Port Macquarie Focus i114 by Focus

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

May 2015 // issue 114

T I N

H T A

N U

Feature Story Anna Salleh

editor's note.

Blue love so much fun it can’t possibly be good for you…

SUNDAY 17 MAY, 2PM

editor.

FROM THE

jay beaumont.

Welcome to the May issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS.

elcome to our May issue, which highlights an iconic local event, Slice of Haven, and celebrates Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10. This issue is jam packed with gift ideas for all the wonderful mothers and grandmothers out there, so if you are looking for something special for your mum or grandma, check out the feature pages. On a personal note, I would like to wish my lovely wife, Louise, a very happy first Mother’s Day - your love and attention to our family is very much appreciated. I’m a lucky man. SLICE OF HAVEN If you love food even half as much as I do, then Slice of Haven is not to be missed. The annual food and wine festival will be held on Sunday, May 24 on the Camden Haven River foreshore. The theme this year is “Food for Thought: Celebrating Cultural Diversity” and celebrates the diversity of the Camden Haven. As well as gourmet offerings from some of the region’s most renowned cooks, chefs and suppliers, there will also be special entertainment performances. You can find out more about this great local event on page 32.

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

ADDRESS: 4/74 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 PHONE: 02 6584 7433 FAX: 02 6584 6733 WEB: www.focusmag.com.au TV: www.focustv.com.au Comments and opinions of our contributors do not necessarily reflect the opinion or view of the Publishers or Editor. All reasonable efforts have been made to trace copyright holders. Information appearing in Focus is believed to be correct at the time of going to press however no liability will be held for inaccurate information approved or supplied by advertisers or contributors. While all care is taken it is recommended that readers confirm dates, times, prices and any other material including advice with individual businesses and industry professionals. Greater Port Macquarie Focus is produced and published by Creative House Publications PTY LTD ABN: 621 287 86005 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2009-2014 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

EAT APP NOW ON IPHONE It’s finally here. Our updated eat. iPhone application is now live. Readers can download the app for their phone by visiting the app store and searching for “eat Port Macquarie” in Food and Drink. This new application features a selection of restaurants and cafés from our eat. dining guide, making it easy for you to find a great place to eat while you’re on the go. Explore a great selection of restaurants and cafés located in the Manning-Great Lakes, Greater Port Macquarie, New England and Coffs Coast area. Each restaurant and café featured has mouthwatering professional images, so you can eat with your eyes in fantastic HD iPhone 6 ready quality. FINAL SAY ‘God could not be everywhere, and therefore he made mothers.’ - Rudyard Kipling

Jay Beaumont - Editor Jay Beaumont – Editor jay@focusmag.com.au

EDITOR: Jay Beaumont jay@focusmag.com.au

of art, Blue Love is inspired by famous works l with theatre, music and film; all of which dea parody the concept of love. Glenn and Rhonda rnations. the lip-service given to love and its inca a multiThis quirky, character-based work is ssible, media, physical theatre comedy: acce g. challenging and enormously entertainin

Buy 3 tickets & get one FREE!*

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2007 Business of the Year 2009 Winner Professional Services 2010 Winner Professional Services 2010 Winner Business to Business Choice Award 2011 Winner Creative, IT & Communications 2012 Winner Creative, IT & Communications 2012 Finalist Excellence in Business 2013 HALL OF FAME

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ADVERTISING CONSULTANT: Annette Wannell

“It’s a tight package of snappy acting, super-smooth relevant dancing, superb singing and a fat dose of funny… this reviewer will settle for a singleword label after all: “brilliant”. Simon Ferguson, Daily Telegraph

annette@focusmag.com.au

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* Call the Box Office for this special deal

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FOCUS IS PROUD TO SUPPORT THESE GREAT COMMUNITY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS.

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focusinterview.

ANNA SALLEH

Anna Salleh – Gorgeous Songs from Brazil and Beyond

anna salleh

i Anna. What’s your background - where did you grow up? Even in Brazil people think I'm a “Brasileira”(Brazilian), and I guess that's not surprising since I'm mixed race and just about everyone in Brazil is too. I also sing Brazilian songs in Portuguese as well as English and am told my accent can be quite “Carioca” (from Rio). My father is actually Malaysian and my mum is Australian. I was born in Tasmania and spent a few years in Malaysia as a child. Sydney has been my hometown since I started high school. How and when did you first become interested in music and singing? My mother and her mother were singers, and all through my childhood my parents played music in the house - classical, folk, world, jazz and everything in between. I remember being particularly mesmerised by my dad's Ella Fitzgerald records. I had violin lessons when I was four, but the first instrument to really stick was a guitar I got when I was 12. What’s your musical history ... I believe you performed across various genres when you were younger, including with acappella groups? I played and sang folk and pop standards on guitar all through high school. In my 20s I busked, and performed at folk clubs and festivals, and later joined a five-part acappella group run by Gary Smith, who later became my partner. The group sang a lot of jazz and gospel and had loads of fun touring places like the Edinburgh Festival. What attracted you to Brazilian music? When I was young, my father ran a film club, which screened the film Black Orpheus - the story of Orpheus and Eurydice set in Rio de Janeiro at Carnival time. I was captivated by

greater port macquarie focus.

Gorgeous Songs from Brazil and Beyond Passionate, vibrant, colourful, producing music that will stir your soul … don’t miss Anna’s stunning performance at the Glasshouse this month …

PASSIONATE, VIBRANT, COLOURFUL, PRODUCING MUSIC THAT WILL STIR YOUR SOUL ... DON’T MISS ANNA’S STUNNING PERFORMANCE AT THE GLASSHOUSE THIS MONTH ...

In my 20s the film's stunning views I had before. It gave busked , and of the city from the me tips on how to lk performed at fo hillside favelas, and by best transfer some of d an s, al clubs and festiv the irresistible rhythms those thigh-wiggling rt pa elater joined a fiv n by and haunting melodies rhythms to guitar. ru p ou acappella gr r of its soundtrack. It And it gave me the te la ho w , ith Gary Sm really sowed the seeds ner.” confidence to keep on became my part for what I do today. In the channeling this beautilast decade I taught myself ful music. to play jazz chords on guitar, Describe the show you’ll got some tips on pronouncing Brabe presenting: Gorgeous zilian Portuguese, and started regularly Songs from Brazil and Beyond. performing bossa nova - see for example, What led to the development of this https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lfibshow, and what are some of the songs wW-bQos. we’ll be able to watch you perform? You’ve spent a fair bit of time in Rio de When I came back from Brazil, I was Janeiro. What were these experiences like thoroughly inspired. With Gary's help I put - how did they help you grow both as a together a show that has been evolving ever person and as a performer? since. It not only includes honey-smooth bossa By 2010, I was so obsessed with Brazilian nova hits like The Girl from Ipanema, but also music, I packed up my guitar and flew to Rio. less well known exciting jazz sambas and I took lessons in percussion and guitar, played playful choro songs. And it includes non-Brawith the locals, got tips from bossa nova zilian tunes, ranging from ballads and cheeky legends like Roberto Menescal, and generally swing tunes, to original arrangements of old did my best to get some Brazilian “ginga” favourites. Every tune creates a different mood (groove). Carioca friend Luiz Carlos de Oliveira and tells a story. People can expect a really e Silva really encouraged me to look beyond fun night of variety - an intoxicating brew of bossa nova to other styles - like samba and irresistible beats, exceptional beauty, passion, choro. Samba is the traditional music of Carirreverence, and joy. nival, while choro dates back to the 19th CenYou’ll have some very talented musicians tury and evolved from such things as the polka on stage with you throughout the show. from Europe combined with African rhythms. Please introduce us to these guys and tell There is a thriving club scene in Rio where you us what instruments they play. can spend hours enjoying the revival of these Joining me on the night will be the extremetraditions. ly talented Stuart Vandegraaff (sax, clarinet, Going to Brazil is the best thing I've ever flute), Dan Holland (piano), Stan Valacos done in my life. Perhaps that's why some (double bass and Brazilian 7-string guitar), and people say I have a “Coração Brasileiro”(BraTim Bradley (drums and percussion). They are zilian Heart)? When I came back, I made an all great mates and connected in some way ABC radio documentary about my experiencto Brazil through family or music or both. I es in Brazil. My time there gave me a much absolutely adore their talent and versatility deeper appreciation of Brazilian music than at crossing styles as diverse as hard-swinging

“

jazz and sambas that make your heart race, to gentle bossa novas and delightful choro tunes. I am very lucky to have them on board. You also have a live CD, called A Felicidade. What are some of your favourite tracks from the album, and why do you like them? The first incarnation of Gorgeous Songs from Brazil and Beyond formed the basis of my live album A Felicidade that came out in 2012. One of my favourite songs is Doce de Coco (Coconut sweet), which Luiz in Rio introduced to me, and my debut performance of it was in a Copacabana jazz club. Not only has it got the sweetest melody, but it carries very strong memories for me of my time in Brazil. I also like O Samba da Minha Terra (The Samba of my Land), which has the lyrics: “I was born in the samba, I grew up the samba and if you don't like the samba there's something wrong with your head or something wrong with your feet!” But I also like what we do with songs like Caravan - which is a jazz standard from my childhood. What are your plans for the rest of 2015? After our mini Mid North Coast tour, I want to capture the energy that's with the band right now in a second album. Apart from that, we will continue our monthly residency at Sydney's Foundry616 jazz club, and keep taking the show on the road, allowing it to evolve as we find more and more gorgeous musical gems to pick up and shine. Thanks Anna. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug! See Anna at the Glasshouse on 22 May at 8pm. Tickets: $50. Call the Box Office on 6581 8888 or visit glasshouse.org.au

inside this

Issue 114- May 2015

Life’s an Adventure.

16.

Cas and Jonesy, two young Aussie adventurers who have taken on the wildest of wild expeditions and succeeded in doing so, are venturing to the Luminosity Youth Summit in Port Macquarie. Jonesy shares part of their journey with FOCUS…

34.

Tin Hta Nu. After moving to the Camden Haven region in 2003, Tin Hta Nu has made her mark in our region with her beautiful Burmese cuisine, generosity, talent and eagerness to help the community … This is her story.

42.

Justin Gilligan. With an honours degree in Marine Science, freelance photographer Justin Gilligan specialises in the subject of underwater photography, Combining his scientific knowledge and artistic panache to create images that celebrate life and reflect its most natural state.

6. Battle of the Bands 12. African Children’s Choir 36. Farm Gate Tour 40. HERO 52. Jim Matsinos

usual suspects.

the

13. what’s on for May 22. eat featuring local restaurants 25. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 38. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 63. starguide with Terri 69. travel with Susie Boswell 76. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 83. tourism with Janette Hyde 93. landcare with Estelle Gough

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

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BATTLE of the

R I L E Y GAU L , O L I V I A B E N T L E Y A N D I S A AC B RU G G E M A N N A R E A L L Y E A R 1 2 S T U D E N T S F RO M VA R I O U S S C H O O L S AC RO S S T H E H A S T I N G S A R E A . T H E H A R DWO R K I N G T R I O F O R M PA RT O F A G RO U P O F S T U D E N T S W H O A R E B U S I LY O RGA N I S I N G A N I N T E RS C H O O L BAT T L E O F T H E BA N D S E V E N T, W H I C H W I L L B E H O S T E D BY S T C O LU M BA A N G L I C A N S C H O O L O N M AY 7 …

i Riley, Olivia and Isaac. Introduce yourself to our readers, please: where do you go to school, and how did you become involved with the event? I'm Riley, and I am in Year 12 at St Columba Anglican School. I became involved in the event through the Prefect position I have in my school's Student Leadership Council. This position, as well as my interest in music, allowed me to become involved in the organisation of Battle of the Bands as a member of the hosting school. I’m Olivia, and I am currently in Year 12 at St Joseph’s Regional College. I became involved in the event through my role as Captain at SJRC, in which myself and other members of my school’s Leadership Team volunteered to work in collaboration with St Columba and several other secondary schools from the Hastings area to organise the Battle of the Bands. I’m Isaac, and I am also in Year 12, studying at Camden Haven High School. I became involved with the Battle of the Bands through my position as school captain, and along with my fellow captains at CHHS, we have collaborated closely with the other involved student leaders in the area in organising the event. Explain the “Battle of the Bands” contest you’re involved with. How does it work? Battle of the Bands is a competition between the schools in the Hastings region organised by the Combined Hastings School Leadership Council. Each of the schools submit two bands to participate in the competition and perform in front of an audience of students from across the region; therefore, breaking the barriers and creating open dialogue between the schools. The competition is now an annual event, and

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the role of host will rotate through the schools. on the 7th May, commencing at 6pm. A BBQ Last year, St Joseph's Regional College hosted the will also be available on the night for students first Battle of the Bands; this year it will be held at wanting a bite to eat before the music begins. St Columba Anglican School. The event also aims Without giving too much away, tell us a bit at making a difference in the wider about the acts people will hear community, as all profits made on on the night. the night will be donated to The numerous acts that a nominated charity of the will perform on the night IS winning school. each have a unique T H IS Y EA R IT T A H T Tell us a bit about last musical style, ranging EX PE CT ED 0 42 Y EL year’s event of Battle from jazz to rock, A PP ROX IM AT BE L IL of the Bands. W satisfying almost ST U D EN T S O T E C N IE D This event was everybody's taste buds. IN T H E AU D N A EN ST LI , created in 2014 by last Although, not much WAT C H .” ER H ET G O T E year’s Combined Hastings else can be said about DA N C Student Leadership the specific details of the Council. It was held at St acts, one very important Joseph’s Regional College aspect can be discussed and had a terrific turnout with that is, that there is an absolute a number of great bands performing guarantee that all acts will be of high a variety of different styles of music. It was quality, with extremely amazing ability. It great to see the number of students from truly will be an excellent night, filled with all schools across the region coming together kinds of musical genius. and being a part of such a wonderful event. An event like this takes a lot of hard work to What schools, and roughly how many organise. Who are some people/schools etc. students, are involved this year? you’d like to acknowledge for their input? Schools involved in the event are St Columba Like any other event, there is a lot of behindAnglican School, Heritage Christian School, St the-scenes work and organisation needed for Joseph’s Regional College, MacKillop College, it to happen. All of our meetings took place at Hastings Secondary College and Camden Haven St Columba Anglican School, so they should be High School. Each of the schools has elected the first to be thanked for hosting. Second of two representatives and have meetings regularly all, there are many teachers dedicated to helping to organise the event. This year it is expected students get the event organised - one teacher that approximately 420 students will be in the is Peta Watters of St Columba Anglican School. audience to watch, listen and dance together. She must be thanked for her enthusiastic and When and where will the Battle of the Bands dedicated efforts to the event - never ceasing to be held this year? be supportive and positive. Similarly, we would This year Battle of the Bands will be held at like to thank each school’s Student Leadership St Columba Anglican School. It will take place Coordinator for their assistance and effective

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communication as they collaborated the logistics of many details of the event. Last but not least, this event would not happen without the involvement and enthusiasm of all the student leaders from the participating schools. Why do you feel events like this Battle of the Bands competition are so important for the school community? Battle of the Bands does not only bring secondary schools of the Hastings area together, it also creates a sense of community and school spirit within each school as they come together to support their respective bands in a fun and musical environment. Battle of the Bands assists in developing a school spirit in each of the schools involved the same way swimming and athletic carnivals do. Where can people purchase tickets to the event, and how much will they cost? The tickets will be available for students to purchase through their school. Student Leadership Council members will be selling tickets in the upcoming weeks for $4 during lunch and recess. Unfortunately, tickets are not available for the general public, as this is a student based initiative run by students, for the students. Please add anything else you feel may be relevant … The schools have been able to organise security for the night in order to ensure a safe environment for everyone coming along to enjoy the music. There will also be lots of food available to purchase on the night, including a BBQ and soft drinks. Students are strongly encouraged to bring along some money on the night to buy some snacks and lollies to keep up their energy to dance away the night to awesome music, while also supporting charity. Thanks guys. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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LocAl RecIpe

Image of the month. About: A great moment in time captured by Russell Hoffman, taken just at the right time by his GoPro camera at Lighthouse Beach. Amazing! Photo by: Russell Hoffman. Camera: GoPro. Taken a great photo of our local area? Like to see it published in FOCUS for the world to see? Just email editor@focusmag.com.au

Duck Spring Rolls

e XS â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ve ion B D k B er er e Classic Asian spices and duck meet traditional style British Colonial Proper Bitter. What could be more â&#x20AC;&#x153;FUSIONâ&#x20AC;? ...

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

I n g R e D i e Nt s WH

AT â&#x20AC;&#x2122; S I N

CHESTNUTS

Master Stock

Spring Rolls

1,500 ml water

2 bunches spring onions

750 ml Black Duck Brewery Proper Bitter

1 bunch coriander root

1 knob ginger, sliced

1 knob ginger, peeled and chopped

2 cloves garlic, halved

5 tsp hoisin sauce, or to taste

100 g palm sugar

10 ml soy sauce, or to taste

300 ml soy sauce

1 packet spring roll wrappers

6 pieces star anise

500 ml canola oil

4 whole cinnamon sticks 2 tbsp szechuan pepper 2 whole duck legs

Chestnut trees have been grown in Australia for over 100 years, bearing creamy-white nuts that have a delicate, sweet flavour. Their season is from March to July - perfect to roast over an open fire as the weather cools. If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have an open fire - donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry! Make a shallow cut through the shell on the flat side of the nut with the tip of a sharp knife first, or they will burst. Then place on a tray and pop under a moderate to hot grill for about 15 minutes, or until the shells split. You can do the same in a pan on the stove top. Wrap the cooked chestnuts in a clean tea-towel for five minutes, and give them a little squeeze. Remove the outer brown shell and inner skin while they are still warm. Toss the nuts in a little olive oil, fresh chilli and garlic salt for a delicious snack. They can also be used in stuffings, soups and desserts - a great source of information and recipes is www.chestnutsaustralia. com.au. Locally grown Comboyne chestnuts are available now at Growers Market in Gordon Street.

Brewer Alistair Owen Chef Craig Freudenstein

B D k B & XS FÂ?d

S E RV E S 6

MetHod Boil the stock and simmer for half an hour. Place the duck legs and hot master stock in a baking tray; cover with foil and braise in the oven for approximately 2 hours, or until the meat falls easily off the bone. Allow to cool in the liquid, before removing the meat off the bones. For extra flavour, use the skin. Strain the master stock, and boil rapidly to reduce. Final product will be a thick, sticky dipping sauce. When reduced, place aside and allow to cool. (XS foodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of an XO sauce.) Mix all of the spring roll ingredients together well until combined and evenly mixed. Add your shredded duck. Place the mix at the bottom of one of the wrappers and begin by folding in both sides to enclose, before rolling tightly. Secure by lightly brushing the very top of the inside of the wrapper with water, before rolling up to the end. Repeat the above process until all the mix is used. Heat the oil to approx. 180 degrees - you can test if it is hot enough by dropping in a small breadcrumb; if it sizzles, the oil is ready. If you see smoke rising from the oil, it is too hot. Fry the spring rolls until golden. Remove and drain on kitchen towel.

WHERE

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

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Serving Suggestion Serve with the XS foodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s version of Black Duck Brewery Proper Bitter XO sauce.

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2014

across the

FIVE DAYS, 500 KM AND WITH AN INDIVIDUAL FUNDRAISING TARGET OF $5,000, FOCUS’ VERY OWN JAY BEAUMONT PEDALLED HIS WAY ACROSS THAILAND WITH 45 OTHER BUSINESS OWNERS, ALL TO AID THE CHARITY HANDS ACROSS THE WATER ...

ell us about Hands Across the Water ... Hands Across the Water was founded by Peter Baines, a police forensic specialist working with the disaster victim identification team after the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami. Peter was deeply touched by the number of children left homeless and alone by the natural disaster. He was inspired to establish an organisation that could make a real difference. In 2004, they initially supported 32 kids who had lost their parents and were living in a tent at Baan Tharn Namchai in Phang-Nga, a town on Thailand’s northern Andaman coast. The kids were left without food, shelter or support. Today, Baan Tharn Namchai alone is home to over 100 children. Many of the children left orphaned by the Tsunami are now in high school and some are even attending university. Due to a huge need, Hands Across the Water now also financially supports seven other orphanages across Thailand. What started to help orphaned children from the Tsunami now cares for hundreds of kids who have come to orphanages for all sorts of reasons, some of which bring you to tears. What makes Hands Across the Water so special? Every cent we raise goes to the kids and their communities. No donors’ money goes to administration. Or staff costs. Or marketing. Or fundraising. It all goes to the kids. The care also comes without conditions. They don’t seek to impose a religion or belief system upon those they support. Hands simply give kids chances to grow according to their own beliefs and traditions. 10 greater port macquarie focus.

Whom did you ride with? I rode with 45 other business owners from Business Blueprint, which is a group that is run by my brother, Dale Beaumont. Everyone who undertook the ride was a Blueprint Member, raised a minimum of $5,000 and paid their own way over there, including doing the ride. All the money raised from each rider goes directly to Hands and the kids, and every single rider was committed to finishing the ride - both for the sense of achievement, but also as a commitment to all the people who financially supported our ride. Together we raised over $300,000 AUD, which goes a long way in Thailand. How long did the ride go for? The ride was 500 km over five days. Each day we completed about 120 km, with the final day being only about 50 km ... which, we found out, was because of the 4 km of straight uphill, which I had to do in the lowest gear I had. All the riders were well looked after by a great support team, who provide rest stops, bike mechanics and guides to help make sure you don’t get lost. What motivated you to keep pedalling? Each morning before we rode out, someone would read a real story from one of the kids at the orphanage - how they got there and what they have been through. Some stories were just horrific, and it was a very emotional time for everyone doing the ride. So when you’re out there pedalling up the 15th hill for the day, you’re motivated to keep going when your body is screaming to stop. Plus, a lot of local businesses had financially contributed to my ride, so not finishing wasn’t

an option. We hear it was pretty hot? The heat was unbearable some days. At one stage it was 43 degrees, and the sun was just blazing down. My drink bottle was lukewarm in 20 minutes. Add this to some steep hills and headwinds, and it became mind over body. Your body begs you to quit, but as long as I kept those pedals turning, I was always going to make it. What is the scenery like on the ride? AMAZING! Because we did our best to stay off the major roads, we did a lot of the riding along the ocean, through fishing villages and small towns. Everyone was friendly and greeted you with a wave as you rode by, some may even have been laughing at the sight of me in Lycra. Each day we were treated to something special - huge cliffs, stunning beaches, fishing boats, and we even rode across a Thai military base runway. You took some amazing photos too? Yes, as part of my ride I also took on the role of official photographer and videographer for the whole group. Each day I would do my best to finish each leg as quickly as I possibly could, so I could get photos of some of the other riders in action as they came into a rest stop. Needless to say, I didn’t get many pictures of the lead riders. There is a QR code at the end of this story, so you can watch the video. After the ride was finished, how did you relax? After the ride finished, we had the option of relaxing in a five star resort on the beach and

getting a much needed massage, or helping to build a pathway that should only take a few hours for the orphanage. That pathway turned out to be a 50m driveway up a hill. The orphanage had purchased a rubber plantation, with the aim of being self sustaining and needed access. Fifteen of us fought two concrete trucks of wet cement, which we had to hand bucket up the hill because it was so wet. Luckily, we had a builder with us that made some sense of the bamboo reinforcements and got us all working efficiently. Five truckloads later in the blazing heat, we had finished, just before the sun went down. As much as we had all missed relaxing by the beach, there was this amazing euphoria while sitting in the back of the orphanage bus on the way back to the hotel, drinking a cold Singa Beer, exhausted but full of pride. We all felt like we genuinely achieved something, and it was a day I’ll never forget. How can readers get involved? I’ll be committing to doing the ride again in 2016. If anyone would like to financially support my ride, with all money raised going to Hands, I would love to hear from you. Readers can also donate directly or register for a ride via www.handsacrossthewater.org.au Thanks Jay.

Watch the video from the ride

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focusinterview.

CHILDREN’ S CHOIR

Luke Warden is the tour organiser for the Mid North Coast leg of the African Children’s Choir’s upcoming visit to Australia. Children from the choir will be billeted by school families in Port Macquarie, the Camden Haven and Taree, and will present several concerts and public workshops in conjunction with our local school children throughout these areas. Don’t miss your opportunity to witness one of these performances - they promise to be something very special!

i Luke. Introduce yourself please … I am Luke Warden, a resident of the Mid North Coast since 2002. I live in Port Macquarie and work as a manager at North Haven Bowling Club. How did you first become aware of the African Children’s Choir? In 2012 I was invited to participate in an humanitarian tour to Uganda. This was conducted by the charity I volunteer for, KwaYa Australia. 50 travellers from across Australia took over $100,000 in raised charity funds and half a tonne of donated clothing to visit orphanages, perform cultural exchange activities with school children of the slums, fund and conduct cleanups in the slums, and conduct musical workshops and perform with the African Children’s Choir. Describe how the choir was brought to the Mid North Coast in 2013, as a result of this initial visit to Uganda - and explain the special visit the choir has planned again this year … Upon returning to Australia, some members of KwaYa discussed bringing the African Children’s Choir’s over for their first tour of eastern Australia (2013). Initially it was only planned for capital cities, but I convinced organisers that the Mid North Coast should be included in the tour. The purpose of the tour was to raise funds for the ongoing care of choir children, and fund sustainability and self-sufficiency initiatives at ACC’s primary boarding school in Uganda. The local leg of the tour was different in that, for the first time, the African Children’s Choir would be hosted by an Australian primary school. The children from ACC were welcomed into the homes of students of St Joseph’s Primary School, Laurieton. They attended school together, shared

greater port macquarie focus.

meals, played together after school and on the weekend, and performed together in concert. In all, over 1,000 tickets were sold to three sell-out events over three consecutive days. It provided a unique opportunity for local children to broaden their understanding of the world and participate in an event that they would remember for years to come. Due to the success of ACC’s visit to St Joseph’s, this year there will be more than 10 schools from Geelong in Victoria through to Southeast Queensland, hosting the choir on tour. With even more schools involved in performances and workshops, tens of thousands of Australian students will be a part of the 2015 tour. My sister, Mel Hunt, AP at St Joseph’s Primary School Laurieton during the 2013 tour, is now AP at St Joseph’s Primary School in Taree, who will host ACC on the last stop of their Mid North Coast tour. Following the 2013 tour, four members from two billet families, Jenny, Sam and Marg Black, and Tammy Magnus, were so moved by their own experience, that they joined KwaYa’s 2014 humanitarian tour to Uganda. Upon their return, Tammy and Jenny founded “KwaYa Arts of Africa”, a non profit initiative now based in Sydney, importing and selling arts and crafts made by Ugandans, with profits donated back to the artists. Jenny and Tammy have joined with 2013 billet mum Julie Krige to assist with preparations for the 2015 tour. Following the Australian tour, I will prepare for my return to Uganda in September, which will also be attended by Australian recording artist, Kate Miller-Heidke. What are the dates/local venues for the African Children’s Choir’s Under One Sky 2015 Australian Tour?

The African Children’s Choir will visit the Mid North Coast in the last week of May and the first week of June as part of their 2015 Under One Sky Australian Tour. To kick off the local tour, the choir will put on a free performance at the Slice of Haven Food & Wine Festival in Laurieton on Sunday 24 May, followed by a series of events in Port Macquarie, Camden Haven and Taree: Monday 25 May - Public Workshop - 7pm Performing Arts Centre, St Joseph’s Regional College - Port Macquarie Adults $15, Child/con. $10. Wednesday 27 May - Concert - 7:30pm The Glasshouse Theatre - Port Macquarie Hosted by St Joseph’s Regional College Adults $25, Child/con. $15. Thursday 28 May - Fundraising Diner - 6:30pm Oasis by the River Restaurant - North Haven Include drinks/canapes on arrival, main and dessert, with choir performances and presentation. $95 per person (limited to 50 seats). Saturday 30 May - Concert - 7pm North Haven Bowling & Recreation Club - North Haven. Hosted by St Joseph’s Primary School (Laurieton) Adults $15, Child/con. $10 Monday 1 June - Concert - 7:30pm Manning Entertainment Centre - Taree with the combined choirs of St Joseph’s Primary School (Taree) and St Clare’s High School Adult $25, Child/con. $15. Tuesday 2 June - Public Workshop - 7pm St Joseph’s Primary School - Taree Adults $15, Child/con. $10. TICKETS Tickets for the Fundraising Dinner at Oasis by the River are available at the venue only. Tickets for all other events are available from

the venue or online. Visit: www.kwaya.org/ ACCConcertsandWshops2015 or www.facebook. com/underoneskytour2015/events Which schools will be hosting the choir for their 2015 visit? Whilst on the Mid North Coast, the African Children’s choir will be hosted and billeted by and perform in concert with: Port Macquarie - St Joseph’s Regional College. Camden Haven - St Joseph’s Primary School (Laurieton). Taree - St Joseph’s Primary School (Taree), joined in concert by St Clare’s High School. For the duration of their stay, each school will provide billets to cater for meals, accommodation, washing, transport and all other living needs. Tell us more about the format of the concerts and public workshops … The format of concerts will be 30 minutes (host choir), 1 hour (African Children’s Choir) plus combined choir finale. The Public Workshops are described as a grass roots cultural exchange with the children of The African Children’s Choir that will entertain adults and children alike. Grab this very rare opportunity to get up close and personal with the choir. This event is all about public participation - learn the songs, the dance moves, and the art of African Drumming as the children invite you to share in their story. You will laugh, you may well cry, and you will be touched forever by the warmth and pure joy of these amazing children. Who are the sponsors for this year’s Mid North Coast tour? The Mid North Coast tour is supported by North Haven Bowling & Recreation Club, Bonny Hills Friendly Grocer (Julie Krige). The Camden Haven leg of the tour is sponsored by Camvet Veterinary Surgery (Gavin Rippon). Thanks Luke. Interview by Jo Atkins.

A UA GY U 2S 0T 1 25 0 1 4 AROUND THE REGION //M

5 21 10

The Art with Special Guests

Rydges High Tea on the Hastings

In honour of "The Racing for Rach"- Camp Quality Fund. Live entertainment and fashion parade on Level 1 overlooking the water, World ParTea, Cassegrain Sparkling Wine and an array of sweet and savoury delicacies. When Saturday 30th May - 2pm - 6pm. Tickets $39pp. Bookings Phone Kate Wood-Foye on 6589 2888 or email kate_woodfoye@rydges.com Tickets also available at reception.

more moreinformation information

Mother’s Day @ Sails Resort by Rydges

Breakfast - 6:30am - 10:30am; last bookings 10am. Lunch - Bookings from noon. Two course menu, $45pp. Three course menu $55pp. Reduced à la carte. Kids’ menu $10.50 per child. Live entertainment from duo Suave, 12:30pm - 3:30pm. When Sunday 10th May 2015. Bookings Ph. (02) 6589 5100.

Garden Village Op Shop The Op Shop is open Wednesday and Thursday each week from 9am - 12:30pm and on every 2nd Saturday, so all are welcome to browse the store, located on the Western side, access via Findlay Avenue.

Dead Inside Single Release Tour. When 21 May at the Pier on Clarence, Port Macquarie. Tickets Available from the venue.

Local, Handmade Goods For Sale The Blue Building on the corner of Lake Road and Gordon St. When Saturday May 2nd - 9am - 3pm. Where Port Macquarie Art and Craft Centre. Free entry.

Call the Visitor Information Centre on 6581 8000

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STAND UP PADDLE PROJECT Henry Whitehead’s school trip to Hideaway Island, Vanuatu in 2014 was a life changing experience. Making good friends with the local NiVan people from Mele Village and being moved by their positive attitude and challenging lifestyle, Henry has put his skills as a

qualified Stand Up Paddle Board instructor to good use, creating a business that will help these people well into the future. Find out how you can help Henry

ell us about yourself and your interest in Stand Up Paddle boarding … Our family moved to the Port Macquarie area, from Melbourne, when I was only two years old. We lived in Telegraph Point, and my sister and I attended Telegraph Point Public School. My secondary schooling was at St Joseph’s Regional College and then at Newman Secondary Technical College, where I was the School Captain of 2014. I gained entry to the Australian Army Reserve in 2013 and recently I finalised my training in the Infantry as a Rifleman. My parents gave my sister and me a Stand Up Paddle lesson with a local instructor, Wayne Dean, for Christmas 2012. At the end of my lesson, I asked Wayne if he needed any help with the business. Wayne spent time mentoring me, before I gained my Stand Up Paddle qualifications with ASI (Australian Surf Institute) in both enclosed and open water categories. I then went on to manage Wayne’s business whenever he was interstate or overseas. Over the last Christmas holidays I worked with Damien Treloar of The Last Suppa at South West Rocks, gaining further experience in the management of a Stand Up Paddle business. When did you first visit Hideaway Island, Vanuatu, and what impressions did you take away from your stay? In June 2014, I went with a group of students from Newman Senior Technical College to Hideaway Island, as the school does on alternate years for practical application in the Marine Studies course. During the one week stay on Hideaway Island, I quickly felt a connection with the local NiVan people from the nearby Mele Village, who work at the island resort.

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ensure the success of Stand Up Paddle South Pacific … We visited Mele Village as part of our school trip, and I saw how these wonderful people lived. NiVan are happy people, who do not complain. They are self-sufficient and look after each other within their extended family network. Members of the village who work, usually in tourism, support their family with the small amount of money they earn. The minimum wage in Vanuatu is $1.70 per hour, and the cost of living is about the same as in Australia. The village school has very limited resources. Schooling is only free until Year 8, then parents must pay to send their children away for a higher education. Mele Village is home to about 4,000 people. The roads which divide up the village are dirt tracks with deep potholes. They allow water to run into people’s homes and are difficult to navigate during rain. Most homes do not have running water or toilets. People wash in the river, which is also used for drinking water … How did you come up with the idea for Stand Up Paddle South Pacific? Whilst I was in Vanuatu in June last year, I started to think how I could help make a difference to the lives of my friends and the other villagers. I realised that Stand Up Paddle was not being promoted as it could be, especially if a cultural experience with local NiVan people was included in a new tourism experience. I kept insisting to my parents that this idea could work and they helped me make enquiries, firstly with Vanuatu authorities in Vanuatu and then the Vanuatu High Commission in Canberra. I planned an end of Year 12 trip last year to Vanuatu with two of my mates, and then I stayed on a further 10 days, living in the village with my NiVan friends. My parents and sister also travelled to Vanuatu for the final days of my trip. They assisted me in formally evaluating the business opportunities,

establishing contact with the tourism association and relevant government agencies, the registration of the business Stand Up Paddle South Pacific, and a business licence to operate in Vanuatu. ASI will also assist me to train and qualify staff, market the business and implement business processes so the business can be an accredited ASI training centre. How will this business operate? The business has been registered and a business licence obtained in the names of two NiVan men and my friends, from Mele Village. As a qualified instructor, I will be able to assist the two business owners and other members of the villageto obtain their globally recognised qualification with ASI. Once I have been able to purchase all the necessary equipment to operate the business, my next task will be to ramp up the marketing, especially arrangements with the tens of cruise ships that visit each month. How will this business benefit the people in Mele Village - especially in light of the recent devastation Vanuatu has faced as a result of Cyclone Pam? The business model is to pay business operating expenses, and then the profits will be used to benefit the people of Mele Village. Prior to Cyclone Pam, the urgent needs we have already identified were toilets with a sanitation system, grading of the village’s internal roads, improved resources for the children at the village school. Since Cyclone Pam’s devastation, the more urgent needs are shelter, sanitation, clean water and the re-establishment of their food gardens. We have researched cheap safe drinking water systems designed by the University of SA for a Papua New Guinea project and cheap, simple reed bed sanitation systems like those used in Lord Howe Island. Who has been instrumental in helping you get the project off the ground?

Without the support and assistance given by my family and friends, I would not have been able to reach the point I have to date. I’d like to thank Greg and Angela from Constable Printing for their assistance with my logo, which has been used on the T-shirts I have been selling. The First Secretary of the Vanuatu High Commission in Canberra, Mr. William Scanlon, has also been supportive. How can locals help? Along with the profit from the great quality T-shirts I am currently selling for $20, I have received generous cash donations from supportive family and friends. I have used these funds to assist with the purchase of 12 Stand Up Paddle boards and paddles. I have used my own money, earned from my Army pay, to pay for the $4,000 shortfall. I have personally borrowed funds to purchase a second hand 9 seater bus, which is a vital part of the business plan. We need the vehicle to collect the visiting tourists from the large number of cruise ships that visit Port Vila each month and to collect other tourists from their accommodation. The tourists will be driven to the Stand Up Paddle venue on Port Vila Bay. Freighting costs are very expensive - quotes we have received are around $6,000. A great number of visitors to Port Vila are from Australia. Port Macquarie businesses could benefit from promoting their assistance to this project, as their support would be acknowledged with their logo or business name on a board and the Stand Up Paddle South Pacific Facebook page. Anyone can sponsor a board for $400. More info? People can call me: 0466 544 355, visit our Facebook page or email: standuppaddlesouthpacific@gmail.com Thanks Henry. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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CAS AND JONESY LIFE’S AN ADVENTURE

CAS AND JONESY, TWO YOUNG AUSSIE ADVENTURERS WHO HAVE TAKEN ON THE WILDEST OF WILD EXPEDITIONS AND SUCCEEDED IN DOING SO, ARE VENTURING TO THE LUMINOSITY YOUTH SUMMIT IN PORT MACQUARIE. JONESY SHARES PART OF THEIR JOURNEY WITH FOCUS…

ake us back to beginning. Where did you grow up, and what were your interests as a child? I was born in Hornsby in Sydney, but at 6 months of age moved to Indonesia. My mum is actually Chinese Indonesian and my dad was working over there. I lived there for the next 11 years in some interesting jungle settlements near mines that my dad worked at and also in Jakarta, the major capital there. As a child I was a pretty curious individual; I was quite gregarious and open and loud when I was young. I was the youngest of three. The outdoors become a really important thing for me when I was in high school; that was when Cas and I actually met and we starting going out on small bush walks. Initially it was with the Cadets, but our trips just started getting bigger and bigger. Where did the crazy idea come from to take on the Tasman Sea in a kayak? In 2001, Cas and I and another friend from school were in our first year of university. We decided to paddle the entire length of the Murray River; as I mentioned before, we started out as just bushwalkers and then it seemed like the next obvious step ... Kayaking

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is like bushwalking on water. You can cover heads at the time; it was absolutely amazing. We greater distances, and being on the water is an first saw land from two days out; it was day 60, amazingly freeing thing to do. So, we decided and we were 113 km from land and we saw the to paddle down the entire length of the Murray top of Mt Taranaki on the North Island. It was River, and I can’t remember exactly what day it just beautiful, the sun was setting, it was just was, but it was on that trip that Cas perfect - it was an amazing moment. turned around to me and said, She disappeared from view and “Hey mate, can you imagine we paddled on through the doing something like this night, but when we first I suppose I’m but out in the open reached land, jumping motivated by aste ocean? Do you reckon off that kayak, feeling not wanting to w . I ve anyone’s ever paddled a sand between our toes, this life that I ha say I to want to be able kayak from Australia to staggering between d truly actually well an d New Zealand?” At the 25,000 people who ce lived; I experi en d time, I told him he was were down on this ul all the things I co .” an absolute idiot. I didn’t beach to greet us in ne possibly have do want anything to do with ... It was phenomenal. it; I actually thought that he I’m getting worked up just had heatstroke and he’d fried thinking about it. Nothing is his brain! We actually didn’t talk probably going to be able to beat about this idea for the next two or three that feeling of finishing that end. Our years, and then it popped back into our family and our friends were there; there consciousness and we started working out was an overwhelming sense of pride and how we could potentially piece this trip together. accomplishment, of disbelief that so many What emotions were running through you people had come out to see us. I initially thought as you reached land, after completing the that they’d painted the foreshore all different trip? colours and mentioned that to Cas, and he said, So many feelings were going through our “No, you idiot they’re actually people!” It was

“

phenomenal; we were on a high for so long after that expedition. Since achieving that amazing goal, you and Cas have set out on some extreme adventures, defeating the odds and proving that anything is possible. How do you keep so motivated? That’s a tough question. It’s a very individual thing, what motivates someone. I suppose I’m motivated by not wanting to waste this life that I have. I want to be able to say I actually well and truly lived; I experienced all the things I could possibly have done. And there’s a fear of sort of missing out on that. I have enough regrets in my life, so I’ve made the stand that I don’t want to regret anything else. I want to go out there and chase these adventures - and these expeditions really give you an idea of what makes you tick as a human being. You go out there and you push yourself to extremes; it’s interesting to see how you operate as a person ... When you’re working on a dream for three and a half years/four years, you become quite motivated to actually see it succeed. You’re not going to let things deter you, because you’ve worked on that for so long, you own that project - it’s yours - and of course it helps having your

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mate there pushing you along and being there “All right, this is what we’ve got to do to get out for each other. No one wants to go through a of this situation” ... journey alone. There’s no, “What should we really do”; it’s Talk us through some of highest points in kind of like we know what to do straightaway, your journey so far … and having that course of action is a really I suppose there’s a lot, reaching New Zealand, important thing. and actually even pushing off that first day on Cas and I always say preparation is king. These that expedition after three and a half years with expeditions are 95% or 99% preparation and this idea that so many people told us it wasn’t only 5% or 1% in the execution. You’ve got to possible. When we pushed out of Forster, that think everything through beforehand. feeling was just amazing; we felt like we’d Having been awarded the title of one of the succeeded at that point alone. We’ve met some country’s best motivational speakers, what’s pretty amazing, crazy, brilliant people along the vibe you and your partner in adventure, the way who have helped us ... The training Cas, will be bringing to the Luminosity trips, paddling across Bass Strait, that was an Youth Summit in July this year? unbelievable experience. Going to Baffin Island, We really want to show people that Cas and stepping out of a plane and you take a breath of I, we’re pretty ordinary, average blokes. We air in and the moisture in your nostrils weren’t the smartest guys at school, just all freezes up - just all those we weren’t the fittest, the best things, those experiences. looking or anything like Life is all about that. But we were guys We try to make experiences, and those who had this idea, and ns our presentatio experiences are just we went out there and use the fun as well, beca amazing. Antarctica - I methodically worked bloody expeditions are don’t really want to away at it ... and really, ic a tough. In Antarct give this away, but the it’s that preparation and lost I lost 30 kg , Cas rd end of that expedition plan that enabled us to ha 26 kg ; it’s really was utterly brilliant ... go out there and follow work.” Phenomenal, absolutely this crazy dream. A lot of phenomenal. people in life tell you that With highs also come lows; you can’t do things, and I’d there must’ve been some times question that. I’d say, “Well, why where you were frightened for your can’t you?” life. How do you deal with moments like The expeditions for us really took our this? blinkers off and made us believe that just about There definitely were times that we were both anything is possible, as long as you go out there terrified for what might or what could happen. and do it in a safe, responsible manner, with On the Antarctic journey, Cas fell waist deep preparation and planning, and getting the right into a crevasse - one leg kind of just completely team around you. disappeared down there, and that was terrifying. We try to make our presentations fun as well, On the Tasman we had storms with 10 metre because the expeditions are bloody tough. In waves crashing around us. We had a horrible Antarctica I lost 30 kg, Cas lost 26 kg; it’s really night where the parachute anchor line had hard work. wrapped around a rudder, and we didn’t know But there’s a lot of fun and light and it’s a that was going to break the whole back end of journey of ups and downs - and that’s life. the kayak or would bend our rudder. Biggest thing though, is to really go out there Incredibly terrifying, but if you know that and show people that if you want to go out you’ve done all the right preparation and there and follow your passions, then do - just planning and you’ve thought about every make sure you do it in the right manner and eventual possibility that could happen out there don’t necessarily listen to all the naysayers. and you’ve planned for it, it enables you to There are two different kinds of naysayers out actually deal with situations when they crop up. there: ones who come from an uneducated You can go into a bit of robo-mode, and think, background, and others who come from a

“

perspective of some weight or knowledge. It’s the latter group that you’ve got to listen to. People told us we couldn’t do the kayak trip; they turned around and said, “You shouldn’t be doing that, because of these reasons” - and it was those people that we worked with and said, “Ok, how can we actually satisfy you”, making sure the points they raised were addressed. So don’t be afraid to dream big! Any new adventures in the pipeline? There’s definitely always an adventure to be had, and it’s an interesting thing, Cas and I have always had a saying that adventure is relative. No one can tell you what your adventure is going to be; it’s relative to yourself and that’s it, whether its going off and doing an expedition like we did or going off and jumping into a business and starting that up, or going off and acting in a play. Cas has started a business up in the Blue

Mountains where he lives, and it’s about getting people into the outdoors, and I’m working on expedition plans, there are going to be two. One is happening in September of this year up in the Pilbara, and one is happening next year here in the outback, which is going to be a pretty long exhibition ... but more details on that later. And finally, where can our readers find out more about Cas and Jonesy and follow your journey? Check us out at casandjonesy.com.au and Facebook. Thanks Jonesy.

the plug! See Cas and Jonesy at the Luminosity Youth Summit, July 15. Book now: www.luminosityyouthsummit.com.au

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THE GLIMMER BALL H A S T I N G S

C A N C E R

T R U S T

The main fundraiser for the Hastings Cancer Trust each year is the glamorous Glimmer Ball, which will be held on the 20th June 2015.

ickets to the Glimmer Ball are has popped up on Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Generation much sought after, making and has hosted the delightful Can We Help on the event one of the most the ABC. We can expect him to host a riotously memorable nights in funny and enjoyable evening. the year’s social Various items will be auctioned calendar. and monetary donations will Glimmer Ball guests be accepted during the Peter enjoy a show, a delicious evening to raise much Rowsthorn 3 course seated dinner, needed funds for the , gy is a high ener a few drinks and a Trust. A photographer dan st d fast pace e great time with a table and photo booth will on n ia ed up com a of friends or work be in operation to help d an e ut min ter colleagues, while raising guests record and take measured charac money for the Hastings home a memento of their actor the next .” Cancer Trust. Glimmer Ball evening. And One of Australia’s most at the end of the evening recognised comedians, Peter guests can kick up their heels Rowsthorn, will be the MC. Peter with some dancing ‘til late. Rowsthorn is a high energy, fast paced For more information, like us on stand-up comedian one minute and a Facebook: The Glimmer Ball - Hastings measured character actor the next. Best Cancer Trust. known as long-suffering husband and pantsTo reserve your tickets to the Glimmer Ball, man Brett Craig on Kath & Kim, Peter has also contact Caroline Hill on 0437 139 617 or appeared regularly on Thank God You're Here, NCCICRU@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au

“

The work of the Hastings Cancer Trust is already well known and valued by the communities of the Hastings and Macleay.

or over ten years we have embraced it as our own local cancer charity. Local is a word used a lot in conversations about the Hastings Cancer Trust. A local not for profit organisation, administered by Trustees who are local people, the Trust raises money through local volunteers, at local events, run and supported by the local community. With the aim of providing funding to assist our local cancer services provide state-of-theart treatment for people in the region who are battling cancer, the Hastings Cancer Trust calls for funding applications each year from anyone involved in the management of cancer in the Hastings / Macleay region. Applications usually seek to meet a wide range of needs for example, for funding varied resources for patient accommodation and hospice facilities, for special projects to improve the access of local patients to the latest treatments and bring new facilities for cancer care to this area, funding for local cancer research, and funding

for staff involved in cancer service provision to advance their professional education, and much more. The focus is on providing supplementary funding for projects and unmet needs that are beyond the scope of ongoing Government funding for cancer services. Thanks to generous local support, the Trust has already granted more than $665,000 for worthy local projects. This makes the Trust instrumental in enhancing the quality of cancer care in the region. Importantly, patients don't need to travel to metropolitan areas to receive their cancer treatments. All money raised is by volunteers, with no administration costs, and so all funds stay in the area to provide resources at a local level. This makes every dollar donated to the Hastings Cancer Trust optimally effective and impactful. For more information on the Hastings Cancer Trust visit www.hastingscancertrust.org.au

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Symphony of Australia Iconic bush poetry, soaring vocals and an exhilarating orchestral composition, with international opera stars Renae Martin, Jose Carbo and the Australian Institute of Music Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Gavin Lockley

Sunday 7 June 2.00pm - Gates open 5.00pm - Main act

Port Macquarie

n o Pat a erson Banj nj at r Law a son Henry ry aw Dorothea Mackellar CJ Dennis Information and tickets from

www.regionalconcerts.com.au Tickets also from the Glasshouse, Cassegrain Winery, at www.ticketbooth.com.au or on 1300 762 344 Bring your picnic rugs and camping chairs and stake your place on the grass for this magical concert event

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Gavin Lockley S Y M P H O N Y OF AUS TRA L I A Gavin Lockley is an Australian composer, singer, pianist and conductor with a particular passion for all things Australian. Together with Symphony of Australia and Regional Concerts, Gavin is bringing a magical outdoor performance of iconic bush poetry, soaring vocals and an exhilarating orchestral composition to Cassegrain Winery on June7.

hen did you realise your passion for music and performing? I started singing when I was 10 years old. I had an audition for Lés Miserable in Sydney and it was a bit of whim, but I ended up getting the role of the little kid in the show. Getting the part was an accident really, but it definitely whet my appetite for performing; the character was a really obnoxious kid, and they must have thought that I was obnoxious enough to pull it off! I did music lessons and piano, and this was the big event that made me really want to pursue a career in the industry. How have you gained your experience to get to where you are today? I just said yes to everything! If I was asked if I could sing, I said yes. If could I play the piano? I said yes. So I think I faked it for ages, and eventually the build up of experience won out. You do as many performances as you can, and you learn as much as you can as you go. What have been some of the highlights of your career? The Symphony of Australia show which was done with Sydney Symphony at the Opera house a couple of years ago was a big and exciting show. Another highlight was when my wife, Renae, and I got asked to sing at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle, which was an incredible experience. Sometimes some of the best gigs are also the ones you don’t see coming - when you go on tour and it’s just you and the piano and it’s just a really lovely and intimate experience with a small crowd. Before starting this tour, we did a performance with a full orchestra at the beautiful Mayfield Gardens in Bathurst. It was an outdoor concert with a fantastic view and stunning landscape; the outdoor events are

relaxing with a great vibe, and everyone can appreciate the setting. Bringing the Symphony of Australia event to Cassegrain Winery and Coffs Harbour Showgrounds in June, what will the show entail? The show includes international Opera stars Renae Martin and Jose Carbo with the Australian Institute of Music Orchestra in an outdoor setting. I will be conducting my musical compositions to favourite Australian bush poets Banjo Paterson and Henry Lawson. I hope that what André Rieu has done with music in European culture, we can achieve for Australian culture. Not in a comparative way, but it’s a dream to create Australian content that is about celebrating the Australian way of life and Australian bush poets. The Symphony Orchestra makes it really colourful and exciting; I’m trying to make Australian culture as epic as I can. With an iconic Australian theme, how will the show be celebrating Australia’s cultural heritage? Some of the famous writers portrayed throughout the show include Banjo Paterson, Henry Lawson, Dorothea Mackellar with the iconic I Love a Sunburnt Country, and C.J Dennis, who is the great folk poet or backyard philosopher of Melbourne. People took his poems to Gallipoli and used to read them in a little book to help them remember home. The poets that we are reading about are the people who helped form the Australian identity. They’re all about family, good Australian values, the beauty of the land and everything that we should celebrate. Tell us about Regional Concerts and Mobile Stage Truck and how they have helped to bring this performance together. Well, Regional Concerts is the concert management leg of Mobile Stage Truck,

and they are aiming to bring new and unique, outdoor music events to the people of regional areas. I think what is really great about this event is that we are performing on one of their mobile stage trucks. What this means is that a show of this enormous size can suddenly happen absolutely anywhere. Mobile stage trucks open up to become a concert hall stage in the middle of nowhere; it is just brilliant. Being able to perform literally anywhere brings a whole new level to what we can do, combining stunning landscapes with the huge sounds of an orchestral musical performance. It was great to get involved with Mobile Stage Truck when we did the show at Mayfield Gardens in Bathurst, and after this event we decided to work together to bring more of these shows to other regional areas. Why is it special to be able to bring this event to regional areas like Port Macquarie and Coffs Harbour? It is a show that will be a first for some, and it will be a great cultural celebration with the really beautiful kinds of sounds that people probably haven’t heard as much as everything else. It will be a magic performance with an intimate and relaxed vibe outside in a beautiful setting. We hope to bring the community together with the epic massiveness of a full orchestral sound with a choir. When I was a kid I always went to Fantasy Glades in Port Macquarie and thought it was magic; the area was part of my earliest childhood memories - a big shoe that you could go inside, right? I hope we recreate some magic too at our performance! Don’t miss the performance at Cassegrain Winery on Sunday 7th June. Visit regionalconcerts.com.au for tickets and info.

focusinterview.

BE IN G A BL E TO A E SO CI A LI SE , H AV D N A ER S CO U PL E O F BE E IT R U O V PL AY YO U R FA D IE N CE IS U A TU N ES TO A N M E. M IX IN G W H AT D R IV ES K IN G IT FU N IT U P A N D M A .” IT IS TH E K EY TO

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DJ URBY

PROPAGANDA DJS DJ URBY FROM PROPAGANDA DJS IS NO ROOKIE WHEN IT COMES TO TURNING A CROWD INTO A PARTY. FOCUS CATCHES UP WITH URBY PENDING HIS ARRIVAL AT THE BEACH HOUSE, BRINGING WITH HIM A STACK OF HEADPHONES FOR WHAT IS KNOWN AS A SILENT DISCO ...

ell us a bit about yourself; when and how did you first discover DJing, and how did it become a career path for you? I've always been a massive music nerd for guitar music, but being tone deaf and having terrible timing didn't lend itself to forming a band! I fell into Djing after boozy house parties when the actual DJ got too “tired and emotional”! Played a couple of weddings with a friend, then hassled the crap out of the promoters at my favourite nightclub for a spot. That was almost ten years ago now. Since then, it's been promoting parties and playing almost everything I've been offered, striving to put on the best party possible with great guests. Being able to socialise, have a couple of beers and play your favourite tunes to an audience is what drives me. Mixing it up and making it fun is the key to it. When playing a set, do you like to mix things up when it comes to deciding what tracks you’re going to play, or are you more structured? It always starts with a structure and a plan; that quickly goes out of the window after about 20 minutes! No gig ever really goes how you expect it to; that's the beauty of it,

Keep switching to find your jam! really. There's a vague plan - very vague! Silent Disco is what we do best; we'll be Biggest highlight of your career so far operating three different channels of music. and why? It also gets competitive between the DJs (or I've been very fortunate to be involved maybe that's just me!). The aim for with some really fun events. Playing us is to try and make the crowd every night at Glastonbury 2014 forget where they are and is something I never thought get them to unashamedly would happen - growing belt out every tune at up in England, it was ER N O G IG EV the top of their lungs! nice to return to play ES O G R EA LLY CT Describe the vibe such a massive and PE EX H OW YO U E TH ’S we can expect at iconic festival. AT IT TO ; TH , IT F O the Port Macquarie Playing the Big Day TY BE AU E’ S ER TH Y. gig. Out silent disco tour LL EA R Silent Disco always in 2013 was another A VAGU E PL A N has the best vibe, one - being involved V ERY VAGU E! ” because everyone has with a festival I loved as the option of switching to a punter. It was a magical a channel they love; we're alcouple of weeks touring with ways bang up for a party. It won't some of the biggest bands in the just be guitar music - it'll be massive world; it was a small glimpse into the singalong tunes, regardless of genre. We'll world of large scale touring. Plus, the be bringing our festival set up for the show after parties were next level! too; brace yourself! You’re coming to Port Macquarie this Favourite track at the moment? month for a Silent Disco. What’s the One track is too hard! I'm currently loving concept behind this idea? Circa Waves, The Orwells, Royal Blood, Tame For anyone unfamiliar with silent disco Impala and Drenge! you get given a pair of great sounding headphones that have a small switch on the side, What are your plans for the next 12 flick the switch, and you'll hop channels. months?

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Plenty more gigs. Every Thursday in Sydney and first Friday of the month in Newcastle. Also just looking at some exciting international guest DJ sets for the winter and lining up a national Uni Silent Disco tour. Stay tuned; there may be some festival news fairly soon too. Where can our readers follow and find out more about you and Propaganda Djs? www.thepropaganda.com will give you a good idea of what we do on a weekly basis. The DJ section on the website is a collection of DJ info and mugshots (check the variable range of awkwardness in club photography!) I also host an indie rock show on Bondi Radio every Monday night from 7pm - 9pm AEST. You can tune live in via www.bondiradio.com.au or search for Bondi Radio on Mixcloud to play them back. Thanks DJ Urby.

the plug! S4 Productions presents Propaganda DJs Silent Disco, Saturday 16 May 2015 (opening 7pm) at The Beach House, Town Green, Port Macquarie. $28.60 **18+**

greater port macquarie focus.

Roasted rabbit saddle & rack, braised leg pithier, parsnip puree, carrot mousse, parsley. from zebu

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

greater port macquarie focus.

meg&me espresso Enjoy The Experience! Meg & Me Espresso is a vibing hole in the wall style espresso bar which focuses solely on excellent coffee, while also offering an exclusive selection of gourmet tea products. Anthony prides himself on consistent quality and has worked tirelessly to create a welcoming, friendly environment in which to enjoy your daily coffee ritual. Machine: Port’s only 3 Group Synesso. Blend: Meg & Me runs an exclusive blend of Holy Goat Coffee. Also Available: Bonsoy; Lactose Free, Almond and Organic Coconut Milks; Brewed Chai; Tea Forte; RawC Coconut Water; Bliss Balls & Cold Pressed Juices.

mi casa cafÉ & restaurant Enjoy the rustic atmosphere and Spanish vibe at Mi Casa Spanish Café, Restaurant and Tapas Bar. With great views overlooking the Town Green, the wide menu range boasts an array of tapas, seafood dishes and traditional Spanish favourites. Check out our New lunch Favourites, including the 15 hour slow cooked beef Brisket Slider (pictured), Spicy Pork Poh Boy and a Spanish style Hot Dog with Chorizo & Jamon. Premium selection wine menu is available, including Marlborough 3 Tales SB, Penfolds and Spanish favourites. • Lunch and Tapas Wed - Sat from 11:30am - 2pm • Live music Saturday nights • Bookings preferred

Owners Brendan & Jennis Field. Owner Anthony Mathias.

Shop 12 / 6-14 Clarence St (Port Pacific building) 6583 7773

3/2 Horton Street (Located on Town Green), Port Macquarie. 6584 4559 Lunch / Tapas: Wed - Sat from 11:30am - 2pm. Dinner: Tues - Sun from 6pm.

Monday-Friday from 6:30am and Saturday-Sunday from 7am

Pancakes, fresh berry compote, mascarpone, maple syrup.

Pistachio lamb cut

restaurant synergy

beantree garden café

Where food and service work in harmony.

Enjoy lunch in the garden this Mother’s Day. Your choice of Serving delicious coffee, breakfast and lunch, Beantree Café is the Chicken Pomodoro - chicken stuffed w cherry tomatos, fetta and basil. perfect place for a shopping break or a catch up with friends, located in a Slow baked mustard scotch fillet relaxing garden setting right in the centre of town. Grilled Barramundi Fresh Summer Menu! The chefs at Beantree are passionate about using and for dessert local, seasonal produce to create a delicious menu with a wide choice to Sticky datechoose pudding or choc basket w strawberries from. Booking recommended. The weekly specials board will keep you coming back to see what’s Lunch fromon11:30am the menu! Try one of our fresh summer salads such as the quinoa and All mums recieve FREEwith glass of bubbles their main meal. chickenasalad mixed greens, with packed shredded chicken breast, basil

beantree garden café

Popular Restaurant Synergy & Bar located in the heart of town, at the Mercure Centro Hotel. Offering modern Australian cuisine at its best. Diary Date: MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST: 7am-11am, Sunday 10th May. *Complimentary champagne breakfast for mum ½ PRICE for the kids / LUCKY DOOR PRIZE for one lucky mum. RELAX this Mother’s Day!Enjoy an array of scrumptious hot and cold delights from our breakfast buffet or choose from our fresh new look breakfast menu. *Offer restricted to one complimentary breakfast per one full paying adult. Not valid with any other discounts.

Cnr Hay & William Streets, Port Macquarie 6583 0830 www.centrohotel.com.au 7 days, 6:30am - 10am for breakfast; 5pm - late for dinner. Bookings essential.

Executive Chef Nathaniel.

Chef Jason.

pesto oil and topped with a poached egg (pictured above). Fresh cakes made in-house by our pastry chef are the perfect addition to a freshly roasted Botero coffee.

St, Port Macquarie 124 Horton124 St,Horton Port Macquarie 6583 30556583 3055 Mon - Fri- 8am - 3:30pm. (Lunch7:30am served until 2:30pm). Sat 8:30am - 1pm. Mon - Fri, 7:30am 3:30pm. Saturday, - 2pm. (Breakfast and light lunch served until 1pm). Closed Sun and public holidays. Closed Sun and public holidays.

Jamon, sousvide egg, asparagus, seeded mustard & croquettes.

zebu bar+grill

greater port macquarie focus. Head to the waterfront this festive season and enjoy summer Zebu style with loads of

yummy dishes on our casual dining and bar

Mixed tap

Pomegranate ice cream, dark chocolate cream, hazelnut praline and fudge.

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar

zebu bar+grill

Relax in the sun and fresh sea air with a full buffet breakfast from 6:30am – 10:30am with Mum at Spinnakers Restaurant and deck at Sails Resort.

breakfast or lunch at Zebu Bar + Grill. Enjoy a full buffet breakfast from

Treat mum to a special Mother’s Day on the waterfront with a scrumptious 6:30am or an al a carte breakfast overlooking the water from 7am till noon.

Treat Mum to lunch and soak up the marina side atmosphere as you and

Don’t miss out on Mother’s Day lunch from 12noon

the family enjoy an afternoon on the water. Chillax with live

$45pp – Two course reduced à la carte menu $55pp – Three course reduced à la

entertainment from Duo Suave’ from12noon.

carte menu. Relax with the family with live entertainment from Duo Elk from 12

$45pp – Two course reduced à la carte menu $55pp – Three course reduced à la carte menu Mothers Day Gift – Each Mum will go into the draw to win a $180 Deluxe Pamper Treatment at the Vanity Room (Drawn onsite on Mothers Day)

Head Chef Michael Schubert.

noon till 3:30pm. Kids menu available for $11:00pm per little one. Bookings essential for lunch seating. Diary Date: the perfect gift for Mothers Day – treat her to a “High Tea on the Hastings”. Our special event on Sat 30 May 2015 2pm–6pm - $39pp including

DIARY DATE: Rockabilly Dinner Dance on the Bay - Saturday 27 June 2015 6:30pm $55pp A glass of bubbles on arrival, two courses + live rock ‘n’ roll

sweet and savoury treats, sparkling bubbles, fashion and live entertainment to raise funds for Camp Quality. Prizes for best hat, fascinator and most elegant lady.

Located inside Sails Resort Port Macquarie by Rydges. Park St, Port Macquarie at the roundabout, opp Settlement City 6589 5100

Hay Street Foreshore, Port Macquarie 6589 2822 www.zebu.com.au

7 days, from 6:30am - late. Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

off the hook

salty's bar and grill

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

Happy Mother’s Day to all our customers and their families. This Mothers Day why not enjoy a beautifuly cooked meal over looking the water with a perfect glass of bubbles or ice cold beer. Mum will love being taken out of the house and somewhere special for dinner and Salty’s Bar and Grill is just the place to go. Salty’s has a dinner menu this Mothers Day that is sure to impress the whole family. Call to secure your spot over looking the stunning Hastings River. Bookings are essential.

We offer a great variety of choice: tasty old style hamburgers, snacks, salads and of course, fish and chips. We have added a larger selection of fish to our menu, including our favourite, the Flathead fillets.

Located along Port Macquarie’s Town Green. 6584 1146 7 days, from 11am - late. EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

greater port macquarie focus.

Executive Chef Adam Tait.

The friendly staff.

9 McInherney Close, Port Macquarie 6584 0841 Wednesday - Saturday, dinner from 6pm. Wednesday - Sunday, lunch from 12pm.

Owner Andrea & Head Chef Sam.

focuseditorial.

louperri.

from The Stunned Mullet

SURFEIT ( S I R- F E T ) - A N I N T E M P E R AT E O R I M M O D E R AT E I N D U L G E N C E I N S O M E T H I N G ( A S F O O D O R D R I N K ) - W E B S T E R D I C T I O N A R Y.

he happening upon of this word And with this in mind, surely it is OK to let (not regularly in my vocabulary) ourselves go for it a bit when we are fortunate resulted from the mis-translation to find ourselves in the coveted position of of a request from the almost three being able to feast decadently on food and year old (still haven’t worked out wine. what she was on about) - a word that got me I won’t lie, but certainly from the pondering on the propensity for excess in the perspective of the restaurateur we don’t mind realm of food and drink. at all when you do. But our glee stems from And that temptation certainly looms large not just the financial gains to be had, but for some, or even most of us, on occasion. from the pure no-holds-barred enjoyment A touch of hedonism is well and truly on of the dining experience. Without the usual the cards when a celebration is in full swing constraints of finances, time management, we have all thrown caution to the wind in the health etc - the role of host in a restaurant name of a good party, knowing full well that sense really comes into its own. It is possible tomorrow may bring a twinge (or barrage) to provide true hospitality - in fact, to actually of regret in the form of a sore head, take the customer on a journey of delights, tummy ache - or worse. and whilst providing the experience Human beings have for them, to live vicariously exhibited this trait through them. since ancient times. It can actually be an In this day and The Greeks and incredibly rewarding age there are a the Romans had interaction - an titude of things ul m it down pat back opportunity for us ence that seem to influ , then - (probably ts to showcase the le al w t in restra to s, BT could give us a run R full possibilities of a , es lin st wai s. ” for our money). culinary journey, test name the obviou Within your our knowledge of the average modern cobwebbed gems from day restaurant it is deep in the rear of the something we still do cellar. And an opportunity for witness and cater to on human beings to truly kick back occasion - lunches that turn into and relax in a social setting - without dinners - that turn into dance floor the cares and worries that impinge on our extravaganzas, but for the most part serenity. we leave it to the Greeks and Romans, and This is where the true dining adventures reminisce (if we are old enough) about the happen and a mere meal becomes a legend! ‘80s. Such Bacchanalian feasts are definitely not In this day and age there are a multitude an everyday occurrence. And don’t get me of things that seem to influence restraint wrong - it is very much possible to experience wallets, waistlines, RBTs, to name the obvious. true dining delight on a much more minimalist Whilst "everything in moderation" is a scale. And the bonus is you get to wake up sensible philosophy to approaching the myriad the next morning with a clear head too! of choices we face in life, I believe, it seems But I will conclude that next time you are incredibly sensible to avoid extremism in any choosing between an entrée or dessert, or area yet still embrace the many possibilities a bottle or a glass - it is worth repeating this there are ... But then, there is another side mantra: "life is too short!" to the coin, an equally sensible and obvious Happy dining! And, there’s always philosophy, that - "life is too short!" tomorrow ...

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greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

MELINDA PAVEY

S H E ’ S A M U M . A N D , L I K E M A N Y, A M U M W I T H A N ‘ O U T S I D E T H E H O M E ’ J O B T O O . S U S I E L U N C H E S W I T H A N D R E W S T O N E R ’ S S U C C E S S O R , O U R N E W M P I N T H E S TAT E E L E C T O R AT E O F O X L E Y.

’m lifting a fresh-poured chardonnay to my lips when a fly, driven by gusty winds, sweeps in the restaurant window and drops into my glass. Damn! I move to discard the wine ... but my lunch guest intervenes, deftly fishing out the insect with a spoon. Does she think I’m going to drink it now? No: she swaps her untouched glass with mine and calmly swallows my original wine, sans fly, without batting an eye. It’s a Mummy sort of thing to do, I muse, like “Here, let me kiss it better”. Melinda Pavey is indeed a mum, with husband Warren, of Jack, 16, and Emily, 12. She’s the new Member for Oxley, elected to succeed the retiring long-term National Party leader. MPs need a strong pastoral inclination to service the wildly varying needs of some 70,000 constituents, so The Fly Incident augurs well. It’s evidence of chutzpah, I reckon: a no-nonsense, roll-up-yoursleeves, let’s-get-on-with-it attitude. (It’s nowhere near as outre as drinking the dioxin 245T, an Agent Orange component, as I recall another Nat once did, in an attempt to destroy its reputation as a carcinogen). Other attributes MPs need include physical endurance to cover the vast swathes of territory making up rural electorates: Oxley’s a meandering grab-basket running from just below Coffs Harbour around Urunga and Bellingen, up in the hills to Dorrigo, down the Nambucca coast, back inland to Kempsey,

down to Wauchope and further south to Comboyne and Elands. At just turned 46, Pavey’s close to the average age of her constituency (yet with a remarkable 26 years of political experience behind her: she first began work in Macquarie Street, in the Parliament, in 1988). Contemporaries come to mind: Premier Mike Baird, federal Liberal minister Scott Morrison, Qld Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk - and J Lo, Cate Blanchett, Matthew McConaughey. That is, it’s an age when they’re at the top of their game, with a track record of achievement, proven ability to deliver the goods, yet still with stamina and a zest for fresh horizons. Normally, though, we’d say let’s wait and see. But Pavey has much more experience than many MPs. For 12 years, from age 33, the Hon Melinda Pavey was a Member of the Legislative Council, for two years Shadow Minister for Emergency Services and recently Parliamentary Secretary for Regional & Rural Health. She was just 20 when she joined the parliamentary staff of Coffs MP Matt Singleton, a minister in the Greiner Coalition Cabinet, and later worked with other Nats including Deputy Premier Wal Murray. Moreover she’s fit, a keen triathlete; she and son Jack trekked Kokoda. “My [paternal] grandfather and Jack’s grandfather, Warren’s father, both served in New Guinea in World War II,” Pavey says proudly. “So we did it [together]! It was a 10day challenge. I lost 5 kg.” The family are keen surfers too, Warren recognised two years back

as North Coast Lifesaver of the Year. The couple work in tandem and seem an ideal can-do team. Recently they bought a new home at Urunga, moved house, got chickens for the chook pen, and saw both kids off to a new school year amid all the 24/7 demands of campaigning to win Oxley. “I grew up on a dairy farm in country Victoria. Mum and Dad were sharefarmers, worked hard; Mum worked nightshift as a nurse at the hospital,” Pavey recalls. A holiday at Grassy Head Caravan Park induced her family to make a seachange to Coffs, she just entering her teenage years. Post-HSC and a cadetship as a local radio reporter, she moved to Sydney broadcast journalism and was soon picked up for her local MP’s staff. In ensuing years, between various jobs as an adviser with the Parliamentary Nats, she travelled solo overseas and later, in 1995, with Warren, to the 80th Anzac anniversary at Gallipoli. After their marriage Pavey surrendered work in Macquarie Street (but remained immersed in ongoing Nats’ campaigns); the pair opened a 60-seat restaurant, Foreshore Cafe, on the Coffs jetty strip. Six years later they’d not long sold it as a successful concern when party heavyweights picked her for an Upper House vacancy. Jack was 3 and Pavey “nine months pregnant” with Emily. Now her new Lower House role allows her to zero in on her mid-north coast homeland; her background sees her hit the ground running.

Running indeed: when we meet she’s come from a day in Parliament, carting kids to a birthday party, attending Wauchope’s railway centenary celebrations and headed to Kempsey Show, with Macksville to follow, then to her Kempsey office. An MP covering an electorate of 10,000sq.km must be capable of coping comfortably with an unrelenting schedule. There’s collegiate support from other Nats including fed David Gillespie and State Minister Leslie Williams. In her 2011 inaugural speech Williams recognised Pavey as “the catalyst for my entry into politics”. Pavey’s own inaugural speech in the Legislative Assembly is coming up this first sitting week of May. It’ll detail a torrent of ideas, keenly articulated over lunch, for farming, primary produce, manufacturing, timber, tourism, engagement in our “stunning” outdoors, local food culture. She’s enthusiastic about big and small business, niche shops and markets in the small communities, the environment ... the new/ not-so-new MP comes across as inspiring, an energetic motivator whose dynamism will surely be welcomed. “We have to reward innovation and hard work, to create jobs and opportunities for the next generation,” she insists. Now it’s home for Mother’s Day weekend. Emily’s chicken “business” will soon produce its first eggs. Em will earn some pocket money from Mum and the local church might expect regular donations of fresh eggs for its food drives.

greater port macquarie focus. 27

focusinterview. THE BIG BAND BLAST WILL BRING A WHOLE WEEKEND OF FREE MUSIC TO PORT MACQUARIE ON 29 TO 31 MAY. MORE THAN 600 MUSICIANS FROM 32 BIG BANDS WILL BELT OUT SPICY LATIN TUNES AND SOULFUL JAZZ SOUNDS ACROSS FOUR STAGES.

NIELS ROSENDAHL

ith free music in town, a Saturday night concert at Panthers, workshops for participants, and culminating in a New Orleans style riverside parade, the three day celebration is the largest big band festival of its kind. So put on your dancing shoes, grab a picnic rug and enjoy the big and brassy sounds performed by an exciting line-up of musicians of all ages and stages from right across Australia. One of the talented musicians to take to the stage will be Niels Rosendahl, a celebrated saxophonist who has recently returned from the United States. Niels, you’ve just come back to Australia after studying, teaching and playing music at the University of North Texas College of Music. What were the highlights of your time in the US? Undoubtedly, the greatest part of my time in the US was the people there - all of my amazing friends, teachers, colleagues, peers and students. Following that, playing in the UNT One O’Clock Lab Band® and playing with some of my heroes (incl. Chuck Findley, Denis DiBlaslio, Wayne Bergeron, Frank Greene, Stockton Helbing, Eddie Henderson and Walt Weiskopf) who were guest artists, will always remain an unparalleled experience that I’ll never forget. Road tripping with my friends and experiencing the vast American cultural spectrum was awesome. The Basically Basie Big Band nights at Abbey Underground (where the UNT jazz community gets together socially twice a month and performs Count Basie music) was my favourite regular gathering in Denton. Also, Buffalo wings and fried pickles - I

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I I LOV E IT A LL . G IN AY LOV E PL IN BI G BA N D S, TR E, M U SI CA L TH EA SI C U M CO M M ERCI A L S, N IO H O R N SE CT P’ JA ZZ ‘S M A LL G RO U ...” S CO M BO

“

like Buffalo wings and friend pickles. Where else in the world has music taken you? Aside from Australia and the USA, I’ve studied and/or performed in Scotland, England, Ireland, Italy, France, Spain, Scandinavia and SE Asia. You also compose your own music, and released an album titled Impossibly Simple. Where do you draw your inspiration? Oftentimes, it comes from hearing a composition that I really like, then trying to write my own version of that piece, without copying it. Other times, it comes from exploring musical shapes and motifs. You’ve been involved with a broad range of performances including jazz festivals, jazz orchestras, in symphony orchestras and musical theatre. You’ve also played on television, with Jessica Mauboy and other celebrities, and in commercial covers bands. What are your favourite gigs to play? As long as it’s with good musicians, I love it all. I love playing in big bands, musical theatre, commercial music horn sections, “small group” jazz combos ... I really love the musical architecture of large ensemble compositions, backing a great singer in a horn section, being a part of an amazing show, and the interactive, improvisatory and “riskier” nature of playing in a jazz combo. How old were you when you first picked up a saxophone? It was just before my twelfth birthday. Do you play any other instruments? Flute, clarinet, and some piano. What’s playing on your iPod right now?

The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra The Way: The Music Of Slide Hampton. Now that you’re back in Australia, what’s coming up next for you? John Morrison has been super supportive of me since we met last year, so I’m looking forward to working for him, both in the upcoming 2015 Big Band Blast, and other projects. I’ve just accepted some teaching work with the Australian Institute of Music. Also, Daryl McKenzie (a prominent musician, musical director, band leader and educator in Melbourne, who is also a UNT alum) has been really supportive of my career. Since returning, I’ve done some performances with the Daryl McKenzie Jazz Orchestra, and he’s been really awesome in hiring me for other professional engagements and introducing me to his contacts. So, I’m very excited about an ongoing professional relationship with Daryl. Tim Oram (Sydney Jazz Orchestra director) and David Theak (Jazzgroove Mothership Orchestra director) have both been very supportive of me in Sydney (I’ve done performances with their respective ensembles, since returning), so I’m hoping to maintain ongoing professional relationships with them. I’ll be doing some business development with the Sydney-based media agency Signacion. Also, a new album is WELL overdue, so I’m hoping to begin working on that before the end of the year. Thanks Niels. Big Band Blast 29 to 31 May programme details, a venue map and tickets available at www.bigbandblast.com.au

camp rock the musical Players’ next production is the hot musical Camp Rock, which opens on May 8 and runs until May 31. Performances are each Friday and Saturday night at 8pm and Sunday afternoon at 2pm. Camp Rock will feature a huge local cast of some of the finest young singers and dancers under the direction of Hamish Keddie and is based on the hit Disney Channel movie. Bookings are now open at the Glasshouse box office, or online at playerstheatre.org where you can read more about the Players Theatre. Camp Rock takes us all back to the Summer Camp; however, there’s a flash new Camp Star across the lake which threatens Camp Rock’s very existence. To keep the doors open, Mitchie steps up, rallies her fellow camp rockers and gets them into top shape for the ultimate showdown. The final Jam will fire up the Players Theatre stage with over a dozen great songs, including This is Me, Can’t Back Down, It’s On and We Rock. After Camp Rock clears the stage, Players makes way for the wonderful comedy The Government Inspector. Opening on July 10, the play will be Directed by Lance Thompson, who has been responsible for a series of entertaining and thought provoking productions at Players Theatre. This comedy will be no exception, and Lance has assembled a fine cast to deliver a great show. Opening on September 25, it’s the fabulous musical Anything Goes, directed by Tim Ronan. This show is a classic, and Cole Porter’s music and witty dialogue will have you humming the tunes long after the curtain has come down. We will end the 2015 season with the production of the play Quartet, which runs from November 13 to 29. You’ve seen the film, now enjoy the stage play. And don’t forget Players Fancy Dress Hire has a huge range of costumes available for all ages and occasions. The Ttheatre also welcomes new members, so if you would like to learn more about volunteering in one of the many roles, such as backstage, front of house or in the technical side then get in touch via our website.

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2 0 1 5 S L I C E O F H AV E N IN 2015, SLICE OF HAVEN CELEBRATES THE DIVERSITY OF THE CAMDEN HAVEN. THE CAMDEN HAVEN’S OWN FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL TAKES PRIDE IN SHARING THIS REGION’S GOURMET FOOD BOWL WITH EVERYONE. “This year’s theme, ‘Food for Thought: Celebrating Cultural Diversity’ really celebrates the spice of life we enjoy,” said one of the festival’s coordinators, Kerry McFadyen. The food and wine festival will be held on Sunday, May 24, 10am - 4pm on the Camden Haven River foreshore, Seymour Street, Laurieton. As well as gourmet offerings from some of the region’s most renowned cooks, chefs and suppliers, there will also be special entertainment performances. This year the African Children's Choir will perform at the festival. The choir will be performing in several cities across the country, but the Camden Haven is one of the only nonmetro locations. Last year the choir was hosted by St Joseph's Primary School, Laurieton.

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They joined with local children to sing around the Camden Haven and held sell-out performance workshops for young and old. They're back in 2015, and Slice of Haven will kick off their time in the Camden Haven. From a feasting perspective, the Slice of Haven organisers have been able to secure Tin Hta Nu, who creates home-grown and homemade Asian dishes, a much sought-after attraction. In the past Tin worked at Slice and at the weekly Kendall Vege Bazaars to raise funds for the Kendall Kadaw Friendship Project, to build a high school in her home country of Burma. That dream has been realised, along with building amenities for the students and raising funds to support scholarships for university students. In 2015, Tin’s stall will raise funds for the Mid North Coast Refugee Support Group. So make sure you try some of her curry, samosas, spring

EN SL IC E O F H AV IT O RS IS V E V W IL L GI RY NA LI CU F A TA ST E O IT H FO O D EXCE LL EN CE W ES TO A N D BE V ER AG ES – DO N’ T ST SU IT A LL TA UP A CK PI FO RG ET TO A LL , ST CH EA AT FLYE R H W ER E TO SO YO U KN OW R M O RE !” FI N D TH EM FO

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rolls, jams and chutneys - all made by Tin using produce from her bountiful garden at Kendall. Slice of Haven will give visitors a taste of culinary excellence with food and beverages to suit all tastes - don’t forget to pick up a flyer at each stall, so you know where to find them for more! But the festival is not just about delighting your palate. Stallholders will get creative and dress up their stall to create the fun and vibrant atmosphere this festival is known for.

Local bands, spectacular stilt walkers and dance will be a feast for your eyes and ears too. For the kids there will be lots to eat, see and do. Volunteers from Hastings Valley Fine Arts will complete a painting live at the festival and raffle through the day. The team will also have a free painting workshop for kids. Of course the popular Slice of Beach will delight the youngsters - for free - and there are rides and games to enjoy. For more information, visit sliceofhaven.com.au.

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KEN LITTLE’S The month of May heralds the new season - CITRUS. Sweet IMPERIAL mandarins and NAVEL oranges are now available. All “Aussie” grown from South Queensland. The flavour of the mandarins was nice and sweet right from the first lot to arrive. Usually they are a bit tangy in the beginning of the season. The oranges also are quite sweet. We all look forward to the arrival of the navel oranges and mandarins, don’t we? There are still a few plums in the shop, but really, the stone fruit season has finished. So, let’s enjoy what’s new in season now. Good quality Pink Lady apples are now readily available. News in the vegetable patch! Good local beans and fancy lettuce are still available. Local zucchini and Lebanese cucumber are now in plentiful supply and are of very good quality. With winter approaching, all the lovely root vegetables will start to arrive. Sweet potato, parsnips, Swedes and turnips, just the tastes you will need for the stews and soups and casseroles. Great news once again! Our very own Matt and Tammy Davis from Red Hill have won first prize with their magnificent corn and also their beans at this year’s Royal Easter Show. Congratulations, Matt and Tammy, for once again producing not just one, but two excellent products. Please come in and say hello soon. Ken.

INDIAN SPECIALITIES Maharaja Tandoori-Indian Restaurant is an iconic local Indian restaurant, having been established in Port Macquarie since 1999 and Laurieton since 2008. Maharaja offers the best quality Indian cuisine on the coast, with authentic taste and flavour. Maharaja Lunch Bar is open from 11am to 2pm Monday to Saturday at the Port Macquarie and Laurieton locations. Perfect for a quick break from work or a long lunch with friends; dine in and takeaway options are available. Lunch Specials starting at only $5.50 for a small curry and rice, and Combo Meals including your choice of a medium curry with rice, 1 x naan and a can of soft drink for $15.90. Open for dinner 7 nights. Come and try some of our traditional Indian specialities at the annual food festival Slice of Haven on Sunday 26th May!

J O L LY N O S E TAW N Y Winter is coming and now is the perfect time to enjoy the Long Point Vineyard Jolly Nose Tawny. Named after the high rocky outcrop just south of our vineyard, this rich tawny is luscious and complex with flavours of raisin and toffee. We blend fourteen-year-old premium tawny with bonded brandy spirit and age in new oak barrels to create an extremely smooth and warming experience. Long Point Jolly Nose Tawny is recommended to finish off that special evening or as an indulgent nightcap. As always, our friendly cellar door staff are eager to take you on a tasting journey, with fine wines, specialty liqueurs and boutique beers. We look forward to welcoming you to our beautiful vineyard. Come and visit our new website and online shop at www.longpointvineyard.com.au

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AFTER MOVING TO THE CAMDEN HAVEN REGION IN 2003, TIN HTA NU HAS MADE HER MARK IN OUR REGION WITH HER BEAUTIFUL BURMESE CUISINE, GENEROSITY, TALENT AND EAGERNESS TO HELP THE COMMUNITY… THIS IS HER STORY. ell us about your relationship with Australia; how did you end up living in our beautiful country and particularly the Camden Haven? I came to study in 1982 at UNE Armidale, went back to Burma, but became involved with the democracy uprising in 1988. I had to leave in a hurry to avoid persecution by the military junta with possible gaol and torture. Before departure, I applied with the Australian embassy for protection as a political refugee. I worked in Bangkok as an academic while waiting for acceptance into Australia; I was accepted in 1990 and applied for an academic position at UNE, which was successful. I met my husband, Ian Oxenford, while working there. We left UNE in 1998, then worked in Vietnam as international consultants ‘til 2002. We then settled in the Camden Haven, developing our farm property. How long have you lived in the Camden Haven area? We have lived here since 2003. You’re involved in some special projects throughout the region which generally revolve around food, including a community café and garden. What is the concept behind the programmes? To research and explore plant varieties suitable for the local climate and conditions and to promote these new foods around the community. My husband, Ian, initiated a community supported agriculture project which grew into the Kendall vege bazaar, community garden and 34

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community café (meeting place café). Also, I would to worked on overseas? transfer my knowledge of Asian and Middle Eastern My husband and I have built a high school in central cooking to the community, so I taught at Camden Haven, Burma catering for 200 students. With the help of local Port Macquarie and Wauchope adult education colleges. citizens, this has expanded to include a tertiary scholarship You’ve also started a refugee programme; tell us programme and already we have a doctor, dentist and about that. optometrist who have graduated and several more This started with a Gleny Rae studying as a result of this programme. We now performance at a Wauchope have an orphanage project in Rangoon, Arts Council concert. Gleny where we have constructed a toilet block D, N A was in the SBS series Back and more accomodation for orphans SB U H Y M DA to Where You Come From, from Cyclone Nargis in 2007. IA N, IN IT IATE PP O RT ED SU Y IT showing her support for We supported a school in northern N U M M CO PROJ EC T the refugees. She donated Vietnam with equipment and AG RI CU LT U RE IN TO TH E most of the proceedings furniture while working there. W H IC H GR EW E BA ZA A R, KE N DA LL V EG of her concert to start our Our latest project is the support of RD EN CO M M U N IT Y GA refugee group with Krissa slum and street children in Rangoon. IT Y CA FÉ A N D CO M M U N Wilkinson, Wauchope Arts Any fi nal words you’d like to share ” ). FÉ E CA (M EE TI NG PL AC Council Coordinator. This with our readers? refugee group now has over I would also like to say I owe my life to 90 members and supporters. The Australia, so I am committed to the work aims are: to host refugees and asylum I have been doing as an appreciation for the seekers from other parts of Australia; to adopted homeland. counteract the negative perceptions of refugees Also, these contributions cannot be feasible without promoted by some parts of the media; to my friends in our region, as well as organisations such as hopefully sponsor suitable asylum seekers Kendall Community Op Shop, Kendall CWA, Laurieton to permanently settle in our region and help them with United Servicemen’s Club, ThE Meeting Place Café and housing, transport, employment and social needs. Community Garden Volunteers, Rotary Club of Laurieton Your community and charity work is not limited to and Kendall Men’s Shed members. just Australia; what are some of the projects you’ve Thanks Tin.

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FARM GATE TOUR – JUNE 6, 7 AND 8 - INTERVIEW WITH DAINTRY GERRAND – LANDCARE SUPPORT OFFICER, HASTINGS LANDCARE INC.

i Daintry. Explain the concept of the Farm Gate Tour ... how long has this event been running, and what are its aims? This year will be our third Farm Gate Tour. We started in 2012 and were excited by the response, which sparked a real interest from the community. We had five times the number of participants join the second tour in 2013. The Farm Gate Tour supports local farmers and farm gate enterprises. It provides a great opportunity to “meet the farmer” and learn where to get “local” food. Participating farmers share their knowledge and showcase sustainable farming and land management. You can learn great things about local initiatives which are rejuvenating and restoring our soils and landscapes. Whether you’re interested as a “consumer” or are a “producer” yourself, you will enjoy the tour as our farmers share knowledge and their passions with the farm visitors. There will be a broad range of farming and food production showcased across the 12 properties - if you are interested in native bees, or growing beef or pork or learning about milk (both sheep and cow) production, oyster growing, garlic and essential oils or conserving biodiversity on the farm, this tour has something for you. The self-guided tour will take you across the breadth of the coastal landscape from the hinterland and upper catchments through to the estuary. This is an important “connection” and Landcare message, as what happens in the upper catchment affects the water quality in the estuary. Biodiversity and the quality of our food is greatly enhanced by good quality water and healthy river corridors. The properties featured are not usually open to the public - so this is a great opportunity to 36

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connect with local food producers. How does this year’s tour differ from previous year’s events? The new additions to the tour this year are an “urban farm” in Wauchope, sheep cheese in production, blueberries on Comboyne and a local oyster farm. The Urban farm in Wauchope will inspire you as to what can be done to live sustainably right in the middle of the Wauchope township; the property has an organic, edible garden with chooks, established on permaculture principles. Organic waste is composted. From the front yard, side garden, and back yard, a surprising array of fruit and vegetables is produced … also, it is the ultimate recycled house. We have three dairies - organic, A2 and sheep milk … learn about the production behind the labels. There will be an opportunity to learn about oyster growing in the Hastings River estuary and how to get the freshest produce. For 2015, we are celebrating the “International Year of Soils”, with informative sessions on the biology of soils as the foundation to our food supply. What are the dates the tour will run this year? The June Long Weekend - 6th, 7th and 8th - the farms are open at set times over these days, and all farm details and maps and opening schedules are in the Guide Book. What properties/producers are involved this year? Thirteen properties - covering poultry, dairy, garlic and essential oils, beef, pork, eggs, native bush-foods, sheep cheese, oysters, blueberries, avocadoes, macadamias and biodiversity conservation will be featured on the self-drive programme. Property information, opening schedules and travel times are detailed in the

Guide Books, which go on sale on 18th May. to make a connection with the farmers, and their Who are the organisers/volunteers behind details are all included in the Guide Book. the Farm Gate Tour? Where can people interested in attending It is an initiative of Hastings Landcare - a buy tickets/booklets etc, and how much do catchment based community Landcare they cost? organisation based in Wauchope. We have been Guide Books will be available from 18th May. in operation since 1997 supporting landholders They can be purchased online at http://www. and communities throughout the greater Hastings hastingslandcare.org.au/ where you can pay catchment, Camden Haven and Stewarts online and download your own booklet. River landscapes in the south, as SELECTED OUTLETS well as the Wilson River and • Hastings Landcare Inc, Rollands Plains areas to 44a Cameron Street the north. We work TH E JU N E LO NG , H 6T Wauchope (Tuesdays – D with landholders and N KE W EE E TH H government to support 8T Thursdays, 9am - 12.30 D N 7T H A PE N AT SE T O RE on-ground works A S RM pm) or by appointment. FA ES E DAYS, for improved land TI M ES OV ER TH • PMQ Tourist S IL DE TA management, and we A N D A LL FA RM G Info Centre at the IN N PE DO A N D M A PS A N network to provide E TH IN Glasshouse in Port RE SC H ED U LE S A up-to-date natural ” K. Macquarie. GU ID E BO O resource management • Ecowild Health Foods, information to our 21B High Street, Wauchope. communities. Where can readers find out How does the event work ... more info? how do each property/business

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involved in the event showcase their produce? Guide Books are available for $30 - this covers individuals, or a family or small group up to four people. Maps, property details and opening times are in the booklet, so that you can plan your own tour over the three days. The schedule over the weekend is very busy, and you will need to pack your own lunch for a picnic if you want to get to as many properties as possible over the three days. Travel times between main town centres and the properties are included in the booklet. Some properties will have produce for sale others will have information regarding where it can be purchased locally. This is an opportunity

FURTHER INFORMATION and ENQUIRIES Contact Hastings Landcare on 6586 4465 or 0427 864 465 (Tuesdays - Thursdays, 9am - 12.30 pm) or by email: hastingslandcare@midcoast.com. au And follow us on Facebook https://www. facebook.com/HastingsFarmGateTour Final say … Hastings Landcare Inc feels very privileged to have the support of such a great group of farmers for this event. The tour will take place, rain, hail or shine, but extreme wet weather may mean cancellation: check the website and Facebook for updates. Thanks Daintry. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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

Below. Ed Godschalk & Justeen Single at the Marlowe wedding celebration

Below. Gina Bradley, a Stewardess, and Lauren Macey as a Senorita

Below. Steve, Jarad, and Jason at the Marlowe wedding celebration

(All wedding pics are courtesy of Nic Donohue)

Above. Danni Probst as a scientist and Laszlo Groh as a Navy Seal at Scott’s 40th

photo credit Nic Donohue

Left. Peta and Robert Marlowe and daughter Jassie

S U C H A H U G E M O N T H ! R I D I C U L O U S , I N FAC T … S O L A R G E , I A M C O N S I D E R I N G P U T T I N G M Y S E L F I N T O F O R C E D R E T I R E M E N T … T O O M U C H F U N F O R O N E M O N T H , S E R I O U S LY !

here to start …. perhaps with true love and a beautiful waterfront wedding in mid April for one of my favourite Englishmen, Mr Rob Marlowe and the lovely Miss Peta Szagmeister. It all started with a stunning autumn day’s ceremony on Oxley Beach, live acoustic guitar by Dave Calandra, sand, sun, family and special friends from across the globe. The gorgeous and extended Marlowe family flew in from all over Australia and the UK, headed up by the charismatic Roger Marlowe and lovely wife, Susan, Rob’s stunning eldest sister, Georgia and hubby, Lachie and younger sister, Claudia and the lovely Charlotte. The bride wore a stunning full length lace gown with a plunging back and gorgeous train, with her beautiful sister, Monique Wardle, in an off the shoulder navy gown with Peta’s beautiful daughter, Jassie, and flowers girls Harriet and Saffron in white vintage lace and navy sashes. Page boy Finn was not to be shown up, looking quite the little gent in a smart suit and vest. The bride was given away by father Ted, with mum Yvonne on hand to celebrate. Celebrant Margot Smith did a fabulous job with the waterfront ceremony. Bubbles and beers on the beach for the first toast was followed by a fabulous rooftop reception at the Mercure with 80 family and friends. DJ Tim Helmy had the crowd into the groove early on, with the bride and groom busting a few moves to

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Uptown Funk setting quite a high bar for the party mood for the evening. Guests enjoyed canapés, fancy dress hats, wigs and glasses as they got busy on the dance floor. Guests, including Loren and Corey Enfield, Matt and Rica Lindeman, Lauren Laing, Justeen Single and Ed Godschalk, Suzie and Jarad Mea, Janet, Helen and Jimbo Holder, Andrew and Ginny Turner, all partied the night away, with my hubby, Steve, as MC. The gorgeous pair and the party antics we captured by the talented Nic Donohue, a good friend and official photographer backed up by photographer Brett Rutwoski. What a treat to celebrate with such a fabulous crowd, who partied well into the night across the town. Congrats to Rob and Peta, who are honeymooning in Samoa and will make their home with Jassie in Port Macquarie. Much love and happiness to you always. x P.S. If anyone finds an unusually large pair of hot pink sunglasses laying in tatters somewhere around the town, it had absolutely nothing to do with me ... We spent a delightful evening of the deck of Sails Resort dining with the extended UK clan and Aussie friends to celebrate the 70th birthday of patriarch Roger Marlowe. Twenty five guests enjoyed cheese and antipasto on arrival followed by scrumptuous seafood and steaks, followed by decadent sweet treats to finish. A lovely night and fitting prequel to the nuptials later that week. Happy birthday, Roger! Epic is probably the best word to describe

tales from the 40th birthday of local lad Scott Lawrence of Lawrence Built, who celebrated with 100 friends and family with a fancy dress “S” party at the new home in Sherwood. The birthday boy AKA Snoop Dog and stunning wife Vanessa AKA Mrs Scissorhands threw a massive shindig to bring in the naughty forties. Guests, including Matt Jorgenson as a shark, Amanda Perrin-Sumner as a beautiful black swan, Danni Probst as a sexy scientist, Laszlo Groh as a Navy Seal and Danny Tate as a sailor, Kate Lineham as a stunning showgirl in aqua sequins and feathers, with Grant and Dianne Richmond channelling their inner comic hero as Superman and Superwoman. Ollie Brooks was on the decks with a photo booth from Pose it - a huge night with canapés and party tunes on tap. Happy birthday, Scott! April really is a crazy month for birthdays, with a relaxed lunch spent at Little Fish Café on an absolutely stunning afternoon in April for hubby Steve’s b’day - guests, including Louise, Jay and Perissa Beaumont, Meredy, Steve and Shannah Lacey, Gemma and Jason Clifton all enjoyed a very chillaxed lunch in the sun and a few drops of vino and a little bubbles or two. So good to see former locals and besties Christie Lee Jackson and Jamie Styles on their recent trip home from Cairns - catching up with our annual ANZAC Day post dawn service breakfast on the deck followed by a little jaunt in the boat the next day with the Cliffos and lunch at Salty’s restaurant on the water. So lucky

and thankful to live in this amazing country, with natural beauty, freedom, friends and family around us. Afraid of heights? After a few false starts due to seriously rotten weather, 19 brave and crazy locals jumped/abseiled from the roof of Rydges on a perfectly sunny Friday afternoon, under the careful guidance of Sparta Solutions’ Sam Dalton and lovely wife Mel and partner in crime Matt. Sue Cannon led the pack, followed by Ivana Agapiou, a hairy behemoth formerly known as the Mayor Peter Besseling also got in on the action, Kaylun and Lee Dixon, “Super” Steve Cherry, Sandy MCColl of NSW Rural Clinical School and last minute additions Rydges’ Exec Chef Adam Tait and Westpac Rescue Helicopters’ Chad Hadfield, to name but a few who made the drop. The kooky crew solo abseiled nine floors to the pool deck for the jump zone party, with Seano doing a fab job on MC duties, Pete and the team from Go Cross Media on film, Nigel of Head AV capturing all the jump-slash-fall action and a few pot plant and balcony mishaps! Congrats to the brave and civic locals who raised over $25,000 for charity and to Kylie Morris of Westpac Rescue Helicopters, who pulled it all off. Mother’s Day is next on the radar, with plenty of love showered on the ladies we love most. Looking forward to a total chillax and some serious down time. Special requests already lodged for sleep-ins, sunshine, seafood and bubbles. ‘til next month! Kate.

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WHAT’S ON G LASS HOUS E IRONMAN AUSTRALIA

30 AP RI L - 4 MAY

Ironman Australia Celebrating 30 years, sshouse will be based at the Gla week of with an action-packed race activities.

CARL BARRON KNITTING

FUTURE

KNITTING THE FUTURE IS A PROJECT DEVISED BY WAUCHOPE COMMUNITY ARTS AND THE MID NORTH COAST REFUGEE SUPPORT GROUP, WHICH WILL HELP TO PROVIDE WARM, KNITTED ITEMS FOR THOSE CURRENTLY SUFFERING BLEAK CONDITIONS IN REFUGEE CAMPS IN SYRIA. KRISSA WILKINSON TELLS US MORE …

i Krissa. Please explain what’s involved with “Knitting the Future”. How did the idea for this project develop - what was the inspiration? The initial inspiration came because this year is the Centenary of Grace Cossington Smith’s iconic painting The Sock Knitter (pictured above left) that captured the artist’s sister, Madge, knitting for the troops in World War I. As the country celebrates the ANZAC centenary, it is so important to acknowledge the impact of the war on people back in Australia. It is also very poignant to consider that The Sock Knitter represents a generation of women whose husbands, brothers and sons never returned. In contrast to the ANZAC stories of masculine heroism, Cossington Smith gave us a window in to the quiet efforts of the women at home. So, Knitting the Future began as a project to celebrate the work of women artists of that time and the contributions of women. In 1915 women knitted out of loyalty to the empire and to support soldiers at the front. In 2015 it seemed appropriate that we would knit for some of those displaced by war, who are living in appalling conditions in refugee camps. I believe there are two components of the project, involving both knitted items and artworks? Knitting the Future has two creative aspects, knitting and portrait painting. We are currently networking with knitters and craft groups across the region, who are making socks, scarves, shawls, beanies and blankets. It is both an homage to women artists of Cossington Smith’s era and a humanitarian endeavour, and the response has been won-

DRINKING WITH A FORK 9, 10, 12, 14, 15 & 16 MAY, 8P M

derful, including generous donations of wool. Which local organisations are supporting/ organising this project? Two community organisations are involved: the Mid North Coast Refugee Support Group, and Wauchope Community Arts. Each share a commitment to social justice and using the arts to raise awareness, support worthwhile causes and build community connections. When and where will the finished items be placed on display - and what will happen to the items once the exhibition period is over? On June 20, World Refugee Day, we will have a display at Port Macquarie Library, and some local artists will paint portraits of the knitters. Residents are invited to attend the installation and join us for morning tea from 10am or view the work over the following week. We will also have a large framed print of The Sock Knitter on display, and this is a great opportunity to see the painting recognised by arts critics as the first post impressionistic painting to be exhibited in Australia. We are currently planning the shipment and liaising with Rotary, the Red Cross, and Save the Children. Later in the year the knitted items will be sent to a Syrian refugee camp. How can readers donate items or become involved with the project? Readers could knit. We are not asking people to make works of art, but functional, practical attire that will keep refugees warm. Another option is to make a donation towards the cost of shipping at the gathering on World Refugee Day. For more information on the project, go to www.wauchopearts.org.au or email mncrefsup@gmail.com Thanks Krissa. Interview by Jo Atkins.

Tickets still available!

OPERATION ART

MAY 15 - 28 JU NE

works by school An exhibition of 50 art works knowing that students who their art by sick children they will be appreciated and their families. in Westmead hospital Gabrielle Hong, The Emus

Selfie, Strathfield Girls High

School (detail).

JOHN WILLIAMSON HONEST PEOPLE TH UR SDAY 28 MAY, 8P M

Australian icon. John Williamson is an able as the His voice is as recognis Southern Cross.

GLASSH OUSE ME MB ER TO DAY! FO R DIS CO UNT TIC KETS BE CO ME A s | The Australian of the Mamas and Papa sic Mu : ing am Dre rnia d | Elvis: I’ll In the Theatre: Califo ngs from Brazil & Beyon

02 6581 8888

glasshouse.org.au greater port macquarie focus.

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HASTINGS EQUAL RESPECT AND OPPORTUNITY

A NEW ORGANISATION THAT AIMS TO NOT ONLY PROMOTE EQUALITY AND RESPECT, REGARDLESS OF IDENTITY, PREFERENCES, AND ABILITIES, BUT ALSO TO RAISE FUNDS, GIVE BACK TO COMMUNITY GROUPS AND HAVE LOADS OF FUN IN THE PROCESS! MEET THE CREW BEHIND HERO, WHO PLAN TO CELEBRATE THEIR LAUNCH WITH A STUNNING PARTY AT RYDGES ON MAY 9 ...

hat is HERO, and how did its establishment come about? Jacob: The idea of doing something different, to create something that gave back to the community regardless of your identity, was something Nick and I had spoken about. Also, Nick and Michael had identified a small void within the community that we all thought needed some love. I was involved in other areas of community for the LGBTIQ and was looking for something more inclusive, because times have changed … Something fun, while still playing an active part of recognising, giving back and helping the local community groups network. Nick introduced me to Michael at another event I was working on, and the three of us had a chat and we collaborated and all worked really well together, so it grew from there. Michael: Our main goal for when we first established the organisation was to create something that would help those helping others. We wanted to create events that were fun and inclusive, rather than exclusive. We’re all individuals and we’re all human - why not help each other out and make something fun at the same time! We wanted to do something for everyone. For a long time we tried to think of a name for ourselves that summed up everything that we wanted to be; in the end, the name Hastings Equal Respect and Opportunity was chosen, or HERO for short. Introduce us to the committee ... Who fills the various roles? Nick: We are so lucky to have such a diverse group of people on our committee; we have members not only located here in Port Macquarie, but also in other cities, states and even countries.

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Jacob Merchant is our secretary and public officer, Michael Marchment media and design coordinator, Peta Arpon as treasurer, Gabriel Eagleson is Business Liaison Officer and myself as President. General committee members include Gj Hayward, Hayley Smith, Scott Staples, Sarah Gale and Amber Smith. What are the aims of the organisation? Nick: As our name suggests, we want to create a more accepting and equalised community. We aim to do this by creating events throughout the year that bring the community together to just have fun, whilst also raising funds for other local charities to help them achieve their own goals. We want to celebrate life and also showcase the fact that we are all human. The main focus for our events is to bring the community together in an environment where you're treated equally, no matter what walk of life you come from. What gap/niche do you feel HERO will currently fill in the local community? Jacob: There are so many areas we identify in the Hastings that can benefit from a little opportunity and we hope that by growing our network, raising funds, giving back, promoting respect and helping others, we will encourage the community to develop a more natural respect for each other - regardless of any identity. There are so many secular or minority groups in the Hastings; we hope HERO will identify as all inclusive, non exclusive, and to show that it doesn't matter anymore - it’s 2015, and you have the right to be you, be respected and have fun! HERO will be having its official launch in May. When and where will this take place? Nick: Rydges Port Macquarie have been a massive contributor in making our crazy ideas a reality, so with their support our launch will be held in the Zebu Room located within Rydges Port Macquarie on Saturday 9th May at 7:30pm.

What will happen at the launch - what activities are planned? Nick: The launch will be amazing! The evening will be circus themed, and we have so much planned. There will be some great entertainment; performances by Maverique Events, Local Drag queen Misty Boxx as well as Sydney Drag Queens Havana Banana and Wilhelmina Scott, Ollie Brooke will be there DJ-ing the evening, cocktail on arrival with canapés, as well as amazing giveaways and a few surprises. Michael: We’re also opening our membership rewards programme to everyone and offering a discount on the night. The programme will offer rewards to members for shopping locally, which in turn will benefit local business. A few of those businesses that are supporting the programme are Elysium Beauty Day Spa, Glasshouse flowers, Flirt Adult Store, Peak Coffee, Black Box Pizza, Video Ezy and many more ... Plus, the list is growing. Joining price on the night will be $20, and you will receive a fancy HERO membership card. Post event, memberships will be $25. Moving ahead through 2015 and beyond, what plans do HERO have? Jacob: Between the great committee we have and the brains behind us, we have tried to think outside the box ... it’s going to be an interesting year, put it that way! I know we have some amazing outdoor events planned which may or may not include glitter with some awesome international visitors and performers - but overall something different, exciting and unexpected. Which individuals/organisations locally have come on board to support HERO? Jacob: Hobbis Property and Each have graciously help us with our launch, and we can’t thank them enough for believing in us; and so many other businesses and professional services (too many to name here) have thrown a hand

in! At each event we will be donating a generous portion of any monies made from ticket sales and contributions back to an identified local group so it benefits the area; for the Launch we’ll be donating to The Hope Shop, to help them out with the fantastic work they do! Michael: Each (who also run headspace here in Port Macquarie) have been an amazing support, and what they do for the greater community is fantastic! Each and HERO will be partnering up for a few events in the future to help support the community, especially the youth who really need a hand, so we can let them know that there are people who are willing to support them. Where can readers find out more info about both HERO, and the launch party? Jacob: Our Facebook page has all the info about HERO and the launch party. Further information will be located at our webpage www.ourhero.org.au where you can also join our mailing list, plus online signup to our membership programme which be available shortly after our launch party. Or, we can be contacted via email at hey@ourhero.org.au. Final say ... We’re giving away two tickets to the launch party! One person will win two tickets valued at $70. Enter by signing up to our e-newsletter at www.ourhero.org.au/scoretix Thanks guys. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug! Tickets for the HERO launch are available at Rydges Port Macquarie. When Saturday, May 9th. When 7:30pm sharp. Where Zebu Room (enter from Town Green), Rydges Port Macquarie.

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Memories are

Made of This

CAROL RARATY AND JENNY FRANKS ARE BOTH VOLUNTEER ARTISTS WITH THE CREATIVE CONNECTIONS ART PROGRAMME - A VERY SPECIAL PROGRAMME AIMED AT ASSISTING THOSE WITH ALZHEIMER’S AND THEIR CARERS TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES AND TO ENJOY SOCIAL INTERACTION THROUGH ART.

arol and Jenny explain that programme participants have contributed at least 30 artworks to an exhibition titled Memories are Made of This, which will be hosted by Haven Fine Arts Gallery throughout May … What is the Creative Connections Art Programme? The Creative Connections Art Programme is an opportunity for people living with Alzheimer’s Disease and their carers to participate in free artistic expression in a friendly and supportive environment. The programme was established by Margaret Allen (Hastings Respite Care) and Maureen Cook (Port Macquarie Art Society) in 2006. What’s your role with the programme and how/why did you first become involved? The volunteer artists (Maureen Cook, Marina Dick, Carol Raraty and Jenny Franks) assisting in the programme encourage each client to express themselves individually, while also catering to their individual needs. Carol became involved because a family member was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease, and she wanted to know more about it. As well, she was already a member of the Port Macquarie Art Society. Jenny was an Occupational Therapist working in Aged Care at Port Macquarie Community Health and has always had an interest in art. How do you feel the programme benefit those who have been touched by Alzheimer’s? Those who are affected personally by Alzheimer’s come to the programme often feeling confused and upset and isolated from society. After a morning participating in the programme, they have happy, smiling faces, and the room is full of laughter. Just as importantly, they are thrilled to be able to produce a work of art. In that short period of time they feel good

Jennifer Franks (left) and Carol Raraty (right).

about themselves and what they have achieved. The programme gives the carer respite, or if they attend themselves a chance to relax, express themselves artistically and enjoy others’ company. Also, they feel they are not alone, but supported. How do interested people become involved with the programme? Contact Margaret Allen or Julie Dunn at Hastings Respite Care Dementia Services on 6581 4544. Participants in the programme will be contributing their artwork to an exhibition, Memories are Made of This, which will be hosted by Haven Fine Arts Gallery. What are the dates of the exhibition? Exhibition dates are 17th - 31st May 2015. Gallery opening hours are Thursday to Sunday 10am to 4pm. Roughly how many/what types of artworks do you expect will be on display? At least 30 artworks will be displayed. The artworks cover all media, including watercolour, acrylic, texture (mixed media) and range from traditional to abstract. What organisations/businesses/individuals would you like to acknowledge for their support? Port Macquarie Art Society, Hastings Respite Care Dementia Services, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW Port Macquarie, Haven Fine Arts Gallery, Derivan Art Supplies, Leonie Williams, Carla Little More information? For Alzheimer’s information, contact Kaylene Parker at Alzheimer’s Australia NSW Port Macquarie on 6584 7444. For Hastings Respite Care Dementia Services information, contact Margaret Allen or Julie Dunn on 6581 4544. For Haven Fine Arts Gallery and of Memories are Made This exhibition information, contact Diane Solomon Westerhuis on 0400 602 321. Thanks Carol and Jenny. Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus.

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P H O T O G R A P H E R

WITH AN HONOURS DEGREE IN MARINE SCIENCE, F R E E L A NC E PHOTO G R A PH E R J UST I N G I L L IGA N SPEC I A L I SE S I N T H E S U B J E C T O F U N D E R WAT E R P H O T O G R A P H Y, C O M B I N I N G H I S S C I E N T I F I C K N OW L E D G E A N D A RT I S T I C PA N A C H E T O C R E AT E I M A G E S T H AT C E L E B R AT E L I F E A N D R E F L E C T I T S M O S T N AT U R A L S TAT E .

hen did you first discover photography as an interest, and how did it become a passion for you? I was first drawn to photography through magazines such as National Geographic and Australian Geographic from an early age. It was as much about the unusual subject matter, as it was about the light and composition. I learnt to scuba dive in Port Stephens at age 14 and started taking my first underwater pictures shortly afterwards with a Nikonos V film camera. Even though I completed a marine science degree at university, I always had a passion for photography. I would always sneak off to the library in between classes and admire the work of photographers such as David Doubilet (Water Light Time) and Sam Abel (Stay This Moment). I soon found that both of these fields complemented each other, and through photography I was able to show people the unusual species and habitats found in the underwater world. My images were eventually being used for brochures and posters and then later, magazine articles. These days my feature articles tend to focus on the threats to the oceans and the stories behind the hard working researchers out there working to save the marine environment, so it’s constantly inspiring. What are some of the first subjects you photographed? Having spent a lot of time learning underwater photography at Fly Point and Halifax Park in Port Stephens, I was initially drawn to small macro subjects. These sites are a treasure trove of rare and unusual species that crawl, slither and swim amongst brightly coloured sponge gardens. The diving was also quite seasonal, so I started to

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know when and where of each trip. These days, rare species would turn I quite often spend t ou g up at specific times of a reduced amount n ei I like b so the year and really of time covering a , in the wild get a buzz out of greater variety of ed st I’m really intere y first finding them projects, rather than ph in any photogra and then briefly participating in the t of that gets me ou interrupting their research. My work the office .” lives to photograph has been published by them. Amongst these Australian Geographic, unusual subjects were National Geographic Anglerfish, which walked Kids, BBC Wildlife, and New along the bottom on handScientist, amongst many other like fins, Blue-ringed Octopus and publications. Around the same time brightly coloured Nudibranchs - a type of sea my first article was published, I started slug that appear to be coloured by an artist’s entering photography competitions and have palette. now received awards for my work in the Veolia Your work has featured in some great Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition, publications and has also gained you some and the Australian Geographic ANZANG Nature prestigious awards; tell me about that. Photographer of the Year competition, amongst After I completed my university degree, a others. couple of friends and I designed and funded You’re also a featured photographer at our own marine research project on the Cocos this year’s Northern Zone Photography (Keeling) Islands, an Australian Territory located Convention. How did you become involved in the middle of the Indian Ocean. We spent in that, and what are you looking forward around 11 months on the islands during our first to? stay, counting fish and corals on underwater data My father Lives in Port Macquarie with his sheets as a baseline to detect future change to wife, Kay, and they quite often go travelling the island’s marine environment. around Australia. He is also a keen photographer It was the perfect office and an adventure and joined the Port Macquarie Panthers Camera which I thought would make a great story. I Club a couple of years ago and has been drafted up my first magazine article and sent it involved with the club ever since. It has really around to a range of dive and travel magazines. helped progress his photography. We often speak The package was well received and opened up a photography jargon, and I’m sure we don’t even new world of opportunity for me. We have since make sense to most people, and quite often we returned to the islands on several occasions and don’t even make sense to each other. It’s really also expanded our research to Christmas and great to see the positive influence the club has Lord Howe Islands. During each visit I always had on him, with their regular competitions, work on my photography and storytelling ability presentations and workshops. and aim for higher profile magazines at the end When the opportunity arose for me to present

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at the Northern Zone Photography Convention, I thought it would be a great opportunity to present my work and hopefully inspire some of the audience through my work and also be inspired by the other photographers shooting in the region. Is there anywhere or anything in particular you love to photograph? My real specialty is my underwater work. It was how I came to find photography. It has taught me so much, which I have applied to my topside work. For example, whilst scuba diving or snorkeling, you have a limited time in the water before you run out of air or get cold. Therefore, I’ve learnt to plan each shoot and envisage the image I hope to obtain (including the optimal camera settings) even before entering the water. I’ve taken this planning approach and applied it to many other aspects of my photography. I like being out in the wild, so I’m really interested in any photography that gets me out of the office. I’ve really started to enjoy landscape work over the past few years, which can be time consuming but rewarding when you witness an everyday scene transformed into something beautiful and otherworldly in the right light. Even though there are some spectacular places for photography abroad, my favourite photographic destination is Australia. I really think we are so lucky to have so many great subjects right here on our doorstep, and it’s great to be able to return to the same location over and over to increase the chances of really nailing a great shot. If you would like to see more of Justin’s work, please feel free to check out his website (www.justingilligan. com) or Facebook page (Justin Gilligan Photography).

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•NORTHERN ZONE•

PHOTOGRAPHIC CONVENT ION 1 5 T H

1 7 T H

M A Y

2 0 1 5

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HELEN BROWN PORT PANTHERS CAMERA CLUB

FOCUS CHATS TO HELEN BROWN FROM PORT PANTHERS CAMERA CLUB ABOUT THE UPCOMING PHOTOGRPAHY CONVENTION ...

ell us about the upcoming Northern Zone Photography Convention at Port Macquarie Panthers; how can we get involved if we wish, and is it open to the public? Port Macquarie Panthers Camera Club is presenting the 39th Northern Zone Convention in the Auditorium of Port Macquarie Panthers Club. Ten clubs from Grafton to Forster will be participating in the weekend festivities. Educational workshops with talented photographers and an exhibition of over 400 photographs will be on public display in the Auditorium, ranging from Colour, Monochrome, Set Subject to Creative. Doors open

2pm ‘til 9pm on Friday 15th for the exhibition. Gold coin donation on entry. How can we get involved with the Port Panthers Camera Club? New members are always welcome to visit the Camera Club; meetings are held every 2nd and 4th Tuesday in the Rushcutter Room at 7pm. Please feel free to speak to anyone from the Port Panthers Camera Club during the exhibition for further details. If you’re interested in partaking of the whole or part of the Convention, my contact is via Ron Brown: email ronb1940@hotmail.com

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MIKE KANE PHOTOGRAPHER

MIKE KANE, TALENTED LOCAL PHOTOGRAPHER WITH A PASSION FOR PHOTOGRAPHING WILDLIFE AND ALSO STUDIO PHOTOGRAPHY WILL BE SHOWCASING HIS TALENT FOR PORTRAITURE AT THE NORTHERN ZONE PHOTOGRAPHY CONVENTION.

hat is your connection with Port Macquarie? I moved from Scotland seven years ago to Port Macquarie; I teach photography at Skillslink Training Community College and have a small photographic business. Your earliest memories of photography? I borrowed the family camera for a school trip to Falkland Palace in Scotland, and got 12 fuzzy images back; I was happy. What subjects will you be showcasing at the 2015 Northern

Zone Photography Convention? At the Northern Zone Convention, I will be doing a Studio Workshop where amateur photographers will get the chance to photograph a model with a professional studio setup. Where can our readers find out more about your work? You can find me on my website: mikekanephotography.com.au Part of my business is images of Scotland; I travel to Maclean, Bonnie Wingham etc. selling images of Scotland at the Highland Games. Thanks Mike.

ROB SMITH

PHOTOGRAPHER ROB SMITH, PASSIONATE PHOTOGRAPHER, WILL BE SHARING HIS TALENT FOR LONG EXPOSURE IN LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY AT THE NORTHERN ZONE PHOTOGRAPHY CONVENTION.

hat is your connection with Port Macquarie? I'm now retired but a career move from Inverell brought me to Port Macquarie in 1997. I'm here for the rest of my life! I was a corporate photographer and video producer before I retired. First camera you owned and first subject you shot? Voigtlander rangefinder, inherited when my dad died in 1973. I was 17 and used it to chronicle fishing and camping trips with my mates. What subjects will you be showcasing at the 2015 Northern Zone Photography Convention?

I'm not exhibiting images at the convention but doing two presentations: Time Passages - The magic of long exposure photography; and Fusion, mixing traditional stills photography with video, music, and writing - in audiovisuals and photobooks. It's about exploring the variety of presentation media available to modern visual artists who focus on photography. Where can our readers find out more about your work? My website is www.wowfactorpix.com and my photography blog is at www.wowfactorpix.com/blog

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Colonial Cobbler How quickly the seasons come and go, but oh what a privilege to be able to enjoy the journey! As you will note when you look at any of the fashion magazines, the must have for this winter is the ankle boot. Of course, this takes on many guises, from the fashionable high heel, to the very comfortable flat. You will be excited to note that colour has taken a foothold, and we are not confined to the traditional black and brown for the autumn/winter season. We are seeing a trend of pastels, including indigo, teale, reds and oranges, and some textured colour with washed out burgundy, beige and navy. What will be your colour this season? Mix it up

and try out different textures to add to your look, such as leather and suede. Thinking about travel? Many people are on the move these days. The northern hemisphere beckons many of us through our winter months, and as such the need for the comfortable travel shoe. A range of sandals and walking shoes that will fit that need are also still available in store. Step out in sophisticated style and choose colours that will become staples in your winter wardrobe. Stocking quality brands at affordable prices, don't forget to come and browse the new season range at Colonial Cobbler today.

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Not Quite Square

Glasshouse Flowers by design The traditional florist shop is changing, and Glasshouse Flowers by Design is evolving too - with a new studio, improved service, and website that has been refreshed to support easy, online, phone and email orders. Not only can we create for you a gorgeous arrangement of fresh flowers, but our living garden terrariums offer something out of the ordinary. Add a bottle of bubbly or an exquisitely scented candle, and leave the rest to us. Call one of our friendly staff on 6584 2242 to order and book your delivery, or go to the website

Dudes & Dolls This Mother’s Day at Dudes and Dolls Hair, we wanted to celebrate with something special. We will donate to the Port Macquarie Base Hospital gift vouchers to pamper the first 10 new mothers on or around Mother’s Day. We know it is nearly impossible at times to find time to treat yourself when a new bub joins the family, so we wanted to help make this easier.

for the most heavenly blooms, fragrant Stocks, Cymbidium

Here at the salon we have also created a pamper packages gift voucher for everyone to enjoy. So come in and pick up your gift for your your special mum. Our staff will be on hand to help you customise your gift.

Orchids, Snapdragons, Ornamental Kale and Cluster Roses, let

Kerasilk smoothing system - special.

alone our favourite textural elements like berries, seed pods and

In house treatment designed to tame and smooth out frizzy hair.

www.glasshouseflowers.com.au to place your order online. With fresh flowers delivered to our door daily, this is the season

husks. We would love to help you find the perfect way to spoil your mum this Mother’s Day, and we love to surprise our customers with elegant and distinctive designs, a unique range of flowers and gifts and local produce hampers that are simply delicious! Ph: 6584 2242 W: glasshouseflowers.com.au

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Come into Not Quite Square and discover a treasure trove of unique gifts, homewares, apparel and accessories. With a large range of Australian designed and made stock, we pride ourselves on providing our customers with great service, whether it be by purchasing in-store or via our website, where you can also choose to “Click & Collect”. Stocking a wide range of goods, we love a story behind a product. Whether it be a gorgeous handmade clutch by “Simona Handmade”, who is saving up for a cello and a piano through her creations, or the three sisters in Pambula making their gorgeous earrings and pendants, we believe the story is part of the gift giving. We also like to support our local designers and makers and proudly stock “Playground Tactics” sunglasses and apparel and greeting cards by “Made by Me 2444”. Reputable brands you will find at Not Quite Square include Each To Own, Kollab, Omm Design, Nest of Pambula, Wu & Wu, Arro Homes, Jellycat, Aacute, Down To The Woods, Write To Me,

For the month of May we are offering 30% off Kerasilk smoothing system and $90 worth of take home products free.

Concept Japan and more. We also have stock a large range of

We have KMS product deals and giveaways this month, so come in and talk to one of our professional stylists to help you with the right choice for your hair.

With easy parking, call in and ask our friendly staff for a gift idea

children’s toys, clothes and gifts. for that hard to please person. We love sourcing unique gifts that are still affordable and have new stock constantly arriving.

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SPOIL YOUR MUM THIS MOTHER’S DAY WITH THESE CAREFULLY SELECTED PRODUCTS FROM SOME OF OUR REGION’S FINEST RETAIL OUTLETS ...

MOTHER’S DAY

Blooms from Glasshouse Flowers www.glasshouseflowers.com.au

L’Occitaine Arlesiene eau de toilette East Coast Laser and Cosmetic Clinic www.cosmeticandlaser.com.au

Monochrome Home, Elements of Design www.fb.com/elementsofdesignwauchope

Face hand and body pack Ella Baché portmacquarie.ellabache.com.au

Photo Frame, Inside Out @ Lighthouse www.fb.com/pages/Inside-Out-atLighthouse/442920542451384

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Hello Sweetheart tea cup and saucer Not Quite Square www.notquitesquare.com.au

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Celebrate Mother’s Day Spend some quality time with Mum this Mother’s Day with a two course luncheon at Port Macquarie Golf Club.

Quaylime Restaurant Mum this Mother’s Day!

Introducing our new winter menus for

There will be a Mother’s Day Raffle starting at

the Quaylime restaurant for both lunch

12:30pm for everyone to get involved Talented chefs Kieran English and win some great prizes. A and Alex Hallam have a complimentary glass of bubbles delicious menu on offer, for Mum is also included in including a choice of There will be a the price of $32pp. Tickets Moroccan spiced lamb Mother’s Day are on sale NOW! So be at g with figs, almonds, Raffle startin ne yo er ev sure to phone or call into r mash and green beans, 12:30pm fo in w d an ed lv vo reception to book. to get in or chicken breast with es .” some great priz saffron and carrot puree, Come and join us for polenta chips, chorizo BINGO every Monday from concasse and salsa verde. 10:30am and every Thursday Choices of dessert include the from 6:30pm, Wednesday raffles decadent baked Violet Crumble from 5:30pm with FREE Trivia and cheesecake with honeycomb chocolate Members Badge Draw, and Friday night ganache and chantilly cream, or vanilla raffles and Members Badge Draw. bean pannacotta with sour cherry and macerated berries - the perfect way to spoil Great Golf, Great Food, Great Fun!

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and dinner, using fresh produce from local suppliers. A wide variety of different culinary dishes from the very popular eye fillet steak, to homemade steak and ale pie, chicken curry with steamed jasmine rice, as well as our seafood specialties of local oysters and fresh cooked King Prawns. Specials run every day for lunch and dinner. Our new dessert menu has tradional classics like choc molton cake, home made sticky date pudding with gingerbread ice cream, apple and rhubarb crumble and our signature quaylime pie. Our new winter trading hours have started; they are as follows: Wednesday 11:30am - 3pm, 5:30pm - 10pm.

Thursday 11:30am - 3pm, 5:30pm - 10pm. Friday 11:30am - 3pm, 5:30pm - late. Saturday 8am - 3pm, 5:30pm - late. Sunday 8am - 3pm. LOFT 3pm - 8pm. MOTHER’S DAY SUNDAY Bookings are essential. Breakfast from 8am - 11am. Lunch from 12pm - 3pm. MUSIC IN THE RESTAURANT FROM 11:30AM UNTIL 3PM, WITH THE MAGICAL SOUNDS OF PAM HATA AND OPEN MIC IN THE LOFT FROM 3PM. Two course special. Glass of bubbles for the mothers on arrival. Roast sirloin with roast potatoes and fresh local vegies and choice of two desserts, both with vanilla ice cream and strawberry coulis. $30 per person.

Meet Mum @the GLASSHOUSE

for a treat! Sunday 14 June, 2pm An afternoon dedicated to the hit much-loved songs that were performed and sung throughout the war years.

GR EAT SONG S OF TH E WAR YEARS

Saturday 27 June, 6pm & 9pm Melbourne International Comedy Festival is on the road again with a colossal night of hilarity.

ME LBOUR NE INTER NATIONAL COME DY FE STIVAL ROADSHOW

Sunday 9 August, 2pm

MOTH ER, WIFE AN D TH E COMPLICATE D LIFE

The hilarious and heartwarming musical that tells the truth about marriage, motherhood and the juggle to ‘do it all’.

Friday 14 August, 7.30pm & Saturday 15 August, 1.30pm & 7.30pm Australia’s flagship classical dance company presents a stunning Classical Triple Bill.

AUSTRALIAN BALLET PRE SENTS THE DANCERS COM PANY

Spoil mum with a

Glasshouse Voucher

02 6581 8888

She can buy show tickets, gifts from the Glasshouse Shop & more!

glasshouse.org.au greater port macquarie focus. 51

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jim matsinos T H E

A R T

O F

C O F F E E

Jim’s artistic talent and love of coffee has led to an amazing achievement - having one of his designs selected by packaging

specialists Biopak, who will print it on their biodegradable takeaway coffee cups. You could potentially see Jim’s artistry for yourself when you purchase your next cup of coffee locally …

i Jim. I first met you when you were an art teacher at Port Macquarie High School. Please share some of your history with us where were you from originally, and what brought you to Port Macquarie? I was born in Sydney and raised in Broken Hill, NSW. Coming from the “Hill”, my life was full of sport, music and art - typical of what was on offer in a large country mining town. Our arrival in Port Macquarie in 1974 came about via an appointment by the Department of Education - my wife, Vera, as a Physical Education teacher and I as a Visual Arts teacher. When and how did your interest in art develop? As a kid I loved to draw and was heavily influenced by the strong artistic community that characterised Broken Hill - and still does so to this day. However, this early influence lay dormant during my school years. During my secondary education I did not elect art as one of my study areas. It was all English, maths, science and the two histories, ancient and modern. Where did you complete your tertiary training - and what made you decide to choose teaching as a career? Originally I trained as a primary school teacher in Bathurst, specialising in Art and Physical Education. At that time the Department of Education was intending to introduce specialist teachers into the primary system, which appealed to me. My first appointment as a teacher was ironically back to my hometown of Broken Hill. Whilst teaching in the primary area, I also taught art at the local Technical College, known now as TAFE, to adults and children.

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In 1973 I resigned from the Department of Education and travelled throughout Europe, UK, Turkey and North Africa with my wife,Vera. I revelled in countless art galleries, churches, palaces and saw the architecture of the world. On returning to Australia at the end of that year, I applied successfully to become a secondary art teacher. I had never ventured into any art institutions for formal training; I basically taught myself. Later in my teaching career I completed my Bachelor of Education in Art at the University of New England and then went on to complete a Masters Degree in Design and Performance. Describe your artistic style - what do you most like to create (and why)? My style - what style? I love to dabble in it all! I have passed through many different styles, from realism to abstraction. However, over my teaching career I shied away from my own art practice. I spent my time in theatre and trained as a classical vocalist, directed productions and took up a position as an athletics coach at Port Macquarie High School. These pursuits gave me an escape from my teaching. I channelled my artistic nature into the numerous set designs I completed for the Players Theatre in the old Catholic Hall and the Civic Centre, and also for Port Macquarie High and St Paul’s. I created numerous poster designs which were used by The Hastings Choristers, as well as the theatrical companies in Port Macquarie. And every time a senior HSC class went through, I engaged thoroughly in the creative process with my students. Singing became my release through these years, and it is only recently I have returned to my art making. You’ve recently had one of your designs chosen by packaging specialists Biopak, and this design will feature on their

My design is a al simple analytic k ac drawing in bl ak and white . Biop ntainers co re tu ac manuf for all takeaway ought it beverages, so I th draw to le ab was reason .” a coffee branch

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recycled takeaway coffee cups. How did this come about - how were Biopak made aware of your designs? Over the years I have watched a number of exstudents from Port High set up in business. Always wanting to help them improve their lot, I suggest they should present themselves in an artistic way to attract customers. Initially, I was able to have full artistic licence with Luxe Café - then under the original owner Chris Harris. Then, being a mad coffee connoisseur (well, I like to think so) I worked with Stewart Clark, of Doppio or Nothing fame. Stewart refined my understanding of coffee, and in return I undertook to add a more visual presence to his company by designing a new logo and T-shirt. I had been drawing for web based T-shirt Company, Colours 88, and they gave me my own webpage, so when Stewart suggested I submit my designs to Biopak, which is curated by Kate Armstrong from Project OKYO (www. projectokyo), it seemed a logical progression to launch my art into the design world. I was successful, and now the design is being distributed across Australia and New Zealand. I have Stewart to thank for this. I remember in his senior art classes I made him sit up the front, because he found it difficult to sit quietly in class - it was the only way I could ensure he worked hard enough … I think it paid off well for us both! Describe the design that was chosen ... How did you come up with the idea? My design is a simple analytical drawing in black and white. Biopak manufacture containers for all takeaway beverages, so I thought it was reasonable to draw a coffee

branch. It had to have an environmental theme, as these containers are biodegradable. Simple and precise was my approach. The full range of the designs and the artists' statements can be found https://biopak.com.au/ about-us/biocup-art-series~2 Biopak distributes their packaging products from their warehouses in both Australia and New Zealand. Are you aware if the cups featuring your design will be stocked by local cafes/suppliers? Yes, the whole Biopak Art Series is available and distributed in the Hastings area and as far as Coffs Harbour and Forster by Doppio or Nothing. Stewart has assured me that he will be delivering my design to the local outlets. What other projects do you currently have in the pipeline - artistic or otherwise? Where else can readers see samples of your art? I have undertaken to put a small selection of my designs on sale at Bookface here in Port Macquarie. I also still submit works to Colours 88 and plan to have an exhibition of all the original designs later in the year. I may submit another production to direct for the Players Theatre - this allows me to create a large artistic environment and work with other local artists to achieve a grand outcome. I am still singing, and I have an upcoming lunchtime concert in August at the Glasshouse with other musicians and singers. No doubt Stewart will have other things for me to undertake, but for now I plan to turn some serious attention to my upcoming exhibition. Thanks Jim. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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DEBRA

FA R R E L L

L O C A L A RT I S T

D E B R A FA R R E L L I S A L O C A L A RT I S T W H O W I L L B E E X H I B I T I N G H E R C E R A M I C S C U L P T U R A L WO R K S AT H AV E N F I N E A RT S A S PA RT O F T H E C U R I O U S E R A N D C U R I O U S E R E X H I B I T I O N, RU N N I N G ‘ T I L 14 T H M AY.

i Deb. How did your interest in pottery makes it “curiouser and curiouser”. and hand crafted sculpture begin? Tell us about your classes offered at The Mudshack in My interest in pottery and sculpture started Kempsey. in the late ‘80s (I was always doing some sort I have had the Mudshack now for 19 years. I run classes there of creating). I became hooked on the creative on a Tuesday and Thursday. We also sell clay and tools and offer process of pottery when a neighbour was pit a firing service. It’s a very laid back little Shack where students firing, and curiosity got the better of me … which are encouraged and supported to create their own works. led me to attending TAFE to gain Certification What is the inspiration or theme seen in Ceramic Foundation, Studio Certificate throughout your collection? in Ceramics and Surface Treatment and My theme is primarily fantasy, with Design. inspiration coming from my environment, My theme is y primarily fantas What methods are used to create from within my head and from the your individual pieces? imagination of my little grandkids. with inspiration y coming from m All my pots are handcrafted using Do you take special requests or custom om environment, fr d clay coils. The pots are based on orders? an within my head ancient Japanese vessels from the Each individual piece I create comes from of n io at from the imagin Jomon era. My pots have progressed within me and my thought process - which .” ds ki d my little gran over the years to another Japanese style is not like other people’s! Even the Raku of pottery called Raku. By incorporating glazes I have used for 25 years creates its own the Jomon style with the Raku method fate for each firing. of firing, it gives my work a soft, whimsical What will visitors enjoy most about the Haven approach. Fine Arts exhibition, Curious and Curiouser? Raku is a low fired technique in which ware is placed I will be joined by artists John Hyde, Debra King, Jo into an already hot kiln, rapidly fired, removed when red Timmins and Diane Solomon Westerhuis. All five hot and rapidly cooled. The process is not without risks, exhibitors have individual works on display creating thermal shock can, and often does, shatter the piece. a medley of interesting art and sculpture. I also fire work in the electrical kiln, which creates a stoneware Thanks Debra. finish. What can we expect to see at the Curious and Curiouser the plug! exhibition at Haven Fine Arts? You can expect to see a whimsical taste of everything I create, Don’t miss the Curiouser and Curiouser from Raku stoneware fired pots, hand sculptured fabric fanciful exhibition at Haven Fine Arts running ‘til and mischievous ladies, bellydancers and polymer clay fairies. May 14th. 522 Ocean Drive, North Haven. See Also, an array of works from the four other exhibitors, which www.havenfinearts.com for further details.

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greater port macquarie focus. 53

HEALTH Shelley Laing at Beachside Medi Spa

MINERAL 3 BAKED

EYE SHADOW

INCA BERRIES [ PHYSALIS PERUVIANAL ]

Our Italian artisans’ hand-pour our mineral cream cocktail into terracotta pans and after 24 hours of slow-baking, our custom-blended skin creams emerge as a smooth and silky

Issada Tip: Issada Mineral 3 Baked Shadows can be used wet for a dramatic smoldering effect, or also double as eyeliners - the options are endless! Key Ingredients: Minerals, Jojoba, Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary, Green Tea, Magnolia Bark, Safflower Seed and Vitamin E. RRP $45.

nca Berries are the new superfood, packed full of amazing natural goodness. Naturally grown and processed, high in fibre and antioxidants, packed full of flavour, these little dried morsels will leave you wanting more. Why should you include Inca Berries in your diet? Dried Inca Berries have a higher antioxidant capacity than other known superfoods, the highest amount of fibre of all the common

Editorial

G O T

THIS GREEN SMOOTHIE IS PACKED FULL OF GOODNESS, HEALTHY FATS, SUPER FOODS, AND LOADS OF GREEN DELICIOUSNESS.

skin

ith the change of seasons, so too comes the change in our skin. What was an appropriate skincare regime for summer may be completely different for winter. With the drop in temperature, cold winds, central heating and low humidity, skin may become dry, flaky or irritated. It is vitally important to not only look after the skin on the outside, but from the inside also. Increase your intake of essential fatty acids found in foods such as fish, nuts and avocados; this will help to keep skin hydrated. Topically increase hydration by adding a serum or nourishing oil to your normal routine.

greater port macquarie focus.

Serums are far more concentrated then a traditional moisturiser which means the product will penetrate further, giving better results. Exfoliation should ideally be performed once to twice a week depending on your skin type and condition; in doing so, will result in dead skin cells being shed, helping with flakiness. And don’t forget the sunscreen! That’s right: winter skin also requires an SPF to help with harmful UV rays; although lower in winter, they are still very present and can result in premature ageing and pigmentation. So there you have it, a few tips which can make all the difference to your winter skin. For more advice, speak to our friendly team at Port Macquarie Day Spa.

A N Y

GREENER?

Jamie Finn, Port Day Spa

WINTER

dried fruits, and they also contain one of the highest known soluble fibre levels, with around 2 g per 45 g serve, similar to prunes. They’re also extremely low in sodium and are a very good source of potassium and contain around 100 mg of phosphorus per 45 g, or around 10% of an adult’s recommended daily intake. Also high in Vitamin C. So next time you’re out at your health food store, throw some Inca Berries into your basket.

Each powder begins in liquid form. These mineral colour creams are enriched with our organic cocktail of Jojoba, Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary, Green Tea, Magnolia Bark, Safflower Seed and Vitamin E.

Each trio is uniquely selected, dazzling and creative, expertly coordinated in sometimes unexpected colour combinations and textures. Worn alone or together, luminous and matte shades feature micro-fine powders that glide on smoothly, evenly and blend effortlessly for a flawless finish.

Our unique baked technology allows us to maintain unrivalled mineral purity, while incorporating the most luxurious organic extracts for the ultimate skin treatment.

powder dome.

hree coordinating shades baked together in a long-wearing, crease-resistant formula.

¼ avocado 1 green apple 1 cup coconut water small piece cucumber handful of baby spinach 2 kale leaves teaspoon maca powder ½ tsp spirulina handful ice

Blend together and enjoy. *For a more fulfilling smoothie, add a scoop of plain or vanilla protein powder.

Macular Degeneration sending Australia blind

HOW’s your MACULA?

WE LOVE MUMS At endota spa, we love mums, and we have come up with beautiful ideas for every mum. Listen to StarFM leading up to Mother’s Day, follow us on Facebook; we want to share the pearls of wisdom of mums. This year, we’re celebrating the life lessons our mums have taught us. Share a life lesson learned from your mum by listening to StarFM and checking in on Facebook at our location here in Port Macquarie, for your chance to win a daily product prize and a spa day experience for you and a very special mum at our blissful Town Beach location. Mums are nurturing and supportive all year round; we are offering another amazing prize - a year worth of spa treatments! To enter, simply purchase a gift voucher during May for $150 or more to enter to win a monthly two hour treatment for the next 12 months. We are offering 25% off relaxation massage during May when you book in with a friend; be sure to secure a time by calling our spa angels on (02) 6584 7888.

Macular Degeneration is the main cause of blindness in Australia, affecting one in seven Australians over the age of 50. The Macular Degeneration Foundation is running its annual campaign to raise public awareness of the devastating effects of the disease. The 2015 theme is to encourage those at risk to have an eye examination and to highlight the importance of good nutrition in helping to prevent the disease. RISK FACTORS: Anyone over 50 years or those who have a relative with Macular Degeneration or a history of smoking. HEALTHY MACULA DIET: Most of us are aware that a healthy, well balanced diet includes a variety of nutritious ingredients from the five food groups: 1. Meat & Nuts; 2. Vegetables; 3. Fruits; 4. Grains; 5. Dairy. A healthy macula diet is essentially a well-balanced diet with a leaning towards EYE FRIENDLY ingredients, which include: • Lean meats trimmed of fat and FISH at least once a week • A daily serve of nuts such as walnuts, almonds or brazil nuts • Dark green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli • Orange or yellow vegetables such as pumpkin and carrots • Three serves of fruit daily • Cereal high in ﬁbre and preferably wholegrain bread • Reduced fat dairy products A healthy diet can reduce the risk of Macular Degeneration by 30%, and research has shown that certain diet supplements can further help reduce its onset and progression. At EYECARE Plus we assure a thorough assessment of your macula with our state of the art retinal imaging. All patients in May will receive a complimentary brochure with an “eye friendly” healthy diet and a complimentary Amsler Grid screening test for Macular Degeneration.

EYE CARED FOR Macular Degeneration is in her family history. She gets regular eye checks because early detection is critical.

Make an appointment today Port Macquarie

1/29 Horton Street

Ph: 6584 3948 95 William Street

Ph: 6583 7333 Wauchope 6 Bransdon Street

Ph: 6585 2393

greater port macquarie focus.

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Ruth Patient of Saacks Orthodontics

Dr Eric Saacks.

DR ERIC SAACKS Dr Eric Saacks works hard to bring his Port Macquarie patients the very best in orthodontic care. He is one of a handful of dual-trained specialists in both Orthodontics and Periodontics in the world.

his positions him as a leading Braces. They have a unique energy-storing authority in the speciality component called a Spring Clip which works of Orthodontics. Dr Saacks like a computer chip inside your braces which graduated from the renowned can, in many cases, mean quicker treatment University of Pennsylvania in time. the USA in 1996 as a Specialist So, how do you determine what treatment Orthodontist, where he won the prestigious is best for each patient? The only way we can recommend the best treatment is to invite merit award for research in the field of any potential new patient into the practice Orthodontics. for a thorough orthodontic consultation. We We asked Dr Saacks a few questions on allow up to an hour for each consultation. It’s behalf of our readers. completely free and without obligation. Only Are healthy smiles your speciality? when we have chatted to the patient (and Absolutely. We never recommend a parents in the case of younger purely cosmetic procedure at the children) and examined any expense of healthy gums and X-rays or digital images a correct bite. The most and sometimes consulted pleasing thing about being nts with their regular a specialist orthodontist We put our clie dentist can we discuss first and will is to see the confidence d the our comprehensive a healthy smile can only recommen which treatment proposal. treatment course st bring to people of all be will result in the It covers the system ages - young children, sult - a possible end re recommended, length teens and adults. In ile .” truly healthy sm of treatment time and recent years, more adults payment options. are realising they can We also interviewed achieve the smile they have one of Dr Saacks patients always wanted. Ruth - whose daughter, Rhiaan, It is lovely to see mothers and also underwent similar orthodontic daughters, fathers and sons ... often sharing treatment) and asked her: the same appointment times. Has your new smile made any difference Do you offer a choice of orthodontic to your confidence? It made a big difference. treatments? Yes. That has been a founding I noticed that in photos before the treatment, principle of Saacks Orthodontics. We don’t my smile was always closed, or I didn’t like work for manufacturers of braces and the way I looked. Now, my smile is always big orthodontic systems. and so happy looking. I think I smile more now We put our clients first and will only than I ever did before in my life. I am definitely recommend the treatment course which in a better place with confidence and how I will result in the best possible end result - a look. I can say the same sentiments apply to truly healthy smile. In some instances it is a my daughter. For further information about combination of different systems. We offer orthodontic treatment in Port Macquarie clients Invisalign, “invisible braces”, the Damon available from Saacks Orthodontics, call system, Insignia, and other highly customised 6584 2333 or email: admin@ treatments or a combination of systems. saacksorthodontics.com.au One of the orthodontic options exclusively 57 Lord Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444. available from Saacks Orthodontics is SPEED-

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Dr. Bobby Kumar COSMETIC SURGEON Ling: Massage @ Port Macquarie He Ling Ying (Ling) recently returned from her visit to China. The highly respected and hugely popular proprietor of “Massage at Port Macquarie” took the well-earned (and overdue) break to visit family and to review her techniques in Chinese massage. Delighted to be back home in “Port”, she is already busy, happily reuniting with local clients and friends. As a masseur, Ling is highly qualified in Australia as well as in her native China. Her skills are therefore quite unique, as she successfully combines today’s recognised contemporary techniques with time-honoured Chinese modalities, to provide real assistance to those with physical discomfort, sport, health or occupational mobility issues, insomnia or simply common fatigue. In fact, Ling’s loyal long-term clients are an ongoing testimony to her outstanding level of care. Approved treatments are recognised by most major health funds, with HICAPS providing instant rebates in the majority of cases. Ling is fully accredited by the Australian Association of Massage Therapists and practices from her air-conditioned home clinic in the Lighthouse Beach/Shelly Beach area, where parking is just a few paces from the door. Warm, considerate and surprisingly strong, she cares for her clients - male, female, young and not-so-young, with compassion, respect and always with traditional Chinese courtesy and values.

boost your immune system Cold and flu season is nearly here. History shows effective acupuncture and herbal strategies helped the ancient Chinese avoid the dreaded cold and flu symptoms that often come with change of season. Acupuncture treatment creates stronger immune function by balancing yin and yang and strengthening wei energy. In other words, your immune system is boosted and bolsters your lymphocytes and natural killer cells that fight bacteria and viruses. Recent research supports acupuncture’s ability to stimulate the body’s resistance to infection. Regular preventative treatments result in being less affected by cold and flu viruses naturally, without the side effects of cold and flu medications. Rather than reaching for tablets, book an appointment to boost your immunity and see you through this winter. Check out www.christophernesbitt.com.au to see more information on how acupuncture can help you.

TUMMY TUCK SURGERY Q & A ... • Tried diet & exercise but frustrated by that last bit of tummy fat and skin that won’t budge? • Or are you a mum wanting to restore the ﬂatness and firmness of your pre pregnancy tummy? • Have you lost weight but are left with excess hanging skin? If you answer “YES” to any of these questions, then Tummy Tuck Surgery might be for you. Tummy Tuck Surgery achieves a flat, tight tummy by removing residual excess tissue and skin, and tightening the underlying tummy muscles. Liposuction may also be used to create a natural and contoured result. Can Liposuction alone create a flat, tight tummy? Liposuction works well as an independent procedure if the underlying tummy muscles are already tight, only a small amount of fat requires removal and the skin has good elasticity. Can I have Tummy Tuck Surgery if I am overweight? Tummy Tuck Surgery should not be used as a weight loss strategy. Dr. Bobby Kumar, Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery, recommends patients are at, or close to, their optimal weight to achieve the best results. For a consultation with Dr. Bobby Kumar, call Wendy on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009 or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au

greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

KRYSTYNA ZAWADZKA S O M AT H E R A P Y Krystyna Zawadzka recently relocated her business, SOMATHERAPY, to Port Macquarie after many successful years in Sydney ... She tells us about her uniuque and innovative approach that releases patients from chronic pain.

ell us about yourself and how you began your career in health? I worked for many years in the corporate sector, primarily the IT industry. I was successful in my career and did not have to put my mind to health concerns, until one fateful day when a car accident changed everything. I sustained a severe neck injury and thus began a journey searching for some relief from the chronic pain I endured over seven years. I tried many conventional medical treatments and frustratingly, no-one helped my debilitating pain. Finally an enlightened neurologist asked me to write down all of the treatments I had undertaken in seven years that hadn’t worked and suggested that I try something completely different. I then gave myself permission to try any alternative therapy that seemed relevant, and whatever brought me some relief became a therapy on my list to study. This healing journey began over 20 years ago and led me to not only overcome my own suffering, but to motivate me to establish a new career in assisting others to find understanding and relief about their own chronic pain. What are your qualifications? My original university Master Degree is related to my earlier career. In the field of health I have several tactile therapy diplomas and the highest level of government accreditation in tactile therapy. I have extensive training in Anatomy and Physiology, Nutrition, CranioSacral Therapy/ USA, Lymphatic Therapy/USA and I am one of only two fully certified FSM Practitioners and Instructors in Australia. Also, I have studied in the field of Innovative Osteopathic Treatment/ Manipulation of the Peripheral and Cranial Nerves at the Barral Institute/UK. In addition to my formal qualifications, I have spent many years collating my own research and learning ever more adaptive techniques through the experience of treating hundreds of patients. You recently relocated to Port Macquarie; tells about your practice in Sydney. I had a busy and thriving practice in North Sydney and saw a diverse group of clients, some suffering from injuries sustained in

greater port macquarie focus.

accidents, others with sports related injuries, some dealing with nerve related conditions like Shingles Rel easi ng yo ur and Neuropathies, physic al pain is and some others a lot ab out a he ck of ing experiencing chronic el fe st ju m ore th an pain with no easily dy . bo ur be tter in yo medically identifiable u yo ng vi gi It’s ab out causes. I treated the e liv to m the free do children as young yo w u life yo u want, ho as 5, and my oldest PAIN ... want.” patient was 96! Many WHAT MEDICAL people attended the DOCTORS SAY about FSM clinic from distant areas like therapy treatments: the Blue Mountains and Central In my 20 years in medicine, I Coast. have never experienced any treatment I have moved to Port Macquarie last or therapy that provides relief and results November as a lifestyle choice. I am as quickly as Frequency Specific Microcurrent. I offering my full range of Sydney services in have been amazed and pleased. my Somatherapy Clinic in Port Macquarie. - Robert Lerman, MD PhD. Why is your therapy so successful? FSM is a whole new approach to the There are a few reasons I have the success treatment of musculoskeletal pain patients that with patients - one is due to the fact that I am is far superior to any other treatment available. concerned with diagnosing the root cause of This was my personal experience. their pain and delivering the most appropriate - David Simmons MD - Author of The Trigger therapy for real relief and not just band-aiding Point Manual. the symptoms. Secondly, the therapy I provide One of the best treatments that I have found is very unique, highly interactive, educative and is Frequency Specific Microcurrent (FSM)… enables the patient to better understand what This form of therapy works quickly, with is happening with his/her own body and be minimum discomfort and often with a rapid more involved with their own positive outcomes. result … I could actually feel the tissue soften And thirdly, the other contributing factor to the and melt under the microcurrent gloves. I can healing is the gentle, relaxing and stress-free look forward to steady progress. I heartily experience of the touch therapies used. recommend this treatment. How many of you have been taking Devin Starlanyl MD - Author of Fibromyalgia the physical pain for granted and have and Myofascial Pain: A Survivor’s Manual. learned to live with it? Pain puts tremendous WHAT PATIENTS SAY about SOMATHERAPY limitations on your life. You’re constantly putting treatments: mental attention and energy towards the pain, I have tried many kinds of treatment for my and that is holding you back from putting that atypical chest pain, without any relief. Doctors attention and energy towards the things you were unable to diagnose what’s causing the want to do in life. problem. X-rays, MRI and Cat-Scans all showed Releasing your physical pain is about a heck just wear and tear. I was left with strong pain of a lot more than just feeling better in your killers as the only solution. General advice body. It’s about giving you the freedom to live was to give up golf. I decided to try FSM in the life you want, how you want. Somatherapy. After my first treatment, I felt Explore what else is possible in your searching lighter, fitter and more flexible. Now, ten far and wide for a solution to give you relief ... treatments later, I have no pain in my chest at Read how others found their FREEDOM from all. My spine is more flexible and less stiff. My

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golf is easier, better and pain free. My quality of life has really improved in five weeks, and I couldn’t be happier. I am no longer taking any painkillers. Thank you. - Annie Hygert. I had a chronic lower back pain for 20 years, and I had numerous physio, chiropractic and massage treatments with little relief. Last year I developed a disc bulge in my lower back, which made it hard to stand for more than a few minutes. I was facing back surgery as my only option until I found Krystyna. She gave me hope, and she helped me get better with weekly treatments. Within a few weeks, my disc bulge was gone, and I’m now a walking miracle with little pain in my lower back. Thanks Krystyna. - Rhonda Collier. Hi Krystyna, I am so thrilled that I am pain free and doctors now say, “No operation needed!” Thank you, as I am convinced you have helped greatly. - Derek Pola. My comment (Krystyna): Derek came to Somatherapy Clinic in October 2012 suffering from a torn Rotator Cuff in his left shoulder. He suffered severe left shoulder pain, neck pain and referred pain down to his left wrist. The pain was interrupting his sleep, causing him to be fatigued, stressed, and he had great difficulty in working. His doctor advised him to have shoulder surgery as the only option and a few months’ postoperative rehabilitation. Derek was treated with Frequency Specific Microcurrent Therapy twice a week, for 2½ months, resulting in a full recovery. Further experiences and results are on enquiry.

greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Outback ER DR SANDY CLARKE

PORT MACQUARIE’S DR SANDY CLARKE HAS BEEN BUSY OF LATE, TAKING PART IN THE ABC TV DOCUMENTARY SERIES OF OUTBACK ER. CHRISSY JONES CHATTED WITH SANDY ABOUT HER ROLE IN THE EIGHT PART SERIES, WHICH AIRED IN APRIL.

ow did your involvement in the series come about? I worked at Broken Hill Hospital in the Emergency Department for around 18 months. About a year into my stay, a pilot for the documentary Outback ED was filmed. I was the only doctor working nights in the ED and covered the entire hospital overnight, so I saw all patients who presented during the night shift. As there was no other doctor to film at night, basically anything that was filmed overnight I was in. After the pilot was finished, you were invited back for the current series on the ABC, Outback ER ... The pilot was really well received by viewers, and I was invited back to the hospital for the current series Outback ER. The show aired in March and April each Thursday from 8pm, and has just come out on DVD. It was very flattering to be asked back out there to be part of the show, while working there again as a doctor in ED. I took leave from my Port Macquarie role, and went back to Broken Hill and worked day shifts at the hospital for the filming. Why did the ABC choose Broken Hill? I think because of its isolation - it is quite a unique structure and a unique place. The people out there are different from everywhere else; the geography is very different from everywhere else. Broken Hill is part of NSW, of course, so it gets funding from NSW Health, but there is nothing near to Broken Hill in NSW in terms of a tertiary hospital; the nearest tertiary hospital is the Royal Adelaide Hospital. How did the show play out? The crew came in and followed us around. They filmed whilst we worked, and captured stories as they developed. Cameras were set up in different locations of the ED, at the triage desk and the ambulance bay.

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If a presentation came in and it was I love working there, but of course I love something that was either a bit different or working in Port Macquarie as well. I work at something that represented a scenario typical Greenmeadows, a great family medical practice, to Broken Hill, like a mining accident or farming as a GP. injury, most importantly very not the city, they I have travelled a lot with work, and I have would film. There have been many nasty mining always wondered what my family thought of accidents; one I remember is a man who came what I do, so it was wonderful to be able to in at around four in the morning, show them via the show. My mum and (they mine 24 hours a day); dad were really excited to see the he had crushed his left show come out on DVD. I like hand and was of course that they’re proud of me. wearing gloves at the What is the difference You have fewer time. He had tried to between a remote staff to ask for take the glove off, hospital and one like u , yo help face to face and his little finger Port Macquarie? od have to have go stayed behind in the I don't think people to le ab instincts and be glove. I stablised him understand what it is .” rely on them and sent him on to really like to have few Adelaide. One of the resources. You don't have downsides of Emergency what people have available is that you don't know to them in the city, you have the complete outcome of the to be clever, you have to think on patients you see sometimes. your feet - as you do in any emergency Why did you participate in the TV department - but more so when you don't series in the first place; what have you have things to fall back on. You have fewer staff personally gotten out of it? to ask for help face to face; you have to have It sounded like fun, and it was fun. It was a good instincts and be able to rely on them. You great laugh at times, being out there and being have to know how to ask for help, where to get involved in the series. Aside from the serious help, you have to know when you can't have moments in medicine, we had a lot of fun. I help, and you have to do what you can with enjoyed my time in Broken Hill, and it was a what you have. good excuse to go back to see the town and That is something that people working only reunite with the many friends I made there. I in the city rarely get a feel for in medicine. wanted to be involved largely because I wanted Because you can open a cupboard and, by and people to know what Broken Hill is like and large, the supplies are there, and if they aren't what it’s like to be involved in medicine in a there you ring someone who arranges that remote location. for you. In Broken Hill, you don't have that. Outback ER is a wonderful production; I am For example, I had a patient who had had an very proud of being involved in it. It depicts accident and needed a soft collar, but there the town and its challenges really well. Broken wasn't one - supplies had run out or whatever, Hill is a colourful and wonderful town filled so we went across the road to the chemist and with fantastic people. It is a fabulous place. bought one for her. You trouble-shoot.

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Tell us a bit about yourself ... I always wanted to be in medicine of some description, either a doctor, nurse or veterinarian. I also planned on being a trapeze artist on weekends! That's what I told my parents. I am married and have two sons. I became a nurse first, then as my boys grew a bit older, I decided to study medicine and became a doctor. How did your family feel about you going to Broken Hill? My family were very understanding and supportive. My kids are 15 and 18 this year and were like, “OK, see ya!” My husband loves it; he Facebooked everyone he knows and reminded them to watch. He's wonderful, wonderful. He is my second husband; I met him in Broken Hill. He was the best thing I got out of working at Broken Hill; he's the love of my life. I've asked the kids what they think of the show, and they just say, “Yeah, it’s good. You were funny”. Emergency is a good place to clown around a bit; there are lots of light hearted moments on the show as well as the serious stuff; it’s a wonderful blend. There is lots of time for fun, you make time for fun in emergency, because if you don't you get too sad. It is easy to dwell on negative things when there is so much negativity around. There is a lot of positivity too - people get well, people laugh at the stupid mistakes they've made to get them into emergency. People are vulnerable when they are unwell, so it can go one of two ways; it can be a very serious and sad time, or it can be a good laugh and all’s good at the end of the day. Would you be a part of a similar TV production again? Absolutely! Of course, I loved every minute of it. It was heaps of fun, I love, loved it! Thanks Sandy.

BLEPHAROPTOSIS (DROOPY UPPER EYELIDS)

â&#x20AC;&#x153; My eyes feel tired after I read for a while and I cannot keep them open by the end of the dayâ&#x20AC;? is a common complaint in some patients.

atients tend to consult their doctor, wondering if they need cataract surgery. However the problem is often due to Blepharoptosis or drooping of the upper

eyelids.

The eyelids have two major groups of muscles,

The main cause of the problem is a stretching of the muscle which draws up the upper eyelids like a curtain. In addition, the attachment of the muscle to the eyelid is also frayed. Corrective surgery, ie. Ptosis Surgery, involves shortening and reattaching the muscle. In addition, excess upper eyelid skin, muscle

those that close the eye and those that open the

and fat is removed (upper blepharoplasty surgery), all

eye. While closing the eye is usually a voluntary act,

of which makes the eyelid lighter and hence easier for

opening of the eye is almost automatic, ie. one does

the eyelid to be maintained in a good position. The

not consciously open the eyes as the upper eyelids

furrows in the forehead will decrease as the forehead

stay elevated to permit one to see out of both eyes.

muscle no longer needs to work overtime doing the

Blepharoptosis can be congenital (a birth defect), but

work of the eyelid lifting muscle.

more commonly, is due to ageing. In some patients,

Commonly, the problem involves both sides and

the problem is seen in their thirties and forties, but

surgery is done on both sides simultaneously or one

more commonly is seen in patients who are older.

after the other, with the worse side done first.

greater port macquarie focus.

Extreme DANCE STUDIO

BEGIN BRIGHT Let no child ever come to us without leaving happier, smarter and more confident. Learning is fun for everyone when you Begin Bright. Begin Bright is an Australian literacy and numeracy programme run across the country. Our programmes are designed to help your children become happier, smarter and more confident, so that they can reach their own potential in life.

greater port macquarie focus.

PROGRAMMES OFFERED: • 2 year olds early learning. Lessons are designed to revolve around craft, songs and and appropriate concepts. • School Readiness classes for 3 - 5 year olds. Children are introduced to the phonetic sounds of letters, numbers to 20 and are taught the correct handwriting skills to prepare them for Big School. • Primary tutoring in individual or small group sessions • School holiday craft and science workshops • Parent workshops

Extreme Dance Studios students Jett Ramsay and Caitlin Leahy recently attended the Royal Academy of Dance Isobel Anderson Awards in Sydney. As stated from the Royal Academy of Dance: “The Isobel Anderson Awards is recognised as one of the ballet community’s prestigious competitions for young dancers in NSW and the ﬂagship event of the Royal Academy of Dance New South Wales Regional panel.” The prestigious event took place in March, with hundreds of students from all over New South Wales and varying dance schools to compete at the Royal Academy of Dance Scholarship. Caitlin Leahy competed in the Advanced Foundation level and progressed through to the semi-ﬁnals. This is an impressive achievement at this high level. Jett Ramsay progressed all the way through to the

finals and received the prestigious honour of being awarded runner-up. An outstanding achievement for Jett to receive this award for the second year in a row and compete in the Intermediate level, which had the highest number of entrants for the Scholarship. Sarah Quinn, the new Principal of Extreme Dance Studios, was thrilled with the success of her students competing at the awards. Sarah says, “I’m beyond thrilled for Jett and Caitlin and their success at the Isobel Anderson Awards. They are both incredibly dedicated and work tremendously hard, and it’s lovely to see them rewarded for their commitment and talent.” Sarah is taking new enrolments for Term 2 from Tiny-tots to Advanced. For all enquires, please contact Sarah on 0431 091 630.

with Clairvoyant Terri Hall Phone. 0424 818 343

MAY 2015

with Terri

AQUARIUS. January 21 - February 19

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.

ARIES.

March 21 - April 20 Celebrations are coming, so don’t give up your dream. You have needed to recognise your own strength and independence, so you can succeed. Don’t allow the frustration of feeling suspended to spoil your passion or focus. Ruby worn daily energizes the aura with passion and persistence.

TA U R U S . April 21 - May 21

Love is in the air. Honest and open communication needs to be a high priority in relationships. Major life changing decisions need to be completely thought through, so avoid any hasty choices this month. Justice and peace are to be a strong influencing factor where career is concerned, so have and enjoy. Rose Quartz is a wonderful soothing crystal; carry it.

GEMINI. May 22 - June 22

Recently “love” represented heart-ache and hurt, but now your disconnection has aligned you with change. There are some magical rewards coming for home, work and in matters of love and friendship over the next few weeks, so enjoy! Turquoise is great for fun and friendship.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23

Your personal strength is guiding you to a more determined and independent you; however, you may be feeling disconnected from your family and or loved ones at present. This will soon pass, leaving you in a confident, motivated and creative manner. Citrine connects the intellect with creative energy and thoughts.

LEO.

July 24 - August 23 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 selfenlightenment. Travel is likely to be high on the agenda soon. Herkimer diamonds are terrific for all kinds of change.

VIRGO.

August 24 - September 23 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.

LIBRA.

September 24 - October 23 The world is your oyster. Set some goals to aid your availability to what the universe is trying to bring into the picture. A journey will help settle your itchy feet/restless energy and when you return home, you will be positively focused and ready to succeed. The feeling of complete contentment will be yours. Sodalite enables our imagination to take us journeying into alternate realities, so we can realise what we desire.

SCORPIO.

October 24 - November 22 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 us to visualise.

S A G I T TA R I U S . November 23 - December 21

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 well being.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

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.

greater port macquarie focus. 63

focusinterview.

S H A R O N

i Sharon, what was special about Tony’s proposal? Tony put: "Will you marry me?" on top of a chocolate mud cake when we were out to dinner on my 46th birthday. The ring was on top surrounded by sparklers, and the young waitress was peeking around the corner to see my reaction. Very cute! Tell us about the location of your ceremony - why is this place special to you both? We chose Harry's Lookout for our wedding venue, as it is relaxed, private and has a great ocean view. It's special because it's part of our home town but also reminds us of Fiji, which we love also. Where did you decide to have your reception? We had the reception at Blue Water Bar and restaurant. The size of the venue was perfect for us, and the staff were friendly and very accommodating. The menu was fantastic, and it was excellent proximity for guests staying in the area. Tell us about your decorations and the

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A N D

T O N Y

R A T H B O N E

overall theme of your wedding. ready to go. The decorations and overall theme were My brother resurrected the flower from my colourful, coastal, relaxed and there were lots hair, as it hung by a thread! of fairy lights. Jill from Wedding Perfection 5pm Beautiful service, and so excited to see created a beautiful atmosphere for the all our friends and family together. We day. did our own vows, and it was Describe the timeline of meaningful and special. your wedding day. 5:30pm Married! Photos TH E R IN G 9am A million things and lots of smiles and WA S O N TO P running through my hugs and a special BY SU R RO U N D ED head and lots of prayer from Malcolm N D TH E SPA R K LE R S, A excitement and coffee. Rathbone (Tony’s ES S YO U N G WA IT R 10am Pedicure and dad). WA S PE EK IN G another coffee! 6:30pm Beautiful A RO U N D TH E Y M 11am Hair done with meal at Bluewater. E CO R N ER TO SE my girlfriends and a few Great music and lots R EACT IO N.” nerves had set in. of dancing and fun for 12pm Lunch and relax and the rest of the night. thanked my lucky stars for a What was on the menu for sunny day. guests to enjoy? 2pm Makeup. Our menu consisted of a choice of 3pm Half a glass of champagne to calm the entree including chilli squid with herb slaw, nerves. sumac aioli, fennel salt OR confit pork belly, 4pm Got dressed and waited for my brother mustard leek and potato bake with crackle. and my two boys to arrive and my father-inMains were stuffed chicken breast with sage law, who drove the wedding car. and pine nut stuffing on creamy soft polenta 4:45pm Car arrived, great excitement, I was and romesco sauce OR sirloin steak on thrice

“

cooked chips and charcuterie jus. Dessert was our wedding mud cake with fresh cream and raspberry coulis. Who were some of your local suppliers? A big thank you to our local suppliers, who were all awesome, courteous and helpful. Blue Water Bar and Grill PM, Janine Rebecchi from Evoke Photography, Jill at Wedding Perfections for decorations, Debbie Bax and her amazing band Miss Lily's Child for music, Port Hire for Juke Box, My auntie Beth Santuccione for flowers, Kerry Medway Celebrant, Caroline from Caroline's Catering in Wauchope for wedding cake, Jo Forester from Fakin It for hair, Ella Baché for makeup, Sonia's Mobile Nails, and Lighthouse Cellars. What was your favourite part of your wedding day? The favourite part of the day was saying our own vows to each other and having my brother give me away, whilst glancing down at my dad's photo in my bouquet. Watching our children, family and friends relaxed and enjoying themselves was a great memory. It was everything and more I could have hoped for. Thanks Sharon and Tony.

Rae Layton and daughter Sonia Muras, who wears her great grandmother’s 1915 wedding gown.

BRIDAL Cavalcade

A F E W M O N T H S AG O F O C U S CA L L E D O U T F O R R E A D E R S TO D O NAT E T H E I R M U C H-L OV E D FA M I LY W E D D I N G D R E S S E S F O R A S P E C I A L B R I DA L CAVA L CA D E , TO B E H O ST E D BY T H E P O RT M AC Q UA R I E U N I T I N G C H U RC H .

ell, the time for the cavalcade And men are invited too ... We encourage draws near - mark May 30 men to attend, unless they need to be at home in your diaries, for a special with the children - another way of gifting the celebration of weddings and women in their lives. love from throughout the past 100 years. Roz Remind us again what the aim of the Bridal Bond from the Uniting Church tells us the day Cavalcade is … will be a terrific outing for mums, grandmothers We felt this was a creative way to celebrate and daughters - so why not consider doing being a grandmother, a mother, a something different to celebrate the daughter, a friend. We are focused women in your life during May on the Fistula Hospital in the month for mothers! Ethiopia and Catherine Roz, it seems you have he day will T Hamlin's amazing work in the Bridal Cavalcade celebrate one repairing and restoring well underway ... The of hundred years15young women back window at KOORONG brides from 19 into their communities sic Bookshop looks simply 2015, with muth e after traumatic child lovely … remember

“ to

and births. We will have Yes, the oldest bridal century of love the er d n u a small DVD clip of marriage dress we have is the .” baton of Narelle Catherine's work during one in the photo above the parade. All monies and was worn in 1915. It is modelled by the bride's great raised will go to the Fistula granddaughter Sonia, and Rae, the Hospital in Ethiopia. bride's granddaughter, is the bridal gowns We here in Australia have so much convener for the big day. for which to be thankful, and perhaps from a The day will celebrate one hundred years grateful heart we can be part of the healing and of brides from 1915 - 2015, with music to hope for our sisters in developing countries. remember the century of love and marriage And how will the cavalcade be presented? under the baton of Narelle. As a wedding with a difference! Many brides, With Mother's Day just around the corner, with many love stories to share ... followed by a I see you are promoting this event as a gift beautifully prepared and presented high tea, in for mothers and grandmothers… the capable hands of our caterer, Ann. The dress Yes, the cost is $25 ph (tickets are only code is formal. available at the door) and there will be two And the dates/times for the event? handsome men at the door to receive all monies Saturday, May 30th is the date - 2 - 5pm at on the big day. the Port Macquarie Uniting Church, Sherwood Invitations promoting the event plus the book HOSPITAL BY THE RIVER by Catherine Hamlin are available at Koorong. Gift vouchers are available prior to the event as a gift for Mother’s Day and can be purchased from Kaye in the Uniting Church office: Ph. 6581 2414.

Road.

People unable to attend on the day can still contribute to this event. Donations can be left at the church office, 9am - 1pm weekdays, clearly marked for “CATHERINE”. Thanks Roz – all the best for the event. greater port macquarie focus.

focusmotoring.

“The Smug”

THIS MONTH THE SMUG TEST DRIVES THE BRAND NEW MAZDA CX-3 2.0L AKARI AWD, COURTESY OF PORT MACQUARIE MAZDA.

lthough I get to drive some the handling in and around town as well as on the pretty special cars as part of the open road is a tidy as it gets. Smug review, every now and The 2.0L Skyactiv-G petrol engine is certainly then a real show stopper comes something to appreciate, which is essentially a along and raises the bar even new generation combustion engine that generates higher. more performance from less fuel. Sticking with the This month it was a real pleasure experiencing the engine for a second, this little nugget punches out brand new Mazda CX-3 2.0L Akari AWD. 109 kW of power and consumes as little as The little sibling of the CX-5, CX-7 6.1 litres of fuel per 100 km combined. and CX-9, the Mazda CX-3 is sure Safety is well covered, with the to be one of the hottest set of use of ultra high tensile steel in ith w ng wheels going around in 2015. the underbody, which delivers ki ic St With Mazda predicting excellent collision protection the engine for tle lit is th , nd Australian sales of 1,000 something that you’d expect co se a out per month, there’s every in much larger SUVs, but not nugget punches an d 109 kW of power as chance that the CX-3 will necessarily a smaller car. tle consumes as lit r 10 0 feature in car of the year For the technology fiends, pe 6. 1 litres of fuel stats in the very near future. there’s an exciting central km combined.” There’s plenty to like about command system which can this pint sized SUV. From the be optioned up to include unique and seamless body shape everything you’d ever need. to the incredible technology, the From satellite navigation, smart new addition the Mazda stable literally phone connectivity including Facebook has it all. and twitter feeds as well as a very cool Owning a Mazda CX-5 myself, I already function that reads text messages and emails, had a very good idea of how comfortable the so you can keep both eyes and hands where they CX- range actually drives, but I was really surprised should be whilst driving. how well the smaller sized SUV performed and the Something that struck me as a serious upgrade amount of new technology it includes. was the added safety feature in the i-Activesense On the road the CX-3 sits slightly higher than a package. Just like some high-end European vehicle regular sedan and is as sporty in the handling as technology package that you pay through the you like, with the option to transfer the powertrain nose for, Mazda has certainly spared nothing with into sports mode. Driver comfort is excellent, and this little inclusion. Essentially, the i-Activesense

“

66 greater port macquarie focus.

technology is a system that (through a series of sensors and radar technology) detects potential hazards whilst driving. From reversing alerts and camera system to brake assist, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning and even an automatic high beam control function, which means no more flicking the high beams on and off when driving at night. The incredibly sleek exterior meets prestige and driver comfort on the inside. With plenty of internal room to keep your knees out of your throat, the interior is crisp and clean lined and incredibly comfortable for around town and on the open road. Something to note is the range of engine sizes and types to cater to all styles and budgets, including a 1.5 L diesel AWD, a 2.0 L petrol manual or automatic and front wheel drive options for the strictly city slickers. Personalising this make of vehicle is a cinch, with an abundance of colours, trims and rims. In any SUV, plenty of boot space is essential to carry everything from the recreational equipment through to the weekly groceries. The CX-3 misses nothing when it comes to boot space, with a two level adjustable compartment that has to be seen to be believed. The Mazda CX-3 Akari really is a stunning piece of kit, and I’m predicting that this model will live up to predicted sales figures and I’m going to go out on a limb and suggest that this model may even take out the 2015 car of the year award for its class. This one is well worth your inspection.

greater port macquarie focus. 67

Ancient Asian Trails WHY CRUISE? It’s an easy, convenient way to travel. Unpack once, and experience the best of the region you are visiting in one cruise holiday. There is nothing easier than simply waking up in the morning in the world’s most exciting and interesting cities. Tokyo: Contemporary Tokyo may be the most astonishing city on earth. It’s a paradoxical mix of ancient tradition and postmodern culture. The Ginza - an international shopping mecca - stands near the serene grounds of the Imperial Palace, and the hyper-speed of 21st Century consumerism is mysteriously reconciled with the elegance and serenity of traditional culture. Tokyo provides the traveller with a dizzying experience. Hong Kong: The former Crown Colony has enough attractions to last a lifetime. Take in the entire spectacle and head to Victoria Peak

68 greater port macquarie focus.

for panoramic views. Enjoy lunch on one of the city’s floating restaurants. Walk down one of the crowded streets to take the city’s rapid pulse. And whether you think you are in the mood or not - shop. After all, you are in the duty-free capital of the world. Ho Chi Minh City: Over three decades have passed since the Vietnam War ended with the fall of Saigon. Today, the name of this bustling metropolis on the Mekong River is Ho Chi Minh City. Yet, the essence of the city, a major trading centre since the 18th Century, remains unchanged. The air is filled with the cries of street hawkers and honking horns. Bicycles, motorbikes and automobiles fly down the boulevards at dizzying speeds. And everywhere, friendly faces and warm greetings meet you.

with Susie Boswell.

focus_Travel

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N :

DA RW I N & S U R ROU N D S

race yourself, winter’s nearly here. Travellers’ thoughts are turning to warmer climes. It’s the perfect time to consider Darwin as a holiday destination. As autumn draws to a close intending tourists begin consulting travel agents or the net seeking a spot in the sun – same old Bali, Thailand, Fiji and so on – yet overlook a remarkable experience that awaits here at home. Our well-travelled population visits numerous far-flung places but so few have experienced Darwin. They’re missing out. There’s a buzz in the air in Darwin unlike any other spot on our map. I find it akin to the indefinable exuberance that typifies locations such as New York (but not L.A.), Istanbul (but not Athens), Beirut (though not Cairo). It’s a shame so many travellers overlook this intriguing city and its surrounds. Northern Territory Tourism’s noted visitor numbers declining since the year 2000. It’s not that Darwin and the Territory have been lacking but rather the dollar’s strength and greater air travel options have induced holidaymakers to travel abroad. The gap between outbound tourism and inbound tourism was never greater. But now that’s changing; the decline in our currency - and maybe south-east Asia ennui - is impacting the desire for overseas travel. So, time to reassess. With the official end of the wet season on April 30, northern Australia’s transitioning to the Dry. According to the Met Bureau, humidity’s already dropped in the tropical north. While Darwin’s average temperature hovers in the low 30s year-round, the dry season, May to September, offers warm sunny days with low stickiness and little rainfall. Time to go! HOTELS: Dozens of Darwin hotels across a range of room rates, many with modern self-catering kitchens, provide an excellent base for exploring the city and environs. If the budget doesn’t permit luxury, many more humble choices (but not all!) are fine: they’ll have standard Territory amenities of air-con and ceiling fans, essential for a comfy night’s sleep. DARWIN SAILING CLUB: Everyone’s welcome at this glorious spot on Darwin Harbour famous for its superb sunsets, friendly ambience and palm-fringed foreshore beer garden for brunch, lunch, dinner and BBQs. Learn To Sail courses, Twilight Sailing, or accept a likely invitation of a berth on a local’s boat on race day. A must-do.

MINDIL BEACH SUNSET MARKETS: Moments from Darwin’s CBD, the generous stretch of Mindil Beach hosts Australia’s best mixed markets every Thursday and Sunday evening. Darwin’s marvellous multicultural heritage is showcased in an array of grab-and-go exotic cuisines from some 60 food trucks and stalls, and the crafts of more than 100 vendors. Picnic barefoot on the grass or sand for a stunning sunset view, free musical and mingling with new friends in the warm night air. (Takeaway in containers for stocking the hotel fridge). On Saturdays also visit superb Parap Markets for fresh produce and the best fragrant laksa, and Cullen Bay Marina for fish & chips any time both locations also adjacent to the CBD. DARWIN WHARF: Yet another attraction on your doorstep, the massive historic Wharf is open daily until late, offering a vast cast of al fresco dining options and a fine seafood restaurant. Darwin’s a cornucopia of fresh seafood that practically jumps off the trawlers moored at the city’s edge. Take a harbour cruise or simply toss a line into the depths: satisfying results guaranteed. Free live entertainment under the stars, those beautiful sunsets and refreshing sea breezes. FOR FAMILIES: The Wave Pool on the waterfront is a huge landscaped swim lagoon that creates thrilling tube-riding and boogieboarding when a regular siren signal starts a pulsating swell of waves. Wading pools for toddlers. Also in the heart of town, Crocosaurus Cove has an awesome display of Australian reptiles. Swim with the crocs, fish for crocs from a platform, or enter the Cage of Death for a full-on man-eater encounter. Barramundi, sawfish and turtles in the aquarium. JUST OUT OF TOWN: An overwhelming natural environment of red ochre and green wetlands and waterfalls. Self-drive is easy or pick from many wonderful guided tours. There’s Kakadu of course, and a terrific day out swimming at Litchfield. Territory Wildlife Park, 60km away, is just the best zoo, with magnificent displays. Free shuttle train around the park carries wheelchairs and strollers, both available here. GETTING THERE, STAYING THERE: Sydney’s the gateway for direct flights at reasonable advance fares. Stay 7-10 days at least; I don’t see the point of the many three-night packages on offer. Explore www.travelnt.com

Mid Coast careers market Are you the parent of a high school student? Would you like more information to help your child with their career and study choices? The aim of Mid Coast Careers Market is to provide awareness of local employment and training opportunities, vocational pathways and post school options for students from Years 9 to 12. Through a fun and interactive showcase, the day provides an opportunity for students and

parents to gather useful information about a range of career options, assisting them in making an informed decision about their career path. Regional, state and national industry bodies including representatives from TAFE, Centrelink, Defence Force, Police, Financial Institutions, Council, Apprenticeship Centres, Service providers and community organisations will be exhibiting at the expo.

greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

DANIELLE DANIELLE MORANTE’S PASSION FOR VOLUNTEER WORK HAS LED TO MANY ADVENTURES … HERE, WE FOLLOW HER STORY IN MALAWI, AFRICA … AND THEN TRACK HER ACROSS THE GLOBE TO MONGOLIA … i Danielle. Last time we spoke - quite a few years ago now - you were back from a volunteering experience in Haiti. Since then, you’ve spent a year in Malawi, Africa. What led you to travel there? Hi Jo, nice to chat again! Haiti was a really great introduction to overseas volunteering. It exposed me to hands on disaster relief and allowed me to learn some practical skills in manual work like swinging a sledgehammer, mixing and pouring concrete, and running a full wheelbarrow of rubble! After that experience I was keen to find a volunteer project where I could use my professional qualifications as an occupational therapist and invest more time to achieve some longer term goals. In the meantime, I completed a locum role at Royal Darwin Hospital and spent time exploring the beautiful Northern Territory, while finding myself in new and interesting professional scenarios. This work was good preparation for my position at Kachere Rehabilitation Centre (Malawi Against Physical Disabilities www.mapmw.org) in Blantyre, southern Malawi, where I was lucky enough to spend the past year leading the occupational therapy department and lecture at the University of Malawi, College of Medicine. What were some of the best experiences you had in Malawi? I love going out into the villages where everything runs on a different schedule, seeing how the farming families live and the countryside, mountains, lake, tea fields, burning sunsets. Climbing Mount Mulanje was always a highlight. Malawian legend refers to the spirits of the ancestors, and there is certainly something magical about the area. Lake of Stars is an annual music festival set up on the sandy, palm lined shores of Lake Mala70

greater port macquarie focus.

wi. With food, art, fashion, martial arts, poetry, dance and music around the clock for three days and an awesome, relaxed crowd, it is definitely up there with my favourites! The Malawian chinkhoswe is a marriage celebration of the best kind - music, food, dancing, beautiful clothing, and traditions including the symbolic exchange of live chickens, the giving of counsel by elders for a long and happy union, and the dancing around throwing money at the happy couple. These events are open invitation, so the entire community gets into the party! What do you most recall about the people you lived and worked with in Malawi? I will never forget the ladies cooking group at Kachere. They taught me to prepare the staple dish, nsima, on the outdoor fire, told me all about their lives and children and would promptly correct my Chichewa! Tailors are typically male in Malawi. Ken and Robert were the best in town and would work around the clock to keep all their customers and support their families. I could design a dress using a drawing or just by describing and a few days later, would collect a vibrant, beautiful, well finished garment! The Girl Guides at a local primary school were a delight to visit. They would eagerly demonstrate a new song and dance and would proudly show their letters and drawings for their pen friends in Australia. I often think about the man who ran for over an hour in bare feet on a hot day to return a borrowed wheelchair that had been used by his recently deceased mother. He knew our stock level was critical and he was just so grateful, that he wanted to ensure someone else in need could use it. Describe some of the tasks you had to complete throughout the year ... I have visited outreach clients in remote areas

to deliver wheelchairs the nomadic lifestyle of I LOVE GO IN G and education, trained the Mongolian people. OU T IN TO TH E ER E rehabilitation techniI have received a very VI LL AG ES W H NS ON A RU EV ERYT H IN G cians to make hand warm welcome from E, UL ED H DI FF ER EN T SC splints from plumbing my colleagues and have E TH OW SE EI NG H IL IE S LI VE M FA pipe using a heat commenced language G IN RM FA TRYS ID E, gun, assembled and classes, which are quite A ND TH E CO UN KE , M OU NTA IN S, LA IN G repaired wheelchairs, diffi cult, but always a RN TE A FI EL DS , BU designed bathroom laugh! I plan to explore SU NS ET S. ” seating using spare out in the country and go parts, taught physiotherapy hiking and horseriding when students, attended Association I can. meetings to introduce an occupaYou’ve volunteered in so many tional therapy course at the university, and roles over the years. What keeps you facilitated wheelchair basketball games. motivated ... what do you find most rewardAnd while you’re completing this interview, ing about volunteering? you’re actually in Mongolia. You really do The variety of roles is what keeps my work get to see a lot of the world! Tell us more interesting. I’m fortunate to be in such a versatile about why you’re there ... profession that I can be working in a hospital, in That’s right - I jumped right into another a teaching facility, in a corporate setting or supfantastic opportunity! I will be living in Ulaanporting people in the community. My approach baatar, the Mongolian capital, for the next year has always been to remain open to out of the volunteering as a Disability Officer for the counordinary challenges. While there have been many try’s only Independent Living Centre. The Centre challenges, the new friends and travel adventures aims to establish a supportive environment for have certainly been the rewards! independent living, working, education and comWhat’s next for you? You’re in Mongolia for munity participation for people with disabilities. a year ... are you looking any further ahead The Centre also provides advocacy in line with than this? the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with My mum is looking forward to reading this Disabilities. response! But seriously, a lot of great things can What are your current living conditions like happen in a year, so I’d like to just enjoy the ride. ... describe the climate, the food, the people I wouldn’t rule out living back in Australia after you’re currently experiencing ... this, but I’ll let you know … Exactly the opposite of Africa! I was welcomed While you’re away overseas, what do you to Mongolia with a big snow fall - everything miss most about Port Macquarie/the Hastis covered white and the air is crisp. The food ings area? available in the city is international; however, I miss the locals, my dear family and friends. I traditional Mongolian food features a lot of miss long, deserted runs from Lighthouse Beach mutton and dairy. The national drink, called down towards Lake Cathie, the coastal walk, the Airag, is made from fermented mare’s milk, bush and being on/in/under the ocean! which is considered as important as the horses in Thanks Danielle. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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WHAT MAKES A

D I AM VE RY PROU VE HA E W T OF W HA AT RE HE ED AC HI EV EG E. TH E NE W M AN CO LL OR IS A CT SE RE CA AG ED M EN T OY PL GROW IN G EM ED TO NE E W D AN , AR EA NU RS ES OF DE VE LO P TH E .” RE TU FU TH E

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Newman HSC so unique? The answer can be found within the story of NSW Training Awards nominee Mrs Karen Warneken. Five years ago, Newman College responded to the growing demand for training of nurses within the aged care industry. In a bold move, the College commenced delivering the Certificate III in Aged Care and forged a strong and fruitful partnership within the aged care industry.

hat makes a Newman HSC so unique? This move has yielded over 30 School Based Trainees, with many of these students progressing into fulltime work, as well as a number of students continuing onto university studies in nursing. All of this has been made possible through the wonderful skills and expertise of Karen. As a teacher at Newman College, Karen’s challenges are both within the classroom and equally in ensuring that the training delivered meets the needs of the industry. Karen is a fully qualified and practising Registered Nurse who has been working within the industry for over 16 years. During her time as a teacher at Newman, she has developed the full programme of delivery, worked with local providers to ensure the quality of the programme, overseen the construction of a three bed simulated aged care ward,

built strong partnerships with local aged care providers and raised a family with her husband, Jason. Karen has been nominated in the North Coast VET Trainer/Teacher of the Year category of the NSW Training Awards. This is a just recognition of the outstanding progress she has made within Newman College and the outcomes she has provided to over 100 young potential nurses. “I am very proud of what we have achieved here at Newman College. The aged care sector is a growing employment area, and we need to develop the nurses of the future,” Karen commented. “Newman College provides the right environment for the delivery of the aged care course; it allows for significant workplace learning experiences - most students will do over 100 days in the workplace, which is invaluable in this complex and challenging career field,” she added.

Left to Right: Karen Warneken, Dot Gibbs, Hannah Shaw, Emma White

“Karen is a highly skilled and valued member of our staff,” said Principal Stephen Pares. “Like so many of our staff, she brings with her a wealth of experience in her industry, has a focus on the long term career goals and development of students and she has built a programme of School Based Traineeships which is unmatched by any other school in NSW. Karen is a truly unique teacher, mentor and industry leader. “ Newman College provides a curriculum that

others can only admire. Across the trade and service industries, the curriculum focuses on the achievement of many different goals. The HSC is a key component of student success. This is supported by Nationally Recognised Qualifications, a Workplace Learning Programme providing several hundred hours of experience and a holistic approach to the development of young people. Opportunities at Newman College for enrolment will open in July, with high demand for places expected.

greater port macquarie focus. 71

by Michelle Newman from Newman Communications

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

Jock Garven Principal

he first students of Lake Cathie Public School walked through the gates on 28 January this year, but Principal Jock Garven has been busy working behind the scenes at the newly built school since September 2014, bringing the long term

school spirit and sharing that with the local community. His days are filled to the brim with variety - from financial planning to working with local community groups, to meeting with Council, to retrieving hand-balls off the roof. Duties also include curriculum planning, enrolment enquiries, preparing risk management vision to life. procedures, and shooting hoops with the Having worked in the public school kids. system for more than 20 years, Handing out certificates and ribbons H EA R IN G including in Sydney and North Haven, to deserving students is one of the T H E G EN U IN E Mr Garven is relishing the opportunity highlights. “Hearing the genuine G ‘G O O D M O R N IN to lead the team of five teachers and ‘Good morning Mr Garven!’ as S M R GA RV EN !’ A E AT 85 students while growing the spirit children arrive at school makes for a R IV C H IL D R EN A R FO R of the school and contributing to great day,” Mr Garven said. ES SC H O O L M A K change in the local community. The most memorable moment so A G R EAT DAY.” The school has adopted the motto far was the first day of school for the “Spirit, Opportunity and Excellence”. kindergarten students. “Watching them “Our wonderful school spirit comes receive their ‘Baggy-Blue’ hat and walk to not from new shiny facilities, but from the class with their excited teachers, all in their personalities that come to learn and who embrace stunning new uniforms, was a special moment I the opportunities provided,” Mr Garven said. shared with very proud and appreciative parents.” The demanding role of a Principal is to provide As part of his personal ethos of “pay it forward”, Mr educational and administrative leadership. “It involves Garven has been leading school bands since his first year of providing a quality learning environment where students feel teaching. In May he will be hosting an Enrichment Big Band safe and inspired to learn,” Mr Garven said. camp for Years 5 to 9. The three day camp will culminate in Mr Garven said the prerequisites for the position include a performance at this year’s Big Band Blast on Friday 29 May. a clear vision, ability to embrace others and their ideas, “School music to me has always been about student welfare communication skills, enthusiasm with patience, and loads of and if we knock out a good tune too, it’s a bonus!” community spirit. “Most importantly, an ability to understand While his days may be busy with organisation, people, especially kids!” management and planning, Mr Garven’s most significant and Outside the usual job description, Mr Garven’s role involves rewarding task is to nurture a school community where all a range of responsibilities unique to the task of establishing a backgrounds are embraced, individual needs are catered for, new school from the ground up, including building a strong and strengths are fostered.

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greater port macquarie focus.

7:15am

Coffee from Caramels, then off to school. Book casual teachers if required. Timetabled staff meetings.

8:15am

First bus arrives; students on site.

8:45am

Morning bell; lessons begin. Planning, ordering, emails and mail, meeting with office staff about budgeting and communication.

10:45am

Recess bell. A walk through the playground to engage with students.

11:10am

Mid-morning bell for middle learning session. Maintain computer systems and iPads. Phone calls with parents and Department officers.

12:55pm

Lunch bell. Discussing students’ achievements over a quick lunch.

1:45pm

Afternoon bell. Create communications ready for email, website, Facebook and the Skoolbag app.

2:45pm

Home time bell. All staff on bus duty. Conversations with parents.

3:00pm

Timetabled teacher professional learning sessions.

5:00pm

Lock up gates. Take my own children to music lessons, soccer, basketball and dance.

Local World War II Veteran, Pat Yates has been busily putting together an exhibition to help raise funds for the Marine Rescue Centre.

PAT YAT E S

Marine Rescue E X H I B I T I O N S T O R I E S

F R O M

T H E

LO CA L WOR L D WA R I I V ET E R A N, PAT YAT E S H A S B E E N BUS I LY PU T T I NG TO G ET H E R A N E X H I B I T ION TO H E L P R A I S E F U N DS FOR T H E M A R I N E R E S C U E C E N T R E .

Breakwall

A N I NSTA L L AT ION OF A RT & S OU N D @ T H E PI LOT STAT ION

nspired by the history of The Camden and theatres, with her first band Dirty Lucy and Head Pilot Station, the Breakwall and its most recently with the Multi-ARIA nominated surrounds, artist Sarah Parker and musician performer Kate Miller-Heidke. Nicole Nicole Brophy will end their two will be performing new songs week residency at the historic and collaborating with artist property with a weekend of Sarah Parker during the free activities. weekend installation at Experience their ...an installation The Camden Head Pilot muse, exchange stories of paintings , Station. , gs in draw with each other, or sculptures and Parking only @ Pilot of n io ct simply enjoy the art a feminine refle t lo Pi Beach Car Park and d ea The Camden H and music at this ” y. walk up the ramp. or Station’s hist stunning location. FREE WEEKEND Sarah Parker has been EVENTS @ THE PILOT exhibiting nationally and STATION internationally over the last Saturday May 9, exhibition twenty-five years; her artworks Open 11 - 5pm. are held in private collections Artists’ talk 3pm. around the world. Sunday May 10, exhibition 11am - 5pm. Sarah’s exhibitio, Stories from the Breakwall MOTHER’S DAY PICNIC Performance 1pm, is an installation of paintings, sculptures and Monday 4 May 2015. drawings, a feminine reflection of The Camden Community Workshop 6 - 8pm. Head Pilot Station’s history. Materials provided *Bookings required. Nicole Brophy has performed to thousands at some of the world’s biggest music festivals 6559 6699.

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he works to be featured are a variety going! That was really interesting.” of paintings representing a range of Pat’s new drawings will be on show at the boats and marine scenes from around Port Macquarie Marine Rescue Centre on the area. William Street. Pat has made his name in the The works will be for sale, art world mostly through his with 50% of the money k or stunning drawings and going directly to the w t’s Pa e To se t or sketches from World War Marine Rescue Centre. pp su to d an e in ar II, which he served in The Marine Rescue M of k or the w the Port to ad from 1942 and 1945. Centre is the State’s he , ue sc Re ine Rescue Pat began drawing volunteer service Macquarie Mar m Street in his early years as a dedicated to saving Centre on Willia to 23rd from 16th May child. lives on the water. m and May between 9a “I particularly The organisation is an 4pm .” remember during the independent, not for profit Depression years my uncle organisation and provides lived in the same street. He 24 hour emergency response, used to sell newspapers, and he Log On vessel tracking, a marine used to bring home the placards they used radio safety net to monitor traffic along in those days - the ones that were leaning the coast, boating safety education and up at the newsagents or at the tram stops. licensing courses to anyone who needs it. I could scribble and draw on the back of To see Pat’s work and to support the work them. He used to draw too - but he only drew of Marine Rescue, head to the Port Macquarie cowboys and horses! I drew everything I could Marine Rescue Centre on William Street from see - pots and pans … trees … people. Then, 16th May to the 23rd May between 9am just after the war started, I started to do a and 4pm. For more information about the correspondence course with ICS - which is still exhibition, phone 6582 1361.

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focusinterview.

RED SHIELD APPEAL

FA S H ION E D4F R E E D OM I S A LO CA L G ROU P OF PEOPL E BA S E D F ROM TA R E E TO COF FS H A R B OU R, WOR K I NG TO G ET H E R TO R A I S E F U N DS A N D AWA R E N E S S FOR T H E A21 CA M PA IG N - A G L OBA L ORGA N I SAT ION, DE DIC AT E D TO F IG H T I NG SL AV E RY I N T H E 21ST C E N T U RY.

FASHIONED4FREEDOM P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E

2 0 1 5

T H E SA LVAT ION A R M Y I S A B OU T S U PP ORT I NG PEOPL E TO F I N D F R E E D OM. M A JOR B R ET T GA L L AG H E R, COR PS OF F IC E R P ORT M ACQ UA R I E SA LVAT ION A R M Y, A N D M E M B E R S OF T H E SA LVAT ION A R M Y R E D S H I E L D A PPE A L COM M I T T E E A R E R E AC H I NG OU T TO M E M B E R S OF T H E P ORT M ACQ UA R I E-H A ST I NG S COM M U N I T Y TO JOI N T H E I R “A R M Y OF HOPE” T H I S M AY, TO S U PP ORT T H E I R M A JOR F U N DR A I S E R – T H E SA LVAT ION A R M Y’S R E D S H I E L D A PPE A L .

he Salvation Army believes in open their door when knocked and give a freedom through community donation to support The Salvation Army’s - the power of a community programmes, that help individuals ‘find can deliver the “freedom to freedom’ - from fear, neglect, poverty and make a difference”. addiction and to give them freedom to HOW CAN WE HELP? dream, love, and live life to the full”. “We are reaching out to the business The Salvation Army wants to ensure community, asking for their support at the that no one has to go it alone. But breakfast on Friday 22 May”. The they can’t do this without our breakfast, hosted by The support. Westport Club, launches The generosity of our the Red Shield Appeal ssibility Po community will support each year. For a pledge and a future is our local Corps Office of $50 (100% of this ant something we w fund rehabilitation money goes to the for everyone – no our programmes for peoin Appeal) attendees exceptions . So jo give d ple with drug, alcohol an are uplifted by the army of hope r ou e se to n and gambling addicamazing stories told what you ca

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e tions. The funding for by guest speakers, movement thriv the nine month resident enjoy a great breakfast and get the opportunity to rehabilitation programmes network. What a wonderful helps support expenses such start to a Friday! as housing, food and counselling In this, the 100th year of the ANZACs, services. our breakfast will acknowledge the role The Salvation Army’s emergency services of The Salvation Army Chaplains who support disaster-affected situations, with the support the Australian military personmost recent in our area being the February nel - the role they play on the front line 2013 floods. The Army helps feed people in and when our solders return home. Guest emergency evacuation centres and afterspeakers Lieutenant Colonel Don Woodwards with vouchers for food, etc. land and Captain Matthew Donnelly have Other local services which are funded by both served on the front line in Vietnam the Red Shield Appeal include Bethany Serand Timor respectively. Don was the first to vices for aged care in Port Macquarie, and devise a trauma counselling service for our holiday camps for disadvantaged kids. armed forces. The Salvation Army chaplain From The Salvation Army website: positions are fully funded by money raised “Possibility and a future is something we through the Red Shield Appeal. HOW ELSE WE CAN HELP? “We are reaching out to members of our community to give a few hours to join the army of volunteers to doorknock their neighbourhoods on Sunday 31 May, or to 74 greater port macquarie focus.

want for everyone - no exceptions. So join our army of hope and give what you can to see our movement thrive, as it continues to meet the needs of 1 million Aussies every year.”

hose living in the Mid North of a trafficking victim is 12 years old, A21 Coast may not be aware that Campaign works to educate and empower slavery is a worldwide problem students about the plight of trafficking and in 2015. It is estimated by the slavery across the globe, in an effort to keep US Department of State that our children safe. there are at least 27 million Fashioned4Freedom has organised members slaves across the world today - a figure that is from the A21Campaign Sydney team to visit higher than the population of Australia. Many our local area and speak at a number of of these people are innocently caught up schools’ public events, from Wednesday in human trafficking rings across the 6th to Saturday 9th May. world, as a result of kidnapping, Schools include St Columba, false promises of employment, MacKillop College, Camden or whilst travelling abroad. Haven High School, These victims are sold Westport High School, m do ee into labour or sexual Kempsey Public and Fr “Fashioned4 rs be em m d exploitation, losing their Heritage Christian has organise n ig pa m Ca 21 freedom and dignity, School. A from the our t si vi to am te often performing The A21 team will Sydney k at ea sp d an ea ar l work under control or also be speaking at loca ols’ ho sc of r be m nu threats. Grace Church Youth a pu blic events .” The A21 Campaign Group, 6 - 8pm has offices worldwide Wednesday 6th May that work to prevent at Grace Church, Port human trafficking, rescue Macquarie, as well as “The those who have been sold into Lounge” held at Hope Shop, bondage, partner with law enforcement Milton Circuit, Port Macquarie, from and community members, as well as prosecute 5:30pm Thursday 7th May. traffickers. Since its 2008 formation, the Fashioned4Freedom will also be holding a A21 Campaign has seen over 30 traffickers Garage Sale and Cake Stall at Woolworths, prosecuted by its dedicated team of lawyers. Lake Cathie on Saturday 9th May. In Australia, many young Australians will If you would like to support embark on “gap year” travels to places Fashioned4Freedom and the A21 Campaign, like Asia and Europe - both trafficking hot you can contact Kate Hutten on 0418 861 487 spots. Due to the fact that the average age or katehutten@gmail.com.

focusinterview.

B IG

More Like A Luxury 5-Star Resort Than A Retirement Village

i ivana. The “Big Dig” is in its fourth year this year, and raises funds for the Rotary Club of Port Macquarie. How does Rotary use the funds raised to benefit the community? Initially, the Big Dig (treasure hunt on Town Beach) was created to add value to our community and place by hosting a fun, family event. With so many young families in our region, we wanted to increase the wholesome, healthy things for them to do! The event itself is beneficial to the community, as it brings together loads of families and the kids love to dress up, role play in pirate gear, and enjoy pre and post dig games! All activities are supervised, under strict instructions from a lot of pirate wenches, captains and stowaways! The event focuses on family and not on fundraising! Funds that are raised are funnelled to local projects, like on-going restoration of Tacking Point Lighthouse - and doesn’t it look loved now - headspace and our international project, Mera School, Nepal. When and where will the event be held this year? Sunday 17th May, Town Beach - registration from 9am - Big Dog and the Mayor, Peter Besseling, open the event at 10am with a Big Dog dig, followed by a formal dunking of the Mayor and Councillors … yep, the lot! Then we are hoping to hold a mascot race too - Ditto and Harold are meeting as I type! Watch this space! Describe the action that will take place … Ahoy! Pirates, pirates and more pirates commandeer the event. Children register ($5 per child) babies welcome and can be helped in the dig by Mum or Dad. There are four age groups and digs within the 0 - 12 year bracket, followed by the adult big dig ($30 per person) for enormous prizes. All prizes are over the value of the ticket, and every digger gets a prize! Everyone is a winner! Each digger is tagged on registration and when called, digs for a token. Upon retrieval of the token from the beach, they take their token (all

of them run!) to the treasure tent, get untagged, and claim their prize! It’s that simple! Meanwhile, alpha pirate food such as cup cakes and fairy bread will be sold, along with a delicicous all day breakfast and coffee! There’s a pirate jumping castle, pirate games supervised by not so professional, but reformed pirates and wenches. Introduction of new games - paint the pirate (blindfolded) walk the plank etc. will be extremley popular! We welcome Life Education’s participation in 2015, with Healthy Harold, Bravehearts with Ditto and of course, our fav local hero - NBN’s Big Dog … so much action! I believe some well-known locals may be getting a bit wet again this year. Tell us more about this ... Dunking of the Mayor and Councillors last year was very exciting and entertaining, and this year promises to be even better! Sunrise Rotary invented its very own pirate dunking machine, and it really does a great job of 100% drenching! The cold weather adds to the thrill! Then the dunking is open to the public … and they go wild! Who are this year’s major supporters/ sponsors? So thankful to our generous community and to the businesses that always give! Major sponsor: Port City Bowls Minor sponsors: • Greenmeadows Health Centre • Northcorp Accountants • Stihl Shop Peter’s Mower Service • Big W Special mention to big prize givers: Saltwater Wine; Centre of Gravity; Peak Coffee; Drury Land Coffee; Classic Coffee; Curvey Queens Closet; Lovely Locks; Serenity Beauty; Port City Bowls; Eather Recruitment and many, many more! How do people register for the event, and what costs are involved? Be at Town Beach from 9am to register: $5 per child per dig. It is $30 per adult big dig. Digs commence with 0 - 3 age group at 11am. Pirates rule! Thanks Ivana. Interview by Jo Atkins.

EDGE11241

AHOY THERE, FOCUS READERS … CAST YOUR EYE OVER THIS INTERVIEW WITH IVANA AGAPIOU, WHO GIVES US THE FINER DETAILS OF THIS YEAR’S BIG DIG EVENT ON MAY 17 - FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY, ESPECIALLY THE KIDDIES, WITH A TREASURE HUNT THAT WILL PROVIDE A BOUNTY OF LOOT, WHILE RAISING FUNDS FOR THE ROTARY CLUB OF PORT MACQUARIE …

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focus_business.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce

Hadyn Oriti.

MINDING YOUR

business ACCORDING TO THE AUSTRALIAN BUREAU OF STATISTICS, 62.5% OF THE AUSTRALIAN POPULATION LIVE IN SYDNEY, MELBOURNE, BRISBANE, PERTH AND ADELAIDE.

ust to understand the There are over 30 private and public schools significance of this, in a in the local government area. country with a land mass Tertiary education is set to boom, with an the size of Australia, we influx of students set to take advantage of the have nearly two thirds of the new university campus opening in 2016 and population squeezed into five two other universities providing key courses for very large metropolises on world terms. our young people. Sydney rivals Berlin and surpasses Rome in A new $110 million 75 hectare industrial terms of population. Melbourne is in a similar estate with direct easy access to the Pacific position and exceeds Montreal. Highway is about to open. Why do we as Australians seem to There is huge capacity for residential land congregate around the five key cities on the development, with zoning for over 10,000 edge of a bountiful continent? The new residential dwellings already answer, it seems, is historical. in place. But the driving reason now The upgrade to the Port ie ar qu ac is jobs and opportunities. M Macquarie Hospital has rt Po th Governments have Airport is the fif provided this region with airport over many years a world class medical largest regional al es , W h sought to diversify in New Sout facility that cements r ge ssen with 232, 314 pa government services Port Macquarie’s place , ar ye movements per with a view to locating as the regional health e ad gr up and the recent certain departments to centre. ow gr to is permits th in the regions. There The icing on the cake 450,000.” is, however, a role for is that the median house communities to play in sale price for Port Macquarie diversification, and I’m pleased is $380,000 compared to to say that the Port Macquarie$760,000 in the Sydney region. Hastings Council has embarked upon So if business has access to a wellits own initiatives to attract business trained and educated population with and people. The Council published an lifestyle, health infrastructure, transport investment prospectus for business, giving infrastructure and land at half the value of numerous reasons for doing business here. Sydney whilst being digitally connected, what Being able to attract business to this region is stopping business from moving here? The is critical to ensuring that people see that answer may well be that there are not enough there is an opportunity for themselves beyond businesses who know of all of the attributes enjoyment of our lifestyle and climate on and opportunities Port Macquarie has on offer. holidays or in retirement. Port Macquarie is no longer just a retirement Some key figures that businesses may be village. According to the prospectus, the interested in include: biggest increase in our population is those Port Macquarie Airport is the fifth largest aged between 35 and 49 with young families. regional airport in New South Wales, with With the university set to fill the 232,314 passenger movements per year, and demographic hole in the 18 to 24 cohort, Port the recent upgrade permits this to grow to Macquarie is changing, changing for the better, 450,000. and is a great place to do business.

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greater port macquarie focus.

GETTING REAL WITH DAVID PLEWS! Hello and welcome to May. buyer should be sending strong signals back As I write this, my wife and I are preparing to to the vendor that they are committed to fly to Turkey to attend the 100th anniversary of purchasing the home. One of the strongest the Gallipoli landings at ANZAC Cove on April signals you can send at this point of the 25. It’s a trip of a lifetime and we consider process is to order a pest/building report ourselves very privileged and lucky to be immediately. This earns excellent goodwill with among the 7,000 Australians in attendance. the vendor and may just protect you should Speaking of luck, some buyers might have another buyer be waiting to pounce. considered themselves unlucky to We are currently experiencing all of miss out on properties in the this in the marketplace at the $300,000-$550,000 price moment. My advice to buyers bracket, especially standis to be prepared with your David alone homes. We are finance and be willing Plews finding that demand is so to act quickly, vigorous 97% Appraisal high that many properties and confidently. This will ” . Accuracy are receiving multiple offers increase your luck in the from prospective buyers. process and send the vendor Should this happen, it’s the signals that you are serious job of the agent to qualify the buyer. strength of the buyers and advise While I’m away I would like to our vendors. No buyer should be offended thank the rest of the First National team for by this process – the agent is just doing their managing my properties. That’s the benefit of due diligence, nothing else! having a team in real estate – I can travel easy All buyers should have their finance (if knowing that my properties are in safe hands. required) in place before they start placing Until next month. This article has been prepared in good faith with due care by David offers. Otherwise you increase the risk of being Plews. No representation or warranty is made as to the accuracy of gazumped by a better-prepared buyer who is information contained in this article and readers should make and ready to pounce on a property. rely on their own enquiries as to the correctness of such information. enquiries as to the correctness of such information. Once an offer and acceptance is obtained, a

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robyn’s

spot

Robyn Butler.

Just completed my column for this month, and ready to send, and boom! Blackout for 40 minutes …“let there be light” and switch on the computer and “blank canvas”… not happy, Jan!

s this column is being compiled just before ANZAC Day and during the awful weather in Sydney and the Newcastle area, my heart goes out to the families of lost loved ones and the devastation of homes. Thank goodness in Australia we don’t cop this sort of weather too often, but when we do the heavens make a decent job of it. What would we do without the SES volunteers, Red Cross workers, paramedics, firemen, police and other organisations who come to our rescue in times of adversity … special people! SNIPPETS 1. ART EXIBITION AT THE SEA RESCUE SHED Ninety three year old Patrick Yates of Port Macquarie is exhibiting his paintings of boats and the like at the Sea Rescue Shed (next door to Westport Bowlo) on the 16th May until the 22nd May 2015, between the hours of 9am and 4pm. Pat is kindly donating 50% of his takings to the Sea Rescue. Free entry and all paintings for sale … He is one unique “gentle” man. 2. CONGRATULATIONS to Jim Matsinos on the beaut artwork on the Biopak art series cups … His design is on the 16 oz double wall coffee cups - non toxic, non harmful and with no negative effects on the natural environment throughout their lives and available from local boy, Stewart Clarke at Doppio or Nothing Expresso and other outlets throughout the country. Many will remember Jim as their art teacher at Port High or through his magic singing voice … For more details on Stuey and his yummy coffee and chocolate coffee beans, call 0402 087 970 or look up his website to read about his wholesale business and booking him for functions. 3. HEALTHY TREAT … AJITAS Vege Chips have been around for a while but after looking at the pack, I decided to give them my tick

of approval. Many young mums are buying them as an alternative to ordinary chips. MADE IN AUSTRALIA … gluten free, no nasties, no enhancers, nut free, egg free and cooked in sunflower oil. Once again, when something is healthy, it isn’t cheap. 100 grams is about three or four dollars ... 4. PORT GOURMET PIES - when you hear so many good things about a new business in town, you have to try it and then give them a plug if warranted. Well, I tried just one of their plain pies and fair dinkum - it fed two of us. Mind you, it was $6, but all filling. You can purchase (or order) surf and turf pies, apricot chicken, smoked chicken, bacon and blue cheese, lambs fry and bacon, banana and caramel, and the list goes on. Family business, all cooking done on the premises, and I truly wish them well. Situated in the Growers Market Complex (next door to the chicken shop). Phone 6584 7836. 5. SUNDAY ARVO MUSIC AT PANTHERS With winter approaching and more indoor activities the norm, Panthers are having great entertainment on a Sunday afternoon from 2pm out on Pier One. FREE … Different artists each week. If the public supports this, it will continue, I’m sure. So much talent in this area. 6. MOTHER’S DAY Wanted to wish all the wonderful mums, nannas and omas the happiest Mother’s Day. My son, Martin, sent me a card last year that I want to share with you … On the front it read, “GOOD MOTHERS LET YOU LICK THE BEATER”; inside: “BETTER MUMS TURN IT OFF FIRST!” Hope you are smiling. The story about the exserviceman with his ANZAC medals business will be in next month’s column; sorry about that slight hitch. Keep smiling, Robbie x greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus.

FINANCE EXPERTS FEATURE

focus

Finance f e a t u r e

BUILDHeading WEALTHHere! WITH PROPERTY Your Building wealth through property is all about mindset - if you have the desire to give it a go, then you will find it is not as hard as it first seemed, and it can bring a strong sense of achievement and wealth creation. Residential property in Australia has consistently returned in excess of 8 per cent capital growth per annum over the long term.

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Finance f e a t u r e

So here are some tips to help you get started. • Its important to understand your “why” - the reason you want financial success and your time frame; • Begin with the end in mind so set clear goals; • Don’t reinvent the wheel; follow an experienced person; • Reduce the risk by accessing proven professionals and processes to help you succeed. Once you know your why, you then need a plan. Building wealth is like building a house; lay the foundation and work from there. Set clear goals, review them and understand where you want to head. Whether you’re looking to take your ﬁrst step into the property investment sphere or looking to grow your existing portfolio, a Smarter Property investment adviser will be with you to every step of the way to implement a purchase, regularly revisit your plan to ensure you are maintaining momentum towards a better ﬁnancial future. Remember when starting out: Play it safe - don't over expose yourself by placing all your principal at risk; get help from an experienced independent property advisor and you will be moving towards your goal. Let our Smarter professionals show you how.

greater port macquarie focus. 79

focus

Finance f e a t u r e

BUSINESS FINANCE ALTERNATIVES Your Heading Here! The Port Macquarie economy is dominated by small business. However, access to finance remains a significant concern for many small businesses. Research by the NSW Business Chamber indicates that around 30% of small businesses felt that they had missed an opportunity due to a lack of credit and 55% of felt that rejection for a loan significantly constrained their growth. Exacerbated by a complex regulatory environment, these results suggest that a lack of finance not only constrains small business innovation but it can force smaller firms to layoff staff or worse, lead to a bankruptcy.

It might appear easier and there can be discounts with your existing lender, but you may find a cheaper option with more flexible terms elsewhere. At Longview Solutions, we research the best finance options for you, which may not be the obvious one. This is where we go beyond what your bank can offer.

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For example, we have introduced local businesses to a range of alternative business and equipment financiers, who are not otherwise represented in the Port Macquarie market. These alternative financiers range from government entities through to private lenders.

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Focus on your business and growth, let us do the research and obtain the finance you need for you. Call Longview Solutions today.

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*WARNING: This comparison rate is true only for the examples given and may not include all fees and charges. Lending criteria, Terms and Conditions fees and charges apply and are available on request. Lending product is issued by Holiday Coast Credit Union Ltd. Comparison rates are calculated on a loan amount of $30,000 over a term of 5 years based on monthly repayments. Applications for finance are subject to Holiday Coastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s normal credit approval. Full terms and conditions and interest rates will be included in our loan offer. Further details on our loan products, current interest rates, and fees and charges are available from any branch, by visiting our website at www.hccu.com.au, or by phoning 1300 365 7 24. Holiday Coast Credit Union reserves the right to change terms and conditions at any time. Holiday Coast Credit Union Ltd. ABN 64 087 650 164. AFSL and Australian Credit License 240782. Registered Office: 1 Commerce Street Wauchope, NSW.

Joanne Hawkins Port Macquarie

David Roberts PM Industrial

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Rachel Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Neil Laurieton

We can assist you with: 3 Personal Budgets 3 Savings Strategies

3 Managing Debt 3 Simplifying Accounts 3 Digital Banking Technology

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119,788.76DR 119,423.37DR

964.30

119,423.37 753.85 Funds Transfer to credit card

116,226.22DR

1,297.73 Deposit

856.74

111,731.13DR 112,713.08DR

01 May 2014

$20,340.45

7,256.18

Reimbursement

DEPOSIT

106.06

59.91 1,251.52

102,646.87DR

1,497.44

$20,340.45 *Note redraw to pay out credit card debt made this month of $5,387.27

The above is an example of an average client, however we have some real clients paying up to $10,000.00 off their mortgages in a single month.If you would like to make an appointment for a consultation please feel free to contact us.

greater port macquariefocus focus greater port macquarie . 67 82

focustourism.

Port Macquarie Tourism Association

Tou ris m

janette hyde. The Wauchope Centenary of Rail Festival was celebrated in April - what a great event!

he Rail Motor was a great experience, the re-enactment ceremony was fantastic, especially to see Dr Simpson and Mrs Dawn Olsen officiating, as they were actually in attendance 50 years ago. The dinner with Tim Fischer as the guest speaker and the cricket match were very well supported and enjoyed by all who attended. Well done, Jeanette Rainbow and your team. Four great events will be happening in the Hastings in May: Ironman time has arrived again, with over 1,500 competitors taking the field on the 3rd May. This event is embraced by our area and offers the opportunity for exposure of our little patch of paradise to the world. Thanks to the many volunteers who commit their time to ensure that competitors really feel welcome. The Women’s Bowls NSW BCiB State Carnival is set to return to Port MacquarieHastings at the end of the month. More than 1,000 competitors are expected to descend on the region. It is the largest event on the WBNSW calendar and celebrates its 86th year. It’s set to be the biggest party of the year at the 2015 Slice of Haven Food and Wine Festival in Laurieton - a feast for all the senses! Slice of Haven is on 24th May; this is not to be missed. Entertainment and great food is the order for the day. It is worth a trip to the Camden Haven for this one. Be part of the Big Band Blast happening 29th to 31st May. One of the highlights of the weekend is PARTY MAMBO with Mucho Mambo & the 3B Horns at Port Macquarie Panthers, Settlement City and starts 8pm. Tickets are on sale now. If you love Big Band music, don’t miss this concert. Weekend drive: looking for something to do at the weekend? Then drive to the western exit of the Pacific and Oxley Highways and pay a visit to Billabong Koala and Wildlife Park. Continue on to Wauchope and make a detour to Cowarra Dam, where the picnic area is

open to the public from 9am to 5pm daily. Return to the Oxley Highway and continue on to the boutique rural township of Wauchope. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Timbertown. After visiting Timbertown, why not take a visit to Bago Winery. Get lost in the largest hedge maze in NSW, with 2,000 metres of pathways, lookout towers and bridges in the Bago Maze. Taste a local drop at the cellar door, that is open 9:30am - 5pm seven days a week. Return to Port Macquarie via the scenic coastal community of Lake Cathie, visiting Long Point Vineyard along the way. ACTIVITIES PLANNED FOR MAY Toyota IRONMAN Australia, Port Macquarie, Sunday 3 May One of the longest running IRONMAN events, competitors will endure a 3.8 kilometre swim, 180 kilometre bike course and 42.2 kilometre run, taking in the best of the Greater Port Macquarie region. www.ironmanaustralia.com Slice of Haven Sunday 24 May, 10am - 4pm The food delight is on the foreshore of the Camden Haven River, Seymour Street, Laurieton, behind the Laurieton United Services Club. www.sliceofhaven.com.au BCiB State Carnival, Monday 25 to Friday 29 May 2015 The Women’s Bowls NSW BCiB State Carnival returns to Port Macquarie-Hastings in 2015. Over 1,000 competitors will take part in the carnival as it celebrates its 86th year. www.womensbowlsnsw.org Big Band Blast Music Festival 2015, Friday 29 May to Sunday 31 May Pack your trumpet or just your dancing shoes and groove to the sounds of New Orleans at the Big Band Blast Festival. www.bigbandblast.com.au greater port macquarie focus. 83

focusinterview.

LIESA davies

P O R T

M A C Q U A R I E - H A S T I N G S

C O U N C I L

Business

iesa, you are the Group Manager Economic Development with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. Can you please give us some insight into what your current role involves? I lead a small team who works with our community to deliver projects that help create the right environment for business growth and add economic value to our region. Our work centres around delivering specific projects detailed in our 2013-2016 Economic Development Strategy - investment attraction, support to major events, tourism marketing and destination management. We also work with key local industries, provide local economic data and help local businesses connect with other government or industry bodies and more. What is the most rewarding part about your role? It would have to be connecting people, issues and working on solutions. My team is often an early point of contact for businesses which are looking for information or advice or are faced with a challenge. It's very rewarding to be able to work with them (and our broad range of stakeholders within Council, other Government bodies, our local business networks etc.) towards a sustainable solution. Often, as much as we would like to, we don't have the answer up front, but we can certainly see what we can do to try and identify, develop, or advocate for a solution. And what are some of the biggest challenges you face within your role? The biggest immediate challenge is changing the “Council is difficult to work with” perception - we need and are working on a far more solutions-focused culture. This is a top priority for us. Naturally, working in a field that involves regulation, there are hurdles and moments of frustration but we stay focused

greater port macquarie focus.

on the fact that a focus on solutions and continuous improvement will add up to a significant path in the right direction over time. In a strategic sense, the biggest challenge is sustaining the current levels of confidence we are seeing locally. Acknowledging that while it’s not all smooth sailing for all businesses, broadly speaking there is a lot of local economic activity at the moment - big ticket investment and a good upturn in the construction industry is flowing on to positive sentiment in other industry sectors. Our local business confidence survey has seen a sustained increase in net local trading conditions over the past 18 months, which is great! Even better is the fact that these conditions are significantly higher than the national average. Our biggest challenge is to maintain that momentum over the long term and translate that into local jobs and industry growth that will support our local economy longer term. One of the projects you are working on at the moment is developing a digital strategy which focuses on better mobile coverage and internet access, identifies the need for better understanding of existing digital technology and recognition of the gaps in availability and access to technology. Can you tell us more about this initiative? Council's Economic Development Steering Group (which is made up of Councillors, staff and local business representatives) identified a strong need for Council to do what it can to ensure local business and industry have the right telecommunications infrastructure to support their daily operations and growth. Clearly local government does not have a direct role to play in this space, but what we can do is advocate for infrastructure investment and work to help local business overcome the things they see as barriers to optimising their use of technology. Like most

“

turally, working

Na of our projects, input businesses who invest in lves a field that invo s le rd hu from local business such activities suggests e ar e er regulation, th stration fru of has been critical they often benefit ts en om and m sed on in the strategy's just as much from the but we stay focu s on cu the fact that a fo inuous development. conversations and nt solutions and co The Port Macquarie connections formed to up d ad ill improvement w right e th Chamber of with others in the in th pa t a significan e.” tim Commerce is hosting room, as they do from er ov n io direct an event on 27 May; the event programme. the Digital Marketing It might be from talking Day Out. This event aims to about common challenges and empower businesses situated discovering other approaches, right on the Mid North Coast to consider through to a conversation which leads how Digital Marketing tools could to a business alliance that can help multiple contribute to the growth of their businesses work together as a value add to all business. Can you tell us a bit more about their customers. this event and how your team are to be What would you class as your biggest involved? career achievement to date? Yes, it's great to support this event as a Crossing the divide between the public sponsor. It brings some outstanding speakers and private sectors several times, and people and knowledge to our region to help local are still talking to me! Perhaps to say this is business better understand and make use of an “achievement” is overstating, but it has the range of digital marketing options that definitely been something that has enabled are now available. Digital marketing plays a me to grow enormously. I have done this a key role in the work my team does to market couple of times now, noting my work in federal our beautiful place to visitors - it's a whole and local government, in retail, education, new world to traditional media, but I love that manufacturing and for the Port Chamber and it provides significant data to help measure enjoy working on “both sides of the fence”. campaign performance, which helps us Each has their challenges, but I would definitely continually improve what we do. I'd encourage say I do love that my current role enables me to any local business who has or hasn't dipped work with so many passionate locals who are their toe in the digital marketing space to in business and helping to keep our economy attend - the event offers great value. humming. Why do you think it’s important that And finally, if you could invite three businesses invest in attending events such business people to lunch, who would they as the Digital Marketing Day Out? be and why would you invite them? Obviously events like these are a great forum I'd say find me three locals who are in which you can learn from experts in their passionate about our region, their business and field and some prominent business owners customers and surprise me! I love to discover who have successfully grown their business. the great local stories - we can be inspired and It’s also an opportunity to connect with other learn so much from those right here in our own local business owners who may be able to magnificent backyard! collaborate with you. Feedback from many local Thanks Liesa.

Exclusive To Your Property PROPERTY SHOWCASE BOOKLET 12 Page Printed Booklet Now Included Within Our Fee WELCOME

MODERN OPEN SPACE

INNES PENINSULA

On behalf of our vendors and Patterson Real Estate we’d like to welcome you to our listed property.

The Innes Peninsula is a combination of surrounding estates and subdivisions within the area consisting of Annabella Downs, Monarch Estate, Oxley Park, Oxley Grove, Innes Lake Estate, Brierley Hill and Mill Hill Estates with a few more still under construction.

We conduct our inspections in a way that is non-intrusive, to allow you, as buyers, to take your time to look in detail without being pestered by an agent.

The area was named after the first title owner of the peninsula Captain Archibald Clunes Innes. After his previous appointment of Commander of Port Macquarie, Captain Innes returned in 1830 settling on the 2,560 acres building a stately mansion incorporating working farmland, which was awarded contracts to supply the surrounding convict population with food. The ruins of the homestead remain today.

When you are ready feel free to approach our team with any questions. We’re here to assist you. If you are interested in the home please register your interest with us, or if you would like a copy of the sale contract we can email you a copy today.

These days the Innes Peninsula is Port Macquarie’s growth centre and one of the areas most popular and sought after positions. It’s a desirable family friendly housing area with plenty of natural beauty including untouched bushland all within 6km from the central business district and beaches.

It is important to note that we are currently running at 95% clearance rate for the last 12 months. So it is imperative that you inform us of your interest to allow us to keep you constantly informed of the progress of the sale so you don’t miss out. The easiest way to do this is to subscribe to our text notifications - see below for more details and happy viewing! PURCHASING DETAILS AUCTION 2 pm, Saturday 18th October Onsite

CONTACT Michael Whiting 0401 434 892

AROUND CURRAWONG

Watson McNamara & Watt 156 Beardy Street Armidale NSW 2350 p: 02 6772 5244 f: 02 6772 6676

TOWN CENTRE: • Sovereign Hills - 5.1 km • Port Macquarie - 6.1 km

35 days from exchange

p: 02 6584 6400 e: info@pattersonrealestate.com.au w: pattersonrealestate.com.au

Whatever you’re looking for the Innes Peninsula is sure to have something special to offer.

SOLICITOR

SETTLEMENT PERIOD

Patterson Real Estate

The area now boasts a Coles Supermarket along with a variety of speciality shops and will soon be home to the new Charles Sturt University campus.

SUBSCRIBE NOW To receive updated notifications on this property sms 14CURR and your name to 0407 009 226 and we will automatically update you on the marketing and progress

SCHOOLS: • St Columba Anglican School - 1.3 km • St Joseph’s Regional College - 5.2 km • Universities - 1.8 km BEACHES: • Town Beach - 7.4 km • Flynns Beach - 7.6 km • Shelly Beach - 8.8 km TRANSPORT: • Busways service routes along The Ruins Way & Major Innes Rd • Port Macquarie airport - 3.3 km

92 CURRAWONG DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE

FLOOR PLANS

FEATURES AT A GLANCE WORDS THAT DESCRIBE THIS PROPERTY

Stunning Functional

Bright

92 CURRAWONG DRIVE, PORT MACQUARIE

Open

Contemporary Spacious

FEATURES AT A GLANCE

WHY ARE THEY MOVING?

If style, serenity, comfort, privacy and affordability are on your list of “must haves” and large living areas are on the “should have” list – this is the home for you.

The current owners are regretfully moving due to a work opportunity as well as being closer to their family for some help raising their twin boys. The owners are truly sad to leave the property as it has been their dream home. They would take it to Canberra with them if they could !

From the moment you step inside you will just know this is the perfect family home. Beautiful polished timber floors greet you upon entry and from there this home flows and captures so much natural light. A beautifully appointed master bedroom, offers large walk in robe and ensuite. The remaining three bedrooms are over sized with large built-ins.

bed rooms

bath rooms

car parking

The open plan design offers unlimited options for entertaining with multiple living areas flowing to great outdoor entertaining areas over looking established grounds.

619 m² land

A SIMPLE STATEMENT OF STYLE

ITEM LOCATIONS • Hotwater system - South external wall • Telephone ports - Study nook • Water Tank - South/West corner

PROPERTY DETAILS ADDRESS:

WHAT THEY LOVE ABOUT THE PROPERTY (FROM THE OWNER)

92 Currawong Drive Port Macquarie NSW 2444

• The new contemporary modern feel the property offers. The house has always given us a sense of homeliness and comfortable character.

PRICE:

• The overall sense of space combined with vivid array of natural light saturating the living areas. • The awesome north facing partially covered entertaining area which flows perfectly from the kitchen and living areas of the property.

AUCTION DETAILS: 4 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms 2 Car Garage RATES: $2,260 pa*

NEIGHBOURS The property is fully fenced on all sides. We are lucky to have such great neighbours both have been long term and the original owners, very friendly and always approachable.

AREA: Land - 619 m2* House - 198 m2* Garage - 35 m2* * Approximately

Disclaimer: We assume no responsibility for mis-statement, omission or error contained in this document. Interested persons should rely on their own enquiries.

AGENT: Michael Whiting 0401 434 892

Patterson’s All Inclusive Marketing PROPERTY INCLUSIONS ENTRY

MAIN BEDROOM

LAUNDRY

6 STEPS TO BUYING A HOUSE

• • • •

• • • • • •

• Stainless steel wash tub with taps • Fixed storage cupboards with bench • External access door to drying area

Purchasing residential real estate can be a very exciting process, however it can also be a confusing time for the prospective buyer. As you may already be aware, different agencies usually have different sets of rules and standards, so we would like to inform you of the general buying process.

Feature timber decked front porch Wide timber entry door with glass inlay Polished hardwood timber flooring Display nook with feature lighting

LOUNGE / MEDIA • Ample natural light • Built in feature entertaining unit with hardwood facade • Quality carpet throughout • Fitted venetian blinds • Direct access to alfresco area

Spacious ensuite Bright large windows Quality carpet throughout Fitted venetian blinds Walk in wardrobe with shelving Ceiling fan with multiple speeds

ENSUITE • Single vanity with mirror • Shower with feature tile inlay • Hand held shower head • Toilet within ensuite

GARAGE • • • •

Double garage with storage Automatic garage panel door Television point and mount to wall Cladded and painted finish

HOT WATER SYSTEM • Solar electric 325 litre (outside)

FAMILY / DINING

BEDROOM 2, 3, 4

RESIDENCE CONSTRUCTION

• Polished hardwood timber flooring • Daikin reverse cycle split system air-conditioning with remote • Huge amount of natural light • Fitted venetian blinds • Direct access to alfresco area

• Quality carpet throughout • Generous sized rooms • Built-in wardrobes • Fitted venetian blinds

• • • • • • • •

KITCHEN • Caesarstone kitchen bench tops • Large walk-in pantry with loads of storage • Stainless steel wall mounted oven - electric • Fitted glass cooktop • Slide out rangehood • Stainless steel finish dishwasher • Double sink with commercial mixer • Polished hardwood timber flooring • Glass sliding door access to entertaining area EXCLUSIONS • All non fixed furnishings • Twin cots in 3rd bedroom

MAIN BATHROOM • • • • • • •

Long vanity with mirror Tiled shower Hand held shower head Bath with feature tile hub Separate toilet Heat light fan unit Fitted venetian blinds

Brick veneer construction Bagged painted cosmetic finish Tiled pitched roof Concrete slab flooring construction Colorbond guttering and fascia Exposed aggregate concrete driveway Side access with timber gates Timber fencing

EXTERNAL DOORS & WINDOWS • Timber doors with glass panels • Aluminium powder coated glass windows and sliding doors

STUDY NOOK

LANDSCAPING

• • • • •

• Timber edged garden beds • White limestone gardens • Timber panelling gates and partitions • 5,000L water tank with electric pump

Fixed solid timber study desk Feature timber storage shelving Polished hardwood timber flooring Fitted venetian blinds Phone inlet point

ALFRESCO ENTERTAINING • • • • • •

Partly covered North facing entertaining area Large paver tile flooring Timber privacy partitions External power point to wall Open and bright feel

POWER, VISION & PHONE • Telephone point located at study nook • TV antenna mounted to the roof • Foxtel dish mounted to the roof * • TV points to lounge, living, master bedroom and garage • 240 volt domestic power

Property owners receive all types of interest - some genuine, some not. Some people submit offers to test the possibility of sale, but do not actually stay true with their offer. This can lead to frustration and concern for the owners as they try to assess who is actually a genuine buyer. The best way to present a strong offer on any property is to follow the steps below that allow you to understand what is required in preparation to put forward your strongest purchasing proposition to the agent. All offers must be presented to the owner in writing and all purchase details correct for filling in the contract for signing. STEP 1 - PROVIDE AGENT WITH YOUR FULL DETAILS SUCH AS • Full names of all parties that will appear on the contract • The actual purchase price you will be paying for the property. • The method by which you choose to pay the 10% deposit. eg. cheque/bond/other. • The settlement period that you require or the vendor has stipulated. • The name of your chosen Solicitor or Conveyancer. • The name of your bank or financial lending institution. • Any special conditions or requests that you may have so that we can inform the vendor (property owner) STEP 2 - CONFIRM YOUR TIME FRAME AVAILABLE TO DO ANY INVESTIGATIONS Find out if the property has a deadline on it, such as auction or other offers from interested parties. STEP 3 - DECIDE IF YOU ARE GOING TO OBTAIN A PEST & BUILDING INSPECTION Before you purchase any property - in particular a new home - it is important that you commission a copy of a Pest and Building Report from qualified inspectors. Please note that

• Professional photography of your property

SURROUNDING SALES EVIDENCE

PURCHASING STEPS this report is a complete list of defects of the home, and is very different from the feature brochure that you receive from our agency. Many people can be shocked with the report they receive on the home, and most times misinterpret the report, e.g. the home is 34 years old and is in need of new roof tiles. Roof tiles last approximately 35 years and need replacing on every home of that age. The point to remember here is that all homes at one time or another require maintenance, and that this is known as a capital improvement. The main aim should be to ascertain that the property is structurally sound and free from pests such as termites. STEP 4 - NOTIFY YOUR BANK OF YOUR PURCHASE ADDRESS & DETAILS A pre-approval of finance from your bank or lending institution needs to be in place before safely proceeding with your property purchase, however many banks will approve you in principle yet may require a valuation. Don’t be alarmed if your bank or lending institution request a valuation by a registered property valuer. This is normal practice of lending institutions, and serves as confirmation of the agreed sale price. If you are intending to buy at auction, all the above-mentioned must be in place. Auction day is final. If you turn up to bid and you are the highest bidder past the reserve price (on-the-market price) you are the instant owner awaiting settlement of the property.

BEDS

BATHS

CARS

SIZE

SOLD PRICE

17 Currawong Drive

Jun 14

730 m2

$460,000

12 Currawong Drive

ADDRESS

SOLD DATE May 14

608 m2

$460,000

17 Jabiru Way

May 14

704 m2

$510,000

40 Currawong Drive

Mar 14

615 m2

$487,500

51 Currawong Drive

Nov 13

710 m2

$579,000

56 Currawong Drive

Nov 13

613 m

$502,000

STEP 5 - DON’T FORGET TO INCLUDE STAMP DUTY FUNDS IN YOUR FINAL CALCULATIONS A stamp duty chart is available from our office or our website STEP 6 - MEET WITH THE AGENT AND PROVIDE ALL DETAILS FOR SIGN OFF WITH THE OWNER Once agreement on price, settlement, conditions, etc has been reached with the vendor the sale can proceed. An exchange of contracts is the only way to actually buy or sell real estate. This is achieved by signing the contract of sale which is then processed by the agent with all legal parties. Your agent can explain the two options for exchanging contracts (Securing the sale)

• Inclusion in the monthly Patterson Magazine • Exclusive 12 page “Showcase Booklet“ • Advertising in the Domain Property Guide • Listing on all major & minor websites

NOTES

•

IN SUMMARY Preparation is the key. Understand the steps of sale and having everything in place is imperative to reaching your property goals. Whether you are considering purchasing this property or another in the near future and in need of advice, please feel free to contact Jason, Rex or any of our team with questions that you may have. We are available to assist you 7 days.

• Detailed floor plan of your property

AGENT: Michael Whiting 0401 434 892

* Foxtel dish remains property of Foxtel

•

NO UP FRONT COSTS TO SELL..

ALL INCLUSIVE..

We are pleased to now include our 12 page professionally printed property “Showcase Booklet” for each listed property in our famous all in one selling fee. Now it’s better value then ever to list your home with Patterson Real Estate

EXPERIENCE TRUE MARKETING WITH PATTERSON REAL ESTATE!

Trusted Brand, New Direction

6584 6400

pattersonrealestate.com.au greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

PEN CARROL D I G I T A L

M A R K E T I N G

D A Y

O U T

The Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce and NSW Business Chamber are proudly presenting the Digital Marketing Day Out on Wednesday 27 May at the Glasshouse. We talk to one of our event’s Keynote Speakers, Marketing Manager of Birdsnest, Pen Carrol, about how digital marketing has transformed Birdsnest from a regionally based retail store into an international operation.

his not-to-be-missed event will educate and empower small business owners and operators with ideas, knowledge and practical advice as to how they can use digital marketing to grow their businesses. Pen, can you tell us a little bit about Birdsnest and how it grew from a bricks and mortar store in Cooma (population 8,000) to the multi-million dollar online enterprise it is today? I love this story. In fact, it’s a bit of a love story. Jane, our founder, was straight out of uni and happily engrossed in the corporate world of Sydney, when she fell in love with a farmer. They married and moved to a property 70 km south of Cooma. Jane bought a local boutique in Cooma in 2004 and by 2008 had taken it online as birdsnest.com.au. It was smack in the middle of the GFC, and many people thought Jane was a bit nuts. They said, “You’ll never be able to sell jeans and dresses online; women have to try them on.” Jane was fairly passionate about e-commerce from her time at IBM,

greater port macquarie focus.

and she saw a real opportunity. In 2008, neither of Australia’s biggest department stores had an online presence, and many other big brands were lagging behind the rest of the world. So Jane took her Powerpoint presentation to 60 of our top labels and convinced them to let her take them online. We became the first retailer in Australia to sell brands such as Esprit and Jag online. From a team of three or four packing parcels in an old gambling den under the shop floor, birdsnest has today grown to over 100 birds in our team and a warehouse and office space of approximately 3,700 square metres. What hesitations, if any, did you have about using digital marketing? Our background was more in traditional marketing, so entering the world of digitally integrated marketing definitely had its challenges. It still does. The landscape is continuously changing - and at a rapid pace. One of the great things about digital marketing is that the results are measurable. With traditional marketing there is that old saying that “I know 50% of my marketing is

working; I’m just not sure which 50%.” With digital marketing, it is much easier to gauge the success of a campaign or initiative and for that reason we have had the freedom to try lots of different channels. What digital marketing activity do you feel has been particularly helpful to growing your online business? I think it’s safe to say Google plays a major role in most digital strategies, and it has been no different for us. Adwords has been particularly helpful in our growth. Starting out, no one knew who birdsnest was and today we’re still not quite a household name, so we rely on new customers finding us via search. How do you think businesses could benefit from investing in an event such as the Digital Marketing Day Out? When I go to days such as the Digital Marketing Day Out, we always talk about finding the one percenters. I find that there is always something new I can take away and adapt to our marketing strategy. It’s also a great opportunity to talk to like-minded people and share your experiences.

birdsnest digital scoreboard Facebook: 90,541 Instagram: 8,541 Pinterest: 2,529 Twitter: 1,723 Email database: 160,000 Website hits per day: Approx. 20,000 Annual turnover: $20M

focus_media.

Jane Hillsdon, Principal Consultant of Dragonfly Marketing

focusrealestate

Confessions of a Social Dragonfly What makes content "go viral"? Something very exciting happened to a Facebook page that I manage recently. I posted what I knew to be an interesting post that people would engage with at a carefully selected time of day. I then watched with interest, which soon turned to wonderment, which then accelerated to a bit of fist-pumping excitement as I witnessed this post "going viral"! The scoreboard (reached in under 24 hours): Post Likes: 1,026 Shares: 406 Comments: 96 Page Likes as a result of Post Engagement: 48 Investment: $0

familiar - with hot pink font. What’s not to like? 4. Past Affinity: We have maintained a really active presence on this Facebook page for well over 12 months now, which has built an affinity with our community. Our posts are

For a regional Facebook page, that post is what we here at DFM headquarters term as a winner!

regular and our followers often engage well

So what can we learn from the success of that post?

when we publish content, Facebook will deem

1. Content: The post was a perfect example of sharing and contributing to a community, rather than selling to them.

our community.

2. Timing: The post was published at a time I knew people were online (as I regularly refer to the page's insights) so it was more likely to gain immediate engagement. 3. Image: Engaging, relevant, comforting and

with our posts, which helps to ensure that it important enough to push these posts out to

There's an art to making an impact on Facebook. It's easy for some brands, and it's hard work for others. This post definitely performed better than we had first anticipated; however, the fundamentals were laid to achieve a good level of engagement.

Ask Greg

Greg Trembath answers your real estate questions.

edia reports of record prices and a possible “housing bubble” make me nervous about my own plans to purchase investment property. Have I missed the boat in terms of purchasing in Port Macquarie at a good price? What is your advice? Tony M, Port Macquarie.

industry during the boom years of 2002-2003 with double-digit price growth, it is clear the real estate market arrives at a peak, and then a retreat, before settling again. In Port Macquarie, the current growth rate of approximately 6% is sustainable due to population increase and solid investment in health and education.

My advice at this time for investors is to A. Investors are continuing to flood purchase at a price no greater than into the property market, the median price for the area Tony. ABS data shows NSW in which the property is residential investment loans located. Be cautious but ggest I would su ering up 59%, and it is not only not stifled, as sound id ns owners co uld look at retirees who are looking investment should be selling sho perty onto to property investment planned for your long getting pro to ride this as a way of generating a term benefit. t the marke tivity, as the higher return than bank Equally I would suggest wave of ac as a vendor interest. owners considering od times Port Macquarie is experiencing strong investor interest, as you have probably noticed by the number of times the “SOLD” sign is being quickly followed by a “FOR LEASE” sign.

go t forever. will not las

selling should look at getting property onto the market to ride this wave of activity, as the good times as a

vendor will not last forever. Answers are general comment, and readers should always

The supply and demand forces in place mean if you’re looking to invest at the moment, you’ll need to be prepared to compete for property. Fortunately, local demand for rental housing continues to be strong for a number of reasons.

seek their own independent professional advice.

When I think back to my experience in the

Estate Agent – Licensed Auctioneer.

Send your real estate questions to greg@gregtrembath.com.au Greg Trembath is Principal/Licensee at Greg Trembath Real Estate. Licensed Real

gregtremb th REAL ESTATE

greater port macquarie focus. 87

GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

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QUIET & STYLISH EASY CARE LIVING

“ A STRIKING BLEND OF MATERIALS, TEXTURES, COLOURS AND BEAUTIFULLY LANDSCAPED GARDENS COMPLETE THE PICTURE OF A STYLISH, MODERN RESIDENTIAL DUPLEX, BUILT EXPERTLY BY GEM BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS. MAY FOCUS HOME OF THE MONTH IS FOUND IN THE BUSHLAND SETTING OF LAKE INNES, PORT MACQUARIE.

hrissy Jones had the pleasure of viewing the duplex, which offers two separate, open, free flowing and thoughtfully zoned living spaces - two mirror image homes designed for contemporary comfort. Both compelling and functional in design, these architecturally designed homes offer a magnificent blend of style and family sized comfort. A journey through the residence reveals an interesting architectural experience incorporating modern fittings and finishes, high ceilings, and a light filled void illuminating the entry inviting you in. This abundance of natural light is paired beautifully with the inclusion of

BOTH CO M PE LL IN G NA L A N D FU N CT IO E ES TH , N IG ES IN D A LLY A RC H IT EC TU R ES M O H D ES IG N ED IC EN T IF N G A M A O FF ER LE BL EN D O F ST Y ZE D A N D FA M ILY SI .” CO M FO RT

accentuated, yet subtle LED lighting throughout, which radiates the home in the evening and enriches the beauty of the timber-look vinyl planks underfoot in the living areas. The duplex is a stand out in its streetscape. Its exterior: a modern blend of finishes and textures, including rendered and bare brickwork, James Hardie cladding, metal roofing and guttering, landscaped gardens, concrete drive and pathways. Merbau timber posts flank the timber entry portico that also

has timber slats as a stylish screen at eave height, accentuating each separate entry of the duplex. Upon entering through the opaque glass and timber framed entrance door, you are introduced to a split level home via a light filled foyer. This level has the entry foyer and double garage with internal access and two separate stairways, one down to the living/dining area and the other rises above to the private bedroom spaces.

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A RU ST IC FE EL ED H A S BE EN A D D , CO O N TH E A LF R ES IO N IT D D A E TH H W IT AT U R E O F A TI M BE R FE ER CK A ST D PO ST A N A LL .â&#x20AC;? ST O N E TI LE W

â&#x20AC;&#x153; The ground floor living/dining area is the heart of the home and flows into an open plan living ensemble, from the modern kitchen, incorporating dining and lounge, separate adjoining rumpus, all opening out to and overlooking the rear yard, that melds with the surrounding bushland and outdoor alfresco entertaining area. A generous square island bench divides the well appointed kitchen from the dining, has white bench-tops encased in grey kick panels and storage cupboards both sides, incorporating soft close drawers and shelving. The custom-built kitchen is horseshoe shaped, wrapping around the island and provides a

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place for all the mod cons, including an in bench glass hotplate, wall oven and stainless steel dishwasher, as well as a double sink with flick mixer. Vertical timber-look tiling acts as a splash back in the cooking work area; a corner pantry, microwave nook and overhead cabinetry provide plenty of storage for all home cooking needs. Conveniently placed alongside the kitchen,

in its own custom-built nook, a computer desk with overhead soft close shelving is complete with all computer and internet hook-ups installed ready to go. The dining and family lounge is spacious and incorporates both the indoors and outdoors superbly by adjoining the kitchen and outdoor alfresco. A bank of panel windows with louvres either side to allow for directional airflow, along with highlight windows above, allow in plenty of natural light and unimpeded views to the surrounding bushland and rear yard. Roller blinds have been installed on all windows

throughout the home, to add a touch of privacy if desired. Three glass sliding stack doors open to the outdoor, alfresco area - all combine seamlessly. A rustic feel has been added on the alfresco, with the addition of a timber feature post and stacker stone tile wall. With a ceiling fan and downlighting, the BBQ area, with its luxury polished concrete tiling, has an additional custom window to allow adequate cross-flow in the undercover area whilst barbecuing and is an ideal spot to entertain family and friends in a relaxed setting. Completing the living area is a multipurpose room, depending on your individual tastes and

focusabode.

QUIET & STYLISH EASY CARE LIVING

which can be tailored to your family’s needs (be it a formal lounge, rumpus room or guest bedroom) tucked away behind a wooden cavity sliding door. Fully carpeted, this room is very comfortable and overlooks the alfresco and rear yard. Well laid out, the laundry has a deep stainless steel laundry tub incorporated into storage cabinetry and plenty of bench space. The laundry is centrally located on the ground floor and has its own access to the side yard and drying area. A concrete pathway leads from the laundry all the way around the home, allowing for all weather access to most areas of the home and timber fenced and gated yard. The upper level, reached via carpeted stairs, has three good size bedrooms, linen and storage hallway cupboards, a functional family bathroom with a deep, oval bath and separate shower cubicle that has a grey tile feature wall and a separate WC, all incorporated into a curved floor plan. Two bedrooms are fully carpeted, have ceiling fans, down lights, wide horizontal panel windows with roller blinds and mirror fronted, double built-in robes. The relaxing master bedroom has its own en-suite, walk-in robe, and being placed at the rear of the duplex, has its own bushland views. Nestled in a tranquil leafy setting on a quiet street and conveniently located near Lake Innes Village Shopping Centre, schools, the Base Hospital and only 10 minutes to the centre of town, these homes are the perfect balance of style and modern design standing proud in their surrounds.

From the Builder

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OUR PROFESSIONAL TEAM OF TRADES AND SUPPLIERS ALL WORK TOGETHER TO BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME, ON TIME AND WITHIN BUDGET. ”

TODD DIMON OF GEM BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS Tell us a bit about your business - how long have you been operating? GEM Building Constructions specialises in building unique architectural designs to suit our clients’ needs, either created by us or by an architect of their choosing. We custom design homes to suit your exact lifestyle. Our professional team of trades and suppliers all work together to build your dream home, on time and within budget. We were established in Port Macquarie over 12 years ago, developing strong relationships with local trades and suppliers throughout this time and continue to provide our services to many satisfied clients along the Mid North Coast. What are the types of building that you specialise in? At GEM Building Constructions we build all types of dwellings, specialising particularly in duplex construction, modern alfresco entertaining, and all aspects of decking and landscaping. We can fully complete your home from start to finish.

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W E EN SU R E RE TH AT CO ST S A D N A T EN R TR A N SPA TI FY CL EA R LY ID EN FRO M S N TH E IN CLU SI O A SE S O F PH L TH E IN IT IA .” YO U R PROJE CT

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QUIET & STYLISH EASY CARE LIVING

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What are some of the featured design elements of the duplex? Some notable design features which demonstrate the duplex’s unique character include: (1) split-level two-storey construction to not only maximise the yard space, but to also maximise the floor space; (2) high ceilings throughout to enhance the interior space and natural lighting; (3) use of new innovative building products, creating a common wall which is more fire resistant, acoustic and thermal proof then previously possible; (4) modern vinyl floors are versatile, easily cleaned and/or replaced, and have a stylish appearance; (5) alfresco area is finished in deluxe tiling, with a feature wall of stacking tiles to accentuate the surroundings, overlooking natural bushland.

The alfresco area also has a thoughtfully positioned window to ensure adequate ventilation when using a BBQ; (6) “highlight” windows used in the main living area and the stair void which give a warm, bright feel to the duplex and creates the impression of ample space; (7) in-built cupboards and storage spaces are generously provided on every level. How do we go about commissioning you to build for us? What is the process? We would love the opportunity to meet with you and make your dream home a reality. We ensure that costs are transparent and clearly identify the inclusions from the initial phases of your project. Give us a call or email to arrange a time for consultation, and we will design, construct and landscape your home to your individual needs. Thanks Todd.

UPDATE

Lounge Lizards by Janet Slater

BLUE TONGUES ARE AT HOME IN PORT MACQUARIE. ONCE I ACCIDENTALLY SAT ON ONE THAT WAS HIDING BETWEEN TWO MATTRESSES ON MY OUTDOOR FURNITURE.

I welcome these sleek individuals in my garage, laundry, and courtyard garden. Over time I’ve learnt to create a Blue Tongue friendly garden habitat with plenty of plants months. and low shrubbery along the fence line. I have We have observed this couple - Mr placed blocks of wood or brick to create and Mrs Stumpy - over many escape hollows and shelters for years, identifiable because these backyard buddies. both have lost the end I wondered how they of their tails (perhaps found their food, from a brush-cutter because the snails and t or lawnmower), and The male doesn’ slugs they eat come tails never grow have time to out at night, and Blue busy back perfectly. raise young: he is es , Tongues are best at mal Their mating visiting all his fe foraging after midof ry can be a bit rough, covering a territo morning sunbaking. .” ocks but is sometimes several house bl I watched them and patient and almost realised it’s those hard romantic (on his part). noses that work for Because of their long them. They nuzzle about shape and little limbs, it the ground-cover seeking all seems rather slow motion refuge sites of caterpillars and to us. grubs, and anything juicy that can be Females stay in a defined home base, easily swiped with a sticky triangular (blue) so we see Mrs Stumpy even in winter, on tongue, or scooped sideways into their wide warm days. During summer she may look gape. “a little pregnant”, before giving birth to live This means they help gardeners by removing young that don’t need any mothering. pests without harming any other plants or The male doesn’t have time to raise young: animals. A Blue Tongue buddy can live in your he is busy visiting all his females, covering a garden for 20 years, so it’s worth getting to territory of several house blocks. So at times know these beautiful skinks and encouraging Mr Stumpy looks rather the worse for wear, them to stay. with injuries such as a drag-along leg. Blue Tongue lizards love being in contact Our neighbourhood is dog and cat free, so with solid ground, and with those little short we can observe the young ones that appear legs it seems that their underbellies could not each summer. Some grow to adulthood; the get any closer! They dislike being picked up, so unlucky ones are squished while sunbaking if you ever have to move one to safety, you can in the car-park, or mauled to death when throw a towel over it, grabbing behind its head roaming. so it can’t turn and bite in self defence. Or you Young ‘uns sometimes winter over in our can sweep it gently into a box to move it out house, under the washing machine or fridge, of danger. or in a secret cavity in a wall. ot only did it survive, but that hardy little male introduced his wife to the lounge, as a cosy location to hibernate during the winter

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HO DREAM

IDEAS

Fastplast A NEW INSULATED PATIO ROOF Why choose a structural insulated roof panel for your new outdoor living space? If you want to create that indoor outdoor alfresco entertaining area in your backyard, that can be used all year round without worrying about the extreme highs of summer, and the lows of winter, then a new insulated panel roof is ideal. Versiclad structural insulated composite roof panels are a 3 in 1 specialty product which combine a colour coated exterior profiled steel roof, a fire retardant polystyrene insulated core, and a pre-finished ceiling face. Versiclad roof panels will not only keep you cool in summer and warm in winter, but deliver a comfortable atmosphere wherever it is you crave a relaxed environment. Long trafficable free spans of up to 11.4 m can also help reduce the

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amount of unsightly support beams, to leave you with a fresh, clear uninterrupted ceiling. Achieving an insulation performance of up to RT5.0, Versiclad insulated roof panels can transform the way we insulate our homes and how we live our lives. Add walls, windows, glass doors or simple café blinds to enclose your area to create a perfect weather proof room for all occasions. Already have a patio with an unbearably hot steel roof in summer? Convert your verandah roof into a great looking insulated outdoor living area that combats the extreme summer heat with Ceilink panels from Versiclad. At last, a ready to use insulated ceiling that will help you survive the extreme heat and humidity of the Australian summer - with the added bonus that it will also keep the chill away in

winter. The Ceilink insulated polystyrene centre reduces radiant heat transfer by more than 90% and achieves an RT2.6 thermal performance, making it ideal for outdoor living areas such as verandahs, pergolas, sunrooms and sheds. When used in enclosed areas, the insulation properties help negate the need for air conditioning in summer and heating in winter, appealing to home owners concerned by increasing energy costs. The Ceilink panels are lightweight, manageable and prefinished with a white steel ceiling face. Compared to traditional retrofit ceilings, Ceilink installation is a breeze, and there is no need for painting or any of the mess - making it the ideal ceiling solution. As Australians continue to embrace the use of outdoor entertaining areas, Ceilink is an almost

instant outdoor living insulation solution which transforms your tired out patio into an attractive outdoor living area. “With the entire family around for Christmas Day, sitting under our pergola was unbearable due to the extreme heat that radiated through our steel roof; it was like sitting in a sauna. The Ceilink panels have provided us with both the alfresco look and the comfort level we craved. We no longer feel like we are sitting in a microwave whilst entertaining guests. We are truly amazed at how good it works. It was completed in less than a day, as due to the prefinished surface there was no messy painting required.” Fore more information: Contact Damon Ryan at: Fastplast Building Supplies Ph: 6581 2526

Curtains and blinds

DREAM

HOME

IDEAS

Spotlight Did you know? Windows are a big source of unwanted heat loss and heat gain in your home. Choosing the right window coverings means you can improve the comfort of your home all-year-round, reduce your power bills by around $45 or more, and cut carbon pollution by 200 kg each year. Keeping your home warm in winter You can control the temperature of your home in winter without relying on power-hungry heating appliances. Fitting curtains and blinds that reduce heat loss and trap warmth saves on power bills and reduces our impact on the environment. You can reduce heat loss in winter: close curtains, blinds or shutters on cold, cloudy days and especially at night – this keeps the heat inside your home cover windows with close-fitting, floor-length, heavy curtains. Curtains with pelmets are better at storing heat than Venetian blinds. Tightly

fitting Holland or Roman blinds made from closely woven fabrics like a cotton/polyester blend are also effective for reducing heat loss. Likewise, shutters are effective if they can be tightly closed and are not louvered. make the most of sunny days and open curtains, blinds and shutters on windows facing the sun – this will let in sunlight and warmth, and will help to minimise the need to use your heating system. Keeping your home cool in summer About half of unwanted heat comes through exposed windows. Shading your windows can minimise heat in your home to create a comfortable cooler environment – and save on power bill. This May Spotlight have 40% all custom made Curtains. Call Troy Highlands Custom Made Consultant 0413988599.

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Scott Lawrence, Builder / Lawrence Built

DREAM

HOME

IDEAS

Four Key Considerations

FOR YOUR HOME RENOVATION

nsuring that your renovation goes to plan and is as stressfree as possible simply takes good planning. Here are four key considerations that will contribute to achieving your perfect renovation outcome:

we recommend having a quick chat with your builder so you can establish what you can and can’t afford to include in your brief to the designers. This can potentially save you a lot of money in architectural revisions if you need to scale back your original wish list.

Don’t over capitalise on your renovation expenditure

Consider maintenance implications of your selected features

Renovations are generally embarked upon to make your property more attractive, comfortable and valuable. However, when the cost of your renovation outweighs how much value it will add to your property, you may find you expose yourself financially. One of the best ways to ascertain what the average property value is in your area is to have a quick flick through the Property Guide or chat to your local Real Estate Agent or Property Valuer. If you are renovating for lifestyle reasons and don’t plan to sell quickly, it may not be such an issue.

Features such as a large timber deck always look sensational when they are first built. Bear in mind though, after a while (and particularly in this climate) the timber finish may start to fade and you will need to oil or repaint regularly in order to keep it looking smart.

Run your concept and ideas by your Builder before engaging an Architect or Building Designer This is simply so we can give you a rough gauge of what things may cost. You’ll most likely have a budget in mind and a rough indication of what you would like to include in your renovation. Before you start getting too far down the track of the design process,

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Be savvy with your sourcing It’s really easy to overspend with renovation projects. There are several things you can do to ensure you are savvy with your spend. Consider sourcing second hand building materials, shop around for quotes and avoid taking shortcuts when it comes to people you hire. Lawrence Built has been renovating homes on the Mid North Coast now for over 35 years. Our team of qualified builders have a solid understanding of the potential benefits and pitfalls of renovating every style of home, and we can help guide you through the renovation process from start to finish.

focus real estate.

McGrath I T ’ S A L WAY S B E T T E R T O M A K E DECISIONS BASED UPON FIRST H A N D I N F O R M AT I O N , T O D I S C O V E R FA C T S D I R E C T LY FROM THE SOURCE OR SOURCES AND TO BENEFIT F R O M T H AT A L L - I M P O R TA N T OPP ORT U N I T Y TO A SK QUESTIONS AND TO CLARIFY A N Y P O I N T S O F U N C E R TA I N T Y.

hat’s probably one of the reasons why, when considering the purchase of a new car, we’ll take the time to visit different dealerships, talk with their sales people, test drive interesting models and discuss pricing. Sure, one salesman may tell us that his oppositions’ products are inferior to his or that their deal won’t measure up (and salesmen can be quite convincing) but we’ll generally choose to discover the truth for ourselves, by checking these things first hand. After all, a car is a significant purchase! Hearsay can be entertaining, but it is rarely accurate. It can so easily be influenced by envy, urgency or a simple lack of specific knowledge; even by a sense of self-preservation, in instances where a salesman feels unable to compete with his opposition on a fair and level playing field. Real estate is a highly competitive industry, where precision can so easily give way to determination and where ill-informed suggestions can often be interpreted as fact. Sadly there are some who form opinions based solely upon a foundation of misinformation, inaccurately maligning the target of their attention. McGrath will not tolerate dubious practices within its own operations and the McGrath network incorporates a number of inescapable auditing processes, specifically designed to identify and to remove any possible perpetrators. McGrath’s valuation appraisals are accurate, fully supported by actual comparables and its business practices are beyond reproach. The brand is justifiably proud of its reputation for honesty, transparency and fair play, each member of its team dedicated to the absolute finest levels of

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integrity and customer service. When people think of McGrath they perceive a quality product; they notice how the brand’s advertising stands out against its competitors, how properties are presented in clear and concise terms and how pictorials are beautifully styled and superbly photographed. None of this happens by chance; McGrath takes its responsibilities very seriously. Perhaps this is the reason why some believe, or are lead to believe, that selling their home through McGrath might be a more costly alternative, but nothing could be further from the truth; although the bar has been raised, in terms of services, presentation, marketing strategies and success rates, when selling your home, McGrath remains an extremely competitive option. At McGrath “service” is not just a word, it’s a promise. A promise to work closely with clients, to understand their individual needs, to tailor arrangements to suit those needs and to ensure that each and every client is kept both comfortable and informed. Highly successful in its field and with every confidence in its consistently excellent results, McGrath is a business with the resources to support these undertakings. Advertising costs don’t vary significantly from agent to agent, yet they can be minimised by a shorter term on market, and this is where McGrath excels. With commission rates which compare very favourably with most other local agencies, McGrath can offer so much more. No matter whether the market is active or slow, a greater number of competing buyers will always result in a swifter transaction, with a higher price at sale. Over the past 12 months, more than 50 percent of local sales have been to buyers from

Everything to gain and nothing to lose .”

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outside of the Port Macquarie area; mostly from Sydney. To attract these buyers, the McGrath network has a unique “pooled” database of qualified buyers, assembled from across the east coast of Australia and from overseas, and currently exceeding 258,000 in number. No other real estate agent can offer a facility of this magnitude. Within hours of receiving a new property listing, McGrath’s highly-sophisticated systems forward email alerts to all matching buyers, with further contact occurring in the days following. Australia’s most popular real estate franchise website, www.mcgrath.com.au, with its variety of exclusive search engines, received 485,870 visits in the month of March alone. Of course, like most other agents, McGrath also lists its clients’ properties on the open sites, ‘realestate.com.au’ and ‘domain.com.au’ but unlike other agents, McGrath funds a premium payment to ensure that its clients’ homes are listed as ‘featured properties’, appearing on the first one or two pages rather than buried on the latter screens. This is a free upgrade for McGrath clients. There are so many exceptional features which place McGrath Estate Agents ahead of its competition; features which are the envy of the residential property industry. Features which reach more buyers more quickly, which consistently secure premium prices for McGrath clients and which achieve them in the shortest possible time. Very recently, McGrath sold a traditional two-bedroom East Port home for a price which was $65,000 above the vendor’s most ambitious

expectation. In another recent instance, a Clifton home achieved a price, $35,000 above a comparable neighbouring home which was sold, around the same time, by a competitor. There are many such examples. An additional $35,000 - $65,000 at sale; what could this mean for the McGrath clients: Perhaps it could mean a future mortgage which is $35k - $65,000 lower; a possible saving of $100k - $180k over the life of the average loan? Perhaps, in their next home, they might choose to install a swimming pool; perhaps a granny flat, or both? A new car would be affordable, or an overseas holiday, together with a significant contribution towards future security. “Everything to gain and nothing to lose” is a much-used expression which clearly underlines the reason why, if you are considering the sale of your family home or investment property, it really does make sense to talk to one of the friendly sales agents at McGrath. Competitors may suggest otherwise but they cannot speak for McGrath. When selling your home, it really costs no more to use McGrath, Australia’s most respected real estate agency. In many cases it actually costs less and yet it achieves so much more. So why not benefit from McGrath’s unique and much-envied marketing advantages then let the results speak for themselves? After all, it’s always better to make decisions based upon first hand information. Freelance copywriter: Roger Bates www.copywritingandcolumns.com.au

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