Coffs Coast Focus i91 by Focus

COFFS COAST

April 2018. issue 91

1 coffs coast focus.

UNE OPEN DAY

Friday 11 May 2018 Check out our courses, meet lecturers and get a feel for campus life. Friday is your day to ask lots of questions, explore the UNE campus and ďŹ nd out everything you need to know about going to university.

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Welcome to the April issue of Coffs Coast FOCUS.

SALES MANAGER Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

COORDINATOR / ADVERTISING CONSULTANT

Nicci Seccombe

nicole@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Pippa Tabone pippa@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING CONSULTANT Lace Browning lace@focusmag.com.au

ART DIRECTOR Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR DESIGNER Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGN/PHOTOGRAPHY 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 Robinson rnrmedia@bigpond.com

PHOTOGRAPHY/EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Gavin

Moroney gavin.moroney@fairfaxmedia.com.au

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 2015 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

e had such a fabulous time getting this month’s edition together! This month’s front cover really sets the tone, featuring our favourite local couple, Alice Williams and Darren Smith. The couple share a residence on their farm in Sapphire. Darren is the founder and chief farmer at New Life Farm, a local farm that produces 100% organically grown, chemical and spray free produce, eggs and compost (among other things). Alice is the sales and marketing specialist for her family business, Axis IQ. The couple invited the FOCUS team out for some Friday afternoon delights, which included meeting their wool baby, Soy Boy the sheep. It is safe to say Carole was in her element, following Soy Boy from one end of the farm to the other. If you are wondering where Alice picked up that stunning dress, pop out to Le Dãin Designs in Sawtell and grab one for yourself. We would like to give

thanks to all involved in yet another cracker front cover: Carole Beros, our front cover stylist, Tia and Kate from Living Doll Premier Stylists, Norco Rural Bellingen for your help with the hay bales and of course, Alice and Daz … We really love you guys! Inside this edition We are pleased to introduce you to the new Head Chef of Velvets Restaurant at Two Tails Wines, the talented Jodie Thornber. Jodie has an extensive background in cookery, with many years of experience as Russell Crowe’s very own Head Chef! Velvets is very lucky to have bagged such a well travelled and experienced chef, and we can’t wait to see what’s on her menu! Carobana is an iconic and longstanding local business, started here in Coffs in 1982 by the Hamey family. FOCUS spoke to Ian Hamey, son of Ed and Em, who started the business, about the history of Carobana Confectionery and how they have managed to evolve the family business from banana farming to dried fruit to confectionery.

Young and Successful To be successful, entrepreneurs really have beaten the odds - especially young entrepreneurs. Starting with almost no wealth, network or business experience, many create more success in a few years than most people do in their entire lifetime. FOCUS presents to you a showcase of the many talented young business people who live, work and play on the Coffs Coast. Next Month Women’s’ Health Feature. FOCUS will showcase the yearly guide specifically created for women - combining information about nutrition, fitness, weight management, lifestyle, beauty concerns, pregnancy and prenatal care, ageing health and much more … We can’t wait to present this to you. Final Say: “Your value does not decrease based on someone’s inability to see your worth” Unknown.

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issue inside this

Darren Smith.

Issue 91 - April 2018

Darren Smith is the founder and chief farmer at New Life Farm, a local farm that produces 100% organically grown, chemical and spray free produce, eggs and compost (among other things). He tells us all about the family run property, what drives them to farm the way they do and their goals for the future.

Paula Whiteway. Paula Whiteway is someone who has a long list of creative achievements. Predominantly she is a set designer in the film and television industry, but she is also a trained architect, an illustrator, sculptor, graphic designer, painter - the list goes on!

Regulars 18. WHAT’S ON APRIL 26. EAT FEATURING LOCAL RESTAURANTS 48. SOCIAL SCENE CAROLE BEROS 55. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI

Co-Opera “The Barber”.

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focusinterview.

Carobana Ian Hamey.

Carobana is an iconic and longstanding local business, started here in Coffs in 1982 by the Hamey family. FOCUS spoke to Ian Hamey, son of Ed and Em who started the business, about the history of Carobana Confectionery and how they have managed to evolve the family business from banana farming to dried fruit to confectionery.

i Ian. What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born here in 1944. Carobana was born here in 1982 with the Hamey family and the banana industry. What's some of the history behind Carobana Confectionery? Ed and Em Hamey, newlyweds from Dorrigo, arrived in Coffs in 1936. They worked very hard for two years, saving money to purchase the land here in 1938 and planted bananas. They built a home, and had one child - me. One year their bananas were attacked by fruit bats, and skin damaged fruit was still edible but not saleable. Some of the fruit was ripened, peeled and dried on trays under the packing shed roof, and became dried bananas. These were introduced into a local health food shop, where sales of the dried fruit took off. And so, the drying factory was built, with six driers going 24/7. Em did a value add of the dried banana by melting a block of Carob, because she was allergic to Cocoa. Small pieces of dried banana were dipped in the carob, and Carobana was born! With a price downturn in growing fresh bananas because of increased output in Queensland, our efforts turned to the dried fruit - contract carob coating at first, but the purchase of a second hand enrobing machine saw us enter the health food market in a much bigger way. With the coated bananas already established in the shops, it was a simple progression into other coated and cluster lines. We eventually closed the drying business and removed the driers. This gave us space to grow in a different direction. Carobana then opened to the public, with viewing of production and a shop to tempt the taste buds. 6 Coffs Coast focus

What does a typical THE ENDORPHINS day hold for you at GIVE AN UPLIFTING Carobana? There is no such thing as EFFECT. IF YOU a typical day here. Every day ARE NOT ALLERGIC and every week is different. TO CHOCOLATE, My day starts the night made in the workshop. YOU CAN ENJOY before (if we need to coat) 6pm: evening meal, in lighting the boiler fire BOTH CHOCOLATE then back to the that heats the melting AND CAROB. MORE workshop, working on equipment for production. different projects. CHOICES. We work with three 9pm to 10pm: varieties of carob and three bedtime. varieties of chocolate. Both How did you learn have to be kept separate. carob making? At 6:30am I stoke the fire again and make A friend with previous experience in the sure all the equipment is working properly. Then confectionery industry seemed to appear at the breakfast. right time. He helped put the machine (1920s At 7:30 am: collect raw ingredients from the model) and cooling tunnel together and knew dry store, or start roasting coconut if necessary. how it worked. He taught me how to use and If honeycomb is to be made, kitchen one has repair it. to be prepared. What has been the hardest part of the Other staff members arrive and slot in to what process for you to master? has to be done for the day (a full team effort). The carob making and machinery repair have About 8:30am the cooling tunnel has to be been easy compared with honeycomb making. It connected to the coating machine (enrober), and took me 18 months to two years to get it right! the air conditioner is started to cool the tunnel Kitchen temperature affects the product and down to 18Â°C. some natural ingredients are variable; it is still an I could spend the best part of the day putting ongoing learning experience. The boys are very product through the enrober or the cluster much aware of the slight differences and adjust machine or the button depositing machine, each mix as they go to maintain quality products. dropping product onto the belt. How do you come up with new ideas for 12:30pm: lunch. different recipes? 1:30pm to 3:30pm: either back on to Customers, retail and wholesale, have often production or start cleaning the enrobing room. triggered a flurry of excitement in developing The cluster machine is taken outside to the wash new lines. down area and hosed down with hot water from What are some of the main differences the boiler. between carob and chocolate? 4pm: I go to the house for a power nap and Chocolate is made from the fermented seeds then I am in the workshop, either repairing or of a tropical plant. developing new equipment as needed. Most of the equipment and some of the machines are In cocoa there is caffeine, oxalic acid,

and theobromine; it is nicely addictive. The endorphins give an uplifting effect. If you are not allergic to chocolate, you can enjoy both chocolate and carob. More choices. Carob is made from the crushed empty pod of a large dry climate bean tree. It contains 60% sugar in four forms: sucrose, glucose, fructose and pinitol, twice the calcium of milk, heaps of fibre, veggie protein, it's high in pectin, vitamins A, three of the Bs, C and D. Minerals - phosphorus, potassium, iron, magnesium, copper, and manganese. It also contains a natural growth hormone and a natural antibiotic. On the acid/alkaline scale, carob powder is 10.5, so carob powder is alkaline, good for upset tummies and western diets. Can be used the same as chocolate in cooking and drinks. Do you have a favourite type of Carobana Confectionery? Honeycomb Nibbles - only in small bites. Where can people find Carobana Confectionery on the Coffs Coast? Here at the factory has the biggest choice. Other places are Health & Happiness at Park Beach Plaza; Affordable Wholefoods; The Happy Frog and Harbour Sweets in town; The Big Banana; The Honey Place, Urunga; Nourished Earth, Moonee; Go Vita, Toormina. Come and visit us at 125 James Small Dr, Korora. Check out our site www.carobana.com.au or call us on 6653 6051. Thanks Ian.

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focusinterview.

Rebecca Gilbert is a young and inspiring local who has recently completed her yoga teacher training in India and is now teaching yoga here in Coffs Harbour. After discovering yoga practice in her teens and finding it had a hugely positive impact on her life, she is now motivated to pass that positivity on to others through teaching the practice and also by running a weekly class that is by donation only, the proceeds of which go directly to a cause that is close to Rebecca’s heart.

Rebecca GILBERT YOGA INSTRUCTOR

an you tell us a bit about what it was like growing up on the Coffs Coast? I was privileged enough to grow up in Karangi, a small valley outside of Coffs Harbour. I spent my childhood riding horses and dirt bikes with my neighborhood friends. I’m glad I spent my childhood rolling around in dirt and eating worms; it shaped me to be an adventurous and open minded person. The Coffs Coast is a beautiful place to grow up; there’s a balance between city and country, which I believe is a perfect combination. We believe you have recently completed your yoga teacher training in India. Can you tell us about the experience? Overall, my experience in India was incredible. I had never travelled alone before, so I was looking forward to experiencing a real sense of independence. At Kranti Yoga School I completed my 200 hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training. Our daily schedule was two hours of Ashtanga yoga, an hour of meditation; after that we would spend the day learning body alignment, philosophy, anatomy, teaching methodology, and in the afternoon we had a workshop. It was a challenging month. There were 25 people in my course. I thoroughly enjoyed the company of likeminded people who shared the same passion. We shared so much laughter and so many tears together; we all worked as a team to support and motivate each other and even from across

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BY RAISING AWARENESS

yoga. I walked out of my the globe, we continue AND FUNDS, I HOPE first yoga class and said, to share our love and THAT I CAN HELP TO “I want to become a happiness. yoga teacher”. It was just Are there any stand BRING US CLOSER an idea for a long time, out moments from TO A CURE BEFORE until I graduated school. your time in India? IT DRAMATICALLY I made the decision to I will always hold AFFECTS MORE LIVES. travel to India to complete on to the memory of my training. I set a date, meditating during a planned where I’d venture particular Yin yoga to and how much it would class before our final cost, and two years later on the date I had set, relaxation pose. We practiced alternate nostril I flew to India. Growing up, my parents always breathing and then were given the opportunity told me that I should do something that I love, to rest in Shavasana or continue sitting; I and so I’ve stuck by that. continued to sit. I have never been the best at You are now teaching a community yoga keeping a clear mind whilst sitting still, but in class in Coffs Harbour that is donation that moment I was able to master it. There are based. Can you tell us a bit about how that no words to describe what I felt and I haven’t works and what the donation supports? returned to that meditative state again, but Every Sunday morning at One Conscious I continue trying to reach that happy place Breath Yoga Studio, I teach a general one hour within. Vinyasa flow class from 9:30. The class gives What sort of effect has yoga practice had me the opportunity to build my experience on your life? and confidence as a teacher, as well as raising I was introduced to yoga in the rebellious, money and awareness for a great cause. In the awkward, troubled teen stage of my life. I last month I was able to raise over $300. connected with my practice instantly, which Jasmine and the team at One Conscious led to the development of a healthy and happy Breath have been so lovely to welcome me and lifestyle. Yoga has always been my safe place. take me under their wing. My practice is a time where I can turn inwards My class is donation based, and all donations and forget about what is happening around go towards the Amyloidosis foundation. me. Amyloidosis is a disease in which abnormal What made you want to become a yoga proteins (amyloid) are resistant to being broken teacher? down. As a consequence, the amyloid proteins From my very first practice I fell in love with

deposit and accumulate in the body’s tissue and organs, causing the organs to be unable to function properly. You can find more information at http:// www.amyloidosis.org.uk/about-amyloidosis/ What inspired you to support that particular cause? This cause holds a very special place in my heart. My grandmother passed away due to this disease in her 40s. At the time, Amyloidosis was rarely heard of. In 2001, my mother’s liver ruptured, caused by what we soon learned was a type of hereditary Amyloidosis. She was fortunate enough to receive a life saving liver transplant, but continues to suffer from the disease, which means she will soon require a kidney transplant. My eldest sister and I carry the gene. By raising awareness and funds, I hope that I can help to bring us closer to a cure, before it dramatically affects more lives. What else can the community do to support this cause? To donate directly to the Amyloidosis Foundation, you can visit http://amyloidosis.org/ act/donate/ or simply spend an hour of your Sunday morning with me at One Conscious Breath; all donations go directly to support this cause. I also encourage everyone to register at https://register.donatelife.gov.au/ to become an organ donor. Be a gift that keeps on giving. Thanks Rebecca.

Persian Rugs Centre C O F F S

H A R B O U R

Persian Rugs Centre Coffs Harbour can offer retail and wholesale of beautiful rugs. They accept your own design to make special Turkish machine-made rugs of the finest quality, as well as crafting beautiful hand-made Persian rugs. They are a direct importer of these beautiful rugs, which means they can offer up to 40% off the recommended retail price. They also offer a cleaning and repair service, to ensure your rug stands the test of time.

OCUS sat down with Ahmad from the Persian Rugs Centre to find out about his beautiful rugs, where they’re made, how they’re made

and Iran (historically known as Persia). Carpet weaving is an essential part of Persian culture and Iranian art. The patterns and designs have set an artistic tradition for

and everything in between ...

court manufacturing, which was kept alive

Can you tell us a little bit more about

during the entire duration of the Persian

your beautiful hand-made Persian rugs?

Empire up to the last royal dynasty of Iran.

Our hand-made Persian rugs are made in

You have a vast range of amazing

Afghanistan and Iran. The majority of the

machine-made rugs too. Can you tell

Persian rugs we stock are made of a wool

us more about these rugs, how they’re

and wool, wool and cotton, wool and silk,

made, and what you have on offer?

or silk and silk blend.

Machine-made rugs are made in Turkey

A Persian rug, also known as Iranian carpet,

using a large machine called a power loom.

is a heavy textile produced in Afghanistan

A power loom is electrically automated

and controlled by computers. Machine made rugs can be made quickly and are manufactured with materials including wool and synthetic fibres such as polypropylene, nylon, polyester, acrylic and art silk. Machine-made rugs can offer a lower price alternative to hand knotted rugs, with

defined quality between knots per square metre. Where can we find out more? You can pop in and see us at 1/57 Grafton Street or visit: persianrugscenter.com.au email us at persianrugscentre@gmail.com or call us on 5698 5285 or 0470 766 036.

Coffs Coast focus 9

focusinterview.

Zara Coffs Harbour Showgirl 2017 ZARA BECKETT IS FROM A LOCAL FAMILY THAT HAS BEEN A PART OF THE COFFS COAST COMMUNITY FOR FOUR GENERATIONS. She is currently the Coffs Harbour Showgirl 2017, an inspiring young ambassador for the Coffs Coast, as well as being a passionate advocate for agriculture and conservation of our native environment.

i Zara. Tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast? My family has lived in Coffs Harbour for four generations. I was born here and attended Bishop Druitt College from Kindergarten until I completed Year 12 last year, and now I work and study here. I was a Nipper with Coffs Harbour Surf Club from six years old, completing my Bronze Medallion and becoming a fully-fledged volunteer life saver. The Beckett family have a well-known reputation for volunteering and getting involved in the community. My grandfather was a former Deputy Mayor, and the "Beckett Arena" at the Coffs Harbour Showground is a dedication to the tireless support my grandmother has given the Coffs Harbour Show Society. Coffs Harbour is as much a part of me as I am of it. The history of Coffs and my family will always be connected, and I hope to add to that history by being a part of its future. You were awarded Coffs Harbour Showgirl 2017. What was it like taking out the event? When I was first awarded Coffs Harbour Showgirl of 2017, I was both shocked and thrilled. I honestly didn’t expect to receive this honour, but am so proud to be an ambassador for the Coffs Coast and to have the privilege to represent this beautiful place we are fortunate enough to call home. What inspired you to become a Showgirl? A family friend encouraged me to enter 10 Coffs Coast focus

the competition. Initially, I saw it as a good out at different stalls and activities and in the opportunity to improve and practice my Grand Parade. presentation and interview skills in preparation You recently represented Coffs Harbour in for life after the HSC. I also thought it would zone for the Showgirls competition. How be wonderful to continue a family tradition by did you go in the event, and how much being the fourth generation of my family to planning was involved? be actively involved in the show. After I learnt The Zone 1 Final for the Sydney Royal Easter more about what it entailed, I decided that Showgirl Competition was a terrific event it was also an excellent hosted by the Wauchope way to meet new people Show Committee. and give back to my local Unfortunately I wasn’t community. selected to go on to What does it take to the Sydney Royal Show, IT EMPOWERS YOUNG be a Showgirl, and but it was an incredible WOMEN TO ACTIVELY how much training is experience. I met so PARTICIPATE IN THEIR involved? many wonderful people Honestly, you just have who are passionate LOCAL COMMUNITY AND to register and give it about making a positive PROMOTE THE CRITICAL a go. You receive all of difference in their ROLE OF AGRICULTURE the support and training local communities. I IN OUR FUTURE. you need as a part of did do quite a bit of the experience. In the preparation, learning lead up to the Coffs about agriculture and Harbour Show there are politics on a local and a number of events and activities, including national scale, as well as working on my public an information session, personal presentation speaking and presentation skills. Fortunately I workshops, a Coffs Harbour education session had the support of several generous people, and public speaking tips. You then attend including Mel Crossland, Gina Szary, Meg an interview, where you are asked general Austin and Sam Wardman. knowledge questions about the Coffs Coast, Now that you are an ambassador for the politics, agriculture and yourself. Finally, Coffs Coast, what roles will you have to a Mocktail Party provides an opportunity take through the year? for entrants to mix and mingle with each I have had the opportunity to attend and other and the judges, and demonstrate your support two fantastic High Tea fundraising networking skills. All entrants participate as events for Joyland Carers Retreat. I sashed ambassadors at the show itself by helping competitors at last year’s show and personally

visited and thanked our wonderful sponsors. I have met with local farmers and attended other agricultural shows. Given all that I have learned over the past 12 months, I will now continue to be an Ambassador by actively participating in the Show Committee to help preserve and improve our local show. What advice would you give other girls wanting to become a Showgirl? The Showgirl competition is a fantastic opportunity for young women to learn about presentation, confidence and Coffs Harbour’s rich history. It empowers young women to actively participate in their local community and promote the critical role of agriculture in our future. It’s also a lot of fun! When you're not up on stage, what do you enjoy doing here on the Coffs Coast? I enjoy working at Dolphin Marine Magic as a Marine Assistant and am just in the middle of completing an Animal Studies Course at TAFE and my WIRES accreditation. So needless to say, I am passionate about helping with the conservation and rehabilitation of our native animals. I also love heading outdoors with family and friends to explore our beautiful waterfalls, rainforests, beaches and marine nature reserve. For anyone interested in becoming a Showgirl, where is the best place to find out more information? The best person to contact for any enquiries or more information about the event is Mel Crossland. Email: melgrossland@gmail.com Mobile: 0423 424 868. Thanks Zara.

T CAROL HARRISON

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he Professional Centre is “home” run your business how you need. for dozens of both local and Contact us now for a viewing. national businesses. We provide Meeting and Training Rooms serviced office space and reception When working “on” your business, it’s great to duties, so you can get on doing get out of the office and work from a different what you do best - running your business. space. We provide permanent and short term We have rooms available which are perfect rentals, meeting and training room hire and for running a team meeting or staff training virtual services. We understand for many equipped with whiteboards, HDMI projectors, businesses having an full air-conditioning extra set of hands to assist and natural light, The with enquiries, calendar Professional Centre management and call makes conducting VIRTUAL OFFICES ARE screening can be a critical your business easy and success factor. comfortable. HANDY FOR PEOPLE At The Professional If you’re looking for a WORKING FROM HOME Centre, we firmly believe professional space close OR A COMPANY THAT that your success is our to the CBD, contact us HAS BRANCHES IN THE success. now. CITY, BUT WOULD LIKE A Permanent Office Rental Make Yourself a Part REGIONAL BASE. We have a number of the Local Business of offices available for Community permanent rental. Besides With so many working with local businesses under one entrepreneurs looking to grow their business, we roof, one of the most fulfilling aspects of The also have many national businesses who base Professional Centre is being part of a local their regional office from here. business hub. With the likes of Chandler MacLeod, Sarina Our tenants provide services for each other, Russo, Greenlight Human Capital and 360 share knowledge and often become an extended Insurance House, you’re in top company. arm of each others’ business. One of the great advantages of renting at The If you’d like to view our rooms, receive a quote Professional Centre is the flexibility. With monthly or book your next place to do business, you can contracts, there’s no need to lock yourself into a drop into Level 1/9 Park Ave Coffs Harbour or huge commitment. It gives you the flexibility to call us on (02) 6659 2000.

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5 ways to enhance your child’s immunity. A child’s immunity can be challenged even before the cold weather sets in, resulting in runny noses, high temperatures, ear aches, coughs and colds. This can be a challenging time for parents of younger children, as there can be many sleepless nights, constant worry, and days off school, as well as time away from work.

nhancing your child’s immunity through diet, supplementation and herbs will help keep the immune system strong and allow you to feel confident in their health when the colder months arrive. Immunity begins with great gut health, so providing your children with a diet rich in vegetables, good fats and protein is essential. Feeding them nutritious broths, a rainbow of vegetables and fruits and plenty of high quality protein, as well as avoiding sugar (especially refined) is important. Replacing sweet drinks with filtered water is a good start, and boosting water intake will avoid dehydration. As parents/carers, we also want what is best for our children’s health, and avoiding the winter flu

12 Coffs Coast focus

is on the top of our list.

flora out of balance, and a strong immune system is dependent on the good bacteria in our digestive tract. To support this, try feeding your child a diet rich in fermented foods; however, there are also specific probiotics available just for children.

ders are gentle on the stomach and great in a

the gut wall and therefore boosting absorption

Vitamin C and Zinc - highly effective when it comes to preventing and treating any viral and bacterial infections and boosting their immune system before it is compromised. There are great powders and chewable tablets that are formulated specifically for children.

Cod Liver Oil - is high in naturally occurring vitamin D and Vitamin A, as well as essential fatty acids. These are vital nutrients for supporting mucous membranes of the lungs, as well as digestive and skin health. When purchasing a cod liver oil, ensure that it is free from heavy metals, additives and is sustainably sourced. It is available in natural flavoured liquids, which makes compliance a little easier.

Probiotics - many things can throw a healthy gut

Protein Powder - fermented brown rice pow-

assisting bacterial and viral infections.

Sometimes it can be difficult to get all of the nutrition that a child needs through diet, especially with fussy eaters, and this is where supplements may be beneficial. The top five supplements we love to use to promote a healthy immune system in our little ones include:

morning smoothie or added to porridge for that protein hit. We also love to use gelatin in our pancakes and natural jellies, or collagen powder, as they are both highly beneficial for repairing of nutrients. Herbs - there are an abundance of herbs that have amazing healing properties. Incorporating some in cooking is a great start, including garlic, ginger, turmeric, and thyme. There are also therapeutic formulations available in powders, tablets and liquids which combine minerals, vitamins and herbs that can play a role in preventing and

Coffs Coast focus 13

focus real estate

AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update. A L I F E ST Y L E V I L L AGE , YO U R GR E AT E ST M OV E . A C H A N C E T O H I T R E S E T.

Isn’t life funny? When we are young, starting out, we buy an apartment or a small house. Then we upgrade to a big family home that will accommodate the kids and then once the kids grow up and leave, the big house suddenly becomes too big and we are rattling around in it, doing the upkeep for when the kids come and visit a few times a year.

14 Coffs Coast focus

t a time you want freedom, you’re stuck with hours of housework, mowing lawns and maintenance. It's time to think about what kind of life you want to live. Opting to downsize your property but upsize your life Lifestyle villages can give you the flexibility to do other things with your life. Many people find that the greatest reward from downsizing is the realisation that there isn’t as much work to do, and they wish they did it years before. Choosing to live in a lifestyle village You might be surprised at who moves into lifestyle villages. They are active people with forward thinking mindsets - people who would prefer to fly the coop and travel, rather than be weighed down by a larger property. People who make their nest and come and go as they please, looking for security, friendship, peace of mind and a simple lifestyle to enjoy their retirement years. Downsizing doesn’t mean compromising on quality. Lifestyle villages have changed, and developers have recognised downsizers still want luxurious, desirable and light filled spaces - spacious foyers, beautiful outlooks and aspects and flooded with natural light and gentle breezes, with quality finishes and a premium look and feel, easy-care gardens and sunny courtyards and views over established gardens, natural bushland or lakes. Staying local

Developers are seeing a growing need to accommodate the growing demand for more lifestyle villages. There are now more options to buy locally, reducing the stress of moving away from the area that you love. Staying close to your friends, family, doctors and hairdresser can make the move that much easier. Purchasing your new home Lifestyle village legal purchasing contracts are different to the contract for sale that you will use to sell your own home. You are purchasing a 99-year lease, and each village will have different terms and conditions. It is important you ensure your solicitor looks over your contract, to ensure you understand the legal agreement and that you are comparing each village on an equal platform. Selling the family home You will usually be given 60 days to sell your family home before needing to complete your purchase. You will need a real estate agent who will sit down with you and help you make a plan to sell the house quickly, but without compromising the price. If you choose an agent who has experience with lifestyle villages, they will understand what you are going through and be able to make the process easier. If you are thinking about downsizing, we specialise in assisting people through this process. Not hard selling - just clear information and guidance. There is a lot to know, and we want to help you.

Coffs Coast focus 15

focusinterview.

Darren Smith i Darren. Tell us a little about your relationship with the Coffs Coast? I was born and raised on the Coffs Coast. After my electrical apprenticeship, I set up an electrical contracting business in Coffs. In my late 20s, I moved away, travelling and working on some of Australia’s largest infrastructure and mining projects. The more time I spent away, the stronger my desire grew to return to the area, back to my family and sense of a local community - Coffs has a very friendly, laid back feel that’s very appealing. How did New Life Farm come about, and how long has it been running? Diet related health issues in my early 20s led me down a path of learning more about good health and disease prevention through diet. At the time I was living on the Gold Coast, and farmers' markets and farm visits quickly became a firm fixture in my weekly routine to get my fresh food fix! Visiting Coffs and having trouble accessing good, clean food, I realised there was a huge opportunity for a small scale, diverse produce farm. That’s when the idea of New Life Farm was born. I’m fortunate to have access to a 22-acre 16 Coffs Coast focus

property between Sapphire and Moonee that’s of the overall community. been in the family for five generations. The farm’s design follows permaculture The land had been used for timber and principles, which I studied under Geoff small-scale production since the 1900s, but Lawton’s PDC (Permaculture Design Certificate) for the last 35 years sat idle other than a few and the property is managed using holistic cattle and a small veggie patch. management principles that I learnt from Allan Planning of the farm started two years Savory’s Holistic Management course. before I returned home to build the farm full We make all our own biological fertilisers time in 2015. and compost teas, and We started selling we create compost using produce in June 2015, on-farm organic materials growing slowly as and manure and off-farm the market garden organic waste. WE KNOW THAT A developed and I learnt I have a sensitivity to DIET FILLED WITH AS how to be a farmer! chemicals, so conventional MUCH FRESH, CLEAN, (Laughs.) farming methods have CHEMICAL FREE FOOD Tell us about the way never been used and we AS POSSIBLE CAN you farm? never have (and never will) ONLY CONTRIBUTE We are super use sprays or pesticides, TO IMPROVED passionate about as we seek balance in our HEALTH AND DISEASE regenerative farming ecosystem. PREVENTION. and giving back more How many people than we take from the does it take to run the land. farm? Is it just you and Our focus is on your family, or do you building the fertility and biodiversity of the employ other helping hands? soil and increasing the property’s resilience (to Currently I’m the only full-timer on the farm, drought, flood and climate change). This is at but I don’t do it all alone. the core of our regenerative farming practices My beautiful partner, Al, is the creative to regenerate the land to strengthen the health mastermind behind our social media and web

presence, that she does outside of working in her family business at Axis IQ. Every chance she has though, she loves to get her hands dirty helping in all aspects of the farm: animal management, in the market garden harvesting, not to mention sweating up a storm on the broad fork! Then there’s Dad, aka the farm’s engineer. Dad is my go-to when I have a crazy idea or invention and need it built! He’s creative and handy! Mum is our chief chicken raiser and is a bit of a chicken whisperer too! It’s Mum’s annual duty in early spring to hand raise our new laying chickens. In true Mum form, she also makes sure we never go hungry! At certain times of the year we have volunteers on the farm too. Everyone involved has an undying belief in what we’re striving to create on the farm. What sort of fruit and veg do you grow? We grow with the seasons. We don’t grow a lot of any one crop, but we do grow a wide variety focusing on quality over quantity. We also like experimenting, growing new and unusual crops. It’s rewarding to find different crops that grow well here and introducing these weird and wonderful tastes to our customers. As well as the market garden, we have an

focusinterview.

Darren Smith

ever-expanding orchard, where we grow a range of seasonal fruit. We had our first season of mangoes recently, which was awesome! We also sell our chicken’s eggs. Organically grown produce has had quite a lot of attention in recent years and is the go-to for many consumers these days. How important is it to produce 100% organically grown fruit and veg? Whilst we are not a certified organic farm, managing our farm beyond organic i.e.100% chemical free, is of the utmost importance to us. We considered certification, but our customer base is purely local, and we have a direct relationship with them. They know we have an "open farm" policy, where they can check out our growing methods and farm management practices, so we don’t feel a need for certification at present. Regarding the importance of eating organic food, with all the literature available it’s evident that we are, in fact, what we eat. Our exposure to chemicals is being attributed to a range of diseases and allergies that were not as prevalent in the past, and a lot of people’s chemical exposure comes in the food they eat. We know that a diet filled with as much fresh, clean, chemical free food as possible can only contribute to improved health and disease prevention. What else do you consider to be important factors to consider when buying produce? Freshness. We supply our food as quickly as possible after harvest with minimal cold storage time, to ensure the highest nutritional

content possible. Locality. We’re big advocates for minimising food miles MUM IS OUR and supporting local CHIEF CHICKEN inoculant (that we make producers. RAISER AND IS A on the farm), covering it Taste and colour. BIT OF A CHICKEN with a tarp and leaving Produce should be fullWHISPERER TOO! IT’S to "cook" for up to 12 flavoured and vibrant MUM’S ANNUAL DUTY weeks. This does require a in colour. The richer the IN EARLY SPRING little forward planning. colour, generally the TO HAND RAISE We’ve recently started better it is for you - and OUR NEW LAYING collecting off-farm organic the better it tastes too! CHICKENS. "waste" from our café Seasonality. We customers. Depending on enjoy eating with the contents, we process the seasons. It’s also this invaluable resource far easier to grow through our chicken system or mix directly into produce in the appropriate season - the health our compost piles before composting. Our café and vitality of seasonally grown produce is customers have all been excited to be part of maximised, thus minimising pest and disease this process. pressure too. You also offer training and consultancy on Eating with the seasons also allows you to the farm; what does this involve? get excited about the produce when it next We consult on small and hobby farm comes around, rather than just having access projects focusing on permaculture design and to it all year. holistic management. We’ll also be launching You make your own compost on the farm; a series of workshops in coming months can you tell us about this process? covering a range of topics taught by us, as We utilise our chicken manure, on-farm well as bringing in other specialists within the organic material and off-farm organic waste to industry. make our compost. Being a passionate foodie yourself, We use a Static Pile Inoculated Covered what are some of your favourite fresh compost process, or "SPIC". ingredients you like to use in your We’re always seeking efficiencies in our cooking? systems, and SPIC is a much lower energy input solution that involves inoculating a pile It depends on the season. For example, of organic matter with a specifically blended coming into autumn we look forward to the

different radishes, turnips and brassicas - we’re hooked on pickling and fermenting and make large batches of kimchi and sauerkraut to last us through the year (excellent for gut health!) We are massive advocates of the benefits of green smoothies and enjoy one - at least one! - daily. During the cooler months, our selection of greens is amazing. We love our staples of ginger, turmeric, galangal, chilli and garlic for making pastes and rubs. Al and I love to experiment in the kitchen, so every season brings different taste sensations and recipes to add to our repertoire! Where can people find your produce or contact you for more information? Our website www.newlifefarm.com.au and our Facebook and Instagram pages. We currently run a veggie box system where customers can register for our online store and place orders for collection from the farm Tuesday to Thursday. We are a working farm, so we’re currently closed to the public; however, we’ll be running open days and farm tours soon - register for our newsletter at our website to stay up to date. Thanks Darren. Coffs Coast focus 17

focus_What’s On Coffs Coast

A P R I L

SYDNEY HOTSHOTS

The Hotshots hunks are on their way to Plantation Hotel! With brand-new guys and an all-new show for 2018, the Sydney Hotshots are back - and better than ever! When 6th April. Where Plantation Hotel. Tickets www.eventbrite.com.au

BEACHSIDE RADIOLOGY COFFS OCEAN SWIMS Choose from a 600 m swim around the iconic Jetty, 2 km swim across the harbour, or Junior Swims for 8 - 14 years at Coffs Harbour’s beautiful Jetty Beach on Sunday 8th April. All funds raised go to local charities and community groups. When 8th April. Where Jetty, Coffs Harbour. More information visit www.villagesports.com.au

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THUNDAMENTALS

JUNIOR MARINE RANGER PROGRAM

Bookings are now being taken for Tuesday 17th April. Experience life as a Junior Marine Ranger - just like the rookie stars of the ABC3 hit TV series Blue Zoo! More info www.dolphinmarinemagic.com.au/ 1300 547 737.

One of Australia’s most beloved Hip Hop acts, Sydney via Blue Mountains trio Thundamentals will celebrate their tenth anniversary in 2018 by announcing an epic national tour, and Coffs Harbour is on the list. When 15th April. Where Coffs Hotel. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

13 18

SONGS OF STAGE AND SCREEN, FEATURING THE 7 SOPRANOS

Channel your inner Doris Day, Marilyn Monroe or Judy Garland and let The 7 Sopranos take you on a glamorous journey through the hits of the 1950s, including I Got Rhythm, Big Spender and Diamonds are a Girl’s Best Friend. When 13th April. Where Jetty Theatre. Tickets www.jettytheatre.com.au

BIG BANANA NATIONAL BANANA DAY

Banana throwing competition. Choc-coated banana sundaes $9.50 each; select one of our famous choc-coated bananas and an ice cream of your choice and create your very own National Banana Day Sundae. Balloon giveaways throughout the day. Winner of our lolly guessing competition announced on Facebook. Plus, lots more! When Wed 18th April.

Crafty

Silks

Pink

COFFS COAST EMERGENCY SERVICES

In what may well be a first in New South Wales, the Pinks Silks Trust, along with local businesses and organisations, have bought and generously donated to Coffs Coast Emergency Services a Honda All-Terrain Vehicle.

8 Wired Cucumber Hippy Fresh and cold on the taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this absolute beauty from award winning New Zealand craft brewery, 8 Wired ... their Cucumber Hippy. A lightly hopped berliner weisse with the addition of cooling fresh cucumber, this is one of the best summer seasonal beers going around. It’s tart, tangy, full of fresh fruity flavours and super thirst quenching!

The ATV, which includes a rescue pod, will potentially lessen the time taken to access people needing emergency help in remote and hard to access locations and so possibly extend the “golden hour”. The unit is fully self-contained and transported close to a rescue scene by trailer. Coffs Coast Emergency Services are very grateful to Pink Silks, who raised a large amount of the money at a Ladies and Tradies Night courtesy of the Hoey Moey and CUB. The night included a charity auction, at which AJ Civil Projects paid enough to buy the Rescue Pod and Park Beach Plaza’s generosity paid for the trailer. As part of the package, State Emergency Service and Ambulance New South Wales personnel will

complete an intensive driver training course. The course will give SES rescue operators and ANSW paramedics the driving skills to enable them to access hard to reach locations. The ATV will be stored at NSW SES Coffs Harbour City Unit and be available 24/7 to respond to emergencies. Mick Mair, Ambulance NSW Duty Operations Manager Mid North Coast and Bill Roffey, SES Local Controller Coffs Coast have both expressed their sincere thanks to Pink Silks and the Coffs Coast business community for their generosity in providing this important rescue capability for the community. Welcome aboard, “Pinky”.

Coffs Coast focus 19

H AR D HITTING E V I T A E CR Make Healthy Happen I hear it everywhere - I don’t feel good, I’m so tired all the time and why on EARTH did I put my keys in the fridge! (Have done that a few times myself!) Is that an accurate description of you at the moment? Lethargic? Lacking motivation? Pain after you eat? Brain fog? Like you’re dragging your feet through wet concrete? If you think that your lifestyle could be to blame, you need to come in and see me. Together we can review your diet, physical activity and health goals and work together to implement small, consistent changes that will have a big impact. If you want to feel: Full of energy; Motivated; Laser sharp concentration; Like a superhero who can conquer the world; Then give me a call for a confidential chat now!

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WINNER 2016

focus_tech

WITH

GAVIN MORONEY

Tech Head

APPLE

WATCH SERIES 3 42MM

As a self-confessed Apple fanboy, I have hesitated about getting an Apple Watch and found myself asking what was the point of having a device like a Smartwatch when I have a Smartphone? Now, after spending the past few months with the Apple Watch Series 3, I’m left wondering how I lived without it.

n first view, nothing much has changed in the design since the first Apple watch. It comes in both 38 mm and 42 mm designs, both with 16 GB of storage and comes with all you can expect from today’s tech, including GPS, wifi, bluetooth and a handy heart rate monitor. There is the more expensive option of having cellular - which to be honest, with the $599 price tag and the monthly cellular plan, leaves me wondering if it’s worth the extra money to be able to make a call from your watch? Especially when you can make and receive calls from the standard Apple watch, as long as your phone is not far away. Coming in around 32 grams, it’s extremely

lightweight, unlike some traditional watches, and most of the time I don’t feel like I’m wearing a watch at all. The battery life, depending on use, is anywhere from one two days on a full charge, instead of the 16 hours stated by Apple. For those who take their fitness seriously, the inclusion of GPS is great for recording your speed and distances when running, cycling or swimming. With Apple’s built in fitness app, it almost becomes a daily game trying to beat your calorie, steps and standing goals. Once connected to bluetooth headphones, you can listen to music while exercising and leave the phone at home. The upgraded heart rate monitoring works extremely well. It’s no longer just counting

your beats per minute, but recording your daily resting heart rate, your workout ranges, pulse while walking, all to give you a chart of whether it’s improving or not. Some of the negatives to the watch would have to be the speed of apps; sometimes apps just don’t want to work or they run extremely slow, and there are only limited options for watch faces from Apple, but with some third party apps you can create your own. By far my favourite thing I have found about using the Apple Watch is that I’m spending a lot less time on my phone. Notifications for nearly every app on your phone are now displayed on the watch, and you have the option to choose whether to

reach for the phone or not. Gone are the days of checking a text message and ending up down the rabbit hole of social media. So with a flick of the wrist, those antisocial dinner dates with friends behind your phone screen, or trying to discreetly check whether that call coming through is an important one whilst mid conversation or meeting, are a thing of the past. This isn’t a stand alone device, but rather an accessory to your phone. It is great for anyone who enjoys fitness, tech, or loves everything Apple, and I have to remind myself it is first and foremost a watch, and it tells the time perfectly. Price: 42mm $499; 38 mm $459. Tech Heads: seven out of 10 Tech Heads.

Coffs Coast focus 21

GiftGUIDE WITH CARGO LANE

Cow Hides $495

Shell Crosses from $18.95

Natural Stone Hand Basin $349

Timber and Glass Fish Bowl $89.95

Aromatherapy Company Candles $35

Oxley Aged Leather Armchair $1,895

Industrial Sideboard $1,395 Day Beds from $1,695

AUTHENTIC HOME - BELLINGEN

22 Coffs Coast focus

W W W . C A R G O L A N E . C O M . A U

T The Mid North Coast

Creative Ageing 2-15 APRIL 2018

The Mid North Coast Creative Ageing Festival is an innovative annual event which acknowledges the valuable role that seniors play in our community and highlights the importance of engaging in the arts and creative activities to foster good health and wellbeing as people age.

THE MID NORTH COAST

he Festival offers opportunities Evidence demonstrates the powerful impact for older people to participate that the arts can have on the health and in or enjoy the arts through a wellbeing of older people - enhancing quality range of activities on the Coffs of life for people who are seeking to remain Coast. These range from vintage fit and well as they age and for people who films and a special art class in Bellingen, to live with a chronic condition such as dementia opportunities of meeting a popular cartoonist or depression. Health benefits through arts at the Bunker Gallery, or attending a range of activities, such as dancing and singing, concerts from classical to Broadway in Coffs include improved mobility and motor control, Harbour. And to top it off, improved heart and there’s the special Better respiratory function, Together Seniors Festival greater self-esteem and Harbourside Markets with confidence, less reliance a host of entertainment Arts Mid North Coast on medication and and opportunities to find has a special Creative personal care, higher out what seniors and Ageing website, which social engagement and seniors groups are doing provides information all beneficial effects on and offering. year round for those who mental health. Such wish to age creatively, A special feature of the activities are increasingly whatever their interest. festival in 2018 is Let’s important for the Mid Dance, which encourages North Coast, where the young at heart to the population is enjoy the delights of characterised by a high dancing, from Line Dancing in Woolgoolga and proportion of people aged over the age of Rock ‘n’ Roll in Nambucca to Old Time and New 60. Based on 2011 figures, this demographic Vogue in Coffs Harbour. represents 32% of the population. Within The full festival program can be found online the region there are areas of even higher at www.midnorthcoastcreativeageingfestival. proportion. In terms of this demographic, the com.au Mid North Coast is what Australia will be in 10 years. Our Creative Ageing Feature seeks to Arts Mid North Coast has a special Creative provide information to assist those who wish Ageing website which provides information all to age creatively, whatever their interest. http:// year round for those who wish to age creatively, artsmidnorthcoast.com/creative-ageing/ whatever their interest.

A Festival of Ideas Inspiration & Imagination

APRIL 2-15 2018 Dozens of activities across the region: Music, Art, Dance, Film, Talks, Free Offers Workshops & Creative Learning

www.midnorthcoastcreativeageingfestival.com.au

caf-focus-2018.indd 1

14/03/2018 12:38 pm

Coffs Coast focus 23

focusinterview.

Artist F

W H I T E W A Y

OCUS spoke to Paula about her experience working on some big feature films and how that compared to some of the Australian films and television series she has worked on, what other creative projects she has on the go, and her role amongst the art community here on the Coffs Coast. Hi Paula. Can you tell us about your relationship to the Coffs Coast? I moved to Bellingen in 2007, just after the birth of my third child. I had been visiting the region for a while and had fallen in love with the area. I also was looking for a place similar to where I grew up, to raise my family, and Bello ticked all the boxes. The Coffs Coast offers such a wonderful landscape and environment to encourage a love and appreciation of the land and a wonderfully creative environment to raise children in. Poetically too, being situated halfway between Sydney and the Gold Coast, my two work hubs, it kind of amused me. Bellingen also had a massive film connection for me too; some of my favourite production designers, art directors, construction managers, chippies, steelies and scenics came from this area. How would you describe your work, and what kind of mediums do you like to use? Predominantly I am a set designer working within the Australian film and television industry. I am a qualified architect, illustrator, and I love just making stuff.

24 Coffs Coast focus

Paula Whiteway is someone who has a long list of creative achievements. Predominantly she is a SET DESIGNER IN THE FILM AND TELEVISION INDUSTRY, BUT SHE IS ALSO A TRAINED ARCHITECT, AN ILLUSTRATOR, SCULPTOR, GRAPHIC DESIGNER, PAINTER - the list goes on!

Within the film industry I am one of the last to understand all aspects of the art department of the hand drafters (I am a tad of a luddite side of film, but can enhance the final quality and do not like drafting in CAD). As such, of a set produced. I work in graphite or ink to create the set On the bigger films, as a set designer you drawings. will be grouped into a team focusing on just In my time between jobs I do a variety of one set area - it might be a town or spaceship creative tasks; however, at the moment I am in Thor, or ships on Pirates of the Caribbean, working on an illustrative series in graphite and and then you are employed just to draft. I watercolour and a street art series in house guess I have always been a tad lucky in this paint varnish and ply. respect. I seem to be able to affiliate with the What is it like working on big feature films production designers (I try to “get into their like Star Wars III, Thor heads” with respect to Ragnarok, Kong (to the aesthetic, period, name a few) as a set detailing etc. of the sets), designer? and in doing so seem to To be perfectly frank, be given sets of my own some of my favourite to work on and more TO BE PERFECTLY film experiences are on leeway in contributing FRANK, SOME OF Australian films and to and furthering the MY FAVOURITE FILM television series, such as designs. EXPERIENCES ARE The Proposition, Mental The big films are ON AUSTRALIAN and Answered by Fire, interesting too for the FILMS AND and smaller budget films, sheer size of the art TELEVISION SERIES. such as Queen of the department - we had Damned and House of probably close to 40 Wax. drafties at one stage On the lower budget during Pirates - which films you have more opportunity to diversify can mean unless you stand out, you can get within the art department, which has given lost within the department. I also find the level me the opportunity to enhance my set design. of security working for companies such as Quite often I have been given the opportunity Lucas Films, Disney and Marvel is incredible. to work on the lot with the scenics and Tell us a bit about the process that you chippies, or with the set decorators and props go through to create sets for big feature makers. This gives me the opportunity not only films?

The first thing I do when I jump on a film is read the script. It is important to know the story being told, characters involved, the sets and locations envisaged by the scriptwriter. I then am briefed by the production designer on the specific set builds, the aesthetic style envisaged for the film, the action and potential camera shots (shown through storyboards or pre viz) for that set, sizing and budget. I then research the architectural style and period, come up with initial design concepts, get them ticked and start drawing. Drawing in pencil is important to me, as I have to think about what each line means or conveys to the chippies. It allows me to make changes to my designs, plus I layer my drawings up graphically so not only are they read as construction drawings, they also depict how the set should look as a final built piece. (I have drawn areas of wood rot, crustaceans and coral on the set pieces for The Flying Dutchman). When I start drafting my set, I “plug myself in” - normally I have headphones on blaring loud music to cut out the office and I spend the next twelve or so hours standing (or having a little boogie) at my drawing board drawing. I think those times are some of my happiest in my “working life”. It’s wonderful to get to do the things you love. It does also lead me to having the pants scared off me - Dan Henah, the production designer on Thor Ragnarok, quite often would sneak up behind me whilst I was drawing and give me a little “boo” to

focusinterview.

ON THE SET OF DAYBREAKERS

get my attention. I believe he is responsible for some of my greys! Thanks, Dan! When you’re not working in the film industry, you create art through many forms. What are some of the artworks you are working on at the moment? At the moment it feels like I am spinning a lot of “creative plates”. Currently I am focusing on my illustrative work and furthering an “anthromorph” series (hybrid human and animal characters) in development for an illustrated novel. In addition, I am working on a few “street art” projects, which reflect the more “cartoonesque” aspect of my drawing work and have been recently included in a street art project, in Bellingen. I also pull in architectural drafting work and labouring (again both creating the drawings and then building the structures); I have a sculptural series that I have been creating and some graphic design work in the pipeline too. Is there anyone whom you would say has influenced or inspired your work?

THE SET OF CONDEMNED

That’s a big one… Lots of people have influenced different aspects within my creative career. My father has always shown me through creative thinking you can do almost anything you put your mind to, which I think is an important lesson to learn. A wonderful production designer, Ian “Grace” Walker, gave me my first opportunity to work on feature films, and encouraged me Do you feel very connected to the art to get on the floor, post completion of the community here on the Coffs Coast, and drafting contract, to work with the chippies, how has the Coffs Coast played a role in scenics, sculptors and props makers, and your artwork? explore other areas of the film industry. I I have been very fortunate with making always found that through having this hands and maintaining connections with the art, on experience it helped develop my set design design and film community in the region, even work, and I am forever thankful to Grace for though I do work away from the area a lot. I giving me that opportunity. have amazing support. Last year, unfortunately Author Neil Gaiman I had to turn down a - filmmaker Tim Burton, major feature film in architectural illustrator Queensland; however, Leebus Woods, fashion within that week I was photographer Tim asked to be a part of a DRAWING Walker all inspire me. pop up gallery in Urunga.

IN PENCIL IS IMPORTANT TO ME, AS I HAVE TO THINK ABOUT WHAT EACH LINE MEANS OR CONVEYS ...

At that stage I had never exhibited my illustrative work, so it provided me with a wonderful opportunity to jump in the deep end. The pop up gallery then became Urunga ArtSpace, in which I was actively involved until November. That gallery provided me a wonderful opportunity to connect with some amazing artists from the region and is an absolute asset to the town. In addition, I have had the opportunity to connect with the film scene here, being involved directly with three projects in the region and consulting on a fourth. It is a very industrious area, with many wonderful

ON THE SET OF PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN

opportunities for exploration and expansion of creative activities. Where can people see your work? I have been very fortunate to be given the opportunity to have a solo exhibition (my first!), Silent Ramblings with Big Fig Arts at The Bellingen Brewery & Co. This exhibition will be of my original graphite illustrations from The memoirs of Scarlet Sagan. It opens 5pm, April 5. In addition, the next exhibition at the ArtSpace (formerly the pop up gallery in Urunga), Full Circle, opening Saturday 24 March at 5pm, includes some of us founding members. Through the ArtSpace I will be selling limited edition prints of some of my illustrations that have previously been unshown, as well as some of the “sooty” sculptures I make. Bellingen Framers, who have fabulously supported my work (and constantly astound me by always meeting my unrealistic deadlines) also shows some of my limited edition prints from Sketches from the Moleskin, the original anthropomorphic series. Otherwise, I am on the photo app sites - Instagram as Scarlet_Sagan and Vero as w.Paula Whiteway. And hopefully my website, which includes both my film and illustration portfolios, and etsy store should be launched in early April 2018. Thanks Paula.

Coffs Coast focus 25

New tapas and finger food menu now available from Dark Arts Brew & Bar.

up and summer approaching quickly, we will be kicking off our new menu shortly. Our chef, Blake Wittenberg, is very excited with all the great produce he gets to use over the summer period. Be sure to make your way down and have a look at the new and upcoming changes to the Pier Hotel.

Head Chef Blake Wiittenberg.

We are open seven days a week for lunch and dinner; to make a reservation, please call the Pier Hotel on 6652 2110. We look forward to seeing you.

Curcumin, that has demonstrated relief for people with all sorts of disease states including Irritable Bowel Disease, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and cancer. Also, Curcumin is protective for the heart, the liver, the skin and the brain by quenching free radicals and reducing inflammation. Ginger is also known for its powers in settling the stomach and for its anti inflammatory qualities, and focusinterview. Chai spices in milk are just like a warm cuddle from a smiling bear.

Owne Matt a

So if you want to feel on top of the world, give one of our turmeric lattes a go at O.P 81 café.

Barbecue Pork Ribs served with and Dr friesand Camperdown St, Coffs Harbour Cnrcoleslaw Harbour hotel: 6652 2110 bistro: 6651 8222

81 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 6652 9011

lunch 11:30am - 2:30pm; dinner 5:30pm - 8:30pm; 7 days a week.

7am - 2pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

the hoey moey Welcome to the Beachside Bistro at the Hoey Moey with our newly renovated kitchen. We are the only hotel in Coffs Harbour with direct beach access. Come and enjoy our beachside hotel with spacious beer garden,

The Hoey Moey Sink your teeth into a half slab of BBQ Pork Ribs, coleslaw and fries cooked to perfection! That’s right! Enjoy BBQ Pork Ribs for lunch and dinner every day of the week! Wash these ribs down with an ice cold Tooheys beer in our fantastic beer garden, open plan bar, bistro, and enjoy our Kids’ Room, Drive Thru Bottleshop and TAB and Keno facilities. Grab a napkin and sign up for a Members Card today for fantastic bistro, bar and bottleshop specials. Visit our website for all the details.

Kanella Ormsby

open plan bar, bistro, drive thru bottle shop and TAB facilities. Have you tried our new Gourmet Pizza range? There is a large selection to choose from and you can have these eat in or takeaway. Come in and check out our C O AS T takeaway specials or phone ahead for pick-up. If a pizza is not what you are after our FAMOUS $7.50 FEEDS are always available daily.

mr. good beans We pride ourselves on bringing a personalised service and product: a finely tuned espresso coffee just how the customer likes it, gourmet café food made from scratch in house, and a friendly, comfortable experience to all who walk through the café door.

HEAD CHEF GUS PREZIOSO.

Great Food, Live Music, Good Times.

84 OCEAN PARADE, COFFS HARBOUR 6652 3833 WWW.HOEYMOEY.COM.AU 7 DAYS. MON - THURS & SUN: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5:30 - 8:30PM. FRI - SAT: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5.30 - 9PM.

H OTE L

Try the mouth-watering Mediterranean grilled chicken salad this spring, made fresh from locally sourced vegetables, mixed with feta, kalamata olives and semi dried tomatoes, topped with grilled chicken breast and sweet potato wafer thin chips and drizzled with Chef’s secret zesty citrus dressing. Mediterranean flavours expertly blended to match the Australian spring light, yet very satisfying.

FOCUS had a chat to Kanella Ormsby this month, to find about the new menu available at the Coast Hotel. Here is what she shared ... Head Chef

W David Ricketts.

Follow us on Instagram and find our Facebook page @MrGoodBeans What do you enjoy about living on the hat would you Coffs Coast? say is the biggest 84 Ocean Parade, Coffs Harbour 500 g Wagyu Rump Surf ‘n’ Turf 6652 3833 www.hoeymoey.com.au influence on yourMarketplace, Coffs is so muchBeach like where I grew up in Shop 1 Moonee Moonee 6656 4511 www.mrgoodbeans.com.au cooking? New Zealand. I came to Coffs Harbour for a 7 days. Mon - Thurs & Sun:12pm - 2:30pm; 5:30 - 8:30pm. Fri - Sat: Definitely my Monday – Saturday 6am week’s – 4pm holiday with family, decided to stay 12pm - 2:30pm; 5.30 - 9pm. culture. I am of Maori heritage, and Sundays and 8am food–is3pm and have been here for almost two years the best and main event of all gatherings. We now. Beautiful beaches, great weather, cook with love and from the soul, hence soul friendly and lovely people, fresh seafood. food, and it is the best Such a fantastic place to way to celebrate unity live. I love it. and family. This is where What is happening my passion and love for this month? cooking stemmed from If you are feeling With the colder season and has influenced my peckish, we have a approaching us, I wanted cooking through my variety of new selections to add more wholesome career. to choose from in our meals that are classics and good go-to meals - better Tell us about your new menu out this quality, in-house made new menu. month. Keeping up with and local produce to better With the colder the demand, we have represent not only the If you’re looking for the best value in Coffs Harbour, look no further than season approaching us, kept most of our classic menu food, but our local the Plantation Hotel … The team at the Plantation pride themselves on I wanted to add more go-to meals on the suppliers as well. offering outstanding service alongside quality food at an affordable price, wholesome meals that menu. that will keep you coming back time and time again. are classics and good Our lunch specials go-to meals better keep us busy in the day Pop in and try something off our brand new à la carte menu, with a tasty quality, in-house made time and at $10 with a selection of burgers, pastas, salads and premium grade steaks, plus all HEAD CHEF and local produce to better represent not middy of soft drink, it is such a great deal. your pub favourites, cooked using fresh local produce and plated with the DAVID NEWICK. only the menu food, but our local suppliers Book in with us for your next function; we personal touches of head chef Dave Newick. as well. I am all about the meat, but I have no have a variety of platters to choose from, or The Plantation Hotel … Delicious Food, Friendly Service, Incredible Value! beef with vegetarians, so have also included a we would be more than happy to do custom few veggie options. platters. We have the open deck, beer garden Do you have a favourite ingredient to or liquid bar areas available for bookings. 88 GRAFTON STREET, COFFS HARBOUR. work with? A warm welcome, happy smiles and great 6652 3855 WWW.PLANTATIONHOTEL.COM.AU I am an avid fan of cheese and bacon; this selection of food, wine and beer all available combo can turn any meal into something at The Coast Hotel. 7 DAYS. MON - THURS & SUN: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5:30 - 8:30PM. FRI - SAT: 12PM - 2:30PM; 5.30 - 9PM. epic. I think they should be on everything. Thanks Kanella.

Plantation Hotel

Coffs Coast focus 27

Head Kristy

coffs co

RealofHumans the coffs coast focus around town.

Julia Dryburgh and Tanja Semb Wever What do you enjoy about living on the Coff Coast? The weather, proximity to the beach and the mountains. We love the fact that you can park anywhere you want and there is not much traffic, and we enjoy the beautiful, relaxed people.

Joel Gregory Barselaar When you’re not working at Old John’s, what do you like to get up to? Definitely surfing with my mates. My choice of waves would be at Sandy Beach, because it’s where I grew up.

Rani Lowry When you’re not working, what do you get up to? I live close to the Jetty and really enjoy going to the beach and hanging out with my friends, although most of my friends are the girls I work with. But other than that, it’s always good to have a drink and relax. I am a bit of a cat person, and I like to hang out with my cat most of the time.

Kate Collins

Macauley Rae

Abby Rieger and Marcus Phillips

When you’re not making people feel pretty whilst

Other than Old John’s, where do you purchase

Where is your favourite place to have lunch?

working at Living Doll Premier Stylists, what are some

your coffee?

of your favourite things to do on the Coffs Coast?

I like to grab a coffee at Liberty in Urunga and maybe

Enjoy the outdoors with my family. I take my kids to the beach. We like to eat at various places in Sawtell, but one our favourites is Emerald Beach Pizza.

Urban Café. I prefer to order Pablo and Rusty, which is the

We like to go to Urban Café along the Jetty. We have been coming here for the past five years. Our favourite dishes to order are the Buddha Bowl and Eggs Benedict.

28 Coffs Coast focus

blend sold here at Old John’s.

focusinterview.

JODIE Thornber

hen did you first become interested in cookery as a career? I’ve been cooking at home since I was about 10 years old and have always enjoyed creating new things and discovering new tastes. At age 15, I decided I wanted to make a career of it. Can you tell us about your experience/ career as a chef? I did my full chef’s apprenticeship at a local café here in Coffs Harbour. I then went on to work at an Australian fine dining restaurant at Rutherglen, which was my first experience with wines and wineries. About 18 years ago I was asked to help out at the Crowe’s property here in Nana Glen, cooking for family and friends over Christmas. I was invited back again the following year, and then in 2002 I was offered a role as Russell’s personal chef, where I spent the next 14 years. I’ve been incredibly lucky to travel the world with Russell working on film sets and have met some amazing people over that time. I’ve even had my food in movies! After having a break to recharge and spend time with my family, Madonna and Barry offered me the opportunity to come to Velvets, and I’m absolutely loving it here. Do you have a favourite experience you can share with us about your time working with movies? Whilst filming Cinderella Man in Toronto, I was using the kitchen in my apartment to

We are pleased to introduce you to the new Head Chef at Velvets Restaurant at Two Tails Wines, the talented Jodie Thornber. Jodie has an extensive background in cookery with many years of experience as Russell Crowe's very own Head Chef! Velvets is very lucky to have bagged such a well travelled and experienced chef. FOCUS had a chat to Jodie, to see what's on her new menu ... prepare food for a movie scene the following day. Unfortunately, I forgot to turn the stove off … which set the fire alarms off and resulted in Ron Howard standing out on the footpath in his pajamas at 3am! Tell us about the menu at Velvets. What type of dishes can we expect to see? The menu is inspired by traditional Spanish tapas. The dishes vary from main items such as the Black Standard Beef meatballs in a spicy romesco tomato sauce, to sweet and tasty dessert items, like the Crème Catalana, which is a Spanish style brulee with honey, figs and a praline toffee. The tapas style of eating is designed to be shared, so you get to experience a range of tastes and textures, but there’s absolutely nothing wrong with choosing a dish all for yourself if that’s what you want! I understand you use a lot of local produce on the menu? All of our menus are based around seasonal produce and are sourced from our local area. We obtain beef from the Orara Valley, and fresh local seafood from the waters off our beautiful coastline. Additionally, we source things like honey, oil, garlic, farmed mushrooms, blueberries, milk and dairy all from the Coffs Coast and hinterland. What is your favourite dish on the menu currently and why ? My favourite right now would be a new menu item, the hand of octopus served with a sautéed garlic spinach, crispy sweet potato and a zesty sour cream dressing (pictured). I enjoy the contrast between the succulent tender octopus and the crispy sweet potato, and I just

love the way it looks on the plate! When it comes to special events and functions, what can you offer your guests? We’re able to offer a complete range of function and special event experiences, from small intimate gatherings to birthdays, corporate events and even weddings, completely tailored to meet your needs and budget. Where do you source new ideas from? I enjoy reading about cookery and source lots of my ideas from books. Of course, these days the internet is a wonderful resource for researching and developing ideas, but most of my inspiration comes from actually coming into contact with new tastes and experiences. I take everything I learn and adapt it to my own tastes and likes, so that the dishes that you are served at Velvets Restaurant are very much my own. What would you say is the biggest influence on your cooking ? I’m not sure that I could pick out a particular thing that has influenced the way I have developed my cooking. Having been fortunate to travel extensively, I’ve enjoyed lots of different foods from different cultures and have definitely taken lots of learnings from those experiences. Wine matching is important for restaurateurs - tell us about your wine choices. I love the range of wines produced from the grapes grown right here at Two Tails. Our Chardonnay is particularly well matched with seafood or fish in a rich sauce, such as

our Spanish garlic prawn pot with chorizo, and for the meat lovers I’d recommend our Chambourcin to go with the grilled lamb cutlets with drunken figs, or the baby back pork spare ribs. How often do you change the menu? We will be changing the menu seasonally to reflect dishes more in keeping with the time of year. We’ll introduce new dishes to reflect the beauty of autumn, and the freshness of spring. Of course, we’ll keep the favourites that everyone knows and loves. Do you have a favourite ingredient to work with? I’ve always loved seafood, so anything involving that immediately has my attention. I’m particularly proud of the new mixed grilled seafood plate with prawns, salmon and squid with a chili and lime glaze. I’m a bit of a sweet tooth, and the new sweet tapas tower is hard to serve up without making an extra little bit for myself! Throughout your career - what famous chefs have you admired and why ? I’ve had the pleasure of meeting Marco Pierre White, and love his approach to “shared’”style meals, just like the tapas that we offer at Velvets. It’s this type of food that I really love to cook, so I’d have to say that he has been an influence. What do you enjoy about living on the Coffs Coast? What is there not to enjoy! Our amazing beaches, to our beautiful bushlands, all so close to home. Thanks Jodie. Coffs Coast focus 29

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10 YEAR TOUR

30 Coffs Coast focus

i Jeswon. Congratulations on 10 years of Thundamentals! Take us back 10 years ago; how did you guys come together? We all come from a small town in the Blue Mountains. Morgs and Tuka were friends since they were pretty young; I didn’t move up to the mountains until I was 17 years old. I met the guys through the love of Hip Hop and music. We met at house parties and found that we were all big fans of Hip Hop - that culture and that music. We had friends around us who were already doing shows and starting to make records ... We would make music with them on a casual level, but they inspired us to take it more seriously. We made the transition of being fans of music to wanting to have a go at making it ourselves; it all just came from a place of friendship and appreciated of music. It was a pretty organic thing ... When you’re such a big fan of something, I think you reach a point where you’re kind of like, I have to give this a go myself, and that's how I feel it evolved for us. I think that's the key to why we’ve been able to do this for so long, because before we started making music together, we were friends, and to this day - above everything else - we’re friends. And who were some of your major influencers? Urthboy, who has had a successful solo career and initially was part of "The Herd", and also one of the founding members of "Elefant Traks", which is a pretty influential Hip Hop label based in Sydney. Also, really good

friends of ours are the "Hermitude" guys; they’re old friends we grew up with. We recorded our first ever EP back in 2008 with one half of Hermitude in his family studio in the Blue Mountains, with him and his father. So, those are some of the guys that we looked up to. There was a crew back then called "Down Under Beats Crew"; they won one of the super early triple j Unearthed comps back in the day; they were a big inspiration too. They were the closest to what we were doing or wanted to do. Ten years means a whole lot of tours, fun, studio sessions ... You’ve kicked off a regional tour, which is almost completely sold out. Tell us about the guys you’re bringing along with you … One is a brother named Adrian Eagle; he’s a super talented, exciting vocalist from Melbourne, and he’s got a beautiful unique voice. He’s got a song out at the minute called 17 Again, which you should check out online; it's really good. And then we’ve got the other homie, B Wise, who’s a guy that we’ve been fans of since we first heard of his music a few years ago. He’s definitely on the come up, a guy to keep your eyes and ears peeled for; he’ll be doing big things in the very close future. Thanks Jeswon.

plug! Catch Thundamentals ... The Coffs Hotel, Sunday, 15th April from 6pm to 11pm. www.stickytickets.com.au www.thundamentals.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 31

Opera focusinterview.

triumphantly returns to

Coffs Harbour!

Hooray! Hooray! Let your hair down, “The Barber” is coming! Co-Opera brings their hilarious production of “The Barber of Seville” to Coffs Harbour, with its colourful costumes and glorious music in a setting of gold prospecting.

ho is Co-Opera? Co-Opera, established in South Australia in 1995, is Australia’s opera on the move company, dedicated to bringing culture and unforgettable experiences to regional and remote Australia. It was created to be an adaptable company with innovative, flexible productions, purpose built for non-traditional venues and non-traditional audiences. Co-Opera specialises in engaging and fun productions of great operas, allowing audiences to relax and enjoy an evening of incredible music and performance. I’ve heard this is an historic event for Co-Opera? This year, Co-Opera’s newly appointed Musical Director, distinguished South Australian conductor and organist Josh van Konkelenberg, will make his conducting debut for the company. It is an historic event and one which Co-Opera hopes will also make this a very special tour for audiences. Josh is thrilled to be hitting the road as MD, as he understands how significant live opera can be. “Our repertoire tells stories that belong to everyone and need to be constantly retold in such a way that they touch people’s lives with a real force and immediacy.” What is the opera about? The Barber of Seville is a comic caper by Gioachino Rossini, inspired by a French play. The story revolves around the antics of characters straight from the Italian Commedia dell’Arte, who leap out of the pages of music with brilliance, laughter and fun. The Barber is the most popular and well known of all comic operas and with this production predominantly in English, all the mischievous twists and turns of the plots and the hilarious dramatic situations will be immediately appreciated. This production is set in the Australian goldfields of the 1880s and is a story of mistaken identity, misplaced 32 Coffs Coast focus

affection, and the mysteries and mischief of young love. The plot weaves in and out of wicked We are excited that this schemes, intrigues and dreams that will be the first time will delight and entertain, just as There’s not even a whiff of stuffy that opera has been audiences were entertained centuor formal about it. You can come in presented in an ries ago in small Italian villages. It your casual clothes or bring out your actual theatre in Coffs is a must-see for anyone who loves tiara and pearls - whatever feels Harbour, as opposed a great laugh, great music and a natural to you. to outside spaces, sports great night out. Where is the opera being perstadiums or school halls. There are some locals in the formed? production. How did this come In keeping with our aim to about? activate our community venues Co-Opera takes the vibrant art and create a solid foundation for form of opera to regional and recontinued development of creative programming, we mote Australian towns and encourages local engagement have embarked upon an association with D-Block Theatre at each of its destinations. At this performance they will at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus. Due to the size be accompanied by the Coffs City Choir, who were very limitations of the Jetty Theatre, we have been limited in keen to jump on board. presenting large scale works from high profile companies. “We are nervous, but so looking forward to it,” says Cheryl Cooper, Choir Secretary. We are excited that this will be the first time that opera Who goes to the opera? has been presented in an actual theatre in Coffs Harbour, Co-Opera audiences can be anybody. It is not at all as opposed to outside spaces, sports stadiums or school unusual for audiences to drive in from further afield eshalls. D-Block Theatre offers double the capacity of the pecially for the show and bring the whole family - granny Jetty Theatre, great acoustics and comfortable tiered to kids! Co-Opera productions are accessible, fun, and for seating over two levels, stalls and balcony! everyone. Their productions emphasise the everyday naA café/bar will be on site, as enjoyed by regular Jetty ture of the heroes (and villains) of the stories, and remind Theatre patrons, with Tamburlaine offering wine tasting us that nothing beats a great narrative. of their organic range, and Artisti will be in attendance Co-Opera’s artists always make a point of meeting (and with their fully equipped coffee van. sometimes staying) with the locals, and end up with new Where can we buy tickets? friends at every stop. To that end, we have arranged for Tickets can be booked online at jettytheatre.com or locals to billet the cast members and welcome anyone visit our friendly box office team at the Jetty Theatre, Tues willing to participate in that opportunity to contact us at - Fri, 12 - 4pm; or call 6648 4930. the theatre. Is there a dress code? This is sure to be the opera event of the year!

Coffs Coast focus 33

AS SEEN ON I’M A CELEBRITY... GET ME OUT OF HERE! “THE SUPER-SEXY DIVA OF COMEDY IS DEEPLY, FUNDAMENTALLY FUNNY.” - SYDNEY MORNING HERALD

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

1ST APRIL

Mckenzie + DJ Little J - Hoey Moey Peter Barry - Element Bar

4TH APRIL

Craig Freeman - Element Bar

6TH APRIL

The Aftershock Of Australian Rock Seaview Tavern Jesse Swilks + DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Venus 2 Duo - C.ex Coffs Lazy Sundays - Pier Hotel Club Retro Fridays With DJ Flak3y and DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel Guitar Flamenca - No.5 Church Street

7TH APRIL

FRI 18 MAY C.EX COFFS 18+ EVENT $54.90 ADULT $49.90 CONCESSSION

TICKETS FROM 6652 3888 CEX.COM.AU 34 Coffs Coast focus

DJ Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Johnny And The Easy Riders - C.ex Coffs DJ Bishop - Pier Hotel Doubleshot and DJ Blakey - Coast Hotel Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar

8TH APRIL

The Black Sorrows + Vica and Linda Bull - Hoey Moey The Barber Of Seville - Jetty Theatre Josh Matheson - Element Bar

11TH APRIL

Aqwa - Element Bar

12TH APRIL

Faces Places - Jetty Theatre

13TH APRIL

Lisa Hunt - Hoey Moey Benny Black + DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Living Proof - C.ex Coffs Chris Grieve - Pier Hotel Club Retro Fridays With DjJFlak3y and DJ Bisho - Coast Hotel

Apr.

Songs Of Stage And Screen Feat The 7 Sopranos - Jetty Theatre Tony J. King - Element Bar

14TH APRIL

Mick Bateman - Seaview Tavern Dj Brown Sugar - Hoey Moey Thorazoo - C.ex Coffs Vera Beach Duo - Pier Hotel One Night Stand and DJ Rjay - Coast Hotel Owen Shannon - Element Bar

15TH APRIL

Marshall Okell Band - Hoey Moey Don’t Shoot Me, I Am Still Only The Piano Player - Jetty Theatre Yhan Leal - Element Bar Thundamentals - Coffs Hotel

18TH APRIL

Jake Davey - Element Bar

19TH APRIL

The Dream Of Home - Jetty Theatre Jamie Hutchings - No.5 Church Street Vena Klymo - Element Bar

20TH APRIL

Hekyl & Jive - Seaview Tavern The Funk Thieves + DJ Ob1 - Hoey Moey The Shuffle Boys - C.ex Coffs Quick Fix - Pier Hotel Club Retro Fridays With DJ Rjay and DJ Bisho The Dream Of Home - Jetty Theatre Benny Black - Element Bar

21ST APRIL

Thirsty Merc - Moonee Beach Tavern Mighty Ocean Duo - Seaview Tavern DJ Ob1 - Hoey Moey The Country Superstars Tribute Show - C.ex Coffs

Col Finlay - Pier Hotel 1st Avenue & Dj Flak3y - Coast Hotel The Dream Of Home - Jetty Theatre Akova - Element Bar

22ND APRIL

Jelly Bean Jam - Hoey Moey The Dream Of Home - Jetty Theatre Mark Wilkinson - No.5 Church Street Billie-jo Porter - Element Bar

23RD APRIL

Comedy Circus Stunt Show - C.ex

25TH APRIL

Hat Fitz And Cara - No.5 Church Street Craig Freeman - Element Bar

26TH APRIL

The Divine Order - Jetty Theatre Peter Barry - Element Bar

27TH APRIL

Gunshy - Seaview Tavern Jay Hoad + Dj Layne - Hoey Moey Who's Charlie Duo - C.ex Coffs First Ave - Pier Hotel Club Retro Fridays With Dj Flak3y & Dj Bisho - Coast Hotel The Grigoryan Brothers - Jetty Theatre Chris Grieve - Element Bar

28TH APRIL

Quick Fix - Seaview Tavern Dj Layne - Hoey Moey Chris Anthony & Midnight Drifters - C.ex Coffs Magic Mojo - Pier Hotel Frogmouth & Dj Rjay - Coast Hotel Ocean Film Festival World Tour - Jetty Theatre Craig Atkins - Element Bar

29TH APRIL

Jon Stevens - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Element Bar

D R E A M

I N S P I R E

A C H I E V E

Coffs Coast focus 35

focusinterview.

Age: 37 Years

AARON HARDAKER.

Daniel

KNOX

MID NORTH COAST PHYSIOTHERAPY & SPORTS INJURY CLINICS

Aaron Hardaker is one of the most successful physiotherapists on the North Coast. FOCUS chatted with him to find out more about what it's like being one of the best. What is your connection to the Coffs Coast? I was born and bred on the Coffs Coast, a third generation local. I went to school at St Augustine’s and St John Paul College, so have a strong history in the area. What is your area of expertise? Healthcare providing a one stop shop for health and fitness services on the Coffs Coast. I’ve been a physio for 15 years and have worked in Australia, England and Ireland in a range of healthcare settings, from elite sport to community health. Tell us about some of your achievements. I started my business working one afternoon per week in a small room in Woolgoolga. It has since grown to incorporate four clinic locations, over 15 different healthcare services, and we’ve helped over 5,000 individual clients achieve their

health goals. How do you keep your team motivated? By listening to their needs and goals and creating an environment where they continue to grow and develop. We have a clear focus on teamwork and have developed a strong culture that encourages fun. Do you have any tips to share for the younger generation? Set goals, create a plan and work hard to achieve them. Surround yourself with good people who will help you develop your skills both personally and professionally to be successful; you continually need to change and develop, or you will be left behind. However, the most important tip is to love what you do; this is what will really drive the hard work required to achieve your goals.

focusinterview.

Age: 30 Years

DENISE ARCHER. F I R S T AV E N U E B O U T I Q U E S AW T E L L O W N E R

Describe how you got started in your business? After selling my business in Airlie Beach, I moved back to my hometown on the Coffs Coast. I was working at First Avenue Boutique when the opportunity arose to buy the business - I jumped at the chance, being my favourite shop and seeing the potential for growth. How do you measure success in business? Happiness is everything to me, and I feel like if you can spread it everywhere you go, then you are successful. Success in business is bringing that happiness and spreading it through to your customers and bringing joy into their lives. If I make someone feel beautiful and they leave the shop looking fabulous, then my 36 Coffs Coast focus

job is done. I find when you are authentically yourself and doing something you are passionate about and love, then money always seems to follow. How will you embrace change in 2018? I will embrace change with open arms and head on; I am so excited for all the changes I am bringing to First Avenue Boutique and the Coffs Coast community. I have so many exciting things on the cards; I have a business plan set out for six months, 12 months as far as a five year plan for the business, so expect a lot of exciting things to come as the business progresses and grows. I won’t give away too much at this point, but I can tell you, expect to see things that you haven’t seen here on the Coffs Coast - you are all in for a treat!

Daniel Knox first began working at the Plantation Hotel at the age of 18, selling hotdogs during the Friday and Saturday night entertainment. He asked the venue manager at the time if he could jump behind the bar on his own time to gain some experience and shortly after was offered a paid position as a bartender. From there, he moved around to several different pubs and clubs, before finally returning to the Plantation Hotel in 2013 as a duty manager, working his way up to becoming General Manager in 2016.

hat is your area of expertise? People management and business operation.

How has your business evolved since it began? When I became involved in the operation, it was centred around a nightclub business model. In 2016, we decided to take the hotel in a new direction aimed at sustainable and steady growth in a family friendly market. This has proved very successful, as we continue to evolve and grow as a gastro pub. What is your greatest achievement? I believe my greatest achievement is driving the change of public opinion surrounding the hotel. It’s no secret that at one stage we had a questionable reputation and although much of the public perception was inaccurate, it made it difficult to grow the business. I believe that through the consistent hard work of the team representing the hotel, people generally think of the Plantation as a friendly, comfortable venue to enjoy a fantastic meal or a few drinks with friends. How do you measure success in business? Feedback is a huge factor in defining the success of the business. If you only hear good things, then you must be doing something right! Of course, there is a financial aspect to the success of any business, which comes down to effective management strategies and ensuring that you are consistently meeting and exceeding the expectations of your customers.

What is the best advice you have received? Separate work and home life ... I struggled with this early on, moving in to a role which is very much a round the clock job. The hotel opens at 10am and closes as late as midnight and even if I am not on site, I am usually speaking to someone about something to do with the business. I don’t mind though, as I have the pleasure of working with an awesome team of professionals, all committed to doing the best they can for the business. How will you embrace change in 2018? With open arms! We don’t have anything major in the works, but since the hotel’s recent sale to the Oscar’s Hotel group from Sydney, change is definitely on the horizon … What business leaders do you look up to? I have had many different role models and mentors to look up to. Stewart Meredith, who is my hotel’s rep for Carlton and United Breweries, has helped me to understand a great deal about managing people, effective time management and structuring a business. There are still many little “sayings” he gave me that roll around my head on a daily basis. Do you have any tips to share with the younger generation? Don’t be afraid to take something on which you are not sure about. Being thrown in the deep end is the best way to figure out if you’ll float and when floating is your only option, I promise that you’ll find a way!

NATHAN DOBBS. L I C E N S E D R E A L E S TAT E A G E N T & A C C R E D I T E D A U C T I O N E E R

What is your area of expertise? I specialise in residential and rural residential sales on the Coffs Coast. My core area of expertise would be in the Moonee Beach market, where I have had a lot of success selling rural residential properties and coastal lifestyle properties. I have been fortunate to be awarded the 2018 Agent of the year for Moonee Beach as an individual, and our office has been awarded the Agency of the Year for Moonee Beach as well. I really feel that I have a good understanding of both the coastal residential homes in our area and also those small rural residential acreage homes and what they have to offer. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m very passionate when it comes to selling the lifestyle that we are fortunate to experience on a day to day basis here, as Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m a keen surfer and believe we are spoilt with our amazing beaches. What is the best advice you have received? For me, the main thing that comes to mind is treat those how you expect to be treated. I feel that in any profession you can tell someone how good your company is or you as an individual are, but unfortunately the follow through and promises are often under delivered. In real estate, we are fortunate enough to have a company called ratemyagent. com.au who now allow our sellers and purchasers to write a review on their agent. This is something I personally aim to make sure I deliver on, and have our clients promote our business through their experience. Do you have any tips to share with the younger generation? For those who are considering a career in real estate and especially sales, I would recommend looking to try and join an existing team or shadow an agent. I really feel that working alongside an experienced agent is the best way for any new agent starting out, rather than being thrown in the deep end straight away. We are dealing with the largest assets most people will ever own in their life, so we need to handle them with care and make sure we deliver outstanding results. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also great that across the board the real estate industry as a profession is looking to raise the standards for entry into the industry.

Phone. (02) 6650 0655 Mobile. 0410 356 108 www.nolanpartners.com.au

Coffs Coast focus 37

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SAM WARDMAN. P R I N C I P A L O F C O R N E R P O S T C R E AT I V E

What is your area of expertise? Marketing strategy, creative direction and digital marketing.

Zephyr

GREEN. Crystals connect us to the Earth because they are tangible, physical forms that have powerful vibrations, energy from the sun, the moon, and the oceans. This energy continues to connect with us when we wear crystals close to the skin or place them in our environment.

e are always manifesting. them. Each thought we have I began to stock zephyrgreen jewellery at creates an energy flow edegrees. I created an Instagram page, followed within and around our by a market stall. Honestly I prefer to sell locally physical beings. When and will continue to get out there. The enquiry of manifesting our intentions and what we want to customers viewing, following and buying online create in our life, healing crystals pick up on our is a huge market for all artists and designers, and unique vibrational energy and amplify the positive zephyrgreen will grow with the demand. vibes that we tend in our thoughts. Within How do you measure success in business? zephyrgreen, I have chosen to provide wearable In business I believe one needs to be flexiand affordable crystals to encourage self love and ble and creative with ideas and design, whilst nurture the idea that with Mother Nature as our listening and providing to the needs of the teacher, we can heal ourselves. I use hemp, which customer. I feel success is based on satisfaction is durable, and choose and completion. Setting natural products wherever goals and achieving them possible. Whether you within personal limitations are seeking semi precious is important. The next step is for stones to bring peace How will you embrace zephyrgreen to venture and tranquility into your change in 2018? into providing wearable life, or attracted to their The next step is for crystals and jewellery beauty, crystals have zephyrgreen to venture using silver. I am always chosen you, so if into providing wearable trialling earring and you feel good when you crystals and jewellery using pendant designs based hold the crystal in your silver. I am trialling earring on natural forms. hand or have it touching and pendant designs based your skin, it is likely to on natural forms. Nature be what you deserve. I provides inspiration every currently wrap three origins of clear quartz, rose day within flowers, leaves, stones, shells, crystals, quartz, amethyst and fluorite; I am continually feathers, vibrations and more. I intend to follow adding to the selection to support balance, calm, my passion of providing adornment through emotional wellbeing, healing, reduce stress, and jewellery and crystals, borrowing ideas from protect from negative energy. nature, learning from others and growing as a Describe how you got started in your silversmith. business? Do you have any tips to share with the Many years ago I completed a Diploma in younger generation? Fashion Design in Sydney. My true passion has Do that course, take that subject, master that always been jewellery. I have worked in diverse skill. Time is precious; grow as an individual when retail shops selling and learning about beads, opportunity becomes available to you. findings, silver, gold, diamond and semi-precious Always follow your heart; it will lead you to the crystal jewellery. best version of yourself that you can imagine. I originally wrapped crystals for myself and as How can we get in touch? gifts for friends. Then I began to have people in Instagram - @zephyrgreen_ my daily travels asking me if they could purchase Email - greenchany@hotmail.com 38 Coffs Coast focus

Describe how you got started in your business? I took a chance on creating a marketing consulting business with the belief that I had nothing to lose, and here we are six years later … How has your business evolved since it began? We are now a boutique creative agency, focusing on graphic and website design, digital marketing and interior design services. It’s more of a holistic approach to marketing small to medium sized businesses. How do you measure success in business? Mainly through happy and loyal clients. If they are happy, we are happy! What is the best advice you have received? Always keep your integrity in everything you do. That way you can always be proud of any failures or successes. How will you embrace change in 2018? With whole hearted enthusiasm! Change is good. It allows for realignment and new energies to be

created in what you do, so I always embrace it as an opportunity to evolve. What business leaders do you look up to? It’s no surprise that I admire Richard Branson, Barrack Obama and Simon Sinek. They epitomise what leadership, entrepreneurship and good business is all about. Do you have any tips to share with the younger generation? Pick something you love, follow that passion with enthusiasm and don't doubt it.

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LAUREN VESTEY. OWNER OF LIVING DOLL PREMIER STYLISTS

What is your area of expertise? I own Living Doll Premier Stylists, at the Jetty. We are a new generation in PREMIER Stylists, with the utmost skill, passion and enthusiasm for our craft. Living Doll believes knowledge is the key and continues to encourage ourselves to learn more and keep up with what’s on trend in the hairdressing world. Describe how you got started in your business? I started Living Doll because I am passionate about elevating the industry to a new standard. I love what we do; a great hair style can change people’s lives. How do you measure success in business? I measure success by word of mouth and return business. A quick story; I had a new client who has moved to town recently tell me some lovely news. She had asked three strangers where they got their hair cut, because she admired their hair, and they all said Living Doll. What is the best advice you have received? My father is a very wise man; he has always taught me to treat others how you wish to be treated and you can’t go wrong. So, I like to think I give all my Living Doll Clients the love and attention they deserve. How will you embrace change in 2018?

Change is exciting for us - always looking for the next big thing. It’s great to see the world of hairdressing embracing a much more natural, ammonia-free world. Great for us hairdressers too; working in a lot less toxic atmosphere means we will be able to do it for many more years to come. Do you have any tips to share with the younger generation? Learn as much as you can and never stop. Knowledge is power and the way 2018 is already moving, we don’t want to be left behind. Love what you do, and you never work a day in your life. XO Dolls.

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L E O N E L L A P A S TA

SHEREE

Jeffrey.

i Sheree. Tell us a bit about why you choose to live on the Coffs Coast? The Coffs Coast is my hometown and where I grew up and worked within the hospitality industry. I moved away and became a flight attendant, then moved into sales. When I met my husband and we started a family, I knew straight away that one day I would like to return to Coffs. Coffs Harbour is a very beautiful part of the world, and I feel that it is one of the best places to raise a family, so my husband and I decided to make the move back from Brisbane. We wanted to be closer to family and hopefully provide our children with that same relaxed lifestyle I was lucky enough to enjoy during my childhood. You have a great little business called Leonella Pasta. Can you tell us a bit about it and how it got started? It’s always been a dream of mine to own my own business. The opportunity arose for us to purchase the pasta equipment from Yvonne and Silvano Zecchinati, who owned Zac’s Pasta. We naturally jumped at the opportunity to be able to provide a locally made and exclusive product to the locals of Coffs Harbour. We are 100% a family oriented business and have named the business after our children, as we really wanted to include them in our venture. We have all worked really hard to get to where we are with setting up the commercial manufacturing kitchen; it has been a long process, and we are finally moving forward. Ultimately we would love the business to be successful enough so that our children can one day take the reins. Have you always enjoyed cooking and making pasta? Yes, I have always enjoyed cooking and being from an Italian family, making and eating fresh pasta and gnocchi has

Sheree Jeffery started Leonella Pasta, hoping to pass on the flavours of the traditional Italian pasta she grew up with to the Coffs Coast community. Named after her children, she hopes Leonella Pasta grows to become the kind of business she can pass down to them and that will continue to supply us with quality Italian cuisine for a long time to come. always been a part of our household. I feel very confident and with extruded cuts like penne, macaroni, and angel hair. My comfortable in my ability to make delicious pasta. I completed pasta can be supplied fresh or frozen. How does fresh pasta compare to dried pasta? many certificates/qualifications within the hospitality field Fresh pasta is made from flour and eggs. It is very light, throughout my school and TAFE years here in Coffs. I enjoy creamy like, it is very quick to cook and is best served with a cooking and making food for people to enjoy, and we have simple sauce. It is about the pasta, not the sauce. I find dried been overwhelmed with the love and positive feedback on the pasta a little heavier to eat; it is mainly made with flour and products and dishes we have produced so far. water and does take a little longer to cook. What inspires your cooking and your business? What is the food culture like The inspiration for cooking and this business here on the Coffs Coast? is my Italian heritage. I would love one day to We are very lucky to have be able to pass on this successful business to a wide variety of cuisines my children, so they can then continue passing I have been very spoiled represented in Coffs Harbour. on our heritage and culture to their children. over the years with The Coffs Coast holds many Having visited family in Italy a number of Nonna’s cooking, and food festivals and food sampling times, it has definitely inspired me to bring now I am able to help events; I’m continuously some of our Italian foods to the dinner tables bring this into other impressed with the quality of of my customers. people’s homes. the fresh and prepared produce Where do you sell/distribute your pasta? available here. With so many I sell my products locally, to restaurants, quality farms and newly home cafés and to some retails outlets, with the grown businesses popping vision to expand along the Mid North Coast. up along the coast, it is growing into a larger food oriented I enjoy the relationships I have with my customers, as I also community. It’s great to see, and I look forward to being a do home deliveries and have been lucky enough to form part of the growth. The locals are always keen to try new and relationships with my customers in the local area. We attend exciting cuisines. local food markets and festivals and serve up freshly prepared What other products do you make? dishes for people to enjoy. You can contact me directly on my Our product range extends not only to fresh pasta, but mobile or Facebook page to find out current locations and Gnocchi, Ravioli, Lasagne and Italian sweets - all of which are upcoming festivals you can find us at. lovingly made from scratch in our kitchen in the Boambee Tell us about the process of making your pasta ... Valley. I use three main ingredients: Durum Semolina, free range Where can we get in touch? eggs and water. This gets mixed in the machine, and then it Contact me via Facebook or give me a call on 0434 022 969. comes out on a large roll. The machine does many cuts of Thanks Sheree. pasta: Pappardelle, Fettuccine, Linguine, Lasagne Sheets, along Coffs Coast focus 39

CARMEL Kestles.

FREELANCE MAKEUP ARTIST, DESIGNER AND BUSINESS OWNER

In 2012, Carmel applied for and successfully completed the NEIS program through ETC, with the vision of creating and launching her own swimwear label. She designed several pieces using her knowledge of women’s fashion and classic style and recruited the assistance of local models and photographers from the Coffs Coast. Carmel released her first summer range by the end of 2012. This was a successful introduction to the world of business, and Carmel is eagerly awaiting September 2018 to relaunch her latest designs with the rebranded swimwear label, Thistleberry.

hile the creation of her swimwear label was in progress, friends observed that Carmel had a passion and talent for makeup and were regularly asking if she could provide a service. With little thought, Carmel created a makeup page on Facebook to create interest and started charging a small fee for her services, which rapidly grew. Little did she know that this small passion and love for makeup would grow into a successful and thriving business. Since then, Carmel has never looked back. As her natural talent as a freelance makeup artist grew, Carmel started investing into education and training with some of Australia’s most recognised makeup artists. She continues to seek cutting edge training and techniques, with the drive and desire to always do better in her craft. Carmel’s ambition and drive then saw her open a sister business to her makeup artistry. In 2016, Carmel created Harlow Hair & Beauty, which not only complemented her makeup, but allowed her to offer full bridal services to her brides. Her staff grew from one to four, as she continued to listen to the public and introduce more services through her business. Carmel is now recognised as Coffs Harbour’s most sought out bridal and glamour makeup artist, with regular new bookings for interstate weddings and the development of education and training 40 Coffs Coast focus

for other developing artists. On her journey, Carmel has learnt that it isn’t just the makeup artistry and making her clients feel amazing that she loves. She has also discovered her true passion for business and social media. “This whole experience has opened up many new doors for me and allows me to explore other areas through collaboration with other businesses especially through social media, which is really exciting. I get a lot of satisfaction out of seeing people succeed at what they love to do and if it’s business and I get to be a part of that, even better.” Carmel believes that if you’re passionate about anything you can make it your profession, as long as you’re good at it and know how to market yourself. Social media has been a huge pinnacle in the success of Carmel's business and has been the best and most affordable platform for her to market. "It’s visual, and your reach potential is endless." Instagram has been a turning point for Carmel, and her business is now not only about sharing her makeup artistry, but brand advertising. Businesses are now approaching her to collaborate. Carmel is learning in the world of social media that she is becoming the brand herself and that her makeup, swimwear label and salon are offshoots of something that has become so much bigger. Carmel looks up to many business leaders, but the people who inspire her the most are the business owners/ peers within our local community on the

Coffs Coast. They're the women and men she has relationships with, who are passionate, driven to thrive and are invested in this community. They are the people who are humble supporters and who encourage each other to do better. They are the people who celebrate the success of others. Carmel doesn't take the notion of “success” lightly. “I personally don’t think success can be measured. It’s different for everyone. We are all at different stages and have a desire for different things. If we are setting goals and trying, that is success. There is a difference between giving up and failure. One of my favourite quotes that I apply to life and business is: ‘When you take risks you learn that there will be times when you succeed and there will be times when you fail, and both are equally important’ - Ellen DeGeneres.” While Carmel is excited to see where 2018 takes her, her plans are to focus on developing her makeup skills, take a few steps back and revisit business basics. She is focusing on giving her full attention to her clients, brides and making improvements in all aspects of her businesses, including her swimwear label relaunch. The best business advice Carmel would like to share is: “Be human. Build relationships. Listen. And work until your ideas become your competition.” Carmel Kestles: www.carmelkestles.com @Carmelkestlesmakeupartist (Instagram)

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Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

Daniel HEATHER. C O F F S H A R B O U R C I T Y C O U N C I L / S TA D I U M & M A J O R E V E N T S

ell us a little bit about yourself, Daniel ... Born and bred on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, I have spent close to 20 years in event management running major events across Australia and New Zealand. While I wasn’t really looking to leave Sydney, the position with Council came up, and after researching the Coffs Coast, I felt compelled to put my name in the ring. Now two and a half years on, my wife and I have settled in happily at Emerald Beach and welcomed our little boy, Taj, to the world, who spends more time at the beach than me yes, slightly jealous! What is your role at Council, and what does it entail? As the Section Leader for Stadium and Major Events, I work within the City Prosperity team, which also oversees industry and tourism development. My role is twofold; firstly, venue management for the C.ex Coffs International Stadium, which is largely operational management of the venue and the Coffs Coast Sport and Leisure Park precinct. I work with an incredibly talented team of greenkeepers, event coordinators, sports development and event bookings officers. Our team also maintains around 20 local sport fields throughout the area. The second area I focus on is attracting and assisting with major events. This might be handson organisation of major events on behalf of the city, or working with other groups and businesses to help get their event over the line. What role do you play in bringing major events to the Coffs Coast? Largely, it’s a support role. Councils can sometimes be perceived as blocking creativity or creating red tape, and this would be challenging for event organisers trying to bring events to the region. The Stadium and Major Event section of Council doesn’t want this label. We

take a proactive role in working and partnering with event organisers, suppliers and venues to make running events on the Coffs Coast easier. Events are a big economic driver for all sorts of businesses across the region, and one of our goals is to attract, grow and keep events in Coffs Harbour - so making it easier is a logical starting point. There have been some major events held on the Coffs Coast in recent years, such as National Oz Tag, AFL and soccer matches. What’s planned for the future? Coffs Harbour is in a strong position with the C.ex Coffs International Stadium. The playing surface is nationally regarded as one of the best, broadcast capable lighting allows us to attract televised games, and the Leisure Park Precinct provides large volumes of playing fields capable of hosting major tournaments. Now with the grandstand upgrades taking place in 2018/2019, we are really cementing our position as regional NSW’s premier sports facility. We have also worked hard to develop strong relationships with sports like AFL and cricket at a state and national level, the FFA and many others. A big part of our success as a regional venue is thanks to these relationships. Just recently we have seen OzTag confirm Coffs Harbour to host four competitions each year through until 2021. Touch Football Australia also announced another four year partnership with the city, and we are working on a number of events to coincide with the new grandstands being completed. There seems to be a positive movement of new public events on the Coffs Coast, such as Blues & Berries, Jetty Food & Wine Festival and the Screenwave International Film Festival, just to name a few. What role do you play in assisting these events to come to life? I think it’s fantastic to see growth in this area. Coffs Coast has several regular (and spectacular!)

annual events and festivals. The ones you mention happen largely thanks to some very passionate local people. However, there is room for more. Recently we saw Midnight Oil and Paul Kelly play in Coffs, as well as a number of other great acts; without a purpose-built entertainment centre or outdoor performance space, we can be overlooked for these types of events. Whether we are working with local operators or national touring companies, our team can help identify possible event sites, and help navigate the complex requirements needed to run a safe and successful event. Major events often require many different groups to work together, and we can help to facilitate this. What would you say are the key positives about doing business on the Coffs Coast? I am continually impressed by the level of quality, professionalism, creativity and passion from businesses in Coffs Harbour. I am sure some regional areas would need to look to capital cities to get quality products and services, but not in Coffs … we have it all right here! There is also a high level of collaboration between businesses on the Coffs Coast. It feels as though many businesses share the “big vision” - that by supporting each other and supporting events, it will ultimately help grow the region and in turn, benefit businesses. Building strong relationships with stakeholders must play a large part of your role; what is your approach to this? Absolutely; it’s a big part of the role. I have always taken pride in building rapport with people. I think being able to adapt your style when working with different people helps greatly. It doesn’t mean you need to change your values or not be true to yourself; however, being able to relate to people and find common ground just allows you to work together with ease. Events are very collaborative projects, and their success relies on many stakeholders working together, so being

able to have a good working relationship with everyone involved is essential to get the job done. What marketing tools have you used to promote events in the past, and what do you find most successful? It is important to understand your target audience, and make sure you are using the most effective channels to reach that audience. If your event targets women over 50, you would not have the same campaign if your event was targeting 18 - 25 year olds. A well rounded advertising campaign is always good, if budget permits. More and more people rely on social media, and don’t get me wrong, it can be very effective, but it should be just one part of your marketing mix. Generally people need to see a new message numerous times before they act. So if they see a Facebook post, an ad or editorial in a magazine like FOCUS, a street poster, and hear it on the radio, you’ll have a higher rate of success than just relying on just one medium. Your “call to action” is also critical. Creating awareness is hard enough, so think about what you want people to do when you have their attention; for example, “buy tickets online now”. And finally, something I have always found works well is creating engagement with your event before it actually starts, through a competition, for example. A high level of engagement creates a high level of “word of mouth” and excitement around your event, which will ultimately be your most powerful marketing tool. What excites you about the Coffs Coast? What’s still to come! On a personal level I love where we live, surfing and exploring the beautiful region, and from a professional perspective, I feel as though the Coffs Coast is on the verge of big things and am so thrilled to be part of it all. It’s exciting times! Thanks Daniel. Coffs Coast focus 41

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BIANCA De Jong

Age: 36 Years

SAM Perry N O R T H C O A S T B O AT I N G C E N T R E

FOCUS sat down with Bianca De Jong to find out more about how she will be representing Australia in the Australian Futsal under 16s Girls Team in Italy - and how you can help her get there.

an you tell us a little about yourself? I’m a local girl, having moved to Sawtell with my family 10 years ago. I have been attending Bishop Druitt College since Kindergarten and now I am in Year 10 in the high school there. I love living here. I love the beaches, the lifestyle in Sawtell and of course, playing soccer. I have been playing soccer for the Sawtell Football Club for five years and started playing Futsal to keep fit in the off season. I never dreamed that at 15 years old, I would be representing Australia. What is Futsal, and how did you come to play at such a high level? Futsal is a high intensity, fast paced, dynamic, version of football (soccer). It is the only five-aside version of football officially recognised by FIFA and is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. In 2017, together with a team from school, I represented Bishop Druitt College in the Regional School Futsal Championships; from there, I was selected in the Far Northern NSW Squad to compete at the National School Futsal Championships, which were held in Brisbane in September. At the Nationals, we played teams from all over Australia, and I was over the moon when I was told that I had been selected for the Australian 16s Girls Futsal Team. There are 10 girls from all over the country, and together with our coaches and support crew we will be touring Italy for three weeks in May. How does it feel to be representing your 42 Coffs Coast focus

country at such a young age, and where will you be travelling? Actually, I was really surprised. I loved the experience with the FNNSW team at the National Championships. I made lifelong friends and had an amazing experience, so to be selected for the Australian team was a bonus. It is a real honour to be selected to represent my town and my country at this level. Our team will travel to Italy in May to play games against national and regional Italian teams. We will travel all over Italy, including Rome, Florence and Naples. I am very excited about it. What are your plans for the future? For now, all I can think about is Italy. I’m training hard, eating well and trying to stay focused. It’s hard to imagine what impact this could have on my life, so I am going into it with an open mind. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity. How can we help you fulfil your dream and represent Australia in Italy in 2018? I love the friends you make playing soccer and Futsal, and it really is a dream to be playing for Australia - but it’s expensive, so we are fundraising to help cover the costs. We’ve been selling chocolates (and eating some too!), we have a raffle and we’ve approached some businesses to help with the cause. I am very thankful to everyone who has helped so far. If anyone wants to contribute or find out more information, they can contact us at futsalbianca@gmail.com Thanks Bianca.

hat is your area of expertise? I am a marine technician. I specialise in repairing marine engines - my expertise is in the diagnostics and repairs of complicated engine issues and hard to solve mechanical problems. I really enjoy applying technology to diagnostics - there is some impressive technology out there, and I can get some amazing data on my engines these days. Describe how you got started in your business? I started at age 15 - I began doing a few hours over the weekends, just helping out a local marine mechanic. This turned into a full apprenticeship, and then it all took off from there. When he retired, I took over the reins as the local marine technician, and I then expanded into retail and sales. How has your business evolved since it began? I started my business as a mobile business, which I operated out of a ute - this was known as North Coast Mobile Marine. I travelled for repair jobs to people's houses and boat ramps etc. From there, I built a strong clientele and eventually had a strong enough following to open a small premises. After a few years, I outgrew this and got my first motor dealership, boat dealership, then trailers, additional equipment etc. - moving to a bigger premises yet again. Once the work got too much for me, I began hiring apprentices and have five staff now. What is your greatest achievement? I have been recognised for outstanding sales in my area. In 2016 I sold over 100 engines. I'd say this is likely because anyone can sell

an engine, but I have unrivalled mechanical knowledge to support customers once they purchase the engine. How do you measure success in business? I measure success by the number of long time clients I have; the greater the longevity of my customers, the more successful I am. What is the best advice you have received? Word of mouth is the best advertising you can get. Be honest and fair; do great work. How will you embrace change in 2018? Although I couldn't say exactly how I will embrace change just yet, I can tell you that I most certainly will - you've got to be dynamic to survive. Part of how I got to where I am, is being flexible, problem solving and embracing the changes that flow through my industry, whatever they may be. What business leaders do you look up to? For me, again it's about longevity. I admire local businesses who have stood the test of time, weathered change and continued to grow with the times. The owners of these businesses are the leaders I have learnt so much from and the ones I look up to. Do you have any tips to share with the younger generation? I see all too often that younger generations live in a culture of instant gratification. They want everything, and they want it now. This isn't the reality of growing a successful business. You have to do it over time, and with careful thought and planning. My tips are - work on developing your patience, your resilience and your grit and stickability. Stay with your goals, and recognise that they are long term in many cases. It's all about a growth mindset! Thanks Sam.

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NICOLA Ruitenberg. TA L E N T D E P O T / 3 9 Y E A R S O F A G E

Talent Depot is a talent agency based on the beautiful Coffs Coast, servicing Port Macquarie through to Byron Bay. They provide a diverse range of talent for work in TV commercials, print, films and event promotions. FOCUS had a chat to the director, Nicola Ruitenberg, to find out more ...

hat is your area of expertise? Managing talent! I’ve managed keynote speakers, models, actors, event staff and even child talent! I’ve owned and operated two child modelling agencies in the past, one Melbourne based and one national, and I currently own a business that looks after keynote speakers. Describe how you got started in your business ... I moved to the Coffs Coast nearly four years ago. Having done some modelling in the past, I found myself picking up a few jobs here and there for TV commercials and photo shoots, through different contacts, but noticed there wasn’t an agency presence here or anywhere along the Mid North Coast. It got me thinking that there must be a need for an agency to supply local talent, for someone to take the hard work out of looking for suitable talent and have a one stop shop for businesses to find the perfect fit for what they need. I also wanted to nurture local talent and find them paid work. In 2016 and 2017 I was asked to supply event staff for various activations within a major sporting event, and that’s when I decided to launch a full-service agency, that would supply actors, models and event staff to the Mid North Coast, from Port Macquarie through to Byron Bay. How has your business evolved since it began? Although the business is still relatively new, it’s been so well received! Within the first month we received three job briefs for holiday park shoots and shopping centre promotions and have had 13 talent booked. From the

smallest inkling there may be a market for this, to actually stores, video stores and companies like Kodak to see that if bringing it to life and having it embraced has been so you don’t change, or don’t change quickly enough, you risk exciting! losing it all. What is your greatest achievement? What business leaders do you look up to? Living my current life. It’s always been my dream to run a I don’t really look up to any business leaders. I prefer to business that’s successful, have the freedom to work where focus on what I’m doing; however, I do admire anyone with and when I want and to be able to enjoy the Coffs lifestyle! the guts to take on the challenge of starting a business. How do you measure Do you have any tips to share with the success in business? younger generation? That’s a tricky one, and If you don’t want to work hard, don’t really, everyone measures run your own business. Things are never Personally, I measure success in their own way handed to you on a silver platter. If you my success based on the whether that be having the want something, go and get it. Get rid of freedom I have, coupled flexibility and freedom to do drama, both personally and professionally; with making a good what they want, to making a it will suck the life out of you. Have a strong living and providing a good income, to having a team sense of self-worth and self-belief. Do your sought-after service to behind them, to taking their research and make sure your business plan is the community. business national. Personally, I viable. It’s great to open up a business, but measure my success based on if there are 20 others in the same area, how the freedom I have, coupled are you going to differentiate yourself? with making a good living and Don’t think you need a team behind you providing a sought-after service to the community. straight away (unless you can afford it, of course!) If you What is the best advice you have received? don’t know how to do something, learn! This is a great way Keep learning. Question everything. Troubleshoot. to build your skill base and puts you in a strong position How will you embrace change in 2018? moving forward. Like I do every year - with open arms! If your business is Where can we find out more? not constantly changing, then your business is in trouble! www.talentdepot.com.au Whatever your product or service is, you need to move https://www.facebook.com/pg/TalentDepotMNC/ and change with the times, adapt to new technology, new @talentdepot laws, be on top of things that could change the way your chat@talentdepot.com.au industry works. You only have to look at the likes of book Thanks Nicola. Coffs Coast focus 43

focus_tourism

WITH STEPHEN SAUNDERS OF TOURISM COFFS COAST

tourism UPDATE

Experience a new age in luxury cruising. Dream Cruises aims to redefine cruising with inspirational luxury and transformational journeys at sea. Our two ships, Genting Dream and World Dream are vessels designed to make your dreams come true - featuring the comfort of authentic Asian hospitality combined with only the finest experiences from around the world. Genting Dream and World Dream feature some of the latest and most unexpected, horizon expanding experiences on the planet. Explore deep beneath the ocean, dance under the stars at one of the top night clubs, savour new concoctions created at one of our bar concepts or sit back, relax and enjoy some exclusive pampering, the food lovers can tantalise their taste buds in one of our 35 restaurants - and that’s just the beginning… Despite the name “Come with us Cruises”, you offer a lot more than just cruises -

don’t you? Can you tell us a little bit about what services you offer? Yes, we do. We can organise and sell all aspects of travel, from holiday packages like Club Med to sporting tours, flights - domestic and international, hotels, car hire, transfers and travel insurance. You offer tours; how does that work? At the moment we have organised three cruise tours - one to Asia, another to New Zealand and a six day golf tour. Sue and I (Grant) will be travelling on all three tours as your hosts; these tours are on our web page at www.comewithuscruises.com.au It can be daunting planning a holiday, and adding young children to the mix can make it even harder. Can you help with planning a holiday for the whole family? No worries at all. We can plan and organise family holidays in Australia or around the world from resorts, bus tours, car rental etc.

Celebrating Our Success From highly awarded nature reserves and indigenous cultural experiences, to fabulous new food events and the exciting stadium upgrade … tourism on the Coffs Coast is the big winner, with benefits flowing across the region to businesses and the community. GET INTO NATURE Have you been to Sealy Lookout to enjoy the spectacular views from Forest Sky Pier? This local icon received a Bronze Award for Best Tourism Attraction at the recent 2017 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. Up against incredible destinations from around the country, ranging from Questacon science and technology centre in Canberra (the Gold Award winner) to cage diving with White Pointer sharks off the South Australian coast, Sealy Lookout continues to win accolades and the praise of visitors to our region. Located within Bruxner Park Flora Reserve, Orara East State Forest, Forest Sky Pier is only five kilometres from Coffs Harbour and offers amazing panoramic vistas from mountains to the coastline. The Pier extends 21 metres out from the Lookout and rises 15 metres above the forest floor, giving visitors a true “bird’s eye” experience. With a range of bushwalks to suit all skill levels, and great accessible picnic areas, visitors can also grab a coffee and a snack from the Nyanggan Gapi coffee van, supporting after school learning centres, language revitalisation programs and culture camps for indigenous youth on the Coffs Coast. INDIGENOUS CULTURE Orara East State Forest is also an important site for the local Gumbaynggirr people, who have shared a dreaming story through a walking track from Korora Lookout with contemporary sculpture, murals and signage. It’s the story of Gumgali, the black goanna, and this walk is truly unique in that it offers a culturally rich experience surrounded by sparkling ocean and coastal landscape views. The Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience held at the lookout every month is another great way for visitors and locals to learn even more. The experience includes information about local history through language, stories, bush tucker and traditional dance. A new video aimed at visitors looking to experience the unique Gumbaynggirr local culture as part of their holidays is currently featured on www.coffscoast.com - developed as a collaboration between Coffs Coast tourism and the Bularri Muurlay Nyanggan Aboriginal Corporation, the video captures the

44 Coffs Coast focus

traditional connection between culture through interpretation of language to significant local landscapes, including Muttonbird Island, Coffs Creek, Arrawarra and Moonee Headland. BMNAC Executive Officer, Clark Webb said, “This cultural video will help to grow tourism, which provides intergenerational cultural knowledge, local employment and reinvestment of profits back into local language revitalisation initiatives.” STADIUM UPGRADE New building works at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium and Leisure Parks Precinct have begun, and Council’s Stadium and Events Team have been working hard to ensure that sporting events which attract thousands of competitors and visitors to the Coffs Coast year round are unaffected. During the construction of the two new grandstands, the current grandstand will remain fully operational. Once these new facilities come online towards the end of this year, work will begin on the redevelopment of the original grandstand. Fortunately, all playing surfaces in the precinct will remain fully operational during the construction work. Two exciting new events coming to town during this busy time are the AFL Masters in September and the Tag World Cup in November. Additionally, OzTag have recently confirmed Coffs Harbour to host four competitions each year through until 2021, and Touch Football Australia also announced another four year partnership with the city. Local tourism and hospitality operators and many other businesses will continue to enjoy the benefits flowing from these major sporting events. NEW FOOD EVENT Congratulations to the team at Taste Coffs Coast, who have recently launched another Eat Street Woolgoolga event in April and will again be bringing their hugely popular Blues & Berries Community Fair to the Woopi beach front in November. The Coffs Coast is fortunate to have many passionate individuals who create and develop opportunites such as these, with many of these events attracting visitors to our region from around NSW and beyond. #createyourparadise

Appliances Custom Kitchens Flooring

Appliance Warehouse Can you tell us a little bit about the amazing new kitchens you have on offer? We offer a range of kitchens which can be suited to all budgets. Our kitchens are all very high quality and custom made to order. Our kitchens are mostly painted (2pac polyurethane) in any Dulux colour, and we have our own stunning range of quartz, natural quartz and granite benchtops. Can you help with the design? We are more than happy to help with the kitchen design. Our team have over 25 years’ combined experience in kitchen design and always achieve the best results and take into account all of the clients’ input. Clients can visit our kitchen showroom and go over their kitchen plans and ideas, or we can visit onsite at no cost. We have 3D design programs which show the elevations and 3D kitchen images.

Can you provide appliances as well? Yes, we have been selling brand new and factory second appliances for over 10 years, and we offer amazing prices and service. We sell all the major brands with full manufacturer warranties. Are your kitchens flat pack? Yes, our kitchens come flat pack; however, we can assemble the kitchens for our clients for a small fee. All the kitchens come with everything provided for the DIY enthusiast; however, we are more than happy to recommend professional, insured and licensed tradespeople. Besides your wonderful kitchens, what other products do you have on offer? We sell premium floating floors, such as bamboo, laminate and vinyl plank. Come into our showroom; you will be pleasantly surprised at what we can offer you.

Local events, local forests. The beautiful State Forests of the Mid North Coast play host to a range of different events, from fast paced car rallies, horse endurance rides, to adventure races. Forestry Corporation is excited to be working with Kerry and Mathew from Coastal Sport and Fitness in Port Macquarie in staging the inaugural Elephant Trail Run over 20th, 21st and 22nd July. Kerry says: The Elephant Trail run is in Cairncross State Forest. The event gets its name from Mt Cairncross and the undulating hills resembling an elephant lying down with its trunk out-stretched! Wanting everyone to experience the “Elephant”, we are offering 160 km, 100 km Solo/Teams of Two, 50 km, 25 km, 13 km and a FREE Kids Race. We are very excited to say that the race has made it as a qualifying race to gain points to qualify for UTMB© (Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc, the World Summit of Ultra Trail Running). Only six

races in Australia qualify for a max of six points (100 Miler) and we are one of three that have five points (100 km) - this is great news in trail running circles! Cairncross State Forest provides not only the distance and elevation, but hosts many hidden gems amongst the diverse landscape. This treasure is right on our doorstep, and we want to share this with locals and visitors alike. We love trail running in State forests and taking our kids out there to show how the forests are so important to the environment and local communities. Coastal Track and Trail Runners hold an annual Forest Permit to take trail running to other magical locations across the Hastings area, including Burrawan, Queens Lake, Broken Bago, and Kerewong State Forests - look out for their distinctive red Land Rover in a forest near you!

Coffs Coast focus 45

101 THINGS TO DO VALERY HORSE TRAILS EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

THE BIG BANANA FUN PARK

If you want to experience an outdoor horseride in scenic countryside, then Valery Trails is the place to be...with over 45 horses, ride in large or small groups. Our team of experienced guides will accompany you. Non riders can relax around the pool, free tea or coffee available. Other programmes are ladies rides, saddle club, equine therapy, pony walks, lessons and birthday parties. Valery Trails is close to Bonville Golf Club, Butterﬂy House, Paintball and Raleigh Go-Karting. 758 Valery Road PHONE: 02 66534301 EMAIL: info@valerytrails.com.au WEB: www.valerytrails.com.au FB: @VHT.valeryhorse.trails

The Big Banana Fun Park is the BIGGEST Fun Park on the Northern NSW coast! It boasts 8 fantastic attractions including a 17.5m tall Giant Slide, Toboggan ride, Laser Tag arena, 36 hole Mini Golf course, Theatre and Plantation Tour, Ice Skating rink, Family Fun Zone and the biggest Water Park between Sydney & the Gold Coast! TRADING: Open 9am to 5pm 7 days including Easter (Attractions operating hours are extended during NSW School Holidays) ADDRESS: 351 Paciﬁc Highway, Coffs Harbour PHONE: 02 66524355 WEB: www.bigbanana.com

RALEIGH WINERY Located just 15 minutes south of Coffs Harbour the award winning Raleigh Winery is a great spot to visit. Whether you are holidaying here or a local the Raleigh Winery is a destination with the lot; a scenic drive, great views and free wine tasting on arrival! Sample the range of unique Boutique Wines, Red and White Fortiﬁed Wines and their famous handmade Brandy Cremes. Relax with a tasty cheese platter on the riverside deck and soak up the breathtaking views across the Bellinger River to the mountains. TRADING: Open Wed to Sun 10am-5pm. 7 days during NSW school holidays. ADDRESS: 36 Queen Street, Raleigh NSW 2454 PHONE: 02 6655 4388 WEB: raleighwines.com.au EMAIL: info@raleighwines.com.au

www.coffscoast.com.au 46 Coffs Coast focus 16 coffs coast focus.

NATURE + MAPS + EXPLORING = ORIENTEERING

Our adventurous rogaine-style score events return to the program this Winter with both urban and bush events. Gather your team of 2 – 5 people and put your navigation skills to the test, while enjoying a fun day out. Our Winter calendar has monthly events from May to August. All details on our website: www.bboc.asn.au Or call Helen on 0478 226 601

101THINGS TO DO ON THE COFFS COAST

Coffs Coast is home to some of the best mountain bike and cycling trails in Australia. There are options for every skill level including lush green farmland of Bonville Creek through to the rocky western hinterland slopes of Coramba. You can track your ride using the STRAVA app on your phone.

COFFS CREEK + HARBOUR LOOP

MT CORAMBA DOWNHILL

PINE CREEK (COWS WITH GUNS)

WOOLGOOLGA COASTAL LOOP

D I F F I C U LT Y R A T I N G BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE

D I F F I C U LT Y R A T I N G ADVANCED

D I F F I C U LT Y R A T I N G BEGINNER TO INTERMEDIATE

Coffs Creek has a fantastic

This two kilometres downhill trail

Cows With Guns is situated in Pine

The coastal loop ride is located

bike track that loops through

is surrounded by the beauty of the

Creek State Forest, near Bonville.

between Woolgoolga and Arrawarra

mangroves and coastal swamp

Coffs Harbour forested areas with

The forest is an official bike park

is one of the best ways to appreciate

forests which is located right in

spectacular views of the mountains

and is the venue for most of the

our stunning coastline. The ride is

the middle of Coffs Harbour. The

and the sea. It is a pure downhill

Coffs Harbour Mountain Bike Club

suitable for families and expert riders

trail is suitable for families with

trail built and managed purely

events. There is a map at the trailhead

as some of the single track has a

a mix of road, bike path, dirt

for the advanced gravity rider by

showing the popular trails, which

huge variety of terrain. The ride may

and boardwalks over sensitive

Dozer’s team at Coffs Downhill

start and ﬁnish at the car park. This

vary in length from 12kms up to 22km

wetland environments. There

who have twenty ﬁve years of

is a great introductory track which

return, depending on the loop you

are many vantage spots to

experience racing, constructing

offers basically ﬂat, ﬂowing single

choose. Whilst the ride is all about

stop including the North Coast

and maintaining the ﬁnest quality

and double tracks hugging the banks

the views, there are some great

Regional Botanic Gardens

of trails. This exciting trail contains

of Pine Creek. The faster you go the

single tracks and a huge variety of

were you can buy some light

an abundance of features including

harder it gets, and there is enough

terrain. The native bush is teaming

refreshments and wander

smooth jumps, exciting drops,

undulation in the track to create some

with birds, the ﬁsh are jumping in

through the natural bush to

fun fast sections and challenging

good ﬂow and clever handmade track

the estuary, seabirds swoop and the

discover some exotic plants

natural obstacles planned and built

building has enhanced every metre.

local ﬂying fox population jostles for

from other sub-tropical regions

around the natural shapes of our

of the world.

beautiful forest.

position.

Check out the Mountain Biking on the ‘Play’ tab on www.coffscoast.com for more info and maps.

CoffsCoast 47 Coffs Coast focus

CoffsCoast

CoffsCoastNSW coffs coast focus. 17

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Hon Luke Hartsuyker and Augusta Supple

Cr Tegan Swan, Aunty Bea Ballangarry and Sarah Pryor

Photo credit: Bruce Thomas/Trackside Photography.

Augusta, Aunty Bea, IWD Committee and Kim Connolly

Photo credit: Bruce Thomas/Trackside Photography.

Country to Coast Pest Control

Raine & Horne Sawtell / Toormina

2018 Focus Women In Business Launch Party

??? 2018 Focus Women In Business Launch Party

Social /Scene

he last of the Sawtell Summer Sessions went off with a blast, with First Avenue in Sawtell being packed from the top of the town right down to the Sawtell Bowling Club. As usual, the street was blocked off for locals and visitors to roam the streets and peruse the shops and eateries car free. It was a great success as usual, but the real fun started when the music began. The crowd were dancing and singing along to local and visiting bands, and the kids ran around and enjoyed the entertainment provided. At Le Dãin Designs we decided to join the party atmosphere and invited the ladies (and a few gents, I might add) to join us in store for a bubbles and a canapé or two! Mind you, I have to say the Sawtell RSL Club were cooking sausage and onion sandwiches right next door, and most of us abandoned the canapés and got lured towards the sausages! Delicious! We usually do our “Red Carpet Nights” on a Friday, but with the great atmosphere and the music and fabulous food, why not take advantage of that! We had Barb from Barbara Wenman’s La Fleur D’Alyse beautifying the ladies, and there was lots of dressing up and a whole lot of laughing and socialising going on. Our Red Carpet Nights may have the “posh” ring to it, but really it is just an opportunity for ladies (gents welcome) of all ages

48 Coffs Coast focus

I am pretty sure the Easter Bunny will be a tad HOT in his white fur coat this Easter, and the chocolate will definitely be melting! It has been in the 40s in Sydney, and Mother Nature still has the thermo set on “Sizzling Summer Days” up here on the Coffs Coast!

to come along, meet new people and have some fun. We also sometimes raise some money for local charities or schools, which makes the mini events more special. Most people go out after to have dinner at one of the lovely eateries on First Avenue. Come along and join us one Friday night from 5:30 - 7:30pm. No invitation necessary; just rock up, casual or dressed up, and meet some new people. Enquiries call 0417 471 019. We attended the 50th birthday party of a special friend just recently. The lovely Kirsten Howton, who has just been voted Coffs Harbour’s Woman of the Year, was celebrating a special one. Everyone was asked to wear a touch of ORANGE, which is the obviously the favourite colour! We all rocked up to The Indian Cottage Restaurant at Sawtell for some music, fun and absolutely delicious food. The staff is so friendly, and the atmosphere is great! The venue is the perfect place to hold a celebration. Aside from making new friends, there were lots of memories created and old friends reuniting. Happy birthday, Kirsten. x The FOCUS team attended the International Women’s Day Breakfast at the Coffs C.ex just recently. This event is always super popular and there were over 320 attendees, including senior students from our local high schools. The Zonta Young Women in Public Affairs and Pat Funnell Award winners once again wowed the audience

with their poise and messages. The keynote speaker this year was Augusta Supple, who spoke of her journey from Coffs Harbour to performing on the international stage. After a delicious breakfast, the winner of the International Women’s Day was announced. Aunty Bea Ballangary was the worthy winner, and Kyla Holley from the Australian Centre for Eating Disorders was the runner-up. The IWD in Coffs Harbour is celebrated every year as a joint initiative of Zonta Coffs Harbour Inc. BPW Coffs Harbour and Coffs Coast BWN. We are so lucky on the Coffs Coast to really have something for everyone. The Coffs Harbour Regional Gallery welcomed everyone to join them in celebrating World Poetry Day. That sounded beautifully alluring, before you even got there! Light refreshments were served, as guests got to enjoy an entertaining session of Sea Themed poems on the Open Mic. The Rime of the Ancient Mariner is the longest major poem by the English Poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge, which was written in 1797-1798. It relates to the experience of a sailor who has returned from a long sea voyage. It is definitely something different. The exhibition, which runs until the 31st March 2018, is situated at 215 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. The doors are open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10pm to 4pm. I am giving you all the details, because one of our aims at FOCUS is to get everyone to have

the opportunity to enjoy all the Coffs Coast has to offer! The FOCUS front cover team once again turned work into an amazing experience! Nicci, our photographer Gavin and I were down on the farm … the New Life Farm, to be exact. We joined the beautiful Alice Williams and Darren Smith to produce the amazing front cover for this edition. Nicci and I are animal lovers and went quite berserk with the gorgeous farm animals. Alice has a pet sheep called Soy Boy … He is most definitely a FOCUS model now! He didn’t quite make the front cover, as he is very well loved, and could be described as just a bit too woolly (plump, I would call it he he!) for the front cover. I have said it before, but I will say it again, I am so proud to be the Coffs Coast FOCUS front cover fashion stylist. I get to work with these super talented and hardworking people, and we make a great team. I slid Alice into the black “Snake Dress” and adorned her with a few freshwater pearls from Le Dãin Designs. The hair and make-up was by Living Doll Premier Stylists. We stayed until dusk and enjoyed the beauty of the farm … Lucky us! Here is enjoying ... Everything we are blessed with …

Carole Beros, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

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

2018 Focus Women In Business Launch Party

Leonie Perrin, Val Browning, Marg and Kym Bellamy

Social /Scene Tim Saladine, Brett Dobson, Shane Burns

Gayle Graham, Kirsten Howton

Anthony and Jeanette Hollan

Darren Wilson, Janelle Walley, Wendy and Trevor Hardy

Russ Holland, Kirsten Howton

Richard Ryan, Kirsten Howton, Key Ryan

Jasmin and Angela Van Den Bosch, Nicole Bourne, Carla Marchant

Christine Rengger, Leisa Klingbiel, Gail De Groot

Indian Cottage Sawtell Crew

Matt Grabovsky and Nat Hoban from Pacific Vet Care

Coffs Coast focus 49

Health Wellbeing focushealth

and

WITH LAUREN VESTEY FROM LIVING DOLL

H E A LT H A D V I C E W I T H C O F F S C O A S T N U T R I T I O N

living doll

ibs month

A good haircut is really empowering.

awareness

Haircuts usually happen for one of two reasons: 1) Something major has happened in your life, or 2) you no longer recognise the dry cluster of straw on your head as hair. Sure, there are always the responsible individuals

who get multiple haircuts a year and keep their strands in top shape, but this article isn’t for those select few (sorry).

nstead, this is for everyone out there who’s looked at their lacklustre strands and wondered, “Is it time?” (Most of the time, the answer is, “Yes”.)

We spoke with Lauren Vestey, premier stylist and owner of Living Doll on the Jetty Strip and asked her not only for the most common signs that it’s time for a chop, but if there is any way to make your hair actually grow faster. Firstly, signs you need a cut: • When you find yourself always wearing your hair pulled up into a ponytail or bun instead of leaving it down, stylist Lauren at Living Doll Premier Stylists says it’s time for a cut. • Take a long, hard look at your ends. If your ends are straggly, stringy or split, get them chopped off. Split end-sealing products are only a temporary fix, and trimming frayed strands is the only way to ensure they don’t get worse. • When you have trouble getting the volume you want, and your style always falls flat, it’s time to get refreshed. • When your curly hair starts to form into a triangular shape, Lauren says that means it’s too heavy and you need a trim. • Damaged hair strands tend to stick to each other like Velcro; whereas, healthy, smooth hair slides off itself with ease. So, if you have very fine strands, getting super-tangled more easily is a sign that it’s time for a cut. • When your usual product system isn’t doing its job, or you need to use more than usual to keep up your style, it’s due to the fact that you need 50 Coffs Coast focus

a cut. • And finally, plain old boredom can be a sign you’re due for a cut. Add some layers, chop it short; simply making a change can have a huge effect on the relationship between you and your hair. Just about every woman in the world wishes her hair would grow faster. Whether you're recovering from a bad haircut or you're trying to change up a shorter style cut, growing out your hair can be a bit frustrating. And while it might take a while, there are things you can do to help your hair grow faster. • Certain foods can promote hair grow. It's not a myth! Certain foods can help accelerate the hair-growth process, along with vitamins and minerals. Lauren suggests talking to your local health food shop for the best advice to suit your personal needs. • Hey, it's OK to skip a wash. If you wash your hair every day, you may be removing natural oils that can nourish your scalp and promote hair growth. Wash every other day and use dry shampoo or a gentler cleansing conditioner between washes. • When you do wash your hair, it's important to focus on your scalp. Massaging your scalp with your fingertips for about three minutes a day helps to stimulate the hair follicles. To enhance the effects, apply a hair mask or conditioner to your scalp at the same time. Finally, now you see you most likely need the much-awaited trim. The premier stylists at Living Doll will be there to help. XO Dolls.

April is IBS Awareness Month. If you think you may have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), you might be tempted to try treating the symptoms on your own. Unfortunately, these measures can delay effective treatment.

alking to one of the experienced Dietitians at Coffs Coast Nutrition can put you on the right track and help you to avoid needless suffering.

The most important first step in treating IBS is a confident diagnosis of the condition. It is important not to self-diagnose, because the symptoms of IBS can be similar to other medical conditions. Symptoms of IBS typically include a change in stool frequency and/or form - i.e. diarrhoea or constipation. The pain is often relieved by having a bowel movement and may be worse after eating. Other symptoms may include bloating, wind, urgency, abdominal pain, discomfort, nausea or reflux. To complicate matters, symptoms can flare-up unexpectedly and may change over time or from day to day. The symptoms, coupled with the uncertainty and fluctuation, can significantly impair quality of life. "A health provider who understands IBS will work with patients to address individual needs," said Nancy J. Norton, president of the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD). "That means not only reducing individual symptoms, but also arming patients with education and self-management tools that will improve their daily living." While there is no cure for IBS, it is possible to

effectively manage symptoms once a person has been diagnosed. Working closely with the Dietitians at Coffs Coast Nutrition will help you to learn as much as possible about IBS, find out what triggers your symptoms and what works best to alleviate them. A combination of various treatment and management options can significantly improve quality of life. Coffs Coast Nutrition has a great offer for IBS Awareness Month, to help get you on track. During the month of April they are offering a special discount on their individualised IBS program. This involves working with you to devise the best evidence-based treatment plan that fits your needs. If you’ve thought about trying the low FODMAP diet, or if you tried this or other dietary changes in the past, without success, then this is the program for you. Anyone trialling the low FODMAP diet should seek the support of an experienced food intolerance Dietitian, to ensure that the diet is balanced and includes plenty of gut-friendly options, and also to guide you through the various challenges as well as liberalisation of your diet. A single error with regard to this diet can make the difference between success and failure. For more information, or to make an appointment, phone 6652 7529 and leave a message, or visit www.coffscoastnutrition.com.au and click the “Make an Appointment” tab.

Col (PT - AlterG certification), Louise (Dietitian & PT), Melinda (Dietitian), Brooke (Office Manager) & Sheree (Dietitian).

Coffs Coast Nutrition. NASA Technology Enables Pain-Free Walking and Running If you suffer from arthritis, hip or knee pain, weight problems, running injuries, joint pain, stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, diabetes, etc. you can now walk/run PAIN FREE using the same technology as professional athletes and NASA. Coffs Coast residents can now access a revolutionary medical rehab treadmill, called an AlterG. This is NOT at all similar to a typical treadmill - it uses differential air pressure technology developed by NASA to enable pain-free walking or running at anywhere between 20 - 100% of a person’s body weight. Benefits · Reduce gravity’s impact · Rehabilitate lower extremity injuries with less pain and impact · Improve mobility, strength and safety for people with neurological conditions · Provide a safe way to lose weight and exercise more intensely · Train without pain aand reduce the stress on joints and muscles · Recover more quickly and with less pain after training or competition · Maximise athletic performance Cost? 30 minute sessions - from $15. Are sessions supervised? Yes. You can also attend a one-on-one orientation session and then return for unsupervised sessions, if preferred. Our exercise professional has clinical AlterG certification for orthopaedic, weight loss, neurologic, geriatric and bionic leg populations.

Living Doll is Hiring! Have you ever thought of a career in hairdressing? Wanting an employer who values you? Do you want to work in a salon that is colour and extension focused? Living Doll Premier Stylists are a passionate team who specialise in colour, balayage, style cuts and hair extensions. We pride ourselves on our quality of work and our clients know this - and that's why we need to expand our team. Living Doll Premier Stylists is not just any hairdressing salon … We are a new generation in PREMIER Stylists, with the utmost skill, passion and enthusiasm for our craft. Living Doll believes knowledge is the key, and we continue to encourage ourselves to learn more, providing all the training that is necessary to be at the top of your game - with the opportunity to travel around Australia for training and to take part of special events such as Fashion Week and Hair Expo. We are looking for someone who shares our passion, but is also open to learning new things. We have a flexible position for the right person; casual, part-time or full-time available. We believe in looking after our team, because we know how important you are! So, if you’re a hairdresser who's looking for a change and excited about what you do, please contact Lauren via email info@livingdollstylists.com.au or 0413 006 696 to arrange a confidential interview. XO Dolls

Coffs Coast focus 51

focusﬁtness

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

MyFitnessStory

.com.au

This month’s inspirational ﬁtness story comes to us courtesy of Tanja Semb Wever. Tanja is our 42 year old Registered Nurse and mother of three, who is motivating other women to lift weights and become stronger together.

hen did you start and what type of exercises did you do when you began at Coffs Coast Health Club? I moved to Australia from Norway in 2015 with my husband and kids, and three weeks later I signed up at my local. I was just attending random classes and also following a program written for me by one of the personal trainers at the gym. What motivated you to join the club? My motivation for joining the gym was first and foremost to exercise, as I am not very good at exercising outside in nature. Another motivation was the fact that they had child minding at the gym. I was home with a four year old, and she needed friends and playmates - as did I. After a few days I met two beautiful blonde bombshells from Europe through one of the personal trainers, Glenn, and they immediately invited me out for coffee. We all had children at the child minding, so naturally we were at the gym at the same time most days of the week. It didn’t take long until I could call these girls close friends. It took another year before I started lifting weights with these girls; it looked fierce! What have you learned since starting to exercise in the club? I have learned that I will never stop learning! It’s important to be consistent with your training; set yourself small short term goals, or even a big long term goal. I have been struggling with insomnia for years and in more recent years, depression. I discovered the great benefits of exercise after starting to go to the gym on a regular basis, and I no longer had to deal with these issues! I have learned

52 Coffs Coast focus

that lifting weights opposed to cardio exercise changed my body shape within months, and I have learned that to lose weight I needed to look into my diet as well. I dropped 11 kg in 20 weeks by cleaning up my diet and exercising. What tips do you have for anyone wanting to start exercising? My tip for anyone who wants to start to exercise is to just start. I could never have known that I would be in the best shape I have ever been in my entire life at the age of 42! I grew up with a mother being a dance aerobic instructor; she still is today at the age of 71! My other tip would be to get a gym partner. My gym partner, Julia, has got me through some of the toughest years of my life; the fact that you have someone there at the gym waiting for you makes you go even on the worst of days, just because you don’t want to let them down, and because it’s outright fun! Friendships of women are incredibly strong and powerful; I would never ever have competed in a bodybuilding competition on my own. What is your exercise philosophy? I guess my exercise philosophy to comes from a quote I read once: “The hardest lift of all is lifting your butt off the couch”. Man, that is so true! I’m seriously such a lazy person. I had no idea I had this dedication and willpower in me to exercise six days a week. Thanks for sharing, Tanja, and if you are looking to kickstart your own inspirational fitness story, call us directly on 1300 040 479 or drop in to see the team at either Coffs Coast Health Club Toormina or Moonee, to get started today. More Inspirational Fitness Stories can be found at www.myfitnessstory.com.au

focus_contributor

Useor it lose it

Don’t go into hibernation this winter!

With summer coming to an end and the cooler weather around the corner, it’s likely you are at risk of following a common trend and becoming more sedentary through the cooler months. A lack of physical activity is a major risk factor in many chronic disease issues, so it’s vital to keep moving to improve your health and wellbeing. We sat down with Justine Bowman, Accredited Exercise Physiologist at Mid North Coast Physiotherapy, to discuss how an exercise physiologist could be vital to make 2018 your healthiest and happiest year yet.

i Justine. Tell us a little about your background ... Growing up on the Coffs Coast, I have always been physically active, whether it be having fun down at the beach or participating in organised sport such as athletics. Physical activity is something I have always loved; I reaped the benefits of movement, and I want to be able to help others become as active and healthy as possible. Combining my love of movement with my curiosity for how the body functions led me to move to the Gold Coast to become an Exercise Physiologist. My focus now that I’ve moved back to the Coffs Coast is to use that knowledge to help you exercise safely and achieve your health goals, no matter what limitations you think there are. Who needs help from an Exercise Physiologist? Joint pain: if you have pain associated with arthritis and osteoporosis - creating an individualised exercise program will help you take the load off joints and move better. Diabetes: if you have either Type I or II Diabetes - to understand your condition and show you how exercise can help you manage your condition, control your blood glucose levels and potentially reduce your reliance on medication. Obesity: if you are overweight and don’t know where to start with exercising - get support to develop a progressive exercise plan and help you maintain motivation. Neurological conditions: brain injuries, stroke,

Parkinson’s disease - discover how exercise rehabilitation can help you regain function and improve your quality of life and independence. Falls prevention: if you are afraid of falling or have had a fall - exercise is vital to improve your strength and balance, increase your confidence and decrease your chances of falling. Back pain: if you have ongoing or recurrent back pain - you don’t have to put up with it; education and advice about how to strengthen the right muscles to support your spine and move efficiently will decrease your pain. Heart conditions: if you have had a heart event or have high blood pressure - understanding how to exercise safely and improve your heart health. A lot of us don’t know where to start what’s your advice? To get started, simply move your body in some way every day. Whether it’s going for a walk in the park, swim at the beach, riding a bike or dancing, just do something to keep active. Also, find an activity you enjoy - you’re more likely to keep it up if you’re having fun! Thanks Justine. If you would like to find out how Justine and the team can help you, Mid North Coast Physio have 10 FREE Assessment sessions available to Coffs Coast FOCUS readers to see one of their Accredited Exercise Physiologists. Call 1300 273 747 now to secure your appointment, before they are all gone - and get started on the road to a healthier, happier you.

Community Initiatives

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

his month the McDonald’s Junior Grant will assist fundraising efforts by Northcott to purchase a new bus, which will allow the organisation to increase support for those with disabilities to access the community they live in.

Wet Weather, but dream of recording more songs and playing gigs around Australia in the future. “The junior grant will help them achieve this. The boys are very driven and committed to their music journey, and have attended Rock School at Griffith University earlier this year, after being selected from all across Australia,” said Ms Peterson.

The not-for-profit organisation in the Mid North Coast region provides a Centre Based Life Skills Ten-year old athletics champion Fern Berry is Program, which allows clients to participate hoping the McDonald’s Junior Grant will help in a series of activities which promote social see her represent Coffs Harbour Little Athletics inclusion and transports them to community in five events at the Little Athletics State events. The program Championships at Sydney has twenty participants, Olympic Park Athletics including nine who use Centre in March. wheelchairs. Northcott Fern placed first in all of currently has only The McDonald’s her events in the regional one bus and can only Junior Grant Program championships held in transport three people believes that building Tamworth in February. at a time. a successful generation These results saw her being McDonald’s is a proud comes from supporting selected into the state supporter of Northcott our great locals ... competition. and regularly hosts “This is the most exciting socially inclusive events event in my year. I’ve like the famous Morning worked hard to get this far, Tea at McDonald’s Coffs Harbour. The Morning and I’d love for both my parents to be able to Tea not only provides benefits to the Northcott come and watch me compete, without worrying clients, by offering an opportunity to talk and too much about the costs,” Fern said. engage with the McDonald’s staff, but staff enjoy the opportunity to interact and go the The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes extra mile to make them feel welcome. that building a successful generation comes Fifteen-year old musician Harry Peterson, along with fourteen-year old Banjo Hayes form the band The Fingerz, who have been writing and performing music together for over a year. The boys, who are from the northern beaches of Coffs Harbour, have already released a song,

from supporting our great locals, so, if you are a local child or group who needs assistance with your sporting, academic, cultural or community project, we want to hear from you. Jump on the Grants website and apply today: www.maccasjuniorgrant.com.au Coffs Coast focus 53

Quality without the price-tag Usually I prefer to talk hair, but current economics is impacting all of us - like it or not. The world seems a very strange place these days, with Western countries no longer having much of a manufacturing base. Instead, Asia supplies much of our manufactured goods and, while we have all jumped at cheaper prices, the downside has been fewer jobs. No matter how cheap something is, if you’re not earning - what does it matter?

and Goldwell styling products provide long-

Luckily for the hairdressing industry, people are not going to China for a hairdo. However, costs need to fall to get us over this “New World Economy”. Once upon a time we were stuck with the prices imposed by suppliers: yes, you could always go cheap and use lesser brands but ultimately, quality shines.

“Hairdresser of the Year”. We made the final

In consequence, without having to change brands, I have managed to negotiate a much better deal, which I can in turn pass on to the client. Goldwell is one of the top three product manufacturers in the world and has been around for over 90 years. Goldwell Nectaya is the closest to “green” that we can get, being ammonia free and the gentlest colour I have come across. Goldwell Kerasilk shampoo and conditioners, plus Kerasilk Keratin Treatment

Hi-lights/foils $80

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lasting transformation into perfectly smooth and soft hair for up to 3 - 5 months. The secret? High-performing KeraShapeTechnology. Simply fabulous! We are also currently looking for models (a drastic cut is not necessarily required). Every year the trade magazine Hairdressers Journal runs the biggest hair competition a few years ago and are always looking for models to shoot (in a photographic sense!) Please email photos to farmer1962@southernphone.com.au Wash and cut $36 Roots re-touch $64 Wash and style $35 Long hair styling $80 Kerasilk shampoos and conditioners $28 Kerasilk Keratin Treatment $150 Extensions POA - free consultation Models and photographs thanks to HDSE models.

Coﬀs Harbour’s annual Ocean Swims are just around the corner. The event, held at Coﬀs Jetty Beach on Sunday 8th April, is for locals and visitors alike.

he different distances on enjoy coffee and baked goodies after their offer take into account all swim. Conversation always flows, even if the ages and swimming abilities topics may include rough seas, sting rays, - from those new to ocean dolphins and jelly fish encounters. To challenge swimming to those of you themselves, the Mermaids visit a different who are part fish. beach once a month. Speaking of those very much at home The group are known to mark milestones in the water, the Coffs Harbour Mermaids in style; Summer Solstice was celebrated with are just one group of locals who have been champagne at the end of the jetty while training regularly in preparation for the event. treading water and giggling, and to mark Rain, hail, wind and 2017’s Winter Solstice, shine, the Mermaids they swam around Little meet every Saturday Muttonbird Island, before to swim across the tucking into warm fudge harbour. and mulled wine in the THE MERMAIDS RANGE The Mermaids Surf Club car park. The IN ABILITY FROM first came together Mermaids are very brand THOSE ACCUSTOMED a few years ago, conscious too, with their TO FOLLOWING THE when two individuals own Facebook page and BLACK LINE IN A POOL, were training for chat group - not to mention TO EXPERIENCED an Ironman event. their customised swim suits. OCEAN SWIMMERS. Their motivation was As the name suggests, two-fold: to overcome the Mermaids are female, their fears of open but Mermen are welcome, water swimming; and admittedly by invitation to keep one another only, so long as they are company. Initially, they chose not to venture happy to provide tasty post swim treats. beyond the Jetty but as the group grew, so did In addition to the Mermaids and Mermen, their confidence, and soon they were covering other groups swim regularly in the ocean the 1,500 metres to the boat ramp and back. here, such as the Walruses and Coffs Jetty The Mermaids range in ability from those Swimmers, a group from Council who swim accustomed to following the black line in around the Jetty during their lunch breaks. a pool, to experienced ocean swimmers. All groups welcome newcomers, with the The group now includes up to 40 regular prerequisites being a swimming costume, pair members, with ages ranging from 10 years of goggles and a smile. to over 60. Anne Grundy, one of the original The 2018 Beachside Radiology Coffs Ocean Mermaids, turns 70 this year, and the group Swims cater for all ages and abilities, with the will celebrate her birthday by jumping off the 2 km Harbour Swim, 600 m Jetty Swim and jetty. the 150 m and 300 m Junior Swims. All events Although swimming is the primary will be held at the protected Coffs Jetty Beach motivator for meeting each week, the on Sunday 8th April. company and sweet treats afterwards are For more information and to enter, go also part of the appeal. The Mermaids often to www.villagesports.com.au

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

A perfect balance between simple and sustainable

April 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

You may be feeling a little uprooted or unsettled lately. A new move or the discussion of moving is likely to be on the agenda. Avoid rash decisions, wait for what feels right, and you will have no regret. New friends are coming into the picture. Herderite helps us to see our evolution, thus making it less of a challenge.

You are in desperate need of some personal time. You make everyone else a priority, but neglect your own personal needs. Set some new goals and try to remain positive. You have such a gift of manifesting; just play with it. Tiger Eye helps to maintain a sense of balance and direction.

Connect with a passion you have. Your love of life needs satisfying. Change is coming forward, and this is a natural challenge for the Libran. Start a project or play with your creative energies. You will soon offer your family members some profound healing advice, so don’t be afraid to speak. Topaz strengthens our self-esteem and brings personal power to situations surrounding us.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

An ending of a situation is bringing an exciting new influence into the picture. Your task at the moment is to understand your place in the scheme of things. Don’t compromise your standards to soothe your fears. Keep in touch with what makes your heart sing. Rose Quartz attracts us towards loving experiences.

You so desperately want a change in direction, but this is challenging your rules and boundaries in life. At present, your personal strength is being tested, which also may make it harder to pursue your desires. Ask yourself how badly do you want change? Let this motivate you. Phenacite helps us to release other people’s worries from our energies.

Remove all self-doubt. You already know what your challenges’ outcome will be. You even have your answers for getting there quicker. Find out what it is that renders you powerless, so that you can not be played with. Snowflake obsidian is wonderful for shattering negative thoughts.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

A holiday will soon settle some restlessness within. Visit a travel agent or look at some travel brochures, to awaken the adventurous you. A fresh new perspective will be gained, which will reflect positively back on your life. Expect some new friendships too. Carnelian helps us take active steps towards change.

Focus on your most important challenge at this time, in order to achieve your hardearned sucess. You are too easily distracted at present, which is causing frustration. Be a little more aware of your thoughts, and eliminate negativity, self doubt and fear. Turquoise and Rose Quartz will enhance your loving charisma.

Bring out your happy self, as you are taking life far too seriously. This has left you drained lately and feeling unenthused. You just do things, you don’t need to talk about it or plan it, so remember this when you are next tempted to procrastinate. Sugilite would be of great benefit at this time, as it helps us face our challenges with a joyful outlook.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Even though your challenges may seem overwhelming, look at the new you that you are expressing to the world. You are a very strong person, so congratulations on owning your own power. Try a little fresh goal setting; this will ease your restlessness. Tourmaline amplifies your inner peace, playful inner child energy and settles restlessness.

Your focus will be clearer after you have set some new goals or direction. Get that clever Virgo mind active and satisfy your intellect. An exciting new opportunity is out there through learning something different, so look for that perfect course or read an imformative book. Azeztulite allows us to explore alternate realities comfortably.

Mon to Fri 9am - 5pm Sat 9am - 4pm Sun 10am - 2pm

Begin something new. Soon work opportunities will keep you busy, fill your being with satisfaction and complete you. However, your enthusiasm needs to be strong when the project begins, so now is the time to feed it. Rhodonite helps us to discover new talents in the workplace.

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A special focus feature

Light House Health

Education

FOCUS sat down with Jane and Wayne from Light House Health and Education in Moonee Beach to ﬁnd out about all the amazing things they’re doing.

ell us about Lighthouse Health and Education ... Lighthouse Health and Education is a new business, located in Moonee Market, that was developed to meet the growing needs of the Coffs Coast community. As a psychologist and literacy specialist, we decided to combine our talents and experience, to provide a unique service for both children and adults. Wayne is a qualified primary and secondary teacher. He delivers a range of unique reading and writing programmes designed to establish literacy skills from the age of three years through to adults. He is the sole provider of the I Can Read System on the Mid North Coast - an effective and proven method of teaching complete literacy skills for non readers and those who want to develop and advance current abilities. Why do some children find it difficult to learn to read? There are a number of contributing factors as to why children have reading difficulties; this can include the child’s inability to distinguish individual sounds in words. Approximately 20% of children are phonologically insensitive; therefore, they can’t hear the separation of sounds in spoken words. Also, many children are learning to read English as a second language and have become confused about processing sequences of sound-letters. Our language is a complex system of conflicting rules and is therefore difficult to master. Finally, instructional practices may not take into consideration how the brain processes information from sound to sight - a critical factor in the learning to read process. Unfortunately, some children fail to read easily or confidently, because the teaching methods do not meet their needs. What makes a good reader? A good reader is someone who possesses

phonological awareness - the ability to distinguish individual sounds. This skill is essential before the introduction of the visual aspects of the alphabet. Also, a good reader develops a complex vocabulary due to the exposure to language and ideas contained in a variety of books. Why is the I Can Read system an effective way to learn to read? The I Can Read programme is not just about reading, but provides a total literacy approach to language. It offers an entire range of literacy skills, including speaking skills, grammar, comprehension, spelling, creative writing and of course, reading. The series of unique reading programmes begins at the pre literacy stage, where children are encouraged to develop their oral communication skills through a variety of child-centered activities that stimulate the child’s perception of the world and develop language. As the child’s use of phonics and their ability to accurately decode unfamiliar words develops, these skills are then applied to a multi-sensory approach to reading and total literacy. The I Can Read programme is not just for those learning to read or with reading difficulties, but also for all children and adults wishing to improve their range of reading skills. Sounds great! How do parents enrol their child in a class? The programme begins with an obligation free reading assessment designed to identify strengths and weaknesses in the reading process. This enables us to place the student into the appropriate programme, in order to achieve the best results. They just have to give us a call or email us to book an appointment time. Ph: 6656 4765, email us at admin@lighthousehealthandeducation.com.au or visit us on Facebook.

Total Literacy Psychological Services Jane, what’s your background? I am a Registered Psychologist with a Masters in Child and Adolescent Welfare and have long term experience working with children in schools and child protection settings. At Lighthouse Health and Education I provide complete psychological assessment and intervention services, such as: IQ and specific learning disorder assessments, Autism Spectrum Disorder and behaviour assessments, and individual therapeutic intervention. That’s fantastic. Can you tell us a bit more about your specialities? I have a passion for working with children, teens and their families, with a particular interest in working with those living with mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Helping people to work through their emotions, face their fears and overcome their individual challenges

to see the value in their lives is very rewarding. I also love working with clients on the Autism Spectrum; they often have such an alternative perspective on life, that I learn something new every session. Helping clients to engage with their school and community or to embrace their skills and talents is another bonus of my work. Do I need a referral to see a psychologist? You don’t need a referral to see a psychologist; however, if you are supported by your GP you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, which can significantly reduce out-ofpocket expenses. We also offer private health fund claims. Is Lighthouse Health and Education NDIS approved? We are approved NDIS Providers (NDIS ID: 4050028165) for Early Intervention and Therapeutic Supports.

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What

women want with Tegan Swan

We want it all, right? Is it unrealistic to think it’s possible? While “success” and happiness look different for everyone, I’m sure we can agree that some things are pretty up there for most of us, though. Work-life balance, fulfillment, genuine relationships, a great career on our terms, time for our families and ourselves … Am I right?

Enrolling Now 2019 Kindy to Year 12 LIMITED places available in some year groups

To ﬁnd out more about a BDC education, register for a tour or receive an information pack please email enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au or phone 02 6651 5644

Bishop Druitt College | 111 North Boambee Rd. Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 02 6651 5644 | enrolments@bdc.nsw.edu.au | www.bdc.nsw.edu.au

9 1 0 2 r o f s p i h s r a l o h N c E S P O NOW Performing Arts - STEM - All Rounder ATSI - Sporting Performance - Visual Arts

For scholarship information go to www.bdc.nsw.edu.au/scholarships

58 Coffs Coast focus

hile it may have been laughable to think you could achieve all of those things in sync in years gone by welcome to 2018, ladies, where, if you want it, that’s really possible. There's proof and inspiration all around us, as smart and savvy women who want to create a successful career but also don’t want to miss out on time with their kids - or heck, even time for themselves - are moving away from the traditional J.O.B and the 9 to 5 and making their own way. There is a myriad of opportunities and options available for those willing to look into what’s out there. From negotiating a flexible working arrangement in your existing role, to CEO boss ladies who are running their organisations on their terms with the hours and structures that suit them ... in all industries, in large companies and small to medium businesses. Women are finding options that allow them to keep the corporate salary but work from home (or a café), how to freelance their skills, grow online businesses and how to monetise and live their passions. Many incredible women are taking the leap and looking into alternate income opportunities or getting courageous and negotiating their existing work on their terms. It's so exciting! This really is something to be celebrated, as women see their value and their worth in the working landscape and shape it to be the best for them - and everyone wins. It's with this focus on flexibility, the new normal, multiple streams of income, smart women looking into smart opportunities, that has sparked an occasion for women to come together and learn from one another. A com-

bined initiative of both the Woolgoolga and Northern Beaches Chamber of Commerce and Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce, along with Zonta Club of Coffs Harbour, BPW Coffs Harbour and Coffs BWN has resulted in the development of the “Women’s Work Forums”. This series of events offers all women on the Coffs Coast the opportunity to come together and hear from successful women who have created a career and lifestyle they are proud of. These amazing, generous, leading women will share their stories and their advice for others looking to make a change in their own career, or who are looking for a new adventure. As a passionate advocate for women in leadership roles, I am so excited to be facilitating these forums. The response so far has been overwhelming and the number of women who have come forward offering to share their successes and support and attend the series has cemented how integral it is to women's career satisfaction moving forward. If we want to see more women in leadership, then we should definitely be showing each other the ropes on how to do it on our terms - and that's exactly what this forum is going to deliver. If you’d like to attend the forums, which will begin in May at The Shell @ Nautilus, you can grab your tickets via Eventbrite or the local chambers of commerce and other associated networking groups. Head to Women’s Work Forums on Facebook for all the details. Tickets are $30 for members of any of the associated partner organisations, or $40 for any other attendees. Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.

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Ohana Early Learning Centre Ohana Early Learning Centre have just completed two brand new, purpose built centres in South Grafton and Emerald Beach. The playgrounds have been designed by an awardwinning architect with a focus on natural landscapes.

hey have replicated and improved on the design that kids and parents both love. FOCUS had a chat to Owner/Director Stuart Malouf to find out more ... Congratulations on your recent growth. Briefly tell us about your newly built centres ... We have opened two new centres servicing the northern beaches from Emerald Beach and Grafton. The northern beaches held a strong interest for us, given the growth of new homeowners along the coast. We partnered with the Cougle family, who built us a centre in their land development at Emerald Beach - a centre we are excited to have opened, as we have combined our experience in the design approach that we have taken from our other centres. We are extremely proud of this new centre, with age specific classrooms, architectural designed natural playscape, grass, climbing poles, tepees and a range of areas and resources to keep the children engaged across all ages. We also have a specially designed area for our babies, so that they can enjoy the outdoor environment at their own pace, uninterrupted. What age groups do you cater for? We cater for all children from six weeks to preschool age in age appropriate classroom environments. What makes Ohana different to other centres? Our wonderful caring staff are a key component of the success of each of the centres, along with the engaging spaces and natural environments for the children. Our educators support each child’s learning and development

through positive interactions and individual daily experiences. Tell us about the child care rebate. How is it tested? New government subsidies are being introduced in July. The big change is the CCB and CCR are being combined. All families will be means tested; the government is forecasting for this region that as much as 85% of the childcare fee will be government supported, which is great for working families and their children being able to access quality long term childcare. The downside for families is that every family will need to attend a Centrelink office to prove their identity and income before June in preparation for the new system. How important is a child's diet, and what do you do to encourage healthy eating? With most families experiencing a busy lifestyle, the government has set guidelines on nutrition and access to quality food and drink. All our meals are supplied by an in-house chef, who is a working mother that understands the importance of supplying well-balanced and nutritious meals. Our chef is even preparing natural foods for our babies that are not yet on solid food. Many of our centres have incorporated the educational experience in preparing and cooking their own afternoon teas. This is a wonderful experience for the children, who love eating their own handmade muffins and cakes. How do our readers find out more? Come and have a look at any of our wonderful centres based at North Boambee, Coffs CBD, Emerald Beach and Grafton and experience the nature-based playgrounds and our wonderful educators. We can be reached at any of our centres on 6656 4664 or via our website: www.ohanaelc.com.au

A special focus feature

wim Care started 15 years ago with a passion to see kids learn to swim better. We have small classes, and a very progressive program designed firstly to see them safe in the water, and then focusing on learning strokes. For us, swimming lessons is not a sport; but a very necessary skill given where we live. Young children are naturally curious and don’t have a mature sense of what is safe and what is not. Their learning is so rapid; they want to explore everything. What better time to learn survival and swimming than in these young years; consequently, it is also the age where we lose more children through accidental death via drowning than any other cause ... and near drowning is tragic, often leaving permanent damage. We want to see two - five year olds confident and capable in the water. Swim Care is fully enclosed, the water heated to 32 degrees. Winter is not a problem, as we also have heated change areas. All of our teachers are Austswim qualified, and everyone working here has a valid working with children check. It is a very safe environment; we are solely learn to swim and do not have public swimming. At Swim Care we start teaching babies from three months. We see it as a bonding experience between baby and carer, set up the parent and child to gain confidence in the

water, set in place brain pathways for the road to swimming survival. Our baby program is very advanced. If people can’t start their children as babies, the age of two - three is a great time to start to commit to getting your child swimming. Swimming in the winter is not a problem; and in fact gives the children double the learning time. If people turn up to every swimming lesson during the summer, they will end up with 10 hours a year on swimming. Swimming during the winter as well doubles this time. It gives the winter swimmers an advantage, where they start the summer season without missing a beat. We find having breaks really can take some kids back, and it becomes a slow process. During the winter, people can be concerned that their kids may miss too many lessons if sick, but we offer makeups which do not expire, so everyone can ensure they won’t miss out on lessons. Swim Care is a warm environment, drying their kids well after lessons, and popping a beanie on their heads makes sure they are quite comfortable. We can organise payment plans to make it easier for parents to give swimming lessons to their kids. It’s also a great gift from other family members such as grandparents. During the winter terms, April 30 to Sept 29, you will be able to take part of our special winter offer of enrolling Term 2 and 3.

Coffs Coast focus 59

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Jetty Dental

any first time parents will be reading this month’s issue. What is a good age to start bringing children to the dentist? At Jetty Dental we believe dental visits should start around the age of two. At this age, most children will let the dentist have a look inside their mouths, if only for a brief time. As a parent, it is often best to coincide your dental checkups with your childs, so that your child can watch you and recognise that dental surgeries are not scary places. Initial visits for young children may simply involve games and rides in the dental chair. Hopefully your child will feel a little more comfortable with each subsequent visit and realise that regular dental checks are an important part of growing up. What advice can you give to parents in regards to developing strong healthy teeth in children? Unfortunately, the modern diet is littered with processed sugars, so it is important that children eat a healthy, balanced diet, including plenty of fruits, vegetables and grains. Try to limit their consumption of sugary foods and drinks such as

60 Coffs Coast focus

lollies, soft drinks, and even savoury biscuits and snack bars. It is also important to reinforce the habit of brushing twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste. How can you check your children’s teeth at home? Unfortunately, the modern diet is Dental decay can develop littered with processed sugars, so number of teenagers very quickly, so we would it is important that and young adults encourage all parents to children eat a healthy, that start their day off regularly look inside their balanced diet, including plenty with an energy drink young children’s mouths and of fruits, vegetables and grains. or sports drink. These become familiar with their well known companies teeth. You can easily check are very clever with the state of your child’s teeth the way they market by lifting their top and bottom lips and checking these drinks, and consequently many people for food and plaque deposits. If parents find think that it is appropriate to consume these anything that looks abnormal, such as brown drinks during and after exercise or sport. Sports or yellow discolourations, or black spots on drinks and energy drinks contain high levels of their childs teeth, then this may indicate early sugar and are extremely acidic, so teenagers and decay. We would encourage them to book young adults who consume these sports drinks an appointment with their dentist as soon as and gels during training or exercise are at risk possible. of developing high levels of dental decay and Sports and energy drinks are often part of a erosion. We mostly breathe through our mouth teenager’s diet, so what are your thoughts when we participate in hard exercise and as a on this? result, the mouth gets dry and we produce less It is very concerning to see the ever increasing

saliva. Teeth are very vulnerable during periods of dehydration, so we would recommend drinking water only during periods of exercise. Many parents delay or put off dental treatment, due to fear of excessive costs. Are their any government schemes that can assist families in this area? No one would argue that large amounts of complex dental treatment can be expensive; however, basic regular preventative dentistry including six monthly checkups is an inexpensive way to avoid complex dental treatment. Fortunately, in Australia a large number of eligible children have access to the Child Dental Benefits Schedule, which is a Government funded dental scheme providing a benefit cap of $1,000 over a two calendar year period. Parents can assess their child’s eligibility by contacting Jetty Dental on 6651 7373.

STEPS to SUCCESS

Up-close Animal Encounters. Billabong Zoo Koala and Wildlife Park cares for over 80 species, with over 200 animals located throughout ten acres of shady gardens. Experience an up-close Animal Encounter with personal Zoo Keeper commentary: available with Snow Leopards, Cheetahs, Red Pandas, Meerkats, Koalas and Snakes. Bookings essential. An Animal Encounter is a very special experience that stays with you for a lifetime. You can also enjoy 14 free Zoo Keeper talks throughout the day. There is a children’s playground and an all-day Kangaroo and Wallaroo walk-through meadow for patting and feeding; Zoo Café for meals, snacks, ice-cream, coffee and drinks; souvenirs, gifts and retail therapy in the popular Zoo Shop. The multi award-winning Billabong Zoo is always fun for the kids and educational for everyone. Open every day: 9am 5pm, rain or shine. Billabong Zoo, Port Macquarie - it’s more than a great day out. It’s the best value zoo in Australia. Located at 61 Billabong Drive, just off the Oxley Highway (two minutes from the Pacific Highway). For full details visit www.billabongzoo.com.au or call 6585 1060.

Set in 10 acres of lush gardens with over 80 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. Rain or shine, Billabong Zoo is a great day out where you can get up-close to Australian & exotic animals.

Every parent has the same dream for their child - we just want them to be happy and to achieve their dreams. But we all know that behind every successful dream lies a great deal of hard work and dedication to improving one’s skills and knowledge. “It doesn’t matter whether a student is struggling or easily meeting their learning goals; each one of them can really benefit from having a tutor,” says Liz Stevens of The Education Centre. Tuition works in many ways: tutors can help explain complex ideas, they can demonstrate effective ways of researching and extending learning, they can answer the questions a student might be too shy to ask in class and, most importantly, they can help students develop personal confidence and enthusiasm for learning. “This is one of the aspects of tuition that warms my heart,” says Liz, “seeing a formerly shy or quiet student become self-assured and animated about their studies in only a few short weeks.” The bottom line is that parents are really giving their children the very best chance to be successful - not only in school, but also in the worlds of tertiary study and work. All the Centre’s qualified and experienced teachers and tutors thrive on offering that one-to-one or small group connection with their students. So, help your child take their first steps to success and contact Rosie at The Education Centre today on (02) 6652 2222. Tuition available in Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Grafton. Drama, Art and Language Classes available at Coffs Harbour only.

ZOO TALK FREE presentations throughout the day. UP-CLOSE Book a personal animal encounter. ZOO CAFEÉ ZOO SHOP

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A special focus feature

3 bears Connections, Relationships and Opportunities W I T H

B D C

P R I N C I P A L

N I C K

J O H N S T O N E

In my last FOCUS article I detailed the need for schools to become (or return to, in some cases) community hubs for neighbourhood engagement. This article follows on from this message and dials into three key areas to achieve this goal.

onnections Schools have natural connections within a community. There are the obvious ones like the students, their parents and grandparents, as well as staff and their families, but there are also more links outside this. In a school of 1,000 students, these links translate to about 3,500 people. The next level includes guest speakers, local churches, youth groups, sporting clubs and coaches, music ensembles and their tutors, school suppliers, contractors, regional education and health departments and agencies. These groups are all part of a dynamic school and as you can well imagine, the connections from a school can grow into the thousands of people quite quickly. Relationships Relationships are more than connections. They have depth and meaning. They have real value. This is the level schools need to achieve. It is from respectful and trusted relationships that school growth and innovation can occur. I challenge our schools to go beyond our superficial connections and make the effort to build relationships to enrich our communities for all. Everyone has their own story about schooling and just about everyone has a story of a teacher or a coach that made a difference for them. I was lucky; I had several. Mr Zielke was my Year 6 teacher, who taught me independence and to appreciate the wonders of the natural world. Mr Anderson (Year 7) instilled a love of reading and inquiry. Mr Rimmer expressed a love of history and world 62 Coffs Coast focus

travel. Mr Williams, a real estate agent and parent coach, was an excellent team man and instilled a love of team sports such as cricket and rugby. He taught me discipline and the value of hard work to improve performance. These people went beyond the connection and made a difference in their communities. They all volunteered beyond their hours of duty to value add to their communities and to build long term relationships. Opportunities For me, schools are all about opportunity. However, teachers alone can’t provide all the answers for our students. Opportunities need to be derived through our relationships and our connections with the broader community. Synergistic relationships will support our students and also provide opportunities for the community. Student voice is not to be overlooked during this process. Students generate many excellent ideas through their unique perspectives on old problems or situations. My closing statement for this article is really a call to action. Do you have an excellent idea that can support your local school? Do you have skills that could value add to their education? Do you see the value in making your school the local hub for your community? If so, contact your local school to discuss your idea further. As Stephen Covey of “The 7 Habits” fame stated, synergy is all about “making one plus one equal three”. Nick Johnstone, Principal BDC.

3Bears

hy play is so important in Education and learning ... Standardised testing for younger children starts early now and doesn’t let up for like a decade or two of their lives. When you consider that our little ones are still struggling to remember to flush the toilet and use soap when washing their hands, it’s a lot to ask of them. To understand why play-based learning plays such a vital role in a child’s development, one must recognise how a child’s brain develops. Did you know that the right side of the brain develops first? This happens around the age of three - four years, while the left side is more like seven years; hence why the early years are seen to be the most crucial period for a child’s development. The left side of the brain plays a logical, analytical role, while the right side, on the other hand, dabbles in curiosity, imagination and creativity. At 3 Bears Cottage, we understand this and appreciate why play, therefore, is so important in the years before school. In our service we take the time to provide a well-balanced play-based program. The joy of doing, investigating and discovery around the things that engage the children’s own unique selves is crucial. So, what play resources provoke curiosity, imagination and creativity? When looking at play, it’s important to ask this question: who is doing the thinking - the children or the toy? The best materials focus on what the children can create, not what the materials can do. Loose parts, also referred to as “open ended materials”, are resources that have no specific set of directions or rules; they can be taken apart

and put back together in a number of ways and combined with other resources, they have endless possibilities. Loose parts ask the child to be curious, creative and imaginative. 3 Bears educators’ role is to support and facilitate the learning of our children, by providing many loose parts, so our incredible little learners can take charge of their own play, letting activities flow from one to another. This role allows our educators to also be taken on a journey of discovery, as they share in the adventure of where the children’s individual learning will take everyone. As parents, you play a very important role in your child’s education, and life can definitely be very busy at times; however, choosing the right early childhood service can make the world of difference in their early years. After entering the Early Childhood Education Week Awards and winning the “Best Program Highlighting Inclusivity Practises” in 2017, ran by Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA), we have been extremely motived to continually reflect and improve upon our practises. Participating in the awards saw many positive results achieved for our service and as a result, the enthusiasm of our team has continued into 2018, which has seen 3 Bears already achieve two more awards from ACA in recognition of our programs for the month of January and February. How do I enrol? 3 Bears is open to all children aged six weeks to six years, and we recommend scheduling an orientation with us prior to enrolling to see if our program is right for you and your children. Contact us on (02) 6652 5656, or email us on 3bearscottage@live.com.au

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Klaustel. Your “LOCAL” NBN Internet and Phone Line Provider.

21 000 COPIES DELIVERED

When you advertise with Focus you’re not just advertising once, but in 21,000 FREE copies. Our huge circulation is the single biggest reason that Focus continues to achieve the results that our clients demand.

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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Did you know here at Klaustel we personally organise your NBN, telephone and internet services, as well as phone systems small or large? At Klaustel, we are your one stop shop. We give expert advice, offer an efficient personalised and prompt service with ongoing local support and remember: at Klaustel the people who sell you the equipment are the same people who install and maintain it. Locals looking after locals. Supplying excellent quality at great prices, our Hybrex or MYPBX IP phone systems means there is no need to get stuck in expensive long term payment plans. Our prices are very affordable; however, we do offer interest free payment plans if you prefer. As a service provider under Klaustel’s brand with our competitive rates, we are now rivalling the larger telcos with our NBN and phone line pricing, with the flexibility to style a plan to suit your business. “Our aim as a local service provider is to provide uncomplicated, easy to use, easy to understand products and services with exceptional customer service”. Call us today for a no obligation bill assessment, to see how you can save with Klaustel.

Single Touch Payroll. From 1 July 2018, if you have 20 or more employees, you'll need to use Single Touch Payroll-enabled software to report your tax and super information to the tax office To find out if you need to report through Single Touch Payroll, you'll need to do a headcount of the number of employees you have on 1 April 2018. What’s Changing? You may not need to provide payment summaries to your employees at the end of financial year when you report through Single Touch Payroll. Your employees will be able to see their year-to-date tax and super information through myGov. In the future, Single Touch Payroll information will be used to prefill your activity statement. Whether you are employed or self employed, there is always room for improvement, and even minor 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 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.

focus_travel W I T H K E R R Y M O S S F R O M Q U A D R A N T T R A V E L

Paddock to Plate.

Tips for Travellers

Is cruising for you? We asked our travel writer, Kerry Moss, why cruising is so popular now. Here are a few of the compelling reasons why you could consider cruising for your next holiday. Cruising offers great value Cruises offer great value, particularly because the upfront cost has so many inclusions. Most cruises include food, accommodation, daytime and evening entertainment and transportation between destinations. Some even include drinks and day excursions. Sure, there are some things you have to pay for, but most of these are optional. Unpack your bag once; wake up in a different place every day On a cruise, you unpack your bag once, but wake up somewhere new every morning. Your floating hotel takes you somewhere different every day. It might be an exotic city or a tropical island, but every morning you’ll discover a new place without having to lug your suitcase along sandy beaches or cobblestone streets. Cruise ships are family friendly If you are struggling to find a holiday that suits everyone, then a cruise might be for you. Cruises are fun for all ages, with activities for everyone from your five year old niece to your 85 year old grandmother. They are an excellent way to bring family groups together in one place and keep everyone happy. Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes What one person may love, another may not. The ideal cruise ship for you could be one of the mighty ships, complete with state of the art activities and facilities; whilst your neighbour might prefer an intimate ship with a warm ambience and silent glances. Fortunately, there are a large range of options available, including large ships, small ships, ocean cruising and river cruising. So many activities, so little time Cruise ships are designed to keep everyone happy. Whether it’s a pamper day at the spa or having a flutter at the casino, lounging by the pool or educating yourself at a wine appreciation class, there is never a dull moment on board a cruise ship. If however, you’re after a relaxing holiday where the kids are entertained while you lay by the pool sipping cocktails, then there’s a cruise itinerary

for you too. If that’s not enough choice, then fill your days with the myriad of choices for shore excursions. Visit local villages, stroll through museums or take walking tours through the historical streets, then head back to your luxury floating accommodation for the night. Ships are floating cities If you think you’re going to be left without all the creature comforts, then you’ll be mistaken. Cruise ships have everything you could possibly want on board. If you really want to stay in touch with the mainland, there is Wi-fi, internet and live news channels. On board there are shops, doctors, laundries, gyms, movie theatres, swimming pools and a large choice of dining options. You’ll run out of time before you run out of facilities.

Local travel company Quadrant Australia are offering FOCUS readers the unique opportunity to join their Paddock to Plate UK and Ireland tour, departing in July. The tour will be hosted by Australia’s best known rural photographer and book publisher, Fiona Lake. Fiona is a licensed drone pilot and experienced traveller. She has been featured on ABC Landline, and Channel Nine and has recently been honoured with an exhibition of her work at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC. The tour is a rare chance to follow her and get behind the scenes visiting farms, with the opportunity to sit down and share meals together, sharing your stories with the locals and hearing their experiences of farming in the UK. Travellers will get the opportunity to check out farmers’ markets, paddock-to-plate restaurants, and supermarket shelves for ideas and taste testing. Of course, the tour will also include a number of not-to-bemissed sightseeing hot spots, such as the historic and royal sights of London and the scenic coasts of Ireland. One of the real highlights of the tour is

the chance to attend The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, where performers from over 80 countries come together for Scotland’s premier event, held in the foregrounds of the majestic Edinburgh Castle. While you are travelling in Scotland, the tour will also attend the Scottish Highland Games, a great experience, with traditional events such as a caber toss, tug-o-war, Highland Dance and Scottish piping competitions. As you travel through the cobbled stone streets of quaint English towns, and the heart of the picturesque Cotswolds, you will get a true appreciation of the beauty of the English countryside. Quadrant Australia have been operating worldwide special interest tours for more than 30 years. In 2017, they took travellers to more than 40 countries across the globe. Their local office is located in Vernon St, Coffs Harbour and has a team of experienced and friendly staff. Drop in to see the team or visit their website for more information: www.quadrantaustralia.com

Let’s get social If you’re a single traveller and want to meet people from around the world, then cruising provides ample opportunity to make new friends. Or, if you’ve been assigned the task of organising the family holiday for 20 of your nearest and dearest, then one visit to your travel agent and it’s all sorted: transport, accommodation, meals and activities. Once on board, you’ll meet people at your dinner table, during the activities or by the pool and if you wish to stay anonymous, then the ships are large enough to avoid running into the same people time and time again. Pick a destination - there are hundreds You won’t be short of choices when you ask, “Where can I go on a cruise?” You can cruise through tropical waters, rivers lined with historical cities or through the jungles of the most remote forests. You can even to special events such as the Melbourne Cup or the Australian Open or jump on board the “cruise to nowhere”, where your holiday is all about what’s on board, as you float in the middle of the ocean, far from land. If you’d like to know more about the diverse range of destinations and cruise styles, drop in to see the team at Quadrant Australia in Coffs Harbour. They offer a range of travel solutions and have a friendly and experienced team. Coffs Coast focus 65

focuskitchens.

Marcus Phillips - Designer Living Kitchens

PANDORA & MARCUS

DESIGNER LIVING KITCHENS PA N D O R A & P E T E R CO L L E D G E

My brief with Marcus was ... “There are no limitations here. I don’t want to give you an idea on design, as that is why you are here, but I have certain needs and wants for my new kitchen. I am an earthy and healthy person who lives by the beach, and I need this space to fit my criteria and my house - and that is it.”

am a passionate health foodie and Natural Nutritionist, so my kitchen is my go to happy place, where I create, relax, entertain and enjoy family dinners. My goal for 2016 is to start healthy and raw food cooking classes from my kitchen to small intimate groups and share my knowledge of healthy lifestyle and eating real food, so I was driven by this and the fact my kitchen was 18 years old and required updating. I also required my kitchen to not represent a commercial kitchen, but to still be the inviting and entertaining hub of my home. My brief with Marcus was ...“There are no limitations here. I don’t want to give you an idea on design, as that is why you are here, but I have certain needs and wants for my new kitchen. I am an earthy and healthy person who lives by the beach, and I need this space to fit my criteria and my house - and that is it.” Marcus really paid attention to the colour themes in our home, our sense of family and how much we like to socialise, my goal of sharing healthy cooking workshops in my own environment and our modern beach house. I knew straight away Marcus was on the same

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page with me, and I was very excited to see what he would come up with. We met with Marcus at the showroom, and he presented his design using three dimensional technology complete with colour, so that we could almost pull out a stool and sit in it. From that moment my first reaction was, WOW WOW WOW! I LOVE it. I could almost touch it and feel it. I did not need to overthink or correct anything in that design, as it was completely perfect. The price was a nice surprise, which allowed me to get some really top quality appliances. Marcus suggested finishes and helped guide us through any other finishes that we wanted. It was a very easy, enjoyable and extremely rewarding process. Abby kept us up to speed with the progress of installation every week, and it arrived and was installed exactly on target. They did not miss a beat. The finished product was above and beyond my expectations and is my dream kitchen. My friends and family have all been very impressed with our kitchen, and the cooking has certainly reflected the tone - and dare I say gone up to five stars!

focus feature

EAST COAST Cabinets The tradesmen of East Coast Cabinets are an integral part of the success of the business, ably assisted by designer and estimator Peter and manager Deb. Stephen (Smokey) joined the company in 1985 as an out of trade apprentice and quickly became an expert in post forming laminate, when the process was introduced to the North Coast in 1986. After a serious accident, Tony was sent to us for rehabilitation and work place assessment. His motivation to return to work resulted in him coming on board in 1996. Wayne came to us in 1992 and after four and a half years as foreman, took 18 monthsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; leave to travel around Australia. He returned just over 18 years later! His skill in training apprentices and attention to detail make him great to have back in the fold. Our current installers, Brad and Chris, love being on site and ensuring that everything is spot on and the customers are happy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Professionalâ&#x20AC;? is the operative word. All of our employees have improved their skills during their years of service and take great pride in their achievements. Everyone has an important role to play and our tradesmen take theirs seriously, resulting in rewards for everyone associated with us.

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F O C U S

F E A T U R E

focusinterview.

Do you offer solutions for budgets of The location of our showroom facilitates our different sizes? Yes, we do. Whether your kitchen Coffs Harbour customers and builders easy access budget is $5,000 or $50,000, we always do our to visit us in person, discuss some ideas, book best to achieve the best outcome to match your appointments and see what services, overall expectations. There are different hardware and products, hardware and custom cabinetry we have upgrades that can be assessed according to your to offer. budget. Nevertheless, we always supply high What makes CDK different from other quality products that ensure good longevity and companies in the local area? CDK is a proud performance. family owned business What services and products that seeks to provide a do you offer to trades customised service to people on the Coffs Coast, each client. At CDK we It is always good idea to bring and how will this new are constantly researching inspirational images of the look you showroom help to improve and updating our want to achieve. Also, ask a lot these? Having a showroom products and designs, to D E S I G N E R K I T C H E N S of questions if you’re unsure in Coffs Harbour, where be able to offer you top about finishes and types of the majority of builders are quality at an affordable materials. Think about the work located, will be a beneficial price. This enables us to areas, storage areas, etc. … point in itself, as they can tailor requirements to an you tell us a little bit business running solid for 10 years, employing see first-hand what we each individual client’s about your background and 17 experienced and professional staff and as well specific needs but more are about - and it will also experience in this industry? as that, I’m expanding to a second showroom in facilitate the relationship importantly, their specific Looking back, I can see it all Coffs Harbour. We’re welcoming a new member, budget, without having to compromise on quality. between their client and CDK. Our showroom will started when I was about 13 with 20 years of kitchen design experience. show the options available in terms of cabinetry, With CDK, you’ll always get the integrity you’re years old, with the interest I Since inception, what are some of the hardware, splashbacks, materials, appliances and looking for. had for woodworking. At 15 years of age, things you have changed and improved? benchtops. We can also provide trades (plumbers What is the best advice you can give to a I was committed to work and started on an We are always looking to improve our business and electricians) as part of the service if need be. prospective customer? It is always a good idea apprenticeship. As years passed, I worked for a performance, logistics and services. We work with to bring inspirational images of the look you want What are your plans for the future of Coastal bigger company, where I moved up the ranks the latest cabinetry program, provide advanced Designer Kitchens? To continue to improve our to achieve. Also, ask a lot of questions if you’re quickly and eventually became a Master Carpenter. manufacturing techniques with our in-house CNC unsure about finishes and types of materials. Think business and services in order to provide the best At 25, I started my own business from my garage machinery and offer friendly trades and customer about the work areas, storage areas, etc. … We outcome possible, whether our clients are in the and from there, a couple years later I moved into service. building industry or in the private sector. We seek have a free downloadable guide on our Facebook a bigger premises. Within a couple years from With the opening of your new showroom, to maintain a strong presence in this industry as we page to help you plan your kitchen; it’s called “The there, I had a three or four people working for how will this help to improve the way people Ultimate Guide To Plan Your Kitchen”. You can find have thus far, and we hope to do so in the years me. I now hold 20 years of experience, with a can learn about your services and products? to come. it on the left hand side menu.

COASTAL

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F O C U S

F E A T U R E

Smartest home on the block... Technology in the home is moving at a rapid pace, and here at Coffs Coast Audio we are at the forefront of that technology and how best to use it in your home. While there are many smart products available today, it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until these devices work together in orchestration that you experience the magic of a smart home - different products all working in harmony. Coffs Coast Audio deliver smart home systems that coordinate the technology in your home into a complete, cohesive experience - interactions that fit your lifestyle and are easy for your family to enjoy. With one touch, dim the lights, stream your favourite music, turn up the heat, lock the doors and arm your security system. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a smarter living experience that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll wonder how you ever lived without. We are more connected than ever before, at work, at home, even in the car. Eventually everything with power will become network aware; unfortunately, most home networks are not ready for the demand. When building a smart home today, you need to be prepared for

tomorrow. All of these connected smart devices require a solid, secure, robust and dependable network. This is not something that is desired when building or renovating; it is now required. A mixture of wired and wireless access points that provide a single house wide network is standard in all of our smart home projects. Coffs Coast Audio are always working with local builders, architects and interior designers to ensure that our clients get the best possible outcome. Call into the showroom and let Jarrod and Gavin demonstrate how you too can have the smartest home on the block ...

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STAIRMASTER Stairmaster NSW specialise in creating bespoke staircases for new builds

and renovations, internal or external, using a vast range of modern or traditional products, including turned timber, glass and aluminium and stainless steel. FOCUS had a chat to Nic Derrin about some of the projects he has been working on and his business plans for the future.

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focus_ Abode.

hat is your connection to What is the history behind Stairmaster? the Coffs Coast? Stairmaster's a family owned, Brisbane based I moved here over 15 years company, who've been servicing most of the ago to find the right line of major Queensland builders for the last 20 odd work after leaving school. I chose the Coffs years. We also have a large presence in the Coast after spending almost every Christmas Melbourne market and for the last two years, holiday, since birth, at Sandy Beach with family. the Coffs Coast. Locally, Stairmaster came to my After living in Woolgoogla for some time, we rescue two years ago, after my own business have recently relocated was struggling with our family of five to our excessive workload and own patch of paradise the inability to find skilled on the outskirts of Nana employees. Glen. We love it here What services do LOCALLY, STAIRMASTER and don't plan on going Stairmaster offer? CAME TO MY RESCUE anywhere, anytime soon! Well, everything stair TWO YEARS AGO, AFTER When did you decide related and more ... Stair MY OWN BUSINESS WAS you wanted to become wise, there isn't much STRUGGLING WITH a joiner, and what we can't achieve; both EXCESSIVE WORKLOAD steps did you take to internally and externally, AND THE INABILITY TO become one? we have it covered FIND SKILLED EMPLOYEES. Well, you could say even powder-coated I've been a woodworker or galvanised stringers. since I was five years old, Balustrades, again, following the passion there really isn't much through school and then we can't do. From the leaving school to pursue furniture making. After more traditional turned timber, to glass and failed attempts to find a job, speaking to a few aluminium, and even stainless steel. We offer mentors and not wanting to move to the city, full installation of all our products, except for I found joinery to be the next best thing. Not our steel piers, but we are more than happy to long after I started my apprenticeship at a local supply only to the DIY market or the like. joinery, and from there I was hooked.

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focus_ Abode.

Do you offer non stair related products or services? Definitely. We can supply and install aluminium privacy screens and window awnings; these are manufactured in house and can be powder coated to suit any Colorbond colour. We use a click together system for both our slat and oval louvres, which gives a clean, weld free, modern look. These are perfect for the DIY customer, as they're so simple to install; all you really need is a drill. We're also the local distributor for Levelmaster products. This means we can fast track steel adjustable piers orders, including cut to length posts, to a two day delivery. Plus,

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WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE ALSO THE LOCAL

we keep their full range see where this will lead in DISTRIBUTOR FOR of standard hot dipped the near future. LEVELMASTER PRODUCTS. galvanised stringers in Tell us about some of THIS MEANS WE CAN FAST stock (up to 17 treads), your recent projects, TRACK STEEL ADJUSTABLE right here at our factory and what you loved PIERS ORDERS, INCLUDING at highly competitive most about them. CUT TO LENGTH POSTS, prices. As you can Well, everyone knows TO A TWO DAY DELIVERY. probably tell from the I love a challenge, and pictures above, we have the curved stair and also recently dabbled in balustrade for Bravo manufacturing timber Job was exactly that. bench tops for kitchens and bathroom vanities. I've only made a handful of stairs like this in With simple joinery techniques, our fully set my time, and the learning curve (excuse the up workshop and the wide range of timber pun) was immense, but the Stairmaster team species already available to us, I'm excited to pulled together and produced a masterpiece

that'll service its needs for a lifetime. I should also mention my favourite from last year, which would have to be a Toscan built home for Sapphire Living Interiors. Amy and partner James from Sapphire Living were an absolute pleasure to work with, and their timber mono stair with glass balustrade turned out beautifully, and on point. What are the stand out features or the benefits of the business? One of the most unique features of our stair company is our metal and glass fabrication team. Having this section of Stairmaster gives us the ability to design your staircase and void balustrade without limitations. Take, for

focus_ Abode.

example, the pictured timber mono stringer stair with glass balustrade. We were able to run a single piece of glass, on stainless steel standoffs between the two flights of stairs, instead of the more common two glass panels running side by side on each flight. This not only creates a wider staircase, but also reduces the amount, and therefore the cost of the glass. This could also be achieved using our powder coated steel mono string if required, perfectly suiting the ever popular, industrial style. I think most would agree this simplifies the building process with less trades on site, and less for the builder/homeowner to coordinate. What makes you stand out above you

THIS COULD ALSO BE

competitors? ACHIEVED USING OUR Taken from the mouths of some POWDER COATED of our long term clients, the "can STEEL MONO do attitude" and "reliability", as STRING IF REQUIRED, we live by our company motto: PERFECTLY SUITING always a step ahead! We also THE EVER POPULAR, offer a 3D render of your staircase INDUSTRIAL STYLE. design; this gives our customer a chance to better visualise the stair and balustrade, and to make any changes if necessary, before production begins. To the best of my knowledge, we're the only local stair company that to goes to this effort and no, we don't charge for the convenience.

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focus_ Abode.

SOMETHING AS SIMPLE AS FLOOR COVERINGS CAN AFFECT THE LEGALITIES OF YOUR STAIR DESIGN. THEN THE QUESTION NEEDS TO BE ASKED: FEATURE OR FUNCTION.

Tell us about some of your loyal customers and suppliers? That's a very hard question to answer. Our main customer base are local builders, and we love working with each and every one of them. Our longest-standing though, would be Blue Ribbon and Toscan Homes. I've worked with both these builders for over 10 years and they've stuck by me, even through changing companies and products. They were pretty much my only customers when I started my own business in the middle of the GFC, closely followed by G.J. Gardner, and I will never forget their support in that time. Now with that said, we have grown significantly since the early days and now work with many builders, of different sizes and capabilities, and I would like to thank each and every one of them for their ongoing support. What is the process when a new client walks through the door? Most, if not all of our clients, have already

spoken to their builder of choice and have been sent to our showroom for hands on/ visual selections. We display most of our standards, to give our builders’ clients a better understanding of the product they have allowed for in their tender/quote. If the client wants to upgrade or even downgrade from that standard, we are more than happy to discuss options within the price range/design specs. Timber selection is probably the most common change from the builders’ standard allowance when it comes to stairs. This is mainly due to flooring selections taking place after the tender process, because the builder has only allowed for a certain type of flooring. Take vinyl, for example; if your builder allows for vinyl, then after the tender process you choose a timber look vinyl that doesn't match your stair, you then either change the timber stair to suit, or we downgrade to a cover grade stair for the vinyl guys to clad. What are the top three things that people

should consider when choosing the right stairs? Well, first and foremost is making sure the design/layout suits the space and your needs. I’ve had to talk countless customers out of the idea to use full spiral stairs to lead to a second floor of just bedrooms. I’d like to see you carry a double bed up there ... Second is double checking the design complies with the current building codes. This is usually worked out at plan stage by your architect or builder, but it’s quite common for things to change during the building process, so this always needs to be double and sometimes triple checked. Something as simple as floor coverings can affect the legalities of your stair design. Then the question needs to be asked: feature or function. There are so many things to think about within this question, and from experience it often comes down to the age of children that are soon to be living in the new house. Are you really going to use glass panels

with mirror stainless handrails, if 80% of foot traffic will be under 12 years old? Are you going to have stainless wire around a stair void in the middle of a rumpus room? I think you get the point, but at the end of the day, these are also things that affect re-sale value. Since conception, what has been the most important thing to you as a local trade? The ongoing support and relationships with our regular builders. There's absolutely no way we could rely just on walk-in customers, as there aren’t enough of them. Also, the support of other local supply companies. Suppliers in Coffs, like most places, rely on word of mouth reputations, and most suppliers hold a mutual respect for one another, which keeps recommendations local. Without this, I think we would see a lot more out of towners, which in turn affects our local economy, which affects all of us, not only trades. Thanks Nic.

Proud to be associated with Stairmaster

Ashley Trengove 0428 806 335 | Nathan Bentley 0438 453 251 info@bentleyhomes.net.au | www.bentleyhomes.net.au

74 Coffs Coast focus

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RotaryLodge Expands! Rotary Lodge has been providing low cost onsite accommodation at the grounds on the Port Macquarie Hospital Precinct for over 20 years. The growing demand for accommodation for patients, guests, and family has seen a recent expansion of the premises. We chat to the Operations Manager Paula about what Rotary Lodge is and what they have been up to recently.

hen was Rotary Lodge established, and by whom? Rotary Lodge was the brainchild of Ron Walesby, a member of the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie, after the unfortunate tragic Kempsey bus crash. With the support of the District Governor and two members of each of the four local Rotary Clubs, namely Port Macquarie, Port Macquarie West, Laurieton and Wauchope, they formed the committee, and Ron as the chairman made the first press release in Feb 1991. The proposal was to build six units to accommodate accident and emergency patientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; families, which they completed in 1996. Then in early 2000, planning commenced by the then committee chairman Richard Morocco for Stage 2, which was opened in 2005 containing an additional 18 units to service the further expansion of the Base Hospital, including a Radiotherapy Unit along with patients at the Port Macquarie Private Hospital. In 2014, the realisation was that we either continue as we were with 24 rooms and turn people away, or extend the accommodation for patients and carers with the new $150 million extension to the Base Hospital and the Private Hospital. The decision was really a given, as we are here to support as many people as possible who need to attend Port Macquarie for their medical procedures. So, 2018 sees 12 more rooms opened up, and

the slab laid for another 12 rooms when funding allows. Can you tell us about THE LODGE OFFERS 12 NEW your role with Rotary ROOMS, MAKING A TOTAL Lodge, and who else is OF 36 ROOMS. THEY ARE A part of the team? FULLY SELF-CONTAINED My role is to ensure MOTEL TYPE UNIT, WITH and accommodate our the efficient operation EXTERNAL LAUNDRY clients from outside Port of Rotary Lodge 24/7, FACILITIES, COMMON Macquarie, from the every day of the year, to ROOM LOUNGES AND OFFManning region to the ensure the clients have a STREET PARKING. south to the Queensland comfortable and relaxing and western state borders. stay whilst undergoing We will also be able to their medical procedures. provide hospital in the I am supported by my home type accommodation for people who live able-bodied staff and the 10 volunteer members in outlying areas who may not need to be in of the Rotary Lodge Board. hospital, but who require daily medical services to Who does the Lodge offer its facilities? support their recovery. Rotary Lodge offers accommodation to What is the next stage that is planned? patients, carers and family members coming to The next stage for Rotary Lodge development Port Macquarie for any medical appointments is the completion of the final 12 rooms. This will and/or procedures. We also continue to service compete the full development of 48 rooms. the needs of Accident and Emergency patients, Where does the funding come from? as per our original charter. The funding comes from grants from the You've just complete a new stage of the Federal and State Governments and community development - how many rooms and what is groups, and with the current expansion funded included? by a loan from Holiday Coast Credit Union. The Lodge offers 12 new rooms, making a Funding for the original land was funded by total of 36 rooms. They are a fully self-contained the operator of the Base Hospital in the form of motel type unit, with external laundry facilities, the donation of the land, and the first stage was common room lounges and off-street parking. funded by Rotary Clubs and Federal Government How will the extra rooms benefit locals. This increase of rooms will allow us to expand grants, along with various community groups.

Stage 2 was funded by federal funded grants, Cancer Council of NSW, Hasting Council and a financial loan from Holiday Coast Credit Union. We were also funded by various local community groups. For Stage 3, unfortunately we have been unable to receive any grants from Federal, State or Local Government Areas, so we have again gone to the Holiday Coast Credit Union to gain a loan facility to complete this stage of the building. Various local community groups have contributed to the cost of the fit out of each of the individual 12 units. How can locals help Rotary Lodge? We would love to see locals assisting community groups to raise funds for Rotary Lodge. We are like so many not for profits; a dollar donated goes a long way. Also, donations given to the Rotary Lodge stay in Port Macquarie. Our biggest wish would be for local community groups to assist with putting on a evening meal for our guests. These are such rewarding events for not only our guests, but also for the community groups. Thanks Paula. Coffs Coast focus 75

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