Coffs Coast Focus - i165

165 OCTOBER 2024

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FIONA MINTO

The Coffs Harbour Comets Reserve Grade are back to back Premiers after winning the grand final against an undefeated Macksville team. We spoke to team Captain Joey Cudmore about this year’s season and the boys’ success.

Fiona Minto is a local artist whose ability to create beautiful visual forms flows from painting to photography to ceramics and beyond. Ceramic art is her most recent passion since completing her Diploma of Ceramics.

Ben and his wife Meg are the proud owners of The Dorrigo Butcher and The Dorrigo Deli. They took over the butcher shop with a goal of providing high quality, locally sourced food, whilst supporting local agriculture and tourism.

BEN & MEG GARNOCK

JOEY CUDMORE

CATH FOWLER

CELEBRATE 90 YEARS OF HISTORY

Jacaranda Garden Party

FRIDAY 25TH OCTOBER – SUNDAY 3RD NOVEMBER

Join us this Jacaranda Festival and celebrate 90 years of rich history! Be sure to admire the Jacaranda queens showcased throughout the Centre, a testament to the town’s vibrant tradition.

Don't miss the breathtakingly lit Jacaranda tree we will have featured during the festival from Friday 25th October to Sunday 3rd November, a stunning highlight of the event.

Mark your calendars for Jacaranda Thursday on 31st October, where you can enjoy the wonderful dress-up festivities. This year promises to be a spectacular celebration, lled with colour, culture, and community spirit. We can't wait to see you there!

Welcome to the OCTOBER 2024 EDITION.

As October unfolds across our sunburnt country, we find ourselves basking in the onset of spring - a time for rejuvenation, celebration, and the vibrant beauty of the Coffs Coast landscape. With flowers blooming and the weather warming up, it’s the perfect moment to embrace the great outdoors and reconnect with what makes this land so extraordinary.

On the cover this month we feature a couple of legendary local chefs. Greg Watkins is the Head Chef of C.ex Group. He has been in the industry for over 35 years and has been Head Chef since 2011. Peter Nash is the Sous

COFFS COAST

Chef with 27 years of experience, and what a team they make! Did you know that C.ex Group serves an average of 12,226 meals every month to their members and guests? The top two choices are the classic roast pork, with 1,223 serves monthly, and chicken schnitzel, with 427 monthly. C.ex Coffs spends between $160,000 - $200,000 per month on food costs, a major contribution to local suppliers. Their chefs rack up an impressive 608 hours per week in the kitchen, delivering delicious meals to diners, with total catering wages annually equating to $2.7 million.

Also inside this edition, we feature The National Holden Motor Museum, which is a new permanent feature at the Coffs Coast

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Bunker Gallery and showcases a range of the motoring icon’s history alongside 25 rare cars. The collection is owned by local legend and motoring expert Geoff King. We had a chat with him about the collection and how it all came together to reopen the gallery with this exciting new addition. We speak to Joey Cudmore, Captain of The Coffs Harbour Comets Reserve Grade team, who are back to back Premiers after winning the grand final against an undefeated Mackville team, about this year’s season and how the boys have pulled together as a team to achieve this level of success. There is so much locally driven content inside this edition, and we hope you enjoy reading it all!

PHOTOGRAPHY / EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR

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Daisy Moroney - Daisyfocusmag@gmail.com

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Rachel Law- wedeliverfocus@gmail.com

Geoff King

THE HOLDEN MUSEUM

The National Holden Motor Museum is a new permanent feature at the Coffs Coast Bunker Gallery and showcases a range of the motoring icon’s history alongside 25 rare cars. The collection is owned by local legend and motoring expert Geoff King. We had a chat with him about the collection and how it all came together to reopen the gallery with this exciting new addition.

Could you give us a bit of an overview of the Holden Motor Museum exhibition and how the idea for it came about?

When the Bunker Gallery fell on hard times, a meeting was held of concerned stakeholders as to how to generate additional income for the National Cartoon Gallery. It was at that stage the idea came to

me to offer my car collection to be shown in the gallery upstairs, which coincidentally was around the same time of the closure of the National Holden Motor Museum in Echuca due to the owner’s retirement.

Rotary, who helped establish the Bunker, and the then Board members all thought it was a great idea. From there the rest is history and we’ve now created a very important addition to the tourism attractions of Coffs Harbour. What can we expect to see when visiting the museum?

Holden is one of Australia’s most iconic brands, and the motor museum gives a home to a major piece of our national identity and history.

Holden is one of Australia’s most iconic brands, and the motor museum gives a home to a major piece of our national identity and history. We have a display of rare Holdens and memorabilia, some from the now-closed Echuca Museum, including a Peter Brock Bathurst-winning No. 5 Commodore tribute, the Holden 48-215 (FX), the first model to be built in Australia, and a collection of rare motoring mementos which all deserve to be on show for the public to see.

The National Holden Motor Museum is one of three permanent exhibitions at The Bunker Gallery along with the National Cartoon Gallery downstairs and a small tribute to the Bunker and its role as part of the WWII history of Coffs Harbour.

Continued over...

How did this impressive collection come together?

Over some 35 years as a Holden dealer, I’ve seen plenty of cars, and whenever something special came along or vehicles were traded that I thought were collectible, I put these away so I could have my own collection of Australian motoring history. Whilst I was collecting these cars, the establishment of a museum wasn’t that high on my priority list. However, Geoff King Motors did make a donation to the

then National Holden Motor Museum in Echuca back around 1990 and this might have been a sign that a museum was eventually going to come our way. There’s an honour board for the support we gave to the old museum and it’s now part of our display.

The

feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with people calling in from all over the country on their travels and plenty of curious locals coming in as well.

pieces in the collection? Why do you feel they stand out or what is your connection to them?

Do you have any personal favourite

Whilst all the cars are very close to my heart, I think the HD Premier is probably my favourite. This particular one was sold by Maitland Motors in South Australia and has travelled a genuine 14,500 miles – it’s a terrific example of a classic car.

What has the reception to the exhibition been like so far?

We’ve had a terrific response to the exhibition. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive with people calling in from all over the country on their travels and plenty of curious locals coming in as well.

Anyone who grew up in Australia would either have owned, or know someone who owned a Holden. Visitors are fascinated by the history and legacy of the brand, especially the older models and celebrity drivers like Peter Brock, Craig Lowndes and

Mark Skaife, so it’s a real nostalgic display for many.

We

see just as much

enjoyment on the faces of old Holden owners as their grandkids who can’t believe what their nans and pops used to drive...

We were expecting to get plenty of questions about the collection, but it turned out that people would rather tell you stories about their association with Holden instead, which is a great compliment and an opportunity for us to continue to collect more history.

What have you enjoyed about being able to share part of the motoring icon’s history with the Coffs Coast community?

The most satisfying part is being able to give visitors an opportunity to remember a part of their own personal history. As I like to say, as the world changes, precious memories live on at the National Holden Motor Museum.

I also really enjoy seeing the enthusiasm

from our dedicated group of volunteers who turn up every day to open the gallery and show people through the museum.

Who do you think would enjoy this display? Is it open to anyone?

If you’ve ever owned a Holden or are a Holden fan you can spend hours reminiscing over the cars and the memorabilia in the collection, however, the display is of interest to anyone who has a curiosity about Australian history or our motoring manufacturing past.

We see just as much enjoyment on the faces of old Holden owners as their grandkids who can’t believe what their nans and pops used to drive, and I’m hoping to engage with the local schools to show them a part of Australia’s motoring history.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

The National Holden Motor Museum is part of The Bunker Gallery on City Hill, 1 John Champion Way. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 4 pm. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and concession, children under 18 $6 and children under 6 free.

Telephone 6651 7343 or email office@ nationalcartoongallery.com.au.

COFFS COMETS RESERVE GRADE

JOEY CUDMORE

The Coffs Harbour Comets Reserve Grade are back to back Premiers after winning the grand final against an undefeated Macksville team. We spoke to team Captain Joey Cudmore about this year’s season and how the boys have pulled together as a team to achieve this level of success.

When did you first start playing footy with the Comets?

What’s your history with the club?

I started in 2021 after COVID, one of the best decisions I made. I’ve created friendships for life here, and the way the club is run makes it not only enjoyable, but a pleasure to play at.

My history with the Comets stems back to the early 2000s when I used to play against them for my junior team, the Port Macquarie Sharks. I actually made my first grade debut against the Comets scoring 2 tries at Stadium Australia.

The Comets Reserve Grade recently became back to back premiers, can you tell us a bit about the grand final and how you came out on top?

Yes we went back to back! It was easily the best achievement I’ve had in a Comets jersey. We knew what we were up against. Macksville were undefeated all season coming into the grand final so we knew the pressure was going to be on them. We spoke during the week about owning your moments in the game and making them count. We also tweaked our game plan a little and decided to attack their edges because we knew their strength was the forward pack and it paid off.

To see club legend Billy Griffiths score a hattrick, and the winning try, was the icing on the cake, not to mention Arthur Wilkinson’s 50 metre solo dash to the line.

What sort of preparation did you guys do in the lead up to the finals?

We kept the prep as normal as possible. The first grade boys kept showing up to give us a great couple of opposed sessions which really tighten us up for the game, so we’re very thankful to them… that’s the great culture we

have at the Comets.

You’re obviously doing some things right, what do you think your strengths have been this season?

Our strength is, and has been for sometime, something you can’t train for, and that’s the ability to play for each other. We have some really great personalities in the team as well and it makes training enjoyable!!

Rugby League is the greatest game of all. School friends come and go but rugby league mates are forever. I still talk to players I played with in 2003 in my first grade debut year.

Lacey and Jack Davy. What advice would you give to some of the younger players or kids thinking of giving footy a go?

What has the response been like from Comets supporters? What’s the community like at the club?

They have been great. As I previously stated, the first grade boys led by Macauley Dawson turned up without question to help us every session. We couldn't have done it without them, and our community is second to none, great people who have been ingrained within the club for years.

Do you or the team have any goals and aspirations for next year's season and beyond?

As a team the boys are going to chase a 3peat, which I can’t wait to see. We have a great core of young and older players who can really carry this club on their shoulders. Myself personally; I’m retiring and helping Scotty Street coach first grade, and can’t wait to blood some of these promising juniors and ever reliable reserve graders through the likes of Nathan Dyson, Arthur Wilkinson, Logan

I’ve always said this, rugby league is the greatest game of all. School friends come and go but rugby league mates are forever. I still talk to players I played with in 2003 in my first grade

debut year. Then there are years like this year when we as a team created a bond for life after achieving the ultimate by beating the undefeated Macksville team… Our coaches Blair Blanchette & Vikram Atwal have to be commended on doing a fantastic job balancing all the personalities and getting the team to where we are!!

Additional Photos by Eden.

DRAPHT

With a platinum record, multi-platinum and gold singles and two ARIAs already under his belt, it’s no great secret that Drapht is a songwriting prodigy. When 5th October

Where The Hoey Moey Doors 8pm Tickets $40 from hoeymoey.com

CAR BOOT MARKET

Discover a hidden gem during your visit!

Join this bustling event, where you’ll unearth a treasure trove of pre-loved household goods, including fashionable clothes, nostalgic toys, practical household items, sports gear, gardening equipment, and lush plants. When 6th October

Where Castle Street, Coffs Harbour

Time 8:30am until 1:30pm

O C T O B E R

DREAM ON ARTS MUSIC AND CULTURE FESTIVAL

Experience the deadly talent of First Nations artists, dancers, makers and musicians in this celebration of culture, connection and community. There’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy! When 8th October

Where Yarrawarra Cultural Centre Time 10am until 2pm

THE CON CELEBRATING

40 YEARS

To mark its 40th anniversary, the Con is hosting a musical weekend celebration featuring concerts showcasing the talents of current students and teachers, performances by illustrious alumni, and opportunities for attendees to try playing various instruments. When 11th until 13th October

Where Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium More info coffscon.org.au

BILLIE-JO PORTER

For country girl Billie-Jo Porter the journey into music has been a natural one. Neighbouring the nation’s country music capital Tamworth, it seems appropriate that Billie-Jo felt drawn to country music. When 13th October

Where Coramba Hotel Time 12pm

DORRIGO FOLK & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL

The Dorrigo Folk and Bluegrass Festival is a three-day celebration of local, national and international acoustic folk, bluegrass and old-time music.

When 25th until the 27th October

Where Dorrigo Showground Tickets dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au

CELEBRATE YOUR

TUESDAY 5 NOVEMBER FROM 12PM

ENJOY AN ITALIAN STYLE LUNCHEON PLUS A GLASS OF SPARKLING ON ARRIVAL.

ENJOY OUR VIBRANT OUTDOOR BAR AREA, DELICIOUS COCKTAILS, A WIDE SELECTION OF BEERS, AND A TAPAS MENU PERFECT FOR SHARING.

SCAN QR CODE TO VIEW OUR CURRENT EVENT PACKAGES AT

FIONA MINTO

ARTISTS of the MONTH

Fiona Minto is a local artist whose ability to create beautiful visual forms flows from painting to photography to ceramics and beyond. Ceramic art is her most recent passion and the medium she has been exploring and exhibiting most since completing her Diploma of Ceramics last year.

Hhelped to give me the confidence to keep going with my work into my adult life. How has your art practice evolved over the years?

Over the years I haven’t limited myself to any one medium and I have tried to learn more about a range of media and use them in various combinations depending on my ideas at the time.

i Fiona. Can you share a bit about how your journey as an artist began?

I have always enjoyed Visual Arts and being creative. I like the state of mind it allows me to access, as well as the satisfaction of bringing an idea to life. I used to draw and paint a lot as a kid, and I remember digging clay from the quarry on our property in Western Australia and making small pots and other items from it. Art was always my favourite subject at school, and I had an amazing Secondary Visual Arts teacher called Mr. Schultz. He was very encouraging and

Over the years my art practice has taken many forms, twists and turns. My output level varies a bit depending on what else is happening in my life, but I always have some sort of creative project on the go. I always knew I wanted to study Fine Arts, however when I finished school I also wanted to get out of Perth and have some adventures, so I travelled the world for five years, working as a chalkboard artist and signwriter to make money. I kept experimenting with drawing, painting and photography during these years, and eventually settled in Melbourne to complete a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Hons) majoring in Photography at Victorian College of the Arts. This was back in the film days, and I loved darkroom printing because of the hands-on processes involved. My photography there included multi-media experimentations with textiles, painting and drawing and lots of experimental dark-room printing to develop and change colours. I didn’t really make the transition to digital photography as I didn’t want to be spending a lot of time in front of a computer. Over the years I haven’t limited myself to any one medium and have tried to learn more about a range of media and use them in various combinations depending on my ideas at the time. For example, in previous work I have used photography and painting together, and I think of my most recent work as a combination of ceramics and painting. I went on to complete a Graduate Diploma in Education in 2015 to become a Secondary Visual Arts Teacher, and last year I finished a Diploma of Ceramics here in Coffs Harbour. I also really enjoy teaching art to young people and running small wellbeing groups with a Visual Arts focus.

Continued over...

Can you tell us about your current works? What is your medium of choice?

After my most recent studies I have been working in ceramics. I still feel like I have a lot to learn in terms of technical skills and so much can go wrong when you are working with such high temperatures, sensitive glazes and chemicals! I have always loved the saying that ‘cooking is an art and baking is a science’.

I am definitely more of a cook than a baker and have never been great at following precise recipes and formulas. So, while I am naturally very challenged by ceramics, I have managed to find some processes that work for me. Most of my recent work has been slip cast.

I make plaster moulds, and then mix up jars of porcelain slip and stain them different colours. This allows me to apply them to the moulds much like paint and I can then work in a more spontaneous way. The colours don’t change too dramatically upon firing. I think of it like making abstract paintings in the form of functional vessels.

There are so many different ways you apply the slip and I am enjoying exploring the possibilities of working in this way.

How would you describe your art style?

I draw inspiration from everywhere and it is ever changing. At the moment I love the 80s and bright and fluorescent colours. Finally, I know I am not alone in drawing inspiration from David Bowie.

My style varies depending on the medium, but overall I would say it is personal, emotive and experimental.

Where do you tend to draw a lot of inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from everywhere and it is ever changing. I make a point of visiting galleries wherever I go and I always have music on in the background, no matter what I am doing. At the moment I love the 80s and I love bright and fluorescent colours.

As far as other ceramicists go, one of my favourites is Chrystie Longworth who works on the South Coast of NSW. She has a really bright, playful yet simple aesthetic, which she manages to combine with refined technical skills. Finally, I know I am not alone in drawing inspiration from David Bowie.

To me he is the embodiment of ultimate creativity. Can you tell us about your process? How do you usually move from a concept or idea to a finished piece?

I tend to work in quite an intuitive way, and I will consider different ideas until one presents itself repeatedly: then I know to follow it. I also find that if I create some sort of framework of structure for my work, I can then bounce off this in experimental ways.

Have you got any recent and/or upcoming exhibitions you can tell us about?

In June this year I was involved in a small group exhibition as part of the Bellingen Readers Writers festival called Paperback. We were asked to respond to the theme of storytelling.

I used a collection of small bottles that had come into my possession over the years, for various reasons, and slip cast versions

FIONA MINTO

of them using coloured porcelain with gold rims. I wrote my version of their stories and tied them to the rafters, linking them back to their corresponding bottles with string. I’ve got another exhibition coming up in midNovember at Pack Gallery in Byron Bay which I’m very excited about!

What are some of your aspirations moving into the future in regards to your art?

I want to continue to learn about ceramics and develop my skills in this area. I also want to continue exhibiting because working to a goal or deadline helps me to push myself to keep making, learning and developing as an artist.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

I can be contacted on Instagram at fionamintostudio.

Thanks Fiona.

Kalani Wood

Wood

Kalani Wood is an inspirational local author, who, at the age of twelve, has just released his second published novel! passionate about writing and sharing his love of storytelling with other kids his age, and his enthusiasm is catching on at many local schools as Kalani shares his stories and his own journey with his peers.

who, He is enthusiasm as shares with

Hi Kalani. Can you tell us about how your storytelling journey began?

When I was in Year 3, I wrote a poem called The Gloomy Night. My English teacher loved it and that was when I first started to know that I loved creative writing.

Can you give us a brief description of your first book, The Sapphire Envelope, and the ideas behind it?

The Sapphire Envelope was my first book

which was initially a short story that I had started in class in Year 5. Once I got to about page 5, I thought I could make it a longer story. I knew the goals that I wanted to achieve for the characters of the book. There are 5 kids who go on a plane to the Amazon jungle and then it crashes and the children have to survive as best they can. They meet different creatures and experiences along the way as they try to find their way home. What was it like for you to receive such a positive reaction to this book? How did your friends and community support

influence your decision to continue writing?

My friends, family and teachers supported and encouraged me to keep going with my writing. One of the best things was when my friends dressed up as characters from my book for Book Week, as well as many friends asking when my next book was going to be finished. Your book has been used in local primary schools and you have done a few school presentations locally. What is it like presenting as an author to your own peers?

You’ve been writing consistently over the past few years. How do you stay motivated, and what challenges have you faced with this process?

Because I’m a kid, I live like all other kids and have sport and school and other things that I enjoy. As long as you are consistently writing over a period of time, instead of three hours a day which might make you tired, I do half an hour a day over a year. I stay motivated by knowing that it’s such a big achievement to finish it. I love writing and want to share the creative stories I have.

Can you share any strategies or techniques you use to organise your ideas and structure your stories? What advice would you give to other students your age about writing?

One of the best things was when my friends dressed up as characters from my book for Book Week, as well as many friends asking when my next book was going to be finished. dressed friends

Talking to kids is different to adults because I can relate to them and show them how even as a young person you can achieve the goal of writing a book. It’s different when you hear this from someone your age compared to an adult. They are also not as scared to ask questions and don’t feel as intimidated, so can ask me anything. The best part of one of my school talks was when the teacher asked who wanted to write a book at the end of the session and nearly everyone raised their hand.

Having someone young talking to them helps them feel it is achievable, which it is. I love to change their perspective that they don’t need to be an adult to write a book and they can still enjoy other things in life. You have recently released your second book that’s designed to be the first in a series. Can you share a bit about it and your process for developing the story?

This story involved a lot more planning than my first book because I had more time to think about it and to plan the character development. The book is about Felix and his friends who discover a key and try to figure out its mysteries. They go back in time and experience major moments in history, all while trying to discover the meaning behind the key.

I write stories differently to how an adult may do it. They might use a whiteboard and analyse how characters connect and use a lot of process, whereas I still plan, but usually all the creativity comes from my head and I just know how I want it to be from start to finish. My advice for young people my age is to think about something you love, write out the characters, a timeline of chapters, and what you want to achieve in each chapter. Then just do about half an hour each day of writing so you stay motivated and positive. My first book started because I love birds of the Amazon and I took it from there.

What are your goals for the future, and how do you see your storytelling evolving as you grow?

Because I haven’t reached an adult level of writing yet I’m sure my ability to tell a story will grow. This book has changed a lot from my first one, I can write better now than I could in Year 5. I want to write a book every year to show all kids that writing a book is possible even when you are young, as long as you are creative and have the drive to keep going. I want to inspire kids to write. Where can we find your books or get in touch?

Both my books are available at the Book Warehouse.

Thanks Kalani.

Hi Geoff. As one of the founding members of the Veteran, Vintage and Classic Car Club, what inspired you and the others to start the club 50 years ago?

I was approached by Harry Smith, the new manager for Port a Gas. He had been in the Dubbo Club and noticed an old car in my yard and thought I may be interested in helping form a Vintage Car Club in Coffs. A few days later, five of us, Harry, Ray Foster, John Hardacre (now all deceased), Mick O’Neill and myself held our first meeting in Harry’s office in July 1974. We were soon joined by several others including Sawtell Fire Captain Noel Hamey who came with a vintage Garford fire engine and a larger place to meet ,so we relocated meetings to the fire station in Elizabeth Street.

What were the early days of the club like? Can you share some memorable moments from those first few years?

In those days, we were all a little less aged, had young families and our regular weekend events included the children. Sports days, picnics, visits to places of interest and Santa arriving in a vintage car were on our calendar. As a club,

GEOFF MAUNDER

THE VETERAN, VINTAGE AND CLASSIC CAR CLUB

One of the founding members of The Veteran, Vintage and Classic Car Club. The club is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and will be hosting the Great Eastland Hub Rally, an annual event, held on 25th - 28th October.

most members and family regularly travelled to two or three-day Vintage Car Rallies as far distant as Dubbo. Our first club registered vehicle was Gary Dibley’s 1913 Model T Ford followed by a 1928 Model A Ford owned by Mick O’Neill, both restored by their owners.

ere will be an assortment of cars from veterans to the 80s. One previous member now living in Brisbane will be bringing his veteran car.

Can you tell us about your car/collection?

What’s its story?

My first vehicle was a 1927 Chevrolet which was not registered. After we formed the club, I updated to a restored 1928 model with side curtain windows, four-wheel brakes and full road registration. I then progressed to a 1929 Victory Six Dodge Sedan with wind up windows and hydraulic brakes - such luxury. I drove this car to the Dubbo Rally - wife and three kids, along with several other members. I had several other cars over the years from restorer’s dreams (or nightmares) to complete vehicles including various models of Essex, Graham, Rover and Buick. My current collection is all British and on historic registration.

A 1962 Wolseley 24/80, a 1966 Triumph TR4A sports car and a 1962 Austin London Black Cab which was on the road in London for its maximum ten years. It was then purchased by Alan Bain from Wauchope, who drove it all over the UK and as far as Istanbul in Turkey then back to London travelling through nineteen European countries. He then shipped it to Australia in 1975 and eventually sold it to an accountant from Toowoomba. It was for sale at a Toowoomba Swap Meet in 2012 and I told my wife about it when I reported in that night. She said, “Did you buy it?” No, however we went back to Toowoomba the next week and did a deal with the owner. It arrived on a truck just after midnight on 29th February, my wife’s birthday. I later met Alan Bain who by then had moved to Toowoomba and learnt a lot of “Cab’s” history. It is basically in its original condition. The club is known for participating in charitable and social events. Can you tell us about some of these events?

The Club is a Non-Profit Associated Club and

for many years has supported local institutions with profits from rallies, swap meets and surplus funds. We frequently have requests to display cars for organisations and events such as the Collectors Fair, Coffs, Dorrigo and Bellingen Shows, the Sawtell Street Parade and Fun Day, parade of cars for the opening of the Bangalor Bridge on Hogbin Drive, Yarilla Place, displays at retirement villages and many other events.

Tell us about your involvement in transporting veterans for ANZAC Day and why that connection is important to the club?

The Club is a Non-Profit Associated Club and for many years has supported local institutions with profits from rallies, swap meets and surplus funds.

For many years we have transported veterans unable to march in our vehicles at the head of the parade to the cenotaph in Sawtell and Bellingen on Anzac Day. As a lot of our vehicles are of that era, the cars bring back happy memories of earlier days and such gratitude for the experience from our passengers.

This year, the club is hosting the Great Eastland Hub Rally. What can we expect from this event?

We are the host club this year for a Rally which alternates between Taree, Tamworth, Armidale and Coffs Harbour. It involves vintage and classic car clubs, however members of any likeminded club are welcome to register and attend. In the past we have had visitors from as far away as Victoria. 2024 is special for the Coffs Harbour Club, being our 50th year - quite an

achievement. I am the only founding member still active in the club and over the past years have seen many people passing through the club, enjoying their cars and club fellowship as well as some mechanical assistance from other members. Not all members have had vehicles, but many long-lasting friendships have been formed.

What are you most excited about for this year’s rally? Are there any unique vehicles or activities planned that attendees should look out for?

We have two runs planned. A gentle drive through the Orara Valley and Yellow Rock Road. It will be great to catch up with old friends from other clubs and hopefully some of the past members will call in for a chat over the weekend and maybe attend our Saturday night celebration dinner. There will be an assortment of cars from veterans to the 80s. One previous member now living in Brisbane will be bringing his veteran car.

After 50 years, how do you feel about the legacy the club has created within the community and among motoring enthusiasts and as the club moves into its next 50 years, what do you hope for future members and the preservation of motoring heritage?

Coffs Harbour Vintage Car Club was the first ‘old car’ club in Coffs. Since the early days, many clubs including cars, motorcycles, tractors, farm machinery, military and special interest clubs have formed, all contributing to the preservation of a past era of motoring which would be lost to future generations if clubs like ours didn’t exist. There are many fantastic car museums in the world, some of which we have been fortunate to visit in Europe, UK and Australia including our new Australian Holden Museum at the Bunker, all while keeping the history of motoring alive for future generations.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

The best contact is via our club email chvvcc@ gmail.com or check our magazine “Splutter” on sites.google.com/view/chvvccc/home

Thanks Geoff

Radiology achside

Beachside Radiology has been a trusted part of the Coffs Harbour community since opening in 2010, proudly serving the region with advanced medical imaging services.

Our long-standing staff, familiar with local patients and deeply committed to their care, contribute to the personalised and compassionate service we offer. As one of the leading providers of imaging services in

the area, we offer a comprehensive range of diagnostics, including general X-ray, dual-energy CT, MRI, fluoroscopy, ultrasound (including 3D obstetric and elastography), interventional radiology, and bone densitometry/body composition scanning. We are dedicated to clinical excellence and patient-centred care, maintaining the highest

standards in diagnostic and interventional imaging. Our experienced and committed team is passionate about improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing the patient experience. Additionally, we strive to make our services accessible to all by offering bulk billing for many Medicareeligible studies.

GROUP

C.ex

Abrief history of C.ex Group and its founding principles.

C.ex Group, based in Coffs Harbour, began as the Coffs Ex-Services Club, established to provide a place for veterans to gather, socialise, and support each other back in 1949. With three venues including C.ex Coffs, C.ex Woolgoolga and C.ex Urunga, it has evolved into a community hub that promotes veteran support, dining, entertainment, leisure activities and a variety of services.

Dining options and current promotions

C.ex Group offers a diverse range of dining options catering to various tastes and preferences, these include:

• Ribeye Kitchen: Known for its fine dining experience and premium steak offerings.

• The Brasserie: A more relaxed dining setting that offers a variety of dishes, including daily specials. It’s a very family friendly restaurant and perfect for large gatherings.

• Papaveros Italian Restaurant: Specialising in Italian cuisine with a range of authentic dishes, it’s also a family friendly outlet.

• PLANK Coffee Shop: A casual place for coffee,

light meals, and snacks.

Current promotions include weekly raffles, bingo and poker as well as the upcoming Seafood Carvery Buffet, Melbourne Cup Luncheon, Hello Spring dining specials, Mate Mondays and more.

Upcoming ticketed entertainment

There's always entertainment on at C.ex Group with a range of ticketed shows to suit all tastes including Shannon Noll, Marina Prior & Michael Cormick, The Pop Squad, The Fab Four and more. There is regular free entertainment in the Vista Lounge where you will see some great local artists and for something different try one of our Puzzle Night competitions or the upcoming Trivia night.

There's always entertainment on at C.ex Group with a range of ticketed shows to suit all tastes including Shannon Noll, Marina Prior & Michael Cormick, The Pop Squad, The Fab Four and more.

Evolution to meet the needs of members and the community

Over the years, C.ex Group has adapted its

offerings to meet the changing needs of its members and the broader community. Initially focusing on providing a place for veterans, the club expanded to include more diverse entertainment options, modern dining experiences, and family-friendly activities. The facilities have been continuously updated, incorporating feedback from members to enhance comfort and appeal.

Role in the local community

This

centre will provide a range of programs specifically tailored to veterans and their families, including support groups, and access to services that help with physical and mental well-being.

C.ex Group plays a pivotal role in the local community by being a hub for social, cultural, and charitable activities. It serves as a venue for community meetings, local fundraising events, and social gatherings. It also supports local sports teams, schools, and non-profits groups, thereby fostering a spirit of community and connection. During the 2023-2024 financial year, the C.ex Group contributed over $400,000 to local sporting groups, schools, clubs and organisations. Their support of the C.ex Coffs International Stadium assists with the procurement of many great events to the Coffs Coast including NRL, AFL, OzTag, the Big Bash League and Elton John.

Recent community projects or events

The C.ex Group has a few flagship events held annually. Possibly the most prominent of those is the C.ex Community Crew Sleepout. The sleepout has been run for the past 10 years with over $600,000 raised so far to support local organisations assisting with homelessness on the Coffs Coast. Other notable events sponsored by the C.ex Group include the C.ex Art Show & Competition, C.ex Group Running Festival, C.ex Group Giving Tree and the C.ex Community Crew Breakfast Club.

Supporting veterans and their families

Supporting veterans is at the core of C.ex

Group’s mission. Along with the Coffs Harbour RSL Sub Branch and Coffs Harbour Legacy, the C.ex Group assists with local veterans welfare. The new apartment building, CODA, will also be home to a Veterans Centre. This centre will provide a range of programs specifically tailored to veterans and their families, including support groups, and access to services that help with physical and mental well-being. The club continues to honour its roots by ensuring veterans feel welcome and supported in all of their venues.

Programs and activities for members

C.ex Group offers various programs for its members, including lawn bowls, golf, trivia nights, mahjong, scrabble and intra clubs like the C.ex Coffs Car Club and the C.ex Coffs Camera

Club. Their venues are a safe, comfortable place for people to catch-up with family and friends.

Goals and future plans for C.ex Group

C.ex Group is currently in the construction stages of the apartment building, CODA. The completion of this construction is the short-term focus, however there is always plans for the future including accommodation on the club site and the refurbishment of C.ex Woolgoolga and C.ex Coffs. It is a continuous goal to ensure our members, and their guests feel welcomed and comfortable in their venues.

How the general public can get involved or support C.ex Group

The general public can get involved by becoming a member of C.ex Group, participating in the various community events and programs, or simply dining at one of their venues. Supporting the C.ex Group helps them to continue contributing to the wider community.

Greg Watkins

C.EX GROUP - HEAD CHEF

35 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

Can you share a bit about your culinary journey and what inspired you to become a chef? I began my career as a kitchen hand at the Pier Hotel in 1989 and developed a passion for cooking. After completing my apprenticeship at Bonville International Golf Club, I expanded my culinary skills across Australia, including roles at The Marriott Gold Coast, Couran Cove Resort, and The Sheraton Port Douglas. I decided to open my own restaurant, Port ‘O’ Call, in Port Douglas which I operated for a few years before returning to Coffs Harbour in 2006. I joined C.ex Coffs as a Sous Chef and was appointed Head Chef in 2011.

Who has been the most influential person in your career and why? Murray Twaits, my Head Chef during my apprenticeship, was a big influence on me. He inspired me with his creativity and emphasis on quality ingredients.

How would you describe your cooking style and culinary philosophy? My culinary style is quite diverse. Having worked in many different settings I have adapted my skills to suit the environment whether it be fine dining, event service or café style.

How do you stay creative and inspired in the kitchen? I find inspiration by visiting different restaurants, from the Gold Coast to the Hunter Valley. Exploring unique styles of other chefs encourages me to reinvent my approach constantly.

Can you tell us about one of your signature dishes and what makes it special? My favourite dish to create is Lobster Thermidor. It’s such a classic dish, that when done right, is one of the best things you could eat.

What’s the most rewarding part of being a chef for you? The ability to be creative is rewarding. I enjoy working with our team of 16 chefs from all over the world, they always show me different recipes and techniques and they’re all so passionate.

Peter Nash

C.EX GROUP - SOUS CHEF

27 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY

Can you share a bit about your culinary journey and what inspired you to become a chef? I have been a qualified chef for 21 years, having started as a kitchen hand when I was 17. I enjoyed hospitality and food tech classes during high school and being a chef was a lifestyle that seemed to suit me. I worked in a small cafe and at another club but wanted something more from my career, which is why I pursued a job with the C.ex Group.

Who has been the most influential person in your career and why? Michael Ellis, a former Head Chef at C.ex Group, greatly influenced me. He taught me a lot about event catering, which is now one of my primary focuses.

How would you describe your cooking style and culinary philosophy? I love working with fresh ingredients, especially seafood. It's a favourite of my family, and I enjoy incorporating it into the dishes we offer at C.ex Coffs.

How do you stay creative and inspired in the kitchen? I love prepping for major events and offsite catering. There’s always an exciting event on the horizon, and this aspect of my role keeps me inspired as a chef by breaking the routine of everyday kitchen service.

What techniques or ingredients do you find yourself using most often, and why? Working in events is often large-scale catering where meals must be consistent and use simple, refined ingredients to maintain quality and efficiency. It’s a specialised skill to serve high volumes successfully. What’s the most rewarding part of being a chef for you?

Over the years I’ve had the opportunity to work with chefs from all over the world. It has helped me grow as a chef as I learn new techniques and dishes from them. I love seeing people enjoy the meals I’ve created for them.

THE HAPPY FROG

New bulk buy meal deals make a budget-friendly, healthy, tasty takeaway. Feed a family or just you. Patties, lasagne, frittata, pies and salads from $6 per serve. Open late weekdays until 6pm (Sat until 3pm) (02) 6651 6518 | 16 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour thehappyfrog.com.au

99 ON PARK

Fully licenced restaurant and bar. A relaxed elegant dining experience with a French infused menu. Don't miss our weekly specials. Wednesday nights - 4 course set menu and Thursday Nights - French Bistro Night. Fresh, innovative and delicious. Open for dinner from 5pm, Wednesday to Saturday. 99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour Ph: (02) 6699 2606 | www.99onpark.com.au

DARK ARTS CAFE & BAR

The something unexpected, behind that laneway door... 6.30am, 7 days (brekky/lunch) | functions | parties Cox Lane, Coffs Harbour www.darkartscafeandbar.com.au | Ph: (02) 6600 1505 laneway@darkartscafeandbar.com.au

ELEMENT BAR

Located in the heart of the Coffs Jetty Strip, Element Bar is one of Australia’s most popular & vibrant venues. Delicious food, an incredible range of drinks, live music | midday til late, 7 days (lunch/dinner) 380 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour Jetty | Ph: (02) 6651 6655 www.elementbar.com.au | pretzel@elementbar.com.au

STEF BEACHSTONE

Excellent wood fired pizza, good vibes, happy hour drinks and live music. All info on our website stefbeachstone.com.au and follow us

@stefbeachstone

THREE BLUE DUCKS

New winter menu full of Ducks' classics, using the best local and seasonal produce NSW has to offer. Join us for Monday Curry Night and a great value Locals' Night on Thursdays! (02) 6655 5505 threeblueducks.com

1381 Waterfall Way, Bellingen

PAPAVEROS

Located on the ground floor at C.ex Coffs, Papaveros boasts an Italian style setting offering delicious pizzas, pastas, authentic Italian entrees and mains plus a selection of delicious desserts prepared by our Italian trained chefs. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 5.30pm Cex Coffs 2-6 Vernon Street, Coffs Harbour 6652 3888

KING TIDE BREWING

With a large selection of beers crafted onsite and a delicious range of family friendly, European pub food, King Tide Brewing is the ultimate brewpub destination on the coast.

1 Studio Lane, Coffs Harbour CBD

SAWTELL RSL CLUB

Experience the renowned Seafood Smorgasbord extravaganza, exclusively at Sawtell RSL, every Saturday!

Priced at just $65 for members and $75 for non-members per person.

(Kids aged 2-12 $20) BOOKINGS Essential! Call 02 6653 1577 38 – 40 First Avenue Sawtell NSW 2452

MISS KIM'S

Welcome to Sawtell’s newest restaurant and bar located in the heart of Sawtell on First Ave. Enjoy tasty meals from breakfast to dinner and sip on fine wines, cocktails and Coopers tap beers at our bar.

1/24 First Ave, Sawtell, NSW, Australia, New South Wales (02) 5698 5916 | admin@misskims.com.au

Dark Arts ELEMENT BAR

CAFÉ AND BAR

What inspired the concept of your restaurant, and how did you decide on the theme and cuisine you offer? Dark Arts is built around that mysterious ‘something’ tucked away behind the laneway doors. Our atmosphere and menu blend in together to create a comfort setting feel for everyone to find peace at Dark Arts. What are some of your signature dishes, and what makes them unique? Our ‘big brekky plates’ are crowd pleasers. They offer the classic belly filling breakfast feast style, with the alternative to satisfy meat lovers, vegetarians and vegans.

How do you incorporate local and seasonal ingredients into your menu? Working closely and maintaining relationships with our local suppliers to help source and deliver fresh and vibrant ingredients is key to serving dishes packed full of flavour and love.

How do you create a memorable dining experience for your guests? Atmosphere, execution, big personality and an enormous passion for food, drink and customer experience is everything!

What are your future plans for the restaurant, such as new menu items, expansions, or events? Continuing to enjoy and nail being a part of this exciting industry; an endless search for areas to grow and better ourselves as a team and venue and to explore new ideas and styles as our world evolves. What food trends are you currently excited about, and how do they influence your menu? Honestly, trends aren’t something we keep up with. What excites us is what we feel is right, works and we know our customers enjoy.

How can we get in touch?

darkartscafeandbar.com.au, (02) 6600 1505 or pop in to Cox Lane and say g’day.

What inspired the concept of your restaurant, and how did you decide on the theme or cuisine you offer? We offer a uniquely themed hideaway space in Coffs. A rustic, yet authentic laid out bar that matches our large and diverse comfort style menu.

What are some of your signature dishes, and what makes them unique? Our share platters and chook wings are big hits and have been well known for years. If you’re contemplating having a light grazing or heavy belly filling picking style meal with some good company, the option is there!

How do you incorporate local and seasonal ingredients into your menu? We work closely with our local suppliers to source the freshest seasonal and flavoursome ingredients all year round to plate up.

How do you create a memorable dining experience for your guests? Element Bar is

based around having total passion and genuine care for customers to enjoy their time in the venue, consistent execution from us, an atmosphere that stands out and our teams personalities coming together.

What are your future plans for the restaurant, such as new menu items, expansions, or events? Continue doing what we do best! Push ourselves to explore refreshed food and drink ideas, enjoy being a part of this wonderful industry and have fun as a team, and with our customers.

What food trends are you currently excited about, and how do they influence your menu? Honestly, we don’t follow trends. Sticking to what we do best and our style is what excites us.

How can we get in touch?

elementbar.com.au (02) 6651 6655 or mosey on down to the middle of the Jetty strip and grab a drink and a bite!

PALATE & PLY

At Palate & Ply Café, WE BELIEVE THAT

GREAT

COFFEE IS MORE

THAN

JUST A BEVERAGE —IT’S AN EXPERIENCE. Located at the heart of Coffs CBD our café stands out by offering something a bit different.

One of the highlights of Palate & Ply is our carefully curated selection of coffee from our very own roasting brand Big 5 Coffee Roasters. Whether you're a fan of bold, rich blends or prefer something light and fruity, we have something for every palate. We offer a dark roast, our special blend medium roast, a medium/dark roast decaf and a single origin of the month, all available and ground to order. We also offer our very own organic light roast, both instore and online, which has become

increasingly popular, and we are looking to add a 5th option on grinder in-store.

Roasting takes place weekly to make sure our coffee is at its best when served. Our beans are all Arabica sourced from sustainable regions around the world. Our full range of coffee beans is available instore and online at very competitive prices, either as whole beans or we can grind on site.

Palate & Ply is also the home of Nitro Cold Brew and Cold Drip coffees. The Nitro Cold Brew is made on our dark roast infused with nitrogen, resulting in a creamy, smooth texture, while the

cold drip method delivers a clean, refreshing cup served over ice.

Come for an amazing coffee but stay for a delicious meal. Open for breakfast and lunch Mon-Sat our menu changes with the seasons and we only use the best and freshest ingredients. All our cakes and slices are made instore.

Come in and see us, our friendly staff will make you feel at home. In a hurry, call ahead or text your order on 0434 700 910. Or visit www. palateandply.com.au for online sales and coffee subscriptions, with free local delivery.

Ben Garnock

THE DORRIGO BUTCHER

Ben Garnock and his wife Meg are the proud owners of The Dorrigo Butcher and The Dorrigo Deli. They took over the butcher shop with a goal of providing high quality, locally sourced food, whilst supporting local agriculture and tourism, and helping to elevate Dorrigo’s reputation as a ‘food destination’.

The Dorrigo Butcher has established a great reputation locally, can you tell us about your background and beginnings as a butcher?

My background is in civil engineering, but my wife Meg and I made a bold decision to change careers. We met while studying at university in Sydney and gained professional experience both in Australia and internationally. After we were married, we decided to settle closer to family. Meg’s parents own a farm in Dorrigo, which significantly influenced our choice to make this our home. We also saw a unique opportunity to leverage our connection to the farm, as we have always loved food. When we learned that the local butcher shop was for sale, we saw it as a unique opportunity. Despite our lack of experience in butchery and retail management, we were drawn to the idea of offering locally sourced produce and building our own business. When you opened the shop in Dorrigo, what were your main goals and ethos for the business?

We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of meat quality, prioritising local

produce, and actively supporting our community. Our business is guided by two primary objectives: first, to address our customers' growing desire for transparency regarding the origin and processing of their food; and second, to support local agricultural and tourism initiatives that enhance the region's reputation as a premier "food destination."

We are passionate about both food and food tourism and are committed to leading the way in establishing our region as a premier food destination.

We are passionate about both food and food tourism and are committed to leading the way in establishing our region as a premier food destination. As a traditional butchery that handcrafts all our products, including our smallgoods, we took a significant step forward in 2021 by opening The Dorrigo Deli. This new venture allows us to showcase our smokehouse creations and expand the local selection of gourmet delicatessen items.

You work with a lot of local farmers, can you share a bit about some of them?

We collaborate with several beef farmers from Dorrigo, 1 lamb farmer from Dorrigo, an additional lamb farmer from Guyra, 1 free-range

pork farmer from Lawrence (near Maclean), and local duck and organic chicken growers. While "local" branding has become increasingly fashionable, we take pride in offering more than just a marketing buzzword. We are lucky to live in a fertile region, enabling us to work closely with outstanding farms right in our own community, rather than sourcing from further away (anywhere in Australia).

Our beef suppliers are all based on the Dorrigo Plateau and include both renowned generational farmers and innovative modern enterprises. These farms produce premium pasture-raised beef which some consider to be the best in the country.

Demlane Farm operates a diverse farming system, integrating complementary animal and plant practices. They specialise in producing high quality meat-bred lamb, whilst also cultivating citrus that goes into their range of condiments. Mirrabooka Pork raises its heritage breed pigs in a stress-free, pastoral environment, producing

pork that boasts exceptional quality and flavour.

Why do you feel it is so important to buy from local farmers and provide local produce to the community?

Our Dorrigo Smokehouse Beef Jerky has won awards at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and the Royal Tasmanian Fine Food Awards for the past four years.

Local shops featuring local products fosters a strong sense of pride within our community, and our local produce offers a quality that distinguishes it from the greater marketplace. Our local farms are the cornerstone of our community - Dorrigo is a proud farming town with a rich agricultural heritage. By supporting local farms, we hope to contribute to a sustainable future for younger generations to work and care for the land.

At The Dorrigo Butcher, we celebrate our local farmers by providing detailed information about the breed, age, feeding conditions, and processing times of all our local beef, lamb, pork and chicken. We take pride in being a Whole Beast Butchery, a unique distinction that sets us apart from many butcher shops nowadays which primarily offer pre-packaged "box meat". Our customers can engage with us to ask specific

questions about each farm we source from and explore the benefits of nose-to-tail eating.

How do you think our local meat compares to other regions?

While we acknowledge that our perspective may be influenced by our local pride, we genuinely believe that the Dorrigo Plateau yields some of the finest meat in the country. The region’s climate, rich soils and farming knowledge contribute to the exceptional quality and flavour of the meat produced here. Our close relationships with local farmers and our firsthand experience with the produce reinforces our conviction that the Dorrigo Plateau stands out for its superior farming land.

Are there any particular products you guys are well known for, or that are particularly popular?

We receive rave reviews for our prime Dorrigo beef cuts, such as tomahawks. Dorrigo lamb from Demlane Farm draws in customers from near and far to purchase it. Our Dorrigo Smokehouse Beef Jerky has won awards at the Sydney Royal Fine Food Show and the Royal Tasmanian Fine Food Awards for the past four years. Additionally, our Dorrigo Smokehouse smallgoods, including award winning free-range

bacon, ham, and pastrami, smoked over natural wood chips are highly popular.

What have you personally been enjoying most about living and working on the Plateau?

Dorrigo is an exceptionally beautiful place to live, and we consider ourselves fortunate to call the Plateau home. We are embraced by a friendly and supportive community, and we love the convenience of having our children’s school, our shops, and our home all within walking distance. We are passionate about promoting Dorrigo and have dedicated considerable effort to positioning our businesses as premier food destinations for the region. Our goal is to ensure that every customer - whether local residents, businesses, or tourists - receives the highest quality produce and the best service, leaving with a positive impression of Dorrigo and its surrounding areas.

Where can we find out more about The Dorrigo Butcher or get in touch?

You can shop online at www.thedorrigobutcher. com.au or visit our Instagram and Facebook pages. We stock our products in a number of local shops, but you can find our meat at Fresco Coffs Central. We offer delivery every fortnight to the Coffs region, so you can order online and have our finest products delivered straight to your door!

Thanks Ben.

What inspired the concept of your restaurant, and how did you decide on the theme or cuisine you offer? Our restaurant is inspired by our love of travel, love of family and love for good food and wine. We wanted to create an atmosphere where our guests feel like they are dining at their friends’ place.

What are some of your signature dishes, and what makes them unique? Our menu is seasonal with some regular features such as tagliata di Manzo, and prawn linguine. Using tablelands beef, local seafood, and local fruit and veg to complement the heroes of each dish.

How do you incorporate local and seasonal ingredients into your menu? How do you create a memorable dining experience for your guests? Our philosophy around family is showcased in how we engage and look after our guests.

Quality service is complemented by a warm welcome and food made with honesty and passion. What are your future plans for the restaurant, such as new menu items, expansions, or events? We are still building our presence in Sawtell but we hope to add dining events where our wines can be showcased with food pairings and build our reputation for quality dining. What food trends are you currently excited about, and how do they influence your menu? With summer around the corner we are looking forward to adding more local seafood and tropical elements to our offerings.

How can we get in touch? Bookings can be made on line via our website at misskims.com. au or visit our socials to find out what events are coming up.

1/24 first ave, Sawtell, NSW, Australia, New South Wales (02) 5698 5916

admin@misskims.com.au

DORRIGO BUTCHER The

At The Dorrigo Butcher, we uphold the highest standards of quality by working with locally sourced, premium meat.

Our commitment to traditional butchery means that every cut and product is crafted with time honoured techniques and meticulous care. From our local farms to your table, we ensure that each piece of meat is not only of the highest standard but also supports our local farmers and producers.

Our expertise extends beyond traditional cuts. We handcraft a range of smoked smallgoods that are made on-site, using

tried and tested recipes. These awardwinning artisanal products reflect our dedication to quality and craftsmanship, offering you a taste of something truly handmade. Each smallgood is carefully smoked and seasoned to perfection, providing a rich, authentic flavour that stands apart from mass-produced alternatives.

We believe in the power of local connections. Our strong community ties drive us to support local agriculture and tourism initiatives, and promote the region’s

exceptional produce. By choosing The Dorrigo Butcher, you are not only enjoying premium meat but also contributing to the vibrant local plateau community and helping to elevate Dorrigo’s reputation as a top food destination.

Visit us today and experience the difference of traditional butchery, handcrafted smallgoods, and a genuine commitment to quality and community. Join us in celebrating the rich flavours of our region and enjoy the finest meat products that Dorrigo has to offer.

Dining

at C.ex Coffs

With four dining outlets at C.ex Coffs, our members are spoilt for choice! Choose from The Brasserie, Papaveros Italian Restaurant, Ribeye Kitchen or PLANK Coffee Shop, there’s a style to suit everyone.

Did you know that we serve an average of 12,226 meals every month to our members and guests? Our top two choices are the classic roast pork, with 1,223 serves monthly, and chicken schnitzel, with 427 monthly. C.ex Coffs spends between $160,000 - $200,000 per month on food costs, a major contribution to local suppliers.

Our chefs rack up an impressive 608 hours per week in the

kitchen, delivering delicious meals to our diners, with total catering wages annually equating to $2.7 million.

Our team of chefs, led by Greg Watkins and Peter Nash, are passionate about the food they serve, and we look forward to welcoming you to our dining outlets soon.

C.ex Coffs – visit cex.com.au to view current menus and outlet trading hours.

Melbourne

CUP

AT SAWTELL RSL

Join us for the race that stops the nation! At Sawtell RSL this November 5th.

Celebrate Melbourne Cup in style at Sawtell RSL with a fabulous luncheon and live entertainment by Tangle!  Enjoy a delicious 2-course alternate drop meal with the choice of tuscan lamb backstrap with honey, pumpkin puree, kipfler potatoes, broccolini, and merlot jus

or chicken breast with crab meat stuffing, potato bake, asparagus, and chive cream sauce, and then Blueberry Brulee or Espresso Pannacotta for dessert.

Be a part of the sweep plus there will be lucky door prizes, best dressed awards plus more! To find out more check out our website and set aside Tuesday, 5th November from12 PM. Book your tickets online now!

CDO YOU HAVE AN itchy dog?

hronic pruritus (itchy skin) is common in pets, and if your pet has been suffering for a while, you’ve likely sought help from a veterinarian. It’s crucial to get a proper diagnosis from a vet to understand what’s causing the itch and to explore treatment options.

Itching can result from various triggers, including diet, poor grooming products, environmental allergies, gut health issues, toxin exposure (like synthetic fragrances or cleaning chemicals), or reactions to flea and tick medications.

Prescription medications, such as Apoquel, offer fast relief by inhibiting Janus Kinase, which blocks the itch sensation.

However, Janus Kinase also plays a critical role in cell growth, immune function, and blood cell production. The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has advised that Janus Kinase inhibitors may not be suitable for individuals at risk of cardiovascular disease or cancer. While Apoquel is FDA-approved for long-term use in pets, we urge caution. Long-term suppression of key immune and cell functions

may pose risks, and many pets develop a tolerance over time, making the medication less effective or unaffordable.

During a nutrition consultation, we assess possible itch triggers by examining your pet’s diet, environment, medical history, and flea/tick treatments. We explore factors like ear infections or dental issues, but our primary focus is on diet. Many pets experience reduced itching or even complete relief through dietary changes, specifically by removing processed carbohydrates and incorporating fresh, whole foods that support the immune system and reduce inflammation.

In some cases, dietary interventions have allowed pets to reduce or even eliminate their dependency on Apoquel. While Apoquel can be beneficial in the short term to provide relief and allow healing, it’s essential to seek the underlying cause of your pet’s chronic itching for a long-term solution.

To read the full version of this and view references, please visit the blog page on our website. maggiespetco.com.au

ENTER TAINMENT

EVENTS + FUNCTIONS SPECIAL FEATURE

HeartbeatThe Bluegrass

Bridget Rees on building a Musical Legacy in Dorrigo.

Can you tell us about the origins of the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival, how it evolved, and what keeps you motivated to continue producing it?

The festival was my son Jack's idea, rooted in his passion for bluegrass and old-time music and a desire to create a family-friendly and participatory event in the scenic hills of Dorrigo.

The festival was initially supported by the Dorrigo Arts Council, but after ten years, it became an independent event. Over the past two decades, we've maintained the same vision, celebrating acoustic music while evolving the event to incorporate performers and audiences from across Australia and beyond.

When Jack moved on, I took over organising duties. For me, the festival succeeds when it offers an inspiring, nurturing space where people of all ages can connect, make lasting friendships, and experience the joy of music

together. Holding on to its community spirit keeps me going every year.

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced in organising the festival, and how have you overcome them?

One of our primary challenges has been staying true to our vision while balancing growth over financial sustainability. We've also dealt with unpredictable weather, like torrential rain and droughts. These challenges required us to adapt quickly, whether digging drainage channels or hand-watering the grounds. I am also proud that we managed to keep the festival going during the pandemic with a virtual event.

community of Dorrigo, both culturally and economically?

We offer inspiring workshops, performances, and a community atmosphere where friendships are easily formed. Our noalcohol policy helps foster a participative atmosphere.

How has the festival impacted the local

The festival has always worked to foster a sense of community, bringing together locals who have supported us. Culturally, the festival puts Dorrigo on the map, connecting the town with musicians worldwide. Economically, the town's population doubles during the festival weekend, and the event generates visits throughout the year. We've also engaged the community in numerous projects, from working with students to organising concerts and workshops such as "Folk in the Round," a cornerstone community engagement event. Can you share some of the most memorable moments or performances from the festival’s history?

Over the years, I've been fortunate to work with dedicated volunteers, sound crews, and committee members. Seeing young musicians who start out shy later perform confidently on the main stage has been incredibly rewarding. Creating the Old-Time Music School is another highlight, and travelling to the U.S. as part of Performing Arts Discovery: American Sounds was an unforgettable experience.

How do you select the artists and bands that perform at the festival each year?

Artists undergo an annual application process, and each submission is carefully considered. Since 2011, we've welcomed international performers who add richness and authenticity to our lineup. Every year, I invite some performers to help curate a program that fosters creativity and collaboration. I also make it a point to feature local musicians, and I'm passionate about artists who write socially conscious music reflective of our times. What strategies do you use to engage with the festival’s audience and ensure they have a memorable experience?

Engagement starts with constantly asking what we can do for our audience, many returning each year. We offer inspiring workshops, performances, and a community atmosphere where friendships are easily formed. Our no-alcohol policy helps foster a participative atmosphere.

What are your future plans and vision for the festival?

Moving forward, I'm excited to build on the foundations we've laid over the past 22

years. We're developing the kids' area creatively and musically, and I'm thrilled to progress the Old-Time Music School. Sustainability is a focus, and we're working towards becoming a waste-free festival. Continuing to invite overseas performers is also a priority.

How do you secure support for the festival, and what role do these connections play in its success?

The festival relies heavily on a committee with the same vision. Securing grants can be challenging, but local arts funding bodies and our engagement with the town have been crucial. Our year-round contributions, such as cafe performances and collaborations with schools, help maintain a strong relationship with the community, ensuring ongoing support.

What has the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival taught you personally and

professionally?

I've learned the importance of bringing people together through music, and watching young people grow through the festival is a privilege. I'm grateful to the volunteers and my family, who have supported the festival. Professionally, I've realised you don't have to reinvent the wheel - staying true to your vision and fostering a sense of joy and connection among your audience is key.

How can people make the most of the festival?

Technology makes it easier than ever. For the best experience and all the latest updates, simply visit the official website at www. dorrigofolkbluegrass.com.au and plan your visit. With just a few clicks, you can explore everything the festival has to offer, from ticket options, camping and event schedules. We look forward to sharing Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival with you all. Thanks Bridget.

Jy HOUSE Beach

On the shores of Je y Beach, Coffs Harbour, overlooking the Solitary Islands, Je y Beach House serves modern Australian cuisine, live music, liberating libations, and family fun.

Soak in the sunshine with a cocktail in hand and revel into the night as the lights grow soft. Jetty Beach House is a celebration of bold flavours, local produce, and dishes prepared with integrity, infused with the spirit of the sea. Poised atop the ocean with panoramic views, every seat is

the best seat in the house. Feast picnic style on the expansive lawns, enjoy the breeze on the sea view deck, or celebrate your next event in style in our coastal dining rooms.

Jetty Beach House is open for lunch Tuesday to Sunday, and for dinner at the weekend. Join us to walk the line from delicate to decadent and everything that falls between.

After early consultation with the trees, we are declaring the official 2024 Jacaranda Season as 18 October through to 10 November.

Get ready to see the Grafton streets fill with their famous purple petals, and this year, drum roll please… Grafton proudly hosts its 90th annual Jacaranda Festival! Hosting the longest floral festival in Australia is no mean feat, and this milestone celebration promises to be bigger, better, and blooming beautiful with a program of events kicking off Friday 25th October for a 10-day lineup of festivities. If you haven't experienced a Jacaranda Festival yet (we don’t know why, but strange things do happen!) then let this monster year be the one you attend!

Take a selfie with Jacaranda Jill, the iconic Kewpie doll that stands proud in Market Square and visit See Park after dark to watch in awe as the trees light up against the night sky as part of the nightly Illuminate event. Yes, that’s right. See Park becomes See in the Dark, as the Jacaranda trees are illuminated for a limited time only. Enjoy food trucks and live music as you get snappy and happy under the purple spotlights. See the Jacaranda trees illuminated from Friday, 18 October until Friday, 10 November. Explore all four corners of the Clarence Valley,

GRAFTON’S RIGHT ON YOUR DOORSTEP!

Jacaranda season

Spring has sprung in the Clarence Valley which can mean only one thing… it’s time for the Gra on Jacarandas to do their thing and step out in their purple coats.

from Glenreagh’s Golden Dog in the region's south to the fishing haven of Iluka in the North. This vast and expansive region offers a range of experiences to fill your adventurer bucket. Enjoy the Yuraygir Coastal walk, kayak your way down the Clarence Canoe & Kayak Trail, or relax in Yamba’s ocean pool to unwind after a big few days of sightseeing.

A short 15-minute drive north from Grafton, Ulmarra is a perfect pit stop for those travelling through the region.

Described as quaint, quiet, and quirky, Ulmarra certainly packs a punch for such a little town, named “The best little town in Australia” by Escape Magazine. Daydream your way down the main street and find yourself amongst real life treasures as you explore the second-hand bookstore, art galleries, antique shops, and handmade craft stores. If getting out on the water is more your thing, enjoy the Clarence Canoe & Kayak Trail, the longest mapped whitewater trail in Australia. Covering more than 195km of the river between Nymboi-Binderay National Park and the township of Copmanhurst, this river trail contains some of the most diverse paddling

conditions found anywhere in the world. Right here on your doorstep!

Prefer the view from beside the water than being on it? No worries! Follow the path of the coastal emu as you enjoy the Yuraygir Coastal Walk. This 65km track takes you from Angourie to Red Rock in multi-day sections. You’ll encounter wildlife and wildflowers as you walk past heathland plains, long sandy beaches, tranquil creeks, lagoons, rocky headlands and even a marine park. How’s that for adventure?

Explore all four corners of the Clarence Valley. This vast and expansive region offers a range of experiences to fill your adventurer bucket.

Find the perfect setting for your own My Clarence Valley moment and don’t forget to tag us on socials so we can follow along @myclarencevalley myclarencevalley.com

A Re f Place Ayatana

Soak up uninterrupted views of the World Heritage escarpment from a 2 person copper bath on the deck.... snuggle by the outdoor fireplace or wander the bush trails through rainforest and koala habitat. Cool off in the pool, chill in the cabana or meander down to the banks of the Bellinger River.

Gourmet Kitchen, BBQ and outdoor dining area, as well as a parent's retreat with private kitchen and bathroom, Ayatana is ideal for an intimate couple's getaway or large family gatherings.

Can you describe the property and its unique features?

Ayatana is a newly renovated 4 bedroom home nestled in 12 acres of rainforest in Glennifer. It is perched beneath the breathtaking Gondwanaland National Park escarpment with a pool, bush trails and river frontage.

The property is designed to accommodate large family gatherings or groups of friends. Upstairs sleeps 7 and downstairs is a fully self-contained apartment which sleeps 4 –perfect for a parent’s retreat or small family featuring its own full bathroom and kitchen facilities.

What inspired the design and decor of your Airbnb property?

Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle is a strongly held value in both our community, and for us personally. When we embarked on the project we made a decision to spend a portion of our budget on new items like high quality mattresses and linen, coffee machines

and kitchen appliances, and to search for bespoke, handmade or upcycled décor wherever we could.

The hardwood timber floors have been reclaimed and lovingly given a second life. All the mirrors in the house are hand-made from old wardrobe doors. The copper splashbacks in the kitchen and outdoor bar are handmade, as are all the barndoors in the house. Furniture destined for landfill has been carefully restored by local craftspeople.

Above all, we wanted to offer guests a chance to sink into the beauty of the landscape – large windows let the mountain views into almost all corners of the house, and we’ve made sure there are lots of areas to take a load off, put up your feet and let the view sink in.

Are there any special amenities or services that guests can enjoy?

Alfresco living is a core joy for us and we think the most special experience the property offers is the chance to hang out in mother nature herself. A large, two person copper bath sits in the corner of the verandah and gives guests the chance to watch a dozen different mountain vistas over the course of the day – from swirling misty mornings to the dazzling pastels of sunset. There’s an outside lounge area, as well as a full dining setting with a large outdoor

fireplace to ensure there’s a chance to enjoy the deck summer and winter. For those ready to take it to the next level, there’s also an outdoor bed with a mozzie net.

How does the location of your property enhance the guest experience?

Ayatana is located in the sweet spot between the total peace and tranquility of the Promised Land, and only a 5 minute drive to scoop up the delights of Bellingen. Just minutes down the road are a handful of truly pristine swimming spots on the Never Never River. A few minutes drive the other way gives guests access to the very best of local markets, organic produce, sourdough bakeries, music and cultural events, and some of the best restaurants in the region.

Set squarely between stunning national parks and pristine beaches, we’re also perfectly placed to act as a base for a wide range of outdoor activities – from bushwalking and surf schools to canoe adventures and ecotours.

What kind of experience do you aim to provide for your guests?

We’re hoping guests experience a genuine chance to slow down, breathe out and move down a gear or two. Life is so hectic for so many of us, and something magical happens when we find ourselves in a place

where our senses and our nervous system can truly breathe out. Waking up to birdsong, and going to sleep with a full vista of stars (thanks to very low light pollution) feels like a luxury we should all have more of!

The opportunity to offer a space for the special things that happen when people take time out from the busyness of life feels like a gi in itself.

How do you ensure that guests feel at home and comfortable during their stay?

As keen travellers ourselves, we’ve long been gathering ideas about what makes a trip away feel seamless. Attention has been given to the extra challenges that can come when traveling with small children, making sure there are essentials like a highchair and kids toys and activities.

We also appreciate that it’s not always possible to completely unplug, so we have been mindful that the internet and all the digital mod cons are on hand.

Accessibility was also an important issue for us – ramps have been installed from the carpark to the deck and the upstairs shower has been designed for wheelchair access. What efforts have you made to make your Airbnb property more eco-friendly?

During our building phase we focused wherever possible on recycled materials. We’ve installed high-grade insulation to bring down energy usage. Water is harvested into multiple water tanks and our planting was designed around bird friendly habitat. Land management is driven by a commitment to protect the declared Koala corridor that runs

through the property.

How does your property connect with the local community?

Bellingen is a community with well-developed connections and an ethos to source and support local resilience and we aim to connect guests with the very best experiences the shire has to offer. As well as being part of the Koala habitat protection zone, the property is well connected and in close communication with neighbourhood networks focused on flood, fire and resilience building.

What should guests know before booking your property?

There’s a local saying about people not being able to visit our shire once – that something magical happens here and they should prepare to come back.

How do you handle guest inquiries and bookings to ensure a smooth experience?

The property is managed by a local hosting superstar! Cass has deep experience in making sure that getting here, making the most of the time here and a truly relaxing time are achieved. Her attention to detail is remarkable and guest feedback is a testament to her level of care.

What do you love most about hosting on Airbnb?

We truly love the chance to share this

pocket of paradise with others and get such a buzz from feedback which tells us that people have had a special time. We’ve hosted some significant moments in people’s lives – important family gatherings, special birthdays, silent retreats and times of deep healing. The opportunity to offer a space for the special things that happen when people take time out from the busyness of life feels like a gift in itself.

Do you have any plans for future renovations or upgrades to the property?

Having finished a full renovation of the home, our next target is set on upgrading our solar to offer full capacity. We’re engaged in land and river care and the ongoing protection of the Koala Corridor as well as exploring drought proofing strategies for guaranteed water supply into the future.

Discuss any potential future projects or ideas.

We’ve hosted a couple of corporate retreats and brainstorming sessions and feel the property offers unique potential to host group visits designed around a specific purpose. Intimate weddings, art and healing workshops all feel like they would fit perfectly into the space and we’re looking to develop those opportunities for the future.

How and where can we book or find out more?

You can book via Airbnb, booking.com & riparide or call directly on 0413 741 390

For over 33 years, Key Community Group has been proudly serving the Coffs Coast, offering a wide range of services. Key is deeply embedded in the community, supporting thousands of people with disabilities through its employment, training, and youth programs.

KEY COMMUNITY GROUP

Now, they are introducing The Grounds on West High, Coffs Harbour’s newest event space, nestled within their beautiful community garden. This versatile venue is designed for gatherings of all sizes, offering a chance to celebrate while giving back to the community.

We spoke with CEO Jodi Wood to learn more about The Grounds on West High and how it’s set to become the go-to venue for local events.

Your new event space is generating quite a buzz! Could you give us a sneak peek of what makes it so special?

We’re really excited about The Grounds

on West High! The space is set within our beautiful community garden, creating a relaxed, natural environment that’s perfect for any type of gathering. The garden is a large, fully self-contained area with private toilets, kitchen, undercover shaded areas and beautiful outdoor lighting. It comfortably holds over 500 guests, and the best part is it is only 500 metres from the centre of Coffs Harbour. It truly feels like a private paradise right in the centre of town. Can you tell us more about the facilities and features that make the space stand out?

Absolutely! The event space is equipped with everything you need for a seamless experience. We offer high-top tables, picnic tables, and plenty of open space for

activities. There’s also enough room for kids to run around, so it’s perfect for familyfriendly events. Guests have the option to BYO alcohol, making it a flexible and cost effective option. We have partnerships with some amazing local vendors such as Offbeat Operations with access to the best musicians on the Coffs Coast and Spare Chef, who provide incredible food options for all types of events. The flexibility of the venue is really what sets it apart - it can be whatever you want it to be.

What kind of events have you hosted so far, and what has the feedback been like?

We’ve already hosted a variety of events, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. From birthday parties and Christmas

celebrations to sporting presentations and corporate functions, our space has been used in so many creative ways. One of the standout events we hosted recently involved food trucks and live music, and it was a huge success. We’ve also had more intimate gatherings like long lunches and a few larger events that included a blow-up nightclub - yes, that’s right! People love

the laid-back yet fully functional environment, and the fact that it’s so customisable really resonates with our guests. The community has embraced the space, and many hosts have told us how much they appreciate that their event supports local causes.

How does hosting an event at your venue benefit the community?

We’re happy to walk potential guests through all the options and help them create the perfect event, whether they want us to handle everything or prefer to do it themselves.

What’s wonderful about renting our space is that it goes beyond just hosting a great event. As a notfor-profit, all the funds raised from renting our event space are reinvested back into our community programs. This means that your event helps support services for people with disabilities, employment initiatives, youth programs, and other vital community services we provide. It’s a unique opportunity to have fun and make a positive impact at the

same time. We like to call it a “party with purpose,” because you’re not just creating memories with friends and family, but you’re also contributing to something much bigger - supporting the Coffs Coast community.

How can someone book the event space or find out more information?

It’s super easy to book! You can visit our website, where we have all the details about the event space, pricing, and availability. Alternatively, you can call or email us directly to discuss your specific needs. We’re happy to walk potential guests through all the options and help them create the perfect event, whether they want us to handle everything or prefer to do it themselves. We’re excited to welcome more people to this amazing space and keep the positive momentum going!

For more details or to book your next event, visit www.keycommunitygroup.com.au, call (02) 6691 9999, or email enquiries@keycommunitygroup.com.au

ROCK YOU CHMCC We W

HDIRECTOR

GREG WILSON JNR

ASSISTANT DIRECTOR

REBECCA NICHOLSON

i Greg and Rebecca. CHMCC’s next big production is We Will Rock You, can you give us a bit of a run down on the concept for this production?

The show concept is one where the story is set exactly 300 years in the future in a vaguely Orwellian world. Earth has been renamed as "IPlanet" and is controlled by the Globalsoft Corporation. On IPlanet, mainstream commercial conformity reigns, in which Ga Ga Kids watch the same movies, listen to computer-generated music, wear the same clothes and hold the same thoughts and opinions. Musical instruments are forbidden, and rock music is unknown. Globalsoft is headed by Killer Queen and also formed is a rebel faction, who believe there is a key to bring back real music to iPlanet.

The concept we had was one that is a little darker from the majority that you can view on Youtube or other streaming services. We didn’t want to have the bright colours or the big flashy lighting design, we just wanted to stay true to a dystopian vibe for the production. You are quite limited with space at the Jetty Memorial Theatre, so you have to think hard about how you can best picture or describe the story within the space.

Can you tell us a little about the cast and what the audition process is like?

The audition process for this production was very exciting and daunting at the same time. We wanted to have a large audition panel so we could push people outside of their comfort zones and see how they auditioned/ performed in front of a decent sized panel.

Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company are busy rehearsing their latest production - “We Will Rock You” premiering in November at the Je y Memorial Theatre. We catch up with Greg Wilson Jnr and Rebecca Nicholson about what to expect from this amazing production.

We were hoping that we would get an enthusiastic response when the show was announced, and we were right. The response was quite overwhelming really. The quality of the auditionees was very high and in the end, we were actually splitting hairs to cast the production. We introduced a dance component into the audition process for this production so we could test the movement ability of the auditionees. We always wanted to dual cast the principal roles for this production just so we didn’t have any outside forces affecting any of the show’s run. The cast are amazing. They are all working really hard during the rehearsal process and have all embraced the vision and the processes we have implemented. The cast are led by an experienced and super talented core principle group which has lifted the level of involvement and enthusiasm right throughout the ensemble cast members.

own flavour and magic touches to these productions. The vocals are a massive part of the production, so initially we wanted to work on all of the vocals prior to introducing any type of acting or choreography. As we layered all the vocal parts, we slowly introduced other components.

What can audiences expect from this show?

So much goes into these productions, what are some of the roles and processes that go on behind the scenes? All of the behind the scenes roles contribute immensely to putting all the pieces of the puzzle together. There are quite a few involved in this production team from Vocal coach (Kate Freeman), Musical Director (Rachel Crismale) and all band members, Choreographer (Tegan Haley), Costume Designer (Rebecca Riches), Lighting Designer (Finn Appleton), Lighting Technician (Craig Golding), Production Manager (Annamarie Cohen), Stage Manager (Dee Tune). Not to mention all of the CHMCC committee and others that help with set building, painting sets, backstage crew that will be involved and also all the administration-type roles that we love to share around.

Greg - The audience can expect a high energy, very funny and emotional show with all of their favourite Queen tunes thrown in. What more could you ask for a memorable and exciting night out?

What have been some elements of putting this show together that you guys have found particularly exciting or rewarding?

So, as you can tell there are quite a lot of people that are involved and apply their

their roles and witnessing their growth throughout this journey. It's been a source of immense pride to watch them evolve and shine.

Queen’s music is both iconic and unique, how are you feeling about representing their songs in this musical? You must all be having some fun with this!

e cast are led by an experienced and super talented core principle group which has li ed the level of involvement and enthusiasm right throughout the ensemble cast members.

Greg - For me it is watching people grow into their roles and just seeing the cast smiling and having fun along the way. Seeing those that are new to the theatre world also coming out of their shell and embracing the performing arts world.

Bec - Being part of this production has been incredibly rewarding in so many ways. I have a deep passion for teaching children in the performing arts, and it's been an absolute privilege to witness the growth of our younger cast members. Whether they're new to theatre or more experienced, seeing them develop, step out of their comfort zones, and flourish has been a joy. I also feel honoured to work alongside some of the most talented performers in town, helping them explore

Bec - Representing Queen's songs is stressful, to say the least. These are some of the most iconic songs ever written, and ensuring we honour both the music and its authenticity while bringing our own vision to the stage has been daunting. It's imperative to stay true to the original music, as audiences will expect that. We must respect this and ensure we deliver an epic performance of every song, each showvocally, visually, emotionally, and authentically. I am confident the cast will absolutely do this justice.

When and where can we catch this exciting production?

The show is on at the Jetty Memorial Theatre and will run from Friday the 1st – Sunday the 24th of November.

Where can we find out more info or get tickets?

You can go to JMT web page www. jettytheatre.com/we-will-rock-you/

Or you can email CHMCC info@ coffsharbourmcc.com if you require any further information that you cannot find on the JMT website.

Celebration

THE TABLE

ELEVATE YOUR EVENT WITH THE CELEBRATION TABLE

The Celebration Table specialises in providing elegant tableware for all types of events, from weddings to intimate gatherings. Our carefully curated selection of plates, glassware, cutlery, and accessories adds that special touch to your occasion. Whether you choose delivery or selfcollection, we make it easy to bring your vision to life.

Raised in Coffs Harbour, I spent 10 years in Sydney working as a beauty therapist before returning to my hometown to raise my family. My passion for entertaining, combined with a

love for the extra details that make events extraordinary, inspired me to create The Celebration Table. It all began when a friend in the local event industry highlighted the need for a tableware hire service in our area. Today, I’m proud to help make your celebrations unforgettable with stunning table settings tailored to your event. Let us elevate your next occasion with timeless elegance!

WeddinWeddinWeddin

Niki

Smith

Niki Smith is one of the committee members and teachers at Coffs Latin Rhythms, a not-for-profit organisation offering all sorts of Latin dance classes to the Coffs Coast community. She is passionate about dance and fitness and sharing that passion with her students and those around her.

Hi Niki. Can you share a bit about your introduction to dance and what made you fall in love with it?

I always loved dancing. It started as a young child, making up dance routines to songs with brothers and friends and performing them in front of my parents. I dove deeper into the world of dance when I joined Zumba classes in my country of birth, Germany, when I was around 16. This was my first introduction to Latin dance and was a great way to learn dance moves and stay fit at the same time. I’m now a Zumba instructor myself, spreading my love and passion for fitness and dance with others. In 2013 I got my qualification as a hip-hop instructor and started a dance school for kids of all styles including hip-hop, street dance, Zumba & Clip dance. It is a great pleasure to see kids develop confidence in themselves, see them grow, find their style, and realise that it gets easier every time they repeat the steps. In

2018 I started a trip to travel the world and met my now husband in Australia where I stayed and continued my dance journey.

What has your dance journey been like since that time and how did you find out about Salsa?

It is a great fun exercise without even noticing how much you move and engage your core. It is also a dance that is well-known internationally and can be done anywhere around the world.

In 2020 I tried Salsa dancing with Coffs Latin Rhythms and instantly fell in love with it. Quickly I picked up the steps, beat, and principles and realised how much I love to learn about different dance styles. I moved from beginners to improvers, to the advanced classes and started as an assistant teacher for Coffs Latin Rhythms.

You are now part of the committee which runs Coffs Latin Rhythms, teaching Salsa and other Latin dance. What do you enjoy most about sharing Salsa with

the community and teaching others to dance?

I love the lively Latin music. Salsa can be quick or slow, hot, spicy, fun as well as playful. It was the first time I tried a partner dance. The connection and communication between two dancers (Lead and Follow) is such an amazing experience. Salsa and all other Latin dances like Bachata, Tango and Cha-Cha are the best places to find family, passion, and friends. It feels like therapy to me. That hour of just listening to the music, feeling the beat, moving my body, and switching off my brain. It is a great fun exercise without even noticing how much you move and engage your core. It is also a dance that is well-known internationally and can be done anywhere around the world. I love to teach the beginner class, introduce people to the world of Latin

COFFS LATIN

RHYTHMS

partner dance, and see their skills and confidence grow each week.

Can you tell us a bit about the classes available? Who are classes open to, can anyone join in or what kind of experience do you need to have?

We just started having a social dance party every 2nd Sunday of the month at the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club, which has been a great success. Come and see for yourself.

You just pick the class you would like to try, give us a call, and come in for a trial. You can choose between Salsa, Bachata, or Tango. All our classes are held at the Racecourse. On Mondays Codie and I teach absolute beginners from 6-7pm (no experience needed). This class is followed by Pete and I teaching beginners plus/improvers and Salsa Rueda (Rueda de casino), where you apply your learned moves by dancing in a big circle with rotating partners. On Tuesdays, Pete teaches Bachata classes for beginners from 6-7 pm (no experience needed) followed by Tango beginner-advanced from 7-8 pm with Lisa. On Thursdays, Pete teaches Bachata open level from 6-7 pm and Salsa for intermediate to advanced Level. We just started having a social dance party every 2nd Sunday of the month at the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club, which has been a great success. Come and see for yourself. The dance community and opportunities for social

There are a couple of other teachers that you work with, can you tell us a bit about them?

Coffs Latin Rhythms is a not-for-profit organisation in Coffs and has run for over 20 years now. It is managed by a passionate committee of people who love to share their passion for dance. The Monday beginner classes I teach with Codie, who is passionate about dance and joined the committee last year to teach with us. Pete teaches most of our classes with over 24 years of experience. He teaches Cuban and Dominican Salsa, Bachata as well as Rueda. He is a walking dance dictionary and it's a great pleasure working and learning with him. Lisa, who has been with the club for 5 years, teaches Tango classes and is usually accompanied by Nicholas, who travels around the world soaking up more Tango dance skills. It's a fun, informative class with plenty of opportunities for social tango dancing. And then there is Corrie Wade who has been teaching for CLR for many years. He is experienced in over 30 different dance styles and teaches most of our workshops, which happen every 2 months in many different dance styles like rock ‘n’ roll, West coast swing, Cha-cha, Salsa choreographies, Spins

and turns, and so on.

What are you doing when you’re not teaching Salsa dancing?

I do a bit of everything. I teach Zumba classes in gyms: Coffs Zumba and Fitness with Niki. I also run a bookkeeping business, Niki's Bookkeeping and Admin Coffs Harbour, where I help and support local businesses to stay up to date with their bookkeeping and admin needs. For the past 4 years, I’ve been making a garlic sauce called Garlic Guys and selling it to many whole foods shops, butchers, and independent grocers in Coffs as well as up and down the coast. If I’m not working, you’ll find me spending time with my family or outdoors with our dog enjoying the beauty of Coffs Harbour.

Where can we find out more or get in touch?

You can find out more information on our homepage (https://www.coffslatinrhythms. org/) or on our Facebook page (Coffs Latin Rhythms). We post about our upcoming events, classes and keep you updated with photos and videos of steps we learned. You can also send an email to latinrhythmscoffs@ gmail.com if you would like to be added to our newsletter to stay up-to-date. Thank you so much for letting me introduce Coffs Latin Rhythms.

Thanks Niki

dances in Coffs are growing fast.

Jurassic Creatures

GEORGIE FOGARTY

If you’re someone who grew up fascinated by dinosaurs or have kids who can’t get enough of these incredible prehistoric creatures, then the Jurassic Creatures experience might just be the perfect day out, and will open to visitors in Coffs Harbour from November 9th-24th

Hi Georgie, can you give us an overview of what the Jurassic Creatures experience is?

Jurassic Creatures is a live animatronic exhibition of dinosaurs that’s packed with fun activities for children. The dinosaurs are the main stars of the show, but we also have a range of interactive activities, from jumping castles to crafts, that engage kids in all sorts of ways. We try to make sure it’s an experience that brings dinosaurs to life in an exciting and educational way, while also giving kids plenty of hands-on fun. There’s mini-golf, a ball pit, and fossil cracking for those who want to step into the shoes of a palaeontologist. It's a whole experience designed to spark joy and curiosity.

What is your role with Jurassic Creatures? When did you become involved with this event, and what sparked your interest in dinosaurs? I'm the coordinator of the event, so I handle

the logistics of touring, setting up the exhibit, and making sure everything runs smoothly. My journey with Jurassic Creatures started when my son, who absolutely loves dinosaurs, got me hooked on them too. His enthusiasm for these ancient creatures is really what sparked my interest, and when I got the chance to be part of something like this, I jumped at it. Seeing the joy on kids' faces when they walk through the exhibit is something that never gets old. Who is this experience designed for? Is it suitable for everyone?

this universal appeal—whether you’re five years old or fifty. That said, the activities and setup are designed with younger audiences in mind. But truly, if you’re a dinosaur fan, there’s something magical about standing next to a life-sized T-Rex or Brachiosaurus, even as an adult.

The excitement is always fresh, and we get to reach different communities, often in places where experiences like this don’t come around very often.

While it's primarily aimed at children, the exhibit is perfect for anyone who loves dinosaurs, no matter their age. We see a lot of parents and even grandparents who get just as excited as the kids. Dinosaurs have

What are your favourite aspects of being part of this event?

I really love travelling and bringing dinosaurs to people all over Australia. We tour from city to city, so it’s not like we’re in one place all the time. The excitement is always fresh, and we get to reach different communities, often in places where experiences like this don’t come around very often. There’s something so rewarding about knowing you’re giving kids and families a day they’ll remember

for a long time. Plus, hearing the "wow" as kids walk through the exhibit is priceless.

What are some of the included activities we might expect?

One of the more popular activities is fossil cracking, where kids can pretend to be palaeontologists and dig for fossils.

Besides the incredible dinosaurs, we have a ton of fun activities for kids. There are jumping castles, a massive ball pit, and minigolf, so there's something for every kind of energy level. We also have a craft zone where kids can make dinosaur-related crafts to take home. One of the more popular activities is fossil cracking, where kids can pretend to be palaeontologists and dig for fossils. It’s all designed to be really hands-on and engaging, so kids are constantly learning and exploring in a fun way.

Do you have a favourite dinosaur?

What are the most popular dinos in the exhibition?

Oh, I have to go with the T-Rex! I just love

those little arms—there's something endearing about such a massive creature with these tiny little appendages. The T-Rex is definitely a fan favourite too; it's such an iconic dinosaur that people instantly recognize. The Brachiosaurus, or “Long Neck,” as many kids call it, is also a big hit. There's something majestic about these giants, and they really capture the imagination. We have a mix of dinosaurs in the exhibit, from the terrifying to the more gentle giants, so everyone gets to see their favourites.

What’s involved in touring with this exhibit? Is there a big team involved?

Touring is a big part of the operation, and while we don’t have a huge team, it’s definitely a dedicated one. Setting up the exhibit is a big task - we’re essentially building a temporary home for dinosaurs wherever we go. It takes about five days to set up the marquee, which is the structure that houses the dinosaurs. Then we add all the extra activities around it. The dinosaurs themselves are animatronic, so there’s a bit of tech that goes into getting them all operational, making sure they move and roar just right. It’s a lot of work, but we have a

close-knit team that makes it happen. We’re always on the lookout for people who want to join us and help bring dinosaurs to life for audiences all over Australia.

Where can we find out more, get in touch, or get tickets?

You can always call us directly at 0422 840 004 if you have any questions, or you can visit our website at www.jurassiccreatures. com.au. We’ve got all the information you’ll need there - tour dates, ticket pricing, and FAQs. We’re constantly updating it with new locations and dates as we tour the country, so be sure to check in often to see when we’ll be in your area!

Thanks Georgie.

We asked sta members of Forestry Corporation of NSW to share their favourite NSW State Forests places to visit. Why? Because who knows be er than those who look a er the forest and maintain these special places.

Ste Fore SECRETS

“Gumgali Track in Orara East State Forest doesn’t get as much attention as it deserves and the view is delightful! But my absolute favourite spot is Mobong Falls Track in Wild Cattle Creek State Forest. It’s a great bushwalk beside Mobong Creek, with a beautiful little waterfall and abundant birdlife. You can also enjoy a picnic (there are a couple of tables) or a cheeky little swim.”

- Renee, Forestry Worker

“Coopernook State Forest is one of those places that slowly grows on you with repeated visits. There is so much history there, and I understand why people refer to it as such a peaceful spot. It really is!”

- Leah, Partnerships Leader

“Tirrill Creek in Bulga State Forest. Subtropical rainforest can be found in spots along the creek line, as well as scenic rockpools for splashing your feet in. Pretty special.”

- Mark, Ecologist

“Once a year, we travel with a few other families and stay at Moonan Cottage in the small town of Moonan Brook at the western base of the Barrington Tops. We take day trips to ‘the Tops’ and our must stop places always include Moonan Outlook, with views for days to the south and west and brilliant sunsets. It’s just magic”

- Louise, Manager Tourism & Partnerships

“My favourite site is around Sealy Lookout in Orara East State Forest near Coffs Harbour. It’s not too remote, easy to get to and there’s some great lookouts and walks in unique areas.”

- Owen, Forestry Worker

“I love a bit of fishing, so Koondrook and Perricoota State Forests adjacent to the Murray River down on the Victorian border are always on my list. Great spots for fishing for native fish (Murray Cod and Yellow belly) as well as boating and kayaking. Bermagui State Forest on the NSW South Coast is also excellent for fishing and camping, while Currowan State Forest near Batemans Bay has good bass fishing and canoeing.”

- Rob, Partnerships Leader

“Guulabaa – Place of Koala in Cowarra State Forest between Wauchope and Port Macquarie. It’s so close to the Pacific Highway but still home to a beautiful native forest. It’s also home to WildNets, The Big Koala (part of the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail) and the soon-to-be-open Wild Koala Breeding Facility managed by Port Macquarie Koala Hospital/Koala Conservation Australia. With picnic facilities and walking trails in development, and Bunyah Café coming soon too (thanks to Bunyah Local Aboriginal Land Council), this tourism precinct is a must-stop for any visitors to the Mid North Coast.”

- Kathy, Senior Manager Country & Community

COAST

DO YOU KNOW AN INCREDIBLE WOMAN to nominate for the International Women’s Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year 2025 Award? This award will recognise outstanding women in the Coffs Coast region who demonstrate innovation, commitment, and a significant contribution to empowering members of the local community.

The International Women's Day (IWD) - Coffs Coast - Woman of the Year Award, an initiative of the IWD Planning Committee in 2015, was set up to acknowledge the positive contribution of women in the region of the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire. It aims to recognise nominees who are involved in voluntary, community, business or professional work, and who, within that arena, would be displaying vision and initiative over and beyond their normal role.

Past award winners include Christina Monneron (2015), Charlotte Young (2016), Jane Tavener (2017), Aunty Bea Ballangarry (2018), Shelley Lowe (2019), Lily Isobella (2020), Emma Aspen (2021), Jade Naidu (2022), Doris Cowan (2023) and Falak Othman (2024).

Woman of e YearAWARD 2025 COFFS

NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

In 2018 a Runner Up Award was introduced, won by Kyla Holley (2018), Kamla RuthnamWebb (2019) Auntie Kerrie Burnet (2020), Lisa Nichols and Angelika Aulerich (2021), Jodie Wood (2022), Yvonne Richards (2023) and Heather Duncan (2024).

Nominations are now being called for the 2025 IWD Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award, to be announced at the IWD Breakfast on Friday 7th March 2025. The three major women's groups in Coffs Harbour: the Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour Inc., Business and Professional Women (BPW) of Coffs Coast and the Coffs Coast Business Women's Network Inc. (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 IWD Woman of the Year Award.

Criteria

The International Women's Day Coffs Coast Woman of the Year Award 2025 will honour a woman who:

• Makes a significant contribution in enhancing and improving either the economic, cultural and/or social well-being of citizens within the local community.

• Uses vision and initiative over and beyond their normal role to pursue a goal/cause that will make a difference and have a positive impact on the local community.

• Is actively engaged with the local community in either a voluntary, community, business or professional capacity.

• Is a resident of the Coffs Coast (Coffs Harbour Local Government Area and Bellingen Shire).

There will be two awards consisting of an inscribed trophy and publicity for both women and their cause. The major award winner will receive a cash prize of $1,500, co-sponsored by The Physio Movement (TPM) and the Hoey Moey. The runner up will receive a cash prize of $1,000, sponsored by One Agency Coffs Harbour. Both cash awards allow the women to continue to advance their objectives.

All finalists will be recognised and acknowledged for their own achievements. Nomination Forms are now available by email from woy2025@gmail.com.au or from the International Women’s Day Coffs Coast website at iwdcoffscoast.org.au

Closing date is 18 November 2024.

Biba Honnet Centre Neighbourhood

NORTH COAST SETTLEMENT SERVICE

Can you give us an overview of your service? Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre is the place to go when you don’t know where to go. We are a welcoming place where services, supports and activities are community driven and delivered to build the capacity of people to live a life they value. A team of about 40 dedicated volunteers support our operations which include providing information, referrals and advocacy, supporting a homework learning club, providing free access to counselling, tax help, forms, resume writing, legal advice, digital supports and help with essential supports such as food, nappies and shelter items for people experiencing homelessness. We support many groups and activities including Voice Up, a support group for survivors of child abuse, Mentors for Men and the Coffs Coast Community Drug Action Team. We have a range of rooms available to hire at low cost that are used regularly by other services providing outreach and groups that meet for social connection and fun. Who is your service available

to? We are available to all community members who need assistance or support. We see different age groups, cultural backgrounds and people with different life experiences. We also welcome many people that would like to volunteer or offer some donations to support the work we do.

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service?

In a nutshell, we aim to transform lives. It might sound ambitious but we actually see the difference we can make in someone’s life every day. That people can come to a Neighbourhood Centre for lots of different things reduces the stigma for people who want to reach out and share their challenges. Being heard in a safe and supportive environment can make a huge difference.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? We are centrally situated along with lots of other wonderful community services in the Community Village at 22 Earl Street. Call in and see us any week day from 9am to 4pm, visit our Facebook page, website or call us on 6648 3694.

Can you give us an overview of your service? We are a St. Vincent de Paul Society NSW service funded by the Dept. Home Affairs & the Dept. Social Services to assist humanitarian entrants and other vulnerable migrants to settle in Coffs Harbour. We provide case work and programs for new arrivals that help build skills, knowledge and connections that will allow them to become independent in the local community as quickly as possible. Ideally, we want people confidently speaking English, understanding local systems and laws, joining in social activities, and participating in the workforce. Who is your service available to? Most of our clients come to us through referrals from the Humanitarian Settlement Program and are therefore people from a refugee background, but we also see a lot of walk-ins who have arrived in Coffs Harbour and don’t know where else to go. They get directed to us by community members and other service providers because we are a Vinnies service working with multicultural communities, and

because we have onsite bi-lingual workers and we work with interpreters.

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? A lot of what we do is problem-solving. People come in with all sorts of queries from immigration questions from family members back in their home countries to practical tasks about how to put together furniture!

Long-term we want the people who use our service to have all the tools they need to live healthy, productive lives in our region. In the short-term we hope they will think of us as a sort of trusted figure who can show them the ropes in this safe new country and walk gently alongside them as they heal from the trauma of war, conflict, or persecution. Where can we find out more or get in touch? You are welcome to contact us via chb.reception@ vinnies.org.au or 02 5612 1370. For general information about refugees go to www. refugeecouncil.org.au/statistics

Coffs Community Village

COFFS HARBOUR

Cheryl D Pzo Connor Jenkinson

COFFS HARBOUR DISTRICT FAMILY HISTORY SOCIETY COAST & COUNTRY PRIMARY CARE

Can you give us an overview of your service? Founded in 1984, Coffs Harbour District Family History Society Inc. continues to assist our members and visitors to trace their family history.

Our volunteer monitors help newcomers to family history begin their journey, as well as offering advice to the more experienced researcher regarding new material that has recently become available, either in printed form or online. This information helps to create a broader picture of how our ancestors lived.

Anyone considering starting their family history should copy any certificates that they may have and bring these with them when visiting our rooms. These give vital clues and are a great starting point for any family history research. A notebook is also very handy when starting out, and as you accumulate more information, a folder is also a good idea for storing the documents that you might find. There are various methods for the storage of information

pertaining to each individual and our monitors can provide advice in this area as well.

We subscribe to various websites, and these include Ancestry.com, FindMyPast, British Newspaper Archive, The Genealogist and the Biographical Database of Australia, all of which assist with online research. Our library contains several extensively researched family histories as well as a wide variety of Australian and overseas texts.

Monthly workshops are held on the 4th Saturday from February to November and cover a wide range of topics. Workshops are held in the Community Village, commencing at 1.30 pm. We also hold two seminars a year, in May and October. These are an all-day affair, from 10.00am until 4.00pm. Our forthcoming Seminar on Saturday 26th October is about Irish Research, with Richard Reid from Canberra as our guest speaker.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? For further information contact our rooms on 6648 3605 or via email at coffsgenie@gmail.com.

Can you give us an overview of your service? We are dedicated to delivering compassionate and effective support to individuals navigating the NDIS. As a trusted not-forprofit provider with extensive experience, we place our clients’ needs and aspirations at the centre of all that we do.

We offer free NDIS application help, guiding you through the process to ensure all required steps and evidence are in place. Our personalised support coordination services maximise your NDIS plan, helping you connect with the right services and achieve your goals.

We provide psychosocial recovery coaches who offer mental health support, empowering individuals with psychosocial disabilities to take control of their recovery journey.

Plan management simplifies your NDIS funds, handling provider payments and offering financial transparency.

Our Home & Community Supports and Group Activities promote independence, social connection, and skill development. We also

offer therapeutic supports, including art therapy and telehealth services for psychology, to enhance overall well-being. Who is your service available to? The service supports those with an NDIS plan. We support participants aged 16 – 65 living on the Mid North Coast.

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? We aim to significantly improve community members well-being by promoting mental and physical health, independence, and social inclusion. We hope to empower individuals through personalised care, skill development, and daily living support, while reducing social isolation with group activities and support networks. Our holistic approach addresses both mental and physical needs, simplifies access to services, and supports long-term improvements in quality of life, creating a more inclusive and supportive community. Where can we find out more or get in touch? To make a referral, please contact us at (02) 4365 2294 and ask to speak with NDIS - Joanne Murphy. Alternatively, contact us via our website.

Pete’s Place

Can you give us an overview of your service?

Pete’s Place Homelessness

Hub is a St Vincent de Paul run support service for people experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. We provide essential items including food, laundry and shower facilities, blankets and tents. Pete’s Place has qualified staff who provide support, casework and referrals to appropriate services; recognising that disadvantaged and vulnerable populations have fewer opportunities to participate equally in our community.

Having no safe place to rest, keep belongings and/ or organise life, takes a huge toll on people’s physical, mental and emotional health.

Who is your service available to? People who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service?

Pete’s Place is a safe and inclusive space for our community’s most vulnerable people.

Having no safe place to rest, keep belongings and/or organise

life, takes a huge toll on people’s physical, mental and emotional health. Many people are living with illness and chronic health issues with little or no access to medical care; they are often impacted by PTSD, domestic and family violence and financial disadvantage. People experiencing homelessness die on average 3 decades younger than standard life expectancy. These are avoidable deaths of despair. We provide wraparound supports including onsite access to specialist housing services, medical and mental health services, Centrelink, Service NSW, Disability Advocacy and we walk with people on their journeys.

People often say we’re like a family. Essentially, we are a place of community and connection where birthdays are celebrated, life events and stories are shared, people are seen, heard and valued.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? Gai Newman gai.newman@vinnies.org.au phone 0438 931 201

CMeals on Wheels

an you give us an overview of your service? Coffs Coast Meals on Wheels is for people living on the Coffs Coast who require a nutritious meal delivered to their home. Our operations run through our Coffs Harbour office, located within the Community Village and our Woolgoolga office, located at 8 Boundary Street. We offer a range of 80 meal choices.

Our service delivers meals across an area of Sawtell, Bonville, Coffs Harbour, Moonee, Woolgoolga, Red Rock and everywhere in between.

Our meals are delivered frozen to you and ordering meals can be done over the phone or online. We can set up a weekly or fortnightly delivery. We still offer a hot meal for those requiring this service. Although we deliver on a daily, weekly or fortnightly basis to your door, you are most welcome to call into our office and collect meals.

Who is your service available to? Our services are predominately for people over 65

and we encourage you to contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to obtain a meal referral code. Not only does this provide access to our service, we can also link you into the Chill n Chat Café accessing very reasonably priced meals located within a relaxed surround in the heart of Coffs Harbour.

We provide nutritious meals to older people, people with a disability, and carers. They can purchase meals at a subsidised price under the Commonwealth Home Support Program with a meal referral code or through their Home Care Package or NDIS funding.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? Coffs Coast Meals on Wheels does not have a waiting list and we can be contacted on 02 6648 3600 (Coffs) opening hours 8:30am –3:30pm Monday to Friday or 02 6654 2870 (Woolgoolga) opening hours are 8:30am – 2:30pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Email: manager@chmow.org.au mealsonwheelscoffscoast.org.au

Leigh Wson

Leigh recently started working at the Neighbourhood Centre, coordinating the new Gambling Harm Program

GAMBLING HARM PROGRAM

Can you give us an overview of your service?

The Gambling Harm Program is a new service based at the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, which aims to increase local awareness on the impacts of gambling harm.  The program provides information and support to people who are worried about their own gambling habits or those of a friend or family member. This includes:

• a support group for people affected by gambling harm

• financial literacy and budgeting workshops

• gambling harm information sessions

• referrals to GambleAware specialist counselling services

• links to other relevant community support.

Who is your service available to? Gambling is part of many people’s lives and can affect everyone differently. Our service is available to anyone who is worried about their own

gambling habits or those of a friend or family member.

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? We want to raise awareness in Coffs about the potential harms that may arise from risky gambling, such as:

• financial difficulties

• relationship problems

• health issues

• emotional or psychological stress

• issues with work or study

• cultural stresses

• criminal activity.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? If you have concerns about your own gambling activities, or are worried about a family member or friend, pop in to the Neighbourhood Centre and ask how we can help. If you prefer, you can call us on (02) 6648 3694 or email info@ chnc.com.au

The Neighbourhood Centre is receiving funding through the Community Benefit Payment Scheme and is using it to deliver the Gambling Harm Program.

Melody Pascoe

MID NORTH COAST FINANCIAL COUNSELLING SERVICE

Can you give us an overview of your service? We provide a free and non judgemental, independent service that assists people with their financial issues. We work with the client to develop a money plan/budget and give options around this. We also inform clients of the payment options and consequences around any debts they may have. We can advocate or negotiate on the client’s behalf and if not able to help, will provide referrals to any other services needed.

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? We hope to relieve people of their financial stress and this relief, to positively impact other areas of their lives such as improving mental health and relationships.

We hope to relieve people of their financial stress, and this relief positively impacting on other areas of their lives...

Emotional support is given as we walk alongside the client to achieve positive outcomes. Who is your service available to? Those living on the Mid North Coast of NSW from Coffs Harbour down to Tuncurry. We assist anyone and everyone who would like financial information and support, particularly the most vulnerable.

Financial counselling can teach important and useful life skills with a focus on financial management skills such as how to budget and to manage any other aspects of their financial situation. We hope to be able to encourage and teach community members how to advocate for themselves in the future and for them to have more confidence and feel they can participate more in their communities

Where can we find out more or get in touch? For the Coffs Harbour area we have 2 financial counsellors working Monday to Thursday based at the Coffs Community Hub and people can ring the number below to make a booking 1300 662 540.

CMary Money Sharen

an you give us an overview of your service? Waratah Respite Services has a long and proud history of delivering flexible respite options for older people, those living with cognitive decline, disabilities, and their carers living on the Coffs Coast and surrounds. Our unique service model offers centre based respite, social support groups and overnight respite in cottage style accommodation.

Day programs are delivered in Coffs Harbour at the Community Village Monday to Friday 8:30am to 3pm, and Woolgoolga Community Village Hall, 8 Boundary Street, Woolgoolga on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 3pm.

An individual plan is developed with each attendee to ensure care needs are met, and activities are organised to enhance wellbeing and encourage independence.

An example of our day activities includes: bus trips and lunch outings, singalongs, musical entertainment, exercises, brain teasers, bingo, celebration of cultural and other events, gardening, art and crafts and much more. Extended times can be

arranged on request. What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service?

- Deliver person centred overnight respite care to our most vulnerable ageing community.

- Provide valuable respite for primary caregivers enabling the carer to take a much-needed break.

- Support focus on reducing the level of carer stress for both the carer and family.

- Maintain a shared goal focusing on strengthening and improving relationships between the carer, client and service delivery supporting independence living.

- Improve social interactions and engagement contributing to improved health and wellbeing.

- Avoid premature placement in residential aged care.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? Waratah Centre: Community Village, 22 Earl St, Coffs Harbour, NSW, 2450

Phone (02) 6648 3610

Fax (02) 9182 7586

E admin@waratahrespite.com.au

W waratahrespite.org

facebook.com/waratahrespitecoffs

Cto provide access to volunteering for those who have time on their hands and want to give back to their community.

an you give us an overview of your service? Coffs Coast Volunteering has been operating for over 15 years as a go to linkage service to connect volunteers on the Coffs Coast with volunteer involving organisations. Coffs Coast Volunteering has a diverse range of member organisations that we are proud to work with, delivering tailored volunteer matching and recruitment. Who is your service available to? Our service is available to all members of the community who are looking to be involved in their community to improve their confidence, gain work experience or to gain a reference to gain employment What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? Coffs Coast Volunteering is able to help clients with Centrelink mutual obligation requirements as well as providing an avenue for those in the community experiencing loneliness or isolation to reconnect. Coffs Coast Volunteering is also an important service to provide access to volunteering for those who have time on their hands and want to give back to their community. The team works closely with all new volunteers to ensure they are matched in a role that fits them and that they have an interest in.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? Coffs Coast Volunteering office is located in Coffs Community Village on Earl Street. Our offices are located in the main building, and our friendly team of volunteer receptionists are there to help Tuesdays – Thursdays  between 9am-2pm. Phone our office on 6648 3660 or email volunteer.reception@chnc. com.au for more information.

WARATAH RESPITE SERVICES

COFFS COAST VOLUNTEERING

Phikp

Can you give us an overview of your service? The Cavanbah Centre is a City of Coffs Harbour community facility located right in the heart of the Coffs Harbour CBD. The centre can accommodate functions and events of up to 200 people. All spaces are fully accessible and feature audio-visual equipment, air-conditioning, kitchenettes, interactive projectors and WiFi.

Spaces available to book include:

Cavanbah Hall – a 15m x 15m space with polished wooden floors and a stage (200-person capacity).

Cavanbah Room A & B - two smaller carpeted rooms to the rear of the centre that overlook the beautiful gardens, and which can be opened to become one larger room with access to the sunsoaked deck (25-person capacity).

The Seminar Hut - a standalone mudbrick hut that is secluded, peaceful and surrounded by greenery, making it the ideal space for small meetings, training courses or workshops (20 person capacity).

Community Village meeting rooms - in the heart of the Community Village, these two meeting rooms

Lesley Gordon Cavanbah The Centre

are carpeted and face out on to the village green area (20-30 person capacity).

Who is your service available to? Anyone can book a space at the Cavanbah Centre! Whether it’s for a meeting, workshop, training session, private function, celebration, screening, performance, hobby group, yoga class or book club - the possibilities are endless!

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? Having a variety of affordable, accessible and attractive spaces where groups of people can come together to learn, engage, collaborate and celebrate is vital for a strong and cohesive community. We love seeing the community using these spaces to connect with their neighbours, colleagues and friends.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? You can easily make a booking online at coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au. Alternatively, to speak to someone about your event requirements, call 6648 3690 or send an email to community.village@chcc.nsw. gov.au.

Can you give us an overview of your service? The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) supports volunteer visits to provide friendship and companionship to older people. The program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care. There are around 140 community organisations (auspices) funded to recruit and support volunteers to visit older people, Volunteering Coffs Harbour Inc, located at the Community Village, within the Coffs Harbour Neighbourhood Centre, is the community organisation responsible for this program in Coffs Harbour.

Becoming an aged care volunteer visitor can be a rewarding and life changing experience. You can make a friend, share ideas and stories and help someone who might be feeling isolated or lonely. Volunteers usually visit for one hour once a week at a time that suits you and the person receiving aged care services. Volunteers can visit the older person in their own home, their aged care home or at a public venue. Volunteers from all

social and cultural backgrounds are encouraged to join the program.

What impact do you hope to have on the community members who use your service? Recipients have regular, positive visits to look forward to, they feel valued and active members of the community. The visits bring joy to their lives and ensures their twilight years are enhanced by wonderful friendships and feeling appreciated. The program is of incredible value to volunteers too. Many volunteers do not have contact with older people because of distance, older people passing away or various other reasons. The connection with an older person also brings joy to the lives of the volunteers where volunteers are provided with a new dimension of experience in their lives. Volunteering provides a sense of satisfaction of giving of their time to enhance the life of another person.

Where can we find out more or get in touch? If you are interested, we can help you start the application process and you will be supported along the way, Contact: Lesley Gordon 6648 3662 or Email: acvvs@chnc.com.au

CITY OF COFFS HARBOUR

VOLUNTEERING COFFS HARBOUR INC, AGED CARE VOLUNTEER VISITORS SCHEME

T H A N K Y O U C O F F S H A R B O U R ! THANKYOUCOFFSHARBOUR!

Onthe10thofSeptember,morethan100communitymembersjoinedtheOutofthe ShadowswalkatCoffsJettytoraiseawarenessaboutsuicideprevention.Local businessesandorganisations,includingGambleAwareMid&NorthernNSW,BCU Bank,WelcomeHospitality,Headspace,MissionAustralia,NewHorizons,Social Futures,Galambila,CCSPN,CoffsCoastWildlifeSanctuary,BennyRacing,TripleM andSeenAustraliaparticipatedinthispowerfulevent.Thewalkfosteredastrong senseofhopeandunityasthecommunitycametogethertorememberthoselostto suicideandpromoteopenconversationsaroundmentalhealth.Itwasaheartfelt reminderoftheimportanceofsupportandconnectioninaddressingmentalhealth challenges.

Weareinvitingexpressionsofinterestfromlocalbusinesses,organisationsandcommunitygroupstosponsororsupport theOutoftheShadowsWalkinSeptember2025.Thisimportanteventraisesawarenessaboutsuicidepreventionand providesanopportunityforthecommunitytocometogetherinsolidarity.Yoursupportcanmakeameaningfuldifference byhelpinguspromotementalhealthandwellbeingacrosstheregion.Ifyouwouldliketocontributeorgetinvolved,please reachouttobepartofthisvitalcauseinmakingourcommunitystrongerandmoreconnected.Email: amartin@lifelinenc.org.au.

Upcoming Trainings: UpcomingTrainings:

10thOct2024-Bellingen

14thOct2024-Online Mon&Thurs5:30-8:30pmfor6weeks Callusat: 0266514093 oremail: training@lifelinenc.org.au formoreinfo.

Gamblingamongyoungpeopleis common,theyareexposedtogambling aspartoftheireverydaylives.The NSWYouthGamblingStudytooka closelookatyoungpeople’sgambling behavioursandattitudes.Theresearch foundthat:

Almost30%ofkidsaged12to17 hadgambledinthepastyear. Theyfirstgambledwhentheywere 11or12yearsold.

3%to4%haveagamblingproblem orareatrisk.

GambleAwareMid&NorthernNSWwouldliketoannouncea workshopforparentsandguardiansaimedatraisingawareness aboutgamblingharmandprovidingtoolstosupportyoungpeople. Weareseekingexpressionsofinterestfromlocalschoolsand organisationswhowouldliketohostorparticipateinthese informativesessions.Thisisavaluableopportunitytohelpprotect andeducateourcommunity'syouth.Formoreinformationorto expressyourinterest,pleaseemail: rclutario@lifelinenc.org.au.

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Counselling

CONVERSATIONS

with JULIE THOMAS

FROM BEYOND THE SURFACE COUNSELLING

Anxiety may cause a serious inability to function to our highest capacity. The intense worry and fear about everyday situations can elevate our heart rate, we breathe more rapidly, we may perspire more and feel shaky, or tremble and we may have a sense of impending danger or panic.

Anxiety can be a normal feeling in stressful situations such as taking an exam, meeting new people or public speaking. However, anxiety becomes an issue when anxious feelings become excessive, all-consuming and interfere with our daily lives.

Working through anxiety may be difficult enough to manage in the daytime but when we experience it at night, we often ask ourselves what is going on? Is the anxiety getting worse or is it something else?

So why does our anxiety appear worse at night? Many people with or without an anxiety disorder can experience their brain having racing and intrusive thoughts, often feeling they cannot turn them off. It can impact sleep quality and quantity, and we feel that the issue or problem is extremely large and all-encompassing. Having anxious thoughts at night is common as we have fewer distractions than throughout the day. Think of your day, it may be full of various activities, jobs and family commitments that keep you busy. At night there are no distractions

Anxiety WORSE AT Why is Night?

(except if you have children who are waking up during the night, however, that may also contribute to worrying thoughts, will I get sleep tonight, will they wake me up), all these thoughts are going around in your head. When we are feeling fatigued due to lack of sleep, we find it more difficult to cope and deal with our worries positively. Anxious thoughts before bed, tiredness and difficulty coping with worries become a destructive spiral to our mental and physical health.

Symptoms of anxiety are typically similar whether we experience them throughout the day or at night, however, at night they may feel more intense. We may experience anxiety as a physical feeling as well as mental symptoms. We may experience for example sweating, trembling, headache, racing thoughts, hyperfocused on past conversations or memories, we may experience muscle pain, self-criticism, and negative thought patterns.

If anxiety is keeping you awake at night or waking you at night, here are a few strategies to try. One or some may resonate with you, try them, and remember it takes time to change habits and patterns.

1. Having a bedtime routine or ritual that you do each night can assist your mind and body to relax and make it easier to get to sleep. Avoid screen time and vigorous exercise workouts as this will have the opposite effect on your nervous system. It will wind you up rather than unwind you ready for sleep.

2. Use a journal before bedtime to write your thoughts down or those moments that you re-play in your head, for example, arguments, or past conversations that were not productive. This may help you to let those thoughts go so you are not going over and over the problems or worries of your day. It may also be helpful when writing down your thoughts to consider incorporating a few things you are grateful for.

3. Try not to go to bed hungry and avoid any caffeinated drinks as these can heighten anxiety. Try a relaxing herbal tea but remember not too much or your sleep will be disturbed by needing the bathroom.

4. If you find you cannot fall asleep, rather than lie there and worry about not sleeping, get up. Keep the lights low and do not be tempted to check your phone or other technology, try something that relaxes you such as reading a book, something that will help your mind and body relax and calm down.

These coping strategies may help; however, you may need to consult your general practitioner or mental health clinician if you find your symptoms are continuous throughout the day and night. Until next time, be kind and gentle with yourself.

Julie Thomas MCouns, BPsychSC, BEd(ECTeach) Member of the

Australian Counselling Association Member of WPATH, AUSPATH

Welcome Dental

Welcome Dental are proud to have Ms Jessica Cantrill and Ms Susan Waldorf work within our surgery. Their journey along the way so far ,is one that not many know and

we’d like to

share

with you their stories and why they love what they do.

ess and Susie have similar journeys; both are from the Macksville area; went to local primary schools and high schools, and worked as Dental Assistants while they were in their later years of school (the start of their career).

Jess and Susie also lived together while studying, growing up through their later teen years! Once they graduated school, they both decided to advance their careers in the dental industry and commenced their studies in Newcastle. While studying at the University of Newcastle, Jess and Susie both worked for different clinics in the Central Coast and this is where their journey separates...

JESS CANTRILL continued working at the Central Coast Clinic after graduating Bachelor of Oral Health in 2008 for the next nine years and had a family while based there. Later she

decided it would be nice to move home and be closer to a support network. Jess returned home, attaining employment with Dr Sharon Marinucci whom she has worked with since. Jess works as a Dental Hygienist; working with dentists to establish and maintain the best possible oral health outcomes of their patients. Jess likes to focus on preventive care and oral health education. Jess loves her job and the thing she loves the most is the relationships she builds with her patients over the course of their treatment and preventive care over the years. It is very rewarding having so many thankful and happy patients.

Outside of work Jess spends a lot of time with her family, they will often be seen at the local soccer fields or nippers. She loves to go to the gym at Raleigh and enjoy what our local area has to offer.

SUSIE WALDORF. After graduating from her

therapy degree, Susie decided to relocate home, settle down to have a family and be close to her family network. When she returned home, she applied for a job with Dr Sharon Marinucci and has been working with her ever since.

Susie works as an Oral Health Therapist (dually qualified as a Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist). Susie’s role is to educate and motivate our patients to maintain optimal oral health by providing relevant education and information and work alongside our team to achieve this.

Susie loves her job and the thing she loves most is the interaction with her patients. There is nothing more rewarding than a child skipping down the hallway for their routine dental visit. Outside of work Susie loves to spend time with her family, be outdoors enjoying what our local area has to offer, especially being with her young family by the water!

Phone: (02) 6655 5800

Email: info@welcomedental.com.au

Website: www.welcomedental.com.au

COFFS HARBOUR

SURGICAL

Can you tell us about your medical background and training?

I initially trained at the Austin Hospital in Melbourne with further surgical training in the UK and Jamaica. I subsequently underwent training in endoscopy and laparoscopic (or ‘keyhole’) surgery in Melbourne and Brisbane, and commenced practice in Coffs Harbour with endoscopic and advanced laparoscopic skills in 2004.

What is your area of specialisation and what drew you to this?

As a medical student I was inspired by my Uncle Bill who then worked in PNG as a missionary surgeon. Since that time many of my surgical mentors and colleagues have been exceptional doctors and teachers. Teaching junior doctors and medical students has also been a very rewarding aspect of my career.

I am a general and bariatric (weight loss) surgeon. I regularly perform many general surgical and endoscopic procedures and have developed a particular interest in bariatric surgery. Bariatric surgery involves laparoscopic procedures like gastric banding, sleeve gastrectomy, and gastric bypass designed to help individuals living with obesity achieve substantial weight loss. These surgeries

offer benefits well beyond weight reduction. Patients often experience improvement in obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and sleep apnoea, along with enhanced mobility, mental health and quality of life. I also regularly perform abdominoplasty (‘tummy tuck’) surgery.

What do you consider your greatest strengths as a physician?

When working with patients I take the time to fully understand their unique needs, approaching care from a holistic perspective. While my surgical techniques are precise and focused on delivering the best results, I always prioritise the well-being and safety of each patient.

Surgery is not always appropriate, so I guide some patients to achieve the best health outcomes with other specialists or alternative therapies as required.

What have been your most notable achievements of which you are proud?

I am proud to have introduced bariatric surgery to Coffs Harbour in 2004, playing a key role in developing this at Baringa Private Hospital. I am also proud of our multidisciplinary team of talented allied health practitioners who support patients before and after weight loss surgery: Madeleine Southall (Bariatric Dietitian), Kyla Holley (Bariatric Counsellor) and

Waipato Carroll (Bariatric Nurse). Dr Neville Wulff excels as my regular surgical assistant. We only work with expert anaesthetists. Why is it important to have your practice in a regional area like the Coffs Coast? I feel incredibly fortunate to live and work on the Coffs Coast, a truly special part of NSW. Over the past 20 years, we’ve seen a steady increase in the number and variety of medical and surgical specialists, allowing patients to access top-quality care locally. The facilities at both public and private hospitals have also improved significantly, although referrals on to larger tertiary hospitals remains appropriate in some cases.

How can people access your services?

To access our services, a referral from a GP is required.

Our clinic is conveniently located at: Suites 9 and 10

60–62 Albany Street, Coffs Harbour. For any questions, feel free to call our friendly receptionists: 6650 0966

More information is also available on our website: www.coffsharboursurgical.com.au

DR ANDREW RAMSAY General and Bariatric Surgeon

Can you tell us about your professional background and training? Absolutely!

I’m a Clinical Psychologist and Psychology Board-Approved Clinical Supervisor, which means I offer individual therapy for clients, as well as formal supervision and support to other psychologists and mental health professionals through clinical supervision.  After my undergraduate degree with honours in Psychology, I completed my PhD in Neuroscience at McGill University in Canada and, originally, I thought I’d move into psychiatry or neurology. However, I found myself drawn to the in-depth, one-on-one therapeutic work that clinical psychology offered, and completed my clinical psychology training at Macquarie University. I’ve also trained extensively in trauma-focused and family therapies, and clinical supervision.  I value opportunities to continue learning and supporting mental health professionals in our community, alongside my clinical work. I helped establish a graduate level psychology program in Coffs Harbour and teach graduate programs at a number of universities and run clinical workshops for local healthcare organisations. I am very passionate about psychology and mental health care, and love the variety of my professional life.

What is your area of specialisation and what drew you to this? This is tricky – I have many!  As a clinical psychologist, I work across the mental health spectrum, treating issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, addictions, bipolar disorder, PTSD and OCD. Early in my career, I specialised in supporting people who experienced trauma, and I still work, teach and run workshops in this space. I also enjoy working with young people, those emerging into adulthood, and families, and I’ve worked with Headspace for many years.

But one of my driving motivations is making mental health services accessible to all. Part of this is empowering those who care for us – the workers and organisations. I do this through clinical supervision, support services and education opportunities, like running workshops that upskill people who work in

Dr

Basia Radlinska

CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST & CLINICAL DIRECTOR

healthcare and education, minimise burnout and prevent vicarious traumatisation.  I also work with leadership teams to consider how their organisational practices can be more trauma-informed, and offer employee assistance programs.

What do you consider your greatest strengths as a clinician? I don’t know if you can thrive in this field without authentically and compassionately caring about your clients, colleagues and community. I have enormous passion for my work, genuinely care about and admire the people I work with, and feel privileged to share in their lives.

That sense of purpose fuels me to push for clinical excellence and continuous growth. Being a university teacher, workshop facilitator and clinical supervisor means I’m constantly learning and staying up to date with the latest evidence. I think this also shines through in my clinical work.

Why is it so important to have your practice here in a regional area like the Coffs Coast? It’s vital that high-quality

care, expertise and training is accessible for everyone, not just those living in big cities, and that’s what we offer at Reflective Psychology and Harbour Therapy Clinic – expert clinical care, from practitioners with enormous passion and experience in diverse specialties. For example, we have clinicians who specialise in supporting expectant and new parents, in trauma-focused care, working with young people, somatic psychotherapies, and so much more. By practising here, they not only support our community on an individual level, but they support our broader mental healthcare workforce also.

How can people access your services? They can get in touch via our websites: Reflective Psychology: www.reflectivepsych.com.au

Harbour Therapy Clinic: www.harbourtherapyclinic.com.au

Can you tell us about your medical background and training?

I’ve been working as an Orthopaedic Surgeon in Coffs Harbour in both public and private since the beginning of 2023. I completed my specialist training in New South Wales, including 12 months at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. I grew up in a small regional city and it feels great to be able to give back to a similar community, and it has the perfect feel for a place to raise my young family.

Most recently I have undertaken sub-specialist training gaining additional skills in hip and knee replacements, as well as foot and ankle surgery. Prior to this, I attended medical school in Queensland, with my final year in the USA and Canada.

Why Orthopaedic Surgery?

Having been through multiple sporting injuries showed me how intriguing the human body is with regards to dealing with injuries and its ability to recover. Through surgical and non-surgical treatments I am able to deliver improvements for patients in their quality of life and function; which is highly rewarding. My main interests are in lower limb problems such as hip and knee arthritis, as well as foot and ankle issues.

What have been your most notable achievements that you are proud of so far?

I am proud to have completed my Master’s thesis investigating gluteal injuries and hip pain whilst doing my orthopaedic training. I achieved fellowships of The Royal Australian College of Surgeons (FRACS) and Australian Orthopaedic Association (FAOrthA) in 2021, and I am a member of Australian Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society.

How can people access your services?

Come and see me in rooms at Harbour Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, Level 2 Specialist Centre Coffs Harbour

New referrals welcome for hip, knee, foot & ankle. referrals@drmitchellkingston.com (02) 9053 1280 www.drmitchellkingston.com

ORTHOPAEDIC SURGEON, HARBOUR ORTHOPAEDICS AND SPORTS MEDICINE

October is Mental Health Month, a time to reflect on the importance of mental well-being and the simple yet powerful tools we can use to support one another. One of the most valuable skills is active listening. At Lifeline, we know that this practice is central to the support our Crisis Support Volunteers and team provide. It’s a critical tool that helps individuals feel heard, validated, and understood, especially during moments of vulnerability.

Active listening goes beyond hearing words - it’s about fully engaging in a conversation, offering your undivided attention, and being present in a meaningful way. Whether you’re speaking with a friend, family member, or colleague, practicing active listening can significantly improve the quality of your interactions and deepen your relationships. Here are ten easy ways to elevate your active listening skills:

1. Give Your Full Attention: In a world full of distractions, this can be harder than it sounds. Put down your phone, close your laptop, and focus on the person speaking. Eye contact and undivided attention show that you are fully present.

2. Be Present: We’ve all had moments where our minds wander during a conversation. It’s natural, but when you notice it happening, recalibrate and bring your attention back to

the speaker’s words and body language.

3. Avoid Interrupting: Everyone deserves to express their thoughts without being interrupted. Resist the urge to jump in or finish someone’s sentences. By allowing them to speak fully, you show that you respect their voice.

4. Show Empathy: Step into the speaker’s shoes. What are they feeling? What challenges might they be facing? Showing empathy means you are not only hearing their words but also understanding the emotions behind them.

5. Use Nonverbal Cues: Sometimes, words aren’t necessary to show engagement. Open body language, such as uncrossing your arms and nodding in agreement, signals that you are actively listening.

6. Reflect and Paraphrase: Summarising or paraphrasing what you’ve heard shows the speaker that you are processing their message. Saying something like, “So what I’m hearing is...” can be a great way to confirm understanding.

7. Ask Clarifying Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions if something isn’t clear. This not only helps you understand better but also shows the speaker that you are truly interested in what they’re saying.

8. Avoid Judgment: Conversations about personal challenges, especially those involving mental health, can be hard to share. Approach

Thriving

FROM LIFELINE NORTH COAST NOT JUST

with ANGELA

MARTIN

ACTIVE LISTENING: AN INVALUABLE SKILL FOR LIFE

these moments with an open mind, free of judgment, and be there to listen, not to critique.

9. Be Patient: Vulnerability takes time. Don’t rush the speaker or press for quicker answers. Give them the space they need to express themselves fully.

10. Practice Active Silence: Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do is to say nothing at all. Silence can create a safe space for the speaker to reflect and share more deeply.

By incorporating these active listening techniques into your daily life, you are taking steps to create stronger, more compassionate relationships. In the context of Mental Health Month, these practices can make a significant difference to those around you who might be struggling in silence.

At Lifeline North Coast, we’ve seen firsthand how the power of listening can transform lives. When people feel heard, they’re more likely to open up, seek help, and find the support they need. This Mental Health Month let’s all make an effort to be better listeners. We have the opportunity to make meaningful connections and contribute to a kinder, more supportive community.

Remember, it’s not about having the right answers - it’s about being there, fully present, and showing that you care. Your listening ear might be the first step someone needs on their journey to healing.

Will I Pay More for Aged Care?

Changes to aged care fees are coming, and they will impact both home care and residential care.

A er a long wait and lots of speculation, the government has released details of the proposed changes.

While some people will see their fees increase, the good news is that aged care remains heavily subsidised, and fees will continue to be based on your financial situation to help with affordability.

Here’s what we know so far:

• The government will continue to cover 73% of the cost of residential care and 89% of the cost of home care.

• These changes are designed to improve the quality of aged care and help providers meet growing demand.

• Most changes will only apply to people starting home care or entering residential care from 1 July 2025.

If you or a loved one need care soon, it might be worth getting advice to see if moving before the changes take effect could save you money and understand how you will be affected. While there’s still a lot to unpack, here’s a quick overview of

what’s planned.

Proposed residential care changes

1. Room price cap: From 1 January 2025, some room prices might start to rise. Providers who want to charge more than $550,000 currently need approval, but this cap will increase to $750,000, making it easier for providers to increase prices.

2. RAD retention amount: You can pay for your room with a lump sum (Refundable Accommodation Deposit or RAD) or as a daily fee. Currently, RADs are fully refundable when you leave care, but from 1 July 2025, you may lose up to 10% of the RAD you paid.

the amount could increase as time goes on.

4. Living expenses: Your contribution to daily expenses like food, laundry, and electricity could rise by up to $12.55 per day, depending on your financial situation. Some providers may charge more for higher standards or quality, so it’s important to check prices before deciding on a place to live.

Depending on your finances, you may be asked to contribute more to your care costs, which could include services like entertainment, bathing, and mobility assistance.

3. Indexing rent: If you choose to pay a daily fee instead of a lump sum, this "rent" (called the Daily Accommodation Payment or DAP) will be indexed over time, meaning

5. Care expenses: Depending on your finances, you may be asked to contribute more to your care costs, which could include services like entertainment, bathing, and mobility assistance. The government will still cover most care costs, but your portion could go up by around $10 per day, with the lifetime cap rising from approximately $80,000 to $130,000.

6. Assessment of your home: No changes are planned for how your home is assessed when determining what you can afford to pay. If a spouse or “protected person” lives there, it remains exempt; otherwise, only approximately $208,000 of its value (indexed) will be included in financial assessments.

Proposed home care changes

1. New Support at Home program: A new program will combine the current home care options into 10 levels of care packages to better meet the specific needs of individuals.

government (up to the available budget of your care package), you may have to pay more for services like cleaning and gardening.

3. Means-testing: Your contributions to home care will now become means-tested, picking up assets as well as income, according to Centrelink rules.

The higher costs will mostly impact selffunded retirees and some partpensioners but everyone could face higher costs.

2. Higher contribution fees: While clinical care will be fully covered by the

The higher costs will mostly impact self-funded retirees and some partpensioners but everyone could face higher costs (and bigger decisions), making it essential to carefully choose care providers and understand accommodation costs. The changes may simplify some of the confusion we’ve seen under the current system, but now, more

than ever, it’s important to get advice to understand what you'll need to pay and how these fees might change as your financial situation evolves.

Planning ahead is key, and some decisions can feel overwhelming. This is where I can help as an Accredited Aged Care ProfessionalTM. I can provide advice to help you stay focused on the important issues and filter out the “noise”. If you want to talk through your options or find out more information for your situation, call my office on 0431 414 799 to find out how I might help.

This advice is general in nature and everyone’s circumstances are different. So it’s important to speak to someone like myself who is a licenced financial adviser (I am an Authorised Representative of Count Financial Limited AFSL 227232).

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SCAN TOSPONSOR

In an era of educational transformation, the symbiosis between local businesses and schools has become increasingly vital. In the face of stressed school budgets and escalating living expenses, it is imperative that schools infuse their curricula and extracurricular offerings with real-world relevance. However, what often goes unrecognised is the exceptional opportunity these partnerships present for the business sector. Let’s delve into the three primary reasons local enterprises should forge alliances with educational institutions, and ways to engage. Elevating Corporate Social Responsibility Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is a key component of modern business practices. The Parliamentary Joint Committee’s report on corporate responsibility highlights the importance of businesses integrating social and environmental considerations into their operations. This includes addressing direct impacts and contributing to broader community goals, such as education. Partnering with schools is a powerful way for businesses to demonstrate CSR and can contribute to a school’s and business’s success and visibility, including:

• Sponsorship: Presentation day prizes, golf day sponsorships, awards at sports and performing arts events, and donation of prizes for events.

• Providing resources: Making one-off donations to school projects, facilities, or service projects.

• Developing strategic partnerships: Establishing a long-term, mutually beneficial relationship that aligns business goals with educational needs such as sharing professional skills or having access to services such as guest speaking or mentoring.

Cultivating the Workforce of Tomorrow

The ever-evolving job market necessitates that secondary school graduates be equipped for a spectrum of post-secondary trajectories, encompassing trade apprenticeships, tertiary education, and direct workforce entry. Contemporary educational paradigms emphasise the cultivation of the “6Cs”: Critical thinking, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity, Citizenship, and Character, alongside traditional academic competencies in literacy, numeracy, and digital proficiency. We have witnessed remarkable outcomes from initiatives that facilitate engagement between industry professionals and students, including internships, work placements, incidental or intentional mentorship opportunities, and career expos. By participating in these initiatives, businesses contribute to the shaping of a more adept and versatile workforce while gaining access to a cadre of students already conversant with their industry’s demands and culture.

Nurturing Circular Community Growth

The Australian Parliament’s report (2013) indicates that when businesses actively engage with schools, they foster a more motivated and

Education Update

THE SYNERGY OF EDUCATION AND ENTERPRISE: A CALL FOR COLLABORATION BETWEEN SCHOOLS AND LOCAL BUSINESSES

involved student body. Students who perceive the real-world applicability of their education are more likely to persist in their studies, strive for academic excellence and are simply more engaged when they see the relevance of their learning. Businesses can not only contribute to students’ academic and personal development but can also reap the benefits of a more motivated workforce. This reciprocal reinforcement helps students be better prepared for their future roles, and helps businesses have access to a well-equipped talent pool.

Charting the Course Forward

Schools require the support of local businesses to enhance their programs and equip students for future challenges, while businesses stand to gain from amplified CSR impact, access to a well-prepared workforce, and community growth. To explore how your business can get involved with my school, email secretary@bdc. nsw.edu.au, or visit the BDC Business Directory to list your business https://www.bdc.nsw.edu. au/our-community/business-directory.

Sources:Mehta, J. & Fine, S. (2019). In Search of Deeper Learning - the Quest to Remake the American High School. Harvard University Press. Parliamentary Joint Committee on Corporations and Financial Services (2013) Corporate responsibility: Managing risk and creating value, Home – Parliament of Australia. (Accessed: 12 September 2024).

FROM BISHOP DRUITT COLLEGE with NICK JOHNSTONE

Citizen Science

University collaboration highlights the impact of

LEGACY

MINING IN MACLEAY RIVER

An extensive, seven-year citizen science project in the Macleay River catchment has found toxic metalloids associated with historic mining can endure for hundreds of years, long after mining activity has ceased.

Prompted by community concerns over water quality and mining-related contamination, the study explored the seasonal behaviour of two carcinogenic metalloids, arsenic and antimony, that often occur together in mining-impacted landscapes.

The project was a collaboration between researchers at Southern Cross University and local community group Save Our Macleay River (SOMR), with about $22,000 in funding from the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.

Due to the longevity of the project and the commitment of the citizen scientists, it was possible to track these metalloids across a period that included drought, floods and bushfires.

Southern Cross lead researcher Professor Scott Johnston said the picture painted by such an extensive time series provides unique insight into arsenic and antimony in the river and the environmental impacts of historic mining.

“It’s a sobering reminder of the importance

of taking care of our river systems, and of the potential for long-term effects,” he said.

The study involved the collection of more than 500 samples by local residents near Bellbrook in the mid-catchment of the river, located on the NSW Mid North Coast. The citizen scientists received training in accurate sampling, labelling and storage from Southern Cross experts.

“Arsenic appears to be strongly influenced by water temperature and tends to go up and down with the seasons.

Antimony is a bit more dynamic and is heavily influenced by where the rain falls in the catchment.

Professor Johnston.

Although concentrations of antimony were mostly below guideline values, the data indicated it could take 600-1000 years before the river is fully leached back to premining levels.

“During the project we’ve also been able to track the impact of natural disasters like bushfires, drought and floods on the river,” he said.

We can use this kind of data to predict how the river might behave over time following natural disasters and how we can best protect and manage it in the future.

“The transport of antimony and arsenic down the river, by water and sediment, is also linked to big seasonal climate patterns like the El-Nino-Southern Oscillation,” said

Citizen scientists create unique time series Founding member of SOMR Mr Arthur Bain is a Kempsey Shire Councillor who was instrumental in the project.

“We wanted to gather data for an accurate picture of water quality, which is essential when we are deciding how to manage the river and issues like the disposal of tailings,” he said.

Professor Johnston said the data collection and research would not have been possible without the dedication of citizen scientists like Arthur.

Bellbrook in the Macleay River catchment. Credit: Scott Johnston

“People care very much about the place where they live and the natural landscape around them. By combining Southern Cross University’s scientific capacity and expertise with the sustained efforts of our local communities, we have a very powerful data set.”

“We can use this kind of data to predict how the river might behave over time following natural disasters and how we can best protect and manage it in the future,” said Professor Johnston.

COVID-19 had an unexpected effect on the project.

“Floods up and down the eastern seaboard in early 2020 were hot on the heels of the catastrophic 2019 bushfires,” said Professor Johnston.

“Large fish kills were reported in many rivers, including the upper Macleay. However, many Government-run water quality monitoring

programs across NSW were shut down during this period because it coincided with the first COVID lockdown in 2020.

The dedicated citizen scientists at home in Bellbrook had a mission and time on their hands and were able to collect daily samples of river water during this period.

“The dedicated citizen scientists at home in Bellbrook had a mission and time on their hands and were able to collect daily samples of river water during this period. This has given us an unprecedented level of insight into the impact of bushfires on river water quality and how it recovered over time.”

Residents reported the river was like a ‘cake mix’ full of sediment following the bushfires in 2019. Now the science can show exactly what it was made of and how the water recovered over the following months.

Catchments, Coasts and Communities

Cluster

The Catchments, Coasts and Communities Research Impact Cluster at Southern Cross University works with communities to understand local rivers and water systems, how they process nutrients and pollutants and how we can improve their management.

Research activities in the Cluster include water quality, pesticide pollution, the impact of intensive horticulture in coastal areas, dryland flooding, carbon capture and storage among others. To learn more about these projects and other work of the Cluster, see: scu.edu.au/research

Arthur Bain (left) and Professor Scott Johnston

focus_interview

KEANU LAW

Keanu Law is a 9 year old local who is excelling both on the soccer field and at school. He is passionate about ‘the beautiful game’ and always improving his skills. He is a team player who loves having a run with his mates at Coffs United.

When did you first start playing soccer and what do you love about it?

I first started playing soccer when I was 5. My Mum, Aunty and my Grandad played soccer, so it made me want to play as I saw my Mum play all the time. I like playing as a team with my friends because I get to spend time with them and move my body at the same time.

Can you tell us about who you have played for and your progression so far?

I played for Sawtell, but then we moved to Coffs Harbour and the last few years I have played for Coffs United. My progression is skilling against the other players.

What do you feel are your strengths in your game?

Ball skills, like skilling and shooting accurately. I also like to help my team players as some don’t get much of the ball, so I like to pass them the ball to help them have a turn to score.

What are you currently working on?

I’m currently working on my cardio because I like to play midfield and need to run for longer in that position. Mum said we can start to go on runs a few times a week. We will be practising sprinting and throw ins. I’m also learning about the offside rule because it’s not a rule we have in our game yet! What have been some highlights for you in your time playing soccer?

Pele is my role model, because he was such a good player. He practised every day and I do that too. I practise soccer at OOSH, at school and in the afternoons after school.

When I scored 8 goals in one match. We have won most of our games this year which is good too. I like to see my friends getting better at playing too.

Who are some of your role models?

Pele is my role model, because he was such a good player. He practised every day and I do that too. I practise soccer at OOSH, at school and in the afternoons after school. Pele was told he was not good enough and then became

Pele proved everyone wrong. My other role model is Messi.

Do you have a favourite player/ team, or a family member/coach/friend that inspires you?

My Mum inspires me because she plays soccer too, we love it and play soccer together. My Mum also tells me that it’s not always about winning, and if you do that’s good, but be respectful of the other team players and shake their hands. She told me how important it is to share the ball by passing it and not keeping it to myself, it will be nice for the other players but also easier for us to play the game.

My coach Rick helps me improve my skills by giving me different ideas of what to practise.

What are some of your goals moving forward in your soccer career?

I would like to become a professional soccer player when I get older, I would love to play for the Socceroos or even a Swiss team. For now I have to work on a few things to improve my game and keep playing winter soccer, 6 aside and maybe futsal.

We hear you’re not only an amazing sportsman, but you’re also doing incredibly well at school! What are some of your favourite subjects at school?

I love Maths and PE.

I like the challenge of Maths, I’m only in year 4, but I’m doing high school maths. My favourite maths subject is times tables because it’s easy. I like PE because I get to move my body and play all different sports.

Thanks Keanu.

the best. Aka the GOAT.

DAYNE TAYLOR

North Coast Boating Centre at Urunga are your local and exclusive supplier and servicer of the Bar Crusher boat – we cha ed to Dayne Taylor to find out more…

Dayne, tell us more about being the exclusive home of selling and maintaining the Bar Crusher Boats.

We are thrilled to be the home of Bar Crusher Boats here on the Coffs Coast. Until recently, there was only 1 sole dealership in NSW, and nobody to service customers between Sydney and Brisbane. With such a great coastline and an abundance of fishos along the NSW North Coast it was clear that the brand needed some representation in our area. Credit goes to the whole team here at North Coast Boating Centre - we were Bar Crushers #1 choice to consider taking on the brand. A lot of our existing customers had Bar Crusher boats, so we were aware of the quality of workmanship

and the feedback from those customers regarding the ride and performance was all very positive! It was a very easy decision to make when the phone call from Bar Crusher HQ came through!

Why choose Bar Crusher, what is the Bar Crusher difference?

Bar Crusher boats lead the industry in design, excellence and quality, building the most advanced plate aluminium boat on the market.

practicality, versatility and, importantly, durability…

Tell us about the ease of towing and maintaining a Bar Crusher.

Bar Crusher boats lead the industry in design, excellence and quality, building the most advanced plate aluminium boat on the market.

Every feature on every model boat has been carefully considered for its performance,

My favourite saying is that a boat that is easy to use i.e launch and retrieve on your own, easy to wash and maintain after use, is going to get used more often!

All our Bar Crusher Boats come pre-fitted on custom designed and manufactured Easy-Tow trailers. These trailers are 100% drive on-off and all feature the Bar-Catch system which

NORTH COAST BOATING CENTRE

launch and retrieve your boat on your own, single handed, so no need to rely on family or friends to get out on the water.

Every detail of every boat has been carefully thought out to maximise your experience and be the ultimate vessel to take you on your fishing adventures.

Bar Crusher boats are 100% plate alloy –meaning there is no carpet or timber in them. Simply open the drain bungs and hit the boat with some fresh water after a big day out catching fish and it’s good to go again tomorrow!

You really don’t get much more easy and user friendly than that!

Known as a “fishing weapon” of a boat what does that mean?

Bar Crusher’s slogan is “Fishing Weapons” –that’s because they have designed and built their whole range to be exactly that… Every detail of every boat has been carefully thought out to maximise your experience and be the ultimate vessel to take you on your fishing adventures.

Everything has a place – and majority of the models include most things every angler would want on their dream fishing boat. If it’s not a standard feature – I can guarantee it’s in the optional extra list and can be added to your NEW Bar Crusher Fishing Weapon!

How can people see if this is the right boat for them?

Simply call into our showroom here at North Coast Boating Centre in Urunga. Our sales

team are super casual and it’s a very lowpressure experience looking at our range of Bar Crusher Boats. We have a great variety of models on display – and we can even arrange an on-water test drive in one of our Bar Crusher and Suzuki Marine packages to help make that decision easier.

If you want to check them out online – jump onto our website or go directly to www. barcrusher.com.au and you can suss out the whole range and every size and model.

Tell us how we can get in touch or come and view the showroom and talk to the experienced NCBC team.

North Coast Boating Centre is located in Urunga on the Coffs Coast – it’s a nice 15 minute drive south of Coffs Harbour, and about 10 minutes north of Nambucca.

We have an amazing facility with a huge workshop where all our boat fit-outs and services and repairs are carried out right next to our showroom and sales department. You can call in Monday to Friday 8am till 5pm, or Saturday mornings from 8am till 12noon. If you can’t make it down in person – reach out via phone on (02) 6655 7700 or shoot us an email to

sales@northcoastboatingcentre.com any time! northcoastboatingcentre.com

CKirsty Women Businessin

an you tell us about your business?

Welcome Dental is a locally owned and operated dental clinic set in the township of Urunga. We do all types of general dental, cosmetic, orthodontic treatments, implants and whitening. We have visiting specialists to our clinic and are open 6 days a week from October 2024.

We invest a lot in our team, and we love to see them succeed, so having a strong positive culture is important to us. It reflects in our dayto-day work and the happiness of our patients. What’s your favourite part of the work you do?

My job is enjoyable and there are plenty of things that fill my day. It’s an interesting position that has an array of different responsibilities, the most enjoyable part is the people, whether that is the team or our patients.

I enjoy getting to know the people we have come into the surgery, hearing their journey and stories and having a laugh with them. For my team it is about their personal and professional growth and success stories that I enjoy being a part of.

I am very grateful to be in this role and to contribute positively to our people’s journey.

Who is your greatest influence in business?

1. Dr Sharon Marinucci; Sharon gave me a job, she trusted in me and provided support. I value her intelligence and am thankful for the way she has pushed me to grow and continue to develop as a manager, leader and as a person.

2. Les Boulle; as a business coach Les has provided guidance and support to me over the past 12 years, even though he has now retired he remains a friend. I have always valued his insight, patience and ability to challenge my thought process. Les taught me some valuable life skills that I will use throughout my life and career.

3. Mum and Dad: They had their own business in town for almost 20 years. They worked incredibly hard and were always honest in their dealings with others. I grew up watching how hard my Dad worked to provide for a family and the risks it takes to set up a business and make it work.

What do you love about living and working on the Coffs Coast?

I absolutely enjoy being a Coffs Harbour local! As a young person I decided to stay here, create a career and life for myself within the Coffs Coast. One of the good things in our town is the relationships you can make with people, building connections and being a part of the community. Having participated and volunteered in a variety of community

groups and organisations over my time so far, I have been fortunate enough to make some wonderful connections with people in our community.

The ocean is my happy place. One of my main hobbies is taking photos of nudibranchs! I also enjoy relaxing in the sun at the Sunday markets or going for a walk along our beautiful beaches, we are definitely living in a wonderful part of the world!

What piece of advice would you give women making their way in the business world?

The only thing I can say to anyone wanting to be in business is that you need to always be honest, act truthfully and do what you say you are going to do. Along with that it is most important to work hard, take opportunities when they are offered to you, help other people when you can and most of all just be you.

How can people learn more about your business?

Anyone who is interested in working at our clinic is welcome to contact us or send a resume through to info@welcomedental.com. au. Our website has information about our team and you can also read about treatment options. Or you can simply pop in and have a look around and a chat to our team.

Thanks Kirsty.

FROM THE DIGITAL LANEWAY

with CATH FOWLER

INORCO Su orting

STATE OF PLAY

with COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

n February 2022, the Northern Rivers faced one of the most devastating natural disasters in Australia's history. Floodwaters surged into towns like Lismore, Coraki, and Broadwater, impacting every family and business in the region. Farmers, who are no strangers to the occasional flood, witnessed water levels higher than ever before, with longstanding institutions like Norco bearing the brunt of the destruction.

For those unfamiliar, Norco is a cornerstone of the North Coast—a 100% farmer-owned cooperative based in Lismore. For over 127 years, it has supported hundreds of families and employed many more across Northern NSW. Norco is not just a business; it is a symbol of the region's resilience, deeply connected to the community. As someone who chaired a farmers' cooperative before entering politics, I have long admired Norco’s leadership, its unwavering commitment to its farmers, and the vital role it plays in sustaining our regional economy.

That’s why the recent decision by the Minns Labor Government to remove Norco milk from hospitals on the North Coast is so troubling. It isn’t just a blow to a local business - it’s a decision that threatens the very livelihoods of farmers who are still recovering from the devastation of the floods. When my office started receiving calls from concerned nurses

and patients about Norco’s sudden removal from our health facilities, it became clear that this decision was made without any local consultation or consideration for the impact on the community.

This situation is not unprecedented. Back in 2018, a similar decision was made under the Coalition Government. However, after pressure from local members and the community, that decision was overturned within five days. What’s different now is the government’s stubborn refusal to do the right thing, despite widespread community and cross-parliamentary support.

Norco is to Lismore what the Big Banana is to Coffs Harbour - an icon that defines the region. Removing Norco milk from hospitals sends a confusing and harmful message to the North Coast, especially at a time when communities are still rebuilding. The floods of 2022 left scars that are far from healed, and now more than ever, we need to see tangible support from our government, not indifference.

The decision to replace Norco milk with a product sourced from outside our region defies logic. It wasn’t made to save money or improve quality, but rather by a faceless bureaucrat detached from the community’s needs. This isn’t just about milk - it’s about standing up for local farmers, supporting sustainability, and protecting the economic lifeblood of the North Coast.

Our community has rallied around Norco. Thousands have already signed our petition calling on the Minns Labor Government to reverse this decision. Even health workers have voiced their concerns, with some reports of patients refusing to drink anything but Norco milk in hospitals. This shows how deeply ingrained Norco is in the fabric of our region. Now is the time for the government to act. Reversing this decision would send a strong message of confidence to the Northern Rivers - a signal that the government hasn’t forgotten about those still recovering. Norco has been the backbone of the North Coast for over a century, and it deserves better than to be sidelined for the sake of bureaucratic convenience.

Supporting Norco is about more than just milk it’s about supporting a vision of thriving regional communities, where families can live and work together, and businesses like Norco are given the respect and recognition they deserve. I urge the Minns Government to listen to our communities and reverse this harmful decision. Norco milk belongs in our hospitals, and our farmers deserve to be backed, not abandoned.

To sign the petition, visit savenorcomilk.com.au

The

2024 HIA - SGA ARCHITECTURAL WINDOW SOLUTIONS

NORTHERN NEW SOUTH WALES HOUSING AWARDS

Can you provide an overview of the HIA Housing Awards and what they aim to achieve?

The HIA - SGA Architectural Window Solutions Northern New South Wales Housing Awards, identify, highlight and reward excellence throughout the housing industry, representing the finest tradespeople and their businesses throughout Australia. The HIA Housing Awards provide home builders and designers the opportunity to receive recognition and showcase their work to the broader industry. The HIA Kitchen & Bathroom Awards acknowledge the talents of designers, manufacturers and installers to plan safe, functional and innovative kitchens and bathrooms.

What is the key criteria used to judge the entries for the awards?

Judging criteria can vary by category but the main criteria the judges are looking out for in the Housing Awards includes quality of workmanship, design effectiveness including environmental sustainability, innovation and visual appeal. Kitchen and bathroom projects are judged against criteria such as quality of workmanship, design appearance, innovation, movement and access.

How do the awards contribute to the development and recognition of

excellence in the building industry?

The HIA Awards enhance the building industry by recognising and celebrating exceptional achievements, setting high standards, and encouraging innovation. They provide a benchmark for quality, to inspire consumers to choose top builders and trades within the region, and offer networking opportunities that foster industry advancements. By highlighting best practices and rewarding excellence, the awards contribute to overall improvements and growth within the industry.

Can you describe the process of selecting winners? What role do judges play, and how are they chosen?

e judges spend a day together adjudicating all of the entries and vote on the finalists and winners based on the strict judging criteria.

What are some of the main challenges you face in organising the HIA Housing Awards?

Organising the HIA Awards involves several key challenges: ensuring fair and thorough judging, managing event logistics and coordination, processing numerous entries, securing sponsorship and funding, promoting the awards, maintaining the integrity of the process, and adapting to industry changes. Addressing these challenges is crucial for a successful awards program.

We aim to appoint experienced and unbiased judges who are experts in the field, i.e fellow builders, designers or industry experts. All judges are volunteers who have entered the awards in the past or have experience in judging the awards from previous years. Judges are paired up in teams and visit every property entered and fill out a scoresheet based solely on the established criteria. The judges spend a day together adjudicating all of the entries and vote on the finalists and winners based on the strict judging criteria.

How do you ensure the awards process remains fair and transparent?

To ensure fairness and transparency in the awards process, we establish clear judging criteria and communicate the criteria and requirements to all entrants. We use impartial judges from out of the entrants’ geographical areas, we maintain a transparent process, conduct regular audits, and adhere to ethical

The 2024 NNSW HIA Housing Awards were held at Pacific Bay Resort on the 14th September.

We had a chat with Daniel Pleaner to find out more…

standards. These practices help build trust and ensure the process is equitable.

Who were the winners and standouts for 2024?

The quality of work this year was exceptional and it was great to see some of our younger upcoming builders come home with some awards.

There were too many winners and standouts to list as we had winners across 21 categories from the whole region. The quality of work this year was exceptional and it was great to see some of our younger upcoming builders come home with some awards. Special congratulations to our Home of the Year winner, JDG Constructions! This year’s Home of the Year is a true masterpiece of construction, seamlessly moulded into the side of a mountain to take full advantage of its stunning coastal

views. The winning builder and their exceptionally skilled tradesmen faced a unique challenge and a distinct wishlist from their client, and their execution has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Tell us about the sponsors.

The sponsors of the awards this year included SGA Architectural Window Solutions as the naming rights partner and our category sponsors included Coffs Harbour Carpet Court & National Tiles, Coffs Harbour Toyota, Cosentino, Hazard Co, HIA Insurance Service, Highgrove Bathrooms Coffs Harbour, James Hardie, Masterhire Coffs Harbour and Steel

Builders. Without continued and new support from the above sponsors the awards wouldn’t be what they are today.

How have the awards evolved over the years, and what changes have been most impactful?

The Northern NSW Awards have evolved from a handful of entries from local builders and a modest luncheon to announce the finalists and winners, to a spectacular evening consisting of 200 guests and multiple entries and category winners and finalists from across the region. Regional winners of major categories advance to the NSW Housing Awards in Sydney. Last year the Northern NSW region had 7 finalists and 3 winners within the NSW Awards which puts us on the map against the biggest and the best NSW has to offer.

Can you share any feedback or reactions from past winners or participants that have stood out to you?

The main standouts over the years include our category award winners who progress through to the NSW Awards and then onto the National Housing awards highlighting the talent we have within our region. In the words of one of our award winning members Ben Edwards from BLE Building ‘When I began my journey in the building industry, I never imagined myself being a finalist for the HIA CSR Australian National Awards. I see the passion I have for my profession not just as work but as an opportunity to create and bring to life unique, bespoke builds for all my amazing clients who place their trust in me.”

How do you measure the success of the awards each year?

The success of the awards are measured through the quantity, quality, and diversity of entries to gauge interest and engagement from our members and the industry. We evaluate the satisfaction of sponsors, partners, and other stakeholders to determine the awards’ value and success. We collect feedback from entrants, judges, and attendees to identify strengths and areas for improvement. Most importantly we analyse the awards’ influence on industry standards and practices to understand their effectiveness in driving trends and promoting best practices.

What are the goals or plans for the future of the HIA Housing and Kitchen and Bathroom awards?

We aim for the Northern NSW Housing and Kitchen and Bathroom Awards to be the night of nights within the NSW building industry with more categories, entrants and recognition across the state and nationally.

The builders and tradespeople in the Mid North Coast and New England areas are some of the most ethical, skilled and quality home builders and renovators in the state, if not Australia, and they deserve the accolades and recognition and for their work to be celebrated.

We utilise social media platforms to create buzz around the awards. We share updates, success stories, and behindthe-scenes content to engage with the members and potential entrants.

How do you engage with industry professionals and stakeholders in the lead-up to the awards?

The HIA uses emails, newsletters, and

publications to share information and benefits about the awards. We utilise social media platforms to create buzz around the awards. We share updates, success stories, and behind-the-scenes content to engage with the members and potential entrants. We send personalised invitations to key industry figures through our branch services committee. We also contact all potential entrants, and potential sponsors to encourage their participation and support. Above all we celebrate and share the success of past winners and finalists to drive interest and entries for the next year.

How can we get in touch?

Please visit the HIA website at hia.com.au to learn more about the awards or give us a call on 1300 650 620 or drop into our Coffs Harbour branch for a chat.

Outdoor Project

Commercial Joinery

Interior Cabinetry

Country Home

2024 Home of the Year

Unique and Difficult Site

GreenSmart Sustainable Home

Townhouse / Villa Development

Specialised Housing

Project Home of the Year

Display Home of the Year

Custom Built Home

Bathroom Design

Bathroom up to $25,000

Kitchen Design

Bathroom $25,000 to $45,000

Bathroom of the year

Kitchen $30,000 to $60,000

Kitchen over $60,000

Kitchen of the Year

Winners

Renovation / Addition of the Year

Custom Built Home up to $500,000

$500,000 to $800,000

Custom Built Home $800,000-$1.5million

Custom Built Home over $1.5 million

JDG Constructions

Forest Built

Plumbe Joinery

Boyd Builders

Friend Construct and Develop

Whiddon Constructions and Green Homes Australia

Stroud Homes Coffs Harbour

Pepper Water Constructions

Aztek Constructions

Stroud Homes Port Macquarie

Daniel Woods Building and Renovations

Perry Homes

Justin Power Constructions

DM Buildwell

Whiddon Constructions and Green Homes Australia

JDG Constructions

Stroud Homes Port Macquarie

Boyd Builders

Ocean Edge Building

Boyd Builders

Stroud Homes Port Macquarie

Farr Better Joinery

Artisan Kitchen and Bathroom Joinery

Artisan Kitchen and Bathroom Joinery

COFFS HARBOUR CARPET COURT

1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 P 6652 4866

Proud supporters of the HIA Awards & outstanding nominees

National Tiles Coffs Harbour 1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6652 4866

JDG Constructions

Photo Credit: Mitch Franzi

+ BRETT

CATHERINE + BRETT BAM

TILE RESCUE COFFS HARBOUR

How long have you been in the trade? I’ve been in the trade for eight years now. I worked for Tile Rescue as a repair technician for almost two years before buying into the franchise.

Why did you start your own business? I feel like this is a valuable product to offer the community. We were an essential business during COVID because what we do is important and can save people thousands of dollars. There are very few people able to seal a leaking shower as effectively or as quickly as us with such an impressive warranty and for such an affordable amount. Our product is a tenth of the cost but still has a massive visual

impact. This little business contributes to the community we live in and that’s something we’re proud of.

We want you to be as happy with our work as we are and before we leave we’d like to hear you say “Wow” at the very least when you see the finished work.

Tell us what customers can except when hiring your company? We work hard to make sure that our customers get the best service we can provide. Our aftersales service is important to us too, it’s not a case of finished and forget. We want you to be as happy with our work as we are and before we leave we’d like to hear you say “Wow” at the very least when you see the finished work.

How do you ensure that the project stays on budget and on schedule? We provide a free inspection and quote on each job

before it’s done. Our prices and services are standardised according to what each rescue job costs so that we can be sure no surprises pop up.

How can our readers get in touch with you? We are active on social media, look us up at Tile Rescue Cofffs Harbour and Tile Rescue Port Macquarie.

Google is very fond of us and will point you to the Franchises website. There’s a whole call centre on the other side of the 1800 number that will put you in touch with us, but the simplest and best way is to call our office and have a chat at 0435 930 985

COASTAL SKYLIGHTS

Firstly, what is Coastal Skylights?

What motivated you to start this locally owned business?

We are a small, family-owned and operated skylight retailer and installation company dedicated to bringing the beauty of natural light into spaces.

Coastal Skylights specialises in all aspects of skylights, from sales, to intallations and maintenance.

We saw a gap in the local market for a solely skylight focused business where we provide the customer with the whole installation process without needing to engage and manage multiple trades. We complete the project more efficiently saving the customer

Blair and Kaitlyn Blanchette are the proud owners of Coastal Skylights who specialise in skylight installations to create beautiful naturally lit spaces in new and existing buildings. This month we wanted to find out more about the people behind the business.

money and the hassle of organising different trades.

The company was founded by Blair Blanchette, an experienced roof plumber with 19 years experience, ensuring high-quality installations that not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of a space but also guarantee durability and longevity.

One of the standout features of Coastal Skylights is their in-house design team, which collaborates closely with their skilled installers to create bespoke internal skylight openings.

One of the standout features of Coastal Skylights is their in-house design team, which collaborates closely with their skilled installers to create bespoke internal skylight openings. This seamless integration ensures that each skylight is perfectly tailored to fit the unique aesthetic of the client's space. By providing customdesigned solutions, Coastal Skylights can enhance the natural lighting and visual appeal of any room, creating a brighter, more inviting environment.

What advantages are there using a locally owned business?

We believe that by using a locally owned

business, like Coastal Skylights, you receive a more personalised experience - for example, we offer free skylight consultations where we visit your home or space and provide customised solutions for natural light that fit the unique characteristics of your space.

Another advantage of using a locally owned business is accessibility to customers - we are accessible to our customers and offer ongoing support even after the project is completed - whether it’s maintenance, additional works or advice, Coastal Skylights can provide continued service tailored to the customer’s needs. By choosing a locally owned business, you also help support the local economy. The money spent stays in the community, creating jobs and boosting local businesses.

By investing in a skylight, people enhance both their living environment and their overall quality of life, making it a wise and worthwhile addition to any home or business.

both their living environment and their overall quality of life, making it a wise and worthwhile addition to any home or business.

What are the different types of skylights.

of the home throughout the year, venting out of the roof, protects insulation from moisture saturation, fights mould and fungal decay and removes steam and vapour from wet areas.

We are the local dealer for the two popular brands of skylights - Velux and Solatube both offering different natural lighting and ventilation products/solutions.

What are the reasons that people need to invest in a skylight.

Investing in a skylight offers many practical and aesthetic benefits that enhance both the functionality and appeal of a space. Some key reasons why people choose to install skylights are for the increased natural light which can boost productivity, improve mood and support mental wellbeing; and energy efficiency resulting in a decrease in electricity bills by reducing the need for artificial lighting due to increased natural light. Opening skylights can help improve ventilation by increasing airflow, reducing humidity and improving air quality in a space and are particularly beneficial in rooms prone to dampness, like kitchens and bathrooms, helping to prevent mold and mildew buildup ventilation. Another great reason to invest in a skylight is for the increase in property value as skylights are seen as more attractive to potential buyers - the addition of natural light and the improved aesthetics can enhance the marketability of a property, making it more appealing and potentially increasing its resale value. By investing in a skylight, people enhance

There are several types of skylights, each designed to meet specific needs in terms of function, aesthetics, and space. The most common types are glazed skylights, openable skylights and sun tunnels providing different advantages at varying price points.

Glazed skylights (VELUX) come in a wide range of sizes, and are available in fixed or opening (manual, electric or solar powered). The double glazing provides excellent thermal insulation. These skylights are best in larger areas where extra natural light is needed, and are excellent design features in a room.

Sun Tunnels (Solatube and VELUX) are small, tube-shaped skylights designed to bring light into small or tight spaces and are best suited for hallways and studies where space is limited, but natural light is desired. We stock the Solatube brand as they are considered the leading brand of this type of skylight due to their innovative technology of increased light output and heat protection.

Although not a skylight, Coastal Skylights also sell and install ventilators. Ventilators are popular as they drive heat and moisture out

Tell us about your showroom that people can visit to find out more.

We have a showroom at 10/48 Industrial Drive, North Boambee Valley where we have VELUX skylights on display so a potential customer can see the skylight installed both externally on a roof and internally in the ceiling space, we even have a solar opening VELUX skylight with a blind for customers to view opening and closing.

What do you love about the Coffs Coast?

We love where we live and work and we love the people here in Coffs Harbour and believe in the importance of contributing to our local community. Coffs Harbour is one of the most beautiful places in Australia and we want to bring the natural beauty indoors.

Book in a consultation with Coastal Skylights and we will provide you with the most suitable application for your building

Visit our showroom 10/48 Industrial Drive Coffs Harbour

admin@coastal-skylights.com.au

Kaitlyn 0417 322 375, Blair 0458 507 829

@coastal-skylights.com.au

TWe live in a beautif ace!

he Coffs Coast is celebrated for its breathtaking coastal views, vibrant communities, active lifestyle options, vast natural beauty, beautiful weather and a flourishing property market. In this picturesque region selling homes for premium prices demands a unique set of skills and attributes to ensure that both buyers and sellers receive an exceptional experience that exceed expectations. Here are some important qualities to consider when choosing an agent to market and sell your property:

1. Deep Local Market Knowledge

Success in the Coffs Coast real estate market hinges on a thorough understanding of the Coffs Coast’s property dynamics. Agents must be wellversed in local market trends, neighbourhood characteristics and the specific features that appeal to buyers in each area. Insight into property values and recent sales helps in setting accurate prices and crafting effective marketing strategies to attract as many buyers as possible.

2. Strong Communication Skills

Clear and effective communication is essential for guiding clients through the buying or selling process. Agents should be skilled in articulating market insights, addressing client concerns and maintaining transparent dialogue. Whether dealing with buyers, sellers or building and pest inspectors, strong communication fosters trust and facilitates smooth transactions.

3. Expert Negotiation Abilities

Negotiation is a critical skill for any real estate agent. Coffs Coast agents must adeptly negotiate terms and prices to secure favourable outcomes for their clients. Understanding local buyer behaviour and leveraging market knowledge

Property REPORT COFFS COAST

THE TOP 10 ATTRIBUTES OF A SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE AGENT ON THE COFFS COAST

can help in negotiating the best possible deal, ensuring both buyer and seller satisfaction.

4. Robust Local Networking

A well-established network is invaluable. Building and maintaining relationships with local professionals, potential buyers, and community leaders can provide valuable leads and insights. Active involvement in local events and organisations can enhance an agent’s visibility and reputation within the community.

5. Innovative Marketing Strategies

Effective marketing is crucial for showcasing properties on the Coffs Coast. Agents should employ creative marketing techniques, including high-quality photography, drone shots, videos, virtual tours and professional staging to highlight the unique features of each property. Leveraging local media, social platforms, and targeted advertising can help attract discerning buyers.

6. Client-Focused Service

Providing exceptional service is key to success in the Coffs Coast market. Agents should prioritise their clients’ needs and preferences, offering personalised advice and responsive communication. By understanding what clients value most, agents can deliver a tailored experience that exceeds expectations and fosters long-term relationships.

7. Attention to Detail

In the property market, every detail matters. Successful agents must be meticulous in managing all aspects of the transaction, from property presentation to contract negotiations and have an advanced skill set of technical competence. Ensuring that every detail is addressed helps prevent potential issues and contributes to a seamless and successful sale.

8. Integrity and Professionalism

Maintaining a high level of integrity and professionalism is essential in the Coffs Coast real estate market. High performing agents adhere to ethical standards, are transparent in their dealings and prioritise their clients’ best interests. Building a reputation for honesty and reliability leads to repeat business and valuable referrals.

9. Adaptability and Problem-Solving

Skills

The real estate landscape can be unpredictable, and challenges may arise unexpectedly. Successful agents on the Coffs Coast must be adaptable and proactive in addressing issues as they occur. Whether it’s handling last-minute changes or finding solutions to complex problems, an agent’s ability to remain resourceful and calm is crucial.

10. Passion for the Coffs Coast Lifestyle

A genuine passion for the Coffs Coast and its lifestyle can greatly benefit real estate agents and their ability to maximise the selling price of the homes they take to market. Enthusiasm for the region’s unique attributes, such as its beaches, outdoor activities, sporting and social clubs and community spirit, can resonate with clients and enhance an agent’s effectiveness. A love for the local area often translates into a more engaging and authentic client experience.

To be a high performing agent in the Coffs Coast real estate market requires a blend of local expertise, exceptional service and strong interpersonal skills in order to successfully navigate the complexities of property sales at all price points and deliver a highly professional experience that meets and exceeds the expectations of buyers and sellers alike.

with SHANE BROOKS FROM STONE REAL ESTATE COFFS HARBOUR contributor.

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