New England Focus i130 by Focus

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March 2018. issue 130

Armidale Autumn Festival

1 5 - 1 8

M A R C H

2 0 1 8 / / PROGRAM GUIDE PAGE 27

Feature Story Jess Ribeiro

THE ULTIMATE

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Welcome to the March edition of New England FOCUS.

arch is upon us, and 2018 is moving fast! March brings one of New England locals’ favourite seasons - autumn! Around the region you’ll see the landscape transform into vibrant reds, oranges and yellow. If you take a walk down the Beardy Street Mall, you’ll see the changes in full effect. ON THE COVER To coincide with International Women’s Day on Thursday 8th March, FOCUS publishes our annual Women in Business feature. This year our feature is exciting, with a huge line up of super successful women from all walks of life. This month we styled our shoot at the iconic Whitebull Hotel, which provided this luxe look. Introducing the cover girls this month: Bec Chadd - BJ’s Hair for Men, Melissa Killen - Little Fish/O’Connor, Deb Hunter - Rusden Street Physiotherapy, and Tracy Wright - Raw Fibre. A big thanks to everyone involved in this month’s shoot; we hope you enjoyed it too! INSIDE THIS EDITION We have a great line up of stories this month for your reading pleasure, and to kick it all off we have …

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

The Country Women’s Association has been operating for many years, proving support for the community in many ways. This year they are holding their annual conference on the 30th April until 4th May, with Armidale chosen as the location town for the event. Friends and family gathered at The Brewery in Uralla to celebrate two milestones in the history of family owned and operated business, Neal Howard’s Electrical Service (NHES). The date marked 65 years of operation and recognised the wonderful lifetime’s work of Donald Patrick “Donny” Wallace, who has been with NHES for 50 years. FOCUS caught up with the crew and sparked a conversation. The 24th March brings the annual Seasons of New England, with over 100 stalls on display showing all the great things on offer at this year’s event. As a maker and producer show, you’ll find plenty to eat, drink and heaps of cool items for you to style your life, or somebody else’s! After the incredible success that was Annie! The Musical in 2016, O’Connor Catholic College is back with another hit

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musical production in 2018! This year O’Connor proudly presents the Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical, High School Musical: On Stage! Once again O’Connor staff members Melissa Killen, Melita Roache, and Jenny Roff have taken on the mammoth task of delivering another powerhouse production, but they’re not alone, with fellow colleague Melanie Sampson, former students Amy Roff, Harry Lye and Lauren Boundy, and long time O’Connor affiliates Sarah Watson and Duncan Carmichael jumping on board to support the 40 strong cast to bring this show to life! FINAL SAY This month we leave you with this influential quote. “A woman is like a tea bag - you can’t tell how strong she is until you put her in hot water.” - Eleanor Roosevelt.

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PHOTOGRAPHER James Brooks james@focusmag.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. New England Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications Pty Ltd ABN: 62128786005. Material in New England Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications Pty Ltd 2016 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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New England focus. 3

focusinterview.

WITH THE EXPO RUNNING

of N E W E N G L A N D We’re talking with Tara Toomey, owner and organiser of Seasons of New England, about the next Expo set down for Saturday 24th March at Hampden Park, in beautiful downtown Uralla.

ell us a little about the expo; what makes it such a special day? This year we have reached an amazing milestone of well over 100 stalls, which means there are over 100 vibrant and inspiring business stories to be discovered! It’s really exciting and a great opportunity to celebrate the New England, to support the people who make it a great place to live and to perhaps be inspired to pursue a dream of starting your own business. The Expo is designed to provide a space for businesses to be discovered both on the day of the event and then into the future as well, through our various year round promotional activities. Our aim is to provide a meaningful year round platform for the makers, creators and producers of the New England to be discovered, and the Expo is the perhaps the most well known part of that program. The Expo also creates a unique opportunity for travellers to discover the region, and our increasing number of visitors drawn from more than 100 km away confirms this interest. Drawing from right across the New England from Tamworth to Tenterfield, Dorrigo to Inverell, Seasons of New England Expo days are a great way to celebrate life in the New England 4 New England focus.

and the artisans and small businesses that make it such a vibrant and diverse place to holiday and to live. Each March since 2014, the Expo has also been a drawcard for shoppers looking to connect with the businesses of the New England and shop with the maker. Increasingly though, it has become the space for retailers and those in the restaurant and café industry to come and discover new products to take back to their customers. The Expo is a unique event in many ways, but not least because it is held in a picturesque cricket oval, licensed for just this event, in the heritage township of Uralla. What’s new for 2018? We have screen printed a new range of our popular Seasons bags this year, and there will be a limited edition of 80 Expo bags filled with product samples and vouchers for sale on the day too. These sold out by 1pm last year, so be sure to get in early for one of these! Seasons of New England has always had a strong commitment to the environment, and this year we are taking on the management of the waste for the event, to ensure as close to a zero waste outcome as possible. People are encouraged to bring their keep cups or their mug from home for their hot drinks if they like, and we will have staff on hand to ensure

FROM 9AM - 4PM, A DIVERSE patrons know how to cordials and relishes, cheeses, LINE UP OF TALENTED dispose of any waste skin care hand dyed wools MUSICIANS PLAY ON UNTIL on the day. We have and screen printed fabrics, 7PM, ENSURING THERE ARE also been working art, jewellery, confectionery, PLENTY OF REASONS TO with our exhibitors candles, leather goods, and HANG AROUND FOR THE to secure a bulk so much delicious food! NIGHT TIME EVENTS THAT purchase of any items Think local beef and lamb, FOLLOW THE EXPO. they might need that small goods, tasting plates, meet our requirement olives, honey, free range for compostable, eggs, nougat, pastries, pies, biodegradable and sausage rolls, Thai food, recyclable servingware fabulous BBQ dishes - and and packaging. Happily, many of our exhibitors more! have these products as part of their business New England Unearthed adds a special edge, already, and it is no surprise to us to see small bringing up and coming New England musicians business leading the way in this important area. to the Expo stage with a professional sound Why hold the event in Uralla? desk. With the Expo running from 9am - 4pm, Without a doubt, holding such a major event a diverse line up of talented musicians play on in the unique and beautiful New England town until 7pm, ensuring there are plenty of reasons of Uralla has made a significant contribution to hang around for the night time events that to the charm and character of the day. With follow the Expo. Since 2016 the magical Uralla a vibrant café and shopping scene in the Lantern Parade has followed, and the dates main street, just a block from the Expo, Uralla have also coincided with the week-long Uralla certainly shines, and people feel welcomed. Rotary Art Show. So many reasons to head to Events like this really benefit from being held Uralla! in smaller centres; the people get behind Supporting the small businesses of the the event and help us spread the word, they New England is a cause we feel is worth welcome our patrons and our strong out of championing, and so far we have had positive results. The event has consistently attracted town crowd (around half of our crowd usually strong crowds, the last of around 5,800, comes from more than 100 km away) in turn and a steady flow of overnight and longer discover the charm of a small New England stay visitors, with many involved in the Expo township. Undoubtedly, nearby villages and reporting long tail business as a result of being cities also benefit, creating a win-win for the involved in the day. It’s a great way to showcase New England. a thriving New England. What does the line up hold for 2018? Thanks Tara. As a fully licensed event we do love the Catch the Seasons of New England Expo opportunity to showcase the region’s award on Saturday 24th March from 9am - 4pm at winning cool climate wines, craft beer, cider Hampden Park, Uralla, followed by more live and bespoke spirits. The Seasons Bar will music and evening meals before the Lantern have three craft beer kegs on tap, as well as a Parade. To follow the event and discover the comprehensive wine, cider and spirits list, and businesses involved, head to is always popular. With the makers on site with www.seasonsofnewengland.com.au their own stalls too, people can enjoy tasting Facebook - Seasons of New England, Instagram the drops and stocking up while they’re there. - seasonsne or call Tara on 0434 408 163; email Alongside these fabulous drinks are beautiful info@seasonsofnewengland.com.au handmade clothing for all ages, gourmet jams,

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New England focus. 5

focusinterview.

Monolithic KERRY DUNNE Monolithic - Paintings by Jane O’Sullivan & Kerry Dunne is the new exhibition opening at Gallery 126 on Friday 9th March at 5pm.

hy Monolithic? MONOLITHIC: having a uniform, massive, redoubtable or inflexible character or quality. We chose this title for the exhibition as it conveys the enormity and at times overwhelming presence of our individual subject matter. In essence, the sheer size of the arid landscape during the “Dry” in the Kimberley is not totally dissimilar to the impressive bulk of cargo ships navigating through the locks of the Panama Canal.

6 New England focus.

JANE O’SULLIVAN I have been painting for quite a few years now and have benefitted from art classes and workshops run by Kerry Wilson, Kerry Gulliver and most of all, Ross Laurie. I have had the opportunity to exhibit work at the Uralla Print Gallery, New England Art Society Gallery and Gallery 126. Acrylic paint is my preferred medium. The work I am showing in the Monolithic exhibition at Gallery 126 charts my response to a recent cruise around South America and focuses on the experience of moving through the narrow series of locks and surrounding equatorial jungle of the Panama Canal. Those cargo ships had the appearance of already abstracted forms, and the shifting perspectives as they were raised and lowered in the locks loomed enormous in my vision then, as they have on my canvas ever since.

I began painting in 2009 when I moved to Wollongong from Armidale. I undertook formal training at West Wollongong TAFE and the University of Wollongong. My initial focus was on printmaking, but this was replaced by painting and drawing when an accident resulted in my losing the strength needed for printmaking. I have learnt a lot from various artists, including Judith White, Brett Masters, Jo Bertini and Ross Laurie. My work has been exhibited in the Licorice Allsorts exhibitions in Wollongong, in the Ewart Gallery in Willoughby and I made the short list for the 2017 Ewart Art Prize. I find inspiration in the landscape around me. In 2015 I experienced an arid landscape for the first time at Fowlers Gap in far western New South Wales on a painting trip with Ross Laurie and Idris Murphy. After growing up at the coast, I discovered there was an affinity between the desert and the

ocean. Both trigger a sense of the enormity of space that is both exhilarating and unsettling. I have since sought out remote environments for my work, and in 2016 and 2017 I spent time painting in the Eastern Kimberley, south of Kununurra. The paintings in the exhibition are the product of these trips. The forms, patterns and colours in the landscape are the inspirations in my work, which oscillates from the more descriptive to the more abstract. I want to express the impact of the landscape, its weighty permanence, and the feelings of human transience it triggers. I work with acrylics, oils and mixed media, the choice depending on where I am working and the logistics and time frames of travelling. The exhibition is open until Saturday 7th April at Gallery 126, 126 Jessie St, Armidale.

issue

New England Medieval Arts Society.

inside this

Issue 130 - March 2018

Regulars

10. WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ON MARCH 18. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 44. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE

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Worldclass Duo.

Musica Viva Armidale and the New England Conservatorium will present an unmissable concert featuring Karin Schaupp and cellist Umberto Clerici. They will perform a programme exploring songs throughout the ages at the Armidale Town Hall on Thursday 5th April.

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The New England Medieval Arts Society has been hosting a biennial event in the Armidale Pine forest for 32 years. You may have seen them re-enacting fighting in the Autumn Parade or hosting community events. Three decades on, it has become the largest re-enactor in the Southern Hemisphere! FOCUS catches up with Amy Winrow, who tells us all about this year's event.

16 20

Prime My Project.

The Rotary Club of Armidale AM has been supporting the Armidale and wider community for 26 years. This year, they have decided on rolling out a major community initiative to help our community that we are excited to share, called Prime My Project. Sam Doyle tells FOCUS readers of the progress so far.

New England focus. 7

focusinterview.

The Uralla Family Fishing And Fun Day is the brainchild of Paula and Wayne Poss. They are gearing up for this year’s event, a fundraiser for the Cancer Council. Uralla local legend Jeff Lutton invites all to attend this special event.

his is the third year The on the day, and it also includes a sausage Family Fishing and Fun sizzle for lunch, morning tea and the music Day is to be held in Uralla. entertainment from 5pm ‘til 9pm in the Tell us why this event evening. Free tea and coffee are provided all came about and how it has day. grown. The fishing event for the kids goes from Yes, this is the third year that the Family 10am ‘til noon, then we have a darts Fishing and Fun Day will be held at our competition, pool competition, NTP golf comp property just on the outskirts of Uralla. We over the dam, a chipping and putting comp, had always wanted to organise a function, rubber boot throwing for the ladies, face or a day, to raise funds to help those people painting for the kids, a jumping castle and a who have been diagnosed with some form of lolly scramble for the kids also. Some of the cancer. Not only does the diagnosis of cancer older people may feel a bit forgotten, so we cause people a great deal of mental stress are considering a carpet bowls comp for them, and anguish, but this mental stress can be and another new event we are considering this exacerbated by the year is canoe racing on financial impositions the dam. Wayne is again that they suddenly find trying to organise a heavy themselves under. vehicle display as well. The fact is that a How can the public get SHE HAS ASKED lot of those people involved? US TO IMPLORE don’t have the finances Just by turning ALL WOMEN TO to pay for travel or up on the day helps UNDERGO REGULAR accommodation when tremendously, but all BREAST SCREENING they are required to the events on the day TO CATCH THIS go to the city or to have a winner and R/U INSIDIOUS DISEASE IN larger regional centres prize which, over the last ITS EARLY STAGES. for treatment, and this two years, have been day is to raise funds generously donated by to help relieve that individuals, businesses and financial burden on organisations, and we are those people. hoping that we will receive their assistance We never know who or when someone once again this year. We also have an auction, is going to be diagnosed with cancer and later in the day, of other goods that have been since we started this fundraiser two years donated and of course, cash donations are ago, our sister-in-law (and sister) has been also most welcome and are tax deductible. diagnosed with breast cancer and is currently In the first year this day was held we raised still receiving treatment. She has asked us to $8,381.65 for the Uralla Branch of Can Assist implore all women to undergo regular breast and last year, despite the weather being screening to catch this insidious disease in its horrid, with cold, showery weather persisting early stages. for most of the day, another $8,000 was What can we expect on the day? raised - which really surprised us all. As has been the case for the last two years, This year, weather permitting, we would like the cost of the day is $50 for a family and to beat the $8381.65 total that we raised in $25 for solos, with this entry fee covering the first year. nominations for all events you wish to enter Thanks Jeff. 8 New England focus.

FOCUS chats with the duo about their love story and how their music careers have led them to now share the stage …

ey guys. How did you meet? Tell us a bit about your love story… Adam: To cut a long story short, Brooke just took a while to get some taste about her, because we’ve actually known each other since we were about 15 years old. It took her about 10 years to see how handsome I really was. I used to harass her back then and tell her “One day I’m gonna marry you, Brooke”, and she’d yell at me back and make rude remarks about my hairdo and stuff like that. It was a tremendous mullet, I’ll add! Brooke: I didn’t like him at all. I used to ride past his house on my way to school. He left school at 16, so he’d party all night. Basically, he’d rent his parents’ house out, and it was like a party house; he’d still be awake from the night before when I was riding to school, and he used to yell out, “I’m gonna marry you one day, Brooke McClymont”, and I used to yell out, “In your dreams, mullet head”. I couldn’t avoid him! And yes, he did have the last laugh ‘cause I ended up marrying him! Sharing children and your love for music must be something very special for you both … Brooke: It’s our life! Sometimes we look at it and go, “OMG, this is crazy; this is what we do for a living!” We are really lucky; we love it, we enjoy it, we’re both obviously very creative and we love to write songs. Individually we’ve got our own things going on, but doing this together is a real treat, ‘cause we have been so busy with our bands. This was the perfect opportuni-

ty for us to get together for these eight shows that we’ve so far booked in. On to performing together, what is the vibe like for you guys? The first few times we did it, we felt rather exposed ... Once you get past that, it sounds so different. It becomes its own thing altogether and once you allow that, it’s really satisfying. There’s a lot of room and space to explore different things; it’s a lot of fun. And for these particular shows we take the time and opportunity to tell stories about the songs and we have a joke; Brooke takes the p*ss out of me, basically. Writing songs together, how does this differ to writing with your sisters, Brooke, and your band mates, Adam? Adam: We’ve always loved writing together, whatever project. I’ve written with Brooke on the McClymonts stuff; there’s only one, I think, that made it. Brooke’s written on quite a few Adam Eckersley Band tracks as well, and we’ve written for other people. We enjoy it, ‘cause we don’t have to be light with each other; we can be really honest. It’s not necessarily that we are nasty to each other, but it’s just you don’t have to waste time worrying about what the other person thinks. We both know how each other operates, so we kind of know our strengths and our weaknesses, and we can try to meet in the middle somewhere. Thanks guys. Adam Eckersley and Brooke McClymont, Armidale SerVies, Friday 2nd March. Doors open at 7:30pm for the show at 8pm. (02) 6776 0800.

TAS Scholarship and Open Day

Monday 12 March

Give your child The Edge. Explore for yourself how a TAS education can give your son or daughter The Edge at our Scholarship and Open Day on Monday 12 March, 2018 from 11am. All welcome! For more information visit www.as.edu.au or contact Mrs Pip Warrick on 0428 414 995 or info@as.edu.au The Armidale School 87 Douglas Street, Armidale NSW 2350

T 6776 5800

E info@as.edu.au

www.as.edu.au New England focus. 9

focus_What’s On New England

M A R C H

What’s

THE BABY BOOMERS

The Armidale Golf Club is very excited to host “the Baby Boomers”, an award winning comedy and music act performing live on Friday, March 2nd. This is a dinner and show event, and will prove to be a fantastic evening for all who attend. When Friday 2nd March. Where Armidale Golf Club. Cost Dinner and show $75; show only $49. Bookings Call 6772 5837 or via try booking www.trybooking.com/345501

FIRST SATURDAY CHATS Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Christopher Serow (Principal Solicitor, Notary Public, Migration Agent) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds offices on Saturday 3rd March. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on 6788 1100.

BIBI’S ITALIAN ... By Aurora Catering Company. A contempory Italian trattoria is popping up in Armidale, Friday and Saturday nights for the month of March. Come and join us for affettati and antipasti, hand made pasta, delicious platti del giorno and dolci from heaven. Bookings are essential and seats are limited; BYO wine and beer. Call 6772 3376 for bookings and infomation.

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FAMILY FISHING AND FUN

Yes it is that time of year again! The Family Fishing and Fun Day in Aid of the Uralla Branch of CAN ASSIST is on again at Paula and Wayne Poss's property. Organisers are looking for sponsors of prizes, and any monetary donations would be most welcome. When 17th March. More info phone Paula on 6778 4483 or Jeff on 677 84602.

GEM AND CRAFT SHOW

New England Lapidary and Fossicking Club Inc. invite you to the 27th Annual Gem and Craft Show. See a spectacular array of gems, rocks, crystals, jewellery, gifts, craft, fossils and many more, all on sale at the show. Where Armidale Showground. Entry is FREE. When March 17th, 9am - 5pm and March 18th, 9am - 3pm.

MAKERS & CREATORS EXPO

The New England Expo has a great line up of stallholders ready to showcase some of the New England's finest local produce, wine, food, art and hand made products, for our Producers, Makers & Creators Expo. The Seasons Bar will be open from 10am - 10pm, so you can relax and enjoy the day, as well as the festivities of the evening. When Saturday 24th March, 9am - 4pm. Entry - FREE for children; $2 for adults.

NECOM CONCERT The New England Conservatorium and Musica Viva Armidale will present an unmissable concert featuring guitarist Karin Schaupp and cellist Umberto Clerici. They will perform a programme exploring songs throughout the ages at the Armidale Town Hall on Thurday 5th April. Bookings www.trybooking.com/TDGU Phone: NECOM 6788 2137 More info www.necom.org.au www.musicavivaarmidale.org.au

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focusinterview.

NEW ENGLAND MEDIEVAL ARTS SOCIETY

The New England Medieval Arts Society have been hosting a biennial event in the Armidale Pine forest for 32 years. You may have seen them re-enacting ﬁghting in the Autumn Parade or hosting community events. Three decades on, it has become the largest re-enactor in the Southern Hemisphere! FOCUS catches up with Amy Winrow, who tells us all about this year’s event.

hat is NEMAS, and how long have you been around? NEMAS is New England Medieval Arts Society. We are a group of history enthusiasts who research and recreate the clothing worn and lifestyle lived in Europe between the 400th and 1,100th Century. We are a not for profit organisation. We were founded in 1986 and are celebrating our thirty second year of existence this year. NEMAS held its first Easter Gathering in 1996. That event attracted around 50 people from Sydney. Times were very different then. These cool kids with big dreams were making it happen in our forest, long before Vikings, Outlander, Game of Thrones and The Last Kingdom! The Gathering attracts a diverse range of participants and continues to grow as reenacting becomes more mainstream in Australia. Visitors to the Easter Gathering come from as far afield as Norway, New Zealand, Perth, Townsville, Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and many towns between. This year we will be having attendees flying in from Denmark! Today the festival brings over 600 participants to the Armidale Pine Forest to camp in our 12 New England focus.

Viking Village. They purchase their camping consumables in Armidale, stimulating the town’s economy and cultural activities. It is now the biggest re-enactor only event in the Southern Hemisphere. Participants bring their authentic clothing and equipment, their families, horses and crafts, they join their encampment in the forest carrying out daily activities such as trading goods, cooking, sewing, maintaining armour and weapons. We have a Smithy where blacksmiths teach, display and sell their craft, a Bodger using a branch lathe to turn wood, potters, weavers, tanners and bards, brewers, archers, jewellers, fighters and cooks. The village comes alive over Easter! It is a very special space and time that many hold dear. People fall in love, propose, bless their newborns and perform rites of passage in this forest. After a day of mock battles and camaraderie, they gather in the tavern by the glow of the hearth; in their mead hazed revelry, many are inclined to pledge allegiance to our monarch and vow to attend many more Easter Gatherings together! NEMAS also attends other medieval events in Australia and the world. Club members have participated in Jousts in Poland, Roman reenactments in France and the 200th Anniversary

Participants bring their authentic clothing and equipment, their families, horses and crafts, they

of the Battle of Waterloo. forest alone is enough One of our members is of a reason to gather join their encampment currently working with retogether ... Combine in the forest carrying out enactors in Denmark after that with the physical daily activities such as competing in HEMA sword sensations of medieval trading goods, cooking, tournaments in Switzerland life, the textures and sewing, maintaining armour and Sweden. smells, the satisfaction and weapons. Over the past three of sculpting with decades NEMAS have nature’s raw materials conducted many in a community of educational school shows like-minded folk. The and supported Armidale’s community events. Easter Gathering is a luxury for Australasian Early You may have seen us marching with our roaring Medieval re-enactors, who immerse themselves fighters in the Autumn Parade. This year we will in an event that is the highlight of their be making a larger presence in the town, with calendars. People hold very dear memories of the Bunnings BBQs and community performances, Forest for many reasons and invite their loved so keep an eye out for us! Or invite us to your ones to join them. school or event! In times gone by we have been able to set Why do you think people are so committed up weeks in advance, and during this time you to this particular event and love the forest may have been lucky enough to stumble into so much? the Viking Village site whilst the camps are set I think that in this fast paced world where we up and feel as though you had been transported are surrounded by mobile phones, wifi, cars, through time. The early morning mist tinged sirens, pollution and plastic, people crave a real with the scent of smoke and pine sap, roasting connection and the soothing ambience of the meats and fresh bread. The air enlivened by the Armidale Community Pine Forest. sound of a content and fully functioning Viking Whether people go to ride a bike or walk a Village. dog, the pine forest is a remarkable space. The The Viking Village site and attached forest

focusinterview.

In times gone by we have been

is booked by NEMAS our school shows able to set up weeks in advance, 27th March - 3rd April and community and during this time you for this “closed” event. involvement. We are may have been lucky If you stumble in during also deeply committed enough to stumble into these times, you will be to improving the Pine the Viking Village site unfortunately swiftly Forest Viking Village site. whilst the camps are set up and removed to ensure your The Easter Gathering feel as though you had been own safety and our legal 2018 is really striving transported through time. requirements. However, the to be environmentally public is invited to join us aware and proactive. We on Easter Monday. Tickets have implemented a zero to visit the Viking Village waste strategy for the event and are currently will be available at the gate on Pine Forest Road at seeking Council support. In partnership with that time. our generous supporters, State Forests, we have So as a member of the public we can come to begun creek regeneration of Donald’s Creek. the Open Day; what if we want to join and This includes new bridges and fencing to keep participate in club activities? cattle out of the riparian zone so we can replant We always welcome new member;, the bank with natives to assist stabilisation and unfortunately due to insurance obligations, new discourage erosion. We have built a grease trap memberships are now closed until after Easter. for our kitchen grey water and are encouraging Come along to the Open Day and speak to one all attendants to separate their waste to enable of our friendly Vikings, and we will discuss the recycling and composting. With community membership process with you. consultation and State Forest and Council What else does NEMAS have planned for the approval, we hope to be able to assist in the future? construction of a large permanent picnic style We have a schedule of events that we attend. structure for all pine forest visitors to enjoy. NEMAS regularly puts on a display for the Glen Thanks Amy. All the best with those great Innes Celtic Festival and at the Abbey Tournament plans and your Easter Gathering, NEMAS. We Festival near Caboolture. We are very keen to increase and reinvigorate will see you at the Open Day! New England focus. 13

focusinterview.

High School

Musical On Stage!

AFTER THE INCREDIBLE SUCCESS THAT WAS “ANNIE! THE MUSICAL” IN 2016, O’CONNOR CATHOLIC COLLEGE IS BACK WITH ANOTHER HIT MUSICAL PRODUCTION IN 2018!

his year O’Connor proudly presents the Disney Channel’s smash hit movie musical, High School Musical: On Stage! Once again O’Connor staff members Melissa Killen, Melita Roache, and Jenny Roff have taken on the mammoth task of delivering another powerhouse production, but they’re not alone, with fellow colleague Melanie Sampson, former students Amy Roff, Harry Lye and Lauren Boundy, and long time O’Connor affiliates Sarah Watson and Duncan Carmichael jumping on board to support the 40 strong cast to bring this show to life! Melissa, after a sell out season of Annie! The Musical in 2016, what can we expect from High School Musical: On Stage? Coming off the back of the success of Annie! there’s certainly a degree of pressure to deliver something just as special! We, being myself, Melita, Jenny and Sarah, sat down only weeks after Annie! wrapped up and threw around a lot of options of where to next. We settled on High School Musical: On Stage as we wanted to move as far away from the “classic” musical as possible and deliver something completely different. High School Musical seemed to be the perfect mix of a show that was well known, but one that is rarely seen, and has never been done in Armidale before. It’s a familiar story transposed in to a modern setting and when we announced it at a general College assembly 14 New England focus.

last year, the response from the student body was incredibly positive … and loud! It’s a fun, fast paced and energetic show that the cast has completely embraced! It’s going to be an extremely entertaining experience for our audiences! Melita, musically speaking this certainly is a change from the classic and well-known score you worked with previously. How have you approached the music this time around? It’s certainly been a completely different process from Annie! It might be a Disney show, but the music can be deceivingly tricky, especially for young performers. The musical styling changes dramatically from song to song, so there’s a lot for our cast to think about. Many of our cast members came knowing the music quite well, which might seem like a blessing on the surface, but when you ask them to split in to harmonies and delve a little deeper in to the music itself, there can be some tricky moments; it’s hard to not want to belt out the melody they’re so familiar with. Luckily enough we are working with a band of professional musicians who have proven an integral part in producing an all round high quality performance. Jenny, as Creative and Performing Arts Coordinator you've seen a boost in arts participation at the College. Why do you think this is? The overwhelming success of Annie! The Musical has no doubt played a part in this

boost, and of course the experienced and creative staff across the faculties work hard to ensure that students make the most of every learning opportunity. In the past few years, O'Connor has definitely established itself as a school where creativity and talent are consistently nurtured and developed. This is reflected through IT’S A FUN, FAST PACED participation in AND ENERGETIC SHOW a wide array of THAT THE CAST HAS ensembles, Eisteddfod production of High School COMPLETELY EMBRACED! results, visual arts Musical. By participating in IT’S GOING TO BE AN awards and of course, EXTREMELY ENTERTAINING this area, students and staff the huge participation EXPERIENCE FOR OUR work collaboratively on a in all facets of High AUDIENCES! production, and the finished School Musical. Regina, as the product is of a high standard College principal that they can be proud of. you must feel a The skills they learn will help sense of pride regarding the growing them now and into the future. Not only that, success of the Arts at O'Connor. What it is FUN! O’Connor is a community “Founded does arts education mean to you, and on Faith and Focused on Learning”. What a why is producing something of this scale great way to learn! important in education? Thanks everyone. The skills needed for students to flourish in this world include creativity, collaboration and teamwork, problem solving and critical thinking. Arts education plays a vital role plug! in enhancing and embedding these skills. Performances 8 - 10 March. O’Connor is proactive in supporting these Tickets at trybooking.com/TXNV skills in a range of endeavours, including our

New England focus. 15

focus_editorial.

art 41st Annual

Rotary

EXHIBITION

Allingham’s Removals & Storage. The world doesn’t feel so big when you’re dealing with Allingham’s … Everyone knows Allingham’s as their local removalist, but I think most people would be shocked to know just how far they’ll go to get you settled into your new home. So where in Australia can Allingham’s actually help me move to? Our reach is as far as your imagination allows; we can deliver and pick up from anywhere you need. Soon we will be heading to Perth to do a job, and we have space available on the way back. Not to mention overseas transport, which we can also provide. I can have my things shipped internationally through you? Of course. We cater for all needs and have a large range of partners that we work with in order to get your possessions where they need to go, even internationally. We receive regular shipments from our overseas partners for delivery in the New England. Next month we have a Canada pack, wrap and move.

Markets in the Mall

Plans are well underway for the opening of the 41st Annual Rotary Club of Uralla Art Exhibition to be held at the Memorial Hall, Salisbury Street, Uralla.

he club expects to display near to 500 artworks from artists across NSW and Queensland, with all artworks for sale. Opening night, which is the social event of the year, is Friday 16th March at 6:30pm for Official Opening at 7:30pm. Well known guest artist Harold Le Jeune from Port Macquarie will be present on the night, with an impressive display of his art, including an art work donated for the raffle. Delicious finger food will be provided by the Uralla Central School Hospitality students.

Local Merilba and Whyworry Wines will provide wines for the evening’s official function and a raffle. Music by the ever popular Peter Stanley. Cost is $20 pp; tickets available at the door. Everyone is welcome; an invitation is not needed. Please RSVP for catering. A free drawing workshop will be conducted by Harold Le Jeune on Sunday 18th March for 18+ age group from 1pm to 4pm. Places are limited. Contact Dick Kaehler on 0467 813 565. Art Chairman Peter Phillips said the whole town is behind the annual exhibition, with overwhelming

sponsorship and financial support. Money raised goes towards Uralla community groups and supporting youth. Opening Daily: 10am to 4pm Saturday 17th March to Saturday 24th March; 10am to 2pm Sunday 25th March. Entry fees: $5 adult, $4 seniors, children under 12 years free. Art show contacts: Peter Phillips - Chairman. Jan Kaehler - Co-ordinator. Ph: (02) 6775 3212. Mob: 0429 608 521.

focus_editorial.

Tattersalls

Whether you’re just moving down the road or to the other side of the globe, no move is too big or too small for Allingham’s Removals & Storage.

Hotel

With the current refurbishment of the Tattersalls Hotel near completion, we are looking for some art to grace the walls of the newly finished hotel.

e are looking for historic images or memorabilia of the Tatts Hotel from Armidale of yesteryear. If you have items you think are from

16 New England focus.

the Tatts or a picture with the Tatts in the background, we’d love to see it. Condition is not the biggest issue; finding it is! You may have some family or friends from the area who have a box of old photos or memorabilia from Armidale’s past; have a dig through

for us. You’ll probably have fun doing it too! If you have something you believe that’s of interest, please feel free to call us on (02) 6772 2247. We’d love to have some of your old photos on the walls for the public to view.

focus_editorial.

Impossible

GUEST

Impossible Guest is a new exhibition at NERAM by artist Elizabeth Willing that will give visitors an opportunity to experience contemporary art practice with a different flavour.

ERAM hosts an impossible guest this month: “Elizabeth is an artist, baker, architect, dinner host, scientist, designer and child playing with her food,” said Rachael Parsons, NERAM’s Manager Curatorial and Exhibitions. “She uses food and drink as her creative starting point to make new works that challenge the viewer.

(Berlin), and the Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA in Brisbane) and undertaken residencies in New York, London, Berlin and Armidale.

“We believe that these works will create an interesting dialogue with our visitors, who may not be used to thinking of food as contemporary art.”

“These artworks are not concerned with food and drink from a nourishment perspective; the show is made up of alcohol and biscuits, unnecessary groceries,” said the artist. “The foods are chosen for their decorative qualities, design, colour, pattern, and the methods of processing and display are dedicated to highlighting these qualities.

Impossible Guest is on display at the

“The pieces have qualities reminiscent

www.neram.com.au

Elizabeth Willing is a contemporary artist who is currently undertaking a Masters of Fine Art (research) at Queensland University of Technology. She has exhibited at Tolarno Galleries (Melbourne), Kunstlerhaus Bethanien

These new works by the Brisbane based artist are the result of a three-week residency in NERAM’s Packsaddle Studio in 2017, where she was inspired by the New England region’s people, landscape and produce.

of both fine art and of advertising. The works capture food in their bodies, which allows us to consider the material which is so often immediately ingested. “These are not artworks that are made to last; instead, these forms are temporary displays needing to be destroyed and re-made each time they are exhibited, returning us again to food as ephemera.“ New England Regional Art Museum from 17 February until the 18 March 2018 and has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body. For further information, visit

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LOCALS 4 LOCALS

Winners every month! It’s easy to see Locals 4 Locals love giving cash and prizes to you and me! Winning cold, hard cash has never been easier; all you need to do is shop and enter at your favourite shops. The more times you enter, the more entries you have to win.

he lucky winner this time is Jenny Barlow, who won a massive $500 in our Christmas draw by hiring Rapid Clean to

With Easter approaching, Locals 4 Locals

When you spend your hard earned

are ready to continue supporting local

dollars, why not spend them where it

businesses and the local community by

matters? Look for the Locals 4 Locals sign

continuing this amazing service of finding

in the shopfront of your favourite stores.

get the job done! All up we had 9 x $150

five lucky winners.

winners plus Jenny. Locals 4 Locals would

With so many Locals 4 Local members

like to thank everyone who shopped

located in town, you’d be hard pressed

locally for Christmas Presents in 2017. In

to shop anywhere else! Not only does

2018 our monthly raffle will continue,

it boost our local economy, businesses

more times you shop at participating

where each month 5 lucky shoppers will

spend dollars in the community too!

businesses, the higher your chances to

each win a $100 L4L Gift Voucher.

That’s a winner for everyone.

win!

Simply spend $25 or more. Register your entry at the counter. That’s it! You have one entry in the L4L prize pool. The

New England focus. 17

focus_contributor

focus_Contributor

WITH SUSIE DUNN

N AT H A N W A L K E R F R O M A U R O R A C AT E R I N G C O & C A F E PAT T I S S E R I E

AT’S IN WH 12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS

season

Icing

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

Certain vegetables and fruits are at their optimum quality at certain times of the year - a concept commonly referred to as “seasonality”. Not lost on farmers and people who depend on the land for there livelihoods, seasonality is very important in the kitchen if you are trying to maximise flavour, colour and texture, and produce the best possible dish for the customer.

CAKE

Sadly, the berries are coming to an end soon; we are still getting lots of delicious figs and are looking forward to guava, kiwi and pomegranate. Plums and peaches are still in good condition and the local rhubarb and zucchini are exceptional, there is still some great last season garlic going around, and some great locally farmed mushrooms are always on the menu. Looking forward to new season apples and quince and other fragrant autumn flavours time to get back into the kitchen! Happy cooking.

FAKE NEWS. My mother told me that when she was small, the breakfast oats packet proudly stated "Makes little girls pretty". Things seem a little more complicated today. Just bought a dress - which I feel is pretty smart the label reads "Strings not to be used for strangling". I rest my case.

he rise of invasive social media with its data mining, algorithms and quick reaction Twitter have potential downsides of both cruelty and danger. Bullying has reached epidemic status, and children particularly are so very vulnerable to all kinds of it. We’ve had to deal with it in our family - and it isn’t nice. Certainly not funny. They say voluble people on Twitter often can’t easily engage in eye contact with others. Shopping for many items still gives a better result when I can see, assess and discuss. I simply can’t understand how any human being can try something in a shop, buy online, and then go back and tell the retailer all about it. Shame! Sorting genuine information from opinion or fake news can be difficult, but an upside is evident in discussions about the future of the Armidale Mall (and through the alt.proposal shopfront). People share views very quickly, and it’s aroused tremendous feelings of engagement and ownership of public space by citizens, bringing responses from Mayor Simon Murray and Council. That has to be encouraging for democracy, and hopefully we’ll gain a great result. A re-vitalised Mall is as important to our region’s future as the development of a new business park. Really. Public health benefits by having public meeting places. Doing nothing shouldn’t be an option - we need all these moves. I’m sorry I couldn’t join a preview tour of the new Armidale Hospital with Adam Marshall. A great achievement for the region, and congratulations to Adam for keeping the pressure up to achieve it. One of the special events here is always January’s Guyra Lamb & Potato Festival, held for over 30 years. All sorts of things can be found there, plus meals and music, and the most important one is the strong sense of community and volunteering. And I’ve got a surprise couple of fashion items I treasure.

18 New England focus.

Never underestimate the sense of community shown in so many private and public ways. People rally around. Some also quietly share their homes and talents, with art "happenings" and concerts. This is special. It’s sad that this sort of community isn’t so easy to find now, and a more silo-ed Me Me Me ethic seems to be gaining ground. The opening of NERAM’s permanent Hinton exhibition by long-term gallery friend Edmund Capon, former Director of the Art Gallery of NSW, was made possible by generous local donors and the Margaret Olley Trust. Director Robert Heather aims for "an iconic destination exhibition" from our nationally significant collection of more than 1,000 artworks donated by philanthropist Howard Hinton. We are incredibly lucky that Hinton’s generosity was expressed here. Do visit. History moves on relentlessly. Climate change, energy security … now these have to be confronted. New discussions about Australia Day and the question of a republic come forward for consideration. As Australians, most of us want to celebrate an Australia Day. Now we need to make sure that all Australians are genuinely part of it. As far as a republic goes, I don’t warm to that particular word and wish we had a different one to describe what seems inevitable eventually. Thank goodness prices for fine wool are looking good. It’s time! Cattle are holding up so far, but it’s dry … How we ALL depend on water! It’s encouraging talking with new business owners who’ve moved here to utilise the NBN and are quietly getting on with their commercial enterprises. New energy, new generations, new opportunities. Let’s make sure we’re up for them. Oh - and thank goodness … Tatts is looking good - fingers crossed. Susie Dunn. I have a card saying: "I want a future that lives up to my past"… So I’m programming some little adventures …

Nathan Walker, Chef and Co-owner, Aurora Catering Co & Café Patisserie . 9/140 Miller St. Ph: 6772 3376.

WHERE

Find out more about The Other Chef at www.theotherchef.com.au

Blend

focustea WITH ROSS FROM D A I LY R I T U A L A R M I D A L E

month of the

LOOSE LEAF TEAS Using tea strainers will give the leaves room to expand and will add a better taste to your tea. Herbal tea is not a tea. It is made from an infusion of roots, barks, flowers, leaves, seeds of the plant Camellia Sinensis. Earl Grey got its name from the British Diplomat to China. Tea was so expensive, that it was kept locked in tea chests, and the lady of the house was given the responsibility to guard it. Loose leaf tea remains good for two years, when stored in an air tight container. Tea tasting is one of the highest paying jobs. Tea leaves pressed in between bricks were

Where

used as a form of currency in ancient China. The Guwahti tea auction centre is one of the busiest tea trading facilities in the world. The American revolution started off with the Boston tea party. High tea got its name from evening meals being served at high tables with high back dining chairs. English tea gardens were the only places where men and women could meet in public, without criticism or scandal. In Asia, it is said, tea readers can predict your future. Stir your last sip three times and a pattern it leaves behind will tell you what the future has in store for you.

Find out more about other quality blends at www.dailyritual.com.au

New England focus. 19

focusinterview.

rom gentle Spanish lullabies to fiery contemporary works, from Schubert to De Falla, Umberto Clerici and Karin Schaupp reinvent beautiful melodies with lush accompaniments for the unique and intoxicating combination of cello and guitar. The listener is taken on an emotional journey, with songs drawn from all over the world and from different life stages, interwoven with anecdotes about the inspiration behind these timeless melodies. Karin Schaupp is one of the most outstanding guitarists on the international scene, her playing hailed by the German press as “so perfect, so complete, that it seems like a miracle”. In her teens she won prestigious international prizes in Italy and Spain, and is today sought after internationally as a recitalist, soloist and festival guest, making countless television and radio appearances. Umberto Clerici began studying cello when he was five. Already a prize winner at many international competitions, Umberto is the only Italian cellist other than Mario Brunello to have won a prize at the renowned “Tchaikovsky Competition” in Moscow. Umberto has performed as soloist at the Carnegie Hall in New York, Musik Verein in Vienna, the great Shostakovich Hall of St Petersburg and Auditorium Parco della Musica in Rome. In 2014 he was appointed as Principal Cello of the Sydney Symphony after he had been Principal Cello at the Teatro 20 New England focus.

Regio in Turin for four years. We chatted with Karin Schaupp to discuss the duo’s upcoming performance in Armidale: You’ve worked with quite a few artists who have performed for Musica Viva Armidale in the past, including the Flinders and Orava Quartets. Is this your first time visiting Armidale? I have played in Armidale, but it was a long time ago. Travelling so much it can all be a bit of a blur, but I believe I last played there with the Piazzolla project many years ago. In any case, it’s been too long, and I am looking forward to returning! You will be performing with cellist Umberto Clerici; how did your collaboration first come about? We first played together at the Musica Viva Festival in Sydney in 2015 and discovered a great musical affinity, which we wanted to explore further. How do guitar and cello complement/ contrast with each other? The guitar and cello “sing” in the same register, but with very different colours, which complement each other very well. To me, this pairing creates a particularly beautiful sound world with the guitar. How did you both select the repertoire for this concert? This repertoire is a celebration of our first album together - WAYFARING - so most of the concert programme is drawn from the album with the addition of a wonderful work by South American composer Gnattali,

which is one of the Umberto is a very The guitar and cello ‘sing’ in masterpieces of guitar expressive performer, the same register, but and cello repertoire. and we both like to with very different Is there a lot of music tell emotional stories colours, which scored for guitar and through music, so I complement each other cello, or do you have hope that people will very well. To me, this pairing to occasionally adapt feel moved and taken creates a particularly beautiful existing works? on a journey. sound world with the guitar. Our new CD is mostly What advice can you transcriptions, as it give to students who focuses on songs and might wish to make how they can illustrate performance their our journey through career? life. Many of these songs translate very Follow your dreams, wherever they take well to the wordless voices of the cello and you! the guitar. Some were written for guitar and What else is in store for you this year? voice and sit very naturally on the cello. I have a busy year of various projects and There is a small body of original work for festival performances, many of which haven’t cello and guitar with a few treasures, but been announced yet, so I shall remain a little transcriptions are very widespread, and many mysterious here. Umberto and I are touring of them work exceptionally well. Quite a few and focusing on our new album release in of the transcriptions were made for us for the first few months of the year. this project, so there is almost no memory I am also the Head of Guitar at Queensland that they were originally intended to played Conservatorium Griffith University, so on other instruments, or indeed sung. between touring, recording, teaching (and For an audience that might never have being a mum of two young kids!) life is heard this combination before, what always full to the brim! can they expect to take away from the concert? It’s a gorgeous programme of emotionally engaging and largely lyrical songs When Thursday 5th April; 7pm. reconceived for cello and guitar. There are Book online www.trybooking.com/TDGU also some fiery Spanish and Latin pieces to Phone NECOM 6788 2137 round out the programme, and solos from More info www.necom.org.au each of us. www.musicavivaarmidale.org.au

quartet remain in demand internationally as performers and recording artists. The Goldners bring unmatched musical intuition to every phrase. "beautiful chamber music and virtuosic "be performances" autiful c It’s this closeness2018that makes them so appealAnn ing to watch in Announcing Concerts performance – every motion and every glance appears in the music as well. Thursdays @ 7pm Concert Series

Thu

Karin Schaupp & Umberto Clerici

Thursday 5 April @ 7pm - Armidale Town Hall www.trybooking.com/TDGU

In 2018 they continue their critically acclaimed collaboration with a programme exploring song throughout the ages. From gentle Spanish lullabies to fiery contemporary works, from Schubert to De Falla, Clerici and Schaupp reinvent beautiful melodies with lush accompaniments for the unique and intoxicating combination of cello and guitar.

More Information: New England Conservatorium Phone: 6788 2137 www.necom.org.au www.musicavivaarmidale.org.au

Richard Gill and Sydney Chamber Choir

Thursday 3 May @ 7pm - Lazenby Hall UNE www.trybooking.com/TDGY

The human voice is the most expressive of all instruments, and this concert features some of the great masters of choral writing: Hildegard of Bingen's ecstatic melodies; exquisitely passionate madrigals by Monteverdi and Gesualdo; the lush harmonies of Brahms and the delicacy of Debussy; and three thrilling Australian choruses for a mighty finale.

Goldner Quartet

Thursday 8 November @ 7pm - Armidale Town Hall www.trybooking.com/TDHC Approaching their 25th anniversary in 2020, Australia’s premier string quartet remain in demand internationally as performers and recording artists. The Goldners bring unmatched musical intuition to every phrase. It’s this closeness that makes them so appealing to watch in performance – every motion and every glance appears in the music as well.

More Information: New England Conservatorium Phone: 6788 2137 www.necom.org.au www.musicavivaarmidale.org.au

New England focus. 21

focus coffee.

Armidale Coffee House Armidale Coffee House is having a mini makeover! We are just SO EXCITED to be able to offer a completely re-vamped menu, from drinks and desserts, to our All Day Breakfast and lunch menu. We have also introduced a set Daily Specials Menu. Our whole range of drinks and food is strongly focused on healthy options with delicious flavours. Most dietary needs can be catered for; just chat with one of our friendly, helpful staff. Our NEW LOOK menu is rolling out

soon; the wait is nearly over! (Be sure to ask about our hidden menu!)

ARMIDALE PLAZA (02) 6771 9725 MON, TUES, WED & FRI - 8AM - 5:30PM THURS - 8AM - 6:30PM SAT - 8AM - 4:30PM SUN - 8AM - 2:30PM

The Peach Blossom Café Here at The Peach Blossom Café, our products are both locally sourced and handmade. Whether you are in the mood for a tasty Guyra pie or sausage roll or maybe you fancy something a little sweeter, like some homemade cheesecake, The Peach Blossom Café has just the thing to hit that spot! If you aren’t hungry, grab a seat and catch up with some friends over some of our

delicious coffee, guaranteed to be served with a smile. Located in the Armidale Plaza, it’s hard to walk past without being enticed in by the mouth watering aromas. THE ARMIDALE PLAZA, 9-5, MONDAY TO FRIDAY; 9-2 SATURDAY.

TwentyFour on Moore - Grandma’s Dutch Apple Pie Iris, co-owner of TwentyFour on Moore, has

Bistro on Cinders We would like to invite you this evening to indulge yourself in our well loved Australian/ Asia inspired food, made from the freshest ingredients, and always beautifully presented. Sit down and enjoy a relaxing night with mouthwatering food. It’s too hard to resist when it tastes this damn good! We look forward to welcoming you

22 New England focus.

brought a little slice of the Netherlands to our café! Our popular Dutch Apple Pie is a favourite with our customers. Served warm

very soon at Bistro on Cinders (behind the

with cream or ice cream, it is a scrumptious

Post Office in Cinders Lane) for breakfast,

blend of crisp apples and cinnamon, baked in

lunch, or dinner.

tasty pastry and topped with cinnamon sugar.

1/14 CINDERS LANE (BEHIND THE POST OFFICE) (02) 6772 2828 TUESDAY TO SATURDAY, 8AM - 2PM; THURS, FRI, & SAT, 5:30PM - 9PM.

and dairy free friands and scones, just to name a few. Everything we sell is baked in store!

Our Dutch Apple Pie is just one of many treats available at TwentyFour on Moore. Come on in to also try our caramel slice, gluten free brownie, Ferrero Rocher cake, our gluten free

24 MOORE ST, ARMIDALE 0467 512 876 MONDAY - FRIDAY, 8AM - 5PM; THURSDAY - SATURDAY, 6PM - 9PM; SATURDAY, 8AM - 2PM.

focus coffee.

The Dandelion Café

Café Patisserie Coffee and Tea

Love homemade food? Enjoy a nice warm cup At Café Patisserie, Enora uses Numero Uno Coffee, who are a family owned coffee roaster based in Beaconsfield, Sydney; they have been passionately creating award-winning coffee for over 12 years, upholding the highest quality of production at every step. The Picasso blend that we use at Café Patisserie is a clever mix of Papua New Guinea Kokoda AA, Sumatra Gayo Mountain Grade 1 and Colombia Pitalito. Cupnotes are an aroma of honey and jasmine, sweet velvet, buttery body and notes of tobacco, caramel and toffee. But we don’t just want to be known for great coffee! We also have excellent tea by The

Luxury Tea Co, formerly Tea by Birdy, who

of coffee? Why aren’t you at The Dandelion

travel the tea gardens of the world, importing

Café grabbing some of our fresh homemade

high-grade loose leaf tea, fresh and delicious

meals and a hot cup of coffee? Newly

after each harvest, then blending them at their

opened, we are inviting anyone and everyone

teahouse in Coffs Harbour. Do try it.

to come in and taste our delicious food and

the Food Emporium, the perfect spot to sit and relax after grabbing some groceries.

enjoy Armidale’s newest café experience. You will love seeing the local artwork on the walls and returning to new pieces as we feature different paintings each month. Located in

ARMIDALE FOOD EMPORIUM, 6:30 - 5, MONDAY TO FRIDAY; 9 - 2, SATURDAY.

9/140 MILLER STREET (02) 6772 3376 OPEN 7AM MONDAY TO FRIDAY AND 8AM SATURDAY.

TwentyFour on Moore CAESAR SALAD

Bistro on Cinders Bistro on Cinders would love to cater for your special day or function. We offer high quality food and beautiful decorations to match your theme. It could be an engagement party, a canapés style wedding reception, or just a simple reunion or birthday celebration. We would love to have the honour to cater for you and share in the momentous day. For

any enquiries or bookings, call us on (02) 6772 2828 or pop in and grab a bite to eat to sample some of the delicious food we prepare. 1/14 CINDERS LANE (BEHIND THE POST OFFICE) (02) 6772 2828 TUESDAY TO SATURDAY, 8AM - 2PM; THURS, FRI, & SAT, 5:30PM - 9PM.

Our Caesar salad is one of our most popular dishes, enjoyed throughout the year. We start by making our own Caesar dressing with subtle hints of garlic, mustard and anchovies. To this we add fresh cos lettuce, oven roasted chicken, bacon, house made croutons and freshly shaved Parmesan, topped with a soft poached egg. A favourite amongst many, it is definitely worth ordering! As with all of our meals, it

can be pre-ordered for take-away, making your work lunch just that little bit more exciting!

24 MOORE ST, ARMIDALE 0467 512 876 MONDAY - FRIDAY, 8AM - 5PM; THURSDAY - SATURDAY, 6PM - 9PM; SATURDAY, 8AM - 2PM.

New England focus. 23

TH IS

CO OL

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IRRESISTABLE

Story Time Socks

Irresistible Story Time Socks bring fashion fun to little ones. These playfully coordinated, yet mix-matched, pairs of super-soft, woven knee socks feature favourite kid themes with a different design on each sock. Girls will giggle over the likes of a unicorn and rainbow or cowgirl and horse, while boys are sure

Whether it's the teaspoon in a champagne bottle or carrots enhancing night vision - we as humans are always willing to swallow a myth or misconception wrapped in a palatable narrative.

he origin or explanation of (scrap PAPs - that could get me in trouble): these myths is often more At the waning end of the British empire, informative and insightful when about all the British could muster than the myth itself would was a few troops thirstily guarding a patch have been had it been true, of dust in India, beer was in high demand. and the same can be said of the fallacious In order for these barrels of beer to make facts ubiquitous in the journey without the beer world. I am going sour, they were almost certainly still much more heavily inoculated with some hopped than their of these inaccuracies; Pale Ale counterparts PERHAPS ONE OF THE however, two that back on the Isles. MOST PERVASIVE MYTHS I have unshackled Trust me when I say IN THE WORLD OF OATmyself from I am this is rubbish. I could SODA SURROUNDS THE happy to explain, ORIGIN OF THE INDIA PALE run you through a lest you, like I was, ALE, BECOMING MORE fascinating history of be caught with your AND MORE WIDESPREAD the modern brewery proverbial pants AS THE STYLE RISES in England; however, down next time you EXPONENTIALLY IN FOCUS are notoriously are imbibing some POPULARITY. stingy on characters! bitters (warning: Suffice it to say; there the following was a bloke named enlightenment Hodgson, a brewery will only protect named Burton, and some boats full of your proverbial pants, and not your real barrels. They didn’t use any more hops ones; I haven’t figured out how to properly in the India bound beers, which did in secure them whilst drinking yet). fact go sour, and it wasn’t until 100 years Perhaps one of the most pervasive myths in the world of oat-soda surrounds the origin of the India Pale Ale, becoming more and more widespread as the style rises exponentially in popularity. Now, I’m sure many of you have heard the story, but just in case there’s someone out there yet to India-ise their Pale Ale (Pale Ale Pansies, PAPs for short), the story goes as follows ... 24 New England focus.

later that the name “India Pale Ale” was first recorded. Congratulations, you are now inside the matrix. Next time you hear someone touting this tall tale, you have my permission to punch them in the face, skol their IPA, order yourself a double IPA, skol that, smash the glass on your head and walk out.

to wrestle with picking the pirate and parrot or a pair of goofy aliens. Story Time socks fit children 18 - 36 months and feature non-slip bottoms, making them perfect for new walkers. From Things With A Difference, Centre Mall, Armidale 6771 9668.

Baby Boomers @ the Armidale Golf Club The Armidale Golf Club is very excited to host “the Baby Boomers”, an award winning comedy and music act performing live on Friday, March 2nd.

ho’s in the Baby Boomers? “Kevin A Legend”, the man with the amazing voice is the male star of “Baby Boomers Comedy & Music Show”. His floorshow delivers the funniest, craziest comedy music impressions and parodies ever. You won’t believe your ears, with no miming or lip syncing. What sort of music do they play? There’s Rod Stewart, Mick Jagger, Elvis Presley, Joe Cocker, the Bee Gees, Luciano Pavarotti, Bryan Ferry, Willie Nelson, Julio Iglesias, John Lennon, Cat Stevens, Ozzie Osbourne and more. He might treat you to Sean Connery, Sylvester Stallone, Jack Nicholson and the odd politician for good measure! Tell us a little about the show ... You’ll see pop stars parodied, legends lampooned and idols implode! The Baby Boomers Comedy & Music Show blends fabulous Baby Boomers’ era hit songs with a cavalcade of Baby Boomers’ craziness, especially from the ‘60s and ‘70s and relishes the now “politically incorrect” humour, with Baby Boomer

stars from then and today. The older they get … The better they were! Tell us why you have decided to start having music performances at the Golf Club? The Armidale Golf Club is currently exploring options for more live entertainment, and would like to keep a few surprises for later on (perhaps another quick shear or the return of the Bowden Brothers). But we are certainly looking forward to the year to come! People can keep an eye on what’s going on by liking us on Facebook, checking our website or contacting the club. We also advertise our events through the local Tourist Information Centre and local businesses.

plug! When Friday 2nd March. Where Armidale Golf Club. Cost Dinner and show $75 / show only $49. How to Book Call 6772 5837 or via try booking: www.trybooking.com/345501 Tickets are extremely limited!

focusinterview.

ArtPrize Armidale

The Armidale Art Prize and exhibition will be held during April at the Armidale Art Gallery in the Armidale Mall. FOCUS talked to the New England Art Society President Tess Cullen about this much-anticipated annual event.

ell us about the opening of Each of the three categories will have a first this exhibition, Tess. prize of $700 and a second prize of $300. The The opening is at 6pm on environmental prize is $400 and the people’s Saturday 7th April and will be choice, $100. These prizes are made possible opened by our State Member, due to the generous support of our sponsors. Adam Marshall. Who usually enters art works for the The Art Society invites all of its members Prize? and interested members of the public to this We have entries from our member artists opening. The opening night is free of charge, and prominent New England artists. We also and refreshments are provided. attract entries from other parts of the state and What takes place at the opening? interstate. The Armidale Art Prize has always Before the opening, the judges have made been well patronised. The quality of the entries their choices and the prizes are announced for this year’s Art Prize is amidst a crowd of artists as exceptional as it has and art lovers. Most been in the past. artists long to network Is there anything to and are generally add, Tess? THE ARMIDALE ART available to discuss The Armidale Art Prize PRIZE HAS ALWAYS BEEN their works at this and Exhibition is a major WELL PATRONISED. event. The exhibition is event on the Gallery’s THE QUALITY OF THE non-acquisitive, which calendar, as are the ENTRIES FOR THIS means that all works are Armidale Photography YEAR’S ART PRIZE IS AS available for purchase. Prize and the Daphne EXCEPTIONAL AS IT HAS You mentioned Young Watercolour Prize. BEEN IN THE PAST. categories; can you tell 2017 saw over $25,000 us about these? in funds distributed to Over the years that local and regional artists the Armidale Art Prize through prize monies and has been held, we have sales. Alongside general members exhibitions added categories, and as a consequence there were 17 solo or group exhibitions held it had become a little too unwieldy. This by members. We strive to support the artists of year we have decided on a more traditional this region in a very practical way, as a not for approach to the categories in which artists profit society run by volunteers. can enter their works. The three categories If patrons can’t make the opening, then are Paintings, Works on Paper and Sculpture/ I encourage them to visit the gallery during Craft Art. We also have a people’s choice and April, as the exhibition runs through April an environmental prize that are not tied to a specific category. Every visitor to the gallery can into early May. The Gallery is open 10 'til 4 weekdays and 10 to 1 Saturdays. vote for the people’s choice. What is the prize money on offer? Thanks Tess. New England focus. 25

focuseditorial.

event

Impress at your next

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Meetings | Conferences | Private Dinners Delicious catering, attentive service & superb function spaces at The Powerhouse Armidale will ensure your event, meeting or conference is nothing less than a success. The hotel offers a range of contemporary venue options: a private dining room for 14, boardroom for 22, spacious function room for 130 & Azka Restaurant. At The Powerhouse we understand the importance of all occasions and can tailor a package to your requirements.

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overlooked. Set objectives and begin early Deciding to hold an event can be the first Communicate often step to new customers, more business or a Poor communication and lack of understanding higher profile in the community. Take time can damage even the greatest event team to set objectives, to ensure you run an event structure. Ensure the success of your event that meets and exceeds your team or business by communicating regularly with everyone goals. Objectives should be written in detail, involved. Simple email updates spelling out defining the narrow, what’s done, when, how measurable and tangible and what still needs to be results your event completed is ideal. will produce. Once Hold a run through objectives are defined, Two weeks before OBJEC TIVES SHOULD begin planning as soon the event; hold a run BE WRIT TEN IN as you possibly can. If through of the entire your event is large, you DETAIL , DEFINING event process. Organise a should realistically begin THE NARROW, meeting with your team planning it four to six MEASURABLE AND and stakeholders to walk months in advance, with through everything - from TANGIBLE RESULTS smaller events needing set up to pack down. YOUR EVENT WILL at least one month Often complications are PRODUCE. to plan. It is useful to highlighted in these run compile a checklist, through events, which which will ensure that allows enough time to all aspects of the event correct them. are considered and Follow up immediately adequately addressed in the planning stages. A post event follow up is essential and must Assign responsibilities be a part of the initial planning stages. While As you’re deciding the details, choose who the logistics may be done, it is important to be will be responsible for each step or a particular proactive in following up with attendees, be it area of focus. This is beneficial, because when on the phone or over email to say thank you, a member of the team is solely responsible ask for feedback or demonstrate the success of for something, they will be much more clued the event. into the smaller details that can often be

Armidale Autumn Festival

15 - 18 March 2018

Program

New England focus. 27

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme

St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day!

15 - 18 March 2018

Thur 15

Thu 15

Fri 16

Carnival & Live entertainment night

Live Music

Twilight Festival

Markets, amusement rides & Live music in Curtis & Civic Park from 5pm

Live music by The Bopcatz, The Foundlings & The Gravy from 5pm

Markets and Amusement rides in Curtis & Civic Park from 5pm

Sat 17

Armidale City Band Pancake Breakfast

Campus City Canter

Pipe Bands

7am at Civic Park

At the bike track from SportUNE to Civic Park starting from 8am

At the stage in the Armidale Mall from 11am

Sat 17

Armidale Regional Council Autumn Festival Grand Parade

Autumn Festival Celebrations in the Park

Free Facepainting & activities for the kids

Following the parade

In Civic park from 2-5pm

From 12.30pm in the CBD

Sat 17

Australian Dance Performance

Prizes

Classic Car Show

Civic Park at 2.30pm

Saturday afternoon in the creeklands

Sat 17

Sat 17 / Sun 18

Live music

Fireworks

Quilting & Needlework Exhibition

Irish music by The Tri in Civic Park from 5pm - 6pm

At 9pm in Civic Park

Legacy House, Faulkner St Opens at 9am

Sun 18

Autumn Festival Criterion Bike Race

Motor Extravaganza

Farmers Markets

In the CBD from 8am-12pm

28 New England focus.

For the best band and best float at 3pm in Civic Park

Armidale Racecourse, gates open at 10am, presentation at 2.30pm

At Civic Park from 8am

What’s On Thursday March 15

Carnival & live entertainment night

5.00pm - 10.00pm 5.00pm - 10.00pm

Amusement rides Live bands > The Bopcatz > The Foundlings > The Gravy

Friday March 16

Markets & amusement rides

5.00pm - 10.00pm 5.00pm - 10.00pm

Amusement rides New England Conservatorium Of Music (NECOM) arts & culture performances

Civic & Curtis Parks Civic Park

Breakfast with the Armidale City Band Campus to City Canter - Bus departs the VIC at 7.05am & 7.35am for runners Mass Pipe Bands - All the Pipe Bands join forces to play in the Mall by the old courthouse

Civic Park

Street Parade - The route winds its way through the CBD (see map next page)

CBD Civic Park

Civic Civic Civic Civic Civic

& & & & &

Curtis Curtis Curtis Curtis Curtis

Parks Parks Parks Parks Parks

Saturday March 17 7.00am 8.00am 11.00am 12.30pm

UNE to Civic Park Mall Stage

2.00pm

NECOM Orchestra performance

2.00 - 6.00pm 2.30pm 3.00pm 3.00pm

Free facepainting art by Trudy Smith Australian Dance Enterprises performance Presentation of the best band award and best float prize

Civic Park

Massed pipe bands and highland dancers

3.15pm - 3.30pm 3.30pm 4.30pm 5.00pm - 6.00pm

Quintet competition Matt Nolan plays Celtic music on acoustic guitar A telling of Irish tales by Brian Neville accompanied by Celtic music Live Irish music by The Tri Live entertainment

Civic Civic Civic Civic Civic

7.00pm - 8.00pm 8.00pm 9.00pm

Civic Park Civic Park Park Park Park Park Park

Originals band ‘Tracers’ perform live before touring overseas Fireworks

Civic & Curtis Park Civic Park Civic & Curtis Parks

12.00pm 8.00am

Bike criterium Farmers Markets & car boot sale

CBD Civic Park

10.00am

Motor Extravaganza

Armidale Racecourse

Sunday March 18

Grand Parade

Sat 17•12.30•through the CBD New England focus. 29

KEY

ARADE DALE AUTUMN FESTIVAL PARADE FESTIVAL PARADE & FUN PARADE DAY IN THE PARK SATURDAY, 14 MARCH 2015

Civic Park and Curtis Park

Canter Starts at the Sport UNE fields th and t h follows the bike track

MARCH 2014

Jess ie St

Dan gar St

Harris Park

Beardy Street Beardy Street

Kirkw ood St ek Dumaresq Cre

Lane Cinders Lane

Dum ares q St

Canter Finish

Ex Services Club

Civic Park

P P

Centro Shopping Centre

Toilet Toilet Central

Armidale Plaza Shopping Centre

Grand Parade Start

Central Park Park

Rusd en S t

Police Moo re St

Jess ie St

Beard y St

Entry for floats No’s 1for to floats 7 Entry from 11:00am 11:00am from to 11:45am 11:45am to

Criterion Start/Finish

2015 PARADE ROUTE 2014 PARADE ROUTE Assembling Area

Bowling Club

Mall Stage Royal

Beard y St

White Bull

Dan gar St < Ta mwo rth

CAMPUS CITY CANTER

Wicklow

Coles

Jess ie St

Barninstructions. your for Noteletter for entry this area, please see eyto St your letter for instructions.

Rologas Fields

Imp ies

Cind ers L ane

Rusd en S t

Allin gham St

Assembling Note for entryArea to this area, please see

THE MAL L

New ie

Mark ham St

A A

Curtis Park Visit or In form atio Cen n tre Dum ares q St

Mars h St

Rusden Street

Tin gco mb eL ane

Central Park

Nau ght en A ve

St K ilda

Rusd en S t

Barn ey S t

armidale cycling club presents

Brow n St

Taylo r St

P P

Beard y SCinders t

The Regional Australia Bank Wate rfall Way >

Brow n St

Jess ie St

Allin gha mS t

AUTUMN FESTIVAL CRITERIUM Barn ey S t

Dou glas St

East Mall East Mall

Taylo r St

Grand Parade Finish

Toilet The Mall The Mall

Mars h St

P P

Guyra >

Moore St MooreToilet St

Faulk ner St

Dum ares q St

Mars h St

A A Rusden Street

Kirkw ood St

Faulk ner St

P P

Don nelly St

Tatt ersa lls

Toilet Toilet

Mark ham St

or floats 0 floats to 2 5 or 1:15am 1:15am 5am 5am

P P

Armidale K-Mart Plaza P

The Canter Route Jeffre y St

Faulk ner St

___________ Dumaresq Street ___________ Dumaresq Street P P Swimming P Pool P Swimming Pool Central Centro

Civic Civic Park Park

The Criterion Route

Rologas Rologas Fields Fields

Curtis Curtis Park Park

Toilet Toilet

Harris Park Harris Park

TAF E TAF E

The Grand Parade Route

Mark ham St

TURDAY, 15

The Mall Stage

Armidale Racecourse

Armidale’s own ‘City to Surf’ Sport UNE to the city: 5km

exciting CBD Circuit

SUNDAY 18TH MARCH 2018 Details and Registration www.armidalecyclingclub.org/afc

facebook.com/ArmidaleAthletics • www.armidaleathletics.org.au

30 New England focus.

@armidale regionalcouncil

@ARC2350

Proudly sponsored by:

This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme

St Patrickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day!

15 - 18 March 2018

Thur 15

Thu 15

Fri 16

Carnival & Live entertainment night

Live Music

Twilight Festival

Markets, amusement rides & Live music in Curtis & Civic Park from 5pm

Live music by The Bopcatz, The Foundlings & The Gravy from 5pm

Markets and Amusement rides in Curtis & Civic Park from 5pm

Sat 17

Armidale City Band Pancake Breakfast

Campus City Canter

Pipe Bands

7am at Civic Park

At the bike track from SportUNE to Civic Park starting from 8am

At the stage in the Armidale Mall from 11am

Sat 17

Armidale Regional Council Autumn Festival Grand Parade

Autumn Festival Celebrations in the Park

Free Facepainting & activities for the kids

Following the parade

In Civic park from 2-5pm

From 12.30pm in the CBD

Sat 17

Australian Dance Performance

Prizes

Classic Car Show

Civic Park at 2.30pm

Saturday afternoon in the creeklands

Sat 17

Sat 17 / Sun 18

Live music

Fireworks

Quilting & Needlework Exhibition

Irish music by The Tri in Civic Park from 5pm - 6pm

At 9pm in Civic Park

Legacy House, Faulkner St Opens at 9am

Sun 18

Autumn Festival Criterion Bike Race

Motor Extravaganza

Farmers Markets

In the CBD from 8am-12pm

28 New England focus.

For the best band and best float at 3pm in Civic Park

Armidale Racecourse, gates open at 10am, presentation at 2.30pm

At Civic Park from 8am

What’s On Thursday March 15

Carnival & live entertainment night

5.00pm - 10.00pm 5.00pm - 10.00pm

Amusement rides Live bands > The Bopcatz > The Foundlings > The Gravy

Friday March 16

Markets & amusement rides

5.00pm - 10.00pm 5.00pm - 10.00pm

Amusement rides New England Conservatorium Of Music (NECOM) arts & culture performances

Civic & Curtis Parks Civic Park

Civic Park

Street Parade - The route winds its way through the CBD (see map next page)

CBD Civic Park

Civic Civic Civic Civic Civic

& & & & &

Curtis Curtis Curtis Curtis Curtis

Parks Parks Parks Parks Parks

Saturday March 17 7.00am 8.00am 11.00am 12.30pm

UNE to Civic Park Mall Stage

2.00pm

NECOM Orchestra performance

2.00 - 6.00pm 2.30pm 3.00pm 3.00pm

Free facepainting art by Trudy Smith Australian Dance Enterprises performance Presentation of the best band award and best float prize

Civic Park

Massed pipe bands and highland dancers

3.15pm - 3.30pm 3.30pm 4.30pm 5.00pm - 6.00pm

Quintet competition Matt Nolan plays Celtic music on acoustic guitar A telling of Irish tales by Brian Neville accompanied by Celtic music Live Irish music by The Tri Live entertainment

Civic Civic Civic Civic Civic

7.00pm - 8.00pm 8.00pm 9.00pm

Civic Park Civic Park Park Park Park Park Park

Originals band ‘Tracers’ perform live before touring overseas Fireworks

Civic & Curtis Park Civic Park Civic & Curtis Parks

12.00pm 8.00am

Bike criterium Farmers Markets & car boot sale

CBD Civic Park

10.00am

Motor Extravaganza

Armidale Racecourse

Sunday March 18

Grand Parade

Sat 17•12.30•through the CBD New England focus. 29

KEY

ARADE DALE AUTUMN FESTIVAL PARADE FESTIVAL PARADE & FUN PARADE DAY IN THE PARK SATURDAY, 14 MARCH 2015

Civic Park and Curtis Park

Canter Starts at the Sport UNE fields th and t h follows the bike track

MARCH 2014

Jess ie St

Dan gar St

Harris Park

Beardy Street Beardy Street

Kirkw ood St ek Dumaresq Cre

Lane Cinders Lane

Dum ares q St

Canter Finish

Ex Services Club

Civic Park

P P

Centro Shopping Centre

Toilet Toilet Central

Armidale Plaza Shopping Centre

Grand Parade Start

Central Park Park

Rusd en S t

Police Moo re St

Jess ie St

Beard y St

Entry for floats No’s 1for to floats 7 Entry from 11:00am 11:00am from to 11:45am 11:45am to

Criterion Start/Finish

2015 PARADE ROUTE 2014 PARADE ROUTE Assembling Area

Bowling Club

Mall Stage Royal

Beard y St

White Bull

Dan gar St < Ta mwo rth

CAMPUS CITY CANTER

Wicklow

Coles

Jess ie St

Barninstructions. your for Noteletter for entry this area, please see eyto St your letter for instructions.

Rologas Fields

Imp ies

Cind ers L ane

Rusd en S t

Allin gham St

Assembling Note for entryArea to this area, please see

THE MAL L

New ie

Mark ham St

A A

Curtis Park Visit or In form atio Cen n tre Dum ares q St

Mars h St

Rusden Street

Tin gco mb eL ane

Central Park

Nau ght en A ve

St K ilda

Rusd en S t

Barn ey S t

armidale cycling club presents

Brow n St

Taylo r St

P P

Beard y SCinders t

The Regional Australia Bank Wate rfall Way >

Brow n St

Jess ie St

Allin gha mS t

AUTUMN FESTIVAL CRITERIUM Barn ey S t

Dou glas St

East Mall East Mall

Taylo r St

Grand Parade Finish

Toilet The Mall The Mall

Mars h St

P P

Guyra >

Moore St MooreToilet St

Faulk ner St

Dum ares q St

Mars h St

A A Rusden Street

Kirkw ood St

Faulk ner St

P P

Don nelly St

Tatt ersa lls

Toilet Toilet

Mark ham St

or floats 0 floats to 2 5 or 1:15am 1:15am 5am 5am

P P

Armidale K-Mart Plaza P

The Canter Route Jeffre y St

Faulk ner St

___________ Dumaresq Street ___________ Dumaresq Street P P Swimming P Pool P Swimming Pool Central Centro

Civic Civic Park Park

The Criterion Route

Rologas Rologas Fields Fields

Curtis Curtis Park Park

Toilet Toilet

Harris Park Harris Park

TAF E TAF E

The Grand Parade Route

Mark ham St

TURDAY, 15

The Mall Stage

Armidale Racecourse

Armidale’s own ‘City to Surf’ Sport UNE to the city: 5km

exciting CBD Circuit

SUNDAY 18TH MARCH 2018 Details and Registration www.armidalecyclingclub.org/afc

facebook.com/ArmidaleAthletics • www.armidaleathletics.org.au

30 New England focus.

@armidale regionalcouncil

@ARC2350

Proudly sponsored by:

focushealth

Health Wellbeing and

Care with Conﬁdence at Cooinda. Located on St Andrews Avenue, Armidale, Cooinda provides centre-based respite for both children and adults living with a disability. The respite centre has been part of the community for around 30 years. With a flexible approach, Cooinda is proud of its history of supporting families in meeting their needs. The centre provides accommodation for people with a disability to stay for a day, overnight, a weekend, a holiday, or for a longer period (four weeks or more). “We have five bedrooms, so each customer has their own private room. Our staff are highly skilled, friendly, and are there to care for

our customers 24 hours a day and seven days a week,” says Ashley Hall, (Acting) Team Leader at House with No Steps - the disability service provider who operates the respite centre. “At House with No Steps we promote independence with our customers, and we connect those we support within their community, ensuring they can live the lives they want to lead.” Join the extended family at Cooinda, a special place that provides tailored, personalised care to both customers and their loved ones. Give the centre a call any time to discuss your needs: 6772 7601.

2018 REGISTRATIONS OPEN NOW - RIDE 26 - 28 APRIL 2017 was one of the best yet, so let’s make 2018 even better. The Tour De Rocks event has surpassed all expectations and is now recognised as the best regional charitable cycling event in NSW, with 385 participants cycling and supporting 254 km, climbing over 3,000 metres through some of Australia’s most beautiful scenery.

our De Rocks has now raised in excess of $1.3 million dollars for cancer awareness, prevention and cure in our regional community. Tour De Rocks also makes a considerable contribution to medical research that provides better outcomes for those diagnosed with cancer and eventually a cure. Tour De Rocks fund a range of regional organisations such as Can Assist, Camp Quality, ACAF Fund, Armidale, Coffs and Port Macquarie Cancer Centres, local organisations such as Cancer Awareness Centre, Wig Libraries, and a number of local cancer support groups. Our three day Quest for Life workshop for cancer patients and their carers provides respite, understanding and fellowship that would not be available without Tour De Rocks. The gratitude shown by the recipients of the funds is humbling, emotional and uplifting. It is the support of a large group of people, all volunteers, that allows Tour De Rocks to “run on the smell of an oily rag” and ensures that every dollar available goes to assist a regional person in need. The generosity of our regional communities to provide either assets, services or their time at no cost is second to none. The supporters that come along to assist all riders and the organising committee cannot be underestimated, as without these people, the Tour De Rocks could not achieve what it does. It is not only the fact that Tour De Rocks raises

much needed funds to assist those less fortunate, but for those who choose to come along on the Tour De Rocks journey it provides a personal sense of achievement, the ability to meet new friends, cement existing friendships and work as a team of 385 people - not to mention the fact that you are also getting fitter and hopefully lead a happier and better quality of life after the ride. Tour De Rocks is an experience shared by likeminded people, and above all is fun. Yes, hard work at times - but still fun! It does take time and commitment, which is easy as compared to those suffering through a cancer diagnosis. From the Board of Tour De Rocks and committee members, thank you to all for keeping the dream alive. A feature this year is the generous offer to hold a Motor Extravaganza by a group of local car enthusiasts. This will take place on Sunday 18th March and form part of the Armidale Autumn Festival. All proceeds will go to Tour De Rocks. This is a family event, and gates will open at 10am. The organisers expect there will be over five million dollars worth of classic cars, motorbikes, vintage machinery, hot rods and muscle cars on display from all over NSW. There will also be a jumping castle, BBQ, live bands and entertainment. So bring the whole family; there will be something for everyone - not just motor enthusiasts. New England focus. 31

focusinterview.

Armidale Netball

The Armidale District Netball Association has reached a milestone this year - it’s now 35 years strong! FOCUS caught up with Sophie Sozou, who told us all about the many years of history.

ell us about netball in Armidale ... Netball started in Armidale in 1983 on grass courts at Bruce Browning Oval. Due to numbers, our grounds were moved to Lynches Road Complex, where we shared with cricket. Over the past 35 years we have established a club House, 10 hard courts, storage sheds and a play space. Armidale District Netball Association (ADNA) are a volunteer run organisation, aiming to cater and be inclusive to all members of our community. We encourage all to participate in our competitions and aim to have as many as possible of these competitions running year round. Our winter competition starts 5th May 2018, with nominations closing on 9th April 2018. Through our many projects, we have endeavoured to be inclusive of the community as a whole. In our most recent, the Lynches Rd Play Space, we have incorporated an area that not only appeals and is useful to our netball community, but is used daily by many groups or individuals unrelated to netball. Into the future we want to continue to build strong community ties, working for the common good of all “walks of life”, whilst encouraging and enjoying our netball. Netball is a fabulous game, with Australia currently holding the title of world champions. We look forward to being a part of building the next generation of netballers and helping to further bring sport into the lives of those in our community. How many ladies take part in our region? During the 2017 competition, ADNA

32 New England focus.

had 634 players registered from the ages of four to 52. Our association covers the following districts: Armidale, Uralla, Walcha, Guyra and the surrounds. We have even had players travel from Tamworth and Glen Innes to play in our competition. We had nine divisions in last year’s competition, two primary divisions, four high school divisions and three senior divisions. NetSetGo is for children aged three - 10 years old and is split into three grades; Net three - five year, Set six - eight years and Go nine 10 years. NetSetGo is a fun, safe, social and active program for girls and boys aged four to 10. It gives children of all abilities a positive introduction to netball and teaches them the basic skills of the sport. Dividing the children into three tiers means that they will learn at a pace that’s right for their age and ability. Each week NetSetGo players take part in skill based activities, minor games, and modified matches. How did you get into netball? I started playing netball for the Ben Venue Blue Belles when I was six years of age. The only position I would play was Goal Shooter. Oh, how that has changed! From a young age all I wanted to do was play netball like Mum. Saturday was always my favourite day of the week, because it meant I got to go to the courts and watch Mum play and try and shoot the ball through the ring. Not much has changed; I still love Saturdays, as it means I get to go to netball. The only thing that is different is I don’t play Goal Shooter and I get to play, umpire and coach, instead of shooting goals. What's your favourite position, and tell us what that position does? My favourite positions are Centre (C)

or Wing Attack (WA). The Centre position links the play from the defence third to the goal third and plays an important role in both attack and defence. Centre is allowed to move over the whole court, except for the goal circles. The main task of the Wing Attack is to deliver the ball to the Goal Attack/Shooter using a number of attacking moves. A Wing Attack can only move around the goal third and centre third but cannot go into the goal circles. If you have no experience, can you come and join in and additionally, if you can't play every match - is that OK? Armidale Netball is always welcoming new players, regardless of whether you have played netball before or not. Don't ever feel you are too old or too young to play netball. We cater for all ages and abilities. We offer competitive and social divisions, which allows everyone the opportunity to play in a division that suits their abilities and needs. As a player you don't have to play every weekend, but as it is a team sport, it is encouraged that you try to play most games. To qualify for the finals at the end of the season all players must have played a minimum of three games during the season. If you want to get involved in netball but you don’t want to play, we are always looking for umpires. Armidale have some of the best umpires in the region and are constantly building on this with our excellent umpire development program, which was started by Mrs Jayne Bourke. If you are an individual player and are looking for a team, or you would like more information please contact info@ adna.net.au Thanks Sophie.

focusinterview. with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

March 2018

SCORPIO.

AQUARIUS.

TAURUS.

LEO.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

There is much comfort for you to be found in relationships at present. Be especially kind to yourself. Your support is vital to your success. Keep bouncing ideas off others, as you will see the benefits of this. New friendships can be anticipated. Citrine attracts abundance.

If you are feeling unsupported, identify the emotion you are craving then visualise it in the pit of your stomach, close your eyes and breathe into it to activate it in your body. You will discover how strong and independent you already are. Kunzite and Hiddenite both aid in bringing a balance of joy and gratitude.

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

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

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

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

VIRGO.

GEMINI.

PISCES.

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You are vulnerable at taking things too personally at present. Disconnect from this morbid practice, as it dwindles your self esteem. Smile at your reflection to raise your self worth and observe the positive changes. Don’t be afraid of change. Danburite will give you confidence in your decisions.

SAGITTARIUS.

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

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

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

ARIES.

CANCER.

LIBRA.

CAPRICORN.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

This month will benefit you by prioritising that special person in your life. Plan some impromptu adventure and rediscover how and why you fell in love. Conflict will clash with your vibration, so be disciplined and remain positive. Azeztulite helps us to explore alternate realities with comfort.

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

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

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

I am

YOU

could be

we are

PLC ARMIDALE

ALL GIRLS PRE-KINDER TO YEAR 12. BOARDING FROM YEAR 5.

plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au 02 6770 1700 Educating successful women of tomorrow in a Christian environment

IN ALLIANCE WITH PLC SYDNEY New England focus. 33

34 New England focus.

L I Z Maertin D E B O R A H Hunter T A N Y A Scales W O R K H E A LT H A U S T R A L I A

Contact details: WorkHealth Australia 1300 387 776 www.workhealthaustralia.com.au

WorkHealth Australia was formed when physiotherapist Deborah Hunter identified a need for local, highly qualified workplace assessment, risk prevention and wellbeing services. And in 2017, after a rigorous accreditation process in the NSW Workers Compensation system, WorkHealth Australia became a Workplace Rehabilitation Provider. Deborah is a multi-award-winning business woman who has represented Armidale business at State Level for two years running, having won the New England North West Business Chamber Awards in 2016 for Excellence in Small Business, and in 2017 as Business Leader of the Year. She was also awarded New England Enterprising Woman of the Year in the 2017 Armidale Small Business Awards. Deborah’s personal and professional philosophy is to help people move better for life. Her business growth has been built on offering prevention and education, rather than solely providing treatment services. Liz Maertin is a highly experienced physiotherapist of more than 30 years, with 15 years as a Rehabilitation Consultant/Senior Rehabilitation Consultant in workplace rehabilitation. As physiotherapists, both Deborah and Liz were seeing a lot of preventable injuries and conditions occurring in the workplace. From this,

the concept of WorkHealth Australia was born. They are joined by Operations Manager, Tanya Scales. WorkHealth Australia’s focus is on prevention education and worker wellbeing. Work health wellness programs have been shown to decrease absenteeism by 25% and Workers Compensation claims by 40%, saving $5.81 for every dollar invested in wellness programs. WorkHealth Australia helps business improve their bottom line by reducing business risk and insurance costs and improving employee productivity. They offer practical services and solutions, including: manual task risk management and worksite assessments; manual task training; preventative workstation and workplace ergonomics; physiotherapy screening and advice, car ergonomics; workplace wellness programs and pre-employment services. When there is a workplace injury, employers are entitled to choose their Workplace Rehabilitation Provider, and as the only accredited workplace rehabilitation provider currently headquartered in the New England, WorkHealth Australia allows regionally-based business to be supported by highly qualified local staff who not only understand the needs of regional business, but are part of the community they look after.

PATRIS FIELD PERRY HOMES

Patris Field is a New Home Consultant for Perry Homes. Patris will aid clients in finding the right home design that suits their needs, lifestyle and budget. FOCUS grabbed a coffee with Patris to find out more …

escribe how you got started in your business? I’ve always had a passion for interior design and building. I like analysing space, looking at flow and visualising the end product. I’m a firm believer that you should love your job, and being a New Home Consultant for Perry Homes allows me to use my passion and skillset to help my clients realise their dream home. How has your business evolved since it began? New home building figures have increased. Armidale has continued to see growth throughout the last year, and Perry Homes’ presence in Armidale has grown with it. We now have many clients who are committed to building one of our beautiful homes right here in Armidale. Perry Homes invests a lot of time in researching what our clients want, and we are constantly reviewing our portfolio of home designs and products to ensure that our homes are on trend. That, coupled with our commitment to quality and our reputation as a reliable builder, continues to encourage people to choose our services. What are some of the skills required for someone in your position? As a New Home Consultant, it is important to have a broad knowledge of all things building. The client will have many questions about all aspects of the process, from finance, to building design, to paint colours! So, it is important to be that person with the answers. I have design skills that help the client with the layout and 36 New England focus.

functionality of the home, as well as experience in interior design for the finer details of the home. It’s also my job to keep up to date with Council legislation, building practices, and of course - the latest design trends! What is your greatest achievement? Contributing to Armidale as a town, and as a place to call home. I love driving around town, and seeing the homes that I have helped create and having the knowledge that I have contributed to the landscape of Armidale. What is your business’ greatest asset? The fact that we are a reliable, debt-free family business. Our warranty insurances aren’t capped like many other builders. Subsequently, there are no wait times on site starts, and our ordering and scheduling timelines are streamlined. Also, we understand that designing a home is a personal experience and want our clients to have exactly what they want; that’s why we are happy to alter our floorplans or even custom design a home for them. How do you measure success in your business? Always by the happiness of my clients. If they are happy with the experience, my service, and the overall product then the project is a success! How will you embrace change in 2018? The building industry is always changing, with new products and materials coming to the market, legislation updates, and new technology. In 2018 we will continue to examine our methods, products and materials to ensure that we are always offering the very best service to our clients. We are also committed to expanding our plan portfolio, so we will have even more to offer in 2018. What business leaders do you look up to? I am always encouraged to see local business leaders

succeeding. Why are local businesses so important to you? As a community, it is important that we acknowledge and support our home-grown businesses to keep our local industry growing. Perry Homes supports a large network of local trades, who deliver fantastic service and products. They know the New England area well and also call it home. When someone is investing in something as significant as a home, they want to know that the people building it can be trusted, and can be called upon again, and you get that reassurance with Perry Homes and our chosen trades. Since opening the display home, what has been the most important thing to you as a local business? Understanding the region. What works in other areas doesn’t mean it will work here. It’s important to be a part of the community that you are servicing, in order to provide an understanding of the wants and needs of locals. What are some challenges that the industry has faced, and how have you overcome these? I think the biggest challenge for the industry is overcoming the misconception that building a home is a stressful experience. We pride ourselves on making the process stress-free and fun. Building a new home should be exciting, where a client is able to choose exactly what they want and leave it up to us to make it happen! I can confidently say that Perry Homes does just that. Thanks Patris. Come and speak with Patris at the Perry Homes display at 1 McArthur Close, Armidale. The display is open Monday and Friday, 10am to 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday, 10am to 3pm; or call 0499 431 585.

Quality homes. Exceptional value. PROUDLY SUPPORTING A NETWORK OF LOCAL TRADESPEOPLE

Upgrade to a COLORBOND Roof and Smartstone Kitchen Benchtop for only $1,799* Creating your dream home couldn’t be easier when you build with Perry Homes, and for a limited time, we’re oﬀering a COLORBOND roof and 20mm thick Smartstone kitchen benchtop for only $1,799*. With over 25 years’ experience, and multiple awards, we know what it takes to create beautiful living spaces and have the buying power to build a home you’ll love at a price you’ll love too. Select from over 50 home designs and 150 ﬂoorplans or we can custom design your perfect home.

Visit our stunning display home today 1 McArthur Close, The Foothills Estate, Armidale Open Monday and Friday 10am - 5pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am - 3pm

Contact our new home consultant Patris Field on 0499 431 585 or (02) 9045 8802 patris.field@perryhomes.com.au perryhomes.com.au 27558

*Terms and conditions apply, see website for details

QBCC Act Lic. No. 718748. NSW Lic. No. 110970C

New England focus. 37

focusinterview.

COUNTRY Women’s ASSOCIATION

The Country Women’s Association of NSW has helped touch the hearts of communities over the years. This year they celebrate their 96th annual conference, with Armidale chosen for the event. With over 800 members attending last year’s event on the Central Coast, we are looking forward to this year’s event.

emind us of how the CWA of NSW began and how it has evolved over the years? Isolation and a lack of health facilities were the triggers for the formation of the Country Women’s Association in 1922, and in the 96 years since, the organisation has evolved into a powerful voice for rural and regional communities. Within the first year, the association had gone from strength to strength, with the resourcefulness and determination of its members achieving great things: baby health care centres, funding for bush nurses, the building and staffing of maternity wards, hospitals, schools, rest homes, and holiday getaways for isolated country families.

At a more local level, branch members work hard in their communities as volunteers and raise valuable funds for the likes of grants and scholarship programs. The increasingly multicultural face of our state is also reflected in the CWA of NSW, with members today from dozens of different cultural backgrounds and younger members joining the organisation in growing numbers; this focus important if the organisation is to continue to thrive in the decades to come.

The efforts of the CWA of NSW members have continued to fuel and inspire the growth and achievements of the organisation as a whole, and today 400 branches - comprising nearly 7,000 members - are a reflection of its ongoing relevance.

Members are often among the first to volunteer to help with community events and special projects and are at the forefront of assistance efforts when the worst strikes rural and regional communities.

The CWA of NSW has positioned itself as a prominent lobby group on a raft of issues impacting local communities, willing to engage officials at the highest level of government. 38 New England focus.

What support does the CWA give to the community? CWA of NSW members work tirelessly to raise funds for education grants, disaster relief assistance and funding for medical research projects, as well as lending their support to international aid efforts.

Branches also remain important sources of support and friendship for members - as they were back in 1922 - reducing the isolation that can be felt in even large localities, and providing an important social outlet for women

of all ages and backgrounds. Tell us about your upcoming 96th annual conference to be held in Armidale? Our annual conference is always one of the biggest events on our calendar, where members come together from across the state to address the issues our membership has highlighted as important to their local communities. Each CWA group - of which there are 30 around NSW - puts forward motions from which a selection are chosen to be debated at the conference. It’s an exciting time, as each motion is presented and some significant outcomes arise from each conference. At last year’s event, more than 800 members converged on the Central Coast to take part, considering issues from enhanced weather radar coverage for western NSW and the establishment of a cardiac bus service for remote areas of the state, to tighter restrictions around foreign land ownership and online gambling. The conference is also a chance to hear from a range of guest speakers, and an opportunity to present a host of awards from cooking and handicrafts, through to the branch that welcomed the most new members in the previous calendar year.

We know this year’s delegates will love Armidale as a venue, a regional city with a rich history and exciting future, and with so much more to explore only a stone’s throw away. How can the public become involved with the CWA of NSW? CWA of NSW always welcomes new members, so women who are interested in becoming involved should contact their local branch, which can be found on the website at cwaofnsw.org.au Members of the public can support the work of the CWA by contributing to the fundraising efforts of their local branch or donating on the website. Tell us more about the New England/ Northern Tablelands Group? We have branches in many local towns and communities in the New England. There is something to suit everyone and many areas also have evening branches as a more flexible meeting time option. The branches in this local area are similar to the branches across the state in that they are very focused on helping their local community, friendship and networking and advocating on issues that they see as needing attention. Thanks everyone.

TG’S CHILDCARE GENERAL MANAGER

GAYLE KEE Award-winning TG’s Child Care and Preschool celebrates its 20th anniversary this year with a bang. We speak to Gayle Kee, General Manager at TG’s Child Care and Preschool about how TG’s works its magic to encourage children to love learning in an environment based on love, trust, respect, compassion and endless fun!

RAISING A CHILD TO PLAY, LEARN AND LIVE

G’s won Excellence in Business and Employer of Choice at the Armidale Regional and Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards last year. We ask Gayle where she goes from here ...

We have plans to open more early learning centres and bring TG’s unique culture to Play-Learn-Live life across regional New South Wales! We have Diane Gray of Change Play Consulting to engage our business management. Veronica Lind of Vermilion Pinstripes will lead marketing to develop exciting and fun activities for our new brand! 2018 will see TG’s investing a lot more in the future of children and the families in our communities. TG’s gives children an authentic, well-rounded education that is so joyful and fun, everyone in the family wants to join in! Roll up your sleeves and get ready for some mural painting or exploring in our award-winning gardens!

What makes TG’s such a beautiful place for all? We now have 106 educators, and only three are men! They are our gifts! They exemplify our three Foundation Stones - Building Relationships, Understanding our Gifts and Encouraging Collective Thinking. We are firm believers in empowering women. Educators at TG’s embody gifts that complement and support each other to make TG’s the special place it is. Several trainees and early childhood teachers have won national awards, while others have been given management and leadership positions. Cassie Cooper is our Centre Manager at Armidale - she is at the helm of the intricate task of finding the perfect match - assigning the right educators to each group of children, to create a dynamic and fun atmosphere to help the children reach their potential and inspire the educators to have a joyous time!

What makes TG’s so special is having even our longtime educators go the extra mile every single day. Meg BarndenHyde is Centre Manager at Uralla, and even after a decade with TG’s she continues to give 110% at work. It is truly gratifying to see the educators I have trained go on to guide other educators on their learning journeys. It is a beautiful never ending cycle of inspiration we pass on to each generation. TG’s is a beautiful place because of the people in it, and they are part of the TG’s Family. By lovingly empowering educators, the children and families are nurtured and inspired. This joy naturally extends to the community. It is a wonderful place to live in when you see how the efforts you seed are blossoming and enriching the lives of everyone around. TG’s is taking registrations for 2018 and 2019. http://qoo.ly/jv7us

New England focus. 39

2018 is a massive year for Little Fish, with new classes coming in March, ever expanding numbers across all classes, dance ﬁlms and a major performance project we cannot wait to announce soon!

T A N Y A Bagster

M E L I S S A Killen

R O B E R T S & M O R R OW PA R T N E R

Roberts & Morrow is a progressive Chartered Accounting Practice, proudly supporting the growth and development of women in business. With over 120 staff and partners, our female staff make up 65% of our people. We are passionate about providing the right training and mentoring to women in the firm to see them thrive and take up roles as mentors and leaders. One such leader is Roberts & Morrow partner Tanya Bagster. Tanya is based in our Tamworth office, but regularly visits Armidale in her capacity as one of four partners on the Executive Committee for the firm. In this role, Tanya provides her knowledge and expertise in shaping the strategic direction of the business, its people and the future of the practice. In addition to Tanya’s role as partner in the Tamworth office, she also

heads the Narrabri office, travelling out to the area each week to meet with clients. A local Narrabri girl originally, Tanya is passionate about offering quality business advice and services to the North West region. Wife and mum to two girls, Tanya is focused on promoting a balanced career for women and the opportunity for flexible working arrangements to assist working parents. Roberts & Morrow offers specialist services, providing our staff with opportunities in many areas across the firm, including: accounting, audit, superannuation, financial planning and tax and estate planning. We are always interested in hearing from talented and passionate individuals eager to join our team. Visit our website rm.net.au or email hr@rm.net.au to find out more about our career opportunities.

Promoting the development of talented and passionate women

rm.net.au

40 New England focus.

•

enquiries@rm.net.au

S A R A H Watson

LITTLE FISH ARTISTS

What is Little Fish Entertainment? Little Fish Entertainment is an independent film, photography, dance and theatre production company. The Little Fish team offers weekly classes in drama and dance for all ages and experiences! We focus on projects that are distinctive and thought provoking, that allow us the opportunity to foster young, local talent. How long has Little Fish been running, and how did it all start? Little Fish Entertainment officially set up shop in January 2017, when Sarah Watson and Melissa Killen were approached by David Curtis to create a commissioned dance film to open the 2017 EcoArts Australis annual conference at the University of New England. The founding members of Little Fish have been working together on local arts projects since 2012, and it felt like

a natural progression to build upon this platform and create opportunities to develop young talent in Armidale. Who is Little Fish - and where to from here? Sarah Watson, Artistic Director and owner of Little Fish Entertainment studied performance and film while working alongside some of Australia’s most acclaimed arts practitioners, before returning home to Armidale. With a career that boasts over twenty years of experience in the industry, Melissa Killen is an integral part of the Little Fish team, along with triple-threat up-and-coming-breakthrough-performers Duncan Rhodes Carmichael and Amy Roff. 2018 is a massive year for Little Fish, with new classes coming in March, ever expanding numbers across all classes, dance films and a major performance project we cannot wait to announce soon!

Uphillschaefer are hardworking professionals, dedicated to providing outstanding service with our highly qualiﬁed team. We strive to make every experience the best experience.

J A N E Hannon

UPHILLSCHAEFER R E A L E S TAT E

THINGS WITH A DIFFERENCE

J A N E T Cooke RICHARDSON & WRENCH CO-OWNER

Uphillschaefer are a local real estate team working for the community. Our company of 12 consists of 11 women in business, including two directors, four administration and five property managers.

What is unique about your business? I think Things With A Difference has it all. We have diverse, unique, quirky and quality gifts, homewares and furniture indoor and outdoor. We cater for all ages, from newborn to the 100 “young” year old.

Janet has been taking care of her real estate clients for almost 10 years now. She and Peter work together as team and bring different but complementary skills to the table. Their latest testimonial explains:

Gail Schaefer and Julie Schaefer lead the team (along with their business partner, Shane Kliendienst) and are the longest serving female real estate agents in Armidale. Women business leaders inspire other women to pursue their dreams; they also find it easier to balance business and family outside the traditional corporate world. Tastes and trends will always change, and as women we definitely understand the ups and downs of our dynamic real estate market. The whole team are great to work with. We are all great friends, which makes our job a lot easier. The majority of our working women have young families, and having such a great relationship creates a great work/life balance. Uphillschaefer are hard working professionals, dedicated to providing outstanding service with our highly qualified team. We strive to make every experience the best experience. Since 1971 we have provided Armidale and surrounds with our expertise in real estate, to ensure every client achieves the best outcome. If you require assistance in any aspect to real estate, contact the dynamic team at uphillschaefer on 6772 1200, or visit our website uphillschaefer.com.au - we are always happy to help.

We have the latest and greatest trends and hot items in store, often before they are advertised in home magazines or on TV.

Facing the daunting task of purchasing a home by myself for the first time in my life, I met Janet at an open house of what turned out to be my new home.

Each year we have more and more visitors from near and far frequenting our shop, who have “heard” about us. We love to see faces new and old and appreciate all our customers, whether they be a regular or a “newbie” to Things With A Difference.

it comes to experience andand locallocal hen itit comes to hen comes to experience experience and local ledge, we have youyou covered. nowledge, we covered. nowledge, we have have you covered.

Tell us about your team? My team consists of the two most magnificent women in Armidale, Pam Baldwin and Jenny Haydon. Pam joined the team in 2016 and has an extensive history in retail. Jenny joined the team in 2015 after 22 years at Hannas. Both Pam and Jenny go above and beyond with their customer service and thrive on the joy of customer satisfaction when the perfect gift, homewares or piece of furniture is found. Plans for the future? I’m intending to spend more time and travel with my husband, Greg, who has retired. I will still be attending the two major gift fairs and a few buying trips in between to source unique, beautiful products for the shop.

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Christmas will still be an integral part of our business. We love the excitement and joy of the Christmas season.

Janet Cooke is a person whom you know at first meeting is one of warmth and genuineness, and a pleasure to deal with. Once I had decided I would like to try and purchase this home, Peter Cooke guided me through the purchase with patience, professionalism and understanding. Although he needed to sell the home for his client at the best possible price, Peter also made me feel that he was concerned about my interests as well. There was always patience and wisdom in his advice. An experience that at first seemed overwhelming, didn’t turn out that way at all with the assistance of Peter. I would certainly highly recommend Richardson & Wrench Armidale to anyone considering selling or buying a property through them due to their professionalism, yet at the same time, their friendliness. - Natalie R.

Customer ServiceService rience Customer Experience Customer Service Experience • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • Results RENTALS Outstanding Results mAUCTIONS Work ES • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • RENTALS Outstanding Team Work ES • AUCTIONS • PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • RENTALS us at Outstanding Results Team Work ind us at l Knowledge Modern Agent Agent Local Knowledge ind us at Modern When itcomes comes to experience local Knowledge When ititto comes to and local and Modern Agent n Local it comes experience and locallocal When itcomes to experience and local When comes to experience experience and local When it to experience and When it comes experience and local When it comes to experience and local w.uphillschaefer.com.au When it comes experience and local When it comes to experience and local knowledge, we have you covered. When it comes to experience and local www.uphillschaefer.com.au When it we comes tohave experience and local knowledge, we you covered. knowledge, we have you covered. knowledge, have you covered. knowledge, we have you covered. www.uphillschaefer.com.au knowledge, we have you covered. knowledge, we have you covered. at uphillschaefer.com.au or on Facebook at fb.com/uphillschaeferarmidale wledge, we have covered. knowledge, have youcovered. covered. knowledge, we or have you Find as at uphillschaefer.com.au onyou Facebook at fb.com/uphillschaeferarmidale nowledge, we have you covered.

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New England focus. 41

REPAST PLC ARMIDALE

FOCUS speaks with Director of Development, Shona Eichorn, about the making of REPAST, the commemorative book celebrating 130 years of PLC Armidale, in a very unique and personal way.

ow did this project come about? Why was a recipe book chosen as the project? REPAST is much more than a simple recipe book. The inspiration came from personally purchasing the first recipe book published by another independent Sydney school back in 2010 (a College to which I have no family ties). I was so impressed by the way it had been compiled, the interesting stories it told and its presentation, and had since always wanted to do something similar. So, what better opportunity than PLC Armidale’s 130-year milestone? The commemorative book, or “The Book” to which it had been fondly referred to from the start, became REPAST, after much soul-searching, Googling, brain-storming and many months of scribbles! The title, REPAST, was actually suggested by our College Principal, Mrs Nicola Taylor, who believed in us all. The definition of REPAST is - a meal; a feast or banquet. People connect through food - a shared table, a shared platter, shared conversation and shared connections each symbols of community! That says PLC Armidale - so what better way to showcase this than in a commemorative book, featuring real stories, photos and recipes of our community past and present. The compilation of the book was also the opportunity to engage with our community past and present, in a unique way. People are PLC. And what better way to showcase this and the distinguished history of the College than through the real-life stories and personal accounts of those who have been part of it. Everyone has a story, and on many occasions it involves food! How did you choose the key players? Since tabling the first concept, I knew it would take a pretty special team to achieve

42 New England focus.

this monumental task. I knew it needed a small yet experienced, enthusiastic, hardworking and ambitious group of people. So, enter our graphic designer, stylist and PLC Armidale Old Girl, Bronwyn Grills. Bronwyn and I had worked together on various projects many years ago, and I knew her creative talents and passion for this type of project, so she was an obvious choice. Sarah Burrows, current PLC Armidale Parent (Frensham & Pymble Ladies’ College Old Girl) had mentioned to me in a very casual conversation when we first met when she, husband Richard and children Finn and Neve, relocated to the area, that she had once been a Food Editor on Vogue Entertaining and Travel. Perfect, I thought! The third creative dynamo is one of the most passionate past PLC parents I know, Lynne Walker, who just happens to have done a lot of feature writing for New England magazine as well as national and international magazines, and this one of course. Lynne was Regional Co-ordinator for the Australian Open Garden Scheme, as well as previously working for TVNZ in NZ. Again, bingo! The final and critical selections were engaging an experienced food photographer in Antony from Chasing Summer Photography and a publisher, Red Planet Print Management in Sydney. And me? Well, I just get led astray by the others. We also had wonderful support along the way from a number of additional people who greatly assisted on our cooking days: PLC Armidale Old Girl, Kate Blackmore; current parents - Sarah Ryan and Kim Taylor, and PLC Armidale supporter - Bev Eichorn. NO words seem appropriate nor adequate to express our gratitude to this amazing team! What has the response been like from the staff, students and alumni? Months of exchanging letters, emails, Facebook posts, phone calls, newsletters, conversations! The process to not only obtain submissions (stories, recipes and photos) from

our community - past and present, then to photograph and/or cook every item, then design each page of the 300-page hard cover keepsake, has been nothing short of extensive (and that’s the much-abbreviated version), all inbetween each of our real day jobs! We wanted to showcase stories and recipes from across the generations. Interestingly, many people were reluctant at first, as they didn’t think their recipes would be good enough. Our mantra throughout the project was that we needed submissions reflecting “authenticity, not perfection”! We tried to contact as many of the PLC community as we could, and we had a great response. We managed to organise three Sundays in Term 4 last year in the College’s magnificent hospitality centre, where we cooked each of the recipes submitted, then photographed them all. It was intense! The items cooked on Days One and Two were shared with the cast of The Sound of Music, who were undertaking rehearsals at that time and were ravenous, devouring everything. The final day’s cooking was close to Christmas, and was shared with a number of the College’s oldest Alumni and friends. PLC Armidale has a long and proud history to what do you attribute this success? The College’s 130th year in 2017 provided the opportunity to reflect on the past. The history of PLC Armidale has featured individuals and their determination, along with a community and its commitment to take the road less travelled. Opportunity has arisen from challenge, a focus on solutions - not problems and evident commitment to influence and inspire the next generation. There’s no doubt that the numerous individuals together with the Presbyterian Church itself (with the PLC Sydney alliance) who have had the vision, along with the strength of character, resilience and tenacity to provide a quality all-girls’ education have been the driving force in the success and remarkable longevity of PLC Armidale.

You haven’t been at PLC very long, yet you have taken on the job with great enthusiasm - what do you enjoy about the College? I have been Director of Development at the College since January 2013 and just love my job! In fact, when you’re passionate about what you do, it’s not just a job at all - it’s a way of life, and I’m certainly invested in PLC Armidale. I just love the uniqueness of the all-girls’ environment (it’s certainly a quiet and calm break away from the all-boy household I leave each morning!), the way in which each girl and staff member alike take on challenges, embrace opportunities and get involved in a diversity of endeavours. I have always been involved in a range of community activities and worked in a variety of roles across many areas from sport, to big and small business, education and government, but PLC Armidale is the pick! I grew up on the Far North Coast, but despite not being an Old Girl of the College, have always known of PLC Armidale through the stories of some of my mum’s best friends (Helen Allen - nee Larsson,1964; Nancy Stivano - nee Smith, 1962; and the late Wanda Patch - nee McCallum, 1948)! So, I guess you could say in a very tenuous way, that I have been connected to the PLC family all my life. To me, these women always embodied what my perception of a PLC Armidale girl is i.e. humble, empathetic, caring, loving, genuine, honest, hardworking, friendly, embracing, grounded, compassionate, community minded with a generous giving and kind spirit - women of true substance, integrity and character. To think that I now work in the very school which means so much to them all is very special. Thanks Shona. REPAST will be available from mid-May this year. To purchase your copy, contact PLC Armidale on 6770 1700 or email development@ plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

I pride myself on my attention to detail and good old-fashioned service. I really get just how busy life gets, so I oﬀer both oﬃce-based visits in Uralla and Armidale and provide mobile services within the New England area.

T R A C Y Wright RAW FIBRE OWNER

Raw Fibre commenced operating in July 2016.

continue to foster these relationships. It is such an

Since then I have moved shops twice and

honour to have these established boutiques taking

have now successfully filled every inch of

on our brand. Raw Fibre has also been invited to

our new larger premises. Our first two ranges

participate in the fashion parades at this year’s

were manufactured in Sydney through a small

Royal Easter Show. I am humbled by this offer, as

design house with whom I established a wonderful

the exposure this will give to our business is a little

working relationship. However, something was

overwhelming.

missing; I personally wasn’t making anything. My

I currently make all of the garments in-house. If

main passions are beautiful fabrics and creating

things continue to grow, I may once again have to

garments that people feel good in. I said goodbye,

outsource some of the sewing. My goal, however,

for now, to my manufacturers, and reignited my

is to keep this as local as possible.

connection with my sewing machine.

Raw Fibre is committed to providing our local

In the last few months, Raw Fibre has seen

clients with a range of clothing in some of the

significant changes in our business. We currently

most beautiful fabrics I can find. I have been

have three boutiques in regional NSW stocking

amazed by the huge range of people who have

our garments, which is incredibly exciting. We

discovered us and welcome everyone to come in

have had interest from several others and will

and see what we can offer.

A L I N A Cooper COMPLETE CONVEYANCING NEW ENGLAND OWNER/CONVEYANCER

I’d worked in the legal industry for a number of years before becoming a licensed conveyancer. When the opportunity came up to establish my own conveyancing business, I just knew I had to take it! I opened my doors in September 2017 and have been kept busy ever since. Buying or selling a property is one of the biggest transactions most of us will undertake. Serious penalties can be applied if the terms of the contract are not met, and these can include forfeiting your deposit. My role is to ensure your legal rights and interests are protected and enforced throughout the entire conveyancing transaction. As a conveyancer, I focus solely on property transactions. It’s what I do every day, and my goal is to make sure that buying, selling or transferring

your home or property is done quickly and efficiently, so you can get on with life. In fact, my business motto is, “Maximum support. Minimum fuss”. I pride myself on my attention to detail and good old-fashioned service. I really get just how busy life gets, so I offer both office-based visits in Uralla and Armidale and provide mobile services within the New England area. I also offer an online service. This means it is not necessary to come to our office if you would prefer not to. I love the lifestyle and people of the New England, and conveyancing really is a people business. I find it very rewarding when I can call and say, “Congratulations, you are now the new owners of …”

New England focus. 43

Business Minds with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking

focusinterview

Susan

BUSINESS MINDS

Cull

CEO OF ICT

Introducing Susan Cull, CEO of ICT International. ICT is a multi-award-winning scientiﬁc instrumentation manufacturing and export focused business located in Armidale. ICT received a Highly Commended in the 2014 NSW Business Chambers Export Award and the 2014 Premiers Export Award, won the Regional Development Northern Inland Innovation Award in 2014 and was one of Westpac’s 200 Businesses of Tomorrow in 2017. Susan is also the President of the Armidale Business Chamber.

ell us a little about yourself. I was teaching English and history at Wee Waa High School when I met my husband, Peter. Peter was on a mission to improve water use efficiency throughout Australia; we joined forces, I gave up teaching and took on the marketing and operational management of the newly created business. We have one son, who lives with his wife in Sydney. We spent 20 years in Narrabri, moving to Armidale in 2000. What does ICT do? ICT researches, designs, manufactures and deploys unique world class scientific instrumentation for monitoring water use in plants. We manufacture in Armidale, employ 15 staff locally and export to over 50 countries annually. How did ICT come into being? ICT was formed in 1982, growing out of Peter’s PhD study, which focused on finding the most appropriate instrument to quantify the application of water to irrigative crops. Based in Narrabri for twenty years, we introduced and marketed quantitative soil moisture monitoring using neutron probes to irrigation farmers, CSIRO scientists, departments of agriculture, environmental government entities and universities. We also supplied our customers with imported scientific instrumentation for monitoring soil, plant and environmental parameters. We realised in 2006 the opportunity was in R&D and manufacturing. Overseas product wasn’t solving the issues that agriculture and forestry, for example, were experiencing, because of increasing temperatures and scarcity of water 44 New England focus.

resource. Soil science instrumentation wasn’t Why has ICT been so successful? giving our customers the research data that was We backed ourselves, fundamentally needed to advance improved crop production understood plant water relations after decades of outcomes. We determined that we needed to consulting to farmers to improve their water use focus on the plant or tree itself and effectively efficiencies and hence improve yield outcomes, started a 10-year R&D program. The result was and collaborated with the leading plant scientists the creation of completely unique plant science around the world. This formula enabled us instrumentation of which the Sap Flow Meter to develop and commercialise new sensing and Psychrometer are our flagship products. technology that was focused on solving the real These unique products issues our customers are now contributing face around the world. to new global research Our instrumentation outcomes, including: is used to research researching the tallest what will work moving When you run your trees in the world and forward: whether it is own business, you will identifying how they are what tree species will experience, pleasure, being affected by climate thrive in a world of passion and pain change; studying the increasing temperature in sometimes equal effects of trees dying and increasingly scarce measure. Don’t go into in the Tundra due to water; or how crops business unless it’s your the Tundra permafrost will respond as the absolute heart’s desire. melting; or achieving impact of climate huge water savings in change is felt. horticultural crops such We have created new as almonds, macadamias, Australian IP, unique sandalwood, citrus and grapes. Australian product which is exported to 50 ICT International’s instruments are deployed countries annually. across every possible landscape, including What were your biggest challenges starting environmental and forestry research and out? management; in agricultural, horticultural and Learning to trust my own instincts, whether glasshouse production; mine-site rehabilitation; it was about people or business strategies. Over and urban forest research. time I realised one of my strengths is to never say How do yours and Peter’s roles differ? I can’t, but to say why not and give it a go. Peter manages and leads the scientific R&D What is your favourite part of running your product development side of the business, while own business? I lead the business operations, with a focus on There are probably two things. Firstly, I really marketing. We are both involved in managing enjoy thinking creatively and like to join the production. dots. I believe that framework of thinking carries

through to my current role as President of the Armidale Business Chamber. Secondly, I love empowering our staff to take ownership of their roles and contribution to the company. As a woman in business in a once traditionally male field, what qualities have you found the most useful? Ultimately, it’s about being yourself. You can’t enjoy the confidence of your staff unless you have confidence in yourself. For me, intrinsic to that is having a sense of humour. It is part of my DNA, both personally and professionally. What inspires you? I’m inspired by seeing the beauty in the everyday things around us, in the smile of a child, a beautiful piece of writing, a beautifully designed ad campaign. What would you advise a business just starting out? When you run your own business, you will experience, pleasure, passion and pain in sometimes equal measure. Don’t go into business unless it’s your absolute heart’s desire and passion. You need commitment to stand strong in the face of that. You cannot be half hearted. You need to strive for excellence every day. Where to from here? We continue to research and design new products based on forecasting the research needs of our customers for the future. Recent new projects include working with research institutes and Councils to develop successful strategies to grow healthy urban trees for the Smart Cities of the future. Thanks Susan.

Dr. M A R C I A Whalen oni Mueller, practice manager at Faulkner Street Medical Practice, introduces us to Dr Alex Draney and Dr Marcia Whalen.

Dr Alex Draney, her husband Andrew, and their four children, aged four -16, relocated from Sydney to their new home in Armidale in September 2017. As parents, Alex and Andrew felt increasingly drawn to the benefits of country life for their family over the last couple of years, so when the time was right, they made the move. For the previous twelve years, Alex had worked at a busy inner city Sydney practice, where she honed her love of General Practice

and caring for families and patients from the newborns to the not so young anymore.

Dr. A L E X Draney years of experience in a General Practice, sports medicine and the business of medicine in the United States.

which coordinated comprehensive medical

Marcia originally comes from a small town in the United States in central Pennsylvania, making Armidale feel like home; she plans on settling into the area for the next 10 years or more.

Head Team Physician for USA Water Polo

After spending most of her career in large cities like Philadelphia, New York and the greater Los Angeles area, she is delighted to be back in a rural setting focusing on General Practice.

Olympics in 2012.

“We have felt very welcomed by everyone we’ve met, and the adjustment has been as smooth as we could have hoped for. Armidale feels like home already.” Dr Marcia Whalen moved with her family to Armidale this year to work with the Faulkner Street Medical Practice. She comes with 20

Her experience in sports medicine spanned from Chief of Service for the Cleveland Clinic’s West Coast Brain and Body program,

health with her patients, including healthy

She’s really enjoying her new job at Faulkner Street Medical Practice, and the joys and challenges of rural medicine are proving to be very stimulating. As a family they are settling into their new home, enjoying the space, the view, the sounds, and the stars at night.

assessments for recently retired professional National Football League(NFL) players, to Olympic teams for five years. She was nominated to be a United States Olympic Committee (USOC) Physician and attended as such in the London Summer Her interest and experience in sports medicine make her a great match for any active child, teen, young adult or mature athlete. Marcia likes to focus on preventative eating habits, regular exercise and patient education.

New England focus. 45

LAND

J O Hull PROPERTIES URALLA

Properties Uralla continues to go from strength to strength. From a humble beginning in a shed behind Michael Evans Pottery Shop to a lovely office in the heritage listed old bank building 94 - 98 Bridge Street, activity in both sales and property management continues to gather pace. • To maintain the personal, prompt professional service we pride ourselves on we have had to employ a new full-time assistant. Tammy Howkins will be assisting Jo with property management, reception and administration, giving Jo the time to really zone in and achieve the results our clients have come to expect. • Tammy’s vibrant, positive personality will mesh perfectly into our office, which is focused on providing the best, friendliest most helpful service to everyone we deal with. • The Uralla property market continues to be very positive, with record prices being achieved in both sales and rentals. Our beautiful, vibrant little town attracts new residents from all over Australia. • All this activity means we are constantly in need of houses to sell and especially houses and units to rent. Occupancy rates in Uralla are constantly in the 97 - 100% range, so the quality of tenants is high, and properties are constantly in demand. For an appraisal of your Uralla property or information on the Uralla property market, phone Jo on 0419 511 625 today.

46 New England focus.

BRIONY LOOKER

FOCUS goes on the land with Briony Looker. This month we see what it takes to be a Grazi-Her. Briony shows FOCUS what she gets up to day to day on the property. live and work on a property called Dunoon, located 50 km out of Armidale. Dunoon is 3,957 acres, where we run approx. 4,000 Merino sheep and 400 Wagyu cows. I also own and operate my own cattle fitting business with my partner, Tim, with our clients based around the New England region. I also operate a small Simmental stud herd called B.A.L Simmentals. My job title, I guess you could say, is a farm hand, so my activities range from mustering sheep and cattle, drenching, vaccinating and all other things in between, depending on the time of year - and with varying seasonal conditions, these jobs can change from day to day. How did you get started in agriculture? I have been involved in agriculture my entire life. I grew up on a small property in Glen Innes, attended primary school in Glen Innes and them travelled daily for my high school education to Inverell and then following completion of my HSC in 2012, I moved to Armidale in 2013 to commence a Bach. of Agriculture degree, which I am studying externally through UNE. So, agriculture and farming has always a huge part of my life. Growing up we had sheep and cattle, and I guess that is where my love of livestock came from, but more particularly cattle blossomed - and in early 2015 I commenced my own Simmental stud herd, This is still only a small operation at the moment, running a few stud cows, but I have plans of expanding this in the

future. Agriculture for me is not just an occupation and what I do day to day - it’s my lifestyle, and I wouldn’t choose to live any other way. I live and breathe the land, and it is such a huge part of me and who I am. What's your greatest achievement and what are your goals for the future? That’s a hard one to pinpoint specifically, as I am constantly achieving small successes all the time and every little step in a new or different direction creates new challenges and new goals. So, I guess I have achieved many little things, which will build to be a huge thing sometime soon. As for any standout achievements, I guess they would have to be linked back to my Simmental stud, fitting business and love of showing cattle. This is a hobby which I love doing, and some of the biggest achievements would have to be winning ribbons in the show ring at both local and royal levels. My next biggest goal is graduating uni with my ag degree. From here I then would love to get in to teaching and educating the next generation of farmers to better utilise Australia’s resources and to be more efficient producers to feed an ever increasing population. In some ways I guess my association with the PLC Cattle Team and the students we work with is what drives my passion for educating the future generations, as they will be the farmers who have to face the next biggest challenges associated with farming and agricultural production. What is the best part of what you do? Everything! There is not much of my day to day life that I don’t enjoy, except when it doesn’t rain. If I didn’t enjoy doing what I do, then I wouldn’t have chosen

agriculture and farming to be my life and lifestyle. You have to love what you do and if you do enjoy it, then I guess some would say you never really work a day of your life. Farming and life on the land can get hard and very challenging at times, but with support and some assistance things improve. How do you measure success? There are so many ways in which to measure success when it comes to farming, but the most common way is financially. However, with varying seasons, fluctuating and declining markets and varying rate of demand for products, it does make it hard sometimes to be successful. However, it is not all about the money. Producers can measure success on how many or how much of a product they produce in a year. Every farmer has their own ways of measuring success. For me personally, a successful year is one in which I can look back on it and be happy with what I have achieved and how it was done. How will you embrace change in 2018? In 2018 I will be embracing agriculture the same way I always have, by being a part of it. One of the biggest ways I hope to embrace change in 2018 is through educating people where their food and fibre comes from, by showing the younger generation and actually even some of the older generation that their food and fibre isn’t just taken off a shelf, out of the fridge or hung on a coat hanger, but that people actually dedicate their time and effort to producing that product for everyone’s benefit ... and at the end of the day, everyone needs a farmer - despite what some people may think!

Local barber Bec George opened her barbershop almost eight years ago. Over the years Bec has grown the business as one of the busiest barber salons in Armidale, with four barbers on board. E M M A LeMessurier

E L L A Elks

escribe how you got started in business? After completing my apprentice training in a local hairdressing salon, I was ready for a

challenge. I always had my heart set on having my own business. My first thought was that Armidale already had enough hairdressing salons in town. I loved the hairdressing industry, but needed a change, and thought there was a high demand for a barbershop. I opened the business in September 2010.

P A M M I E Sozou Hewitt

B E C George

BJ’S HAIR FOR MEN

lucky to have a great team to work alongside.

definitely seen a lot of different trends come

door. It’s very rewarding when clients tell you

EMMA ... has beeen working with me for the

and go over the years. Pammie is working in

how much better they feel after a haircut and

last four years and has worked in the industry

the salon on Monday, Thursday, and Friday;

that you have made their day.

for the last 10 years. She is very passionate

she brings knowledge and an exciting new vibe to the salon.

We are a walk-in barbershop, so we do not

about her job and has a real creative flair. She

take appointments. I quite like turning up to

is a busy mother of two.

What do you love

work in the mornings, not knowing what the

Emma works Wednesday,

most about what

day will bring. It definitely keeps us on our

Thursday, and Friday;

you do? To be

toes.

she loves the balance of

honest, I would have

work/life and family time.

to say the clients. I

ELLA ... joined our team in October last year,

How has the business evolved since it

after recently having her

began? When I first opened the business in

first child. Ella previously

2010, I worked solo. I must admit some days

owned her own salon

were very long, waiting around for the next

in Uralla and has been

client to walk through the door. Over the

working in the industry

years, the business has grown consistently;

for the last 12 years.

Going from just myself in 2010; our team now consists of four barbers. As we know, clients are busy with their day to day jobs and haven’t got time to be sitting in the barbershop for hours.

have definitely met a lot of people over the years I have been in business, some

Also, keeping up to date with all the new trends and styles - it’s not just your traditional short back and sides these days. I love a challenge, and it’s really nice to see the guys taking pride in their looks and

starting from their

appearance.

very first haircuts and

Plans for the future? At this stage I’m really

some families of three

happy with how the business has grown. In

and four generations.

September this year it will be our eighth year

Ella is working Mondays

It’s amazing when you

in business. I have a great team of girls and

and Tuesdays. Ella brings

start talking to clients;

plan to just keep doing what we love, keeping

clients are busy with their day to day jobs

experience and great

someone always

our skills up to date with the latest trends and

and haven’t got time to be sitting in the

cutting techniques to the

knows someone

styles.

barbershop for hours. Clients are loving the

salon.

you know or you’re

fact that having the three barbers working, it

PAMMIE ... is one of the newest members

going from just myself in 2010, our team now consists of four barbers. As we know,

definitely frees up waiting time. Tell us about your team? I am extremely

associated with.

Also, I would like to thank our loyal clientele who have supported us over the years. We

to the BJ’s family. Pammie has worked in

We have a lot of regular clientele; it’s always

wouldn’t be where we are today without your

the industry for the last 30 years. She has

nice to see a familiar face walk through the

loyal support.

New England focus. 47

Dr. E R I N

s we roll on into another year, White Leaf Dental continues to expand and change, providing you with more services, dental education, expanded opening hours, and most excitedly, new staff! We are bringing the Woman Power to New England in full force for this edition of FOCUS: Women in Business! Aside from Dr. Scott of course, we have Dr. Sara leading the charge, with local Walcha girl Dr. Erin and our newest team member, Dr. Nupini, both treating patients at our Armidale and Walcha practices. Speaking of Women in Business, Dr. Sara is one powerful force; some may say it’s crazy! Not only does she run White Leaf Dental in three locations with Dr. Scott, but she is also a fantastic clinical dentist, with a keen interest in general health and holistic care; just ask our patients who come

48 New England focus.

Dr. N I P U N I

Dr. S A R A

to her for other non-dental ailment advice. Dr. Sara also manages to juggle further continuing education, topping her Diploma in Orthodontics last year and now beginning studies in snoring, sleep apnoea, and jaw pain, while dedicating days to supervise orthodontic students herself. We are very lucky to have Dr. Nipuni joining the team. Dr. Nipuni grew up in Brisbane and now calls Armidale home. She is loving everything about Armidale so far, from its stunning landscapes to the amazingly friendly people and is a huge fan of cold weather, so is looking forward to the infamous Armidale winter! Nipuni’s special areas of interest are root canal treatment and aesthetic dentistry. She has worked in rural areas previously, and travelled overseas volunteering dental services for children in need. She is a lovely and enthusiastic addition to our

W H I T E L E A F D E N TA L O U R L E A D I N G W O M E N

WLD family, plus, an excellent dentist! We have been receiving fabulous feedback from patients already, and encourage you all to come and meet Dr. Nipuni for a chat, check up and clean. With the addition of Dr. Nipuni comes some exciting times for White Leaf Dental. We understand that life is busy and sometimes there are just not enough hours in a day. As a result, we are extending our opening hours in Armidale on most Thursdays from 7:30am until 9pm! We will continue to have appointments available during the week and also every Saturday. We will now also be open three days a week in Walcha and are excited to be visiting local preschools and schools to educate children and parents about dental health. Dr. Sara offers general and Orthodontic treatment at our surgery, especially for anxious patients,

and Dr. Scott is available to see patients for general treatment plus dentoalveolar surgery, including dental implants and wisdom teeth removal. Both Dr. Sara and Dr. Erin provide Dentofacial treatment for anti-wrinkle injections and lip/dermal filler, with Dr. Sara also providing advanced dento-facial treatments such as thread lifts and anti-ageing procedures. In addition to this, we use and recommend a range of medical grade skin and body care products to complement our holistic approach to dental care, including a fantastic whitening toothpaste for our patients, which is not available in the shops! If you haven’t come in to see us for a while, give the surgery a call on 6772 3309 (Armidale) or 6772 1215 (Walcha) and speak to one of our lovely reception staff to make an appointment. We’d all love to see you again!

T A M Z I N Shotbolt HIBBARD HOMES MARKETING MANAGER

Describe how you got started in your business? I was initially doing contract work for Hibbards for graphic projects. I had two young children (five and two) so I would fit it in where I could - even if it meant staying up until 3am each night to complete it. Eventually I was asked to become full-time and began a lot of personal assistant work for Bruce Hibbard. This meant I was involved in many business meetings and got a thorough understanding of how the business operated, and developed a true to the core belief that was inline with the Hibbard values, and my passion for communicating that core belief

to clients and potential clients - that is how Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve created my position here in Promotion, Marketing, PR and New Business Generation. How has your business evolved since it began? When I first started here (as a full-time employee) in 2012, Hibbards was building in five locations. We are now fully operational in 11 regions, with research into other future regions happening as we speak. The running of the business has changed with the expansion of the amount of employees and the structure, creating confidence and empowerment of people in their roles.

New England focus. 49

new england

Feature Story Jess Ribeiro

March 2018. issue 130

Armidale Autumn Festival

1 5 - 1 8

M A R C H

2 0 1 8 / / PROGRAM GUIDE PAGE 27

INTRODUCING THE

COVER WOMEN B E C Chadd BJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HAIR FOR MEN

MELISSA Killen

LITTLE FISH

TRACY Wright

RAW FIBRE

D E B Hunter RUSDEN ST PHYSIO

50 New England focus.

the Annual

Gem & Craft

SHOW

Buddha

Belly K I T C H E N

hen and where will the 27th Annual Gem and Craft Show be held? It will be held over two great days - Saturday, March 17th from 9am - 5pm and Sunday, March 18th from 9am - 3pm at Armidale Showground. Entry to the gem and craft show is FREE. Vendors will be situated both inside and around the Trade Pavilion. Entry is via Dumaresq and Kennedy Streets. Wheelchair access is available, and stall holders are most welcome to attend. What can you see and do there? There will be a spectacular array of gems, opals, fossils, rocks, crystals, jewellery, crafts, gifts, books, lapidary equipment and supplies on sale. Something for everyone! A qualified jewellery

valuer will be on site to appraise your items; for a small fee you can have them professionally valued. Lots of fun for the kids too, with lucky dips and mini fossicking at the Gem Wash Stall, where you can fossick, find and keep gems such as sapphire, zircon, topaz and many others. Three great prizes will be raffled. Rotary North will provide a BBQ breakfast/lunch, morning/afternoon teas and refreshments over the weekend. How can people have a stall at the Gem and Craft Show, or join your club? Enquiries regarding having a stall at the Annual Gem and Craft Show or joining New England Lapidary and Fossicking Club Inc. can be directed to club events coordinator Ray Devlin on 0427 677 845 after hours or email info@nelfc.net

If there’s any story to tell about hardworking people creating an inspirational product from doing something they love, then look no further than Buddha Belly Kitchen.

elissa Hobbs and her partner, Shane Kleindienst, began their journey with a goal to create delicious food for everyone, but in particular for those with special dietary needs, cultural, and personal beliefs. That’s why the food that Buddha Belly Kitchen markets is able to be made vegan, dairy free and gluten free friendly. Their most revered dish is the famous Vegetarian Buddha Balls, jammed packed full of super foods, tofu and more. You can find Buddha Belly Kitchen at more

than just our Markets in the Mall. Mel and Shane come to the Farmers’ Markets, as well as travelling around NSW to cultural and food festivals to bring their fabulous foods to their customers. Buddha Belly kitchen also cater for all seasons, so there’s something for everyone in all months of the year. This makes their stall unique and very exciting. Make sure you come down to the Armidale Markets in the Mall on Sunday 25th March to get a taste of Buddha Belly Kitchen, and see what’s on offer for you!

New England focus. 51

focusinterview.

Prime My

The Rotary Club of Armidale AM has been supporting the Armidale and wider community for 26 years. This year they have decided on rolling out a major community initiative to help our community that we are excited to share, called Prime My Project. Sam Doyle tells FOCUS readers of the progress so far.

ell us how things have as joint partners with our Rotary Club in been going for the the Project, they will be involved at every Project this year. step. Applications are open until 2nd It’s been an amazing March 2018, and you can apply at: www. start to 2018, with Prime primemyrpoject.org.au My Project taking full After applications close, representatives flight. We have been in contact with apfrom the Bowling Club and our entire proximately 70 local volunteer organisaRotary Club will sit down and narrow the tions about the Project and getting them applications down to 10. Then, all 10 up to speed prior to projects will come our launch on 28th and speak at our January. We had Rotary Club and tell a great response, us in around five and lots of people minutes what their WE WILL ALSO BE have told us stories project is, and how ANNOUNCING THE WINNER about how financial $5,000 and our AT THE DINNER AND WE and in-kind support clubs’ support for a WOULD LOVE TO SEE AS could help their year will help them. MANY PEOPLE AS WE CAN. ideas become After this, the reality. We also met Bowling Club and with the Grants our club will choose Committee of the three finalists to Armidale City Bowling Club late last year attend our Gala Presentation Dinner. Then about receiving a grant to help increase on the night, the winning project will be the overall donation to the winning decided as a final vote by both clubs, and project. This year, we were told by Patrick will receive the $5,000 donation, plus the Crick, President of the Club, that they proceeds of the Gala Presentation Dinner. had decided to match our donation and Sounds amazing! What are the critecontribute $2,500! This is an amazing ria to decide who wins? gesture by the club, and we can’t wait Our criteria are very broad, which to have the Bowling Club involved. We makes our job of deciding who wins even announced the project at the Armidale harder. To be able to apply, you must Markets in the Mall on 28th January be an individual, community group, or 2018, so applications are now open! organisation, that has a project, whether Wow! What a great achievement. it be an idea, or an existing project that How will the decision be made on the needs help. You also need to be local to winning project? the Armidale region, that includes Uralla, With the Bowling Club now coming in Walcha and Guyra area. The main aspect

we are looking for is that your project is passionate about helping the community, and that’s the inspiring part for us - seeing what’s out there and seeing how we can help someone achieve what they haven’t been able to before. Brilliant! So, what does the 12 months of club support entail? Our Rotary Club has 23 passionate and active members who have committed to helping the winning project on their journey for 12 months. That’s why we want every club member’s input into who is the winner of Prime My Project. The winning project and our club will sit down at the end of the competition and work out a plan for the next year. Our club members will then contribute as much as we can to helping the project get on their feet and achieve their goals. It’s a big commitment, but we are excited to see what the next year will have in store for us. Tell us about the Gala Dinner ... Sounds like a great night of fun! On 13th April at the Bowling Club we will be having our Gala Presentation Dinner. The dinner will be where we have the final three projects present their project ideas to the community, as well as our club and the Bowling Club. We will also be announcing the winner at the dinner, and we would love to see as many people as we can. There will be a charity auction run by Peter Georkas, as well as a band to dance the night away to! Thanks Sam.

Elders Insurance Local business sponsoring local people

12 000

Elders Insurance has been providing rural Australia with insurance for over 100 years, and Elders Insurance New England continues that tradition servicing Armidale, Walcha, Uralla, Guyra, Dorrigo and surrounding districts. We also support a range of business, community and charitable organisations each year across rural and regional Australia. We see this as a way of contributing and giving back to the communities in which many of our staff, partners, customers and clients live and work. This month we have the honour of sponsoring Seasons of New England, bringing local producers and artisans together and providing a forum for the rest of us to enjoy what they have to offer. The New England Expo will be held at Hampden Park, Uralla, on Saturday 24th March 2018. We are also the proud sponsors of other local organisations such as Camp Quality, DK Soccer Club, and the Armidale Golf Club. Our corporate sponsorship program focuses on those opportunities which give us exposure across our branch networks and link us with national brands or initiatives. For local opportunities, please submit a request with your local Elders branch.

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When you advertise with Focus youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not just advertising once, but in 12,000 FREE copies. Our huge circulation is the single biggest reason that Focus continues to achieve the results that our clients demand.

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New England focus. 53

focusinterview.

Neal Howard E L E C T RIC A L

Neal Howard Electrical Service Friends and family gathered at The Brewery in Uralla to celebrate two milestones in the history of family owned and operated business, Neal Howard’s Electrical Service (NHES). The date marked 65 years of operation, and recognised the wonderful lifetimes work of Donald Patrick “Donny” Wallace who has been with NHES for 50 years.

65 years

Friends and family gathered at The Brewery in Uralla to celebrate two milestones in the history of family owned and operated business, Neal Howard’s Electrical Service (NHES). The date marked 65 years of operation, and recognised the wonderful lifetimes work of Donald Patrick “Donny” Wallace who has been with NHES for 50 years.

dam Marshall attended the evening and showed great interest in the memorabilia that was on show from the past 65 years of NHES. Ross Hoy, one of the many past employees who travelled from far and wide to be at the event, made a great speech remembering the milestones of the company and Donny’s service to it. Added to the many electricians who furthered their careers in the industry, and that of their families, was the incredible service most of those employees served with the NSW Fire Brigade, totalling 200 + years. Tell us about some of the long serving members of the team. Ernest “Bub” Howard was an original member of the Walcha Brigade serving for 24 years. Vern (Ned) Fisher served in the Walcha Brigade for nine years whilst employed by NHES. Arthur (Charlie) Dunn served for five years in the Walcha Brigade whilst employed by NHES. John Neal Howard served in the Uralla Brigade for over 30 years. Wayne Howard served in the Uralla Brigade for 27.5 years. Donald P Wallace served in the Uralla Brigade for over 20 years. Ian (Snow) Bird served in the Walcha Brigade for over 21 years. Neil Shenehan also served in the Uralla brigade. Ross Hoy AFSM served in the Port 54 New England focus.

Macquarie Brigade for 26 Years, 14 as Captain. Ross was also Secretary of NSW Championships for a further 12 years. Daphne Wallace made both a moving and witty speech for her husband, well as for new areas Donny, highlighting his of development such unwavering dedication THE ELECTRICAL as solar energy. So, to and commitment to his INDUSTRY IS FAST adapt to these changes work and the community. MOVING AND ALWAYS over time and keep Tell us how it all SEEING TECHNOLOGICAL a successful business started? ADVANCES, MAKING running, we must Ernest Archibald IT AN EXCITING AND ensure we stay up to “Bubba” Howard started REWARDING INDUSTRY date with them and Howard’s Electrical and TO WORK IN. skilled in all areas. Refrigeration Service Introduce your team (HERS) in 1953 with his for us ... wife, Beulah. Wayne Howard His son, Neal Howard, Director. worked with him from day one and in 1962 Donny Wallace - Senior Electrician. Donny opened NHES. commenced with NHES on December 4, 1967. His son, Wayne Howard, commenced work There was no interview … Donny’s dad asked at NHES in 1984 and continues to operate the Neal Howard at the pub the night before if business. he needed an apprentice and Donny started What have been some of the changes in the next day. His first pay packet was $16.90 the industry? paying 0.75c in tax. To this day, Donny has Technology has made a major impact in the a sound reputation in the New England as advancement and productivity of electricity a skilled, dedicated and loyal community and how it serves the community. The biggest member. Whilst Daphne is keen to hit the road change is in solar power and automation. in the caravan, Donny’s not quite ready to The electrical industry is fast moving and retire yet. always seeing technological advances, making Nicholas Wallace - Electrician (son of Donny it an exciting and rewarding industry to work Wallace). in. Despite changes in the industry, however, Anthony Connors - Electrician electricians’ skills will always be in demand, for Alex Cormack - Electrician installation, maintenance, and repair work, as

Danika Howard - Receptionist (daughter of Wayne Howard) What’s next for Neal Howard Electrical? To continue to service the New England region with the best and most advanced electrical and technological services. Wayne Howard has no plans to retire anytime soon, but when he does his plans are to hit the road in his split screen Kombi with his long board on top and no planned destination in mind. The team at NHES would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of the loyal customers for their support through difficult times (droughts, economical downturns etc.) and the good times, of which there are many. The event … A huge thank you goes out to The Brewery Uralla. What an excellent venue for a function, and it could not have been more fitting for this night. Service and support was great from start to finish, and the local beverages served up were first class. Another massive thank you to Dale’s Downtown Meats for catering the evening. Not only did they use all fresh and local produce, including their own meats, but everyone was overwhelmed by the unique and tasty meal that was delivered. Thanks everyone.

Thinking Recovery W I T H

CHRISTOPHER SEROW & SAM DOYLE

Thinking Debt Recovery Sometimes, you may have a complaint against someone who has provided defective goods and services, which you have not been able to resolve with the provider or someone owes you money, and they have not shown any willingness to pay you, in spite of requests from you.

ften, these issues involve relatively small amounts of money. It then does not appear worthwhile, to go to court and sue for the money, where the costs can be significant and where dealing with the complexities of court litigation can be daunting. In civil debt claims, the amount of the debt generally determines which court or tribunal you would need to go to in order to pursue a debt claim. For matters where the claim is between $10,000 - $100,000, it will usually be appropriate to file your action in the Local Court in its General Division. For amounts greater than $100,000, it would usually be appropriate to file your action in the District or Supreme Court of NSW. For these kinds of action, it is definitely recommended that you get legal advice and assistance. Debt claims of $10,000 and under, can usually be filed in the Small Claims Division of the Local Court. This involves filing a Statement of Claim and a supporting affidavit. These must be served upon the other party. In most cases, it is usually a good idea to send a Letter of Demand first, to the other party, to give them an opportunity to resolve the matter, without the need to go to court. This letter would be your proof that you have attempted such resolution, as the Small Claims Division strongly encourages parties to attempt prompt and efficient settlement of claims between themselves, leaving litigation as a ‘last resort’. Court registry staff can provide some limited assistance in filling out the appropriate paperwork, but they cannot give legal advice. If a party has been served with a Statement of Claim but then does nothing about it for at least 28 days, then the claiming party, the Plaintiff, can apply to the court for a Default Judgement against the Defendant/Judgment Debtor. Provided the other party does not successfully apply to have a Default Judgment set aside, the Plaintiff would automatically have judgement in their favour by default. It then becomes a matter

of how the judgment is to be enforced. One way, is for the Sheriff’s Office to seize property of the judgement debtor and sell it. Another way, is for the wages or pension payments of the debtor to be garnisheed, which means that their payer has to take a certain amount of money out of the debtor’s income payments, to pay off the debt. Sometimes, a debtor can apply to be allowed to pay a debt off by instalments and the court can order a party to give evidence of their financial means to determine a reasonable amount to be paid with each instalment. Also, it is possible for a debtor’s assets to be made subject to a charge or a writ. The debt then becomes payable once the debtor attempts to dispose of the asset or when the creditor sells the property. It is usually real estate that becomes the subject of a charge or writ, but it can be applied to other assets. The Small Claims Division of the Local Court is generally less formal than the General Division, and the court may often refer parties to a Community Justice Centre for mediation, to give an opportunity to settle a claim as an alternative to ‘fighting it out’ in court. It is generally cheaper to negotiate a settlement, with or without the help of a mediator (Community Justice Centres do use mediators). Lawyers can also assist, in negotiations. Seeing a lawyer about any contemplated action in court, may not only help to save you unnecessary costs, you will also get the advice, information and support that you need, in relation to costs, limitation periods and options for recovery to ensure that you are in the best position to get what you are entitled to. Christopher Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent Sam Doyle Paralegal New England focus. 55

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CLASSICS, HISTORY, PHILOSOPHY AND STUDIES IN RELIGION Bachelor of Historical Inquiry and Practice Graduate Diploma in Local, Family and Applied History** Master of Arts* Master of History

COMPUTER SCIENCE, IT AND DATA SCIENCE

EDUCATION AND TEACHING Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary) Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood Teaching) Bachelor of Education (In-service Conversion) Bachelor of Education (K-6 Teaching) Bachelor of Education (K-12 Teaching) Bachelor of Education (Secondary in Arts; Mathematics; Music^^ or Science) Bachelor of Educational Studies Bachelor of Special and Inclusive Education (Primary) Bachelor of Training and Development Graduate Certificate in Education Studies Graduate Certificate in eLearning Master of Education Master of Teaching (Primary) Master of Teaching (Secondary)

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LAW AND CRIMINOLOGY Diploma in Prosecution and Advocacy Bachelor of Criminology~ Bachelor of Laws (3 years) Bachelor of Laws (4 years) Double degrees in Law available in Agriculture; Arts; Business; Computer Science; Criminology; Economics; Environmental Science and Science Master of Laws Master of Natural Resource Governance

LINGUISTICS Master of Applied Linguistics

NURSING, SOCIAL WORK AND HEALTH

Diploma in Professional Communication Bachelor of Media and Communications~ Diploma in Community Welfare and ARTS Wellbeing ENVIRONMENTAL AND EARTH Bachelor of Computer Science~ Bachelor of Audiometry Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Computer Science/Bachelor SCIENCES Bachelor of Community Services Advanced Diploma in Arts of Laws Bachelor of Environmental Science Bachelor of Nursing~ Bachelor of Arts~ Master of Computer Science Bachelor of Environmental Science/ Bachelor of Social Work Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business Master of Data Science*# Bachelor of Laws Graduate Diploma in Disability* Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws Master of Information Technology*# Bachelor of GeoScience Graduate Certificate in Health Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science Master of Information Technology Graduate Certificate in Environmental Professional Education Master of Arts* (Business) Science Master of Counselling# ARCHAEOLOGY AND ECONOMICS AND Master of Natural Resource Master of Health Management*# INDIGENOUS STUDIES Governance AGRIBUSINESS Master of Mental Health Practice*# Master of Planning and Management of Master of Social Work (Professional Bachelor of Arts~ Bachelor of Agribusiness~ Natural Hazards*# Qualifying) Bachelor of Science~ Bachelor of Agricultural and Resource Master of Environmental Science and PEACE, POLITICAL AND Economics BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE AND Management INTERNATIONAL STUDIES Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of PHARMACY EXERCISE AND SPORTS Economics Diploma in Arts SCIENCE Bachelor of Biomedical Science Bachelor of Economics Advanced Diploma in Arts Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours Bachelor of Economics/Bachelor of Bachelor of Clinical Exercise Bachelor of Arts Laws BUSINESS, MANAGEMENT, Physiology~ Bachelor of International and Language Graduate Certificate in Agribusiness Bachelor of Exercise and Sports MARKETING AND HR Studies Master of Economic and Regional Science~ Bachelor of International Studies Development Diploma in Business Master of Arts* GEOGRAPHY AND PLANNING Master of Economics# Bachelor of Business Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business Diploma in Town Planning Bachelor of Agriculture/Bachelor of Bachelor of Urban and Regional Business Planning Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Laws Master of Urban and Regional Planning#

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All courses available to start 5 March une.edu.au/fivestars â&#x20AC;¢ 1800 818 865

University of New England CRICOS Provider Number 00003G

SCIENCE Diploma in Science Bachelor of Science~ Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Laws Bachelor of Scientific Studies Graduate Diploma in Science Master of Scientific Studies

SUSTAINABILITY Bachelor of Sustainability

THEATRE, PERFORMANCE AND MUSIC Diploma in Music Skills^^ Diploma in Music Technology Bachelor of Music^^ Master of Applied Theatre Studies

ENTRY PATHWAYS Pathways Enabling Course (Will give you entry to most UNE degrees, is free and can be studied online from home.) TRACKS Tertiary Preparation Program (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander) ~ Honours year also available * Graduate Certificate also available ** Advanced Diploma also available # Graduate Diploma also available ^^ Early Application closing date Please see website for individual course rules and admissions criteria.