New England Focus i147

My Notes from New England

August 2019. issue 147

JOHN SNR. & JOHN JNR. CASSIDY

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focus_ team.

team From the

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Welcome to the August edition of New England FOCUS.

reetings to you, our wonderful readers.

Our August edition is here and is always a joy to put together.

We have our annual Men In Business feature this month; it’s always a pleasure to get out and meet these hard working men in their chosen line of work and hear their stories.

month. This father and son duo are highly successful businessmen in the New England area and have done a stellar job bringing the jewel in Armidale’s crown back to the forefront of sophistication and luxury for all to enjoy.

This month also sees us expand our home deliveries into parts of Tamworth, as well as our stands of magazines dotted in and around the CBD and local businesses too.

To celebrate the recently completed refurbishment of Tattersalls Hotel, we have put together a 10 page feature in this edition, showcasing the beauty of this Art-Deco masterpiece.

We love to share stories of both young and old from all over our region. If you know anyone who has a story to share, please get in touch, so we can include them.

ON THE COVER We have John Snr. and John Jnr. Cassidy, owners of Tattersalls Hotel in Armidale, gracing our cover this

contacts.

ADDRESS 3/164 Beardy Street, Armidale NSW 2350 PHONE (02) 6771 5551 WEB www.focusmag.com.au FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/ne.focus IG focus.mag E info@focusmag.com.au

John Snr. actually appeared on our very first FOCUS cover over 12 years ago, so it’s lovely to have him back again.

So, make yourself a cuppa, relax, and take in the true beauty that is Tattersalls. Better still, check it out for yourself. The meals are five star, service impeccable and the accommodation is like nothing else in our region.

month, which include the lovely Deborah Stevenson - who, believe it or not, has a copy of every single copy of New England FOCUS that’s been printed - that to date is 147 issues!

We talk to Brent Larkham from Voodoo Town and hear about their first released single, Glory Dayz.

And we meet 16 year old Armidale girl Erin Porter, who is doing great things on and off the hockey field.

There’s so much more, so settle in and check out what the people of New England have to offer.

FINAL SAY “All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them” Walt Disney.



GRAPHIC DESIGNER Kyle Rathbone

Amber McFarlane

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Michael Marchment

MANAGING EDITOR Jay Beaumont ART DIRECTOR Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

SENIOR EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTOR Jo Robinson

jo@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jeff Cowan

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EDITION CO-ORDINATOR ADVERTISING SALES

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A job at Ascent will: Identify and assess your strengths and work skills.

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IN THIS EDITION

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Finding and Keeping a Job

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PHOTOGRAPHER/EDITORIAL James Brooks james@focusmag.com.au

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Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press, however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Articles marked as 'Interview or Contributor' are non-sponsored content.

Greater Port Macquarie Focus is published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 8600 5. Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2018 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

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New England focus. 3

contents Issue 147 - August 2019

focusinterviews

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Isabelle Devos.

feature a special

TATTERSALLS FEATURE

Gallery 126 presents In The Studio with local artist Isabelle Devos. Isabelle exhibits through Gallery 126; she studied art for four years at art school in Canada and graduated with a double major in painting and photography.

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Peta Moore.

Artist Peta Moore is inspired by the country life, nature’s landscapes, being able to experiment and “create art differently”. A qualified teacher, Peta also offers art therapy for children and a space for like-minded people to gather together and share their creativity.

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Usual Suspects

Ruby Red Dog.

the

Ruby is an Australian Red Kelpie living her best life out on the farm near Tamworth NSW. Quickly rising to superdog status, we sat down and chewed the fat with her about all things life.

10. WHAT’S ON AUGUST 22. ICING ON THE CAKE WITH SUSIE DUNN 44. STAR GUIDE WITH TERRI

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48. BUSINESS MINDS WITH INGRID ROTHE 50. MINDING YOUR BUSINESS WITH ANTHONY FOX

The Twits.

A new razztwizzling adaption of Roald Dahl’s very irreverent classic, The Twits takes you into the world of grumpy old couple Mrs and Mrs Twit, who haven’t had a good thought or done a kind thing in years. They like nothing more than dreaming up terrible tricks to play on each other.

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

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focusinterview.

TONY AND LIZ

LOOKER

GUYR A LOCALS TONY AND LIZ LOOKER WILL BE TAKING PART IN THE 2019 DROVER’S RUN 4WD OUTBACK ADVENTURE - AN EPIC TREK THAT RAISES FUNDS FOR THE VITAL WESTPAC RESCUE HELICOPTER SERVICE. LIZ STOPPED BY TO CHAT ABOUT THE EVENT AND HOW SHE EXPECTS IT TO UNFOLD …

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i Liz. What encouraged you both to take part in the Drover’s Run 4WD Outback Adventure this year?

Tony’s mother and aunty both used to raise funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, holding street stalls and other events. They’ve both passed away now, and Tony wants to continue the work they started.

I also wanted to be a part of the event, because my brother was involved in a home invasion at Glen Innes, and he had to be flown to Newcastle by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Tony was part of the Drover’s Run last year. How did that come about?

Tony first heard about the event on the radio the year before last, and he rang up about it.

Tony and his cousin were actually awarded a trophy as the team who raised the most funds last year for the Drover’s Run $15,000.

That’s a wonderful achievement! The Drover’s Run takes place this year from August 4th - 17th. Where’s your starting point - and what are some of the places you’ll be visiting along the way?

We start from Broken Hill (we need to make our own way there). About 50 4WDs, with two people per vehicle, are involved this year. We visit the Flinders Ranges, William Creek, Oodnadatta, the Simpson Desert, Birdsville, Innamincka, before 6 New England focus.

making our way back to Tamworth via Lightning Ridge.

There’s actually a dinner on the night before the Run, August 3rd, at Broken Hill.

Have either of you ever visited any of these places previously?

No, neither of us have seen these places.

This is the longest Drover’s Run they’ve done - they do a two week Drover’s Run one year and nine day trip the other.

How are the logistics of the event sorted - such as accommodation, fuel etc.?

It’ll cost us around $3,000 all up to do the run, which includes our accommodation and fuel. Our fuel and accommodation stops along the way have all been marked out for us beforehand.

Toilet and shower stops along the way have also been worked out, and some of our food is catered for (we supply the rest ourselves).

We’re led by a yellow Westpac Rescue Helicopter vehicle in front, and another one brings up the rear.

Tony and I will share the driving, because all up, the run is almost 4,500 km.

How much are you looking forward to the run? Are you expecting any challenges?

I’m so excited - I can’t wait! There’ll be some rough and dusty roads, and we’ve had to buy sand dune flags [these are placed on your vehicle, so other drivers can see you when you’re travelling over the crests of sand dunes].

There’s always the possibility of things like

breakdowns, but because we’re travelling in a group, we’ll all be able to help each other.

Why do you feel it’s important to raise funds for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service?

It’s a free emergency service for people who need it, but if the service isn’t funded through donations and events like this one, it could no longer be a free service.

The service has visited Guyra, where we live, in the past, and airlifted people to Newcastle when needed.

Times are tough with the drought and it’s hard for people, but the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service needs all the help it can get.

Do you have a fundraising goal?

At the moment we’ve raised about $7,000.

It’d be nice to be the biggest fundraisers again, but if we aren’t, that’s OK! We’re more than happy to share it around.

How can we donate to support the cause?

If you visit the website: http://droversrun2019.gofundraise.com.au/ then click on the link that says “support a drover”, you’ll see all the people taking part in the event. Click on the drovers you’d like to support!

Thanks Liz. Interview: Jo Robinson.

Pic of helicopter courtesy of Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

For more info about the Drover’s Run, please visit: http://www.rescuehelicopter.com. au/events/2019-drovers-run-4wd-outbackadventure

WESTPAC RESCUE HELICOPTER SERVICE

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he WRHS is a registered charity, or not for profit organisation. Its sole purpose is to provide the highest standard aeromedical search and rescue service for the communities within its vast areas of operation. This free of charge service is provided 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to anyone in need.

The service’s operational area extends from the Hawkesbury River in the south, to the Queensland border in the north and as far west as Brewarrina and Nyngan, although further if tasked, and operates from three bases across northern NSW, Newcastle, Tamworth and Lismore.

Since March 2017, when a doctor and paramedic have been on base 24 hours per day, the helicopters in the New England/ North West region are now flying more than 500 lifesaving missions each year and service wide approaching almost 2,000 individual missions each calendar year.

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focusinterview.

my notes from

N E W

E N

Lara Flanagan is a city girl turned country … SOMEONE WHO FIGHTS DAILY BATTLES, BUT LIVES WITH GRATITUDE AND HOPE. Plant-based food creator, writer, explorer, photographer, an advocate for “slow living”, MS warrior - Lara’s story is beautiful …

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i Lara. Please share a little of your history with us in the New England area ...

I grew up on the Gold Coast and have always considered myself a city girl!

I lived in Japan for 12 months when I was 20 and in the UK for five years in my late 20s.

I knew little of the New England area until an opportunity brought me to Tenterfield in 2012.

I was on my own with Archie and Rissie, who

four seasons and that life moves a little slower. I were then four years old. I thought Tenterfield love the sense of community. I love that you can would be a three-month experiment, but instead, go outside at night and see a blanket of stars. I some six months later I bought a cottage - and Tenterfield became home. Those few months had love that every road seems to lead to somewhere beautiful. I simply love this turned me into a girl of place; it gets in your blood New England. and becomes a part of your What is it about Tensoul. terfield you most love?

You have multiple strings There are so many IN THE WINTER OF 2013, to your bow! Firstly, things that I love about I STUMBLED ACROSS A tell us a little about Tenterfield. I love the PROGRAMME CALLED the inspiration behind OVERCOMING MULTIPLE your food choices/menu SCLEROSIS (OMS). THIS creation ...

OMS PROGRAMME WAS I have always had such DEVELOPED BY A DOCTOR a strong relationship with CALLED GEORGE JELINEK,

WHO HIMSELF HAS MS, AND WHO HAD WATCHED HIS MOTHER DIE FROM MS.

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food and a fantasy of a long harvest table filled with foods of all descriptions. Where I am at now has come after a series of twists and life-changing turns. At the end of 2012, when I was preparing to move into my Tenterfield cottage, I had the first of a series of serious health issues. The health issues persisted and in early 2013, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Initially, I went down the traditional route, which is really the only option you are given in the early stages of a MS diagnosis. The medications I was put on had severe side-effects - life was a struggle.

In the winter of 2013, I stumbled across a programme called Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis (OMS). This OMS programme was developed by a doctor called George Jelinek, who himself has MS, and who had watched his mother die from MS. With the help of my family, I went to an OMS retreat in Victoria. The thing that got me most was the word “overcoming”. How could you overcome a disease that was degenerative and incurable?

The OMS programme was based on a predominantly plant-based diet, flax oil supplementation, vitamin D, exercise and meditation. I came away armed with knowledge, but it took me a while to implement. To cut a long story short, increasing ill-health, doctors who provided little or no hope and a journey into despair made me realise that

focusinterview.

G L A N D my one hope was to ditch the medications and change my life. I could not accept that the way I was living was my fate.

Initially I looked at my change in diet as a punishment, and I resented it. I had lost the dream of my harvest table and any joy I found in food. Then a chance holiday to the New England area of the USA helped me to come home with a completely different outlook. By mid-2015, I took a leap into the unknown and quit my job, went freelance, started my blog and began creating recipes that were all about joyful eating.

In 2016, another great leap saw the kids and I travel around the world for nine months - three months in the USA, three months in Costa Rica and three months in Italy. The USA reminded me of the potential of good food, Costa Rica reminded me of the simplicity of food, and Italy was like soul food. Italy reminded me how good food, cooked with love, shared with those you love is the essence of life.

I now embrace a fully plant-based life that is filled with joyful, beautiful food, and the dream of my harvest table has returned. What was important to me then morphed into an idea that life should be a FEAST. F is for family friendly and fun, E is for economical, A is for attainable and achievable, S is for sexy (as in looks good on the plate!) and the most important, T is for taste.

What's involved with your FEAST courses?

I was lucky enough to be contacted by Rebecca Everett from our Tenterfield Health Food store to do some recipe creation for her. That relationship became a friendship, and we are both passionate about food. Bec is also qualified in nutrition, so she provides a solid knowledge base.

A chance conversation one day in 2018 led

I NOW EMBRACE A FULLY PLANT-BASED LIFE THAT IS FILLED WITH JOYFUL, BEAUTIFUL FOOD, AND THE DREAM OF MY HARVEST TABLE HAS RETURNED. WHAT WAS IMPORTANT TO ME THEN MORPHED INTO AN IDEA THAT LIFE SHOULD BE A FEAST.

to the creation of FEAST courses. Our FEAST courses are all about sharing our love of plant-based food. Our courses combine a workshop with a dining experience. That experience is not formal but rather, the chance to share a feasting table with a group of people.

I avoid using the word vegan, because of many negative connotations to the word. I’m also aware that the region I love is very much sheep and cattle country. I am a vegan, but Bec is not.

What our workshops are about is simply sharing our love of plant-based food in a way that is delicious, fun and filled with joy.

With FEAST courses, I have found my harvest table! What is amazing is our courses this year have been booked out six weeks in advance, with people coming from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, as well as locals. We are now working on plans for our 2020 series!

Where did your interest in photography begin?

When it comes to photography, I am very much a self-taught amateur. There have been times when life has been tough, and I developed a mantra that I needed to start the day with something beautiful to help me retain my inner Pollyanna. Photography has now become an obsession, and I love recording my morning moment of #startthedaywithsomethingbeautiful I also, in a way, wanted the kids to have a

record of our daily lives.

This region is so beautiful; I love capturing every nuance of it.

What does the term "slow living" mean to you ... and how do you practice this in your day to day life?

We live in such a fast-paced world, where we want everything now. I am not criticising technology, as I could not work, travel and live the way I do without it. But I do worry about our reliance on modern devices and the increasing lack of importance that is put on human communication. So, for me, despite a busy life, I try to focus on living slower. Slow living means living more with less. Being grateful for what you have. Stopping and smelling the roses, going out at night and being in awe of the stars.

Animals help too; there is nothing like watching your flock of chickens interact or feeding the magpies in the morning to realise how beautiful simple things can be. I guess it is all about taking the time to appreciate things, being grateful and being appreciative of the world around you.

How have your personal challenges helped shaped your beliefs/the person you are today, and your choices?

My personal challenges have changed me completely and have certainly influenced the way I live now. With the diagnosis of MS and then in 2017, the very tragic loss of my dear friend and sister, I have realised that life is short.

Life is short, but it is so precious. I have realised what we own does not matter. What matters is living well.

You have a blog, which can be accessed through your website: mynotesfromnewengland.com - what types of subjects do you generally write about?

I write about anything and everything. It could really be called a blog about a lovely life of nothing! I have shared my travels, my health challenges, my grief and heartache. Challenges of a former city girl living in the country. And of course - food - life is always about food. I think now, that most of all I write about hope.

What sorts of products do you stock in your online store - and how do you source them?

I am just about to launch my online store, which I have been working on for the last six months. My store will stock a few things I love.

I have sourced a range of vegan bags; I have shirts and books that are based on literary inspiration, and I have also been working on a series of small cookbooks. My bags I sourced from a supplier who works with a factory in China that had to tick all the ethical boxes for me. It has been a fascinating challenge, and I am looking forward to launching this in July.

What's the best way to contact you/find out more about you?

Either via my blog or via Facebook or Instagram (My Notes from New England). My email details are on my blog as well!

Thanks Lara.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 9

focus_What’s On New England

A U G U S T

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First Saturday chats

Our next First Saturday chats will be hosted by Christopher Serow (Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent) from 10am to 1pm at the Legal Minds offices at 157 Beardy Street, The Mall, Armidale on Saturday 3rd August. As this is a popular programme, bookings are essential on (02) 6788 1100.

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Tamworth Running Festival

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Purple Fusion

Armidale Symphony Orchestra to perform with a band for the first time. Jon Lord’s Concerto for Group and Orchestra was first performed by Deep Purple and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall in 1969.

Marking the 50th anniversary of this performance, will be two concerts at Lazenby Hall, featuring Steve Tafra - guitar, Sarah Thorneycroft - bass, Warwick Dunham - keyboards, Dave Van Tongeran - drums, Greg Windred - vocals, with The Armidale Symphony Orchestra. When Saturday 3rd August at 8pm, Sunday 4th August at 3pm. Where Lazenby Hall.

Tickets available at Trybooking.com - or at the door.

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ADFAS Armidale August Lecture

Downton to Gatsby - Jewellery and Fashion 1890 - 1928 by Andrew PRINCE (UK Arts Society Lecturer).

When Thursday 15th August at 6pm.

Where Hoskins Centre, The Armidale School (TAS).

Guests are most welcome, and a $25 fee applies per lecture, with light supper afterwards.

Tickets https://www.trybooking.com/BAQDP

The Tamworth Running Festival, Sunday 4th August, is an annual event with half marathon, 10 km and 5 km fun runs, and a 4 km community walk.

This event is organised by the Tamworth Triathlon Club.

It started back in 1974 with just the 10 km fun run, with the other events being added over the years. It is the third oldest fun run in NSW and a much loved contribution to the lifestyle of North West NSW. All events start and finish at No1 Oval on Kable Ave in Tamworth. tamworthrunningfestival.org.au for more info.

AgQuip

University of Newcastle OPEN DAYS

Get a taste of campus life, meet academics and students and be inspired by displays, talks and tours.

When 3rd August - Central Coast campus from 10am, 31st August - Newcastle Callaghan or City campuses; or Info Session Port Macquarie - 15th August at Port Central.

Register online www.newcastle.edu.au/openday

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“PARCHED”

The talented musicians of sister schools PLC Armidale and PLC Sydney present “PARCHED” - a community benefit concert for regional drought relief.

When Friday 9th August; 7:30pm.

Where Lazenby Hall, University of New England, Armidale.

Tickets $25 adults; $15 children/concession.

RSVP Purchase tickets online www.trybooking.com.au/ BDHQU Enquiries PLC Armidale (02) 6770 1700. info@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au PLC Sydney (02) 9704 5666, enquiries@plc.nsw.edu.au To Donate www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au Additional donations gratefully received for the Regional Boarders Drought Relief Fund.

All donations are tax deductible.

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AgQuip is Australia’s largest and premier primary industry field day. In 2019 AgQuip celebrates its 47th anniversary (1973 - 2019). The nation’s biggest agricultural event showcases over 3,000 companies and attracts over 100,000 visitors over three days from across the nation and overseas.

When Tuesday 20th August to Thursday 22nd August, 9am to 5pm Tuesday and Wednesday; 9am to 4pm Thursday. ADMISSION Free. Location: AgQuip Site, 134 Blackjack Road, Gunnedah 2380.

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146th 2019 Tamworth Show

When Three big days, Friday 30th August, Saturday 31st August, Sunday 1st September.

Venue AELEC Tamworth.

Admission: adult $16.50 per day, child $5.50 per day, aged pensioner $11 per day, family (2 adults, 3 children) $39 per day. Tickets are on sale at the Main Entrance to AELEC on show days. tamworthshow.com.au for more info.

focusinterview.

B E L L

&

T E D E S C H I

Bright Star Schubert, early Romanticist and musical genius of his time.

Bell and Tedeschi, two of Australia’s greatest performers in theatre and music.

What happens when two of Australia’s creative geniuses and performers team up to explore the romantic works of two creative geniuses from the 19th Century? ou get to hear four of the brightest stars on stage in an exploration of the timeless emotions of life, love and yearning.

On Saturday 31st August, Australia’s theatrical giant and living treasure John Bell joins pianist superstar Simon Tedeschi to channel the spirit of the romantic era’s great geniuses John Keats and Franz Schubert in their concert event Bright Star, at the Armidale Town Hall at 7pm.

Presented by the New England Conservatorium of Music and Musica Viva Armidale, Bright Star

by John Bell and Simon Tedeschi has received rave reviews around Australia, so this is a once only opportunity to see these music and theatre legends when they perform in Armidale on Saturday 31st August at 7pm.

Performing some of the most beloved poems of Keats, including Bright Star, Ode to a Nightingale, and La Belle Dame Sans Merci, and music by Schubert, including Ave Maria, Winterreise and Sonata no.18 in G major (Fantasie), Bell and Tedeschi share their insights into the enduring power of these timeless works, and the lives of the artists who created them.

Though Keats and Schubert never met, these contemporaneous geniuses of literature and music were kindred spirits: both died young, having loved a woman beyond his reach due to her superior social standing, and both created masterpieces which still resonate strongly today.

“It is story-telling for adults, heart-rending and sophisticated … Tedeschi is a true master of the pianoforte … [Bell’s] voice soars above the piano accompaniment and runs the gamut of emotions, from the faintest whisper to intense

Keats, one of the greatest Romantic lyric poets, died at 25.

grief to anger. It is a virtuoso performance, and the synergy between these two performers was obvious.” - StageWhispers, 2017 (Adelaide Festival Centre).

We spoke to pianist Simon Tedeschi about the upcoming performance in It is story-telling for adults, heartArmidale: rending and sophisticated…

This “Related Arts” Tedeschi is a true master project is a unique of the pianoforte… [Bell’s] offering from Musica voice soars above the piano La Belle Dame sans Merci, Keat’s great romantic ballad.

Viva. Schubert and Keats accompaniment and runs the on the same platform gamut of emotions, from the Are Australian changes and pined for more and when great is something Armidale faintest whisper to intense grief audiences receptive to minds wanted to go deeper than machines and audiences are looking to anger. this symbiosis of poetry production. In terms of piano repertoire, romantic forward to. How did you and piano repertoire music has never gone out of fashion, so to come to choose these sounding together? speak, but Schubert is special in that he generally two creative artists for Our experience has been most certainly yes.

In eschews flashiness and goes straight to the heart this programme? our troubling times, poetry the returning of of the matter.

It was primarily John’s idea, to be honest; John language to its pure roots is by its very nature Do you enjoy travelling to regional centres is an amazing “big idea” person, which is hardly radical, and music’s power to civilise is not for performances? It would surely be easier surprising, given his background. I jumped on surprising to anyone.

Poetry is inherently musical to catch a taxi to the Opera House, especially board immediately, because Schubert is perhaps if delivered well (as John does!) and music at considering that you both live in Sydney. my favourite composer and Keats one of my its greatest follows the sense of line that poetry Not only do we both enjoy it, both John and I favourite poets. excites in the listener. have devoted our careers to ensuring that arts is Would this program work with readings How receptive are school students and accessible by all. from Shakespearean plays and piano music teachers to this programme?

Are students inspired by them, eg Beethoven’s “Tempest” studying Romantic repertoire today?

Piano Sonata?

I think students today, as well as their teachers, Yes, it would - poetry and music have are craving genuine, artistic experiences that do often been coupled together, whether in a not sacrifice their message or integrity. We live in programmatic sense or in a more melodramatic Musica Viva Armidale and New England such a world of fakery and commodity fetishism sense, as with my other project with John - Enoch Conservatorium present Bright Star by John (to quote Marx!) and the beauty of art to lull a Arden by Tennyson/R. Strauss. Schubert’s greatest Bell and Simon Tedeschi. person to a sense of timelessness is unique. The output, the lieder or German song, are the Where Armidale Town Hall.

Romantic era is so much more than just deep embodiment of poetry along with music, so this When 7pm, Saturday 31st August. feelings and melodrama - it’s a time that mirrors program with John is entirely idiomatic for the Tickets www.trybooking.com/ZQSN ours in many ways, when people saw cataclysmic period and style.

More info NECOM 6788 2137.

New England focus. 11

focusinterview.

IN THE STUDIO

Isabelle GALLERY 126 PRESENTS IN THE STUDIO WITH LOCAL ARTIST ISABELLE DEVOS. ISABELLE EXHIBITS THROUGH GALLERY 126; SHE STUDIED ART FOR FOUR YEARS AT ART SCHOOL IN CANADA AND GRADUATED WITH A DOUBLE MAJOR IN PAINTING AND PHOTOGRAPHY.

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he focus was on building “The light is different here and so clear and knowledge and technique true in colour,” Devos states. until the final year, when Isabelle Devos has had her work chosen a large body of work was as a finalist in several Art Prizes, including exhibited formally. Since five years in the Country Energy Art Prize as then she has found ways well as the Norvill, Calleen and Tattersalls to include art making Art Prizes, winning the and the creative process Norvill Unpackers Prize throughout raising and the Armidale Still Life children and family life, Art Prize. while also working outHer work has been MANY TIMES EACH side of art making. exhibited in Sydney and DAY THE LIGHT, Her work has ranged Armidale and across NSW COLOUR AND from conceptual in both solo and group IMAGERY ENTERING photography in The exhibitions in commercial MY BRAIN THROUGH Insecurities Project, to and public art museMY EYES SENDS MY ums. Devos has recently performance art and SOUL INTO INTENSE been commissioned to eventually into painting DELIGHT AND JOY. complete a painting of the rural landscape in the UNE Boilerhouse to a simplified and tonal be unveiled later in the style. After completing year. Her work is in both artwork for a government artist project involving travelling to private and public collections in Canada, USA, Belgium and other parts of Canada to comRussia, Belgium and Australia. pare landscape painting, Devos found herself We caught up with Isabelle for a chat in her moving to Australia with her family. studio: Once in Australia, she reached out and “Many times each day the light, colour met other artists and eventually found herself and imagery entering my brain through my in the stunning beauty of the New England eyes sends my soul into intense delight and landscape. joy. It can be something quite simple and 12 New England focus.

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I PAINT EVERY WEEK, FOR ONE TO THREE DAYS, IN A BEAUTIFUL STUDIO BUILT BY MY PARTNER, MYSELF AND OUR CHILDREN AT THE BACK OF OUR GARDEN. ordinary that catches my attention and the light, composition and sometimes a deeper meaning that draws me further in.

"It is on long adventurous drives, frequent bush walks and morning walks around the neighbourhood where I get ideas for my next painting. I take quick snapshots on my phone to provide some memory of the vision, print them out during the week and let them grow into a giant pile in the studio, to be gone through during breaks from painting. A single sketch or drawing is made before I begin to map out a painting and try to paint that special place that made me stop and look.

"I paint every week, for one to three days, in a beautiful studio built by my partner,

myself and our children at the back of our garden. It is far enough away from the house to give me a sense of peace and stillness I need in order to focus and drift into a space that is creative and flowing.

"My work progresses slowly, building layers of colour, line and shadows until I am happy enough. It is a long process and takes time, but I enjoy the time it takes, as well as the various stages of being that a painting goes through.

"It is not all pleasure and delight, however, and many hours can be spent in frustration over not managing to elicit the exact colour and feeling that resides in my mind and the memory of the pleasure of the initial experience of the place.

"Exhibiting my paintings in a gallery or public space is the only way that I can share what I do. It is always absolutely thrilling to me when someone enjoys the painting so much that they purchase it and bring it home. I am always so pleased to share my work with others.�

New England focus. 13

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Heading: Peta Moore

Peta M O O R E

Artist Peta Moore is inspired by the country life, nature’s landscapes, being able to experiment and “create art differently”. A qualified teacher, Peta also offers art therapy for children and a space for like-minded people to gather together and share their creativity. There are some big plans on this artist’s drawing board for the 12 months, so we chatted with her about a few of them …

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i Peta. What’s your background in the New England area?

I was born, raised, and I have always lived on the west of the Great Divide.

Growing up in Western NSW, the landscape became ingrained in me.

My family and I moved to the beautiful Armidale region in 2017 - and we are loving the lifestyle here. Armidale has provided us with so many opportunities. I am in the early stages of setting up my small business, “Peta Moore Artist”, and I am NDIS registered and provide “Art Therapy” for children. I also teach workshops, as well as running my online business selling art prints, which will be launched in August - this is very exciting.

When/how did you first discover you had a talent for art?

I was in high school when I discovered that I enjoyed the space that art provided.

I have always enjoyed making and creating

14 New England focus.

something from my mind. In my early adult help foster technique and confidence and life, I dabbled in art, which I loved, so I encourage individual expression. decided to study art as a profession.

I love painting in acrylics and mixed media.

Your tertiary studies I have a large art book have included both a - just blank pages - that Bachelor of Education I have filled up over the and a Diploma in Fine years with ideas, art Arts. How do you attempts and “moments I feel very connected to the meld the skills you’ve of inspiration”. Anyone country, because the learned from this can start an art journal landscape offers so study into your day to at any age! I keep this much to artists. Light, day art practice? journal going as when composition, texture, I have been a teacher I embrace the mess of colour and form create a stir for 20 years and I have paint and creating an in me, and I feel passionate also been a student, artwork, I also embrace a about capturing all of this. so I know that art is healthy practice of a nona personal journey of judgmental joy. Treating technique, frustration ourselves to this time, and excitement! either on a daily, weekly Nothing is right or wrong when we are or monthly basis, gives others permission to expressing ourselves through art. Through do the same, which is especially helpful for my teaching training, I am able to provide children, those who have experienced loss, a structured environment for students to grief, depression and many other shadows in

their lives.

Your artwork shows a keen appreciation of nature and country landscapes. Why do you feel you’re attracted to scenes of this type?

I have grown up in the country, and I love the natural formation of our beautiful landscape. I feel very connected to the country, because the landscape offers so much to artists. Light, composition, texture, colour and form create a stir in me, and I feel passionate about capturing all of this.

What is your favourite medium to work with (and why)?

I love to experiment and work with acrylics and mixed media, because I enjoy the possibility of unfolding expressions of nature in the most abstract forms.

How would you describe your studio space?

My studio is new, and I will be making lots of changes as my business evolves. It is colourful and filled with all things, such as

bits of nature, artworks, vases and old rustic shapes. I have a “space” where I display all these bits, and it provides me with so much inspiration. This space in the studio is in the reception room, so I hope it brings joy to others as well.

The art studio provides a quiet, creative and sometimes messy space where art techniques can be explored - this may even include throwing paint on canvas or paper!

How important is it to you to share your knowledge with others?

I believe that everyone is on a personal journey, and I love to get together with all sorts of people, as well as other artists. I believe that our journey can be challenging, so I advocate self kindness and by sharing my art space and knowledge with others, I believe that it brings people together so we can explore a more compassionate relationship with nature, nurture, art and each other.

Everyone has an important story to tell, and some of these stories can be gently expressed through nourishing our most inner thoughts and expressing our experiences through putting a brush on paper.

What motivates you to enter your studio, pick up tools, and begin work?

When I enter my studio, I never quite know what I will create - it is the unknown

one-to-one adult art classes and watching artists develop technique and style over time.

A community idea is currently being discussed by a few people at the moment to bring like-minded people together on a regular basis, to share our stories, creative ideas with lots of food and wine. It’s a really simple idea … we are calling it “The Long Table” … with lots of food, laughter, stories and a campfire.

The guardian of our journey is a caring, supportive and uplifting environment of getting Everyone has an important together and enriching story to tell, and some of each other with our these stories can be stories and friendship. gently expressed through Who knows where nourishing our most this could lead … inner thoughts and maybe an exhibition, expressing our experiences art collaboration, art through putting a brush on paper. camps...

excitement of layering paint, composition and colour choices, as well as mark making, which is laying down different marks and not knowing what will pop off the page!

This brings so much joy to me, that some days I just leap into my studio to embrace the journey of the unknown. It is a safe, enriching and nourishing time for me, where I can “create art differently”.

What are your plans/goals for the rest of this year?

I am launching an online shop in the next few weeks … in August … and keeping up with my journal blog, that I hope will inspire others.

I am conducting a workshop with Sonia @ Melrose in Uralla at McCrossins Mill … this is the second workshop I will be teaching. (Sonia is about to open Melrose in Uralla, and we will be collaborating on art workshops in the future).

I teach Art Therapy on a one-to-one basis with children, and I am NDIS registered.

I am also very passionate about group and

The drought and other hardships means that many men and women on the land in the New England region are totally focused on making a living … and whilst we need to do this, we also need the energy, encouragement and friendships that can keep our positive energy going … so the “Long Table” is a place that we envisage can support this.

I would love to hear from anyone who would like to build on this idea.

Where can we see samples of/purchase your work, or find out more about you?

My website is www.petamooreartist.com I can also be found on Facebook and Instagram for more information. My art prints will be available in August online.

Thank you, FOCUS, for allowing me to introduce myself to the New England community!

Thanks Peta.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 15

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16 New England focus.

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Ruby Ruby is an Australian Red Kelpie LIVING HER BEST LIFE OUT ON THE FARM NEAR TAMWORTH NSW. Quickly rising to superdog status, we sat down and chewed the fat with her about all things life.

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ell us a little about yourself.

My name is Ruby. I’m a Red Kelpie. I live in Timbumburi near Tamworth NSW. We have a small cattle farm, with irrigation (when there is water). Lack of water is causing the humans to be potty mouthed.

We have cattle which are red. I can blame them for any crimes, as they are the same colour as me. I tell mum to go to Spec Savers, as it’s them - not me - causing the havoc.

Highlights of the farm are stinky springs and Dead Thing Gully.

You currently have 7,500 followers on Instagram. How do you feel about being an up and coming star?

I feel that being a star is something I was born to be. It’s about time free-thinking, strong willed, female redheads got a say in the world. I’m seen as an inspiration for the unfairly accused, as I am blamed for many mysterious unsolved crimes. Personally, I blame the cat - he’s the ringleader, but he is currently under witness protection on the humans’ bed, and can’t be interrogated.

How do you like to prepare for your photoshoots?

My preparation includes: a swim in a slimy green cattle trough or stinky springs, then layering on various dead things’ scents, finished off with a sprinkling of the selected manure of the day.

What’s your favourite job on the farm?

Favourite job is showing the red steers who is boss, border security; seeing off foxes, roos and visiting politicians. Following Mum on her horse called Mojo; he should be called

SlowMo - he needs a Redbull to get going.

What feeling comes over you when you see a young red steer not staying in line?

I see RED. They think they can muscle in on the leadership of the farm - stupid move on their part. Only room for one red leader.

How do you like to stay warm in winter?

Running amok is top of how to get warm, but we have wood shavings and straw in our kennels, and some very fashionable coats, which are now as stinky as us.

August is a big month for you. You turn four! How will you and the fam be celebrating?

Personally, I think a full on celebration is in order, and I’m sure some extra roo meat will come my way. Hopefully the fun police (Mum) will ignore the little working dog party we will hold in Dead Thing Gully. I’m banned from posting to social media about a party - something about it could go viral and turn into a wild party. I can’t see a problem with that.

Imagine you’ve been told off for doing something wrong. We’ve all heard revenge is a dish best served cold - how do you execute your plans?

Well, I turn on my best painted on ears, sneak off down the paddock and find a dead thing to strategically place on the verandah, as a silent but artistic expression of the unjustly accused. If that doesn’t work, an exploding dog bed on the lawn is a good protest statement.

You keep fit and healthy to keep up with demanding farm life. What’s your go to cheat day meal?

I have been known to just find laying

unattended yogurt, changed on your DENY DENY DENY IS homemade dips, the farm over the past 18 RULE ONE. BLAME THE scraps for the chooks, months? and a tray of sausages Drought has been CAT - RULE TWO. MOST for a BBQ. These all give bad. The humans did IMPORTANTLY, LIVE me a boost. I might add, sell the cattle, but have EACH DAY, TAKE TIME a bonus is sneaking the bought a few now. It TO SMELL THE ROSES cat food, but he guards was sad and too quiet.

OR SOMETHING DEAD. it with lethal ninja Us dogs have been moves. there beside our family Do you have any through it all. My IG siblings and if so, manager started posting who’s top dog? drought pics on my account, and suddenly Siblings are Abby - she is the clown, Lucy the worldwide support was amazing. We even who is the fall guy and old Indy - who dobs us had followers from around the world donate in to Mum. Better add Elliot the cat, but he’s to buy a bale, rural aid etc. A family in Wales more of an adversary. We are convinced he’s donated each fortnight to an Aussie drought planning world domination. Top dog - well, of appeal and also people started following course it’s me - just don’t tell Indy. from UK, US, Canada, Europe, Russia and After a big day, how do you like to relax?

Asia. They also donated to Australian drought Relax, hang on ... just Googling the appeals. This was all from seeing the drought meaning of that. pics of our farm and Tamworth.

What rules do you live by?

One amazing Instagram follower did a Deny deny deny is rule one. Blame the cat secret fundraiser behind our backs, and we rule two. Most importantly, live each day, take were able to buy a load of export hay for the time to smell the roses or something dead. remaining horses. We never met these people, Kelpies are very clever and capable. How but a dog never forgets. long did it take you to become a Jedi How can the public get behind everyone Master work dog? doing it tough out here?

I was born for it. I just had to learn to Anyone who wants to help, please donate ignore Mum’s directions. Developing painted to “Doing it for the farmers”, “Rural aid”, on ear is the most important working dog “Drought angels”, and “Buy a bale”. If skill and working out how to tune off to the you are in trouble - Lifeline, or one of our human Blah Blah Blah in the background. favourites - follow @the.naked.farmer Once the trial has been passed, one is there’s good links and it supports rural mental honoured master. To bring balance to the health. farm.

Thanks Ruby.

Your area is in severe drought. What’s Follow Ruby’s Insta: @ruby_reddog New England focus. 17

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pcyc ARMIDALE’S

competition

Deborah stevenson Armidale local Deborah Stevenson has a rather unique collection - a copy of every edition of New England FOCUS ever printed! Deborah believes keeping each edition shows the area’s evolving history and hopes one day to be able to share them with the greater population …

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i Deborah. How long come to the area - and why they leave; have you lived in especially with the drought and the way Armidale? things are at the moment.

I was born in The Mall has changed so much over Armidale. My husband, the years … I worked down the other end who’s a builder, and I of town, and the Mall was such a busy, moved away in 1978 to the Gold Coast for incredible place when I was young. It’s so a little while, but then came back - so I’ve disappointing these days; I really hope it can almost always lived here. get up and running again.

Why did you start collecting each edition How did you actually go about collecting of New England FOCUS? each edition - and tell us about the one My family has always you were missing for a been interested in long time … history. I worked at I often had to pop in to Anderson’s in my early the FOCUS office over the It’s really interesting to days but also had 20 years to pick up a copy see why people come to years in photography, I’d missed or misplaced. I the area - and why they so it was the history always make sure I get a leave; especially with and the photographs good, crisp copy to keep the drought and the that inspired me. I really sometimes the copies I had way things are at the thought they needed to were read and crumpled, moment. be kept as a record for so I’d make sure I replaced Armidale. those with a nice fresh Your copies of FOCUS one. are kept absolutely The only one I’d ever pristine in special binders. How do you missed was the very first issue - but I’ve just organise this? recently been given one.

I gather up a full year’s worth of FOCUS What do you intend to do with all of the editions and take them to a professional binders when you finish your collection? binder. They’re sewn into the case and then I don’t have any definite plans yet, but I labelled. want to make sure the whole set goes some What are some of the changes you’ve place where the people of Armidale have noticed in Armidale, as you’ve flicked access to them. I think it would be nice for through different editions over the the people from the early days to be able to years? come back and see part of their history.

It’s really interesting to see why people Thanks Deborah.

18 New England focus.

best

From the 31st May to the 12th July, the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) ran PCYC Armidale’s Best Barista Competition.

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he aim of the competition was to raise funds for the PCYC’s Nations of Origin event, which is a sport, cultural, education and leadership program held yearly during NAIDOC Week.

The program has four main components: reconciliation, education, cultural identity and sport. It is aimed at increasing school retention, with all participants required to have an 80 per cent school attendance to be eligible to participate. All participating sporting teams must consist of Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal

young people, with a ratio of 70:30 in the formation of the teams, and they will compete in four different types of sports - Rugby League, Football Fives (Soccer), Netball and Basketball.

We thank everyone for their support during this competition, and we are happy to announce that the winner of PCYC Armidale’s Best Barista Competition is ... Michael from Westside Café. Congratulations to Michael and the team at Westside Café.

Again, thank you to our local cafés and baristas that participated, and to our community members who showed their support.

focusinterview.

Professor Meet the new Vice Chancellor of the University of New England, Professor Brigid Heywood, who has just relocated to New England from Tasmania. Professor Heywood brings with her a passion for education and much experience in the tertiary education sector…

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i Professor Heywood.

Where do you hail from originally?

I hold an Irish passport thanks to my mother, who hailed from Kilkenny in Ireland. The name Brigid Rosaleen Anne O’Farrrell Heywood is a bit of a clue.

My UK passport is the gift of my father, who grew up in Manchester, England; his family were from Wales originally. I most certainly carry a rich strand of Gaelic DNA. I was born in Cottingham Road Maternity hospital in Hull in the East Riding of Yorkshire. I left to go to university at the age of 18.

Where did you complete your own tertiary education, and what subjects did you study?

My first degree was at Manchester University (UK), in Biological Sciences.

My Doctorate is from Liverpool University (UK).

In the Medical School I pursued a mix of topics, covering solid state chemistry, cellular processes, analytical electron microscopy, materials science and biomineralisation. My thesis title was “The localization of calcium in the odontoblasts of the permanently erupting incisor of the rat”.

Translated into plain English, that means I was interested in how your bones and teeth are formed and what disrupts that process in disease conditions.

You've held a variety of academic leadership roles, in several countries. What are some of the significant differences you've noticed between tertiary education across the globe?

What has surprised me over and over again is how similar the cultures of all universities are at their core.

The ones I have been fortunate enough to work in were all at different stages in a journey, but essentially a variation of the same journey

Quite a bit of my energy must be devoted to - quality, excellence, student experience, staff development, outreach, engagement with stakeholders and partnerships.

The differences have been subtle - the use of language, the architectures of governance, the dynamics of the student body and the focus of the academy. The defining element of each is perhaps the connection with community - at Keele in Staffordshire UK, it was very intimate and linked strongly to regional economic development. The Open University supported over 250,000 students when I was there, and the institution played a national role in offering education to those who could not access tertiary provision by another means.

Through the institutions I connected with in Africa and South East Asia, I observed relatively young universities opening up options for their local communities as part of an agenda for social development and economic opportunity.

That same core purpose was mirrored again in New Zealand at Massey, and at the University of Tasmania - a common thread, but with each one doing it slightly differently and all using the full power of education to play their part.

You're the new Vice Chancellor for the University of New England. Many readers may be a little unsure what the role of Vice Chancellor entails, so what will typically be involved with your new position on a dayto-day basis?

I am not yet sure what each day will look like either, but I can hazard an informed guess.

In essence, the Vice-Chancellor is the principal academic and administrative officer of the university. It will be my job to secure a financial base sufficient to allow the delivery of the university's mission, aims and objectives. I will also have to carry out certain ceremonial and civic duties on behalf of the university.

tracking quality and performance through a number of different lenses. There is also the

In practice, that means working with UNE staff.

I work closely with the In a very short time they Council, an executive have proven themselves to responsibility and pleasure of team and various stakebe dynamic, enthused and welcoming visitors from around holders and partners to committed to the cause of the world onto the campus. set the strategic agenda the university - and that is for the institution and very seductive. see it advance. On a daily I look forward to basis, it means time spent in a variety of ways meeting the communities which connect with with staff, students and alumni, leaders from and have expectations of UNE. I want to hear government, business, international visitors and what works and what can be improved to secure local communities, ensuring I understand what is mutual benefit. UNE is an important pivot for reimportant to each of them, and that I have comgional NSW, and I am keen to better understand municated the university’s goals and objectives in this new environment. an appropriate way.

And relocating to New England - I look forSo, each day is a mix of formal decision ward to exploring a part of Australia I have not making, meetings, or informal discussions with yet spent much time in. The contrast with Tasmavarious groups or individuals. Quite a bit of my nia is very interesting, and we look forward to the energy must be devoted to tracking quality and adventure of getting to know the countryside, as performance through a number of different lenswell as the coast. The scenery around Armidale es. There is also the responsibility and pleasure of looks stunning in the pictures. I am sure it will be welcoming visitors from around the world onto more so up close in person. the campus.

What are your professional and personal Some days I will travel to Sydney, Canberra or goals for the next 12 months? elsewhere in Australia, meeting other instituFirstly, to get to know the university commutional leaders and industry executives to discuss nity - the success of UNE must be grounded in and frame policy and define new partnership teamwork. I would like to refine and refresh the opportunities for UNE. I will also be stepping key strategic plans. I am inheriting a good solid off a plane on foreign shores to represent UNE, framework and must make good use of it. the state and by extension Australia when I visit I would also like to build a stronger communianother university or meet with international cations portal. The value of shared information governments and NGOS. should never be underestimated, and UNE has The great thing about the role is that no two great stories to tell both internally and externally. days are the same and you meet the most amazPersonally, I have set myself the goal of ing number of different people from all walks of creating a new home for my family and the cat, life. exploring the region, tackling the garden at What are you most looking forward to with Trevenna and participating in at least one print your new role and also, of course, makers workshop. relocating to New England?

Thanks Professor Heywood.

Actually, I look forward to starting the job and Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 19

Tour northwest de

It’s that time of the year again! THE 5TH ANNUAL TOUR DE NORTH WEST CHARITY BIKE RIDE in the beautiful New England countryside will be Sunday 27th October 2019.

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he event begins from the awardthey can develop the skills to find meaningful winning Peterson’s Guesthouse employment. They are proud to get young and Winery with three courses people “back on track” by developing strong, on offer. Try the leisurely 38km happy and healthy foundations that result in bike ride or a little more with the positive life pathways and full participation in 64km ride, or test your mettle their communities. on the full 92km course, which goes out to the The sponsors and organisers of the Tour landmark Gostwyck Church. All courses have a de North West hope to contribute to raising morning tea break at the scenic Blue Hole Picnic awareness of the BackTrack charity organisation Area, with light snacks, drinks and bathroom and promote the incredibly important work and breaks along the way. Plus, this year there will success they are achieving. be prizes for the first riders to cross the finish The major sponsor of the event is Chartered line in each distance! Mountain bikes are highly Accountants Australia & New Zealand (CAANZ). recommended (due to sealed and unsealed With over 115,000 Chartered Accountants roads). located throughout Australia If you’re a spectator and New Zealand, CAANZ rather than a rider, you has a strong representation can just register for of members in regional parts the lunch and watch of Australia. CAANZ are This year’s event raises funds for your family and friends passionate about providing a local organisation BackTrack, cross the finish line. variety of opportunities to their which is focused on helping This year we have a regional members, including young people who have reduced lunch only fee supporting them with local lost their way to reconnect for kids at just $15, community events to bring with education and which includes their people together. training, to ensure they kids’ lunch, ice-cream There is no way Roberts & can develop the skills to find and unlimited access to Morrow could organise this meaningful employment. a jumping castle and event without the help of other games. other sponsors and volunteers.

The fees to We also thank our sponsors participate, whether National Australia Bank and riding or not, are really good value. The rider MYOB Australia, as well as our supporters fee includes: a new quality cycling jersey, Peterson’s Guesthouse and Winery, Armidale cycling merchandise, a gourmet BBQ lunch, Cycling Club, Bullen’s Armidale Bicycle Centre, St morning tea, a complimentary drink voucher John Ambulance, Armidale Regional Council and and a donation to go to our charity partner. The Armidale Police. afternoon will include live music in the garden Register by the early bird deadline of 11:59pm and some other exciting entertainment.

Friday 27th September 2019 to go into the draw This year’s event raises funds for local to win one of two $200 Qantas travel vouchers. organisation BackTrack, which is focused on For more information, phone (02) 6774 8400 or helping young people who have lost their way to visit www.rm.net.au/tdnw reconnect with education and training, to ensure We look forward to seeing you there!

20 New England focus.

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C O M M U N I T Y B E N E F I T C O N C E R T F O R D R O U G H T R E L I E F – A s i s t e r s c h o o l s ’ i n i t i a t i v E

PLC Armidale is combining with PLC Sydney to perform A COMMUNITY BENEFIT CONCERT FOR A VERY WORTHY CAUSE CLOSE TO ALL OF OUR HEARTS IN THE NEW ENGLAND/NORTH WEST DROUGHT RELIEF. We speak with Principals Mrs Nicola Taylor from PLC Armidale and Dr Paul Burgis from PLC Sydney about the very special event to be conducted in August.

hy a concert and why now?

Mrs Taylor Regional NSW is in the midst of the most crippling drought since records began, and it is continuing to have a profound impact on families in so many ways, both in our school and our sister school, PLC Sydney, along with their businesses and communities.

We wanted to join forces and provide an opportunity to raise awareness of the impact of drought, raise funds for our regional communities through an activity which will bring joy and hope to people in rural and remote areas of the New England/North West.

We are acutely aware and are witnessing first-hand the drought’s prolonged effects on our families and friends, not only financially, but emotionally and socially as well, and we wanted to do something meaningful to assist.

Dr Burgis In reality, most people living in a metropolitan area take for granted the provision of basic commodities and services such as milk, bread, meat, vegetables and fruit, and the one common denominator enabling all of those products to thrive and

August, commencing at 7:30pm.

We are acutely aware and are On the recommenwitnessing first-hand the dation of the National drought’s prolonged Farmers’ Federation effects on our families (whose President, Fiona be enjoyed, is water. and friends, not Simson is a PLC Armidale Our staff and stuonly financially, but Old Girl), all funds raised dents at PLC Sydney emotionally and socially from our combined have heard about the as well, and we wanted to do initiative will be directongoing devastating something meaningful to assist. ed to the NSW CWA drought, so when Disaster Relief Fund, my PLC Armidale for disbursement to the colleague, Mrs Nicola needy families, businessTaylor, approached me to see what we could es and communities in the New England/ both do to provide some practical help and North West. hope to rural communities, we thought of a It is very befitting that two of Australia’s concert. oldest girls’ schools are rallying to support a Music is, in particular, the one area in rural women’s organisation with a similarly which both of our schools excel. So, the lengthy history. We were informed by the idea of a combined concert, showcasing NSW CWA organisation that when the the talents of students in both schools, was drought commenced in earnest in 2018, proposed and is now coming to fruition. their organisation itself raised over $11 What is “PARCHED”? And where will the million for families and communities all proceeds from the concert go? over NSW, affected by drought. Most of Mrs Taylor: “PARCHED” is the name that drought relief money has already been of the community benefit concert to be dispersed, and the organisation was in performed by the talented musicians of sister desperate need of a “top up” of fundraisschools, PLC Sydney and PLC Armidale. We ing dollars, so it seems that our concert has trust that the concert reaches out to our come at the right time. communities in the Armidale, New England How can people help? region, in Sydney and beyond, in support of Dr Burgis We're encouraging everyone those in a time of great need. “PARCHED” who can to attend our drought relief conwill be held in Lazenby Hall, University of cert, “PARCHED”, on Friday 9th August at New England, Armidale, on Friday 9th 7:30 pm at Lazenby Hall, University of New

England, Armidale, and/or people can donate via the PLC Armidale website at http:// www.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au/news/latest-news Mrs Taylor: Additionally, we are asking the community’s support of the Regional Boarders Drought Relief Fund, where donations can be directed to assist rural and remote families in meeting some of the educational costs for their daughters currently attending either PLC Armidale or PLC Sydney.

All donations are tax-deductible.

Already, our regional business community has been very generous in support of “PARCHED”. We are very grateful to eeveryone for their support.

We look forward to welcoming the community near and far to “PARCHED” on August 9.

“PARCHED” … a community benefit concert for drought relief. Friday 9th August at 7:30pm, Lazenby Hall, University of New England, Armidale. Tickets on sale now: $25 adults; $15 children/concession www.trybooking.com/BDHQU Contact Shona Eichorn, PLC Armidale - Director of Development P 6770 1700 E development@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

New England focus. 21

focus_contributor

WITH SUSIE DUNN

old

Icing

church

In 1862, a beautiful stone church was built in Walcha. ST ANDREW’S IS THE OLDEST BUILDING IN TOWN, BUT SADLY - IT’S IN NEED OF MAJOR REPAIRS. Nerida Hoy is one of a dedicated committee of nine residents committed to preserving an important part of Walcha’s history …

ON

Alice Cairns and Justine Kavanagh

CAKE

I’ve been thinking about the word “morale” lately … defined as “wellbeing that comes from confidence, usefulness and purpose”. Usually defiantly optimistic, I’ve privately been disturbingly downbeat lately and realised it was time to shake myself and look for that resilience we’re told to have.

It’s too easy to let an accumulation of “bad” news dominate, and there’s certainly some on the list - locally and internationally.

B

H

i Nerida. What’s your position with the Friends of the Old Stone Church committee in Walcha - and why did you become involved with the group?

I am the convenor of a group of nine enthusiastic people who wish to see this Heritage listed church with its priceless windows restored.

Mrs Coll King commissioned a report by Marc Grunseit, a stained glass expert. We have also had the stone work inspected by stone masons.

With their recommendations, we have sought to raise money. We also plan to seek a matching grant from the NSW Heritage Commission. As a parishioner and historian, I want to preserve this important part of Walcha and New England history.

What can you tell us about the history of St Andrew’s Church in Walcha?

A meeting was held in 1859 to discuss the erection of a suitable building for worship, and collections of £3000 were donated. The church was built in 1862 by Mr Alexander Mitchell, and Mr William Love was the stonemason who used locally sourced black basalt donated from Mr Jamieson’s property.

The original 1862 East window, telling the gospel in glass, was imported from Hardman & Co of Birmingham, England and given in memory of William Denne (1810 - 1862), the original selector of Tia River Station. The windows of St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney, installed at a later date, are by the same firm.

The Friends of the Old Stone Church have been busy raising funds to restore the church.

Where are the most urgent repairs needed?

The most urgent need is repair of the cracking of walls caused by the deterioration of the original

22 New England focus.

limestone mortar. All the windows need some work. Buckled panels need to be flattened, structural integrity to be restored, lost glass and paint to be repaired and replaced, and reinforcing renewed. Timber lintels, sills and frames will also need to be replaced.

Why does your committee feel it is so important to restore the church?

This is the oldest building in Walcha. It has been integral to the lives of many families. We want to see it used again.

How much money will you need to complete the necessary repairs, and how much funding have you received to date?

We launched our appeal in the Walcha Council Chambers on May 6th, and so far have received nearly one fifth of our $50,000 target.

How can FOCUS readers help?

Our aim is to raise awareness of this unique, historical place of worship through descendants, glass specialists, historians and other interested parties. We take every opportunity to promote our cause by participating in events in Walcha and beyond.

Donations can be made to Friends of the Old Stone Church: BSB 932-000 Account 100284339, via 25 Oxley Drive, Walcha 2354, or www.walchastonechurch.org Thanks Nerida.

Interview: Jo Robinson. Photo of committee members provided by James Levingston.

UT - someone close said, when things go wrong, “Well, that’s good - now we’re free to take another direction”. That’s not automatically abandoning everything we’re doing; it means looking strategically with fresh eyes, thinking differently. That can be invigorating. Ask Bernie Shakeshaft and BackTrack.

Now, happy, positive things. We’re past the shortest day, on the way to spring and not mentioned in Australia’s coldest places list. The musical Singin’ in the Rain at the Hoskins has been a joyous, positive take on what we hope will mirror its title. Terrific ADMS production all round, and Pat Bradley’s magic trick of actually making it rain on stage was a showstopper.

Perhaps we should reword “send her down, Huie” to “send her down, Pat”. Let’s be “happy again”.

In PLC’s function centre, the Fleece to Fashion team sent out cutting edge fashion, showing just how they can deliver. What energy, style and flair they created! Judge Akira Isogawa is a great supporter, and Bluey Merino plans manufacturing here. Gather the ambassadors to blitz it! [n.b. PLC is hosting Parched, a drought fundraiser at 7:30pm, August 9 at UNE’s Lazenby.]

The Central Mall opening of The Social Club (“where everyone’s a member”) is another demonstration of growing strength in the way entertainment and night life are developing, catering for fast growing demographics.

Australia’s been urged to take lessons from European examples, where retail shops open at 10 and close at 7 or 8, with differing food outlets open for lunch, carrying through to the later evening trade. Events’ creativity help make the magic. Should we follow other places opening on weekends and closing early in the week? These are pragmatic business decisions.

It’s interesting to note Melbourne is moving to close two city blocks to through traffic, with plans for other future closures. The world is moving to car-free CBDs. Before going into recess, NE Visions 2030’s

last speaker for the year was Michael Engeman, General Manager Costa Group - Tomato. An easy and engaging speaker, Michael gave a frank and thorough backgrounding to the company and its important Guyra operation, lifting employment to 700 in its next stage.

He underlined their use of water, the future of protected greenhouse agriculture and the hi-tech directions Costa is taking. Professor David Lamb’s earlier talk touched on similar prospects for local business and employment. Both underlined an exciting future if the challenges are taken up.

The times, they’re a’changing, and regional economies are taking stock to build on their strengths, with wise producers adapting to changing markets.

And the Visions for Armidale Creeklands association is assembling exciting information on possibilities of water conservation and usage worth talking to them!

NERAM continues delivering rewarding exhibitions, and events and crowds continue voting with their feet to attend. Special individual donors help put the icing on the cake: Bruce and Rose McCarthy have given $100,000 to refurbish the café kitchen, realising the importance and attraction of the café. Tim and Gina Fairfax have also donated substantially, funding an education officer to develop programs for local and remote schools over the next 18 months. With the efforts of the Friends of NERAM, such support helps fund needed initiatives. Current exhibitions include the lovely Biophilia, showing local Leah Bullen’s unusual international garden watercolours, plus a Barbara McKay Retrospective and Hadyn Wilson’s riff on the Hinton collection opened by SMH critic John McDonald. College on the Hill looks back at memories of the much-loved OTC. All draw people to the gallery. The inclusive Winter Blooming Festival celebrated diversity on July 13.

Balance good things happening locally against the drought, new imposed monetary pressures on the ARC and unrest within some schools in our important university. Believe a better future is do-able.

Susie Dunn.

focuscontributor

W I T H R O S S F R O M D A I LY R I T U A L A R M I D A L E

Blend

of the

month

SilverNeedles the Very Best of White Teas.

Baihao Yinzhen, also known as White Hair Silver Needle, is a white tea produced in Fujian Province in China. Silver Needle or Bai Hao Yin Zhen, or usually just Yin Zhen, is the Chinese type of white tea.

Met

Mall

in the

H

PIPRyan from The Facial Retreat

ow long have you lived in the New England? I spent eight years at boarding school and still find it hard to believe that I returned!

I’ve been back in the region for about 11 years now and love it!

What’s the best part about working in the Mall? It would have to be having the freedom, without three kids in tow, to have

a quick browse through the shops and see what’s happening in Armidale.

What’s a typical day in the life of Pip? Apart from the normal day in, day out of children and household duties, it’s setting up my new facial business, The Facial Retreat in the East End Mall ... Lots of phone calls, emails, Pinterest and Googling.

Where’s your choice for a bite to eat or great coffee? Piknic Portable Feasts! It’s right next door, quick, consistent and tasty!

A genuine Silver Needle is a white tea. As such, it is only lightly oxidised. The most sought-after productions are from the first flushes, which generally take place between late March to early April, when the year’s first new buds “flush”. For the production of Silver Needle, only the leaf shoots, i.e. the leaf buds before opening, are plucked. Unlike the plucking of green tea, the ideal time and weather for plucking white tea is a sunny morning, when the sun is high enough to have dried any remaining moisture on the buds.

What is Silver Tips Tea? Silver tips are delicate leaf-buds at the point of unfurling.

The most prized of all white China tea, exceptionally pure and natural, white silver tips undergo the least processing, retaining higher levels of antioxidants than other teas. They are also naturally low in caffeine.

What is Silver Needle Tea Good For? Silver Needle Health Benefits: Silver Needle white tea

Where

contains a number of bioactive chemicals, such as flavonoids, caffeine, fluoride and theanine ... The antioxidants in white tea protect the body and help with healing. They have comparable levels of the same antioxidants found in green tea.

Is there Caffeine in Silver Needle Tea? White Peony Tea - a white tea that is moderate in caffeine levels ... The highest grades of white tea with the lightest colour, like Silver Needle, are tippy teas; the tips and leaf buds contain more caffeine, because caffeine is produced by the plant as a defence against insects.

What does Silver Needle Tea Taste Like?

Widely esteemed for its delicate appearance, elegant sweetness and noble character, Silver Needle tea is comprised of pure, individually plucked tea buds harvested only in the early springtime. This tea’s sweet, nectar-like flavour and fruity aroma are examples of that varietal expression. At Daily Ritual, we have Silver Needle tea available.

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

New England focus. 23

24 New England focus.

T H E

H I S T O R Y

Rich in 165 years of history, THE TATTERSALLS HOTEL HOLDS MANY SECRETS FROM THE EARLY SETTLEMENT DAYS OF ARMIDALE ... If the walls could talk! What would they say?

A

fter extensive works to renovate the premises under guidance of the Cassidy family - what can surely be called a "jewel"

much of the rich history of Armidale and the New England region. In many ways the history of Tattersalls is synonymous with Armidale and its early settlement. In 1852, Samuel Cohen established "The House of All Nations" (just imagine!) on the Rocks in the New England’s River Gold Fields. Thomas crown, The "Tatts" and Ellen Malloy took over Tattersalls Hotel gleams that licence in 1854, and In 1852, Samuel Cohen with gold, glamour the iconic Tattersalls Hotel established ‘The House and sophistication … was born. Unfortunately, of All Nations’ (just let’s take a look at the Thomas, Ellen’s second imagine!) on the Rocks recently completed husband, died in 1857. By River Gold Fields. hotel. chance, Ellen’s daughter Thomas and Ellen Malloy Tattersalls Hotel has from her first husband, took over that licence in 1854, a long and proud Samuel Salter, Amelia and the iconic Tattersalls history in Armidale, (then 16) inherited land Hotel was born. stretching back to in Beardy Street, Armidale 1854. What do you from a "John Smith" in feel some of the key 1856. The licence was turning points in the transferred in the first hotel's history have been? week of 1858 to "The Wellington Inn" and has One of the great joys in redeveloping an operated there continuously since. iconic hotel such as the Tattersalls is discovering

New England focus. 25

T H E

H I S T O R Y

Amelia married William (Billy) Brereton in 1859, Ellen remarried George D. Cooper (her third husband) in 1862. Billy took over the Wellington in 1871, and in 1873 the old "Wellington" was razed, and a new three storey hotel opened in May 1874 and operated until 1884, when it was sold to Patrick Wade - who renamed it "Tattersalls Hotel".

As an aside, it is interesting to note the railway came to Armidale in 1883, connected to Queensland in 1888 (politicians, please note), and Armidale was proclaimed a city in 1885. The numerous owners of the "Tattersalls" brought a number of "firsts" to Armidale: cast iron lace balconies, acetylene gas lighting, and with

26 New England focus.

remodelling in the Art-Deco style in 1936 - 37, it was connected to the new city sewerage system and the first electric lift installed. Those additions included 25 bedrooms on the first floor, 29 bedrooms and a magnificent dining room with Tallowood floor for dancing on the second floor, lining the stairway with Walnut plywood and Art-Deco pressed metal ceilings were installed in many areas.

Following the death of then owner, Robinson, the hotel became very rundown by the 1950s.

In 1977, renovations aimed at increasing turnover were undertaken, including an arcade of shops on the western boundary, from Beardy

Street Mall towards Cinders Lane. The arcade was reclaimed in 1995 by then licensees Brian and Julie Hilton.

In 1996, the hotel was purchased by the UNE Students Union and in 2006, sold at auction to Arm Pub Unit Trust owned by the Hendrys and Cassidys. Mr. James (Jimmy) Dent was appointed licensee.

Following several upgrade options, John and Annette Cassidy took over full ownership of the unit trust in 2016 and decided to proceed with

a total re-development of the hotel in Art-Deco style in 2018.

Why do you feel Tattersalls has stood the test of time and is still operating as a successful hotel after 165 years?

The Tattersalls has re-invented, remodelled and refurbished itself over its 160 odd years. It has always been known as the "The Home of the North" and the social centre of Armidale, with its central location walking distance from parks, cathedrals, shopping centres and courthouse.

T H E

R E N O VA T I O N S

Speaking with John Cassidy Jnr., he tells us about the works that were undertaken on the hotel.

T

he recent renovations at the hotel have been the talk of the town.

What have been some of the most noticeable and needed changes to the building?

One of the biggest changes we had to make was the bring the hotel into the 21st Century.

We have replaced every piece of electrical wiring in the hotel from the ground up, every piece of plumbing, every air conditioning duct, and even the sewer main which ran under the whole hotel - which was a huge challenge.

Other major works included excavating the rear of the old hotel where we had the bottle shop in preparation for the new beer garden.

Here we found the two big old kerosene tanks, and we found everything that had been dumped, buried and stored underground at the back of Tatts for the last 140 years!

We then had to get environmental soil testing done, to ensure we removed the kerosene tanks properly ‌ from what we have been told (although unverified) there may have been an old fuel station too at the back at one point in time.

Why was Art-Deco chosen as the style for the hotel?

In 2016, Annette, John Jnr. and I decided to redevelop the iconic building to its former glory, choosing to enhance the Art-Deco theme throughout. We strongly believed Armidale need-

The Tatts was one of the most successful hotels during the 1930s and the Great Depression in Australia - so

much so, that we have

on record the beer ed a boutique destinaSo, to choose an era consumption records tion hotel, genuine fine when this hotel was so signed o by the publican of dining and events venue. successful and use that the time.

Sticking to the theme as the design base was of Art-Deco was one very important. We were thing we really had to also really fortunate that perservere on during the when renovations we construction process. The Tatts was one of the completed in 1996, they did not remove original most successful hotels during the 1930s and the details and fixtures that remained from that Great Depression in Australia - so much so, that era - they just covered over them; for example, we have on record the beer consumption records the pressed metal ceilings and the floors. Which signed off by the publican of the time. The is why some of the early works took so long, as records show the huge drop and resurgence in we didn’t know what to expect when we started numbers. It was incredible to see how much beer peeling back the layers. was sold in the Great Depression!

New England focus. 27

Our

People B E N

D A V I E S

G E N E R A L

M A N A G E R

What does the role of General Manager entail? I have been in Australia for 13 years now, and my recent previous role was Group Executive Chef and General Manager with the PowerHouse group in Tamworth and Armidale.

I have a deep knowledge of the northern NSW region.

My background as a chef has seen me awarded with Michelin Stars at three of the places I have worked in Europe. I recently joined the Tattersalls group in the role of General Manager; the opportunity to work at a distinct hotel like this in regional Australia really blew my mind. My vision for this place is to put it on the hospitality map in Australia as a premier boutique hotel outside of a metropolitan area. The Tatts is an outstanding establishment filled with Australian history, and we are so grateful that the Cassidy family has allowed it to happen.

28 New England focus.

J A M E S

D E N T

L I C E N S E E

HEATHER BENFORD A D M I N I S T R AT I O N

M A N A G E R

James, how has the process of seeing the hotel transform over the years been for you? From being a bartender back in my uni days to now, there have been huge changes at the Tatts.

No longer the student nights of old, we are now a slick new venue with heaps of food and beverage opportunities. Being involved in the refurb and now working in the hotel has been an exciting journey.

What do you enjoy most about working with

What are patrons going to love most about this new iconic destination in Armidale? Stepping into the Tattersalls Hotel is really like stepping out of Armidale and into a city hotel. The whole experience from ordering your favourite beverage to having a great meal and staying in the hotel is really like a mini-break in itself. With times being pretty hard in the region, this is just the place where you could come in and forget the real world just for a moment by treating yourself.

new hotel? The Governor's Suite! It is beautiful

a family owned business? I love the values that the Cassidys instill into the whole team; and that carries through with everyone who works here there is a real family environment.

What would be your favourite part of the and by far my favourite. I have had the priviliege of staying there and loved it. With my wedding coming up soon, my family will all be travelling from the UK and will certainly be staying here the night of the reception, which we are so excited to be holding at the Tattersalls.

Our

People K IER A MORCELLET H O T E L

S E R V I C E S

M A N A G E R

SAMANTHA ROWBOT TOM E V E N T S

C O O R D I N AT O R

How will your team be ensuring that the guests receive excellent care continually? Communication is the key - just a greeting with a smile and making anyone who walks in feel welcome is the start of taking care of our guests in this new “home away from home”. Training and learning to anticipate will be skills to focus on.

What type of events are you hoping to attract? Everything! We have a great team here; nothing is unachievable.

From weddings to corporate functions to booking your next birthday party, we can handle it all! We have some of the best facilities around that will not disappoint.

What are some of the perks of staying at the hotel (other than the location and gorgeous fit out)? The look on people’s faces when they walk in knowing what it used to look like and seeing how it now looks gives enormous pleasure. There is usually a story that gives the connection too. Staying the hotel reveals just how comfy the beds are. There have been plenty of comments on the good night’s sleep and décor in the rooms complemented by the private guest areas upstairs like the Lounge with cosy fire, or the sunny front room overlooking Beardy Street.

When it comes to event planning, what are some of your stand out abilities to offer guests? I would say that I have a true invested interest in exceeding people's expectations. I get genuine joy from delivering what people have envisioned and then some.

Why should we host a function at the Tatts? The effort and execution that has gone into every aspect of Tattersalls is absolutely carried through when it comes to our functions. Don't delay; give us a call and let us tailor made your next event.

JEAN LUC MORCELLET E X E C U T I V E

H E A D

C H E F

Having been with the hotel for some time now, what are you looking for forward to in the future with the Tattersalls Hotel?

Having been in the New England region for nearly a year now, it has been interesting to work out how to deliver great quality for a reasonable price. I am looking forward to rolling out the new menu and creating our enticing specials.

What local produce can we find on the new menu? There really are four seasons here, and it is really exciting to work through these changes and discover the amazing local products, from truffles to lamb, beef and organic vegetables specially grown for us. I am always on the look out for more local culinary treasures to add to the menu.

You were featured on the Sydney Weekender - how did you feel about that? It was a great to have the Tattersalls Hotel and Cassidy family recognised for this gem in such a regional area.

New England focus. 29

T H E

N E W

H O T E L

It’s not Difficult to find the Tattersalls Hotel in the Middle of Armidale.

J

ust head for the pedestrianised area of Beardy Street, a stone’s throw from the two cathedrals that make this cosmopolitan town a city. Drop your bags and park your car in either the Cinder’s Lane (three hour limit) or Moore Street (unlimited) car park and explore the area to find some treasures on foot, if you haven’t booked your own parking space at the back of the hotel in advance!

The reception is located halfway along the alley between Cinders Lane and Beardy Street. Contact us as you arrive, and we will meet you with the luggage trolley and show you the way.

As you check-in at Tattersalls Hotel, you might be mistaken for having arrived at a hotel in the centre of a major city - in fact,

30 New England focus.

some of our guests have commented how stepping into Tattersalls transports them away from Armidale in the blink of an eye.

Be prepared to sit back and enjoy the timewarp with all the modern-day needs.

Lovingly restored and in a continuation of the Art Deco-theme on the ground floor, the accommodation levels have had quite a change from the bedrooms and shared bathrooms people would have used previously.

Hand-made carpeting, starting at the bottom of the stairs next to the reception, lead up to the lovingly restored original staircase to the first floor of accommodation and exclusive guest-use only lounge just off the enclosed balcony over looking the Mall, where you can soak up the sun on the chillier days, whilst sheltering from the wind.

O U R

E

R O O M S

Our Accommodation Offerings

ach of our rooms has its own en-suite shower and is provided with a bag of premier toiletries. The mini-bar is well-stocked with premium spirits and mixers under the welcome centre, where you can also quench your thirst with a hot beverage.

If there is time, watch a wide variety of channels and movies on the in-room entertainment centre, but don’t forget to set your JBL alarm. Wake up calls can also be arranged.

The accommodation options are varied and sophisticated, suitable for family staycations or more formal occasions such as weddings, parties and conference events.

There are 24 rooms, including two luxuriously appointed suites with large free-standing bathtubs, one family apartment, four family rooms, three king/twin rooms, one king single and 13 queen rooms. All guests enjoy access to the private guest lounge that features a roaring fireplace for those cooler New England days, computer hub and private enclosed balcony for soaking up the sun and enjoying some quiet time overlooking Beardy Street and up to North Hill.

Set over two floors and each with natural light, the various configurations of rooms are as follows:

CHANCELLOR’S & GOVERNOR’S SUITES With one suite on each floor, if you’re needing more me-time and me-space, look no further than our light and bright north-facing rooms overlooking the quiet pedestrianised portion of Beardy Street. Planning on spending a week or two, or perhaps need a bridal suite? There are plenty of cupboards, a king bed and a bath, as well as a shower with double vanity in these two rooms.

With richly appointment lounge furnishings featuring dusty pinks, royal blue, and earl grey, through to elegant gold door furniture and accents, the elegance of the hotel shines through ... Marquetry inlaid coffee tables with gold legs, gold lamp fittings and fixtures

throughout to match.

The bathrooms are appointed with semi frameless showerscreens, carerra marble wall tiles and counter top porcelain basins.

FAMILY APARTMENT Thinking of a mini-staycation but no idea what to do with the kids? Bring them too!

Perhaps you’re tired of restaurant food and prefer to cook? This apartment has all the mod-cons that make it a home away from home, with its open-plan kitchen and lounge area. Book into The family apartment with its twin and queen beds, easily suitable for four people.

FAMILY ROOMS With a choice of restaurants downstairs, there’s no need for a kitchen too! Kids are

welcome and there’s plenty of space in our family rooms, some of which can also take supplementary trundle beds, but need to be booked in advance.

KING ROOMS Like to stretch out and not feel the edge of the bed - not a problem in the king rooms!

Can be broken down into twin singles if you are travelling with family or friends QUEEN ROOMS Being the majority of our room configuration, there is nothing “standard” about these rooms with their décor, minibar, compli-

mentary hot beverage options and en-suite bathrooms. Check-in to enjoy their sumptuous comfort.

KING SINGLE This unique room’s only difference from the other accommodation is that you are not paying for extra space needed when travelling as two! Great for the lone traveller in need of the same comforts as the rest of the hotel, this room is ideal for a longer stay without the excesses. Quick! Book before someone else gets this great deal.

New England focus. 31

R E S T A U R A N T & F U N C T I O N S What are the different experiences available at Tattersalls?

The property has truly reimagined itself to cater for many types of guests. Tattersalls is lucky enough to offer a variety of dining opportunities, from pizzas in the Garden Bar during warmer months to great food in the restaurant or cafĂŠ, with a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, under the watchful eye of our French Executive Chef Jean Luc. Whether you're looking for coffee and cake, a

32 New England focus.

cocktail in the Ladies' Lounge, a quick bite in the Front Bar or have more time to enjoy the full dining experience in the restaurant, there's a place for you. Don't forget the Garden Bar is always open and you can choose to brave the cold and eat outside too. If your gathering is slightly larger, the Function Room caters for both buisness and leisure, with tantalising delegate day packages and special menus available. Perhaps a little flutter in the poker machine room will complete the experience.

C H E F P R O F I L E Jean-Luc Morcellet "I may be a French chef, but I don't really do much French cuisine! Over all the restaurants I have run, I have developed dishes that really work well. Sometimes it's the simplest of things, done properly."

Having worked in many countries around the world, Jean-Luc has come to the Tattersalls Hotel to bring his vast knowledge and experience to the foodies of the New England and further abroad.

O P E N I N G H O U R S FRONT BAR 10am until late COCKTAIL BAR 5:30pm until 10pm GARDEN BAR 10am until 10pm RESTAURANT 12pm - 2pm and 5:30pm until 8:30pm BREAKFAST 7am to 10am, 7 days FRONT BAR SNACKS 12pm - 2pm, 7 days

New England focus. 25

social scene.

Frost Over Barraba Arts Festival

PH OTOS

BY

SU E

RE T SCH L AG

Hats off to Country Festival Tamworth

St Mary of the Angels, Guyra Centenary Dinner

P H O T O S

34 New England focus.

B Y

J O H N

S H E R I D A N

eats New England

NO.18 COFFEE HOUSE

BISTRO ON CINDERS

MEXICAN QUINOA SALAD quinoa, sweet corn, black beans, onion, avocado, tomato and chilli (optional) 18 Lichfield street, Tamworth.

Pancakes.

14 Cinders Lane, Armidale. Phone 6772 2828.

THE LONGYARD HOTEL

THE PIG & TINDER BOX

Wingham Reserve 750 g ribeye on the bone with chips and garden salad.

10/12 Ringers Rd, Tamworth Phone 6765 3411. Open seven days.

Twice cooked lamb ribs with tamarind dressing, labne and sesame.

429 Peel St, Tamworth. Phone 6766 1541.

ARMIDALE CITY BOWLING CLUB

CAFÉ PATISSERIE

Chicken Schnitzel.

92 - 96 Dumaresq Street, Armidale. Phone 6772 5666.

Ruby choc mousse dome, white peach centre on a sablé biscuit.

80 Rusden Street. Phone 6787 4040. Open Wed - Sun, 8am - 4pm.

New England focus. 35

Norfolk

FOOD festival I S L A N D

Norfolk Island has in recent years grown into a popular foodie destination, offering locally grown, fresh, organic produce which is picked and cooked on the same day. This is the real paddock to plate experience that you are sure to enjoy.

T

here are over 20 eating-out places for you our Pitcairn and Whaler ancestors. Norfolk is one of the few on Norfolk Island. These boutique cafés and places outside of the U.S.A. who still celebrate this day. Guests restaurants offer a variety of delicious dishes are welcome to attend the morning church services, then enjoy made from the freshest ingredients during the a sumptuous buffet lunch of local traditional dishes. food festival. Add to that mix fresh fish, local Thursday 28th - Celebration Dinner - 6pm for 6:30pm. beef and pork and small boutique products The Bounty Lodge Homestead in Ferny Lane. such as coffee, honey and cheese.

Taste your away around Norfolk Island at the Celebration TASTE Norfolk Island, 25th - 28th November, is an annual Dinner. A relaxed degustation menu will showcase fresh celebration of food, culture and lifestyle. It is set against the produce from all corners of our bountiful island. Mingle with stunning backdrop of our beautiful island other guests amongst the landscaped home and is a culinary experience not to gardens, before taking your seat for the be missed. final courses of the evening.

During the Norfolk Island Food Festival Taste Norfolk Island Gift Bag During the Norfolk you will also experience the celebrations All festival package holders will receive Island Food of Thanksgiving Day. an exclusive gift bag on arrival, with a Festival, you will Norfolk Island is one of the few selection of locally produced gifts and also experience places outside of the U.S.A. to celebrate souvenirs. Included will be all your festival the celebrations of Thanksgiving. vouchers and festival itinerary, together Thanksgiving Day. Join us for what promises to be a with exclusive vouchers and offers for food bountiful week of delicious food and fun festival visitors. at the 2019 Norfolk Island Food Festival.

FESTIVAL ADD-ON OPTIONS: PROGRAM OF EVENTS: MASTERCLASS with celebrity chef Monday 25th - Cocktails on the Green 5pm - 7pm. The Dominique Rizzo - Monday 25th November, 11:30am at the Historical Golf Club at Kingston.

Local, Taylor’s Road. Limited spaces.

Enjoy a selection of delicious hot and cold canapés, Dominique Rizzo is one of Queensland’s leading female highlighting the local food with a variety of beer and wines, chefs who creates purely delicious, healthy and real food cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages as you mix and mingle recipes that inspire people to make a change for the better, with other festival goers. while still loving their food.

Tuesday 26th - Taste Norfolk’s Bounty Festival Night Join Dominique for a Masterclass you won’t forget.

- 5:30pm 'til late. The Old Gaol in World Heritage MASTERCLASS with celebrity chef Matt Golinski - Tuesday Kingston.

26th November, 11:30am at the Paradise Hotel and Resort.

You will have a bountiful "Taste” sensation from the Limited spaces. many food stalls offering mouth-watering creations. This Matt Golinski is a highly regarded, professional chef with is street food, island style, with a bar service and and live a passion for creating cuisine using fresh, seasonal and local entertainment. ingredients. Matt has worked as executive chef at some Wednesday 27th - Thanksgiving Day Lunch - 12:30pm. of Queensland’s leading restaurants and founded his own The Local in Taylor’s Road. catering company.

Thanksgiving Day is a celebrated tradition passed down from Join Matt for a Masterclass you won’t forget.

36 New England focus.

Trail run with altitude The Duval Dam Buster Trail Run (DDB) in Armidale NSW, in the heart of the New England high country, is set to bring trail runners of all abilities to the region on Sunday 22nd September 2019. The event, in its second year, is hosted by the Armidale Amateur Athletics Club and consists of four running distances - 30 km, 15 km, 8 km and 3 km. There is something for everyone of all ages and abilities, with the 3 km open to children, adults and families.

The event will start and finish from the picturesque Dumaresq Dam Recreation Area, 12 km from Armidale. With a starting point at 1,000 m above sea level, the 15 and 30 km runners will take on the challenge of a 400 m climb up to Mt Duval to 1,400m above sea level, the highest peak in the region. The course is varied, with competitors taking in the beautifully forested Mt Duval on single tracks and fire trails.

Join us in September and take on the challenge of the DDB; experience some beautiful high country scenery and local hospitality. Entries are open! Be quick though … some events sold out in 2018! Register online: duvaldambuster.com.au

Duval Dam Buster Trail Run 3/8/15/30KM TRAIL RUN MT DUVAL ARMIDALE NSW 22 SEPTEMBER 2019

Run Australia’s highest city in Armidale and get some altitude!

@duvaldambuster facebook.com/duvaldambuster

duvaldambuster.com.au

focusinterview.

Voodoo

town A unique collaboration between Tamworth local Brent Larkham and German musicians Uwe Lorenz and Fabian Konig has resulted in Voodoo Town - a band that refuses to be confined by any one genre of music. Voodoo Town’s first single, “Glory Dayz”, has received significant airplay since its release in April - but keep an eye out for the band’s upcoming album.

H

i Brent. What’s your relationship with Tamworth?

I grew up in Tamworth. My family moved here in 1977, and I’ve been here ever since.

I’ve played here in bands, been involved in the music industry, the engine and motor industry … and it’s basically been where I’ve called home for most of my life. Except for the part where I lived in Europe!

How did you, Uwe Lorenz and Fabian Konig all get together, considering they both live in Germany?

I lived in Spain for 20 years. The music production company I was working with teamed up with another production company from Germany, who just happened to be these two guys. We actually recorded quite a number of things, and had quite a few successes, before we even met!

One day we were discussing things, and they suggested I go up to Hamburg to do a show … so we could finally meet. So, I trundled up to Hamburg, did a few shows with the guys - and the rest is history, I guess. We hit it off straight away in a writing capacity - that was around seven years ago now.

I moved back to Australia nine years ago.

How does that work logistically for you guys, when it comes to writing and recording?

We use the internet a lot - I have a recording studio at home here, and we do a lot of back and forth with things. When I go back over to Germany to do the recording properly, that’s when we also bounce final ideas off each other.

We recorded a full the rock, the pop, and GLORY DAYZ WAS FILMED album in January over because I Iived in Spain for AROUND TAMWORTH TOO, there in ten days; it a long time, there’s a lot of STRANGELY ENOUGH was an intensive ten flamenco influence in our - EVEN THOUGH IT days! And, it was as songs as well. The Producer FEATURES AMERICAN CARS cold as Hell! When I comes from a dance music AND STUFF. MY FATHER HAS left Australia, it was 43 background, so he’s thrown QUITE AN INTERESTING degrees in Tamworth in a lot of European dance CAR COLLECTION! AND - HE and - 7 degrees there. hits, and the guitarist is a LET ME DRIVE THEM! I looked right out of rock guitarist who can play place with my tan! anything.

So yes, we write It’s a wonderful thing online - it’s a small when you get to a song world musically these days - but we do record and you know you’re not stuck to any genre when we’re together. and can just do what makes the song sound The single you released recently, Glory good. That’s what we’re dedicated to - being Dayz - was that one of the songs recorded true to the song. during that ten-day period?

Glory Dayz has had a lot of airplay in both Yes, absolutely. Glory Dayz was one of the Australia and Europe. Were you surprised beautiful songs that came out of that particular at how well it’s been received? stint. It’s a great song - we had a lot of fun Yeah! It’s always surprising … and it’s recording it. We could all sort of look back on wonderful. It’s always wonderful to be accepted our youth and the crazy things we got up to. for modern day radio - especially when there’s That’s what it’s about - remembering the “glory so much to choose from. We’ve had a lot dayz”. of airplay in England, Spain, Germany and It’s a bit difficult to pin down the band’s throughout Europe. We’ve yet to be introduced sound … would you say the multicultural to the United States, but I’m sure that will come elements from the different countries with time. you’ve all lived and worked in play a role We’ve had a great response in Australia; I here? think people can probably relate to what we’re Certainly. These days, music is very different doing. It sounds modern, but it’s got true - genres seem to be all mixed together. It’s a stories. That’s one thing that country music wonderful thing musically! Because I grew taught me - you can actually have a story in a up in Tamworth, I had a lot of country music song that has meaning. influences, although I spent most of my youth Glory Dayz is the first single off your in a rock band. So, you’ve got the country, upcoming album, Head Over Heelz. Do you

have a release date for the album at this stage?

It should be around August/September. I’ll be touring over in Europe in September, so the album should be well and truly out before then.

The next single to come off the album is called Cool Karma, and it will be accompanied by an awesome video clip recorded around Tamworth.

Glory Dayz was filmed around Tamworth too, strangely enough - even though it features American cars and stuff. My father has quite an interesting car collection! And - he let me drive them!

Some things were recorded in a paddock in Germany as well - rather than bringing the guitarist out here for a couple of shots. You know - there aren’t that many paddocks in Germany, so that’s not as easy as it sounds!

What are the best platforms for us to have a listen to and purchase your music?

You can jump on iTunes, our Facebook page (Voodoo Town), and there are videos on YouTube and plenty to see.

What are your plans for the next year or so?

There’s the album release and the touring of course, and Voodoo Town will also be touring Australia in Easter 2020. We’ll definitely be touring this area - the guys have been here before; they love Australia, love the Tamworth way of life, love the kangaroos and they definitely want to come back, spend some time here and enjoy the people again.

Thanks Brent.

Interview: Jo Robinson.

New England focus. 37

38 New England focus.

focuseditorial. editorial editorial.

S P A R E

A

P A R T S

P U P P E T

T H E A T R E

p r e s e n t s

Tamworth Regional Entertainment Conference Centre

new razztwizzling adaption of Roald Dahl’s very irreverent classic, The Twits takes you into the world of grumpy old couple, Mrs and Mrs Twit, who haven’t had a good thought or done a kind thing in years. They like nothing more than dreaming up terrible tricks to play on each other.

They are bound to put a grizzly grin on your face, Thursday, August 15 at 12:30pm and 6pm at Tamworth Regional Entertainment Conference Centre (TRECC)!

Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s director, Michael Barlow (Nobody Owns the Moon, Fox, Miss Lily’s Fabulous Feather Boa), said that The Twits is a classic Dahl comedy of a pair of horrible bullies getting their just desserts in the end.

“Mr and Mrs Twit are terrible people but very funny characters, and it’s so satisfying seeing

Muggle-Wump and the Roly-Poly Bird outwit them,” he said. “Roald Dahl has a special gift for making fun of adults who treat children unfairly, and our heroes can only win by breaking the rules and playing a few tricks of their own. As laugh-out-loud entertaining as The Twits is, it is a great show for encouraging us all to think about how we treat each other.”

The Twits is a ringbeller adventure of scrottiness and goodness, rebellion and justice.

The show’s gloriumptious blend of comedy and puppetry is the perfect way to have a whoopsy wiffling time this summer with the whole family.

Drag the chiddlers away from the telly telly bunkum box and join Spare Parts Puppet Theatre for this razztwizzling adaption of The Twits - Roald Dahl in his purest form - unsentimental, grotesque and a lot of fun!

The Twits is co-created by Humphrey Bower (Tales from Outer Suburbia) and Michael Barlow, designed

by Leon Hendroff (Nobody Owns the Moon, Fox,

A PERSON WHO HAS GOOD THOUGHTS CANNOT EVER BE UGLY - ROALD DAHL, THE TWITS.

Moominpappa at Sea, Rules of Summer) and Perth comedian Sam Longley as assistant director.

All the characters in The Twits are played by highly experienced performers, Jessica Harlond-Kenny (Hachiko, The Velveteen Rabbit, Harebrain) and Fringe World’s Martin Sims award-winner, Geordie Crawley.

Spare Parts Puppet Theatre is one of the longest running theatre companies in Western Australia and is Australia’s flagship puppetry company. Its extensive annual program includes four metropolitanperformance seasons, industry training and puppetry workshops, and an extensive touring program across regional WA and the nation.

For all things Roald Dahl and even more “Dahlisms” go to www.roalddahl.com

Thursday, August 15 at 12:30pm and 6pm at TRECC. Recommended age: five years+ and their adults. entertainmentvenues.com.au

New England focus. 39

wellness

focus feature.

and

40 New England focus.

focusinterview.

T A M W O R T H

T10 RUNNING FESTIVAL Now in its 46th year, the T10 Tamworth Running Festival will be held this year on August 4. Why not grab your family and friends and take part in something that’s both fun and active!

H

ow long has the T10 Tamworth Running Festival been running?

This is the 46th year - one of the longest running fun runs in Australia.

What will the participants need to complete through the course?

They simply need to decide which event they would like to enter and register at tamworthrunningfestival.org. au After this they can show up on the day armed in their comfiest pair of running shoes and get outside and get active.

Many parents are choosing to run with their primary or high school aged children to introduce and encourage them to the world of exercise. Strollers are welcome.

Water will be available on the course at water stations with paper cups. If runners would like to bring their own water bottles for the end of the race, they can re-fill them at water tanks provided on the day. We are going green this year - so for the first time we will have recyclable

cups available, rather than plastic bottles.

What makes the T10 event so great for the participants?

The Peel Valley Lions Tamworth Running Festival is totally inclusive. We love first timers, we love kids, and we have a huge age range of participants.

This year the Hurcum family will have three generations competing.

It is relaxed and fun, with something for all fitness levels and ages.

What makes this year’s event different from previous years?

We have a raft of amazing new sponsors this year. It’s a tough dry time and despite this, the Tamworth business community continues to support local events. It’s a credit to our region and goes to show how even small businesses can make a huge impact in keeping our community ticking over - even in the dry.

This year we are making a concerted effort to leave a minimal environmental footprint. No plastic.

What other events are available throughout the year?

Tamworth Triathlon Club runs a series of Summer Triathlons and Winter

Duathlons. We are a family club that encourages all ages and fitness levels to take part in our activities.

Duathlons are run once a month in winter at Kootingal. The Summer Triathlons are held at Kootingal Pool every two weeks.

Our ethos is to encourage friendship, fun and health in our community.

How can the community get more information and sign up?

Tamworthrunningfestival.org.au or the Peel Valley Lions Tamworth Running Festival Facebook page.

Event takes place Sunday 4th August.

MARSHALLING TIME 15 minutes before each race.

HALF MARATHON STARTS 8am: No.1 Oval.

10 KM START TIME 8:30am: No.1 Oval.

5 KM START TIME 8:45am: No.1 Oval.

WALK 4 KM 9am: No.1 Oval.

DASH 4 CASH 10:30am at No.1 Oval; register on the day.

New England focus. 41

42 New England focus.

Kirinari Kirinari provide services to people with disability across Northern New South Wales in rural and regional areas.

Pathfinders Foster Care Program NEEDS YOU! Pathfinders are looking for people interested in providing care to children and young people with challenging behaviours and/or high support needs.

• Ongoing training

There are many children and young people in need of carers who are experienced in looking after children and young people with complex trauma backgrounds, behavioural needs, physical or intellectual disabilities.

Pathfinders need carers for children and young people with challenging behaviour and/or high support needs in Armidale, Uralla, Guyra, Walcha, Inverell, Tamworth and surrounding areas.

Pathfinders offer full training and ongoing support, where you will have:

For more information on how to become a carer, please call 1800 314 199 email fostering@pathfinders.ngo or visit www.pathfinders.ngo

• Access to 24/7 on-call support

• Additional services such as counselling, before and after school care assistance or day care assistance.

Regional Manager for Northern NSW, Lorraine Legge said, “What sets Kirinari apart from other providers is our approach to the choices people have. Kirinari provides Supported Independent Living (SIL), Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) and Short Term Accommodation (STA) options.

"The journey of finding your home starts with looking at a larger picture of developing skills training, capacity building and ascertaining the best supports you may need. Some people may need 24/7 support. Others may only need a few hours of support per day. Your accommodation and lifestyle needs to be as unique and individual as you are.

"Families are very surprised when they find out that their loved one does not have to live in a group home, or live with people they don’t want to. Some families prefer more traditional styles of accommodation, and we are able to cater to that. Other families say, 'My God! Isn’t

it fabulous?' Like everyone else, our customers need to have dreams and something to work towards and live for. We can help you work towards your dreams and goals too.“ Please call Regional Manager Lorraine Legge with any questions you may have or to make a time to come and see us. Call (02) 6765 6231 or email lorraine.legge@kirinari.com.au You can visit us at www.kirinari.com.au Kirinari are on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

New England focus. 43

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

August 2019

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

LIBRA.

JANUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 19

MAY 22 - JUNE 22

SEPTEMBER 24 - OCTOBER 23

You are so clever at getting what you want. Victory involving an important speech is at hand, and this will alleviate the feeling of waiting and wanting change to come forward. You are not on your own; there is a wonderful support system available to you.

Ruby helps us attain our highest ambitions.

PISCES. FEBRUARY 20 - MARCH 20

Play a little more with your creative energy, as you are very gifted and when you’re creatively living life, you feel complete. New rewards are coming to you through career opportunities. Expect an easier financial flow.

Citrine attracts an abundance of good.

Be patient, especially with yourself. If delays tempt you to change, stop, visualise yourself in the future walking the walk, and you will reconnect to your passion for it. Allow your mind to explore something light, instead of stress.

Amethyst calms and centres our energy.

Your new sense of personal power has recently shifted, and you are vulnerable to being domineered if you don’t stand your ground. You are such a wonderful, gentle example of love personified; this is your strength. Good luck will come through work soon.

Carnelian can evoke creative energy quicker than many other crystals.

CANCER.

SCORPIO.

JUNE 23 - JULY 23

OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 22

You have outgrown some of your old beliefs. Even though it’s not comfortable, try debating with your beliefs. Because this is a very strong purging cycle you are in, it’s a great time to release anything stopping you reaching your fullest potential.

Selenite is great for an abundance of crystal-clear energy.

Congratulations: your recent hard efforts at work have paid off. A newfound respect has been activated from your personal changes.

You have the ability to puppeteer people at the moment, so use this skill with the highest intention for all concerned and enjoy the success you deserve.

Apophyllite tip placed on the third eye helps to visualise.

ARIES.

LEO.

SAGITTARIUS.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 20

JULY 24 - AUGUST 23

NOVEMBER 23 - DECEMBER 21

Just listen to your wise words, and you will see your path clearly again.

Avoid living other people’s stress, or you won’t be able to guide them and you are a natural leader. Keep your sensitivity, but don’t let it hurt you.

Moldavite brings forward change and higher personal qualities.

Set some fresh goals to maximise on the creative and artistic influences affecting your sign. Leadership qualities can be tapped into this month and offer self-enlightenment. Travel is likely to be high on the agenda soon.

Pyrite will bring back courage.

Situations may be forced on to you to show you your strength in your independence. You’re about to become very busy, with a feeling of immense satisfaction for what you are doing. This is a time of healing past hurts also, so don’t be hassled remembering the things you want to say goodbye to.

Jade brings a feeling of peace and wellbeing.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

CAPRICORN.

APRIL 21 - MAY 21

AUGUST 24 - SEPTEMBER 23

DECEMBER 22 - JANUARY 20

Love is in the air! So, be emotionally aware of what’s yours and what’s your partner’s. If you mirror yourselves in one another, you will see what’s yours. If your partner does something you disapprove of, ask yourself WHY you disapprove.

Rose Quartz will aid in raising self-worth.

44 New England focus.

Change is coming to any circumstance where entrapment is concerned.

Being unable or afraid to express yourself will soon be something of the past. Justice will be served, and a new sense of freedom will be enjoyed.

Set some new goals and enjoy.

Clear quartz amplifies strength.

Plans to travel may be interrupted, or may not flow smoothly. You have been gifted with an acute sense of intuition, so use it to live by and all fear will dissipate, leaving you only in the right place at the right time.

Record Keepers are great to travel with.

New England focus. 45

46 New England focus.

Local Insurance for Local People.

Matthew McCulloch

Nathan Henderson E L D E R S

Describe your business in one sentence.

Local Insurance for Local People.

What is your business vision in 2019? Our business focus for the coming year is to spend as much time as possible with our clients and potential clients. We are all fully aware of the difficulties that the drought is causing our rural communities, whether our customers be farmers or business owners in town. During these tough economic times, it’s more important than ever to sit down and discuss the best strategies that are economically viable for our customers to manage their insurance requirements.

What are your tips for balancing work/life/ family? Prioritising is the key, and obviously family always comes first. However, with anything in life, it’s better if you enjoy it. At work, whilst we are serious about what we do, we also enjoy a joke and the lighter side of things with ourselves and often our customers.

I N S U R A N C E

What are you most proud of in your business? I am very proud of the team we have in our three offices - Tamworth, Armidale and Gunnedah. Between us we have many years’ experience and are a close knit group, almost like a family.

I’m also proud that we are a locally owned business, managed and operated by local staff.

Our approach is “old fashioned” in that we still prefer to do business face to face with our customers; whether it be at the kitchen table, coffee shop or a client’s office, there is no substitute for taking the time to sit and talk and get to know the people who support our business - our customers.

We like to think that by building these relationships, when things do go wrong and claims occur, our customers have the confidence that we will do our best to work with them to get the best result possible.

R O B E R T S

A N D

“Change is the only constant”. The youngest Partner of the Roberts & Morrow Tamworth office, Matt McCulloch, is focused on the future of business and farming enterprise in regional Australia. As technological change and automation become increasingly prevalent in everyday business, the resulting disruption means that businesses are faced with new challenges and opportunities in navigating change.

“Those of us in regional Australia should avoid complacency in this area, as some of the most significant automation and efficiencies have been created in the agricultural and regional enterprise environments.”

With clients spread across the North West region and working from the Narrabri office fairly regularly, Matt has a keen interest in helping farmers with accounting and business management.

M O R R O W

“Uncertainty as to the sustainability of farming practices is at an all-time high - especially in regards to the availability of water and the perils of drought and other mammoth weather events.

Developments in technology and improvement in the connectivity of farms should provide some solutions to problems faced regularly, such as loss of crops, issues relating to animal husbandry and hopefully promote a sustainable future for agriculture with water security being pivotal.”

Roberts & Morrow have held seminars focused on technology and developments with the future of agriculture. The tools of farming have evolved significantly and continue to do so. This is a space Matt is particularly passionate about, and he intends to continue these discussions in our region.

To get in touch with Matt, contact the Tamworth office (02) 6768 1111.

With over 60 years of experience in business, Roberts & Morrow offers stability, personalised service and quality results.

rm.net.au l 02 6774 8400 enquiries@rm.net.au Armidale, Tamworth, Glen Innes, Narrabri

New England focus. 47

Business Minds

with Ingrid Rothe of VIVID Thinking

AndrewRoss B L U E Y

M E R I N O

This month Business Minds talks to Andrew Ross of Bluey Merino. Bluey Merino manufactures a range of Australian made active and outdoor apparel, sourcing their wool directly from selected growers in New England and Tasmania. Bluey Merino is in the process of purchasing an industrial block at the Armidale Airport Precinct to establish an advanced manufacturing facility.

T

ell us a little bit about yourself.

Bluey Merino is a partnership with my wife Marita, who is also a Director of the company. Together, we have three children and live in the Southern Highlands of NSW. We launched Bluey Merino seven years ago as a part-time enterprise, essentially testing the waters to see if we could succeed in the Australian market. We source certified ethical merino wool direct from the farm and manufacture close to the source of production. Our product has significant export potential.

What led you to start Bluey Merino?

My father and stepmother live in Guyra, supporting and inspiring me down this path. I’ve worked in banking, technology and supply chain logistics, working with some of Australia’s largest companies. I reinvented myself every four or five years, giving me a breadth of experience based on technology and innovation. Wool production has been a source of income for the family since 1865.

When I looked at the wool supply chain, there were lots of questions, particularly around provenance and why we couldn’t add value here in Australia.

It’s a great name ...

The jolly swagman’s swag included a blue woollen blanket; it’s iconic and closely linked to Australia’s heritage.

That fits with our ethos at Bluey Merino; our clothes are everyday wear, more about function than fashion.

Bluey Merino is known for its technology innovation; please explain.

We are investing in the future of design and use of hightech production equipment for our garments. Our future is in smart textile development, where the garment becomes the sensor, able to sense specific body parameters and hopefully interact with the environment - useful, for example, in aged care, sports or defence forces.

We’re at the front of a global trend, incorporating merino wool in smart textiles - which is currently unheard

48 New England focus.

of. And, we’re solving a number of problems like, how do What’s next? you create a fabric that is conductive in nature, and how We will build in stages. Firstly, we will design and do you connect that fabric to technology? build the facility to operate our e-commerce business We’ve partnered with the University of Wollongong, from, allowing us to import advanced manufacturing Intelligent Polymer Research Institute and are trialling our equipment and establish production lines over time. Then first garment which integrates with waterproof Near Field we will establish a co-working facility, where like-minded Communications (NFC tags), connecting the consumer to businesses focused on sustainability will work alongside us. our product by waving their phone over the garment.

We are focused on sustainable, ethical sourcing, making NFC technology allows us locally, and hoping to empower and to build in anti-counterfeiting encourage lots of others on this measures; thereby, in the first journey. We have already started to instance, building trust. The attract potential tenants.

We’re at the front second one builds out traceability We started traceability when no of a global trend, and provenance from the source one was doing it, and we’re now incorporating merino to the garment. We pioneered adding layers of technology to ensure this in Australia, and it’s next we remain ahead of the game. Our wool in smart textiles generation for us. The third one is Armidale facility will eventually have a - which is currently where the garment itself becomes capacity to produce up to a 100,000 unheard of. a transmitter. garments per year, as long as we Why is traceability important? have a market who is prepared to Consumers around the world contract us - that is most likely not want to know where their fibre in Australia. But, our innovation and and food comes from and how it’s being produced. We’ve manufacturing home will be here, where it should be. done this for five years, producing single source garments What was your biggest challenge? traceable back to the farm of origin. For example, many There was no one to guide us or teach us in this space of our garments are created solely from Ed and Karen in Australia. We evolved through trial and error and Bloomfield’s merino wool enterprise in Walcha, NSW. learning from other’s mistakes.

Single source is rarely heard of.

Any advice for a business just starting out?

Why Armidale?

They need to be clear on where they want to go and Our merino wool is grown in either New England or be prepared to back themselves when others won’t. Then Tasmania. I grew up in Tamworth and the business was they need to have resilience to keep at it, because it will founded from the sheep yards of our family farm at take longer than they expect.

Guyra. I’ve subsequently built long-term relationships with What inspires you? growers within the region. Our wool is sourced directly Innovative Australians who are prepared to chase their from the grower at shearing, so we’ve built credibility with dreams and goals, but especially those who live in regional growers in New England. Along with the Armidale Airport Australia, where there seems to be so much more of a Precinct development and the planned investment in the challenge. region, Armidale just made sense to us.

Thanks Andrew.

Tony Bennett A R M I D A L E

A C U P U N C T U R E

Grahame Sharpe S M I T H

S H A R P E

&

A B B O T T

I am often asked whether acupuncture is suitable for treating various conditions, and the simple answer is mostly the same.

Describe your business in one sentence. We are a

If we are out of balance, then pain and ill-health will follow.

Generally, the longer we have had a problem, the longer it will take to recover.

specialising in primary production.

The aim of acupuncture is to help restore the normal flow of “Qi” or energy through the body, thereby assisting in the healing of disease and recovery from injury.

by drought by delivering cost effective and meaningful

It is important to establish why the client became ill in the first place or what underlying weakness contributed to their injury.

A healthy person leads a balanced life: emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually. If we eat appropriately, have regular exercise and appreciate what we have in life, we are well on the way to living a happier and healthier life.

The reality is we live in a demanding world and are sometimes not able to lead the idyllic lifestyle.

I’m here to help using the very gentle art of Japanese Meridian Therapy Acupuncture, and most people tend to find the treatment to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

Many people also find that acupuncture can work particularly well in conjunction with other treatments.

Chartered Accountancy firm, and I have been a Chartered Accountant in the New England for approximately 35 years, What is your business vision in 2019? Our firm’s vision is to assist as many people possible currently being affected business services.

What are your interests and hobbies outside of work?

I have many agricultural interests, including being principal of a Poll Dorset stud.

I am currently the treasurer of the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW and a director of the Royal Agricultural Society, the RAS Foundation and the Sydney Olympic Park Authority.

What are you most proud of in your business? I am most proud of the team at Smith Sharpe and Abbott, as they are all highly qualified, understanding and empathetic accountants who really worry about our clients - especially under these such trying times.

New England focus. 49

focus_contributor

ANTHONY FOX - PRESIDENT, ARMIDALE BUSINESS CHAMBER

Minding your

BUSINESS AWARDS. July and August mark awards season, with various businesses and individuals nominating for the 18 different Award Categories.

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he Awards provide an opportunity for businesses to celebrate their achievements with their staff. It is also to showcase businesses and individuals on achievements in the region and beyond. It has been a tough year, with businesses facing the effects of the drought and sluggish economic growth. Hopefully

50 New England focus.

we can make a night of it and celebrate our achievements.

Judging will take place under the control of the Regional Office of the NSW Business Chamber, and the results will be out soon. Good luck to everyone. The Awards Night is 16th August 2019. Tickets can be purchased through the Chamber website. Last year was a great success. I look forward to seeing you there.

WiNG The breakfasts organised by our Women’s Networking Group continue to be a great success. At the last breakfast, a panel of award winners from previous Awards Nights: Tracy Wright (Raw Fibre); Bronwyn Pearson (Pinnacle People Solutions); and Irene Lennon (Magic Electricity Box) shared their experiences in business and the benefits of the Business Awards. The next breakfast will take place on 20th August 2019. Lorraine Gordon (National Regenerative Agriculture Alliance) will be speaking. The venue is the Moore Park Inn, with a 7am start.

Governor of the Reserve Bank As mentioned last month, the Chamber is hosting a dinner for the Governor of the Reserve Bank, Dr Phillip Lowe. As you will have read or heard, Dr Lowe over the last few months has made a number of comments concerning the Australian economy, the job market, infrastructure and of course, interest rates. We have had two interest rate reductions in as many months.

This dinner provides the Armidale and surrounding regions the opportunity to hear directly from the Governor on these topics, which have a significant effect upon the economic wellbeing of us all.

The dinner is at 7pm on 24th September 2019 at the Bowling Club. Tickets can be obtained through the Chamber website.

Regional Airport I attended a “soft” launch of the sale of the Armidale Regional Airport Business Park. The agent appointed by Council to sell the various

blocks in the Business Park is Neil Mortimer of First National Armidale.

Council Committees In 2018, Council established two committees on which the Chamber is represented, the Business Advisory Committee and the Regional Growth Advisory Committee. The latter committee as part of its function has been watching developments with the airport.

Generally, there is at present a proposal before Armidale Regional Council to rationalise these Committees amongst others. Both Advisory Committees under the existing proposal are to be merged with the merged committee consisting of five members, three councillors and two others.

So, these two important committees will now only have two members of the community to represent community/business views.

I disagree with the methodology used to review the committees (the lack of consultation with committee members) as well as the conclusions.

Certainly, a review of committees is a useful exercise; however, in this case it was carried out “on the quiet” with the results only being made available at the last opportunity for discussion, by the Chairman of the Regional Advisory Committee.

It is hoped that we can successfully lobby for appropriate consultation with businesses and the community in the future.

Celebrating New Business We’d love to feature new businesses in our column. Drop the chamber a line, and we will feature them in the next article.

thinking reputation

WITH CHRISTOPHER SEROW & SAM DOYLE

thinking

reputation

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person or small company (“the aggrieved”) may be defamed when someone (“the publisher”) publicly makes or publishes untrue statements that malign the reputation of the aggrieved. An apology and retraction by the publisher of an untrue statement is usually the first step to resolving a dispute particularly where the publisher has made the statement in error. When a publisher does not properly retract an untrue or malicious statement the law of defamation may be invoked to protect the aggrieved party’s reputation.

Impact of Defamation Stating or publishing comments without proper enquiry combined with reckless allegations about an individual may be considered as malicious and defamatory ultimately causing a negative impact on a person’s reputation and self esteem disrupting and maligning their achievements in business, social, sporting, political and cultural associations that may have been built up over several years. The emotional impact on the aggrieved person can be overwhelming causing anxiety, hurt feelings, financial loss and depression. Individuals and companies may suffer both economic and non-economic loss. If the publisher is reluctant or refuses to withdraw untrue statements or published material, an aggrieved person may proceed to take action against the publisher.

Resolving Matters Without Going to Court In NSW the Defamation Act 2005 (‘the Act”) provides the steps involved in taking action against a publisher of defamatory material or statements. The objects of the Act however, provide that law of defamation is not intended to place unreasonable limits on freedom of expression and, in particular, on the publication and discussion of matters of public interest and importance.

Such action may be at common law or may follow statutory provisions. Defamatory material does not have to be in writing and includes slander. The Act also provides for the circumstances in which a defence may be available to the publisher such as where the statement is substantially true or where a publisher may have parliamentary

or other privilege. Under provisions of the Act, not only are individuals entitled to take action in defamation but also not-for-profit organisations and companies that employ less than 10 full time equivalent staff.

The first step to resolve defamation matters in accordance with the Act is for an aggrieved person to provide a concerns notice to the publisher. The concerns notice must be in writing and inform the publisher of the false and defamatory allegations that they have attributed to the aggrieved person. This is referred to as the imputations.

The publisher then has 28 days in which it may make an offer to make amends either in relation to the matter generally or limited to part of the defamatory imputations. An offer to make amends must be in writing and include an offer to publish in writing a correction or retraction or to tell people that the published or stated material was incorrect and defamatory. The offer to make amends must include, among other things, an offer to pay the expenses reasonably incurred by the aggrieved before the offer was made (such as legal costs).

Going to Court If an offer is not provided or does not satisfy statutory requirements, the aggrieved may take formal action to sue the publisher through either the District or Supreme Court of NSW or, in some cases, through the Federal Court system. Defamation matters cannot be filed in the Local Court. An action must be filed by way of a Statement of Claim within 12 months of the defamatory material being published. Apart from any economic loss, the aggrieved may claim compensation up to $250,000.00. The level of compensation however, if any, is ultimately determined by the Court. In addition to compensation the losing party will be usually be liable to pay the winning parties legal costs.

Court proceedings for defamation are extremely expensive. Before taking such proceedings individuals should always obtain independent legal advice. Talk to us. You’ll be inspired.

Christopher K.C. Serow Principal, Solicitor Director, Notary Public, Migration Agent MARN 0854319 New England focus. 51

focusinterview.

E R I N P O R T E R

In just eight short years, O’Connor Catholic College student Erin Porter has achieved some remarkable on-field results in hockey. PLAYING FIRST GRADE FOR THE BREAKAWAYS HOCKEY CLUB, Erin is also a talented umpire; she has her sights firmly set on making Hockey NSW’s Athlete Acceleration Program … and umpiring at Nationals.

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i Erin. Tell us a little about yourself and your family’s background in the New England area ...

I’m 16 years old and have lived in Armidale all of my life. My family runs a sheep and cattle property, 45 km west of Armidale on the Boorolong Road, and I’m a fourth generation farmer.

I currently attend O’Connor Catholic College, in Year 10. I’m also doing a school-based traineeship and working to obtain my Certificate 2 in Agriculture, Horticulture and Conservations and Land Management.

What sparked your interest in hockey ... and how old were you when you first started playing?

I was only eight years old, and my mum thought it would be a great sport to get into and meet some new friends.

My first club was Ex-Services Hockey Club. Since then, I now play first grade for Breakaways Hockey Club.

When/how did your skill playing hockey lead into umpiring the game?

I took up umpiring for Hockey NE in U9s and U11s. My first competition was in Tamworth for the U11 Kim Small Shield. From there, I went up the grades for HNE, then I was named as the umpire at Hockey NSW U13 Boys’ State Championships for North West Sydney. In 2018 I attended the Hockey NSW U18 Girls, which is a named panel.

You’ve notched up some significant achievements in hockey (both playing and umpiring) over the last year or so. What have been some of the major

52 New England focus.

matches/comps you’ve been involved with? university - studying something to do with agriculture.

At the Hockey NSW U18 Boys in Lismore, I was When you’re not on the hockey field, what else awarded the Div 3 Grand Final and also was awarded the keeps you busy?

Development Umpire of the Tournament.

When I’m not playing hockey, I play Rugby Union for At the Hockey NSW Women’s Opens in Bathurst, I was O’Connor Catholic College on Friday nights in the girls’ awarded the Div 3 Grand Final Opens - I was the youngcompetition, touch football in summer and I also umpire est umpire to receive a final. touch.

What are some of the sportIf other locals are interested ing achievements you’re most in hockey as a sport, what’s proud of? the best way for them to get AT THE HOCKEY NSW Making the Northern Inland involved?

WOMEN’S OPENS IN Academy of Sport (NIAS) in 2018 Hockey New England have a BATHURST, I WAS and 2019, being selected to website: www.revolutionise.com.au/ AWARDED THE DIV 3 umpire at U18 Boys and Open hockeyne/ - there you will be able GRAND FINAL OPENS Women’s this year, and Coaching to find the contacts for all the clubs I WAS THE YOUNGEST for Hockey NSW at the Under that are in our association (there UMPIRE TO RECEIVE A 12 Development Clinics for Greg are 13).

FINAL. Doolan; he is the Northern Inland Hockey NE have a Facebook site Regional Coaching Coordinator.

- Hockey New England, that has What is it about hockey as all the updates from rep hockey to a sport that you particularly local weekend results. Hockey New love?

England now have 1,000 members.

The friends you make over the years. You don’t have to For more information, you can contact my mum, Fiona play with them each weekend but when you go to chamPorter: admin@hockeynewengland.org.au as she is with pionships and they are playing, it is nice to see them. the admin office for Hockey New England.

Looking to the future - what would you most like Thanks Erin. to achieve (sport and personally) over the next few Interview: Jo Robinson. years?

Photo top left: Erin winning the Development With playing, making Hockey NSW’s Athlete AcceleraUmpire of the Tournament at Hockey NSW U18 Boys tion Program (AAP) and umpiring at Nationals.

Personally, doing well in my HSC and going to in Lismore 2019. Photo credit: Click In Focus.

Andrew & Dayna Starr expand business in Armidale

Having owned and operated Ray White Rural Guyra/Armidale for the past 13 years, Andrew and Dayna Starr are excited to be expanding their business by branching into the residential space with the new Ray White Armidale.

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ith over 20 years' experience in the real estate industry, Mr Starr believes that this is a great opportunity to not only expand his reach across northern New South Wales, but also provide greater exposure to his clients and local community. Mr Starr’s business will now become a full service real estate office covering everything from large scale farms and rural lifestyle properties to residential sales and property management.

Aligning with the expansion into residential sales, the team at Ray White are excited to welcome local agent Cayne Moar. Cayne will be working alongside Lachlan Cullen, who

has worked with the Ray White Rural brand in Armidale for the past three years.

“Having known Cayne for many years, we are thrilled to have such a well known and successful agent join our business,” Mr Starr said.

“Cayne has built a very successful local career and is well loved among the Armidale community. He is known for his enthusiasm, integrity and competency, and I’m so grateful to have him join our family.”

Having sold some magnificent properties around the local community, Mr Moar is keen to hit the ground running, with a number of exciting new listings going live this week.

“I’m very excited to be joining the team at Ray White Armidale. I have great connections with my local community, and I’m thrilled to be able

to offer my clients the as they take their business to We will now have fully benefits of working with the next level,” Mr Nell said. operational sales and Australasia’s biggest real For Mr Starr, his goal is property management estate brand,” Mr Moar clear: to be the best source departments, so our said. of real estate in the region. business can support Ray White Rural “The main priority for us all facets of property. So managing director is our clients. My team and whether you’re buying, Stephen Nell I aim to get the best results selling, investing or renting, every time,” Mr Starr said. congratulated Andrew Ray White Armidale has a and Dayna on their “We will now have specialist in the field. expansion and welcomed fully operational sales and Mr Moar to the business. property management “Andrew and Dayna departments, so our business have run an exceptional can support all facets of rural business for many years, and we are thrilled property. So whether you’re buying, selling, to see them take on this next opportunity. I look investing or renting, Ray White Armidale has a forward to supporting the new Ray White team specialist in the field.”

New England focus. 53

focusinterview.

Professional M E R GE R

There is some great news for the business community of the New England: RAY WHITE AND THE PROFESSIONALS HAVE MERGED THEIR TWO SUCCESSFUL REAL ESTATE BUSINESSES UNDER ONE BANNER. FOCUS talks with Ben Saxby and Stephen Ramage about this new partnership ...

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ell the community why you within the team? decided to merge the two (S) We have two very different types of businesses into one. skill bases and across the staff, we have (S) It was a strategic move enthusiasm, knowledge and varying degrees to bring two powerhouses of ages, so we are well suited to discuss all together - the strength of Ben types of scenarios across the real estate scope. and his sales team, together (B) Also, now we have with the strength of my more resources within property management our team; not only that, knowledge and team. but now we are one (B) We are reinforcing business, we’ve cut WE ARE PLAYING TO a strength that we’ve out a lot of extra costs OUR STRENGTHS NOW already got - two successful associated with running WITH THESE TWO businesses. This opportunity two separate businesses.

BUSINESSES COMBINED, to come together creates For example, instead of AND WE ARE LOOKING longevity for the staff who having two subscriptions TO BE THE LEADER IN are associated with us and for everything, we have REAL ESTATE IN THE our clients. There is a real one.

NEW ENGLAND REGION. trend across Australia in real Will you be keeping estate, where businesses both locations? are merging together. We (S) No, we have are playing to our strengths moved Ray White office now with these two businesses combined, and into the current Professionals building. You we are looking to be the leader in real estate can find us all at 117 Beardy Street. in the New England region.

How is the team handling the restructure?

How will the merger create efficiency (B) They are meshing together really well!

54 New England focus.

(S) Yes, for the third week it seems like they have all been working together for 30 years.

So tell us about all the services the Professionals now offer.

(S) Wow, there are a lot of services we now offer. We have storage, property management in commercial and residential, strata management, short term stays, a huge sales team dealing in residential, commercial and lifestyle. Now we are a real estate with a broad scope of practice and the knowledge and experience to back it up.

Moving into the future, what is your main focus?

(S) To continue to grow our property management offerings and department and to continue to offer an expert sales team.

(B)That’s right. Currently we hold about a 30% market share across Armidale, which has been the result of some pretty hard work over the last six months. We are wanting to move that up to 50% in the next six months. That’s no mean feat, but we believe with the team we have, this is possible.

Thanks Ben and Stephen.

New England focus. 55

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New England focus. 51