Coffs Coast Focus i98 by Focus

GAYANDINYAM AGNES ZENA

November 2018. issue 98

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1 coffs coast focus.

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focus COFFS COAST

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. 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 material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as ‘Interview or Contributor’ are non-sponsored content. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved. FOCUS is printed by Fairfax Media Print & Logistics North Richmond. Our paper is FFC and PEFC certified and meets with ISO14001 accreditation. FOCUS delivery bags can be REDcycled at your local Coles Supermarkets and the paper through normal recycling methods.

team From the

Welcome to the November issue of Coﬀs Coast FOCUS.

e present to you another bumper edition! Nicci and Sam decided to take a well earned holiday overseas this month. Nicci headed over to Thailand for her first ever overseas trip with her best friend, and Sam headlined a 40th girls’ week away in Bali. It’s safe to say they need another holiday from their holiday. A big shout out to Pippa for holding down the fort this month. Can you believe that this edition is our second last edition for 2018? What a year it has been! We love this time of year. There is so much happening in the community, especially in the lead up to the festive season. The two major events we are looking forward to this month are Kennards Hire Rally Australia, which will take place from the 15th until the 18th November. Head to the Rally website: www.rallyaustralia.

com.au and book your tickets, TODAY! The other exciting event is, of course, The Jetty Festival. This event proved to be a huge success last year, so when Sam Phillips asked us to be involved again this year, we jumped at the chance. Make sure you pre purchase your tickets at www.stickytickets.com.au - there are only 100 tickets available for the FOCUS VIP Marquee. If you are lucky enough to bag yourself one, come on over to us and say “Hi!” This month we have interviewed lots of inspiring locals. Gayandinyam Agnes Zena is an artist who has recently decided to make the Coffs Coast home. Art is something that has always played a huge role in her life through family and culture, and her pieces are made using ethically sourced natural materials and recycled resources. Samuel Phillips is a Coffs Coast local who has

recently been away travelling the world. We wanted to hear about his epic trip, where he went, and his travel tips for those thinking of booking that holiday of a lifetime. If you have or know of someone who has an inspiring story to share, please email nicole@focusmag.com.au we would love the hear from you. NEXT MONTH’S EDITION It’s our annual Christmas edition! We will present to you our annual “Christmas Shop Local” feature and promote spending locally for all your Christmas gifts and celebratory food and drinks. Let’s boost our local retail economy in time for the festive season! FINAL SAY “Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible.” - Tony Robbins.

The A, B and C of Mercedes-Benz. Owning a new Mercedes-Benz can be as straight forward as A B C. A. Meet Lachlan, he is a Mercedes-Benz Certified Sales Consultant at Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast. B. Lachlan is professional, courteous and knows just about everything there is to know about Mercedes-Benz vehicles. C. You know that you will get the right advice and friendly service from Lachlan, before and after you have purchased your new Mercedes-Benz.

Make an appointment with Lachlan on 0402 214 323 for your personalised test drive and demonstration of our new A-Class, B-Class or C-Class motor vehicles today.

Mercedes-Benz Coffs Coast 4 Tolhurst Place, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 Tel 1800 693 876 www.mbcoffscoast.com.au

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Coffs Coast focus 3

Art

of Alchemy

The graduating class of the Coﬀs TAFE Diploma of Visual Arts are putting on an exhibition of their body of work this month at the Sawtell Art Gallery. The exhibition is called “Alchemy”, and showcases their journey of learning and transformation over the course of their studies.

ntroduce us to your group and what you’re aiming to achieve. We are the graduating class of the Coffs Diploma of Visual Arts course. We are a diverse group of people, coming from every corner, but meeting in the middle. The diversity in our artwork is our strength. We create in a range of 2D and 3D works. We are aiming to bring our audience along with us on the exciting journey we’ve had over the last two years. The title of the exhibition is Alchemy; what does that mean? Although primarily associated with the magical process of turning base metals into gold, alchemy is simply about transformation. Alchemy is a process of transmuting, or changing, a common substance, usually of little value, into something of greater value.

To us, art is alchemical. Making art of any form is a process of transformation, creation, and combination, whether it be creating new works from raw materials, or repurposing old materials. Have you exhibited before? Some of us have had previous experience exhibiting, outside of this course, individually and in collaborations. This is definitely a first for some of us, but it’s our first opportunity to exhibit together as a group. It’s new and exciting. What is your group’s connection to the Coffs Coast? We all live on the Coffs Coast and are currently attending TAFE in Coffs Harbour. It is an idyllic location, full of beauty, excitement and opportunity for those creative types, and it is where we have all chosen to study. For

the past two years we have been working towards completing our Diploma of Visual Arts. We believe this has changed all our lives profoundly and for the better. When do you come up with your best ideas? This is different for every one of us. We could get hit with inspiration at the most unexpected time, or the most inconvenient time, or the best. You might wake up in the middle of the night, burning with an idea, and you run for a pen. Maybe you think of something when you’re at work, maybe when you’re out in nature, or maybe you’re casually tossing ideas back and forth between friends, when suddenly one slaps you in the face (an idea, not the friend). Or sometimes you’re just working and working and pushing ahead with a specific project or piece, when something

just … clicks. What are the details of the exhibition? Alchemy will be held at the Sawtell Art Gallery, on the corner of Lyons Road and Bayldon Road, Sawtell, opposite the Sawtell Bowling Club. The exhibition will open on Saturday 10th November at 6pm.There will be speeches, great art, nibbles, drinks, live music and fun conversation. Alchemy will run daily, from 10am to 4pm, 11th until 20th November. Everyone is welcome, and it would be wonderful to see you there. You can find more information and message us at: www.facebook.com/AlchemyArtExhibition Or contact Carolyn Roelofs peppercaz@gmail.com 0414 824 155

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contents

Issue 98 - November 2018

focusinterviews

Gayandinyam Agnes Zena.

feature a special

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW TO BUY, SELL OR BUILD YOUR PROPERTY

Gayandinyam Agnes Zena is an artist who has recently decided to make the Coffs Coast home. Art is something that has always played a huge role in her life, through family and culture, and her pieces are made using ethically sourced natural materials and recycled resources.

Jess Boardman.

Chef Jessica Boardman manages to successfully run two local businesses: the Diggers Tavern in Bellingen and also her catering business, Jessica Boardman Private Catering.

Classics at C.ex Coﬀs.

the Usual

Suspects

16. WHAT’S ON for November 32. EAT local restaurants

We spoke to Grant George, a member of the Management Committee of the Classic Cars at C.ex Coffs, about the upcoming Classic Car show on November 11...

49. EVENTS with Daniel Heather 50. TRAVEL TIME with Kerry Moss 52. SOCIAL SCENE with Carole Beros 60. STARGUIDE with Terri Hall 63. BUSINESS MINDS with Sam Wardman

Jetty Theatre Rachael and Ellie. Rachael McConnell and Ellie Waters are sixteen year old school students who have recently directed a musical at the Jetty Theatre.

6 Coffs Coast focus

84. TECH TALK with Gavin Moroney

www.facebook.com/CoﬀsCoastFocus

No matter where you are in the world, read Focus for free online every month @ www.focusmag.com.au

Sam Dawson of PFLAG Coffs Coast.

Coffs Coast PFLAG (Parents and Friends of Lesbians And Gays) is a group of volunteers or allies who have either a child, friend or family member they love and who they want to support in the best way they know how.

ovember 2018 marks the one year anniversary of when the famous YES vote became a reality. On November 14th 2017, 12.6 million Australians voted and 7.8 million said YES that’s a 61.6 % majority. I will always remember sitting in front of my computer, Facetiming my son who was holding a gathering in Cairns, waiting to hear the results - and I could not help but cry when the result was announced. The tears were not only of relief, but of joy and all those feelings of equality and justice and fairness and recognition by the majority all those feelings rolled up into one. I said to Ben, “I am proud of Australia - now I have three children who have the equal right to marry”. One year on, and a reason to celebrate and remind everyone that this equality is so important for the LGBTIQ community, plus all their family and friends. There is still a need to educate and to remove fear from individuals who do not understand, and that’s where education and openness can help. PFLAG has many roles with supporting people, and the material is so useful in explaining many aspects of how the LGBTIQ community feel, as well as their families. It’s always important in a community to respect each other’s points of view, but there are basic human rights

and until people are in a minority group, it’s hard to explain the prejudice that people do encounter on a daily basis. A close friend said to me recently, “It’s so hard to keep defending being gay”. While the majority of Australians believe in equality, there are still people who maybe have never really hung out with gay people, or were brought up with homophobic views and have never explored other views. PFLAG has great material on this - or even check out the website! There are so many families here in our community who need this understanding. Park Beach Bowling Club is supporting a Pride Festival that is celebrating this one year anniversary with many activities based around their club, so look at their calendar advertised in this edition. There are fun, inclusive get togethers over a few days of activities, and everyone is welcome. Check our FB page for the next coffee meeting in November too. PFLAG is here to give help, support and information to families and friends of all gay people, right here on the Coffs Coast. We have great up to date booklets for free that are written by a gay parent and are so easy to read. Please feel free to contact me for a copy. w. https://pflagcoffscoast.com/ FB. PFLAGcoffcoast P. 0417 861 045

Coffs Coast focus 7

focusinterview.

G a y a n d i n y a m C u r r i e ( p h o t o b y Ya n b a l a l a )

Gayandinyam Agnes Zena Gayandinyam Agnes Zena is an artist who has recently decided to make the Coffs Coast home. ART IS SOMETHING THAT HAS ALWAYS PLAYED A HUGE ROLE IN HER LIFE, THROUGH FAMILY AND CULTURE, and her pieces are made using ethically sourced natural materials and recycled resources.

P a l m We a v i n g

8 Coffs Coast focus

i Agnes. Can you tell us how you came to be here on the Coffs Coast? I needed an escape from living in the city in Brisbane and happened to meet a lovely human, Travers Ross, who was visiting Brissy for a week and then heading back home to Coffs, so I jumped at the chance to tag along. He had to put up with a sensitive island girl complaining about how cold it was, but he took me on a tour around Coffs' beautiful beaches and also allowed me to visit his family’s farm in Halfway Creek, and I fell in love with Gumbaynggirr country. Where did your love of art come from, and when did it begin? The love has no genesis, really; it's just a part of my culture and my family. I've been creating art ever since I was a kid. Both of my parents being artists, it was inevitable I'd be a creative too. It wasn't until 2012 that I truly started taking it more seriously as a career, and I've been freelancing for the last few years. Where do you draw your inspiration from

when starting an art piece? A lot of my recent artworks speak on ancient Dreamtime stories that have been passed down to me by my father. I listen to nature, I speak to my ancestors and my higher self, and I stay aware of synchronicities and messages from the universe. I also use my artistic expression as a tool for activism, to speak on the environmental and social issues we face in today’s world. What's the process like from start to finish on an individual piece? I had a client (when I was working at a barbershop in Brisbane) who is a writer and one day said to me, “If an idea is good enough, you don't need to write it down to remember it”, and I thought that's amazing. So, from then on I started putting that into practice. It starts with a concept, message or idea, and from there I stay grounded in that idea and the piece. I like a fluid evolution of a piece, and I don't create forced artworks. Each piece has its own journey. Some pieces need a slow dance and may take months to finish. Other times I'll be in the right zone and finish a piece in a day or two.

Tr o p i c a l Wo v e n B o w l , W. I . P.

Gayandinyam Currie (photo by Clarif ied Designs)

Self-portrait (Miles Davis)

Kurrunji

Ya r r u

Where do you source your materials from? Weaving is something that can be very The Madagascan raffia I buy is sourced from therapeutic, and I want to give that to people my local art supply store in Brisbane, which I when they enter my weaving spaces. My most then dye with natural dyes such as turmeric, memorable weaving workshop was when I was coffee grounds, avocado etc. Any other natural invited to a women's refugee social group. They resources I use, such as Lomandra, palm, were newly settled to the country and could feathers, quills or seeds, have all been gathered barely speak English, but language was no by either myself or my father on Minyangbal barrier that day. I'd never seen that many people (Northern Rivers) and Gugu Yalanji country learn weaving so quickly in the time we had! It (North Qld) and are all obviously ethically was overwhelming and heart warming. sourced. It is imperative to have permission from You are also going to the traditional land owners be directing some other to harvest resources on events and retreats at their country. AweMill, a How does your culture creative studio and I wouldn't have my passion for play a role in your art? retreat space. Can you art if it weren't for my culture. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my foundation as an tell us a bit about those Whether through visual artist. Not every artwork events? art, dance or song, it has I create is culturally AweMill provides been one of the tools used centered, but I wouldn't various services, including by Indigenous peoples to have my passion for art if arts and entertainment, educate, communicate it weren't for my culture. events, threads, film/ and tell stories for centuries on Whether through visual production, project this continent. art, dance or song, it has management, workshops, been one of the tools used retreats, tours, wellbeing by Indigenous peoples to and artist development. I'll educate, communicate and be involved in facilitating Yanbalala art therapy, tell stories for centuries on this continent. My wellbeing retreats and weaving workshops. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll artworks are a way of documenting and keeping also be managing other artists in hosting their culture alive. own retreats or workshops at the AweMill. You also teach weaving workshops. How Where can we find out more about yourself important is teaching to you, and what have and future classes and events? been the responses from your past classes? I've recently started blogging, where I'll be I've been teaching for just over three years mostly sharing my story, but I'm hoping to start now, and I've enjoyed being able to teach people the conversations on environmental and social a functional craft that has existed for centuries. issues that need to be discussed. I'll be holding I'm truly overwhelmed with the support from different creative workshops at AweMill at least the people I've met at my workshops and have once a month, and all of my upcoming weaving actually made friends with some of them. It's workshops are at yanbalalaart.com - otherwise, beautiful to witness people from all different you can follow @Yanbalala on Instagram and walks of life come together in a safe space and Facebook. learn weaving, from festivals to community social groups to universities. Thanks Agnes. Coffs Coast focus 9

focusinterview.

Samuel Phillips

Holiday of a

Samuel Phillips is A COFFS COAST LOCAL WHO HAS RECENTLY BEEN AWAY TRAVELLING THE WORLD. We wanted to hear about his epic trip, where he went, and his travel tips for those thinking of booking that holiday of a lifetime.

lifetime

ey Sam. Tell us about your relationship with the Coffs Coast. I was lucky enough to move up to the Coffs Coast from Bowral (Southern Highlands) in 1996. I've been here pretty much ever since, apart from my adventures. I lived in London in 2006 with a few mates, which was quite enjoyable - six of us living in one room with three queen size beds on the floor was very eventful. We got to see a bit of Europe while over there, which was good. The Coffs Coast has it over London, though. We really don't realise how lucky we are to live in such an amazing town with some of the best rivers and beaches in the world. You have recently been on what some people would call the adventure of a lifetime? Yeah, I would have to say it really was a trip of a lifetime. Very go, go, go! But, that’s what I love! Starting off in Rome and making my way 10 Coffs Coast focus

down to Sorrento on the Our next stop was My highlight from Amalfi Coast via train, to Barcelona, which is a Santorini was hiring a catching a ferry over to beautiful city on the catamaran, heading Capri and hiring a boat beach. A lot going on out and swimming over there to take us at the beaches there in the middle of a around some of the most - volley ball, beach volcano and watching the beautiful islands in the bars and lots of very sunset with a glass of vino; world (put Capri on your skimpily dressed people I’d highly recommended it! bucket list!) - so I fitted right in After being on the with my Budgys! Amalfi Coast for a few After Barcelona, we days, we made our way visited Ibiza ... Ibiza ... to Naples, then on to Florence. I went to see wow! What an expensive place. Club prices the big statue of David, then made my way over there to get in vary from $100 to $250 to Venice, which is a bloody unreal place. No and to buy a drink inside the clubs is around cars or bikes, all water transport! Even the $20 - $30 a drink, and a bottle of water is garbo was a boat! around $15. We stayed in Venice for few days, then I Ibiza is not always about the party, so we made my way over to the Colourful House, ventured our way over to an island called which was called Burano; you catch a Boat Formentera, which had some of the best Taxi over to it - very worth it for a day trip. beaches I've ever been to. It wasn't anything From Venice we travelled to Madrid, Spain, like Ibiza; it was much more laid back. We and stayed there for a few nights and ate a hired a motor bike and went around the lot (this was probably my favourite place for island. food) - so much to choose from! If you were going to go to Ibiza, I would

recommend going for no longer than three days. Next on our itinerary was Santorini, Greece. What a spot! It's one place you couldn't take a bad photo. Beautiful sights everywhere! My highlight from Santorini was hiring a catamaran, heading out and swimming in the middle of a volcano and watching the sunset with a glass of vino; I’d highly recommended it! After Greece I made my way to Los Angeles and stayed there for a few nights and then ventured down to San Diego to see a band (Jack White). I then made my way to New York, New York! I'm not really a city person, but New York I love! Such a cool, funky city with plenty of trend and style. From New York I made my way to Cancun, Mexico. Everyone warned me it was an unsafe place, but where I went I didn't feel in danger once. I stayed in Playa del Mar for a few nights and then travelled to Tulum! My favourite! It's not very commercialised yet, but you

focusinterview.

“Once a year, go someplace you’ve never been before”

can see it's growing. I went swimming through the underground Cenotes (a natural underground reservoir of water such as occurs in the limestone of Tulum, Mexico) which was unreal. I made my way to the jungle to a place called Coba and the ruins of an ancient Mexican Pyramid. We climbed it and had an awesome look at the jungle where triennials and jaguars live (you only need one night here, or a day trip). I made my way back to Playa del Carman to do something I've always wanted to do, and that was to go swimming with Whale Sharks. What an experience! I was swimming around with one for around five minutes! I was looking at it eye to eye at one stage, and

it was honestly one of the best experiences I would have to say Ibiza. If I was in my I've ever had in my life! early 20s, the place would be unreal, but Out of all the countries you’ve visited, I just didn't quite feel it, and it's such an what would be the best place you visited expensive place. I would definitely go to and why? Formentera (Island off Ibiza) again though. Wow, tough question! My top three would How was your experience with the locals be Croatia, Italy and Queenstown, NZ. of some of the countries you visited? They all had their differences, but I would Everyone was very kind and helpful on have to say top spot goes to Capri, Italy! I this trip. It would be very helpful if you knew think it’s the most gorgeous place out of some of the languages a little more, that was them all, with great the only difficult barrier people, great food and between you and them. even better scenery. The majority can speak What would you English, but often only say was a place you know the basics. You meet so many new would happily not What would be some lifelong friends throughout visit again? of the best dos and your travels. The don’ts you could give world is a massive people who are place, and there’s looking to travel to something out there multiple countries? for everyone; you've just Dos - be very got to get out and do it! respectful of the countries' rules and regulations and respect the locals. Don'ts - don't be disrespectful of the countries' rules and regulations, and you shouldn't have a issue! What are some things that the average person doesn't know about some of the countries you travelled to? How easy the transport is over there. Whether it is by plane, train or boat, it is very easy to get around. Also, I have to ask after looking through your photos, why the budgy smugglers?

Ha ha! Well, they start a conversation, they turn a few heads (with some weird looks), but most of all I've been wearing them for a good three years now and I've been trying to get photos in them at some weird places, such as Times Square, as you might have seen! If you check out my instagram: @samuelllphillips, you will understand what I mean. I've made the Official @budgySmugglers Instagram twice, and now I'm going for a third! What advice would you give anyone else looking to travel the world? Get out of your comfort zone and go travelling! It will teach you a lot! You meet so many new lifelong friends throughout your travels. The world is a massive place and there’s something out there for everyone; you've just got to get out and do it! How do some of the places you travelled compare to the Coffs Coast? I have to say that the Coffs Coast has the BEST beaches in the world. I've been to many, and nothing comes near our beaches. We really are lucky. What does the future hold for you travel wise, and where do you think you will head next? I'm off to Sri Lanka and South America next year. Going to do some hiking. A lot of people who have done a lot of travelling also have recommended these places. I’ve already started to plan. Thanks Samuel. Thanks for listening.

Coffs Coast focus 11

Photograph by Elliot Daniel of The Design Cupboard

Intersecting ANGLES

Three women’s sure-handed approach, love of Sawtell and professional ﬂair converge within a workspace design that’s becoming a talking point in First Avenue.

hen commercial design does its job well, it seamlessly merges the meaningful, the practical and the X-factor. That’s exactly what Therese Ryan and Lyn Rovere wanted for their new workplace. Visitors to their Cornerstone Conveyancing premises, at the Rockpool building in Sawtell’s main strip, are met with striking angles, coastal chalky whites and greys, rugged recycled brick, elegant glass, and splashes of the azure blues and greens of Sawtell’s ocean pool. Therese and Lyn, business partners behind Cornerstone, had been serving their impressive state-wide client portfolio from a home office. Having rapidly outgrown the space, it was time for a refit into permanent premises. The pair were keen for an open-plan style that would convey the credibility that comes with the 60 years’ industry experience between them, as well as their deep love of Sawtell -

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not to mention practical solutions for merging workflows, the talents of team members and confidential high-stakes conversations, as well as juggling 15 files on their desks on any given day. Enter Lisa Daniel, interior designer from The Design Cupboard. “I'd seen Lisa’s work in the fit-out at Silvio’s,” says Lyn. “She’s local but had a real point of difference.” Having previously experienced fairly dry and conservative legal work environments, Therese and Lyn were keen to shake things up a little. “We wanted a designer who would also push us out of our comfort zone. It’s nice to go a step beyond, and to be a talking point.” For the design concept’s pivot point, Lisa used Cornerstone’s logo - a geometric intersection of three colours representing its client work across NSW: blue representing the coast, green for rural, and stone representing the urban and corporate. “That’s why there's nothing symmetrical in the office - it's all based on angles,” says Lisa. “The workstations are all on angles, the angled

zones of the meeting areas, problem, by housing WE’RE VERY MUCH the geometric angles in the a bespoke system to ABOUT RAISING feature walls.” elegantly store the THE BAR FOR Clever use of angles team’s many working CONVEYANCING ON also creates different paper files. THE COAST, AND AS zones within the 100 sqm Another talking A PROFESSION. space. Each zone serves point is an eye-popping essential functions, such as wall-to-ceiling photo a reception and greeting of Sawtell’s historic area and a large table and rockpool. “Lisa banquette that encourage really gave us wow client conversation. factor with that one,” says Therese. She said Being open-plan, getting acoustics right was their new space is transformative for clients. critical. Lisa’s solution is a striking feature wall “Conveyancing is a very stressful time in people’s with timber detail running in angled, geometric lives. A home is usually people’s biggest asset, designs. “With hard surfaces, noise bounces so, it's very important that when they enter that - that's why you can end up with distracting door, they feel safe and comfortable. We’re very echoes,” says Lisa. “The pockets created by the much about raising the bar for conveyancing small beams in the feature wall act like acoustic on the coast, and as a profession. The space panels - they absorb sound, as well as looking Lisa’s created, along with our experience and cool.” personalities, means clients really feel they're in The feature wall also tackles another practical good hands when they walk in to see us.”

Enrol today and maximise the number of days in care with our session care packages!

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10 North Boambee Road, North Boambee Open 6:30am-6:00pm 13 Scarba Street, Coffs Harbour Open 7:30am-6:00pm 2 Brothers Drive, Emerald Beach Open 7:30am-6:00pm 15 Heber Street, South Grafton Open 7:30am-6:00pm

www.ohanaelc.com.au

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P h i l

T r i p p

Phil Tripp has had a long and impressive career in the music biz, starting out in the USA and moving to Australia in the early '80s. HE HAS CHOSEN TO SEMI-RETIRE TO THE BEAUTIFUL COFFS COAST, WHILE STILL HEADING BACK TO THE US HERE AND THERE FOR SXSW, KEEPING AUSTRALIA, NZ, AND HAWAII CONNECTED to the world’s biggest and most prestigious tech, music and film conference and festival in Texas.

ey Phil. You’re originally from the US; can you tell us how you came to be on the Coffs Coast? When Reagan was elected in 1980 over Jimmy Carter, I vowed to leave the US and decided Australia was the best new home for me. Avoiding jet lag and a month wait for belongings, I took 5,000 vinyl albums, four guitars, vintage stereo gear, a few clothes and became a boat person - a Reaganomics Refugee. That is, I spent a month sailing with my belongings on the Oriana cruise ship from Miami to Oz. I noticed you spend a lot of time in a Hawaiian shirt. What is it you love about Hawaii, and what kicked off your interest in their culture? I’ve been there 75 times on trans-Pacific jaunts, travel writing assignments and holidays. I love the outer islands - sun-drenched Maui, lush green Kauai and the volcanic Big Island - scuba diving especially. I’ve got about 500 Aloha shirts and wear nothing else but boardshorts, a Panama hat and patterned sneakers. Mostly I adore the Aloha spirit there and its Mana (magic healing powers) as well as its slack key guitar music. Working with many great Hawaiian artists over the years, the music’s richness fills my soul. Where did your love of music start? My first album was Exotica by Martin Denny, with bird sounds set to Hawaiian vibraphone and percussion. The same year at seven, my first concert was Elvis Presley in his early days playing on a stage fronting a drive in theatre screen, with my older brother and his girlfriend 14 Coffs Coast focus

making out in the back seat, having to babysit I was lucky to enter the biz at me. and MC a show with its peak in 1971. Working Did you ever have Duke Ellington and Ella with Southern Rock dreams of being a Fitzgerald, take them and Jazz from my professional musician backstage to meet the duo Atlanta and New yourself? and get autographs plus Orleans bases, I got to Dreams yes, but I photos. That was a high work with, mix concert sound saved the world from point of their life too. for and tour an amazing series my mediocrity playing After working in the of iconic acts. drums in a school band, music industry for many and bass and guitar in a years, and moving to forgettable trio or two, Australia, you moved before I decided that into music media and journalism. What musicians generally get screwed and die poor brought that on, and what have been or young, while those in the management live some of the challenges and highlights of rich and die older. that career path? You have had a very colourful career in the I’d never had a "straight" career and I music industry, first working on a sound was road-tired, wanting a major about-face truck and then moving on to different change. Having taken typing in high school roles such as stage and production (an all girl class, as well as Home Economics) manager, concert producer, and tour I decided to enter media, living off freelance manager. What would you say were some writing solely for four years. In 1983, I of the highlights? discovered email and Apple computers, two I was lucky to enter the biz at its peak in years later started a PR firm, IMMEDIA!, and 1971. Working with Southern Rock and Jazz produced a music industry directory which from my Atlanta and New Orleans bases, I got became a contacts Bible. I had clients like to work with, mix concert sound for and tour Midnight Oil, Jon English, The Church and an amazing series of iconic acts, especially at Eurogliders, as well as major corporates and JazzFest, Newport and other festivals. Allman AUSTRADE. Brothers, Muddy Waters, Al Green, Little Feat, In the '90s, I got in on the Internet early and Professor Longhair, Johnny Winter, Marvin became an online and print mini-mogul, as Gaye, Stephane Grapelli, Earth Wind and Fire, well as producing industry conferences. Luckily, and Richard Pryor. I sold all my media interests to semi-retire in But, the top experience was when I limoed Coffs, just before paper and ink publishing my parents, who did not understand what I plummeted off the media cliff. did, to a venue 30 miles from their Carolina Challenges? Defamation lawsuits and threats home. They then got to watch me work when I did investigative journalism, but I was

never successfully sued. Highlight? Being able to exit Sydney and the music industry in 2010 at age 60 and moving to a house on a high hill overlooking the ocean and landscape of Coffs. You are involved with SXSW (South by Southwest) in the USA. Can you tell us about what it is and how it got started? The world’s largest and most prestigious tech, music and film conference and festival in Austin, Texas; it draws top global creative content talent, entrepreneurs and executives, about 80,000 attendees. It started 35 years ago to focus attention on Austin’s music industry; its motto is “Tomorrow Happens Here”, with a huge array of speakers, 2,000 global bands performing in 100+ venues and 150+ juried film screenings. What is your role with SXSW? And how did you come to be involved? Senior Business Development Manager for Australia, New Zealand and Hawaii - the Big Rocks of the Pacific - which translates to taking 800+ paid delegates and 60 showcasing bands over, selling stands like G’DAY AUSTRALIA and AUSTRADE, as well as keeping the event front of mind in this region through PR, publicity and relationships. I started in 2002, when there were only 20 Oz attendees and five bands, and grew it all out of Coffs when I moved here. Prior to that, I was the regional rep for MIDEM, then the dominant music confab held in Cannes, France each January. I can assure you, Austin and BBQs during spring break beats the Riviera and French suits in winter! Thanks Phil.

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focus_What’s On Coﬀs Coast

N O V E M B E R

Kennards Hire Rally Australia

Pink Silks Ladies & Tradies Fundraising Night

It’s Australia’s turn. Welcome to KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA in Coffs Harbour, the last event on the World Rally Championship calendar. Get set for three days of wild rally action, with easy family friendly spectating options to suit everyone and all budgets.

The third Ladies and Tradies night, with all money raised for to the Intensive Care Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. When 27th October. Where Hoey Moey. Time 6:30pm.

Forster-Tuncurry Lakeside Festival 2018

This year’s Lakeside Festival is set to be bigger and better, featuring headline acts Russell Morris, Bondi Cigars and The Mason Rock Band, backed up with local talent Galleri, Cranky Duck, The Black Nor-Easters and Belle Badi. Come and celebrate our fine local culture from the Mid North Coast, including street food, beverages, musicians, art and community. When Saturday, November 3rd. Time Create and Grow Market and Lakeside Art Exhibition runs from 9am to noon. Music Festival runs from 12pm to 8pm. Where John Wright Park, Tuncurry. Tickets $25 pp. www.lakesidefestival.com.au

Lazy Long Lunch

Come along to Aanuka’s Lazy Long Lunch - relax into Sunday, as you savour a long four course lunch and listen to laid back live tunes on the lawns looking out to beautiful Diggers Beach. When 4th November. Where Aanuka Beach Resort. To reserve your seat, please phone (02) 6650 2547 or email aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au

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When 15th until 18th November. Where Coffs Harbour. Tickets www.rallyaustralia.com.au

IGNITE MNC Symposium 2018 The Ignite MNC Symposium is a business and community event designed to bring together people who work, run businesses and live on the Mid North Coast. This year’s theme is Transformation by Design. When 7th November. Where Bellingen Memorial Theatre. Visit www.rdamnc.org.au for further information about speakers and activities and for the conference program.

Country to Coast Sawtell Street Party We have the fantastic RYAN MORRIS BAND from 4pm, the fabulous BO JENKINS from 5:30pm and the one and only ROUND MOUNTAIN GIRLS headlining from 7pm! Entry is FREE, but we will have collection bins for anyone wanting to donate to the awesome “Buy a Bale” Drought Relief Charity. Get everyone together, come have an amazing day, all while supporting a great cause! When 10th November. Where First Ave, Sawtell. Time 4pm until 9pm.

LGBTIQ+ Pridefest Weekend When 16th until 18th November. Where Park Beach Bowls Club. For more details about events and times, email Tod at t.t7@hotmail.com or phone 0415 580 126.

The Jetty Festival After a HUGE first event last year, we’re back BIGGER and better, with special Guest Kim Churchill’s awesome 90 minute set, plus many other talented musicians and bands to be added to the bill. There will be a handpicked variety of food, wine and beer for you to choose from throughout the day/night. When 24th November. Where Jetty Foreshores. Tickets www.stickytickets.com.au

Ladies

What exactly are you raising funds for? In recent years there has been an increased demand on the local Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and this has led to an expansion of an additional four ICU beds by this Christmas.

AND

TRADIES

The CHHC ICU department has two of these Prismaflex units but with the increase of four beds, this extra unit would be advantageous and a crucial addition. What difference will the Prismaflex unit make to the local community? The Prismaflex pumps blood from the ICU patient through a filter back into the patient’s circulatory system. Different therapies which can be used include: • processes that can involve fluid removal

The Pink Silks committee are holding their annual charity event on October 27 at the Hoey Moey called Ladies & Tradies Night. They will be raising funds for the Intensive Care Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus. FOCUS had a chat with Pink Silks President Tanya Johnson, to find out more ...

ell us about the latest fundraising event that Pink Silks Trust is organising. It’s our third annual Ladies and Tradies Night at the Hoey Moey on Saturday 27th October 2018

at 6:30pm.

It’s a fun night for everyone to come along with some friends and raise money for our community and this lifesaving equipment for our local Intensive Care Unit (ICU). There’ll be live music, finger food, three free drinks and lucky door prizes, which are inclusive

in the $40 ticket price, and we will include some fundraising activities. This specific event has been nominated as the PST “community” fundraising event, where the focus is on the equipment and services needed by all our local population.

• heamofiltration • plasma exchange • medication and toxin removal The Prismaflex is designed to mimic the body’s kidney function. Due to critically ill patients being so unwell, this unit does this function over a continuous 24-hour period.

Tell us about what the PST do: Each year, 90% of our funds are used to assist in all aspects of local women’s health issues - prevention, capital equipment purchases, assisting local support groups, increased awareness of disease and illnesses, education, initiation of new services in our community and 10% of funds to cancer or illness research. How we can donate? Please come along and join us at our Ladies and Tradies Night - the tickets are only $40. If 250 people come along, we start with $10,000 raised before the night begins. Anyone who would like to donate prizes for the night, please contact me: tanya@pinksilks.com.au For those unable to make the event but who would like to contribute towards this essential piece of equipment, please contact info@pinksilks.com.au and make a 100% tax deductible donation.

Patients can be using the Prismaflex for seven 10 days’ duration.

Last year, we raised $50,000 for “PINKY”, the first All-Terrain Medical Rescue Vehicle for the Coffs Coast to be used by our Local Emergency Services.

Who is involved in the event? The event is being donated by the very generous Hoey Moey and the free drinks by Carlton United Breweries and Treasury Wines, which means the $40 ticket price will be a direct donation towards the Prismaflex.

This year we believe we can raise the $60,000 because of the generosity of this local community and their nature to help others.

We currently have 25+ businesses supporting the fundraising activities through their charitable donations of trade time and products.

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2018 Regional

Business A W A R D S Mid North Coast

Congratulations to the local winners of the 2018 Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards. The Mid North Coast Regional Business Awards gala event celebrated the business excellence of 52 ﬁnalists at Sails by Rydges on Friday 14th September. Regional winners will compete for the state's top honour at the NSW Business Chamber State Business Awards on Friday 23rd November, Luna Park, Sydney.

ame Madonna Bannerman. Business Two Tails Wines. Category Won Excellence in Small Business and Regional Business of the Year. Describe your business and

in the process of looking into opening another restaurant and bar overseas in the not too distant future. This will showcase the Coffs Coast on an international level. Name Kirsty Christensen. Business Fresh Dental Care. your role. Category Won Outstanding Young Employee My husband, Barry and I are the directors of (18 - 35). Two Tails Wines. Two Tails Wines offers visitors What is your background, education, work a unique food and wine experience unlike any experience? other offered on the Coffs Coast. Our visitors The main roles I held previously were are able to enjoy a range of locally produced Operations Manager for Tabatinga and Duty wines made from grapes grown on site and Manager for Birch Carroll and Coyle. In between food prepared from ingredients sourced from these roles I worked many casual jobs at once, at within the Orara Valley and surrounds. Our open cafés, events, Dolphin Marine Magic etc. I started atmosphere and expansive outdoor dining area with Fresh Dental Care in 2012. provide guests with a true experience. I completed Year 12 at Orara High School. I How important is it to represent the Coffs went on to study a Diploma of Operations and Coast Community? Tourism Management, a We consider ourselves Certificate IV in Frontline an integral part of Management, Certificate both the local Nana IV in Small Business Glen community and Management, Diploma of AS A BUSINESS, WE MAKE the community of the Events Management and also OURSELVES AVAILABLE TO broader Coffs Coast, the Performance Edge with THE COMMUNITY AT LOCAL and firmly believe that LMA. EVENTS TO PROVIDE ORAL we have contributed Describe your business and HEALTH INFORMATION AND to making Nana Glen your role. TOOTHBRUSHES TO THOSE a destination. We are Fresh Dental Care have WHO MAY NOT READILY BE providing employment four dental clinics in Grafton, ABLE TO ACCESS THIS. opportunities to locals, Coffs, Urunga and Macksville. and we are very proud of The Fresh philosophy is that the fact that we employ people should be happy so many of our staff and healthy. My role in the from right here in the Valley. There are so many practice is as the Business Manager; I oversee our terrific companies on the Coffs Coast, so we are business functions and operations, develop and very privileged to be representing our community implement our policies/procedures, update our in Excellence in Small Business. Infection Control procedures and Work Health Where do you see your business in the next and Safety, marketing for the four surgeries, year? In the next five years? The next 10 HR and Business Oversight and growth. At years? Fresh we have 64 staff, including dentists and Velvets Restaurant has been so successful, support, so part of my role is to ensure our team that we want to share it with the world! We are are engaged, supported and stimulated in their

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career at Fresh Dental Care. This is provided through our onboarding programs, continued personal development plans, in house training programs, provision of a Business Coach and also through our Smile Program, which is a staff engagement program. How important is it to represent the Coffs Coast Community? Representing the Coffs Coast Community is hugely important to me, and I have always been actively involved in events and community projects around the area. Over my time I have assisted with sporting group fundraisers and trivia nights, assisted in re-building the Coffs Harbour Show Committee, beach clean-up days with Jetty Dive, created a school beach clean up after big storms, Breast Cancer Fundraisers, food donations and more. As a business, we make ourselves available to the community at local events to provide Oral Health information and toothbrushes to those who may not readily be able to access this. I think that (as a person and a business) it is important to be a part of where you live and truly engage in all it has to offer. Be the change you imagine! Name Mike Swarbrick. Business Key Employment. Category Won Outstanding Employer of Choice. Describe your business and your role. Key Employment is dedicated to help people find a job and keep a job. We offer a full range of services, from assessment, training and on the job support, to ensure our clients get the same wages and employment conditions as workers without disability. Our vision is: “To provide extraordinary services to people with disability so they get equal opportunities and access to training, jobs, careers, traineeships, apprenticeships and further study.” My role is Acting Chief Operations Officer. I manage all programs delivered by Key, including DES, NDIS and training. I am responsible for

managing a team of around 50 people and couldn’t be prouder of the effort they put in each day to assist our participants improve their lives. Our team is professional, dedicated and committed to helping all our participants become the best they can be. How important is it to represent the Coffs Coast Community? It is vitally important to represent the Coffs Coast Community. We work closely with organisations across all community fields, including but not limited to: legal, housing, Indigenous, refugee and migrant, youth, deaf community, ADE, NDIS, medical, sporting organisations, schools, local council and disability advocacy groups, and accept direct referrals from them regularly. Name Brad Plummer. Business Mr Plummer PTY LTD. Category Won Young Entrepreneur and Business of the Year 2018. Describe your business and your role. Here at Mr Plummer we run a team of four tradesmen, two apprentices, and recently I have just employed an office administrator. Our business has tripled in size in three years, and I hope will continue to do so for the years to come. We have just started a side venture of full bathroom renovations, and the phone has been non stop ringing. How important is it to represent the Coffs Coast Community? Coming from a small beachside town down south, I feel it’s important to keep money in our community. Plus, I feel a sense of pride and achievement servicing an awesome town. Where do you see your business in the next year? In the next five years? The next 10 years? In 10 years I want to have employed more Coffs locals and see my side venture of Coffs Harbour Bathroom Renovations continuing to grow.

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ey Adrian. Tell us a little about your relationship with the Coffs Coast. My relationship with the CC is very new. I grew up in Goulburn and used to pass through Coffs when my family and I drove up to QLD for a holiday. About three years ago, my wife, daughter, and I simply decided to get out of Sydney. We wanted a better lifestyle. We wanted some land to move around on, chooks and a veggie garden, and less traffic. We flew to QLD and rented a car, drove out to Nimbin and Lismore, down to Ballina and back up through Byron. I love the hills and hinterland, while my wife loves the sea. Back in Sydney someone mentioned Bellingen; we looked online, drove up, and fell in love. We made the decision to move very quickly after that. As a personal trainer, you would have seen many levels of fitness and health. What are some of the more common men’s health issues you come across? Excess weight is easily the most common, followed by simple deconditioning, which may be described as a lack of muscle tone and cardio fitness. As a newly graduated Exercise Physiologist, I can safely say that it’s these two conditions that lead to so many more sinister health conditions. Being a little overweight and out of fitness can seem so innocent, yet this can be a prelude to many life-threatening health conditions such as high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and 20 Coffs Coast focus

Adrian Betts is a Personal Trainer and gym owner, and newly graduated Exercise Physiologist. We spoke to him about THE IMPORTANCE OF FITNESS AND EXERCISE IN MEN’S HEALTH, AND THE IMPACT IT CAN HAVE ON ALL DIFFERENT AREAS OF LIFE. He has also given us a few tips on moving towards a healthier lifestyle.

heart attack - all of which are leading causes of just a vehicle to develop our health and fitness death for men aged over 45 years. and mental strength, which allows us to fully Besides these chronic health conditions, engage with life. As humans we like being fit issues such as work and family commitments, and strong, moving, and at our best to do the social peer pressure, sedentary behaviour, and things we want to do … to be happy. the Aussie drinking culture are all common What would you recommend as some health issues I come across. We may feel the daily activities or exercises for men to do need to be a provider if they can’t access a for our family, partners, gym? and children. This The best activities or may influence our exercises are the ones commitments and you enjoy and can do Being healthy provides us with priorities, leading to consistently. All we need the ability to live our life to the problems finding time to to do is move regularly fullest, for as long as possible. exercise and look after and often, and this can Having great health from our own health. Finding be done in any way that as early on as possible a balance between you enjoy. Gardening, gives us the best chance at these issues and our riding motorbikes, life and being able to do all that commitment to health playing with the kids, we can in this one short lifetime. is at the core of the walking, swimming, problem. taking care of jobs In your opinion, what around the house … are some of the most all help to build up that important aspects of staying healthy? physical activity time. The gym or any sport The term “healthy” can encompass muscle helps by being a dedicated place and time in strength, cardio fitness, mental health and which to exercise. resilience, being disease free or even less How do you find physical activity and frequency of general sickness such as the training helps with mental health? flu. Being healthy provides us with the ability Most of us know or have heard that to live our life to the fullest, for as long as exercise has an impact on our “feel good” possible. Having great health from as early on hormones such as serotonin and endorphins. as possible gives us the best chance at life and Exercise is also great for our brain, specifically being able to do all that we can in this one our executive function, a set of cognitive short lifetime. I really believe that being healthy processes that control our emotions, thoughts, opens many opportunities in life. Exercise is behaviours, and actions.

The body takes physical activity as a good stress and adapts accordingly. Imagine being a man in Palaeolithic times. Our brains learned to adapt to physical stress like starvation, hunting and gathering, and travelling by foot. For example, when hungry or hunting for dinner, the brain becomes heightened, so you can remember where you saw that apple tree from last week or to work out how to trap that delicious rabbit. Training also gives us social connection and a place to switch off from any worries of the day. We can vent frustrations in a boxing session, forget about the boss during strength training, learn to forget issues at home while going for a run. What's the best advice you could give someone wanting to work towards a healthier lifestyle? Set a plan and seek support from family, friends, sporting team, or a professional. Take your time and enjoy the journey. It takes time to develop, and the idea is for it to be a long-term plan, not a 12-week transformation. Setting small achievable goals sounds cliché, but it really works. Just pick one small aspect of your life to develop and change and focus on that until you have it. It may be as simple as scheduling a weekly shop, taking 10 minutes to make breakfast, walking to the shops just one day of the week, or doing an adventure activity with mates. Pick one small goal and master it before moving to another. Thanks Adrian.

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C H U R C H I L L

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i Kim. Take us back to the very beginning, to when music became a pivotal part of your life. How did you evolve as an artist from there? When I was really young, my mum decided to get some guitar lessons, and then I showed a little interest and she started passing down her lessons each week to me when she got home. For some reason I just really gravitated to the guitar. Not music, exactly ... but mastering the guitar felt like moving towards the person I wanted to be. I took classical guitar exams for about ten years, and it wasn’t until I was 16 that I started really loving songwriting and the musical processes. I also started busking around then. I had a lot of nostalgia for the small folk festivals we would go to when I was younger, and I started applying for them. When I started getting into some of them, I figured I had better start playing folk music. I didn’t really know what that was (still don’t entirely) but I loved Bob Dylan and figured if I wrote songs on an acoustic guitar and incorporated a bit of my classical vibe, it would do the trick. It’s kinda all stemmed from there. 2017 saw the release of your sixth studio album. Tell us about the inspiration behind this body of work and also the recording/ production process … Well, it’s an album that was written in a week after scrapping an album I had spent three years on. It’s about getting past a difficult time, celebrating the relentless movements of life - and especially when you're moving past or through challenging stuff. It was an important one for

me to get out of my unconscious. The beginning of a new cycle is a profound time, I think. It can be awful if it’s a hard and darker cycle of your life, but if it gives you that liberating feeling of new beginnings, then that seems worth a little celebration and some songs. Generally, what inspires you musically? Absolutely everything! But, do you mean bands in particular? That’s changing pretty consistently. At the moment I’m really enjoying The Brian Jonestown Massacre. Good stuff! You’re playing at this year's Jetty Food and Wine festival here in Coffs Harbour. What’s your favourite cuisine and why? Ha! That’s REALLY hard. I don’t know. I have really fond memories of Tokyo and how incredible the food was there. But then, similarly with Mexico. I could safely rule out Peru, I think ... but then who could go past a good Irish pub stew! Hmmmm ... Do you like to get into the kitchen and cook when you’re not on the road? I do. But I’m not often "not" on the road. I do a lot of cooking out of my van - ramen, omelettes, stir fries - easy stuff, mainly using ingredients that don’t need refrigeration (as I don’t have a fridge in my van). What have you got planned for the next 12 months? Well, I want to record four EPs that go together - like quarters of a circle. Each one is recorded in a different part of the world. I’m deep in that at the moment. It should start coming out early next year. Thanks Kim.

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Melbourne

CUP

2018

Coffs Racing Club’s Melbourne Cup Day event is the only place on the Coffs Coast where you can watch live horse racing on Melbourne Cup Day!

an you briefly describe the event? This special event has been running for some years now and is a popular event outside of our Cup Carnival and Pink Silks events. Guests can enjoy all the live action from Flemington, as well as our own local races on track too. It’s a great day out for all! Open to everyone with general admission, or if you prefer a sit-down affair then, join us at our Luncheon event. What packages are available? We have a scrumptious Melbourne Cup Luncheon package available, which includes racecourse entry, a race book, six drink tickets (beer, wine, bubbles and soft drinks) and a hot and cold buffet. The buffet by the Cater Group features many delicious dishes, including fresh chilled seafood, chicken satay and mustard crusted roast beef, plus fresh salads, sides and desserts. Tickets are just $129 each or table of 10 for $1,290. What will be the highlights on the day? We have five local races to be hotly contested, with full TAB and bar facilities available throughout the race club. Plus, Park Beach Plaza Fashions on the Fields for the ladies and fashion forward gentlemen. With all the action from Flemington live on the screens throughout the club, it will be a fantastic day out for all. We encourage corporates, business groups and friends to get a table and take advantage of the special Luncheon event on the day. What can we expect from Fashions on the Field? Our Fashions on the Fields (FOTF)

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are proudly supported yet again by our great sponsors, Park Beach Plaza. There are some fantastic prizes up for grabs, and we have some fabulous judges too. Categories include: Best Millinery piece, Best Dressed Couple and Best Dressed Lady. Registrations are open until 1pm on the day. Prizes include: Park Beach Plaza gift cards, Le Dãin Designs jewels for the Best Millinery, flowers, plus G.H.Mumm Champagne. What are your tips for the fashion entrants? Melbourne Cup is a spring racing carnival, so dressing for the season is a must! According to The Trend Spotter, here are the 2018 tips for FOTF entrants: “Keep your silhouette defined but choose a dress with unique design details. Ruffles, flounces, statement sleeves and laser cut details are all winning looks. As mentioned, also watch that your hemline doesn’t fall too far above your knee and avoid strapless styles and anything with glitter or sequins. You want to look festive and fashionable, not like you’re headed to a nightclub. When it comes to your headdress for Cup Day, it pays to be brave and get creative. Choose a unique fascinator that’s more artwork than hairpiece”. We look forward to seeing some amazing fashions on the day! Where can we book tickets and find out more? To purchase your tickets to the Luncheon event, head to our website and everything you need to know is there www.coffsracingclub.com.au General admission on the day is $10, and gates open at 10am on the day.

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Bowls Club PARK BEACH

Park Beach Bowls Club is joining forces with the LGBTIQ Coffs Connection and Community group to host Pridefest - a great event running over a few days to celebrate the one year anniversary of marriage equality, plus more. Emma, Tod and Parul tell us more.

i Emma. What is your role at Park Beach Bowls Club?

I coordinate all the Events and Functions at PBBC. I have been in this role for around three years and enjoy all the different people and groups that I get to meet every day. So when Tod and Parul from the LGBTIQ Coffs Connection and Community met with you, why did you think this idea would be great to support? I originally met Tod and Parul last year when they approached PBBC about being involved in the first Pridefest. I thought it was a good chance to give back to the community by supporting the LGBTIQ+ community. The event was a great success for Tod and Parul and for PBBC. Tod and Parul, why is Pridefest so important to you?

26 Coffs Coast focus

It's been one year since the YES vote. We've finally started recognising that love is love, no matter what gender is attached to it. Now, we want Coffs to come together and prove that there is a strong inclusive community here that celebrates our differences, rather than judge us on it. Come join in the fun, and while you're at it, make a stance for a better, fairer, more inclusive and welcoming Coffs community for all. What activities will be running over this Pridefest Weekend? PBBC will be holding Barefoot Bowls on the Saturday morning, followed by a Q & A in the upstairs Function Room. Emma, what is great about the Park Beach Bowls Club? Who can come and enjoy the club and all its facilities and

services?

weekly club events include raffles, trivia, Park Beach Bowls Come join in the fun, and membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; draws and Club has something while youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re at it, make promotions and free for everyone. We have a stance for a better, entertainment on a three beautiful greens, fairer, more inclusive Friday and Saturday which can be enjoyed and welcoming Coffs night. We have function by bowlers and noncommunity for all. rooms available for bowlers. Driftwood conferences and special Dining offers a range celebrations, or if you are of delicious meals and looking for a more casual has just been awarded atmosphere, we offer an Excellence Award from Trip Advisor. Our causal BBQ packages and Barefoot Bowls.

Coffs Coast focus 27

focusinterview.

Bryan + Sharon Shadbolt The News Hub & Gifts at Sawtell

Bryan and Sharon Shadbolt have owned and operated the Sawtell Newsagency since 2005 and have recently gone through a rebrand, now calling themselves The News Hub & Gifts @Sawtell. FOCUS chatted with the couple to find out more ...

hat is your connection to the Coffs Coast? Bryan and I moved here 15 years ago. We had a property in rural Hawkesbury and a holiday home up here in Coffs. It wasn’t a hard decision to make. We already loved the area, as we had spent many holidays here over the years. It turned out to be a fantastic move, and we loved the coastal change. Tell us about your business and how you got started. We were looking at a range of business opportunities at the time, when we saw this business for sale. Both of us thought - wow, that is perfect. The fact that it was in the heart of the beautiful Sawtell village made it an even more attractive proposition for us. When and why did you start your business? It was 2005 when we bought the business; full-time jobs were hard to find. Browsing through the local paper one Saturday morning, we saw it advertised for sale and thought this would be the perfect business we could both work in together. Sawtell Village is such a beautifully unique part of the Coffs Coast; we’re very lucky to be part of it! What do you like about what you do? I love the camaraderie that comes from dealing with our customers who always love to stop by for a chat, buy a scratchie or tell us the latest joke. And the fun we have as a team - there isn’t a day that goes by where we don’t have a good laugh. Unpacking our fabulous gift

28 Coffs Coast focus

range when it arrives in store is another parcel pickup and a dry cleaning service. treat. Lunch time is also a highlight, as When our website is complete, we will we are surrounded by the beauty of the be one of the few businesses on the village and its fantastic array of eating Coffs Coast where you will be able to establishments. shop online 24/7. What is unique about your business? So, watch this space ... it’s all very We have one of the largest range exciting. of newspapers, magazines and cards Tell us about your community on the Coffs Coast. Our many repeat involvement. customers know that if we don’t have it, We are very active in the local we will endeavour community and to get it. We support our local are the newest schools. We are gift store now in also a sponsor Unpacking our fabulous gift Sawtell, and we of Variety The range when it arrives in store is pride ourselves on Children’s Charity. another treat. Lunch time is offering a unique The past two also a highlight, as we are range of carefully years we raised surrounded by the beauty sourced gift items over $12,000 of the village and its fantastic for birthdays, with the help of array of eating establishments. weddings, many Coffs Coast christenings and business; joining special occasions. 84 other bash cars, What is your we visited many business vision for 2018/2019? remote towns in NSW giving equipment, Continue to expand our range of computers etc. to children who are sick, specialist giftware, as it is proving disadvantaged or with special needs. exceptionally popular. Plus, we are The best reward for us is to see the developing our website at the moment excitement and big smiles on the kids’ and will shortly have our gift lines faces when we arrived. And to dress up available 24/7. as Bananas in Pyjamas and act like big How have you created your own kids! business opportunities? It gave us great pleasure being Building and maintaining strong involved in presenting a bus to Toormina relationships with our customers is vitally High, which was donated by Variety The important to us, and staying in touch Children's Charity. with their needs, spotting opportunities Where can we find out more? and responding accordingly. Like us on Facebook. Visit our store to What makes you stand out above see the amazing range we have to offer! your competitors? And stay posted, as our website is due Our variety. We have a serious range to be launched within the next month, of magazines, newspapers and specialist and we would love to serve you 24/7. giftware, a key cutting service, as well as Thanks Bryan and Sharon.

COFFS COAST DINING GUIDE

A picture is worth a thousand words. The dining guide in focus is beautifully presented in full gloss with stunning photography to show off your restaurant or cafe to our hungry 48,000* readers each month. You can even change your photos each month to suit your menu.

Love & Kisses

DINING GUIDE COVER

They’re back at last - the wait is over. The Golf Ball Finding Glasses that everyone loved last year are finally back in stock, same price, $14.95. Don’t miss out this Christmas! Love & Kisses owner Judy Sheehan says they’ve also reordered more of the beautiful Christmas decorations that sold out so fast last year, and they’ll all be in the shop from Monday 29th October. Elf on the Shelf is back too, to bring some Christmas magic to your home, and if you haven’t seen “Letters to Santa” from the same company, do call in and ask … it’s so clever, and creates a beautiful permanent keepsake from your child’s Santa letters.

Big Banana Pancakes, served with our farm fresh bananas, Carobana honeycomb cream and maple syrup, sprinkled with honeycomb dust, from The Big Banana.

Love & Kisses hot sellers right now are: • Lang Calendars $29.95 • Elf on the Shelf $53.95 (best price anywhere!) • Letters to Santa $39.95 • Museum Collection shopping bags $14.95 • Lava lamps $19.95 (a blast from the past) • Grow-Your-Own-Tea kit $21.95 (love it!) • Grub Mugs, four for $19.95 - perfect for kids leaving home next year.

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

C A F É

1/2 PAGE CHEF PROFILE

TARA GUNDRY

New stock is arriving almost every day at this lovely little shop, so do make time to call in often to see what’s happening. When you need the nicest half hour of retail therapy in town, Love & Kisses is definitely the place to go.

A Q U A

1/4 PAGE DINING GUIDE

WHILST WORKING AND TRAVELLING, I LOVED EXPLORING NEW CULTURES, TRYING DIFFERENT FLAVOURS AND LEARNING NEW COOKING SKILLS.

*readership estimated

FREE PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY Coffs Coast focus 29

Coastal Karma - 2 Shops in 1 Willy Wagtail Homewares A destination home and lifestyle store ... situated in an elegant rural garden setting located in Boambee, NSW. Debrah, the owner, believes everything you choose to live with should have a story or hold some meaning, be practical and beautiful all at once. Willy Wagtail Homewares stock a specially curated collection of quality contemporary and classic traditional design that has stood the test of time. Buy once and buy well. If you need to know more, see what these happy customers said: “They carry everything you need to create a beautiful and comfortable home. A must to visit for that one off gift, or just to treat yourself. Surrounded by an impressive display of trees and flowers, this unique establishment will entice you to return. With a blend of rustic and contemporary homewares, friendly staff, awesome stock - a fun place to investigate and find some interesting things! Great gift ideas." And: “Willy Wagtail have a large and varied range of goods, from pyjamas to gardening tools. I spent hours walking around looking at all the unique pieces and bought some gifts, which were very reasonably-priced. I will definitely be back. For both locals and visitors, a visit to Willy Wagtail Homewares is an experience of discovery, where you are sure to find something you love."

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In April 2018, a marriage of quirky and unique was made! Coastal Karma is your everyday boutique, where fashion, gifts, homewares and more can be found. Your Treasured Creations is where scrapbooking/card-making classes and supplies are available. As you enter the shop, you experience a wonderfully rich aroma, a mix of candles, soaps and incense; meanwhile, your ears will hear the much-loved Kookaburra call - our doorbell. Following this, your eyes will encounter a rainbow of beautiful gifts and homewares. During class time, there is often laughter and chatter coming from the back of the shop, where creativity is happening.

Zab Design's Haven't checked out Zab Design's in a while? IT'S TIME TO DO SO! After 12 years, Helen is closing the doors, retiring and ready to travel. All our beautiful new stock arriving from the latest trade fair will be discounted - a great chance to give your home a fresh look for Christmas.

The “Two Shops in One” idea formed from a friendship between Narelle and Bronwyn, after Narelle started attending one of Bronwyn's card-making classes. They share the costs and the space, but operate under two separate businesses, and it works really well.

Find that one special item to finish a room, whether it be wall art, ornaments or a centrepiece for that special table or sideboard.

Narelle has over 15 years of experience in customer service, and is really enjoying having her own business. Over the years Bronwyn has attended classes and workshops all over Australia, including one with Sue Wilson from Creative Expressions. Meeting Sue and doing her workshop was definitely a highlight in Bronwyn's career. She enjoys sharing her creativity, and feels blessed to turn a passion into a career. Narelle and Bronwyn love their little shop and believe you will too. Make the stop; come and visit and find that quirky extra special gift and/or come to create, relax and learn scrapbooking or card-making.

Perhaps, just spoil yourself with some beautiful jewellery. Yes, all the nature Bijoux is discounted too. Or perhaps a new bag, or freshen up your home with an Aromabotanicals Diffuser, candle or room spray.

Take advantage and do your Christmas shopping now and save, save, save!

Don’t forget our lovely glass ornaments or the quirky hand carved ducks - all with a fantastic discount! Kandy and Helen would like to take this opportunity to thank all the loyal customers who have supported Zab Design's over the years and hope you take advantage of this time to spoil yourself and save some serious dollars for Christmas.

B U S I N E S S

C A R E E R S

G U I D E

DI LEACH

OAS BUSINESS BOOKKEEPING

FOCUS caught up with Di Leach from OAS Business Bookkeeping, to share her insights from the past 20 years supporting business owners.

hat advice would you give to someone thinking about starting a business? As business owners, we need to make sure we have the foundation in place. But I’m finding more often this is not the case in BUSINESS. People have a great idea, or produce a fantastic product. They have done their research and there is a market. “So, let’s create a business and a great lifestyle”. They jump into supplying their product, they receive money, they employ staff. Fantastic; they are adding to their sales. BUT what about their business structure, what about the ATO, what about insurance to protect this growing asset? This should be considered FIRST in starting a business. OAS offers this assistance. START AT THE BEGINNING; GET IT RIGHT FIRST TIME.

What are some of the biggest challenges you see business owners experience? With attendance to Growth is the key to all business, One of the biggest the businesses day to but it can sometimes leave challenges we experience is day transactions, OAS the owners struggling when a business enters into are able to produce with cash-flow, which can a growth phase. Growth really great reporting potentially cripple a really good is the key to all business, that shows our clients business. but it can sometimes leave what is happening the owners struggling within their business with cash-flow, which right now. This then can potentially cripple a empowers owners really good business. During these times it is to respond immediately and react to issues imperative that the growth is managed and because they have a current awareness on the business owners have knowledge and a daily basis. Not at the end of the quarter, understanding of their liabilities, when they not at the end of the financial year. A major are due and how to make provision for these benefit to business owners. costs. What skills does your team bring business How does OAS help business owners owners? overcome these challenges? OAS knows how businesses operate. We

create systems and checklists that are effective with time and produce efficiencies and accuracy within your Bookkeeping world. The OAS team have qualifications in Diploma of Management, Cert IV Bookkeeping, Cert IV Accounting, Certificate of Accounting, Cert IV Office Administration, Cert III Business Administration. We also hold registration with ATO, ICB (Institute of Certified Bookkeepers) and many software companies. In addition, our team at OAS are upskilling constantly. We have regular training sessions from ATO, ICB, MYOB, Xero, Quickbooks, to name a few. We are up to date with legislation that effects businesses and know how to apply accounting rules and regulations to your business. A real advantage in today’s business world.

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Salt & Pepper Squid Tacos with tomato cucumber salsa, drizzled with Tabasco buffalo mayo; Mediterranean vegetable pizza with a three cheese blend and wood fired rustic pizza base; Burrito bowl consisting of quinoa, smoked corn, five bean mix, roast capsicum, tomato, cucumber, lettuce, toasted tortilla, sour cream, guacamole and sweet chilli sauce from The Toormina Hotel. 32 Coffs Coast focus

focusinterview.

cocktail

NEVILLE MOTT T O O R M I N A

Crafty

H O T E L

hen did you first We always keep it seasonal at Toormina become interested in Hotel, giving us four changes a year. This cookery as a career? allows me to introduce new items and teach At a very early my fellow colleagues new techniques and age, growing up on inspire them with new flavours. Nan’s farm there was always great fruit and Do you have a favourite ingredient to vegetables on hand and with my Italian work with? background, cooking has always been a big I don’t have one favourite, but if I had to part of my life. I always enjoyed food and narrow it down I would say chilli, garlic, thyme. trying different styles of cuisines; it didn’t really Throughout your career, what famous take me much to decide where my passion was chefs have you admired and why? and the path I chose to pursue. Paul West is a great Aussie chef; I love the What local produce way he lives and his features on the menu ability to source food at Toormina Hotel? in our great country. We have fresh local Giorgio Locatelli has a GNOCCHI IS MY pasta from Bellingen, great style of cooking; which is a big feature his low key, peasant style FAVOURITE DISH, AS IT on our menu; we use cooking really intrigues IS FAMILY MADE AND Aussie Fresh Seafood me, as does his good old A RECIPE WHICH HAS for all our fresh fish and fashioned Italian cooking. BEEN HANDED DOWN local produce. I also like How do you help to involve my family; we develop the skills of THROUGH GENERATIONS. use gnocchi which my upcoming trainees and Zia (Aunty) makes locally apprentices at your - Noona Cali Gnocchi. establishment? What is your favourite dish on the menu Firstly, I am totally honest with them, not currently and why? trying to paint a pretty picture for them and Gnocchi is my favourite dish, as it is family telling them they can just cruise through. We made and a recipe which has been handed are working when most people aren’t, you down through generations. can work in some extreme conditions, and What would you say is the biggest some people find it very daunting. You need to influence on your cooking? teach them to respect food, and it will reward My family is my biggest influence, consisting you long term. If you don’t have the passion of Nan, Noona, Zia, Mum and the strong for cooking and food, I would tell you you’re Italian community in Griffith. wasting your time. How often do you change the menu? Thanks Neville.

Stone & Wood - The Prequel Fresh and ice cold on the taps at Element Bar on the Coffs Jetty Strip is this new rare special release from the absolute gurus of craft beer at Stone & Wood ... The Prequel. Dubbed “the father of Pacific Ale”, this ultra dry hopped Aussie style ale pours hazy gold and has been loaded up with Galaxy hops, which give it powerful aromas of passionfruit, pineapple, mango and citrus. It’s balanced by a low bitterness and finishes dry and crisp, to give you a super refreshing mouthful with every drop. An absolute spring gem!

food Vendors CALLING ALL

fter a huge first event last year, we're back BIGGER and better, with special guest Kim Churchill performing an awesome 90 minute set, plus many other talented musicians and bands to be added to the bill. There will be a handpicked variety of food, wine and beer for you to choose from throughout the day and night. The Jetty Festival is a chance for potential food vendors to showcase their talents and flavours to over 1,500 hungry people. Sound good? If you would like an application, please email Natalie and Nicci at

Are you a food vendor or food van? The Jetty Festival are looking for you! We are offering a fantastic opportunity, on Saturday 24th November from 12pm until 8pm at the Jetty Foreshore. thejettyfoodandwinefestival@gmail.com Early bird tickets are on sale NOW! General Admission: $20 + booking fee FOCUS VIP Marquee: $60 + booking fee (100 only) Includes: • Private bar • Cheese platter on arrival • Reserved seat/table • Private toilets • Private marquee with shade • FOCUS VIP Table of 10 - $550 + booking fee (10 only) Tickets available from www.stickytickets.com.au Coffs Coast focus 33

Calling Foodies A L L

FROM PADDOCK TO PLATE

FoodCon 2018 is a unique agrifood industry event, organised by Coﬀs Harbour City Council. It’s designed for the key players across the food value chain on the Mid North Coast to connect with each other, showcase products and services, and to collaborate and inspire the future direction for our region’s food journey.

n 2017, changes to the format from previous Food Forum events brought together expert speakers and great local food with more “meet and mingle” networking opportunities and the hugely-successful, expanded Producers’ Expo. This new format created a winning combination, attracting more than 160 delegates - an increase in attendance of over 100% on the previous year. Connections were established from “paddock to plate” between local farmers, fishermen, producers, food businesses, retailers, wholesalers, restaurants, food tourism operators, chefs and cooks, government services, business and education providers. Fiona Barden, acting Section Leader for council’s Industry and Destination Development

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team said, “The connections and collaborations that are created by allowing people the opportunity to come together are invaluable and is what FoodCon is all about … We are excited to work with the best local food producers and providers to again create an event that is highly-valued by the industry.” COLLABORATION will be the theme for FoodCon 2018, building on the connections established at the 2017 event, and will be represented by inspirational and thoughtprovoking speakers and activities throughout the day, including sessions on regional, individual and digital collaboration, the Harvest Hook-Up “speed dating”, and thought storming ideas for working together effectively.

GET INVOLVED! Grab the spotlight to connect with your industry FoodCon 2018. Food Producers - showcase your fresh and value-added food and beverage products in the Producers’ Expo.

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DAY INCLUDE: • A great balance of informative, expert talks, and time to connect with all parts of the industry • The Producers’ Expo and Local Food Lunch, showcasing the best of our region • FREE ENTRY for those involved in any part of the agri-food industry (including students, tourism and supporting services). Please note: this is a “trade only” event and is not open to the general public.

Food Providers - highlight your restaurant, café or catering businesses by contributing a Local Food Lunch Platter. As well as being one of the focus businesses at FoodCon, you will be included on the FoodCon website, across the event social media and on email newsletters to the industry. For more info: visit foodcon.com.au or email Nicole.mclennan@chcc.nsw.gov.au or call 6648 4834.

Coffs Coast focus 35

focusinterview.

Chef Jessica Boardman manages to successfully run two local businesses: THE DIGGERS TAVERN IN BELLINGEN AND ALSO HER CATERING BUSINESS, Jessica Boardman Private Catering.

Jess

Boardman

he runs the Diggers kitchen and the catering hand in hand, which means she is always sourcing and turning over the freshest (and often local) ingredients. She really is very passionate about fine dining and prides herself on food that is not only delicious, but well presented and supplied by a friendly and professional team. Hey Jess. Tell us about your connection to the Coffs Coast. I’ve spent most of my life here, working in various restaurants in Coffs Harbour and the surrounding areas. Food has been a lifelong passion of yours. When did it all begin? I started my apprenticeship at the age of 15 and have been cooking ever since. I wanted to gain as much industry knowledge as I could, so I have moved around quite a bit and also worked in front of house and bar roles.

36 Coffs Coast focus

You recently got married yourself. After catering for so many weddings, how did you prepare for your own big day? I had my company do the catering, and they did an amazing job! I really am blessed with great staff. We had so many different elements, and they were all over it. Did you get involved with the food preparation, or did you leave it with your team? I helped with the planning and gave I LOVE MAKING specifi c instructions, THINGS FROM but other than that SCRATCH AND You run the kitchen my team took care of SUPPORTING LOCAL at the Diggers Tavern everything (even the SUPPLIERS, GETTING in Bellingen and 150 macaroons for the THE FRESHEST also have a catering favours!) I certainly put INGREDIENTS I CAN. business. How do find the pressure on for this juggling both roles? one. We had a grazing They work seamlessly table, canapés, desserts together, and I’m lucky and a wood fire pizza to have a dual business like this to bounce the station, plus a bar. I wouldn’t have had it any catering and in-house work off each other. I other way; it was lovely having them there. have one team, and we all work together to What would you say are some of your complete in house work and catering jobs. signature dishes, or what style of food Everyone has their role, and it works perfectly. do you most enjoy cooking? What sort of events do you usually cater I personally love Italian cookery, making for? my own fettucine, ravioli, tortellini, as well Pretty much anything. Weddings are as their desserts like tiramisu, cannoli, the most popular, we do private tents at semifreddo, panna cotta, granita. the races, private parties (birthdays, baby All fine dining styles of cooking, delicate showers), business lunches and Christmas food and things I can make look vibrant and parties, woodfire pizza stalls at festivals, beautiful on the plate. degustation and three course private dinners I love making things from scratch and for small groups. supporting local suppliers, getting the

freshest ingredients I can. How important is fresh produce to you in your meals? Super important! I use the freshest ingredients I can, and this is one of the benefits to having the restaurant as well as the catering company; we get a high turnover of ingredients and can order fresh nearly every day. Not only are fresh fruit and vegetables important, but so are the meats and seafood I use; our sources are the freshest for seafood and meats and are of a high quality. Do you work with local suppliers? The best I can. Sometimes you must outsource to get the things you need, but for the most part I support local. Do you have any particular goals for yourself and your businesses for the future? So many! I would like to have my own wedding venue, hopefully near our beautiful home. I already have the spot picked out where I want it built. I love catering for wedding days; it is so nice to be a part of that special moment for couples. The whole experience is so happy. A production kitchen is on the list; soon we will be too busy for the tavern, and I will need more space to prepare food for the businesses. I would also be interested in becoming semi self-sustainable by growing a lot of my own produce and speciality items such as micro herbs. Thanks Jess.

The Coramba Hotel Brett and Sandy, the new owners of the Coramba Hotel, are thrilled to have Brad on board as their new chef - and the feedback they have received so far is amazing. Brad has worked previously at Hervey Bay RSL, Jupiter's Casino and Versace's and has a wealth of experience. Brad creates standard $12 weekly specials, standard $15 weekend specials (including a delicious surf 'n' turf), offers additional daily lunch and dinner specials and is always changing up the menu. The bistro menu will also offer more vegetarian options soon, but we will still have all the normal pub favourites! The bistro is open from 12pm 'til 2:30pm for lunch, and 5:30pm 'til 8:30pm for dinner, seven days a week. Our talented bar staff also prepare appetising hot dogs and pizza, and these are available all day, every day. In other words ... we offer hot food options for our entire trading hours! Just to recap, see below for the rest of October's gigs, where you can relax and enjoy the stunning views in an old fashioned pub atmosphere: Sat NIGHT, 20th Oct Phat Tracta from 7pm. Sun 21st Oct Richie Williams from 2pm. Sat DAY & NIGHT, 27th Oct Halloween theme - kids during day and adults at night (karaoke/DJ at night). Sun 28th Oct Vanessa Lea and Roadtrain from 2pm.

Coffs Coast focus 37

focusinterview.

Eskimo

Hoodoo Gurus You Am I

Eskimo Joe The Superjesus British India The Getaway Plan Scott Darlow

SUN JAN 27th Westport Park Port Macquarie Tickets from

au underthesouthernstars.com. ticketmaster.com.au | 136 100 In person at

e Glasshouse | The Beach Hous

38 Coffs Coast focus

Under the Southern Stars

’90s Rock ‘n’ Roll fans are in for a real treat with the line up of this year’s Under the Southern Stars event. FOCUS caught up with Kav from Eskimo Joe and chatted about their last 21 years in music, his new solo album and of course, Under the Southern Stars.

i Kav. This year am a couple of years later with an actual marks 21 years in album completed. It’s a much mellower music for you guys. sound. Eskimo Joe has become this Rock You’ve come a long ’n’ Roll beast; it’s not where it started, way since Ruby but it certainly is where it is now, but this Wednesday, which album is much more gentle ... kind of is still my fave Eskimo Joe song. sit down with a glass of wine and do a What have been some highlights, or puzzle in your library kind of album. what song is a paramount moment How do you feel you’ve developed for you throughout this time? as a band over the years to where From doing EPs, which was just us you are now? playing around and playing as loud as we Well first, it’s always been about trying could in the jam room and writing songs to write really great songs, so we just sit on the go, going down and really into Girl is where work on the great we started to take structure of songs. ourselves seriously But for us, it’s also as songwriters. vital to be challengPLAYING BIG ROCK ’N’ ROLL It wasn’t until A ing ourselves all FESTIVALS IS ALWAYS A Song is a City and the time, and the JOY; THERE HASN’T BEEN A especially the song way we do that is GREAT TOURING FESTIVAL IN From the Sea that we never really stay THAT STYLE SINCE THE BIG I really felt like we in the same place DAY OUT, AND WITH THESE came of age and sonically, so every KINDS OF THINGS WE GET TO that song, despite album we try to FEEL THAT FEELING AGAIN. all the big radio push ourselves and songs we’ve had evolve and change, since, has stood throw new musical the test of time spanners in the ... Especially when we play it live; it’s works, and that’s one of the reasons I did still just a great moment and never gets a solo record as well - to challenge myself boring. creatively. Tell us about your latest release, your I think it’s an ever evolving thing; I solo record All Your Devotion, which really hope we get to jump back in the you released in September. studio again sometime next year and get All Your Devotion is something I’ve another record together - and that would been working on for almost four years. be a really interesting thing, because At the end of 2013 we released a record Eskimo Joe’s last record was quite called Wastelands and I sat down with experimental. We really tried not to the guys and said, I love doing this, but I stick to any formulas, and I imagine if really want to do a solo record and take we came back together to do another my time doing it, because I want to put album, it would be a really simplistic, out a quality piece of music and not just organic sounding record. rush an album. So we did that, and here I Twenty-one years of music and the

three of you are still very much a tight knit group. What’s the secret? I think having a good formula as far as your chemistry with each other goes. It’s just like being in any relationship; if you get together with someone and the chemistry isn’t quite right, then after your honeymoon period you pretty much don’t want to look at each other ever again. With us, we’ve always had really great chemistry, whether it be on stage or in the studio or just hanging out with each other - it’s always been really good like that. We’ve had lots of serious band meetings over the years, where we’ve talked about people’s feelings etc. so we’ve had to communicate immensely to keep that camaraderie alive. We’re all older now - we’re not as embroiled and as enmeshed in each other’ lives, but we still enjoy each other’s company, which I think is the main secret to our success. You’re playing Under the Southern Stars, which is becoming a festival for our most iconic artists. What do you love about playing shows like this? Watching a bunch of the other great bands that are playing like Hoodoo Gurus, You Am I, Jebediah, Superjesus - they’re all really cool bands. Playing big Rock ’n’ Roll festivals is always a joy; there hasn’t been a great touring festival in that style since the Big Day Out, and with these kinds of things we get to feel that feeling again. It also means you get to roll into new towns and to play to a bunch of people who haven’t seen us play in a long time. Having a fantastic day is what we look forward to. Thanks Kav.

Coffs Coast focus 39

Coffs

GIG GUIDE

1ST NOVEMBER Daniel Hopkins - Element Bar

2ND NOVEMBER Xpress - Park Beach Bowling Club Katie Brooke + DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Element Bar Les Misérables - Jetty Theatre Top Shelf - Sawtell RSL

3RD NOVEMBER Magic Mojo - Park Beach Bowling Club Brad Ross - Toormina Hotel DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey

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Chris Wiggins - Element Bar Justin Standley - Sawtell RSL

4TH NOVEMBER Katie Brookes - Coramba Hotel Madison Kat + DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey Madelyn - Element Bar

6TH NOVEMBER Melb Cup lunch - Coramba Hotel Melbourne Cup Lunch - Coffs Harbour Racing Club

7TH NOVEMBER Vena Klymo - Element Bar

8TH NOVEMBER Peter Barry - Element Bar The Merger - Jetty Theatre

9TH NOVEMBER Bad Sneakers - Park Beach Bowling Club Jess Swilks + DJ Little - Hoey Moey Damion Towner - Element Bar

10TH NOVEMBER Korfside Jazz Band - Park Beach Bowling Club Brad Ross - Toormina Hotel DJ Little - Hoey Moey Jaie Drieberg - Element Bar

11TH NOVEMBER

22ND NOVEMBER

Who’s Charlie - Coramba Hotel Marshall Okell Band - Hoey Moey Brenden Jenssen - Element Bar Lucky Starr - Sawtell RSL

Josh Needs - Element Bar

14TH NOVEMBER Mardi Wilson - Element Bar

15TH NOVEMBER Yhan Leal - Element Bar The Animals - Sawtell RSL

16TH NOVEMBER Shekinah and Rowland - Park Beach Bowling Club Madelyn Duo + DJ Freddy Lee Hoey Moey Chris Grieve - Element Bar 2 way street - Sawtell RSL

17TH NOVEMBER Mexican theme night with DJ Coramba Hotel Connecting Souls - Park Beach Bowling Club Salt - Toormina Hotel DJ Bisho - Hoey Moey Benny Black - Element Bar

18TH NOVEMBER Madelyn - Coamba Hotel Electrik Lemonade + DJ Helmy Hoey Moey

21ST NOVEMBER Pablo Blitzer - Element Bar

23RD NOVEMBER Tahlia Matherson - Park Beach Bowling Club Ryan Brooker + DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey Dean Sharkey - Element Bar Quick Fix - Sawtell RSL

24TH NOVEMBER Top Shelf - Park Beach Bowling Club Phat Tratca - Toormina Hotel DJ Wazza - Hoey Moey Manoa - Element Bar Festival Of Halls - Jetty Theatre Jetty Festival - Jetty Foreshore

25TH NOVEMBER Jamesy - Coramba Hotel Mason Rack Band - Hoey Moey Josh Matheson - Element Bar The Drive Ins - Sawtell RSL

28TH NOVEMBER Vena Klymo - Element Bar

29TH NOVEMBER Jesse Morris - Element Bar Westwind: Djalu’s Legacy - Jetty Theatre

30TH NOVEMBER Tangle - Park Beach Bowling Club The Funk Thieves + DJ Freddy Lee - Hoey Moey Mischa Tanashevich - Element Bar

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K e n n a r d s

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IT’S THE SHOWDOWN OF THE DECADE! MANY YEARS HAVE PASSED SINCE THE FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (WRC) WAS FOUGHT DOWN TO THE LAST EVENT OF THE ANNUAL GLOBAL TOUR. THAT THE FINAL ROUND THIS YEAR WILL BE STAGED ON THE COFFS COAST AT KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA IS A HUGE, UNEXPECTED BONUS FOR FANS OF THE WORLD’S TOUGHEST INTERNATIONAL MOTORSPORT SERIES.

t started on the streets of Monte-Carlo in January, cut a swathe of excitement across many parts of Europe, plus Central and South America and even the Middle East. Now audiences around the world and in Australia will be watching a unique finale set in this beautiful part of New South Wales. Apart from the thrill of seeing superhuman drivers ply their amazing skill at high speed on narrow forest tracks, the benefits Rally Australia and the WRC bring to the region are easy to appreciate. Why such anticipation? When the cover photo for this edition of FOCUS was shot earlier this year, the two drivers who had slugged it out all season, five-time champion Sébastien Ogier and Thierry Neuville, seemed set to decide the prestigious drivers’ title between them. Then suddenly, a quietly-spoken driving dervish named Ott Tänak made it a three-way fight, with consecutive victories in Finland, Germany and Turkey. The contest was electrified - the ledger of championship points is balanced so finely, no driver can win before Australia. And there’s another highlight in 2018: the CAMS Australian Rally Championship is also down to the wire and will be fought out between four of the country’s most talented young pilots. This will be the 27th Rally Australia and the

42 Coffs Coast focus

seventh hosted on the Coffs Coast with the support of the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, regional councils and commercial partners led by Kennards Hire. It’s found a natural home here. The temporarily-closed shire roads and roads made available by the Forestry Corporation of NSW offer a worthy challenge for the WRC drivers and a scenic backdrop for live TV coverage to 150 international markets. Putting together a rally route of just over 300 km involves officials driving many times that distance in surveys over many months. The aim is to find not only great roads, but also ones that have easy access at the ends and from the sides for sporting officials, emergency services, media and spectators, plus the best possible viewing locations. Even with a once-a-year visit, rally drivers over time become familiar with the roads used for the special stages, so organisers have created new challenges for the 2018 Kennards Hire Rally Australia. All but eight of the 24 competition stages covering 318 kilometres are new or changed, using different roads or sections of former roads in reverse direction. Wedding Bells 18, the points-paying Power Stage and last stage of the rally and the WRC

presentation ceremony season, will be run in Kennards Hire Rally also will be relocated to reverse, with a longer, Australia is a huge event the NSW Forests Rally higher jump at the popular and takes a huge team to Village, from where it will NSW Forests Rally Village. run it. Around 1000 people, be televised live around Saturday’s 1.97 km Raleigh the world. stage will be run twice mostly volunteer officials, The competitors’ for the first time, while keep the rally running on service park, now known the 28.84 km Argents Hill time and safe. They’ll love as Pedders Rally Central, Reverse on Saturday will it if you thank them for returns to C.ex Coffs be the longest, using more their contribution. International Stadium than half the roads of the and will be a free-toformer Nambucca stage, enter hub of activity hailed as one of the most throughout the weekend. challenging anywhere in Many attractions will be on offer, including a the WRC. video super-screen showing constant live action The Destination NSW Super Special Stage from the stages, trade displays, souvenir sales, on Friday and Saturday evenings is always a food and drink and the lively Meet-the-Crews spectating highlight. Nowhere else in the WRC interview sessions with the leading drivers and does a competition stage run between a harbour their managers. and the ocean, as it does on the Coffs Harbour The X-factor at Rally Australia is the warmth of Jetty Foreshores. This year features a water splash the welcome. The teams from Britain, Germany, and a second jump. The images will be priceless. France, Finland, Italy and other parts love coming What else is new? The always-popular to the Coffs Coast, because they can see readily Rally Show and Ceremonial Start on Thursday that the resident and business community is afternoon moves from the Coffs main street to proud of its home and values the benefits the the Jetty Foreshores, where drivers and their cars WRC brings. will turn out to meet their fans. Sunday’s podium

K e n n a r d s

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THE SCENE IS SET FOR A MAGNIFICENT WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP FINALE!

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THE TITLE CONTENDERS ARE ...

SÉBASTIEN OGIER - 34, FRANCE M-SPORT FORD WORLD RALLY TEAM (FORD FIESTA)

It’s extraordinary that the coveted drivers’ title has been held for 14 years straight by Frenchmen named Séb. The incomparable Sébastien Loeb won the first nine and when he retired and former teammate Ogier switched to the dominant Volkswagen team, a further four were bagged. Ogier did it again last year with his new team, M-Sport, but 2018 has been by far his toughest challenge. Victories in Monte-Carlo, Mexico, Corsica to his credit, Ogier was nonetheless third in the standings until he pulled off a brilliant triumph on Wales Rally GB to be a dangerously-close second to Neuville. Determined, ruthless and hugely ambitious, the former ski instructor and professional boules player knows how to win when the chips are down.

OTT TÄNAK - 30, ESTONIA TOYOTA GAZOO RACING WORLD RALLY TEAM (TOYOTA YARIS)

Although he won Rally Argentina, Tänak was a distant third in the standings until he returned from the European summer break with fire in his belly. Consecutive wins followed in Finland, Germany and Turkey and catapulted him into the middle of the title fight. He utterly dominated Wales Rally GB, until mechanical damage stopped his Toyota Yaris. Tänak has been a sensation since switching from M-Sport to Toyota at the beginning of 2018, and his performances also have helped the Finnish-based, Japanese-owned team take the lead in the manufacturers’ competition. Intense and blisteringly quick, he won his first WRC event only last year and came home third in the final standings. On Rally Australia, his driving will be absolutely committed and promises a breath-taking experience for fans.

FI RS T RA LLY?

HE RE ’S HO W TO FO LLOW IT

After the Ceremonial Start on Thursday, Kennards Hire Rally Australia will be run across 24 stages of varying lengths on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The course is run mostly on temporarily-closed public roads, under extremely tight safety controls. Cars crewed by a driver and co-driver run one at a time against the clock in predetermined order, and the one with the shortest total time at the end is the winner. The world championship is decided on points accumulated for placings from 1st to 10th at each round. Co-drivers don’t actually drive, but call out instructions to the driver through helmet-to-helmet intercom. Called pace notes, these instructions are worked out during two days of reconnaissance in non-rally cars on open roads at road-legal speeds - the first time a driver tackles the stage at speed and in his rally car is when the start light goes green, so accurate notes are vital for speed and safety. Think of it like the Bathurst 1000 qualifying shootout run 24 times in a row! Amazingly, different drivers in different cars competing in constantly-changing road conditions often set stage times just tenths of a second apart. The bravery and skill of WRC drivers will leave you wideeyed and speechless!

THIERRY NEUVILLE - 30, BELGIUM HYUNDAI SHELL MOBIS WORLD RALLY TEAM (HYUNDAI I20 COUPE)

Chasing the first championship for him and his Korean-owned team, Neuville has enjoyed his best season so far. The Belgian won in Sweden, Portugal and Sardinia (Italy) and narrowly led the points standings when this article was written after round 11 of 13. Last season Neuville pushed Sébastien Ogier all the way in the race for the drivers’ crown. A failure to score in Germany and Spain ultimately proved his undoing, but four wins was his best return in a WRC season. Cool as a cucumber, with a winning mix of youth, raw speed and natural talent, the 2017 Kennards Hire Rally Australia winner is determined 2018 will be his year.

CITROËN TOTAL ABU DHABI WORLD RALLY TEAM (CITROËN C3)

Although Citroën’s performances haven’t got it into the championship race, don’t discount the French team for an upset result - it’s got nothing to lose from a win-or-bust effort by its drivers Mads Østberg and Craig Breen. It’s their last event before Séb Ogier arrives as team leader for 2019 - 2020. Coffs Coast focus 43

h i r e

Ralrallyia K e n n a r d s

Aueestand do] [S

HEADING ALONG TO THE KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA THIS YEAR? HERE IS AN OVERVIEW OF EACH OF THE EVENTS AND ATTRACTIONS.

THE FIA WORLD RALLY CHAMPIONSHIP (WRC) IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST

DAILY SPECTATOR GUIDE

DIVERSE, EXCITING, AND GRUELLING MOTORSPORT COMPETITIONS. ALWAYS SPECTACULAR, DRAMATIC AND UNPREDICTABLE, THE WRC DEMANDS DRIVERS SHOW SKILL, COURAGE, PASSION, ENDURANCE AND THE ABILITY TO ADAPT TO

TICKETS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL SPECTATOR POINTS AND CAN BE PURCHASED

CONSTANTLY-CHANGING CONDITIONS. KENNARDS HIRE RALLY AUSTRALIA IS THE

VIA TICKETEK OR AT THE GATE (CASH ONLY). VISIT WWW.RALLYAUSTRALIA.COM.

AUSTRALIAN LEG OF THE WRC AND THE CLOSING ROUND OF THE SEASON. COFFS

AU FOR ALL TICKET INFORMATION. PRINT OUT YOUR DAILY SPECTATOR GUIDE

COAST WILL HOST THIS ROUND ON NOVEMBER 15-18, 2018. THE RALLY SHARES

WITH MAPS AND DIRECTIONS TO ALL SPECTATING AREAS.

IN THE MASSIVE GLOBAL COVERAGE THE WRC ATTRACTS, THROUGH TELEVISION AND OTHER TRADITIONAL MEDIA, PLUS ONLINE VIA ITS WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS. IN 2017, TV COVERAGE BROADCAST TIME TOTALLED 828 HOURS AND ATTRACTED MORE THAN 41 MILLION VIEWERS IN MORE THAN 150 MARKETS. AROUND 250 MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES FROM AROUND THE WORLD ATTEND.

FREE ATTRACTIONS AND SPECIAL EVENTS RALLY SHOW AND CEREMONIAL START Moves to the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores. Thursday 15th Nov from 4pm — and it’s FREE! Lots of family friendly entertainment, plus night food markets. Check out all the cars on display, meet the drivers, get selfies and autographs and see the cars drive over the ramp to officially start their weekend journey.

PEDDERS RALLY CENTRAL: COFFS COAST SPORT And Leisure Park, Stadium Drive, Coffs Harbour. Parking available Open 7am – 7.30pm Thursday to Sunday. The equivalent of racing’s pits, packed with action throughout the rally. Watch crews repair and replenish cars and drivers during periodic returns from the competition stages – chat with drivers and crews. This family-friendly attraction is a “must see”! 44 Coffs Coast focus

• Meet the teams here on Friday and Saturday nights after the Super Special Stage @ 7.00pm • Watch all the action on the big screen • Food /coffee available all day, public bar open from 12pm • Visitor Information ‘pop-up’. Souvenirs and Merchandise available to purchase

DESTINATION NSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE Don’t miss this twilight racing on Friday and Saturday. This is a fantastic opportunity to view the cars up close whilst they race around the beautiful Coffs Harbour foreshores. There will be lots of free family entertainment with Mechanical Bull and Mechanical Surfboard rides, Jumping Castle and the not to be missed performance by ShowtTime FMX, these stunt motorbike riders will have the crowd in awe of their death defying stunts. There will be food and drink available. Gates Open 2pm. Adult Tickets $29 and kids over 12 years $10.

FRIDAY

SUNDAY

FLOODED GUMS SPECTATOR POINT Cnr Sherwood Forest Rd, Bucca (21 km NW of Coffs Harbour. First cars - 8:04am and 12:33pm).

BRUXNER PARK SPECTATOR POINT Intersection of Mt Coramba & Bruxner Park Rds, Bucca (9 km NW. First cars - 7:43am and 11:51am). Wheelchair accessible.

BUSHMANS SPECTATOR POINT Cnr Bushmans Range & Coldwater Creek Rds, Lowanna (21 km W. First cars - 8:47am and 1:16pm).

BLUEBERRY SPECTATOR POINT Mardells Rd, Bucca (21 km NW. First cars 7:46am and 11:54am). Wheelchair accessible with assistance.

DESTINATION NSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE Coffs Harbour Jetty – gates open 2pm. First car due 4.30pm, last car due 7.30pm.

NSW FORESTS RALLY VILLAGE Cnr Flooded Gum and Sherwood Forest Rds, Bucca (15 km NW. Fist cars - 8:40am and 1:18pm). This is Rally Australia’s iconic "Power" stage, tight and fast, and the final stage for 2018. Featuring a high speed jump, water splash, and the Podium Presentation.

SATURDAY NORTH ARM SPECTATOR POINT Cnr North Arm & Graces Rds, Argents Hill (67 km S. First cars - 7:14am and 12:14pm). Wheelchair accessible. SIMPSONS RIDGE SPECTATOR POINT Cnr Simpsons Ridge & South Arm Rds, Bowraville (60 km SW. First cars - 7:56am and 1:07pm). TALARM HALL SPECTATOR POINT Cnr Talarm and Welshs Creek Rds, Talarm (63 km S. First cars - 8:01am and 1:12pm). RACEWAY SPECTATOR POINT Raleigh International Raceway. Valley Rd, Raleigh. First Car - 9:47am and 2:58pm. DESTINATION NSW SUPER SPECIAL STAGE Coffs Harbour Jetty – gates open 2pm. First car due 4.30pm, last car due 7.30pm.

• Watch the action on the big screens • Celebrate the winners

RALLY DAYTRIPPING GUIDE Find info on what to do on the way to various Rally spectator points - activities, attractions, beach and outdoor adventures, eating out and more: visitcoffscoast.com.au/rally-daytripping-guide

Free Attractions at Rally Australia There are lots of free attractions at this years Kennards Hire Rally Australia. Take a break from forest spectating and enjoy our free attractions. RALLY SHOW & CEREMONIAL START

Thursday 4pm – Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshores World Rally drivers are among the friendliest and most accessible sportsmen you’ll meet and they’ll all be on deck for the traditional Rally Show and Ceremonial Start. Check out all the cars on display, meet the drivers, get selfies and autographs and see the cars drive over the ramp to officially start their weekend racing.

PEDDERS RALLY CENTRAL

Open 7.00am – 7.30pm Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday Pedders Rally Central is the equivalent of racing’s pits and is a must-see attraction. Pedders Rally Central is packed with action throughout the rally. The World Rally Cars arrive for their midday service one at a time at short intervals and they are allowed 30 minutes before they must leave for the afternoon’s stages. The major WRC team’s setup impressive service bays to repair and replenish cars and drivers during periodic returns from the competition special stages. A service break is virtually a race in its own right – you will see the brilliant WRC mechanics change a clutch, gearbox or entire suspension in mere minutes to keep their crews in the rally. And while the mechanics are wielding the spanners, you might find the drivers and co-drivers coming out to meet you for a friendly chat! Pedders Rally Central will have displays and activities the entire weekend and is family friendly. See you there! 3 DAY PASS $99 Gives you access to all hinterland/forest spectator points on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. It also gives you access to the Special Super Stage on Friday and Saturday afternoons and Raleigh Raceway spectator point on Saturday.

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Spectacular A T T R A C T I O N S

Take the time to experience the vibrant coastal city of Coffs Harbour, to the spectacular vistas of the Southern and Northern Beaches, through lush farmland and forests of the Western Hinterland, to the beautiful Bellingen plateau and highlands of Dorrigo.

rom harbour to hinterland, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite “play, taste and explore” experiences as you travel around the region to the Rally spectator points. Day 1. Northern Beaches and Western Hinterland Take the family to Sealy Lookout, with breathtaking views from the mountains to the sea. You can book into Treetops Adventure Park, where they can slide on flying foxes from tree to tree and enjoy the vista from 15 metres about the forest floor. Drive through the scenic countryside to experience the award winning Two Tails Winery and Velvets Restaurant, showcasing local produce. Refresh at Woolgoolga Beach with a swim or book a surfing lesson. There are great cafés dishing up local fresh food with good coffee, or you can order some takeaway fish and chips to eat overlooking Woolgoolga Beach or Headland. Day 2. Southern Beaches - Raleigh Raceway For an action packed day, stop off at one of the fabulous cafés in Sawtell for some delicious picnic food supplies, then head to the Butterfly House at Bonville, the only one of its kind in NSW. Travel further south to 46 Coffs Coast focus

Hungry Head Headland, located just south of the charming seaside village of Urunga, where the beach still exists in its natural setting. Alternatively, make a swimming stop at the picturesque Boambee Beach - here you can fulfil your dream of riding along a deserted beach on a horse from HWH Stables if you book ahead. Day 3. Bruxner Park and Moonee Beach Head North to Bruxner Park Road, surrounded by blueberry farms, to the Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout. Grab a coffee and a sweet treat made with native lemon myrtle from the Nyanggan Gapi Café van. Continue along the highway to Moonee Beach Nature Reserve, and Look At Me Now Headland, with fantastic ocean view headland walk and home to a large mob of eastern grey kangaroos. For a unique 100% authentic cultural experience, book a tour with Wajaana Yaam Adventure Tours, with guides who are Gumbaynggirr people (the local Aboriginal people) who have strong familial ties to the local country. There are great places to grab a meal or snack at Moonee Market shopping centre, including the fabulous kid-friendly Moonee Beach Tavern nearby. coffscoast.com.au/rally-daytripping-guide #RallyAustralia #CoffsCoast

WITH TEGAN SWAN OF WOOLGOOLGA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

History Buff? Are you a

Did you know Woolgoolga has a Heritage Walk?

he project was the brainchild Turon Parade or from the glass case on Beach St, of long-time Northern Beaches just east of the NAB corner. resident Don Clinch and then After you finish exploring the past, swing on out Rotary President Norm Michener to the lookout area on Woolgoolga Headland for and was undertaken as a some of the best views on the East Coast and then collaboration between Rotary, check out one of the wonderful cafés or eateries, Lions, the Woolgoolga and or grab a take away and Northern Beaches Chamber of enjoy ocean views at the Commerce and Coffs Council. Beach Reserve … a great There are 12 panels around the excursion for Coffs Coast township, depicting various residents and their visitors You can walk the walk aspects of the town’s interesting from further afield. If if you have lots of time history, including its time as a you want to see more, and energy, or you can timber town, early settlers, the check out Woolgoolga drive it, with lots of first school, the jetty that used Art Gallery’s local art and parking available near to be there, maritime history, craft, or take a peek inside each panel. Pick up a the arrival of the Sikhs and one of the Sikh temples brochure to guide you at the first Sikh temple, the old or check out the shops for the Visitor Information historic Sea View Hotel, and our gifts, clothing or surf and Centre in Boundary St ... Gumbaynggir heritage. swimwear. Pop in to the Woolgoolga is an interesting Visitor Information Centre place. You can walk the walk for brochures on other if you have lots of time and attractions and activities energy, or you can drive it, with lots of parking in the area. And if your thirst for history is not available near each panel. Pick up a brochure to quenched, check out the associated website www. guide you at the Visitor Information Centre in woolgoolgaheritagewalk.org for more information, Boundary St or from the Woolgoolga Art Gallery in personal histories and photos.

Are you a

•'f�'..

Forestry Corporation of-NSW · ,:.-:,,.,�-,.,._�:,.-r.-.. � is prou� to b� sponsoring t�e 2018 World'�a',U,.f:,, ,,� Champ1onsh1ps Kennards H1re Rally Austraha. -- · · · ,.. "..""'...� Come visit our #visitnswforests marquee at NSW Forests Rally Village on Sunday 18th November for giveaways and activities for the kids.

While in the area, why not see what State Forests have to offer? Forest Sky Pier at Sealy Lookout and Korora Lookout have breathtaking views from the mountains to the sea. Take a leisurely stroll to Korora Lookout and immerse yourself in the Gumbaynggirr Dreaming story of Gumgali, the black goanna. Walking tracks take you through the lush rainforest of the Orara East State Forest or experience the thrill of Tree Tops Adventure Park. So much to see and do in NSW State Forests, dogs are welcome, and best of all, it's free!

I] @ C;J CJ #VisitNSWForests www.forestrycorporation.eom.au/visit

Forestry Corporation Coffs Coast focus 47

focusinterview.

We spoke to Grant George, a member of the Management Committee of the Classic Cars at C.ex Coffs, about the upcoming Classic Car show on November 11. The show will run from 10:30am - 2:30pm, and GRANT GIVES US A RUN-DOWN ON WHAT WE CAN EXPECT TO SEE, WHO IS INVOLVED WITH THE EVENT, and what started his love affair with classic cars.

i Grant. Could you give us a bit of a run down on the 2018 Classic Cars at C.ex Coffs Show? Following the success of last year's show, this cornerstone event in the C.ex Coffs Sports Touring and Classic Car Club calendar promises to be better again. A broad cross section of approximately eighty classic cars built in Australia, Great Britain, United States, Europe and the Far East dating back as far as the 1940s will be on display. Several members have acquired classic cars during the last twelve months that will complement the already established array of classics. This year's celebrated marque will be “The Glorious Years of The British Motor Corporation” that encompasses such brands as Austin, Leyland, MG, Morris, Riley and Wolseley. Special emphasis will be paid to the iconic Mini, with many variants on display. This car certainly remodelled motoring throughout the world. The show’s participants and visitors will be fortunate enough to hear first hand accounts of the British Motor Corporation's exploits in Australian motor sport throughout the '50s, '60s and '70s by former Works Drivers who successfully competed at the highest level. Marvel at their victories and rare memorabilia that will be on display. The Coffs Harbour Veteran and Vintage Car Club and Coffs Harbour and District Motorcycle Restorers Club have been invited to include some of their most rare and finest examples. 48 Coffs Coast focus

Plenty of catering and live music throughout the day will add to the enjoyment. What are some of the cars that will be on display? Brand names such as Austin, Morris, MG, Bentley, Morgan, Holden, Ford, Chrysler, Buick, Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Jaguar, Citroen, Peugeot, Nissan will be displayed. Our special display inside the C.ex Coffs Club is not to be missed. How long has this annual event been running? This event commenced at the C.ex Coffs Club in 2015 and is now acknowledged as a must see motoring event leading into the festivities, but not directly associated with the 2018 World Rally Championship. How many people attend the event each year? Each year this event has continued to grow, with participants that numbered close to one hundred in 2017, plus visitors throughout the day approaching one thousand. How does Classic Cars compare with other events around Australia? Per head of capita, the broad cross section of classic cars showcased makes this comparable to any major capital city event. Friendly owners will be on hand in a relaxed environment and only too willing to talk about the history their unique vehicles - some relaying the trials and tribulations of restoration, whilst others will no doubt have many motoring experiences to pass on. There is no better way to learn about these rarely seen vehicles

at C.ex Coffs

FRIENDLY OWNERS WILL BE ON HAND IN A RELAXED ENVIRONMENT AND ONLY TOO WILLING TO TALK ABOUT THE HISTORY THEIR UNIQUE VEHICLES.

from yesteryear. What is one of the cars you are most looking forward to seeing and why? That is a very difficult question to answer, as new classics appear every year. I share the passion for all of our cars and fully appreciate the effort each individual commits to maintaining them and preparing them for such shows as the Classic Cars at C.ex Coffs. At the end of the day, we are custodians that are fortunate enough to share our classics with other like-minded people. When did your interest in classic cars start? My interest in classic cars commenced in my junior school days, wiling away too many hours admiring many an MG TC, Austin Healy, Ford Pilot, Jaguar XK120, Riley and Holden that used to zip around our neighborhood. In 1960, I became totally consumed with a neighbor’s brand new yellow Porsche 356 Coupe. There was nothing else like that funny noisy little German car that was half the size of other cars of the day with the motor in the wrong end, yet went like the wind and handled well. To this day, I remain convinced the owner used to give it "extra stick" purely for my benefit. Its acceleration left an indelible memory for many years. I use to spend hours sketching that car and dreaming of one day owning one.

The dream eventually materialised, and I continue to treasure it. Who would have thought that little car would lead to the Porsche marque continuing to be recognised as the manufacturer of the most successful competition cars decades later! Other than the vehicles on display, what other stands and services will be at the event? Each year, the show continues to attract organisations primarily from the Coffs region that provide quality goods and services. This year is no exception, with 2AirFM 109.4, NRMA, Coffs Ecoblast and Ferntree Signs. We have been fortunate enough to have received support from numerous businesses and organisations that are promoting our event by displaying our poster What is the C.ex Coffs Sports Touring and Classic Car Club? The C.ex Coffs Sports Touring and Classic Car Club is an Intra Club of the C.ex Coffs. The objectives of the club are to promote, foster and encourage the understanding, restoration and use of sports, touring and classic cars. Through this association, we receive support from C.ex Coffs in various areas of our club’s activities, such as the Classic Cars at C.ex Coffs Show. Thanks Grant.

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W I T H D A N I E L H E AT H E R O F C O F F S C O A S T E V E N T S

events+ UPDATE

On the International Stage As the Coﬀs Coast gets ready to be showcased across the globe, our region has been recognised as a world-class destination for events.

ur region hosts a vast mix of festivals and events from international, national, state, regional and local opportunities, each offering a different experience for visitors and residents across culture, arts, sport, food, music and community. For the fourth consecutive year, Coffs Harbour has won the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA) World Festival and Event City Award. The globally-acclaimed award means that the Coffs Coast is once again ranked alongside some of the world’s greatest cities.

media and online. More than 41 million viewers across 150 different countries will enjoy live TV broadcasts of the event - all eyes of the international motorsport community will be on the Coffs Coast. Always spectacular, dramatic and unpredictable, the Rally showcases the skill, courage, passion and endurance of the drivers, as well as the spectacular landscapes of our region. From the start on Thursday at the Jetty, to the pit crew action at Pedders Rally Central, and from the exhilarating Super Special Stages, to the podium finish on Sunday afternoon, we encourage you to purchase your tickets, or get out and enjoy some of the exciting, family-friendly and free Rally events close to home.

This exciting achievement recognises the success and growth of festivals and events in the REGIONAL SPORTS This exciting achievement area, the diverse range HUB recognises the success and of events supported Exciting news was growth of festivals and events in by the community, announced recently, with the area, the diverse range and the economic Coffs Harbour securing of events supported by contribution events $10M from the NSW the community, and the make to our region. Government to commence economic contribution events It also acknowledges work on Stage 2 of the make to our region. the work of local Regional Sports Hub. groups, organisations This exciting project and individuals who will deliver three new develop and run sports fields (two synthetic and one grass); a events, the business sector that supports them new amenity block and extension to existing through sponsorship, and the different levels amenities; new car park and access road; new of government that provide funding and footpaths and cycleways connecting the Coffs assistance. Coast Sport and Leisure Park with the education R E V V I N G U P F O R R A L LY and health campuses; and a business plan and Kennards Hire Rally Australia is the Australian studies for a proposed regional indoor sports and final round of the 2018 FIA World Rally facility. Championship (WRC), one of the world’s most This, combined with the work well underway diverse, exciting, and gruelling motorsport on the upgrade of C.ex Coffs International competitions. Held on the Coffs Coast from Stadium, further cements this facility as one 15th to 18th November, this is the round where of regional Australia’s premier sporting and the World Championship will be won and the event venues. Events held at the stadium and winner crowned! surrounding grounds are generating in excess of The Australian round of the Rally attracts massive global coverage through television,

Introducing the Lazy Long Lunch Relax into Sunday afternoon at BreakFree Aanuka Beach Resort as you savour a long four course lunch and listen to laid back live tunes by Vaine Rabana overlooking Diggers Beach.

Price:

$55* per person

Date:

Sunday, 4 November 2018

Time:

1pm to 5pm

Where: Norman James Lawns Menu:

Four course lunch paired with selected wines

For bookings, call 02 66 502 547 or email Aanuka.events@breakfree.com.au *Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. Please advise dietary requirements upon booking.

$30M annually to the local economy, and this is set to grow, with more facilities coming online. Coffs Coast focus 49

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

Quadrant Australia Local travel company Quadrant Australia are offering FOCUS readers the unique opportunity to join their Ireland and UK Farm Tour, departing in July, 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-be-missed

sightseeing hot spots, such as the historic and royal sights of Bath, Killarney, Oxford and the scenic coasts of Ireland. One of the real highlights of the tour is the chance to attend The Royal Welsh Show, one of the best livestock shows in the world, where the cream of the British livestock industry will be in attendance. Afterwards, the tour travels through the cobblestone streets of quaint English towns, and the heart of the picturesque Lakes District; 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 2019, they have more than 35 tours to more than 40 countries across the globe. Their local office is located in Harbour Dr, 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

Japan Highlights. Japan is bursting at the seams with natural beauty, enchanting culture and unique experiences. It’s the contrasts in Japan that make it so exceptional.

andering the busy streets of Tokyo provides glimpses of an uncharted future. Surrounded by neon lights and pop culture, people watching in Tokyo takes on a whole new meaning. Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city is also home to fascinating history and many excellent museums and historic temples. Contrary to popular belief, Tokyo also offers a number of stunning gardens and attractive green spaces within easy reach of the city centre. Less than an hour by bullet train is the tranquil location of Hakone, where visitors can take a relaxing cruise on Lake Ashi-no in the foot hills of Mt Fuji. Get up closer with a trip on the Hakone Ropeway and aerial cable car, with spectacular views of Mt Fuji and Owakudani, where steam can be seen spurting from the volcanic activity. A few hours further down is the cultural centre of Japan, Kyoto, filled with World Heritage sites, shrines and temples, teahouses and gardens. It is true that you can lose yourself in the streets as you wander and explore the city’s gardens and monuments. Catch a glimpse of a beautiful Geisha on dusk in the Geisha quarter of Gion, made famous in Memoirs of a Geisha. If military history piques your interest, then a visit to Hiroshima is a must. Well known as the atomic bomb site, Hiroshima has reinvented itself to become a thriving seaside city with stylish atmosphere. A visit to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum is both sobering and educational. Japan is a hotbed of geothermal activity, with

50 Coffs Coast focus

over 25,000 naturally occurring mineral hot springs. They form part of the daily ritual, with locals bathing in the traditional Japanese Onsen. Japan has wonderful diverse cuisine. For much of the last decade, Tokyo, the capital of Japan, has held the record for the most Michelin starred restaurants within a city throughout the entire world, beating even Paris. The Japanese are passionate about their food and its presentation. Each plate is presented as an art form, with local and seasonal ingredients. Rice and fish form staple ingredients, and yet Australian Wagyu Beef is still highly acclaimed. Japan is rightly famed for its cuisine and gracious hospitality. A visit to Japan is possible in any season. The delicate cherry blossoms occur for a limited season in spring, and in autumn Japan is ablaze with colour. Winter however, is spectacular for all the right reasons. The days are clear and cool, with snow falling regularly across the country. Japan has a credible reputation on the world ski slope stage, where travellers come from across the globe to experience world class skiing, so if you’re looking for a winter getaway in the middle of our Australian summer, then Japan is both fascinating and intriguing. Local tour company Quadrant Australia is offering a Farmers’ Tour of Japan departing in May. If you are interested in seeing the incredible sights of Japan and being able to get off the beaten track and on to farms where you can meet the farmers and hear their stories, then contact the team at Quadrant Australia in Vernon St or visit their website: www.quadrantaustralia.com

Raven Entertainment

21 000

DJ Raven (Greg) has been spinning the decks for a number of years in the Nation’s Capital, Canberra. He recently moved to Coffs Harbour to enjoy a lifestyle change with his wife. Greg ran a successful Mobile DJ Business for nearly 20 years in Canberra and now brings this wealth of experience to the Coffs Coast. He enjoys playing before a crowd, and readily plays Rock, Party Music, ‘70’s, ‘80s and Top 40. So, if you want to turn back the clock or groove to the latest music, DJ Raven is your guy. His experience includes night clubs, corporate events, parties and weddings, and he can even run Karaoke for you. DJ Raven offers a number of equipment options, from extra speakers to strobe lights, laser lights, GOBOs and smoke machines. His standard kit includes a Pioneer DDJ SZ, together with two x JBL Speakers and effect lighting, all professional equipment which can serve up to 300 guests. To give you further peace of mind, DJ Raven also carries: • Full PPCA music licence; • $20M public liability policy; and • ABN. Further details can be viewed at www.ravenentertainment.com.au or https://www.facebook. com/DJ-Raven-445560388827452/ Alternatively, call Greg on 0411 121 579 for a free quote.

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

Coffs Coast focus 51

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Best Dressed Family

Dea Redfern, Leisa Browne

AFL Masters Race Day, Le Dain Designs Fashion Show

Sarvi, Julie

AFL Masters Race Day, Le Dain Designs Fashion Judges

Erin Jackson, Adelaide Zietsch, Kailey Pallas

Best Dressed Lady

Charles and Jane Hutchins, Jill and Alan Hankinson

Graham and Wendy Waters

Social /Scene

can’t get over the fact that people spend Christmas Day at the beach (being born overseas) let alone start preparing for Christmas festivities in late September. This month could be quite confusing, if you’re out shopping, as at the end of September through to November, all the Christmas stock is out at exactly the same time as the Halloween paraphernalia ... ridiculous! Anyway, summer along with Christmas is on its way, even though at the moment everyone has had jumpers and jackets on again! People have been walking in the store commenting that’s it’s just like Melbourne weather - autumn in the morning and spring in the afternoon! Whatever the weather, the Coffs Coast is still such an amazing place to live! Beachfront Opal Cove Resort was the place to be when a significant milestone was celebrated. The event was thrown to celebrate Baringa Private Hospital’s 40th Anniversary. The cocktail evening event guest list included VIPs, doctors, specialists, Ramsay Health executives and staff. Guests enjoyed socialising, along with entertainment and fine food. Congratulations to the team at Baringa Private Hospital - 40 years of caring for the Coffs Coast Community. The AFL Masters have just spent a week or so of enjoying an assortment of social events and sporting activities up here on the Coffs Coast.

52 Coffs Coast focus

This is only November, and so many people are already Christmas crazy!

We seem to be the place to be now and in recent years for sporting groups (along with everyone else) to come and utilise what we have to offer. The Coffs Harbour Racing Club was one of those venues. This was a day not only for the men and the ladies; it was also very much for families as well. Falling on a Tuesday, you can never judge what the numbers might be, there was certainly a crowd already arriving from the AFL Masters, but the locals and visitors arrived in droves with their families to come and enjoy a day at the races. A race day isn’t all about betting on the horses; it’s all about the simple enjoyment of being out for the day. Entertainment for the children was provided, and the bistro was open for lunch. Le Dãin Designs was hired to stage a Fashion Show for the ladies from the AFL Masters, who were having a High Tea in the afternoon. Le Dãin Designs had had a rough number of 50 to 75 guests to entertain at the show; amazingly, the ladies guest number rose to 175! A bigger Fashion Show was organised, to make it more spectacular. Models of all sizes and ages, ranging from ladies in their twenties to beautiful women in their 50s, 60s and 70s, strutted their stuff on the catwalk - casual fashions, racewear right up to a super glamorous Grande Finale! Along with the Fashion Show, there was the Le Dãin Designs Fashions on the Field, which included a section

for Best Dressed Family. A judging panel was selected (as usual) with completely non biased judges. The judges for the Day were AFL Masters Secretary of the Organising Committee Coffs Harbour - Trish Stirling and Cathy Eurell (AFL Masters National President’s wife) along with the gentlemen, those being our Coffs Harbour Racing Club’s Chairman Alan Johnson’s father Garry Johnson and Richard Hinton, who did a fabulous job! Big Day out and very successful for the Racing Club. Next race days to look forward to are the Melbourne Cup and on the 27th December is the Fashion and Family friendly Le Dãin Designs Summer Cup.

The gallery is located at Park Avenue Lane in Coffs Harbour and was opened by Andrew Fraser MP and Dr Ned Abraham, who is one of the founders of Planet Art Inc. The launch was part of the Mental Health Awareness Month. The gallery is small, but has big plans for the future. It will help to promote regional artists, including those from ethnic and indigenous backgrounds.

FOCUS attended the Sawtell Art Group’s 31st Annual Exhibition just recently. So much talent being showcased at the one time! The official opening certainly drew in a crowd; the Art Centre was literally packed to the rafters! Guests enjoyed a delicious supper selection and refreshments. There were 15 sections, with $5,350 worth of prizes. I had the privilege of presenting the People’s Choice award to amazingly talented Helen Goldsmith.

FOCUS attended the Australian Women’s Leadership Forum Coffs Harbour at the C.ex Coffs just recently - another packed out event. Talk about a room full of power! This was an allday affair, with so many inspiring guest speakers. I got to meet Tracey Spicer, who is of course the well-known reporter, advocate and author. FOCUS was the media sponsor for the event. I count myself lucky to be part of the FOCUS family - being their fashion stylist and social pages columnist I get to meet all sorts of people in all walks of life, and hearing their stories is an absolute privilege.

There were so many deserving entrants and winners, far too many to mention. Well done to one and all. Staying with art, Planet Art Inc opened its Art Gallery just recently. Planet Art Inc. is newly established and is a not-for-profit organisation.

Planet Art Inc. will see the provision of art-astherapy classes for teenagers and young adults with mental health issues, as well as people with disabilities, school age teenagers, along with the unemployed. What a giving community we have here on the Coffs Coast!

Here is to … Counting your blessings..

Carole, Le Dãin Designs.

focus_contributor

WITH CAROLE BEROS FROM LE DÃIN DESIGNS

Helen Goldsmith, Pane Charles

Marianne James, Kate Drum

Kailey Pallas, Kristen Price Pallas

Councillor Tegan Swan, Candince Torrens

Social / Scene Adelaide Zietsch, Erin Jackson

Kath Wittingham, Shellie Kelly

Sandice Llon, Anna McAfee, Karyn Sherman

Pat Millar, Lucy Johnson, Jenny Molly, Jenny Simpson

Jenny Prust, Sam Breakspear, Mel Bradbury, Amy Halliday

Kath Bear, Rose Gow

Australian Women’s Leadership Forum Coffs Harbour

Candice Torrens, Jacqui Barnett, Anne Blair, Bridge Veale

Michele Greenwood, Kristy Browne, Keryn Lawrence, Sue Devlin, Karyn Sherman

Aunty Bea Ballangary, Tracey Spicer

Linda Nolan, Jocelyn Edge, Carol Harrison, Jacqui Barnett, Jo Effeman, Maree Medway, Leah Daniels

Ellen Slater, Kyla Holley, Allison Davidson

Coffs Coast focus 53

focusinterview.

Jetty Theatre

Rachael and Ellie

Rachael McConnell and Ellie Waters are sixteen year old school students who have recently directed a musical at the Jetty Theatre.

he play is an adaptation of the classic Alice in Wonderland, and the cast was entirely junior performers aged between eight and 18. The show has been received extremely well and what the girls have achieved, between school assignments no less, is quite incredible. Hi Rachael and Ellie. Tell us about each of your connections to the Coffs Coast? Ellie: I’ve lived in Coffs Harbour for all my life. I have attended all stages of schooling here and am currently a student of Coffs Harbour Senior College in Year 11. My parents moved to this lovely coastal area from central west NSW in the 1980s; from there they built a little house on a hill with an amazing view of the beach. Rachael: I’ve lived in Coffs all my life, and the majority of my family live here as well. I am currently in Grade 10 at St. John Paul College. You recently directed a musical at the Jetty Theatre. What was the musical about? The musical was Alice In Wonderland Jr, and it is based on Lewis Carroll's 1865 novel. It follows the journey of a young girl named Alice who’s curiosity leads her to a mysterious land named Wonderland. The Jr musical is similar to the original storyline and with added upbeat songs and lyrics, the musical is its own unique adaptation of the timeless classic. How many kids were cast in the play, and what was the age range? The entire musical was made up of kids ages eight - 18, and we had 34 cast members. 54 Coffs Coast focus

At auditions we had around 70 kids audition, so to bring it back to the end result was extremely hard. How long from start to finish did it take to put the musical together? It took many months of planning, but after auditions it was a quick four months of rehearsals two times a week to develop a 60 minute musical. We finished the show with around a month to go, so we spent the last month polishing and perfecting every scene, song and dance. You are both 16 and still at school. How did you find balancing school commitments and the time you put into the musical? Balancing school and the musical was difficult, as we still had assignments and homework to hand in at specific times. There were times when schoolwork had to wait, as we had rehearsals or we had a meeting for planning costumes, sets and props. Often we would find ourselves putting Alice before school, to make sure the show was organised and ready for stage. After a while we got into a regular routine of what times we could spend together collaborating on the show and what time we could spend on homework. How did you come to be involved with the Jetty Theatre? Ellie: I have performed in seven musicals and started when I was nine. I've always loved performing, and gradually I became more confident on stage, which benefited me in other aspects such as drama at school and public speaking competitions. Both Rachael and I do dance, singing and drama workshops together at Harbour Church and have used the

skills we learnt to create come. Alice In wonderland Jr. What sort of response Rachael: I have have you received always been intrigued from your peers and Musical theatre is an by everything to do the community? opportunity for kids with musical theatre. Fortunately everyone to be themselves and The singing, costumes, has loved the production show their skills actors and music were - many did not know on stage, and we want always bringing a smile it was all organised to give the local youth to my face. My first show by kids, which was of Coffs Harbour an was in 2014, when I a huge compliment. opportunity to shine. was a dancer in Mary People would come up Poppins. From then, to us after the show I’ve done another two and say that what they shows, Legally Blonde saw on stage was very Jr. and Seussical. Towards the end of 2016 professional and exceeded their expectations we established CHMCC JR - a group of ten for a junior production. The success of the students under the age of 18 who want to show is humongous and hopefully leads give the youth of Coffs Harbour a chance to to many more Jr productions. We want to show their talent side by side with others their thank the CHMCC Senior committee for their age and who have the same interests. mentoring and support during the process of Is the theatre and productions like this this show; their help has definitely improved something you are both interested in the success of Alice. pursuing after you finish school? Do you have any plans for future plays? Ellie: As Year 12 is popping around the Definitely - getting more and more kids corner, I have found myself wondering more involved in theatre is CHMCC Jr’s main goal. if I would like to do this as a career. It would Musical theatre is an opportunity for kids to be incredible, but after Alice I have found be themselves and show their skills on stage, myself more interested in behind the scenes. and we want to give the local youth of Coffs Directing or Choreographing a professional Harbour an opportunity to shine. production would be a dream come true, and We are hoping to put on another musical in I would always look back to Alice as the roots the next year or two. We will switch around of this dream. the production team, so everyone can get a Rachael: I would love to be able to chance to try out every aspect of putting on a professionally perform in musicals once show. We know the kids have loved it, and the I’ve finished school; however, directing a response has been amazing. We can’t wait to professional musical would be a lot harder put on another show. and may not happen for many, many years to Thanks girls.

Health Wellbeing focushealth

and

WITH LAUREN VESTEY FROM LIVING DOLL

WITH NOURISHED EARTH

Smoothies

NUDE BEIGE

STAY N EU T R A L

for Good Health

This month we are delighted to share with you some of our favourite nourishing smoothie recipes. Smoothies are a great way to detoxify, boost metabolism, build muscle, support energy and maintain a healthy digestive system.

hese nutritious drinks are a great way to enrich our body with a number of essential vitamins, minerals, protein and carbohydrates, which will assist in boosting immunity, elevated energy and increased motivation. Smoothies can taste amazing, and there is a huge variety of options to suit everyone’s tastebuds.

Protein Smoothie

For the chocolate lovers there is a range of cacao smoothies; for those who feel the need to cleanse and detoxify, green chlorophyll rich smoothies may be the choice for you. The combination of ingredients you can use is endless. Depending on your mood, health concerns, goals and preference, you can get creative with ingredients that are perfect for you.

Berry Blissful

2 frozen bananas

1 cup of organic blueberries

½ cup of coconut cream

Handful of soaked cashew nuts

1 cup of water

1 cup of coconut water

1 avocado

1 teaspoon of coconut nectar or raw honey

½ cup of oats

1 tablespoon of chia seeds

2 tablespoons of nut butter

Handful of ice

1 serving of grass fed whey concentrate 2 tablespoons of cacao

Clean Green Smoothie

Weight Burn ½ frozen banana ½ cup of organic berries

1 Lebanese cucumber

1 serving of protein powder (we like either a whey isolate or college peptides)

2 handfuls of spinach

¼ avocado

Handful of fresh mint

1 tablespoon of flaxseed

1 cup of coconut water

1 tablespoon of MCT oil

1 tablespoon of grated ginger

Handful of greens (spinach or cucumber)

Juice of half a lemon

1 cup of coconut water or water

1½ cups of chopped pineapple

Juice of half a lemon

There are dozens of popular blonde shades out there right now, BUT THE ONE THAT’S CAPTURED OUR IMAGINATION IS “NUDE BEIGE”. Here’s what you need to know about this season’s hot new colour trend ...

ou've heard of warm and cool tones, right? Well, the unique nude beige hue is all about blending warm and cool beige tones, so that they react off one another and ultimately create a nude colour that highlights the facial contours. Therefore, unlike cool blonde shades like ash or platinum, nude beige is a truly neutral shade, meaning the end result is a more natural-looking blonde hue. Will I suit nude beige?

In the same way as you care for your skin when you're in the sun, you'll need to take care of your newly highlighted nude locks. Coloured hair needs to be treated kindly. Moisturising, hydrating and protecting your follicles is key.

The L'Oréal Professionnel salon SMARTBOND treatment is the perfect option for those looking to protect their hair. The unique system protects and strengthens bonds during hair colour services, and was specifically designed for use by hairdressers. Talk to Lauren, Kate, Chloe or Tia about what a difference it THE UNIQUE SYSTEM will make to your hair. PROTECTS AND

Because nude beige is a neutral shade that contains an equal Not sure nude’s for STRENGTHENS amount of warm and you? Want a change BONDS DURING HAIR cool hues, its greatest but can’t commit to all COLOUR SERVICES, asset is that it will these new trends, Rose AND WAS SPECIFICALLY suit most skin tones. Gold, Silver, Bronze, DESIGNED FOR USE BY However if you're Nude? HAIRDRESSERS. unsure, pop into Living This season, why Doll and ask one of the not try something less Premier Stylists if this is permanent… the best shade to flatter Now Living Doll’s colourist becomes your hair your skin tone, as well as your current hairstyle. makeup artist with #COLORFULHAIR Flash Pro How to get the nude beige blonde hair Hair Makeup. There is a #COLORFULHAIR Flash colour. total hair look for every occasion: festival, In order to achieve the best possible result, wedding, date night and many more! head into a Living Doll and leave your hair Available in four fun-filled shades, colour in the hands of a L'Oréal Professionnel #COLORFULHAIR Flash is the ideal opportunity expert. They will utilise the range of permanent to express your creativity in a washout kind of ammonia free blonde hair colours from the way. They take less than 30 minutes in the salon INOA range to recreate the perfect nude beige and they’re non-transferable on clothing and hue. visible on all hair colours. Come in and have a How do I maintain my new nude beige blonde hair colour?

play with the Living Doll Premier Stylists today. XO Dolls Coffs Coast focus 55

focusinterview.

SCU Gym

FOCUS HAD A CHAT WITH TIM WELSFORD, MANAGER OF THE SOUTHERN CROSS UNIVERSITY SPORTS & FITNESS CENTRE, TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE FACILITY

AND ALL THE GREAT SERVICES AVAILABLE TO INSPIRE YOUR HEALTH GOALS. i Tim, SCU Sports & Fitness Centre is the little gym doing big things. Can you tell us about the facility and what services you offer

there? The gym sector in Coffs Harbour is competitive, but we focus on being an affordable, full service gym. Our fees begin at about half of the going rate at other local gyms, and we have qualified staff in the centre every minute we are open. We have no start up fees, no program costs - we just try to make is as easy as possible for people to improve their health and wellness. We also hire out our court, footy field and AFL Oval to clubs and community groups. Some of our regular hirers are Coffs Badminton Club and Hockey Coffs Coast, who provide a great atmosphere in the Centre. Who uses the facility? Everyone! We have a large cohort of our membership from the CHEC community, but members of the public are very welcome too. Because of our price point, we are very accessible for students, families and older adults. We are part of the Fitness Passport Gym Network, so we attract people from the Coffs Health Campus, Department of Education and other government organisations who have access to Fitness Passport. We also have a resident Accredited Exercise Physiologist who 56 Coffs Coast focus

is awesome with special populations, so we do really cater for everyone. The gym is a full service gym; what does that mean? That every minute we are open, there is a qualified staff member available to assist you at no additional cost. Once you become a is the best rate you will member, there are We are part of the Fitness find in Coffs. We are no additional fees for Passport Gym Network, really focusing on our programs, assessments so we attract people small facility having a big or advice. You will not be from the Coffs Health community impact. approached by personal Campus, Department What are your opening trainers trying to make a of Education and other hours? sale - only qualified gym government organisations who Our gym is open staff if you would like have access to Fitness Passport. Monday - Thursday from some help. 6am - 8pm and Fridays Do you need a from 6am - 7pm. We membership to access are closed on weekends the gym, and what and public holidays. About our court and field does it cost to attend? spaces; hire agreements can be made for any We do have casual rates (pay per visit) but day at any time. the most affordable way to access our facility is Who makes up the team there? through membership starting at around $6 per We have six great instructors who all bring a week. As an example, we have three month different skill set to our team. Fiona is qualified memberships starting from $75, and six month in Pilates and massage therapy and is awesome memberships starting from $130. No additional at core strength. Helen tends to engage with start up fees, no additional costs for programs. our special populations and is undertaking I challenge anyone to find better value. further study with dementia patients. Tim is We also hire out our court space and great with training for hypertrophy and sports sporting fields at a starting rate of $30 per specific gains. Wi is brilliant at group training hour for community groups and again, that

and programming for teams of people to get results. And, Ethan loves programming Olympic lifts and functional movements. I’m the sixth instructor; I’m good at talking … What advice would you give someone wanting to improve their health? Go to your GP for a check-up, and then if everything is okay, join our gym. And, do it today. Sometimes the biggest hurdle is just starting and once you start, it gets a lot easier. We only get one chance at life, and most people want to be their best self. We can help with that. What’s your favourite inspirational saying? I have lots. We have a blackboard in our gym where we often put up inspirational quotes. Come in and check them out. How do we find out more about the gym? Jump on our socials insta: scufitnesscentre_ coffsharbour or FB: SCUsportscentreCH; give us a call on 6659 3936; email sportscentre@ scu.edu.au or drop in. We love getting people started on the health and fitness journey. Thanks Tim.

Photo: Living Doll team Tianna, Kate, Tia, Sharna, Chloe & Lauren

FOCUS distributes 21,000 copies every month across the Coffs Coast via our home delivery and direct to businesses. If you happen to miss out on one at home, or are visiting from out of town, then please visit one of our outlets by the 10th of the month to grab your free copy. OUR OUTLETS • Regional Conservatorium • Edegrees at Park Beach Plaza • Coffs Central • Muffin Break at Toormina Gardens • Le Dain Designs • Hyde Cafe in Bellingen • Bellingen VIC • Element Bar • The Promenade • Hoey Moey

• Nourished Earth, Moonee Beach Shopping Centre • Galleria, Nambucca Heads • Jetty Memorial Theatre • Karangi Shop • Coramba Store • Two Tails Wines • Big Garden Furniture, Woolgoolga • Mullaway General Store • Bluebottles, Woolgoolga

Living Doll Shhh. Can you hear that? If you listen closely, you’ll hear the sound of hundreds of blow-dry appointments being slotted into salons around the country. Whether it’s for Christmas parties or catch up drinks, scheduling in a blow-dry takes the pressure off come party time. Many clients visit us for a special “do” for their Christmas parties and special events, and we love to discuss what hairstyle will best suit their chosen outfit. Whether you’re after Victoria’s Secret-style, bombshell waves, straight with a touch of texture or glossy s-bends, find your picture reference and take it with you to your appointment. Or, why not come early and go through our huge range on our iPads and enjoy a yummy cappuccino while you decide! A glamorous blow-dry is a favourite look, particularly for clients whose hair is shoulder-length or longer. After such a stylish blow dry, you’ll be shaking up your long curls on the dance floor all night. The Premier Stylists at Living Doll’s festive season hair looks a million dollars and takes less time than you think. You can relax with a magazine, or why not watch one of your Netflix favourite series while we glam you up for your big event! Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, a glamorous blow dry should only take around 30 to 45 minutes with a wash, so you’ll still have time to do your makeup and get a mani-pedi. If you have a Christmas party or just want to glam up for the festive season, call the Premier Stylists at Living Doll on (02) 6699 2122 for a glamorous blow dry today. XO DOLLS.

FOCUS can also be found at selected hotels, resorts and motels on the Coffs Coast. Missed a copy?

You can find EVERY edition of FOCUS online on our bookshelf at www.issuu.com/focus.mag

OUR REACH

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

Coffs Coast focus 57

THE SECRET TO

pain-free LIVING

happy feet MAY BE

Are you frustrated by ongoing foot, knee, hip or back pain? Do you feel like you’re in the dark about what the cause of the problem is?

id North Coast Physio continues to utilise state of the art technology in healthcare across their fours clinics on the Coffs Coast and can help you find the answers others miss. By using computerised foot scanning with the Gaitscan system, along with a thorough physical assessment, their team can solve your ongoing pain for good, rather than just short term quick fixes. Owner and leading physiotherapist Aaron Hardaker tells us why technology plays an important role in finding the cause, rather than just treating symptoms. How can having a computerised foot scan help solve my pain?

What is Gaitscan?

Gaitscan is a computerised foot scanning system that is used at Mid North Coast Physio to get very detailed analysis of your foot and lower limb movement and load. The problem with just watching you walk, or even videoing the movement, is that you aren’t able to measure the impact on the joints or where the impact occurs. Also, on average the foot is only in contact with the ground for about There is nothing more 0.7 sec with each step, frustrating than having the so using state of the art same problem coming technology allows much back again and again, better assessment of what because your therapist is is going wrong in a very focused on what hurts, rather short space of time. than what makes it hurt.

By getting all the information, it’s then much easier to find the right solution for your pain. All too often complaints like bursitis, shin splints, plantar fasciitis, achilles tendinitis, low back pain and many others can be because of poor foot mechanics - you end up like a car with a bad wheel alignment, which leads to excessive wear and tear. By finding what’s going wrong, you can then treat the cause, rather than just symptoms. There is nothing more frustrating than having the same problem coming back again and again, because your therapist is focused on what hurts, rather than

grants McDonald’s junior

what makes it hurt. At Mid North Coast Physio, we want to make sure you are fixed for good, not just for now.

How can I get a FREE Gaitscan computer foot assessment? With clinics in Woolgoolga, Moonee Beach, Toormina and Urunga we are able to organise an appointment at the most convenient site for you. As a special offer for Coffs Coast FOCUS readers, we are offering a FREE Gaitscan computerised foot assessment to the first 10 callers on 1300 273 747. And as an extra bonus, if you require custom made orthotics you will get $50 off your orthotics purchase. This is strictly limited to the first 15 bookings, so call now to book and find out how to get rid of your pain for good.

P R O G R A M

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

he McDonald Junior Grants Program proudly support the Naru Surf Gathering as part of NAIDOC celebrations. We are driven to create opportunities and a supportive environment for the local Coffs Coast Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community. Event organiser Amber Hamer says, “This is one of four national Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander surfing events annually. We have donated all proceeds from this event over the last two years to Black Dog Institute, Joe Williams Enemy Within Foundation and local Women’s Elders group, Manam-Girrilma Guyunggan.

prepared and impromptu speeches. She represented the Coffs district at the Northern NSW regional competition, placed first and as a result will be representing Northern NSW in the state final to be held in Sydney in October. Another lucky grant recipient, Jude began playing tennis after watching John Millman at the US Open. In the last 12 months, he has encouraged the whole

We are hopeful that this event will continue to grow and create positive opportunities for the local community. We believe

these activities will empower and equip young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with

important life skills and promote healthy living.

“We are hopeful that this event will continue to grow and create positive opportunities for the local community. We believe these activities will empower and equip young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with important life skills and promote healthy living.” Grant recipient and local public speaking talent, Laura has recently competed in the Multicultural Perspectives Public Speaking

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Competition this year by presenting both

family to join the local tennis club. Proud mum Emma says she is also learning! “He is only eight years old and now wants to teach his 11 year old sister how to play. If the family can all learn to play tennis - it will benefit us all. It’s important for me to encourage the kids to

remain fit and healthy.” The McDonald’s Junior Grant Program believes that building a successful generation comes 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

• A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE •

The Importance of being Educated Coffs Coast Physie Coffs Coast Physie offers classes that fuse dance styles such as jazz, ballet, hip hop, contemporary, aerobic dance and even yoga, all in the one class, with the perfect combination of movements designed to increase strength, fitness, flexibility, coordination and confidence. Coffs Coast Physie has a team of dedicated teachers who provide classes for all ages and abilities, from preschoolers to ladies. Along with learning age appropriate, innovative choreography that changes annually, classes are presented in an encouraging and positive manner, where every member is supported and nurtured to be the best they can be. We

focus on developing our students’ self-esteem by teaching them to have a positive relationship with their bodies. Coffs Coast Physie is proudly affiliated with the Bjelke Peterson School of Physical Culture, who offer a variety of individual and team events. With an annual registration fee of only $77 and classes starting from $6 per week, Coffs Coast Physie is an affordable way to learn to dance and keep fit. We also accept Active Kids Vouchers. Classes are located for your convenience in the Coffs CBD. To register your interest for classes in 2019, please call Allison on 0411 460 377 or email any queries to ccphysie@hotmail.com

WITH BDC PRINCIPAL NICK JOHNSTONE

We live in a new reality - one that is dominated by opinion pieces, advertising and poorly researched half-truths. THE SEARCH FOR TRUTH AND THE ABILITY TO DISAGREE WELL HAVE EVOLVED AS CRITICAL AND CULTURAL SKILLS that we now require to wade through the media landscape.

had the opportunity to listen to importance of cultural awareness and values Victor Branson recently. Victor and respect in the face of disagreement. was the foundation Principal at At the University of Sydney, this program is Bishop Druitt College and is a called the Post-Truth Initiative. He addressed highly respected educator in the the importance of being respectful and independent schooling system throughout to use researched, reasoned and ethical NSW. Victor spoke about the role of arguments when discussing difficult issues. schooling in supporting students with He encouraged us to listen empathetically to their critical research and reasoning skills. the arguments of others. He also encouraged He argued that the modern world and its us to listen with a critical and discerning popular media and ear, to be aware of social media platforms our tone and deal with had created a forum the disagreement in a for people to have nonpersonal manner. an uninformed voice This lecture reminded Over the weekend I thought about and that it is the me of the often quoted these two speeches, the search responsibility of a “great minds discuss for truth and the ability to disagree well, and I believe that good education to ideas; average minds they are both essential in fighting fight back with critical discuss events; small against populist unreasoned research, reasoned minds discuss people”. arguments. arguments and the Over the weekend continual search I thought about these for the truth. Victor two speeches, the highlighted recent search for truth and issues with insurance companies, banks the ability to disagree well, and I believe and our politicians both domestically and that they are both essential in fighting in the United States as areas of concern. I against populist unreasoned arguments. support Victor’s call, noting that the ability to How do we, as critically intelligent, discern truth and then share this reason in a thoughtful and respectful individuals, help respectful way is the next step in improving right this avalanche? We search for truth. our society. We teach our children the importance of At a recent Anglican schools conference in Sydney, I attended a lecture given by Dr Michael Spence. Michael is the ViceChancellor and Principal of the University of Sydney. He spoke about the importance of disagreeing well. He addressed the

researching truth, and we also teach them the importance of being kind and respectful in the face of disagreement. The search for truth cannot be delegated to others. It is the responsibility of each of us as students, as parents, as mentors or as teachers. Coffs Coast focus 59

• A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE • with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

November 2018

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

The ending of feeling suspended is near. You have some undigested emotions from your last cycle at work that may need some loving answers. When you have changed this inner conflict, nothing will be holding you back. Set new goals and give yourself permission to succeed. Citrine shatters negativity and attracts an abundance of luck.

You are learning how strong and independent you already are and what little you need from others. Identify what feelings you may think others can give you and wake that feeling up on your own and breathe it through every cell to strengthen it. Ruby leaves us feeling connected to our strength and independence.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You are going to experience itchy feet and a restlessness as your new cycle approaches. Setting fresh goals at that time will ensure a momentum that will benefit you enormously. Love will be your major influence in this next cycle. Loving life in general. Rose Quartz will amplify your happy feelings.

Your words hold the power to end conflict. You are a peace keeper and a natural teacher, so don’t be afraid to speak; just be aware of your motive. Sugilite helps us to connect to our dreams for understanding life from different perspectives.

Set some fresh goals, and then wait for your surprise. The Universe has an element of intrigue in store for you, and to access it all you need to do is listen to your own inner voice. This is the energy centre you will be guided from. Amethyst is great for following guidance.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

You may need to honour your boundaries. Don’t be afraid to say no to the things that leave you feeling uncomfortable, and yes to those things exciting you. You have new social influences to look forward to, so enjoy putting on your gypsy shoes and have fun. Turquoise is great for boosting confidence.

You are likely to be adventuring with new foundations in life, so be aware of insecurities playing with you. A new dwelling or work changes can be anticipated. Keep a light heart and set some new goals, so you can easily access your opportunities as they appear. Carnelian is great for embracing change.

You may be finding a new depth of love in your relationship or finding a new love if you’re single. You can anticipate a solid connection for clear open communication and complete truth. You will enjoy how this relationship leaves you feeling about yourself. Sugilite will help nurture love fearlessly.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Love yourself enough to stop sabotaging your successes. If you know that you deserve the best, nothing will be a challenge. Give yourself permission to succeed before trying new ventures and know when is a good time to be silent. Some fresh goals would be favourable. Selenite helps us reach our full potential.

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Love is likely to be the strongest influence in your reality at this time. Embrace it, making newfound friends, and enjoy your social calendar. Set some fresh goals, as your luck is picking up also. Career changes can be anticipated as well. Ruby shatters any fear of the unknown.

Professional responsibilities need to be left at work, and not taken home. This is causing your seriousness. Bring your silly self back and prank or play more. You are naturally able to be very light hearted, but at present you’re vulnerable with serious energy. Clear Quartz lightens our energy; carry some.

You need to set some new goals, but being aware of your motive will speed the delivery time up. So sit quietly and reflect on different areas in life and wish for new influences, making sure your fears are not your motive but your passions are guiding you. Aquamarine is efficient at releasing fears and opening new beginnings.

• A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE •

openarms CA R E

Cindy Warren, Family Day Care Coordinator for Open Arms Care talks with FOCUS about becoming a family day care educator.

hat does it mean support, a full orientation and induction to be a family program, including a buddy mentoring plan, day care educator access to resources such as toys and books, with Open Arms and are encouraged to participate and share Care? their experience with other educators through Family day regular meetings and training. care educators provide education and care To become an educator with Open Arms for babies and children in the educator’s Care Family Day Care, call us on 6655 2650 to own home. Open Arms Care offers support discuss your passions, qualifications and your to educators in providing a program and proposed care setting, and we will arrange environment that is a reflection of their own an onsite meeting with you at your house beliefs, philosophy and critical reflection on to kick start creating a safe, stimulating and outstanding early childhood education. educational learning environment. As a not-for-profit community based If you live in a rental property, you will need organisation, Open Arms to advise your landlord of Care differs from foryour intent to operate a profit-services by investing family day care service. It back in to the community. is also a requirement for There are lower costs all adults residing in the to both educators We work as a team, providing home over the age of 18 and families with our quality and passionate to have current Working commitment to provide education and care of with Children Checks. high quality services for children for the community. Cindy will be there to less. help and guide you Maximum support through the process and is offered through to answer any questions multiple platforms, so you have. that educators can feel Additional support is offered to those confident. Cindy, the coordinator, is reflective working towards completing qualifications. and encouraging in her support practices For new and existing family day care and dedicated to providing professional educators, a $1,500 incentive is being offered development opportunities to grow and build for the development or redesign of your skills and knowledge. We work individually environments and educational needs. with educators to support and create their own unique style of programming to share with families, to involve them in what their child has been engaging with, exploring and learning about whilst spending the day in care. We work as a team, providing quality and passionate education and care of children for the community. How do you become an educator, and what is involved? New educators are provided with ongoing

Why would you become a family day care educator? A family day care educator is their own boss, choosing the hours, days, fees and philosophy for their business. You have the creativity for your own environments to produce invigorating and meaningful learning play spaces for a small group of children, building on your passion and life skills to create an educational safe space. Coffs Coast focus 61

ReWild

hey say we don’t inherit the Earth from our parents; we are simply borrowing it from our children. We love to look at our health in the same way; if we continue to improve our own personal adult health, then in generations to come our offspring will reap the benefits from improved gene transcription and human evolution right. So, if we look at our current population and now that Australia is up in the top with the highest rates of obesity and CVD, physical ailments, unable elderly and adults, then we must be alarmed at the fact that we haven’t laid solid foundations for our kids to thrive on. So what steps do we need to take to ensure our kids have a fighting chance? We have a few strategies that will not only help improve physical and physiological health short term, but long term as well. Our recommendations are quite simple, but extremely effective. We have tested these over years of coaching young kids and consistently witnessed the benefits first hand. So, what do we suggest … We recommend sports or activities that will provide benefit longterm and target more than just “Fitness:, or be a simple “Band-aid”, so to speak. Our kids need to be essentially “unplugged” from the mainstream industries and reconnected to our genetic and biological demands. We need to develop the capacity to grow and continue to evolve, so we can negate the effects of the conditions that are being passed down to us from previous generations. Our top two recommendations are martial arts specifically Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Natural/Primal Movement. We selected these as a part of our service in comparison with the multitude of other options out there that have similar surface benefits, but the depth and complexity are lacking in a lot of these. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Natural Movement provide endless amounts of complexities and benefits that are kind of like putting deposits in the bank - small investments each week to provide a stronger and more capable, resilient and healthy body. We don’t ever want to tax our health, and a lot of activities tax more than they invest, so the result is inevitable. Injuries, ailments, limited ability to expand and grow and the list can go on, although through careful selection and guidance we can provide our children with a healthy “bank account” (health/physical) for years to come that can be expanded and adapted to evolve and scale to new heights. Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is arguably the most sophisticated and sustainable martial art in the world, with

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a lot of potential for growth and development in all areas of health, with the benefits also being largely transferable to everyday living. The same is for Natural Movement - the benefits of moving the way nature intended, without the use of fancy machines and gym equipment and to simply connect with the environment on a deeper level. Jiu-jitsu is an art that focuses on utilising strategical and effective movements based on leverage and minimal strength, so a person can safely and efficiently defend themselves against larger, stronger opponents. The technicalities of this art can be forever sought after and at the same time, provide many life lessons to go along with it. With Natural Movement, the whole philosophy is to learn to move the way we are designed to move, through connecting with our environment and implementing specific and adaptable movement patterns to assist with it. We have been too plugged into the reliance of machines and certain technologies, that we have begun to lose our way. We have an epidemic of “Zombie” kids that are stuck in front of a TV or iPad and literally have no idea or feel comfortable about playing outside or adventuring and even trying new things. Kids begin to lose their sense of identity using technology and become almost unable to function without it. Natural Movement provides a structured and progressive path for kids to follow to re-discover their Wild little spirits. We naturally play, roughhouse, climb, jump, balance and overcome ninja obstacles in nature, yet we forget how capable we truly are by becoming “plugged in”. Here is a short list of benefits that BJJ and Natural movement provide: • Physical and cognitive awareness • Improved neuroplasticity and brain development, memory and cognitive functionality. • Building physicality - strength, flexibility, endurance, etc. • Building life skills, problem-solving, strategy, teamwork, discipline, confidence. • Emotional Improvements - stress, anxiety, patience, anger, joy. • Social interaction - communication, physical interaction, character development. • Capabilities - self-defence, adaptability, durability, survival, helping others. It’s time to Zombie Proof the Young Gen and Create a Sustainable Model for Health. If you would like to know more about these classes, check out our timetable, or even give us a call. Our mission is to develop a strong community of humans and bring out the best in our kids.

focusinterview

Business Minds with Sam Wardman of CornerPost Creative

Simon Waterworth GeoLINK

elcome to Business Minds, Simon. How did you come to call the beautiful

Coffs Coast home? I studied at UNE in Armidale and used to come down to the Coffs Coast to have a break from the cold weather. My wife (whom I met at UNE) and I, had always “earmarked” the region as a place we would love to settle. I managed to snag a job as a town planner at Bellingen Shire Council in late 2000, so we moved to the lush green Bellinger Valley from the hot, flat black soil plains of Dalby in Western Queensland, where the only place you could get a takeaway coffee was the local service station. To say I haven’t look back is an understatement. Tell us about GeoLINK and what services you provide. We are an environmental and engineering consulting firm that has been working in Northern NSW for around for 25 years. We provide an integrated mix of environmental and engineering consultancy services, including: town planning, ecology, environmental impact assessment, civil and environmental engineering, and urban and landscape design. We help our clients with the design, approval, construction and monitoring of their projects, and we are committed to finding the best social, environmental and economic solutions for their projects. Our consultancy service range expands from Newcastle to Tweed Heads, and

we also work extensively throughout rural NSW too. We love what we do and have a fantastic team based in four office locations, including: Coffs Harbour, Armidale, Lennox Head and Lismore. How has GeoLINK evolved over the past decade or so? About four years ago we had a complete change in ownership and management of the company. The three previous directors retired and sold the company to the current owner: Simon Williams, Duncan Thompson and myself. There has been a big shift in the direction of the company since the change of ownership. We have really focused on improving the financial performance of the company and expanding into markets that aligned with our existing skill set, such as the agricultural industry. We’re lucky to have a team of very talented and respected professionals to help deliver this strategic change for not only us, but our clients too. What interested you about a career in town planning, and what does a town planner actually do? I get that question a lot … and I kind of fell into town planning. Like many who leave school, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I read a bit about town planning and about UNE (University of New England) and Armidale and thought it looked OK. I was very lucky, I guess, that I grew to really like the profession. As a consultant Town Planner, my main role is to assist individuals, developers and government agencies negotiate the rather complex NSW Planning System to get their

based on minimal impact projects approved. These to the environment, projects can range from I think people are demanding as well as designing to subdivisions, roadworks, a greater consideration meet the current needs hospitals, residential of the environment and without compromising flat buildings, shopping ecologically sustainable the future generation’s centres etc. Town design in urban design. needs has become more Planners also have an This is ﬁltering through in some prevalent in recent important role in Local of the more recent developments projects. and State Government, we have been involved with, Living and working which includes especially in the residential sector. on the coast has its development assessment advantages. What are and regulation and your stand outs? strategic planning. Living in Bellingen Share with us one of has to be the stand out for me. It’s a small but your favourite projects you’ve worked on vibrant community that has a great range of to date? restaurants and bars, and, has arguably the I have been doing a lot of work for NSW highest ratio of coffee shops per capita of any Heath recently in preparing Development town in Australia! I also love that it is only a Applications and Environmental Impact 15-minute drive to the beach too. Statements for large hospital developments in Striving for a work/life balance is what regional areas. Hospitals are such important every professional aims for. How do you assets to regional communities, so it’s very master yours? rewarding work. We have just lodged I am lucky in that I rarely work weekends. I development applications for a new hospital in think we all need two days to get away from Macksville and a major upgrade to the Coffs the jobs we do. Harbour Hospital, which are both exciting If you could give a student finishing the projects for the Mid North Coast. HSC one piece of advice, what would it be? What are some of the trends you are Don’t be too concerned about your first seeing in your industry? career choice - there will be many opportunities I think people are demanding a greater to change directions in your working life. So, consideration of the environment and just do your best for now. ecologically sustainable design in urban design. Favourite quote/motto? This is filtering through in some of the more My uncle used to say to me (and still does), recent developments we have been involved “If you are not 10 minutes early - you’re late!” with, especially in the residential sector. Thanks Simon. Sustainability in its true sense of designing Coffs Coast focus 63

PA R T N E R S Personalised in style, but big on results, Nolan Partners is the brainchild of award winning Coffs Harbour real estate agents Scott and Melissa Nolan. Now, as one of the leaders in the Coffs Harbour property market, the Nolan Partners team has continued to set records and achieve premium results for their clients.

64 Coffs Coast focus

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PA R T N E R S

T H E

H I S T O R Y

hen and how did the Nolan Partners story begin? We established Nolan Partners in 2004. We both previously had been part of a franchise office and saw the need for a more personalised approach, that would focus on premium marketing and exceptional service. Scott started his real estate career as a

Property Manager with Lachie and Marian Cameron at Park Beach; coincidently, the old “Camerons Real Estate” occupied the site of the newly completed “Seashells” complex that we have just successfully marketed. I started my real estate career in 1995 as a Personal Assistant and transitioned into sales in 1997… 21 years on, and I am lucky enough to still love what I do! It’s been an amazing journey over the past

14 years and with the recent acquisition and rebranding of our Sawtell office, it doesn’t look like slowing down any time soon. How long have you been living in the Coffs community? The Nolan family have been part of the Coffs Coast community since 1928, with my family moving here in 1973. Scott’s late grandfather claims we first met when we were 10 years old and both members of the Coffs Junior Surf Life

nolansholidays

Saving Club; however, neither of us have any memories of this. Our first memories of each other are when we attended school together at Orara High, where by Year 11 we had started dating. Yes, we were high school sweethearts! We love the fact that our roots and are families are so closely tied to the Coffs Coast and that we are lucky enough to have most of our family still living here.

Rebranded & Expanded

NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHING SOON

previously known as Sawtell Accommodation, we’ve now rebranded to nolanholidays and expanded our services from Sawtell to Mullaway.

Charlotte Nolan

Licensed Real Estate Agent - Holiday Manager

02 6650 0655

charlotte@nolanpartners.com.au Coffs Coast focus 65

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PA R T N E R S T H E

H I S T O R Y

What part of the business are you most proud of? Definitely the team we have around us - at Nolans, our culture is built on an unwavering commitment to provide unrivalled real estate services with an emphasis on understanding and trust. We are proud to provide the ultimate in personalised service, from the most exciting, highly trained, customer focused real estate team in the region. What have been the biggest changes you have seen over the last 15 years? Without a doubt, the growing influence of

digital marketing, the constant changes it brings and then subsequently understanding what it encompasses. When I first started in real estate, things looked very different … window displays consisted of a photo printed from the local photographic shop and stuck in the window with sticky tape, days were spent driving buyers to all your properties, as this was the only way they could view them, mobile phones were “bricks” that you put on the bonnet of your car to pull up the aerial to use, there was no realestate.com.au and the internet had just started to evolve. Technology has definitely

been the biggest game changer! Whilst none of us instinctively embrace change, opening up your mind to change and the advantages, speed or efficiencies it can bring has definitely been a big part of our business’s growth. The Nolans story is a family based business. Have the original values and goals remained with growth? As a family run business, we value collaboration and a team oriented environment - a mentality we extend to our client relationships. Our core philosophy has never wavered, and that is to seek the very best

outcome for clients by developing strong relationships built on honesty and trust. This ethos has allowed us to continue to grow every year. Continuing the family tradition, our youngest son Billy joined our Coffs Harbour office in January 2016 and runs our marketing for both offices, as well as working alongside Scott and I as part of our sales team. In March 2017, our daughter Charlotte joined the team as part of our Sawtell acquisition and heads up our rapidly expanding Holiday Management Department.

Conveyancing

MADE SIMPLE “Congratulations Nolan Partners on 15 years of business on the Coffs Coast. The Simply Conveyancing team look forward to many more years of working together.”

Ground Floor, 24 Moonee Street P.O.Box 546 Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 P (02) 6652 4233 | F (02) 6652 4266 coffs@simplyconveyancing.net.au www.simplyconveyancing.com.au

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simply conveyancing

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PA R T N E R S

T H E

T E A M

ho makes up your team, and train weekly with each department, to ensure what are their roles? we are always striving to do better and provide Our team continues to exthe ultimate service we can. The difference with pand every year. We have us is we also focus on training and improvePrincipals: Scott Nolan and Melissa Nolan; ment outside of “work”, as this can often be Sales Agents: Craig Gardner, Kendall Devine, overlooked by businesses. We spend most of Nathan Dobbs, Gurk Singh and Cherylene our time with the people we work with, so Burke; therefore we feel we have Office and Marketing a responsibility to provide Managers: Kacee the support and tools Uikelotu and Billy Nolan; to enable everyone to ... We feel we have Sales Associates: achieve their “life goals”, a responsibility to Felicia Rieth, Billy Nolan not just their “career provide the support and Jordon Woods; goals”. and tools to enable Asset Managers: Matt We have recently seen everyone to achieve their O’Garey, Lana numerous team members ‘life goals’, not just their Richardson, Leesa across every department ‘career goals’. Werner, Davina undertake additional Howson, Natalie Sykes training to upgrade from and Jayde Hancock; their Certificate of RegisCommercial Division: tration and go on to obMatt O’Garey and Scott Nolan; tain their Real Estate Licence. This has involved Nolans Holidays: Charlotte Nolan and Dallas many hours of work from our team, which we Ridley; are extremely proud of. We now have 16 out of Front Of House Dallas Ridley, Nikkia our 20 team members being fully Licensed Real Humphries and Matilda Potter. Estate Agents, which is a huge achievement for How important is staff training? them personally. We value self-improvement and growth. We

Coffs Coast focus 67

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PA R T N E R S T H E

T E A M

What types of training to you provide to staff in each department? We conduct weekly team meetings for both the Sales Team and the Asset Management Team. The content of these meetings ranges from industry webinars, podcasts and videos to having visiting mentors come into our offices. Scott is also passionate about finance, the stock market and investment and so enjoys mentoring the younger team members through his experience to reach their own personal life and financial goals. We also subscribe to the services of several renowned Australian

Whether it be new technology or smarter strategies … if we feel it will beneﬁt our clients or our team, we are always embracing change!

and American trainers to keep the content fresh and forward thinking. We’re also fortunate to be the chosen Coffs Harbour member of the Real Estate Results Group, which is an Australian/ New Zealand group comprising the very best of independent agents across both countries. Our coach, Michael Sheargold, is renowned as one of the best trainers in the country, and we are fortunate to have his services. We are also very focused on keeping up with the latest

implementations, whether it be new technology or smarter strategies … If we feel it will benefit our clients or our team, we are always embracing change! How important is customer service in your industry? Service is a mindset. We nurture it carefully, but it must be within each of our team member’s core values and beliefs. Service, for us at Nolans, means caring and always putting our clients’ needs first. This encompasses

looking beyond the immediate and seeing what needs to follow. Service is also about being a trusted advisor, providing the best information and advice and delivering a rewarding, memorable experience. You recently renovated your second premises in First Avenue, Sawtell. What does this mean for your clients? Establishing the Sawtell office was a huge leap of faith, driven by both our past successes in the Sawtell, Toormina and Boambee/ Boambee East markets and the requests of our clients. Being in such a prominent position

LIC NO. 293867C

We are proud to be associated with Nolans over the past 7 years and are listed on their tenancy agreements as preferred company.

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on First Avenue brings our owners, buyers, landlords and tenants massive exposure and easy accessibility. The renovations have been 12 months in the making, but now they are complete we are so proud to offer our clients and our team such a lovely space to do business in. And, it doesn’t hurt to have such an amazing array of coffee and lunch places to meet if we want! We have been warmly welcomed by the Sawtell community, for which we are extremely grateful. What are some of the major projects you have worked on in the past few years? We are proud to be widely recognised as the leader in project sales and marketing on the Coffs Coast. Led by Scott, our successful Project Team have developed strong industry contacts and provide sales and marketing strategies, tailored to the individual client’s needs. During this time we have built a reputation among the development community as a highly effective sales producer and a valued source of market insights and innovation. The past few years have been busy with projects. We have been actively involved in many boutique projects, including “Azure” in Mildura Street, “Magnolia” in Victoria Street and “Franks” on Edgar Street, as well as high rise projects such as “Equinox” on Ocean Parade. Most recently we have seen the completion of “Seashells” at Park Beach, selling 85% off the plan, with just a few luxury apartments still available. This has proven to be

one of the most successful and exciting projects built in Coffs Harbour, and we feel privileged to have been involved from the ground up ... So much so, that three of our family are currently living in the complex, so I would say we Most recently we have very much have a vested seen the completion of interest! ‘Seashells’ at Park Beach, From small scale boutique selling 85% oﬀ the residential projects to large plan, with just a few multi-storey developments, luxury apartments the Project Marketing Team still available. This are proud of our ability to has proven to be one of work alongside our clients the most successful and right from the beginning, exciting projects built in even assisting then in their Coﬀs Harbour. initial negotiations!

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PA R T N E R S WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE WON THE FOLLOWING AWARDS

T H I N G S

T O

hat makes Nolan Partners different? From the outside looking in, it can seem that all real estate agents look pretty much the same. Interestingly though, there are so many differences. The differences may be relatively minor on their own, but combined they can have a massive impact on the final result. We believe the differences in our strategy and approach to doing business really give our clients a powerful advantage in the marketplace. We call these the “one percenters”, and even though they are just one percent better and improved, when you

70 Coffs Coast focus

K N O W

We believe the diﬀerences in our strategy and approach to doing business really give our clients a powerful advantage in the marketplace.

add them together it puts our clients in the best possible position to achieve the results they are after. We don’t believe in just doing enough to get by. Instead, we’ve invested heavily in the right systems, the right technology, the right marketing and the right training and development for all our team - all to give clients the advantage in what can be a competitive space. Tell us about your accolades since

2012 WINNER Property Management Team of the Year conception. Nolan Partners are the appointed members of the Real Estate Results Network in Coffs Harbour. This means we are linked into the

leading agencies across Australia and New Zealand, who pass a series of tests to be an exclusive member. The tests include our service standards, results for clients and our commitment to training and developing ourselves.

2013 WINNER Regional Boutique Agency of the Year 2014 WINNER Regional Boutique Agency of the Year 2015 WINNER Rising Star Agency of the Year 2016 WINNER Regional Boutique Agency of the Year 2017 WINNER Regional Boutique Agency of the Year 2018 WINNER Regional Agency of the Year

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In the past two years, we have also achieved amazing recognition by Rate My Agent, which is the number one independent site that rates agents according to sales and more importantly, the client experience and their reviews. We have been excited to be named the number one agency in Coffs Harbour, Moonee Beach and Sapphire Beach, and thank our clients who have entrusted us in the process of selling their homes. Marketing and interaction ... We are champions for emotive marketing ... making people feel an emotional connection to the property and helping

Whether it be a $200,000 property or a $2 million dollar property, we provide the same expectations of making all aspects of the marketing the best it can possibly be.

them to imagine the life they could live. A photograph or video will often be the first impression, which can inspire their decision to view and subsequently buy or lease a property. Whether it be a $200,000 property or a $2 million dollar property, we provide the same expectations of making all aspects of the marketing the best it can possibly be. From visual aspects such as print, photos and video to creative

copy writing, we will always ensure a property is seen in its best light. With online marketing becoming a major player, we also ensure that all our properties are exposed at the highest level, realising the importance of being seen at the front of any buyers’ or tenants’ search. Social media also plays an important part, and having Billy as part of the team has really ensured that we are well seen in that space

and portray our clients’ properties and our collaborative culture in a creative light. Where to from here? Whilst we don’t plan on retiring any time soon, it’s great to know that our family are linked to the future of our business, and we’re excited for the opportunities that lay ahead. The business has been built on family values and family culture, whilst embracing the latest in marketing and technology along the way to create a balanced, dynamic team of individuals who still hold true the original values of the business.

1/22 Keona Circuit, Coffs Harbour P 6652 4866 COFFS HARBOUR

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I N

T H E

C O M M U N I T Y

olan Partners are known for their community involvement. What particular projects have you been a part of? Nolan Partners have been involved in numerous fundraisers and charities over the years, supporting a variety of national causes such as R U OK Day, McGrath Foundation and the Pink Tractor Appeal. Local charities close to our heart include the Pink Silks and St Vincent De Paul Christmas appeal, as well as a number of local schools, sporting teams and individuals. Do you believe that it is important to be part of the Coffs community? Absolutely. However, we do not strive for recognition or publicity; instead, we see this as our corporate responsibility to support the people and community who support us

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every day. We encourage Money is often needed, each one of our team to but we often ﬁnd many become actively involved of these organisations in local community simply just need more organisations and volunteers, and we’re charities, whether it be always happy to help a team drive for the Red where we can. Cross Blood Bank or giving many people new to their time to conduct the industry. Although charity auctions. Money we don’t get it right is often needed, but we every time, we are often find many of these organisations simply proud of the fact that many of our team just need more volunteers, and we’re always have been with us for much of our journey. happy to help where we can. We also love to help our team as people and Are you happy when you know that you professionals and regularly talk to them about have trained so many people in their their personal and career goals. It’s always various areas and provided employment exciting to see our younger team members and upskilling to locals? achieve their dreams, buy their first property During the past 14 years we have employed or obtain their real estate licence, whether

they be in sales, property management or administration. We try to ensure everyone is working towards some sort of “life goal”, and we strive to help them in any way we can. We have a great team and a great culture, which in effect has built a great business. Are you on social media? Our social media handles are: @nolanpartners @nolanpartnersestateagents (holiday): @nolansholidays Thanks guys.

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25 YEARS

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WITH COLIN DENNIS

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COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

SMS Coffs Harbour Pty Ltd, in West High Street, is celebrating 25 years with Colin Dennis at the helm. FOCUS CAUGHT UP WITH COLIN, KARA, ANDREW AND THE TEAM TO CELEBRATE THIS MILESTONE AND LEARN MORE ABOUT THE BUSINESS, its history and the people behind it.

COLIN DENNIS CELEBRATING WITH CHU AT THEIR RECENT 40TH ANNIVERSARY

hat is the history behind technology. The operation of managing Body SMS STRATA? How did Corporates at the time of the acquisition of it start, and who was the company in 1993 saw limited computer involved? technology, being that all management tasks SMS Coffs Harbour Pty Ltd was bought by were undertaken manually. During this time Colin and the late Shirley Dennis in 1993 and we have overseen revolutionary computer has been independently technology that has owned for more than 25 enhanced the processes years. and procedures, welcoming During this time, Colin more accuracy and has been instrumental efficiencies. During this time we have in tripling the size of the We have also seen overseen revolutionary Coffs Harbour portfolio. tremendous growth in the computer technology Colin also has seen the number of Strata Plans we that has enhanced the expansion of the SMS manage in line with the processes and procedures, brand to SMS Sydney Pty amount of residential and welcoming more accuracy Ltd, SMS Port Macquarie commercial development in and efficiencies. Pty Ltd, SMS Byron Bay/ the region. This has resulted Ballina Pty Ltd and North in our staffing number Coast Strata Management increase from the original Services Pty Ltd in Coffs team of five to our current Harbour. team of twelve. How has the business changed over the Largely, however, our ethos has always past 25 years? remained the same to provide great professional One of the biggest changes is, of course, service and advice to our clients. >>

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25 YEARS

COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

WITH COLIN DENNIS C A R O LY N L E N E G H A N

Have there been any significant changes to the industry over the years? A recent major change in the strata industry has been the reform of strata schemes legislation, Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, that came into effect on the 30th November 2016. Incorporated within this new legislation were some 95-plus changes to the Act. So, having a strata manager like SMS who is up-to-date and across all these many changes is very important to the management of your scheme. What services does SMS Strata offer? Strata Title Management can be a

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potential minefield organise their needs and We can provide services to for Community statutory responsibilities, assist in marketing and Associations and free of worries and management planning of Owners’ Corporations, concerns. new developments prior to in which simple We can provide the commencement of the misunderstanding services to assist project... of the statutory in marketing and responsibilities could management planning prove costly. With of new developments all our experience, SMS Strata has the prior to the commencement of the project. knowledge and expertise to ensure no detail SMS Strata provides consultancy services is ever overlooked. for: Our consultancy service is second to none, • New Owners’ Corporations set up for and amongst other things we can help new Strata and Community owners and new Owners’ Corporations • Pre-planning services

• Mediation For your peace of mind we offer very competitive insurance packages underwritten by Corporate Home Unit Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd (CHU), Strata Unit Underwriters (SUU) and Strata Community Insurance (SCI). We provide excellent cover and very reasonable premiums, which are bound to achieve savings for each Owners’ Corporation. Single premium insurance packages encompassing schedules of cover for: • Reinstatement and replacement of building

COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

25 YEARS

MADELINE CLARKE, JESSICA CARAH

• Loss of rent/temporary relocation cover • Legal liability • Voluntary workers • Fidelity Guarantee insurance • Workers compensation • Office Bearers Liability • Insurance vlaims We are able to arrange: • Claim service as part of our insurance package • We process claims on behalf of owners for both fully managed Owners’ Corporations and non-managed buildings

WITH COLIN DENNIS

For your peace of mind we offer very competitive insurance packages underwritten by Corporate Home Unit Underwriting Agencies Pty Ltd (CHU), Strata Unit Underwriters (SUU) and Strata Community Insurance (SCI).

Landlord Insurance We are able to arrange: • Protection for investors and landlords • Cover: legal liability, contents reinstatement and replacement • All claims To make your life easier, we also provide a full electronic banking service for the payment of Owners’ Corporation levies. You can pay over the phone or online with any major

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credit card using DEFT or BPAY and if your bank doesn’t offer electronic banking, payments can be simply made via direct debit through Macquarie Bank or over the counter at any

Australia Post office. We operate Single Trust Accounts for our clients’ security, which are protected by the

strict Trust Account laws. Trust account operates for owners’ security with the following: • Single trust account protected by strict trust account laws • A fully computerised system that is protected by limited levels of access by authorised personnel • Computer data is duplicated daily; this backup is safely and securely stored off site. >>

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COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

Our role as a Strata

As an SMS Strata client Administration Fund Manager is to facilitate you will receive first-class • Statement of Income and undertake on financial reporting, so you and Expenditure - Capital behalf of owners their can see just how your Works Fund responsibilities as required investment is working • Notes to the under the Strata Schemes for you. Our reports are above accounts and Management Act, 2015. clearly set out and include: quarterly reports of the balance sheets, statements management of funds of income and expenditure supporting reports for administration fund and provided include: capital works fund and cash payment reports. We • Cash Payments Report - detailing every also offer cash receipts reporting, arrears reports, payment made on behalf of the Owners’ financial reports, financial updates and budgets. Corporation Reports produced for Strata Management • Cash Receipts Report - detailing monies Services include: received • Balance Sheet - with balances and account • Arrears Reports - detailing proprietors in arrears details of all monies held • Financial updates can be provided at any time • Statement of Income and Expenditure upon request

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COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

25 YEARS

TEGAN EADIE, SHAR REA, RENEE WATSON

Our role as a Strata Manager is to facilitate and undertake on behalf of owners their responsibilities as required under the Strata Schemes Management Act, 2015. As these requirements are complex as managing agents, owners delegate their responsibilities to a licensed agent. We provide free advice, direction and leadership to the Strata Committee and Owners' Corporation. Strata and community living often

WITH COLIN DENNIS

It is important to note that owners retain the final say in the function, management and control of their complex at all times.

brings people of diverse interests and backgrounds close together. Disagreements and disputes sometimes arise. Tolerance, understanding of others and communication are essential to harmonious living. Our team is experienced to assist in conflict resolution. It is important to note that owners retain the final say in the function, management and

COLIN AND VIKKI DENNIS

control of their complex at all times. SMS Coffs Harbour Pty Ltd specialises in residential, commercial, industrial, mixed use, neighbourhood and community associations. What defines SMS Strata from other strata management services? SMS Coffs Harbour Pty Ltd is regarded as an industry leader in NSW;

We have combined experience of more than 60 years; We offer meeting rooms at no additional cost; We have the resources and experience to look after your needs; Your Strata Manager is assisted by a dedicated support person; Due to our experience, we are able to assist in any difficult or unusual situations; and We offer free advice. >>

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COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

SHAR REA, ANDREW BENSON, KARA BOND

Who makes up your team at SMS Strata, and what experience do they bring to the business? Colin is responsible for mentoring in excess of 50 careers within the strata industry, including those of Kara Bond, Andrew Benson, Shar Rae and the late Michelle Dawson. All have played their part in the success of SMS Coffs Harbour Pty Ltd, each having 10 years and more experience working for the company. Kara recently returned, after family commitments, as General Manager of SMS Coffs Harbour. Kara joined the company in 2000 and, within a short time, was appointed Colin’s Personal Assistant. It was a role she held for more than 10 years. Kara has been involved in many projects, such as the acquisitions of multiple companies and the integration of new technology. Kara enjoys liaising with developers

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Colin is responsible for

second to none, and she and solicitors, assisting mentoring in excess of 50 has built a great rapport in the setup of their careers within the strata with clients over the development. industry, including those years. Andrew Benson is the of Kara Bond, Andrew What is important to company's Senior Strata Benson, Shar Rae and the know about buying Manager, joining in early late Michelle Dawson. into a strata? 2009. Before buying into a Andrew is licensed strata scheme, find out and offers a wealth of as much information as knowledge within the possible about the management of the scheme industry. His experience extends to Community itself; for example: Associations and the larger Owners' • Is there a strata manager? Corporations. Prior to joining SMS, Andrew's • Is the building properly insured? professional background was in banking, • Are there enough funds to cover long term finance, lending and mortgage broking. repairs and maintenance? Shar Rea is the company’s Senior Support • Are there any outstanding building works, or Administrator. Shar, who joined SMS Coffs are any planned in the near future? Harbour in 2009, has in-depth knowledge and • What are the strata by-laws? It is advisable to a real understanding of the Strata Schemes check the schemes by-laws, as they will affect Management Act. Shar’s people skills are

the way you will live in a scheme. What should people consider when choosing a strata management service? Experience, accountability, professionalism and friendly staff. How important is it to support local businesses? Over the past 25 years, our focus has been to support local businesses/trades. We have built a great rapport with them, and their understanding of our needs in getting the job done in an efficient and professional manner is important to our company. SMS Coffs Harbour would personally like to thank all of the businesses/trades for their support and professionalism over the past 25 years.

COMMUNITY AND STRATA SPECIALISTS

25 YEARS

N I A L S O M I T T E S Chris O’Brien Fishburn Watson & O’Brien Principal - Accredited Specialist Property Law “I have worked with and referred clients to SMS Coffs Harbour for over 20 years. I have always found Colin, Kara and all the staff very helpful, prompt, professional and cost effective."

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WITH COLIN DENNIS

Ion W. Wightman - Secretary, Creek Tower Strata Committee

“Creek Tower is a building consisting of 21 individually owned units, built some 43 years ago, it being the first high rise built on the North Coast. The Body Corporate has had a long history being managed by the SMS Group. “The current Strata Committee has been elected for two terms, being a committee of new individuals. On election in 2017, we were faced with considerable difficulties, including

building repairs, lift maintenance, community divisions, and various insurances.

Portal available to view our current financial position at any time has been an excellent tool for us.

“Working closely (and often on a day to day basis) with Renee Watson, we were able to sort through our problems with the benefit of excellent advice from SMS.

“Our Strata Committee has no hesitation in recommending SMS to other committees and, in particular, the professional and personable attendance of staff members. In our case we deal almost daily with Renee Watson, who is to be highly commended for the success we have achieved in solving our problems.”

“Drawing on your experience managing other Strata Corporations, we are confident that the advice we receive is invaluable. Moreover, the

Lorraine Booth “I have been involved with SMS Strata as an owner and as a member of an Executive Committee of three buildings for 10 years. Efficiency with arranging Work Orders with qualified, competent and reliable trades people gives peace of mind. Accountancy computer systems and reporting is professional. For the low management fees, I recommend SMS for owners to enjoy strata living.”

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S P E C I A L

F O C U S

F E A T U R E

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AMANDA LANGLANDS FROM LANGLANDS PROPERTY

real estate update. IS THE MARKET CHANGING? Yes, without a doubt; however, is the media hype correct that we are experiencing real estate pain? If we were in Sydney, yes, this could be considered a correct statement - depending on the suburb you live in.

he Australian property market is incredibly diverse, and it would be unreasonable to say that the market is decreasing, just because Sydney is experiencing a correction ... The same way it would have been an unfair assessment of the Australian property market to say it was

booming, because Sydney was experiencing ridiculous growth. Recent property sales information shows while Melbourne and Sydney have slowed, demand is creeping up in Perth. Although prices are still down from previous years, the increase in demand is now the third highest

BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

in Australia, after Hobart and Canberra. Brisbane is experiencing similar increases, also encouraged with recent jobs growth numbers. Whether you are an experienced investor or just looking at breaking into the market, there are still opportunities available for you. It is more important than ever to be informed about what your purchasing capacity is. What are the main things to be aware of when buying? Borrowing capacity challenges: banks are cracking down on loans, and people are seeing their borrowing capacity affected. You could be saving for years longer just to buy your first property, and there is pressure from banks to reduce the number of investment loans. Interest-Only Loans Could Be A Thing Of The Past: many investors are discovering that when they go to restructure their interestonly loans, they can no longer “afford” them based on new lending criteria. Is Negative Gearing On The Way Out: if negative gearing is abolished in the future, it’s going to open up a huge “affordability gap” for most investors. Like with any major change, these shifts in the property landscape present a huge opportunity for savvy buyers. If you arm yourself with the right strategies and act now, you can set yourself up to profit. With interest rates at their lowest for more

than 50 years, there are some great rates available. The best thing to do is to compare rates from all the lenders. When buying be prepared: have your finance pre-approved and know your comfortable purchase level - speak to your lending institution or a broker to get the best option for you. Understand your expenses when buying a home, such as additional costs for conveyancing, move costs and stamp duty. Research suburb profiles and economic growth potential of the suburb you’re looking to buy in and know how to buy: verbal offer vs. exchanging a contract. When selling understand: regardless of all the talk in the market, buyers will still offer the price they see as best value for the home in comparison to properties currently on the market. It is up to you to determine the price at which you are prepared to release the property. How you present your property is your purchaser’s first impression. Do a large tidy up inside and out, to ensure you “woo” buyers and impress them Control the controllable: Properties currently on the market for sale are for sale for a reason; the sellers are ready to move on to another stage of their lives. The simple fact is, life goes on regardless of what the macro influences are on property prices and if you are ready to sell, control what you can control.

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WITH

BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

GAVIN MORONEY

CHRISTMAS TECH Part One

With Christmas just around the corner, we have gathered together some tech gift ideas. Over the next two issues we will cover some of the best tech for Christmas, and we start with some of the big ticket items: the Nintendo Switch and the Dyson Supersonic hair dryer.

Tech Head

DYSON HAIR DRYER or that special person in your life Dyson have completely re-thought and re-designed the hair dryer, with their innovative Supersonic hair dryer.

NINTENDO SWITCH

or the family - Nintendo has continually strived to push how we perceive the traditional gaming console, and the Nintendo Switch takes a step into the future, smashing the boundary between home console and portable gaming. With a great library of games, including favourites like Mario and Zelda, the whole family will have fun with this. My personal favourite part of the Switch is no more TV hogging; if someone else wants to use the TV, you simply attach the two controllers (the Joy-Cons) to the left and right edges of the portable screen, remove it from the dock and boom, now you can continue your game without any disruptions. Hand held it plays

at 720 p, which is more than enough resolution I think, and docked runs at 1080 p. The Switch’s 6.2-inch, multi-touch, 720 p LCD screen is a beauty. Colour production is vibrant, and it’s bright enough to be played in indirect sunlight. The controls are really comfortable but when undocked and using a single joycon, it can be a little uncomfortable for someone who has bigger hands. I have to admit at first I thought this would be collecting dust compared to the other consoles I have, but now I have spent more time on the Switch than I care to disclose (thank you, Zelda). It’s just so much fun and, to my surprise, the wife has even been caught saying “just one more game” when playing Mario Kart!

They created a motor that was a fraction of the size of the motors used in traditional hair dryers, which meant they could completely change the shape, putting the motor into the handle, rather than the head - the idea being that the heaviest part of the dryer is held in your hand and the head is lighter and shorter to get in close to your hair, without having to hold your arms out wide. Personally, before this I wouldn’t have had the first clue about how to use a hair dryer, but my wife swears by it, and well … it just looks cool, makes wet hair not wet, and does it really fast! The feedback was that she said she found the Supersonic dryer much more comfortable to use, it packs a surprisingly powerful punch, is much quieter to run than her last dryer, and she likes the way it is really gentle on the hair, leaving it feeling soft and shiny.

MAKE OUR HOUSE A HOME

- NOW OPEN NEW STOCK IN STORE

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Get in touch today for a free measure and quote. 6653 3205 | info@sawtellkitchens.com.au |

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BUY â&#x20AC;˘ SELL â&#x20AC;˘ BUILD

East Coast Cabinets We have recently celebrated 30 years as members of the Housing Industry Association (HIA) and really value our involvement with them. Both the local branch and the organisation as a whole provide wonderful support not only with employee and legislation matters, but with fighting governments and authorities for better deals for our industry. I was one of the inaugural members of the Northern NSW Regional Committee and happily rejoined about six years ago as a voice for the subcontractors and the industry as a whole. Being able to participate in discussions on events and problems is a learning experience that gives great insight into what is happening around us. I grew up on the land, and our neighbours were our neighbours and friends. They were not our opposition. Accordingly, I treat the building industry the same and have enjoyed making many friends over the years and being able to assist and support them. We are very proud to have received the HIA NSW Kitchen of the Year (early 1990s) and the HIA NSW Northern Region Kitchen of the Year in 2017. Our cabinetwork has also been an integral inclusion in many building projects that have received awards over the years. None of this would have been possible if we were not members.

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BUY • SELL • BUILD - A SPECIAL FOCUS FEATURE

B LU E R I B B O N Homes Blue Ribbon Homes is a locally owned company that has been building homes on the Mid North Coast and surrounds for over 29 years. We are proud to boast a reputation of honest and reliable service to our clients, built with hard work and dedication. Design Flexibility At Blue Ribbon Homes we pride ourselves on offering our clients unique custom designed homes that will cost you no more than building from our extensive range of standard floor plans. You may already have some plans drawn up or maybe even just a sketch; either way, we are more than happy to quote on your plans and help develop your ideas. Free Site Inspection We can arrange a free pre-purchase site inspection of your land, providing you with the right advice to help with your land purchasing and building options. After discussing the requirements of your new home, we will develop your unique concept

plan. You’ll then be provided with a full and comprehensive itemised quote; you’ll see exactly what we have included in the price, which means there’ll be absolutely no hidden extras. Challenging Site? No worries! Challenging sites are our speciality. We can achieve the desired outcome for our clients at an affordable price. If it fits your land, lifestyle and budget, rest assured, we can build it for you. Stress Free Building Some people consider building a new home to be stressful, but at Blue Ribbon Homes we make it easy and enjoyable, as it should be! Our experience and skills will give you the confidence to know you’re in great hands, leaving you free to enjoy the exciting experience of building your new home. At Blue Ribbon Homes we can make your dream home a reality! Call us today for a chat on (02) 6651 8144.

TAY LO R D A N D , Licensed Conveyancer Purchasing or selling a home is a daunting experience and is often the biggest financial decision a person will ever make. From first home buyers to seasoned investors, Taylor Dand at Simply Conveyancing prides herself on advising her clients in plain English of the laws and processes surrounding the transfer of property. Taylor grew up on the Coffs coast, joining the Simply Conveyancing team three years ago whilst studying a Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Criminology at the University of New England. Now a fully qualified Licensed Conveyancer, Taylor’s passion for the Conveyancing profession means she provides competent and humble advice to all her clients. When not at work, Taylor is playing rugby union with the local Coffs Harbour Snappers Women’s team, practising yoga or spending

time on the farm. Purchasing her own first home just this year, she is fully aware of the overwhelming emotions which come with buying or selling property. With the combined experience of the Simply Conveyancing team, Taylor makes the process of purchasing or selling property an easy and joyful experience. Taylor’s approach towards her clients is the definition of the Simply Conveyancing tradition of approaching every matter with all the respect and diligence that is required. Her clients love her positive and energetic attitude, as well as her desire to provide good old-fashioned customer service. For anyone who is considering buying, selling or transferring property, do yourself a favour and contact Taylor Dand at Simply Conveyancing, for a professional fuss-free service from start to finish.

Conveyancing

MADE SIMPLE simply conveyancing Ground Floor, 24 Moonee Street, P.O.Box 546 Coffs Harbour P (02) 6652 4233 | F (02) 6652 4266 coffs@simplyconveyancing.net.au | www.simplyconveyancing.com.au

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Coffs Coast P R O P E R T Y

G U I D E

G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour

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G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour A passion for building beautiful homes and providing exceptional customer service has seen local builders Rick and Susan Fischer rise to the top of their industry in the decade that they have been G.J. Gardner Homes’ franchisees.

ell us about your business … How long have you been operating? Rick and Susan Fischer have owned and operated G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour since 2012, and in this time have made quite an impact in the local area and within their industry groups. However, their story doesn’t begin there. In 2006, aged in their 20s, Rick and Susan Fischer took on the opportunity to become G.J. Gardner Homes’ youngest franchisees. Passionate and dedicated to the G.J. brand, together they successfully ran the Clarence Valley business for six years, before taking on an opportunity to also acquire the Coffs Harbour franchise in 2012. Despite running a busy business and raising a family with three children, these gogetters continue to reach new and greater heights and proudly hang numerous awards on their walls, including Susan’s recent win at the Master Builders Awards for Women in Building (Residential). They’re also proud community supporters and always happy to support worthy charities. Tell us about your team and their area of expertise? Rick is a fifth generation builder with incredible industry insights and Susan runs the accounts and marketing, with a background in design and furnishings. Together with their team of experienced building professionals, they share a common passion for anything design and construction and their overarching goal is to deliver

beautiful new homes on time, on budget and with the best quality service you can experience. After watching his father and grandfather both run long-term, prosperous building businesses, Rick understands that integrity comes first. “I understand how important honesty and transparency is through any business engagement - let alone one that involves the biggest investment of your life - building your new home,” said Rick. What services do G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour provide? What are the stand out features or the benefits of building with G.J. Gardner Homes? By working as a custom homebuilder, G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour are able to build a unique home tailored to their clients’ needs. Whether you want to choose from their 150+ new home designs or design your own home from scratch; they have a multitude of ways to make your new home feel unique to your style. “In every home we build, no matter if the detail is small or significant, every element is important to the client. Treating every request and detail with this ethos in mind is how a project should be handled by a builder and is what builds trust with the owner,” explained Rick. Understanding that it’s your new home, and you’ll want it to reflect your lifestyle, your tastes and your budget, the G.J. Gardner new home consultants are experts in being able to make changes and customisations, whilst taking into account

I understand how important honesty and transparency is through any business engagement - let alone one that involves the biggest investment of your life -

Facebook broadcast different sized land and on October 6th. budgets. Darren is a “The best thing thought leader, about building a custom influencer and home with us is that ambassador for high we will always offer building your new home. quality products and a competitive fixed brands. His extensive term contract along expertise, combined with your new chosen with his understated home design. Our approach have made him a household name, fixed term contracts give you the certainty known not only for professionalism, integrity and assurance that your new home will be and industry expertise, but for being a delivered on time and on budget,” explained trusted Australian personality. Susan. Working tirelessly on these designs They also take the time up front to analyse alongside the G.J. Gardner architects, Darren your build site, to ensure no unwanted Palmer hand-picked every aspect of these surprises emerge down the track. designer homes, right down to the furniture “From soil tests, to insulation and drainage and styling. issues, we help you get the facts up front, The six designs in the Tailored Range avoid common traps and potentially save are “Beach”, “Contemporary Australian”, thousands on your building costs,” said Rick. “Japandi” - an evolution of Scandi and Tell us about some of the new, exciting Japanese style, “Hamptons”, “Hotel Luxe”, projects you are working on now and in and “Urban”. the future. The designs can be viewed at the Coffs The latest offering from G.J. Gardner Harbour office using the industry-leading Homes is an incredible collaboration with Smart TV technology, that provides an Darren Palmer (from The Block fame) immersive HD 3D walk through experience producing six exclusive home designs and of these and many more of the G.J. Gardner colour palettes known as “Tailored - Inspired home designs. Home Collections”, that launched via live

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G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour How important is sustainability when building a new home? Being Coffs Harbour locals who love the beautiful climate and coastal lifestyle, the G.J. Gardner team take into consideration the environment and the natural beauty of this region when planning the build of a new home. “Working with a brand like G.J. Gardner Homes gives you the flexibility and the options to create a home that is friendly to the environment, whilst keeping modern and stylish features throughout,” explains Rick. Considering options from solar panels to shower heads, Rick and Susan can help you explore energy saving options that not only save the environment, but also save on running costs. With reporting estimates

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showing that an 8-star energy efficient house can potentially save 40% on heating and cooling costs, this is something to seriously consider. What are the top three things that people should consider when looking to build a new house? When it comes to building your dream home, there’s a lot of excitement but also a lot of options and choices to make. To help calm the confusion, Susan’s top three things to focus on for new homes are: • Choose a design theme to run throughout the interior and exterior of the house. Once this is chosen, everything else seems to fall into place and makes other decisions much easier to make. • The kitchen is key: the kitchen is the heart of your home, and a good design adds long-term value.

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Today’s intelligent technology can make your

home extra comfortable and eﬃcient, with the ability to ﬁnely tune lighting, heating/cooling, audio visual equipment and home security ...

The key here is to make sure it’s functional, looks great and has long-lasting appeal. Choosing durable materials like reconstituted stone benchtops will stand you in good stead, as will soft-closing drawers. Butler’s pantries are in high demand, because they add space, privacy and value. For extra design flair, think about creative splashbacks, display shelves and drop lighting. Smart storage is another consideration, including swing out storage and corner cupboards. • New technology: today’s intelligent technology can make your home extra comfortable and efficient, with the ability to finely tune lighting, heating/cooling, audio visual equipment and home security - often via

an app on your smartphone. Consider how you could make your home “smarter”. Where are the hot spots to build on the Coffs Coast? With much residential growth predicted for Coffs Harbour City over the next 20 years, as much as 116.9% increase in some areas according to .ID “the population experts”, Rick and Susan look forward to helping build more dream houses for Coffs Coast residents. Rick and Susan’s top picks include suburbs where they’ve recently build beautiful homes that have been recognised for industry awards, namely Moonee Beach, Safety Beach and Sapphire Beach.

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Susan Fischer

Since conception, what has been the most important thing to you as a local trade? G.J. Gardner Homes are renowned for being trusted locals, and for Rick and Susan Fischer that means supporting the local community through both their work and social lives, as well as giving back to worthy charities. “We love working and living on the Coffs Coast, and the best part about that is we get to really know our clients and help them build their dream homes in this region that we love. “We’re all about locals helping locals, and this extends to our choice of trades and suppliers as well,” explained Rick. Susan is also a committee member of the local Surf Lifesaving Club and can often be found at various networking opportunities

We love working and living on

building fun and the Coﬀs Coast, and the best meaningful relationships part about that is we get to advocates for this across the region. really know our clients industry. Rick is also an active and help them build “There are a lot of patrolling member at in this their dream homes areas within the building Sawtell SLSC, as well region that we love. industry that are relatively as an age manager and complex and challenging, coach for the junior surf with constant change livesavers/nippers. at both regulatory and What are some commercial level. I prefer challenges that the to adopt a partnership industry has faced, and how have you approach and ensure every assistance is overcome these? provided to clients and partners to deliver the Despite the building industry seemingly desired outcome in a timely manner, and I find always changing with rules, regulations and a professional and personal touch makes all property market fluctuations, Rick and Susan the difference,” explains Susan. remain positive and have become strong

How do prospective clients contact you? If you’re interested in exploring the new custom home options from G.J. Gardner Homes, or you’d like to know more about the Tailored Darren Palmer Range, phone: (02) 6691 3509 or visit our sales office at: 171 Orlando St, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450 G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour currently service the following locations: • Coffs Harbour • Bellingen • Macksville • Nambucca Heads • Sapphire Beach • Woolgoola • Sandy Beach • Corindi Beach • Safety Beach • Emerald Beach • Korora Beach

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G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour Tell us about your 2018 MBA - Women in Construction Award. At the recent Master Builders Awards night in Ballina, Susan Fischer of G.J. Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour was named the winner of the Women in Building - Residential Award, recognising her outstanding career and dedication to the community. As her name was announced, the Master Builders Awards presenters shared the key pieces in Susan’s submission that saw her take out the award. “Susan Fischer's nomination highlighted her

outstanding career. She has achieved so much in a short time and is respected at all levels of her business. “Her dedication to staff, G.J. Gardner brand and her local industry were apparent. The women in building award judges felt Susan’s was an excellent impact to acknowledge within the residential building. Susan is not only doing great things within her business, but is also supporting the outer community and finds the time to volunteer and raise funds for local charities,” shared the Master Builders awards team.

Reece Coffs Harbour and Coffs Harbour South proudly supports GJ Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour 177a Orlando Street (02) 6652 4277

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How does this award have a positive impact on women in the building industry? Being recognised for this award and being able to proudly display it at the office, Susan is thankful for that this award exists and is highlighting the women in this male dominated industry. “I look forward to the future influence of more and more women joining us in the building industry,” said Susan. “Winning this award is a boost for me to know that my efforts are recognised by others, but it’s also a way for me to

encourage other to set core values for not A good mentor can help you women to reach for only yourself, but also learn from your mistakes, their goals and to step for your whole business they can objectively into other industries approach. observe how you they may not have These are the Core operate, provide you with thought about,” Values Susan Fischer a glimpse around a blind added Susan. stands by: corner, or point out ways you What advice to • Build honest and open could improve. you have for other relationships women in the • Create a “can do’’ building industry? attitude As a woman • Deliver sensitivity progressing in the building and construction through customer focus industry, Susan explains that it is important • Embrace the local community

Stoddart Group is the often unseen but ever-present backbone of the construction of a new home. We are proud to partner with GJ Gardner Homes Coffs Harbour and we look forward to working with Rick, Susan and the whole GJ team well into the future.

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• Create a positive team and have fun • Be hands on and proactive When asked what she would recommend up and coming business owners to do to help them grow and achieve, Susan suggested finding a great mentor. “A good mentor can help you learn from your mistakes, they can objectively observe how you operate, provide you with a glimpse around a blind corner, or point out ways you could improve. Don’t fall into the trap of believing that you have to do it all on your own,” shared Susan.

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Our team is here to make life easier The faces may be different, but the things we believe in are the same. No matter where you go across Australia, the moment you set foot in any Aveo Freedom Aged Care community you’ll meet people like Sophie, Shane and Lisetta. Shane will take care of the garden and help out with odd jobs around the home. Lisetta is a qualified nurse and is passionate about keeping you happy and healthy. And Sophie is always on hand with a smile to help with day-to-day chores around your home. They’re just a small part of our big team who’ll make sure you enjoy the comfort, security and support to live well everyday.

Call 1800 984 840 to book an appointment today and see what makes Aveo Freedom Aged Care Coffs Harbour different.

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