Scene autumn

SCENE MAGAZINE | MARCH 2018

BIRD COUNTRY

CLAIR AMAN

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Features

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FREE

Weddings

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HOW FAITH AND A VISION CHANGES LIVES JEAN-PIERRE & HONI REIFLER

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CALL OF THE PIPES MACLEAN DISTRICT PIPE BAND

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A MODEL LIFE BRIAN WILKES

SAY I DO WITH A VIEW

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REAL WEDDINGS BEST EVER TIPS & PICTURES DECADENT CAKES

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LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHERS CHOOSE THEIR TOP 5 LOCATIONS IN THE VALLEY

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March 2018

From under the desk...

Does artificial intelligence exist? I think so; this week my computer only did what it wanted to. I said ‘print’.

It wouldn’t. I said ‘save’. It couldn’t. I didn’t say ‘shut down’. It did. Artificial intelligence is supposed to be the end of mankind as we know it and I can believe that – it is the end of my mind as I know it.

Luckily some of the other computers in our office have not evolved as much and we have managed to meet the deadline.

This month’s issue incorporates our huge wedding feature, which provides plenty of information and advice for brides-to-be.

We have a chat with some local photographers and celebrants about their top locations for wedding shoots and chat with some recently married couples.

Geoff Helisma talks with Clair Aman about Bird Country, her recently published collection of short stories – we are lucky enough to feature one of her Grafton-centric stories, Mrs Dogwether’s Bird Moment. It’s a great read.

He also spends time with members of the Maclean and District Pipe Band, who tell of their love for bagpipes – Alister Smith also recounts his recent performance at a Paul McCartney concert in front of 40,000 people.

A retired Yamba man, Brian Wilkes, talks with Geoff about how he spends his days creating model fishing trawlers.

Lynne Mowbray talks with Jean-Pierre [J-P or John] and Honi Reifler, who run the Sherwood Cliffs Christian Rehab Centre, which is celebrating its 40th year, and how they came to be running the centre.

There is so much to read in this issue and, luckily, I will have plenty of time for it. If my computer wants to go alone then so be it – it can also do all my work for me, vacuum the floor, clean the house and cook the meals. Artificial intelligence – bring it on!

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Happy reading /\QGD

Published by Greysen Enterprises t/a the Clarence Valley Independent Printed by Fairfax Print, Richmond

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.

On the Cover

Turners | One of our top 5 wedding shoot detstinations in Yamba Photo by The Sea Society Photography visit www.seasociety.com.au

CONTENTS 4

ON THE COVER: from The Sea So Original image ciety Photograph y.

SHORT STORIES

BY CLAIR AMAN

15 39

WEDDINGS

ROAD TO GREATNESS

IT’S A COFFEE LIFE

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

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General Manager Ann Mazzitelli Sub Editor Lynda Davidson Journalists Geoff Helisma Lynne Mowbray Graphic Designers Chloe Billington

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.

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March 2018

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Bird Country

Bird Country, a collection of short stories by Clair Aman, was compiled over a 10-year period; along the way some of the stories have been published elsewhere and several have won prizes, including the Wet Ink/CAL Prize and the Hal Porter Prize.

Arts critic for theaureview.com, Emily Paul, made an accurate observation when she wrote: “I think this is a collection that will bear reading and rereading, and rereading again in the years to come.... The magic in these stories comes from a unique way of seeing and a unique way of recording. Each piece tells the story of an ordinary person who is dealing with their own personal demons.”

Geoff Helisma talks with the Grafton-based writer.

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March 2018

People say, ‘Why don’t you write a novel?’ and I say, ‘I haven’t got enough concentration to keep it all in my mind’,” says Claire Aman. Even ‘Why the Owl Gazes at the Moon’, which began as a novel 22 years ago, became a short story – albeit the longest and last story in the anthology.

The bulk of Aman’s stories are told in the first person, much like anecdotal recollections of a life lived then retold in a memoir or autobiography. But they’re not her personal stories; they are imaginary tales that evolve from her observations and experiences as she goes about her daily life. There’s a commonality in the psyche of each protagonist, but they are convincingly not the same person, much like a top notch actor brings an ‘x factor’ to their various roles.

Many of the stories are informed by the Grafton region’s geography, or familiar rural landscapes, situations and events; inducing the reader to vicariously experience a character’s plight.

While Aman grew up in Melbourne, she yearned to live a countrified lifestyle. “I moved up here in 1988 from near Kempsey,” she says. “I loved country towns, I loved gum trees; I lived at Kangaroo Creek for about 12 years.”

The story re-published here, ‘Mrs Dogwether’s Bird Moment’, takes place in Grafton next to the Environment Centre in South Grafton during the planning stage for the new Grafton bridge. Aman lived beside the existing bridge for years and its ‘personality’ is one source of inspiration for the author.

“Our house was knocked down by RMS a year ago to make way for the bridge.

Living by the bridge was great; I’d walk through the long grass down to the water.

The bridge went right past our window, so you could see the train drivers’ faces and wave to them. The walkway went past our

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front gate – I met a lot of people walking along the bridge.”

So, while the stories told are about other people, thematically they “come from things I have experienced”, she says. “’Queensland Bluegrass’ is about a man and his small children as they are driving along. He has to tell them their mother had died, but he doesn’t know how. I tried to imagine what it was like for my father when my mother died fifty-five years ago. I imagined what that road trip would be like.”

And birds, why are birds so prominent in the stories? “I don’t know; an unconscious thing maybe. But I notice birds so often; they are always around. It wasn’t until I wrote six or seven stories that I realised that they all have birds in them – especially caged birds; I always felt sorry for caged birds.

“And I’ve lived beside people with birds. One neighbour had an aviary ... [but] I don’t love birds, I’ve never held one; I just love seeing them and hearing them.”

Much of Aman’s storytelling fosters a sense of longing, a kind of melancholia. “Deep down I am a wistful person and writing gives me a good chance to express that – otherwise I would have to carry it out in my normal life, which would be a bit of a drag.

“People do have a dark side; we need a lot of emotions exercised and engaged.

Music and stories are really good in that way: exposing us to our emotions and other people’s emotions.”

Meanwhile, Aman says she will “try one day to write a longer story; I’ll do it for fun”.

“I’ll try a novel after I’ve written this next short story,” she quips, perhaps ironically.

“It’ll involve a lot of thinking.” She pauses.

“It seems it would be difficult, though, and I don’t know if I’m up to it.”

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email@hamiltonsimmons.com.au March 2018

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Mrs Dogwether’s Bird Moment

From Mrs Dogwether’s back veranda you can see right into Birdwoman’s terrible backyard, because the fence is falling down.

It’s a bird slum.

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March 2018

MRS DOGWETHER’S FRONT door is open but I don’t go in because it smells like chops and cat poo in there. I stand on the doormat and sing out helloo-oo like a tremulous old Mavis.

It’s dark inside. I can’t hear anything. Maybe she’s sitting dead in her yellow chair with the cat clawing at her lap.

I call again. The toilet clanks and hisses. Here she comes. Scrape, clomp, scrape, clomp. I can hear her muttering away to the cat.

Hoy, she says.

Hoy, I say back.

It must be Tuesday, she says. Yes, I say, and I tell her I’m going up the street later on and it’s no trouble to grab a few things if she needs anything. A punkin, she tells me. Powdered milk.

She’s run out of cat food. And one of them tins of ham with the pink label. Custard powder. She leads me through to the back veranda. I hold my breath as I follow her, so I don’t have to smell the rooms.

She serves me tea in a teacup and a crumbly slice of last week’s Swiss roll. The cat lies on its back on the table between us with its legs spread. We listen to the whit-woo, to-whit-woo coming from Birdwoman’s doves over the back fence. There’s a big old mango tree in Mrs Dogwether’s backyard. There’s no fruit on it, even though it’s January. It was the hail, she says, knocked all the buds off. Last week she told me it was the fruit bats.

I look at the Swiss roll with its red spiral of jam. I’ll have to eat it. She thinks I like it, but all that sticky

sugar brings me out in a sweat.

When I ask her how her leg is, she pulls her dress up and shows me the shining ulcer. Her leg looks like the trunk of an old fig tree, all gnarled and whorled, with the veins snaking down like strangler roots. It’s looking a bit better. She’s wearing the new pink slippers.

She says she’s got something for me. She shuffles out and I hear her rummaging around in the next room. She brings out a tiny jar with a pink label. Her granddaughter in Adelaide sent it to her. I read out the label: Nourishing Organic Rose Moisturising Cream. I open the jar. It smells really nice, just like roses, and I dab some under my nostrils so I can breathe it in. I hold the jar out to her.

We sit there sipping our tea, white-moustachioed, stroking the cat’s belly.

When I stand to leave she brings out her green purse and gives me a ten-dollar note. Then she hands me the rest of the Swiss roll wrapped in a page of the Daily Examiner, tied up with a wisp of string.

She stands on the front porch gripping the handrail like a captain on a pitching ship, all stern knuckles and face to the wind. You’ll cut those feet, she calls down. She always says this.

They’re tough, I say, like always.

I go back next door and up the stairs to the Environment Centre. I work here on Tuesdays and Wednesdays with Jess. Other days other volunteers are there. We have a roster. I normally bring my sleeping bag and stay there at the centre on Tuesday nights so I don’t have to drive all the way home to Gilletts Ridge and then back on the Wednesday. There’s nobody at home to miss me except the chooks since my ex moved out.

The Environment Centre used to be in the main street but when the rent went up we had to move around here to Oliver Street. It’s cheaper.

There’s a pub and a few rundown double-storey shops like this one, but most of the street is peeling weatherboard houses on stilts like Mrs Dogwether’s.

The big thing for us at the Environment Centre just now is the bridge plan. The Roads Authority wants to build a new bridge over the Clarence River – the old kinked bridge is too narrow for semitrailers. This is a serious engineering extravaganza they’re talking about. They want the bridge to start at Eggerts Landing just out of town, run over Supplejack Island and across to the west bank. Using the island would avoid having to build a massive span across the wide Clarence, so the engineers love it. But the Environment Centre is fighting it because Supplejack Island has the last subtropical rainforest remnant in the valley.

Most people in Grafton don’t care much about that. They just want a new bridge. Some people think it’s okay because they might get a job out of it. Mrs Dogwether says she doesn’t want the new bridge, but I think she’s just taking our side because I help with her shopping.

Jess and I sit on the back steps of the Environment Centre and smoke a joint. We prop the door open so we can see if anyone comes in.

Jess reads aloud to me from a fat document with a shiny blue cover. It’s the consultant’s report on the fauna and flora of Supplejack Island. It only arrived today.

Although individual rainforest trees are present, this remnant stand is so small as to be of negligible ecological value. Vegetation communities in the precinct are not known to support endangered ecological communities or floral threatened species.

We howl our disgust. We know there are threatened species there. We’ve been over there by canoe three times with our bird books. Once we

The doves have stopped. Every sound is perfectly clear. A dog is barking a few streets away. I can hear the trucks grinding softly along the highway on the other side of the river.

camped there, listening for owls. We’ve seen a Wompoo Fruit-Dove there. They’re big, with a yellow belly and a chest the colour of a ripe plum. And we heard something calling whoop-whoop-whoop-whoop-whoop, which Jess said was for sure a Superb Fruit-Dove.

Of course the consultant would say there’d be no impact. That’s what they’re paid to say.

We decide to go back to the island tomorrow and take photos. Jess goes inside to find the camera. I stretch my legs out in the sun and keep reading the report, stabbing my pen at all the half-truths. This whole valley used to be rainforest. Now there’s only Supplejack Island. It’s the only food source for the fruit-eating doves. I start making notes for a press release to send to the local paper.

There’s a rattle and a bang from over the back. It’s Birdwoman, limping off to the shops like a decrepit old canary. The Environment Centre and Mrs Dogwether’s place both back onto Birdwoman’s yard. I can see her head over the fence from where I’m sitting at the top of the steps. From Mrs Dogwether’s back veranda you can see right into Birdwoman’s terrible backyard, because the fence is falling down. It’s a bird slum. She’s got finches and parrots and budgies and sad doves all crowded into dark tumbledown cages. The bits of rusty roofing iron are held on with anything she’s chucked up there – a lump of concrete, bits of four-by-two, a milk crate. Every time it’s windy she throws something else up there.

The birds stand lined up on the perches with no room to open their wings. The doves are the first sound in the morning and the last at night. They’ll start up in the middle of the night if there’s a disturbance in the street.

Birdwoman’s nailed a ragged square of tin to her front fence. She’s scrawled in black paint Budgy’s $15. Last month there was one that said Hand razed bluebonet $10.

Jess and I reported her to the council last year but they told us she’s legal. There’s nothing we can do. Bill Purcell from the birdwatchers’ club told me that birds raised in captivity couldn’t survive in the wild. They’d be attacked and killed before the day was over.

They don’t know how to look after themselves.

Mrs Dogwether and Birdwoman don’t like each other. One day I watched them both hanging out their washing. They had their backs turned to each other. Mrs Dogwether had a mouth like a prune as she flapped out her pillowslip. On the other side of the busted fence Birdwoman, surly faced, pegged up her things while in the cages the little birds sang and sang.

Birdwoman comes back carrying a loaf of bread. I go back inside and get my shopping bags together. Jess is trying to un-jam the printer. I take the Environment Centre bike and ride to the supermarket. Mrs Dogwether loves her tinned peaches but I get her some fresh grapes as well. I find her a handsome little iron-

bark pumpkin.

I stand in Mrs Dogwether’s kitchen again with the shopping. I don’t want to stay: I need to get back and finish my press release.

She looks at the floor. What’s that? she says.

There are red prints on the lino. I pick up my foot with my hand and see a long red smile of a cut on my heel. I hadn’t noticed. She doesn’t smile very often but now she has a little smirk. She brings out a rag. It’s an old pair of man’s underpants, soft and grey. I squat down to wipe the lino but she sends me into the bathroom and tells me to put metho on my foot. The metho’s in a cabinet behind a speckled mirror. Packets of pills are all stacked up neatly. The towel on the rail is so threadbare it’s almost transparent.

I knew you’d do that, she calls out from the kitchen. I pretend I didn’t hear.

We sit on the back veranda again. The cat’s kneading her lap with its claws. I’ve got the underpants wrapped around my foot and the cut’s stinging from the metho.

I tell Mrs Dogwether I’m upset about the report that ignores the rainforest doves of Supplejack Island. She tells me she’s seen doves over on Supplejack when she was a girl.

I didn’t know she’d ever been there. Then she tells me she used to work behind the counter in Pincombe’s Produce Store before the war.

I know Pincombe’s – it’s in River Street. I buy my chook food there. They sell hay and saddles and fencing wire, seeds, axes and boots.

Anyway, she says, that’s where she met Jack Bloomfield. He was off a dairy farm. He used to ride all the way into town on a bicycle and pick her up. She’d sit on the crossbar of his bike and they’d ride out to Eggerts Landing, and they’d hide the bike in the prickly cockspur on the river’s edge and swim out to Supplejack. It was a long way, she says: two hundred yards.

She tells me that when she became tired she’d float on her back and he’d hold her to him, swimming with one arm while she lay against him.

The sun’s shining on the table. In the dusty light her arms look like some ravaged land, all rutted and gullied. Her hands lie next to her cup like naked things. I wait but she’s not saying anything else.

Then she asks me if I think all them doves over there on Supplejack will be driven away if the bridge goes ahead.

Yes, I say.

Back at the Environment Centre, Jess is getting ready to go home. I go back to my press release. I try to write something that will make people care. Just the names of the trees are beautiful: White Booyong, Supplejack, Pepperberry. Turnipwood. Pothos Vine. In the dawn-lit forest of Supplejack Island, the Superb Fruit-Dove feeds quietly on soft figs, innocent of the plan to destroy its only food source.

Just before sunset I ride the bicycle out to

Eggerts Landing. Supplejack Island lies long and low in the water with the dark mass of trees pluming out of its back. The underbellies of clouds are mirrored in the water. I can hear frogs in the reeds clopping and squeaking and making little splashes. It smells like the sea. In the distance I can see the old Grafton Bridge squatting on its fat piers. The pink falls out of the sky fast. By the time I get back to the Environment Centre I’m relying on a buttery full moon to see where I’m going.

Before I go to bed I look again at the route plan. The bridge and link road are drawn onto an aerial photo. The thick black line goes sliding across the paddocks and down to the river. It catches Supplejack Island, roping it tightly to the riverbanks east and west, then snakes away to the Summerland Way. Something wakes me up. I’ve always been a light sleeper. If a possum so much as sneezes I wake up. It’s twenty to twelve. I’ve been dreaming about water.

There’s something scraping around in the backyard. The doves start up a lopsided whitwoo, whit-woo. It could be just a drunk. But it could be someone breaking in. It wouldn’t be the first time. I slide out of my sleeping bag and creep towards the back door in the dark, trying to keep my feet quiet on the floorboards. I open the back door slowly, my fingertips on the latch. I stand at the top of the steps and lean out over the railing, listening.

The doves have stopped. Every sound is perfectly clear. A dog is barking a few streets away. I can hear the trucks grinding softly along the highway on the other side of the river. I can’t hear the scraping noise anymore.

Everything is bright and sharpened. The moon is directly overhead, cold and small and far away. But even though it looks small, it lights everything up. It’s shining on the top of the mango tree and on the mulberry tree and on the roofs of Birdwoman’s cages over the back fence. There are no shadows; everything’s in relief, like at midday when the sun’s overhead. I can see every leaf on the mulberry tree.

It’s nothing.

I’m just about to go back inside when I see Mrs Dogwether standing at her back fence. I can see her face. She’s in her dressing gown.

I’m sure she’s looking right up at me, but neither of us makes a sign.

She’s standing at a hole in the fence where the palings have fallen off. She turns and pushes very slowly through the gap, into Birdwoman’s yard. I can see her hand gripping the square fence post.

The doves start up again with their beatup whit-woo. Mrs Dogwether is at their cage.

She’s got her back to me.

She turns and looks at me. I don’t move. We stare at each other. Then she swings the cage door open and I hear the wet flap of wings.

• This story is taken from Bird Country by Claire Aman ($29.99, Text Publishing); out now.

March 2018

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A model

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man runs across Yamba Road as I’m driving home after work, late as usual. He’s carrying a largish, impressive model of what looks like a fishing trawler. After some short-lived procrastinating while driving a kilometre or so down the road, a U-turn is necessary; a convivial chat with Brian Wilkes and his wife Caryl, including an offer to ‘have a beer’, follows – and an appointment is made to meet in few weeks.

One of Brian’s modelled trawlers is a replica of Sea Dreamer. “We were in the fishing game and Jim Bultitude, who went down with the boat 40 years ago, was a mate of ours,” says Brian. “When the boat went down I decided to make one – I had a few photos, that’s all – I made it out of my memory; it’s out of a solid piece of timber. I’ve made three versions; it’s the biggest in the fleet, 62 feet

“I always liked Grafton, always went past the house.

It started falling to pieces, so I thought I’d build it (laughs) again; it’s not there anymore.” Ǖ

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long.”

The Sydney Morning Herald reported the tragedy on January 11, 1979: “A Yamba fishing trawler skipper was drowned yesterday when his boat capsized on the bar at the mouth of the Clarence River. Mr Jim Bultitude, about 40, was trapped in the wheelhouse of the 24-metre Sea Dreamer which rolled over on the bar as it was returning to port after picking up a small fishing dinghy involved in an earlier capsize.

“Mr Bultitude and Mr Bruce McPherson had beached the dinghy at a nearby cove and were returning across the bar when Sea Dreamer was capsized by a big swell. Mr McPherson [who was awarded the ‘highest Royal Humane Society award for bravery in the Commonwealth a year later’ (SMH)] rescued Mr Bultitude from the wheelhouse after diving several times. The two spent more than half an hour in the water before boats, guided by CB radio operators on a nearby headland, reached them.

“Lifesavers on the rescue boat

gave Mr Bultitude heart massage and mouth-to-mouth respiration, but he was dead when the boat reached shore.”

They take six to eight months to build. I make the hull; get the shape, then build whatever cabins. I take it off a real ship, but I just look at it and make it with no plans.

Brian, 79, who grew up in Grafton, came to Yamba with Caryl in 1973, where they “learned the oyster farming business”, traded as Clarence River Oysters and operated a seafood/butcher shop until Brian retired in 1993 – quite a diversion of occupations for a man who previously worked as a hairdresser in Maryborough.

While Brian made his first model following that fateful event, once he retired it became a way to fill his days; his motivation mostly tactile and personal satisfaction. “I just love doing it. What do I get out of it? The finished product.

They take six to eight months to build. I make the hull; get the shape, then build whatever cabins. I take it off a real ship, but I just look at it and make it with no plans.

“I use any scrap of wood I can find – mostly pine – anything I get that is solid.”

Brian taps one of the three boats he has on display. “This boat is hollow,” he says. “I don’t make them anymore – they’re a pain in the arse (laughs).”

life GEOFF HELISMA

I ask if he has any projects on the go. He says there’s one in the shed.

It’s his sanctuary of sorts, where he gets lost creating his labours of love.

There are hand tools hanging on their wall hooks and scattered on the benches among paint cans, electric drills, saws and planers ... organised chaos typical of many men’s sheds.

“Sorry about the mess,” says Brian.

“No need for apologies Brian, I’ve just walked through a house that is cleaner and more orderly than a hospital.”

There’s a half finished boat underway and a completed model house, too. “It was the first manager’s house for AGL (Australian Gas and Light Co) in Grafton at 46 Pound Street. I lived there till I was 26. There used to be 11 of us in that house – Dad and Mum had it for about 50 years; my sister had it after that. It had three bedrooms and a sleep-out at the front.”

Brian says he once had some photographs of the house, but they went missing. So he modelled it from memory. “I always liked Grafton, always went past the house. It started falling to pieces, so I thought I’d build it (laughs) again; it’s not there anymore.

“It’s stopping in the family; all my brothers and sister are almost gone now – I’m the youngest boy.”

“How much do you charge to build a boat?”

“Well, I make them mostly for fun.

You only get about a cent an hour, because I spend eight hours on them, of a day. I do it because I like doing it, but if someone wants to buy one, I’ll sell it.”

Back upstairs, where a lot of the furniture and cupboards are Brian’s creations, too, I ask Caryl: “What’s your story as the long suffering wife?”

Brian Wilkes has a close affinity with fishing trawlers. Trader Horn (centre), “owned by Robert Toyer”, and Sea Dreamer (left) have been involved in rescues on the Clarence River bar.

The trawler at right, christened ‘Spartan’, says Brian, was created “out of my own head”.

Images: Geoff Helisma

“As long as Brian has his tin shed out the back he’ll be happy. No, not really,” she laughs.

“He’s always just worked seven days a week in our businesses. He’d get up at 5.30 in the morning and be home at 6.30 at night. There was never any [spare] time – it was just after he retired, although he did make the Sea Dreamer after it went down.

“It’s just to fill in time really; it keeps him down in the shed (laughs). It’s a bit boring, but he’s always been able to fix things. Back in the day, you couldn’t just go to Beachside Bargains or a hardware store and buy things off a big rack, could you?

You can just buy everything now.

Well, he just used to fix everything.

Make things that you just buy by the dozens now for nothing.”

“So, Brian is a man of doing and you’re a woman of thinking?”

“That’s me!” Caryl retorts.

“I plan everything, the colours and things like that.”

“I’m the doer,” Brian interjects.

“You can only have one bright one in the family (laughs).”

“Does that make Caryl the boss?”

“Yeah, no,” says Caryl.

Brian laughs, “That goes around, doesn’t it?”

“No, we have a demarcation line,” says Caryl. “Like, that’s his area and that’s my area.

“I was doing the books; we had 23 staff at one point. There was no computer to do the bookwork – it was horrendous, and it was on top of doing the doctor’s surgery books for 25 years.”

I decline an offer of a beer and have water instead; anyway, another story awaits and we say our goodbyes.

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CALL OF THE PIPES

Oh Danny boy the pipes, the pipes are calling / from glen to glen and down the mountain side’, comes to mind, despite its lyricist, Frederic Weatherly, being an Englishman who set his words to an ancient Irish melody – but Maclean is known as the ‘Scottish town in Australia’.

As it turns out, for these six pipers – Murdo Macleod, Lyle Essex, Matt McLeod, Alistair Wallace, Ross McLachlan and Alister Smith – the calling of the pipes is a real thing, the lure of which they cannot deny.

Paul McCartney’ Mull of Kintyre features bagpipes playing the song’s melody – and it’s probably the most well-known tune played with the traditional instrument.

When McCartney played for 40,000 people at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium in December last year, he needed a pipe band to perform the song: Alister Smith, the Maclean band’s president, along with fellow band members, Mandy Pateman (tenor drum), Laura Sanford (snare drum) and piper Scott Rhodes, were a part of the band.

“It was a bit accidental,” says Smith. “McCartney normally works with police or military bands, who are usually professional pipers, but the Queensland police were unable to do it for reasons I’m not sure of. About a week before, we got a notice: are you interested in playing?

“It was through the Ipswich Pipe Band and they invited whoever wanted to, to come up, because they needed 16 pipers. It’s a set number on stage, of a particular configuration. We got the music on the Saturday. It wasn’t difficult to learn because it’s sort of the music that you get requested to play at weddings.”

When it comes to describ-

‘

Murdo Macleod

Lyle Essex

GEOFF HELISMA

It’s 4pm on Saturday February 10 and six members of the Maclean and District Pipe Band are practising for the upcoming highland gathering on March 30 and 31. The temperature is hovering around 32 degrees in the shade, but the humidity is off the scale. The pipers are working on their parts, sweltering, with only fleeting moments of relief as wispy clouds cloak the sun’s searing rays. It’s business as usual.

Ross McLachlan Matt Mcleod

Alistair Wallace

Images: Geoff Helisma

ing the emotion stirred from playing before 40,000 people, Smith says the annual Easter Saturday street parade along River Street, Maclean is as close as he has come to how he felt. “I’ve been to Suncorp Stadium for football games and things like that, but there was just a sea of people. That drone sound came first, and the crowd just went [lost for words] ... you know, I had a feeling that just went straight through me; a euphoric sort of a thing, which I sort of hadn’t ever experienced before.”

Smith, 49, says playing bagpipes is a “family thing”.

“My uncle was player, my brother played before me.

I don’t know if I had much choice at the start; it was almost forced upon me. I was about 10. I haven’t regretted it since that first year. I didn’t question it after I was about six months in.”

Pipe major Murdo Macleod, 48, declares: “The great highland bagpipes is the best instrument in the world! It’s the sound of the drones, the pitch of the chanter (the part you play the tunes on) and how they all blend in.”

Macleod began his love affair with the instrument as a 10-year-old in Scotland. “It was offered in the schools and it was a good way of getting out of routine schoolwork,” he chuckles. “I loved it from the get go.”

Among each of the pipers, competing compels a desire to ‘be as one’. “You’re always thinking about how to make this a little bit better by, like, tweaking various things ... either sharpening the chanters a little bit, or retuning the drones. It’s my responsibility to make sure everyone’s pipes are air-efficient and not wasting energy. We’ve had some successful contests over the

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years. I would say [highlights include] the third at the New Zealand grade 3 championships; and we came second in grade 4 in 2002.

“It’s all about the social aspect of it, too; to meet up with like-minded people and play music. So much work goes into preparing for a competition. When we play down the street at MacMarkets day ... there’s no pressure, we sit round and have a few drinks and play a few tunes, but when you’re getting ready for a competition, we just want to put our best performance on the park. We started practising in the second week of January and we’ll probably keep that going right through until maybe October.”

“It’s in your blood; you hear the skirl of the pipes and it raises the hairs on the back of your neck; especially when you hear a nice tune. I not only enjoy it; I love it!

It’s been my life.”

While Lyle Essex, 74, didn’t get to play at the McCartney concert, he does have some history with the song.

“When I was playing with a band in Brisbane, when Mull of Kintyre came out, I believe we were the first pipe band to play it with a concert band on stage ... it went very well.”

Essex has played with three pipe bands over the past 50 years. “I started out with the Maclean pipe band in 1967 as a tenor drummer and I went to the bass drum when my second oldest brother gave it away. Then I got on the pipes and they wouldn’t let me go back to the drums.”

In 1970, he joined a band in Brisbane, where he stayed for 14 years. “Then I came back and played with the Bellingen River Pipe Band and had six years with them, then I came back home.”

His son and two daughters have played their parts, too. “They were

in the band in the middle 1990s. We had a very successful band then, playing up in grade 3 and won the Queensland state championships on quite a number of occasions. One of the girls is a tenor drummer, the other played the bass drum and my son is a snare drummer.”

While drums, it’s the bagpipes that hold centre stage. “It’s in your blood; you hear the skirl of the pipes and it raises the hairs on the back of your neck; especially when you hear a nice tune. I not only enjoy it; I love it!

It’s been my life.”

“Tradition” says Matt McLeod, 44, “was the major factor” that propelled him towards the bagpipes. We were given a choice of three instruments when we were little. One was guitar, one was piano and one was the noisy thing. I used to come down to the highland gathering at Easter time and thought, ‘Yeah, that’ll do me.’ I was about eight.”

He says the “opportunity to travel” is the highlight of his time with the instrument. “I’ve been to Scotland twice; and I’ve played in the world championships twice. I’ve played for the Prime Minister and a couple of the McLeod chiefs at airports and stuff like that.”

Despite the oppressive conditions, McLeod says he’s feeling inspired.

“The more you practise, the better you are. Practice is everything, so practise, practise, practise. I could keep going today, because that was a good practice, the sound was good. Everyone gets in a zone; you bounce off each other and become one. That’s what we’ve got to achieve as a band. The ultimate is to become one complete band – drumming, ensemble and piping.”

Alistair Wallace, 49, has been playing bagpipes since he was an 11-year-old and says he “hopefully has a long way to go”.

“My grandfather played pipes, and these are his pipes. Apparently, I just asked, ‘Where can I get some lessons?’ I went over after a highland gathering and said, ‘When can I do that?’”

He’s a man of few words today and is matter-of-fact when asked about the highlights of his career.

Maclean and District Pipe Band president Alister Smith and tenor drummer Mandy Pateman moments before they stepped on stage at Paul McCartney Suncorp Stadium concert for 40,000 people in Brisbane. Image: Contributed

“Oh, winning solo competitions, like the Mrs Donald McSwan event in Maclean here. It’s a pretty prestigious one local to Maclean. I’ve enjoyed winning that a few times.”

Is competition an important part of what you do? “Yeah; it keeps you interested in learning.” “‘There’re no drums in this house!’ says Ross McLachlan, remembering his father’s words 46 years ago after he told him he wanted to be a drummer. “I’ve played in the Maclean band all of my life. I’ve only missed two highland gatherings.”

He regards playing in the band as “a team sport – one in, all in” and the highlight of his career is becoming a “life member of the band, which was a big plus to me, and meant a lot”.

And it is Maclean that really gets his adrenalin flowing. “I’ve played in many places during those 46 years, but it’s probably pretty hard to beat the Maclean Highland Gathering.

We did gatherings when we were in Scotland; but they are nothing to what Maclean is. When you’ve got the biggest country gathering in Australia and when you see gatherings in Scotland, you’ve got to go to a super major championship to see something as big as you see here.

“Even Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne, you’d be lucky to see the size of the competition; and the crowd we have here blows them all out of the water.

“It’s where you want to be on Easter Saturday.”

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HOW FAITH AND A VISION

CHANGES LI CH LIVES LYNNE MOWBRAY

An aerial shot of Sherwood Cliffs Christian Rehab Centre. Image: Geoff Mason

ucked away on a rural farm at the foot of towering sandstone cliffs is Sherwood Cliffs Christian Rehab Centre.

Hidden but not hiding, the property which is located 10 kilometres east of Glenreagh, between Coffs Harbour and Grafton, has just celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Hundreds turned out to celebrate with Jean-Pierre [J-P or John] and Honi Reifler who have run one of Australia’s most successful rehab centres, from a vision inspired “Jean-Pierre and Honi Reifler

by God, decare a Christian couple ades ago.

T

who run a very successful drug and alcohol rehabilitation program at Sherwood Cliffs.

They do this by making people feel wanted and useful.

They have a high success rate and run the centre without any Government funding.”

Jean-Pierre Reifler grew up in St Gallen, Switzerland in a normal home and attended Sunday School under sufferance. In Andrew Frazer MP his teenage - Member for Coffs Harbour years he got into a fair bit of mischief stealing cars etc. He ended up doing an apprenticeship as a mechanic, before migrating to Australia in 1969 to find adventure, fun freedom and sunshine.

J-P [Jean-Pierre] had only been in Australia a short time when a near death experience, was to change his life forever.

He’d been swimming at a beach

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in Sydney when he got caught in a rip which swept him out to sea.

As he was drowning, he said he knew he was going to hell.

Luckily J-P was rescued and resuscitated by lifesavers. But this terrifying experience did not end there.

For the next few weeks J-P could not shake a constant voice inside his head, which disturbed him greatly.

He said that it was like a man standing on a hill and he only heard one word – God. J-P had no idea what was happening to him and thought that he must be suffering from brain damage caused by his near drowning.

At this time he was sharing a house with other young migrants in Sydney and J-P explained to one of them about this voice echoing in his head.

“Walter, I’m going mad. I keep hearing this voice in my head, saying one word - God.” Walter who grew up in a Christian family but was living far from a Christian life, suggested that maybe J-P ought to go and read a bible.

J-P told Walter what he could do with that thought!

J-P continued to try and drown out the voice with heavy drinking; but to no avail.

One night he was at home by himself and pondering the futility of life and on the verge of suicide, when he came across a bible that his mother had packed inside his sea chest, when he migrated.

As he sat and began to read it, a

warm sensation began to travel up through his body and he was overwhelmed by a feeling of relief. J-P was reduced to tears. This was to be the turning point in his life. That night his desire for alcohol disappeared and he never drank again.

Not long after this, J-P and Walter applied to go and work as mechanics, on missions in New Guinea.

As they headed north to fly out of Darwin they stopped at Coffs Harbour and stayed with a Swiss family, who Walter knew. While there the men assisted in the building of a shed, but Walter was seriously injured and had to spend several weeks in hospital.

On Sunday, the old Swiss man said, ‘well, you eat my food, you sleep in my bed and you go to my church.’

So J-P began attending the Methodist Church in Coffs Harbour.

Honi had grown up in a loving family, in country NSW. In 1970 she travelled to Japan as a Rotary exchange student. She lived in a little village in northern Japan; the first foreigner to ever live in that village.

Honi said that she was totally immersed in this new culture, but missed the English language.

“I’d only been in Japan for about a month and had no English whatsoever in that time,” said Honi.

“I was an academic at school and was always pursuing knowledge. I’d studied French, but not

After 40 years of running Sherwood Cliffs, J-P and Honi Reifler (left) have stepped aside; handing over the management role at Sherwood to Colin, Chantal Kemsley (Right with baby Honi Blossom). Image: Lynne Mowbray

Japanese and I was just hanging out for something to read in English.

“I’d remembered that my grandmother had given me a bible which I took with me, as I loved her very dearly and it was something to remind me of her. My best friend had also given me a devotional booklet, so I began reading these,” she said.

During the next 11 months, Honi said she had the most incredible experience as her faith [in her creator] grew.

When Honi returned to Australia in August, 1971, her parents had sold their grocery store in the country and had moved to Coffs Harbour.

After settling in, they started attending the Methodist church.

Within days of arriving back in Australia, Honi and J-P met and within six months, the couple were married.

Honi said that the early 70’s was a time of young people dropping out of school and university and they were on the road looking for ‘Nirvana’ and so often they were getting their brains cooked with marijuana and mushrooms.

“It was the beginning of that whole hippie revolution and that

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search for truth, but so often they swallowed a lie instead of the truth,” said Honi.

“Before J-P and I met, he was picking up hitchhikers on the Pacific Highway and sharing his faith with them, before dropping them off further up the road.

“A lot of them were very unstable and we would often wonder what happens to these disturbed people,” she said.

Honi said that after returning from Japan, she got a job at the Coffs Harbour Hospital.

“One night about 10pm J-P picked me up from work at the end of my shift and told me that we had to go down to Charlesworth Bay [near where Pacific Bay Resort is now located, in Coffs Harbour],” said Honi.

“He told me, ‘when I was mowing the grass on the hill above there today, I saw someone down there and their car was half hidden in the lantana. I feel that I really need to go down there and talk to them.’

“We ventured down this little dirt track and came across a dishevelled looking bloke with long greasy hair. He was crouched down cooking a fish over a small fire.

The beginning of the Sherwood Cliffs Christian Rehab Centre, 40 years ago, in 1978. Image: contributed.

“As we approached he called out to us, ‘who are you?

“J-P said, ‘I’m John and this is my girlfriend Honi.’

“The man then asked, ‘well who sent you?

“J-P answered, ‘God did!

“With that the man jumped up and started beating the roof of his car with his fists, screaming out, ‘why, why now?

“We settled him down and sat back down beside the fire.

“The man told us that he was on his way to Bellingen to kill his wife and her boyfriend. They had taken off from Victoria and he had finally tracked them down. He had a machete in his car and he was well and truly psyched up for the job,” she said.

After they had settled the man down they were once again faced with the question as to what to do with him – they could hardly leave him there.

The man stayed the night at Honi’s parent’s home, before leaving the next morning.

But this experience, along with many others, got them thinking.

“We had to do more to help these people. They were messed up and needed help,” said Honi.

“I have talked to Honi Reifler on and off over the last 10 years.

During the 2011 Toowoomba floods I played a song ‘Gumboots’.

I’d heard about Honi’s painted gumboot with frogs on it, which had won first prize at the Cobram Show.

She gave it to us and we took it around with us and sat it on the front of the stage at concerts for people to put money in towards the flood relief.

Honi is a very creative and talented artist, which is just another facet of her life, to that at Sherwood Cliffs.

Each year around Australia Day I give an award out to recognise the unheralded and wonderful work done by ordinary everyday Aussies, who are just out there ‘getting it done’.

It’s to let the rest of Australia know; and this year’s recipient of my ‘Australia All Over’ award is Honi Reifler.”

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“I was honoured to take part and celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Sherwood Cliffs Christian Rehab Centre.

My parents owned a service station in Glenreagh during the 1970’s and I grew up with my mum and dad talking about Sherwood Cliffs and the amazing work being done there. They were both strong advocates of J-P and Honi. It’s an incredible place and I have always felt a connection with Sherwood Cliffs.

Sadly, alcohol and drug addiction are running rife in our community and they’re taking over people’s lives.

Outside my role as a councillor I work with people with mental health issues and drug and alcohol abuse is one of the largest causes of mental health issues.

It saddens me to hear how drugs and alcohol have taken control over their lives. On a personal note, I have had a close family member who had their life ruined by drug and alcohol abuse.

Substance abuse not only affects the user; it greatly impacts on the family around them.

John and Honi made their way to Coffs Harbour and Sherwood Cliffs “on fumes and faith”. Through their belief, hard work and faith have transformed, rehabilitated and restored the lives of thousands of individuals and their families.”

Councillor Jason Kingsley - Clarence Valley Council

One of the ‘seekers’ accommodation. Image: Lynne Mowbray

“It was heavy on our hearts and we prayed for guidance.

“Both of us, separately, but on the same night, had a vision; That we were to set up a place where people like this could come and have time to grow, mentally, physically and spiritually,” Honi said.

After the couple married they set off to Western Australia in their orange combi bus.

Along the way, Honi said they would stop and help out people who were broken down on the side of the road.

“While John was fixing the car, I’d make them a cuppa tea and we would share our story with them,” said Honi.

After reaching Western Australia, they were still unsure as to what they were to do and once again they drew on their faith, for an answer.

The couple realised that they needed to stay in Western Australia and use it as a training ground – which they did. John was quickly employed as a youth worker by an Aboriginal Church and Honi took up Occupational Therapy studies at Curtin University. The couple stayed there until 1977.

Throughout this training period they remained focussed on their vision, although they were still unsure as to where this would take place.

Honi said that they had returned to Coffs Harbour to visit with their family and during that visit J-P walked into a real estate agents office to ask about property.

“I’m looking for an isolated farm, a property not necessarily with any houses on it, but with only one entrance and permanent water,” he told the agent.

The agent said, “Well, I was in the pub drinking with a bloke last night; he was pretty under the weather, but he said to me ‘put my farm on the market – it’s out the back of Glenreagh.’

The owner who lived in Sawtell, told the agent that there was an

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orchard on the property and people would come on to the property and help themselves to the fruit, but they would leave the gate open and his cattle were always getting out and he was sick of having the neighbour phoning him constantly to go out and get them.

Honi said that after walking on the property [130 acres – 80 acres cleared and 50 acres bush], they just knew that this was the land!

“We needed to be sure though, before we went ahead and bought it,” said Honi.

“The property was $13,000 and we had one month to find the $1000 deposit, which is not much in today’s terms, but back then it was way out of our league.

“We felt that we weren’t to tell anybody about it or ask anybody for assistance. If we could miraculously get that money, then that would be the confirmation. Within the month, we had the money.

“On the basis of that, we put our house on the market in Perth. It was a five bedroom brick and tile house, which we had bought for $16,000.

We had it for three and a half years and when we sold it, we made $15,000 profit. It was perfect timing.

“As the work began [at Sherwood Cliffs] we continued to live by faith; we weren’t to touch any government money, we had no bank loans, we weren’t to solicit for funds and we weren’t to ask people for what we needed – only God,” said Honi.

In the early days, train carriages were brought in to the property over winding dirt roads, to provide housing for both the staff and ‘seekers’ [the name given to those seeking help and hope, for a new life].

When word got around about these people starting a Christian drug rehabilitation farm, they were flooded with donations and assistance, of every description.

They were given a cow and a calf, a passing back-hoe driver offered to dig a bigger dam, a

friend offered to fix a slasher and tractor and building materials were donated for foundations.

Visitors would turn up bearing gifts, tradesmen would offer their services and lifelong friends would be made over the next 40 years.

Today Sherwood Cliffs continues to operate as a Christian drug rehabilitation centre.

“Before attending the facility, seekers have to acknowledge that they have a problem and that they want help for that problem. They also know that this rehab facility is ‘cold turkey withdrawal’ and that it is a Christian rehab facility,” said Honi.

“This is far from an institution; it’s a farm friendly family atmosphere. No one wears uniforms or name badges. The staff go through staff training and their approach is that ‘there but for the grace of God go I’ [or any member of my family].

“It’s a working farm and part of the rehab is vocational training and retraining.

“Some of the seekers have had trades and careers, but because of the abuse, they have lost confidence and ability and so because it’s a working farm, they have the opportunity to regain what they have lost.

“The farm produces as much as possible to support the facility in the way of food production; dairy cows, beef cattle, chooks, banana plantation, a huge orchard and produce gardens.

“The seekers work with the staff and learn basic living skills and training in all these areas,” she said.

In 2007, J-P and Honi’s daughter Chantal and husband Colin Kemsley, joined the staff.

Colin, who was a former seeker himself at the age of 20, had firsthand experience of not only how the program worked, but how it could change lives.

In 2015, with age creeping up on them, J-P and Honi realised that if

they didn’t step aside, their vision would die with them.

“So J-P and I moved into directorship roles and [with seven years of training onboard], Colin and Chantal took over the management; not just to carry it on as we did, but to carry it into the future,” said Honi.

Several books have been written over the years about the countless miracles that have shaped Sherwood Cliffs and the addicts whose lives have been changed.

In April 1978 Sherwood Cliff’s first official seeker arrived; it was a heroin addict who was almost at the point of death, who was directed to Sherwood by a visitor.

Since then, around 700 people have been given a second chance at life. Not all have been successful, but countless others have had their lives turned around thanks to the faith and vision of the Reifler’s, who give all credit for everything they do, to God. Over the years the many blessings and countless miracles which have taken place, are too many to number and more than just a mere coincidence.

The proof of the success of Sherwood Cliffs is still evident today, as 40 years later; their remarkable faith, vision and compassion continues to rebuild broken lives.

Sherwood’s vision and mission to: refresh the weary, refocus the lost and rebuild the broken, has stood the test of time and will continue into the future because of their vision, hard work and faith in God.

For more information about Sherwood Cliffs: Sherwood Christian Rehab Centre P O Box 2 GLENREAGH NSW 2450 Ph. 6649 2139 Email: info@sherwoodcliffs.com.au Web: www.sherwoodcliffs.com.au

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THE CLARENCE VALLEY IS A GORGEOUS PLACE FOR A WEDDING AND OUR WEDDING FEATURE PROVIDES YOU WITH PLENTY OF INFORMATION ON LOCAL VENDORS, VENUES AND PHOTO SHOOT LOCATIONS. WE HAVE SOME GREAT HINTS AND TIPS AND LOOK AT A COUPLE OF REAL LIFE WEDDINGS; SO START PLANNING THE WEDDING OF YOUR DREAMS TODAY.

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Yamba Weddings & Events Image: The Sea Society Photography Couple: Emma and Aaron March 2018

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MY TOP

WEDDING LOCATIONS LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER BUFFY WILLIAMS(MJ=DINJI DIVULGES HER FAVOURITE SPOTS TO SHOOT WEDDINGS IN THE CLARENCE

hoose the photo that you love the most and tell us why you love it and what you did or what the couple did to enable you to capture that moment?

I have a number of shots from every job I work on that I love. I don’t have a particular shot that is a number one. My objective is to create a series of very memorable shots for every wedding I am given the privilege of capturing.

So, to answer this question would mean that I would need to go through every wedding I have shot and select the shot/s I love. There is so many. I am sure you would say too many!

I do like to do a pre-wedding (engagement shoot) prior to the wedding where possible as it tends to ensure that come the wedding day everyone is very natural in front of the camera and there is not any staging. The prewedding shoot allows the bride and groom to understand the ease of how I shoot and how comfortable I make them feel (all very natural - almost as if I am not there but at the same time providing direction to ensure they are confident with the process).

On the big day, that is one less thing that they need to worry

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about and they tend to be very natural and relaxed.

What are your top 5 locations in the Clarence Valley for wedding photos and why?

Coming from a magazine publishing and fashion background, I have worked on thousands of amazing locations all over the world.

But, I must say - the Clarence Valley (where I grew up and now reside with my family) really does offer absolutely everything.

The Clarence Valley is one of NSW’s most well kept secrets. Once known aV the ‘land of milk and honey’. The Clarence Valley offers both a coastal and beach charm which is quite unique.

From some of the most amazing coastal locations such as Green Point, Main Beach, Turners Beach, Convent Beach, Pippi Beach, Yamba Lighthouse and Angourie Beaches Wo the most amazing country locations such as the Old Kirk, Wynyabbie House, River Shack, Riverside Ranch and Farms Stays.

I am always finding new locations as well as shooting old locations in new ways.

There really is something for everyone here in the Clarence Valley.

Image: The Sea Society Photography

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Emma and Aaron

REAL LIFE WEDDING WE LOVE A GOOD LOVE STORY: EMMA AND AARON CHOSE YAMBA AS THEIR WEDDING LOCATION, BEACAUSE THEY STOPPED HERE ON ONE OF THEIR FIRST TRIPS AWAY TOGETHER AND FELL IN LOVE WITH THE TOWN. WHAT A GORGEOUS WEDDING!

Couple - Emma and Aaron / Photographer - The Sea Society / Cocktail Hour - Wynyabbie House / Ceremony - The Old Kirk / Reception - Yamba Golf Club

Making your wedding a success - is our specialty -

MAKING YOUR WEDDING A SUCCESS IS OUR SPECIALTY amba Golf & Country Club is one of Yamba's finest wedding locations with two beautiful reception venues and two ceremony spaces available.

The Auditorium is the perfect private venue for a formal wedding, complete with a parquetry dance floor, stage and bar and can cater for up to 140 guests.

The Deck is a new, modern, open air space which can seat up to 80 guests, overlooking the stunning golf course.

A diverse range of delicious, locally sourced food options including cocktail style canape food, plated menus, or buffets are available and teamed with your

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Yamba Golf & Country Club can also cater for all of your extra celebratory events including your engagement party, pre-wedding golf day or post-wedding breakfast. Why not let them create a whole package to suit your individual needs.

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www.yambagolf.com.au March 2018

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IT’S BEAUTIFUL HERE how to light up your wedding...

like Jess & Josh

t started with a love story, now a local Grafton couple Katie and Michael Dwyer have a thriving business to help you create your own dream wedding.

When Katie and Micheal got married they knew they wanted a marquee for their wedding, but they couldn't find what they wanted in the valley, so they set about creating their own. On their wedding day guests gathered at the property under their new marquee adorned with lights and locally sourced and debarked Eucalyptus Cloeziana poles varnished by themselves.

Needless to say it was a hit and they had their first booking for the

you are having a twilight ceremony, it's also the perfect backdrop for photos.

Lighting works well on tent poles, when budget restricts, you can also look at adding greenery to make your own statement, think eucalyptus leaves, palm fronds, look around your venue to see if you have any greenery you can use to decorate.

If your still not sure if you have enough lights, you might want to consider some table lighting to compliment the lights you've used on the marquee itself. This will make sure everyone can see what they are eating and battery powered candles or fairy lights make novel fairy favours

that your guests can take away with them at the end of the night.

Choose warm globes, they make a soft, warm light and are most popular for weddings.

All this said don't overdo it, sometimes less is more and you want to make sure you are not spoiling the romantic ambience by having too many lights in one place.

If you are looking for a stress free marquee with just the right amount of lighting, why not get in touch, Katie and Michael have been setting up and lighting marquees for many beautiful weddings in the Clarence Valley.

Willow Tree Marquees 0428 424 953

Images: Ben Wyeth Photography

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next event... the rest is history, Willow Tree Marquee's was born.

We asked Micheal for some tips on how to create the wedding of your dreams with lighting.

If you are having a marquee there are a few ways to light it: Zig zag lighting - For maximum effect use zig zag lighting on the outer fringe of your marquee and a central line of lights also work well down the middle of a marquee.

Rope Lighting - These are great for the ropes, they not only look great, but they serve to highlight the tent ropes for safety reasons.

Aisle Lighting - Aisle lighting creates a dramatic effect, especially if

we love YOUR STYLE JESS & JOSH Shoes: Saint Laurent (bride and groom) Other jewellery: heirlooms, grandmother’s jade brooch and pearl bracelet. Earnings Perlita Sydney.

Marquee: Willow Tree Marquees DJ: Jank Facques Lighting: Willow Tree Marquees Photography: Ben Wyeth Photography

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU

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Our stylists are fabulous friendly and ready to take care of you. They are passionate about hair and love what they do.

They regularly visit GOLDWELL’s Academy to update their skills to keep up with latest trends.

We stock and use GOLDWELL hair care and colour. GOLDWELL is the top of the line when it comes to colour with results you’ll love.

The line includes, permanent, demi, blonding products and a patent-pending product called Elumen which allows you to create incredibly vibrant colours that actually stay in your hair!

We are currently offering “come try us $25.00 Voucher� which is perfect for brides or anyone who wants to come in and experience our salon.

Alex and Kate

REAL LIFE WEDDING

Couple - Alex and Kate / Photographer - Ryan Shepherd Photography Facebook @ryanshepherdphotography / Ceremony & Reception - Midginbil Hill Eco Resort

YOU MEET SOMEONE AND YOU JUST KNOW THAT IS THE PERSON YOU WANT TO SPEND THE REST OF YOUR LIFE WITH: WHEN ALEX MET KATE, HE KNEW THERE WOULD BE NO-ONE ELSE. SHE WOULD ALWAYS BE HIS SOUL MATE!

Where did you first meet?

We first met at an O-week party at college where I was a little intoxicated. It took me another 5 months before I spoke to her again.

How long after you met did you pop the question?

We were together for 5 years before I asked Kate to marry me.

Where and how did you pop the question?

I took her to Dudley beach, we were the only ones there. I told her to look at something on the headland and when she turned around I was on one knee.

Was it a surprise?

She was shocked and I had to ask twice. She grabbed the ring before she even answered the question.

Who picked the engagement ring and did you have it when you popped the question?

Kate had been dropping hints for quite a while, sending me plenty of pictures of rings that she liked.

How long did it take you to organise the wedding?

It took us a few months to start organising anything, but all up we were engaged for a bit over a year.

Did you use a wedding planner?

How did this make a difference?

We hired a co-ordinator who helped with some of the styling and looked after all the setup on the day. This made a huge difference on the day as we didn’t have to run around setting up chairs or laying out the reception. It made for a much more

relaxed weekend.

Where did you get married and where was the reception held?

The reception and ceremony was at Midginbil Hill Eco resort, near Murwillumbah. We were married under a large fig tree with a beautiful view of Mount Warning.

Is there anything that you wish you had of known before you got married?

How much fun it would be.

We would have done it sooner.

What do you think was the most important thing in regards to your wedding?

How relaxed it was. It was a very relaxed affair and I think it made it a lot more enjoyable for everyone involved.

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ENGAGEMENT RING TRENDS 2018

FIND YOUR perfect match

Choosing an engagement ring which reflects your personality and style should be a fun and exciting process. The engagement ring stone’s size, colour, shape and proportions for maximum brilliance are all elements that will help channel your personal tastes and characteristics of your chosen ring.

With so many engagement ring styles available, the options can seem endless – especially with all the stunning engagement ring trends in 2018. From unique shapes to three stone beauty to classic solitaire to bright colour, this year’s engagement ring trends will soon have you saying “I do”.

CLASSICAL SOLITAIRE Harveys Jewellers own Bluefire Diamond brilliant shape solitaires set in rings of white or yellow metals lift the diamond off the band and into the light, producing a scintillation like no other. This classic style will never go out of style and 2018 is no different with the year’s transition towards more simple, clean lines of the solitaire style. Whilst the traditional brilliant (round) cut will continue to be a main stay there is also a trend towards oval and emerald cuts.

OVAL SHAPE The most recent stand out diamond shape has definitely been the

oval. The elongated cut of the oval shape diamond creates a size illusion as oval shapes usually appear larger next to the same size round or square cut shape. The Oval shape is elegant and can make your fingers appear more slender. This cut, which lends a vintage vibe to any setting, is gaining popularity for its unique and impressive look.

EMERALD CUT DIAMOND There is a growing trend towards an Emerald Cut diamond. The rectangular emerald cut diamond is several rows of step cuts which creates flashes of light known as the hall

of mirrors effect. The style has been around for a little while but the trend is getting even stronger this year.

An Emerald cut diamond is a great way to take a simple silhouette and make a unique engagement ring.

THREE STONE (TRILOGY) DESIGN The three stone engagement ring is precisely that, three beautiful diamonds with the centre stone being slightly larger as the shining star. This is a classic style which will never go out of fashion. Reflect on the high profile engagement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle with her stunning three stone engagement ring.

This and other high profile engagements will result in the three stone

engagement ring trend to significantly increase throughout 2018.

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A SPLASH OF COLOUR Traditional white diamonds, such as Harveys Jewellers own Bluefire Diamonds, will continue to be strong but you can’t ignore the continuing trend of colour! Yellow, pink and black diamonds as well as the uniqueness of Harveys Jewellers Australian Dreamtime diamonds will continue to be a favourite. You will also see the trend of brighter hues

including the deep blue Sapphire, the royal colour of Amethyst (remembering Ultra Violet is 2018 Pantone colour of the year) and vibrant green Emeralds.

WEDDING RINGS Whilst choosing a wedding ring should complement your engagement ring it is all a part of expressing your personal style. Personalising your wedding ring stack (engagement, wedding and eternity rings) is a major player in the 2018 engagement ring trends. Whilst some engagement rings are designed with coordinating wedding rings, mixing and matching is a great

option in 2018. Consider matching weddings rings with your partner.

Whatever you decide we do recommend personalisation of wedding rings to customise such sentimental pieces of jewellery.

YOUR PERFECT RING FOR YOUR PERFECT PRICE When looking for the perfect ring at the perfect price it is crucial to find a jewellery store you trust. This is a special process which requires someone to really guide you through the process.

Just like your wedding gown, try on as many rings as you can and have fun! Once the ring is on your hand you will then ensure you choose the right metal colour, stone shape and ring design to suit.

BUILD YOUR RING STACK! Always look at how the engagement ring design sits with a wedding and eternity rings to ensure you are in love with your final ring look.

Visit your friends at Harveys Diamond Jewellers Grafton and have some fun choosing your perfect engagement ring tailored to your perfect price.

PARTY PACKAGES

HEN’S PARTIES

Take the stress out of organizing your next gathering.

If you don’t want the typical tacky hens party or you’re looking for something modern, different and unique for your hen’s party why not try these local packages.

You can choose from the list and add in any activity you would like for your event.

Packages include either picnic style grazing tables, large grazing table or boards with either mimosa bar or herbal teas depending on the package.

Available for all occasions Hens // Babyshowers // Womens Cirlces/Blessingways // Birthdays // Pre Wedding pampering // Girls Gatherings // Honeymoons // Christmas parties and more.

Activities include: - Beauty treatments - Flower crown making - DIY skincare - DIY macramĂŠ - Belly dancing - Life drawing - Henna tattooing - Blessingways Ph: There She Glows on 041 203 4155 for more information

with a difference TRY A NEW SPIN ON HEN’S PARTIES. START WITH A SIMPLE FLOWER CROWN D.I.Y THAT EVERYONE CAN MAKE, FOLLOWED

BY SOME PAMPERING FROM A MAKEUP ARTIST. ALL WHILE EATING AT A SIMPLE GRAZING TABLE AND SIPPING CHILLED CHAMPAGNE. ONCE THE BRIDE IS LOOKING AND FEELING FABULOUS, TAKE HER OUT FOR SOME ELEGANT COCKTAILS SO SHE CAN SHOW OFF.

Photo credits: The Sea Society Photography | Little Gatherings - Grazing Table | Makeup and Parties: There She Glows

Create

YOUR DREAM WEDDING ON THE BEACH

tyle the wedding of your dreams at historic Yamba Surf Life Saving Club over looking Main Beach and the headland.

The upstairs function room has a carpeted area seating up to 120 people plus a timber dance floor (approx.11m x 5m) and an outside upstairs balcony area. Hire your favourite local band like Anna and Jed (facebook. com/annaandjed) or simply hook up your own music to the clubs existing facilities. A micro-

S

phone and rostrum are available for use for speeches if required.

There is a kitchen area which has recently won a grant to be refurbished and by August this year the club should have a fully operational commercial kitchen - perfect for weddings. You can decorate yourself or hire someone so you can enjoy the day at this perfect venue. Images below: styled by Monique at Yamba Weddings and Events.

Visit www.yambaweddingsandevents.com.au

ENJOY YOUR

dream wedding

AT THE BEST LOCATION IN YAMBA

5L HYVMRK SǽGI LSYVW Mon, Wed, Fri 9:30am - 12:30pm * SǽGI%]EQFEWPWG GSQ EY ]EQFEWPWG GSQ EY March 2018

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ON THE CLARENCE RIVER DISCOVER PANORAMIC RIVER VIEWS & THE BEST SUNSET IN TOWN IN AIR-CONDITIONED COMFORT

OPEN AIR DECK RIGHT ON THE WATER

PICK UP AND DROP OFF GUESTS IN THE LOCAL AREA

Lasting

MEMORIES A wedding is very special event to be enjoyed and remembered for years to come. A brilliant way to reduce the stress levels before the big day is to have the bridal parties’ bouquets prepared early; even weeks early!

At The Shop, there is a very extensive range of quality everlasting flowers which can be used in the bouquets, button holes and other wedding floral arrangements. No more concerns of which flowers are in season or that they will ‘wilt on a hot day’. Using quality artificial flowers is very ‘on trend’, and the bouquets become a lasting memory for the Bride, and a wonderful gift for

the Bridesmaids.

Entertaining your guest can also be made easy with some of the great yard games available at The Shop. Giant Jenga, Finska, and Quoits are just a few of the games that can be purchased or hired for the big day.

You will also find iron garden arches to make a beautiful centrepiece for a garden or beach service, as well as lovely tables just perfect for a signing table. The Shop can arrange rental for these items as well as larger floral items such as trees and plants.

Call in to The Shop and see the girls with your specific ideas for the Big Day.

The Shop Our ‘River Rooms’ are private with spectacular views of the beautiful Clarence River and seat up to 120 guests in airconditioned comfort, with a fully stocked bar available.

We also provide access to the private open air deck

172 Ryan Street South Grafton 0439 572 408

right on the river. There is ample space for a band or DJ and we’ll supply a dance floor. The room can be divided to offer a medium size seating solution or a small intimate wedding with a light spacious feel, still with the magnificent views.

COME IN AND CHAT WITH US ABOUT THE WIDE VARIETY OF MENU OPTIONS & STYLING PACKAGES

LET’S CREATE YOUR WEDDING TO REMEMBER ON THE RIVER Contact Penny (02)66452946 e. mlcsc@iinet.net.au 36/38 River Street Maclean 2463 WEDDINGS // ENGAGEMENTS // BIRTHDAYS // CHRISTENINGS // CELEBRATION OF LIFE // CORPORATE MEETINGS // SCHOOL FUNCTIONS // BUS GROUPS // TRADE SHOWS

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

theshopsouthgrafton • ǏǏ

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EFTPOS & LAYBY WELCOME

Amber & Ryan

REAL LIFE WEDDING A LOCAL LOVE STORY: A FEW SNAPS FROM AN OUTDOOR WEDDING AT ANGOURIE AND THE BEGINNING OF A BEAUTIFUL NEW BUSINESS GDOOG@ B<OC@MDIBN

Couple - Ryan and Amber Photographer - The Sea Society Photography Wedding Venue - Angourie Blue Pools Grazing Table & Cake - Little Gatherings

Where did you first meet?

We dated as teenagers for a while, then eight years ago we both ended up moving to the Gold Coast and started dating again.

How long after you met did Ryan pop the question?

We did things a bit backwards and had two children then got engaged, so after nearly four years I think.

Where and how did Ryan pop the question?

It was very romantic and is the reason I have added picnic proposals to my business for all the men that need a little help.

I was washing up on my birthday after our dinner plans fell through from overtired kids Ryan and my son came in with a big box that contained Moet, chocolates and a small box I thought they were new earrings EXW LW turned out it was a beautiful ring.

While my son was nagging to open the chocolates Ryan was on one knee trying to propose. I was still wearing my washing up gloves DQG my Pjâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and we looked over and our daughter had fallen asleep in her high chair into her dinner.

We did go for a beautiful dinner on the water the next evening though, without the kids {lol.} Was it a surprise?

Yes a complete surprise, we hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t talked much about getting married prior to that, we had two small children and Ryan had just started working for himself so I thought it would be a few more years off yet.

Who picked the engagement ring and did you have it when Ryan popped the question?

Ryan picked it the night before he proposed (heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very organised like that) he ended up choosing the exact style of ring I had dreamed of.

We had never looked at rings nor had I left any little hints lying around the house so I give him full credit on choosing the perfect ring for me. I did need to get it resized as it was way too big but the Legassick -ewellers let me keep it until my new one was ready.

How long did it take you to organise the wedding?

I started looking at ideas about 12 months before our wedding date but I really only organised things LQ the last three months and left a lot of things to the week before I only chose and ordered my wedding flowers from Brisbane markets three days before the wedding when my florist friend from Sydney came to stay 6he helped me do all the last bits Dnd pieces for the day.

I had just started my new business and my wedding plans become second priority, but I would recommend planning at least 18-12 months out to get the vendors you want DV the Clarence Valley is becoming very popular for weddings.

Did you use a wedding planner?

How did this make a difference.

No I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always loved weddings and knew I wanted complete control of everything DQG with social media these days you can get so many fantastic ideas.

Where did you get married and where was the reception held?

Our ceremony was at the %lue 3ools Angourie. Ryan wanted it over looking the beach and I wanted something a bit different so it was a good compromise.

Our reception was at our house, which had just the right size yard for everyone to mingle for a cocktail style reception. We hired modern style bar tables and a few other pieces and lined above the garden with fairy lights, and we made a dance floor Is there anything that you wish you had of known before you got married?

I wish I had known how much needed to be done on the actual day, and would definitely recommend a wedding coordinator for the day to help set up and decorate, make sure all the little details are done and to make sure the ceremony runs smoothly.

I also wish I had known that running an hour late to the ceremony not only leaves everyone wondering where you are but also really cuts into your photo time. We only got to do one location and had to rush photos. The Sea Society did an amazing job to get enough shots in the short time we had left before the sun went down.

What do you think was the most important thing in regards to your wedding?

The most important thing to me was to make sure at the end of the night everyone had an enjoyable time, there was enough food and drinks with good music. We aimed at making it more of a styled party than a drawn out wedding. Our reception space wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t too big so there werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t any awkward spaces between groups of friends and family so it was a more sociable atmosphere.

I chose a dress appropriate for an outdoor ceremony and reception and didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want anything that dragged or needed to be held up while dancing, it was a perfect dress for the style of wedding we had.

March 2018

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ARRIVE IN STYLE (slowly)

Image: Captured by Carly

fun and funky wedding car can add a touch of style to your wedding and can act as a great backdrop for your wedding photos. Nothing is more fun (or slow) than a Kombi.

Mirror Image Weddings is run by Jann and Wally – their two Kombis, Nirvana and Mango, are the perfect solution if you prefer something a little out of the ordinary.

Mirror Image Weddings cater for weddings only, with two-hour minimum hire, as far south as Port Macquarie, north to Byron Bay and all areas in between.

"Our purpose is to make the wedding party's trip as enjoyable as we can on this

A

life changing adventure,” says Jann. “We love driving for weddings, it's such a happy time and we cater to the bridal party's needs on the day. We are always open to suggestions.

"We don’t aim to get there first, but get there in style. The journey to the wedding ceremony is a relaxing cruise, with music floating through the air, tingling the wedding party's earlobes."

Nirvana is Jann’s pride and joy. It is a 1964 white over Turkis green split screen Kombi and is in stock condition as it was in 1964, with modern speakers the only new addition. Nirvana can carry up to seven people

and the driver.

Mango is Wally’s bus. It is a 1960 white over mango, (hence the name). Inside, the Mango retains its original condition as it was back in 1960 and can carry up to seven people plus the driver.

Your wedding day is said to be one of the happiest times of your life, and arriving in style (and slowly) in a Kombi makes it so much happier, and your trip also lasts longer giving you more time to savour the ride.

So go on, have a bit of fun with Nirvana and Mango on your wedding day. Give Jann and Wally a call and cruise in style to your wedding.

say “i do” to our venue...

WEDDING AND FUNCTION SPECIALISTS WEDD

Cruise along in style and get to the church on time.

Our team can cater to your every need, whether it be food, decoration, entertainment plus more.

If we don’t have it, we will track it down for you!

FROM BYRON BAY TO PORT MACQUARIE AND EVERYWHERE IN BETWEEN

g weddionnies cerem social

receptions ns luncheo

Mirror Image Weddings 60 Mullaway Drive, Mullaway NSW 2456 | 02 6654 1556 / 0413 533 767 mirrorimageweddings@gmail.com | info@mirrorimageweddings.com.au

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menus tailored to your budget requirements

SOUTH SERVICES CLUB 2 Wharf St, South Grafton | 6642 1422 www.sgex.com.au

admin@sgex.com.au

MY TOP

WEDDING LOCATIONS WE CHATTED WITH LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER STEPHANIE FLAY AND ASKED HER WHERE HER TOP 5 SPOTS TO SHOOT WEDDINGS IN THE CLARENCE ARE...

have so many favourite images so it’s impossible to choose a favourite, but this photo (left) shows everything I love to capture.

Beautiful glowing light, pure joy, natural movement. To me the best images are simple and aim to capture real emotions.

To get this image I simply asked the bride and groom to walk toward me with their bridal party following and just chat to each other.

Stephanie’s top 5 locations in the Clarence Valley for wedding photos are: Alumy Creek Reserve - It has a natural country feel, lots of beautiful trees that change with the seasons and provide shade in hot weather.

Green Point Angourie - It is a great ceremony location on the headland, loads of character with rock formations, stairways and coastal bush.

Lighthouse and Main Beach Yamba - The amazing views from the lighthouse headland, protected sandy beach and rocky areas make for great photos.

Historic Grafton Buildings - These are great for wet weather weddings with covered verandahs, charm and character.

Private Property - I simply love taking wedding photos in fields of long grass, farms, old barns and bushland that is unique, private and different.

I

Chloe and Keaton

Bonnie and Sonny

Tegan and Roy

Couple - Tegan and Roy Photographer - Stephanie Flay Photography Wedding Venue - Angourie Rainforest Resort Cake - Monique from Fabulous Functions

Tegan and Roy March 2018

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Where dreams

COME TRUE estled amongst a lush tropical rainforest habitat, the resort boasts the rare combination of first class event facilities and unique natural wonders.

From a grand affair to a relaxed reception or private poolside ceremony, we are with you every step of the way to ensure your wedding marks the most memorable experience with your loved ones.

Our facilities consist of the Cunjevoi Restaurant featuring footbridge and water views via a breezy alcove. The Bangalow Room (the largest venue) is ideal for a formal celebration seating up to 140 guests and includes a bar and guest lounge area.

The second biggest venue, the Point Venue has a casual but elegant atmosphere seating up to 80 guests. All rooms feature spotted gum timber flooring, high ceilings and unique Australian out looks. Enjoy an outdoor setting on a raised deck overlooking the pool view and the resorts natural flora and fauna.

Our variety of accommodation includes fully contained One Bedroom Deluxe Spa Apartments, Two Bedroom Standard and Deluxe Villas.

Our Villas are an ideal space for the bridal parties to prepare in privacy before the ceremony, after which, the bride and groom may indulge in the Deluxe Spa Apartment as the honeymoon

N

FOR THE

girls

Indulge in the Ultimate Hens Pamper Retreat. Gather the ladies and treat the bride-to-be to a magical weekend away at Angourie Resort.

Enjoy two night’s accommodation in a 2 bedroom Deluxe Villa with a fruit and cheese platter and champagne in your room on arrival.

Rediscover your senses, rest your mind and breathe freely as you step into our world of touch and exquisite aromas at the Day Spa. Immerse yourself in the steam room

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begins. We offer delightful extras such as fruit and cheese platters and champagne for large groups or couples to enjoy!

With a variety of food and beverage packages to choose from, there is something to tantalise even the fussiest of tastebud. Our highly renowned head chef and his team provide nothing but quality and style to every dish.

Rediscover your senses, rest your mind and breathe freely as you step in our temple of touch and exquisite aromas, at the Essential Elements Day Spa. The perfect hens escape, pre-wedding pamper, or honeymoon treat. Pamper packages available for large groups, or an intimate couples retreat.

Walk into a world of complete sensory heaven where time is left at the door and a new journey begins.

Yamba, the hidden jewel of the North Coast, has spectacular beaches, rolling surf and picturesque lookouts, making this small town the perfect wedding destination with endless ceremony choices. Yamba is located at the mouth of the magnificent Clarence River in the heart of the vibrant Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. Only 2 hours south of the Gold Coast airport, Yamba has been declared by CSIRO as having the best climate in the world to work, live and play.

and therapy pool, open your pores and purify your skin prior to your half-hour spa treatment, or upgrade your treatment to one of our indulgent detoxifying rituals, scrubs or facials.

Begin your day with a healthy Continental Buffet Breakfast and relax in the evening as you enjoy a two-course dinner at the Cunjevoi Restaurant & Bar. Sip on delicious cocktails by the pool and soak up the afternoon sun as you take advantage of happy hour, poolside

A testimonial from one of our beautiful Brides, Jess Rooks: “I cannot thank you enough for your professionalism, support, flexibility, ideas and everything you put in to our wedding to make it the amazing day that it was.

Our room was beautiful, you and your reception staff could not make us feel more welcome.

You all went above and beyond to meet any minor requests we had over the few days we stayed there.

The Pergola was so perfect and intimate for our small ceremony. It was just ideal for what we wanted. The lanterns, chairs with the pool in the background, the lush green foliage around us, it made us feel like we were worlds away and time stood still as we had our special moment of becoming husband and wife.

The candle light, natural atmosphere and resort surroundings was so magical, romantic and peaceful”.

Contact Details: Phone: 02 6646 8600 Website: www.angourieresort.com.au Email: events@angourieresort.com.au Facebook: @angourieresort

service and bar snacks. Angourie Resort is the perfect place to refresh and rejuvenate before the big day with everything you need located at the resort, yet only minutes away from Yamba. Experience this beautiful town yourself and hire the resort bikes and enjoy local markets, picturesque beaches, boutique stores and gourmet cafes.

Speak to our reservations team about our unique Hens Retreat ‘Add-On’s’, such as a personalised macramé class, high tea under the

poolside pergola, cooking class, or lingerie party.

Packages are available from just $299 p/p, and our reservations team are happy to customise packages based on your groups’ wishes.

Angourie RESORT

DAY SPA

ACCOMMODATION

RESTAURANT

Your dream wedding destination in Yamba • Engagements • Ceremonies • Accommodation

• Hens Par ties • Receptions • Honeymoons

PHONE 02 6646 8600 166 Angour ie Road, Yamba NSW 2464 events@angour ieresor t.com.au www.angour ieresor t.com.au

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JEWELLERY CREATED

just for you

rendan L. Watkins Goldsmith and Jewellers is owned and operated

by Brendan and Darlene Watkins who are well known as experts in custom design jewellery in the Clarence Valley area.

Brendan L. Watkins Goldsmith and Jewellers is the only jewellery shop in the Clarence Valley that has an actual jeweller on site at all times. Brendan is assisted by his son Caleb who is in his 3rd year of his jewellery apprenticeship.

Brendan has 29 years experience in design and manufacture of jewellery, as well as extensive experience in diamond grading and gemmology. With strong international diamond connections as an Antwerp Diamond broker, he can source rare and

B

our wedding is a celebration of love and commitment and will be one of the most significant days of your life. The Grafton District Golf Club offers you the ideal setting to make your special day a memorable occasion for you and your guests.

Our function room seats 150 guests and our chef can help you create a menu to suit your requirements and budget. The function room leads onto a large verandah overlooking the beautiful golf course. The club is fully air conditioned for year round comfort for you and your guests. The function room offers a dance floor for

Y

the traditional bridal waltz and for dancing into the night.

The picturesque wedding garden overlooks the golf course and is available for your outdoor ceremony. This makes for a beautiful backdrop for those precious photos.

The garden leads into the function room and onto the verandah all at the one level. The verandah is the ideal meeting place for guests to enjoy some refreshments prior to the arrival of the bridal party.

Enquire today to make your special day a lifetime memory for you and your guests. Phone our Chef on 6643 1692 or the Club on 6642 2255.

Birdie’s on Bent Restaurant...

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR YOUR WEDDING CELEBRATIONS

Your wedding is a celebration of love and commitment and will be one of the most significant days of your life.

The Grafton District Golf Club offers you the ideal setting to make your special day a memorable occasion for you and your guests.

Our function room seats 150 guests and our chef can help you create a menu to suit your requirements and budget. The function room leads onto a large verandah overlooking the beautiful golf course. The club is fully air conditioned for year round comfort. The function room offers a dance floor for the traditional bridal waltz and for dancing into the night.

The picturesque wedding garden overlooks the golf course and is available for your outdoor ceremony. This makes for a beautiful backdrop for those precious photos. The garden leads into the function room and onto the verandah all at the one level. The verandah is the ideal meeting place for guests to enjoy some refreshments prior to the arrival of the bridal party.

Grafton District Golf Club

Enquire today to make your special day a lifetime memory.

Phone our Chef on 6643 1692 or the Club on 6642 2255 Bent Street, South Grafton

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unusual diamonds from Belgian diamond cutting and polishing houses.

Unique custom made jewellery can be made to suit your needs and budget. Brendan L. Watkins Goldsmith and Jewellers is your diamond engagement ring and wedding ring specialists, offering the option of design and manufacturing in store, sketched and modelled to traditional techniques for a hand-crafted design.

Their clients are encouraged to be involved in the design process for their unique creation.

Contact Brendan L. Watkins today to discuss creating the ring of your dreams. Located at 3/25 Coldstream Street in beautiful Yamba or you can phone them on 6646 3027.

Image: The Sea Society Photography

LET’S ELOPE

Image: The Sea Society Photography

to The Clarence Valley

INTRODUCING A NEW KIND OF WEDDING EVENT IN THE CLARENCE VALLEY... ELOPEMENTS. WHETHER YOU LIVE HERE OR NOT, IT’S A GREAT WAY TO GET MARRIED. What are elopements?

Elopements are essentially small and intimate ceremonies, often held in exotic or beautiful locations far from a couple’s usual place of residence.

The main difference between a wedding and an elopement is that the emphasis is placed purely on the celebration of marriage, rather than on the hosting of a wedding.

Who is doing it? Why Yamba?

Couples range from the budget conscious who want to avoid the cost of a large wedding, besotted lovers who just want to emerge themselves in each other instead of the stress of planning a wedding; to those who already have children and want to create an intimate family memory without the huge guest list.

Elopements have become very popular and are booming in other holiday destinations such as Byron Bay and Noosa.

Yamba offers a quieter, more “off the beaten track” alternative, with pristine beaches, stunning reserves and that laid back, small town vibe many couples are attracted to.

What do they entail? Is it just the couple or a few close friends too?

Elope to Yamba is a new service and offers stylish, intimate ceremonies for couples who want to run away and say their “I dos” in one of the most beautiful locations in Australia.

Personalized ceremonies are tailored to suit the needs, desires and values of each couple. Elopements are all about helping two lovers get hitched in paradise stress free.

We believe in the power and beauty of marriage and want

to create a day that is free from unimportant distractions, a day that is completely about you, your love and the life you wish to create together.

What do they entail? Is it just the couple or a few close friends too?

Packages can be just the two of you to a small intimate gathering with family and friends.

Packages include a coordinator to style and setup a personalised ceremony with a professional celebrant service with all legal paperwork included, a bouquet and buttonhole for the couple, a photographer to capture the ceremony and a portrait shoot in one of our stunning locations with a champagne toast.

We have teamed up with the best local vendors to bring you extra add ons such as catering, hair and makeup, extra floral arrangements, videographer and a cake to celebrate.

Is the cost less?

Costs vary depending on which package couples select.

Monday – Thursday are a lower cost versus weekend elopements. In general, elopements work out much cheaper than traditional weddings.

Their small size and simple nature mean that couples are able to spend their hard earned cash on the dress of their dreams, an extended honeymoon or even a house deposit, instead of catering for 100+ guests.

Thinking of eloping? Perhaps the beautiful Clarence Valley might be right up your alley. Elope to Yamba: Phone Meg 0403 697 601 or Amber 0410 612 464 for more information.

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Your

LOCAL WEDDING DIRECTORY

3 YAMBA RD YAMBA 6646 3311

Something Special

Wedding Planning & Decorations Yo we Your wed wedding d is one of the most significant days of your llife. Leave the details to us as professional wedding planners, whether you’re after contemporary, olde world or a traditional theme.

A COMPLETE SERVICE...

CAKES • PHOTOS • WEDDING STATIONERY HAIR & MAKE-UP • FLOWERS & BOUQUETS CHAIR COVERS • BACKDROPS • FAIRY LIGHTING CANDELABRA TABLE CENTREPIECES PHOTO FAIRY TREES & PLANT HIRE BOOTH VINTAGE CANDY CART & MORE!

• Perfect waterfront location in beautiful Yamba Î kýåųĜĹč Ÿĵ±ĬĬØ ĜĹƋĜĵ±Ƌå ŸåƋƋĜĹč üŅų ƵåÚÚĜĹčŸ ±ĹÚ ŸŞåÏĜ±Ĭ ŅÏϱŸĜŅĹŸ Î XĜÏåĹŸåÚ üŅų ¥k ƵĜĹå ±ĹÚ Æååų

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FOR A FREE CONSULTATION PHONE

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Carol Davies on 6643 3011 or 0413 779 711 E: ssweddings@hotmail.com

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Grafton Hire

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Wedding Marquees for your special day

GRAZING TABLES // DESSERTS // CAKES EVENT HIRE // PICNIC PROPOSAL SETUPS Marquee sizes are: 9m x 9m 15m x 9m 21m x 9m

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For all your wedding supplies contact

Grafton Party Hire m at Grafton Hire n Phone: (02) 6643 2878 or Will 0417 720 952 For complete Party Hire List email: graftonhire@gmail.com

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March 2018

Hire for your Weddings & Events PH: 6642 4953 MOB: 0428 424 953

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0403 697 601 HELLO@MARRIEDBYMEG.COM.AU MARRIEDBYMEG.COM.AU

LET THEM eat COUPLES ARE LOVING TO CREATE SOMETHING THAT IS FUN AND REFLECTS THEIR PERSONALITY WHILE ADDING FLAVOURS THEY BOTH ENJOY. FRESH FLOWERS AND CARAMEL DRIP ARE STILL IN HIGH DEMAND ALONG WITH EDIBLE DECORATIONS SUCH AS CHOCOLATES, MACARONS & TOFFEE.

cake

THE MOST POPULAR CAKE FLAVOUR IS CHOCOLATE MUD OR WHITE CHOCOLATE MUD WITH A COUPLES FAVOURITE BUTTERCREAM FILLINGS LIKE COOKIES & CREAM AND RASPBERRY.

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M E N U S TA I LO R E D T O S U I T ALL YOUR REQUIREMENTS C AT E R I N G AT V I N E S & O F F S I T E

1 3 9

F I T Z R O Y

S T,

G R A F T O N

6 6 4 2

5 5 0 0 | WEDDING & FUNCTION SPECIALISTS March 2018

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SAY I DO D

MEG’S FAVOURITE

wedding locations Green Point – Perhaps Yamba’s most iconic ceremony location.

Yamba Lighthouse – Another perfect outdoor location.

Main Beach Pool – a perfect sunny spot for a wedding shoot, often protected from the afternoon wind. The Yamba Surf Club is a perfect location for a reception.

The Old Kirk – a charming, rustic, indoor option that can’t be ignored.

Back Beach/Spooky’s Beach These two Angourie beaches are the perfect remote location for an intimate, secluded ceremony.

All locations are beautiful though. My favourites are the ones that come with a story and are significant in some way to the Bride and Groom – whether it be a property one of them grew up on; a favourite Aunty’s backyard.

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March 2018

We caught up with Meg from Married by Meg and asked her why she became a marriage celebrant. originate from a small town on the South Coast of NSW and over the past ILYH years have journeyed home for many of my closest friend’s weddings.

At most of these, the same celebrant has officiated.

I remember thinking what an awesome job – he gets to help all of his kids friends marry the loves of their lives. He is responsible for helping couples on the road to a long and happy life together, for creating happiness and building memories that will last a lifetime. In early 2016, I attended another wedding he performed.

About half way through,

I

WITH OUR YOUNGEST FEMALE CELEBRANT IN THE CLARENCE VALLEY

I turned to my friend and said “ I think I will become a marriage Felebrant.

The thought of being able to marry my children and their friends one day and to be able to share in these happy moments in such a special way, was what had originally spurred me on, but then I started thinking about the unique perspective I could bring to a wedding being young myself.

A few months later, I started my on line marriage celebrant course, and when it was finished I jumped right in!

It was the best decision I have ever made for both myself and my family.

I love the anticipation of the bride’s arrival, the emotion on the groom’s face as he watches his future bride walk towards him, the look on their faces when I pronounce them husband and wife, and the buzz that I get in helping couples on the road to their happily ever

after. There is no greater feeling then looking in your rearview mirror as you drive away from a ceremony and witnessing a scene of complete happiness, knowing you are responsible for a part of that.

How long have you lived here for?

Almost 6 years. My husband is from the Clarence Valley and after I finished uni in 2012, we moved to Yamba.

It is home now, and we couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.

Are you the youngest marriage celebrant in the valley? What makes you unique?

I think I am? I turned 30 at the end of last year. Being a ‘young

celebrant gives me a unique perspective on weddings and marriage itself as it is a chapter of my life, and many of my friends lives, that is currently being written.

I am a romantic at heart but also a realist.

I know that marriage is a lot more than just a beautiful ceremony. It takes work, empathy, patience and a whole lot of love to sustain a marriage, especially in today’s society. I like to create ceremonies that reflect this commitment to marriage whilst also remaining modern, fresh, light hearted and upbeat.

What was the most unique wedding you have worked on and tell us why you love it and what you did or what the couple did to make it memorable?

This is a really tricky one! I honestly cannot pick one wedding, which is why I love this job so much. Every couple bring something unique to the table when it comes to their ceremony, and I can truly say that I learn something from each and every one of them – whether it be about weddings, myself or just life in general.

Reception

ON THE WATER Imagine celebrating your wedding with friends and family, enjoying sunset canapés overlooking the stunning Clarence River, whilst watching the water turn to gold as evening approaches.

Yamba Shores Tavern is Yamba's only true waterfront dining location and premier wedding reception venue.

Located right on the river with a private pontoon, you can arrive by water, or you can cruise the Clarence River while having your wedding photos taken onboard a yacht, before your arrival.

The Clarence Deck is the perfect place to hold your reception.

With scenic river views it can comfortably seat up to 150 guests with room for a DJ or band. The deck is also an ideal location to hold your ceremony or be used as a wet weather back up.

The equally beautiful and intimate Boardroom and Bar Restaurant can comfortably seat up to 100 guests with room for a

DJ or band. The restaurant also has a private bar and bathroom amenities.

Specialising in bespoke menus, there is a wide range of delicious, innovative meal choices. You can customise your menu to suit your individual needs, whether you are having a seated reception, cocktail style function, intimate share style or more casual BBQ option. All dietary requirements are catered for, so you can design your dream menu with help from acclaimed head chef, Lucas Lynch.

As a complimentary service, the Tavern’s courtesy bus will provide transport to and from the reception, so your guests can relax and enjoy themselves.

Yamba Shores Tavern is a fantastic venue guaranteed to provide a unique and unforgettable experience for your wedding day.

Contact the functions manager, Kirsty Muir, to discuss your options, but get in early as they are heavily booked.

Images: Ben Wyeth Photography visit www.benwyeth.com.au

Clarence River YOUR WEDDING DAY ON THE

Yamba Shores Tavern - the only location on the water Choose between two beautiful areas for wedding receptions.

The Clarence Deck or the Boardroom Bar, private and beautifully styled. Arrive by car or use the private dock to arrive by boat.

Free courtesy bus to pick up and drop off your guests.

Rain, hail or shine it’s magic here on the water.

64 The Mainbrace, YAMBA Phone : 6646 1888

Functions Manager Kirsty Muir kirstymuir@bigpond.com yambashorestavern.com.au

• PLANNING • STYLING • CEREMONY AND RECEPTION SET UPS • CATERING • CAKES • FURNITURE • LINEN AND MORE Yamba Weddings & Events is based in Yamba, servicing the whole Clarence Valley and beyond. We pride ourselves in helping to create your perfect Wedding or Event. From planning your whole day or a simple beach ceremony.

If we don’t have something you need for your special day we are happy to source the items for you.

We are your one stop Wedding and Event supplier.

Email: yamwed.events@gmail.com • 0427 462 983 yambaweddingsandevents.com.au March 2018

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Your

LOCAL GIFT GUIDE

OUR GIFT SUGGESTION: S+P Salut 19 Piece Glass Ensemble Set

“Ta’Chele Australis is a gift shopper’s paradise. It is Maclean’s unique gift emporium. I know I am always going to find the perfect gift for any occasion.” Bronte McGregor

Ta’Chele Australis

211 River St, Maclean 0409 461 049 @tacheleaus

OUR GIFT SUGGESTION: Handmade rattan VW

One of my favourite shops that I can get lost in, sooo many BEAUTIFUL homewares, clothing and sooooo much more! I just want it all... Karla Morrison

Iguana Beachwear Gifts & Home Decor

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March 2018

33a Charles St, Iluka 6646 6500 2/93 River St, Woodburn 6682 2869 @iguanabeachwear

OUR GIFT SUGGESTION: Stradic C5000XG

“I love the bait place almost as l much as I love fishing. Their friendly staff told me what’s biting, and where and how to catch them. ” John Salmon

The Bait Place For all of your fuel, bait and tackle needs

11 Yamba Rd, Yamba 6646 2533 bpyamba@gmail.com www.thebaitplace.com.au

OUR GIFT SUGGESTION: 500mm fine hobnail teapot

“Stumbled across this little gem today! Maggie was very knowledgeable of her products and simply a delightful lady! I highly recommend the apple cinnamon tea - delicious!” Rach Schuhmacher 5/14 Coldstream St Yamba 0409 058 883 Shop online sweetlittleteashop.com.au @sweetlittleteashop

Your

HEALTH

FOOD

Autumn is a good time to take stock of what is in your pantry and freezer and to start planning meals that take advantage of seasonal fruit and vegetables. By planning ahead, developing a menu plan, using in season fruit and vegetables and growing your own food you can make exciting nutritious meals that help save money and reduce our impact on the environment.

• 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

TO LOVE this autumn Buy seasonal fruit and vegetables

Buying in season fruit and vegetables supports local growers and reduces the environmental impact of transporting food from interstate and overseas. It also means fruit and vegetables are naturally more delicious and often cheaper due to more being available - a win-win for you, the grower and our environment.

Look out for these fruit and vegetables this autumn: Fruits

Apple, banana, custard apple, fig, grape, guava, kiwi fruit, lemon, lime, orange, passionfruit, pear, plum, pomegranate, rhubarb and quince.

Vegetables

Asian greens, avocado, beans, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage, capsicum, carrot, cauliflower, cucumber, eggplant, fennel, leek, lettuce, mushroom, onion, parsnip, potato, pumpkin, spinach, sweet corn, sweet potato, tomato, turnip and zucchini.

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Dr Chris Van Vuuren and Associates.

1300 255 678

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

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

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

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

March 2018

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Beginning a fitness walking program

Early orthodontic treatment (age 7-9) may prevent more serious problems from developing or make treatment at a later age shorter and less complicated.

Common early problems are: â&#x20AC;˘ The six year old molar doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t erupt as it is caught underneath the baby tooth (it is impacted). This can be corrected by placing a spacer between the baby tooth and the six year old molar, or in more severe cases by placing partial fixed braces to move the six year old molar backwards.

Treatment may take 6 weeks to 6 months. â&#x20AC;˘ A crossbite of the anterior (front) teeth.

A crossbite is where the upper teeth bite on the wrong side (inside) of the lower teeth. This can be corrected by wearing a removable plate or partial fixed braces, which push the teeth into the correct position. Treatment time is approximately 9 to 12 months. â&#x20AC;˘ A narrow upper jaw results in less space being available for the adult teeth to erupt and can be corrected by widening the upper jaw with a removable plate or a fixed maxillary expander. Treatment time is approximately 9 months. â&#x20AC;˘ Protrusive upper teeth are often accompanied by a retrusive lower jaw and can be treated with a Twin Block Appliance in 9-12 months.

A Twin Block is an upper and lower plate worn full time posturing the lower jaw forwards, modifying growth and correcting the bite. â&#x20AC;˘ Habits such as thumb sucking can be corrected using a rewards based programme. However if your child struggles to eliminate the habit then an upper removable plate may be worn to stop the habit.

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

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

Available on Wednesdays at Fresh Dental Care, Grafton â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘ â&#x20AC;˘

No Referral Needed Interest Free Payment Plans Early Treatment Self Ligating Braces Invisible Braces & Invisalign Cosmetic Braces

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Ph: 6643 2225 Fresh Dental Care, cnr Queen & Victoria St, Grafton 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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March 2018

Catch your Hearing Rainbow with Celtic Coastal Hearing Services!

You know you want to begin a fitness program, but don't know where to start. It's easy! Walking is one of the easiest and most profitable forms of exercise. All you need is a good pair of shoes, comfortable clothing and desire.

How to start: First of all, start out slow and easy. Just walk out the door. For most people this means head out the door, walk for 10 minutes, and walk back. That's it? Yes, that's it.

Do this every day for a week. If this was easy for you, add five minutes to your walks next week (total walking time 25 minutes). Keep adding 5 minutes until you are walking as long as desired.

Watch your posture. Walk tall. Think of elongating your body. Hold your head up and eyes forward. Your shoulders should be down, back and relaxed. Tighten your abdominal muscles and buttocks and fall into a natural stride.

Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after walking. Incorporate a warm up, cool-down and stretches into your routine. Start your walk at a slow warm up pace, stop and do a few warm up / flexibility drills.

Then walk for the desired length of time. End your walk with the slower cool-down pace and stretch well after your walk. Stretching will make you feel great and assist in injury prevention.

The toughest thing about starting a fitness program is developing a habit. Walking daily will help (a minimum of 5 days a week is a good goal). You should walk fast enough to reach your target heart rate, but you should not be gasping for air. http://www.thewalkingsite.com

Jim (wonderful patient of mine) compared his previous hearing journey to chasing rainbows and that his new free hearing aids were his pot of gold! I loved his vivid description for its pure honesty. How exhausting to be perpetually looking for a solution that seems out of your reach?

At Celtic Coastal Hearing we reckon your energies would be better spent enjoying the fun interests in your life which is really why you want to hear the best you can in the first place.

So if you want to escape that crazy treadmill and find a solution that works, give us a call.

Celtic Coastal Hearing wants you to catch your hearing rainbow by offering free trials of hearing devices. You have that chance to hear the very best you can in the great life you live by taking the devices home for a week or two. Then you can be the judge of what is great for you. Whether you choose the free hearing aids or (as Jim calls them!) the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;fancy pantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ones is completely up to you.

Trials help people assess the benefits of hearing devices and help bust some of those negative myths that are out there. Hearing trials are a pressure free way of finding out if you are ready.

Regardless of your hearing, unless you feel ready in your heart to â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;give it a fair goâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and wear the devices then perhaps it may not be the right time to proceed. Motivation is highly linked to successful outcomes so at Celtic Coastal Hearing we want to be assured everyone gets the benefits that they seek from their chosen solution.

So, get some colours back in your hearing and grab that rainbowâ&#x20AC;Śâ&#x20AC;Ścall us (02) 5617 6653 for a chat about it all!

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.

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Prevention is the key

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GET TO KNOW US AT BULGARR NGARU

Protect your teeth We Clarence locals have a passion for our sport, whether it’s kicking a footy or passing a netball, cracking middle stump on a Saturday arvo, or rowing up the beautiful Clarence River.

There’s a thrill that appeals to us sport lovers, but the spills can be devastating.

Mouthguards can protect you from serious sporting injuries, such as broken jaws, fractured, cracked or knocked-out teeth, cut lips and tongues.

Unfortunately the cost effective, self-fitted, over-the-counter mouthguard, which includes what are commonly known as “boiland-bite” mouthguards, shouldn’t be used. They do not protect the teeth and gums, are loosely fitted, impede breathing and speaking. In contrast, a custom-fitted mouthguard works by absorbing and spreading the impact of the damaging blow, and is fabricated based on an impression of your teeth and jaw, taken by your Dental professional.

A mouthguard that is custom-fitted is far superior to an

over-the-counter mouthguard because it’s specially designed to fit the exact contours of your mouth, is resilient, balances your bite and allows speech and normal breathing. They offer up to 940% more resistance to bend and 350% more impact protection than over-the-counter mouthguards.

Custom-fitted mouthguards, by virtue of their exact fit, let you talk normally, don’t restrict your breathing and stay firmly in place, allowing you to concentrate on playing the sport you love. You should consider it a mandatory part of your sporting equipment, no matter your age or experience.

For all your professional mouthguard needs, contact Dawes Denture Clinic in Grafton or Maclean. We are highly trained professionals, that offer custom mouthguards, specific to your individual requirement. We are Health Fund approved, and no referral is necessary. Contact us for appointment today, in Grafton 66422300, or Maclean 66452300.

INTRODUCING

Karrnunny Pearce

ABORIGINAL HEALTH WORKER AT GRAFTON

1. Tell us a bit about yourself...

I enjoy most sports, gym and rugby union.

2. What's your favourite footy team/sport?

Brisbane Bronco’s 3. Tell us 3 things you are: Energetic, adventurous, ambitious.

4. Why did you choose your profession?

To help people succeed with a healthier lifestyle.

5. What is your biggest achievement?

Playing NSW country colts, rugby union.

6. Complete this sentence... changed my life... why/how ?

Joining the Navy, because it showed me a different perspective on life.

7. What are your words to live by?

Hope for the best, but expect the worst 8. What's your signature dish?

Pizza 9. Who inspires you? Morgan Freeman 10. What do you love about the Clarence Valley?

Beautiful country with every essence to life.

GRAFTON CLINIC 131-133 Bacon St Grafton PH 6643 2199

Dawes

SOUTH GRAFTON CLINIC 49-51 Skinner St South Grafton PH 6644 3555

DENTURE CLINIC

MACLEAN CLINIC 17 Woodford St Maclean PH 6645 5824 CASINO CLINIC 153-157 Canterbury St Casino PH 6662 3514

Health Fund Approved Pensioner and Veteran Affairs Approved Full Upper and Lower Dentures Partial Dentures • Relines • Mouthguards Same day denture repairs • Implant retained overdentures

NO REFERRAL NECESSARY For three generations the Dawes family has provided Quality Denture Care to the Clarence Valley

www.bnmac.com.au info@bnmac.com.au

Making A Difference In Healthcare Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation

• Primary Health Care Services • Dental Services

26 Prince Street GRAFTON 14A River Street MACLEAN

• Psychologist

Phone for an Appointment

GRAFTON 6642 2300 MACLEAN 6645 2300

BUGALWENA GENERAL PRACTICE 24 Minjungbal Dr Tweed Heads PH 07 5513 1322

• Mental Health Supports • Ear & Hearing Health Screening

• Specialist Clinics for Endocrinology, Respiratory Disease, Psychiatry, Kidney & Renal Disease, Optometrist, Exercise Physiologist, Diabetes Educator Podiatrist & Orthodontist

• Drug and Alcohol Counselling

• Cooking, Healthy Lifestyle & Exercise Classes

• Sexual Health Education & Screening

• Outreach Support Programs

• Referrals to Specialist Doctors March 2018

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It's a coffee life!

Jayc and Mason having a coffee break in the Roastery/Cafe at Botero, 275 River Street Maclean. Image Bec Davies

Tell us a bit about yourself and your role at Botero?

Jayc: I moved to Maclean in 2008 to begin my coffee apprenticeship with Danny and Jill. Back then there were only 4 of us working in the business. I left for a while to work in my partner’s business and play guitar but returned to Botero in 2013. After returning to Botero I have worked in pretty much all of the different areas of the business - roasting coffee, fixing machinery and IT. Mason: I’m the Administration Manager at Botero and it means I get to speak to our awesome wholesale customers every single day, as well as work with some incredibly diverse and talented people. Outside of Botero I like to drink good beer, go tenpin bowling, and work on my rhythmic gymnastics.

What is a typical day like for you at Botero?

Jayc: I don’t think there are “typical” days here. I come to work with a plan in my mind of what I want to achieve but more than likely the phone will ring and I can end up doing all sorts of things. It’s pretty fun – I can walk in the door here at HQ expecting to do my IT work all morning and instead end up in Brisbane helping Danny install a new coffee machine.

Mason: As soon as I get to my desk I order a piccolo and a flat-white. I slam those back and then I can function like a normal human. Then I am mostly a support person. I support the admin and accounts team, Jayc and the warehouse team, the café manager, our sales team, and our service team. This support can range in anything from packing a wholesale order, to interviewing potential new staff, to discussing sales and marketing strategies.

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With over 40 employees Botero is becoming one of the largest employers in Maclean.

How would the other employees describe you?

Jayc: My favourite question is “what is it that you actually do here?” Most people think I just walk around drinking coffee all day – which is true. When Danny and Jill are around I just walk really fast.

Mason: As someone most likely to drive a Daihatsu Charade with a dent in the rear bumper from reversing into a rogue shopping trolley.

Tea or Coffee?

Jayc: Coffee & Beer.

Mason: Definitely coffee. We have an incredible range of Jilly’s Tea here but if I was stuck on a deserted island for the rest of my life, I couldn’t last more than 12 hours without coffee. I’d most probably end up brewing coconut. Or sand.

We see there is a number of blend options at Botero. What is your preferred blend?

Jayc: Toba – during my time working from home in my partner’s business we lived near One Fine Cup in Yamba and I was drinking coffee there a couple of times a day so I am hooked on it. I always take some Toba when I go camping to use in my aeropress as it tastes great black too. Our cold brew is also made using Toba.

Mason: Brass was my first love and I remain true to her to this day. It’s a blend of class, elegance, and a real smack in the chops of flavour. It can’t be beat and I know most of our customers would agree with me.

I liken it to the Foo Fighter’s song ‘Everlong’ – they’ll never top that classic.

What type of coffee do you drink and what does this say about your personality?

Jayc: All summer I was drinking Iced Long blacks – a double shot of coffee over iced water. I have started back drinking small double shot flatties with ½ sugar.

I’m not sure that it says much about my personality - Perhaps it just means that I am hot in summer or maybe a reckless trouble maker that is indecisive.

Mason: I’m mostly a flat-white kinda guy and I think it says that I don’t need all the bells and whistles, I just want a good coffee. It also screams out that I admire many flat things – tyres, Lebanese bread, exhaustion, apartment complexes.

What is the best thing about working at Botero?

Jayc: There are lots of great things about working here.

Obviously the people you work with can make or break how good the job is, I am lucky that everyone here is a mate which makes going to work really easy as I just go hang out with friends for a few hours each day. Danny and Jill have made it a workplace that is super family friendly and as flexible as possible. Often we need to leave early or come and go to do things with the kids and they have always been really supportive of that.

Mason: Having coffee delivered to my desk, being part of a company that I see as future focussed, innovative and cool, and our awesome end of year Christmas party.

Jayc we hear you grew up in Grafton and Mason you in Sydney. What is best thing about living & working in Maclean?

Jayc: I’ve lived all over the world and I’ve managed to see some pretty cool places,

The SCENE sat down with two of Botero’s managers to get the inside story on all things coffee, Botero and living in the Clarence Valley.

at every place I’ve honestly been able to say “yeah it’s pretty good... but it’s no Brooms Head...” There is some really nice places out there but nowhere in the world that is completely better than the Clarence Valley. I love that I can walk into any pub and there will always be someone to have a beer with.

People here are always friendly and we are always up for a chat.

Mason: I love being part of a community where I can meet so many people and feel known. I feel more than just a number in a system and that is due to our town being relatively small.

Why should our readers visit Botero Cafe?

Jayc: Our roastery uses state of the art, industry leading equipment. The roaster and plant equipment we use here at Botero was custom made and built in Italy specifically for us. It is rare to see a roastery in big cities using equipment of this quality, but here at Botero Café Maclean it is all visible from the air conditioned café. We are always happy to show people around the roastery if they are interested.

Mason: It oozes cool in every way. Danny and Jill crafted a café that would stand tall amongst the giants in Melbourne or Sydney – we have exceptional coffee, food, service, and a world class roast facility.

Is there an item on the menu you recommend?

Jayc: One of Jesse’s Espresso Martinis.

Mason: The southern fried chicken burger on the current lunch menu is exceptional. I consider myself a bit of a burger connoisseur and this is up there with some of the finest in the world.

Australian Women’s Rugby 7s

Road to greatness Meat & Livestock Australia has teamed up with Australia’s Gold-medal winning Women’s Rugby 7’s team to to showcase why the greatest athletes need the greatest fuel to help them perform at their best.

Take a sneak peek into their daily lives and Dietitian to the team, Peta Carige, has shared some of the ultimate beef recipes she recommends regularly to players Charlotte Caslick, Shannon Parry, Emilee Cherry and Demi Hayes including a favourite – Spiced Beef and Hummus.

Players Charlotte Caslick and Demi Hayes to find out what their daily diets and training regime involves.

CHARLOTTE CASLICK 1. What does a normal day on a plate look like for you?

I eat very normally, even though that might surprise some people. In the mornings I usually have something quick (to maximise sleep time) like Weet-bix with honey. Lunch is provided for us at training, which can range from pasta dishes, meat and veg, stir fries and plenty of other dishes.

We’re pretty lucky to have food provided so we don’t have to worry! For dinner, again, I eat a variety of foods, I like to mix it up, but I always get the recommended amount of protein and veg or salad.

2. Does your diet change in the run up to a big game or competition?

My diet doesn’t really change throughout the year. Although if we travel overseas it has to mix up a bit as we don’t have the same access to our usual food or cuisine, but it stays as consistent as possible.

3. What is your normal training regime?

Normal training regime is heading in around 7am and we finish at about 3 or 4pm. It consists of a field session, gym session, skill

session and sometimes an extra running session. So plenty to get through!

4. What role does beef play in your diet?

I eat beef at least 3 to 4 times a week. I eat beef stir-fries, use beef mince in pasta dishes, or even san chow boy or Mexican dishes, like tacos and burritos.

5. What is your earliest and/or favourite beef memory? Mum’s claim to fame is probably spaghetti bolognaise. When Dad worked overseas she would cook it very regularly. Easy, but delicious, it always tastes like home.

6. What is your favourite beef recipe?

I love beef lasagne, it’s so indulgent and delicious. My partner Lewis also makes awesome Chinese stir fries with beef as well.

7. What are your plans for 2018?

My partner Lewis and I just bought a little property up in Queensland so we are excited to start that journey. In terms of rugby I obviously would love to compete at the Commonwealth Games this year. We are on the right track to win another World Series and I would love to go to my second World Cup. It’s a big year for Women’s Rugby!

DEMI HAYES 1. What does a normal day on a plate look like for you?

Breakfast is usually pretty simple, I don’t really like to eat a huge meal before a big field session. Lunch we nearly always have meat, such as a spag Bolognese, or beef stir fries are always one of my favourites. After a big session, I would love a piece of steak, however there are a few too many of us to cook that for!

2. Does your diet change in the run up to a big game or competition? For me personally, yes. I will often try to eat more meat for iron and energy before a tournament. It’s sometimes a bit tricky when travelling in a totally different country though, so we work with what we have to eat the best we can!

3. What is your normal training regime?

Training for me is daily. We usually have to be in at training between 7am and 9am. Depending on the day, we then either have physio for specific injuries or we stretch.

Following that we have up to 2 hours on the field, come back for recovery and lunch, then finish off the day with

gym and maybe a skills session after.

4. What role does beef play in your diet?

As part of the meal plan that our dietitan Peta Carige prepares for us, I usually eat meat 3 to 4 times per week either at home, or Peta has our chef cook it for lunch post-training.

It’s always a great way to cap off a heavy session!

5. What is your earliest and/or favourite beef memory?

My family actually live on a cattle farm which is where I grew up. I’m a country girl at heart. A favourite memory I have are all the special dinners we had, we got treated to skirt steak which was always so delicious.

6. What is your favourite beef recipe?

I love satay beef, it’s one of my mum’s recipes I’ve eaten from a young age. She’d be impressed I can cook it for myself now!

7. What are your plans for 2018?

My goals are to make the Commonwealth Games and World Cup teams. It would be a dream come true so I hope my hard work and training come to fruition!

ENCOURAGING OUR YOUNG ATHLETES TO STRIVE FOR THEIR BEST Clarence Valley

6642 8205

ANGLIC AN SCHOOL

www.cvas.nsw.edu.au Clarenza Campus, 74 Centenary Drive, Clarenza (Years 5 -12) Cathedral Campus, 39 Victoria Street, Grafton (Pre-Kinder - Year 4) March 2018

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LIKETHE THE LIKE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN WOMEN’SRUGBY RUGBY7s 7s WOMEN’S

WITH THEIR FAVOURITE BEEF RECIPES Have you ever wondered what it takes to be one of the greatest gold-medalwinning athletes?

From tough training, to eating right, there’s more to it than just what happens on the field.

Dietitian to the Australian Women’s Rugby 7s team, Peta Carige, has shared four of the ultimate beef recipes that she recommends and prepares for the players as part of their nutritious weekly meal plans. The recipes include a favourite of players Charlotte Caslick, Demi Hayes, Shannon Parry, and Emilee Cherry – ‘Spiced Beef and Hummus’, that you can now try at home.

PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES COOKING TIME: 10 MINUTES SERVES: 4

Spiced Beef with Hummus SPICE UP YOUR DAY WITH THIS DELICIOUS MEAL WITH A MIDDLE EASTERN FLARE

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• 400g lean beef mince • 2 x 400g can chickpeas, rinsed, drained • ½ cup tahini • ½ cup lemon juice • 175ml olive oil • 2 garlic cloves, crushed • ½ large capsicum, diced • 1 red onion, diced • 1 garlic cloves • 2 tsp ground allspice • 1 tsp ground cinnamon • 2 tsp pomegranate molasses • Pomegranate seeds (craisins are an alternative) • Parsley • Pita or Lebanese bread, warmed and ready to serve

1. To make hummus, place chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice and 150ml oil and 2 garlic cloves into a food processor and process until combined. Add 60ml warm water and process until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

2. Place mince in a bowl and mix in oil. Heat a large frypan until hot.

Crumble in half of the mince. Brown the mince, breaking up any lumps with a fork. Remove first

batch, reheat pan and cook remaining mince.

3. Stir in spices and vegetables and continue to cook for a further 2 minutes.

4. Stir in pomegranate molasse and season 5. Allow it to cool slightly, then spoon beef mixture over the hummus.

6. Scatter with

pomegranate (craisins), parsey and serve with heated pita bread cut into triangles.

ESSENTIAL TIPS: As the mince cooks, break up lumps with a fork. Let the first side of the mince sear lightly before using a fork to break up the larger pieces. As it cooks, tilt the pan slightly and spoon away the liquid – this helps brown the mince.

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March 2018

4 River Street Maclean 6645 2002

PHO STYLE BEEF AND HERB RICE PAPER ROLLS

PREP TIME: 15 MINUTES COOKING TIME: 10-15 MIN SERVES: 4

SUMMER BREAKFAST POCKET TAKE YOUR BREAKFAST TO THE NEXT LEVEL WITH THIS PROTEIN PACKED POST-WORKOUT RECIPE

• 1 brown onion (sliced) • 4 eggs (optional) • BBQ sauce (optional) • 4 wholemeal pita pockets • Olive oil, salt, pepper

METHOD FOR STEAK 1. Brush the steaks lightly with oil. Season with salt and pepper.

Preheat the barbecue flat-plate (alternatively use the char-grill plate or pan) to hot before adding the steaks.

2. Cook on one side until the first sign of moisture appears. Turn steaks once only. Test the steaks for degree of doneness with tongs. Rare is soft, medium feels springy and well done is very firm.

3. Remove steaks from heat, loosely cover with foil and rest steaks for 5 minutes before slicing.

FOR POCKET

PREP TIME: 25 MINUTES COOK TIME: 2 MINUTES SERVES: 4

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS • 2 (about 250g each) thick-cut beef rump steaks • 1 punnet cherry tomato, halved • 1 avocado sliced • 2 cups watercress

THIS FUSION OF TWO VIETNAMESE CLASSICS IS A FRESH, TASTY AND NUTRITIOUS MEAL TO IMPRESS YOUR GUESTS

1. While steak rests, place sliced brown onion into pan, cook until caramelised and set to the side.

2. Combine rested sliced steak, chopped tomato, avocado and watercress.

3. Open each pita and use tongs to evenly distribute the mixture between all four pockets.

TO FINISH 1. Crack each egg onto pan and cook to your liking.

2. Place 1 egg and ¼ of caramelised onion onto pita.

3. Finish with a small amount of BBQ sauce (or your favourite).

ESSENTIAL TIPS: • Thickly cut rump, flat iron or sirloin steaks work best for beef pockets like this one.

• Preheat the char-grill pan to hot before adding the meat. Instead of oiling the pan, oil the meat. Either brush it lightly or rub a little oil into the meat.

• 4 minute steaks (flank steak tenderised and flattened by pounding with meat tenderiser until thin) • ¼ cup tamari • 2 tbsp Chinese rice wine (shaoxing) • 1 tsp brown sugar • 1 tsp garam masala • 1 star anise • ¼ tsp chilli flakes

• 1 baby cos lettuce, chopped • 1 avocado, sliced • 1 punnet grape tomatoes, halved • 1 bunch coriander, washed and chopped • ½ bunch mint, washed and sliced • 12 large rice paper rounds • FXS KRLVLQ VDXFH • 1 tbsp lemon juice • Lemon wedges, and sriracha (hot chilli) sauce, to serve, if desired

METHOD 1. Place minute steaks in a glass container or large bowl. Add tamari, Chinese rice wine, sugar, garam masala, star anise and chilli and allow marinating while you prepare the salad.

2. Prepare salad ingredients and a large bowl of water for the rice paper rounds.

3. Remove minute steaks from marinade and place onto a plate. Preheat a chargrill pan or BBQ to very hot. Grill for 1 minute each side until just cooked.

Rest, slice across the grain. Mix

hoisin and lemon juice in a small bowl.

4. Lay a clean tea towel on a bench or chopping board and dip one round in the water for 10-20 seconds until just pliable, not soft.

Place on a towel and place salad, sliced beef and a little hoisin dressing in the centre, fold in the sides, wrap firmly to enclose and stack on a platter.

5. Serve with remaining dressing, lemon wedges, and sriracha, if desired.

ESSENTIAL TIPS: • There are plenty of cut options that are quick and easy to grill on the barbecue or pan for this recipe. Try using rump, flat iron, skirt or sirloin as alternatives.

Feed the n a m o wman meat

OPEN Mon - Fri 6am - 5.30pm Sat 6am - 4pm Sun 7am - 3pm

YAMBA FAIR BUTCHERY

Yamba Fair Shopping Centre 6646

1038

March 2018

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117 Fitzroy St Grafton Phone: 6643 3115 EFTPOS & LAY BY WELCOME www.riversidebargains.com.au

WHEN YOU BUY, YOU HELP!

When you walk into Riverside Church's Bargain Centre you will be amazed at the range of new, refurbished and second hand furniture and whitegoods they have on offer.

All proceeds from the sale of these products helps to provide assistance to struggling families within the Clarence Valley by providing them with fresh fruit and vegetables, non-perishable food items and pharmaceutical products.

They also support many charity organisations such as Westpac Rescue Helicopter,

the Salvation Army, COME Uganda and Asian Tribal Ministries and Children of the Border.

COME Uganda is responsible for developing schools and hospital services in Kampala and the surrounding impoverished villages of central Uganda.

Asian Tribal Ministries and Children of the Border is an organisation which helps refugees and the homeless find shelter and safety in the mountain villages of Northern Thailand.

Riverside Church is a self funded Christian Church, not funded by the main body of their Christian organisation or by the Government.

When you buy from Riverside Church's Bargain Centre you know you are helping others in need.

Located at 117 Fitzroy Street, (the old Ford premises), the Centre is certainly worth a browse through.

The Centre is open Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm and on Saturday from 9am to 1pm.

Phone them on 6643 3115.

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March 2018

Create your own little bit of

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If your taste runs toward tropic-inspired interior design in your home, then our new range of furniture with hints of contemporary plantation style will help you create a classy seaside retreat for your home.

Using natural fibres such as rattan and the warmth of timber combined with whites, cool neutrals, blues and greens will help you keep things fresh and light.

You can’t go past our new range of rattan furniture when it comes to resort-style living at home. The soft tonal variation of rattan and the neutral warm timber frames provide a classic combination which gives this range its appeal. Combine with neutral upholstered fabric, exotic crewel accent cushions to provide comfort and style, and to add to the tropical aesthetic of this beautiful range, for a relaxed yet sophisticated setting.

A resort isn’t complete without beautiful lush greenery, so think about introducing some oversized plants for added colour and texture. A banana

Hello Tropical Living

plant in a beautiful ceramic ornate pot will make a grand statement, bringing a touch of the West Indies to your home.

Faux greenery is very effective now, so you don’t even need to worry about remembering to water the plants and we have a large range available at VAST. When finishing off your look think tropical art, coral and quirky island beach items such as old boat oars and vintage prints. One of the main inspirations behind this style is the vintage travel memorabilia such as old leather trunks which are still used today for storage and/ or side tables in small houses and will help to create your own little piece of paradise.

You can pick and choose some of the styling elements mentioned to help create a lovely Hamptons, Caribbean, Tropical or contemporary style.

Overall, a tropic inspired style is clean and uncluttered and should give your family a feeling of being on vacation in an exotic location every day…but whilst still in your own home.

March 2018

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MORE THAN JUST A GRANNY FLAT

If you are a home owner or investor why not capitalize on the land you already own by building a secondary dwelling.

Rentals can generate a lucrative second income and create high yielding rental returns to ensure an effective return on your investment. Renting a Granny Flat is a low risk â&#x20AC;&#x201C; high return investment that can have your property occupied and generating income in no time. So enquire today to see how your property can earn rental returns for you.

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GRANNY FLAT stablished in 2013, East Coast Granny Flats & Small Homes are leading the way with affordable, stylish and innovative granny flat installations and small homes on the Mid North Coast.

Our team of professional and experienced people are committed to exceeding expectations in every aspect of your project â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from our use of quality Australian made products, through to our exceptional customer service.

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Offering one-on-one support, creative flair and an eye for detail we work closely with clients to come up with inspired designs that suit any budget and lifestyle needs.

Construction time is from just 12 weeks and designs from $99,000; our affordable range provides an extensive collection to choose from with stunning outdoor entertaining spaces, fully self-contained functional designs, superb finishes and quality fixtures.

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Locksmith Service

Lic. No. 409341695 ABN 43 119 552 724

EST. 1980

• Automotive Lockout • Automotive Keys • Electronic Keys • Garage & Vehicle Remotes • CCTV and Safes

Ph: 6642 3344 • Mob: 0419 646 025 Fax: 6643 2733

24/7 EMERGENCY SERVICE

We stock parts.

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• Automotive Air-Conditioning Repairs & Installations • Auto Electrical Repairs • Discount Battery Sales

For all your Motor Vehicle Repairs

In fact. Burson keep more parts in stock than any other automotive chain, which means more time working and less time waiting.

And with an extensive store network, fleet of over 500 vehicles and the very best brands - you can rest assured you are talking to the best people in the game for everything automotive.

• Starter Motor & Alternator Repairs • On-site Service

Phone/Fax (02)6645 2377 Mobile 0428 453 581

• UHF Radio Sales & Installation • Car Audio Installations • Parts & Accessories

4 Stanley Street Maclean NSW 2463

Phone: 6645 1100

Vehicle Safety Check Authorised Inspection Station

A/H: 0409 950 639 Fax: 6645 4221 7 Ironbark Drive, Townsend NSW

PH 1300 BURSON (1300 28 77 66)

www.burson.com.au

Your trade specialist!

130 Prince Street, Grafton PH (02) 6641 0800

www.burson.com.au

Benny’s GRAFTON SMASH REPAIRS

WE ARE YAMBA’S LARGEST AUTOMOTIVE SERVICING AND REPAIR WORKSHOP Full Servicing & Repairs all makes & models eSafety Rego Checks including LPG Pre - Purchase Vehicle Checkovers Brake, Suspension, Cooling System, Exhaust Repairs & Servicing Batteries, Tyres Roadside Assistance Windscreen Chip Repairs

24/7 ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE 8 Favourite Ave YAMBA 6646 1777 NRMA Insurance Services available at Yamba & Maclean

www.seebreezemotors.com.au

Nathan Benn Smash Repairs Pty Ltd Lic. No. MVRL50916

IF YOU HAVE A DING GIVE BENNY A RING

Spray Baking Oven Insurance Claims Tilt Tray Towing 44 Villiers Street, Grafton 2460

WE PROVIDE A COMPREHENSIVE SERVICE INCLUDING: • Maintenance & • LP gas conversions general repair of & repairs passenger cars, light Air conditioning commercial vehicles • servicing & retro& motorcycles of all fitting makes & models • Tyre supply & fitting • Wheel alignments • Rego checks including LPG vehicles • Towbar fitting service

email: bennys@bennysgraftonsmashrepairs.com.au

6/9 PAPERBARK DR, TOWNSEND

PH: 6645 2310 Ph: 6642 2322

Fax: 6643 1049

yambamacleanauto@gmail.com March 2018

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JAGUAR XJ

luxury driving he XJ is the pinnacle of Jaguar’s saloon car line-up. The luxury sports saloon delivers an unrivalled combination of Jaguar design and driving dynamics along with the ultimate in luxury refinement for drivers and passengers.

The authoritative yet elegant design is formed around Jaguar’s aluminium-intensive architecture. Its low-slung coupe-like stance, precise lines and carefully judged proportions ensure it is instantly recognisable as a Jaguar from any angle.

Inside, customers experience a perfect com-

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6642 3085 SUPPORT YOUR LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED BUSINESS! HESSIONS HAVE BEEN SERVING SINCE 1980...

bination of intricate handmade details and beautifully crafted materials such as semi-aniline leather and inlay veneers alongside advanced technology. Rear occupants benefit from over a metre of legroom in long wheelbase models.

For 2018MY a new XJR575 performance flagship is available, with a number of unique exterior and interior design cues including two unique paint colours created by Special Vehicle Operations. Meanwhile, a distinctive 575 intaglio and diamond-quilted seating finished with additional 575 branding set the interior apart.

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OPEN MON - FRI 8AM - 5:30PM | SAT 8AM - 12:30PM

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March 2018

• The XJ reaffirms its status as the most dynamic, distinctive luxury saloon in the world • Performance flagship XJR575 delivers 423kW and 700Nm for seamless acceleration from its supercharged 5.0-litre V8 engine • XJR575 joins the line-up alongside XJ Premium Luxury, Portfolio, R-Sport and top-of-the-range Autobiography • Bold exterior design includes full LED headlights and unique double ‘J-Blade signature’ daytime running lights • Powerful 3.0-litre V6 diesel engine delivers 221kW/700Nm with CO2 emissions as low as 149g/km

Mechanical Repairs

Suppliers of: Oils/Filters Water Pumps Plug Leads CV Joints Uni Joints Engine Parts Suspension Parts Timing Kits 4x4 Parts & Accessories Coolant

AT A GLANCE

• Touch Pro infotainment offers door-to-door navigation, seamless iOS and Android connectivity • 10-inch central touchscreen features high-quality graphics and intuitive user interface • Reconfigurable 12.3-inch Interactive Driver Display offers full-screen navigation • All-Surface Progress Control enhances traction on low-friction surfaces such as snow and ice – all the driver has to do is steer • Black Pack options for subtly enhanced exterior styling

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Enquiries - Ph: 6643 2333

• Suite of advanced Driver Assistance systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with Queue Assist, Reverse Traffic Detection, Blind Spot Monitoring, 360-degree Surround Camera System and semiautomated bay- and parallel-parking

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rlsc@clarence.nsw.gov.au

JOIN IN - GET FIT - HAVE FUN MONDAY

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www.

MACLEAN SPORTS CENTRE

Team Nomination forms are available at the Raymond Laurie Sports Centre.

Digital copies are also available on our website.

RAYMOND LAURIE SPORTS CENTRE

March 2018

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CAFE • ROASTERY • RESTAURANT Fully licensed. Now open Sundays.

Mon-Fri 6.45am-5pm, Sat 7am-2.30pm, Sun 8am-2.30pm 275 River St Maclean. 6645 5541 www.botero.com.au ǑǕ

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March 2018