Coffs Coast i49 by Focus

Feature Story y

COFFS COAST

October 2014//issue 49

MAN B e n

F o x

Sawtell Books & Comics

coffs coast focus 3

focus

editor's note.

C O F F S C OA S T

Got a story idea? Looking to advertise in Focus? Contact us for more information.

ADDRESS: 3/57 Grafton St, Coffs Harbour POSTAL: PO Box 286, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 6650 9343 FAX: 02 6651 3798 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au iPHONE: www.focusmag.com.au/eat TV: www.focustv.com.au

contacts. EDITOR: Melly Shute melly@focusmag.com.au

SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Nicci Seccombe nicole@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Sam Dawson sam@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Chrissy Jones chrissyjones1@bigpond.com

ART DIRECTOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR DESIGNER: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC/WEB DESIGNER: Michael Marchment michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable joey@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan jeff@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Annalise Montgomery annalise@focusmag.com.au

COPY EDITOR Jo Atkins jo@focusmag.com.au

PHOTOGRAPHY: Russell Pell russellpell@gmail.com Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Coffs Coast Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

editor.

from the

Melly Shute.

Welcome to the October issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS. ctober, you’re amazing! Longer days, sunshine, dragging out the barbie and dining alfresco together. What a great time of year, then, to offer you our October edition of FOCUS. Another great big edition - a mammoth effort, considering we have been one man down with Sam Dawson in Europe, jet-setting on a well deserved break, only leaving Nicci Seccombe and myself to hold down the fort. We work hard each month to bring this magazine to market, but we couldn’t do it without the many people who get behind what we do each month … Including the many people who contact me with story ideas. FOCUS is your magazine; keep them coming! If

you know an inspirational person that you’d like me to interview, please send me an email: melly@focusmag.com.au ON THE COVER Ben Fox has built a piano for his HSC project. Ben is the youngest son of Reuben Fox of Fox Pianos, so this project was close to his heart and truly reflects his family’s lineage. IN THE ISSUE Nicole Donovan is a gorgeous woman who travels with her children, practices yoga and runs a very successful local business. Back in 2012 I lived and studied in northern India and I fell in love with not only Indian culture, but their strong family values. Paramageet Singh Bhatti is an amazing

man. His belief system is so simple; work hard for your family. Here is a guy that moved from India in the seventies with barely a dime. Since then, Paramageet has made a huge contribution to the blueberry industry in Woolgoolga. I loved interviewing Paramageet; he is such an interesting character. TOP PICTURE This photo was taken by Bruce Thomas. Bruce captured the mood of this fantastic event perfectly! This photo is Sebastien Ogier and wife Andrea Kaiser sharing a winning kiss. FINAL SAY “You know you’re in love when you can’t fall asleep, because reality is finally Melly Shute – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au better than your dreams.” Instagram: @le_mellyshute - Dr. Seuss.

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Zulu’s Dining into the Future ZULU’S RESTAURANT & BAR HAS BECOME WELL KNOWN FOR DOING THINGS JUST THAT LITTLE BIT DIFFERENTLY.

hich is why it is probably there will be African matched wines and beers, hand not going to come as a picked (and tested) by our chef, to truly complement surprise when you learn the evening. that we have decided to do Then twice a month, we will pull out all the stops, things differently again. and in addition to Banquet Saturdays, will host a The African dishes, the Veneficus Menu on a Friday. That’s probably the news backbone of the restaurant, are now going to change you are all most going to be happy with. Those crazy seasonally, bringing new styles of dishes themed dinners, of almost mad scientist in and moving old ones out as the preportions, are back! Permanently. For seasons dictate which vegetables your Friday calendar. So if you want and foods are at their optimum to know whether we are serving It will leave your d senses reeling an d! peak of flavour and freshness. a Grimm selection of Fairy Tale exhauste It won't be stopping there, Fancies, or a tantalising tale your taste buds t is gh To ensure the ni d, there though. We noticed a trend of terrifying, traumatic tastes de completely roun ched amongst our diners. for Halloween, you will have at will be African m nd So we introduce you to: to watch our Facebook page s, ha wines and beer r ou OUR WEEKEND TEASE closely. by ed) picked (and test SELECTION WITH We haven't stopped there, plement m co y ul tr to , chef BANQUET SATURDAYS AND though; we have teamed up the evening.” DEGUSTATION FRIDAYS with some local connoisseurs of Banquet Saturdays are going to liquorous delights and created a new revolutionise the way you look at Zulu's seasonal menu, completed with matching food. We will seat you, present you with an beers, wines and teas, to make the à la carte interesting starter, and then the barrage of food menu of our restaurant as equally exciting as our will begin. You will be presented with a bountiful new weekend teasers! All this will be presented in platter of side dishes and house made condiments, a nifty electronic menu, which will cut down on our before African dishes begin circulating the dining environmental impact, as well as making your selection room. Different braise and curry dishes from the menu, process both easier and more exciting. along with amazing one off dishes that we will create This will all kick off in October, with Banquet just because we found something particularly amazing Saturdays, Veneficus Degustation Fridays and the that just had to be cooked up for people to enjoy, all electronic Matching Menu (affetionately called MUM... following a flavour palate trail towards a purely unique ‘cause she tells you what you will be having for dinner) and amusing dessert to finish the evening off. and we cannot wait to show you how it is going to It will leave your senses reeling and your taste buds revolutionise the way you look at dining out. See you exhausted! To ensure the night is completely rounded, soon.

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focusinterview. C O F F S

C E N T R A L ’ s

ART CENTRAL Art Central located in Coffs Central has a new spring themed exhibition … We talk to Carmel Debreuil, one of the artists behind the gallery’s collaboration … I think it's great for them to learn all aspects of the business and how to run a gallery and introduce the public to the work. It's great to get advice and tips and constructive criticism from your peers before you go and face the critics! I think we We are very supall inspire each other in different gportive of emer ways too, and all of us have dife of the ing artists. Som tabferent strengths. es artists are quite rs, How is Art Central run, and he lished but for ot who is behind the gallery? st well and keeping fir e this has been th em We run the gallery as a th it fresh and excitr opportunity fo a in k or collective, so each artist who w r ing. We are always ei to show th ” e. is involved spends one day a ac interested in new public sp fortnight manning the shop. Every artists, so we encoursix weeks one person puts their name age people to drop off forward to curate the next show. They can their portfolios if they are pick a theme and decide what the show will interested in participating in a future look like. Holly Cox was the curator for spring, group show. and she did a fantastic job. It's very striking and Does the gallery support emerging artists? eye catching with all the explosions of colour. We are very supportive of emerging artists. The gallery is located at Coffs Central, and they Some of the artists are quite established, but have been really supportive of the gallery being for others this has been the first opportunity there. It's a pop up, and we don't have a long for them to show their work in a public space.

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hat is the latest exhibition to hit Art Central? Our latest exhibit has the theme of spring. We are looking forward to longer days and some warm sunshine. I think a lot of that has come out in the artwork. This hang has lots of colour - it's like a beautiful flower garden! Does the gallery have new artists since last time we spoke? Yes, we have now have fourteen artists at the gallery. We do a new hang every six weeks, so new people come on board and some people sit out for that exhibition. It's working really

term lease, so we are really grateful for the opportunity to showcase so much local art in such a fabulous location. What type of works are on display? We have a couple new artists with us who are doing some beautiful nature themed pieces with giant flowers and really rich colours. We have a couple of Aboriginal artists who are creating beautiful ceramic pieces, as well as paintings. Alison Williams has shown all over Australia as well as Canada and the US, so it's great to have her as part of the team. There are three artists who are doing sculpture work. Some of the woodwork sculptures are incredible. There is a bit of steam punk and skater/ surfer style works, beautiful one of a kind jewellery, as well as some quirky pieces on ply that will make you smile. There is a real variety, but it works because we have that common theme of the exhibition. Art Central, Coffs Central Main Floor, Coffs Harbour . 0401 020 141.

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AROUND THE REGION //OCTOBER 2014

We Care Day Celebrating an inclusive Coffs Coast. Music, food, market stalls, art, kids' zone, sports and so much more!

Coffs Harbour Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Climate Mobilisation

On September 21, shortly before world leaders gather in New York for a UN climate summit, people around the world will be taking part in what is expected to be the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biggest ever mobilisation in support of action on climate change, with over 1,500 marches and events in 130 countries. Coffs Coast residents can take part in this historic global event by gathering on Jetty Beach at 11am on Sunday, September 21 in a creative action organised by Coffs Coast Climate Action Group. When Sunday 21 September; 11am - 12pm. Where Jetty Beach, Coffs Harbour Jetty. More info coffsharbourclimateaction@gmail.com www.peoplesclimate.org/Australia

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When Saturday, 1st November. Where Jetty Foreshore.

25 MAKE A WISH FUNDRAISING EVENT With Coastal Soul and Kate Southwell performing. Prizes donated by Precision s, gym Helicopters, along with sky diving vouchers, e won memberships and other various prizes to be and auctioned. Should be a great night forr a fantastic cause. When October, 25th. Where Sawtell Golf Club, First Ave, Sawtellll NSW 2452. Phone: 6653 1577 Cost $35.

GLENDA HALLIWELL GL Cele Celebrity Dance for Cancer Movie Night, scree screening of: GONE GIRL! Lucky door prizes; comp complimentary gift bags for the first 100 peop people to arrive on the evening. Whe When Wednesday, 8th October at 6pm. Whe Where Birch Carroll and Coyle. Ticke Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au/20049 Trave Travel Centre Coffs Harbour, 15 Park Ave Jack Simmons Mensland, 33 Harbour Dr Phon Phone 6652 1833. Cost $25 per person, includes welcome bubb bubbles and canapes.

24.

inside this

The Cairos. Brisbane band The Cairos have had a busy year with their debut album release and back to back touring. FOCUS chats to guitarist and vocalist Alistar Richardson ahead of their performance at this year’s Festival of the Sun in Port Macquarie.

Issue 49 - October 2014

Gavin Morgan. Recently local helicopter pilot Gavin Morgan was hosted at Mansion House in London, where he was awarded the prestigious Master Air Pilot Certificate for his local work in fire fighting. This certificate was awarded by the Master of The Honourable Company of Air Pilots (incorporating Air Navigators) London in the presence of Prince Philip.

64.

usual suspects.

the

8. what’s on for October 32. eat featuring local restaurants 62. tourism with Tourism Coffs

72. social scene with Carole Beros 74. star guide with Terri

Coast

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

80. 32.

Racing in the blood. Nick Stubbs has racing in his blood and started racing speedway cars when he was only 14. With a constant desire to “go faster”, he is now in the AMCA National class. Travelling the country with his family by his side, Nick hopes to one day drive in a super sedan or V8 dirt modified car.

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

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thi si

sc ool

Editorial

V A S T

AUDI

I N T E R I O R

MASTERS CHAIR

RS 5 CABRIOLET

A thrilling performer. A pulse racing ride. THE REPLICA MASTERS CHAIR IS STUNNINGLY STYLISH WITH ITS SLIM ELEGANT LEGS, ITS FASCINATING CURVACEOUS BACK AND IS BOTH ROOMY AND COMFORTABLE. This chair is stackable and suitable for the home or business and can be used inside or out, to add eye catching elegance that won’t disappoint. Available in black and white at VAST Interior. $99.00 VAST INTERIOR 153 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour (02) 6652 1111

Editorial

THERE IS MORE TO AN INCREDIBLE SPORTS CAR THAN PERFORMANCE AND TOP SPEED. An exterior abundant in elegance should complement these attributes, and the taut body of the RS 5 Coupé does just that, revealing the strong, muscular character of an athlete. The RS 5 Cabriolet delivers all of this, as well as an open-top driving experience.

BELLBOWRIE MOTORS Call Lauchlan at Bellbowrie Motors for more information. Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 (02) 6656 8700

Editorial

JAPANESE LANTERN festival

WAYS TO

REUSEYOUR •FOCUS BAG• EACH MONTH WE DISTRIBUTE YOUR FOCUS IN A PLASTIC SANDWICH BAG TO PROTECT AGAINST WEATHER. BEING QUITE SMALL, IT'S EASY TO TOSS THEM IN TO THE RUBBISH BIN. THERE ARE MANY WAYS IN WHICH YOU CAN REUSE YOUR BAG. WE HOPE THESE IDEAS INSPIRE YOU …

• DIY Gloves. Perfect when you need to clean something messy. • Portable water dish when walking the dog. • Easy to pick up poop bag when walking the dog. • Pastry bag. Fill bag with frosting. Push out air and seal. Cut a small hole in the corner and push out frosting. • Cold pack. Fill with water, freeze and use on sore muscles after exercising. • Disposing of cooking oil. Pour in used oil, seal, and toss in rubbish. 10 coffs coast focus.

• Bath pillow. Taking a long bath: blow air in to bag and seal. • Survival kit. Keep your goodies in when travelling in car. Tissues, bandaids etc. • Floatation device for valuables. If you're stand up paddle boarding or down at the beach, keep phone and keys inside and seal shut to protect against water or sand. • DIY funnel. If you have any further ideas of ways to reuse your FOCUS sandwich bag, please feel free to post your idea on to Coffs Coast FOCUS' Facebook page.

Gardens Set to Glow at Japanese Lantern Festival Coffs Harbour Botanic Gardens will be glittering with more than flowers this October, as hundreds of lanterns are to be set afloat in celebration of the Japanese Lantern Festival. Hosted by Coffs Harbour Daybreak Rotary in conjunction with the North Coast Botanic Gardens, the Festival will offer traditional Japanese cuisine, and a magical lantern launching ceremony to those lucky enough to secure a booking. Proceeds from ticket sales will go towards the development of the NC Japanese Garden project. Following the spectacular success of last year’s event, the Lantern Festival FEAST is now being hosted on both Friday and Saturday nights to accommodate demand. By the light of an October full moon, guests will dine in the Japanese Waterside Pavilion and watch a sea of lanterns shimmering under the stars as they partake in a sake tasting, followed by an exquisite degustation style Japanese banquet served by kimono-clad MAMAGATO. This year families of all ages will be able to share in the enchantment of the Festival with a CHILDREN’S NIGHT picnic in the grounds of the Japanese Waterside Pavilion on Sunday evening. Each guest attending CHILDREN’S NIGHT will receive a traditional Bento Box prepared by Mamagato catering, and a Lucky Wish floating lantern to launch on the lake. “We are so excited to be expanding the Festival this year,” says Ann Gee, Festival Coordinator. “Unfortunately we have had to limit it to a

Bookings Only event. We still have plenty of spaces of available, though tickets are selling fast … the sight of the lanterns shimmering on the lake really is magical.“ LANTERN FESTIVAL FEAST Friday 10th, Saturday 11th Oct at 7pm Gardens Carpark $73.50 P/H www.stickytickets.com.au/19441 6658 5544 CHILDREN'S NIGHT Sunday 12th Oct at 5:30pm Gardens Carpark Adults $16.50, Children u/12 $13.50 www.stickytickets.com.au/19564 6658 5544

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focusinterview.

DANIELMURPHY LIGHT PAINTING

LIGHT PAINTING, WHICH IS LONG EXPOSURE PHOTOGRAPHY, IS USUALLY DONE AT NIGHT OR IN THE DARK WHERE A LIGHT IS MOVED IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA (OR SOMETIMES MOVING THE CAMERA) TO CREATE AN IMAGE OR EFFECT. A SIMPLE FORM OF LIGHT PAINTING IS TAKING A PHOTO AS A CAR GOES BY AND THE HEADLIGHTS AND TAIL LIGHTS LEAVE A STREAK, BUT YOU DON'T SEE THE CAR. Hi Daniel. When did you first develop an interest for the art? I came across some light painting photos online a few years ago and was intrigued by them and decided to try it myself. I enjoyed it and liked the results and have just continued to develop my techniques since. What are the techniques of the art? There are many, and there are a number of online communities for light painting where photographers around the world are doing some very interesting and inspirational work, as well as pushing the art in different

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directions. A lot of the techniques involve creating custom made tools or using everyday items in ways that they weren't originally intended for. I do some images on my own, but I also often collaborate with a few other local photographers and I find that the mixtures of techniques and ideas can often bring a better result. What is your process, from when you take a photo to the final product? Most photos take a number of tries to achieve a final image. A lot of the photos I take are set in a location, and I try to fit the

light painting to the location. I often start by throwing a few elements together and reviewing the image to see what works and what doesn't and then adjusting/adding/ subtracting elements until I'm happy with the result, and then I move on. I have often been out for a number of hours, only to return with a few photos that I am happy with. I rarely do much in the way of post processing on the computer and limit myself to cropping a photo and adjusting contrast etc. What type of equipment do you use? I have a digital SLR camera, a good tripod

and a remote shutter release to allow very long exposures. For the light painting I have a number of torches, flash, colour gels, custom made colour changing LED lights, a few commercial light tools, fine steel wool (which is burnt and spun around to create the fly spark effect) and I have recently acquired a pixelstick, which allows accurate light painting of images. Where can we see more of your work? I do not have a website as yet, but I put a lot of my images on a flickr page at www.flickr.com/photos/murphy_4

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focusinterview.

MI EA S S L CHE

THE

CHELSEA HAS GROWN UP WITH A FATHER WHO IS POP CULTURE CRAZY. HE HAS RECENTLY ENCOURAGED HER TO OPEN THE COFFS COAST'S FIRST COMIC BOOK STORE ...

our father was in the Army and moved you around a lot when you were younger. When did your family decide to settle on the Coffs Coast, and why here? We moved up here in 1998 from Adelaide. My pop had a heart attack, and Dad thought that we should move to Coffs Harbour to be closer to my grandparents and help out where we could. We moved from Coffs Harbour to Sawtell about two years ago, to help Nan out after Pop passed away. How has your father's passion for pop culture influenced your career today, and what was growing up with someone so passionate about comics and memorabilia like? Share some of your first memories … Dad loves all things kitsch, and any piece of trivia that he comes across is locked away in his vault (Seinfeld). So, we have grown up trying to know obscure facts about subjects that most people don’t know anything about. However, when it comes to pop culture we must know about every episode of Seinfeld, otherwise there is no soup for us, and we then have to celebrate festivus. As for memorabilia, it was a Star Wars original poster that Dad "borrowed" from Hoyts Cinema in George Street, Sydney (laughs). What type of things do you sell in your store, Sawtell Books and Comics? Plenty of different items, from comics both new and back issues, graphic novels, which include Game of Thrones and The Walking Dead. We also sell Steampunk jewellery, Star Wars and Star Trek merchandise, DC and Marvel figures, T-Shirts, framed prints, and we also have plenty of trading card stock. On top of all that, we also have an internet service that people can use. Where do you source your products, and what is the most memorable experience you guys have had when sourcing an item? Most, if not all, our comics and graphic novels come from the USA, as this is where they are published and then distributed. Our books and trading cards come from Sydney, and all other stock we source from everywhere and anywhere. Dad was asked to find a very rare Asterix comic, and he eventually found the issue 14

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that the client was after in Dunedin, NZ! etiquette of comic stores? Definitely don’t get between two If you could be any comic book feuding people, one who supports Marvel and the other one who character, who would you be and loves all things DC. You’re just asking for trouble why? Who would your old man there. Etiquette: oh, I think like most stores, be, do you think? I like all things respect for other people's opinions Manga and Anime, so proband their choices and be very much ably Sailor Moon. Hmm ... aware of spoiler alerts. We have S ITEM D Dad likes Green Lantern to make sure we don’t tell me Y B ED , AN U N D C H J OY I N and has a soft spot for customers the whole story about O R ME E SU SUR Aquaman, but he really their comic of choice at the counI A M B R I N G M W H O C O RY T O E TO T E T H A E P E O P L G R E AT S L T H O S loves anything to do ter, otherwise we just become a E L TH V E A I A L LY A O U T T H A with zombies, so I’d say talking book. H A L L - E S PE C A L K A B GUSTO T H he’d dress up as one of What is the worst misconcepL C O L TE LE WH ITH SU . P N W Simon Garth’s zombies. tion about comic books and their O O I E M S P N T O N D PA S Not much makeup rePHA fans? A quired there as well (laughs). That we are all Sheldon Coopers, Which titles have fallen farnerdy, and physically frail. We have all types thest from grace and why? I wouldn’t of customers, from doctors at the Base Hospital, to say any comic has fallen from grace, but like most things, they are engineers, teenagers, stay at home parents and even the odd footy all cyclical. When Batman became dark and brooding, he became player who comes in - making sure their mates don’t see them, of popular and took over from Superman as the number one, as course. But seriously, we have parents come in and thank us - for some people now consider Superman to be a goody two shoes. the first time in their kids' lives, they are reading, and that has to What are the best part about working in a comic book be good. store? Oh that’s easy. I am surrounded by items that bring me Why do you think there is a such a cross over between such joy, and the people who come in all have a great story to tell - comic book fans and tech junkies? I think it’s because we’re especially all those people who talk about The Phantom with such using the old grey matter, and rather than being told what to gusto and passion. We have been open for about three months imagine by some electronic game, we are actually constructing our now, and people are so positive and they all say the same thing: own thoughts and imagination by using the old noggin. “It's about time that this area had a comic book store". On Friday night you have Magic Night - what is that? Friday But not only that, we have a used book section, and the older Night Magic is so cool … Every Friday night we hold a tournament people around Nan’s age just love to browse and discuss so many for the card game called Magic the Gathering. It’s a game built on things with their friends - and they include me in their conversastrategy and analysis, and rather than versing some internet foe, tion, which is great. you get to do it face to face, make new friends and get to hang What's the least nerdy thing about you? (Laughs) Well, I do out with like-minded people. The gaming community is terrific, love to let my hair down and dance away to dubstep with my and the way they have allowed us into their world is amazing. I friends, and I also follow the footy. Go Manly! urge all people regardless of age to try this game out and come What shouldn't you do in a comic store? What is the and join this ever growing community; you will have such a blast.

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focusinterview.

Paramjeet S I N G H B H AT T I

W O O L G O O L G A

B L U E B E R R Y

PARAMJEET SINGH H BHATTI HAS BEEN ACTIVELY INVOLVED IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE WOOLGOOLGA BLUEBERRY INDUSTRY. PARAMJEET BELIEVES THAT FAMILY AND HARD WORK ARE THE KEY INGREDIENTS TO PRODUCING THE BEST TASTING BLUEBERRIES IN AUSTRALIA.

b ought. I will eventually give it to my son, as he is back on bought. the farm after finishing finishing a degree in Brisbane Brisbane. My grandfather started working in Australia in the early nineteen hundreds. My grandfather had three boys. He would bring two of those three sons to Australia to work, whilst one of the sons stayed in India and maintained the farm life back home. My grandfather would rotate the three sons, returning one back to India and bringing another one out, and vice versa. To find work, the two sons with their dad (who were in Australia) would travel on the railways and walk from town to town looking for labouring work on farms. With the money earned they would buy d an es cl My un ly al tu more farming land in Punjab. en ev er fath d an es iv w r ei My father was one of those th t t brough to live, re he t o ou n three sons. re child grandfather and y m When they eventually pulled as here is a massive tion y father’s genera m up stumps in Woolgoolga, Indian farming rs , both were hard worke life ...” they first started as labourers. in culture in on the field and They then leased some land Woolgoolga. People to grow bananas, and while often wonder how they looked after the bananas Indian farmers initially at weekends, weekdays were spent became involved with the industry ... can cutting sugarcane in the Maclean/Harwood you please share your family's story? area; it was mainly horse and cart farming. I My name is Paramjeet Singh Bhatti. I was born in came out to Australia in 1973 with my mother. My India and moved to Australia in 1973. My father passed uncles and father eventually brought their wives and away in 1976, me being the eldest son in my family, my children out here to live, as my grandfather and my father’s mother made the decision that I finish Year 10 and start generation were hard workers, both on the field and in working the 12 acre banana farm. This was part of my life. They were driven men, and everything they did was grandfather’s farm, which was given to my father (my for the family. In countries like Asia and India, where there father got 1/3 share, as grandfather had three boys). This isn't a government handout system, everyone needs to farm is a lot bigger now, as two neighbouring farms were

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work so families can eat. That's why the Indian family units stay together, because in our culture we couldn't afford to go elsewhere. It's difficult in Australia; people who do work hard, but they get hit with the taxes to pay for the people who don't work. Thankfully, the government are making it a bit harder now days. Indian farmers and families believe in hard work. In relation to farming locally here on the Coffs Coast, is the climate so different in Punjab to Australia? How did your family find adjusting to our conditions? We are from Punjab, which is a farming state. My family were all farmers, most of them did not go to school, they weren't educated - all they knew was farming. So when they came out here, they brought with them their farm skills and simply adapted them to the different weather conditions growing bananas instead of wheat or sugarcane etc. Again when they came out to Australia they would work as labourers, before they started to lease any land. Once that leased land became freehold, they became landlords, farming for themselves. This is the second generation who are farmers; the first generation - my grandfather - they were the labourers. My father, he was a part labourer, part self-employed. So that leaves me - the third generation - full farmers. Tell us about the current farmers in Woolgoolga who are farming blueberries/bananas ... and is the industry growing into other regions locally? As far as the bananas are concerned, it is failed industry maybe a handful of growers are left who are still in it; as far north Queensland got bigger and bigger, NSW growers got squeezed out. As for the blueberry industry, it has not looked back. There are about approx. 100 growers growing berries in the Coffs district; about 90 are around Woolgoolga. The majority of the farmers are Indian, but there are a few who are

On our property we grow four ies with varieties of berr of nine on as se g a pickin ith or ten months, w ng hi is fin y et ri va e on e and the other on â&#x20AC;? starting.

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Australian blueberry farmers. A problem that we are facing is that we are running out of flat land. Bananas thrived on the hills. To grow blueberries, it's hard yakka on the hills, whether it's too rocky or too steep. I guess that means that the hills or the old banana land is really only good for the ocean views. Originally the flat/lower grounds were no good to the bananas because of the frost, but it is truly valuable land for growing berries, because berries need a bit of chill. You don't need completely flat ground because of the water drainage; you do need a slight incline to grow good berries. A lot of farmers are heading towards Grafton to buy land for berries. Land up to Halfway Creek is good, but from Halfway Creek to Grafton it is an untrialled area. An individual needs to spend a lot of money and take three or four years to establish a farm, and then it will be seen if the land produces good berries. It'll be interesting, as that area is prone to heavy frost. Berries do need the chill factor to flower but when the berries do flower, if there is consistent frost on the flower the crop is lost. Coffs has the perfect weather conditions for producing great berries. On our property we grow four varieties of berries, with a picking season of nine or ten months with one variety finishing and the other one starting. Down in Tasmania and Victoria, the blueberry farmers only grow one variety. They are limited with the cold weather. Their picking season is only six - eight weeks. Who picks the berries for you? Thank goodness for the people who pick our berries. We generally find back packers that come on working visas and do three months in one area as part of their visa conditions

before moving on to find more work in other areas. They love this type of farm work. If we didn't have these people working for us on working visas, we would struggle, because we couldn't employ thirty people permanently. How heavily involved are your family in farm life? They are all involved. My whole family works on the farm; everybody does their bit on Saturdays, Sundays and long weekends - you name it. Each person works as a "family member". How it works is that the boys will inherit the family farm. The girls don't inherit anything. When a daughter gets married, almost every family pays for their education, along with their wedding cost. We are talking about a 600 plus guest list at the wedding. So basically, they walk in to their new marriage completely debt free. In our culture we find a suitable family for our son/ daughters to marry in to. And then the daughters inherit their husbands' side of the families' fortune. The way to attract a good family is to ensure that your family is strong/wealthy/ educated; it's the responsibility of the male/female to stay in line to attract a good wife/ husband and a good family. Not only is it my daughter who is marrying someone else's son; it's the whole family becoming a bigger family. So it's not only my daughter marrying an Indian boy from Brisbane or New Zealand; it's actually my daughter in-law's becoming my new brother and sister. Essentially, our family is extending when our children get married. There is a lot of tradition that goes in to picking a partner for your daughter or son; we all want unity, and this is something we are very proud of. Thanks Paramjeet. coffs coast focus 17

Coffs Coast sustainable living festival 2014 BIG AND BEAUTIFUL - OLD BOTTLEBUTT The Mid North Coast’s newest visitor destination is the natural wonder “Old Bottlebutt”, an award-winning tourist development in Burrawan State Forest near Wauchope. Old Bottlebutt is the name given to an enormous and grand old Red Bloodwood (Corymbia gummifera) tree, the biggest of its kind in the southern hemisphere. At more than 200 years old, the tree is estimated to be more than 52m tall and is listed on the National Register of Big Trees. Old Bottlebutt is named for its huge, flanged ‘butt’, measuring 16+ metres in girth near its base. The tree’s unusual shape explains its memorable name, deriving from ’butt swell’—a term used by foresters for this natural form of growth. Old Bottlebutt stands in a 9-hectare pocket of protected remnant rainforest, surrounded by Bangalay palms. The forest is home to a variety of

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native animals and bird species, including protected little lorikeets and glossy black-cockatoos. Previously known to only local bushwalkers, Old Bottlebutt is now accessible via a 600m loop walking track starting from the Burrawan Picnic Area. An architect-designed viewing platform at the base of Old Bottlebutt allows visitors to sit under the forest canopy and enjoy this magnificent tree in all its glory. Old Bottlebutt, in Burrawan State Forest on the Bago Road 10km south of Wauchope (and close to the Pacific Highway on the Mid North Coast of NSW) is a must-see attraction for day-trippers, families and holiday travellers alike. Want to know more: www.forestrycorporation.com.au/ e: visit@fcnsw.com.au f: www.facebook.com/forestplayground #visitnswforests

This year local celebrity chef Clayton Donovan will be joining the Coffs Coast Sustainable Living Festival which begins on Sunday 2nd November and runs through to Sunday 9th November. The popular chef and local food advocate will be hosting a ‘Meet the Grower’ session and a tantalizing cooking demonstration at the kick-off event for the week-long Festival. The Festival, which springs into life on Sunday 2nd November with the perennially popular Botanica Spring Fair, will celebrate all things sustainable through a range of engaging and fun activities, talks, children’s events, demonstrations, stalls, music and great food. The Sustainable Living Festival, which attracts around 6,000 visitors each year, aims to engage and inspire you to live more sustainably, with a focus on healthy lifestyles, ethical choices, energy saving, backyard biodiversity, local food, water and waste.

Other events already confirmed for the week long festival include: Mid North Coast Food Forum Spring Harvest Dinner Coffs Ambassadors Tours Coffs Regional Community Garden Open Day Warped Vegies Competition Climate Action Forum Farm Open Day Other events will be added in the run-up to the Festival so keep an eye on the Festival website. This year’s festival is supported by Coffs Harbour City Council, Our Living Coast and Friends of the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden. The Festival Committee would also like to thank their generous Gold Sponsors: Coffs Solar Energy and the Coffs Coast Advocate. For more information visit www.slf.net.au or follow the Festival on Facebook: www.facebook.com/CoffsCoastSLF

LOVE + KISSES Judy’s still unpacking boxes at Love & Kisses, and she says new stock will be arriving every day from now 'til Christmas. Lots of gorgeous Christmas decorations are piling up in the storeroom already, and she says she has enough nativity sets to supply half of Australia - but that’s a whole ’nother story for November. Just don’t buy any Christmas treasures until you see what happens at Love & Kisses on October 27th! Right now the Top 4 best sellers are:

Klaustel Phones & Data Klaustel Phones and Data have been servicing the Coffs Coast and surrounding areas for over 15 years. We offer business telephone systems, with no interest payment plans.

1. Lucky Roosters hand painted in Portugal 2. Hand made glass Friendship Balls 3. Scarves and scarf hangers 4. $27.95 shoulder bag and wallet sets

We offer business landline, internet and NBN, with the flexibility to style a plan to suit your business and offer great savings with VoIP telephone services.

If you’re posting overseas, call in and have a look at some of the new “made in Australia” ranges ... Judy’s in love with the new aromatherapy hand creams with pure essential oils and no nasty ingredients for $14.95. From Mbantua Galleries in Alice Springs there’s a great range of wine and water bottle holders, stubby holders, zip pouches and iPad holders - light as a feather to post, and all royalties go to the artists. Thurlby Herb Farm and the little wooden Australiana range are old favourites, and you’ll love the two new collections from Melbourne jewellery makers - necklaces $21.95.

We offer wireless headsets and long range cordless phones.

For you, or for those you love, you’ve gotta love Love & Kisses.

Check out our website: www.klaustel.com.au

We are a truly local family owned and operated business.

We are Krone certified data cabling installers, offering a 15 year warranty on Krone. So if you are starting out, relocating, expanding or simply upgrading, we can look after all your telecommunication needs just by calling our local number: (02) 6651 5288. And remember: always get a second opinion before signing any contracts.

GIANT MEDIA Building great local business success stories… This month we are featuring Darren Leaney from Business Development Now. We have worked with Darren for over 10 years and really enjoy the upfront passion that he displays in every facet of his and other people’s businesses.

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This year Giant Media designed a website for a Business Development Now client, that has helped them go from zero sales to over $200,000 sales per month! Bryn understands this, and his team have the knack of asking the right questions to understanding your website and marketing needs and aligning this to create solutions that get results!” Darren Leaney – Director: Business Development Now To start your own great success story, call us today visit www.giantmedia.com.au to book a free consultation.

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The Greenhouse Tavern Coffs Harbour Sun's State League Women have done it again! Three NSW Waratah State League Crowns in Four Years. The girls faced off against the Newcastle Hunters in what proved to be a nail biter of a game, which saw them win by 4 points in overtime. We caught up with one of the team's greats, Kate Harland, for a season rundown.

ongratulations on your third State Title win; what a fantastic achievement! How does it feel? Is this something you've worked towards for a long time as a team? Thank you. It's a great feeling to achieve the goal you have been working towards all season. Winning back to back titles for two years in a row is an even better one. The team changes around from season to season, but we have always had a good core group which have stayed together each year. Tell us about finals weekend… we would love to hear a massive recap of what went down? Well, our last training before finals weekend wasn’t the best preparation. We had girls sick, injured and some missing from training. We knew we had a big task ahead of us, as we had only lost one game all season, and the other teams would be coming to beat us. We had a very physical game against Wagga in the semi final, which we managed to win. In the final against Newcastle, despite injuries and players leaving to go overseas, our team pulled together and dug deep to play hard in a very close game and came out on top in overtime. What is it like to go into overtime? Overtime heightens all your senses and intensifies all aspects of the game. We came from behind by about 7 points, I think, with 3-4 minutes to go in the 4th quarter. Once we got to overtime, there was no turning back. We wanted the win. Siarn Woods had an outstanding game and hit some big shots in the fourth quarter, whilst under immense pressure. The closeness of the game makes the win a little sweeter when it goes your way. Ex Suns player Felicity Israel was in the Hunters line up. What was it like playing against a good friend and old team mate? 20 coffs coast focus.

e You could tell sh t bu , was in pain ld asn’t going to ho w is th d pe ta n her back . Bo ok the up her hand, to for court and played e th of the remainder her game, outplaying ing ad le d an n tio opposi e final.” the team into th

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Well, funny you should ask that question. Felicity is a very good player and has been for a long time. I can recall playing against her in junior basketball, and her team would always beat mine. I spoke to her after the game and dedicated the win to all the times she beat me in juniors. Felicity had a great game in the final and is always a tough competitor; maybe she should move back to Coffs and join the Suns once again. What happened to your captain and veteran of the game, Bonnie Kuchel? Bonnie Kuchel is an amazing player who gives two hundred percent every game! I have given her the nickname Bon-o-tron, as she is by far the fittest and hardest working on the team. Bon had been given the job of defending one of Wagga's athletic leading point scorers in the semi final. During the second quarter in a contested rebound, Bon came off second best and injured her hand. She came to the sideline and requested a substitution. You could tell she was in pain, but this wasn’t going to hold her back. Bon taped up her hand, took the court and played for the remainder of the game, outplaying her opposition and leading the team into the final. It turned out after an X-ray that Bon had badly broken her hand. With Bon out for the final, the girls knew we had to play extra hard to compensate for such a critical loss. You have had a successful season remaining, with 12 wins and one loss. What keeps the team motivated to stay on top? We went through the complete 2013 season undefeated, and it looked as though we were going to do the same in 2014. But in the last round game of the season – 2 weeks before finals – we suffered a 4 point loss.

Although this loss was unexpected, it definitely prepared us for finals. Sometimes when you are on top you can become complacent and forget to do the little things that win games. I think the loss was the crucial motivation needed for the team to realise that winning the title won’t be easy and that we need to work hard for it. How often do you train as a team, and what's on the training schedule? We train two times a week as a team for one and a half hours a session. Coach Connie Woods does a good job training us and getting us ready for games, both mentally and physically. How long have you all be playing together? Does that impact the chemistry and structure of the way you play together? Some of us have been playing basketball together either in social competitions or representative teams for a long time. All of the girls on the team get along and gel well on and off the court. We hang out together socially and have formed some good friendships. This definitely helps on the court, as we play well as a team – this has been one of our advantages all year. You have two players in your team that were ranked in the top 10 point scorers table ... Tell us about them. We actually had four players feature in and out of the top 10 point scorers over the course of the season. Everyone can score in our team – that is hard to defend. But Ashley and Laura are great shooters; they have mastered the technique of scoring baskets from behind the

3 point line and are reliable from anywhere on the court. Your team has a very broad age gap between youngest and oldest, yet the oldest mange to run the most minutes. Who are these super fit women, and how do they stay so fit and active? Already told you about Bonnie ha ha! The younger girls have proved to be some of the most athletic female Basketballers in the league. What motivates them? Coffs Harbour is a small place when compared against other associations such as Newcastle. We are lucky to have such a great Coaches that produce some great talent each year. This year we have two players from our state league team selected to play at a higher level. Jessi Reeves secured a basketball scholarship playing overseas in America, and Siarn Woods is attending the Australian College of Basketball in Melbourne. These selections are big motivators for the girls to achieve and to younger basketballers hoping to achieve the same aspirations. There were a bunch of end of season awards won by the Greenhouse Tavern Coffs Harbour Suns, including Coach Connie Woods receiving Coach of the Year. Tell us about the other awards ... We managed to pick up a large number of awards this year, which is a testament to a great 2014 season. Season Awards Coach of the year – Connie Woods Defensive player of the season and All star five – Laura Bamford Highest overall point scorer and All star five – Ashley Buis Rookie of the year – Emily Malouf League season MVP – Ashley Buis Final Awards Siarn Woods – MVP Kate Harland – Defensive player

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YOUTH DIRECTIONS Youth Directions would like to share with you a wonderful success story illustrating the importance of the work our programs undertake. Michael came to Youth Directions through the "Stepping Stones" Alternate Learning Program in 2013 to rekindle his interests, explore pathways to further education and help achieve his many life goals. During his time with Stepping Stones, Michael participated in a multitude of activities with enthusiasm - ranging through boat building, metal fabrications, art workshops, digital multi-media, hospitality, gym - nutrition and fitness training, circus and parkour. Michael completed Stepping Stones in December of 2013 and accessed further training for 2014, enrolling in TAFE NSW and achieving a Certiﬁcate II in Metal Fabrications. Whilst completing his Cert II, Michael was also following his passion for parkour through the PCYC. Michael’s involvement with PCYC has seen him become a valued and connected community member. Michael was a young offenders mentor as well as a parkour assistant junior coach for the PCYC and associated organisations. Michael also became involved in the Blue Star program, achieving his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Certiﬁcate in April 2014. On completion Michael was awarded the Commanders Award for Young Achiever of the Year in June 2014 and met the NSW Premier, Mike Baird, at the Gala dinner that Michael was invited to as part of celebrating his consistent achievements. Michael is motivated and enthusiastic for the future and is currently set to commence his first employment position since completing training. Well done, Michael – here at Youth Directions we couldn’t be prouder!

Eco-Friendly + Disposable Nappies? There was a time when the two were mutually exclusive.

The secrets of songwriting Martin Van Veluwen has been teaching songwriting at the Conservatorium for seven years. Where should I start if I want to write a song? With your feelings - songwriting is all about emotion, and you have to be compelled to write. Is it easier to write a sad song or a happy song? It was Sting who said it’s easier to write a sad song. It’s usually when you’re down that you will pick up the guitar and start writing songs. When you’re happy, you go to the beach. What do you think is the most important element of a good song? You really need to have a good storyline. Some people focus on the beat or production of the music. But I’m an old folk singer at heart - it’s the lyrics and the story that hold me. When someone presents you with a song, how do you know if it’s good? It’s very subjective. I can hear a song straight off and say, “Wow, that’s really great.” If you could give one piece of advice, what would it be? Study the greats - the music that you like - the stuff that makes you want to be a songwriter. To this day, I listen to the Beatles, which drives my wife crazy.

Not anymore. A Brisbane based couple have done the hard work, so you can now enjoy the benefits of a disposable nappy - convenient, easy to use, no laundering, plus you can achieve a positive influence for the environment. Lisa Laing and her partner, Lachlan, asked more than 20,000 parents what they wanted in an eco-friendly, disposable nappy then designed and developed a nappy they believe reflects the answers - Ecoriginals. Available in 4 sizes, Ecoriginals offer genuine eco ingredients, excellent performance, a nappy that feels soft to the touch, and all at an affordable price. In a nutshell: • Key ingredients are mainly plant based material, Cardia Compostable leak barrier film and absorbents, including sustainably forested wood pulp • 100% compostable packaging using Cardia Compostable material • Safe, free from harmful chemicals and fragrance • Leak barrier made from 100% compostable material inside the nappy so more breathable wear (up to 5 times more breathable than conventional nappies) • Quality performance similar to conventional leading nappy brands • $16.95 per packet: Infant (32/pkt), Crawler (30/pkt), Toddler (24/ pkt), Walker (22/pkt) And the really good news is Ecoriginals are now available in Coffs Harbour, exclusively at Direct Wholesale Services.

ENROL TODAY to play, listen, learn & perform at Coffs Harbour Regional Conservatorium Bray St Complex, Cnr Bray St and Pacific Hwy, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | Phone: 02 6652 1592 Vist the new website at: www.coffscon.org.au

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MAN B e n

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BEN FOX HAS JUST BUILT A PIANO FROM SCRATCH FOR HIS HSC WOOD TECH PROJECT. BEN IS THE YOUNGEST SON OF REUBEN FOX OF FOX PIANOS, AND PIANOS ARE A PART OF THEIR FAMILY LINEAGE. our parents own a piano store locally and you're the youngest of ten children. What was it like growing up in a family so heavily involved in music, and what was your

Why did you choose to build a piano for your HSC Industrial Technology class? Originally in Year 10 at Christian Community High School, my Industrial Technology teacher, Andrew Lynn, gave me the idea that I should build a piano. At first it was just an idea childhood like? which I honestly thought not much lf At the back ha As kids, Mum and Dad all started of at all, because I never saw it d ha e of Year 11 w e er us on piano before we were five. w happening. At the back half or e w t to decide wha , 12 ar Ye r I’m the youngest of all ten and Year 11 we had to decide what fo e ak going to m d da y m was started at the piano a week we were going to make for Year ith w g so talkin t an old go e w , w before my 5th birthday. All my 12, so talking with my dad and re nd A and family's y m om fr brothers and sisters played piano Andrew, we got an old piano from o an pi e to use in their early childhood but all my family's piano shop for me to piano shop for m .” the insides from learnt another instrument, some of use the insides from. Due to my dad these being being violin, saxophone, working in our locally owned family clarinet and flute. I learnt a bit of guitar piano shop, I have been able to work and trumpet over the years, but piano was there for the past five or six years, restoring by far my favourite out of them all, and that has old pianos for customers or for re-sale and selling stuck with me for the past 13 years and is something new pianos. This allowed me to know the majority I’ll have with me for life. I have an extremely musical of the ins and outs of pianos, so that I would be able to family heavily influenced by my dad, Reuben; it has been fully restore the insides and bring them up to a professional a blessing and it's been great being able to grow up with so standard. I mainly chose to build a piano because I knew it much music around me. was something new, and I could be sure that no one would

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have ever done it before - and most likely that it would never be a modernistic piano look. The trusses are what you will see on done again. This would also receive great marks, and it would be older pianos, with all the curves and wavy edges. I’ve seen the something that would stay in the family. Birds Eye Poplar Veneer on the inside curves of grand pianos and What was the process like? From start to finish; how do also thought how rad it would look on an upright piano. you build a piano? What was the most rewarding part of this project? When I first started pulling apart all the old piano parts, I had I think the most rewarding part of building this piano is seeing to ensure I was going to be able to match these parts with new it develop along the way, and when it first was able to play a timber to the same size, whether or not I changed the design note - even though it was incredibly out of tune - it was a very of certain pieces. I restrung the whole piano, which was very exciting moment knowing that it worked! Also, having people tedious, as taking off all the old strings I had to measure each see it and be amazed due to the fast that I had built a piano was individual string to ensure I put the same thickness or new string very encouraging. back on when restringing the piano; the bass strings were sent Have you received your marks yet? How did you score? away and re-copper coiled and cut to the exact length of the old I haven’t got my marks back for my piano yet. It was marked strings. Constructing some parts of the piano had to be thought at the back end of August this year, and we receive all of our out thoroughly, and I had to continuously think four of five steps marks back and our ATAR in December this year. ahead to ensure that what I was making now would be the What are your plans for next year? right size and be made so later parts would fit in snugly. I French I have applied for AIM (Australian Institute of Music) in Sydney Polished the piano, which took just over two weeks, but allows to do a Bachelor of Music in Classical Performance. Once they the best finish for timbers. get back to me, I have an audition and interview. If I get in Who was your wood tech teacher, and how did he there I may go straight there next year or defer it for a year get behind your project? and continue working in my family’s piano store, Fox My wood tech teacher, Andrew Lynn, was a Pianos in Coffs Harbour, for another year or so to fantastic help to me. He pushed me along get some money and then head off to AIM. with my projects and continuously Thanks Ben. Follow the link below to e encouraged me to keep pushing on and see a video of Ben doing what he This is a techniqu praised me for the work I had already loves: http://goo.gl/zZL0Iy that is no longer at often, done, as he did with all the students taught or used th le to ab in our class. He got behind me from so for Greg to be to me is on pass this skill day one when we picked up the l have I’l at th something old piano from the piano shop and n use in ca d an w no for life brought it out to the school; this was other on d other places an the starting point of something big! .” re tu fu e projects in th The finish on your piano is French polishing. A technique that is no longer taught, who was a part of the finishing process, and what did this involve? A family friend, Greg Burgess, who has done some French polishing for us on pianos in the past helped and taught me. This is a technique that is no longer taught or used that often, so for Greg to be able to pass this skill on to me is something that I’ll have for life now and can use in other places and on other projects in the future. This was a very enjoyable part of my project, and I was continuously able to see my piano nearing completion. What is the piano made from, and what are its feature points? The piano is made from Red Cedar timber, and the top and bottom door panels and down the inside of the ends of my piano have been veneered with Birds Eye Poplar Veneer. This veneer comes from a tree which has all these tiny branches coming out, which created all the tiny knots in the timber and looks amazing once finished. I made my piano with designs from older and newer pianos. The full width top lid is much more of

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BRISBANE BAND THE CAIROS HAVE HAD A BUSY YEAR WITH THEIR DEBUT TOURING FOCUS CHATS TO GUITARIST ALBUM RELEASE AND BACK TO BACK TOURING. AND VOCALIST ALISTAR RICHARDSON AHEAD OF THEIR PERFORMANCE AT THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL OF THE SUN IN PORT MACQUARIE.

ell us a bit about yourselves as musicians. When I was growing up my family was always very musical - my dad played music and always had a guitar around the house; as well as my uncles - they were in bands and involved in many different genres of music. What's behind the name, "The Cairos"? It's one of those funny things; our old drummer was really interested in Egypt and Cairo, and we thought when we adopted the name we would eventually change it but it was one of those names that just stuck and people connected with it; and we never changed it. Within the band, who writes and composes the music? There are four of us in the band, and we’re all fairly different in our approach to writing music - we’re also all very different in how we write the music and the four of us all write music individually and together. When we take our music to the band, it is worked upon and demos are collaborated on - we have our own recording gear and when we do sit around and put the songs together, we’re able to review them, pull them apart and work on them - or jam it out in the room. So we work together and individually. How’s 2014 been so far for you? It has probably been the busiest, craziest, most full on year with music. We’ve managed to tour Asia and headed to the UK and we’re going to China again for the second time - we never thought that would be possible. Plus, we’ve toured Australia twice and are about to again! The album came out, and yeah, it's been a busy year. I

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like constantly being on the move and working towards Mute Math - how has this helped The Cairos as a band future goals. to develop? It’s been a really great year. All the bands we have played with over You’ll be visiting Port Macquarie for the years have been very different in Festival of the Sun in December. Does their approach to music and live this form part of your summer performances; and their approach It has probably t, es si festival schedule? to life in general has been that been the bu on ll Yes, we’ll be doing a few festivals, the band is not everything, and fu craziest , most ve e’ W . ic us including Woodford in Queensland you have a life to live. The more year with m a si A ur to to and a gorgeous festival in Adelaide, you experience other things, managed K U e th to ed ad plus we have a few gigs in Sydney then the more will influence you and he to China g in go re e’ w d and Melbourne of our own. So that and make you grow better, and an cond time again for the se will be our way of signing off on the I think that has been one of the ght that - we never thou .” year and seeing how far we’ve come greatest things we’ve learnt from le would be possib and focusing on the next year. touring with these bands. They have You have a lot international touring obviously succeeded for a reason, so planned for 2015; tell us about that ... we’ve listened to what they have to say and I don’t think it is announced yet, but we are watching how they go about it is also exciting. going to do a festival in America plus a few other shows Who would you love to work with? - we also like to brave new frontiers, so I think we’re Probably Paul McCartney - that would satisfy an old going to try South America as well while we are over childhood dream. there. Why not! Thanks Alistar. Plus, we will also be writing; we never stop writing. We’ll probably spend a lot of the time working on new material the plug! for the new album. I think momentum is an important thing in this day and age; you need to be putting stuff out and THE CAIROS PERFORM LIVE AT FOTSUN satisfying people’s interest, otherwise they will move on to THIS DECEMBER 12/13 something else more quickly. You have shared the stage with some big bands over Tickets on sale from FOTSUN.com the years - PowderFinger, Blue Juice, The Temper Trap,

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The Woolgoolga

Golf Ball Drop THE WOOLGOOLGA GOLF BALL DROP IS A FUNDRAISER, IN WHICH THE TEAM AT ROTARY ORGANISE FOR 1,000 NUMBERED GOLF BALLS TO BE DROPPED ON THE DRIVING RANGE AT WOOLGOOLGA RSL GOLF CLUB, IN SAFETY BEACH. THE HELICOPTER HOVERS OVER A TARGET AND RELEASES THE BALLS; NEAREST TO THE TARGET WINS FIRST PRIZE. ho came up with the idea as does each ticket. The winner of first prize of such an interesting is the golf ball closest to the target ... We will fundraiser? then check the ticket stubs to announce the This idea was used as a winner. We also have second and third prizes fundraiser in the USA originally, but the Rotary for next closest to the target. Club of Dee Why have done it on a number of The Ambrose competition starts at 10 am occasions. Our Rotary Club thought it would and costs $20 a head to enter; teams of 4 be a fun way of raising money in this area. play together. We have lots of prizes for this Precision Helicopters are very generous fun event, and you don't have to be a serious to donate their helicopter ... does golfer to play! All players get a voucher it look spectacular when the for the BBQ. Other spectators can balls are released? purchase BBQ food on the day. We actually pay What do you do with the We also had a Precision Helicopters to money raised? raffl e on the fly from Coffs with the All the money raised ofit day. Our net pr golf balls. goes towards the Rotary just for the day was They have also Youth programs in this e under $4000. W generously donated area. have a target of prizes of helicopter This includes annual is $5000 again th rides on the day. donations to all our local year.” It was fun planning it schools, running the Rotary with them last year, and Youth Driver Awareness was absolutely spectacular program each year, supporting watching the helicopter fly over Woolgoolga High Scool's Getting the golf course and then hover over the Out There Day, individual scholarships for target. We had a beautiful day weatherlocal students, sponsoring students to partake wise, which was lucky. in many specialist science, engineering, Last year was the inaugural year … how agriculture, marine, and other camps, running much was raised, and what is the target a public speaking competition annually, and this year? supporting students to partake in youth Last year we raised over $5,000 gross. exchange programs. This included a generous share (50%) of the Ambrose golf competition that was on before the plug! the helicopter drop and organised by the golf club. We also had a raffle on the day. Golf ball drop for Woolgoolga. Our net profit for the day was just under At 2pm on Sunday 26th October at $4,000. We have a target of $5,000 again Woolgoolga Returned Services Golf Club, this year. Safety Beach. How much is it to enter, and how does it all work? Pam: 6654 7700 We sell tickets for the drop at $5 each or Karen: 6654 0373 5 for $20. Every golf ball has a number on it,

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Nathan AVNELL Your Heading Here! Nathen Avnell has been working with us at Coat Of Arms Tattoo Studio for the last three years and has built a reputation for himself with his attention to detail and artistic ability, which shines through his work. Known predominately as Navs within the area, we would like to introduce the community to this talented man ... I’ve been tattooing for over ten years now and it’s taken me all round Australia. Currently at Coat of Arms Tattoo Studio, Coffs Harbour, I enjoy and practice most aspects of the art form, from black and grey and colour to scarification. I love the stories and ideas that walk through the door; tattooing is an odd and beautiful art form, more extravagant than the most expensive jewellery, can’t be lost, borrowed or stolen. They can be whatever you want them to be. There are people from all walks of life, whether you see it or not, walking round with body art - and it’s not an act of protest against society or a rebellion against authority. The boring truth is, it we like the way they look and they give us a snapshot of an experience or a memory of the past … Navs.

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focusinterview.

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focusinterview.

D o n o v a n Beautiful, successful, mother of three Nicole Donovan had a large career in Sydney before moving to Coffs Harbour in the late '80s. In between running her

successful restaurant, rearing her gorgeous children and travelling the world, you'll find Nicole practicing yoga or entertaining friends at her home … This is Nicole's story

here did you grow up, and what was your childhood like? How many siblings do you have, and do you think you're like your mother? I grew up in (then) leafy suburban Epping, where we caught tadpoles in the creek and amused ourselves by playing in the mud from the local brickworks and watching Championship Wrestling, The Brady Bunch and Hey Hey it's Saturday. A very simple '70s upbringing, complete with the family Kingswood. I have a sister, Christine, who lives in Nimbin and a brother, Paul, who lives in Sydney. I’m not like my mother at all! Polar opposites, in fact, although we both LOVE to socialise. She is very sensible and not very emotional and very tiny … Whereas I am impulsive, wear my heart on my sleeve and am quite tall. Mum is great, though - a very strong woman and great company. With a busy career in Sydney working in advertising, what made you make the change and move to Coffs Harbour? At what moment did you think, "Yep, I need a sea change"? I couldn’t stand the travelling to work and back. Two hours on public transport daily and driving and parking in Sydney drove me crazy! So much wasted time! I could live in Sydney except for those things ... but I'm so glad I made the move. I wouldn’t leave now; I absolutely love Coffs Harbour and visit Mum, who still lives in Sydney, for a city fix every now and then. Not only a career in advertising but you've also had a long career in the health and fitness industries … What attracted you to these fields? Matt and I briefly moved to Melbourne in

the early '90s to get some further hospitality experience, and I got really bored at night as I had a day job and Matt was working split shifts, so I joined the gym. I’d never worked out in my whole life up until that point, but soon became obsessed and was an aerobic/group fitness instructor within the year, studying at Box Hill TAFE. I then started teaching and working at Harbour Health Club in 1995 and have been teaching at various gyms ever since. I only teach Dancestep (my other passion) and yoga now. You'll be recognised by many reading this as the "front of house" at your restaurant, Surf Club Restaurant and Bar, but back in the day you worked at Aanuka. How did that experience develop the hospitality skills engrained in you today? God love Mal Fittler (ex owner and founder of Aanuka); he pushed us so hard to achieve the high standards of service he expected in his (then) brand new five star property. It really helped me understand the concept of “the customer is always right”. He was also very generous and treated us well. As a casual hospitality worker for a long time in many venues around Coffs Harbour, I know that being a fair and approachable employer really pays off. Staff morale is probably my number one concern. Everything else flows from there. Our staff are absolutely priceless, and I truly love and appreciate them all. You then had huge success at The Deep Sea Fishing Club … why the move to Surf Club? What is your food and service philosophy? The Fishing Club gig had run its course. The opportunity presented to take on the Surf Club, and we could see its massive potential. It also was a wonderful lifestyle opportunity for us, with mostly daytime operation being very conducive to family life with young children. I also live just around the corner, one minute from

was The ashram life d an c si ba ty pret when a real challenge e’s lif you are used to orth w l el w luxuries, but a lot nt ar le I . ce the sacrifi ha dw tI about myself an which e, really want in lif .” ng is still evolvi

“

work! We totally guarantee our food and services and encourage our guests to always give us honest feedback if they experience anything not to standard. Without that transparency, we would not have a chance to change and grow. We are a continually evolving business, always looking for ways to improve. You are an avid traveller. Why do you choose to travel with one of your three children each trip, and what do you think the benefits are for young people to experience the world? I want my children to not only spend one on one time with me, but to also see how the "other half" lives and to realise how lucky we are to live in such a wonderful place. It also helps alleviate my guilt at not being very good at packing school lunches and other traditional motherly activities! Being passionate about yoga, you recently travelled to the Himalayas to study … what is living and studying in an ashram like? What inspired you to travel to India? Yoga is definitely my latest obsession and one that I know will last a lifetime. I study and practice daily and wanted to go to the source to learn from a Hindu Swami. The ashram life was pretty basic and a real challenge when you are used to life’s luxuries, but well worth the sacrifice. I learnt a lot about myself and what I really want in life, which is still evolving. I’ve learnt to trust the universe and know that all the answers are really inside us. We just need to listen. Meditating daily would be my number one advice to leading a happy and drama free

life. Where do you teach yoga, and when do you plan on taking your class outdoors? Why do you teach yoga for free? I teach at Beachbodies Gym at the moment and will also be starting a free outdoor class in the next month or so. Daniel Jenkins and I (one of my best friends) are going with the business name Ahisma Yoga. I am teaching a yoga class weekly for free to give back to the community in a small way. I’m hoping it will introduce yoga to people who wouldn’t normally try it, or who can’t afford it. It really can change people’s lives, physically, spiritually and mentally. I’d like to inspire that in others as I have been inspired. There are some very experienced and inspirational teachers in Coffs Harbour, Karen Toneycliffe being the master, in my opinion. What's on the agenda for the next three, five, ten years? I pretty much just go with the flow, Melly, and trust that my life will be amazing! That philosophy hasn’t disappointed me yet. Between our fun and successful restaurant, my beautiful, balanced children, close friends, extensive family, ex families and step families, diverse fabulous community, good health and the opportunity to travel, I’m as happy as can be, and grateful every day. My journey in this lifetime has been truly amazing, and I trust that it will unfold exactly as it should. Even some of the things that seem to go wrong are usually blessings in disguise. Bring it on! I can’t wait to see what is around the corner. Bless you, Melly, and Namaste … Thanks Nicole. coffs coast focus 29

Mercator dream cord lights CETNAJ

focus

Gear up this month with our favourite pieces, all sourced from our local retailers. If you have a piece that you'd like featured, please email melly@focusmag.com.au p

PINK GARDEN FLAMINGOS $29.95 TYPO GLADYS TUMBLER $8.95 FREEDOM

SURYA TWILIGHT STAR HANGING $24 EARLY SETTLER

ALICE CICOLINI 22-KARAT GOLD RING $25,152 www.net-a-porter.com

MOROCCAN JUG $45 CARGO LANE

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SUNDAY RILEY ARTEMIS HYDRO FACE OIL $150 www.net-a-porter.com

focus

WROGHT IRON CHANDELIER $695 CARGO LANE

SHONA JOY, LUCID STATE BOMBER JACKET $340 UPTOWN LOCAL

NELSON 1892 STANDARD 45CM X 45CM CLOCK $70 TARGET

VANISHING ELEPHANT $200 UPTOWN LOCAL

LASATA SUNGLASSES $39.95 SPORTSGIRL

If you have a unique piece that you would like featured here please

melly@focusmag.com.au coffs coast focus 31

surf n' turf from The pier hotel.

download our eat. dining guide for iPhone & Android www.focusmag.com.au/eat

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zulu's restaurant & bar Now serving our new spring menu. We are very excited to hear we have won Café & Restaurant of the Year for North NSW/ New England in the 2014 Savour Restaurant & Catering Awards. It means a lot to us to be recognised for our beautiful food and service. The winter has been kind to us and the days have been nice and sunny ... perfect to sit outside and take in the ocean views, whilst enjoying a fabulous meal. Saltwater serves delicious Toby’s Estate coffee and we offer takeaway drinks and meals too. Coffee and cake from $8, all made fresh in-house. Now with the Highway completed, it is just a quick trip from Coffs Harbour to beautiful Emerald Beach.

pasfields restaurant bar deck Please come and dine with us to enjoy our new spring menu. Please check it out on our website. Join our Pasfields Dining Society for exclusive member only dining offers. Sunday, Oct 12th 12 - 3pm for the Wedding & Events Open day. Tues, Nov 4th Vintage Crop Melbourne Cup Luncheon 6 course degustation menu, free sweeps and prizes. $100ph

Chef Kim Robson. Head Chef Joel McCulla.

Friday Nov 21st + Christmas Functions Begin

27 Grafton Street, Coffs Harbour (Pacific Highway) 6652 1588 www.zuluscoffs.com

675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au Lunch Fri – Sun or any other times for bookings of >10 made in advance. Dinner nightly from 5pm, à la carte, bar menu or takeaway.

Breakfast: Monday – Friday, 7am – 9am. Dinner: Monday – Saturday, 6pm – late.

the pier hotel

the hoey moey

As the weather warms up, Dave and Elvar have some exciting menu changes on the way at waves bistro. Come and try our succulent 400 g T-Bone steak or one of mouth watering seafood dishes.

Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our newly renovated hotel with spacious beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottleshop and TAB facilities.

Waves @ The Pier is still Coffs best lunch venue, with a wide range of dishes starting from $10. Planning a function? Come in and talk to Kieran or Dave to see what we can do for you. Head Chef Dave Newick.

We are still feeling very generous and have decided that our Famous $9.50 Feeds will be $6.50 from Monday through to Sunday. Bring the family down for an affordable and nutritious family dinner. If you would prefer something a little fancy, you won’t go past our Daily Blackboard Specials.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

Come in for our famous Sunday Sessions with Crab Racing and our Kids' Club to help entertain our littlest friends. Don’t miss our 3rd Annual North Coast Pig Racing Carnival appearing at the Hoey Moey on Sunday 5th October from midday. It’s a great family day out!

Cnr Harbour Dr and Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour hotel 6652 2110 bistro 6651 8222 lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm. coffs coast focus 33

Corn zucchini blini, beetroot cured salmon, avocado foam.

saltwater cafÉ restaurant We are now serving our new spring menu. We have some mouth watering new dishes on the menu. For lunch we have a spring duck pie, rosemary salt kipflers, pea puree and jus. For dessert, an orange dark chocolate tart and hazelnut praline ice cream. Now spring is here, it is starting to warm up. There’s nothing better than gazing out to the ocean from saltwater with a nice cold Bello beer or a glass of boutique wine. We offer friendly service with casual dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with amazing views of the ocean. Don’t forget now the highway is complete, it is just a 10 minute drive from Coffs.

hello sawtell

See you at Saltwater.

REVIEWED BY

Guide

Chef and owner Amy Kebby.

104 Fiddaman Road, Emerald Beach 6656 1888 www.saltwateronthebeach.com Breakfast & lunch Wednesday to Sunday, Dinner Thursday, Friday & Saturday nights.

Hello Sawtell opened its doors early August and has quickly become a popular spot. Their dishes are designed to be shared with the table, or enjoyed individually – the choice is yours. Smaller dishes not be missed include the ham and cheese croquettes, smoked chicken hot wings and pork and fennel sliders, while for the larger share plates make sure you try the honey and rum glazed pork belly, sticky bourbon beef ribs, whole roasted Rainbow Trout or the slow roasted lamb shoulder. Dessert lovers rejoice – these are a standout! Don’t go past the apple and cinnamon filled doughnuts, buttered popcorn pannacotta or the white chocolate ice cream sandwich! There are also lots of options for vegetarians and those with special dietary requirements. The chefs are very flexible to your needs, and over half of the menu is gluten free.

20 First Ave, Sawtell 0417 933 107 facebook.com/ hellosawtell Tues - Sun 6pm till late

horizons restaurant & bar

bluebottles brasserie

PARTY, PARTY, PARTY!!! BOOK NOW FOR YOUR WORK CHRISTMAS PARTY

Bluebottles not only use the best quality produce, but also work at reducing their environmental impact. So they are now stocking the sturdy range of Joco Glass Cups for you to enjoy their delicious coffee in a reusable glass.

Spring/Summer Dinner Menu starts 8th October

Not only will you get a barista-friendly cup, mug or jumbo cup in a range of funky colours, but every time you fill it up at Bluebottles, you’ll also get 10% off your drink as your reward for caring.

What better way to celebrate a new season than to launch a new menu to take advantage of the best in seasonal produce. At Horizons, Chef Clinton Hunter, has created dishes that are not only enhanced by quality, fresh and seasonal produce, but are absolutely delicious.

Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Log onto www.bluebottlesbrasserie.com.au and join their free VIP list to enjoy more offers like this before anyone else!

For those who like desserts, leave room for the fantastic dessert selections. Christmas Day Bookings now available; get in early.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com Breakfast, lunch and dinner – 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

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Owner/Chef Duncan Elliot.

Cnr of Beach and Wharf St, Woolgoolga 6654 1962 facebook.com/bluebottles Mon to Sat 6:15am - 4pm and Sun 7am - 3pm.

Chef Neville Mott.

cafÉ treeo sawtell We’ve made it through the winter and Cafe TREEO are excited to announce their spring menu! As always using the freshest ingredients TREEO’s chefs have created a mouth-watering menu with something for everyone. You’ll find long-time TREEO favourites alongside new, fresh and fun dishes to welcome in the warmer weather. With lots of new businesses opening up in Sawtell it’s well worth the short drive from Coffs to spend the day browsing the boutiques and scoring yourself a delicious meal!

finz on the beach Finz on the Beach is open for à la carte dining 7 days a week. The restaurant welcomes a new season with an exciting, colourful and adventurous menu. Contact 6652 7555 to make your booking, or book online at www.dimmi.com.au to take advantage of the regions freshest produce and seafood. Guests can start their evening at the Resorts Casay Decks & Bar for fantastic cocktails and Happy Hour from 5 - 6:30pm. With breathtaking views out towards gorgeous Diggers Beach, guests can relax and enjoy a scrumptious 2 course dinner for $59 per person, including a glass of Mortar & Pestle wine per person.

Breakfree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour 6650 2400 www.aanuka.com.au

Owner/Chef Duncan Elliot.

18 First Ave, Sawtell 6653 1099 www.cafetreeo.com

Open from 6pm, 7 days a week.

7 days from 7am for breakfast and lunch.

brandy's restaurant

fish heads fish & chips

Big tasty home cooked meals await you at Brandy’s!

We are a specialty fish and chip café, known both for our original recipes for marinated seafood and freshly prepared salads and also the high quality of our traditional fish and chips. We provide both a sit down dining experience and a takeaway service.

Huge pork knuckles, lamb shanks, authentic pastas and fresh steaming bowls of chilli mussels will not only fill you up, but also warm you up. A friendly rustic atmosphere complete with a kids' room will also ensure you have a relaxed dinner with family and friends. Brandy’s is a new restaurant to the Coffs Harbour area and pride themselves on offering big, tasty great value meals. Brandy’s is the brainchild of singer Adam Brand, and more often than not he is there helping out in the kitchen. Dinner 6 days a week and open for Sunday lunch. (Closed Monday.)

Our emphasis is on a range of top quality fresh Australian fish offering a variety of cooking approaches, emphasising a clean low fat version of seafood.

Head chef Blake Walton.

Owner Adam Brand.

8 Bray Street (The Cinema Complex), Coffs Harbour 6691 3800

72 Harbour Dr, Coffs Harbour 6652 8887

Tuesday - Sunday, 5pm till late

7 days from 7.30am

coffs coast focus 35

focusinterview. with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

Coffs

LANE BISTRO

AT ’ S I N

Avocado

Avocado ... oh the rich velvety slightly tl sweett yett savoury goodness. Can be paired with almost m anything, and so good for you. The rich potassium bonus for your body works in almost anything. Some interesting and probably different ways to use your avocados this season: n Mash an avocado on some fresh hot toast, season lightly, then top with thinly sliced strawberries. g Scoop out the flesh from an avocado half, leaving the skin intact; then proceed to add chilli, corianre der, Spanish onion and lime to the avocado before seasoning and adding you favourite seafood (I likee crab with this recipe) put it back in the skin and bake it for a good twenty minutes.

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

THERE IS A FANTASTIC NEW RESTAURANT CAFÉ CALLED COFFS LANE BISTRO, LOCATED AT NAUTILUS. FOR VISITORS OR “LOCALS” IN COFFS HARBOUR, THERE ARE VERY FEW CHOICES WHEN LOOKING FOR A RESTAURANT BY THE BEACH WITH STUNNING OCEAN VIEWS, DELICIOUS CUISINE AND EXCELLENT SERVICE.

wner Norbet is welltravelled, bringing his experience to Coffs Harbour. Shimmy down, bring a bottle of wine, order from the reasonably priced café menu and take in the views of the ocean! Where are you from? Have you always cooked in Coffs Harbour? I grew up in Parramatta in the west of Sydney, moved up to Coffs Harbour when I was 12 and have been here ever since. I have done lots of travel, spending ten years cruising the Mediterranean from Italy to France. I’ve also spent time in Indonesia. During those years I’ve always tried hard to satisfy customers with great service and meals. In 2006, when I first came to Australia, I was working at award winning restaurant Garfish at Kirribilli, Sydney. How did those earlier days in kitchens in Sydney influence your cooking today? I like to think I’m a bit of a sponge when it comes to influences, taking traits from a variety of different people, everyone from chefs and waiters to dishies and my parents, taking the best aspects and information from everyone I’ve come in contact with to always be continually improving my cooking skills. Spring menu? What else can we expect? With spring arriving, you can soon expect the start of us opening for dinner, which

36 coffs coast focus.

real • whole • clean

includes a dinner menu. It’s currently under construction - so that should be exciting - as well as our ever changing fresh fish board ...

- with Mauz

Do you try to source locally, and how important is fresh produce in your cooking? Yes, we strive to use only locally sourced produce where possible, from fruit and vegtables to eggs to fish. Using only the freshest of produce is vital to creating the best experience for every customer who

k a le i dascopic co us co us s al a d

comes through the door. When you’re not in the kitchen at work

INGREDIENTS.

and you’re cooking for loved ones, what do you plate up in your own kitchen? When I’m at home I love cooking for the family, so I like to always try new things I haven’t done before, improving and adding new skills - but I’m also a sucker for classics my mum has taught me. What do you think about shows like MKR and MasterChef? For or against? Shows like MKR and MasterChef are fun to watch fovr many people, but for me it’s more focused on entertainment and reality TV then cooking, so it doesn’t really interest me. Coffs Lane Bistro, Nautilus Villas and Spa, 78/746 Pacific Highway, Coffs Harbour. 6653 6699

1 cup Israeli cous cous* ¾ cup Australian quinoa* 1 brown onion, coarsely chopped 14 brussels sprouts, halved horizontally

½ cup each dried Incaberries and cranberries* 2 tbsp capsicum flakes* 4 cloves garlic, crushed 4 cups peeled, cubed Jap pumpkin

2 tbsp Baharat spice* 1 ¼ cup vegetable stock Olive oil Babaganoush, to serve* ½ cup pepitas, toasted*

METHOD. Preheat oven to 220°C. Roast onion with a generous drizzle of olive oil for 10 mins. Toss in brussels sprouts and roast a further 15 mins; add pumpkin and return to oven for 15 mins. Meanwhile, thoroughly rinse quinoa and cook in 2 ½ cups water for 10 mins. Strain, place berries on top, cover and keep warm. Bring the vegetable stock and capsicum flakes to a boil, add couscous, cover

and simmer for 10 mins, until absorbed. Remove from heat, place quinoa mixture on top, cover and sit for 5 mins. Add Baharat, garlic and a drizzle of olive oil to vegetables, mix well to coat and return to oven for 10 mins. Fluff quinoa mixture with a fork. Serve as a bed for the roast vegetables, topped with a generous dollop of babaganoush and a sprinkling of toasted pepitas. *Available locally.

focusinterview. nterview.

AWARD WINNIG

SALTWATER CAFE AND RESTAURANT STAURANT SALTWATER’S COMBINATION BINATION OF ARD WINNING OCEAN VIEWS, AWARD ICE PROVIDE CUISINE, AND SERVICE E EXPERIENCE AN UNFORGETTABLE AXED EVENING FROM CAFÉ TO RELAXED DINING, INTIMATE WEDDINGS, CTIONS OR CORPORATE FUNCTIONS ENTS. SOCIAL EVENTS.

huge congratulations from the FOCUS team on winning your recent award! What award did you win; what does this type of achievement mean to you and the team? We recently won Best Café Restaurant Northern NSW in the Savour Restaurant and Catering Awards. To win this is such a great feeling - just to know that the judges really enjoyed the whole dining experience of the café, and that’s what it’s all about - is the whole experience. The hospitality industry is tough, so every day we strive to offer what our valued customers expect. This achievement sets in concrete that what we have been working towards has been recognised. Emerald Beach is such a beautiful place and having a great local café to hang at, stare at the ocean and relax with a coffee, or a nice drop of wine or cold beer is what we believe sets us apart from other cafés and restaurants. We are thrilled to win the award. What are some of the criteria? What were the judges looking for? You basically have to tick all the boxes. It starts from the booking right through to the service, setting and of course, the food. Being a café by day and restaurant by night, they judge the menu as well - and presentation. The judges can come in at anytime over a four month period, so every day matters to us, and that’s why we set our standards high. It’s like being mystery shopped, and every customer could be the judge. Our attitude is that if we offer the best possible service every day, followed by great food for every single person, then it doesn’t matter who the judge is; we are doing what we represent and gain new repeat valued customers. You have been a chef most of your life … What are some of the skills you learnt back in the day that you still have with you today? As a chef it’s about the taste combinations, the quality of produce we use and how it can be presented. These skills stay with you when you have a passion for food. As a business owner, it also has to be about the quality of service

so Social media is at th ss ce ac to easy , sh e, di or one wrong mov it can d human error, an siness. bu e be costly to th sly, as no We take it seriou hear to business wants back .” ed fe e tiv ga ne any

“

and inviting, friendly staff and atmosphere as well. I was lucky enough to be Head Chef for a business that set up a café from scratch at the Gold Coast. This involved the kitchen design and full menu. It has really helped me understand what designs work well in a kitchen to make your job easier for service and how a menu can make or break you. Even though I am not in the kitchen at Saltwater, I love working with my chefs in creating the seasonal menus. What is you food and service ethos? Being in a beautiful coastal location, we want our customers to enjoy, relax and take in the view. We offer a casual, friendly environment, where you can sit back relax and enjoy a great meal and drinks. We make everything possible from scratch, from pesto, relish, jams, cakes, muffins, desserts, and this is where the flavour and tastes are created. Food and service-wise, we know everyone is a food critic these days due to the great cooking and competition shows on TV. Social media is so easy to access, that one wrong move, dish, or human error, and it can be costly to the business. We take it seriously, as no business wants to hear any negative feedback. A lot people may perceive Saltwater to be a fancy restaurant, when in fact it's a fun, friendly place with casual dining … What type of place have you created, and how is it different to the old Saltwater? Many people have commented that they always thought it had to be an occasion to come to Saltwater. With the food industry exploding over the last few years, we wanted the café to be for everyone who just enjoyed great food. We have surfers come in with their boardies on, ladies on their morning walk stop for coffee and cake, mums and their prams taking time out to enjoy a bit of company. At night you may be just heading home from work and don’t feel like cooking. With a restaurant, it’s never about the clothes on your back, the car you drive, or what you do for work; it’s the food and service that takes you

back again and again. You have to have a certain style of food that your menu reflects. We don’t go up against a pub style menu of lots of chips with everything; we prefer to combine the seasonal fruit, vegetable and produce to offer just great dishes. We constantly research restaurant trends and especially menus, to make sure we keep up to date. We recently had ex-local Carla Jones and her husband, Richie Dolan (both Head Chefs in Sydney) do a Guest Chef night. It was a 5 course degustation dinner, so we love to offer locals a different night out. Many more of these events are planned. And we are so excited for your new spring menu. Please expand on this … Every season we change the menu to introduce the fresh seasonal produce. Spring, we start to move out of the warm comfort food that we enjoy on cold winter nights. Spring is so much about the change of flavours, as to what we can source. We do keep some of our favourite dishes, but change what might taste great for this time of year. An example would be our new duck dish; crispy duck Maryland, blood orange glaze, red cabbage, roast garlic mash. When possible, do you buy local produce and how important is this, in your opinion? We always look to use local suppliers where possible. Sometimes the weather can effect what produce we can get, but mostly there is always a producer that can help out. We live in such a great growing area and local produce has such great flavours. We source Dorrigo goat sausages, Bellingen bacon and ham, local olives, free range eggs, just to name a few. We also grow, in our rear and side garden, most of our herbs. If we support our local producers, it’s a win-win for all. As a fully licensed restaurant, we offer a great

range of drinks. We have been sourcing small boutique wineries that are probably not known to many people in the area. The reason behind this is that all the commercial wines you see in the bottle shops are mass produced, and you don’t get to taste or have access to the amazing wines produced by small wineries. We have a great range from all around Australia. Our local beer, which we have on tap, is from The Bellingen Brewery. As I said, we like to offer a great selection. Tell us about the team, including the team out the back ... That view! What a fabulous place you have; do we need to book? My team in the kitchen is lead by Head Chef Andrew. He has numerous years’ experience in the industry and makes sure the kitchen runs efficiently with high standards. The team all have great hospitality experience and work extremely hard for us to have achieved our award and continued business. Our opinion is that our team is the face of the business, and we expect the best from each and everyone. Our view?! What can I say, except we have the best location. People forget about the Northern Beaches, and I think a drive north from Coffs for many would be a pleasant surprise - especially with the new road open. A quick trip on the new highway brings you to our perfect location for a relaxed meal. We can watch the whales migrate or dolphins pass, or just look out to the beautiful Solitary Islands. Bookings are recommended to guarantee a table - especially on weekends, when everyone loves a morning out. Also by booking we can offer our best tables for our fabulous view. We also do functions, and we can cater for all types from birthdays to weddings and anything really you wish to celebrate. Hope to see you at Saltwater soon. Thank you for your time, Amy. 104 Fiddaman Rd, Emerald Beach. Phone: (02) 6656 1888. coffs coast focus 37

TARGETED BYDESIGN

a monthly feature on design, marketing, and communications

saso.creative Where it all went wrong… For most small businesses, their website is, or should be, a serious bit of their business kit. To stay ahead of your competitors, you need to make your website matter. Think about it: if a customer or potential customer is browsing your site, then, ipso facto, they want something you’ve got.

JETTY THEATRE IN OCTOBER Nautilus has a Hidden Gem Coffs Lane Bistro Relaxed atmosphere, classic meals with lots of attention and passion. Breakfast with thick cut Bellingen bacon, organic truss tomatoes, vanilla pancakes and other not to miss breakfast essentials. Lunch with BYO options offering light homemade ravioli, gnocchi, salad options fresh tuna nicoise, fresh swordfish cakes and a selection of fresh fishes like Snapper, Barramundi, Mulloway with your choice of garnish and homemade sauce. Coffs Lane Bistro is offering real value for money. New products are morning tea $8.00 per person, including homemade friands, muffins, scones and barista coffee. High tea options available too. Coffs Lane bistro is tightly cooperating with Nautilus management to offer the right venue for your next special occasion. Sunrise wedding? Sounds interesting? Give us a call. Make your next booking on 0421 781 231 or coffslanebistro@gmail.com

The days are getting longer, the air is getting warmer… and more entertainment is coming your way at the Jetty Memorial Theatre. Bootlace Productions 30th Anniversary Celebration – Friday 3 October 8pm. Bootlace Productions invite you to join them in celebrating 30 years of commitment to community theatre in Coffs Harbour. An evening of performance, with special guest Nick Hardcastle from Los Angeles, USA. Rumors – Wednesday 8 to Sunday 19 October. Oh, what a tangled web we weave… Audiences are assured of a rollicking good time as this comedy of errors unfolds, presented by CHATS. Set at a party gone-wrong at the house of Sydney’s Deputy Mayor in the swanky suburb of Lane Cove. James Reyne – Thursday 23 October 8pm. Enjoy an intimate acoustic evening with James Reyne, performing a collection of the songs that have been part of his remarkable and highly successful career to date. Tom Ballard – Saturday 1 November 8pm. Currently on ABC’s Reality Check each Wednesday, Tom Ballard formerly of "Tom and Alex on Triple J breakfast, is coming to Coffs Harbour to entertain us with his stand-up comedy. With material that Time Out Sydney says is, "Tightly paced, perfectly delivered and funny as hell", his show is not to be missed! See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office noon-4pm, Tues to Fri. (02) 6652 8088.

A poorly designed or poorly planned website is worse than not having a website at all. Here are some pitfalls to avoid: (1) Don’t let urgency trump understanding. We’ve had many clients take years to decide to get a website, and then want it all done in a few weeks. That’s okay if you know exactly what you want, but make sure you know what your target market wants of a website - and how you’re going to satisfy that need — before rushing headlong into design issues. (2) Don’t overlook calls-to-action. Information-only pages have their place, but even if, to you, your offer seems self-evident, you need to tell customers to use the service you’re offering. If you sell products, make sure you have a Buy button; if you’re a service operator, don’t forget the Call or Quote link. Sounds obvious, but it’s amazing how many websites leave customers dangling without a clear call-to-action. (3) Budget wisely. We’ve done dozen of web fix-ups, and all of them stem from the business owner not knowing what they’re getting for the price. Like most things, you get what you pay for and many small businesses have been taken for a ride with an average site and long list of paid add-ons to take it beyond crappy. (4) Don’t let it go stale. It’s not enough that you’ve got a website: you need to keep it fresh and relevant. New, interesting, informative content is what people expect of websites nowdays. It’s a must-do, not a maybe. If your content dies, people will assume you’ve gone out of business. And so will Google. (5) Don’t leave it to second-cousin Curtis. If you read our blog, you’ve already met Curtis. He’s a know-it-all knob whom you wouldn’t trust to wash your car, but whom you will let design your website because he’s va whiz at Word and he once picked some nice curtains for Aunty Lil. Is that really all your business is worth?

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6658 7666 38 coffs coast focus.

M E E T DA N I E L D E BA K K E R & E M I LY A L E X A N D E R

OBSERVATORY HOLIDAY APARTMENTs

hen did you both take over the management of The Observatory Holiday Apartments Coffs Harbour? Early January this year. What were you doing you before The Observatory? I was the Service Manager at Speedy Lube Automotive and Tune Up Centre Coffs Harbour for nine years, and my wife Emily was working in retail. Are you both from the Coffs Coast? I am originally from Camden in Sydney, and moved up here 14 years ago. I am loving the change in climate and lifestyle. Emily was living in ACT, and we both much prefer the weather! We both have family in Urunga and Nambucca

Heads and we have often holidayed up here; the transition was an easy one. What are the main attractions to your property? Apart from the awesome views and whale watching (laughs), our location. We are only a 10 minute walk to the beach, the Marina, Muttonbird Island, kids' playgrounds and the gorgeous historic jetty. A short walk to the Jetty strip, Jetty Memorial Theatre and the Promenade Shopping Village. The Deep Sea Fishing Club, Surf Club Restaurant and various markets are also a stone’s throw away. Another tourist attraction in walking distance is the Dolphin Marine Magic and the benefit of all of this is? Our guests don't need a car! How many apartments and what facilities

do you offer? We have 21 self-contained apartments (ocean and foreshore views/spa baths available) • 5 three bedroom townhouses •12 two bedroom apartments • 4 ocean view studio apartments. A salt water pool, guest laundry, 2 outdoor BBQ areas, free Wi-Fi and car parking. There is no minimum night stay. The location is fantastic; do you ever get tired of the views? (Laughs). No, never, and we love falling asleep and waking up to the sound of the ocean. What do you love most of all about your job? Customer service definitely – it’s fun to be a part of our guests' experience on the Coffs Coast. We love receiving reviews and

feedback. Our guests can be corporate, family holidaymakers, weekend getaways or travellers who want a place to rest their heads and walk to dinner to stretch their legs. We have a lot of people staying here for family reunions and wedding guests and families. Working with local businesses is another thing we love to do – cross promotions and competitions. We recently organised and gave away a "Competition Coffs", where the winner received two nights' accommodation with us, all breakfasts with the Surf Club Restaurant and four diving experiences with Jetty Dive (over $700). Great fun! You want to share your piece of the Coffs Coast with our locals; what are you offering? Check out our offer below.

coffs coast focus 39

focusinterview.

PARK BEACH

B O W L S

CLUB IN 1959 PARK BEACH BOWLS CLUB FIRST SWUNG OPEN THEIR DOORS. SINCE THEN, THE CLUB HAS EVOLVED AND IS NOW REGARDED AS ONE OF

Manager grant

THE PREMIER LAWN BOWLING CLUBS IN NSW. THE BOWLS CLUB ATTRACTS COMPETITORS TO OUR REGION FROM ALL OVER AUSTRALIA AND ND INTERNATIONALLY …

hat is your role at the club? I have been the CEO of the club since June 2013. Park Beach Bowls Club is an institution in Coffs Harbour and attracts people of all ages; what are some of the facilities the club offers? The club offers world class bowling greens, numerous function facilities, full TAB and Keno, gaming, friendly staff, great atmosphere. It's just like being with family. It's a great place to meet and catch up with friends. For those who are planning their Christmas parties, what is on offer, and should we book? Last year the club saw a surge in barefoot bowls as a Christmas function idea, with spots filling quickly. So, book now with our administration and events manager, who will be able to offer many different types of packages to suit all your party needs. What functions does the club cater for? The club holds many various types of functions, including birthday parties, weddings, social get togethers, conferences, training courses, sporting groups, meetings both corporate, sporting and charitable groups. What entertainment does the club offer? Every Friday and Saturday night from 7pm 40 coffs coast focus.

the club has free entertainment in the Main Bar, with acts both local and national for the enjoyment of members and guests. The bistro is known for its delicious meals that are affordable. Please expand on the menu and also the specials... Great specials from our chefs daily, including the Tomahawk – 1.2 kg of ent Great entertainm rib fillet on the bone; as we come into es with or come try the ar the w mer tim d Saleen lunchtime specials. Beatle Magic an ember, ov N Minimum of 10 McAlister in Tommy d an es ffl meals for $12 each, Mega Ra lead into Memphis as we ood bowls co-ordinator seven days a week. tw Christmas, Flee for further Can anyone use the e r th ac and Remembe ’s M details on other greens, or do you Year Eighties on New opportunities. need to be a member Eve. ” Do you offer courtesy to try out a game? bus service? Absolutely anyone can The Club operates a come along to the club and try courtesy bus service on Mondays, the game. Although social membership Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from is only $5, we have Business House Bowls 4:30pm. Simply call reception to book. during October and November on Tuesday Arrangements can be organised for the bus nights, plus during January we hold barefoot to collect you for your function as well; please bowls each Sunday of the month (this includes advise when booking your function. entertainment, a meal and a couple of drinks What can we look forward to as the along with the bowls). If you enjoy the game weather warms up? and want to take it further, there are several Great entertainment as we come into the options to help you with your game, including warmer times, with Beatle Magic and Saleen coaching on Saturday mornings, or contact the

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McAlister in November, Mega Raffles and Tommy Memphis as we lead into Christmas, Fleetwood Mac and Remember the Eighties on New Year’s Eve. What benefits do the members receive when they join? Why not join our club and receive benefits from when you walk through the doors, discount drinks at the bar, regular members' only promotions, various vouchers to celebrate your birthday and regular members' specials in the bistro, plus participate in our member draws for great prizes twice a week! Park Beach Bowls Club, Ocean Parade, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour. 6652 3622.

Photo: Emma Rhoades Photography

Exciting news for Coffs Coast Event Catering and Sawtell Golf Club New Function Venue We are expanding. Not only do we do mobile catering; we now also have venue catering at Sawtell Golf Club. It has an amazing function room that will seat 150 comfortably available for weddings, parties and conferences. The outlook from the undercover deck is incredible. There is even a gorgeous area for your ceremony and some spectacular places for photos. We have an extensive range of menus available to suit any style and budget. Drinks are at club prices. The Golf Club is waiving all room hire fees for functions held until the end of the year, when you mention this advert. Conference needs are catered for, with data projectors, PA systems, microphones and whiteboards all included in the very reasonable room charge. We are able to offer very affordable morning/afternoon tea and lunch packages. We would love you to come and have a look at our new venue, so give us a call and make a time to come and see what we have to offer; you won’t be disappointed. Christmas Parties Do you want a Christmas party the staff will talk about all year? Look no further; we have the ultimate evening

planned. We will be hosting a dinner theatre with a difference. You are invited to Seamus O'Malley's Pub + Gub for a killer Treasure Hunt. A murder will take place, and it will be up to you to solve the mystery. Come dressed in your favourite Irish or treasure hunting attire and enjoy a scrumptious three course meal, washed down with ale from the bar. It’s sure to be a fabulous night, so book early to avoid disappointment. The 3 course dinner and show is only $50 per head. Dates are Friday and Saturday nights 21, 22, 28, 29 November and 5, 6 December, with a matinee on Sunday 7th December. Please call or email for more infomation on venues and times, or to make a booking: 6653 6262 or annettecook1@bigpond.com

CELEBRITY DANCE

FOR CANCER CELEBRITY DANCE FOR CANCER IS A GALA FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR CANCER COUNCIL NSW. NOW IN ITS FIFTH YEAR, THE EVENT TAKES PLACE ON THE SATURDAY CLOSET TO WORLD CANCER DAY.

ancer Council NSW has eight high profile Coffs Coast business people teaming up with eight professional dancers from the Coffs Coast to perform one dance at the event. There will be other light entertainment included on the program. Last year the event was sold out, with 440 guests attending the gala evening. Tell us about the name change, and what is different from last year? Yes, we have made a few changes as we move in to our fifth year. From an events perspective, we need to keep the event evolving, and we need to keep surprising our audience. As you can see, it is now called Celebrity Dance for Cancer, and we also have two new MCs. We have EJ, the breakfast show co-host on 2CS, and Alice Williams from Axis Print Solutions, who has MCed a number of events, including the Sasebo Sister City Celebration Dinners. We also have a few new dance teachers on board, whom I will talk about later. How much money has this fundraiser raised for Cancer Council NSW in the past years since inception? The event has just grown and grown. When we first started the event in 2011, we thought it would run for a couple of years and then it would fizzle out, but people love to see their friends and work colleagues perform! In the first year the event raised just over $55,000, and it kept going up from there. The 2014 event raised just over $101,000. What are some of the fundraising activities that the dancers participate in, and what is the most creative fundraiser you've seen in your time organising the event? There have been some great fundraisers over the years – dinners, auctions, garage sales, film nights, fashion parades and garden parties. I think one of the most creative came from Steve Allan from Urunga Amcal Pharmacy, who,

incidentally, raised just over $22,000! He held A Day at the Races on the banks of the beautiful Kalang River. There were virtual horse races, Fashions on the Field, live music, and as it was early November, a Melbourne Cup Calcutta. Who are the gorgeous dance teachers that we have this year? Any new ones on board that we need to look out for? We have a couple of new teachers this year – Xaeda from Sacred Lotus Bellydance will be teaching belly dancing to Renee Atkins from Beachbodies. Coffs Latin Rhythms have a new dance teacher moving to Coffs in October, so he will be teaching his Salsa moves to Glenda Halliwell from The Travel Centre. As always, we have our wonderful dance teachers who have been teaching our stars since the inception of the event in 2011: the lovely Carol Myers from Pacific Dancentre, who will be teaching two stars in ballroom style; Sandy and Dale Smith, the Rock and Rollers from Razzle Dazzle Rockers; Carol Young from Woolgoolga Dance Studio, who will be impressing us with her musical theatre; and Christina Monneron from Kulturithmik and Kate Sevenoaks, who both taught stars in the first year, will be back again for 2015. Christina will be teaching Cuban Salsa and Kate will be dancing a musical theatre with her star. Tickets always sell out fast; where can we buy them? Tickets will be available from mid October from long time major sponsor of the event, C.ex Coffs. The staff there always do such a fantastic job on the night, that it is a delight to hold the event there.

the plug! Saturday 7 February 2015. at C.ex Coffs www.facebook.com/ dancingwithcoffscoaststars

coffs coast focus 41

By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

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Editorial

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INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

JENNY HOLDING 29 years young and mother of a gorgeous two year old. Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Varelle Johnson. This month we are catching up with Jenny Holding and her Personal Trainer, Tracy Welsh, to hear her inspiring story.

hat is your diet and exercise background, Jenny? Before starting at Coffs Coast Health Club, my diet and exercise background basically consisted of “a lot of doing nothing”. So where do you think it all went wrong? I started to put on weight around the 12 13 year age group, when I started high school. How did that make you feel? It made me feel very unattractive. I was shy and didn’t really talk to people because of it. What motivated you to find a solution to the problem? I was motivated to find a solution to the problem when I went to see my Kidney Specialist. He told me I only had one working kidney and if I didn’t change my ways, it could lead to all kinds of serious health problems. How did you go about making that positive change? I walked into Coffs Coast Health Club with the support of my partner, and got started. Why did you choose Tracy as your Personal Trainer and what have you been doing together to achieve your goals? I chose Tracy as my Personal Trainer because the day I met her we got along well, and I felt very comfortable around her. Tracy has listened 42 coffs coast focus.

to and supported me with exercises specially selected for my abilities and experience. She doesn’t let me give up! Who or what else have you used in conjunction with Tracy to achieve these goals? I joined the Healthy Inspirations weight loss program within the club and was coached by Simone, who worked closely with Tracy. Simone helped me get the eating side of things under control. What is your goal for the future? My goals are to continue going to the club to get stronger and stay healthy, which makes me feel much happier. How do others feel about your success? My family is very proud of me and help push me to keep going. How do you feel about your success? I feel proud that I have come so far, and I now have the courage in myself to keep going. What is the most useful advice you can share with our readers? The most useful advice I can give is … if you have had a bad day or week, just pick yourself up and get back on track there and then. Thanks for sharing, Jenny, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club or contact 6658 6222 today.

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1. Vitamins Rich in vitamin B vitamins, C, and E.

•MACA ROOT• MACA, A ROOT THAT BELONGS TO THE RADISH FAMILY, IS MOST COMMONLY AVAILABLE IN POWDER FORM. Grown in Peru, it is often referred to as “Peruvian ginseng”. Maca’s benefits have been long valued, and the benefits are below:

2. Boosts libido Maca is widely used to promote sexual function of both men and women. 3. Menstrual improvement Maca relieves menstrual issues and menopause. It alleviates cramps, body pain, hot flashes, anxiety, mood swings, and depression. 4. Energy Within days of using maca, your energy level may increase. It is also known for increasing stamina. 5. General health Maca helps your overall health in a number of ways. It supplies iron and helps restore red blood cells, which aids anaemia and cardiovascular diseases. Maca keeps your bones and teeth healthy and allows you to heal from wounds more quickly. When used in conjunction with a good workout regime, you will notice an increase in muscle mass. 6. Skin Many people take maca for skin issues, as for some people it helps to clear acne and blemishes.

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7. Mood balance If you find yourself overcome with anxiety, stress, depression or mood swings, maca may help alleviate these symptoms, though the evidence is anecdotal.

JETTY HOLISTIC HEALTH Our goal is your optimal health. With todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stressors and environmental pollutants, most of us can at times feel sluggish and overwhelmed. This is a sign that the body is struggling to detoxify and the nervous system is unbalanced. You may experience insomnia, anxiety, bloating and a general lack in energy. Others may notice that they are reacting to hormonal fluctuations or their skin is breaking out. These can all indicate toxin overload in the body. The best and quickest way to address this is through a detoxification program, and spring is the perfect time to do this. After just four weeks you will feel lighter, more motivated, sleep better and your energy levels will increase greatly. Detoxifying the body in preparation for

conception will allow for optimal reproduction in both men and women, leading to a healthier pregnancy, baby and reducing the risk of miscarriage. There is no extreme fasting or dietary restrictions on this detoxification program. You will simply eat a healthy diet rich in fresh unprocessed foods and with the aid of supplements, your body will naturally detoxify. We also offer a range of health services, including massage and osteopathy. Or, try our ecologically conscientious cleaning products and biodynamic skin care range to reduce the toxic load on your body further. Visit our store for a browse, a chat and to claim your FREE mini treatment if you mention this article.

coffs coast focus 43

focusinterview by Maggie Quirk, Coastal Media

STEVE MONEGHETTI STEVE MONEGHETTI OAM IS AN AUSTRALIAN SPORTING LEGEND. HE HAS REPRESENTED AUSTRALIA AT FOUR COMMONWEALTH GAMES, WINNING THE COMPLETE SET OF MARATHON MEDALS, CULMINATING IN GOLD IN 1994 IN CANADA AND SHOWING HIS VERSATILITY WITH A BRONZE MEDAL IN THE 10KM TRACK EVENT AT THE 1998 GAMES IN KUALA LUMPUR. HE ATTENDED SIX WORLD ATHLETIC CHAMPIONSHIPS, WINNING A BRONZE MEDAL IN THE MARATHON EVENT IN ATHENS IN 1997.

hree Top Ten finishes in four appearances at the Olympic Games completes his imposing championship record. He has been coming to Coffs Harbour for the past 20 years promoting the sport. You seem to spend a lot of time on the Coffs Coast. Why are you so closely connected to the area, and what do you like about our region? Mick Maley invited me up about 20 years ago for a junior triathlon. Then when the Coffs Harbour Running Festival was in its infancy, Mick contacted me again so as a favour to him, I came up for it. The Coffs Coast has good weather, the people are good, I love the track and for me to support the Running Festival is giving something back to the sport I love. It’s become bit of a call to action for the locals, and I’m delighted to lend my name to it. The charities that benefit from the event are local charities, so I feel like I’m doing something for the region as well. What is it about the track that you like? I like the soft surface. It’s in the bush, so you feel as if could be running anywhere in the world, yet you’re so close to town. I’ve always been a person who likes to run with the environment. With this track you’ve got the river on the left, and you’re in the forest. I like being close to the environment. I love that this track is designed for walkers and runners and it’s suitable for families. 44 coffs coast focus.

What has been your proudest career moment, and what is the biggest lesson you've learnt along the way? Most people would think it was my most successful run, but my proudest moment was actually entering the stadium at the Sydney Olympics, because I’d decided that was to be my last marathon representing Australia. I had a pretty good run, I finished tenth; I think I was 37 by then. There were 120,000 people there; it was a full stadium, so to be able to share that moment with all of those people, including my family, my mum and dad was a lovely way to be able to say goodbye. That was quite an emotional experience and a perfect way to finish my career. As a child you were not considered to be a strong runner. At what stage in your life did that change? It’s interesting; I always enjoyed running, but I wasn’t seen to be that good at the shorter distances you run when you’re at school. I just ran because it was quite social. I found a good friendship group through running, so I kept doing it. At about 16 I won an under17 Victorian road race, and I realised I was improving. I feel like I didn’t actually improve that drastically but as distances got longer, I found myself further up in the race. I love what I do and I do it for the personal challenge, not for the public accolades, and I still choose to do it now. Some of the biggest highlights of your career have been at the Commonwealth

Games, including amazing to go to your With this track er riv e th t go winning a gold first Olympics. ve u’ yo re u’ yo d an , ft in the 1994 How would you le e on th e being lik I . st re fo marathon event. e prepare both th in ronment. How does it feel mentally and close to the envi k is ac I love that this tr rs and to have a gold physically for a big ke designed for wal itable medal to your run? And how do su runners and it’s name? you get through the for families .” That was pain barrier during special, because the the run? Commonwealth Games I’d never do anything in is something that is close a race that I hadn’t done in to my heart. That’s where I ran training. So I trained at a pretty my first marathon and where I got my consistent and high level and I would start. I won a bronze medal then in my be on the start line mentally prepared first marathon ever, and then four years for what was coming, because I knew I was later I won a silver, so the gold in Canada physically in really good shape. Whist it is in ’94 was made extra special because I’d sort hard, for me it is the result of the journey that of come through that process winning lesser I’ve travelled in training, so the outcome will medals in the two previous games. It’s almost look after itself if you prepare properly. I love like I’d achieved what I’d set out to do; I had a having the goal and the race to reflect the full set then. training I’ve done. You have also participated in the Olympics You are the record holder in Australia's four times. When was the first, and what iconic 14 km City 2 Surf - do you still was the experience like for you? participate in this event, and do you still The first one was Seoul in 1988, and it strive to beat your record every time? was incredible to achieve a dream. I always (Laughing.) I’m never going to beat that thought as a youngster that I’d love to go to record. That was a good one, one of my the Olympic Games as a runner. The marathon career's best, I think, and it’s stood now for goes for over two hours, so in the last five 23 years. Rob de Castella held it before me for or ten minutes I was in fifth place and I was ten years; it’s an iconic race and Australians pinching myself, thinking from that day on I love to get their name on the trophy, so for me could call myself an Olympian - and that’s a to have that record for so long is something pretty select group. As a kid from Ballarat, it’s I’m proud of. I hope someone from the next

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focusinterview.

generation of runners can break it. You are currently the Australian Commonwealth Games Chef de Mission. What does this prestigious title mean to you? For me it is a chance to give back to the Commonwealth Games and to the Australian team. It’s a team leader, but effectively I choose to make it a situation where I can help athletes. I try to be on the ground making their preparation and performance the best that they possibly can. It’s also to protect the brand. There are 400 athletes and 200 officials who are a part of the Australian team, so my role is to make sure that all of those individuals understad their responsibilities and stick to promoting and representing the brand, and Australia, well. Running has become a massive part of our culture, especially in metro areas … it's not unusual to see literally thousands of people tearing up tracks like The Tan, Melbourne Botanical Gardens on any given day. Why do you think the sport has boomed in the past decade? And how good is it for me? To see that transition over my career and to think that I may have played a minor part in it … I remember when I first started running and people thought I was crazy and they’d say, “What are you doing that for?” It’s like a rite of passage for people to do a half marathon or a marathon now, and that’s obviously very fulfilling for me. To see people taking control of their exercise regime and sharing the experience with so many like-minded people is very fulfilling. Did you struggle with that old mentality when you were starting out; people thinking you were crazy? I got a bit of strength from it, because I thought, “I love what I do and I’ll prove you wrong. I’ve got a path I want to follow, and I’m not going to waver from it.” So that was my strong resolve; that’s my personality. And once I started becoming successful, it became reinforced, because the people who had given me grief then wanted to be a part of it. What tips would you give to runners who are just starting out? Running can be quite difficult and it’s a bit of a transitional sport, so you need to allow time for your body to adjust. If I lined up ten people, those people would all progress at different rates, so don’t compare yourself to someone else; it’s all relative to you. It’s also good to start with a walk, because the load bearing on your body can be difficult to adjust to so you need to balance that out – a bit of cross training, a bit of walking. And set yourself a goal, because you need to have something to

work towards. What does your average weekly running regime look like nowadays, and how does that compare to when you were competing? Generally I used to run 200 km a week, training twice a day, every day. My goal at the moment is to run half of that. I try to get 100 km a week. That’s a part of my DNA; I like to set a goal that stretches me a little bit and forces me to commit. To be honest , I’m So, you’re 51 and good at running; still running 100 I enjoy it’s easy for me, km per week. t, it en the environm Can you ever , it’s a el av tr to gets me t I was see yourself passion, it’s wha hy w slowing down? born to do - so ? I just gs in th I am slowing complicate do. ” I t ha w g in down; I’m actually keep do running a personal worst at every race that I turn up to, so my performance is deteriorating run by run - but I love what I do. I set personal challenges and sometimes I meet them, sometimes I don’t - it’s no different to when I was winning races. To be honest, I’m good at running, it’s easy for me, I enjoy the environment, it gets me to travel, it’s a passion, it’s what I was born to do - so why complicate things? I just keep doing what I do. Hopefully I can do that physically for a while and mentally I can still enjoy it for the foreseeable future without putting an end point on it. I’m sure my body will tell me one day, but at the moment I’m still going well and still enjoying it. Was it a difficult mentality to adjust to going from striving to be the best in the world to continuing to run but trying not to compete? It was a little bit for a while, because I was still winning lots of races. Initially I was going too well for myself. I wanted to get out of the major events, but I was accidentally getting selected - if that makes sense? And then I went through the transition, where I was no longer able to make the teams. Now I’m in a good space where I’m comfortable; I know I’m never going to make a team, I don’t need to, and people are just happy that I’m involved. It’s more of a mentor role now. I was at the Commonwealth Games when a lot of the distance runners were running so well in the marathon and at the track. I’m very comfortable with that role, where I support lots of people and can still see the successes of a lot of the people who have come through distance running, and that’s a good space to be in.

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focusinterview.

WOMEN’S HEALTH

hat services does Baringa Hospital offer regarding women’s health? Baringa Rehabilitation offers outpatient assessment and treatment by a physiotherapist specifically trained in women’s health issues, such as incontinence, prolapse and postoperative gynaecological surgery. Education and treatment is provided immediately postoperatively, as well as follow up land based and hydrotherapy classes that offer ongoing supervision and instruction from a physiotherapist trained in women’s health and core stability. How will I know if I would benefit from core and pelvic floor exercises? Current research shows that one in three women will be incontinent at some stage. This incidence increases with the number

46 coffs coast focus.

For sufferers of

“

fer of pregnancies, floor and core muscles, back pain, we of ith w and as you age. If making the exercises st si as to y ap ther ur core yo g you find yourself far more effective. If in en th ng re st muscles needing to rush to the you are unsure, it is and pelvic floor ng .” ro toilet, or experience worthwhile seeing your to make them st leakage when doctor. A physiotherapist coughing or laughing, trained in women’s health book a physiotherapy will assist you to strengthen appointment for education and the pelvic floor. Real time strengthening of your pelvic floor. At ultrasound can be used for pelvic Baringa you will find the support you need floor instruction. from friendly, professional physiotherapists How can I access these services? who will assist you in this important area. You do not require a referral to our For sufferers of back pain, we offer therapy to service, but you may speak to your doctor assist with strengthening your core and pelvic or gynaecologist about a referral to see a floor muscles to make them strong. women's health physiotherapist at Baringa Have there been changes to the way Rehabilitation. They will be able to assess pelvic floor exercises are taught? your pelvic floor strength and teach you how Yes, like any medical field of knowledge, to activate and strengthen these important there have been improvements in the way muscles together with your core muscles. This patients are instructed to strengthen pelvic will enable you to exercise safely, and protect

your lower back, while bringing specific control to the relevant muscles. We offer individual treatment and regular classes, both in the gym and the hydrotherapy pool. Are there any new areas Baringa Rehabilitation is looking into for the future of women’s health? We are currently exploring how we might expand our services to women during and following cancer treatment. Our well equipped gymnasium and hydrotherapy pool is warmed and temperature regulated to provide a great opportunity for these women. Family members would be welcome too, under the instruction and supervision of physiotherapy staff. If you have questions, feel free to contact us on (02) 6658 0322 at Baringa Rehabilitation. We look forward to being of assistance to you. Kathy Ward, Kylie Margetson. Thanks everyone.

Embark on Your Journey

Coffs cardiology

To get in shape with Pilates and yoga is to embark on a journey of not just physical fitness, but a complete coordination of body, mind, and spirit. Everyone talks about how Pilates gives you a strong core, long, lean muscles, and even weight loss. We say that if you commit to a regular Pilates training, those are among the benefits you can enjoy as a side effect. "A uniformly developed body with a sound mind fully capable of naturally, easily, and satisfactorily performing our many and varied daily tasks with spontaneous zest and pleasure." Joseph Pilates. That's what it means to get in shape with Pilates! You've probably heard that yoga is great to reduce stress, increase flexibility, and improve your overall health. But can yoga help you get in shape? We say, most definitely! If you have never done yoga and Pilates before, the best thing to do is sign up for a series of our beginners' classes. Add these to a regular massage: did you know that massage can improve performance, aid recovery, prevent and eliminate injuries, reduce stress and even enhance metabolism and circulation? Our team of highly qualified Pilates, Yoga, Gyrotonic, Gyrokinesis teachers and massage therapists are here to help you achieve “healthy, happy body, mind and soul regardless of your current physical condition. Just begin.

In 1994, Coffs Cardiology opened its doors and since then, has grown into a vibrant and caring practice. It provides all those services available in City Cardiac Units. Working closely with the Coffs Harbour Health Campus, Dr Waites has also developed Cardiac Services at the Base Hospital.

Assertive Communication Training For men, women, job hunters, employers, employees, school students, school leavers, mums, dads, grandparents, EVERYONE! This program is for anyone who feels they: • would like help with their communication skills • are constantly letting other people walk over them • are unable to speak up, refuse requests, question authority • have difﬁculty knowing how to start, continue or terminate conversations • aren't able to express their opinions or emotions in a positive way • would like help with intense resentment or explosive aggression For info and bookings, please call us on (02) 6653 7489. Places are limited. Programs are due to start on 13th and 24th October and run on Mondays or Fridays - two hours per week for three weeks.

They are able to perform complex cardiac procedures which previously required transfer to Sydney. They have visiting Cardiothoracic Surgeon and Paediatric Cardiologists. Coffs Cardiology is proud to offer the whole suite of cardiac services – consultations, 24 hour ambulatory blood pressure and Holter monitoring for rhythm disturbances, stress testing and echocardiography, as well as pacemaker and deﬁbrillator interrogation and programming. With their Clinical Trials Unit, they are at the forefront of drug development and through the hospital they access the Coronary Angiography Laboratory, enabling diagnostic and curative procedures to occur. They liaise with our Rheumatology colleagues, operating the ﬁrst Rural Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Clinic in the country. Their highly trained staff of 13 have a training program whereby local individuals are trained in cardiac technology. Their staff members are extremely well trained, focused and loyal, caring for all patients. Their equipment is brand new and state of the art.

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S H A R I N G

SOUNDS O F L I F E THIS MOTHER AND DAUGHTER WON’T EVER TAKE THEIR HEARING FOR GRANTED.

When Trudy Phemister discovered her 6 year old, Abbi, had a problem with her hearing, it was all the more emotional, as Trudy herself began wearing hearing aids earlier this year. Trudy shares her story in the hope that more parents will seek help for their children and themselves if they suspect a hearing problem. When did you realise Abbi had hearing loss? Abbi couldn’t pronounce her words properly, so her teacher suggested we get her hearing checked. After visiting Primary Health at the hospital, we were referred onto Australian Hearing for a full hearing assessment. We saw Megan, the Audiologist, who was just fantastic with Abbi and confirmed she had hearing loss in both ears. It was very emotional and I felt like I was giving her my deafness, which is not the case at all. I didn’t want Abbi to fall behind in her

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learning like I did because of my dyslexia. Children are eligible for hearing aids and support at no cost through Australian Hearing. How did they help you? Abbi was soon fitted with hearing aids, and she chose the colour pink. Australian Hearing also arranged for my hearing aids to have new pink moulds to match Abbi, so we are both the same. It is so fantastic! We are very happy. How is Abbi feeling about her new hearing aids? Abbi took to them like a duck to water. I was much more concerned than Abbi was. She picked it up just like riding a bike … she wears them the whole time now. She loves her pink hearing aids! Just the other day we were at the shops and she was looking at herself in the mirror, flicking her hair back to show off her pink ears. She is so proud of them.

Have hearing aids helped Abbi in the classroom and at home? Abbi has more confidence, as she can hear and speak properly now. She is lucky to have her friend Harriett in her class who has had hearing aids for some time (also through Australian Hearing) and she sets a good example for Abbi. Her friends and their teacher have been so great … It’s like she isn’t different to anyone else. I have also noticed the difference at home. Her voice is much softer, and I don’t have to yell at her as much to make sure she hears things. No more repeating myself! What difference has wearing hearing aids made to your life Trudy? I knew I had a hearing problem for a while, but I didn’t do anything about it. My husband noticed it, saying, “You’re as deaf as a post!” and told me to sort it out. That’s why I

eventually got help from Australian Hearing and was fitted with hearing aids. (Provided at no cost, as Trudy is on a disability pension.) It was the best thing I’ve ever done! I noticed I could hear the rain on the roof again. I could also hear typing and the mouse clicks on the computer. My friends notice I don’t need to yell as much. Any advice for parents who may be concerned about their child’s speech or hearing? It’s been emotional, but in a short time we are used to having hearing aids. It doesn’t hurt to get your child’s hearing tested. It could help them in the long run … there’s nothing to be afraid of. Children, young adults, eligible pensioners and veterans can receive government-funded hearing assessments and hearing aids through Australian Hearing.

focusinterview.

MINI Mini Golf is coming to Coffs Harbour. The Big Banana is very excited to announce the development of a new 36 hole Mini Golf course within its grounds. Mini Golf is a fun and affordable family attraction that caters for all ages and skills levels.

hat is your role at The Big Coffs Harbour is an excellent location for this Banana? What are some of type of activity because of the high flow of the new developments? I’m tourist traffic, as well as the relatively large the General Manager at The local population. We will be creating two Big Banana, and I am very pleased to announce challenging and fun courses that will appeal that we have the development of a 36 hole to all ages. The undulating courses will feature mini golf course underway, which is many natural obstacles that will really test being constructed by Mini Golf players’ skills.” Australia. Is this targeted at tourists Is it all ages fun? only, or will it be a fun Yes, it is. Mini Golf family day for locals as We are very is one attraction that well? e b excited to e people of all ages We thought of our th involved withof this can get involved locals first when we n constructio n. Coffs o ti in, and it’s a great decided to construct this ac new attr ent ll ce ex an is r game that everyone attraction. We feel that u o Harb pe ty is th r fo n o in the family can play ti this high end development loca together, and at the will fill a gap in the region of activity... ” same time. and will give locals a nice Tell us about the place to come and enjoy some construction of this new time with family and friends. attraction? How many holes is the course The attraction will be positioned and are there obstacles? between the main building and the There will be 36 holes in total (2 x 18 hole Toboggan ride, on over 1,000 square courses) and each hole will have different metres of land. It will consist of two 18 hole “natural” obstacles, including boulders, rocks, mini golf courses, one that will be slightly easier sand bunkers, rough and much more. On top for younger kids, and the second will be a little of these obstacles, the varying undulations of more challenging and will cater for older kids the land will create a challenge in itself! and adults, although we are certain that people When can we expect it will be open? of all ages will enjoy both courses. The course Construction has commenced and is is being constructed by a highly experienced expected to be completed by the end of company, “Mini Golf Australia” (MGA). MGA October, weather permitting. have created some wonderful courses all The Big Banana Pty Ltd, around the country and Brian Dee from MGA 351 Pacific HWY, said, “We are very excited to be involved Coffs Harbour. with the construction of this new attraction. 6652 4355

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YOGA FOR THE SEASONS WITH LISA TELFORD

YOGA F O R

T H E

SEASONS Dr Alan Burrow Optometrist Dip Optom F.B.O.A. (HD) D.C.L.P. D.ORTH. F.B.C.O. MSC.(Med.) G.C.O.T. M.OPTOM. G.C.B.A

As an independent optometric practice, we have access to an extremely broad range of quality frames from numerous suppliers to cater for the vast majority of patient requirements. Unlike previous tinted “clip-ons” which did not match the frame and were an obvious attachment, Convertibles have polarised lenses which are individually customised for the frame, resulting in the appearance of normal sunglasses.

It's DETOX TIME TO ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF SPRING AND SET YOU UP FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR, DETOX NOW! IT CAN BE AS EASY OR AS

The Convertibles Titanium range sets the standard for contemporary, functional eyewear. With a lighter yet stronger durable anti-corrosive and hypo allergenic frame, Convertibles Eyewear features sophisticated designs fused with cutting edge technology.

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Style and comfort deliver the ultimate in UV protection. Utilising state of the art design solutions and patented technology, each Convertibles frame comes with micro magnets allowing for simple yet secure attachment of the detachable sunglass lenses.

LIGHT BROTH SOUP.

This practical and convenient range also includes a slim pouch which offers safe protection when not in use. SOMETIMES THINGS JUST CLICK. To see the full Convertibles range for men and women, visit alanburrow.com.au. Click on Frames and then Optiqueline or scan the QR code below.

REPLACE COFFEE WITH DANDELION TEA, OR ONE EVENING MEAL A WEEK WITH A CLEAR

o a whole day of green veggie juices or smoothies (add protein in the form of almonds or a protein powder.) Or, once a month for three days use the following guide: DAY 1 Each day: first thing in the morning drink: ½ a lemon juiced in warm water. Breakfast Veggie juice or smoothie. Optional avocado and hummus on rice cakes with lemon juice and pepper. Lunch Green salad or steamed Asian greens with chicken or fish. Dinner Light vegetable soup. DAY 2 Each day: first thing in the morning drink: ½ a lemon juiced in warm water. Breakfast Veggie juice or smoothie. Optional avocado and hummus on rice cakes with lemon juice and pepper Lunch Salad Nicoise. Dinner Beetroot soup. DAY 3 Each day: first thing in the morning drink: ½ a lemon juiced in warm water. Breakfast Veggie Juice or smoothie. Optional avocado and hummus on rice cakes with lemon juice and pepper. Lunch Quinoa Tabouli sprinkled with sunflower and pepita seeds. Dinner Clear broth soup with Asian greens, peas, celery, beans, spinach, lemon juice, turmeric, parsley and ginger. Add cooked kidney or aduzki beans if desired.

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It is important that you check with your help eye sight, weight stabilisation, and doctor before undertaking any detox the alleviation of flat/depressive tendenprogram. cies and mood swings. When you are If you prefer a program where you are “cleaner” on the inside – everything is guided and supported, a Six Day Yoga easier, lighter and more joyful. This time Intensive is happening at my Moonee of year is filled with new possibilities and Shopping Centre Studio. It runs from opportunities, so when you are clean and Sunday 26th October to Friday 31st clear you will be flexible and see them October and includes with ease. • 6 - 8 yoga classes Be aware that everyone • All breakfasts will react differently to d • Daily meal plan a cleanse/detox – you oi av , If possible , rs with yummy seamay experience lle ki in any pa dy bo ur sonal recipes headaches, stomach yo to but listen st be is t • Practical tools for pains, body odour, ha w and do ry ve so al is a Mind, Body and It overly emou. yo for e and Lifestyle Detox tional releases and beneficial to mov sh flu • Food as Medicine other uncomfortexercise to help out toxins.” tips to help with a able symptoms. This swift, non-toxic detox is your body releasing • Guided relaxation/ toxins and will pass. Go meditation with it. Your body is purging. • Daily support from your teacher If possible, avoid any painkillers, (me!) but listen to your body and do what Go to www.yogafortheseasons. is best for you. It is also very beneficial com.au for more information. (Places are to move and exercise to help flush out limited, so booking is essential). toxins. Get to yoga, a gym session or Throughout spring what will aid your even a walk– especially when you don’t detox and liver and gallbladder (the focus feel like it, as at this time the body needs organs for this season) are sour tasting help to shift the toxins and exercise will foods like lemon juice and good qualdo this. Remember to hydrate, sleep well ity vinegars. Eat leafy greens. Reduce or and tell your friends and family that you cut out saturated fats, poor quality oils, love them, but that you may be grumpy refined foods and alcohol. for a few days! Cleansing can lead to the removal of Happy detoxing! health problems, stress related conditions Lisa Telford. and tension, giving a glow to your skin, www.yogafortheseasons.com.au

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Your pet should

COFFS Physiotherapy & BAck care

not endure it Consider whether your pet has recently experienced dramatic weight changes, reduced activity levels, shown signs of coughing or changes in breathing effort, is drinking more water than usual, having difficulty seeing or hearing or has shown difficulty when getting up or walking.

erhaps you have also noticed your If a health problem is detected early, we can pet’s breath starting to smell really act more quickly and improve the chances bad or felt some lumps on your pet. of success of a specific treatment. This way, Advances in veterinary medicine we can prolong a pleasant life for our four and pet nutrition mean pets are living longer, legged companions. Regular exams are vital healthier lives. Our friendly and caring vets at to assess your pet’s health. In addition, there the Blue & White Veterinary Clinic aim to give may be various medical tests (blood tests, urine every one of our patients the best analysis, X-rays, easily conducted in quality and quantity of life our practice) that help establish possible. a clean bill of health. Old age itself is not At the Blue & White Some of the s on a disease, but we are Veterinary Clinic, iti medical cond d an aware that certain vets and staff, have ts that can affect ca ey dn diseases can be age developed a health ki dogs, such as e, related. Some of the program specifically and heart diseas one rm ho d an medical conditions for older pets. If you es diabet start n te of , es nc that can affect cats have a pet 7 years or la imba tween and dogs, such as older please do not to show signs be ” 7-11 years of age. kidney and heart hesitate to contact our disease, diabetes and clinic and arrange for an hormone imbalances, often appointment to specifically start to show signs between discuss the needs of your older 7-11 years of age. In response to this, pet and address your concerns. we believe it is important to begin monitoring The benefits of a Senior Health Program older cats and dogs for these conditions from includes early detection of health problems seven years old (around 49 human years), or permitting rapid intervention and a better earlier if they are at risk from other factors such treatment plan. as breed and prior health problems. Many of the signs of aging we take for We encourage you to visit the Blue & White granted may, in fact, be completely reversable Veterinary Clinic twice a year with older pets. or readily treated.

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Shifting the focus from treating arthritis of the knee to preventing it.

Knee osteoarthritis Common Hand Injuries or twenty years now I have helped people take their first steps after surgery following a Total Knee Joint replacement (TKR), direct them through those tentative early days until confident and independent to return home, then follow through rehab until final discharge. Working together, we have returned them walking the golf course, back in their kayaks, even a couple have gone on to walk the Inca Trail in Peru. As good as results that we get however, I would love to see the numbers start declining - for the main reason being that less people actually need the TKR. It is well documented that exercise can decrease pain associated with osteoarthritis (O-A) of the knee. As with everything in medicine now, however, the focus is shifting towards prevention. Dr Jones (Professor of Rheumatology & Epidemiology, Tasmania) has been looking into just that, and one of the key points from his research has been on exercise quantity and its effects. Walking 10,000 steps per day is currently recommended for heart health; however, Dr Jones has evidence that if you have a structurally abnormal knee joint [e.g arthritis on MRI] then you could be speeding up the damage. He states, “There is no doubt that

(specific) exercise helps pain in osteoarthritis. So I see physiotherapists as being key for exercise prescriptions, and in light of our recent work into what walking does to structure, they can modify the exercise prescription.” There are times when the patient may be considered ‘’too young’’ to have a TKR yet, or unable to undertake the surgery. Our clinic also specialises in the fitting of knee braces be they for patella-femoral pain, ligamentous instability, or uni-compartmental (one-sided) O-A of the knee. We are the registered fitter and supplier of the latest technology in unloading knee braces for O-A on the MNC, giving back their quality of life by being able to walk again painfree. But let’s shift the focus back on prevention. Evidence demonstrates that weakness around the hip predisposes women to early medial (inside) uni-compartmental O-A of the knee. Do you know someone who is bow-legged or knock-kneed? (Often times teenage females or in their 30s). Someone who swings their pelvis when walking? Poor stance and walking patterns can set-up for early degeneration, but a trained eye can pick out the source of weakness, target this and avoid the longer term damage. Call us for more information.

coffs coast focus 53

focusinterview.

meet a

LOCAL grom

Photo courtesy of ST Images

ENERGY AEROBIC GROUP

CHARLI PEPLOW

National Champions

Photo courtesy of Reg McGuigan

Introducing the 2014 FISAF Aerobic National Champions, CASS Agents from CASS Energy Aerobic Group.

his Cadet International Trio consists of three Coffs Harbour Year 6 students, namely Claudia Baff, Brooklyn Leonard and Paris Warncken. The three have been competing as singles in the single individual category in Sport Aerobics for the last six years and have won many state and national titles between them. Three years ago their coach, Cassie Scully, decided to harness their talent and place them in a trio as well, which has resulted in them winning the National Championships for the last three successive years. In 2012 they won their first National Title in the Mini Novice division. In 2013 they moved up to the Cadet International Trio Category and won the National Title and in doing so, qualified to represent Australia in Serbia. This year they won the National Title for the third successive year and they qualified to represent Australia in Prague. However, due to the massive costs associated with sending a team overseas to compete, the team did not accept the position on the Australian Team. 2015 will be the trio's last year competing in the Cadet Category, after which they will be required to move up to the Junior Category.

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Therefore CASS Energy, their family and friends want to give them the opportunity to represent Australia and a chance to win a world medal at the 2015 FISAF World Championships in Martinique, West Indies. The 2015 fundraising drive has already commenced, with Intregity New Homes and Geoff King Motors on board as sponsors, as well as many local businesses offering to place fundraising money boxes in their reception. Nana Glen General Store and Bottle O, Coramba General Store, Mass Nutrition and Caba's Drapery are the businesses that have money boxes at their counters ... We are very grateful for their support. If you'd like to make a donation, please donate to: “World Fundraising” at BCU, BSB: 704 328, ACC: 236 701. Fundraising events include a trivia night, and we are looking for donations of prizes. There is also a garage sale being held, and any donations are welcome. Contact details for these events are: Mel Leonard 0411 338 413. Brooklyn Leonard also qualified as a single competitor this year, and she has accepted her position to represent AU in Prague in Oct 2014.

ow old are you, and when did with your family? you first get in to surfing? No definitely not. We come from about I’m 11 and I came to Australia as far away from the sea as you can get in (from England) when I was five. England. We used to go camping a lot and My dad used to push me on waves, always headed for the ocean, so I was but I only really got into surfing stoked to be moving here. Now properly last year, when I had I couldn’t live away from the my first lesson with Lee surf! My biggest Winkler. What type of board do inspiration , What school do you you have? is Lee Winkler great go to, and do many I’ve got three boards; because he is a r of your mates from my first board was from surfer and teache n fu school surf? Madness in Woolgoolga, and really good .” I’m in Year 5 at Korora which I still love. For my to be around Public School. I have a few birthday this year I had friends who surf at school, a board made by Shaun in particular Marshal, Joey and Cansdell, who is another of my Ethan, who are all part of Coffs favourite surfers and then recently Boardriders too. I got a Dhd Eager Beaver, which is one Who is your biggest inspiration? Who is of Mick Fanning’s signature boards. I can’t your favourite surfer? decide which is my favourite; it depends on the My biggest inspiration is Lee Winkler, because conditions. he is a great surfer and teacher and really good How often do you get out in to the surf? fun to be around. My favourite surfer is Mick My mum takes me out most mornings Fanning. He’s an awesome surfer but like Lee, before school and my dad weekends and most always has time for other people. I’ve been afternoons if I haven’t got anything else on. reading his book and only just realised that What are you favourite places to surf he used to live and surf in Coffs when he was locally? a kid. Like me, he also played rep soccer, but Parky’s is my favourite, but I also like surfing became more important. Macauleys and Diggers but most of all, Are you from a surfing family? What are wherever the waves are good. your first memories of being in the ocean Thanks Charlie.

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The RADICAL ABDOMINOPLASTY OPERATION ‘Tummy TUCK’

he gradual increase in girth in pregnancy and in weight gain, causes tissue-expansion and stretching.

When the above situation is reversed,ie. after delivery of a baby or weight loss, there are different types of reversal in the various tissues affected. Muscles do best and can almost recover completely. The two large columns of muscles in the anterior abdominal wall, the right and left Rectus Abdominus muscles, which given great strength to the anterior abdominal wall as well as the back , are such examples. The fascia covering these muscles, a strong sleeve around the muscles and fused ( attached ) in the midline, stretch up to a point before further stretch causes irreversible damage. When the muscle recovers, the fascia

does not and this results in a week and stretched midline.

fusion, with the muscles back together

Instead a diffuse midline keeping the muscles together, the central stretched ellipse of fascia causes the muscles to be separated, weakening the anterior abdominal wall as well as the back.

strength and contour.

This” divarication or diastasis” of the muscles is equivalent to a midline hernia and causes significant weakening of the anterior abdominal wall, and protrusion of the abdominal contents, especially in the standing position.

anaesthesia and hospitalisation as well

The correction The radical abdominoplasty procedure described by Dr. Ivor Pitanguy, the doyen of Brazilian plastic-surgery, is an excellent operation which fixes this problem very well.

use in the correction of recurrent

The surgery results in the reestablishment of the central fascial

synthetic mesh grafts with its many

in the midline and with recovery of A bonus of this operation is the removal of a good amount of skin and fat from the anterior abdominal wall. The surgery is major, needing general as time for recovery, but the excellent resolution of the problem makes it all worthwhile. Recurrent abdominal wall hernias. An extension of this technique is the abdominal wall hernias, resulting from multiple previous operations and attempted hernia repairs. A very significant factor in this type of repair is the avoidance of the use of attendant problems.

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Advertorial

Professor A b r a h a m A/Professor Abraham is a practicing colorectal

and general surgeon and an endoscopist at the Coffs Colorectal and Capsule Endoscopy Centre located at Southern Cross Medical Specialists - with admitting and operating rights at Baringa Private Hospital and the Coffs Harbour Health Campus.

is main areas of interest are colorectal cancer surgery, Fast Track Colorectal Surgery (Enhanced Recovery After Surgery) Programs, day only gall bladder and hernia procedures, sphincter preserving surgery and minimal use of stomas (whether temporary or permanent) and capsule endoscopy. He is also proficient in procedures for anorectal conditions such as the Anal Fistula Plug and Botox injections for anal fissures. He runs a Biofeedback program in collaboration with specially trained Registered Nurses for the treatment of bowel dysfunctions such as faecal incontinence and obstructed defecation. What is biofeedback? It is a program designed to help patients improve their bowel function. It helps people re-establish bowel control either by improving continence and preventing leaks or soiling accidents OR by teaching people with constipation, obstruction or haemorrhoids how to evacuate the bowel more easily, efficiently, and completely. What does it involve? Before starting the program the patient will have an initial assessment performed. This will involve a number of questionnaires to determine their current level of bowel function and may also involve a manometry test. Manometry testing is a pressure test and looks at the resting pressure and squeezing ability of the sealing valves at the end of the rectum. This test involves a small soft rubber probe being inserted into the back passage. It is not painful and it gives very valuable information. This is supplemented by an ultrasound examination to assess the integrity of the sphincter complex which is performed during the same visit. In all the Coffs Continence Clinic provides the most comprehensive service of its kind between Newcastle and the Gold Coast. Professor Ned Abraham is the Co-ordinator of Surgical Teaching at the Coffs Harbour Campus of the Faculty of

56 coffs coast focus.

Medicine, University of New South Wales. In 2009, he became the first person to ever be promoted to the level of Associate Professor in the ten year history of the Rural Clinical School of the Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales. He has been heavily involved in the provision of cancer treatment in first He became the the Coffs Clarence Area and was be er person to ev quoted in the NSW Parliament. level of ot prom ed to the r in He is also a member of the Coffs so es of Associate Pr Clarence Clinical Council that y of the or st hi ar the ten ye was established as part of the hool of Rural Clinical Sc icine, recommendations of the Garling ed Royal College of Surgeons of England the Faculty of M South Report. ew N through a nomination by its President. University of Professor Abraham graduated He has published widely in peer Wales .” with Honours in 1986. He reviewed journals including British completed his internship and resident Journal of Surgery, Surgery, Disease of medical officer years in Tasmania and Colon & Rectum and ANZ Journal of Surgery. Darwin. He has since obtained the Degrees of He is on the Editorial Boards of the World Journal a Master of Medicine and a Doctor of Philosophy in of Gastrointestinal Surgery and The World Journal of Surgery from the University of Sydney. His research Gastrointestinal Oncology and is a reviewer for the ANZ interests have covered a very wide range of medical Journal of Surgery. He has been an invited guest speaker and surgical conditions including evidence based surgery, and has chaired sessions at national and international the link between smoking and the aetiology of ulcerative meetings including the Second, Third, and Fifth World colitis, laparoscopic and fast track colorectal surgery, general Cancer Congresses in China (2009) and Singapore (2010), surgery, endolumenal AAA repair and the methodology the Colorectal Surgical Society of Australia & New Zealand of meta-analysis of randomised trials and nonrandomised (2010) and to present and chair sessions at international comparative studies. conferences in Croatia and Texas. A/Professor Abraham is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian He has seen active service in Bougainville as Captain with College of Surgeons and a member of its Colorectal the Peace Keeping Force with the Australian Army Reserve. Section. He trained at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney A/Prof Abraham’s Rooms: then worked as the Surgical Superintendent of that hospital Southern Cross Medical Specialists, for three years attached to its Colorectal Unit. Suite 2, Ground Floor Specialist Medical Centre, He also spent two years as the Colorectal Surgical Society 343 Pacific Highway, of Australia & New Zealands clinical research fellow at the Coffs Harbour. Surgical Outcomes Research Centre of the University of 6651 8877 Sydney. In 2004, he was awarded the Fellowship of the

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focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

JULIE MCANALLY KNOCKOUT PROPERTY MARKETING

checklists to ensure your property will be presented at its best and discuss areas that require attention. I will ve lie be recommend trades ’t I couldn I t ha w ok to I to attend to any it! So g tin ke ar m t ou maintenance issues, as knew ab and I ss ne si bu l al well as a long list of in sm ng my lli se to it d ie pl other services that may ap bingo properties and be helpful to you, such .” amazing results as de-cluttering services and property styling. houses for profit, I found You have also written people (strangers) would an eBook on “How to often break down in tears sell a house using knockout asking for my help to get their marketing ideas”. How did this houses sold. They would describe their begin? dire situation and what the consequences After encountering difficulties selling a may be if they didn’t sell their property new development of mine, I began searching soon. I helped many people achieve a great the internet for alternative property marketing sale result when traditional marketing had failed strategies. I spent weeks reading every book them. Seeing this positive impact on people’s I could relating to selling houses, reading lives is what inspired me to start Knockout hundreds of real estate blogs and watching days Property Marketing this year. We’ve recently of real estate agent conferences on YouTube, launched a new website, and I’m looking only to fi nd that nobody had developed any forward to helping local, regional and interstate innovative marketing strategies for selling real sellers to sell their property with the best possible estate. I couldn’t believe it! So I took what I result by implementing the marketing strategies knew about marketing in small business and I recommend. I applied it to selling my properties and bingo One of the key products you offer clients is - amazing results. I could have kept what I an in home consultation. What might this discovered to myself, but I decided to write the involve? eBook and share my experiences to help others. For most people, selling a house is an What do you believe are the top three tips overwhelming experience. But there’s no need for selling a property quickly and for a to go it alone, get stressed out, or settle for less. higher price? I’m here to help you prepare your house for a Price, Presentation and Marketing Strategy quick sale at top dollar. I pay attention to all the are the three critical factors to selling a property details for you and tell you what to do to get the quickly for the highest price. A property has its best possible result. Real estate agents may not highest perceived value by buyers in the first few always tell you what areas of your property need weeks, so selling in the first 30 days is when you improvement, for fear of offending you or losing should achieve your best sale price. Property is your listing. Often you need an impartial third very price sensitive, so adjust your price early party to point out things in your home that will if you are not getting any interest. Top dollar result in low or no offers. I view your property requires attention to every detail, so presentation through a buyer’s eyes and show you “tough is the second key factor. A marketing strategy is love” in order for you to achieve the best sale the third key element and more often than not outcome. I’ll help you focus your attention on is overlooked. Buyers know that serious sellers the areas that can take your property from drab spend time and effort on a proper marketing to fab. campaign. My marketing strategies will create a With my in-home consultation service I’ll swell of market energy around your property and walk through your home using my extensive

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ulie, you are what most people would call “obsessed with property”. Tell us how you came to be so? My father started telling me from the age of 15, when I started full-time work, not to waste my money on overseas holidays, because “they are like a bag of fireworks and you’ve got nothing to show for them when they are finished”. He said, “Buy real estate instead, and make money”. I then worked two full-time jobs, day and night, to build my first house at age 19, which I sold on completion for a tidy profit. I was hooked from that day on. You’ve spent many years investing in the property market. What changes have you seen? Since buying my first investment property 27 years ago, the most significant change for me has been the internet. Property websites like realestate.com.au, Google earth/maps and property reporting websites like RP data enables me to buy property interstate, often sight unseen. Google earth allows me to “virtually” cruise around the neighbourhood checking out the amenities, proximity to public transport, the quality of housing etc. It’s been a truly significant change for the industry and for buyers and sellers alike. Your new business, Knockout Property Marketing, aims to provide people selling a property with marketing strategies that may help to sell it faster and for a better result. What inspired you to start this venture? People always asked what I did for a living and when I mentioned, amongst other things, that I am a property investor and I buy and sell

have buyers queuing to inspect it. The Coffs Coast, like many coastal areas, has experienced significant growth in the property market over the past decade or more. Do you believe this trend will continue? Are there any other towns or cities that you believe are great property picks at current? I believe the Coffs Harbour property market has remained fairly static for the past decade. It has been my observations and experience of late that we are seeing some long overdue price growth, and I am hopeful that it will be sustained and continue to rise. I have personally had stellar results with my inner city Brisbane properties with continual growth year in and year out, regardless of what the rest of the property market is doing. I will continue to invest within a 2 km radius of Brisbane’s CBD. That’s my hot tip! How does your role as a property marketer fit with the real estate agents’ role? My service is complementary to a real estate agent; in fact, I believe the real estate industry will love my services when they list a property which has undergone my Knockout transformation. I also teach vendors to be engaged and active with their property listing and work together with their real estate agent to achieve the best sale result. So it’s a very collaborative approach between all parties: the vendor, the agent and myself. What is your tip for anyone looking to buy or sell a property? Research is key whether buying or selling; however, you don’t have to make it rocket science - especially when buying. So many people get caught up in trying to time the market that they end up overanalysing, it gets too hard and often they end up not buying anything. Real estate is an amazing vehicle to create wealth and providing you are buying for the medium to long term, you really can’t go wrong. When it comes to selling, put the effort into presenting your property like a “show home”. If you have to beg for or borrow the money in order to do this, just do it. Do whatever it takes! You will be rewarded financially for your efforts. Thanks Julie. coffs coast focus 57

focuseditorial.

focusinterview.

BY THE SINGS IN PERFECT HARMONY

Skinner Motors

The very first Opera by the Ocean community festival, a musical and entertainment masterpiece, was recently held at Coffs Harbour. The brand new cultural festival is the brainchild of

Council Galleries Curator/ Director, Dr Leigh Summers.

he inaugural “Opera by the and fun at North Sapphire Beach Park,” said Dr Ocean” event culminated Summers. perfectly with the twilight family For North Sapphire Beach community, the picnic event at North Sapphire festival was all about celebrating the “Water Beach community. The wider Gum – release 1” phase of the project, which festival was presented by Coffs is now officially available to the public. 43 lots Harbour City Council and ran from Thursday were created as part of the latest stage of the 11 to Sunday 14, starting with an opera movie project, with only nine remaining. This follows night at the Gallery and 20 performances the successful release of the beach front lots, across the city spread over four days. of which only one remains. The concluding event was a North Sapphire Beach is all highly memorable family fun about living the rewarding as w al inspired afternoon, held in iv coastal lifestyle for residents st fe The g lin ril th y the huge grassed Amphiof the newly established ul tr a by the ra pe O . ce theatre in front of the and growing family comen ri expe some of d te ac tr at Beachstone Café. Plenty munity. It features over an ce O t voices of delicious food and 38 hectares of serene, Australia’s fines for a to Coffs Harbour ational drink was on offer, with spacious parkland and a ir world class, insp stival the Coffs SLSC (Surf network of cycle paths fe and unexpected Life Saving Club) offering and boardwalks that lead experience.” mouth-watering sausages down to the beach. Next sizzle. Other families brought to the beach is an impressive their own picnics and simply playground for the kids, with the pitched up and enjoyed the night’s neighbouring Beachstone Café. This festivities. is in addition of the adjacent park used to Entertainment was on hand to keep host community gatherings, celebrations and both adults and children amused throughoutdoor fitness training sessions – all contributout the evening, with kids’ entertainer Mr ing to an engaging community feel. Smiley and powerful performances from Sam There is already so much on offer and yet so Cobcroft and her pianist husband Vincent much more to look forward to, with the site Parmenter, accompanied by an amazing choir. under continued development. Having come from across the region, the choir For anyone considering a move to the new also performed with the Sydney Independent North Sapphire Beach site, not only is it located Opera Company, who brought a full cast and on the coastline, a good enough reason in orchestra in addition to outstanding costumes itself to live there, but it is also ideally located and scenery. within 10 minutes’ drive of the Coffs Harbour “The festival was a truly thrilling experience. city. Opera by the Ocean attracted some of AustraTo find out more about this picturesque, lia's finest voices to Coffs Harbour for a world family oriented beachside community, there class, inspirational and unexpected festival are two display homes available for viewing via experience. What made this such a wonderG.J. Gardner and Adenbrook Homes. Alternaful community festival is the fact that so many tively, all the community details are accessible performances were free or open-air happenon the Walker Corporation website at: northings – such as the family picnic performance sapphirebeach.com.au

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Hyundai AND THE SKINNER MOTORS TEAM!

ow, another Rally handled a WRC track. done and dusted! It What do you think an event like this was hard to miss means to Coffs Coast and how important our local Hyundai is it that we showcase internationally team during the recognised events in our region? event! What We cannot underestimate the value to a was the involvement from the region like the Coffs Coast. People travel Skinner team? from all over the globe or watch Hyundai Motor Company their TVs from all over the so Australia was the vehicle world. The more exposure al d ul co You sponsor of the Rally our area receives, the more take a hot lap in SR or 0 i3 , Australia event and likely people will visit our SR er st lo a Ve nd the as the local Hyundai area and enjoy what we Accent SR arou age, an dealer, we had the have to offer. There are Super Special St to see opportunity to display many places people can awesome chance ndai yu how good the H our range of Hyundai choose for a holiday, and d a WRC vehicles handle models at the Fan Zone this event puts the Coffs track ...” at the Stadium and also at Coast front of mind. the Hyundai Super Special Aussie driver Chris “Atko” Stage. Atkinson drove for Hyundai The display site at Fanzone at the - how did he place? What was a stadium showcased our family range – ix35, standout moment for your team? Santa Fe, i20 and i30. We also had cars at the Hayden Paddon (#20 Hyundai i20 WRC, Hyundai Super Special Stage – Accent, Elantra co-driver John Kennard) was the top finishing and i40. Hyundai i20 WRC driver, securing a strong You couldn’t have gone past the sixth position. Thierry Neuville (#7 Hyundai i20 Activation Display - what opportunity did WRC, co-driver Nicolas Gilsoul) ended the rally the display offer to spectators? in seventh, with local hero Chris Atkinson (#8 Hyundai had the SR range on display, hot Hyundai i20 WRC, co-driver Stephane Peyot) laps in Veloster, i30 and Accent, an interactive rounding out the top ten. TV racing game for spectators to test their http://motorsport.hyundai.com/en/news/ skills, a rally Veloster and the all important view/486 2014 WRC i20 Rally Car. You could also take The standout moment for our team was a hot lap in a Veloster SR, i30 SR or Accent SR having a manufacturer to cheer on in the form around the Super Special Stage, an awesome of Hyundai Motorsport and also cheering on chance to see how good the Hyundai vehicles an Aussie driving one of our i20s. Go Aussies!

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WHOLLY ORGANIC Broadway smash hit Hairspray Coffs Harbour Musical Comedy Company is delighted to present the Broadway smash hit Hairspray, directed by Lisa Jonas with musical direction by Maureen Burgess and Tim Egan and choreography by Kate Sevenoaks. Running throughout November, Hairspray is based on the movie of the same name and is a fabulous outing for the whole family. Hairspray will sweep you away to 1960’s Baltimore, where the ‘50s are out - and change is in the air! Loveable plus-size heroine, Tracy Turnblad, has a passion for dancing, and wins a spot on the local TV dance program, The Corny Collins Show. Overnight, she finds herself transformed from outsider to teen celebrity. Can a larger-than-life teenager vanquish the program’s reigning princess, integrate the racially-segregated television show, and find true love (singing and dancing all the while, of course!) without mussing her hair? Featuring some of Coffs Harbour’s most talented performers, Hairspray will be showing at the Jetty Memorial Theatre from Friday November 7 to Sunday November 30. Tickets and more information are now available from the JMT Box Office 6652 8088 or online at: www.jettytheatre.com/hairspray Photo caption: Lead roles L to R: Philip Ranieri as Link Larkin; Katie Goddard as Tracy Turnblad; Leah Tidey as Penny Pingleton and Kaiyai Doenau as Seaweed.

Is it true even your thongs are eco-friendly and fairtrade? Yes, it is - and they are fabulous! Etiko Fairtrade “Thongs for Good” are made from natural and recycled rubber and no evil PVC. There are four different colours to choose from, each supporting a partner charity. Black supports the Orangutan Project, White supports Save the Children, Blue supports Surfrider Foundation Australia and Green supports the Wilderness Society. Come and try a pair and change the world you walk on! We hear you’ve also got a gorgeous range of greeting cards and stationery in store? We have the most fabulous enviro-friendly range of Earth Greetings cards, mini gift cards, journals, writing sets, calendars, bamboo pens and even eco-friendly highlighters. Earth Greetings use paper made from 100% post-consumer waste that is not chlorine bleached, vegetable based inks for printing, which means no nasty chemicals and are carbon neutral. Aside from all that, they are the MOST beautiful cards and who needs email when you can send a good old fashioned letter or card! We know you have ladies clothing, but tell us about your men’s clothing ... Yes, we have beautiful organic cotton and bamboo tees and long sleeve tees for the guys, plus bamboo underwear and socks. We can’t wait for our new summer arrivals coming very soon from Sinerji, which will feature a men’s range of shorts, tees and shirts. Our Vege Threads summer range will also be arriving in the next month, and these are fabulous organic cotton basics for ladies and men. We’re super pleased to announce that we will have Vege Kids arriving soon too, a gorgeous organic cotton range for babies and kids to three years of age. Ethical and sustainable fashion for the conscious consumer. Wholly Organic – look good naturally!

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SAM WARDMAN

60 coffs coast focus focus.

focusinterview.

C o r n e r P o s t

C o n s u l t i n g

Sam Wardman, CornerPost Consulting is a proud member of the FOCUS family and each month she brings us her Business Minds column ... This month we've turned the tables, and it's all about Sam and her amazing career.

our father is a lawyer; is this why you wound up working in law firms in Sydney? You also spent time in New York; was this in law, and what was it like in the Big Apple for a true blue local girl? I basically grew up in the hallways of Mbt Lawyers. I had a lot of fun visiting Dad’s office as a kid and loved raiding their extensive stationery supply! I guess this is how I fell into law firms. I actually worked at Mbt Lawyers for a few years out of school doing reception and admin, so I got the feel for it pretty young. It wasn’t until I made the move to Sydney that I really cemented a career in legal. I worked for five years at Gadens Lawyers and Middletons Lawyers combined, before returning to Coffs for a change of pace and roles. I took the position as group marketing manager for the C.ex Group and remained there for the best of three years, before an opportunity to live in New York presented. I had a working visa, but at the time - post GFC - it was difficult to get work, so I didn’t end up working whilst I was there. New York truly is a life-changing experience, one that was challenging in many respects at the time, but on the flip side, turned out to be a pivotal point not only in my life, but my career. Plus, for the lovers of Sex in the City, the fashion and shoes were simply amazing! You're known in our region as a Guru Marketer… why was CornerPost Marketing born? The idea of my own marketing business was born on the rooftop of my apartment in Manhattan, New York, with two great friends, Caroline and Ash. Caroline and I had previously worked together in Sydney and at the time wanted to set up our own boutique agencies, so the conceptualisation began over many glasses of champagne, with Manhattan’s cityscape inspiring us. They say it’s the city where dreams are made! When I returned to Australia, I had the dream, but needed the right push to do it. It wasn’t until I had a conversation with my previous boss, John Rafferty, that the dream became a reality. Through his encouragement and my parents enduring support, CornerPost began. The name literally comes from the foundation of a fence, a crucial structure that supports the architecture around it. I believe marketing aligns with this foundational notion of any successful business, and it was my vision to create a regional-based marketing agency with soul, authenticity and genuine care for our clients and the communities they operate in.

How have you evolved your business in the past three years, and how have your customers influenced this growth? We recently re-branded CornerPost Marketing as CornerPost Consulting, which was ultimately a decision driven through client needs. Our client base is quite diverse, ranging from small to medium business, to organisations with $15m+ turnover. The spread of marketing services required for each client is often varied, including marketing planning and management, design services (graphics or web), sales and business development mentoring, event management and social media marketing. Many had experienced unsatisfactory service from other suppliers, so we felt it was important to provide these services in-house, allowing for a seamless service experience and better outcomes for their business. In our work within the club industry, customer service is a defining point between success and poor performance. It’s vital when we implement a strategic marketing plan that the customer service is spot on, otherwise the opportunity is missed and marketing dollars are wasted. From this awareness, we developed the “Fresh + Famous” celebrity service training program, which is being rolled out to several clubs in NSW as we speak. We can’t deliver the great results without a culture of customer service excellence, with each and every customer being delivered celebrity-style service. You're in the business of growing businesses. How important is listening to your clients’ business requirements and building from there? It’s incredibly important to not only listen to our clients, but to understand every facet of their business: where the weaknesses are and where the opportunities can be maximised. It’s also very important to understand the direction of the business and not be afraid to challenge the status quo. We believe that delivering a holistic approach to marketing is the best way to achieve positive and sustainable results. Our business growth has been driven by our clients’ needs, and we want to be the trusted advisors they call when they need direction on anything, no matter how trivial. This philosophy is at the heart of CornerPost. This may seem quite 101, but why is customer service crucial? Customer service - like marketing, and your product or service - is absolutely paramount to achieving success. Your service team is the face of the business when it comes to keeping customers happy. Without clear expectations

and a customer service philosophy, you cannot Weddings and at times it’s a hive of activity, create the right culture or atmosphere to deliver bursting with energy between us all. The consistently great service. It’s the one area of majority of the team work out of this office and the business that is often unmanaged, where other home-based offices. We like to offer a employees are mistakenly expected to know blended approach instead of being chained to how to deliver good service in the way you a desk. The CornerPost Team includes myself require them to, and that’s a big problem. Why (Sam Wardman), Joanne Higgs, Lisa Daley, not invest in creating a customer service culture Lauren Fraser and Amanda Elks. We also have which underpins everything you do in your web developers and other designers working business? Trust me. If you do this, the business remotely, plus a great team of collaborators too. will not only shine, but your customers will In your personal time you're also studying keep coming back, spending more, and may interior design. How do you hope to even be your biggest advocates in terms implement this skill into your business to of positive word of mouth! benefit your clients? Social media, in I’ve always had a passion for particular online interiors, which probably reviews, can have stemmed from my ly ib ed cr in It's t only a positive, but mother’s love of it important to no s but to nt ie also a negative and my earlier career cl r ou to n liste y facet of impact on your working for home understand ever re the he business. Can furnishing retailers. I their business: w d where an you please began studying as a weaknesses are es can be expand on personal endeavour the opportuniti also very maximised. It’s this? but as it evolved, e th nd ta ders important to un siness and Online review my clients began to bu direction of the allenge the platforms have ask for guidance with ch not be afraid to fundamentally their offi ce, reception or ” status quo. changed the nature restaurant areas. Perhaps and scope of consumer it will become part of the buying behaviour. Not only CornerPost fold in the future, but can you review any business for now I’m enjoying the creativity online, through multiple platforms (like change. Trip Advisor, Facebook, etc.) but your What is the number one thing people get review is published worldwide and can wrong when thinking about marketing influence other peoples’ purchase decisions. their business, and if you had once piece This evolution has been particularly tumultuous of advice to offer business owners, what for the tourism and hospitality industries. would it be? Reviewer sites, like Trip Advisor, can make or Plan, plan, plan. Know where you want to break a business if it receives too many bad go, because without a vision or goal, how can reviews, and although the content of these you possibly achieve it? reviews is in many cases legitimate, in others Your marketing plan doesn’t need to be a it can be false and fraudulent, and these ones 20 page document - just a short mind map or do the most damage. How does a business in timeline of essentially the what, when, how, this predicament lessen the impact? My advice why and who. would be to always respond to each review What's the best thing about being part of with a consistent and level-headed approach the FOCUS family? to the response. Often the way in which a I’ve loved FOCUS from the day I first saw a business has handled a bad review is what magazine in Port Macquarie, six or seven years carries more weight in the reader’s mind. You ago. I thought, “Why don’t we [Coffs] have have the power to reinforce your reputation this quality magazine?” So I was super excited and understand the reviewer’s point of view, when I heard the Coffs Coast was getting its and possibly rectify the problem. very own issue! You've recently moved into your brand The FOCUS team are real people, and that’s new workspace at the Jetty. Tell us about it what counts. I’m so proud to be involved ... and who makes up your team? with a publication that creates relationships Yes, the new space is great: very open, full and connections within the community, and of light and with great views over the Jetty. showcases the many interesting people and We share the space with North Coast Luxury personalities this beautiful town has to offer.

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coffs coast focus

focus_business.

Vice President Woolgoolga Chamber Commerce - Tegan Ewart

focustourism.

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

UPDATE

tegan ewart WHERE HAS THIS YEAR GONE? FOR LOTS OF PEOPLE (THE WOOLGOOLGA AND NORTHERN BEACHES CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INCLUDED) IT’S BEEN A VERY BUSY YEAR! IT’S TIME TO START PLANNING HOW WE’RE GOING TO BE SPENDING OUR LONG SUNNY DAYS. s you would know from previous to keep their cool, there are both estuary and columns, Woopi has this comopen water options which give unrivalled pletely covered! From relaxing on views of our coast and waterways and also the beach or in a café to getting open up some very good fishing opportuniyour adventure on, we’ve got you covered. ties. Drop by Skee Kayak Centre for the best So grab your nearest and dearest and make advice. They can also sort you out with a your way to Woolgoolga for some hot Stand Up Paddle board (SUP) to enjoy a wave weather fun! on a right hand point break or to simply float Have you noticed how many cars in and up the creek. around Woolgoolga are jammed packed with If you’d like to take a leisurely stroll or bikes, boards, kayaks, SUPs and anything work up a sweat with a cross-country run, else that gives a healthy thrill? there’s a great scenic loop which Woolgoolga is perfectly situhugs the edge of Woopi ated as a launching point lake. The bush is native for any adventure you and lush and the trail ng For those wishi have in mind for the is well maintained. to paddle in the , warmer weather, Woolgoolga and the eir cool water to keep th tuary and the options are Northern Beaches there are both es tions wide and diverse. features some of op and open water alled The area has more the best sections of riv un which give d an t as than its share of the Coffs Coastal co r ou of views so al d an s good surf, and the Walk. Take in the ay w er wat very good Solitary Islands Surf stunning views from open up some ities.” School can get you up the headland and fishing opportun and going on the local head north or south on uncrowded waves. an all day adventure of If pedalling in the sunshine coastal discovery. If you want is more your thing, it is a wondera walk or run in the forest, then ful place to ride bikes. Whether it is a ride the waterfall walk will leave you feeling like around town with the family or a serious you are lost in a tropical paradise. It is mostly road ride, there are many great routes. If you flat, and the dense canopy keeps things cool. prefer off-road, then the adjacent WedIf you do heat up, then you can always step ding Bells State Forest has some world class under the fresh flowing water or enjoy the mountain bike trails, ranging from the easy rock pools that collect at the top of the falls. and scenic to eye watering descents. Drop Woolgoolga truly is an outdoor paradise all by Woodsey’s Wheels for maps and trail year round and serves as the perfect starting information. point for a day, week, month, or a lifetime of For those wishing to paddle in the water adventure and exploration.

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coffs coast focus.

THE COFFS COAST, A REGION OF UNTAPPED POTENTIAL. AS WINTER DRAWS TO A CLOSE AND WE WARM UP FOR SUMMER AND PREPARE FOR A BUSY TIME OF YEAR, WE LOOK BACK AND REVIEW HOW SUCCESSFUL IT WAS AND WE PLAN WHAT WE CAN PUT IN PLACE TO IMPROVE FOR NEXT SEASON. e start to prepare for the football titles in April 2015, which has been a oncoming winter season and great windfall for Coffs. Not only will this benwhat we can do to maintain efit our tourism industry, but will filter into our and simulate business activity, local industries. Imagine how the local econfor what is traditionally a quiet time of the omy would benefit from a series of events, year. conferences or festivals spread throughout the So how do we as a community change the year to create a calendar that would rival other fact that we have a quiet season; would it not regional destinations. be better to work on attracting business to So how do we as a community get behind town all year round? So, what are you getting the various entities and organisations attracting at, I hear you ask. this type of business to the Coffs Coast? There Over the last few years we have seen a slow are various avenues in regards to this. growth in new events and conferences choosMany members of the business commuing the Coffs Coast as a destination. nity already support these events via Why is this? Is it because we are sponsorship, which goes a long starting to be more competiway in bringing these events t ea tive in regards to attracting to town and is greatly gr a ve ha We this type of business, is appreciated by us all. So foundation ts en ev it the fact that we are how can the rest of us ng gi er em of d are more accessible, with assist? and festivals an d more an three airlines now In many many ways: attracting more siness, servicing the region, through visitation conferencing bu arbour H so let’s put Coffs or is it that we have a and attendance of and back on the map great array of facilities the various events, r ou get out and show to be able to cope with conferences and festivals support.” a large variety of events to ensure these events and conferences? Whichever are viable so that they can it may be, we as a destination grow year on year and show need to continue to attract this type of other event organisers that Coffs is business to the Coffs Coast. the place to establish and grow events. For example, the return of the national Through being open and welcoming to visitouch football titles back to the Coffs Coast tors via customer service, showing tourists that in March has brought with it competitors from we are a friendly and a welcoming community. around the nation who had be housed for the It can be as simple as helping someone by week, shopped in our retail outlets, dined in giving them directions or smiling/saying hello our restaurants and pubs, as well as used a to someone walking by. variety of services during their stay. This type We have a great foundation of emerging of event is a great injection of revenue for the events and festivals and are attracting more local economy, which everyone benefits from. and more conferencing business, so let’s put As a result of holding this successful event, Coffs Harbour back on the map and get out we have been able to secure the World Touch and show our support.

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focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

QUADRANT TRAVEL AND JOURNEYS - VIETNAM I f y o u’ ve eve r w o n d e re d h ow p ro fe s si o n al ph otog raphe rs c ap t u re such fabulous ph otos in far- f lung pl aces , why not consider travelling on a small group tour to Vietnam with award-winning ph oto - j o u r n ali s t T i m B ar n sl e y , t o se e h ow it’s d o n e?

Kerry Moss TASMANIA: A WORLD APART, NOT A WORLD AWAY

Tim has recently moved back to Vietnam and during his time in Thao Dien, a district of Ho Chi Minh City on the Saigon River, Tim says he fell hopelessly in love with the Vietnamese people and spent his days documenting their daily life with his camera.

Imperial city of Hue, as well as World Heritage listed Hoi An and beautiful Dalat. You then travel on to Vung Tau on the coast and finish up in the fascinating city of HCMC, or old Saigon, where the remnants of French colonial architecture are found on every corner.

The sights, sounds and smells of the country totally captivated him, so he needed no urging when the opportunity came up to lead a small group tour to Vietnam for local company Quadrant Australia.

The tour is suited to all types of travellers who enjoy the chance to get off the beaten tourist path and meet the locals. It offers a unique opportunity to wander through bustling markets, see colourful hill tribes and visit ancient temples, with Tim on hand to help you document your travels and experiences through the camera lens, all with an eye to recording everlasting photographic memories.

Quadrant Australia’s Cultural Safari to Vietnam is perfect for travellers who wish to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture and learn about the country’s history, cuisine and its people. Covering the north in Hanoi, the tour travels to the spectacular mountain area of Sapa near the Chinese border and continues on to the ancient

asmania is small in size, yet big on experiences. It has a wonderful blend of history, architecture and wilderness, with beautiful fine food, cool climate wines and some of the freshest seafood in the country. Hobart has come of age with its contemporary art, culture and dining scene and is home to a spectacular harbour famous for fishing, sailing and the annual Sydney to Hobart race. Once a week Hobart hosts the Salamanca Markets, which are an explosion of colour and flavour showcasing local produce and modern artworks. Hobart also acts as an excellent base to explore the surrounding area, including the historic site of Port Arthur, Australia’s oldest bridge in Richmond, or a trip to Bruny Island with its abundant wildlife and stunning views. Somewhat controversial MONA, the Museum of Old and New Art, is an inspiring private collection of antiquities, modern and contemporary art housed in an architecturally designed building overlooking Hobart. Also home to the Moo Brew Brewery, the Moorilla Winery and numerous private function spaces, it had single-handedly put Hobart on the map of world class art critics. Around forty per cent of Tasmania is protected in national parks and reserves. Most of them are stunningly beautiful and within easy reach of our major cities - and all of them are safe to visit. Tasmania’s wilderness is talked about

For more information, contact the team at Quadrant in Vernon St Coffs Harbour or www. quadrantaustralia.com

throughout the world and deservedly so, as it is the home of some of the most spectacular World Heritage listed scenery on the planet! Most famous of all is Cradle Mountain, where visitors can spend a day or a month (or anywhere in between!) Experienced hikers can tackle the 65 km overland track, or day visitors can canoe, walk or fish in Australia’s deepest freshwater lake. Less well known but just as beautiful is Freycinet National Park, home to dramatic pink granite peaks, secluded bays and white sandy beaches. Perfectly located just 2½ hours from either Hobart or Launceston, two of Tasmania’s major airports. Tasmania offers excellent opportunities to see wildlife, and the Tasmanian Devil is well regarded in the state. There are many opportunities to see them either in conservation sanctuaries or in wildlife parks. Although still found in the wild, the unique little critters are shy and tend to stay away from people. Their bone-chilling screech gave them their name, when early settlers thought they sounded like devils in the night. Tasmania is affordable and accessible, with breathtaking scenery, gourmet food and award winning wines and cheese. Why not consider it for your next getaway. The team at Quadrant Australia can offer organise all your travel needs. Drop in to see them in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour. coffs coast focus 63

focusinterview.

GAVIN MORGAN • PILOT• RECENTLY LOCAL HELICOPTER PILOT GAVIN MORGAN WAS HOSTED AT MANSION HOUSE IN LONDON, WHERE HE WAS AWARDED THE PRESTIGIOUS MASTER AIR PILOT CERTIFICATE FOR HIS LOCAL WORK IN FIRE FIGHTING. THIS CERTIFICATE WAS AWARDED BY THE MASTER OF THE HONOURABLE COMPANY OF AIR PILOTS (INCORPORATING AIR NAVIGATORS) LONDON IN THE PRESENCE EN NC CE EO OF F PR P PRINCE R RIN IIN N CE EP PHILIP. HIILI H I LI L I P. P.

I would spend e considerable tim t uc nd ft co watching aircra , never ns io at er op t fligh would is th realising that e my m co be eventually .” er re ca chosen

“

here are you originally from? What brought you to this wonderful part of the world? I am the fourth child from five and was raised in Noosa on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, during the '70s and '80s. After 16 years living on the South Coast of NSW, I moved to Coffs Harbour nine years ago, when I joined the Precision Helicopters team on a full-time basis. During that time, the company has conducted tourism, instruction, airwork operations including firefighting, aerial ag operations, power line operations and survey work - all aspects of my career that I was interested in pursuing. When did you decide that you wanted to be a helicopter pilot, and what actually attracted you to this type of career? I became interested in aviation as a young sailor working as a Naval Fire Fighter in the Royal Australian Navy at Naval Air Station 64 coffs coast focus.

(NAS) Nowra on the South Coast of NSW. I would spend considerable time watching aircraft conduct flight operations, never realising that this would eventually become my chosen career. As time progressed and I had the opportunity to go for a fly in a helicopter, I realised that I may give flying a try myself. What type of training did you undergo to become a pilot, and where did you do your training? It was during this time in the Navy I started my training with AEROWASP Helicopters to complete my commercial training, completing this training during 1995. After completing my training, I worked on a part-time basis with Aerowasp Helicopters until I left the Navy in 1997, when I commenced full-time employment. During this time, I conducted my instructor rating in 1997 and moved into the world of helicopter instruction, working with ab initio students through to instructor students. To become a commercial helicopter pilot,

the student has to register with an accredited flying school, where they conduct their training set to a Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) syllabus of training. With my training, I underwent my theory training in conjunction with my practical training. I had to conduct 125 hours of training from my ab initio through to the advanced stages prior to achieving my commercial licence. You mentioned during the '90s you served in the Naval forces … what was that chapter of your career like? I spent from 1989 through to 1997 working in the RAN, and this is a good choice in career for anyone considering it. During the commencement of our working life we need to be able to respect the superior structure and take and eventually give orders, and military life is able to build that ability for any young man/woman. My time in the Navy improved my ability to work in a structured team. I made many friendships and comrades that continue to this day. The Navy certainly expanded myself as team player and gave me the foundation to build my future within my chosen field. What does a "day in the office" look like

for a helicopter pilot? Life as a pilot certainly doesn’t mean that you are flying every hour of the work day. There are a lot of regulations to adhere to, so a pilot has to keep abreast with regulation changes during their down time. To be able to spend your work day doing what you enjoy while gaining satisfaction in your job is the pinnacle of anyone’s career, and I certainly have been lucky enough to spend the last 20 years looking forward to going to work. Taking in that third dimension, being airborne, gives a person a different perspective of the world around us, and a helicopter is a great way to achieve such a feeling. What is Airborne Fire Fighting, and what attracted you to this type of work? Airborne fire fighting operations are controlled by the NSW Government State Air Desk (SAD) under the CASA regulations for Aerial Fire Fighting Operations. Aircraft are used on fire in various roles, including fire mapping, aerial observation (air attack), fire bombing and passenger transfer. The SAD tasks various aircraft to fires to conduct these various operations. For myself, fire fighting was just one of the natural progressions with aviation air work. As I progressed my career, I commenced fire operations in light helicopters, conducting fire duties such as aerial observation and fire mapping with light bombing operations, leading into medium helicopters for firebombing operations.

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“

My time in the Navy improved my ability to work in a structured team. I made many friendships and comrades that continue to this day. The Navy certainly expanded myself as team player and gave me the foundation to build my future within my chosen field. ”

As to date I have over three thousand hours on fire operations and as every fire scene is different, it never ceases to amaze me that no matter the experience, each fire scene can have its own individual demands. Whether working with aircrew or the crew on the ground on the fire ground, fires operations need to be treated with respect, as they can change at a moment’s notice. Working on destructive fires such as fire storms can be a demanding task, when property and stock are destroyed and no matter what effort we apply from air and ground, these fires are in full charge until the conditions subside, and until then we do our best to assist the situation. You were recently invited to London, where you were awarded the prestigious Master Air Pilot certificate. What does something like this mean to you? After working on the Coonabarabran fire storm January last, I was placed forward for the award of Master Air Pilot with the Guild of Air Pilots and Navigators (GAPAN), now called Company of Professional Pilots (inc. Air Navigators). I travelled to London during May this year to accept the award at an awards night and Livery Dinner at Mansion House, London’s Lord Mayors Residence. This certificate was awarded by the Master of The Honorable Company of Air Pilots (inc. Air Navigators) London, Dorothy Saul-Pooley LLB (Hons) FRAeS in the presence of the Patron, HRH Prince Philip KG KT.

During the evening I was personally introduced to HRH Prince Phillip, which certainly was one of the Early next major highlights of my year sees trip as I was speaking er my aviation care her to an opening of not only to Royalty, s ar ye 20 ng reachi nd the Albatross Aeroclub’s but a very highly and nine thousa g tin new facilities in Nowra. uc decorated pilot from hours cond al Nancy was a national ci the “grass roots” era commer ” . ns io treasure with a wealth of aviation. operat of knowledge of the early In your long career days of Australian aviation, as a pilot, what is the whom was instructed by Sir most interesting thing Charles Kingsford-Smith, and it you've seen whilst on the was a great pleasure to be her dedicated job? pilot for the day. I would not say that I have had a long With the advancement of technology, aviation career, as I have friends that have how have you seen the industry develop, been in the industry onwards of forty years, so and is this good or bad? I gather I may have a few years ahead. Aircraft have seen major advances and Early next year sees my aviation career improvements of technology over the last 20 reaching 20 years and nine thousand hours years, and the industry has to change to keep conducting commercial operations. During this up with the changes. Not so long ago, pilots time I have conducted quite a few interesting were fl ying around in '50s technology, but jobs. Whether flying tourists around the with the advancement of the computer age, island of Bali, Indonesia, or conducting stock helicopters are much more advanced. relocation during floods, I have enjoyed many As of this month, the aviation regulation stages of my flying. system are undergoing major changes and Who has been your favourite or most it shall take several years to implement most memorable person you've had in the of these changes. These changes are coming chopper? about to align our advancing industry with My most important passenger (VIP) that I world standards. have flown was Lady Nancy Bird Walton when If managed in the correct manner, these I collected her from Mascot in Sydney and flew

“

changes will improve the standards within the industry, but it will be up to the industry as a whole to critique and adapt to all the changes involved. What would you say to a young person considering a career as a pilot? When talking to perspective students, I like to ascertain as to what the student is aiming to achieve from a licence. Do they want a Private licence for personal reasons, or a Commercial licence to look at gaining employment within the industry? If looking to conduct a Commercial licence, the student shall be in for a life of studies. As the industry has grown and improved over the years with more advanced and larger aircraft, a student now has to have a different perspective and direction to a student 20 years ago. After completing a Commercial licence, the student shall look at advancing their career whilst continuing to study for their advanced subjects. This will give them the training and opportunities to achieve that elusive job. As the helicopter industry grows, the work prospects are certainly there, but it takes a dedicated pilot to stay abreast of the required advances. Thanks Gavin. coffs coast focus 65

MARCIA STREET FOCUS FEATURE

L AS E R PLUMBING Whether you require maintenance and servicing for your home, workplace, factory or farm, Laser Plumbing will be there when you need us. Our mission at Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour is to be the leading provider of Totally Dependable plumbing services. This will be achieved by working in partnership with customers, suppliers and our teams to add value to all industries in which we operate. We will aim to minimise your stress by providing a plumber who shows up on time, is well presented, professional and carries out your job with care and skill. We work closely with our key suppliers to ensure you are getting the best quality products on the market at competitive prices. We are continually researching the latest innovative products available and we will always recommend the best plumbing solution for your job. We take pride in providing excellent customer

66 coffs coast focus.

service, from the first point of contact through to invoicing. We want to ensure every customer has a quality experience and trusts us to complete the job thoroughly. We welcome feedback, so we can continually improve our performance. Maintenance and servicing is vital to ensure your workplace or home is safe and operating efficiently. We can provide a Preventative Maintenance Schedule to reduce the expensive costs of repairs or replacements in the future. Sometimes unforeseen breakdowns do occur, and Laser Plumbing will be here when you need us most. Every job is important to us and we will respond promptly to any call out, big or small. Whether your bathroom is flooded or you just need a drain unblocked, you can rely on Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour to provide a Totally Dependable service. With our growing nationwide coverage, you are never far from a local Laser Plumbing Coffs Harbour representative, so contact Laser Plumbing for your next plumbing job or project.

TINT A CAR Tint a Car â&#x20AC;&#x201C; bringing the cool since â&#x20AC;&#x2122;72. Tint a Car and Solace are household brands in Australia with 100+ stores. They are brands you can trust, with the most experienced tint technicians and outstanding customer service. Each store is locally owned and operated with an Australia-wide warranty. Craig and Leisa Klingbiel recently purchased the business and are renovating their office and customer lounge and increasing the size of their workshop. Sit back, relax and enjoy a latte or cappuccino while their installers tint your car or provide cutting-edge paint protection and interior protection. The coffee is so good, they have customers coming back just for another! They can also drive you to your next appointment, work or home free of charge.

How many times have you seen dodgy, bubbly tint? This is usually inferior and/or incorrectly installed film, making that cheap tint job not so cheap after all. Tint a Car also tint home and office windows under the Tint a Window name. Most windows have poor thermal performance, which means heat gain in summer and heat loss in winter. Unprotected windows also let in more glare and UV and encourage the premature fading on furniture, carpets and display stock. Solar Tint will block out everything except your view and is a cost effective solution to energy efficiency, specifically those that block up to 80% of solar heat, reducing your energy cost as well as contributing towards lowering your carbon footprint. Phone us or visit our office today.

MARCIA STREET FOCUS FEATURE

MEET GEORGE CECATO

ANY ENTERTAINMENT

What made you decide to take on a

Established in 2001 and based in Coffs Harbour on the NSW North Coast, Any Entertainment is a professional sound, lighting and AV company specialising in everything from outdoor festivals to boardroom fit outs. With a professional crew of engineers and installers, you can rest assured that your project will get the utmost attention. Any Entertainment are distributors for the most respected and well supported brands in the country. Brands such as NEXO, Allen & Heath, QSC, Shure, LSC, JBL, Australian Monitor, Sanyo, Epson, Audio Technica, to name a few, are all used in our hire stock as well as our projects. Local service, support and maintenance is a key aspect of our relationship with these suppliers. Any Entertainment has been at the forefront of production locally, being the first production company to offer a professional Line

Thrifty franchise? When we sold our previous business, we had a break for six months. After that we were looking for something else and the franchise opportunity came up, so we

Array System, Digital Mixing System and Computer based lighting control, while also offering the largest Point Source Array system on the coast. “We aim to offer the best production and crew for local festivals, touring bands, corporate events and dry hire, leaving you to focus on the success of your event, not worrying about your production company,” Craig Richardson and Adam Jones – Directors.

decided to take it on ...

start! My wife, Anna, is of course the co-owner

What awards have you won? Through the

and franchisee. Our son, Adrian, is full-time

17 years we’ve been in the business we have

and our daughter, Vanessa, is looking after her

won a fair few awards, but most recently we

two children, but comes in to help out when

have won the two biggest ones being Australia

she can. It is a full family business, and we’re all

and New Zealand Franchisee of the Year! In the

involved!

same night we won Australia and New Zealand

You’re very community involved; please

Customer Service Award. So we won the two

tell us about that ... The whole Cecato family

biggest awards in the Thrifty system in not only

have always believed that if you help out and

Australia but also New Zealand!

contribute to the community where we live

It’s a great morale booster for us, because all of

and work, it will always come back to you in

the hard work and effort we and our staff have

positive ways. We support many groups and

put in to the business is paying off!

organisations; just to name a few: Rotary, Camp

Are your family involved in the business?

Quality, Salvation army, Westpac Helicopter.

100%. the family have been involved since the

ABOVE ALL, WE TRULY LOVE OUR CITY!

coffs coast focus 67

MARCIA STREET FOCUS FEATURE

Our friendly office team

RAPIDCLEAN supplies RapidClean has moved to Bigger, Better, Brighter, Greener premises at 50 Marcia St. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the very bright green building which features the big RapidClean Green Frog at the front. Don and Betty Townsend purchased RapidClean on May 2012 and have found that the business has outgrown the previous premises on the Highway. We now have a larger showroom to display our vast range of cleaning products and equipment. We believe the reason our business is growing is because we are offering a great range of quality products at fair pricing, with personal service from our great staff. We can offer advice for all of your cleaning needs. Our aim is to provide our customers with a total cleaning solution, from a mop and bucket to a street sweeper. We stock major brands of industrial, commercial, domestic and environmentally friendly cleaning products. We supply vacuums, gernis, sweepers, scrubbers, repairs, spare parts, service, floor care, safety gear, matting, waste bins, bin liners, gloves, insecticides, cleaning cloths, brush ware, janitorial and washroom supplies, including toilet paper and hand towel, to name a few. We are the local approved repair, warranty and service agents for Gerni, Nilfisk, Alto, Kerrick, Hako, Tennant, Numatic, PacVac and Polivac and maintain many other brands.

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PLUMBE JOINERY Plumbe Joinery is a father/son owned and operated business based in Coffs Harbour. Our dedicated team has more than 90 years' combined experience in the construction industry, with both John and Robert having held building licenses for more than 20 years. Our reputation for quality has seen us involved in both residential and commercial projects up and down the East Coast. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re updating your kitchen, lounge, a home study, or even a new staircase, a stylish modern piece can be individually crafted to suit your space. You can make an impact with floor to ceiling storage, create a style statement along one wall or achieve that individual look with a custom designed entry door. With our passion for both timber joinery and quality cabinetmaking, we can provide you with a custom made product that perfectly meets your design requirements in this niche market. Visit our website at www.plumbejoinery.com or check out the current Grand Designs Australia magazine feature Rural Bliss, showcasing some of our customised joinery.

MARCIA STREET FOCUS FEATURE

Mills-THOM's mechanical repairs MILLS-THOMâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MECHANICAL REPAIRS HAVE BEEN PART OF THE JUNE STREET LANDSCAPE SINCE 1977. THE PREMISES ARE NOW LOCATED AT 1/6 JUNE STREET, COFFS HARBOUR. It was originally Bill and Patty Mills-Thom who got it all going, building a strong reliable business based on honesty and a great ability to repair or service almost anything that moved. Upon their retirement, Mike has taken this philosophy and is running with it. As an Authorised Repco Service Centre, we are able to offer quick lubes, services and repairs to all vehicles. We are happy to source genuine or best quality after market parts for your car. We have a great team here who have experiences in all types of vehicle servicing

and maintenance; whether you require a Log Book Service to your new small car, servicing of the latest European luxury vehicle or the maintenance of your commercial fleet, we can get it sorted. We use quality parts and Castrol lubricants. Pick up and delivery of your vehicle is no problem; we can carry out your vehicle service or repairs without putting a ripple in your day, and offer convenient over the phone payment options. We offer our Quick Lube Service which includes a twenty point check-up (usually

an interim style service) or our standard Full Under Car Service or Log Book Servicing. Rego time is no drama! We have authorised inspectors for any of your Pink or Blue Slip inspections and as agents for QBE CTP Insurance, green slips are also available. No booking is required to carry out these inspections. We can quote on any repair, whether it be a handbrake adjustment or engine wash, or source new tyres for your vehicle. We can even complete your registration online for you, so no dreaded queuing at the RTA.

We are happy to fit tow bars, and small fabrications or vehicle modifications are all within our scope. Our staff have a broad range of skills in the motor vehicle industry. Our workshop is well equipped with the latest computer diagnostics, wheel alignment and wheel balancing. We dispose of used lubricants, batteries and spare parts in an environmentally safe manner. In short, no matter which vehicle or what service or repair, Mills-Thomâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mechanical Repairs is your one stop shop.

coffs coast focus 69

70 coffs coast focus.

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with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs Photo by Emma Rhoades Photography

s o c i a l s c e n e

Jenny Evans, Hayden Dennis, Cathy Curran, Julia Johnson , Ian Arthur

The Knight Family Baby Shower

St Nic's Fashion Parade

There's mud in your eye

Photo by Bruce Thomas

Celebrity Dance for Cancer, Daryl, Bec, Anthony, Shona, Adam, Glenda and David

Photo by Bruce Thomas

Tour De Cure, Best Dressed Table winners

Photo by Bruce Thomas

Danielle Wallace and Lorenzo Bertelli

Red Bull promo girls

Sebastien Ogier and wife Andrea Kaiser

Social/scene. From the surf to the countryside of our beautiful Coffs Coast, there have been nonstop events to keep us constantly entertained!

f course, there has been the excitement of the Rally, with dust flying and the thrill of watching the super fast racing of the rally cars speeding through our state forests. These spectacular events splash us all over the world map, enabling us to showcase our priceless piece of paradise all over the globe. Running alongside these major events are smaller ones, but they are definitely just as important. We got to enjoy an exhibition that reminded us that we have one of the most beautiful coastlines in Australia! This event was The Call of the Surf Film Festival and was staged at our Coffs Harbour Jetty Memorial Theatre. Tom and Sherrin Woods from ST Surf Images were showcasing their sensational photography. One of the special guests of the day was Nell Schofield, who was the main actress in the early 1980s cult classic movie, Puberty Blues. She had made a special trip to visit and view our spectacular surfing beaches and attend the film festival held at our local theatre. Also a first for us was the amazing Opera by the Ocean Festival, which was a massive success. Coffs Harbour City Council had organised a treat not to be missed. The inspiration of the festival was Dr Leigh Summers, who pulled out all the stops to source out the country's operatic finest. There were performances in spaces, from Sap72 coffs coast focus.

phire Beach, Coffs Harbour down to Sawtell. This type of event has never been staged in regional Australia! There were 21 performances to tantalise all operatic tastes in all sorts of locations. One, for instance, was a delightful performance staged down at the Coffs Harbour Marina, where it was lit up by the dusk sky and a line up of fishing boats with twinkling lights. When House of Le Dãin Designs had the opportunity to open up its store and back courtyard for a sensational operatic performance, they jumped at the chance! The red carpet was rolled out and with help from floral arrangements by Kristel Pretorius from Silk Flower Girls and Margaret and Pete from Special Occasions, the courtyard was transformed into an area fit for the talented and beautiful soprano Samantha Cobcroft and pianist Vincent Pameter to perform their magic. Champagne and afternoon tea was to follow, to top off an amazing afternoon. Other performers involved in the festival were soprano Sally-Anne Russell, Louise Scott, Coffs Harbour String Quartet, New England Bach Consort and the Sydney Independent Opera Company. We recently attended an amazing show that was held at the Bunker Cartoon Gallery in Coffs Harbour. Talk about an explosion of talent! The exhibition was a potpourri of vibrant coloured fabric paintings, textile artwork needle workman-

ship and sensational quilt work. Brenda Gael was the exhibition curator and was overwhelmed with the response. The title theme was called Living Colour, and the exhibition was filled with just that. This was her second curatorial undertaking, and they received 177 entries from 160 textile artists from around the world. Tirty-two amazingly vibrant works were selected, which celebrated life across the spectrum. The works showcased were an example of the diversity of the textile medium in both the representational form and of course, abstract. Three of the talented selected Living Colour artists were local ladies Caroline Sharkey, Julie Harding and Sandy Corry. A large group of excited ladies and a couple of gents got all dolled up to attend the annual St Nic’s Fashion Parade. The show was held at the Uniting Church, situated in Elizabeth Street in Sawtell. This wasn’t a designer wear runway event, but those models of all ages and all sizes threw their all into making the Fashion Show a hit. From swimwear to racewear, the parade had it all. Organisers did a fabulous job, along with the MC - who was fantastic. After the show, there was the usual legendary afternoon tea consisting of scrumptious sweet and savoury delights. A great fundraiser all round. The Coffs Coast Antique Fair was once again a huge success. The event was staged at the Exhibition Hall at the Coffs Harbour Showground. This

is a favourite of ours, and it never fails to produce an amazing display of antiques and collectables. Don’t miss out on the start of the super popular Sawtell Summer Sessions on the 9th October. This street event sees First Avenue closed, provides a range of interactive activities and entertainment for local families and visitors to enjoy. Take advantage of the extended shopping hours of local eateries and boutiques. The first event will be a line up of Fashion Parades from store to store under the magnificent Fig Trees on fabulous First Avenue. I was certainly in my element just recently, as I am madly fond of travelling by train. There were no less than five historic tunnels and three scenic estuaries that were part of a series of vintage railway trips to enjoy. It was to celebrate the launch of the 2015 Coffs Harbour Centenary of Rail. The ninety year old rail motors took passengers on 70 minute trips throughout some of the most beautiful areas of the coast. One of the trips had the Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce enjoying a breakfast train ride. What a fabulous way to start the day! Coffs Centenary of Rail organised this "Grand Dame" of the railways to arrive exactly 99 years to the day since the first train arrived into Coffs Harbour! Talk about all aboard for some fun and frivolity. Can’t wait for the next ones! Carole from Le Dãin Designs.

focusbusiness. with the Sawtell Chamber of Commerce OME A LO • C

VISIT

SAWTELL

VISIT S AW

VISIT S AW ND

the many fabulous shops and boutiques or grab a coffee, drink or bite to eat. Make sure you come and check out our Sawtell Summer Sessions if you haven’t been before.

There are fabulous free classes from Lightstream Health Clinic, who hold a free "Meditation Experience" every Thursday from 6pm to 7pm. This is suited to both experienced and new meditators who want to learn to be calm and Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t kind to us create peace in their lives. Lightstream Health and we had to cancel our Onesie Cinema under Clinic also hold a free vegetarian cooking and the Stars, which was scheduled for Thursday 28 nutrition class every 3rd Saturday of August 2014. I know there were many the month from 12 midday. The disappointed FROZEN fans but never next class is on Saturday fear, we hope to be able to bring 20th September. Come the open air cinema back to along and enjoy these ll Sawtell in April 2015. te Our Saw ns great classes - for io ss Se er m Sum Our lovely village e those would like to th er ov n ai atmosphere in Sawtell are on ag d will an s have a healthier th on m er m sum continues to thrive and ursday Th life through good on ce en m m co impress our visitors. healthy nutrition er, then every ob ct O 13 Overhead in the street the and calm their busy nd Thursday of co se recently, a comment to March lives with relaxation month through from a young couple, 2015.” and mediation "This reminds me of techniques. Sorrento!" It’s always nice to Don’t forget, if you’re hear favourable comments, and looking for dinner in Sawtell these are due to the mix of fabulous on Friday or Saturday night, then businesses and the great atmosphere we Wholly Cow is the place. Dine in and have here in Sawtell. BYO or takeaway until 8pm. Wholly Cow Bella Cosa, the beautiful Antique shop on do fresh and healthy burgers with everything Sawtell's First Avenue, has just brought in new made in house – delicious! There are even lots of stock, including two scarce Chinese pieces. Both vegetarian and gluten free options – something the Chinese cabinet and table are made of black for everyone. lacquered timber and feature inlaid mother of We’ve got lots of great things happening in pearl, hard stone and hand painted decorations Sawtell over the summer months, so come and and date to circa 1920 - stunning authentic enjoy ... and we look forward to seeing you soon! antiques.

OME A LO • C

“

Michelle Lee It’s been another busy month for Sawtell and the Chamber of Commerce. We are gearing up to host the first of our Sawtell Summer Sessions, which kick off in October. e are also hosting the Drag Ens Hot Rod Club, who are returning to Sawtell as part of their annual Valla Beach run, after a very successful night in Sawtell last year. On Tuesday 23 September, First Avenue will be the home of the hot rods which will be on display from 5:30pm onwards. The Buskers Festival will also be in Sawtell that evening, which will make for a

great night out for both young and old, so mark that in your diaries! Our Sawtell Summer Sessions are on again over the summer months and will commence on Thursday 13 October, then every second Thursday of the month through to March 2015. These evenings have become very popular with the kids, as they can enjoy all the free activities in First Avenue whilst Mum and Dad can browse

coffs coast focus 73

OCTOBER 2014

with Terri

ARTHeading & FLOWERS Your Here! Friday 26th September Flowers on First will be opening their doors to celebrate Spring with an evening of Art and Flowers. Think beautiful sculptural floral works, paintings by Coffs Coast Artists, colourful childrens paintings, and vases brimming with flowers. Local Artists will be painting on the lawns under the Sawtell fig trees and free face painting will be provided by Sawtell Art centre. Our doors will be open from 6pm until 8pm, with champagne and canapes provided by Sarong. Sawtell Public School childrens paintings will be available for purchase with funds raised going to Sawtell Public School. Flowers on First, 1st Avenue Gallery, Sawtell Art Centre and Bella Cosa Antiques will all be opening with the theme of Art and Flowers where Artists, Artisans, Florists and School Children will be showcasing their work. For more information about the event, pop in-store to Flowers on First, 24 First Avenue Sawtell and pick up an invitation or call 6658 9599. This event is sponsored by Sarong bar and Restaurant.

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

September 24 - October 23

Your inner strength has been challenged lately. Now is the perfect time to set some new goals for a positive future. You will enjoy some newfound talents and friends. Azeztulite helps us to connect with alternate realities. Carry it on your being.

Some new friends are entering the picture, which is why old relationships are fading away. Words need to be spoken to clear some old issues. Speak from the heart. Zincite helps the creation of new ideas.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23

October 24 - November 22

You are letting go of a lot of passed hurt. Try to recognise all of your insecurities, so you can release them and their influence from your sphere of existence. Phenacite is a wonderful stone for initiation, bringing a new level of awareness.

Your words hold the power to end conflict. You are a peace keeper and a natural teacher, so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive. Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.

Fears and insecurities will surface but if you claim them and heal them nothing will hinder your progress. If you treat them light heartedly they will be transformed into new strengths. Calcite Brings spontaneity into the picture.

ARIES.

LEO.

S A G I T TA R I U S .

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

November 23 - December 21

Your past hurts have re-surfaced, just so you can release them and free yourself. You are being prepared for new beginnings, so try to go with the flow and focus ahead. Ruby shatters any fear and strengthens our passion.

Goal setting at this time will benefit you mostly, so make the most of this time. You can have what you want, but you need to know this. Give yourself permission to receive your wish, and enjoy it when it gets here. Aventurine will help you to grow very quickly.

TA U R U S .

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23

You are aligning with career changes, stepping up or into a new job. You need to be confident and assertive without being bossy and enjoy the new learning. Turquoise is great for confidence and uplifts our energy.

74 coffs coast focus.

Stand your ground with important discussions; you are waking up inner strength, and everyone in your space will like you more, so remain true to yourself. Citrine shatters any negative energy in our space and attracts abundance.

Listen to your words of wisdom, as these words will contain your own answers. Removing any prejudices or judgements will assist you further. Look for the outcome of your magical words. Kyanite helps us to build inner bridges for personal growth.

You have already wished for something. Now all you need to do is get out of the way and let heaven help you. Romance and passion are likely to be a major influence over the next few months. Rhodochrosite helps us find our inner childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s joy of life. Carry it for a couple of weeks.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20 Some direction is needed now, so you will be ready for the perfect opportunity. Deep inside you have your own answers; trust in your sensitivity and psychic ability as this is never wrong. Labradorite brings magical energy into the picture for manifestation.

coffs coast focus 75

76 coffs coast focus.

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F E S T I VA L P R O G R A M

F E S T I VA L O C T O B E R 2 4 - 2 6

THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT SPRING THAT GIVES YOU A GLOWING FEELING, AND THE SENSATION YOU CAN FEEL THE LOVE. ONE FESTIVAL ALL ABOUT FEELING THE LOVE AND CREATING AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY IS COASTOUT FESTIVAL, NOW IN ITS FIFTH YEAR.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 24 Zinc Welcome Party

hat do you know about CoastOut Festival? Do you know there is something for pets, a competition for cake bakers and decorators and family friendly entertainment? CoastOut Festival is a three night and two day gay, lesbian and friends’ entertainment event held each year at Park Beach Reserve in Coffs Harbour. The CoastOut marquee will be erected for a range of daytime and evening festival events from 24-26 October 2014. While the nights are made for the clubbing and drag queen crowd, the daytime shows have some gold standard performers, such as theatre diva Queenie van de Zandt, golden polyester prince Bob Downe, theatre stalwart Paul Ross and regional favourites. Both the CoastOut Fair Day on Saturday, October 25 and Grooves in the Park the following day offer afternoons of chilledout family friendly entertainment, perfect for enjoying from your picnic rug and deck chairs. If you fancy you have the most obedient

pet (and no-one said it had to be a dog), the best dressed or perhaps even a pet which is a bit of a look-alike for you, then enter your pet into the CoastOut Pet Parade, and you could win a prize. Clever MasterChef types might want to enter the best decorated or best tasting cake divisions in the annual CoastOut Cake Competition. Both pets and cakes will be judged by sponsoring experts during the CoastOut Fair Day. Serious clubbers make a beeline every year for the three nights of CoastOut partying, led by some of the leading DJs from the Sydney nightclub scene. Dance floor maestros such as DJ Magnus, DJ Lady K and DJ Justin Scott share the stage with singers of cabaret, stage and dance club fame such as Charity-Rose Turner, Paul Ross and Paul Robert. Not forgetting the fun of letting loose some drag queens to steal the show: the lovely Jan van de Stool, Cube Canberra queen bee Flangelina Jolie, good time international girl Sandy Bottom, and former coast dweller now ARQ Sydney resident queen, Coco Jumbo.

Park Beach Reserve 6pm - 11pm Host: Jan van de Stool (Queenie) Charity-Rose Turner Paul Ross Stars of Pollys Daisy May Sandy Bottom DJ Dirty Luck Paul Robert Coco Jumbo Verity Hawkins

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 BODY ELECTRIC MINI WORKSHOP FOR MEN

Free, Location TBA, over 18 event, 9:15am

COASTOUT FAIR DAY Host: Bob Downe 2nd Host: Daisy May with Polly’s Dancers

Pet Parade Cake Competition Sandy Bottom Local Cast of Hairspray Faeriephonica Bobby Coulton Verity Hawkins D’Boyzos Sam Stanford

Host: Flangelina Jolie DJ Magnus Bootleg House (DJ Magnus & Paul Robert) DJ Dirty Luck

Party in the Park

Park Beach Bowling Club 9am - 11:30am

Park Beach Reserve, 5pm ‘til 11pm Host: Sandy Bottom DJ Justin Scott DJ Magnus Bootleg House (DJ Magnus & Paul Robert) Flangelina Jolie Verity Hawkins Jacinta Vellatio

SWEET DANCE PARTY AT HOEY The Hoey Moey, 10pm ‘til late

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 26 BAREFOOT BOWLS & BREKKIE

GROOVES IN THE PARK (NEW) Park Beach Reserve, 11am - 5pm

SPLASH BEACH DANCE PARTY FINALE Park Beach Reserve, 5pm - ‘til late DJ Lady K DJ 1iSamurai Coco Jumbo Verity Hawkins

coffs coast focus 77

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FRIENDLY E N T E R T A I N M E N T GRAB YOUR PICNIC RUG AND DECK CHAIRS FOR THE COASTOUT FAIR DAY ON SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25 IN PARK BEACH RESERVE, HOSTED BY THE INCOMPARABLE GOLDEN BOY, BOB DOWNE. FOOD MARKET STALLS WILL KEEP EVERYONE FED AND WATERED.

ustralia’s Prince of Polyester, Bob Downe, still shiny with his success at this year’s Edinburgh Comedy Festival, will be asked to judge the Pet Parade of best-dressed critters and a Cake Competition as well. The fresh faces and sweet boy voices of family trio D’Boyzos are just one of a series of regional acts, including dimpled charmer Bobby Coulton, nearby surf club choirboy Sam Stanford and delicious songwriter Verity Hawkins. Vamping up the tempo will be Daisy May with Pollys Dancers, Sandy Bottom, the cast of the local Hairspray production and cosmic groovers Faeriephonica, with their songs of love, loss, cross dressing and rainbow unicorns.

78 coffs coast focus.

Expert judges will decide just who looks most like their pet, which pet wears the best threads and the most obedient pet in the 5th annual CoastOut Pet Parade. A less furry job (hopefully) is the taste testing role of judges for the best decorated and best tasting cakes in the CoastOut Cake Competition, an event growing in popularity among the TV cooking show fans. Sunday at CoastOut Festival starts with a gentle Barefoot Bowls and Brekkie at the nearby Park Beach Bowling Club. All are welcome to join in for a few links and break bread over brekkie with the CoastOut crowd. From 11am Sunday, Grooves in the Park is a new event to showcase local foods, wineries,

groovy tunes and easy listening sounds of some fabulous entertainers, all from the comfort of your picnic rug. Visiting diva Queenie van de Zandt is famous for enlivening any stage and will be backed by the CoastOut Crooners band. Another theatre star, Paul Ross will share his powerful voice, Sandy Bottom will no doubt be in scandalous form, Paul Robert will share his jazz style and local honky tonk woman Heather Rose will blow you away with her saxophone. Come and be a part of the inclusive, welcoming crowd of the CoastOut Festival at these family-friendly daytime events. Gold coin entry donations and competition entries benefit local charities.

F E S T I VA L O C T O B E R 2 4 - 2 6

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CLUBBERS AND NIGHTTIME F U N

F E S T I VA L O C T O B E R 2 4 - 2 6

utdoor party fun at CoastOut Festival starts on Friday 24 October with an outdoor Zinc Welcome Party, hosted by the lovely Jan van de Stool and a line-up of entertainers to make it a golden night. After the chart success of her single Into the Stream, Triple J Unearthed star Charity-Rose Turner promises to deliver her enchanting, breathy and raw songs. Serious male voice fire power will come from the two Pauls – theatre’s Paul Ross and jazz singer Paul Robert, now enjoying a new fan base thanks to his collaboration with DJ Magnus and their Gold Life single as Bootleg

House. Daisy May and the Stars of Pollys will grace the stage, plus the irrepressible international transgender illusionist Sandy Bottom and the sultry, exotic ARQ Sydney resident queen and Mardi Gras performer Coco Jumbo. Rising star Verity Hawkins will perform and the CoastOut resident DJ, Dirty Luck. The Zinc Welcome Party (theme of GOLD) is fully licensed and includes hot and cold canapés prepared by fabulous local chefs. Once evening falls on Saturday, the Party in the Park will get pumping under the thumb of host Sandy Bottom. ARQ Sydney resident DJ and man behind the beats at venues like

Taxi Club, Midnight Shift, Stonewall Hotel and Proud in Melbourne, DJ Justin Scott will get the marquee throbbing. Fellow ARQ DJ and producer DJ Magnus will show you how he got the mirror balls spinning at last year’s Mardi Gras After Party and recently at IVY Bar for I Remember House. DJ Magnus onstage with vocalist Paul Robert as Bootleg House will launch their new EP at CoastOut. Stealing the show (as always) will be the queen bee of Canberra’s Cube nightclub, Flangelina Jolie, who will also host the late night Sweet Dance Party at Coffs Harbour’s Hoey Moey. The CoastOut Sweet Dance Party is known

as a premier coast dance party and will have a sweet sound thanks to leading Sydney DJ Magnus and the coast’s DJ Dirty Luck. As the festival draws to a close, Sunday’s Splash Dance Party Finale will start pumping to the sounds of SX Magazine cover girl, DJ Lady K. A Northern Rivers DJ, Lady K has a dance floor instinct to make hearts pump to everything from House to tribal. Alongside is her “partner in dance-crime”, DJ 1iSAMURAI (aka Craig Wilson), both reprising their past roles as the CoastOut Finale Party specialists. All under the CoastOut parkland marquee creekside in Park Beach Reserve; it will be a hot and dirty spring weekend to remember.

Come one...come all...to

Grooves in the Park!

A fabulous food & wine event on the Coffs Coast. Sunday October 26th, Park Beach Reserve 11am - 5pm A stellar line up of entertainment & selected specialist food & wine providers. BYO picnic rugs, chairs and dancing shoes! Gold coin donation at the gate. Licenced event. People under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

coffs coast focus 79

focusinterview.

Niche Designs

AWARD WINNING NICHE DESIGNS BUILDER NATHAN WHITLOCK RECENTLY TOOK OUT AN AWARD AT THE RECENT HIA AWARDS, WINNING “BEST CUSTOM BUILT HOME IN NORTHERN NSW” IN THE $600,000 - ONE MILLION DOLLAR BRACKET.

hat are the HIA Awards? open contemporary feel. What is the criteria to enter? And your home is also your home office The HIA is Housing Industry … how does bringing your customers in to Australia. Annually they have your award winning home benefit them? an awards presentation to acknowledge and Building this project with the intention of give recognition to their members for outhaving a home office has become one of standing workmanship, design, innovation and the best business decisions we have made. professionalism in the housing industry. Some Clients are able to come and see the quality of the awards categories are for best project of our workmanship, as well as giving them home, custom home, renovation, kitchen and the opportunity to touch and feel some of the bathroom. All projects entered must have been products and materials used. Clients can also completed in the last 12 months. see first hand how well all design elements And your own home was nominatfunction on a daily basis as a family ed … how did you place? home. We are very pleased to be We understand that buildable to say that our home ing a home is an emotionin Emerald Beach was the al process, so to be able winner in the category to invite people into Our office is upstairs in a for “Best Custom Built our home and sit with nine, Home in Northern loft style mezza us in our space to get with creating a void NSW” in the price a feel for who we are ilings gorgeous high ce bracket $600,000 and how we think g in the main livin $1Million. creates a personalised areas.” What are the special yet still professional features of your home, working environment and what is it that the and helps clients to feel judges look for? confident and comfortable in The judges are looking for choosing to begin their journey outstanding workmanship, design and with us. innovation, as well as everything from the floor Why do you think it's important to build plan to functionality, environmental awareness with award winning builders? and value for money. People’s homes are usually their biggest Some of the features in our home that I investment, it is a time filled with big, life believe stand out are firstly the unique pavilion changing decisions from where to build, who style floor plan, which merges the borders to build with and right down to which colours between indoor and outdoor living. The pool in to choose. Awards like these recognize that the internal courtyard is a visual feast from the all areas of the build are equally important, so moment you enter the house and continues to it’s a great way for clients to see which builders feature from all areas of the home. Our office approach their projects holistically, giving atis upstairs in a loft style mezzanine, creattention to detail across all platforms. Knowing ing a void with gorgeous high ceilings in the that you are working with a builder that has main living areas. Our home features a lot of been recognized and awarded by other indusstone, timber and many other unique materitry professionals definitely gives clients peace als sourced both locally and abroad, creating of mind that their investment is in good hands. an earthy, natural ambience equal to the light, www.nichedesignbuild.com.au

“

80 coffs coast focus.

manny oppliger MANNY WAS BORN ORN IN COFFS HARBOUR, IS SWISS AND GREW UP IN PAPUA NEW GUINEA, WHERE HIS PARENTS WORKED AS MISSIONARIES. HE IS NOW BACK IN COFFS HAROBUR,

AND HIS HAND MADE WOODEN BATH WAS RECENTLY FEATURED ON THE BLOCK ...

hen did you start to design and mind. outdoor baths? Tell us about Where do you source the materials for the the first outdoor bath you wooden bath? built ... All bath tubs are custom made and built It was when I lived in Switzerland and spent to clients’ requirements using sustainable a lot of time in the snow. There is not much woodlots. Coastal timbers in Toormina are just more satisfying and relaxing than soaking in down the road from my shed and supply me a hot bath after a long day on the with top quality local hardwoods. I snowboard. I mate of mine lived have built a bath tub and vanity next to the ski slopes, and I using recycled Red Gum ul rf de had the idea to build an supplied by AA Hardwoods on w s el It fe d. outdoor hot tub for his in Kempsey. A trend at to bathe in woo ry ve so backyard. the moment is imported al e ar ey Th n Imagine enjoying a American White Oak luxurious and ca room. warm bath on a cold that I get from a enhance a bath uch, to snowy winter night wholesaler in Brisbane. Wood has a soft t is one of the mos ials and and for a refreshing And the million dollar er sustainable mat challenge, roll in the question? How did than er ng lo at holds he freezing snow? Building you get your wooden .” other materials the first tub was quite bath to be featured on challenging, but totally worth The Block? it. The Vos brothers worked for Why wooden baths? How the same builder as I did. At that unique… time I was working full-time as a chippy In early 2009, I relocated to Australia and experimenting with baths and surfboards with my pregnant wife. We only brought in my spare time. Late last year the boys’ what we could carry. Looking back, the first aunty, Jenny Bienefelt, who owns the Vintage year in Australia was filled with visions, being Nest in Bellingen offered me her shopfront to creative and realising projects – living my dream. display a bathtub. She loved the product and As there isn’t a big demand for outdoor hot recommended it to the Vos brothers once she tubs in this climate, I came up with the idea to heard they were on The Block. create wooden baths for interior use. Ok, I want to buy one - where can I get my It feels wonderful to bathe in wood. They hands on one? are also very luxurious and can enhance a Giant Media from Coffs Harbour have done bathroom. Wood has a soft touch, is one of an awesome job in creating a new website the most sustainable materials and holds heat for my business www.woodandwater.com.au. longer than other materials. Bathing in a timber Information about my products and contact tub is a regenerating experience for both body details can be found on the website.

“

focusinterview.

ACCENT BATHROOM + KITCHEN

ACCENT BATHROOM AND KITCHEN CENTRE AND SAWTELL KITCHEN CENTRE HAVE BEEN SERVING THE COFFS HARBOUR AREA FOR OVER 30 YEARS AND ARE STILL LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED BY JOHN AND GLENNIS SQUIRES, EMPLOYING 19 LOCAL STAFF.

As seen on The Block

The staff are

hese two well established local businesses have always supported many local charities, whether by way of monetary donations or the supply of products at no charge. They give TOTAL QUALITY COMMITMENT to either products sold or the kitchens, laundries and vanities that are custom made and manufactured locally. The new display of kitchens suiting all budgets is now incorporated within the Accent showroom at 4 Collison Place, and the result is a one stop shop to cater for all your requirements. The showroom is the largest on the Coffs Coast, displaying the most up to date products, and if not on display - they can be

obtained. We offer a relaxed atmosphere to make your selection, which can be the most important decision you may ever have to make for your new home or renovation. After sales service and warranty are paramount to us. Accent Bathroom and Kitchen Centre is proud to have provided products for many of the large projects in the Coffs Harbour area - and are continuing to do so. The staff are committed to genuinely take the time to be interested in your project, no matter how large or small, and achieve great satisfaction when the clients are happy at the conclusion of their projects. The range of products is vast, and the showroom, under the supervision of Craig,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

along with Louise, Carla ensuring complete satisfaccommitted to the ke ta y el in and Alan, is continually tion. We offer an in-home nu ge sted in time to be intere atter updated. Customers measure, design and m your project, no can feel reassured that quote service to achieve all, and how large or sm faction Accent, being locally your exact requirements. tis achieve great sa e owned and part of the Our kitchen consultants, ar s when the client on si lu community, will offer Laura, Steve, Grant and nc co happy at the .â&#x20AC;? ts ec them a personal touch John will be more than oj of their pr and a sense of security in happy to assist you. knowing that they are dealing Please feel free to come in with the owners - and not large and have a relaxing browse and take corporate companies. advantage of our obligation free quote. You Every kitchen and all cabinetry by Sawtell can be confident that we always strive to offer Kitchen Centre is custom made at our Sawtell the best quality in service and the lowest prices factory and is installed by our own tradesmen, possible.

coffs coast focus 81

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

Physio, family man, sportsman.

David Rose

ERGOFIX

Peter Coulson & team

Emerald Beach Plumbing

Local Physio, David Rose, is used to wearing many

Emerald Beach Plumbing is now in its 20th year of

hats! As well as building a new physio practice here in

operation in Coffs Harbour, run by Peter Coulson and

Coffs with his wife, Louise (also a Physio), David juggles

Pandora Colledge.

management of their award willing Physio practice in Mount Isa, coaching his youngest daughter’s soccer team and being a hands-on family man. David and Louise moved to Coffs with their three daughters “for lifestyle” and to be closer to family. “Our years in Mount Isa were a fabulous adventure!” David will tell you anecdotes of taping up cowboys at Australia’s biggest rodeo. David and Louise both specialise in Ergonomics and Occupational Health, but their Mount Isa practice being the only private Physios for 500 km meant they got to deal with all manner of injuries, which in bigger cities would typically go to specialist practices

Our aim has always been to deliver excellence in customer service and create a fantastic team culture. When this is your goal, then it is not hard for your people to give extraordinary customer service, because we work together as a very well oiled machine and maintain a happy focused environment. We all enjoy coming to work every day. Our people all bring such diverse personalities, qualities and experience to this business, and it continues to strive and achieve great goals and go from strength to strength. Plumbing is the easy part, but giving a great service is more challenging. Our plumbers are out there on the coalface delivering an efficient,

(e.g. foot or shoulder clinics). Mount Isa offered excellent

professional and friendly service with a smile and often a

experiences, professional and personal, but it’s their new

laugh every time. We do have some very tech savvy plumbers

chapter here that David is most excited about.

on board, who also contribute to the innovation of our job

“Ergofix Physiotherapy & Occupational Health is an opportunity for Louise and I to practice together here in Coffs Harbour,” David explains. Our practice here offers

management systems in the office. Emerald Beach Plumbing is not just a business, but a “great experience”, right from the moment you call us.

personalised, quality Physiotherapy service! We diagnose

But remember: behind all great men are amazing women;

and treat all types of musculo-skeletal injuries, aches and

that includes their wives, partners and the two awesome

pains, and really go that extra mile for our clients. We both

ladies Alicia and Pandora, who keep these men on track

just really love what we do!”

during the day.

82 coffs coast focus.

Gary Howard

Coffs Coast Connect

I am offering a FREE SERVICE. What is my area of expertise? I am an Electrician. I own and operate Coffs Coast Electricians. I own and operate Coffs Coast Connect. I have been a Justice of the Peace for 35 years. My family and I live locally. How can I help customers save money? I can currently offer my customers a 15% discount on their electricity usage on their electricity bills. What makes my business stand out? I saw a need for busy people who do not have the time to hang on the phone waiting for an operator to set up an Electricity Account. What I offer is very simple. My prospective customers can simply go on line to www. coffscoastconnect.com.au and enter a few contact details and then I call them. If it is convenient, we can set up an Electricity Account over the phone, or I can call back at a more convenient time. The customer is not kept waiting and can get on with life hassle free. Alternatively, customers can phone me direct on 0414 561 212 or email me at coffscoastsparky@gmail.com What services can I help customers connect, and why should they choose me to help? I can help customers set up an electricity account hassle free in their time. I can also offer customers great deals on mobile phones, mobile phone plans, home phone and internet bundles. I can also meet customers at their home, work or play. Talk us through the process. Go go www.coffscoastconnect.com. au complete the online, no obligation, application and I will call and discuss their requirements hassle free. This service I provide my customers is absolutly FREE.

M E N I N B U S I N E S S F E AT U R E

focusrealestate.

with Chris Hines from Unrealestate

real Mark Triplett

Sales Manager - Coffs Hardwoods

My role here at Coffs Hardwoods is

One thing I love about timber is the look

sales of our dried hardwood timbers,

and versatility and how it can change the

which encompasses flooring, decking

whole look of a home. Timber is timeless

and more. I have a background as a wood

and never seems to date.

machinist, so I can provide technical support

The most rewarding part of the job is the

to builders and customers that have an issue

feedback from our customers on how

when planning their project that they may

well the installation went and how good

need clarified.

the finished product has come up. Also,

Along with suppling the best quality

working for a family owned company that

hardwood, we try to offer technical support

is 100% Australian owned and operated,

where we can to aid our customers in

knowing that we have produced a product

getting their projects right from the outset.

using local product and labour.

Onsite inspections, identify existing species

We have a lot of good products, but we’d

for extensions on older homes.

really like to make people aware of our

I have worked in the timber industry for

other building products, such as external

30 years as a wood machinist and sales

cladding and architraves and skirting boards.

manager. I have been with CHH for 17

A tip: give quality. That’s the best

years.

advertisement.

YOUR HOME MAY BE A GREAT PLACE TO RAISE A FAMILY OR JUST LIVE. THE PROBLEM, OF COURSE, IS A BUYER DOES NOT KNOW THAT AND INSTEAD FORMS AN IMMEDIATE OPINION ON WHAT THEY SEE FIRST ...

ove at first sight is a cliché, but it has an underlying truth to it, as do most clichés. The simple fact is, we are an emotional species. Whether intentionally or unintentionally, we always form a first impression of everything we come in contact with. That impression may be conscious or subconscious. The undisputed fact, however, is our first impression determines any subsequent decisions a majority of the time. If you are selling a property, you must accept and focus on this fact.

than most is to simply clean it up.

First off, tidy the surfaces. Clearing away dishes and your daily clutter is the bare minimum you can do to at least let a buyer see the house that sits underneath it all. Then make the beds. If you want to do more, and really you should, take a hard look around. Are your surfaces covered in decorations? If so, are these here because they enhance the room, or because they have sentimental value? If the answer is the latter, get rid of it, at least for the time being. Start packing, even if you don't know where you are going As a seller, it is vital that you understand to move. You will be glad you did, for at least a buyer’s first impression of your a couple of reasons. First, potential home is everything. If the first buyers won't be distracted by impression is not good, the your clutter, and second, buyer will move on. It is you'll be that much further as simple as that. There ea along when it does come ar O bviously, one r are two areas where time to move. is when a buye the e you are going to make se to es m Look around the home co first inute m e Th a first impression, so . ty er op again. Is it crowded? pr ur street , let’s take a closer look they drive up yo g.” If you have more tin at them. they are evalua furniture than you

“

Obviously, one area is when a buyer first comes to see the property. The minute they drive up your street, they are evaluating. They are looking at all the homes, not just yours. As a result, it is important that you home looks as good as it can compared to those around you. This means you need to have the landscaping in excellent shape. Remove dead plants, edge the lawn, fertilize everything, rake up leaves and so on. If you have a driveway, you should have it cleaned before showing the property. Keep garage doors closed. The list is endless, so just make sure the first impression is impeccable. When I look through pictures of real estate online, I see so many pictures of messy rooms. People haven't taken the time to even tidy up a little before they or their agent take the photos that will be any buyers first impression. So often in these photos, the TVs are on and there are cans of drink on the coffee table. This looks so ugly! So I think the easiest way to make your home look better

absolutely need, or than fits comfortably in the room, consider packing it up also. But all this doesn't mean emptying your home to achieve that un-lived-in feel. On the contrary, you want your home to be cozy. There is a balance between cluttered and cozy, and you must find it. Once you've done a thorough clean-up, which obviously includes making bathrooms and kitchens shine (these are key selling features and should not be overlooked), make the beds and toss the pillows neatly on the couch. Position your remaining decorations in a way that truly accents the room. When it's time for your home to be shown, play some quiet, mellow music during showings, but by all means, leave the TV off. Consider creating some pleasant smells, as these too impact a buyer's first impression. By making your home stand out, you increase your chances of a quick sale, at the rate you are asking. So do yourself a favour and put in that extra effort. You'll be glad you did. coffs coast focus 83

Franchise versus Start-up The Salon by Nikki Williams opened its doors on Harbour Drive less than two months ago, a spanking new start up. Owner Nikki Williams returned to her Coffs Harbour hometown after over six years owning and operating an Ella BachĂŠ franchise in Noosa. She spoke to Mel about the advantages and disadvantages of start up versus franchise. You bought the Ella BachĂŠ salon in Noosa in 2007, knowing that it was losing money. Were you just young and stupid, or did you have a plan? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d been working there for six months. I could see why it was going broke, and the reasons were easily turned around. The owners werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t therapists, which made it really hard. They employed five full-time staff from day one, and that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work. Productivity was poor and not being a therapist, the owner didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know who was good and who wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. Quality control was difficult. There was far too much stock. Lots of different issues. Were you able to turn things around? Yes. When I took over, they were losing $72,000 for the year, and within the year we were in the black. Were there advantages to operating a franchise? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very grateful to Ella BachĂŠ. I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to open your first business with a franchise â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they teach you so much. They provided an annual marketing calendar. So every month I was given a gift with purchases, advertising templates and all those kinds of things. The brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot more recognised, obviously. We would get tourists looking specifically for an Ella BachĂŠ salon, because they know what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re getting. You decided to sell up and come back to Coffs after having triplets. Why not stick with a franchise? Surely a start up makes your life more difficult. I wanted to be able to step away and do my own thing. It gives me a chance to use what Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned over the years.

TIME FOR CHANGE? At school thinking about your future? Wondering about whether to learn or earn? Or just contemplating a change to your life, business or career? With government, business and industry now focussing on training as the key to success, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a perfect time to start that change. I can choose my own range now. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got an amazing new make up range called Jane Iredale. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the only brand on the market that has absolutely no chemicals. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m trying to secure NARS lipstick â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they just do the most amazing lipstick. On the cosmeceutical side, we are doing things like Vitamin A, peeling, skin needling. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exciting to be able to make my own decisions on products to suit my customers. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been to every different training course in Australia, pretty much. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m continually training and I make sure my staff are well trained and keep updating their skills. So education is a big thing for me, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m going to create a blog to provide people with non-biased, real information. Eighty percent of small businesses fail. How are you doing now, and how will you avoid failure down the track? Some days have been incredible, and some days are like, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Oh s**tâ&#x20AC;?. But thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s normal. It takes 12 months to build up a clientele. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very focused on cash flow. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t spend all our money on the fit out â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s some left for the early days. And despite the kids, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m prepared to do the work myself - I know I have to work my butt off. Would you like to franchise this business one day? I would love it to become a chain, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d never franchise it. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want my name to rely on other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s idea of quality. I saw how the previous owners ran that salon in Noosa into the ground. I want to run things my own way. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a bit of a control freak.

Thinking about starting a new business and not sure whether to start from scratch or buy a franchise? Contact us for advice and help in understanding the pros and cons of different business models and structures.

Here on the Mid North Coast, you now have more opportunities, options and offerings than ever before at North Coast TAFE to fast-track your goals and help you express yourself. You can find a learning pathway to suit your individual needs, be it on line, on the job or on campus. Join the global revolution and study online. Search, research, decide, enrol, pay and study through our online channel TAFEnow. There

As well as the online offerings, we can help you with a traineeship or apprenticeship, or even being assessed on the job. As well as our Coffs Harbour and Macksville campuses, there are two other campuses within an easy drive offering you expert training services and facilities in areas like horticulture, business, information technology, design, automotive, construction, hospitality, nursing and hair and beauty. Not sure that any of this is possible? Call us on 1300 NCTAFE, search â&#x20AC;&#x153;north coast tafeâ&#x20AC;? on the web, or visit a campus. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to show you how you can express yourself and change your life, career or business.

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everyone. ression is different for recognise personal exp we , FE TA ast Co rth At No venient locations rses online or at con a diverse range of cou er off we y wh tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tha near you. e it now. to you? Go on, pictur So whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important . FE North Coast TA possibilities. Express yourself at 233 to discover your u.au or call 130 0 628 .ed Visit northcoasttafe gh Street Coffs Harbour Glenrea e CHEC 363 Hogbin Driv Street Macksville 5-9 West

84 coffs coast focus.

are lots of flexible offerings that let you study at your own pace in your own place, with access to both tutorial and technical support.

UNIQUE BUSINESS Your Heading Here! COACH Do you want to work less hours and make more money? How many times have you heard that before in your business? I am sorry, I do not know of a quick fix that actually allows you to do less and make more instantly. However, I do know of a tried and proven program that has definitely allowed hundreds of business owners to do less and make more. First, you must be prepared to have a serious look at yourself and your business through a business diagnostic tool. How do you know where to go and what to do if you do not know where you are at now? Secondly, you must be prepared to do some work and make some changes of yourself and your business. If you are given the correct tools and allow yourself to follow a practical and simple system for you and your business, I guarantee you, you will work less and earn more. Having started and operated several successful businesses over 35 years, I believe I have the tools and knowledge to coach and direct you for your business success. There is no substitute for years of learning, countless books, several seminars and many years of practical experience in business. Having a business coach myself made an enormous difference to me and the profitability of my business. I definitely worked less and made more money. Do you want more time for you and your family and to take your business to massive success and profit?

we train the trainers Do you hold a TAE Qualification? Being a trainer is a rewarding career, providing you with the opportunity to change lives and inspire futures! If you hold a current TAE Qualification and are working as a trainer, from July 1, new Government regulations require you to add the unit TAELLN411 – Address adult language, literacy and numeracy, to maintain validity of your qualification. NORTEC (a Registered Training Organisation) are delivering this unit for a highly competitive price of only $175. With facilitator-led, face to face classroom workshop delivery, your TAE qualification can be updated quickly and inexpensively. So you can get back to what you do best – training others!

Barry Hockey Accountants Tax Time Deadline is looming fast – 31 October It is hard to believe how quickly this year is going. If you prepare your own tax return, then you need to complete and lodge your tax return by 31 October. If you have not been to a tax agent before and would like your return completed by a professional, then you need to see them prior to 31 October. You should ensure that your tax professional is a registered tax agent. Do you use your car for work?

NORTEC also provide training for full TAE Qualification (for only $1,390) and can provide the TAELLN411 unit or the full qualification to individuals via a range of flexible learning delivery methods or to group workplaces.

A deduction for work related car expenses can be claimed for eligible motor vehicle expenses incurred in deriving your assessable income. Motor vehicle expenses can be claimed via four methods. The logbook allows a claim based on the business use of the vehicle but you need to keep written evidence for all expenses, including estimates for fuel & oil used.

Workshops in the Coffs region are starting in November this year, or you can call us about individual learning delivery to fast track your training qualification.

At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. We not only specialise in taxation, but we have extensive background skills in finance and banking.

For more information, call NORTEC Training on 6686 6077 or email trainingservicesadmin@nortecltd.com.au

Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

IMPORTANT NEWS for TRAINERS HOLD A CURRENT TAE QUALIFICATION? YOU NEED TO UPDATE NOW! As of July 2014, Government regulations require that all trainers or TAE qualification holders will need to add the unit TAELLN411 Address adult language, literacy and numeracy, to maintain validity of their qualification.

For only $175 we provide: Facilitator-led, 5.5 hour face-to-face classroom workshop; For workplaces — at your site, face-to-face delivery (min 6 ppl); A Statement of Attainment in TAELLN411 on successful completion

BECOME A TRAINER! FULL TAE QUALIFICATION Cert IV in Training and Assessing TAE40110 Engaging, highly informative workshops that will give you the knowledge, confidence and skills required for the TAE qualification.

Includes the newly-required LLN unit, TAELLN401A . Up to 12 months to complete with flexible delivery options.

Cost only $1390.00 per person (payment plans available) WE ALSO ASSIST ORGANISATIONS WISHING TO COMPLETE THIS TRAINING WITHIN THEIR OWN WORKPLACE (min numbers apply with group concessions available)

WORKSHOP SESSIONS START NOVEMBER! TO CONFIRM YOUR PLACE Ph 02 6686 6077 or email trainingservicesadmin@nortecltd.com.au NORTEC also provide Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) for Management and Business Diplomas

Ph 6686 6077 For more informaƟon coffs coast focus 85

focusinterview.

racing IN THE

N I C K

S T U B B S

Nick Stubbs has racing in his blood and started racing speedway cars when he was only 14.

With a constant desire to “go faster”, he is now in the AMCA National class. Travelling the country with his family by his side, Nick hopes to one day drive in a super sedan or V8 dirt modified car.

hen did you first develop an interest in speedway racing? Were you raised in a car enthusiast family? What is your first memory of the sport? Absolutely. I was brought up in a car enthusiast family; my dad raced at Oran Park Raceway, and I also helped him work on cars. Our workshop was once owned by my dad, so I have been brought up around cars everyday of my life. I guess you could say racing is in my blood. Not only are you a speedway race driver, you are also a business owner, husband and father … how do you juggle your hugely successful speedway racing career and normal life? Juggling it all can sometimes be hard. Whilst at work I concentrate on our customers and their vehicles; that’s what keeps food on the table, not racing. I have an awesome pit crew, and they spend countless 86 coffs coast focus.

hours working on our car at night after we have closed up the workshop. Without them and their partners’ support, this wouldn’t be possible. As for my family, my wife and I made an agreement a long time ago that no matter what, Sunday is our family day, and that works for us. I also try my best to be home to tuck my little fellas into bed. You recently travelled to Darwin for the Darwin Cup and the Northern Territory Titles. How did you place, and what was that experience like? My family and I set off on the 8,000 km round trip to Darwin; it was an awesome drive over, and we got to do a few tourist stops on the way over with the kids to break the trip up a bit for them. The experience was amazing; the people in the Northern Territory are as genuine as they come and always willing to give you a hand. I started our racing over there racing the Darwin Cup - a three night event consisting of an overall point score. I won the first two nights straight up and got a fourth placing on the third night, as I was caught up with

a few other drivers who spun out in front of have five other team mates, which consists me. of family and friends. Our sponsors play a I came out on top of the point score, big part of helping our race team achieve its winning the Darwin Cup. full potential. They consist of Wayne and Following on from there, with the crew at The Plantation Hotel a few repairs to make I set being our major sponsor, out for my last night of Darren from North racing - the main reason Coast Engines, Grant o I won the first tw we set out on this long and his team of nights straight up trip to the Northern painters from Edge placing and got a fourth as I was Territory. After some Panel and Paint, t, on the third nigh w other great racing from Greg and Nicole a fe caught up with in t all who entered the From Curious ou drivers who spun out e title, I was able to Minds Puzzles m ca I front of me. e, or sc t in bring the number one and Games, who po e th on top of Cup.” in w ar D title back with me to keep our children e th ng winni Coffs Harbour. I have occupied on our long to return to Darwin next drives, our amazing year to defend this title and photographer Katherine hopefully get to keep it. from Smoking Wheels Who makes up your team, and Photography, Neil from Viking how many of that team travelled with Global Industries, BBX Australia and of you up north? course, Autoshop. Our team consists of our crew chief, Ryan Are your children showing an interest in Nicol, and at our local meetings we normally the sport?

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focusinterview.

ost Safety is of utm is th in ce importan a ith w ng hi sport; anyt tentially motor can be po don’t step dangerous. We track ce out onto the ra er op pr e th l without al fire as ch su , ar ge safety et lm he , proof race suits ” e. and neck brac

“

Our oldest son, Brock, who is now six has started racing Junior Quarter Midgets. He started when he was five, being the youngest to race in this class of racing. He loves it and the kids at school can’t wait ‘til news day, when they get to ask Brock all about where he has been racing over the weekend. How important is safety in a sport like this? Safety is of utmost importance in this sport; anything with a motor can be potentially dangerous. We don’t step out onto the race track without all the proper safety gear, such as fire proof race suits, helmet and neck brace. Tell us about your car? Did you build it yourself? What are the specifications? And if we want to have a squiz, where can we find you? Our car has been built by us. We run a V8 253 that has been worked; the specs are set out by the AMCA National Body. The race car is located

at our workshop in Marcia St. What about the culture of speedway racing in our region. Have you seen that develop? Speedway racing in our region has come a long way since I started. We have two close tracks located in Garfton and Lismore and then a bit further away in Brisbane, Gunnedah, Northern Territory, Victoria and Tasmania etc. Speedway is a very family friendly sport; my wife and kids travel with us wherever we go. You tend to make good mates in this sport, as we travel around Australia in a convoy a lot of the time with other families. Our kids develop a great sense of sportsmanship, and I'm now seeing this in my son Brock when he races. What would you say to someone who was considering taking up a sport like this? Be safe, have fun, it’s a great sport to be involved in. Thanks Nick. coffs coast focus 87

focusfeature.

nolan p a r t n e r s

C E L E B R A T I N G

on the coffs coast

88 coffs coast focus.

celebrating 10 years in business on the coffs coast

SCOTT AND MELISSA NOLAN ARE AWARD WINNING AGENTS. WITH OVER THIRTY YEARS EXPERIENCE IN THE LOCAL PROPERTY MARKET SCOTT AND MELISSA SET OUT TO CREATE A UNIQUE REAL ESTATE OFFICE OFFERING A FRESH AND CONTEMPORARY APPROACH TO SELLING, MARKETING AND MANAGING REAL ESTATE ON COFFS COAST. The Original Nolan’s team - 2004

From the beginning our to fresh approach braced em as w ss ne busi Coffs of by the people are e w d Harbour an for ul ef at gr y el extrem that .”

“

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NOLAN PARTNERS, CONGRATULATIONS! HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN THE BUSINESS AND WHEN AND WHY DID IT ALL BEGIN? We established Nolan Partners in 2004, with this October marking the anniversary of our 10th birthday. We both previously had been part of a large real estate franchise and saw the need for a more personalised approach that would focus on exceptional service. Scott has been in real estate for 26 years whilst I have been in the industry for 17 years. From the beginning our fresh approach to business was embraced by the people of Coffs Harbour and we are extremely grateful for that.

Ten years on, we could never have imagined the business would have grown and evolved the way it has. Initially our team consisted of ourselves, one other salesperson, one property manager, a sales support and a receptionist. We now have a team of seven salespeople, two residential property managers, a commercial property manager, four sales support and a receptionist. Whilst the team may have grown we have been very conscious of maintaining the culture we have developed by employing people with the same attitude and enthusiasm as ourselves. At the end of the day this industry is all about people and relationships.

coffs coast focus 89

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nolan p a r t n e r s

C E L E B R A T I N G

on the coffs coast

From 2008 until early 2013 the ook industry undert ic at some dram es and changes as pric ll sales volumes fe .â&#x20AC;? ia al across Austr

â&#x20AC;&#x153; DURING THAT TIME HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE REGION GROW AND HOW HAS THE REAL ESTATE INDUSTRY CHANGED? MARKET The past 10 years has been one of the most challenging periods the real estate industry has seen. After the real estate boom of 2003/2004 the industry saw a period of stability for the next few years until the infamous GFC hit in 2008. From 2008 until early 2013 the industry undertook some

90 coffs coast focus.

dramatic changes as prices and sales volumes fell across Australia. There was a massive rationalisation of the real estate industry with over 18,000 jobs disappearing from the industry. The past 12 months has seen a correction in the market with good price growth in most capital cities and volumes returning to the normal historical levels.

The local market has mirrored the national trends and is currently experiencing a busy period with buyer confidence at its highest level since the GFC. Price and interest rate stability has enabled many buyers to finally make that decision to purchase their next family home or investment property which many had delayed fearing that the GFC would continue. Barring

any catastrophic world event, the outlook is quite bright for the industry with most industry experts predicting a prolonged stable period for the industry. REGION Over the past 10 years the region has continued to grow despite the effects of the GFC. The recently completed Sapphire to Woolgoolga Pacific Highway upgrade has created a lot of interest in the Northern Beaches market as commute times have been dramatically reduced with the new upgrade.

celebrating 10 years in business on the coffs coast

nolan p a r t n e r s

C E L E B R A T I N G

on the coffs coast

It is interesting to note that when we started Nolan Partners 10 years ago that the North Sapphire Estate did not exist and the beach villages of Corindi Beach, Safety Beach and Moonee Beach were all small beachside communities developed in the 1960’s and 70’s. All of these areas have grown increasingly over the past 10 years in part driven by the ‘sea change’ lifestyle buyers. In the same period, Coffs Harbour has continued to grow to the West and Boambee/ Bonville are now almost fully developed. Probably the biggest changes have occurred in the commercial/industrial areas with a number of major buildings and estates being built and developed as investors

continue to gain confidence in the region and what the future holds for our wonderful city. INDUSTRY The biggest changes in the industry over the past 10 years have undoubtedly been in technology. The development of smart phones and Ipads has meant that the internet became mobile. No longer did people need to sit at a desk to surf the internet. Now they can simply pull up the front of a home, google the address and a plethora of information is at their fingertips. This has meant that we as real estate agents are now contactable 24/7 whether it be by mobile phone, email, text messaging or even Facebook, and members of the public will

use all of those methods to find out whatever information they need. Digital photography has replaced photographs and static window displays have been replaced by digital screens which can be updated instantly. Another big change has been the way we service buyers. Previously we would either phone a buyer when a suitable property became available or send out copies of the local property guide to a mailing list of potential buyers. Nowadays with modern

database programs designed specifically for the real estate industry we can contact buyers instantly through the internet via e-brochures, electronic newsletters, texts or emails to let them know that a new property has become available. Not only can we let them know that it is available but they can also see a vast array of images, floor plans, locations shots etc the moment a property becomes available.

coffs coast focus 91

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n The new locatio is one of the si ble positions vi t os m and in Coffs Harbour s nt ie cl r ou provides with and properties level of l an exceptiona exposure.”

“ YOU RECENTLY MOVED IN TO YOUR BRAND NEW PREMISES ON HARBOUR DRIVE, WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR CLIENTS? Yes, we moved to our new premises in January of this year! The move has been such a positive one for both our team and our clients. The new location is one of the most visible positions in Coffs Harbour and provides our clients and properties with an exceptional level of exposure. We have taken advantage of

this by also moving from old school static window displays and utilising high end technology digital screens. We have installed five of these LED screens to capitalise on the high levels of passing vehicular and foot traffic. It’s amazing to watch how many people stop to look at the properties as they rotate across the windows! Clients love how it promotes their properties to a whole other level.

We’ll guide you through the conveyancing process. Buying or selling a house is one of the biggest ﬁnancial decisions you’ll ever make, so you want to get it right. + We’ve settled over 200,000 properties. + We’ll keep you informed at every stage. + You can drop your contracts at one of our 70 Slater and Gordon ofﬁces.

For peace of mind at a small price, call 13 18 10 or visit slatergordon.com.au/conveyancing

LOW PRICE GUARANTEE *Conditions apply.

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WE’LL BEAT ANY COMPARABLE QUOTE*

The move also nearly doubled our floor space, thereby enabling us to install several meeting rooms for our clients where they can chat with complete privacy. Having extra space has also meant that we have been able to expand our team. For the client this has meant an even higher level of service and has given us the ability to introduce new marketing and promotional

activities. In general the move has made both us and our clients feel that our environment is now a perfect match to our culture and the services we provide. We have had so many positive compliments about how lovely our office feels when the clients walk in. The new location is welcoming and relaxing, yet professional and slick….and that is totally what we were after. And of course being surrounded by great coffee, food and the beautiful Coffs Creek boardwalk just adds to the experience!

c e l efocus b r a t feature. ing 10 years in business on the coffs coast

nolan p a r t n e r s

C E L E B R A T I N G

on the coffs coast

WHAT COMMUNITY EVENTS DO YOU SUPPORT? Nolan and Partners have always been closely aligned with the local community and support and sponsor numerous local sporting teams, schools and charities. Principals Scott and Melissa Nolan view this is as their corporate responsibility to help and support wherever and whenever they can. Scott has P rincipals Scott conducted dozens of local charity and Melissa auctions in support of various is Nolan view this sporting and charity groups and e at as their corpor sees this as a great way to give to responsi bility back to the community. In more t help and suppor recent times, Nathan Dobbs and wherever and Craig Gardner have continued can.â&#x20AC;? whenever they this tradition conducting a number of their own charity auctions. If you have a local event coming up and need the complimentary services of a charity auctioneer, pease do not hesitate to contact us as we are always willing to help out wherever we can.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

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A FEW OF THE EVENTS WE SPONSOR AND ORGANISATIONS WE HAVE DONE CHARITY AUCTIONS FOR ARE: Pink Silks Charity Race Day, St Augustines Primary School, Korora Public School, Can Do Carer, Camp Quality, Dragons Abreast plus numerous sporting bodies and individual fundraisers.

nolan p a r t n e r s

C E L E B R A T I N G

on the coffs coast

Ensure your WH WHAT’S THE NUMBER ONE and priced more realistically sell. property is IN TIP THAT YOU HAVE FOR If there was one thing that just the market, not PEO PEOPLE THAT ARE LOOKING a property owner could do to ON the market.” TO SELL THEIR PROPERTY? ensure they are getting the M Make sure your property maximum price is to make sure is ‘in ‘in’ the market, not just ‘on’ that their property is presented the market. Unless your property in its best possible light. De-clutter, is p professionally marketed, well top up the mulch in the gardens, trim pres presented and realistically priced, it will the plants and make sure there is plenty sim simply sit ‘on’ the market and not sell until other of air and light whenever the house is presented pro properties that are better marketed, better presented for inspection.

“

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celebrating 10 years in business on the coffs coast

WHY SHOULD A HOME OWNER CONSIDER LEASING THEIR PROPERTY THROUGH NOLAN PARTNERS? The property management team at Nolans should be your preferred leasing agent for the following reasons:

“

Our relatively youthful team are ‘career’ property managers and are consistently updating their skills, knowledge and use of technology to ensure they remain at the cutting edge of property management.”

1. As a boutique agency we look for quality properties to fit with quality tenants. 2. Our communication with our landlords is exceptional, you will always know exactly what is happening with your property every step of the way. 3. Energy and enthusiasm – our relatively youthful team are ‘career’ property managers and are consistently updating their skills, knowledge and use of technology to ensure they remain at the cutting edge of property management.

coffs coast focus 95

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nolan p a r t n e r s

C E L E B R A T I N G

on the coffs coast

WHAT MARKETING PLANS DO YOU HAVE IN PLACE AND HOW HAVE YOU SEEN THE INTERNET BOOM CHANGE OR SIMPLIFY THE INDUSTRY? We allow our owners to tailor make their own marketing program. Just like every property is different so are property owners. Some like all the ‘bells and whistles’ and some prefer a ‘softly softly’ approach. We do not believe in a ‘one size fits all’ marketing program and just as our marketing programs

96 coffs coast focus.

We do not believe in a ‘one keting size fits all’ mar st as our ju program and rams og pr marketing e our ar so e, bl are flexi s.” co m mis si on rate

“

are flexible, so are our commission rates. INTERNET The internet has certainly changed the way buyers look for real estate. Nowadays over 90% of buyers use the internet as their first point of preference when searching for a property. Therefore it is imperative that property sellers have their

homes seen in the best possible light ‘online’. Professional real estate photography has grown along with the internet as people understand the importance of online marketing. It is interesting to note that buyers will rarely hop in an agents car to see ‘what’s on the market’. Normally once they talk to us they have already been

on the internet to do their market research and shortlist suitable properties. By the time they view a property it is almost like a second inspection. Today’s buyers are much more informed than in previous times and can easily access sales data and information about the home and its surrounds in the comfort of their own home. This also helps explain why home sellers need to ensure their properties are professionally marketed, well presented and realistically priced!

celebrating 10 years in business on the coffs coast

WE ARE ALL EXCITED ABOUT THE BRAND NEW PROJECT IN PARK BEACH; EQUINOXâ&#x20AC;Ś TELL US ABOUT THISâ&#x20AC;Ś WHEN SHOULD WE EXPECT THIS PROJECT TO BE COMPLETED AND WHAT TYPE OF DEMOGRAPHIC WOULD BE ATTRACTED TO THIS TYPE OF LIVING? WILL THIS CONTEMPORARY WAY OF LIVING BE COMPLETE WITH DOWNSTAIRS CAFE, SHOPS ETC? Nolan Partners project team of Shane Hessenberger and Scott Nolan, are excited to be approved as marketing agents for the new â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Equinoxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; apartment complex at Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour. This nine storey modern high rise is set to raise and redefine luxury beachfront living on the Coast. Combining the best practices in

This moder architecture, the convenience ront highrise beachf engineering and of apartment t to raise se is t en pm lo construction, every living. Typical deve achfront and redefine be apartment has at buyers tend to be arbour.â&#x20AC;? living in Coffs H least two aspects â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;empty nestersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, ensuring abundant early retirees and natural light and young professionals ventilation. Vast open but enquiry has been plan living areas open onto received from a vast crosslarge undercover balconies section of buyers. providing the ultimate in With all apartments enjoying ocean alfresco living and entertaining. views, from a filtered view through trees to Currently under construction, the project an open uninterrupted view of the ocean, is due for completion in the first half of beach and south to the Harbour, the project 2015 and with 50% already sold it is complex will be complimented by a ground proving to be exceptionally well received by level restaurant, cafe and shops. the market. Many of the buyers are locals This is the second major project for the who are seeking a beachside lifestyle and developer having previously built and sold

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the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Platinumâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; project at 111 Ocean Parade. The developers are keen to continue their investment in our city and are currently completing feasibility studies on two new sites. Boasting contemporary luxury living and cutting edge innovation, Equinox is the ultimate fusion of quality, creative design and irreplaceable lifestyle. Scott and Shane are currently working with two other major developers looking to build multi-unit complexes in the Coffs and Jetty precincts. After years of land banking, it appears that developers are now looking at the Coffs Coast with enthusiasm and the future looks bright for Coffs Harbour and the Nolan Partners project team.

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1800 355 863

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HUG CONGRATULATIONS ON 10 YEARS HUGE the way. OF B BUSINESS And it shows by your exclusive appointment 10 years in business is an amazing as the only RER Network Member achie achievement and to continually appointed in your area. With just 1 in delive deliver excellent client service approximately 30 agencies being and tthe kind of results that invited to participate throughout you aachieve for your sellers Australia and New Zealand, the For us at Real is just inspiring. Your Estate Results Network is an exclusive one ea comm community involvement and due to your appointment Network you ar ss true local Busine and w what you provide as the only agency in the area .” Leading the way for so many community shows your level of skill that events really shows how you bring to your market. much your local community (RER Network -Developed by means to you and the delight Australia’s leading business strategist you have in your community. and real estate coach, Michael For us at Real Estate Results Sheargold, the Network offers a select group Network you are a true local Business Leading of independent real estate professional’s, access

nolan p a r t n e r s

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c e l e b r a t i n g 1 0 y e a r s i n b u s i n e s s o n t h ec ec loefbf rs a ct oi na gs t1 0 y e a r s i n b u s i n e s s o n t h e c o f f s c o a s t

nolan p a r t n e r s

to the most advanced Team of the Year ARERA’s 2014 learning and development It is no doubt that your ar Agency of the Ye systems in the world business goes from strength 13 A’s 20 (Regional). ARER Agency today). to strength each year. ue Regional Boutiq s 2012 Appointed Members to So once again I say A’ of the Year.ARER t en em ag RER Network are selected CONGRATULATIONS an - Property M ”.” on 5 components and and well done and here’s Team of the Year must be a stand out Agency to another 10 years of in their area including – 6 exceptional business service. star client service, outstanding You guys deserve to celebrate and negotiating skills, Progressive enjoy what you’ve achieved.” thinking and commitment to excellence. And Micheal Sheargold & Shane McLucas Nolan Partners certainly lives up to all of these Real Estate Results Network requirements and then some. Throughout your 5 years as an RER Network Member, Nolan Partners have shown that they are a progressive and highly skilled real estate group that add immense value to Network Members with innovation and cutting edge strategies that they freely share with members through out Australia and New Zealand. And with the amazing achievements that Nolan Partners have achieved for their commitment to client satisfaction and outstanding results in sales and service its no wonder that they have won so many awards beating much larger agencies across Australia and New Zealand and winning awards like: - ARERA’s 2014 - Agency of the Year (Regional) - ARERA’s 2013 - Regional Boutique Agency of the Year - ARERA’s 2012 - Property Management

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on the coffs coast

coffs coast focus 99

Leaps and bounds ahead.

We keep winning awards because people love the

Drop in for a chat today.

homes we build for them.

Ofﬁce

With lots of customisation options, the certainty of ﬁxed price contracts, and a local team of builders you can trust, you’ll enjoy the difference. MBA Excellence in Housing Awards

171 Orlando Street Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Opening Hours Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm

Winner – Exhibition/Project Homes $300,001-$350,000 MBA Regional Building Awards

Display home

Winner – Best Display Home $300,001-$350,000

3 Green Bluff Road

Winner – Best Kitchen Under $25,000

North Sapphire Beach NSW 2450 Opening Hours

2014 HIA Northern NSW Housing, Kitchen & Bathroom Awards

7 days 10am to 4pm

Winner – Work, Health & Safety Award 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.

Call us on 02 6691 3509 or visit online at gjgardner.com.au