Port Macquarie Focus i99

Feature Story GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

February 2014 // issue 99

Noble Endeavours

focusinterview.

Mark Robinson

Ascot Park may be one of the last significant residential land developments within the Port Macquarie Town precinct - it offers accessibility to nearby schools and medical facilities, whilst being only six kilometres from the CBD. Developer Mark Robinson talked with FOCUS about this exciting project.

M

ark, tell us a little about yourself and your relationship with Port Macquarie ...

My parents retired here about 13 years ago from Gulargambone, which is near Gilgandra, north of Dubbo.

Obviously I visited them over this period of time, which is how I grew to love the Port Macquarie area.

How did you come to be involved in the development of Ascot Park?

I was here one weekend and was working on a few projects throughout other parts of Australia at the time; but, I came across a sign by Real Property on a town house project which encouraged me to give them a call. So, I met with Michael Marsh, and we formed a relationship. Michael’s expertise is in land parcels and development projects.

Tell us about the location of this development, Ascot Park.

It is located on the south west side of town near the Base Hospital and the Lake Innes Coles - it is probably the last major development that is considered to be part of the town precinct.

What infrastructure is nearby that enhances the appeal of this location?

From a work point of view, certainly the Port Macquarie Base Hospital and future medical suites site, Charles Sturt University, and the site is also placed between St Columba Anglican School and St Joseph’s Regional College.

Stage one of the development features

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quite oversized blocks of land. Can you elaborate more on why that is and what else is special about this development?

Most blocks are roughly 18 - 20 metres wide.

As the subdivision took so long to get approved, the lots were actually designed over 10 years ago - and back then the lots in general were bigger than lots these days.

Historically in other developments, the lots over time have become smaller - your average size in this area being around 600 sqm; whereas, some of these are up to 1,100 sqm.

The land has been in the Charley Brothers family for 112 years, so the owners and the surveyors told me that this was a very special parcel of land. If you look at the trees that grow on the land, they are predominantly Tallowood and good quality hardwood timber; there are koalas and deer and kangaroos. It will never be built out by other developments around it, as it has the golf course zoning next to it and then that runs into National Park, which in turn meets with Innes Lake.

How have the environmental considerations of the flora and fauna been integrated into the development's design?

That was, of course, part of the DA process.

The Charley Brothers ensured all the timber was surveyed and all the core koala habitat trees were all surveyed and recorded. Through the development design process we could then keep as many of those trees as possible.

Through the development we have actually added more trees; we made the decision

to protect those trees, even by so as far as are looking at making the playground more moving the road through the estate to protect versatile for a range of ages. an older growth tree, and when we put the What are the incentives to buy now in services into the blocks for electrical etc. we Stage 1? actually dug under the trees or went around We have specifically priced the blocks in them in order to protect them. stage one to attract sales - we are charging We hear the children’s playgrounds are almost the same for the smaller blocks as we going to be something special, and at an are on the bigger blocks. investment of just over $500,000, We are spending over $300,000 what will they include? in landscaping alone in Stage When I looked at the 1, and $500,000 on the land and the amount of playground - so anyone on d te ca lo parkland around the who buys or invests is It the south west estate, and taking into in stage one can be ar the ne n w to of de si consideration my own assured that as the d the Base Hospital an it is experiences with my development and sLake Innes Cole small children, I found new stages are sold, or aj m st probably the la is that the playgrounds the value of their at th t developmen of rt pa that are often built be blocks will increase. to considered .” ct in ec do not meet the needs How can we find pr n the tow of the children - there is out more? never enough variety.

We are having an Open There might be a slide or Day on Saturday February 15, swing, and that is about it - but 11am - 3pm on site. to get children engaged and keep them Ryley Batt will be there, as well as stimulated, they need to be able to move Mark Stone from the Billabong with some from one play piece to the next and back snakes and crocodiles; there will be a free again, without getting bored.

Mister Whippy van and sausage sizzle, plus We’re considering a flying fox, and a ropes activities such as tree planting for the kids. course for older children and splitting the All of our associate local builders will also be playground up into specific areas for age there to mingle and answer any questions. groups based on children’s ages. You see, To enquire about the Open Day, lots when you go to your average playground available or builders who are offering house and you have a 2 or 3 year old and they are and land packages, call Mark Robinson on trying to play with a 6 year old, they tend to 0412 709 101. get knocked over or pushed off etc. - so we Thanks Mark.

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editor's note.

WHAT’S ON ART HISTORY LECTURE SERIES Wednesday 12 February, 5.30pm

ORIGINS OF IMPRESSIONISM Like all other styles of art, impressionism did not occur in a fixed period. In this lecture, we see how impressionists sought to “rescue painting from photography” and we also encounter the artists who anticipated impressionism.

Claude Monet, Haystacks, (sunset), 1890–1891 (detail), Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

editor.

from the

Wednesday 26 February, 5.30pm

jay beaumont.

SUPER-SIZED ART We are sometimes amazed by how large some paintings and sculptures are. This lecture looks at some super-sized art, including the temples at Abu Simbel, the Colossus of Rhodes, the Eiffel Tower, Rembrandt’s Nightwatch and Muecks’s Big Boy. We will discuss why some artists have made things which no one can avoid seeing.

Welcome to the February issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS. et ready for Beatles fever! Over the annual five day event there will be Beatles music, a classic car show, Rock 'n' Roll dancers, free entertainment on the Town Green, a dinner dance and much more. Check out page 40 for more info to be part of the fun!

G

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Although the 'busy' summer period is now finished, there is still plenty to see and do around town. This month we caught up with 2012 The Voice winner, Karise Eden, who will be performing at Laurieton United Services Club on February 14; The Searchers, who will perform at Panthers on February 7; and the talented Australian Chamber Orchestra present something a little different at the Glasshouse this month, with ACO Virtual. There's something for every musical taste ...

BLUES AND BBQ FESTIVAL Tickets are now on sale to Port Macquarie's very first Blues and BBQ Festival to be held on 29 March. Live bands will be playing from 2pm - 9pm on the Town Green, featuring Bob Log III from the USA and Charlie A'Court from Canada, with food trucks serving American style BBQ food throughout the day. To find out

contacts.

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

ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors.

While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 86005 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2009-2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

more and book your tickets, visit www.bluesandbbq.com.au THE WEDDING ISSUE Our Annual Wedding guide is included in this issue, and we would like to thank Matt from Matthew J Photography for another amazing cover shot! The couple featured are Jye and Megan Nancarrow. Be sure to have a look at the feature starting on page 44 if you are getting married or just want to see what local vendors can offer.

Louise Bourgeois, Maman, outside the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao Spain (detail).

Photographer: Doalex

Wednesday 12 March, 5.30pm

FOOD IN ART We all enjoy food, and some like preparing it. But why have so many artists left us with paintings, mosaics and sculptures of the things we eat? In this lecture we see works of art which have decorated dining rooms, stimulated the appetite and celebrated food, from Roman times to the present.

OFF TO THAILAND I'm off to Thailand on Feb 14 to participate in a 500 km in 5 day charity bike ride! It should be challenging, to say the least! Dirt roads, the heat, a foreign language - nonetheless, it will be worth it. I'll be riding with my father, Paul, and my brother, Dale, to raise funds for Hands Across the Water - a charity who aids an orphanage for local children as a result of the Boxing Day tsunami. To donate, visit: www.handsacrossthewater.org.au

Giuseppe Arcimboldo, Vertumnus. 1590-1591 (detail). Oil on wood.

Skoklosters Slott, Balsta, Sweden

ABOUT THE SPEAKER David de Giustino is a distinguished lecturer of Modern History, who has had an eminent career teaching in several universities. He now divides his time between Port Macquarie and Port Sanilac in Michigan. The author of three books, he enjoys sharing his cosmopolitan knowledge of Art and Architecture in an engaging and informal way.

Jay Beaumont – Editor jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Jay Beaumont

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Photos by Jack Saltmiras

focusinterview.

With 26 million people in the Philippines living on less than $1.55 a day and 8 million living on less than .50c a day, to say life can be somewhat of a struggle for these people is an understatement. Ian McKay spends one month out of every three living in the Philippines and through the organisation Noble Endeavours and the assistance of other community-oriented individuals and businesses, he is striving to make a real difference …

i Ian. Share a little bit of your background with us – when did you move to the area, and what’s your career history?

My great grandparents were pioneer settlers at Lorne, with my mother born and raised at Ross Glen. I lived most of my life on the Central Coast and only moved here in 2009 but with so much history, it was like ‘coming home.’

I have never been afraid to have a go at something new and had a number of career changes during my working life. I was a Qantas Steward during the 1970s and set up and ran a large nursery and tea house on the Central Coast in the 1980s.

In the 1990s I established Harvest Art Australia to provide handcrafted Australian glass awards and gifts to Corporate, Government and Association clients. This business, now called Noble Awards, continues to help support the Noble Endeavours project.

When and why did you establish Noble Endeavours?

My wife, Jan, and I had the first of many trips to the Philippines in 1999 and always felt a great love for the people.

In January 2008, Jan collapsed in an isolated area of Mindanao, Philippines, and the doctors were unsure whether they could stabilise her enough to airlift her back to Australia. In the hospital room in the Philippines, she said to me, “I am not afraid to die, but I am afraid to live and not fulfill what is in my heart”. She then asked, “What can we do now, Ian?” ... and so the vision that would become ‘Noble Endeavours’ was born.

Jan’s battle with cancer ended in March 2010, but the legacy continues to grow and prosper.

What are the key aims or objectives of the organisation?

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Noble Endeavours seeks to enable marginalised cultures and communities in the Philippines to be self-sustaining and self-determining.

We have developed a 5 year Community Development model called the HEALS program, which covers Health, Education, Agriculture, Landlessness and Sustainability.

What areas in the Philippines has Noble Endeavours visited – and why were these sites chosen specifically?

The village of Datu Sandungun is in North Cotabato, Philippines, and is at the centre of five tribal communities in great need with high rates of infant and maternal mortality, illiteracy, unsafe water and malnutrition. The Philippines has 26 million people living on less than $1.55 a day and 8 million living on less than .50c a day. These are the ultra poor, and these are the people Noble Endeavours is working with.

When I first visited this area, many of the children did not even have clothing, and they had no opportunity to attend school.

In the past 5 years we have built a Community Centre and Primary School with Health Centre and Agricultural Training Farm.

When was your last trip to the Philippines?

How long did you stay, and what were some of the projects you completed while you were there?

I returned from the Philippines in December and generally spend one month in every three living there. While I was there, we were working on two new classrooms and a computer learning centre.

I like to get my hands dirty, and I enjoy seeing the school farm expanding and the mothers working together in our FAITH garden (Food Always in the Home). I have a great team there and as long as we can keep meeting our budgets, the work is ongoing.

What are some of the things that have affected you the most – in either a positive or

a negative way – while working overseas? generations ...

I was asked by a father at the school in At a family level, this addresses food security, December could we help, as his son needed a and a unique share farm system with NE will blood transfusion. I asked our staff what would provide financial sustainability for all NE services. happen if we did not find the money, and I was This is a very repeatable model, but to date we told he would die. We found the money and his have concentrated our efforts on proving and life was saved, but the life and death decisions refining the model in Mindanao. Planning is now are a constant part of working in these remote underway to expand into another 5 communities areas. It is hard not to get emotionally involved, in the region of the Philippines recently devastated but everything we face together as a community is

by Typhoon Haiyan. binding us all closer together.

What are the goals for the Who are some of the organisation over the next 12 companies/individuals that months? have helped support you The program is working I returned from in the Philippines with Noble Endeavours? well, but we need to generally Most of our partners continue to expand and D ecember and th in on spend one m until now have been reach more people, but e. g ther every three livin we individuals and smaller to do that we need to e, While I was ther businesses who have broaden our partner base o tw were working on d believed in what we have here in Australia - which an new classrooms been doing. More recently, will give us increased ning a computer lear a large international levels of funds available. I centre .” consulting company, ‘Bain welcome any opportunities and Co’, has been providing Pro to partner with individuals and Bono support to develop a level of businesses in Australia. clarity and focus for NE as it moves through How can people support Noble the ‘graduation’ phase of Project One and Endeavours, and what’s the best way to begins to look at scaling up new projects and contact you? attracting new donors and corporate partners.

How you can help: all donations are tax How sustainable do you feel the Noble deductible - support the project financially; Endeavours model of community individual/corporate partnerships opportunities development is? Could what the organisation available; volunteer and hold fundraising events. has achieved in the Philippines be duplicated Ian is available to speak to groups. elsewhere?

Become a client of Noble Awards. This means One of the greatest challenges facing the for every award purchased through ‘Noble traditional owners of the land right across the Awards’, a donation is made to Noble Endeavours.

Philippines is landlessness. Over 95% of the 1 Award = 1 child = 1 week. This provides clean families represented in our school have mortgaged water - hot meal daily - free education.

Visit: www.nobleendeavours.org or call Ian their lands, and many families have lost their lands McKay on 0448 844 526. completely. We are working with the community Thanks Ian. Interview by Jo Atkins. to provide funding and secure their land for future

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inside this

Issue 99 - February 2014

12.

12.

Jess Pryles 'Burger Mary' Better known as her hardcore carnivore alter-ago, Jess is a true BBQ aficionado and Honorary Texan. Having years of experience eating and studying Texas BBQ, including an internship with a third generation Pitmaster, she returns to Texas bi-annually to constantly refresh her palate and knowledge base.

Aust Chamber orchestra Tim Calnin, General Manager of the Australian Chamber orchestra (ACO) gives us the lowdown on a very unique audiovisual installation which is visiting the Glasshouse from January 31 - 23 February.

22.

Kylie Bulmer

62.

Kylie Bulmer is a woman on a mission … well, several missions, in fact! This hardworking, community-minded local has plans to fundraise for several worthy causes over the next 18 months or so – and with her go-getting attitude, the sky’s the limit.

18. Victor William Latham 41. Denis Moore 60. Roller Derby 75. Bonsai Club 76. Vintage Ports

usual suspects.

the

14. what’s on for February 24. eat featuring local restaurants 29. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 34. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 73. starguide with Terri 77. travel with Susie Boswell 78. tourism with Janette Hyde 80. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 91. real estate with Greg Trembath 103. landcare with Estelle telle Gough

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

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

greater port macquarie focus 7

focusinterview.

PIRATES TO PINAFORE - FIVE PERFORMERS, ONE SHOW, ALL OF THE GILBERT AND SULLIVAN MUSICALS IN 89 MINUTES. THE TAGLINE FOR THIS PRODUCTION SAYS IT ALL, REALLY ... IT’S A MUSICAL AND VISUAL FEAST FOR THE EYES AND EARS WHICH WILL GRACE THE STAGE OF THE GLASSHOUSE IN MARCH. IT’S ALSO A FAMILY FRIENDLY SHOW, SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES. TWO OF THE SHOW’S STARS, CHRIS MCKENNA AND PHILIP GOULD, GIVE US THE INSIDE SCOOP …

C H R I S h here did th the id idea come from to stage such a unique production?

This is the twentieth year we [Promac Productions] have performed various mixes and indeed, entire productions of Gilbert and Sullivan musicals. We have in previous years performed the entire Mikado, the entire Pirates of Penzance, and the entire HMS Pinafore with five and six actors respectively, so we thought it might be time to see if we could have a go at putting the entire catalogue of Gilbert and Sullivan together in one show - as seen through the eyes of the men who wrote them.

And not only are you responsible for the production side of things, you’re also starring in the play as Gilbert and Sullivan’s manager, Richard D'Oyly Carte. It sounds busy!

It does get busy, I can tell you that! Personally, for myself, Promac Productions is in its thirtieth year of producing musicals and shows that tour around Australia, primarily concentrating on daytime entertainment.

My history goes right back to 1984, when I was 20 and a very great lady of Australian music, or Australian theatre in those days, Betty Pounder, was based at the Victorian Arts Centre; she came up with the concept of Morning Melodies at the Melbourne Concert Hall where she asked her dear friend, the great Australian performer June Bronhill, to perform in a trial program. Well, the Concert Hall sold out 5,000 seats over two performances in ten days and from there, Morning Melodies - some theatres called it Morning Music - was born … and now it’s performed in theatres from Cairns to Hobart, and from Margaret River to Port Macquarie.

So, I’ve been very fortunate enough to produce a lot of that entertainment for older Australians; however, at the same time branching out and 8 greater port macquarie focus.

M C K E N N A producing d i more meatier ti and d more produced stuff like Gilbert and Sullivan.

I’ve had a passion for G&S ever since I was in the Australian Boys Choir myself at the age of 10, and even then Gilbert and Sullivan was often done in schools. And then, of course, in 1984 the Victorian Arts Centre also produced the Broadway version of The Pirates of Penzance starring Jon English, which Simon Gallaher’s company SG Productions re-imagined in 1994 where, funnily enough, I was the company manager of that Australian tour.

So Gilbert and Sullivan got a big resurgence in Australia in the late ’80s/early ’90s … and then the offshoot of that, I guess, is my company, where we tour the smaller versions. But to do the entire catalogue, you need to have pretty multitalented people … and we’ve got them!

Your character, Richard, what’s he like?

Richard D’Oyly Carte was the man who basically put them [Gilbert and Sullivan] together as a partnership, and then, had the unenviable task of managing the two of them, because Gilbert and Sullivan did not like each other. They communicated by letter only, they rarely saw each other in person, and Sullivan would write the music and then Gilbert would write the dialogue!

And, then, of course, we have the wonderful soprano, Alison Jones … she’s perfect for the role of Leonora Braham. Leonora Braham was the first soprano Gilbert and Sullivan ever employed; she was a beautiful singer, a beautiful performer, who had a slight drinking problem. It was hilarious!

It sounds like it’s a whole barrel of laughs!

Yeah, there is a whole barrel of laughs - and a few surprises as well. We do take a couple of left turns in the show, but it’s a great show and it’s suitable for the whole family. It’s set in Gilbert’s study, and basically it’s them reminiscing on their past glories and past misfortunes, and then Leonora appears and sings beautiful songs as well as … you know!

Thanks Chris.

P H I L I P i Phili Philip. How H did you get your start in the entertainment industry?

Basically, I’ve been in the entertainment industry since I was seven. I started out doing dancing at the Olive Wallace dance school, which is in Melbourne … I got into things like Noddy Goes to the Moon, which was my first Pantomime at the age of seven at Her Majesty’s Theatre in Melbourne, and then after that it was things like Fame, Oliver, and then, of course, Young Talent Time came along. I did 5 ½ years of television and things like More Canterbury Tales … then Tony in West Side Story, and after that I went over to England … I got into 42nd Street at the Palladium Theatre.

I played Billy Lawlor there for 18 months and in between the times of me being in London (I was in London for 14 years on and off, going backwards and forwards to Australia doing things like HMS Pinafore) I came back to South Pacific, Crazy for You, a Young Talent Time concert in Sydney, where they had their 15th birthday …

It’s been quite a great career that I’ve had!

I understand there’s a bit of a record that still stands in terms of your West End performances?

It’s to do with playing the part of Billy Lawlor in 42nd Street; it’s apparently the longest running Australian performer in a lead in a musical on London’s West End … I think this is more of a thing between Australians who have popped over to London, rather than an official thing …

What’s it been like for you playing Arthur Sullivan in Pirates to Pinafore? He’s an interesting character.

Yeah, very interesting indeed. He was

G O U L D l i l d in i everything; thi always involved he wanted it to be very important, his music. He wanted to actually be more than he was writing sometimes, and that’s why he went into the oratorio stuff for a while there; he wanted to show that he could write things other than just light, frothy bubbly sort of operetta music … He always wrote fantastic melodies, he was the Pop writer of the day, really and of course, Gilbert was a fantastic lyricist. His lyrics were just sublime. He was very, very clever …

I think Arthur Sullivan was a great character; he was always arguing with Gilbert.

They were quite feisty with each other - but it was a love/hate relationship I think, the whole time they were together.

I love playing the character, because it gives you an insight into the music itself - and that’s the great thing for the audience: they’re able to see what the characters were like, who they liked themselves, what sort of music they liked and how they got on together …

There’s some great surprises in the show too that the audience will love, that I can’t tell you … it’s just a hugely funny show at times.

There are some honest truths that come out in there too.

Thanks Philip.

Interviews by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See Pirates to Pinafore at the Glasshouse on February 9 at 2pm.

Tickets: $29.90 adult, $25.90 concession.

Call 6581 8888 or visit glasshouse.org.au

greater port macquarie focus 9

focusinterview.

FROM WINNING THE VOICE TO A NEW ALBUM, MY JOURNEY, TO TOURING AUSTRALIA-WIDE, SINGER/ SONGWRITER KARISE IS TELLING HER OWN STORIES ...

• Karise Eden • ell us a little about yourself - before you became the winner of The Voice.

The person I was before winning The Voice is the same person I am now. TV shows don’t make a person; they just make them known to more people. Anyway, I grew up on the Central Coast of NSW, and music played a big role in my life growing up – my sister and I would sing over the records of our parents, uncles, and neighbours. To be heard over the stereo we had to sing really loud, which probably helped me develop a big voice. My aunty worked for some music festivals on the Central Coast and I got a few gigs at those, plus I did a bit of session singing.

What did singing mean to you back then?

Singing has always made me feel good, and it’s been a kind of release for me.

Some people go running, others punch bags in a gym, I sing. When I was younger, I didn’t understand why punching out a big note could make me cry, even shake, but it made me feel really alive - so I kept at it. When I was old enough to understand the lyrics I was singing, I was hooked for life.

You have been very busy since your win on The Voice. What has been the highlight event/milestone for you so

10 greater port macquarie focus.

far? are dead, but those who are still with Probably playing Blues Festival last year. us include Tom Waits, Gary Clark Jr, and I played the main stage, and the tent was Chris Stapleton. completely full with about 4,000 people.

You are heading off on tour and will It was a blast! be visiting us in February. How far and You released an Album My Journey. wide will you be travelling?

How was the experience of I’ll be playing just a few putting together your shows in TAS, NSW, first album, and what VIC, SA, WA. did you learn?

What are you It was recorded looking When I was very quickly, forward ’t younger, I didn but I enjoyed it to most understand why note anyway. I had about all big punching out a never recorded the live y, cr could make me made an album shows? it t bu even shake, so e iv al professionally It’s been ly al me feel re ” it. before, so I a while at I kept learned my way since I’ve around the studio played any and how professional shows, so I’m producers and engineers looking forward work. I also learned how to performing, plain important it is to have a good band. and simple. I’m also looking Have you collaborated with any forward to playing small, other artists yet? intimate shows with stripped back Yes, I sang on Rod Stewart’s Christmas production. We’ll be playing as a three album, I performed on stage with Pete piece - which is a great way to trial new Murray and wrote in London and LA with songs, because songwriting becomes some great writers – some who are also more of the focus when there is less artists themselves – I won’t mention those instrumentation. names until my new album comes out.

Looking into 2014, what do you have Who would you love to work with? lined up work wise?

Many of the artists I’d like to work with The main thing is to record my new

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album of original songs and get out there to promote it.

Since being on The Voice, what have you learnt about yourself as a singer?

In the past year I’ve done lots of songwriting, and I’ve learned that singing my own stories is what it’s all about. I’ve learned that I am a singer/songwriter, not just a singer. That’s been a massive realisation for me.

For other young singers, what advice would you give them about overcoming challenges as an unsigned artist?

Everybody’s path is different, so don’t try to copy anybody else’s success story.

Perform regularly, seek out different experiences, grab opportunities with both hands when they come, but don’t expect opportunities to fall in your lap – you’ve gotta get out there and make something of yourself.

Thanks Karise.

the plug!

See Karise Eden at LUSC on FEBRUARY 14th, at 8.30PM Tickets: $35.00 adult, $20.00 under 18.

Or call 6559 9110

focusinterview.

J e s s • P r y l e s

Better known as her hardcore carnivore alter-ago, Jess Pryles is a true BBQ aficionado and Honorary Texan. Having years of experience eating and studying Texas BBQ, including an internship with a third generation Pitmaster, Pryles continues to return to Texas bi-annually to constantly refresh her palate and knowledge base.

er BurgerMary blog is a case study in all things delicious and cooked low’n’slow. In addition to previous BBQ judging experience, she is the brains behind The Carnivores Ball, a meat-lovers event held in both Melbourne, Australia and Austin, Texas and is recognised by local media as a “Southern food-spert”.

First off, who is BurgerMary - and how did the name come about?

Well, I suppose technically I am BurgerMary, though there are days I regret the name choice! Really, the name is an amalgamation of ‘burgers’ and ‘bloody marys’, but as you might expect, most people assume my name is Mary.

I started my blog several years ago because I had amassed so many delicious pictures and 12 greater port macquarie focus.

stories from my trips to Austin and New Orleans, particularly burgers and bloody marys. The blog also explores BBQ, Tex Mex and general comfort foods, though I think trying to shove all that into one name would be quite the feat. In a cruel ironic twist, if I drink a bloody mary these days I’m almost certain to need a Mylanta soon after!

I think that’s my body telling me to concentrate on eatin’, not drinkin’.

How would you define American style BBQ? Is this a trick question? He he. Generally there are the geographical definitions, which are usually broken down into Texas, Carolina, Memphis and Kansas City. Undoubtedly there’s lots more regional variations (such as mutton in Kentucky) and even then, you can break down into four distinct styles of Texas BBQ, Eastern or Lexington style for North Carolina, and so on it goes.

focusinterview.

Absolutely my heart “ belongs to the South.

The warmth, hospitality, genteelness and manners (I’ll never get tired of having doors opened for me and being called ma’am) are so wonderfully welcoming.”

ences?

Absolutely my heart belongs to the South.

The warmth, hospitality, genteelness and manners (I’ll never get tired of having doors opened for me and being called ma’am) are so wonderfully welcoming. BBQ is an extension of that, I suppose. It’s a communal affair to share with friends and family; you don’t exactly see people BBQing for one.

As far as non food experiences?

Tubing on the Guadalupe river, Rebirth Brass Band at ent BBQ is the curr the Maple Leaf in New Orod darling of the fo leans, my first Longhorns ere’s trend scene – th l game, road tripping… va been a huge revi There’s so much! Probably h in New York , wit aces my proudest moment uthentic’ style pl ‘a came last year when I held about it, but over cropping up all my Carnivores Ball event in you’ll be comBrooklyn.”

Austin.

Going from being a pletely blown tourist to being local enough away once you to pull together a BBQ gig for realise how massive several hundred people was a super the scene is. Heck, they ‘gold star’ experience.

Oh and, Wayne even have their own reality Newton in Vegas.

Classic. show, BBQ Pitmasters. Plus, BBQ is the current You’ll be travelling up to Port Macquarie darling of the food trend scene – there’s been too as a Special Guest of the BBQ Champia huge revival in New York with ‘authentic’ onships. Tell us a bit about the event. style places cropping up all over Brooklyn. Even It’s basically two events starting on Friday 28 in Austin, there has been an explosion of BBQ March, when teams from all over the country joints in the past 2-3 years, including local hero will travel to Port Macquarie to compete in the Aaron Franklin. The fact that he’s nicknamed BBQ Championships.

BBQ Jesus should give you an indication just The cooking area at the Sundowner Caravan how big it is…

Park is open to the public to come along and You’ve travelled far and wide in the US. have a look from 2pm. On Saturday is the Blues What stands out to you in terms of experi-

“

style for North Carolina, and so on it goes.

In general, a ‘safe-ish’ definition would be low’n’slow style cooking using natural woods, coals and smoke, and a combination of direct or indirect heat based on location. Is that too broad? I’m telling ya, you miss out any detail, and someone’s gunna get upset that you’ve left out their hometown style!

How big is BBQ in America?

It’s kind of a big deal. In the aforementioned geographic hubs, BBQ is a strong part of their cultural identity. Not just reserved for restaurants, BBQ is a huge part of Southern culture.

Just about every man I know from Texas and the South either has or can use a smoker. It’s significant both as a cuisine and a hobby. Then there’s the competition BBQ circuit, kinda like Country Music – you may not have known

and BBQ Festival held at the beach end of Town Green. From 9am - 2pm is the free public open day.

Come along and taste some great BBQ from visiting food trucks and watch the BBQ judging.

Then from 2pm - 9pm it’s a ticketed over 18s event with entry for only $25, which includes live Blues bands like Bob Log III from the USA and Charlie A’Court from Canada. Food trucks will be serving authentic American style BBQ, and local brewery Black Duck will be serving small batch beers on tap. Tickets are available from www.bluesandbbq.com.au You’re also a judge at the event. What are you looking at when judging BBQ? Personally, the first thing I’m looking for is texture, because that speaks the most to the skill of the pit cook (let’s reserve ‘pitmaster’ for the winner, eh?!) It’s very easy to under or overcook the meat. I’m also looking for flavour profile, smoke penetration and presentation of the finished product.

What’s your favourite BBQ dish?

Absolutely without doubt, beef rib. That’s one of the many reasons Texas stole my heart; it’s a beef over pork kinda place!

Thanks Jess.

the plug!

The Blues and BBQ Festival is on Saturday 29 March. 9am - 2pm - FREE ENTRY. 2pm - 9pm $25 a ticket.

Tickets at www.bluesandbbq.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 13

A ROU N D T H E R E G ION//F E B RUA RY 2014

26

14

The Australian Bee Gees Show For one night only, be a part of the magic that is, Stayin’ Alive - The Australian Bee Gees Show.

19

31

When Wednesday 26 February.

Where The Glasshouse.

Tickets Contact Box Office by phone on (02) 6581 8888 or by email at info@glasshouse.org.au

James Squire Beer Degustation Dinner by Rydges Beer lovers are invited to join us for a relaxed night, including a fabulous five course degustation dinner matched with quality Squire ales from the Malt Shovel Brewery.

When Wednesday 19 March, from 7pm.

Where Rydges Port Macquarie.

Tickets $75pp, available at Rydges reception (02) 6589 2888 or email functions_portmacquarie@rydges.com

more information

Fiona Joy and the Blue Dream Ensemble

1

Fiona Joy and the Blue Dream Ensemble with guest singer/songwriter James Englund presented by ABC Mid North Coast. Fiona’s album, 600 Years in a Moment, has been hailed as one of the top New Age albums of 2013.

31

When Saturday, March 1 at 7.30pm.

Where The Glasshouse.

Contact 6581 8888

BRAVISSIMO 2014 Concert at Port Macquarie Glasshouse will celebrate 20 selected high achieving HSC musicians, including four outstanding musicians who were awarded the distinguished 'Encore' nomination, placing them in the top 1% of the state.

When Friday 14 February for Bravissimo Concert, a once only, 2-hour matinee concert beginning at 12.30pm.

Where The Glasshouse.

Tickets Adults $25, concession $15, sold only through the Box Office at the Glasshouse Port Macquarie, online or phone 6581 8888.

10

Call the Visitor Information Centre on 6581 8000, or log on to the Port Macquarie events website: www.gpmevents.com.au

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14 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Starting out as a teen idol in the late 1950s, Bobby has since forged a career in entertainment that has spanned 60 years. Bobby’s a regular visitor to Australia and is looking forward to touching base with his many fans here. Don’t miss his performance at the Glasshouse on February 13 … i Bobby. How many times have you visited Australia now?

This has got to be somewhere around my 20, 21st, visit to Australia. Yeah … the first one was 1960 with a promoter by the name of Lee Gordon. And my first appearance in Australia was with the Everly Brothers and a gentleman by the name of Billy Crash Craddock.

We toured … we went from Sydney and we were the first Rock ‘n’ Roll show to appear in Perth. We landed at Perth airport, and there were thousands of fans in Perth waiting for the plane to land; so, it’s just been a very special place in my heart to be able to come back every couple of years or so to your wonderful country and to all of the great fans.

You’ve obviously seen a lot of stars come and go; you’ve seen a lot of changes over the years you’ve been involved in the music industry. What do you think some of the biggest contrasts you’ve experienced between the American music scene and the Australian music scene have been?

I don’t think there’s any difference, whether it be Australia, Japan, Germany, the European continent, the Asian continent; music is music, and it’s just like the international language of the world… the music that we recorded back in the mid to late ’50s, early ’60s - it’s been tested and has remained through the test of time. The music was wonderful music, and I think all of the fans from around the world truly remember that music and how the times were so great, so wonderful.

Being able to live in a neighbourhood and being able to keep your door open while you were sleeping at night and never having to worry about someone coming in and robbing your family … it was just a great, marvellous,

wonderful era, and I think our music translates from those people … that particular time.

Which of your hits means the most to It’ll probably remain long after I’ve been and you? gone as well, because even young kids today I would venture to say that to this day, since love to come and see our shows, because it’s 1960, my second million seller was a song brand new music - maybe their mums and called Volare, and I think that’s the song that, dads have old 45s, the EPs, LPs of the music out of all of the songs that I’ve had the good that we did back then, and it’s music that they fortune to record, has been most associated can understand, they can listen to, they can with me - to the point where it’s my walkunderstand the lyrics … not like on music and my walk-off music today - I don’t know what the and when I do the song in hell is going on today! But, the show, I’ll sing it once it was just a wonderful through, and then the era, and our music has second half of the song The music was ic, remained all those has tremendous audiwonderful mus the years. ence participation, and I think all of the What were some of where they sing and I fans from around ber em the best experiences answer back to them. world truly rem how the that music and you've had during Of all of the songs eat, so times were so gr those early years? that I’ve recorded, wonderful.”

I guess I would have that’s the one that to say that I was very really has become my fortunate early in my career. signature song.

My first big record was in What will you be singing/ the summer of 1959, and then presenting to us at the GlassI worked and nurtured my craft and my house? work. Working in The Copacabana in New Well, of course, all of the hit records that York City, which was one of the greatest all of the fans are familiar with - and I do other night clubs in the world … they say if you can things, of course, in the show. I do a tribute to make it in New York, you can make it anya gentleman I adored who passed away at 37 where, and the Copacabana was one of those years old, that being Bobby Darin. I do a medplaces where if you worked there, you’d really ley of songs from the motion picture that I was made it. in, Bye Bye Birdie. I do a lot of comedy in the And, then, to be able to work with people show. I have a wonderful fan base here, in the like George Burns, Jack Benny, Red Skelton, United States, but my fan base, all these many Perry Como, Frank Sinatra, Danny Thomas - I years since 1960 in Australia, has been absowas very fortunate, at a very early age, to be lutely tremendous. I just always look forward able to work with those superstars and to be to coming back to Oz to be able to perform for able not only to work with them, but to learn, all those fans … to watch and listen and see how these giants Bobby, considering you started on the of the business were able to deliver a line drums so many years ago, do you ever their timing. You could do nothing but learn still get the urge to break out and have a

“

bash?

I love that. I don’t use it in my show any more, but I still have a set of drums here in my home in Philadelphia.

I can remember years back … all of my friends in Australia at that time have unfortunately passed away: I’m talking about Johnny O’Keefe and Ricky May, Don Lane, Norman Erskine, Normie Rowe … all of these guys used to go to a place called the Mandarin Club and after my show, rather than go to the Mandarin and sing, I would sit in and play drums.

And, I remember one night with Ricky May and Norman Erskine, and Ricky said to me, “Bobby, do you know a song called Ob-la-di?’, and I said, “Not really”. I think it was the Beatles hit (sings “Ob-la-di ob-la-da, life goes on – yah”) … so, anyway, Ricky May counts it off, he says, “It’s kind of like, straight ahead four four. One. Two. Three. So, then I sat in; I played drums. Even here in the States, if I happen to be in a club somewhere after the show and the band introduces me from the stage and say, “Bobby, would you like to come up and sing a few songs?” I say, “No, man; I’d rather sit in and play drums”. I still enjoy playing the instrument.

Once a drummer, always a drummer?

Absolutely!

Thanks Bobby. We look forward to seeing you! Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See Bobby Rydell at the Glasshouse on February 13, at 8pm.

Tickets cost $68.50 adult, $63.50 child/concession.

Call 6581 8888 or visit glasshouse.org.au for details.

greater port macquarie focus 15

focusinterview.

by Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

The ‘Day in the Life’ series gives us a glimpse into the working lives of the people we don’t often see or think about, but who play an important role in keeping our community running.

For Hope Café volunteer Leigh Dowzard, work is all about making the most out of life ... he Hope Café and Hope Shop, in “I also remember one day when our supervisor, partnership with Access Community Graeme, dressed up as the Hope Shop Tweety Bird to Education Services (ACES), provide promote the Masquerade Ball.” a workplace where more than 100 The Masquerade Ball is an annual event which people with a attracts around 200 people and has raised more disability can than $100,000 over the past seven years. participate in the community Leigh said her mum was particularly and have more fulfilling pleased about her role at the Hope Café. lives.

“Mum is glad I’m part of the Hope I LI K E All funds raised are Café and Hope Shop community. She M A K IN G redistributed to those in is happy that I am picked up for work, the community in need of spend a great day at the café and then C O FF E E S A N D A help through counselling, get dropped home. She doesn’t need to A LS O M A K IN G financial assistance and worry about me.”

D IF FE R E N C E .” household goods.

The Hope Shop volunteer transport Leigh said she enjoys team pick up and drop off the volunteers spending time with her and also pick up four to six loads for the op friends and serving customers. “I shop each day. They are in need of additional like making coffees and also making drivers to help keep up with demand. a difference in other people’s lives.”

The dumping of soiled or broken goods after hours She has worked at the Hope Café for more than is a major problem. Dealing with rubbish takes up the three years, and like most us, Leigh looks forward to volunteers’ time, makes the shop untidy and harms her morning tea break for a chance to catch up over a morale. cappuccino with her colleagues and friends.

Organisers ask that people remember the op shop is “It’s a fun place to work, and there are plenty of not an alternative to the tip. laughs. We always look forward to Melbourne Cup Take the time to make a difference. You’ll find a Day, when we all dress up in racing clothes and hats range of tasty treats at the café and a wide range and have a fancy lunch while we watch the big race on of clothing and furniture at the op shop at 3 Milton TV,” Leigh said.

Circuit, open six days.

“

16 greater port macquarie focus.

• My Day • 6.00am Alarm goes off. Breakfast with mum and a bit of housework 9.15am Picked up by the ACES Hope Shop volunteer driver 9.30am Arrive at work and start cleaning up – serving customers and preparing food for sale 10.30am Morning tea coffee break with the staff and other volunteers 11.00am Continue work in the café - stacking the dishwasher and wiping tables 12.30pm Lunch with everyone and time to chat with my friends 1.00pm Back to my café duties and washing up the day’s dishes 3.00pm Pack up to leave and catch a lift home with the volunteer driver 3.15pm Arrive home and tell Mum all about my day

greater port macquarie focus 17

focusinterview.

Joey Latham

Victor William Latham

Victor WILLIAM STORY

The Latham family has left a lasting legacy in both our local area a family nd in horse racing history. Sharon (Latham) Wilson shares the story of her grandfather, Victor William Latham …

Olga (Latham) Adams and Sharon (Latham) Wilson

ntroduce yourself to our readers – what’s a little bit of your family/work background in the area?

My name is Sharon Wilson, and I was born in Port Macquarie in 1947 and attended St Joseph’s Convent School, Port Macquarie. The nuns were very kind and really lovely teachers. After I finished school, I was lucky enough to secure a position on the local telephone exchange, where I worked until it was closed and I transferred to the Overseas Telephone Exchange in Sydney.

I worked as a Telephonist/Receptionist for 37 years for the famous Hills Hoist Company, which was located in Sydney. Three years ago, my husband and I retired and we moved back to Port to be with my elderly mother and family.

Who was Victor William Latham?

Victor William Latham was my grandfather. He was a jockey, born in Port Macquarie in 1896.

Please tell us a little about Victor’s family background and racing history ...

He was very keen on horses and riding and started his riding at showgrounds, then advanced to riding at race meetings. He married a local girl, Doris Isabel Phillips, and they had seven children, three boys and four girls.

Two of his sons became jockeys as well: Joey (real name Albert) and Bimbo (real name Victor Ambrose), and it was quite exciting when the three Latham boys were all riding in the same race … which one was going to win?

My mother used to ask them before the race, “OK, who needs the winning purse this week?”

When I was little, I never got tired hearing all those racing stories. One little thing of interest - when Victor William finished his rides for the day, he would never take off his riding boots until he got home, and my mother, Olga, was the only one allowed to take them off for him.

Olga, his first born, also loved horses, but was not 18 greater port macquarie focus.

able to become a jockey, as it was not permitted in those A love for horse racing obviously runs deep in days. She could outride the boys, I am told. the Latham family. How many jockeys are there Unfortunately, tragedy struck Victor in April 1945. amongst the youngest generation of Lathams? How What happened? many of Victor’s seven children survive today – do In 1945 a terrible riding accident occurred at they still live locally? the Kempsey Racetrack, where Victor’s horse, Fashion We don’t have any jockeys in our family any more, Leader, was clipped by another horse and but Victor Ambrose is still alive and being cared for at fell. Unfortunately, the horse fell on top of Victor and his Bethany Aged Care here in Port, and Joey sadly passed skull was crushed, as the skull caps in those days were away two years ago. most inadequate. Victor sadly died in hospital Olga, my mother, is still alive and being later that night. cared for at Regis Manor in Port. We Riding in the same race was his son, still talk about horse racing, and , When I was little Joey, who was unaware that his she still has her little flutter every I never got tired father had fallen. Joey won the Saturday; her favourite jockey ng e raci hearing all thos g race on Grand Land. is Glen Boss. in th stories. One little Victor n Victor William was only 48 My brother, Raymond, kept he w of interest s hi d he is when he died. our racing dream alive, as fin William he would y, da e th r fo s Victor left behind a young he was always involved with ride his riding f of ke ta r ve ne wife and seven children. How the local racing industry, with t home, and boots until he go as the did they cope after the terrible local race horses in the past: w a, my mother, Olg ke accident ... were they able to ta Tour Eden, Stalwart Prince, Get to ed w only one allo .” receive any support from the Perky, and Port Express was the m hi r fo them off racing industry and Port Macquarie last one. Even through this terrible community at the time? tragedy, Victor’s love of horses His wife, Doris, was left with seven children certainly rubbed off on his children to support: Olga, Joey, Shirley, Bimbo, Dawn, Joan and grandchildren. We are lucky enough to and Terence (who was only three and never knew his still have his famous riding boots, which were father). It was devastating. patched up many times, as jockeys were not paid like The AJC at the time and the local community all they are now. rallied and built the family a home in Hollingworth It’s a wonderful family history you’ve been able to Street; it was the most wonderful thing that could have share with us. What is it most about Victor’s legacy happened for Victor’s family. that inspires and moves you?

The owners of the Royal Hotel, the Stanfield Family, The wonderful racing stories … sad and funny. It brings were wonderful with their support and kindness; Doris a tear to the eye. became the chef at the Hotel, and Olga was employed as Thanks for sharing your family’s history with us, head waitress.

Sharon.

It was a lifeline, as they were able support the family.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

“

greater port macquarie focus 19

“

Performing at the Players Theatre from March 14 to 30. ”

This month you can attend unlimited classes for only $20 per fortnight.

Breathing through Life When did you last take notice of your breath? Do you ever breathe consciously? Are you aware of how your breath changes in sync with different emotional and physical states? The breath is essential to our health and wellbeing,

God of Carnage

and yet most of us pay very little attention to it.

God of Carnage, written by Yasmina Reza, is the second production to be performed at the Players Theatre from March 14 to 30.

By working with the breath we can impact on our emotions,

It is a contemporary piece of theatre which has stormed throughout theatres world-wide. In doing, so this black comedy has been awarded the Laurence Olivier Award (UK) for best comedy and the Tony Award for best play (USA), both in 2009.

situations, overcome fears, be less anxious, and develop

This production is set in a warehouse apartment in Sydney, with the duelling parents coming from Paddington and Woollahra and all the baggage that comes from living in these two suburbs.

Two children have a fight, and the parents come to resolve the issue. This is a one act performance that slowly degenerates into an all-out brawl, making the original dispute with the children look somewhat insignificant.

breath becomes shallow, our bodies and minds are impacted

The cast of Craig Teasdell, Gina Mansfield, Lance Thompson and Julie Johnston under the direction of Jim Matsinos will provide a great night of humorous theatre performed by four exceptional and talented thespians of the stage.

Through regular practice we (re-)develop our ability to breathe

Theatre bookings: online at www.playerstheatre.org.au or at The Glasshouse 1 hr prior to the show.

all new students. Beginners welcome. For more information,

20

greater port macquarie focus.

Our breath is the bridge between our bodies, mind and spirit. calm our nervous system, and relax muscular tension. We can use breathing to improve our sleep, deal with stressful mental focus.

We are born breathing deeply and fully. As life goes on, many people lose this natural ability to breath well. When our on. Shallow breathing inevitably leads to disease, as the body is deprived of sustenance.

In Ashtanga Yoga, the breath is central to the yoga practice.

It guides each movement and creates an internal focus that makes this outwardly strong practice a moving meditation. deeply.

This month you can attend unlimited classes at The Yoga Shala for only $20/fortnight. This offer is open to call 6583 7730 or see www.theyogashala.com.au

Port Macquarie Hastings Bridge Club Have you ever contemplated the mysteries of bridge?

The Port Macquarie Hastings Bridge Club will be holding classes at their Clubhouse on Hastings River Drive for everyone who would like to learn the game of bridge, with an open day on Monday 10 February starting at 9am and classes starting on 17 February for 6 weeks.

The teacher will be Yvonne Cains, who has taught and played bridge for many years. During the course of 6 lessons Yvonne gradually introduces the principles of the game through her comprehensive lessons and practice hands. At the conclusion of the course, you can come along to supervised play until you are ready to join in the regular duplicate sessions, which take place at the clubhouse every day except Sunday.

The advantages of bridge include: • Playing bridge will keep you mentally alert in your latter years.

• It is relatively inexpensive to play • You can play socially or competitively • Meet lots of new people For more details, contact Yvonne on 6584 5766 or Freya on 6584 6765.

focusreview.

with Julie from www.gourmetgetaways.com.au

The Black Duck Brewery - Platypus

local . dr p

On a hot summer's day, the Platypus from Black Duck Brewery is the beer you want to kick back with. This Australian pale ale has a pleasant earthy hop aroma and a clean fresh palate, making it a great thirst quencher. The Aussie malt lends sweetness and body to the beer and because it is brewed preservative and additives free, you can afford to throw back a few.

GOES WITH: Barbecued seafood, sausage sandwiches, spicy food.

COST: $55 case (16 x 330ml) or $16 for a 4 pack AVAILABLE: Hastings Co-op IGA (Wauchope) Lighthouse Beach Cellarbrations, (Port Macquarie) Kendall Bottlo (Kendall) Jetty Cellars (Coffs Harbour) Prince of Wales Hotel, (Merewether) Warners at the Bay (Newcastle) Hotel Delany (Newcastle)

Image of the month.

About: The sunrise over the Hastings River, taken at Westport Park (near the marina).

Photo by: Lyndon Buttola. Camera: Canon 600D. Lens: 18 - 55 mm.

Tastings and direct sales are also available at the cellar door: 6B Acacia Ave, Port Macquarie NSW 2444.

Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

OPEN HOURS: Thursday and Friday, 10am 'til 6pm; Saturday and Sunday, 10am 'til 4pm.

WEBSITE: www.blackduckbrewery.com.au

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

WH

APPS

AT ’ S I N

eat. Dining Guide eat. is the mobile dining guide for FOCUS. Explore a great selection of restaurants and cafés from our eat. dining guide. The free application features a great selection of restaurants and cafés together with mouthwatering professional images, so your can eat with your eyes in fantastic HD resolution. The app even features a random button, perfect for when you can't decide where to eat.

Download at www.focusmag.com.au/eat Average Rating

14 Ratings

KALE

1:12

Video

Whilst you may not be growing Kale in your backyard veggie patch, you have no doubt spied it on the menu at local cafés and restaurants. It’s not only in-season locally right now, but has been a trendy veg for some time in the food world.

OF THE

MONTH

It’s basically a leafy relative of wild cabbage, and has green or purple leaves with a firm central stem. It’s incredibly good for you, so you can be healthy and hip all at the same time.

It’s low in calories, and high in fibre, iron, calcium, protein, vitamin C, vitamin A, carotenoids and flavonoids. And if that’s not enough, it also contains the antioxidant vitamin K, which is thought to protect against cancer.

VIDEO BY: Milkbar

To take advantage of all these good things, be sure to eat it raw, or cook it quickly. Shred the raw leaves finely and add to salads, pasta or pizzas.

To make a nutritious green side to grilled fish and meats, toss the leaves in a pan with a little butter, olive oil, garlic and sea salt.

Watch on your smartphone

ABOUT: This short time lapse film shows Simon Luxton painting a mural at Milkbar, Town Beach, filmed by Chris Horwood on Samsung Galaxy S4 using the lapse it app. The artwork took 8 hours to complete. Simon's artwork can be seen around town at LV's, the Pier, doppio or nothing and many more. Simon can be contacted via his instagram handle, @sigh_13 WATCH AT: youtube.com/watch?v=qOaIbYN3Nfc

WHERE

Grown by Lake Innes Lettuce & Herbs, kale is available at Ken Littles Fruit & Veg in Munster Street.

greater port macquarie focus

21

focusinterview.

Photo courtesy of: Jack Saltmiras

Tim Calnin, General Manager of the Australian Chamber orchestra (ACO) gives ives us the lowdown on a very unique audio-visual installation which is visiting the Glasshouse from January 31 - 23 February. p-to-the minute technology provides projections of 13 ACO musicians on stage, with you in the centre of the installation and able to control all of the action. Budding musicians can bring their instruments and play along – and music lovers will thrill at the experience of conducting their very own orchestra!

What’s your role with the ACO, Tim? As General Manager, I oversee the whole executive and operational side of the company. For an organisation like us – we have an interesting structure, because we have a Board of 12 Directors, and they appoint the Artistic Director and the General Manager. So Richard Tognetti and I work very much in partnership – Richard takes care of the artistic side of the company, and I take care of the executive management and operational side of the company …

We have a full-time staff of about 26 in our office in Sydney … we have a very active national program and run our own Box Office around the country; we have ten thousand subscribers around the country … we run our own marketing and our own fundraising, and because we rely on earned income - that’s revenue from ticket sales, sponsorship and fundraising, for 85 per cent of our total budget, we obviously need to have enough people to generate that much revenue.

This year ticket sales will bring in about $6.7 million, and sponsorship and fundraising will bring in around $5 million …

ACO Virtual is a very unique concept.

Where did the idea originate?

It’s a really interesting thing, and I think a kind of world first ... We wanted the ACO to have as much national and international

22 greater port macquarie focus.

reach as possible, but the physical reality is the orchestra can do maybe 90 concerts a year …

We started to think if there was some way we could harness digital technology to bring a really interesting, interactive, meaningful, musical experience to audiences outside the cities where we appear regularly.

The discussions started about 4 years ago, and the then-Marketing Manager was at a conference and met somebody who was working in the digital space – this person in the digital space is Michela Ledwidge, and her company is Mod Productions. Michela, interestingly, is a musician herself and really understood what we were trying to achieve … she came in to get to know the orchestra, sat on the floor in the middle of a rehearsal … and it was during this experience that she had the idea of creating a digital form of the orchestra, where you could give members of the public the experience of sitting inside the orchestra …

We worked very closely with Michela and Mod Productions to develop a prototype, which was based on the quartet of musicians … and on the basis of that experiment, we launched into a full scale orchestral version of ACO Virtual.

We had to deal with an extremely complicated technical setup – we actually booked the biggest sound stage at Fox Studios, where they filmed The Matrix. We had this huge set up of 28 cameras, 14 musicians – and we recorded sound and vision simultaneously, because it was very complex music we were doing and we had to have everyone in the same room at the same time. But, we also had to separate everyone out by several metres so we could get isolation of both the image and the audio of every single person, which we would then put back together in this installation … … what came out was really what we saw

with the first example of it in June last year, when we had it set up in our studio - and we were really knocked out by what we saw. The beautiful clarity of the images - virtually lifesize images of the musicians … you have this experience of standing in the room and they’re all projected on the walls around you, and the sound of each individual musician is coming directly from their image on the wall …

In the middle of the installation is an iPad controller, and by touching various functions on the screen, you can make certain things happen. My favourite thing - say you’re a violin student learning one of the pieces in this program, like the Brandenburg Concerto by Bach – you can come into this installation and you can just have Richard Tognetti playing the first violin part of the Brandenburg Concerto No. 3, and his music scrolls across the wall as he’s playing … and you can practice it along with him! And once you’ve mastered it, you can switch Richard off – he goes into shadow and you can’t hear him, then you can turn on the rest of the orchestra and you can be the first violin with the ACO and play that piece …

Which pieces of music were chosen for this installation?

We deliberately chose four very contrasting pieces …

The Brandenburg Concerto we chose because it’s written for nine different solo instruments … it’s a very complex work, and that’s something that really benefits from the ability to isolate individual players …

By contrast, there’s a piece by Astor Piazzolla, the great Argentinian Tango composer, that’s a slow and very lyrical piece called Oblivion. That’s done as a violin solo with string orchestra accompaniment. Richard plays the solo violin in a very improvised way … the reason we chose this is because that solo part

can be played by any instrument, or it can be sung, and we thought it would be a way for non-string players to have an opportunity to play a role with the installation …

One of the other pieces is the first movement of a Grieg string quartet, which is a big, gutsy string orchestra piece … really exciting, thrilling, highly virtuosic and very romantic, but the interesting thing about it is it’s based on a string quartet and Richard has created a string orchestra version of it … you can hear it as the full string orchestra version, or pick out the four string parts, two violins, viola and cello, and hear it as a string quartet …

The final piece is probably the thing that works best in the installation, and it’s by the Australian composer Roger Smalley. It’s a piece called Strung Out, and it’s written for 13 solo strings. Roger wrote it very much with a kind of spatial configuration in mind, where it was written to be played by 13 string players in a line across the front of the stage with the double bass in the middle … the sound of each instrument was designed to play along the line. The way we’ve presented it in ACO Virtual is you’re surrounded by the musicians, and there are these extraordinary moments when the sounds – particularly the pizzicato sounds – are bouncing from one side of the room to the other …

Final words …

ACO Virtual is something that can be enjoyed by people who just love music, or by people who really want to learn something about music and participate. It’s a passive listening experience at a really high level, but it’s also a performing experience … We gave ACO Virtual the subtitle ‘play with the band’, and we seriously mean it!

Thanks Tim. Interview by Jo Atkins.

ACO Virtual – free entry.

greater port macquarie focus 23

Greater Port Macquarie

Pescado Al Horno (Baked Fish of the Day) matched with Carlos Serres Rioja Viura from Mi Casa CafĂŠ & Restaurant.

eat. Dining Guide is available for iPhone & Android App Store. www.focusmag.com.au/eat 24 greater port macquarie focus focus.

eat.

Gambas De Tostada.

Mi Casa Café & Restaurant

Crisp skin salmon, pancetta crumb, confit yolk & citrus sabayon.

Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and Spanish vibe at Mi Casa Spanish Café, Restaurant and Tapas Bar. Wth great views overlooking the Town Green, the authentic menu brings a taste of Spain to Port Macquarie!

New Brunch, Lunch & Dinner Menu.

Try our 'Gambas De Tostada' (Prawn Bruschetta- pictured left) paired with a glass of Cassegrain pinot gris, perfect for a relaxing alfresco lunch.

• Friday live music and $5 beers • Try our sexy new Mi Casa Margarita!

Takeaway Coffees - Tapas - Spanish Wines

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar

- Live Music Fri and Sat

Reserve your waterfront table for two for contemporary coastal cuisine at its best and a stunning view of the marina at sunset.

Be welcomed by Jo Thomas on the baby grand piano from 5pm and perhaps indulge in a pre dinner bubbles on the deck. Executive Chef Michael Schubert has created a feast for the senses with a three course set Valentine’s Menu to include amuse a bouche, entree, main and dessert with a complimentary glass of sparkling on arrival for $89pp.

Bookings Essential to avoid disappointment.

Owners Brendan & Jennis Field.

3/2 Horton Street (Located on Town Green), Port Macquarie. t 6584 4559 open Brunch / Lunch / Tapas: Wed - Sun from 11am - 2pm. Dinner: Tues - Sun from 5.30pm.

Scampis Seafood Bar & Grill

Open 7 Days - Breakfast - Lunch - Casual Dining - Dinner - Live Music Wed & Fri from 5pm

Located inside Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges.

Park St, Port Macquarie at the roundabout, opposite Settlement City t 6589 5200 open 7 days, breakfast, lunch, casual dining and dinner from 6.45am

Local Armstrong Oysters with vanilla and lime vinaigrette .

Scampis Seafood Bar and Grill enjoys magnificent ocean views and a delicious menu, taking advantage of local fresh seafood and the expertise of an experienced head chef.

Scampis is the perfect place to relax and enjoy lunch or dinner.

Book now for your romantic Valentine’s Day dinner.

Zebu bar + grill

Owners Mark and Jackie Holt.

40 William Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 7200 open 7 days for lunch and dinner.

Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays only.

Lovers love Zebu! Book in for a decadent evening on the waterfront with a handcrafted degustation menu from Executive Chef Adam Tait. Enjoy five divine courses for $95pp or five courses with matching wines for $145 per person. Arrive a little early and add a delicious his or hers lovers potion from our extensive cocktail list and relax together with live music in Zebu Bar. Bookings are essential.

If you would like to share a Valentine’s Day that is a little more low key enjoy a relaxed dinner, drinks, live music and a fabulous water view from our casual dining menu from noon until late.

Diary Date : DRAGESQUE - Coming Out Film Launch and Performance Wednesday 5 Feb in Zebu Bar 8:30pm (No cover charge)

Head Chef Adam Tait.

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie t 6589 2822 w www.zebu.com.au open 7 days, from 6.30am - late.

Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended. greater port macquarie focus 25

eat.

Seafood platter for two

Sticky pork belly, pickled cabbage, spring onions & pear chutney.

Waterfront Restaurant

Restaurant Synergy

The Waterfront Restaurant is located on Sunset Parade (at the rear of the

Synergy Restaurant & Bar, located at the Mercure Centro Hotel – where food and service works in harmony.

El Paso Motor Inn complex). Choose between indoor seating along the window or a table on the balcony overlooking the beautiful Hastings River.

Enjoy an intimate dining experience, serving modern Australian Cuisine at its best.

We are now taking bookings for Valentine's Day on Friday, 14 February.

Join us and enjoy one or more of our amazing dishes from our regular

Intimate private dining rooms available for up to 20 guests, or for larger events, consider our spectacular ocean view roof top.

menu or take advantage of our special offer - our fabulous seafood platter for two for just $65 per person. This special offer includes one beverage per person. Balcony tables are limited, so be sure to book early to avoid disappointment.(Our Seafood Platter is available at any time with 48 hours

Balcony water views.

notice.) For reservations for the Waterfront Restaurant call 6583 1944.

For Valentine's Day: a romantic two course choice menu with complimentary champagne on arrival and dessert tasting plate for 2 - $60pp

Executive Chef Nathaniel.

Cnr Hay & William Streets, Port Macquarie t 6583 0830 w www.centrohotel.com.au

Sunset Parade, Port Macquarie t 6583 1944 open for breakfast: Mon - Fri, 7am - 11am; weekends 8am - 11am.

Dinner: Monday - Saturday, 6pm - late.

open 7 days, from 6.30am 'til 10am for breakfast; 5pm – late for dinner. Bookings essential.

Tuesday nights - buy one pasta get one for $5

Off the Hook

Café 66

Off the Hook is owned and operated by Paul and Narelle Walsh.

Café 66 is renowned around the world for their quality Italian cuisine, and the warm family style hospitality. You can enjoy an intimate meal for two, or book a group function. There is also a daily blackboard menu to select from and a function menu that caters for all tastes and budgets.

Summer time in Port Macquarie, picnics, friends, family and everyone's favourite fish and chips either on the Town Green, at the beach or in the park. Sounds good to me!

Go where the locals go this summer holiday to enjoy the best fish and chips in town.

Hamburgers, cold drinks, your choice or grilled or battered fish and freshly made chips.

Tuesday nights – buy one pasta get one for $5.

The friendly staff.

Wednesday and Thursday breakfast – bacon & eggs + standard coffee, all for $10.90.

Takeaway menu also availble.

Like us on Facebook.

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green. t 6584 1146 open 7 days, from 11am - late.

EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

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66 Clarence Street Port Macquarie t 6583 2484 open Closed all day Monday and Sunday nights only.

No surcharge on Sundays.

Head Chef Jamie Payten

focus

editorial

Coffee and Tea BUZZ

Harry&Vicki

from Café Buzz

Your local Café BUZZ has been reorganising its coffee beans! You may have noticed we have switched to a new bag made from recycled paper and lined with a corn-based 100% natural bio film that is a renewable resource and is totally compostable! Every little bit we do helps!

Our roaster has been looking for new coffees milk, making the chocolate and spice for you to enjoy, because we know BUZZ enhanced.

Coffee lovers like a variety.

As a special present for you, for every bag of From Uganda we have a coffee from Mount BUZZ Coffee you purchase, we will give you a Elgon, 'Bugisi AA'. free regular coffee to enjoy at your Café BUZZ. Mount Elgon is in the eastern area Sit down and try a different coffee you of Uganda, straddling the have wondered about. border with Kenya. The French Earl Grey Tea is one beans grow up and of our best-selling black l down the cliff faces, teas: an exotic fruit salad As a specia r making use of natural of aromatic delights, present for you, fo Coffee water gullies and blended with China every bag of BUZZ ill ew forest cover to extract black tea, calendula you purchase, w gular give you a free re ur moisture from the flowers and delicate rose yo coffee to enjoy at soil. The terrain is petals. Have a pot and Café BUZZ. ” difficult and traversed you will soon see why it is via dirt tracks that often widely enjoyed. disappear in the rainy All Café BUZZ outlets have season. The Bugisi tribesmen their own Facebook page resolved the problems to become where you can catch up with what is expert coffee farmers and use their donkeys happening, and our new BUZZ Coffee page for transportation. is now open for you to learn and laugh about The coffee is superb. It has chocolate and coffee and tea, BUZZ style. berry flavours with hints of sweet spices with a Please send your thoughts or questions to silky mouth feel. harry@buzzcoffee.com.au Delicious as an espresso, it also cuts through Harry.

“

greater port macquarie focus 27

focusinterview.

T

he Australian Chamber Orchestra is one of Australia’s busiest touring orchestras. The problem is they can only be in one place at any one time. Until now. In a three-year project, costing almost half a million dollars, the Australian Chamber Orchestra has gone virtual.

wit h Belind a G i b s o n

The Glasshouse is normally very simple - the art hangs on the walls in the Gallery and the musicians perform on the stage in the Theatre. Not this month!

Last year a trial of this project attracted 3,000 visitors over three weeks and for the next few weeks will be in the Glasshouse Gallery for you to experience. This is a truly innovative project, and we are amongst the first venues in Australia to bring this ‘virtual orchestra’ to life. ACO Virtual is like standing in the middle of the orchestra during a concert. It is an interactive installation, a performance, an artwork, a cutting-edge technological display and most of all, it is a high quality musical experience performed by world class musicians.

Using state-of-the-art video technology, this virtual orchestra features projections of thirteen musicians surrounding you on all sides, with the sound of each player coming from the direction of their individual projection, and through one of the most amazing surround sound systems you've ever heard!

Created in the same studio used to film the special effects in The Matrix

films, 13 cameras captured audio and 3D images of the orchestra’s musicians performing in front of green-screens on a Fox Studios' sound stage. This performance-capture technique meant the images of individual performers can be isolated and manipulated, allowing you to now come in and control the whole orchestra. It’s incredible that with so much technology in the creation of the project, all you have to do is walk in and press a button.

So, how does it work? It is as simple as stepping into the Gallery, and from there you can interact as much or as little as you want. The performance runs all day on a half hour loop.

Essentially you step 'into the middle of concert' and are immersed in a cinematic experience, surrounded by the musicians. From there you can sit back and simply enjoy the music or manipulate what you hear and see, just like in a video game.

In the centre of the room is a simple controller on a stand. With the press of a button you can turn on or off any of the musicians that you want.

So with the push of a button you can turn off the violin section. Or you could turn off all the other musicians and just listen to the violin section.

Or, with the press of another button, you could watch and listen to one

single instrument of your choice. The possibilities are entirely up to you; essentially, you are now conducting the orchestra.

The musical score for each instrument can also be turned on to stream along the bottom of the screen under each player, meaning anyone who plays an instrument can play along with the ACO. A smartphone application further enriches the experience with information about the music, the musicians and their instruments. (The iPhone and android versions of this smartphone app can be found on our Glasshouse website.)

This is not about replacing a live orchestra experience, but enhancing it. Music lovers now have a level of access to these musicians and the orchestra like never before. Music students can bring their instruments and play along, technology buffs will come intrigued at this new gadget, and the rest of us can just come and play.

ACO virtual is a fascinating glimpse into the future and the potential for the interaction of a live and digital entertainment experience. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience music in an extraordinary new way.

A written description doesn’t do this justice; you really do need to come to the Gallery and try it.

MAIN MEAL GET ANOTHER AT HALF PRICE* *Available LUNCH AND DINNER ONLY MONDAY - FRIDAY on presentation of this coupon. Dine-in meal only. Offer ends Friday 28 February 2014 . Not to be used with any other offer.

Cnr. Clarence & Hay St, Port Macquarie • OPEN 7 DAYS • breakfast, lunch & dinner • www.pancakeplace.com.au

28 greater port macquarie focus.

s o c i a l s c e n e with Kate Wood-Foye from Rydges Port Macquarie.

Below. David & Rebecca Bosco, Aaron Bourne, Candice Chew, Bec Sierota, Tennyeale Bedford, Dave Sierota & Rhett Bedford at Poison Ivy NYE Left. Batman & Poison Ivy aka Alexandria Barron

Below. Alla & Joel Freeman on their wedding day.

Photo courtesy of Matthew J Photography.

PHOTOS to be: 1 x wedding pic - Alla & Joel freeman- coming tomorrw ( on its way from Alla) 2 x NYE ( already have these at work) 2 x Teales Bday (Won't have these until after the event tomorrow night)

Below. Stacey Morgan, Ella Lakin & Jamie Taylor at Rydges New Year's Eve.

Above. Linda, Teale, Jenna & Jack Bryan at Teale's 40th.

Social/scene.

It has been a deliciously fabulous summer so far, and I have been living like a carefree tourist in my own town. wice a day beach trips, sand covered magazines, cold watermelon by the water and the smell of sunscreen and sausages, lazy afternoon drinks and nibbles sprinkled with a few nights on the town with live music, yummy food and that lovely holiday buzz. Yes, life is super good …then reality bites you on the proverbial, and you are back at your desk with no windows, a wonky chair and a to do list like Mount Everest, a swear jar to resource a third world country's relief fund and a Cadbury habit to deny at all costs. A self confessed sun addict, I admit I am finding it somewhat challenging to assimilate to the daily grind and lack of rays, but this year is going to be huge and I am already bracing for what promises to be a stellar year for Port Macquarie. Buckle up people: it's going to be a big one!

New Year's Eve really does seem like a distant memory… a blur of villainous fun with superheroes and comic strip faves out to celebrate the end of year Poison Ivy Bash. The dark mistress, Poison Ivy herself, welcomed guests with a wicked Kryptonite cocktail followed by a four course extravaganza, finishing with a naughty dessert buffet and a fabulous two part performance created by the evil Joker, AKA Jason Dubock and Stacey Morgan of WPMPA, with personal faves being the Kiss of the Spiderwoman.

Monster and Spell on You … Guests went to all lengths to be their superhero best, with appearances from Skeletor, Zena, Jack Sparrow, Flash Gordon, Cruella De Ville, Sailor Moon, Batman, Robin Hood, Catwoman and

Wonder Woman and a few slightly more from Russia, and the extended Freeman clan. obscure but hilarious creations from Warden The couple's beautiful day was captured by & Vicki Mersey and Co! The dance floor was Matthew J Photography. Congrats to Mr and set alight by guests, including Christine and Mrs Freeman, who honeymooned in Vietnam Graeme Sheen, Emily Rennes, Lisa and David - a destination close to my own heart!

Richards, Noelene and Noel Turner, Tenneayle Single men listen up – a fine selection of and Rhett Bedford, and naughty nurse Lisa lovely ladies will be joining forces at their red McNaughton (a superhero of sorts!) Those hot best – 200 of them to be precise – at the who were lost to the gambling forthcoming Ladies in Red Fashion den included Amanda Leech, Event at Rydges. This ladies Rachel Drew, Sue and only soirée is hotting up Teale Bryan Mike Cannon, and David to be another fun night s celebrated in hi , McKeowan, to name out with fashion, hair packed signature action s 40th but just a naughty and makeup from hi wacky style with n few. The party kicked across the Hastings. atio birthday celebr on until 1am, with This year we are on ds at Bago Vineyar guests disappearing featuring stunning y nt ve Se .

Australia Day d into the night before creations from local an e al Te ed in guests jo in the evil dawn broke designer Justine Gyot a, nd Li , ife w lovely dian In … on New Year's Day from Shanti Butterfly, d an y bo w a Co my Catwoman had a with the first release of extravaganza .” little less meow in the her autumn and winter kitty, resulting in the rest of collections. Bev Morrissey of the day being spent oceanside at City Limits will be showcasing Nobbys Beach. her stunning cocktail collection, and Alla Coroliova of Strata Professionals InnerVision Surf and Skate will be on deck and Joel Freeman of Better Homes were for the beach and swimwear. Girls, never married in a stunning woodland ceremony fear: there will be fabulous red cocktails, in early December in front of 70 friends and divine canapés with a sweet little treat to family, followed by an intimate reception at finish... all topped off with some fab music the Old Butter Factory at Telegraph Point. and company. Matt J and his Pose It photo Alla’s stunning champagne vintage style booth will be painting our guests red and gown was hand sewn by her beautiful capturing all the fun. Evelina Kemp will be mother, Nina Bransgrove. Guests, including showcasing her designer hair fashion, as will Alla’s bridesmaids, Jodie Richards and Karlie Jolin Shead, who will be heating up the stage Mckeand, Joel’s groomsmen, including with her red hot makeup artistry. Fab prizes brother Tim Freeman and mate Matthew for best dressed, best accessories and best red McHale, were joined by Alla’s family, originally heels! Grab the gals and come along for a

“

fun night, all for the Salvos Red Shield appeal … as always, there will be a little eye candy from some select buff bods to keep the night red hot and happening! Girls, do a trade off with the hubster and send him to the James Squires beer degustation the next month!

Teale Bryan celebrated in his signature action packed, wacky style with his 40th birthday celebration at Bago Vineyards on Australia Day. Seventy guests joined Teale and lovely wife, Linda, in a Cowboy and Indian extravaganza. Guests, including Katrina and Andrew Bosco, Sophie and Lee Burton and Mal and Alison Neale donned their western best to party and farewell the dirty thirties for Mr Telstra. As usual, I left the costume situation too late – the last minute queen with face pressed to the glass of Spotlight trying to get in to source elusive feathers, cowhide, hot glue gun and elastic. Linda headed up the Indian team, with Teale as the lone ranger corralling the cowboy and cowgirl posse. Not one to do things by halves, Teale and co created a life size tepee for the event and a tepee cake to match. A unique way to celebrate Australia Day! Happy birthday Teale!

I leave you jetting off to Sydney town for the annual sales review and conference … perfect timing for the gargantuan spots that have made a prominent and unwelcome home on my face and forgetting to put my fave outfit into the dry cleaners. First impression on arrival could be an epic fail … praying for some semblance of success and some seriously dark lighting in the conference room. 'til next month!

Kate.

greater port macquarie focus 29

JANE CITIZEN

000000

Proudly sponsored by John Patrick Prestige Cars

“Getting you where you want to go”

30 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

S H E ’S P O RT M AC Q UA R I E ’S O N LY R E M A I N I N G C AT H O L I C N U N, A L M O S T S U R E LY T H E L A S T W E ’ L L E V E R S E E H E R E . Y E T S H E ’S N O T A L O N E A S S H E D O G G E D LY C O N T I N U E S T H E H I S T O R I C N U N ’S TA S K O F C A R I N G F O R T H O S E I N N E E D. T H I S M O N T H , S U S I E E X P E R I E N C E S A D I F F E R E N T K I N D O F D I N I N G O U T.

I

t would seem a bit de trop this month to fine-dine as usual at The Mullet, as I meet up with Sister Marjorie: she’s planning a weekly soup kitchen lunch for 150 to 200, financed largely by hard-won proceeds from her used-goods op shop. How many among our 75,000 have the persistence or inclination to host a three-course “dinner party” for hundreds every week, for 14 unbroken years! From Newcastle, Marjorie McLachlan was educated and took her Leaving Certificate at St Joseph’s Merewether, worked in insurance, and three years on entered the Josephite convent – the order of Saint Mary MacKillop, whose name’s given to the senior school here to honour its teaching nuns.

Marjorie marked 60 years as a nun on January 1 and turns 80 in November. She’s busy six days a week buzzing about collecting donated goods for the shop, buying food for the kitchen, visiting an elderly nun in a nursing home to give her a manicure, taking another unwell woman out for shopping ... actually, it’s hard to prise her full schedule out of this humble woman: she blushes beetroot red when a helper later lets slip in her presence that she was awarded an OAM last year for her work. I do discover that on a rare day off she likes to relax pumping beach worms, to go fishing.

Unwanted items are given to the op shop, opposite Vast Interiors at the airport roadHastings River Drive intersection, premises of the United Services Union. Marjorie collects goods with help from a friend with a ute; in turn she helps on his market stall. Furniture’s delivered to the needy or consigned to tender: storage is too costly. The shop’s open only Saturdays 8-12 or occasionally Thursday and Friday mornings while the inventory’s marshalled by two stalwart volunteers. Despite a stream of donated goods, proceeds run only to hundreds of dollars; the cost of her weekly shop for Monday’s free lunch is $300-plus.

Some $200-odd goes on meats at the butcher’s, who throws in free sausages. Bread, cakes and

sometimes salads are donated by bakeries and produce, too, by food-rescue group REAP. The business community gave $2600 in proceeds from its 2013 Xmas party. One week in four, dessert - ordered from MacKillop’s Marian vocational hospitality and catering centre - is paid for by a benefactor. Everything else is bought fresh by Marjorie The food’s appealing and on Saturdays when two less . It’s kind women prepare the everything’s spot fact , in ; like a little club 3-hour period. But soup, usually wholesome y they many diners sa no one’s rushed out: vegie broth. Volunteers ly to come along part seconds are popular arrive at 6.30 Mondays enjo y a yarn . ” and someone enjoyed to cook, serve, wash up three desserts today. and scrub the little space Everyone’s smiling as the at the parish’s Catholic Men’s kitchen crew supervise today’s Club, up the lane behind Fusion 7 main dish, an appetising sweet restaurant on Horton Street. There’s gas and sour chicken with fluffy white cylinders to buy for the stoves and a huge rice and bright green peas, and wait-staff quarterly electricity bill. Any surplus funds are volunteers set out plum pudding and custard conserved for capital costs: a new commercial dessert. The food’s appealing and everything’s cooker costs around $7000. Indeed, the facility spotless. It’s like a little club; in fact, many diners would never have gotten going without help, say they come along partly to enjoy a yarn. too, from other churches, the Sallies and some The past 15 years are Marjorie’s third stint enterprising women who organised a ball to in Port; she qualified as a teacher at Lochinvar generate start-up funds. “We raised about head convent’s accredited training school and $20,000 to fit out a commercial kitchen!” served in various communities. First time here Marjorie recalls, still round-eyed amazed at the in the 1970s, she taught maths, science and feat. Yet it was a lesser goal: she’d wanted to create a home for the intellectually and mentally music at Joey’s secondary school. In the ’80s she answered a call to spend three years at disabled who she and helpers took on outings, a Port Moresby school. A brave move: in the to give them daily breakfast and a hot shower. foreign service in that era, my diplomatic bosses When that proved impossible, she compromised ranked it too dangerous for us, as female with “at least a decent meal once a week”.

First Secretaries, to be posted even to the She lives in a small flat in central Port; the heavily-fortified Australian High Commission local convent’s long closed. Marjorie apologies there. Marjorie admits that during her time when I arrive that her neat compact sitting the government boarding school she worked room, including desk, is dominated by a and lived at (Sogeri, alma mater of Michael donated oven-cooktop parked mid-floor, Somare and other PNG leaders, near the start/ awaiting a second man to help the ute man, end of Kokoda Track) was burned to the ground whose vehicle’s laid up, move it on. Later, at by rascals (it was later rebuilt). A fellow nun, the soup kitchen, the room’s humming with robbed by a rascal, was killed instantly by a happiness. There’s space for only 45 diners a rock to the head. It was a risky drive down the time, so tables turn over four times across a

“

mountain, she allows, from school to town when she went to do banking; eventually all expat teachers had to leave. Yet: “I enjoyed every moment of it!” this Pollyanna exclaims with a huge grin. Over the years the hot heavy nun’s garb was reduced to a token veil and shorter habit, ultimately entirely to secular dress. The only sign Marjorie’s a nun is a tiny silver cross on her left lapel; many nevertheless probably recognise her from their schooldays.

Port boasts generous donors to many causes (there’s an Anglican soup kitchen on Wednesdays and a charity-run mobile service on Fridays) but - not that this unfailingly cheerful woman cries poor - maybe ... next time money for that Lotto ticket (winning odds 45 million-1) might better be slung instead to the soup kitchen. Better than a losing gambling chit, it’d help our unknown hundreds of homeless and vulnerable, many living around Kooloongbung Creek and beaches, to go to bed with a full belly.

On leaving, one of today’s diners offers thanks: “You do a wonderful job; we appreciate it,” he tells the 15 or so volunteers. The names of all who help the overall effort are too many to list: they range here from a lad in his teens to men and women of all ages. They’re stirring the bainmarie, scrubbing tables, elbow-deep in washing-up suds, but one’s keen to corral me: “They’re all dedicated workers,” she confides, “but Sister Marjorie ...

She’s an angel.”

The Out to Lunch series is hosted by The Stunned Mullet on Town Beach.

greater port macquarie focus 31

32 greater port macquarie focus.

This is a great month!

All the new season apples start to arrive. We already have Galas, with Pink Ladies due to arrive by the end of the month.

If you want crunchy apples, this is the time to come in and buy.

Remember ... Granny Smiths will be in soon, but they are very 'tart' to the taste at first.

Don’t miss out on the local lychees from Coffs Harbour. They have the tiny seed and are so sweet and juicy. They won’t be around for very long.

White seedless Aussie grapes are sweet and very cheap at the moment.

In a way it is a sad month, as the summer fruits such as mangoes, apricots, cherries, peaches and nectarines start to disappear. Never mind; there is always next season. They have been so nice this year. We hope everyone has really enjoyed the taste sensations!

Aussie Valencia oranges are coming to the end of their season now, and the navel oranges are coming in at the end of February.

The good news in the vege section is that we have a very good supply of local corn, beans, and Lebanese cucumbers.

Altogether, February is a good month for fruit, with nice small pieces for back to school lunch boxes.

Quay Lime turns 1 We have just had our 1st birthday, and what a year we have had! We have listened to our customers' feedback and made significant improvements throughout our first year. Quay Lime has been transformed into a versatile dining establishment – whether it be a casual coffee catch up, an evening meal or a party with friends, we aim to provide each customer with a memorable experience.

What’s new at Quay Lime in 2014?

The Loft Bar will soon become the Loft Dessert Bar! Enjoy a drink after work, an evening cheese plate or dessert after dinner, accompanied by a nice glass of beer or wine. The Loft Bar – where you can relax and unwind with dessert and wine. It’s twice the trouble, but double the fun! Open from 5pm 'til late Thursday – Saturday.

Due to popular demand, we will now be open on Tuesday night for dinner. Take a look at our new trading hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 8am – late Sunday 8am – 3pm.

Closed Monday.

greater port macquarie focus 33

focuseditorial.

louperri.

from The Stunned Mullet

The Romance of STICKING IT TO THE MAN…

DO YOU KNOW A HASTINGS HEROINE? This year the Hastings Heroines Awards will honour inspirational women who have made significant contributions in their local community by inspiring change.

NOMINATE YOUR HASTINGS HEROINE BY EMAILING Hastings.Heroines@gmail.com

Ah yes … the joy of working for oneself! irstly, you get to stick it to the man.

Then you get to create something beautiful and presumably profitable, making each and every decision yourself. Your clarity of vision can be seamlessly applied to a living and breathing entity, gratification instantly yours. And you get to see the fruits of your labour – each success attributed solely to you, and only your skill and dedication and passion.

The perils of office politics and corporate mind games are behind you. No backstabbing, no idle gossip, no sabotage at the hands of ruthlessly ambitious colleagues with their eyes on your job.

No bosses to take the credit for all your hard work, no mindless, senseless, soul destroying drudgery to slowly whittle away your self esteem and make you dread every endless Monday morning and wish fervently for Friday afternoon and that fleeting couple of days where you get to make a break for freedom and fleetingly feel semi human …

Indeed, working for oneself paints a wonderful and romantic picture. Surely this is the very essence of life and work? Making your dreams a reality, combining passion, knowledge and skill to create your own individual stamp on the world around you.

Isn’t it? But wait … can you sense a bubble about to be burst here? Am I really that predictable?

The realities of running your own business, whatever it may be, are significantly different to the romantic notions of above.

Gratification – yes it does (or may) come if you are one of the lucky ones. But way, way, waaaaay before that there is buckets, no, make that craters, of hard work.

The sort of hard work that makes grown men weep - day and night - 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

Oh, but can’t you choose your own hours?

That would be a NO. That’s where the most prominent term associated with working for oneself can be uttered - relentless accountability!

Umm … yep. That’s you. Every burden

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rests on your very weary shoulders. You are accountable! When things aren’t done, or go wrong – you are always to blame! No passing the buck, no blame games or excuses – just you!

Which means, of course, that you will be slaving around the clock to make sure everything gets done, all fires put out – hopefully before they start. Not only will you be running the day to day operation of your business ‘baby’, but you will be going home and working some more – doing your books, talking to suppliers, researching new products and industry trends, trying to keep your team happy and most importantly, ensuring that your all your actions will meet favourable terms with the ultimate obstacle, your customer.

Oh yeah – but you can employ people do to all the stuff you don’t want to do? Ok yes, in theory; however, we must remember that we are dealing with the most volatile ingredient of the DIY. At the end of the day, the buck still stops with you. And I haven’t even touched on the other kind of anxiety producing part of making it on your own – the almighty buck.

How to find the start up capital, managing the ongoing risks, how to keep the buck flowing through the lean times and making sure that you have enough to pay your staff and your suppliers – let alone yourself.

Every day is a slippery slope, and yes if you slog away at it and are mostly lucky and perhaps a little bit clever - you may begin to enjoy a sliver of the perceived romantic fantasy notions detailed above.

But unfortunately, a malady that many business owners suffer from is an inability to celebrate the moments of success we actually have. Because we are too darn busy! Makes that end of year bonus seem even a little bit more appealing, doesn’t it?

Some of us live on the thrill of the challenge and are quite frankly, unemployable! If this is not you, it‘s really simple: don’t give up that day job.

COCKTAIL PARTY

Date: Friday 7 March 2014 Time: 6-9pm Cost: $40 Where: CWA Waterfront Function Room – 11 Horton St, Port Macquarie (Town Green) Keynote Speaker: NSW Police Force Assistant Commissioner, Carlene York

Tickets include a complimentary drink on arrival, light dinner, inspiring guest speakers and entertainment.

More than $3000 worth of prizes are up for grabs through a raffle and other fundraising activities. All proceeds from the event will go towards the refurbishment of the Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge.

Book your tickets at HBWN.com.au

Follow the Hastings Art Trail HandMad The HandMad Money Pot is a gift that gives back, even to you. Not only decorative, but a perfect all-in-one present, saver, and a sure surprise for everyone. After 25 years of creating with clay, Robin Furner has heard many stories of how her Money Pots made dream voyages, flights and exotic toys finally happen.

But do be careful; Money Pots are addictive! Using $2 coins, a large Money Pot holds more than $1,500 and a small at least $600. Or just stuff them with notes! The trick is that no money can be retrieved without smashing the pot. But because they take a fair time to fill, that's exactly what you'll want to do, as they become full and weighty, bursting with promise and allure.

An ideal gift for sisters and friends: fill the pot, throw a potsmashing dinner party, and go spending!

Money pots are a great way for children to learn about saving in a fun way.

Robin says, “My workshop feels like a land of little coloured temples awaiting adventure.”

Large Money Pots sell for $49 and small for $35.

Phone Robin on 0439 033 686 or visit HandMad at 4 East St, Crescent Head. 10am - 4pm.

Follow the Hastings Art Trail to discover a diverse range of of original artwork proudly displayed by a group of local Artists based throughout the region! This February, six talented Artists will be displaying their unique range of paintings and drawings at Long Point Vineyard and Gallery at Lake Cathie.

Enjoy a glimpse of the creative journey of the artists with this exciting exhibition, with over 40 quality paintings all at very affordable prices.

Brian Barker & Rita Carosi - Brian and Rita are both highly talented artists with many merit awards, offering stunning works in all mediums.

Harold Le Jeune - Harold is a versatile artist with a passion for Watercolour Kim McLean - Kim uses many different techniques to create colourful, ethereal, moody and dramatic paintings.

David Little - David creates original paintings depicting his love of the Australian countryside.

Elsa Toms - Elsa paints in acrylic, pastel and mixed media developing very creative and individual works.

All Artists are members of the Hastings Valley Fine Arts Association and more information can be found online at www.hastingsvalleyart.net.au Don’t miss this exciting exhibition at Long Point Vineyard and Gallery during February and March.

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• Port Macquarie Panthers • With classic hits such as Needles and Pins, Love Potion No. 9, and When you Walk in the Room, The Searchers haven’t had to search very far to find fame and recognition. In a world where everything changes rapidly, The Searchers have proven it’s possible to keep their fan base for a long time – and their number of fans amongst the Australian population continues to grow.

Frank Allen, lead singer and bassist, shares his enthusiasm for the band’s upcoming visit, where they’ll be stopping off at Port Panthers.

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i Frank. How much are you looking forward to coming down to Oz? Oh, very much. It’s been kind of a tradition for us now throughout our career … but for the last 12 years we’ve been coming pretty regularly every February and into March and getting into the nice Australian sunshine, to kind of continue our love affair with the Australian people really!

The Searchers have had quite a few line-up changes over the years, as you’d expect for a band that’s been around since the late 1950s. Was it around 1964 that you joined?

It was exactly; it was August 3, 1964, and it was a Monday night. I remember it very well.

There was a very famous club in Germany called The Star Club, where the Beatles and everyone else went out to play, and we were all unknown at that time. In fact, the band I was with was called Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers - actually probably better known than most of the others, because we’d been a recording band for a few years. And, we suddenly came across all these Liverpool bands that were playing in Hamburg, completely unknown, because they’d just been semi-pro musicians - but the rough, tough sound of the Hamburg bands, the Liverpool bands, went down well in Germany…

I met The Searchers at the beginning of 1963 at The Star Club … I palled up with them, just because they were nice guys and about six months later, of course, The Beatles had kicked all the doors down, gave everyone the chance to go in to record, and they [The Searchers] just did it.

Actually, perfectly, their [The Searcher’s] first song went straight to number one. They carried on with a whole run of hits, which I joined in on in August ’64. The first record I played on was 36 greater port macquarie focus.

When You Walk in the Room, which has, thankcould down their necks before things closed. fully, become one of the all-time classics.

Unheard of back home … so it was all pretty What are some of your other favourite novel, but lovely and new. memories from that period?

I remember in Sydney they were still building It was an exciting time, because from being the Opera House. All the tiles were piled up and enthusiastic, sort of-amateurs, we suddenly the mounds were in the courtyard in front of it, found that we could actually make a living and a and it was all controversy going in the newssuccess out of it … my first exciting experience, I papers and the TV about the cost of the whole suppose, was as soon as we cut When You Walk thing and what a waste of money it was and, in the Room, we went off to do a mini world boy - were they wrong there. Because, it might tour … which actually ended in our first tour of have seemed a lot of money at the time, but, Australia [in 1964]. But, it began in New when you’ve got an iconic, fantastic buildYork and we worked with all the ing like that … it’s one of the most Motown people … now, that awesome sights in the world was so exciting for a lad with that harbour and the like me, because all my bridge and the Opera on d ie They carr n ru heroes were American House. le ho w with a ed in jo and I was on stage With all of the hits I ch of hits, whi e Th 4. ’6 t us with Marvin Gaye, The Searchers have ug A in on in on ed ay pl I rd The Supremes, Marhad over the years co re first Walk in tha and the Vandel- which one do you was When You ha s, las, Smokey Robinson, still enjoy singing the Ro om , whi ch e one m co be , ly ul thankf The Miracles, Little the most? assics.” of the all-time cl Anthony, The ShangriIt’s definitely When las, The Ronettes … and You Walk in the Room. that was a pretty awesome Not because it was the first introduction to the world of record I was on, but it is the Pop stardom! most classic Pop song I’ve recorded; What was your very first impression of it’s the best constructed Pop song for Australia? longevity. It’s got that great guitar riff, it’s got My first impression, and I don’t want a brilliant tune, it’s got great lyrics. It’s so easy to this to sound like an insult, was how kind of remember. It’s so in your face … I still like things backward it was compared to the UK … because like Love Potion No. 9 and Sweets for my Sweet, it was very, very quiet. There were … almost like but When You Walk in the Room’s the one for village towns compared to the UK. Everything me. was in its infancy. TV had been around for a lot Describe the show you’re bringing to Ausless time than it had out where we were – a tralia this time around? pretty novel event still.

Most of our shows, apart from a few excepThe drinking system was unbelievable. They tions, we do a two hour set. We do an hour, still had the 6 o’clock swill at that time. People give an intro and then go on and do another would rush in and get as much beer as they hour, and it’s more or less a potted history of the

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band. All the hits ... a lot of the B-sides and the album tracks, and a few things we’ve gathered along the way - a couple of new ones. We’re not overloaded with new stuff, because you’ve got to realise that your duty is nostalgia, and we’re perfectly happy to do that. We talk through a few bits, and we tell stories … and give the answers about what we did and how we came up with the songs …

If anyone hasn’t been to a Searchers all evening concert, then I can only plead with them to come along. Once people come to a show, it seems to generate such an immense loyalty because I think they go away, as we do, feeling they’ve had an evening in the company of friends …

And if you want to come for one night, you’ll be with us next year and the year after and infinitum, until we decide to hang up our guitars and call it a day.

Well, don’t hang up the guitars any time soon!

No, certainly not before this tour. In fact, no, we can actually touch on the subject of retirement, but it’s really not in the wind. We enjoy it so much that we can’t bring ourselves to say that’s going to be it. We’re not stopping; we’re having a good time. The age doesn’t really matter.

Thanks Frank. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See The Searchers at Port Panthers on February 7, at 8pm.

Tickets cost $32 for members; $35 for non members.

Phone 6580 2300 for details.

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Garden Village auxiliary

OPENS ITS DOORS.

H e l d i n P o r t M a c q u a r i e ’s h i n t e r l a n d For a gastronomic experience ence in the pristine Greater Port Macquarie hinterland, Near River Produce is hosting Meals in the Fields on Saturday 29 March 2014. genuine paddock to plate event, the sunset dinner features fine-food from the fields you are sitting in.

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Working with chef Blake Dyer, from famed local restaurant The Corner, four courses will be matched with local Cassegrain wines and The Little Brewing Company beer. Ethically, pasture raised produce from Andrew and Therese Hearne’s farm takes centre-stage on the menu, with pork, poultry, fresh vegetables and eggs.

Upon arrival, enjoy canapés, wander around the market garden, and chat with the team from Near River Produce about their sustainable farming practices and the challenges and successes they have experienced since establishing the farm six years ago. Near River Produce is located in the hinterland 45 km inland from Port Macquarie.

There are sealed roads to the farm gate.

Make a weekend of it enjoying other farmgates, wineries, cafés and restaurants in the region. Accommodation can be sourced in Port Macquarie or through a variety of B and B’s closer to the property. Port Macquarie is closer than ever - just four hours’ drive from Sydney on the newly upgraded Pacific Highway. There are also direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane.

information When: 6pm on Saturday 29 March 2014.

Cost: $120pp; bookings essential.

Where: Near River Produce, 1466 Pappinbarra Rd, Hollisdale 2446.

For more information, contact Near River Produce. Call (02) 6587 6004 or 0412 995 256 Visit www.mealsinthefields.com or go to www.portmacquarieinfo.com.au

For thirty years the volunteers of Garden Village Auxiliary have held garage sales and raffles to raise funds for the Aged Care residents within the Village. The Auxiliary has raised over $175,000.

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with the ribbon cutting attended by Board hese garage sales took a lot of effort Chairman Bob Hawker and Louise Barr - Shop moving furniture and bric-a-brac Coordinator. Others who were present were from storage areas to either the Garden Village management and staff, Op Shop Community Centre or garages visitors and amongst Auxiliary members that were closed off for these present were loyal Auxiliary helpers sales, then unsold items Helen Guthrie, Lillian Watson and had to be packed up and Garden Village Edna Linfield, who tirelessly have stored away ‘til next hopes to get assisted Louise in setting up sale. As the amount of the new many visitors to the shop. donated items grew ry xilia Op Shop. The Au inue and our volunteers nt co The shop opens every also hope they ns got 'a little older', Wednesday and Thursday to receive donatio the the Auxiliary Executive to keep stock on from 9:30am -12:30pm and Committee approached shelves.” every 2nd Saturday of the month the Garden Village Board 9am - noon. Garden Village hopes and Management to create to get many visitors to the new an Op Shop, a permanent venue Op Shop. The Auxiliary also hope they for selling donated goods, which continue to receive donations to keep stock could display items and be open to the on the shelves. Items for sale and accepted public. An area was chosen and refurbishments donations are clothing, kitchenware, furniture, began in October 2013. Now the Auxiliary has DVDs, records, toys, ornaments, glassware and a great little store for their wares. The shop first crystal, linen and interesting little oddments. So opened its doors on Wednesday 15 January, visit the Op Shop. You may find a treasure.

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of domestic violence omen in violent relationships may not acknowledge or realise their situation is violent, and this contributes to difficulties in determining how often it really occurs. Extensive research has consistently reported that impacts of domestic violence on women’s health may include physical, mental and psychological sequelae that may last long after the violence has ended. Physical and psychological consequences have been associated with physical abuse as well as psychological abuse to women in violent relationships (Campbell, 2002; Coker, et al., 2000). The possibility of health effects due to psychological abuse alone has been found to be just as high a risk as that of physical violence (Coker, et al., 2000). Consequences for women’s health following domestic violence have been found to

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vary depending on the length of time of exposure to violence, type of domestic violence and how recently the violence occurred (Bonomi, et al., 2006).

Impacts on health may include direct abuse effects such as increased risk of orthopedic consequences such as fractures, gynecological and neurological disorders to less direct effects including behavioral issues that vary from poor dental hygiene to increased risks of alcohol and illicit drug use (AVA, 2010). Poor health outcomes found in Victorian women included higher rates of physical injuries, increased risk of sexually transmitted infections, increased use of tobacco, alcohol or illicit drug use, increased rates of anxiety, depression, cervical cancer, eating disorders as well as higher rates of suicide and femicide (VicHealth, 2004). Pregnant women

experiencing domestic violence have been found to experience higher rates of breast or genital injury, trauma or deaths due to blunt or pointed objects to the abdomen, late trimester bleeding or infections as well as foetal injuries, low birth weight or deformities in infants, than pregnant women not experiencing abuse (Walsh, 2008).

If you have concerns you may be in a domestic violence relationship, please contact the police, your doctor or lifeline 13 11 14 for assistance.

Lyn Francis- lyn.francis@newcastle.edu.au Lyn Francis - Academic BN, CM, MHM, LLB, LLM, Grad.Cert.TT PhD candidate Room D.25 - School of Nursing and Midwifery University of Newcastle - Port Macquarie Campus Cnr. Oxley Hwy & Widderson St, NSW 2444 Ph: (02) 6581 6359.

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BEATLES FESTIVAL PROGRAMME 15 - 23 FEBRUARY 2014 SATURDAY 15 DANCE - THE CHEVROLETS Where Port Macquarie Panthers When 7.30pm Cost $15

THURSDAY 20 TRIVIA NIGHT with Steve Davis Where Wauchope RSL When 7.30pm -10.30pm Cost Free

FRIDAY 21 SHOW - BEATLE MAGIC Where Laurieton Services When 8pm Cost $25

SATURDAY 22 CAR SHOW Where Westport Park When 10am - 3pm Cost Free DANCE PARTY THE BEATNIX Where Port Macquarie Panthers When 8pm Cost $25 ENTERTAINMENT Where Port Central/ Glasshouse Forecourt When Noon - 3pm Koalas Time Out New Notes Cost Free

Where Westport Park When 11.30am - 3.30pm Blue Hypothesis Dan McArthur The Day Trippers Cost Free

SUNDAY 23 CAR SHOW Where Westport Park When 10am-3pm Cost Free ENTERTAINMENT Where Westport Park When 11.30am - 3.30pm Coastal Suns The Day Trippers David Hinds Andy Blackmore Cost Free

Calling all Baby-Boomers! ere is a '60s showband that has been around since last century (that’s all they will own up to) and they present a full night of 1960s music performed by four professionals who were actually there in the '60s and they will keep you entertained from start to finish.

THE CHEVROLETS have a reputation as the best ever presented show band by their immaculate dress and on stage showmanship, which has earned them their place in Wintersun’s 'HALL OF FAME', alongside other Aussie legends: Col Joye, Lonnie Lee and Normie Rowe etc.

After having worked shows with other great local and international

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ROCK AND ROLL DANCERS Where Westport Park 11.30am - 3.30pm Cost Free

stars i.e. Bobby Ve ck, Vee, Crash Craddock, Lesley Gore, Bobby Rydell, The Drifters, Brian Cadd, Dinah Lee, Col Elliott, Frankie J Holden, Little Pattie and more, The Chevrolets have emerged as Australia’s number one '60s Showband, with comedy skits and illusions mixed in with the authentic 1960s music (the way it was); it is a complete night of BabyBoomer entertainment. Come and enjoy those four men from the '60s for fabulous memories with …

THE CHEVROLETS. This exceptional band has won 'Best Rock & Roll Show Band' of the year at the Samsung Entertainment of the Year Awards, on numerous occasions.

“Are we able to dance?”… ”YES.” “You cannot sit still with this music.”

The Port Macquarie Beatles Festival is a celebration of the music of the world’s most popular pop band's most prolific song writers.

THE MULTI – AWARD WINNING

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When Dad Married Fury Denis Moore both directs and acts in the play When Dad Married Fury – a stunning work written by skilled Australian playwright David Williamson.

aking an inside look at the conflicts that can happen inside a family where issues of inheritance and greed are involved, Fury is both comedic and sometimes sad … don’t miss your chance to see this play and its highly talented cast at the Glasshouse on March 14 …

Denis, please give us a bit of a potted history of your acting career …

I went to NIDA as a production student straight out of school at 17, having done plays at school. That was as a production student, not an acting student - and I did a year there. I was originally from Adelaide, and I went to Flinders University and did the drama course there for three years, graduated and worked in Adelaide for a few years in alternative theatre and also with the State Theatre Company of South Australia.

And then I auditioned for The Australian Performing Group; they were based at the Pram Factory - and this is the bit where David Williamson comes in, actually, because that’s where he started and they were forming an ensemble in the late ’70s. I got in, so I came to Melbourne and joined that company. I had a year’s contract with them both as a director and an actor. I’ve always directed and acted, both capacities at different times …

One of the reasons I really wanted to become part of the Pram Factory was because I was always very impressed by what was going on - particularly in terms of the writing of Williamson, Jack Hibberd and John Romeril … I was very interested in becoming part of that, so it was terrific to become part of that group.

The Pram Factory folded in the early ’80s, and

conflicts that occur, but it’s also a very comic situation as well - even though it has dramatic overtones, specifically for the two sons.

As well as directing Fury, you play the role of the father, Alan. What’s he like as an individual?

He’s a strange mixture of a man. My feelsince then I’ve been a freelance actor, based ing about Alan is that even though he’s been in Melbourne, acting and directing with the enormously successful on a material level - he’s a Melbourne Theatre Company and the Sydney multi-millionaire, he’s been very successful in his Theatre Company and The Playbox here in Melbusiness he’s one of these blokes who’s given bourne … film, TV and commercials and stuff his whole life to business.

His marriage with his like that … wife, which lasted 45 years or so, was really a Given your liking of David Williamson’s plays, you must have thought all your bless- very barren affair - particularly emotionally and ings had come at once when When sexually.

Dad Married Fury came along Alan’s one of these blokes who very … late in life has suddenly tried to Yes, I was very pleased grab a bit of happiness that about it. I have already he feels like he’s missed rs Williamson cove directed a few of Dae's H out on, and I think this s. a lot of base vid’s plays; I directed t lo a e's has become personified very funny: ther a lot The Club and also e's er th in this young American of comedy, another play called ers, but woman who is thirty of terrific one-lin ite Let the Sunshine. qu years younger than him. it's human and es - and I’ve acted in a poignant at tim In some ways, it’s sort of litical couple before Fury, it's also got a po sad; but in a way, it’s also ” but it was terrific to dimension to it. humorous while being very get onto this play. sad and quite poignant. So, The story of this I’ve got a lot of feeling for him. production sounds highly I think it’s the story of a lot of entertaining … blokes.

A lot of it’s their own fault, I think the guts of it is the family and because they’ve just found their whole life the things that can happen in a family. through their work and just let everything else We’ve all got them! This particular family go, particularly the emotional part of life and the - particularly some of the sons of the father - are spiritual and sexual part of life too. And, I think certainly hanging out for his inheritance. He’s a it’s a thing that a lot of women know about, but multi-millionaire but unfortunately, before the a lot of blokes don’t come to grips with it until play opens, his wife of many years, the mother of his sons, has died - and suddenly at the age very late in their life … of 70, he’s remarried. And he’s remarried an What’s been the highlight for you, working American woman whom they have never met on this production? and they don't know, and it’s come out of the There have been a lot of highlights. One of blue - so, in this particular family, inheritance has the biggest highlights is actually going in and become a big issue - particularly in terms of this acting in your own production; it’s the first time new marriage. That’s certainly one of the major I’ve done that. It’s a highlight for me to be in a

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David Williamson play … It’s also a highlight just to work with the people I’m working with in the play, the other actors and being able to pull all that together and make it work. And it has worked; it’s been very well received so far …

Final words …

Williamson covers a lot of bases. He’s very funny: there’s a lot of comedy, there’s a lot of terrific one-liners, but it’s human and quite poignant at times – and it’s also got a political dimension to it. Williamson wrote this play when the Global Financial Crisis was occurring, and there are parts of the story that I’ve not mentioned which involve that in a very personal and quite dramatic way. So, there’s quite a lot of drama as well; he covers all those bases, which is what makes him a great writer.

And the other thing is, it’s great coming to audiences outside of the main cities to large places like Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour … They’re terrific audiences in these places. It’s been a real revelation for me since I’ve been working on these touring productions how great the audiences are outside of the capital cities and how much they really enjoy the shows.

A lot of the city audiences become pretty jaded at times, and they take things for granted - and that’s certainly not the case, I’ve found, with the audiences that we’ve toured to in the country areas and the provincial cities. They’ve been really, really positive and very energetic audiences, which is terrific - so I’m looking forward to that, too.

Thanks Denis.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See When Dad Married Fury on 14 March, at 8pm.

Tickets cost: $49.90 adult, $45.90 concession/under 21.

Call the box office on 6581 8888 or visit glasshouse.org.au for details.

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A unique entertainment experience - 13 February 2014 at the Glasshouse.”

Bobby Rydell Returns Bobby Rydell is returning in February 2014 for his Farewell Australian Tour with The AllStar Orchestra and The AllStars.

Bobby Rydell’s career spans six decades and encompasses every area of entertainment.

His debut in the late fifties as a Rock ‘n’ Roll teen idol led to starring roles on such hit films as Bye Bye Birdie and stage shows such as West Side Story. Bobby Rydell has earned a reputation as a classic performer. He is a superb singer whose voice has matured over the years and he proved to be an outstanding drummer, an agile dancer and an extremely fine actor, with an unsurpassed knack for comedy.

A polished performer at the age of 19, Bobby was the youngest ever to headline the famous Copacabana in New York. Bobby’s recording career earned him 34 Top Forty hits, placing him in the top five artists of the era. Bobby’s hits include million selling singles Volare, Wild

Ladies in Red One, We Got Love, Kissin Time, Swinging School and Forget Him, selling more than 25 million records.

Today, Bobby enjoys a busy schedule throughout the world as a headline performer. Australia has welcomed him for some 20 tours, and he remains a favourite performer. Bobby also performs regularly in Las Vegas and Atlantic City. Of all the teen idols of the day, the singing and performance of Bobby Rydell was unquestionably the most polished.

Bobby Rydell’s influence on popular music has been quite profound. When the producers of the world’s largest selling movie soundtrack album, Grease, wanted to pay tribute to the era in which it was set, they named the school where most of the action took place Rydell High.

Without any doubt, Bobby Rydell is a true American music icon.

FAREWELL AUSTRALIA TOUR

Touring Australia with the ALLSTAR ORCHESTRA and

Over Thirty Top Forty Hits Including: Wild One Swingin’ School Volare Sway Kissin’ Time The Cha Cha Cha Forget Him We Got Love Good Time Baby That Old Black Magic (I’ve got) Bonnie Wildwood Days I’ll never Dance Again and many more!

THURSDAY 13th FEBRUARY BOOKINGS: 02 6581 8888 or www.glasshouse.org.au/event/bobby-rydell-farewell-australia

A MUST SEE MUSIC AL E XPERIENCE !

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Photo: Debi Pitman Wilkey

GLASSHOUSE, PORT MACQUARIE

A bevy of red hot ladies will be unleashed on the red carpet in Port Macquarie on Thursday 20 February, with the third annual Ladies in Red Fashion fundraising event at Rydges. Nearly 200 gorgeous gals and their pals, mums, sisters, BFFs and colleagues will be dressed in their most fabulous reds – cocktail dresses, gowns, super sexy heels and some amazing red jewellery. The crimson theme will celebrate and support the Red Shield Appeal and the logo of the benefiting charity, the Salvation Army.

the sexy soundtrack to the night, with plenty

Guests will be greeted by a delicious Ruby Red cocktail created by Shae Glanville of Zebu, with canapés by Executive Chef, Adam Tait.

Chanel your inner frockstar and put on your

A fashion show will feature pieces from fashion stores including Shanti Butterfly, City Limits and Inner Vision Surf & Skate.

Ladies in Red – a fundraising fashion event

DJ Mave from Maverick events will provide

6589 2888.

of grooves to get the fun started.

Local hair and makeup stylists are generously donating their time and talents to the event and include Jolin Shead from Jolin Style, and the lovely Evelina Kemp will create hair and makeup styles for each of the models. Matt J from Pose It photo booths will be on hand to capture all of the fun.

A stash of fabulous prizes will be awarded for Best Red Heels, Best Red Accessories and the ultimate Best Dressed – Lady in Red. sexiest red dress and raise the roof for a great charity. Grab a group of girls and join us for celebrating everything red! $39 per ticket - available at Rydges reception:

WHAT’S ON

FEBRUARY

31 JANUARY — 26 FEBRUARY

SUNDAY 9 FEBRUARY, 2PM

ACO VIRTUAL

SUNDAY SOIRÉE Pirates to Pinafore

ACO Virtual is a cutting edge exhibition that puts you in the middle of an Australian Chamber Orchestra live performance.

³,Q %ULDQ +DQQDQ WKH FRPSDQ\ KDV D FRPLF JHQLXV´ The Age Melbourne

SATURDAY 15 FEBRUARY, 8PM

PEACE TRAIN THE CAT STEVENS STORY

WEDNESDAY 12 FEBRUARY, 10.15AM

REEL DEAL CASABLANCA

starring Darren Coggan

Movie & Morning Tea

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(morning tea: 10.15am, movie 11am)

The Daily Telegraph

WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY, 8PM The Harbour Agency Presents

STAYIN’ ALIVE THE AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES SHOW

ART AFTER HOURS ART HISTORY LECTURE SERIES

ORIGINS OF IMPRESSIONISM WEDNESDAY 12 FEBRUARY, 5.30PM

SUPERSIZED ART WEDNESDAY 26 FEBRUARY, 5.30PM

Direct from Las Vegas

The spider sculpture Maman by Louise Bourgeois outside the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao Spain.

Photographer: Doalex

02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Government Sponsors A facility of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

Founding Sponsors

Principal Sponsors

Supporting Sponsors

Supporting Partners

THE ROSS FAMILY

greater port macquarie focus 43

Ph to by: Th Pho Thee Mil M il Stu Studio dios. s. Rea Re l Brid ride: e: Jas Jasmine L ang an ley Hair+Mak + Makeup eup: Tony ny Ma March rchmen mentt Arti Artistr stry. y.

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A little romance at Town Green Inn ‘Love is in this air’, and as Port Macquarie packages and personalised theming, our functions enjoys the final days of summer, the manager will ensure the Town Green Inn makes Town Green Inn is dishing up the your big day one your guests will be very ingredients incumbent of a talking about for years to come. little romance: beautiful views, The exclusive Rafters Room on The exclusive attentive service, delicious the first floor of the Town Rafters Room f seasonal produce served o Green Inn provides some or on the first floen with a drop suitable for the n In of the best views in town, the Town Gre e of the ‘love-liest’ of celebrations m coupled with an outdoor provides so town, or intimate affair. in s appeal. “The views, spacious ew

“

best vi

an This February, the Town layout, personalised packages coupled withea .” l p ap r o o Green Inn will also launch and attention to detail is what outd their tailored wedding makes our wedding packages reception packages for the most appealing to soon to be exclusive Rafters Room. Wedding brides.”

Packages have been specifically tailored “Our focus lies firmly on ensuring our to ensure that every bride and groom can client’s big day is one to remember”. sit back, relax and celebrate their big day in For more information, simply visit www. style and comfort. With both sit down and canapé towngreeninn.com.au or call; style menus on offer, including extensive beverage Ph: (02) 6580 7899

The Wedding Day of your Dreams busy with functions at this time of the year.

Experience the magic of a wedding reception at the Innes Lake Vineyards. The secret is Cocktail weddings are our specialty, with a wide wonderful cuisine, fine wines and selection of gourmet canapés to choose stunning views. Enjoy the casual from. If you prefer a sit-down sophistication of holding e ar u wedding, there are many choices If yo of your ceremony in our ng ki in available to suit your needs. All th ed ri vine covered gazebo, ar m g the food is produced by our in gett l fu ti au be then pre-dinner drinks e es th very experienced chefs and in d and canapés under the surroundings an made on the premises, fresh e beautiful Jacaranda and an alfresco styl t as can be, and guaranteed not wedding , why noat Poinciana trees, providing to leave you and your guests come and see us” you with a stunning hungry.

Little Fish C afé? setting.

We are now licensed for both If you are thinking of getting wine and beer and have a wide married in these beautiful range of excellent wines available at surroundings and an alfresco style very competitive prices. You also now have wedding, why not come and see us at a choice of beers to your liking, including the Little Fish Café? The prettiest time of the popular local breweries. year is October, November and December. So get Don’t miss out for 2014 and book early, as dates in early to reserve your special day, as we get very are already being reserved.

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LUXE Catering The Perfect Location Perfect location for any wedding or special function. Overlooking the beautiful Wauchope Golf Course, this ideal reception venue has everything and more to complete that special day.

The choice is yours when it comes to layout, decorations, food and beverage service, with a suitable size dance floor, bar facilities, room for a DJ or band and able to seat up to 150 guests, as well as provide privacy, so you, your friends and family can enjoy your special day in peace.

The Wauchope The Wauchope Golf Club has been a favourite location for many locals, with the picturesque golf course a wonderful location for those weddings shoots to be taken.

Our head chef has many options for you to choose from, whether it be buffet style, sit down three course, or finger food.

46 greater port macquarie focus.

“

“

en G olf Club has be r fo n tio ca lo a favourite the many locals, with urse a co lf picturesque go tion wonderful loca s ng di ed w e os for th n.” ke ta be to ts oo sh

We understand at LUXE that your wedding day is the most important day of your life ... ensuring the food is of the highest quality, allowing you to sit back and enjoy every moment of this special time. Offering all types of menus, catering for everyone's different tastes, making sure that your favourite foods will be presented and any guest's requirements looked One of LUXE'S after. LUXE offers a wide greatest range of menus to suit r strengths is thei ill st t ls every occasion, and we hi w y lit bi flexi gh hi personalise every event maintaining s.” to suit our clients. Our quality standard food presentation and tailor a menu to suit the guests.” focus on texture, style and Adam Spencer. taste makes us stand out from “LUXE Fine Food catered for our wedding the rest. in September, and I am still receiving positive Wondering where to hold your private function? feedback about how delicious the food was.

You are most welcome to book our restaurant if Josh and his team are professional and friendly. you wish.

There was no fuss at all, with Josh taking care of Testimonials: “One of LUXE'S greatest strengths everything - which is what a bride wants in the is their flexibility whilst still maintaining high lead up to her special day! We ordered canapés, quality standards. I have engaged LUXE which were extremely generous in size and for catering in a range of contexts, from all homemade - no processed food. We could professional functions to special family not have asked for better service and value for celebrations, and each time we have been money - thank you to Josh and his team for absolutely delighted with the food and service. such gorgeous food and friendly professional Josh is an excellent chef who knows how to service.” Kelly Biddle.

With the club situated in the CBD, within walking distance to local motels, a courtesy bus and taxis are available, so your guests will arrive and depart safely.

Come and speak to our friendly staff and let them help you make one of the most important days in your life stress free and as easy as possible.

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Celebrate your special day With endless views overlooking the picturesque Golf Course, The Port Macquarie Golf Club is an ideal place to celebrate your special day.

Wedding ceremonies can be held out on the course amongst a lush garden backdrop, providing the perfect scenery. The function room can cater for a small intimate gathering through to banquets or boutique weddings. Providing everything you need for a memorable and relaxing wedding day, our qualified team will make every effort to ensure your function is planned and catered to your complete satisfaction. White linen tablecloths and skirts can be provided, and chair covers and sashes are available for hire also. Ceremony and reception packages can be tailored to suit all styles and budgets.

Aspire Restaurant is located within the Port Macquarie Golf Club, and has an extensive range of menu packages to choose from to suit every taste and budget.

Choose a full 3 course dinner for your guests,

a buffet style menu, or for a more casual function, a range of canapés are available.

Aspire Restaurant specialises in a large range of fresh local seafood and succulent steaks.

Should you wish to make any modifications or alterations, please feel free to discuss this with our wonderful chef, and we will assist you to provide the perfect meal for your wedding. A full function guide with menu items is available to view on our website: www.portmacquariegolf.com.au Come and join us for BINGO every Monday morning from 10.30am, Wednesday night raffles tickets on sale from 5.30pm, and Friday raffles with over 50 prizes to give away!

With raffles and entertainment, a delicious new menu from Aspire restaurant and a relaxed atmosphere with friendly service, you are sure to enjoy your experience with us.

Ask about our FREE courtesy bus to pick you up and take you home for your next visit.

Great Golf, Great Food, Great Fun!

Your Waterfront Wedding coast.

This year make a date to set your most special date with our Wedding & Events Make your wedding a resort escape for all of Coordinator, Rachelle, and be the family and friends with our waterfront first to experience the new guest rooms and suites with special release wedding packages accommodation packages and Our new at Sails Resort by packages offers available for your guests.

Rydges. offer an exciting Why not indulge in a poolside secure opportunity to Our team understands post recovery breakfast and ding a premium wed that each couple want to wedding wind down with d with experience fille create their own special s guests the next day? ie magical memor day in their own signature tle lit l ia Our new packages offer an and some spec style. Nestled on its own exciting opportunity to secure extras .” private peninsula, Sails a premium wedding experience Resort’s marina side location filled with magical memories offers the perfect setting for and some special little extras to help you to create a quintessential coastal you celebrate your day and your new life wedding with a focus on aa premium together. menu, fine wine selection, gorgeous décor, Contact Rachelle on (02) 6589 5100 or personal and attentive service and a magical rachelle_dufty@rydges.com atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere on the

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XS Food XS food is fast establishing a reputation as the best caterer in the Hastings Region. Whether you’re entertaining 2 of your closest friends for an intimate dinner party or organising a major event with over 2,000 guests, we can design a menu to suit your needs and budget. No function is too big or too small.

Wedding Inspirations If you have a special event coming up in your life, why not contact Wedding Inspirations for your obligation free consultation!

Wedding Inspirations is a local family owned business with over 9 years’ experience. We pride ourselves on offering our professional, friendly and personalised services for weddings and other special events. Wedding Inspirations covers the area from Kempsey to Forster. Wedding Inspirations can provide anything you may require for your special event, such as: ceiling and room draping, chair covers and a wide variety of sashes, fairy lights, LED glass ball, wishing well, bonbonniere gifts, chocolates, and a large selection of centrepieces. We provide wedding and reception packages, including those for your outdoor ceremony. Let us personalise a package to suit your every need.

No function is too big or too small. Wedding Inspirations also manages the hiring of the Tacking Point Surf Club hall.

Please don’t hesitate to view our website: www.weddinginspirations.net.au or contact Kellie on 0428 841 877 for your obligation free consultation.

We look forward to helping you create your special day.

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Perfect Wedding Location If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible venue for your upcoming wedding, look no further than the Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club.

The highly organised event co-ordinators have many years of experience making a couple’s special day perfect.

Offering magnificent views of Lighthouse Beach and surrounding areas including the Lighthouse, the surf club is an exclusive licensed venue that can cater for up to 200 guests in comfort.

Weddings have become a speciality, and your special day can be personalised to suit your needs. From beach ceremonies through to relaxed nearby receptions, your every desire can be satisfied, with flexible catering options, a fully licensed bar and alfresco area.

Tacking Point Surf Life Saving Club provides a venue where couples can come together with family and friends to celebrate their marriage in a one-of-a-kind event in a relaxed beachside atmosphere.

For weddings or more formal functions, please contact Kellie Mullen on ph: 0428 841 877.

We look forward to hearing from you.

XS food are specialists in offsite catering. We regularly cater at local vineyards, surf clubs, function centers, private residences, corporate offices, community halls, arts and conference centres, marquees – anywhere!

With over 50 years’ combined industry experience, we are passionate about delicious, fresh and beautifully presented food.

We have an extensive menu selection available, or we can tailor a menu specifically for your event. We source local produce and suppliers where available and prepare food on site or in our own commercial kitchen and patisserie.

Attention to detail is what sets us apart from other caterers. We take pride in our friendly, professional service, and our experienced team has a genuine can-do attitude.

XS food holds a NSW Caterers Liquor Licence and has great working relationships with local vineyards and breweries, giving us the ability to meet all your beverage needs.

We understand the importance of providing excellent value catering. We publish all prices in our menus, so that you can see our costs up-front. We also provide flexible options to suit every budget.

Our reputation is backed by our clients rebooking our services time and time again. XS food has successfully completed the catering contract for Ironman for the past 3 years.

So contact us NOW to book for your next function or event.

5/35 Merrigal Road, Port Macquarie.

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We talk to our local experts about their top tips for wedding advice & choosing the right people to deal with on your special day.

photography With Matt from Matthew J Photography TOP TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER 1. Make sure they have plenty of experience, particularly as a wedding photographer 2. Check the photographer’s website and/or Facebook page to see if you like their style; it is always a good idea to meet with them in person.

3. See if they have local experience - it can really help on the day in the instance of rapidly changing weather and choosing suitable locations.

Most important questions to ask 1. Are they available on the date you want? You will find all the experienced photographers will be booked 12 to 18 months in advance.

2. Do I receive the images copyright free, and do I receive high resolution files?

3. Is the photographer flexible with time limits and locations on the day.

OUTDOOR CEREMONIES With Jo from Hire Port TOP TIPS FOR OUTDOOR WEDDINGS 1. Not only do white folding chairs look gorgeous, they also set the scene in creating an aisle for the Bride to walk down, which leads to my next tip.

2.The ruby red carpet runner is something most brides like to have. It shows class and is also the link between being a ‘Miss’ and becoming a ‘Mrs’!!

3. Keeping an outdoor ceremony simple and not going overboard with decorations will allow your guests to take in the local surroundings and views of your chosen location.

venue hire & reception With Amanda from Rydges Port Macquarie TOP TIPS FOR BOOKING YOUR VENUE: 1. Do your research ...

Ensuring you have done your wedding reception homework before you get to a venue site inspection is vitally important to extract all the answers to the questions you have. There is nothing worse than coming away from a wedding consult wishing you had asked your wedding coordinator a super important question!

It is always good to jump online and compare venue style, venue capacities, restrictions, menus, beverage packages and any special offers well before you arrive and make a list of must asks! The most popular dates book out well in advance, so plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

2. Be flexible with dates ... try a non traditional day of the week!

Even though it is hard not to get your heart set on one special date, it can save you lots of stress, heartache and potentially dollars if you have a few options up your sleeve. If the venue is already booked or unavailable, it is always important to consider other options. There are significant savings available at certain venues if you are willing to celebrate your special day any other day than a Saturday. Friday and Sundays are increasingly popular, as well as midweek weddings.

3. Know your budget ...

It is super easy to get carried away with all the trimmings and extras of a wedding and then have a heart attack when you receive the bill!

Know what is important to you before you arrive: what are your ‘non negotiables’, then list the things you will compromise on. Look for venues with all inclusive packages with added bonuses and savings.

Above all, enjoy the day: it will fly by in a second! greater port macquarie focus 49

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Hastings 5 Star Limousines Welcome to Hastings 5 Star limousines, where safety comes first.

Vintage and Rustic Wedding Hire Are you a bride wanting a wedding that is reflective of your own personal style, but struggling to find what you are looking for?

The Salvaged Picnic could be just the answer. We are new to town: a vintage and rustic wedding hire business that offers an alternative to white plastic chairs and organza bows.

After planning our own wedding in 2013, we were disheartened by the lack of creative and accessible options available to us. So instead of changing our ideas, we decided to buy and build our dream wedding instead. Recycled timber tables were built. Markets were trawled to hand select vintage chairs. An arch was constructed. And endless decorations were crafted.

We now want to give other brides another option. Check out our website: www.thesalvagedpicnic.com.au or find us on Facebook to see our gallery of furniture, glassware, dinner settings and decorations. We would love to work with you, so you too can have your dream wedding.

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Hastings 5 Star Limousines services, Wauchope, Port Macquarie, Laurieton, Kempsey, Taree, Forster and Coffs Harbour, with the ultimate in chauffeur-driven luxury for any occasion.

Our limousines provide the perfect setting to complement your special occasion or event for a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Our personally designed, brand new Black Dodge Nitro seats 12 guests altogether, in ultimate luxury.

Hastings 5 Star Limousines specialise in a variety of packages, including: Weddings, school formals, deb balls, vineyard tours, scenic tours, birthdays, hens’ and bucks’ nights, race day packages, sporting events, concerts, corporate events, restaurant packages, airport transfers.

Whatever the occasion, Hastings 5 Star Limousines will ensure it is completely unforgettable. Arrive in style at your next event with our limousine for our head turning star arrival, with full red carpet service and complimentary drinks for every booking.

Contact us today for an obligation free quote.

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COUTURE STUDIO WEDDINGS Red Shed Hire Decorating your wedding and creating a unique and memorable theme will add atmosphere and ambience to your wedding ceremony and reception.

Your wedding is one of the most important days of your lives, where friends and family will gather to celebrate with you - so it is important to add your little bit of style to it.

Whether you are interested in hiring and setting up furniture and accessories yourself (DIY) or looking for a caring hand to help you all the way until you are ready to walk down the aisle: Sublime Weddings and Events by Red Shed Hire can help you with your wedding day.

We offer FREE delivery, and can help set up, or you can DIY if you are on a budget.

Our complete Wedding Planning Service is available to help you in making decisions, being organised and ensuring nothing is forgotten.

Just speak to Christie about what they can offer, to ensure that everything will run smoothly.

- AWARD WINNING COUTURE STUDIO WEDDINGS -

Sublime Weddings and Events by Red Shed Hire, in Wauchope, has an abundance of new wedding decorations. From the outdoor ceremony with garden arches, altars, plinths and Bali flags to the reception venue compete with cake stand, table centrepieces, sweet tables, and all the little things that help make a warm reception for your guests.

// FOR HIRE STUDIO

THE MIL STUDIOS LEVEL 1 8/74 CLARENCE STREET, PORT MACQUARIE. F. FACEBOOK.COM/THEMIL WWW.THE-MIL.COM/STUDIO REAL BRIDE: JASMINE LANGLEY HAIR+MAKEUP: TONY MARCHMENT ARTISTRY

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The Suavé Duo. Andy and Robyn started Suavé Duo whilst completing a Jazz and contemporary music degree 12 years ago. Since then they have performed at countless weddings during ceremonies, canapés, reception meals and dances.

Some of the outstanding features of Suavé: • Andy is able to play many instruments, including the piano, saxophone, guitar and vocals.

• Robyn has a beautiful, pure, smooth tone to her voice that can provoke the emotions and add to a relaxed, romantic atmosphere.

• The duo uses professionally recorded backing tracks to create the sound of a full band when needed.

• They know the golden oldies as well as recent chart toppers and take pride in catering for young and old.

• Easy Listening, Popular, Jazz, Folk, Rock, Soul

PIANO JAZZ & POPULAR

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and Adult Contemporary.

• Their sound is varied, because some songs are performed as just vocals and piano, vocals and guitar, or vocals, saxophone and backing track.

• Suavé is happy to learn special requests for your wedding.

In the Hastings area they have performed for weddings at Cassegrain Winery, Bago Winery, Sails Resort, Bonny Hills Surf Club, The Rydges Hotel, Flynns Beach Surf Club and The Glasshouse.

“The music that you played sounded beautiful.

Thanks for your professionalism and for making the evening fantastic.” – Sven.

“I could listen to Robyn’s voice all day.” – Claire.

“The volume was perfect. Our guests were still able to hear each other speak.” – Peter.

SAXOPHONE

OLD & NEW

/

/

GUITAR

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VOCALS

QUALITY MUSICIANSHIP

ENQUIRE ABOUT US TODAY - PHO e: bookings@suaveduo.com

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NE 0415 978 679

www.suaveduo.com

Commemorate Your New Life Together... with a special Commemorative Marriage Certificate.

Holding Hands

Waratah

Rose

Diamond Rings

Cut the Cake

Marriage Rings

Commemorative Certificates are a unique memento of your wedding day and can be displayed in a frame as a keepsake or become part of your album as an everlasting memory. Commemorative Certificates are purchased as a $75.00* package that includes a Standard Marriage Certificate (valued at $51.00) that can be used for official purposes. With each package, additional Commemorative Certificates can be purchased for $23.00 each.

To apply for a certificate, speak to your celebrant, visit our website or phone 13 77 88.

*Prices are correct at time of printing and include postage, handling and GST where applicable.

Commemorative Certificates are A4 in size (210mm x 297mm).

w w w. b d m . n s w. g o v. a u l P h o n e : 1 3 7 7 8 8

V A L E N T I N E S

D A Y

be my

Valentine Dear

Cody

H

appy Valentine's Baby, Thank you for making me feel so special and loving me as much as you do. For the past year you have helped me and gotten me through so much and for that I am grateful. You mean the world to me and I love you so much.

From Samantha Alderton to Cody Lawler, Port Macquarie

Dear

Kerrie

I

would love to declare my love for my wonderful wife and partner of nearly 30 years, Kerrie. I will steal the words of “All of me”, a John Legend song.

“Cause all of me, Loves all of you.

Love your curves and all your edges.

All your perfect imperfections.

Give your all to me, I’ll give my all to you.

You’re my end and my beginning.

Even when I lose I’m winning.

Cause I give you all of me And you give me all of you.”

Happy Valentine's Darlin’ xxxx Shane Stelzer Port Macquarie

Dear

T

Reece

his pure and selfless soul has not left my side. With lots of hospital visits, the last 3 months have been some of the toughest in my life and I could not have made it through without him. He is the strongest person I know and even through the hardest moments he kept strong for me even when deep down inside he couldn't be strong for himself. I could not possibly repay you for what you have done for me, it is just too great. Thank you for smiling when I could not smile and thank you for all your strength when I was weak. Most of all I thank God for sending me His most precious Guardian Angel ... You! I love you endlessly my Hun. Happy Valentine's Day xx From Tania Dein, to Reece Dein Port Macquarie

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wauchope guide easy walking distance shopping

Class-ique Fashions.

The Jewellers Bench.

• Si mply beautiful fashion clothing for the mature woman.

• L arge stockist of Black Pepper, Marco Polo and other leading Australian brands.

• Si ze range 8 - 24.

• Spec ialising in smart casual, ‘Mother of the Bride’ and special occasion.

PASSIONATE ABOUT WHAT WE DO Specialising in jewellery made to order • Remakes, repairs, re-sizes, re-strings • Valuations • 35 years' experience and knowledge in the jewellery industry • Sourcing gifts from around the world • Handbags, wallets, jewellery, jewellery boxes, French & English toiletries • Crystal, china, men's gifts

33 High Street Phone. 6586 1324

TURN SOMETHING OLD INTO SOMETHING NEW

MARCO POLO

FINAL SUMMER SALE 50% OFF ALL STOCK

Class-ique Fashions Style

Fit

48 Hastings Street Ph: 0499 187 750

Service

Wauchope Lasiandra Festival.

Wauchope Removals & Truck Hire

COUNT DOWN TO 30 YEAR ANNIVERSARY Calling all past Members, Princess Winners and Candidates, associated service and community groups, and festival prize winners.

Help us celebrate our 30th anniversary in March 2014!

The committee invite all to our 30th Anniversary Celebration Dinner.

When: Sat 29 March Where: Wauchope RSL Club Tickets: $30 per head.

(Table of 10 persons $270.)

Join us to celebrate Wauchope's Floral Emblem and 30 Years of Community Spirit Ph: 0412 137 621

Hastings Valley Property.

Hastings Valley Real Estate is conveniently situated at 32 High Street, Wauchope and is the key to all of your real estate needs.

We service both Sales and Rentals in the Hastings Valley and beyond.

Please call in to our office for all your real estate needs, you might be pleasantly surprised.

32 High Street Phone. 6585 2888 www.hvpm.com.au

• Anywhere Anytime • Truck, Ute and Trailer Hire • Storage Available • U-Drive or with Driver • Budget Rates Call 7 Days Ken & Robyn Mackay 10 Forest Way, Wauchope Phone. 0407 256 032 or 6585 1468 Email. kmackay@bigpond.net.au

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Wauchope

30th Annual

• F E S T I V A L •

Wauchope's 30th Annual Lasiandra Festival preparations are in full swing – ever popular and new events are planned, with something of interest for all the family assured. Chrissy Jones talks to Wauchope Lasiandra Festival President Sam Elphick about the upcoming festival and its highlights.

T

ell us about the history of the Festival; how did it come about?

The Wauchope Lasiandra Festival was the brainchild of three Wauchope men – Jack Dwyer, Gordon Rogers and Noel Dunn. They envisioned a floral festival to promote the Wauchope area and set about placing plantings around the town.

The first Lasiandra Festival was held in 1984 and it has continued annually since then, always taking place from the second Saturday in March to coincide with the floral spectacular of the Lasiandra in full bloom.

The festival is run entirely by volunteers, and proceeds are used for the promotion and beautification of Wauchope.

Improvements to Lasiandra Park are a fine example of the benefits that the festival brings to the town. Festival proceeds have been used to build a barbecue area, shelters, amenities block, a children's playground and a gazebo.

What are the main aims and objectives of the festival?

We are a not for profit community group run entirely by volunteers. Our main aim is to promote Wauchope and the Lasiandra as Wauchope’s Floral Emblem, the Lasiandra was adopted by the townsfolk 30 years ago at a community meeting as the town's floral emblem, and to promote and organise an annual Festival to be enjoyed by all. By our actions we support various groups and organisations in our community; we welcome their involvement in our festival.

The festival will celebrate its 30th year during March; how are preparations going, and what are some of the events?

Things are progressing nicely. We have a wide cross section of community involvement this year. New events

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and favourites will be conducted from 3 March through to Charlize Rose and Bodilines will be presented in a fun 29 March. The festival kicks off with Wauchope Women's atmosphere. Entry is just $5 per head, with lucky door Bowls Club contesting the Lasiandra Triples on Monday prizes up for grabs. Starting at 3.30pm, you are assured of 3 March at Wauchope Country Club. This is traditionally a great afternoon of fun and fashion. a big day on the Wauchope Ladies’ Bowlers calendar; Saturday 15 March sees the Lasiandra Festival Rock n many visiting bowlers from out of town join in the friendly Roll Show, to be held once again in the Wauchope Country competition, with both bowling greens in action.

Club Auditorium from 7pm. Entry is $5 per adult, The Family Fun Day at Yippen Creek with kids under 18 free of charge. Last year Reserve is set for Saturday 8 March. this was a great night; the Country Club is Following on from the success of last a wonderful venue for the Rock n Roll year's event, the Hastings Valley dance - don't miss it.

Things are progressing Mini Railway will be in action There are many sporting events a nicely. We have from 10am, ensuring a fun included as well; tell us more. section of s os cr e id w morning out for all the family.

A couple of events have been lvement community invo ts Later that evening the Lasiandra with us for the entire 30 years, en ev this year. New be Disco will be held at Wauchope which is a wonderful thing; both ill w s ite and favour arch M 3 RSL from 6.30pm. the greyhounds and horse racing om fr d te conduc ch .” ar M 29 A special kids' disco will be have been there since day one. The to h ug thro in action for the first hour and a greyhounds will be a day meeting on half and then swing into an all age Saturday 15 March at the Beechwood disco thereafter. Entry is by gold coin Road track. The 30th Annual Lasiandra donation for those under 18 years of age, Cup will run at approximately 3pm, with and adults entry is $5. gates open from 1pm. Easter Monday will see Sunday 9 March sees a couple of new events for the Wauchope Jockey Club host the 30th Annual Lasiandra festival. Bago Vineyards will be presenting The Cedar Creek Trophy Race. This is a great day out at the Wauchope Band. Gates open at 10am, with music from 11am through racecourse, and there are prizes for the Best Purple Dressed. until 3pm. Admission is $5 per person, with kids under 5 More sporting events including golf, junior tennis, and free - includes entry to the Bago Maze. the Jack Dwyer Memorial Triples Lawn Bowls are hotly That afternoon, the Lasiandra Fashion Parade will be contested during the month. held in the downstairs auditorium of Wauchope Country Your committee organises some these events?

Club. Current fashions from Heart to Heart Lingerie, Night We organise Purple People Shopping and Market Day on Time Elegance, Classique Fashions, The Department Store, Thursday 13 March in the CBD and the Festival Awards and

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Purple People Shopping & Market Day is probably one of the best days on the calendar for Wauchope’s CBD, the town comes alive, it's a sea of purple.”

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• L A S I A N D R A Celebration Dinner to be held at Wauchope RSL Club on Saturday 29 March.

What’s Purple People Shopping and Market Day? Probably one of the best days on the calendar for Wauchope’s CBD - the town comes alive; it's a sea of purple. This is traditionally held on the second Thursday of the month; this year the date will be Thursday 13 March.

Shopkeepers and staff decorate their shop premises, window fronts and themselves - there are prizes up for grabs; it’s a great day.

Buskers, art and craft market stalls join participating businesses with sidewalk specials, for a day of fun, shopping and bargain hunting in Wauchope’s shopping precinct.

You are having a Celebration Dinner, what's the date for that and can anyone attend?

The culmination of the month long festivities will be a Celebration Dinner to mark the 30th anniversary. To be held at Wauchope RSL Club on Saturday 29 March from 6pm, all past committee and festival participants are invited to attend this special occasion ... actually, anyone who would like to join us are more than welcome.

Cost is $30 per head; bookings are essential for catering purposes.

We are on the lookout for any memorabilia items that people may have that we can add to our display on the night; contact our Secretary on the number below if you can help at all.

Is there still an opportunity for people to be involved with the festival, and how can they find out more info?

You can book a site for Purple People Shopping and Market Day, attend any of the events, or book a seat at the Celebration Dinner.

More info/bookings: pick up a programme of events about the town from festival sponsors, email: lasiandrafestival@gmail.com or phone our Secretary, Chrissy, on 0412 137 621.

Thanks Sam.

MONDAY 3RD Women’s Bowls – Lasiandra Triples Wauchope Country Club Ph: 6585 3020 SATURDAY 8TH 10am Hastings Valley Miniature Railway – Family Day. Ride the mini railway @ Yippen Creek Reserve – Gold Coin Donation to ride.

Lions Club BBQ. Please wear covered footwear.

6.30pm Lasiandra Disco Venue: Wauchope RSL Club Entry: Children U18 - Gold Coin Donation. Adults - $5 SUNDAY 9TH 10am Bago Vineyards presents 'The Cedar Creek Band' Music 11am - 3pm. Admission $5 Children U/5 Free inc. entry to Bago Maze. Wine Tasting/Local Cheese Platters.

2pm Wauchope Youth Theatre Variety Show Venue: Wauchope Arts Hall Info/ Bookings: Gay 6584 1884.

3.30pm Lasiandra Fashion Parade Venue: Wauchope Country Club Auditorium. Fashion from Heart

F E S T I V A L

P R O G R A M

to Heart Lingerie, Night Time Elegance, Classique Fashions, The Department Store, Charlise Rose and Bodilines. Lucky Door Prizes, Raffles, Musical Entertainment, Rock n Roll Demonstrations. Fashion Stalls.

Entry: $5 per head. Kids under 16 FREE. Enq: 6586 0050.

WEDNESDAY 12TH 8.30am Ladies Golf Day 5pm Men’s Bowls - JACK DWYER MEMORIAL TRIPLES Wauchope Country Club Ph: 6585 3020 THURSDAY 13TH 8.30am PURPLE PEOPLE SHOPPING DAY Art & Craft Markets in the CBD. Judging of Staff Costume, Window Front & Premises Displays.

G U I D E •

and cupcakes.

Lifeline Shop, 41 Cameron Street, Wauchope.

1pm Hastings River Greyhound meeting featuring the 'LASIANDRA CUP'.

7pm Lasiandra Rock N Roll Dance, Wauchope Country Club Auditorium Entry: Children U18 - Free. Adults - $5.

Music by Chuck E. Entry by Gold Coin Donation.

Lucky Door & Spot Prizes, Dance Competitions. Fun for all the family.

Enq: Chuck E 6559 8332 / Chrissy 0412 137 621.

SUNDAY 23RD Diamond Ring Golf Day Wauchope Country Club Sponsored by Jon’s Family Jewellers.

SATURDAY 29TH

PURPLE & PINK DAY Timbertown Childcare .

6pm 30th Annual Lasiandra Festival Celebration Dinner & Presentations Venue: Wauchope RSL Club.

FRIDAY 14TH

Bookings Essential: $30 per head.

3.30pm Lasiandra Junior Tennis Classic Ph: Bob 0400 446 085.

Ph: 0412 137 621.

SATURDAY 15TH 10am to Noon Lifeline Garden Party Kids face painting, balloons, gardening

EASTER MONDAY WAUCHOPE JOCKEY CLUB’S 30th ANNUAL LASIANDRA TROPHY RACE. PRIZES FOR BEST PURPLE DRESSED. greater port macquarie focus 59

focusinterview.

PHO TO CR EDI TS: WI LD CHER R Y

TWO LOCAL ROLLER DERBY GALS ARE VERY EXCITED TO HAVE BEEN SELECTED TO TAKE PART IN THE PUSSYWHIPS VERSUS MOUSTASHIO NUTS BOUT ON FEBRUARY 8 AT PORT STADIUM. WHAT’S DIFFERENT ABOUT THIS MATCH IS IT’LL BE BOYS VERSUS GIRLS, PROMISING SOME BIG ACTION! i ladies. What are your names – and who are your alter-ego roller derby personas?

Roxanne Mann - derby name Roxalot 247.

Renee Ansley - derby name Baroness Shred 'er.

When and why did you become involved with the Port Macquarie Roller Derby League?

Roxanne: I joined the ‘Fresh Meat’ course in November 2012. I knew nothing about roller derby, so I did some Googling and decided to give it a go. Now it’s in my blood; it won’t let go.

Renee: I started with PMRDL by showing up one Friday night in April 2012 at a social skate. I had been interested previously; however, due to pregnancy didn't pursue. After ten minutes at a social skate, I knew I wanted to be back on skates (the last time I'd strapped on a pair was when I was 13!) I started my ‘Fresh Meat’ course pretty quickly after that and the rest, as they say, is history!

What do you love most about the sport?

Roxanne: The fitness, friendships and extended family. There is not one person who wouldn’t be there for me.

Renee: I knew nobody when I moved to Port Macquarie in 2010. Within weeks of joining PMRDL, I had met so many people - a lot of whom were in a similar position ...

What I started to find was that derby was exercise, but it was completely incidental to the fun I was having on skates. It's only recently now that we've started bouting that I've begun to realise I need to exercise more outside of the track to be able to better myself on the track - which is a challenge, because I hate it.

But I really, really love my sport. It's such a great way to get rid of any tension, and I love my teammates. We've been skating together as a team for almost two years, 60 greater port macquarie focus.

and we've formed such a close bond over that time. the pipeline?

Tell us about the Pussywhips versus Moustashio Roxanne: Well, there seems to be roller derby Nuts match you’ll be competing in on February 8 happening nearly every weekend somewhere, so I will at the Port Macquarie Stadium. With a name like be where the action is. Also, now being the President that, it sounds as if it’ll be quite a challenge! of Port Macquarie Roller Derby I will be putting a Roxanne: This game will be amazing! I’m so lot of focus into our league in helping it grow and honoured to have been selected for a spot on be awesome. Of course, I could not do it without the team. When I received the invite our already awesome committee: Psycho via message, I was shocked and so Bunnie, Baroness Shred 'Er, Polly ecstatic that I could be playing WannaCrackHer and Mojo Jojo! ve lo ly al with some of Australia’s best! re Renee: PMRDL have a bout , I really ch su ’s It t. or I’m going to get in there against New England Derby sp my d of ri t ge to ay and play my absolute best to lined up for 1 March, also at w t a grea d I love an n, io ns show I was the right gal for Port Stadium.

We are then te y an We’ ve the job! travelling to Coffs to compete my teammates . gether as been skating to Renee: It's a boys versus against the Coffs Coast Derby t two a team for almos rmed girls bout. Traditionally, roller Dolls in their season opening fo years and we’ve over derby is a women's sport; game on 15 March, and after nd bo such a close however, men are starting to that we have a weekend long that tim e.” be more and more involved, tournament here in Port again and the skating we will see on the on the 5/6 April, where we will 8th will be nothing short of brilliant. compete in several games across two There will be two teams, the vet days against teams from Coffs, Tweed teams and the new teams. The new team is Heads, Byron Bay, Clarence Valley, Armidale/ made up of a list of girls who were either selected Tamworth, and the Northern Rivers area. or waitlisted (it's a long list - it's an honour to be a We hope to have our two home teams established Pussywhip!) and the vet team are skaters who have this year and will then have more bouts for the public. been part of the 'Whips since day 1.

It's going to be a great year for derby for PMRDL! Port Macquarie actually have two men on the new Thanks ladies. Best of luck going up against the Moustachio Nuts team, the Shiny Screws: our head guys on February 8. coach Alby Mangled, and Roxalot's husband, Orgazmo.

See the girls and guys fight it out at the Port Stadium That's the awesome thing about derby - the whole on February 8, from 5pm – 9.30pm family can get involved. It's a kid friendly event, and Tickets cost $11.50 (children under 7 free). we encourage families to come down and watch some Get your tickets from http://www.stickytickets.com. amazing athletes in action; the atmosphere is electric au/13964 and the skating will be incredible.

Tickets also available at Port Macquarie Stadium.

After the match is over, what’s next on the roller Check with the venue for details and pricing. derby agenda for you two ... any other plans in Interviews by Jo Atkins.

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Come and see the great range of pumps in store at Colonial Cobbler.

A little history on Pumps A little history first on this amazing shoe as

‘court shoe’, the footwear for both sexes.

told by Frank de Jesus in the LT insider.

The pump remained relatively unchanged until the French Revolution, and even then they were simplified to a ballet flat.

Around 1500s, shoes began to be made with two parts, a flexible upper attached to a sturdier sole (prior to this, contemporary shoes were primitive sock-like things at best). They were called ‘pompes’.

The introduction of a heel, shortly thereafter, was in fact for the purpose of keeping a rider’s foot in a horse stirrup. This practical accomplishment became the basis for all shoes.

Leonardo da Vinci is sometimes credited with inventing the higher heel, although its origin is unknown. King Louis’ affinity for high-heeled, red-soled pumps made them enviable. Everyone wanted to emulate his majesty and pretty soon they did, making the high-heeled pump or

The modern age and suffrage are what took women’s pumps in a new direction.

For a long time these shoes were for the privileged few, but now a lady’s wardrobe would not be complete without a pair of pumps; in fact, one might say they’re indispensible.

A timeless classic that has many variations on the theme, but a pump is still a pump because it has no fasteners or laces; it stays on by virtue of its good fitting characteristics.

Come and check out the latest range of pumps at Colonial Cobblers.

The Barber Now Open With The Barber now open, what will you be offering new clients? We offer a unique, caring experience, taking the time to make sure the service provided is of the highest quality and with the greatest of care.

The Barber is a place to come that is relaxed and fun, and you walk out looking and feeling brand new!

Tell us about your background and experience in the industry. I have worked in hair design and gained experience with men’s and women’s styling over the past 7 years, working in both large and small Barber shops in Costa Rica.

Do you cater for all ages? Any specials for teens/kids? We cater for all men’s and boy’s barbering needs, all ages and styles.

Our prices are more than competitive, and our service is just that little bit extra. Senior card holders receive a 25% discount on our regular price of $20 and children under 16 are only $15, and for a beard trim or shave, it’s only $10.

How do you ensure an easy, stress free experience for clients? Come in, sit down, relax, read a current month’s magazine, have a chat, and we will do our best to make sure you're not waiting too long, and you will

definitely have a laugh!

What do you enjoy most about working in Port Macquarie? Moving here from Costa Rica last year, I have embraced the amazing life that it is to live in Port Macquarie - the people, the beaches and the life are just something amazing. The lifestyle here is something truly to be appreciated, and working here is incredible.

It is a different and amazing place with so many wonderful and beautiful features; I am privileged to have the opportunity to be a part of this special community.

greater port macquarie focus 61

focusinterview.

Kylie Bulmer is a woman on a mission … well, several missions, in fact! This hardworking, community-minded local has plans to fundraise for several worthy causes over the next 18 months or so – and with her go-getting attitude, the sky’s the limit as to what she can achieve. Find out how you can help Kylie achieve her goals …

Kylie Bulmer i Kylie. Share your story with us ... where do you work, and what’s your family background?

I’m Port Macquarie born and bred! I grew up here with my parents, Michael and Suelen, and my two sisters, Karen and Kimberley.

My mum and I took over the Beantree Café in Horton Street just over five years ago and have never looked back!

You’re planning to run 1,500 km between February and November. What’s the aim of these runs, and how are you planning to break this distance down into manageable chunks?

My aim for 2014 was to ‘run for a reason’.

My future father-in-law, Alan Jensen, has suffered from Multiple Sclerosis (MS) for 24 years, so I’ve seen the challenges that this disease presents to so many people on a daily basis. I’ll always remember one day finishing a run, and he could see the happiness and joy it gave me.

He then proceeded to tell me a story of how much he used to enjoy running too. I think of those who can’t run for a variety of reasons and what they would give to have this simple gift. So, I thought I could run on behalf of those who can no longer enjoy it themselves and raise money at the same time!

I plan to record my runs and progress on my Facebook page. I’ll start out slow, as I don’t want to injure myself early, but as my running progresses over the 10 months, my distances will get longer! I also plan to incorporate at least 10 running events, one being the 20 km Tough Mudder obstacle race!

How much money are you hoping to raise

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greater port macquarie focus.

from this exercise?

My set goal is $10,000, but obviously the sky’s the limit!

You’re also planning an event to coincide with Mother’s Day on May 11. What type of event will it be – and where will it be held?

The ‘Mother’s Day Classic’ is a walking event, which last year held 74 events Australia wide. The event will be held at Westport Park, with the walk starting at 10am and proceeding along the water to Town Beach kiosk, and then returning back to Westport Park. All in all, a leisurely 5 km walk for a great cause!

Individual and family registrations are available, so come on down and support a great cause – you will be able to register online or on the day from 8am.

What kind of activities/market stalls/ entertainment are you expecting to be available on the day?

The wheels are still in motion, but we have secured some great activities for the day already. Local favourite Stu and his coffee truck will be there, and Claire + Rebecca from Challenge Fitness will be on hand to conduct a fun warm-up routine to get us raring to go! We are encouraging all local market stall holders to bring their set-ups down if interested, and we also plan to have a sausage sizzle, games for the kids and music! Rebecca from Rei of Light and some of her massage friends will be there for your convenience, offering $1/minute massage throughout the day!

Where will funds raised from this event go?

All funds raised from the day will go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The

‘Mother’s Day Classic’ is all about raising - Beantree Café awareness and honouring those impacted, as And I would never have gotten this far well as funding vital research into treatment, without the constant support of my gorgeous detection and prevention. family, as they will help me get through this Emphasis is also placed on creating an inspicrazy year! rational community event that everyone can be To top off an extremely busy 2014, you’re involved in! also planning to visit the Simpson Desert What is it about fundraising that you most in 2015. What’s the purpose of this visit? enjoy?

Yes! In July, 2015 I plan to travel I enjoy trying to make a difto the famous Birdsville Pub ference in the lives of people to partake in The Big Red who aren’t as fortunate Run, a multi-stage ultra om fr ed is ra as me and believe we marathon over 6 s nd All fu the to go ill w y all deserve the same days covering 250 da the ncer Ca st ea Br chances in life to do km! It is an annual l na Natio e ‘Mother’s Th n. tio whatever we please, da fundraising event un Fo l about with no limitations. I for The Born to Day Classic’ is al and s raising awarenes pacted, feel incredibly lucky to Run Foundation, e im honouring thos vital have all that I do and who seek to raise g as well as fundin to be healthy, so I enmoney for research t, eatmen research into tr ” n. joy seeing other people into fi nding a cure tio even detection and pr have that same chance for Type 1 diabetes. too. I will always love the It will be a crazy, but quote: “Be the change you incredibly rewarding wish to see in the world.” experience!

Who would you like to thank for How can people support you sponsoring you/assisting you with your with all the activities you have fundraising efforts so far? planned, and what’s the best way to I have some wonderful local businesses contact you? who have sponsored me for my MS challenge People can follow my journey and dowho have collectively donated almost $4,000! nate to my MS challenge at www.facebook.

These include com/1500km4ms - Luke and his team at And The Rest Building Details for the Mother's Day Classic are also - Chris and his team at Laing and Simmons on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MDC. - Peter and his team at Sundial Dental Port.Macquarie - Kerrie and her team at World par-tea Or, anyone can contact me on k.bulmer@ - Cameron and Blake from IMSM (ISO outlook.com specialists) Thanks Kylie. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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6 63

By Glenise McLaughlin from The Natural Health Sanctum

By Shelley Laing from Beachside Medi Spa and Laser Clinic

Platelet Rich

Plasma Food Intolerance

The future of Cosmetic Medicine is Anti-Ageing through Regenerative Stem Cell Medicine. natural and safe medical procedure This top layer is the platelet rich plasma (PRP). that uses your own body's Stem Cells, Platelets in the blood contain chemicals called Blood Platelets and Growth Factors growth factors, which have been shown to cause to regenerate youthful, refreshed, cells to multiply and form new tissue. retexturised skin.

PRP contains a much higher Combined with concentration of platelets than This means Microneedling, Platelet Rich normal blood. This means that higher Plasma can be used as a that higher concentrations concentrations of e safe and effective form of of growth factors are ar s growth factor ck ba ed as skin rejuvenation and antibeing released back into le being re t area, en m at tre e th to ageing treatment to plump the treatment area, which in lerates and ce ac ch hi w the skin and reduce wrinkles accelerates and enhances g.” enhances healin around the eyes, face and healing. smoker's lines. Also known as PRP is taken from your own Dracula’s Therapy! blood, there are no risks of disease A nurse will take your blood (like transmission or allergic reactions. It is a normal blood test), which will then be completely natural. spun in a centrifuge, a machine which For further information on platelet rich plasma separates the blood into its various components.

(PRP) skin rejuvenation and tightening, phone The bottom layer contains the red blood cells, Shelley at BEACHSIDE MEDI SPA and laser clinic while the top layer is mostly plasma and platelets. on 6583 3588.

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Did you know? Up to 45% of the population is estimated to suffer from some form of food intolerance at some stage in their life.

That means almost one in two of us (including infants, children and adults) are being affected in some way by the food we are eating. WOW ... that’s a lot of people suffering.

Sometimes people can identify the offending food easily, because they feel unwell when they eat that particular food; others find it very difficult. The reason for this is that it can take up to three days for a symptom to appear, plus some people have been living with the symptoms for so long, that they think that it is ‘normal’ for them. For example, the milk or bread eaten today could be the cause of the joint pains three days later, and they can last for weeks. Can you imagine how hard it would be for an infant or a young child to be able to communicate what is wrong with them, when even adults find it difficult?

The symptoms of food intolerance can be many and varied, such as: fatigue, reflux, constant sinus conditions, joint pains, aching muscles and weakness, bloating, weight gain, difficulty losing weight, diarrhoea, constipation, stomach pains, difficult

concentration, headaches, migraines, sleeping difficulties, mood changes, including tantrums and crankiness, itchy skin rashes such as eczema – oh, the list could fill this entire publication! The severity of the symptoms vary as well, even within the same person. Food intolerance can significantly affect your ability to live a normal life.

You know it doesn’t have to be like this ... help is available.

At The Natural Health Sanctum, we use a quick, reliable and simple test for food intolerance that is suitable for infants, children and adults. We then design a comprehensive Food Intolerance Program specifically tailored to suit your individual health needs.

Call us at The Natural Health Sanctum on (02) 6583 3544 to take all the guess work out of finding out which foods are your ‘trigger foods’.

By JK Healthcare

HEALTH.

healthy + balanced diet and regular physical iron absorption. activity plays an important role in the • Limit intake of saturated and trans fats. Opt for lean development, management and prevention meats + trim fat and remove chicken skin. of a range of different health conditions.

• Aim for adequate calcium intake via 2-3 Women are more likely to suffer from serves of low fat dairy daily or suitable dairy iron deficiency, osteoporosis, increasing substitute. rly la gu re t Ea weight post menopause and mood • Limit alcohol consumption - limit intake and avoid disorders. Women are also more to no more than 2 standard drinks and e junk food. Includ likely to skip meals, resulting in ensure at least 2 alcohol free days. Opt adequate Omega inadequate dietary intake. for reduced alcohol/calorie varieties. ly oi 3 fats such as e ag an • Participate in regular physical activity. m lp • Aim for a balanced diet with a fish to he s.” er rd so di • Avoid skipping meals or comfort d oo m wide variety of nutritious food and eating when feeling low. Eat regularly drinks. and avoid junk food. Include adequate • Include whole grains such as cereal, Omega 3 fats such as oily fish to help manage oats and rice. mood disorders.

• Include ‘good fats’ such as oily fish, nuts,

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seeds and olive oil.

• Include red meat, fish and chicken most days.

Other sources of iron include fortified cereals, eggs, nuts and legumes. Include vitamin C with meals to improve 64

greater port macquarie focus.

For more information or to make an appointment with one of our Accredited Practising Dietitians - Jodie Kennett and Jessica Moss - please call JK Healthcare on 6583 7717 or email us at admin@jkhealthcare.com.au

foggy brain?

bloated? tired all the time? stomach upsets?

If you answered yes to any of the above, you could simply be suffering from an intolerance to one or more foods you are consuming.

Food intolerances may cause a range of slow-onset symptoms that are seemingly unconnected to specific foods. Symptoms can take up to 72 hours to appear, in which time a lot of different types of food and drink have been consumed, baffling the sufferer as to what has caused their discomfort. Although not life threatening, the impact on sufferers can be significant, sometimes affecting their ability to live normal healthy lives.

Symptoms of food intolerance are many and varied and can include anxiety (acute/chronic), arthritis, ADD, bed wetting, bloating, chronic fatigue syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, depression, muscle aches and pains, headaches, inflammatory bowel disease, insomnia, itchy skin problems, mood swings, sleep disturbances, weight control problems – and many, many more.

Sufferers often complain of seeming to be in a ‘fog’, feeling bloated and being tired all the time.

Up until now, food intolerances have been very difficult and time consuming to diagnose, due to the vagueness of the symptoms and the time lapse.

Now a quick, reliable, simple, safe test for food intolerance to 59 foods is available at The Natural Health Sanctum. This procedure is the world’s first in-clinic test available for food intolerance.

This test now forms part of our comprehensive Food Intolerance Program, which is specifically tailored to suit each individual’s needs. Be quick, be smart, be symptom free – book in for your Food Intolerance Program now.

Glenise McLaughlin – Naturopath with over 20 years’ experience, specialises in the natural treatment of food intolerances.

Children's Vision Many parents don’t realise that undiagnosed vision problems can result in learning or behavioural difficulties for children as they struggle to read, see the board or focus on the computer screen or iPad at school.

Many children at school have never had an eye examination.

Eyecare Plus Optometrists recommend that all young children have a full eye examination before starting school, and regularly as they progress through primary and secondary school.

Most vision problems can be corrected with spectacles, contact lenses and/or vision therapy. Early detection is the key to reducing the impact of vision problems on learning and the future development of healthy sight and vision.

Signs for parents to look out for: • One eye turns when the child is tired or when concentrating • Frequent blinking or rubbing of the eyes, red or watery eyes • Sensitivity to light • Squinting when watching television or playing computer games • Tilting head noticeably when looking at things • Covering or closing one eye when reading • Difficulty recognising familiar people in the distance • Reporting headaches or blurred or double vision • Difficulty learning to read • Books and hand held games held too close • Poor concentration and reduced attention span So don’t be complacent when it comes to your child's vision and organise a visit with your local Eyecare Plus Optometrist. No referral is necessary, and consultations are covered by Medicare.

Have you had your child’s eyes checked?

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PORT MACQUARIE: 95 William St... 6583 7333 29 Horton St.... 6584 3948 WAUCHOPE: 3 High St......... 6585 2393

www.eyecareplus.com.au greater port macquarie focus

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Dr. Deanna Dolbel B.ChiroSc. M.Chiro

Dr. Sam Johnson B.ChiroSc. M.Chiro

Port Macquarie Chiropractic Centre At Port Macquarie Chiropractic Centre we are passionate about providing superior chiropractic care to the whole family. We believe that chiropractic care should be an integral part of every family's health care plan and is essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy spine and nervous system free of interference.

Deanna is an enthusiastic chiropractor with a particular interest in pregnancy and paediatric care. She has completed further studies in both of these areas. Sam is an avid chiropractor with a passion for his profession and his patients. He has a special interest in the ageing population and has previously treated patients at a residential aged care facility.

What is Chiropractic? Chiropractic is therapy based on the important relationship between the spine and the nervous system. Since the nervous system controls and coordinates all of the systems of the body, spinal dysfunction can have wide ranging effects. A chiropractor will perform

66 greater port macquarie focus.

specific adjustments that help to restore proper function of the spine and nervous system.

How can chiropractic help me? Whilst chiropractic does not claim to cure certain conditions, it can help to improve the function of the body and symptoms such as low back pain, headaches, sciatic pain, disc injuries and neck pain.

With a better functioning spine, some people experience greater energy, better sleep and better concentration.

Can chiropractic help my child? Just like adults, children can also experience dysfunction within the spine. Interference to the spine and nervous system can occur due to a number of causes, including knocks and falls, bad posture, prolonged sitting and the birth process. We are passionate about providing chiropractic care for children, and for this reason we offer complimentary spinal checks for all children. (Located within Vibrance Mind and Body at Lighthouse Beach). www.portmacquariechiro.com.au

Tai Chi and Qigong New Year New You JK Healthcare will be conducting numerous education groups throughout 2014. Groups will be interactive, with a supportive learning environment.

Our group room is also available to rent privately, and we travel as needed to workplaces for staff training and accreditation.

Our Men’s Weight Loss group will start in February 2014 and will cover several topics, including: • Healthy Eating Guidelines • Recommended Serving Sizes • Food Label Reading and Shopping Tips • Meal and Snack ideas Weight loss doesn’t have to be hard. Start slowly and work on making some permanent lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity, reading food labels, suitable serving sizes, and limit alcohol intake. Look at making sustainable and realistic health or weight loss goals.

The only diet that will result in permanent weight loss is a healthy one including regular physical activity. Fad diets may work in the short term, but they are not sustainable and often lead to weight gain in the long run, as well as nutritional deficiencies.

To be involved, ask questions or to make an appointment with one of our Accredited Practising Dietitians (Jodie Kennett or Jessica Moss) please contact our friendly staff on : 6583 7717. Places are limited!

Although founded in ancient China, Tai Chi offers great benefits for not only stressed and tense people, but as a form of mild exercise. Tai Chi is a joy to learn. It comprises a sequence of easy to learn, choreographed movements, coordinated with deep diaphragmatic breathing exercises. Tai Chi embraces philosophy, deep relaxation, energy balancing, body movement and more. It relaxes the mind and body, aids in digestion, quiets the nervous system, benefits the heart and blood circulation and loosens joints. Tai Chi is an activity that can be played by young and old alike. There is no barrier to age.

Qigong is pronounced 'Chi Gong', and literally means 'breathing exercise'. It has a long history in China and is a traditional exercise among Chinese people for keeping fit.

In recent years it has aroused interest and attention of an increasing number of people in Australia and is now available here in Port Macquarie. 'Qi' in 'Qigong' not only means 'the air we breathe in', but actually refers to the inner vital energy. In modern terms it means resistance to diseases, adaptability to the external environment and ability to maintain good health.

In traditional Chinese medicine, great importance is attached to exercises that strengthen the vital energy, or the internal energy.

Robert Newton became Chief Instructor of the largest Tai Chi organisation outside of mainland China and was ultimately recognised in China as a Tai Chi Master. He is also a life member of the Kowloon Park Qigong Group in Hong Kong. He will commence a new class for beginners in Tai Chi and Qigong in Port Macquarie on Tuesday 11 February. Phone 6583 3886 for more information.

Dr. Bobby Kumar Cosmetic Surgeon Why choose Breast Augmentation?

Women choose Breast Augmentation to enhance breast size, shape volume for a variety of reasons, including: * Dissatisfaction with small or uneven breasts; * To restore volume & shape lost through pregnancy, breast feeding or weight loss; * To achieve confidence in a curvaceous & feminine figure.

Women considering Breast Implants should be fully informed as to the range of choices available, with surgery tailored to meet each individual’s needs & goals.

For example, choices regarding Breast Implants include; * Size/Volume, Shape, Projection * Smooth vs Textured (eg “furry Brazilian”) * Placement (eg above or below pec muscle) Can breast implants look natural? Yes! By far the majority of women who seek Breast Augmentation are looking for natural results, with full, shapely breasts in proportion to their body shape and figure.

Heard of Rapid Recovery? Dr. Bobby Kumar’s personal technique based on years of experience minimises pain and facilitates an optimal, efficient recovery.

NON-SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION Who better to perform consultation and treatment than a Cosmetic Surgeon?

WHEN WAS YOUR LAST SKIN CHECK? Dr. Bobby Kumar is now available for SKIN CANCER ASSESSMENT, TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT Consultations by Appointment – call Wendy today on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009 or visit www.bareaesthetics.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 67

Surgical facial Rejuvenation & Correction With constant exposure and the wear and tear of daily living skin “ages” SURGICAL FACIAL REJUVENATION Melanin, a pigment in the epidermis (superficial layer of skin) and collagen, a protein' building block ' in the dermis (deeper layer of skin) protect the skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet light and give strength and tone to the skin.

With constant exposure and the wear and tear of daily living, skin “ages”, showing up as thinner skin, loss of a bulk in subcutaneous (beneath the skin) fat and muscle and resulting in drooping skin, affecting both appearance and function.

The eyes are first affected, with stretched and droopy skin (blepharochalasia), prominent pockets of fat, and often drooping of the upper eyelid (ptosis), causing difficulty in keeping the eyes open.

The face shows the same changes. With skin drooping, the natural grooves in the face become more prominent and reduction in the volume and “show” of

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the lips which then appear thin.

Due to skin thinning, the skin of the nose slides downwards, making the tip less prominent and showing the shape of the cartilages beneath the skin.

The neck is a major concern to many, with droopy skin, accumulation of fat and the presence of longitudinal bands, due to the midline separation of muscles.

The brow/forehead is also affected, again with drooping of skin and eyebrows.

SURGICAL CORRECTION Modern surgical methods, used in the correction of the above problems, are more about restoration of function and appearance, rather than resection (removal) of skin and fat.

In most of the affected areas, the skin and deeper tissues droop downwards and correction is achieved by restoring deeper tissues to their original positions and draping skin over the restored deeper tissue, with minimal skin

resection. This gives a very natural facial rejuvenation, compared to previous corrections where the emphasis was on skin-tightening alone.

The neck is slightly different in that it has a “corset” made up of the two Platysma muscles, which hold the contents of the neck in position.

When these muscles come apart in the midline, their edges show up as longitudinal bands in the central neck.

In a neck lift, this corset is restored (corset platysmoplasty), in addition to removal of fat and skin.

Corrective and restorative surgery is sometimes done in isolation, eg. eyelid surgery, but often in combination, eg. face and neck lift.

Surgery gives good results which lasts for many years.

For operative details of the above procedures, please visit our website. www.pclscoffsharbour.com.au

A Premier Wellness Retreat Australia's premier health, wellness and lifestyle retreat is located in our own backyard in the beautiful Nulla Nulla Valley at Bellbrook.

Women’s • Health & Wellness •

• WOMEN’s Health & Wellness •

This haven of health and peace is the brain child of Michael and Barbara O’Neill. Michael has managed health retreats in Noosa and Melbourne and brings twenty six years of experience with him. His wife, Barbara, is a qualified naturopath and nutritionist, who regularly presents lectures on general and women’s health nationally and internationally.

Dynamic Insight Fitness Dynamic Insight Fitness is now open!

On offer are 8 and 15 day programs which consist of various activities, such as a twoday juice fast, massages, facials and expert naturopathic consultations.

There are accommodation packages for the budget-conscious and for those looking for a little more.

When you stay at Misty Mountain, expect to be treated to delicious vegetarian meals prepared from fresh ingredients, many grown organically on site, and served by caring and attentive staff.

Guests at Misty Mountain come from all over Australia, as well as international destinations.

Manager Michael O’Neill says, "We have a very strong referral base, as well as internet exposure that reaches all round the world. People today are looking for a genuine health retreat that

offers a path to wellbeing and renewed life.

Misty Mountain is well proven to provide just this."

Michael is also enthusiastic, as in the eleven years that it has been operating, the retreat has experienced a consistent growth of clientele to the point where it is often booked out. "If we didn’t do it right, then we would have to close our doors," said Michael. 'The fact is, we are a world-class health, wellness and lifestyle retreat, and our extremely-high satisfaction rate ensures that Misty Mountain continues to grow."

And if you need advice on how to get your fitness results fast?

With over 20 years' experience supplying fitness equipment to: NSW surf Ask Sue, Regina or Craig. Combined, they life saving clubs, NSW fire have over 40 years' experience in the brigades, pharmacies, fitness industry. schools, gyms, Women, it's your time now!

Come in and see this physios and resorts, we month's amazing Like most women, you've are now opening our opening specials, probably been looking packages with 12 - 24 doors to the public. after everyone else in the With such brands as: Force, Johnson, Livestrong and Everlast, we pride ourselves on quality and service.

months interest free & free delivery in Port Macquarie.

Come in and see this month's amazing opening specials, packages with 12 - 24 months interest free and free delivery in Port Macquarie.

family?

Well now, isn't it time to put your health first? We have a wonderful Women's Health Package just for you. It is possible for you to achieve your goals with your busy lifestyle.

Imagine looking and feeling great in no time, all in the privacy of your own home.

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• WOMEN’s Health & Wellness •

Fertility Treatments Preconception & Fertility Whether you have just begun thinking about starting a family or are experiencing problems, our fertility treatments can optimize your fertility and help to ensure a smooth and healthy pregnancy.

Women’s • Health & Wellness •

Pregnancy Support Pregnancy acupuncture is SAFE, GENTLE, RELAXING & EFFECTIVE. Help relieve morning sickness, boost energy, treat digestive issues and muscular aches and pains.

Labor Preparation and “Natural Induction” Beginning at 36 weeks, acupuncture is administered once a week as a safe and effective treatment to encourage natural labor.

OF

Treatments can also assist with breech babies, and if overdue, acupuncture can help to gently induce labor.

Post Natal Care Chinese Medicine is traditionally used in postnatal care. It helps with breastfeeding issues, postnatal depression, recovery and boosting energy.

Paediatric Care • Ear pain/infections • Asthma and allergies/ sensitivities • Digestive issues • Diarrhea

• Constipation • Eczema • Immune system support • Wellness care

Paediatric care uses a natural approach to children’s health issues by stimulating the body to heal itself without drugs or harmful side effects. Wellness visits can be an adjunct to conventional paediatric care by addressing health issues before they become a major problem.

Ivana Moudry is a qualified Doctor of Chinese Medicine.

Her focus is on Fertility, Pregnancy and beyond.

Photo by Rob Trezise Latitude 30 South Images

PREGNANCY HELP AUSTRALIA LTD (PHA) IS A NOT FOR PROFIT, NON PARTY POLITICAL AND NON DENOMINATIONAL NATIONAL UMBRELLA ORGANISATION FOR PREGNANCY HELP AND SUPPORT CENTRES THROUGHOUT METROPOLITAN AND REGIONAL AUSTRALIA. ell us about Pregnancy Help Australia ...

Pregnancy Help Australia Ltd (PHA) is a not for profit, non party political and non denominational national umbrella organisation for pregnancy help and support centres throughout metropolitan and regional Australia.

The organisation was first established in 1979 in South Australia by a group of like-minded people who saw the need to get together, to share their knowledge and skills.

PHA is a registered charity and provides support, education and resources to life-affirming agencies that offer positive choices for women, their partners and families.

Twenty members involving some 400 volunteers are based in Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania and the ACT. Most centres are self funded and rely

on fund-raising activities and donations.

The centres provide a diverse range of free services within their communities which may include (but not limited to) counselling, material assistance, early parenting support, home and hospital visits. Some even have access to crisis accommodation.

How is PHA funded?

In 1999 Pregnancy Help Australia was funded by the Commonwealth Government for several years to operate a fully staffed national office, provide resources to its members, operate a 1300 support line and conduct professional development conferences. In February 2011, the funding body changed its funding criteria and PHA was no longer eligible to apply. So the organisation had to ‘tighten its belt’ and streamline services to its members. Unfortunately they also had to cancel the national advertising of the 24/7 1300 support line, so it makes it difficult for people in need to find them easily.

Pregnancy help australia focus competition PREGNANCY HELP AUSTRALIA IS OFFERING ONE LUCKY FOCUS READER A HANDCRAFTED BRONZE PHA PENDANT VALUED AT $55.

To be in the draw simply tell us in 25 words or less ‘What it means to be a mother … ’ submit your entry by email to chrissy@focusmag.com.au by 28 February, 2014. The winning entrant will be notified by return email no later than 7 March. To learn more about PHA, its members and their mission visit www.pregnancysupport.com.au or call 1300 792 798 for pregnancy support 24/7.

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PHA now relies heavily on donations from supporters and fundraising activities. Tell us about your latest fundraising initiative ...

One such innovation was to develop something unique that PHA could sell.

With the help and creativity of Jeramie Carter, a silversmith from Nana Glen (25km north west of Coffs Harbour), a pendant was designed and crafted using PHA’s Symbol of Life logo.

The PHA Pendant is tear drop shape for the mother, the stylized child in the centre and five dimples on the side depicting the five senses or our five fingers and toes (whichever you prefer).

Jeramie has certainly crafted a jewellery piece with depth and meaning.

The unique pendant is crafted in silver or bronze and is a perfect gift for a new mother; a christening; a birthday or for anyone who likes to wear distinctive jewellery with meaning. To purchase your PHA Pendant - go to www.phapendant. com.au

Women’s • Health & Wellness •

Support OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESSS MONTH

Don't ignore gnore the

Did you know that ovarian cancer has the lowest survivall rate of any women’s cancer ate and has a five year survival rate well below the average for all cancers?

O

varian Cancer Australia is calling on all Australians this February to show their support for women with ovarian cancer by getting involved in Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

In an annual month-long campaign, Ovarian Cancer Australia invites men and women of all ages to help raise awareness of the symptoms, risks and impacts of ovarian cancer, as well as raise vital funds for support, awareness, advocacy and research.

Ovarian Cancer Australia’s CEO Alison Amos said that many people are not aware that ovarian cancer has the lowest survival rate of any women’s cancer and there has been very little improvement in survival in the past 20 years.

“Our aim throughout Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is to highlight the symptoms and risks of ovarian cancer, and also increase awareness of this disease, so more funding can be allocated to advancements in treatment,” she said.

With no early detection test, the best way to do this is to ensure women learn the four key symptoms: • Abdominal or pelvic pain; • Increased abdominal size or persistent bloating; • Needing to urinate often or urgently; • Feeling full quickly after eating a small amount.

If symptoms are new for women and they experience one or more of them persistently over a four-week period, they should consult their GP. To assist women in tracking these symptoms, Ovarian Cancer Australia has released the ‘K.I.S.S. & Make Up’® iPhone app which records the symptoms over a four-week period and generates a report to help inform their GP. The app is available for free from iTunes.

Each year 1,400 Australian women are

diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and around 1,000 will die from the disease.

According to a recent study, more than half of women mistakenly believe ovarian cancer is detected by a Pap smear, when in fact its purpose is to test for early signs of cervical cancer. Conducted by the Wallis Group, the study also shows that one in five Australians knows someone who has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Of those, over 40% were family and over 50% were friends or colleagues.

Ovarian Cancer Facts and Figures: • There is no early detection test for ovarian cancer – contrary to popular belief, the Pap Smear does not detect the disease.

• Each year 1,400 Australian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and more than 1,000 will die from the disease – that’s one woman every 8 hours!

• Each day in Australia, four women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and three will die from the disease.

• In Australia, the overall five year survival rate for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer is 43%. In comparison, the overall five year survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer is 89%.

• If diagnosed early, the majority of women can survive. Unfortunately without an early detection test for ovarian cancer, the majority of women are diagnosed with advanced stages of the disease.

To get involved and help raise vital funds for awareness, support and research during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: • Buy a Teal Ribbon - Teal Ribbon Day, February 26. Ribbons available locally at Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacies in Port Macquarie and Wauchope.

• Register to host an ‘Afternoon Teal’ with friends and colleagues; • Make a donation – $2 and over is tax deductible.

For more information about Ovarian Cancer Australia, please visit:

Bring your friends along for an afternoon at the movies and support a great cause.

www.ovariancancer.net.au Come to our Afternoon Teal! Join Judy and the girls from Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacy for an 'Afternoon at the Movies'.

At Majestic Cinemas in Port Macquarie on Sunday, March 2. The special screening of Saving Mr Banks will start at 2.30pm.

The story of how Walt Disney courted P.L. Travers into letting him option the rights to Mary Poppins is brought to the screen in this non-fiction drama starring Tom Hanks, Emma Thompson, and Colin Farrell.

A doting father, Walt Disney (Hanks) promises his adoring daughters that he will bring their favorite fictional nanny Mary Poppins to the big screen.

Little does Walt realise that surly author P.L. Travers has no intention of seeing her most famous creation bastardised for moviegoers - a fact that makes keeping his promise a difficult endeavour. Years later, however, when Travers' book sales begin to slow, dwindling finances drive her to schedule a meeting with Disney to discuss the film rights to the beloved story. Later, just when it begins to appear that the rights to Mary Poppins have slipped through his fingers, the ingenious Disney reflects back on his childhood, and realises that a sensitive chapter from Travers' youth could be the key to clinching the deal.

Tickets for the Plunketts 'Afternoon at the Movies' are $25, and include your cinema ticket, popcorn and drink at the movies, and afternoon tea provided.

ONLY available at Plunketts Chemmart Pharmacies in Port Macquarie and Wauchope.

Last year, 440 Afternoon Teals® were held. This year, the aim is to reach 500 and raise $500,000.

Join Judy and the girls at Plunketts to help contribute this year!

PD Warrior now at Sports & Spinal Clinics 'Models' shown are actual patients of Saacks Orthodontics

A laugh is a

SMILE

that bursts Mary H Wildrup

FREE ORTHODONTIC CONSULTATION FOR YOUNGER CHILDREN Permanent teeth generally begin to come in at age 6 or 7. It is at this point that orthodontic problems become apparent. "Because bones are still growing, it‘s an ideal time to evaluate," says Dr Eric Saacks. "Then we can determine what orthodontic treatment, if any, may be needed either now or in the future."

Orthodontic treatment in younger children is known as interceptive orthodontics.

Intervention may begin as early as age 6 or 7. At this age, the jaw and teeth are still developing. That means certain conditions, such as crowding, cross bite, and protruding teeth may be easier to address, either immediately or with the knowledge of possible future problems plan a suitable treatment course which could result in considerable savings.

Call us today to arrange a no-obligation orthodontic consultation for your child. You’ll come away from the consultation with all the facts. And your child can look forward to a truly healthy smile. Call 6584 2333

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greater port macquarie focus.

An Australian treatment approach that uses intensive exercise to 're-wire the brain' of people with Parkinson's Disease may be able to slow the progression down in up to 80,000 Australian sufferers.

Described as a 'game changer' in how Parkinson's Disease is treated, the combination of challenging physical exercise and mental activity has been shown to improve mobility and confidence levels in people with the degenerative movement disorder.

PD Warrior uses workouts with exaggerated movements, along with mental exercises, to retrain the brain to allow everyday movements with ease. This combats the slower and shorter movements that Parkinson's usually generates.

The real magic comes from an activity called 'dual-tasking', which is physical activity and mental activity at the same time, helping the brain to find new pathways. For example, boxing whilst naming the ways to cook an egg, or marching whilst counting backwards from

100 in multiples of seven.

Heidi Lambert is the 'PD Warrior Guru' at Sports and Spinal Physiotherapy group.

"Exercise is front line for people with Parkinson's Disease. Purposeful movement can combat the loss of motor control seen in Parkinson's Disease, and our program combines a high effort, intensive workout with a challenging combination of movements and mental stimulation. We know that periods of inactivity for people with Parkinson's Disease can lead to further and faster deterioration of the brain's function. The right kind of exercise can improve the functioning of brain pathways not already destroyed by the disease," says Heidi.

This unique therapy approach will help to build your confidence, improve your mobility and get you back into life. For more information or to book into one of our PD Warrior classes, call Sports and Spinal Physiotherapy Group In Port Macquarie on 6584 5379 or Laurieton on 6559 7500.

FEBRUARY 2014

WITH TERRI

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23

You can expect good news regarding family matters. Home influences will bring opportunity to celebrate. A feeling of being on top of things can be anticipated, so make the most of this time and keep gratitude in your heart as strong as possible to receive maximum benefit from all the blessings you will be receiving.

Rose quartz enhances love. Wear some.

New career changes are likely to challenge your comfort zone, but will lead to growth in your confidence. Throw yourself into new opportunities, as this will give you positive reflection time.

You are much more able than you acknowledge.

Don’t judge yourself; just say yes and fake it until you make it.

Amethyst is great for connecting to our higher qualities and life’s purpose.

PISCES.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

February 20 - March 20

June 23 - July 23 Ju

October 24 - November 22

A nice feeling of personal satisfaction can be anticipated this month. The opposite of feeling you need support from others; in fact, you are quite chuffed with yourself and independent.

You are very inspirational to others, as when you are confronted with challenge, you have the ability to rise above it and only allow it to make you more powerful.

Garnet will enhance your passion for living.

Avoid stressing over finances, as this stress is blocking your ability to create wealth because your current belief, which is there isn’t enough money, is being lived out. By tricking your subconscious into believing there is more than enough, you will create that path by which to live. Look at how money always finds you when you need it and know this will always be the case.

Citrine creates an abundance. Carry some in your wallet.

Avoid stressing over finances; everything will be fine for the short term, as well as the future.

Focus instead on how much you enjoy what you do and stay intellectually stimulated. You are good at keeping your word; make a commitment to yourself and stand by it. This will strengthen your will power, and your confidence will grow.

Citrine attracts abundance. Carry some in your wallet.

ARIES.

LEO.

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

An opportunity to travel will present itself. Not only does it come at an opportune time, but you can also expect a balance of your mind, body, spirit and emotions. However, at the time of hearing this offer, you may be feeling financially vulnerable. You have previously learned how to stretch your money, so make your choice without fear.

Ruby shatters fear. Wear some for a few weeks.

Now is a good time to keep your thoughts productive and positive; find something intellectually challenging and throw yourself into it. A bored mind is a dangerous thing for a fire sign, so have fun learning. An important speech is looming. If you remain silent, conflict is likely to follow; if you stand your ground and communicate lovingly, all will be good.

Turquoise is great for positive communication.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

Avoid being caught up in how you will be able to support yourself comfortably in the future; you have always been able to progress from one opportunity to the next with perfect timing, so see this as a gauge in how you manifest and thank yourself for being self sufficient. Avoid placing emphasis on negative possibilities.

Turquoise sustains our confidence.

Avoid being caught up in feelings of abandonment or rejection; you are much loved and appreciated by all who know you. If you experience feelings of being unwanted, connect to your God belief for comfort. This influence will not be long lasting, and good news will follow.

Celebrations will be likely to be on the agenda soon.

Clear quartz will help maintain strong positive thoughts.

You have recently been summing up life and have made conscious choices to move into the future with only positive attitudes and influences. Now you need to stand your ground and break any lingering habits that impede this choice, to ensure your happy outcome. You can have the strongest will when you need it, so don’t be afraid to use it.

Clear quartz enhances our energy making choice easy.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

Your leadership skills are being drawn on for your recognition. Work changes will be requiring these qualities to be practiced more. By seeing what a natural leader you are, so will others, and career advancement will follow. Your ability to offer win/wins when arbitrating will be used more frequently also.

Turquoise assists in recognition of one’s higher qualities.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Adventure is in store for you. You can anticipate finding an opportunity that will benefit you enormously on your return home. To access the best of what this journey will present, it will benefit you to have a chat with your inner child.

Ask what they need and listen telepathically to your answer. Then just think the answer to them.

Herkimer diamonds help record our joyous experiences for future memories.

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74 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Lance showing Lisa how to remove leaves from a root over rock style Port Jackson Fig.

A Penjing (Chinese style) Juniper; 15 years old.

h a s t i n g s

Bonsai Club Growing bonsai takes skill and patience, but the stunning end results speak for themselves. From 28 February to March 2, you have the chance to learn more about these beautiful plants from Lance (Club President) and other members of the Hastings Bonsai Club, as they host an exhibition at Port Panthers …

Lance about to demonstrate to new club members how to root prune and repot a Privet.

New members Kerry, Lyn and Brian working on their Junipers.

Lance demonstrating the 'root over rock style' of bonsai ...

W

hen did the Hastings Bonsai Club become established?

The Hastings Bonsai Group was started by 3 enthusiasts from Port Macquarie: John, Chris and myself.

Our first official meeting was on 8 June 2013, and we had enlisted 43 members. Today, our membership stands at 72.

What led you to become interested in bonsai growing?

I have been interested in gardening since I was a teenager (I am 61 now). We lived in the ACT and surrounding area for 20 years, and I worked part time at the Japanese embassy as a gardener (no bonsai at the embassy).

My introduction to bonsai was locally, outside Big W at Settlement City. There was a small bonsai display there, and I spoke with the two ladies who had trees on display.

I bought my first couple of trees from a nursery in Table Street (Branches Nursery), but my introduction was short-lived. I came home one day and our new pup had pulled my trees apart!

Fast forward to 2003. I was looking on eBay, and noticed some bonsai trees for sale. I was lucky to find the seller very helpful, and this led me to buying more trees.

As I travel a lot, I soon found bonsai nurseries in Sydney and on the Gold Coast. I taught myself by reading and looking at the internet, and finding other bonsai collectors and viewing their collections.

What’s involved in growing and maintaining bonsai?

Bonsai do need a lot of care. It's like most pot plants - you have to fertilise and water them. You will have to learn about root pruning and re-potting, and the time of year this needs to be done. Bonsai use special soils made for bonsai, and you also need to know how to

maintain the style of your tree by pruning it.

Then, you need to learn how to style and wire your trees.

What’s some of the history behind bonsai growing ... do we know where the practice originally stemmed from (pardon the pun)?

When we mention bonsai, most people think of Japan, but bonsai started out in China about 2,000 years ago. The Chinese farmers found it easier to plant fruit trees in pots, to be able to move them around.

Bonsai, as we see it today, did not start until around 1900, when the Cantonese started training their trees by the 'grow and clip' method. This is where they would cut the branch to encourage it to grow in a particular direction.

The introduction of bonsai into Japan was more likely by the Buddhists, as Buddhism was in existence in China, and monks introduced Buddhism into Japan. The first authentic record of a bonsai appeared on a picture scroll in 1309.

As more trade began between the countries, the exports of these usually potted trees grew.

Early in 1900, the first group of Japanese enthusiasts started to meet, then the first public bonsai exhibition was held in Tokyo in 1927.

After World War II, servicemen in Japan became fascinated by these small trees and began sending them back to the USA. In Australia, bonsai came to light with Vita and Dorothy Koreshoff. The Koreshoff family arrived here from Russia in 1928 and, by 1932, they were growing bonsai trees. Their bonsai collection is the oldest in Australia.

In Japan, bonsai means plant (sai) in a small pot (bon). In China, it basically means the same thing, but it is called Penjing.

What’s the aim of the club?

Our club's main aim is to bring together people who are interested in bonsai.

We are lucky enough to have some members who have been doing bonsai for over 30 years.

We teach new members the history of bonsai, then move on to the tools that are

required. This does not mean that they have to members. On display will be traditional bonsai, buy expensive tools. We show them how they bonsai growing on rocks, landscapes and forcan make tools to help them along the way, est. The size of the trees will range from bonsai until they feel comfortable enough to start buy- that you can hold in one hand, to bonsai that ing their own. require two or more men to lift. The age of We also show them the various pots we use, the trees will range from a few years old to 80 plus talk about soils, fertilising and basic care. years.

Once we have done that, we teach them about We will have demonstrations in the morning re-potting and root pruning trees. The wiring and afternoon, plus there will be a club inforand styling is taught later on. mation table where the public can At our meetings, we always ask questions about bonsai. have trees, pots, tools, wire, Are there any costs inill w e and soil available for volved with attending On display w al on members to buy. the exhibition? iti have trad g in ow gr ai The group also has a Entry to the exhibibonsai, bons es ap sc nd la good library that covers tion is $4 for adults, on rock s, of ze si e Th . st re all aspects of bonsai pensioners $2 and and fo e from ng ra ill w s ee tr that members are children are free. the can hold welcome to borrow. bonsai that you We are asking the bonsai in one hand, to What time and place public to get involved or more that require two are your club meetby voting for their men to lift ...” ings held? favourite tree, and they The Hastings Bonsai have a chance to win a $50 Group meet on the second SatBunnings voucher. The children urday of each month at the Rotary can also get involved by trying to Hall located at Hamilton Green on Hastings find the skeleton hidden in one of the River Drive, where the Sunday markets are bonsai trees and a chance to win a $30 toy held, starting at 10am. voucher.

Membership costs $20 per adult, pensioners We will also be running a raffle, with the first $15, and juniors $5. There is a fee on the Satur- prize being a choice of a bonsai tree or a Bunday which is $5/person, which goes towards nings garden hamper. Third prize will be a $50 the hall hire, and the group also supplies cofBunnings gift voucher. fee/tea and biscuits for the day.

Our group will be raising money towards the The club is holding a bonsai exhibition at Westpac Helicopter service.

Port Panthers from February 28 – March 2, More info? open 10am – 5pm and 10am – 3pm Sunday.

They can call me, Lance, on 0419 850 056 What will people be able to learn about or by email: hastingsbonsai@tomm.com. these beautiful plants? au or they can just come along to any of our This will be our first major exhibition, and we workshops. will divide it into two sections. One will be the We will be having a small display at Bunnings 'apprentice area', where our new members, on 22 February, and the first 50 readers of just starting their bonsai journey, can display FOCUS who mention this article will receive a their progress. complimentary family ticket to our exhibition.

The other section will be for the experienced Thanks Lance. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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focusinterview.

Vintage P o r t s If you’re 35 and over, male or female, and keen on Rugby – there’s a chance for you to don the boots and enjoy a game locally with modified rules and a team of friendly people! Bruce Thompson is a member of The Vintage Ports, a sub-club of the Port Macquarie Pirates Rugby Union Club. And the push is on – the Vintage Ports need more veteran members to join their ranks! i Bruce. How long have you played Rugby, and what do you most love about the sport?

My schoolboy football all had limited choices - at my school, you played Rugby League, or nothing. It was not until the 1970s I became interested in Rugby. I was attracted to it by the camaraderie of the Rugby family; it is much more binding than other sports, particularly for players who are now too old for their grade careers.

Who, or what, are the 'Vintage Ports’?

Vintage Ports is a sub-club of Port Macquarie Pirates Rugby Union Club, with members aged 35 years and up. We, men and women, play Rugby with special rules to respect our ages, we enjoy regular social activities and do a bit of community volunteering work. The Rugby is optional – the partying compulsory!

What’s the history behind the club - who got the ball rolling?

The concept of Veterans’ Rugby was mooted by a retired New Zealand All Black, Tom Johnson, who, when visiting USA, saw Veterans and Masters competitions for other sports for seniors and thought the idea could be adapted to Rugby.

With the help of Air New Zealand, the first Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival was held in Auckland in 1979. Fifteen teams played. This small festival grew into, which is still the record, 197 teams in 1995 in Christchurch, when 6,000 players and partners had a fantastic week of fun, friendship and fraternity.

We expect this September’s festival in Argentina to 76 greater port macquarie focus.

be huge. olds, which restricts their involvement.

Our own club was formed in 1983 under the We will provide interested prospects with a fun guidance of Barry Stent, Frank Arnell, Mac Adams day, demonstrate our type of touch football and and Wayne Richards, who later went on to become softer Rugby and put on a free BBQ. What activities will happen on the day ... will Mayor of Port Macquarie. A team of 37 attended the any matches be played, and will there be other 1983 Festival held in Sydney. Since then, we have atentertainment? tended festivals all over the world.

We often have around ten visiting What’s your role with the club teams from north, west, Sydney, these days? the Hunter and, of course, our Club treasurer and the We, men and local mortal enemies, Hastings happy hooker. women, play Valley Wrinkled Horns, a subWhen, where and how s ial rule Rugby with spec , we often does the club club of the Vikings. es to respect our ag meet?

It’s early days yet, but al ci enjoy regular so bit of how’s the 2014 season The committee meets a activities and do eering shaping up for you guys nt monthly, the Argentina lu vo community so far? sub-committee as necessary, work. ” We held our AGM, followed and we usually hold a game by food and drinks in January and/or a social event most and then an Australia Day cricket months. Stuart Park and Port City match against Pirates Rugby - the Club are our usual haunts. young blokes who found their cricket skills What comps or other Veteran teams greatly enhanced from competing against age from around NSW does the club enter or compete against? and cunning.

We attend carnivals from Grafton down to This month sees the start of our playing season the Hunter and west as far as Moree, Barraba and and parties, plus the September Argentina Festival; Walcha. we still have vacancies for players or non-players.

What’s the event you’re organising for March 1, How do people go about contacting you for more information about either joining the club and where will it be held? or the Gala Day? It’s an Annual Gala Day plus a much needed Contact Bruce 0447 404 291, Pammy 0402 826 membership drive at Stuart Park. We need to recruit 672 or Leon 0419 276 785. men and ladies to boost our numbers. Times have Thanks Bruce. changed; when I was 40, my son was 20. But now Interview

by Jo Atkins. retiring grade players marry later and have five year

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focustravel with Susie Boswell

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N :

S I C I LY ince 1996 when Frances Mayes published Under the Tuscan Sun, the Tuscany region’s enjoyed a highly popular profile among international tourists to Italy, itself the fifth most visited country in the world. Now, Sicily – the Mediterranean’s biggest island, lying off the toe of the “boot” of Italy – is beginning to enjoy its time in the sun, despite its “remoteness” from the mainland.

Asked to name what immediately springs to mind about Sicily many respond: “Mount Etna” - the most active volcano in Europe - or “Home of the Mafia” – the Cosa Nostra, subject of much gangster fiction and, moreover, continuing real-life criminal activity. Yet Australia’s Foreign Affairs Department advises taking only normal travel precautions when visiting Sicily, compared with destinations such as Bali, for instance, where its advice is to exercise “a high degree” of guardedness. The Mafia have bigger fish to fry than mugging tourists, travel authorities explain. But, for safety and to get around the sometimes challenging territory easily, guided tours are becoming increasingly favoured.

Sicily is most admired by visitors for its beautiful extant Greco-Roman-Moorish architectural heritage, for its magnificent beaches and pale blue water ... and for its food. International tourists are motivated by, and expect, wonderful food experiences in Italy, yet many are returning home raving about the standout cuisine of Sicily. Travel bible Lonely Planet says in Sicily it seems the sun shines brighter and life’s lived full-on and for the moment: one should visit, it says, with a healthy appetite for the “uncompromisingly high quality” of the cuisine.

Just one tour, offered by a British-based Peter Sommer Travels, offers a 13-day encounter with the strategically-located island’s extraordinary history and culture, taking in the well-preserved remains of Greek, Roman and Phoenician cities studding its coasts, where honey-coloured ancient temples stand among orange groves and almond trees. The tour explores baroque towns hugging steep hills, the modern metropolis of Palermo and visits the vine-clad slopes of Mount Etna. Sicily’s picturesque and historic towns are a feast for the senses, Sommer assures his guests, and there’s plenty of time to explore piazzas

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and meandering streets, or sample increasingly renowned and varied wines before ending your day in atmospheric hotels or grand rural estates set in the heart of the Sicilian countryside. The tour’s complemented by what he declares are excellent meals in specially chosen restaurants, wineries and trattoria, highlighting the country’s rich gastronomic tradition.

This tour, led by historian Dr Michael Metcalfe and limited to a group of 16, departs in two months’ time, running from Sunday April 6 to Friday April 18, at around $6000pp twin share with a single supplement of around $1000.

Inclusions are all meals except for two dinners, 3 to 5-star hotels, transfers, minibus travel, entrance fees and tips.

But if that’s too soon, the operator is offering a different tour later in 2014. The eightday Sicily Gastronomic Tour from Saturday September 27 to Saturday October 4, limited to ten guests, includes experiences such as strolling through bustling markets, meeting providores and sampling their fresh cheeses and wares, overseen by passionate foodie Marcelo Baglioni. Enjoy a cheese sample sliced from the block, dressed on the spot with fresh garlic and lemon juice, drizzled with oil and handed over with a slice of just-baked crusty bread.

Visit an olive farm and a fishing village, and more, including a comprehensive coverage of the island’s architectural treasures. For itinerary, inclusions and prices, see www.petersommer. com/escorted-archaeological-tours/italy/ exploring-sicily or contact info@petersommer. com There are of course many other tours on offer. Peregrine, for example, has a Spirit of Sicily 11-day excursion. Best months to travel weatherwise are May to June and September to October. The Peter Sommer tours are available online; research the destination via, e.g., tripadvisor’s Sicily Tourism, otherwise see a travel agent for options and to plan thoroughly.

Connections from the Italian mainland are good; return flights from Rome to east-coast Catania’s Fontanarossa airport are available at less than 100 euros. greater port macquarie focus 77

focustourism.

Port Macquarie Tourism Association Tours - Port Macquarie’s only 4X4 tour company and Port Macquarie Horse Riding - located at Cassegrain Winery, just a 10 minute drive from Port Macquarie’s town centre. For more details, check out Port Macquarie Info website: www. portmacquarieinfo.com

T o u r is m

An extensive media campaign will air in March, with The Legendary Pacific Coast Beaches to Bush Campaign. This will showcase the fantastic area that we live in. Share the website: www.legendaryportmacquarie.com.au Draft Greater Port Macquarie Destination Management Plan is on public exhibition until 16 February, and comments from the community are invited.

janette hyde.

What a great January locals and tourists have experienced ...

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he weather was fantastic, the beaches pristine, and the hinterland was just picturesque.

It was a bumper holiday season - the ‘Live Like a Tourist’ campaign run by the Tourism Team within Economic Development at Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has been a huge success and contributed to the bumper season, as the locals had a ‘staycation’.

The Port Macquarie Beatles Festival is happening again 15 - 23 February. If you are a Beatles fan, there is a feast of activity planned.

Three great shows, entertainment in the Port

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Central/Glasshouse Forecourt, Trivia Night, Car Show, Entertainment on Westport Park, Family Fun and Rock and Roll Dancing.

Don’t miss Sydney Weekender broadcasting on 15 February, with an interview with the Mayor regarding our Local Government Tourism Award.

Sunrise Weather Broadcast at Town Beach on Tuesday 14 January: Edwina and the Ice Cream Truck saw a massive turnout and the most soft serve icecream served to date – 20 litres!

Some new tourism operators have started up over the past couple of months, Bago 4WD

National Tourism Awards are on 7 February, with gold award recipients from State awards up for nomination. From Greater Port Macquarie, these are The Corner Restaurant for Tourism and Catering Services and Port Macquarie-Hastings Council for Local Government Award for Tourism. We wish our 2 gold winners the best of luck.

Last month I mentioned one of Port Macquarie’s engaging coastal walks. This month I would recommend Grants Beach Coast Walk. This walk starts at North Haven and ends at the cliffs of the Grants Headland. It is well signposted and passes though wildflower heaths, a melaleuca swamp and small areas of littoral rainforest and eucalypt forests.

For more information, check out Port Macquarie Info website www. portmacquarieinfo.com

ACTIVITIES PLANNED FOR FEBRUARY Annual Grape Stomping Championships at Bago Vineyards, Sunday 9 February 2014 gates open from 10am. Join the public annual grape stomping championships and regular Sunday Jazz in the Vineyards. Teams of two jump in wooden barrels to see how much juice they can stomp out of 10 kg of grapes in 60 seconds. The fun doesn’t stop there; get lost in the biggest hedge maze in the southern hemisphere. So bring along your picnic rugs and umbrellas, pick a spot on the lush rolling lawns and settle in for a great day.www. bagovineyards.com.au NSW Junior State Touch Competition, Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 February 2014. Greater Port Macquarie is excited to be hosting the NSW Junior State Touch Competition again this year - the world’s largest weekend touch football competition. More than 300 teams are expected to compete in the event which will bring around 12,000 competitors and spectators to the Hastings.www.sportingpulse. com Port Macquarie Beatles Festival, Saturday 15 to Sunday 23 February 2014. Port Macquarie Beatles Festival will be held over 5 days, with great Beatles music, classic car show, Rock ‘n’ Roll dancers, outdoor market, entertainment on the Town Green, street parade, dance parties and more. There is something for the whole family. Check out the Port Macquarie Beatles Festival Program at www. portmacquariebeatlesfestival.com

Disability Services: How individualised funding could help give YOU the freedom to live independently Kim Frumar’s son, Samual, has benefitted immensely from the funding he received under the Support Living fund. A similar fund will be available under the Government’s ‘NDIS’ National Disability Insurance Scheme. Kim tells us about the support, confidence and freedom that this funding has given Samuel and how it has helped and encouraged him to live independently. im, tell us a bit about yourself and your son Sam? Sam is our only child, my husband Warren and I adopted Sam when he was a little baby. It was later found that Sam had a chromosome abnormality, which led to a intellectual disability. We have always worked on the premise that he will be as independent as possible. When we were looking for ways he could live independently it was at the time when the Government had opened the rounds for the Supported Living Fund. We put an application in on behalf of Sam and he was fortunate to get selected into the first round, so he was the first young person in town to get that type of funding.

What is the funding available for, what does it cover?

It covers a whole range of things, of course there is a lot of things that it doesn't cover.

The main things that it covers is the support to live independently, support to asisst him in the home with things that other people don't need help with such as doing the shopping, or engaging in recreational actives, cooking

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and up keep of the home. We were able to work out how much support he needed and what times of the day he needed it. The other things it can pay for is the support to help him engage in the community, different activities.

One of the activities that he does quite frequently is African drumming, so it allows the support worker to go along with him.

How long does the funding last for?

Well it's recurrent funding which is really nice, so it should last his life time. I think what will happen is he will be moved across to NDIS funding on a comparative level as that rolls out across the country.

For Sam as a person, what do you think this has meant to him to be able to live independently?

He has certainly grown as a person, he has become self sufficient in many ways. He still needs quite a lot of support but he really likes having his own place. We have managed to organise a flat mate for him, who is actually at University. That was also what we were able to use part of the funding for, the student pays less then market rent for his accommodation

about t h e program he NSW Government is committed to improving the lives of people with a disability, their families and carers.

People with a disability, their families and carers have expressed the need for greater choice and control over state-based disability funding and resources, and the supports and services they access in their daily lives. To ensure that these people are at the centre of decision making about the services they need, the NSW Government will implement person centred approaches by the end of 2014.

Ageing, Disability and Home Care’s (ADHC’s) is looking to expand the range of accommodation support options to offer more choice for

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people with a disability, their families, carers and support networks. This includes promoting individualised funding and supported living arrangements for people with a disability, their families, carers and support networks that are inclusive and designed around individual needs.

What is individualised funding?

Individualised funding packages will give people with a disability more choice and control over their lives and futures, including how the system supports them.

Essentially, individualised funding means that funding is allocated to meet a person’s particular needs and aspirations regarding how they want to live their life, which is detailed in their

on the basis that he does some support in house - the fund pays the difference in the rent.

The fund at the moment is administered

by Centacare can you tell us how this works?

It means that we (and Centacare) can keep close tabs on where the money is actually being spent, and keep them on track financially.

Centrecare has a lot of support services here that you can use as well is that correct?

Yes with this fund we have the option of using Centacare services and we do. We have chosen to do that, Centacare were really really helpfull in advertising and choosing a specific worker to work with Sam and what we call his ‘main man’. He has a main

worker who is linked in with Centacare but his primary role is working with Sam. What recommendations would you say to others who were looking at getting some supported living funding or individual funding?

I would have to say that the young person really has to be ready to do it, you need to be prepared to put in quite a bit of effort to preparing that person and work closely with the service provider that holds the funds. I think that close relationship with Centacare has been really beneficial for us, they have been really helpful.

It was a new type of funding for them and we were probably pretty pushing parents, but we worked really well together. Centacare have bent over backwards to accommodate us.

Support Plan. The funding is portable and will remain with the individual and be administered by a service provider of their choice.

What is supported living?

Supported living is quite a simple idea. People with a disability should have real choices and control over decisions on: where to live, who to live with and the supports required to live the lifestyle they choose.

A person with a disability receives the support he/she needs to live in their own home. If the person needs to change the support they receive, this can also be changed.

Supported living involves: • emphasis on the person.

• community inclusion.

• new ways of looking at support, based on a mix of unpaid, informal relationships, complemented by paid, formal support that is flexible and tailored to the individual.

• a service provider supporting the person with a disability and their family, carers and support networks to enable them to have a high degree of influence on matters that affect his/her life.

• a separation of housing and support.

This means the support services fit the person, the person does not have to fit the services.

ADHC will review the outcomes of the Supported Living Fund so that improvements can be made into the future.

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focus_business.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce mmerce

B A C K

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B U S I N E S S

Hadyn Oriti.

Business Sense @ The Glasshouse Create something special by hosting your next business function at the Glasshouse.

conomic development is a key focus of the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce. But what is economic development, and what effect does it have on our community? There are numerous definitions of economic development but I think the World Bank, in 2013, hit upon the best definition that I’ve read. It said:

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“Local economic development is a process that builds up the economic capacity of the local area to improve its economic future and the quality of life for all. It is a process by which public, business, government and non-government sector partners work collectively to create better conditions for economic growth and employment generation. Economic development focuses on enhancing competitiveness, increasing sustainable growth and ensuring that growth is inclusive. Economic development encompasses a range of disciplines, including physical planning, economics and marketing; it also incorporates many local government and private sector functions including environmental planning, business development, infrastructure provision, real estate development and finance.”

It is this definition that has guided the Council’s economic development steering group, of which I am a member, in the development of Council’s strategy through to 2016. The Chamber of Commerce wants to play a constructive role as an organisation represented in the steering group. A key element of the success of the steering group will be the broader partnership that we believe is necessary between the organisations represented in the group and also those outside. It is critical, for example, the community see the benefits of economic development and participate in the process.

Further, it is important that all three levels of government work together constructively, if our objectives are to be achieved. As most people appreciate, business is the basis for economic 80 greater port macquarie focus.

development. Business is about risk taking and investing to earn a return. Business will feel more comfortable making investments and taking risks if the local environment is conducive to business.

All levels of government working together, focused on achieving agreed objectives, will facilitate business investment. However, if there is conflict and dissonance between the three tiers of government locally, and that becomes an impediment to infrastructure development and government decision making, then business will withhold making the investments - effectively a capital strike. We encourage all three tiers of government representing this region to ensure that they work together in a constructive way to achieve the objective of economic development.

We congratulate Dr Gillespie in his election and welcome his input in the process. We know Dr Gillespie has the best interests of the community and its economic development at heart and will seek to work closely with him in achieving beneficial outcomes. With the serious issues surrounding infrastructure, we seek to work closely with all our elected representatives to achieve the most appropriate outcomes.

Some of the issues I can identify include water resources, transport, and telecommunications in the district, the Mid North Coast Regional Transport Plan, roads generally within Port Macquarie, and in particular the Wrights Road roundabout and the consequences for the proposed Masters development off the Oxley Highway.

The economic development steering group will work with Council to develop an infrastructure gap analysis to help determine what key infrastructure needs to feature as a priority in Council planning. When that is done, with cooperation among the three levels of government and other parties, we are further advanced and better placed to improve this region’s economic future and improve the quality of life for all.

The Glasshouse has available a selection of packages at competitive prices, or we can customise to suit your needs.

With many years of experience, the Glasshouse will create the perfect atmosphere for your

Our dedicated technicians can assist with all your requirements from setting your venue, installing and operating your audio visual and sound equipment as well as theming and décor.

Further, customised floor plans can be created to suit your needs based on your choice of venue.

Call the Event Services Team on 6581 8888 to see how we can assist your business.

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OUR RECENT BUSINESS AWARDS WERE A CELEBRATION OF BUSINESS IN THE HASTINGS. THEY ARE JUST ONE REASON ALL BUSINESSES SHOULD GET INVOLVED IN THE CHAMBER.

The experienced and friendly team at the Glasshouse can assist you with all aspects of organising your business event, including catering, technical production and support, ticketing, room décor, guest registration and marketing.

Technical Services The centre is equipped with the latest audio visual technology and world-standard systems.

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business

Catering Glasshouse catering provides the perfect touch to ensure the success of any event, large or small and event organisers can source a selection of menus inspired by local produce, or have one customised to your needs.

fr Pac om ka $3 ges 5

MINDING YOUR

Why not consider a meeting in our function rooms, followed by a cocktail function on the Theatre stage? Or consider using the meeting rooms for staff training, seminars or exhibitions; with the Studio being ideal for presentations, film screenings and information nights.

meeting or function.

Glasshouse Business Sense Packages Choose the Glasshouse for your next meeting, conference or seminar in the heart of the CBD. Packages include room hire, catering and AV services.

Product Launches l Seminars l Meetings l Conferences l Information Sessions Corporate Entertaining l Business Breakfasts l Staff Training l Presentations l Film Screenings

For bookings: Venue Sales P: (02) 6581 8888 E: bec@glasshouse.org.au W: glasshouse.org.au

(02) 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie NSW 2444

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B A C K

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business

B A C K

T O

business

Get Organised with Willing & Able!

Willing & Able Foundation is a supported employment/ training service for adults with intellectual disabilities.

We offer Document Scanning services from post stamp size to very large sized documents. Strict quality processes are followed: Setting Up: • Customer specifications & technical requirements established • Paper estimator/pricing sheet supplied • 2 small customer files scanned free of charge & report provided Transport: • Files collected/securely transported

Job set up • Indexing - allows for easy future file retrieval • Output pathways based on customer specifications Scanning: • Preliminary documents scanned • Bar code or OCR set up completed • Documents quality checked/ image enhanced

Initial Checks & Balances: Archiving: • Files checked/cross referenced • Batch/s & file/s encrypted as – in/out per customer needs File Preparation : • Files transferred to customer’s • Remove staples/paper clips choice of storage device • Straighten folds/repair tears • Copy of digital documents • Identify/tag hand written kept by Willing & Able for seven (7) months as a buffer notes Document Security Management: Management of data security is paramount; therefore we have protocols in place to provide the customer with an increased level of comfort. Further information: Call Donna Celand on 6581 0939 or visit www.willingandable.org.au

A V HEAD

Listening and customer service are high priorities for Nigel and Angela Head of HeadAV, who specialise in providing technical, planning , design, installation, setup and operation of all your audiovisual and lighting requirements for every type of presentation in a business, corporate or school setting ...

hat does HeadAV do and what is the philosophy behind hil h b hi d your business?

HeadAV is a small technical business specialising in pro audiovisual presentations, installation and design.

In layman's terms, sound, lighting, projectors for conferences, school paging systems ... everything that helps address a room or audience more clearly, but is sometimes a bit complicated to understand how it all interconnects.

The most important part of our business is listening. The customer may not have the technical expertise to put together what they need, they do, however, know what they want.

And we ensure we listen carefully so we can deliver on their expectations.

HeadAV combine more than 30 years of experience with our customer service to be able to offer a wide knowledge base of the technical aspect of events and conferences and AV set ups.

Putting together a complete set up can be costly, and it can take time to deliver - but we believe if it is worth

doing, it's worth doing right . w Our greatest greatesst satisfaction comes from our customers who have their expectations exceeded. With a little extra value adding, this is possible.

Thanks, Nigel and Angela Head, H HeadAV. A testimonial: “The Wauchope Jockey Club for years have had problems with their PA System. I called Nigel Head at HeadAV, and asked could he have a look at it.

What areas of your business will you be focusing on in 2014?

• Installations Nigel visited us quickly and • Live audio with a great deal of multitrack expertise, located the recording system issues and • Conferences recommended a a Putting together n and small course of action ca complete set up band PA ke ta to improve and can be costly, and it t we setups, bu expand our Public er liv de to time powerful and orth doing, w is it Address System. if ve lie be right .” affordabl. it's worth doing We had great HeadAV had feedback from a very busy year our customers and last year, working supporters at the recent right up to Christmas Woop Woop Cup meeting.

2013, completing two I can recommend Nigel to fairly large installs, a couple of anyone who requires expert service large shows, and the Woop in the Audiovisual Field. I have since Woop Cup on Boxing Day. We suggested to Tuncurry Forster Jockey already have bookings to complete Club that they should have Nigel the recording of live bands, with review their system, and he is currently another large install to complete and looking into this wide area audiovisual more pending ... 2014 is looking great requirement.” so far.

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greater port macquarie focus 81

& TRAINING

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greater port macquarie focus.

Coaching Professionals Coaching is the key to unlocking personal and professional potential.The Coaching Professionals Group has welcomed two new qualified, experienced and dedicated coaches.

& TRAINING

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orkforce development specialist Kristal Kinsela and youth leadership coach Kerry Crawford have joined principal coach Sue Montgomery to offer a unique blend of knowledge and skills to help individuals and organisations achieve significant growth and development through coaching.

Sue Montgomery is a qualified professional coach and coach trainer, accredited with the International Coach Federation, with six years’ local and international coaching experience.

Sue, after 20 years in management you identified a universal gap in the ability of individuals to step successfully into leadership roles. How does coaching fill that gap?

During my time in the corporate world, and

more recently as a coach, I have seen many people promoted into management roles, only to find they lack the confidence and skills to be highly effective in all aspects of leadership.

Our programs and services promote positive behavioural change for individuals to improve their performance and maximise their potential.

Our clients report increased confidence, enhanced leadership and management techniques, increased team engagement, improved communication skills, self-reflection and professionalism. The ripple effect results in cultural shifts for entire organisations.

What does professional coaching involve?

The coaching model is a structured partnership focused on finding solutions to particular issues and achieving real results. During regular sessions our coaches provide personalised support to

challenge each individual to unearth and enhance their own skills, resources and creativity.

Our coaching services and qualifications are aligned to globally recognised industry standards developed by the International Coach Federation.

Kristal Kinsela is accredited through Coaching Australia’s Personalised Coach Training Program, with an extensive career in organisational and workforce development, and education and training.

Kristal, your path hasn’t been easy and you’ve had to work hard to get where you are. Is this what drives you to help others achieve their goals?

After growing up in housing commission in Sydney’s western suburbs, education was the key to breaking the cycle. I followed a career in the education and training sector because I wanted to help my own people, Aboriginal people, realise their own potential and achieve selfdetermination, economic and social success.

My experience delivering professional development initiatives for large organisations, lecturing at university and on company boards has enabled me to help others get where they want

to be. I work with the Indigenous community and more broadly with businesses in Sydney and Port Macquarie to help them grow and prosper.

Kerry Crawford is accredited with Coaching Australia and has worked for more than 20 years in a leadership role in community services and as a business owner.

Kerry, your focus is providing leadership programs and individual coaching for young people. What makes coaching a successful platform for young adults?

Teenage years can be a time of confusion and immense pressure, leaving many young people and their parents overwhelmed. Coaching can provide vital support at this crucial stage of development.

By giving young people control and ownership of their goals, coaching provides a supportive framework that empowers them to bring real and lasting change into their lives. Coaching helps develop confident individuals who have a strong sense of self and are better equipped to commit to long term goals such as education, while also looking beyond their own needs to those of the wider community.

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T r a i n i n g

& TRAINING

Gain a new skill in 2014 As we grow older, our interests change.

The good news is that, regardless of your age, motivation or past experience, anybody can attend a short course or workshop to develop a new skill or pursue an interest. You might want to do a course in order to learn a new skill for better employment opportunities, to give yourself that competitive edge at work, or to meet like-minded people.

Short courses are practical, convenient and can really ramp up that resumĂŠ.

For those whose university degrees are getting a little dated, who never went to uni and jumped straight into the workforce, or who have taken a ‘career break’, short courses are ideal for brushing up on skills.

Aside from the career advantages, short courses are also perfect for people who are

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home-carers, stay-at-home parents or retirees.

Short courses can also benefit those who are self-employed. Working every day on the same tasks, small business owners run the risk of their ideas getting tired, their minds becoming uninspired.

How often do you wish that you could do more with your life, change your current situation or learn a certain skill? Short courses are a great way of initiating a learning pathway; you might plan on doing a short course and find that you absolutely love it and would like to do an in-depth study of the subject; perhaps even change it into a career.

Learn, work and maintain your lifestyle at the same time. Call SkillsLink Training today to find out more on 6583 7288 or visit www.skillslinktraining.com.au

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T r a i n i n g

& TRAINING

University for all Now in its third year of operation, Charles Sturt University rsity is well rehensive on the way to achieving its vision of providing a comprehensive quarie. student experience at its newest campus in Port Macquarie.

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ust two years ago, Charles Sturt University (CSU) commenced operations in Port Macquarie with 42 students studying subjects from 4 degree programs. This month the university will be welcoming over 350 new and existing students to its campus to begin the 2014 academic year with an expanded course offering of 10 degree programs.

Commencing this year and for the first time in Port Macquarie, students will be able to study Psychology, and further courses from the Faculty of Arts have recently been approved by the university to be offered from 2015.

CSU’s vision for the future Port Macquarie campus is to provide a tertiary facility which is in tune with today’s teaching mechanisms, captures a whole student experience and will give back to its region, well into the future. These benefits include providing a genuine, sustainable and growing range of opportunities for students to develop professional skills, leading to a reduction of migration out of the region and an increase in economic activity and employment.

“We are proud of the growth we have been able to achieve in such a short time,” said Campus Director, Muyesser Durur, “and it is pleasing to see the campus move on from its start-up phase. There are still many exciting developments to occur over the next two years as we plan for the establishment of our

ad purpose-built campus off Major Innes Road on and we are looking forward to construction ter work for Stage I of the campus to start later this year.” Dr. Durur added.

Work on the Development Application to Port Macquarie Hastings Council for the new nts campus is well underway and local residents will have an opportunity to comment on the proposal when documents go on display to the public in the first half of this year.

To accommodate the growth in student numbers, before moving to the new Major Innes Road facilities in 2016, CSU has recently expanded its teaching and learning space with additional premises in Munster St fitted out to meet the needs of the university’s Medical Radiation Science students.

“We have been delighted with the level of support we have had from the local community over the past two years,” said Dr. Durur. This was made particularly evident when CSU launched their Public Lecture Series last year. The Series featured prominent CSU academics sharing their insights on a range of contemporary issues and were very well received with over 400 people attending. “We see the Lecture Series as a meaningful way for CSU to engage with the community, encourage debate and get Port Macquarie thinking about some of the ideas and issues facing society today. We are currently putting in place the Series for 2014 and the presentation topics are looking

superb,” Dr. Durur added.

The university’s re Port vision for the futu is ry facility Macquarie tertia ch is in tune hi w s pu for a cam hing and with today’s teac sms, captures ni learning mecha experience, a whole student to its region and will give back re.” well into the futu

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Another development for 2014 is the planned introduction of the Graduate Certificate in Commerce – an initiative being put in place by CSU in response to the needs of the local business community.

The Graduate Certificate is a great opportunity for people in professional practice and business wanting to upgrade their qualifications and keep in touch with contemporary management and business thinking. Comprising four subjects across the disciplines of Marketing, Human Resource Management, General Management and Finance, the course also

provides an excellent stepping stone for those wanting to upgrade to an MBA.

“The course we are offering in Port Macquarie is perfect for busy professionals as it offers a blend of online learning and face-to-face workshops”, says Dr. Durur. “Everyone will be studying the same subjects together which will encourage a collaborative working environment where people can share ideas and gain support from one another.”

To find out more about the courses on offer and the development of the new CSU campus visit www.csu.edu.au/about/ locations/port-macquarie.

Curious about where you’re heading?

At Charles Sturt University we believe curiosity and passion lead us all on the path to greater knowledge.

That’s why at CSU’s Port Macquarie Campus the course range continues to grow, with more exciting choices to come.

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Flexible study options and a huge range of distance education courses are also available.

FIND OUT MORE www.CSU.edu.au/port | 1300 135 435

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& TRAINING

Working to learn Learning to work Many businesses have recognised the link between vocational learning and the serious skill shortages faced in the Mid North Coast region. By training local youth, employers can make a significant investment in the future of their industry.

Mid Coast Connect has been assisting employers with the coordination of student work placements for over 15 years.

Work placement is a valuable way of demonstrating the needs of industry to young people and the education sector. It can also be a source of potential new employees and further develop community goodwill. Work placements provide students with industry experience so they can gain a nationally recognised vocational qualification as part of their HSC and make a successful transition from school into the world of work.

Mid Coast Connect is currently seeking new employers to support students from all our local high schools in 2014.

Mid Coast Connect brings together all parties involved in the organisation of the work placement. We are available for support throughout the process to ensure a positive and rewarding experience for both the business and the students What are the benefits for your business?

• The opportunity to reflect local industry needs and standards in education programs • Develop the training and supervision skills of your staff • Ensure sufficient skilled labour for the future of your industry • Have meaningful work completed whilst developing skills in students • Have an extra set of hands to help with entry-level tasks • Gain community goodwill for helping students improve their skills and increase their employment opportunities • Access to more customers and clients through the student, their friends and family • Recruit potential employees from the students you host, saving on expensive advertising and recruitment costs • Personal reward - it is satisfying to know that you gave someone a head start into their career • No financial outlay for business - your time and effort is all the investment required Interested and want to get involved with work placement? Call Kim, Ashley or Dianne in our Port Macquarie office on 6583 5910 or Ruth in our Kempsey office on 6562 5314. Our website also has more information - www.midcoastconnect.com.au

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Music makes the world go 'round!

Scientific studies have proven that early musical training for young children has the following benefits: • Develops teamwork skills • Builds confidence, self-esteem and self-expression • Develops creative thinking • Enhances intellect and academic achievements • Develops sustained effort to achieve excellence • Develops cooperation and communication • Develops multi-dimensional capacity Kindermusik International is the most trusted music program for the young child. They based the development of their various music classes on these scientific studies.

WHY MUSIC? “Teaching music is not my main purpose. I want to make good citizens. If children hear fine music from the day of their birth and learn to play it, they develop sensitivity, discipline and endurance. They get a beautiful heart.” (Shinichi Suzuki, creator of the Suzuki method of music education.)

When asked about his theory of relativity, physicist Albert Einstein answered: “It occurred to me by intuition, and music was the driving force behind that intuition. My discovery was the result of musical perception.”

'Kindermusik with Beate' - Motto: Help children become good citizens with a beautiful heart and inspire their imagination and intuition.

'Kindermusik with Beate' runs age-specific classes in Port Macquarie Contact: Beate 0434 840 474.

Hastings Family Day Care ‘DISCOVER THE DIFFERENCE’ Being a Hastings Family Day Care Educator

Are you interested in working from home?

Being a Has ngs Family Day Educator makes it possible for me to stay at home with my child while s ll being able to contribute to the family income. I am always well supported, from the fast and helpful child placement team to the Child Development Officers regular friendly visits.

My experience from parent to child Educator has been made smooth through the well tested business model of Has ngs Family Day Care.”

Registered HFDC Educator A Family Day Care business is more than excellence in childcare when you are registered with Has ngs Family Day Care.

It’s an opportunity to establish your own successful independent business and earn an income from home with the benefit of local specialist knowledge. Established in 1977, HFDC prides itself on its dedica on and commitment to each Educator.

APPLY WITH US TODAY Hastings Family Day Care

02 6583 4660 hastingsfdc@sjfs.stagnesparish.org.au www.stagnesparish.org.au/sjfs

To assist your success, HFDC is commi ed to providing support tailored to suit your individual requirements:

★ self paced induc on package ★ experienced staff to guide you in establishing your own early educa on and care business in your home ★ network of exis ng educators willing to liaise and mentor ★ assistance to obtain Cert 111 in Children’s Services ★ choose your own days and hours of opera on Has ngs Family Day Care con nues to build a secure and posi ve future for Educators and the children & families of the Port Macquarie Has ngs community.

Let HFDC open the door to a new opportunity and discover the difference.

ocal Family Day Care Service Exc L y l n O eeding N The

In

a r e as ! n e v e s l l a

ational Qualit y Standards

For more informa on: Contact the HFDC team on Ph: 6583 4660 Email: has ngsfdc@sjfs.stagnesparish.org.au Has ngs Family Day Care – 106 Horton Street, Port Macquarie www.stagnesparish.org.au/sjfs

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Lighthouse childcare At Lighthouse Childcare Centre, we love to celebrate.

Our Australia Day celebration focused on Australia’s beauty, diversity and culture. Learning experiences included singing, flag painting, animal bingo, thong making, cooking and more.

Your Heading Here!

The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) ensures that children receive quality education programs in an early childhood setting. This vision is for all children to experience engaging, play-based learning, building success for life.

The Early Years Learning frame work describes childhood as a time of belonging, being and becoming.

Belonging - is the basis for living a fulfilling life. Children feel they belong because of the relationships they have with their family, community, culture and place.

Being - is about living here and now. Childhood is a special time in life, and children need time to just ‘be’- time to play, try new things and have fun.

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Becoming - is the learning and development that young children experience. Children start to form their sense of identity from an early age, which shapes the type of adults they will become.

At Lighthouse Childcare, experiences provide children with opportunities to:

.

Develop a sense of belonging to groups and communities and understand the rights and responsibilities necessary for active community participation.

. Respond to the diversity of others with respect. . Learn with curiosity, cooperation, confidence, creativity, imagination and persistence.

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Express ideas and knowledge using a range of media.

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Build relationships and engage with the community.

Celebration days provide a fantastic platform to promote cultural awareness, knowledge and empathy in a fun, creative way.

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focusrealestate

Robyn Butler.

Ask Greg

Greg Trembath answers ers your real estate questions. tions.

Q

I am keen to buy a property, but I don’t know how to tell a boom market from a buyer’s market. Can you give me some tips? Amy H. Port Macquarie.

Congratulations to the businesses and locals alike for giving the visitors to the area such a wonderful holiday experience over Christmas/January. he number of people I spoke to both from interstate and overseas raved about the area, in particular the restaurants, walks, beaches, music on the Town Green and the 'Grasshouse' outside the Sundowner Caravan Park, and the friendliness of the locals.

were celebrating 100 years in business …

The fireworks were big hits and the children's activities at different venues.

New refurbished picture theatres, children friendly venues and the fantastic weather added to the magic of the area. To see families walking, riding, children on little scooters at dusk along our foreshore while Jazz was playing, with the river in the background, was truly surreal. Well done to all concerned and to Janette Hyde and the Port Macquarie Tourist Association for your contribution. Not forgetting the workers at all the Information Centres … well done!

was saying the overseas interest went

SNIPPETS 1. Locals and visitors alike are bemused by the 70 km sign just before you get to the roundabout at Lake Road … ?

my friends and relatives to know that I have

T

The story made you proud to be an Aussie!

Some of the employees had been there for over 30 and 40 years and noticed the changes in the industry. The wool is ALL Australian and mostly from the Riverina, and the colours they now produce are spectacular. The CEO, Brenda McGahan, beyond expectations … there is work in progress using superfine merino wool to make singlets etc. for people allergic to wool ... how good is that? To look at the different aspects of this company and what you can order online: www.auspinners. com.au or see the program on the Landline website.

'boom' times.

A so-called 'buyers market' is usually evidenced by an abundance of properties being for sale.

An over-supply of properties means more sellers need to try to win the hearts and wallets of potential buyers, which can result in keener negotiations, particularly if the property has been for sale for some time.

A. Every buyer, whether you are a first home buyer, serious investor or seasoned property owner, should take the time to get in touch with the local property market. This will ensure decisions are based on your knowledge of the prevailing conditions, rather than a stab Whether you in the dark. times of

buy in

Whether you buy in times of boom or bust, there is always an opportunity to buy well and sell well. To do so you need to know your market, so when you are buying you will know the right home for you at the right price when you discover it!

Start your research by boom or bust, looking at the volume of there is always an properties for sale in the area opportunity to and the asking price. Then buy well and sell find out how long properties well ... are staying on the market and what they are selling for. There are Answers are general comment, a number of websites that provide the and readers should always seek their kind of sales data you need. Here are two for own independent professional advice. you - www.rpdata.com and www.apm.com.au.

Send your real estate questions to You know the market is 'hot' when the greg@gregtrembath.com.au length of time properties are on the market Greg Trembath is Principal/Licensee at dramatically shortens and you see plenty of Greg Trembath Real Estate. Licensed Real quick sales. When property sells quickly at higher prices, then this is what the industry calls Estate Agent – Licensed Auctioneer.

4. I saw this in the Telegraph before Xmas in the Death Notices and thought what a wonderful sense of humour this fellow had … the notice read as follows: “I would like finally fallen off the twig, due to a serious attack of death which was utterly and

2. MISS PIPPI HOUSEHOLD ORGANISER …

This is a new business in town that I should be contacting. If you are downsizing, moving, or wish to declutter your home and don’t know where to start, this is the girl to ring. Packages start at $60, which include initial assessment, 2 hours working with you, sorting and packing, with a information package to help you where and how to dispose of your preloved items.

Good luck Phillipa ... from what I have heard, you will be run off your feet because of your professionalism and genuine love of people. Phone 6583 9780, Mobile 0401 091 512 or misspippi2013@hotmail.com

absolutely fatal and untreatable even with

3. Late last year Landline did a program on The Mill Shop in Wangaratta, because they

INSTINCT THAN A MAN’S REASON …

a bottle of Chivas (although God knows I tried). So I will catch you on the flip side amigos, over and out" … he was 90!

5. Red Garbage bins emptied once a fortnight … you'll have to have a pretty good campaign and argument to convince me and many other people that this is going to work, particularly in summer.

You'll always have people that won’t recyle correctly or at all, but the majority of us do the right thing all the time … it is fraught with trouble with a red capital T. I WOULD RATHER TRUST A WOMAN’S Keep smiling. Robbie x greater port macquarie focus 91

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

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Better Quality, Better Service, Better Homes�

BE T T ER H O MES &

D e v e l o p m e n t s

Is it time you had a new home in Port Macquarie? Chances are you have some great ideas, but you need an experienced builder who can help bring your dream to reality.

C

hrissy Jones takes a closer look at one such local building company, Better Homes and Developments. > A Visit to the New Display Home – 14 Echidna Street, Port Macquarie.

Found in the Brierley Hill Estate, the home is a fantastic design suited to a young, active family that love to entertain family and friends. A contemporary facade is pleasing to the eye from street level, having a mix of face brick from PGH, 'Stria' cladding from James Hardie

and a Colorbond roof from Bluescope Steel.

Fully landscaped gardens surround the wide cova concrete drive and pathway, which then lead to the front entry of the home. Currently the garage provides a home for the display office, but will be fitted with an automatic panel lift door from Mid Coast Doors once the home has served its purpose.

Entry to the home is via an impressive 1200 wide x 2.4 high feature front door; glass panels are placed either side and

a highlight window above, framing the entrance and allowing natural light into the impressive foyer that features a vaulted 10 foot ceiling, adding to the spaciousness. Flooring underfoot is 600 x 600 grey tiling from Tiles with Style, which continues throughout the entire living area of the home. The tiles provide a striking contrast to the clean, crisp white of the walls, that have been professionally painted to the highest standard.

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Left of entry is the luxurious and very private master bedroom, complete with en-suite and walk-in-robe. Floor to ceiling white tiles, a concealed shower cubicle, wall hung vanity with mirror, stainless steel fittings and towel rails, plus an enclosed WC all add to the comfort and convenience of the en-suite. The walk-in-robe is a great layout, having a built-in dressing table with mirror, drawers and shelving one side and the other is fitted with both his and hers hanging and shelving space.

The master bedroom has a private access through glass sliding doors, that are fitted with white slim line venetian blinds from Bonny Blinds, giving easy access to the side terrace and gardens.

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Right of entry is a small hallway that leads to the home theatre or media room.

A stunning charcoal recessed ceiling framed in white, soft carpeting from Choices Port Macquarie and ducted air conditioning from Coolcene all combine to provide an entertainment space for hours of enjoyment and movie viewing.

A home office or study is conveniently placed alongside the kitchen and has purpose built benches and shelving for all computer and office paraphernalia. The striking wallpaper used on the back wall of the home office is an added feature for clients to consider, which I feel defines the room.

The adjacent open plan kitchen, dining

A N OTH ER TH E IN N OVATI O N IS EX IN M LA , SP LA SH-B ACK D CE A PL M ETA LI N E. EG BE H IN D TH E SM P TH AT TO K O CO IC M A CE R W H IT E A IS H O U SE D IN CH-T O P. N BE E N ES SA ST O ACK IS A TH E SP LA SH-B NAT IV E TO G R EAT A LT ER S. �

LE G LA SS O R TI

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and lounge area is the heart of the home. Opening out through triple stacker glass sliding doors on two sides to the rear alfresco, a huge indoor/outdoor entertainment area is incorporated. Combining the side terrace and timber pergola, all zones seamlessly bring the outdoors in to create the perfect lifestyle space.

The kitchen has been designed by David Paine of Port Kitchen World and

is impressive. A large island bench introduces a new product as its bench-top Laminex Basalt from the Impression series in a spark finish. This innovative, easy to maintain surface has also been utilised as a feature panelling around the bulkhead ceiling line over the back wall of the kitchen bench. Fitted with a stainless steel double sink and flick-mixer, an under bench dishwasher and storage cabinets, the island also doubles as a

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breakfast bar.

Another innovation is the splash-back, Laminex metaline. Placed behind the Smeg ceramic cooktop that is housed in a white Essa stone bench-top, the splash-back is a great alternative to glass or tiles. Being an aluminium base, the splash-back is flame retardant. An electric under bench Smeg oven and concealed range-hood are also incorporated. The soft close doors and drawers with flush pull handles fitted in all cabinetry add to the stylish finish.

Complementing the kitchen work area is the generously sized walk-in pantry, microwave and refrigerator nooks and further overhead storage.

The remaining rooms of the home comprise 3 bedrooms, activity room,

bathroom, separate WC and laundry. All are connected by a hallway that has a 3.5 m triple opaque glass sliding door linen press. The bedrooms are mirror image and all are a good size, fitted with glass fronted, double door built-in robes, soft carpeting, down-lighting and ducted air conditioning; they are very comfortable.

Central to the bedrooms is the tiled activity room that provides a private chillout space for the younger members of the family. The room opens onto the rear alfresco through glass sliding doors and is light and airy.

Being conveniently placed alongside the main bathroom, WC and laundry, the activity room is a wonderful addition to the design.

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Servicing the bedrooms, the main bathroom is a great layout, taking in both a nice deep bath and a glass walled swing door shower cubicle. A textured wall tile to the ceiling adds to the stylish wall hung vanity that has drawers either side and a large mirror above. Stainless steel towel rails, a square set shower rose and an IXL Tastics heat lamp that combines a light and exhaust fan, are all included.

A walk through design incorporating another linen press on one wall and cabinetry on the other, the laundry is well thought out and has loads of storage and bench space. Laminex Basalt, as used in the kitchen, is the surface on the laundry bench-top, and large white tiles take on

D e v e l o p m e n t s

the role of the splash-back above the deep stainless steel laundry tub. Under bench, over head and a floor to ceiling utilities closet make up the remaining storage cupboards. Having easy access to the rear yard via a timber screened landing and timber step treads, the laundry is very functional and practical.

Extensive landscaping has been carried out and can be readily seen from many vantage points, including the living, dining, most bedrooms and the activity room, adding to the appeal of the floor plan.

Overall, the Echidna Street display home is a fantastic design, ideal as it is or easily tweaked to suit individual tastes.

Find the floor you’ve been searching for

CARPET

TIMBER & BAMBOO

VINYL & LAMINATE

RUGS

Choices Flooring Port Macquarie 6584 7180 • 99 Hastings River Drive choicesflooring.com.au

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RE BACK ED BY M O S R EA Y 30 TH A N AS O F EX PE R IE N CE IN S ER D IL BU E HOM R IE , W E PO RT M ACQ UA ED H IS BL H AV E ESTA TI O N TA U EP R A SO LI D H L OME A M O N G LO CA OW N ER S. ”

“ About the Builder – Better Homes & Developments Tell us about your building company; how long have you been operating?

Our company, Better Homes and Developments, is locally owned and operated and has been established in the Port Macquarie Hastings area since 1981. We provide clients with a complete building service, from design consultation and planning through to construction and project management, handover and after construction care. Our hands on management approach ensures we deliver clients with the highest level of personalised service.

Backed by more than 30 years of experience as home builders in Port Macquarie, we have established a solid reputation among local home owners. We take pride in working with the region’s top tradesmen, suppliers, and land developers.

As a family owned business, we value our customers’ need for comfort in a property they can call home. This is why we always

put quality of work at the top of our priorities. We also make sure each project is delivered on time and on budget.

What types of building do you specialise in?

For over 30 years around Port Macquarie, Better Homes has enhanced the lives for our clients with on time and on budget delivery of new homes, villas and townhouses. The comfort of a final fixed price combined with the highest quality are client expectations that we strive to meet every time. Our reputation for quality is built on vast local knowledge and strong relationships with the best tradesmen and the latest materials, ensuring beautifully designed, superbly built new homes.

Our team can help bring your dream home to reality. Our pledge is that we take the time to listen, consult and innovate when designing and building a new family

home. Consistent communication and old fashioned attention to detail will ensure stylish yet practical new house designs reflecting your lifestyle choices. Then using the very latest building products and only the best tradesmen, we will create a new home of award quality.

Your not a franchise; what are the advantages to clients?

The benefit of not being a franchise company allows us to provide our clients with total flexibility when it comes to the design and inclusion process. Whether we are redesigning one of our many plans or working to develop a design from scratch, our aim is always to meet the individual needs of our clients.

We understand the importance of having comfort that the final price is fixed, the quality is second to none, and your new home is delivered on time and on budget.

Another advantage of being an independent family owned company is that we’re able to meet your individual design and inclusion needs with total flexibility.

Our goal is to make the entire new house building process from design and quoting stage through to construction and handover, stress free and enjoyable. Our team is specially trained to meet your meticulous standards.

Our relationship with all clients will continue well beyond handover of their new home.

How do we go about commissioning you to build for us?

We’re here to help. You can contact Phil Satchell in our sales office directly by phoning 0414 350 873 or Neville Jones on 0411 023 590. Both will be more than happy to meet with you to go over your plans and ideas or show you some of our designs and available home and land packages.

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W H AT M A K ES M Y JO B EA SY TH E IS TH AT I LOV E A M I PRO D U CT TH AT I’M D N SE LL IN G, A F OU R V ERY PRO U D O H O M ES . ”

“ PHIL SATCHELL – SALES CONSULTANT Phil Satchell loves his job: Sales Consultant with Better Homes and Developments for the past 10 years. Phil is your first point of contact if you are looking at building your new home with the company.

Tell us a bit about yourself ...

I have lived in Port Macquarie for 33 years, having moved from Sydney with my wife, Sue. We operated a number of businesses in Port Macquarie, firstly a motel for 5 years, followed by Yum Yum’s Coffee Shop for about 3½ years. After selling the coffee shop, we purchased Port Macquarie Produce and Garden Supplies, which we retained for 18 years. Soon after selling this business, I was offered a position with Better Homes & Developments, which I accepted. I love working with people, which

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I suppose is the reason I have been in sales roles all my working life.

How long have you been with Better Homes, and how has the building industry changed in that time?

Eleven years. The industry has seen many changes over the last decade, which include areas like Council policies and controls, client choice and expectations and the availability of subdivided land. We have been through some challenging times in the last 11 years, where the availability of land has been limited, price spikes and falls and of course, some extended periods of wet weather. All these factors add to the challenge of my role. As far as Better Homes is concerned, I think we have concentrated on our customer service, with systems being in place that are constantly reviewed,

that have improved our public relations and also the quality of our build and the delivery and after construction care to our clients.

What is your role?

Simply, I am a prospective clients first port of call with regards to a new home enquiry. I suppose you can say my role is sales; however, there is so much more to the process. As I said earlier, I love working with people and take great pleasure in guiding clients through the entire process, step by step. What makes my job easy is that I love and have full confidence in the product I am creating and selling. I am very proud of our homes. I firmly believe that the product that we sell is top quality and good value, and hence I feel very confident

in talking to people about the product that we propose to sell them.

I manage our display home as well as working from our administration office in Murray St, Port Macquarie.

Over my time with Better Homes I have gained invaluable experience in the building industry, but my speciality is home and land packages. I can formulate and present a full package to buyers, with the emphasis being that it is fully completed, 100%, with no nasty surprises. Clients deserve to know everything upfront and feel comfortable when moving forward throughout construction.

My focus is to build a solid working relationship with all our clients, which ensures

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mutual trust and hopefully a friendship from very early in the process. I like to be honest with them so they are honest with me; this helps me to help them get just what they both want and need in their new home.

What’s it like to work for Better Homes?

My length of time with Better Homes tells how I feel. On a personal note, they are a great company to work for, flexible, easy to get on with and very family oriented. Their main aim is to have a satisfied customer and a happy team. We do our darnedest to make that happen, without exception. That’s what I like and exactly how I have operated all my business ventures over the years; it is so important. Better Homes feel the same: do your best to help the client.

What does Better Homes offer clients?

Our company offers design, construct and management of all types of projects, from individual dwellings through to villas, medium density and retirement developments. Our specialty, which is predominantly my area of expertise, is home and land packaging.

We are very proud to say on our logos that everything is included. This is so important to ensure clients have

a crystal clear understanding of what they will be delivered. It’s peace of mind.

We are not the type of building company that will promote a bare bones price to snag a client, as this will not provide a client with a finished home.

We will provide clients a fully 100% finished price, also covering externals such as driveway, paths, turfing, landscaping, the lot. Then, if clients want to come back on that and as an example indicate they would like to complete their own landscaping and turf, we are certainly totally flexible in this regard.

Better Homes isn’t a franchise building company. We are not bound and locked into any particular plans; we’re not connected with any multi-national building company in any way. Better Homes is a local family owned company, thus giving us 100% flexibility for home buyers. Our plans are an idea, a starting point, something that people can work from, they aren’t set in concrete. We are happy and prefer to work with buyers to design their new home to meet their individual lifestyle needs.

What if people have their own plan or idea for their new home?

That’s fine. I actually had a lady call recently and ask that exact question. She had a sketch and an idea of

what she wanted to build, which we are happy to work with and further develop. We would build 50/50, 50% our plan or a variation of our plan and the other 50% designed specifically for the client.

Tell us about the new display home?

It’s located at 14 Echidna Street, in the Brierley Hill Estate, Port Macquarie and is our 5th display in this area over the last 8 years. We have had a fantastic response to this display home since opening, which also includes on display a new range of home designs and contemporary façade options. It ticks all the boxes. We’ve designed a beautiful 4 bedroom family home on display with some great design and inclusion ideas. It has an activity room for the kids, a great cinema/media room with some lovely features incorporated, and the study nook adjacent to the kitchen, which I think is a great placement for a family home. The lovely alfresco area out the back is fantastic and has a great addition of an open timber pergola. The feedback has been fantastic; people really love this home.

Thanks Phil.

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BE TT ER H O M ES H AV E TH E BU IL D CO N TR ACT TO ES TH E N EW H O M N OW S AY PL IS D H W IT TI O N EC SP O PE N FO R IN E R O M Y N AND MA N D ER H O M ES N OW U ” N. CO N ST RU CT IO

“ Estates, Home and Land Packages Available

Have you found your happy place?

Everyone has their own 'happy place'... a favourite beach at sunset, or early morning on the 9th green, sunday morning sleep ins with the smell of fresh coffee in the air… it's the place you escape to, come home to, find sanctuary in… the place where you're happiest! We believe it’s time to create your own happy place. The place you’ve always dreamt of, surrounded by the people you love most, in the perfect kitchen you've longed for, sharing food in your alfresco dining area with friends. A place with sweeping rural vistas, not far away from a fairway, a skipping stones' throw from the beach and close enough to all the very best that Port Macquarie has on offer.

Crestwood Heights is just the place to build your happy place!

Ideally located just minutes from the CBD, Lighthouse Beach, schools, shops, doctors and

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of course the golf courses… you'll find Crestwood Heights is the last beachside estate offering high, easy to build on land with sweeping views of oceans and mountains and bush reserves.

"Stage 5 of Crestwood Heights is selling fast! With lots from just $230,000 this represents great value for quality land in a prestige location." said selling agent Tony Dekker from PRD Nationwide.

"Now's the perfect time to buy and build with interest rates low. Choose your new homesite & lock it in now or talk to us about some of the new house/land packages available from as low as $462,500, we can get you in to your new home sooner than you think!" Tony said.

You've worked hard… isn't it time you found your happy place? You deserve it!

Call Tony Dekker at PRD Nationwide on 6583 8800 and get happy today!

Brierley Hill Located less than 7 km from Port Macquarie’s CBD and beautiful beaches, Brierley Hill has become one of Port Macquarie’s most popular estates and has been earmarked by Council as a designated future growth area. With its convenient location to the Lake Innes shopping village and local schools along with the quality homes, Brierley Hill is the perfect family friendly location for a new home.

Although a range of home and land packages are available, we welcome the opportunity to design your new home and offer inclusions to meet your individual lifestyle needs. Contact Phil Satchell Ph: 0414 350 873.

Ocean Club Resort Ocean Club Resort is a new over 50s five star lifestyle resort that is the first of its type in the region. It offers residents brand new homes, along with protection of a gated and secure community, world class resort facilities including a 25 m heated swimming pool, club standard bowling green, tennis court, gym, clubhouse and library, beautifully landscaped streetscapes, and best of all, it's fully maintained with dedicated, on-site staff.

There's even space to store your boat or caravan.

For those who are 'retired from work but not from life' and are now free from children, Ocean Club Resort opens huge opportunities to live life to the full with like minded people.

Better Homes have the contract to build the new homes, with displays now open for inspection and many more homes now under

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construction. It's well worth talking with Karen or Darren at Ocean Club Resort.

Visit: www.oceanclubresort.com.au or call 1800 462 326

POET'S RIDGE If you’ve been looking to build your new family home in a quiet, but convenient location, you must consider Poet’s Ridge in the beautiful coastal village of Kendall. Being just 10 minutes from all the services and pristine waterways of Laurieton, Poets Ridge feels like it’s a world away when it comes to charm and character.

The estate features elevated home sites averaging 650 m2, with many taking full advantage of the superb rural panorama and coastal breezes.

At Better Homes we welcome the opportunity to tailor a Poets Ridge homeland package to suit your individual design and inclusion needs.

Poets Ridge, offering contemporary living in the heritage village of Kendall.

What is the land package you offer?

If you have already purchased land or are in the process of searching for a suitable block, we can help.

The first step in making your new home a reality is meeting to discuss your block, along with design and inclusion requirements. This meeting is very much a fact finding mission, to ensure all your needs are considered from the very beginning.

Documentation relating to your land, such as the land contract along with any 'wish lists' you have prepared, will certainly assist with the design and quoting process. We offer a full custom design service and although we prefer to build your home so its 100% complete both inside and out, we acknowledge the need to be totally flexible with the design process, as inclusions and exclusions will be tailored to your needs.

In terms of searching for a block, we can assist in this regard based on our knowledge of land

availability and contacts within the industry. To ease the pressure, we will happily search and negotiate on land on your behalf if you wish.

Our team have mastered this process over the years to ensure you are delivered a home that meets all your needs and exceeds your expectations.

When we provide you with a commitment that everything’s included, we mean it!

INCLUSIONS You have a range of inclusions; tell us about those ...

At Better Homes, we have developed a tiered structure for our inclusions. These step up from

Silver to Gold to Platinum; Silver being the entry level at which we price our designs, and Platinum being the highest level of inclusions.

The most important thing to remember with Better Homes is that we will tailor our package to suit your requirements. As we always remind our clients, it's what's 'not included' in a quotation that clients should be most aware of.

Seek answers from your builder; you should ask the builder's previous clients for their recommendation.

the plug!

Contact Phil Satchell Ph: 0414 350 873

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focusabode.

BE T T E R H O M E S &

D e v e l o p m e n t s

6 new colours inspired by nature With 6 new colours and two beautiful palettes inspired by the colours of Australia, COLORBOND® steel makes it easier than ever to create your ideal colour scheme, regardless of the style of your home or where you live.

Looks better for longer.

Now with two palettes and 22 designer colours, COLORBOND® steel features an advanced paint technology providing a durable, baked on finish that resists peeling, chipping and cracking. So whether you’re using COLORBOND® steel for your roofing, walling, fencing, guttering or garage doors, you can be sure it will look better for longer.

One of the world’s most advanced building materials.

COLORBOND® steel now features advanced Activate™ technology, enhancing the protective coating of its steel substrate. You can be sure that COLORBOND® steel is one of the toughest, most advanced building materials available anywhere in the world.

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Australia has one of the harshest climates on earth. So we test COLORBOND® steel in exposure sites across the country as well as in accelerated tests in the laboratory. That’s why you can be sure COLORBOND® steel remains durable in Australian conditions.

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COLORBOND® steel with Activate™ technology uses fewer metal resources and has an increased lifespan, compared to original COLORBOND® steel. The result is a smaller environmental footprint1.

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Standard COLORBOND® steel colours feature Thermatech® technology2 to help reduce the energy load of your home and your use of air-conditioning, providing you with more comfort using less energy3. Thermatech® technology helps reflect heat from your roofs surface, helping you keep cool in summer.

Beautiful roofing, wherever you live.

Whether you live in our suburbs, in rural Australia or closer to the coast, COLORBOND® steel is an ideal building material. Find out more about COLORBOND® Ultra steel if you’re planning to build in coastal environments.

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The increased performance of Activate™ technology allows BlueScope to offer greater warranty periods for COLORBOND® steel4. That’s peace of mind, knowing your biggest investment is protected for longer, by a roof made from COLORBOND® steel.

1. COLORBOND® steel AM100 outperforms COLORBOND® steel AZ150 consistently across 18 environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) impact categories in residential, commercial and industrial roofing applications. These improvements are the result of innovation in the metal coating formulation that deliver an increased lifespan while using fewer metal resources. The results of the LCA study are not applicable to COLORBOND® Ultra steel and COLORBOND® Stainless steel.

2. Thermatech® technology is not available in the colour Night Sky®.

3. Results will depend on level of insulation, building shape and function 4. Warranty subject to application and eligibility criteria. There are various factors that will determine whether a building is eligible for a warranty and the duration of any applicable warranty. Such factors include, but are not limited to, product selection, environmental influences, manufacturing specifications and product specific requirements. For full terms and conditions and to determine the eligibility of your building for the warranty visit bluescopesteel.com.au/warranties or call BlueScope on 1800 702 764.

SIX NEW COLOURS TO CREATE YOUR HOME WHEN YOUR ROOF COMPRISES AROUND 30% OF THE PROFILE OF YOUR HOME, IT’S IMPORTANT TO START DESIGNING YOUR EXTERIOR COLOUR SCHEME FROM THE TOP DOWN. With six new colours and two beautiful palettes, COLORBOND® steel provides more inspiration for you to create your home’s ideal colour scheme.

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TO ORDER OUR NEW COLOUR CHART AND FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR HOME VISIT COLORBOND.COM/CREATE OR CALL 1800 732 704 COLORBOND®, BlueScope and ® colour names are registered trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. ™ colour names are trade marks of BlueScope Steel Limited. © 2014 BlueScope Steel Limited ABN 16 000 011 058. All rights reserved.

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estellegough.

Getting Real with David Plews!

UPDATE

adventure with birds It is always a great thrill to me to caravan to new or seldom visited places, where I am able to enjoy the contrast in landscapes. This variety in habitat provides a variety in wildlife, especially my favourite: birds!

M

y most recent trip started on 1 August 2013 and lasted for 115 camps. I had no planned itinerary, other than a handful of targeted 'birdwatching hot spot' locations – Bowra Station (Cunnamulla), Birdsville, Bedourie & Boulia, Lawn Hill National Park, Karumba, Kingfisher Park Lodge at Julatten, Cooktown, Cape York especially Lakefield NP and Iron Range, and Cairns Esplanade. This clockwise circle, mostly in Queensland, was 14,373 km and I recorded 435 bird species.

Daily camp sites were chosen during the late afternoon, with bird habitat as the key factor. I prefer to camp alone out of sight of the road. There were many thousands of caravanners and campers on the road, even along the outback route I drove.

not good, as I experienced terrible drought conditions throughout southern, western and northern Queensland. It really was horrible to observe the almost complete lack of surface water and the dead and dying vegetation in western areas. The gibber and sand plains were bare. I felt sad for the native wildlife.

It was so dry, that some nights I only had powdered water to drink! De-stocking was in progress: one large cattle run west from Boulia having gone from 15,000 head of cattle to 400 in the past 15 months.

I saw at least 50 feral cats, which have taken to living rs on the plentiful food fe I scored 22 Li r ve ne s supply provided by the ie (bird spec u yo n massive road trains: Ca seen before). g tin ci ex w road-killed kangaroos, imagine ho ter af r fe Li a e cattle, sheep, horses, se it is to ars? ... ye + 30 r fo g feral pigs and kites. in bird

“

Well, the new real estate year has The marketplace is highly competitive for certainly commenced with a bang. buyers and it is highly recommended that 2013 finished with plenty of momentum you have your finances in place to be in a and this has carried into the New Year, with position to place offers. Otherwise, you run even bigger excitement on the horizon for the risk of losing the property to another 2014. buyer while waiting for finances to be As I write this column, we are half approved. way through January and the Once offer and acceptance is sales are certainly rolling gained, any buyer requiring a in. Currently the Port pest/building report should We did Macquarie First National order this immediately. This ur appreciate yo office has sold seven will send a positive signal ity gr te in honesty and hasing rc properties and 15 have to the sellers and build pu e th g durin d gone to contract. These trust for the upcoming process. Kate an numbers are rather exchange. Any delays here Brett Currie.” incredible given we are will put the buyer at risk of only weeks into 2014 losing the property to another and exchanging properties purchaser. has been a little difficult due to Remember that buyers can solicitors/conveyancers being on leave. always exchange with a cooling off period I recently sold a property in the Nobbys with a 0.25 per cent non-refundable deposit.

Beach area that was listed for $419,000 This prevents another buyer from purchasing which had 17 groups through the open the property. house inspection. From this open house we It’s also important to note that real estate had four offers – three above the asking agents are obliged to follow their client’s price. Welcome to the new real estate instructions at all times, as long as they are marketplace in Port Macquarie. not illegal.

This article has been prepared in good faith with due care by David Plews.

With this being the case, buyers need to No representation or warranty is made as to the accuracy of information be on the front foot and not be complacent contained in this article and readers should make and rely on their own enquiries as to the correctness of such information. with properties.

“

m roll) … including … (dru , the oo at ck Co the Palm ctor!” fa OW W e ultimat

The Birdsville Pub is still as tough and wild as it was in the early 1900s. Before you enter, they still search you to see if you’re carrying a gun. If you’re not, they give you one! I left one week prior to the annual Races when the population swells from 300 to 7,000. The only caravan park was booked out, and 500 caravans were parked along the Diamantina River (a few muddy puddles) or around the town fringe. Many of these free campers use the ‘bush’ as a toilet, and toilet paper blowing around the dusty plains is common. This has become THE major camping issue all over Australia.

Despite the harsh conditions, I scored 22 Lifers (bird species never seen before). Can you imagine how exciting it is to see a Lifer after birding for 30+ years? First was the Flock Bronzewing, one or two birds initially then a flock of around 800 near Bedourie.

Spectacular! The road to Cape York (including Lakefield NP) provided numerous avian highlights: Golden-shouldered Parrot (subtle beauty), Trumpet Manucode (weird call), Magnificent Riflebird (perfect name) – whilst Iron Range itself featured icons such as Eclectus Parrot (sigh), Frilled Monarch (crazy), Yellow-billed Kingfisher (fashion guru), Fawnbreasted Bowerbird (secretive), and … (drum roll) … the Palm Cockatoo, the ultimate WOW factor!

Unfortunately, my timing for this trip was

Contributed by Tony Bischoff.

LOCAL | QUALIFIED | PROVEN mobile 0448 836 000 email david@portmacquariefn.com.au 69 Horton St, Port Macquarie

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focusinterview.

By Jane Hillsdon Principal Consultant of Dragonfly Marketing

Andrew Thompson

Strata Professionals

Andrew Thompson

H

appy New Year, Andrew ndrew – it’s back to work for another year! Can you tell us what might be in store for Strata Professionals in 2014?

Hi Jane, and happy New Year to you also.

2014 will undoubtedly be a very busy year for our team at Strata Professionals. As many of your readers may already know, new and improved strata legislation is due for implementation later this year. It became clear to many involved in the industry that an extensive and thorough review of the entire legal framework was needed, as more and more people seek to live or work in a strata or community scheme. With the exact detail of the reforms yet to be finalised, we expect some major changes all aimed at promoting and improving owner participation, making dispute resolution easier, reducing red tape and modernising methods of communication. We also expect some emphasis given to promoting and enabling sustainable living practices within strata and community schemes.

Tell us about your background and how you came to be in Port Macquarie?

Shortly after completing an Economics Degree at the University of Sydney, I relocated to London and worked as a Trust Fund Accountant for BNP Paribas (major sponsor of the French Open) for a number of years.

This proved to be a very enjoyable and rewarding experience and provided me with the confidence and courage to head up my very own business. An opportunity arose for my young family to return to Australia, which enabled me to embark on the next stage of my professional life ... and that was 11 years ago now, and it still seems like it was only yesterday.

What inspired you to buy and manage a local business?

I suppose in a lot of ways it was my

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upbringing. upbringing Having learnt from a young age that hard work and dedication can often bring its own rewards, I was very much motivated to one day operate my own business and in some small way enrich the lives of those we meet and work with in our daily lives.

Building solid relationships with your clients is an imperative pursuit for any business. How do you ensure that this activity is prioritised and implemented across your business activities?

Strata Professionals is no different to any other business in this respect. Building and maintaining solid relationships with owners, suppliers and contractors is without a doubt one of the most important aspects of our business. Most of our team members have been with the organisation for many years, and over this time each one of them has individually built and developed relationships crucial to ensuring the smooth operation and management of each strata scheme in their portfolio. We find the best way to do this is through ensuring there are open lines of communication where owners, in particular, can call in or phone us whenever the need arises.

What is the most rewarding part about your role with Strata Professionals?

One of the most rewarding aspects of our role as strata managers is to successfully manage major building projects from start to finish. It is particularly pleasing to see an owner’s reaction at the completion of a project, seeing their satisfaction with the outcome and knowing that we were instrumental in managing and coordinating the work on their behalf.

Similarly, quite often, particular scenarios arise within a building where straightforward or immediate solutions may not necessarily be obvious or even possible. At times, situations arise that require careful analysis and an in-depth review of a particular issue that may

be having an adverse affect on a building.

Fortunately, one of our great strengths at Strata Professionals is the ability of our team to carefully assess such a situation and identify sensible and practical solutions to what are often complex issues. By drawing on our vast experience and detailed knowledge of the legislation, we can always find rational solutions to the most complex of problems. Achieving such outcomes is a very rewarding part of our job.

How do you manage to keep your staff motivated and engaged with the growth of Strata Professionals?

By ensuring staff are not continuously overloaded with work; therefore, maintaining sufficient staffing levels is imperative.

Encouraging staff to have an active and enjoyable life outside of the workplace is an important component to ensuring productivity and motivation during the working week.

What do you think is the single most important factor in running a successful regional business?

Having worked in both capital and regional centres, what quickly became apparent was the different ways that businesses interacted mainly with their clients. In regional centres, operating a successful business requires lots of personal interaction, which is not always the case in larger capital cities. In a nutshell, be prepared to listen, understand the issue from all sides, and proactively seek out a solution that all parties can be satisfied with. Quite often this will require compromise from those involved.

This may sound relatively simple, but when you bring a large group of people together from all walks of life and put them under the one roof and expect them to get along and agree on all things strata, this is quite a monumental challenge.

What advice do you have to offer to local business people wanting to enjoy the

same success that Strata Professionals has experienced?

We’re all very much aware of the opportunities, challenges and difficulties in operating and sustaining a small business, especially in a regional area. I feel that the challenges facing small business in regional areas exceed those in larger capital cities, particularly given the smaller marketplace generally on offer and as such, thorough research, sufficient capital and a preparedness to work hard and often beyond the call of duty, so to speak, are essential ingredients for anyone wanting to operate a successful local business.

And finally, if you could invite any three business people to lunch, who would they be, and why would you invite them?

The recently retired Manchester United Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson, would be one.

Delicately managing so many high profile players, including names like David Beckham, throughout his 26 year reign whilst at the same time successfully balancing the insatiable demands of club owners, shareholders, supporters and the like and transforming the club into a major business and sporting empire would be intriguing. What a business and sporting success he can lay claim to!

On the home front though, I couldn’t go past quintessential Aussie entrepreneur and businessman Dick Smith. A truly iconic and proud Australian - hearing about his adventurous life and success in business would be inspirational.

Imagine what could be learnt from someone like Gail Kelly. Married with four children, started out as a bank teller and is now the current CEO of Westpac. The first woman to hold such a position! The advice she could offer to any business would be invaluable!

Thanks for your time Andrew!

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JBL Glass At JBL Glass we are excited to be expanding our range of Sliding Wardrobe Door Systems to include the DIAS Aluminium, Slimline™ Triple Track and Softline™ in the Space Maker Collection.

The Slimline™ Triple Track has the advantage of being able to slide three doors back on to each other, providing greater interior accessibility, with an expansive two thirds door opening.

Lynn Mooney North Coast Sales Edstein Creative Stone has a heritage that dates back to 1896 and has been supplying monuments to the people of NSW throughout the years. Today the business is a state of the art company with industry leading technology for the production of a range of stone products, including the Traditional Monumental Line, Stone Benchtops and more recently Stone Landscape and Pool Paving.

When we work with you to configure the layout of drawers, shelving and hanging in your wardrobe, this vast opening area increases options and design flexibility.

The Slimline™ Triple Track has an 81 mm width; this is considered standard for the majority of double track wardrobe systems. The Slimline™ Double Track has an even narrower profile, ideal for areas where space may be an issue or alternatively, can be installed in an opening as a room divider or partition. The doors have been designed with hidden rollers so appear identical from both sides, and the track is foot-friendly and easy-to-clean.

When the time comes to select a monument, our staff work closely with families in an effort to guide them through the process of choosing a fitting memorial for their loved one no longer with us. We have a wide range of memorials to suit any taste and budget, and our caring staff can assist with the selection. We also specialise in additions to existing monuments and restoration of older monuments requiring some tender loving care to restore them to their original condition.

JBL Glass is currently the only supplier of the DIAS Slimline™ Triple Track in Port Macquarie and along with our Softline™ range of wardrobe doors, will be available in wide variety of aluminium colours and panel finishes, mirror, 9 mm Polytec® board or white glass.

Lynn Mooney, our North Coast Sales Consultant, is available in the Hastings and Camden Haven region every second Wednesday by appointment, so should you have any requirements, please feel free to contact Lynn on 6551 6266 to arrange an appointment.

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Indulge your imagination and let JBL Glass create an absolute premium wardrobe design at a surprisingly affordable price.

Come down to our showroom at 19 Uralla Road, or call us today to arrange a free quote.

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