Coffs Coast Focus i109 by Focus

Gurmesh Singh

October 2019 i109

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Welcome to the October issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS .

t’s our ninth birthday! What an incredible nine years it has been for Coffs Coast Focus. Our FOCUS family work tirelessly, flying the Focus flag each month and thanks to their mammoth efforts, a great community spirit and genuine interest in business owners on the Coffs Coast, that in your hands right now is one of our biggest editions ever produced! We love what we do, but it wouldn’t be possible without YOU, our dedicated readers. Thank you for continuing our journey with us. We would like to dedicate this edition to our contributors and advertisers - so, from the FOCUS team ... thank you so much for your support! Fashion, art, performance, cuisine and more. These are the elements that will be showcased at BOTANICA: An Evening in the Gardens. The evening will be packed with a variety of local creative and cultural talents, paired with a stunning venue. The purpose of the event is to raise funds for the

Heart and Soul Foundation. This foundation provides programmes that support vulnerable women who have been through violence and trauma allowing nourishment of heart, body and soul. Our vision for the October front cover was to showcase the amazing powerhouse women who are working hard to make sure this event is a huge success: introducing Jane Tavener, founder of Heart & Soul Foundation and Event Director; Lisa Daniel (The Design Cupboard) - Creative Director; Sarah Poole (One Fine Day) - Operations Manager; and Lindsay Russell (Peachy Thinking) - Marketing Manager. We have to share our appreciation for they styling, hair and makeup this month. Lauren Vestey and Kate Collins from Living Doll (hair styling), Carmel Kestles (makeup), Svetlana Burrows (styling) and the team from RSVP Bridal for lending us the gorgeous gowns featured. Inside this Edition RISE started in 2016 with an annual charity football match to raise awareness and funds for

local homeless and disadvantaged youth and after the success of these events, they have branched out to further help the local community. They have established a football academy and community outreach organisation that aims to provide all-inclusive social games, such as street soccer and walking football, and that also provides development of young players who may not necessarily be able to access expensive training programmes, while engaging them to help in their community outreach programmes. We spoke with Matt Snell about what they’re hoping to achieve. Andrew Williams has been playing and coaching basketball with the Coffs Harbour Suns for some time now, and this season he coached both the under 18s girls and under 18s boys teams, with the girls going right through to win the State Cup Championship! Final Say “Great things in business are never done by one person” - Steve Jobs.

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contents

Issue 109 - October 2019

focusinterviews

feature a special

WEDDING EXPERTS

Amy Shark. One of Australia’s most loved artists, Amy Shark is bringing her Aria awarding winning debut album Love Monster to all of her fans in regional Australia. In just over two years she has gone from moving 82 tickets in her home town of Brisbane to selling out arena filled shows all over the country.

16 Rise.

RISE started in 2016 with an annual charity football match to raise awareness and funds for local homeless and disadvantaged youth and after the success of these events, they have branched out to further help the local community.

Lindsay Russell The Palmetto.

the Usual

9. FROM THE ACHIVES with Kev Smith 14. WHAT’S ON for October

Lindsay Russell and her partner, Ed, have brought a little piece of the American South to the Coffs Coast with The Palmetto, a little food truck that’s all about great flavours, created with good quality local produce, to be shared amongst family and friends whilst having a bit of fun!

60 XBert.

Childhood friends Troy Brown, Aaron Wittman and Steven Ayers have created a business together, and their personalities and skill sets seem to complement each other perfectly. They have created an accounting add-on designed to reduce risk and save money, that any business can use. We got Troy to tell us all about it.

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Suspects

22. EAT local restaurants 56. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 59. EDUCATION with Nick Johnstone 72. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 78. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman 85. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss

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focusinterview.

ey Gurmesh. Tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast. My family settled in this area permanently around 1950. My father and grandfather have grown bananas and macadamias here since. When I finished school in the year 2000, I thought I’d leave and never come back. But with a little bit more maturity, I saw that there is no place like the Coffs Coast - especially to raise a family, so my wife and I moved back home in 2009. You have spent most of your life here on the Coffs Coast, but there was a time where you lived in the Eastern Suburbs of the big smoke to study. What did your time in Sydney teach you? Coming from a town of about 3,000 people, and a small regional city like Coffs, moving to Sydney was a huge shock to the system. Sydney is a 24 hour global city, and living in a college with students from all over the country (and a few from overseas) meant I got exposure to many different ways of life. I’m sure that living in Sydney and working in advertising after graduation made me a much more pragmatic, tolerant and open person - live and let live. What did you study down in Sydney, and what were you picturing your career might be at that point in time? I studied Industrial Design at UNSW and wanted to design cars. The degree is a mixture of pure design and art, engineering, science, and marketing - so it offers broad career prospects afterwards, because you learn about so many varied fields. I ended up in marketing and advertising and eventually put some of my

WE SAT DOWN WITH LOCAL MP GURMESH SINGH AND HAD A CHAT ABOUT HIS BACKGROUND AND HIS LIFE HERE ON THE COFFS COAST. design skills to use as a designer later on. found on the football field or on a When did you first become interested in mountain bike! Where did the love of politics? mountain biking come from? When I was at uni, I worked part-time at When I moved back here from Sydney, I was a newsagency and would read every paper working in Sawtell and took up road cycling. cover to cover nearly every day. This is when I But when I started working on the farm, it was developed an interest in harder to get on the politics. In 2015, I was road bike, so I bought appointed to a Ministerial myself a mountain bike Advisory Committee, and convinced a few friends The biggest thing I’ve learnt is this got me interested to do the same, and just how big this place is and in State Politics, more we started having some that there are so many specifically. social rides. great people doing great What made you decide Woolgoolga has some to move that way and things here on the Coffs great single-track only a get involved in politics few minutes ride from Coast. There are so many yourself? my house, so it was easy groups, organisations, and When Andrew Fraser to get out for an hour businesses working away behind announced his retirement after work. the scenes making a difference last year, a number of I haven’t been able in so many different ways. people encouraged me to to ride very much over run for preselection. Our the last year, though. youngest son was born Hopefully this summer right around that time, so I was initially a little I’ll be able to squeeze in some more rides. hesitant. But, I thought I’d give it a go - I didn’t You have spent a fair bit of time working want to live with the regret of not giving it a here on the Coffs Coast in the blueberry go. industry; can you tell us about your What have you learnt about the Coffs experience there? Coast and its community over the past Our family farm grows macadamia nuts year? and blueberries, and I was the chairman of The biggest thing I’ve learnt is just how big Oz Group Co-op - a 100% Australian Farmer this place is and that there are so many great owned co-op based in the old Bunnings people doing great things here on the Coffs building in South Coffs. The Co-op is quite a Coast. There are so many groups, organisations, large business (they will turn over $150m this and businesses working away behind the year) and it was a great experience writing the scenes making a difference in so many different constitution of the Co-op, building the team, ways. and working with some fantastic people along When you're not at work, you are often the way.

The industry is not without its issues, but I was very proud of my time there and the steps we took to clean up rogue operators. The industry is a big industry and is very important to the economy of the Coffs Coast and does far more good than it is given credit for. Can you tell us about what an average day is like for you? What’s a part of your daily routine you couldn’t go without? My day always starts with a double espresso - sometimes a triple, if the baby has had a rough night. I’m usually in the office about 7:30am to catch up on emails, and then every day is different from there. They’re usually a mix between meeting people in the office and heading out to see different groups, organisations, or businesses. We are in Sydney about 20 - 22 sitting weeks, and the average sitting day starts with me coming into Parliament House about 7am. Usually the first meeting is set for 8am. We will be in and out of the chamber all day depending on the schedule, but we can’t leave parliament house until the house rises - this can be any time between 7pm and after midnight. Being a politician is something that can take up a lot of your time. How do you find a balance between work, family life and social life? It’s an unfortunate fact of the job that it takes up a lot of time, and I have been very busy early in the term making sure I am available. And I haven’t been very good at striking a good work/life balance - but I’m hoping that as the weather warms up, and with daylight saving just around the corner, I’ll be able to take more time out for family and exercise. Thanks Gurmesh. Coffs Coast focus 7

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focus_archives

WITH KEV SMITH

Emerald Beach, just 20 km north of Coﬀs, is one of our most stunning towns. It seems to have the most idyllic lifestyle, but have you ever gone for a walk around its headland and discovered its history?

here are several memorials to folk who lost their lives due to two ships colliding back in 1886. MV Keilawarra and the Helen Nicoll somehow collided in the month of December 1886, and unfortunately 48 people lost their lives. The

Keilawarra was a fairly large vessel weighing in around 780 ton and at the time carrying passengers and freight up the coast when it collided with the Helen Nicoll. History reports say that it was a violent crash, and the boats sank very rapidly. As you walk the path down to little Shelley’s at Emerald, there’s a little stone memorial with a few stones around the

base giving thoughts to those who lost their lives; nothing more and nothing less - it’s in a sad state. In fact, there have been 14 ships that have sunk up and down off the Coffs Coast, even with the Solitary Island lighthouse in operation between 1851 and 1929 - some wrecks found and some still lost. After the inquest of the ship collision, it was decided to install a signal station on the headland at Emerald; this was to keep the lighthouse in direct contact with the mainland via a submarine cable back in 1887. The signal station was manned by a Mr Dammerel 24 hours a day and was “equiped” with a telescope, rain gauge, flags to signal and a tall mast. Mr Dammerel’s duties were to log ships that passed by, pass on messages and to keep appropriate

records; during the night morse code was through using a morse light. The tall pole (mast) was used to raise different flags to use as day signals and at the top, a wind vane was installed. Each morning a weather report would be sent to the Solitary Island lighthouse by Mr Dammerel’s daughters, who also would transmit family matters and news from the Herald magazine. The Dammerel family held the position of signal house for many years and helped in the rescue of many sea accidents until 1918, when the signal station closed down with the invention of the wireless radio. Today at Emerald headland, a small fenced off area gives recognition to the Dammerels who served their time here, where you can view an information board and a concrete base where the station once stood.

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focusinterview.

ONE OF AUSTR ALIA’S MOST LOVED ARTISTS, AMY SHARK IS BRINGING HER ARIA AWARD WINNING DEBUT ALBUM “LOVE MONSTER” TO ALL OF HER FANS IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA. IN JUST OVER TWO YEARS SHE HAS GONE FROM MOVING 82 TICKETS IN HER HOME TOWN OF BRISBANE TO SELLING OUT ARENA FILLED SHOWS ALL OVER THE COUNTRY.

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bought a nice house. It just shows that if you work really hard and put the time in and put music out that you’re proud of, everything can kind of turn around. Your powerhouse single, I Said Hi, was a song for those in the industry who said you'd never make it. What would you say to those people now? Laughs … You know, if you'd asked me that even three years ago, I probably would have said something really nasty and sly, just to put a bit more salt in the wound, but now I think I’ve really mellowed out - I'm not the bitch that I used to be. I think I’m at peace with it, and that’s a really mature way to look at it; I put that song out, and I think that's all I really needed to do. The power of song is just freedom of speech. I don't think I need to do any more. Those people who didn't believe in me and were actually super against what I was doing and went out of their way not to help me, I think they’re suffering enough. I'm a huge fan! Our office has gone to mush here, ow with six Aria awards under her belt, and I’m sure you’ve met many big time celebrities. including Album of the Year, Best Pop What's been your biggest fan girl moment? Release and Best Female Artist, to name a I’ve been such a big fan of Blink 182 for so long! I've few, Amy has proved that hard work and borrowed so many punk melodies and ideas, even to this perseverance certainly can pay off. day, as that is what trained me to write songs. One day I Your career has literally exploded over got a message from Mark Hoppus saying next time you’re the past two years in both Australia and the US. in LA, let's have coffee … I remember walking into this reEarly on you performed on the Jimmy Fallon and The ally boozy café in LA, and I walked over to Mark. He stood Late Late Show with James Corden (who obviously up and was super tall with a big handsome voice, just like have ridiculous audience numbers) - was that a I remember; everyone was looking at us, and it was so pinch yourself moment? Did you ever dream that crazy. He was just such a beautiful man! We were talking this could be happening? about Blink, and I was telling him about the studio I was No, absolutely not. I had well and truly called it quits. in that day, and he was like, “Oh yeah, we recorded a bit I'm not really a gypsy who lights candles and does Yoga. of Enema of the State there”. I had to say to him, “I'm I’m a realist, and I had quit so much that it was just weird so sorry; I’ve met lots of people and I can usually keep it how it all happened, and how quickly; it was like the together, but I'm having trouble right world wouldn’t let me not do this. now. I’m normally a lot cooler than Then before I knew it, I was playing this; I’m so grateful that you’re here, on James Corden. That was so early and I’m just having a second ...” and on, that I didn't really even have time totally outed myself. I was close to I’M REALLY AWARE OF to take it all in. It was just like: I’ve tears. WHERE FANS ARE. WHEN gotta do this, and I’ve got to do it You'll be touring and performing I DID THE BIG NATIONAL well. your breakout debut album, Love TOUR, I WAS SUPER AWARE As much as I was ready for it, as I’d Monster on your Regional AustraOF WHO HAD TRAVELLED had so many years in training leading lian Tour from October. What made TO COME TO THE BIG up to what could have been, it was you decide to tour regionally? CITIES. ALSO ONLINE, AS crazy that it did happen. I feel like I It's always been something I wanted MUCH AS I DON’T HAVE A was ready to do it by then, so it feels to do; it was just a case of finding the PRESENCE, I’M READING good. best time in my schedule. I'm really THE COMMENTS ... How does it feel to play at huge aware of where fans are. When I did sold out shows all over the the big national tour, I was super world? aware of who had travelled to come It feels great! Better than playing to to the big cities. Also online, as much as I don't have a four people. I still worry that the tours won’t sell out, and presence, I’m reading the comments. I just spent a couple I'm still petrified that people aren't going to come and be of years really honing in on that and the second we got interested to come. These are big rooms that I’m playing the team together, I knew I needed to do this before the at now. I'm a punish to myself. My whole team keep saysecond phase happens and I’m busy again. I want to learn ing, “Amy, you need to RELAX”. I'm forever telling people more about and see more of our country anyway, so I'm it's too big of a place, but I trust my whole team and they really excited - I think it's going to be really special. I've know what it's doing and know my fan base, so I'm just had so much support from media and radio for this tour enjoying it as much as possible. Of course, when I go on and fans, so it feels right. stage, that's the most enjoyable bit. What's next for you? Are you currently working on With this very public success, what has changed the new music? most for you in the past couple of years? So many things! I'm always working; I don't stop. I’m So many things, but they're probably just the little always thinking a good year ahead and trying to be very things. It was different at the start; I’m finding people well prepared. I don't want to give out too much, but it's actually know what my face looks like now, so anywhere going to be very exciting, and I’m looking forward to it. I go, I have to be on alert. Things are great, though; I just Thanks Amy.

focusinterview.

FAST FACTS WITH AMY... What’s playing on your phone? A crime podcast.

“It was like

the world wouldn’t let me not

Favourite food? Spaghetti bolognese, usually with a side of avocado. Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it. Favourite travel destination? Maui. Really good if you like pina coladas.

do this”.

Catch Amy Shark at C.ex Group Coffs. When Thursday 17th October. Time 6:45pm. Cost $59.90. Amy will be joined by special guests Sly Withers & Eleanor Jacks.

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focusinterview.

A n d r e w W i l l i a m s

Andrew Williams has been playing and coaching basketball with the Coﬀs Harbour Suns for some time now, and this season he coached both the under 18s girls and under 18s boys teams, with the girls going right through to win the State Cup Championship!

i Andrew. Can you tell us about your history with the Coffs Coast? My relationship with the Coffs Coast is a long one. I was born here in Coffs Harbour, then moved away when I was young to Canberra. I found myself moving back here 12 years ago; my family has always lived in the area. I love living here on the Coffs Coast, raising a beautiful family and running a business, Williams Timber. You are coaching the under 18s women’s basketball team; how long have you been coaching? I’ve coached this group of girls only for the last 10 months, but I have coached this particular age group in the past, a few seasons ago. There’s something about this age group I’ve always enjoyed coaching - not just the coaching basketball side of it, but helping develop young adults. When did you become interested in the game? Have you played yourself? I started playing basketball around the age of nine, watching NBA highlights on the TV on a Saturday morning. My mum bought my brother and I a basketball hoop the next Christmas, and I just fell in love with the game. I’ve played or been involved in basketball ever since, as a player or as a coach.

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I played junior basketball in Canberra at a the emotion and joy on the girls’ faces after high level and after returning to Coffs, I played the final buzzer had sounded will be something for Coffs Harbour Suns men’s team for six I’ll remember forever! And to go through the seasons. I captained the team to their first State season undefeated made it even more special! League championship in 2012, then hanging It was not only a memorable moment for the boots up, thinking I myself and the girls, but was done playing, I began for the parents as well. to coach, and after a few What was the seasons I found myself preparation like in back on the court for the lead up to the TO SEE THE EMOTION another two seasons with final game? AND JOY ON THE the Suns! Finishing up The preparation for GIRLS’ FACES AFTER playing last year, I put my me as a coach starts hand back up to coach from day one. We set THE FINAL BUZZER this season and found our goals high earlier HAD SOUNDED WILL myself coaching not only in the season, and that BE SOMETHING I’LL the 18s girls, but the 18s was to go through REMEMBER FOREVER! boys as well. undefeated and to win How long have the the State Cup. girls on your team been We worked hard playing together? every training session Some of these girls have been playing and went about learning and growing as a together since under 12s, and for some other team from every game along the way, all the girls this was only their second season playing way to the final. basketball. What does this mean for the team moving The Suns under 18s women’s team are the forward? State Cup Champions this year. Can you tell Sadly, for this team it’s over, with some girls us about what the experience of winning finishing up their junior rep basketball careers, was like for you and the girls on the team? some girls will move on to the seniors, and new As a player or coach, it’s what you dream of girls will come up from under 16s. winning a championship! What were some of the other highlights of It’s what you work for all season long; to see this season for you?

For me this season I’ve had a few highlights; winning the championship is obviously at the top, and sending out the three senior girls as champions was something special. Getting my boys’ team to the State Championship round I feel was a big achievement. And just seeing the kids grow week in and week out as players and as young adults gives me a lot of joy. Will you continue to coach next season? I’ve recently been selected to coach in a NSW development league called Dleague in Sydney next month, where they select the top 40 kids in the state for each age group and break them up into four teams and select a coach for each team - which is a nice way to end the season personally, to be recognised for the work you put in. I’ll continue to coach for Coffs Harbour Suns and help develop kids and grow the club and the sport of basketball here on the Coffs Coast. What are your hopes for the girls in the future? I hope they continue to play the game of basketball and can take what I have taught them to the next level or at any level they decide to play at, or even just in life! Setting goals - knowing what it takes and the hard work you have to put in, in order to achieve those goals. Thanks Andrew.

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focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

O C T O B E R

BUSKERS Festival After 18 years of putting fun and laughter on to the very streets of this fair city, the 2019 Coffs Harbour International Buskers & Comedy Festival enters its nineteenth year in 2019 and just like an eager teenager, is bursting at the seams with ideas, flavours and new energy. When October 1st until October 6th. More information www.coffsharbourbuskers.com

Jetty THEATRE

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Arrabeto Ensemble A mesmerising and highly dynamic journey of contemporary flamenco, with elements of classical, jazz, film soundtrack and folk music. Arrabeto Ensemble takes you on a highly dynamic journey. Plus, you’ll love the spectacular visual aspect added by virtuosic dancer Chachy Peñalver. When 6th October. Where Jetty Theatre, Coffs Harbour. Time 2pm. Tickets All tix $40; members $38.

Kate Toon is doing it all. And the question she’s most often asked is, how? Award winning businesswoman and Amazon best selling author Kate Toon will present to the BWN on how to get more done and overcome self-doubt. Come along and network with other like-minded women in business. When Thursday 3rd October. Where Opal Cove Resort. Time 7am to 9am. Info Coffs Coast BWN Facebook page.

Rotary

CARTOON AWARDS

Relax on the terrace and enjoy drink specials, happy hour, live music, cocktails, craft beer and fabulous food! When Every Sunday starting 6th October, 3:30 ‘til 7pm. Where Opal Cove Resort - Horizons Restaurant & Bar.

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DRAG QUEEN Show

We’re Out Loud, Black and Proud Drag Queen Show. Where C.ex Grand Auditorium. When Saturday 19th October. Tickets $75 VIP and $50. Dress Semi- Formal. Info (02) 6652 3888 or Lucas Craig 0423 477 267.

BWN Networking Event

SUNDAYS ON THE TERRACE at Opal Cove.

It’s that time of year again, for the annual Rotary Cartoon Awards at the National Cartoon Gallery at The Bunker Coffs Harbour. As always, there’s a great line-up of new works in the gallery, many at the hands of some of Australia’s best cartoonists. The Rotary Awards always offer something for everyone, with 195 works on the walls for 2019 in the only venue of its kind in Australia! When From 7th September until 17th November, 10am - 4pm. Where The National Cartoon Gallery, 1 John Champion Drive, Coffs Harbour. Cost $6 for adults, under 16 $4, Friends of the Gallery and under five are free. More information Ph: 02 6651 7343.

Coffs Coast

BEER FESTIVAL

Join us at the Toormina Hotel for a day of beer, cider, wine and food at our annual Coffs Coast Beer Fest. There will be local breweries, craft beer, cider and awesome street food vendors. Live music and kids entertainment. Free Entry When 20th October. Where Toormina Hotel. Time 11am to 8pm.

Pink Silks TRUST

PST is a local registered charity that helps ALL women of the Coffs Coast, and it’s heading for the $1 Million milestone.

veryone knows the Pink Silks Trust charity always hold four great events a year - lots of fun and totally enjoyable ... with the aim of making a difference for all local women in our community. FOCUS had a chat with Chair and Co-founder Tanya Johnson, to find out more …

Recently the PST held their fourth annual Tradies & Ladies night at the Hoey Moey and raised a huge $36,000 for more state-of-theart theatre equipment for our local hospital. The event theme is around our local tradies donating products and services, as their show of support to our local women undergoing health issues. There were 50 businesses involved, and

over 155 people who attended a fun night of We have raised over $900,000 because we dancing and excitement, whilst being part of don’t help a few women, but PST helps ALL the live auction, raffle and lucky door prizes. women who need support, equipment and The goal of the night was to raise $70,000 services. We ensure each allocation of funds for more essential equipment for the local will directly help hundreds, and most often, Emergency and Obstetrics/Gynaecology thousands of local women over many years.” departments. One is assisting with equipment The Pink Silks Trust has two more events in for the establishment of a new service for January 2020 to help achieve the $1 Million cervical cancer biopsies and cervical cancer milestone, starting with PST Golf Day on screening in the area. A specific examination January 10 and the 14th PST Ladies Charity bed, stool and equipment trays are required Race Day on 12th January 2020. Every year for the new service to the Golf Day is a sell commence doing these out, so get in early and procedures. The cost book a team for a great normally associated for day out at the Coffs these examinations in Harbour Golf Club. The The Pink Silks Trust is private rooms can be Race Day is their biggest on the verge of raising a significant barrier for event of the year, is a $1 Million for all the women on the Coffs sea of pink in support women on the Coffs Coast. of the PST charity and a Coast challenged by The Pink Silks Trust is fantastic Sunday out for cancer, disabilities, on the verge of raising all the family. chronic or acute illness. $1 Million for all the Anyone who would women on the Coffs like to be involved Coast challenged by in the events or to cancer, disabilities, help PST reach their chronic or acute illness. PST allocates 90% of milestone can either contact them through info@pinksilks.com.au or go to their funds directly to the community and 10% for GoFundMe page https://www.gofundme. research, which will help local women in the com/f/tradiesandladiescharity-2019 to raise future with a cure or preventative measure. the outstanding amount of the $70,000 for Chair and Co-founder Tanya Johnson said, the Tradies & Ladies beneficiaries. “We’re so grateful for the generosity of this Anyone wanting to be a beneficiary, please community’s businesses and individuals, visit the website www.pinksilks.com.au that believe in and support the work we do.

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RISE STARTED IN 2016 WITH AN ANNUAL CHARITY FOOTBALL MATCH TO RAISE AWARENESS AND FUNDS FOR LOCAL HOMELESS AND DISADVANTAGED YOUTH AND AFTER THE SUCCESS OF THESE EVENTS, THEY HAVE BR ANCHED OUT TO FURTHER HELP THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

hey have established a football academy and community outreach organisation that aims to provide all-inclusive social games such as Street Soccer and Walking Football, and that also provides development of young players who may not necessarily be able to access expensive training programs, while engaging them to help in their community outreach programs. We spoke to Matt Snell about the programmes and what they’re hoping to achieve. Hi Matt. What is RISE, where did it all begin, and what's it all about? RISE - Coffs Harbour Incorporated (“RISE”) is a not-for profit incorporated charitable association recently created by locals for the benefit entirely of our local community. The original concept was tabled almost 20 years ago in discussions with a very dear friend of 16 Coffs Coast focus

mine, John Reynolds, and in Australia to combine THE PRIMARY AIM OF further encouraged by community outreach THE RISE FOOTBALL two other dear friends, inclusive programmes SQUADS WILL BE Cliff Guy and Sandi with football, to enrich TO PRODUCE WELL Salidu, who all still inspire the quality of life for any BALANCED, RESILIENT, me to this day with their individual who engages COMMUNITY-MINDED selfless, generous spirit. with RISE. YOUNG ADULTS. In 2016 we conducted Unlike a lot of charities, our first annual charity RISE focuses solely on football match, played by the local Coffs Coast mostly retired footballers, community. How much to raise awareness and much needed funds for has been raised so far, and how has it our local homeless youth. All funds are donated helped our community? entirely to the local Wesley Youth Mission Yes, that is true; our constitution states that Service, to be used for developing life changing we focus on our local community stretching programmes and support for local homeless from Macksville in the south, Dorrigo in the west youth and, on the back of this success, we and Corindi in the north but, we are hopeful of established RISE, a year round football academy reaching out beyond those boundaries as the and community outreach organisation. programmes develop. The RISE model will be the first of its kind However, we are very mindful that as we

develop our programmes, they must have enough substance to be a long term asset for our local community and ensure there are tangible positive outcomes for all involved. Our four annual charity football matches have raised over $80,000 to date, and as a direct result of these funds raised, we have achieved wonderful outcomes - such as enabling 22 young local disadvantaged adults to obtain their driver’s licence to greatly boost their job prospects; we have assisted 30 young local people transition from crisis accommodation to independent living by purchasing furniture, whitegoods and kitchen appliances; and we have also provided at least 50 crisis packs at Christmas time, providing much needed personal care items for local disadvantaged youth. Through RISE, an opportunity has arisen for an Australian-first free academy, which will

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not only aid footballers looking to pursue a career in the sport, but others who may only enjoy the fun of the game. How is this achieved, and how would someone enrol in the academy? RISE is unique, for the simple fact that we make it accessible to all members of our community, able bodied or not so able bodied; our core is ensuring that everyone in our community is included. Our initial facility, generously provided by Key Employment, is located behind Key Employment (the old Catholic Club) 61 West High Street, Coffs Harbour and caters for the very popular street soccer and walking football games, plus other tailored games/programmes we are developing for clients of local NDIS Services, local schools and sporting bodies. We regularly publish our “open to the local community sessions”, which are great fun for anyone to come down and join in, and other scheduled events on our website: risecoffsharbour.org We will start reviewing nominations for squad players before Christmas this year, and the details for nominating for enrolment will be detailed on our website soon. Earlier this year, we visited the United Kingdom to establish mutually beneficial relationships with world renowned football clubs Glasgow Rangers and Liverpool, together with the inspirational Kinetic Football Academy in Croydon, London, who have all enthusiastically endorsed our model to open a pathway for all of our respective participants to be involved in regular site visits to each other’s facilities, to share ideas and experiences about how community and football can engage and positively change lives. What is expected of someone and families who enrol in the academy? RISE will be open to all socio-economic,

cultural and ethnic groups, and over the EACH MOU WILL BE coming years we will not only football activities, develop and sustain at but a wide range of lifeCAREFULLY DRAFTED least 12 football squads, skills, educational and BY RISE SPECIFIC six male and six female outdoor leisure activities TO THE INDIVIDUAL squads aged between at no expense to them. In CIRCUMSTANCES AND 12 to 17 years of age. As return, under the terms BACKGROUND OF well as all squad players of their individual MOU, THE SQUAD PLAYER refining their football skills each squad player will AND THEIR FAMILY. under the supervision of commit to an annual our Technical Director, minimum of 26 hours’ Gary Phillips, the primary volunteer assistance/ aim of the RISE football engagement in our squads will be to produce well balanced, community outreach programmes, working resilient, community-minded young adults. Rise closely with organisations such as Wesley, Meals will support and guide the social awareness and on Wheels, Legacy and the like. Likewise, their responsibilities of our participants as they move parents, families and carers will also commit into adulthood, while learning to engage with to an annual minimum of 52 hours’ volunteer their local community. assistance/engagement collectively in our It is well documented that young people who community outreach programmes. We will have early involvement helping their community provide one on one mentoring and guidance to develop an altruistic trait to continue to do so all of our squad players and their families/carers throughout their lives. Every squad player who as per their individual MOUs. is nominated and then selected by RISE to join Why is this different from other academies the programme will need to review and consider out there? acceptance by them, together with their Well, probably most importantly, our football parents or carers, of the terms and conditions academy is open and available to all young of a personalised RISE “Memorandum of members of our local community, regardless Understanding” (“MOU”) or “Life Journey of their background, at no monetary expense Programme”. Each MOU will be carefully drafted provided they accept the terms of their personal by RISE specific to the individual circumstances MOU and actively participate in our community and background of the squad player and their outreach programmes. We also do not sell family. This will ensure that we do not set up any dreams; less than 1% of the football playing individual player for failure with an unreasonable population across the world make a living out or unachievable MOU, so there will be no of playing professional football, so we develop stringent standard precedent form MOU for all. realistic goals for all of our players to ensure, The RISE academy isn't solely about in particular, that their mental health, together football. What sort of training and life with their physical wellbeing, remains their most experience will someone get from the important priority. academy? Community is the heart of RISE. In what Every squad player at RISE will participate in ways are you getting the community

involved? At RISE, the common link is football, but the binding principle is community. As such, RISE will conduct a range of community focused activities and programmes aimed at promoting physical and mental wellbeing - especially to those within our community who for whatever reason find it difficult to participate in conventional, mainstream community or sports activities. At RISE we have developed street soccer and walking football programmes to be all-inclusive, open to all members of our local community. Street soccer is an incredibly successful global phenomena and is normally a small sided game aimed at quickly improving your football skills. Walking football is a very low impact activity normally aimed at the less mobile and less ablebodied amongst us who are up for an organised kick-around at a manageable, friendly pace or, any member of our community who would just like regular social, friendly engagement. We are also aware that there are many community members in our region who are geographically more isolated, but who would enjoy and benefit from our activities, so we will be holding outreach football clinics and street soccer/walking football events at more remote schools and playing fields as our resources permit. What can our community do to get on board and help? With the assistance and participation of local community members and businesses, RISE can continue to develop life changing programmes for the youth and less fortunate of our community. If you wish to volunteer or make a kind donation, just contact Matt on: 0405 386 165 or email: matt@risecoffsharbour.org Thanks Matt.

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WITH SAM DAWSON OF PFLAG COFFS COAST

Anabell Thoener is our local representative for ACON ... What is ACON, I hear you ask, and what does ACON do? We sat down with Anabell to ﬁnd out more.

Anabell Thoener ACON

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nabell, what is your role at ACON, and what type of organisation is ACON? ACON is a community based health promotion organisation specialising in community health, inclusion and HIV responses for people of diverse sexualities and genders. My role at ACON is Health Promotion Outreach Officer. ACON’s head office is in Sydney; however, I’m based in Coffs Harbour working part-time, and I cover the area from Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie. I’ve been working with ACON for 10 years now, and it’s been an incredible journey. Do you find this service is well utilised and helpful to the LGBTIQ community? Yes, I think it is. In regional areas we generally have a lack of LGBTIQ specific services, so I get a lot of people contacting me for all sorts of reasons, including things like social isolation, for information related to HIV and LGBTIQ health, for referrals to other appropriate and inclusive services, and for training. I also try to remain connected with as many local community groups and events as possible, because while we may not have the number of services that the bigger city areas do, we certainly have some amazing community heroes out there doing some fabulous things! What services does ACON offer? Is education a big part of your role? ACON has a wide range of programmes and campaigns, including programmes on HIV support,

LGBTQ sexual health, mental health, domestic violence, alcohol and other drugs, ageing, and training and consulting. In my role as a Health Promotion Officer, education and health promotion certainly plays a big role. Education is essential for community members, allies and service providers. I attend a lot of both community events and mainstream events carrying out HIV and general LGBTI health promotion, and we also do a lot of training and in-services with other organisations, to assist in them becoming more LGBTI inclusive and friendly. I think that this is particularly important in regional areas, where we may not have many LGBTI specific services available. Many members of the LGBTQ community and those with HIV still face discrimination in different forms, and this in turn can significantly impact their overall health and wellbeing. In the LGBTI community we see disproportionally high numbers of depression, anxiety and suicide attempts when compared with the general population. Hopefully with ongoing training, education and support, this will continue to improve and people with HIV and the LGBTI community as a whole can go on to lead the fabulous lives that they deserve to live! How can people get in touch? People can get in touch by email: athoener@ acon.org.au or phone (02) 6651 6017 or 0409 680 836. ACON also has a great website with heaps of information on it, which people can access at www.acon.org.au

Love & Kisses It’s official - the GAMES NIGHT is back! No screens, just faceto-face fun and laughter. Love & Kisses has a great range of new and different games for all ages. For a blast from the past there’s Tiddlywinks, approved by England’s Tiddlywinks Society from Oxford University. You’ll even find the famous “Bicycle” brand of playing cards, as used by magicians worldwide.

n o i t a l ratu

Cong

3 Bears Cottage

We are pleased to annouce that 3 Bears Cottage EES has been selected as a finalist in the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards 2019. 3 Bears have been recognised as finalists in the following categories: Team Excellence Award - Regional Large Service Excellence in Food & Menu Design Excellence in Outdoor Learning Environment Inclusivity Practices Program Excellence Children's Wellbeing & Health Program Excellence Family Involvement Program Excellence Environmental Pogram Excellence Education Program Excellence - Regional Service Large Private Regional Service

The little BEE HOUSES you saw in last month’s FOCUS sold out in two weeks, but Judy has managed to get some more - and they’re selling just as fast, so hurry if you’d like one for your garden or for a Christmas gift. And also back - the once-a-year special selection of figurines - DISNEY COLLECTABLES by JIM SHORE. Most are about half the regular retail price. There are some gorgeous Mickeys and Minnies, but do check out the Seven Dwarves on the bridge - it’s musical too. Judy says her favourite thing right now is listening to children’s comments when they see them all in the window. In store this week: Lang calendars, Moleskine diaries, new leather journals and new musical jewellery boxes for little girls. Christmas treasures are arriving daily and will all be on display at the end of October.

The winners of the Excellence in Early Childhood Education Awards 2019 will be announced at the Presentation Dinner at the Shangri-La Hotel Sydney on Saturday 26th October 2019.

Open 52 weeks 7.30am - 6pm From the ages of 0 - 6 years

6652 5656

EmaiL - 3bearscottage @ live.com.au 11 Scarba Street, Coffs harbour

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Pink Ladies HelenMears The Pink Ladies are a passionate and dedicated group of volunteers at Coffs Harbour Base Hospital who run the coffee shop, gift shop and treat carts. Helen Mears is the President of the Pink Ladies and has given 40 years of service to the hospital. The funds raised go directly back into the hospital, to provide equipment where it is needed.

i Helen. Can you tell us about your connection with the Coffs Coast and the community here? I’ve lived in Coffs Harbour for the past 46 years, moving here from Parkes via Broken Hill and Cronulla. My husband managed OPSM stores, which brought us to Coffs when our children were quite young. We feel lucky to have seen our family grow up in this beautiful part of the world, and we feel privileged to call the Coffs Coast home. Can you tell us about who the Pink Ladies are and what they do? The Pink Ladies are volunteers who run the coffee shop at the hospital, the gift shop, and who take the treats and newspaper trolley around to patients every day. We also take care of the flowers delivered to patients. We give the hospital about 80,000 volunteer hours each year. The profits from the coffee shop and the gift shop are donated straight back to the hospital in the form of equipment, such as medical monitoring equipment, patient mobility equipment, birthing beds, treatment chairs and highly specialised items for the operating theatres. Last year our fundraising efforts resulted in $167,000 worth of equipment being donated, which wouldn’t have happened without the community and hospital staff supporting our café and gift shop. Since 2001, that support has helped us raise well over $2 million for our hospital. What is your role with the Pink Ladies, and what sort of tasks do you do? As the group’s President, I do a bit of everything - from working on the trolley to working in the coffee shop and gift shop. In the coffee shop, I work on the till. In the gift shop I serve customers, make sure stock is available, do the purchasing and work with the volunteers to ensure we have the handmade craft items that visitors like to buy. I’m very grateful for the community donations to the gift shop, as this is a great help with our fundraising efforts. I also work with our volunteers and staff to assess funding requests for equipment upgrades, emergency replacement of equipment and speciality devices. When vacancies appear on the volunteers’ roster, I step in to fill them and help plan our fundraising stalls, such as the Valentine’s Day stall and health promotion stalls at the hospital, which raise public awareness for 20 Coffs Coast focus

events such as Falls Prevention Week and Brain Injury Week. How did it all start? Did the idea originate here in Coffs? The United Hospital Auxiliaries of NSW has about 190 branches, including Coffs. The organisation started in 1933 by women’s activist and Red Cross administrator Eleanor McKinnon OBE, as a way to support the needs of health facilities throughout NSW. All money raised by each branch stays in their community. The Coffs branch has been around for a long time, serving at the old base hospital in Victoria Street, where our first coffee shop started in the old social club rooms. How long have you been volunteering, and how did you get We give the hospital I just enjoy meeting patients and visitors. involved? about 80,000 volunteer I love talking to them and doing anything I started volunteering in Girl Guides hours each year. The I can to make their hospital stay more when our children were little, then profits from the coffee comfortable. A lot of friendships have been volunteered in school canteens at Orara shop and the gift shop formed over the years with visitors and staff, and Jetty High schools, and Narranga and are donated straight and I have the Pink Ladies to thank for that. St Augustine’s Primary schools … basically back to the hospital in Why do you think it is important to wherever the children were. A friend the form of equipment. continue providing this service? talked me into volunteering as a Pink Lady A lot of patients simply don’t have at Coffs Harbour hospital back in 1979. anyone to buy little treats for them, or have Yes, it’s been 40 years - 27 of which I visitors because their families live elsewhere. have served as branch president, but I Contact with someone who is friendly volunteer because I absolutely love it. makes a big difference to these patients. They can always get a How has the hospital and what you do changed over the friendly smile from our Pink Ladies and enjoy a chat. time you’ve been a part of the Pink Ladies? How do people go about volunteering or getting involved? The hospital has changed enormously, not only in its location, We are always ready to welcome new members. It’s a big but its sheer size, the number of staff, the number and range hospital with lots of patients, which means we need lots of of specialities and even the size of the coffee shop. I remember members. There’s opportunities to volunteer directly with patients, at the old hospital, I used to get excited about the day’s takings in the coffee shop, gift shop and on other fundraising initiatives. reaching $50. Now we’re taking about $150,000 every year. The Any age, men and women … everyone is welcome. I’d love to new expansion will be the next exciting chapter for the hospital, hear from anyone who wants to make a difference. and for the Pink Ladies with our new coffee shop to have much The best way to find out more is to give me a call on 6652 more room for customers, as well as a bigger and better food 2827. If I’m not available, leave a message. I will definitely get preparation area for the volunteers. We’re all very excited. back to you. What do you find most enjoyable or rewarding about Thanks Helen. volunteering?

CFS Travel The Globetrotting Specialists Cruise specialists CFS Travel in Park Beach Plaza are official travel agents and long time members of CLIA “Cruise Line International Association”. We would like to introduce a relative newcomer to Australian waters. Travellers everywhere are falling in love with Cruise and Maritime Voyages and the line’s intimate, home away from home style of cruising. In December, CMV will bring their newest ship, the 1,220 guest Vasco da Gama to Sydney for the first time, treating guests to enriching new destinations and old favourites along the west and southern coasts. Further afield, Cruise and Maritime Voyages visit over 280 destinations around the world, each voyage offering CMV’s traditional cruise experience, signature standard of attentive service and exceptional value. So, it’s no wonder that guests wanting to explore some of the world’s most remote and iconic destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America are choosing to do it with CMV. “We have seen a resurgence in travellers wanting

to experience the romance of a classic grand ocean voyage,” says Dean Brazier, Managing Director of CMV Australia. “With more travellers wanting to visit exotic destinations that are hard to reach by air or by road, our traditional, boutique ships give guests access to smaller ports and are perfect for journeying around the world in comfort and safety.” Visiting more than 110 destinations in Europe alone though, guests have a plethora of itineraries to choose from, including voyages to Iceland, Greenland, the Baltic Cities, the Norwegian Fjords, British Isles and the Faroes. And with voyages departing from the UK year round, their Northern Lights cruises have become a guest favourite. So whether you are looking to stay close to home or venture a little further, there has never been a better time to rediscover the golden era of cruising and explore the world with Cruise and Maritime Voyages. Call the girls at CFS Travel on 6652 6555, or call in store for a brochure now!

Harcourts Real Estate Coffs Harbour Harcourts Real Estate Coffs Harbour is expanding the team! Over the past 19 years, Donna Tozer has been locally well known for her expertise in conveyancing and has now moved into real estate with her partner, Shane Hessenberger, as a business owner of Harcourts Coffs Harbour. Donna’s role will be to grow the business to the next phase and lead the sales team over the next 12 months by implementing Harcourts’ methods and innovation. The transition will provide the team at Harcourts with further experience and skills not readily available in real estate offices across the Coffs Coast. Donna’s extensive background knowledge of what is needed to be addressed on all property transactions, and behind the scenes indepth workings on how to keep a deal together with the exchange and settlement of property

once the sales advice has been issued by real estate agents is a major drawcard for the clients of Harcourts right now and in the future. Donna’s in-depth experience will ensure Harcourts clients have the expert advice from the start, from listing their property, to issuing a sales advice, to a successful seamless settlement for our clients. Harcourts Coffs Harbour has also welcomed Gabrielle Parker as a sales and leasing consultant. Gabrielle has previously worked with Donna in her successful conveyancing business and is well known locally for her work ethic and attention to detail. Harcourts Real Estate network covers over 900 offices in nine countries throughout the world and strongly supports the White Ribbon Charity to stop violence against women.

Meet the team at

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Suite 1-15 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour Jetty NSW 2450 02 6600 1688

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Coffs Coast focus 21

Chilli and Lime Squid from Plantation Hotel.

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We spoke to ERIC MABILIN ABOUT HIS BACKGROUND, HIS PASSION FOR COOKING AND DELICIOUS FOOD, and his new restaurant, Pig & Khai.

i Eric. How did you come to be living on the Coffs Coast, and why did you choose this area? I came to be living on the Coffs Coast because I got a job offer from a company in Coffs Harbour - the C.ex Club. Coffs was not actually my choice, but I fell in love with Coffs when I got here. When did you first get into cooking? Since I was a kid, I’ve had an interest in cooking. My grandma influenced me a lot, as she loved cooking. I would always watch her every time she cooked. When I was at uni, I had my first part-time job at Burger King as kitchen staff. That built an even stronger interest in working in the kitchen. What made you decide to turn cooking into a career? Have you worked in the industry for a long time? I took up psychology at uni. After doing the on-the-job training in a pre-employment testing agency, I got bored and didn’t like what I was doing. I decided to go to culinary school, as my heart was telling me that I really wanted to cook. And, everything started there. I have been working in the kitchen since 2004, so I have been working in the kitchen now for about 15 years. You worked on a cruise ship for some time; how did that come about? Yes, I worked on a cruise ship for about six years. Some of my friends at that time were working on the ship, and they encouraged me to work there too. I applied and got the job in

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MY GRANDMA INFLUENCED ME A LOT, AS SHE LOVED COOKING. I WOULD ALWAYS WATCH HER EVERY TIME SHE COOKED.

the kitchen, and I really enjoyed it. What was it like being away from home for extended periods of time? Working away from home was the downside of working on a cruise ship. You visit all different parts of the world for free and receive a good pay; however, there were times you would feel very homesick. You miss your family and miss a lot of events. But, that is what I chose to do; I would just focus on the positive side of it and always look forward to the day I got to see my family again. And the other positive thing I got out of working on the ship was that it was on the ship that I met my wife! What did you learn from your experience of working on the ship? I learned so much on the ship. Having visited different countries on most continents of the world: USA, Europe, Canada etc., I learned about their traditions and culture, and it gave me a broader understanding of their cuisine. When I had time to eat out, I would try their specialties in the local restaurants. Also, since we had guests from all different parts of the world, I would learn how to cook their dishes, because it was part of our menu on board. Working and being friends with different nationalities, I gained a deeper understanding of their way of cooking - like their taste preferenc-

es. I would say I am very lucky and privileged to have gained these experiences and learning from my time on the ship. You have recently opened a restaurant here in Coffs. How would you describe your style of food? I am very happy to have the chance to open a Filipino Restaurant, which is called Pig & Khai, here in Coffs. It’s a fast, casual type of restaurant, dine in and take away. I would say it is Filipino comfort food. I mainly would like to introduce the people of Coffs to what Filipino food is, as it is already very popular in the US, and I want the Australian people to know Filipino cuisine as well. Our food is very rich in taste. You’ll find the typically sweet, salty and sour ingredients to be accommodating for nearly every palate. The style of food we make is a mixture of Spanish, Malaysian, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and American influences. Can you tell us about where the name comes from? Pig & Khai. We chose to use Pig, as it started from the idea of the famous whole roasted pig, which is popular in the Philippines. Every time there is a big gathering, it can be a family or town feast, whole roasted pig is always looked forward to being on the table. Pork is also a favourite meat in every dish. Khai is a word with

M a b i l i n

a lot of meanings. It means “family” in Kiwi and “to eat” in Tongan and Indian. So, we chose Pig & Khai, as we would like to promote the idea of gathering, family and food, as this business is being run and managed solely by my family. How have you found the process of opening your own business? What has the response been like? We know that in every business it’s always not easy at the start - especially as we are trying to introduce something new and different to the people of Coffs Harbour. We do not have proper advertising, except Facebook and our take away menu outside the restaurant. It’s advertising mainly dependent on word of mouth. We are surprised and very happy about how the people in Coffs have responded. Our customers are increasing as the weeks go by, and we have now established repeat customers. We have met new friends and learned from their feedback, which is the reason why we keep on improving and giving the best flavours and service we can. What is your personal favourite dish and why? My favourite dish is the Sizzling Pork Sisig, which is one of our “Favourites” on the menu. “Sisig” means to snack on. It is a delicious medley of crunchy and velvety soft pork bits, onion, chilli peppers tossed in tangy calamansi; it’s full of flavours. Sisig, as the late Anthony Bourdain says, “will win your heart”. Thanks Eric. Coffs Coast focus 23

focus_contributor

W I T H S H E R E E J E F F R E Y F R O M L E O N E L L A PA S TA

of The

pink anonyMe Right on the button of spring, Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty strip has lined up a delicious new cocktail that will surely get you into the mood for sunshine and lazy evenings. Their Pink Anonyme is a perfect blend of fresh grapefruit juice, elderflower liqueur, vodka, fresh lemon juice and thyme. Its perfect balance of subtle sweetness and a slightly tart bite tastes exactly like springtime should and will have you craving more at every sip!

with Madonna Bannerman from Two Tails Wines

wine month of the

illard Blanc is a hybrid grape that was one of the most planted varieties in 1960s France. Since then, plantings of the grape, a Seibel 6905 x Seibel 6468 crossing, have greatly declined in Europe, and it is now best known as a workhorse white-wine grape in the United States.

The flavours of Villard Blanc are vaguely similar to Sauvignon Blanc, minus the intensity and razor-sharp focus that the best Sauvignons are capable of delivering. At best, Villard Blanc shows grapefruit-like acidity, with a touch of fresh grass. Villard Blanc is grown on site and sold at our Cellar Door at Nana Glen’s Two Tails Wines. Food matches for Villard Blanc include:

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Garlic

prawn Linguine Pasta Ingredients Serves 4-5

VILLARD BLANC

Villard Blanc’s key attribute is its high yields. In days gone by, the sheer volume of fruit it is capable of producing made it and its cousin Villard Noir very popular, but it is now overlooked in today’s quality-focused consumer environment.

Creamy

• Grilled shrimps • Rollmops (pickled herring) • White asparagus risotto Perfect with family and friends at a BBQ, or sit back and unwind after a hard day with this lush and delicious white wine. COST: $35. AVAILABLE: Two Tails Winery Cellar Door 963 Orara Way, Nana Glen, NSW. Online at www.twotailswines.com.au or IGA Liquor Store, Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour. Phone: (02) 6654 3633. Email: admin@twotailswines.com.au

500 g linguine fresh pasta 3 tsp olive oil 24 green prawns (fresh or frozen, peeled) 6 cloves garlic, minced ½ medium brown onion, finely diced ½ cup dry white wine 600 ml thickened cream 12 Roma mini tomatoes Handful fresh rocket ¼ cup grated parmesan Salt and pepper Parmesan cheese to serve

Method Heat oil in fry pan. Add onion, cook until softened, then add garlic - do not let burn. After 1 - 2 minutes, add white wine and simmer for 5 minutes, until liquid has reduced. Bring a pot of salted water to the boil. Add the cream to the reduced wine and simmer for a further 2 minutes, stirring regularly. Once the cream starts to thicken, reduce heat slightly and add the prawns and tomatoes. Salt and pepper to taste. Add fresh pasta linguine to the boiling water, stirring occasionally. Cook for approx. 5 minutes; drain. When the prawns are cooked through, add the fresh rocket and parmesan. Turn off heat. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, and use tongs to toss and serve. Top with grated parmesan and fresh rocket on the side.

Coffs Harbourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite steakhouse kitchen is back with a refreshed coastal feel, revamped menu and view!

Ribeye Rooftop Bar & Kitchen is an 18+ outlet

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focusinterview.

l i n d s ay r u s s e l l

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focusinterview.

LINDSAY RUSSELL AND HER PARTNER, ED, HAVE BROUGHT A LITTLE PIECE OF THE AMERICAN SOUTH TO THE COFFS COAST WITH THE PALMETTO, A LITTLE FOOD TRUCK THAT’S ALL ABOUT GREAT FLAVOURS, CREATED WITH GOOD QUALITY LOCAL PRODUCE, TO BE SHARED AMONGST FAMILY AND FRIENDS - WHILST HAVING A BIT OF FUN!

i Lindsay. Can you tell us about your personal history here on the Coffs Coast? Ed grew up coming to the Coffs Coast on holiday, ever since he was a kid. He is originally from the Mornington Peninsula, so would escape the cold winters with his family. When we decided to move to Australia from Vietnam, we felt right at home here in the sunshine. We have been living in Sawtell for two and a half years and couldn’t be happier. It’s pretty much paradise! Plus, the community has welcomed us with open arms, which is nice. The Palmetto is a unique food truck that you started with your partner, Ed. Can you tell us about how you guys met? We actually met in Vietnam. I was working in Hoi An as the marketing director for a vintage Vespa tour company. Ed was doing a motorbike trip throughout Vietnam and ended up in Hoi An midway. It sounds cheesy, but it was love at first sight. We lived in Vietnam for almost a year together, before deciding to make the move Down Under. We pit stopped for a visit to my hometown in South Carolina on the way, where Ed had a second love at first sight Southern food. I showed him all of my favourite restaurants and diners, and ideas for bringing the cuisine back to Australia started there. Have you both always had a love of food and cooking? I grew up cooking, so it’s always been a passion for me. Even at a very young age, I would binge on cooking shows and make feasts for my family. My dad was a pretty amazing cook, so taught me a lot about flavours, cuisines and instilled the value of using local produce. I’ll always remember those trips to Belue’s, the local greengrocer in my town. This was really becoming rare at the time, with chain

supermarkets dominating What were the biggest WE ALSO FELT THAT in the USA. challenges you faced THE COFFS COAST I was also lucky enough in renovating the truck WAS IN NEED OF to work on two famous ready for food service? SOME AUTHENTIC food trucks in Charleston, Our biggest challenge SOUTHERN COOKIN’ South Carolina throughout was managing the small THAT HIGHLIGHTED university - right when the space. It was hard to THE INCREDIBLE “food truck boom” hit. find tiny appliances that LOCAL PRODUCE. Ed’s always had a would still let us cook on passion for eating, but a large scale. We were his passion for cooking on a tight budget too, so is a newfound one. that made things tricky. He’s quickly mastered the art of being a BBQ Can you tell us about the style of food you pitmaster, and I always call him the “flavour serve? master” when we’re prepping food. Our food takes influences from all over the What made you decide to start up a food Southern region of the USA, because I was born truck here on the Coffs Coast? in Texas but raised mainly in South Carolina. Our Ed’s parents had this old caravan sitting in menu changes all the time, but you’ll see lots their yard for a few years. It was acting as a of classic Southern dishes, American BBQ and storage shed. We made a bargain; if they gave Texmex. It’s all comfort food that’s made from us the van, we’d build them a shed (by the way, the soul. if you’re reading this - we promise we will build What is it about BBQ and Southern food it soon!) that you love so much? We knew we wanted to start our own Southern food originates from so many business together, and with my experience on cultures. You can see influences from Native food trucks back home - it just made sense. American, British, Spanish, African, French, the We also felt that the Coffs Coast was in need Caribbean and many other cultures. Bringing of some authentic Southern cookin’ that these influences together over generations has highlighted the incredible local produce. created some big flavours. These flavours are What was the process like for renovating what we love so much. the truck and getting it ready to use? Also, a lot of Southern food embodies the We couldn’t have done it without Ed’s “low n’ slow” method. Not only is Southern professional carpentry skills. He completely food about eating as a family or a community renovated the van into the cute blue food truck it’s about cooking as a community, kind of like a it is today. Ed worked so hard every weekend celebration of food. while working full-time on his carpentry Where do your recipes come from? Do you business, making the total process around eight create them, or are they old traditional months. recipes? We took the blue from the van’s original We actually create most of our own recipes stripe and integrated some beachy colours and using inspiration from original recipes and upcycled timber. We’re actually getting ready to tweaking them until we feel they’re perfect. do a second van, which is pretty exciting. Let’s be honest; test kitchen days are pretty

awesome. Some recipes are old family recipes that are already perfect as is. We’re in the works of launching our Palmetto Spice Mixes, which are recipes we’ve created from scratch. We’ll have our Texmex Spice Mix, Southerner Down Under Mix, and BBQ Rubs up for sale in the next few months. We also hope to expand to sauces too, since we make our own BBQ and Hot Sauces (Ed’s a chilli fanatic). What are some of your favourite types of events/venues to cater for? We love backyard events. There’s something about coming into someone’s home and bringing them joy through our food. These events are usually pretty intimate, so we really get to know the guests, which is fun. This year our favourite event was probably BowlA-Nana Skate Competition. It was such a cool community event, with amazing skaters. We also love concerts; what could be better than cooking food and listening to live music? Where can people usually find you and The Palmetto? We are so excited that we have our new home at Boronia Park in Sawtell. This is the little park on the way up to Sawtell Headland. We get to do what we love in one of the most beautiful spots in the world. That view is insane! We have lots of Op Shop picnic blankets, a free secondhand book library, games like frisbees and hackey sacks, and of course Southern food. We encourage buskers to come to the park and play nice tunes, and you can BYO. We’ll be there lunch and dinner on weekends and plan to expand our schedule soon. Check out our social media or website to track us down. Website thepalmetto.com.au Facebook @thepalmettofoodcaravan Instagram @the_palmetto Thanks Lindsay. Coffs Coast focus 27

focus_interview.

Inspirations Paint How colour can influence your dining experience

TigistTeressa MANA CHITA

TIME SPENT IN INDUSTRY: 10 YEARS

FAV O U R I T E F O O D T O C O O K W I T H : C H I L L I E S

hat is your favourite dish on the menu currently, and why? My personal favourite is Kitfo. I use topside beef, which I chop really finely - almost to the point of being minced. The beef has to be fresh; this is very important. Then I saute some garlic, ginger, onion, and spices in a pan. I take the pan off the heat and stir in the beef, so it’s warm but uncooked. Served with a traditional flat bread and mitmita spice blend, it’s really yum. Wine matching is important for restauranteurs - tell us about your wine choices. We originally chose wines that we thought best complemented the curries, but our customers had other ideas. So, we’ve constantly changed the wine list to reflect what customers prefer. These days it is our shiraz and merlot that are most popular. Both are organic, as are most of our wines. We also choose our beers based on how well they go with the food. Pale ales, amber ales, and dark ales are fantastic for this. What plans do you have for the future for the cafe? We don’t have any solid plans but we’re always fine tuning things in the kitchen and in the dining area. We want to make the kitchen run as smoothly as possible and make the dining experience as pleasurable as possible. This might involve things like adding or taking

28 Coffs Coast focus

away lighting, or even changing the colour of the serviettes. How would you describe your style of cooking? I would describe it as down-to-earth, homestyle, intuitive cooking. Everything that I make is the same as I’d make for my family back in Ethiopia, although I pay more attention to the presentation with our restaurant food. I don’t measure ingredients or use timers or scales. I use my senses and my judgement. So really, the dishes are never exactly the same, which I see as a good thing. Our regulars seem to appreciate that as well. How do you cater for special dietary needs? We have an advantage in this, because of the variety in east African food. There are many vegetarian and vegan options, and all of the mains are gluten free if ordered with rice. If someone has special dietary needs, they normally mention this when they book, and we make sure we have something for them. What's your specialty sweet menu item? This would be the dessert that we call Shuro mia. It’s a kind of firm pudding made from tef flour, which is a grain that is native to the Ethiopian highlands. There are also some spices that we add. The pudding is complemented by a stewed date syrup, some dark chocolate shavings, and vanilla ice-cream. What skills would you like to learn as a chef? I’d like to learn how to make time slow down.

Tell us the importance of colour and how it sets the mood when dining? Every great meal deserves a great setting. Colour can influence our mood - such as brown earthy colours can evoke the feeling of comfort and works well with other colours. On the other side of things, bright colours can make you feel joy and excitement. If the mood is right, a good dining experience can be turned into a great dining experience. What textures and colours are currently on trend? Warm earthy colours are currently on trend, but we are currently throwing in some soft textures and effects like lime washes and imperfect walls, instead of the traditional feature wall or two in a solid colour or wallpaper, as well as decorative floor finishes - which are stunning. Do you offer project and colour advice? We offer project advice - it’s what we are all about - from the ground up. If you have a vision or a need an idea, we will help you create one and work with you to achieve it.

What’s your idea of the perfect dining environment? Something different, that complements the meals. Think of the way your meals make people feel and surround them in that. Don’t be afraid to stand out and be different; people remember that. Have you eaten at that place with the amazing floors or the French washed wall? Their food is amazing. Being different in setting the mood is like having your own landmark on your restaurant.

Coffs Coast focus 29

THE COFFS COAST GIG GUIDE

FFS COAST

1 9

OC 2 T O B E R

2ND OCTOBER

16TH OCTOBER

Peter Barry - Element Bar

Rachel Laing - Element Bar

3RD OCTOBER

17TH OCTOBER

Darren Jack - Element Bar

Amy Shark - C.ex Group Coffs Vena Klymo - Element Bar Over 30s Singles night - Winkxx Night Spot

4TH OCTOBER TGIF! with DJs Rjay & FLak3y - The Coast Hotel Benny Black - Element Bar Cassian // Robina // Like Liquid - Winkxx Night Spot Vena Klymo - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

5TH OCTOBER Gunshy with DJs Jimmy Laing & Josh Hart The Coast Hotel Ryan Brooker - Element Bar LDRU + Special Guests - Winkxx Night Spot Chris Grieve - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

6TH OCTOBER Arrebato Ensemble - The Jetty Theatre Chris Wiggins - Element Bar Tyron Hapi + Special Guests - Winkxx Night Spot

19TH OCTOBER Frenchy - Sawtell RSL One Night Stand & DJ Breno - The Coast Hotel Ryan Brooker - Element Bar Calum Foulis - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

20TH OCTOBER Billie-Jo Porter - Element Bar Peter Barry from 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

9TH OCTOBER

23RD OCTOBER

Jacob Murray - Element Bar Billie-Jo Porter from 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

Josh Matheson - Element Bar

10TH OCTOBER Jarrah - Element Bar

11TH OCTOBER TGIF! with DJs Flak3y & Bisho - The Coast Hotel SOS the Australian ABBA Show - The Jetty Theatre Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Kailey Pallas - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

12TH OCTOBER Matty Devitt Band & DJ J Stainz - The Coast Hotel SOS the Australian ABBA Show - The Jetty Theatre Chris Wiggins - Element Bar Akova - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

13TH OCTOBER Josh Matheson - Element Bar Billie-Jo Porter from 9:30 - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

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18TH OCTOBER TGIF! with DJs Flak3y & Bisho - The Coast Hotel Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Rojdar - Single tour Tired Of Talking - Winkxx Night Spot Daniel Hopkins - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

24TH OCTOBER Looking For Lucy - Element Bar

25TH OCTOBER TGIF! with DJs Flak3y & Bisho - The Coast Hotel Chris Grieve - Element Bar Mischa Tanshevich - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

26TH OCTOBER Normie Rowe - Sawtell RSL Sabotage & DJ Dollar Bill - The Coast Hotel Benny Black - Element Bar Chris Grieve - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

27TH OCTOBER Peter Barry - Element Bar Peter Barry from 9:30am - Dark Arts Brew and Bar

30TH OCTOBER Vena Klymo - Element Bar

31ST OCTOBER Kailey Pallas - Element Bar Spooky So Fresh Halloween Party - Winkxx Night Spot

Coffs Coast focus 31

focus

DISHES of the month

COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL GALLERY

STILL

National Still Life Award 2019 Exhibition & Events

MANA CHITA

Beef Samosa.

Images clockwise from top. Honor Freeman, Small Acts of Care. Victoria Reichelt, Corrugated Horror, 2018 Oil on linen. Gerry Wedd, Vanitas, 2019 Ceramics.

Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery’s signature event, “Still: National Still Life Award” returns this September, with 56 artists selected from a record number of entries from artists all over Australia.

COAST HOTEL

Share plates and specialised cocktails.

ERNIES KITCHEN

Lobster Roll – chilled lobster, toasted brioche, kewpie mayonnaise, lemon juice, chives, lobster tail.

TOORMINA HOTEL

Grilled pork cutlet with green beans, heirloom tomatoes, bocconcini, apple and rocket. 32 Coffs Coast focus

f the finalists selected, 14 are from an area stretching from the Northern Rivers to Port Macquarie, highlighting the vibrant regional arts scene. The artworks include sculpture, painting, ceramics, printmaking, photography, installation and video demonstrating the great diversity of approaches to the still life genre by contemporary artists in Australia. The winner will receive $30,000 prize money, and the winning artwork becomes part of the Gallery’s collection. The popular People’s Choice voting will take place from 20th September until 1st November, and will be announced on 7th November. The 2019 Finalists are: Phil Alldis, Louise Allerton, Kelly Austin, Sue Bell, Stephen Bird, John Bokor, Sara Bowen, Janine Brody, Kelcie Bryant-Duguid, Fran Callen, Brett CanetGibson, Carol Christie, Christine Courcier-Jones, Madeleine Cruise, Fiona Currey-Billyard, Michael Cusack, Jo Darvall, Sally Davis, Rachel Doller, Kate Dorrough, Christine Druitt-Preston, Scott Duncan, Helen Earl, Michele Elliot, Ben Fayle, Sharman Feinberg, Robert Fenton, Honor Freeman, Corrie Furner, Salvatore Gerardi, Jane Gerrish, Warwick Gilbert, Myfanwy Gullifer, Andrew Hickinbotham, Sally Hook, Julie Hutchings, Susan Jacobsen, Jane James, Susan Knight and Trevor Mein, Suzanne Knight, Marie Mansfield, Donna Marcus, Nicola Moss, NOT, Victoria Reichelt, Ignacio Rojas, Daniel Sherington, Asahi So, The Bund Project - Linelle Stepto and Catherine Lane, Stephanie Theobald, Gerry Wedd, Greg Weight, Jo White, JP Willis, Amanda Wolf, Christopher Zanko. The gallery is also delighted to welcome back sponsors saso creative, Moving Art, Bryant McKinnon Lawyers, along with the gallery’s new

sponsors the Friends of the Gallery and Andrew Peace Wines. The judge for the 2019 award is the highlyrespected Director of the Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) Rebecca Coates. The Still exhibition of finalists opens on Friday 20th September, with a special Friends of the Gallery preview event, followed by the official opening on Saturday 21st September, with the announcement of the winner. Opening night tickets are $10 each, on sale now. The exhibition runs until Saturday 30th November, and includes an exciting programme of events and workshops. This year’s programme of events includes a breakfast panel discussion with Still 2019 finalists and special arts industry guests; an allages mixed media workshop, and collage and machine stitching demonstrations with Still 2019 finalists; guided exhibition tours; and a return of the Still Salon. Still Salon 2019 features works from 35 local artists from the region stretching from Byron Bay to Port Macquarie. It will be hosted at the temporary Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery Annex on Level 1 at Coffs Central, thanks to the generous support of Gowings. Still Salon 2019 runs 18th October to 2nd November, with the official opening on Saturday 19th October, 3 - 5pm. Visit www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/still to buy your Still 2019 opening night tickets, and register for the free Still 2019 and Still Salon 2019 events. Keep up to date with the latest gallery news by subscribing to our newsletter at coffsharbour. nsw.gov.au/subscribe and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @coffsharbourregionalgallery We look forward to seeing you at the Gallery for Still: National Still Life Award 2019!

Coffs Coast focus 33

events and functions

Functions

34 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

After 18 years of putting fun and laughter on to the very streets of this fair city, the 2019 Coffs Harbour International Buskers & Comedy Festival enters its nineteenth year in 2019 and just like an eager teenager, is bursting at the seams with ideas, flavours and new energy. The festival kicks off on October 1 and continues until October 6th. FOCUS had a chat with the legend himself, John Logan, to find out more … HE PEOPLE BEHIND THE EVENT Every year while the locals and visitors to Coffs are out enjoying the last few months of summer, one small band of hardworking locals is bunkered down in their offices, often until very late at night, planning the next instalment of the yearly Coffs Harbour international Buskers & Comedy Festival. “Yes, it's a pretty stressful time, and this office does everything from sponsorship and artist negotiations, to international and domestic travel, marketing, social and mainstream media, contracts and then once they get here, run the event,” said organiser John Logan. John also paid tribute to his staff at JLE, Roslyn Gardner and Adam Smidt, as well as the other half of JLE, Steve Douglass. This small band of people make it happen every year. WHAT’S IN STORE THIS YEAR? This year will be a six day event, starting on Tuesday, October 1st with a promotional day in Armidale, running through to Sunday, October 6th. Over the past few years, they have been actively working to shorten the event, to make it better value for all stakeholders. This year, the daytime focus will be heavily on the city centre, with four days from Wednesday to Saturday included and two attractions scheduled for the city centre only. These will be the infamous Gargoyle, who

will kick off each weekday at 9am and the amazing Dr. Hubble educational bubble show. The Pier Hotel will host three nights of Unrealestate Adult Comedy on the Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday nights, hosted by the impeccable Lindsay Webb. On Friday night, a very special Twilight Market will be held at Park Beach Reserve. Saturday, the festival travels to Moonee Beach Tavern and Sunday, the Harbourside Markets will finish off the festival. WHAT ARE THE MUST SEE ACTS? John was quite coy when we put this to him, only adding: “There are a lot of highlights; why not see them all?” However, FOCUS understands from interest gathered on social media, the Gargoyle - who was last here some five years ago - can expect big crowds and a lot of interest. KIDS DAY Kids Day this year will take place on Wednesday, October 2nd in a new location, once again sponsored by Unrealestate and Geoff King Motors. After several years of moving around, organisers hope they have now found a home. This year, the event will take place at Park Beach Reserve. The location has seen some high quality shows over the past year, has generous amounts of shade and is central for many locals and visitors. There will be a secure fence around the whole site, with toilets, amenities, food stalls and all rides inside the fence, just like last year and the years before. Dave Bourke from OOSH, who attend the

day in big numbers, boxes, and Bendy Em, THIS YEAR, THE DAYTIME commented: “Yes; we whose contortionist act FOCUS WILL BE HEAVILY think the kids will love has, to our knowledge, ON THE CITY CENTRE, it”. never been done in a WITH FOUR DAYS World champion pub. There's no cover FROM WEDNESDAY TO jump rope skipper charge, but organisers SATURDAY INCLUDED Luke Boon will make added: “Bring a note, not AND TWO ATTRACTIONS his only festival coins, for the hat”. SCHEDULED FOR THE CITY appearance, as well as THE HAT CENTRE ONLY. a replica of the 1989 A very important part (Michael Keaton movie) of the festival, John Batmobile. Organisers offered: “Don’t forget to will bring in extra jumping castles and slides drop some money in the hat; it’s what these to accommodate the expected crowds. The guys do for a living, and it’s what the festival is action kicks off at 10am. Tickets are on sale all about”. The only event where the hat isn’t now at www.coffsharbourbuskers.com and put out is Kids Day. once you have your ticket (online for $10 + RAIN booking fee or $12 at the gate) all attractions Everyone is praying for rain except the inside will be free. The buskers do not put out buskers festival and for daytime events in the the hat on this day. city centre, the events move to Coffs Central UNREAL ADULT COMEDY upstairs in front of K-Mart. In the event of For three nights this year, the incredibly wet weather elsewhere, keep an eye on funny Lindsay Webb will host the “Unreal the festival's Facebook page (https://www. Adult Comedy Club” at the Pier Hotel. The facebook.com/coffsharbourbuskersfestival) or event is sponsored by Unrealestate Coffs Coast listen to MMM106.3FM or 105.5FM. and organisers remarked, “It’s great to have PROGRAMME them on board”. The full programme will be published online Joining Lindsay for the very first time will on the festival website on the 28th September. be the hilarious pick pocket comedian Jarred Programmes will be made available at all Fell and South African born comic Dusty Rich, events. as well as Patrick Duffy, the master of theatre WHERE CAN I FIND OUT MORE? sports - who is the Gargoyle’s alter ego. For more enquiries, check out the website Adding to the absolute comedy chaos will be www.coffsharbourbuskers.com buskers Pandora Pink, the girl with the pink Facebook, or call 6652 8266 BH. Coffs Coast focus 35

Functions

Woman of the Year Award 2020 The search is on again to recognise outstanding women in the Coffs Coast region who demonstrate significant leadership and achievement in empowering women and girls.

Nominations are now being called for the 2020 IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award, to be announced at the IWD Breakfast, C.ex Coffs, on Friday 6th March 2020.

The International Women’s Day, Woman of the Year award aims to recognise nominees who are involved in the work of a voluntary, community, business or professional nature, and who, within that arena, would be displaying vision and initiative inside their role.

The three major women’s groups in Coffs Harbour: the Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc.; Business and Professional Women (BPW) of Coffs Harbour; and the Coffs Coast Business Women’s Network (BWN) come together to organise the IWD Breakfast, to acknowledge the positive contribution of women and girls in the region of the Coffs Coast and to recognise the winner and runner up of the Woman of the Year award.

Past award winners have been Christina Monneron (2015), Charlotte Young (2016), Jane Tavener (2017), Aunty Bea Ballangarry (2018) and Shelley Lowe (2019) below pictured.

hat is the history behind the Coffs Coast Beer Festival? Last year was the inaugural year for our Coffs Coast Beer, Food and Wine Festival. We believed that our local area needed its own event. It provides an opportunity for the community to come out and sample various craft beers and wines and try various multicultural dishes in a relaxing environment. Can you briefly describe the event and what we can expect this year? We are expecting 10 - 15 craft breweries to attend, with a similar number of food vendors. Who are some of the suppliers involved we can look forward to seeing? Some of the brewers that have committed to date are: - Stone & Wood - Byron Bay Brewery - 4 Pines Brewery - Feral Brewery - King Tide Brewery

beer Fest - Wicked Elf Brewery - Young Henrys Will there be entertainment? Yes, we have local musician Michael Bryers performing from midday and well known local performers Who’s Charlie on stage from 3:30pm. Is the event child friendly? Most definitely; we have the Smiley Squad entertaining the children in our playground area from midday. Is there a cost involved? The event is free to enter. Where can we find out more? www.Toorminahotel.com.au and Facebook.

FRENCHY FRENCHY IS BACK WITH HIS BRAND NEW AND MOST OUTRAGEOUS SHOW YET - TURN IT UP.

his unforgettable night is full of wild banter, along with ridiculous stories and crowd work that is amongst the best in the world (self-proclaimed). Frenchy keeps the crowd constantly engaged with his eccentric and unorthodox ballads that keep you thinking, “Is this

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some kind of bogan Ed Sheeran?” If you haven’t seen a Frenchy show yet, brace yourself for his weird, warped and wonderful dirty mind ... (very dirty). DATE: Saturday 19th October. TIME: Doors open at 7:30pm. COST: $45 + BF. WHERE: Sawtell RSL.

Functions Australian Festival Industry Conference Festival organisers, promoters and suppliers are invited to hear from some of Australia’s leading festival management experts, such as Adelaide Fringe, Tamworth Country Music Festival and many more, at the inaugural Australian Festival Industry Conference (AFIC). The event is the only one of its kind in the country! It’s a rare and exciting opportunity for festival personnel across all types (inc. arts and culture, music, food and drink, ideas and sporting festivals, etc.) to upskill, stay abreast of the latest changes in the industry and learn how to safeguard their event’s survival for the future. Some examples of presentation topics and workshops include: • Crowd safety and event medical management • Managing your festival’s digital transformation • Volunteer management strategies • Government funding opportunities AFIC Conference (Thurs 24th - Fri 25th October): two days of expert speaker sessions, workshops and local event facilities and site management tour with Coffs Harbour City Council and Zaccaria Concerts. Full conference (inc. networking event) ticket cost: $550+GST AFIC Industry Networking Event Cocktail Party (Thurs 24th October): perfect for suppliers, media, tourism and educational organisations, etc., who are interested in building relationships with festival organisers from across the country! Ticket cost: $110+GST (includes three hours of food, alcoholic beverages and entertainment). To view the full programme or to purchase tickets, visit: www.australianfestivalconference.com.au

Opal Cove Resort Thank your team, and treat yourself to a Christmas event at Opal Cove Resort, with packages from $35pp. The experienced team have worked throughout Australia and overseas for large and boutique properties. We know how to roll out the red carpet and provide the VIP service you deserve. The resort also offers access to locals, who are welcome to join the popular “Locals Leisure Club”, which provides access to the pool, spa, sauna, training room, tennis courts and 25% discount at Horizons Restaurant. The 12 month “Locals Leisure Card” is only $300 for two adults. At Opal Cove during October to February we have free live music and entertainment every Sunday afternoon from 3:30pm. Locals and visitors can enjoy Sundays on the Terrace, with live music, cocktails, craft beers and great food - take in the beautiful views, amazing sunsets and happy hour! Book your event today and quote “Focusmag” to receive a thank you gift for booking with us.* Find out more today at confsales@opalcove.com or visit us online at opalcove.com.au *T&C’s apply.

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Functions

Botanica An Evening in the Gardens

The Heart and Soul Foundation runs much-needed health and wellbeing programmes that assist vulnerable women who are recovering from severe trauma. The programmes are targeted at helping vulnerable women rebuild their self-esteem and confidence, particularly in order to re-enter the workplace, study, as well as the community and the wider world.

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an you briefly describe the Where did the idea for the event come event and what we can from? expect on the night? Botanica is a totally collaborative event. As you enter the Botanic We - Jane Tavener, Lindsay Russell, Lisa Daniel Gardens, you’ll be immersed and Sarah Poole - all know each other via local in the atmosphere of roving business women’s networking groups. We musicians and arts performers amongst an were inspired by Jane’s work with Heart & Soul elegant boho-style picnic Foundation, an initiative set-up. It will showcase a which had won her Coffs bunch of our own local Harbour Woman Of The creative talent, along Year 2017. We were each As the sun sets and the beats with various Sydney, brimming with ideas from pick up the main stage and Melbourne and Byron events our diverse team lawn will transform Bay artists coming on has attended all over into a fashion runway board for the night. Think the world and wanted showcasing clothes summer music festival to highlight what the by regional and local meets coastal cool! You Coffs Coast has to offer designers for women (and boys can sample bushtucker - culturally, fashion-wise and girls!) of all ages. The party foraged from the gardens and more - with an extra will then truly get kicking ... by a celebrity chef, or you bit of elegance and can explore the market imagination. stall lane, craft beer alley We know that a lot and food truck circle. of locals tend to feel As the sun sets and the beats pick up, the that they need to go to the capital city to main stage and lawn will transform into a get a taste of off-beat inspiration. But, we fashion runway, showcasing clothes by regional wanted to give them an opportunity for that and local designers for women (and boys and amazing night out - without leaving town. girls!) of all ages. The party will then truly get Even better, it all supports an important local kicking, with fire dancing, DJs, bands and more. cause and showcases the many types of talents

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Food and local produce will be front and centre, with a cooking show from

Gourmet-Traveller award-

we have right here on our doorstep. With our love of community and the creative arts and with a diverse range of skills, networks, and experience, we think the Botanica team are a force to be reckoned with! Who are some of the acts and artists we can look forward to seeing? MUSIC: Roving performers from the Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium. Hannah Harlen is a Coffs acoustic singersongwriter who has been featured by triple j Unearthed. She’s a one-woman show, with incredible guitar skills and a unique voice. Prepare to get lost in the music with this gorgeous local act. Tanuki - home-grown and original music duo, with one of Bellingen’s most talented imports and rising jazz singers Georgie Chorley, whose incredible soulful voice you will have heard featured on the Screenwave International Film Festival trailer; the lyrical power will raise the hair on the back of your neck. Funkatu will finish the night with an all-out dance party! Louey Howell and Funkatu are a local Bellingen Trio who pour funk basslines, howling guitar solos, soulful rhythmic didgeridoo and irresistibly danceable drums. Expect a crazy fun night to dance your booty off! We’ve also got local broadcaster and selfconfessed vintage disco, nu-soul, dance-punk and hip-hop nerd Eve Jaremka providing the beats for the fashion show and warming up between dancefloor sessions. ARTISTS: The Botanic Gardens will be transformed into a creative wonderland. Amongst the native trees you will discover atmospheric art installations from some of the most well-known

different roles. winning chef Mitch Grady artists in the region, Jane Tavener, and decorated Melbourne including: John Thiering founder of Heart & Soul chef Andrew Gale. Sapphire and a surprise guest Foundation and Event Beach chemical-free farmers New with a projected sand Director; Life Farm will be bringing seasonal painting, Gumbaynggirr Lisa Daniel (The Design ingredients. artists Brentyn Lungan Cupboard) - Creative and Alison Williams, Julie Director; Nash and winner of our Sarah Poole (One Fine “budding artists comp”, Day) - Operations Manager; Lana G Creative - to name a few. Lindsay Russell (Peachy Thinking) - Marketing Dance performances from fire wizards Kozmic Manager. Fuzion and the Julie Ross Dance Studio. Who are some of the sponsors of the Designer and illustrator Victoria McGrane event? of The Scenic Route - a former Emerald Beach FOCUS - major media partner and Birdcage local - is responsible for the beautiful Botanica sponsor; branding. Victoria is a former fashion designer, Surf Club Bar and Restaurant; whose clothes featured on international Nikki and Todd Blewitt; catwalks. Her illustration work features her The Design Cupboard; modern, hand-drawn take on native flowers Susan Green Legal Practice. and local Coffs Coast wildlife, and you will find This event would not be possible without more of this inspiration throughout Botanica.

all of the in-kind contributions made by local businesses and the many volunteers. Is there a cost involved? botanicacoffs.com.au/tickets General admission tickets $35. FOCUS Birdcage - The VIP Experience, Tickets $150. Immerse yourself in the Elements Ceremony for an additional $25. Picnic cheese boxes available on pre-order at checkout from The Cheesemaking Workshop. Where can we find out more? www.botanicacoffs.com.au/

Botanica, An Evening in the Gardens will be held at the Botanical Gardens on Saturday 9th November, 5pm until 10pm. Tickets available from botanicacoffs.com.au/tickets

COOKING SHOW: Food and local produce will be front and centre to start off the evening, with a cooking show from Gourmet-Traveller award-winning chef Mitch Grady and decorated Melbourne chef Andrew Gale. Sapphire Beach chemicalfree farmers New Life Farm will be bringing seasonal ingredients. Tell us about the FOCUS Birdcage - ‘’The VIP experience’’. The Birdcage is set up in full view of the stage, with some seated and standing areas for mingling and connecting with others in the marquee. The experience includes being catered for (grazing bowl style) by The Hilltop Store, your own private bar, amenities and front row seats to all the stage action - positioned right in front of the catwalk. Tell us about the committee and their Coffs Coast focus 39

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p h i l l i p s

Winkxx W hen and why did you decide to open your own night spot? I decided to open up a night spot around six months ago, when we noticed a lack of nightlife in Coffs Harbour. We were also battling through noise issues within our back room space at The Coffs Hotel and needed to come up with something, so I came up with Winkxx. Where did the name originate from?

The name Winkxx originated from old TAB building, which is now our nightspot, as we wanted to keep the racing theme going from the old TAB building - hence why we called it Winkxx. What sort of vibe can we expect? I've gone with the neon pink sign vibe, "Trust us, you can dance", vodka, "You can't sit with us" and our logo, Winkxx. Our lighting and production is set up like a festival vibe. Can we book Winkxx for functions/ birthday parties? Of course you can! Big or small, we have you

covered for up to 250pax. We are now taking bookings for birthdays and functions. If you choose to have your birthday with Winkxx, we will give you a round on us, valid before 8:30pm. Would you like to book your function at Winkxx? Please email samphillipscoffs@gmail.com When are you open, and what are some of your weekly promotions? We will be opening from Wednesday nights

through to Sunday. At the moment our main focus is Friday and Saturdays, to set our vibe going, with the odd Sunday popping up here and there. We have happy hours from 8pm until 10pm, with $5 drink specials and $7 cocktails, as well as free entry before certain times. Where can we find out more? Facebook.com/winkxx and Instagram/winkxx Come check us out.

Music Dance TIX ONLINE! Proudly supported by

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Loi c Prouin

F r e n c h C o n n

F o o d e c t

Functions Loic Prouin, head chef and owner of French Food Connect, started in late 2017 with a single goal in mind: to provide beautifully prepared French food served as restaurant quality, without you even having to leave your home. FOCUS had a chat with Loic, to ﬁnd out more ...

hat is your connection with the Coffs Coast? We moved back to Australia in 2016 from the Provence area in France to Coffs. We came here because we were looking for a nice climate with a decent amount of rainfall. We have lived in a few places in Australia that are very dry, and keeping a veg garden alive was hard work. When did you first become interested in cookery as a career? I started a summer job when I was about 19 as a dishy! I really liked watching the chef in the rush hours, so I decided to start an apprenticeship. What training did you undertake, and where was your first job? I have the French chef training, and I worked at a restaurant called “Les ecuries de l’aube” in Aix-En-Provence (south of France). How would you describe your style of cooking? I really love the flavours from the old school cooking. I am influenced by many styles of cooking, drawing ideas and flavours from my extensive travel experience. Whatever I cook, I always give priority to the taste and respect of the produce. Then I try to make it as pretty as I can, as you eat with your eyes first. When it comes to creating a seasonal menu, what do you take into consideration? I always try to get produce from the Coffs Coast and then when not available, I source them from elsewhere in Australia. I don’t use asparagus from Mexico or garlic from China. What is your favourite dish on the menu currently?

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My favourite dishes: there that I could not choose just one, but I couldn’t imagine a - Entrée: Moreton Bay bug, watercress, sea asparagus and life without butter. squid. Throughout your career - what famous chefs have you - Main: lamb two ways; slow cooked shoulder and smoky admired and why? rack. My two favourite chefs are Joël Robuchon and Alain - Dessert: France on a plate - frozen Ducasse, both for their passion and how Grand Marnier soufflé, crème brulée dedicated they are when they work in and chocolat fondant. a kitchen. When I moved to Australia I like them, just because they are 10 years ago, my English was very the most popular dishes, and nice bad, and a friend advised me to watch There are so many dishes feedback from a dish is the best Gordon Ramsay to improve my kitchen - probably as many dishes reward. vocabulary (not the swearing ha ha). as there are villages. My When it comes to special events Have you travelled much to expand mum was an excellent and functions, what range of food your interest in food? pastry chef, and and services can you offer? Yes, we have travelled to more than 30 growing up watching We have a lot of options to choose countries throughout Europe, Asia, and her respect for food was from. We cater for finger food, buffets even Africa. a big inﬂuence on me. or plated events, Christmas parties, How do you cater for special dietary weddings, birthdays, baby showers, needs? fine dining, corporate morning teas, I am very passionate about healthy lunches or dinners. We can also eating, and I have some great suppliers provide professional bar staff and waitstaff. You invite the who provide beautiful, fresh vegetables to cater for our guests, and we take care of the rest. vegetarian and vegan clients. Most of my recipes are gluten What would you say is the biggest influence in your free. Everything is cooked from scratch, so there are no hidden cooking? ingredients. We always use the utmost care and respect France is obviously my biggest influence. There are so many people’s food choices. dishes - probably as many dishes as there are villages. My mum How can we get in touch? was an excellent pastry chef, and growing up watching her You can call us on 0436 020 987, email us: respect for food was a big influence on me. frenchconnectfood@gmail.com or visit our website: Do you have a favourite ingredient to work with? www.frenchconnectfood.com I have found the perfect woman, but not the perfect We are also on Facebook and Instagram. ingredients yet. There are so many beautiful ingredients out Thanks Loic.

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Share Christmas

Paciﬁc Bay Resort event spaces set to excite this summer.

There’s a lot of planning that goes into creating an event at any level and as a guest, it’s always a delight to be greeted by something a little bit special or diﬀerent than the ordinary. Often it comes right down to the little touches that make a stand out event or special occasion.

D Let the experienced team at Bonville Golf Resort prepare your Christmas or end of year function. Select from a range of stunning venues, chef prepared buffet and A La Carte options, together with an award winning wine list. Complimentary transfers and Sparkling on arrival when you book before 31st October.

(02) 6653 4002 christmas@bonvillegolf.com.au

www.bonvillegolf.com.au 44 Coffs Coast focus

elivering new and exciting the upscaling of the Bayside Green. Set right flavours is just the beginning at alongside the lagoon and surrounded by tropical Pacific Bay Resort’s Bayside Bar gardens, the venue offers the perfect setting and Grill. Their recently refreshed for a lazy lunch, cocktail party or dinner under function menus are set to light the stars ... “We’ve been working with Sperry up Christmas and end of year celebrations in the Tents out of Byron Bay. Their products set the coming months. The menu is laden with fresh perfect mood and are styled from head to toe, local ingredients, featuring local seafood, beef, including festoon lighting, coastal inspired fruit and vegetables. The menu is complemented lounge areas and flooring in beautiful neutral by fresh herbs and tones,” says Stephanie. flowers grown right Match this with a private onsite at Pacific Bay bar, fire pits and attentive Resort; the kitchen team service, and you have the WE’VE BEEN WORKING have been spending time making for something really WITH SOME FANTASTIC building new vegetable special: “It’s important to LOCAL SUPPLIERS TO patches and cultivating personalise your event, ADD AN ELEMENT OF their own special touches so think about things like SOPHISTICATION TO OUR to add to your plate. adding a signature cocktail, RECENT EVENTS. As for the location, share platters that make the decks at Bayside Bar great ice breakers and and Grill offer a stunning generally how to best utilise opportunity to style your the space you’re working event: “We’ve been with,” she adds. working with some fantastic local suppliers to Book your Christmas or end of year add an element of sophistication to our recent celebration at Pacific Bay Resort before 31st events,” says Groups Sales Manager Stephanie October and receive FREE sparkling on arrival. Kesby. “When it comes to Christmas and end of Choose from a range of beautiful resort venues year celebrations in the workplace, the trend has and even add a game of golf on the par three been to delight the team, to celebrate the wins resort style golf course. Discover their delectable and celebrate the comradery on which great menus at www.pacificbayresort.com.au or teams are built.” speak to one of their friendly team about your Styling is just as important as the food, celebration, email sales@pacificbayresort.com.au and the newest addition to the property is or call (02) 6659 7000.

Celebrate!

Discover Bayside Bar and Grill for your Christmas or end of year celebration. Choose from a range of relaxed function areas or dine alfresco overlooking the tropical resort lagoons.

Enjoy our Chef designed Christmas menus featuring fresh local seafood, share platters, buffet and A La Carte options.

Complimentary Sparkling on Arrival When you book before the 31st October

Bookings (02) 6659 7000 sales@pacificbayresort.com.au www.pacificbayresort.com.au Coffs Coast focus 45

GLASSHOUSE

REGIONAL GALLERY

focusinterview.

We spoke to local musician Joshua Matheson about growing up WITH A PASSION FOR MUSIC, WHAT HIS CREATIVE PROCESS IS LIKE AND WHAT HE LOVES ABOUT BEING A PROFESSIONAL MUSICIAN on the Coffs Coast.

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The biennial Mid North Coast showcase exhibition is

BACK IN 2020! If you would like to be part of this showcase of regional talent, please apply online at www.glasshouse.org.au/ NE2020

ARTIST SUBMISSIONS

NOW OPEN

glasshouse.org.au/NE2020 02 6581 8888

Digital Marketing Partner

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JOSHUA

MATHESON

i Josh. Can you tell us about your connection with the Coffs Coast? I’ve lived on the Coffs Coast for the majority of my life, but for a short stint in Sydney. I was born and grew up in Bellingen and spent a pretty wonderful childhood here. As a musician, I have worked all over the Coffs Coast - it’s a pretty spectacular place. What are some of your earliest memories of feeling inspired by music? I grew up in church and my dad played in the church band, so much of my early exposure to music was in that context. I don’t remember this personally, but I’m told as a two-year old I would apparently pull up a chair next to the drummer in church and mime exactly what he was doing. I had a ukulele and an electric drum machine, so from about two years I was bashing and smashing and trying to learn music. My first scar came from falling on to a snare drum rim with my face! When did you first start practicing music, and what was your first instrument? I started on drums as a two-year old, but my first actual lessons were on piano when I was about five. I had lessons for about three years, and then sport kind of took over for a bit. I went from piano to bass guitar to drums and then finally to guitar, where I literally had my first lesson this year. Having the rhythm and melody components down, I was pretty much self-taught, but wanted to push myself - so this year I started getting vocal and guitar tuition. How would you describe your style of music? It’s a real mashup. I would describe it as pop-soul-hop, kind of cruisy soul spliced with elements of hip hop and pop music.

But it’s hard to categorise, because I write so much different kinds of music, including blues, reggae and funk. The way I describe it in my bio is a curious cocktail of the aforementioned genres, and I think that sums it up pretty nicely. You perform with a couple of different groups/duos, as well as solo; can you tell us about each of them? Yeah, so as a full-time musician a lot of my work is cover based, so I play with Chris Boaz in The Funk Thieves and we do the pop, funk, disco cover thing. My real passion though, is performing original music under the guise of LTTLE KNG. We recently played the Bello Winter Music Festival and had a ball. What are some of your favourite types of gigs to perform? Definitely any venue where you can do something a little different. I love to mix up cover tracks, so they’re different to the original version, and I love dropping original tracks anywhere I can, so venues where you have audiences who are a little more attentive to what you are doing are my favourites. My favourite day to perform is Sunday afternoon, because it suits my vibe, and people are happy to sit and listen and, hopefully, buy an album! Do you write much of your own music? Every week. A couple of years ago I fell in love with writing again, so I forced myself into a challenge I call #tuesdaytunes - it’s where I start and finish a song every Tuesday without fail and post a snippet of it to my insta account (@lttlekng). Through challenging myself this way, I have been able to push myself and write a whole different bunch of songs that I am really proud of. What is the process of making music

like for you? I like to reference a whole bunch of music for inspiration, so I will often put on a playlist and have it going while I am wandering around the house and then when I finally sit down, I feel some kind of vibe of what I want to write. The process itself for me almost always starts with a beat. I find I draw a lot of inspiration from rhythmic elements, and it kind of helps me direct where the song goes. Then add keys, bass, guitar, and finally vocals. Of course, it’s not always this way, but more often than not that is how I start a track. How do you know when a piece is complete? This is a hard one, because you can listen to an idea so many times that you begin to hate it, but play it to someone else, and they love it. I find getting close to finishing and then sitting on it for a week and coming back to it helps. That way if I still feel good about it, I know it’s close to finished, - but to answer the question, I never really know! Sometimes you just have to call it. How would you describe the music scene here on the Coffs Coast? Definitely getting better. I mean, I perform for a living on the Coffs Coast, so there is enough work out there if you are willing to go get it. I think too, more venues are trying to create a vibe through having live music, so it’s not just an afterthought, but integral to creating a space where people can have a good time - which I think is amazing! Where can people find out more about you and any upcoming events? Social media is always the best @lttlekng on Insta and facebook.com/ lttlekng as well as facebook.com/ thefunkthieves and @funkthieves on Insta!

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W E D D I N G R I N G Specialists Toleman & Co are your locally owned family jewellery store in Coffs Harbour that specialise in engagement and wedding rings. Michael Cleary and his Tolemans team have been designing and creating custom made diamond engagement and wedding rings for over 40 years. If you have dreamt of a personal design, then they have the expertise and experience to design and craft that ring to the highest standards - and what a perfect way to symbolise your love and commitment to each other, with a custom made engagement ring and wedding rings. With hundreds of designs to choose from, Toleman & Co pride themselves on having the most extensive range of ladies’ and gents’ wedding rings on the Coffs Coast, including the classic and traditional bands

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crafted in yellow, white and rose golds, along with platinum. Currently, the most sought after designs to match engagement rings feature diamonds. Many of these are specially crafted by the Tolemans team, to ensure the band and diamond content match the engagement ring design. Michael says, “There is an increasing trend for clients to choose rose gold wedding bands to match their white gold engagement rings. With some designs this helps to highlight the feature diamond of the engagement ring.” Toleman & Co. also have a extensive collection of patterned wedding rings that can be easily crafted in different widths, sizes and golds; these are ideal for those who dream of matching bands. Call into Toleman & Co and “see the difference”.

CARMEL Kestles Carmel is recognised as Coffs Harbour’s most sought out bridal, glamour and spray tan artist. It’s not just her work that brides and bridal parties love, but her passion, kindness and her desire to make every bride feel special and at their very best for their wedding day. As Coffs Harbour’s premier bridal makeup artist, Carmel knows and understands what a bride really wants - simply to look and feel beautiful. Known for her professionalism and the ability to create flawless finishes, Carmel has celebrated a milestone as a leading bridal makeup artist, making it as a finalist for the 2019 Mid North Coast Brides Choice Awards.

Carmel continues to be in high demand as the bridal artist of choice in Coffs Harbour and throughout the North and Mid North Coast. She is looking forward to working with her brides for 2020 and what the year has to bring.

Let the Day S PA R K L E Vanessa Dobbs is the owner of the new Let The Day Sparkle Weddings and Events - a wedding event planner here in Coffs Harbour; we wanted to explore what Vanessa does … What is Let the Day Sparkle all about? We are a specialist wedding planning business, passionate about crafting breathtakingly beautiful weddings on the NSW Mid North Coast. We are dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our clients, from venue selection right through to the magic moment the bride walks down the aisle. Combining our passion for celebrating love with our meticulous eye for detail, we will seamlessly execute your big day. Why is it great to have an event planner? The amount of planning that goes into a wedding is enormous, and many couples don’t comprehend how much work is involved until they start the process. Having an event planner for your big day can truly be a lifesaver. From assisting with your budget, scheduling, making bookings, communicating with vendors - not to mention ensuring everything runs smoothly on the day - there’s so much to do! Do you offer various packages? At Let the Day Sparkle, we’re happy to help as much or as little as you need! We are a full

Photography by FA L LO N service wedding provider, covering all aspects of the wedding journey. Our packages include: On the Day Coordination, Wedding Week, Month Out Planning and Coordination, Partial Planning, and the Whole Shebang. Whichever package you choose, we will ensure we craft the perfect wedding that reflects you as a couple, meets your budget and most importantly, is seamless - allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy this special time. How can couples get in touch? If you would like to hear more about how we can help you on your big day, please get in touch! Visit us at www.letthedaysparkle.net email us at info@letthedaysparkle.com or check out our Instagram page at letthedaysparkle. We welcome all enquiries and are offering 30% off package prices for bookings made before the end of October 2019.

What does Photography by Fallon offer? I’m best known for my wedding photography work, often travelling between NSW and South Australia. My wedding clients then return for newborn and family photographs; it’s lovely to capture my client’s lives and stories as they evolve. I’ve been in the industry for 13 years now and have met many people on my travels, which has led to me taking on a variety of jobs, including product and corporate event photography. What is your particular style? Every client and their story is different, and I respect that by capturing who they are with a strong focus on the environment surrounding us and using beautiful natural light where possible. What do you love about shooting weddings? Being chosen to photograph a wedding is a privilege; it’s a “Backstage-Pass” to one of the

most important days of people’s lives. It gives me butterflies every time, and I thrive off it! The love between a newly married couple and the love radiating from their family and friends is always electric and magical; it’s a joy to be involved and never gets old. What moments do you feel best capturing? Sneaking a couple out of their reception for a moment to capture a photograph afterdark with smoke bombs is a highlight. It’s the first quiet moment the couple get alone and watching the reality, enormity and excitement of the day hit them is really cool. Overall though, creating images that will make people smile for generations to come is my “happy place”.

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Curan Guy & Tonia

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This month we interviewed Guy Curan and Tonia Bodanski about THEIR BEAUTIFUL WEDDING EARLIER THIS YEAR IN BELLINGEN. We wanted to know how they put their special day together.

ongratulations on your recent wedding! When did you and Guy meet? Long story short, Guy and I met a long time ago. You see, he is one of my brother’s best mates ... Guy was always around growing up, and I may have developed a soft spot for him some time ago ha ha. Guy invited me and a friend to his 21st; we kept in touch after that and almost a year later, started officially dating. How long have you been together, and what made you decide to get married now? Guy and I started dating seven years ago. There was no pivotal moment where we decided to get married; it was just a natural progression and something we both really wanted. However, I may have given him a not so subtle nudge ha ha. We are both very passionate about creating a strong, healthy and respectful relationship, and marriage was the next official step. How did you find all the vendors? We had a really positive experience throughout organising our wedding. We booked all local vendors; they were all very friendly and accommodating to our specific visions and ideas. Carmel Kestles @carmelkestlesmakeupartist did our makeup and spray tans. Carmel is an incredibly talented makeup artist and always nails her work! I’ve been lucky enough to have my makeup and spray tans done by Carmel

quite a few times, so it was special to have Carmel there on my wedding day as well. Gabby Patmore @thestudio.01 did our hair; Gabby was super accommodating, especially as I changed my hair the morning of the wedding! All the girls’ hair looked awesome. Alice Faircloth @euflorial did our amazing flowers; our arbour was incredible! We were totally blown away by her amazing work! Fallon @photographybyfallon - we could not recommended Fallon enough. We were lucky enough to win our photography package at the Bonville Wedding Expo, and I am so happy we did! Fallon was so organised and helpful. James @mooseandcoweddings filmed our wedding. James captured some really special moments and put them together so beautifully in a highlight film; we would highly recommended getting a videographer if you can squeeze it into your budget. @weddingswise made us a beautiful custom cake topper, and we also hired a few bits and pieces, as well including an unplugged ceremony sign and gorgeous wishing well. The amazing Sam Dawson @marriedbysam was our celebrant - Sam is such a beautiful person inside and out; you can tell she just loves love! We are lucky enough to know Sam personally, which made it that little bit more special, but Sam is your lady if you’re looking for a celebrant. What were the fun parts and the challenging parts?

TOO MANY PEOPLE GET CAUGHT UP IN THE SPECIFICS AND FORGET WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT MARRYING THE MAN OR WOMAN OF YOUR DREAMS. THE REALITY IS, THE MINOR DETAILS WOULD ONLY BE NOTICED BY YOU ANYWAY.

The fun parts were seeing all the people that mean the most to us in one venue, and feeling the huge amount of love and support for us was just so overwhelming and something we will never forget. The other fun part was seeing our vision come to life. The most challenging part was getting the RSVPs back ha ha. To be honest, we found the whole process relatively stress free; of course, planning a wedding there will be moments of stress, but for the most part we didn’t experience many challenges that I can think of. How did you come up with the style you wanted and the look you were trying to achieve? Our beautiful venue at Cedar Bar in Bellingen set our style and look; it was perfect! I had always envisioned a relaxed, rustic style wedding. Cedar Bar being a 110 year old church that has been mindfully renovated to capture its old character and beauty while still being modern and fresh was exactly what I had in mind. Was your day exactly what you envisioned? YES, and more. It’s so hard to imagine it all coming together but when it does, it’s a pretty amazing moment. I always had a picture in my head and with the help of family, friends and vendors, they made it all come together so

beautifully. Any advice to brides out there planning their big day? Use spreadsheets! They kept me on track and on time. It’s so hard to try and remember everything; it’s so much easier to have all your information in one place, so it’s not always on your mind. Also RELAX; your wedding is supposed to be a special time; it’s silly to get caught up in all the minor details. Too many people get caught up in the specifics and forget what it’s all about - marrying the man or woman of your dreams. The reality is, the minor details would only be noticed by you anyway. Ask for advice from your vendors; they are the experts and are super helpful if you let them in. What was the best part of the day for you? Our vows; that was the most raw and beautiful moment. Funnily enough, our vows were very similar and read much the same. Our vows were very important to us, and we both put a lot of time into them. The idea of standing up in front of everyone and telling your partner what they mean to you is super daunting, but on the day when we were up there looking at each other, it honestly felt like we were the only ones in the room for just a moment. Thanks guys. Coffs Coast focus 51

OUTPOST HAIR Hanna Lynch

The team at Outpost create more than just beautiful hair in a luxurious salon environment. They invite you to experience their precision cutting, luminous colouring and fashion-inspired styling techniques. FOCUS had a chat with Hanna Lynch to find out more about the new salon at Moonee Beach and much more ...

hat is your connection with the Coffs Coast? I grew up in Bellingen and left for Sydney after school, where I did my hairdressing training. After seven years of working down there, I felt a pull to come home to the area again. I wanted to bring my kids up here, so it was an easy decision to come back to the area. When and why did you decide to become a hairstylist? When I was 16, I moved to Sydney to do my apprenticeship. I was always interested in the industry, and it was always a creative outlet for me, even before I began my training. What services do you provide, and what do you specialise in? We are an Exclusive Aveda salon, which means we don’t only just cut and colour hair; we provide an indulgent experience with Aveda’s signature rituals, head and hand massages, delicious organic tea and of course, using only Aveda’s naturally derived products. I make sure the whole team is involved in new training courses each year, to stay inspired and up to date with the latest cutting and colouring trends. As creatives, I think it’s important to always find new ways to offer our guests something that will make getting their hair done a stand out experience. Tell us about your team. I feel so lucky and grateful for my team. Outpost has an abundance of talented stylists and colourists, all who are passionate about their craft and always committed to creating the best look for their guests. All the girls work so well together, and I love seeing the work they produce, their happy clients and the way they work together in the salon. I also have amazing apprentices, who blow me away all the time with their commitment to learning and their dedication to the salon. We do a lot of training in the salon; this is a big passion of mine, and it’s always great seeing the senior staff pass on the skills and knowledge to the juniors and watch them learn, grow and

52 Coffs Coast focus

find their own style and creativity. Tell us about your new salon in Moonee. We are so excited to have just opened our second store in Moonee. I had been looking for the right place to take Outpost Hair, and Moonee Beach had the perfect spot. There are not many places to get your hair done north of Coffs Harbour, so I think there was a space for us there, and so far people have been loving the new salon, the Aveda products and the Outpost team. What do you enjoy most about your job? Making my guests happy is always fulfilling - that feeling when you watch them checking themselves out in the mirror, touching their new ‘do, with a smile on their face ... it never loses its magic. Being creative and finding new ideas and passing them on to my guests - that’s what keeps me inspired. Education and training is a huge passion, and I LOVE teaching my young emerging stylists. We do a weekly training in the salon, as well as sourcing educators to come and do intensive training sessions with all the staff on a regular basis. You can never stop learning and growing! What advice do you have for people looking to join the industry? Look for a salon that has a happy, professional, team vibe. You want to have access to lots of training, so working somewhere with talented stylists and colourists who are willing to teach and mentor is really important. Be willing to work hard! The more effort you put into your education and training, the more you will get out of it. And get a pair of comfy shoes!

Married by S I M O N T R A V E L Centre For an all-inclusive romantic getaway, the team at the Travel Centre in Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour loves Club Med’s packages for their resorts in the Maldives. Experience barefoot luxury at its absolute finest. Welcome to The Finolhu Villas and Kani, an eco-chic paradise set on an exclusive island in the Maldives. Celebrate your love in a heavenly destination, where dazzling natural beauty and elegant design combine for an explosion of the senses. Discover exceptional overwater villas and beachside villas, with unspoilt vistas, amazing dining experiences and a wealth of adventurous pursuits. Each moment here is truly unforgettable - just like your honeymoon should be. Take a walk on the pristine sands of this fabled escape, and then immerse yourselves in a very

special style of island life. Club Med’s resorts in the Maldives offers breathtaking and luxurious accommodation - from overwater villas to beach retreats. Each private hideaway is ideal for newlyweds. You can completely relax, knowing that meals, an open bar, entertainment, most activities and transfers are included in your package. Lap up the free-flowing champagne, and explore the warm, azure waters of this Indian Ocean idyll. For a romantic honeymoon, Club Med Maldives resorts are pure paradise. With no fees, Travel Centre Coffs Harbour can set up a custom honeymoon registry today, so your family and friends can help to make your travel dreams come true! You can use the funds for airfares, tours and accommodation.

Simon is one of Coffs Coast’s foremost marriage celebrants, who has joined hundreds of couples during his amazing 12 years of handcrafting truly awesome wedding ceremonies. Brides Choice Awards recently voted Simon the “Best Male Celebrant” on the Mid North Coast - An award that reflects Simon’s ability to create and deliver a ceremony experience like no other. Preferred by a number of premier wedding resort destinations, Simon has built a reputation of providing each and every couple a true celebrant experience. For Simon, the privilege of joining two people together in marriage is simply out of this world. Simon offers marriage services from the most intimate of elopements to the largest celebrations imaginable. He has done them all, so you always know you’re in good hands. Respected in the industry by his peers and fellow wedding suppliers, Simon’s light hearted approach, combined with his genuine nature

and ability to calm guarantees a stress free ceremony experience every time. Simon guides all of his couples with ease, navigating through the legal obligations, creating an unforgettable and personalised ceremony. Simon can even assist penning vows, to perfectly capture the essence of love and commitment. Experienced, fun, relaxed and definitely not boring. Simon designs marriage ceremonies that are contemporary, to the point and reflect everything that a memorable ceremony should be. Based locally in Coffs Harbour, it’s no surprise why couples and industry suppliers continually recommend Simon to anyone considering tying the knot locally and throughout Australia. To learn more about Simon and explore the countless testimonials, blogs and other helpful information simply visit marriedbysimon.com.au or visit his Facebook page.

your sweet honeymoon escape CELEBRATE YOUR LOVE THE CLUB MED WAY

ALWAYS INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE

Club Med Kani Maldives

Club Med Finolhu Villas Maldives

7 NIGHTS FROM $2,030 PP1

7 NIGHTS FROM $3,760 PP1

NO ADDITIONAL COST Premium Honeymoon Package

UPGRADE - APPROX.$440 Exclusive Honeymoon Package

• • • • • •

• • • • • • • •

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Bottle of wine Room decoration Club Med couple T-shirts Priority check-in* Late check-out* Priority reservation in gourmet lounge or specialty restaurant Couple portrait*

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Couple spa treatment (50 min) Romantic dinner Bottle of champagne Room decoration Club Med couple T-shirts Priority check-in* Late check-out* Priority reservation in gourmet lounge or specialty restaurant Couple portrait

Travel Centre - 02 6652 1833 15 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour www.travelcentrecoffs.com.au Coffs Coast focus 53

HARLOW&CO Harlow & Co are so excited to welcome Danielle to the team: I’m really happy to announce that as of September 2019, I will be working alongside the amazing team at Harlow & Co in Coffs Harbour. I’ve been in the hairdressing industry going on six years now. I enjoy all aspects of hairdressing, and I’m extremely passionate about my craft. I especially love colouring - blondes, balayage, semis, grey coverage, vivids. You name it. All of it, I love it - especially a challenge that makes me think outside of the box. Pairing a beautiful fresh colour with a haircut that complements the tones and texture of your hair, and also your lifestyle, is my top priority and something I’m very proud to create. I’m really excited to become a part of the Harlow & Co team. They’ve all been so warm and welcoming already, and I look forward to growing further into my career alongside all these talented individuals. I’m welcoming all clients to come and visit me at Harlow & Co (Park Ave) for a refresh or a whole new makeover. New or familiar faces are more than welcome. Thank you so much for your support, and I hope to see you all soon.

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Freelance F L O W E R S Sherri and Nikki are the new proud owners of Freelance Flowers-Floral Studio, a well established local business of 10 years, in Northside Shopping Centre. This is a great addition to your existing business partnership in wedding and event planning. Was this purposeful? Adding in was very purposeful as part of our business partnershipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth. It was also extremely organic; we began conversation with the lovely Di Patterson, the previous owner/operator, who was ready to retire and looking for the right purchaser. The studio found us, as much as we found it. Tell us about what makes Freelance FlowersFloral Studio different? Our focus is fresh cut flowers, and we have an entire wall at the studio dedicated for anyone to come in and create a

masterpiece with qualified florists. Do you source these locally? We use local suppliers/vendors as much as possible. We are committed and proud that this is a huge component of our business acumen. Do you enjoy the craft of floristry? Yes; however, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t pretend to be florists. We leave that piece of the business to our amazing team of four florists, who are the artists. The only formula we use in this studio is, make it beautiful, make it suit the client and occasion, make it fresh and on budget. How can people get an arrangement? Our clients can walk in and choose from our wall of flowers and have us make something, they can order online, they can choose something the team would have already arranged, or bring in an idea and see how we can help it grow.

Melbourne Cup Lunch TUESDAY NOV 5th $85 tickets or $109 incl. Drinks Gourmet Buffet Lunch, Private VIP area & a Race Book

coffsracingclub.com.au 62 Howard St, Coffs Harbour PO Box 482 Coffs Harbour 2450 (02) 6652 1488

Coffs Coast focus 55

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DĂ&#x192;IN DESIGNS

BWN Event

Mick and Shanette Farrell

Jodie Hartmann, Molly Taylor, Harry and Lewis Bates

Megan Howard and Natalie Hunt

Margaret, Susie and Julie

Alana Johnson, Adelaide Zietsch and Tim Saladine

social scene. Anna McAfee and Lynda Marshall

Bonville Cup

Prosper Coffs Launch Event - Daniel Heather and Chelsea Howard

Susan Kirby, Virginia Jolly, Graeme Kirby

Mike and Deb Davey at Opal Cove Resort

Jan Morgan, Danni Auch and Lisa Harvey Erin and Karen Jackson

Kris, Molly, Harry, Lewis, Carol, Gary and Mel

John Logan, Todd Nicholls, Kailey Pallas and Ben Stevenson

56 Coffs Coast focus

Jenna Gill and Zoe Why

Vicky Hunter and Nicole Moore

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DĂ&#x192;IN DESIGNS

Mel and Lyndall at Opal Cove Resort

Leanne Zietsch and Brett Weick

Kristen, Kailey, Kristian Pallas and Diane Robinson

Maddy, Nicole and Lisa at Opal Cove Resort

Bonville Cup

Prosper Coffs Launch Event - Sarah, Janelle, Keeley and Virginia

social scene. Andrew Johnson, Svetlana Burrows and Julie Bellamy

Kirsty Christensen and Sarah Poole

Naomi Hudacek and Emma Binns

Mel Crossland & Carol Evans

Marcus Phillips and Nicci Seccombe

Bonville Cup

Prosper Coffs Launch Event - Yvonne, Lorraine, Antionette Ellen

Lee Finch, Tanya Watts and Carmen Finch at Opal Cove Resort

Lily Isobella, Sam Dawson and Laura Humphrey

Madonna Bannerman and Bec Platts Coffs Coast focus 57

WITH TEGAN SWAN OF WOOLGOOLGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

focus_tourism

WITH FIONA BARDEN

events+ UPDATE

Visitor numbers grow with increasing world-class events

Spring on the Northern Beaches We’re almost halfway through spring, and on the Northern Beaches it certainly feels like summer is the early guest to the party, eager to arrive! Luckily, on the northern end of the Coffs Coast, we’re prepared and more than ready.

s we all know, Woolgoolga choose some epic and quirky takeaway and the Northern Beaches options and sit on one of our beautiful are brilliant all year round reserves, or head to a café or restaurant, #imnotbiased but they are work your way through the menu and enjoy especially shiny and fun as the world passing you by. the weather warms up and Let’s be honest though; after all that great you’re itching to get outside and get active; food and the drinks, you should definitely as the days get longer and as the silly season take some time to walk it off and visit the looms, it’s all about fun. fantastic retail spaces from Moonee to So, here’s what you need to do … jump Corindi. From homewares to fashion and in the car from wherever you are and get everything in between, you’ll enjoy the over here! Or, if your experience and be idea of fun is a little so glad that you’ve bar hopping, as we wrapped up your epic do have the best ones day on the Northern on the coast, perhaps Beaches with a spot of Mountain biking and an Uber is a more retail therapy. You might adventure tourism in responsible option? be so happy, you even general is taking off Actually, while we’re decide to stay! all over the world, and talking transport, We’ve talked bars, we’re lucky enough you could ride here! bikes, waves, dining and to be surrounded by Mountain biking and browsing … I told you incredible bike tracks adventure tourism in there’s a lot to see and both along the coast and general is taking off do here. So how are you into the hinterland. all over the world, and going to find out more we’re lucky enough details? Well, my first to be surrounded by advice would be to just incredible bike tracks come and explore and both along the coast and into the hinterland, make that part of the adventure. But, if you where riders of all levels can enjoy this do like to be a little more organised and plan healthy pursuit for as little or as long as they your day, you can head to www.woolgoolga. like. org.au to find out all the details on where to After your ride, of course you’ll need Eat, Stay and Play on the Northern Beaches. to cool down. So fortuitously, all along Our website is also in the process of being the Northern Beaches stretch of coast are updated and more added to it. If you’re a magnificent beaches and swimming spots business owner on the Northern Beaches for you to enjoy. You might be feeling a little or your know something fun happening up hungry too, following all that effort (whether this way, then please reach out to social@ it was the riding and swimming, or the lifting woolgoolga.org.au so we can include you. of cocktails with your hand) so you might as Happy exploring on the Northern Beaches well grab some lunch or dinner. You could in October, Coffs Coast Crew!

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The Coffs Coast region has an event calendar to suit everyone. From worldclass rally car racing through to a Buskers and Comedy Festival, the Coffs Coast hosts a full selection of events that draw thousands of visitors to the region each year from across Australia and around the world.

vents are big business for the community. With financial benefits spreading across the region long after the fanfare of the event has faded, maintaining a calendar of events which drive tourism overnight visitor numbers and support the local community is a key destination priority. Growing the number and scope of events takes a passionate team, committed to the region’s ongoing event management reputation through the delivery of quality events for our community. These events, mixed with the destination’s nature experiences, add up to create a unique appeal. The next few months see a huge range of events, including culture, music and sport, all taking place in prime spots in and around our region. Upcoming festivals that celebrate all things delicious include CurryFest on 28th September and Eat Street Woolgoolga on 5th October, where you can taste your way through the delights of local food on the Northern Beaches. With the inclusion of cooking demonstrations by celebrity chef Justine Schofield, Curryfest continues to grow each year, to entice visitors with a celebration of food, dance and vibrant culture. A dedicated train service, the “Bollywood Express” by NSW Rail, bringing passengers direct from Sydney for the festival, ensures this festival will remain a staple on the events calendar into the future. The annual Coffs Harbour International Buskers & Comedy Festival on 1st - 6th October is the only event of its kind in Australia. This cultural event draws professional buskers from across the globe to perform in Coffs Harbour, for four epic days of family fun and three nights of adults only comedy. If it is music you crave and rocking

on is what it is all about, Jimmy Barnes and special guests including Eskimo Joe, Jet, Killing Heidi and Thirsty Merc are set to entertain on October 26. If you prefer to tap your toes, Dorrigo is set to host its annual Folk and Bluegrass Festival from the 25th to the 27th October. For those where artistic culture is more their scene, The National Still Life Award and exhibition is set to take place at the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery from 20th September - 6th October. Selected artists from across Australia compete for this prestigious national award, that offers the largest prize for still life artists in the country. Sporting enthusiasts will get a dose of adrenaline and watch the dirt fly at the Kennards Hire Rally Australia, 14th - 17th November. Coffs Harbour is the final stage of the 2019 World Rally Championships and a fantastic opportunity for enthusiasts young and old to see the spectacle this world class event has to offer. The Rally Australia event programme includes entertainment by Dragon and tastes of international food on Friday and Saturday nights at Pedders Rally Central Service Park at C.ex Coffs International Stadium. This event spreads across our wider region, with plenty of opportunities for spectators to get up close to the heart stopping action and see teams from all over the world competing for supremacy, right here in our back yard. The flurry of events over the next few months will certainly get us all up to speed for a busy summer season, and the influx of visitors eagerly anticipate the kaleidoscope of colour and festivity that will arrive with Elton John in February 2020. We invite you to check out more detail of what’s in store at www.coffscoast.com.au #coffscoast #naturallyconnected

focus_education

W I T H B D C P R I N C I PA L N I C K J O H N S TO N E

Youth Employment Photo Caption: Swans Crossing Nature Playground, Kerewong State Forest.

Spring has sprung!

I have entitled this article Youth Employment and not Youth Unemployment or Youth Underemployment, in a conscious effort to refocus our attention on potential solutions and to not dwell on the problem without action. I will, however, address the elephant in the room. What are the current numbers?

he statistics around youth unemployment rates are quite frightening, with the regional rate at 23% unemployment for 18 to 25 year-olds quoted in one source and, from a more conservative source, a figure of 17.6%. Regardless of what the true figure is, I think we can safely state that with the NSW Mid North Coast rate of 11.6%, it is above what is desirable and requires direct action, followed up with some longer-term plans. From a discussion with some large employer groups recently, it was stated that there are still training deficiencies in our marketplace. Some employers are stating that potential employees do not have the skills for work readiness, while other employers are stating that current school, TAFE and university courses are not addressing our local needs. Assuming that both of these statements are true, I see the potential in our human capital and our employers. Before I outline my thoughts on a way forward, let’s look at some research from Foundations for Young Australia. They state in their “The New Work Reality” report that there are four accelerators that support youth finding employment. The accelerators are: • Building enterprise education skills employed 17 months faster • Relevant part-time paid employment or internship - employed 12 months faster • Part-time employment in future-focused clusters - employed five months faster • An optimistic mindset - employed two months faster Using the statements above, let’s focus on some strategies for supporting our youth. Before I go any further, I need to state that we all need to be part of the solution. What can schools do? With a changing labour and skills market, schools need to have a careers program with strong links to our community. Schools need to link the curriculum learning to careers and need to provide more than the traditional one week of

work experience in Year 10. Students need to have multiple encounters with employers and employees (at school and in public events). Students need to have multiple experiences in workplaces (at least three before students are 18 years old). Students also need to have regular encounters with future tertiary education opportunities and, where possible, start that training with TAFE or university while still at school. Finally, students and parents/ carers need to have a positive relationship with the school career adviser. In my school, this role is called the pathways coach. What can employers do? Reach out to your local schools to provide work experience opportunities. Volunteer to be a careers guest speaker. Build a long term partnership with your local school. While this is an investment in your time, and training does have a burden attached, it is also an opportunity to build positive relationships with your region, support the next generation of employees with skills for employment and build your reputation as a business of high character. Thank you to the businesses that are already doing this. You are making a difference. There are, however, approximately 1,200 businesses in the Coffs Coast region, and that has significant human capital potential. What can youth focus on? Volunteer as much as you can. Start talking with your careers adviser. Involve your parents and respected adults in your life. Look for work experience opportunities to build connections and skills. Find a mentor. Remain positive and open to different workplace experiences. This human capital problem can be solved by our human capital potential. Are you willing to be part of the solution? Source: https://www.fya.org.au/report/thenew-work-reality/ Future Focused Clusters: The Carers - employment in the health sector The Technologists - IT specialists with creativity and problem-solving skills The Informers - experts in statistics, scientific skills, economics, policing, and teaching.

Winter is over, and warmer days herald the start of spring. What better time to visit your local State Forest? With around two million hectares of NSW State Forests, you’re spoiled for choice. Check out your local State Forest-based mountain bike club and take in an adrenalinpumping ride, picnic by a stream, camp out under the stars, or simply take a leisurely forest drive. The natural environment takes centre stage in spring, with an abundance of unique Australian flora and fauna emerging in bursts of colour and activity. You can bring your car, caravan or campervan, you can pitch a tent, explore forest roads on trail bike, horse-back, or 4WD and bring your dog too - yes, that’s right, dogs are welcome in NSW State Forests. A range of information is available to help plan your next visit, including a free mobile phone app called “VisitForests”, which provides online and downloadable maps, photos and information

on forest experiences. Alternatively, you can pick up a regional Forest Map at local Visitor Information Centres in NSW, or contact Forestry Corporation online to purchase a copy. Visitors are also encouraged to share their experience via Facebook, Instagram and Twitter via #visitnswforests. The @visitnswforests Facebook page offers ideas on where to go, plus the latest safety advice, while the Visit NSW State Forests YouTube channel features some great videos to inspire your holiday plans. With so many forest-based visitor areas statewide, with a mix of visitor facilities such as picnic tables, BBQs, fireplaces, shelters, toilets, lookouts, walking tracks and easy-access carparks, NSW State Forests are a “must-see” destination in your travels. @visitnswforests #visitnswforests www.forestrycorporation.com.au/visit

Coffs Coast focus 59

focus_interview.

Childhood friends Troy Brown, Aaron Wittman and Steven Ayers have created a business together, and their personalities and skill sets seem to complement each other perfectly. THEY HAVE CREATED AN ACCOUNTING ADD-ON DESIGNED TO REDUCE RISK AND SAVE MONEY, THAT ANY BUSINESS CAN USE. We got Troy to tell us all about it.

ey guys. Tell us how you all met? Aaron and Steve met in Kindergarten and went to John Paul College together until Year 10. I was at Jetty High; Aaron came for Years 11 and 12, and we became friends. I met Steve, and we’ve all been friends since. Steve and Aaron lived together in London for a few years gaining start-up experience, I was in Sydney running my marketing agency for 15 years, but we all kept in touch. Randomly, we all moved home to Coffs, have families, and now operate Thirsty Studios and our new exciting start-up, XBert, together down at Jetty. What’s it like working together? Launching a start-up has its challenges (lucky I win the arm wrestles) but we all bring something different to the table. Our individual skill sets and personalities complement each other’s well. Because we are good friends, we have no hesitation in being upfront. It’s made for a very strong and productive working relationship. In a nutshell, what is XBert? Our motto is to help you stay a step ahead in business, and that’s exactly what XBert does. XBert is a simple, low-cost Xero cloud accounting add-on to reduce risk and save money intended for business owners, bookkeepers, and accountants. Using sophisticated algorithms, the latest advancements in machine learning technology, and predictive analytics, XBert detects risks before you know the risks exist! 60 Coffs Coast focus

XBert will find anomalies, errors, and identify patterns that even highly trained eyes may miss. XBert solves problems that are difficult or time-consuming, especially for small businesses. Many risks associated with bookkeeping go unnoticed or aren’t noticed until it’s too late, and that costs businesses big time. How much of your own personal experiences influenced XBert? Being in business really is a rollercoaster. Aaron and I each have over 20 years of experience owning and managing businesses in Australia and overseas. We could spend days telling you many tales of pain, pressure, highs, lows, and dealing with good guys and a few not-so-good guys. We both had trusted people who didn’t have the business’ best interest at heart. They were tough lessons, but we realised we weren’t alone. Everyone we spoke with had experienced the same problems, and the frustrations with the lack of real-time visibility over business finances. We knew we had to come up with a solution, and that’s why we created XBert. Why do you think there is a need for something like XBert, and how has it changed how businesses run since launching? So far, XBert has found over $2milion in potential savings for Australian businesses that could otherwise have been lost. The number of GST mistakes alone that occur has surprised us. We’re told that XBert: is unique, exactly what business needs, keeps financial reporting accurate and up-to-date, and is affordable and straightforward.

With XBert, you can trust your bookkeeping numbers, and time is not wasted looking for errors and anomalies. That means more time and money to focus on what matters most - business success. Smarter data means smarter insights, better business decisions, and better business advice. What goes into creating such a program, and how long has it taken to get up and running? From initial conception to launch in-market was almost two years. For a long time, it was just Aaron, Steve, and I doing absolutely everything. We know too well how hard it is for small business owners; that’s why we created XBert in the first place! Now we have a small and dedicated Thirsty Studios team of Coffs locals to get XBert out there - nationally and globally. All start-ups have their ups and downs. What were some of the struggles getting XBert up off the ground, and how have you risen over them? It hasn’t been easy or smooth sailing. Developing XBert has meant utter dedication, personal bootstrapping, house downsizing, ridiculously late nights, high stress, and very forgiving families. But that is small business, and if anything it has made us even more passionate about helping others stay a step ahead. We can’t cover everything that can go wrong in business, but at least we can help others reduce risk in their books and save money, and that’s really valuable. What sort of businesses could benefit from XBert?

Any and all businesses! XBert treats the data equally and will detect risks whatever the business size or type or turnover. A sole trader will get as much value from XBert as a large bookkeeping practice or national car dealership. We have plumbers and very large metro accountants using XBert. The simplicity and advantages it delivers resonate across the board. What has the response been so far from people using XBert? The response has been fantastic and very positive from small business owners, bookkeepers, accountants, and advisers. People love using our app, and we are continuing to develop more risk alerts and features. We’re getting new subscribers each week, so we know we are on the right track and are being rewarded for all of our efforts. We just returned from Xerocon in Brisbane, attended by thousands of accountants and bookkeepers and cloud accounting specialists. We ran over 160 demos of XBert and have had endless meeting requests since, including people from NZ, Singapore, and Hong Kong. We’ve also announced a partnership with global accounting leaders Bentleys Queensland, which is very exciting. Where can we find out more about XBert? You can head to our website: https://www.xbert.io We have a free 14-day trial. You can also find us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. https://www.facebook.com/XBertapp https://www.linkedin.com/company/xbert https://twitter.com/XBertapp

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Wellbeing

ALWAYS SPEAKING HER AUTHENTIC TRUTH, COMEDIAN MANDY NOLAN IS R U N N I N G A M A S T E R C L A S S H E R E I N C O F FS W I T H D R G E O R G E CAT S I TO T E AC H YO U H OW TO B E A B E T T E R P U B L I C S P E A K E R ! 12/13 O CTO B E R AT TO O G E T H A .

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the

HEAT UP Y O U R

I’m experiencing climate change on a very personal level. Every night I am a planet that heats up. I won’t use the “M” word. I don’t like it. When you use the “M” word, people glaze over. They stop listening. I know I used to.

ast year I was on the ABC’s Ask the Doctor talking about the M thing. I should have listened because then I’d know what’s happening. But I didn’t pay attention, because I didn’t have climate change back then. Apparently, I’m out of eggs. That makes me sad. In the fridge of life I am now an empty carton. I loved my eggs. I make great omelettes. All that’s left in my uterus now is a feather and a post it note that says, “I owe you an egg”. I don’t sleep either. I have this wicked insomnia where I’m pretty well awake most of the night. Unfortunately, in the cinema of my brain I don’t get to choose the movie. It’s called “everything you need to worry about until you die”; it seems to be on a loop. The only relief from the film is my rising temperatures. The heating thing is weird. I don’t really understand how it relates to the eggs. But it happens mainly at night. I wake up every half hour hot. Not just hot. On fire. Like the heat is coming through my head, it’s in my hair, it radiates from the inside out. I don’t think I’ve felt heat like it. As soon as it happens, I have to rip off all my clothes. Everything. If this is a hot flush, I hope it doesn’t happen at Woolies - because I’ll be naked in an instant. It’s not a choice; it’s a reflex. I’ll be the naked woman climbing into the cheese fridge. You’ll find me in there covered in cooling slabs of haloumi. Oh bliss.

Naked, covered in cold, soft cheese. I fantasise about emptying out my own fridge, just so I can use it as my personal climate control unit. I am awful to sleep with right now. My husband hasn’t said as much, but I do hear him whimpering in the night. I constantly seek the cool side of the pillow; which means I’m auditioning pillows all night. Rejected pillows are hurled from the volcano of my bed, and when they cool, I scramble to gather them. They feel a little bit like smooth, cold haloumi. I can’t work out whether I need bedcovers on or off. As soon as I get hot, I kick them off. Kick is the wrong word. I explode them off. My husband shrieks in shock. He’s freezing his nuts off over there, but I don’t care. I’m heartless like that. I look over the vast continent of my bed, and way in the distance I see my husband attempting to huddle under what’s left of the doona. He’s freezing. Lucky him. I put the fan on. I have a cold shower. How can two completely different climates exist in one bed? My husband reckons he has hypothermia. Next time he complains, I’ll wrap him in alfoil. Like a spinach roll. I’ve seen them do that on the news when they rescue people who’ve gone missing on long walks in the Blue Mountains. Perhaps he’ll go missing. I expect he’s almost dead some mornings; he certainly looks it. But, I feel strangely fine … Maybe I am a witch after all. Contact mandy@mandynolan.com.au for enquiries.

HAIR

From the humble hair clip to more statement bows and ribbons, hair accessories have stolen the hair limelight in recent months.

his party season is starting to heat up, and your hair should be ready for it. You need hairstyles that can withstand hot and humid weather. From crown braids to beach waves, we have your new summer hairstyles. Whether you have short or long hair, highlights or your natural colour, check out these easy summer ideas. Scrunchie Ponytail This ‘90s trend is coming back, and celebrities like Miley Cyrus can’t get enough of it. Even better, it’ll take about 10 seconds to copy her throwback summer hairstyle. Single Braid Once the humidity hits, every day feels like a bad hair day. On the worst days, take a tip from us and try out this cute hairstyle. Simply add one braid on one side of your head and then top it off with your favourite summer hat. Done and done! Braid Down the Back Keep hair off your back - and off your shoulders. Put your hair in a high ponytail, braid straight back, and secure. Use a hairspray to give your hair a sleek, clean look. Beachy Half-Up Half-Down Beach girls don’t let tousled waves get

in their way. Using bobby pins, tightly pull back the top layers of hair to keep focus on the beachy waves underneath. Wet Look Look like you’ve just stepped out of the ocean. Lauren from Living Doll recommends a high-gloss pomade for anyone, of any hair type, looking to try out the trend. After working the pomade through, wear your mane down, or slick it straight back for an edgy look. Balloon Ponytail Keep the ribbon trend going by tying off more sections of a high ponytail with statement elastics - just be sure to fluff out the segments for that balloon look. Now, let’s add accessories, some women have been fully committed to cutting their hair off short and happily convince themselves that a chin-length bob was the way forward ... Until now that is, until hair accessories changed EVERYTHING. Take one peek at influences on Instagram, and you’ll immediately recognise the tell-tale signs of woman everywhere who have got it bad for everything clips, pearls, shells, scrunchies, barrettes and bows. So, why not liven up that summer style and come in to Living Doll for some helpful hints and tricks to add that little extra kick for that special event today. XO Dolls. Coffs Coast focus 61

focusinterview

with Sophie Bird of Tallow and Tide

BIANCA MERRICK PA PA

PA S T Y

Whether you are vegan or not, you NEED to try Papa Pasty. Bianca Merrick is a one woman show who creates the most moreish pastry delights, that just happen to be vegan!

ey B! So funnily enough, I had a style crush on you long before I realised you made the most epic vegan pastries. So ... Tell me about it all! How old are

you, when did you start your business, and how on earth did you become SO cool? That’s so kind of you! I actually studied fashion business in Melbourne for a while. I always knew I wanted to have my own business, but wasn’t sure which path to take.

When I went vegan, my passion for cooking include Cheeseburger, and Coconut Curry is grew, which eventually led to me starting Papa always a big hit. Pasty at 25, a bit over a year ago now. After Talk me through a month in the life of being spoilt for choice with vegan food in Papa Pasty. How many events/markets do Melbourne, I found my options limited when you know? How does your prep work into I moved to Coffs a couple of years ago, so I travel and being such a mobile business? wanted to create something that Coffs hadn’t I generally do two - three events a week seen before. I also knew I wanted to be mobile from as small as a farmers market to as big as and get involved with all the amazing events a music festival, and the other days are spent we are lucky enough to have here and in making pasties and booking in events. I love surrounding areas; it makes each week totally having the opportunity to travel for work - I different and super exciting. get to see new places and meet new people; it Can you tell me basically feels like I get a (without divulging holiday every weekend. My your delicious secrets) favourite places to work about some of the just happen to be some alternatives you use in of the most scenic, such When I went vegan, your cooking? I know as Scotts Head, Yamba, my passion for I’ve seen options like and I love heading out cooking grew, which “Mac & Cheese” and to Promised Lands after eventually led to me “Bolognaise”, which a sunny day at Bellingen very obviously are Markets. starting Papa Pasty. aligned with animal Now, I’m sure it’s not products! only me salivating I missed cheese the during this interview ... most when I went vegan, SO! Where can people so I spent my free time in the kitchen trying try, love and enjoy Papa Pasty? to create something that would satisfy my I do the Coffs Growers every Thursday, cravings. After countless recipe tests, I came up Bellingen Markets every third Saturday and then with a delicious, creamy cheese for my Mac & I work up and down the coast most weekends; Cheese and parmesan for the Spag Bol. I also you just have to keep an eye on my social use jackfruit for a natural meat substitute in my media @papa.pasty to see where I’ll be! If you most popular pasty, the Butter Jackfruit, which have a pasty craving after reading this though, is similar to a butter chicken. My other flavours I’m happy to take private orders for catering.

Bulk billing CDBS available Family-friendly practice Extended opening hours Saturday availability

(Coffs Harbour & Macksville)

Children’s therapist PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & STAFF TRAINING FRESH DENTAL

2019

Grafton

Cnr Queen & Victoria Streets

6643 2225

Coffs Harbour

Suite 1, 252 Harbour Drive

6651 1350

freshdentalcare.com.au 62 Coffs Coast focus

Urunga

46 Bonville Street

6655 5800

Macksville

1 Princess Street

6568 1335

/freshdentalcare.com.au

WE’RE HIRING Would you like to be a more powerful speaker?

Are you a hairdresser tired of the same old thing? Wanting an employer who values you? Do you want to work in a salon that is colour and extension focused?

The most powerful and memorable speakers are those who are comfortable in their skin, who speak from a place of experience. The Authentic You - Speaking Your Powerful Narrative is a two day masterclass for anyone who wants to be a better speaker. It’s not just professional speakers, but also educators, team leaders, artists, writers - anyone who wants to find their authentic voice and connect with an audience in the most powerful way possible.

Living Doll Premier Stylists are a passionate team who specialise in colour, balayage, style cuts and hair extensions. We pride ourselves on our quality of work and our clients know this, and that’s why we need to expand our team. Living Doll Premier Stylists is not just any hairdressing salon … We are a new generation in PREMIER Stylists, with the utmost skill, passion and enthusiasm for our craft. Living

An authentic person is informed by their backgrounds personal and professional - and weaves those stories and experiences, to create a narrative of how they see the world.

Doll believes knowledge is the key, and we continue

How you use and understand narrative is central to understanding and engaging in social change. This is the art of story telling - the way humans have transcribed message and meaning across generations and throughout history.

with opportunities to travel around Australia for training

Dr George Catsi hails from UTS and has a PhD in Persuasive Performance. Mandy Nolan is a stand up comedian of over two decades and author of four books - she knows how to take a room amd tell a story! Together these two dynamic teachers will take you through an intensive hands on program that finishes with a filmed live seven minute presentation. The Authentic You Masterclass is at Toogetha in Coffs Harbour on Saturday 12th and Sunday 13th October. Enquiries to mandy@mandynolan.com.au or call 0422 701 680.

to encourage ourselves to learn more, providing all the training that is necessary to be at the top of your game, and to take part of special events such as Fashion Week and Hair Expo. We are looking for someone who shares our passion but is also open to learning new things. We have a flexible position for the right person; casual, part-time or full-time available. We believe in looking after our team, because we know how important you are! So, if you’re a hairdresser who’s looking for a change and excited about what you do, please contact Lauren via email info@livingdollstylists.com.au or 0413 006 696 to arrange a confidential interview. XO Dolls.

MASTERCLASS The Authentic You Convey • Convince • Command A 2 day masterclass for people who want to become more powerful & engaging speakers

g Speakin yo u r ul p ower f ! e v i t a narr

Cost $470 MANDY NOLAN & DR GEORGE CATSI DATE: VENUE:

Saturday 12 – Sunday 13 October @Toogetha 36 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour CONTACT: 0422 701 680 mandy@mandynolan.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 63

Maccas

junior

grants

McDonald’s Coffs Harbour and Nambucca are proud to support local children and groups through their Junior Grants Programme.

BEN Warden

What have your achievements been so far? I have been selected to participate in the Ginsberg National Championships for under 13s Erina from 15th - 18th August. Earlier this year I was selected to attend the Ice Hockey Australia’s National Development Camp in Newcastle for the best under 13 ice hockey players from around Australia. I also played on a selective team (Queensland Cyclones) that travelled to Canada earlier this year for coaching and games. While in Canada, we won the oldest minor hockey tournament in the world.

Why did you apply for this grant? I love hockey and want to get better at it. I’ve applied for the grant to help me continue to practice and play hard. How will this grant benefit you? And how do you plan on using it? There is tournament in Perth in December that I’d really like to attend. I’d use the money to help cover the costs of getting to the tournament. What are your hopes and dreams for the future? I hope to one day play hockey for Australia. I’ve already made the national camp for my age group. The first age category to go to the World Championships to represent Australia is under 18s, which I hope to make in a few years. I’d like to get a university scholarship for ice hockey as well. Who inspires you the most? Nathan Walker is the first Australian to play in the NHL. He has shown that if you are good enough and work hard, even an Australian can make it into the elite Ice Hockey League.

Ewan and Lara BAKER What have your achievements been so far? Lara was selected to represent the North Coast Academy of Sport for netball in 2019. She is also a representative for the Coffs Harbour Netball Association under 17s team, who recently came second at the State Titles. Ewan competed at the Catholic Schools Cross Country in Sydney. He came first in his race for the second year running and competed at PSSA on Friday 26th July. Ewan was also selected for the NCF State Titles U11 team for soccer and U11 MNC Axemen Rugby Union team this year. Why did you apply for this grant? The Maccas Junior Grant will help Lara to achieve her dreams of becoming a netball star of the future. It will assist in paying for travel to attend events around the state. This grant will help to fund travel and accommodation for Ewan for the many trips we make around the state to fulfil his sporting dreams to one day

become an elite sportsman in the future! How will this grant benefit you? And how do you plan on using it? We intend to use the grant to pay for travel and accommodation costs. What are you hopes and dreams for the future? Lara: To be successful as a netballer and to achieve my dreams to work and study hard to be the best person I can be. Ewan: To be a famous rugby or soccer player. Who inspires you the most? Lara: Stephanie Wood, because she never gives up and she puts in 100% whenever she is given the opportunity to play netball. Ewan: Cristiano Ronaldo, because he is always a good sport, tries his best in everything he does and always gets the ball back after he makes a mistake.

Walk With Us! Apia Steppin Out

Local residents are invited to come along on Wednesday’s at 8:30am to have a try and find out more about joining the group. The walking group meet at the Apia Branch at 4 Park Avenue. There is no need to register prior, just come along for a walk and stay for a chat and complimentary coffee or tea. Heart Foundation Walk Organiser and Apia staff member Merran is encouraging over 50’s to take up walking, no matter what their age or 64 Coffs Coast focus

fitness level. There are many health benefits of regular exercise and is also a great way to socialise and meet new people. “Heart Foundation Walking is fun, free and easy—so why not give it a try. We walk every Wednesday at 8:30am.” Participants of the program receive Heart Foundation Walking newsletters and recognition for their walking (including certificates es and vouchers) after they have reached major walking milestones. Residents are asked to please pop into the Apia Branch at 4 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour to attend or find out more about this new walking group. Alternatively contact us at communityengagement@apia.com.au

AW3810588

Come and join the Apia Steppin Out walking group and take the steps towards a happier healthier lifestyle. In partnership with the Heart Foundation, Apia run a free local walking group in Coffs Harbour to provide their customers and local over 50’s residents with a fun, free way to become more physically active.

Haydn Wilkins & Cortnie Hardy FOCUS recently sat down with Cortnie and Haydn from GENESIS Coffs Harbour and Toormina to find out what it’s like to be the driving force behind the clubs and how we can become a part of the incredible culture that both clubs have developed.

hat are your current roles at GENESIS Gym? Cortnie is the Club General Manager for Coffs Harbour and Haydn for Toormina. When and why did you decide you wanted to be part of the fitness industry? Cortnie: I have only recently joined this industry. I reached out to this opportunity, as I have a passion for helping others reach their goals. For me, it is the importance of physical fitness to not only improve your health and quantity of life, but also the mental wellness benefits and overall quality of life that really inspired me to join this industry. I want my children to understand the importance of balance of health, fitness and life. I want to help others to reach their potential and improve their lives. What motivates you? Haydn: My biggest motivation to succeed is definitely my family. Second to that, is seeing the happiness and results that I see day in and day out of all of the people willing to change their lives and lifestyles to live a happier and longer life. They are the reason I do this and I love doing what I do. Tell us about the culture of GENESIS Gym? Cortnie: We have a strong community culture, supporting and engaging with each other on our individual journeys. At the Coffs Harbour club we like to embrace diverse training options and experience levels to encourage and promote determination to reach members’ personal goals. Haydn: The club culture that GENESIS has always had is a fitness facility for anyone and everyone to train in. Specifically to Toormina’s culture is we are a tight group of people that provide a supportive and friendly environment for all new members to feel comfortable

from the first day. I am very proud of the community we have at Toormina; all of our members are super amazing humans. What services do you provide? Haydn: We provide a 24 hour fitness facility with strength and fitness equipment. We offer one on one PT and also group fitness. The bonus to having two GENESIS clubs so close together is as a member, you have access to train at both. Another amazing edition to both our clubs is the COACHING ZONE, which is a small group PT assisted program that provides eight different session types to target all aspects of strength and fitness. It is also assisted by the technology that is used during the sessions, with each person wearing a heart rate monitor belt that gives them a live feed of their current heart rate and emails the results back to you after the session. Cortnie: At GENESIS we offer a variety of different training options, making us a facility for everybody to engage with some of the best health and fitness professionals to reach their goals. Our three-storey facility offers training options for everybody; paired with 24/7 access and the Toormina club just down the road, we have everything you could need, whether you are just starting your fitness journey, an elite athlete or somewhere in between. How do we get in touch? Simply come down to the club and speak with one of our trained membership consultants, or call Coffs Harbour 6651 1172 or Toormina 6658 2800. You can email us at coffsharbour@genesisfitness.com.au or toormina@genesisfitness.com.au To find out more information about GENESIS, be sure to jump on our website: www.genesisfitness.com.au Coffs Coast focus 65

Snakebite First Aid Tip Northside Health Northside Health would like to welcome our two newest doctors to the team; Dr Allan Balais MD:AMC Cert is returning to Northside Health after spending some time practicing in Grafton. Dr Balais has many years’ experience as a Paediatric Consultant and has over eight years’ experience working in Bankstown and Westmead Children’s Hospitals. He is committed to providing quality health care to his patients and is a strong advocate for health promotion and education. Dr Salman Ali MBBS; AMC Cert; Em Cert has five years’ Neurosurgery experience, 13 years of Emergency medicine experience, Post Graduate Emergency Medicine Certificate from Royal Australasian College of Emergency Medicine and six years of General Practice experience in Coffs

66 Coffs Coast focus

Harbour. Both doctors are available to take on new patients. We are a mixed billing practice and for more information, please refer to our website. We are open seven days a week, and appointments can be booked online from our website for your convenience, or by calling the practice. Our staff and doctors are committed to providing you with exceptional service, and we offer a range of services that will address all your medical needs, including acupuncture, chiropractic services and remedial massage. We also collaborate with the local Primary Health Network on health improvement projects for our patients. Please visit our website: www. northsidehealth.com.au for more information and a comprehensive list of our services.

Every year approx. 3,000 Australians are bitten by snakes, but on average only two people a year die of snake envenomation. With the weather warming up here on the Coffs Coast, our slithery reptilian friends are becoming more active, so it’s a good time to refresh on the first aid treatment of snakebite. Australian snake venoms are a complex mixture of toxic substances, which can cause a range of effects on humans - including death. The neurotoxic effect from a venomous bite can quickly kill by causing breathing failure if left untreated. Other significant effects include bleeding, due to your blood being unable to clot, and life-threatening muscle damage caused by kidney failure. Despite some of the myths, venomous snake bites may be painless and without obvious bite marks. Often only a single fang mark or scratch may be present. Life-threatening effects may appear within minutes in massive envenomation, especially in children. With mild envenomation,

life-threatening effects may not be seen for hours. Treatment of snakebite is simple, but can be very effective in slowing envenomation. Firstly, commence resuscitation if required and call 000. Keep the patient lying flat at rest and if bitten on a limb, apply a firm bandage at the bite site and then from the fingers/toes of the bitten limb, extend bandaging upward, covering as much limb as possible. The bandage should not be applied over existing clothing. Mark the bandage over the bite site with the pen. Mark on the bandage the time of application. Ensure bandage isn’t too tight. Your finger should be able to slide between skin and bandage. Splint the limb and keep the patient and limb completely still until help arrives. Do not apply a tourniquet, don’t cut/suck/ wash the bite, and don’t try to kill the snake for identification, as the snake isn’t needed for ID and treatment. To get further training or to purchase a snakebite first aid kit, get in touch with the team at TacMed.

focusinterview.

MEREDITH TAYL OR

Stellar Goat Soap

Meredith Taylor is a goat farmer who started out with four goats on a one acre property in Queensland. Through her hard work and expertise, she has grown her business and is now on a much larger 56 acre farm in Dorrigo, where she breeds a larger number of goats - using their milk to hand-make beautiful soaps.

i Meredith. Tell us how you came to the Coffs Coast ... I was living on 10 acres in the Gold Coast Hinterland and came to Bostobrick, near Dorrigo, for a week’s holiday. I was really impressed by the scenery and farming land, so made a few enquiries about some properties. You are the owner of Stellar Goat Dairy Farm. What made you get into farming goats specifically? I bought my first goats back in 2004, when I was a single parent living on one acre at the Gold Coast. I was very naive and did not know much about goats. My parents had a goat when my little sister was a baby, as she could only drink goat’s milk, and I just “wanted goats”. I had no real aim or ideas about them. I started with two adults and two kids. What has it been like moving to a farm roughly five times the size of the one you started out on? After I had goats for seven years on one acre, I moved to a 10 acre mini farm in 2011, still in the Gold Coast Hinterland. Larger land size then meant I could have a few more goats; I was limited to four on the 1 acre, and on the 10 acres I could have 10 goats. Moving here to Dorrigo has meant that I can have even more goats and a few other animals. We have three donkeys and eight alpacas as goat protectors; they protect the goats from predators. We also have three horses, three cattle and some sheep. What made you decide to move to the Dorrigo farm? And how has it changed the way you operate? My husband (we married in 2015) and I

decided to move to a bigger farm near Dorrigo in 2015. We found “our little piece of heaven” in October 2015 and moved in April 2016. The main difference is we just have a larger space and can accommodate more livestock. When and why did you choose to start making soap from your goats’ milk? I first thought about making my own soap in about 1988. I was very enthusiastic; however, the method I was looking at used “rendered lard”, and I wasn't too confident about trying that method. After I moved to the Gold Coast and I had my first four goats and one had kids, I began to wonder: apart from drinking the milk, what else could I do with it? The internet had come of age, so after some internet research, I came up with a recipe to make soap using goat milk and oils (rather than rendered fat!) What's the process for creating the soap, and how much is done by hand? I milk the goats daily in the mornings. From the time kids are two to three days old, they are locked in a separate bay away from their mums at night. I milk the does in the morning, give a small amount by bottle to the kids (this makes them very human conditioned and friendly) then let kids into the paddocks during the day to be with the does. The remaining milk is used for making soap. The process is all done by hand mixing a milk and lye mix together with the oil mix (I now use olive oil with a dash of Vitamin E oil). The mixed liquid is poured into moulds, where it stays for 48 - 72 hours. Soaps are then unmoulded on to trays, cut if needed, and left on the trays to mature for four weeks minimum. Then they are ready for packing and selling. What are some of the health benefits

associated with using amount of fresh honey. WE HAVE THREE DONKEYS goat soap? We also have elderberry AND EIGHT ALPACAS AS Goat’s milk is incredibly trees, and we make GOAT PROTECTORS; THEY nourishing for the skin. elderberry flower cordial. PROTECT THE GOATS Some of the benefits In two of the paddocks include: we have daffodils. They FROM PREDATORS. WE *Anti-ageing - reduces come up each May and ALSO HAVE THREE HORSES, wrinkles and signs of flower between June THREE CATTLE AND SOME ageing. and September each SHEEP. *Anti-inflammatory year. These and other soothes dry and damaged produce we sell at the skin. “flower stand” we *Essential nutrients have at our driveway contains Vitamins B1, B6, B12, C, D and E. entrance. We also take daffodils to the *Acne - treats acne and other skin Harbourside Markets in Coffs Harbour every conditions. second weekend in those months. We also My soap is handcrafted in small batches. I breed Border Collies and Maremma dogs. have carefully chosen our ingredients to offer Our other main activity here on the farm is the very best soap possible. I am a big fan of our small and growing business harvesting and goat’s milk soap with a good lather and natural selling Dorrigo Pepper (tasmannia stipitata). ingredients and, of course, it must also leave We harvest and dry leaves all year and have a your skin feeling amazing. contract with a large distillery in Sydney. Where do you sell your soap? We also sell berries to restaurants. Berries are Purchases can be through the web page: only available to harvest from March to May www.stellargoatsoap.com.au - we have each year, so quantity is limited. The Dorrigo a Facebook page and Instagram to keep Pepper tree is very narrow in its region for followers up to date with farm happenings. growing happily and is most prolific from Deer We also sell at the “Made in Dorrigo Vale to Ebor. Market” which is held three times a year on Dorrigo Pepper also has a web page: Easter Saturday, the second Saturday in July, dorrigopepper.com.au and also a Facebook and and pre-Christmas on the second Saturday in Instagram page. December. We have quite a few local shops and centres Soap isn't the only product you produce that stock Dorrigo Pepper products: berries, on the land. What are some of the other leaves, ground leaves and infused olive oil. things you have on the farm? Thanks Meredith. We have a bee hive, so we produce a small Coffs Coast focus 67

focusfitness

W I T H D U N C A N M A R C H A N T , C O F F S C O A S T H E A LT H C L U B

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

Five Reasons to Convince Your Friends to Join You in the Gym

n the words of Mary Roma, “exercise loves company”, which is why your gym membership may be more valuable as part of a team. Sure, solo workouts can help you relieve stress after a day or give you some alone time, but a workout buddy can help you in many ways. The best news of all? There’s no better time to convince your friends and family to join in on your healthy lifestyle with you. If you’re already a Coffs Coast Health Club member, your buddy can join without a joining fee, and you will receive two weeks’ free membership. So, call your friends and text your family to tell them that it’s finally time they join the gym with you! If they initially don’t agree with you and jump on board straight away, you can just use the list below to help convince them … How You Benefit from Your Friend Joining You at the Gym 1. Commitment. Some people think it’s hard to commit time out of their day to go to the gym. Having a friend with a gym membership to meet you gives you a scheduled time to stick to and someone waiting on you that you don’t want to disappoint. Even if you don’t complete your entire workout together, it is encouraging to meet up with someone depending on you. 2. Familiarity. Some people find it daunting to start at a new gym and not know where everything can be found. With a friend, you’ll never have to walk into a group fitness class alone again! Being able to find specific machines and workout areas will have you feeling more comfortable getting started and more likely to return to the gym confidently to stay committed to your goals. 3. Time. Some people think a healthy lifestyle can take a lot of time and planning to stick to your healthy habits. If you’re trying to reach a specific goal, meeting up with friends for dinner or cocktails can derail you. By encouraging your friends to also adopt a healthy lifestyle, you can consolidate your time catching up and working

68 Coffs Coast focus

out together, as well as eating slightly more healthy meals together. 4. Fun. You love meeting up with your friends, but some people find hitting the gym after work a different story. By engineering your gym time to be a fun time, your meet up with your friends can make the experience the part of your day you look forward to, rather than dread. This simple way to reframe the situation will make you more motivated to make time for your daily workout. 5. Inspiration. Want your family and friends to make healthier choices? There’s no better way than by setting an example. Health is your greatest wealth, and there’s no better feeling then feeding off each other’s enthusiasm to live a higher quality life together. If you are ready to achieve your goals but would find it easier with someone by your side, then ask around and get started today. Your prime targets are people you have commonality with. Your friends, family, work colleagues, class mates and team mates are your best bet. If you can’t find anyone to join you from the list above … don’t despair! Community based health clubs like ours are well known for their safe and comfortable atmosphere. Many great friendships and even business partnerships have all been sparked by a chance meeting within our club over the past 10 years. Group Exercise Classes, Wellness Coaching and Personal Training also provide the opportunity to workout with someone to help you achieve your goals and are available at both of our clubs. The bottom line is that if you really want to achieve something, you’ll find a way. If you don’t, you’ll find an excuse … so over to you. Make it happen, and start living your best life today! Thanks for sharing, Duncan, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational health and fitness story… Simply call 1300 040 479 or drop in to see the friendly Coffs Coast Health Club team at either Toormina or Moonee Beach to get started today.

The secret to pain-free living may be happy feet

Digital Technology in the Denture Industry

Are you frustrated by ongoing foot, knee, hip or back pain? Do you feel like you’re in the dark about what the cause of the problem is? Mid North Coast Physio continues to utilise state of the art technology in healthcare across their fours clinics on the Coffs Coast and can help you find the answers others miss. By using computerised foot scanning with the Gaitscan system, along with a thorough physical assessment, their team can solve your ongoing pain for good, rather than just short term quick fixes. Owner and leading local physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker tells us why technology plays an important role in finding the cause, rather than just treating symptoms.

ow can having a computerised foot scan help solve my pain? By getting all the information, it’s then much easier for us to find the right solution for your pain. All too often, complaints like bursitis, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, low back pain and many others can be because of poor foot mechanics - you end up like a car with a bad wheel alignment, which leads to excessive wear and tear. By finding what’s going wrong, you can then treat the cause, rather than just symptoms. There is nothing more frustrating than having the same problem coming back again and again, because your therapist is focused on what hurts, rather than what makes it hurt. At Mid North Coast Physio, we want to make sure you are fixed for good, not just for now. What is Gaitscan? Gaitscan is a computerised foot scanning system that is used at Mid North Coast Physio to get very detailed analysis of your foot and lower limb movement and load. The problem

with just watching you walk, or even videoing the movement, is that you aren’t able to measure the impact on the joints or where the impact occurs. Also, on average the foot is only in contact with the ground for about 0.7 seconds with each step, so using state of the art technology allows much better assessment of what is going wrong is a very short space of time. How can I get a FREE Gaitscan computer foot assessment? With clinics in Woolgoolga, Moonee Beach, Toormina and Urunga, we are able to organise an appointment at the most convenient site for you. As a special offer for Coffs Coast FOCUS readers, we are offering a FREE Gaitscan computerised foot assessment to the first 10 callers on 1300 27 37 47. And as an extra bonus, if you require custom made orthotics, you will get $50 off your orthotics purchase. This is strictly limited to the first 15 bookings, so call now to book and find out how to get rid of your pain for good.

hat does the term digital dentures refer to? The term digital dentures describes the inclusion of digital technology in some aspects of the workflow involved in fabricating a full denture. Throughout the process, 3D scanners, printers and dental CAD software are used to deliver more precise and functional dentures. What are the advantages of choosing digital dentures? The accuracy of being able to 3D scan impressions means that prosthetists are able to more precisely fit dentures to the contours of the mouth. This means that digital dentures are functional, aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to wear. Being able to 3D print try-ins also helps to speed up the time that patients have to wait to receive their new dentures. In what way have you implemented digital technology into your practice at Kingdom Denture Clinic? Earlier this year we implemented a 3D printer and scanner and have been working with 3Shape CAD design software to bring our workflow in line with current technology. I have attended several courses and workshops to extend my knowledge and expertise in the

program and have taken a genuine interest in this new system. We have been progressively introducing the new techniques into our practice and are replacing some of our old methods with the new. We are now able to 3D print secondary impression trays, which allows us to get a far more accurate mouth impression. We are now also 3D printing our digital try-ins, which I design completely by CAD. Once our patients are happy with the digital try-in, we manufacture their denture using injection moulding technology with high quality material. The software also allows us to email our 3D CAD designs to a company in Melbourne, who manufacture the framework for our rested partial dentures using a specialised 3D metal laser printer, thus producing lightweight, ultra accurate frameworks that fit well and are comfortable to wear. How do you see your business using digital technology into the future? Technology is constantly changing and suppliers are always doing research, and development to make our products better. At the moment they are developing printable material that will be able to be worn in the mouth on a long term basis, meaning that we will be able to offer services that we have never before been able to. The future of our industry, as with lots of industries, is pretty exciting.

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Introducing from left - Deborah, Rose, Aimee, Laura, and Karen

Community Care Options The backbone of any successful business is its administrative and financial operations. Behind the scenes, or back of house operations, are just as important as service delivery, in ensuring a quality, efficient and sustainable business. Community Care Operations is a complicated business with multiple funding sources, standards, guidelines and legislation with which we must comply. As a business, we reflect and practice effective business management principles - including transparency and accountability to our many stakeholders. August saw us undergo our annual financial audit, which is always a busy time for the Finance and Admin Team. Their effectiveness in managing CCO’s financial and administrative systems and controls placed us in a positive position throughout the auditing process as we ended the 2018/19 financial year. We will hold our AGM on 1st October 2019 to endorse our

70 Coffs Coast focus

Annual Report, reflect upon our achievements and ensure effective governance for the year ahead. Finance Manager Laura Turner has provided superb leadership in directing and developing the systems and processes required to be financially compliant with new government expectations. Karen King looks after our considerable payroll functions. No mean task. Rose Law and Deborah Perry look after, respectively, Suppliers and Debtors. Aimee Hendy provides administrative support as our Customer Service Officer - Finance. CCO’s financial operations have become more sophisticated since the introduction of CDC and the NDIS. A big thank you to a team that is professional, enthusiastic, efficient and diligent in their work. The Finance Team is now located at our head office - Curacoa St., Coffs Harbour.

Tarraray KEY EMPLOYMENT

Pet Retreat

hat is Tarraray pet employees we have ever hired. A number of Retreat? the staff we employed in 2015 still work for us Tarraray Pet today and we hope will stay with us for many Retreat is a unique years to come. One of our biggest success stories concept in pet was an administrative trainee who successfully care offering first completed her qualification with us and has now class facilities to ensure owners’ peace of mind moved on to bigger and better ventures in a when it is necessary to be away from their major city. We have also placed NDIS recipients pets. Tarraray is designed to give your pet the into long lasting work experience placements best of everything, including various styles of and youth into internships. accommodation from five-star luxury suites to What contributes to your success? Key backpackers kennel runs, including doggie day Employment have played a huge part in the care. Also available is our Coffs Harbour pet success of our business, by providing us with grooming service, where we cater for dogs and some of the best staff and then supporting cats of all ages. From a simple not just the employee, but hydro bath and brush to a our business, for as long as complete clipping, wash and we need. Key Employment nail trimming, our salon staff consultants come out and We feel proud that guarantee to have your pet see us regularly and if we have been able to looking and feeling their best there is ever an issue, they support people back to after a visit. are always there to help. independence, providing Let’s talk staff. We first Some of the challenges our opportunities for made contact with Key employees have faced include increased life skills and Employment in 2015, workplace adjustments, initial to earn a wage. and they have been our training and professional employment service of development. Key choice ever since. We have Employment provide support employed over 10 people with disability in that for all of these issues and more, including time, and we now look to Key Employment accessing funding through Jobaccess to purchase for all our staffing needs. We feel proud that workplace modifications to assist staff with we have been able to support people back physical barriers. to independence, providing opportunities for We firmly believe that diversity and inclusion increased life skills and to earn a wage. Our make for the best workplaces, and we are so business philosophy is one of fairness and grateful to Key Employment for helping us make equitable access to choice and success. We love our team the best that it can be. We would that we can live by this motto and really give highly recommend Key Employment to any people a fair go. business owners out there looking to diversify Let’s talk successes. The people we have their staff with dedicated and reliable people. employed from Key Employment have been Just call Steve on (02) 66919 999, and he will some of the most reliable, loyal and hardworking help you out anyway he can.

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Resource C

THE MEN’S RESOURCE CENTRE HERE IN COFFS HARBOUR IN ROSE AVE. HAS HELPED MORE THAN 8,000 MEN AND THEIR FAMILIES SINCE IT OPENED ITS DOORS IN 2005.

heir aim is to provide a first point of contact for men and their families in the Coffs Harbour Mid North Coast region who find themselves in a position of need. They offer men and their families access to a variety of services, courses and personnel. We sat down with Jodie and the team, to find out much more. Can you tell us more about how the Men’s Resource Centre came about? The Men’s Resource Centre is one of a number of services provided under the banner of Bridging the Gap Community Services Inc., which was founded by Jean Clayton in 2005. BTGCS covers many services, including women and youth; however, the Men’s Resource Centre became the prominent focus, because it was the gap that Jean felt needed bridging the most. Having worked in community services for much of her life, she noted that men are often overlooked by existing services, especially in cases of familial breakdowns, where existing services tend to cater more for women and children. Jean has a special interest in mental health, suicide prevention and reducing recidivism, and the Men’s Resource Centre addresses these important issues and has been working quietly in the background saving lives, restoring justice, providing hope, education, counselling, feeding the homeless and simply doing the work required unfunded and unpaid. You have a new premises in Rose Avenue. Can you tell us how that came to pass? Yes, we have a beautiful home, that was donated to us by Bruce Hibbard and his partner, Bronwyn Stephens, who have seen the work that Jean has been doing over these many years and the impact that the service had made on the lives of many men in this community. In return, they wished to give this space so this service can continue. We now have vegetable gardens built by some of our clients that are providing food for our lunch time table and a place where people can come and feel at home. What is your role, Jodie - and tell us about the team you have running the centre.

I came on board as a volunteer after hearing about the amazing work that Jean and her team had accomplished in the community in the past 15 years. I am now the Executive Officer, working beside Jean to not only facilitate the working of the Men’s Resource Centre, but to expand the operation to reach the original vision that Jean had in 2005 to be a service to the whole community, that would include services for women and youth. My son, Jeremy, born and bred in Coffs Harbour, has moved back from running a business in Sydney to head up a team of motivated young people who want to make a difference in the community they love and in which they also will bring up their children. It is our hope that as we grow, we will not only support those in need through the services we provide, but we will also provide jobs and opportunities for the younger generation, who bring a fresh vision and youthful insight into the issues facing men, women, youth and families today. Why do you think it is so important to have a facility like this available in the community? While the Coffs Coast area is known for its natural beauty and a lifestyle that matches, we know the reality of life for many in this area is not all sunshine. The rate of violent crime, domestic violence and drug and alcohol abuse in this region are some of the highest in the state. A lack of affordable housing, driven by the increasing popularity of the area, means homelessness is on the rise - again, in a manner that is higher on average than the rest of the state, across all of which homelessness has increased markedly over recent years. We are located directly in between two major correctional centres, with Kempsey set to almost double in size by the end of this year and Grafton’s “super prison”, that will house 1,700 inmates from next year, so we believe this service is more imperative for Coffs Harbour than ever before. What services does the Men’s Resource Centre provide?

Each individual who walks through our doors or is referred to us is individually case managed, as each person’s situation and needs differ. Our clients come from all walks of life, from older men who are seeking companionship, to young men who are finding their way in life and everything in between. We provide counselling, free for those who are financially disadvantage; Advocacy and court support; EAPA vouchers; Work direction order; And a range of 10 week programmes: anger management, cooking on a budget, Drug and Alcohol, and Triple P parenting. We provide our clients with breakfast and lunch, currently three days a week, and also offer take home meals and food when required. We offer assistance in finding accommodation and long term housing, which is a particular issue for those who come out of gaol and one for which we continue to examine possibilities and resources to better provide support around this growing issue. What growth are you looking at in the future? We are not the kind to dream small. We have far reaching visions for the operation and expansion of BTGCS. We are currently working on project proposals for a community hub and for an alternative temporary housing concept to tackle issues we see in the local community every day: elevated youth incarceration rates, drug abuse, and homelessness. We aim to bring more modalities of health and wellbeing into practice within, and beyond, the walls of our current and future centres of operation, of which the Men’s Resources Centre is the first. We also want to offer programmes and opportunities to help increase the work-readiness and resilience of our clients, as well as helping them to connect with the greater community and to address the underlying issues and processes which have brought them to walk through our doors in the first place. Our Community Services Manager, Tod, is in the process of starting a Men’s Group that will

run fortnightly and will incorporate weekend retreats and adventure activities. For these projects and many more, we are currently seeking funding and volunteers. Currently because we are unfunded, we open the Men’s Resource Centre only three days per week. Our intention is to open five days by next year, with all programmes up and running. How does this place operate with regards to funding? This service has run unfunded and unpaid for 15 years and has achieved amazing things over this time, having case managed over 8,000 clients in this time. It operates mostly through donations and in more recent years through the C.ex sleepout and, of course, through our dedicated volunteers. However, due to the growing demand for the services we provide, it is imperative that we now get funding from other sources, and we are currently applying for grants and seeking help from the community, from Council and from our local representatives. As a charitable organisation, we are also tax deductible for those who want to donate. Can people get involved? Do you require volunteers? Yes, we are looking for qualified personnel, especially in the area of counsellors, and hoping we may find some people who have retired and would like to give back to the community, or university and TAFE students looking for placement opportunities and of course, administrative skills and help around grants, content administration and research would be most welcome. We require a team of people to help us get funding, so together we might help others in need. Also, donations of food would be appreciated by the many who come in seeking food for their families. How can you be contacted, and how can we find out more? Please contact Jodie or Jeremy at 181 Rose Avenue, Coffs Harbour, or call (02) 5606 2167 for more information. Thanks Jodie. Coffs Coast focus 71

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

October 2019

East Coast Cabinets Spring has sprung. The weather has warmed up, and everyone is out and motivated to do things. Whilst we are looking forward to the smoke disappearing, it may take a few more weeks. This year’s Northern NSW Housing Industry Awards Night held on 14th September was most successful, with over 200 attendees and major winners coming from as far afield as Warialda, Quirindi, Tamworth, Armidale, Cundleton, Port Macquarie and Grafton, as well as Coffs Harbour, Sapphire and Woolgoolga. We are particularly pleased that one of our builders, Solitary Designer Homes, won the Award for Dual Occupancy Development (two to 10 units) with their two residence development in Woolgoolga. They have been very successful over the years, and we have been happily associated with them for a long time. A big congratulations must go to local builder, Eric Horspool, for winning the HIA Northern NSW Home of the Year for the third consecutive year. It is very interesting to note that our region has very successful tradesmen who actually work on the jobs themselves and are not just managing the jobs that others do. Christmas is fast approaching, and it is time to start thinking of your requirements prior to the event.

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

You are gifted at manifesting. If you acknowledge yourself with gratitude when you manifest, your ability will grow enormously. Try doing a wishing ceremony in nature. Think of what you want, feel its excitement, then let it go with gratitude, as if you have it already. Clear Quartz amplifies our gifts.

You are currently clearing out anything that prevents your success. Old friends may move on, for new ones to fill their place. Now is a good time to clear out negativity from your mind, body and heart. This will attract kindred souls to you. Rose Quartz is the crystal of love.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You will be likely to step into new circumstances soon. Don’t allow delays to dissuade you; instead, use your gift of inner sight, and visualise your outcome. From there, keep sight of the passion for what you are pursuing. Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

You are a wise old soul and hold great knowledge within; don’t be afraid to share it - you are a natural-born teacher. To avoid spending too much time in your own head, spend more time in nature. (Great discipline for being in the now!) Lapis Lazuli is the stone of wisdom.

When you’re feeling out of sorts, try sitting listening to the sounds of the ocean. With each wave in, allow each emotion to engulf you, and then see it completely wash out to sea when the wave recedes. Ten minutes of this kind of “Scorpio” therapy is very powerful. Apophyllite tip placed on the third eye helps to see clearly.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Now is great timing to fulfil a dream that you have held for a long time or from a long time ago. List everything needed to complete the project, and take action. If you keep focused on the outcome and stay connected to your nurturer, you will not be able to fail. Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

Time for movement and change. Set some fresh goals, then you can start with beliefs and attitudes and clear out the old to make way for the new. Be aware of your thoughts, and only entertain uplifting ones. Laugh at your fears and become the answers to them. Pyrite will bring back courage.

Don’t be too serious.! You are the life of the party and when you are feeling down, everyone will feel it. Your fears engulf you when your thoughts become critical of yourself. Prank, play, laugh, lighten up and BE the difference. Turquoise boosts our self-confidence and esteem.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Adventure and surprises are likely to fill your thoughts and heart. Find something stimulating to learn about, and its opportunity will be likely to cross your path on your adventures. Discovery of new talents can be anticipated, bringing a feeling of fulfilling destiny or fate. Danburite connects us to our higher consciousness

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Feeling suspended should dissipate soon. Reflect on the last six months and heal any undigested emotions. Try listing everything you wish to release and burn it on the full moon. Your higher self does not want your future to have to deal with your past. Aquamarine releases negativity from our entire being.

You have been so focused on other people’s traumas, that you began to lose yourself. Spending time in nature will earth you and ground you, where you naturally feel more content within. It is time for you now, so spoil yourself with some “time-out” time. Clear quartz amplifies strength.

You’re likely to have some big changes with career soon that could be blessings in disguise. Avoid slipping into fear or selfdoubt; stay connected to your ability to see opportunity just waiting to be accessed and enjoy your success. Carnelian is a terrific stone for focus and productivity.

From the speaking stages of NYC and Europe, Coffs Harbour welcomes

KATE TOON I wanted to start by saying a big congratulations to our last BWN speaker #linkedinlocal founder Anna McAfee, for being a finalist in the NSW Business Chamber’s Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards. She represented the region alongside fellow women in business Letisha Johnston, Jasmine Swe, Jemma Frame, Kirsty Christensen and Kyla Holley.

was lucky enough to be at the event on 13th world and runs several hugely successful Facebook groups. September in Port Macquarie with these awesome Author of the Amazon Best Seller, Confessions of a Misfit women, who are doing the Coffs Coast proud, Entrepreneur: How to Succeed in Business Despite Yourself representing the region in the Start-up Superstar (which you will be able to purchase at the event), Kate lives category for my business, Cath Fowler Marketing. on the Central Coast, where she loves wandering on the We loved Anna’s talk at our last event, all about beach with her son and her CFO (Chief Furry Office-dog) personal branding. It was great to see so many new, as well as Pomplemousse. And while Pomp won’t be making the trip some familiar faces in the crowd. to Coffs, we hope Kate loves exploring the many beaches we If you are working in a small to large corporate or not-forhave here on the Coffs Coast. profit here on the Coffs Coast, run your own business, or are How to get more done and overcome self-doubt a freelancer, you’ll be made to feel welcome in our friendly If you’d asked Kate Toon five years ago whether she’d have networking environment. There is no been running conferences, writing membership fee to join BWN; simply books, speaking at international events purchase a ticket to one of our events, and making the big money, she’d have and you’ll instantly become a member. laughed in your face. Or ugly cried. And now for the exciting news about But here she is. Doing it all. And the Kate is a writing our October event, which is set to be our question she’s most often asked is, entrepreneur, as well as biggest event yet - and we predict a sell how? a popular coach, speaker, out crowd. In her presentation on how to get author and podcaster. BWN October event more done and overcome self-doubt, Her digital education businesses, Our October event sees us heading Kate is going to take you through: The Recipe for SEO Success and back to Opal Cove Resort for breakfast. • The practical ways in which The Clever Copywriting School As premium sponsors, Opal Cove have she scaled her business without have helped more than 8,000 always looked after us well, and we compromising my lifestyle. small business owners grapple can’t wait to head back there. Let’s see • How she sells out her products and the Google beast and write better if we can get another sell-out crowd like services with zero advertising content. we did back in February with Sharon • How she overcame her self-limiting Chisolm’s talk. beliefs to find her true potential It’s only fitting that one of Sharon’s • The three questions she asks and my favourite people is our October speaker. We are super herself when making any business decision excited to have Kate Toon coming to talk to us. • How she looks fear in the face and does it anyway Kate is a writing entrepreneur, as well as a popular Regardless of if you work for an organisation or you run coach, speaker, author and podcaster. Her digital education your own business, as someone who has travelled to Brisbane, businesses, The Recipe for SEO Success and The Clever Sydney and Melbourne to hear Kate speak, I have no doubt Copywriting School have helped more than 8,000 small you will get lots out of listening to Kate share her story. business owners grapple the Google beast and write better You can purchase tickets by visiting our Facebook page. content. With more than half the available tickets already sold, you’ll Kate was the only female finalist for the SEMRush SEO want to get in quick to make sure you don’t miss out! Personality of the Year. She presents at events around the Cath x Coffs Coast focus 73

PROSPER Coffs Harbour L I M I T E D

an you tell us a bit about what Prosper Coffs Harbour does? Prosper Coffs Harbour is a notfor-profit company, established to administer three charitable trusts. Currently our focus is on the development of the Coffs Harbour Protection of the Environment Trust and The Coffs Harbour Cultural Trust. The funds from these trusts are used to finance cultural and environmental projects that proactively contribute to the local community, as recommended by the volunteer trust advisory committees and overseen by a Board of Directors. The Board of Directors as featured in the below picture include: Steve McGrath Board Director, Cr. Denise Knight, Martin Wells, Andrew Beswick, Leonie Henschke, Dave Munro, Ann Gee and Leslie Juhasz. Also featured is Melissa Nunn, Fundraising Manager for Prosper Coffs Harbour. Tell us about the trusts; how do they

74 Coffs Coast focus

benefit the community? The Coffs Harbour Protection of the Environment Trust provides a source of funding to promote protection and enhancement of the natural environment within the local government area. This includes targeted rehabilitation and restoration, acquisition of high conservation lands, biodiversity incentives and improving our knowledge and understanding of the environment. The Coffs Harbour Cultural Trust funds projects identified as important for cultural development in the local government area. The trust aims to further the depth of cultural life in the region, by fostering the vision of the region’s creative industries and creating access to a wider variety of cultural products and services. What are some upcoming projects Prosper Coffs Harbour is working on? The Coffs Harbour Cultural Trust currently has a Youth Scholarship programme to assist emerging artists aged between 13 - 21 in the

local government area. Applicants can seek assistance to attend training and professional development courses or workshops inside or outside the local government area, which will further their long term career. The Environmental Trust recently received funding under the NSW Governments “My Community Project” fund to undertake rehabilitation work at the Woolgoolga Lakeside Reserve. The works will include establishing a walking track between the reserve and the beach. The lake embankment will also be stabilised to prevent further erosion and loss of mature trees through a coir wall and revegetation. The trust will be working with Coffs Harbour City Council to deliver this project in 2020. In November 2019, the Environmental Trust will be hosting the “Young Inventors Solar Challenge”. The challenge will involve students from local secondary schools in years 7 - 8 entering teams to create a solar powered invention that has practical application. The

challenge will provide an opportunity for students to put their ideas and skills to the test, and a chance to do something to help the world around them. The Environmental Trust is currently crowdfunding for a Seabin at the Coffs Harbour Marina to reduce plastic pollution in our oceans and waterways. The Seabin will collect floating rubbish, such as large plastic bags, bottles, plastic straws, coffee cups, food wrappers, surface oils and micros plastics down to 2 mm small, before they escape into our oceans. How do people get involved in Prosper Coffs Harbour projects? People interested in finding out more about Prosper Coffs Harbour projects and how to donate should head to the website www.prosercoffs.org.au and our social media pages. We also encourage the community to contact us with any questions they may have we would love to hear from you!

Why you need email marketing in your business Healthy Towns Woolgoolga It was great to launch the Healthy Towns Woolgoolga Community Action Plan recently. The Federal Government has provided $100,000 funding, which is available for local projects. These include Men’s Health Programmes, Nutrition and Cooking Programmes, safe driving courses, suicide prevention training, a website, community calendar, monthly newsletter and much more. Work on the new $3.9 million Woolgoolga Surf Lifesaving Clubhouse is coming along. The club came to me concerned about the poor state of the clubhouse and the lack of storage space. Life-saving equipment had to be stored in homes, meaning slower response times. When finished, the new building will include

multiple storage facilities for surf rescue equipment, a state-of-the-art patrol room, a First Aid room, a public café, function and training rooms, a kitchen and a gymnasium. Local volunteer members and the local community deserve to have the very best surf lifesaving facilities. This upgrade is from Federal and State Government grants. I recently announced a $1.1 million grant to construct a Whale Trail in Woolgoolga. This will provide an integral link between the town and headland. The project includes pedestrian access, viewing platforms, car parking, seating/ picnic shelters, landscaping/revegetation and fitness nodes. Great for locals and tourists, which is great news for our local businesses.

For years, email marketing was seen as a dead marketing channel, but in fact, it’s one of the highest ROI (return on investment) marketing activities … For every $1 spent on email, it generates $38 in sales revenue (Salesforce, 2018). Now, that’s impressive! Here are four reasons why you need to incorporate email marketing into your business now: 1. Nurtures your leads - You can promote your product or services through relevant content, case studies, testimonials and offers, like eBooks or webinars, giving more value and driving credibility with your leads to choose your brand over a competitor. 2. Drives sales - You can now use tools like abandoned cart or retargeting on social media to drive prospects to purchase your product over another. Sending abandoned

cart emails results in 69% more orders than a single email (Omnisend, 2018). 3. Increases customer retention - Research suggests that email marketing can drive up to 80% customer retention rates (Emarsy, 2018) - that’s loyal customers who continue to use and potentially promote your brand to their network. 4. Personalisation potential - You can use tools like HubSpot to get to know your prospect/customers’ attributes through data insights. When you use this knowledge to personalise and segment emails direct to them based on their needs, you are more likely to drive sales in your business. Want to know more, say hello@cornerpostcreative.com.au and we’ll help you master email marketing for your business!

The average return for email marketing is $38 for every dollar invested. Salesforce, 2018

BOOK A FREE EMAIL MARKETING ASSESSMENT WITH SAM & BIANCA! Find out more visit: www.cornerpost.biz/email cornerpostcreative.com.au

9188 5013

COR NER POST

CREATIVE

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Revitalisation of Coﬀs Harbour’s City Square is A KEY STR ATEGIC INVESTMENT TO ENHANCE COFFS CITY CENTRE’S CAPACITY TO STIMULATE ECONOMIC GROWTH and meet evolving social and cultural demands on the Coﬀs Coast.

M a s t e r p l a n

OCUS caught up with some of the key people involved, to find out more about the future for the Coffs City Centre. We spoke with Coffs Harbour Mayor, Cr. Denise Knight, the Coffs Harbour City Council General Manager, Steve McGrath, and prominent local architect Oliver Gee. The $2 million City Square rebuild is the latest of a number of City Centre projects to be completed. What is the goal of the projects, and where is the money coming from? Councillor Knight: Revitalisation of City Square is one of the key projects identified in the comprehensive Coffs Harbour City Centre Masterplan 2031, which was created in partnership with business and community stakeholders to encourage long-term investment and establish the City Centre as the core retail, entertainment and cultural precinct of the city. Visitors and locals expect a city the size of Coffs Harbour to have an urban centre that is safe and appealing, day or night. Social benefits will flow from the upgrade, creating an attractive environment that will encourage residential living within the City Centre. Coffs City Centre will be a destination featuring world-class design, a unique and creative streetscape. City Square sets this tone, not only through design, but through the growing community relationship with the space. Steve McGrath: City Centre planning strategies, cultural initiatives and investment incentives lay the foundations to encourage long-term growth in the CBD, through flourishing retail, business, and greater diversity in leisure and cultural choices. 76 Coffs Coast focus

THERE ARE SOME EXCITING CONCEPTS ALREADY UNDERWAY, AND IN THE PLANNING STAGES, TO ACTIVATE AND BEAUTIFY OUR CBD LANEWAYS.

Major projects recently completed in the City Centre have, for the most part, been financed by the property owners in the CBD, who contribute to a special levy generating a $10 million base investment for infrastructure, including the City Square upgrade and construction of new shade sails to give the CBD a unique identity and improve pedestrian connections. We’ve also invested in traffic safety improvements and completed significant upgrades of our multi-storey carparks in Castle Street and Park Avenue. What are some of the features of the new City Square? Oliver Gee: City Square is now a safer and more flexible space for markets and events and for night-time dining and entertainment. Elements of public art created by local artisans help to reaffirm the location as a social and cultural hub. The whole Square has been repaved, and there is attractive and contemporary lighting, including key lighting, ground lighting, fairy lights in the trees and a feature light show projector that is interactive - City Square visitors can have some fun and activate various lighting scenes. Locally-crafted timber tables and benches feature public art elements and provide communal dining nooks among the trees and around the cafes and restaurants. Now, diners can take their own lunch into the Square or go as a group and dine from various menus in the Square, and eat at the same table.

There are also event facilities to support attractions like the Coffs Coast Growers Markets, as well as other events or entertainment.” Steve McGrath: Safety is an important consideration for people when they want to enjoy a night out in the city. Council secured grant funding to assist in providing CCTV security cameras throughout the Square. There are also security upgrades to the Park Avenue car park and the pedestrian laneway just adjacent. Cr Denise Knight: Restaurateurs, businesses and residents helped refine designs for City Square. This input is vital in creating a place that will attract visitors and meet the needs of traders, event organisers and others who can make this a vibrant location. So where to now, with the Coffs City Centre? Steve McGrath: City Centre Masterplan projects are progressively implemented by Council, while investors, businesses and others are taking up opportunities that present themselves through this strategic plan. The Coffs City Centre Masterplan Committee is an advisory committee, who form the vital link with community and cultural groups, event organisers and businesses to help implement the plan. The committee includes volunteers from the CBD, including businesspeople, investors, retailers and the community. Oliver Gee is the current community representative and also the Chair of the Committee. His experience in revitalising various commercial and social areas across the city adds value to the advisory committee for the next phases.

Oliver Gee: Many of the projects financed by the CBD property levy have now been completed. We continue to work to maximise the growth and social opportunities that now arise for the City Centre. We’re investigating options for smart parking systems for the Castle Street car park, which would provide electronic updates on parking availability. Over the next few years there is funding available to enhance the streetscapes in the CBD, to make our streets much safer and more attractive for pedestrians. We have funding to support and encourage events and cultural activities and to stimulate that vibrancy we want to achieve. This will make the CBD a destination that is valued by our community and also make the CBD an attractive option for people considering Coffs Harbour as destination for a holiday, for shopping, dining and entertainment or for business and investment. There are some exciting concepts already underway, and in the planning stages, to activate and beautify our CBD laneways. This opens up interesting arts and cultural opportunities for creative communities and for encouraging new, vibrant entertainment and dining hubs. I see the proposed Cultural and Civic Space as being significant. It is aligned with the economic and social objectives of the City Centre Masterplan. I have been involved in this project for a long time, since 2016, as a part of Council's project team. Head along to the City Square Official Opening Celebrations on Friday, October 4, from 5pm until 9:30pm. The night features free entertainment, with a band, a comedian and star Buskers from the Coffs Harbour International Buskers and Comedy Festival.

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focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

LISA Telford YOGA for the SEASONS

elcome, Lisa. Tell us a little about yourself… I’ve been lucky enough to live in Coffs for 11 years. I live near the beach and enjoy the beauty of this area. I’m an ex corporate chick who found this “strange” (back then) thing called yoga. I lost two dress sizes, felt happy, and then swapped the suit and office for yoga pants and a mat. I started my yoga journey with four years of dedicated teacher training, and I have been teaching now for 21 years. I dearly love what I do. I make people feel good! You have had a long and exciting career teaching yoga around the world. Can you share the highlights of your journey to date? Oh, there have been many; being involved with Yoga TV™ Switched on Living (which aired throughout Australian and overseas), I founded YogaTV™ Body Movement Centre in Sydney, being flown to Paris and Morocco with a Hollywood Actress as her personal teacher, running retreats in Asian countries, being invited to Sri Lanka to be the teacher in residence at a very exclusive private property were all fun, but honestly, seeing people “blossom” after a class is my real highlight. People who have chronic body pain/injuries, who don’t sleep, who live with anxiety and depression, stress and little selfconnection leave a class being pain free, feeling stronger, calmer, more connected and at ease basically happy. This is where the highlights and richness are for me. What inspired you to become a yoga teacher? I am not your traditional looking yoga teacher. 78 Coffs Coast focus

I am a woman with curves! As mentioned, I worked in the corporate world, being a very busy executive. I was quite disconnected from myself, stressed, unhealthy and quite “voluptuous” - my mother badgered me into going to try a class. After my first class - I felt different. Good different. Being a bit of a cynic, I went back to see if it was a one off - but no, the great feeling continued, and grew! I lost weight, slept really well, felt so much happier and clearer. I felt my body strengthen, found flexibility; plus, I no longer felt like eating badly. I felt great! So, I took the leap. I left the corporate world to learn more. I have since trained in many different yoga styles and traditions. My passion, excitement and choice to teach came when I found Japanese Yoga. I saw the real healing benefits it gives. It isn’t about touching your toes or contorting yourself in odd positions, nor being skinny. It’s about feeling great in your skin. Enjoying your body, no matter what size, creating health, happiness, balance and overall wellbeing; plus, healing injuries to enable better movement - pain free. Yoga gives you more mobility - enabling a bigger and enriched life experience, all by just moving for an hour at a time! (Can you tell I love what yoga does!) Yoga for the Seasons is your local yoga studio. What can people expect from attending your classes? I tailor each class to those present. I ask each person what their “sore bits” are for that day and what they wish to work and then design the class to aid them then and there. There are no pretzel like moves, no omming and chanting, you don’t have to be flexible, nor do you have to wear funky yoga pants. We laugh, move well, and I can happily say I have the best students -

who can be beautifully cheeky, which only adds to the atmosphere. We work - we have fun doing so. We move our bodies to health. All fitness levels, body shapes and abilities are welcome. It is a really welcoming space, and we have built a gorgeous community. Our new studio is located at 22 Marcia Street, alongside Tribe Athletica, and we also have classes in Woolgoolga too. What sort of yoga do you teach, and how can it benefit people’s wellbeing? As mentioned earlier, Yoga for the Seasons is Japanese yoga. It’s more Yoga Therapy. It integrates Hatha yoga with the meridian based healing arts of Asia and the Five Element Theory (Fire, Earth, Metal, Water, Wood). We not only strengthen the body, but also aid organ function. Yoga for the Seasons helps align us to each season and the related organ health and attributes of each season. In this modern world, we can get so disconnected - we forget we are part of nature. This creates Dis-Ease (or disease). We need to get back in balance. As an example - after the hibernation of winter, spring time is the time to heal the liver and gallbladder; we blossom open (like nature) and we can see all the new possibilities and opportunities the seasons brings. In class we do more twisting, side opening, stretching type moves. It differs each season. It’s often a paradox to think of yoga and business in the same train of thought, but what do you think are the best forms of marketing for your business? Ha - yes. When I first started, I was told not to mix your passion and commerce. For me, it has been the best thing. For 21 years, this is all I have done. It works, as I love and care about what I do. I know my craft, and people sense this. People know instantly if you are good at your

work or not. To my mind, the best form of marketing is word of mouth - happy students. Be great at what you do - train, know your talents, be flexible (no joke intended), enjoy it, be authentic and stay humble, and the word then spreads. I do now use social media as well, Facebook and Instagram, as it is great to share class video snippets or seasonal advice and upcoming events/ class times, as I have two locations, Woolgoolga and Coffs. I can target each group specifically. You’re well known among local yogis for the great workshops and retreats that you offer. Can you tell us what you have planned upcoming? Lots coming up! In addition to regular classes and Seasonal Workshops, we have an exciting new event of an outdoor (shaded) two hour yoga/massage/relaxation class, plus a delicious long lunch with phenomenal seasonal farm to plate food held at Riverbreeze Farm, Macksville. I’m also starting an over 50s, eight-week program of yoga and functional fitness (in conjunction with Tribe Athletica) as well as a fourweek course for achieving better sleep. We also run teens yoga classes, corporate yoga classes, and we’ll be doing a Vietnam Yoga Retreat in August 2020. And if you can’t get to class just yet, I also have a weekly radio show, “Eat PLAY Love” on 104.1CHY that shares health tips and interviews local health, wellbeing and body movement professionals. What advice would you give someone considering trying yoga for the first time? Seriously - just turn up! Give a class a try. If you don’t like it you never have to do it again. If you do, it could be your new favourite thing! Thanks Lisa.

Before

After

Why we service Air Cons! Many new cars are now equipped with air conditioning. Most people rely heavily on this feature every day during the hot summer months, though of late you may not have needed it as much as you would’ve liked. Generally, air conditioning units are reliable and are subject to few problems. However, that doesn’t mean that there will never be problems, or that there won’t come a time when your automobile’s air conditioning system requires some sort of service. The air conditioning systems used inside most cars are very complex and are made up of a system of interconnected components. Because of this complexity, it can be quite costly to have it repaired. More often than not, it is easier and less expensive to repair a car’s air conditioning system at the first sign of trouble, rather than ignoring the problem and allowing it to degenerate into a much more costly repair later on. It is much better to bring your vehicle us and to have the problem diagnosed by professionals. If you want to ensure that your vehicle’s air conditioning system is as safe and efficient as you’d like it to be, make sure you have it serviced regularly. Take advantage of our free system test and quote.

Cosmedicentre at Toogetha Is this you? ... Scalp Micro Pigmentation is available at Cosmedicentre’s private suite situated in Toogetha, 36 Moonee Street. Scalp Micro Pigmentation is a sophisticated and artistic cosmetic treatment that disguises balding or thinning hair. This treatment applies to men and women, as hair loss can be distressing. Hair loss and/or thinning at an early age can affect one’s confidence. Micro Pigmentation is a non-surgical solution, improving the appearance of hair density. Using a single needle, we apply tiny dots of pigment, organically reoccurring, to the scalp. Cosmedicentre also provides cosmetic eyebrow tattooing. For more information and a free consultation, please call 1800 953 535. Cosmedicentre is a medical practice that provides cosmetic tattoo and injectable treatment, including anti-wrinkle injections and dermal filler. We are a part of the specialist ophthalmology medical practice Australian Eye Care. Accordingly, we practice medicine that is fully compliant with guidelines from the New South Wales medical board, AHPRA, TGA and other regulators in a fully equipped specialist medical practice. Administered professionally, these medicines are a safe and proven effective treatment. However, like anything in medicine, they do not come with zero risk. As such, Cosmedicentre is part of the cosmetic profession and not part of the cosmetic industry. We do not and will not try to sell you anything. We provide you with the option of a cosmetic medical service if that is in your best interest and your informed decision.

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focusMotoring.

Motor

Motor mouth rating

WITH CARL BENNETT FROM MERCEDES BENZ COFFS COAST

CLA

9.5/10

Mercedes Benz

Coupe

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA200

The all new Mercedes Benz CLA Coupe has arrived at Mercedes Benz Coﬀs Coast, and what a cracker of a car it is; new body, new platform, new interior, new technology and a new, more reﬁned look, thanks to the adoption of Benz’s latest smooth styling.

he CLA200 has been loaded with a new 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine, making 120 kW/250 Nm front-wheel drive, with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The CLA250 arriving later this year will come with a 2.0 Litre engine with an output of 165 kW/350 Nm, or better again is the CLA350 with the same 2.0 Litre engine and an output of 225 kW/400 Nm, both being 4-matic (all-wheel drive). The CLA’s dimensions have changed, too, now measuring 4,688 mm long (+48 mm), 1,830 mm wide (+53 mm), 1,439 mm tall (-2 mm) and with a 2,729 mm wheelbase (+30 mm). Despite a drop in height, the new CLA Coupe has increased head, shoulder and elbow room for both front and rear occupants, while the boot aperture is also now widened to 262 mm. Built on the same platform as the A-Class hatch and sedan, the CLA Coupe

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features multi-link rear suspension as push-button start and keyless entry. standard, and the expanded dimensions Safety gear extends to automatic mean an increased front and rear track headlights and wipers, adaptive high width of 63 beams, blind-spot mm and 55 mm monitoring, lanerespectively. keep assist, traffic Inside, the CLA sign recognition and the brand’s new the brand’s “Active Built on the same platform MBUX multimedia Brake Assist” semias the A-Class hatch and system is displayed autonomous braking. sedan, the CLA Coupe on a 10.25-inch The CLA Coupe is features multi-link rear centre touchscreen, a smooth and stylish suspension as standard, complete with ride. It handles well and the expanded dimensions satellite navigation, both around town mean an increased front and digital radio, and on the open road; rear track width of 63 mm and Apple CarPlay and comfortable seats 55 mm respectively. Android Auto, and ample leg room Bluetooth, natural for front and rear language voice passengers, paired commands, and Mercedes me Connect with light steering and an engine that smartphone app functionality. shifts easily through the gears ensures Standard equipment on the CLA 200 you’ll enjoy this car every drive. includes an “AMG Line” exterior styling The CLA Coupe is covered by Mercedeskit, automatic climate control, sports seats, Benz’s three-year/unlimited kilometre 64-colour ambient lighting system, 18-inch warranty, with service intervals every 12 wheels, wireless smartphone charger, months or 25,000 km.

PRICING AND SPECIFICATIONS Price $59,500 (plus on-road costs) Engine 1.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol Output 120 kW/250 Nm Transmission Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic Fuel 5.7 L/100 km (ADR Combined) CO2 130 g/km (ADR Combined) Safety Rating Five-star ANCAP

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA250 PRICING AND SPECIFICATIONS Price $68,800 (plus on-road costs) Engine 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol Output 165 kW/350 Nm Transmission Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic Fuel 6.7 L/100 km (ADR Combined) CO2 151 g/km (ADR Combined) Safety Rating Five-star ANCAP

2019 Mercedes-Benz CLA35 PRICING AND SPECIFICATIONS Price $83,400 (plus on-road costs) Engine 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol Output 225 kW/400 Nm Transmission Seven-speed dual-clutch automatic Fuel 7.5 L/100 km (ADR Combined) CO2 169 g/km (ADR Combined) Safety Rating Five-star ANCAP

Overseas model with options shown. Overseas model with options shown.

Play by by your your rules. rules. Play Play by your rules. Play by your rules.

Overseas model with options shown. Overseas model with options shown.

The all new CLA Coupé has arrived at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast and has been designed with you in mind. Striking The all new CLA Coupé has arrived at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast and has been designed with you in mind. Striking and confident, it features an eye-catching diamond grille, 18” AMG alloys, and sleek AMG bodystyling to truly stand out. and confident, it features an eye-catching diamond grille, 18” AMG alloys, and sleek AMG bodystyling to truly stand out. A luxurious cabin provides user-friendly technology such as the MBUX multimedia system that intuitively responds to your A luxurious cabin provides user-friendly such as the MBUX multimedia system that intuitively to your The all new CLA Coupé hasvoice arrived attechnology Mercedes-Benz Coast and has been designed you inresponds mind. Striking touch and demands. RediscoverCoffs your driving passion and play by yourwith rules. Theconfident, all new CLA Coupé haseye-catching arrived at Mercedes-Benz Coast and has designed you to in truly mind.stand Striking touch and voice demands. Rediscover yourAMG driving passion and by bodystyling yourwith rules. and it features an diamond grille, Coffs 18” alloys, and been sleekplay AMG out. confident, features an eye-catching diamond grille, and sleek AMGthat bodystyling truly stand Experience the technology all new CLAsuch Coupé today at alloys, Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. Aand luxurious cabinit provides user-friendly as18” theAMG MBUX multimedia system intuitivelytoresponds to out. your Experience the all new CLA Coupé today at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. A luxurious cabin provides user-friendly technology such as the MBUX multimedia system that intuitively responds to your touch and voice demands. Rediscover your driving passion and play by your rules. https://www.mbcoffscoast.com.au touch and voice demands. Rediscover your driving passion and play by your rules. https://www.mbcoffscoast.com.au Experience the all new CLA Coupé today at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. Experience the all new CLA Coupé today at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. https://www.mbcoffscoast.com.au https://www.mbcoffscoast.com.au

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour

02 6648 3519 DL3461 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au 02 6648 3519 DL3461 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au

Repco Park Beach Home Base

McHappy Day

McHappy Day 2019 will take place on Saturday 16th November, where McDonald’s will raise much needed funds and celebrate our wonderful cause. Last year, McHappy Day raised an amazing $4.9m for Ronald McDonald House Charites Australia. We are looking forward to another successful day!

hat is McHappy Day? Each year, all McDonald’s restaurants across Australia host McHappy Day, supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities Australia. This annual contribution assists Ronald McDonald House Charities to support more families with seriously ill children. Who are you helping on McHappy Day? When a child is diagnosed with a serious illness, it impacts the whole family. Lives can be turned upside down. That’s why Ronald McDonald House Charities provide a range of programmes to help families stay together and close to the care they need. In 2018 alone, Ronald McDonald House Charities helped support 57,000 families with seriously ill children. How to support RMHC on McHappy Day? Visit a McDonald’s Restaurant on Saturday, 16th November. There are many ways to donate: $2 or $10 Helping Hands $5 Silly Socks 10c from every water sold goes directly to RMHC $2 from every Big Mac sold on Mc Happy Day goes directly to RMHC Show your support for Ronald McDonald House Charities by donating in the donation buckets or at Kiosk. You can also choose to round up your order total to the nearest dollar

on Kiosk, Drive Thru, Front Counter and at McCafé. What to expect to see in store? Kids’ activities Raffles and competitions Special guests for young and old, including local VIPs Carwash and window wash How can businesses help? Come in store and purchase a corporate hand, which will be displayed in our restaurant with your business’ name on it; you can also come in on the day and help run the day. You can contact our marketing manager, Susan Roulstone at susan.roulstone.mcd@outlook. com if you would like to be one of our special VIPS and rock an apron in store. How does RMHC help families? Hear from some of the people they’ve helped. Briony and Kiara: “It’s because of Ronald McDonald House that our family can get through these hard times. They really do make us feel welcome, safe and put a smile on our faces.” Imogen and Bailey: “Ronald McDonald House is a place where you receive support from staff, volunteers and other families who are going through similar experiences.” So come on down and have some fun with us on Saturday 16th November and help us raise much needed funds to help families stay together in their time of need.

Here in Coffs Harbour, we are lucky to have a strong team with an exceptional customer service focus. We offer our customers an online Click & Collect service, home delivery in local areas and courier deliveries in all other areas. We are open seven days a week, including public holidays (excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday). We invite all of our customers to become VIP members in store, which then entitles the customer to a range of offers. It’s also free to join. I believe Repco is popular, because we have been around for over 95 years, and our brand is iconic. We have a customer centric approach to our business and understand that without our customers, we would have no purpose. We always try to give our customers a complete

solution to any problem or request they have asked us to help with. The Repco brand stands for “Authenticity”, derived from having quality products which have earned the trust of our customers for over 95 years. Repco’s distribution system ensures customers are provided the right parts at the right time. No other competitor can boast of such a wide store footprint. Our regional store network services country towns better than anyone else. With an Australasian footprint of over 400 stores supported by over 4,000 staff, unmatched distribution and online solutions, Repco remains number one in the Australian automotive aftermarket, standing proud as one of Australasia’s most iconic brands.

“Frie n from dly advic e th you e faces know ...”

www.parkbeachhomebase.com.au PACIFIC HIGHWAY NORTH, COFFS HARBOUR | Plus 15 lifestyle brands

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OPEN 7 DAYS

Camera House. Your binocular and scope specialists. When looking for a pair of binoculars; what do the numbers mean? The numbers in the name of any pair of binoculars denote the specifications of that binocular. For example, a set of Olympus EXPSI 8x42 - they have a fixed 8x magnification and a 42 mm aperture size (lens diameter). With 8x magnification, for example, a subject 800 metres distant appears as it would when viewed from 100 metres with the naked eye. As a rule, magnifications of 6x to 10x are recommended for handheld outdoor use. With magnifications of 12x or greater, any shaking by hand movement is more likely to create an unstable image, and image stabilised binoculars are recommended. Can I use binoculars if I wear glasses?

Lots of people wonder what they should do if they wear their glasses while using binoculars. Most binoculars have been designed to allow for comfortable viewing even with your glasses on, and to do so, they provide you with longer eye relief. Is there a set of binoculars that stops them from shaking? Yes, there are binoculars with image stabilisation. This self-steadying feature (for example, found in Canon binoculars) autocorrects for jitters and shakes that easily occur during high magnification observation - especially when you hold your binoculars in your hands, or you are in a moving vehicle. Make sure you pop into Camera House Coffs Harbour to find out more about binoculars and other specialised products.

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UNITE G R OW W I T H C E R TA I N T Y

Offering invaluable advice for all your finances, Unite Advisory have rebranded from a local, familiar name, 360 Financial Advantage, incorporating the acquisition of Kerry Albert & Co. The same friendly team, with a fresh new name. Importantly, they have the same dedicated service, to help you grow with certainty. Chrissy Jones spoke with Victoria Studley about this exciting time.

ictoria, firstly, how did the name change and rebrand come about; how will it benefit your clients? Over the past 18 months, our leadership team has changed and been reinvigorated. The business has re-stated what we stand for, our values as a team and the goals we want to achieve together. This is the perfect time for the rebrand and shows our clients and community that our commitment to them remains strong. We are “united in their financial journey”. We want our clients to feel at ease with our people first service approach. Customers feel confident because of our honesty, selflessness, expert advice and business approach; this offers them peace of mind. Unite Advisory prides itself as an active mem-

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ber of the three communities in which we have office locations. We wanted the name and brand to be synonymous to our giving back to the community; we notched up record donations just shy of $40,000 in 2018. The firm has an impressive client and community service record. This is a healthy sign of the vibrancy and commitment of a team now unified. What services does Unite Advisory offer? Our team is passionate about solving problems to support clients’ financial success, in a timely and reliable manner. We like to work with our client to provide more than just number crunching. We offer accounting, taxation and business advice, ranging from individual tax returns, tax planning advice and structuring to audits,

From left to right: Hilary Acheson, Victoria Studley, Sharon Miles deceased estates, debt management, business valuations, bookkeeping and payroll. Also, we provide lending and leasing options via our brokerage division, along with self-managed super funds. Our expert financial planning team prides itself on offering the clients options in wealth creation, wealth protection and distribution. Having the benefit of highly qualified staff who have been working in their respective field for many years, some with the business for over 20 years locally, Unite Advisory offers all of the above via a timely and reliable service. Who would be your ideal client? People who want to plan for their future and organise their business finances. We are all planning in some way for a better future; we are here to support clients do this. Our holistic

approach and range of services mean that we are able to help and advise clients throughout their life journey. Unite Advisory are found in three separate locations on the Mid North Coast; where are they? Core services are offered in each of our locations: Coffs Harbour, Macksville and Port Macquarie. Three locations with one united front!

Coffs Harbour 133 West High St | Ph: 6651 5999 Macksville 7 Cooper St | Ph: 6568 2300 Port Macquarie Level 1, 147 Gordon St | Ph: 6583 5377

focus_travel

WITH KERRY MOSS FROM QUADRANT TRAVEL

Quadrant Travel

Shamelessly, a lot of the time you spend in Alaska feels like you are on a movie set. Only in Alaska would you ﬁnd moose walking down the main street of their largest city, Anchorage.

nly in Alaska would you find strange place names, such as Chicken and Deadhorse. And only in Alaska would there be no roads in their capital city, Juneau (you can only get there by boat or plane). Alaska is quite like no other destination. It’s hard to believe it’s part of the USA (“lower 48”) as it’s very isolated and remote. There’s a quaintness about Alaska that will make you fall in love with it almost instantly. The best time to visit Alaska is May through to August, as the weather is pleasant and it’s relatively easy to drive around. But be prepared for 19 hours of daylight, as Alaska is so far north the sun doesn’t set for long, hence the nickname “the land of the midnight sun” (the opposite happens in winter, with less than four hours of daylight in Fairbanks in the middle of winter!) Perhaps one of the most impressive ways to travel to Alaska is via the “Inside Passage” - a coastal route for ships and boats along passages which weave through the islands heading up the Canadian Coast and into Alaska. The scenery is stunning, as the Inside Passage is one of the few routes in the world where large cruise ships can safely sail next to steep mountainsides. For a totally different travel experience, you can experience what is referred to as “the road trip of a lifetime” and travel the 2,200 km along the “Alaska Highway”, which starts in Dawson Creek, British Columbia (Canada) and ends in Fairbanks, Alaska. The Alaska Highway follows some of the most stunning scenery in the world, and you’ll have the chance to visit quirky little stopovers along the way, such as Sign Post

Forest or the ghost town, Silver City! Of course, a trip to Alaska would not be complete without seeing three things: wildlife, the Northern Lights and glaciers. One of nature’s most spectacular shows is certainly Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. The best time to see

If you’re after a unique experience in the USA, then why not consider joining local tour company Quadrant Travel and Journeys on their Southern USA Agricultural Highlights! It’s a great opportunity to experience some unique sights in the USA, whilst travelling with like-minded travellers from around Australia. Highlights include a visit to the inspiring and informative Muhammad Ali Center - an $80 million dollar centre which features a mock boxing ring recreated based on his Deer Lake Training Camp, as well as Ali’s boxing memorabilia and history. Learn about Ali’s six core principles of confidence, conviction, dedication, giving, respect, and spirituality. No trip to the Bourbon Capital, Kentucky, is complete without a visit to a Bourbon Distillery. Travellers will experience a visit to a distillery and get the chance to explore the rich tradition and proud history of “America’s Official Native Spirit”. The law requires a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey to have a corn content of at least 51%,

but otherwise each distillery has its own recipe. Not only is Kentucky known as the Bourbon Capital of the World, it’s also known as The Horse Capital of the World, mainly due to the breeding of Thoroughbreds. The famous Bluegrass farms are Thoroughbred operations, breeding and training horses primarily for racing, and the tour with Quadrant Travel will take you to a Thoroughbred horse stud to experience it first-hand. Another highlight is the Ford Kentucky Truck Plant, one of the most impressive manufacturing facilities in the country. Producing all Americanmade vehicles from top to bottom, since opening in 1969 the factory has produced over seven million vehicles! Quadrant Travel and Journeys is located in Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour. They have been taking travellers around the world for more than 30 years and with an experienced and friendly team, they are sure to be able to assist you with all of your travel needs.

them is from August through to March, and one of the best places to see them is in Fairbanks. Interestingly, this is a very popular place for Japanese honeymooners, as they believe that the northern lights bring good luck to their marriage and family. With only one way in and one way out and over six million acres of wild land, Denali National Park is as close to nature as you’re ever going to get. Wildlife is prolific, the scenery is stunning and the experience magnificent. The only accommodation in Denali is camping in one of the six campgrounds, where you can get the true nature experience. When it comes to glaciers in Alaska, you will be spoilt for choice. The biggest and most impressive is Matanuska Glacier, mainly because you can walk right up to it and touch it. You can also hire a guide and go on a glacier hike. For an up close and personal experience, you can take a cruise around Prince William Sound, which has more tidewater glaciers than any place on earth. John Muir, the famous naturalist, once wrote that you should never go to Alaska as a young man, because you’ll never be satisfied with any other place as long as you live. With so many amazing destinations in the world, it’s hard to choose - but there is no doubt Alaska is one of those places that will stay with you forever.

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c.ex stadium P R OJ E CT T E A M F R O M C O F F S H A R B O U R C I T Y C O U N C I L , L I P M A N A N D A P P

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B U I L D I N G A N E P I C S TA D I U M F O R T H E F U T U R E

Complete.

ast time we caught up with the team on this project, you’d just opened Stage 1 back in March … It’s been a busy six months, as we moved on to the second and final stage of the project. We’ve completely transformed the original grandstand building, to a contemporary and welcoming space with picture postcard views of our renowned playing surface. No more corporate tents sweltering on the edge of the ground! For this opening we ditched the traditional ribbon cutting and invited the Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack, Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Denise Knight and Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan to kick a

Earlier this month, C.EX COFFS INTERNATIONAL STADIUM CELEBRATED THE OPENING OF A MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR UPGRADE. We caught up with Nikki Greenwood at the opening ... footy into the crowd at the AFL North Coast grand final. It was a fun afternoon and a great way to open the venue. This has been a two year project - who’s been working with you during that time? From early on we have worked closely with our project team of APP (project managers), Lipman (builders), Hassell and DRA Architects. They’ve played a huge role over the past couple of years, and we are so grateful for their insight and experience. In addition, we also worked with civil contractors AJ Civil Projects and Mid North Coast Constructions, who delivered the new car park. We had over 50 local businesses involved in this project - this was important, to create

direct economic benefit and jobs, but equally it now gives the venue so much local flavour. All of the design elements and Indigenous interpretation connects the stadium to our community and region. So many people around town know someone who’s been involved in some way - it’s lovely to see how proud the team are of what we’ve achieved together. We’ve also had so much input from our sport partners at AFL and cricket - their input into the functional design has been invaluable. What kind of events can we expect to see now that the project has been completed? Firstly, we can now proudly offer this venue to the events who’ve supported the venue

over many years. We can’t wait to welcome our long term national events like Oztag, Touch Football, FFA National Youth Championships and the Coffs Coast Rugby Challenge, as well as the many schools and local sporting groups who come to play each year - I know they are going to love the upgrades! We’re also looking at securing some new content - obviously Sir Elton John coming in February is amazingly exciting for the whole community, So, what’s next? Oh, I’d love to tell you - but I can’t! Keep an eye out for some exciting event announcements soon!

‘BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE’ project 2017–2019 TO CELEBRATE THE ‘BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE’ PROJECT, COUNCIL WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT BUILDING BETTER REGIONS FUND AND THE ORGANISATIONS WHO HAVE WORKED ALONGSIDE US. PROJECT FUNDED BY

PROJECT TEAM

WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE GENEROUS CONTRIBUTIONS OF

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... continued with Nikki Greenwood

WATER YULUDARLA

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hat’s your favourite feature in the upgraded venue? It’s the carpet! The project team heard me rave about the carpet from the minute we were lucky enough to hear about Brentyn’s work from Chris Spencer and his team at Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance ... I love that it has a local connection to our community - I love that the design tells a real story, I love the colours, I love the dots, and I most of all love the feature piece downstairs which links it all. Every single time I walk into a carpeted room, it makes me smile. So, tell us more about the carpet ... We are the first venue to feature the “Water Yuludarla” carpet collection. Based on the artwork of Gumbaynggirr artist Brentyn Lugnan, “Water Yuludarla” is the result of MillikenOntera’s collaboration with Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance and the National Aboriginal Design Agency. We were just so lucky to find out about this upcoming release at the perfect time … it was all top secret and we couldn’t wait to show it off, but it had to be kept under wraps until the

national release. IN BRENTYN’S WORDS: “Water Yuludarla” is about the generational connection between the Gumbaynggirr Peoples and the waters and lands of this area. A river winds its way across bordered with my ancestors from the centre, radiates out, my family symbol. This speaks of taking spirit from home out into the wider world. I get the feeling you have more favourites ... Can I say all of it? Actually, one of my favourite spaces is the corporate area - it’s so welcoming, and it’s the space that really surprises people who come in for the first time. To me, this is the final piece in the overall venue that really says welcome to our amazing stadium, and come and enjoy events Coffs Harbour style. We’re not trying to be the SCG - we are trying to be Coffs Coast, and we wanted the space to bring the outside in. It’s filled with natural light and has an outlook to the stadium and also the Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park fields behind … I love it! Thanks Nikki.

Our versatile

STADIUM “The versatile sports stadium” ... With the project now complete, Dan Heather shares some of the smarts and features you can’t see from the outside!

o Dan, with everything now finished, what makes our stadium so great? It’s no secret our greenkeeping team nurture and manage a playing surface that is the envy of stadiums across the country, but when you combine the superior playing surface with broadcast lighting and now the new state of the art facilities to cater for players, coaches, officials, media and of course spectators, Coffs Harbour has one of the best regional stadiums in Australia.

You mention media, players, officials etc.; is the stadium reserved for just the big sports? No; in fact, this presented the single biggest challenge in designing the grandstand upgrades. Many stadiums are built for a single sport; however, we have both the benefit and challenge of being a multi-sport venue, which means the design of everything needed to work for large oval sports such as cricket and AFL, rectangular sports such as the various football codes, but more importantly, we

had to make the venue versatile enough to deliver our big competition events like Oztag and touch football, as well as our very busy calendar of community events such as school and athletic carnivals! That’s a lot to pack into a venue; did it work? We are very proud to say yes! We have a truly versatile venue that works for many different event styles. We saw at the opening the new corporate spaces. Apart from looking amazing, will

these be available for hire? Yes, of course. We want as many people and organisations to enjoy the venue as possible. We actually have a lot of different spaces that can be used for meetings, training, seminars, workshops, cocktail functions … as well as major events. We are happy to show people through, and we already have a number of new functions booked in for the coming months! Well, we are pretty excited … maybe the FOCUS Christmas party will be there! As long as I get an invite – no worries!

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BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

The vision to create an inclusive space FOR EVERYONE

Interview with Dan continued ...

from young children, through to seniors, some

subtle things that you may not even realise

may use mobility aids or have prams, some may

have been done for a purpose. For example,

have hearing or visual impairments, or we may

each building is coloured and named differently,

have an event that will expect more women

so a young child who may not be able to read

than men, so clever planning and flexibility in

can recognise they are in the blue grandstand,

across the entire venue, who might visit, who

venue design allows us to cater for this well.

whereas other people will refer to it as the

might hire it, what will it be hired for, and from

So, how do you actually achieve this?

Northern Grandstand.

an, we hear the word inclusive used a lot. What does this mean in the context of a venue? Well, it’s about thinking holistically

our perspective, how do we deliver a building that will simply work for everyone. People who regularly visit the stadium range

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Good question. There are obvious examples,

The pathways in the forecourt have different

like having lift access to the concourse level

colour concrete, which helps with way-finding,

of the grandstands, and then there are some

but also assists visually impaired people

navigate. We have designed all our ramps to feel like pathways, so wheel chair users do not feel they need to use a special ramp; everyone walks up the same paths. The forecourt space also features flexible bench seating, some with backs, some without, and all are accessible by wheelchair users or people using a mobility aid. We have built hearing loops into spaces and provide hearing assistance devices for within the seat bowl. All service areas have various height counters, to allow for inclusive service for children or wheelchair users. We have built flexibility into seating locations for people in a wheelchair, who have multiple options to choose where they’d like to sit with their carers and families. How do you know you are doing it right? Firstly, we wrote accessibility and inclusiveness into our project charter right at the beginning. So, it was always front of mind in decision making throughout the project. Secondly, we asked for help and advice along the way. Council’s Disability Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee were kept up to date throughout the project, and many of their recommendations were implemented. We also had the manager of Event Access and Inclusion from Department of Premier and Cabinet sit on our Stakeholder Reference Group. Our project contributor, Key Employment, also provided input along the way and as a result, we have engaged a new staff member with their assistance.

BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

Food fabulous

FOOD!

e sampled some pretty amazing food at the opening … Who catered for you? I am pleased to say it is all in-house! Over the last few King Tide Brewing months of the project, WE EMPLOY LOCAL created a special Debra, our Food and STAFF AND SOURCE session ale called the Beverage Team Leader, LOCAL PRODUCTS. WE Grandstander … we was busy sourcing HAVE EVEN LINKED UP loved the labelling, products, finding WITH LOCAL CRAFT and it is a great beer! chefs and wait staff BREWERS AND WINERIES, Tell me about the and creating a mouthTO PROVIDE SOMETHING coffee! watering menu! SPECIAL AT EVENTS. Ha ha! Yes, coffee is Well, I am impressed! an essential ingredient Do your source for a well rounded everything locally? food and beverage Yes; in fact, it’s offering! At the stadium, local owners Jono something we are quite proud of. We and Catharine of ZEST Café in Sawtell have employ local staff and source local products. opened the HUB CAFÉ, serving Botero coffee We have even linked up with local craft - which is grown and roasted in the Maclean, brewers and wineries, to provide something just up the road. So, we have great coffee special at events. For the opening, guests available on event days! enjoyed wine from Raleigh Winery, and

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BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

HOW DO YOU MAKE A STADIUM LOOK AMAZING … YOU ASK TWO BIRDS! We sat down with Kylie Mackay and Kristie Peel from Two Birds Design to ﬁnd out more about the design features of the stadium.

ell us what it meant for Two Birds Design to be involved in such an important project for the Coffs Coast. Having the opportunity to showcase our interior design services on such a project has been amazing! It has been very rewarding to work with Coffs Harbour City Council and to show what we are capable of producing within our local community (and even that services and skills like ours are available here). Many hours go into making sure all the details

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work together. It is like a giant puzzle - each section needs to fit perfectly with the next; otherwise, it never looks quite right. We’ve seen the colours on the buildings as we drive past; what was the brief you worked to? Our design brief was to represent elements of where we live, the hinterland, coast and urban environments. The colour combinations represented on each façade showcase these areas; each colour has been taken out of our environment.

The Southern Grandstand represents the hinterland, with a natural green palette (think rainforests, tree ferns, frogs, pastures and rolling hills). The Northern Grandstand represents the coastal environment, with a blue, coastal palette (think ocean, river systems, beaches, open spaces); whilst the refurbished Central Grandstand represents our city - the Coffs Harbour city centre, with a warm, urban palette. Are you still friends with the painter after selecting all those different colours?

Yes! Snell and Egan Painting did a fantastic job delivering our vision for the stadium. Although it probably felt like more to them, there were only around 25 colours used throughout the whole project. Most colours were repeated in each area, just used in different combinations to create different effects. It’s not just the paint either; there are around 10 different coloured feature tiles used to carry the colour theme through the public toilets and changerooms.

BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

Connected to Gumbaynggirr

As part of the project, COFFS HARBOUR CITY COUNCIL ENGAGED GUMBAYNGGIRR ARTISTS Uncle Tony Hart and Brentyn Lugnan to create artworks that depicted the hinterland and coastal environments of Gumbaynggirr country.

hile both artworks are truly amazing and unique, they were both used to inspire design elements that feature throughout the venue. The Gumbaynggirr designs feature in window frosting, water fountains, furniture, and concrete stencils. Uncle Tony’s art (shown here) is titled Way of Life: Way of Life - From the Mountains to the Sea shows many cultural landmarks, including the hills and ranges which are important to our people, because they have strong spiritual meaning and connection for initiations or corrobboree, the footprints of our ancestors, where they used to walk and leave a path, all the way from the ocean through to up in the ranges and the mountains. This

art depicts the animals, plants and environment that are a vital source of Gumbaynggirr food and culture. Brentyn’s artwork is titled To The Stars: To The Stars tells of the ancestors’ journeys across Coffs/ Gumbaynggirr Country to the sea. The starfish are representative of the food and life available there. The “U”s are the ancestors and portrayed underneath is the Coffs area. Traditionally, the ocean provided great resources, and these travels were common. Upon completion, I was delighted to discover I had depicted a stadiu, with the people travelling to see the stars. “It is quite fun to see people comment on how great things look around the stadium, and little do they know there is a significant meaning behind it all,” says Dan Heather.

C.ex Group is proud to be the naming rights sponsor of C.ex Coffs International Stadium and will continue to sponsor major events in the future for the benefit of the Coffs Coast Region.

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BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

J L E O N S I T E I N S TA L L I N G T H E NEW LED SCREEN

What's theBUZZ? Sharon McDougall tells us about the tech ...

eâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen lots of cranes grant funding, so in addition to the massive at the stadium recently; new screen, we also have 100 lineal metres why is that? of LED panels that can be used as perimeWell, there has been a ter signage around the edge of the field for fair bit going on but things like sponsor excitingly, our brand messaging and fan new LED screen was engagement. installed a few weeks There are now ago. Laser Electrical almost 70 screens THERE ARE NOW and their sub conthroughout the ALMOST 70 SCREENS tractor JLE have been stadium, one in just THROUGHOUT THE working for months to about every room STADIUM, ONE IN JUST prepare the founand in public areas ABOUT EVERY ROOM dations and support like the concourses AND IN PUBLIC AREAS structure for the monand food and drink LIKE THE CONCOURSES ster 62 square metre outlets, so for an AND FOOD AND DRINK screen. To offer a direct event that includes OUTLETS, SO FOR AN size comparison, our live coverage, you EVENT THAT INCLUDES existing scoreboard LED never have to miss LIVE COVERAGE, YOU screen (that we have a second! This also NEVER HAVE TO MISS A now moved to the means that we SECOND! south east corner of are able to offer the field) is 21.6 square digital sponsorship metres. Fun fact: the packages for the new screen is made up venue. of over 720,000 individual LEDs! We have also installed LED strip lighting Are there any other features that we to a few key locations, including the might not notice on first glance? changerooms and along the back of the Yeah, there sure are. Delivering fan grandstands, where we can now personfacing technology was a commitment we alise feature lighting to suit event or team made as part of our Building Better Regions colours - which is pretty cool!

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BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

The

hat is the HUB all about? The HUB is a home for local, like-minded sporting organisations and event organisers to connect and collaborate in a vibrant, inclusive, innovative space, within a precinct with a renowned reputation as a premier destination for sports tourism and events excellence. Who is in there? We have three foundation tenants, being AFL North Coast, Cricket NSW and North Coast Football. We also have the stadium greenkeeping team and some of the events

HUB

team located in the HUB. It’s a great space that allows each tenant to have their own office, use of a shared meeting room and kitchen and staff areas, but there is also an open plan co-working space that allows other sports, events or organisations to work for a day, a week or even full-time. Is there room for anyone else? Yes! We could definitely accommodate a couple of people in the open plan area. If a sport is interested in having a permanent work space at the HUB, they can simply give us a call!

Infracraft – building communities

For years Coffs Harbour has been the epicentre of sport on the NSW North Coast. Sport is the backbone of Aussie culture, it builds and forms communities, bringing people together from all walks of life. It is for this reason that Infracraft, one of Coffs Harbour’s own is excited to announce their involvement in the building of the C.ex Coffs International Stadium.

Our staff – kicking goals

Utilising the latest manufacturing technologies to produce high quality items, our team of over 80 staff have won construction and trade, business innovation and training awards. It is no wonder that Infracraft were recently named as an Employer of Choice.

Infracraft is always looking for people with winning attitudes to join our growing team. We can teach the skills but we can’t teach attitude.

infracraft.com.au

“Innovative Joinery” Coffs Coast focus 95

Thank

BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

YOU!

C O U N C I L’ S M A Y O R A N D G M W I T H P R O J E C T C O N T R I B U T O R S C.EX GROUP, INFRACRAFT AND KEY EMPLOYMENT

Council gratefully acknowledge the generous contributions made to the project by the following organisations:

C.EX GROUP

CRICKET AUSTRALIA

AFL

Why did you decide to contribute to the stadium project? In the last five years, the C.ex Group has supported over 400 community groups and donated in excess of $1.7 million dollars to local community and sporting organisations. The C.ex Group believes that C.ex Coffs International Stadium is a major economic contributor to the Coffs Coast, where the many local, national and international sporting groups compete.

What has excited you the most about the project? The redevelopment of C.ex Coffs International Stadium has provided significant infrastructure upgrades that strengthen Coffs Harbour’s position to continue to attract elite level international and domestic cricket matches. Cricket Australia and Cricket NSW are proud to partner with Council in the development and delivery of the “Building an EPIC Stadium for the Future” project - an important facility underpinning the longterm growth of cricket in the region.

You’ve seen the finished product; what do you think? It’s fantastic! As sport becomes more and more professional in nature, the quality and size of the changerooms, spectator zones and media and sponsors’ environments will entice AFL clubs to want to return to Coffs Harbour. AFL NSW/ACT is excited to have partnered with and significantly contributed to Coffs Harbour City Council to deliver the wonderful upgrades to C.ex Coffs International Stadium. These upgrades provide the AFL with the opportunity to continue the Sydney Swans pre-season content and potentially introduce AFLW content to Coffs Harbour.

C.ex Coffs International Stadium

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BUILDING AN EPIC STADIUM FOR THE FUTURE - PROJECT COMPLETE!

Thank

YOU!

K E Y E M P LOY M E N T

I N F R A C R A F T D E TA I L E D J O I N E R Y

Why was it important to Key Employment to support the project? By supporting the project, we are contributing to increased opportunities for fitness and fun, as well increasing the accessibility of the venue. We support the increased employment opportunities and tourism the stadium offers, as well as the enhanced reputation for the city. We are thrilled that one of our clients is now employed at the stadium as a result of this project!

Why is the stadium special to the team at Infracraft? Infracraft Detailed Joinery has deep roots in the Coffs Coast region. Employing over 80 staff, many of whom are keen amateur sports people, we are committed to the success of our community. An important part of regional communities is sport. Sport brings together people from all walks of life, makes sure that active lifestyles are promoted and creates bonds that last a lifetime. When we saw an opportunity to be involved in the stadium project, we took it with both hands. This new facility will be an asset to our region for decades to come. It will give our community a place be proud of and will attract more sporting events, which in turn will continue to inject money into our economy.

AJ CIVIL PROJECTS

After 21 years in business, are committed to providing exceptional delivery, service and outcomes for all of our clients

Proud supporter of Lipman and C.ex Coffs International Stadium

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w .lip

m an

.c om .a

PROUD LOCAL BUILDERS OF C.EX COFFS INTERNATIONAL STADIUM

BUILDING A BETTER FUTURE FOR OUR COMMUNITY

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Celebrating 20 years as a real estate agent and 10 years as Coffs Harbour ’s first solo female real estate principal, Joanne Vines chats to Sam Dawson in an open and candid interview about what has driven her to be so successful in a very competitive industry.

ow did One Agency begin? I was at the stage in my career where I felt it was time to realise my dream, which was to own my own real estate business. I was offered an opportunity to buy into the business where I was working, which became the catalyst for me to

make the leap into my own business. I knew I wanted to set a new benchmark for real estate and to achieve my vision, I felt the most positive and logical step was to open my own office! I didn’t want to pick up where someone else had left off; I wanted to pave a new way with a fresh start.

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Instilling my own morals and values was At the end of the day, it’s easy to follow fundamental to the office culture that I wanted the guidelines and regulations set out by the to create. The word “culture” is thrown around Office of Fair Trading; which is common sense loosely, but I knew exactly the type of real estate and basically translates to treating people brand that I wanted to develop. with respect and the way you would like to be I was confident that with 10 years’ treated. experience, the training and knowledge I had Having my first child, Ngahine, at seventeen gained over time placed years old has been a me in a great position, as massive, positive, influence I made the leap into my on my life. Certainly, at new venture. I remember the time, it was daunting; thinking to myself that if I was forced to grow up I DIDN’T WANT TO I didn’t know something, quickly, and I needed PICK UP WHERE I would make it my duty to become immediately SOMEONE ELSE HAD to find out and continue responsible. This LEFT OFF; I WANTED to learn and advance. experience has profoundly TO PAVE A NEW WAY I am incredibly influenced who I am and WITH A FRESH START. fortunate that my what I set out to achieve husband, Pryde Vines, in life. has always been an Interestingly, I am a amazing support. He deep thinker and full of really believed in me and my decision. I had ideas, so when I do things, people can tend to girlfriends who said after the fact, although they be surprised! were supportive at the time, “I feared for you”. As soon as I had started One Agency Coffs But, I love to challenge myself, and I knew it was Harbour, I was approached by three other real time to take my next step. estate principals who asked to join me. But now In the real estate industry, we are legislatively that I had made this bold move alone, having required to adhere to strict rules and regulations, left a highly successful position, I wasn’t going which is paramount to the way we practice and to be swayed from accomplishing my goal. I leads to exceeding our clients’ expectations. It had a wonderful personal assistant, Hattie, at is disappointing when a small number of real the time, who joined me, and that’s how One estate agents do not act with integrity and ruin Agency Coffs Harbour was born! it for the conscientious and honest agents.

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CELEBRATING 20 YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

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garage, until one day my husband said, “It’s time to move out of the house and spread your wings elsewhere!” We moved to an upstairs office at The Promenade, located at the Jetty area of Coffs Harbour. As we evolved, we needed more room to grow. Fate intervened, an opportunity presented itself, and we migrated downstairs to a space twice the size. We love being positioned IF THERE’S ONE THING in the main entry of The Promenade and being by I UNDERSTAND ABOUT the water. It’s a lovely space to conduct business REAL ESTATE, IT’S THAT and to bring people. NOTHING COMES EASY; IT What drives you Joanne? And are you glad REALLY IS A CRAFT AND you took that risk all those years ago? REQUIRES DEDICATION Absolutely! There has definitely been an AND COMMITMENT. IN evolution of Joanne Vines from 20 years ago to THIS INDUSTRY, YOU now. My lifestyle has changed completely from the HAVE TO CONSTANTLY early days, as I am no longer raising children and I PRACTICE AND MASTER like to party a little less now that I’m more mature. YOUR PROFESSION BY Today I focus on my work/life balance. APPLYING YOURSELF AND I’m proud to say that my business has a BEING PERSISTENT AND woman’s touch, considering the real estate CONSISTENT. industry as a whole is a predominantly male orientated industry. I’m passionate about life, I naturally connect with people and believe I’m genetically dispositioned to be driven. I’m lucky to have a lot of energy, which I harness by getting up at 4:30am five mornings a week to exercise. However, my main love is yoga, which keeps me One Agency Coffs Harbour was born 10 years ago and centred and balanced. I take pride in looking after myself, and I believe that it all began in a cupboard! Please tell us that in turn reflects in the way I run my business. I encourage more! my staff to do likewise, which is reflected in our overall office Yes! Our office was initially a converted cupboard in my culture. home, which we soon outgrew, so it expanded into the fourth As a young teenager, I planned to go to university and join bedroom and then encroached into the third bedroom and the the airlines, but fate had other plans and I became a mum and

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REPUTATION IS EVERYTHING, AND I BELIEVE THAT EVERY ACTION HAS A REACTION. WE REFER TO OURSELVES AS ‘THE ONE TEAM’. WE ARE A COHESIVE GROUP OF TALENTED INDIVIDUALS WORKING TOWARDS A COMMON GOAL. WE RELY ON EACH OTHER’S PERFORMANCE, STRENGTH, ENCOURAGEMENT, EXPERTISE AND HUMOUR TO ENSURE THAT WE DELIVER AN EXCEPTIONAL REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE!

wife instead. As a young mum, I turned my attention to a career where I could work, study and learn at the same time. When I first moved to Coffs Harbour, I worked as a dance teacher and I considered a career in interior design. My neighbour, Chris Peers, worked in real estate and encouraged me to consider real estate as a career, and I’m very grateful to him! Before I jumped in, I researched all the agencies in Coffs Harbour, before I

made a decision as to where I would like to work. I knew I would thrive where I worked predominantly with people. I am a highly motivated, hardworking person and when I started in real estate, I was in my element, and I knew I had found my niche! What sets you apart from other real estate agents? If there’s one thing I understand about real estate, it’s that nothing comes easy;

it really is a craft and requires dedication and commitment. In this industry, you have to constantly practice and master your profession by applying yourself and being persistent and consistent. It’s not a career where you learn and then become complacent - at the end of the day, you’re only as good as your last client and the impression you’ve left! Real estate is ever-changing, and

technology has meant radical changes since I started in 1999, from how we initially connect with people to how we deal with people on a daily basis. The power of the internet has revolutionised the real estate industry, by assisting with selling and leasing homes but realistically, real estate is all about relationships and connecting the right people to the right properties.

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The art of real estate is understanding what people need; often what people think they want is not necessarily what they need. It’s giving people options that they may not have considered before. It’s so lovely seeing clients happy and completely satisfied, and it’s great to think we’ve had an impact on the decision they’ve made; there’s nothing more rewarding! But it’s not just about homes; it’s about ensuring the right fit! Consider this: a child’s Tupperware Shape-O toy! The shapes cannot be threaded through, unless they’re the right shape, and that’s what real estate is all about: matching the people to their right “fit”. You

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have a responsibility to make sure that you get that right. This also flows through to rental properties; One Agency Coffs Harbour is proud of making sure that tenants are matched to the right environment, where they are safe and comfortable. Fundamentally, we have an obligation to clearly ascertain the client’s needs. We try to maintain a high standard, and we believe that if we wouldn’t be happy to live in a property, why would we expect anyone else to live there? For example, you would not suggest a home with stairs for older people with bad hips or knees. We have an ethical obligation to get this right for each person. It’s asking the right questions, seeing what lifestyle they lead and introducing people to options they may never have even considered before. It’s about selling the Coffs Coast, and understanding the demographic of the areas is important too. Families who love the beach may fit perfectly in a coastal suburb, for example, Sandy Beach, Emerald Beach or Sawtell, or Coffs Harbour, Boambee or Bonville, depending on the schools and activities they enjoy and the surrounding communities. Connecting our clients to the right properties brings about a sense of belonging. I have never planned to be the biggest real estate business in Coffs Harbour; however, my goal has always been to be the best - by always exceeding expectations and delivering more than we promise. I believe that competition is essential to keep you thinking and learning. We choose to lead rather than follow, but remain respectful to our competitors. Who makes up your team, and what do they do?

J O A N N E

IT’S EXCITING TO START FIRST HOME BUYERS ON THEIR PROPERTY JOURNEY AND THEN UPSELL THEM INTO A BIGGER PROPERTY AS THEIR FAMILY GROWS. WE APPRECIATE THAT MUCH OF OUR BUSINESS IS REPEAT/REFERRAL BUSINESS, AND WE LOVE THAT SO MANY OF OUR CLIENTS REFER TO US AS FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

Sharon Gill-Wood has been with ONE for over six years. She is an integral part of our business and has the very important title of “Office Guru”, which says it all. Sharon oversees sales and property management and is definitely our work “Mum”, who remembers everyone’s birthdays and cooks all the good cakes! Sharon is gold; she is a very loyal, hardworking and an experienced employee. The property management team is made up

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of Natalie Scott, “Rental Hotshot” and Josh Melbourne, “Rental Ranger”; they take care of all our landlords and tenants. Natalie has 13 years’ experience and loves property management; she combines her love for property management with being a mum of two. Josh is a people person who connects easily with everyone; he loves to be busy and connecting the right people to the right properties. Combined, they are hard-working, well-centred, down to earth people who com-

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plement each other and do a ONE-derful job managing our rental portfolio. Josh and Natalie’s ethos is: “We’ll care for your property as if it was our own”; they take property management very seriously and understand the importance and the huge responsibility bestowed upon them. We appreciate the value of our landlords and focus on attracting landlords who are serious about investing. We believe the right properties attract the right tenants. Most of us have been a tenant at some stage in our lives, and we love the positive feedback we get from our tenants. Zak Vines, my son, has been with One Agency Coffs Harbour for six years. Zak is a great support to me and is an all-rounder. He

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can turn his hand to almost anything, from reception to open homes! He is an integral part of the business and specialises in sales and property management support. Julie Sechi, “Property Diva”, has been with us for four years. Julie works alongside me in the sales division and is a dedicated sales representative who deals with clients with compassion and empathy. She treats everyone with respect and is also an expert in the cake department! I am currently expanding the ONE team and looking for great people to join our sales team. If you believe you are a dynamic, high-achiever who loves people, has loads of energy and is hardworking, I’d love to talk to you!

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ONE BIG THANK YOU, COFFS COAST, FOR SUPPORTING ME FOR THE PAST 20 YEARS!

Do you believe that it is important to be part of the Coffs community? Absolutely! I have offered a dance scholarship at Woolgoolga Dance Studio for the past 12 years, which enables an up and coming young dancer to further their talent. I am all about empowering young women to be the best version of themselves. I am involved in the “Stars of Coffs Coast”, which is an initiative of the Cancer Council. I was a Star in the first “Dancing with the Stars” event in 2011 and have volunteered on the committee since. The Coffs Coast community is a great support to me and my business, and it’s very

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important to give back. One Agency Coffs Harbour is involved with International Women’s Day and sponsor the event, which recognises the work of exceptional women on the Coffs Coast. We have also been involved in the Mary Help of Christians Spring Fair and Coffs Harbour Ballroom Dance Titles and The Coffs Harbour Showgirls Competition. One Agency Coffs Harbour inaugurated and sponsors the ONE Shining Brightly Award in five Coffs Coast schools. This award highlights a student who shines the brightest each month; they are awarded with a Park Beach Plaza Gift Voucher.

Final words? I feel truly blessed, and I’m grateful that I work in an industry where I have the opportunity to assist people to move on to the next stage of their lives. Each day is different, and I love the opportunity to meet such a diverse range of amazing people. It’s exciting to start first home buyers on their property journey and then upsell them into a bigger property as their family grows. We appreciate that much of our business is repeat/referral business, and we love that so many of our clients refer to us as family and friends.

The Promenade, 321 Harbour Drive (02) 6651 8111 coffs@oneagency.com.au @oneagencycoffsharbour one_agency_coffs_harbour

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Blue Ribbon Homes NRMA Mid-North Coast Come in and meet the team of insurance experts at NRMA Mid North Coast. You will be able to speak to an insurance professional face to face about your personal insurance needs. Conveniently located at Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour, Nambucca, Macksville and Kempsey, you can be assured they understand local issues that are important to you. The Mid North Coast boasts a great lifestyle, attracting many people to the region. With the warmer months now here, we know how important it is to stay safe in your home. NRMA Home insurance can protect against the unexpected, such as damage to your home from fire, storm, impact and theft or attempted theft. Whether you own your home or rent, there is a policy that we can tailor to your circumstances and protect what

is important to you. Conservation is something we know is important to our customers, and we are fortunate to have koala populations scattered along the Mid North Coast seaboard. Our favourite marsupial is under threat. Cuteness alone is not enough to save them. Deforestation, bushfires and climate change are all contributing to the loss of koala habitat. To ensure the future of koalas, for the rest of this year, NRMA pledged to plant a tree for every new home insurance policy, proudly partnering with the amazing people at Conservation Volunteers Australia. Every home is worth protecting. Protect your home or contents by visiting our teams at NRMA Mid North Coast, and you’ll be helping to protect our koala populations at the same time.

Get quality Home Insurance at a great price Our Home Insurance includes features like: • New for old replacement of your belongings • Up to a year’s temporary accommodation for you, your family and even your pets • Cover for theft and damage, even if you forget to lock the door Drop into your local branch and chat to the team today. NRMA Nambucca Heads at

6568 5477

Shop 8, 38-40, Bowra Street NRMA Macksville at

6568 3515

Shop 2, 6 Cooper Street NRMA Coﬀs Harbour at

6650 0122

30 Gordon Street NRMA Woolgoolga at

6654 8088

Shop 13, Woolgoolga Plaza, 42 - 44 Beach Street

Things you should know: Cover is subject to standard underwriting guidelines and policy terms. To see if our insurance is right for you, always read the Product Disclosure Statement from the product issuer Insurance Australia Limited trading as NRMA Insurance.

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Blue Ribbon Homes is a locally owned company that has been building homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 30 years. We are proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our clients, built with hard work and dedication. Design Flexibility At Blue Ribbon Homes we pride ourselves on offering our clients unique custom designed homes that will cost you no more than building from our extensive range of standard floor plans. You may already have some plans drawn up, or maybe even just a sketch; either way, we are more than happy to quote on your plans and help develop your ideas. Free Site Inspection We can arrange a free pre-purchase site inspection of your land, providing you with the right advice to help with your land purchasing and building options. After discussing the requirements of your new home, we will develop your unique concept

plan. You’ll then be provided with a full and comprehensive itemised quote, you’ll see exactly what we have included in the price, which means there’ll be absolutely no hidden extras. Challenging Site? No worries! Challenging sites are our speciality. We can achieve the desired outcome for our clients at an affordable price. If it fits your land, lifestyle and budget, rest assured, we can build it for you. Stress Free Building Some people consider building a new home to be stressful, but at Blue Ribbon Homes we make it easy and enjoyable, as it should be! Our experience and skills will give you the confidence to know you’re in great hands, leaving you free to enjoy the exciting experience of building your new home. At Blue Ribbon Homes we can make your dream home a reality! Call us today for a chat on (02) 6651 8144.

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Persian RUG CENTRE

i Abdul. How long has your business been running in 50 x 80 cm up to 300 x 400cm, and we also have Coffs Harbour? them in rounds and runners up to 2,500 cm in The Persian Rug Centre length. business has been running for What would be the most popular style of more than two years in Coffs rugs that you sell? Harbour. We are located on In the handmade rug the Pacific Highway, Corner range, the most popular of Park Avenue. rugs are Chobi rugs. Chobi What styles of rugs do rugs are traditionally proyou carry? WE ACCEPT SPECIAL duced in Afghanistan. The We sell two kinds of rugs ORDERS TO MAKE word "Chobi" is from the in our Coffs Harbour shop. Farsi word "Chob", which 1 - Handmade rugs and HANDMADE RUGS means wood, referring to 2 - Machine made rugs. IN ANY DESIGN, SIZE the source of its natural dyes. 1- The handmade rugs AND MATERIAL FOR Our Chobis tend to have are Persian rugs from Iran large geometric floral patand Afghanistan, and these OUR CUSTOMERS. terns. They are all hand-knotare wool and wool, wool ted with hand-spun wool, and cotton, wool and silk, spun primarily by a drop silk and silk. These start spindle. from small sizes and extend In machine-made rugs, the most popular rugs up to very large sizes. We have a full range of are 12 Shana; these kinds of rugs come from Iran, shapes, including round rugs, square rugs and and they’re are very durable and shiny. runner rugs in different qualities. Rugs are important in styling a home. How 2- Machine-made rugs are from Turkey and Iran, and these come in different sizes, like do you help customers with choosing the

SILK RUGS, WOOL RUGS, RUNNERS, TRADITIONAL DESIGNS, EXOTIC DESIGNS … WHATEVER STYLE YOU ARE LOOKING FOR, YOU CAN FIND AN ABUNDANT RANGE AT THE PERSIAN RUG CENTRE IN COFFS HARBOUR. ABDUL AHMADZY TELLS US MORE.

right floor covering? We help customers to choose the right rug; we can take some rugs to our customers’ homes, and they can choose from a range - and it is a free service. They choose three or four rugs to try if they are happy, then they will buy it. Also, our customers can exchange the rugs several times until they find the right one. Do you do special orders? We accept special orders to make handmade rugs in any design, size and material for our customers. How often do you get new rugs in, and what is coming in the next load? We have new rugs coming in all the time, and at the moment we have more than 2,000 designs to choose from in our shop. Do you have a website or Facebook page where we can look at rugs? This is our website: persianrugscentre.com.au and this is our Facebook page: persianrugscentre Anything else? Also, we can wash and repair handmade rugs for our customers. And we home deliver for free! Thanks Abdul. Coffs Coast focus 109

M A R C U S P H I L L I P S F R O M D E S I G N E R L I V I N G K I T C H E N S A N D C A R O LY N L E N E G H A N

kitchen of the

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AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

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Marcus Phillips from Designer Living Kitchens is one of the most highly rated kitchen designers on the North Coast. FOCUS had a chat with the owners of his most recent project, and this is what the happy customer had to say ...

here did you draw to achieve in styling our dream kitchen. We your inspiration for are thrilled with how the kitchen functions the design? and the styling. I had chosen What are some of the features? Spotted Gum flooring, The features in this kitchen are beautiful a charcoal tile splashback and matt black smartstone benchtops, matt black tapware tapware. Marcus and black sink. The helped with the design cabinetry complements and colours for the the Spotted Gum flooring. smartstone benchtop The cabinetry is a mix and cabinetry. I wanted of white, timber and THE FEATURES a family friendly space charcoal in the butler’s IN THIS KITCHEN that enabled me to pantry. The large island ARE BEAUTIFUL interact with family bench has one waterfall SMARTSTONE whilst in the kitchen. edge, and the other side BENCHTOPS, MATT Tell us about the enables people to sit and BLACK TAPWARE process, and are you interact. AND BLACK SINK. happy with the end Overall, what did you result? think of the service From our first visit Marcus provided? with Marcus, we felt Marcus provides a comfortable with him and we knew we personal and professional service. I enjoyed were in safe hands. Marcus was friendly, our experience with Marcus. I would highly professional and had expertise in interior recommend him to anyone wanting a value design. He understood what we were trying for money and amazing kitchen.

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enovating “right” from the start, by increasing comfort and reducing running costs of your home, will make it more attractive to purchasers when it comes time to sell. Buyers are becoming more concerned about the ongoing running costs of a home, due to increased cost of gas and power. New trends have emerged where buyers are requesting electricity and water bills and asking more questions about efficiency features. As property prices increase, it is not just about can you afford a home any more; it is also can you afford to live in it? As property owners invest in liveability, real estate features such as solar, insulation, water efficiency features and other cost saving features are what buyers are finding more attractive in homes. And, it is important that real estate agents keep current and comprehensive knowledge to meet the expectations of buyers’ changing needs and understand the products, to be able to explain these features and their value when offering a property for sale, to maximise the seller’s price. Traditionally when thinking about reducing running costs of a home, people instantly think of solar panels, hotwater systems and water flow reducing devices; however, there is so much more to think about. A good building design will consider seven main elements in the design process to create homes that require minimal mechanical heating or cooling. For most of Australia, the orientation of a building to face north to access the free heat from the sun is the starting point. The other six elements are - house “zoning”, thermal mass, ventilation, insulation, shading and glazing. When these features are integrated, they create a beautiful whole house solution. Orientation is of greatest importance for heating the home. Orientation is simply

locating living areas like the lounge room on the north side of the house, with windows having clear access to sunlight, especially in mid-winter. Effective orientation provides a minimum of about five hours of free sun heating a day. Ventilation can improve comfort levels and the air quality in your home. The climate in Coffs Harbour is warm, wet and humid, making it an attractive zone for mould growth. Cross ventilation is not only important in a passive solar design to help cool a house, by allowing air to move and escape - it is also important to get the air moving and disrupt mould growth. Zoning is used to help regulate temperature in a home. Doors close off rooms and stop both cooling and warming air escaping from living areas into empty corridors. Insulation is like a barrier, helping to regulate heat flow into and out of your home. By reducing heat flow, you can maintain a comfortable temperature inside, regardless of the temperature outside. Thermal mass is a measure of a material’s ability to absorb and release heat. Good passive design uses thermal mass to absorb excess heat from within a house during summer days and dump it to cool night skies. Bricks and concrete are the most commonly available high mass materials. Windows have a large influence on comfort, as it is both the biggest source of heat loss and heat gain. A great deal of heat can pass through glass, which can compromise an otherwise well-insulated house. To improve the insulating properties of the window, consider installing double glazing. External shading devices can block up to 90% of the unwanted direct sunlight hitting your windows during summer. Forms of shading devices include eaves, pergolas, seasonal shade sails and awnings.

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Call 13 2 to book 8 36 a tour

Aged Care has never come with so much Freedom When many people think of aged care they think of a nursing home and living on someone else’s timetable. But that’s not what you’ll expect after visiting Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour, a welcoming community that gives you the flexibility to do what you want. It’s a genuine alternative to a nursing home.

SEE THE DIFFERENCE

Freedom Aged Care^

Nursing Home

24-hr nurse services – immediate response nurse-call technology

✓

Low, High, Palliative and Dementia Care

✓

Government funding available

✓

Your own self-contained home with kitchen, bathroom, laundry and courtyard/garden

✓

✗

Couples stay together

✓

✗

Family and friends can stay whenever they want

✓

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Pets are welcome

✓**

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No means-testing or asset-testing required for move-in

✓

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Call 13 28 36 to book a tour **Subject to management approval. ^This comparison is a guide only and we encourage you to compare for yourself. FRE250

Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour 13 28 36 aveo.com.au/freedom 102 Coffs Coast focus

92 Taloumbi Road, Coffs Harbour