Coffs Coast Focus i35 by Focus

Feature F eature e Story Story

COFFS C OFFS C COAST OAST

August 2013// issue 35

Kenny K en nny M McCulloch cCullloch

editor's note.

Photo by: David Moore photography

focus C O F F S C OA S T

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editor.

from the

Melly Dee.

Welcome to the August issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

hen the weather becomes cooler, it’s very easy to get your hibernate-on. Not me. As a relative newcomer to town, it amazes me that there is just so much happening in the middle of winter! 2013 Coffs Cup Carnival is approaching, and we’re all excited to get behind this premier event. Park Beach Plaza and the Coffs Harbour Racing Club have kindly invited me to judge Fashions on Field. Wear your best dressed and enter! Lots of really great prizes to be won on the day! Let’s not forget the many great restaurants we are spoilt with and simply going out for dinner with

friends and family, enjoying winter menus and delicious warming vinos. See our Dining Guide or download our free EAT app on your smart phone for an up to date list of great local restaurant choices! ON THE COVER Do you recognise the couple on the cover? Scott and Jodie Mason both grew up here, attending Jetty High, and have been blessed with travelling international seas on luxury motor yachts, working with some of the wealthiest people on the planet. They recently got married in Italy and have decided to come home, as they have just welcomed their daughter, Valentina, into the world. They

couldn’t be happier to be back on the Coffs Coast! A massive thankkyou to photographer David Moore ore who shot our August cover http:// :// moorephotography.com.au/ FOCUS NEWS We have a new mascot: Nicci Seccombe’s brand new puppy, CHIP. For CHIP’s day by day baby dog ok. album, please like us on Facebook. FINAL SAY d “The best kind of love is the kind where you can sit on a sofa together and never say a word, and then walk away feeling like it was the best conversation you’ve ever had …” Author Unknown.

Melly Dee – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Twitter: @le_mellydee

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inside this

Issue 35 - August 2013 Kenny McCulloch.

Local legend Kenny McCulloch has a big heart for his family, surfing and his business – in that order! With a career that began as a garbo, Kenny turned a business opportunity into his passion: surfing! So, surf shop The Log Shack was born! Here is Kenny’s story.

Cargo Lane.

27.

Simon and Kerry: a duo who have turned their scrapbook ideas into a reality! They now own and run a furniture and gift store in Bellingen, where they have formed trading partnerships from Morocco and beyond. Here they share their experiences in international trade.

Marg White.

36.

Marg White is a successful business woman in the finance industry. Twelve months ago she had a serious injury and was unable to work. Now she is back at her desk determined to assist others from the very valuable lessons she learnt. Not many people stop to consider what would happen if they had an accident or got sick, but after reading Marg’s story, you just may!

7. Lauren Robertson 19. Yvonne Kiely 30. Kylie Walter 60. Orara Valley Axemen 64. Danielle Johnson

usual suspects.

the

6. what’s on for August 20. eat featuring local restaurants 44. social scene with Carole Beros

28. star guide with Terri 78. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast

No matter where you are in the world,, read Focus for free online every month th @

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on www.facebook.com/coffscoast.focus www.twitter.com/focusmag

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RD RE NORTH SAPP H I

H PACIFIC GAUDRO

NS RD

SPLIT SOLITA RY R

What’s on

New Winter MENU at The Surf Club Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is proud to announce a new winter menu. Head chef and owner Matt Donovan recently returned from the U.S. full of inspiration and has outdone himself with a delicious selection of new meals. Of course, there are some dishes he can’t take off the menu, like Matt’s Creamy Seafood Chowder and his Warm Thai Beef Salad. With the glorious winter sun shining most of the day onto the northern deck ... be there.

Small goods and preserving workshop

Where Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour. More info 6652 9870 web www.surfclubparkbeach.com

Includes: course notes, morning tea, lunch, laughter, story sharing and take home sausages made by you!

‘SPIRIT TAKING FORM’ Art by Yvonne Kiely

Where Nana Glen Hall When Sunday 4 August Cost $150 pp. More info 0413 050 428 or www.piginapickle.com.au

Sacred Lotus Bellydance Classes Celebrating life, beauty, diversity and dance. Woolgoolga and Toormina. All ages and abilities. Beginners welcome all year. Enquiries Kylie 0439 430 956. Web coffsharbourbellydance.com.au

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Cheesemaking workshop Cheesemaking workshop is now offering short courses. Tuesday night pasta and gnocchi and Friday night fetta. More info thecheesemakingworkshop.com.au Phone Lyndall 6656 2335.

Yvonne Kiely has had a passion for art since a young child. Based in Port Macquarie, she is an artist, a teacher and art therapist. Her exhibition SPIRIT TAKING FORM is at the Nexus Gallery, Old Butter Factory, Bellingen. When 23 August - 20 September 2013. Opening Sun 25 August, 3pm. Where Nexus Community Gallery, Old Butter Factory, Bellingen; opening hours 10am - 4.30pm More info 6655 9222.

focusinterview. Lauren Robertson is in the business of luxury weddings. A relative newcomer to town, it’s the beautiful beaches and amazing hinterland that drew Lauren to raise her family in her husband, Murray’s, home town.

Goodyear Autocare

Lauren Robertson

here are you originally from? When did you move here, and what brought you

ensure no small detail is missed as I guide couples through the endless to-do lists! When the wedding day finally arrives, I work behind the scenes to ensure everything goes to plan seamlessly while the to town? couple enjoys their celebration. I liaise with I was raised on the beautiful Northern my amazing suppliers, coordinate timings Beaches of Sydney. After meeting my and troubleshoot when things go awry. I am husband, Murray, a Coffs Harbour local, we busy, but LOVE every moment. moved here in 2007 to be closer to his son, Why do people travel to the Coffs Coast Jack, and other family. There’s no denying to get married? that the beautiful beaches, amazing The out-of-town couples whom I work hinterland and quality lifestyle were also a with (and their wedding guests) are blown massive drawcard. away by the area’s natural beauty which, What was your earlier career in of course, provides a beautiful backdrop Sydney? for their photos. They are also I started my career in surprised at the level of advertising, where I worked creativity, talent and in exposure marketing on professionalism of product launches and the top people More than 90 publicity stunts. From in our wedding per cent of my there I moved to the industry. Being a om fr weddings come ch hi not-for-profit sector. regional area, it’s w , out of the area y sl ou m or My last role in Sydney also substantially en contri butes ” y. om on ec was managing the l more affordable. ca to the lo NSW event calendar for A personalised the Starlight Children’s wedding, with a Foundation. The highlight dedicated wedding was organising the high-profile planner, at an exclusive Five Chefs Dinner; we raised more property, often costs much than two million dollars for the charity over less than celebrations in a capital city. three years. What do you love about being a part of For those who aren’t familiar with your people’s special day? current day job tell us about your work I pinch myself, as I can’t believe this now? is actually my day job! A wedding day is My business is called North Coast Luxury filled with expectation, nerves, excitement, Weddings, and I’m proud to say it has romance and a million details. I love being been selected by three luxury properties able to reduce the stress, help couples relax (Marlowe House, Orara Valley Estate and and simply be a guest at their own party. Villa Vivante), as their exclusive wedding I am privileged to witness some of the planner. I work with couples to create their secret moments that unfold … handing the dream wedding, with personalised ideas, groom a note from his bride, the father’s unique touches and surprise moments. I face when he first sees his daughter in her

“

gorgeous gown and the overwhelming emotion as she waits to walk down the aisle. By far, my favourite moment is seeing the groom’s face when he first glimpses his bride as she walks down the aisle. So are you a romantic at heart? Tell us about your own wedding to Murray. I am a romantic at heart, and our wedding was a reflection of us: an intimate celebration with our closest family and friends. Our ceremony was held by the water at Sydney’s Palm Beach. Then, guests were taken by ferry to Pearl’s on the Beach, a gorgeous beachfront restaurant on the Central Coast, for a sumptuous lunch. Seven years on, we wouldn’t change a thing. What current projects are you working on? I’ve just coordinated a collaborative styling shoot with some of the East Coast’s most creative wedding professionals. Held at Marlowe House, all my suppliers provided their styling talents and gorgeous wedding products, such as stationery and a candy buffet. We even featured models in stunning Collette Dinnigan gowns. These photos will soon be featured in magazines that showcase cutting-edge wedding design. Another project I am incredibly passionate about is promoting the Coffs Coast as a wedding tourism destination. More than 90 per cent of my weddings come from out of the area, which contributes enormously to the local economy. Destination weddings bring with them an average of 75 guests that stay, eat and play on the Coffs Coast. There is massive potential for growth, and I am working with our local suppliers to ensure this continues to be a burgeoning and thriving industry for the area. Thanks Lauren.

Local Rally ace Nathan Quinn (NQ) acquired Goodyear Auto care in Coffs Harbour nine months ago and says just like his rallying, success is “ALL ABOUT THE PASSION”. NQ: I can’t remember who it was that said it, but I always remember being told that to be successful and happy, to get a job doing what it is that you love doing. As much as most people would think that rallying is my passion, and it is, I have learned that my true passion is giving 100% to what I do, and that’s why I’ve been successful with rallying and now Goodyear Autocare. I love working on customers’ cars as much as I like working on my own, and it’s great being able to take complete control of the outcomes at our shop by ensuring that our customer service and workplace quality are second to none. So after nine months, what would you say has been the biggest change in the business? NQ: All our staff are mechanics now, and we are becoming very much known as a high end SUV service outlet, as much as we are known as a specialist tyre store. The response to the SUV Specialty Centre market has been overwhelming and we are getting lauded by our customer base, old and new, all the time. It’s great; our customers tell us that they love the attention to detail and the extra care we give, as much as they love knowing that we understand their SUV. So if you’ve got an SUV in need of service or tyres, give Nathan a call at Goodyear and have a chat.

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K e n n y

8 coff off ffs coast coa co coa oast astt fo focus ffoc oc o cu uss

M c C u l l o c h

“ L i f e

i s

b e t t e r

w h e n

y o u ’ r e

s u r f i n g ! ”

Local legend Kenny McCulloch has a big heart for his family, surfing and his business - in that order! With a career that began as a garbo, Kenny turned a business opportunity into his passion: surfing! So, surf shop The Log Shack was born! Here is Kenny’s story.

here are you Denise is a really hard worker. As well as raising the originally from? Why kids and being a wife, she also had a long career and when did you in our local newspapers – both the Advocate and originally come to Independent, working in the classifieds departments Coffs Harbour? I’ve for years. She is a great wife. A real gem. been coming to Coffs Tell us about Ben and Kate ... Both of my kids H Harbour since before I can remember! My parents are real softies. Ben is my eldest; he is 31. A h had a holiday house here, and some of my earliest non-drinking, hard training, big hearted bloke! m memories are of coming up from Sydney every He is a boxer and was a contestant on The o opportunity we could. Dad had a Contender; that’s a reality television re removalist business; he had a show based on boxing. He is ccareer of driving up and also competing here in Coffs d down the coast. Guess he Harbour on 17 August, ju just loved Coffs Harbour defending his Super Yes , I’m st ill aand used to bring us Middleweight IBF Title. 6 3 in u up here! Dad was co mp et in g. I’m e My daughter, Kate, th ere ar a keen fisherman. Novem b er, b ut lives in Sydney. She I r th at W We’d get in the five events a y ea ar t o f. recently just started ap LLand Rover, Dad li ke to tr y to b e a new job as a L ogg er w would fish, and I’d T h e n ext o n e is d in veterinary nurse. She ea ssurf. H ea d s, Sc o tt s H loves animals; she has go d ow n ll e’ W . W What type of career Novem b er a big heart. She used d ay s. ” d did you have in th ere fo r a few to work at a Council run y your early life? When pound. When the animals I was 15, I started a motor were going to get put down, m mechanic apprenticeship. Back she would ask her friends in the day, apprenticeships were to adopt the animals for 9 or 10 five years. After that, I did various casual days and then have her friends return jo jobs. Before I was married, I had a stint on the Gold the pets to buy them more time alive. She had to C Coast. Back in the day you could pick up a couple of quit that job. She is such a soft hearted girl – she d days’ labouring to pay the rent. I spent a lot of time couldn’t handle it (laughs). ssurfing during those days. My kids have brought Denise and I lots of happiness. Y Your wife, Denise ... Denise is a wonderful wife. They’re both great kids! W We’ve been married for 33 years. We met in Sydney, Do you compete in surfing competitions still? w when we were both working at a Club. The best Yes, I’m still competing. I’m 63 in November, but th thing about Denise is that she is an absolute gem there are five events a year that I like to try to be a o of a wife! She is such a great mother to our two part of. The next one is Logger Heads, Scotts Head, cchildren, Ben and Kate. Thirty three years is a long in November. We’ll go down there for a few days. ti time, and she has always stuck by me ...

“

East Coast Challenger; Byron Bay Single Fins State Titles, if work permits; and Crescent Heads Classic is another one I like to get too. Do you teach surfing? No, not really. Oh, I’ll offer tips and advice if someone needs a hand. Where in your opinion is the best place in Coffs Harbour to surf? I like Diggers Beach. It’s a good older male rider, user friendly beach. How was the Log Shack born? I worked at Handy Bin Waste for years ... started off as a garbo and then was the Transport Manager for ten years. The three Councils eventually collaborated, and the workload tripled as well! It was a concern – constant phone calls; I felt like I was working 24/7. Surfing is my real passion, and as a kid I always wanted to have a surf shop of my own. A mate, my now business partner, had a surf shop selling longboards in Woolgoolga and when the opportunity arose for us to open up here in Coffs, I jumped at the chance! We opened the shop 8 years ago, and we’ve always been really busy. I like to be busy all the time. If I’m standing still, I’m bored. So when I’m at the shop I get to talk to people about surfing; I enjoy 'selling', and since the start we’ve had great local support. But in the current climate, everywhere in Coffs is a bit slow in the retail game, so we’re just working through that. Is retirement on the cards? (Laughs). Not sure if Denise would agree to that just yet. Might try to sell the premises at some stage. In my spare time I like walking the dog. Obviously surfing. In winter I open the shop at 10am, so I try to go for a surf before work. In the warmer months I try to get out before and after work if the weather permits! Life's better when you have a surf! Thanks Kenny.

coffs coast focus 9

focusinterview.

Camp Quality Camp Quality is the children’s cancer charity. Our purpose is to create a better life for every child living with cancer in Australia.

Your Heading Here!

The services we provide for children (0 – 13 years) living with cancer and their families help create a better life by building optimism and resilience. We support families no matter where they live in Australia, throughout each stage of their cancer journey. Our programs are devised to meet the identified needs of families who have a child living with cancer. We connect children and their families living with cancer through interactive education and resources and create opportunities for all families to embrace normality and celebrate life in a supportive environment. At Camp Quality, our camps provide children living with cancer and their families with an essential break from hospital, stress and intensity. They are especially designed to encourage strength, confidence and independence. By supporting community events such as the Coastal Landscapes competition, you will be helping to create a better life for every child living with cancer. Contact details: Ph - (02) 6651 4486 www.campquality.org.au

OzPrintShop, in conjunction with Sawtell Framing & Beachscapes Gallery, is running a Coastal Landscapes photography competition with an opening exhibition at Beachscapes Gallery, the intention of raising funds for Camp Quality.

hat is the Coastal Landscapes photography competition? And how was the idea born? It is an exciting new photography competition that I (Ryan) and Ray Meyer from OzPrint Shop are organising. As the owner of Sawtell Picture Framing and Beachscapes Gallery, I have wanted to hold a photography competition for some time now to encourage local talent. After throwing around ideas with Ray, we thought the Beachscapes Gallery would be the perfect venue to host a coastal landscape photography competition. My wife and I have also supported and fundraised for the local Camp Quality office for a few years now, so we decided to combine the competition with a fundraising aspect. In this competition we are asking photographers to enter a coastal image they’ve shot, whether somewhere along the Coffs Coast or even the frozen coastline of the Antarctic. We have four local professional photographers on board to judge the entries, and there is a division for everyone. Where and when is it? The competition is open now and will run until Friday 9 August. All entries will be professionally printed and mounted and will be on display at our opening night – Friday 23 August, where we will announce the winners. All of the entries will be available for sale to the public. Who can enter? What are the divisions? Entries are open to anyone, anywhere. We have three major categories: Experienced/ Professional; Amateur; and an Under 16 division for the young photographers. We also have a people’s choice award, so the

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local community can cast a vote for their favourite. And what is the winner’s prize? The winner of each division will receive a cash prize, as well as a beautifully framed 16” x 24” print of their winning entry. There are photographic workshop prizes on offer from two of our judges, Tom Woods and Rob Cleary, as well as printing and framing vouchers. Parry’s Jewellers in Coffs Harbour has been very generous in donating a lovely prize for the people’s choice award. How much does it cost to enter, and where does the entry money go? The cost is $20 per entry, with a limit of 2 entries per person. Ray and I are printing and mounting all the images for display at our own cost. All the prints on the night will be for sale at a cost of $55, and all profits from the competition are being donated to Camp Quality. The theme for the entries is obviously Coastal Landscapes. How did the idea for this theme come about? We live in a beautiful part of the world with stunning coastal images, and obviously with my Beachscapes Gallery I love to promote this locally so a coastal landscapes theme was a nice fit. Who are the judges? We are very excited to have four highly experienced professional photographers on board to judge the entries. Our judges are all local to the Coffs Harbour area and include Tom Woods from ST Images – a commercial photographer who also spends a lot of time shooting on the beach and in the surf. Steve Young from Steve Young Photography – a commercial photographer who is

also known for producing beautiful fine art landscapes. Rob Cleary from Seen Australia – he brings a wealth of knowledge and talent to our judging panel with his photographic experience, which includes landscape photography. Our youngest professional judge is Drew Hopper from Drew Hopper Photography – at age 24 he is a very talented landscape photographer, with work published around the globe. Our judging panel will be judging images based on 3 key points, being composition, technical, and use of lighting. It will be a blind judging system, so that the name of each entry is not known to the judges. If we're interested, how can we get involved? Submit your entries online now. Go to www.beachscapes.com.au and click on the link to 'photo competition'. I can also be contacted at Sawtell Framing and Beachscapes Gallery on (02) 6658 2599. Regular news and updates can also be found on our Facebook page. Can anyone attend the exhibition and how long will the works be exhibited? The exhibition opening night is open to all to attend. The photographic display will also be open to public viewing for two weeks following the night. Thanks Ryan.

the plug!

Where: Beachscapes Gallery, Cnr Hulberts Rd and Newcastle Dr, Toormina When: 23 August from 6pm. Contact: 6658 2599 Entries: www.beachscapes.com.au

Buying a home, or renovating your existing home is a unique experience, and for many Australians it’s the ‘Great Australian Dream’. It’s something you work hard for, dream about, and strive towards.

The ‘Great Au strali an Dream ’ . t may not be just a financial transaction – your home can be a reflection of who you are, and how you choose to live your life. It can be about your family, your friends, your work and your leisure time. According to a national survey of consumers1 undertaken in late 2012, it seems that for a lot of people, this is top of mind right now. One in 15 Australians are actively planning for the purchase of their first home, while one in five plan on renovating their existing home in the near future. A home purchase or a renovation can be a highly emotional exercise. Often it’s the biggest purchase you will ever make. There’s so much to be aware of when you are purchasing your home, and making sure that your finances are sorted is critical in helping to ensure that the process is a smooth one. “One of the first things I would recommend is that if you are thinking of buying a property, come in and speak with a specialist at your local branch as soon as possible,” says Bruce Fisher, ANZ Branch Manager in Coffs Harbour. “Often, people who have dreams of owning their own home or investment property put off seeing their local bank because they are unsure if they are ready, don’t

have a deposit, or don’t have confidence that they will be Approval In Principle2, and options you may have for a deposit solution, so you can be ready to act when the able to borrow the amount they feel they need. right property comes along. “So it’s great if people can come in to see us early on In addition, ANZ has been recognised by Money in the process and we can do an A-Z Review® where Magazine as Australia’s Home Lender of we run through the customer’s circumstances the Year in 20123, the twelfth time and understand what their goals are. This ANZ has won the award since 1999. enables us to provide them with an I feel proud This could make the choice easier understanding on what stage they that ANZ is for customers, knowing that are at, and what they could do to be e th h equipped witd tools independent experts have done all ready for the next stage – helping an resources to ve gi n the hard work reviewing hundreds them plan and then helping them ca I that and s, er om st cu r of lenders and home loans in the achieve these goals.” ou elp that we can hom market. ANZ has a range of tools and e make their h ams “At the end of the day, I feel resources that can help make the re d ownership proud that ANZ is equipped with home buying process easier and less ” e. u tr come the resources and tools that I can give daunting. As a starting point, ANZ has to our customers, and that we can help a great range of online calculators that make their home ownership dreams come can help you work out how much you could true,” says Bruce. borrow, what your repayments might be and get an Contact Bruce Fisher, ANZ Coffs Harbour, understanding of the costs associated with buying a 6652 0388; Brett Parnell, Home and Investment home. Lending Manager, 0435 963 709; Stuart Willman ANZ Then, as a next step, ANZ could help you to be ‘Buy Toormina, 0498 578 568. ReadyTM’ with access to free ANZ Property Profiles,

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1. Australia’s Money Confidence 2013 – The State of the Nation Report by ANZ and Pacific Magazines. Australia’s Money Confidence Survey ran online from 1 October to 24 November 2012, capturing detailed feedback from 11,957 Australians aged 18 and over. 2. To obtain an Approval-In-Principle you must apply and be approved for an ANZ Home Loan. An Approval-In-Principle is an approval for a loan subject to the security being adequate. 3. Money magazine Home Lender of the Year Award 2012, 2010, 2008, 2007, 2006 and 2005, and AFR Smart Investor Magazine Home Lender of the Year Award 2005, 2004, 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999 and 2012.. Australian Lending Awards, Mortgage Lender of the Year Award 2011 and Best Investor Lender Award 2011 and 2012. The Australian Lending Awards is an independent initiative of The Adviser and specialist research and advisory firm RFI. ANZ’s Home Loan range achieved 5 stars across all of CANSTAR’s mortgage rating profiles. All applications for credit are subject to ANZ’s normal credit approval criteria. Terms and conditions, fees and charges apply. Australia and New Zealand Banking Group limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522. Australian Credit Licence Number 234527. ANZ’s colour blue is a trade mark of ANZ. TMBuy Ready is a trade mark of ANZ. ®A-Z Review is a registered trademark of ANZ

Australia’s most awarded home lender. Finding the home loan that’s right for you can be easy when you choose Australia’s most awarded home lender. Independent experts have named us Home Lender of the Year

12 times in the past 15 years, for our great rates and flexible features. So you can feel confident you’ve made the right choice. Talk to an ANZ home loan specialist today.

Brett Parnell Home and Investment Lending Manager ANZ Coffs Harbour 0435 963 709 Stuart Willman Branch Manager ANZ Toormina 0498 578 568

Over the past 15 years, ANZ has been awarded ‘Home Lender of the Year’ by Money magazine in 2012, 2010 and 2008-2005, and Personal Investor magazine in 2005, 2004 and 2002-1999. All applications for credit are subject to ANZ’s normal credit approval criteria. Australia and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (ANZ) ABN 11 005 357 522. Australian Credit Licence Number 234527. ANZ’s colour blue is a trade mark of ANZ. Item No. 88887 07.2013 W353324

coffs coast focus 11

A Colourful Program There’s a colourful program of shows at the Jetty Theatre this month and plenty of reasons to be cheerful. The Historical Documentary Film Evening on Friday 2 August brings to life fascinating footage from the Coffs historical archives. Local interviews and tales of bygone days have been crafted into documentaries by long standing local and former ABC radio producer Graham Bell. All proceeds go to Coffs Harbour High School 75th Anniversary Building Projects. For three nights from Wednesday 14 August, Coffs Harbour High School presents an original work, Garlambirla, telling the creation stories of Coffs Harbour's major landmarks from Red Rock to Nambucca and out to Mt Coramba, featuring traditional and contemporary dance and live music. The second annual Sunday Soundscapes Concert Series from Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium & Arts NSW brings heavenly sounds to the theatre on Sunday 18th with SHE – Seven Harp Ensemble. SHE will perform a broad repertoire of music, including Australian works specially commissioned by the ensemble. August comes to a shaking, quaking musical close as Coffs Harbour Arts Council presents the high energy, fun, upbeat musical feast All Shook Up, a new musical comedy built around much-loved hits made famous by Elvis Presley. Enjoy some of the fun this month; visit www.jettytheatre.com now for further details.

HISTORIC FILM NIGHT Friday 2nd August 6pm

An evening of documentary film covering the history of Coffs Harbour’s development.

FIRST POSITION

Sunday 11th August 1pm A fundraising night for the Coffs Harbour Eisteddfod. Come and see this acclaimed film and support the local dance community.

GARLAMBIRLA Wed 14th - Sat 17th August Coffs Harbour High School presents Garlambirla, an original work written in consultation with Aboriginal local Gumbaynggirr elders and community members.

SHE (SEVEN HARP ENSEMBLE) Sunday 18th August 2pm

CCoffs off Harbour Regional Conservatorium & AArts rts NSW present Sunday Soundscapes # 2. Also ffeaturing a workshop after the concert.

ALL SHOOK UP

Sat 24th Aug -Sun 8th Sept All Shook Up is a new musical comedy featuring a number of songs made famous by Elvis Presley. Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon - 4pm jettytheatre.com | 02 6652 8088 facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au 337 Harbour Drive 12 coffs coast focus.

Proudly supported by

jetty memorial theatre

SEASON 2013

Giant Media Am I NBN Ready? Yes If you live in the Coffs Harbour area, you can apply for the NBN now. Can Klaustel Phones and Data organise my NBN? YES - At Klaustel we can organise your internet and phone services, with a competitive price to suit your needs. For my business with the NBN, do I need an IP phone system? NO - There is no need to spend unnecessary money on new phone equipment. Take advantage of what the NBN has to offer. Can I save money on line rental through the NBN? YES - At Klaustel Phones and Data, we utilise the NBN network to deliver cost effective telephone and internet services. What are the benefits of using Klaustel Phones and Data? Being a small local family business ourselves, we understand what is important for your business. As your local partner for over 15 years we can deliver a full range of telecommunication services to suit your business needs.

How does your website look on a mobile device? Recent statistics already show on average 20% to 35% of visitors to your site are on a mobile or tablet device. As mobile browsing becomes increasingly popular, there is a need to have websites that adapt to the device that your client is browsing on so that they get the same user experience on any device, be it a Full HD monitor, iPhone, Android phone or any of the tablets available on the market – each with different screen resolutions. Giant Media is now using Responsive Grid Technology, which allows your website content and layout to adjust to fit any device browser perfectly. Clients get the exact same content and functionality on their mobile or tablet as on their home computer. This is achieved through clever use of proportionbased CSS grid systems and flexible content. Instead of paying for an uninformative, stripped down mobile website which can be frustrating for users and cause unnecessary redirecting away from your full website content, get one website that works and looks great on every device. To see an example of a Responsive Grid Website, just visit www.giantmedia.com.au on any of your devices!

Toast Urunga What: Toast Urunga. Music, Food & Wine Festival. When: Sunday 1 September 2013, 10am - 4pm. Where: Morgo Street Reserve, Urunga, Coffs Coast. Cost: $5 donation; accompanied children under 12 free. For a relaxing day of good, fresh food, regional wines, great music and cooking demonstrations in a picturesque outdoor setting where the Bellinger and Kalang rivers meet the sea, make sure you put Sunday 1st September in your diary. The festival on Sunday 1 September runs from 10am to 4pm and will feature more than 60 stalls selling a diverse range of cuisines, local produce, wines and boutique

beers. Whilst adults enjoy music, wine and food, kids have their own entertainment with a jumping castle, sand wizardry, trampoline bungy jumping, plaster painting and face painting. Around the town the local shops are open, craft tables are set up around the streets and vintage cars are on display. Bring: Chair/rug to sit on. Please donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bring: pets, alcohol, picnic baskets. For more information about the event, contact Jan Baker on 0409 817 864 or visit www.urunga.com.au For information about accommodation or about other events and activities on the Coffs Coast, contact the Bellingen Shire Visitor Information Centre on (02) 6655 5711.

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Local couple Scott and Jodie Mason have been blessed with travelling the seas on luxury motor yachts working with some of the wealthiest people on the planet. They recently got married in Italy and have decided to come home, as they have just welcomed their daughter, Valentina, into the world. They couldn’t be happier to be back on the Coffs Coast!

“

Around September we will go into the shipyard for repairs, usually Barcelona or Gibraltar, then cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean for a few months.”

re you guys originally from Coffs Harbour? When and where did you meet? Jodie and I both grew up in Coffs. We went to the same school, Jetty High, but she was three years below me. We knew each other then, but didn’t meet again until a few years later. Was it love at first sight? (Laughs). Jodie will tell you it was for me. I was working away and came home for holidays. We met again for the first time in years and hung out while I was back. I went back to work, quit my job and came home for four weeks later to see her, so yeah ... I guess it was love at first sight! So when you both finished school, what careers did you undertake? When I left I went to university and then went on to work in the commercial pearling industry in the top end of Australia. Jodie was living in Sydney and working as a dental nurse by day and running a restaurant by night. And then you both decided to move to Europe together?

coffs coast focus.

We had both talked about travelling the world together, but also wanted to continue a career; the private motor yacht industry ticked all the boxes. Europe, particularly the South of France, is the central hub, so that was first stop on our travels. How did you get into motor yachts? Did you both actively set out to work on yachts, or was it something you fell in to? I had a commercial marine background and actually took Jodes to do a season in the Coburg Peninsula. We travelled through the top of Australia then right down the West Australian coast. The Kimberley is such an amazing place and truly is one of the most special places in the world. We then decided to branch out into the private and charter industry, so headed for Europe. We were both working within a month or so. You've had such fortunate experiences. What is life like living on the seas? Talk us through some highs and lows … We consider ourselves very, very fortunate. We have been lucky enough to travel all over the world and see places that for many are inaccessible by land. Life at sea can be challenging, especially on long Atlantic crossings,

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Life is completely different. Jodie and I are a lot more settled now. We are really enjoying being parents, having a home and the company of our families.”

We consider , very ourselves very be ve en fortunate. We ha avel all tr lucky enough to d see an ld or w e th over many are places that for land .” by inaccessible

“

but waking up to an amazing sunrise every morning always helps. We have seen so many sides to life, from remote Africa and deep in the Amazon to the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean and the fast pace of summer in Monaco and the South of France. The highs far outweigh the lows, but one thing we miss constantly are our family and friends at home. Jodie and I both have a lot of family in Coffs which is great, as we normally only make it home for a few weeks each year. How many years were you over there – talk us through what a 'season' looks like … We have been over for nearly 10 years. A season is a funny thing on the yachts. We normally spend summer in Europe and winter in the Caribbean and the States. A season all depends on the boat. For Jodie and I, we spent our first six or seven years on very busy charter yachts, so from April through to September it's go, go, go. We normally start with the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix, then branch off down to Corsica, Sardinia, Italy, Greece etc. depending on the charter. France is normally home base, so we return in between charters. Around September we will go into the shipyard for repairs, usually Barcelona or Gibraltar, then cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean for a few months. Around February we will head to the States, normally Miami and spend a month or two there before crossing back. The last few years have been a little more relaxed. We have been running a 156 ft new build motor yacht owned by the Shipyard. This has been a display boat for sale, which has allowed us to spend a lot of time in Italy and lead a less hectic life. We took a long trip through Africa, then back up through Spain and finally took the boat through its sale around Christmas this year. Do you have any funny experiences you'd like to share from your time on the yachts? Wow, there were so many. We have been lucky enough to have a lot of high profile celebrities throughout our

time. When you combine unlimited money, some crazy, crazy people, paparazzi and all night parties, things always happen. Unfortunately, one thing that has served us well through our time, and let us get so far, is to be able to keep what happens on the boat, stay on the boat. One that does stick in my mind is we had a very famous Hollywood actor on board. We were off the coast of St Tropez, and around 4am he asked me to drive him up to the Casino in Cannes. He had a large suitcase with him. As he stepped of the tender, he asked me if I was a red or black man. I instinctively said I always bet red. He was back in about 15 minutes, and we drove back out to the boat. About halfway out, he turned to me and said, “Scotty, I sure wish you were more of a black man”. I later found out he had what most people would spend on a house in that suitcase. I have seen him over the years, but neither of us mentioned it again! So what brought you both back home to Coffs Coast? The arrival of our beautiful baby daughter, Valentina. We got married last year in Italy and decided we would try for a family. We had made the decision we would come home for the last six months and first six months of her arrival, so we could have this experience with our families. It has been the most amazing time of our lives, and we feel very lucky to be blessed with this perfect little baby girl. How is life different prior to leaving back in 2004? Life is completely different. Jodie and I are a lot more settled now. We are really enjoying being parents, having a home and the company of our families. Coffs is such a beautiful place, and we really are lucky to live in this part of the world. And on mention of your name in town, the first thing people refer to is 'Volkswagen'. Talk us through your passion for all things VW. Unfortunately, that was passed on through my father.

He has always been into classic Volkswagens, particularly split window Kombis, so I really didn’t stand a chance. I have a 1957 bus that is an old butcher's van from Inverell. A small group of my closest friends are all into them. They are restored to show condition underneath and mechanically, but left in their original state outside ... definitely an acquired taste, but it puts a smile on people's faces. I have dragged Jodie to Volkswagen shows all over the world, so I do feel a little sorry for her. What's in store for the next two, five, ten years? For the short term, we are enjoying being home. We are involved in a few projects that will hopefully keep us in the country. I have been working locally and love being able to come home to my girls of an afternoon. I will eventually return to the industry, but in a less committed role – deliveries and short term charters. We have talked about moving back to Europe or the States, so time will tell. We really do live in an amazing part of the world, but that’s not to say Valentina won’t be getting a passport very soon ... it's in her blood. Thanks Scott and Jodie.

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focusinterview.

focuseditorial.

meet a

local. Meet Barry Hockey from Barry Hockey Accountants

AUSTRALIA

hat is your business, and how long have you been in operation? The business is an Accounting and Taxation firm established in 2001, serving the local community for 12 years. What services does your practice offer?? Accounting and taxation specialists, including all types of tax returns for including our friendly, efficient team businesses and individuals. We and contact details. also offer tax planning, strategic “ I play guitar What are your other interests planning, cash flow planning in a local band outside of BHA? and assistance in other areas Music, rugby and family. I such as aged care financial called Forward play guitar in a local band called advice, business loan proposals Groove. ” Forward Groove. I am also involved and business planning. with Coffs Rugby as team manager. You’ve recently moved When I am not doing either of those premises. What does your new activities, I just enjoy spending time with space mean for your clients? family and friends. The new premises are a modern ground floor How can we contact you? location and comply with the new building codes Our phone number is 6651 9655 and our for disabled access and convenience. Apart from website www.barryhockey.com.au our new location, everything remains the same,

ally Australia will be back in Coffs Harbour in 2013. Once again we are calling for officials to help run a smooth and successful event. We would like to extend an invitation to all to officiate at Rally Australia’s round of the World Rally Championship in September 2013; no previous experience is needed, and anyone is welcome! Events such as this do not happen unless we have the cooperation and assistance of dedicated officials. Officials not only help run events, but also are vital to providing a welcoming atmosphere, showcasing their country and their region and sending visitors home with good impressions. Not only do you see the action up close and personal, you become part of a team that appreciates the hard work you put

in. All Rally Australia officials will receive a goodies bag which includes merchandise, free drinks vouchers, discounted dinner voucher and much more. There will also be an after party in which all officials will be welcome, and there may be a chance to kick back, relax and possibly meet the WRC drivers. Get involved and meet some new people! You can complete a registration form at www.rallyaustralia.com.au/officials If you have friends or family members who would like to participate, please have them complete a registration form also and enjoy the event as a group. If you have any questions regarding becoming an official for Rally Australia, please do not hesitate to contact Rally Australia to discuss further at services@rallyaustralia.com.au

focuseditorial. with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO AT ’ S I N WH

POLENTA

While it's still chilly and we crave hearty meals, but the prospect of spring is around the corner, our dinner plates crave light yet substantial ingredients. Nothing matches that description like polenta. Modern polenta is generally derived from corn, or maize as it is sometimes called, but if the word polenta (Italian) is taken to its literal translation, it could be taken as the crushed kernel of any grain. Prior to the 16th Century, corn hadn't reached Europe and polenta was generally created from barley (now known as barley meal).

In Season

Polenta has an undeserving reputation of being hard to cook into a tasty and palatable dish, but one very simple technique can solve this. Bring a liquid (milk, water, stock or juice) to the boil with seasonings and an oil or fat (olive oil, butter or whatever takes your fancy). While it rapidly boils, vigorously whisk a sprinkle of polenta at a time until you have something that resembles a custard consistency (great arm workout). No more lumps. Then serve as is, bake it or once it has cooled, fry it. Versatile. Tasty. Quick. Easy. Enjoy. To continue reading about unique ingredients, including a few useful tips and recipes, visit my blog on the Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar website: www.zuluscoffs.com

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lose to historic Anglican and Catholic churches and just a stone’s throw from Town Beach, Mercure Centro hotel is ideally located offering luxury accommodation and premium reception facilities, making it the perfect venue for any style of wedding celebration. As Port Macquarie’s newest hotel, the spacious function rooms present a sleek and contemporary setting and provide a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The Waterline function room gives guests the option to rendezvous inside or celebrate alfresco out on the terrace. Alternatively, you may choose to astonish your guests with our rooftop setting. This breathtaking space offers panoramic city and water views and provides a stunning backdrop for your photography. The Mercure Centro rooftop reception room offers a venue that is different to the traditional style, with indoor/outdoor areas which are fully air conditioned for both heating and cooling. Once a reception booking has been confirmed, the bride-to-be will be assigned a dedicated wedding venue coordinator to ensure that they have professional help at their finger tips. Our wedding packages are designed to assist you in creating the perfect wedding. We are also able to tailor our packages to suit your requirements, whether cocktail style, banquet or buffet, and we have the desire and ability to meet your personal style and wishes. We also offer a Wedding Ceremony facility in case the plug! of inclement weather, or just because you like it best! www.centrohotel.com.au A Mercure Centro wedding – limited only by your events@centrohotel.com.au imagination!

A MERCURE CENTRO WEDDING – LIMITED ONLY BY YOUR IMAGINATION!

(02) 6583 0830

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FIRST CHOICE M E D I A

hat is First Choice Media? We are a small team of talented graphic designers and developers that create affordable, high quality websites, search engine optimization and company brand development. Our website is firstchoicemedia.com.au Where are you from, and what is your background? I’m originally from Newcastle. Newcastle is where I developed my web and design skills. I ran a large website down there that consisted of surf reports, eating out guides, fashion, fuel prices and much more. One of the most recent sites is Newcastle Gig Guide. After months of research and development, the site is now first on Google and helps promote some of the best bands in the world. You can visit Newcastle Gig Guide here: www.newcastlegigguide.com.au Tell us about your websites that are $380? We have created an impressive range of professional website templates that are easy to use and update. Each site has a high-end designer look, yet is created with a simple interface a a powerful content editor. You can add, edit and delete and co content via a secure username and password. It is very easy to add a photo gallery, YouTube video, Facebook like button

John Kidd originally developed his web and design skills in Newcastle. Now, John explains how First Choice Media can help clients create a high-end, designer look website that is simple and easy to use – without the expensive price tag!

or a simple image once set up. First Choice Media wants to simplify the process of getting a professional website online, without the huge price tag. We will initially put your site together for you and include your content to match your company’s brand and make any adjustments needed. Search engine optimization, domain name and hosting are also included. If you’re interested I am more than happy to come and show you just how easy your site will be to manage, and some of the benefits for your business. Are they user friendly, and who can buy these sites? You can easily change your content right from your web browser. When you see something you want to change, simply click edit and make your changes. It's that easy! Anybody or any business can buy these sites! It's up to you how big or small you want your site to be. We will hold your hand through the whole process. What do you love about the Coffs Coast? The people, the surfing, the wonderful landscape, the weather! Honestly, living in Coffs Harbour is like being on a constant holiday.

Armidale's Hidden Gem Retreat to Armidale in the New England region for a truly evocative and unique winter experience. At an elevation of almost 1000 metres above sea level, Armidale is Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s highest city and features exquisite galleries, museums, historical homes, churches, fine food and cool climate wines. The region also boasts World Heritage Listed National Parks, spectacular waterfalls and gorges and a myriad of outdoor adventures. The Quality Hotel Powerhouse, Armidale offers a Winter Retreat package for two with overnight accommodation, sparkling wine and chocolates, two course dinner, breakfast and late checkout. This exclusive offer provides the perfect excuse for a short break or special weekend together. The Powerhouse is conveniently located within walking distance to the town centre and recently completed a three year, multi-million dollar refurbishment program. The 4.5 star hotel includes 55 designer hotel rooms, Azka

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Restaurant and a Wine and Tapas Bar. Each room contains wireless internet access, plasma TV, ipod docking station, underfloor heating, MOR amenities and 24 hour room service. As part of your package enjoy a cosmopolitan dining experience at the new Azka Restaurant which celebrates Mediterranean flavours and regional produce in a space adorned by Moroccan hanging lanterns. Escape to the intimate downstairs Wine and Tapas Bar and relax in one of the leather lounges surrounded by dozens of great drops or adjacent to the welcoming open fire. Discover the best wine list in town and a tempting selection of tapas dishes ideal for social dining. The Quality Hotel Powerhouse offers the highest standard of professional service, exceptional food and stylish accommodation in the Armidale region. Visit www.qualityhotelpowerhouse.com.au or call 6772 7788.

focusinterview.

YVONNE KIELY

Artist Profile.

Yvonne Kiely has had a passion with art since a young child. Based in Port Macquarie, she is an artist, a teacher and art therapist. Her exhibition ‘SPIRIT TAKING FORM’ is at the Nexus Gallery, Old Butter Factory, Bellingen.

here are you from and what brings you to North Coast? Originally from Kilkenny in Ireland, I married an Australian and migrated to Sydney in 1982. After eight years of city life and working as a textile designer in the rag trade we moved to Port Macquarie in 1990 where I could explore my art practice in a more relaxed manner. How did you first develop an interest in art? My first memories of becoming totally immersed in drawing was at primary school when I would spend my class time drawing on the inside covers of my exercise books rather than doing my maths or spelling. Luckily the schoolteacher appreciated my creativity and kept those book covers. Much to my surprise when I visited her years later as a young teenager, she proudly produced all my drawings on the covers and introduced me to her primary class as ‘Yvonne The Artist’, I felt so validated, and knew that Art was my path. Shortly afterwards I received a scholarship to attend Art College. What are you qualifications or are you self taught? At the National College of Art and Design in Dublin I studied Visual Communications: Fine Art (Painting and Drawing) and Graphic Design. Later in Sydney I studied Fashion Illustration and Textile Design at the renowned East Sydney Technical College. I am also a qualified Art Therapist and Art

Tutor. Although qualifications only take one so far in the Art World, I find my greatest learning comes from the many hours and miles on the paintbrush. Painting, like life is always about learning and discovering. When is your exhibition in Bellingen? My exhibition ‘SPIRIT TAKING FORM’ is at the Nexus Community Gallery in the Old Butter Factory, Doepel St. Opening at 3pm on Sunday 25 August until 20 September . Open 10am – 4pm daily. Where else can we see your work? You can always view my work on my facebook page: art by Yvonne Kiely facebook Or: www.yvonnekiely.com.au For those who love markets I am a regular at The Artist Markets in The Vines at Cassegrain on the fourth Sunday of the Month. Also I am represented at Sunset Gallery & Lounge, Port Macquarie. Describe your artistic style? Intuitive, Colourist, Imaginative and esoteric. Some of my paintings are representational and recognisable, inspired by nature and locality, but others are about the abstract, the intangible essence of all forms, including myself. I see myself as an instinctive artist. I am in my element when I am lost in the timelessness of my spirit taking form through colour and mark making. Where does your passion for art derive? Are you from an artistic family? My heart. I paint what’s in my heart. It is the passionate and creative desire to paint which drives me to the canvas. Painting is about

recording energy, sensation and my personal inner world and feel uplifted by it. perspective. What is more important to you; the I am the only artist in my family as my two subject of your painting, or the way it’s sisters are definitely more of the sporty type. executed? My parent’s farmhouse was overflowing with Painting is my passion and for me it is the sporting trophies on every shelf and my paintenergy and the non-definable attitude that I ings on almost every wall. bring to the canvas that is most important. Tell us about your new home stuThat fluid life-energy is my inspiration dio? more than whatever subject I choose to I’ve recently converted my paint. The experience and process of double garage into a beauticreating, for me, is more imporful studio space and home tant than the finished artwork. ks The wor gallery at 72 Home St. Port Creating an artwork involves s ow sh of e Macquarie. I’m always immersing myself in the nc ue fl in e th happy to talk ‘Art’ with journey, rather than focusAboriginal art in d colour choice an art lovers and allow you ing on the destination often make use to browse through my What painting has the of an overhead collection. Please ring most meaning to you? ” e. iv ct perspe first for appointment 6583 During my Art Therapy 9887. course I created some deeply Do you work from life, phosignificant works. Two paintings tos or imagination or a combinacalled ‘FREEDOM’ and ‘HOLD ME’ have tion? brought about profound change in my life Inspiration is a marvellous thing and I find and I shall never part with them. myself constantly excited by colours, composiThank you Yvonne. tions, snippets and daydreams. I work from all aspects of life. I am inclined to paint mostly intuitive imaginative figures and landscapes. I the plug! enjoy painting to music, poetry and creating What: ‘SPIRIT TAKING FORM’ portraiture interpretations. Where: Nexus Community Gallery What painting techniques do you use? Old Butter Factory, Bellingen Mostly mixed media on canvas, I use layers Date: Sun 25 Aug until 20 Sept 25 of colour, texture and design to convey layers Time: 10am – 4pm daily of meaning. Inspired by the varied tones of More info: 6583 9887 the human emotional landscape, my hope is to encourage the viewer to experience my

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Coffs Coast

Kingfish, braised Kipfler potato, Lilliput capers, petit herbs and chardonnay mayonnaise from Bonville Golf Club.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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eat. Cheese Platter

Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill The menus are as fresh as the catch of the day at the NEWEST taste sensation on the Coffs Coast - Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill located at the Deep Sea Fishing Club. Head Chef Jason Watterston has a real passion for wholesome, locally sourced produce, with particular emphasis on fresh seafood and variety to tempt diners. Uninterrupted panoramic ocean views make us the perfect choice for a family dinner, catch up with friends, business luncheon or special occasion. For reservations or functions enquiries, please contact 6652 1534.

Plantation Hotel

Members receive 5% off on all food and beverage purchases.

'Great Food, Sensational Value' is our mission statement at the Plantation Hotel, and we stand by it one hundred percent. We offer a great range of premium beers, quality wines, and sensational food seven days a week. If you are looking for a fun filled night of memorable entertainment, a meal for the whole family or just some nibbles and drinks with friends, the Plantation Hotel has it all. For more information, check out our website or call us today. www.plantationhotel.com.au Head Chef Jason Watterson.

Chef Blake Walton.

1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour t 6652 1534 w www.deepseafishingclub.com.au

88 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour. t 6652 3855 w www.plantationhotel.com.au open Lunch: 12noon to 2.30pm. Dinner: 5.30 to 8.30pm, 7 days a week. Tapas menu Friday and Saturday night and all day Sunday.

open: 7 days. Lunch and dinner and for breakfast from 7.30am on Sunday and Wednesday.

Zulu’s Restaurant & Bar

Tangellos Juice • Wrap • Coffee Bar

August sees the return of the Veneficus Menu to Zulu's. That crazy, "what have I actually got on my plate" experience is yours to enjoy again. This will be accompanied with a new look ... Some readers have been getting confused as to where we are ... Zulu's @ the Zebra ... Should clear that up ...

Located in the city centre, if you're looking for a quick takeaway or a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy something more substantial then Tangello's is the place. Freshly pressed juices, power packed smoothies and great rainforest alliance certified organic coffee we've got your drinks on order while you decide on a table to sit and relax, or grab a soup, pasta or wrap on the run. Chef Joel McCulla.

Tangello's has a full breakfast and lunch menu where you'll be sure to find something to tempt the taste buds, or one of our new sweet treats to accompany one of our delicious coffees.

Come say hi to Kate & Sharma.

July/August early bird special bacon and egg muffin or baby spinach and egg muffin $3.50 from 8am -10am.

27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) t 6652 1588 w www.zuluscoffs.com open: Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am. Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.

Kiosk A City Centre Mall, Coffs Harbour t 0431 455 249 open: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm. Sat 8am-2pm

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eat. The Pier Hotel Waves @ The Pier Hotel has recently launched an exciting new menu. We still have plenty of your old favourites like the Chicken Neptune and our mouth watering steaks, as well as some new hearty winter dishes such as the Lamb Shanks and Pork Steaks. We offer a variety of delicious weekly specials and don’t forget our great value lunch menu starting at $10 seven days per week. Our famous Mexican night runs on Thursdays from 5:30pm-8:30pm.

Horizons Restaurant & Bar Try Our Winter Dinner Menu. Featuring modern Australian cuisine with a creative menu, which has just changed for autumn taking full advantage of the region's freshest produce and seafood. Be tempted with the King prawns with garlic, chilli and chorizo on steamed wild rice or Cider, honey and almond poached duck breast with a black cherry sauce. Remember to leave room for dessert with the decedent warm white chocolate and raspberry brownie with chocolate fudge sauce and double cream, yum! Join us for lunch! THE OC LUNCH DEAL. Enjoy a glass house wine, domestic beer or soft drink, your meal & espresso or tea at Horizons Restaurant & Bar over-looking the pool and taking in the coastal views, guests are able to dine al fresco on the terrace or in air conditioned comfort. All for $23.50pp. 11.30am-2.30pm 7 Days. Bookings Preferred.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour t 6651 0510 open: Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week. Bookings recommended. Fabulous cocktails and happy hour 5-6pm daily.

Head Chef Dave Newick.

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel 6652 2110 bistro 6651 8222 Open: Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm, Dinner 5:30pm8:30pm 7 days a week

Macauleys Restaurant We’re CRAZY for seafood at Macauleys Restaurant and are committed to only using the freshest of locally caught seafood. Our Fish of the Day is a delicious example of how fresh seafood + local produce = heaven! Featuring a grilled locally caught fish fillet in lemon and thyme butter served with avocado cream and a warm salad of smoked potatoes, crisp pancetta, rocket, croutons and topped with a soft boiled egg. Vibrant, exciting food! AND if cruisy tunes and FAB food is your 'thing', then our 'Tunes and Food' Dinner Event is FOR YOU. À la Carte Dining with music from Josh Lovegrove – Friday 16 August. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL!

Finz on The Beach Located at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, FINZ on the Beach Restaurant has the perfect winter menu and views to warm up any appetite. FINZ on the Beach is open 7 days a week from 3pm for afternoon drinks and an early bird menu. You can choose from delicious dishes such as 'The king of steaks' or the popular dessert, 'Coffs Coast banana caramel tart, served with hazelnut praline and homemade banana ice cream'. YUM! You can now make your reservations online at www.breakfreeaanukabeachresort.com.au Don’t forget happy hour from 5pm - 6pm, 7 days a week.

Head Chef Craig Clarke.

Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 2400 w www.aanuka.com.au open: from 6pm, 7 days a week.

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99 Park Beach Road, Coffs Harbour t 6652 5970 w www.macauleys.com.au open: Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm.

eat.

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Seaview Tavern The Seaview Tavern Family Bistro is open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner. In between we have a great little bar snacks menu – so you are always able to get a great feed. During the winter months you’ll be warmed by our open fires inside, or alfresco in our large beer garden, warmed by mushroom heaters. So, it’s a great place to dine all year round. Our $10 meal deals make us the popular choice from Monday through to Friday, plus we have daily blackboard specials sure to please even the fussiest of palates. We also do takeaway meals – please ring through your order on 6654 1206.

Michelle+ Ricky Lee

Head Chef Paul Lynch.

51 River St, Woolgoolga t 6654 1206 w www.seaviewtavern.com.au fb fb.com/seaviewtavernwoolgoolga open: 7 days, 12noon – 3pm and 5pm – 8.30pm (extended trading for daylight savings)

WHOLLY COW Wholly Cow Café is now 20 months old – we’ve almost been around for two years! We hope to make another 2, and maybe a few more! ell us how Wholly Cow has have to try one for yourself! evolved over this time? I hear you have great coffee. Tell us about Our menu has evolved since that ... we started back in 2011, and we We love our coffee, and we serve organic, have introduced our delicious Fair Trade coffee roasted by Amelia Franklin breakfast menu as well as some fabulous Speciality Coffee Roasters – we have formed a salads and homemade soups. We also great partnership with Amelia since opening and offer a choice of bread for your will continue to spread the word about burger from either an organic her great coffee! sourdough bun or a wrap. We offer our coffee lovers two r We have also introduced different beans to choose from ou er off e W rs sandwiches served on which is great to get to try ve lo ee ff co to s Turkish bread too! Of different coffee! We currently an be t en two differ ch course, we continue have Café Femenino (which hi w om fr choose y to make everything in is a single origin from Peru) tr to t ge is great to house, including our and the award winning Mama ” ! ee ff co t differen yummy relish, mayo and Quilla blend. pesto and our philosophy I know you have a family. of using fresh, local and How do you juggle a business organic ingredients has and family? remained the same. Gets a bit tricky sometimes, and our two Are there any favourites that people lean daughters are usually in the café with us – sitting towards on the menu? at their favourite table playing on the computer! There are lots of favourites on our menu, but Have you had a chance to get involved in if we had to single a few out – it would have to the local community? be our simple but so delicious bacon and egg We are keen supporters of the Sawtell Surf burger, which we serve using our homemade Life Saving Club Nippers and lots of other local sauces to our signature ‘Holy Cow’ burger. sporting and community groups, such as the Our Wholly Vegie brekkie is pretty popular Sawtell Panthers, Sawtell Tennis Juniors, Sawtell too, which is eggs cooked to your liking with Golf Club and Sawtell Cricket Club. We are avocado, grilled tomato, haloumi cheese, fried part of the Meals on Wheels ‘Out and About’ mushrooms and crispy potatoes served on program, and we are also proud to be involved ciabatta toast. with the Make a Wish Foundation. Our milkshakes and thick shakes are also very Wholly Cow Cafe popular, and we make all the traditional flavours 2/39 First Ave, Sawtell as well as our own speciality flavours – you’ll 6658 2682

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Bacio Café At Bacio we serve delicious cold pressed juices, original recipe smoothies and coffee. We also offer a variety of soups (gluten free and veg options) served with sour dough or gluten free toast. Our macadamia chicken or prawn satay served with Vietnamese salad is packed with flavour. Did you know we are also open from 8am for breakfast? Try our very popular man size bacon and egg Turkish roll. Mention this ad for our buy one get one free coffee offer. Owners Lara and Craig.

9 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour t 6650 0499 w www.bacio.com.au open: Monday to Friday 8am-4pm

coffs coast focus 23

TANTALISE YOUR TASTE BUDS

Tuckshop Café In the heart of the Bellingen Shire lays the Tuckshop Café. Being one of a kind, they strive for perfection, especially when it comes to their coffee. Boasting about their locally roasted Artisti Di Espresso bean, they have changed the name of the coffee world within the community.

The

BIG FEED By Joel McCulla | Head Chef Zulu's at the Zebra There is a story, it has had many different titles and has been told in different styles and manors. The characters may change, but the moral is the same, and it's a story that has inspired me as a chef to try doing something phenomenally different. It is the story of Stone Soup.

he basic storyline, no matter that's about the people of Coffs for the which version you hear, is that people of Coffs. It's going to be a hit, as long a pilgrim is travelling between as YOU decide to be involved. towns during the winter months On the Saturday (specifics will follow), I will and runs out of supplies. He arrives at a small be at the festival armed with a hope and an village, but being a stranger he is greeted assembled outdoor kitchen. One by one as with barred doors, and no one answers his you, the people of Coffs Harbour, turn up to knocking. enjoy the festival, we invite you to Knowing that the village bring an ingredient, anything, is surely watching him, he the smallest amount of One by one as sits in the middle of the whatever you have to of you the people up common area, sets up spare. rn tu ur bo Coffs Har we , al iv his small pot over a st Then as the fe e th y to enjo g an in br to small fire, draws water ingredients turn up, u yo te invi hing , from the well and so shall an army of ingredient , anyt nt of ou proceeds to boil a stone volunteers; some will be the smallest am ve to ha u yo r ve whate from his backpack. chefs, some may have spare.” Sitting waiting for his problems boiling water, stone to boil, occasionally but all will be there excited tasting the water it boils in, the to take those ingredients and curiosity finally gets to the villagers, form them into the biggest free and one by one they visit the pilgrim. As feast Coffs Harbour has ever seen. each villager visits him, the pilgrim tells There could be no better way to finish of a them the tale of how his stone makes the day, to bring climax to a festival, designed for best stone soup, but that alas ... this particular and focused on the people you care about. soup was missing something. So watch www.wecareday.com.au and Then in turn, each villager tells him about www.zuluscoffs.com as the details about the some secret ingredient that they always use feast come in, so you can find out how to to make their soups better and shares a small both participate and benefit from this truly portion that they have from their own pantry. amazing event. The tale finishes with the whole village merrily Not forgetting, if you are handy with a knife sharing a feast of soup and festively seeing the or want to maybe pick up a few new recipes, night through. you can also register to volunteer on the day This inspiring tale is the inspiration behind in our makeshift community kitchen by visiting The Big Feed, one of the exciting events the Zulu's website. happening at the (soon to be renamed) We Can't wait to see you there! Care Day on Saturday 19 October – a Festival For bookings: 6652 1588.

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24 coffs coast focus.

A business whose main focus is relying on local produce to cater for their full gourmet menu! Making in house all their cakes and slices down to their infamous chilli jam and Dorrigo hand cut chips ... you read it right, we hand cut our own chips, delivered down the mountain, ready for you to experience. You can't beat the perfection behind this masterful creation. Tuckshop Head Chef Todd Travers makes a fine point of producing the perfect menu for all seasons! The Hearty winter menu has just kicked off, with a varied range of meals to keep you fuller for longer, yet still remaining healthy by using only lean cuts of meat and fresh accompanying sides. Jess Jolley, the face and owner of the business, with the help of her amazing staff has amped up the competition by offering a full gourmet breakfast and lunch menu but still keeping a cool, calm and collected atmosphere with

her ready to go light lunch selections, sure to satisfy even the fussiest of eaters. Not even stopping there, she is aiming to tackle a new part of the food market within Bellingen coming into August expanding into Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights offering a full Gourmet Burger experience, dine in or takeaway. So next time you take a trip out to Bellingen, be sure to stop off and let us take you on a journey of fine food and exceptional coffee.

TANTALISE YOUR TASTE BUDS

Gourmand Ingredients A treasure trove for foodies, the health conscious, bud budding master chefs, coffee and tea connoisseurs and anyone interested in the culinary arts. A wide variety of international foods, the largest range of Herbies spices on the Coast, local and hard to find ingredients, vegan specialties and many bulk products, including nuts, dried fruits, health products and over 15 types of flour. Beautiful olive and truffle oils and an extensive selection of vinegars; whether it’s caramelised balsamics, finishing vinegars, sherry, truffle or verjuice, we have it. Our large stock of Asian goods includes delicious frozen dumplings, dim sims, steamed buns and sweets, roti and Chinese pancakes. Everything for the discerning shopper, dispensed with knowledge and care by our friendly staff. Take some time to visit us; you’ll be amazed at what you’ll find. Or find us on Facebook for updates on new products, specials and foodie tips!

Impress Your Guests

Cheesemaking Workshops

How often have you been disappointed with your dining experience? It’s why customers keep coming back to Spare Chef Catering, a 24 year reputation that’s tried and true. And our secret? Chef prepared homemade cuisine - you can taste the difference.

At The Cheesemaking Workshop, Lyndall runs 100% hands on workshops. Her soft cheese workshop teaches how to make Camembert, fetta, quark, mascarpone, ricotta and yoghurt. She also runs an advanced cheese workshop teaching blues, haloumi, cheddar and more.

At Spare Chef we keep in touch with latest food trends, multicultural flavours and cooking methods. Our wedding and function menus have an enormous range of mouthwatering choices to select from. Did you know you can also have anything from a gourmet BBQ, elegant cocktail party, or our very popular intimate degustation dinner for less than restaurant prices in the comfort of your own home?

It is not just all about cheese. The bakery workshop is very popular where you learn basic and specialty breads, also how to make croissants and Danish. Lyndall has currently been expanding the range of workshops to include a few short courses to run in the evening, such as a Tuesday night pasta and gnocchi class and Friday night Fetta.

NEWS ALERT! Try our new E-Commerce online ordering for that night when you don’t feel like cooking or dining out. Perhaps you are having friends and family over and need to feed them. Why not pre order our delicious and convenient “heat & eat” buffet dishes starting from as little as $7.50 per person. It is a great way to feed a crowd, or if you’re entertaining guests, try our antipasto platter or hot hors d’oeuvres. Simply log on to www.sparechef.com.au

The Cheesemaking Workshops are great for a social get together, work Christmas party or a team building exercise. Not only are the workshops fun and informative, the food is amazing! And the view from the back deck stunning. All workshops are run in a relaxed environment, with plenty of laughs along the way. To find out more about any of the courses held at the Emerald Beach kitchen, you can go to the website: www.thecheesemakingworkshop.com.au or give Lyndall a call 6656 2335. If you would like to book in a group, this can be done on a date to suit you. Or you can join in one of the scheduled workshops. It’s a great day out.

coffs coast focus

TANTALISE YOUR TASTE BUDS

coffee

MATTERS Legend has it that one of the earliest known coffee kicks was witnessed back in the 6th Century when an Ethiopian goat-herd noticed his flock became quite frisky after a feed of berries from a particular bush, known these days as the coffee bush. The rest, as they say, is history.

ast forward to 21st century Australia and the coffee culture is obviously very much alive and well on the Mid North Coast. Local family business, Direct Wholesale Services (DWS), is the exclusive distributor of Douwe Egbert coffee and tea products and equipment for the region and is well placed to support the growing coffee scene. Their brands, such as Di Manfredi and Piazza D’Oro are popular with appreciative coffee drinkers at outlets such as K’pane Artisan Bakery and Thirst for Thirst, and the distinctive product is also available at major tourist attraction The Big Banana. Now under the management of new owners Barry and Deb Ford, DWS has been

26 coffs coast focus.

servicing Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas since 1965 and continues to be a local, family owned business. “It’s great to be in a position to contribute to the Coffs Harbour community, both from the business and personal perspective,” Mr Ford said. "My family and I are enjoying the opportunity to build strong relationships with the great team at DWS and our customers and suppliers. We are all interdependent and our success and wellbeing depends on the success and wellbeing of others in the community and the broader region,” he said. With recent research showing more and more people are opting for a fresh brew of coffee in preference to instant, coffee machines are becoming

a common, if not essential, feature in the workplace and in homes. Mr Ford said today’s machines deliver consistently high quality coffee, are simple to operate and becoming more and more affordable. “Bean to cup machines such as the Swiss made Schaerer Coffee Vito provide precision and reliability, along with a touch screen control panel, which makes it quick and easy for staff or customers to operate in a business setting,” he said. At home, we can recommend bean to cup machines such as the Melitta Caffeo, which can satisfy the need for a much deserved coffee at the push of a button – intelligent technology for individual indulgence. "Pod machines have a high profile at present, but today’s coffee drinkers are discerning and becoming more so by the day. The flavour of freshly ground beans from a bean to cup machine offers a far superior experience,” Mr Ford said. In addition to supplying commercial and

domestic coffee machines, DWS provides technical backup and cleaning supplies. “People have the misconception machines are hard to use and maintain but times have changed, and these days the equipment is user friendly and easy to operate. At DWS we have the expertise and experience on hand to provide reliable advice about the appropriate machines to suit our customers’ particular circumstances and of course, our after sales service is second to none,” Mr Ford said. Servicing the region between Port Macquarie to Ballina and out to Tamworth and Armidale, DWS also specialises in disposable packaging for the manufacturing and hospitality industries and cleaning products and equipment for both commercial and domestic use. Having recently increased the warehouse capacity in Lawson Crescent, Mr Ford is looking forward to extending and expanding the DWS product range and services as the region’s prosperity grows.

focusinterview.

S I M O N A N D K E R RY: A D U O W H O H AV E T U R N E D T H E I R S C R A P B O O K I D E A S I N T O A R E A L I T Y ! T H E Y NOW OW N A N D RU N A F U R N I T U R E A N D G I F T S T O R E I N B E L L I N G E N, W H E R E T H E Y H AV E F O R M E D T R A D I N G PA R T N E R S H I P S F R O M M O R O C C O A N D B E YO N D. H E R E T H E Y S H A R E T H E I R E X P E R I E N C E S I N I N T E R N AT I O N A L T R A D E .

here are you originally from, and what brought you to Coffs Coast? Kerry is from Western Australia, and I am originally from New Zealand. We have lived and worked together in Brisbane, Sydney and Cairns. We moved to the Coffs Coast a little over three years ago. The basic criteria was a temperate climate, to live on acreage, yet not too far from the sea. When we found the Coffs Coast, it had what we wanted: good beaches, plenty of places to explore, no traffic jams and just down the road from Sydney or Brisbane should we need a city fix. What were your earlier careers? Kerry has worked in the wine industry for some of Australia's leading wine brands, such as Penfolds Grange and Rosemount. My early career was in the building industry, and later I went into sales with Red Bull the Energy Drink, where I was Queensland State Manager. Then, I transferred to Sydney for the position of National Sales Manager. Kerry also has a Diploma in Interior Design, and together we have worked on a number of projects, including the construction and furnishing of private resorts and executive holiday homes in some of Australia’s most idyllic locations. How was Cargo Lane born? After moving to the area, we decided it was time to focus on our own business, although having never worked in the retail industry, the concept of opening a store full of the things we love had been an idea we had discussed on a number of occasions. When a fantastic space at The Old Butter Factory in Bellingen became available, we

had no excuse and took the plunge. What are your passions, and how did you marry this into your business? Kerry keeps a scrapbook with cut outs of everything she wants in her dream home. After deciding to go ahead with the store, we turned to her scrap book for inspiration. The scrapbook was a reflection of our tastes and was full of exotic flavoured furnishings, lighting, colourful homewares and interesting ideas for decorating. The main theme pointed towards Africa – in particular, Morocco. Having never been to Morocco, yet fascinated with the challenges of importing from this corner of the world, it was decided we would give it go. What is it like trading in a place like Morocco? How do you find locals respond to trading with a westerner? It's got be the best part of the job. To us, it's a bit like a version of the TV show, The Amazing Race. You travel for days to get there, knowing you have only five or so weeks to put together your next shipment. We know we have around 20 suppliers to visit, spread over about 5,000 km. We are often invited into their homes to eat and meet the family; this is where you experience the best of Moroccan cooking. Spending so much time in Morocco, do you have a residence there? Where do you stay? We do have an apartment in Marrakech we tend to rent on regular basis. It's located two minutes' walk outside of the old Medina (old city). It's in a good central place to operate from, with plenty to offer in the way of transport and food. We have our regular places we like to stay;

although, part of the fun is trying new accomoped? modation. When we look back to the photos of opening What is your buying process? night 2½ years ago, we can't believe how bare Our suppliers have different ways they like to the shop looked. We now carry a lot more stock, operate. Some have fixed pricing; for others, it's including a large range of unique gifts. We also all about the negotiation. A lot of time is spent do custom orders so if you can't find exactly what on the calculator converting currencies and cross you are looking for, we will have it built specially checking margins. When it comes to buying for for you. the right price, it only works if both the seller and Where do you see your career going in the the buyer can make a profit. This is the secret to next two years? being welcomed back next time. It's exciting times for us; we are only weeks So logistically, how do you get the stock away from launching our first website. Our main to Aussie soil, and how much stock do you focus for the next two years will be split between bring home? fine tuning the store and our product lines and We pack our own containers in Marrakesh. It's showcasing our goods to the wider domestic then road freighted up to the port of Casablanca audience on the web. Along the way, we want to be shipped around the top of Africa and back to jam in as much fun as we can ... after all; you down to Australia, then finally road freighted to only live once! Bellingen. We have a forty foot container on the Thank you Simon and Kerry. water now holding about 60 cubic The Plug: metres of stock that is due in Cargo Lane, store in August. The Old Butter Factory, How has your store 6655 0054 E EM TH grown and changed, www.cargolane.com.au N AI M E TH AR DS PO IN TE D TOW grown and devel, AR UL RT IC AF RI CA – IN PAVI NG NE VE R M OROC CO. HAOC CO, BE EN TO M OR ED W IT H YE T FA SC INAT ES OF NG LE AL TH E CH TH IS OM FR G IN IM PO RT OR LD, IT W E TH OF CO RN ER OU LD W E W D DE CI WAS DE ” . GO GI VE IT

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coffs coast focus

AUGUST 2013

Your Fastway Team WITH TERRI

Fastway Coffs Harbour is part of a national network staffed with local people who know the local community. Fastway Coffs Harbour is part of a national network staffed with local people who know the local community. All our Couriers own their franchised territory, in most cases having done so for many years. This has allowed the couriers to get to know their customers and to provide individual focus on the freight requirements for each and every customer. Same day delivery service between Woolgoolga, Macksville, Bellingen, Dorrigo and Armidale. For friendly, speedy, personalised service, contact the Courier Franchisee closest to you. Steve Ramsay 0419 766 493 – from Sapphire Beach north to Woolgoolga, with a limited service to Corindi, Arrawarra, Safety Beach, Red Rock and Halfway Creek. Sean Gardiner 0427 581 858 – North Coffs incl. Orlando Street, Lawson Crescent, Park Beach, Park Beach Plaza and Homebase, through to Korora. Claudia Gorman 0409 150 304 – Coffs CBD, Marcia Street Industrial area and West Coffs. Debbie Riley 0418 202 539 – Coffs Jetty, South Coffs Industrial areas incl. Thompsons Rd, Halls Rd, North Boambee Valley. CHEC and Coffs Harbour Health Campus. Jo Vandenberg 0427 275 027 – Middle Boambee, Boambee, Toormina, Sawtell, Bonville and Waterfall Way to Bellingen township. Rob Hanthorn 0407 360 720 – Raleigh, Urunga, Valla Beach, Nambucca Heads and Macksville. Unsure who services you? Want to become a customer? Or just want to ask a question? Contact our Coffs Harbour office team of Mark Dugdale (Manager), Shane and Mel (Customer Service) on 6658 6922.

Fastway Couriers

An extension of your business Fastway Couriers offer cost effective, reliable timetabled courier service, backed by the latest technology. It’s the ideal choice for small, medium & large businesses. We offer:

Ţ Ţ Ţ Ţ Ţ

Up to $1,500 coverage* No hidden costs or re-delivery fees* Full track & trace Online proof of delivery National coverage

To ﬁnd out about a delivery service that’s just right for your business, contact us: p.

02 6658 6922

w. fastway.com.au

* Conditions apply. Visit fastway.com.au for details. The Five Princesses Pty Ltd T/A Fastway Couriers (Coffs Harbour) ABN 58 156 439 824. This business is independently owned.

28 coffs coast focus.

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

It is an exciting time for you and you need to be focused positively, yet you may have taken on some-one else’s stressful problem, which could be leaving you drained of energy. Imagine yourself inside a bubble, and fill it up with happy thoughts. An abundance is coming your way. ENJOY! Clear Quartz is a wonderful amplifier.

PISCES. February 20 - March 20

You may be feeling disgruntled in relationships at present. Relax! You’re not alone. Avoid making any ‘hasty’ decisions. Soon you will notice personal change and higher selfesteem. Good Luck in your goal setting. Live in the present moment more and try to have no expectations, GOOD or BAD, of your relationship. Citrine shatters negative energy.

ARIES. March 21 - April 20

Re-connect with passion for what you are doing. You feel like you’re running on ‘autopilot’, achieving goals but to no satisfaction. Try making the most out of every breath. As you inhale, think happy. Try keeping a gratitude diary (3 things daily you’re grateful for) for a month. Ruby re-ignites passion.

September 24 - October 23

Reconnect with your talent in teaching people. You are able to share the most amazing insights and experiences, yet you’re afraid to speak for fear of how your words may be accepted. Focus on your intention or motive. Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.

Family matters are likely to be an issue at present. Don’t expect the worst, or you will be missing the point. Instead, take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to heal yourself and all others involved. Besides ... did it occur to you that you may just be the only one who can fix things? Rose Quartz and Turquoise together help us to express loving, healing words without judgment.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

June 23 - July 23 Ju

You have been experiencing high levels of energy lately, which has led to the discovery of new talents. Congratulations. These new talents need to be honoured, so enjoy that typical ‘CANCERIAN’ luck. Go have fun and play. Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.

LEO. July 24 - August 23

If only you knew your worth! JUDGMENT is your major hurdle at present. You may be self-doubting, and this is likely to affect relationships. Avoid major decisions until you are feeling a little more positive about yourself. Orange Calcite washes away self-doubt.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

Now is a great time to wake up an old dream and play with creating change. You have recently experienced personal challenges and have gained enormous strength. Focusing on your newfound qualities will help to keep you safe from your self-doubt. Turquoise is great for self-validation.

LIBRA.

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you’re needing is a little clear direction. As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly. Spend some time in nature to release your tension. Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

October 24 - November 22

Your judgment is hurting you at the moment. Listen to your inner voice, as you know your own answer. Others’ opinions are serving to confuse you further, and you are still not hearing what you want to hear. Like yourself enough to listen to you. Turquoise gives self-confidence a boost.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

You’re always searching for and chasing ‘that dream’. This is not a bad thing if you are living in the now. Avoid chasing something that WAS and think about the ‘you’ you need to be to achieve your dream. Living in the moment is the key to happiness. Clear Quartz helps focus attention on the task at hand.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

You may be confused by choice at the moment, especially since you may have wished for what you have. Remember if it isn’t absolutely right, then it’s NOT right. Allow this challenge to give you a new standard to live by, and don’t compromise that standard. Selenite stimulates our inner brightness.

The recently renovated rooms at The Pier Hotel. Old world charm with The T a boutique bo modern feel.

the

HOTEL

hat is the big news at in and viewing rooms and booking. Each room the Pier that we need to can accommodate two guests fitted out with know? either a queen bed or two king singles. The first two of several What made you decide to do this huge stages of re-development and refurbishment renovation? now been completed. The first – a new have n The reason for the renovation is simple. quality zincolume roof has replaced top qu The Jetty and greater Coffs Harbour area has previous one, which had been the pr nothing like it. The hotel is iconic and operation since 1961. in ope deserves to be put back as a front The roof refurbishment of mind location. The Hotel sits includes all new includ in the perfect location, with r The reason fon is tio insulation, Colorbond insula a short stroll providing you va no the re y and tt Je e Th e. guttering, re-painting gutter with everything you could pl m si arbour greater Coffs H of all ffacia and want for a relaxing getaway g like area has nothiniconic is soffeting and the soffet or some time out on a busy it. The hotel to be put reinstatement of the reinsta business schedule. and deserves t of mind back as a fron original chimneys, origin What facilities do these location.” which are visible from well appointed rooms Harbour Drive and from Harbo provide? rear of the Pier. the re Our spacious rooms provide How can we book these new quality bedding, brand new vanities, Boutique rooms, and how many can Bouti modern lighting, LED TVs with Fox Sports and accommodate? they a WiFi access. The rooms have been renovated Our rooms can be booked directly from the with a top class fitout, which has given them hotel via email: manager@pierhotelcoffs.com. a feeling of comfort, style and grace – the old au - or by phone: (02) 6652 2110 or by calling world charm with a modern touch.

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coffs coast focus 29

focusinterview.

K y l i e W a l t e r b y d a y o r ‘ X a e d a’ w h e n o n s t a g e i s t h e f o u n d e r o f t h e local Middle Eastern Dance School called Sacred Lotus Bellydance.

Kylie Walter

‘XAEDA’ SACRED LOTUS BELLYDANCE

hat are the origins of Bellydance? The origins of Bellydance are as mysterious as the dance itself. There are so many diverse cultural influences within this dance that have evolved over time. Some believe that Raqs Sharqi (Dance of the East) is one of the oldest forms of dance and is descended from early Egyptian times; another theory is that it started as a way to ease child birth pains, or that it has come from the Gypsies travelling from India. Whatever its past, the dance is intertwined in the culture of the Middle East and has now found its place in the West. What is the history of Bellydance in Australia? The first known interest for Bellydancing in Australia was during the late 1970s to 1980s. Early dancers like Amera Eid and Terezka Drnzik (who both trained under Rozeta Ahalyea) started in the night clubs and at cultural events of Sydney and the Academy of Middle Eastern Dance (Brisbane), was opened in 1989 by Maria Masselos and Susan Buntine. The AMED, along with Amera’s Palace, are amongst some of the longest running schools in Australia. Bellydance has now spread across the country, with Bellydance communities in every city and many regional areas. Where are you from? I am as local as they come. I grew up in Nana Glen and later moved around the country, but always ended up back in Coffs Harbour. How and when did you first develop an interest in Bellydance? My first introduction to Bellydance was in 2001 through a friend. I had never seen or heard of the dance before, but from the second I stepped into that class, I was hooked and I have not stopped shimmying. When did you start Sacred Lotus Bellydance,

30 coffs coast focus.

and how was it born? I discovered that I love teaching in 2005 after entertaining a small group of friends. It took me a year to warm up to the idea, but on 6 August 2006, Sacred Lotus Bellydance School opened its doors for the first time. How has your career progressed? I started as a basic beginner student and built on my skills through continual learning and research. Sacred Lotus started in 2006 I A M A S LO C A L with four students and E. A S T H EY C O M now hosts over 45 A N A N IN I G R EW U P My students are women locally, and ER G LE N A N D LAT T H E always number there are numerous ND M OV ED A RO U LWAYS one and I have students from all A C O U N T RY, BU T IN so many women over the Mid North K EN D ED U P BAC . ” whom I respect Coast who attend my R U O B R A H S C O FF and admire, such as workshops. The one Shekhiah Morgan from class a week has evolved Awalim in Bellingen. But into eight, and I now travel from the start, Amera Eid to festivals where I teach has been my biggest influence. workshops and perform amongst She has an ease about her as a the best in the industry. dancer, teacher and mentor that is hard to find Do you compete? anywhere else. No, I don’t compete. There are a few What is something that no-one knows competitions in America, but on a whole the about you? Australian dance community keep the dance as Not everyone knows that I lost my skirt in the an art form and not a competition. middle of a performance once! I had to finish my As a business there is always an aspect of dance with nothing covering me from the waist competitiveness. I choose to include other down but some Bridget Jones style undies and a Middle Eastern dancers and schools in the events hip scarf. It was very embarrassing (laughs). that Sacred Lotus present and approach it as a What events are on your 2013 calendar? community experience. This year has been a whirlwind of events. I What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt have recently returned from the Sydney Middle along the way? Eastern Dance Festival, where I was invited Be humble, be open and stand in your own truth. This dance has taught me so many lessons. to perform. Sacred Lotus will be hosting the amazing Amera Eid for their Annual Hafla ‘Gala The students of Sacred Lotus teach me just as Concert’ on 3 August at the C.ex Club in Coffs much as I teach them – sometimes more. Harbour. August will also see me dancing in Who has been your biggest influence?

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Brisbane as part of the Bellydance Bonanza and I will be in Wollongong in September, teaching and performing for the Cinnamon Twist Bellydance festival. Every December, Sacred Lotus finish the year with a student showcase. There are also local and other national gigs on the cards, so there is a lot to keep me moving. If we were contemplating doing a class, what can we expect? Lots of FUN! We always have a good laugh in class. The beauty of this dance form is that it is all inclusive. There are no age or ability restrictions and it can sometimes assist with health problems. It is never too late to join a class, as beginners are welcome all year. All you need to start is a smile. Thanks Kylie.

the plug! Sacred Lotus Bellydance Where C.ex Coffs Auditorium When Saturday 3 August. Tickets $20 adults, $15 children under 12 years.

focusinterview.

PETSTOCK MEET BRONWYN AND MAT hat brought you guys to Coffs Coast, and where are you both from originally? We met each other in Port Macquarie when I moved in across the road from Mat, going on nearly 5 years ago in 2008. We instantly found we shared many common interests – both animal lovers, we have both always wanted our own business and we had a combined love of the Mid North Coast, after having both grown up in country areas. A few years ago we decided we were ready to start or take on a business of our own. We were on the same page immediately – it had to be in the animal/pet industry and it had to be in Coffs Harbour. We had our first weekend away together here in Coffs 5 years ago and we fell in love with the gorgeous beaches and rolling hills. We knew this is where we wanted to start our first business and our future family. When the opportunity arose to take on the ownership of Petstock Coffs Harbour, we thought all our dreams had come true. We jumped at the chance to take on the business and relocate to Coffs Harbour. We are now 10 months into our first year in business and are loving our decision to live and work on the Coffs Coast. What initially made you take on the chal-

lenge of a Pet Stock franchise? Definitely our combined love of animals and our combined desire to have our own business. Mat started working with Petstock in Port Macquarie when they opened in 2010. He fell in love with the business and the fact that as a franchise we are FULLY 100% AUSTRALIAN, which was very important to us. Fast forward 3 years, and here we are on the beautiful Coffs Coast doing what we love. Who makes up the Coffs Coast Pet Stock team? Mat Ross – owner and store manager; Bronwyn Jameson – owner; our awesome team – Dustie Keys, Sarah Luxford, Briana Rooney, Grace Keys and Leanne Bright. Leanne also offers IN STORE GROOMING. What products and services do you offer? Our product range includes dog and cat food, toys, leads, collars, harnesses, ID tags, kennels, small animal hutches, travel crates, training crates, treats, bedding, tick and flea treatments, worming treatments, grooming products including clippers and the AMAZING SHEDEZE & FURMINATOR and much, much more – we have so many different products to treat and pamper and care for your pet. We also offer a wide range of reptile, bird, chook, fish and aquarium needs,

along with a wide range of beautiful live fish and a handful of carefully selected hand raised birds in our most popular breeds. Services include: dog grooming and microchipping. All staff are silver and/or bronze accredited pet nutrition specialists! And we offer the best service in town. Do you have any daily deals? Mondays we offer $2 DOG WASH DAY and it’s ONLY $5 for 10 mins every other day. TUESDAYS WE OFFER 10% Seniors Discount. WE also offer fantastic savings with EVERY DAY LOW PRICES on Pedigree Dry 20 Kg dog food, Supercoat 18 kg Dog Food, Fancy Feast Cat Food and Breeders Choice 20 L kitty Litter, to

name a few! What is something that no-one knows about Pet Stock? (Shelf to car – local delivery). PETSTOCK IS 100% AUSTRALIAN OWNED! We employ local people. Petstock offers a fantastic customer service called ‘Shelf to Car’. This means any Petstock team member will take your heavy purchases right off the shelf and into your car. Or, Coffs Harbour store members can take advantage of FREE home delivery! We also NOW offer in-store GROOMING and MICRO-CHIPPING. We have a DIY dog wash at the best price in town! We offer super competitive prices every day! We are pet friendly – your leashed furry friend is welcome in Petstock. Free water testing. NOW OPEN FROM 9am - 3pm on SUNDAYS!

coffs coast focus 31

of the city

in the

of the city

in the

Harmony Store. NOOSA Amsterdam? Uniqueness and quality best describes NOOSA Amsterdam collection ... created by two young Dutch designers inspired by their travel around the globe and a special visit to Noosa!

Sanco Projects. Steve Sanders has been in the construction industry for over 25 years, having delivered projects totalling over $50 million. What is Sanco Projects? Sanco projects are an innovative commercial building company based in Coffs Harbour. Sanco specialises in commercial and retail fitout and refurbishment projects of any size or value. We also offer a range of services, including but not limited to, general building services, contract Project and Site Management and Consulting Services within the building industry.

Who are the local businesses you've worked with recently? In the past 18 months Sanco has worked with Morrisons Beta Electrical, Fig Restaurant, Travelworld Park Beach Plaza, Pansabella Providores, Sensara Boutique, Coopers Surf, Cocoa Café, Coffs Central Newsagency, Harbour Sweets, Millers Fashion, the Butcher’s Bullevarde just to name a few. Currently I have been appointed by Gowings Bros Limited, the owners of Coffs Central Shopping Centre in Coffs Harbour, acting as an Independent Project Manager.

What is your history? I grew up in Coffs Harbour, where I completed my carpentry apprenticeship and open builders licence before relocating to Sydney. I was previously employed by Australia’s largest commercial refurbishment company, where I worked as a Project Manager on large scale commercial projects Australia wide for over 15 years before returning home to Coffs with my family and setting up Sanco Projects in 2011.

What is the ethos of Sanco Projects? Design, Communicate, Construct – at Sanco we offer a professional proactive approach to a wide range of building services, working closely with our clients to ensure they receive the correct advice and cost effective solutions, ensuring they get a high quality project at a price they can afford. We pride ourselves on our quality delivery and open lines of communication, allowing our clients to 'Get on with Business'.

32 coffs coast focus.

Originally started with belts and bracelets, Noosa-Amsterdam now carries a wide variety of accessories, including scarves, bags, wallets and sandals. As your collection grows you can swap and change the chunks on your Noosa accessories to create your own look and style.

Like our facebook page and receive a 15% off your Noos se ha rc pu am rd Amste in August 2013.”

“

Noosa-Amsterdam makes a great present and gives your loved ones an opportunity to buy something with meaning. How do Noosa Amsterdam accessories work? Start with a beautiful NOOSA Amsterdam quality leather belt or bracelet – then choose your chunk. Every few months, 10 new chunks are added to the collection. NOOSA leather belts from $120 – different lengths available and two widths. NOOSA leather bracelets from $42 – three sizes and two widths

NOOSA chunks – from $16.50 to $33.50

What are NOOSA Amsterdam chunks? The Noosa-chunk is part of a specialised press stud system incorporating beautiful charms to clip on to your NOOSA base. The chunks and press-studs are nickel free and are easily attachable and removable. Each handcrafted chunk comes with its own story, origin and meaning, creating your personalised Noosa-Amsterdam accessory. The chunks are handmade out of mostly natural materials such as stone, wood, pumpkin, shell, bone and ceramics. Choose from over 180 original chunks.

speedy lube.

in the

of the city

Speedylube has a new owner, Steve, and he is excited to be heading up the experienced Speedylube team. Speedylube is conveniently located in town at 25 Park Avenue and open 5 days a week from 8am-5pm. Their highly skilled technicians are ready to service your car whether it is a simple oil change or a more comprehensive service. With state of the art analysing equipment, they can diagnose any vehicle and help increase the performance of your car. They can replace your timing belt, work on brakes and clutches and can replace tyres, do tyre balancing and alignments. The Speedylube teams combined knowledge and experience are here to provide you with the correct part the first time - at a reasonable price and with a nationwide warranty. Speedy Lube - fast, drive through, fixed price servicing - while you wait, no need to book and no hidden costs. OFFERING even more than fast, drive-through fixed price servicing, mechanical repairs and registrations, Speedy Lube on Park Avenue is now your Climax Suspension franchise on the Coffs Coast. With access to 22 companies including well-known brands like Lovells (exclusive agents), IronMan, Tough Dog, Bilstein, Koni and Whiteline, Speedy Lube can now meet all your car and 4WD suspension and accessory needs from rooftop and tent annexes to long range fuel tanks, side steps and lift kits. At Speedy Lube we Specialise in 4WD's, suspension and mechanical repairs. We have a huge range of quality after market products and carry all the major 4WD brands. From oil changes to repairs we do the lot, it's all too easy at Speedy Lube.

love & kisses.

in the

of the city

“I bought this in Milan, and this is the first time I’ve seen these watches anywhere else in the world ...” was just one recent customer comment about the S.T.A.M.P.S watches that Love & Kisses has sold for the last five years. You’ll also find Italy’s best wallets at Love & Kisses, jewellery from California, bears from Charlie Bears London, hand knitted slippers and socks from Nepal, worry dolls from Peru, Fair Trade gifts from Cambodia, and even some things made in Australia! Owner Judy Sheehan says that the hot items right now are scarves and scarf jewellery – new stocks arrive every week, and just to give you an idea, at the time of going to print Judy had another 140 new scarves on order and about to arrive! No wonder they’re so popular though, when most sell for around $10.95. At those prices, when you’re buying one as a gift you can buy one for yourself too. When you’re searching for something that’s quirky, different, or new, make this great little gift shop your first place to go ... you’ll almost always find something that pleases you.

coffs coast focus 33

of the city in the

The Happy Duck. Meet Colin Dennis.

in the

of the city

The owner of SMS Strata Management Group, Colin Dennis, has his heart firmly planted in regional Australia. Whilst Colin did go to a Grammar School in Melbourne, he returned to the South Gippsland area. There, he worked as an insurance salesman before starting his own real estate firm in his mid twenties (yes, just like John McGrath). He moved to Sydney and had an illustrious career with the likes of Jones Lang Wooton and LJ Hooker, experience which helped him establish his Strata business in Coffs Harbour in 1993. After 20 years, Colin would even now be considered a local and can be spotted on his board at North Sapphire every morning. Colin values ethics and honesty above all else – adamant that all Australians living in Strata are given the facts about what a professional and proactive Strata Manager can do. Colin believes in mentoring and empowering his team and offering his vast experience as a guide.

34 coffs coast focus.

in the

of the city

Have you been in to see Clare and John at the Happy Duck? Did you know that John is a renowned Sydney Chef from Hong Kong? After living in Hong Kong and Sydney, John and Clare have settled in Coffs Harbour and love the lifestyle and people. John and Clare have a healthy clientele of regulars but would like more people to know about their restaurant and all that is on offer. "Everyone talks about how great the food is and at such a great price," says Clare. They are celebrating their 5th anniversary and they have great specials on offer. They offer all day Yum Cha and a delicious lunch menu and dinner specials too. You can enjoy the Chefs Suggestions of Peking Duck, Seafood Nest or try a Lamb Pancake. There is a huge range of entrees, soups and of course delicious mains like chicken, beef and seafood dishes. There are dishes to tempt the vegetarian and chow mien, plus yummy deserts like Toffee Banana and ice-cream or Red Bean Paste Pancakes. So gather up the family or workmates and head down to the The Happy Duck, which is located opposite the C.Ex Club in Vernon Street and be surprised by the standard of delicious authentic Asian cuisine.

Make Funky Fish Your next dish. Tell us about you and when did you take over Funky Fish? We are originally from Newcastle where Andrew managed a Café for two years. We have lived in Coffs Harbour before and loved it so much that we returned to Coffs last December and became the new proud owners of Funky Fish. We know you are famous for your fish and chips but what else is on the menu? We have homemade beef hamburgers, chicken & fish burgers and “on the go” snacks if you are in a hurry. Are you open for lunch and dinner? Yes we are open for brunch, lunch and dinner. If you are short on time then please phone your order ahead ready for pick up. Why do you think your loyal customers keep coming back? Our customers continually tell us they love the taste and our generous food portions. They love that we choose to use Rice Bran oil. Local customers come from as far as Woolgoolga to order our lovely battered fish. We thoroughly enjoy cooking “the usual” for our customers and having a chat. Pauline and Andrew hope to see you soon.

V I L L AG E BU I L DI NG R E IG N I T E S

COFFS HARBOUR

elev levat ated ted p pa a ce arce ar cell will involve its connection to an el elevated parcel of land on the north eastern side of the ridge line at the very top of the development. This premium parcel of land has breathtaking ocean and coastline views and represents a seamless integration between the Big Banana land holding and The Summit development. Village Building Company is a joint venture partner in The Big Banana, providing for a more strategic and integrated approach regarding residential development within the north Coffs Harbour area. This integrated approach to development is something that the Village Building Company prides itself on and has been evident across many of the communities it has developed. This month, the Village Building Company celebrates its 25th anniversary in delivering landmark quality, innovative residential communities across Australia. With current operations in the ACT, NSW, QLD and WA, and a development portfolio of close to $1billion, Village

Building is dedicated to producing robust, diverse and vibrant communities and making the home ownership dreams of many Australians a reality. Village Building holds a long-term commitment to creating safe and attractive communities that reflect best practice in sustainability, innovative design, quality workmanship, lifestyle and product choices. You will find Village Building communities in sought after suburbs located in close proximity to key amenities such as public transport, schools, employment and services. Village Building’s master planned communities also include an abundance of parks and recreational space providing active and passive connectivity, thereby enhancing the enjoyment

for residents today and in the years to come. Visit villagebuilding.com.au for more details on the Village Building Company and their array of residential communities. The Summit currently boasts a selection of spacious and contemporary family homes of varying configurations – all displaying the same attention to detailed design and high quality finishes synonymous with a Village Building Company home. Homes at The Summit should prove to be a very sound investment in a project that will increase incrementally in value as the vision for The Summit is revealed. A move to The Summit is a move up to a dress circle lifestyle in Coffs Harbour.

MOVE UP TO THE DRESS CIRCLE

FICE S F O S SALE EEKEND W OPEN T 10-4PM SA 0-3PM 1 SUN There are currently 4 designs of magnificently presented family homes available for immediate sale. No matter what home you choose at The Summit you will be at the epicentre of where the mountains meet the sea. Come and see for yourself.

7 Large Quality Family Homes with Dress Circle Views of Coffs Harbour FROM $385,000 INTERIORS SHOWN ARE OF THE QUEENSCLIFF DISPLAY HOME 3 OUTLOOK PLACE

Newport

Queenscliff

EXIT THE HIGHWAY AT THE HOMEBASE. FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL I sales@thesummitatcoffs.com.au

Phone: 02 6651 1929 I www.thesummitatcoffs.com.au

HIA-VBC 10783fch

erfectly positioned and commandmmanding superb views across thee city to the Coffs Coastline, The Summit is a stunning boutique hillside retreat, developed by the award winning Village Building Company. The development is a true testament to sustainable urban form and showcases a range of architecturally designed homes elegantly integrated into the naturally formed escarpment. The Summit is a perfect example of Village Building’s commitment to sustainable urban development and indeed, to the local communities in which the Company operates. The Summit commenced in 2007 and since then it has endured a period of transformation and change reflective of market sentiment. It has more recently undergone a physical rejuvenation in readiness for the exciting vision that lies ahead. The Village Building Company has been busily planning and documenting the next stage in the lifecycle of The Summit development, which

coffs coast focus 35

focusinterview.

White Marg White is a successful business woman in the finance industry. Twelve months ago she had a serious injury and was unable to work. Now she is back at her desk determined to assist others from the very valuable lessons she learnt. Not many people stop to consider what would happen if they had an accident or got sick, but after reading Marg’s story, you just may!

here are you originally from, and what brought you to Coffs Coast? I moved to Coffs almost 30 years ago from Coogee Beach in Sydney. We always wanted to move up this way, as it was where I spent my early schooling and we loved the area. The opportunity arose, and we grabbed it! It was the best decision we ever made, as we love living in this beautiful area. What was your early career? Oddly enough my professional career started later in life after my daughter had grown. I studied accountancy while my daughter was doing her exams, and I actually started working with Davies Knox (now DKM Group) over 20 years ago. From there it was a natural progression into a career in financial planning specialising in pre and post retirement superannuation planning, estate planning along with investment advice and asset protection and life insurances. Prior to that I worked in banking, completed a Retail Fashion Diploma and set up a children’s wear manufacturing business with a girlfriend. It has been quite a varied career, before I settled on something I really was passionate about. Do you have a family? With such a successful career, how did you manage to juggle family life and being a career woman? I am married with one daughter and have been blessed with two grandchildren, who are aged seven and three. Having a supportive and enthusiastic partner and family is always a bonus when you're juggling work, study and home life. Organisation is the key, along with determination and a will to succeed is important, as it can be tough at times. In 2012 you had a serious accident, how long were you unable to work? I had a serious accident 12 months ago and was unable to work for 6 months. I considered myself ‘bullet proof’; it has been an amazing journey! In terms of your recovery, how important was income protection considering your lengthy time without income? Fortunately I had an income protection policy which paid my ‘wages’ after a one month wait period up until the time I continued work. I also had a trauma insurance, which paid a lump sum 36 coffs coast focus.

to me. I am still using this today to pay for out of pocket expenses which invariably arise where there is ongoing treatment involved. How exactly did income protection 'protect' you and your family? The power of income protection and its worth can never be underestimated. Not only does it allow your lifestyle to continue as normal, but it also meant that our savings plans, dreams for a great holiday, and other financial goals were not While younger put on hold while we you need to be at lo ans were all going through able to ensure th e is ther a very stressful time. are repaid, that support to ey on m In many ways it gh enou provide d an ily m fa prevented us having ur yo ture, fu e th for them in to eat into capital an r ffe and or life insurance can su u yo should to pay for lifestyle, or ss ne ill ed benefi t. It is definitely ct pe unex medical and associated .” nt not only for the rich! No de ci ac costs. As a result of this, matter what stage of life the recovery process is so you are in, it is so important much easier, knowing stresses to protect your greatest asset – from a financial perspective have that is, your ability to earn an income! been eliminated! A lot of people working mistakenly think they Your employer, DKM; what support did they are adequately covered by workers compensaoffer? tion. Workers compensation didn’t assist me, as I cannot speak more highly of the support I rethe accident didn’t happen at work or travelling ceived, as well as the ongoing support I continue directly to or from work, and I can’t think of to receive, from my employers. Their enthusiasm too many illnesses that will attract any workers in encouraging my recover, and a staged return compensation support. to work has assisted greatly in my progress. It is While younger you need to be able to ensure wonderful being back with them all, and I will that loans are repaid, that there is enough monbe forever grateful as I know that their overridey to support your family and provide for them ing concern is for my wellbeing. It makes a great in the future, should you suffer an unexpected difference knowing how much you are valued by illness or accident. your colleagues. As we age, we want to protect the things we From your personal experience and in your are saving for or trying to accumulate to fund professional opinion, just how important is our future lifestyle. It takes so long to build and it to protect your family and income with accumulate assets, whether it be paying off income issuance? your home or saving for a holiday or retirement. My personal experience only reiterates the abIt is devastating if you find you are in a posisolute importance that insurance plays in setting tion where you are forced to sell assets, simply your goals for the future. It enables everyone to because you did not take the time to ensure all make better financial choices so that they have risks were protected. a better control over financial affairs, especially Insurance can be within or outside superanwhen an unexpected illness or accident occurs. nuation, and you need to find out which are A lot of people think it's only for the 'rich' the best options to choose given your individual ... does this type of product protect the evcircumstances. eryday worker? Or is it specifically for high And you're back at the office working away. income earners? Are you enjoying being back amongst the There is no limit to whom income protection

“

industry? I am most definitely back and with renewed enthusiasm! Having been through my experience, I cannot stress to people enough now about the importance of being adequately protected, and my aim is to assist anyone I can with having the right protection in place – especially with the damning statistics of cancer, stroke and heart attack happening here in Australia. The frightening ever increasing chances of men suffering prostate and skin cancers and women suffering with breast and cervical cancers in particular are a major concern. Accidents do happen and these illnesses are unfortunately a fact of life. After what I went through, I cannot imagine getting up each morning and going to work and not having the appropriate protection in place. What does the future hold for you now that you're fighting fit and healthy? I think enjoying life and looking forward all the time is so important. What is past is done, and I feel it is all about enjoying the ‘now’ and making the most of every day and planning for a wonderful future. I have been on an incredible journey and just want to make the most of everything that comes my way! Thanks Marg.

the plug! Margaret White CFP FIPA is an Authorised Representative of Insight Investment Services P/L Australian Financial Services Licence No 309996. A division of the DKM Group. For more information, call 6650 5959

Northern Notes at the Con – June 2013

Annual Careers Expo This month at the Conservatorium This month the Conservatorium will be in the midst of term 3 musical studies and completing AMEB exams for those students who are taking this course of study. The Con has a wonderful selection of experienced music tutors who dedicate their lives to both teaching and performing music across all styles and genres, who literally eat and breathe their passion. They are always keen to share their love for music and performance with our students, who are derived from all ages and levels of experience. We have even started our own ukulele group for adults who feel like being part of a small ensemble. This is such an easy way to start something musical and guaranteed to be fun. The Con doesn’t discriminate, and anyone and everyone who has any interest in learning music through singing or playing an instrument is welcome to come by and speak to our team about what is available. In 2014, the Con will be celebrating 30 years in Coffs Harbour and four years in our permanent home. For the first time, we will also be holding musical performances in our own space once some basic building work has been completed. We are all very excited at this prospect and if all goes to plan, will start in March.

Youth Directions and Directions Plus are taking the advice of Dr Seuss: “Only you can CONTROL your FUTURE”, as they organise their annual Careers Expo. In 2013, the event will be reimagined into The Future of Work Careers Expo and Forum. Staff members Tahnie Frater, who recently competed a Bachelor of Business - Hotel & Resort Management, and Madelaine McCullough, a School-based Trainee studying Cert II in Business Services, are both busy working to create an event that will inform and inspire the Coffs Coast community. Local employment and training options, career pathways and work of the future will be showcased in sessions for schools 9.30am - 3pm and for parents and the general public from 3pm - 5pm. Directions Plus will offer FREE sessions from 3pm - 5pm with qualified Career Advisers, to assist individuals better understand their career options. Evening session from 5.30pm - 7.30pm will be a ticketed event, with keynote speakers informing the audience about the future of work in specific industries. Tahnie and Madelaine both have an interest in Events Management and are enjoying the opportunity to learn while they develop a fabulous event for the Coffs Coast. Interested in exhibiting or attending this event, call: Youth Directions 6653 2900 or check the website.

Digital Business @ your library Coffs Harbour City Library has established a new collection of resources to support local businesses, entrepreneurs/sole traders and organisations to get online and take advantage of superfast broadband and online technologies. All of the material in the library’s new Digital Business collection is available for loan and covers a diverse range of topics, including: e-commerce, cloud computing, superfast broadband applications, video conferencing, digital casting, open source solutions, multimedia creation, creative digital industries, leveraging social media, tele-working, developing mobile apps, mobile computing, electronic data interchange (EDI), cyber security, designing websites and website search engine optimization (SEO). Nearly 100 titles are currently available. Anyone can borrow this material; all that is needed is a library card. It’s free to join the library if you’re a resident or ratepayer of Coffs Harbour local government area. Users can browse the collection and reserve titles online via the library’s web catalogue at: http://library.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au The collection is designed to support Coffs Harbour City Council’s Digital Strategy – Switched on Coffs and was funded using Local Priority Grant funds from the Library Council of NSW. The collection is now available at Coffs Harbour Library.

NBLF NVTJD with '3*&/%4 COFFS HARBOUR REGIONAL CONSERVATORIUM

guitar groups ensembles choirs & more Bray Street Complex Cnr Bray Street & Paciﬁc Highway Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 CALL

6652 1592 VISIT www.coffscon.org.au

coffs coast focus 37

m e e t

c o f f s

c o a s t

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North Sapphire North Sapphire Beach current release nears sell out as construction revs up on 43 new lots.

North Sapphire Beach, Walker Corporation’s premier coastal residential development 8 km north of Coffs Harbour, is nearing sell out on its current release, with 93% of lots at ‘North Sapphire Park’ sold.

hree lots ranging from 714 square metres to 951 square metres remain available in ‘North Sapphire Park’, and 50% of the ‘Beachfront’ land release has already sold since its release in March 2013. Only nine 665 square metre lots adjacent to the pristine North Sapphire Beach and Pacific Ocean still remain in the exclusive gated community, with prices starting from $430,000. Walker Corporation’s Mr Chad Walker, said, “We’ve seen some great results at North Sapphire Beach. We have really focused on creating a family community that takes advantage of the natural environment and outdoor lifestyle. We are seeing families that want a sea change and locals who want to be close to Coffs, while still feeling they are in paradise. “It’s the Australian dream to live by the beach, and North Sapphire is one of only a handful of developments on the New South Wales coast able to offer that at an affordable level,” Mr Walker said. Construction started on the next stage of the development in the second quarter of 2013. The new release in the 60-hectare develop-

meet a

local.

ment will be comprised of 43 lots ranging from 510 square metres to 833 square metres, e located within an easy walk to North Sapphire Beach through five hectares of untouched fs bushland and only a ten-minute drive to Coffs Harbour CBD. The new release is expected to open early 2014. Sales Manager Robyn Goddard is excited about the response to the new release: “We have had an enormous number of enquiries for the next release. Buyers like the proximity to a major town centre and the safety that an exclusive community offers. We’re expecting strong sales in line with the outcome we have seen so far at ‘North Sapphire Park’ and the ‘Beachfront’,” she said. In addition to offering land to buyers to design their own home, a number of well-recognised builders have plans available for all budgets and tastes including Adenbrook, GJ Gardner, Blue Ribbon, Sapphire Homes, Tuscan Homes and Perry Homes. Several display homes are open for inspection at the estate. Inspections of North Sapphire Beach can be made by visiting the sales office from 9am to 3pm on Wednesday to Sunday or by appointment. Interested buyers can also call Robyn for an appointment on 6653 6288 or 0428 619 919 or visit the development website www.northsapphirebeach.com.au For more information about Walker, visit www.walkercorp.com.au

Clint Hayward - CPA.

here are you from? I was born in Manly but moved to Coffs Harbour when I was 10 and have been here almost ever since, except for a brief stay in Gosford where I met my beautiful wife and what was supposed to be a 12 month trip around Australia that lasted almost 3 years.

that they have developed a great friendship. Something not all siblings have. Your latest adventure Clinton Hayward Accounting? What services do you offer? Clinton Hayward Accounting is a family run firm that offers solutions for taxation and

accounting requirements for individuals and Tell us about your travel adventure around family run businesses. The services we provide Australia? I left from Sawtell Caravan include the processing of individual Park in July 2010 to do the big tax returns through to all aspects lap in a caravan with my wife of ATO requirements for Michelle and our kids Emily sole traders, partnerships, rsonally, I Pe and Samuel. We went companies and SMSF’s. really enjo y north to Rockhampton eeting new m What's the best before heading west to ilding

“

avoid the wet season. However, we got to Darwin at the beginning of the wettest wet season ever and endured Cyclone Carlos.

people and bu am relationships. I get I at fortunate th om fr le op to meet pe of ks al w nt re all diffe life.”

Whilst in Darwin I went to Christmas Island for work and travelled overseas for the first time. We visited Singapore, Vietnam, stayed at an orphanage in Thailand and finished with R&R in Bali. We eventually headed for WA and got to Fremantle before deciding it was too cold and windy and headed back to Darwin before heading back home to Coffs. Although we didn’t get the whole way round Australia we had a fantastic time, saw awesome places, experienced amazing things and met beautiful people. We had a truly blessed adventure. Travelling with kids, what a great adventure? When we started the trip Emily was 7 and Samuel was 4. This was a great experience for the kids. Other families were few & far between so other kids were instantly best friends. It was great for Emily and Samuel's

38 coffs coast focus.

relationship. They spent so much time together

thing about being an accountant? Obviously accountants are well known for their tremendous sense of humour. Personally, I really enjoy meeting new people

and building relationships. I am fortunate that I get to meet people from all different walks of life. I enjoy creating opportunities and assisting my clients with something often viewed as a burden. What are you looking forward to most about being home? Being closer to family is the reason we came home. Whilst we loved Darwin and the lifestyle, being so far away was almost like being in another country. With Eli having being born 13 weeks ago it tugged at the heart strings being away from everybody. It is great being back in Coffs and meeting up with family and friends who we haven't seen for almost 3 years. As I'm a Coffs boy at heart, it's great to be home. Clint Hayward CPA Ph. 6652 8000

Norm Jordan Function Rooms

Coffs' Premier Venue This premier venue is one of the most versatile and adaptable spaces on the Coffs Coast. The rooms can be hired together, separately, or in conjunction with the boardroom, for an ideal break off area. The rooms are identical in size – both seating more than 200 people. The north room features a garden lined patio with a western wall, perfect for a stage or presentation area. The south room has easy access to the open grass areas of the grounds and parking through the southern doors. At the Coffs Harbour Showground you can choose to self-cater, have us provide morning tea, or treat yourself to Sparechef’s onsite catering service – you choose what level you would like to have. Whether you choose the north or south room, the Norm Jordan Function Rooms are the ideal venue for training seminars, workshops, meetings, conferences, parties, weddings or just about any other type of event you could imagine. The possibilities really are endless! With the recent renovations now complete, the rooms are modern, with new carpets, tiled foyer and bar area and a new colour scheme; it can all be enjoyed in air-conditioned comfort. For further information, please visit our website at: www.coffsshowground.com.au or call our friendly staff on 6652 8401 to check availability.

Send anything anywhere! Do you want to arrange international shipping from Australia? Do you have an international removal, or are you moving abroad? Don’t worry, at Pack & Send we have you covered! When it comes to international shipping and sending goods overseas, we offer a complete range of solutions tailored to your international freight and shipping requirements. We can help professionally pack your effects, or you can choose to do it yourself. We can also help you select the right packing materials from our vast variety of quality packing materials to help move your effects safely. What’s the best method of sending your items overseas? At PACK & SEND we provide a wide range of options for your international shipping solutions, therefore ensuring that you can always find the service you need depending on the package that you need to send overseas. With great international rates for our air freight, sea freight and slow air freight services, we are able to tailor to anyone’s budget. With this in mind, we will always help you choose the best method to suite your time frame, needs and requirements. Come into our service centre, located at 6/163 Orlando St, and we can provide you with an on the spot quote for sending anything, anywhere!

Pack & Send Coffs Harbour. We treat every job as a Special Delivery. overseas g anywhere in Australia or We pack and send anythin s item able valu and d e, awkwar Specialising in fragile, larg ia tral Aus oss acr y ver deli Priority door to door courier removals supplies for storage and Do it yourself packaging r store bou Har fs p off at our Cof We pick up or you can dro

PACK & SEND Coffs Harbour 6/163 Orlando Street (Cnr Lawson Crescent) Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Email: coffsharbour@packsend.com.au

Phone: (02) 6651 3027

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coffs coast focus 39

Dr. Jamie Robertson and Dr. Rona Forrest met whilst both doing medical placements in South Africa, Cape Town four years ago. Both young doctors are originally from Scotland and work in the emergency department at the Coffs Harbour Base Hospital.

ONA FORREST Please introduce yourself ... My name is Rona Forrest, and I’m 27. Where in Scotland are you from? What prompted you to come to Coffs Harbour? I grew up and attended university in Glasgow, then worked there for 2 years before coming to Coffs Harbour. Both Jamie and I were keen to move to Australia – we’re lucky to have such an easily transferrable career and felt ready for a new challenge. A childhood friend of mine was working here in Coffs before we moved out and spoke highly of her time here, so she put me in touch with the Director of the Emergency Department, who also happens to be from Glasgow! I liked the idea of a change from city living and wanted to get a feel for rural Australia. Coffs Harbour is a great balance between town and country living and is a perfect location for exploring much more of Australia while we are here. When and why did you first decide to become a doctor? I’ve wanted to be a doctor for as long as I can remember; there was never a clear defining moment. My mum is a doctor, and I was aware from an early age what a pivotal role she played in her patients’ lives. I was always excited to visit her at work and hear her regale tales of her day. Playing ‘hospitals’ with a toy medical kit often seemed to feature in childhood games and although I had a brief flirtation with other ideas, ultimately it always seemed to be the right career choice for me. I’m a sociable person and wanted to combine working with people with a desire to do something where I can make a difference on a daily basis. I’m fascinated by how complex the workings of the human body are and how we are able to influence that. What is the most important thing you've learned since becoming a doctor? Never judge a book by its cover. In my line of work I encounter people from all walks of life, and some of the sweetest and most grateful people may be those who the rest of society shun or frown upon. I’ve also learned the benefit of 40 coffs coast focus.

(Under 30)

simply lending an ear – sometimes I may be the only person a patient has the chance to speak to or confide in, which can make a huge difference to them and is such a privilege for me. What's your speciality? I’m working in Emergency Medicine. It’s a very exciting area to work in, as I never know what will happen when I walk into work each day. What inspires you to help people? s The hospital ha r Seeing the difference ou ith w t ea gr en be e that the decisions I W t. en career developm very here for a year now. make and advice I a in are lucky to be t. Where and when did en m give can make not rt pa proactive de ng hi you meet Rona? ac te only to the individual, of ts We get lo to es We actually met for iti un but to their family, rt po op and urses co in the first time in Cape e at friends and potentially ip ic rt pa country.” Town four years ago. We the wider community. throughout the were both doing medical In an acute situation it’s placements there and ended up inspiring to watch people’s being robbed on a night out, so we clinical condition change for the had a romantic date at the South African better in front of my eyes as a result police station. of the interventions I make. Why did you decide to become a doctor? Are Considering all the advances that have been your family doctors? made in medicine, is there anything you feel I decided quite late in school to become a docmedical science/older physicians could be tor. I had somehow managed to get good grades doing better? in my exams, and medicine seemed like an excitOne of the things I love about medicine is the ing and potentially rewarding career. None of my fact that it is such a constantly changing and family are doctors, which is good, because when developing field. To think, for example, that in the I spend time with them we don’t end up talking days my grandfather began work as a physician about work related things. antibiotics had not even been invented is mindHow do you find patients in Coffs Commuboggling, considering what an important and nity respond to young doctors? simple part of my work they are now. I think the We tend to get a positive response from most challenge for all doctors as we progress through people. Being young doctors, I think we have a lot our career is to ensure you keep up to date with of enthusiasm for the job and try to make people’s the constant changes and developments to ensure experience of the ED as pleasant as it can be given that the best standard of practice is maintained. the circumstances! It is amazing how many people I’m lucky to work in a department where all of my you treat tell you that they have visited or have bosses are highly aware of this and they’re knowlheritage from Scotland. edgeable about new advances and research. How has the hospital supported your career? JAMIE ROBERTSON The hospital has been great with our career Please introduce yourself ... development. We are lucky to be in a very proacMy name is Jamie Robertson; I’m 27. I am tive department. We get lots of teaching and originally from Scotland. I studied medicine at the opportunities to participate in courses throughout University of Edinburgh before working in Glasthe country. The hospital has recently developed gow for a couple of years then moving to Coffs. their simulation centre, which we get lots of I’ve been working in the Emergency Department

“

opportunities to use. It can reproduce nearly all medical emergencies in realistic scenarios. It can be pretty stressful when you know you’re being watched, but practising under pressure and getting feedback on our performances means that when it comes to a life or death situation, we should be able to perform! What advice do you have for young people in our community who are contemplating studying medicine? Now that I have been working as a doctor for a few years, I couldn’t imagine doing anything else. I would recommend it to any young person considering it. However, you need to make sacrifices. There will be lots of studying, exams and long shifts, including weekends and night shifts. Despite all of that, we love it. It’s a profession where you can travel across the world; you meet so many interesting people. At the end of the day you can leave the hospital and know you’ve made a positive difference to people’s health. You've embraced the rugby scene – who do you play for? I have joined the Coffs Harbour Snappers. I find playing rugby is a great way to switch off from any stresses or worries. Unfortunately, I’ve only been able to play a handful of games so far this season due to work commitments, and I’ve recently been following the British and Irish Lions tour. There is a great bunch of guys at the Snappers, and they’ve made me feel very welcome. I’ve been following their matches over the last few weeks and they’ve had some really positive results. Hopefully, I’ll get back soon and be able to help them through the business end of the season. Thanks Rona and Jamie.

GeoLink For over 20 years GeoLINK’s experts have created quality solutions and a sustainable living environment. Find out more about us and see if we can help you. Planning – contact Simon Waterworth. We use a modern approach and sustainable planning principles to develop solutions improving the use and management of land resources. Our planners are well versed in legislation at local, state and federal levels. Environmental Compliance and Auditing – contact Simon Williams. Our expert auditors can sort your environmental liabilities and regulatory requirements and conduct audits to ensure you are operating consistent with your legal responsibilities. Environmental Engineering – contact Tim Ruge. Our engineers focus on the use and management of air, water and land resources surrounding us. Services offered include water resource management, erosion and sediment and contamination. Ecology/ Environmental Science – contact David Andrighetto and Peter Thrift. Whether it is fauna or flora, bushfire or acid sulfate soils, our team are experts in surveying, monitoring and reviewing environmental factors and impacts. Landscape Architecture and Design – contact Richard Elliott. Urban, cultural, heritage or commercial, we offer a tailored landscape architecture service. We are passionate about achieving design excellence in all our projects, with solutions that are holistic, creative and sustainable. Contact us, GeoLINK, and meet our experts today.

Coffs Quilters & Needlecraft Coffs Quilters & Needlecraft are holding an exhibition of their work at the Coffs Harbour Race Club & Function Centre, Howard Street, Coffs Harbour, on 23, 24, 25 August, from 9am. There will be quilts on show made by our talented members and embroideries covering a range of different techniques, from stumpwork, goldwork, Jacobean crewel work, fine embroidery as well as beading, knitting, crochet and wearable art. We have a quilt which we are raffling, and the proceeds from this quilt go to Regional Cancer Services, as well as many local charities. In the past we have donated money to Angelflight, PCYC, local surf clubs, Westpac Helicopter Rescue and many more. While we are not a fundraising club, we have nevertheless donated thousands of dollars to local charities. We will also have quilts from clubs in the surrounding area on show. As well, we have a selection of traders selling fabrics, specialty needlework supplies, patterns, even handmade items from our members just in time for Christmas giving. Devonshire teas will be served, as well as delicious sandwiches, hot soup with crusty bread, drinks, tea and coffee, all at a very reasonable rate. Entry is still only $5. Come along and enjoy.

GeoLINK Helping to create a sustainable Mid North Coast for over 20 years

Planning | Engineering | Landscape Architecture Environmental Auditing | Ecology For help with your next project visit us online at www.geolink.net.au PO Box 1446 COFFS HARBOUR NSW 2450 02 6651 7666

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coffs coast focus 41

SIMON CHLADIL Events Manager at Coffs Harbour Racing Club

Coffs Harbour

ell, Coffs Harbour’s biggest event of the year is almost upon us, and certainly there is a buzz around town as people are organising their purchases of the latest trends in fashions. Think Gatsby era but remember to dress sensibly, as the weather can get quite cool later in the day. Park Beach Plaza’s Fashions on the Field is a big part of the day, and this year’s judges will be looking for winter race wear. Hats – think felt, wool or leather in darker hues. Cinched waist dresses, mid-calf pencil skirts with fitted bodices and print shift dresses. Classic monochrome and bright bold prints, beautiful jewel colours such as ruby red, emerald green and sapphire blue. The Park Beach Plaza Fashions on the Field will be very hotly contested this year, with over $20,000 in prizes including gift vouchers from Park Beach Plaza, amazing jewellery from Kennedy Jewellers and wonderful accommodation packages from Novotel & Mercure properties. It will be those entrants that have the extra finishing touches that will prove to be the winners. Don’t forget gloves, matching handbag, a cardigan or blazer or even a cashmere scarf. Ladies – definitely wear your new shoes in before the day and

42 coffs coast focus.

remember, it is a winter race day on grass lawns, not a night club. So think thicker heels, not stilettos, and the track is never the place for tiny mini skirts. Tickets are still available online from the Racing Club’s website, or you can purchase them in person at the club during business hours. Our premium packages sell out quickly, so my advice is book early and don’t wait until the last minute. The very popular Westlawn’s Sportsmans Breakfast will be held again on Wednesday morning with NBN’s Mike Rabbitt, iconic cricketer Doug Walters, Leading Jockey Glyn Schofield, race caller Matt Hill and other surprise guests. On Gold Cup Day there will be a full variety of facilities available for the public – from centrally located bars, food courts offering diverse styles of snacks, 'Fashion refreshers' for the ladies to touch up makeup, hair etc, as well as the expected TABs, Bookies and toilet facilities. To cater for the large amount of people, we will also have a big screen on the track, another one in the Carlton Beer Garden and large screen TVs throughout the building. 2013 will see a whole new bigger Corporate Marquee area for the larger companies, as well as smaller marquee packages in the

Carlton Beer Garden or the all-inclusive premium Gold Cup Lunch Marquee and the VIP Lounge, all available to buy online. There will be all the standard bus routes and taxis available at the start of the day – while from 4pm there is a Taxi Rank on Howard Street, and we also offer a large contingent of courtesy buses to get people to the CBD, Sawtell or around the Jetty precinct. Drink responsibly throughout the day, and DON’T drive if you’ve had a few. Car parking will be available, accessed from Hogbin Drive; however, we also offer security parking at the southern end of BCU stadium, with a free shuttle bus service right to the entrance of the course as a very convenient option that also helps the ladies from having to walk too far at the start and end of the day.

the plug! 2013 Carlton MID Coffs Harbour Gold Cup on Thursday 1 August 2013. 6652 1488 events@coffsracingclub.com.au www.coffsracingclub.com.au

BEAUTY ON THE PROMENADE Relax, unwind and indulge in the only multi level world class beauty salon on the Mid North Coast. Split into different areas, Beauty on the Promenade caters for all aspects, from the simple eyebrow wax to the full day luxury day spa treatment. The waxing bar at Beauty on the Promenade doesn't play by the standard girly beauty parlour rules. It is a laid back, buzzing little salon staffed by friendly, highly qualified staff. In one corner we have shellac manicure; in the other, organic makeup demonstrations and colour consultations. The Relaxation Area, on the other hand, is a breath of fresh air. The custom built day spa is the perfect place to relax with friends or a loved one. Testimonial: "Beauty on the Promenade listens to their clients and offers the best treatments on the Coffs Coast. I highly recommend the therapists and believe individuals are catered for, as nothing is ever too much trouble."

PA R I S I A N FA S H I O N S Celebrating over 70 years of dressing the fashion conscious ladies of Coffs Harbour, Parisian Fashions is pleased to announce their stock can also be found at The House of Le D達in Designs, Sawtell. Parisian Fashions stock a fabulous range of Australian and European labels such as Geoff Bade, Jaki K, Joseph Ribkoff, Stitches and Meredith. Parisian Fashions are stocked up on exquisite hats and fascinators, including beautiful hand crafted stock from Sydney milliner, Ani Choubouk. Canny shoppers should keep an eye on the bargain rack, where classic pieces can be found for as little as $20. Call into Parisian Fashions at 152 West High Street, Coffs Harbour.

coffs coast focus

s o c i a l s c e n e with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

below. Trudy Smith, Sam Dawson, Bonnie Smith.

below. Kerrie and Andrew Fraser, Carole Beros, Dr Christopher Knight and Mayor Denise Knight. left. Kay Ryan, Elyan Shotbolt, Carole Beros, Carol Thompson

below. Gabrielle Wenman, Kay Skinner, Liz Mitchell,Barbara Wenman-Maria Madge

left. Lloyd Smith, Mena Abdel Messih, Sam Ledger.

above. Vicky Hunter, Sharon Lenton, Kay Skinner, Morgan Skinner, Brittney Ainsworth.

Social/scene. The Coffs Coast is really a ‘potpourri’ of beautiful places to spend our relaxation time. Tourists flock in by the hordes to visit our fabulous surrounds. rela

n the morning you can walk on white sands with not a building in sight, have breakfast in one of our sensational eateries, shop ‘til you drop and then drive into the picturesque countryside. A good example of how popular we are is when it’s the Sawtell Chilli Festival. I have never seen such a massive crowd down on First Avenue. A few complained but to be quite honest, I was as proud as punch! It was literarily bumper to bumper. Aromas of tempting hot and spicy dishes filled the air. Splashes of vibrant colour from entertainers for the day paraded the street. Stalls and displays at every corner. This year they had to extend it further up the road! The weather was perfect and the day was a massive success. Well done to all involved. Staying on fabulous stalls and what we could get at the festival, there was even someone selling clothes for pets! ‘The Son’ spied a rather fashionable faux fur outfit which was apparently designed for cats! I was a bit doubtful, as ‘The Husband’ is a bit overprotective about our Mog and wouldn’t be in it. He will even be upset that I’ve called it a MOG! He commented that it would make the cat hot, as you couldn’t put fur on fur! Anyway, the son bought ‘The Cat’ this ridiculous present, and I had to listen all the way home about who was betting who that the cat would wear it! You’ll have to read on to find out the outcome ... It was a big week for us personally, because we opened our flagship store ‘House of Le Dãin Designs’ on First Avenue. We called ‘Special Occasions’, threw a launch and had the courtyard at the back of the store sparkling with fairy lights and had cocktails and bubbles aplenty. This of course, was popular with our fabulous FOCUS girls, who love to let their hair down 44 coffs coast focus.

occasionally! We also definitely felt a bit special as we had our good friend Denise knight, who just happens to be our lovely lady Mayor, open the store for us. Entertainment was provided by talented musician/singer Nathan Hardy, who turned the night into a party! For bookings, call 0422 809 532 ... To capture the memories, Tom from St Images took the pics. We would like to send a special thank you to the eateries from Sawtell, who provided the catering. Also, to my fab friend, Leonie, for her sumptuous dishes and to everyone who made our night so special ... Went to see a wonderful production, which was presented by CHATS Productions Inc. Of course, it was staged at our quaint Coffs Harbour Jetty Memorial Theatre. Mum’s the Word was actually a smash hit on five continents. It is an award winning ensemble production which explores the agonies and ecstasies of parenting. We got to share the onstage journey of a group of mothers. I found it to be hilariously funny, nostalgic and touching. Really good production; great night out! I attended the first birthday celebration event for the CHC Pharmacy, with Sam Dawson from FOCUS. Guests arrived at the Specialist Medical Centre to enjoy the night’s celebrations. Fine wines and Moet et Chandon Champagne was flowing, along with delicious canapés provided by The Rainforest Café. To add to the elegance of the event, there was the ambiance of a talented musician at the grand piano. Lovely night ... Happy first birthday! Big day on Saturday! Attended three events in one day! First up was a lunch with the ‘Birthday Girls’. Kay Ryan was celebrating her birthday, and those girls just love to socialise! Had lunch down at the Star, beautiful old Hotel

with water views and fantastic food. Next on the agenda was the ‘Hats and Bubbles’ fashion show, which was staged by ‘Sharon Lenton Events’. This fabulous Millinery and Fashion affair was held in the function lounge at the Skinner’s Pier Hotel. Big renovations are going on over there, and we got the privilege of getting a sneak preview! ... I’ll tell you one thing ...it’s looking mighty fine! Beautiful Millinery was on display from fabulous Milliners, and Jacqui’s shoe boutique had some gorgeous shoes to tempt the girls! Who can resist ... more shoes?! Le Dãin Designs Jewells also had the opportunity to showcase some of their collections. Definitely a fun afternoon for the ladies! Met up with Michael Marchment from FOCUS Port Macquarie for cocktails and then headed back to Sarong Restaurant in Sawtell for a tasty supper. If you are running late to get jazzed up for the races ... don’t panic! House of Le Dãin Designs down on First Avenue at Sawtell is having a Race Styling event afternoon in store from 3pm ‘til 6pm on Saturday 27 July. We love to dress women of all ages for all occasions and suit all budgets. Be dressed by talented stylists, such as the multi fashions on the field winning Elyan Shotbolt, Carol from Parisian, myself and the ever stylish Kay Ryan. Arrive with your outfit and we can complete your look, or choose from fashions and millinery in store. For enquires and bookings, call 0417 471 019. Bubbles, cocktails and canapés supplied ... Olympic Champion Brooke Hanson was spotted recently having a casual swim at the Coffs Harbour Aquatic Centre. Brooke is a gold medallist, and I hear she made a few kids’ dreams come true that very same day. She very kindly returned to the pool that afternoon and

sat and gave some lucky young swimmers a few pointers on how to achieve their goals and how learning to swim and the benefits of water safety is an asset to life. Staying with the water topic: make sure you attend this exciting Superboat event! Fast and exciting is definitely the name of the game! Coffs Harbour has won the hosting rights to a round of the Australian Offshore Superboat Championships. Selection of the nation’s speediest boats will stage an exciting show in our very own harbour. Dates to attend are from August 29 to September 2. The action starts at 10am each day near the Fishermans Co-op. Woohoo! Sounds like fun! Big celebrations were in order for Kerry and Rachael Sullivan. Their local business ‘Wicked Berries’ won the Micro Business Award Category at the Telstra Business Awards in Sydney. They specialise in designer strawberries dipped in rich delicious Belgium Chocolate ... need I say more! The hard working couple are now finalists in the Telstra National Business Awards. Back to the Feline Fashion Show! Nothing was said for a couple of days, and ‘The Cat’ definitely wasn’t seen about town sporting its new faux fur coat. Then only just yesterday, when I drove into the driveway, there, sure enough, sitting on the window sill, was my snobby cat staring out the window with an absolute look of disgust on its face ... ‘The Son’ had definitely won himself a $20 bet off ‘The Husband’. Our cat was dressed up Fur on Fur and ready for ‘THE CATWALK!’ Here is to strutting your stuff ... Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

Top 8 Family Business Tips started MJ Accountants in March 2007 and within a month, my sister, Ebony, finished her accounting degree and joined me. Three months later, Mum came on board and by October, my youngest sister, Kristy, had joined us as our bookkeeper. I found myself running a family business.

Like many other family business operators, I’ve had struggles separating business from family. Over the years I’ve watched my many family business clients carefully and read extensively on the topic. I’ve made my own mistakes and found strategies that make things work better. I feel ready to share with FOCUS readers my top tips for family business success!

Top 8 Family Business Tips: 1. Communicate. Don’t assume that a family member knows you so well that nothing needs to be said. They may be your sister or your wife, but that doesn’t make them a mind reader. 2. Separate business from home. It’s important not to confuse family and business decisions. The more you professionalise your business, separating business and family expenses, the healthier your business and family relationships will be. 3. Write it down. You should define the terms of any business relationship in writing to ensure that expectations are clear on both sides. This is just as true with a family member as with any other staff member, supplier or client. 4. Be fair. Family members should be paid at a fair market rate, and they should not be on the payroll at all if they don’t work for the business. Pay packets are the biggest single cause of family conflict.

5. Invest in training. Don’t assume that it is enough for the next generation to learn at your knee. Invest in outside training and professional development, so younger family members can keep your business growing. 6. Hold family accountable. Family members working in your business must be held accountable for their actions, just like any other staff member. Sometimes this is going to require tough decisions and difficult conversations. 7. Go outside for help. When differences threaten to cause a rift in family relationships, hire a professional facilitator to help you reach an agreement. 8. Keep things in perspective. It makes me so sad when I see a family torn apart over business. When disagreements occur, it is critical that you keep things in perspective. Remember you can buy a new business, but you’ve only got one family. At MJ Accountants we are the experts in business. We understand the stresses, challenges and opportunities that business owners face everyday. And we work closely with our clients to help them plan, grow and thrive. Call us. We are here to help!

From Our Family Business to Yours If you own a family business and would like to talk to us about ways to grow your business and keep it running smoothly, give us a call on 6652 8788. We’d be happy to offer you a free one-hour family business consult – just say you read about us in FOCUS.

coffs coast focus 45

The History

B E T W E E N

COFFS HARBOUR AND SASEBO

The delightful story of how this all originated commenced from a little Australian school in Japan where two nuns, Sister Clement, the Principal of Seiwa,and Sister Kimura took up the challenge.

1988.

Signing of the Sister Cities by Mayor Bernnard Malouf (Coffs Harbour) and Mayor Kumashi Kakehashi (Sasebo)

1990.

Welcoming Party for Mr and Mrs .Degens (Coffs Harbour) -The formation of Aust/Japan Society

1991.

Sister Clement - Second principal of Seiwa visiting Coffs Harbour

2002.

Signing of Memorandum of Understanding with University of Nagasaki

2003.

At CHEC-Student Exhange

2000.

Showcasing best practise aged care facilities in CoffsHarbour

2007.

Keith Rhoades visits the Sister City, SASEBO

1995.

5th Anniversary-School Exchange picture includes Sr.Kimura

2008.

Japanese Garden within the Botanical Gardens

Past Gifts from SASEBO

he history of the sister relationship between Coffs Harbour and Sasebo, Nagasaki, Japan began with a little Australian School named Seiwa, which commenced in the 1950s following a conversation between Cardinal Gilroy of Sydney and Cardinal Hamaguchi of Nagasaki.

We Catch up with Mayor Denise Knight and talk about the connection between Coffs Harbour and the sister city – Sasebo ...

big, g "YE YES" YE S , and d that a is ho h w this a "YES", how allll came about! Mayor Malouf and Mayor Kakehashi signed the sister agreement in Sasebo in 1988. There have been many delegations to and from Sasebo in the last 25 years.

In the 1980s, Japan wanted to form a relationship with cities from Australia. There have many benefits The delightful of the sister agreement, story of how the including the signing T he y Coffs Harbour of a Memorandum y actuall Sasebo p of Understanding a looked at a m nd relationship between Coffs of Australia a originated Harbour and went by traine began with Nagasaki University, n a sb ri from B two nuns, the establishment in d e d and lan Sr. Clement, ” of youth exchange Coffs Harbour. Principal of programs, plus Seiwa and Sr. the formation of the Kimura taking up Australian/Japan Society. the challenge. There has also been the exchange They actually looked at a of gifts and the Coffs Harbour Council map of Australia and went by train from houses many beautiful items that are on Brisbane and landed in Coffs Harbour. display for all. They then caught a cab to the Coffs The Coffs Harbour Council are excited to Council and Chambers and presented host the Sasebo delegates and celebrate the Mayor, Bernie Malouf, with an the strong civic relationships that have invitation to be a sister city. Bernie said a developed over the last 25 years.

“

A past Mayor, the late Bernie Malouf, was instrumental in establishing the Sister City Exchange Program with Coffs Harbour in 1988. What are your reflections on this decision?

Mayor Malouf was a wise man and could see the advantages of the sister city arrangement and had the foresight to see it through ... like any sister facing the tyranny of distance, it sometimes just needs that little bit of extra work to maintain. Bernie and all the Mayors since him have done a great job!

This 25 year anniversary visit to Coffs Harbour marks the success of a strong and respected relationship with Sasebo. What have been the highlights of this for Coffs Harbour?

Our Japanese gardens are a real highlight when we show it off at the Botanical Gardens on Japanese Festival of Children's Day. But let’s not forget not only do we gain a wealth of knowledge and understanding from Sasebo, but they also learn from us as a true sister relationship.

– what contribution and role have they played in strengthening this international bond? Previous Mayor Jenny Bonfield and General Manager Mark Ferguson were great ambassadors during their visit in 2002, but all the Coffs Harbour Mayors have maintained this relationship with an integrity and honour that makes our city proud.

What do you hope to bring to the relationship with Sasebo as our current Mayor?

I have big shoes to fill, but I hope I can introduce the Mayor to a city hungry to grow and progress, one that embraces its visitors, welcomes its neighbours and strengthens its sistership bond.

The relationship with Sasebo has crossed the careers of many of our past serving Mayors

We have some real treats in store. We hope to show some Aboriginal culture with a taste of Coffs Harbour business ... a twist of Coffs Harbour agriculture ... a swirl of our education ... a sniff of our local produce ... then dive into karaoke.

What type of events do you have planned for the pending visit with the Sasebo Mayoral delegation proposed in August?

with Renee Atkins, owner Beach Bodies Health Club

Fad or Friend? d? – W h y w o n’ t i t w o rk f o r m e …

If you've followed a fad diet, you have plenty of company.. But have you been able to stay on these deprivation diets for a long time? And if you did lose weight, did the weight stay off once you went back to your normal way of eating? Fad diets are generally “There is a way based on unreasonable to drop kilos and calorie restrictions and firm your body. some even cut out entire d food groups just to The solution to en is a In practical terms, this means produce that short lived your fad dieting ” . ge an that as your body has adapted drop in weight – a prolifestyle ch to function with fewer calories, cess that is actually harmful you will begin gaining weight even to your health. The fad diets though you are eating your normal also ignore one major compopre-diet portions. And since exercise hasn't nent to shaping up: exercise. become a part of your routine – the unneeded Most fad diets operate on one principle: cut calories, cut calories, cut calories. By restricting calories will result in kilos gained. There is a way to drop kilos and firm your and reducing the type and amount of food consumed it is almost impossible to not see an body. The solution to end your fad dieting is a lifestyle change. immediate drop in weight. If only it stopped To start your lifestyle change, you need to be there ... But it doesn't; life continues, and aware of your options and what will work for you will return to your pre-diet eating habits you – call Renee on 6652 1428 for options – with one major difference in your body due to end your fad dieting and to find a solution to the sudden drop in weight. Your calorie that will work for you. requirements have gotten smaller.

Australian Psychology and Wellness Centre

ustralian Psychology and Wellness Centre, located on the corner of Gordon street and Park Avenue, is fast becoming well known for not only the big giant head on our front window, but also for our beautifully designed offices and professional service. Apart from Psychological Services, we provide a conference centre in a welcoming environment with all the technical equipment to help enhance your next presentation or workshop. We also boast a team of psychologist ranging from Clinical to general, all with their own specialities and modalities. Michelle Kent provides services for children, teenager and couples therapy. She also provides crisis intervention with mediation. Verity Stoker focus’ is on adults. She addresses mental health issues such as depression, Post Natal Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and Life Coaching. Verity also does Hypnotherapy for cessation of smoking, weight loss and confidence building.

Kyla Holley is an eating disorder counsellor whose approach is compassionate, understanding and supportive. Her treatment areas include Anorexia, Bulimia and Binge Eating. Finally we are excited to introduce our newest member of our team at Australian Psychology and Wellness Centre. Clinical psychologist Jess Watters will be consulting from early August. Jess has been in Coffs Harbour area for some time, studying and working for various organisations around town. Workshops we are conducting in the near future will incorporate our ethos of psychology and wellness. Keep an eye on our website at www.apawc.com.au or find us on Facebook under Australian Psychology and Wellness Centre. If you need any information about our conference area or to book an appointment with one of our psychologists, please contact our practice manager Nadine, who is more than happy to address your individual needs. Phone: 6653 7489.

By Nicola Taylor - Director Girlfit

WHY I TRA

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IN &

one are the days when I trained purely for looks (well mostly, anyway!) The perception that thin is beautiful has been changing over the past decade, and most women are seeing the bigger picture and taking more of a lifestyle approach. I admit in my younger days I trained to maintain ideal weight or to impress that special man. But today I train for a host of other reasons, that include stress management, better sleep, increased mental sharpness, clearing the mind (kids and paperwork), flexibility, muscle tone and strength, stronger bones and to reach my various fitness goals. And of course, I can’t forget about the high I get from all of those endorphins (the happy chemicals) the body produces after a hard exercise session. I am blessed to have three work areas of my life that I love with all my passion.

I own Sabai-Beyond Traditional Beauty Being happy in my work makes me a Therapy. Being a therapist for 17 years, better mum, lover, friend, instructor, I still love pampering women manager, mentor and most and making them feel importantly, provides a sense good about themselves. of achievement in my life I am also the Group that I’m on my way to livRemember to spend time with Fitness Manager at the ing a happy and fulfilled d those you love an u Coffs Coast Health life adventure. yo e cherish any tim Club, where I instruct To each and every .” er th ge to can spend 6 classes a week and amazing lady, keep manage a team of 22 inspiring those around Instructors. Together, we you. Remember to spend are growing the awareness of time with those you love and health and fitness and improving cherish any time you can spend so many people’s lives. I am also a mentor together. Take time to listen, to laugh and for the Australian Institute of Personal most importantly, have fun! trainers. And I have, of course, Girlfit, Until next month, train hard and love which is my baby! life! - Nic. Girlfit has grown so much in four years and hopefully will be around for a long the plug! time to help women of all fitness levels feel comfortable and happy in their own Nicola Taylor - Director Girlfit 0417 045 825. skin.

“

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Amart Sports has completed a major refit of their store to give you the best shopping experience ever ... with all your fitness and sport needs covered!

sports

hat is Amart Sports? Amart Road, Mountain, Urban or looking for a kid’s Sports has been bringing the bike, Goldcross Cycles has your bike. We have all best sporting gear to Austrathe big brands, like Boardman, Fuji, Mongoose, lians for 37 years. We have JetBlack and GT, plus loads of parts and acceseverything you could need with all the bigsories in-store! Goldcross offers all customers a gest brands under one roof, but the best free $79 bike fit with all bike purchases, along thing about Amart Sports are our with a free $49 service voucher for ridiculously low prices. That’s your new bike’s first service. Our why we’re Australia’s first dedicated workshop mechanics Our dedicated choice whe when it comes to are always on board to offer workshop footwear, fitness and expert advice and support ways mechanics are al pert all your spo sporting needs. and will service your bike to r ex on bo ard to offe t When shop shopping at optimize its performance. or advice and supp ur Amart Spo Sports, you can yo e What community support and will servic its be sure you you’ll receive the does Amart participate bike to optimize cheapes cheapest prices. In fact, in? Amart Sports understands performance.” if you find an identithe importance of supporting ca cal product in any the local community and offers A Australian retail store a community kickbacks program at a lower price, we’ll beat that assists local clubs and schools secure it by 10%†. much needed funds to use toward sports

“

What’s new at Amart Sports? We have recently undergone a brand n new refit, making your in-store shoppi experience even better. Along ping with a wide selection of fitness, footwear, equipm equipment and sporting clothing, we’re now home to one of Australia’s largest cycling brands, Goldcross Cycles. Whether you’re into

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purchases. All local clubs and schools are invited to join. Ask about the community kickbacks program when you’re next in-store. Bailey Centre 150 Pacific Hwy Coffs Harbour 6652 7500. www.amartsports .com.au

Coffs Coast Nutrition

Sheree, Louise, & Brooke

If you want to improve your health, have increased energy, or manage a weight problem, but don’t know where to start or can’t get motivated, then the friendly team at Coffs Coast Nutrition can help! We have the expertise to help manage conditions such as diabetes, insulin resistance, thyroid disorders, irritable bowel, coeliac disease and food intolerances, using dietary modifications.

Same sh*t different day If that about sums up how you’ve been feeling, read on. For many of us, winter is traditionally a time to eat hearty food (and plenty of it), sleep more, ease up on the bikini-body exercise and generally indulge one’s inner sloth. Layered clothing is entirely appropriate, and one-morebite moments are the norm rather than the exception. Strangely enough, we tend to fatten up a little. The digestion can become a tad sluggish. Buttered toast and warm desserts take their toll on energy levels, and you wonder where the spark has gone ... If you feel bloated, heavy, lethargic; if you’re always tired, or blue, or suffer headaches or sinus trouble; or merely wish you could lighten the load, consider colonic irrigation with Kate at Flushed With Health. Gentle, safe, hygienic and effective. Check it out.

Coffs Coast Nutrition is the only health, fitness and nutrition practice in the Coffs Harbour area which has Accredited Practising Dietitians on staff Mon-Fri. Our Dietitians/ Nutritionists (Louise Williams and Sheree Riley) have at least 5 years’ university study in nutrition, dietetics and science, and Louise is also the only Accredited Sports Dietitian on the Coffs Coast. Why trust your health to anyone else! Louise and Sheree are accredited with DAA, the national association of the dietetics profession. DAA has credentialing systems for the titles ‘Accredited Practising Dietitian’ (APD) and ‘Accredited Nutritionist’ (AN) which are protected by law. To check whether your dietitian or nutritionist is accredited with DAA go to www.daa.asn.au or phone 1800 812 942. Our exercise specialist (Brooke Henry) has a degree in human movement and is registered with Fitness Australia. She can provide individualised exercise plans to anyone wanting to lose weight or get fit. The friendly team at Coffs Coast Nutrition understand that everyone is different, and there is no “one size fits all” nutrition and exercise program. We offer solutions that fit with your busy lifestyle, and believe that food should be enjoyed and that your diet shouldn’t feel restrictive, complicated or boring! Ph: 6652 7529 e: reception@coffscoastnutrition.com.au w: www.coffscoastnutrition.com.au

Jan Young’s Beauty Gallerie. Winter – Dry Skin, Flaky, Itchy? Cold weather means that our skin becomes a little drier and de-hydrated – there is an easy way to beat this with an extra exfoliation treatment and adding a serum to your daily skin program. We have many serums and treatments in both ASAP and Environ. Why not try ASAP Body Scrub and Body Moist treatment – Back, Arms and Decolletage OR Environs Dermalac and Vit A body oil treatment, just $40. Treat your skin during winter with a special Environ Collagen Facial with intensive active ingredients enhanced with the addition of Sonophoresis (ultrasound) for deeper penetration of the serums, leaving the skin plumper, moisturised and glowing. OR the ASAP Ultimate Hydration Facial using Vit A, B and C to rejuvenate and revitalise. Both facials are on special July 29 to August 14, which includes a complimentary eyebrow wax and eyelash tint valued at $30. All this for JUST $75! Don’t forget race week, girls: 29 July to 31 July. Eyelash tint, eyebrow wax, eyebrow tint, half leg wax for just $50, or shellac manicure and mini pedicure for just $45. Look forward to seeing you soon - Jan.

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We make your health a priority Beachside Radiology has always applied certain principles to the way it does business. From the very young to the very young at heart, treating patients as people and not just numbers has resulted in Beachside Radiology having a reputation of being professional, employing skilled staff and using modern equipment. The experienced staff is able to provide a wide range of examinations types across many modalities. Beachside Radiology has a large contingent of staff and equipment, which best enables them to handle same day appointments wherever possible. Not only is there often no wait time for an appointment, but by using leading technology the images are instantly provided back to the person who referred you. The sooner the referrer gets the images and reports, the sooner they can respond to you.

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To make things even quicker for you, Beachside can accept any valid referral form and you can make an appointment by walking in, over the phone or on the website.

Dr. Jeremy Allen General Practitioner

Beachside Radiology BULK BILLS all Medicare Claimable Services. They offer the most modern approach to all aspects of diagnostic imaging, such as MRI, General X-ray, Screening, Computed Tomography (CT), OPG, Mammography, Bone Density, Interventional Procedures and 3D/4D Ultrasound, including an elective non-referred 3D imaging for obstetrics. The non-diagnostic 3D Pregnancy Package is available without a referral form and a gift certificate can be provided, making it the perfect gift for an expectant mother.

Dr Jeremy Allen has recently moved to

general practice with a country feel based

Coffs Harbour after spending the past

in the heart of town, located on the corner

seven years as the local doctor in the

of Azalea Ave & McLean Street. The clinic

small farming community of Condobolin

comprises Dr Jeremy Allen, nurse Mandy and

in Central West NSW.

newly appointed receptionist Karen, offering

Dr Jeremy, along with his wife, son and soon

a comprehensive range of general practice

to be second child, made the shift to be

services, including: family care, check-ups,

closer to our beautiful beaches and enjoy the

health assessments, elderly services, nursing

coastal lifestyle with his young family.

home visits and flexible appointment times.

Dr Jeremy brings with him a passion for

All new patients are offered full consultations

helping people teamed with a love of science

with both Dr Jeremy and nurse Mandy

For a place that cares and makes your health the priority, come in and see the team at Beachside today.

and endeavours to connect with and improve

& the practice offers bulk billing to

the quality of life for all of his patients.

concession & health care holders, children &

Allen Medical Centre is a modern family

pensioners. Home visits can also be arranged.

We’ve got all the top brands across Road, Mountain, tain, Urban and Kid’s bikes. We have over 100 bikes in-store so whatever you’re looking for, we’ve got your bike, plus loadss of parts and accessories in-store.

COFFS HARBOUR

With every new bike purchased Goldcross will provide a free $79 bike ﬁt along with a free $49 service voucher for your new bike’s ﬁrst service.

Welcomes...

With a dedicated workshop in-store, & professionall mechanics on site, our team will help you keep your bicycle safe and performing at its best!

OUR WORKSHOP IS BACKED BY A EE. 100% WORKSHOP SERVICE GUARANTEE.

KID’S BIKES

MOUNTAIN BIKES SAVE $

SAVE $

Girl’s F40 16” Bike REG $169

199

329

130

499

Women’s Palomar REG $379

Timberline REG $629

ROAD BIKES SAVE $

499

SAVE $

Boy’s F50 Mountain Bike REG $249

BMX BIKES

SAVE $

SAVE

200

1299

Inm n BMX Inman REG $569

SAVE

600

1 Carbon Road Bike 2299 Podium REG 2899

Road Comp Bike REG $1499

SAVE

150 MEMBERS ONLY COMPETITION

Allll He H elme e lm me ets et

To enter, simply spend $150 or more in-store and tell us in 25 words or less:

Cyc C Cy yc y clle e Cllo othing ot ng

249

Garmin Forerunner 410 GPS Heart Rate Monitor REG $399

Bundle includes: • Edge 510 • Mounts (standard and out-front) • Premium heart rate monitor • Speed/cadence sensor

399

Garmin Edge 510 Bundle e

‘How would you use a GoPro Camera in Coffs Harbour?’ See in-store and online for full terms and conditions.

brands savi sa ngs ben efits brands

savings ben efits

brands savi ngs

Cheapest in Australia or we’ll beat it by 10%† Promotional offers are valid from 01/08/13 until 31/08/13 unless sold out. Due to space restrictions, certain items may not be available in all stores. Offers not available for purchase online. Occasionally due to unforeseen circumstances beyond Amart Sports control, some items may not be available. Offers cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or discount cards. Stock may vary by store. While stock lasts. No rainchecks on advertised products. Promotional offers only available at the Amart Sports Coffs Harbour store. †If any other Australian retail store other than Amart Sports has a lower advertised or ticketed price on an identical item which is currently in stock, upon confirmation, we will beat that price by 10%. Applies to internet sites only where the retailer also has an Australian shopfront. Item must be identical in brand, style, colour, weight, size and packaging. The offer must be genuine – offered to the general public and not an exclusive deal. We reserve the right to limit the number of items sold to one unit per customer, per day. Îllustrations, photos and packaging are only a representative of the products advertised, variations may occur from store to store. The images are for illustrative purposes. All bikes are fitted with bells, reflectors and brakes as per Australian Standards. Sizes may require special orders on demand. Goldcross Cycles reserves the right to limit purchases to normal retail quantities. #Entry is only open to Australian residents aged 18 years or over that are members of the Promoters Loyalty Club Team Amart Sports. Employees of the Promoter and their immediate families are ineligible to enter. This is a game of skill. Chance plays no part in determining the winner. The Competition commences at 9am (AEST) Thursday 1st August 2013 (AEST) and closes at 5pm on Saturday 31st August 2013 (“Promotional Period”). To enter, a loyalty member must register their membership and spend over $150 in one transaction in the Amart Sports Coffs Harbour store during the promotional period. The customer must then fill in the competition entry form and log book located at the cash registers and explain in 25 words or less “How you would use a Go Pro Camera in Coffs Harbour?”. All entries must be received by the Promoter within the Promotional Period. Multiple entries are permitted subject to each purchase being processed separately and otherwise in accordance with the above.

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COFFS HARBOUR

A S S O C I A T I O N

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Fun and fitness for everyone. Want to learn? We can help you. It never rains at Sportz Central! Basketball – the game the world plays. Our programs are for all ages and all abilities.

asketball – come and join the game that is played all year round, rain, hail or shine. Coffs Harbour Basketball has a long and proud history of conducting quality basketball programs for men and women, boys and girls. A wide range of competitions, clinics and representative programs are conducted all year round, catering for ages from 4 years to over 50s. The next season of competitions and clinics are getting underway, with players and teams invited to join. Competitions: CHBA conducts competitions for senior men and women, high school boys and girls and Year 2 - 6 boys and girls. With 8 players per team, the cost is just under $9 per senior player per game and just $7.50 per player for high school and Saturday competition players. Tuesday night – senior women’s competition with A, B and C grade. Wednesday night – senior men’s competition with A, A reserve, B and C grade. Friday evening – high school competition for players in Yr 7, 8, 9, 10. Saturday – primary school competition for players in Yr 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Low rings, small balls and modified rules are played in the Year 2, 3 & 4 competitions to assist with skill development. Clinics: all clinics will be conducted by Development Officer Robert Linton. Aussie Hoops: an excellent learn-to-play program for children aged 8 - 12 years. Time: Thursday afternoon, 4pm - 5pm. Commencing: 25 July for 9 weeks. Cost: $110,

which includes an Aussie Hoops T-shirt, basketball and bag. Tall Ball: an excellent program for tall kids aged 8 - 12 years, developing general skills while focusing on coordination, foot speed and self confidence. Time: Thursday afternoon, 5pm - 6pm. Commencing: 25 July for 9 weeks. Cost: $110, which includes a basketball and basketball jacket. Pink Ball: a beginner basketball program for girls only, introducing young girls to all the basic basketball skills and giving them the confidence to join a team. Time: Saturday morning, 10am - 11am. Commencing: 10 August for 6 weeks. Cost: $50, which includes a pink basketball and player registration. Blue Ball: a beginner basketball program for boys only, introducing boys to all the basic basketball skills and giving them the confidence to join a team. Time: Saturday midday, noon - 1pm. Commencing: 10 August for 6 weeks. Cost: $50, which includes a blue basketball & player registration. Skills Development Program for High School Players: a new and exciting program for high school players who are not part of the CHBA representative program. Time: 4.30 - 5.30pm. Commencing: 13 August for 6 weeks. Cost: $30. Contact Details: To register for any of the competitions or clinics, email Carlee Hardaker, or visit the CHBA website Email: carlee@coffsharbourbasketball.com.au Phone: 6651 1452 Website: www.coffsharbourbasketball.com.au

Move Better. Feel Better. Look Better.

Music, Mystery and Magical Moves are on show at the Sacred Lotus Bellydance 'Gala Showcase'.

Upcoming Workshops Living Well Chiropractic Pilates for Golfers We all face health challenges during our lives, but there are some that are particular to women. Pregnancy is one of these. The changes in a mother’s body are truly amazing, but they can also cause increased pressure on the spine and nervous system.

I will run you through a series of exercises targeting strength and flexibility in the areas that you need it most to improve your golf and not injure yourself. You will be able to do many of these as a warm-up on the golf course. Bring a golf club with you.

Weight gain, postural changes and hormones make it more likely for a pregnant woman to suffer with spinal dysfunction and pain – not to mention the subsequent strain caused by lifting and breastfeeding a baby.

Pilates for breast cancer sufferers/survivors

Some women accept this (along with the sleepless nights) as something they simply have to put up with. But they don’t. Chiropractic offers the perfect solution. At a time when women want to steer clear of pharmaceuticals and invasive procedures, Chiropractic can improve spinal health and function, laying the ground for an easier labour and introduction into parenthood.

Pilates for your feet

Chiropractors Judith McNeill and Gillian Allport, from Living Well Chiropractic, both specialise in the treatment of pregnant women and infants. They use gentle and safe techniques to better align the spine and pelvis. With newly extended clinic hours (open Monday – Saturday), there is no better time to have your spine and nervous system professionally examined.

Find out more about how to do a safe yet effective Pilates workout, whether you are suffering from the disease and want to control it or you want to help prevent this disease from ever happening to you.

Yes, it’s OK to exercise once you are able to and no matter what level you are at, there is always something you can start doing – especially with your upper body. Your poor feet! You suffocate them in shoes, you never stretch or strengthen them, so of course you’re going to end up with foot problems like hammer toes, Achilles tendonitis, Plantar fasciitis, feet rolling in or out etc. Come along and keep your feet happy! Pilates for Osteoporosis

Maximum of 8 for all workshops. Bookings essential. 1 hour each @ $25 per workshop and take home tools. No prior knowledge of Pilates necessary.

Sacred Lotus Bellydance Winter Hafla Shimmy the night away and free your inner Bellydancer at the 7th Annual Sacred Lotus Gala Showcase and dance party. Featuring international artist Amera Eid and nationally acclaimed performers Shekhinah Morgan, Xaeda of Sacred Lotus Bellydance and showcasing the talents of the coast's local Middle Eastern Dance schools, stunning solo artists and professional Arabic percussion troupe Tarab, then party the night away with African drummers KabilaMoja and Dj Tone. There is something for everyone! Glamour, glitz and shopping fun in the market bizarre with Beautiful Boho, Tribal Belly and Amera’s Palace belly dance boutique stores. Showcase tickets are on sale now through the C.ex Coffs Booking Office on 6652 3888. Tickets are only $20 adult and $15 for children under 12 years. All other information about the Hafla and Gala Showcase can be found on www.thesacredlotus.com.au

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Are you being served?

hen choosing a doctor to perform your procedure, there are a number of considerations. Firstly, it makes sense to choose one that is trained and experienced in cosmetic procedures. These doctors will be members of the Cosmetic Physicians Society of Australasia, Australian Society of Cosmetic Physicians or Australian College of Cosmetic Surgery. These organisations ensure and promote high quality cosmetic medicine and ongoing training for their members.

Dr. Joe

Much confusion exists in the general public as regards to who is the best person to administer cosmetic medical procedures and the basic requirements to carry out these procedures. You may wish to consider the following to help you in that decision.

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Secondly, while many doctors can perform a procedure well, it is important to ensure they follow up their treatments with good after care. Doctors that visit on 3 to 4 monthly visits are unable to provide this. A patient should feel at ease to ask questions at all stages of their treatments. They should feel that the procedures have been explained in appropriate detail and have a sense of confidence with their doctor. A good patient/doctor rapport is essential for a satisfactory outcome. The drugs and most procedures in cosmetic medicine cannot be given to a patient without first seeing a doctor and without doctor follow-up if concerns occur. So, if someone is treating a patient without

such doctor assessment, they are ignoring established guidelines. It is also illegal for the doctor to supply the products to any ‘would be nurse’ without seeing the patient, as is taking financial kickbacks for the supply of these drugs. This practice has occurred in many so called ‘good’ clinics, as well as nurses being sent out to beauty clinics. This raises 2 major concerns. Firstly, the issue of supervision and secondly the issue of quality assurance. Where Schedule 4 drugs are used, doctor supervision applies. This means that a qualified medical practitioner should be on site at all times when nurses are treating to provide patient assessment and emergency treatment if necessary. At a beautician centre they do not have any facilities to assist in an emergency. Furthermore, medical clinics must provide strict protocols on cleaning, sterilization, drug handling and storage. It is unlikely that beautician centres have expensive approved vaccine fridges to ensure correct temperatures of sensitive drugs like the wrinkle relaxers, medical waste removal systems or resuscitation facilities. Well, it might startle you to know that the majority of doctors/nurses out there have

virtually no formal training. Literally, they have obtained a bottle of wrinkle relaxer/ filler and have been told to inject ‘here’, ‘here’ and ‘here’ on 2 or 3 patients and then left to their own devices without further guidance. Essentially, their patients become their guinea pigs. There is no concept of what anatomical feature is being injected and why, no concept of side effects and how to treat them and no idea of tailoring the treatment to the patient’s unique features. Most injectors are not attending regular conferences or educational updates. It costs to do so, and that would decrease profit margins. Many casual injectors keep their wrinkle relaxer in a non TGA approved fridge for weeks until used up. This only decreases the strength of the product and makes for an ineffective treatment. Many injectors may not put adequate doses in or alternatively, use grossly excessive doses. Also, they may be using the cheapest products and not necessarily those that would give the best results. It all amounts to reduced safety and poor outcomes. As a patient, you need to ask, “Who is performing the procedure?” not, “How much is it?”

Fitness training and Yoga Practice

midway store Many people do not easily adjust to weather changes, especially the cold, and they tend to fall sick. How good would it be to happily welcome winter this year, knowing if you feel lethargic and your system is in need of some nourishment that help is on hand? Yin Chiao is a natural Chinese dietary supplement designed to remedy colds and flu and is touted as being the closest thing to a cure for the common cold. Chinese herbalists believe that cold and flu germs remain on the ‘surface’ for a short period of time after entering the body. When you initially experience any type of

symptom connected to colds or flu, then it is during this critical time that taking Yin Chiao can be highly advantageous as a defence mechanism. Other soothing traditional remedies available for coughs and sore throats are African Sea Coconut mixture and Watermelon Frost lozenges. We also stock a range of liniments, balms, rubs and heat patches for muscular aches, pains and arthritic twinges, which are sometimes more prevalent in the cooler months. Come in and have a look at our range.

How do they fit together? Yoga is a system, a step by step process to bring out the best version of you so that you can function effectively in all areas of your life. Yoga strengthens the body, stretches tight muscles, calms distorted breathing, settles the nervous system and stills a busy mind. Yoga integrates and balances the body and the mind so that we can move towards wellbeing. Fitness, on the other hand, is about building a strong and stable body from the foundation up. Our programs are designed to improve the natural function of the body by training the primal movements of squatting, lunging, pushing, pulling, bending and twisting. Yes these movements are also a part of Yoga but unless done under load and at high intensity, they will not improve your fitness. Our programs use Kettlebells, TRX and bodyweight training to build strength and

stability from the core out. I believe that Yoga and Fitness work together and complement each other. We all need exercise for health and wellbeing. This has been well documented by the medical profession; however, we also need to practice Yoga – all Eight Limbs – to build a strong, calm mind. Yoga and Fitness together build a strong body and a calm mind so that we can face the chaotic fast paced world we live in with minimal stress and maximum wellbeing. We need a healthy, balanced and vital body to carry our mind and our heart out into our relationships with family and friends and enjoy all that life has to offer. Contact sue@fitfactorypt.com.au or through Innergy Yoga facebook page to find out how we can help you.

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Vitamins with Go Vita Coffs Central.

traceyhayes.

The old saying that ‘oils ain’t oils’ rings true in the world of Omega 3. But what’s the difference and what do they do? Tracey gives you some facts about the most popular Omega 3 oils we take today that help us feel tip-top.

ish oil An oldie but a goodie, we’re talking about fish skin oil here, the most commonly used fish oil, not cod liver oil (more about that one

later).

Made from oily fish such as mackerel, herring and salmon, fish oil is abundant in omega-3 essential fatty-acids called EPA & DHA.

red, prawn-like crustaceans. What sets Krill apart from fish oil is namely two substances called Astaxanthin and phospholipids. The potent antioxidant Astaxanthin is a great anti-inflammatory for rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. It has been shown that Krill oil can produce its benefits on joint inflammation in around 7 to 14 days! Other benefits include supporting healthy cholesterol levels, promoting a healthy immune response and preventing muscle fatigue in athletes.

It’s a challenge for your body to make these on its own, so therefore important to get them through diet or supplements. Fish oil is Virtually all of the EPA and DHA in Krill oil proven to support cardiovascular health, help are bound to phospholipids, little ‘packages’ depression, improve concentration in kids, that deliver the omega 3 to your cells, making and help provide relief of inflammatory them really easy for you to absorb conditions like arthritis and which is great news and for this, eczema. It’s the DHA in fish Krill oil gets a big tick! oil that has an important role to play in the Cod Liver oil We know, As with healthy development Cod Liver oil … eww! Stop any health of baby during making faces and bear u supplement yo pregnancy. with us, OK? It’s come a s ay w al consider using, long way! re ca th The right dose is al he

“

important, so find what it is for you.

consult your specialist first .”

And a word on quality … PCBs, dioxins, pesticides and mercury … who needs them? But chances are, most of you are unknowingly using fish oil loaded with these nasties. So how can you tell if it’s pure and fresh? Thankfully, really pure fish oil exists and there are a few easy ways to tell the cheap and nasty from the pure and fresh. Krill oil Krill oil is touted as a stronger option than fish oil, where you need to consume fewer capsules than its ocean counterpart, but there is a big difference and in fact, you can take both at the same time. It’s made from Antarctic Krill, which are 58 coffs coast focus.

Cod Liver Oil contains lesser amounts of EPA & DHA. But it’s loaded with Vitamin A and the sunlight vitamin, D, making it a great oil to take during the cooler months. It supports your immune system and maintains the integrity of the cells that line your respiratory tract. The oil of choice for your ankle-biters and anyone prone to colds and flu in winter.

What type of exercise program should you do? Most exercise programs to improve general fitness or to look great and feel fantastic will comprise of a warm up, strength, fitness and flexibility training. hese four components are essential for the entire population. As you age, your lean muscle and strength deteriorates, your heart and lungs struggle to keep up with your daily life and your body stiffens and tightens up.

The warm up is completed to make sure your body is ready for exercise. It wakes you up, gets blood pumping throughout your body, warms your muscles and starts firing your nerves. One of the Flexibility training is the final and main reasons why injuries generally most forgotten occur primarily at home component of your workout. and in the workplace without good flexibility dy bo The human is due to the lack of a you will increase your g in is an amaz t ap ad warm up. Not many chances of getting injured n ca at machine th u yo ng hi people go for a five in your daily life. Poor yt an t to almos u yo n he W minute walk or a light posture, bad backs, crook it. at throw ts easy, gh ei w ride in preparation necks, shoulder pain ur yo d fin to do the vacuuming, and dicky hips can all be make it harder.” mow the lawn or chop prevented and treated with wood. appropriate flexibility training. Muscles tighten whether you Strength training is primarily exercise or not and need to be kept performed to create lean muscle supple. A full range of motion around a tissue. This muscle is your kilojoule burning joint can only occur with flexible muscles. engine. The more lean muscle you have, the

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As with any health supplement you consider using, always consult your healthcare specialist first.

more kilojoules you will burn every day. People who perform strength training develop a higher metabolism and therefore burn more kilojoules than those that don’t, even when sleeping. Other reasons why you need to strength train are for internal organ protection, injury minimalisation, ease of daily tasks, improved bone density and stronger ligaments and tendons. By the way, you will also look and feel better too.

Tracey Hayes, Naturopath Go Vita Coffs Central 6652 2993

You will perform fitness training for a number of reasons but primarily, it also helps to burn kilojoules. Fitness training can be performed

So there you have it. A better understanding?

over longer periods than strength training and therefore is great for immediate kilojoule burning. Strength training is normally done in doses of around 15 repetitions each, whereas fitness training is done in doses of around 15 minutes each exercise. Fitness training is also fantastic for heart and lung health, reducing high blood pressure and also avoiding those embarrassing times when you run out of breath walking up stairs.

Whether you workout with a personal trainer or group exercise instructor every session or not, you need to keep pushing yourself. The human body is an amazing machine that can adapt to almost anything you throw at it. When you find your weights easy, make it harder. When you don’t feel as puffed on the bike, increase the level. My recommendation is to search locally for a program, club or trainer that provides assistance with all of these components. Together we can make the goal, make the time and MAKE IT HAPPEN! See you next month …

Award Winning

Designer Calls Coffs Home

esigner Living Kitchens owner, Jamie Barnes, says that although the company has been servicing the builders in Coffs for over thirty years, the new showroom also needed to cater for the renovation segment of the market. With this in mind, he enlisted the services of Marcus Phillips, an award winning interior designer with 26 years’ experience in kitchen design.

Marcus won his first Kitchen Design Award in 1989 and a number of awards since then, including outright winning Kitchen of the Year. Moving to the country three years ago, he has designed two complete showrooms, the last of which won Showroom of the Year 2013. As an Interior Designer, Marcus has always

Marcus started his career in design after attending Julian Ashton’s Art School at The Rocks in Sydney, where he completed a fine arts course. He later went on to complete an advanced interior design degree.

maintained a focus on creating estheti-

In the mid 1980s, Marcus commenced his kitchen design career with one of Australia’s best known kitchen companies in Sydney and a few years later, took up the position of Head Designer in Brisbane. Marcus then went on to hold that position nationally (Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane). As head designer, he was responsible for training designers and running the design team in three states.

and relatives and how the new kitchen

cally pleasing, practical kitchen design that takes into account how it relates to the lifestyle of the owners. “It’s important for me to find out how many in the family, how they like to entertain their friends should relate to the adjacent areas,” Marcus said. After working for a German kitchen

Recently, Designer Living Kitchens opened their brand new showroom in Coffs Harbour, adding to the existing locations of Port Macquarie, Laurieton and Ballina.

company a few years ago, Marcus says that the European experience has reinvigorated his desire to create functional design along with a ‘wow factor’ in every kitchen.

coffs coast focus 59

C O R A M B A H O T E L

Your Heading Here!

O R A R A VA L L E Y A X E M E N R U G B Y L E A G U E F O O T B A L L C L U B PRESIDENT GLENN SOPER IS PROUD OF THE CLUB’S SUCCESS. T H E A X E M E N A R E E X C I T E D T O B E C E L E B R AT I N G 3 0 Y E A R S AT THE CORAMBA HOTEL.

hat was your earlier career, and club requires family involvement and commitment, how did your career progress whether playing, sponsoring or volunteering and to the role of the President of this is reflected in the families who have committed the Orara Valley Axemen Rugby to the Axemen for generations – where brothers, League football club? fathers, sons and grandsons have started as Junior Originally from Wollongong, my father and his Tomahawks and play as proud Axemen today. I family were the founding members of believe that a strong club is built on honesty the Wollongong Rugby League and the ability to be flexible within the Club, and rugby league was an playing structure. We are proud to important part of our family continue to nurture players from ON O U R R EP U TATI life. I was never going to be our Junior Club, the Tomahawks, AS ONE OF a front rower and played which enables them to show T, M O ST ES IR FA E TH fullback and centre for great club loyalty as they enter ND CO N G EN IA L A Wollongong RLFC in the the senior ranks. D TE N FA M ILY O R IE P U Illawarra comp. We moved A big supporter of the club RO G E CLU BS IN TH R U O F to the Orara Valley in has been Russell Crowe. What O LT U IS A R ES IE S. ” PH SO O 1989 and joined the local type of support has he shown? IL PH B CLU Orara Valley Axemen Club The Crowe family have been as a volunteer and committee wonderful supporters and sponsors member. I was elected President of our club for many years. Russell of the club in 2004 and apart from proudly holds our No 1 membership badge, a one year break, I have held this position to and his support throughout the years has been date. a great asset to the Axemen and the game of rugby You've been on deck for the past 15 years. league. Russell and the Crowe family support many What is your football philosophy? initiatives in the Orara Valley, and the Axemen enjoy Our reputation as one of the fairest, most their support of grassroots rugby league. congenial and family oriented clubs in the Group is In your opinion, what is the secret behind the a result of our club philosophies. Being part of any club's success?

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60 coffs coast focus.

Realistically there are no secrets to our success, other than has supported all facets of rugby league. Community support we have always had close, hard working committee members has been integral in the success of the many events such as who have all had the common goal of maintaining a family the Orara Valley Axemen Sevens Tournaments, City/Country oriented club. It is important to note that our present matches and NRL trial games. Organisations such as Men of committee has over 200 years of combined service to League, Women in League and the McGrath Foundation are the Axemen, an indication that our success as a supported by local clubs. The Coffs Harbour community club has been built around common goals has been an important part of our club being able that our committee aim for. Our playing to raise much needed funds for these great success is the result of many key players causes. TH E CO FF S in the last 30 years. Although these Orara Valley Axemen will be H A R BO U R key players have enabled the Axemen celebrating 30 years in November. S A H CO M M U N IT Y T N A to win several premierships in all What celebrations do you have RT PO BE EN A N IM B U CL grades, I believe it is every player R planned to make this a milestone? U O F PA RT O A IS E R TO E BL who has pulled on the green and The Axemen are excited to be A G BE IN FU N D S ED D EE N gold and given 110% each week celebrating 30 years and on 16 CH U M EAT FO R TH ES E G R that have made the club the success November have organised celebrations CAU SE S. ” it is today. at Coramba Hotel. Although in the early Why rugby league and not AFL? stages, we are planning to invite as many I guess it’s a bloke thing that rugby past players, committee members, sponsors league appeals to me personally. I believe that and supporters to celebrate this special occasion as rugby league is the ultimate contact sport which possible. The event will include Club memorabilia from develops a level of strength, agility, speed and tenacity in a the last 30 years, guest speakers and entertainment. It will be a safe, competitive environment. great opportunity for old mates to catch up and reminisce over Why do you think rugby league is important to the Coffs dinner and a quiet ale or two. Harbour community? Thanks Glenn. Coffs Harbour is a proud sporting city and over the years

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coffs coast focus 61

Need to do some hard landscaping?

one-stop garden and landscape shop Total Gardens is a ‘one-stop’ garden and landscape shop, with an extensive range of plants for most situations plus all the extras to help them to grow and thrive – fantastic soil mixes to plant them into and a variety of mulches to keep the weeds down as well as conserve moisture. If you want to ‘pretty’ things up a bit around the yard, we also have decorative gravels, ornaments, pots and statues, and every yard should have a pond or water feature.

a need in Coffs Harbour for a provider of

Nothing like the sound of running water to help you relax. Need to do some hard landscaping?

Coast, working in the garden and landscape

Total Gardens also has a good range of aggregates, sands, concrete mix, crusher dust and roadbase. Total Gardens commenced business 25 years ago because there was

There is something rather ‘nice’ about helping

62 coffs coast focus.

quality landscape and garden supplies, as well as expert advice. A lot of things have changed around Coffs in all those years, but Total Gardens has held true to those original goals by sourcing only the best of products and keeping staff up to date with the latest trends in the industry. While it has its ups and downs with droughts, floods and the boom/bust cycle on the Coffs industry is very rewarding and for the most part, quite a relaxed experience. to improve people’s surroundings. No doubt Total Gardens will continue to do so for the next 25 years.

T.G. Jung Quarries T.G. Jung Quarries has been locally owned and operated for 50 years this year!

The Quarries supply a variety of product,

The Quarries were originally owned by Tom Jung and purchased by Kevin Smith in 1988. The business has been managed by Ray Smith for the past 20 years. Ray was born in Coffs Harbour so has a deep sense of ownership of the Coffs Coast and the beautiful area to the west known as the Orara Valley.

is loaded into a crushing plant and comes off

The business is situated 5 km west of Coffs Harbour towards the Orara Valley and is a proud supporter of many organisations in the valley, including the Axemen, The Orara Valley Progress Assn., Rural Fire Service and recently, the Glenreagh Timber Festival.

all long-term employees, as well as dozens of

Along with Kevin, Ray’s background has been all about mining – sapphires, opals and tin from north Queensland to the South Australian border and now hard rock.

ranging from dust to boulders. The raw material the belts at the other end as 7 mm, 10 mm, 14 mm and 20 mm Aggregates and Crusher Dust. The plant also produces Road Bases of various sizes, and the ‘Warrior’ produces rocks from the size of your fist up to the size of your car. Jung Quarries employs 10 local people who are sub-contractors, who keep the product going out the gate and the machines running. We are proud to have recently won a national ‘Gold Hard Hat’ award for excellence and safety in the quarrying industry. We at Jung Quarries take pride in providing quality product, service and advice to our customers.

focus on legal.

F I S H B U R N WAT S O N O' B R I E N

CHANGES TO EMPLOYEE RIGHTS Effective from 1 July 2013, the Fair Work Act 2009 has been amended to include a number of ‘family-friendly’ provisions. As a result of those amendments, a number of employee rights have changed.

he main amendments to the Act, which commenced on 1 July 2013, are:

• More employees now have the right to request flexible working arrangements. Eligible employees include parents of school age or younger children, employees who are carers, employees who have a disability, employees who are over 55 and employees who have experienced domestic violence (or are caring for someone who has). The Act has been amended to include a list of reasons why an employer might refuse the request. • Pregnant employees have the right to be transferred to a safe job. If no safe job exists, the employee is entitled to unpaid leave. This right previously only applied to pregnant employees with 12 months’ service so more employees will be entitled to transfer. However, employees were previously entitled to paid leave if no safe job is available. That entitlement is now to unpaid leave. • Pregnant employees who suffer a pregnancyrelated illness, or who suffer a miscarriage, can take unpaid special maternity leave. • A couple employed by the same employer can now take 8 weeks joint parental leave. This leave can be taken at any time within the first 12 months of the birth or adoption of a child. Previously the entitlement was 3 weeks and needed to be taken after the birth or adoption. Other amendments, which commence on 1 January 2014, include: • A requirement that employers must

“genuinely” consult with employees about changes to their regular rosters and working hours. Employers must give employees information about the change, invite employees to respond and then consider the employees’ views. • Allowing a worker who has allegedly been bullied at work to apply to the Fair Work Commission for an order that the bullying stop. This change creates a new path for employees, who previously would have had to rely on anti-discrimination legislation and workers compensation claims. The Fair Work Commission must start dealing with the matter within 14 days. • Reducing the time limit for unlawful termination applications to 21 days from 60 days. This change brings those applications in line with the time limits for general protections and unfair dismissal applications, which are already 21 days. Most of the changes are clearly aimed at giving workers some certainty that their family responsibilities will be respected at work, which we can all agree is a good thing. Of course, any increase in employee entitlements necessarily imposes a burden on employers, which can be difficult to bear; particularly for small businesses and especially at a time where much of the economy is struggling. If you would like to discuss employee entitlements, or employment law in general, please don’t hesitate to contact Fishburn Watson O’Brien’s employment lawyer Jay Clowes on 6650 7016.

coffs coast focus 63

focusinterview. with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Marketing

Johnson D F A

F i n a n c i a l

anielle, your background and experience is quite diverse – tell us a little bit about it? I have held numerous roles with different banks over the last 10 years, all which have been in lending and have kept me very busy. This experience has taken me on a journey from personal loans, debt consolidation, purchasing first homes, growing investment portfolios right through to now buying property in Self-Managed Super funds. Relocating back home to Coffs Harbour with my family has allowed me to further build on my knowledge, skills and ability to help people in most situations. I find that my variety of experience is useful for clients as I can put their mind at ease with knowledge on a broad range of financial issues. And I am always looking for new challenges and clients to help out! For those who may not be aware – what does a mortgage broker do exactly? Today a young lady asked me what I do and when I told her that I am a mortgage broker, she asked if it was a boring job. It made me laugh, but I can honestly say that I really love what I do. I get to find my clients money, through a loan which helps them buy that exciting new property which could be: the property to start a family in, build their wealth through investment or help them in retirement through self-managed super funds. A mortgage broker finds out what the client’s needs and requirements are, not just now, but also in the future and works on making it a reality. Most mortgage brokers are specialists in

64 coffs coast focus.

A d v i s e r s

lending with a good history in the field and can business and has been part of the Coffs Coast quickly source out which is the best product to landscape since 1989, and its team provides meet clients' particular needs and requirements outstanding service to their clients each and every for their own situation. Not to forget, we also time. look for the best possible rate for our clients. This When you walk through the door you know saves our clients' time and money with having there is something different; it’s the smile you’re over 25 different lenders to work with. greeted with, the fact that they are expecting you Once we find the clients' best option, we walk and know you name, not to mention that they our clients through the process, making it as easy genuinely care about their clients. This is why they and quick as possible to get approval and the have built such strong, long lasting relationships desired end result as smooth as possible. Building with their existing clients and are only growing a valued relationship with a client is important to stronger. me, so finding the best possible solution for the Heavy regulations and red tape in the client is paramount. industry must pose some challenges at The best thing – it doesn't cost times. What has been the most a cent! challenging? What inspires you about I don't see red tape as s nt ie cl the world of finance being a challenge ... it’s y I get to find m an lo a h ug ro th , and mortgages? there to protect both money y that bu em th s lp he I love the ability to my clients and myself which erty which exciting new prop ty to start assist people with and ensure that every oper could be: the pr turning their dreams client’s best interests are their wealth family in, build a lp he or and goals into reality. placed at the forefront t en through investm through t en em Nothing is more of anything that I may them in retir funds.” r pe su ed ag an enjoyable than ringing a recommend. self-m client or dropping by and The important thing is letting them know the loan to make sure clients are fully has been approved and that prepared when thinking about they can now pursue their dream buying or refinancing, and the best or build their wealth. It’s a great part of this way to do that is to come and talk with a job. mortgage broker like me. You mentioned that DFA is different to Tell us how the online virtual world has its competitors; tell us what makes it stand impacted or assisted you to deliver what out in the marketplace? your clients need? Good ol' fashioned service with a smile is rare It’s taken Mortgage Brokering to the next level to find these days. And it's exactly for this reason with service and professionalism. that I chose to work for DFA. DFA is a family We have access to up to date information 24/7

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and this flexibility allows us not to be restricted to an office, but to work remotely when we need to, which is great for our clients and productivity. We all know how important achieving a good work life balance is. What does life look like for you outside of work? As most people would know, working full-time and having a young family makes life pretty busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way! Life at the moment is about enjoying time with my husband, Geoff, and my two boys, Harry and Riley, aged six and four, on our farm. Saturday mornings are busy running around with Harry's first team sport with the Woolgoolga Soccer Club. I don't know who is more excited – Harry or me! We also spend time together as a family just getting dirty and having fun on our farm. And finishing the winter weekends with a bonfire and a bag of marshmallows – for the boys, of course! If you could give one piece of advice to anyone looking to buy a first home or investment property, what would it be? My advice to any budding investors, first-home buyers or seasoned buyers: • Get prepared by talking with a lending specialist first to see what you can do or need to do. • See what your options are; if you’re not happy where you are, let’s see what else there is for you. • Pre-approvals are important, as that gets you as prepared as you can be before doing all the hard work and finding that perfect property, rather than realising you’re not quite there yet. • Feel comfortable and ask any questions you like, as no question is a silly question. • Lastly … come and see me. Thanks Danielle.

Morrisons b e t t a

H o m e

L i v i n g

meet a

local.

Norman Howard. here are you from? I Like to think I’m from Coffs Harbour, as I was married here and both my children were born here, but I was born in Melbourne and lived there thoughout all my school years – including my apprenticeship training as a chef.

What brought you to Coffs Coast? After completing my apprenticeship as a chef in Melbourne, I moved to Coffs Harbour with my family, almost 30 years ago now. I do call this home and could not think of anywhere else in the world I would rather be.

Living? My role at Morrisons is that of Kitchen Appliance Manager and Kitchen Designer. This is a new service being offered at Morrisons Betta Home Living and one that I am really passionate about.

And what do you enjoy most about your new role? People; I love meeting people and helping with their design requirements, appliance needs, offering cooking techniques and advice, My aim s suggestions on how ay w is al s nt to best to use their ie cl for my ch ea up e appliances and of course, ak to w designing beautiful and every day and say, 'I love kitchens.

“

my kitchen'.”

When and where did you begin your career in kitchens? When I first arrived in Coffs Harbour, I continued working in the hospitality industry. I then secured a position at Nouvelle Kitchens, where I was able to pursue a career in kitchen design. Once qualified, I purchased this company and in 1999 re branded it to 'Beaumonde Design Kitchens', which operated for 12 years on the Coffs Coast. To this day, I am still the only Certified Kitchen Designer between Wauchope and Lismore. What is your role at Morrisons Betta Home

You have a lot of experience in this field. What’s the best thing about having the skill set of a kitchen specialist? I think that with all the things I have learnt over the years about form, function and aesthetics, function is the most important. You can have the best looking kitchen but if it’s designed without function in mind, it’s very hard to work in. My aim is always for my clients to wake up each and every day and say, “I love my kitchen”. And now that all my favourite things are in the same place: cooking, design, appliances and people, it makes my job all that much easier. Thanks Norman. coffs coast focus 65

focusinterview.

RICK & SUSAN F R O M GJ GARDNER HOMES

The Team at GJ Gardner Homes, multi-award winning builders.

hen did the business begin, and who are the local owners of Coffs Coast region? Rick and Susan Fischer are building more than just homes – they’re building a reputable family business. Rick, a fifth generation builder, following in his father Neil’s footsteps owned his own local carpentry contractor business in Coffs Harbour prior to joining the GJ Gardner Homes Grafton team as a supervisor almost 10 years ago. Rick then took on the opportunity to own and operate the successful Grafton business in 2006. The husband and wife team, passionate about the GJ brand, have now taken on the exciting opportunity to acquire the GJ Gardner Homes Coffs Coast business. “We are committed to building our business with a professional attitude, honesty, good service, and only use local trade contractors that we have personally ensured are of exceptional quality and outstanding value. Our high expectations and expert team will provide you with a great building experience and an investment you can be proud of.” Rick, Susan and the local team of designers, new home consultants, supervisors and administration staff are there to help with every aspect of your new home, from sourcing land, to organising finance and adding your personal design options. What makes your business unique? What type of company culture have you built? “We value honesty first and foremost. There is no better way of developing trust between ourselves, our customers and our building partners than by being truthful and honest in every, single customer and partner

66 coffs coast focus.

interaction. We’re absolutely honest in our feedback, and this is crucial in giving people transparency in the project. It’s at this stage that we build trust. “It’s through our openness with our clients and partners that we keep them informed of the project and its process. It’s not all glitz and glamour; there are going to be complications. The trick is solving the problem fast. We value our GJ Gardner’s approach to up front-price quoting, which we believe helps our customers make a more informed decision. “We have a great team; everyone is very positive What does GJ Gardner Rick , Susan and and enthusiastic. We Homes specialise in? the local team of all work hard and “For over 25 years e hom designers, new s or enjoy exceeding is GJ Gardner Homes rv consultants, supe n staff io our customers’ at have been building and administr ith w lp he expectations. Our beautiful homes are there to your new team members throughout Ausevery aspect of cing land, take initiative tralia and NZ. We home, from sour ce and an to organising fin when they notice understand people’s onal rs pe ur adding yo something that will interests vary, so we design options.” help add value to our attempt to bring a wide customers’ lives. The best range of designs which team members are positive people can customise at their to be around and enjoy working leisure. By working together with with people. We know that by having fun you, we can design and build a home that and enjoying what we do our customers will suits you, your lifestyle and your needs. You enjoy their journey.” can talk to Rick and our experienced New What is the process when a new client Home Consultants to find out how you can walks through the door? build the home you want.” “Building a house can be a daunting expe- What are the biggest mistakes most rience, and a lot of customer care is required people make when building a new throughout the process. Being sensitive home? to people’s needs, wants and emotions “Purchasing land prior to getting conthroughout the build is vital. For many of struction costs and then realising the overall our customers, building a home becomes an budget is out of reach.” extremely emotional experience.” What are the three top things to con-

“

? sider when building a new home? e “Look at your immediate needs while looking to the future. Our customers tend to build homes that suit their lifestyles now, without looking at the future “Look at your block and build a home that fits in with the natural environment and the beautiful coastal lifestyle we enjoy in Coffs Harbour. “Look at spending some extra money on the areas of your home that will add value come time to sell, such as the kitchen, bathroom and outdoor areas.” In your opinion, what is the importance of working with locally operated business? “We’re a local business with local knowledge; we use local tradespeople and local suppliers. Yes, we build homes, but we also play a part in building the community that brings all these home owners, investors and tenants together. Local builders know what’s under the soil, they know the local Councils, and their businesses are run by people who will benefit from the improved local community we create.”

Let Spanline take the stress out of renovating.

Spanline Home Additions AFTER “researching the heck out of everything,” a Korora home owner returned to a product installed in a previous home and saved some serious money. Peter and Michelle McFadyen of Korora wanted to cover their large deck with a roofline and finish to match their renovated modern house, without spending double the budget on a conventional roof extension. “I liked the Spanline product and it’s really the only product that does what I wanted, so Peter and then Mick (from Spanline) came here and we figured out a way to do what I wanted to do,” Mr McFadyen said. “I’m incredibly happy with it, and it’s been a really easy build,” he said. ”They made a lot of promises and didn’t fail to live up to any of them. “Spanline turned up when they said they would, handled all the Council approvals,

communication was great throughout, and there were no increases in fees for small changes we made.” Just a few doors from the beach and facing south, they needed a product to meet all coastal living can throw at a building. “I love the challenges of our coastal environment, so we build home additions to stand the test of time using our design experience, product range and the experience of our building team,” said Peter Pappalardo from Spanline. “Peter and Michelle have a unique home and we managed to make our addition belong there,” Mr Pappalardo said. “People walking past have stopped and commented on how good it looks and we can now use our deck whenever we want, regardless of the conditions,” Mr McFadyen said.

coffs coast focus 67

t h e tghoe o d l ee l xl p eo x p o g o loi df e l i - f el i -v i l ni vg i w n ge l w

he Living L Well Expo will be held d on o Wednesday 28 August at the Coffs Club Ex from 9am to 5pm. The focus of this year’s expo is on ‘living well’. An interactive and entertaining program is being planned for the Expo, and all community members are welcome to attend.

Coordinators of this year’s Living Well Expo 'The Good Life', say that attending the Expo is a great way for people to find out what community services are available and how to access them.

This is the seventh year the Living Well Expo has been held. "The Expo is coordinated by a group of passionate staff from local community services," said Ruth Thompson, Executive Officer of Mid Coast Communities, who provide administrative support to the group. "The group work hard to deliver a great event each year, because they understand that getting the right support at the right time is very important to people who have a disability, their families and carers."

coffs coast focus 69

t h e

g o o d

l i f e

l i v i n g

w e l l

e x p o

“ Michael Crossland is a dynamic speaker, whose mother was told ‘He will not live to his first birthday’. Michael is an accomplished businessman, elite athlete, Australian of the Year finalist and Camp Quality Ambassador. ”

The dynamic members of the working party include staff from NORTEC, Mid Coast Communities, Coffs Harbour City Council, Commonwealth Carer Respite and Carelink Centre, Coffs Support Services, Carers NSW, The Department of Human Services (formally known as Centrelink), Department of Aged Disability and Homecare, MNC Community Care Options, Coffs Coast Health & Community Care, Mid North Coast Local Health District Carer Program, Northcott and the Coffs Coast Regional Disability Association Inc. At the Living Well Expo you’ll hear from speakers and panels and find a range of local services all under the one roof, who will be more than happy to have a chat and share their information and what they can do for you. The afternoon of the expo will have a youth focus. There will be speakers, demonstrations and interactive displays covering lifestyle, education and employment options for school leavers. NORTEC and Youth Connections will be hosting an interactive ‘mindfulness’ display to close the fun filled day. This year, the expo is proud to host two dynamic and world renowned guest speakers: Pro-

fessor Patrick McGorry AO and Michael Crossland.. Professor McGorry is a leading international researcher, clinician and advocate for mental health reform. Professor McGorry was named 2010 Australian of the Year because of his “extraordinary 27-year contribution to the improvement of the youth mental health sector [that] has transformed the lives of tens of thousands of young people thee world over”. Michael Crossland is a dynamic speaker whose Mother was told “He will not live to his first birthday”. Michael is an accomplished businessman, elite athlete, Australian of the Year finalist and Camp Quality Ambassador. It is expected thatt Michael will stimulate the interest of many people and be a source of inspiration with his moving stories. With the changing face of the Disability Sector, the introduction of Self Directed Care and the commencement of Disability Care Australia (the National Disability Insurance Scheme) people with a disability, their families and carers will have greater choice about what services they receive and from whom.

Looking for A Better Way to Work?

z No-cost professional recruitment services z Labour Hire & Contract staffing

z Disability Employment Services

Advice on Government-funded wage and workplace assistance

z Investing in initiatives that encourage socio-economic growth in our region!

Call 1800 667 832 or go online to lodge a vacancy at

www.nortecltd.com.au

70 coffs coast focus.

ay w r e t t ‘the be ork’ to w

Wednesday 28 August

With this in mind, the focus of this year’s expo will be on showcasing a broad range exhibitors, community services, supports, opportunities and resources that can make a real difference in the life of people who have a disability, their families and carers. Living well is not just about being well and healthy. It’s also about feeling included, being able to participate socially and being able to contribute to the community through being involved in activities such as training and employment opportunities. “We’re proud to be the major sponsor for the Living Well Expo,” says There will be a Lisa Nichols of NORTEC, panel of local a Disability Employill be speakers who w s and ment Service in Coffs ie sharing their stor w Harbour. “We’re pasho experiences on ed ss sionate about providing ce they have ac l ca lo d un fo n, such opportunities and informatio es and working with people to available servic pport managed their su reach their potential.” networks .” Another of the featured events of the Expo will be a panel of local speakers who will be sharing their stories and experiences on how they have accessed information, found local available services and managed their support networks to enhance their quality of life. Deb Thompson of Mid Coast Com-

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munities says she recently had the pleasure of meeting and chatting with a young local Coffs Harbour resident called Patrick who gave permission to share his story. Patrick has a disability and has lived independently now for over three years. Patrick receives support from NORTEC and Lifestyle Solutions. Patrick began receiving support through a self directed care package provided by Lifestyle Solutions about two years ago and says his quality of life changed completely when he started on this program. Patrick always had a love of electronics and says he started tinkering around with electronics at the ripe old age of 5 and has built several computers. His other joy in life was photography. When Lifestyle solutions met Patrick they got to know him and found out what he would like to do with his life. Lifestyle solutions supported Patrick by organising photography lessons and these days, as part of his support package, Patrick enjoys nature walks with his support worker and taking photos. Patrick has become an accomplished wildlife and landscape photography. Patrick’s support worker talked about the transformation he has witnessed taking place in Patrick, saying that as his photography skills and his joy for life grew, so did his self confidence.

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Patrick’s story is e just one exampl t ha w d an l’ of ‘living wel n he w can happen right people find the orts pp su d services an for them . ”

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Over time, Patrick decided to take the next step and sought support from an employment service, and he found the doors of NORTEC. Patrick said that he has found NORTEC to be extremely helpful and genuinely interested in him. With their support and his newfound confidence, Patrick is now pursuing his other dream and is completing an online computer course through TAFE. He hopes to one day use these skills to support himself in gainful employment. Patrick stated that he is so much happier, his life has totally changed and he is much more confident and independent. Patrick is also a regular at the Lifehouse youth group, where he gets to socialise and meet with his friends.

Patrick’s story is just one example of ‘living well’ and what can happen when people find the right services and supports for them. Why not come along to the Living well Expo to find out what services and supports might assist you to live well?

SPECIAL GUEST

PAT R I C K M c G O R RY

T H A N K YO U N O RT E C The committee would like to thank our major sponsor, NORTEC, for their support and contribution to the event. NORTEC say that if you are looking for staff or work they encourage you to choose an organisation that invests back into your community. NORTEC operates as a not for profit organisation and because of this, is able to reinvest funds back into our community.

To take control of your individualised support package contact us:

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NO NORTECâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sole purpose is to build stronger communities and they aim to achieve this by investing in initiatives, sponsorships and community programs that encourage spo growth in our region.

h This is the sevent ng vi Li year the po has been Ex l el W is held . The Expo a group by coordinated f af st of passionate unity m m from local co services . â&#x20AC;?

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At NORTEC, people arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t treated like a number. They have friendly staff and when you enter their job search support, they truly listen to your needs and can provide you with access to work-related gear, training or any other support you need to get you into work. At NORTEC you have access to computers, phones and have a one-stop webpage with all listed jobs in your area. NORTEC have been well known for being a Job Network Provider but they are also now contracted to deliver Dis-

ability Employment Service. Their specialist consultants can liaise with employers on your behalf to assist you into work. If you are looking for staff, NORTEC says that they can assist you whether you need one staff member or one hundred. A NORTEC consultant will listen to your needs and provide timely and professional solutions for your human resourcing needs. NORTEC state that they are able to offer government employment incentives that can help make it more affordable to employ a new staff member for your business. NORTEC encourage anyone looking for work to contact them. For more information about NORTEC, go to www.nortecltd.com.au or call 1800 667 832.

Enabling Fuller Life Experiences on the Coff Coast for 30years. Providing a variety of individualised services for people with disabilities DQG WKHLU FDUHUV WKDW DUH Ă H[LEOH UHOLDEOH FUHDWLYH DQG HPSRZHULQJ

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“ Lifestyle Solutions supports people with options to self-manage their individualised packages and help people to be supported in the way they wish, to live their lives and achieve their goals. ”

We would like to thank the following platinum sponsors for their support for the Living Well Expo: Mid North Coast Community Care Options, Lifestyle Solutions Coffs Harbour, Commonwealth Respite and Carelink Centre, Coffs Coast Health and Community Care, Key Employment, Northcott and R&R Disability Services. MID NORTH COAST COMMUNITY CARE OPTIONS (MNC CCO) is a local not-for-profit organisation providing case management, support coordination and direct services to people with a disability, frail older people and their carers living in the community and those being discharged from hospital. MNC CCO currently assists clients in the Coffs Harbour, Bellingen and Nambucca Local Government Areas. MCC CCO says, “Our Mission is to support and enable improved quality of life and independence of people living in the community on the Mid North Coast”.

way they wish, to live their lives and achieve their goals. Lifestyle Solutions has a passion for community connection and genuine partnership. nership. They believe in walking alongside people ass they explore their choices and life direction. Lifestyle Solutions look forward to thee opportunity opportunity to meet you, discuss your vision and work together together in the future. To find out more about Lifestyle So Soluolutions, contact Robyn Palmer on (02) 6651 651 3055.

For more information about MNC CCO and to find out how they can help support you or someone you know, you can contact them on (02) 6650 2000 or visit their website at www.cco.net.au

THE COMMONWEALTH RESPITE AND CARELINK CENTRE, MID NORTH COAST OAST (CRCC (CRC CC MNC) provides support to Carers. Carers rers may bee a family member, parent, partner, friend, d, neighbour neighbou ur or a significant other who provide regular ular support suppo ort on an unpaid basis to a person with a disability, chronic, terminal or mental illness or who is frail aged or has dementia. CRCC MNC provides rovides flexexxible short term, planned or emergencyy respite that meets the needs of the Carer and d the care recipient when other services are unable ble to provide provvide the support. They work closely with a broad range rang ge of service organisations to link Carers to other services that can assist them in their caring aring role.

LIFESTYLE SOLUTIONS COFFS HARBOUR supports people with disability in their aspirations to enjoy a good life in Coffs Harbour and its surrounding areas. Lifestyle Solutions supports people with options to self-manage their individualised packages and help people to be supported in the

CRCC MNC advises that they provide an afterhours respite response through their free call number 1800 052 222, 24 hours per day, 7 dayss per week. They are available anytime a Carer is experiencing an emergency or crisis in n their lives and unable to maintain their caring role. ole.

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10282.1307

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Wednesday 28 August

ployment conditions as mainstream workers; that COFFS COAST HEALTH AND COMMUNITY their jobseekers do varied and satisfying work CARE was established by Trish Plunkett 23 years with opportunities for change, promotion and ago after identifying gaps in Community Care development; and that their jobseekers develop services whilst employed as Nursing Unit Manincreased confidence and self esteem. ager at Coffs Harbour Base. CCHCC says that as Their area of service is from Iluka to Kempsey, “foundation Community Care Organisation dewith offices in Yamba, Grafton, Coffs Harbour, livering many government contracts, private and Nambucca Heads and Kempsey. You can contact brokerages services across our region, we have Key Employment on 1300 KEY JOBS or developed a unique understanding of 1300 539 5627. challenges faced by families and individuals living with a disNORTHCOTT can help you ability within our commuwith many services, includy D espite so man nity” CCHCC is proudly r ing providing Day Programs ou in s ge chan locally owned, managed s ay w (Community Participation, al ve lives , we’ and operated and has on ly re to Life Choices and Active le been ab been a committee so I’m . tt co Ageing), the Early Start North pport member of the Living Diagnosis Support Service, grateful for the su of Well Expos for many and community e.” individual and family supad years and continues to friends I have m port and the Leaving Care support this wonderful Program mentoring service. forum through financial and Teena and Kate have been receivorganisational support. Call ing support from Northcott for the (02) 6652 2536 to find out more past 20 years since Kate’s diagnosis with Ceabout CCHCC. rebral Palsy. Kate says that: “Northcott has been KEY EMPLOYMENT has been operating on the my lifeline. It has shown me direction and also Mid North Coast since 1991, specialising in the given me moments of peace. Despite so many area of training and assessment for people with changes in our lives, we’ve always been able to disability. Key Employment operate their own rely on Northcott. I’m so grateful for the support RTO, training@KeyEmployment, arranging mainand community of friends I have made”. stream accredited courses and ensuring imporYou can contact Northcott in Coffs Harbour on tant and suitable courses are designed in house (02) 6651 2366 or in Taree on 0419 766 435 or for their jobseekers. Key Employment state that email them at coffs@northcott.com.au their aim for their jobseekers is three fold: that

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their jobseekers receive the same wages and em-

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R&R DISABILITY SERVICES (formerly known as Respite & Recreation Inc) is a locally grown not-for-profit organisation that provides recreational focused respite support, day programs and a range of other individualised supports to over 280 individuals with disabilities, aged between 0 to 65 years of age, their families and their carers. R&R Disability Services say they “believe that all individuals have a right to receive support that is client focused, responsive, flexible, reliable and at times that suit them”. R&R has been in operation since 1984 and is proud to be celebrating 30 years of enabling fuller life experiences for individuals with a disability and their families living on the Coffs Coast. “Our focus is on individuals with disabilities and their carers having full community citizenship and participation.” R&R primarily receives its funds from the NSW Government through the Department of Family and Community Services, Ageing, Disability and Home Care. It also provides a significant amount of brokerage services for a number of other organi-

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sations and provides quality fee for service support for self funded individuals. THE EXPO COMMITTEE would also like to thank their Event gold sponsors: The Coffs Coast Health Club, The Department of Veterans Affairs, Coffs Harbour Support Services, Coffs Harbour City Council and CHESS Employment. Of note The Coffs Coast Health Club, located on Hogbin Drive, will be giving a short presentation on the benefits of physical exercise at the Expo. All of our gold sponsors will be available on the day to discuss their services with you and answer any questions. The Expo Committee also thank our silver sponsors for their support with ensuring the Expo is a success. Our silver sponsors include: The Mid North Coast Local Health District, Willaid Health Care Equipment, Waratah Respite Services, Feros Care, Carers NSW, Brightsky Australia and RSL Lifecare@Home. With so much support from our local community, the organising committee said, “We are sure this year’s Good Life Living Well expo will be a huge success”.

With so much r support from ou e th , ity local commun mittee organising com this re su e ar said , ‘We ving Li fe Li d oo G year’s huge a be Well expo will success.”

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The Living Well Expo will be held on Wednesday 28 August at the Coffs Club Ex from 9am to 5pm.

Key Employment Living Well is a basic human right and an aim we should all be working towards. It is a philosophy shared by the whole team at Key Employment.

ne of the keys to living well is work. Research from around the world tells us that work is one of the major factors for happiness. It helps define who we are and provides independence, a better standard of living and improved physical and mental health. Work gives us increased confidence, bigger social networks and opportunities to develop a career. Yet too often in our community this vital ingredient to living well is denied many people. For instance, only 54% of people with disability in Australia are in the workforce compared to 83% for those without disability. So Living Well is more than just a philosophy

at Key Employment. All of our action, all of our plans and The secret to all of our goals are aimed at this is our belief creating equal opportunilife skills programs. We dreams and the e th in s. nt ie ties for people with disabilcl use our Community r ou of talents at – ity so they can take their Development Team for We start with th y, not not the disabilit part in the local workforce. services to ex-offenders t the the barriers – bu The secret to this is our and refugee support .” m ea dr belief in the dreams and the and call in other agencies talents of our clients. We start for rehabilitation or personal with that – not the disability, not financial assistance. We have the barriers – but the dream. Then we put expert consultants, marketing teams our skills, our energies our contacts and our and psychologists. We use ipads, Facebook, money into achieving that dream. Twitter and are about to mount our own

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We use education and career guidance, personal support, employment preparation and

boots, driving licenses, grooming and self-improvement. We bolster confidence with Art Therapy and Self Defence classes. Our KiKASS program has found over 150 indentured apprenticeships for students with disability. In 2012 we spent over half a million dollars on levelling the playing field for people with disability who want to work. Next year we will spend even more.

YouTube channel.

Living well often means work. Key Employ-

We pay for training courses, clothes,

ment helps people with disability live well.

Employment, training & assessment services Established 1991

Looking for Work? Key helps with: Career guidance Social Inclusion Resumé Building Skills, Training & Development Job Search Job Placement Ongoing Workplace Support

Call Adam at

It’s a

FeRrvEiceE! S

ﬁnd us on facebook

keyemployment.com.au coffs coast focus 77

focustourism.

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

denezahner Winter is a great time of the year to get active, and the NAB Coffs Coast Cycle Challenge is an annual event providing a great excuse to dust off those cobwebs and get on your bike.

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ver a period of two weeks there will be a number of rides you and your family can participate in, including family and recreational rides, a National Park ride, BMX, downhill, and mountain biking and of course, the road rides. Some competitive participation may include a fee; however, most rides are free, so come and join in the fun. For more information, go to www. coffscoastcyclechallenge.com With the return of one of the globe's most prestigious motorsport events just around the corner, the 2013 FIA World Rally Championship round is surely set to turn up the heat coming into spring. The Australian leg of the WRC – Rally Australia round, which is once again to be held on the Coffs Coast, promises an international TV audience from Asia, United Kingdom and Europe. Also held in conjunction is the Coffs Coast Forest Rally – a round of the Australian Rally Championships broadcast on Channel Ten. Keep an eye out over the coming weeks for international and domestic tourists heading to the Coffs Coast to experience first-hand the difficult and trying terrain which caught out the multiple world champion, Sebastian Loeb, in 2011 and took the title down to the last round of the season. For more information, go to www. rallyaustralia.com.au Jazz lovers from around New South Wales flock to Bellingen from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 August to experience its fabulous Jazz festival, and this year will be no different. You can expect to hear the widest ever array of Jazz and Blues styles and more performances from more bands and musicians in more venues than at any previous Bellingen Jazz Festival. For the full program, artist line-up, venue information and ticket sales, visit the official Bellingen Jazz Festival website.

focusrealestate.

There are few purchases in life that carry the financial and psychological weight of buying a home.

Surfing NSW will be holding a series of clinics for juniors on 17 and 18 August, offering elite coaching and relationship building between surfers and coaches within the network. These two day clinics will help identify talent that could potentially represent NSW at the 2014 Australian Titles and further coaching at Hurley Surfing High Performance Centre. The Modball Rally is an international rally of fast cars which will be on our coast from 22 Nov. For more information on these exotic and modified vehicles that will be coming through the Coffs Coast, go to www. modball.com/coffs-harbour-modball-australia Have you viewed the Jetty4Shores Plan which is now on public exhibition? Go to: www.coffsharbour.nsw.gov.au/learning-andprospering/projects/Pages/Jetty-ForeshoresProject.aspx – the exhibition period closes on 9 August. Your submission can be made to: jetty4shores@chcc.nsw.gov.au or to; The General Manager, Coffs Harbour City Council, Locked Bag 155, Coffs Harbour, 2450. If you are a Tourism Coffs Coast member and are interested in getting more actively involved in tourism, then now is the time to consider joining a not for profit board. We will be holding our next AGM in August. This is a voluntary role; working for the whole of the Coffs Coast region is a pre-requisite. If you’re interested, then we would like to hear from you. To catch up on things happening in tourism, go to www.tourismcoffs.com.au Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/ TourismCoffsCoast If you are interested becoming a Tourism Coffs Coast member, please call our office: 6651 7766 or email info@tourismcoffscoast. com.au www.tourismcoffs.com.au

hether you are buying your first home, moving up to your dream home, or downsizing your home and your life after the kids have gone, it is important to understand the ground rules for success in the world of buying a home. While there are plenty of websites designed to help first time homeowners learn all they can, most financial experts say that there is no substitute for the good old one-on-one learning. Fortunately, most mortgage lenders, home inspectors and real estate agents will be able to provide this kind of one-on-one learning. There are five basic ground rules when it comes to buying a home and shopping smart, and they are: 1. Get your financing before you get your home There are few things in life as disappointing as losing out on the home of your dreams due to not being able to secure funding. While the desire to get out there and search for that great home is understandable, it is vital to line up the financing you will need before you start shopping for a home. 2. Look at the community, not just the home It is a good idea to look at the entire community, instead of focusing on a single home. This can be a particularly important thing to consider for those moving to a new urban or rural area, as these buyers will be unfamiliar with the local climate and lifestyle. It is crucial to determine the areas of town that are most desirable and to consider things like distance from work and local shopping opportunities. There are so many internet applications and sites that can help in this regard; however, the good old fashioned drive around the

area, of calling into local shops and schools is still the best method. The agent showing you the property should also have a thorough understanding of the area and its community. 3. Be fair with your first offer Trying to lowball a seller on the first offer may sound like sound advice from ‘well meaning’ friends, but be careful; it can backfire. The last thing you want at the start of a negotiation is getting the seller totally offside. It is important to carefully evaluate the local market, and to compare the asking price of the home with what similar houses in the neighborhood have sold for. Once again, the agent selling the home would have access to the comparative sales, as they would have studied them prior to marketing that home. The best negotiations are win/win. You as the buyer feel you’ve bought the home you want at a fair price, and the vendor feels that they have sold the home for a fair market price. Call me a tragic, but I still believe that the vast majority of people still like the idea of fairness. 4. Always get a home inspection Always investigate the home for any possible defects before exchanging the contract unconditionally. Compared to the cost of the average home, the price of a quality home inspection is virtually negligible. Hence, get a good home inspection done before you buy; always bear in mind of course, that the home was most probably priced that way because of its condition. 5. Do not alienate the sellers of the home Many real estate deals have fallen apart due to the personal animosity of the buyer and the seller. It is important to avoid alienating the seller of the home during the process, and to avoid nitpicking every little detail during the sale. Keeping the good will of the seller will help the transaction go smoothly, and it will provide the best environment for seller and buyer alike.

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Imagine your home on the Coffs Coast.

display home now open.

Come and visit our exciting new display home today.

Drop in for a chat today.

Your home should be a haven – somewhere to relax, enjoy life and be inspired.

Display home

See ﬁrsthand the love and care that goes into crafting every home we build.

3 Green Bluff Road

View the quality, innovative and inspiring design at our new display home.

North Sapphire Beach NSW 2450 Open 7 days 10am to 5pm.

Call us on 02 6653 6335 or visit online at gjgardner.com.au Photographs may depict ﬁxtures, ﬁnishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. These items include landscaping – including planter boxes, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, screens and decorative landscaping items such as fencing and outdoor kitchens and barbecues. Fischer Built Pty Ltd. BL: 191313C.