Port Macquarie Focus - i88

Feature Story GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

March 2013 // issue 88

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa

FIND ALL YOUR EASTER TREATS

editor's note.

What’s

ON@ FLICKERFEST Flickerfest is Australia’s only Academy® Accredited and BAFTA recognised short film festival. Welcome to the world of shorts!

Saturday 9 March, 7.30pm

Non member: Adult $19.50, Conc/Group (6+) $17.50, Under 21/Student $15.50 GH Member: Adult $17.50, Conc/Group (6+) $15.50, Under 21/Student $13.50

DALE BURRIDGE IN CLASS ACT A true superstar of Australian music theatre, Dale has starred in The Sound of Music, Les Miserables, The Phantom of The Opera, The Rat Pack’s Back and Scrooge the Musical.

editor.

from the

Monday 18 March, 11am

Non Member: $24.00, GH Member $20.00, Group 6+ $22.50

Welcome to the March issue of Greater Port Macquarie FOCUS. decided this month to remove Jay from his Editor's Letter spot and replace his photo with the ladies of FOCUS, to better coincide with our annual Women In Business feature. (Sorry Jay!)

I

new yellow Wiggle, Emma, who was full of excitement about The Wiggles' upcoming tour; musician Pete Murray, who is coming to Panthers; and the amazing Birds of Tokyo, who'll be appearing at LUSC.

It is great privilege for FOCUS to be able to work with the talented and enthusiastic business women of the region, and each year this special feature is a huge drawcard for participants. 2013 attracted 44 local businesses from a diverse range of industries, to celebrate the women and to showcase their specialities, achievements and dedication to supporting local causes. You can read all about them and their stories starting on page 48.

There are still plenty of events happening around the region in March and April, and we hope to cover as many of them as we can, so that you can go along and enjoy yourselves.

Personally, I would like to say a HUGE thanks to my colleagues – Chrissy, Jasmin, Jo and Annette – for their tireless dedication to FOCUS and ensuring we give 110% each month. I am so fortunate and proud that we have such a great FOCUS family.

INSIDE THIS EDITION Our March edition includes a range of great interviews with locals, including artist Sue Wilson from Winsome and Willow, collector Steve Lynn, pinup Lady Dale Velvet-Rose and CSU Director Dr. Muyesser Durur. Plus, there are our visiting identities, including the

IN THE FOCUS STUDIO FOCUS recently interviewed our local Federal Member Rob Oakeshott live in the FOCUS Studio. You can read an excerpt of the interview on page 21, or watch the full interview online at www.focustv.com.au. We'll be making 'Live in the FOCUS Studio' a regular feature each month, so get ready for more interviews in future editions.

FINAL SAY “It is good to love many things, for therein lies the true strength, and whosoever loves much performs much, and can accomplish much, and what is done in love is well done.”

- Vincent van Gogh.

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

ART DIRECTOR: Dylan Gaul dylan@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Joey Dable

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: 62128786005 Material in Focus is Copyright © Creative House Publications PTY LTD 2009-2013 and may not be reproduced whole or in part, in any form, without permission of the Publisher. All rights reserved.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Jeff Cowan

Non Member: Adult $54.50, Conc $49.50, Under 21/Student/Group (6+) $45 GH Member: Adult $49.50, Conc/Group (6+) $45, Under 21/Student $41.50

AIR, LIGHT & SPACE: CONTEMPORARY ABSTRACTION Michael Cusack, Angus Nivison and Wendy Stokes explore emotional responses to aspects of the natural and built environments through abstraction. Free.

Angus Nivison, ’Light & Dark II’, 2011, acrylic, charcoal, pigments & gesso on paper, 175 x 125 cm (detail). Courtesy of the artist and Utopia Art, Sydney.

8 March - 27 April

VINTAGE: THE LOST WORKS OF MAX DUPAIN Vintage brings together two glorious collections of forgotten images of wine grape vintages in The Hunter by legendary photographer Max Dupain. Free.

Max Dupain, Before Mechanised Harvesting and Transport, c1950, 50.8 x 67.59cm.

15 March - 27 April

THE TINYTOREUM: GUNNA THE GOANNA’S BIG IDEAS Direct from the Powerhouse Museum, this exhibition plays with notions of scale and size, the familiar and unfamiliar, and the practical and fantastical, in a richly visual way that will inspire children and adults alike. Free.

15 March - 27 April

BIG FAMILY FUN! Goodie bags, face painting, jumping castle, art activities, book readings & Special Kids’ Meal Deal @ BLANK CANVAS cafe. Free.

jay@focusmag.com.au

joey@focusmag.com.au

Tuesday 2 & Wednesday 3 April, 8pm & Thursday 4 April, 11am

THE TINYTOREUM GRAND OPENING!

EDITOR: Jay Beaumont

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

One of Australia’s most loved dance companies, Melbourne Ballet Company, presents a breathtaking example of classical dance re-interpreted to inspire new and loyal ballet audiences.

Gunna the Goanna’s Big Ideas, Illustration by Bruce Whatley for The Tinytoreum.

Louise Beaum Beaumont – Louise@focusmag.com.au

Featured on the cover: Pix, Zoe, Sandra and Natasha. Ottomans courtesy of Oz Design Furniture, Photo By Michael Marchment

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INFINITE SPACE - MELBOURNE BALLET COMPANY

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.

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Michael Marchment

Saturday 16 March 11am - 1pm

michael@focusmag.com.au

GRAPHIC DESIGNER: Kyle Rathbone kyle@focusmag.com.au

BLANK CANVAS CAFE

jeff@focusmag.com.au

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER: Louise Beaumont louise@focusmag.com.au

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COPY EDITORS: Jo Atkins / Reg Brookhouse jo@focusmag.com.au / reg@focusmag.com.au

TRAVEL EDITOR: Susie Boswell

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au

winwin@portpr.com

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

of the

Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444 The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

greater port macquarie focus 3

focusinterview.

Dame T e

K a n a w a

The beautiful voice of Dame Kiri Te Kanawa will soar in Port Macquarie’s Glasshouse on March 13. From her early concerts in New Zealand to an operatic career that’s spanned the world and several decades, Dame Kiri is a musical phenomenon …

Y

ou were born in New ZeaOpera Centre? land nts At first, t partt off me was scared d … coming i ffrom land, and from all acco accounts you began singing at a young a small provincial town in the Pacific, to a vast age. What are some of your international metropolis where the seasons were fondest memories from those back-to-front. I knew hardly anybody, and the early years? traffic, the transport, was bewildering. Plus, when It was a fairly normal childhood – for being in a I started at the Opera Centre, I quickly discovered small provincial town near the sea. that having a ‘promising’ voice was only the beginEverybody knew everybody else, we had pets, ning … that was when the real work started. But, I television didn’t exist, there was only one telegradually grew to love London and still do. phone in the house − on the wall, and we went Who were some of the most inspirational and fishing! My father was passionate about fishing influential people in your life – those you feel and I often went with him – I’m enthusiastic about had an enormous impact on your career? fishing to this day. In those days he had always I hadn’t been in London long, when I was caught some fish by the late afternoon and he’d auditioned by Dame Joan Sutherland and her huslight a small fire near the water’s edge and cook band Richard Bonynge. He and Joan agreed that the fish in a pan. So fresh! There’s no food sensaalthough I’d been trained as a mezzo-soprano, I tion quite like that. could likely develop into a full soprano.

You entered (and won) many They were right, and I am ever vocal competitions in both grateful to both.

New Zealand and AusSince then I’ve worked I’ve been in this time, profession a long tralia. How much nerve with, and met, extraorrming but my own perfo ever. So and did it take to get dinary people. Some I r fo st la career can’t up in front of these can pick out would be: to in ng di instead of just fa g in try audiences for the first Pavarotti, who was an I’m , nd ou the back gr perience ex time? amazing talent, and I e th on ss pa to offered The town of Gissang with him several I’ve gained , as an r singers – borne is a long way from times. I sang for Nelson guide to younge s lie t wha to help them with anywhere else, and when Mandela’s charity, and ” d. ea ah I was very young, I used to being with that quiet and get sick on car journeys. My aristocratic man was unforgetmother discovered that if I sang table. So too Sir Edmund Hillary little kiddie songs, the sickness went – again a quiet man, but what a hero – away. She thought the little songs sounded first man to stand on both North and South quite good, and used to ask me to sing to Poles and also the world’s highest mountain! visitors. Then she took me to a radio station, Even though Mr. Mandela and Sir Edmund didn’t and they liked what they heard … so from when have a direct influence on my musical career, both I was about eight years old, I was standing on a were examples of stickability and focus … and a chair in front of a microphone, to sing over the singer needs those. radio. The ‘performances’ grew more frequent, so From your operatic debut at Covent Gardens when I was old enough to enter competitions – I in 1970 to present day, you’ve performed so was used to it. many roles. Which was the most difficult role What do you remember most from your time for you to learn and perform? later in London – you were only 21 when Probably the most difficult (and time consumyou moved there and enrolled at the London ing) to learn was Der Rosenkavalier − the role of

“

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greater port macquarie focus.

the Marschallin is long and very complex. But I ’t say it was difficult lt tto perform f d it can’t – I lloved it, because Strauss’ music lies in exactly the right part of my voice. I last sang the role in 2010 in Germany and might not sing it again. But although it requires massive concentration to get the music right, I did love it.

Your voice is absolutely amazing still, even after so many demanding performances. What techniques have you used throughout your career to preserve your beautiful sound?

To some people it comes as a surprise when I say it – but a professional singer has to observe qualities similar to those of a professional sportsman − discipline, stickability, maintaining good health, and paying constant attention to technique.

I had the good fortune to be taught by two remarkable teachers – Dame Sister Mary Leo when I was a teenager, and Vera Rozsa in my adult career. From them I learned technique – and it is of paramount importance. You can admire a sports person who has impressive brute force …but force tires. The person with controlled technique can last much longer. I tell all young singers that: if you want a career that lasts – learn and maintain technique. Long after I was an established singer, people would ask, “Why do you still go to singing lessons?” I’d tell them: “World-class athletes at the Olympic Games still have a coach …”

The Kiri De Kanawa Foundation, which you established in New Zealand, is something you’re obviously passionate about. What are the aims of the Foundation?

I kept seeing and meeting young singers – who although they unmistakably had talent, seemed to have no idea of the directions you have to follow to move into a long-lasting professional career. I’ve been in this profession a long time, but my own performing career can’t last for ever.

So instead of just fading into the background, I’m trying to pass on the experience I’ve gained, as an offered guide to younger singers – to help them with what lies ahead.

Brush aside the (understandable) dreams,

th hem. But also help them to yet still encourage them. th i voice i − and d also l acquaint i t them th ith preserve their with some of the realities they will face and some of the difficulties they must be prepared for. My Foundation is dedicated to this kind of mentoring – and I love it.

I’ve read another interview where you were quoted as saying you’re more of a 'tomboy’ off the stage – which is such a contrast to the elegant appearance you present on stage ...

A deal of my childhood was spent outdoors.

Now, much of my time is spent in cities … and when I have a chance I really like the contrast of being outdoors. I can play golf and sometimes take part in game-shooting. But fishing’s the main off-work pursuit. I can handle a speed-boat, and have a Boston Whaler of my own. There’s no doubt my greatest unwind is fishing ...

Although you’re retired from the operatic stage now, you still perform concerts and recitals – like the one you’ll be presenting at the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie. How much do you enjoy these smaller, more intimate performances?

I’m not completely retired from the opera stage – it’s unlikely I’ll want to sing major operatic roles again, but I’m still invited to the Metropolitan Opera in New York to sing as the Duchess of Krakenthorpe in the opera Daughter of the Regiment ... I love doing it. But yes, I enjoy concerts and recitals very much. It’s partly because of the variety being offered.

An operatic role puts you in one character for the whole performance − but a concert requires you to create a different atmosphere for each song. That is something of a challenge – but I enjoy that immensely ... in a recital the musical range is much wider – from Mozart to contemporary American, German Lieder to British Folk song.

I love the variety, and I think audiences do too.

Dame Kiri Te Kanawa will appear at the Glasshouse on March 13 at 8pm. Please note that at the time of going to print, tickets to the performance have sold out.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

inside this

Issue 88 - March 2013

14.

Steve Lynn.

What started out as an idea for Christmas presents grew into an all consuming passion for Steve. His fascination with the intricate process of light playing through glass has seen his collection grow in scope ...

Pete Murray.

30.

Channelling the unique energy and cool vibe of Byron Bay, Pete Murray will stop over at Port Panthers this month, as a part of his Blue Sky Blue - The Byron Sessions tour ...

Tony Park.

95.

Tony Park leads a life most of us could only dream about ‌ living half of each year in Africa, while he researches and writes his novels, and the other half of the year in Sydney.

His latest novel, Dark Heart, is a an adventurous thriller set against the backdrop of stunning African scenery and wildlife, with some insights into the mass genocide in Rwanda at its heart.

6. The Wiggles 17. James Dong 43. Lasiandra Festival 74. My Holiday

usual suspects.

the

10. what’s on for March 24. eat featuring local restaurants 29. palate pleasures with Lou Perri 37. social scene with Kate Wood-Foye 40. tourism with Janette Hyde 40. travel with Susie Boswell 81. starguide with Terri 91. port chamber update with Hadyn Oriti 107. landcare with Estelle Gough 107. real estate with Greg Trembath

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

www.focusmag.com.au u follow us on www.facebook.com/focus.mag www.twitter.com/focusmag www.focusmag.com.au/eat greater port macquarie focus 5

focusinterview.

Emm Meet

a

Her energy is electric ... a bubbly, fun and super excited Yellow Wiggle, Emma, shares with FOCUS her unbridled enthusiasm for the new look Wiggles, as they get ready for their ‘Taking Off’ tour and wiggle their way up the Mid North Coast, entertaining their young fans as they go! ongratulations on becoming the first female Wiggle! What has the reception been like for you? h d such h a positive i i response; we We’ve had were hoping for positive, but it has actually been super positive!

We had a few shows at Dreamworld in the middle of January to get ready for Hyde Park; we had some great feedback, and you know the people who came to see us are people who loved The Wiggles and The Wiggles songs, and they are now loving the new Wiggles. It’s all the same, but with a different energy and different vibe.

Give us some background about yourself as an entertainer and your history as a part of The Wiggles group?

Well, I have grown up a dancer my whole life, and I used to watch The Wiggles when I was younger – I am the perfect Wiggle generation I guess (laughs).

I actually appear in the audience of one their (earlier) shows with my sister dancing!

So I have always danced, and I got an audition to be Fairy Larissa on the Dorothy the Dinosaur Show, and I was really lucky and got the part. So I toured as the Fairy doing ballet for a little bit and appeared on the DVDS, then The Wiggles found out that I had been to film school; I studied film editing at the Sydney Film School. They wanted me to come and shoot some behind the scenes footage for them while they were on tour. So I started that, and then I merged into a wiggly dancer while we were on tour and on The Wiggles Shows – and I got to meet The Wiggles, which was really exciting! And about a year and half later, I got asked to be a Wiggle!

It’s been a real whirlwind, but you feel like you’ve been here for 10 years ... and I’ve only been here for three.

So you do have some big shoes to fill ... what is it that fans are going to love about Emma?

Umm, well definitely my dancing! I bring a lot of that to the show – even though Wiggly dancing is very unique 6 greater port macquarie focus.

rig ight ht, and and Anthony Anth An thony is is the real star of that kind exxciting; in fact, it is too exciting! It’s unbelievunb in its own right, year – that’s exciting; af of dance! But I think it is really nice for Dorothy to have able that there is even more stuff to come out even after w can’t wait to get on tour and just start st it! someone to do the ballet with, and I can definitely ‘shake Taking Off, so we i out’ with i h Wags The h Dog – that’s h ii h is i your favourite f i song to perform f h it pretty exciting.

But I So what then? also play the drums, so that brings a great Rock chick girl Uuurrgghhhh! (Laughs). I have a new favourite song component. every two weeks!

It sounds like it is very FUN job to have – does it ever But for the Taking Off tour, my favourite is the Glasses get stressful? song – especially because I wear glasses, and that is how It’s more that there are a lot of things to fit in the day – I kids relate to things (with what relates to themselves). I don’t even know where I sleep! relate to that, ‘cause I do wear glasses. And I really like It’s actually really, really fun! And we Do the Propeller, which is really dancy and about have just been recording some stuff getting your arms out and moving them like a for our album that is coming out propeller on a plane. n ow gr ve ha I later in the year. But even just So, the tour kicks off soon. What can l, el “W y m er doing all the filming for our we expect to see at the shows? nc up a da ed us I d new DVD, Taking Off, which If you LOVE The Wiggles – all Wiggles an e, whole lif es gl ig W comes out about 6 March ...

– then you will love this show. It has all e to watch Th r ge I don’t think I stopped laughun the songs that people will recognise, yo when I was ing! In some of the clips you like Hot Potato, Hot Potato and Big Red ct – I am the perfe I will see me actually laughing!

Car and also a lot of new songs, a new n, Wiggle generatio So a new era with new energy and vibe, and you can learn new guess. ” members and as you just dances like Do the Propeller. mentioned, some new DVDs and But we do need to remember that Captain songs. What’s the behind scenes Feathersword, Wags the Dog and Dorothy will all like when making new songs for your still be there. fans ...

Ok, a quick round of questions: We have had such a great time, because we have been Nickname: Em-vee. given time to write songs ourselves and it’s not just the Favourite colour: Pink ... no ... yellow! sounds of the old Wiggles; there are another three people Favourite food: Sushi. collaborating on the album. So we are getting a lot of Favourite dance move: The ‘Wiggle’ move. positive feedback about the new voices and the fact there Favourite Wiggle friend: Dorothy! is a girl’s voice now too.

Thanks Emma.

Between Lachy and Simon, Simon has the lowest voice that I have ever heard, and I think his range is so great, the plug! and Lachy is in the middle, but he can be very high as well See the Wiggles at Port Panthers on March – that’s pretty cool. I think that the three of us cross over 20 at 10am and 1pm. Tickets cost $27.50. really well.

Call Port Panthers on: 6580 2300 for details.

We have been writing new songs for release later in the

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focusinterview.

Simon Hoy

The Melbourne Ballet Company is headed to the Glasshouse, bringing 9 dancers for their performance of Infinite Space. Choreographer Simon Hoy tells us more about this not to be missed April event. i Simon. How did your dance career begin?

I’m a graduate of the Australian Ballet School – I graduated in 1997. Then I moved to Europe, and I worked as a soloist in Austria, Germany and Denmark before moving to the United States, where I worked for the Carolina Ballet, and Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet in New York.

I moved back to Australia in late 2006 and after some choreographic opportunities I had overseas, I founded the Melbourne Ballet Company with Alisa Finney in 2007. Since then I’ve choreographed around 20 works for the company; my role there is Resident Choreographer.

I still go over to Europe once a year for a few months to work, but I’m based in Melbourne most of the time.

How many dancers are involved with the Melbourne Ballet Company now?

The company is made up of around 10 -12 dancers. Since the company was founded in 2007, we’ve worked and collaborated with around 30 professional dancers. The company is contemporary ballet in style – it’s very classically based, and all of the dancers are very established classical dancers who’ve come from major ballet companies from around the world, such as the Paris Opera Ballet, the Australian Ballet, English National Ballet, Sydney Dance Company, and Hamburg Ballet. There’s a huge amount of experience and professionalism that makes up our team – and that’s what I think gives the Melbourne Ballet Company such an identity. The standard is absolutely first rate.

How many dancers will be travelling to Port Macquarie?

We’ll be bringing 9 dancers to Port Macquarie for this production.

Infinite Space, the ballet you’re bringing to the Glasshouse, appears to be quite a complex production, as it involves several segments …

It’s four ballets or works, so the entire ballet runs for about 85 minutes (with one 20 minute interval). The program has toured throughout Australia – it’s been to Tasmania, throughout 8 greater port macquarie focus.

Victoria, to Darwin and across to WA; we premiered it at the Playhouse in the Victorian Arts Centre in 2011.

It’s a really strong program ... the four works go beautifully together. In the beginning, when the works were put together, there wasn’t a lot of over-intellectualising over the choice – it was a musical choice above The anything else. The four company is works are connected by contemporary s very accessible, beautiful ballet in style – it’ and popular classical very classically tumes, is fairly minimal. music from Vivaldi, based, and all of The star of the program Elgar, Mozart and Avo the dancers are is really the technique very establisheds.”

Pärt. It’s an uplifting, and ability of the dancers. classical dancer positive experience of One of the reasons that this beauty and movement. It’s a program has been so successful very dynamic, athletically based, is that it’s so simplistic in its producemotional ride. tion – it’s quite simple to tour, compared So, the four ballets are: In One Day, Dark to some other programs. The strength of the Before Daylight, Phrased Without Word, dancing, the choreography, the beautiful lightand Infinite Space – the latter work ing by our lighting team and the simplistic cosobviously lending its name to the overall tumes really delivers a pure, fresh production. production. Give us a few more details There are four works, so there are four about the Infinite Space work, which has costume changes. To give you an example, become something of a signature piece for the first ballet is In One Day, and in that the the Melbourne Ballet Company … dancers are wearing flesh coloured leotards It’s actually two movements: Mozart’s 27th and short tights, and it’s been lit so that you Piano Concerto and also one of his Clarinet can see every nuance of the muscle tone and Concertos in A Minor. The movement is fluid, physicality of the dancers. romantic, inward-looking – it’s a very touching, When the company was first performing theatrical experience. The music is absolutely about 5 years ago, we did quite a few perforsparkling … most people know the music and mances where the audience were very close, so relate to it. The dancers are very familiar with we developed a reputation for giving the audithis work now, so they’re very comfortable ence the perspective of seeing the breath, the with it and do it beautifully. It has become a sweat, every emotion and changing expression signature piece for the company – it’s about of the dancers. In One Day is an example of hope, beauty, positivity … I feel the ballet isn’t this – and it’s also a journey through the four trying to be too thought provoking, but it’s seasons of Melbourne … trying to encapsulate the music physically on The program is abstract, but in each work stage … there is certainly an element of motive, or posBallet is such a visual medium, as well as sibly a narrative. an aural one, and costumes have a large And to end on a light note, you mentioned role to play in terms of a production’s 9 dancers will be visiting us at the Glassappeal. Are there many costume changes house. Most of us are aware that it’s very involved with these works? hard, physical work to be a ballet dancer The overall production, including the cosor choreographer, but when you all get

“

together on tour – it must be a really fun, enjoyable experience too?

Absolutely! It’s fantastic. All the dancers enjoy working on this program, but beyond that we’ve also given workshops while on tour – and the amount of young kids out there learning ballet is really encouraging.

There are so many kids learning ballet who don’t get the exposure to professional ballets and dancers … I don’t see why kids should have to spend hundreds of dollars travelling to Sydney or Melbourne to see a ballet, so being able to bring a show of this quality to these kids at an affordable price throughout Australia has been incredibly rewarding too.

Thanks Simon.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

See the Melbourne Ballet Company’s performances of Infinite Space at the Glasshouse on: TUESDAY 2 APRIL, 8pm; WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL, 8pm; THURSDAY 4 APRIL, 11am.

Tickets cost: Non Members: $54.50 Adult, $49.50 Concession, $45 Under21/Student Members: $49.50 Adult, $45 Concession, $41.50 Under 21/ Student Visit www.glasshouse.org.au or call the Box Office on 6581 8888 for details.

Melbourne Ballet Company & Glasshouse Port Macquarie present

INFINITE

SPACE “A joyful experience.”

The Age

Let the Markets Shine!

Easter at The Block!

Prepare to be wowed this Easter, with an exciting range of unique Easter gift ideas at The Block Coffee + Chocolate. Hand crafted premium Belgium couverture chocolates from Cacao, The Block has the region’s most extensive range of fine chocolates from Australia’s most accomplished artisan chocolate makers, including eggs and hand painted figurines.

The new Easter Cacao range includes: • Individual medium egg with popping candy or dehydrated raspberries - each egg is painted differently, no egg the same, available in white, milk or dark chocolate.

• Mother hen - hand painted, and moulded with quality milk chocolate.

• Individual large egg - each egg is painted separately, no egg the same, available in white, milk or dark chocolate.

• Individual large bunny with neck tie - hand painted and crafted, available in milk or dark chocolate.

• Individual bunny in overalls - humorous Easter characters available in milk or dark chocolate.

??

The Block is located in Port Macquarie’s CBD Coles building.

Drop by for a browse 7 days, experience the chocolate bar with over 20 exquisite varieties on display and enjoy a chocolate with your next coffee or a light dessert after lunch.

After a few months of extreme weather on our market days, the stall holders of the Foreshore and Artist Market in the Vines are excited to bring you two markets this month under glorious skies. The larger of our market - The Foreshore Market - will bring Westport Park to life, with over 100 stalls ranging from produce direct from the farmers to landscape and abstract painting from our resident group of artists. We also will welcome the PMHC to this market, to give the public the first glimpse of the transformations that are scheduled for the playground area - a really exciting concept that once complete will bring a special feel to market day.

James Bennett, one of our favourite musicians, will be the line up for this market, with maybe a surprise for all of his fans - stay tuned!

The Artist Market is yet to show its true colours, so we are hoping that March will bring us the perfect day to shine. With our group of loyal followers all ready, we are truly excited about what this market can offer. Two months of flooding rain has tested our hearts - but we are all just waiting to bring you something that you will fall in love with!

We look forward to welcoming you to both the Foreshore Market and our little sister market - The Artist Market in the Vines. To keep up to date on all of our stalls, find us on Facebook.

r

The Glasshouse is supported by the NSW Government through Arts NSW

TUESDAY 2 APRIL , 8pm WEDNESDAY 3 APRIL, 8pm THURSDAY 4 APRIL, 11am

(02) 6581 8888 I glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie

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Show & Shi Shine ine Auto Swap Meet at Westport Park. Hastings Old Holdens Classic Cruise.

6th h Annuall Motor Spectacular l 15 - 17 March h 2013. Featuring hot h food, f d cold ld d drinks, k jumping castle and trade stands.

Crank @ The Port Golf Club Local band Crank will be playing live at The Port Macquarie Golf Club on Friday 15 March! CRANK is a totally live 3-piece band, playing a wide selection of popular favourites from Chuck Berry and The Beatles right through to 3 Doors Down and Grinspoon. Rich vocal harmonies add character to the great sound of this band. Enjoy a relaxing drink and delicious meal whilst listening to Iive music from Crank – a great way to spend a Friday evening. FREE ENTRY! When Friday 15 March – starting around 8pm.

Where Port Macquarie Golf Club. Ph. 6582 0409.

Located at Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie.

more information

Vintage Banquet in the Gardens

14

When 15 - 17 March 2013.

Contact info@hastingsoldholdens.com.au or www.hastingsoldholdens.com.au

Koala Hospital K

Sparkling wine or beer on arrival.

3 course banquet prepared by XS Food, with the focus on fresh local produce matched with premium Cassegrain Wines. Relax to the sounds of Suave Duo. Join in the fun of a Wine Options Game.

Lucky Door Prizes + 2013 Vintage overview from WInemakers John & Alex Cassegrain.

When Sunday 14 April 2013 - 12pm for 12.30pm start. t.

Tickets $99 (all inclusive) or $90 for Club Cassegrain Members. Bookings essential – seating limited.

Contact Sue Temple. Phone: 6582 8329.

30

4 40th ANNIVERSARY of PORT MACQUARIE KOALA HOSPITAL. 2013 is a big year for the Koala Hospital, H aas it is celebrating its 40th Anniversary. On Easter SSaturday, 30 March, we will be holding a larger than usual Open Day, where we will be honouring Jean u aand Max Starr, who began the hospital all those years aago. People can wander the Jean Starr Walk and of ccourse, a giant 40th birthday cake will be cut for all to sshare. Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy aall the activities.

When Saturday 30 March.

W Where Port Macquarie Koala Hospital, Macquarie W Nature Reserve/Lord St, Port Macquarie.

N

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

Jaguars are created to connect with the driver. At John Patrick Jaguar we connect with the customer.

This is why Jaguar Australia has judged us to be 2013 Regional Dealer of the Year.

See John Patrick Jaguar about your new Jaguar.

JAGUAR REGIONAL DEALER OF THE YEAR 2012

10 greater port macquarie focus.

PORT MACQUARIE JOHN PATRICK JAGUAR 169 Hastings River Drive, Port Macquarie 6584 1800

focusinterview.

blokes notes If you’re a Bloke and have an irrepressible urge to sing in the shower – there’s good news for you. You’re not alone! Local group Blokes Notes could provide just the therapy you’re looking for …

W

hen and how did Blokes Notes first form?

It is well known that one of the most primitive instincts is the urge to break into a melodious, or semi-melodious, explosion of sound.

A little over 4 years ago, Blokes Notes was set up as a support group to assist a number of Blokes who were unable to suppress this primitive urge and would break into unrestrained outpourings of song in the most inappropriate places (shopping centres, cafés, doctor’s surgeries etc.) We have had marginal success controlling this urge in our members.

What's your role with Blokes Notes?

This is my third year as ‘Chief Bloke’ (President).

I also provide some comic relief during our performances − some might say as a result of the quality of my singing, but I prefer to think it is because of my unrestrained interaction with the audiences.

What's the aim of the group?

The group’s aims include giving a creative outlet to men’s primitive choral instincts in the controlled environment of our rehearsals/workshops (held weekly during school terms) and at a number of public performances.

Participation in the community, socialisation, self-expression, fun and improving the quality of our ‘primitive’ utterings are also important aspects of the group. As environmentalists, we also aim to reduce the shower time for blokes by bringing singing out of the bathroom.

Who can join – are there any restrictions based on age or singing ability, for example?

Blokes Notes welcomes men of any gender; the ability to sing, or read music, is definitely not a prerequisite but we do prefer Blokes who are house trained. We realise, however, this is not always possible with tenors, but we take them anyway as a

valuable community service. interaction.

What costs are associated with being a member?

Blokes Notes has proved indisputably that singing Membership of Blokes Notes costs $40 per year, can improve every aspect of a man’s life. Even the and the cost of the workshops is $50 per term. In golfers among us have improved their putting ability 2013, blokes who pay for the first 3 terms get term 4 as a direct result of singing with Blokes Notes. for free.

What upcoming performances/events does Where and when does the group normally meet? Blokes Notes have in the near future?

The Blokes meet weekly, some of us very In an attempt to refresh our ranks, Blokes Notes have introduced a few new songs to weakly, in the Historic Courthouse, make new members feel at home.

Clarence St, Port Macquarie from We are working towards popping 6.30 - 8.30pm on Thursdays up unannounced at venues during school terms. e id ov pr I also f lie re ic around Port Macquarie to do a We subject ourselves to the m co e m so ances m or rf couple of Flash Mobs just after fabulous creative direction pe r ou ng duri y as a Easter. of Leanne Johnson, who in − some might sa ity of We are also planning her position of ‘Honorary result of the qual efer to I pr a collaboration with local Bloke’ has skilfully crafted/ my singing, but of my e think it is becaus ction performer Jim Matsinos in tolerated/cajoled the choir ra te in unrestrained October. for the last 3 years. ces.” with the audien As well as this, we regularly Following these workshops, get invitations from service clubs Blokes are invited to stay for and charity events to perform a short a light refreshment and generally interlude. engage in animated discussion on If there are some Blokes out there in the the appropriate use of the apostrophe which has recently, and rather controversially, been community interested in joining, whom do dropped from our name. they contact?

What's the group's repertoire like these days; do Men who would like to give Blokes Notes a try you all like to focus on certain kinds of music? are welcome any Thursday night at the Historic The Blokes have been known to sing just about Courthouse. anything: Rhythm and Blues, Country and Western, We are happy for prospective members to give the Bold and the Beautiful. We also have material as the choir a try for a few weeks before joining up. diverse as Lady Gaga, Ladysmith Black Mombassa, If anyone would like more information, they are gospel, sea shanties; in fact, you name it, we can invited to give me (Warren) a call on 0412 280 869 destroy it, in our own unique way! or Marcus on 0428 495 656. We also have a website, What personal benefits have you gained by which is in the process of being updated and it can being a member? be accessed at www.blokesnotes.org.au Since joining Blokes Notes, I have saved a fortune Thanks Warren. in therapy costs and water bills, my self-esteem has Interview with Warren Frumar, with assistance from soared, I have a more effective work/life balance, and Marcus Ludriks (Blokes Notes’ inspirational founder).

I have a more sensitive, tolerant approach to personal Interview by Jo Atkins.

“

greater port macquarie focus 11

focusinterview.

John Patrick Prestige Cars

Regional Jaguar Dealer of the Year.

John Patrick Prestige Cars has recently been awarded the prestigious title of Regional Jaguar Dealer of the Year. In selecting the Dealer of the Year winners, Jaguar Land Rover Australia takes into account a diverse set of criteria; these include sales performance, customer satisfaction, facilities presentation and training.

J

ohn Patrick Prestige Cars opened in 1992; how has the industry changed for new cars over the years?

There has been a massive change in our industry over the years. Currently Australia has got 63 manufacturers for a market of about 1 million vehicles per year; whereas, America has got 35 manufacturers for a market of 13.5 million. It’s a growing industry here in Australia, and we have seen huge changes throughout our time in business in Port Macquarie.

It’s just incredible to imagine so many players in our market.

You have positioned yourself with prestige brands. Tell us why in particular?

We wanted to be a niche market business; we didn’t want to go to the mass market. Although a couple of the franchises we stock have become more mass market, they are still high quality products.

Basically, we just wanted to deal with really good, high quality vehicles.

Tell us about the prestige brands at the John Patrick showroom ...

We have Suzuki and Honda, both Japanese brands, Isuzu Ute, Peugeot, which is our French brand, and the popular Land Rover and Jaguar.

John Patrick Prestige has recently picked up the Regional Dealer of the Year award for Jaguar, which is a huge achievement. Is this the first time you’ve won this award?

We have won the Regional Dealer award before with other franchises, but we hadn’t won it with Jag – so this is really exciting. A lot of people think this award is geared towards how many vehicles you sell of that particular brand, but it’s actually about overall customer satisfaction and servicing, taking in feedback from customer surveys, getting good results and ensuring brand signage and fit out are all

12 greater port macquarie focus.

correctly positioned at our dealership.

Explain some of the standards you have put into place to be able to meet such high customer service expectations. nowadays is the pricing. It has decreased We strive to achieve a a lot, due to the value of the Australian very personal service at dollar and the fact that they are now ds an br e es Th John Patrick, where producing and selling more cars. The have an we know everybody ct on new XF Jaguar goes for only $74K aspirational effe by their first name t of driveaway, which is a great price for people that a lo n’ t.We and customers are a Jag, making owning one of these othe r bran ds do s will er not just a number in prestigious vehicles more of a reality find that custom us, “I to our system. We don’t come in and say d to for customers. te have a huge volume have always wan How will you be celebrating ” g.

Ja of Jaguar clients, being own a your win of the Regional Jaguar a small area compared Dealership of the Year? to the metro areas, and Of course, it will be about our customers there aren’t a huge number of and service. We have extended our standard 3 Jaguar dealers in Australia either, so we year warranty to 5 years, on all of the Jaguar cars really need to make sure we are meeting all of the we have available throughout March and April. standards and performing well for the brand.

The team and I are really just enjoying the What has cemented Jaguar as a prestige brand recognition and respect that Dealer of the Year over the years? gives, and we are so proud to have this award – The Jaguar brand is iconic. The same as people which justifies all of the hard work we have been know Coca Cola or similar brand names, Jaguar is also putting in. an icon for many. These brands have an aspirational What is coming up during 2013 for John Patrick effect on people that a lot of other brands don’t. We Prestige Cars? find that customers will come in and say to us, “I have We are establishing another car yard at the old always wanted to own a Jag”. It is always rewarding wrecking site on Hastings River Drive, where we to give customers that satisfaction of obtaining their will stock between 80 -100 used cars. I believe dream car. it is important to keep growing along with Port What can we look forward to from Jaguar over Macquarie, which is getting larger and larger. It the next two years? has taken twenty years to be able to establish The new ‘F Type’, which is the new Jaguar another yard, and we are looking forward to many sports car, is to be released in August this year. Our more years to come, growing with the area and dealership will only get one for the year; that’s how continuing to provide an outstanding level of service high the demand has been internationally, throughout and choice to our customers. the US and Europe. The great part about Jaguars Thanks John.

“

focusinterview.

R NE COR

Steve Lynn.

What started rted out as an idea for Christmas presents grew into an all consuming passion for Steve.

His fascination with the intricate process of light playing through glass has seen his collection grow in scope ...

hat originally brought you to Port Macquarie – or were you born and bred here?

I had just done 43,000 km in 9 months working with computers from Newcastle to Wollongong to the Blue Mountains and needed some changes in my life, so I escaped the rat race in 2000 in a motorhome.

I planned on 2 years travel around Australia but circumstances changed and I only visited a couple of places on the way up the coast, arriving in Port Macquarie, where I touched base with a few friends, ending up selling the RV and buying a unit and settling down. And I’m glad I did, having just married a beautiful local lady, Wendy.

How did your fascination with paperweights begin?

I started by buying gifts for Christmas 2007 (paperweights) and loved them lined up on my TV cabinet waiting to be wrapped, so I went back and bought myself 8 more. I quickly figured (not sure why) that a large number was a good thing and knowing nothing about the ancients or the art or class of the old school, I started with modern weights available through gift shops in our area.

Our local area is not a bastion for paperweights and I had the choice of Chinese or Chinese. Not to put too fine a point on it, I started with modern Chinese weights. Then I discovered op shops, antique stores and markets and branched out into more, you guessed it, Chinese weights, with the odd import from Scotland, America or home grown in Australia. I started collecting Australian Art Glass a year ago, as I was fascinated by the level of expertise and the unique pieces our own artists were producing.

Describe the very first paperweight you consciously ‘collected’ – what does it look like, 14 greater port macquarie focus.

and when and how did you acquire it?

I remember two weights I intentionally sought, as they are representative of our Australian artists.

In the photos I hold ‘Tangerine Dream’ by Kent Le Grand and ‘Inland Orb’ by Marc Kalifa. Kent persevered with one arm (no mean feat with the rigours of glass blowing) to produce that beautiful feathered spiral, and Marc has captured the inland of Australia in a series of vases, bowls and weights with the vibrant clashes of colour we often witness.

What types of materials are your paperweights mostly constructed from?

I collect only glass items, as it allows the full palette of colours to be reflected or magnified by the medium. The formula for glass varies for individual makers and is a closely guarded secret.

Paperweights can be glass, ceramic, wood, metal, even paper, plastic and weighted cloth, but for me, nothing compares to light through glass.

Is your collection still growing these days, and where do you find is the best place to source the items?

Yes, It is still growing but because of display constraints, it will soon become a matter of one purchase, one sale (or 1 in 1 out) − radical but necessary. Most items are from auction houses or online auctions such as eBay. I still trawl antique and second hand shops, but only buy bargains.

I funded a lot from selling stuff I found in my garage. It is a low budget collection.

What can you tell readers about the history of paperweights – do you know where/when some of the earliest ones date from, and during which era they were most popular, for example?

There are two eras in which paperweights were produced: the ‘classical’ period, 1845 to 1860, and the modern period, from about 1950 to the present day. The antiques were produced mostly in three factories in France: Baccarat, St. Louis, and Clichy. The original French glass paperweight

passion lasted about 25 years; after which, the objects fell out of vogue, and the intricate process for creating them was virtually lost.

Then in the 1950s, Paul Jokelson, an enthusiastic collector of antique weights, convinced the factories from his native France to re-invent the technique. The result is a renaissance of the most difficult of all glass art forms − the contemporary glass paperweight, which in many ways exceeds the brilliance and complexity of its predecessors. Great Britain, Europe and America started producing high quality weights as well. Art glass in Australia really commenced in the ’70s after visits from prominent American artists running workshops that produced some very talented Australians. Some prominent glass blowers migrated and further swelled our talent pool.

If you had to nominate a piece in your collection that was a favourite – what would it be?

See the photo of the vase covered with vines and roses. It was made by Martini Australia in 1995. It’s more like a usable sculpture and is 11" high. Martini Australia was the business name of a partnership between Mark Galton and Tina Cooper from the early to mid-1990s operating firstly out of the craft works in the Old Ginger Factory at Buderim and then later at the Treehaven Way Studio at Maleny, both in SE Qld. Both artists have gone on to successful individual careers. It is a time capsule from a short creative period in the ’90s.

Are you a member of any collectors clubs or groups?

I’m a member of the Paperweight Collectors Association, NZ/Aust branch and am a member of Glass Forums & Glass Message Board on the internet. Several of my weights have been used as illustrations in articles on ‘Paperweights of Australia’ by our NZ President in PCA yearly bulletins. I also rely on an extensive resource library of books and magazines for info.

How relevant do you feel paperweights are in modern times – are they still readily manufactured and available these days?

They are no longer really used to stop paper from blowing off the desk, but they can be. They have now been elevated to objects of beauty, conversation starters and the basis of rewarding collections. My collection of paperweights and art glass now seeks to show some of the huge number of Australian glass artist and their skills. I also have paperweights from Britain, Europe, USA, NZ and some really nice ones from China. They continue to be manufactured in a huge variety, all over the globe.

What’s a piece you’d love to have in your collection, but haven’t been able to source yet?

I have had in mind to collect at least one piece from each glass artist in Australia but as there are well over 400 individual artists, I know that it is a very tall order and probably not possible as artists come and go, and many works just disappear. I would love a representative piece from those I haven’t collected yet: a quirky perfume bottle by Nick Mount, a unique creation by Emma Varga, Tina Cooper or a fish perfume bottle by Richard Clements, would be amongst them.

You can see some of my collection at www. paperweightpassion.com I would love to start a 'glass appreciation group' and meet locals interested in Glass, Australian Art Glass and Paperweights. If you are interested, you can contact me through the website.

Thanks Steve. Interview by Jo Atkins.

are you a collector?

We want to know about you! Let us know what you collect, and you might just be our next Collectors Corner guest! e. louise@focusmag.com.au ph. (02) 6584 7433.

Video OF THE

13:37

Kempsey Bypass Project

BY THE

NUMBERS

MONTH

Watch on your smartphone

VIDEO BY: FocusTV.

14.5 length of highway in kilometres.

3.2 length of bridge in kilometres. The longest bridge in Australia.

941 concrete beams each weighing 85 tonnes, supported by 93 piers.

21,000 tonnes of Australian Steel.

38,000 m3 of concrete. $618 million dollars to construct.

709 workers on site.

Source:www.rta.nsw.gov.au

ABOUT: With things heating up in Federal Politics and an election date annouced, we catch up with Federal Member Rob Oakeshott in the FOCUS Studio.

WATCH AT: youtu.be/ISWHJh2Qoe4

LOCAL

READ Title. Outback Fear.

Local Author. Suzanne Brandyn.

Outback Fear is a story of one woman's courage to fight back, a story of redemption and newfound love.

How far would you go to protect yourself and your three month old daughter? For Savannah Harris, running is no longer an option. There are no choices left. The time has arrived to stand her ground.

Available online at Amazon, in e-format and print, and also at most online book stores. Outback Fear is Suzanne's 5th published novel. You can find out more about her work at www.suzannebrandyn.com

Image of the month.

About: The photo was taken up at Middle Brother Mountain. Me and my sister

with Eric from www.theotherchef.com.au

WH

were having a picnic and a couple of kookaburras were hanging around us, eyeing off our food. With the view in the back, I thought it made for the perfect shot!

Photo by: Marnie Lindfield . Shot on: Nikon D3100 with an 18 - 55 mm lens.

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

AT ’ S I N

focusreview.

GALANGAL Wh W While h the native ti h habitat b of galangal is China, it has been used in n Europe Europ pe as a spice for over a thousand years. In Russia it is used us ed d for or flavouring vinegar and in India, the oil of galangal is valu va lue ued in perfumery. Most of us know it as a staple ingredient valued of SSouth outh ou outh t EEast Asian curries, stews, satays and soups.

Ga Gala laang gal a h Galangal has a unique, exotic flavour – something like a mixture of g ingeer, in r, sour lemon and pepper. It has a sharp, strong aroma ginger, and an d hot, ho ot, clean c taste.

A re rela lati la tive tive v of ginger, with a knobbly root-like appearance, relative gala ga lang ngaal ng al has h a thicker reddish skin and creamy-white coloured galangal fles fl sh. The The skin is usually peeled or scrubbed away, then the esh. flesh e h is ssliced es lliic or grated very finely.

LLook Lo ok ffor or firm galangal with pinkish stems – and store in the frid fr idge for o up to 2 - 3 weeks. fridge

WHERE

with Julie from www.gourmetgetaways.com.au

local dr p.

Cassegrain Stone Circle Shiraz Viognier 2011

This is a gorgeous full flavoured wine which has benefited from the big body flavour of the Shiraz and the lovely blackcurrant, chocolate and floral aroma of the Viognier. The wine is dark plum in colour with a lush, silky smooth palate.

A smooth, easy drinking red with beautiful berry flavours and a sweet vanilla oak finish. It is ideally balanced and a wine which matches well with food.

GOES WITH: Eye fillet, spiced duck.

COST: $14.95 or club member price $11.95.

AVAILABLE: All good bottle shops or online at www.cassegrainwines.com.au

Galangal is grown locally in Soms vegetable garden at Bago Vineyards and is available to buy at Ken Little Fruit & Veg in Port Macquarie.

greater port macquarie focus 15

Gunna the goanna's big ideas.

A Truly Local Art Exhibition

The Players Theatre Peter Dransfield, Player's Theatre President, and all the cast and crew wish to thank everyone for coming to see Lance Thompson’s production of The Butler Did It, which had everybody totally entertained.

Now the Players Theatre is ready to take off with their next production, the comedy Boeing-Boeing, which will check in on April 26 and fly until May 11 for eleven performances of high flying action and laughs.

After Boeing-Boeing you can catch the One Act Play Festival, June 7 - 9, which will see a diverse range of one act plays being performed by local and visiting community theatre groups.

If you enjoy seeing nuns on the run, then you’ll get a chance to make a habit of it with the next installment, Nunsense II The Second Coming, July 5 - 28. The original Players cast will be returning to the stage with all the bizarre happenings of Little Sisters of Hoboken in this international comedy musical.

Steel Magnolias is already a classic, and our production will run September 6 - 22 under the direction of Sue Morvan. This play has both pathos and comedy and revolves around Truvy's Beauty Parlor in a small parish in modern-day Louisiana.

Players will end 2013 on a high note, with the blockbuster musical Chicago, November 8 - December 8. The Players Theatre Costume Hire has a huge range of weird and wonderful outfits perfect for that fancy dress party or fundraiser ball! Ever dreamed of volunteering in local theatre? Just drop into the Theatre at 33a Lord Street, Port Macquarie.

See you at Players Theatre soon- and don’t forget the new website! www.playerstheatre.org.au

Another set of talented 'Truly Local' artists will have their artworks displayed at Long Point Vineyard during March. Freud the fraud! INSIDE - OUTSIDE, the new exhibition now featuring at Long Point Vineyard, doesn't at all fit the noted psychoanalyst theories. There are no repressed sexual fantasies; however, there could be a smidge of truth in Linda Lockyer's personality reflected in her exuberant, colourful, uninhibited use of acrylic paint on large canvases.

The Tinytoreum T Children of all ages will enjoy the adventures of 'Gunna the goanna', the inventive, fictional animal character that is central to a new exhibition, The Tinytoreum, at Glasshouse Port Macquarie, which shows tiny museum treasures that inspired the tales of 'Gunna'.

The Tinytoreum, a travelling exhibition from the Powerhouse Museum, features children’s tales and illustrations by author Jackie French and illustrator Bruce Whatley. Renowned for their much-loved Shaggy Gully children’s books, French and Whatley have created exciting tales about some of their fictional animal characters from the series, inspired by over 50 rare and intriguing objects from the Powerhouse Museum’s collection.

The Tinytoreum is the second exhibition in the Powerhouse Museum’s Odditoreum series of collection-based displays for families featuring Australian artists and authors, launched in 2009.

The Tinytoreum will be on view at the Glasshouse Regional Gallery from Friday 16 March and runs until 27 April 2013.

A free ‘Grand Opening’ family-friendly event will be held from 11am - 1pm on Saturday 16 March 2013.

Top Image Credit: Toy `Nautilus' submarine, painted tin plate with clockwork motor (made in association with Walt Disney, USA by Sutcliffe Pressings Ltd, Leeds, England), 1950-1959; and Netsuke, Japanese toggle, ‘Mermaid’, ivory (maker unknown, Japan), 1700-1900. Photo: Sotha Bourn, Powerhouse Museum.

E FR

E

Illustration by Bruce Whatley for The Tinytoreum.

@

* Face painting * jumping castle * art activities * * book readings * goodie bags A travelling exhibition developed by the Powerhouse Museum Museum.

GLASSHOUSE REGIONAL GALLERY SATURDAY 16 MARCH, 11am - 1pm 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au 16

greater port macquarie focus.

And perhaps the precise reading and expression of body language in Jen Andrews 'studies' says something as well. "Her metacognative Study of a Study blew me away when I first saw it," said Graeme, owner of Long Point Vineyard. Put more plainly, the paintings are very good and well worth a squiz along with our jewellery artists and woodcraftsmen.

Linda Lockyer is an artist who lives on a farm near the township of Walcha in the New England district of NSW. Her paintings are colourful, textured and reflect her love of the Australian lifestyle and landscape, particularly the gorge country near Walcha and also the beautiful coastal township of Bonny Hills, which is like a second home to her family.

Jennifer Andrews was born in Birmingham, England, and migrated to Australia when she was 10 years old. Since moving to Port Macquarie, Jen has joined the Art society and won several awards and commendations for her art. Using only pastels to complete her paintings, her artworks are detailed and depict real life scenes.

Don't miss out on a visit to Long Point Vineyard this March to view the beautiful INSIDE - OUTSIDE exhibition.

focusinterview.

The extremely talented winner of the Kendall National Violin Competition, James Dong has bright future ahead of him. At just 19 years of age, James is used to performing under pressure and hopes one day to pass on his musical knowledge to others.

You can see James perform at the Kendall School of Arts this month ...

J a m e s

H

i James. Whereabouts do you call home?

I was born in Melbourne, where I received all my initial musical training. In 2011, I moved up to Sydney to study, but Melbourne will always be home.

When were you first introduced to the violin, and how old were you when you began to play?

I began learning the piano at age 5, and my father decided that I should also take up the violin, since he had aspirations for me to become a conductor one day. Hence in later years, I also took up the saxophone and drums.

Where do you currently study music, and who are your teachers?

I am currently studying under Professor Ole Bohn at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

I first met him in the 2010 KNVC, where he was a jury member and although I didn’t win, I think he liked the way I played. My teacher then, Robert Wakely, was very keen for me to learn under Ole and really helped me a lot with my audition preparation for Sydney Conservatorium.

Describe your experience in the Kendall National Violin Competition recently. What pieces did you play, and how tough was the competition?

I played the Adagio and Fuga from Bach’s C major solo sonata, Wilfred Lehman’s Soliloquy, the Strauss violin sonata, and the Introduction and Tarantella by Sarasate. My repertoire for the semifinals was actually quite different, even though it didn’t need to be, because this time at KNVC I wanted to show as much of me as possible to the judges.

I don’t think the competition has even been tougher or more daunting for me. In 2010 I was the youngest competitor at age 17; however only 2 years later I am the oldest competitor by far! There is a lot of young talent in Australia, especially Sydney, and it was a new experience

I don’ t think the s competition ha or r he even been toug for me. In more daunting ungest 2010 I was the yo 17; e competitor at ag ars ye however, only 2 st de ol e th later I am r!” competitor by fa

D o n g

“

for me to be competing with the cream of the crop.

How did you feel when you were told you’d won the competition?

Relieved! This was my third time trying out at the KNVC, and the third time did indeed prove to be a charm. In the past I had participated in a lot of string and violin competitions and was always taking 2nd place or being a finalist. By the age of 19 and with the rest of the world achieving wonders at age 11, I was beginning to feel lost.

I didn’t know what I was doing wrong and why I could never take home the grand prize.

I feel that in the last two years my teacher, Ole Bohn, has worked really hard to bring out the best in me. The learning environment in Sydney Con has also contributed to my growth as a musician. Playing amongst some of the best players in Australia and watching them in performance really inspired me and motivated me to work harder than ever.

Who are some of your favourite composers, and why do you admire them?

Bach is right at the top for me. He has been my silent instructor since I started my musical studies, teaching me to figure out the answers as well as the questions in a piece of music. His music can be sophisticated, romantic, and pure; it really is multifaceted.

In recent years I have begun to appreciate Schubert’s music. Perhaps this came late to me because all his major works for violin are very mature and not really found in the exam syllabus; in fact, I had never even heard a Schubert violin piece until I was 18! I will be playing his Rondo in B minor in the upcoming concerts in Nambucca Heads and Kendall. This piece really exemplifies his harmonic genius; the unexpected and fast paced modulations were

radical and electrifying in his day and still are 200 years later.

I hear you’re interested in composing as well. Tell us about some of the pieces you’ve written – are they just for strings, or full orchestral works – and have they achieved any recognition in musical circles?

I am not very active in composition now, but I have written a few pieces, all for piano. I don’t have a true style in composition, because I think that it is important to have a firm grasp of the basics before moving on. I spend a lot of time on one composition, sometimes dwelling on an idea for up to two years. All my compositions have won 1st place in regional competitions, but I don’t think I will take it further just yet, as competitions these days specifically want you to be original ...

What are your future aspirations – where would you like to see your musical talent take you?

I aspire to become a professor in a well known music institution, just like my teacher. I think it would be a very rewarding experience, and I am thankful to have teachers like Ole who don’t withhold anything from their musical knowledge to their students.

What do you feel it takes to be an accomplished violinist?

To me, it simply boils down to having good parents who ingrain good habits into you.

I am fortunate that my parents were strict, but not over controlling. Going out a lot with friends and listening to popular music wasn’t forbidden, but was definitely frowned upon.

Not enough practice would result in the banning of my Gameboy (which I wish never existed, because goodness knows how many hours I wasted playing that damn thing!)

I soon learnt the difference between right and wrong, and I think that’s what has gotten me this far. Of course, I might have achieved more had my parents stopped all forms of education apart from music and forced me to practice 8 hours a day, but is that really what music is about?

You’re giving two recitals with the talented piano accompanist Jeanell Carrigan in Nambucca Heads (Entertainment Centre) and Kendall (School of Arts) on March 23 and 24 respectively. How much are you looking forward to these performances?

I am really honoured to give these two recitals with Jeanell. Recitals like these are the true prizes in competitions; there is so much to look forward to, so much to prepare, and so much music for everyone to enjoy.

Since I commenced my studies in Sydney, I have only ever played with Jeanell; she really is one of the best in Australia. Furthermore, her partnership with Goetz Richter in duo playing really inspires me to play better.

Thanks James. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

You can see James perform at Nambucca Heads on March 23 or in Kendall on March 24 at 2pm. www.kendallviolin.org.au or call Mavis Barnes on 6559 4339 for tickets.

greater port macquarie focus 17

His History The Easter Story

April 20 at the Glasshouse.

The fourth annual History Easter program is coming up again this month.

Diesel The Velvet Curtain Tour With a career spanning 25 years (35 for DIESEL embarking on a juggernaut solo singles, 13 albums, 6 ARIA awards) and tour ... a tour that will establish him as a solo record sales edging 1 million, DIESEL, performer. Eight years on, and DIESEL has the journeyman of music, is on evolved into a solo artist of great his way to some very special diversity. venues in select regional Alongside the hits and rarities areas with The Velvet DIESEL has people have grown to blended all Curtain Tour. expect from an artist of With Blues music in his 'DNA', an influence largely from his father’s record collection, DIESEL has blended all styles to come up with a truly unique sound, punctuated with his distinct guitar playing and vocals.

“ styles to come up

ue with a truly uniq ed at tu nc pu d, un so with his distinct d guitar playing an vocals.”

Rewind to 2005 … Singled Out is released – a solo live recording which is the catalyst

18 greater port macquarie focus.

longevity, DIESEL blends his influences by also playing tracks from Jimi Hendrix, Otis Redding, Neil Young (to name a few). Combined with the unique ‘theatre’ environment, it makes for an all encompassing musical experience.

Tickets – (02) 6581 8888 or www.glasshouse.org.au

This dramatic outdoor presentation of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus will be held from March 24 to 26 on the grounds of the Port Macquarie Adventist school. His Story, Our Story takes people on a journey through time, retelling the original Easter story. Upon arrival, the public enter a This interactive 'Bible village' depicting en pres tation will , life 2,000 years ago and appeal to all agesds entertaining them with with sights, souning various activities while and smells mak e they wait for their tour to it an unforgettabl begin. experience.”

“

There is food available for purchase also. Then the actual walk-through goes from scene to scene that acts out the events associated with the life of Jesus. Along the way, people will meet shepherds, disciples and Roman soldiers, amongst others. Tours will run regularly throughout each evening, and the program is repeated over three nights.

This interactive presentation will appeal to all ages, with sights, sounds and smells making it an unforgettable experience. Locally

developed and presented by members and friends of the Seventh-day Adventist church, it is now an annual event on the local calendar.

The gates to the ‘Bible village’ will open from 6pm, and tours run regularly throughout the evening.

Entry is free, but because there are limited numbers for each tour group, bookings are essential to reserve your tour time. Also, by booking beforehand, people will have a better idea of when to turn up on the evening. For all bookings and inquiries, call 6582 6561. The venue is at Port Adventist Primary School, 500 Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie.

focusinterview.

Registered Clubs in the Port Macquarie-Hastings area make a real difference to the community. In 2012, our Local Club Grants Committee gave over $100,000 in grants to C ccommunity groups, welfare and charity organisations.

Port Macquarie-Hastings

Local

Club G r a n t s

O

rganisations such as Life Education NSW, Cerebral Palsy Alliance, Grandparents as Parents Again, Hastings Community FM Radio Association, Rollands Plains Progress Association and Parkinsons NSW, PMQ Support Group are just a few of the organisations that benefit from the support provided through the ClubGRANTS scheme.

What is ClubGRANTS? ‘ClubGRANTS’ is designed to ensure that qualified registered clubs in NSW contribute to the provision of front-line services to their local communities and to ensure that the disadvantaged in the community are better positioned to benefit from the substantial contributions made by those clubs.

ClubGRANTS also facilitates contributions, by larger clubs, towards infrastructure to support sporting, health and community activities.

Our Port Macquarie-Hastings Local ClubGRANTS Committee funding is made up from each Club contributing a percentage of their Category 1 budget to the Local Committee grants process.

The Clubs who contribute to the Local Committee include: The Westport Club; Port City Bowling Club; Port Macquarie Panthers; Laurieton United Services Club; North Haven Bowling Club; and Wauchope RSL Club.

Who can apply?

There are two categories of funding available, each with specific categories.

Category 1 funding is available for specific

local community priorities such as community welfare and social services, community development, community health services and employment assistance activities.

The funding round for the 2013 grants from our Port Macquarie-Hastings Local Club Grants Committee opens on 11 March and closes on 30 April.

Applications are to be submitted online through the SmartyGrants link – http:// ClubGRANTS-SmartyGrants.smartygrants.com. au/pmqhastingscat12013 Funded projects cannot commence prior to July each year and must be completed by June the following year.

Category 2 funding is focused on core activities (such as an RSL supporting veteran’s welfare) and traditional area of club expenditure, such as support for sport and recreations groups. For assistance under Category 2, organisations can contact their local club directly.

Who has it helped before?

Two specific examples that come to mind are: Autism Spectrum Australia, Aspect Satellite Class in Port Macquarie, and Life Education Australia.

The Autism Spectrum Australia, Aspect Satellite Class in Port Macquarie received a grant of $2,594 to create a dramatic play area for children with Autism.

It is an extremely important part of development in all children (especially those with an Autism Spectrum Disorder) to be given daily opportunities to express emotions and develop social skills through supported

play. Supporting dramatic play for children develop their skills to exercise real choice and with an ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) is a make informed, healthy lifestyle decisions. challenging task but can be successful with the Who is behind it and making it happen? right strategies and resources.

The Local Committee is made up of The funding purchases a range of resources, representatives from each of the Clubs such as home corner furniture mentioned. I have chaired the and equipment, dress ups, Committee for the past 3 multicultural dolls and years. In addition, several theme boxes. All of this community representatives Our Port equipment is used have an advisory role Macquariedaily by the children, on the committee.

Hastings Local ee which helps them itt They provide valuable m m ClubGRANTS Co from express themselves. assistance in developing up e funding is mad g tin bu ri “I was fortunate local priorities and have nt co each Club r ei th of to visit the school first hand knowledge ge ta a percen to the et dg bu 1 and witness the of what is currently ry go Cate grants ee itt m m Co students interacting happening in the l ca Lo with each other and community. process.” their teachers whilst Why is it an important using the resources. It was community project for The truly amazing watching them Westport Club? play and seeing how this has helped The Westport Club’s vision is to them open up and interact socially. I felt make a significant contribution to the so proud to know that we’ve made a quality of community life. Our Club has difference.” focused much of its community support in Life Education Australia is the largest nonproviding tools to help local schools and government provider of health education to community groups improve literacy amongst children and young people. the youth in our region.

They received a $5,400 grant to fund Contributing to the Local ClubGRANTS a specific school program which reached Committee is a continuation of living our 4,028 Port Macquarie-Hastings primary vision and extending our reach to the local school students in 2012. All students who community. attended the program received a workbook for Jenny Edmunds, continued learning in the classroom, to help Marketing Coordinator, The Westport Club. build their capability to challenge their values Chair, Port Macquarie-Hastings Local and attitudes, expand their knowledge and ClubGRANTS Committee.

“

greater port macquarie focus 19

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focusinterview.

RobOakeshott.

With things heating up in Federal Politics ics and an ith Federal election date annouced, we catch up with udio. Below Member Rob Oakeshott in the FOCUS Studio. vailable via is just an excerpt of the full interview available the QR code.

F

ederal politics aside, and we’ll get to that, you’ve had a lot of big wins for the area. Tell us a bit about them ...

Two universities coming to town is big.

Thee airports; Kempsey, Port Macquarie and Taree all have funding and are all in the process of rolling out. There is about $30 million of road funding into the Manning.

The NBN is rolling out in the Manning. The hospitals at Kempsey and Port Macquarie; that’s $190 million of hospital funding.

Foreshore works in Port Macquarie, in Taree; they have $2 million each. Cattai Wetlands in the Manning got $2 million, and that’s a really fantastic project that sits nicely alongside the funding for the Lake Innes reversion project that’s currently going on. Pacific Highway funding: we brought forward the Port Macquarie to Kempsey section of the Pacific Highway. The biggest bridge in Australia is just about to be completed. Things like the Mental Health Headspace program has come to town.

Do you want me to keep going? (Laughs.)

Now, if you weren't the member, would we have got all those things?

That’s a questions for others to answer.

You haven’t announced you’re running yet, but assuming you are, the bookies have you at $10. Should we bet on you?

(Laughs.) That’s up to you! I think it’s fair to say that I’m the underdog, even after 15 years in public life. I have no problems being at $10, at all. Anyone who lives here and knows this area well would say in a two horse race at the moment, that is some pretty rough odds. By all means if you want to, get your money on.

I’ll keep focused on doing the job. Personally, I don’t like betting on politics. I think it’s incredibly dangerous and a bit of a reflection of some of the stuff that’s going on in sport at the moment; it’s not helpful.

You’ve been in politics for 16 years. What have been the highs and lows?

The highs are always the results based projects locally. And as well, I would add to that it’s a very rare privilege in this business to go inside a lot of people’s lives and hopes and be in a trusted environment where you work on some very personal things at times. They’re the highs: when you can help one person

with one particular thing that is their business and something they’re struggling with.

The lows are the whole walking dartboard thing. I struggle with that. I know a lot of people try and say I love the limelight, but it’s not a comfortable and natural space for me.

That takes getting used to. Talkback radio hosts tearing you apart. You never get used to that, nor do you ask for any of that.

Assuming you’re running, what sort of message would you give to the electorate about going forward ... what your plans would be?

Results beat insults. There is a track record of results in the local area. I think that the campaign that’s going to be run against me, “ I know a lot of yI if I do run, will be one people try and sa , but saying, “You don’t love the limelight back locally; what are know what you get le s not a comfortab it’ some of the changes with an Independant; ral space for tu na d an we might see? you do know what you The first thing I would ” e. m get with the Nationals”. encourage everyone to do And I agree with that. is jump on the internet and You do know what you get. hit the Tax Offi ce tax list and see It’s not much. There is 60 years if you can fi nd the word Carbon.

It that they had an opportunity to really doesn’t exist.

So try and put to bed some of build this area, build communities and make that mythology that this is a Carbon Tax. It is a us a regional leadership location. I’m happy market and a trading scheme within a market. to match all of that in the 4 years that we What’s a really good practical example of have been trying a different approach to that locally would be the Port Macquarie Tip, government. We’ve been very successful in where it’s close over the next 5 years of being some of the results we’ve had locally. over the 25,000 tonnes per annum emissions.

As well, in the 44th Parliament I think there So local Council has some decisions to make. is some unfinished business on some national They either pay as the consequence of doing reform issues. It’s not just the local (issues). nothing, go over that limit and they have to Comprehensive tax reform has to happen. buy permits out of the scheme based on the Constitutional recognition of Aboriginal market price.

Or, they innovate.

And that’s people is going to happen in the next 2 years. exactly what they’re doing.

I’d love to be part of that discussion and help The Council is now looking at bringing drive that one home. The education policy forward a project for methane capture and nationally, picking up on some of the good storage, which gets them away from that stuff we’ve been doing locally as an example, 25,000 tonnes per annum limit and stops is something where we’ve had some wins and them from having to pay that premium – and would love to do more work on. There are in fact, allows them to make some money just three national issues where there is plenty from that capital investment in generating of unfinished work, and we want to keep electricity and potentially covering the tip’s driving it. electricity costs.

On to climate change policy. I really don’t It brings forward innovation and investment have my head around it and would guess to avoid a price point and having to pay a a lot of people don’t. Try and bring it

premium as a consequence. The global good gets served by doing that, but also there is some local good as well, because you’ll have some cheaper tip rates.

What’s a big project you're working on locally that we might not know about?

In Port Macquarie, the testing lab is right next to the sewage pits, so you can’t actually do much testing of things like food. So we’re working on trying to move that and get a big upgrade. There is an application for about $4 million in with the Federal Government on that.

Likewise in Taree, a big project is the equivalent of a university campus right in the middle of the Taree CBD – so a $5 - 7 million project right in the heart of town to upgrade education facilities there.

They’re the two biggest I’m working on and hope to bring home.

Thanks Rob.

the video.

To watch the full length interview visit www.focustv.com.au/rob Or use a QR code reader to visit the video on your Smartphone or iPad.

greater port macquarie focus 21

22 greater port macquarie focus.

greater port macquarie focus 23

Greater Port Macquarie

Mocha Crème Brûlée from Scampis Seafood and Grill

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

eat.

Seared scallops, jamon ham crumbs, sherry caramel, confit bacon and cauliflower puree.

Zebu bar + grill

Café BUZZ is now in its 10th year in the Hastings area. Thank you to everyone who has walked through our doors and shared their time with us.

Here is a perfect lunch for you to share. Firstly, a selection of our daily fresh made dips. These will vary from day to day and café to café. You may have pesto, hummus, roasted capsicum and mint, olive tapenade, sundried tomato tapenade, feta lemon and mint, or broad bean and ricotta. Three of these served with genuine Turkish bread, toasted.

After your selection of dips … enjoy a selection of delicious cakes. A revolving array of yummies that will pleasure your palate.

A cup of BUZZ coffee, and the day now smiles at you. BUZZ coffee is the taste on coffee lovers’ lips …with over 23 to choose from, everyone will be BUZZed!

Escape the crazy weather and grind of the everyday with a relaxing drink and bite to eat on the foreshore at Zebu!

! CELEB R RS

ING 10 YE AT

10 YEARS

AR

S! C E L E B R

Port Macquarie: Grant St (opposite library) t 6583 5756.

The Marina t 6583 6767. Peachtree Walk (CBD) t 65 83 7979 Laurieton: Bold St t 6559 7744 w www.buzzcoffee.com.au

ING 10 YEA AT

Café Buzz

Ocean Breeze Café & Catering

Inside Port City Bowling Club 4 Owen Street, Port Macquarie t 6583 1133 open Menu available from 10am - 8pm daily.

Cake and coffee served all day.

If doing breakfast is more your thing – chillax on the water with our NEW RISE BUFFET BREAKFAST– a huge gourmet selection, fresh juices, wheat grass, scrummy smoothies, extra yummy buffet goodies and made-to-order treats! 6:30am – 10am everyday!

Executive Chef Adam Tait.

Breakfast - Coffee - Cocktails - Steaks - Seafood 10 Tap Beers - Wood Fire Pizzas

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

Bar open noon daily. Bookings recommended.

open Breakfast and lunch.

Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, lunch- or coffee and a sweet treat- the Ocean Breeze Café has something for everyone.

Fresh seafood will be the highlight of the Ocean Breeze menu over Easter, with Oysters and Barramundi on offer. Modern dishes with locally sourced produce, prime cut steaks and home-made cakes and desserts are also some of the favourites.

Having a function? We can customise a package to suit your needs, including gluten-free and other dietary requirements.

Kylie and the Ocean Breeze team cater for all special occasions, so come in for a cuppa and a chat today.

Pop into our bar and enjoy a cocktail or two, or reserve your waterfront table in our cosy grill to experience contemporary coastal dining at its best.

Waterfront Restaurant What a great time of year to make the most of our beautiful view over the Hastings River by booking a table on the balcony.

Our menu includes sumptuous steaks, fresh seafood, hand-made desserts and many other options. Our seafood platter for two is packed with a wide variety of hot and cold seafood and has proved very popular. This platter must be pre-ordered, so please be sure to request it when making your booking (minimum 24 hours' notice required).

Owner Kylie and Chef Rachael.

The Waterfront Restaurant is also available for functions. Choose from a set

Inside and outside dining.

course menu, buffet or finger food. No room hire charge.

(Conditions apply.) Please contact us for further information.

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

Dinner: Monday - Saturday, 6pm - late. Please call 6583 1944 to make a reservation.

greater port macquarie focus 25

eat.

Grilled pepper crusted Barramundi, on a green salad bed with Roma bruschetta and a duo drizzle of balsamic glaze and lime infused hollandaise.

Rich Chocolate Tart with Vanilla Cream

Wauchope Country Club Just a five minute walk from the CBD, and what awaits you is a breathtaking oasis, a place to meet friends, to enjoy a coffee or a cold refreshment or a place to select a meal from our popular Hook N Slice menu ...

Monday – $10 steak night; Tuesday – $8 lunches; Thursday – $9 schnitzel night; Friday, Saturday and Sunday – select from our blackboard specials.

QuayLime Port Macquarie’s newest and freshest café/restaurant, Quaylime, is now open!

Serving mouthwatering meals for breakfast, lunch, morning and afternoon teas. Fresh roasted coffee, local gourmet produce, breakfast platters, gourmet cheese and antipasto plates, picnic hampers and so much more.

Open for Dinner Thursday - Saturday from 5.30pm; bookings recommended.

The Wauchope Country Club Chefs

King Street, Wauchope t 6585 3020 w www.wauchopecountryclub.com.au

Quaylime is now open!

Fully licensed.

Shop 9/18 Park St, The Marina, Port Macquarie t 6584 4039

Quaylime R E S TA U R A N T

open 7 days. Mon - Sun, lunch 11.30 - 2.30ish.

Dinner 5.30 - 8.30ish.

open 7 days: Mon - Wed 7am - 4pm, Thurs - Sat 7am - late and Sundays 7.30am - 5pm

Confit pork belly, parsnip mustard, baked apple, baby carrots, cider jus.

Off the Hook

Bluewater Bar and Restaurant

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

There is always something happening at Bluewater.

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.

Come in and experience our wonderful new menu.

Lunches – Tuesday to Friday $15.

Happy hour 3pm to 4pm – $5 Coronas and Peroni, $10 beer jugs, and $10 cocktails.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday after 4pm are our extra special nights; pay just $9.90 for two fillets of fish and chips.

There’s nothing better than a meal by the edge of the beautiful Hastings River.

Wednesday – $15 Steak Night Thursdays – Kids eat free with each adult meal.

The friendly staff.

Live music Friday nights and Sunday afternoons. Courtesy bus available.

Join us on Facebook at Bluewater Bar, or check our web page at: www.bluewbar.com.au for all the latest info.

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

EFTPOS available; phone orders welcome.

26 greater port macquarie focus.

Ocean Street, Flynns Beach Resort t 6583 5730 or 6583 9073 open 7 days: Monday, 3pm - late.

Tuesday to Sunday, 10am - late.

Wolfgang, Young blood & Mr McQuaid.

eat.

focusinterview.

Scampis Seafood Bar & Grill Fresh seafood, fine wine and beautiful views.....

Steve T o t t o n

Doesn't that sound nice. Give yourself a night off or treat your loved one to a romantic dinner for two. Scampis Seafood Bar and Grill has the perfect setting for any lunch or dinner situation, whether it be with your workmates for a quick lunch out of the office or family dinner with the uncles and aunts Scampis has a menu that will delight them all.

Takeaway or dine in.

Booking for Friday, Saturday nights are preferred.

Fresh cocktails and cold beer.

Owners Mark and Jackie Holt.

Head Chef Steven Totton from the Wauchope Country Club talks to us about the new look Hook ‘n’ Slice Bistro and menu items that are a must have next time you dine with them.

T

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

Breakfast Saturdays and Sundays only.

ell us about your background in undergone a lot of changes and revamped the hospitality industry? the menu in the bistro. What were the I was born in Dunedin, reasons behind this?

New Zealand and served my The Country Club has seen a revamp and apprenticeship in La Scala Dunedin. I’m the bistro has had a complete face lift, with the a member of the world class Master Chefs help of our local artist, Fiona Muras. I looked Association. I have 35 years’ experience in the at the club and realised it needed urgent TLC. industry and have worked in London, New Changes were put in place ... menus produced.

Zealand, Canada, the USA and Australia.

With the support of members, this bistro has What have been some of the most exciting moved ahead in leaps and bounds. I have a places to work? brilliant team of chefs who have restaurant flair I’ve worked in fine dining restaurants, and imagination and an exceptional talented clubs and cafés. I also worked for Qantas apprentice. and British Airways. I was Head Chef for the What are some of the favourites on the Canberra Raiders football club and Head menu?

Chef at the famous Bacio Café in the QVB in The lunch time dish that takes the cake Sydney and Executive Chef of the would have to be our Caesar chicken famous Canarvon Station Turkish. We have brilliant in New Zealand. Back in pastas, and our specials I was the 1990s, I was Head board changes every week. e b inspired to g Chef at Cray’s Seafood Grilled Baramundi with n u o a chef at the y I Restaurant here in garlic prawns and lime en h age of 12, w Army Port Macquarie. hollandaise is very popular an helped in en h The most exciting ... gourmet pizzas to tc ki a base as et d ca places overseas are brilliant chicken, lamb a in d han y m gh u Harrods in London, and pork dishes. But ro th re co Seafood restaurants in our famous ‘Steve’s Surf sch o ol.”

Canada and the USA. and Turf’ Scotch fillet, half As mentioned, I was one lobster, garlic prawns, oysters of the Head Chefs on British and crumbed calamari just walks Airways catering for 1st class and out the door whenever it appears on business class, where manicured meals the specials board. We pride ourselves on fresh were made. and local produce. Keep an eye on our specials What was it about cooking that inspired board; you never know what might turn up! you to become a chef?

Is there anything else you would like to let I was inspired to be a chef at the young age our readers know? of 12, when I helped in an Army base as a We also pride ourselves on the functions, kitchen hand in a school cadet corp through weddings, banquet breakfast, corporate my school. My mother was a great cook and luncheon and just about anything else where was also showing me different things. catering is needed.

The Wauchope Country Club has Thanks Steve.

“

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar Spinnakers Restaurant ... relaxing with spectacular views over the marina and Pelican Bay, town lights sparkling over the bay, just set the scene for this special month.

Have a tantalizing cocktail in our bar, or dine in the restaurant with modern cuisine, specialising in steaks and seafood, for lunch or dinner.

When booking your table over March, mention FOCUS and we will give you a free bottle of wine when two main courses are ordered.

Our friendly staff with make you feel special and pampered.

Spinnakers Restaurant + Bar at Quality Resort Sails.

0 Park St, Port Macquarie at the roundabout, opposite Settlement City t 6589 5200 open for breakfast, lunch and dinner from 6.45am, 7 days a week.

Head chef Scott Trotter

greater port macquarie focus 27

Exciting new chef’s specials

What’s On at PMQ Golf Club?

There is something for all ages this March delicious meal whilst listening to Iive music at the Port Macquarie Golf Club. An from Crank - a great way to spend a Friday exciting new ‘Chef Specials’ menu from evening! Free Entry- Starting at 8pm. talented chefs Alex Hallam and Don’t miss out on all of the fun on Good Kieran English is now on Friday, the 29th of March, with the offer at Aspire Restaurant, Port Macquarie Golf Club’s Good with a variety of choices An exciting Friday Raffles! Tickets start new ‘Chef to suit all tastes. From m fro u selling at 6.30pm to be drawn en m Specials’ fresh local seafood x le A s ef ch ed nt at 7.30pm, and lots of lucky tale to succulent steaks, an Hallam and Kier winners will get to choose from come and try the new English is now Easter Eggs, Seafood and Meat ire sp A menu soon! on offer at .” prize selections. nt ra au st Re Local band Crank will With so much to do at The be playing live on Friday Port Macquarie Golf Club, there 15th of March! Crank is a is something for everyone! So come totally live 3-piece band, playing and join us for BINGO every Monday from a wide selection of popular favourites 10.30am, FREE TRIVIA, raffle prize giveaways from Chuck Berry and The Beatles right and cash countdown every Wednesday from through to 3 Doors Down and Grinspoon. Rich 5.30pm, and Friday raffles with over 50 prizes vocal harmonies add character to the great sound of this band. Enjoy a relaxing drink and to give away- tickets on sale from 6.30pm.

“

28 greater port macquarie focus.

New Chef at the Bago Tavern.

Wauchope's BAGO Tavern are pleased to introduce their new Chef Martin Lacny to the team. Chrissy Jones chatted with him to find out what's on the menu ...

You are new to the country; how long have you been here, and where have you come from? I have been in Australia for about 6 months and came from the Czech Republic.

What do you love most about your job? For 15 years I have worked in a kitchen. I love being able to try new foods and especially like seeing the customer’s response to new dishes that I prepare.

What is your favourite food? That's a hard one; I don't think I could pinpoint a favourite. I love to try new foods all the time, especially from different cultures.

Have you any advice for aspiring chefs? Try everything, read lots of recipe books in your spare time and travel the world; that is a great way to expand your food knowledge.

You have a great new Kids’ Menu – what's on offer? We have a few new things: homemade mini pizzas, nachos, meatballs, chipolatas, cheeseburgers and a few of the old favourites. Most come with mash or chips; all come with a free soft drink.

The dessert range looks fantastic! Our desserts are delicious! The different flavours of our homemade cheesecakes, Irish cream, cookies and cream, white chocolate and raspberry just to name a few, will tantalise tastebuds. We also have gluten free options.

What can we expect in months to come at the Bago Tavern? Any changes or influences from your home country? We will be introducing a new winter menu soon. Different foods from my home country, the Czech Republic and also from my travels in England will be added to our winter’s specials board; diners should enjoy what I will be offering.

Thank you Martin.

focuscolumn.

Come along and celebrate all things wine and food.

What’s happening at Cassegrain Wines VINTAGE BANQUET Sunday 14 April.

The grapes are picked, the wines are happily fermenting away in barrel and it’s time to relax and celebrate at our Vintage Banquet in the Gardens. Enjoy a 3 course lunch with the focus on regional produce, prepared by Chef Craig Freudenstein of XS Food, matched with our latest release Premium, Edition Noir and Reserve wines.

Relax in the beautiful surrounds of our gardens and soak up the atmosphere whilst listening to the sounds of Suave. There’ll be wine options games, lucky door prizes and a vintage report from our Winemakers, John and Alex Cassegrain.

Come along and celebrate all things wine and food with the team at Cassegrain Wines. $99 per person (all inclusive) or $90 for Club Cassegrain Members. Limited places available, so call today to make a booking P: Sue Temple 6582 8329.

CLUB CASSEGRAIN Whether you live nearby or are a visitor to the Hastings area, we invite you to be part of our wine club and reap the rewards. Receive regular

deliveries of our latest release wines, home delivered at discounted prices. Benefits include up to 20% discount on any further wine purchased through the cellar door and through mail order. You’ll receive invitations to special events at the winery and 10% discount at The Restaurant at Cassegrain. Ph: 1800 659 997.

CELLAR DOOR Award winning wines and regional produce.

Open for tastings every day, 9 am – 5 pm.

Closed Good Friday. Enquire about a private tasting – Great for groups or corporate events.

Bookings essential – Ph: (02) 6582 8324.

THE RESTAURANT AT CASSEGRAIN Offers morning/afternoon teas and lunch in a relaxed ambience surrounded by grapevines, roses and scenic gardens.

Bookings recommended. P: (02) 6582 8320.

THE ARTIST MARKET IN THE VINES Sunday 24 March, 9 am – 3 pm.

Local art, craft, music, food and fun in the beautiful Cassegrain grounds.

louperri. from The Stunned Mullet

A ppre cia tion

A great wine is like a Ferrari … Smooth, sensuous, sophisticated and impeccably designed. Great craftsmanship, lots of love, attention to detail and years of experience go into the making of both. Passion is key to the creation of true beauty. hose who appreciate the artistry behind a classic and iconic motor vehicle may or may not be the same people that relish the collecting and drinking of seriously good wine.

But there is no difference when it comes to the true appreciation of the genius that goes into the production of both.

Understanding of the processes involved the skill of the workmanship, the quality of the raw materials, the intricate and delicate teamwork that results in the final finished perfection is to truly be in awe of the wonders of human endeavour.

Luxury products appeal to different sorts of consumers, of course. Naturally there’s the status symbol purchase - the ‘look at how successful I am’ buy, which is usually immediately and visually obvious in its waxed, buffed and polished shininess.

And then there’s the close cousin of the above – the ubiquitous mid-life crisis purchase. The ‘Where did my life go? I need to remortgage the house in order to immediately own a flashy thing on four wheels, which will hopefully still make the chicks dig me’.

Then of course, there are most certainly ‘status’ wines. They are hedonistically purchased over the course of long business lunches, impressing colleagues and business associates and battering the hell out of company credit cards.

Premium wines can also be bought purely for their investment potential. Great vintages from great producers get snapped up and cellared, many to be sold on without ever having been tasted, at a profit. Passion and hedonism move over to make way for sound business sense.

Purest critics exist and are divisive over the

multitude of reasons that these high-octane products are purchased.

To buy a premium wine such as a first growth Bordeaux or Burgundy and to drink it say, with a spicy curry, is sacrilegious to some. To own a Ferrari and drive it only through suburban streets, never letting it realise its potential to hug curves at 200 km could well be seen as a travesty.

But, can you just be the proud owner of such coveted things, just for the sheer thrill of owning them – not having to be a connoisseur as such …

Really, is it OK to own things just for ‘show’, in the form of fancy cars that just do the daily commute and beautiful wine drunk at sub-optimal times with the wrong food …

Well, I say if it feels good – do it!

A little bit of knowledge is a good thing, but it is possible to take life too seriously as well.

Just because you aren’t fully educated about something doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it.

There are many levels of enjoyment, and who is to say that one is any better than another.

And as we all know, often the muchanticipated grand events of life wind up in reality, to be somewhat lacklustre. It is often the spur of the moment decision to open up a dusty bottle on a rainy night, or just the sheer joy of being the proud owner of something you love, but know you can’t afford - the feeling of throwing caution to the wind, or being naughty - that creates the greatest feeling of satisfaction.

Really, life is too short not to open that bottle when the whim strikes you, or be one of those giddy middle-aged people in hot rods if you are so inclined …

Meanwhile, for the rest of us - a whole lot of fun is possible whilst driving a bomb, or opening up a ten buck cleanskin too … greater port macquarie focus 29

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focusinterview.

P E T E

MURRAY Channelling the unique energy and cool vibe of Byron Bay, Pete Murray will stop over at Club Forster this month, as a part of his Blue Sky Blue - The Byron Sessions tour ...

ood morning Pete! The tour you’re just about to kick off is Blue Sky Blue – The Byron Sessions. Why inspired you to take your Blue Sky Blue album, which was originally released in 2011, and rerelease it in a different format?

My management and I were having a conversation, probably about 18 months ago. We were talking about what to do next … It was suggested at that time to do a solo tour, as I’ve never done a solo tour around this country. I’ve done it overseas, and it was a great success, but I’ve never done it here.

We thought we should do a recording to go with this idea, so fans could get their hands on something fresh and new. One of the managers sent the song Blue Sky Blue off to Natalie Pa’apa’a (Blue King Brown), a Melbourne band. Natalie wrote this Rap for it, and this was really fresh and new – it was really great!

We wanted to get Natalie into the recording studio to record it, but unfortunately she was touring overseas and we just couldn’t get the timing right.

We had another girl called Fantine record the work … she has such a great voice, and I think she’s becoming more known now because of this song.

After this process, we talked again and thought we should get some more artists involved. The next question was, what songs do we do? What I didn’t want to have was like a ‘greatest hits’ album – I’m really not at that stage of my career where I want to put out something with that greatest hits kind of flavour.

I actually thought it would be really cool to do an acoustic interpretation of Blue Sky Blue – it is an eclectic album – far more eclectic than anything I’d ever done before. I really wanted to do an acoustic interpretation, make it more lush, put some harmonies in there and get other artists involved …

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so I called up some friends to see who was free to work on it.

You mentioned a couple of collaborators’ names, but who were some of the other artists who worked on The Byron Sessions interpretation with you?

Bernard Fanning, Darren Middleton from Powderfinger, Busby Marou, Ash Grunwald, Scott Owen (from the Living End) and Katie Noonan …

I guess. What is it about living in Byron Bay This is a solo tour you’re embarking on, but that you most enjoy? who else will be travelling on the road with The community is amazing – everyone’s very caryou to the various gigs? ing about people, the environment; they’re health My support act is Nathan Kaye. He’s conscious. I love that about the place. a local guy from Byron, and he It’s a very friendly place. The surf’s plays Beatbox and Slide. We great! (Laughs.) I’ve finally found , met at a gig a while ago and home here – I love the place.

With this show is e he said if I ever wanted I really couldn’t go back to the styl t an w I d an , ic some Beatbox on my song the city now … I grew up in acoust e people to feel fre ns, tracks, to let him know and the country, but spent a lot to ask me questio he’d come up. I said I’d of time in the cities getting I want request songs − ly part love it – and as soon as he my career up and running. It’s the crowd to real did, he just gave it this great God’s country here – it’s really of the show.” vibe … this guy doing Beatbox beautiful and such a nice place whiIe I’m playing Stomp Box, to live. acoustic and harmonica. It was just And you know – everyone’s saying so rootsy … I wanted him to come on that this new album has a laid back vibe tour and be my support act and play on stage with and it’s acoustic – and it is – but it’s also got a reme, so I got him locked in for that. ally energy and great grooves on it too.

My bass player, who’s also acting as my roadie You’ve lived in Byron for about 8 years now.

[Dave Tweedie] will jump up on stage and play Do you feel your style of writing and playing with me too. has changed much during this time?

With this show, the style is acoustic, and I want Considering that Feeler [first mainstream album] people to feel free to ask me questions, request was quite a moody album, I think things have songs − I want the crowd to really part of the brightened up. I didn’t want to go back to making show. There’s no real structure to this show – we’ll anything too deep or dark … See the Sun was kind play songs, get some groove happening, and of a positive change – a song like Better Days is a whatever happens will happen. deep song, but it has a positive message in it. So It sounds like a very easy, laid back, informal it’s kind of being more optimistic and moving away kind of tour – almost a reflection of how most from the more melancholy stuff … I people would perceive the Byron Bay lifestyle, didn’t want to do that stuff anymore, as I wasn’t in

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that place. It can get a bit heavy sometimes.

Writing songs is obviously a different process for everyone, but how does this work for you? Do you get the idea for lyrics first, does it start with a melody … and what instrument fires your creativity most?

For many, it’s music and melody first, and lyrics after that. That’s kind of the way I’ve always done it. There was one song I did the lyrics for first and then wrote the music for – and that really didn’t work quite as well.

It’s normally all done on acoustic guitar.

Considering this is the first time you’ve toured solo in Australia, what are your expectations of the tour?

I’m really looking forward to it – I think it will be great. It’ll be a fun tour. I’m really excited about having Nathan and Dave, my bass player, come up and play Beatbox and groove with some of the tracks … I like this idea a lot, and I don’t think it’s something people would normally get to hear …

Thanks Pete.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

21

See Pete Murray at Port Panthers on March 21; doors open at 8pm, and show starts at 8.30pm.

Tickets: Presale $35; door $40.

Contact Port Panthers on 6580 2300 for details.

greater port macquarie focus 31

Local Artists.

FOCUS PROFILE

Winsome & Willow is a collection of mixed media artistic diaries, notebooks, cards, affirmations and prints. Sue’s whimsical mixed media, characters, combined with words of wisdom and affirmation, are part of this mother of five's artistic journey.

ell us about your designs and inspiration for your brand, Winsome & Willow.

Winsome & Willow was inspired by my paintings of gentle, whimsical faces.

My children inspire every facet of my life and my art; I have three beautiful daughters, and some people have commented that they think I am painting them! Maybe they are right!

Winsome is an old word meaning ‘charming in a naïve childlike way’ and Willow is a Celtic symbol of imagination, intuition and vision and is symbolic of all things feminine.

I also think Winsome & Willow is a little quirky, which suits my personality!

Have you always been creative and enjoyed artistic work?

I have always had a creative urge! Ever since I was a little girl, I loved to draw and paint and ‘make things’. I loved words and wrote stories and poetry.

As I grew older, I fell into the common trap of becoming intimidated by art. I believed that art had to be serious and follow rules – I believed that if you broke those rules, then somehow, it was not real art.

I left my art behind in my childhood and didn’t return to it seriously until I was introduced to Folk Art in the '90s. Folk Art ‘allowed me back in’ and enabled me to enjoy expressing myself through art again.

I gained enough confidence to share my art with others and began to teach. I really loved to encourage others to embark upon their own artistic journey and give them the

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reassurance that their art did not have to be serious to be meaningful.

Unfortunately, the stresses of running a business and raising 5 small children saw me hang up my paintbrushes again for a long 17 years.

Eight months ago, my youngest son Lachie, who was too young to remember me painting, bought me some art supplies and told me to stop reminiscing about my art and start creating it!

What styles and characters can be seen throughout your artworks?

I paint in mixed media - a little bit of everything - no rules, remember! I use acrylics, watercolours, pastels, crayons, pencils, markers, ink, stamping, collage experimentation is fun, and ‘mistakes’ can always be painted over!

I would describe my style as whimsical, and at the moment I am enjoying painting beautiful faces with haunting eyes and sweet little girls with kind eyes. I have also been dabbling in funny, whimsical animal characters like a flying pig with big ideas named Ham and a chook named Penny with big dreams!

Tell us about your hand painted diaries what do some of the affirmations on each design mean to you?

I have been painting my girls on 2013 diaries for the last 6 months or so but now as ‘diary season’ is winding down, I have been moving on to Journals with lined pages and Art Journals with lovely heavy pages.

I am hand painting the cover of each one and personalising them with a name or an affirmation.

I want my art to hold meaning for the latest products can be seen on my Facebook recipient and the words and affirmations that page at facebook.com/winsomeandwillow I use are powerful and beautiful and, told I am keen to share my art and would like through the eyes of my girls, can soothe and to start working on some instructional videos calm and give strength. soon, the aim being to encourage people I use affirmations and messages that to discover their inner artist in the most non remind us of the simple truths that can so threatening environment – their own homes! easily be forgotten but are so important and I am really excited for whatever comes next empowering. for me and my art.

Affirmations have helped me come through Are all of your pieces original and one of some very difficult times in my life, and I a kind? would like to think that, through All of my diaries and journals are my art, these affirmations and hand painted originals - I do have positive messages might some very popular designs that help others.

I am asked to paint with a ed “ I paint in mix My favourite particular eye colour or hair t media - a little bi affirmation at the colour, but no two are exactly of everything - no moment, as I reflect alike! r! ” be em m re on the last 30 years of How long have you been s, le ru motherhood, with my attending the Foreshore youngest child coming to Market in Port Macquarie, the end of his school years and what do you enjoy about and leaving me with an empty it? nest is: “It’s never too late to be what I am actually an Artist Market newbie, you might have been.” with my first local market being the inaugural Maybe I might have been an artist! Let’s see Artist Market in the Vines in January! I have how it pans out! attended several markets in Sydney, but none What other products are available for of them had the same ‘vibe’ as our very own! purchase from Winsome & Willow?

I was inspired by the incredibly talented My range is growing all the time, as I am artists and artisans, and the music and using prints of my original work to produce atmosphere was amazing. I really enjoyed a growing number of products such as cute being able to demonstrate my art on the day little pocket mirrors and a great range of and to see other artists doing the same. affirmation cards for every occasion.

I am so excited for the March market in the I am working on some larger canvasses, vines after our February market was flooded which is fun, and I am working with my eldest out. daughter, Jodie, to expand my range. My Thanks Sue.

Out to Lunch

with Susie Boswell

focusinterview.

Baker.

Compounding chemists are in the news, with the federal government insinuating Aussie sport’s riddled with steroids, peptides and illegal performance-enhancing concoctions.

Susie lunches with Port’s own compounding pharmacist and is invited inside a wholesome designer drugs practice. arents welcome Chupa Chups-style lollipops masking the unpalatable taste of a child’s medicine. Cancer patients get relief from medications catering especially to their level of need. Women receive bio-identical, not synthetic, HRT, eliminating unpleasant symptoms. Stubborn wounds are treated with dressings impregnated with antibiotics and pain relief for more effective healing. Keloid scars respond remarkably. Such are some of the improved results obtainable thanks to custom-compounded drugs. Even animals get individual treatments, on a vet’s prescription.

Today, I’m garbed in a white surgeon-style cap and gown the likes of which I’ve not worn since an unforgettable forensic assignment in Glebe Morgue a while back. I’m chatting with Virginia Baker inside her sterile laboratory at The Medicine Chest Pharmacy alongside the post office, a business Baker’s owned for the past 18 years. She’s one of 38 pharmacists working out of 12 storefronts in Port, our only practising compounding specialist since installing her costly compounding lab three years ago. Now, aside from regular pharmacy trade, she deals with many of the town’s 57 GPs and more than 70 specialists (not including visiting consultants), creating medications to doctors’ requirements and using her knowledge to build medicines to treat persistent patient problems presented to her by the medicos, devising tailor-made solutions. It’s not commercially viable for big pharmaceutical companies manufacturing mass-produced drugs to make seldom-demanded dosage strengths, shorter shelf-life or low-volume lines.

“I wanted to offer outcomes to people with severe problems or problems not resolved by what’s readily available,” Baker tells me, her face alive at the professional challenge, of the impetus to set up one of the State’s 86 or so compounding pharmacies - most in greater Sydney. Science attracted her interest at school in western NSW: “My father was a chemistry teacher; I learned all my chemistry from Dad,” she smiles. The fascination saw her take her undergraduate degree at Sydney Uni and postgraduate clinical pharmacy studies through UQ. And there are continuing professional development courses - in the US and in Sydney last month, for example, essential to keep abreast of research and technology. Baker works with some 500 liquid and powdered elements at her disposal, using her knowledge of what’s compatible, using special formulas and accessing information via her membership of Professional Compounding Chemists of Australia. The active ingredients, many imported, are subject to PCCA qualityassurance standards and “second to none,” she says, in purity, potency, efficacy. The aim is to employ the power of quality active ingredients in tailoring a prescription to an individual, often a more complex patient, to give better results with fewer side effects.

Baker’s lab is remarkable, fitted with shiny expensive equipment such as an $8,000 laminar flow hood - an extractor-style installation that prevents micronised particles being absorbed transdermally by technicians, a Ph meter, electric mortar and pestle, a centrifugal-type creams mixer, and electronic scales that measure,

heat, spin, blend and cool the compounds she puts together. The equipment is balanced and calibrated daily: “Safety’s a big consideration,” she notes. As she works she mentions conditions, remedies: fungal infections, psoriasis that pits fingernails, allergies, stretch marks, mouth washes for radiation burns, leg ulcers from poor circulation and diabetes, weight loss, thyroid dysfunction, palliative care, pain management, dentistry, sand fly bite potions, discontinued lines, troches (lozenges) for those unable to swallow tablets, travel sickness, dermatology, eliminating colours and flavourings. On her website I note content presumably common to PCCA members that mentions treating hyperhidrosis (sweating), radiation-induced rectal ulcers ... and tranquilising feral cats with liver-flavoured chews.

Veterinary medicines are a typical small specialist market: Baker can make dosages suitable for “a chihuahua or an elephant”, she assures me.

Cosmeceuticals - cosmetic products with biologically active ingredients - are another avenue of the discipline: the pharmacy’s beauty salon also offers consultations for acne, pigmentation, wrinkles and allergic reactions. Compounding consultations are given in home visits, too. The work’s labour-intensive and materials costly but not all special medications are more expensive than average scripts: some are approved under the PBS. Later, over lunch - zucchini flowers with basil and almond ricotta, honey vinaigrette and mint, ahead of Asian-inspired blue-eye cod - Baker impresses as one of the most capable and possibly nicest women around. Close up, I wonder:

is it cosmeceuticals that give her face a glow belying that she’s mother to a 21-year-old? It turns out it’s probably attributable to healthy eating, a love of home cooking and entertaining, relaxing pastimes like reading - and that she runs with friends 7-8km up to four mornings a week, longer on Sundays, and walks the beach after dinner ... all with a family of four to organise, the youngest 12! She’s training for a half-marathon in Sydney in May. Then there’s the other running: of the pharmacy, with a staff of seven, including naturopaths. Over our dessert of pannacotta with pistachio sand, strawberry & balsamic, I’m reminded of the “Chupa Chups” flavours available for children: raspberry, banana and tutti-frutti. But adults can have medicinal lollipops too, Baker grins. Not kiddie-style sweet ones, but pina colada or crème de menthe!

Certainly beats a spoonful of sugar.

Editor's note: As OUT TO LUNCH enters its sixth year in Focus, we thank the 60 locals who’ve taken time for a chat as guests of our sponsor, Lou Perri’s premium restaurant The Stunned Mullet. OTL paints a picture of aspects that shape the unique personality our town through the identities who contribute to its development.

We’ve profiled police, council, education and energy chiefs; leading industrialists generating employment and economic prosperity; a planner and big landholder; pioneer businessmen - and a young entrepreneur; the multifaceted Father Leo Donnelly; generous community volunteers; a primary producer; tourism identities; a horticulturist, a greenie, MPs and many more.

Thanks all for your contributions!

greater port macquarie focus 33

focusinterview.

Birds of Tokyo is a five-piece alternative Rock band from Perth, Western Australia. In 2010 the band released its highest charting album to date, Birds of Tokyo, which reached No. 2 on the ARIA Albums Chart. They are playing at The Laurieton United Services Club, Tuesday 19 March.

H

ow did the band form?

Where are you guys from?

I’m not entirely sure how the band formed. I’ve only been involved in the band for the past two years. I think Adam Spark (Sparky) and Ian Kenny were friends who hung around the same scene of people.

Sparky was studying music and Kenny was (and still is) singing for a progressive Rock band Karnivool.

These two West Australian lads started writing music with no intention of forming a band. I think when the songs took shape, they realised it would be awesome to have a drummer and bass player.

So incidentally, they ended up as a band.

Give me a brief history of the band and what inspired you to make music together?

Once the band was formed, they played a few shows in local pubs around Perth and more regional areas, and the more they played, the more people started to come to their shows.

They released two EPs in 2005, and then local radio stations started playing the songs. The band followed that up with an album in 2007 called Day One; triple j got involved, and their listeners started growing fond of the band.

The band then started touring, and their fan base began to swell. In 2008, the band released their second album, Universes, which reached gold status in sales.

In 2010, they released their third record called Birds of Tokyo – Self Titled and toured with Silversun Pickups in September and October 2010. The band received six 2010 ARIA Music Awards nominations. I think the record went platinum – maybe even double platinum. I know the one single, Plans, transformed the band into something much bigger than they expected.

This brings you up to the point that I joined the band. I was working as an accountant whilst maintaining my songwriting passion in another band called Sugar Army. Out of the blue, Adam Weston, their drummer, calls and asks me whether I’d like to join Birds of Tokyo for some upcoming shows. I soon found out their interest in me was from a creative perspective. We played all over

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lives in. It’s about forcing oneself to leave the nest, Australia, and then we began to work creatively to find new challenges and to grow as individuals. on the latest record, March Fires.

The story reaches an epiphany that whilst we may You've just released a new album; how does feel alone when we choose to leave our comfort it differ from your older material? zones, these greater souls are unified in the quest I think if you listened to the first record and for new beginnings. “On we march ‘til we meet this record, March Fires, you’d be surprised it was the dawn, we will light our way with our lanterns the same band. The weight and size of the songs on.” on March Fires carry a much bigger sound. It’s Could you briefly describe the music-making become less about the masculine side of music process? that hard Rock harbours and more about the I think all songs have to reach a point where atmospheric journeys that songs can take you on. you play them once, and you want to hear it This record is no longer about the individual, again. That’s no easy task (especially but more about the community at if you are picky!) You’re always large. searching for that moment The messages are bigger, The tour is he as songwriters where you and they involve the aptly called Te feel it’s flawless ... when listener. We replaced ‘me’ ar e March Fires. W it’s got a message, a and ‘I’ for ‘we’ and ‘us’ r o aj m e playing all th y regional meaning, a groove and and invite the listener an cities and m ur is our a feeling! So when to believe it’s their to is h towns. T to n la p chords and melodies are song, not the band’s. e W r. u to al bum e of the st ta put together, we tend a When past records le p eo p give ing of our to take risks exploring would entice angst and sonic unravellct ion.” options for the songs. show conviction, this latest constru Sometimes I like to be messy record provokes nostalgia and as a songwriter put the and positivity. kitchen sink in there and see if we Who writes your songs? What can reverse engineer a cohesive idea. If are the main themes or topics for you have the talent and creativity to write most of your songs? Do you think these music, it becomes all about your ability to solve topics will change over time? problems with logic and skill.

Adam Spark, our guitarist, is the driving What are your thoughts about selling force of the band. He comes up with chord your music online and about illegal music sequences and sound designs that act as downloads? What are your predictions about treatments for bigger ideas. Ian Kenny is our the future of CD and vinyl sales; do you think wonderful singer, who can drop beautiful digital music will ever completely replace melodies in the most unexpected and expected these formats? moments. Once those two align their talent, a I think the CD and vinyl will never die song is born. completely and will become akin to a rare On this record, songs were written in a more species of animal. The world is full of lovers of collaborative effort. This time around the themes convenience. Listening to music on your iPod or of the music were more socially driven. Such as computer is just much quicker and easier than the song, This Fire, where we created an idea of using a CD or vinyl. So, it’s not a great time to walking through a scene of urban destruction and invest in the CD world. embracing it for its beauty.

File sharing and transfers are the way of the Another song, Lanterns, is a journey song. It’s future; in fact, they are the present. The new the universal story of man acknowledging the Apple iMac don’t even come with CD-ROM drives point in his life where he’s outgrown the world he

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anymore. Why? I guess Apple doesn’t see a future in it. Selling music online is great.

I use iTunes all the time, and it’s simple and convenient. I guess the downside is that music can be owned and consumed without a trade.

We can simply share it with our friends or share it with strangers at monstrous volumes. This can be very detrimental to the career of artists relying on actual sales to support their lifestyle.

It’s not a great position for the music industry to be in. Instead of growth and expansion, only the larger and more established artists are sustaining their careers. The diversion of music is at stake here!

What are your future plans and upcoming releases or tours? What do we have to look forward to this year?

We are heading on an Australian tour in late February and playing shows right throughout March. The tour is aptly called The March Fires.

We are playing all the major cities and many regional towns. This tour is our album tour.

We plan to give people a taste of the sonic unravelling of our latest construction. The live show is going to be completely new for us. We’ve taken the time to engage professional light and visual programmers to create a show that’s larger than life. It’s not just your usual pub Rock band playing your favourite songs. We want to create an event and visual theme for every song we play.

I’m excited!

Interview with band member Ian Berney.

win

ONE OF 5 DOUBLE PASSES TO MEET & GREET BIRDS OF TOKYO

Anyone who pre purchases a ticket at the Laurieton United Services Club before 10 March goes into the draw to win one of five double passes to meet and greet the Birds of Tokyo. Purchases can be made at reception or over the phone on 6559 9110.

greater port macquarie focus 35

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

Right: Madeline Farlow

left. Zoe van Mill's birthday high tea.

below. Ladies in Red @ Rydges. Photo credit Sonja Larsen

Photo Credit Brittany Pollard

below. Michelle ichelle Percival's 50th birthday thday bash. below NBN's General Sales Manager Bernard Corbett, NBN Journalist Renee Fedder and Presenter Paul Lobb

above Hayley Morris & Clara Gardiner G di @ LLadies di in i Red R d

Social/scene.

Secretly and somewhat ashamedly, I admit that my guilty indulgence after a humongous day (apart from illegal consumption of Cadbury) is to grab a cup of lemongrass and ginger tea, a piece of afore confessed choc and click on the series link of The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.

M

mmmm yes, sad to say I am only a partially repentant addict to this one particular type of TV drivel … these surgically enhanced glamazons in their gold plated Bentleys, uber-mansions and glitzy lifestyle bear little resemblance to my own existence in (usually!) sunny little Port Mac providing a humourous, often ridiculous escape from the real worries of the normal world.

It is hilarious to see these somewhat fabulous yet tragic women crying poor as they sip Piper Hediseck champagne and eat caviar, as waiters, chauffeurs, doormen, housemaids and umpteen personal assistants cater to their every whim. Seriously people, if the price of Botox goes up or your plastic surgeon can't pick you up in his limo for lunch, it really isn’t the end of the world! Give me a break or another episode, because I am sadly hooked!

Reality TV ... more like reality check!

Grant Woods and his team at NBN launched the 2013 season at Zebu Bar + Grill, with special guests General Sales Manager Bernard Corbett and News Presenter Paul Lobb. Over 60 guests, including Suzanne Tillmann of St George, Larry Collins and Michelle Randone of Port Panthers, John Carroll of Eye Care Plus, Anthony and Carole Sarks of Ricardoes, Lionel Kells, journalist Renee Fedder and Dale Harvey enjoyed canapés, drinks and a water view, as they welcomed in the line up for the year to come. Congrats to the team!

Robyn Linn celebrated her 60th birthday in style with 50 guests, including hubby Graham at their home in Lighthouse Beach.

Guests enjoyed Silverspoon canapés, including King Prawns with lime garlic aioli, miniature fillet mignon and baby lemon meringue pies and bite size white chocolate and raspberry cheesecakes. The lovely crowd topped off the night with plenty of sparkles and a dash of vino - cheers to you, Robyn!

Two hundred and fifty leggy ladies launched into a night of fashion and fun for the second annual Ladies in Red Event at Rydges in late February. The lovely lasses all dressed in raunchy red to get together for a real girls' night out, with canapés, a Ruby Red cocktail on arrival, a serious amount of champers and some delicious choc dipped strawberries donated by Anthony and Carole at Ricardoes.

The business community came out in force to support the event, with amazingly generous donations from fabulous suppliers and gorgeous goodies including hair products, cosmetics, jewellery, homewares and more.

Matthew J and his Pose It photo booth were also on hand to capture the ladies' antics, with lots of naughty red props to accessorise the ladies' crimson escapades! Major sponsor Settlement City provided the fashion show, with hair and makeup generously donated by Jamie Finn of Port Day Spa, Shae Nath and Bec Wall from Hair Hub, Jolin Shead from Jolin Style and Evelina Kemp of Glasshouse Hair and

Beauty.

Major prizes included a fabulous Coffs Harbour getaway to Opal Cove Resort, with decadent day spa treatments donated by La Fleur Da Lyse and jewellery by Carole Beros at Le Dãin Designs. Rikki-Lee, Freddy and the team at Settlement City supported the night, ensuring all of the guests and the Salvos had a fabulous time. Special thanks to all the committee, expert wrappers and helpers in the lead up to the event, including Jenny Edmunds, Janine Buesnel, Janette Hyde, Debbie Cooper and Major Allison Gallagher, who spoke on behalf of the Salvos and the Red Shield Appeal.

The genetically blessed and ridiculously talented Alex and Maddy entertained the crowd with sultry tunes, with DJ Mave kicking off the night with some funky fun starters.

The finale gown was provided by Beth Rose of Bella Rose collections and was a black and crimson conchetta style stunner straight out of Sofia Vergara’s wardrobe.

Special thanks to South African imports, brothers Eric and Christo Wilken of Everybody PT, who bared the super fit bods for a good cause … for a couple of guys who were shocked and a little bit sceptical of 250 red women engulfing the stage ... they soon got into the swing of things and put on quite show for their adoring fans.

Boardies and buffness nearly led to a total swoon situation, that was quickly averted by a little more cocktail drinking and a giggle or

two! Dodgy microphones didn’t dampen the spirits, with double the amount raised at last year’s event!

Congrats to best dressed winners, who walked away with a swag of goodies from fashion houses at Settlement City and couture jewellery from Le Dãin Designs and Arthouse Industries. Cheers to you gorgeous gals, and see you all next year!

I am acutely aware that my lifestyle is moving away from relatively healthy at this point, with a new habit of coffee drinking (much to my co-workers' distress!) and a solid return to my old pal, chocola!

I have toyed briefly with the idea of giving up sugar altogether and heading down a strict return to health regime of raw juices and unprocessed food - but seriously, who I am kidding!

Sadly coffee now kickstarts my brain, and choc has always kept me smiling - who I am to subject home and work to anything less!

So, in this seriously crazy time of extreme weather, hectic work schedules and social commitments, I am trying to live a little more in the moment and appreciate everything, including precious family moments, and hang on to elusive downtime as it comes. A minor hitch, hinting I may not be doing so well in this area - I am reading Sunday morning papers on Tuesday night! Epic fail! 'til next month, Kate.

greater port macquarie focus 37

focusinterview.

Eleanor Pinkerton is an inspiration, using her own experiences of coping with grief and loss to help others who may be going through similar circumstances. Eleanor’s a talented vocalist and songwriter, Gestalt Psychotherapist and a volunteer with Lifeline. Her music spreads the message about enjoying what’s important in life, and above all – a message of hope …

ou were born in Scotland – how many years did you spend there?

I was born in Glasgow, Scotland. I spent the < rst ten years of my life there.

What led you to start singing?

My earliest musical memories are of my sister and I singing and entertaining family and friends in Scotland. My mother always had records playing in the house. I grew up with a range of music from musicals like My Fair Lady, to The Beatles. My father was a sportsman, and the only music he would listen to was Scottish music. I grew to enjoy Scottish music too. One of my cousins played the bagpipes.

Your family eventually moved to New Zealand. What brought about the move?

My family moved to New Zealand when I was 10. My father had been in the Navy before I was born, and he said New Zealand was the country that reminded him most of Scotland. Dad had a brother who already lived in New Zealand, but I think the bad weather in Scotland was the reason we moved.

Your life, like so many others, has been touched by heartbreak and tragedy. What are some of the things that have influenced you most greatly – and what impact has this had on your music?

My sister died suddenly of Lupus when she was only 35 years old. In that same year, two of my closest friends (who were the same age as my sister) also died suddenly. A year later, two more of my close friends died suddenly.

The impact these events had on my music was enormous. I wrote a lot of songs as a way of expressing my grief. Unfortunately, I was unable to sing them publicly. My sister and I had sung together for so long, I found that grief prevented me from singing publicly for 5 38 greater port macquarie focus.

years after she died.

I auditioned for a singing teacher in Sydney who taught opera, and I trained with her for three years. My sister and I had never sung opera together, so I was able to train this way - there were no painful memories associated with opera.

As an adult with a husband and children of your own, why did you and your family ultimately move to Australia in 2006?

My husband, Graham, and I had lived in Sydney for 8 years when we < rst got married.

Our two oldest children were born in Sydney.

We used to live in Newtown, and I sang in a band in Sydney. We returned to live in New Zealand when the children were young, as we wanted them to get to know their grandparents.

When we moved to Port in 2006, it was for a range of reasons. Both of my parents had died suddenly of heart attacks within 13 months of each other the year we returned to NZ. Graham< s father had also died. Our youngest child, who was born in New Zealand, was a chronic Asthmatic, and the climate in Hamilton was making the condition worse. We were advised to move to a warmer climate, so we chose Port.

Describe some of the things that have helped you come to terms with loss and grief ...

There are a variety of people and things that have helped me come to terms with loss and grief, including: raising my three children, the support of my husband, grief counseling from Hospice, working as a volunteer Lifeline telephone support person and training as a Gestalt psychotherapist for 4 years < One of the hardest aspects of dealing with loss is the sense of isolation and helplessness that you feel. I had a need to try to understand

the whole process of grief and loss and learn how to deal with it. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross is the expert on dealing with grief, and I found her books to be fantastic.

These events of loss in my life have changed my whole attitude to life. Live your dreams now. Don< t wait until tomorrow if you want to achieve something; do it now. Follow your passion. Follow your heart. Don< t get caught up chasing money or status. People, not things, are what mean the most to me. The Buddhist idea of living in the now < This is what my Gestalt training taught me.

My sister< s death led me away from Rock music into opera training. I< m grateful for the training, as it has taught me how to protect my voice. My Gestalt training helped me to move through grief by facing my pain, not avoiding it. Until I did my Gestalt training, I felt blocked creatively. I am writing songs freely again, which is wonderful.

Recording my debut CD is a continuation of this creativity.

As you mentioned, you recently released your first CD, The Circle is Broken. What are some of the songs on the CD? There are a variety of songs on the CD, and some of them are about loss. Several songs were written after my sister died as an attempt to express my own feelings.

The title song was a reaction to my daughter< s news that she was moving back to NZ for good. Allowing your children to lead their own lives when they choose a path you least expect is never easy.

There are several songs about that euphoric feeling of being in love.

The < nal song, Outside the Circle, is about the importance of integrity and being yourself, especially when your choices leave you standing alone.

My intention with these songs is that they will present the listener with a message of hope < Loss and death are a natural part of life. Society does not teach us how to deal with these things, so we often fear them.

My songs are about facing the emotions and moving through them and learning to enjoy the things that don< t last < The one thing we never lose is love − it always remains with us long after the person has gone from our lives. There is a song on the CD about new life growing from the darkness of pain.

What do you see as being your future life direction?

Now that I< ve come to terms with my past, my future life direction is to help as many people as I can who are struggling with some of the issues I have made peace with. I do this in several ways. I have my own private practice as a Gestalt psychotherapist in Port. I continue to work as a voluntary supervisor for Lifeline. I sing my original songs to live audiences when I can. I run occasional workshops in voice therapy. Music is still the most healing force in my life; I hope to share that music with many people.

Where can people buy a copy of your CD, watch you perform, or get in touch with you if they’re interested in your music?

If anyone is interested in buying my CD, they can email me at Keltz53@gmail.com or phone me on mob: 0405 026 847.

I don< t have a regular singing spot at the moment: my songs need to be listened to, rather than be used as background music. I sing during the year at lunchtime concerts at The Glasshouse. I have been booked to sing at a festival in Sydney later in the year. If anyone would like to book me, please contact me.

Thanks Eleanor.

Interview by Jo Atkins.

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

Holding Hands

Waratah

Rose

Diamond Rings

Cut the Cake

Marriage Rings

Commemorative Certificates are a unique memento of your wedding day and can be displayed in a frame as a keepsake or become part of your album as an everlasting memory. Commemorative Certificates are purchased as a $71.00* package that includes a Standard Marriage Certificate (valued at $48.00) that can be used for official purposes.

With each package, additional Commemorative Certificates can be purchased for $23.00 each.

To apply for your certificate, speak to your celebrant, visit our website or call the Registry on 1300 655 236.

Commemorative Marriage Certificates do not contain security features and organisations may not accept them as a proof of identity document. *Prices are correct at time of printing and include postage, handling and GST where applicable.

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

w w w. b d m . n s w. g o v. a u l P h o n e : 1 3 0 0 6 5 5 2 3 6 greater port macquarie focus 39

focustravel with Susie Boswell

focustourism. Port Macquarie Tourism Association

T o u r is m janette hyde.

Isn’t it great to see the sun, just in time for some really great events in March!

2013 Mastercraft Australian Open Waterski Titles Australia's 'cream of the crop' slalom, trick and jump skiers are vying for the title as well as competitors from around the world, including Japan, USA, England and New Zealand. The tournament starts 8am at Stoney Park on Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 March 2013.

Port Macquarie Running Festival 2013 Sunday 10 March 2013 - come and be a part of the Port Macquarie Running Festival on the Town Green. There is an event here for everyone: 21.1 km Half Marathon, The Athlete's Foot 10 km Run, 5 km Fun Run, 4 km Walk and Talk, 4 km Kids Fun Run, 2 km Kids Fun Run. 4th Trans-Tasman Vintage Cricket Carnival Sunday 17 March 2013 to Saturday 23 March 2013 Vintage Cricket is proudly bringing the 4th Trans-Tasman Vintage Cricket Carnival to Port Macquarie. The beautiful coastal New South Wales town will host Vintage teams from New Zealand and Australia for a week of fun, friendship and cricket. Various locations around Greater Port Macquarie.

Koala Hospital Open Day Saturday 30 March 2013 9am – 2pm On Easter Saturday, 30 March, the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital will be holding its Annual Open Day. There will be lots of things happening for all the family, including plant, cake and bookstalls. There will also be a sausage sizzle, Devonshire teas, raffles and Walk and Talk Tours.

For further information regarding any of these events, go to www.portmacquarieinfo. com 103rd Annual Wauchope Show Friday 5 April 2013 to Saturday 6 April 2013 The exhibits at the Wauchope Show – Wauchope Showground. From all over the 40 greater port macquarie focus.

Hastings region and around NSW, people come to exhibit and experience this fantastic event.

Friday night there will be fireworks and Saturday night a special Bullriding Event will take place, plus all the usual entertainment, displays, animals and rides.

A great day or night out for all the family.

We welcome all delegates from Rotary District 9670 for their 2013 Conference to be held on the 22 - 24 March.

Foreshore Development The draft plan for the Foreshore Development of Port Macquarie is on Council’s Website and encourages people to make submissions by the 22 March 2013 to Area Manager, NSW Trade and Investment Crown Lands, Mid North Coast, PO Box 440 TAREE NSW 2430.

The Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association met on 19 February at Mercure Hotel. The draft plan of the Foreshore Development was discussed, and the Association will be making a submission which will include the industry’s thoughts on the current plan and in particular, the relocation of the commercial moorings. This is a really important issue, so please get involved.

Hello Koalas The Hello Koalas Event programmed for 2014 was presented at the meeting. It is a great opportunity to encourage tourists – intrastate, interstate and international to our beautiful area – Greater Port Macquarie. It is a fantastic initiative by Margret Meagher, the Project Manager for Hello Koalas, and we will keep you updated as the Event evolves.

Port Macquarie Airport It is good news that the Port Macquarie Airport’s upgrade has commenced – it will be a real boost to the local economy. We look forward to the new opportunities it will present.

T R AV E L D E S T I N AT I O N : CHRISTMAS CRUISING S-E ASIA A ictured above is my stateroom aboard a vessel offering a maximum manifest of around 100 passengers the attentions of a crew of almost equal numbers. The bedroom, dressed in designer linens, makes for restful luxury. The wide window - no mere port hole - affords exceptional viewing; the carpeted sitting room, with high-set coffee table for serving snacks, is equipped with the latest techno gear. Obscured are generous wardrobe space and the sparkling marble bathroom with flushing loo.

For a bit over $1000 a day for a couple, including all 5-star dining, wines with lunch/ dinner, drinks from the open bars and nightly cocktails, this cruise operator is offering a novel way to celebrate Christmas 2013, or New Year.

Add flights into Singapore and ex Phuket to the budget (and, if feeling flash, a few days in incomparable Singapore). The journey Sydney, Brisbane or Gold Coast Airport to Changi - is in a similar time zone, so no jet lag. Flight options include budget airlines.

The vessel sails from Singapore on Saturday evening December 21, calling at seven southeast Asia locations over seven days. Visit Malacca, Pangkor, Penang, Langkawi, Ko Lanta, Ko Phi Phi and Patong Beach, ending at Phuket, where the cruise disembarks on Saturday December 28. Optional preorganised land experiences here include elephant attractions, a visit to the Grand Pagoda venerating Buddha and entree to an elite golf resort. En route, Sea Dream Yacht Club promises “Christmas Day in the turquoise waters of Langkawi island”, across the Straits of Malacca in the Andaman Sea off western Malaysia, near the Thai border. Overnight on Christmas Eve anchored at Pilau Penang, a short hop to Langkawi for the following day’s festivities.

Attractions on the voyage include on-shore sightseeing, spectacular natural topography, native fauna, colonial architecture, white sand beaches - both secluded and hosting

P

plush resorts, markets, shopping for batik and other crafts, silks and artworks. The ports of call offer an ideal chance to learn about and absorb the fascinating history of the Raj and other administrations, the cultures and exotic cuisines of a “sampler” of Asia. Between times, home's a comfy familiar haven with excellent on-board dining, truly “inclusive” drinks, impeccable service, exclusivity.

Sea Dream’s slogan is“It’s yachting, not cruising”: and the boutique size of its vessels and friendly “country-club afloat” atmosphere and gentle pace justify the claim. Sea Dream II, with authentic teak decks, hosts a pool, library, discreet casino, sunset bar, starlight movies, piano/cocktail bar, fitness centre, beauty spa, golf simulator and live-music interludes and is the just ight size for mingling, or privacy.

A big drawcard is the retractable “marina” that comes into play at anchor offering glassbottomed kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, tubing, snorkelling, Lasers, a floating lounge, waterskiing and jetskiing. Cuisine is showcased at the welcome and evening cocktails, in canapés, at Captain’s reception, sunrise coffee, in healthy fresh breakfast feasts on deck and lunches, formal dinners, poolside sandwiches, tea service, champagne, caviar, degustation menu, 24-hour snack menu, and spa menu.

Sea Dream’s website quotes $3999pp twin share including tips, plus port and other fees of $910. Until March 15 there's an extra 10% off to celebrate this, the line’s first foray into Asia.

A similar 7-day cruise on a modified itinerary departs Phuket on December 28, dropping back into that port for NYE and ending in Singapore on Saturday January 4. See travel agents, visit www.seadream.com, toll-free 1800 217 902.

A dozen other Asia/Australia Sea Dream cruises early next year include itineraries around Singapore, Bangkok, Bali, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Indonesia, East and West Timor, Seven Spirit Bay NT, Darwin, Cape York, Lizard Island, Port Douglas and Cairns.

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A T

T H E

G L A S S H O U S E

This month I’m really excited to be bringing you a taste of some of the world’s best festivals.

w ith Be linda G ibson

magine this ...

It is becoming increasingly difficult to discern the difference between the present and the past, between what is familiar and what is foreign. Events that took place just minutes ago are being constantly erased, while memories that you have been able to keep at bay for decades now come rushing towards you.

The realm of memory is a great mystery, and Sundowner's Syndrome remains an unanswered question. Why is it that just as the sun goes down, so many of those with Alzheimer's become particularly disorientated and confused?

KAGE, in partnership with Alzheimer's Australia, invites us into this mystery. In 2011 KAGE opened their first production of Sundowner to a sell-out season and this year Sundowner will undertake an impressive national tour to 32

venues around Australia over 17 weeks between February and June.

“You’re about to meet my Gran.

I’m sure you’ll like her. She’s funny and she’s kind. We have fun together … when she remembers who I am.

You see my Gran’s different. It’s a bit hard to understand at first, but my mum explained it to me.

There are just some things we need to do differently with Gran.

Like, please don’t ask her any questions cause questions make her confused. I know you don’t want to upset her, so, if you need to know anything just ask me. And I’ll tell you … Sometimes it’s like Gran is living in another time, like an imaginary world. Like when I’m in an imaginary world, like when I’m Ben Ten, my mum sometimes joins in. This is what we have to do with Gran too.

You see, my Gran is different … I love my Gran. I’m glad you are going to meet her.”

(Spike, Scene One SUNDOWNER) The opening scene of this play and Spike’s introduction in of his ‘Gran’ is the story of so many ‘Grans’ and so many grandchildren.

If we consider theatre as storytelling, this production tells the story of so many Australian families through the eyes of three generations. This is a story we can all connect with and identify with. The challenges of ageing and memory are so present and relevant to so many in our community, from sufferers to carers, children and grandchildren.

Sundowner is an extraordinary piece of theatre and is at the Glasshouse for just one night. This show has received rave reviews and with a special guest appearance from the original Tivoli Lovelies, the ladies who danced at the Tivoli Theatre all those years ago, this show is sure to be a moving and delightful night of very special storytelling.

greater port macquarie focus 41

Shop in our town and visit our unique boutique range of businesses. From giftware to fashion, coffee & dining, pubs & clubs all within easy walking distance.

WAU C H O P E

GUIDE. Class-ique Fashions.

Wauchope Lasiandra Festival.

• Simply beautiful fashion clothing for the mature woman.

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

• Size range 8 - 24.

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

Country Fair & Market Day Wauchope Indoor Stadium

33 High Street Phone. 6586 1324

Purple People Market & Shopping Day Thursday 14 March, Wauchope CBD

8.30am - 4pm, Sunday 10 March.

Wide array of local products and services on display.

Featuring the first event of the 'Creating in the Hastings' – Hip Hop Challenge.

Art & Craft Stalls For a full list of event, visit www.lasiandrafestival.com.au

Class-ique Fashions Style Fit Service

Wauchope Festival

Market Site Booking/Enquiries lasiandrafestival@gmail.com 0412 137 621

Hilberts Hardware PTY LTD. • Garden Fittings & Tools • Water & Poly Fittings • Door Fittings • Bolts, Nuts, Rivets, Screws, • Hand Rails – Cabling & Fittings • Various Hand Tool Brands SCMT10152 SC CMT10152

• Air Fittings & Tools • Hydraulics • Pressure Wash

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• 10 Drawer Heavy Duty Premium Grade Tool Chest • All Metric Top Tray • 1/4 1/4, 3/8 & 1/2”drive Sockets & Accessories • Impact Sockets, Inhex & Spline Sockets • 1/2”drive Torque Wrench • 1/2”drive Impact Wrench • Spanners: Combination, Flare Nut, Open End & Speed • Wrenches: Stubby Geared, Flex Head Geared, Adjustable • Pliers, Aviation Snips & Shears • Screwdrivers, Hex Keys, Vernier, Hacksaw, Mirror, Magnet, Feeler Gauge, Circuit Tester, Knife, Tape, Hammer, Punches & Chisels, Multimeter

$3399

ONLY

DEALS

2013

inc GST.

Other tool options available.

The Department Store.

COLOURFUL NEW SEASON FASHION IN STORE NOW Fabulous collection of Ladies, Men's & children's autumn and winter styles arriving daily.

Check out the new furniture items in our homewares section and new look kitchen department.

This season is all about COLOUR. ## 14 March – PURPLE PEOPLE SHOPPING DAY ## Prizes in store for the best dressed customers!

High Street, Wauchope.

Phone 6585 2299

42 greater port macquarie focus.

Customers travelling from over 100 km away know where to go!

In an age of big boxes and mega stores, Hilberts Hardware is a refreshing throwback to a time when good service trumped all else.

If you can’t get it at Hilberts Hardware, then you probably can’t get it!

Proud to support the 29th Annual Wauchope Lasiandra Festival.

43-45 Hastings Street Phone. 6585 2400 Fax. 6585 2435

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2 9 t h A n n u a l Wa u c h o p e L a s i a n d r a F e s t i v a l

feature.

29th Annual Wauchope

festival

Saturday 2 March to Saturday 6 April

As a prelude to the 30th Annual Festival in 2014, the Wauchope Lasiandra Festival Fest committee are proud to present a vibrant, fun filled event for the community across the month of March this year. icking off the festivities, on Saturday 2 March is the Hastings River Greyhound Clubs night meeting featuring the running of the 29th Lasiandra Cup mid schedule at 7pm. The greyhounds are a fun night out for all the family.

K

There are ma many events, old and new, on the festival ca calendar which is available by going to the website, www.lasiand www.lasiandrafestival.com.au Sunday 3 Ma March sees the Wauchope Youth Theatr Theatre present the 3rd Annual Lasia Lasiandra Cabaret Matinee.

An afternoon of brilliant entertainment in the spacio spacious Wauchope RSL Club Auditorium w will start at 1pm.

terrific routines, and a few surprises. Any enquiries can be left for Greta at The Framer (a valued sponsor) in Port Macquarie by phoning 6584 0184.

Two brand new festival events are on Saturday 9 March - the Hastings Valley Miniature Railway Family Fun Day and the Lifeline Lasiandra Garden Party. To Two brand new be held at Yippen Creek Reserve e festival events ar in Wauchope, The Mini Railway arch on Saturday 9 M y Family Fun Day will be a fun lle - the Hastings Va expedition for all the family ay Miniature Railw from 10am. Ride the mini rail and Family Fun Day dra for a gold coin donation, but an the Lifeline Lasi covered shoes are needed. n Party.”

“

Garde

Prices are aff affordable; $10 for adults and $5 for children unde under 10.

There will be some familiar faces, new cast members,

The Lifeline Lasiandra Garden Party will be held also from 10am at the Lifeline store in Cameron Street.

There will be face painting, cup cakes, kids' gardening and balloons – come and join the party.

greater port macquarie focus 43

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feature.

2 9 t h A n n u a l Wa u c h o p e L a s i a n d r a F e s t i v a l

di th ill b ti available or bring your own audience, there will be seating chair. Entry forms are still available for late entries from Coastal Music, Lincraft, The Framer/Art Supplies and Wauchope Charcoal Chicken.

e The first challeng in ', op H 'The Hip cchope the unique Wau of s rie se year long in the g in at re 'C ts even ld he be Hastings', will the ith w n io in conjunct m 9a .” market day from

“

The 'Lasiandra Country Fair & Market Day' will be held at Wauchope Indoor Sports Stadium Cameron Street on Sunday 10 March from 8am to 4pm – entry is FREE. A variety of exhibits and stalls, including local businesses and art and craft items will be on hand with lots to sample and take home.

The first cchallenge, 'The Hip Hop', in the unique Wauchope year long series of events - 'Creating in the Hastings', will be held in co conjunction with the market day from 9am.

The comm community can support this challenge as performers or

44 greater port macquarie focus.

Every school or community group in the Hastings can be involved. Expressions of interest have been sent out, and we hope to involve many performers in this first challenge. Ring Greta at The Framer 6584 0184 to book a spot or to find out some more information.

Thursday 14th will see the Wauchope CBD a hive of activity with the ever popular Purple People Shopping and Market Day in full swing. Organised by the Lasiandra Festival Committee sidewalk specials from participating businesses as well as art and craft market stalls will be in operation from 8.30am.

Easter Monday, 1 April will see the staging of Wauchope Jockey Club's 29th Annual Lasiandra Easter Cup at the Beechwood Road track. Being April Fool's Day, there will be prizes for the the craziest and best dressed purple outfits; race goers are encouraged to get with the theme and have fun.

For more information and site bookings at the Country Fair Market or Purple People Market Day, contact Festival Secretary Chrissy on mobile: 0412 137 621. You can visit www. lasiandrafestival.com.au for a full list of festival events.

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2 9 t h A n n u a l Wa u c h o p e L a s i a n d r a F e s t i v a l

feature.

29th Annual Wauchope

festival

Saturday 2nd March to Saturday 6th April

Programme of Events SATURDAY 2nd 7pm Hastings River Greyhound Club Night meeting featuring the “Lasiandra Cup” SUNDAY 3rd 1pm Purple People Cabaret with the Wauchope Youth Theatre Wauchope RSL Auditorium More Info/Bookings 0419 498 102 MONDAY 4th Women's Bowls – Lasiandra Triples Wauchope Country Club – Ph: 6585 3020 SATURDAY 9th 6.30am Battle of the Hastings – Mens Golf Wauchope Country Club – Ph: 6585 3020 10am Hastings Valley Miniature Railway – Family Fun Day – Ride the mini railway @ Yippen Creek Reserve – Gold Coin Donation to ride. Covered shoes must be worn.

10am–12 noon Lifeline Gardening Party Kids Face Painting, Balloons, Gardening and Cupcakes.

Lifeline Shop. 41 Cameron Street, Wauchope

SUNDAY 10th 8.30am Country Fair & Market Day Wauchope Indoor Sports Stadium, Cameron Street, Wauchope Exhibits include Lifestyle & Business Displays, Homegrown Produce, art, craft & bric-a-brac plus much more! Musical entertainment. Kids Amusements. Something for everyone!

Incorporating the “Creating In the Hastings” HIP HOP CHALLENGE. All schools are invited to enter. More information: Ph: 0419 498 102 FREE ENTRY. Market stall bookings: 0412 137 621 or email: lasiandrafestival@gmail.com 10am - JAZZ in the Vineyard – Bago Vineyards MONDAY 11th 9am Ladies Veteran's Golf Wauchope Country Club Ph: 6585 3020 TUESDAY 12th 8.30am Men's Veterans Golf Wauchope Country Club Ph: 6585 3020

WEDNESDAY 13th 8.30am Ladies Golf Day Wauchope Country Club Ph: 6585 3020 5pm Men's Bowls – JACK DWYER MEMORIAL TRIPLES Wauchope Country Club – Ph: 6585 3020 THURSDAY 14th 8.30am PURPLE PEOPLE SHOPPING DAY Art & Craft Markets in the Wauchope CBD Sidewalk shop specials.

Judging Staff Costume, Window Front & Premises Displays PURPLE & PINK DAY Timbertown Child Care FRIDAY 15th 3.30pm Lasiandra Junior Tennis Classic Ph: Bob 0400 446 085 SATURDAY 16th 7pm Lasiandra Rock N Roll Dance & Disco.

Everyone is invited to come along for a great night with music by Chuck E. Gold Coin Donation Entry - Lucky Door Prizes, Spot Prizes, Dance Competitions - Heaps of Fun For All The

Family.

Wauchope Country Club Auditorium.

Enquiries Chuck E 6559 8332 or Chrissy 0412 137 621 SUNDAY 17th 5pm Saint Patrick's Day Purple Picnic Lasiandra Park, Cameron Street, Wauchope Sausage Sizzle at a small cost. All welcome.

SUNDAY 31st Diamond Ring Golf Day Sponsored by Jons Family Jewellers Wauchope Country Club Ph: 6585 3020 MONDAY 1st April Wauchope Jockey Club's 29th Annual Lasiandra Easter Cup - PRIZES FOR BEST PURPLE DRESSED AT THE TRACK 5pm 29th Annual Lasiandra Festival Awards Presentation. Lasiandra Park, Cameron Street, Wauchope

greater port macquarie focus 45

focusinterview.

WAUCHOPE

show Edo and Jo are acclaimed Australian kirtan artists and singer-songwriters.

Their music takes the listener on a journey of Eastern mystical mantras and joyous melodies, with the marriage of lush vocal harmonies, rapturous rhythms and gentle devotion acting as honey droplets for the soul. Their live kirtan events organically infuse audiences with divine connection, emotional release and inner transformation.

Edo is an award-winning songwriter (APRA song of the year 2009) and his songs feature regularly in films, TV and on radio (with his bands Kahn Brothers and Gelbison). Jo is classically trained in flute and piano and holds an ethereal voice and innate melodic sensibility. As a creative force, their voices are a gentle and powerful invitation into the depths of the heart. Edo and Jo have dedicated their lives to conscious living, bhakti yoga (the yogic path of the heart) and humanitarian service, and their songs reflect this pathway to surrender and love.

Edo and Jo have toured in Australia with Dave Stringer and internationally in Bali and India including Twee Merrigan, Yoga Arts (Louisa Sear,

46 greater port macquarie focus.

Lucy Roberts), Emil Wendel, Yogacoach (Mark Breadner, Tanya Halleday). They have started a charitable touring initiative (Gift of Life) in support of a program in India raising money for heart surgeries for children born with congenital heart defects. In Sydney, they also work as music therapists for people with special needs, incorporating chanting as a healing modality.

the plug!

Edo and Jo will be coming to The Yoga Shala in Port Macquarie on 8 - 9 March as part of their 2013 Summer Tour, and will be showcasing Kirtan & Sound Yoga.

8-9

8 March, 7.30pm: Kirtan - $35 / $25 conc.

9 March , 11 - 1pm : Sacred Sound Yoga - $35 / $25 conc.

Both events: $60 Tickets at: www.theyogashala.com.au

he Wauchope Show Ball will be running again this year. Please tell our readers how it got started? The Ball was regenerated for our 100th Show in 2010 as part of the show festivities. The ball is a way for everyone to come together in a more formal evening, have a bit of fun while providing an opportunity for the showgirls to be introduced and begin their journey to become the annual Miss Showgirl.

What is the night all about, and who can go? The theme for each ball changes annually, and this year we are following a garden theme with a shabby chic focus with flowers, fairy lights and decorations galore. Everyone is invited to attend, including children under parent supervision. The dress code for the night is open this year; however, we encourage semi-formal wear. The music is by Swing Shift, who offers a 50-50 variety, including old time

dancing.

Would you say the ball is the official start to the Show that falls on 5 and 6 of April this year, and how is it shaping up? Yes, the ball is the official start to the show festivities. This year the show promises to deliver another outstanding selection of events, including the bull ride, a full 4 race trotting program over the two days, family favourite fireworks, lawn mower races and the wood chop.

How can people purchase tickets, and what information do they need to know before turning up? People can purchase tickets from Street Smart Clothing, High Street, Wauchope before the 7 Mar 2013.

The tickets are $25 each and need to be purchased ahead of the night. Tea and coffee are provided, but it is BYO food and drinks. For further information, contact Leanne on 0488 774 420.

Photos Courtesy of Noel Mac Millan

focusinterview.

Dale Velvet-Rose, aka Dale Rankmore, has her foot firmly in two worlds … CEO of local enterprise Business Mechanic, with all the modern day issues of computer technology, people management and career challenges; plus, she also personifies the ideal woman from the 1950s – stylish, glamorous, while embracing the simpler things in life that the era offered. Dale will compete in the Miss Prestige category of the NSW finals of Miss Pinup Australia on March 16 …

Dale

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here do you work?

I am the Team Crew Chief (CEO) of Business Mechanic; we do bookkeeping, business management, marketing and human resources for small business. In other words – we tune and service businesses!

Apparently you’ve been busy winning hearts from an early age! What were the competitions you won when you were a child?

Yes, I started very young – I was actually awarded Happiest Baby at a work function of my father’s. The trophy still sits proudly in my trophy cabinet.

In 1969, I entered Little Miss BIG W at Liverpool in Sydney – even though I was only 3 years old, I can still remember bits and pieces of the competition. In the final of that competition, I was asked to wear an outfit from BIG W, which was purchased for me after my win – and I still have my sash and my outfit today.

How did you first become interested in pinup competitions, and what is it about the 1950s era that you’re particularly drawn to?

Ever since I was young, I have always enjoyed watching the movies of the 1940s and 1950s, from the wonderful musicals, the Ester Williams water ballet/musicals, Elvis (my mother is a huge Elvis fan) movies, Marilyn Monroe movies and I Love Lucy with Lucille Ball. My parents also influenced me, as they grew up during the wonderful days of the ’40s & the ’50s. I remember as a child dressing up in my mother’s rope petticoat – oh how I wish I had it today!

The main things that draw me towards the 1950s is the beautiful innocence of that era, the cars/hot rods, the glamour, the style – when women’s curves were worshipped – women looked sexy, sensual and stylish, without showing the whole package (so to speak). It

is nice to be able to somewhat escape into Australia Competition and will vie for the title on March 16 at Port Panthers. Explain this era – by dressing pinup or baking a lemon your journey from the time you entered meringue pie – it is nice to get back to the the competition … simple things in life.

Firstly, I needed to arrange for some vintage My first experience with vintage was when I pinup style photographs taken by the official attended a vintage styling workshop at a Port photographer in NSW – which is Miss Pixie of Macquarie Rock and Roll festival in 2011, then I Boogie Bop Dames.

She transformed me even decided to attend the Grand Final of Miss Pinup more and helped me channel my inner pinup. I Australia in 2012 – which had a Vintage Ball completed an online application form, and sent theme – this was where I started researching, this in to Miss Pinup Australia with my 3 photos. clothing, hairstyles and makeup of the era. And The general public was then able to vote for us the more I got involved, the more I liked it. In on the Miss Pinup Australia website.

When the April 2012, I entered a local pinup competition, judges were deciding who would go through which I enjoyed very much … particularly to the State Finals, they looked at our my fellow competitors; they were applications, the voting and how we so beautiful and helpful. It were interacting with our fellow wasn’t like a traditional pinups and the general public modelling competition. also s nt re pa y M as a whole.

I was then part of the as influenced me, You’re competing in pinup family; we all e th ng ri du up ew gr ey th the ‘Miss Prestige’ support and help s ul days of the ’40 rf de on w category. What does each other and r as ’50s. I remembe y e th & this entail? others outside the in m child dressing up oat a The Miss Prestige community. From ttic mother’s rope pe d it ha category in Miss Pinup this competition I – oh how I wish Australia is for pinups I actually made it today!” who are over the age of into an Australia/ 40 – Miss Pinup Australia has New Zealand Hot Rod many different categories and magazine – in my lingerie, embraces all the different guises of none the less – it was wonderful, pinup and the different types of women. and such a shot in the arm, so to speak, With Miss Prestige being a category for for this 47 year old. the mature pinups, it is a requirement that our How long has the Miss Pinup outfi ts are predominantly vintage – including Australia competition been running? accessories such as gloves, shoes and hats.

Miss Pinup Australia was started in 2010 by We are expected to show the classical, Miss Pixie of Boogie Bop Dames; she wanted glamorous style using our life experience and a platform for everyday women of all shapes, personal style in our posing routines for our sizes and ages to embark on a wonderful daywear, swimwear, lingerie, eveningwear and personal journey of gaining self confidence, our talent section. finding self love, and respecting yourself for the Where do you source your vintage outfits? beautiful person that you are. Entering Miss I have been combing the opportunity shops Pinup Australia is more than a competition; it in the Hastings area and the internet for items. I is the beginning or the continuation of your am always on the look out for vintage clothing, Pinup journey. jewellery, hats, shoes and other accessories – so You’re a NSW finalist in the Miss Pinup

“

if anyone out there has some that they would like to sell … it would be wonderful to actually meet the person who owned or knew the person who owned these beautiful pieces, and obtain some history on them – as I find I fall in love with the history of the outfit, as much as the outfit itself.

Who would you like to thank for helping you get this far?

I would like to thank my beautiful partner, Noel Mac Millan, for all of his support and encouragement to get out there and involve myself and compete in the Vintage Pinup Competition – he enjoys it and feels proud to see me on stage.

I would also like to thank my mother and my stepfather, Alice and Phillip Beaven and my clients and staff, who have also been very supportive of me doing my pinup competitions – but I must thank my fellow pinups and Miss Pixie of course, for encouraging me to enter and helping me to realise the fun, self discovering journey that is Miss Pinup Australia.

What will it mean to you if you win the NSW finals?

It would be wonderful to win the NSW Miss Pinup Australia title of Miss Prestige; it would be the icing on the cake for me – I have enjoyed the process of getting into the final and preparing for the final. If I won, I would use this title to promote vintage pinup as a lifestyle and how it has had a positive influence on all aspects of my life.

If I win the NSW title, I would then gain the opportunity to compete in the Miss Pinup Australia Grand Final on 20 April 2013.

Where can people contact you to offer support?

They can find me on Facebook under Miss Dale Velvet-Rose or Miss Pinup Australia website www.misspinupaustralia.com.au or Miss Pinup Australia free iPhone app – where you can still vote for me and follow my progress. Or, telephone me on (02) 6583 8386.

Thanks Dale. Interview by Jo Atkins. greater port macquarie focus 47

48 greater port macquarie focus.

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I am enthusiastic about capturing and celebrating every individual’s beauty and uniqueness.”

Managing Director

Stephanie Lewis Aromatics Skin Clinic

Robyn Gleeson. Elders Real Estate Port Macquarie

What is the unique selling point in your business?

How would you describe your business? Elders Port

Tell us about Renee Bell Studios: Renee Bell Studios is

We pride ourselves in providing the ultimate results with Danné Montague-Kings’ DMK products. DMK’s amazing formulations of 90% active ingredients is a transdermal system that works down at a cellular level to improve function and strength of skin. It allows us to treat many skin conditions using result driven resurfacing treatments.

Macquarie is one of the largest real estate offices on the Mid

an award winning photography business in Port Macquarie,

North Coast, offering a full range of real estate services. The

specialising in portraiture and wedding photography. I am the

business has been established for over 30 years and employs

principal photographer and have been in the photography

26 talented real estate professionals.

industry for the past 10 years. Renee Bell Studios is now

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? Aromatics have continually donated services and treatments to support local charities and businesses.

The awards are all about the team, and we are preparing for year. We have achieved the HIGHEST NUMBER OF LETTING

What has been happening over the past year? Our latest

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? To accommodate all our clients’ needs we are now open later; Wednesdays until 7pm and Thursdays until 9pm.

We have a monthly special available from Aromatics and DMK, so there is always a bargain to be had!

NSW/ACT 5 quarters in a row, and sit inside No. 5 offices

project is a couture style photography shoot called ‘Beautiful

in NSW/ACT for sales recognition; we have also received

Me’. I am enthusiastic about capturing and celebrating every

ELITE status within our property management team 3 years

individual’s beauty and uniqueness. The shoot encompasses

in succession. It’s a great incentive for the team to be able

our professional makeup artist Jolin Shead, to ensure the

to attend the gala function and walk away with state and

client’s best features are emphasised. I advise the client on

national awards.

what clothing is suitable and the results are simply spectacular;

What’s your business’ competitive edge? We are located just out of the main CBD. With plenty of parking right outside the door, you’re ensured privacy and convenience. Our staff are in Sydney 3 times a year for training, and we have regular consultation days with the head educators for our clients.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? Celebrating our 15th year in business! We have been awarded excellence in service and sales from DMK for 2012 and are nominated for the local industry awards regularly.

Tell us about your recent awards? We are proud to have a highly motivated, committed and fun inspired team on board. another award presentation function in Sydney, in March this

What is the best advice you could give other women

Renee Bell Renee Bell Studios

the largest photography studio in Port Macquarie, with five wedding photographers for clients to choose from. Each photographer is specialised with their own unique style and years of experience to draw from.

they would not be out of place in a fashion magazine.

who would like to make real estate a career? The

We also won another award in the International Loupe

industry can be very rewarding and fulfilling, providing you

Awards for one of our couture sessions.

are prepared to commit at a deep level. My advice is not to

What keeps you focused? We are a family focused business.

get carried away with the addiction, keep grounded and

My husband and I have two beautiful children, who are the

make sure you have a healthy balance in your life including

pride and joy of our lives. I use this love for family and children

an exercise routine and plenty of fun times with family and

to capture candid, priceless family portraits that can be

friends.

cherished by your family for generations.

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As part of this program I train Clinic staff and Aboriginal health workers in basic foot care. ”

Marilyn Chambers. Mums And Bubs Market

Sara Coombes. Twinkle Toes Podiatry

What is the unique selling point in your business? The Mums and Bubs Market provides a unique environment for families within our community to buy and sell second-hand goods and handcrafted products for babies, children and mothers. It is a market that connects people.

What's your business’ competitive edge? I am an Accredited Member of the NSW Podiatry Association, indicating I have doubled the required continuing professional education requirements for registration. I was the first podiatrist in the Hastings/Macleay region to gain my Masters in Health Science (Podiatry) and am currently enrolled with Curtin University (WA) studying diabetes education.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities?

Our Mums and Bubs Market is a circle of support – locally and globally. It’s all about mums supporting mums! Locally, we provide a place for people to promote their businesses and families to get great bargains. And in turn, funds from the market support families and communities overseas in developing countries, like Kenya.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? From 2013, the Mums and Bubs Market will be trading quarterly rather than monthly. This enables us to really showcase our

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committed stallholders, attract new businesses, and generate more buyers for each market.

We’re excited!

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating. In April 2013, the market will be three years old, and this is something we are very proud of. On a personal note, I was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow Award by Rotary for my work in the local community and my charity work overseas. This is one of the highest awards in Rotary, and I am very honoured to receive it.

What’s your business’ competitive edge?

Our stallholders are our competitive edge, as they bring a wonderful range of pre-loved and new products to our market.

If you’re interested in becoming a stallholder or just want to stay up to date with the Mums and Bubs Market, like us on Facebook.

How does your business support initiatives or charities? I spend 4 - 6 weeks per year in remote communities between Alice Springs and the Western Australian border in Central Australia, teaching and implementing the Indigenous Diabetic Foot care Program. As part of this program I train Clinic staff and Aboriginal health workers in basic foot care.

This program has been very effective in reducing severe ulcerations and amputations across these

communities over the past 5 years.

What is unique about your business? In my practice in Wauchope, I implement the preventative methods I use in the bush to promote good foot health. Wearing the correct footwear for your type of foot and activity can be enough to stop foot pain. Further treatments may include stretches and strengthening exercises and orthotics. I prefer to work closely with your GP, other health professionals and exercise trainers to reduce the effects of the cumulative injury cycles associated with lower limb pain.

I am able to provide all aspects of foot care, and a detailed booklet of all treatments offered is available at my office at 3/7 High Street, Wauchope. The practice is open on Tuesday from 8.20am to 4pm and Fridays 8.20am to 2pm.

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Sprague & Associates, Coastal Financial

Tahlee, Michelle, Tyara, Rochelle. & Insurance Services and Coastal Legal. Jo, Lusanna and Megan.

Meet the better half of the team from Sprague & Associates, Coastal Financial & Insurance Services and Coastal Legal.

to further my career in the accounting field through work experience and professional development.

The group forms part of the one-stop shop for all your Accounting, Financial Planning, Insurance and Legal requirements.

Rochelle Letchford – Paraplanner/Team Support Officer: Joining Coastal Financial Planning & Insurance Services during 2012 was a total career change for me. I am loving learning everything I need to, with a vision of what I am going to pursue as my new career.

Michelle Hogan – Accountant: It has been over 12 months now since I joined the team at Sprague & Associates. It has been a rewarding transition with meeting and creating relationships with both new clients and other team members. I want to thank all those who have supported me over this time, including family, friends and clients.

Tyara Hughes – Team Support Officer: I’m the first point of contact when you visit our group, and joined Sprague & Associates mid 2012. New to the industry, I am looking forward to continuing to gain the knowledge

Tahlee Sala – Assistant Accountant: I have had over six years’ experience in the accounting industry, having been with the team at Sprague & Associates just over 2 years. I am the firm’s payroll and company secretarial specialist.

So call any of our girls to help you with your business needs: Sprague & Associates: (02) 6584 9681, Coastal Financial & Insurance Services: (02) 6583 6178, Coastal Legal: (02) 6583 6178.

Meg & Me

Who are we? Meg and Me is owned and operated by Lusanna Klotz, who currently employs two local ladies, Megan Murray and Jo Timmins. Lusanna encourages both Megan and Jo to put their own personal touch on the business and is very proud of her team.

At Meg and Me we believe it's an important part of the boutique experience to have women who are able to identify with our customers’ style and assist them with all their fashion and accessory needs.

the store. We also strive to offer a variation of price points, to encourage individuality on any budget!

What makes your business unique? Our motto is: "To make it into Meg and Me – it has to be Unique!" So, we are constantly sourcing products for our customers that satisfy their desire for something different ... We are conscious that style and taste is very personal, and we ensure that there is something for everyone each time they visit

What is in the future for Meg and Me? Meg and Me's uniqueness will continue to evolve throughout 2013, with the team sourcing even more exclusive brands for our loyal customers. We look forward to the continued support of our existing customers and the opportunity to meet more fabulous women during the year!

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? Recent additions to Meg and Me's existing exclusive brands include the fabulous clothing range, SanCerre, and Elk Accessories. Both labels offer our customers a level of comfort and style that surpasses expectations and feature great pieces to incorporate into any wardrobe.

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At Dudes and Dolls, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and a relaxing, pampering salon experience.”

JK Healthcare.

Maria Visvikis, Jodie Kennett and Jessica Moss (Kylie Battiston absent)

JK Healthcare is owned by Dietitian/Diabetes Educator Jodie Kennett, who has worked locally for the last 7 years. In June 2012, she expanded to meet the requests of her rapidly growing business.

It now includes Dietitian Jessica Moss and friendly receptionists Maria Visvikis and Kylie Battiston.

What is a unique selling point of your business? Lots! We strive to provide clear, realistic and long term education regarding your individual dietary and Diabetes needs. The practice has a friendly, home-style feeling and is centrally located.

How does your business support other local organisations? We conduct weekly clinics at the Lake Cathie Medical centre, local nursing homes, schools, daycare centres and the Port Macquarie Private Hospital. You can even ask us to visit you at home, or come to your business to conduct a staff health program or inservice.

52 greater port macquarie focus.

Tanya Arnold.

Owner / Stylist / Beauty Therapist - Dudes & Dolls Hair

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? We have recently created a group room. We will be holding Weight Loss Groups (men’s and women’s), ‘Heart Health’ to lower cholesterol and blood pressure, virtual ‘Supermarket Tours’ and ‘Back to School’ to teach families what to put in the kids’ lunchboxes for school or daycare. This area can also be rented out by other organisations for their own groups or meetings. Book now by ringing 6583 7717.

What is the unique selling point in your business? At Dudes and Dolls, we pride ourselves on excellent customer service and a relaxing, pampering salon experience. We are big on technical education to keep up to date with the latest styles and techniques and recently had a colour training day with CPR Vitafive, in which we were educated and able to work alongside a very talented and creative product developer.

What’s your business’ competitive edge? We listen and respond to the needs and requests of our customers. We also have a recipe library that people can drop in and read, as well as current books and resources to buy – you don’t even need an appointment!

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? We have a variety of charities and events that we donate to. Locally we have supported the ladies charity Bling night, Ronald McDonald Charity Ball and the Port Macquarie lady golfers.

We also have a FREE monthly newsletter full of tips and tricks, which anyone can subscribe to by emailing admin@jkhealthcare.com.au

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? We are introducing the new Vita 5 CPR colours and product range. CPR

Vitafive colours have quality ingredients that condition the hair from the inside out, resulting in brilliant colours, condition and shine. CPR Vitafive is an Australian company, and the colours and products have been developed and produced in Australia. CPR Vitafive’s shampoo and conditioner is paraben and sulphate free, suitable for hair extensions, and hair that has had keratin smoothing treatments.

What's your business’ competitive edge?

Education and training. The better our staff and ourselves are educated, the better the results are that we can deliver to our clients. We never seem to sit still! We are always looking for the next way to improve our techniques, or ideas on how to offer more services and a better experience for our clientele. We’re looking forward to Hair Expo in Sydney a little later in the year.

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We have a great mix of furniture pieces, lamps and homewares ranging from cushions to vases to candelabras and hanging lanterns.”

Penny White. elements of design What is the unique selling point in your business? elements of design prides itself on UNIQUENESS. After creating the boutique 2 years ago this June, we have many regular customers along with many new ones every day; we are overwhelmed by the comments we receive from customers that visit our boutique and enjoy the ambience that has been created to make their visit a relaxing and enjoyable one.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? Whilst we are constantly sourcing new labels, we will always stock our ever popular ones that will always be unique to elements of design.

We have a great mix of furniture pieces, lamps and homewares ranging from cushions to vases to candelabras and hanging lanterns. Also in store is the beautiful glasshouse fragrance range

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I was just certified as an ADMA (Asia Digital Marketing Association) approved Digital Marketer!”

Jane Hillsdon. consisting of candles, diffusers, hand body creams and soaps, all of which matches back nicely with our ever expanding clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories range, creating a lovely package that we put together to give you window displays with an edgey wow factor every week! Come and visit us weekdays from 8.30am – 5pm and Saturdays 8.30am – 1pm.

What's your business’ competitive edge? elements of design has two other additions to its name with the baby boutique eod vintage and clearance in the same building two doors up stocking fantastic clearance lines at bargain prices. Trading hours are Thursday and Friday 10am – 2pm and Saturdays 10am – 12.30pm.

The other addition is a creative and funky Facebook site with daily posts to keep you up to date with up and coming style trends, as well as new arrivals. Check it out and LIKE our page: www.facebook.com/elementsofdesignwauchope

Principal Consultant - Dragonfly Marketing

What is the unique selling point in your business? Dragonfly Marketing offers businesses the right mix of traditional and digital marketing solutions. We can plan, manage and execute our clients’ marketing activity, which allows them to concentrate on running their business and servicing their customers. We ensure that businesses have every opportunity to take advantage of the many online and offline marketing/communication tools that are available to them.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? I’m quite passionate about supporting the local community, and so as a business I offer a ‘not-for-profit’ rate for charities that need some guidance with their marketing.

I’m also a ‘Bling for the Girls’ committee member, and in the past 4 years the committee have managed to donate over $65,000 worth of funds

into much needed services for local women.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? I’ve got quite a few initiatives in the pipeline that aim to help empower SMEs to more effectively integrate successful marketing solutions into their business.

I currently offer one-on-one social media marketing training courses for businesses, which have been really well received and have led to some great results. The proposed initiatives are simply an extension of these (and then some).

Watch this space!

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? I was just certified as an ADMA (Asia Digital Marketing Association) approved Digital Marketer!

What’s your business’ competitive edge? We provide a marketing service that is flexible and adaptable in an ever-changing market.

Dragonfly Marketing specialises in innovative, creative and effective digital marketing solutions for your business.

Strategic Marketing Planning and Implementation Website Marketing

Want loads of free small business marketing tips emailed to you regularly?

Sign up for our e-newsletter at dragonflymarketing.com.au.

Social Media Strategy and Implementation E-mail Marketing Campaigns

Scan this code to ‘Like’ Dragonfly Marketing on Facebook

Online Advertising Market Research Online Branding

Jane Hillsdon 0420 853 283 jane@dragonflymarketing.com.au dragonflymarketing.com.au

greater port macquarie focus 53

(LtoR Andrea Caldwell – Board Member, Jan Strom – Board Member, Jo-Anne Stavely – Board Member, Dawn Thornton – Secretary & Public Officer, (LtoR) Cassie Crompton – Project Assistant, Megan McGill – Project Officer Engagement, Jenni Kew – Office Manager. Jacquie Houlden – Board Member.

Cassi

Regional Development Australia.

R Connecting people throughout the region from the coast through the valleys is one of the C key objectives for the Women of Regional Development Australia. We find out more ... ke

W

hat is Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast?

Regional Development Australia (RDA) is a partnership between the Australian, State and Local Governments to develop and strengthen the regional communities of Australia. RDA Mid North Coast is a not for profit Incorporated Association that operates in the dynamic environment of the local government areas of Greater Taree, Port Macquarie/Hastings, Kempsey, Nambucca, Bellingen, Coffs Harbour and Lord Howe Island.

A key role of the RDA is to act as a conduit between business/community and government to ensure that government is responsive to local needs and priorities. RDA Mid North Coast has three principle objectives including ‘Connecting People, Coast and Valleys’ to broker and facilitate the development of the region connecting via partnership with stakeholders.

How will the Mid North Coast become more competitive in 2013?

RDA Mid North Coast has been at the vanguard for advocacy and promotion of High Speed Broadband and the value of NBN Co, producing Australia’s first Regional Digital Strategy. The roll out of the NBN in Coffs and across the region is a game changing opportunity for regional Australia.

Coffs Harbour is currently in the process of the fibre rollout with Taree soon to follow. The exciting

news for the region is that Fixed Wireless & relevance these include: Research, Communication, Satellite will service nearly 22% of the region to be Facilitation, Alignment and Leadership. fully operational by the end of 2013.

One of our most important tools we have We are providing information to Councils, is research. Government and industry are Business and the community through our constantly producing quality data relevant to our “Broadband Toolkit” on line through our region. However the most important website (www.radmidnorthcoast. consideration for RDA Mid org.au). RDA Mid North Coast North Coast is to interpret id M A D R is the producer for the major that research and identify The expo in Coffs Harbour, implications that may North Co ast has jectives ob e pl ci in pr e T.H.E (Technologybenefit or impact industry thre cting Heath-Education) and/or our community. including ‘Conne Valleys’ d People, Co ast an ate Exchange Expo & RDA Mid North Coast cilit to broker and fa Seminar program. This in partnership with t of the developmen year T.H.E Exchange the La Trobe University ecting the region conn will be rolled out as a commercialised Regional with p hi rs via partne Road-show in each of the Economic Modelling & stakeholders.” local government areas and Planning tool (REMPLAN); will complement the Digital has developed a free ‘Regional Champions project where we Digital App’ on its website (www. are looking for individuals to promote radmidnorthcoast.org.au). The App is their digital broadband experience to their free and provides research data on up to community. T.H.E Exchange will be in each 19 industry categories and compares any of the of the council areas in July – be prepared for the 6 LGAs with the whole region and NSW. We digital revolution. encourage everyone to become familiar with the How do we identify and communicate the key RDA/REMPLAN ‘Regional Data App’. While the app issues for the Mid North Coast? is simple to use, in the coming months we will be Our purpose is to develop and facilitate providing free seminars to Business Chambers and industry in our region and it is up to all of us to economic, social and environmental organisation be competitive in the current economic climate. on how to best exploit the data – contact RDA Mid RDA Mid North Coast utilises five tools to ensure North Coast for further details.

“

How do you communicate the key issues and achievements for the Mid North Coast?

RDA Mid North Coast’s website (www. radmidnorthcoast.org.au) has become a portal for information on Industry, Community and Government. A cornerstone of our communications strategy, the site is a model for other RDAs around Australia, carrying information from the Broadband Toolkit, Grant Links & other Resources. In addition, the site offers details of RDA MNC services, including the Regional Migration Scheme (RMS) and other Federal programs such as the Regional Development Australia Fund.

RDA MNC recently audited its Web Traffic for the last year identifying over 25,000 unique URL visits. More significantly though was that 39% of those were return visitors and that the average time of the site was over 3.5 minutes per visitor.

In summary RDA Mid North Coast’s Board and Staff are pleased to contribute to the FOCUS ‘Women in Business’ supplement, and we thank the women involved in our region for their leadership to our objective: ‘Connecting our products, services and capacity to our neighbours, our nation and the world’.

RDA Mid North Coast Phone. (02) 5525 1500.

Email. admin@rdamidnorthcaost.org.au

Visit our website for: Access to regional news and information Regional data for the Mid North Coast from Coffs Harbour to Taree Regional indicators bi-monthly publication Available grant information The Strategic Regional Leadership Conference The International Year of Co-Operatives National Conference T.H.E Exchange – Technology, Health, Education Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme The latest information on the NBN rollout

www.rdamidnorthcoast.org.au

MID NORTH COAST NSW

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Donna-Lee Redfern, Beryl Smith, Danni Bartlett

Natasha Hamblin. Port Macquarie Physio and Pilates

The Team.

What's your business’ competitive edge? We pride ourselves on our lovely friendly staff, who will ensure your visit is as pleasant as it can possibly be. Today we would like to introduce our new physiotherapist, Natasha Hamblin. Natasha has recently moved to Port Macquarie with her husband, Josh, and their twins, James and Lachlan. Natasha works in all other areas of physiotherapy in our practice, and we are excited to have her join our team.

What is the unique selling point in your business?

It is a Paediatric Practice which is referral based, usually from Paediatricians, Doctors, Psychologists, Early Intervention Centres and schools.

What is the unique selling point in your business? Scent

How does your business support local initiatives or charities?

We are involved in Autism Awareness through the Autism Day Port Macquarie initiative, sponsored by a Community Grant from the Hastings Council. SSOT was a consultant to Hastings Council, in the planning and design of the All Abilities Playground in Wauchope. We have donated money to the annual Variety Christmas Party hosted for children with disabilities.

customers, whether it’s in store, over the phone or online.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating?

We are celebrating our new Occupational Therapist, Danni Bartlett. She joins Donna-Lee Redfern, our Admin Assistant, and myself to complete our team.

home makeover. We research the latest innovative designs

She has spent most of her physiotherapy career at The Children’s Hospital, Westmead, specialising in paediatrics. Here she dealt with children with Cerebral Palsy, orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions, and complex neurological conditions from birth.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? Up to date physiotherapy treatments in our modern clinic for all aches and pains. Our clinical Pilates is ideal as part of a rehabilitation program from injury, as pre or postnatal strengthening, balance retraining, core strength for sport, or as part of a general fitness program. The sessions are all individually focused and supervised by a physiotherapist.

What is the unique selling point in your business? Port Macquarie Physiotherapy and Pilates is a small friendly business run by working mums and Physiotherapists Kathy Lawrence and Catherine McLean. Since opening in July 2011, we have grown from strength to strength, sharing our expertise in all areas of physiotherapy, women's health and clinical Pilates.

Sensory SMART OT

What’s your business’ competitive edge?

SSOT has a specific interest in helping children and families overcome the difficulties they face in their home or school with daily activities, behaviour or learning. We offer workshops for parents - ‘Parenting Preschoolers with Autism and other Diagnoses, ‘Toilet Time’ and ‘Sleepwise’. Also, workshops for children 6 - 9 years old – ‘The Alert Programme’, and ‘Hands up for The Handwriting Club’.

Nardia Chapman. Wheatley and Co and vision complete the atmosphere for customers on their treasure hunt at Wheatley and Co. Fabulous service is our top priority. We provide a complete shopping experience for We pride ourselves on spending time with every customer, providing superb taste and thoughtful suggestions. We also hold exclusive champagne nights to launch new collections.

What are you offering that is new? We are passionate about design, offering personalised interior styling for customers’ homes, whether it’s choosing new cushions by KAS Australia to revamp a lounge setting or a complete and materials at trade shows across the country to assist customers.

What's your competitive edge? We strive to be different, searching high and low for items that aren’t readily available in mainstream stores. The shop is exciting and ever-changing, with exclusive brands including jewellery from internationally renowned designer and former Port Macquarie gal Samantha Wills, as well as unique brands including Ecoya. We also stock Albi Homewares and Equator Furniture. If we don’t have it in stock, we will go the extra yards to make sure our customers’ needs are met.

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Jess & Kylie Johnson.

Kylie’s Art Studio & Supplies

What is the unique selling point in your business?

Kylie’s Art Studio and Supplies offers a growing range of quality art supplies, plus unique gifts and homewares – including artwork for sale by local artists. Looking for a special gift? A portrait of your pet or loved one is a popular choice for many.

We also offer classes in acrylic painting.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? Since opening in December 2011, we have supported numerous local charities and placed advertising flyers of local events in our window.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013?

We have a larger selection of art supplies, including FaberCastell watercolour pencils, calligraphy pens and inks, quality drawing equipment, scrapbooking supplies, timber blanks for painting, oil painting paper pads plus much more. Our gift lines have increased, with new and exciting additions including talking Noah bears, which have special heartfelt messages, and don’t forget our Spineless Classics – classic novels on a poster.

We will also be continuing with our acrylic painting classes.

Recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? We just celebrated our first year in business and are looking forward to many more!

What’s your business’ competitive edge?

The growing range of quality art supplies, including brands such as Art Spectrum, Matisse, Jo Sonja and Faber-Castell, plus our classes in acrylic painting.

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b u s i n e s s

SMS Strata Management Group

What is the unique selling point in your business? We are specialists – we’re community and strata management specialists and nothing else. Only when you’re focused on one segment of the industry can you become completely immersed in the legislation as it applies to your clients’ property.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? We’ve supported local business networking groups and Senior’s Week, Ovarian Cancer Week and more.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013?

We’re considering a referral program – so clients recommend us to other strata owners that they know. Many of our clients and prospective clients mix socially, so it makes sense that we reward loyalty in that way.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating?

We celebrated 25 years in business and acquired another strata business, making us the largest independent strata management firm in regional NSW. What’s your business’ competitive edge? A happy office with a flexible boss! Not all strata issues are happy ones, yet we remain calm and cheerful for the benefit of our clients. We pool our intellectual resources to come up with solutions that only a united team can.

Penny Cameron.

What is the unique selling point in your business? At Willow House and Baby, we have a unique and beautiful range of gift wear and traditional smock baby clothing.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? This year we will be introducing the very talented Sue Jason collection. Pop in and see for yourself the very clever Australian designed and printed mugs, cards and fridge magnets; you’re sure to get a giggle from the creative and clever designs. We have also recently been to the trade fair, and arriving at our store shortly will be very beautiful baby furniture.

A trip to our store is definitely something on your need to do list.

Recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? Willow House and Baby will see their 13th year within the same premises, which is along Clarence Street right here in Port Macquarie, just next to Macquarie Seafoods. We will also be renovating the shop very soon, which is rather exciting.

What’s your business’ competitive edge?

Our competitive edge would be the fact that we have a vast range of gifts that are special and unique; we take pride in looking after our customers’ needs when it comes to decorating their home or finding that memorable gift for any ages.

We also regularly visit the trade fairs in Sydney and Melbourne to keep up to date with the latest releases in home decoration.

As well, we’re open 7 days for convenient shopping.

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Mel Haverfield. Emily Acheson. Verde Bamboo

Hastings Family Day Care.

What’s your business’ competitive edge?

Managing Director Mel Haver< eld and sister Emily Acheson of Verde Bamboo have been instrumental in creating decorator colours to enhance the popularity of bamboo < ooring in Australia.

Back L -R , HFDC Educators: Meg Hillard, Kathy Patton, Melinda Magnus and Fiona Rodgers Front L - R , HFDC Educators: Fay Gilson, Sandra Luvis ( HFDC Manager) and Michelle McGovern.

The inception of Verde Bamboo in 2010 challenged stereotypes by being a < ooring business owned and operated by women in a traditionally male industry and offering a city style concept showroom showcasing over 160 m² of the family owned trademark Mosowood< bamboo < ooring, decking and solid bamboo furniture boards.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? Our most recent community project really encapsulates the reasons why we choose to specialise in bamboo and hardwood < ooring. In November 2012, we

participated in a fundraising event hosted by Bling for the Girls for the Hastings Women< s Refuge, which was in desperate need of new < oor coverings.

After consulting with Refuge Manager Gemma Morley, we agreed on a commercial grade bamboo < ooring, which was Distressed Huon in the Mosowood< range. The amazing fundraising event raised an incredible amount of money, which allowed the < ooring to be replaced.

We completed this incredible transformation last month, and it is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding projects we have been fortunate enough to be involved in. Gemma said after the work was < nished: < It is amazing the difference it has made < every time I look at the < ooring, I smile < it just makes me so happy!<

What is the unique selling point in your with Hastings Family Day Care. business? Hastings Family Day Care is unlike Members of the public will be able to join our Play any other form of education and care service Session, operating in a fantastic facility that is child offered to children and families. The service offers and family friendly and suitable for all ages and personalised education and care to children 6 abilities of children. weeks - 12 years by trained Educators in a small Tell us about any recent awards or milestones group, home based environment. Hastings FDC you are celebrating. With the introduction of the Educators tailor care to suit the individual child new Education and Care Services National and family. In addition to offering Regulations in 2012, also came a full-time, part-time, and before new Assessment and Rating and after school care, HFDC is process. HFDC is very proud e able to offer care outside of A new and mor of the success achieved, mainstream hours, allowing streamlined receiving a rating of r new for shift and weekend setup process fo Exceeding the National ; us g workers and families educators joinin e Quality Standard in all th r requiring respite to access this will allow fo erating seven standards. HFDC op be the care they require. educators to e or m g was also delighted to be in el fe e ic their serv How does your business orter sh a in a part of the success of d an ed equipp support local initiatives ” the CBA Business Awards in e. m ra ef tim and charities? Hastings 2012 and joined St Joseph< s Family Day Care participates in Family Services in winning the and supports many local events and Disability Friendly category. This year charities. As a local service, it is imperative we join St Agnes Parish in achieving 100 we support other local services ... Relay for years of education in Port Macquarie.

Life, Mums and Bubs Market, NAIDOC, Natural What is your businesses competitive edge? and Holistic Market, Wauchope and Hinterland HFDC has been in operation for the past 35 years Community Evening, Yon Yi Barragay Eco Cultural and is the only locally based Family Day Care Education Program, and the local Career Markets, Service operating across Port Macquarie Hastings. just to name a few.

Being local means staff are able to meet face What are you offering that is new for to face with families and regularly interact with customers in 2013? To build on the success of children in care. We are on hand to work beside HFDC in 2012, we will be introducing a few new educators to establish and develop their business exciting bene< ts to perspective FDC Educators, and to respond promptly in the case of any families and the general public. emergency or unforseen situation that may arise.

A new and more streamlined setup process for Hastings Family Day Care attributes its success to new educators joining us; this will allow for the maintaining great customer service, a network educators to be operating their service more of dedicated educators, and a team of quali< ed equipped and in a shorter timeframe. experienced staff. Hastings Family Day Care is committed to continue to provide a valuable A renewed < exible enrolment process for families service to families of the Hastings. designed to provide a variety of ways to engage

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Essential Funds for Local Women in Need Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge provides crisis accommodation and support to women and their children, or single women, escaping domestic violence or in crisis. Chrissy Jones found out more from facility manager Gemma Morley ...

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hat does the refuge offer?

We offer a range of services and supports, including crisis and transitional accommodation, domestic violence support rooms in the local Police Station, outreach services to women and children in their own homes, specialist child support services and referral and advocacy. We also offer support groups for women and children and Men’s Behaviour Change Programs.

When and why was the refuge founded?

The Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge Inc. was founded in 1980 by a group of local women committed to providing a safe place for for women and children affected by domestic and family violence or homelessness in the Port Macquarie Hastings community. We provide opportunities for women and children to find safety and to grow through their own life choices.

What are some of your organisational goals?

The Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge aims to provide non-institutionalised supported accommodation for women and their children, with access to quality case management which recognises diversity. We contribute to the strategic whole of government response to domestic and family violence through provision of services promoting co-ordinated access to judicial intervention and evidence based program delivery. We are operated by women for women and children.

What are some outcomes from your initiatives that you are proud of?

The significant growth in both the professionalism of the services that we offer and a more highly skilled workforce, which has resulted in improvements in outcomes for the 58 greater port macquarie focus.

women and children accessing our services, has seen outcomes of 59% of all women exiting the refuge breaking the cycle through the attainment of alternative accommodation; this is a real credit to our staff.

Our Outreach Centre, Liberty Cottage found at 155 Gordon Street, continues to provide women in our community with a ‘shopfront’ to provide access to support services pertaining to domestic and family violence. We have built a network of strong partnerships and linkages within the Port Macquarie-Hastings through the provision of a wide range of services to the community.

You receive a fantastic amount of support from the local community, especially from the fundraising efforts of two local women’s groups. Tell us more ...

Both the Bling for the Girls and the Hastings Business Women’s Network groups have raised funds for the refuge with a number of activities. Their financial support has proved a vital resource for our facility and has resulted in many improvements to the refuge. These women are truly inspiring when it comes to fundraising and support for other women in their community.

With the generous support of local businesses, the Bling for the Girls Committee, made up of local women who are dedicated to raising funds for local women in need, has already donated over $65,000 in support of local women’s issues. In November 2012, over 100 local women came together for the fourth Bling for the Girls cocktail party and raised $23,000 for the Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge and Port Macquarie’s Sexual Assault service.

The theme for the 2012 Fundraiser was ‘White Party – Hampton’s Style’ and was held poolside at the house of one of the committee members. Hand-made white bunting, stunning

floral displays by local florist Caroline Williams refuge kitchen in the near future. and white marquees helped set the stunning Friday March 8 is the date to mark in your scene. calendar to attend the event and show your The organising committee was overwhelmed support. They will be holding a fundraiser in with the generosity of guests who purchased conjunction with Member for Port Macquarie, raffle tickets and bid with zeal on auction items Leslie Williams MP, celebrating International – all donated by local businesses.

Women’s Day 2013, with funds raised going Monies raised have helped the refuge to the refurbishment of the kitchen at the greatly; two major projects have been Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge. completed, including a major The cocktail evening will feature renovation of our bathroom, special guest speakers Wendy and the installation of new Machin and Kylie Dowse, al bamboo flooring supplied ci along with MC Karen an fin r Thei ed a

by Verde Bamboo in Pini. A number of support has prov lity r our faci our offices, residence vital resource fo Hastings Heroines who in many and has resulted . ge bedrooms, common have made a lasting to the refu improvements ly tru living areas, kids’ impression on our e Thse women ar it comes to playroom and the community will be inspiring when support fundraising and kitchen and dining honoured at the event. r in thei for other women rooms.

Tickets include a community.”

After a comprehensive complimentary drink on consultation with Verde arrival, light dinner and Bamboo, it was decided the entertainment. More than $3,000 refuge would benefit greatly from worth of prizes are up for grabs a natural based, distressed semi-gloss through a raffle and other fundraising bamboo flooring called Distressed Huon activities. Commencing at 6pm, with a cost in the Mosowood™ range. The natural colour of just $40 per head, all are invited and creates light and space in the dark hallways, welcome to attend this fundraiser at the CWA bedrooms and offices, whilst transforming the Waterfront Function Room, 11 Horton Street, common living areas into warm and inviting Port Macquarie. spaces for families to share.

After 23 years of service to thousands of The additional distress and black flick feature women and children in the Port Macquarie in the board accommodates the high traffic Hastings community, the Hastings Women and flow of residents and staff, whilst reducing Children’s Refuge residential facility has been maintenance due to character and movement in desperate need of these fresh facilities and in the design, making it an ideal choice for us. is very grateful to the Bling for Girls group and The Hastings Business Women’s Network the Hastings Business Women’s Network for has, for many years, provided financial their invaluable contributions to the refuge. assistance and gifts for the women supported Their support ensures we are able to offer a through the Refuge at Christmas time and for nurturing, safe environment for those requiring Mother’s Day. In another fantastic community support. effort, they are fundraising to replace our Thank you Gemma.

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Hastings Business Womens Network

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hat is the unique selling

and services, in particular the Hastings Women

of our members, culminating in a Professional

Our website provides a great platform for our

point in your organisa-

and Children’s Refuge, while many of our

Development Award at the end of the year.

members to interact, while our newsletter

tion? The Hastings Business

members are active volunteers and sponsors of

Planning is already underway for our End of

continues to help members spread their news.

Womens Network is all about

a variety of charitable groups.

Year Conference and Members Expo, which

We’ve also established a Facebook page,

growing tall poppies.

What are you offering that is new for

promises to be a major event on the local busi-

LinkedIn Group and Twitter profile, so there

We’re a group of more than 180 local busi-

members in 2013? For the HBWN and our

ness calendar.

are more ways than ever for our members to

ness women who come together to exchange

members, it’s onwards and upwards for 2013.

We’ll be reaching out to more business women

ideas, information and inspiration as we all

We recently launched our new Events Calen-

in the Camden Haven and Wauchope regions,

Tell us about any recent awards or mile-

dar, which features a variety of networking

and we’re building relationships with other

stones you are celebrating? Our own HBWN

Our network has a proud 14 year history of

formats and times, as well as an expanded

women’s business groups along the coast to

Awards were held in November last year,

empowering, engaging, encouraging and

series of professional development workshops,

increase our networking footprint.

acknowledging five local business women for

educating local women in business.

including some exciting partnerships with

And, of course, we’ll be continuing to provide

their outstanding and inspirational success,

How does your organisation support local

Charles Sturt University and Leadership Man-

a whole host of benefits for members such as

and another three were honoured with the

initiatives or charities? One of the core val-

agement Australia.

the opportunity to promote their businesses,

HBWN Tall Poppy Life Membership Award.

ues of the HBWN is to make a meaningful con-

We are also running our inaugural Professional

to share professional knowledge with other

We’ll be expanding the Awards program this

tribution to the local economy and community.

Development Points Program, which is aimed

experienced business women and to seek sup-

year to make the 2013 event even bigger and

We actively support a range of organisations

at recognising the growth and development

port and social interaction.

better.

strive for success in business.

stay in touch.

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“

We’re known for developing professional branding material without burdening the business owner.”

Kylie Morris.

Owner Hot Graphics

Sue Faulkner.

Director - Hot Women

Kerrie Whiteman.

The Pack Leader

What is the unique selling point in your business? Hot Graphics is a leading creative studio producing attention grabbing graphic design and high quality websites.

Hot Women is 3 years old! Time to celebrate! Hot Women

What's your businesses competitive edge? The Pack

is all about promoting business women using our unique

Leader’s a new business in town. I am able to come to your

approach. Our combination of the website, e-newsletters

home, the beach or a park to work together to modify your

We deliver website solutions that work, are easy to understand and user-friendly. We’re known for developing professional branding material without burdening the business owner.

and fun interactive events promote business to other

dog’s behaviour. Problem dogs – no problem!

women – a powerful and valuable audience.

I offer attractive rates and like to work with a customer to

Who is a Hot Woman – women with a positive self-image,

deliver quality training for as long as you need.

We’re passionate about helping start-ups and small businesses and flexible enough to accommodate their time and budget pressures.

women who want to be active not passive, women who grab an

What are you offering customers in 2013? I offer one-

opportunity when it comes along and those who keep on learn-

on-one sessions with owners and their dog, families or any

ing about themselves and their industry.

family member who wants to be trained in handling their

Featured on our website are stories for women by women.

dog. The sessions with clients and their dogs are based

What is Hot Graphics’ focus for 2013? Our unique Website Starter Packs remain a hot ticket item with good reason – they are affordable, professional, logical, quick and best of all, easy for the client!

Developed with sole trader and micro businesses in mind, these website development and training packs give clients the power to update the content and appearance of their sites any time for free.

And for those who require more functions, we deliver clever custom websites as well. Combine this with our popular graphic design services, and we can help any business 'get the chilli factor'.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? As Vice President of the Hastings Business Women’s Network and a supporter of ride4acure and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service, I know how important it is to give back to our community.

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on dog psychology, pack mentality and giving clients the

We feature local business women who provide an insight into the experiences they face juggling day-to-day activities with their business, what motivates them and keeps them going.

knowledge and tools to take control of their dog and any

Hot Women events are held throughout the year, and each

Tell us about any recent qualifications you have gained

event is different and specifically tailored for the featured busi-

... I am fully trained with a Certificate III in Dog Training,

ness promoting their products. We have great fun and a glass

Obedience and Behaviour through the NDTF (Australian Dog

of bubbles in a relaxed atmosphere while learning about new

Training Federation) which was held at Pet Resorts Australia

products and services. All women are encouraged to come along

at Dural in Sydney.

to an event, see what we are about, and enjoy some time out or

I’ve had both my dogs from 8 weeks old. They are two

talk with us about being an event sponsor. Go to

kelpies; Scout - the eldest one is 17 years and her niece,

www.hotwomenguide.com.au or call Sue on 0411 100 814.

Lainie, who is only a mere 10 years old.

behaviour that is not acceptable. This is based on rules, boundaries and limitations, along with exercise, discipline and giving your dog a ‘job’ or something to do – a purpose in life.

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The Team.

Greater Port Macquarie Harcourts

What is the unique selling point for Harcourts? Our company has 2 office locations in Port Macquarie and Wauchope and services Kempsey in the North to Camden Haven in the South and all areas in between.

Our agents can help you achieve your desired result in both Property Management and Sales. We tailor our service and fees to suit our landlord’s requirements and were the first in the local area to offer an all-inclusive fee package for our Property Management services.

ing, community or school groups to use for

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? Harcourts has been operating for over 25 years and has always supported local sporting clubs and organisations, through sponsorship and donations for special fundraising events. We also have a marquee that is available for all sport-

so it's a big birthday year for the franchise.

events, free of charge.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? We had commenced 24 hour online access for landlords information at the end of 2012 and will be furthering this facility in 2013 to incorporate tenant access.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? Harcourts International celebrates 125 years in 2013, Our office has consistently achieved both Property Management and Sales awards at state level over the last 3 years, including Property Manager of the quarter, New Business Development, Customer Service and general Excellence Awards.

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Jan Clogg.

Credence Business Solutions

Credence has a new image. What prompted the rebranding? Credence Business Solutions has a new name, new look, and a new focus on empowering small businesses to take control of their finances – with customised, professional bookkeeping services.

What is the relevance of the cloud logo?

The bookkeeping industry is undergoing a major change, with cloud (online) based systems revolutionising the way we work and providing real time access to information. We harness the latest technology to implement the most efficient bookkeeping tools for our clients, either onsite or online.

Why does Credence Business Solutions stand out against competitors? Credence offers the full range of traditional bookkeeping services, such as BAS lodgement and payroll, but we also give our clients valuable insight into their finances,

with customised information at their fingertips.

We contribute to their success by streamlining operations, increasing profitability, ensuring compliance and providing easy access to accurate financial information to guide business decisions.

We specialise in ‘rescue work’ and advise startup businesses, those struggling with growth or perhaps looking to downsize.

Why should people choose a qualified bookkeeper? As a qualified Certified Practicing Accountant and Registered BAS Agent, my aim is to bridge the gap between what clients want and accountants need.

Credence Business Solutions has invested in industry leading systems to ensure the consistency, reliability and quality of our service.

We offer best practice bookkeeping through the ‘Pure Bookkeeping System’ and are Certified Advisors for both MYOB and Xero.

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Susan Judd.

Principal Consultant/Owner - HR Culture

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Marilyn Breen.

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Business Consultant - ETC

What makes HR Culture unique is our commitment to deliver measurable achievements and outcomes to our clients, which directly impact their bottom-line, and provide a real return on investment. We do this by finding out up-front what the goals are of each business, measure what is going on through a business benchmarking process, and build practical action steps for businesses to implement to provide their specific results - delivering a hands-on working plan.

As a Business Consultant with Enterprise & Training Company

In 2013 we plan to provide local businesses with tools and strategies to minimise their business headaches and provide peace of mind, so that they can focus on what is impor-

Through my experience, I can identify with issues faced by

tant in the business, working on their goals and strategy.

a benchmarking program to measure business performance

We are motivated by meeting local businesses, hearing all about them, and being provided with the opportunity to have a real impact on their results. We are inspired by what we stand for, which includes enjoying what we do and seeing others enjoy what they do, building great relationships with our clients, delivering excellent quality services that deliver results, having and demonstrating work/life balance, and really making a difference.

against industry standards; diagnostic tools to help identify

The most rewarding part of our work is seeing the transformation of others – from stressed, tired, frustrated, worried, and many more of these feelings, to relaxed, happy, focused (or refocused), and having a sense of achievement and pride in what they have transformed into as an individual or as a team.

Ltd (ETC), my role is to provide information to help local business owners start a business, or existing businesses become more competitive and accelerate growth.

Based in Port Macquarie, I am part of a team of local business advisors, all of whom are experienced and successful small business owners. small business owners and can provide a range of tools and resources that are necessary in today’s market. These include:

opportunities for improvement; and a wide range of resources designed to support small business owners.

ETC was recently awarded Best Regional Business Enterprise Centre in Australia and won the contract to deliver the NSW government funded 'Small Biz Connect' program between Coffs Harbour and Taree.

Under this program, local businesses can access up to six hours of support at no cost to them.

To make an appointment with a business advisor, contact Fay Fletcher at ETC on (02) 6584 2810 or visit etcltd.com.au.

“All I needed was a bit of advice to grow my business! ” Through Small Biz Connect, ETC has assisted over 350 businesses in the last 6 months.

Subsidised by the NSW government, you can access up to 6 hours of personalised business support at any time and no cost to you!

Connect now with ETC’s experienced business advisors. To make an appointment, call 6584 2810 or visit etcltd.com.au

ic Em Adv ploym ent | Training | Business

etcltd.com.au

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twitter.com/etc_ltd

Alex Glen Holmes.

Licensed Real Estate Agent- Elders

Whats with the boxing gloves? Tough market; tough agent! I'm determined and ready to get the job done and to do what it takes to help my vendors get their property sold for the best market price. I'm also very versatile with the properties that I promote. From luxury waterfront properties to farms and acreages, changing from heels to welly boots!

How does your business support local initiatives? I am very involved with the Chamber of Commerce helping to lobby Council and government to get the best deals for local business, while working together to promote the Hastings area and encourage business to grow and therefore employ more locals. We also work together to make Port Macquarie a better place to live. I am involved with events that bring the whole community together, such as the Christmas parade, concert and lighting of the tree, Business Awards and Tastings on Hastings.

Recent awards or milestones? I was recently announced Hastings Business Women’s Network Employee of the Year last November. This award was voted on by my peers, other local business women, and I was very honoured to receive it.

What is your competitive edge? I believe in treating my customers how I would want to be treated. That means great communication at all times with honest feedback (not just telling them what you think they want to hear) and explaining every step of the process.

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Francessca O’Donnell, Vick Compton

Natasha Schurink. TravelManagers Australia

Debbie Gampe, Sandra Magann Seachange

What is the unique selling point in your business?

What is the unique selling point in your business? I am a

The mosaic art works we create are unique, original and

mobile agent, so I consult with my clients at a time and place

striking.

that is convenient to them. At their home, office, by phone/

We offer a free design service to those who want a

email or at their favourite coffee shop.

What is the unique selling point in your business? We specialise in delivering smart solutions explained in simple, easy to understand terms. Despite our youthful appearance we have 50 years’ combined experience in accounting and financial planning. Sandra provides accounting and tax advice, and Debbie specialises in financial planning and personal insurance.

The Team.

Out There Design and Mosaic

special piece, from a small mirror or pot, to large outdoor murals, water features and business signage.

Our range is constantly changing and evolving as we learn

I often consult outside normal business hours, allowing more uninterrupted time to be focused on the

What are you offering that is new for customers in

intricate details of their travel plans.

I deliver a high standard of service and support, from the time of the first quote and until you arrive home

2013?

from abroad.

new techniques and methods, and we are never afraid to try something new to suit a client’s special requests.

Along with some smaller mosaic pieces, we have created a new range of jewellery and hanging tea light holders, to

How does your business support local initiatives

add to our ever changing range of mosaics, paintings and

or charities? This year I am sponsoring a driver again in

etchings. We are also continuing the weekend mosaic

the Trek4Kids, raising money for the Starlight Children’s

workshops that run about once a month.

Foundation, aimed at brightening the lives of seriously ill

What's your business’ competitive edge?

children and their families. It is a wonderful cause that is very

The art and mosaics we produce are unique, with no

grateful for all donations, big and small.

two pieces ever the same. Our passion for what we do is

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are

evident in not only what we make, but the commitment

celebrating? I am about to celebrate two years representing

to creating high quality, new pieces.

Port Macquarie and the Mid North Coast for TravelManagers

Mosaic has a very long artistic tradition. They never fade

Australia. It has been a very busy time and with the constant

or date, so the colourful and original designs make them

growth my business has experienced in the last 12 months,

collectable artworks in their own right.

there is no sign of slowing down!

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? Between us we hold committee positions with the Hastings Business Womens Network, the Mid North Coast Chapter of the Financial Planning Association and the Zonta Club of Port Macquarie Inc. What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013?

We are excited about the technology now available to small business owners that really simplifies the accounting process and takes the hassle out of managing business finances. Now is the perfect time to talk to us about Xero - the world’s easiest accounting system.

The other major focus this year will be helping people avoid paying high fees on their superannuation and making sure they have affordable insurance to protect their families.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? The Financial Planning Association of Australia recently presented a Distinguished Service Award to Debbie for her contribution to the financial planning profession over the past 8 years.

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Smart Advice | Explained Simply greater port macquarie focus 63

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INTERNATIONAL WOMEN N’S S DAY

HASTINGS HEROINES 8 MARCH 2013

"EMPOWERING WOMEN"

Cocktail Party DATE Friday - 08/03/2013 TIME 6.00pm – 9.00pm COST $40 WHERE CWA Waterfront Function Room 11 Horton Street, Port Macquarie (Town Green) Tickets include a complimentary drink on arrival, light dinner, guest speakers and entertainment. More than $3000 worth of prizes are up for grabs through a raffle and other fundraising activities. Tickets for the night are available for purchase at www.hbwn.com.au/events.php.

All Proceeds from the event will go towards the refurbishment of the Hastings Women and Children’s Refuge

Pix Jonasson. Owner/Founder Success Dynamics Group

Complete Health & Wellness Centre.

What is the unique selling point in your business?

Success Dynamics Group is the only ‘One-Stop-Shop’

Welcome to Complete Health & Wellness Centre, where you will find: Naturopathic Medicine, Nutrition and Lifestyle Advice, a full herbal dispensary, Remedial Massage and Natural Organic Beauty Treatments. We are dedicated to providing you with first class service along your path to good health, in a peaceful, warm and inviting atmosphere. All of our services are united by a belief in whole-body health.

for speaker and event services in the Port MacquarieHastings region.

“We identify the needs of our clients to design a training or event that is the perfect message to market match with their target audience. We work with speakers from around the world. When it comes to our clients, we strategically arrange for select speakers that bring value to both our client and their audience.”

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? We just launched a brand new service to design websites, as well as a training program, all for speakers, authors, trainers and coaches. Visit us at: MySpeakerSite.com and OnTargetMarketingSystem.com.

What's your business’ competitive edge? Success Dynamics Group is the #1 resource for Speaker Services and Event Management. Our database and network includes high-profile national and international speakers and clients.

We make your event or speaking business both a Success and Dynamic!

MAJOR PRIZE Ultimate Getaway Package Spicers Peak Lodge Queensland 2ND PRIZE Bed n Breakfast Package The Observatory Port Macquarie

Providing Consulting Coaching and Training Services for...

Mob: 0418 211 738 www.S w www.SuccessDynamicsGroup.com

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Our Naturopaths, Kate Williams and Melanie Robinson, use a range of tools to access the overall health and wellbeing of each individual, including – Iridology using a digital iris camera, live blood cell analysis, and urine, saliva, hormone, allergy and food intolerance testing.

Sharne Teudt and Leigh Stevens are fully qualified Remedial Massage Therapists with over 20 years' combined experience. They offer Remedial, Sport, Therapeutic, Hot Stone and Pregnancy Massage, Lymphatic/Oedema Therapy, Ear Candling and Aromatherapy.

If you are seeking a natural Beauty Treatment, Sharon Wilson will indulge you – from the simplest to the most indulgent nourishing facial, shellac manicures and pedicures.

We also run regular workshops: Melanie:'Vital Child, & Nutrition for Vitality'. Kate: 'Raw Food Preparation'. Leigh: 'Creating your Sacred Balance'.

Our clinic also has regular monthly movie nights. For more information on our upcoming events, please email: chawc@hotmail.com.au with your name and email address.

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“

I ask my clients to primarily consider just three important qualities: individual agent; willingness to communicate with you; and ability to get your message to buyers.”

Evelina Kemp & Leah Shultz. Glasshouse Hair and Beauty Evelina: Hasn't time flown since I handed over the reigns and Leah became the new owner of Glasshouse Hair and Beauty!

Things have now settled down for me in my position as a rent-a-chair, and I am enjoying having the luxury of more free time to relax and study. Still being strongly involved with Glasshouse Hair & Beauty, I have provided support and services for many fundraisers and charity events such as the Salvation Army / Rydges Ladies in Red. It's great to be able to be a part of these events, and I feel blessed to work with women like Kate Wood Foye from Rydges, who is always an absolute pleasure.

I urge any of my current clients, or new clients who have been referred to me, to please contact my mobile on 0404 277 830 if the girls at the salon have any trouble finding a spot in my calendar.

Leah: I have enjoyed meeting many new clients that have come through the Glasshouse Hair and Beauty doors since I started last year. According to our customer satisfaction survey, they feel that our level of customer service and professionalism is still of the highest standards as always. I love the fast paced enviroment of heading the salon, using great product ranges such as NAK, and am looking forward to continuing the high level of customer service and the quality experience that we provide for our clients at Glasshouse Hair and Beauty.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? Evelina’s fabulous apprentice Mikala is now fully qualified and does great work! We also welcome Leah’s fabulous new apprentice Catherine, who is a pleasure to have in the shop.

Sue Jogever.

Licensed Real Estate Agent - McGrath Real Estate

Licensed Real Estate Agent, Sue Jogever, has an infectious enthusiasm and it captures anyone and everyone with whom she interacts. In talking with Sue, it’s hard to ignore the positive stream of professional energy which surrounds her, and it's equally obvious that she is totally committed to the highly successful McGrath network. ue works in affiliation with McGrath Estate Agents, Port Macquarie, enjoying the support of a great team and the exclusive selling benefits arising from the brand’s unique marketing facilities.

S

How does your business support local initiatives and charities? I am an active member of Rotary Sunrise, frequently volunteering for a variety of community services. I participate in the Red Shield Door Knock campaign and volunteer at St Thomas' Anglican Church weekly soup kitchen. I am also serving as a committee member for the inaugural 'Luminosity Youth Summit', where McGrath CEO, John McGrath, will shortly be a keynote speaker.

Sue, what is the unique selling point in your personal business? I honestly believe that I provide my clients with an exceptional real estate experience. Whilst it’s pretty obvious that when selecting an agent to sell What are you offering that is new their home locals have a great number of for customers in 2013? I offer my choices, I ask my clients to primarily clients a firm promise that consider just three important my business values will qualities: individual remain unchanged. My agent; willingness to r Finally, no othe commitment to both communicate with you; network in real r fe buyers and sellers is of and ability to get your to le ab is estate e iv us cl that I will continue to message to buyers. ex ’s th ra McG rategies . st g tin uphold the highest ke ar m Firstly, as a licensed d reaches an br e standards of ethics, Th agent working rs , e potential buye or m reliable communication through a recognised mply sooner, and is si and professional service, and successful network, the best .” providing them with an I feel that passion and efficient and stress-free real energy are my significant estate experience and great points-of-difference. I have the results. experience and drive to achieve great

“

results and as past clients will agree, I never lose focus on that objective.

Then, communication is so important. Real estate is very much a people business, so I carefully manage the number of homes that I’m selling at any one time. This enables me to dedicate my time specifically to stay closely in touch with all vendors and potential buyers. In my view, selling is all about quality, not quantity.

Finally, no other network in real estate is able to offer McGrath’s exclusive marketing strategies. The brand reaches more potential buyers, sooner, and is simply the best. That’s why I have chosen to be associated with it, for many years. McGrath assists me to achieve premium results for my clients.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? In terms of formal awards, I was honoured to become a finalist for 'Employee of the Year Award', a competition conducted by Port News.

Of course, McGrath Port Macquarie has achieved recognition, winning the 'Commonwealth Bank - Greater Port Macquarie Business Awards' in the real estate category for the last three consecutive years – a wonderful achievement for an excellent team.

My most treasured rewards, however, are my warm and positive relationships with both past and present clients. There are few things to match sincere friendships and great 'word of mouth' from happy clients.

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Wendy Machin NRMA President Wendy Machin will be the Key Note Speaker at the HBWN International Womens Day Event being held on March 8 at a special fundraiser for the Hastings Women and Children's Refuge.

here do you source your inspiration from?

I would have to say, that is probably something you work out as you get older. I think it would probably be my family ... as well as growing up in a small community like Wingham. You learn to pitch in and be very much a part of a small community, and that's the great thing about a lot of our small towns in Australia and on the Mid North Coast, where I grew up.

You know with people, you share their ups and their downs ... We had a bit of bad luck in our family, as my older sister was badly brain damaged when she was born, so that was obviously a blow for our family. They spent the rest of their lives working for facilities for the disabled. I suppose watching them do that – the way they got in and raised money, ran fetes and gave their own time and money, along with a whole lot of other families who also had children with disabilities, or even people who didn't but lived in our community and just wanted to help ... They did some amazing things.

Bad luck can happen to anybody. A lot of good came from that experience, and I think that was inspirational to me in terms of just that you make your own luck; you get in, you have a go. You can sit around and feel sad and hard done by, or you can pitch in and try and make the world a better place.

When in comes to providing inspiration and empowerment to others, what do you think is actually the best approach?

Well, I think not to let people put limits on you. I guess that's the other thing I was fortunate to have ... my father's family were saw millers, and he and my mother came from small country towns. My father's family took the view that the kids should go to university – even if they came back home, they should go out and get a bit of new experience and a higher education.

This was a good thing; there were never any limits placed on me, and there was never that notion that there are some jobs for girls and

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other jobs for boys, or that there are certain things that girls shouldn't do.

I remember getting very cross at my grandmother when I was quite young, who said I should be a physiotherapist because "that's a nice job for girls". And it wasn't that I was cross at the physiotherapy; it was that she thought there were jobs that only girls could do.

Make sure you don't except limits; people will try and put limits on you. Don't make a song and dance about it; just reply with, "Well, I don't accept that". Get in and give it a go.

Equip yourself: it doesn't matter what field you are in, you can always upgrade your skills through learning that is appropriate and available. Be self sufficient, and be prepared to take risks – not life threatening risks, but remember: it's not a bad thing to fail. You learn a lot more from your mistakes than from your successes. Women should be prepared to have a go.

In terms of the workplace, how do you foster the growth of strong female role models?

You know, that's really interesting. I have looked at it in politics and through the lens of the business world, and I think it's a cultural thing in many work places; it's a leadership thing.

There is a good culture at the NRMA. The CEO is a man who is very comfortable working with women, as 6 of his Directors are women and not all of them work full-time; they work flexible hours, because they are mothers as well, and they still deliver.

And the family thing is just as important for a lot of men as it is for women, so I think having a culture that acknowledges the importance of families and is prepared to trust people to get the job done, even if they might work different hours, is important.

Even for women in senior roles, it is important to take time to foster the young girls, have a chat with them, be happy to act as mentors or role models and look for opportunities, and learn to give good feedback.

What does International Women's Day

symbolise for you?

That's an interesting question. It celebrates past achievements, but it's also a time to acknowledge that there still are a lot challenges facing young women – some are still the same, some might be different now.

We certainly don't have the sort of gender equality that a lot of young women, such as my daughter, would like. I have a daughter who has just started university; she is 18½ – an outspoken, intelligent, young feminist, and she gets outraged at certain things.

I think there are a lot of things still to be achieved. While women like me have had some great opportunities, it's still hard juggling a family, and I don't know that there are any easy answers to that. You can't have a career like being a Minster or a leader in Government and have a lot of time at home; the public expects to see you and that's the role ... that's what you signed on for. So, you have to work out how to manage that.

Similarly in business, it's pretty tough. If they are going to put you into a senior role and pay you, they expect a certain output. A lot of workplaces are prepared to be flexible, but they still expect a certain output from the big dollars they pay – and that's not a terrible outlook.

So I think International Women's Day is a time to look at the progress you have made in regards to women's representation.

What message are you hoping to share on

the night when you attend the function?

I actually thought I would look at other women; I know I'm the guest speaker, but people don't necessarily want to hear about me. I think it's interesting to look at other achievers in our community across all sorts of age spectrums and careers.

We now have a woman working as a mechanic in one of our workshops in the NRMA in Canberra; and she is the first to work in one of our workshops. I think it's great to acknowledge these women and what they are doing. We have some fabulous women playing rugby, and they are one of the best teams in the world. So I was thinking of having a look at some fantastic role models and the unsung heroes.

You've had quite a few speaking engagements back on the Mid North Coast area of late. Do you often get the time to visit people while you're here, and do you miss the country when you're away?

No and yes!

I don't have a lot of time to catch up with friends and family, and most definitely I miss the country. We've had a farm just out of Wingham for a long time. We sold my parents' family home after they died, but we have our own place there – we just love being there.

I love being on the North Coast; there is just something about country people ... I know I'm a bit biased, but they are just really nice people.

Thanks Wendy.

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Local business takes the guesswork out of investment. Three experienced local business women have united to provide a unique and personalised solution to investing - financial planning, home loans and property management services under one roof.”

Carol Round.

Christine Zimmerman.

Terri Tipper.

Carol Round heads up All Round Financial Services, offering financial planning services including superannuation, wealth creation, retirement planning, estate planning and money management.

Christine Zimmerman leads the All Round Home Loans team, providing home loan services and financing for residential and commercial investment properties.

Terri Tipper is an experienced property management specialist and leads the newest arm of the business - All Round Property Services.

"There is a dizzying array of home loan providers and options available; how do people know where to start?"

"One of the fears around property investing is handing over the keys to one of your largest assets to someone else. How can a property manager help?"

"Many financial planners avoid property investment. You’ve not only embraced it, but have built a whole new business model to service those interested in investing in property. Why?" Carol: “It’s true that financial planners have traditionally focused on the share market, but I also see real value in property investment. I’m a property investor myself. Property is an investment option that shouldn’t be overlooked, particularly when it’s supported by the right loan structure and property management services.

I believe it’s important to align your money decisions with what’s important in your life, so I spend time with clients to understand their goals and their values. My aim is to provide clients with confidence and control over all aspects of their financial matters.”

Christine: “It can be overwhelming when it comes to securing a home loan, either for a first home or an investment.

With my background in financial planning, I can help interpret the complexities of lending products, policies and procedures, and ensure clients secure the right mortgage for their personal situation.

"By providing the most appropriate loan structure, I also help clients achieve their broader financial goals through property investment and investing in the share market.”

Christine’s wealth of experience, warmth and sheer determination can have a powerful impact on your wealth accumulation.

Terri: “After working in the Port Macquarie-Hastings rental real estate industry for almost two decades, I understand that property investment is one of the most important financial decisions people will ever make. That’s why I manage my clients' properties as though they are my own.

I focus exclusively on property management and work hard to maximise rental returns and provide a greater sense of security."

Terri is dedicated to providing the highest levels of service across the entire process, so you know your property is in safe hands - from finding the best tenants to managing the rental payments to arranging fast, quality repairs.

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Percival Property What is the unique selling point of your business? Percival Property uniquely combines the enormous benefits of decades of experience in the real estate industry, together with the unbridled passion and enthusiasm of a brand new business.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? We have twenty years of history in business in Port Macquarie, and in that time we have invested enormously into local sporting teams from rugby union to triathlon and many others, supported cancer charities and undertaken a large number of employment initiatives. We are particularly proud of the investment we have made in furthering the careers of our staff members, past and present, over the years by providing for ongoing education, including licensing courses and other training.

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Robyn Hodgson What is your business' competitive edge?

Percival Property offers many advantages to our clients, but our greatest competitive edge is the talent and dedication of the people working in our team. We have enormous confidence in the ability of our experienced team, and we know our clients get the benefit. There are many important procedures we have in place including ensuring that our properties are inspected EVERY 3 months by our dedicated inspections officer – Rick Owen, whose sole focus is to provide our owners with a full written report (and photos), checking for any safety and maintenance issues and that standards are being maintained. We have open lines of communication and the ability, expertise and knowledge to find the best solutions for our owners. At the end of the day it comes back to our decades of experience and our passion for providing the best in service that set us apart.

Curves Port Macquarie

What is the unique selling point in your business? Women only, providing one-stop affordable exercise and nutritional information.

majority of staff being here from the start.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? Curves is one of Cancer Council’s major partners; our annual Service Fee Promotion supports this cause, where we donate funds to the Cancer Council.

workout exercises every major muscle group

Sponsors of the Heart Foundation’s ‘Go Red for Women’ campaign. Curves aims to raise vital funds through donations to help improve women's heart health and wellbeing.

your healthy regime.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? Curves Port Macquarie is acknowledged within our own industry as being a successfully experienced Curves club, helping women meet their goals in a comfortable, friendly environment. Our locally owned club has just past our 7-year milestone, with the

What's your business' competitive edge?

Women Only. Time Poor? 30 mins Curves and burns up to 2,000 kilojoules through a proven program of strength training, cardio and stretching. Curves also encourages at least 30 minutes of walking each day to complement Weight loss programme – complete solution with both fitness and nutrition plans designed to fit every woman's individual needs.

Curves smart – personalised coaching system gives you moment-by-moment feedback.

Success stories – Curves has helped millions of women of all shapes and sizes take charge of their health and combat the effects of ageing and disease.

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Laing + Simmons .

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Naomi Hunter, Sherryl Robinson & Kristin Parker

raditionally, real estate has been a male dominated industry. How do female agents offer a unique selling point?

Sherryl: Women have a great ability in terms of intuition and empathy. Our experience as mothers and in nurturing families enables us to foster and maintain long term relationships. When I first started in real estate 22 years ago, the clients I had then are now the mums and dads of clients I have today. It’s an honour to make these lasting connections with families.

Kristin: Women play a huge role in a family’s housing decisions, and women agents can focus and respond to how those decisions are made. Women are considerate towards people’s circumstances; we can handle situations delicately and provide sound advice based on each individual’s own needs.

Naomi: Women are compassionate, with a different type of life experience. We understand the balance of working hard in a career, and we’re also familiar with the demands of raising a family. Women have a great eye for detail and the benefit of our perspective extends to practical information such as schooling options, proximity to good shopping centres and even the suitability of the floor plan of a property for each client’s particular circumstances.

Are there local initiatives, charities or community groups you support?

Sherryl: As an office, we endeavour to support as many local charities and initiatives

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as we can. Personally, I’ve been involved with Rotary for years and I’m also proud to sit on the board of a disability services provider, which I became involved with through a client. There are some incredible people working in this area, and it is humbling to see first hand the good job they do.

In what ways does your business have a competitive edge?

Naomi: We believe we have the range of life experience Women are here at Laing+Simmons , compassionate Port Macquarie to cover pe ty nt re with a diffe all bases. We work in e. We of life experienc lance of an environment where ba can be confident we understand the everyone is encouraged a career, in are working as hard rd ha ng ki or w to share their extensive miliar as we possibly can for and we’re also fa of ds skills and knowledge to them. with the deman .” ily m unite as a team, and as a fa a g in Kristin: rais result we are very customer Laing+Simmons Port focused, and our clients Macquarie is the top agency reap the rewards. With eight in the Laing+Simmons franchise sales agents working together, we group, so it was important for me have earned an unparalleled reputation to also offer something new to this for service and consistently sell more already successful office. Having operated properties than any other agency in Port in the Mosman market, my experience in Macquarie. selling prestige residential properties provides Our dominant presence in the local market our office with the opportunity to further is a key strength. When it comes to the scope enhance its services in the high-end market of our sales campaigns, our clients benefit in Port Macquarie. from our strong representation in the local Would you recommend real estate as a media, exposure for their property on at least good career choice for women? eight national real estate websites, as well as Sherryl: Absolutely. Establishing and visibility in the largest and most prominent maintaining long term relationships with real estate window display in Port Macquarie. clients is the most satisfying aspect of my We charge no upfront marketing fees, and if day, and it’s also why I believe real estate there is no sale, there is no fee*. Our clients makes a fantastic career choice for women.

“

Obviously it’s essential to work hard and there are long hours involved, but there is also a degree of flexibility and clients respond to agents who have walked the same path as them. The satisfaction you get from forming strong relationships and achieving great results for clients you genuinely care about makes it very rewarding.

Kristin: Yes, a career in real estate can offer versatility for women. The skill sets you develop can easily transfer from one market to another, or even from one profession to another. After several years specialising in the Lower North Shore real estate market in Sydney, I’m fortunate to now apply this experience in the next stage of my career with Port Macquarie’s leading agency. I was raised in Orange and consider myself a country girl at heart, so I owe much to an industry that allows me to relocate to Port Macquarie to be with my family and still continue a fulfilling career. *non-auction campaign

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Dr. Muyesser M Durur It’s been a busy and progressive year for Charles Sturt University and Campus Director Dr Muyesser Muy Durur. The expansion plans and progress pro towards a purpose built facility are now w underway. Muyesser te tells us more... campus campu us o, a year since you relocated to PMQ, how are you settling into the coastal lifestyle?

My family and I are really enjoying being back in Port Macquarie. The community and university have been very welcoming. It has been wonderful to rekindle old relationships and create some new ones, as well as getting my walking shoes on and reacquainting myself with our beautiful coastal walks ... Port Macquarie and CSU are certainly the places to be!

CSU has already shown great strength and growth. Comparing last year to this year, please give us some statistics ...

Since taking up the position in February 2012, I have really enjoyed working with our community to establish a campus from scratch and seeing it grow. Last year we started out with 43 students in four Bachelor degree programs offered in conjunction with North Coast TAFE. So here we are in 2013, offering an additional four CSU degree programs with nearly 200 students on campus (a 400% increase over 2012).

Our success in the first year, whilst very satisfying, has also created some short-term challenges for us. The increase in student numbers has required us to extend our presence in Port Macquarie from one site to two, with our campus at 27 Grant Street and our new office space at 68 Clarence Street.

The CSU team has also grown significantly.

We now have 14 full-time staff and 11 parttime or sessional lecturers. There has been a great balance between providing employment opportunities for locals and also attracting high quality staff from across Australia.

We’ve come a long way from working out of a two-bedroom apartment in the Observatory when we first began last year! Our success is a tribute to the belief of the community, commitment by students and efforts of staff – a partnership that will continue to underpin our growth.

What is the ratio of local students to those who have relocated for the courses? What

does this tell us for the future?

Approximately 2/3 of this year’s new students are from the Mid North Coast, with the remainder coming from across NSW and further afield. There is an equal mix of school leavers and mature age students.

This mix of ages and home towns I think lends itself very well for the future of the university and Port Macquarie. Students have options to further their study without having to leave the region, and the influx of students (and their visiting families) from outside the Mid North Coast will not only add to the economy, but will also increase the attractiveness of the town to young people aged 18 - 25.

The new campus plans are now well underway. What progress can we expect to see through 2013?

We have secured land on Major Innes Road (behind the Lake Innes shopping centre) and by the end of March a Project Director will be appointed.

Extensive community consultation and master planning will begin in April. Detailed design will occur from July to November, and it is hoped that a builder will be appointed for the first stage of building by the end of the year.

CSU is committed to Port Macquarie. Phase 1 of the project is approximately $35m, of which $15m comes from Commonwealth Government funding. CSU is investing $20m of its own funds and will be seeking further funding.

Getting involved with the community both for yourself and CSU has been important for you. Tell us about this ...

CSU is committed to building strong relationships with all levels of government, industry, business, other education providers and the wider community. These partnerships are vital if the university is to be relevant to the needs and aspirations of people living in the region and is to provide high-quality learning experiences for our students. We have had great support from all of these stakeholders, particularly Port Macquarie- Hastings Council, the Mid North Coast Local Health District (MNCLHD), the University of NSW, North Coast TAFE, the business community and local schools.

Two significant partnership examples are community – something I am very passionate the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) about. we have with the MNCLHD, which provides: I am involved in a number of community and improved clinical placement opportunities for industry boards and organisations, such as The our students; professional development for Edmund Barton Centre, The Brolga Project, Port both CSU and MNCLHD staff; and the potential Macquarie Chamber of Commerce and the Mid for joint research projects.

North Coast Independent Industry Development We have also recently signed an agreement Board. This enables me to actively contribute with St Columba Anglican School for the use to the development of a strong and sustainable of their laboratory facilities for the next three future for the region. years for our paramedic and medical imaging It makes for a very busy calendar, but it’s a students. role I am relishing.

Last year was a lot about listening and What is the overall vision for the responding to the needs of the next two - three years? community. We established During our first 12 months our Community Connect we have put in place ay ng w We’ve come a lo Business Dinners, where solid foundations for a of t ou from working in we met with 60 business the future. The next t en tm ar ap two-bedroom n we first he leaders from the region. two to three years are w ry to va er the O bs Our success As a result, we will be key to us achieving began last year! e belief of the holding two similar our objective of is a tri bute to th by mmitment community, co events in 2013, as well establishing a fully a – f af st of forts students and ef ill continue as the Small Business integrated university w at partnership th Management Seminar campus for the Mid growth .” to underpin our Series beginning in March.

North Coast, with 5,000 We also facilitated the students by 2030. formation of Luminosity Youth This will need an ongoing Inc. in response to a request from deep partnership between our educational leaders and community community, all levels of government, the members to help address the gap in broader university, students and staff. providing leadership development for young We will continue to bring new course people in our region. We are very excited about programs to the region and develop community the Luminosity Youth Summit, which will be relationships further afield to ensure that we held in Port Macquarie in July. are listening and responding to the needs of Universities are not only about learning, the greater region. but also creating knowledge, innovation and Our building program will be an exciting part providing an enriching experience for staff, of the next phase. 2014 will see construction students and the wider community. We are commence, with the aim of having the first looking forward to creating opportunities for teaching facilities completed by February debate and discussion on ideas, issues and 2015. The balance of the buildings will be challenges important to people living in the progressively delivered in the following two region with the introduction of our Public years.

Lecture Series, which starts next month.

We also have a strong vision for Port I believe in the transformational powers Macquarie as a centre for applied research of education in creating opportunities and relevant to the region, and work has already enabling us to be the very best we can be. begun to develop this, including research in I have been privileged to have had many health, aged care and food/soil/water quality learning and development opportunities, and (where we are working closely with the my role with CSU provides me with a platform Council). to share my experiences and give back to the Thanks Dr Durur.

“

greater port macquarie focus 71

w o m e n

Elizabeth McGregor.

i n

Institute Director, North Coast TAFE

What is the unique selling point in your business? Our unique selling point is practicality and quality - and the fact that individuals and businesses can access our services on-the-job, online or on-campus (or a mix of all three!).

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? We sponsor community events, business awards like Employee of the Year, and important initiatives like the Education and Skills Forums up and down the coast. But I think the biggest difference and value we offer is in the way our students and teachers get involved in local activities like the Ironman, Saltwater Freshwater Festivals, and the wonderful Welcome to Country video at Sea Acres.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? First up, and coming soon, a whole new way of learning through a ‘modernised OTEN’, if you like, called TAFEnow.

Second, learning in new industry areas like Sustainability and Allied Health. Third, a new suite of TAFE-to-Uni pathways.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? We recently won the Australian Training Award for Skills in Sustainability Education – a great national honour.

And when it comes to graduates’ satisfaction in our teaching, assessment and overall quality, we were rated with Australia’s best VET providers for the fifth year in a row. One milestone we’re celebrating is that we enrolled our highest ever number of students last year (nearly 47,000).

What’s your business’ competitive edge?

I think our competitive edge lies in our wellestablished pedigree: proven, accredited, handson training, personalised learning experiences and a comprehensive suite of services to industry. And we’re here for the long haul.

b u s i n e s s

Focus Ladies.

Jo, Jasmin, Louise, Annette and Chrissy

What is the unique selling point in your business?

We are lucky that FOCUS itself is a unique product in the media marketplace, and particularly in our regional area’s. Our format of being a glossy, coffee table lifestyle publication that offers both advertising opportunities for local businesses and a platform to tell the stories of the people in our region is really what makes it special.

Our creative graphic team ensure that FOCUS is always at the forefront of design, so we make sure that our advertisements stand out and our stories are displayed in an easy to read format.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013?

The product itself doesn’t change, so what we are making sure we do for our regular clients is value add. We have a number of innovative

ways that we have begun to do this including the development of our own APP for the iPhone & Android called EAT. featuring our local cafe’s, restaurants and eateries which led then to the development of our iPad APP, so that no matter where you are - you can always download and read our latest edition.

What’s your businesses competitive edge?

Our competitive edge is always going to be our passion and drive to be the best we can be, and that is culture that we have developed in the business throughout the past 7 years and one that our staff carry with them too.

When you are passionate about what you do, and have a genuine will to do well, and do well for your clients and staff then the rest will follow.

That integrity is what drives us to make sure we always do our best.

21,000 COPIES. 50,000 READERS* NOW ON THE IPAD. Feature Story y GREATER POR PORT RT M MACQUARIE ACQUARIE

GET THE COMPETITIVE EDGE Whether you choose to study on-the-job, on-line or on-campus, our qualifications will ensure you gain the competitive advantage you need to be more than you imagine and take your career or business to the next level.

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72 greater port macquarie focus.

Angus Gill

September //su issue August Au A ugus gu g usstt 2012 201 201 012012 2 // // issue isss ue e 81 81 82

and iphone and facebook and focusmag.com.au and issuu and twitter

S P R I N G

* Readership is estimated at 2.5 readers per copy.

Each month h over 120 local businesses in the Greater er Port Macquarie area trust Focus to achieve results, results drive sales and provide value for money for their advertising budget.

WE DELIVER.

w o m e n

i n

b u s i n e s s

“

We aim to make sure women feel confident making money decisions for themselves, their family and their future.”

Karen Archer. Naturopath Herbalist Iridologist

Ursula Boorman. Direct Advisers Director

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? I love talking about nutrition and food, so I enjoy volunteering my time to talk to local community groups about how nutritional change can improve their health and performance. Any group looking for assistance with diet and nutrition is always welcome to contact me. I donate my time to local organisations such as the Hastings Business Womens Network and Lifeline Mid Coast.

several times per year, as well as receive discounts on their prescribed treatments. More details are available on my website.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? In February, Direct Advisers celebrated 27 years in business. We are the oldest financial planning firm on the Mid North Coast.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? Taking a proactive approach to our health is important, but being healthy can cost more. This year I’m hoping to help ease the financial burden, while still ensuring my clients receive all the naturopathic care they require. With that in mind, I have developed Annual Packages where, for a small monthly fee, clients can access my expertise and advice

What's your business’ competitive edge?

As a naturopath, my approach is to improve my clients’ overall health. I assess and treat the whole person, not just a group of symptoms.

My aim is to get a lasting health improvement, to remove the cause of the problem, not just remove the immediate symptoms. I really care about what I do, and it’s important to me to get results for my clients.

Tell us about any recent awards or milestones you are celebrating? Right now, I’m celebrating my recent clinic relocation to the Waniora Shopping Village. I’m also celebrating my clients, because they are willing to trust my judgment and try new ideas to improve their health.

How does your business support local initiatives or charities? I have two young daughters, so I actively support and volunteer my time to the Saints Netball club. Through the Westport Club, Saints also supports the Red Shield Appeal.

What's your business’ competitive edge?

Having our own Financial Services Licence rather than operating under the licence of a financial institution ensures that we are able to provide advice free from outside influences and conflicts of interest. In 1990, Direct Advisers was one of the first firms in Australia to provide financial planning advice on a fee for service basis, rather than accepting commissions.

What is the unique selling point in your business? Clients value our relationship and trust that we are always looking out for their best interest. They know that we will always consider their individual needs and take care in selecting and monitoring their investment portfolio.

What are you offering that is new for customers in 2013? We are very excited to launch our need2know workshops, which are a series of educational sessions that are designed to help women boost their confidence when dealing with money issues. These interactive workshops will be conducted in a small group environment and encourage participants to ask lots of questions. We aim to make sure women feel confident making money decisions for themselves, their family and their future. Make sure you know what you need2know by attending a need2know workshop – details are listed below.

greater port macquarie focus 73

focus_travel.

my holiday

Aitutaki - Cook Islands.

Cook Islands

Jasmin Hati recently travelled to the Cook Islands to get married and enjoy a family holiday ... she found an untouched paradise – what many describe as ‘ Heaven on Earth’! ravel location: Aitutaki, Aitutaki Rarotonga.

Flights: We flew Air New Zealand; it is a direct 6 hour flight from Sydney to Rarotonga, then a further 45 minute flight from Rarotonga to Aitutaki flying with Air Raro.

We chose Aitutaki because: Our closet friends are from Aitutaki and recommended it. We also did some research of our own, and the crystal clear lagoons and stunning beauty and the whole romantic feel won us over. Our choice was to go to Aitutaki, as most people call the island ‘Heaven on Earth’.

We stayed at: Amuri Guest house. Amuri is one of seven villages on Aitutaki and is one of the biggest villages. There are a lot of guest houses all over the island; the guest houses provide a real island feel experience.

Then there are the resorts, and there are plenty of those on the island, with picturesque views right out your window greeting you every day. The resort life is very relaxing and a wonderful experience. The lagoon resorts are out of this world, as the tourist huts are built over the water, offering an even better experience.

The wildlife around the entire island was so special and added a very personal touch to the experience, as it was very curious and entertaining at times and the animals became like family pets! Chickens and piglets and goats will greet you out your front door, whether you were taking out washing or picking the fruits from the fruit trees that surrounded you.

Crabs will freely walk around your front and backyards; they would walk across roads, 74

greater port macquarie focus.

and there are stories that the shop keepers on the island will lay blankets out the front for the crabs to sleep on during the night.

The sea life was also amazing, as turtles will just be swimming past you as you’re swimming in the water, and giant starfish lay scattered all over. The different species of fish were also amazing, and they were very curious. One piece of advice is to invest in an underwater camera, as there is a lot of beauty underneath the water – not just on top.

The food: As expected, there was a lot of fresh seafood, which is cheap and plentiful. Most of the locals will catch their own seafood and will offer and share their catch of the day with the tourists and guests. Most food supplies are New Zealand products and are shipped from New Zealand once a month on a cargo ship.

Fruit trees grow in abundance around the island; you will find mangoes, apples, paw paws, oranges, bananas, just to name a few, which you can freely pick for yourself. You can also get your pizza, pasta and Chinese fixes as well.

The resorts also offer buffets and fine dining, if that’s what you feel like eating. You can’t go past the markets on a Saturday, which are a buzz of activity with locals and tourists alike. The donuts, which are a big hit at the markets, are the best and seem to fill you up every time; they are also very cheap.

As the island has its religious beliefs, no shops are open on Sundays apart from one, so it was always best to get your food supplies the day before. Also, a lot of the families run takeaway shops from the front of their houses as an income to support themselves,

and they’re a good experience to try. so word of warning: if you ever get married The most amazing experience of our trip in Aitutaki, practice your dancing skills! was: Our wedding! It was held at Pacific Then to top the night off, mingling with Resort Aitutaki, on their private white sand other resort guests and staff was relaxing and beach. The workers on the resort had made just an enjoyable atmosphere. the day an unforgettable experience, setting A big surprise on our holiday was: Getup a hand made palm tree leaf arch and ting to experience the simple lifestyle of the hand picked Frangipanis. They also created Aitutaki locals – because we didn’t stay at a love heart in the sand using red Hibiscus one of the resorts, we got to spend a lot flowers, which stood out in the white sand, more personal time with the locals and see and they also scattered the Hibiscus how they live. The road rules on the island flowers around the sand. were a real eye opener; the amount of The ceremony was just scooters ... nearly every person you right: short and sweet, met had one. It was amazing.

The sea life was and the local pastor The people live off the land, also amazing, as made the ceremony and time has no bearing, as turtles will juststbe very intimate. It was they are a very relaxed and laid u yo swimming pa ming shared with our two back people. The children are im sw re as you’ .” kids and family. Once er super friendly to all visitors on at w e th in the ceremony was over, their island as well. The island is there were plenty beautikid friendly, and there is a lot for ful backdrops to choose from, the kids to do, which is a nice distracand you were never stuck with tion from TVs and computer games. The ideas of where to take your next photo, as kids made their own fun – especially playing you were always surrounded by the beauty. with the animals, snorkelling the crystal clear The sunsets are postcard pictures every time waters and swimming with all the multiyou take a photo. coloured fish and the coral. It puts you in To top it off, our wedding dinner was another world. planned to coincide with the resort’s island The hospitality that the locals show and night, where they have an all you can eat respect they give is humbling, and it shows in island buffet with all the best food the island the amount of tourists who come and enjoy has to offer, and later you are entertained by their island. the Cook Island dancers, island drum band The majority of tourists are either from the and fire dancers. They’re full of energy and USA or Europe, which is amazing given the really get the tourists into the feel of everysize of their countries ... and out of all the thing; it was amazing. And as part of island places in the world, they picked Aitutaki. tradition, the bride and groom had to get up Just amazing – and we would definitely and dance to the beat of the island drums ... return to the island in the near future.

“

Colonial Cobbler.

Ziera is a fresh brand name launched styles One is the of their new autumn/winter styles. by the Kumfs team. The Ziera team Emerald style, which is a classic Mary-Jane are passionate about making beautiful which we have in a selection of 3 colour shoes that are comfortable for everyday choices. The other is an ankle boot that is wear. This dedication to both style available in black. Both of these styles are and comfort is something orthotic friendly and can be worn that continues to be at the with either your own prescription forefront of their business. orthotic, or the generic one For the Their shoes are based on that comes with the shoe. months of years of in-depth research Either way, the comfort is il March and Apr be into women’s feet and awesome. ill 2013, Ziera w a FF O 0 the anatomy of the foot. $3 g Come in to the store and offerin new All Ziera styles incorporate couple of their try on the Ziera shoes; feel autumn/winter high-tech materials that the benefi ts of walking in a styles.” come together to give shoe that offers not only style, multiple layers of comfort but comfort too. underfoot.

Come and see what is in store at For the months of March and April Colonial Cobbler today, and don’t miss 2013, Ziera will be offering $30 OFF a couple out on the Ziera special!

“

90 Horton Street Port Macquarie (02) 6583 2208

greater port macquarie focus 75

focusinterview.

Have you ever thought about the sheer scale and size Noah’s Ark would have needed to be to carry its cargo – or indeed, wondered if it would actually be possible for ANY ship to cope with this amount of weight, given the conditions it needed to operate under?

oel Deed has done a lot of research on this subject, and he’s also constructed two model Arks to scale, following the dimensions and specifications given in the Bible. You can actually view these models, and ask Noel questions yourself if you’re interested …

When did you move to Port Macquarie?

My wife, Dawn, and I are Victorians who moved to Port Macquarie in 2005. I am a fit and active 76, though have met and overcome a few health challenges. I qualified in Accountancy (FCPA), Local Government Management and Auditing (FIMM) and at a later time as a Company Director. Most of my working life was spent with 5 different Victorian Councils … a total of 15 years as Shire Secretary, 16 years as Town Clerk (Wonthaggi), and 6 years as Board Member of a Regional Water Authority.

How did you first become interested in the story of Noah’s Ark? My fascination with Noah’s Ark and the Genesis Flood dates back to my teen years. When our children were quite young, I made my first Noah’s Ark of pine timber, measuring 77cm x 21 cm. It proved to be an excellent toy and toy animal storage.

Aside from having built nearly 20 Noah’s Arks for family and friends, I had a growing desire to build one to the dimensions and guidelines given in the Bible. This was prompted by a conviction that such a model would reveal an impressive degree of credibility, as a real ship, designed to do just what the Bible says of it … to save the life of man, bird and beast and to ride out a catastrophic world-wide flood. I see Noah’s Ark and the global flood as key elements to the credibility of the Bible.

You’ve actually constructed two model Arks ... how do they differ from each other?

The first model measures 1.6 m long, 266 mm wide and 160 mm high. This model is the complete ship, and is on a scale 1:85.

The second model measures 425 mm long, 900 mm wide and 540 mm high. This model is a CUT-OFF version of the full model, but on a larger scale. Its major feature is the cross76 greater port macquarie focus.

sectional view it gives of the Ark’s interior.

Both models are made from a variety of timber cut into thin and narrow lengths, to ensure realism in how each was assembled and how the real Ark would appear. Timber used was mainly meranti, pine, and cedar.

The first model was built over a period of 20 months and involved an estimated 900 working hours. The second model was built over about 12 months and in fact, is not quite finished. It has taken longer to build than I expected, with some 700 hours to date.

How detailed are each of the models?

Each model with their 3 main deck levels is quite intricate and detailed.

The full ship model has 2 lift-off roof sections. At one end, the internal middle deck also lifts out, revealing the lower deck underneath.

At its other end, a whole internal section, from floor to upper deck, lifts out to reveal many animal enclosures, ramps, steps, barricades etc ‘in elevation’.

The cross-section model provides a sense of realism … with its ramps, pens, food storage areas and multi-planked hull for strength. Its larger scale matches the size of the several animals in their enclosures. This model also includes a system of battery-operated LEDlights with a dimmer switch. Now Noah’s Ark is certainly not thought to have had electric lights! My purpose here is two-fold … showing minimal light impresses the point that near darkness would help animals sleep and hibernate, whilst full lighting allows viewers to see and appreciate the internal structures. The Ark’s one external door is also included.

Many people would argue that there’s no way a ship the size the original Ark must have been could possibly float – especially considering the cargo it had to carry.

What’s your point of view on this theory?

The sheer massiveness of the Ark (137 m long x 23 m wide x 13 m high) certainly staggers the imagination. Allowing for the shaped ends, it had a volume of some 40,000 cubic metres, 3 main decks and a capacity of 15,000 tonnes.

In 1996, John Woodmorappe, a biologist and geologist, published Noah’s Ark: a Feasibil-

ity Study. He tallied up about 8,000 genera, including extinct genera, thus about 16,000 individual animals needing to be housed on the Ark. The biblical kind was much broader than today’s species. The largest of these were probably represented by ‘teen’ pe Woodmorap d or younger specimens. His demonstrateve ha ld ou w rk studies show that only 11% the A ass of I have given presenhad a spare0m by number of the animals on ns. some 6,00 rktow ld tations with my two ou the Ark were substantially Thus, the Afar from en models to a number of be ve ha larger than sheep. He shows loaded. ” er ov groups, but to date not to that all the animals together schools.

Some schools have would have needed less than half contacted me for visits this the available floor space, while food year, and these are expected to volume would have been about 15% start soon.

Children of all ages who saw and drinking water another 10%. the models at last year’s model boat show were This detailed study estimated the empty Ark really drawn to them. to be 4,000 tons, plus the biomass, food and They expressed surprise that Noah’s Ark was water taken on board at start a further 7,092 like a REAL ship and nothing like the usual Ark tons – total 11,092 tons. image looking like an enlarged bath tub shape Based on a draft of 15 cubits [Genesis 7.20], with a giraffe and elephant’s trunk hanging the Ark’s cargo mass would be some 17,000 over the sides. Their questions related to how tons. Woodmorappe demonstrated the Ark many animals were on the Ark, how much would have had a spare mass of some 6,000 food had to be carried, and how often the pens tons. Thus, the Ark would have been far from had to be cleaned out. overloaded.

How do people contact you if they’re interOne may well ask, “Why was the Ark so ested in fi nding out more? huge?” Briefly, it was such because … (a) the I’m available to interested community flood was global and the Ark was to house groups/schools or individuals seeking more its cargo for about a year (b) it needed critical information, or wishing to view the models. mass to survive the stresses of sea condiEmail: noeldeed@gmail.com or messages can tions (c) God provided a ship big enough to be left on: (02) 6582 6561. take many persons who took up Noah’s long The two Ark models will be on display in proclaimed invitation to come on board and the ‘Bible Village’ which will be part of the escape. Only 8 did so. upcoming HISTORY program, to be presented I might add the comment that the biblical on March 24, 25, 26 (between 6.30pm and proportions given for the hull (length 6 times 8.30pm each night) at the Seventh-day Adventhe width and the beam to height ratio of 5:3) tist Church, Maranatha Place, Port Macquarie. have been proved by modern maritime research Further, a free information night for the to ensure stability in the most turbulent sea public will be held to give opportunity to see conditions! the models up close and to gain insights into When you present your models in front Noah’s Ark and the Flood on April 11, at 7pm, of community groups or schools, what also at the Seventh-day Adventist Church. are some of the questions children would Thanks Noel. Interview by Jo Atkins. normally ask you?

“

Join Lakewood Shopping Centre.

Just a short drive from Port Macquarie Centre has recently undergone substantial and minutes from the heart of improvements, which include multiple Laurieton, you will find the tenancy relocations, tenancy relaxed and convenient upgrades, and the installation of Lakewood Shopping disabled access ramps and non New to Centre. slip pavement. t lis

“the

The Centre is home to The owners are inviting of retailers is il Ta y gl ig a full line Woolworths W expressions of interest from The Supermarket, parties seeking to join this Pork Shop and Butchery” Woolworths Liquor, family friendly Centre in Khodary’s Pharmacy, the way of retail, medical or $2 Plus Shop, Streamline food offerings. The Centre has Hair Design, Elixer of fantastic parking and provides a Beauty, Blend Espresso, and wonderful neighbourhood following. newly opened Wiggly Tail Pork Shop If you would like to find out more, please Butchery. Now under new ownership, the contact Andrew Bendel on 0418 567 662.

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30 Jambali Road Port Macquarie Phone 02 6581 2677 www.peakcoffee.com.au Trading Hours Monday to Friday 7.30am - 5.00pm Saturday 7.30am - 11.30am

greater port macquarie focus 77

By Glenise McLaughlin from The Natural Health Sanctum

By Jodie Kennett ett from JK Healthcare

What’s All The ut Food?

Fuss About

Ready to start a family?

Are you and your aking partner making ve a plans to have baby?

id you know that the pre-conception period is an important window of opportunity to ensure you have all of the nutrients required not only to conceive, but also to nourish the growing foetus, and ultimately deliver the healthiest baby possible?

Pre-conception care should ideally begin at least three to four months prior to trying to conceive, allowing adequate preparation time for both parents to achieve optimal health.

Although it takes two to make a baby, the pre-conception spotlight all too often falls solely on the mother-to-be. The reality is, however, that men have more than just a small part to play in creating a healthy baby. So for the best possible outcome, both partners must be included in preconception care.

Some things that you can do are: • Eat a healthy, well balanced diet

D

• Participate in regular physical activity • Stress less • Take a high quality pregnancy formula • Fish oils – during pre-conception it is essential to take only high quality fish oil supplements that have been specially purified to reduce heavy metal and pesticide levels that may affect the health of the foetus. Practitioner only brands are best.

The benefits of pre-conception and pregnancy care extend far beyond nine months – they last a lifetime.

If you are planning to have a baby in the near future, make a conscious decision to do the best for you and your baby and start a pre-conception and pregnancy program today.

At The Natural Health Sanctum, Glenise McLaughlin with over 18 years’ experience can design a pre-conception and pregnancy program specifically for you. Please call 6583 3544 for an appointment.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death, killing one Australian every 12 minutes. In 2011/12, 1.5 million Australians reported having high cholesterol levels, and 3.1 million had high blood pressure.

Confused about what is a healthy diet?

Need information, not gimmicks and strange diets? Looking for something realistic, that’s easy to follow? Then JKHealthcare can help you!

JKHealthcare not only offers individual consultations, but is now conducting groups as well. We focus not only on treating conditions such as Diabetes, Allergies and Gastrointestinal Disturbances, but preventing them as well. Groups include ‘Weight Loss Groups’ (men’s and women’s), ‘Heart Health’ to lower cholesterol, blood pressure and manage heart disease and ‘Virtual Supermarket Tours’. A new program also being offered to families will be ‘Back To School’, which will teach families what to put in the kids’

lunchboxes for school or daycare. “It even gives great tips for people working in the childcare industry,” says Jodie Kennett, Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD)/ Diabetes Educator with over 17 years’ experience.

Jessica Moss (APD), will be conducting groups to manage or prevent Heart Disease.

Learn what saturated fat is, how to increase your wholegrains and even decrease your salt intake. Groups will run for 1.5 hours, and cover topics such as foods to lower your cholesterol, healthy cooking ideas and surviving the supermarket. Numbers are kept small to allow opportunities to learn and ask questions. The room can also be hired by other groups looking for a space themselves.

To book, call JKHealthcare on 6583 7717, or drop into 1 Begonia Place, Port Macquarie. We also have a FREE newsletter full of tips and tricks, which anyone can subscribe to be emailing admin@ jkhealthcare.com.au

By Narda Newman-Harris – Hypnotherapist, Clinical Psychophysicist, Reader and Presenter.

Healing

H

olistic healing takes into account the ‘whole’ person, physical, emotional and mental, to bring about balance and harmony so that all aspects of a person are working together to create an overall wellness.

We are more than just a physical body; we are 'thinking' and 'feeling' beings ... we have, if you like, an emotional and a mental body, as well as our physical body.

One must consider that if our thoughts and feelings aren’t in alignment with what we truly want, if we feel fear, are overwhelmed or stressed, if our thoughts are negative or defeatist, we cannot function to our highest capacity.

More and more experts are discovering what the holistic healer has always known, that when only the physical body is treated, we are just treating symptoms, not the actual cause. That, in many

78 greater port macquarie focus.

cases, when you start the other way around and balanced state within our three bodies. It is a treat the cause of a problem, the symptoms simply quick, safe, and permanent way to eliminate the disappear. unwanted thoughts and feelings and replace So how do we get into balance? them with new positive programs.

We can think about ourselves as Those wishing to make positive biological computers: we too, changes in their life should a run on programs (the average consider hypnotherapy as a “ Hypnosis is deals therapy thatts adult runs on around 75,000). healing tool that gains results with though d is an g in We need to pinpoint those that are almost always instant. el fe d an ing designed to br programs (thoughts and I love that someone can nced about a balaou r feelings) that are not working walk into my office with a in ith state w for us, that are in opposition to problem that has been holding three bodies. ” what we truly desire in our lives them back for years and within and change them, transform them an hour, walk out completely free into the positive, so as to bring about the of it. life that we truly want.

For more information, phone 0419 025 774, Hypnosis is a therapy that deals with thoughts call into the healing clinic at 9 Mark Street, and feelings and is designed to bring about a Forster, or visit my website: www.narda.com.au

headaches? foggy brain? bloated? tired all the time?

Stomach upsets?

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

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

Your Heading Here!

Symptoms of food intolerance are many and varied and can include anxiety (acute/chronic), arthritis, ADD, bed wetting, bloating, chronic fatigue syndrome, constipation, diarrhoea, depression, muscle aches and pains, headaches, inflammatory bowel disease, insomnia, itchy skin problems, mood swings, sleep disturbances, weight control problems – and many, many more. Sufferers often complain of seeming to be in a ‘fog’, feeling bloated and being tired all the time.

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

Non-surgical Facial Rejuvenation Computer Eye Strain More people are coming in with concerns about computer related eye-strain. This is due to the fact that we are all using computers and ‘smart phones’ more and more – compared to the 1980s, when only 10% of the population was using computers each day to now, where the figure is up above 90%.

Computer eye-strain occurs due to two reasons. First, when concentrating on a computer screen, our blinking is halved.

Blinking regularly is vital in cleaning and refreshing the eyes. It provides nutrients and oxygen to the eyes whilst protecting them from unwanted bacteria. Reduced blinking will result in sore, dry and gritty eyes. Artificial tears may be of benefit and should be applied regularly when using computers.

Non-Surgical Facial Rejuvenation with Cosmetic Surgeon, Dr. Bobby A. Kumar Who doesn’t enjoy the confidence of looking refreshed and rejuvenated? For some of us, it takes a little more than a good sleep!

Dr. Bobby Kumar, Cosmetic Surgeon and Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery brings his extensive expertise and experience in Facial Surgery to NonSurgical Facial Rejuvenation. An underlying knowledge and appreciation of facial anatomy, musculature and nerve supply is essential to providing safe, effective and natural results with Anti Wrinkle & Dermal Filler Injections.

Anti Wrinkle Injections smooth and reduce wrinkles and lines to create a more youthful and refreshed appearance.

Second, constant focus at a close distance causes the eye muscles to fatigue and cramp and can result in blurred vision and headaches. Computers lessen the opportunity for us to move around the office, so our focus stays fixed for longer periods.

Anti Wrinkle Injections typically address: • Frown lines between the brows • Crows feet • Forehead worry lines

Things you can do to help avoid computer eye-strain:

Dermal Fillers work by restoring and adding volume to facial areas, lifting and smoothing deep lines and wrinkles.

Now a quick, reliable, simple, safe test for food intolerance to 59 foods is available at The Natural Health Sanctum. This procedure is the world’s first in-clinic test available for food intolerance. This test now forms part of our comprehensive Food Intolerance Program, which is specifically tailored to suit each individual’s needs. Be quick, be smart, be symptom free – book in for your Food Intolerance Program now.

• Sit at least 55 cm away from the screen and position the screen so that you look slightly downwards.

Glenise McLaughlin – Naturopath with over 18 years' experience, specialises in the natural treatment of food intolerances.

At Eyecare Plus, we take pride in designing eyewear specific to your individual needs. Whether for computer work, golf, cycling or whatever your vision needs are, we can help.

• Blink regularly and rest your eyes by looking away from the screen at least every 10 minutes.

• Tired or sore eyes may signal that it’s time to have your eyes checked to rule out a vision problem.

Dermal Filler Injections typically address: • Lips • Smile creases • Marionette lines Dr. Bobby Kumar performs all consultations and treatments personally. If you are seeking effective and natural results, with the expertise and experience you deserve, call Wendy on 1300 676 003 or 0430 491 009 or email bobby@bareaesthetics.com.au to arrange an appointment.

Your Vision - Our Focus

• Comprehensive eye examinations • Cataract & glaucoma testing • Digital retinal imaging • Health fund instant claims

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

www.eyecareplus.com.au greater port macquarie focus 79

For a Brighter Future To accomplish our philosophy we rely on highly qualified and trained staff whose passion is to teach and guide your child.

Children learn from staff behaviour and consequently, our staff are expected to be positive role models.

At Lighthouse Childcare we endeavour to ensure that our staff are happy, caring, passionate, fun, dedicated and engaged team members who have access to continual professional development and the best resources. We have thorough recruitment procedures, to ensure all staff possess the appropriate skills and experience for the position they hold.

We respect the staffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s initiative, innovation and attention to quality, as well as their commitment to the children and their families.

Our staff are provided with training opportunities throughout their employment to enhance their skills and keep up to date with current knowledge of best practice in early childhood. Furthermore, we carry out regular staff appraisals to grasp an understanding of the skills, knowledge and attitude of individual staff members. We aim to support the professional development of our staff and create opportunities for them to develop their proficiency.

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Staff will work in partnership with you, to provide a service that meets the needs of your child.

We currently have 8 staff members who are furthering their education with childcare: Dee Nitschke, Alex Waldren, Natasha Hamilton, Tania Dein and Kelly Cowell are completing their Diploma in Children's Services.

Tracy Brock is completing her Bachelor of Psychology with Honours.

Kate Alchin is completing her Bachelor of Education (Birth to 5 years) and Kate Irving is doing her Cert IV in training and assessing.

If you are looking for Childcare, After School Care or Vacation Care, give our office a call on (02) 6584 5585.

MARCH 2013

WITH TERRI

AQUARIUS.

GEMINI.

January 21 - February 19

May 22 - June 22

You will have victory very soon. Words will bring a positive outcome with a happy surprise. Your wish is coming true, but first you must heal past hurts by releasing them with GRATITUDE for the positive changes they brought to you.

Rose Quartz connects us to our loving beautiful self.

PISCES. February 20 - March 20

Your thoughts of yourself are quite destructive at the moment. Release your harsh judgment and compliment yourself regularly throughout the day, just to reestablish a new habit. Your kind words benefit so many others. Try the gift of giving this energy to you.

Carry some citrine with you, it shatters negativity.

ARIES. March 21 - April 20

Your emotions have been a little over sensitive lately as you have begun a cycle of self-discovery, where you will be letting go of a lot of passed hurt. Try to recognise all of your insecurities, so you can release them and their influence from your sphere of existence.

Phenacite is a wonderful stone for initiation, bringing a new level of awareness.

Relationships are likely to be on the main agenda this month. Be open with your communication to avoid any misunderstanding and know which insecurities belong to you and which ones don’t.

Kyanite helps build inner bridges so we can literally get over things.

CANCER. June 23 - July 23 Ju

Your action in life has slowed down as a result of not knowing what you’re wanting, and you’re taking life far too seriously.

Lighten up by bringing back that wonderful sense of humour; think about what would make you happy, and set some goals.

Turquoise gives self confidence a boost.

LEO. July 24 - August 23

You are the MAGICIAN, remember? All you need is a little clear direction.

As soon as you have set some goals, things will shift and change will be yours, effortlessly.

Spend some time in nature to release your tension.

Blue Quartz clears the mind, energises the body and connects us to our soul.

TAURUS.

VIRGO.

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23 A

Even though your challenges may seem overwhelming, look at the new you that you're expressing to the world. You are a very strong person, so congratulations on owning your own power. Try a little fresh goal setting; this will ease your restlessness. Tourmaline amplifies your inner peace, playful inner child energy and settles restlessness.

Avoid arguing the point at the moment, as this behaviour is stopping you from seeing the bigger picture. Your position is far more valuable as the wise 'peace-keeper', not the enemy. Soon change will show you how important your values really are. Be kind to yourself.

Clear Quartz gives our confidence a boost.

LIBRA. September 24 - October 23

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

Citrine attracts an abundance of positive energy and shatters negativity.

SCORPIO. October 24 - November 22

Movement is the main theme for the sensitive scorpio. Allow yourself the freedom to make choices without guilt. Guilt arises from low-esteem, and low esteem could leave you vulnerable to self-sabotage.

Rhodonite helps us discover new talents, which enriches our life.

SAGITTARIUS. November 23 - December 21

Bring back your laughter and play with life.

Your freedom will be found when you take a break from every day life. There is a new friend entering the picture, who will help you find a new talent. Avoid distractions from scavenging energies.

Kyanite helps us face our challenges with a joyful outlook.

CAPRICORN. December 22 - January 20

Reconnect with your talent in teaching people. You are able to share the most amazing insights and experiences, yet you’re afraid to speak for fear of how your words may be accepted. Focus on your intention or motive.

Rose Quartz is very nurturing for all situations.

greater port macquarie focus 81

focusinterview.

Back, L-R: Rachel Trevilyan & Donna-Lee Redfern. Front: L-R: Sharni Cooper, Karen Huf and Beryl Smith. Theme: Light it up Blue.

Awareness Event S a t u r d a y ,

P

A p r i l

lease introduce us to you, your partner and children ...

My name is Nicole Galea and together with my husband of 22 years, Andrew, we have 5 beautiful children. We have four boys: Alex (11), Zayn (8), Izaiah (6) and Zakkiah (4), all of whom are on the Autism Spectrum, and our gorgeous daughter, Xanthiah, who is 15 months old and has Down Syndrome.

You mentioned you have children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) ... what is your understanding of Autism and how it affects both behaviour and learning ability?

Children with ASDs will usually have impairments in social interaction, communication difficulties, restricted interests, and repetitive or stereotyped behaviours.

Autism affects people in varying degrees, which is why it is referred to as a ‘spectrum’ of disorders and although we have four children on the Autism Spectrum, they are all very different – no two people with Autism will be exactly alike!

We have found that Autism can affect behaviour and learning ability in different ways.

The boys can find it difficult to move from one activity to the next, may need more time to process what is being said, have difficulty understanding social cues and take things literally.

They have very restricted interests and obsessions and can suffer high levels of anxiety. This can make school a challenging and overwhelming place to be – often holding it together all day at school may mean chaos at home.

Using the boy’s interests as a motivator for good behaviour is usually successful. We are very fortunate that the boys attend an excellent school where they are supported wonderfully with excellent teachers.

What do you find is the most challenging aspect of living with Autism, and conversely, what is the most rewarding?

The most challenging aspect of living with Autism would definitely be the meltdowns, which are usually caused by anxiety or a disruption in routine. Sensory issues can also be challenging to 82 greater port macquarie focus.

6

deal with; sometimes I wonder how our house is still standing with all the jumping, flapping and spinning that goes on at times! We have been very fortunate to have our Occupational Therapist, Beryl Smith of Sensory Smart OT, involved in this regard – she has provided us with so many strategies to help reduce sensory issues.

Having four boys with Autism can be hectic, but it can also be very rewarding – they are intelligent, curious and have an infectious enthusiasm for life – you just have to find the best way to work with their Autism by focusing on their strengths. Seeing the results of all the hard work they put into therapy is also very rewarding – Zayn’s most recent school report showed excellent results in English – which is amazing, when you consider he also has an Auditory Processing Disorder and had so much difficultly with communication. It’s a testament to his speech therapist, Karen Stevens, and four years of hard work!

How has HAARG helped you and your family?

I discovered HAARG about 5 years ago. They were so supportive and knowledgeable; they provided us with a wealth of information about local services and resources. The meetings were also a great place to meet other families who are in a similar situation.

Why would you encourage people to attend the local Autism Awareness Day event on April 6?

It’s an excellent opportunity to meet other families and learn more about the supports and services provided in the Port Macquarie area.

Finding out your child has Autism can be quite daunting, but having a fantastic support network and the right professionals working with you can make the journey much easier.

Autism Awareness Day will be recognised locally with a special event on April 6.

Karen Huf from HAARG tells us more ...

What is HAARG? The Hastings Autism and Aspergers Resource Group known as ‘HAARG’ is a non-profit organisation run by volunteers who are dedicated

to helping people with an Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families.

HAARG began in Port Macquarie over 20 years ago as an Autistic support group called CASPERS (Country Autistic Support Persons). This group evolved into the incorporated association known as HAARG, which now offers a wide range of support services.

What are the aims of the organisation?

HAARG aims to help individuals and families affected by an ASD through all stages of life and provide an ongoing resource network that connects people with the support and events that are available in our local area. We also hope to raise community awareness of ASDs and the effects on individuals and their families. Autism is a lifelong developmental disability characterised by difficulties with social interaction, communication, restricted and repetitive interests and sensory sensitivities. About 1 in 100 people have an Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

HAARG has developed strong partnerships with key service providers, public schools and health professionals in our region. Our members include parents, grandparents, teachers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists and psychologists – anyone can become a member for free online at our website.

The services we offer have grown to include support groups, a monthly newsletter, a Resource Manual, supported Family Fun Days and a current Facebook page. Information on all our services can be found on our website at www. hastingsautism.org.au - This is all possible thanks to the generous community support given to our HAARG Op Shop on Ocean Drive in Lake Cathie and its wonderful Op Shop volunteers.

How did you personally become involved with HAARG, and what is your role with the organisation?

I first became involved with HAARG when both my sons were diagnosed with an ASD over 6 years ago. Although my involvement was irregular until the last 2 years, it has always been reassuring to know that there was a group of people who understood my situation and were

available if I needed help or someone to talk to. My current role with HAARG is as Secretary.

I write our informative monthly newsletter, maintain our website and organise our Family Fun Days once a term.

What is Autism Awareness Day, and where and when will it be acknowledged locally?

Autism Awareness Day is a worldwide campaign on 2 April to shine a light on Autism as a growing global health issue and to raise an awareness of Autism throughout society.

The theme ‘Light it up Blue’ sees many iconic landmarks worldwide shine blue, including the Sydney Opera House.

HAARG has joined forces with Beryl Smith at Sensory SMART OT to host an Autism Awareness Day event in Port Macquarie. This event was made possible through a Community Grant from Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. It will be held on Saturday 6 April at St Columba Anglican School from 10.30am to 1pm. This day aims to create awareness about Autism in the Hastings area, provide opportunities for networking and provide families facing Autism with additional support and exposure to services available in the area.

What activities are planned for the day?

The Autism Awareness Day will include seminars for the adults, display tables of services available in the local area, morning tea and sausage sizzle and heaps of fun activities for the children, with ‘Autism aware’ child care available.

The guest speakers will be paediatrician Dr Mark Johnson and psychologist Dr Natalie Green.

How much will it cost for people to attend the event, and where can people register, or find out more information?

Tickets to the event are FREE and can be booked online through the link on www. sensorysmartot.com.au or www.hastingsautism. org.au - Numbers are limited, so book quickly.

People can also find out more information via email at autismdaypmq@gmail.com or info@ sensorysmartot.com.au Thanks Karen.

Your faces Heading Here! Wauchope!

New at Milans Wow, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been 3 years since we began our journey at Milans Hairdressing Wauchope. While the time has come for our family to head off on an adventure, it is with all our hearts that we thank each and every client whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s given us the privilege to look after their styling over the past years. To the Waucho Wauchope community who welcomed us, and most of all our amaz amazing staff, we are eternally grateful.

S Shenade and Kylie will be continuing in the salon, with Kristy joining the team also. We are very excited to welcome new salon owner, Kim, who together with this dynamic team will take care of all your styling needs.

Stay tuned for some exciting new services introduced and a fresh look for the salon. Visit and enjoy the same friendly atmosphere and high standard of service. Matt will be returning to the salon from time to time for those die-hard fans.

We wish Kim and the team all the best for the future and look forward to following all the wonderful plans that will be unfolding. Please be sure to drop in and say hi, as they continue to share an amazing future with the Wauchope community.

greater port macquarie focus 83

No experience or partner is needed.

Your Heading Cuban Salsa &Here!

Latin Dance School!

Come and learn the latest Cuban/Columbian dance rhythms with Cuban Salsa Teacher Galina.

It's a great way to keep the body and mind fit and healthy. Galina learnt to dance Salsa and other Latin street dance styles, including ChaChaCha, Son, Rueda, Bachata, Merengue and Cumbia whilst living in London. She has been teaching Salsa in the Hastings and Manning Valleys for 10 years and dancing since she was 4 years old.

No experience or partner is needed. Beginners courses run for 6 weeks at the Rotary Community Centre, 198 Hastings River Drive, each Monday from 7.30pm. Private lessons are available by appointment; 16 yrs+ and Couples Only classes are increasingly popular. She also runs Improver, Intermediate and Advanced level classes. Monthly Salsa party nights are held at Zebu Bar & Grill on the 1st and 3rd Sunday from 6pm and on the last Sunday of the month at QuayLime Café on the Marina. Everyone is welcome, from beginners to advanced, to share her passion for Salsa dance and music and all other Latin street dance.

Salsa Footprints will celebrate its 10th Anniversary with a Latin Band and Performance Group, and guest teacher SANDRO from Switzerland, in Port Macquarie on 13 April. Call Galina 0422 751 021, or email raissaraissa@hotmail.com for more information.

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greater port macquarie focus.

YourPhysical HeadingCulture Here!

BJP BJP Physical Culture, or Physie (pronounced ‘fizzy’), is a sport for girls and women from 4 years up which aims to build confidence, good posture, strength, fitness and flexibility through exercise. Long before exercise became a growth industry, Bjelke-Petersen Physical Culture was keeping Australian girls and women fit and healthy. Our choreography is age-appropriately designed to teach the relationship of music to movement, rhythm, co-ordination, balance, and musical interpretation. Physical Culture is a marvellous way to develop healthy minds and bodies whilst forming friendships that last a lifetime. Most of all, it’s a lot of fun!

We provide a fun, safe, non-elitist, inexpensive, team-based sport, encouraging girls and women from all communities to participate.

Physical activity is essential for a healthy life. The sooner we develop the habit, the easier it is to maintain. Physie is the ideal environment to inspire this healthy habit in girls and women. Girls and women love being social. With Physie they can exercise, network and have fun from the age of 3 up.

Come and join us and help yourself or your daughter or friend to a great active, fun and caring experience!

Port’sHeading Newest Dance Your Here! School Come and discover the beauty.

Principal Kristy, who is ARAD full member of the Royal Academy of Dance, will be offering a unique mix of dance classes, Teen Fitness and Adult Classes.

Classes for Tiny Tots from 2½ years can come and try out a free class.

Bring your little ones to enjoy a class in friendly environment where each child is nurtured, improving movement, coordination and confidence skills as well as having fun.

KG Dance offers a comfortable reception area for mums to wait with siblings if needed.

New to Port Macquarie, KG Dance will also offer Adult Classes and Teen Fitness, and there is no dance experience required.

KG Dance Academy guarantees a high quality of dance training and has the experience to guide young dancers into professional careers right here in Port Macquarie.

For more information, contact Kristy Gastaldi 0407 900 913 – or call into 16 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie.

A Black Belt is a White Belt that Never Quit Many people tend to associate asso ‘Martial Arts’ with violent video games, movie heroes or caged fighters. Whilst superbly fit consenting athletes wanting to undertake a full contact bout should be admired, they represent less than 1% of all Martial Arts participants. umiai Ryu Martial Arts System [a government accredited professional Martial Arts School] prides itself on enhancing the overall wellbeing and education of the student base.

K

Sensei Will Ho and Claire Ellis are Kumiai Ryu members who created a healthy balance between martial arts training and HSC studies.

The two studied their HSC in 2012; Will was School Captain of Port Macquarie High and Claire attended St Joseph’s Regional College.

Both of their Atars were outstanding, Claire achieving a 94.05 and Will an 87.6. By training at the Kumiai Ryu Martial Arts Centre, the pair are not only fit and healthy, but also high academic achievers and confident, upstanding young citizens in the community.

Do you believe that KR helped you achieve such amazing results in your HSC? Will: Definitely - it was a major stress relief, helping to clear my mind and allowing me to sleep well at night.

Claire: Definitely - I got physical training with social interaction and was much happier, as I had

something to look forward to. I believe it kept me sane; it improved my mental concentration.

I usually go to sleep at night exhausted, not stressing over study.

training at

By the Kumiai Ryu e “ re, th Martial Arts Cent

fit and pair are not only high so al t bu y, health ers and academic achiev ding an st up , nt de confi the young citizens in .” ity un m com

Were your parents supportive of your training?

Will: My parents were.

Initially they worried my study would slide, but it helped that I would bring my homework or study notes to Karate and study between classes or do my homework if needed. I had to be organised to fit both in. When you love something, you just make it work.

Claire: My mum was very supportive and never complained driving me there. Initially she thought study was more important, but once she saw how happy and enthusiastic I was, she knew it was right for me. When the HSC exams were approaching, I preferred to be at KR and often took my laptop. I would ready my essays and

study before class, because KR has a great vibe. I looked forward to hanging out there (even if it was studying!)

What Martial Arts do you mostly train in?

Will: Mainly Karate. I have a black belt, have done Mauy Thai training as well, but Karate fits into my scheduled training days.

Claire: Mauy Thai - I love the ladies only classes, mixed Mauy Thai and being an assistant instructor in the kids’ classes.

How many times a week do you train?

Will: I dedicated Monday and Wednesdays to training, scheduled around study.

Claire: 3 - 4 times a week. I like that we have such a varied timetable with a huge choice of

martial art classes. This gave me all important study time, and I could be flexible with my training.

What are your plans for this year?

Will: I want to be a high school maths teacher and have been accepted into the University of Newcastle, studying Bachelor of Mathematics/ Teaching Secondary. Later in the year I will open a part time KR Dojo in Newcastle and help improve the lives of others the way Karate improved mine.

Claire: I have been accepted into the University of Newcastle studying Physiotherapy; however, I am taking a gap year working as an aged care assistant nurse. I am really keen to pursue a career in the science of the body and will continue my KR training and assistant instructing.

greater port macquarie focus 85

focushealth.

Get back on your feet. here have been many changes and lots of publicity surrounding private health insurance in recent times.

It is timely to be reminded of the wonderful services on offer at the Private Hospital. It is also a time to make sure you have considered cover for all services well in advance of requiring them.

One such service which is producing excellent patient outcomes at the Private Hospital and has been a part of the Hospital for over 5 years is the Rehabilitation Unit.

Rehabilitation is a very important medical specialty that deals with a broad range of patient conditions.

Rehabilitation Medicine addresses the

T

86 greater port macquarie focus.

complex web of problems of people of all ages with loss of function arising from injury or disease, to help them to achieve their maximum quality of life.

Dr Roslyn Avery is an outstanding Rehabilitation Physician and is the Director of the busy 19 bed Rehabilitation Unit at the Port Macquarie Private Hospital.

Dr Avery has overseen the development of the Unit and the team to create a service that is producing excellent patient outcomes.

At present the Unit sees close to 300 patient admissions per annum, and demand for its services grows every year.

Dr Averyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s professionalism, vast experience in the specialty and enthusiastic approach

ent the Unit

â&#x20AC;&#x153; At pres to caring for the Physiotherapists, community has Occupational Therapists, sees close to 300 per s on si is m ad provided great benefit Social Workers, Dieticians, nt patie d an m de to the region. This Speech Pathologists and d annum, an s effort has really put the Allied Health Assistants to ow for its services gr Port Macquarie Private provide patients with the every year.â&#x20AC;?

Hospital Rehabilitation best of care and produce great Unit on the map of quality clinical and lifestyle outcomes. medical services in the area.

For further information about The Rehabilitation Unit at the Unit, please do not hesitate to the Hospital caters for Orthopaedic, contact the hospital or visit our website www.

Spinal, Stroke and Head Injury rehabilitation, portmacquarieprivate.com.au or drop in to view Musculoskeletal issues and operates Amputee the facilities. and Reconditioning programs.

The Port Macquarie Private Hospital The team contains Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Unit will get you back on your Specialist (Dr Avery), Rehabilitation Nurses, feet!

Welcome to Port Macquarie X-Ray Port Macquarie X-Ray is a new independent imaging service that provides a premium patient service with timely diagnosis of injury and disease.

Friendly and Passionate Care Our team of friendly professionals are totally committed to making every patient visit as seamless as possible.

Walk in Services Walk-in General X-Rays and CT Scanning. No appointment necessary for most examinations.

Same Day Reporting We guarantee your report the same day as the consultation for urgent cases and within 24 hours for non urgent cases.

We guarantee that we will be able to fit your patient in within 24 hours of contacting us in urgent cases.

Why we are unique An independent private practice that is owned and managed by radiologists. Led by local and well respected radiologist - Clinical Director, Dr Bob Marshall.

• Supported by a team of nationally recognised subspecialist radiologists, including Cardiac, Musculoskeletal and Neurology. We guarantee 24

hours turn around for consultations and reports on general X-Rays.

• Superior client care and customer service.

• Excellent modes of report retrieval via electronic download, iPhone or iPad. • Electronic Referrals Accepted.

• Port Macquarie X-Ray believes in ensuring our referrers are in touch with the latest medical radiology information.

We offer regular doctor education programs.

Some of our education activities and areas of interest include: • Radiologist Training. • Medical Imaging Technologist and Radiology Nursing Training • GP Continuing Professional Development through the Division of GPs. • Medical Student training through UNSW Rural Clinical School We are committed to providing both social and educational evenings for doctors and allied health professionals to share our expertise and experiences.

greater port macquarie focus 87

focus_interview.

Dr Akram Youssef

T H E G O OD S H E PH E R D M E DICA L A N D DE N TA L C E N T R E lease introduce yourself to our 8.30 am -10pm. readers?

• We offer dental payment plans up to 18 My name is Akram Youssef. I was months interest free for the convenience of born in Alexandria, Egypt. Bachelor the patients, so they can have all the necessary Degree in Dentistry, Alexandria university, July dental treatments carried out without putting 1994, ranked 12th; about 18 years of experithem off until the small problems get worse. ence.

• We offer the dental and medical services I Left Egypt in 2005, stayed in Wagga under one roof for convenience.

Wagga for more than 7 years, worked at the • As I mentioned before, I possess 18 years of Marketplace Medical & Dental Centre, have clinical experience as a dentist, about 11 years another dental surgery in Sydney at Campbelloverseas and more than 7 years' Australian town, with 5 part-time dentists. local experience.

My wife is a chemist, and we have 2 boys: • I have worked in base hospitals and private Youssef, nearly 12, and Timothy, 3 years old. surgeries in Australia.

Coming from a medical background, my • We offer pain-free Dental treatment. father is a dermatologist, my mum is a • The latest digital equipment. paediatrecian and my sister is a What services are available GP. within the practice and what l ta I have loved that I have do you specialise in? en D er “ We off been recognised by some We offer all general denand Medical patients here in Port Mactistry, like full mouth check r services all unde quarie who used to see up, digital x-rays, scale the one roof for me in Wagga Wagga. and clean, periodontal that much needed Introduce us to your treatment, cosmetic resconvenience ” staff? torations, crowns, bridges, I am very proud to have extractions, root canal treat2 very professional Dental ment, porcelain veneers, teeth Hygienists, Miss Sharnee Chapwhitening and bleach, children's man and Mrs Carley Lewis, who are dental treatment. responsible for the check ups, scale and clean We accept the teen dental vouchers; Vet+ periodontal treatment. eran Affairs patients are welcome.

Both are very pleasant, with lots of clinical You mentioned an interest free payment experience. They promote the oral hygiene plan option – tell us more about this? instructions to all the schools, nursing homes The payment plans can be done either over and sports clubs.

6,12 or 18 months interest free through a Mrs Anna Stricker is the practice manager reputable finance company. The eligible candi– a multi-talented, lovely young lady and a dates should be employed or aged pensioners, mother of 2 boys like myself. She is responsithey pay about 25% upfront and then the rest ble for the bookings, billings and all promocan be paid in fortnightly installments. tional campaigns of the surgery; we are really We also do payment plans through our blessed to have her on board. We are also surgery for people who are not eligible for supported by highly skilled dental assistants. the financial payment plans. Approval can be For readers who are looking for a dentist, done over the phone. Come and talk to one what is it that makes The Good Shepherd of our friendly staff members to find out more Dental Care the one to choose? information.

This is a very good question. I would like to What are the opening hours for the pracmention a couple of points that make us very tice? unique from the other dental surgeries in Port We are open 8.30am - 6pm Saturday Macquarie and the surrounding areas: Wednesday and 8.30am -10pm Thursday and • We are open 7 days a week, Sat - Wed from Friday. We are located at The Good Shepherd 8.30am - 6pm, Thursdays and Fridays from Medical & Dental Centre, 10 Jindalee Road.

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88 greater port macquarie focus.

If You Are Serious About Change ...

I have been established in Port Macquarie as a Clinical Hypnotherapist and Counsellor for over 10 years now. I have been based at the Work-Life centre for the past 6 years working with other Allied Health Professionals, such as Psychologists and Occupational Therapists.

I have recently established a second Practice in Kempsey, also working with other therapists.

New after hours service.

The Good Shepherd Medical and Dental Centre has undergone some wonderful renovations, and now all your medical and dental needs are all under the one roof.

The medical centre now has three full-time and two part-time doctors on hand, as well as a full-time GP on hand after hours at the centre.

The facility is open 7 days a week, with an onsite pathologist and remedial massage also available. To make an appointment with Judy, phone 0408 973 979. Dr Cherif Meena and his wife, Nancy, moved to Australia just 12 years ago, where he practiced medicine at Bundaberg in Queensland. Dr Cherif also worked at the Durri Aboriginal Corporation Medical Services in Kempsey prior to moving here to Port Macquarie. The medical centre offers disabled

parking, along with off street parking and easy access for the elderly. Bulk billing is available for all appointments, including procedures and interest free payment plans. The Good Shepherd Medical and Dental Centre is also open in Laurieton; this practice is open 5 days a week and appointments can be made by phoning 6559 9618. Dr Cherif hopes to open a pharmacy at the centre, as well as providing cosmetic services in the near future. New patients are more than welcome, with after hours appointments available for emergency patients.

The centre offers an Aboriginal health worker, as well as a mental healthcare nurse who visits fortnightly.

To book your appointment, phone The Good Shepherd Medical Centre on 6581 4494.

In the time since beginning Practice, I have always felt very privileged that clients have allowed me into their personal lives to assist them in resolving issues and achieving their goals.

For most clients, I normally use a combination of Counselling and Hypnotherapy.

Counselling is very effective in assessing the presenting problem. This then allows me to establish where the issue originated from, an understanding of why it is present and other factors enabling it to continue. This process enables the client a better understanding of their behaviour and that their actions/feelings actually do make sense given their circumstances.

I then use Hypnotherapy to promote this change.

Hypnotherapy is simply putting suggestions into the subconscious or deeper part of the mind. Once there, the suggestions are used

automatically, much like riding a bike. Once it is learnt you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to think about weight distribution, pushing peddles or steering â&#x20AC;&#x201C; it just happens. Anything put into the subconscious is used automatically, so the need for willpower is much less.

You are in control the whole time when under Hypnosis. Hypnotherapy speeds up the process of emotional and behavioural change. It allows the client to achieve their goals much easier and quicker.

I practice most areas of Counselling and Hypnotherapy, but specialise in long term emotional and behavioural change. This area covers many issues, such as: Self Worth & Self Esteem, Anxiety & Stress, Weight Loss, Anger & Sadness reduction.

greater port macquarie focus 89

90 greater port macquarie focus.

focus_business.

with the Port Macquarie Chamber of Commerce mmerce

focus_health.

Hadyn Oriti.

Massage by Ling.

MINDING YOUR

BUSINESS THERE ARE FEW ISSUES MORE CRITICAL TO OUR SENSE OF PLACE IN PORT MACQUARIE THAN OUR FORESHORE.

T

he foreshore was a source of food and resources for the Birpai and other Aboriginal tribes of the region. From the time of free settlement, the commercial use of the river saw the development of boat sheds, warehouses and wharves. Our connection to the rest of the world depended on access to the river and the sea.

Historically, we have always valued the Hastings River and our beaches for what they give us in terms of commerce, trade, rest and recreation. Unlike in some of our major cities, our river is healthy, and we have maintained access to it up to the present day.

The release of the Plan of Management for the foreshore prepared by the NSW Government Architects office seeks to continue and enhance our relationship with the foreshore.

By and large, the Chamber of Commerce is happy with the plan.

Cynics may consider the future of our foreshore is an issue incapable of resolution. We have been in this consultation process before.

While debating its future, we are left with a precinct that is starting to look a little frayed.

In 2006, the Chamber undertook a consultation with interested parties that resulted in the Waterfront Consultation Report. That report led to the Council’s Foreshore Masterplan in 2009 and the most recent iteration of the Crown Lands vision for the foreshore released for consultation. The plan of management is informed by the vision to develop a vibrant and interactive CBD, strengthening the local economy.

The Chamber’s CBD policy released in 2008 said: “Port Macquarie has a unique ‘sense of place’. Its history, from its convict origins through its development from a sleepy fishing town to the vibrant urban area it is today has

helped to form a unique character. The grand Norfolk Island Pines and historic buildings adjacent to the Hastings River and the region’s climate all go into the mix that defines the town’s character. That character has played a significant role in attracting residents, tourists and commercial development to the region.

“A unique character is an essential element for any regional town to prosper, and in Port Macquarie’s case it is an essential element to preserve. In Port Macquarie, it is especially important that this ‘sense of place’ is maintained, because that is what makes this town special and a desirable place to visit. A sense of place is fundamental to ensuring we maintain a real destination for tourists”.

Submissions on the plan of management are to be received by no later than 22 March 2013. I encourage everyone who is interested in preserving our sense of place and creating a vibrant and interactive foreshore to have a look at the plan and put in submissions. Businesses can provide feedback to the Chamber of Commerce. We will be seeking our members’ views on the plan, which we will take into account when formulating our own submission.

However, when this consultation is done and we have a final plan, we need action. We cannot be here banging on about the need for action on the foreshore in another 7 years.

The proposed plan of management has short, medium and long term objectives. The State Government is listening but when the consultation is complete, they will have no excuse but to implement the short term actions in the plan immediately. Both Council and State need to work co-operatively to ensure we see some tangible results for the long term. We look forward to working with Peter Besseling and Leslie Williams for the best outcomes possible for the community.

“Boy, I could really use a good massage!”

How often do we hear people saying this; usually as they rub a sore back, a painful limb or, occasionally, just because they feel worn out, tired and stressed?

Genuine massage therapy is a medically recognised treatment, through which a therapist endeavours to identify the body’s original biomechanical dysfunction then Through Port uses a number of highly Massage at s specialised techniques Macquarie, Lit nisg’to to locate and to repair commitmenperior, practice, she was already damage to muscles, tenprovide a sugenuinely recognised and respected d an g n ri ca dons and joints, healing ive massage ct for her work in another local fe ef the cause of the disorder, experience.” massage business. as well as the symptoms.

Through Massage at Port The key benefits of Macquarie, Ling’s commitment is Remedial Massage involve the to provide a superior, caring and genustimulation of the blood supply inely effective massage experience. Her many allowing toxins in the muscles to be removed, clients are a clear testimony to her success and the calming of the peripheral nervous system some of their comments may be found on to ease pain and discomfort, and the toning or Ling’s website: www.massageatportmacquarie. relaxing of muscles - to improve joint mobility. com.au Professional remedial masseurs train for many Massage at Port Macquarie is located in a years to gain qualification and proficiency then lovely, air conditioned and serene, purposework very hard indeed, to effectively treat their built home clinic, at 16 Montague Street, off patients.

Bangalay Drive, in the Lighthouse Beach/Shelly He Ling Ying (affectionately known as ‘Ling’) Beach area, where parking is hassle-free and is the very likable proprietor of Massage at only metres from the door. Ling’s hours are Port Macquarie and is recognised by many as between 8.30am – 8pm on weekdays, 9am one of the finest masseurs on the Mid North – 4pm Saturdays, with some flexibility where Coast. Trained, both in her native China and required but, due to the popularity of the in Australia, Ling has received a great deal of practice, appointments are generally necessary. praise for her practice and she has won many Most health fund rebates are available. friends in our region, not only for her undoubtCongratulations to you, Ling; not only for ed expertise but also for her traditional Chinese the anniversary and success of your massage courtesy and care. Effectively treating chronic clinic, but for relieving pain and discomfort for pain, sports or trade injuries, stress and disso many and for your genuinely considerate comfort, Ling’s strong and caring hands have and selfless care towards clients. helped so many and her calming influence has And, by the way:“Boy, I could really use a repeatedly rationalised the irrational. good massage!”

Men and women, young and not-so-young, Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter.

Ling welcomes all who may need her help.

From time to time, expectant mothers attend her clinic, in search of some form of relief from the plug! symptoms that are really only known to expectMassage at Port Macquarie ant mothers! With considerable training in this 16 Montague Street, Port Macquarie field, Ling usually manages to provide them T: 6582 6560 M: 0447 587 574 with a real and meaningful reprieve.

E: ling@massageatportmacquarie.com.au March marks the first anniversary of Ling’s W: www.massageatportmacquarie.com.au clinic although, prior to opening her private

“

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92 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

By Jane Hillsdon Principal Consultant of Dragonfly Marketing

Business Neville Parsons - Holiday Coast Credit Union he Holiday Coast Credit Union has been around for almost 50 years and is quite an inspirational story for other local businesses in the region. Please tell us how the Holiday Credit Union began?

Here in the Hastings, the credit union commenced in September 1967 at the then Hastings Rural Dairy Cooperative. It was established to provide savings and loans to the employees of and the suppliers to the dairy cooperative. It started through the foresight of the local credit union pioneers that saw the opportunity for the staff and the suppliers through their financial cooperative to make a difference to the financial wellbeing of each other.

Today, Holiday Coast Credit Union also incorporates what was a small credit union based in Taree and that also started in 1967 – Manning Local Government Employees Credit Union and also Maitland Community Credit Union, that started in Rutherford in 1970.

How is the Holiday Coast Credit Union different from other banks?

Holiday Coast is a mutual. That is, it is a financial cooperative where our members are both our customers and our owners (shareholders). There is no distinction between a customer and a shareholder and as such, the focus of the credit union is to provide financial services that increase the financial wellbeing of its customers who are its members and its owners.

Being a mutual makes it easy to focus on our ethos of “It’s about the customer … always!”

We also have a focus on developing our local community; it is also part of the credit union ethos of enhancing the financial and social wellbeing of members and their community.

We are committed to this and indeed, that has been part of our fabric since inception.

Building strong relationships with your customer is important in many businesses.

How does HCCU build strong relationships with their customers?

It is about truly understanding that “it is about

the customer … always” and in accepting that position then our staff are trained to ensure that they get to know our customers so that we, as their credit union, can provide solutions that not only meet the needs of our customers but often exceed those needs.

This is about conversations, and in the past when we were small and very much a single business focus, then the staff of the day literally knew each and every customer.

Today, our challenge is through our staff to build relationships with our customers that will enable us to truly know and understand their financial needs.

It is the way that we do things … the little things that count and again, we have over the last 3 and half years invested a lot of time and dollars in our staff and training sessions with our Customer Care Adviser, Dr Ian Brooks.

Customer Care is a task, and a lot of businesses take it for granted … and pay the price of not having a Customer Experience Management program.

How do you manage to keep your staff motivated and engaged with the growth of HCCU? Through ongoing and persistent staff training and development specifically in relation to us being customer driven, and the importance of fully appreciating the positioning: “It’s about the customer … always”.

We regularly hold Staff Training sessions, with at least two times a year having our Customer Care Adviser Dr Ian Brooks attend and work with specific teams and groups of our staff.

At least every second year we also hold a formal Staff Conference, where all of the team are invited to participate in a weekend of learning and socialising. Again, these Conferences are facilitated by Dr Brooks, and the focus is always on the customer.

The greatest learning from such comes from the segment where we invite customers to attend and tell us what they like about our service, what they feel we could improve and most importantly, what is great customer service in their eyes.

Ongoing learning is the key, and regular

communication of ourr Strategic Plan and Position and the importance of being viable and relevant.

Tell us about your background and how you came to be in Wauchope?

I am lucky enough to be one of those people to have been born and bred here in the Hastings.

I was born in Wauchope and went to school in Wauchope, before I left to study Economics / Law at The University of Sydney. I then returned after graduating to commence work as a Solicitor with the then Sanderson Hall & Co Solicitors in Wauchope in July 1981.

The business struck some difficulty, and I approached the then Hastings Credit Union General Manager Ray Battle to see if they required someone legally qualified. I was offered a job with the credit union and started as their Legal Officer on 28 March 1983 … some 30 years ago.

As they say, the rest is history. I worked as the Accountant, Assistant General Manager, Acting General Manager and was appointed General Manager on 3 Feb 1988, just on 25 years ago.

What is the most rewarding part about your role with HCCU? Knowing that each day through Holiday Coast we make a real difference to the lives of our members through the provision of savings, loans and investments in a way that truly is focused on improving the members’ financial and social wellbeing.

The other is the ability to develop and educate the staff and to have them focus on the importance of being customer driven and the importance on living up to our corporate values.

And what are some of the biggest challenges you have personally faced throughout your career?

Initially, the age factor in being in a senior position where there were staff a lot older and strongly of the view of how could someone so young hold that position.

The challenge of change and the need to at times bulldoze through roadblocks to ensure that as a business we were ready for the next phase of development in banking, technology or most importantly, the expectations of customers.

ch hallenges from a The constant regulatory challenges financial system that fundamentally is driven by the big banks and at every opportunity, the value of the mutual sector is forced to be reminded to politicians and regulators as they seek to implement a one size fits all approach to regulatory and legislative change.

What do you think is the single most important factor in running a successful regional business?

Understanding that it is about the customer … always is key, and my belief is that in a regional business you can and must be closer to your customers. In that way you have the opportunity to have a personal relationship with customers and in that way deliver true value.

The other critical aspect is to ensure that you play an active role in the community that is delivering the business to you. That is both the business itself and its employees have to be actively engaged in making the community a better place to live work and play.

And finally, what advice do you have to offer to local business people wanting to enjoy the same success and longevity that HCCU has experienced?

The passion and belief for the business and its customers and community must be evident from the top and needs to filter through all involved in the business. It is also crucial that when needed that everyone is prepared to roll up the sleeves and help out as in any business there are times when things do not go to plan.

In those cases the recovery and how you treat your customers is crucial to ensuring long term viability and relevance.

It is about staying true to your values and the core business but at the same time constantly looking through the future lens to see what needs to change in the business to maintain its relevance to customers and its viability.

The biggest part of this is that the skill set of the team needs to adapt to the changing environment in which the business operates and at the same time always responding to the needs and expectations of customers … because It’s about the customers … always!

Thanks Neville!

focusinterview.

It's all about ability.

VERTO has been providing local employment services for the past four years, and now the organisation has expanded to offer specialist Disability Employment Services (DES).

Claire Stone is one of VERTO’s experienced Client Consultants, and she talks about how DES works and why local employers shouldn’t overlook people with disability when they’re recruiting.

What exactly is Disability Employment Service (DES)?

Essentially it’s a match-making service for businesses and people with disability. All our clients come to the service voluntarily. They genuinely want to work and are keen to find a job that uses their skills and abilities. We work with them to find that ideal job and provide ongoing support to both them and their employers.

What sort of support?

There’s a whole range of practical and financial support available - training, workplace modification if required, post-placement support and wage subsidies. These are just a few things we can do to assist in making the whole process smooth and simple, not to mention mutually beneficial.

It’s important to point out we are here to not only support the client, but also the employer. If any problems arise, we can step in

and work on them before they manifest into something substantial.

At the very minimum, both the employer and client will have our full support for one year. After the first year, we assess how things are going, and if needed we provide ongoing support.

What are the benefits for employing someone with disability?

People with disability, just like everyone else, have a whole range of individual skills, knowledge and abilities to offer potential employers, but often they get overlooked because of a lack of understanding about what it means to have a person with disability on staff.

There’s sometimes a perception that employing someone with disability is more expensive or more difficult, but the truth is actually completely the opposite. It's been well documented that employees with disability have lower rates of absenteeism, longer retention rates and even lower workers compensation premiums. And of course, we can also provide any additional specialist support required.

So what sort of one on one support can you offer your clients?

We offer short and long term disability sup-

port in the workplace and study environment and provide links between education, training and employment to help them achieve their life goals.

We actively support a society where we make sure our clients know that they matter, treating them with respect and upholding their legal and human rights.

What do you do to ensure a client is ready to work?

We’re here to help the client throughout their entire journey - from something as small as helping them with their resume through to interview preparation or organising training or work experience.

The strongest message I like to convey to my clients is that they need to focus on what they CAN do, not what they can’t.

What do you love most about your job?

Seeing progress within a client – it makes

me so happy to see the little successes they have along their journey.

I also enjoy helping people with disability connect with local employers. Ensuring that the client and the employer are a perfect match is very important to me.

If there are people out there who want to connect with DES, how do they do it?

We encourage all employers and people with disability to either call or drop into one of our local offices. If you need more information on the support available, verto.org.au/disabilityservices is a great place to start.

the plug!

You can find VERTO at: Kempsey: 64 Belgrave St, 6563 6000 Port Macquarie: Corner Short and William Sts, 6580 1900.

Employers know it’s all about ability! ... and hiring someone with disability makes good business sense.

VERTO’s Disability Employment Service offers: z Tailored recruitment support z Ongoing support from our specialised Client Consultant z Assistance with on-the-job training and workplace modifications z Funding incentives 64 Belgrave St, KEMPSEY | 6563 6000 Cnr Short & William Sts, PORT MACQUARIE | 6580 1900

verto.org.au 94 greater port macquarie focus.

focusinterview.

Tony Park leads a life most ost of us could only dream about … living half of each year in Africa, while he researches es and w writes his novels, and the other half of the year in Sydney. His latest novel, Dark k Heart, is a an adventurous thriller set against the backdrop of stunning African scenery and wildlife, with some insights into the mass genocide in Rwanda at its heart. Tony will visit the Port Macquarie Library on March 23 to talk about his life’s work … here did your working life commence?

I grew up in Sydney, in the Western Suburbs – out around Campbelltown.

I worked as a journalist in local newspapers for a few years, then for a previous State Government as a Press Secretary, followed by work in the private sector in public relations. But the one thing I always wanted to do since I was a kid wandering around the Municipal Library at Campbelltown was to write a novel.

How did the interest in Africa develop?

My wife, Nicola, and I had done quite a bit of travelling when we were younger. She decided – not me – that we should go to Africa. So, in 1995, with her doing all the planning, we went on what was supposed to be a ‘once in a lifetime’ three-week trip to Southern Africa.

We travelled around South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe, and I think we probably realised from about the first day that we entered the bush in the Kruger National Park in South Africa and had the most amazing wildlife experiences, that this was going to be anything BUT a once in a lifetime experience. We had to see more of this stunning country, incredible country and fascinating people.

You’re one of the fortunate few who can lay claim to the fact that the first manuscript you sent off to a publisher was actually accepted – and this, of course, was your book, Far Horizon.

I was very lucky. There’s an ‘X Factor’ in publishing, as there is in many industries, and no one can really put their finger on what the next thing is that a publisher will want … I had written Far Horizon pretty much for fun and as an experiment to see if I could write a book during our first extended trip to Africa.

After 1995, Nicola and I went back to Africa – we’ve been back there every year since, but our trips started getting longer. Around 19981999 we went on a 4-month trip, bought a

Land Rover and decided to take our time exploring Southern Africa, and I thought it would be fun to set a book around a fictional safari tour – and this, of course, was Far Horizon. It’s what you’d call a thriller, with a little bit of romance, a bit of acd my olld I never to tion, and a bit of advenerrss I was publishe ture set in Africa. sttan, going to Afghani nt me love it; it’s one of the truisms se What I didn’t realise but when they I r be em m for most authors. Authors re I l, at the time was that my the emai mbed bo d, ol an are very lucky to be able to in as w publisher, Pan Macmillan, ian aircraft ss Ru t ou make a living solely out of was actually looking for ar ngar on a base ne ha their writing.

I’ve found that work with a bit of action Kabul. . by doing a novel and a biograand romance set in Africa. phy a year for the last few years, I was very lucky being in the I’ve fi nally got to the stage where I right place at the right time. Anycan live off my income as a writer. one who is an inspiring author will come People also shouldn’t be under any illusions across no shortage of people who’ll tell them that it’s not hard work – it’s enjoyable, but if they’ll never make it, but it’s always worth a try. you want to write full-time for a living, you’ve It sure is! How did you feel when you had got to put the time in and amass the words. But the manuscript accepted?

I love it!

I was actually in Afghanistan … I’d been with You spend half of each year in South Afthe Army Reserve since I was 17, and I was rica, and the other half in Sydney. Explain deployed to Afghanistan in 2002 for 6 months the process of how you write when you’re as an Army PR officer. overseas and where you base yourself?

I’d submitted Far Horizon before that, and I’d I find that when I’m writing about another been told by the publishers that it would need country and people, I have to write on location. a bit of work and for various marketing reasons I tend to set my books wherever my travel in they weren’t ready to publish a book about Africa happens to take me … A large part of Africa too soon, but if I’d go back and take on my work is set out in the bush on the African board some of their editing suggestions, they’d game reserves.

My wife and I keep our Land let me know …

Rover in South Africa, and we recently bought I never told my publishers I was going to a house there as well.

If we’re not in the house, Afghanistan, but when they sent me the email, we’re out camping literally in the wilds with the I remember I was in an old, bombed out Russian incredible larger than life characters we encounaircraft hangar on a base near Kabul. Probably ter, such as lions and elephants. apart from my wedding day, it was the best day Your latest book is Dark Heart. In your of my life! Unfortunately, I couldn’t even have a view, what’s it about? beer to celebrate!

Dark Heart is a thriller set in South Africa and You have 9 works of fiction under our belt Rwanda, and it’s about new information that now – that’s quite a number of works to comes to light about the origins of the genocide produce in so few years. One would dein Rwanda back in 1994. That new information scribe you as a prolific author! is shared by an Aussie lawyer, a British doctor I’ve also co-written four non-fiction books in and a South African journalist. The new clues that period of time. I think you only write if you

about what started the genocide put them all in immediate danger.

It’s a story that looks at the darker aspects of recent African history and it also looks, as a subplot, at the contemporary issue of the illegal trade in wildlife, and even human body parts, for traditional medicine. It’s quite a scary, but unfortunately all too real phenomenon in Africa at the moment …

I’d like to point out, however, that I have a positive view of the continent; I look for positives, and there are elements of this story that give us hope for the future.

I think Rwanda, which I visited while I was writing the book, is a good example of this: unfortunately, the country will probably always be synonymous with the genocide, but it’s a country that has today made huge progress in healing its internal problems and conflicts, redeveloping the country and really in many ways leading the rest of the country when it comes to wildlife conservation. The Mountain Gorillas of Rwanda are also featured in this book, and in the 17 years since the Rwandan Genocide, the number of those gorillas, while they’re still endangered, has doubled. This is an amazing feat of conservation and hard work.

Thanks Tony. Interview by Jo Atkins.

the plug!

23

Saturday 23 March: 10am - 11.30am RSVP essential - phone the Library on 6581 8755.

Morning tea/coffee will be provided.

The Book Warehouse will have Tony’s books for sale and signing at the event.

greater port macquarie focus 95

Charles Sturt University (CSU) invites you to the

2013 Port Macquarie Public Lecture Series This Public Lecture Series brings speakers from a diverse range of disciplines to share the latest ideas, thinking and opinions on contemporary social, scientimc and cultural issues with the Port Macquarie community.

Delivered by prominent CSU academics, lectures in the series are designed to encourage debate and get Port Macquarie thinking about some of the ideas and issues facing society today. All lectures are to be held at The Glasshouse and are free and open to the public.

Lecture 1

Lecture 2

Wednesday 10 April 5.00-7.00pm

Wednesday 29 May 5.00-7.00pm

Christian-Muslim dialogue, social inclusion and Australia’s multi-faith democracy

Tastes, markets, trends: The Australian

wine consumer and the wine industry.

By Professors Chris Steele and Alain Deloire

By Professor James Haire AC

This public lecture deals with the inter-

and violence in relation to cultures.

Professor Chris Steele is Professor of

at CSU. Professor Deloire was previously

relationship of Christianity and Islam in

Professor James Haire AC is a professor

Viticulture at CSU and a key researcher

the Chair of the Department of Viticulture

the search for the creation of communities

of theology at CSU and the Director of

at the National Wine and Grape Industry

and Oenology at Stellenbosch University

of peace around the world. It begins by

CSU’s Australian Centre for Christianity

Centre (NWGIC).

in the Western Cape of South Africa.

looking at the violent worlds in which the

and Culture. From 1999 to 2002 Professor

His special interest is vine physiology,

Before that he spent 15 years working in

two religions began and then goes on

Haire was President of the Uniting Church

especially vine diseases and improving

academia in the south of France and 10

to observe the dynamics of peace and

in Australia and of the National Council

predictability in grape characteristics.

years in Champagne working in industry.

violence in the intercultural history of the

of Churches of Australia. He was made a

Professor Alain Deloire is Professor

two religions and from this, draws out

Companion of the Order of Australia (AC)

of Wine Science and the Director of the

conclusions on the experiences of peace

in the 2013 Australia Day Honours.

National Wine and Grape Industry Centre

Lecture 4

Lecture 3

Wednesday 23 October 5.00-7.00pm

Wednesday 21 August 5.00-7.00pm

Terrorism and Australia:

Advances in emergency medicine:

This public lecture deals with the recent signiÀcant advancements in emergency care that have greatly impacted the health and well being of patients. In many cases, the success of these treatments begins when citizens call 000 and the paramedics arrive. Examples will be presented of these time dependent emergencies, and the lecture will explore these medical advances on the Mid North Coast, and educate the public on how they can make

When does time really matter?

Risk and prevention, including the role of Änancing in terrorism

By Mr Joe Acker

By Professor Nick O’Brien

a difference between life and death.

Mr Joe Acker is the Paramedic Program Leader and Senior Lecturer at CSU in Port Macquarie. Joe had more than 22 years experience as a paramedic, educator, manager, and health executive in Canada prior to joining CSU in early 2010. He has worked as a paramedic in urban, regional, rural, and Indigenous communities and spent 10 years as a critical care helicopter Áight paramedic.

For more information: Alison Woods - Port Macquarie Campus phone 02 6582 9334 email alwoods@csu.edu.au 96 greater port macquarie focus.

This public lecture will examine past

counterterrorism group in Special Branch

terrorist acts and arrests in Australia and

at New Scotland Yard, during which

assess whether Australia is at risk from

time he also led the National Terrorist

terrorism in the future.

Financing Investigation Unit.

Professor Nick O’Brien is the Head of

Immediately prior to joining CSU he

CSU’s Australian Graduate School of

was the UK’s counterterrorism liaison

Policing and Security.

ofÀcer for Asia and the PaciÀc.

Professor O’Brien joined CSU after a distinguished career in policing.

He was Commander of the international

focus_interview.

Richardson Wauchope girl Kate Richardson one day dreams of taking a lifelong love of nature and photography from hobby to career. Chrissy Jones chatted with her and had a look at some of her creative works.

ow did you first get into photography?

I was inspired by my grandfather, who was a professional photographer.

Grandfather's stories and many experiences always fascinated me when I was growing up. I was given my first camera on my 10th birthday, and my interest in photography has continued as I grew older. Photography is my hobby and career of interest.

My love of nature helps me to create artwork that captures a scene that I saw, a sound that I heard, or an emotion that I experienced.

You obviously have a passion for photography â&#x20AC;&#x201C; what gives you inspiration?

My inspiration comes from everything that surrounds me ... from a pebble on the ground, to a cloud passing by in the sky. I aim to capture the broader picture in life, as I do not have a specific field of interest. Everything around me is a potential subject. I like to draw attention to the finer details of everyday, ordinary objects. This is done with the use

which is a simple point and shoot camera. As I become more experienced and technology advances, I will no doubt upgrade to more advanced photography equipment.

What do you hope es m co My inspiration at th to do with your ng hi yt er from ev a m fro ... skills in the e m ds of different techniques, surroun the ground to a on le future? bb pe including camera angles, in the sky. cloud passing by broader As I have lighting methods and the I aim to capture t completed no I do different depths of field. picture in life, as ld of Certificate 3 in Have you completed any have a specific fie around ng hi yt er Ev .

Childcare and am interest photography courses or l subject. me is a potentia currently studying for formal training? a Diploma, I would like Being mostly self-taught, to link my skills. It would be I have learnt a lot from making fantastic to develop my love of fundamental mistakes and also from nature, children and photography taking some amazing shots, some by pure together, so I may become a professional chance or just by being in the right spot at childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s photographer. the right time. I have completed two courses I would also like to expand on the skills that at the local community college: they were I already have learnt and branch out into all Compact Digital Photography and DSLR (digital fi elds of photography. single-lens reflex camera) Photography, which Do you have any favourite subjects?

I thoroughly enjoyed and learnt a lot from. As My favourite photography subject would time goes by, I will most likely do more courses be nature, taking in landscapes, animals, in coming years to help me to develop and and plants. Nature is a constant source of enhance my photography skills. spontaneity, where things are never the same.

What camera do you use at the moment Subjects in nature can look different or take and why?

The main camera that I use is a Nikon D7000 on a different meaning ... from varied angles or changing time of day, subjects can vary in with a 18 - 105 Nikkor lens, which is mainly appearance and appeal according to available used for general purposes, and a 70 - 300 light.

Nikkor lens, that I use for nature photography.

Living on a rural property on the outskirts of I also have a Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7,

Wauchope gives me plenty of opportunity to photograph my favourite subject: nature and our natural surroundings. I often walk out my door and come across a subject that takes my interest, be it a bird perched high in a tree or a spider web glistening in the sunlight.

Do you have a photo that you have taken that means a lot to you?

All my photographs are special to me, as I put lots of my time into every shot. Because of this, each image comes to have its own meaning to me; I cherish them all.

How can we view some more of your work? Do you have a gallery or studio?

As I have only just started out, I haven't a gallery set up, or a dedicated public space to view my works, but I do have a page dedicated to my artwork on Facebook. This can be found by searching for Kate Richardson Photography.

Like the page and you will receive my updates, which includes images that I capture on a day to day basis. I always have my camera close at hand to take that impromptu shot.

Do you wish to make a profession out of your photography?

I would love to make a profession out of my photography, whilst still treating it as a hobby. This way, I believe that I will get more enjoyment out of it, whilst earning an income, so it will be more of a lifestyle than just a job.

Nothing could be better than doing something that you love whilst making a living. A dream come true!

Thanks Kate. I wish you all the best. greater port macquarie focus 97

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m i e d e c k e

George is taking his career as a racing driver to a whole new level with his switch to Matt Stone Racing this year, and it’s a case of deja vu ...

With his family’s solid support, he is set to achieve his ambitions as a Supercar driver – despite the odd infamous crash!

Y

ou spent last year racing with hired Jimmy and his brother Ross all the way from Sonic Motorsports in the New Zealand to engineer our racing team all the Dunlop Series. How would you way back in the OXO Sierra days. It was from that rate the season? they built their reputation and team in Australia, and I’d rate it a B, if I’m honest. to be driving for Matt ... our fathers raced together, There were times when I was and now we will be racing ... it’s pretty special. #35 really happy with our pace, like qualifying 6th on was what dad used back then, so I’m bringing it out debut in Adelaide and placing 2nd in race two of retirement. Hopefully it’ll be good luck! in Townsville - but we were a bit up and down in What’s the goal for this season? performance throughout the year, and that really Well, if I’m not winning and contesting for wins hurt us. Sometimes it was me as a rookie, sometimes this year, it’s not enough. I have the team, I have the I think it may have been the car, but all in all I think car, I have the engineer - I’m ready to go and get we have some things to be proud of and a few some results. From my first impression of the car, I things to work on for this year. think we’ll be in a position to do that for sure You have switched teams this year the thing is a rocket! to Matt Stone Racing. Tell us It’s going to be an interesting about the team. year in the main series with One of the things I’m really 2 new manufacturers, is excited about is the team Mercedes and Nissan The plan to ly this year. Matt Stone is joining Ford and Holden. definite es ri se the son of Jim Stone, Is the plan to get into the pursue a main orking w re one of racing’s legendary main series in the future, e’ w so e, iv dr t at bu , Stone Brothers, who and have there been at th at rd ha ed ne I t created one of the most any opportunities for an en om m e th e m so e successful V8 Supercar endurance drive? uc od pr to teams in history - it was The plan is definitely to .” lts su re with Jimmy that Marcos pursue a main series drive, so Ambrose won his two V8 we’re working hard at that, but Supercar titles, so you know the at the moment I need to produce pedigree is there! Matt has been some results. Post Clipsal (Adelaide) slowly building a really strong team up in I’ll be having those conversations about Queensland, and with his dad selling his stake in endurance drives, and a good finish will definitely Stone Brothers Racing last year, has even employed help! The main series will be interesting for sure. him! Things are looking great; we have a great car Mercedes and Nissan have great motorsport history and a great engineering group to help make the car but at the same time, Ford and Holden have been fast - it’s really up to the driver this year. at it a while and have the formula for success here What is the historical significance behind your pretty much dialled. That being said, I think there union with this team? will be a few surprises this year!

Well, it’s really interesting. Dad (Andrew Miedecke) Since we caught up with you last time, you got

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in a bit of trouble with Dad, crashing his Ford Capri at Targa. That video now has over 1.2 million views. Has Dad forgiven you yet?

Short answer: no! The car is almost repaired a year later, and I know I’ll never drive it. EVER. But hey, I probably deserve that. I would like it on record that I was leading at the time though!

All jokes aside, Dad is my greatest supporter, and I don’t know what I’d do without him. At the end of last year I had a few doubts, but he always believes in me and pushes me to be my best. Not much more you can ask for from a parent than that ... And he gets it. He’s a racer. He’s been there!

You’ve had a lot of success in the V8 Utes in the past and unlike many other drivers on the grid, spent some time in Nascar under Marcos Ambrose. Looking back, do you think your time in the US has given you a unique advantage?

I’m not sure. I definitely have a breadth of skill that some of the other guys don’t; I feel like I’m very versatile and capable in different areas of the sport - but at the same time V8 Supercars are such a specific technique, such a specialised skill set, that really what counts is being good at driving this specific car. I think I’m getting there.

Give a shout out to your sponsors and supporters ...

The most pivotal person in my racing career thus far (apart from Dad) has to be Jason Gomersall.

Through his company, iSeek Communications, he has supported me in some way or another since we met in 2008, and being able to count on him as a friend as well has been amazing. He races too, so he knows what it takes, knows how I feel sometimes and has been a great support. I really feel like I have great support in Port Macquarie as well, and returning home to the well wishes of friends and family is always an amazing boost.

Thanks George.

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motoring.

‘The The Smug Smug’ g

The Smug takes some time out to test drive the very smart and versatile Subaru Forester 2.5i-S, courtesy of Port Macquarie Subaru.

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few test drives ago I had the pleasure of taking the Subaru Outback 3.6R Premium out on the open road and was suitably impressed by the class, style and versatility of that offering. The Subaru Forester 2.5i-S is the somewhat sportier little bro of the Outback and certainly packs enough punch on its own to let you know it’s well in the game.

One of the best parts of my test drive outings is identifying and testing the new and unique features of modern day motor vehicles. The ‘new’ Forester certainly has some brilliant additions to its already very tidy chassis.

From the keyless entry, fully digital dashboard displays with all the bells and whistles, push button start and the spacious and comfortable interior, there’s all the usual elements you’d come to expect from a 2013 family wagon or SUV and more.

What really stood out for me in the first few minutes of taking to the road with the 2.5i-S was the elevated positioning of the vehicle on the road.

Obviously most sedans and wagons sit relatively low to the ground, and it would be fair to say most four wheel drives sit quite high on the road. The new Forester would be smack bang in between the two, an unusual yet appealing height somewhere in the mid-range which is quite unique and dynamic.

Subaru have decided to give the Forester a very useful 220 mm ground clearance which I must say, works on a number of levels. Having the ability to look over the sedans in front of you is great from a safety and awareness point of view, but it’s not too high where you feel detached from the road that can be an issue with some of the larger SUVs. The extra clearance is certainly very helpful when taking to the off-road elements and is, in my view, a huge win for this, the fourth installment of the Forester.

The other key element that took my surprise was the whisper quiet drive that the Forester offers. There was a moment when I was stopped at a set of lights

and I was blown away with how quiet the engine was. I had to laugh though, when I took my The extra foot off the brake to start clearance is lpful ‘moving forward’; the engine certainly very he e th ‘Miss Daisy’ mode for re-started in a fraction of when taking to and ts en em obvious reasons. The ‘S’ for el d oa f-r of a second, and I was on my ew, a huge vi y Sport mode gives you some m in , is way. I’d been driving quite a this, the fourth r fo serious grunt when and in w few different cars of late and lment of the al st where you need it, and the in had forgotten about the stop/ rester.”

Fo SportSharp (S#) mode is for start fuel saving technology the trained professional driver that is a key emissions and fuel who just wants to own-the-stripessaving technology feature of the off the winding country roads.

Subaru’s. The engine literally turns off What is remarkable is that around town when stopped and turns back on when you it feels like you’re driving a prestige dedicated road take your foot off the brake. vehicle, yet it’s fully capable off-road. Not many The roads were extremely wet and gravelly from four wheel drives can claim the same versatility and the massive downpour that the Hastings has had ultimate driver experience. in the last few days, and I was certainly feeling a With the inclusion of the X-Mode feature, the off bit cautious taking out a brand new car into the road capabilities are reportedly as good as anything elements. The Forester held fast to the road in any on the market and if there was a patch of dirt in or situation and even when I might have tried to over or around the local area that wasn’t still under water, I understeer, at no time did I feel that I was vulnerable would have certainly tested the theory. or that the vehicle couldn’t compensate to safely Like any decent priced new vehicle these days, the control the situation. new Forester is not short on options to customise the The Japanese designed symmetrical all-wheel-drive look and features inside and out, and the price point system with horizontally opposed boxer engine makes is literally wherever you want it to start or finish. for some awesome grip and drive, and these features If you’re keen on sticking to the base model, it alone are enough for me to be a huge fan of this seriously ticks all the boxes as far as standard options vehicle and Subarus in general. and I’d suggest if you’re in the market for a bit of The 2.5i-S caters for the auto or manual interior room with space for mum and dad and three preferential driver with the paddle shift controls as kids or less, this one has plenty to offer without well as the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), breaking the bank. or let’s just call it an Automatic drive mode.

Saying that, the new Forester 2.5i-S certainly In a great twist, the new Forester 2.0XT and shouldn’t be thought of as a middle-class family 2.0XT Premium SI-Drive models come with Subaru wagon slash weekend toy. It’s certainly an appealing Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive), which is an offering of option to many demographics, be it for safety, style three distinctive driving modes. or comfort reasons.

The Forester certainly rates highly The ‘I’ mode is the Intelligent mode, which means and is one of my favourite under-the-radar honest the car basically does all the work in the most fuel and value for money drives of the year. efficient method possible – I dubbed this one the

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'Absolutely amazing voice' - Richard Wilkins.

Promoting Happy, Healthy And Active Seniors Engaging and learning new skills not only keeps you young at heart; it also stimulates and exercises your brain, keeping it active. While seniors can join any of our courses, we also structure a variety of our popular classes catering for the mature citizens in our community - some of these include: Internet/email courses: You become connected and keep in touch with family and friends topics covered include search the web, send and receive emails, attach photos or documents. Or maybe learn about the benefits of social media and how to use it effectively and securely for communication, education and networking.

Includes Facebook, Google, Twitter, Skype, YouTube and Website blogs.

The basics of watercolours class will show you the fun and easy way to make bookmarks and cards. You don’t need to know how to draw,

as the teacher can supply patterns, or you can create your own designs.

Always wanted to try Tai Chi - come and have fun while learning to use your body as one with very little effort!

Introduction to Nutrition - During this interactive session you will learn how to improve your nutritional health. This workshop covers an older person’s nutritional needs, physical and nutritional maladies and health promotion.

Been given a digital device but not sure how it works? The focus is on digital devices and their use, including music on an iPod, ‘Kindles’ and ‘Readers’ and how they work, how to use YouTube as a learning tool or how to interface your mobile phone with a PC. The community college will also have a stand and be running workshops at the Seniors Expo at Port Panthers on M on 18 M arch – s ee y ou t here!

Seniors Week @ The Glasshouse Superstar of Australian music theatre Dale Burridge is kicking off Seniors Week in style on Monday 18 March at the Glasshouse.

Star of Les Miserables, The Sound of Music, Phantom of the Opera and more, Dale has been described by Richard Wilkins as “one of Australia’s finest performers.”

Dale will send chills up your spine with his sensational voice – this world-class talent will enthral you with his suburb renditions of your favourite songs from smash-hit musicals, as well as songs by Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Josh Groban.

This is a unique opportunity to hear one of Australia’s finest musical theatre talents – get your ticket today!

On Friday come along for Young at Heart. This

special event is Australia's only seniors film festival. From humble beginnings in 2006, the Festival has grown to become the only film festival in the world catering specifically to film lovers over 60 years of age. This is a free event, and bookings are essential.

Plus, if you have ever wondered about ‘behind the scenes’ at the Glasshouse, don’t miss the free Glasshouse tour during Seniors Week – just remember to book to avoid disappointment.

And seniors save 20% in the Blank Canvas Café all through Seniors Week!

THE EVENT: Morning Music with Dale Burridge, Monday 18 March 11am. Tickets: $24 adult; $20 Glasshouse Members. Book now at the Glasshouse, phone 6581 8888 or online at glasshouse.org.au

Seniors

WEEK @

THE GLASSHOUSE

Morning Music presents

DALE BURRIDGE IN CLASS ACT Monday 18 March, 11am

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’T DONTH I S! I SS

A superstar of Australian music theatre, Dale has starred in The Sound of Music, Lés Miserables and The Phantom of The Opera.

“Absolutely amazing voice – one of Australia’s finest performers” Richard Wilkins

ALSO...

Wednesday 20 March, 11am.

BEHIND THE SCENES GLASSHOUSE TOUR. Free.

Friday 22 March, 10.30am.

YOUNG AT HEART SHORT FILM AWARDS. Free.

BOOK NOW!

Friday 22 March, 12.30 - 1.30pm.

FRIDAY LUNCHTIME CONCERT. Free.

Seniors save 20% at Blank Canvas Café*

* Conditions apply

GLASSHOUSE PORT MACQUARIE 02 6581 8888 glasshouse.org.au Cnr Clarence & Hay Sts, Port Macquarie, NSW 2444

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Sensational Seniors Week Seniors eniors Week is all about recognising the valuable contributions older people make in our community, and it provides the chance to highlight the range of interests and achievements of people over the age of 55. arch is an opportunity to celebrate Port MacquarieHastings’ sensational seniors, with a week of events acknowledging their contributions to our community.

Seniors Week, in its 55th year, is celebrated from March 1724 and to mark the occasion and the theme ‘Live Life’, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is hosting a free Seniors Lifestyle Expo at Port Panthers. The inaugural Expo, to be held on March 18 between 9.30am and 4pm, will feature 75 information stalls, live entertainment and free workshops on topics ranging from travel to tai chi, legal rights, how to use medications, art, music, wealth, health and insurance products.

Council received a $1,000 NSW Seniors Week grant to host the event, which is being sponsored by Port Panthers and supported by representatives from the Department of Veterans Affairs, National Seniors, U3A, Probus, Residents Action Network, Sunrise Rotary, Hastings Combined Seniors and Association of Independent Retirees.

Expo visitors will also have an opportunity to find out more about local community groups such as Port Macquarie Table Tennis Club, Sing Australia, Rhythm Revue, the Village Singers Choir, Port Macquarie Town Band, the Rock n Roll Dance Club and Hastings Ukulele Club.

The Glasshouse will also open its doors during Seniors Week.

Those wanting a musical treat can enjoy the sounds of Sinfonia at the Glasshouse on 17 March at 2pm. Sinfonia, the community orchestra of the Mid North Coast, will be performing at the Glasshouse Salute to Seniors concert. The concert will be an enjoyable mix of music, certain to appeal to a range of musical

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tastes and performed to a standard audiences appreciate. Under the baton of James Hannah, himself a well-known senior in Port Macquarie musical and theatrical circles, with assistant conductor, Iain Pole, a musical identity in the Camden Haven area, Sinfonia is a cultural treasure of the Mid North Coast.

Some 50 amateur musicians from across the region gather to rehearse regularly and perform in halls and churches in many communities twice a year for the popular June and November concert series. Salute to Seniors is a special concert, made possible in part by the NSW State-funded grant. Tickets are $5.

Film buffs will be treated to something special, with a screening of films listed as finalists in the Young at Heart Seniors Film Festival. From humble beginnings in 2006, the Festival has grown to become the only film festival in the world catering specifically to film lovers over 60 years of age. This year, Port Macquarie has been selected as a regional host.

This special free Seniors Week screening at the Glasshouse Ross Family Studio on 22 March at 10.30am will showcase the finalists in this annual national short film competition.

For those wanting to explore the Glasshouse, the doors will be open for a free behind the scenes tour on 20 March at 11am.

Bookings are essential.

SENIORS EXPO YOU ARE INVITED TO A BIG FREE FUN DAY OUT FOR SENIORS Port Macquarie-Hastings Council is proud to invite you to the inaugural Seniors Lifestyle Expo as part of NSW Seniors Week.

There are over 70 Healthy, Wealthy, Wise and Travel stalls, 25 workshops and live performances.

Explore the possibilities and find out what’s available in your community.

When: Monday 18 March 2013 Time: 9.30am to 4pm Where: Port Macquarie Panthers (next to Settlement City)

Cost:

Free For more information visit

www.pmhc.nsw.gov.au or telephone (02) 6581 8111

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Sttart living at Crystal Waters Estate You are invited to start living at Crystal Waters Estate … Nestled in the beautiful Great Lakes district, Crystal Waters Estate is a peaceful and secure lifestyle village for the young at heart, providing an affordable and unique option for over 50s living. here are many different reasons why people choose to live in our lifestyle village. For some of our residents, it was the desire to enjoy a sea-change to Forster-Tuncurry, for others it’s a housing option, which allows them to buy an affordable, low maintenance home after down-sizing from their traditional family home which was either too big for their current needs or too difficult to maintain. For many others it’s a retirement option which is considerably cheaper than local retirement village or strata title equivalents.

One of the reasons that a home at Crystal Waters Estate is so affordable is that the ownership of the land and home are separate. Although you will own your home, you will not own the land.

Residents of Crystal Waters Estate enter into a residential site agreement and pay a weekly site rent. Centrelink may offer assistance with site rent to those who are receiving an income support payment from Centrelink. Rental assistance generally comes in the form of direct payments to eligible persons by Centrelink and acts as an effective subsidy of the site rent payable to Crystal Waters each fortnight. The residential site

agreement gives an exclusive right to occupy the land and to use and enjoy Crystal Waters Estate’s facilities and services during the term of the agreement.

There are many benefits that arise from not owning the land on which your home is situated.

Most notably you have no liability to pay stamp duty, local council rates or state taxes which might otherwise have been payable if you were a landowner.

There are also those that choose a home in our lifestyle village for the lifestyle benefits. Crystal Waters is a safe, caring community and include a range of facilities and amenities that are provided for the enjoyment of all our residents. Facilities, that are free to enjoy include: tennis court, bowls greens, swimming pool and giant outdoor chess set and modern stainless steel barbecues. Crystal Waters Boast a beautiful Community Centre which is the perfect entertainment venue for all our residents and provides a perfect home for our active social club. The Community Centre is complete with a large screen TV with Foxtel, a quite library complete with computer and internet, a warm fireplace, a popular bar, snooker table, darts, indoor carpet bowls and lots more indoor games. At Crystal Waters Estate we

understand how important it is to feel safe and secure in your living environment.

You will have peace of mind knowing that access to the village is via a security gated entrance. The gate can be activated from mobile or home phones at no cost to the resident. This allows residents to grant entry to the village to their friends, family and tradespeople from the comfort of their home or if using a mobile from anywhere in the country. This is a very popular facility. We offer a huge variety of designs and styles of custom built 1, 2 and 3 bedroom contemporary homes.

You can choose from a variety of popular floor plans and finishes or create a whole new look that suits your own taste and lifestyle. All new homes come complete with floor and window coverings, rainwaters tanks, driveways, screened carports and low maintenance landscaped gardens. New residents also have the option

of purchasing one of our pre-loved homes that come on the market from time.

AND… we are pet friendly. We, at Crystal Waters, recognize the important role pets play in the lives of many people. The benefits of pets appear widely accepted and are thought to include companionship, relaxation, increased socialization among people, the ability to combat loneliness, increased feelings of security, and provision of a source of unconditional love and concentrated affection.

The physical activities involved in caring for an animal (eg walking, grooming) can also help their owners own physical well being through exercise.

Come and visit with our friendly staff, and take a tour of this month’s featured home and the amazing facilities at Crystal Waters Estate. Please call Lynne at Crystal Waters Estate on (02) 6554 7447.

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Robyn Butler.

was of two minds whether to tell this story or not, as I always seem to be talking about myself, family or friends. Look ... I believe in making people smile when you can, so here goes!

My husband and I were travelling to Beechwood for a function, when driving down the hill, coming into the main drag to Wauchope, I looked down and realised my top was on back to front and inside out. Well, as you can imagine, I just couldn’t half lift it and turn it around; I had to take it completely off and turn it around … thinking no one would see me in the car … WRONG! The car in front went completely off the road into the gravel and when I commented

to my husband, he said that was nothing; the car behind us nearly ran into the back of us … driving with me is a health hazard.

Let me tell you, the sunnies went on quick smart, but I still reckon it was my Elle McPherson bra that did the damage. On a serious note, don’t do this, as you could cause a serious accident, but I have to admit at the time it looked funny and my apologies to the drivers involved if I have scarred you for life!

HONEY AND CINNAMON ... music to the body!

As most of you know, honey is the only food on this planet that doesn’t spoil or rot.

It does crystallize, but is always honey in its truest form. I read a very interesting article that said you should never boil honey or put it in a

microwave, as it kills the enzymes. My nanna swore by honey and was very rarely sick and thinking back, I remember her using quite a bit of cinnamon. In the same article, I read that if you make a paste of honey and cinnamon and apply it to your bread or toast each day, it reduces cholesterol in the arteries and saves people from heart attacks. A 94 year old lady I know lives by herself, and each morning she has a honey and cinnamon drink before breakfast and says it wards off colds, arthritis, and keeps her body healthy. Worth a try, and two good things about honey; it’s good for you and has no side effects!

GARBAGE BAGS FOR PEELING SCRAPES Several people have asked me where they can obtain a replacement roll of biodegradable bags to put in their compost kitchen bin/ basket (Council supplied). Another tick to the Council, as they will deliver to your door, free of charge. To receive the free bin/basket and roll of bags, you must have paid the Garbage Levee to the Council (usually on your rates). If you ring 1300 787 223, the lovely ladies there will organise a drop off. We are privileged to have this recycling item, so only put fruit and veggie scraps in the bin/basket, or it defeats the purpose of the Council’s good intentions.

WANDERING SOULS ... written by STUART HAWLEY Wandering Souls is the remarkable true story of an ordinary man. The author is Stuart Hawley, who many of you know died of cancer in 2011. Stuart is a first time author and non-believer in the spirit world, until he

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experienced contact with a ‘wandering soul’ when he was 57.

This book reveals how his life changed, as his amazing gift continued, bringing him and those around him wonderful messages from those who have passed over to the other side. This is a lovely collection of stories that skeptics, fence sitters and believers alike will enjoy. His daughter and wife (Rhonda, who works at IGA Gordon Street … everybody loves Rhonda) are so proud of the finished product, as it was published after Stuart’s passing. He cherished his gift so greatly, that he needed to share his experiences. Can be ordered at any bookstore or through Amazon Publishing for $29.99.

SNIPPETS 1. Big is Beautiful … so come along to the fashion parade at TS14+ & Virtue Port Macquarie (Horton Street just down from the Commonwealth Bank) on Saturday 2 March 2013 at 1pm for a fashion parade of Autumn Fashions and have a glass of champers and nibbles.

Cheryl and the girls know how to put on a ‘good do’ with class, so come along and enjoy … good specials and lucky door prizes, and it’s FREE! 2. You might not know this, but non living items are also male and female ... here are a few examples.

TYRES: these are male, because they go bald and are over inflated.

SPONGES: these are female, because they are soft, squeezable and retain water!

KEEP SMILING, Robbie x

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focusrealestate Port Macquarie Landcare President resident

U P D AT E

estellegough.

Reconnecting urban people

Back to the Earth

Ask Greg

Greg Trembath answers wers stions. your real estate questions.

Q

“Put your hands in the dirt, and the static goes out of your head!” a gardener once declared. Most Australians live in busy, built-up areas. This means people can lose contact with the natural world, even though it has so much to offer them. n coastal Port Macquarie, we are blessed urban people back to the earth. with beaches and treed gullies, which help Residents can link to these bushland areas refresh our body/mind. Just a glimpse of via their household gardens, which become a a beach, river, or bushland reserve, as we vital part of the natural landscape. dash about the town in our vehicles, is a little Let’s imagine for a moment there are thrill in the daily dance of life. no boundary fences. Imagine being like an Many residents and visitors already take the eagle, high in the sky, able to view the green time to walk or jog along the coastal pathways patches of our town. How connected are these and urban reserves. Others are removing patches? Which jigsaw pieces are missing? the static by getting their hands in Are there wildlife corridors through the dirt. your suburb connecting to the Port Macquarie Landcare adjacent nature reserves?

Group gets its hands dirty Now is the time to When a site in many urban bushland transform our backyard is eventually reserves. It does this in gardens to add another , ‘fully connected’ partnership with Coun‘green jigsaw piece’ to the Landcarers ck ba cil, which is the Land the local landscape.

We it then hand lfse a as l Manager that makes can merge gardens and ci to Coun n decisions about remethe natural environment. maintaining urba ” e. rv se re nd la dial work and priorities As urban gardeners we sh bu in the reserves. can become more ecologiCouncil insists that peocally aware and use our own ple working on its reserves as backyard garden to enhance volunteers should be members of a genetic diversity, wildlife habitat, and Landcare group or equivalent. This ensures water conservation. the volunteers have training, the right Already 80% of Australians live in urban tools and clothing, and insurance cover. areas. As housing and development take over The Landcare group ‘adopts’ an urban more and more land, gardens become much reserve, then a Landcare project manager and more important in the regional ecology. volunteers begin the work of protecting the The contribution of each gardener and their biodiversity of the reserve, which basically garden to the wider environment should be as means clearing invasive weed species to allow rich and positive as each of us can help it to the native trees, plants, and wildlife to thrive. be. The first step is to care for life, and this can When a site is eventually ‘fully connected’, lead to an understanding of the ecosystems the Landcarers then hand it back to Council as within your garden to connect with the world a self-maintaining urban bushland reserve. beyond the boundary.

These urban bushland reserves are like Within your own backyard, you can be a jigsaw pieces, which contribute to the integrity Landcarer too. of the natural landscape. They can reconnect Contributed by Janet Slater.

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As first time home sellers, we other people involved. are feeling quite daunted about Given it’s your first time, you are probably the whole ‘for sale experience’. feeling the pressure to make sound financial Where do we start? What are the most decisions. Selling property is a big financial important things to get right? transaction, so choose an agent who A. The most important step involves choosing appreciates your financial goals. your agent. This is definitely Think about teamwork too. What you something you need to get lack in experience won’t matter if right and consider carefully. together you and your agent Your choice of agent will present your home at its best As first affect your chance for and work well as a team to home sellers, d experience anial a successful sale and get it sold. trust are cruc achieving optimum A skilled agent will lead your es m co when it an price. Choose the right sale smoothly, step by step, ng si oo ch to one, and you’ll soon be to the point where you will agent. looking back at the whole be handing over your keys. experience, wondering why Congratulations: then you will you were feeling daunted in the have sold your first home! first place.

Answers are general comment, and As first home sellers, experience and trust are readers should always seek their own crucial when it comes to choosing an agent. independent professional advice.

Choose one with a wealth of experience, Send your real estate questions to greg@ who knows how to help you in preparing gregtrembath.com.au your home to look its best, can create an Greg Trembath is Principal/Licensee at effective marketing campaign, negotiate the Greg Trembath Real Estate. right selling price and work well with building Licensed Real Estate Agent – Licensed inspectors, solicitors/conveyancers and the Auctioneer.

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GREATER PORT MACQUARIE

property guide

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TG’s CHILD CARE

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TG’s Child Care Centre t W Wauchope h iis sett tto open soon and d will ill off ffer a state of the art facility providing a constructive play experience for children aged from 0 - 5 years. Chrissy Jones had a closer look and caught up with a very busy Centre Owner, Gayle Kee ...

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“ Our team will

larly actively and regu al engage in person and professional further development to ledge expand their know and skills. ”

ell us what the new TG’s Child Care Centre offers ...

We are a family owned and operated Preschool and Long Day Care service licensed with 48 places, catering for children 0 to 5 years. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 6.30am to 6.30pm, 52 weeks per year.

Where can we find you and who do you cater for?

We are conveniently located close to local schools and the CBD. TG’s Child Care Wauchope is a family owned and operated Preschool and Long Day Care Centre catering to the need of families in Wauchope and surrounding districts.

With hours to suit the modern family, and operating all year round, we provide quality, professional child care services, aiming to assist the parents and children in Wauchope to make life as easy as pos-

sible to raise a family. We provide healthy meals, hats for children, sunscreen, nappies and smiles, all in a fun-filled and caring environment.

You have a great team of Child Care Educators ...

We do; our team of qualified and dedicated educators love their work, and they are highly experienced. Our team will actively and regularly engage in personal and professional development to further expand their knowledge and skills.

Our educators all believe it is a privilege to be able to assist local families in the care and education of their children. They will be actively engaged with children, developing positive relationships, contributing to the children’s belonging, being and becoming. continued over

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TG’s CHILD CARE

What are some programs and activities you will be offering?

We will be implementing the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) as the basis for our Programs. Our daily curriculum will incorporate the principles and practises drawn from the EYLF, and our educators will carefully plan their programs to include the children’s current interests, needs, skills and abilities.

Literacy and numeracy activities are part of the everyday routine and involve the children recognising their own names, writing their names on artwork, listening to stories and poems, ok evor lo “ Gayle and Tr counting the number of children prescing forward to introdu ent each day, playing number games, staff. and playing music and singing songs their new team of Early that involve active participation.

Gayle is a qualified r, with Our Preschool Program includes Childhood Teache perience ex a school readiness program for the s’ ar ye 26 er ov -based ity children to further assist them as they un m m co th in bo transition to school and also gives the Private Preschools and in them the social, emotional maturity and ” . ry st du Child Care In confidence to be able to cope with the everyday demands and to encourage a life time love of learning.

The new facility has a wonderful layout. Tell us more ...

TG’s Child Care is a carefully designed and presented environment, with lots of natural materials and play spaces providing experiences to allow children to explore, experiment and discover. Our well-organised environment is welcoming, consistent and predictable, providing a sense of place and purpose for young, active children.

It is vibrant and flexible and allows for children’s changing

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needs, interests and abilities. It invites exploration, interactions, safe risk-taking, discovery, connections to nature, conversations and communication, and lots of fun play.

TG’s Child Care Wauchope is a friendly, nurturing and educational environment and a fun place to be! We aim to provide a safe, happy, warm and caring atmosphere and a family-friendly environment, embracing and celebrating cultural diversity, where children and their families, irrespective of culture, race and circumstances, feel welcome at all times.

Your philosophy behind your curriculum is young children learn best by doing. Tell us how you encourage this.

Learning isn’t just repeating or copying someone; it requires active thinking and experimenting to find out how things work and to learn first hand about the world we live in.

Our belief is that while children are at our Centre, they have the right to feel safe, secure, valued, respected, cared for, happy, encouraged and reassured. Our environment is rich in love, care and respect. We listen to and include children’s voices within our program.

Families play an important and valued role in the operation of our centre and are encouraged to participate in whichever capacity they choose. Good communication is a sound basis for a positive, caring environment, and our educators value the ability to liaise with and share information with parents/carers and encourage family and community input.

I would like to thank Paul Dawson at Hydro Photographics for his photography and setting up our website with an amazing interactive tour available for families to view online. Check them out at www.tgschildcare.com.au

TG’s CHILD CARE

DM constructions has had TG’s Child hild Care as a client for over 5 years now, working together on the construction of new childcare centres in NSW. During this time the two companies have forged a partnership that many would envy when undertaking the project of constructing a high quality childcare facility.

Nothing is ever missed when the two companies combine their expertise. As you approach any of the centres, it is evident that Trevor is a fully qualified landscaper with an eye for design and finish. Trevor’s eye for finish is more than likely one of the major reasons he and Gayle have chosen BDM Constructions to carry out the construction work on their projects.

Brad Maggs from BDM constructions said that: “Working with true professionals like Trevor and Gayle makes coming to er “ Nothing is ev work a pleasure.

“TG’s Child Care are a leader in missed when the es ni their industry, and we here at BDM pa m co o tw Constructions embrace the fact that r ei th combine our business can grow stronger from expertise.” involvement with like companies.”

Over the years, BDM have developed and maintained relationships to become the preferred builder for many clients, architects and consultancies, both large and small.

BDM prides itself on repeat business from meeting and exceeding expectations of customers and

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are always happy to provide referen references attesting to the work they have done. BDM will bring a professional approach, along with its wealth of industry knowledge, to make your next project a success.

BDM Constructions are a unique construction company and have built a solid and profound reputation as the preferred builders for local primary and high schools. They have recently worked on the refurbishment of Westport High School’s two science labs, as well as Charles Sturt University’s office and lecture room fit outs. BDM have been awarded 7 units locally to build for the NSW Housing Department and have many more major projects lined up.

BDM Constructions Shop Fitting Division has been a major part of the company’s growth, co-existing with our other areas of expertise: commercial, concreting and residential construction. Whether it’s a refurbishment to an existing building or a full design and construction of a new facility, we have the capacity to control the entire construction process.

Driven by its determination to be close to its clients, BDM draws strength from the highly diverse backgrounds and education of its workforce.

BDM strives to attract, develop and retain talent, in order to be able to fill the majority of positions internally, up to the highest levels of management.

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TG’s CHILD CARE

T G ’s C H IL

D CAFE

Our staff have been carefully selected according to qualifications, experience and personal qualities.

JANETTE SQUIRE

LAURA MOWLE

Kimberley Beckwith QUALIFICATION: Diploma in

QUALIFICATION:

Children’s Services

Certificate III in Children’s Services

I was born and raised in Wauchope and am proud to call it home with my husband, Jonathan, and my 2 children, Andie (4) and Jaiden (almost 2).

We enjoy putting our boat on the river and wake-boarding and wakesur< ng on weekends.

My other interests are riding motorbikes, 4wdriving, exploring and travelling the local area, Australia and other countries around the world.

I also enjoying cooking, sewing and curling up with a good book.

I am excited to be joining the TG< s team. I am a Diploma trained Childcare Professional with 9½ years< experience in the industry.

Kimberley’s Philosophy < Children are unique individuals, each with their own personalities, talents and capabilities. These qualities need to be nurtured so the children can grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically and socially valuing themselves and

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others. < I believe children should be offered a safe, stimulating, caring and healthy environment that caters to the individual needs of the children. Children need the assurance of being loved and cared for while they are enjoying an educational environment. Security and trust are very important components of the relationship with each child. < Children learn best through play based experiences. I encourage children to be involved, hands on learners by providing experiences based on their interests, enabling them to develop their capabilities, building on their needs and challenging their strengths. < I believe in supporting families in their parenting role and encouraging them to be active participants in their child< s education. I believe this is a vital part in their child< s development. I respect all families with fairness and equity. < Teaching children is my passion!

I have worked for many years in the hospitality industry, and for the past 13 years in the child care profession. My interests include < shing; I have been called a < < shaholic< . I enjoy cooking, gardening and camping and also family time. I am married with 3 children, and am nanna to 6 beautiful grandchildren < whom I love to spend time with and spoil.

Janette’s Philosophy < I believe that each child deserves to feel safe, happy, supported, respected and valued. All families should feel con< dent that their children are receiving the best care possible, regardless of race, culture and belief, or family situations. < I believe in encouraging and promoting an inclusive, fun, learning environment and am aware that all children learn at different rates.

As educators, we need to provide the experiences to cater for different children and their development. < To support children< s development, it is vital to provide a stimulating, safe environment that encourages safe, positive risk taking behaviour.

QUALIFICATION: Diploma in Children’s Services I grew up in Armidale, and this has allowed me to develop some great friendships and study early childhood, which I am very passionate about. I have been working at TG< s Child Care in Armidale for the past 2½ years < a wonderful, positive working environment, where I am able to learn new skills every day and be part of the lives of young children and their families.

I am excited about moving to the Mid North Coast and working as part of the new team in Wauchope and am also looking forward to being able to go to the beach, keep up my < tness by sur< ng, going to the gym and joining some local sporting groups. I also plan to continue my studies < aiming to study my Bachelor of Education.

Laura’s Philosophy < I believe that play provides opportunities for children to learn as they discover, create, improvise and imagine. < Educators need to take into account all children< s social, cultural and linguistic diversity in the curriculum and program decision making process. < I believe each child should feel a sense of belonging, feel safe and secure in their environment and have extensive opportunities to grow and gain develp opment in all areas.

TG’s CHILD CARE

CASSIE COOPER QUALIFICATION: Certificate III in Child Care I grew up in Uralla. Growing up in a small country town has had a big influence on my beliefs and philosophy.

Coming from a community that is so tight knit has shown me that everyone is unique, but it’s our unique qualities that tie us together and make the bigger picture in life work.

Throughout my teenage years, I was a strong self-taught swimmer, competing through the school and making it to state competition for many different swimming strokes. As my career started to take off and so did my study, I had to spend less time in the water and more time behind the books. I hope to get back into swimming for fun soon.

After leaving school, I completed a traineeship in hospitality and worked in the industry for a few years, before coming to work with Trevor and Gayle at TG’s Child Care in Uralla and Armidale. I have been with them for over 2 years and am looking forward

to transferring the skills I have learnt to the new Wauchope centre.

Moving to the coast is something I am really looking forward to, having lived on a northern tableland property for most of my life. Once settled in, I would also like to continue my studies in early childhood.

Cassie’s Philosophy My role as an educator is to assist in the productive play and learning experiences of the children that are involved with in our centre.

I believe ...

• Children are busy – learning is happening all the time throughout their play.

• Children should be given choices, opportunities and responsibilities to initiate their own learning. Each child is an individual and distinctive – with different interests, backgrounds and developmental stages.

• A well supported environment should include play opportunities that enhance children’s interests and engage them with opportunity to explore.

• Families play a major role in the development and learning stages of their children, and teamwork and communication between family and centre is important to help build relationships, routines and understandings of developmental milestones and shared experiences.

GOAL – to make this ongoing learning experience for both the children and myself safe, positive, fun, nurturing and to offer, and also accept, guidance when needed.

T G ’s C H IL

FAYE o’NEILL

D C A FE

Kiara Ross

QUALIFICATION: Diploma in Children’s Services

QUALIFICATION: Certificate III in Children’s Services.

Basically, I have been in childcare for about 10 years. I work at the Long Flat Preschool two days per week. I am married, with three children aged 12, 10 and 6. I love all sports and play netball, tennis and touch football locally. I also help umpire whenever I can.

I love watching my children play sport and getting involved supporting them.

I love reading books and spending time with my family and animals on our farm. I am looking forward to working with Gayle and her team at the new TG’s Child Care in Wauchope.

Faye’s Philosophy • I believe children learn through play. Both uninterrupted and educator directed play are vitally important to a child’s development.

• A child’s family are their rock. It is through open and consistent quality communications between a child’s parent/guardian and their carers that enables them to reach their full potential.

• I believe I am a fun person who loves children, and the sense of joy and wonderment they bring to each day is to be cherished.

I was born and raised in Armidale. After high school, I graduated from a Graphic Design course at uni in Sydney, which allowed me to explore my interests in design and photography. I returned home to Armidale in 2011 and was welcomed into the team at TG’s Child Care – where I have made some lovely friendships with co-workers and children and families. I am also able to utilise many of the skills I gained in my course in graphic design within the centre.

I completed a traineeship with TG’s Child Care and now have my Certificate III in Children’s Services. I enjoy spending time with friends, being outdoors, especially the beach, and I love being creative with art, design and photography. I am looking forward to a sea change and working as part of the team at the new TG’s Child Care Wauchope.

Kiara’s Philosophy • Early learning education encourages each child to develop to their maximum ability emotionally, physically and socially.

Each child is born with their own gifts to give. It is our role as an educator to inspire and motivate whilst encouraging every child’s desire to learn.

• I believe it is important for children to be active in their learning, by providing experiences that are calm, new and challenging. It is important to encourage a positive and open partnership between the centre and the home, where educators and parents/guardians work together to ensure each child’s needs are being catered for.

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focus_Real Estate.

Swift sales for

premium returns

“When considering swift sales for premium returns, McGrath Estate Agents almost automatically comes to mind.”

here is absolutely no doubt that there is a growing demand for quality real estate in Port Macquarie. Once again, values are edging upwards in most areas of Australia, and our beautiful region is at the forefront of this resurgence.

The NSW Mid North Coast may not yet be in the peak of a boom, but it is certainly being recognised as a very desirable place to live.

Homes are selling more swiftly and good prices are already being achieved, as buyers move to beat the inevitable increases.

When considering swift sales for premium returns, McGrath Estate Agents almost automatically comes to mind, so an invitation to stop by at a celebratory agent/client gettogether was an offer simply too good to refuse.

Richard and his wife, Robyn, are graziers, with cattle properties on the Ellenborough River and at Yarrowitch. A couple of months ago, they made the (somewhat sad) decision to part with their prized beachside apartment in the iconic Heritage building, in Port Macquarie’s CBD: a delightful two bedroom home, abutting parklands, with unbeatable views across Town Beach and the breakwater.

Richard and Robyn had enjoyed the apartment as a much welcomed getaway over the past five years but, in recent times, business demands had prevented them from leaving the land.

Hard working, honest country people, they

T

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both call a spade a spade and respect straight thought that it was absolutely imperative for us talkers, rather than fast talkers. to really like the people who we were trusting Robyn comments, “We did have some to sell our beloved abode.” reservations about approaching the whole “It was all about strong ethics and good selling experience, so we spoke with a friend communication,” adds Richard. “Not only did who lives in Port Macquarie. She simply told us we need to be kept informed, but we wanted that it was McGrath who seemed to be getting to have confidence that the information was the ‘Sold’ signs to happen quickly.” honest and accurate. With Todd and Keith, we “After speaking with McGrath, Todd had just that.”

Bates and Keith Olsen came to All parties agreed upon a short, sharp appraise our apartment, and campaign, designed and implemented we instantly liked their

by Todd and Keith, of McGrath. friendly but professional Both Richard and Robyn were approach,” says impressed by the careful After speaking , th Richard. “They were attention-to-detail, the ra cG M ith w ith Ke d open, honest and scale of the marketing an s te Ba Todd praise ap to e m entirely believable.” and by the clear and ca en ls O and we Robyn admits consistent communication our apartment, eir instantly liked th sional that she was which they regularly es friendly but prof e initially sceptical received, on time, every er w ey approach; th y el about McGrath’s time. d entir open, honest an recommendation to “After every inspection, ” e. bl believa take the property to we received detailed auction, rather than to feedback,” says Robyn. “The use private treaty, but Richard communication was excellent and we immediately drew a familiar comparison were never left wondering what’s happening. with livestock markets and he fully understood I really couldn’t believe that, after only 35 days the principle of a transparent event, which from listing our apartment, it was sold!” allows the buyer to set the market.

As a sincere testimony to Todd, Keith and to “At the time, we did understand that our the whole team at McGrath, both Robyn and apartment was quite unique; it has a sort of Richard are enthusiastic when they compliment art deco styling, and we feel that it enjoys the outstanding professionalism that guided what is arguably the best position in town,” their entire selling experience. says Robyn, “so we felt that it deserved to be “McGrath Port Macquarie is by far the marketed in the best way possible. We also best real estate agent we’ve ever known,”

“

concludes Robyn. “They were totally reliable but, even more important than that, they were sensitive to the fact that we were selling something that was very special to us personally, and they fully respected our emotional concerns. I can only say that, if ever we buy or sell again, we will be calling on them. To put it simply; we really liked them!”

Standing on the terrace of the apartment, watching the boats navigate their way into the harbour and the surf washing quietly against the shores, it is very satisfying to witness Todd Bates and Keith Olsen, as they enjoy a special moment with their new friends. Perhaps they are flattered by the kind words, but they take them with humility and chat about the future – happy to be invited to share in the occasion.

Todd and Keith are genuinely delighted that they were granted the opportunity to assist Richard and Robyn. Of course, they are totally confident that McGrath’s unique marketing processes will always produce great results. After all, as a result of their ongoing success story, when considering swift sales for premium returns, McGrath Estate Agents almost automatically comes to mind.

Roger Bates is a freelance copywriter.

McGrath Estate Agents 147 Gordon Street Port Macquarie T 6589 3777 mcgrath.com.au

Repairs & Replacements Your Heading Here! - not a problem

March Madness “Fabulous, wonderful – oh, this is just what we have been wanting. Why did we wait so long?”

That’s the cry we hear from our very happy clients now that they have daytime privacy, plus heat and glare reduction from our window tinting applications. 99% UV is rejected, so your home and car is protected.

It may be March, but the heat is not yet over and the glare stays even when it is raining.

Some of our window films allow you to look out without being seen by those outside, so there is no need to draw your home’s curtains in the daytime for privacy.

With the right film your room will not darken, so there is no need to put the lights on - saving you money. **AWESOME NEWS** We have moved. You can now find us at 3/26 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie.

Call us for your FREE MEASURE & QUOTE TODAY!

With over 30 years’ experience in the jetty industry, local company Tidemaster Jetties will design and build a top quality jetty or floating pontoon just right for you. If you have an existing jetty or pontoon that is in need of a little TLC, Tidemaster also offers all forms of on-site repair, and replacement parts are not a problem. Jetties and pontoons need regular maintenance and should be checked frequently to ensure safety to all users. Tidemaster can do this for you, give them a call today and have them take a look.

In the Port Macquarie area alone, Tidemaster has installed over 90% of the existing jetties in canal developments and rivers.

Jetties need regular maintenance - like a car. Every 12 months they need a yearly service - to check and replace parts that may have wear and tear e.g. rollers, fender rubber. This will make sure that when things like floods occur, the jetty is able to cope with the extra water pressure and height of the water.

The highly skilled team offers advice and professional service from first contact, right through to the finished jetty. The jetties are built in the local factory and then transported to your site. Council approval is hassle free, with full engineer’s specifications included.

Offering flexibility in design and construction, the most popular product is the floating aluminium pontoon; constructed from Marine Grade Aluminium, it is guaranteed rust free and comes fitted with durable polypropolene floats and with your choice of either all-weather carpet or a timber deck.

Phone Stephen on 0415 778 073 to obtain a quote for your new jetty or floating pontoon today! Or check out our website @ www.tidemasterjetties.com

greater port macquarie focus 115

Your Heading Here!

Value + Real Estate

David Suters Timbercraftsman

Value + is the newest real estate agency in Port Macquarie for real value and service.

Transforming freeform slabs of timber into creative unique artistic pieces of furniture is David’s passion.

How much commission should you pay your real estate agent? We think many sellers are paying too much. We may be the newest real estate agency in Port Macquarie, but we have started our new venture on the belief that honesty, hard work and good old fashioned VALUE for money grows a successful business.

Producing distinctive pieces has evolved David’s design skills over the past 27 years. Imagination and artistic insight empower David to introduce other mediums into ‘one-of-akind’ products.

The two founding partners of VALUE PLUS REALTY have lived in the Port Macquarie area for a long time. So, doing the right thing by vendors makes sense to us when it comes to charging a fair rate for a fair day’s work.

We know how powerful word-of-mouth is in a community, and we want our happy sellers to be our biggest advocates.

This year we have sold 5 properties and charged each vendor our standard 1.5% commission on sale price.

Talk to us about listing your property for sale or rent, and you’ll discover we add even more VALUE than just a low commission rate.

Contact us, and let’s talk. You have nothing to lose and once you compare our listing proposal, you’ll discover you have much to gain.

Markets cater to creating careers After an exciting and popular event last year, the organisers of the Mid Coast Careers Market are looking forward to building on their success in 2013.

Combining technical expertise with delicate creativity and master craftsmanship, David designs and meticulously handcrafts made-to-order, durable, contemporary pieces nurtured from their earthy beginnings into timeless collectables.

The Mid Coast Careers Market offers students from Years 9 to 12, between Forster and Kempsey, an opportunity to engage with local industry representatives and discover a wide range of career and study choices.

David directly sources sustainably grown Australian native species of timber. When available, salvaged or recycled materials and imported timbers are integrated into freestanding furniture for any room in your home or business.

Michelle Fisher, Event Co-ordinator, said, “Over 900 students attended the event last year, many going home with useful information and more direction in their chosen careers. Others gained insight into what kind of jobs are available locally.”

For commissioned projects, David involves clients from inception to delivery. Partnering with interior designers across NSW, he has also designed and handcrafted functional and attractive pieces that create personalised environments and satisfy individual vision and desire.

Many local businesses, services and educators were present to share their experiences and tips with the students. On the back of last year’s success, North Coast TAFE have already expressed their interest, booking a number of stalls to deliver advice on a wide range of local study options and pathways.

Call David today to arrange an appointment, or look him up at timbercraftsman.com.au to view exclusive designs available.

The event often hosts services such as the Mid North Coast Legal Centre and the Electoral Commission to inform local youth on the rights and obligations of young people. The Hastings Education Fund will also be there to help with study grant applications.

The organisers envisage the event expanding into the Clydesdale room this year, to accommodate more indoor exhibitors. “We are endeavouring to showcase a greater range of local businesses that can deliver interactive information on careers available in their industry,” Michelle said.

The Mid Coast Careers Market will be held at the Port Macquarie Race Club on Tuesday, 28 May from 9am – 2.30pm. Entry and registration to the event are free, and exhibitors receive a complimentary lunch. Anyone wishing to exhibit or acquire further information can contact Michelle Fisher on (02) 6562 5314.

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focusinterview.

Kim Godwin is the face and the focus behind Godwin’s Green Energy in Tuncurry. A passionate advocate for harnessing the free energy provided by the sun, Kim sees solar energy as the ultimate way to combat rising electricity costs im, you’ve been in business for markedly, so going solar does make financial around 20 years now and have sense. owned three electrical shops during We have two main drivers in the world − food this time. What was the original and water, and to get these, we need energy. It goal behind establishing Godwin’s Green seems logical to assume that if the energy we Energy? need to provide these drivers is free, then everyI have a mission – I see solar energy as the way one should convert. of the future. It’s new technology that’s continually What are some of the main solar powered evolving, and for people to survive – particularly products that people can source these days? those on fixed incomes – they need to realise that Solar hot water heaters, solar panels to harvest once they have a solar system, the energy they’re energy to power homes and businesses, and using is free. It’s similar to buying a car and then there is a new array of products now becoming never having to pay for petrol. available, including LED lighting – which basically So many places in the world are taking halves the cost of powering the light source. advantage of solar power – and so should we.

Another new technology is Future Wave energy Our industries should have solar power to help systems, which are devices that decrease the make them more competitive and reduce their amount of power that pool filtrations systems use. overheads – it’s simply great new technology that What are some of the big changes that have needs to be put to better use. taken place within the Australian solar indusAdd this to the benefit of relying less on fostry in recent years? sil fuel resources, and it simply makes There have been some wonderful sense. new technologies developed.

Some people may believe Some of these innovations People are that converting to solar include mini inverters generally aware energy is a complicated and optimisers made by electricity that the cost of process. Typically, Tigo. What these do is t bu dly, is increasing rapi that what are some of the maximise the harvesting e may not be awar stems perceived obstacles of energy by your solar sy r the cost of sola people see? system. There can be ng si ea cr de is actually ing go There is a belief that a lot of influences that so y, dl ke ar quite m ancial fin e it’s not as financially viable negatively impact on the ak m es do solar to convert to solar now, output of the system, in” e. ns se as government rebates have cluding things such as shade. decreased. However, rebates are In the past, a solar system’s still available. poorest performing panel would have We can undertake a complete audit of a negative impact on the other panels, so someone’s home or business to assess what the overall productivity of the system would be system would work best in each situation, compromised. and this audit comes with no obligation. We can The other advantage with these optimisers is also explain the existing government rebates in a that if an older panel needs to be replaced, and straightforward way, removing the confusion. it’s a different size or has a different output to the I honestly believe it’s not so much a matter new panels, it won’t affect the overall system’s of ‘if’ we need to go solar, but ‘when’. People output. The technology is changing so rapidly are generally aware that the cost of electricity is these days, if you have an older system and you increasing rapidly, but may not be aware that the break a panel, or a panel stops performing for cost of solar systems is actually decreasing quite some reason, it’s highly unlikely you’ll be able to

K

“

118 greater port macquarie focus.

replace it with exactly the same product. In the past, you’d have to try to match it as closely as possible electrically, but it would still be detrimental to the productivity of the system as a whole.

Tigo optimisation ensures that whatever type of panel you use as a replacement will work happily with the existing panels, at their maximum capacity.

Do you believe the technology is actually becoming simpler?

Yes. There was another product before these new Tigo systems that basically achieved the same aims, but was electrically a lot more complicated.

These new systems have far less components and achieve their results with amazing simplicity. It’s simply stunning technology – if you were to take two brand new, identical solar systems and install one with the Tigo technology, you’d achieve a 3.5 per cent minimum gain. Imagine the difference with older systems, which have panels that degrade at different rates and ultimately underperform.

And what about the safety aspects associated with this new technology? Have they improved?

Definitely. Take LED lights, for example. If you break a globe, there are no nasty chemicals or hazardous materials contained in the product, and the good quality products are 100 per cent recyclable. Some of the older compact fluorescent globes contained hazardous materials such as mercury, which was dangerous if you broke the globe.

With the new Tigo systems, it is possible to shut down the entire solar system with the push of a button if there is a fault detected, or in the

case of a fire/flood etc. This process can also be accessed remotely via a computer. The systems are also equipped with anti-theft features, including tamper detection and customisable alerts.

What would you like to see actually happen in Australia with future solar power development?

I would like a better feed in tariff from the power companies, because the more solar power that gets connected, the less drain there is on the power stations. Theoretically, power should be getting cheaper - but it’s not.

I’d like to see a subsidy for lower income earners. I believe this is something we should make available – particularly to pensioners. It’s a genuine way for them to save money.

Rising energy usage and rising energy costs will not go away – they’re as inevitable as the sun coming up in the morning.

What’s becoming increasingly popular now is the ability for commercial enterprises to lease or rent solar equipment as well.

If you had to make a prediction about what will happen to the solar industry in the next 5 years, what would it be?

Worldwide, I believe it will keep doubling. I believe solar power will become a necessity – and it will be compulsory when building a new home.

Final words …

It’s very important to get expert advice when considering solar power for your home or business – there are many options available and lots of information to sort through, so seek qualified help.

Thanks Kim. Interview by Jo Atkins.

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greater port macquarie focus 119

no hidden costs.

Imagine your home in Port Macquarie.

Compare our price to other builders to o see tthat there are no es - You’ll be surprised! su hidden costs with G.J. Gardner Homes

Visit Visit us us today. today.

Let us show you how!

15our Ocean Drive, Port Macquarie At Office: 15 Ocean Drive Port Macquarie

We welcome you to try our free New Home Buyers toolkit. Call into G.J. Gardner Homes Port Macquarie and pickk up yours today, it’s obligation free.

Your New Home Buyers toolkit will give you + + +

Clarity and Detail Buyer Confidence House Price Knowledge

Contact us on 6584 5116 or visit gjgardner.com.au/ Photographs may depict fixtures, finishes and features not supplied by G.J. Gardner Homes. These items include landscaping – including planter boxes, retaining walls, water features, pergolas, screens and decorative landscaping items such as fencing and outdoor kitchens and barbecues. Narsza Pty Ltd. BL: 72890C.

Office Hours: Opening Hours: 8.30 - 5pm Monday to Friday 8.30am – 5pm

Or our Display Home at: Or our Display Home at: 6 Currawong Drive, Oxley Park 6 Currawong Drive Oxley Park Opening Hours: times: Opening Thurs: 1 –1 3pm, 1 – 4pm Thursday – 3pm,Fri: Friday 1 – 4pm andSaturday Sat: 12 –12 3pm 4pm and – 4pm