The winter scene

SCENE Magazine Winter 2017

July Racing Carnival Edition Chasing my dream - Rachael Noakes

Inside:

Grafton’s racing carnival: still cutting the mustard - Michael Beattie Living spirits... from then to Zen - Sonja Tallis Hey Smokey, where’re ya headed, mate?

- Ben Allmon

Health Fashion Food Travel Motoring

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From under the desk...

Do we really need more rain? It’s so wet that even my ducks are looking for gumboots.

I have come to the conclusion that Mother Nature is going through menopause - and in a big way.

One minute it’s hot flushes and all we get are 40 degree days, the next it’s the sweats and it’s pouring with rain. I only hope I am not around when she starts getting shitty.

Let’s hope that symptom holds off until the July Racing Carnival is over at least.

Speaking of racing, we have a huge July Racing Carnival feature in this issue, with everything you need to know – what’s on, what to wear, where to buy it and Grafton Shoppingworld’s Fashions On The Field requirements. We also take a look at the history of the carnival. Michael Beattie, the manager of the Clarence River Jockey Club, gives us his insight into this year’s event.

This issue once again sees some great work by our journalists.

Rachael Noakes shares her passion for helping people and her love for music with Lynne Mowbray.

Geoff Helisma talks with Sonja Tallis, a former pop star and actress - she was one of the ‘top dogs’ out of the TV drama Prisoner - before she had a spiritual epiphany in the late 1980s, which led her to become a clairvoyant.

We also have a chapter of Ben Allmon’s book Foot Notes, and he shares some of his experiences on how the book came about with Geoff.

If you’re looking to buy a car - take a look at some of the top brands in our motoring section.

If you’re off to the races, here’s hoping Mother Nature is having a good week.

Good luck with your punting and your heels – mud and stilettos are definitely not a perfect match.

I’ll see you when the mud dries. Happy reading.

Lynda

SCENE Features

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Chasing my dream Rachael Noakes

Living spirits - from then to zen Sonja Tallis

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Grafton’s racing carnival - still cutting the mustard Michael Beattie

37.

Hey Smokey, where’re ya headed mate? Ben Allmon

Lynda

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Grafton’s July Racing Carnival pages 13-28 Plus a glimpse of racing on the North Coast and Gold Coast no

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Address: Unit 4/1, Fairtrader Drive, Yamba Business Park Phone: 02 6646 9466 Web: www.cvindependent.com.au Email: sales@cvreview.com.au Published by Greysen Enterprises t/a the Clarence Valley Independent Printed by APN Warwick

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

General Manager Ann Mazzitelli Sub Editor Lynda Davidson Journalists Geoff Helisma Lynne Mowbray Josh McMahon

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.

Graphic Designers Rebecca Smith Chloe Billington Lynda Davidson Sales Consultants Fran Dowsett Jude Myers Chloe Dowsett

Regular Features 29. Food 32. Health

40. Travel 44. Motoring

Front cover image: Lynne Mowbray

Greysen Enterprises is not responsible for views or comments contained in advertisements.

Therefore, it is the advertisers or their agency’s responsibility to ensure the content and claims in their advertisements are not in breach of the Trade Practices Act.

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

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June 2017

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FEATURE

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Rachael Noakes talks with Lynne Mowbray from the Independent about her experience as a contestant on The Voice, her life, faith, dreams and helping the community in which she lives.

Grafton’s Rachael Noakes shot into the spotlight recently after appearing as a contestant on the TV talent show, The Voice.

The 23-year-old, who works as assistant manager at Cotton On in Grafton, said that she grew up in a musical family, in Grafton.

“I’ve sung, pretty much all my life,” said Rachael.

“My father Steve sings and plays the guitar and mum Rita is very passionate [about music], but I think I inherited the musical genes from dad.

“I play both the piano and violin; however I lost my passion for the violin when I discovered my love for singing.

“My five sisters are also very musical; a couple of them play guitar and most of them play the piano.

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: Lynn

“Growing up in Grafton, we attended both the Riverside and New Life Churches, where we performed as a family group as part of the musical team.”

Rachael attended South Grafton High School, however, she swapped to home schooling for a couple of years due to her sister Sarah’s involvement in tennis and travelling the tennis circuit with her family.

Rachael furthered her education at Queensland University of Technology (QUT), studying Bachelor of Music and minored in the ‘studies of counselling’.

“I did psychology alongside my music, which was really amazing because I was interested in doing music therapy at one point and I’m still interested in it.

“It’s so amazing and intriguing what music can do to the brain.

Rachael performs at her EP launch.

“It’s still something that I’m really interested in.

“I’m passionate about helping people, so it’s something that I’m looking at [in the future], I just have to see how I could factor it in, especially if I want music to be [a main focus] in my life.

“As part of my uni degree I had to produce an EP called Unknown, which I released two years ago in Brisbane.

Rachael said that every year she would watch The Voice on TV and listen to the contestants’ voices and compare herself to them.

“I have always admired the courage of those who have gone on the show and experienced the judge’s approval, when they turned their chairs around during the blind auditions,” she said.

“I always doubted I was good enough to do that.

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“I was lying in bed one night last year, when I saw an advertisement for applications to audition for this year’s series of The Voice.

“I felt a tug in my heart and I was like, ‘OK, Lord I’m going to give this to you’. If you want to open the door then open the door and if you don’t, then don’t.

“The first step was applying online and you had to send in a little video.

“Mine was just an Instagram video that I had previously made. I didn’t put any hardcore effort into it, I really just left it up to God to open the door and then I kind of forgot about it.

“A couple of weeks went by and I got an email saying congratulations you have got a face to face audition out of hundreds and hundreds of people that have auditioned online.

feature “I didn’t have words to describe how [wonderful] that made me feel.

“I thought ‘yes’ this is a step in the right direction. I’ve always wanted music but I’ve never really chased it, until now.

“I think I was always too scared to chase it.”

The blind auditions for The Voice aired in May this year with Rachael choosing to sing the Delta Goodrem hit song Dear Life, which she performed before a panel of four judges; her idol Delta Goodrem, Kelly Rowland, Boy George and Seal.

As Delta turned her chair around, a nervous Rachael briefly forgot her words, but managed to cover her mistake well. She later told Delta (tongue in cheek) ‘no one will ever know’, to which Delta replied: ‘well I know!’

Rachael described her performance as being like an ‘out of body experience’.

“It was like my soul just left my body and was watching me on the stage. I saw Delta turn around and then I was watching myself forget the lyrics and I was like, ‘oh my God what are you doing!’!

“I don’t know how to describe it, but I honestly watched myself forget the lyrics.”

Rachael later wrote on her Facebook page, “I may have forgotten the lyrics, but I’ll never forget this feeling.”

Rachael made it through to the next stage, the knockout round, singing Justin Bieber’s Love Yourself, but failed to secure a win or a ‘steal’ to remain in the competition.

Rachael said that she loved every second of her experience.

“It was an amazing experience meeting the crew and the other artists. I honestly wouldn’t change it for the world,” she said.

“Everyone keeps asking me what my plans are now and I think I’m still trying to find the answer to that.

“One thing I am focusing on is getting my confidence up and seizing every opportunity that comes my way. Whether it is interviews or gigs, whatever pops up. I also need to work on making my own opportunities.

“I want to get more involved within the community here in Grafton; like getting involved with the Jacaranda Festival,” Rachael said, smiling broadly.

Rachael has just nominated as a Jacaranda Queen candidate.

“Although I know a lot of people in Grafton, I don’t really know them.

“Apart from work, I don’t have much interaction with the community and, as a candidate, this will give me more opportunities to do that.

“My mum is involved a lot within the community and I think that it would be really good for me

to get more involved and meet more people and try and make a difference.”

Rachael hopes to use the next 12 months to boost her confidence levels and to grow within herself.

“I’m interested in having another go at The Voice next year, but I’m still thinking about it at this stage.

“I need to show that I have grown over the twelve months and then who knows, I may go further.

“At the moment I’m just going to concentrate on writing as many songs as I can.”

Writing has helped Rachael to express herself more, through her music.

“If I’m feeling something I try and just write it down, to try and get it out of my system. It may not be a really good song, but it helps me to cope, by getting those feeling out.

“No matter what I do in life, I want to use my gifts ‘For Good and for God’ – I don’t want to use them just willy-nilly and let life pass me by.

“I totally believe 100-per-cent that God has given me this gift for a reason and a purpose and for a season as well.

“For example; With Grafton‘s high suicide rate, I would never have thought that my personal journey on The Voice could impact on people.

“When people saw me having the courage to chase my dreams by going on The Voice, they would go up to my mother and say that it was wonderful to see something good coming out of Grafton, to take away the focus on the bad things that had happened and give hope to our young people.

“I’ve had young girls especially, come up to me and say, ‘you know if you can do it, maybe I can do it.’

“The other day I had a mother with her primary school aged daughter come in to work.

“As they were leaving the mum said to me, ‘It was good to see your courage [by being a contestant on The Voice] and it gives little girls like mine hope and courage to maybe do it themselves one day.’

“It was a precious thing for that lady to say.

“It makes you feel good that you could be a positive role model in the community and I believe that God gave me this opportunity for a reason and a purpose.”

“No matter what I do in life, I want to use my gifts ‘For Good and for God’ – I don’t want to use them just willy-nilly and let life pass me by.

“IT’S SO AMAZING AND INTRIGUING WHAT MUSIC CAN DO TO THE BRAIN.” Rachael and her sisters, accompanied by their dad Steve, performing at church.

Image: contributed

Rachael performs at Carols by Candlelight in Newcastle.

Rachael Noakes performs on stage during the live auditions on The Voice. Image: Courtesy ITV Studios

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June 2017

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FEATURE When spiritualism is spoken of or encountered it’s a given that another ‘ism’ – scepticism – will not be far away in the minds of many: is it a case of dogma versus atheism?

Living spirits from then to Zen

GEOFF HELISMA

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In the Christian world the existence of God is an indisputable truth; Jesus was resurrected, it’s Christianity’s central focus. Then there’s heaven, the place where the righteous live their afterlives; and, so, there are similar belief practices across other religions.

Spiritualism on the other hand is often judged by sceptics as being akin to being off with the fairies. The Oxford dictionary defines spiritualism as “a system of belief or religious practice based on supposed communication with the spirits of the dead, especially through mediums” or, in philosophical terms, “the doctrine that the spirit exists as distinct from matter, or that spirit is the only reality”.

Capitalised, the word is also a descriptor for “a movement comprising religious organisations emphasising spiritualism”, according to the Merriam Webster dictionary. The USA’s National Spiritualist Association of Churches defines it more specifically as “the science, philosophy and religion of continuous life, based upon the demonstrated fact of communication, by means of medium-ship, with those who live in the spirit world”.

Real or not, spiritualism, in its different guises, is embraced by millions of people around the world among different belief systems.

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This is Alan...

Alan has a great accountant.

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CS©170621

Woolgoolga resident Reverend Sonja Tallis is clairvoyant, clairsentient and clairaudient. She conducts psychic readings four times a week: Thursdays and Saturdays at the States of Grace College at Mona Vale, Sydney; and in her home town on Tuesdays. ‘Attune to unconditional love’ is States of Grace’s mission statement.

Or, more specifically: ‘Awaken your psychic and medium gifts; heal your body, mind and spirit; reclaim your power and your life; know your inner self and your life path.’

However, Tallis wasn’t always this way. Before her spiritual epiphany in the late 1980s she was a pop star and an actress.

Having left school, the seventeen-year-old was working at an office job in Sydney’s CBD. It was 1960 and Tallis was “miserable doing filing, typing and nobody spoke to anybody”. Suffering a debilitating illness, she resigned and, soon after, met “two guys in a music shop who had heard me singing somewhere” – she subsequently joined them and began her music career.

This arrangement continued until the group broke up; after which she met Sean Cullip, a classically trained guitarist, who “played beautifully”. The duo performed as ‘Sean and Sonja’.

“We hit it off,” says Tallis. “Our voices blended so beautifully.

We did that for 11 years; we made three albums with CBS and we had some singles. We did a huge amount of television, especially on Bandstand, which sent us over to Mexico City to represent Australia in the Mexico song competition, and we sang for about five thousand people.”

Ironically, Tallis says she has no “memory of it at all; I was so terrified”.

“We went overseas and represented Australia; we sang for the troops while the Vietnam War was on. We went to Saigon and all of that; it was pretty incredible. We did a huge amount of television, and then Sean decided he wanted out; after 11 years he didn’t want to do it anymore.”

During this time the duo branched out into performing in musicals, one if which was Man of Sorrows. “It was an Australian musical ... and I got a taste for acting for the first time – Lorrae Desmond had a big part in writing it.” Desmond was an award-winning singer, entertainer and character actress who co-wrote the musical with Peggy Topanno. Man of Sorrows was first produced and performed in Melbourne under the title, The Jesus Christ Revolution.

Tallis and Cullip were cast members of the Sydney production, which played in 1972.

“In my early thirties, I went to the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney and studied a three-year honours diploma with [American actor and director] Hayes Gordon.”

Tallis landed roles in various stage and television productions in the 1980s, including television shows The Young Doctors, Sweet and Sour and Sons and Daughters, but she is best known for playing Nora Flynn, a reformed triple murderer, in Prisoner.

“The scripts were sometimes not as good as they could be; but Prisoner had a huge following. I remember one director actually ripped up a script and chucked it over his shoulder,”

laughs Tallis, mimicking the director’s actions.

“I became the ‘top dog’, I was the second last top dog – the other TD got killed in a massacre. I said to the producer, ‘How can I be a top dog?

All of the other girls tower over me and I’m sort of looking up at them; it’s not going to work.’

“I went home and had think about it ... I can’t be physically strong (I’m five foot three and a bit). All the other girls were tall – ‘Can we take a bit of a gamble?’” Tallis mused. “‘Can we do it so I’m not physically the toughie; can I work it with my mind?’ One of the directors I was working with said, ‘One look could be [worth] five pages of Sean and Sonja, were a popular singing duo of the 60s and 70s, making regular television appearances and dialogue’. I’ve never touring overseas. forgotten that.”

Production of the “We made three albums with CBS,” says Tallis, but she show, which screened has no “memory of it at all; I was so terrified.” two hour-long episodes each week, was hectic. Tallis recalls hearing a cast member crumbling under the pressure. “We were in separate rooms down in Melbourne, it was pretty lonely.

I remember hearing her crying.

We’d get up at five or six in the morning and get back to the unit at about seven o’clock.

“I could hear it through the wall. I knocked on the door and said, ‘How are you going?’ She said, ‘I feel as though I’m in prison doing this.’”

Tallis was quoted in a TV Week feature story on May 5, 1985, about her role in Prisoner: “I’m up at the crack of dawn and I arrive home late and tired. And on the weekends all I’m doing is learning my lines for the week ahead. I sound like I’m complaining, but I don’t mean to, it’s just a fact. And I wouldn’t give this opportunity up for quids.”

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“SO I STOOD UP AND SAID, ‘THERE IS NO WAY YOU CAN FAKE THAT BECAUSE I FELT THE ENERGY.”

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Becoming a spiritualist “came about in stages”, Tallis says.

In the late 1980s she met Pennie Torres –known as Ammaji to her students at The Foundation for Meditative Studies in Ashland, Oregon, USA – who was interviewed

by Ray Martin and made a TV appearance on the ABC during her Australian visit.

In the interview on the Ray Martin Show (part of which can be viewed on You Tube) Ammaji channels (speaks as) Isa Mafu; who is variously described as an ancient soul who lived 17 lives over 30,000 years, or as a leper in first century Pompeii who speaks through Ammaji.

The Foundation for Meditative Studies says: “Mafu offers a unique and glorious pathway for all seekers of the Truth to walk into the light of their own awakening [by] presenting the eternal secrets of the Universe in a way that can be embraced by seekers from the West.”

At the time, Tallis was in a state of flux. “Things that meant a lot to me were going out of my life. Friends had died. I moved; everything was sort of new, and the acting world was changing; different people were coming in. I was just going through a feeling of, ‘What am I doing?’”

Tallis says she’d never heard of Torres or her role as Ammaji before meeting her through “a friend who was a journalist and had a link with one of the radio stations in Melbourne”.

“She had an interview with Ammaji,” says Tallis. “We were with her at the radio station and Ammaji comes up and talks to us. It was incredible.

At the time, though, there was a huge amount of scepticism.

“[Ammaji] goes into the booth to be interviewed and brings Mafu through. Then Mafu’s [spirit] comes straight over to me. I’d seen him on these two television shows and he spoke to me and said a couple of things, which were, at the time, very pow erful. I had to sort of work out what it was later ... something had happened.

“The knowledge that comes out of Ammaji while she’s channelling him is utterly profound.”

However, when asked to describe her revelation, Tallis says it was “private” and declines to elaborate.

“But also on the show,” she says, “someone reckoned [Ammaji] was a fake. As an actor, I know the type of energy that a channelled entity gives. So I stood up and said, ‘There is no way you can fake that, because I felt the energy.’ That was my first connection with the energy.

“He [Isa Mafu] gave a big demonstration and talked about a lot of things: the pyramids, Machu Pitchu, he talked about some lost civilisations and then he came up to me again and spoke to me about my ‘realisation’ and what I needed to do in this lifetime.

“Then I had a private audience, and he spoke to me again [through Ammaji] about ... things that resonated and then I was asked if I’d like to go and do a workshop in Oregon, USA. I just said, ‘yes’, straight away, because I was going through this bit of a slump in my life.”

Soon after, Tallis and a friend flew to Oregon to participate in what was meant to be a two-week program.

“I waved to Mum with a little suitcase in my hand and said, ‘See you in 15 days Mum.’ Flying over the mountains [of Oregon] I was looking down and they were snow-capped

and I just started crying. It felt like I had connected with something – the mountains, snow ... it just touched me so much; it was beautiful.

“Something was happening to me that I couldn’t understand.”

When the two weeks had passed, Tallis had embraced Buddhism, which, with Hinduism and Sufism, was among the teachings imparted during her seva (selfless service, without material reward – “Work you do in a place and you’re doing it for spirit or God.”).

She was invited to take up residence, free of charge.

“I said, ‘yes’, and my friend went back to Melbourne.

Everything was given to me; other people paid thousands [of dollars to live on the ashram].”

Reflecting on her spiritual awakening, Tallis says she discovered signs and experiences from her earlier life that were precursors of her destiny. “I’d never had a religion until I became a Buddhist,” she says. “I love words, I love writing. I do a huge amount of writing. And being an actor I love Shakespeare, the stage, the beautiful prose. In my books ... I used to write about higher things; about people having these epiphanies and things like that. [Now] I say going to the ashram was my conscious spiritual path.

“I didn’t know at the time, but looking back now ... all these dots started joining up.

If you believe in reincarnation and past lives and things like that – I had a link with Him [Isa Mafu] in one of his past lives, which became very obvious. I also feel I have a very strong link with Buddhism, because of all the things that had happened prior to that.”

Over the three years Tallis spent at the ashram, she lived a Spartan life, gaining enlightenment from the experience.

“We did chanting, we did mediation, we learnt about healing; we also lived a sort of domestic life. I was given a whole lot of artwork, because I’m an artist, too. I did a lot of calligraphy. I cleaned toilets, I worked in the office, I did the cooking and I worked in the temple. I worked outside and dug ditches for rubbish – I did absolutely everything.

“Sometimes we did retreats and did the most incredible meditations. There would be Native American drums played and doing things with Kundalini for energy. Then we’d do a lot of philosophy – it was 24/7 all of the time.”

During the several years after returning to Australia, Tallis says that “a lot of people I loved” died. “I went through another lull in my life, then I met this lady who is incredible; she’s a born psychic and we now have a very strong connection.”

The ‘lady’ was Reverend Dianne Parker, with whom Tallis now works at States of Grace College. “From that I started getting introduced to psychic medium-ship, trance, Reiki ... all these sorts of things.

I teach psychic work now and I didn’t have to change from being a Buddhist.

Spiritualism and Buddhism are just like that,” she says, crossing her fingers.

Tallis says that most people ‘feel’ the unseen energies that surround them.

“Everybody is psychic – like when we have a gut feeling.

It’s like you can walk into a room where someone has had a fight and you walk into it and they stop; you can feel it. Doing psychic work leads to medium-ship ... working with energies.

“Psychic work is about reading somebody’s aura, without getting too technical.

Trance or channelling work is just manipulating the energies; and that is all it is.”

She cites the reactions of certain animals before the occurrence of natural disasters as another example of instinctive intuition. The United States Government agency, USGS Earthquake Hazards Program, discusses this phenomenon on its website, earthquake.usgs. gov. The agency, which is charged with providing and applying “relevant earthquake science information and knowledge to reduce deaths, injuries, and property damage from earthquakes”, equivocates, however, when it comes to a conclusion, stating: “Anecdotal evidence abounds of animals, fish, birds, reptiles, and insects exhibiting strange behaviour, anywhere from weeks to seconds, before an earthquake.

feature “However, consistent and reliable behaviour prior to seismic events, and a mechanism explaining how it could work, still eludes us.”

So how does a clairvoyant ‘see’ or connect with these energies?

“Because they are on a higher vibration, people can’t see them.

It’s like, you can see my hand now, but if I do this you can’t see it,” Tallis says, moving her hand rapidly back and forth. “They’re operating at such a high frequency [then] they bring their energy down and we [mediums] bring our energy up to meet it. So it’s just about manipulating energies.”

What are the positive things about using the services of a sentient person to connect with those deceased?

“When we lose someone that we love, there is, inside of us, an aching, a longing,” Tallis says. “And, also, I’ve heard this from other people: they want to know [their deceased loved-ones] are alright.

Or is that the end of them? Dead is dead, that’s it?

“And then they hear, ‘no, life is ongoing’. The Bible; all of the religions will say that life is ongoing, you don’t die. Our souls exist forever. The body’s gone, but the energy [that was in it] lasts forever.”

She recounts an experience she had conducting a spiritual service.

“It was at a reading I was doing on a platform on a stage. ‘Can anybody identify this person I am describing?’ I’m putting out evidence [of spirits in the room] and asking: ‘Does anyone accept this?’ and someone says: ‘Yes, that’s my husband who passed.’ I talked to her a little bit more about it and I could see her face changing. Tears started to come down her cheeks. I was talking about the things he did and she said: ‘Yes, yes, he loved music.’

“And I said, ‘You used to go on

Sonia Tallis playing the role of ‘top dog’ and triple murderer Nora Flynn in Prisoner.

Tallis as she was depicted in a story titled Folk star to felon

It was a ‘mass breakout’ TV Week wrote in 1985, when Tallis’s and her some of co-stars’ time on Prisoner came to an end.

walks together.’ She said: ‘Yes, we went for walks and we’d walk along parklands.’ It was like bringing all of that back and a lot of things that she’d forgotten.

She was starting to open up. It was almost like he was there, his energy was, not his body. After the service she came and saw me and said: ‘Thank you so much; I believe now that they [spirits] are around.’”

Tallis then recalls one of her own experiences, one that contributed towards her affirmation with the spirit world. “Let me tell you something,” she extols. “My mum died, and this is just a little bit of why I started this; I adored my mother and I was an only child. I’m in the garden and I’m talking to Mum and [I’m thinking]: ‘Why am I wasting my time talking to you like this because I feel so stupid.’

I’m playing with the hose and something made me turn around and, lo and behold, I saw my mother as I am looking at you now.”

Tallis lowers her voice to a whisper for a moment, “Then she just went.”

“And it was proof; she’d been able to come. She’d manipulated the energies somehow and that happened again the next day, but not as strong as the first.

From then on,” she emphasises, “I did not doubt at all.”

Tallis traces her spiritual affinity to a disposition she believes she was born with. “I was at school, I was about 16; it was the first time I helped someone at a disadvantage, she was very nervy and had no

“ALL OF THE RELIGIONS WILL SAY THAT LIFE IS ONGOING, YOU DON’T DIE.” confidence. I could see how shy and frightened she was, so I helped her, verbally, to make her believe in herself.

“She still sends me artwork that she does; beautiful artwork ... and she is helping people now, too.

“I’ve devoted my life to helping people; always have. Ever since I was this big, I have wanted to help people. [Spiritualism] is a way I can help people and still include all of the other things – my singing, acting, teaching; all of it I use now.

So it’s not like it has negated the acting or the singing – I sing and help people with voice production and writing.

“We’ve sort of lost direction – people just want to make money, money, money ... instead of connecting with each other and helping each other.

My spiritual work is just a form of helping people – some people do body work, some people go in and clean somebody’s house. [My work] is just another way of helping with the healing.”

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We have you covered at Vast

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Cosy Winter Throws

Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 4pm Sun 10am - 2pm

My favourite way to take the chill out of winter (and it’s my sneaky self indulgence) is to buy a new throw for winter. So why not pamper yourself with a soft, cosy and oh so affordable throw this year from gorgeous linens, chunky knits, faux fur, velour or even our gorgeous Indian cotton kantha throws. A lot of people confine their new throw to the bedroom, but adding them to your lounge or daybed with some additional cushions will ensure that your home exudes the visual warmth that we all crave through winter.

Cushions A girl can never have too many cushions, and they are an easy way to add some lux-inspired, deeper-coloured tones to your home, to bring in some warmth during the cooler months. Try to inject rich tones like rust, browns and mustard or maybe some soft linens or faux fur for a bit of texture. Add these to your favourite throw to layer your textures and fabrics to provide that extra bit of warmth and to create a welcoming cocoon on your lounge, daybed or bed – that you won’t want to leave.

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Light the candles Not everyone can have a fireplace but they can have candles!

We can all do that and there is nothing I like better on a cold winter night than to light some candles.

Candles will help create a beautiful soft, warm light and add a little bit of romance perfect for a cosy night of the couch.

Another added bonus for candles is the fragrance they let off, which freshens up your home, and they are great for covering up that damp smell we all get when the house is closed up over those horrible winter days. I have to say, my favourite winter scent is lemongrass, which always makes everything smell so fresh.

We have two beautiful candle ranges available at Vast, the Elume pillar candles and melts and Be Enlightened glass candles. Of course, keeping candles around means you need to follow a few basic safety precautions: the main one being to never leave your candle unattended.

Not only will your efforts allow you to enjoy a warmer winter at home, these easy budget-friendly ideas will help reduce your energy bill big time! So start shopping!

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2017

July Racing Carnival

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Image: CRJC

JULY RACING CARNIVAL - DON’T MISS THE FUN

3-13 JULY 2014 * BE THERE

6 JULY - WESTLAWN FINANCE PRELUDE DAY 9 JULY - GRAFTON TOYOTA SOUTH CUP DAY 12 JULY - GRAFTON DISTRICT SERVICES CLUB RAMORNIE HANDICAP DAY 13 JULY - McKIMMS REAL ESTATE GRAFTON CUP DAY 16 JULY - MACLEAN BOWLING CLUB MACLEAN CUP DAY

MARQUEES ~ VIP TICKETS ~ PREMIER SEATING AVAILABLE LOANS & INVESTMENTS INSURANCE WEALTH MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING & TAXATION

Grafton District Services Club

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July Racing Carnival

d r a t s u m e h t still cutting

GRAFTON’S RACING CARNIVAL:

In 2013, Clarence River Jockey Geoff Helisma: What’s your Club’s (CRJC) manager, Michael expectation, in broad terms, for Beattie, was confronted with a this year’s carnival (top horses, change to the Queensland Winter jockeys that might be coming, etcetera)?

Carnival, which resulted in a clash Michael Beattie: We expect, of dates that could reduce the with early conversations we are quality of fields for the July having with the major stables, carnival’s two feature races, the that interest in the carnival Grafton Cup and the Ramornie is continuing to be very strong. We’d be shocked if Handicap. At the time, he said the all the major players aren’t CRJC would have to “work to establish involved in the carnival in the Grafton carnival as a viable some way. alternative to Queensland, to continue GH: In 2013, you told to attract top names to the local races”. the Independent that Geoff Helisma caught up with Mr Beattie there was a carnival at the Caloundra races in to find out how things have progressed.

Queensland that coincided with the Grafton carnival and that it would compete for the attention of the top stables; is this still an issue?

MB: It’s not as much of an issue. We’ve been able to have a much better variance in relation to when the

“I DON’T THINK WE COULD HAVE HOPED FOR A BETTER RESULT THAN WHAT WE HAVE ACHIEVED.”

Image: CRJC

Caloundra Cup is run compared to the Grafton Cup. From year to year, there was a possibility that they could be run within the same week. That is no longer the case. We come in 12 days after the Caloundra Cup. From that perspective, it is now a perfect lead-in to the Grafton Cup. GH: Now that several years have passed; did it have a negative effect on the quality of the horses that raced at the Grafton carnivals in the two signature races, the cup and the Ramornie Handicap?

MB: I think the fact that we’ve been able to lock in the 12-day difference, for what is effectively the end of the Queensland Winter Carnival [July 1] and the Grafton Cup [July 13] and Ramornie Handicap [July 12], I think that ensures we get high quality horses in both those races.

GH: What about on the punters’ side, with the introduction of so many ways to have a bet in the digital world, do you still have a good contingent of on-course bookies to take their wagers?

MB: We do. We’ve managed to keep the level of bookmakers at around 25, fielding on the local events. From a country carnival perspective in NSW, that is at the higher end of what you would expect to attract.

The added advantage is that we get 25 high quality bookies.

So it’s a very, very strong betting ring.

GH: That doesn’t seem like many bookmakers when compared to the 100 or so that used to field during the 1940s and ’50s.

MB: It’s not only the digital age that has affected that. At the time when we had a 100 bookies fielding at Grafton, there were probably 1,000 licensed bookies throughout the state. I doubt if there are100 licensed bookies in NSW now.

GH: Back in 2013 you also said that the CRJC now needed to work to establish the Grafton carnival as a viable alternative to QLD, to continue to attract top names to the local races – what is you assessment of that rational and its outcome?

MB: I don’t think we could have hoped for a better result than what we have achieved.

The best way to judge

that is by the quality of the horses that are coming down and competing in the major events.

Since that time we have been absolutely able to achieve that.

Since I made that statement prior to the 2013 carnival there have been four Grafton cups run; two of those were won by Gai Waterhouse [2014 and 2015]. The third one was won by Ciaron Maher [2013], who is a leading trainer in Melbourne. He’s had runners in the next two Grafton cups; he’s come back trying to win it. It’s a clear indication that we have undoubtedly achieved what we were trying to achieve.

GH: I note that the prize money for the cup is $5,000 less than it was 1999; could you please comment on that and also how prize money for the other eight listed races has progressed or regressed?

MB: The situation in relation to the comparison you draw, the original reason the prize money across all of NSW was negatively affected, was because ... of the privatisation of the TAB. It came back to the way the funding flowed to the clubs. That took a long time for all country clubs, which ran significant ‘black type’ races, to come to terms with. Once that was bedded in we have been able to continue to grow the prize money. When you put that into real terms across all of Racing NSW; that makes [the Grafton Cup and the Ramornie Handicap] the two highest listed races in NSW for the months of June and July – metropolitan racing included.

GH: Did the government make promises at the time (1998) that the racing industry would benefit from the privatisation of the TAB? MB: I wasn’t in a position within administration of racing at the time ... but there is no doubt, in my view, that it was the first step in what were many steps to ensure that racing into the future remained properly funded.

Racing NSW went on, as an entity, ensuring that we were properly funded through Race Fields Legislation, through the corporate bookmaker turnover levy and, finally, through tax parity. I suppose it’s one of those situations where you had to take a step to start with, and privatisation was the first step in moving to a different funding model, which we are now seeing the benefit of.

July Racing Carnival

JULY RACING CARNIVAL

PROGRAMME

It's that time of year again, Grafton July Racing Carnival time and Grafton doesn't hold back when it comes to the annual racing event.

Held over five days the Clarence River Jockey Club's carnival is one of the richest non-metropolitan racing events in Australia and is one of the highpoints of country racing in NSW.

Westlawn Finance Prelude Day

- Thursday July 6, 2017 Opening Day of the 2017 July Carnival Free entry courtesy of Westlawn Finance Grafton Cup Prelude - winner gets entry to Grafton Cup John Carlton Cup - winner gets entry to Ramornie Handicap Fashions on the Field Gates open - TBA

Grafton Toyota South Grafton Cup Day

- Sunday July 9, 2017 Grafton Toyota South Grafton Cup (1,600m) Grafton Shoppingworld Fashions on the Field “Lady of the Carnival� chosen Traditional ladies day during raceweek Live Music on the WestLawn Gates open TBA Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

Grafton District Services Club Ramornie Handicap Day

- Wednesday July 12, 2017 $160,000 Grafton District Services Club Ramornie Handicap (1,200m) $50,000* Tursa Employment & Training Inglis Bonus Grafton Guineas (1,600m) *$50,000 Inglis Bonus applies if nominated to the Inglis Race Series Buses to and from the Racecourse Live Music on the WestLawn Gates open TBA Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

McKimms Real Estate Grafton Cup Day

- Thursday July 13, 2017 $160,000 Grafton Cup (2,350m) Grafton Shoppingworld Cup Day Fashions on the Field Buses to and from the Racecourse Live Music on the WestLawn Grafton’s biggest social event Fashions on the Field Gates open TBA Tickets will be available from the CRJC office Information is correct at time of printing.

For more information go to www.crjc.com.au Images: CRJC

Maclean Bowling Club Maclean Cup Day

- Sunday July 16, 2017 Maclean Bowling Club Maclean Cup (1,400m) Final day of the carnival Live Music on the WestLawn Grafton Shoppingworld Kids Fashions events Free kids entertainment Gates open TBA Tickets will be available from the CRJC office

Springboard to Fame Feature Races Grafton Cup (Listed) $160,000 Grafton District Services Club (GDSC) Ramornie Hcp (Listed) $160,000 Tursa Inglis Grafton Guineas (3YO) *$50,000 *$50,000 Inglis Bonus if winner is eligible Sir James Kirby Handicap $50,000 Grafton Motor Group Sth Grafton Cup $50,000 Sky Thoroughbred Central Mother’s Gift F&M Open Hcp $50,000 NBN 2yo Plate $45,000 The Big Maiden Handicap $30,000 Maclean Bowling Club Maclean Cup $30,000

. .. s e c a r e h t t a Join us an Cup Race Day!

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Maclean Cup Calcutta Night Come along to the Club for a great night ÀOOHG ZLWK IXQ WULYLD DQG SKDQWRP FDOO

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Maclean Cup family day $30,000 Maclean Bowling Club Maclean Cup (1,400m) ‡ *UDIWRQ 6KRSSLQJZRUOG .LGV )DVKLRQV RQ WKH )LHOG ‡ .LGV DFWLYLWLHV DQG HQWHUWDLQPHQW ‡ /LYH 0XVLF RQ WKH :HVWODZQ 7LFNHWV WR WKH 0DFOHDQ &XS )HUU\ RU &RDFK Includes hot breakfast, drinks and tickets to Members Stand plus race book and chinese smorgasbord dinner on return to the &OXE 7LFNHWV DYDLODEOH IRU PHPEHUV WR SXUFKDVH DW RIÀFH

1a McLachlan Street, Maclean

Ph: 6645 3711 www.macleanbowlingclub.com.au SCENE

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July Heading Racing Carnival

A bit of Grafton Cup

HIST The Grafton Cup has not only survived over a century of challenges, but has thrived to remain one of country NSW’s leading horse racing events.

Images: Grafton Historical Society - Schaeffer House

Breakfast on all July Race Days and a every other day

JACARANDA HOTEL INMENT LIVE ENTERTA N CUP AFTER GRAFTO - 9PM SABOTAGE 6PM

BISTRO

- 2PM LUNCH 12PM IDAY FR TO Y TUESDA - 8:30PM DINNER 5:30PMSATURDAY THURSDAY TO

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NEW STALL HOLDERS WELCOME TO APPLY

Home Brew Supplies

Trash & treasure, locally made giftware, jewellery, baked goods, preserves & plants...

Museum Open

Tea, coffee & cooked breakfast available

unctions • Coach Tours • Birthdays/F to book! call a us Give ~ • Private Outings

SUNDAYS

E LENTEIRTV AINMENT

154 Pound St, GRAFTON Ph: 6642 6627

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at Squatters Rest

Held 2nd Sunday of every month from 8am until noon

KENSEI BIG BREAKFAST ONLY $9 • BYRON BAY COFFEE • WEEKLY TAKE-AWAY SPECIALS • NEW RAMP FOR EASIER ACCESS

Tucabia Markets

Enjoy our outdoor area

The Boundary Store TRADING HOURS

MON - SAT... 5:30AM - 6:30PM SUN... 7AM - 6:30PM

245 Queen St, Grafton Ph: 6643 1070

23 Collett St, Tucabia Enquiries phone 6644 8076 or 0428 543 055 www.squattersrest.com

July Racing Carnival Heading

The Clarence River Jockey Club (CRJC) held its inaugural Grafton Cup in 1910 over a distance of 10 furlongs (2012 metres). The prize money of £150, while relatively modest, was enough to attract visitors from as far as Sydney, Queensland, and Bega. The race was won by Casino-owned Gosine in a time of two minutes 10 seconds, at odds of 8/1.

The Cup quickly established itself as a major race in the next few years, to offer £500 prize money and attract more than 6,000 spectators by 1913. It became known

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The economic boom of the 1920s quickly revived Grafton’s racing scene, with the Cup returning to its pre-war glory. Meanwhile, on-course bookmakers were faced with the increasing challenge of competing with the newly introduced totaliser betting machines.

The Great Depression of the 1930s hit Grafton Cup prize money hard, halved in 1931 from £1,000 to £500. Radio broadcasting of horse racing was introduced, prompting fears more and more people would stay at home rather than attend race meets such as the Grafton Cup. Broadcasting later turned out to be vital to promoting the Cup and the July carnival.

After running successive years since its inauguration in 1910, the Grafton Cup and the rest of the carnival was cancelled for the first time in 1942, with the onslaught of World War II. The Cup also succumbed to the war in 1943, 44, and 45.

The Grafton Cup returned with great fanfare and support in 1946, attracting more than 6,000 punters and 106 makers to the course, with total carnival prize money of £2,470. Horse racing returned to a period of stability for the CRJC into the 1940s and 50s.

The increasing affluence of Australians in the 1950s led to an increasing number of people taking to the racecourse for the Grafton Cup. In 1951 around 10,000 people were at track for the Cup, increasing to around 12,000 by 1956. In 1957, record attendance was estimated to exceed the total population of Grafton, the influx of visitors stretching the town’s facilities to breaking point. Visitors found themselves bunking in camp stretchers; jockeys trainers and stable-hands sleeping in barns behind hotels and private residences.

Cup day attendance slumped in the following few years to around 3,500 in the early ’60s.

On the evening of 17 June, 1970 fire gutted

JOSH MCMAHON

ORY as the Melbourne Cup of the north coast, almost instantly making a name as one of the leading non-metro races. The following year attendance over the two days was recorded at 13,000.

One month later, in August 1914, the Great War broke out in Europe. Despite the war, the July Race Carnival continued successfully over the next few years, while other CRJC races throughout the year suffered financially. Associated social events were also held in Grafton.

The return of troops in 1919 brought with it the influenza virus, which wreaked havoc on the Sydney population, with 2,400 deaths in just a few months. The virus was also rampant in Lismore and Glen Innes. Fearing an influx of visitors to the Clarence would bring with it the deadly flu, the 1919 July Race Carnival was postponed to September. Attendance and turnover in September was well down, however, with 1919 turning out to be a bad one financially for the CRJC.

the members stand, just one month before Cup day. The 1970 carnival went ahead with a temporary stand constructed.

A new stand was built by the CRJC for $162,000, including a borrowed $100,000. It was officially opened at the 1972 carnival.

Attendance on Cup day once again grew through the late 60s, to reach 14,000 by the mid-70s. Prize money for the Grafton Cup jumped from $15,000 to reach $20,000 in 1978. This was attributed partly to the impact of the TAB, giving greater status to the July Race Carnival by operating the feature races. TAB subsidies also made a great impact to CRJC’s finances. The Grafton Cup also received a sudden surge in interest from radio broadcasters. Commercial sponsorship was introduced to the carnival in the 1960s, growing through the 70s.

The traditional Grafton Cup and Ramornie Handicap half-day holidays survived the 1980s despite protest action by a significant number of stores that chose to ignore the holiday and stay open.

By the 1980s, the concerns about the impact of radio of the 1930s had changed drastically, to see broadcasting as vital to the survival of races such as the Grafton Cup. So when the local station decided to pull horse racing from its schedule, the CRJC reacted with much concern. Still, the station refused to reinstate the racing broadcast. It wasn’t until the Dougherty family bought out the local radio station in 1985 that the Grafton races once again hit the airwaves.

The introduction of Sky Channel in the 1980s boosted the July Race Carnival, broadcasting the races to television screens in TAB agencies and hotels around the nation, increasing betting turnover and subsequent revenue for the CRJC. Consequently, however, Sky Channel led to a drastic reduction in the number of on-course bookmakers.

The Grafton Cup retained its position as country NSW’s richest horse race throughout the 1990s, growing to $165,000 in 1999. It also continued to attract top-quality horses.

From conception to consumption: only the best will do PROUD SPONSOR OF THE JULY RACING CARNIVAL YOU WOULDN’T WANT TO BE ANYWHERE ELSE...

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For tender tasty meat

11 Mackay St, South Grafton

Ph: 6642 7973 SCENE

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Ever Dreamed Of Owning A Racehorse?

July Racing Carnival

ONE THING WE KNOW IS THAT ANYONE THAT HAS EVER OWNED A THOROUGHBRED WILL TELL YOU WATCHING THEM RACE IS ONE OF THE BIGGEST THRILLS YOU WILL EVER EXPERIENCE. WHILST THERE AREN’T ANY GUARANTEES IN RACING, BEING AN ACTIVE PART OF THE THOROUGHBRED RACING SCENE IS SURPRISINGLY EASY AND WITH DIFFERENT FORMS OF OWNERSHIP IT CATERS TO EVERY BUDGET.

Ph (02) 6604 9111 freight@blanchard.com.au LONG DISTANCE AND LOCAL TRANSPORT Family Owned and Operated on the North Coast for over 60 years.

POLE TRANSPORT SPECIALISTS

e t a t s E l ea R s ’ m McKim 1951 Since

GENERAL FREIGHT CARRIERS SERVICING THE CLARENCE VALLEY & NORTHERN RIVERS AREA

www.blanchard.com.au WE DISTRIBUTE AND STOCK PRODUCTS FROM THE FOLLOWING MANUFACTURERS: Austral Masonry | Austral bricks Bristile Roofing | Claypave Monier Roof Tiles | National Masonry Adbri Masonry | PGH Bricks & Pavers

Since 1951

98 Fitzroy Street, Grafton p: 02 6642 1811 mail@mckimms.com.au

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Ph (02) 6604 9111 bricksales@blanchard.com.au

Product Types: Clay Bricks & Pavers Masonry Pavers | Retaining Wall Blocks Concrete Blocks Clay & Concrete Roof Tiles

DISPLAY CENTRE CONVENIENTLY LOCATED AT 373 FRY STREET, GRAFTON

July Racing Carnival

You can own a thoroughbred as an individual, in a partnership or with a group of people in a syndicate (friends/family/workmates/ sporting team mates). Or you can lease a horse which has no initial outlay involved.

Making an investment that suits your budget and meets your expectations is important, so here is some helpful advice to get you started on the right path.

TYPES OF OWNERSHIPS INCLUDE SOLE OWNERSHIP: Being a sole owner means you reap all the rewards, but also carry all the costs. You have total control over the key decisions and will generally deal one on one with your trainer.

JOINT OWNERSHIP/ PARTNERSHIPS: Partnerships allow you to share in the excitement of horse ownership with work colleagues or friends and split the costs. Up to 20 people can jointly race a horse. Most trainers will have availability in horses, especially after a yearling sale, and they would welcome you to join in with many of their regular owners.

SYNDICATES: If ownership sounds exciting but you’d rather reduce your cost outlay, then syndication may be the answer for you.

Syndication will give you a lesser percentage share in a horse and the selection of the horse, trainer, jockey, etc can be left up to the professionals.

Syndicators are licensed with ASIC. Being an owner in any form earns you the right to appear in the winner’s circle after your horse wins so you’re in winning photos with the Jockey, Trainer and Horse. The chance to meet up and celebrate after a win is a magical feeling, as anyone that has experienced will vouch for.

Most buyers, agents, or trainers tend to buy from the annual yearling sales. A yearling is a one-year-old and is not yet educated or ridden. Yearling Sales are where you’ll have your greatest chance to source that next racetrack star as all the good judges of horseflesh go about looking and comparing and sourcing the yearlings they want to invest in.

This can be an exciting time for you to get involved and start the experience of owning a racehorse.

Magic Millions hold a number of Yearling Sales annually at the Gold Coast including the Gold Coast Yearling Sale in January, the March Yearling Sale, and the National Yearling Sale in June. All horses in these Sales are eligible to be paid up for the $11.34 million Magic Millions race series including the Gold Coast Magic Millions’ $10 million race day held each January!

So once you’ve made a few decisions about what type of ownership suits you, all you need to do is get involved, sit back and as the saying goes “enjoy the ride”.

Images: Magic Millions

VISIT THE SOUTHSIDE FOR THE FRESHEST PRODUCE...

DIRECT FROM THE FARMER TO YOU!

PROUDLY SUPPLYING LOCAL PRODUCE TO THE CRJC AND OUR COMMUNITY! 63 SKINNER ST, SOUTH GRAFTON

ORDER ONLINE TODAY AT

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6642 2660 SCENE

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MAGIC MILLIONS

A carniva l to rememb er Looking back at January’s Jeep Magic Millions Carnival, Sales & Raceday on the Gold Coast…

While the thoroughbred horse and auction sales are the cornerstone of Magic Millions’ business, the Jeep Magic Millions Carnival, Sales and Raceday is about much more.

This January saw ten days of exciting events, sales and racing action, including a new event, the Pacific Fair Magic Millions Polo, featuring the patron of Magic Millions Racing Women, Zara Phillips MBE, international racing expert Francesca Cumani, as well as leading international polo players from Australia, the USA and Argentina.

The carnival also saw the second running of the $10 million Jeep Magic Millions Raceday at the Gold Coast Turf Club, with the feature $2 million 2YO Classic this year won by star filly, Houtzen, trained by Gold Coast local Toby Edmonds.

In an industry that has its foundations built on dreams, the Magic Millions has unquestionably become a must-attend event for thoroughbred enthusiasts at every level.

Images: Magic Millions

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McGuigan BMW race day

It was excitement aplenty when a couple of girls from the Independent were invited by McGuigan BMW in Port Macquarie for their annual race day, held on what was arguably the hottest Saturday for racing February 11, 2017.

The next day, Grafton recorded its highest recorded temperature of 45.8.

It was hot as hell, but plied with sensational McGuigan wines, a great day was had by all.

(above) Shaun Ferguson from McGuigan BMW, with Clarence Valley Independent’s Sales Manager Fran Dowsett and Photo/journalist Lynne Mowbray.

(Below) L-R Shaun Ferguson and Shane McGuigan (Right) Lynne with a winning trifecta

BACK TO BACK RACING The 2017 Carlton Draught Coffs Harbour Gold Cup is almost here, so why not back up from the Grafton carnival and come down to Coffs for one of the largest social and sporting events on the regional calendar.

Attracting a crowd in excess of 6500 race goers, it’s all about being seen and seeing at the Coffs Harbour Gold Cup. There are lots of great ways to enjoy the day: from corporate hospitality in many of our exclusive sites, including our all new lawn party area, to joining the crowd on the front lawn, enjoying great racing, Park Beach Plaza’s Fashions on the Field and lots more.

Make sure you dress to impress and throw your hat or fascinator into the ring by participating in Fashions on the Field.

There are all the facilities on course to make your day, including food outlets, bars, TAB, bookies and more. For more information visit us at www.coffsracingclub.com.au or call 6652 1488.

Maclean Services Club

While you’re in town, head down to Maclean for lunch and enjoy the magnificent river views from the Maclean Services Club - 36-38 River St, Maclean

CARLTON DRAUGHT COFFS HARBOUR

GOLD CUP THURSDAY, 3RD AUGUST 2017, FROM 11AM

GOLD CUP PACKAGES: THERE ARE A GREAT RANGE OF HOSPITALITY PACKAGES TO CHOOSE FROM SO EVERYONE CAN CELEBRATE WINTER RACING IN STYLE AT THE COFFS CUP.

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT coffsracingclub.com.au P.O. Box 482, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450, Australia Tel: 02 6652 1488 Fax: 02 6651 5390 Email: events@coffsracingclub.com.au Web: www.coffsracingclub.com.au ABN 93 065 545 815

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Heading July Racing Carnival - FASHION

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Explore what’s in store in the Clarence Valley

AS UNIQUE AS YOU

Looking for unique custom made jewellery? My passion is to create beautiful handcrafted jew ellery pieces that are as unique as you are, right here in our Yam ba workshop. We specialise in dia mond engagement rings, weddi ng bands and jewellery for all occasio ns and are more than happy to spend the time with you, finding a des ign that suits your style - that one of a kind piece you’ve been looking for. Call in and take a look at the beautiful range of jewellery we hav e on show.

Brendan Watkins Jewelle rs, 3/25 Coldstream St, Yamba 02 6646 3027.

Brendan

PURE INDULGENCE Indulge in the ultimate experience of beautiful hair. Here at Pure Hair our goal is to create stunning styles and colours, pampering your hair and transforming your look. My team specialise in complex hair cuts, colours and styling techniques, including Balayage, and can also provide deluxe eyebrow shaping, and Techno Tans – everything you need to look and feel sensational on race day. We also have in stock the limited edition purple GHD Hair Straightener. For professional, personalised service make an appointment today and let us indulge you.

Pure Hair, Shop 17, Yamba Shopping Fair, Treelands Dr, Yamba – 02 6646 9694 Karen xoxo

IT’S A ZIG ZAG MOMENT

be said about a There’s something to feel special – and you new outfit – it makes l feel in an outfit from that’s just how you wil use we want you to Zig Zag Boutique. Beca stocked our store with feel special, we have g Pong, Goondiwindi Pin brands such as Foil, ny more. Our range Cotton, Matisse plus ma Cadelle bags, jewelof accessories include l hats and we cater lery, scarves and casua n and children. me n, for all ages of wome the men as well, There’s something for hoodies. Whether with Yamba tees and looking for someyou’re off to the races, l outfit we are sure to sua thing formal or a ca king for. have what you are loo p 6/8 Yamba St, Sho , ue utiq Bo Zig Zag 9.

Yamba – 02 6646 250 Jaci xx

TO LIVE... TO LOVE...

TO LOOK GOOD Located in the heart of Yamba, Totalook Clothing stocks all your racing needs including dresses, shoes, fascinators, jewellery and jackets, all at very affordable prices.

We have a beautiful range of styles, from casual wear to more formal outfits with new stock arriving weekly. There is also a great range of winter stock in store and we welcome lay-buys.

We are open seven days a week, making it even easier to shop for your perfect outfit. We offer styles, sizes, and colours to suit all ages, so come in and let us help you create a winning combination.

We look forward to helping you to live... to love and to look good.

Totalook Clothing, 17a Coldstream St, Yamba – 02 6646 1771.

Nikki xx

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July Racing Carnival - fashion

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TA’CHELE AUSTRALIS DRESS

Hit List

BRENDAN WATKINS JEWELLERS EARRINGS

7

1

SWEET SISTERS BOUTIQUE DRESS

MISS SISS CLOTHING EARRINGS

2

GALLAGHER & CO, MENS HAT

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SWEET SISTERS BOUTIQUE DRESS

TOTALOOK CLOTHING DRESS

4

CARNEY’S SHOES BOOTS

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TA’CHELE AUSTRALIS FASCINATOR

STOCKISTS • Miss Siss Clothing, Grafton - 0428 139 569 • Gallagher & Co, 1/19 Yamba St, Yamba • Totalook Clothing, Yamba - 6646 1771 • Carney’s Shoes, Maclean - 6645 2334 • Brendan Watkins Jewellers, Yamba - 6646 3027 • Sweet Sisters Boutique, South Grafton - 0412 246 809 • Ta’Chele Australis, 213 River St, Maclean SCENE June 2017 | 23

July Racing Carnival - fashion

e n e Sc

Hit List

CARNEY’S SHOES FLATS MISS SISS CLOTHING WATCH

15 16

BRENDAN WATKINS JEWELLERS NECKLACE

HEART OF SPACE EARRINGS

10 13

TA’CHELE AUSTRALIS DRESS

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TA’CHELE AUSTRALIS FASCINATOR

14

GALLAGHER & CO MENS PANTS

11

GALLAGHER & CO MENS JACKET AND MEN SHIRT

STOCKISTS • Brendan Watkins Jewellers, Yamba - 6646 3027 • Gallagher & Co, 1/19 Yamba St, Yamba • Miss Siss Clothing, Grafton - 0428 139 569 • Carney’s Shoes, Maclean - 6645 2334 • Heart of Space, Maclean - 6645 3796 • Ta’Chele Australis, 213 River St, Maclean • Totalook Clothing, Yamba - 6646 1771.

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18 TOTALOOK CLOTHING DRESS

July Racing Carnival -Heading fashion

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Explore what’s in store in the Clarence Valley

UNDER COVER

Feeling sexy is not exclusiv e to the rich and famous. You too can feel sexy in beautiful lingerie and sha pewear from The Hope Chest. Let your body move in soft silks, sheer lace or gorgeo us cotton in sets or separates. Whether you’re looking for something fun and flirtatiou s, some weekday essentials or a bod y shaper, we can help you with your fittin g so you stay comfortable all day. The right undergarments are perfec t for accentuating your race day outfit. Drop in and have a browse. We hav e a huge range in all sizes, including mastec tomy bras, to choose from.

The Hope Chest, 59 Prince St, Grafton – 02 6642 7309.

Carmell xo

RACE DAY READY

a unique event The July racing carnival is er places where and there are not many oth ll, lacy, strucsma , Big you get to wear a hat. you have as g lon as tter tural, it doesn’t ma outfit together something that pulls your opportunity to and who doesn’t love the frock up! have selected At Southside Pharmacy we erent age groups a range of styles to suit diff e matching purses and tastes. We even hav to complete your look. your glam on So giddy up ladies and get look forward to at Southside Pharmacy. We f at the Grafton seeing you strutting your stuf uthside.phar@so am Cup! Tag us on Instagr ions. fash r you see to macy we’d love 4, p Sho cy, rma Pha Southside - 02 6642 3788.

94 Bent St, South Grafton Ainslie xo

GREAT LOOKS TIMELESS BEAUTY Pelactiv is a skin care range that guarantees to bring your skin to its healthiest level and is stocked by Timeless Touch. We provide a variety of skin rejuvenation treatments using the Pelactiv range and also specialise in a range of beauty therapies including facials, manicures, pedicures, body treatments, massage, make up, nails and more. Let us make you, your most beautiful self. Call in and see us today.

Take advantage of our Race Day special full make up with acrylic nails, only $100. Book now.

Timeless Touch Beauty, Nails & Day Spa, 113 Pound St, Grafton – 0422 202 911.

Bonnie & Kiralee xx

At Sweet Sisters Boutique we offer some great labels to choose from including Foil, NU and Humidity. Wool, Angora and Mohair Blends along with silk and cottons are the fabrics for this season. With beautiful styles, make up, hats and accessories available you will be the most stylishly dressed women this winter. Here at Sweet Sisters we are all about great looks and old fashioned personal service.

Sweet Sisters Boutique, Shop 11, 15 Skinner St, South Grafton – 0432 581 604.

Kim and Raylee x

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July Racing Carnival - fashion

GRAFTON SHOPPINGWORLD

Fashions on the Field

South Grafton Cup Day – Sunday July 9 JACQUI’S SHOE BOUTIQUE Lady of the Carnival Prize will be awarded to the overall winner: What are the judges looking for?

• Overall elegant statement, style and originality, racing elegance from top-to-toe.

• Accessories to complement each other and overall outfit, eg: shoes, handbag, jewellery, hosiery, etc.

• Hat/headwear is essential.

• Impeccable grooming and deportment.

• Suitability of outfit for the

Winter Grafton July Racing Carnival.

• The winner will represent the CRJC and Grafton Shoppingworld as the ‘Face of the Carnival’ in 2018, this includes exclusive invitations to events, functions, photo shoots, advertising and publicity.

JACQUI’S SHOE BOUTIQUE Millinery Award Prize will be awarded to overall winner: What are the judges looking for?

• Headwear to make the overall statement and still complement the outfit.

• Style and design of the millinery, eg: originality, concept of the design theme and wearability.

• Focus on overall, elegant look with attention to detail.

• Hat or headwear with a winter influence is essential.

Grafton Cup Day – Thursday July 13 RED HOT HAIR Best Dressed Lady Prizes awarded to overall winner + contemporary winner: What are the judges looking for?

• Overall elegant statement, style and originality; racing elegance from top-to-toe.

• Accessories to complement each other & overall outfit,

eg. Shoes, handbag, jewellery, hosiery, etc.

• Hat/headwear is essential.

• Impeccable grooming and deportment.

• Suitability of outfit for the Winter Grafton July Racing Carnival.

• Contemporary Winner; • Fashion with an edge – a ‘Stand-alone’ look!

• Being on ‘trend’, displaying this season’s fashion statements.

• Clever use of accessory co-ordination.

LOWES Best Dressed Gent Prizes awarded to winner + runner up: What are the judges looking for?

• Clean, well-cut suit with well polished shoes.

• Hat not essential.

• Overall look should be focused on ‘race day’ fashion rather than a business look.

• It’s all about the accessories, eg: binoculars, umbrella, hat, race book, etc.

• Suitability of outfit for the Winter Grafton July Racing Carnival.

TELSTRA Best Dressed Couple Prize will be awarded to the Overall Winning Couple: What are the judges looking for?

• Couple that are on ‘trend’, with style and originality.

• Outfits must be complementary in style and colour, displaying the latest winter fashion statements.

• Clever use of accessories.

• Impeccable grooming and deportment and attention to details.

• Suitability of outfit for the Winter Grafton July Racing Carnival.

Maclean Bowling Club Family Day – Sunday July 16

Target Best Dressed Little Lady – 7 to 12 years (Category open to Girls aged between 7 to 12 years).

What are the judges looking for?

• Overall look, style and originality, a well coordinated child’s outfit.

• Clever use of accessory coordination, eg: hat or headwear, bag, shoes etc.

TARGET ‘Kids Fashions on the Field’ Entrant Criteria *ALL ENTRANTS IN OUR ‘KIDS FASHIONS ON THE FIELD’ receive a prize for entering!

TARGET Best Dressed Little Gent: Prizes will be awarded to the Winner & Runner Up in each category below:

TARGET Miss Teen (13-17years): Prizes will be awarded to the Winner and Runner-up.

Category open to Girls between 13 and 17 years.

What are the judges looking for?

• Appropriate teen fashion – a ‘stand-alone’ look!

• Being on ‘trend’, displaying this season’s youth fashion statement.

• Clever use of accessory coordination, eg: hat or headwear, bag, shoes etc.

Target Best Dressed Little Gent – 1 to 6 years (Category open to Boys aged between 1 to 6 years).

TARGET Best Dressed Little Lady: Prizes will be awarded to the Winner & Runner Up in each category below: Target Best Dressed Little Lady – 1 to 6 years (Category open to Girls aged between 1 to 6 years).

Target Best Dressed Little Gent – 7 to 12 years (Category open to Boys aged between 7 to 12 years).

What are the judges looking for?

• Overall look, style and originality, a well coordinated child’s outfit.

• Clever use of accessory coordination, eg: hat or headwear, bag, shoes etc.

Images: CRJC

GRAFTON SHOPPINGWORLD

Over

$10wor,th0o0f 0

prizes!

FASHIONS ON THE FIELD 2017 GRAFTON CUP CARNIVAL 6-16th July | 6-16th July

- Enter to Win -

Simply enter any Grafton Shoppingworld Fashions on the Field event for your chance to WIN one of 3 weekend getaways thanks to Angourie Resort & Blue Dolphin.

Valued at over $1,500!

FOR DETAILS AND ENTRY CRITERIA GO TO

GRAFTONSHOPPINGWORLD.COM.AU

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July Racing Carnival - fashion

Fashion and fun at the races

LYNNE MOWBRAY

Win a Weekend Getaway One to be WON each Race Day thanks to Angourie Resort & Blue Dolphin Resort!

All Grafton Shoppingworld Fashions on the Field entrants, each cup day, will go in the draw to WIN a Weekend Getaway, simply enter our South Grafton Cup, Grafton Cup or Maclean Cup events for your chance to WIN!

Full terms and conditions for entrants entering the Grafton Shoppingworld ‘Fashions on the Field’ events can be found at both www.graftonshoppingworld.com.au and www.crjc.com.au

The Grafton Shoppingworld ‘Fashions on the Field’ events on Grafton Cup Day will commence from approximately 1:45pm (please check times closer to event dates) and entrants are asked to be at the stage 15 minutes prior to the start of the event. *PLEASE NOTE: PLEASE CHECK RACE DAY GUIDES, GRAFTON SHOPPINGWORLD AND CRCJ WEBSITES PLUS FACEBOOK FOR TIMES AND UPDATES ON THE DAY OF EACH EVENT.

Images: CRJC

T

here is nothing like a day at the races to bring out our inner fashion flare as we try and coordinate our finest glad rags with matching accessories and makeup.

Give yourself plenty of time to get it all organised and don’t leave it until the last minute; you don’t need to stress yourself out. This is meant to be a fun day.

Sometimes it’s a good idea to get together with some of your closest friends prior to race day and play dress ups. Getting that second opinion will give you peace of mind and could help to avoid a wardrobe malfunction on the day.

The July Racing Carnival is a winter carnival, so always keep that in mind before choosing your outfit.

Save the cocktail dress and sequin attire for the nightclub. A stylish dress or suit appropriate to the season is usually the go with accessories to match. Felt hats or berets, gloves, closed in shoes or boots with stockings, are usually appropriate especially if you are intending to enter the ‘Fashions on the Field’ event.

If you aren’t quite sure what exactly is appropriate, there are plenty of sites you can Google to find out what’s appropriate for a winter race event.

One thing that can really put a dampener on the day is choosing the wrong footwear. Don’t wear new shoes – always break them in first to avoid blisters before your day even starts.

Sensible court shoes or flats are great when you are going to be on your feet for most of the day. Choose a style with thick heals to avoid getting the stilettos stuck in the turf.

It’s always wise to take a pack with a few emergency essentials with you for any running repairs needed during the day; bandaids – for blisters, ‘party feet’ inserts to cushion sore feet, lipstick for touch ups and safety pins and bobby pins for any clothing or hair/hat malfunctions.

As much as we think that fashion style is all about ‘us’, this cannot be further from the truth.

It’s exciting to see more and more gentlemen

of all ages, starting to pay attention to detail with their race outfits.

There is nothing nicer, than to see a man decked out in a stylish suit, shirt and tie with all the accessory trimmings. Braces, clean shoes, cufflinks, hat and right down to the rose in the button hole to match his partners outfit and last but not least a nice smelling cologne or aftershave.

If they don’t already realise how much a lady admires a well dressed man – they’ll soon catch on!

The July Racing Carnival is a chance for friends and work colleagues to get together and celebrate not just horse racing, but celebrating great times with great friends.

Race days are always full of laughter but if you’re going to drink, just remember to pace yourself and have a glass of water between each glass of champers.

All the effort you put into looking your best for the day can turn ugly at the end of the day if you don’t take care.

Each year I look forward to catching up with old friends and sharing a drink with them and getting a tip or two from a serious punter or horse owner. There’s nothing quite like the vivid colours of the jockeys’ silks and the sun shining on the silky coats of the magnificent horses as they parade around the mounting yard.

Punters quickly head to the nearest bookmaker or TAB to place a last minute bet, as the horses head onto the track.

The adrenalin starts to kick in as the horses line up at the gate.

‘They’re racing’.

As the horses gallop towards the finish line the volume of the crowd increases as they yell out encouragement to their favourite horse.

As they cross the finish line there are screams of delight from excited winners, hopeful sighs from place getters and mixed emotions as punters discuss how they were so close to backing the winning horse.

Whether you’re a punter or not – there’s always plenty to do and see at the races.

Images: CRJC

WHAT ’SAT SOUTH ONSERVICES? tickets on sale now Saturday 8th July Calcutta Draw Calcutta- only $2 each

Saturday 2nd September

On now until 7.00pm Friday 28th July

CROONERS OF VEGAS 1st Prize

$2,500 cash 2nd Prize

$1,500 cash 3rd Prize

$1,000 cash

- a tribute show

Swipe your membership card and receive 1 FREE entry and 1 entry to validate with a $5 spend in the club for your chance to win LOADS OF CASH Drawn Saturday 29th July at 7.30pm

Performed by Fabian Maurer

Exceptional 5 Star Show | International performist

Friday 8th December

Friday 20th October

HYPNOTIST WAYNE DONNELLY

Tickets $30 BOOK NOW THE BEST HEN’S NIGHT IDEA

Weekly what’s on MONDAY

Three $30 Vouchers drawn at 6.00pm BINGO from 6.00pm

TUESDAY

Fishing Club Raffle from 5.30pm -Drawn 6.00pm Cash Cow 6.15pm, 6.30pm, 6.46pm Win up to $10,000 - Bonus Draw at 7.00pm Trivia from 6.30pm (Oppy Entertainment)

WEDNESDAY

Mid Week Meat Draw from 5.00pm - Drawn 6.30pm Three $30 Vouchers drawn at 6.00pm Poker from 6.00pm BINGO from 6.30pm

THURSDAY

BINGO from 11.00am R.S.L. Sub Branch Raffle from 5.00pm - Drawn 6.30pm Cash Cow 6.15pm, 6.30pm, 6.46pm Win up to $10,000 - Bonus Draw at 7.00pm

FRIDAY

Major Club Raffles from 5.00pm - Drawn 6.30pm Three $30 Vouchers drawn at 6.00pm FREE Entertainment from 7.30pm - See club for details Friday Money madness Draw at 8.30pm

Restaurant

OPEN 7 DAYS

SATURDAY

TAB Promo - Nibbles/Bar Specials 12noon to 5.00pm Meat Raffle from 5.30pm - Drawn 6.30pm FREE Entertainment from 7.30pm - See club for details Monthly Bonus Draw - See club for details

SUNDAY

Meat Raffle from 5.30pm - Drawn 6.30pm Cash Cow 6.15pm, 6.30pm, 6.46pm Win up to $10,000 - Bonus Draw at 7.00pm Free Members Voucher Draw from 6.45pm

Get on down to your club

For lunch or dinner

Courtesy Bus Available | Function Room | Auditorium 2 Wharf St, South Grafton | 6642 1422 | www.sgex.com.au 28 |

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©CVI

SOUTH GRAFTON EX-SERVICEMEN’S CLUB

FOOD

̊̑

TEA ON THE TERRACE

NAECO BLUE

CAFE CLARENCE

CUISINE: Light Lunches, Sweet treats, High teas

CUISINE: Fresh local seafood

CUISINE: Modern & delicious

AMBIENCE: Relaxed, Casual

AMBIENCE: Fast, friendly take away service

AMBIENCE: Relaxing - River views

HOURS: Monday to Saturday from 8:30am

HOURS: Monday to Thursday 10am - 7pm;

HOURS: Open daily 8.30am - 2.30pm &

EXTRA: wheelchair friendly, Indoor and

Friday10am - 8pm & Saturday 10am - 7pm

Tues to Sat nights 6.00pm - 8.00pm for dinner

Outdoor Seating, Dog friendly

EXTRA: Salads, rolls, wraps, sushi, curried prawns

EXTRA: Accommodation

ADDRESS: Shop 2/18 River Street Maclean

ADDRESS: 105 Bent St, South Grafton

ADDRESS: 2 Coldstream St, Ulmarra

PHONE: 6645 3033

PHONE: 6643 5534

PHONE: 6644 5305

WEBSITE: N/A

WEBSITE: www.naecoblueseafoods.com.au

WEBSITE: www.ulmarrahotel.com.au

FACEBOOK: Tea on the Terrace

FACEBOOK: Naeco Blue Seafoods

FACEBOOK: Ulmarrahotel

Tea on the Terrace

Cafe Clarence AT ULMARRA HOTEL

CAFE CULTURE

ROCKY MOUTH BISTRO (THE RIVER CLUB)

CLOCKTOWER HOTEL

S

ituated on the banks of the mighty Clarence River, opened in 1981, with River rooms that can hold 180 people, Maclean Services Club is the ideal place to hold your next function. Catering for all your needs with wheelchair access, full gaming facilities, family friendly atmosphere with great food, fantastic service and exceptional river views.

A

CUISINE: Modern Australian AMBIENCE: Relaxed and Casual HOURS: Lunch: Mon-Sat 12pm -3pm, Sun 12pm -2pm Dinner: Tuesday –Saturday 5.30pm – 8pm EXTRA: Can cater for any functions

CUISINE:

ADDRESS:

Maclean Services Club, 36-38 River Street, Maclean

ADDRESS:

93 Prince Street, Grafton

PHONE:

6645 2946 (Club), 6645 2556 (Bistro))

PHONE:

6643 4144

WEBSITE:

www.mlcsc.com.au

WEBSITE:

www.clocktowerhotel.com.au

FACEBOOK: Maclean Services Club

The River Club

fresh mix of homely pub style meals and Restaurant style dining in a casual atmosphere! Using local fresh ingredients and catering for many different dietary requirements. We even have healthy dining out options. Fresh local fish of the day serves on Beetroot sweet potato salad and topped homemade relish. Desserts are made in house by our chefs.

Homely pub style meals and Restaurant style dining

AMBIENCE: Relaxed Casual Family Restaurant HOURS:

Monday to Saturday 10.00am to 9.00pm Coffee & Cakes Lunch 11.30am to 2.30pm, Dinner 5.30pm to 9.00pm

FACEBOOK: Clocktower Restaurant

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food

Persian-Style Lamb Shoulder This Middle Eastern inspired marinade is quick and easy to prepare and can be used across a variety of other lamb cuts too PREPARATION: 15 minutes COOKING TIME: 2 hours 30 minutes SERVES: 6

CHAR-GRILLED FOREQUARTER CHOPS WITH ANCHOVY BUTTER Quick and easy to prepare, lamb forequarter chops are perfect for creating a quick and easy meal mid - week after work PREPARATION: 15 minutes COOKING TIME: 40 minutes SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS: 4 lamb forequarter chops (800g), fat trimmed 500g chat potatoes 150g butter, at room temperature 1/2 tsp mild curry powder 4 anchovy fillets, drained, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tsp Dijon mustard 1 1/2 tbsp finely chopped parsley Juice and zest of 1/2 lemon 1 radicchio, cut into wedges 2 zucchini, sliced lengthways METHOD: 1. Preheat oven to 200°C (180° fan-forced). Line a large baking tray with baking paper. Cook potatoes in a large saucepan of salted boiling water for 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender. Drain and cool slightly.

2. Meanwhile, place butter, curry powder, anchovies, one garlic clove, mustard, parsley, lemon juice and zest into a small food processor. Season and process

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until well combined. Spoon the butter mixture along the center of a piece of foil to form a log then roll up and twist ends to secure. Place in the fridge for 20 minutes or until firm.

3. Place potatoes on prepared baking tray and lightly crush with a fork. In a small bowl combine the remaining garlic and oil, season and drizzle over the potatoes. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake in the oven for 20 to 30 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

4. While potatoes are cooking, heat a lightly oiled char-grill or barbecue over mediumhigh heat. Season lamb and cook for 4 to 5 minutes each side, or until cooked to your liking. Set aside to rest.

5. In the same char-grill pan or barbecue cook broccolini, radicchio and zucchini, in batches, for 3 to 4 minutes or until charred and tender.

6. Top lamb with rounds of butter and serve with potatoes (sprinkled with extra parsley) and the char-grilled vegetables.

COOKING TIPS • If you’d like to try a different cut of lamb, replace the forequarter chops with chump chops or loin chops.

• Make sure the pan is hot before you add the lamb, as a hot pan is essential for ensuring caramalisation. Once the lamb hits the pan, drop the temperature back to medium.

INGREDIENTS 1.4 kg lamb shoulder, bone in 3 garlic cloves, thinly sliced 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp pomegranate molasses 2 tbsp lemon thyme leaves 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tbsp coriander seeds, toasted, lightly crushed 2 large red onions, cut into wedges 1 tbsp honey 1/2 cup vegetable stock 1 large cauliflower head, cut into florets 600g Kent pumpkin, sliced into wedges 1 tbsp ground cumin 100g baby spinach or rocket leaves Lemon zest pomegranate seeds mint sprigs Greek yoghurt, to serve METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (180° fan-forced). Line two large baking trays with baking paper.

Recipes courtesy: We Love Our Lamb

2. Make small incisions all over the lamb and press garlic into these holes. In a small bowl combine half the oil, pomegranate molasses, lemon thyme, turmeric, and coriander. Season with salt.

3. Place onions in the center of a heavy-based roasting dish and sit the lamb on top. Pour marinade over the lamb, drizzle with honey and pour stock around the base.

4. Cook lamb uncovered for 30 minutes. Cover with foil and cook for a further 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Remove from oven and rest for 10 minutes.

5. In a large bowl, add the remaining oil, cauliflower, pumpkin and cumin. Season and toss to coat. Spread vegetables onto prepared trays and cook for 25 to 30 minutes in the oven with the lamb, or until golden and tender.

6. Serve lamb with onions, roast vegetables and baby spinach.

Keep the pan juices to pour over the lamb just before serving. Sprinkle with lemon zest, pomegranate seeds, mint sprigs and serve with yoghurt.

COOKING TIPS • Don’t forget to let your lamb rest before serving. A good rule of thumb is 1 minute per 100g.

• If you can’t find a lamb shoulder, try shanks or ribs for an equally delicious result.

food

LAMB MAPO TOFU Lamb mince with Sichuan pepper is perfect for those who can handle the heat PREPARATION: 15 minutes COOKING TIME: 20 minutes SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS 400g lamb mince 2 tsp Sichuan peppercorns 1 tsp sesame oil 2 garlic cloves, crushed 3cm piece ginger, finely grated 2 tbsp Chinese rice wine vinegar (shaoxing) 1 tbsp chilli bean paste or sambal oelek 1 cup vegetable stock 1 tbsp salt-reduced soy sauce 1 tsp caster sugar 300g firm tofu, cut into 3cm cubes 150g snow peas, thinly sliced 125g baby corn, halved diagonally 1 bunch gai lan (Chinese broccoli), cut into 3cm lengths 180g udon noodles 2 green onions, thinly sliced, to serve

METHOD 1. In a small frypan, dry fry the Sichuan peppercorns over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes or until fragrant. Crush lightly in a mortar and pestle.

2. Heat the oil in a wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat and cook mince for 3 to 4 minutes or until browned. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 1 minute. Add rice wine vinegar and chilli paste and cook for 1 minute. Add stock, bring to boil then add soy sauce and sugar.

3. Reduce heat, gently add tofu and stir to coat. Simmer for 7 to 8 minutes, or until sauce reduces, adding snowpeas, corn and gai lan for the final 2 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, prepare noodles according to the packet instructions. Drain.

5. Divide noodles between the bowls and top with mince.

Sprinkle with Sichuan peppercorns and green onions to serve.

COOKING TIPS • Cook your mince in two batches to avoid over-crowding the pan and stewing. • Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavours. Try substituting the chilli bean paste or sambal oelek with hoisin sauce, sriracha or sweet soy, to create a whole new dish.

Chinese-Style BBQ Lamb Ribs The perfect cut for sharing with friends and family, these ribs are great when entertaining at get - togethers PREPARATION: 15 minutes (+30 minutes marinating) COOKING TIME: 25 minutes SERVES: 4 INGREDIENTS 800g lamb ribs 1 tbsp vegetable oil 1/2 cup hoisin sauce 1/4 cup salt-reduced soy sauce 3 tbsp maple syrup 2 garlic cloves, crushed 4cm piece ginger, finely grated 1 tsp Chinese 5 spice powder Sliced red chilli green onions sesame seeds Asian greens for garnish Jasmine rice, to serve METHOD 1. In a medium bowl add the oil, hoisin, soy sauce, maple syrup, garlic, ginger and five spice powder. Season and stir to combine. Place the lamb ribs in a large snap lock bag or

glass container, add the marinade and rub to coat. Marinate at room temperature for 30 minutes.

2. Preheat a barbecue or char-grill pan to medium heat. Drain ribs whilst reserving the marinade.

Cook until browned and charred on all sides, turning regularly to prevent burning, for 15 to 20 minutes or until cooked through.

Set aside and cover with foil to rest for 5 minutes.

3. Heat the reserved marinade and 1/3 cup (80ml) water in a small saucepan over medium-low heat for 4 to 5 minutes until slightly thickened and heated through.

4. Drizzle the marinade over the ribs and sprinkle with chilli, green onions and sesame seeds. Serve with Asian greens and jasmine rice on the side.

COOKING TIPS • Try turning the ribs upside down before cutting – this will make it easier to see where to cut between the bones • If you’re using a gas grill, only turn the burners to half and place the ribs on the unheated side. This will allow the ribs to cook more evenly, making them less likely to burn.

STORE OF THE YEAR! THE BEST QUALITY FRUIT & VEG IN THE CLARENCE VALLEY!

ARE YOU FINDING IT HARD TO GET TO THE STORE? WE CAN DELIVER RIGHT TO YOUR DOOR! Experience prize winning customer service at its best

DELIVER

IES

4 River Street, Maclean 6645 2002 | WE PACK. WE CARRY. WE CARE.

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HEALTH

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

Available on Wednesdays at Fresh Dental Care, Grafton • No Referral Needed • Interest Free Payment Plans • Early Treatment • Self Ligating Braces • Invisible Braces & Invisalign • Cosmetic Braces • Member of the Australian Society of Orthodontists

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

32 |

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June 2017

Hypnobirthing for an empowered birth

Everywhere we turn, we are encouraged to plan for our futures, to invest in our financial well-being.

If our health is our wealth then perhaps we need to apply the same strategies by investing in our hearing health?

Investments inherently involve an element of risk, therefore in seeking hearing solutions it is very important to reduce any risk.

Sadly there are many issues surrounding the purchase of hearing aids often involving commission based ‘sales’ incentives that result in you being supplied solutions that are unnecessary or more expensive than your needs dictate.

Celtic Coastal Hearing Services is a local family owned and operated practice which offers patients ‘100% transparency’. There is no conflict between our honest healthcare advice and ‘sales pitching’ as we never offer sales commissions, are not owned or affiliated with any hearing aid manufacturers and practice to a code of ethics that places your wellbeing first and foremost. “I have known most of my patients and their families for many years and offer them the same level of respect, honesty and integrity as I would to my own parents�.

At Celtic Coastal Hearing we understand the importance of making an informed decision in your own time. We offer options such as hearing aid trials where you can just ‘give it a whirl’ and see how it all works‌it’s ok if the answer is ‘no thanks’.

As a local hearing provider we feel privileged to offer hearing care to the people of the Clarence Valley are community focused to ensure the provision of excellent hearing care offered with a big heart and a wealth of experience. So come and invest some time with Celtic Coastal Hearing Services by ringing (02) 5617 6653.

Birthing is one of the most exciting and important events you will experience in life.

Learning and practising hypnobirthing will prepare you, your partner and baby for a positive birth experience.

Our aim is to empower women to birth their baby naturally and calmly no matter what the situation or setting. The skills learned and practised are life skills incorporating self-hypnosis.

Our course will provide you with knowledge and tools to feel confident and empowered to make informed choices about your birthing preferences.

The tools used to calmly birth your baby are self-hypnosis techniques; relaxation and breathing; visualisation for preparing your mindset; and building your knowledge to confidently birth your baby without fear.

The classes consist of private or group sessions.

Private are one-on-one and can be delivered in a time frame to suit the couple. Group sessions go over 2 full days on consecutive weekends. A free information session is now included in antenatal classes at local hospitals across the Clarence Valley and surrounding areas. Your Private Health Fund may refund part of your hypnobirthing costs.

Vouchers for friends and relatives to give as gifts for full or part payment of a hypnobirthing course are available and make a very welcomed gift to parents.

Book your Hypnobirthing Journey today with a certified Hypnobirthing Australia practitioner and midwife, at Clarence Valley Hypnobirthing.

Phone or SMS Heather at 0414 410 295 OR Email: heathercreated@gmail.com for further information or to book a class.

Hearing care as individual as you are!

Deafness is a common problem for any age. If you experience GLIĂ€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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$350 Discount

PREPARE YOURSELF, * REE F G HEARIN & K C E H C TRIAL

YOUR PARTNER AND BABY FOR A POSITIVE BIRTH EXPERIENCE

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is difficult, try to remember to keep your hands away from your face.

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6. Get some sleep There are numerous studies that have shown that getting enough sleep keeps our bodies and minds FREE INITIAL healthier. Sleep deprivation or poor quality sleep is CONSULTATION purported to lower immune function, which may No referral necessary mean you are more likely to catch a cold.

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inter is here and with it comes the cold and flu season. According to the Centres for Disease and Prevention most adults will experience two to three colds during this period, resulting in a runny nose, sore throat, cough, headaches and that general feeling of malaise.

The viruses that cause colds are spread through the air or by personal contact and whilst there is no known cure for the common cold there are some things that you can do to help reduce the risk of getting a cold in the first place.

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Hey Smokey,

FEATURE

where’re ya headed mate?

In 2006, Ben Allmon walked from Pottsville on the NSW north coast to Sydney. His objective was to emulate the blues musicians among the millions of African Americans who migrated from the Deep South of the USA to the country’s northern regions; particularly to Chicago during the 1930s and 40s.

Allmon’s preparation for the trek was virtually non-existent: the 27-year-old musician left Pottsville without a map – “I’ll keep the ocean on my left.” In his backpack were a sleeping bag, a lantern, a telescopic fishing rod and tackle box, three garbage bags (for shelter or a raincoat), a near useless medical kit and some clothes. It began to rain ... and it continued that way for much of his journey. And he was carrying his guitar, too, with which he planned to entertain people along the way in a bid to promote his freshly recorded album.

On his journey he met people – ordinary people – who changed his outlook on life and shaped the person he has become. His journey was a triumph of will over adversity.

Geoff Helisma chatted with Allmon, after being moved by both his writing and his adventures.

Geoff Helisma: You set out on your journey from Pottsville with virtually nothing to sustain you financially and very little to protect you from the elements; literally handicapped by a severe case of naivety, which you describe in your press material as “a heroic miscalculation”.

In hindsight, how do you explain that?

Ben Allmond: Part of it was wanting to create, in an authentic way, the thing that inspired me to do it in the first place: the Delta bluesmen – Charlie Patton, Robert Johnson walked around the south. They lived a very much hand-to-mouth existence.

Part of it was the romance: would it be possible to do it in this day and age?

Part of it was a personality trait: I don’t tend to think things through particularly well, which is frustrating for the people I live with or who are around me. I was supposed to have another guy with me, but he pulled out at the last minute. I’d already told everybody I was doing this.

I thought, ‘I can’t back out.’

It was combination of factors: mostly, though, it was my inherent sense of adventure.

GH: The basic premise of your book was to promote your record; can you explain how you imagined a tour walking along the coast, most of which is sparsely inhabited, would advance your ability to sell your record?

BA: It comes back to naivety.

I knew it would take a fair while to get to Sydney. I’d hoped the slow pace would offer as many media opportunities as possible.

I had it in my mind, [that it would be] a bit like Forrest Gump where he runs backwards and forwards across America accumulating people. [I’d imagined] people flocking to me [at places like Byron Bay] with their bongos and their didgeridoos and we’d all walk down the beach and show that music was not just something that can be packaged and sold back to people.

All of this was hopelessly naive.

In effect, what happened, I appeared like some weird homeless guy at the bottom of the busking ladder who couldn’t afford a proper guitar case

into which people could throw money.

GH: How did sales of that record go, anyway?

BA: Dreadful. During the trip they were traded for food or given out for promotional purposes to the radio stations that were kind enough to have me.

By the time I got to Sydney I’d realised I wasn’t who I thought I was, a musician wasn’t really what I was ... I was a writer. So it didn’t make a lot of sense after I’d finish to keep on pushing the album, so the sales went nowhere; I’ve got about 200 CDs propping up some cleaning equipment in the garage.

GH: Your ‘pride’ was a stumbling block that coloured your judgement when it came to making decisions regarding your ‘audiences’ and where you might find them. How did your experiences recalibrate your inner thoughts in that regard; when it came to how your behaviour changed as a result of your journey?

BA: The change started in [the Clarence Valley] during a car trip (sometimes after I’d had to back-track, I’d let myself off the walking, so to speak). But those were some of the best encounters. It exposed my hubris and arrogance in my attitude towards who I was playing for. I was used to being judged by my appearance; and yet without any sense of irony I judged the people I was playing for. It was Simon, a teacher [from Brooms Head], who showed me the importance of treating everybody with the same respect that you would afford a record executive, if you like, who had come to listen to your stuff. That same respect should be afforded to a few housewives in Yamba [for example] doing their shopping. I should give them the same performance that you would give anybody. I reached that realisation in that car trip.

GH: You were confronted with several enlightening encounters during your journey, such as the trust placed in you by Simon the teacher from Brooms Head and the generosity of Sue in the fruit shop at Crescent Head; were they life-changing moments for you and how, if they were?

BA: Sue in Crescent Head saved the tour and gave be back something I’d lost at that stage – and that was hope and belief in myself. A lot of moments that change your life; you only realise them in hindsight. With Sue, I knew right at that moment; I could sort of feel a change. Another change happened later on when I met Richard at Catherine Hill Bay. Those are the sorts of conversations you have when either a great truth about yourself is revealed, or you just feel your life turning on a fulcrum. I often think the most important changes are those that come in hindsight but, luckily, sometimes you have the sense and wit to recognise them as they are happening.

GH: Have you endeavoured to contact any of the people you encountered as you revisit those places on your promotional tour?

BA: I met Sue ten years later – [the fruit shop] is now a hipster cafe, but it was the same Sue. We ended up having lunch for a couple of hours and catching up; we hadn’t spoken since that day. It was almost like we were old mates. It was a very special moment and I gave her a copy of the book of course.

GH: In general terms, where do you think you would be in your life now if you hadn’t made the journey?

BA: I think I would have continued to be a fairly judgemental person [and] continued to be a fairly arrogant person, trying to bang the musical drum, so to speak, without realising that music for me was always a vehicle to tell stories. I am a storyteller and a writer. But I think the best thing that came out of it was appreciation of the people around me; it’s the characters that make it a good adventure and a good story; it’s not me, I’m just a vehicle that showcases them. It taught me humility and to appreciate the very different definitions of what a successful life is; whether it’s a fruit shop owner or a garbo in Tea Gardens, a teacher in Grafton.

Fame and fortune are very narrow definitions of success – that was what I thought I wanted ... but it wasn’t.

SCENE

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BOOK EXTRACT

Footing it through the Clarence Valley

“UNTIL NOW, I’D WONDERED WHETHER I’D KEEP WALKING. NOW, I WONDERED IF I’D WANT TO STOP.”

38 |

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Notable footprints DAY 11 ...The quality of the light had a spooky, purplish-golden, smoky cast to it. All around me, the world seemed to thrum with an energy that was lovely because it was so fleeting, as though the earth was giving a mighty, silent shout before it surrendered to the dark.

On the sand, a mob of kangaroos was gathered. Kangaroos on the beach somehow don’t look right. Too big. Too furry. Beyond them, the foam of a spent wave glowed delicate pink, and behind that stretched the vast, simple geometry of the sea.

Above us was the majesty of Red Cliff. It rose out of the earth to hang above the ocean like a scarlet mirage, as if someone has caught the sunset in rock like a creature trapped in amber, preserved there and glowing with its own luminescence.

It was humbling to think that this spectacle had happened every sunset for millions of years. Millions. I had happened along at the right time on a cloudless evening. It will go on doing it long after I am dead. My tour – and I – seemed supremely insignificant, dwarfed by the age and size of this vagabond continent.

All too quickly it was over, the colour draining out of the cliff face like blood from a wound, until all that remained was dull ochre swiftly overcome by shadow.

Lightning playing on the horizon as the waves sacrificed themselves on the beach. It was far out to sea, and I could not hear any thunder. Above, the stars were sprayed across the darkening sky like droplets of foam from some wave that broke eons ago. I smiled and lay down, hearing the surf whisper over the sand, remembering the raucous night before. For the first time I felt the shackles of my old life - my normal life - give a little.

Until now, I’d wondered whether I’d keep walking.

Now, I wondered if I’d want to stop.

DAY 13 Somnolent is a good way of describing Brooms Head. At half past nine on a Monday morning the liveliest thing in town was an erection I was sporting for no particular reason. The two unfortunate women who ran the local store were treated to a whole lotta me, whether they wanted it or not.

The store was like so many other small town establishments along the coast; the only store. Newsagent, grocer, petrol station, fishmonger, video shop, post office, butcher, baker and toyshop all underneath one roof. Always with an old guy sitting out front rolling cigarettes and wearing an undershirt (even in summer) who looks at you as though you just crawled out of a pond. There is nothing like the gimlet gaze of some old local to really drive home your status as an outsider.

The storeowners themselves are usually tremendous folk who will do almost anything to make you feel welcome, and Brooms Head was no exception.

I bought a pie, went outside and sat down at a picnic table to eat it. Fielded a few suspicious looks from townsfolk, but I was getting used to that.

Once you let your hair grow beyond a certain point you have to take such regard in your stride, especially when you throw in the guitar, the heavy stubble, the weird packstool and the flares.

Not to mention the unnerving geometry inside my pants. Come to think of it, I’m amazed I wasn’t run out of town.

----By the time I reached the Sandon River it was just on low tide; even so, it was too deep to ford at the mouth. I wasn’t overly dismayed, for I had faced several such instances already where a solution had presented itself, like the footbridge in Pottsville.

That optimism took a blow, however, when I was informed there was no bridge upriver; indeed the only road south was the Pacific Highway, about thirty kilometres inland, running from Grafton to the southernmost hamlet of the Yuraygir, Red Rock.

-----

DAY 14 Whap!

The apple struck me from behind, exploding into a shower of green and white meteorites raining wetly down around me. “…ya fuckin loser…” came the cry as the car sped past me on its way to Grafton, followed by young male laughter. I stopped walking in shock that rapidly morphed into mounting anger.

There had been no mention of idiots throwing things from cars in the honeyed tales of the ramblers I had read. Had Charlie Patton, father of the Delta Blues, been subjected to it? Of course he had, I concluded after a moment’s reflection, and far worse, given the place and times in which he lived. Maybe the apple was a rite of passage, a sign I was venturing across some mystical barrier from mere vagrant to bona fide vagabond.

The Test of Fruit.

Despite my rationalising, it was hard to maintain my good cheer as I picked small pieces of Granny Smith from my hat and shirt, hearing again that jeering cry, the harsh laughter. I found myself glaring at every car that passed, daring someone to throw so much as a seedless grape.

It was in this mood that the old Datsun ambled past, puffing its way to Grafton like a tired pony. It was the kind of car you would expect a mutton-chopped teacher to drive, on his way to downtown Eccentricity. The car’s brake lights flashed.

It came to a halt, reverse lights sputtering into life, and then the driver was backing across the road towards me.

The car made that asthmatic whinnying sound older vehicles make when called upon to reverse, and I could see the silhouette of the driver checking over his shoulder as he came.

Astonished by this behaviour, I simply went on standing there as the car stopped, the door opened, and a guy with a budding set of muttonchops leaned out to greet me.

“Hello. Do you need a ride?”

“Hi. No thanks, I’m fine,” I said, as I had said in answer to the previous folks’ queries that morning.

“Where are you going?”

“Grafton.”

“Long way to Grafton on foot. Why don’t you just hop in and I’ll give you a quick lift up the road.”

“Well, that’s nice of you to offer, but –” As I spoke I was thinking of all the miles ahead, all the potential pieces of airborne fruit. I thought of this tour, which wasn’t turning out the way I’d planned at all. I’d been on the road for two weeks so far, and had yet to sell an album. Being apple-worthy was the most enthusiastic response I’d so far engendered, and this revelation left me feeling low and friendless.

He smiled.

That was how I met Simon of Brooms Head; fledgling guitarist, Datsun-owner and, unsurprisingly, a teacher.

----“So let me get this straight. You quit your job, sold your car, have no home, and now you’re walking to Sydney to promote an album nobody has heard?

Is that about it?” he said as we drove west in the late morning sunshine.

“Uh-huh.”

“Well Smokey, I take it you’re not married, or have any kids.”

I smiled. “No. I have a girlfriend, though.”

“What’s her name?”

“Di.” “Serious?”

“Yeah.”

“That’s good.”

We sat silently for a bit, looking out through the windscreen at the world coming at us. Simon’s car smelled of books, dog, and the barest hint of his aftershave. The radio murmured in a soothing undertone.

“Are you married?” I asked.

“I was. We’re divorced. We tried to make it work, but we’d just grown apart.”

“That’s too bad. Kids?”

“One,” he said, smiling. “Ralph. He’s fifteen. He’s learning guitar.”

“How long has he been playing?”

“Oh, I bought him an acoustic about two years ago. He’s really good on it.

I’m trying to get him to teach me, but I’m not very good. My desire outweighs my ability.”

“It’s the same for me with carpentry...”

Our conversation went on like this for the next ten minutes or so, exchanging slices of our lives until we’d built ourselves a pretty good conversation, and Simon’s ‘quick lift up the road’ ended up taking me into Grafton.

----We pulled into the carpark of the school where he worked. The building was unassuming in aspect and the only thing moving in the carpark was a kid trying to kill himself on his skateboard.

“I’ve got to run in and grab some stuff, Smokey,” Simon said, switching the car

book extract off. Then, before I could unbuckle myself, he said, “Do you want me to leave the keys so you can listen to the radio?”

Staggered at this show of trust in a stranger that he’d met twenty minutes ago, I was at a loss for words.

Simon didn’t strike me as a fool, and I could tell by his eyes that he was already going to leave the keys no matter what I said. I was moved by this display of faith, especially so as I tend to be regarded with some caution due to my appearance.

“Sure Simon, if you’re fine with that.”

“No problem. Change the channel if you like. Back soon.”

With that he was off, waving at a car that had just pulled in several cars down from ours. The owner of the car was clearly a friend, cheerfully beeping the horn at him.

“SO LET ME GET THIS STRAIGHT. YOU QUIT YOUR JOB, SOLD YOUR CAR, HAVE NO HOME, AND NOW YOU’RE WALKING TO SYDNEY TO PROMOTE AN ALBUM NOBODY HAS HEARD? IS THAT ABOUT IT?” I sat still for a few minutes, looking at nothing in particular. I was sitting in a stranger’s car, parked in a town I’d never been to. My guitar sat on the back seat, looking perfectly at home yet utterly abstract. A sense of unreality swamped me, and so I continued to sit there, doing nothing.

The radio murmured of stock market activity in comfortingly boring tones.

I didn’t want to change the channel.

What got me out of the car and back to reality was the need to have a smoke. It had been over an hour since my last, and my nicotine centre was starting to send urgent requests to my brain.

It felt good to stand up and stretch, aware of the stiffness in my calves, the soft burn of my tendons, the huge blisters on my feet. I suspected this was just the beginning, that by the end, these aches and pains were going to be very familiar indeed.

----The Jacaranda City rolled past my window and the silence between us was natural and without tension.

“Where would you like to get out, Smokey?” Simon asked, noticing me fidgeting in the seat. We were at the southern outskirts of town and the road we were on lead to Coffs Harbour, where Simon had some business to attend to.

“Anywhere here’s good, I suppose.”

“Feeling a bit guilty?”

“Well, yeah. I don’t want to get to Sydney and have someone say to me ‘hang on a second pal, you didn’t walk it all!’”

“Fair enough, but from what you’ve told me, the bluesmen you’re emulating didn’t necessarily walk everywhere – they rode the rails, hitch-hiked…maybe it’s about the adventure, rather than adhering strictly to something unrealistic.”

I mulled over this before nodding.

“Maybe you’re right, Simon.”

We were silent for a moment as we looked for a suitable spot to pull over, and I saw with something approaching dismay a sign for the Red Rock turnoff in 22km. Red Rock was the southernmost village of the Yuraygir wilderness – I’d missed two thirds of its vast forests and untouched beaches…and some of that by car, no less.

I tried to view Simon’s generous lift as being all part of the adventure, like he said, but deep down I knew I couldn’t afford to take another trip like this and still call it a walking tour, at least with a straight face. Simon’s voice broke into my reverie.

“Can I say something, Smokey?”

“Sure.”

“It seems you were surprised by my show of faith in you back in Grafton, in the carpark. I assume that looking like Jim Morrison crossed with Charles Manson means you labour under people’s surface judgements of you, and you’ve grown used to being viewed…parsimoniously?”

“It’s such a shame most people aren’t like you, Simon, able to see past appearances,” I said, unaware I had just walked into a trap.

“But from everything you’ve told me about your tour so far, you’ve been doing precisely that yourself.”

“Come again?” I said, but in the pause before his response I quickly scanned our conversation for indicators of supercilious behaviour – I couldn’t see any. “Well, right from the first day – you deemed the fishermen as too scruffy an audience, or too slow-witted, based upon their appearance. Byron was too touristy and full of Idols and local louts. Did you play in Brooms Head?”

“No,” I said through lips suddenly numb.

“But you got a pie and sat on the Main Street. I would have thought it a prime time to get the guitar out and test your theory. Why didn’t you?”

“I guess I thought a couple of locals wasn’t worth the effort,” I said, now unable to feel my lips at all now.

“Old Tom sitting there in his undershirt you mean? He looks pretty ornery but in his day he was quite the pianist – he was probably checking out the guitar and wondering if you were going to play.”

What I’d taken for a xenophobic glare had actually been honest interest, but because of Tom’s appearance I’d misinterpreted the look and written him off without further thought. Most of my face was now

numb, and that which wasn’t felt hot, flushed; I was appalled at my hubris, my arrogance, my pride.

“I think maybe you’re waiting for a perfect audience that doesn’t exist, Smokey. You know, this tour would be a success if only you had the right audience.” He shook his head. “But no-one is going to measure up to the standards you seem to have set.

And it’s surprising you’d be judgemental, given your own experience,” he said, indicating my long hair, the striped flares, the two-week-old beard.

I opened my mouth to say something, but he beat me to it.

“The reason I had no compunction at leaving you in my car with keys in the ignition is because I could tell, even from our brief chat beforehand, that under the rough exterior you are a decent man. But then, I’m a teacher – and my students’ appearances get worse with every year,” he said with a smile. “You get used to seeing…seeking…the person inside.”

I nodded, no longer trying to say anything. I looked out the window feeling terrible and liberated at the same time.

For most of my adult life I’ve tended towards the Jeff Lebowski end of the fashion spectrum, simultaneously lamenting the world’s tendency towards snap judgements, shallow superficialities, and emphasis on outward appearances, whilst in turn and with no sense of irony exhibiting and perpetrating those very same prejudices against all and sundry. Who was I to pass judgement on my audience? On anyone, come to that?

Bad as this made me feel, I was excited by the idea that, by viewing everyone as a potential audience, every moment could be utilised musically. It could accompany conversation, or replace conversation. An audience of one was just as important as fifty, and a fisherman just as good as a well-heeled ethnomusicologist. I didn’t even need an audience – I could just walk down an empty beach and play my ass off.

The world was my stage, whenever I chose to make it so.

This was as exhilarating as it was unexpected. I’d been alarmingly blinkered regarding the tour’s execution up until this point – I’d been waiting for an audience that would never appear, and bypassing a hundred audiences as I went.

I couldn’t have replied after such a revelation even if he’d wanted me to, but he didn’t, of course, because a good teacher knows when to stay silent and let the student do the rest.

----“Well, here we are,” he said as we pulled over near a wooded side road, that tone of finality in his voice that creeps in when the time for parting has come.

“Listen, Simon, I haven’t got any money to give you-” “Don’t worry about it-” “- but I do have this-” “-honestly, I couldn’t take

anything-” “-that I want you to have. It’s not much, but maybe your son will dig it.” After several moments of fruitless rummaging and rooting I came up with what I wanted; a copy of the album.

“Oh no, I couldn’t…” he began.

“Can and will. It’s the least I can do.”

Simon was having none of it.

“How much does it go for?” he asked, pulling out a wallet that looked as though it had been new around the time Mike Walsh hosted The Midday Show.

“No, no, no Simon. It’s…”

“Ten? Twenty? How much?” I had to remind myself that I was a hitchhiker. Had any hitcher ever had money thrust upon them? There he was, though, and now laboriously adding another ten upon the first two. I could see he wasn’t going to let me go without forking over money. I didn’t want our last words to each other to be some stupid argument, so I said, “Ten. And that’s final.”

He smiled.

I smiled back.

I got out, opened the back door and retrieved my stuff.

“Keep safe, Smokey.”

He drove away, and I bent down to pick up my packstool.

It had taken two weeks, but I had finally made my first sale of the tour.

“IT HAD TAKEN TWO WEEKS, BUT I HAD FINALLY MADE MY FIRST SALE OF THE TOUR.

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TRAVEL

L

CHOICE OF CONVENIENT FLIGHT TIMES Regional Express (Rex) brings a reliable air service to the Clarence Valley region, with 36 weekly flights from Grafton, including peak morning and evening services.

The flight schedule is great for those necessary day trips to Sydney, allowing you to leave Grafton at 7.30am, be in Sydney by 9am to attend a meeting or visit a specialist, then be back at home in time for dinner.

QUICK AND HASSLE-FREE TRAVEL Fly from Grafton (Yamba) directly to Sydney in 90 Minutes. Flights depart from Grafton (Yamba) airport, just a short drive from Grafton.

Airport shuttle transfers, taxis and hire cars are available for your short drive to/from Grafton. Free parking and free WIFI are also available at the newly renovated Grafton (Yamba) Airport.

RELAX AT THE REX LOUNGE IN SYDNEY You can wait in style in the Sydney Rex Lounge on your return journey. There are free WIFI and workstations, equipped with PCs, as well as phones for free local calls, or sit back and relax with complimentary snacks, tea, coffee and soft drinks which are available throughout the day, together with beer and wine after 3pm. A private meeting room can also be arranged if required.

Annual memberships are available at rex. com.au, or try it out first with our Casual Lounge Access Pass for just $33 (incl. GST) per visit.

Rex also operates to Sydney from 17 other Regional NSW destinations including Lismore, Armidale, Taree and Ballina (Byron Bay).

Fly with Rex, Australia’s regional airline, on your next trip to Sydney.

Why fly to Sydney with Rex? TAKE A BREAK IN SYDNEY WITH AIRLINES Fares from $139* one-way Grafton (Yamba) to Sydney

*One-way Saturday Rex Promo fare. A booking/services and credit card surcharge applies. Fares are subject to change. Terms & Conditions apply.

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L

travel

̌̉ Intrepid

REAL LIFE EXPERIENCES WITH

T

ravel’s a big decision. It’s not every day you fly across the world to wander the souks of Marrakech or enjoy a dreamy Angkor sunrise. But for us, it’s been our everyday for the past three decades.

Let’s just say we know what travellers really want: a balance of inclusions and free time, a mix of classic highlights and local secrets you won’t find on Google. And of course, an authentic real life experience.

Every Intrepid small group adventure has been carefully designed to make sure you have an unforgettable grassroots travel experience. Over the years, we’ve developed several trip styles and themes to cater for a diverse range of travellers. With Basix, Original and Comfort trips to choose from, you are bound to find the right style to suit you.

The world’s a big place, and it is human nature to get out there and explore it. The only thing is it’s a really big place. And there’s a plethora of different languages to learn, borders to cross and cultures to negotiate. Small group adventure travel makes these things easy and allows you to maximise your precious time off. Instead of worrying about logistics, you can focus all your energy on having the experience of a lifetime.

With more than 1,000 adventures in over 100 countries, we’re now covering more of the globe than ever before – north to south, east to west. Mountains to the lowlands, cities to the seas. So whether it’s the Arctic’s apex or Antarctica’s underside, Africa’s wilds or Europe’s elegance you seek – we’re there. There to get you off the beaten track, behind the scenes and really in the thick of the destination that’s calling you.

live in the moment

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RECEIVE $250 AIR CREDIT WHEN BOOKING YOUR TOUR WITH AN ECONOMY OR PREMIUM ECONOMY FLIGHT RECEIVE $500 AIR CREDIT WHEN BOOKING YOUR TOUR WITH A BUSINESS CLASS FLIGHT Book by 30 June, depart by 30 April 18. There is no blackout over Christmas.

For more details please visit https://www.peregrineadventures.com/air-credit

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travel

Canada –

L

adventureland

M

ay 2017 was a fabulous touring month for Northland Coach & Travel as we headed off for a 22-day Canada Alaska tour.

Twenty eager travellers, plus hostess Janelle, flew to Vancouver to meet up with our travel director, Jeannette, and driver, John. Our first activity was to travel across by ferry to Vancouver Island and township of Victoria.

Dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf, a walk through the Beacon Park, lunch at a local winery, breakfast at the very beautiful Butchart Gardens and, after two days exploring, we were back on the mainland.

Our next adventure was our 2-day ride on the Rocky Mountaineer Gold Leaf Service.

The food divine (spoilt rotten), the views incredible and the service from the staff exceptional. We spotted quite a few bears, which the train drivers slowed down to enable copious clicks from our cameras.

Our train ended in beautiful Banff. A gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain gave us a crisp, breezy and icy view of the township. (such fun!) A visit to Lake Louise and the Fairmount Resort was very interesting as the lake was frozen solid. After a quick snow fight, back on the

coach to warm us up.

From more bears, elks, mooses, wild goats and sheep and, not to forget, squirrels, we certainly had our fair share of animal spotting.

We met a retired Royal Canadian mounted policeman who wanted to take a few of our travellers into the station for questioning! Such an experience.

Travelling on the Columbia Icefield, we boarded an Ice Explorer on the massive Athabasca Glacier. These huge, cumbersome vehicles took us up high into the mountains where we ‘freezingly’ walked around. Hard ice prevented a snow fight.

In Jasper, the highlight for a lot of our group was travelling up to Medicine Lake and watching the trees gradually become more snow laden the higher we climbed. At the lake, it was frozen but oh so pretty and, with the delicate touches of the snow resting on our faces and bodies, well, it was a pinch me moment.

So pretty. This time the snow fight was fairer as the snow was so light and delicate.

Back in Vancouver, we boarded the MS Volendam (Holland America Cruiseline) for our 7-day Alaskan cruise. Again, we were so spoilt with incredible accommodation, food, service and fabulous viewing. Whilst the weather did not permit a helicopter ride and dog sled for some of us in

Junea, we did find other activities to keep us all happy. Skagway is such a pretty little township and our town tour with one of the locals highlighted the ‘good girls’ life from the old gold rush days.

In Ketchikan, it was a full house with three other cruise ships, but it didn’t seem to worry anyone. The local lumberjack show was another highlight of our time in Alaska.

On our final day in Vancouver we took a two-hour journey up to Whistler for a quick look around at the Olympic skiing resorts from a couple of winter Olympics ago.

Again, just so pretty.

Our time in Canada and Alaska went so quickly. We met some amazing locals and spoke with so many young Aussies (even some from Grafton) living the dream, working in Canada. Our group of travellers became one big family and it was so sad at the end of the tour going our separate ways.

So what’s in store next for Northland? Well, in August we will travel to the NSW opal fields, then Tasmania in September and our annual Christmas tour in December. There are plans for Western Australia, a European river cruise, Vietnam and a whole lot more in 2018.

So if travelling is your thing, give Northland a ring and we’ll help put those travel dreams into reality.

What’s on?

GRAND TASMANIA

O’REILLY’S RAINFOREST RETREAT

NSW OPAL FIELDS

21 Days - September 2017

3 Days - November 2017

10 Days - August 2017

Enjoy a 21 day tour of beautiful Tasmania. There’s something for everyone on this tour including Wilderness Railway, Gordon River Cruise, Cradle Mountain, Port Arthur & Spirit of Tasmania.

Travel in a Northland Coach IURP VWDUW WR ƓQLVK

You’ll have the opportunity to WU\ \RXU OXFN DQG ƓQG DQ RSDO on this tour. Includes Lightning Ridge, Grawin, Bourke, White Cliffs and lots more touring.

A nice little 3 day getaway in the Gold Coast Hinterland.

Time to breath the fresh crisp mountain air. Go birdwatching, enjoy a hike or just sit take it all in. Local touring included.

Sh kG ft Sh i ld G ft NSW 2460 Shop 10 10, Th The Li Link Grafton Shoppingworld, Grafton P 6643 1212 | E enquiries@northlandcoaches.com.au | www.northlandcoaches.com.au 42 |

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June 2017

FEATURE

Yamba engineering firm sets the pace GEOFF HELISMA

This is one of a number of government contracts that have underwritten the company’s success.

Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan, who was accompanied by Australian Border Force’s commander of special operations support and business engagement, Craig Sommerville, officially announced the Yamba firm’s successful tender.

“This is great news for Yamba Welding, our local community and importantly people looking for work,” Mr Hogan said.

“Government tenders such as these helps to boost small businesses, maintain jobs and build a strong local economy.

“Yamba Welding won this contract in an open-market tender process which shows our local companies are as good as any in the country.”

Yamba Welding’s proprietor, Bill Collingburn, said he was “delighted” to have won the contract, which augments previous government contracts.

“This takes it one step further, with Border Force,” he said.

“It will allow us to put on more apprentices and make sure they have a future in the industry.”

Yamba Welding’s foray into building vessels for governments was kicked into gear when Member for Cowper Luke Hartsuyker announced a $255,000 Sustainable Regions Program grant in 2005, to expand the business’s workshop.

In May this year, Yamba Welding and Engineering landed a $5.4million three-year contract to build four 12-metre and four 5-metre boats for the Australian Border Force.

Meanwhile, in 2015, at a roundtable workshop “This is a great investment of government in Coffs Harbour, Mr Hartsuyker described “boat [spending], building our capability as a border building on the Clarence River as the ‘sleeping force,” he said. giant’ of all the employment opportunities in the “We are also working with a South Australian Lower Clarence”. company ... this will allow us to work more and “It’s important that all levels of government more around harbours, marinas and remote work with such businesses to ensure they are able areas. to expand and create more jobs,” he said, com“It’s fantastic to work with a well-established and renowned Australian boat menting on boat builders, Yamba Welding and builder.”

Engineering and Harwood Marine.

Mr Hogan said: “The larger boats Mr Collingburn said that since 2005, his compawill be used for patrols in and ny has moved forward to the point where it is a around major and secondquality assured builder of rigid inflatable vessels in In June 2014, Australia – the company has spent around $1milary ports and harbours to Yamba Welding create a permanent lion dollars on research and development and & Engineering won presence to allow for quality assurance over recent years. a $2million contract to a rapid response “[In 2005], we were supposed to put on two build two barges for Ok

by Australian apprentices, we put on five; and so the employTedi Mining Limited’s Papua Border Force ment of local apprentices has continued,” he and New Guinea (PNG) mining when said. operation. needed.

“Most of our apprentices went to school togethIn October 2014, Parliamentary er, both senior and junior; they’re all locals, apart Secretary to the Minister for Defence from a senior resident – we grew from 11 to 17 Darren Chester made a visit to Yamba employees [following 2005 grant].

Welding & Engineering (YWE) last week.

Nowadays, Mr Collingburn employs 28 people, Mr Chester said he was gathering information eight of whom are apprentices; “we’ll soon be on the “capabilities of local industries to provide employing two more”. services and equipment for the defence forces”.

Border Force commander, Craig The company has also manufactured various police Sommerville, said it “is fantastic to be and marine rescue vessels. here today”.

YAMBA WELDING & ENGINEERING PTY LTD • River Boats • House boats • Sea-going boats

• Aluminium Repairs and Fabrication Specialists

BUILDING AND REPAIRING BOATS SINCE 1974

Check out the website

www.ywe.com.au

Vessels of Distinction 6646 2421 • 4 Angourie Rd,Yamba • info@ywe.com.au SCENE

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MOTORING

MG – Fun motoring since 1924

For over 90 years MG has been making cars people love to drive. Grip the wheel of an MG and you can feel generations of good times built into its DNA. Morris Garages sales manager, Cecil Kimber, set out to produce a sports car line to promote their cars.

By 1924 the MG brand, emblazoned with the iconic hexagon badge, was up and running in Oxford and growing fast.

Fast-forward to today, and MG continues to motor ahead; innovating, transforming, and inspiring.

At MG, we push bounda-

• General Mechanical Services • Logbook Servicing • Airconditioning Service • Dyno Tuning • Diesel Performance • Exhausts • Tyres • Full Hydraulic Hose Service

ries, rejuvenating this great British classic right here in Australia.

Take your pick from any of the great models in our exciting line up, with the MG3, MG6, and MG GS. MG, owned by SAIC, are offering one of the most generous warranties on the

market; with a six-year unlimited-kilometre warranty, to put your mind at ease so you can focus on the fun stuff.

Paul King, from MG Coffs Harbour, said: “We’re proud to represent the MG brand in Coffs Harbour. With fun, dynamic,

We stock parts.

LOTS of parts.

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.

SHED 1, 9 UKI STREET, YAMBA INDUSTRIAL ESTATE 44 |

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June 2017

Croppers are a licenced Motor Dealer with a consignment register allowing them to sell vehicles on consignment. All makes and models. Trade in’s welcome.

ALL MECHANICAL REPAIRS & SERVICING Rego Inspections Disc Brake Machining Tyres Log Book Servicing Gearbox Rebuilds

INSTORE BRAKE HOSE SERVICE

to book your service TODAY!

D/L No MDO39553

Flywheel Machining

NOW AVAILABLE

Call 6646 2374

and exciting models available at an accessible price point, and generous 6 year warranty, we have a lot of confidence in this historic British brand.”

For more fun motoring, book a test drive at Geoff King MG or visit www. geoffkingmg.com.au

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

Engine Rebuilds Consignment Vehicles 111 Ryan St, SOUTH GRAFTON Call 6642 3996 today for an appointment

MG6 Plus Auto

MG GS

MG3

From to † drive away‡

From to ~ drive away‡

From to ' drive away‡ Since 1924 Dealer Lic. No. 1000

Geoff King MG | 8 Tolhurst Place Coffs Harbour | 02 6659 1000 geoffkingmg.com.au †Essence model shown at $28,489 including metallic paint (RRP $499). ~ Essence X model shown at $35,784 including metallic paint (RRP $499) and black roof (RRP $295) options fitted. fCore model with “Trophy” decals shown at $14,815.03. ‡ Drive away price includes 12-months registration, CTP insurance, stamp duty and dealer delivery. # 6 year factory warranty terms and conditions at www.mgmotor.com. au/warranty. 6 year factory warranty excludes decals. Decal factory warranty is 2 years. ! 6 year roadside assistance terms and conditions at www. mgmotor.com.au/warranty. Offer ends 30/6/2017. While stocks last. Not available to fleet, govt, rental buyers, hire car and chauffeur companies or with any other offers. Offer available at authorised MG Motor Australia dealerships while stocks last. Dealership locations at www.mgmotor.com.au/dealers. MG Motor Australia reserves the right to change or extend this offer.

Leave it to...

Cleavers Mechanical Repairs

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services: Engine Reconditioning Mechanical Repairs all cars & 4WD Vehicle Safety Inspections (Pink, Blue & Gas Slips) Cylinder Head Reconditioning Brake Machining 4 Wheel Computer Wheel Alignment 24hr Accident & Breakdown Towing Log Book & EFI Servicing

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46 |

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June 2017

Specialising in 4WD & Accessories

SPECIALISING IN

• Diesel pumps & injectors • Turbo systems • Engine rebuilds • Gearbox & diff rebuilds • Log book services • Diesel performance chips • Pink slips • All commonrail

Phone 02 6643 3233

95 Ryan Street, South Grafton philmccrackin@bigpond.com

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ers & Small Engines Cars & 4WDs - Trucks & Tractors - Mow

ET

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s • Latest model diagnostic scan tool • Latest 4 wheel aligner ections • Pink, Blue, Gas & Heavy Vehicle Insp • Tyres & Mag Wheels • Mechanical Repairs • Brakes & Suspension TRADING HOURS • A/C Regassing - Fri 8am to 5pm Mon Sat 8am to 12noon

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McCrackin Diesel & 4WD Accessories

• Automotive Keys • Electronic Keys

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All mechanical repairs Servicing both petrol & diesel

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R A FT O N

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Stockists of New and Used Parts

tyres Enquiries - Ph: 6643 2333

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REIMER’S ONE STOP AUTO & TYRE SHOP 6643 5079 . PH:

BRICKWORKS LANE, STH GRAFTON

For all your Motor Vehicle Repairs

Lic. No. MVRL 7951

Vehicle Safety Check Authorised Inspection Station

Phone/Fax (02)6645 2377 Mobile 0428 453 581 4 Stanley Street Maclean NSW 2463

CS©170621

• Pink Slips • Blue Slips • Log Book Servicing • All Mechanical Repairs

motoring

The all new BMW 5 Series The new BMW 5 Series (G30) features new and enhanced engines (in a range of four and six cylinders) and dynamics, and its blend of athleticism and elegance has evolved to a new level, making an even more incisive visual statement.

The all new BMW 5 Series sedan (G30) takes its elegant interior and intuitive controls to an even higher level than the outgoing BMW 5 Series sedan (F10). In addition to more room for all occupants and a larger (530 litres) and more flexible (40:20:40-split folding rear seatback) luggage compartment, the all new BMW 5 Series (G30) also sets new benchmarks for seat comfort and workmanship.

Dakota leather with contrast stitching is fitted as standard on the 520d/530i/530d and on the 540i, this is upgraded to sumptuous Nappa leather upholstery with additional quilting and piping details. An instrument panel in Sensatec is fitted as standard to all models and it too adds to the premium ambiance of the all new BMW 5 Series (G30) interior.

In addition, drivers now have four ways of controlling vehicle functions: the optional BMW Gesture Control system, a voice control system that recognises natural language, a sensitive touchscreen and the familiar iDrive Touch Controller. In addition, the central information display has a new interface design, the first BMW to feature iDrive 6, with the menus displayed as large, individually configurable tiles.

The all new BMW 5 Series sedan (G30) has superior agility, manoeuvrability, steering precision and nimbleness thanks to the BMW EfficientLightweight intelligent lightweight engineering, its low centre of gravity and an almost perfectly

balanced axle load distribution. The increased use of aluminium in the chassis, wheels and brakes reduces unsprung masses and significantly enhances ride comfort, lowering the car’s weight by up to 100 kilograms.

The Driving Experience Control system provides access to the COMFORT, SPORT and ECO PRO driving modes. Each of these modes has its own suspension, engine and transmission set-ups to re-define the vehicle’s character. Now there is a fourth Driving Experience Control mode,

Speed Limit Assist - detects speed limits and feeds them into the Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function.

The most pioneering innovations in the all new BMW 5 Series Sedan (G30) come as part of the standard Driving Assistant Plus package. This includes a multitude of safety and comfort functions that provide highly intelligent support to the driver in everyday travel. The established systems are now complemented by new functions: The Lane Keeping Assistant with active side collision protection inter-

The all new BMW 5 Series Sedan (G30) takes its elegant interior and intuitive controls to an even higher level than the outgoing BMW 5 Series Sedan (F10). European model shown.

ADAPTIVE (available in conjunction with Dynamic Damper Control).

This automatically adapts the steering, Dynamic Damper Control and Steptronic systems to the current driving style to deliver the most optimum dynamics, comfort and efficiency.

New driver assistance systems in the BMW 5 Series Sedan include: The standard Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function - adjusts the pre-set speed to the traffic situation, based on radar and camera data.

The Speed Limit Info with Intelligent

venes when travelling at speeds between 30 and 210 km/h whenever another vehicle is coming too close to the side of the car.

The Avoidance Assistant intervenes in the car’s steering to help avoid any sudden obstacle.

The Intersection Assistant (including right-of-way warning), operating at driving speeds up to 85 km/h, issues a visual and acoustic warning if the driver overlooks a stop sign or an obligation to give way to users of another road, alerts the driver to crossing

With an unbeatable line-up of driver assistance systems, an unmatched degree of connectivity and un-paralleled levels of interior luxury and refinement the seventh generation of BMW’s most iconic four-door models cuts a sporty, elegant and stylish road presence.

traffic, and pre-tensions the brakes.

The Cross-traffic Warning now also has radar sensors monitoring the area around the car’s rear when negotiating exits with poor visibility, or when leaving a parking space perpendicular to the road.

The driver also benefits from outstanding support when parking - thanks to the standard Parking Assistant Plus, which is able to perform parallel, perpendicular and diagonal parking manoeuvres autonomously, with Surround View and 3D View showing bird’s eye-view images of the vehicle. Remote-controlled Parking is available as an option for the all new BMW 5 Series Sedan (G30).

The all new BMW 5 Series Sedan (G30) also offers best-in-class vehicle connectivity. A key feature here is the self-learning BMW Connected mobility assistant. A combination of personal assistant and real-time traffic information which facilitates everyday mobility and aids drivers in reaching their destinations relaxed and on time. Mobility-relevant information such as recommendations for optimal departure times are available remotely via iPhone or soon via the Apple Watch and can be seamlessly transferred into the car The BMW Connected app comes with the Remote 3D View* function for the all new BMW 5 Series (G30), which allows drivers to view the current area around their parked vehicle remotely and conveniently via a smartphone.

To test drive the new BMW 5 Series, call in and talk to the guys at McGuigan BMW, 140 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie.

Ph 6588 8500. DL7571 www.mcguiganbmw.com.au SCENE

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motoring

24/7 HELP P

117 Prince St, Grafton

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

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

Hoses Clutches Towbars Exhausts Mufflers Head Light Protectors Weather Shields Ironman Accessories and more!

WE WILL BEAT ANY WRITTEN QUOTE

GREAT VALUE SPARE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

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

aul Skippen moved to Yamba from southeast Queensland 14 years ago. Five years later he decided it was time to own his own business and he purchased See Breeze Motors, which has the NRMA Roadside Assistance along with an automotive service and repair workshop.

“This was the first time I was going to own a business and knowing that the NRMA brand was well respected and trusted by the wider motoring public, I was happy to purchase See Breeze Motors,” said Paul.

“It was been a lot of hard work and there are long hours involved, especially with the 24/7 NRMA roadside assist, but I really enjoy what I am doing. It is very rewarding.”

Paul employs three staff members, all qualified to ensure your car is fully repaired and back on the road in no time.

“It is really important that we keep up with all the new technologies in vehicles today, so training is a big part of our work here,” comments Paul.

See Breeze Motors • Full Servicing and Repairs all makes & models • eSafety Rego Checks inc LPG • Brake, Suspension, Cooling System, Exhaust Repairs & Servicing • Pre - Purchase Vehicle Checkovers • Batteries • Tyres • Roadside Assistance • Windscreen Chip Repairs

8 Favorite Ave, Yamba 6646 1777 NRMA Insurance Services Available at Yamba & Maclean Check out our website at www.seebreezemotors.com.au 48 |

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June 2017

See Breeze Motors offer manufacturer’s log book and general servicing, brake, exhaust and cooling system repairs and rego inspections. They are Yamba’s only licensed LPG vehicle registration inspection station.

They also stock a range of tyres and batteries for most vehicles and can undertake pre-purchase inspections on second-hand vehicles. They also offer a windscreen chip repair service.

The workshop is fully equipped with the latest in diagnostic and scanning equipment and, with the quality workmanship and competitive prices offered

by See Breeze Motors, you can be assured of the very best in car servicing and automotive repairs. They guarantee their work And what does Paul do when he’s not working around the clock? He loves nothing better than to kick back, play guitar, listen to a bit of music or read, or get rid of some energy riding motorcycles.

See Breeze Motors also operates the local NRMA Insurance branch agencies in Coldstream Street, Yamba and in the Palace Arcade in River Street Maclean. The NRMA offices cover all your membership and insurance needs; and the staff are always willing to help with all your enquiries.

See Breeze Motors, located at 8 Favorite Avenue, Yamba, is open from 8am – 5pm on Monday and 8.30am – 5pm Tuesday through to Friday.

Cars are my ‘calling’

The team at Passmore Auto Air and Electrical

An automotive electrician’s role is to repair and maintain automotive electrical systems in cars and other vehicles, but after ten years owning Passmore Auto and Electrical, Andrew Passmore knows better.

“I moved to Yamba from Wangaratta for the climate and the relaxed lifestyle.

Who was I kidding? There’s no relaxation when you run your own business,” laughs Andrew.

“I’ve worked on cars all my life, so I guess it was my calling, but I had no idea just how much work there was involved.

You have to give one hundred and ten percent.

“I call myself an auto electrician extraordinaire and air conditioning specialist, but there is so much more that we do,” he says smiling.

“We have three staff and, apart from diagnosing electrical and mechanical faults in motor vehicles, we also work on earthmoving equipment and tractors.”

Passmore Auto and Electrical also carries out automotive air conditioning repairs and installations, starter motor, and alternator repairs, UHF radio sales and installation, car audio installations, and they have a range of discount batteries and parts and accessories for sale.

“Not only do we do all this at our site, but we are also happy to go off site if we need to,” says Andrew.

“We use only the highest quality parts and all our work is guaranteed, giving our customers peace of MVRL 51740 • ARC Authorisation AU37752 • ABN: 82 603 054 459 mind that their job will • Automotive Air-Conditioning be done right the first time.”

Repairs & Installations For Andrew, the hec• Auto Electrical Repairs tic lifestyle leaves not a lot of time for his pas• Discount Battery Sales sion, which is sailing, • Starter Motor & Alternator Repairs both for pleasure and competitively.

• On-site Service “I love being on the water, so I guess you • UHF Radio Sales & Installation could say that is where • Car Audio Installations my ‘relaxation’ comes from,” he says.

• Parts & Accessories Passmore Auto and Electrical is located at 7 Ironbark Drive, Townsend or you can A/H: 0409 950 639 call them on 7 Ironbark Drive, Townsend NSW 6645 1100.

Phone: 6645 1100

THE NEW-LOOK

PUMPED-UP ISUZU D-MAX & MU-X

MU-X 4X4 LS-T AUTO

7-SEAT SUV AWAY $52,990 $ 0 DRIVE

*

D-MAX 4X4 LS-U CREW CAB UTE AWAY $44,990 DRIVE

#

GO YOUR OWN WAY IN THE 3-LITRE, MORE TORQUE, 6-SPEED ISUZU D-MAX & MU-X The new-look, pumped-up Isuzu D-MAX and MU-X are stand out performers on or off-road. With the legendary Isuzu 3-litre turbo diesel engine, a beefed up 430Nm of torque and an intuitive 6-speed transmission across the range. Coupled with a Terrain Command 4WD system and outstanding towing capacity, the D-MAX and MU-X have everything you need to pump up any adventure. GO YOUR OWN WAY! Discover the pumped-up Isuzu D-MAX & MU-X at your Isuzu UTE Dealer or isuzuute.com.au

HURRY TO COFFS COAST ISUZU UTE TODAY! 1B TOLHURST PLACE COFFS HARBOUR www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au

(02) 6648 3533

5-star ANCAP safety rating on all MU-X models and 4x4 D-MAX Crew Cab models built from November 2013 onwards and 4x2 D-MAX Crew Cab High Ride models built from November 2014 onwards. *Private & ABN holders only on 17MY vehicles. Metallic/mica/pearl paint $450 extra.

Available until 30/6/17, unless extended, varied or while stocks last. #Private & ABN holders only on 17MY vehicles. Manual transmission. Metallic/mica paint $450 extra. Available until 30/6/17, unless extended, varied or while stocks last. ^5 years/130,000km whichever occurs first, for eligible customers. Excludes trays and accessories. >The Capped Price Servicing Program (“CPS Program”) applies to Eligible Vehicles with a Warranty Start Date on or after 1/1/15 at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers only. The 5 years Capped Price Servicing covers the first 5 Scheduled Services for 16.5MY and later vehicle models for up to 5 years/50,000km (whichever occurs first). CPS Program is subject to change. For full terms & conditions and current pricing visit isuzuute.com.au/service-plus.

motoring

The All New Isuzu D-MAX has arrived

at Coffs Coast Isuzu UTE

I

suzu UTE Australia has made some hefty updates with the new models. Our ever reliable 3.0-litre four cylinder turbo-diesel has been pumped up for the Australian market. It now meets Euro5 emissions compliance and produces 130kW/430Nm – that’s 50Nm more peak torque than our previous model.

As with the previous 3.0 litre engine, the new Euro5 compliant power plant owes its existence to Isuzu’s N-Series truck range and, as before, is boosted by a variable geometry turbocharger and runs a life- of-vehicle timing chain in place of a belt.

A new Aisin six-speed automatic transmission or Isuzu’s own six-speed manual replace the old five-speeders, while more technology has been added through the range. Finally, for D-MAX the front-end has been restyled, with a new grille and bonnet complemented by new headlights (all models) and daytime running lights (all LS models).

The D-MAX range spans Single Cabs, Space Cabs and Crew Cabs and 4x2 or 4x4 drivelines, in cab-chassis and pickup formats.

Some 23 variants are now on order. Trim grades span SX, EX, LS-M, LS-U and LS-Terrain.

Pricing starts at $26,990 drive away, all the way through to $51,990 for the top of the range LS-Terrain.

To test drive the all new D-Max, call in and see the team at Coffs Coast Isuzu Ute, 1B Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour or phone (02) 6648 3533. www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au ^5 years/130,000km whichever occurs first, for eligible customers.

Excludes trays and accessories. >The Capped Price Servicing Program (CPS Program) applies to Eligible Vehicles with a Warranty Start Date on or after 1/1/15 at Participating Isuzu UTE Dealers only. The 5 years Capped Price Servicing covers the first 5 Scheduled Services for 16.5MY and later vehicle models for up to 5 years/50,000km (whichever occurs first). CPS Program is subject to change. For full terms and conditions and current pricing visit isuzuute.com.au/service-plus. *Braked towing capacity on 4x4 and 4x2 HighRide models when fitted with an optional Genuine Isuzu UTE tow bar kit.

Model Breakdown EX:

Front bucket seats, cloth trim, vinyl floor, air conditioning, tilt adjustable steering, leather- clad steering wheel, halogen headlights, black bumper and grille, 16-inch steel wheels.

SX:

(in addition to EX) power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, colour-coded bumper and mirrors, driver and front passenger cup holder, cruise control, pollen filter, 15- inch steel wheels (LowRide) or 16-inch steel wheels (High-Ride).

Towing capacity of the D-Max is rated at 3.5 tonne with a 350kg down ball weight*

LS-M:

(in addition to SX) reversing camera, Projector headlights with LED running lights, front fog lights, LED tail lights, rear step bumper, lockable tailgate, chrome grille, 16-inch alloy wheels.

LS-U:

(in addition to LS-M) climate control, carpet flooring, aluminium side steps, chrome rear step bar, shark-fin antenna, 17-inch alloy wheels.

and on (LS-U navigati ker a e four-sp above) ) six b a c (single / USB io M d F u / ace a M p udio (S tivity, A eaker a connec h touchr sp e k a inc ht-spe CD, 7.0 ab) eig playC D V D h wit ab). screen (Crew C uchX) 8.0 to (S k c a b llite incl. sate screen

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June 2017

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1485 wide, 530mm mum), 1 ep, 1105mm de 465mm l n whee e e betw arches.

5yrs 24hour roadside assistance 5yrs capped price servicing> (every 12 months or 10,000km) Call in today to check out the new look D-Max & arrange your test drive.

1B TOLHURST PLACE, COFFS HARBOUR www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au SCENE

(in addition to LS-U) leather seat trim, powered driver’s seat, keyless entry and start, roof rails, 18-inch alloy wheels.

Warranty 5yrs^ or 130,000km whichever occurs first

For more information call in and talk to Carl about the all new D-Max

HURRY TO COFFS COAST ISUZU UTE TODAY 50 |

LS-T:

PH (02) 6648 3533

motoring

Say hello to the new-look, pumped-up, 7-seat Isuzu MU-X The new-look Isuzu MU-X has arrived at Coffs Coast Isuzu UTE and it's a stand out performer on or off-road. With our legendary Isuzu 3-litre turbo diesel engine, a beefed up 430nm of torque and an intuitive 6-speed transmission, the MU-X is all you need to pump up any adventure.

The MU-X has forged a reputation for itself as a dependable and rugged SUV since its arrival in late 2013 and still claims the title for the Number 1 selling SUV on the Coffs Coast.

It now meets Euro5 emissions compliance and produces 130kW/430Nm – that’s 50Nm more peak torque than our previous model and, as before, is boosted by a variable geometry turbocharger and runs a durable steel timing chain in place of a belt. A new 6-speed automatic or manual transmission replace the previous 5-speed versions.

The front end has been restyled, with a new grille

and bonnet, complemented with Bi-LED projector headlights, which incorporate Daytime Running Lights and an auto levelling feature, as well as a new tailgate and tail lights.

Carl Bennett says Isuzu UTE Australia has listened to our customers requests and has produced a far nicer dual-tone cabin, including lots of soft-touch trim and contact points and better plastics, much more comfortable seats, plus new infotainment screens that all incorporate rear view cameras.

Every model in the MU-X range receives 7 seats standard, 6 airbags, ISOFIX anchors, Bluetooth and iPod Connectivity, 3 USB points (including 1 for middlerow occupants), 3 12V outlets and a full-size spare wheel. The MU-X line up consists of 3 levels and are available in 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, with Manual transmissions also offered in the 4x4 LS-M and LS-U models. Pricing starts at $38,990 Drive Away for the

For more information or to take a test drive, call in and talk to Carl at Coffs Coast Isuzu Ute.

4x2 MU-X LS-M, all the way through to $52,990 Drive Away for the top of the range 4x4 MU-X LS-T. To find out more about the Isuz MU-X call in and talk to Carl and the team at Coffs Coast Isuzu Ute, 1B Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour or phone (02) 6648 3533. www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au

THE DETAILS • TOWING CAPACITY IS RATED AT 3 TONNE ACROSS THE RANGE WITH A 300KG DOWNBALL WEIGHT+.

• OUTSTANDING FUEL CONSUMPTION FROM 7.9 LITRES PER 100KM COMBINED#.

• ALL ISUZU MU-X MODELS COME WITH A 5 YEAR/130,000KM^ WARRANTY (WHICH EVER OCCURS FIRST) • 5 YEARS 24 HOUR ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE • 5 YEARS CAPPED PRICE SERVICING> (EVERY 12 MONTHS OR 10,000KM)

Model Breakdown ISUZU MU-X LS-M 16 Inch Alloy Wheels, Air Conditioning, Cruise Control, Hill Descent Control, 7.0 Inch Touch Screen with Reverse Camera

ISUZU MU-X LS-U (In addition to LS-M) 18 Inch Alloy Wheels, Front Fog Lights, Side Steps, Privacy Glass, 8 Inch Touch Screen with Satellite Navigation, Climate Control with vents for all 3 rows

ISUZU MU-X LS-T (In addition to LS-U) Leather Accented Seats§, Push Button Start with Keyless Entry, Electric Driver’s Seat, Roof Rails, 10 Inch Roof Mounted Entertainment Monitor, Rear Spoiler.

HURRY TO COFFS COAST ISUZU UTE TODAY 1B TOLHURST PLACE, COFFS HARBOUR www.coffscoastisuzuute.com.au

PH (02) 6648 3533

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PUT YOURSELF

Have you ever watched the races and wondered how you would begin to be a racehorse owner?

Racehorse ownership can be accessible to all. There are certainly expensive purchases, but there is also a long list of bargain buys which have returned their owners their purchase price many times over, as well as providing immeasurable enjoyment.

For more information about racehorse ownership and how you can get involved, email: bloodstock@magicmillions.com.au or call 07 5504 1200

MAGIC MILLIONS 2018 GOLD COAST YEARLING SALE 10-16 JANUARY | MAGIC MILLIONS SALES COMPLEX | GOLD COAST

www.magicmillions.com.au