334 • Sweet Sisters Boutique, South Grafton - 0432 581 604 • Poppy & Pears, Grafton - 0432 581 604 14

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June 2018

e l ty

Explore what is in store in the Clarence Valley

S STAND OUT AT THE RACE

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ul Jewellery, all We custom make beautif workshop, handmade in our Yamba t are distinctive, tha ns atio cre d afte dcr Han . kind a of eye catching and one ry brands elle Jew ny ma ase We also showc ose from we are and watches for you to cho a one stop shop! agement rings, Specialising in Diamond Eng ellery for any Jew ion fash or wedding bands occasion. Brendan Watkins Jewellersba 02 6646 3027 3/25 Coldstream street Yam e stor ine onl We now have an .au om rs.c blwjewelle wse our range Please come along and bro instore or online Darlene xo

CUSTOM MADE BANGLE WITH SAPPHIRES AND DIAMONDS

DANSK SMYKKEKUNST WIRE WRAP BRACELET

RACE DAY READY

The July racing carnival is a unique event and there are not many other places where you get to wear a hat. Big, small, lacy, structural, it doesn’t matter as long as you have something that pulls your outfit together and who doesn’t love the opportunity to frock up! At Southside Pharmacy we have selected a range of styles to suit different age groups and tastes. We even have matching purses to complete your look. So giddy up ladies and get your glam on at Southside Pharmacy. We look forward to seeing you strutting your stuff at the Grafton Cup! Tag us on Instagram @southside.pharmacy we’d love to see your fashions. Southside Pharmacy, Shop 4, 94 Bent St, South Grafton - 02 6642 3788. Open 7 days.

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There’s something to be said about a new outfit – it makes you feel special – and that’s just how you will feel in an outfit from Zig Zag Boutique. Because we want you to feel special, we have stocked our store with brands such as Foil, Ping Pong, Goondiwindi Cotton, Matisse plus many more. Our range of accessories include Cadelle bags, jewellery, scarves, gloves and casual hats. Yamba Souvenir clothing for men and women now incudes two seasonal weights of hoodies, a large selection of tees, plus towels and drink coolers. Whether you’re off to the races, looking for something formal or a casual outfit we are sure to have what you are looking for. Zig Zag Boutique, Shop 6/8 Yamba St, Yamba – 02 6646 2509. Jaci xx

Black on Pink

Black on Black

June 2018

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Captivating

Fashions of yesteryear From beaded 1920s gowns to the colourful jumpers of Jenny Kee, this year to coincide with the July Racing Carnival the Grafton Regional Gallery will present the exhibition Captivating Fashions of Yesteryear: Friends of The Way We Wore. This exhibition chronicles the clothing, stories and styles of several Clarence Valley women, and presents a selection of unique outfits worn by these women at significant community events such as the Jacaranda Ball and the July Racing Carnival. Some of the women whose clothing takes centre stage in this exhibition include the late Helen Pullen, renowned for her polished race wear; Heather Brown, whose wardrobe strongly features iconic Australian designers; four generations of outfits worn by women from the

late Sue Ibbottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family; ball gowns from women such as Barbara Fahey and Marea Buist, and more. The clothing in Captivating Fashions of Yesteryear is drawn from private collector Kathy Smithâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection, The Way We Wore. This collection has evolved over many years as a result of Kathyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s passion for the art and history of womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fashion. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Clothing is an important part of the Clarence Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique cultural heritage and reclaimed, pre-loved textiles tell rich stories of both the fashion itself, and the people who wore them,â&#x20AC;? says collector Kathy Smith. Captivating Fashions of Yesteryear will open at the Grafton Regional Gallery on Saturday June 2, with a celebration in the gallery courtyard from 4pm. To RSVP for attendance, please phone 6642 3177. This project is proudly supported by the New South Wales Government through Create NSW.

(above & below) Captivating Fashions of Yesteryear Exhibition, 2018. Images Contributed.

Silver and brown silk taffeta dress Handmade 1960 Worn by Ellen Mary Higham OAM The Way We Wore Collection

GRAFTON REGIONAL GALLERY 30 MAY - 22 JULY

Captivating Fashions of Yesteryear VINTAGE RACE WEAR PARADE

ICONIC AUSTRALIAN HOUSES

Thirty of the most important Australian homes built over the last 60 years are presented by Sydney Living Museums in partnership with the Architecture Foundation Australia. The design and building of the houses as well as the experiences of those who live in them reveals the emergence of a distinctively Australian approach to home design. Through photographs, illustrations, 3D motels and videos the story is told of how good design can enrich lifestyle.

Saturday 7 July 2018 $25 per ticket includes Champagne Brunch Bookings via EVENTBRITE

Join us to celebrate the history of race wear fashion at the Gallery in the lead up to the -XO\ 5DFLQJ &DUQLYDO

11am Champagne Brunch 11.45am Vintage Fashion Parade & Exhibition Talk Dress To Impress: Race Fashion

)DVKLRQV DUH RQ WKH ÂżHOG DJDLQ GXULQJ WKH 5DFLQJ &DUQLYDO in July this year. Captivating Fashions of Yesteyear celebrates the vintage fashions from The Way We Wore clothing collection. 7UHDVXUHG LWHPV RQFH ZRUQ E\ VRPH RI WKH &ODUHQFH 9DOOH\ÂśV SURPLQHQW ZRPHQ DW WKH YDOOH\ÂśV PDMRU HYHQWV VXFK DV WKH -DFDUDQGD %DOO DQG WKH -XO\ 5DFLQJ &DUQLYDO DUH RQ GLVSOD\ Green satin bodice and black taffeta skirt handmade, Simplicity pattern 1955 Worn by Audrey Morgan

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June 2018

This project is proudly supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW.

An exciting exhibition that looks beyond the physical structures to shine a light on the stories of the architects and clients. The result is an intimate portrait of the design, building and lived experience of that most elusive of creations â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the iconic house.

The Wardle House, architect John Wardle, photograph ÂŠ Michael Wee This project has been assisted by the Australian Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Visions of Australia program.

Travelling exhibition from Exhibition partner This project has been assisted by the Australian Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Visions of Australia program

Principal partner

Supporting partners

s u n i Jo

for the Coffs Coasts’ most prestigious race event of the year! Join the avid racegoers, the fashion-forward, and the punters, as they gather at Coffs Harbour's race grounds for the race day event of the year! The Carlton Draught Coffs Harbour Cup is a wonderful opportunity to socialise, entertain and celebrate the sport of horse racing. Now in its 54th year, the Coffs Cup has grown to be an iconic part of the Mid North Coast events calendar, with trainers and jockeys travelling from far and wide to compete for the prestigious Gold Cup. And with more to see, more to do, and more fun to be had this designated public holiday on the Coffs Coast, it’s no wonder racegoers flock from miles around, with some 6,000+ crowd each year. With an eight race TAB program, large on track screen, centrally located bars and delicious food options provided by our newly appointed caterer, The Cater Group, the day will certainly not disappoint. With a variety of hospitality

packages available, there’s ilab ble e, th ther ere’ es an option to suit all racegoers preferences. Wine and dine in the various hospitality events, play host at Corporate Marquee, be pampered in the Coffs Coast Jaguar VIP Cocktail Party, kick back at the popular Lawn Party precinct,, enjoy affair e joy a lavish a s a a in the Gold old Luncheon or revel in General al Admission with the bubbly crowds. The fashions shions are certainly not to be e missed, with the large e crowds dressing to impress. The Park Beach Plaza aza ‘Fashionss on the Field’’ is a hotly contested d event with th multiple entry categories es and thousands ds of dollarss in prizes to share in; they are always ys worth a look ook in. Don’t miss your chance ance to experience ience

Carlton Coffs Ca C rlton Draught Draugh g t 2018 2018 C o fs of Harbour Cup for yourself on Thursday, 2nd August 2018. For ticketing and hospitality enquiries or to purchase online please visit www.coffsracingclub.com.au, call the club phone (02)) 665 6652 1488 or e email: (0 88 o a : events@coffsracingclub.com.au

Images: Coffs Harbour Racing Club

COFFS HARBOUR RACING CLUB

June 2018

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A world first for Now in its seventh year, the groundbreaking Magic Millions Racing Women initiative is not only promoting racehorse ownership amongst females – it is increasing it. Established by Magic Millions owners Katie PageHarvey and Gerry Harvey, the Racing Women’s Bonus of $500,000 which is on offer to the first four all-female owned or leased horses in finishing order in the Magic Millions 2YO Classic, is in addition to race prizemoney of $2,000,000. A key aim of the initiative is to highlight and promote the important roles played by women in the thoroughbred racing and breeding industry. Over the first six years, the Racing Women concept generated well over 800 registrations for two-year-old thoroughbred racehorses wholly owned or leased by women with the ambition to race for the Bonus. Over 50% of 2018 registrations received contained first time owners, representing two-year-olds trained by 87 individual trainers across four states of Australia plus New Zealand. In 2012 Zara Phillips MBE was announced as the inaugural Magic Millions Racing Women Ambassador and attended the 2013 Carnival to present the prize to the connections of Magic Millions’ first Racing Women’s Bonus winner in Real Surreal. The secondeldest grandchild of Queen Elizabeth II, Zara won a silver medal at the 2012 London Olympics as a member of the Great Britain Eventing Team. Since 2015 Zara has returned each year as the Patron of Magic Millions Racing Women, and in

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conjunction with Katie Page-Harvey, has proudly made the presentation to the Racing Women’s Bonus winners at each of the Magic Millions Racedays. Whether you’re new into the horse-owning game or already a horse owner you could win BIG, just like the lucky female connections of Sunlight who collected $1,525,000 for winning the 2018 Magic Millions 2YO Classic at the Gold Coast in January plus first place in the Racing Women’s Bonus. Incredibly this is the second time in the short history of the Racing Women’s Bonus, that the winner of the 2YO Classic was also a Racing Women’s Bonus eligible horse. Real Surreal created history when she won the 2013 edition of the Magic Millions 2YO Classic and was the inaugural Racing Women’s Bonus winner for her all female connections. Payment of the $500,000 is guaranteed. Should less than four Bonus eligible horses make the starting field of the $2,000,000 Magic Millions 2YO Classic, the portion of the Bonus not won will be distributed proportionately amongst the eligible horses who complete the race. Entrants must be an eligible Magic Millions Yearling Sale graduate and be nominated for the Magic Millions Race Series as the Bonus forms part of the Magic Millions Race Series. The horse must also be 100% owned or leased by females at all times prior to and including the Magic Millions 2YO Classic. The next Magic Millions Yearling Sale will be held at the Gold Coast on 9-15 January 2019, and those yearlings will be eligible to be nominated for the 2020 edition of the $11 million plus Magic Millions Race Series including the Racing Women’s Bonus.

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top things to do after the races gallery visit Once you’ve experienced all you can at the July Racing Carnival, a visit to the Clarence Valley’s undoubted hub of fine art - The Grafton Regional Gallery - is a must. Unassuming from the street, ‘Prentice House’ (the heritage building that contains the gallery) is an artpiece in itself. There are distinct exhibition spaces, and a sublime enclosed courtyard with a very large and beautiful tree right in the middle. 158 Fitzroy Street Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm

BRIDGE WALK Sure, you can do the Sydney Harbour Bridge Walk, but the Sydney Harbour Bridge doesn’t change direction on a jaunty angle halfway along now does it? This makes the Grafton Bridge Walk clearly superior to its Sydney imitator. When strolling across the footbridge of the famous bendy bridge, you’ll not only see the might of the Clarence River first hand, you’ll even have the chance to be

up close and personal to a passing train, as the tracks run parallel to the walkway. And that strange thing in the water, at the south-west end? … It’s a shipwreck! Here lie the remains of the Induna, which served as a rail-ferry before the bridge was completed in 1932. Once Induna’s services were no longer required, it sank of a broken heart. (Actually that’s not entirely true.) Access the footbridge off Fitzroy or Greaves St Grafton or Bridge Lane South Grafton

HANG OUT AT THE COOL SIDE OF TOWN A little bit vintage, authentically retro, South Grafton’s main street, Skinner Street, has a quirky, interesting vibe. Eclectic cafés, recycled clothing stores mix with rural supply providers. Colourful murals and arty street blisters reflect local Gumbaingirr history and culture. The boulevard right by the river marina provides shady trees, picnic

facilities and BBQs. And you may be lucky enough to see a play or local musician at the Pelican Playhouse. Skinner Street South Grafton

EAT AND DRINK Being creatures of pleasure, there’s nothing like a good feed. Rest assured that here in the Clarence Valley there are myriad epic places to eat, drink and relax. We won’t start to name names because, well, where do you draw the line? We guarantee you’ll definitely get a top class coffee while you’re here, great seafood because the coast is only a hop, skip and jump away, and all your dietary requirements will be catered for.

Enjoy a bit of Scotland You don’t have to be Scottish, or even like the sound of the bagpipes, but if you want to see all things Scottish, then a visit to Maclean is a must. Maclean proudly displays The Scottish Clan tartans throughout

the town and a Scottish Cairn is positioned in Stanford Park, made from stones obtained from parts of Scotland, from Scottish families throughout Australia and locally. Many of the place and street signs around Maclean have dual signs in English and Gaelic, eg Pairc Mhic - Lachlainn (McLachan Park) and Sraid Earra Ghaidhea (Argyle Street) how’s your pronunciation?

Feast on a prawn Escape to the coast and be captivated by the relaxed charm and character of the coastal villages of Yamba and Iluka. Famous for the ‘Yamba Prawn’, Yamba is fast becoming a popular destination for its boutique mix of shops, coffee shops and cafés. Wander through the idyllic village of Iluka or treat yourself to a beach picnic (sand is optional). Take a walk through the world heritage listed national park or throw in a line on the breakwall - you never know what you might catch!

enjoy some local hospitality and some great food

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Tea on the Terrace June 2018

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Glynda at the helm. Image: Lynne Mowbray

Life

on a

yacht

and the accident that almost ended it For Glynda ‘boatgirl’ McNaught, home for the last two years has been a yacht on the Clarence River. Lynne Mowbray spent time with the ‘boatgirl’ recently, to find out what inspired her to move from land to water. Her story, however, has not been all smooth sailing as she fights to regain her life after a terrifying accident.

lynda said that she grew up in NSW before moving to QLD with her family, when she was 11. “My parents were very adventurous and I was raised exploring caves, mountain climbing and camping,” Glynda said. “My first introduction to sailing came in 2011, while I was living in Grafton where I worked as a casual correctional officer, at Grafton gaol. “My brother, who lived in north Queensland and had owned a yacht for seven years, rang me and asked me if I’d like to go sailing with 20

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June 2018

him for 10 days, from Airlie Beach to Cairns. “I’d always been fascinated with boats and as I was working as a casual at the time, I was able to do it and I jumped at the opportunity. ‘Whatever I learnt in those 10 days was all I knew when I bought my boat six months later. ‘I was totally besotted with the whole experience of being out on the ocean, just going slow. “Being this little dot in the ocean; in one way, your world’s so tiny and in other ways it’s really big”. “I loved the remoteness of the

open space and although I’m a real people person and love people; I also love space around me as well. Glynda said that before her move to Grafton in 2010, she had lived on a station at King River in the Northern Territory in 2005, and in 2006 she began working for in administration for correctional services at Glen Innes. “After the downsizing of Grafton gaol in 2012, I transferred away for work and lived on my boat for a while at South West Rocks. “I got permanent work at Muswellbrook for a while before I

eventually got a transfer back to Grafton gaol when they restored it back to full capacity late in 2015.” Since being back in the Clarence Valley, Glynda said that she has enjoyed living on her boat, which is usually moored at Maclean. ‘I’ve spent times at different spots on the river; Maclean, Brushgrove, Ulmarra and Grafton, and I just move my car up to wherever I’m staying at the time,’ she said. “I love it when I wake up in the morning and I can see 360 degrees; from sunrise to sunset – I’m just addicted to it.”

Glynda’s idyllic lifestyle quickly changed tack however, after a serious accident in January this year. “My son had flown down from the NT where he was living with his twin brother, helping him to raise his kids. He came down here for a bit of a break for a while and he’d picked up a painting job, up near Glen Innes. “On January 11, I had dropped him off at his job and was returning home from Glen Innes. It had been a stinking hot day and there had been an afternoon storm. “It was just on dark and I was going round a sweeping bend near Ramornie on the Gwydir Highway, when my car slid out on water. From what the tow truck driver and the doctors said and from how it felt, I ‘end for ended’ the car. “I’ve been in car accidents before, but this accident was one of the most intense experiences of my life. I was totally convinced at the beginning of it that I was going to be dead at the end of it. “You’d think that you’d be swearing or whatever, but all I remember saying over and over again was, ‘Jesus help me’. “It wasn’t like I was asking him to help me to live; I was asking him to help me get through the dying process, because that’s how convinced I was, that this was the end. “When the car finally came to a stop, I grabbed the cord of my phone, as I had it on the charger, and eased it up to me, slowly. I could smell fuel, so I had to get out of the car. “I couldn’t get out of my door, so I scrambled over and got out of the passenger side door. As soon as I got out of the car, my

Lic. No. MVRL 7951

“Being this little dot in the ocean; in one way, you’re world’s so tiny and in other ways it’s really big”. back was in intense pain. “A nearby farmer had heard the crash and came over to me, and by the time he reached me I had already called 000 and was talking to the ambulance. “After being admitted to hospital in Grafton, I had a CT scan and x-ray of my neck and back. “They told me that I had a couple of broken bones in my back and I had to stay lying on my back until they could get me in for an MRI, which was about five days later. It showed that I had two fractures; T12 and T4 – so I had 25 per-cent compression in each of them. “I spent two weeks in Grafton hospital and another week in Maclean hospital. During those two weeks in Grafton I hadn’t seen the sky and during the transfer to Maclean I just couldn’t

take my eyes off the sky, which I’d longed to see. “I had a lot to contemplate, as I waited for my MRI, not knowing if the injury to my back was impinging on my spinal cord. “They reckon that I was about a millimetre away from being a paraplegic. “Prior to the accident, I had started putting up posts on my Facebook, to share my sailing experiences and fun with my friends; but while I was in hospital, I realised how much it meant, to someone who couldn’t do those things. “I kept thinking, ‘I’m so glad that I’ve done all these things, because if I can’t do it again, at least I’ve got all these wonderful memories’. “Those memories kept popping back up on my Facebook, saying ‘a year ago today’ and there I’d

be, sailing somewhere.” Glynda drew strength from her posts, which spurred her determination to get back on her boat and create more memories. “Four weeks after the accident I was back on my boat, with the support of my son, who had to drive me everywhere and carry everything for me. “While I was still in hospital, I decided to get another car because I loved my car and I was just very positively focused on the fact that I was going to get better. My doctor told me that I was actually giving myself immersion therapy – immersing myself in the very thing that had hurt me. “The car, which I found online, was in Perth and it worked out because I had friends in Perth that I wanted to catch up with; and I’ve always wanted to cross

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Glynda Parfitt Photography – copyright - Life on the Clarence River. [sunrises, sunsets and fog]

the Nullarbor; it was on my ‘bucket list’. “I wanted to get the same model car again, which was a 2006 Ford XR6, toxic green, my favourite colour. I’d had it for 10 years and bought it with 31,000 kilometres on it and I crashed it at 445,000 kilometres. It was the most comfortable car to drive. I ended up buying a ute, the same colour and same year, and got a friend of mine in Perth to take it to the mechanic and get it checked out. “I had to wear this big plastic back brace continually for six weeks and so I booked my flight to Perth on the first day that I didn’t have to wear it any longer. I still wore it on the plane though and on a few other occasions if my back started hurting. “I spent 10 days in Perth taking it easy before I drove back via South Australia and Victoria, to see my grandchildren, whom I hadn’t seen for over three years. All up, it was three weeks exactly from the day I left to the day I arrived back home. “I had a mattress in the back of the ute and I was able to lie down if the pain in my back got too bad.” Back on the river in her boat once

again, Glynda is still suffering the physical and psychological effects, from her accident. “I still have to have others helping me to tie up the boat and I can’t sail by myself yet. I have to take pain killers daily and I thought that by now I’d be further along than I am, but I just have to be patient with life. I can’t run and I’m uncomfortable sitting in a chair. “I still have issues to deal with when I’m driving – especially in the rain. I have a few panic attacks, I guess, but the worst thing is that I keep reliving the feeling of losing control and that’s not pleasant some times. Driving at night or in the rain is actually worse, especially on corners. I’m better driving myself than being a passenger. “But I’m back on the boat and I’m slowly clawing my way back to where I was before.” Glynda remains positive and determined to reach her goals. ‘If money wasn’t an option and I had an offsider, I’d be sailing around the world by now. “I’ve also had offers to crew in the Mediterranean. “I’d also like to be the first lady to

SICYC [Shag Islet Cruising Yacht Club] Vice Commodore Glynda McNaught [centre] was the only female skipper taking part in the Inaugural SICYC Clarence River Classic in May this year. IMAGE: Lynne Mowbray

circumnavigate Australia solo and if I’m going to do something like that, I’d like to raise money for a charity or worthwhile cause like Destiny Rescue – a group in Asia who rescues young girls from child trafficking and sexual exploitation and slavery.” The solo yachtie said that at times she gets lonely living by herself. “Yeah, I still get lonely on my boat, but I figure if you’re going to be lonely, be lonely on a boat. It’s actually not as lonely on a boat as it can be in a house.

Hamilton Simmons & Co

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Fax: (02) 6645 4666

“I’m not totally alone, however; my two cats Missy and Milly also love life on the boat.” Glynda is looking forward to hopefully returning to work in July; a job she really loves. Until then, she continues to post her many beautiful photos and videos of life on the river on her Facebook. But if there is one message that Glynda feels a need to share, that message would be: ‘Don’t wait – start doing what you want, as soon as you can.’

email@hamiltonsimmons.com.au

What do the Clarence Regional Libraries offer our Book Clubs? Get connected by your library’s Be Connected program

• Your library has stacks of book club kits which consist of 10 books and can be borrowed by book clubs for up to 6 weeks. • Book club gatherings and author visits are held often at your libraries and regular news and information will be sent to the clubs nominated contact person. • We provide extended loan periods to Book Clubs.

Be Connected is an Australia wide initiative empowering all Australians to thrive in a digital world. We have online learning resources as well as a Network of community partners - the Be Connected Network - who offer in-library support so you can develop your digital skills and confidence. Get connected at your local library for friendly help and advice.

Get social with us

your library – your place, Clarence Valley Libraries

Search your library for books, movies and more. And once you’ve found what you are looking for, you can save or reserve the items. Use the Spydus Library Mobile app ‘discover’ features to view suggested reading lists, new arrivals lists, and personalised recommendations. It’s your library in the palm of your hand. You can download the new Spydus app free onto your mobile devices from Google Play & iTunes by using the search word “Spydus”.

Keep the library in the palm of your hand

Once you have downloaded the app: 1. You will need to select ‘Clarence Regional Library’ from the list of libraries

2. Click on the Login button to enter your Borrower ID, Password/PIN 3. Select your branch library. Key features: • Search for items, and reserve the ones that interest you • View your loans, reservations, and payments • Update your personal details • Manage multiple library memberships • Save lists of favourite items for later • “Discover” – reading lists, featured items, recommendations for you • Use your camera to scan an ISBN in a bookstore to check if the library has copies

What’s on at your library - come and join in... Knit Wits: Bring your squares into the library, or come knit and chat to be included in the Wrap With Love Blankets. wrapwithlove.org Iluka – first Friday of the month – 10am-12noon Yamba – second Tuesday of the month – 10am-12noon Maclean – third Tuesday of the month – 10am-12noon Grafton – first and third Tuesday of the month 2-3pm

Our tablets are waiting to be borrowed by you... Your library now has free tablets for lending! The tablets are preloaded with apps to make it as easy as pie to explore your library’s eContent. Want to know more or snap up a reservation? Chat to our friendly staff or visit our website.

BorrowBox is here @ your library! BorrowBox is your go to place for your library’s ebooks & eAudiobooks! BorrowBox can be downloaded to your phone, computer or tablet from Apple iTunes or Google Play Store.

Family history research: Clarence Regional Library has a range of genealogy resources to assist you with your family history research, such as ancestery.com and findmypast.com.au. Both Ancestry and Find my Past databases are only accessible in the library (this including WiFi access).

CALL TO BOOK

JUST DROP IN

FREE SERVICE

JUST DROP IN

C l a re n ce Va l l ey L i b ra r i e s | re g l i b n @ c r l. n s w. g ov. a u | ( 0 2 ) 6 6 4 1 0 1 1 1 | w w w. c r l. n s w. g ov. a u June 2018

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Master the art of

low ‘n’ slow cooking this winter Create easy and delicious slow cooked dishes at home with Australian Beef Slow cooker season is here! Low ‘n’ slow cooking is an easy way to create deliciously tender beef meals - the perfect comfort food as the weather cools. Whether cooking for a dinner party or meal prepping for the week ahead, this is one trend that will save you time whilst adding heavenly meals to your weekly repertoire. Using a slow cooker is great for anyone who is time poor as the dishes can be cooked overnight or during the working day, and generally require little preparation time. Slow cooking also ensures your meat is tender and juicy every time.

Spicy black bean and smoked paprika braised chuck Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 4-8 hours Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS 600g chuck steak, diced 1 onion sliced 2 bay leaves 3 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes 4 cloves garlic, chopped 1 cup beef stock 400g tin diced tomatoes 400g tin black beans, drained Soft tortillas, tomato salsa, coriander leaves and sour cream (optional), to serve METHOD 1. Place meat into a slow cooker and add the onion, bay leaves, smoked paprika, chilli flakes, garlic, stock and tomatoes. 2. Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours and 4 hours on high heat, or until the meat is tender.

From conception to consumption only the best will do

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3. Add the black beans and cook, covered, for a further 15 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with soft tortillas, tomato salsa, coriander leaves and sour cream (optional). COOKING TIPS • For beef and bean nachos, spread a layer of corn chips in a shallow baking dish. Top with the leftover stew, shredding the meat if necessary. Top with some more corn chips and sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake until hot and bubbly and serve with guacamole, sour cream and pickled jalapeno chillies. • For a less spicy version, try 1/4 tsp dried chilli flakes or simply leave the chilli out. • Tinned black beans are often found in the Mexican food section of your supermarket, rather than with the other tinned beans.

IDAY COAS L T HO Holiday Coast Meat & Smallgoods sells an excellent range of fresh, quality produce to local customers We sell delicious organic and grass fed yearling beef, as well as lamb, pork, bacon, ham, chicken and much more

Find us on

11 Mackay St, South Grafton Ph: 6642 7973

Osso Buco ragu

Beef, spinach and cashew Korma curry

Preparation: 15 minutes Cooking: 4-8 hours Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS 1kg osso buco (beef shin) 1/2 cup red wine 250ml salt reduced beef stock 1 cup passata 1 head garlic, halved 2 carrots, peeled, 1cm diced 2 swedes, peeled, 1.5cm diced 4 sprigs thyme 500g store bought potato gnocchi 300g green & white beans 1/2 cup Sicilian olives Parmesan cheese, chopped flat leaf parsley, to serve METHOD 1. Place osso buco on a plate and pat dry with paper towel. Sprinkle with cracked black pepper and place into the slow cooker. Add wine, stock, passata, garlic, carrots, swedes and thyme. Cook on low for 8-10 hours and high heat for 4 hours,

adding more stock if necessary 2. Remove meat to a chopping board and chop or shred meat. Mash marrow and return meat and marrow to the sauce. Mash garlic into the sauce and discard skins. 3. Heat a pot of boiling water and cook gnocchi until they float to the surface. Remove gnocchi with a slotted spoon and drain. Return water to the boil and cook beans in the same pot for 2-3 minutes or until tender. 4. Toss drained gnocchi through sauce and stir in olives and parsley if using. Check seasoning and serve with parmesan. COOKING TIPS • Try with beef blade steak on the bone or oxtail. • If you don’t want to use red wine, substitute for 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar or lemon juice and 1/2 cup water. • Add one long red chilli or one dried chilli for a warm spicy flavour.

Preparation: 20 minutes Cooking: 4-8 hours Serves: 4 INGREDIENTS 800g oyster blade steaks, fat trimmed, diced into 2cm pieces 2 red onions, cut into thin wedges 1 1/2 tbsp Korma Indian curry paste 400g tin chopped tomatoes 300g peeled pumpkin, cut into 2cm dice 50g cashew nuts, finely chopped 1 bunch English spinach, trimmed, leaves shredded 60ml (1/4 cup) natural yoghurt, plus extra to serve 1 tbsp lime juice 1 tsp brown suger 1 cup steamed basmati race and chopped coriander, to serve METHOD 1. Place beef in a slow cooker, add onion, curry paste, tomatoes and 180ml (1 cup) water and cook for 8-10 hours on low heat or 4 hours

on high heat. 2. Add pumpkin and cashew nuts in the last 30 minutes until the beef is tender. Stir through the spinach, yoghurt, lime juice and sugar. 3. Serve curry with steamed rice and garnish with coriander. COOKING TIPS • This curry is suitable to freeze. Place in airtight containers, set aside to cool, then cover and freeze.

Low ‘n’ slow cooking is as limitless as your imagination. All you need to do is set, forget and serve! Voila!

Maclean The best quality Fruit & veg in the Clarence Valley! Seasonal local produce is cheaper, fresher, more nutritious & tastes better

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4 River Street Maclean 6645 2002 June 2018

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The

The world’s oldest car-maker is understandably excited about the introduction of the new MercedesBenz X-Class dual-cab ute. Enter the X 220d and X 250d - the first Mercedes-Benz models to enter a bustling market segment that in 2017 attracted almost 160,000 sales in Australia – or 17 per cent of the overall market. With X 220d and X 250d, Mercedes Benz enters the ladder-frame, one-tonne ute segment with a first-class luxury ute, bringing with it the style and quality that Mercedes Benz are renowned for. A large body with stylish headlights and tail-lights, wide wheel tracks, new infotainment system, updated safety equipment, elegant and functional dashboard and comfortable, supportive seats give the X-Class a distinctly ‘Mercedes-Benz’ character. Much of the three-variant Mercedes-Benz X-Class range is customisable with a range of trim and paint options to suit any buyer type. It has endeavoured to address the needs of any buyer with the option of a single or dual turbo charged powerful common-rail, direct injection engines, each with a cubic capacity of 2.3 litres, and power outputs of 120 kW and 140 kW respectively, each at 3750 rpm. The common-rail injection system with piezo injectors and a system pressure of up to 2000 bar ensures accurately regulated combustion processes. Both engines feature intercooling and develop maximum torque of 403 and 450 Nm at rpm as low as 1500. 26

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June 2018

Factor Two transmission options are offered. The 6-speed manual transmission impresses with precise shift travel and smooth changes. The optional 7-speed automatic transmission can perform multiple downshifts, allowing for comfortable and fuel-efficient driving at low engine speeds, and fast powerful sprints. Three unique trim grades make up the range – PURE, PROGRESSIVE and POWER. The rear-wheel drive, 6 speed manual-only X 220d heads the X-Class range with 1067kg of payload from its largest-in-class tray (1581mm long, 1560mm wide), and a braked towing capacity of 3500kg (plus a 350kg tow ball down-weight). Like all Mercedes-Benz X-Class variants, it is equipped with seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking (AEB), tyre pressure monitoring and lane keeping assist. All this topped up with a five star ANCAP safety rating including outboard i-Size/ISOFIX child seat anchorages. The range steps up to the PROGRESSIVE trim grade in conjunction with a twin-turbocharged version of the same 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine. Body-coloured bumpers and 17-inch alloy wheels differentiate the model outwardly, as an extensive equipment upgrade does inside. The Mercedes-Benz X-Class range is topped, for now, by the X 250d POWER grade that brings chrome bumpers and garnishes to the exterior, 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights and taillights as standard. The top-shelf model also scores electricallyadjustable man-made leather and suedetrimmed seats, a leather-topped instrument binnacle, climate-control, keyless entry/start and

360-degree camera. The strong equipment list is topped by Mercedes-Benz’s 8.4-inch COMAND on-line multimedia system with navigation and touchpad, plus the PARKTRONIC parking assistant and digital radio. Warranty: The X Class boasts 3yrs / 200,000km warranty (whichever occurs first), 3yrs 24hour roadside assistance and a 3yr / 60,000km capped price service plan. (Service intervals are 12months / 20,000km). Up-front capped-price servicing is available for three years as part of Mercedes-Benz Van’s Service Care Promise.

Test Drive the All New Mercedes Benz X Class today at Mercedes Benz Coffs Coast. Call 6648 3505.

Pricing (Plus GST & On Roads) X220d Pure RWD Cab Chassis manual - $45,450 X220d Pure RWD Load Bed manual - $46,400 X220d Pure 4WD Load Bed manual - $50,400 X250d Pure 4WD Cab Chassis manual - $51,540 X250d Pure 4WD Cab Chassis auto - $54,350 X250d Pure 4WD Load Bed manual - $52,400 X250d Pure 4WD Load Bed auto - $55,300 X250d Progressive Cab Chassis manual - $53,950 X250d Progressive Cab Chassis auto - $56,850 X250d Progressive Load Bed manual - $54,900 X250d Progressive Load Bed auto - $57,800 X250d Power Load Bed manual - $61,600 X250d Power Load Bed auto - $64,500

VAST INTERIOR is known for is quality solid hard wood timber dining ranges. Here are my tips to help you find the perfect table to sit at the heart of your home.

Your dining table will become the focal point for your family and friends, its used for everything from a place for the family dinner, dinner parties with friends, a place for homework and a place for fun and games, it really is the centrepiece of your home. Our Vast Interior tables are hand crafted, use sustainable or recycled timbers and are strong and will last generations to be passed on as a family heirloom. Shape: With most dining areas being rectangular a rectangular dining table is the most popular and classic shape that we sell with proven functionality. It’s not just the length you need to think about but also the width as the wider you go the further away you are from your dinner guests. However, with a wider table it does allow you to

easily place platters and bottles of wine down the centre of the table when entertaining... Round and oval tables mean no-one has to sit at the end and offers a more social dining experience with everyone being able to see each other. Visually, they offer softer lines and come into their own in smaller rooms as they take up less space and they don’t break up the flow. A square table can be an option to get the best of both worlds, however they (along with your larger round tables) take up more space than people think so you definitely need to measure up your area to see if you have the room. A square can be a great option to fill up a large room and are also great for dinner conversations. Size: It doesn’t matter if you have always wanted a large refectory table for your large family gatherings as sometimes

that’s just not going to work in the space you have. The table size and shape you need, needs to be based on the size of the room it is going to call home. You also need to allow for your chairs to be pushed back and for people to easily move around the room without having to suck in their breath. I’d suggest a minimum of 90 to 100cm from the back of your chairs when pulled out to the walls or any other large furniture pieces or doorways. Material: If you’re looking for something that will stand the test of time, hardwood is the best option. Engineered timber or MDF or soft timbers like pine will be cheaper and won’t fall apart overnight, but they’ll never be as strong as our hardwood mango. I also love salvaged and recycled timbers in a family home, as it can take kids doing homework and craft or the keys being thrown on it

and over time any marks will add character to the timber and tell a story that becomes a part of your family history. Our goal at VAST is to help you bring home a table that will fit into your space and have a style that you’ll love for years to come.

Coffs Harbour Store 153 Orlando Street | (02) 6652 1111 Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm | Sat 9am - 4pm | Sun 10am - 2pm www.vastinterior.com.au /VastInteriorCoffsHarbour /VastInterior

June 2018

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The team you can trust Learn more about solar power systems for your house or commercial property by talking to the team at SolarWorx All their solar power systems include solar panels, inverter and full installation. Pairing the right panel with the right inverter create stop-

range, technologically advanced systems. We will recommend the best system for you and then give you a personalized quote. Adding to your existing solar? They can design an upgrade for you and finance is also available.

Here’s what some of their customers have to say:

The Shop is turning ONE in July!!!

Thanks to the great support from our wonderful customers we are excited to be heading into our second big year!! The Shop is full to the brim….

“We just want to say how happy we are with our system bought from you. We are already noticing a big difference in power costs; we have been in credit with our bills since the installation. It was great how you helped us organise the higher tariff with our energy company. Thanks.” Tony and Louise, Casino

“We are so grateful to Jaye for being the generous, thoughtful professional that she is. We were having to communicate from Sydney regarding the solar installation on our new home in Gulmarrad, and every step of the way Jaye kept us informed of how the work was progressing, even sending through photos. She answered every question we had, and offered (and delivered) continued ongoing, friendly support. All the work done by her team was prompt, professional and with attention to detail. All in all, the service was outstanding and we are more than happy to recommend Jaye and the rest of the excellent Solarworx team.” Julie and Mauricio, Gulmarrad

We have increased our fabulous range of homewares, everlasting floral, artwork, mirror, clocks, rugs, patio settings & décor, wall art, games, ….the list goes on! The Shop is a stockist of Woodwick candle range. Our next big venture is offering you an exciting range of garden pots, statues, water features, cast iron garden décor, and much more…. Opening Soon!! Be sure to come and check us out. If you haven’t visited us yet – isn’t it time you did? We would love to welcome you. Remember, we stay open Saturdays until 3pm.

The Shop

172 Ryan Street South Grafton 0439 572 408

TALK TO ONE OF OUR LOCAL TEAM MEMBERS TODAY 02 6646 3140 or 133 326 info@solarworx.com.au www.solarworx.com.au

CALL TODAY for an appointment

SolarWorx NR

TRADING HOURS: TUES- FRI 9am - 5pm SAT 9am - 3pm

theshopsouthgrafton • 28

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June 2018

EFTPOS & LAYBY WELCOME

SOLARWORX - NORTHERN RIVERS LOCAL FOR OVER 10 YEARS

Need a good nights sleep? Avante Australia is a wholesaler of bedding and furniture products for the retail bedding, commercial, recreational leisure and mobility markets, as well as boarding schools. With over 50 years combined industry experience, the team of professionals are passionate about what they do and committed to providing customers with excellent service and high quality products. Their range has been in production since 2008 and includes mattresses, furniture and adjustable electric beds. They supply over 350 different bedding products to over 300 customers Australia wide, as well as actively supporting Australian small businesses. At Avante all of their products are Australian owned and designed specifically for the needs and requirements of Australians of all shapes and sizes. Why choose an Avante mattress? • Avante Australia does not use any polyester fillers when designing our mattresses. Polyester fillers are the leading cause of excessive body impressions. • All Avante Australia’s mattresses include double heat tempered spring units and all comfort layers are flanged and glued into place for longevity and superior comfort. • Only the best materials are used during production which allows Avante Australia to design mattresses that only require rotation

Still having trouble?

instead of flipping the entire mattress. • Avante Australia only uses solid foams over convoluted foams in all of our mattresses. Convoluted foams are luxurious at first but can break down quickly leading to excessive body impressions. • All non-adjustable mattresses include a heavy duty 5mm border wire edge support to prevent the edge of the mattress from collapsing and for an extended life. This also allows use of the entire surface of the mattress without that “fall out” feeling at the edge of the mattress. • Avante Australia use compressed insulated pads over loosely woven pads to protect our comfort layers from being worm by the springs. This protects our comfort layers for longer. Comfort range Made for comfort on a budget; these mattresses offer fantastic value for money while still being exceptionally comfortable and supportive. Comfort ranges are covered by guarantees of up to 5 years. Riverside Bargains Grafton is very proud to offer a wide range of Avante mattresses and delivers to all parts of the Clarence Valley and beyond. They purchase the mattresses in bulk, providing customers with lower than retail prices on their Dreamtime, Serenity, Pocket Duo and Spinal Care range. Come in and see the range for yourself at 117 Fitzroy Street, Grafton.

SPINAL CARE

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Try these tips from the national sleep foundation to improve your sleep health: 1. Stick to the same bedtime and wake up time, even on the weekends. This helps to regulate your body's clock and could help you fall asleep and stay asleep for the night. 2. Practice a relaxing bedtime ritual. A relaxing, routine activity right before bedtime conducted away from bright lights helps separate your sleep time. 3. Avoid naps, especially in the afternoon. 4. Exercise daily. 5. Evaluate your room. Your bedroom should be cool, free from any noise and free from any light. 6. Sleep on a comfortable mattress and pillows. 7. Use bright light to help manage your circadian rhythms. 8. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes, and heavy meals in the evening. 9. Wind down. Your body needs time to shift into sleep mode, so spend the last hour before bed doing a calming activity such as reading. Using an electronic device such as a laptop can make it hard to fall asleep. If you have trouble sleeping, avoid electronics before bed or in the middle of the night. 10. If you can't sleep, go into another room and do something relaxing until you feel tired.

155 $ 239 $ 249

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POCKET DUO PRICES

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June 2018

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Why you should Straight teeth with no braces? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s possible make your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oral hygiene a top priority with Invisalign

Celtic Coastal Hearing Servicesâ&#x20AC;Ś Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all excited about ears! As part of our patient centred focus weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been out and about in Clarence Valley asking â&#x20AC;&#x153;What do you want and need from your hearing care provider?â&#x20AC;? People have reflected on their own previous hearing experiences and here are the top four: 1. I want to matter, not just another person in the queueâ&#x20AC;?: At Celtic Coastal Hearing we value the time spent with our patients, hearing your unique stories and listening to your needs. 2. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I see a different hearing person every time; I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like they know meâ&#x20AC;?: With us you are assured of seeing Caitriona at every consult allowing your hearing journey to progress naturally in a friendly environment. 3. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My families were not encouraged to participateâ&#x20AC;?: Being family owned means we love to involve familyâ&#x20AC;ŚThe more the merrier! 4. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was told what I needed with no options or choiceâ&#x20AC;?: We offer ALL brands and models of hearing aids to both pensioner and self- funded patients. Our advice is open, honest and the rest is up to you! Whilst hearing aid technology is assumed, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the care and attention that people value most. So, if you wish to benefit from hearing care that is as individual as you are, let Celtic Coastal Hearing Services take care of you and your needs. If you have any thoughts or ideas about what you want for your hearing care please give us a call (02) 5617 6653 or better still call in for a chat!

Hearing care as individual as you are! Deafness is a common problem for any age. If you experience GLIĂ&#x20AC;FXOWLHV FRPPXQLFDWLQJ \RX PD\ QHHG WR FKHFN \RXU KHDULQJ &HOWLF &RDVWDO LV RIIHULQJ GLVFRXQWV RQ VHOHFWHG KHDULQJ GHYLFHV Free hearing check & Free Trial of the latest hearing aids. 7DNH DGYDQWDJH RI WKLV RIIHU DQG UHFHLYH D

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Specialist Orthodontist BDS, FDSRCS (Eng), MDSc (Ortho), MRACDS (Orth), Phd

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Dr Armstrong lives in Coffs Harbour and provides Specialist Orthodontic care for Children and Adults at Blue Wave Orthodontics, Suite 4, 1 Park Avenue

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ÂŠCVI

Tel: 02 5617 6653

For Further information contact Dr. David Armstrong at Fresh Dental on 6643 2225

Encouraging and developing good oral hygiene from an early age has benefits for your child that will last a lifetime. Tooth decay in children is preventable however it is the leading chronic disease in childhood. The first two years of a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life set the foundation for oral health and follows them through their teenage years and to adulthood. Severity of dental issues in adults has close links to childhood carries rate and oral hygiene. Dental caries in deciduous teeth can severely impact on the permanent dentition. Parents play an extremely important role in preventing tooth decay for their children. Parents should assist and supervise the brushing of teeth twice a day until the age of eight (with an age appropriate fluoride tooth paste from 18 months), limit sugary foods and drinks and ensure children have a regular oral health check. From the age of three it is recommended children visit an oral health professional, and when accidents happen, dental trauma should be assessed to minimise or prevent further complications. At Fitzroy Street Dental, we welcome and encourage any child oral hygiene enquiries or concerns you may have. We also encourage families that are eligible for the Child Dental Benefit Scheme provided through Medicare to take advantage of this initiative and book your child in today. If you have any questions regarding the Child Dental Benefit Scheme and your eligibility, please contact our clinic on 6642 5211.

Dr David Armstrong

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Thanks to Invisalignâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revolutionary 3D modelling software and manufacturing technology it is now possible to have straight teeth without visible brackets and wires. From these 3D computerised images a series of custom-made clear plates (aligners) are manufactured. Each aligner is worn for about two weeks, gradually moving the teeth towards the final aligned position over a period of 9 to 18 months. The advantages of Invisalign treatment far outweigh the disadvantages. It is reliable, effective, practically invisible and comfortable to wear. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t require a change in lifestyle and because the aligners can be removed you can floss and brush normally and eat whatever you want, there is no forbidden food. However if you are tempted to wear the aligners less than 20 hours a day treatment may take longer or the optimal alignment may not be achieved. Initially Invisalign was seen as more appropriate for adults but recent modifications have led to the introduction of InvisalignTeenTM, which straightens teenagers teeth with the same custom made clear aligners modified for young adults whose permanent teeth are still growing and forming. Each set of aligners comes with a colour indicator, which fades when it is time to change the aligner and shows parents that their teenager is keeping up with treatment. There are also four free replacement aligners because teenagers have a habit of losing, misplacing or damaging them. This makes it easier for teenagers to complete treatment on time and without adding increased costs.

DR. LUKE SYMONS DR. WAYNE PEARSON DR. JACI CARLAW DR. JULIE AUSTIN

Your local, family-owned, clinic that has been looking after the Clarence Valleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dental needs for over 35 years.

155 Fitzroy St Grafton 6642 5211 After Hours Emergencies 0418 400 735 ZZZ Äş W]UR\GHQWDOJUDIWRQ FRP DX

What is Orthodontics?

Sun protection in winter

Australia unfortunatley has some of the hightest levels of ultraviolet (UV) exposure and skin cancer rates in the world. Sun protection is recommended when the UV index reaches level 3 and in winter although we have cooler days, the UV index regularly reaches 4. You may be aware of the dangers of UV exposure to your skin, but are you aware that your eyes are vulnerable to UV damage anytime of the day, anytime of the year? Almost 60 per cent of Australians believe it is only the midday sun that poses the greatest UV threat but this not the case. UV exposure to the eye before 10am and after 2pm may be higher than during the middle of the day on some days due to the angle of the sun in relation to the eye. Make sure you protect your eyes all day and all year round, as UV exposure can peak at times when ordinarily you may not be wearing UV protective lenses and may believe you are not exposed, such as when the UV is coming from behind you. It is not only the direct sun on a fine, clear cloudless day in summer that can cause damage. Research has shown that a

greater proportion of ultraviolet rays can reach the eye from scattered sunlight from clouds and light reflected from the ground and off water. Despite 60 per cent of Australian adults being concerned about ultraviolet damage to their eyes, nearly half fail to always wear sunglasses or UV protective lenses on sunny days. Did you know that accumulated UV exposure to your eyes can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration (a leading cause of blindness), pterygium (a fleshy growth on the eye), solar keratopathy, and skin cancer of the eyelids and around the eyes? Even short bursts of unprotected UV exposure can lead to eye pain, irritation and sensitivity to light. All UV eye exposure, regardless of how short, adds up in the long term. It is important to wear suitable UV protective lenses all the time and have your eyes tested regularly or as advised by your Optometrist. Adding a UV protective coating to your prescription lenses, buying prescription sunglasses with back surface UV protection or buying sunglasses that can be worn over your glasses is a great way to reduce your UV exposure. Some contact lenses also have built-in UV protection, but it is recommended that you still wear sunglasses over the top to protect the rest of the eye.

Colour. Clarity. Detail.

When describing orthodontics, most people just refer to braces. While the majority of orthodontic cases involve braces, there are also appliances that may be needed before braces and retainers that are used afterwards to keep the teeth straight. ‘Invisible braces’, which are actually clear plastic retainers instead of braces, can sometimes be used for mild to moderate crowding problems. What are the benefits of Orthodontics? • Reduce the risk of injury - prominent teeth are more prone to trauma • Reduce the risk of decay - crooked teeth are harder to clean • Reduce the risk of developing TMJ problems • Eliminate the excessive wear on your teeth that can be caused by a poorly aligned bite • Correcting abnormal tooth alignment can help prevent certain speech problems • Straight teeth provide a healthier, more attractive smile • A beautiful smile increases confidence and self-esteem What is an Orthodontic evaluation? Orthodontic treatment with braces begins with an evaluation appointment. The doctor will first visually determine if a child is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, or if another treatment would be more appropriate. If a child is a good candidate for orthodontic treatment, the doctor will take impressions of the child’s teeth, special x-rays of their jaw joint, head and teeth, and very important measurements of their teeth and mouth. Next is a consulting appointment to discuss the treatment plan. The treatment plan is based on the records taken at the evaluation. The consult includes: • Specific treatment recommendation • Expected length of treatment • Expected cost of treatment

• FREE OF CHARGE Consultation for Braces assessment • Adults & teens can be treated with tooth coloured Braces or Invisalign® Sequential Aligners invisalign/teen • We provide Jaw Orthopaedics, TMJ Treatment & Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Therapy

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Eyecare Plus Yamba

Shop 24, Yamba Shopping Fair, 1-3 Treelands Dr, Yamba NSW 2464 P: (02) 6646 1477

Eyecare Plus Maclean 241 River St, Maclean NSW 2463 P: (02) 6645 2523

Eyecare Plus Grafton 58 Prince St, 8!đ32 ¤ P: (02) 6643 4000

• Easy interest free payment plans available

Dr Chris Van Vuuren and Associates.

1300 255 678

email: grafton@orthodontic.net.au www.orthodontic.net.au • GRAFTON & MACLEAN June 2018

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‘Is this the meeting?’ Telling people’s stories is one of the most satisfying elements of being a journalist who works in a relatively small community. It’s a safety valve of sorts; a break from the more psychologically demanding work entailed in analysing, reflecting and reporting on often divisive subjects connected with governance. The satisfaction comes from the trust people extend to me when telling their stories, particularly after I have approached them with an idea. There’s no ulterior agenda on their part, they’re not seeking publicity. So it all boils down to trusting me to be sensitive about what is appropriate for publication, and what is not. That is a privilege I treasure. In fact, everybody has an interesting story in them: sometimes it’s just a matter of stimulating synapses and catching what falls out. With that in mind, I share one of mine. GEOFF HELISMA

(main pic) Long weekends away with the boys were part of our surf culture. Pictured at Minnie Water, circa 1979, (l-r) Robbie Lejeune, Craig Charman, Terry ‘Rance’ Randal, Ray Manicaros, Wayne ‘Moleman’ Murphy and Len Fisher (I was behind the camera). (above) Steve ‘Zorro’ Goddard (left) and sidekick, ‘Grommet’, with a surfboard featuring the ultimate outsider of the day, Iggy Pop. He came to be regarded as ‘The Godfather of Punk’ and a key musical influence. 32

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June 2018

ust before Christmas in 1977, my partner, seven-month-old daughter and I moved into a unit near Markwell Fisheries store on the highway at Tweed Heads. I’d fulfilled a longheld desire to move to the coast; my plumbing and drainage apprenticeship was finally completed. At last. Over the previous eight years, since my surfing life had properly begun, I was a ‘Briso’, a despised ‘Westie’ who had no right to be surfing at a ‘locals’’ break – at least that’s how it was at a few places I frequented on the Gold or Sunshine coasts, mostly on weekends. I was very competitive and longed to join a board-riders club (wanting to both find a place in the order of things, as a ‘real’ surfer, and appease my ego); but, alas, I didn’t know anyone (or how) … and I was carrying an outcast’s baggage due to where I came from. Although, in hindsight, I’d proved my desire to be a surfer over many years, having hitched to the Sunny Coast or the Goldie since I was 14 (until I owned a car); even ditching school once to spend the day surfing National Park at Noosa with an older student who owned a car and shared my passion for surfing. Daydreaming out the classroom window about something hours of travel away was both inspiring and depressing. But … I have digressed. So, I’m paddling around Greenmount on a sunny afternoon – on an awful, maroon San Juan swallowtail I’d bought at Adler’s surf shop in Brisbane (it was the worst board I’d ever ridden, and still is) – among a healthy crowd and a consistent three to four foot swell. There was one thing I’d noticed since I’d started regularly surfing the breaks around Coolangatta: a lot of good surfers were riding Aragorn Surfboards. Note to self: ‘I want one.’ A swarthy goofy-footer, sporting a moustache capable of holding at least a swig of beer, is ripping his way down the point; he flicks off right next to me. Here’s my chance! ‘Err…. Hi…. Ummm…. ‘Who makes your surfboards, mate? Where do I go to get one?’ Steve ‘Zorro’ Goddard answers: ‘I make them.’ I’m both impressed and exalted. My fear of being snubbed evaporates. We chat for a

while and the conversation comes around to: ‘Are you in a board-riders club?’ ‘Yeah; Kirra Surfriders.’ ‘Arr.… How would I go about joining?’ ‘Well, someone has to nominate you, and you need a seconder.’ ‘Um.… I don’t know anyone.’ ‘You do now. Come to the meeting at the Coolangatta Hotel at half past seven on Monday night.’ I felt lucky; I’d soon be ordering a new board and joining a board-riders club. Come Monday night and my nerves are on edge; I smoke a joint to quell my anxiety. It’s a mistake. Suddenly, my confidence, the small amount that was propelling me to meet the types of surfers I’d only read about in Tracks, was flushed away by one inhale too many. ‘Just hang out at the pinnies, we’ll find each other,’ I think Steve said. I focus on the silver ball as the bumpers propel it around the playing field; John Travolta stares back at me … I was intrigued by the banana flippers on the Disco Fever pinnie. It’s a quarter to eight … and still no Steve. There’s a group of guys milling about just behind me … gathering for a meeting? I dare a glance through the haze clouding my brain. There’s one guy who stands out above the others. He’s a bear of a man with a beard to match. I ponder: ‘Is he the leader?’ It’s now or never: be a man, or leave defeated by my paranoia? ‘Hi, do you know a guy called Steve, who’s in Kirra Surfriders?’ ‘Yeah.’ ‘Is this the meeting?’ ‘Yeah.’ ‘Err, Steve said he was going to nominate me tonight.’ ‘Did he? What’s your name?’ ‘Geoff Helisma.’ The bear of a man extends his paw. ‘Hi, I’m the club’s president, Graeme Scammell. Zorro will be here soon. Just call me Scammell.’ I shake his hand, relieved. I soon discover he is the president and that the club is rising, phoenix like, from the ashes of the heroin scourge that had decimated many of the town’s surfers. ‘This is Scotty, Westy, Stubbsy, Kenny, Jay, Dave, Greg, Rosso and….’

The meeting is a blur, but somehow I’ve made it to being a probationary member of the club. I’m on Cloud 9. Ironically, I soon discover, a lot of the ‘boys’ are expat Novocastrians or ‘blow-ins’ from other east coast beaches. And, fortunately, it was Kirra Surfriders Club I’d lucked into; trying to join Snapper would have surely ended in tears. A tense rivalry ensued between the clubs. But, again, I digress. The first contest is on this Sunday. ‘Be at the Kirra car park at 7.30am,’ rings in my ears, and underwrites my dreams for the next six nights. Sunday: it’s flat at Kirra, but ‘there’ll be waves down the coast’. My mind is swimming; who can I get a lift with? I manage to scrounge a lift in Scotty’s Holden; six boards are strapped to the roof, just an Ocky strap away from spiralling through the atmosphere. I’m in the back seat, squeezed between Stubbsy and

‘Rosso rocked up to the car park on a motorbike, looking the part – a tiny goatee on his chin, black leather jacket and an aura to match.’ Rosso, who had rocked up to the car park on a motorbike, looking the part – a tiny goatee on his chin, black leather jacket and an aura to match. As we cross the Barneys Point Bridge, we’re on our way to ‘back beach at Hastings Point,’ I’m told. I’m equally excited and nervous about surfing in my first proper contest. ‘So where’d you blow in from,’ says Ross. ‘Err … Brisbane.’ ‘Ahh? Well…. You must be a half decent surfer; otherwise Zorro wouldn’t have nominated you.’ ‘Do you think there’ll be good waves, Ross?’ Rossy contemplates the question long enough to make me squirm. We’re moulded to each other, hip to shoulder. He turns, looks me in the eye and quietly hisses: ‘Just

‘A swarthy goofy-footer, sporting a moustache capable of holding at least a swig of beer, is ripping his way down the point; he flicks off right next to me.’

’cause you’re in the club, doesn’t mean I’m your fuckin’ friend!’ The chip on my shoulder, the one I’d developed from years of being, or at least feeling scorned by the locals upon whose turf I’d trod and surfed, weighed heavily. I stared straight ahead, silent for the next half hour. I focused on the task ahead: competing against some of the best surfers on the coast while still riding my dog of a surfboard. Failure was my shadow but, really, as it turned out, that was all in my mind. Or was it? Becoming a member of a surfing tribe had long been a goal of mine, and Kirra sure was one of those. Funnily enough, during my membership I (and others) was an agent of change (some might argue for better, others, for worse). I actively worked towards breaking down the barriers tribal elitism could throw up, while maintaining the respect and devotion the club demanded of its members. People who lived in Brisbane, who proved their loyalty and their dedication to surfing, were admitted as a result – and female members were inducted, too … even a

body boarder joined (that drew contempt from certain quarters!). Over the ensuing years I served the club as its treasurer, secretary, contest director, event coordinator and, finally, president. Unbeknown to me, during my time at the club I was developing skills that I continue to use in my life to this day. I regard becoming the club’s president as an achievement and an honour, even though that one year at the helm ended in a temper tantrum and tears, on a fateful night at the Dolphin Hotel in Tweed Heads – the club’s home for a while. But that’s another story.

(Above) Grommets wait for their heat at Duranbah Beach, Tweed Heads. • (Top) Kirra Surfriders presentation night at ‘The Patch’ at the Queensland Hotel, circa 1981, I’m standing second from right (chequered shirt).• (Centre right) Receiving a ife membership shield from club president Graeme Scammel (right) at a Kirra Surfriders presentation night.

Surfing

Shop 6 / 4 Yamba Street, Yamba

6646 1330

everything

facebook.com/Countrystyle-Surf June 2018

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Happy Birthday to us - 18 years on the road! Thank you to everyone who sent cards, called us and gave us a hug or two to celebrate our 18th birthday in business. Alan and I were touched. It’s been a long hard road but we’re still here.

We had a really lovely day on our 18th Birthday Mystery Tour. It was a lot of fun driving around roundabouts round and around! For those of you who couldn’t make the day ~ we missed you. Alan and I headed off separately and met the coach at Mylestom with a morning tea with a difference. And we celebrated with a huge cake. So where have we been lately? I’m glad you asked. We’ve travelled on the Christmas Tour, been in Melbourne for the Mystery Tour, travelled again to Melbourne for the International Flower Show, stopped off on the Great Alpine Road and had a ball in Lord Howe Island - just to name a few. Bryan & Jan have also just come back from our Longreach Tour. The comments from this tour were (apart from the great time they all had) that the country is just so dry. Can’t begin to imagine what our farmers are going through. So what’s in store for the next

couple of months? We have our Christmas in July tour heading to the Blue Mountains. There are only a couple of seats left on this one if you are still interested. Yes, it will be cold but isn’t that half the fun of going on a Christmas in July tour? The Blue Mountains area is just beautiful and with the white frosting…..well; just picturesque. Our big coach tour of the year to Western Australia is going well. For those of you who are new to Northland Tours, this trip is a two part tour. You can do the first part of the tour where we transfer you to Brisbane, fly you to Darwin, you do the tour from Darwin to Perth and then we fly you home. Or you can do the second leg which is, we fly you to Perth and after doing some scenic touring in WA we coach you back across the Nullarbor back home. Or, you can do both tours which a lot are doing. We’ve only got about two seats left on the Darwin to Perth tour, so if that’s on your bucket list, we’d love to hear from you. There are still plenty of seats on the second part but don’t wait - book now. A lot of questions we get asked about extended tours is “how do I go with washing”, “what do I pack”, “how will I cope for that long?” The easy answers are you’re not getting dirty as such so many recycle their clothes. Most of the motels we stay at have washing machines but usually you can wash your underclothes each night, hang them up in your room and they’ll be dry in the morning. Chinese laundries galore! You pack whatever clothes you feel comfortable with - there’s no need to dress fancy. Just comfortable travelling clothes as there are no

fashion awards at the end of the tour! And finally how will you cope? You will. It will be a trip of a lifetime. You’ll see so much, make new friends, take numerous photographs both on your camera and in your head and you’ll have an absolute ball. The days away will fly by! Another highlight of our 2018 touring calendar will be our tour to Amsterdam in September when we cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. I’ll be personally taking this tour and can’t wait. There’s a few places on the tour that I’ve travelled before and a few I haven’t, so I’m just as eager to get going on this trip as my passengers. We can take more passengers if you are interested although the price is on application. I’m happy to check availability though if anyone else is interested in joining this trip. Well, that’s it for me for now. I’d love to chat with you. I’d love to share a fabulous holiday experience with you. I’d love to tick off some of those holiday destinations off you’re your bucket list. And finally remember, it’s not the destination… it’s the journey. Travel soon.

Janelle

Images: dynamicx.co.nz

Discover Northland FOR ALL YOUR TOUR AND CHARTER NEEDS think NORTHLAND COACH & TRAVEL

Upcoming tours include trips to Shows including Beautiful, Evita and Senior Moments. Day trips, Mystery Trips. Christmas in July getaway to the Blue Mountains. Toowoomba Flower Show. Christmas in Kiama. Norfolk Island and overseas tours including Amsterdam to Budapest and an Italian Lakes Tour. Do you need a Coach for your sporting, social or school group? Our Coaches are available for hire with our experienced Coach drivers.

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June 2018

Shop 10, The Link Grafton Shoppingworld, Grafton NSW 2460 P 6643 1212 | E enquiries@northlandcoaches.com.au www.northlandcoaches.com.au

The beauty of

Japan

The Cherry Blossoms, known in Japanese as ‘Sakura’ have dazzled the world for centuries and continue to overwhelm visitors and locals. And in April a lucky group from the Clarence Valley and surrounds got to experience these delicate soft pink flowers that have romanced the Japanese for centuries. Their trip started in Tokyo as it is the main gateway to Japan discovering its many pockets, experiencing the hustle and bustle of Shibuya & Shinjuku, and over to the quiet peace and serenity of Japan’s public parks, and all the way through to the world famous Meji Shrine. Moving from Tokyo to the old cities of Kanazawa and Takayama a few days were spent immersing

themselves in Japanese culture and traditions before making their way to Hiroshima.. Utilising the high speed Shinkansens (bullet trains) the group were in awe of the 320km speeds per hour that were possible. Visiting the emotional Hiroshima, a walk through the city’s memorial park revealed a complex mix of devastation and rehabilitation. A real highlight here was seeing the The Floating Torii Gate which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of Japan's '3 Most Beautiful Views'. Back on the Shinkasen again to Osaka, the areas explored were the famous Osaka Castle, Shinsekai and Dotonbori. Shinsekai felt like a time warp as you quite literally

step back in time to a Japan that time forgot, but of course with the added colour and livelihood of the 21st Century! Dotonbori is the main tourist thoroughfare in Osaka which is also home to the best street food in Osaka. Cherry blossoms were to be seen throughout their entire journey. The group then flew onto Taiwan for 5 days exploring the beauty of Sun Moon Lake and the fast paced Taipei. Travelling all the way in the comfort of Cathay Pacific Airways, 4-5 star hotels and every detail taken care of; the group returned home with great friendships and stories alike. Escorted by Riverland Travel’s own Judy Castle departing from right here in the Clarence Valley. Images: dynamicx.co.nz

Personally escorted

Majestic Myanmar Join Judy on this amazing journey, fully escorted from the Clarence Valley! A land of dazzling pagodas, crumbling temples, and age-old customs. This tour delves deep into the magic and mystery of Myanmar. You’ll explore cultural treasures, try your hand at traditional crafts and meet some of the country’s diverse local people.

FROM $ 5,495 p/p Main deck $ 6,010 p/p Upper deck TWIN SHARE 7 night Irrawaddy River Cruise 15 day tour, ϐ ͳͳ ʹͲͳͺ

FROM 5,920 p/p Main deck $ 6,415 p/p Upper deck SINGLE ROOM $

WHAT’S INCLUDED - Transfers in Australia Ǧ ϐ taxes with Singapore airlines - Domestic transportation - Meals -14 breakfasts, 8 lunches & 8 dinners

- Accommodation - Touring with guides and entrance fees - Visa fees for Australian passport holders - Tipping (paid locally)

Price Based on 16 passengers travelling, subject to change

June 2018

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WOMEN RACE FOR MORE MAGIC

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$10 MILLION MAGIC MILLIONS RACEDAY FEATURING THE $500,000 RACING WOMEN’S BONUS

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