ISSUE NO.19 : AUTUMN 2023 - Coal Coast Magazine

A selection of 2022 Sales

With a combined experience of over 30 years, Laurie Johnston and Vanessa Denison-Pender have a proven track record and strong market knowledge with exceptional marketing and negotiating skills.

Contact Laurie and Vanessa for your updated market appraisal so you’re ready to take the next step of selling your home in 2023.

mcgrath.com.au

24 Mountain Rd, Austinmer

26A Beach Drive, Woonona Sold $2.88m Sold $2.8m 38 Mountain Road, Austinmer Sold $2.3m

22 Beach Dr, Woonona Sold $3.4m 5 Bean Street, Thirroul Sold $2.55m 10a Clyde Close, Thirroul

36a LHD, Austinmer

38 Panmills Drive, Bulli Sold $2.9m Sold $3.060m 5 Soudan Street, Thirroul Sold $2m

Sold $2.55m

Laurie Johnston lauriejohnston@mcgrath.com.au 0437 468 049

Vanessa Denison Pender vanessadp@mcgrath.com.au 0488 443 174

Open 7 days

Mon-Fri: 8.30am - 4pm Sat-Sun: 8am - 4.30pm

www.audleydancehall.com.au

@audleydancehallandcafe

what's inside

There is a QUIZ on page 96 and here are the answers:

1. Symbio Wildlife Park and Sea Cliff Bridge, 2. Corrimal, 3. Lindsay McDougall, 4. Kiama, 5. Port Kembla, 6. Wiz, 7. Buddhism, 8. Working Class Man, 9. 1902, 10. Dubai, Hong Kong and Malaysia, 11. Fear of dogs, 12. Horse 13. Marie Curie 14. Pacific Ocean 15. Brown 16. Coca Cola 17. Candle in the Wind (1997), 18. Greece and Australia 19. Cheetah 20. Vatican City (Fun fact. It's less than two-tenths of a square mile!)

By Elly x

We acknowledge the Dharawal People as the Traditional Custodians of the Illawarra region. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.

Hello!

We're excited to bring another jam-packed issue of local Coal Coast goodness, and this time we are shining our spotlight on beautiful Kiama and its stunning surrounds.

Can you spot the location of our cover? Minnamurra of course!

Danielle Hulls, an incredible local drone photographer, is well known for capturing moments of living on the coast and our cover gives us all the feels.

Kiama has certainly come into its own. Far from my childhood memories of the rusty rocket playground in Hindmarsh Park, it's grown to be a thriving hub of cocktail bars, delicious food, art galleries and the annual Jazz Festival. And that's your cue to check out our story on jazz musos Nick Garbett and Al Hicks on (page 64)!

Community and connection is what we love and we feel privileged to share some heartfelt stories in this issue. Jack and his team at #talk2mebro are changing the conversation around men's mental health (page 36) and Healthy Cities Illawarra have created an exciting International Women's Day event, celebrating culture and diversity through dance (page 18).

We also celebrate our incredible local history, starting on page 10 with our burek capital... Cringila! And get a peek inside the Imperial Hotel at Clifton (page 22) - perched high upon the cliff edge with spectacular views, it's been reborn from a derelict building for many decades to a go-to destination for foodies.

Happy reading! x

coalcoastmagazine.com

@coalcoastmag

coalcoastmag

Coal Coast Magazine is published four times a year and has taken the utmost care to ensure content is accurate on the date of publication. Coal Coast Magazine does not warrant or assume any legal liability or responsibility for the quality, accuracy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of any information, product or service represented within our magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without the permission of the publisher. All rights reserved.

Southerly Media Pty Ltd ABN 70 661 659 132

editor

Kate O'Mealley

editor@coalcoastmagazine.com

graphic design

Ren Howard

advertising designer

Elaine Allen

social media coordinator

Taylah Cutting

digital coordinator

Sasha Johnson

cover image

Danielle Hulls

our contributors

Dani Sherring

Emily Perkins

Cathy O’Brien

Erin Huckle

Penny Keogh

Chris Frape

Kath Gadd

Hannah Preston

Aaron Christie-David

Lauren Pomphrey

Hayley Griffiths

Helen James

Matt Castell

Jo Failes

Anthony Smith

Spencer Dungay

Tom Opie

Michael Boyle Photography

Kramer Photography

Sea People Photography

Hayley Haynes

Peter Masters

Sally Dillon

Shebin Shajan

Children of the Revolution

Tracy Leigh

Justin Huntsdale

Salty Dog Photography

Coal Coast is a term which recognises a prominent rock found beneath our area's surface, while celebrating our glittering coastline.

multicultural cringila

Cringila sits on the doorstep of the iconic Steelworks. Once referred to as ‘Steeltown’, Cringila was well known for being a European migrant housing area in the 1950s, with many households growing vegetables in their backyard gardens. Today it is an eclectic piece of suburbia, celebrated as a cultural food hub for delicious treats like Turkish burek and sweets – plus a worldclass mountain bike track.

Cringila, the Aboriginal name for pipeclay used to decorate the body before a corroboree, was a combination of two suburbs which grew as people moved to the neighbourhood to be close

to work: the Steeltown housing estate, with its collection of shacks and tents established close to the Steelworks, and Belvedere estate.

The area has a diverse cultural heritage and today, according to the 2021 census, the country of birth of people living in Cringila includes North Macedonia, Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Portugal, and Australia.

In the 1930s, houses in Cringila were typically weatherboard, with a wooden frame and iconic corrugated iron roof. A house that was the site of the Community Health Centre and then the Migrant Health Centre once homed cycles of migrant families in the 1950s, who stayed until they could afford to move.

Words Jo Failes Sources Wollongong City Libraries, Illawarra Stories, Lost Wollongong, Australian Bureau of Statistics Images From the collections of the Wollongong City Libraries and the Illawarra Historical Society.

Built in 1952, the Cringila footbridge linked Cringila Station to the Steelworks. Hundreds of workers headed across from the train station to the Steelworks – a particularly busy time at peak hour!

Given its proximity to the Steelworks, there has been a number of historical environmental movements and initiatives over the years, as awareness grew over issues such as rising pollution levels. The Cringila Community Park was developed to save and rehabilitate remnants of rainforests. And residents banded together and defeated a proposal by BHP to use the land as a coal dump.

In recent years, Cringila has undergone a revival and is filled with hidden treasures and haunts. Did you know there is a mountain bike trail set in the hills of Cringila? With close to 12kms of trails, and designed for all levels of riders, you’ll find a range of obstacles, surfaces, and gradients for cycling enthusiasts of all ages. The Cringila Hills Mountain Bike Park has stunning views of the Steelworks, the ocean and Lake Illawarra and is a great way to explore Cringila.

Another way is via a Foodie Tour with Nina Cantina, where you’ll get to sample famous local cuisine such as Lebanese pizza and Turkish burek and wander the streets to discover the sights and sounds of the community of Cringila.

I was there when…

I grew up in Cringila and remember having a huge backyard with all different types of vegetables, we shared them with our neighbours. My father worked at the BHP Steelworks, as did many of his family and friends. My son was telling me recently that he’s ridden on the mountain bike path, and it got me reminiscing about Cringila and living in a simpler time.

Tony, Wollongong

As a Cringila local, I have seen lots of things change, but also some things stay the same. My friends and I used to speculate what the mysterious half-house in Lake Avenue was used for! I love going for a walk to the sweet shop. There is a real sense of community spirit here. Esra, Cringila. ¡

beyond the blowhole

Main image Danielle Hulls Images Tom Opie

Many of us have fond memories of beach holidays in Kiama, eating hot chips and waiting in anticipation for the largest blowhole in the world to do its thing. But while its coastline is still as spectacular as ever, Kiama is shaking off its small-town sleepiness to become a popular destination for those seeking more than sun, sand and surf.

With an abundance of new culinary and cultural delights on the menu, autumn is the perfect time to rediscover the relaxed coastal community we know and love. Come on down and check out these great spots to eat, drink, stay and play (blowholes optional).

Words Lauren Pomphrey

KIAMA RETAINS ITS COASTAL TOWN CHARM OF OLD, BUT BEHIND THE BEACHES, AN ECLECTIC CULTURAL SCENE AWAITS

eat & drink

Bar Padres

Shop 6/4 Tingira Crescent

One of the latest ventures from the team at Papi’s Thirroul, Bar Padres is bringing more good time vibes to the table, this time in the form of fun fine dining. Think Modern Australian share plates, a rotating seasonal menu and plenty of cocktails and local drops to wash it all down.

Wildginger

45 Collins Street

Having captured the hearts of Huskisson locals and visitors, Wildginger is now bringing upscale Asian fusion cuisine to Kiama. And it’s not a moment too soon, with a range of rotating banquet menus and matching wines to keep things fresh and flavourful.

Diggies Kiama

Blowhole Point Road

Still keen to give the blowhole a look? Look, we’re not going to stop you. But while you’re up there, head into Diggies for coffee and brunch, or weekend sundowners with a view. It’s almost as famous as the hole itself, so book a table to ensure your spot.

The Hungry Monkey

5/32 Collins Street

The original of the Hungry Monkey's cafes, the team are well-known for their delicious burgers, next-level breakfasts and super shakes. With regular music nights and burger deals, there is something for everyone.

Miss Arda

62 Terralong Street

This award-winning restaurant and bar bring a Middle Eastern-inspired menu to Terralong Street, perfect for sharing, with cocktails in hand. Or, if holidays are getting the better of you, stroll down to sister cafe Otis Deli for hearty salads that’ll put the spring back in your step.

The Pines Pantry

26 Collins Street

Stroll along Kiama’s famous row of terraces to find this farm shop from The Pines, a family run micro-dairy. Home to one of the best toasties on the coast, you’ll come for the cheese, stay for the gelato and leave with armfuls of local foodie goodies.

Little Betty’s

1/55 Collins Street

If you ever find yourself in Kiama on a Friday night wondering where all the people are, they’re probably in Little Betty’s. Make like a local and enjoy speciality drinks, share plates and live music in this relaxed candlelit space.

shop

Bouquiniste

Shop 1, Kiama Centrepoint, 106 Terralong Street

Tucked just off the main drag in Kiama Centrepoint, local favourite Bouquiniste is an independent bookstore and licensed café by day, and wine bar by (Friday) night. Pop in for a coffee, a personalised recommendation or a glass of something cold to kick off your weekend.

The Retro Room

2/128 Terralong Street

One of those shops that has something for everyone, this retro inspired boutique ticks all the boxes of ethical quality and affordability, sourced and designed locally. Browse unique clothing, jewellery and gifts for those look-goodfeel-good vibes. And don’t miss the very groovy John Lennon inspired shirts!

The Collective Beat Handmade Gallery

11/106 Terralong Street

Sister store to The Collective Beat, the Handmade Gallery is an indoor marketplace offering 100 per cent Australian-made goods from a variety of independent artists and makers. Stop by for a browse or take something home to support a small Aussie business.

Kiama Makers and Growers Market

Fourth Saturday of every month, plus special events, Shoalhaven Street

There’s lots of great markets in Kiama, but this one is a little special with its range of handmade wares, plus plenty of local food and drink to choose from. Throw down a picnic blanket and relax with live music by the water – there’s nowhere you need to be.

stay

The Sebel Harbourside Kiama

31 Shoalhaven Street

Overlooking Kiama Harbour, a South Coast stay doesn’t get much better than this 4.5-star resort. With free parking, chic bar and bistro Yves and spacious air-conditioned rooms, The Sebel offers comfort and tranquillity in the heart of Kiama.

BIG4 Easts Beach Kiama Holiday Park

30 Ocean Street

If you’re still craving some beach time on your escape, pack up the camping gear or book a beachfront cabin at Easts Beach Holiday Park. There’s plenty of places to pitch a tent in the region, but Easts gets our pick for its proximity to a huge slice of golden sand, plus a large resortstyle pool.

Greyleigh

165-177 Long Brush Road, Jerrara

On the other end of the spectrum, Greyleigh offers 200 acres of private grounds and luxurious accommodation for a farm stay like no other. Collect fresh produce, relax in the Greyleigh Spa, or elevate your experience with a helicopter tour over the mountains and coast.

experience

Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival

10-12 March 2023, various locations

One of the South Coast’s most popular events, the Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival brings music, colour and smiles to the region’s streets, parks, cafes, bars and everywhere in-between. With a mix of ticketed and free performances, it’s impossible to miss this three-day celebration of local creativity and community.

SurfLife Music Festival

31 March – 2 April 2023, Fern Street

Gerringong

Round the bends in neighbouring Gerringong, SurfLife is a weekend-long festival of surfing, food, music and fun. Enjoy the free surf expo or just bask in the chill vibes between rolling hills and rolling waves.

Fillmores

Frequent dates, Unit 3/38-40 Manning St

Part café, part bar, part community arts space, Fillmores is a space for culture and good times. Hosting regular live music and pop-up events, grab a drink and wood-fired pizza, support local artists and boast that you saw them first at Fillmores. ¡

Or

Rosemary Kibiuki

Celebrating diversity

MEET NEW FRIENDS, BE INSPIRED AND SHARE STORIES AND FOOD AT THE ILLAWARRA WOMEN’S DAY OF DANCE + CULTURE

This year’s International Women’s Day in the Illawarra will be showcasing the wonderful diversity of local women. And the Illawarra Women’s Day of Dance + Culture, run by Healthy Cities Illawarra, on Sunday, March 5, provides the opportunity to share, connect, listen and learn.

The coordinator of the Day of Dance + Culture, Elizabeth Boachie, says days like this are important as a lot of women face barriers in engaging with the community.

"We all have barriers to connecting and being part of the general Illawarra community,” Elizabeth says. “We are focused on women who experience higher barriers, for example, the

Illawarra’s refugee migrant women and women experiencing domestic violence… bringing them together with other women in the mainstream community and providing a safe place.”

Elizabeth has worked in the area for a long time and is happy to provide opportunities for women to form connections.

“It’s not easy to meet someone from a different culture, have a conversation and engage with them – it can be so daunting when you try to do that in a public space,” she explains. “This event creates such a great opportunity for everyone to get out of their comfort zone, dance, share, and listen to inspiring stories of other local women.”

According to Elizabeth, attendees of the event can expect a big day – colourful, filled with music, and with lots of diversity and fun!

Words Emily Perkins Main image Salty Dog Photography Image Shebin Shajan

The event will kick off with a Welcome to Country and a First Nations women’s choir and dance group, organised by Local Elder, Aunty Dr Jodi Edwards.

Aunty Jodi is a Yuin woman with kinship connection to Dharawal Country. She works for the Illawarra Aboriginal Corporation and has been in the education sector for over 23 years. Involved in many Indigenous research and art projects, including practices of fish-netting, boat making and possum skin cloaking, her work has been exhibited at the Museum of Australia.

Also featuring on the day are African and Bollywood dance groups, and the Let Us Dance group. Nachle Dance School has brought Indian culture to life for adults and children in the Illawarra for 10 years. Bollywood dancing connects participants to each other and their heritage, teaches teamwork and confidence, as well as enhances creativity.

Let Us Dance is a local ladies’ dance company where older women come together for ‘fun, fitness, friendship and fulfilment’. The group travels between nursing homes, services clubs, and festivals to perform. And the African dance group is formed by family members from the Congo, plus Illawarra women from Zimbabwe and Togo.

“There’ll be some great panellists as well, sharing on the four things that made the most difference in their lives,” Elizabeth says.

Panellist, Nyan Thit Tieu, is Wollongong’s Senior Citizen of the Year and has dedicated her life to supporting migrant and refugee communities through education programs and her own, The Sister Cancer Support Group.

Also in attendance will be Rosemary Kariuki, advocate for migrant and refugee women and Australian of the Year – Local Hero 2021.

Nachle Dance School

Rosemary works as a multicultural community liaison officer for the Parramatta Police and specialises in helping with domestic violence, language barriers and financial distress.

JJs Indian Restaurant will be catering the day, Multicultural Health will be offering free women’s health checks (including pap smear and breast

cancer checks), there will be free child mining, transport support, and other support services available. So head along to Edmond Rice College on March 5 and meet people with a multitude of stories to tell.

“This event provides the best avenue for us to connect women in the Illawarra, and to see beauty in culture and community,” Elizabeth says.” ¡

The event will be held at Edmund Rice College, 112 Mount Keira Road, West Wollongong, on March 5, 12-3pm. To grab a ticket, go to Eventbrite.com.au and search Illawarra Women's Day of Dance + Culture 2023.

“This event provides the best avenue for us to connect women in the Illawarra”

clifftop icon

A 100-YEAR-OLD JEWEL, THE IMPERIAL AT CLIFTON’S NEW CHAPTER PAYS HOMAGE TO ITS ROOTS WHILE CELEBRATING A BRIGHT FUTURE

315 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Clifton, theimperialclifton.com.au

After sitting idle for almost 20 years, The Imperial at Clifton reopened its doors in 2021 as a bespoke hospitality venue encompassing a restaurant, cafe and events space. The historic pub was first built in 1884 as a watering hole for the community, which consisted mainly of miners and their families.

After 100 years of service, the picturesque pub shut up shop in the early 2000s, and sat unused, bustling with memories, until 2015, when Shellharbour Workers' Club took over the then-dilapidated venue and oversaw five years of careful and considerate refurbishments to transform The Imperial at Clifton into a sophisticated yet charming reincarnation of days gone by – a space which pays homage to the historic roots of the iconic building and also the town of Clifton, itself. There are heritage features everywhere you look – climb the original timber staircase, take a seat on the reinstated front terrace or cosy up to one of five original fireplaces. Ninety per cent of the original tiles

from the old bar still line the walls. Many of the original window frames and walls have been restored, while joists have been reused as decor to line the front of the bar and door frames. And the result is impressive. The Imperial at Clifton celebrates its past while welcoming a big and beautiful future.

“The historic restoration of such an iconic venue was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that we simply couldn’t pass up,” says Debbie Cosmos, CEO of Shellharbour Workers’ Club Ltd. “We set out to breathe new life into the venue while retaining the historic features of the building and telling the story of the mining town of Clifton. At the essence, the reopening was about returning a dilapidated venue back to the community.”

Not only does the building have historical significance for the town of Clifton and the wider Illawarra community, but its clifftop location, which overlooks the ocean, has made for a truly spectacular site to welcome diners from

Words Dani Sherring Images Michael Boyle Photography, Kramer Photography

near and far. The star of the venue is the main dining space on the ground floor, from which guests can see nothing but infinite sea through the glass wall. But the venue also boasts a grassy courtyard area that catches the ocean breeze, a huge events space upstairs, and the front bar, where pictures of the original pub and the transformation that ensued line the walls as well as nods to former licensees. This wasn’t simply about making over an iconic venue – the story of the venue and the township of Clifton were also at the forefront.

“From the get-go, the team remained committed to giving the abandoned building a new life as an on-trend food and beverage venue, while

retaining the historical features of the building,” says Debbie. “Acknowledging the significance of the building was incredibly important and we set out to restore it to its former glory.”

And to accompany such a stunning overhaul, this clifftop space needed a food offering to match its design. The handcrafted menu at The Imperial at Clifton is creative and imaginative – ‘classics’ with a point of difference. Think prawn rolls with daikon, pickled chilli and celery; chicken schnitzel with spring onion mash or salt and pepperberry whitebait. Breakfast is also on offer as are teatime treats and coffee served from the on-site cafe. Or if a picnic nearby is what you’re after, gourmet hampers filled with antipasto, fresh seafood or sweet indulgences can be purchased and delivered to nearby coastal spots by The Imperial Express – the venue’s bus.

“Our kitchen team changes the menu seasonally to ensure that we incorporate the freshest of produce and showcase the best of what’s on offer all while keeping sustainability as our primary goal,” says Michael Heslin, General Manager of The Imperial at Clifton. “Our seafood tower, which is available on weekends is a real favourite, our mussels are popular and so are our burgers – they’ve got quite the following! But ‘The GG’ one of our delicious dessert items has quickly become one of our signatures – it looks amazing and tastes even better!”

The kitchen team led by head chef Michael Munro, who has 18 years’ experience working in both fine and casual dining, are also committed to using local produce – mussels are sourced from Jervis Bay, the bread is from local sourdough legends Pane Paradiso and the mushrooms come from Mittagong.

“Acknowledging the significance of the building was incredibly important and we set out to restore it to its former glory”

What's behind the bar also pays respect to the area with a few local brews on tap. It’s clear that The Imperial at Clifton team place heavy focus on showcasing the best of what the Illawarra has to offer, from produce to alcohol to the unmatched vista. “It was extremely important to us to show the Illawarra off to locals and tourists alike,” says Michael.

But vodka and bourbon aren’t the only spirits said to inhabit the walls of the venue. There are also reports that Mrs Miller, the wife of previous licensee George Miller, who passed in 1914 wanders the halls, keeping an eye on the tidiness of her old home. “We’re yet to see her though,” says Michael. “It seems we’re doing a good job of keeping the place spick and span!”

A good job indeed – since it’s reopening, The Imperial at Clifton has been flooded with guests keen to admire the makeover while sipping on a spritz, picking at burrata and local marinated olives, and sharing stories of times spent in this grand old dame in days gone by.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved thus far,” says Michael. “The overwhelming response is so positive. The community has been so supportive of our efforts. We love hearing the nostalgic stories mixed in with the appreciation of how we’ve honoured the building’s heritage. We can’t wait to see more memories being made in these walls.”¡

RESTORE AND REPAIR YOUR SKIN THIS AUTUMN

AUTUMN IS HERE AND WE’RE SLOWLY CHANGING BACK INTO ‘RECLUSE MODE’. TIME TO PACK AWAY OUR SWIMWEAR AND TOWELS AND CREEP BACK INTO OUR JUMPERS AND TRACKIES, READY FOR THE COOLER DAYS AHEAD. AND THIS IS THE PERFECT TIME TO TREAT SKIN CONDITIONS, SUCH AS PIGMENTATION, THAT REQUIRE US TO SPEND MINIMAL TIME IN THE SUN!

Pigmentation can range from freckles, age and sunspots to melasma. Though the uneven skin tones and dark spots appear only on the surface of the skin, they are rooted deep within the dermis layer of the skin. Usually caused by sun damage, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy), trauma, genetics, and medication, these factors stimulate the melanocyte cells deep within the dermis of our skin. With the cells triggered, they produce more melanin than required, resulting into the different ranges of pigmentation.

Some of our laser and peel treatments require you to stay out of the sun as much as possible. This is perfect during cooler months because we prefer to stay inside where it is warm and cosy with our feet up, lying on the couch, with a hot beverage and uggies, while watching our latest favourite

To help achieve radiant, glowing skin this summer, visit Skin Revival www.skinrevival.com.au and @skinrevival.clinic. Open Monday-Saturday. Shop 4-6, 44 Hopetoun St, Woonona.

streaming series. The skin becomes extremely sensitive after each treatment and sun exposure may damage the sensitive skin and reverse the effects of the treated area.

As always, the best cure is prevention. Or at least, reducing the risk as much as possible. The risk factor we can control the most is how much exposure our skin receives from the sun. Wearing appropriate clothing, sheltering under shade, and applying topical sunscreens that contain zinc and titanium, all help to block a lot of UV rays.

Another great method of reducing the risk of pigmentation is to build a strong barrier within your skin. Find a skincare routine with essential active ingredients, such as Vitamin A and C, that neutralise the free radicals formed by exposure to UV rays and pollution, protecting your skin from oxidative stresses.

distilling the essence

PULL UP A BAR STOOL AT BELLAMBI’S NEW BOUTIQUE MICRO-DISTILLERY, WOLF & WOMAN

Words Penny Keogh @oursliceofpie Images Sea People Photography

6 Bellambi Lane, Bellambi, wolfandwomandistillery.com.au

As a couple, April and Mark Greenfeld’s opposite natures might have deterred others in the same position from starting a business together. But their shared gutsy determination as creative auteurs unites them, for which the northern Illawarra are now very grateful.

The husband-and-wife team opened their aptly named boutique distillery and bar, Wolf & Woman, in Bellambi late last year, and the community are applauding.

Growing up in Kiama and working in the family construction business would foster April’s entrepreneurial spirit. She’d go on to run her own laser clinic and, on meeting Mark, who contracted as a crane driver to her parents’ business, April saw in him the same passion for calling something your own.

Raising three children and navigating plenty of home renovations, which inspired their move to Woonona, the pair built their lives together at a pace that found balance in their differences.

“When Mark’s up at 6am and ready to get on with things, I’ll find my groove a 10pm and night,” April laughs. “You can get a lot done when the days are long.”

In between the hard slog and long days, Mark still found time to tend to his interest in whisky and gin distilling – Mark was a home brewer for 10 years or so before the two decided they were up for yet another challenge. And so the process of establishing a distillery which produced artisanal spirits began.

“Our youngest was seven,” says April. “It was scary for us to leave our full-time jobs, but we’d talked about it for years. We were ready to do this together.”

Enthusiasts of whiskey and gin distilling know that years is what you need to perfect the artform. It’s a complicated process of boiling grains and other ingredients in copper pots, capturing and refining the evaporated liquids in ways and at temperatures that create unique tastes and textures.

It’s rare, as Mark explains, that a brewer may stumble quickly on the perfect combination of ingredients. For Wolf & Woman Distillery, a name born of their personalities and partnership, it was the local coal coast area that inspired their unique blend.

“Sea lettuce is popular in Chinese culture for its antioxidants and cucumber-like taste, but here fisherman use it as bait,” Mark says. “You can forage for it on the rocks along our coastline. It was a fluke we found out about it, and now the lettuce is the foundation of our Signature Gin. It compliments these botanicals, which we came across when collecting the sea lettuce one afternoon with the kids in Woonona. It was a hot day, and the heat of the car exploded these amazing smells of some botanicals that were sitting in the back seat. When we arrived back from the beach and opened the doors, we knew this was a great combination.”

Mark’s passion and pride for Wolf & Woman’s now three perfected gins are easy to see as he explains the nuanced delicacies of the gin drinking experience.

“Our Signature Gin is the bestseller, which has quite a bit more complexity and longer finish on it,” Mark says. “It works well in a bunch of different cocktails. Wine drinkers like it as it’s a contemporary-style gin, with spice and cinnamon flavours that give it a savoury and sweet flavour. I like to drink it neat. This autumn we’re also launching a pink gin, which April really wanted to try. It has more of a dry mouth feel and a warming spice. The pepper leaf doesn’t shine through as much.”

Those who share Mark’s curiosity have been flocking to the Wolf & Woman gin school, which Mark hosts to a small gathering of six or so who learn how to brew gin from miniature copper stills. Mark and April’s knowledge about distilling doesn’t stop at gin either. Their Limoncello liqueur is as popular as the story April tells of its creation.

“It takes 400 kilos of lemons to brew a batch of our Limoncello, using only the skins that you boil up,” April shares. “Early on we had to find clever ways to work, so I ran an ad to ask if people wanted to get rid of their unused fruit from backyard lemon trees. As a family, we spent a week traipsing around western Sydney. By the second day, the kids weren’t quite as excited by it, but we were able scrounge 100 kilos of lemons! Our friend Euri, a fruit supplier in Woonona, got the rest for us, which was great. Nothing was wasted. We even dried the inside of the fruit for our garnishes.”

“Our Signature Gin is the best seller, which has quite a bit more complexity on it, it works well in a bunch of different cocktails”

At the impressive Wolf & Woman Distillery, it’s clear the focus is on creating a quality experience, while championing the local area. The products are made with passion, showcasing Mark and April’s expertise, and with a genuine interest in producing small-batch spirits that are both unique and well-loved.

“Where we can, we’ve used Australian and locally made,” says April. “The beans from our coffee liqueur come from Hyper Hyper Coffee in Nowra, and the copper stills came from country NSW. We also only serve local beers.”

As would be expected from this hard-working couple, April and Mark rolled up their sleeves

for a large share of the work when building the space, and are now reaping the rewards. You can see the fruits of April and Mark’s hard yakka and creative mindset everywhere you look. The bar is busy when it opens Thursday through Saturday, and interest in the warehouse space tucked away in Bellambi’s industrial is growing at a fast rate.

“Mark and I like renovating so we did a lot ourselves, like built the bar. We even hired a cherry picker to paint the tall walls,” says April. “It’s all been worth it. It’s so rewarding to see people’s first impressions when trying our spirits. Mark and I are blown away with what can happen if you just put yourself out there.” ¡

Bar open: Thursday 12-5pm, Friday 12-7pm, Saturday 12-8pm

talk to me bro

THE ILLAWARRA-BORN CHARITY AIMING TO PUT AN END TO MALE SUICIDE

Words Helen James, blackhorsecommunications.com.au Images Anthony Smith @anthonysmithmedia

As Australia Day 2018 drew near, Jack Brown was looking forward to enjoying a barbecue with his cousin Matt Simpson and friends – just having a beer and a laugh in the sun. They were close, more like brothers than cousins. But a frantic phone call telling him Matt was missing marked the turning point at which life was irrevocably changed, a chasm dividing before and after, for all who knew and loved Matt.

At 37 years of age, Matt took his life on January 27, 2018. Loved by many, and happily married, Matt had hidden his despair, sharing his inner turmoil with none of his family or friends. In her grief, Matt’s wife Kristy recognised the roadblocks that had stopped her husband from reaching out for help, and printed T-shirts with the words Talk 2 Me Bro for the funeral pallbearers to wear. Her courageous act was the birth of the Wollongong-based charity that has to date impacted an estimated 25,000 people. Talk2mebro has just one primary purpose: to end male suicide. It’s catch cry – brothers don’t let brothers fight alone.

Matt is just one of around 2500 Australian men lost to suicide each year – tragically, it is the leading cause of death for males aged 15-44. The Illawarra Shoalhaven area consistently records male suicide rates higher than the national average. Jack says he nearly became a statistic himself. “After Matt died, I went to a dark place that I couldn’t see a way out of,” he says. “But before I acted on my thoughts, I picked up the phone.”

Today, Jack heads up Talk2mebro and carries the message of connection to others, challenging the social and cultural constructs preventing Australian men from talking about what they

are going through emotionally. “We want to normalise the chat around mental health, and help men see that it’s a rough patch they’re in, not a rough life,” says Jack.

Talk2mebro tackles the stigma that keeps suicide in the shadows head-on with early intervention workshops in schools, groups, corporate settings and remote communities, empowering men to take control of their mental health and emphasising the importance of checking in with their mates. “We can facilitate groups in any setting, for any age, anywhere – from a professional association to a smoking circle in a remote area,” says Jack. “Having a low point in mental health is a universal experience”.

The beating heart of Talk2mebro is the 6am catch-up at City Beach, Wollongong, every Friday. Free of charge, it kicks off with an ice bath, dip in the ocean and then coffee and chat at a nearby cafe. Anywhere between 20 and 50 blokes turn up, some bringing their school-age sons. One of these fathers, Beni, brings his eight-year-old along to be around positive role models and learn healthy ways of managing stress. “Everyone here is about improvement and healthy living,” Beni says. “It’s not about going down the pub and getting blind. Even if you don’t have an issue, it’s great to make the commitment to come, and enjoy the positive vibe”.

The energy even at this early hour is high and infectious, with smiles, hugs and handshakes all round. Many are keen to share their experience with ‘the bros’ and the significant positive impact it has made in their lives. Alex has only been coming to the Friday catch-ups for a few

weeks, but has already felt the benefits. “Here we have real conversation and friendship. It totally challenges the culture of toxic masculinity. Everyone is accepted into this safe space, gay or straight, and whatever your skin colour.”

Adrian agrees: “This is a healthy space to be around other men and see what connection is. Masculinity is about being a role model, and a protector – not a perpetrator – of violence.” Neurodiversity is also welcomed, as Fraser says, “I’ve made so many new friends and get social support from like-minded people. Everyone fits in here.”

Dr Oscar Horky, a local GP and emergency department doctor, has a keen interest in men’s health and sees a broad spectrum of mental health challenges in his workplaces. He recognises the important role that organisations like talk2mebro play in addressing the multiple, complex factors that impact mental health and may lead to suicide.

“Unhealthy habit formation together with financial stressors and historical trauma commonly lead to poor self-care, substance misuse, relationship strain and overall mental

health decline. And it’s common,” says Dr Horky. “Your GP is ideally the first place to seek support in the healthcare system. GPs can establish a Mental Health Care Plan to help patients connect with compatible counsellors and psychologists with subsidised sessions, and work together to set goals for individualised self-care.”

But he also insists that social networks like Talk2mebro are invaluable. “At the crux, whether introverted or extroverted, human beings are social creatures with a yearning to be engaged, heard and valued,” Dr Horky says.

“I've made so many new friends and get social support from like-minded people. Everyone fits in here.”

Regular connection paves the way for conversation when things get tough, making it easier to reach out in a time of need. But in an acute crisis, Dr Horky urges sufferers to go to your nearest emergency department if you need to stay safe.

“Do not feel alone. Going to emergency does not necessarily mean you need a hospital admission. We have experienced mental health clinicians to provide an assessment and link patients to services and supports,” he says.

Responding to a deluge of requests, Talk2mebro has started hosting a monthly mixed-gender event to further facilitate conversation and support across the entire community.

Jack says the goal is “to create environments where suicide prevention happens every day. Better mental health doesn’t have to be serious all the time. We can get together and have a laugh.” ¡

To connect with talk2mebro, follow on Instagram @talk2mebro_au or visit talk2mebro.org.au.There are no membership fees to join the bros.

TALK2MEBRO IS NOT A CRISIS LINE. IF YOU, OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW, NEEDS URGENT HELP, PLEASE CONTACT:

Lifeline 24/7: 13 11 14

Suicide Callback Service 24/7: 1300 659 467 and online counselling at suicidecallbackservice.org.au

Kids Helpline 24/7: 1800 55 1800

root-cause approach

USING EVIDENCE-BASED SCIENCE AND NEURO-TRAINING KINESIOLOGY, DR VERENA RASCHKE-CHEEMA TAKES A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO HEALING

Words Dani Sherring Images Hayley Haynes

We may be more educated, these days, when it comes to gut health and the gutbrain connection, but many still treat the symptoms and struggle to find the root of the niggling health issues present. Coledale local Dr Verena Raschke-Cheema PhD, MSc, is making ways in changing that by using her extensive qualifications in both traditional and holistic medicine, as well as her love of fresh healthy food, to provide solution-based healing that addresses the cause.

Dr Verena began her training at the University of Vienna, in Austria, where she studied nutritional science and completed her masters. As part of her thesis, she looked at Asian populations who moved to Australia and how the Western diet predisposed them to no-communicable disease factors, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. During this time, she travelled back and forward between Vienna and Australia, before making the move permanently to the Illawarra.

After completing her PhD, Verena spent a long time as an academic, but was always interested in a more ‘whole’ way of assessing health. “I was taught to look at each grain of sand when treating patients,” she says. “But I wanted to look at the whole beach, and how each grain is interconnected.”

While in New Zealand, she was fortunate to study the ancient Indian medical system, known as Ayurveda, with a visiting practitioner, which began

to open her mind to a different way of thinking about wellness. Ayurveda, a lifestyle Verena herself was living, is not just about the body. The practice promotes that for whole health to occur, the physical, mental and emotional must all be aligned.

“I saw this while treating patients in clinic,” says Verena. “I was just practicing the nutritional sciences that I was taught, but I was seeing the benefits on my own health by living the Ayurvedic lifestyle, and addressing my emotional stressors and triggers.”

But the real shift began for Dr Verena after sadly losing one of her twin sons in-utero. She went on to give birth to a healthy baby boy, but was faced with another challenge, when her son wasn’t sleeping and started having anxiety attacks through the night. “It’s distressing when you’re a mum a can’t settle your child,” says Dr Verena. “Every one-to-two hours, he’d wake up screaming. After struggling for a year and consulting many doctors, who all said everything was fine, I went to a kinesiologist that I had seen during my pregnancy. I took my son to her and straightway she said, ‘Verena he is in shock because of the loss of his twin; his nervous system is completely distressed’. He was basically in a fight-flight free state.”

From there, the kinesiologist was able to help Verena’s son resolve the trauma and balance out his nervous system. Within two sessions, he was calm and sleeping through the night. “I was so intrigued that I thought, ‘I’m going to study this myself’,” says Dr Verena, who after training in neuro-training kinesiology for three years, started incorporating it into her own practice.

“I was taught to look at each grain of sand when treating patients, but I wanted to look at the whole beach, and how each grain is interconnected.”

During this time, Verena also stopped working as a full-time academic at the university. As a mum, she admits she was wearing too many hats, and instead decided to follow her passion – helping people.

“For me, it was never enough to just prescribe people a dietary plan and supplements,” says Dr Verena. “I wanted to know the root cause of why these symptoms presented. It all starts, 99 per cent of the time from childhood. It’s your experiences that shape your health. I’m really interested in seeing what experiences you’ve had from conception until now that may have compromised your health. That’s what neurotraining is all about – you look at the unresolved physical, emotional and mental stress to identify imbalances, and how the mental/emotional balances affect the physical. It’s all intertwined.”

This is also where the gut-brain connection comes in. Neuro-training is response testing where practitioners use muscle monitoring, and the subconscious mind provides feedback that can identify and correct imbalances within the body.

“It’s an incredible testing tool where you can identify stresses that you’re not even aware of,” says Dr Verena.

So, if you present with digestive issues to Dr Verena, what does a session actually look like? “It stems from chiropractic work,” says Dr Verena. “I work with one of the major muscles in the arm for stress testing. Using references – both written references and the body – I muscle test within the landscape of symptoms, and work to find the missing puzzle piece to identify undefined stresses.”

Clients describe it as, “like a psychology appointment where you talk about the issues, and raise awareness of how the issues are interconnected to physical symptoms, and then we resolve them through muscle testing,” says Dr Verena. “For example, someone comes in who struggles with emotional eating, I will identify the underlying stresses – basically the narrative that’s running subconsciously in your body and what experiences you had in childhood that compromised your stress regulation now affecting your gut. When I understand the emotional stresses affecting your physical body, we do corrections of all sorts – it can be an eye tracking or tapping. We then attach a correction to the concept you identified.”

As well as kinesiology, Verena uses food, lifestyle changes, supplements, and natural medicines as a support. Testing is always number one –bloods, tissue analysis, breath tests, for example, to understand what’s going on in a person’s physiology. “Then once you really know what’s going on physiologically you can use kinesiology, neuro-training to dive deeper into the emotional space,” she says. “We do a session on that, and then a session to resolve – we look at what is in your diet that is detrimental to you, what are the aggravators in your life, and then assess what you need more of to retain balance.”

This treatment is not ongoing, as results are usually seen between one to three sessions, depending on how much baggage a patient has. “A child, with not as much trauma as an adult, for example, could come in with chronic constipation and be fine after one session,” says Dr Verena.

To accompany Dr Verena’s solution-orientated philosophy and incorporate her love of fresh food, she is releasing a cookbook this winter, which she hopes will be easily accessible and one day used by integrative doctors as a practical solution to dietary issues. With over 100 recipes that promote brain health, gut health and vitality, the book, called Dr Verena’s Kitchen, aims to help individualise healing. The recipes, which mostly come from Verena’s life – from her grandmother’s fish soup to her mother-in-law’s Indian cooking –are all sugar-free, gluten-free and dairy-free, and most have a low FODmap and paleo version.

“I love cooking, I’m a total foodie,” says Dr Verena. “This is a cookbook for everybody, every day. The food can help a family or individual to sustain a very easy, quick, delicious way of eating for optimal health. I used to run cooking workshops and I saw how beneficial it was for people to learn in the kitchen when trying to change food habits. I’m so grateful that I can empower people by changing their health from a root-cause point of view, making it sustainable. It brings me the most joy.” ¡

Dr

Verena’s

tips to heal the gutbrain connection

• Eat real food – Everyone needs more vegetables, 6-8 cups of vegies a day.

• Eat diversely – try to have a minimum of 40 different foods a week.

• Chew your food – don’t eat on the run.

• Watch caffeine consumption – no more than two cups of coffee, or 5 cups of tea per day.

• Hydrate in between meals – we underestimate the power of water!

• Be aware of stress – it’s the numberone thing that will compromise the gut-brain connection.

• Prioritise sleep

Tamarind fish curry

Recipe & image Dr Verena, Krystle Manning @of.oat.and.earth

Serves 4

Ingredients

800g of wild caught white fish

fillet, such as monkfish, rockling or ling

Marinade

Juice of one lime

1 teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon black pepper, ground

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Paste

1 red onion, diced

2 garlic cloves, diced

1 tablespoon pine nuts

2 tablespoons ghee or coconut oil, for frying

Sauce

½ teaspoon turmeric powder

1 teaspoon coriander powder

1 teaspoon cumin powder

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon dried red chilli flakes

1 heaped teaspoon tamarind paste

½ cup tomatoes, chopped

¼ cup water

Fresh coriander, to serve

Tamarind is the fruit pod of a tree native to Asia and Africa and is used around the world for its medicinal properties and delicious sour-sweet flavour. Found to relieve constipation, encourage weight loss and combat bacteria and viruses, tamarind is also high in magnesium to reduce inflammation and support heart health. Enjoy this nourishing fish curry with cauliflower rice, quinoa or brown rice, some steamed green beans, leafy greens and garnish with fresh coriander.

Method

1. Rinse the fish fillets then pat dry with paper towel.

2. Combine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl. Evenly coat the fish fillets, cover with cling wrap or beeswax wrap and put in the fridge for 1 hour to marinate.

3. Preheat the oven to 180°C

4. Combine the paste ingredients in a food processor except for the ghee or coconut oil used for frying, and blend until smooth.

5. Heat the ghee or coconut oil in a frying pan over low-medium heat. Spoon in the paste and cook for 2 minutes, then add the turmeric, coriander, cumin, salt and chilli powder and stir well. Add the tamarind paste, chopped tomatoes and water, stir and cook for 5 minutes.

6. Remove the fish fillets and place into the pan, discarding the excess marinade. Cover the pan with its lid and transfer to the oven to bake for 30 minutes or until the fish is cooked through and flakes.

7. Garnish with fresh coriander, and serve partnered with sides of cauliflower rice, quinoa or brown rice, green beans and leafy greens.

Low FODMAP version

Use 2/3 cup of the green tops of spring onions and use 3cm of fresh ginger, peeled and grated instead of the red onion and garlic.¡

This

recipe is taken from Dr Verena’s Kitchen, which will be available for purchase this winter from doctorverena.com

LIGHT, QUICK AND EASY TO MAKE, THIS CURRY WILL BECOME A FIRM FAVOURITE

coal coast changemakers

INTRODUCING LELAND KEAN AND MERRIGONGX

Words Duncan Rintoul Images Tracy Leigh, Children of the Revolution, Justin Huntsdale

Merrigong Theatre Company produces more new, local work than any other regional arts organisation in Australia. Leland Kean is Merrigong’s artistic development manager and, as he explains over lunch at The Fitz in Bulli, a lot goes on behind the scenes to make this happen.

Tell me about your project? The artistic development program at Merrigong has a few different sides to it. Each year we commission two or three mainstage shows, we offer a range of community programs, and we run a really focused independent artists program, where we support local creatives to develop and present new work. We have four MERRIGONGX shows in 2023: two in autumn and two in spring. These are brand new, Australian productions that we’re funding and supporting all the way through to the stage. Then there’s another 17 projects this year that aren’t public facing – we’re providing artists with access to space, resources and mentoring through the developmental process.

What’s the impact you’re aiming for? I’ve always been a big believer in community and connection. What we’re trying to do is create a space where local artists across different artforms can come together, make connections and find their voice so that it can be heard. There are some great stories where homegrown talent has springboarded out of our artistic development program onto stages far and wide. Kay Proudlove’s Dear Diary is a great example of this. It started for us as a couple of songs that Kay played at one of our ‘Made From Scratch’ nights, where independent artists come together to share drafts and works in progress. Kay’s songs were based on her teenage diaries, and we all could tell straightaway that there was something really special about them. During

Covid, we helped her develop this work into a one-woman show, which delighted audiences over a three-night run at IPAC last year and has now been picked up for a national tour in 2024. She’s killing it.

Why is this program important? What makes you passionate about it? Creating the conditions to develop and show new Australian theatre has been the focus of my entire working life. Artists are constantly told they can’t: they can’t make a life out of their craft, can’t have a career, can’t support themselves. That their art will have to be a side hustle. Through our artist development program we’re able to show that there is a way. In fact there are lots of ways, and we help emerging artists establish themselves so they can not just keep the dream alive but build it into a career.

More broadly, as a society, artistic expression lets us tell our stories. It has the ability to be responsive and reveal something of the architecture of who we are and how we are thinking and talking at a given moment in time. As an audience, live performance plays your lives back to you in a way that really disarms and cuts through the noise – it brings things to your consciousness and makes you react and reflect, and invites you to be part of the conversation as you discuss and explore the ideas and the conflicts that are raised for you. And frankly, we need that. As Australians living in the Illawarra, there are important things we need to talk about. And good, new Australian theatre can help us have those conversations.

MerrigongX production Optimal Stopping, 30 Mar-1 Apr

Beyond that, there’s just a unique and beautiful thing about seeing something live. We all lost a lot during the pandemic, and when the live scene was taken from us we really, really missed it. Live performance gives you a collective experience that you just can’t get at home, on your own or on your phone. And although Covid was disastrous for our industry, one silver lining is how it rekindled the passion that Australian audiences have for live shows.

What makes the Illawarra a great place to do this work? The Coal Coast is full of amazing stories. We’re a really diverse community, with rich history culturally – from First Nations stories through to the post-war migration period, and more recently the migration wave from Sydney. Without new artistic work that’s local to the area, our stories don’t get told and we’ll always be listening to other people’s stories.

The new work we develop always aims for universal resonance – not just local relevance. I firmly believe that the best stories are regional stories – this is true globally. One of the first pieces I was involved with at Merrigong was Landscape with Monsters, a co-production with CIRCA that tells the story of post-industrial cities that are in decay. This work premiered here in 2016 and went on to tour nationally, but its second outing was actually in the UK at the Latitude Festival where British audiences recognised the story as one that echoed their own, half a world away. There’s also a really vibrant artistic community here in the Illawarra, and that’s only growing. What we’re doing at Merrigong is part of a much broader ecosystem – an ecology of artistic work that expresses the culture of the area, and we’re really proud to be part of this.

Kay Proudlove on stage in Dear Diary, 2022

Wollongong is also wonderfully political. Audiences are very vocal and engaged. If I do something they don’t like, they’ll find me in the mall – and they’ll tell me. I actually love this, and I love being held accountable. Artists are incredibly resilient creatures. Rejection is something that artists deal with as part of the normal ebb and flow. You learn how to receive critical feedback, and not take it personally.

What else have you learned about the process of leading change? Nuggets of wisdom for other budding Coal Coast Changemakers? Two things. First, never be afraid to ask questions. The arts industry is full of generous, talented people who are very open to sharing their

experience and knowledge. And second, just jump in. I’ve always taken a guerrilla approach to creating new work. Change is difficult. Change creates conflict. It will never be easy – don’t expect it to be. But the end result will always be worth it. Don’t worry when you can’t see around corners, you’ll be surprised how often the magic comes from somewhere you least expect.

How can the community get involved? I always believe the best way to get involved is to come and see what happens. Come as a punter first, sit in the audience and have the experience. From there, we have a whole raft of ways for artists to engage. Local independent artists can check out the full range of opportunities at merrigong.com. au/for-artists.

For anyone keen to support new and emerging artists, get along to the Made From Scratch and MERRIGONGX shows. Details at merrigong.com.au

Supporting independent artists taking creative risks.

Illustration by Clare O’Toole

a piece of cake

BAKER CHLOE KERR, OF WILLOW GEORGE CAKE CO, IS KNOWN FOR HER SPECTACULAR CUSTOM CAKES, FILLED WITH FLAVOUR AND DASH OF NOSTALGIA

Images Willow George Cake Co

There’s something comforting in a simple slice of cake. A soft springy sponge, made from scratch and fresh as the day is young.

From an early age, Chloe Kerr, local baker and founder of Willow George Cake Co absorbed the recipes of her mother and grandmothers. With her family’s Greek heritage, she was shown alternate styles of baking with influences from different corners of the globe.

Years later, Chloe is now the creator of beautiful bespoke cakes that hark back to the traditional flavours she’s always loved.

“As a young child, I would sit in the kitchen watching my mum create all the family birthday cakes, eager to ‘help’ wherever I could. It was in this kitchen, with this spectacular woman that I learned how to decorate, fill and ice a cake correctly, and also how to fix little issues that would arise,” says Chloe.

In 2009, Chloe launched Willow George Cake Co – named after her two children – and now runs the business full time. Drawing on her experience in fashion design, baking allows her creativity to shine through while showcasing thoughtfully prepared recipes using local ingredients and suppliers, sourcing where possible, from small south coast farms.

“Baking for me is meaningful. Our ‘from-scratch’ recipes – that is, butter, sugar, flour, eggs – come from traditional old-fashioned recipes we have refined over the years,” says Chloe.

And it’s those traditional flavours that Chloe finds hard to beat, favouring classic flavours and using fresh fruits and homemade compotes. “I love a beautiful sponge cake with strawberry and fresh cream – traditional yet jam-packed full of flavour. It’s always best on the first day and to use pure ingredients, not commercial,” she says.

Chloe’s cakes are becoming an event must-have, often teaming up with local stylists, florists and balloon businesses to create an overall theme.

Wedding, birthday and christening cakes are booked well in advance and made to Chloe’s very high standards. Chloe credits her clients for her growing business: "I love that they enjoy my art and I truly appreciate their trust in me to create the centrepiece for their most special events."

“Colour palette is important and to match it in with event styling – the flowers or the beautiful tableware – it all adds to the overall event. Wedding cakes are special, I have even created four or five tiers!” Chloe says.

With plans to open her own commercial studio in Auburn Street in Wollongong for baking and for customers to pick up cakes, the year ahead looks bright for Chloe.

“It’s a messy job, but so enjoyable. I love good cake and I love to create!” ¡

“As a young child, I would sit in the kitchen watching my mum create all the family birthday cakes, eager to 'help' whereever I could.”

for

NOURISH + NEST

Nourish + Nest purvey goods that allow you to enjoy small rituals, embrace simplicity and find beauty in the everyday. Nourish + Nest offers Australian organic teas and herbal tisanes, locally made luxe soy candles, natural perfumes, reed diffusers and melts.

The simple acts of lighting a candle, pouring tea, running a bath or gathering around a meal has the ability to calm, nourish, inspire and foster gratitude. Such small rituals are ordinarily, elegantly beautiful.

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www.nourishandnest.com

0499 977993

Find us at: 2/273 Lawrence Hargrave Drive, Thirroul

COAST KIDS

Quality children’s products are what we do. Inspired by Australian beaches and designed for those young and young at heart, we want to encourage others to have as much fun as possible whether it be at the beach, park or backyard.

Designed and tested to ensure products do what they're supposed to – they are safe and provide endless enjoyment.

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AISLE6IX

There’s nothing more satisfying than taking the right sketch, design or painting, and turning it into a piece of printed art. T-shirts have been a defining feature of modern society since the ‘50s. From rock’n’roll band logos to protest slogans, the humble T-shirt is the perfect blank canvas for self-expression.

At Aisle6ix, T-shirts have been our jam from day one. We’ve printed for the likes of Young Henry’s, Twitter, Sydney Mardi Gras, Seeker Brewing, Howlin' Wolf Bar and more – and we love nothing more than seeing the tees we’ve printed roaming the streets. Based in Coniston, come past, take a look and let's work on your merch together.

@aisle6ix

info@aisle6ix.com

Find us at: 118 Auburn Street Coniston

WILDFLOWER

A popular baby and children’s fashion brand! Each piece has been thoughtfully designed by local mum, Amanda. Original, unique, high quality and timeless linen designs with new collections each season. Sizes range from newborn to 6.

Have you begun your Mini Wildflower collection?

@miniwildflower

Find us at: Chatterbox, Stockland

Shellharbour

True Blue Floor Care

Family-owned and operated, True Blue Floor Care is the Illawarra's go-to for carpet and tile cleaning and pest control. From household carpets, tile and grout, upholstery and pest control to commercial spaces and aged care facilities, Glenn and his team are reliable and friendly. Fully qualified and police check certified, you can have peace of mind leaving your home or business in their capable and trusted hands.

@truebluefloorcare

truebluefloorcare.com.au 0422 091 023

Servicing Helensburgh to Kiama

If you would like to have a product featured next issue, please email sales@coalcoastmagazine.com to book in.

coalcoastmagazine.com @coalcoastmag coalcoastmag

running to freedom

FRAME RUNNING WOLLONGONG IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE FOR CHILDREN WITH A DISABILITY

Words Hayley Griffiths @hayleyg.creative Images Spencer Dungey @loveofmine.co

It all started with three passionate women – Sian Napper, Renee Jurgielan and physiotherapist Suzy Lock had a vision to give children with mobility challenges the freedom to move and play together. This has since developed into an not-for-profit charity called Frame Running Wollongong. Their mission is to enable preschool and primary school-aged children with a disability or impaired balance to participate in physical activity while enjoying social participation, inclusion and equal opportunity.

The journey began 18 months ago with the idea of introducing innovative ‘Frame Runners’ to the Illawarra. A Frame Runner is a three-wheeled mobility device (similar to a trike but with no pedals), which allows those who can’t stand, or struggle to walk, to independently move, and with some practise, run too.

With support from the local community and a team of dedicated volunteers, the program has expanded to offer children the opportunity to experience the joy of movement, while also providing a valuable support network for parents and siblings. Founder and physiotherapist Suzy Lock explains that often she comes across parents of children with mobility issues who are frustrated with the lack of opportunity for their kids to be involved in physical activity. “As a result, these kids can feel isolated from their peers at school or in the playground,” Suzy says. “However, Frame Running Wollongong has changed this for many children as they learn to move, work together and have fun building lifelong skills with their friends.”

Frame Running Wollongong recently became a funding recipient of the IMB Bank Community Foundation in 2022, which has enabled the organisation to expand their services and make a positive impact to the lives many more kids in the Wollongong region. “We are supporting 52 diverse grassroots projects that aim to build brighter futures for Australian communities,” the chief executive of IMB Bank, Robert Ryan, says. “Funding will provide a much-needed boost as they rebuild, recover and plan ahead after several challenging years.”

From the purchase of additional Frame Runners (costing $6000 each) and safety barriers, to further investment in volunteer training, the grant has been an invaluable contribution to help achieve the vision of the organisation.

“We are supporting 52 diverse grassroots projects that aim to build brighter futures for Australian communities.”

Every week, a group of 15 or so children arrive at the University of Wollongong Sports Hub – a venue partner that operates the program – for an afternoon of games, team building and skill development with a volunteer assigned to each participant. The program consists of one hour after school per week, where the kids experience

a sporting activity – Frame Running with targeted goals, assessment, outcomes, and fun and inclusivity. And the fun is not just for these kids but their siblings, too. The whole family is encouraged to come along, with a sibling program offered and afternoon tea shared together.

“It’s about inclusive sporting fun, playing games, making new friends and the freedom of movement, but most of all putting a smile on kids’ faces,” says Suzy.

“It’s about inclusive sporting fun, playing games, making new friends and the freedom of movement, but most of all putting a smile on kids’ faces.”

Suzy Lock, Sian Napper and Renee Jurgielan

If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, the Frame Running Wollongong team would love to hear from you. Visit the website, framerunningwollongong.org.au for more information and submit a volunteer interest form to get started: info@framerunningwollongong.org.au

ILLAWARRA ITeC

UNDER THE DYNAMIC NEW LEADERSHIP OF CEO ALI ANDERSON, ILLAWARRA

ITeC IS FORGING AN INNOVATIVE PATH INTO VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING IN THE ILLAWARRA REGION AND BEYOND.

ITeC’s focus is to provide person-centred learning and support and meet you where you are on your education journey, no ATAR required.

With small class sizes offered in a flexible, inclusive, and supportive learning environment, your unique needs can be accommodated.

Recent ITeC graduate, Kip Patmore reflects, “Everyone should be included in education and employment, no matter who you are or where you come from – everyone should have equal opportunity to participate.

“ITeC has been incredibly supportive of my needs throughout my study, and to complete the course in my own way and own time”

– Kip Patmore, graduate

Alternatively, if you are a business looking to provide training to your workforce, ITeC can deliver training on-site, meeting your unique workforce requirements and business needs.

ITeC partners with local businesses to provide students with a pathway to employment upon completion of the course.

ITeC offers a diverse range of courses, students can gain skills locally with industry-led training. ITeC offers fee free courses for students who meet the Smart and Skilled funding criteria. For more details visit our website www. illawarraitec.edu.au.

Some of the courses on offer in 2023 are:

• Certificate III in Music

• Certificate III in Screen and Media

• Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services.

Students enrolled in the Certificate III in Hospitality have opportunities to put their skills to use at the in-house café ‘The Fox & The Miller’.

Students from all walks of life, with a diverse range of learning needs, are well-scaffolded with ITeC’s holistic and creative approach, “I live with an intellectual and physical disability, (Cerebral Palsy), the staff are very supportive with my needs,” said Kip.

If traditional learning models and environments don’t quite suit you, Illawarra ITeC could be your perfect solution in 2023.

Illawarra ITeC

Corner Fox Ave & Miller Street, Coniston

Phone: 4223 3100 / illawarraitec.edu.au

@ illawarraitec

Kip Patmore – Graduate, Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services

all that jazz…

THIS MARCH, THE KIAMA BLUES & JAZZ FESTIVAL WILL SEE LOCAL CREATIVES ALAN HICKS AND NICK GARBETT UNITE ON STAGE

Interview Kate O’Mealley Words Emily Perkins Images Chris Frape

High school friends and musicians Alan Hicks from Tarrawanna and Nick Garbett from Otford are returning to their roots after enjoying much success overseas. Between the two talented instrumentalists, they have formed multiple bands, performed alongside pinnacles of the jazz world, co-ordinated festivals, and directed highly acclaimed documentaries. Now, this March they will play big parts in local events, Get Together and the Kiama Blues & Jazz Festival to do what they do best… share their passion for music.

Alan and Nick first met in Year 7 at Wollongong High School of Performing Arts and have been mates ever since. They bonded over a love of music, and this shared passion has remained true throughout their friendship. It’s when Alan and Nick started playing at the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music – Alan on drums and Nick on trumpet – that a teacher they admire introduced them to jazz, and ultimately helped them fall in love with the musical genre.

“That’s kind of when we started playing jazz – we were about 15,” Nick says. “My dad also got us into it, he was always listening to blues, and pushing us into it.”

After school, Nick and Alan ended up on different paths. They both auditioned to study at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, but only Nick got in. Laughing, Nick says the reason his mate Al missed out was because of Schoolies.

“I had to fly home in the middle of Schoolies to do the audition… it wasn't pretty – I dropped my drumsticks,” Alan remembers. “I was pretty devastated because I just saw Nick and I on this trajectory together, and a lot of our friends had gotten in as well.”

But Alan didn’t let this small kink in the road stop him. He signed up for a two-week jazz camp at William Patterson University in New Jersey, USA, which resulted in him being accepted into their university program. “I guess there wasn't Schoolies over there, so I just got my focus together,” Alan jokes.

Fortuitously, while in the US studying, Alan met jazz icon Clark Terry, and became part of one of his music ensembles, with whom he travelled the world. Alan also went on to consider Clark a good friend. Such good friends, in fact, that he would soon create an award-winning film about the legendary trumpeter.

During this time, Nick was also travelling back and forth to New York to study and be mentored by Clark. “Al would take me out to his house in New Jersey and then out to Arkansas,” Nick says.

In 2008, Alan moved home and lived in Stanwell Park with Nick, and mutual friend, saxophonist Jeremy Rose. During this time together, the muso mates began writing Afro-beat compositions. Having all spent time overseas, they were creating music inspired by their travels and experiences. From these jam sessions, much-loved reggae band The Strides was formed. And the now nine-piece band has three studio albums, and countless east coast tours under their belt.

A couple of years after The Strides took shape, Alan returned to the States and was out surfing with photographer friend, Adam Hart, who was visiting from Wollongong. The pair struck up a conversation about filming Clark Terry and things escalated quickly. With both pals up for a challenge, it took off and soon evolved into the planning of full-fledged feature documentary.

“I guess it was kind of risky as far as our careers went, with all of a sudden investing all of our time

and money into filming, when we both didn't know how to do it,” Alan says.

The film Keep On, Keepin’ On depicts the friendship and mentorship between music pioneer and teacher, Clark, and a young blind piano prodigy, Justin Kauflin. Alan witnessed true magic not only in the way Clark mentored this young up-and-comer, but also as Justin helped Clark cope when his own sight was affected by diabetes. It was a special bond the two shared captured beautifully on camera by Alan and his team.

“That was really nice,” says Alan. “This young kid encouraging an 85-year-old man to be like, ‘It’s actually going to be all right’. Clark was worried about the darkness, but Justin was explaining that, once you do go completely blind, it's not dark, your brain goes into fill in the colour.”

Sadly, Clark passed away in 2015 – and while Alan misses him, he’s happy that a piece of the pioneer trumpeter lives on through the film, “I feel good that we were able to capture his essence and a bit of his spirit that people can enjoy now,” says Alan.

Nick was equally busy throughout these years, and after graduating from his Bachelor in Jazz Studies at the Conservatorium, he played in a bunch of bands. “I'm right into putting groups together and touring,” he says.

Nick holds multiple accolades as a band leader, trumpeter and composer. As well as The Strides, he is also a founding member of the Australian quartet, The Vampires, who he will be touring with this April, and leads his own bands, Garfish and The Nick Garbett Quintet.

In 2018, he was the recipient of Australia’s most prestigious jazz award, the Freedman Jazz Fellowship, and has performed, toured, written and recorded alongside well-known artists, including Don Henley from The Eagles, Noel Gallagher, Jimmy Barnes, Bernard Fanning, and The Presets.

Meanwhile, after the success of Alan’s first movie, an opportunity arose to co-direct the now Grammy award-winning documentary, Quincy – a film that follows the life of multi-talented musician and producer, Quincy Jones. Alan met Quincy while he was filming Keep On, Keepin’ On – Quincy was a producer on the film – and travelled the world with him during the awards campaign.

“I was pretty awestruck about being in that guy’s presence,” Alan reflects. “But we also had common ground – we shared the same teacher as well. Quincy was taught by Clark in the 1940s and I was taught by Clark in the 2000s.”

Nick Garbett

Quincy and his daughter, Hollywood actress Rashida Jones, asked Alan if he would co-direct his film, which of course he immediately agreed to.

“When you're in his world, you don't have much control of who’s going to walk into the room – it scared the hell out of me,” Alan laughs. Oprah Winfrey, Barack Obama, Paul McCartney, and Samuel L. Jackson are just a few of the star-studded cast to feature in the documentary.

Alan says that working on the film was a highly pressured environment where he was constantly on his toes, but it was incredible experience and one where he was able to share the story of an inspirational man. “Somebody like Quincy and Clark… you can just learn a lot from being in the room with them for five minutes,” says Alan. “Those films were about capturing that feeling for a wider audience to experience.”

Since the 2018 release of the highly praised doco, Alan has now teamed up with FINCH Entertainment to create FINCH X No Worries – a production company cultivating creative-driven, culturally significant entertainment. “I also really hope to be playing more music,” says Alan, who getting his wish, and along with Nick part of two big music festivals set for the coast this March.

Nick’s latest venture with his friend, Col Renton, is the Get Together Music Festival back for its second year at Wombarra Bowlo. “I'm basically just drawing on all my contacts over the years and there's lots of great musicians and great bands,” Nick says excitedly.

There will be three stages and three bars running over the weekend, with local bands launching the festivities on the Friday night, and great acts including Watussi, Steph Strings, Godtet, The Doonooch Dancers and The Strides continuing the party through until Sunday.

The Get Together Festival first kicked off last year at Wombarra, and Nick’s hope is that eventually the gig will fill a bigger venue, and include even more diverse, creative, and quality artists. “We're talking about trying to tour it as a regional small festival

around New South Wales and potentially Australia,” says Nick.

A week after Get Together, Nick and Alan will unite for the Kiama Jazz & Blues Festival, held from March 10-12. A rare screening of Alan’s Keep On, Keepin’ On will be aired on opening night, featuring a Q&A with Alan, and a Clark Terry musical tribute to follow, where Nick and Alan will perform together alongside a stellar line-up of jazz musicians.

The three-day musical festival will take place at venues across Kiama, Gerringong and Minnamurra, and is set to star some huge names in Australian jazz, like pianist Barney McAll, who both Nick and Alan are excited to see.

“It’s a great festival, and mostly free to come and watch,” says Nick. “We’re really looking forward to it.” ¡

local biz love

NOW MORE THAN EVER, BUSINESSES NEED OUR SUPPORT! HERE, YOU CAN CHECK OUT SOME GREAT LOCAL TRADERS TO GET BEHIND

If you would love to have your business featured in our next edition, reach out to Kate, sales@coalcoastmagazine.com, to secure your spot.

Revolution Consulting Group

SALLY DILLON IG @ revolutionconsultinggroup

How did you establish your business? After 20+ years in human Resources roles, I decided it was time to follow my heart to leave the corporate world and open my own business. I have worked in all kinds of industries – manufacturing, aged care – and corporate environments including private, not for profit and government roles so I knew that I had a lot to offer the diverse businesses of the Illawarra and surrounding areas. Initially I was being engaged by word of mouth from people that knew me from the industry or I had worked with before, but now I am getting more known through the amazing networking groups of the Illawarra and local client referrals.

What does your business pride itself on?

Integrity is my number one value. I'm also a straight shooter, so I like to get in and ask the questions that I need to get to the real heart of the issue or challenge. Then I can provide simple, practical solutions to help solve and prevent HR issues, such as finding and keeping great staff, dealing with timeconsuming staff issues, or having ineffective or non-compliant processes.

Tell us about your biggest successes/ challenges? My biggest success would probably be becoming a number one Amazon bestseller for the multi-author book ChangeMakers which was released in 2019. Myself and 19 other amazing women got to share our stories about our lives and how we have overcome challenges and tried to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

My biggest challenge in the last year or so has been the transition from being an employee to business owner. There is a lot to learn outside of your core skills like marketing and creating a business strategy for your own business. Also staying on the path as a small business owner is challenging, it's much easier to go and work for someone else, so getting the right business coach and mindset is the best thing I have done this past year.

What do you enjoy most about running your business in the Illawarra? It's the people! People from the Illawarra are kind, hardworking and friendly. They are also generous with helping others in business, and you can really get to know them and their business and work in partnership together to achieve great outcomes.

Beetogether Celebrant

GABRIELLE QUIGLEY

www.beetogther.com.au

IG @beetogethercelebrant

Image @billielikes

How did you establish your business? In 2021-22, I did the celebrancy course, rebranded my beeswax candles, laid the foundation for BeeTogether and then started to do what celebrants do best – help people celebrate being together. I was keen for my initial weddings to be in person and not via Zoom, so I waited for a perfect time. Of course there is no perfect time. A few days out from launching the website, I get a call to step in to do a wedding for a fellow celebrant. Talk about divine timing kickstarting a new chapter. I’m now making the most of my professional skills in public speaking, the arts and event planning in this new role.

What does your business pride itself on?

I help you create your personal ceremony, so that together we create a celebration to fit your perfect moments. Attention to detail, a love of writing, blending modern and/or traditional elements and rituals to get the best juice for the client. I factor in the design of the space to help the photographer secure the best shots for their clients. The bee is symbolic of harmonious communities and is known for the strength in working together. Here in lies the heart of what I love to do.

Tell us about your biggest successes/ challenges? Three weddings within six weeks of launching and very happy clients. I loved the quick change of hats when I performed a garden ceremony where I worked at Nan Tien Temple. Biggest challenge – I’m a sole trader blending both service and product in a business. Say no more! Creative challenge – managing my serious crush on beeswax candles; I offer candles for gifts, table decor, ceremonies, photobooth decor, commissions and parties and workshops. Give me instant aromatic and romantic ambience.

What do you enjoy most about running your business in the Illawarra? There are many underutilised beautiful places for weddings and other ceremonies in our region and so much creative talent around to help style special occasions. Lifting the veil on these places and people to clients is rewarding. It solves problems and offers inspiration. Having lived here for 30 years, the close community connections across the sectors makes the people so open to support each other and try new collaborations. ¡

drop a line

A GOOD DAY OF FISHING ISN’T ABOUT CATCHING FISH – IT’S ABOUT BEING OUTSIDE IN NATURE, IT’S ABOUT FRESH AIR AND OCEAN GAZING, AND IT’S ABOUT THE THRILL OF THE TUG ON A LINE WHEN YOU’RE JUST ABOUT TO PACK UP AND HEAD HOME

Words Erin Huckle @chucklecommunications Main image Peter Masters @studioqube

There’s a quote about fishing that goes: Fishing is a passion that can never be explained. On the face of it, fishing doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. We’re going to stand around for hours, with potentially nothing to show for it other than sunburn and a smelly empty bait bucket? And this is fun?

Here in the Illawarra we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to land-based fishing locations, whether you’re an angler from way back or a first-time fisher. If you’re new to this fishing game, be aware that all recreational fishing in NSW requires a permit, with some exceptions – for example, kids under the age of 18. It pays to check before you cast a line, to avoid a hefty fine. Why not try one of these stunning spots next time you're keen to drop a line...

Belmore Basin

Throw in a line off the harbour walls where the fishing boats park-up and you might just catch something. This is a super-easy and accessible spot for beginners, plus if you don’t land any fish, you can still grab some delicious fish and chips from one of the spots right on the harbour (or jump in for a swim to cool-off if that sun is getting too much). It’s a day out with more than ‘just’ fishing, so certain to be a winner.

Lake Illawarra

The size of Lake Illawarra can be overwhelming. And with many hidden jetties along its bank, it's full of surprises and worth exploring! The jetty at Berkeley is a great place to try your fishing luck, and very kid friendly. It’s also a surprisingly quiet spot, and again near to a playground and skatepark if you’re with the kids and they get bored of fishing within 20 minutes. Although surely fishing is the ideal opportunity to teach kids the value of patience and delayed gratification?

Windang

When you ask friends and fishers for their top local spots, Windang comes up time and again. Try from both sides of the bridge, or head around to the beach at Warilla. When the tide is low you can even head out to the sand banks. There’s ample parking, and even a table where you can clean up any fish you catch, plus once again, great playgrounds and a cafe nearby, if you want to make a proper day out of it.

Towradgi

There’s plenty of room here to space yourself out along the beach, so you can keep well clear of swimmers and surfers. When the surf is up, you can cast out a long line into the waves and you might get lucky. Try the north and south ends of the beach near the rocky outcrops, ideally on overcast or cooler days when there are less people around and more space to fish.

Seven Mile Beach

Head south to Seven Mile Beach and find some of the region’s best beach fishing (with literally miles of beach explore). The mouth of Crooked River has some great fishing, or chat to the friendly locals for their tips on where the best nibbles are happening on any particular day. No luck? Head to the Fisherman’s Club at Gerroa for a cracking fish lunch. ¡

Lake Illawarra

THE BARNEY MCALL GOSPEL SOLO BARNEY MCALL NON-COMPLIANCE TRIO

BENJI & THE SALTWATER SOUND SYSTEM CALICO: NESS QUINN

CANNING DUCK

CASUARINA LIGHT PHENOMENON

CHARLIE NEEDS BRACES CHLOE KAY & THE CRUSADE

CONE OF CONFUSION COPE ST PARADE CORMAC GRANT

CJ STRANGER DADDY LONG LEGS & THE SWAMP DONKEY

DAN BENNETT DEAN HAITANI FIRETAIL

FRANSISCO SONUR HOME COOKING TONY ALLEN TRIBUTE

HOWLIN MITCH & THE HABENEROS HUCKLEBERRY & THE DEVILS DANDRUFF

MITCH BURGESS JACK & JAY KEEP ON KEEPIN ON: CLARK TERRY ALL STAR EVENT

LUX MATT KATSIS NICOLE BROPHY OWEN CAMPBELL OYOBI

POLICE BIG BAND THE WOLLCON JAZZ COMBO TOMMEE BALUKEA

TRIPLE KARMA VINCENT DJ ...BUSKERS AND MORE!

tackle tassie

A FIRST-HAND RECOUNT OF A 10-DAY ROAD TRIP THROUGH AUSTRALIA’S APPLE ISLE

Words Matt Castell, curatedtravel.com.au

Instead of a road trip up the coast over the summer break, this year, we headed ‘overseas’ to the Apple Isle, Tasmania, for a driving holiday around the island state.

You can fly directly to three major airports – Hobart, Launceston and Devonport from Sydney – in less than two hours. We hired a car and started our adventure in Launceston.

One of Australia’s oldest cities, the small, walkable town boasts amazing well-preserved Georgian era buildings, beautiful parks and one of the best farmers markets in the Southern Hemisphere, held on Saturdays. We used “Launie” as a base to explore the Tamar Valley Wine Trail – a region filled with incredible cool-climate wineries and restaurants. A favourite was Swinging Gate Vineyard, which has as a wide range of traditional and naturally fermented options to try. They also have luxury accommodation pods in the vineyard – book ahead, as they’re very popular.

Our next stop was Derby, only two-hours east of Launceston. The tiny town started in the early 1800s due to tin mining, then fell into disrepair, until recently when a network of mountain bike trails was set up called the Blue Derby Trails. Now, the town’s cafes and pubs are filled with happy, muddy trail riders that gives it a ski resort vibe… just swap the snow for mud.

If you’re not into flying downhill on two wheels, there are plenty of hikes to keep you busy. One

of the highlights of our trip was booking the Floating Sauna, a 10-minute walk from town. You can book a private one-hour session, which comes with a ‘sauna master’ on hand to make sure all you have to do is relax and enjoy your hot-cold sauna experience. The sauna sits on Lake Derby, a beautiful 22-degree lake to dive into (multiple times) during your session. Book ahead and bring plenty of water to drink.

We stayed in a town called Winnaleah, which has a population of less than 250 people, a pub and a post office. It’s a seven-minute drive to Derby and offers an authentic country town vibe. Stop into the Winnaleah Hotel for a ‘six’ of Cascade Lager and a game of pool with one of the friendly locals. The food is top-notch pub grub, and the staff are great for a bit of friendly banter.

Off we headed, through ancient rainforests and lush pastures towards the East Coast. Roughly halfway to the coast, we pulled into Pyengana Dairy and Farmgate Cafe. Their coffee is on-point – how can it not be when the cows are being milked 20m away. Their cheese is some of the best I’ve tried, and you can also enjoy traditional scones in the backyard with the cows roaming.

We hit the coast at St Helens, a quaint town surrounded by oyster farms and hills. We turned north to have a gander at Binalong Bay, which is at the south end of Bay of Fires. The water is crystal clear, the sand is white, and the scenery is jaw-dropping. I wish we had longer to stay here.

Another couple of hours southward, via scenic coastal roads, we hit our next destination –

Freycinet Lodge. More amazing, uncrowded beaches, mouth-watering oysters, wine, and friendly locals. Coles Bay is framed by a small, picturesque, rocky mountain and the famous Wineglass Bay, which can be accessed by a three-hour hike or a short boat trip.

This was the ‘splurge’ part of the trip – we indulged in locally caught seafood, many bottles of wine from the region and in-room massages, arranged by the lodge. I can’t fault Freycinet Lodge – definitely book ahead so you don’t miss out.

Another two-hour drive south, we hit the thriving port of Hobart. We left early so we could catch the famous Salamanca Markets (held on Saturdays), where we munched on regional and exotic foods and filled our bags with produce to take home with us.

Hobart has an amazing pub and restaurant scene. We didn’t make any plans and ended up crawling our way around town tasting snacks and drinks as we went. Tassie is also a haven for whisky lovers. You can do a tasting at many spots or do a full day distillery tour.

We spent our last day at MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). It’s one of the weirdest places I’ve ever been and an absolute must-visit. It’s located 30-minutes from town, and they offer a ferry from Hobart Marina. We booked ‘Posh Pit’ tickets, which come with delicious canapes and unlimited drinks while onboard – a wonderful way to start a visit to a wacky museum built into the side of a cliff.

Then to top off a visit to MONA, when you exit the building on the top floor, you’re greeted by a craft beer brewery, food trucks and a grassy area with musicians. We spent a couple hours lazing in the sun, sipping wine, and talking about our museum experience, then headed back to town on the boat (with more food and drinks).

Tassie has reinvigorated my interest is visiting more of Australia, especially regional areas, and smaller towns. At times, it felt like I’d timetravelled back to the 1970s when life was slower, conversations longer and more open space. If that sounds like fun to you, give Tassie a thought for your next holiday. ¡

For help planning your next getaway, get in touch at matt@curatedtravel.com.au

THE CHALLENGING FACTS ABOUT CHRONIC BACK PAIN

WITH HEIDI CLARKE, ACCREDITED EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGIST

It probably doesn’t surprise you that in Australia, 4 out of 5 people have experienced back pain at some point in their life. It is estimated that 1 in 6 people within Australia report that they have ‘back problems’, with back pain is the most common musculoskeletal complaint people present to their GP with.

Fortunately, for nearly 90% of people, these complaints will be non-specific back pain, meaning there is nothing sinister causing their pain. Most of these complaints will come about from muscle weakness from too little exercise. Back pain can also be the result of doing too much when your body is not accustomed to an activity, such as heavy gardening or repetitive lifting causing physical fatigue, resulting in muscles spasm or strain.

The ways to treat and speak about back pain over the years has improved as we have become more knowledgeable about back pain and its causes. The most important thing regarding back pain is to understand what might be triggering it and, with guidance, keep moving.

Back pain can be scary and painful, especially when it appears to have no cause, is impacting your life and hanging around a long time. It can be hard to accept that you just have to ‘get on with it’ and sometimes it may feel that you are not able.

That is where it is important to seek guidance on pain management strategies such as safe movement and where to start.

Our friendly team of Accredited Exercise

Physiologists are here to help support clients to better understand and reduce fear about back pain.

10 facts to challenge back pain

1. Chronic back pain is rarely life threatening with less than 2% relating to a serious disease such as cancer. Chronic back pain is more likely a symptom of poor functional ability, which is linked to mortality risk than back pain itself.

2. Old age does not equate to back pain –more likely it is a symptom of deconditioning resulting from a reduction in activity

3. Chronic back pain rarely relates to serious disease or damage. Body tissue healing times vary yet are generally no more than 3 months. Research in chronic pain show many contributing factors that are more likely to lead to chronic pain, such as stress, fatigue, inactivity and poor pain coping behaviours.

4. A ‘scary’ scan does not predict the levels, severity nor the time frame of back pain. Post COVID lockdowns show many people reporting a reduction in activity and increases in pain. Most of their scans show changes that develop over a long period. There is evidence that shows across a general population that 80% of people with pathology on a scan of their back report NO pain.

5. Pain with movement does not mean you are doing harm. Movement of the spine in all directions can be safe and is necessary for a health spine. Long term pain is associated with a heightened sensitivity of our nervous system and does not relate to the severity of an injury.

6. Poor posture does not cause back pain. Our body’s create signals to get us moving, if you ignore these signals then you may have stiffness or soreness in certain postures, especially if they are prolonged. These postures are not the cause of lower back pain, albeit they may be painful.

7. A weak core does not cause back pain. Our core’s role is to regulate the pressure within our abdominal cavity. If a load is repetitive or is too heavy and we are not accustomed to it, then it is harder for ALL muscles to manage that load, not just your core. Learning to tensing your ‘core’ all the time is often not helpful for back pain.

8. Normal everyday bending and loading does not wear out our backs. Movement and loading are safe when implemented gradually and our muscles and other tissue have time to adapt to the load. In cases of metastatic bone cancer or osteoporosis then particular movements may need more caution.

9. Pain flare ups do not mean you have injured yourself or caused more damage. Flare ups are often related to things such as fatigue, stress, and changes to activity - either too much or too little).

10. Effective treatments are usually cost effective and non-invasive. Unfortunately, the old saying is often true, if it sounds too good to be true, then it is. Medications, injections and even surgery are often not effective for back pain long term. Other ‘quick fixes’ may help in the very short term, yet in many cases the pain returns quickly. The great news is that simple approaches can often provide the greatest long-term results and reduce risk of back pain returning. These approaches are graded exercise therapy, improved sleep, and maintaining a healthy social life. Pain education can be extremely helpful in chronic pain, along with counselling to promote a positive mindset.

It's an absolute privilege to live near the beach but sometimes that can come with some trade-offs. The coastal environment is not always gentle and kind, it can be wild and unforgiving for gardens and gardeners alike. The salty air, strong winds and poorer soils mean that choosing the right plants for coastal sites can be difficult.

Planting a garden in an exposed site often requires a little bit of extra TLC to get the plants established, then staking and regular watering is important to keep them thriving, surviving and looking beautiful.

There are two main zones for coastal planting – the front line and the second line. Front line plants are those that can put up with heavily salted winds and poor soils that would be too much for most other plants. They often have specially adapted leaves (thick, shiny, or succulent) that allow them to handle front line conditions and the occasional sand blast.

Front line trees and shrubs will also tend to have stunted growth and curve with the direction of the wind. You can protect young plants with tree guards until they establish. Planting a windbreak is a good idea if you want some protection and the ability to plant more delicate plants behind exposed areas.

The second line coastal zone starts where plants are protected from direct salt spray whether it be by a dune, hill, made structure or windbreak. The plants you can grow here still need some salt tolerance but not as much as those on the front line. What you can grow will depend more on the soil you have and the wind. Most of the Illawarra has clay soil, but the soils you have in the second line zone may be a mix of clay, sand, rock or loam. Check what conditions you’re working with before choosing which plants to grow. Bottlebrushes, melaleucas and tea trees are a good option for clay sites, they cope well with heavy soils but also some salt tolerance.

Try these hardy plants

Grasses & groundcovers:

Pigface – Carpobrotus glaucescens

Lomandra sp. and cultivars

Warrigal Greens – Tetragonia tetragonioides

Swamp Lily – Crinum pedunculatum

Snake Vine – Hibbertia scandens

Creeping Boobialla – Myoporum parviflorum

Salt Bush – Atriplex and Rhagodia

Native Geranium Pelargonium australe

Banksia spinulosa dwarf

Ficinia nodosa

Kangaroo Paws – Anigozanthos sp.

Shrubs:

Coastal Rosemary – Westringia sp.

Correa sp.

Rice Flower – Ozothamnus diosmifolius

Leucadendrons and Leucospermums

Protea sp.

Callistemon sp. and cultivars

Kunzea ambigua

Trees:

Coast Tea Tree – Leptospermum laevigatum

Coast Banksia – Banksia integrifolia

Melaleuca sp.

Cottonwood Hibiscus tiliaceus ‘rubra’

2023: The year for first home buyers

FIRST HOME BUYERS ARE SEIZING THE OPPORTUNITY TO ENTER THE PROPERTY MARKET IN 2023 THANKS LARGELY TO A SLOWING PROPERTY MARKET AND THE RAFT OF GOVERNMENT BENEFITS ON OFFER

Words Aaron Christie-David, Atelier Wealth Image iStock

What benefits am I eligible for? Let’s have a look at the incentives on offer:

1. First Home Buyers Choice (FHBC) scheme

2. First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme

3. First Home Guarantee (FHG) scheme

4. First Home Owner Grant (New Home)

5. Shared Equity Scheme

6. Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee (RFHBG)

The most significant change for First Home Buyers is the eligible purchase price limit has been raised to $1,500,000 which is great news considering the recent price growth in the Illawarra. This change means you can elect to pay Stamp Duty upfront or opt to pay an Annual Property Tax.

What’s the difference between Stamp Duty and an Annual Land Tax? Stamp Duty is a one-off payment, calculated as a percentage of your purchase price. This usually means you’ve had to use part of your savings towards land tax which has limited how much deposit you have.

Annual Property Tax payments are based on the land value of the purchased property. The property tax rates for 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 will be:

• $400 plus 0.3% of land value of your first home; or

• $1,500 plus 1.1% of land value for your investment property

If you are unsure about which option to choose, some considerations are:

• How long do you think you would be living in this home?

• Would you consider turning this into an investment property after you move out?

• How much deposit do you currently have and how much can you purchase for?

How do I work out my eligibility? For all the First Home Owner incentives on offer there are eligibility criteria you need to meet and these will vary across the different schemes, which include:

• Purchase price

• Income limits: based on being a single or couple there is some restrictions around how much you earn to qualify

• Is the property vacant land, brand new or an existing home?

• How much deposit do you have: some options allow for a 2-5% deposit and not incurring Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)

• Location: across the Illawarra region you may qualify for the Regional First Home Buyer Guarantee (RFHBG)

• Age: you need to be a minimum of 18 years old and there are some options for singles over 50

• Occupations: nurses, teachers or police have access to new schemes

• Open to Australian citizens

• You or your partner cannot have previously purchased a property.

Big four questions for first home buyers:

1. How much can I borrow?

2. How much deposit do I need?

3. What First Home Buyer benefits or schemes am I eligible for?

4. What and where can I buy?

If you are keen to purchase your first home and would like assistance with answering these questions, contact the team at Atelier Wealth.

trivia nights

Do you love trivia? We do too. Whether your speciality is '80s music, European history, celebrity baby names or the all-encompassing general knowledge, attending a trivia night is a fun way to catch up with friends or family while you test your knowledge. And who doesn’t love some healthy competition and a quirky team name?

Drag Trivia at Figtree Hotel

Tuesdays at 7pm

Queen Bree hosts this fun and raunchy trivia every week. The crowd is all ages and Bree is super entertaining, engaging the whole crowd and making sure you have a great night. The crowd is eclectic and friendly, but this one is better if you leave the kids at home or with a babysitter. You can also book a table and order dinner from the fantastic bistro while you play.

The Illawarra Brewery, Wollongong

Wednesdays at 7pm

Trivia at the Brewery is a fast-paced, eight-round format with rounds split into themes. This is also an all ages trivia, which has a rowdier game play and includes visual and musical clues. They also have prizes for each round winners, as well as the main prizes at the end. You can book tables in advance and also grab one of the $15 meal options while you play.

Corrimal RSL

Thursdays at 7pm

A popular night for the northern suburbs, trivia with host Boultee offers an eclectic mix of '80s music to local knowledge, famous faces, games of heads and tails, and if you’re lucky, a local celebrity might make an appearance to ask some questions, too! Great for the whole family, and with a tasty bistro offering from Jaffa, Thursday trivia makes for an easy mid-week outing. A night off cooking and loads of laughs – you’re already winning.

The Builders Club, Wollongong

Sundays at 1pm + Tuesday and Wednesday nights

The Builders’ Sunday trivia is held in the Botanist Gin Bar, the largest gin bar in NSW, and has a chilled vibe. A mostly older crowd with some families also playing along. It’s a great way to end your weekend with a few drinks and some good, clean fun. The Builders Club offers a range of food options if you’re hungry, and a great selection of desserts! Trivia also runs here on Tuesday and Wednesday nights if you can’t make the Sunday session. ¡

Reviews Sally Dillon and Kate O’Mealley

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hey brew

MEET KIM AND TAMMY FROM TWO SISTERS GARAGE IN BULLI

How did Two Sisters come about?

We'd previously run a small catering business and were looking for a new adventure when we came across the old art supplies space for lease. We immediately saw the potential for an amazing courtyard cafe and from there we created Two Sisters.

How long have you been operating? Just over five years.

What is the best thing about your location? The best thing about our location is our beautiful, protected courtyard. A little oasis in the middle of beautiful Bulli village.

Tell us about your delicious menu –how do you create it? Our menu is a mix of staples and seasonal dishes and some grab and go healthy takeaway options. We have our crowd favourites like our Fancy Avo Toast, Nourish Bowls and Tasty Chicken Sandwiches and we update our menu seasonally.

What brand of coffee do you serve, and why? We serve The Little Marionette Sanchez blend. It's a crowdpleasing medium roast, and we love it!

What's the secret to a perfect brew? Love, timing and skilled, trained baristas who take care with every shot.

If you buy coffee from another spot in the Illawarra, where do you go? We're blessed in the Illawarra to have so many great cafes to choose from. We love supporting our fellow cafe owners on our days off. Our favourites include Moore Street General, Buck Hamblin, Finbox, Uncle Earl's, Lee & Me, Opus and Stokes Lane. ¡

“We love supporting our fellow cafe owners on our days off. ”

233 Princes Hwy, Bulli

Lee Tougher West Wollongong

meet a neighbour

How long have you lived in the Illawarra?

I was born here, but I’ve lived in Sydney for well over 20 years. We moved back in October 2021.

What brought you back to the area?

My father’s illness then passing during the last COVID lockdown accelerated our vague plans to one day return to Wollongong to live.

What do you love about living in the area?

Being close to family, catching up with old friends, the open spaces, and the beaches (of course). Finding new places to go in your old hometown has been fun.

Ideal start to the day?

The sun’s out, a coffee has been enjoyed, and everything goes smoothly for the school run and my start to work. On the weekends, coffee and quizzes in bed.

Favourite local restaurant?

We are still discovering what is on offer after being away for so long, but the Pickled Poet and Kneading Ruby are both great. Kiss and Dropping have great coffee. We definitely need to go out more! ¡

what's on calendar

email us at info@coalcoastmagazine.com to include any future events

coalcoastmagazine.com

@coalcoastmag coalcoastmag

WHILE WE’VE DONE OUR BEST TO ENSURE ALL TIMES AND EVENTS WERE CORRECT AT TIME OF PRINTING, SOME OF THESE EVENTS MAY CHANGE. CHECK WITH VENUES OR SCAN THE QR CODE FOR OUR FAVOURITE EVENTS!

March 02

03

ChaChi and The Sea of Tears, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm (until 4 March)

Get Together Festival, Scarborough Wombarra Bowlo (until 5 March)

Rob Snarski & Lindy Morrison, The Music Lounge, 8pm 04

'Planes Trains and Automobiles' at The Film Club, Coledale Community Hall, 7pm (first Saturday of each month) 05

Illawarra Women's Day of Dance + Culture, Edmund Rice College, 12-3pm 06

11

Kiama Jazz Festival, various venues (until 12 March)

Bodyjar, Waves Towradgi, 7pm

Steel City Strings – Worlds Connect, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm

15

17

18

Made From Scratch, The Music Lounge, 7.30pm

Aussie Comedy Legends, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm

St Patricks Day, Dicey Rileys

Roxee Horror's Talent Quest, Wollongong Town Hall, 8pm

Sculpture in the Garden, Wollongong Botanic Gardens (until 30 April)

22

Tiny Tuesdays, Early Start Discovery Space, 10am (until 7 April)

Movement Mondays, Early Start Discovery Space, 10am (until 7 April) 07

Richard Marx, Anita's Theatre, 7.30pm 08

Steve-O The Bucket List Tour, Wollongong Town Hall, 7pm

10 Last Voyage of the Gracie Anne, Phoenix Theatre, 8pm (until 19 March)

'Keep On Keepin' On' screening - Kiama Jazz opening night, Gerringong Town Hall

Rock n Vintage Roll Festival, Ryans Hotel

Thirroul

Hard Quiz Live – Hosted by Tom Gleeson, Wollongong Town Hall, 6.30pm

23

24

30

Choir Boy, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm (until 25 March)

Mia Wray - Stay Awake Tour, La La La's Wollongong, 8pm

'Connect With Your Divine Feminine' Retreat, Heart & Soul Care, Otford (until 26 March)

Optimal Stopping, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm (until 1 April) Scan

01 Writing Popular Fiction workshop, Coledale Community Hall, 10am-4.30pm 03

Music in the Morning – Spirit of the ANZAC, Wollongong Town Hall, 11am

08 Yours and Owls Lazy Mountain Festival, Berry Showground

Mary Coughlan, The Music Lounge, 8pm

09

11

13

15

Danny Bhoy – Now Is Not A Good Time, Wollongong Town Hall, 7pm

Merrigong Creativity Camp, Wollongong Town Hall, 9am – 3pm (until 14 April)

Urthboy + Dallas Woods, UOW UniBar, 6pm

Escabags Labyrinth Masquarade Ball, Campbelltown Catholic Club, 6pm

The Smashing Pumpkins 'The World Is A Vampire' Festival, Stuart Park North

Wollongong 20 Air Time, Wollongong Town Hall, 6.30pm (until 22 April)

21 Eishan Ensemble, The Music Lounge, 8pm 22

05

06

08

12

13

Melbourne International Comedy Festival

Roadshow, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm (until 6 May)

Ross Noble - Jibber Jabber Jamboree, Anita's Theatre, 8pm

Music in the Morning – Sentimental Journey, Wollongong Town Hall, 11am

The Turner Brown Band, The Music Lounge, 8pm

Dylan Moran – We Got This, Wollongong

Town Hall, 8pm

Mother's Day Local Maker Workshops, WorkLife Coledale (until 14 May)

Comic Gong Family Cosplay Day, Corrimal Library and Community Centre

19

Comic Gong Cosplay Ball, Wollongong

Town Hall

The Commitments Revue, Centro CBD, 8pm

20

Peoplecare Tri The Gong, Belmore Basin

Illawarra Food and Wine Festival, Kembla Grange Racecourse, 12pm (until 23 Apr) 23

Wollongong, 6am 27

Legendary Russell Morris & Band, Centro CBD, 8pm 28

Intimate Evening with Vince Jones, Centro CBD, 8pm

Dog Trumpet, The Music Lounge, 8pm 29

Lano & Woodley – Moby Dick, Wollongong Town Hall, 7.30pm

24

25

26

27

Running in The Shadows – The Australian Fleetwood Mac Show, Heritage Hotel Bulli, 6.30pm

Warren Miller's 'Daymaker', Gala Cinema Warrawong, 7pm

'Dreaming Inside Volume 11' Launch, Wollongong Art Gallery, 6pm

Darren & Olivia Coggan – Dear August Tour, The Music Lounge, 8pm

Sydney Writers’ Festival – Live and Local, The Music Lounge, 9am

the quiz

1. Name the two dark blue properties on the Wollongong version of Monopoly?

2. In which suburb did Streets Ice Cream originate?

3. Who is the compere of the afternoon program on ABC Illawarra?

4. Neil Reilly is the mayor of which local city?

5. Which township was also known as Red Point?

6. Former 500cc motorcycle champion Wayne Gardner is also known as “The Wollongong ---”?

7. Nan Tien Temple celebrates which religion?

8. Which Jimmy Barnes music video was partly filmed at the Steelworks?

9. In which year did the Mount Kembla Mine Disaster happen?

10. In which international cities do The University of Wollongong have campuses?

11. What is cynophobia?

12. Which animal is used on the Porsche logo?

13. Who was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize (in 1903)?

14. What is the name of the world's largest ocean?

15. What is the rarest M&M colour?

16. What was the first soft drink in space?

17. The biggest selling music single of all time is?

18. Which two countries have not missed one of the modern-day Olympics?

19. What's the fastest land animal?

20. What's the smallest country in the world?

Answers on page 4.

coalcoastmagazine.com @coalcoastmag

Koalas need trees. But sadly, under the LiberalNational Coalition land-clearing rates have tripled.

More and more developments are being approved in koala habitat, and native forest logging flattens an area 50 times the size of Sydney’s CBD every year. That’s why koalas are now endangered and risk extinction in NSW.

In response, conservationists are calling for protection of the Great Koala National Park. Both Labor and the Greens have committed to this crucial protection. Only the Liberal-National Coalition is missing in action for koalas.

Scan the QR code or go to nature.org.au/forests to sign our open letter calling on all candidates to step up for our forests this state election.

Authorised by J Mumford, Nature Conservation Council of NSW, Level 1, 79 Myrtle