Coffs Coast i53 by Focus

COFFS COAST

Feature Story fromZION

February 2015//issue 53

H U T T O N -T H A M M

coffs coast focus. 1

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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's note. Photo credit: Darren Heelis Photography

focus COFFS COAST

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: Kyle Rathbone kyle@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.

Melly Shute.

from the

Welcome to the February issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

his month you’ll find lots of fabulous stories about fabulous people. I am always so very excited by the many wonderful people who call Coffs Harbour home. We interviewed the team behind kids’ fashion label, fromZION. The Leishmans are a family who have faced adversity head on and came out the other end all smiles! Justin Standley is a country music singer who will be performing here in Coffs Harbour this month - an inspiring man who went on TV programme The X Factor and was reconnected with his daughter, who recognised him whilst she was watching the show! Another inspiring gentleman, Ernie Lovelock, is a well known Aboriginal man who has dedicated his life to caring for other

people. A topic that I’m quite passionate about is organ donation. I have had a personal experience with this serious issue, so I was delighted when I was able to interview Michelle Hayward, who has recently written her thesis about a message that we are both keen to share. This edition has a huge wedding feature headed by Sam Dawson, Married by Sam, who also doubles as a FOCUS team member. We also have two huge business features: design studio 22 showcase their hardworking team’s fantastic work, and Ryan McCarthy and the team at Coffs Harbour Hardwoods celebrate 53 years in business. ON THE COVER It’s no secret that I love art. My walls at

home are covered in pieces that I’ve collected along the way. I was just thrilled to have come in contact with the extremely talented Emma Hutton-Thamm. At only 22 years of age she is not only paving her art career, solo exhibiting at 1st Ave Gallery in Sawtell, she is also studying a Bachelor of Psychological Science at the University of Queensland! She is a young woman with an extreme amount of talent! ED’S PIC This photo was taken at the Coffs Jetty Carnival by Darren Heelis Photography. FINAL SAY

WALKER GROUP DPS

“I don’t mean to interrupt people. I just randomly remember things and get really excited!” - Sam Dawson.

Melly Shute – Editor melly@focusmag.com.au Instagram: @le_mellyshute

coffs coast focus. 5

AROUND THE REGION //FEBRUARY 2015 Photo Credit: Chrissele George

13 15 • ‘til •

Bollywood Markets Woolgoolga Bollywood markets are held the first and fourth Saturday of every month and include live entertainment, food and fun! When First and fourth Saturday of the month. Where Woolgoolga Beach Reserve. Cost Entry is free. Stall enquiries 6654 7673 or bollywoodbzr@gmail.com

AFREKETE SUMMER DANCE CAMP

Chinese New Year Dinner at Beachstone Café

Wedding Open Day

A piece of Cuba comes to Coffs Harbour again on the weekend of 13 - 15 February for the third annual Afrekete - AfroCuban Summer Dance Camp, thanks to Cuban dance pioneers Kulturithmik, with the generous support of Coffs Harbour Arts Council and Latinos and friends MNC Community.

When 13 February 2015. Time 6pm - 9pm. Price $35 per head; kids half price. Contact 6653 6188 or info@beachstonecafe.com.au All ages welcome!

Where BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort. When Saturday 23rd May. Where BreakFree Aanuka Beach Reasort, 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450. breakfree.com.au/aanuka-beach/

Where Sawtell Beach Holiday Park. When February 13 - 15. More information and booking in for the Afrekete Afro - Cuban Dance weekender, please call Christina on 0432 509 519 or email kulturithmik@gmail.com

6 coffs coast focus.

14.

inside this

MoonShine Run. The Moonshine Run started here in Coffs Harbour as a semi acoustic three piece band 18 months ago. Since then, the band has evolved to an all-encompassing five piece with a huge and original sound!

Issue 53 - February 2015

20.

Angus and Julia Stone.

usual suspects.

the

After going their separate ways to pursue solo careers, Australian brother and sister duo Angus & Julia Stone have been back in the studio together releasing their self titled album and embarking on a world tour. FOCUS chats to Angus about life in and out of music â&#x20AC;Ś

52.

6. whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on for February 22. eat featuring local restaurants 61. star guide with Terri

Michelle Hayward. Mother of three, Michelle Hayward has a passion for decreasing the waiting list for organ donors. Recently completing her honours in psychology, she wrote her thesis on this fascinating topic.

64. tourism with Tourism Coffs Coast 66. social scene with Carole Beros

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

www.focusmag.com.au follow us on

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here are you originally from, and how did you find yourself in sunny Sawtell? Charles and I are both long time Sawtellians. Our families moved here in the mid 1980s, and we have spent the majority of the 30 years since living in this great little community. We have moved out to pursue other opportunities but have always returned, as Sawtell is home. Our four children are also growing to be proud locals in the 2452. You have combined a barber shop and retail store. Tell us more about that. Boomtown Grooming and Apparel was something that simply developed from our own interests and the recognition of an opportunity in the town. Charles is into surfing, custom motorbikes and lowbrow culture and has been visiting barbers shops since he was a boy. I love interiors, design and fashion and enjoy the social aspects of retail, so the idea just seemed to float. The name came about as Charles always used Boomtown as a nickname for Sawtell to his Coffs Harbour friends. The actual space was something we wanted to reflect these interests and our

style, so we decided to take on the fit out ourselves. We have been overwhelmed by the positive reaction to it, although our friends say it looks just like our house. Probably the best thing about it, however, is how comfortable people feel in there, often sitting on the lounges reading a mag or just hanging out. We are also planning some get togethers in the space in the future with a representative for Charles’ favourite drink, Sailor Jerry’s Spiced Rum visiting the shop while on holidays and offering his support for a collaboration. Who is your barber, and what is his background? Resh is our barber and a major part of our business. He is the real deal when it comes to barbers. Resh was traditionally trained in his homeland of Turkey, starting his apprenticeship at 12. He is proficient in all aspects of barbering, from cuts to hot towel straight razor shaves to threading and even “kulak yakma”. Charles has been following Resh since he moved to the Coffs Coast, and they met about 6 years ago. What labels do you carry? Who are your customers?

Our stock, be it clothing, grooming products or accessories are all labels that we personally wear or love the style of. For clothing, these include Deus Ex Machina, Globe, Kustom Kreeps, Epohke, and we are a major stockist of Afends. We carry Suavecito, Proraso and Jack the Snipper for grooming, and A boy named Aaron and The Saramai Dynasty for accessories. We are also currently in consultation with a number of smaller and local labels that we would like to stock and promote. If you have one, bring it in so we can check it out. Being a barber shop, many people expect Boomtown to be a blokes only domain. This is far from what it is. We stock both men’s and women’s fashion and will do our best to make whoever comes through the door happy. Before we go, we must thank our fabulous community for their support and the fact that after such a short period of time we have regular and loyal customers already. Instagram - @boomtown2452 Facebook - Boomtown Grooming & Apparel Interview with Emily Hibberd.

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skate or a trip to the new skate park in town. Our one year old has now even caught the obsession and cries every time we finish a skate and take him off the board. Outnumbered, I have even learnt to skate, just so I will be able to keep up with the boys. The Grommy Stick has allowed Oakly to develop his skating skills, gain confidence on the board and just have lots of fun keeping up with his dad. Soon we will be able to take it off and watch him continue his skating. If you would like to order a Grommy Stick or check out more pics, have a look at our Facebook page www.facebook.com/ grommystick or email us at grommystick@gmail. com. All Grommy Sticks come fully assembled and ready to attach to any skateboard. Website coming soon.

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focusinterview.

from

Jasmin is the face behind the brand fromZION. An avid Christian, wife, mummy to Zion James and Lacey Hope, Jasmin is addicted to sewing,designing and creating. fromZION is a label that produces quality leather soft soled baby/toddler moccs, along with children’s clothing and accessories.

J A S MI N + B E N

aised in Coffs Harbour, after school you and your high school sweetheart moved to the Gold Coast to pave a path in the fashion business … Tell us about the type of work you did on the Gold Coast and how that influenced your label fromZION? When we moved to the Gold Coast, we didn't have any idea that this business would come about eight years later. I was working in retail fashion and web design, amongst other jobs, for the years before I had my two babies. My son, Zion, was the inspiration for the brand. Take us back to the beginning; when did fromZION begin and why? Why children's wear? When Zion was one, I struggled to find clothes/shoes in the mainstream stores that I liked. Being creative and able to sew, I got a leather jacket from the op-shop and cut it up to make a pair of moccs for him. I posted a photo of them on my personal Instagram, excited at what I had made! A couple of other mums wanted a pair too! I was pregnant with my daughter at the time and decided that I should start a little handmade business to generate an income that allowed me to stay at home with my babies while they were little. On February 7th, 2014 when my daughter was four months old, I launched fromZION. We released 100 pairs of moccs online and never expected them to sell out ... but they did, and I wasn't ready!

12 coffs coast focus.

market. For the next four weeks I was sewing ‘til all A few weeks into fromZION, I had to make hours trying to get the orders out - all while a hard decision ... a) stop fromZION altogethhaving an 18 month child, a difficult four er, because I wasn't coping with the stress month old and selling/packing up our whole and the workload being a mum and wife OR house to move back to Coffs Harbour! You are self taught; tell me about the sub- b) find a manufacturer to continue making jects that interested you in high school, my designs for me and grow the small and who has been your biggest business into a company. creative influence to date? We chose to take the I was an only child and huge risk and get a was always bored, so my manufacturer to creativity was what kept grow, and I’m excited to say that we me happy! I would ke We chose to ta d are now officially make anything and an the huge risk to r a company! everything! At school re tu get a manufacexcited We now have I did every crafty grow, and I’m are now e two fulltime staff subject available - inw to say that !” ny pa m co cluding being the only a and five casual ly official girl in woodwork and staff to help us metalwork! Fashion decope with the massive amounts of orders sign, textiles and design, to be packed when we photography - you name it, do a re-stock or a sale. I did it! How important has Instagram To be honest, I don't have one biggest creative influence. I just pull inspiration been in building your success? Tell from a range of other successful businesses me about your marketing strategy ... and amazing textures, colours and designs Instagram is the only marketing that we really do (except for magazine interviews!) and that grab my eye. If I want to wear it or I want it works! Instagram is just a booming world of my children to wear it - I make it! online shopping right now! We try to be very The label has only been in the market for professional like a large company would in all twelve months; how have you developed our practices, and I hope that it sets us apart in that short amount of time? from the small handmade business that we It has completely snowballed, and it amazes came from. me every day! We just have a great following We create excitement and urgency with on Instagram worldwide, and they love our our "re-stock" dates, and it works very well. products! We are careful with our marketing We sell out online and people ask for weeks, decisions and staying in amongst the target

“

"When is the next re-stock?" We aim for a date (to space out our stock releases throughout each season), and then we pump it. Our website has crashed multiple times with the overload of people trying to grab before someone else does. You husband has had a very successful career and he has since come on board to build fromZION … What skills does he bring to your label? Ben moved to the GC purely so that he could study graphic design. At the time, Coffs Harbour didn't offer the course. He was soon scouted by Billabong and offered a position at their head office. It’s great that he had that background, because he now works for me at fromZION full-time. He handles all of the graphics side of the business - designing images, photography and editing, design files required by our manufacturers for each season etc. Building a business and raising two young children is a heavy work load. How important has your Christian faith been in getting you through all of this? Simply put - we couldn't have done it. We relied on our faith every day when we felt that we couldn't keep doing it. When you feel like you can’t take another step, out of nowhere would come this encouragement and push to keep going. It’s also been huge to have the support of our friends and family, who were always ready to jump in and help us whenever and wherever it was needed. We have incredible people surrounding us. Thanks Jasmin.

coffs coast focus.

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THE MOONSHINE RUN STARTED HERE IN COFFS HARBOUR AS A SEMI ACOUSTIC THREE PIECE BAND 18 MONTHS AGO. Since then the band has evolved to an all-encompassing five piece with a huge and original sound!

ll band members live locally. Three members are originally from the Coffs Coast, one from Victoria and another originally from New Zealand. Watch the guys preform this month at Hoey Moey. Collaboratively, you have over 100 years of music experience. Who makes up the band? Jamie is our amazing guitar player, Ian hits the drums, Vince cranks the bass guitar, and I play guitar and lead the vocals. We change it up a little - Jamie sings a bit, and we’ve got Big Mike (AKA Leather Lips) who styles our sound with his harmonicas. Together, we’ve created a really unique sound. The Moonshine Run play a unique mix of blues, rockabilly, punk rock and boogie chill. This is a pretty diverse genre ... what background do each of you bring to the band? While playing the blues is something that brings us all together, yeah - we all bring something different to the mix. I have a long history of playing punk rock and rockabilly, Vince loves metal, Jamie is into his ‘60s surf rock and grunge, and Mike simply loves straight out classic blues music. Ian brings a touch of soul and funk to the mix. While we play through a bunch of covers across many of these genres, together we create original tracks that blend so many of 14 coffs coast focus.

these influences into a really hard hitting sound that we’re super proud to call our own. You had a great year in 2014. Tell us about the journey the band has been on since conception ... and why was last year particularly special? 2014 was awesome. We hit the studio twice to record original tracks, Offbeat Operations have been booking us into plenty of Coffs Coast venues, and we’ve just been enjoying the response. We love getting people up and dancing, and so many Coffs Harbour venues have been supporting what we’re doing. We played Grooves in the Park at Park Beach reserve, shot a film clip and did a huge new photo shoot for the new record. We’re looking forward to a huge 2015. You have a new CD coming out; fill us in about this next step as a band? We’re all really proud of our first record, Love and Madness. We didn’t go out to write a top ten pop album with intentions of fame or glory, because we’re just not into that. We all believe that real music is timeless; we really wanted to make a record that we’ll be proud of for a really long time, and I think we’ve achieved that with this one. At the end of the day, we’re making the music that we want to make. Making a record is always a great step as a band - it’s hard work, but there is a great reward at the end of

We love getting

“

mitments, but we make it. We can’t wait to people up and y an m so The Moonshine Run a deliver our music to d an dancing, es nu ve ur bo priority and we’ve all our listeners, and we ar H Coffs orting pp su en been 110% committed hope you enjoy! be ve ha g.” from the get go. You are very popuwhat we’re doin lar and well known We put in our rehearsal on the Coffs Coast time at Scratch’n’Bite studios band circuit. What do on Thursdays - a great place to you love about playing in jam out! your home town? This month you'll be playing at Coffs has a bunch of great local original the Hoey Moey. What are you looking bands; they’re all out there slogging their forward to the most about this gig? guts out for you every week. It’s not $100 We’re launching our first record, Love and a ticket, you don’t have to buy $12 light beers, Madness, on Thursday 19 Feb at the Hoey. We’ll and you don’t have to get stuck up the back trybe doing a bunch of giveaways on the night, ing to see the action. It’s out there all the time, and the whole thing is proudly supported by and all you have to do is go out and catch it. 2CSFM. Listen out for a chance to win a free There’s some real talent here, and we’re proud copy! We’re super excited and hope to see plenty of fresh faces. The record is available from to be a part of it. Valentine’s Day from themoonshinerun.com Between all band members, you have seven Thanks Chris. children plus full-time jobs. How do you manage it all? Where and when do you rehearse? the plug! It’s a mammoth effort, to be quite honest. We’re so lucky to be blessed with such supportSee Moonshine Run on Thursday 19th ive wives and girlfriends, who really give us all February at the Hoey Moey. the time and support we need. We work hard and we play hard, and we wouldn’t have it any (02) 6652 3833 other way. It would be easy to call it a day on hoeymoey.com.au doing the things you love because of other com-

LOVE + KISSES Monday, October 27 - the day Love & Kisses transforms into Coffs Harbour’s famous Christmas shop! You’ll have to see it to believe it. You’ll find tiny handmade matchbox nativities from Peru

Coat ofand ARMS for just $8.95, nativity stars made of olive wood from Bethlehem for only $2.50. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, buy that There are little Christmas bellswill from Jim Shore’s what Disney special someone a gift that last forever; collectibles range, musical snow globes, more pretty things better than a rose that will stay beautiful and vibrant than you’d fi nd at Myers ... and Santa has dropped off ... or an everlasting heart? hundreds of reindeers this year! Our team here at Coat of Arms wish you all a happy A special Christmas decoration a lovely gift for come Valentine’s Day; even those of youmakes without a Valentine, teachers, to be remembered every year when the tree in and love yourself up with a fantastic piece of art or a goes up. Judy says each year more people give Christmas treasures piercing. as gifts to friends and workmates, and Grandmas often start Choose one of our designs: receive a 20% discount on any a collection for each grandchild and give a special Christmas of the above designs for the whole of February. ornament every year. The team at Coat of Arms consists of 6 tattooists, two Lots of people are shopping already for Secret Santa and the piercers and friendly counter staff. All your needs and desires stockings, and you’ll be amazed at what you’ll find in this can be created and made a reality by any of our amazing little shop for under $10. artists, from small, intricate tattoos to large custom and Love &pieces, Kissesear Christmas has quiteand a following over unique piercings tobuilt implants scarification. the years, and people come from far and wide to look and Anything you want, we can do it, so come and meet our shop. Judy says each year more and more city folk time their team if you don’t know us already: Arm, Meg, Craig, Krys, trips through Coffs Harbour to shop for Christmas at Love & Ness, Clancy, Shea and Bobbie. For any further assistance, Kisses. call 6651 1893, or come and visit us at the shop 6/7 Join the people “in the know” - call in soon and browse Monterey Arcade, Coffs Harbour. among the treasures.

Klaustel Phones & Data Klaustel Phones & Data

Can Klaustel supply and install business phone systems Cansmall Klaustel supply and for businesses? Yes!install business phone systems for small businesses? Yes! We cater for all businesses of all sizes. Whether you have 1 We cater for all businesses of all sizes. Whether you have 1 to 4 lines or 2 to 8 handsets, we have great business phone to 4 lines or 2 to 8 handsets, we have great business phone system packages that are created to suit your business needs. system packages that are created to suit your business needs. Do I need to lock into a long term contract or payment Do I need to lock into a long term contract or payment plan? No. plan? No. There is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment There is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment plans. Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer plans. Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer interest free payment plans. Remember, we are a small interest free payment plans. Remember, we are a small business just like you. business just like you. Do I need any sort of maintenance contract? No. Do I need any sort of maintenance contract? No. Our systems have a 1 to 3 year warranty period depending on Our systems have a 1 to 3 year warranty period depending on the make and besides, very little goes wrong with our systems. the make and besides, very little goes wrong with our systems. Can Klaustel bundle my telephone lines using the NBN? Can Klaustel bundle my telephone lines using the NBN? YES. YES. We have a free, no pressure consultation and have the We have a free, no pressure consultation and have the flexibility to create bundles that suit you and your business flexibility to create bundles that suit you and your business What would Klaustel recommend when considering What would Klaustel recommend when considering buying a new phone system? buying a new phone system? Always opinion and and quote, quote, and andremember rememberatat Always get get aa second second opinion Klaustel who sells sells you you the the equipment equipmentwill willbe bethe the Klaustel the the person person who same person who installs and maintains it. same person who installs and maintains it.

giant media The benefits of Custom-designed websites In the market for a new website? If you’re considering a GIANT MEDIA template, consider these factors first: Building great local business success stories… Functionality: A template website can only do so much, at This month Sam Dawson from Married some pointwe in are the featuring future you may come unstuck whenby you Sam. We have worked with Sam for over fi ve years really need to add more content or functionality to yourand website. enjoy her bright and bubbly personality; she is a true positive Design: A template can start off looking good, but without inspiration. the know-how it can quickly become a mess of images and poorly formatted content and you are left with no support to “I have nothing but complete praise for Bryn and resolve it.

his innovative team. When starting my business from Search Engine sites are scratch, I foundOptimisation: Bryn so easyTemplate to deal with, heoften listened to what I trying achieve, wenot workshopped my ideas built quickly and to cheaply and do perform well in Google and he turned my dream into a reality. His advice searches. to design a logo and to pop this on my hot pink car First impressions count: Your website will oftenwebsite be the first alongside a slick, modern and user friendly impression of your a custom designed website can has truly been thebusiness, key element to my business success.” help reinforce your brand values and make that first impression a positive one.

Sam Dawson – Married by website Sam consultation to help We offer a FREE 30 minute ensure a great Call uscall on us 66today. 515 322 or visit To start you yourget own greatwebsite. success story, Visit www.giantmedia.com.au www.giantmedia.com.au to book a free consultation.

coffs coast focus 19 coffs coast focus.

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the

leishmans JANINE LEISHMAN IS A CANCER SURVIVOR (NOT UNUSUAL, I HEAR YOU SAY...) BUT WHAT IS UNIQUE IS THE

WAY SHE, HER HUSBAND AND THEIR TEN YEAR OLD DAUGHTER HAVE CHOSEN TO DEAL WITH SUCH A TERRIBLE EXPERIENCE. . THEY HAVE DONE IT AS A FAMILY, WITH A CONSISTENTLY POSITIVE ATTITUDE AND NEVER A WORD OF COMPLAINT! sis, Since my di ag no ese th s ct lle co w Bec no nating do be ill w d an coins cancer them to a breast women s lp he at charity th culties ffi di al ci an fin with h ug ro th while going w get lots no so al I t. en treatm s.” ge sa as of extra 20c m

“ hey have all participated in the doctors' appointments, chemo sessions, home treatments, diet, shopping ... Both Janine and her husband job share, and they have managed to maintain that through the long and difficult weeks and months … Rebeccah has sold eggs from her chickens and herbs from her garden to raise funds for cancer research. She even cooked scones for all the other patients waiting for the painful weekly sessions. They are a beautiful family, and this is their story… All the way from Africa, what brought you to Australia - and how did you wind up in Coffs Harbour? I was working as a radiographer in Windhoek, Namibia, and felt like a change. The opportunity came up for me to work in Australia, so I came over in 2004 and met my husband, Andrew, and we now have a 10 year old daughter, Rebeccah. We came for a holiday to Coffs, really enjoyed it and knew we would settle here and raise our daughter. Andrew had also spent some time here when younger surfing and had enjoyed coming up from Sydney. When and how did you first find out you had breast cancer? April 2014. I work at Coffs Harbour Radiology and had arranged for one of the sonographers to perform a routine breast ultrasound before I started work for the day. I was doing CT scanning when the radiologist came to tell me he had seen some areas he was unhappy with, so he did biopsies of those areas the same day. I was sent home. Two days later, my GP called me to come into the surgery, where I was told at the diagnosis. Your daughter, Rebeccah, was only nine years of age. How did she react to the 16 coffs coast focus.

news? What was her understanding of your condition? Andrew, Bec and I were having coffee and ice cream when the phone call came from the GP, so we went together to the surgery. Bec is an amazing girl. She was so brave when we told her and had such a positive attitude that we as a family would get through this and that she and Andrew would do all they could for me. We are an incredibly close family, so were very open with Bec (age related) and talked through things, answering any questions. Bec has been with us around the medical field since she was born, so in some ways that made things easier to understand about what was going to happen. As a result, Bec has become passionate about fundraising for breast cancer … Tell us about her efforts? Bec has, for years now, collected any silver change she might get as a gift or for doing jobs around the house and when a charity fundraiser came up in her school, she would donate all the coins to that. Since my diagnosis, Bec now collects these coins and will be donating them to a breast cancer charity that helps women with financial difficulties while going through treatment. I also now get lots of extra 20c massages. Our community is proof that when times get tough, we all get behind each other… How special and supportive has the Coffs Coast community been to your family? We don't have any family in Coffs Harbour, which is hard, but medically the oncology departments at Baringa, the Base Hospital and the breast care nurse, Lee, have been over and above amazing. The staff have always been very

supportive, providing tissues when needed and sometimes going beyond their job descriptions to make my treatment time as easy as possible, moving appointments around so that I could go into work when I felt up to it. The breast cancer support buddies were also amazing with their support and just someone to talk to and be with. My boss, Ann, has also been amazing in being flexible and accommodating with shifts. Rebeccah's school has been very supportive to Bec and us as a family, producing meals for some nights and with some of the teachers doing ironing and even picking Bec up for school some days. Friends were overwhelming in their giving of the time to do the housework, help Andrew in the garden, cook meals, look after Bec when needed and give us emotional support. We were blown away by how people wanted to do anything big or small to help. We also have lovely neighbours who looked after our animals when we were away in Brisbane for some of the chemo treatments - especially two very special neighbours that constantly checked on me and gave us lots of love. How has cancer affected your outlook on life? I have always been a positive person, but this has cemented the fact that no matter how bad things seem, there is always a positive - you just have to look for it - and that people are unconditionally kind. What I have always known is that my husband and daughter are the most precious people to me, and that I must not sweat the small stuff. Sometimes it's the simple things that wom-

en feel uncomfortable discussing with their doctor. What advice would you like to give to women about breast cancer? No question is ever too silly or small to ask. Write them down as you think about them, so you don't forget. Talk things through with somebody who has been in the same position if you can. So much information is given to you, so for me just dealing with what I needed to know at the time helped me keep focused. When you have a bad day and you are grumpy, don't beat yourself up about it; just be kind to yourself - it's not forever. Be proud of who you are and what you might look like now, because you will be a survivor. As a family you've pulled through together. You don't have memories of kicking balls or playing outside together, but you've created your own special memories - how does Rebeccah want to give back? Andrew, Rebeccah and I were only talking about this a few days ago, and Bec suggested that it would be nice if she could talk with other kids whose mums had been diagnosed with breast cancer about how she dealt with it all and maybe in this way help them through their journey e.g. talk to your pets because they are unconditional, and don't answer back. Also keep collecting those pennies to give to a breast cancer charity. Final say … Even though there are days it feels like it is just you against the world, cancer is a shared journey with your loved ones, so talk to each other, be understanding with each other, love unconditionally, and be kind to yourself. It's a road that you can't see the end of initially, but there is an end and you will start a new path. Be healthy, be happy, and enjoy life. Thanks Janine.

coffs coast focus.

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SAWTELL BASED EMMA HUTTON-THAMM HAS RECENTLY OPENED HER SOLO SHOW AT 1ST AVE SAWTELL. AT ONLY 22 YEARS OF AGE, THIS SELF TAUGHT ARTIST IS AIMING “BIG”, BOASTING REPRESENTATION BY COFFS HARBOUR, ARMIDALE, NEWCASTLE AND PORT MACQUARIE REGION GALLERIES, WITH WORKS IN PRIVATE COLLECTIONS IN ROME, MELBOURNE AND BRISBANE.

H U T T O N -T H A M M e can't believe how talented you are at only 22. When did you first begin to paint, and what formal training have you had? When did your creative journey begin? I didn’t start until I was 17. Prior to that moment, I had never had a lesson - and I haven’t really had one since. I was fortunate enough to get to paint with The Archibald Prize’s frequenter Vincent Fantauzzo early on in my career, which hugely benefitted the development of my technical skill of course, as Vince is phenomenally talented and was able to give me some great pointers. Beyond that though, all I can really say is that I’ve spent a lot of time staring at things! Whether it was a person or a piece of art, I always had this need to pull the thing apart in order to see how all of the moving parts fit back together. I had to know how it made sense. My thinking, I guess - and I should note here that I am a fairly anxious person who doesn’t deal 18 coffs coast focus.

terribly well with uncertainty, was that if I could afterthought. just find some kind of rule in it all, I could take Your work is so special and has a profound that and apply it to something else. I feel like effect on people. How would you describe everything I’ve ever learnt I’ve hoarded like a your artistic style, and back to the squirrel with nuts, in the hope that one beginning - how have you developed your day I’ll put back together the great style? meaning behind the mess that is Raw and candid are the two words life. most often thrown around when In my classes on it comes to my work. I don’t learning and cognition know that I went into it with Humans tend to - I should perhaps also those intentions of course, t lo learn an awful mention that I am a because to paint in such n atio through observ I psychology student, a way is to inadvertently n he W and imitation. w sa I hence the obsessive make a lot of personal d an r was younge e, m ed and neurotic admissions which I’m ov m at things th find to d lle tendencies - we have not always comfortable pe m co I felt that n ai nt co discussed the capacity owning in the public eye. to ay aw for mental rehearsal That’s certainly what they’ve profundity.” to be as powerful, if not come to be though, so that is more so, than the real life how I would describe my style: practice of a task ... which, raw and candid. I’m hesitant to use looking back helps to make sense of terms like photorealistic, because the works a few things for me. It’s as though visually I was aren’t truly photorealistic either. With regards always mapping people’s faces, and to have put to the development of my “style” though , those observations onto a canvas was just an it’s something which most definitely occurred

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largely through trial and error. And by “trial and error”, I really just mean “error”. Humans tend to learn an awful lot through observation and imitation. When I was younger and I saw things that moved me, I felt compelled to find a way to contain that profundity. I wanted it in a jar on my shelf so I wouldn’t forget. So I’d try to do what somebody else was doing. Stylistically I’d attempt the same thing, for example. And it wouldn’t work. Because the person producing it is you, and not them. The ways in which it didn’t work though, is actually where your style emerges. It’s like a presence you can’t stifle, even if you want to! And so you build on that. You take the cue. You hit the ground running with bits and pieces of the world around you, and you build a picture of it based on what you bring to it. Considering how young you are, you have exhibited quite a lot. What does this mean to you, and what do you enjoy the most about exhibiting? Oh look, to be able to boast that I have been represented by Coffs Harbour, Armidale,

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Emma Hutton-Thamm

Newcastle and Port Macqaurie Regional My solo show, entitled A House You Didn’t Build Galleries, as well as having works in private and Can’t Control, was at once an admission to collections in Rome, Melbourne and Brisbane ... flaws and a bid to accept and willingly sit with It’s ridiculous. It’s a huge privilege to have been them. In this respect, the title of the show was entrusted with those kinds of opportunities at intended to be analogous to our bodies and this age, and I am eternally grateful to those our lives as being a thing in whose making we who have been nothing but encouraging had no say over and whose circumstances we from the word go. The act of exhibiting is an often have far less control over than we’d like to interesting one though, because it’s not always think. The works within it - all portraits - are an something I relish. I am an incredibly private exploration of the way others inhabit their skin person, so the act of opening up an internal and make sense of the cards they’ve been dealt, dialogue for conversation not just which seeks to be sympathetic to this. with people that I know and You're also studying a Bachelor trust but with the general of Psychological Science ly ib ed public … Well, it can be at The University of cr I am an in , on rs pretty daunting. Queensland. Describe pe e privat g in en op To have people your perfect career this of t so the ac ogue al di al rn te connect to my work time in ten years? in up an n not tio sa er nv to the extent that Well, art can be a very co r fo that they do though, and solitary pursuit. In my just with people t but I know and trus moreover to have experience, many artists l pu blic ra ne ge e th with them want to come are quite self-invested. pretty … Well, it can be and talk to me about And you have to be! You daunting.” their interpretations and have to carve out a place in ideas as a result … that’s this world for that kind of thing pretty special. That, for me, has and then fend for it with a bat. I am got to be the best part about any of not criticising that at all. But in the year it. To hit on something meaningful enough I took off after finishing school to practice to resonate with so many different people art, it left me wanting in the sense that meaning really makes you feel like an integrated part for me really comes from engaging with others. of this bigger thing by which were all bound. The beautiful thing about art is that, in so far as Don’t ask me what that is exactly, but it’s warm others connect to it, as a means of engagement and fuzzy! this can be one of its very nourishing utilities. You are currently exhibiting at 1st Ave But my practice, being the painting of people, is Gallery, Sawtell … Tell us about the works also directly fed by my relationship to them. So that have been chosen for your solo show? I would love to be both practicing psychology I don’t know how many people will be and art, in some capacity. I’m taken by both too familiar with the idea of “wabi-sabi”, but it is much to quit either. a Japanese expression used to encompass an Thanks Emma. acceptance of impermanence and imperfection.

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Photo by Christiana Ferreira

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• ANGUS & JULIA •

After going their separate ways to pursue solo careers,

Australian brother and sister duo Angus & Julia Stone have been back in the studio together releasing their self titled album and embarking on a world tour. FOCUS chats to Angus about life in and out of music …

ell us about the new album. You and Julia have had some time apart doing your own thing; what was the inspiration behind getting this record together? A big part of it was getting a call from this Producer who wanted to work with us in the States. We flew over to Los Angeles after making the decision that we’d get back together; we rocked up and we made a record in this beautiful studio call Shangri La, which has got a lot of really magical history of bands that are just legends and that we’d grown up listening to forever. It’s just a really humbling feeling to be involved in that space. We kicked out some jams, and we made a record. We’ve been on a world tour for the last three months and we just got off - and now we are back on. You’re on the bill to play Coachella this year - that’s huge. It’s not the first time, though? What’s the experience like being part of such a massive lineup of amazing musicians? We played Coachella a few years back; it’s really cool. Every festival we rock up to, the lineup is always pretty epic. It’s always a little bit humbling to walk in and see your name up against some of the bands that have been a part of your lives and have inspired you, and you’re playing alongside them. It’s a

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pretty special feeling. Can we expect to see some old and new material on this tour? Yeah, we’ll be materialling up! I guess every night’s different ... but we’ll be playing a bit of it all. How do you like to spend your time when e you’re not touring Every festival w e th , to or recording? rock up pretty When I’m on the lineup is always a little road, I sort of find epic. It’s always walk bit humbling to me myself daydreaming na ur in and see yo about getting home of the e m so t up agains and just being in the been a It feels like every show is bands that have ... ” sunshine, drinking es liv a bit of a highlight - every ur yo of rt pa beers with mates. time you meet somebody and Being back in Australia, it they tell you the story of how doesn’t matter - everything they found the music. All of them you do here is pretty amazing. are highlights. We live in such a beautiful country; it’s But, I feel like making this record with Rick paradise. Rubin was a pretty humbling endeavour - just Where do you call home these days, being around him and hearing his stories Angus? of artists he’s worked with and being in the Home ... I’m currently based permanently studio and having him recommend all these nowhere. We live on the road, so we live in musicians to us that are just so amazingly venues and at festival sites, but I have a block gifted. The whole thing just feels like a of dirt up the coast on the East Coast of blessing. Australia that I like to call home. Do you have a favourite song from your What would you say would be the biggest childhood that still resonates with you highlight of your career to date? today?

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I remember growing up listening to the Presidents of the United States of America, a song called Peaches ... It takes me back to being a kid. Final words ... We’re looking forward to seeing everyone, and it’s going to be an epic night of romance and joy. Thanks Angus.

the plug! See Angus and Julia Stone at C.ex on Sunday 15th February 2014 - 7pm. www.cex.com.au 6652 3388

Pathfinders saso.creative Different businesses have different needs. That’s pretty obvious really, but we’re constantly surprised at how businesses, especially small businesses, are made to shoehorn their branding, promotional and communications needs into a pre-defined, cookie-cutter style marketing strategy.

Emma Louise Flowers Congratulations on your first year as a retail shop. How has the year gone? Wonderfully, thank you! The year was very busy with weddings and events, and I have had a great response from Coffs Harbour locals wanting to support the business. Have you found your niche in the industry? I feel my rustic and organic style arranging has been very welcomed, and the majority of my clients come to me wanting this style. I create a lot of non-traditional bouquets for weddings and love to design arrangements outside the square. What can we expect from Emma Louise Flowers in 2015? I will be continuing to work with local growers to bring you all the freshest, highest quality blooms daily. The ever popular $25 “bunch of the day” will continue, which is a great, affordable way to send flowers to yourself or a loved one. And with the diary getting very booked up, it will be another big year for weddings and events!

Even more surprising is how many businesses go along with this approach. Sure, we don’t all have the capital and resources to book a 30-second spot on the NRL or AFL Grand Final telecast, but that doesn’t mean we have to accept a one-size-fits-all approach to a process that is, after all, supposed to make us stand out from the competition, not blend in. At saso.creative, we believe in the difference of your business, in its individuality and in its unique attributes and benefits. We believe your business deserves an individual, unique approach to its marketing strategy. We believe you need to stand out, not fit in. Small businesses and startups need special attention to ensure they get the most bang from their marketing buck. When time, money and resources are limited and finite, the marketing strategy that worked for your friend’s event organising business is probably not going to work for your bait and tackle shop. You need to talk to marketing and promotions experts who can evaluate your unique selling points and suggest and build a customised brand and promotions strategy around your points of difference. Our past and current clients come from a range of industries, and collectively represent an enormous diversity of needs, outcomes and budgets. Compass Group is a multi-national requiring every aspect of print and web design; Doctor On Duty has a fast-paced media agenda; Coffs Coast Derby has passion to burn but zero dollars; Evergreen Mowing is a one-man operation that needed a jump on his competition. We’re proud to have provided individual, tailored solutions for every single one of ‘em.

TARGETED DESIGN FOR YOUR BUSINESS

Pathfinders: assisting youth and family welfare on the Mid North Coast Pathfinders operate a number of programs and services based in promoting youth and family welfare. We currently have a direct impact on more than 90,000 people through our services and focused vaughan tuition programs, including family support, disability, homelessness services, youth services and child protection services. nders’ programs How long have you been running yourPathfi business? can be found in Armidale, Tamworth, Tenterfield, Glen Innes, Moree, Inverell, Kempsey, Port Macquarie, Taree and Coffs Harbour. Pathfinders programs and services include: • Youth social, recreational and vocational centres and programs • Refuge and supported accommodation services to young people • Regional youth centre providing vocational skills development, education, and accreditation • Full-time residential support for young people in out-of-home-care • Youth drop-in support centre • Child protection and family referral services • Long-term residential out-of-home-care services and foster care programs for children and young people • Parenting and family strengthening workshops and information sessions • Family preservation services, supervised contact, therapeutic camps/activities and after care services to vulnerable children, young people and their families

sam ??

Pathfinders aims to improve the quality of life and well-being for each individual that comes in contact with one of our services, whilst also benefitting the larger communities we work within. For more information on our Family Referral Service in Coffs Harbour, contact 1800 758 589.

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WEBSITEDESIGNPRINTDESIGN WEBSITEDESIGNPRINTDESIGN LOGODESIGNBRANDDESIGN LOGODESIGNBRANDDESIGN BOOKDESIGNCOPYWRITING BOOKDESIGNCOPYWRITING

call sam and nanette

6658 7666 sasocreative.com.au

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vau How

blackboard special: Roasted King Pork Cutlet with roasted root vegetable & mustard sauce from spinifex restaurant

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

22 coffs coast focus.

horizons restaurant & bar Try Our New Dinner Menu After the craziness of the school holidays, Horizons Restaurant and Bar at Opal Cove Resort is back to normal with its new à la carte menu featuring modern Australian cuisine. The creative menu takes full advantage of the region’s freshest produce and seafood. Why not try a cheese plate on the terrace with one our many boutique beers! Join us for lunch! THE OC LUNCH DEAL Enjoy a glass house wine, domestic beer or soft drink, your meal and espresso or tea at Horizons Restaurant & Bar overlooking the pool and taking in the coastal views. Guests are able to dine alfresco on the terrace or in air conditioned comfort, all for $23.50pp. 11:30am - 2:30pm, 7 days. Bookings preferred.

Fishos Seafood Bar & Grill “The best view in town” NEW MENU IS FINALLY HERE. Now that the holiday season is over and done with, it’s time to launch our new menu for 2015. Multi award winning head chef Sandy Phillips and his kitchen team have some very exciting new dishes and a tasty spin on some old favourites also. A separate menu for lunch and dinner, some great new vegetarian options and kids’ menu. For those wanting to try something different, the dukkah spiced Barramundi, the duck confit or the warm crocodile salad are dishes not to be missed. FANTASTIC NEW FISHOS SIGNATURE SEAFOOD PLATTER (24 hours’ notice) Weekly Specials: $7.50 weekday lunchtime meals Wed - Ribs & Trivia Thur - Surf & Turf Fri - 80 meat tray raffles.

Head Chef Sandy Phillips. Clinton Hunter Head Chef.

Opal Cove Resort, Opal Boulevard, Coffs Harbour 6651 0510 www.opalcove.com

1 Jordan Esplanade, Coffs Harbour 6652 1534 www.coffsfishos.com.au

Breakfast, lunch and dinner - 7 days a week. Bookings recommended.

7 days for lunch and dinner from 11:30am and 5:30pm and breakfast Wednesday and Sunday from 7:30am.

morfish café

finz on the beach

Morfish - more than just great fish! Salads, pastas, burgers, all day breakfast, great coffee and, of course, delicious seafood! All meals are cooked to order. Our sauces and dressings are made on the premises and are gluten free, so most dietary requirements are catered for. We also have a selection of cakes which are complemented by our locally roasted coffee. Drop in and let our chefs cook a delicious meal for you, or just unwind with your favourite coffee and cake.

Summer brings with it longer days, warmer nights, more social events and time with family ... at Aanuka Beach Resort it also brings an exciting new summer menu designed to encompass all that is summer.

Main Entrance Park Beach Plaza, Coffs Harbour 6652 8588 7 days. Mon - Wed & Fri - 7am - 5pm, Thurs -7am -7pm, Sat - 7am - 4:30pm, and Sun - 7:30- 3:30pm.

Select from share plates, summer sliders with seasonal toppings, delicious fresh local seafood and light snacks; enjoy all this on our Casay decks with a cocktail or glass of wine matched to your dish. Owners David & Jayne Hagarty.

The Casay Bar & Restaurant is open 7 days a week; please call Aanuka Beach Resort (02) 6652 7555 to make a reservation, or book online with us at www.dimmi.com.au.

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

coffs coast focus.

pasfields restaurant BAr deck Spoil your Valentine @ Pasfields, Sat, Feb 14th in the stunning setting high on the hill @ Paradise Palms. Lunch: 1, 2 or 3 course options from the Valentine’s Menu or the Sensational Seafood Platter for two: $220. Pre-order platters by Wed prior; a $50 deposit is required. Take home a free memento photo from your date. Pasfields emanates romance … limited places. Bookings essential. Only 20 bookings per time slot; book now! Having a special occasion in 2015? Let Pasfields make it one to remember. Weekends booking out fast: admin@pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

the hoey moey

See our new hours below. Functions available anytime.

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. Bring the family down for an affordable and nutritious dinner. Choose from our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS from Monday to Sunday or if you prefer something a little more fancy, you can’t go past our Daily Blackboard Specials.

Head Chef David Ricketts.

Don’t miss! DONAVON FRANKENREITER performing LIVE on April 1st from 9pm. It will be a night to be remembered - it’s where you’d rather be!

Chef Kim Robson.

675 Pacific Highway, Korora 6653 7710 www.pasfieldsrestaurant.com.au

84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au 7 days. Mon - Thurs and Sun: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri and Sat: 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 8:30pm.

Tues – Thurs from 5pm; Fri & Sat from midday. (large functions anytime).

Spinifex Restaurant Northern New South Wales seafood and freshwater fish is among the finest you’ll ever tuck in to. Coffs Harbour is blessed with some of the most biodiverse marine habitats and inland waters on Earth, providing a bounty of unique fresh flavours. At the Coast Hotel you can treat your tastebuds to fresh Wooli oysters, soft shell crab, grilled Atlantic salmon and a wide selection of popular fish dishes when in season. Also on the menu this month is our delicious Pork Cutlets and Surf & Turf for those big appetites or our $12.50 daily specials 7 days a week.

Surf Club Restaurant & Bar

Head Chef Craig Clarke.

Coast Hotel, 2 Moonee St, Coffs Harbour 6652 3007 www.coasthotel.com.au Lunch: 12pm - 2:30pm. Dinner: 6pm - 9pm.

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Our new Pancake Bar available 7am until 11am each day. Sticky Date - warm stewed dates, butterscotch sauce. Passionfruit, Almond and Strawberry - toasted almonds, fresh strawberries, passionfruit glaze. White Chocolate and Macadamia Nut - with warm chocolate sauce, toasted macadamia nuts, toasted coconut. Apple Cinnamon - with warm stewed apples and cinnamon yoghurt. Forest Berry and Mango - with warm mixed berries, mango coulis. Banana and Honeycomb - with grilled banana, house made butterscotch sauce and crisp honeycomb. All with freshly whipped cream. Weddings, conferences, parties by appointment.

Inside the Coffs Harbour Surf Life Saving Club, Surf Club Road, Park Beach, Coffs Harbour 6652 9870 www.surfclubparkbeach.com Surf Club Restaurant and Bar is open 7 days a week for breakfast and lunch.

Head Chef & Co-Owner Matt Donovan.

Confit and rolled lamb belly, spiced pea puree, lentils, black rice, preserved lemon, lamb jus.

flooded gums restaurant

café o.p 81 Friday, the most challenging day of the week, so much anticipation for the weekend’s plans but stuck at work trying to finish the impossible; we can make impossible, possible. Every Friday at O.P 81 is “Doughnut Friday”. We get in early to cook doughnuts from scratch; once delicately golden we sandwich them with our home made mixed berry jam so it just oozes out deliciously and dust them with vanilla sugar. So fix this Friday with a takeaway coffee and doughnut on your way to work. Also serving breakfast and lunch from 7am 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

Let Executive Chef Darren Ryan and Head Chef Michael Urquhart, recent winner of the AHA NSW “Chef Rising Star award”, delight you with the Flooded Gums summer menu. There is no better place to be when the sun goes down than the Flooded Gums Restaurant, as it transforms into an intimate fine dining restaurant. Flooded Gums is the only property in regional NSW to have received the “1 Glass” award Wine Spectator Magazine Wine List of the Year Awards. The restaurant offers a wine list which features age release and current vintages from acclaimed producers in the greatest regions, ensuring limitless potential for serious food and wine matching.

Head Chef Michael Urquhart.

Come visit the team at café o.p 81

North Bonville Road, Bonville 6653 4002 www.bonvillegolf.com.au

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011

Open 7 days; bookings essential.

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

with Joel McCulla from Zulu’s

AT ’ S I N

FIGS

With February being all about love, why not get into the fruit of love itself! The original fruit of modesty and passion, providing its leaves to clad naked pictures and statues world wide, the fig has been a part of society since biblical times.

zulu's restaurant & bar It’s happening again: the Zulu’s Tastes of Love Valentine’s Degustation Dinner! This year we’re going all out in preparing a unique Valentine’s experience unlike any held here before, and that’s saying something. At $110 per couple for food, and $180 per couple to include matching beverages, you’ll want to book now or you may miss out (places limited). Head Chef Joel McCulla.

More commonly found dried and preserved, the fresh fig is all too often underused for its delicate and velvety texture. This having been said, its phenomenal aroma once bitten, and the smooth grain of its fruity centre, make it the perfect accompaniment to a tasty cheese platter, or dip it in some silky dark chocolate for something extra special. Particularly nice when shared between two people ... sharing bites ... you know ... romantic like (just saying).

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

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

coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

MICHAEL KING

MATT DONOVAN SURF CLUB RESTAURANT & BAR

recipe

Tomato & Bocconcini Salad Ingredients Dresssing 1 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted 1 tablespoon of rinsed baby capers ½ red onion, finely chopped ¼ bunch of flat leaf parsley The juice and zest of 1 medium sized lemon ½ cup extra virgin olive oil Salad 4 big juicy ripe tomatoes 2 balls of bocconcini (baby mozzarella) 1 packed cup of young sweet basil leaves Cracked black pepper to taste

The dish was inspired by the classic Italian salad Insalta Caprese, and by the abundance of sweet, ripe, juicy tomatoes around the Coffs Coast this time of year. I made it for a cooking course I ran recently, and let me tell you, there were some serious tongue-gasms going down! Not only will this salad bring pleasure to the tongue and eyes, but also the body - it’s super healthy too. Give it a go, trust me - you won’t regret it.

Method Firstly, make the dressing by adding all of the ingredients to a food processor and blend until all the ingredients are well mixed - but don’t blend it until the dressing becomes a pulp - it’s nice to leave it a little chunky. If you don’t have a food processor, you can easily still make this dressing by chopping all the ingredients by hand - I even sometimes prefer to make it this way! Now to the salad: take the eyes out of the tomatoes, finely slice them into circles and lay out flat across a platter. Scatter the basil leaves across the tomatoes then roughly and evenly tear the bocconcini over the top. Finish spooning the olive dressing all over the salad and a crack of pepper, and Bob’s ya uncle - a perfect summer salad to take to your next dinner party or BBQ! 26 coffs coast focus.

att, you're a legendary chef around town. What do you love the most about cooking in this wonderful part of the

Anyone wanting a party or wedding reception for between 60 and 200 people. The venue is totally private and very unique,

with absolute ocean views. We also have world? a private purpose built conference room Thank you! The view from our restaurant available Monday to Friday. is second to none, and having a surf before When you're at home, what do you work to cool me down before a stressful but cook? enjoyable day leading our talented I have up to nine children to kitchen team. cook for most nights, so we Cue back to the y an m do a lot of barbecues, e us e beginning - what made W l ca lo nt re ffe roasts and Mexican! If di you want to become e lucky ar d an rs lie pp su I’m just cooking for a chef? le to enough to be ab uce. I was lucky my partner, Renae, od handpick our pr d enough to get an we love to grill some an There are more apprenticeship with l ca lo g fresh seafood with more amazin l al ed legendary Swiss uc od pr g a simple salad and a lines bein is such chef Martin Moser, glass (or two) of Pinot the time, which gion .” originally owner of an asset to our re Gris. Avanti Restaurant on the How important is fresh Jetty Strip and learned all local produce in the work the traditional techniques from that you do? him. I love restaurants and dining out Extremely. We use many different and the buzz of service. local suppliers and are lucky enough to Tell us something we wouldn't know

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about Surf Club Restaurant & Bar. We employ over 30 staff (some full-time, some casual) and hold over 30 wedding receptions each year. We serve takeaway, do offsite catering to offices and run a conference facility. We also contract Lauryn Nicholls of Social Media Butterfly to handle our online presence, which is of paramount importance these days. It is too big a job to do ourselves, and we find more and more people find us via our website and Facebook page. You also do functions. Tell us who this type of venue would appeal to?

be able to handpick our produce. There are more and more amazing local lines being produced all the time, which is such an asset to our region. It keeps our specials board alive and fresh. Some of our regulars don’t bother reading the menu, as they know our specials are always the best of the best that can be cooked on the day. Thank you, Melly, and we hope to see you up for lunch soon! SURF CLUB RESTAURANT & BAR 6652 9870.

UPCOMING SHOWS Rendezvous Restaurant Valentine’s Day at Rendezvous Restaurant, C.ex Coffs Saturday 14 February from 6pm; $59 per person.

Fantastic, fabulous, fun, February! Join us for all the fun of the theatre’s open day and touring kid’s theatre piece Lily Can’t Sleep through to the fabulous jazz spectacular of Rhonda Burchmore’s latest dazzling show.

The Rendezvous restaurant is a true fine dining experience. Rendezvous aims to excel on quality service, cuisine and the dining experience with every guest. It is our goal that our guests have a unique and memorable experience that provides them with a real epicurean culinary experience. This Valentine’s Day spoil your loved one with an exquisite three course menu prepared by our talented chefs for just $59 per person.

February at the Jetty Theatre - formidably favourable!

Entrees include a sumptuous Gravlax of Tasmanian Salmon, a beautiful roasted beetroot salad or Sesame Tempura prawns with Tahitian lime and ponzu dressing. On to the main course, which features fresh crusted loin of lamb served with white truffle mash, Sumac dusted chicken breast with sweet potato mash, steamed broccolini and champagne saffron sauce, or perhaps a 250 g prime grain fed porterhouse is more to your liking? For the sweet tooth, three tone chocolate panna cotta with coulis duo and caramel lattice, passionfruit citrus tart with honey mascarpone or a delightful pistachio brûlée.

Lily Can’t Sleep - Saturday 14 February. Mixing mega fun wordplay with fantastic physical comedy, this sweet and imaginative piece of theatre will take you on an adventure to a land where anything is possible. Created for children aged 3 - 8 years old and their families - packed with laughter for everyone.

If you appreciate innovative and exceptional fine cuisine, contact Rendezvous to make a reservation today, or visit our website: www.cex.com.au to view the full menu.

Theatre Open Day and Fundraiser - Sunday 8 February. It’s your theatre - come along and enjoy it! Be entertained with films, live performances and theatre tours. Learn what’s happening in community theatre and meet the performers. Join the fun of dress ups, face painting, stalls, and tasty refreshments and much, more on the day!

Rhonda Burchmore - Saturday 28 February. Sophisticated Ladies of Jazz, the latest stage show from Australia’s glamour girl of song, Rhonda Burchmore, is a tantalising feast of the songs of the greatest American jazz divas of all time: Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Julie London and Rosemary Clooney, backed by a jazz trio comprising some of Australia’s finest jazz musicians. See www.jettytheatre.com for further details and ticket bookings, visit or call the box office, noon – 4pm, Tues to Fri (02) 6652 8088. An Association of Coffs Community Theatre Societies initiative.

THEATRE OPEN DAY LILY CAN’T SLEEP & FUNDRAISER Fun and imaginative theatre

It’s your theatre…come and enjoy it! All proceeds to the JMT Trust Fund.

Sunday 8 February 10am-3pm

for 3 to 8 year olds.

Saturday 14 February 10am & 12pm 24th INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

FLiCKER FEST 2015

RHONDA BURCHMORE

Sophisticated Ladies of Jazz

embraceable… “ Totally larger than life. ”

SYDNEY MORNING HERALD

Saturday 28 February 2pm & 8pm

FLICKERFEST 2015

Australia’s most respected short film festival is back in Coffs!

Friday 13 & Saturday 14 March 8pm Proudly supported by

Box office hours Tuesday to Friday 12 noon – 4pm jettytheatre.com | phone 02 6652 8088 email: jetty.theatre@chcc.nsw.gov.au facebook.com/jettymemorialtheatre 337 Harbour Drive Coffs Harbour

coffs coast focus. JMT_Focus_Graphic_FEB_2105.indd 1

13/01/2015 9:33 pm

focus interview. focus interview. interview.

STANDLEY hair at the promenade I would like to thank one and all for all the amazing support and loyalty I have received from my great clients, friends and business associates. It has been a great first year in business for me. This is mostly due to wonderful clients, plenty of hard work, great staff and most importantly, fantastic hairstyles! Here at Hair at the Promenade, we pride ourselves on making your experience a very relaxing and pleasant way to spend your valuable down time. We are blessed with an amazing location with plenty of parking, loads of natural light and Coffs Creek to look at whilst your hair is being styled! We are open Monday to Friday from 8am â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;til late and pride ourselves on the great, fun and relaxed way we go about creating our hairstyles. I would like to welcome Hollie Gourley to the team. Hollie brings a wealth of experience and charm to the salon. Hollie has been off raising her family for a short time and is now back ready to share her many hairdressing skills and throw in an interesting chat whilst you are with her! We are situated in the Promenade at 321 Harbour Dr. Please call us on 6651 4228 to make an appointment. We look forward to another great year of fun and frivolity that hopefully doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go as quickly as the last year! See you soon, Michelle.

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COUNTRY SINGER/SONGWRITER JUSTIN STANDLEY REMAINS AS DOWN TO EARTH AND HUMBLE AS THE DAY HE FIRST STEPPED ON TO THE X FACTOR STAGE AND SANG TO MILLIONS OF AUSTRALIANS. HE WAS NOT COMPETING, BUT SENDING A HEARTFELT PLEA TO HIS CHILDREN WITH WHOM HE'D LOST CONTACT AND HAD SPENT THE BEST PART OF 12 YEARS TRYING TO FIND ...

o-one could have anticipated the amazing series of events that would then unfold and would see Justin beat over 70,000 contestants to make the live finals of The X Factor Australia in 2012 and not only reconnect with his children, but also record a country album with award winning producer Lindsay Butler (OAM), tour nationally, walk the red carpet at the Golden Guitars ... "I still wake up every morning and pinch myself!" Justin laughs. His performances and appearances on The X Factor, Today Tonight and numerous other radio and television programs has endeared him to millions of Australians. Justin, what was your childhood like growing up in Bundaberg? Are you from a musical family? Bundaberg was a magical place for me as a child. I remember the excitement of the burning cane fields, watching the cane trains, and it always seemed sunny and happy. My dad was a singer from Geraldton, WA. As a teenager and young adult, we sometimes performed as a father and son duo. I was greatly inspired by artists like Roy Orbison, The Everly Brothers, Buddy Holly, and many of the early rock and country artists ... You shot to fame as a Top 12 Finalist on the Australian X Factor in 2012 on a quest to find your children. What was that experience like? It's difficult to describe succinctly. Intense, adventurous, emotional,

exhausting, challenging ... I have so many amazing memories from my time on The X Factor. I was originally going to try and get on a show called Find My Family, but they'd stopped production. I'd been teaching a women's prison choir, and it was they who suggested I audition for The X Factor. Before The X Factor, I was a cleaner and taught a little bit of music - having a professional country music career never entered my mind. The best moment about being on The X Factor was when I received a call from my then 15 year old daughter, Charlotte, after she saw me on TV. It was the first time in 12 years that I'd been able to hear her voice. She'd been looking for me as well and had planned to audition for The X Factor that same year, but could not find someone to drive her to the audition (she lived in a remote, small town in WA). Soon after that, my older daughter, Ophelia, also made contact. They were the best moments. I felt like I'd won, and in all the right ways - I had. We're very close, and nothing will tear us apart again. You are about to release your new EP, Red Light, which has three TSA songwriting nominations. What have you written about on your EP? I draw inspiration from my loved ones and significant events, and I love a good yarn. I want my albums to take people on a journey but always to leave them uplifted. The EP has an Indigenous story song inspired by my great-grandmother (one of the Stolen Generation), there's a ghost-story with a stupidly high yodel (but it works ...), and there are a few catchy country songs, one of which is an arrangement

I wrote in Coffs Harbour of my favourite Stan Coster song, Return of the Stockman. I sang it for the first time in Coffs Harbour and Tracey Coster, Stan Coster's daughter, said it was the best version of her father's song she'd heard. I reckon you can't get much higher praise than that. You have said that you love Coffs Harbour and you're considering moving here - what do you enjoy the most about Coffs Coast? Coffs is a visually stunning part of the world. I've performed in and around Coffs, Sawtell, Grafton, Woolgoolga ... and generally speaking, the friendliest and most helpful people you'll ever meet live on the Coffs Coast. I still get so nervous before a show, but the audiences around Coffs have always been warm and appreciative. We are all excited to see you perform at Park Beach Bowls. What can we expect at your show? There'll be a tribute to Roy Orbison and maybe John Denver or Buddy Holly. I'll likely perform some comedy songs, one of which is also up for a TSA award. There'll be a healthy dose of fresh, original Australian country music and stories, a bit of yodelling (if no one's allergic to it) and a swag of other surprises. Thanks Justin.

the plug! Saturday 28th January, Park Beach Bowls Club, Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour. 6652 3622

FLIX IN THE STIX CommBank Flix in the Stix is regional Australia’s only film, music, comedy and arts festival. Coming into its fifth year, the 2015 tour will feature a brand new collection of short films curated by award winning actress Deborah Mailman. Deborah was the first Aboriginal actress to win the Australian Film Institute Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. She is well known for her roles in successful Australian drama series The Secret Life Of Us and Offspring, as well as films such as Bran Nue Dae and The Sapphires. “I’m thrilled to be part of Flix in the Stix and to bring together some of my favourite short films, filled with artists I love and respect and stories that are a good yarn. I’m so proud of

Australian drama and the many voices that create a vibrant tapestry of who we are. What better way to enjoy a night out under the stars than with a feast of film, food and great entertainment. Hope you enjoy.” As well as short films, CommBank Flix in the Stix will showcase live music by ARIA award winning artists My Friend the Chocolate Cake, and comedy from ARIA award winning threesome Tripod. We don’t think we could fit in more award winning features on the 2015 tour if we tried! Local gourmet food and beverages will be available, and each event is situated in a unique outdoor regional venue. For further information and to purchase tickets visit: www.flixinthestix.com.au

coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

ERNIE WUNDARRA CHILDREN’S SERVICES Ernie was born in Guyra, Northern NSW at a time when the lives of Aboriginal people were heavily controlled by the government policies of “assimilation”. His

mother was a part of the Stolen Generation, a woman who dedicated her life to keeping her family together. Growing up with eight sisters, Ernie was the man of the house! Today, Ernie works at Wundarra Children’s Services, where he provides residential care to children and young people who are removed from their families.

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ell us about where and how you grew up ... I was born in Guyra in Northern NSW, at a time when the lives of Aboriginal people were very heavily controlled by government policies of “assimilation”. However, the constant threat of “protection” (which basically meant that Aboriginal children could still be taken from their families without real cause) was still very real, both in the memories of my parents’ experiences and in reality. Due to the existence of these policies, I grew up in a number of different places, as my parents moved us frequently to keep us all together and safe. I lived most of my life and had my schooling in Armidale. When did you move to Coffs Harbour, and what brought you here? I moved to Coffs Harbour in1998 for a sea change. When I was a child, my family would visit Sawtell every year at Christmas time and I always planned to live on the coast. You have eight sisters and a brother. What was it like growing up in a household full of girls? It was pretty good actually. I have three older sisters and five younger sisters, in addition to my younger brother, so I guess I was a bit spoiled. Mum and the girls did my ironing, and I don’t remember ever having to do chores around the house. Although, I may have mowed the lawn on the odd occasion, but my role in the family was more the protector of my sisters. Your mother was part of the Stolen Generation. How much impact has that had on her life, you, and your family? My mother’s experience as one of the Stolen Generation has significantly influenced both my personal and professional life. My mother was taken from her family at Walcha Aboriginal Mission during her formative years as a very young child and was not able to return to her family and community until she was a young adult. When she returned, both her parents had died and her brothers and sisters were scattered around the county, and it took many years for her to find them and reconnect with them. The impact this had on my mother strongly affected both her feelings about herself and her child rearing practices. She felt a loss of identity and self-esteem, which she fought hard to overcome. The reason I started up my business was due to the history of people like my mother and the ongoing removal of Aboriginal children. I wanted to play a positive part in the experiences of these children and provide an alternative, culturally appropriate care environment. Your mother is a bit of an icon back in Armidale. Tell us about her and some of the achievements she has reached in her lifetime ... My mother had the rare ability to turn the negatives in her life into positives in the lives of others. Not only did she raise 10 children of her own, but she took in the homeless, abused and people that no one else cared about. She worked with youth and other Aboriginal offenders in the Aboriginal Circle Sentencing Program and Night Patrols and was nominated for and awarded the 2006 Justice Award from the NSW Law and Justice Foundation. She was an early activist at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy in Canberra and was also instrumental in the development of Aboriginal education and health programs and services in Armidale and across the Northern Tablelands. She was seen as a community leader by both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities in Armidale and across NSW. Many of the services and programs available to Aboriginal people in Armidale today are due to Mum’s

direct contribution and social underwent chemotherapy and three d te ar st activism within the community. major operations over two to three I on as The re ss ne si Your family was one of the years. Throughout this time I gained bu y m up y of or st hi e th first families in Australia a greater appreciation of my own to e was du mothe r y m e lik le to be assimilated back resilience and strength and was op pe removal in 1967. How did that and the ongoing ren. I fortunate to have the support of ild of Aboriginal ch experience shape you my family. Having cancer made me tive d to play a posi te an w and your family? look at life very differently than I riences part in the expe d We were actually moved did before. I appreciate the people an n re ild of these ch e, iv at rn under a government policy and opportunities I have in my life, te al an provide riate op pr ap of assimilation in 1963 to a and I try to surround myself with lly ra cultu t.” en nm ro vi brand new house in St Mary’s positive people. en re ca (Sydney). Prior to moving to Wundarra Children’s Services do Sydney, we lived in a tin shanty at wonderful work with young people, Rob Roy near Inverell. The place had no and on any given day we can find you there running water and a dirt floor that Mum used to giving back to the community … sweep out with a tea tree bush, but we had lots Wundarra Children’s Services is a service that provides of fun with a lot of freedom. My father was also residential care to children and young people who are given a job with the Council in St Mary’s as part of removed from their families and placed under the care our “assimilation”. Dad’s job was to empty the toilet cans and protection of the Minister for Family and Community into a truck parked out the front of houses. As you can Services. Services we provide include educational imagine, it was not a very pleasant job, and it was a whole opportunities, drug and alcohol counselling and sexual new experience for all of us. By 1966 we had already left assault counselling. We work in partnership with local our house in St Mary’s and travelled back up to Purfleet police, Juvenile Justice, Family and Community Services and Aboriginal Mission near Taree and then later to Uralla, local mental and medical health professionals and other before we finally settled in Armidale - where I grew up. Services like ours in Coffs. We also provide our services in You studied drama at the University of New England other areas across NSW, including the western and central in Armidale. Where has that led you over the years? western regions. Although I enjoyed studying drama at UNE in Armidale, I What are some of the challenges faced in your didn’t pursue this as a career. Along the way though, I got industry? to meet other Aboriginal actors and writers like Ernie Dingo, Providing care for such high needs children and young Justine Saunders and Oodgeroo Nunnucal (otherwise people can be very challenging, but also very rewarding. known as Kath Walker). I performed in the stage plays Cake Funding issues, constantly seeking qualified staff, lack of Man and Capricornia and really enjoyed acting and meeting resources and working within the policies and procedures people in the industry. Prior to my study at UNE, I’d never across a range of government partners can be difficult done any acting, and this experience really gave me a lot of and sometimes confusing. It can also be difficult working confidence. with other offices, as they all have different practices and You have three very talented daughters. Why are you expectations. Wundarra always provides a comprehensive most proud of them? service and are able to meet the needs of clients. I have three beautiful daughters. My eldest daughter What do you like about living on the Coffs Coast? graduated from university as a nurse, and my two younger My father was a Dhungutti/Biripai man from the NSW daughters are twins. One is a very talented athlete and the Mid North Coast, and I have always had an affinity with other is equally talented in the arts and dance. coastal living. My daughters and granddaughters were born Tell us about your experience with cancer ... and raised here, and we can’t imagine living anywhere else. I was diagnosed with bowel, lung and liver cancer and Thanks Ernie.

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coffs coast focus.

focus

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focusinterview.

great

Apps populate the screens of our smartphones and are an essential part of daily life. Banking, weather, games, maps, music, photos, tickets. No matter what the task, you can bet “there’s an app for that”.

he popularity and potential of this technology has provided inspiration for Coffs Coast locals Jay Whitmore and Russell Pell to start Great Apes Media, a digital studio that specialises in app development and mobile digital solutions. Following the familiar path that many locals have taken before them, that begins with leaving the area to pursue further studies post high school and better opportunities for work. Several years of mandatory globetrotting entailed, before the gravitational pull of the Mid North Coast reined them back in. Focus recently caught up with the duo at their studio to get the lowdown on their plans for 2015. What is about the Mid North Coast that brings you back? Russell Pell: Weather, landscape and beaches are all amazing. I have a young family and it is the best place in the world to bring your kids up. Jay Whitmore: Like Russell says, it’s a beautiful part of the world - Bush, beaches, wonderful people – and in this day and age you can work from anywhere, it’s perfect. Both of you moved away and worked in Sydney, what were some of the highlights of your time there? JW: Doing the hard yards in the digital industry in Sydney was great for making a lot of friends and contacts. I was lucky enough to work on a few award winning digital projects for clients such as Cascade Breweries. This project won an AIMIA (Australian Interactive

34 coffs coast focus.

Media Industry Award) for best Advertising, FWA, Two IAB awards, and picked up a Canne Lion at the Canne Creative Festival. Another favourite was the “Target Nuclear Weapons for the Red Cross”. The site has over It is a no brainer if you have a website it must 1 million sign ups and was listed as an Honoree be mobile friendly, responsive. at the prestigious Webby Awards. In a perfect world companies that can afford RP: Working as a commercial photographer it have both a responsive website and a native mainly shooting still life for fashion magazines app. Vogue, Marie Claire, Instyle etc. JW: Obviously an app is not the solution It was a great time but the city grinds you for every situation. It’s about tailoring the end down and once you have children it doesn’t product to the individual business – if make sense to live there anymore, plus an app isn’t the ideal solution the surf is crowded. we make that as clear How does a native app as possible and steer possess an advantage over It’s just exciting businesses in the right to see things a traditional website? direction. ch a progressing at su day RP: They provide a How can apps y rapid pace - ever curated fluid experience provide solutions s rm atfo there are new pl for the user, there is more to industries? e th in ts or advancemen e can engagement and less JW: Apps w at technology th re clutter. designed for specific tu fu to in implement Statistics show the purposes can help .” projects majority of smartphone solve mundane tasks. users spend their time using native apps and everyone owns a Example a waiter taking smartphone. an order on a smart device, the JW: Native apps provides users with unique order automatically shows up on a functionality and speed that can’t be achieved screen in the kitchen for the chef, also on with a responsive website. a screen for the barista and the bill is ready at Building a native app means just that, the press of a button. designing it so it works on a specific device. Less duplication and less time wasted Why would a company or brand need its by staff, making the process efficient and own app or a responsive website? streamlined. RP: Mobile is where your clients are, you RP: We are interested in talking and need to be there and get it right. potentially partnering with people from within

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industries that can see opportunities for apps to be created that will solve an existing problem, that an outsider may not be aware of. What projects have you worked on with local clients? RP: We were lucky enough to work with Coffs Coast Marketing on their recent travel guide and taking their 101 campaign from print to digital. JW: Building apps that worked across several platforms. We were stoked to work directly with Oneill wetsuits – building a digital catalogue to streamline their wholesale ordering system, as well as some in-store interactive displays to help customers find the right products. We have quite a few exciting local projects under development at the moment. What excites you about the future in mobile? RP: For me it is the advent of everything becoming connected from your home and car to monitoring your health via a smart watch. JW: It’s just exciting to see things progressing at such a rapid pace – every day there is new platforms or advancements in the technology that we can implement into future projects. Thanks guys and good luck for 2015 Contact Details 0419 29 25 28 info@greatapes.com.au greatapes.com.au

coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

Coffs Harbour Dog Training Club has been based in Coffs Harbour for over 20 years. The club is run by volunteer members and

PHOTO CREDIT: Pohler photography

is open to any members of the community who wish to train their dog. Throughout the year the club holds many statewide and national competitions. The dog trainers use reward based techniques, with food, toys or game play and teach socialisation with other people and dogs in a safe setting.

dog training ow did you first get involved with Coffs Harbour Dog Training, and what is the history behind the club? I joined the club five years ago when I was interested in training my dog in agility. The club has been going for over 20 years, providing a service to our community in training dogs to be good canine companions. We are part of Dogs NSW and run obedience trials three times a year. We moved to Rex Hardaker Oval about 10 years ago, where we hold our training classes, workshops and competitions. What are the aims of the club? We assist people to train their dogs and participate in the sport of obedience and agility. We also provide a service to the Coffs Harbour community and their dogs by helping create well socialised and well behaved pets. What is RallyO, and how is it different? RallyO is a competitive sport for people and their dogs. It is a discipline that shows teamwork between people and their dogs for doing the required tasks at each station. The owner is able to praise the dog during RallyO, whereas other obedience trials are more regimented, with the dog working without encouragement but still as part of a team

36 coffs coast focus.

effort. In your opinion, how important is it to have your dog trained? It is very important, as the dog needs to be under control in the community setting and also needs to learn to act safely around people. le The owner is ab Legislation is also g do e th se ai to pr becoming more hereas during RallyO, w ials are onerous, and owners tr e other obedienc w ith of dogs must be Dog of the Year at this d, te en more regim responsible for the t ou trial. with the dog working t still dogs’ actions or suffer How many t bu encouragemen .” rt fo the legal consequences. ef instructors does as part of a team There is an event in the club have? Can March; where will it instructors obtain take place, and what is formal qualifications? involved? The club has about ten trainers The trial will be held at Rex Hardaker at different levels of training and grounds in Toormina on the 13th and 14th experience. Formal courses have been held March. It involves judges and competitors by Dogs NSW over the years, but now more from all over NSW as well as interstate, who formal qualifications are becoming available, stay for the weekend and compete in the such as Delta Dog Training Certificate 4. disciplines of agility, jumping, obedience and How do the official body, Dogs NSW, RallyO. support the work of your club? All our volunteers work hard all weekend They assist with insurance, training, advice setting up equipment, running the trial and and participation in ongoing issues such as assisting by the rings. input to government bodies on changing dog We also run one of the Royal Qualifying laws. They also provide the basis and rules for Heats (RQH) for the NSW Champion Agility all trials to be run in NSW.

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How many lessons does a dog need to become trained? This varies with the breed and type of training that is required and on the intelligence of the dog and how the person who owns the dog can relate to the dog. We have the first basic course, “Canine College of eight weeks, which provides knowledge to the owner on how to train their dog with basic commands (sit, stay, come) and socialisation with other dogs. Sometimes if a dog has a behavioural issue, we refer them to an expert for one on one training. What are the basic principles when training a dog? We base our training on reward based training techniques, with food, toys or a game play and teach socialisation with other people and dogs in a safe setting. Interview with Lisa Hagelstein.

COF FS COA ST

David Moore Photography

wedding feature.

PHOTOGRAPHY: David Moore CO F FS COA ST

YOKO & JOnathon TICLI surf club restaurant & bar How did you guys meet? We met at a bar named Captain Kangaroo in Osaka, Japan. Jono says that he saw me walking in tight jeans, then he came to say hi! Jono happened to be playing beach volleyball at the beach near where I lived. So we started chatting and exchanged our numbers. Why did you chose Surf Club Restaurant & Bar as the reception venue? We wanted to get married on a beautiful beach on the Coffs Coast; it made sense to us, as this is where Jono grew up. I’m Japanese, so we really wanted an Australian style wedding! Australian weddings are totally different from Japanese weddings. The Surf Club has one of the best beaches in the world, with very easy access for our guests to travel to.

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How did you plan your special day, and how did Surf Club Restaurant and Bar help in making your wedding day perfect? We booked the Surf Club about 10 months prior, and Nicole gave us a wedding kit straight away, so we went through the menu and made decisions on how we would like to run the night ... Ten months allowed enough time to organise decorating the room, choosing our wedding cake, DJs, alcohol, celebrant, photographer, my dress and the suit ... The bar manager was accommodating and organised Japanese plum wine for our guests to experience. You had quite a big wedding ... Often when you have big weddings there is a risk the food won’t be “bang on”. How did you find Surf Club Restaurant and Bar in handling the quantity? Was it still

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anted to

We w quality? Our theme suited a get married on We were impressed the venue perfectly, e th on beautiful beach e that children were fed because everything ad m Coffs Co ast; it first, then followed looked nice and is is th as , sense to us I’m . entrees and mains. The up vibrant in contrast to ew gr no where Jo ally re e main meals were exthe beach, sand, my w so , se ne Japa alian tremely impressive, and ivory wedding dress, wanted an Austr ” ! ng many of our guests were and people’s tanned style weddi discussing the quality of the skin. food. The timing of the meals What advice would was perfect. We had enough you offer to others who time in between entree and mains to were planning to have their speak to our guests. wedding reception at Surf Club Did you have a theme, and how did Restaurant and Bar? that tie in to the stunning Surf Club If you want to get married on a beach, walk Restaurant and Bar scenery as a venue? around then see different spots. My wedding theme colour was coral pink, At last, just go for it! Our wedding and our and my bouquet had beautiful different coreception were so fantastic! It was just aweloured roses in apricot, pink, orange and ivory. some; we really loved it!

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Mid North Coast Weddings

ell us about Mid North Coast Weddings and the upcoming Expo.

The recently relaunched Mid North Coast Weddings encompasses the revitalised Mid North Coast Wedding Expo on 8 February, the smart and stylish Online Directory, the must-read blog for brides and a beautifully presented magazine - Edition One out now. We are the premier source of information, ideas and inspiration for brides and couples looking to get married in our beautiful region. We make it easy for brides to find what they need in a variety of formats. Our aim is to showcase the many fabulous providers we’ve partnered with and promote our region as the wedding destination of choice for locals and those from further afield. The upcoming Wedding Expo will be taking place on Sunday 8 February in the Auditorium at Port Macquarie Panthers between 11am

and 3pm. The Mid North Coast Weddings Expo is the region’s largest and longest running expo, attracting well over 300 brides and visitors each year. With over 60 of the region’s finest wedding vendors on hand, a spectacular fashion parade and the chance to win thousands of dollars in prizes, the expo is a must-visit for those planning their dream wedding on the Mid North Coast. Brides and grooms can meet with celebrants, venues, photographers, florists, caterers, hairdressers, entertainers and more from Forster to Coffs Harbour and everywhere in between. Entry is $5 and free for pensioners and children; tickets can be purchased at the door on the day or online via the link below. Mid North Coast Weddings Expo: Sunday 8 February 2015, 11am to 3pm, Port Macquarie Panthers, 1 Bay Street, Port Macquarie. www.midnorthcoastweddings.com/ mid-north-coast-weddings-expo

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BREAKFREE

Aanuka Beach RESORT BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort, located in Coffs Harbour on the Mid North Coast of NSW is the ideal venue for your special day. Situated on absolute beachfront and set amongst 15 acres of sub-tropical gardens, you have the option of a gorgeous beachside wedding on our manicured lawns or have your toes in the sand.

anuka has long been known as the perfect wedding destination for many couples over the years, incorporating the ideal beachfront or tropical garden setting, catering up to 150 guests for a seated reception and up to 220 for a cocktail style reception, access to a variety of accommodation, fantastic resort facilities and outstanding service by our events team. We do, however, have to turn many excited and eager couples away due to availability; but the team at Aanuka have raised the question with these couples …“What about a Winter Wedding?” We sat down and thought about what’s so great about the winter months on the Coffs coast, and this is what we think! 10 Reasons to have a Winter Wedding! During the cooler months of winter, weddings do tend to become less popular - but apart from a minor drop in temperature on the Coffs Coast, there’s absolutely no reason to avoid a Winter Wedding. The Team at Aanuka have ten reasons why you should plan a Winter Wedding! 1. Aanuka’s Winter Wedding Offer Book your wedding for 70+ adults during winter 2015 / 2016 (May - August) and receive over $1,500 in savings, along with offers from our highly recommended suppliers - Special Occasions and Peter Sechi Photography. Now that should be reason enough! But we 40 coffs coast focus.

will continue … 2. Lunchtime Weddings. Winter days are perfect for an early midmorning ceremony followed by an outdoor lunch reception! Enjoy a live band playing as you mingle with your guests, or go for a picnic theme wedding reception outdoors, colourful picnic rugs and pink lemonade The Coffs Co ast - the perfect way to has milder autiful spend a warm winter winters , with be ft day! blue skies and so fit ne breezes. So be 3. Rain, Rain go ason from the low se Away! dates of ce oi ch prices , A Bride’s biggest d book comfortable (and and suppliers an ng at fear - rain on her di ed W r te in W sweat-free) in the cooler ur yo wedding day. However, Aanuka! ” months. Don’t forget during winter, there is that old romantic gesture, less chance of rain than offering his coat to keep you there is during the popular warm ... oh, the romance! wedding months. Generally on the 7. Avoid Makeup Meltdowns! Coffs Coast, June - August brings the least The high humidity in the summer months rainfall. can often cause makeup to melt away before 4. Light is a Photographer’s Best Friend! your very eyes. A cooler winter day will leave Winter provides perfect lighting for your face looking fresh and flawless for longer. photographs; with soft light and early sunsets, 8. Volume and Frizz Free! you’ll have beautiful shots, with no squinting or Again, the humidity can wreak havoc on sunburn! your “Up-do”. During the winter months, your 5. Keep your Blooms Beautiful! luscious curls and volume will stay put all day Flowers last longer in the cooler weather, long, without the risk of the “Frizz Factor” come which means your floral arrangements will dinner time! survive the whole day and through the night. 6. Suit Up. 9. Two Summers in One Year! Always imagined your fiancé in a well cut You can plan your honeymoon in a gorgeous suit on your big day - he will certainly be more summery Northern Hemisphere location and

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enjoy two summers in one year - think of the tan! 10. Save the Date - Any Date! Unlike the spring/summer months, when dates are booked 12 - 18 months in advance, winter months open up more choices. Not only will suppliers have more availability in their winter schedule, but so too will your guests. The Coffs Coast has milder winters, with beautiful blue skies and soft breezes. So benefit from the low season prices, choice of dates and suppliers and book your Winter Wedding at Aanuka! Contact our events team for a current Wedding Kit and menu options, or to book a site inspection. BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort 11 Firman Drive, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 Email: aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au Phone: (02) 6652 7555

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Helping you with Event Decorating Danielle Perry Danielle Perry wants to make your day memorable and one of the best days of your life. Danielle has been doing weddings, naming days and renewal of vows for a good couple of years now, performing all types of different weddings, from ceremonies in Bali, Harley Davidson weddings, John Deer header weddings (the couple meet while harvesting wheat), fancy dressed weddings, and now there is talk of a wedding where the wedding party arrive by camels. Danielle wants a business where she can provide a one stop shop and she can point you in the right direction for catering, photography, music, or the chosen location. All you have to do is call her and let her know what it is you want. This creates less stress and more time for you to enjoy the process of becoming a bride. Feel free to call to a arrange a free appointment, as Danielle is very happy to discuss all aspects of your day.

Flight of The Doves Doves have long been a symbol of love, hope, peace and fulfilment. The purity and elegance of white doves in your wedding ceremony create an extraordinary and romantic ambience. As doves mate for life, your love and commitment are portrayed with a two dove release. When the doves take flight and circle above, they signify your new life journey together. Release Doves will cater to your wishes and liaise with your wedding celebrant and photographer. We have a variety of baskets and ornamental cages to suit your day. You may choose to hand release doves or release from their baskets. Release Doves breed, raise and train their own pure white doves. Doves are homing by nature and once released, return home to the comfort and warmth of their loft, where they feel safe, cared for and fed.

Delivering everything you need for events, parties, functions, promotions, dinners, weddings, sporting events and more. Caring, expert advice and solutions - FREE one-onone expert help with your planning needs - just ring us (02) 6658 0071, or email us: email@coffseventcentre.com. 30 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience supplying quality balloons to the Coffs Coast - 15 years in audio visual - 15 years in event presentation and decorating. Experts in our field, delivering personalised service. We are not just a website with a mobile number - we have a showroom and trained staff. WOW FUNCTIONS - event and promotion theme decorating. Weddings - ceremony and reception decorating. AV CORPORATE - PA Hire (best range), sound, lighting, projection and more. Video your event and stream it live to friends interstate and overseas. BALLOONS PLUS - everybody loves our balloons - the best quality in Coffs. The elegant decorative additions to add pizzazz to any event. Visit us at the Coffs Event Centre, 30 Lawson Crescent - it is best to ring first and make an appointment, so we can make time to show you around - (02) 6658 0071.

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All food is homemade; no commercial products are used.

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Catering for your Event Coffs Coast Event Catering is owned and operated by Annette Mavin. Annette has over 20 years of experience in all aspects of the hospitality industry, and this enables you to gain the benefits of her experience at your special event.

Mirror Image Weddings Mirror Image Weddings is the perfect solution for any couple getting married who are Kombi enthusiasts or prefer something a little out of the ordinary. We cater for weddings as far south as Port Macquarie and as far north as Byron Bay and all areas in between. Our purpose is to make the wedding party's trip as enjoyable as we can on this life changing adventure. We love driving for weddings; it's such a happy time, and we cater to the needs on the day and are open to suggestions. Nirvana and Mango are always noticed and bring smiles to those watching them cruise past. When the sun shines, their colours shine with it and on a cloudy day, they still shine as strong.

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Annette has a mobile kitchen, so catering at a venue of your choice is an option. Styles include but are not limited to the traditional, such as buffet, finger food, wedding breakfast, sit down menus or for something different, try Thai, Moroccan, Indian, Seafood, Mexican, a BBQ or even pizza. To make your life easy, we have a list of venues available to hire, as well as celebrants, DJs, decorators and more. Coffs Coast Event catering prices include all crockery, cutlery, napkins, food, service staff, equipment and utensils and hire of the mobile kitchen, so you know exactly what your costs will be for the day. As everyone has different tastes and budgets, we can design a menu to suit your special day. All food is homemade; no commercial products are used. We cater for special dietary requirements. Menus are available by either phoning Annette on 6653 6262 or by email: annettecook1@bigpond.com

Opal Cove Resort Congratulations on your Engagement. We know your wedding is the most important day of your life. This is why at Opal Cove Resort, we hold only one wedding per day. Couples can marry onsite at Opal Cove Resortâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spectacular outdoor and indoor ceremony locations. Capture the moment on your special day with amazing views featuring ocean, lagoon or garden backdrops. Opal Cove Resort boasts one of the most beautiful wedding venues on the coast. Our Opals room has natural lighting, with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Opal Cove Resort offers a selection of wedding packages to suit your budget, catering for intimate weddings of 20 guests up to ballroom events for 300 guests. Our dedicated Wedding Coordinator will guide you in making the most important day of your life stress free and memorable. With an idyllic location at Korora Bay in Coffs Harbour, luxury accommodation options, exquisite cuisine and quality service from a professional team, you and your guests may never want to leave!

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Beachstone Café

10 Year Celebration Starts Now

Looking for that unforgettable and unique venue for your special day? Located in the beautiful North Sapphire beach estate, you will find Beachstone Café the perfect setting for your memorable day!

minutes from the café, so your guests can

Surrounded by exceptional grounds as well as the stunning stretch of beach neighbouring the café, we can offer you the perfect location for your wedding. The beach and the park surrounding the café make it ideal for intimate beachfront weddings, with many picturesque spots for an unforgettable backdrop to your celebrations. Be sure not to forget the gorgeous headlands the Coffs Coast has to offer, including the Moonee Beach headland and Sapphire headland, which both offer stunning views for a truly magical setting for you to exchange your vows. Both of these locations are mere

delight both you and your guests.

make their way to the reception promptly and with ease! From the award winning architectural design to the excellent modern Australian cuisine, our venue is guaranteed to We have also just recently received our liquor license, which is just one more thing we are happy to take care of for you to ensure a stress-free, magical and memorable night for the newlyweds! We have a number of packages available, or can create something unique just for you! The venue is able to cater for up to 100 guests for a seated event and up to 130 guests for a canapé function. For further information, please contact us at: info@beachstonecafe.com.au

Eight plus years at their Coffs Harbour Jetty address and almost two years at their current City Centre location, 10 years owned and operated by a local who employs local staff. Tracey is a strong supporter of all local business: “Owning a small business is always a rollercoaster ride, as it has been for me over the past 10 years. With a rising trend towards internet shopping, as a community each and every one of us need to be more mindful of the impact this trend is creating on our local economy. We need to support each other in business - especially small local business.” Bridal labels include Alfred Angelo, Brides Desire, Q’NIQUE, and our newest bridal label, Stella York. For the maids and special occasions, Paco, Mr K, Alfred Angelo, Jadore, Tina Holy, Honey & Beau, Blue Juice, Lovers and Lounge.

Mr K, Laura K and Eve Hunter will ensure that Mum looks amazing in a beautifully crafted mother of the bride range. “We offer the largest selection of bridal, bridesmaids’ evening wear, cocktail dresses and a mother of the bride range that has been expanded to be the biggest and best in the area,” says Tracey Hickson of RSVP. Tracey and her staff promise personalised service for the bride, bridal party and guests, ensuring everyone is looked after. Appointments are preferred, especially on Saturdays, allowing her staff to offer quality one on one service. For alterations, RSVP recommend their talented seamstress, Donna, who has been altering bridal and formalwear for over 25 years and is available to meet with brides at the store at a mutually convenient time.

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with Barbara Wenman

MAKEUP AND MAKEOVER PLAN YOUR WEDDING TREATMENTS IN ADVANCE

DR JOHN WENMAN AND BARBARA WENMAN HAVE OVER 20 YEARSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; EXPERIENCE IN COSMETIC MEDICINE.

revolution in skin care rejuvenation has given us the ability to produce natural treatments with softer, more natural looking results. With the focus on skin care and in clinic treatments, it is possible to look years younger. La Fleur D'Alyse has introduced the revolutionary pHformula, Nimue and Vitry Skin Care ranges; these treatments prevent premature ageing by prolonging cellular life and successfully treat: ageing, hyperpigmentation, chronic redness and acne, rejuvenate, lift and tighten the skin and can eliminate the need for Microdermabrasion and Fraxel Laser. These peels can be a standalone treatment or can also be combined with Dermapen Medical Grade Needling, Mesotherapy and Regen platelet rich plasma (PRP) treatment to regenerate, rejuvenate, lift and tighten the skin, producing a non surgical facelift. New techniques in Injectable Dermal Fillers

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and Wrinkle Removing Injections allow for a softer, more natural effect, without a frozen puffy look. Full face and neck lift using Absorbable Threads is another way to create a natural face lift. Once the threads are inserted, they hold the lift in place until new collagen grows around them. Creating a fuller eyebrow takes the focus off crow's feet wrinkles around the eye. New MD formula lash and eyebrow conditioner successfully grows eye brows and eyelashes, and MD formula hair growth solution successfully treats baldness and thickens hair, producing a more youthful appearance; both are available at La Fleur D'Alyse Cosmetic Laser and Medispa. We offer a full range of beauty therapy treatments, waxing, spray tan, wedding and special occasion makeup. Our skilled makeup artists will help you to look stunning on your special day; in clinic or home visits available - our team will come to you. Free makeup trial for the wedding party,

includes mother of the bride and grandmother. The Mii makeup range is new to Australia and is available at La Fleur D'Alyse Cosmetic Laser and Medispa. It combines the finest ingredients, effortless application and unrivalled expertise to reveal natural beauty. We also recommend the Yaffa Zhav Wrinkle Filler Stick and the lntraceuticals Atoxelene wand to fill and smooth fine wrinkles and plump lips without injections. Why not have a pre-wedding spa treat with your bridesmaids and Mum? We have plenty of spa packages for couples and groups and also for the groom and his support team. We offer a full bridal plan beginning 12 months before and up to your special day. We can help you plan your treatments to have you at your most radiant.

In skilled hands, cosmetic treatments and clever use of makeup can turn back the hands of time and create natural looking results. La Fleur D'Alyse's unique combination of treatments and over 20 yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience in Cosmetic Medicine allows us to create a programme to produce a more youthful you, with very little trauma or downtime. Book a free consultation or one of our Makeup and Skin Care Classes. Cost of class is redeemable off makeup purchase on the day of class only.

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BONVILLE GOLF RESORT Recently announced as the Best Wedding Ceremony Venue and the best Wedding Resort Reception Venue in New South Wales by the Australian Bridal Industry Academy Awards for Excellence, Bonville Golf Resort is the perfect destination for your perfect day. A variety of indoor and outdoor ceremony locations and reception venues allows Bonville to cater for a wide range of styles and budgets.

THE COMPLETE WEDDING EXPERIENCE

onville Golf Resort provides the complete Bonville Golf Resort continues to be a leader in the wedding experience. We can guide you wedding and catering industry, after being awarded through any decision you need to make Wedding Caterer of the Year as well as Overall Caterer and can tailor a package to suit your of the Year by the Northern NSW Restaurant and personal requirements. From the time Catering Awards for Excellence. The wedding and of the initial booking to the morning after the event, function menus are a reflection of the food served in Bonville’s sales team and function staff will ensure that The Flooded Gums Restaurant by Head Chef Michael every bride and groom’s special day is effortless. Urquhart (formerly of No. 2 Oak Street), with dishes Our breathtaking ceremony locations will create from the à la carte dinner menu crossing over to the the perfect setting for you to say, “I do”. The tranquil wedding and function menus. rainforest setting is idyllic for an outdoor ceremony Bonville’s 30 accommodation rooms overlook the in natural surroundings, or the picturesque 1st hole, first fairway, ensuring that your guests don’t have far 17th hole or Terrace Lawn to take in the stunning to travel to get a good night’s sleep. beauty of the golf course and gardens. For more information on having your wedding at Bonville Golf Resort also offers 5 unique reception NSW’s most awarded wedding venue, phone venues that cater for all sized weddings. From Stephanie Kesby on (02) 6653 4002, the smaller intimate receptions held in the or visit www.bonvillegolf.com.au atrium style Gallery, for 30 guests, to the Classic Room seating up to 150 From the guests comfortably, both on the e smaller intimat e 1st floor of the Clubhouse. The th in ld receptions he Classic Room is a private, spacious lery, for atrium style Gal as sic Cl venue surrounded on two sides 30 guests , to the to 150 up g with large Queenslander style in at se Room ly, ab rt verandahs which overlook the guests comfo or of flo t 1s e beautiful award winning golf both on th ” e. us ho ub course, gardens and surrounds. For the Cl something a little different, Bonville offers the Flooded Gums Restaurant and the Terrace Lawn, which are both located on the ground floor and offer unequalled views of Bonville’s 18th fairway, with the setting just metres from the golf course. The Flooded Gums Restaurant with bi-fold doors on all sides open onto the magnificent terrace for an alfresco setting. For a “one of a kind” wedding day, why not look at whisking your guests away to a secret marquee reception location on the golf course. The 17th hole offers a unique setting with a natural lake and lush gardens, which provides a romantic backdrop for your pre-dinner drinks and marquee reception.

“

Just wanted to say a massive thank you for everything you arranged for our wedding. We had the most amazing day! Everyone has commented what an amazing venue it was and how helpful and polite the staff were. Honestly, we couldn’t be happier.”

Heidi & Adam

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By Duncan Marchant, Coffs Coast Health Club

Coffs Coast

health CLUB COFFS HEALTH HUB PRIDE THEMSELVES ON PROVIDING HEAD TO TOE HEALTH!

hat is your diet and exercise background? Since my late teens I always had gym memberships, wherever I’ve lived, and have always enjoyed working out. My diet has let me down in the past, and like a lot of people, I find it easy to slip into bad habits. So where did it all go wrong? In early 2013 I made a big lifestyle change, including moving to Coffs Harbour, which has been great. My life became a lot less stressful, and with my new relaxed lifestyle I ate more and as a result, put on weight. I also went from living on my own, where I kept a rather bare pantry, to living with family, and found the additional naughty food temptations in the cupboard pretty irresistible. Then what motivated you to find a solution to the problem? My waistline - I was aware, despite all the exercise I was doing, that my waist measurement was putting me at risk of chronic disease and a sure indicator that I was carrying too much body fat. How did you go about making that positive change? I joined Healthy Inspirations, at Coffs Coast Health Club, which is a weight loss program incorporating diet, exercise and regular coaching. They were running a 12 week challenge, I felt this would give me a goal, and the support of the weight loss coaches and personal trainers would motivate me. I’m happy to say they did. Why did you select Kylie as your personal trainer, and what have you been doing together to achieve your goals? I met Kylie when I joined Coffs Coast Health Club, and from day one she has always been supportive and on hand to offer good advice.

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She trained me weekly during the 12 week challenge; during this time my fitness levels improved and so did my confidence in my physical abilities. She kept our sessions interesting by varying the exercises, and I’m looking forward to working with her in 2015 to further improve my fitness and achieve more goals. Kylie keeps me honest and accountable! What goals have you achieved so far? So far I’ve achieved my weight loss goals, decreased my body fat percentage (and waistline) and my BMI to healthy levels. I’m feeling a lot fitter, I am eating a much healthier diet, have more energy and sleep better. What are your goals for the future? I will be working hard to maintain the goals I have already achieved and would like to increase muscle mass. I’m also interested in learning more about nutrition to assist me in continuing to make healthy food choices. What is the most useful advice you could share? Stick with it - if you fall off the wagon one day, get back on it the next. Plan ahead with meals - I make 2 to 3 days’ lunches and snacks at a time and always make sure I have healthy food choices easily available. It’s not as hard as it sounds; in fact, it’s easier to prepare in bulk, as it saves time. Oh, and have a good support network train with a friend or attend a regular exercise class. That way if you are having a lazy day, your support will keep you on track and make you accountable. Thanks for sharing, Jo, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, drop in to see me at Coffs Coast Health Club. You can also contact our reception team on 6658 6222 or Kylie on 0414 257 086 to get started today.

our varied services allow us to offer great Healthcare to everyone. What can people expect once they arrive at your "hub"? They can expect to arrive and find themselves in our beautiful, welcoming space, where they can sit, relax and enjoy the ambience and be valued as a person, not a number. What has been the response so far to this new head to toe concept? The response to “head to toe Healthcare” has been very positive. Everyone has been very enthusiastic and interested in the concept of Head to Toe Healthcare and our space. How can people find out more? For more information on any of our services or general inquiries, contact our receptionist, Sarah, on 6699 2820, or find us on Facebook at the “Coffs Health Hub”. Our website will be up and running very soon. 6699 2820.

Editorial

Thank you for such a positive response to last month’s story about Jessica. This month we are catching up with Jo Edwards and her Personal Trainer Kylie Calder, to hear her inspiring story.

who works for the unique Kookaburra Veterinary Employment, is currently studying a Bachelor of Arts (Internet Communications) & was the 2014 Member of the Year at Coffs Coast Health Club.

G O T

JO EDWARDS INSPIRATIONAL FITNESS INTERVIEW

he new centre located on Orlando Street, Coffs Health Hub offers hypnotherapy, psychology, meditation, emotional tapping, naturopathy, massage, podiatry and Reiki, creating a one stop shop in achieving your health goals! Congratulations, Mark and Pam, on the opening of your new Coffs Health Hub. How are you settling into the Coffs community? After a month of really hard work, we are now open for business and enjoying the beautiful space we have created for our patients/clients. Can you remind us what services you offer? We offer a variety of services, including psychology, counselling, life coaching, massage, naturopathy hypnotherapy, Reiki and podiatry. Who can access your services? We offer head to toe Healthcare, and

A N Y

GREENER? THIS GREEN SMOOTHIE IS PACKED FULL OF GOODNESS, HEALTHY FATS, SUPER FOODS, AND LOADS OF GREEN DELICIOUSNESS.

1/4 avocado sprinkle chia seeds 1 cup coconut water small piece cucumber handful of baby spinach 2 kale leaves (stalks removed) teaspoon maca powder 1/4 tsp spirulina handful ice

blend together and enjoy *For a more fulfilling smoothie add a scoop of plain or vanilla protein powder.

S U R G I C A L FA C I A L R E J U V E N AT I O N

elanin, a pigment in the epidermis (superficial layer of skin) and Collagen, a protein “building block” in the dermis (deeper layer of skin) protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light and give strength and tone to the skin, respectively. With constant exposure and the wear and tear of daily living, skin ”ages“, showing up as thinner skin, with loss of bulk in the subcutaneous (deep to the skin) fat and muscle, resulting in drooping skin, affecting both appearance and function. The eyes are first affected, with stretched and droopy skin (blepharochalasia), prominent pockets of fat and often drooping off the upper eyelid (ptosis), causing difficulty in keeping the eyes open. The face shows the same changes. With skin drooping, the natural grooves in the face become more

prominent, and there is reduction in the volume and ”show” of the lips, which then appear thin. Due to skin thinning, the skin of the nose slides downwards, making the tip less prominent and showing the shape of the cartilages beneath the skin. The neck is a major concern to many, with drooping skin, accumulation of fat and the presence of longitudinal bands, due to the midline suppression of muscles. The brow/forehead is also affected, again with drooping of skin and downward displacement of eyebrows. SURGICAL CORRECTION Modern surgical methods, used in the correction of the above problems, are more restoration of function and appearance, rather than resection (removal) of skin and fat. In most of the affected areas, the skin and deeper tissues droop downwards, and correction is

achieved by restoring deeper tissues to their original positions and draping skin over the restored deeper tissue, with minimal skin resection. This gives a very natural facial-rejuvenation, compared to previous corrections, where the emphasis was on skintightening alone. The neck is slightly different in that it has a “corset“ made up of the two Platysma muscles, which hold the contents of the neck in position. When these muscles come apart in the midline the edges show up as longitudinal bands in the central neck. In a neck lift this corset is restored (corset platysmoplasty), in addition to the removal of fat and skin. Corrective and Restorative surgery is sometimes done in isolation, eg eyelid surgery, but often in combination, eg face and neck lift. Surgery gives good results, which last for many years.

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I love studying , improving my and knowledge base e th in my skills, so joyed en ly al tu end, I ac e part it – especially th ation m ir where my conf the ith w email arrived .” ed ss pa d news I ha

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FAY E W I F F E N H A S R E C E N T LY B E C O M E O U R R E G I O N ’ S O N LY H A N D T H E R A P I S T.

hear that you have recently achieved international recognition as a Certified Hand Therapist? Yes, making me the only hand therapist between Newcastle and the Gold Coast who has achieved such high level of qualification. This is a great bonus for residents of the Mid North Coast, as they can receive expert hand therapy treatment and advice locally, hence avoiding expensive and laborious trips to our capital cities. What is a Certified Hand Therapist? A Certified Hand Therapist is a physiotherapist or occupational therapist who has a minimum of five years clinical experience including 5,000 hours or more of direct practice in hand therapy, and then you must pass a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper limb (shoulder to hand) rehabilitation, set by an international organisation based in the USA. Well, you have been doing hand therapy for years now, Faye. The accreditation process must not have been that challenging? Far from it! You ask my poor husband, who gave up his weekends last year whilst I sat and studied. Over the years, the average pass rate is 50% only, so I took preparation very seriously. But I love studying, improving my knowledge base and my skills, so in the end, I actually enjoyed it - especially the part where my confirmation email arrived with the news I had passed. That must have been a buzz after all the build up? Yes, it arrived when I was at work, and I must admit I did come bouncing out of my room and did a little dance at reception, much to the entertainment of some clients sitting in the waiting room! You mentioned earlier that patients used to have to travel to Sydney or Brisbane for specialist hand therapy - why? The hand is very complex, and following any injury

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or surgery the correct follow-up management is just as vital as having the correct surgery/medical attention initially. Specialist hand surgeons will only refer their patients to hand therapists, not just any practising physio or occupational therapist, which is why they used to get them to travel sometimes twice weekly back to the capital cities for follow up therapy. But now this is not necessary? No. I now see patients who have had severed tendons to their fingers, amputations, multiple trauma or crush injuries, hand fractures, or those who have had elective surgery such as joint replacements in the fingers, nerve or tendon grafts etc here in Coffs Harbour, therefore saving people many dollars in travel as well as time away from family. These need close and expert follow-up, as moving their hand too early or too late depending on the condition can have a major effect on the eventual outcome. So what sort of “problems” would you normally see and treat in Hand Therapy? I also treat “tendon” problems around the wrist or elbow, which need correct assessment and then appropriate management. Unfortunately, a wrist brace is often placed on someone with a sore wrist who actually has a nerve compression problem – with the potential to aggravate their problem and prolong recovery. Pain around the elbow is often diagnosed as “tennis elbow”, when it is actually nerve based. I also see a lot of arthritic conditions impacting the hand. Arthritis of the thumb is a common problem that can have a huge impact on people’s independence, but can often be controlled with appropriate advice and management and sometimes bracing. Often those playing basketball or football dislocate their finger and “pop” it back in themselves? Yes, this does happen often. However, this often is accompanied with rupture of ligaments or a

fracture through the joint. It is advisable to always have any finger/thumb injury assessed at an early date. Delayed treatment of any injury can mean the difference between being able to manage the problem conservatively versus requiring surgery, avoid protracted splinting to correct a deformity, and a good outcome versus a poor one. So if someone’s problem was actually a nerve or it is coming from their neck - would they have to see someone else? No, the title Certified Hand Therapist just draws attention to our expertise and in-depth knowledge of anatomy and function of the hand, but that hand is attached to the rest of the arm and trunk! I still use all my skills and expertise of treating necks and shoulders that I always have. So anyone requiring it, still receives appropriate treatment for neck, thoracic spine or shoulder issues that may be the source of their pain. Any final advice? The old saying “a stitch in time saves nine” is certainly true when it comes to problems affecting the arm. Trauma to joints or ligaments respond better with the correct early care, thus avoiding protracted bracing. Early identification of any fracture can result in the difference from needing only conservative treatment versus surgery. And tendon problems are always easier to manage when treatment commences early on, rather than after it has become chronic. So don’t sit on it - come and get checked out early, so we can expedite and maximise your recovery. Two locations: 81 West High St, 175 Rose Ave, Coffs Harbour. 6651 1745

One Conscious Breath Yoga Studio

Coffs Harbour PODIATRY What causes Heel Pain? Heel pain is one of the most common conditions that Podiatrists treat. While there are many causes of heel pain, the majority are diagnosed as Plantar Fasciitis. However, proper diagnosis by the Podiatrist is important.

music in the gardens

What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar Fasciitis is a common overuse injury to the plantar fascial ligament on the bottom on the foot. It is usually the result of faulty foot mechanics (alignment, function and performance) that creates small micro tears where it joins the heel bone. It can be characterised by acute pain first thing in the morning and after sitting for a while. In some cases, calcium is deposited at the tear and is referred to as a Heel Spur. If left untreated, it can become chronic and very debilitating.

Mark your calendars!

How is Plantar Fasciitis Treated? Initial treatment for the pain can involve taping, rest, icing, and anti-inflammatory medication. However, the faulty foot mechanics needs to be examined and corrected for long term resolution of the condition. This may involve proper shoes, and orthotics. For the stubborn chronic cases, other therapies may be needed, like night splints, laser/ultrasound therapy, Cortisone injections, and in rare cases, surgery.

Only $5 per person or $10 per family. Plenty of amusement and fun activities await, with kids’ jumping castle, face painting and more.

If you feel you have heel pain, do not suffer any longer: call for a Podiatrist’s help or opinion by calling Coffs Harbour Podiatry today on 6651 3824!

CanDo Cancer Trust and Coffs Harbour’s best of the best music groups gear up for the Music in the Botanical Gardens on March 15, 2015, 10am to 4pm. Savour the clear autumn weather while listening to Coffs Harbour District Band, Coffs Harbour Orchestra, Coffs Harbour Regional Brass Band, Coffs Coast Pipes & Drums, Body & Soul, and many more.

Feel the music and enjoy a day out with your loved ones for a Sunday of fun, food and great entertainment. Bring your chairs and blankets to get comfortable. Just a reminder, this is an alcohol free event, but there will be plenty of food and refreshments. The event is sponsored by Coffs Coast Freemasons, Mike Blewitt Ford, Coles, Brakepoint Mechanical and Key Employment. For more information, go to www.candocancertrust.com.au or call 0419 227 498.

One Conscious Breath Yoga Studio is a peaceful sanctuary - a place to come and take time away from your busy life and practise some nourishing yoga, right in the heart of Coffs Harbour. We offer a range of different classes to suit everybody. From beginners’ yoga, to lunchtime yoga, to Vinyasa yoga, as well as private one on one and group yoga sessions. We really do have something for everyone! We absolutely love meeting new people and particularly love it when new students walk through our doors. There are no expectations. No prerequisites. No need for you to be able to touch your toes or balance on one leg. We simply invite you to give it a go and honour your body. Every body is different. Our highly qualified and friendly teachers will guide you through your practice and offer modifications and variations for all levels of experience. Have you always wanted to try yoga? Do you want to feel more relaxed, strong and centred? Then take advantage of our special New Year offer. Three Yoga Classes for just $20! (Offer ends 28th February.) This is a perfect opportunity to try out a few different classes and teachers and find the one that best suits your needs. We are centrally located in the City Boulevard Arcade opposite C.ex club. We look forward to seeing you on the mat!

coffs coast focus.

BEACHSIDE Radiology we care for you

COFFS shoulder and hand clinic

Finger InjuriesCommon Hand Injuries

inger injuries are often discounted as a “minor injury” when they first occur, and are self-managed ... that dislocated finger “popped back in” on the football field, that weakened painful thumb after a twisting strain, or the inability to bend the end finger joint (distal interphalangeal or DIP joint). Immediately following the injury or next morning, people often pump their hand open/closed saying, “No, no, I can move it - it’ll be OK”. Unfortunately, that is not always the case. Imagine a little finger you cannot fully flex - along with the ring finger, they are main stabilisers in any grip requiring power. See how much force you lose trying to use a hammer with your little pinkie out to the side! An index finger that you cannot fully straighten - now try putting your hand into your hip pocket! Or try tearing apart a piece of paper towelling how would you manage that if you could not bend the DIP joint of the index finger? Or if the MP joint (second joint in the thumb) was weak and buckling under the strain? Any of these are complications that can occur after “minor injuries” as described above, but all are avoidable if appropriate treatment is given in the early stages of the injury. A dislocation can be associated with a fracture

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Any injury to a finger, no matter how trivial it appears initially, has the potential to create long term problems.

that passes through the joint, or rupture of the volar plate - a cartilage plate that sits on the palm side of the joint and stops the joint from bending backwards i.e. it stabilises it. Even though you may be able to fully bend the finger the next day, without the proper follow-up the finger then becomes progressively stiffer as it heals, until exercises achieve nothing and more aggressive treatment is required. Sometimes a dynamic splint such as in the photo above needs to be individually fabricated to stretch the tight tissues around the joint and get it bending. Twisting the thumb can lead to tearing or rupture of the lateral (side) ligaments of the MP joint (the one alongside your web). Any pinch action then stresses this, and the lack of stability results in a weak, poor pinch strength and pain. Early immobilisation splinting can restore a strong thumb, but delay can result in permanent weakness or surgery. And finally being unable to bend the DIP joint is a sign of a ruptured long finger flexor tendon requiring surgery - and the longer you wait to repair that, the worse the outcome! So, use of RICE after any injury is appropriate - but then please come along and seek expert advice early to minimise any complications and maximise your recovery!

Since 2010, Beachside Radiology has been a pivotal part of the healthcare matrix for the Coffs Coast area. Why Beachside Radiology?

an X-ray and an Ultrasound, they will book considerate appointments to keep your time in the practice to a minimum.

• They BULK BILL. What’s more, they Bulk Bill ALL Medicare Claimable Services for everyone.

• They think of the little things - like an SMS to remind you of your appointment.

• They will see you sooner. Beachside Radiology understands the need to be seen and seen quicker. The examination type itself will determine just how quickly this can be, but the wait, if any, is truly minimal.

• They welcome any referral form. As long as it is a signed valid form, Beachside Radiology can accept it.

• They CARE for you. From the initial phone call to the welcome on the front desk and the cheerful but professional team of medical staff, the underlying feel is always one of treating you with care and respect. • They provide a comprehensive practice. This makes it easier for you to have multiple examinations at the same time; so if you need

• They are part of the community. From events like the upcoming Coffs Ocean Swims (March 29th) to local clubs, groups and community events, they actively support locals and local activities. Open Monday to Friday, they aim to get you seen quickly, at a time convenient to you. The team at Beachside Radiology would like to thank you for your support during 2014 and wish you the very best for 2015.

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

In the past, patients who required prescription lenses for distance vision were unable to wear “Wrap Type” sunglasses popular with their normal sighted peers as the curve on the lenses introduced significant distortion, especially for peripheral vision. Furthermore, the curve of the frame changed the power effect of the lens on the eye. As an innovative company, Shamir has developed a sophisticated range of computer-generated lenses which compensate for these factors. This provides prescription lens wearers with the opportunity to choose from a vastly expanded range of fashion sunglass frames. Shamir’s range includes technologically advanced, specialised prescription sun-wear lenses, including Attitude III® Sport and Fashion for Progressive lens wearers and Attitude® SV for single vision prescriptions. Attitude® lenses, which are designed to fit a range of large, small and wrap around frames, are available in a wide range of colours and impact resistant materials, including polarised and Drivewear. Attitude® sun lenses combine all the benefits of Shamir lenses with the added incorporation of specialised technology specific to the needs of sunglass wearers. For more information on Shamir and our range of lenses, please visit alanburrow.com.au and click on Shamir under Lenses.

we’re back Eileen and Michael recently returned from backpacking around S.E. Asia. After being away for most of last year, they are excited about establishing a Therapy Practice together in Coffs Harbour. Eileen - what do you do? I am a humanistic Psychologist, which means I believe in empowering people to feel better about themselves by connecting more with their strengths. I believe all human beings struggle at times, because life can be difficult. Anyone who is currently experiencing some distress, anxiety or depression can get a referral from a doctor to see me through Medicare and are therefore bulk billed or pay only a modest gap. Everyone is entitled to 10 sessions a year under Medicare. Michael - what do you do? I have been a Therapist for 15 years. I love to work with people to help them better understand themselves. I have been in a relationship for 28 years and believe that positive relationships are a key aspect to a happy life. I am an Intuitive Counsellor and work from a strength based approach, helping individuals to find ways to draw on their own abilities to work towards resolution. Individuals pay privately for me, so they don’t need to go through a doctor. See the Website for details.

coffs coast focus.

focusinterview.

MICHELLE H A Y W A R D

MOTHER OF THREE, MICHELLE HAYWARD HAS A PASSION FOR DECREASING THE WAITING LIST FOR ORGAN DONORS. RECENTLY COMPLETING HER HONOURS IN PSYCHOLOGY, SHE WROTE HER THESIS ON THIS FASCINATING TOPIC. HERE MICHELLE SHARES HER KNOWLEDGE WITH US, IN THE HOPE THAT IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE FOR EVEN JUST ONE PERSON ... AND FROM THIS INTERVIEW, PEOPLE THINK DIFFERENTLY ABOUT BECOMING AN ORGAN DONOR. HERE AT FOCUS, WE HOPE THAT THIS PIECE BEGINS TO OPEN THE DISCUSSION WITH YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS ABOUT ORGAN DONATION.

here are you originally from, and what brought you to Coffs Harbour? I was born in Sydney but moved several times during childhood, so I don’t feel like I’m originally from anywhere. I moved to Coffs Harbour with my now husband, Clinton, back in 1993, so that we could be closer to his family and our friends. When and why did you first become interested in organ donation? When my brother told me that he didn’t want to be a donor, I was surprised, as I felt he’d be a donor for sure. This started me thinking about the reasons why people may not want to be a donor and what might change their minds. When I first started studying psychology, I knew during my honours year I would need to pick a research topic. I wanted to do research that had the potential to benefit the community and that would help motivate me through the hard times during my studies. Dr Gail Moloney offered research into organ donation, so I knew that was exactly what I wanted to do. You have recently completed your studies in organ donation and wrote your thesis on this topic. What was the most profound thing your work highlighted? Firstly, that there are many barriers that people face when making and discussing their organ donation decision with their family. This can include but is not limited to lack of medically factual donation knowledge, fear of their decision being challenged, or lack of motivation and urgency to discuss. Secondly, many don’t realise your family ultimately make the final decision if your organs and tissue are to be donated posthumously. You may want to be an organ donor, but if you don’t have memorable and regular discussions with your family about your donation decision, they may not know your wishes. This potentially places them in a position where they have to make a decision on your behalf without the knowledge 52 coffs coast focus.

of what you may have wanted. What is organ and tissue donation? Organ and tissue donation involves removing organs A lot of people and tissues from someo think they are to one who has died (a y th al old or aren’t he donor) and transplantdonor, enough to be a ing them into someone d en m m family to suffer any but I reco who, in many cases, sion up ci de at th g avin more than they already le is very ill or dying (a als.” to the profession are. So many families that recipient). Recipients may have made the decision have an inherited genetic knowing that this is what condition, a severe illness or their loved one wanted, found disease that will ultimately kill their consenting to donating organs them if they don’t receive a transwas a way they could honour their loved plant; unfortunately, this is often at a young ones wishes, make their death meaningful age. Recipients can also be someone who and also a way that their loved one could live on. has sustained an injury from an accident, Is it a myth that if you're an organ donor, including burns, which require skin grafts. you're less likely to be saved should you find Who can become an organ donor? yourself in an ICU situation? What are other Almost anyone can be an organ and tissue common myths people have? donor. There are only a few medical conditions It's a common misconception that medical that mean you cannot be an organ donor. A lot staff won’t do everything possible to save your of people think they are too old or aren’t healthy life.The first duty for all medical professionals is enough to be a donor, but I recommend leaving to you and saving your life. The doctor in charge that decision up to the professionals. Even of your care has nothing to do with transplanpeople with pre-existing medical conditions can tation. Organ and tissue donation will only be still be donors. Although your organs may not be considered after all efforts to save your life have suitable for transplantation, your tissue might. failed. The transplant team are notified of the How important is having open conversapossibility of donation only AFTER the person has tions with your family about this topic? been declared legally deceased and the family I can’t stress the importance of this converhave agreed to donation. sation enough, as your family make the final Another myth that people have is that their decision if your organs will be donated or not. body will be disfigured or cut up into pieces. Many people don’t think they need to discuss Your body is treated with respect and dignity at it because they ticked yes on their licence to all times, including careful reconstruction. The being a donor, but you no longer register your family are able to view the body, and no one will donation decision on your licence (although be able to tell that you have donated organs and some older licences may still have your decision tissue. People don’t seem to have the same fear listed). I know of families who did not know their or apprehension about having their appendix loved ones' wish, and this caused them so much removed or knee reconstruction whilst they are unnecessary heartache and pain. I am sure you alive, but for some reason organ donation concould imagine that if something were to happen jures up different images for some people. to you, the last thing you would want is for your

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A misconception some have is that their cultural or religious beliefs prevent them from being a donor; but in fact, most religions support organ and tissue donation and view it as a generous act that benefits others. This includes Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Judaism and Hinduism. Should one need an organ transplant, what type of wait times does a patient face, and how have these statistics changed? This is not a straightforward question, as waiting list times vary. It’s dependent on finding an appropriate donor, on urgency, or on medical matching. I can tell you that for the first 11 months of 2014, Australia had 347 organ donors and 1,030 recipients. However, as at the end of 2014, we still had over 1,700 on the organ donor waiting list. Unless we can increase the donation rate, the number of people needing lifesaving transplants will always far outweigh those willing to make the ultimate donation. After completing your thesis, in your professional opininion, what is the solution to reduce the waiting list for organ donation? The easiest way to reduce the waiting list is to get more donors. Unfortunately, there is no one simple solution to getting more donors. Information is power and if people have factual information about organ and tissue donation, this will help them to not only make an informed donation decision, but will also help them to understand the importance of discussing this decision with your family. Have the chat that saves lives. Don’t wait 'til tomorrow; do it now, and don’t just do it once.

focusinterview.

Malcolm Hill SENIOR PHYSIOTHERAPIST • CLINICAL MANAGER

BARINGA REHABILITATION

alcolm, tell me about yourself ... I am a Physiotherapist and Clinical Manager working for Baringa Rehabilitation in Coffs Harbour. I grew up in Grafton in the Northern Rivers and have always known about the joys of the Coffs Coast and my now hometown of Sawtell. I studied my physiotherapy degree at the University of Queensland in Brisbane, graduating in 1993. I spent several years in Brisbane, as well as undertaking the seemingly obligatory working holiday in the UK prior to moving to the Coffs Coast in 2004. What areas of physiotherapy have you worked in? During my physiotherapy career I have worked in various areas of the profession, including sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy, adult and children’s rehabilitation, cardio thoracic, pulmonary physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. I have worked in the acute hospital setting, outpatients, community based physiotherapy as

well as working with students with special needs in schools. After spending 20 years tantalisingly close to the coast living in Brisbane, I was fortunate enough I have worked in l to secure a job here at the acute hospita s, nt ie at tp Baringa Rehabilitation setting, ou d in 2004. My wife, baby community base as y, ap er th io phys son and I duly moved with well as working down here to start a ecial sp ith students w physiotherapist is new life. s.” ol ho sc needs in that the people that We now have two actually get better are healthy boys enjoying the those that are active players Coffs Coast lifestyle, one a in managing their injury or Queenslander and one a Blue, condition. which makes it interesting at State This involves the patient setting realistic of Origin time! The quality of life offered goals and applying self-management activities here has been great for my family, who or strategies in addition to the hands on therapy are involved in various local activities such that one receives when visiting a practitioner. as surf lifesaving, board riding, and multiple What physiotherapy does Baringa Rehab football codes. offer? What is the most rewarding aspect of The team offers hands on physiotherapy such physiotherapy? as joint mobilisation, soft tissue techniques, The great lesson clinically that I have massage and taping; however, we also work learnt during my 20 odd year career as a

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with you on self-management techniques such as specific muscle stretching and strengthening, joint range of motion and core stabilisation/ balance. We will work on improving your walking and other specific movement patterns such as standing up/squatting, managing stairs, slopes or uneven surfaces. We offer guidance on how to go about household, garden or work tasks such as lifting/carrying, as well as leisure or sports pursuits. This will enable you to achieve more with less or no pain. We aim to enable people to focus in on their strengths and celebrate what they can achieve, rather than focusing on what they can’t.

coffs coast focus.

NOW THE “SILLY SEASON” OF EATING AND DRINKING IS BEHIND US, SOME OF US HAVE BEEN LEFT WITH A LITTLE EXTRA CHRISTMAS PUDDING THAT WE NOW WANT TO LOSE - AND QUICKLY.

ONE FITS DIETALL

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ow many of us have tried the latest diet, shake, supplement and pill for that “lose as much weight as possible in the shortest amount of time possible” and failed - yet we know somebody that has had great results; it just hasn’t worked for us! So we often end up frustrated and either give up and succumb to the couch and Tim Tams, or reach for the next “latest and greatest” solution. The thing about diets and different eating plans is that they don’t work for everybody the same. The general rule is that if you reduce your calorie intake, then yes - you will lose weight; it might not be body fat, but it will be weight nontheless. The problem is as soon as we go back to how we normally eat, it comes back and normally brings a couple of its friends as well! There is lot of controversy about different types of diets and eating plans - there is always a for and against, no matter what it is. And the choices are endless; we are swamped with ways of life, including Paleo - which is essentially meat and veg - to the latest crazy or Vegan lifestyles where all animal products

(including honey) are excluded … Do they both get results? Absolutely. Are they for everybody? Absolutely not. The list of diets, quick fixes and super food swamp our media, and we get caught in the hype of the results, which are often not what they appear to be. The trick - you need to find what works for you … your body type, intake requirements, activity levels and most importantly, your lifestyle. It really can be that simple - but simple is not always easy. If you are wanting to change your eating, you need to first look at your lifestyle and why you eat the way you do - then find a eating plan that fits, which may not be what your friends are doing, but you want the results for you. Talk to somebody who can guide you towards options and can talk you through the benefits of different eating plans. To really succeed, you’ll want to stick to a few simple rules. If you can’t pronounce it or your grandmother can’t recognise it - chances are, your body won’t either. Water is essential, and everything in moderation.

focusinterview.

AUSTRALIAN

psychology & WELLNESS CENTRE

A L L I S O N I S T H E P R AC T I C E M A NAG E R AT T H E AU S T R A L I A N P S YC H O L O GY A N D W E L L N E S S C E N T R E

ho makes up your team at the Psychology and Wellness Centre? Starting out in 2012 with two practitioners, our team is now made up of 12 amazing people. Our Practitioners include: Verity Stoker is the Director and a Clinical Psychologist, with over 12 years’ clinical experience. She has specific experience with hypnotherapy, postnatal depression, PTSD and Trauma and a personal interest in the effect of food on mental health. Michelle Kent works primarily with children, parents and young people with a focus on anxiety, depression, trauma, Autism, ADHD and other behavioural issues. Michelle also has extensive experience in Occupational psychology. Our newest Clinical Psychologist, Alira Bayndrian, originally hails from Coffs and has just returned from a five year stint in Alice Springs. Alira has extensive experience working with children, young people and families experiencing mental health issues, including emotional/behavioural disorders, trauma, working with foster carers and children in alternative care arrangements. Jessica Watters is a Clinical Psychology Registrar with a special interest in working with young people and adolescents. She also works with adults and has an interest in anxiety disorders, depression, issues such as bullying, assertiveness, self esteem problems and self harm. Mellissa Marks, Clinical Psychology Registrar, has a personal interest in working with adults who are challenged by addictions. She offers assessment and therapies for a range of

issues such as substance use and addictions, depression, anxiety, complex mental health issues, self-esteem, grief and loss, stress management and relationship issues. Kyla Holley is our Eating Disorders Practitioner. She is an experienced counsellor, supporting individuals through weight management and eating disorders such as Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating Disorder, Obesity and Orthorexia. Additionally, Kyla delivers training to professionals who want to develop their skills in treating eating disorders. Emma Tudor, Leah Anthony-Gould and Steve Smithers are our Provisional Psychologists. They are with the practice to complete their clinical experience and assist our clients with Biofeedback, stress management and develop education programs for assertiveness, parenting and men’s health issues. When setting up this Centre, what were your main objectives? The Centre is the brain child of Verity Stoker, who envisaged a comfortable, friendly practice with a larger space attached. Our conference space is flexible enough to accommodate all types of meetings, training and groups. Recognising that clients often need other types of support and education to enhance wellness the Centre was born. What services do you provide to the Coffs Coast community? Our primary service is face to face therapy, and we pride ourselves on being a friendly and understanding team. Seeking help can be a really scary and daunting experience. Coffs Harbour is blessed with a wide range of health services and support, but sometimes knowing what and how to access

them is a minefield. We build close ties to GPs, and DVDs, which we use to enhance the therapy medical services and supports in the community, process. We also have a number of Biofeedback often working together to help our clients and machines (a device attached to the hand which their families to have the best support for their measures heart rate and skin response, linked needs. with a computer program) to help some of our Clients might also benefit from training in clients to learn about their physical responses to assertiveness or self confidence, parenting stress or anxiety and develop better relaxation skills, relaxation techniques, techniques. hypnotherapy and What makes you different programs for anxiety in from other psychological Clients might children. fit services? ne be so al We have worked in ng ni We are awesome! I know ai tr from really hard to bring ess or en iv rt se that’s a bit bold, but that’s as together a team idence , nf co lf se our mantra. In everything of professionals

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renting skills,

pa we do, we focus on our who complement qu es , relaxation techni d each other, and clients and what the Coffs an py hypnothera y et xi we will continue an r Coast community needs. We fo s program ” to deliver services n. re ild are committed to developing in ch “outside the box” if opportunities to grow the range they help our clients and of services we offer. Working with community. other businesses and groups is pretty Do your practitioners work satisfying and rewarding too. under the mental health scheme, Where are you located? Can people walk in and can you explain more about and find out more about your services? this? We are in Stoker House, on the corner of Park Our practitioners are registered with Medicare, Ave and Gordon St near the Coffs CBD. The and by visiting your GP you could be eligible for entrance is just a little way off the corner on a mental health plan. This means that you can get a rebate on our fees. If you have a Pension or Health Care Card, we can bulk bill you if you have a plan. There are also other types of funding through Insurance, Medicare Local and government departments i.e; Defence. What type of equipment do you have available to assist with treatments? Our practice has an ever growing library of resources, including assessments, books, CDs

Gordon St, and we would love for anyone to come in for chat about our services and how we can help. Australian Psychology & Wellness Centre, 4/19 Park Ave, (enter via Gordon St), Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Ph: (02) 6653 7489 Fax: (02) 6526 2153 www.apawc.com.au coffs coast focus.

focusinterview with Melanie Zander from MJ Accountants

COFFS BUSINESSes REACH for

Excellence

elanie Zander, owner of MJ Accountants, understands that the quest for business excellence is ongoing. “Successful businesses never stop reaching to learn more and perform better,” she says. This year her company will be offering four Coffs Coast businesses a leg up in their search for excellence. The inaugural MJ Accountants Business Excellence Sponsorship program will provide participants with business coaching, quarterly financial reviews, a feature in this magazine and assistance in entering the Sunnys Business Awards. Let’s meet the four lucky companies who will be participating in the first sponsorship program. Jasmin Adams fromZION When Jasmin Adams posted an image of the moccasins she had made for her son on Instagram and asked if anyone else would like a pair, she had no idea that she was kicking off a global business. Twelve months later she has established online business fromZION, which sells a range of moccasins and apparel for children and adults. With over 26,500 Instagram followers, the business also has a professional ecommerce website and is establishing distribution with online and bricks and mortar retailers around the world. Manufacturing has been outsourced to two offshore subcontractors. Husband Ben, who is a graphic designer, helps with design. Five casual staff assist with pack and send. Otherwise, Jasmin wears every hat in this rapidly growing business. “I’ve never run a business before,” admits 26-yearold Jasmin. “I’m feeling my way through on my own right now, and it can be so confusing.” She hopes that working closely with the team at MJ Accountants will help her to develop strategies that will allow her to keep growing without overextending herself.

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Krystie Boyes and Justin Male Avenue in Sawtell. Champ Cleaning Running a superior-quality butchery, Lea and Krystie Boyes started her commercial cleaning Tim want to avoid having their marketing revolve business in December 2011 with one customer and around offering the cheapest price. “We are one other person working with her. A year later she looking for ways to boost sales without discounting had moved to a proprietary company structure, and or raising prices,” says Lea. “What we need is more the next year the business was growing so quickly, effective marketing.” she brought in partner Justin Male. The idea that an accountant could help with Champ Cleaning now employs 20 marketing might seem strange, but Lea is people and manages ten corporate confident that MJ Accountants can sites, including the C.ex group, help her to establish a realistic Nambucca RSL and the Deep marketing budget and develop J Sea Fishing Club. ways to measure the cost The inaugural M siness Accountants Bu In 2015 Krystie hopes effectiveness of marketing sorship Excellence Spon to continue to grow, activity. ovide program will pr but she knows that she Aidan & Keiko ss ne si bu participants with y needs to improve her Jarvis rl te ar co aching , qu ure at fe a financial understanding s, GeraGera Mobile ew vi re financial d an e in if she is to manage that az Café ag m in this tering the growth effectively. “I’ve If you’ve been to the assistance in en Awards .” ss ne done extensive training Harbourside Markets this Sunnys Busi with ETC and TAFE, but I still year, then there’s a good struggle with the numbers,” chance you’ve had a GeraGera says Krystie. coffee. Aidan and Keiko started She is confident that working closely the mobile café four years ago. A chef with the MJ Accountants team will enable by trade, Aidan had taken note of the food her to better understand financial statements truck trend that was taking off in the United and make better decisions as Champ Cleaning States, and decided to start with coffee, with Keiko continues to grow. adding some unique Japanese touches to the Lea & Tim Allen menu. Butcher’s Bullevard This year Aidan and Keiko are considering & Butcher’s Boutique expansion. “I have an idea for another mobile café, When Lea and Tim Allen saw the Palm Butcheries something a little bit different,” says Aidan. on the market in 2011, they jumped at the chance Understanding the numbers is critical to to buy it and made the move from Dubbo to Coffs successful business growth, and Aidan is looking Harbour. Since then they have transformed the forward to working with MJ Accountants to business into The Butcher’s Bullevard, which sells develop sound budgets and forecasts. “We are quality meats with no added hormones, sourced probably going to need help from the bank,” says from local farmers. Last year they expanded their Aidan. “It’s going to be critical that we get our business, opening the Butcher’s Boutique on First forecasting right.”

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focusbusiness. Vice President Sawtell Chamber of Commerce, Martin Wells

CYBER VISIT S AW ND

SAWTELL

VISIT

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Martin Wells.

VISIT S AW

are currently investigating. So my February “online” tips to help make our kids safe online are: • Make 2015 the year to take control of your child’s online activity. Understand that they are building their digital footprint that they will take with them their whole life: “If the school principal shouldn’t see it, don’t post it” is a great line to use. Prospective employers check digital footprints! • If you are paying the bill for the device, you have the right to set some rules and monitor your child’s online activity. • Ensure one of the rules is that you follow or friend them online via their social media accounts, so you can interact with them. • Turn off the device’s camera geo-location. In fact, if your child has Apple devices, set up the parental controls. This feature can be found in settings and is easy to set up; you just need to remember the password you allocate. It also enables you to restrict explicit content, age appropriate APPS, age appropriate music, all without your child even being aware you’re restricting their device. • Ensure that if you allow your child to be in the social media space and be on things like Facebook and Instagram that their accounts are set up as private. I also recommend double checking your own accounts are private as well. • Set down some rules about who to follow or friend - do they actually know the people, or is it the “official page” of a celebrity; if not, then question why they would need to be talking with strangers.

MANY PARENTS TELL ME THAT THEY DON’T REALLY KNOW WHAT THEIR KIDS ARE UP TO “ONLINE”, AS THEY DON’T REALLY DO “ONLINE” THEMSELVES. BUT AS HARSH AS THIS MAY SOUND - THAT’S NOT GOOD ENOUGH. IT IS OUR RESPONSIBILITY TO GET EDUCATED ABOUT ONLINE SAFETY.

ONLINE SAFETY TIPS FOR PARENTS

he reality is that our kids are growing up in the digital era - they are smart, they are tech savvy, they are intuitive, and they get IT! But what our kids don’t have despite all their technical knowledge is maturity - maturity to consistently make good choices, see potential dangers, see how hurtful some words and images can be to others, or to understand how their online actions can not only harm themselves, but others. To most kids, online is a game - it’s fun, it’s fulfilling and it’s just something you do. I’m not claiming to be an expert, but I do have a passion for ensuring that kids are safe. I work with social media on a daily basis, I’m a parent, and I’m married to an IT Geek who sees firsthand what goes on, and I know through talking to parents that we all need some help! To put this into perspective, I recently stumbled across some unusual social media activity of a friend’s daughter. Being the nosey parent I am, this discovery set me to investigating, and what I uncovered was a social media account which is, at best, very wrong. There were over thirty Coffs Coast girls clearly interacting with a stranger - a very odd middle-aged stranger - who was clearly grooming 13 to 16 year old girls for his own sexual gratification. I would even go so far as to say if you’re reading this column and have a teen daughter, she was probably following this account. I contacted as many parents as I knew to express my concern and reported the matter to the Australian Federal Police, who

OME A LO • C

MUM

Online Safety or Cyber Tips for Parents with Caroline Bleechmore, Park Beach Plaza.

As I write this column, having just finished our monthly Chamber of Commerce meeting, there is an undeniable sense of pride and enthusiasm about proudly declaring ourselves as Sawtellians, both personally and as business owners.

uring the December/January on working with Council at a local level and holiday period, our piece of State Government via Destinations NSW paradise has been bursting builds the platform for the ongoing success of at the seams, but not in an Sawtell. Like generations past, everything we uncomfortable way, however do today whilst providing success for current - more a palpable “vibe” that exudes from generations, must also be for the benefit of each and every visitor and local alike. Not generations future. That is why endeavours only are the “full house” signs up in the Main such as the successful (and evolving) “Sawtell Street, with no vacant shopfronts, similarly Summer Sessions”, Open Air Cinema (stay reports from accommodation providers over tuned in April), Hot Rods Street Show, the past two months have been that Sawtell Chilli Festival, national television, the “no vacancy” signs were print and radio advertising are all boasting prosperity across implemented by the Chamber the village. Indeed, to secure repeat visitors, ing br ill w the catch-cry for be they local, interstate, ry ua br Fe the summer break national and indeed another influx of s with wasn’t, “Gee, the international. sporting visitor modation (again) all accom g 100% surf’s pumping”; February will bring tin providers indica 12 /13/ 14 it was, “Gee, the e th r another influx of fo y nc pa cu oc h titles Main Street is sporting visitors weekend as Touc age in st pumping”. Getting again take ce ntre with (again) all the regular morning Coffs Harbour.” accommodation coffee or finding a providers indicating 100% table for dinner was, occupancy for the 12/13/14 on occasion, a challenge weekend as Touch titles again to say the least. Not that any take centre stage in Coffs Harbour. local would begrudge the economic A big welcome to Sawtell for the newly benefit to our local businesses, as it was refurbished “Frank’s Bar & Restaurant”, plain to see it was also benefitting the which has taken up residence in the previous entire community. Barrell’s location. Well worth a look and a

“

Hence, this month I would like to pose the question, and indeed it is an enviable position for a Chamber of Commerce to be found in, however: what do we do as a business community to not just maintain the level of success now being delivered to Sawtell as a tourist destination, but to strategically plan for growth and longevity for future generations and businesses? The answer, I believe, is in the cohesive, and visionary leadership of a dedicated Chamber of Commerce and a strong partnership with the wider community and indeed our tiers of government, whomever may be in power at the time. The emphasis our Chamber places

concept that it is unique and provides yet another alternative destination for a quiet beverage or bite to eat. The Sawtell Hotel has also had a sensational makeover. If you’re a Coffs Coast local and you haven’t been to Sawtell in a while, we invite you to do yourself a favour and head on in to savour culinary delights from around the world, beautiful fashion boutiques, and mixed businesses all framed by our famous heritage listed majestic figs. It doesn’t get any better. Yours in Business, Martin Wells Vice President, Sawtell Chamber of Commerce coffs coast focus.

focusinterview with Samantha Wardman of CornerPost Consulting

KIRI

WHEALEY ROSIE POSE EVENTS

“

iri you’re a Coffs born and bred local. Tell us a little about your background? My parents, David and Jenny, moved to Coffs Harbour about 35 years ago. My twin brother, Ashley and I were lucky enough to grow up with pristine beaches, close knit friends, and a sense of adventure. Mum and Dad always told us to have roots in our community, but also to explore the world and see what’s out there. It’s been a major force in the person I am today. I met my husband, Nathan, during my university days in Queensland. We then travelled across the Nullarbor armed with a microwave, a bar fridge and a wish to see something new. After deciding to settle in Perth, we camped in a tiny tent for about four months, before finding a home. I’ll never forget trudging over to the shower block in my PJs and emerging in my corporate uniform, my hair still with a bit of conditioner in there, because my 20 cent pieces had run out! You made the move to WA a few years back; what made you return to the Coffs Coast? My family and friends, and just the laid back beauty of Coffs Harbour was a real drawcard to returning. It was such a great thing to move to different places, meet incredible new people and gain amazing life experiences, but there’s no place like home. My husband, Nathan, and I moved back to Coffs, bought an old cottage to renovate (that was four years ago, and we’re still going!) created our own little family with daughters Mya and Tessa and started Rosie Pose Events. It’s been an incredibly busy time, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. You have had a diverse range of experience in your career to date. Tell us a little about how it has shaped what you are doing now. Yes! From being a Wedding Coordinator to Travel Consultant to Barista to Plumbing Assistant 58 coffs coast focus.

(yes, I can change a tap washer! I have done it all. I guess being a wedding coordinator in Perth caught my heart the most and sparked something in me that I truly loved. Working with each couple on something so special and personal was an extraordinary thing. Combined with my love of interior design, an event styling business seemed the perfect path for me. Plus, I can make a mean coffee! It takes real determination and ambition to start your own business, especially one that requires significant start-up costs. What inspired you to begin this journey? I wanted to really add something to Coffs Harbour … to be a part of it and to contribute. The passion was always there; I just found the courage to do something about it one day. Rosie Pose Events came to fruition when I became engaged and couldn’t find anything that was special enough for our beautiful day. A plastic chair with a blue bow just wasn’t going to cut it! With a lot of late night caffeine fixes, my head was whirring with ideas - I was so passionate about delivering something that was fresh, unique and inspired to Coffs Harbour. So in July 2014, Rosie Pose Events was born. We have had so much love and support from family and friends. I know it sounds clichéd, but I really couldn’t have done it without them. We’ve grown from strength to strength and have even welcomed a new stylist, Heidi, to our team. So we are looking forward to kicking some goals and making 2015 a great year! You mainly specialise in event hire and styling (including weddings). What does this entail? We are a new brand in the event industry in that we provide the materials you need (hire), as well as the spark of creativity and manpower to see a vision realised (styling). We wanted our couples to enjoy the process, love the result, and have the time to be truly present in those

ROSIE POSE EVENTS CAME TO FRUITION WHEN I BECAME ENGAGED AND COULDN’T FIND ANYTHING THAT WAS SPECIAL ENOUGH FOR OUR BEAUTIFUL DAY. A PLASTIC CHAIR WITH A BLUE BOW JUST WASN’T GOING TO CUT IT! WITH A LOT OF LATE NIGHT CAFFEINE FIXES, MY HEAD WAS WHIRRING WITH IDEAS - I WAS SO PASSIONATE ABOUT DELIVERING SOMETHING THAT WAS FRESH, UNIQUE AND INSPIRED TO COFFS HARBOUR.”

moments that matter. The heart of our company is our luxe hire collection - a space where we seek to redefine the style opportunities available to our couples on a rental basis. Our shelves are brimming with amazing high quality pieces, including: rustic timber tables, crystal vases, classic chairs, generous floor cushions and copper tea lights. We seriously have a beautiful and unique range of standout and classic pieces to hire! We also enjoy the creative styling process of events and are always seeking out new and innovative ways of creating outstanding and breathtaking event experiences. Styling is our real passion and underlies everything we do. You are in a highly competitive market place; what do you think are your key success factors? Client loyalty and word of mouth has been our biggest asset. I guess we offer something a bit special and unique that excites the heart, which makes it an easy sell in some regards, but we really pride ourselves on our service and ability to connect with clients and deliver amazing and memorable experiences for their guests. And we work HARD! Late nights, months and months of planning, heavy lifting, running around in the rain or 40 degree heat; we put our heart and soul into every wedding we do. We work with the most fantastic people - both our clients and vendors. They are all so incredible and inspiring, most of whom are friends to us now. It’s really a wonderfully supportive industry to be in and quite close knit. So although there may be competitors, each of us offer a different experience and as such, this creates a healthy

market place. How do you keep up to date with such a fast paced industry? I am a creative at heart, who has an obsession with wedding magazines! I have always loved interior design and fashion, and a lot of the wedding trends evolve from that. Pinterest is a wedding stylist’s best friend! So I’ll often spend countless hours seeking out new and inspirational styling trends and designs. It’s a great tool for creative souls - and free! It’s also great that the Coffs Harbour wedding industry is so collaborative and inspiring; we’re constantly dreaming up new ideas for our clients and turning their designs into reality, often working with multiple vendors to deliver an outstanding result for our client. Tell us what you think the top three trends for events will be in 2015? A key trend for this year is a strong sense of making it personal - with each couple wanting such different things to reflect who they are or represent as a couple. People seem to want to push the boundaries, and we love it! We are currently working on weddings which include: A Mexican Fiesta, a Hampton Estate Fair, a Rustic Barn Wedding, a Graceful All-White Wedding, a Backyard Garden Party, a Moroccan Boho Festival, and a wedding which will feature an enormous 10 ft wall of divine Babies Breath! I think the three top trending wedding styles will include - Copper Hues, Floral Installations, and the return of Elegance. Thanks Kiri.

We build apps greatapes.com.au 0419 292 528

a new era at coffs community college new year’s resolution Happy New Year to all of our clients, family and friends. The festive season has gone quickly and I hope it treated you well. It is now time to reflect on the year that has gone and focus on your plans for the New Year. I find that many people think about their financial situation over the holiday period and how they can do things differently or improve their situation in the year ahead. We have recently had several enquiries regarding overseas employment and people with overseas investments or financial transactions. Tax residency can be a complex area, so if you are in this situation it is important that you seek advice from a tax professional. Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement and even small changes can lead to bigger and better outcomes. You need to “plant that seed” if you want to grow. We have a range of packages of services that can be tailored to suit your needs for both business and personal clients. At Barry Hockey Accountants, we have a dedicated team to assist you. Our firm is big enough to get the job done and small enough to care. Personal service and attention to detail is our business.

The team at Coffs Coast Community College have unveiled some changes for 2015 with a new Management team, upgraded facilities, a revamped program and some exciting new partnerships. As an RTO, the College offers Nationally Recognised Accredited Training in Aged Care, Children’s Services and Information Communication and Digital Media. In addition to customised training for businesses, there are a wide range of work skills and general interest courses on offer to meet the local community’s needs. Programs range from computer, business and vocational training to language, health and well-being. “Innovation in course development and delivery is paramount to sustaining community based colleges. We want to hear from the community about their ideas for new courses and from businesses that have training needs that are not being met,” says new Training & Quality Manager Gordon Amann. In the spirit of collaboration, local co-working hub SIX DEGREES have found a permanent home at the College. Another success for the College has been securing a large grant from Department of Education and Communities for Links to Learning Program to assist disadvantaged young girls at Toormina and Orara High Schools. So if you want to be inspired to learn something new in 2015, visit www.coffscollege.nsw.edu.au and check out all that is on offer.

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS IN

Great Apes Media

we’re only a click away www.coffscollege.nsw.edu.au

P: 6652 5378 E: admin@coffscollege.nsw.edu.au

coffs coast focus.

THE

EDUCATION CENTRE

THERE IS SO MUCH TO LEARN IN THE CLASSROOM TODAY, AND SOMETIMES IT IS DIFFICULT TO KEEP UP AT SCHOOL, ACCORDING TO LIZ STEVENS FROM THE COFFS HARBOUR EDUCATION CENTRE.

eachers, she said, were stretched by the pressures of a crowded curriculum and increasing administrative work, and that often meant they had less time to devote to individual students who either struggled or those who were more advanced. What classes are on offer? “The Education Centre has been helping students improve and excel for more than 10 years and offers tuition in almost every academic subject, from preschool to Year 12 and beyond,” Liz said. “Two of our most exciting new classes are Preparation for High School for Years 6 and 7 and Extension Class for Years 8 to 10. These classes help students learn how to organise, plan and finish their assignments, a skill that they will call upon all the way through high school, in university and as a future life skill.” Is tuition just for students who struggle? “There are some students who can’t quite grasp a topic in the classroom and they need to revise to understand things fully, and there are other students who want to get the edge so they may be able to excel in their exams,” Liz said. “There are also many students who fall in

60 coffs coast focus.

between those two extremes who just want to work towards a better outcome.” How much tuition do students need? Liz said there was no specific formula for tutoring, as everyone’s needs were different. “Each student is unique, and their needs vary greatly,” she said. “Every student learns at a different speed and in a different manner. “Some students need just a little top up from time to time, and yet others require continuous help throughout their school years.” How does tutoring offer success? Liz says success can present in many different forms, ranging from helping a student gain Dux in a school to assisting a student to move up three levels in their reading. “Just seeing a student gain the understanding of a concept in literacy or numeracy is reason for excitement with our teachers and tutors,” she said. “At The Education Centre, it is all about helping a student to meet their individual goals and assisting them to reach their full potential.” So is it better to study in small groups or work individually? “Lots of parents believe that individual tuition is the only way for their child,” Liz said. “This is true in some cases; however, in subjects like English, Art, Legal Studies, Business Studies

and a number of other subjects, group tuition can be even more beneficial. Students get the benefit of discussion and even role play, which can enhance their understanding dramatically.” How do I know if I have the right Tutor? “Finding the right tutor with the right skills is really important,” Liz said. “Here at The Education Centre, we have around 30 teachers from varying backgrounds and areas of expertise. By having a selection of quality teachers, we can choose the right teacher who will bring out the best in your son or daughter.” Does tutoring help in other ways? “This is an interesting question,” Liz says. “Not everyone needs an academic background for future employment. For example, there is an abundance of employment in the creative and performing arts and tutoring is not just about gaining academic knowledge, it’s also about building confidence and developing self-esteem. “By giving your child the opportunity to gain confidence, overcome stumbling blocks, to improve their skills and learn new things, you are helping to build their self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. This is really vital when it comes to developing a sense of success and creating personal achievement.”

The creative and performing arts Liz said the Education Centre also offered tutoring in the Arts, and this was proving to be a popular part of the educational program. “As students become accomplished in these creative areas, their confidence and self-esteem improves as well,” Liz said. “Our motto is ‘Love to Learn’, so we aim to build our Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) programs this year with a focus on enjoyment. “There are many options, like Singing, Guitar, Drums, Piano, Drama and Art.” Why learn a language? Another valuable part of the program at the centre is our dynamic Languages department. “Of course we all know that learning another language not only improves your brain capacity, but it broadens your horizons,” Liz said. “At The Education Centre we firmly believe in this motto and you have the opportunity of learning a variety of languages, including Japanese, Mandarin, French and Italian. We also offer ESL English for migrants.” To give your child the opportunity to meet their full potential, give the team at The Education Centre a call and find out what tutors are available across the curriculum. Celebrate the love of learning and expand your mind today! Call 6652 2222.

FEBRUARY 2015

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

Your personal strength is inspiring to those close. Avoid heavy discussions or bullying energies at the moment, as your reserves are affected by other people’s needs. Place yourself in the company of light, happy people, where you will shine. Citrine shatters negative energy and attracts an abundance of positive energy.

PISCES.

February 20 - March 20

As usual, your sparkling personality is out there and being recognised. Further opportunities are about to find you. Make the most of your good luck. Send a wish out to the new moon for all your desired feelings. Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20

Your faith has been tested, as has your patience. Don’t give up so close to receiving your success. The wait will be well worth it. An opportunity to further educate yourself and gather new friends will soon present itself. Turquoise gives self-confidence a boost.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Now is a perfect time to stop, sit back and re-evaluate your situation at work. Your leadership skills are yearning to be used and your creativity has suffered from “mundane burn-out”. Listen to your own inner voice, as you know your answer clearer than any-one. Turquoise is great for self-validation.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

It’s a perfect time to release yourself from your fears and take a plunge. Reconnect with that adventurous self and do something spontaneous. Push your boundaries and step outside your comfort zone. Then see how powerful you feel. Rose Quartz is wonderful for self-confidence.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

A clear conscience is a soft pillow. There are words you need to express to ease a loved one’s anxiety. Be objective, not judgmental, if you wish to be heard. You can claim your future by being the person you want to be. Play in nature, take a bush-walk, or stroll along the beach and “de-stress”. Moonstone will help with your mood swings. Hold it and think of three things you are grateful for.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23

Even though you may have been feeling rejected lately, just look at the new attitudes and self-confidence you have gained. New friends are coming into the picture. Work opportunities are likely to offer a nice distraction to your sadness. Citrine keeps us positively focused and lifts our spirit.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23

Avoid arguing the point at the moment, as this behaviour is stopping you from seeing the bigger picture. Your position is far more valuable as the wise “peace-keeper”, not the enemy. Soon change will show you how important your values really are. Be kind to yourself. Clear Quartz gives our confidence a boost.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23

Good news is on its way, more than likely bringing cause to celebrate. Kick up your heels and party; celebration is good for the soul. Your writing skills are suffering from boredom lately, so pick up that pen and put your creative self to good use. Citrine attracts an abundance of positive energy and shatters negativity.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22

An exciting adventure is on the horizon. If this opportunity has never been available to you before, shouldn’t that mean something? Don’t allow other people’s worries to spoil your exciting adventure. Listen to your intuition, and you can’t go wrong. Citrine will enable you to maintain high energy levels.

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

There is much comfort for you to be found in your relationship at present. Your support is vital to each other’s success at the moment. Keep bouncing ideas off each other, as you can see the benefits of this. Herkimer Diamond, the soul connecting crystal, would be ideal.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Your genius mind is about to find an exciting new challenge. Pursue something that gives you creative satisfaction, as this will feed your drive and motivation in other areas as well. Don’t say yes to any offer; know your worth. This is the difference between happy and sad at the end of the day. Rose Quartz connects us to what really is important. coffs coast focus.

EVEN A SMALL ADDITION CAN MAKE A B I G D I F F E R E N C E T O H O W A S PAC E I S U S E D

hen Sawtell Bowling Club were extending and refurbishing the club, they wanted to connect the dining area and the greens.

W E T H I N K I T ’S G O I N G T O B E R E A L LY G R E AT F O R O U R YO U N G E R B OW L E R S, W H O E NJ OY B A R E F O O T B OW L I N G W I T H S O M E R E F R E S H M E N T S.

Specialist clubs builder Paynter Dixon called in the experts in indoor-outdoor living, Spanline Home Additions Coffs Harbour, to design, cost and quantify the project on their behalf. The result is a semi-enclosed function room, adjacent to the dining room, looking onto the bowling greens. “There should be a hundred uses for this room when you start to think of it,” said club treasurer, Kate Gill. “We think it’s going to be really great for our younger bowlers, who enjoy barefoot bowling with some refreshments,” Ms Gill said. “When we have events like our recent Kojak’s Festival of Bowls, we will use the room for registrations.” Capable of seating 40 diners, the cyclone rated Wintech Window System consists of easy-glide window panels at chest height, allowing breezes to flow through without the bugs. Glass panels to the ceiling bring in lots of light and views across the links and into Sawtell Reserve. “The design allows for the area to be opened up to southerly sea breezes,” said Peter Pappalardo of Spanline. The lower panels consist of fixed glass, while the middle and top window sections open. “We also used a laminated - tinted comfort glass to help with heat reduction,” Mr Pappalardo said. “The overall glass height of approx. three metres ensures the Club has not lost any views on to the green and surrounding space,” he said. “We are proud to be associated with Sawtell Bowling Club as part of the overall extensions to the club and thank them for giving us the opportunity to provide our input. I’m sure the club and their patrons will get great use of the area for many years to come.” “Peter at Spanline was excellent to deal with, and he couldn’t do enough for us to get the project going,” said club chief executive Dawn Grebert. “He was really prompt at responding to us, and the builder who erected the structure was very professional,” Ms Grebert said. “Constructing the Spanline extension was no hindrance for us at all in running the club,” she said.

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S PA N L I N E A N D S AW T E L L B OW L I N G C L U B W E ’ R E R E A L LY HAPPY WITH THE P R I C E S PA N L I N E GAV E U S A N D I F I WA S H AV I N G ANYTHING DONE AT H O M E O R ELSEWHERE, I WO U L D N ’ T H E S I TAT E T O U S E T H E M AGA I N.

inished just before Christmas, the function room is already being used for everything from alfresco dining, bowlers’ meetings and barefoot bowls.

“It’s open and airy with a very nice, green outlook, and you can watch the holidaymakers arriving at the reserve camping grounds,” Ms Gill said. “We’re really happy with the price Spanline gave us and if I was having anything done at home or elsewhere, I wouldn’t hesitate to use them again,” Ms Grebert said. Total club renovations have delivered a light-filled gaming area, bowlers’ locker rooms, new kitchen and a new set of toilets for diners and the most visible - a new street façade. Sawtell Bowling Club is now a more welcoming and light-filled environment, but still the friendly club locals have always known.

coffs coast focus.

focus_tourism

M E E T

with Dene Zahner, President of Tourism Coffs Coast.

L O C A L

FRENCH COMPLETE PEST CONTROL

COMPLETE PEST CONTROL IS ONE OF COFFS COAST’S LEADING PEST CONTROL COMPANIES. THEY TACKLE PEST, RODENT AND TERMITE PROBLEMS WITH INTELLIGENT PEST CONTROL SYSTEMS AND CAN EVEN DO BUILDING INSPECTIONS PRIOR TO MOVING IN TO YOUR NEW HOME.

haun, I believe you are a local and the new owner of Complete Pest Control. What prompted you to take over this business? I spent several years working for the previous owner, who was based in Ballina and travelling down to Coffs Harbour to run the company. I always thought Complete was a great company and had an amazing presence in the area, so what better way to improve the service then have it locally owned and involved in the community.

pest control, treatments, termites, new home construction and with the introduction of our new Deluxe pest treatment, you can get total coverage for just about every pest at just one low price.

If you’re buying that dream home, we even do Pest and Building inspections, so you can have total peace of mind. Pest control is extremely important because not only are infestations unpleasant, but they can become very costly if left untreated - as well as spreading disease. Termite treatments are also essential, as this is one thing you cannot insure against, so why leave your investment to chance? We treat multiple Our customers of can be assured homes each week for onal termite infestations prompt , professi aff st service. With six that could have been es on and four vehicl prevented. e w , es

What is your background and experience in this area? Since I was in school, I have always worked in areas involving both a trade background and the ro ad at all tim t customer service. I as What can a customer have the Coffs Co was offered a position expect when you or your covered. ” within pest control team arrive at their home and from day one, I or business? loved it (even though I’m Our customers can be assured scared of spiders). I have done of prompt, professional service. With everything from termite protection six staff and four vehicles on the road at to new and existing homes, treatment all times, we have the Coffs Coast covered. of termite infestations, commercial work All work is fully guaranteed as well as ourselves and all aspects of pest control; I definitely being fully insured. With 4,000 domestic clients see us as the experts for termite treatment and as well as a host of local restaurants, clubs, protection on the Mid North Coast. We have businesses, builders and seniors villages, we contacts from Sydney to Darwin and draw on still provide our customers with individual, this knowledge and experience, as well as being personalised service. No person is ever the same, HIA members. so no property is ever the same. We also have

“

Who needs to use your service, and why is it important to look after your property with pest control? Realistically, everyone. The creepy crawlies love the climate as much as we do. Since we cater for everyone and every pest issue, we can literally be your one stop shop, covering general 64 coffs coast focus.

UPDATE HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM TOURISM COFFS COAST. CONSENSUS FROM THE LOCAL TOURISM INDUSTRY IS THAT IT HAS BEEN ANOTHER BUSY SUMMER HOLIDAY PERIOD, WITH THE MAJORITY OF TOURISM OPERATORS REPORTING THAT 2014 WAS A BETTER YEAR THAN 2013.

actors such as lower fuels prices and the drop in the Australian Dollar to around $0.80 in the US dollars definitely assisted in making this holiday season

successful.

Logie award, which is a great achievement. You can show your support by going to www. tvweeklogieawards.com.au/vote/ and voting for Blue Zoo - and let’s help the Dolphin Marine Magic win another award. A big congratulation to the Big

2015 is shaping up to be a

Banana for being successful

very busy year with events.

in receiving a grant of

In February we will host the OZ tag junior state cup, which has filled all accommodation houses on the Coffs Coast from the 13th to 15th February. March sees

Our award n winning attractio ” ic ag M e “D olphin Marin here w n tio was the loca on the ABC Televisi o was Zo ue Bl e Th series shot .”

“

Coffs Harbour hosting a match of the NAB Challenge Cup between the Sydney Swans and The Brisbane Lions, as well as the return of the National Touch Football Titles. Then at the end of April, we are hosting the World

$500,000 from the NSW Government through the Regional Visitor Economy Fund. These funds will assist the Big Banana in constructing a large water park, which will add to their already impressive number of activities.

This will be a great boost for tourism on the Coffs Coast. The Saltwater Freshwater Festival returns to the Coffs Coast for the first time in three

plans to add another admin member and service vehicle to the fleet in the coming months, to provide an even better service to the Coffs Coast.

Touch Football Cup. So if you love your sport,

How can customers find you? By calling 6652 9391, in the local directories on Facebook or at www.completepestcoffs.com.au/

ABC Television series The Blue Zoo was shot.

www.saltwaterfreshwaterfestival.com.au

This show has been nominated for Most

And remember, as we say at Tourism Coffs

Popular Reality Program in this year’s TV Week

Coast: “Tourism is everybody’s business”.

then Coffs Harbour is the place to be. Our award winning attraction “Dolphin Marine Magic” was the location where the

years. This festival celebrates Indigenous culture and will open on Australia Day Weekend. For more information, please go to

focus_travel

with Kerry Moss from Quadrant Travel

Planning Your African Adventure. When planning your holiday to Africa, it is essential that you define exactly what you are wanting to experience.

Jeanette Lapham Kenya • Tanzania • Zanzibar. “ T R AV E L I S M O R E T H A N H AV I N G A D E ST I NAT I O N I N M I N D. I T I S D I S C OV E R I N G A P L AC E I N YO U R H E A RT YO U ’ V E N E V E R B E E N B E F O R E ”- A N O N.

e had always wanted to travel to Africa, and over the years developed a massive desire to one day experience a “Safari” for ourselves. One might say we had achieved our bucket list holiday. Our destination was Kenya, Tanzania and Zanzibar. We had chosen to do a “fly in safari”, which avoided travelling on the horrendous roads from camp to camp, sometimes taking as many as nine hours. Our eight-seater aircraft that transported us was the perfect mode of travel, so maximum time could be spent on safari. Landing on a dirt airstrip in the midst of savannah that stretched to the horizon leaves a lasting impression. Each of our four boutique camp/lodges offered a very unique experience; the term glamping springs to mind. We were never disappointed; the wildlife in the Masai Mara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Lake Manyara all seemed to get the memo that we had arrived, and we had big expectations. We saw the “big five” within 24 hours of arriving at our first camp. On another morning we experienced the thunder of a herd of 3-4,000 Wildebeest crossing the Mara River - the resident crocodile only giving a half-hearted lunge to try and catch lunch. We suspect he’d already enjoyed a large breakfast. Just over the hills in the distance were another 250,000 animals grazing until the feed ran out, and they too would make the crossing. A herd of approximately 30 hippopotamus, including young, were relaxing in a large pool five hundred metres upstream from this crossing point. The safari company we had entrusted for this special holiday were faultless in their operation - nothing was too much trouble and absolutely

everything was included. Our guides possessed eyesight so keen, they seemed to be able to see the flick of a lion’s tail behind a tree 500 metres away! This, combined with their knowledge of the various animals’ habits, enabled us to find many species that would have otherwise remained unobserved. Although, we did have a moment of concern, when we became bogged in a gully whilst looking for the pride of lions that had killed and partially ate a zebra which we found stashed in the fork of a tree. Immediately after extricating ourselves from the muddy gully, a very large lioness stood up and walked out of the long grass only eight metres from where we had just been! Observing a pride of lions, laying in the shade after a feed, from only seven or eight metres is a humbling experience.

How much time do you have? Are you only wanting a safari style holiday, or do you want to mix it up with some other tourist attractions? Are you travelling on a budget, or do you want a five star experience? Are you travelling with children? All these questions will determine what part of Africa will be right for you and your family. Jeanette Lapham at Quadrant Australia has recently returned from Africa and tells us it is such a diverse continent with a myriad of different experiences. Jeanette says,“It is therefore very important to discuss your exact needs with your travel agent to ensure we are planning the right holiday for you.” You might be surprised when comparing the

different options available, that the difference in costs may not be as great as you expected. Some smaller boutique properties offer fully inclusive packages, which means that you are paying in advance for most things - which is both convenient and good value. Weather and time of year also play a large part in the planning process and should be taken into consideration when you are considering which part of Africa you might travel to. Not only does the animal experience change, but so do the road conditions. All of these things should be discussed with your travel agent during the planning process. If you are interested in an African holiday and would like to discuss it in a friendly, welcoming office with experienced staff, call in and see the team at Quadrant Travel in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour.

Vervet monkeys stealing bread rolls from the breakfast bar in Lake Manyara, a baby elephant, all of one metre high, charging our vehicle until he thought better of it and rushed back to Mum, or driving through a herd of animals that stretched to the horizon are things you will remember forever. After this magical experience, we flew to Zanzibar for five nights to snorkel in the crystal clear waters off the island. We explored the historic town of Stonetown and marvelled at the fascinating architecture. The ornately carved entry doors are a special feature. The stories of the spice and slave trade were both confronting and captivating. Having now returned from this holiday, we agree that the experience was way beyond our expectation and would do it again in a heartbeat. If you want to hear more, drop in to see us at Quadrant Travel and Journeys in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour. coffs coast focus.

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le Dāin Designs

Ashley Sholer and Emma De Groot

Kristy and Ben De Groot

Amelia and Michael Maclean

Ethan McDonough and Louise White

Kachina Lucas and Maddison Norton

Petina Williams and Ian Malley

Leanne Zietsch, Jeffrey Hardcasstle and Michelle Cooper

Adam Gergic and Ellie Gall

Anna, Scott Moody & Lilli-Yana Moody, and Saige Simpson

Social/scene.

njoying the beaches during the day, then dining out in the cool of the evening definitely seemed to be on trend for both the locals and the holiday makers to this area. I took lots of happy snaps for this issue, of diners out to party enjoying our amazing selection of eateries around town. Certainly spoilt for choice! January is always full of family fun events, and one of the big ones is The Sawtell Fun Day. Super sunny, as the crowds flocked to have some good times and enjoy all the fun of the fair, from the excitement of the annual wood chop to stalls filled with yummy morsels to tantalise your taste buds! Carnival games and rides on fast moving dodgem cars kept the young and old well amused. Great day all round! Once again fans of the circus got to enjoy and be exhilarated with the antics of the high flying stars, acrobatic performers, motorbike stuntmen and so much more, all under the colourful big top of the Circus Royale. Certainly something to thrill and entertain the whole family whilst enjoying a fairy floss or two! The international acts connected to this circus are simply sensational. The Coffs Harbour Showground was jam packed with thrill seekers chomping at the bit to watch the “Steel Globe of Death”! Once inside this ball, cyclists sped and manoeuvred around a cage of only four metres wide! The speed they reached was up to 80 km/h. Definitely not for the faint hearted, for both the performers and the onlookers! Lots of fun for the Coffs Coast and great entertainment for the tourists! 66 coffs coast focus.

Sizzling hot summer days and hazy humid evenings have lured everyone to the cool waters of our beautiful Coffs Coastline.

Once again it was another successful fundraising Race Day, at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. The Annual Pink Silks Race Day Event saw a sea of pink attired excited race goers attend the ever popular charity event just recently. The soaring temperatures and a sprinkle of rain certainly didn’t deter a flurry of entrants strutting their stuff on the runway for the Fashions on the Field Competitions. Both the Pink Silks Committee and the Race Club work tirelessly to make this annual event the huge success it has become. We were treated to a delicious lunch on our usual tables, along with the excitement of the races and a little flutter or two. The day was particularly special this year, as we were honoured to welcome the much loved, now retired Race Caller John Tapp to our local Race Club. John had been one of the Race Callers that attended the Coffs Harbour Race Callers Race Day in January 1994. This epic day was definitely a biggie for the Coffs Coast. A leading Race Caller from every state and territory was invited up to call a race. John Tapp, along with another well known Race Caller Ken Howard, have always been huge supporters of the area and our local club. In fact, Johnny Tapp was invited to call his last race back in 1998 for the Coffs Harbour Gold Cup but due to weather conditions, the day was cancelled and a phantom race meeting was moved to the Coffs C.ex. This time round, John Tapp was here to enjoy the day and witness Race Caller Matt Hill also call his last race here at the Coffs Harbour Racing Club. It’s all happening here on the Coffs Coast!

This event, along with other functions which were also organised by the Pink Silks committee, gathered the amazing sum of $100,000 to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and local women’s health. An amazing effort by all involved. A beautiful event was staged at the Beachfront Opal Cove Resort just recently. It was the annual Bridal Expo, which was an absolute must for anyone planning a wedding in the near future. The opulent front foyer was decked out with everything you could possibly need to make your wedding day a dream come true. Many bridal specialists were on site to help you create the magic. Tours of the beautiful resort were also featured throughout the day to showcase accommodation for the wedding and certainly the honeymoon. Champagne was served, as guests got to peruse at their leisure. The Coffs C.ex was the venue of choice to showcase over 90 pieces of artwork. It was an open free art display which was part of the club’s open days. What a great idea to get the family out and about and indulge in some together time! The judges for the competition were the talented Jeffrey Baker and Trudy Smith. After the show, visitors could enjoy the club’s dining options - great day out. Staying with the art world, the 2015 event calendar at the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery is chock-a-block full with exciting shows to please all this year. To kick start the year, four very different and interesting displays have been showcased. The first was an exhibition by the award

winning artist John Boker. He is a Sydney artist known for his still life paintings, as well as his interior, streetscapes and landscapes. Visitors to the gallery got to enjoy his luscious colour ways and the unmitigated freshness of the paintings. The gallery hosted paintings celebrating the Saltwater Freshwater Festival. This small but elegant show was only a taste of the extensive talent in our region among Indigenous artists, said director /curator Dr Leigh Summers. There is always an abundance of art shows to enjoy throughout the year at the Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery. On 8th January, around 850 people visited the popular North Sapphire Beach Masterplanned Community to enjoy ‘Sapphire Outdoor Cinema”, a free moonlight cinema event, hosted by developer Walker Corporation. Children and adults alike enjoyed a screening of the popular animated children’s musical fantasy film Frozen, with the free popcorn a big hit with all the guests. The Disabled Surfers Association ran a sausage sizzle and collected gold coin donations for parking, raising an impressive $1,200. The event was an enormous success, and Walker Corporation was pleased that the wider community and families on holiday were able to join in the fun. Whatever you do this year, find time to get out and enjoy life as much as you can. Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

s o c i a l s c e n e

with Carole Beros from Le DÄ in Designs

Kerry and Graeme Moss and Family

Todd, Holly, Milla, Kealey Adamson

Andrew and Kerrie Fraser

Rosemarie and Michael Atkins

Johnny Tapp, Alan Johnson, and Greg Miles

Mayoress Denise Knight, Jenny Bonfield and Carole Beros

Dr Chris Knight, Linda & Rob Berry

Pink Silksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Best Dressed Couple: Patrick Valance & Tayla Johnson

Zack Smith and Brittany Dorta

Jenine Glenn

Opal Cove Bridal Expo Exhibitors

Sally Simmons, Megan Williams and Julie Smith

Barry Heffernan, Michael Simmons and Andrew Williams

Pink Silks Committee

Ange Anderson, Joanne Atkins, Beth Agland and Linda Sommerville

Moonlight Cinema at North Sapphire

Virginia Jolly, Tanya Watts, Brittany Raven and Rykila Geerligs

coffs coast focus.

M E E T

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Some of Coffs Coast Nutrition’s team M E E T

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Louise

Sheree

Coffs Coast Nutrition Emerald ENERGY Skylights have been around in various styles for many years, including traditional square skylights, solid tubular or flexible shaft skylights, or a plain old roof window. Whilst all of these varieties were created to bring natural light into our homes, there are a number of issues associated with these products, such as heat gain and loss, and difficulty in lighting lower storeys or rooms on the south or shaded sides of our homes. Solatube has proudly been a world leader in skylight manufacturing for over 20 years and a few years ago developed and patented the world’s first Tubular “Daylighting” System - the “Brighten Up” series. Designed specifically to overcome all of the issues previously connected with skylights, the Daylighting System now allows you to experience daylight like never before by using 99.7% highly reflective tubular shafts, and a dome that captures and bends light down into your home. The skylight is fully insulated, which blocks both debris and heat from passing through. Solatube also offers the GlassDistractions diffuser range, allowing your skylight to utilise the visual benefits of glass to be a decorative feature in your room. With a variety of designs available, there is a style to suit everyone’s decor. For more information, call your local dealer, Emerald Energy, on 6651 9926, who will help find a model and style to suit your needs.

Want to brighten your home with sunlight? A Solatube Brighten Up Daylighting System: * brings natural daylight to those difficult to light areas

FREE

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merald nergy efficiency in energy 68 coffs coast focus.

CALL NOW

6651 992 6 info@emeraldenergy.net.au

Did you know that the Accredited Practising Dietitians at Coffs Coast Nutrition have additional qualifications over Nutritionists? This enables us to provide more specialised and comprehensive advice, as well as personalised meal plans. Our team consists of university qualified Dietitians, Nutritionists, and Health Coaches. We also have personal trainers and a fully equipped, air conditioned gym. It’s not only about qualifications and training. We provide holistic nutrition, exercise and lifestyle advice in a supportive, caring and non-judgmental environment. What can we do for you? Some people think that Dietitians simply count calories or put people on diets. At Coffs Coast Nutrition, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Our Health and Wellness coaching can help you gain control over your health, and help you to feel happier and more energised. Clients frequently comment that they wish they had seen us years ago, rather than resorting to expensive measures that failed to produce the desired outcome. We provide nutritional guidance to athletes, and because we don’t sell sports products or supplements, you can rest assured that the advice we provide is unbiased. We have a variety of weight loss programs and can also help you to gain control over a medical condition with nutritional therapy.

Ginkgo healing What’s your New Year Resolution? Looking to achieve optimal health and vitality? Or simply get your health back on track? Your journey back to wellness starts here. Each person has their own unique blueprint for health. Achieving health success is about helping you develop a game plan that works for you. We have developed a wellness program which will help you achieve your health goals. Three Steps 1. A full health audit We start by getting all the facts ...! We take a full health audit and check your family health history to highlight any genetic predispositions. An initial consult also includes a full iris analysis. The iris is your genetic blueprint, providing insight into the development of disease from its earliest inception. 2. Dietary assessment Is your diet lacking in essential nutrients vital for health? Are lifestyle factors creating an increased demand for nutrients that can’t be met by diet alone? 3. Assessment of Diagnostics Functional testing determines how well the different systems of the body are working. This enables us to step in and correct function before it can do harm (cause illness). Book a block of three appointments in advance and save. Ginkgo Healing can now be found at the Coffs Health Hub, 4/30 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour.

coffs coast focus. 69

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building stronger bones

complete pest control What is a pest and termite specialist? It takes knowledge, experience and the latest equipment to successfully protect a home from pests and especially termite attack. The annual damage bill to homes in Australia from termites is estimated at more than $100 million, so it’s essential to have someone that will take the time to understand your house and the issues you have. Who uses your services? We have a large number of domestic clients, as well a host of local restaurants, clubs, businesses, builders and senior villages. We still provide our customers with individual personalised service. No person is ever the same, so no property is ever the same. What makes you different to other pest control services? Besides our dedication to quality of work and value for money, seeing that we are one of the largest pest companies on the Mid North Coast, one thing I’m so proud of is Complete Pest Control is 100% local. I went to school at Toormina, my kids will go to school here, my partner is a nurse at the hospital, and all jobs stay local. We sponsor two rugby league teams, as well as a local Motocross rider and other events in our community, and there are plans for further sponsorships into 2015 and beyond.

$110

From

Areas treated include Interior, Exterior, Roof-Voids, Sub-Floors and Garden Areas etc. Treatment covers Large Cockroaches, Silverfish and Spiders. Based on an average 3-4 bedroom home.

12 month written warranty Excludes German Cockroaches - Site visit needed for quote.

other services german cockroaches, bees, wasps, ants, rodents, bed bugs, borers, possum control, mosquito control, fleas, lice and more.

From Pre Purchase Pest & Building Inspections

$395

6652 9391 70 coffs coast focus.

OUR PHONES ARE ALWAYS ANSWERED

Did you know that bones are actually classified as a living organ? Did you know that bone tissue stores 99% of the body’s calcium? There are two principal effects of ageing on bones: loss of bone mass and brittleness. As a young person, your bones are continually remodelling themselves. This means the ongoing replacement of old bone tissue with new bone tissue. When you turn age 30, this process slows down, accelerates around age 45 (due to a decrease in oestrogen levels) and continues until as much as 30% of the calcium in your bones is lost by age 70. Fortunately for men, calcium loss does not begin until after 60! So how do you stop this or dramatically slow it down? In addition to diet and vitamin D, you need to stress your bones by doing impact activities like running, skipping, jumping, but if you can’t, you do the closest thing. In addition, resistance training is key to keeping your muscles big and strong, so that they pull on your bones to keep them remodelling, therefore stopping or slowing down the ageing process. The studio offers a number of services to help keep your bones strong. Visit the website for more comprehensive information on all services.

jazz’s Dog grooming Treat your pooch to a makeover at Jazz’s Dog Grooming! Jazz’s Dog Grooming is a brand new grooming salon to Coffs Harbour and is run and owned by local Jazz Fitzgerald. Jazz aims to provide a stress free and enjoyable grooming experience for your pet. The grooming salon is equipped with state of the art appliances and products, featuring a Savel Hydrobath, soft dryers, sweet smelling organic products that promote optimum skin and coat health and Andis quiet range-clipping equipment. Jazz is very passionate about the health and wellbeing of any dog and believes that all dogs deserve to be pampered with the best treatment possible. Jazz holds a Petsafe First Aid & CPR certificate and was inspired and educated by International Certified Master Groomer and International Grooming Judge, Christine Speerin. Specialising in a personal and professional service, Jazz understands that your pets aren’t just animals, they are family members, and will be treated with respect, care and leave feeling refreshed. Jazz’s Dog Grooming caters for many grooming needs for your pet, big or small. Whether it’s just a nail trim, puppy’s first visit, basic clip or breed style, Jazz has a package suitable for you and your pets’ needs.

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CFS TRAVEL Julie has been travelling the world for over 35 years. To say that Julie loves to travel off the beaten track would be an understatement! She’s explored Cuba, Bhutan, Laos, Madagascar, the Kalahari Desert, Tibet, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Cambodia, Vietnam, just to name a few. Julie’s latest adventure is to journey with Travel Indochina on the Trans Mongolian to the most famous of Mongolian festivals, the Naadam. For generations, Mongolian nomad tribes have gathered annually to compete in contests of physical strength and skill, known as Naadam. The highlight of the year, events are held throughout the country from stadiums in Ulaan Baatar to more intimate celebrations in provincial areas, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Originally a battle exclusively for men, today women and even children compete in archery, wrestling and horse-racing. Few tourists travel wild and rugged Mongolia. But you can, by joining Julie on an “Adventure of a Life Time”. Starting in Beijing on 29 June this year, you will travel by rail through China and Mongolia, meet nomadic families, swim in alpine lakes and ride rare camels through endless dunes. Discover a local project for the protection and reintroduction of Mongolian horses (Takhi) into the wild. Spend 16 captivating days living in nomadic Ger camps and sipping tea served with Yak milk. Even in Beijing you will escape

the tourist crowds, experiencing a remote section of the Great Wall of China called Jinshanling. Priced from $5,145 per person ex Beijing. Speak to Julie about adding a great airfare to China with Qantas or Cathay Pacific. Join Julie and Murray Christie from Travel Indochina for a film night on 10 Feb at 6pm. Take a sneak peek at this wild and wonderful country that has so recently opened up to the Western world. Film Night, Tuesday 10 February, 6pm, Park Beach Plaza Conference Centre. To reserve a spot: Call 6652 6555 Or visit our new website www.cfstravel.com.au

coffs coast focus.

A New for

Design studio 22

72 coffs coast focus focus.

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Design studio 22 Lyn and Richard Malcolm have been the owners of Design studio 22 here in Coffs Harbour, based in Edgar Street at the Jetty. Lyn is proud to announce some new exciting changes.

ony Ross, Andrew Wilson and myself have now formed a new company, design studio 22 Australia Pty Ltd, which will continue to trade as design studio 22, and we are planning on broadening our horizons. Richard will still be mentoring and consulting with the team and will be available for select projects, which will give him some well earned time to relax. Our new focus will be on more commercial work, given Tony and Andrewâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive background in this area; however, we will still very happily service our residential clients. I will be concentrating on expanding our profile in the Brisbane area with one week every month spent here in our head office. Kate, Jayne,Tracey, Ryan and Nick are a valuable part of our team and will definitely be a big part of our future expansion. We are certainly looking forward to a very creative and productive year, as we have some very positive changes happening here at our studio.

New Residential Heritage Renovation

Residential Renovation

New Commercial Design

brisbane t. 1300 657 662 coffs coast focus.

LYN MALCOLM DIRECTOR

s Director and owner, are you excited about the new direction that design studio 22 is taking? Forming the partnership with Tony and Andrew is an exciting and positive move and has injected some new vitality into the practice. During our 10 years of operation, we have built a firm foundation and established a great reputation in the Coffs Harbour area, for which Richard and I thank our talented design team and wonderful clients. With the new arrangement, Richard will still be mentoring and consulting with the team and will be available for select projects, which will give him some well earned time to relax. What do these changes mean to you and your business?

Tony and Andrew will be taking the reins in the general running of the Coffs Harbour head office, which will allow me to concentrate on further expansion of the practice throughout Northern NSW and into the Brisbane area. Tony and Andrew’s vast experience in the commercial field has already been of great benefit, with the successful completion of renovation projects in 2014 of the Coffs Harbour Regional Museum, All Nations Church at Woolgoolga and UnitingCare Ageing at Nambucca Heads, amongst others. We have always strived for professional delivery and exemplary service, and Tony, Andrew and I are planning on raising the bar even higher as we introduce more efficient, professional systems into our practice during 2015.

Proud Suppliers of

Design Studio 22

ROUD O F DP

ROUD OF DP

74 coffs coast focus.

Cetnaj Coffs Harbour 151 Orlando Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 6691 6100 | coffs.harbour@cetnaj.com.au | cetnaj.com.au

Design studio 22

Have your services expanded with your very experienced and professional team? Yes, we will still be servicing our very important residential clients, but now having two such experienced commercial design professionals as Directors will mean greater expansion into this area. We are now also able to offer more Contract Administration as part of our commercial and residential services, which gives greater security for our clients in ensuring their project is built to plan and economic considerations are kept in check. Does this mean that all budgets can be accommodated? We undertake projects from small hourly

rate interior design projects right up to multi million dollar commercial projects and all budgets in between. We are very proud of the broad range of projects we have undertaken over the past few years, with hundreds of our clients very happy to be living and working in their well designed, comfortable, efficient spaces. Testament to this is the number of referrals we receive and the industry recognition we have obtained over the years with many national and state design awards for commercial and residential renovation design, new home design, interior design, best use of space, energy efficiency, plus more.

“In summary, we are a “one stop shop” for all design needs and welcome enquiries regardless of the budget.”

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hat is your role at design studio 22? I have recently had a change of role, and I am very excited to now be a Director of design studio 22. This has been in the planning stage for a number of years and came to fruition late last year when Andrew Wilson, Lyn Malcolm and myself formed a new company, design studio 22 Australia Pty Ltd. I am also Principal Designer involved in Client and Council Liaison, Technical Review and Quality Control of documentation. I have been a member of Building Designers Australia, NSW Chapter, since 1999. I believe you have a strong family background in building and design - tell us about this ... I worked with my father, Barrie Ross, who had been working in architectural practices since 1964. I was a Director, Architectural Technician/ drafting and Project Manager with Ross Associates (architectural services) from 1990-2005. I had considerable opportunities and responsibilities early in my career, including visiting building sites and working alongside builders/services/trades. This gave me a good background in technical aspects and how buildings were constructed, plus the importance of communication and interpretation of clients’ expectations then applying this to the building and working alongside all the consultants and trades

Design studio 22

“I had considerable opportunities and responsibilities early in my career, including visiting building sites and working alongside builders/services/trades.”

TONY ROSS DIRECTOR

involved. Prior to forming his own practice, Barrie worked in Coffs Harbour, Kempsey, Grafton and Lismore with Richard & McDonald Architects in the 1960s, Reddacliff & Associates Architects in the 1970s and Allan Manning Richards Architects in the 1980s. Barrie, also a builder, added to and renovated all of our family homes. Building and design runs through my veins.

My brother, Jon, was a builder and still works on his own projects, and Andrew is an Electrician (Andrew Ross Electrical) and now my nephews are taking up a trade in the building and plumbing industries. What big projects around Coffs Harbour have you been involved in? John Paul College, Bishop Druitt College, Coffs Harbour Christian Community School and Youth Training Centre - Bonville, Mary Help of ChristiansSawtell, St Francis Xavier Primary - Woolgoolga, Coffs Harbour Museum - 2014 renovation. Additionally, St Columba Anglican School - Port Macquarie, Cathedral School - Grafton and many more commercial and residential projects. You are a big part of the new management direction. What do you love about being part of the team at design studio 22? We are a one-stop shop for design and documentation, incorporating architecture, interior and landscaping design into a holistic design package. Architectural design, from negotiating the purchase of a site to the completed building including consideration of building costs to development/building control guidelines. Interior design includes the selection and documentation of colours, fixtures, fittings and furnishings. Landscaping Design involves creative concepts following council guidelines right through to species selections. There are great benefits to working in a team; it’s creative and fun. I am finding that our industry is evolving and clients’ expectations are now for individual creative design and quality documentation delivered on time, so it is great to have a team you can rely on. Big appreciations go out to my mentors, Barrie Ross and Richard Malcolm. They have made me into a well-rounded designer and business owner. Thank you.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I spent a lot of time on building sites as a labourer when i was studying. I believe anyone studying architecture should try to do this. â&#x20AC;?

Design studio 22

hat is your role at design studio 22? My role is a little bit multi faceted. Aside from becoming a Director, I am a registered Architect and Disability Access Consultant, and the Nominated Architect for design studio 22. Along with Tony, I am one of the principal designers in the office, and I also write most of the specifications. Tony, Lyn and I also share the responsibility of quality control in the documentation we produce. What is your background and experience in this field? I was born and bred in Sydney, so being in a major city allowed me to cut my teeth on a good range of projects across many building types. However, just over ten years ago, due to the choking crowds and traffic in Sydney, the lure of the Coffs Coast was hard to resist when my wife, Melissa, and I had the first of our two boys. For me it was a massive sea change, but

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ANDREW WILSON DIRECTOR Melissa is a local who grew up in Nana Glen, so for her it was a welcome return home. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been lucky during my time in architecture in a number of ways. Firstly, I spent a lot of time on building sites as a labourer while I was studying. I believe anyone studying architecture should try and do this. I learnt a lot about how buildings are put together and also there are many ways to skin a cat; the trick is finding the best way. I have found this a huge advantage when going through the process of designing buildings. Secondly, I have worked in a number of offices of different size and speciality, which has given me a very broad and thorough grounding in the profession. Some of this was realised the hard way, with some of my former employers having the courage to chuck me straight in the deep end. It is a great way to learn fast, and they were always there to bail me out if needed. Thirdly, I have been lucky to have been

involved in such a diverse range of good projects, large and small. What kind of study is required to be a registered architect? It is quite a lengthy process to become a registered Architect. First you need to complete the Architecture Degree, which is about five and a half years at university. Once you become a graduate, you need to work under the guidance of a registered Architect and accumulate experience in all the facets of the profession by logging your time in a log book. Once you have achieved this, you become eligible to apply to the Architects Registration Board (ARB) to sit the registration exam, which is a three stage process consisting of your log book being approved, an interview with two representatives from the ARB who will ask you random questions to see how you respond to certain scenarios, and finally a written exam. I believe the average length of time taken to accumulate the required hours is seven years.

So to answer your question, it takes about twelve years to become a registered Architect. You are a big part of the new management direction. What do you love about being part of the team at design studio 22? I like the diversity of experience and skills that each member of the team brings to the table. It allows us to produce quality work across a broad range of building types, including single and multi residential, commercial, industrial, education, health and sporting facilities. Having a team of architects, building designers, interior designers and landscape designers all under one roof working collaboratively means we can produce an integrated design for the whole site, inside and out. We can do as much or as little as our clients wish, but we find our best results come when we are engaged to provide a total design service using all the disciplines in our team.

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ow long have you been an integral part of design studio 22, and what is your background and experience in your field? I have been part of the design studio 22 team for over eight years. I started studying interior design about 10 years ago; this was a new career direction for me as although I had always been creative and loved design, my university studies took me in a different direction. Over the years I had project managed many renovations and new builds and when the need for a career change came about, I knew it was time to follow that dream. I had my own colour consultancy business for a couple of years and also did colour selections for a local building company and when Richard and Lyn first decided to start design studio 22, I was keen to be a part of an exciting expanding business and the growth of a dynamic team. In the last 10 years I have been the interior designer on hundreds of projects, including commercial projects like the Edge Real Estate, The Coffs Harbour Museum, and All Nations Church. Many residential new builds and renovations, refurbishment of restaurants, doctors’ surgeries and aged care facilities, all invaluable experience that I take with me to every new project. “The old saying of TWO heads are better than one ... well, What do you love about being part of the team at half a dozen creative minds in one room is always a fun and design studio 22? rewarding ride that I am privileged to take almost every day. ” Being part of a creative team is a real gift; we share soon discovered that when I wore my artificial arm I could hold the nail ideas, we find solutions together. The old saying of two with my metal hook and bang those nails in risk free. We also had a large heads are better than one ... well, half a dozen creative minds in one flat concrete pipe that went through our back yard, and my sisters and I room is always a fun and rewarding ride that I am privileged to take would draw floor plans on the pipe and walk through the rooms, drawing almost every day. on pieces of furniture. So I suppose it was something that was fun and When did you first realise you were creative and had a passion for came naturally to me. design? As I got older, I loved decorating things, creating a pink and purple My dad was a carpenter, and I loved “helping him” in his garage. I room when I was a teenager (well, it was the ‘70s) and when I first was always hammering nails into pieces of “four be twos” (4 inch x 2 moved out of home I made our lounge room a snooker room with bar inch timber) wanting to build something, create something. As I only had decked out in red and black; gee, you had to love the ‘80s! one hand, I would hold the nail between my toes to hammer it in, but I

KATE LANE Interior Designer

Design studio 22

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JAYNE CHUDZIK Interior Designer

hat is your role at design studio 22? My role at design studio 22 is to work with and assist clients in creating a comfortable, functional and visually pleasing environment that meets their personal needs and requirements within budget constraints, incorporating favourite pieces and addressing their new vision for their living or working space. What is your background and experience in this field?

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“Design studio 22 service a broad range of clientele and collectively can meet the most challenging or simplest of design briefs, and our services extend far beyond Coffs Harbour.”

I have been working in the interior design field for 30 years, covering all facets of the industry, including commercial, residential, education, aged care and health projects. The strong desire to work in this career path began at a very early age, when I would recycle neighbours’ paling fences, along with raiding left over material from building sites into wonderful tree house creations in our street. Who can access your services? Who do you mainly work with in the Coffs region?

My services can be accessed by builders, plumbers, electricians, tilers, related retail outlets, renovators, new home builders or retail/commercial outfit clients. design studio 22 service a broad range of clientele and collectively can meet the most challenging or simplest of design briefs, and our services extend far beyond Coffs Harbour. For example, we have created wonderful designs working from our Coffs studio for clients renovating their homes on the Central Coast and in Melbourne, as well as new home

and unit designs in the Byron and Lismore areas, with many projects right through the Gold Coast and onto Brisbane. What do you love about being part of the team at design studio 22? Being part of the design studio 22 team is so engaging and addresses a holistic approach to all our projects; the communication and vibrancy of the team creates an ideal place to be creative and abundant with ideas and philosophies that meet our clients’ needs.

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Design studio 22

NICK RADFORD ENVIRONMENTAL LANDSCAPE DESIGNER

hat is your role at design studio 22? I work as part of the holistic design team and my abilities cover a broad range of environmental design, including landscape design, erosion control, bush regeneration, koala habitat management, bushfire asset protection management, on site water collection and treatment as well as eco house design. My role is flexible and often customised to suit

individual projects. When doing landscape design Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll plant for summer shade, winter sun, screening, beauty and appropriately sized plants for safety and buildings. Included in all of this are measures for sustainability. This includes mixed, diverse native plants for habitat and biodiversity. By using species suited to the area, plants have minimal requirements of watering, fertilising and general care. What is your background and experience

in this field? I have formally studied a number of different related disciplines including Architecture, Horticulture, Permaculture, organic farming and I have a degree in Environmental Science. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been designing, building and gardening for about twenty years. What big projects around Coffs Harbour have you been involved in? It has been great to work with the other

designers on many large projects including: Subdivisions ranging in size from small to about 20 units. The Bellingen Community Learning Centre for Sustainability on Bat Island. The new Coffs Harbour Regional Museum. Roof gardens at UnitingCare aged care facility at Nambucca Heads. A community garden at Nambucca Heads. Environmentally sustainable landscape design for Brooms Head Caravan Park.

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Coffs Harbour Hardwoods - a family based, owned and operated company. The McCarthys have been supplying timber products nationally and internationally since the business was established by timber merchant and world champion axeman Ray McCarthy in 1961 â&#x20AC;Ś

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RAY MCCARTHY - WORLD CHAMPION.

WATERFRONT POLE TRIMMER IN THE â&#x20AC;&#x2122;80S

ake us back to the beginning ... Ray McCarthy was part of a long line of the McCarthys who were heavily involved in timber as far back as the 1850s, when pioneering and Cedar getting was a mainstay of many North Coast families. Ray was a timber agent who was mainly shipping timber across the Tasman for the New Zealand timber trade. When things started slowing down, it was evident that he needed to find new markets, and in 1961 Coffs Harbour Hardwoods was formed to concentrate more on the domestic market. The company was able to find contracts from the RTA for bridges, Port Authorities for piling and girders and also sleepers and poles for State Rail. Ray formed the company at a time when the timber industry was still an integral part of the port at Coffs Harbour - and had been since

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the beginning of the 20th Century. The port was finally closed in the 1970s. Some people may remember when the Jetty itself was a lot longer than what it is today and with large cranes on it to move cargo and passengers onto ships. Up until that time, Coffs Harbour Hardwoods was a major presence in the jetty area, exporting poles to New Zealand on coastal trader ships such as the Abel Tasman, which was a regular visitor to the then busy port. The final shipment to leave the port was a consignment of piles from Coffs Harbour Hardwoods bound for Indonesia. Port redevelopments at Coffs Harbour in the 1980s saw the company relocate to the village of Glenreagh. Ray had acquired land, and this made the task of moving much simpler, with a larger site necessary to the future growth and expansion of the business.

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The McC arthy family have d had a long anto ry is h ed esteem e er h er b m ti with ast o C h on the Nort of NSW. ”

“ What was Glenreagh like in the early days? How have you seen the region change? Glenreagh was first settled in 1858, when John Campbell Shannon built “Glen Righ” homestead on his sheep and cattle run. Gold was discovered on upper Tallawudjah Creek in 1881, but the rush was short-lived and was over by the turn of the century. A few of the miners saw potential in the area and settled, cleared the land and with others, assisted in building a community. Glenreagh became known as a timber town, rather than for its brief history of gold. Railways

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were spreading out over the state, and there was a demand for sleepers and girders. Bullock wagons well loaded travelled to South Grafton, from where the timber was sent by boat to Sydney. The main North Coast Line from Brisbane to Sydney wasn't completed until 1922. Glenreagh was a town that had quite a number of sawmills around the district; these sawmills extended along the Glenreagh to Dorrigo rail line. Glenreagh was the main hub, with a siding at its rail station and a large locomotive turntable to orientate the engines for shunting and directional departing.

Ray McCarthy spent time in Glenreagh and decided to buy land in the area during the '80s. The land on Tallawudjah Creek Road is now the site of all the timber processing that the business carries out, which is adjacent to Tallawudjah Creek where the gold rush originally took place in the 1800s. How many family members are involved with the business? What is your history

with timber? The McCarthy family have had a long and esteemed history with timber here on the North Coast of NSW. The area has always been and still is one of Australia’s best for growing good quality hardwood timber. This made it a common choice amongst early settlers in the area to make a living from. Not only did Ray choose timber as a form of employment, but so did many of his McCarthy relatives before him - who were not only

C o f f s successful in their everyday timber trade, but they were also very successful in the sport of wood chopping. Ray won a world championship in 1957 and had in previous years won the prestigious Britstand Trophy at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. This trophy is presented to the most successful competitor in all the single handed events. Ray’s uncle, Manny McCarthy, was 23 when he won his first championship at the Sydney Show; he went on to win the world championship title 27 times and now has one of the world championship events named in memory of his feats and long service to wood chopping. Coffs Harbour Hardwoods is now owned by Ray McCarthy’s five sons, John, Bill, Garry, Dennis and Harry. When Ray passed away in 2000, Garry took over as the General Manager of the business, which had now grown in size. These five brothers have helped the business grow into what it is today; they have poured well over 100 years of blood, sweat and tears into making it successful. Of the five brothers who have grown the business, there are eight of their children: Scott, Shane, Rob, Neal, Martin, Phil, Ryan and more recently, Stacey, involved in all facets of the business. We’ve tried to utilise the family across the business to ensure that there is a good spread of knowledge and skills in all the different departments. The company has recently employed three members of the sixth generation of the McCarthy family, and it’s likely that this number will grow in the future. We hope to continue our family name with the business for many years to come. How has the business developed in the past 50 years? What challenges has the industry faced, and how have you overcome these problems? There have been numerous challenges over the years that the company has faced, that have been difficult to say the least. In the 1970s, a large amount of power poles where being produced for the State Electricity Commission of Victoria;

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poles treated with creosote were later discontinued, giving a greater demand for de-sapped poles. The company made and installed its own de-sapping planer machine on our previous site to where it is today in Glenreagh; the site was at the Jetty foreshore in the now vacant area on your left as you head towards the marina at Coffs Jetty. This site would have been a dream to work at nowadays. However, due to the increase in demand from markets in Sydney and Melbourne, it was decided that this location would not be able to suit our needs well into the future, so we decided to move the business to Glenreagh, west of Coffs Harbour, to allow for a second planer machine and more space to store stock. In the mid to late 1980s, the company faced further challenges, with the market for de-sapped poles declining; CCA treated poles were now the more accepted product due to their lifespan, and so in 1989 the company commissioned a CCA treatment plant for treating its poles. Although logistically it is a drive for most of us each day, the site at Glenreagh gives us a lot more freedom to grow. Further issues we faced stemmed from tighter government regulations and gaining access to timber that had become locked up in National Parks and other regulated areas. We built our own sawmill in 1994 into a larger, more efficient way to cut timber for bridges and wharves. We have also faced challenges from things like bridges being converted from timber to concrete use. This had slowed down the demand for this product; we still produce this product for historical listed bridges, but we had to find new products to saw some of this timber into. We have had to adapt with the times, and in 1996 we built a large board plant and timber drying kilns for doing dressed timber products like flooring and decking, as well as other profiles such as weatherboards and lining boards. This upgrade to our company has made significant changes to what type of products we can create from our timber.

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In the early 2000s the board plant was extended to twice its size, as well as two more drying kilns being installed. In 2013 we were given the green light from Clarence Valley Council to increase its size again. Anther challenge we have faced was the need for reliable transport of our products; in the early days it was getting the timber from the bush to the yard at the jetty foreshore, then from the yard onto the ships docked at the jetty. This then progressed to using trucks and the problems we faced getting our timber to a job on time. With the growth in the business and supply contracts, we’ve had to increase our fleet of trucks to ensure that our products arrive when required. Today we have 10 semi-trailers and a rigid truck with a crane for local deliveries. You employ many people … how would you describe the culture of your 90 strong team? Yes, we do have a large number of staff - ap-

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We built our own sawmill in 199m4ore into a larger, to cut efficient way dges timber for bri” and wharves.

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proximately 90 employees. With such a big processing facility, we need a lot of people to make it all happen. It’s almost like our own little town; there is a great culture here of people who want to see growth and innovation. We’re trying all the time to make our service better by making our operations more efficient; as the timber industry is so fragile, we need to ensure we do things correctly so we’re here for the long haul and our staff, their families and the local community are looked after. Our organisation is made up of several different areas that service all the different aspects of our business. We have three core functions to the business that all supply timber for different purposes; there are specialised jobs for these sections along with our labourers, who all contribute greatly to our everyday operation.

But with such a large amount of fixed and mobile machinery to make all of our operation work effectively, we have to have staff that can service, repair and operate some of this machinery. That is why we have our maintenance guys, mechanics, kiln operators, truck drivers, forklift operators, administration staff: all of these people are vital to making the business function, along with the people who are processing the timber. What services do you offer both residentially and commercially? Our business is a diverse one; as I mentioned earlier, we have several different departments that all process timber in different forms and for different applications.

We have a number of contracts for commercial jobs that are for sectors like electricity distribution, waterways, roads, rail and general construction projects. This part of the business is our bread and butter; it gives us some security knowing that we have a contract to commit to. This all helps to manage what timber we cut and what we need to obtain from our logging crews, forestry or other suppliers and helps us forecast for a number of years what type of timbers we need to buy. Some of the products these sectors use are things like power poles, which are usually supplied to the major power companies around Australia for the distribution of electricity, cross arms; they’re the pieces of timber that are on a power pole that the wires sit on. We supply large structural timbers for things like bridges, wharves and jetties; our timber has been used in previous years for projects like repairs on Coffs Jetty, Tathra Jetty on the south coast of NSW, K1 Winery - South Australia, Walsh Bay

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CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE - WWW.COFFSHARDWOODS.COM.AU

Development - Sydney, and Howard Smith Wharves Restoration - Brisbane. These are just some of the projects we’ve been involved in. These jobs generally require large pieces of timber that only a certain number of companies in Australia are able to supply in locally grown hardwoods; that is our strength and keeps us at the top of the list when it comes to supply for the bigger projects. We have recently also done a lot of commercial projects that are more on the smaller scale and are more for the visual aspect rather than the structural aspect or in some cases, both. A few years back we were able to acquire the services of Maree and Russell Landrigan, previously of Coramba Timbers; with their experience, it gave us the opportunity to start a joinery section in the business.This made us very diverse in what we can make with a piece of timber, whether it be a power pole or a small “wood turned” timber handle.

The new redevelopments at Coffs Central have a few of our jobs that we’ve supplied, such as the bench tops in the eatery or the large whale sculpture designed and manufactured by local artist Stefan Bruggisser. Our advantage over off the shelf timbers is that we can supply something unique that may not be available elsewhere and that we can make to suit the final application perfectly. For the residential projects, we supply the standard items like hardwood flooring and decking in a range of species, grades and sizes. We can also supply all your other timbers like stairs, handrails, posts and something that has become a big trend now (due to shows like The Block) the feature wall. We have a big wholesale market in the capital cities, but we are now focusing our efforts on increasing what we can do for the local market here in Coffs and the surrounding areas. If we don’t have a product that suits what our

customers want, then we are able to source from our distribution network of suppliers. We are looking at opening up a specialised hardwood timber outlet in Lawson Crescent, Coffs Harbour in the not too distant future; it’s something that we realise is needed in Coffs Harbour to service builders and the local public. We aim to provide products that our customers want, so we will keep a good range of hardwood products in both structural and visually suitable timbers. We’re excited about this venture taking place and hope the community can support a locally owned business that likes to invest back into community groups and sporting organisations. How important is considering the environment in your line of business? The environment is very important to us; we understand that in an ever changing world it is important to develop and evolve into a business

that accepts its environmental footprint should be kept to a minimum on our landscape. We are committed to sustainable forestry management and have had a long heritage of not only living and working in the forests of the NSW North Coast, but also a practical understanding and love of the bush that inspires a desire to use its resources wisely. Sustainable Forest management (i.e. not harvesting faster than the forest can regrow and not destroying its ability to maintain its productive capacity) allows the environmental and economic value of the forests to be sustained indefinitely. As well as giving desirable environmental and altruistic outcomes, sustainable forest management is good for Coffs Harbour Hardwoods, as it allows a continuing forest resource that the company needs for the sought-after products it produces.

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Timber and forests are a unique resource in that (unlike the extractive industries and other building materials) timber harvested sustainably will replenish itself and provide significant environmental and aesthetic benefits while it is replenishing. Sustainable forest management can provide society with definite benefits, at the same time as providing resources for the timber industry. Industry and governments seek to ensure that Sustainable Forest Management is achieved by various means, including regulations, certification schemes, and codes of practice. Logs and poles used in producing CHH products are sourced from either: Private property forests that have been harvest-

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ed under the NSW Code of Practice for Private Native Forestry controlled by NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change. Forestry Commission of NSW t/as Forests NSW, which is certified under the Australian Forest Certification Scheme (AFCS Cert No 13761). Both the above sources use recognised protocols for ensuring timber supplies are from native timber resources that are legally and sustainably managed. What is the most satisfying part of the business? We would have to say that one of the most satisfying parts of the business is seeing the end result of our hard work, from the day we first have

an order land on our desk, to the day it leaves; some of these jobs give you a lot of satisfaction, knowing where they’ll end up. We have either delivered first hand or received feedback from some of our distributors as to where some of our jobs finish. Some of Australia’s most well-known icons such as the Sydney Opera House or Parliament House in Canberra have our timber inside. We’ve also done hardwood floors that have been sent to Austria, to high rises in Honolulu, and we've sent decking to Japan. We have done a huge bridge restoration at Tharwa Bridge in the ACT, along with many others around NSW. Some of the bigger projects we’ve also done surround our waterways, in-

cluding Sydney Harbour, Newcastle Harbour and the new Howard Smith Wharf restoration on the Brisbane River. Locally we’ve had the pleasure of doing things like the Giidany Miilarl cultural education space at Muttonbird Island, the feature posts that surround the picnic benches at the jetty foreshore and the whale watch platform at Woolgoolga headland. Receiving awards has also been satisfying; over the years Coffs Harbour Hardwoods has received awards for a number of our products, like being the number one supplier and other awards for the quality of our timber. This is what we hang our hat on, and we intend to continue this standard today and into the future.

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